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Experts reveal why dancing is so good for your brain

25. June, 2026

Dancing challenges both the body and the brain at the same time.

According to neuroscientists, a dance class sets a range of processes in motion that can strengthen everything from memory to emotional well-being, Real Simple reports.

Dancing activates the entire brain

Experts describe dancing as an activity in which many different areas of the brain work together simultaneously.

The brain gets to work upon arrival

As soon as you step into the dance studio, the brain begins a series of processes that prepare the body for the activity ahead.

The hippocampus maps the environment

One part of the brain immediately starts registering the surroundings and creating a mental overview of the room.

Dopamine is released before class begins

The anticipation of dancing causes the brain to release dopamine even before the lesson starts.

Mirror neurons strengthen social connection

When you watch other participants move and warm up, mirror neurons become activated, helping create a sense of social connection.

The amygdala assesses safety

The amygdala evaluates whether the environment feels safe and whether you are comfortable being seen by others.

Warm-up gets the body working

Heart rate increases, blood circulation improves, and the brain’s motor regions become more active during the warm-up.

Multiple neurotransmitters are released

Movement, music, and social interaction trigger the release of several neurotransmitters, including dopamine, serotonin, endorphins, and oxytocin.

Choreography challenges the brain

Different parts of the brain work together to learn, remember, and perform the movements involved in dancing.

Repetition makes movements easier

As steps are practiced repeatedly, they gradually become more automatic, freeing up attention for artistic expression.

The brain continues working after class

Even after the lesson has ended, the brain continues processing the experiences and skills that were learned.

Mood can improve

Experts point out that levels of the stress hormone cortisol may decrease after dancing, while mood often improves.

Dancing strengthens both brain and body over time

Regular dancing can improve memory, balance, coordination, rhythm, body awareness, mobility, flexibility, and cardiovascular health over time.

These habits can reduce long-term effects after childhood cancer

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

25. June, 2026

These habits can reduce long-term effects after childhood cancer

More and more children are surviving cancer today, but many of them face an increased risk later in life of cardiovascular disease and other long-term health problems.

Researchers from the University of Gothenburg and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital have investigated which factors have the greatest influence on these challenges.

The results have been published in two international studies in Nature Communications and JACC: CardioOncology and cited by News Cision.

Disease later in life

One of the studies, published in JACC: CardioOncology, included more than 2,300 individuals who had been diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma as children or adolescents.

The researchers found that a lack of physical activity is closely associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.

They also point out that factors such as obesity, smoking, and high alcohol consumption can affect the risk of developing disease later in life.

For this reason, they believe that former cancer patients should receive support in building and maintaining healthy habits.

The results surprised the researchers

In the second study, published in Nature Communications, the researchers followed more than 18,000 childhood cancer survivors for up to 30 years.

The analysis showed that lifestyle factors such as physical activity, body weight, smoking, and alcohol consumption may collectively have as much, or even greater, impact on later health problems than the cancer treatments the patients previously received.

The findings therefore suggest that healthy lifestyle habits may be one of the most important ways to reduce the risk of serious long-term effects following childhood cancer.

Most people eat tomatoes the wrong way – here’s how to get more nutrients from them

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

25. June, 2026

Most people eat tomatoes the wrong way – here’s how to get more nutrients from them

Tomatoes are commonly used in salads, soups, and sauces. They contain potassium, dietary fiber, and vitamin C, among other nutrients.

Fully ripe red tomatoes are particularly rich in lycopene, a natural plant compound with antioxidant properties, according to Terazgotuje.

Lycopene is found only in very small amounts in yellow and green tomatoes. For this reason, red varieties are the primary source of the compound.

How the body absorbs more lycopene

The body absorbs lycopene more easily when tomatoes are chopped, grated, or processed into purée and sauce.

Heat treatment can also increase the absorption of the compound, while the tomatoes’ potassium content remains intact.

Lycopene is fat-soluble. Therefore, Terazgotuje recommends combining tomatoes with a small amount of vegetable oil, such as olive oil.

Nuts, pumpkin seeds, and other foods containing vitamin E may also be beneficial to eat alongside tomatoes.

May benefit heart health

Garlic, onions, and fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids are also mentioned as good foods to combine with tomatoes.

According to Terazgotuje, lycopene has been linked to the protection of blood vessels, lower blood pressure, and reduced oxidation of LDL cholesterol.

A diet rich in tomatoes may be associated with up to a 26 percent lower risk of stroke and a 13 percent lower risk of coronary heart disease, according to Terazgotuje.

Feeling sleepy after lunch? Apple cider vinegar could make a difference

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

25. June, 2026

Feeling sleepy after lunch? Apple cider vinegar could make a difference

Many people experience a drop in energy shortly after lunch.

This is often linked to how the body processes carbohydrates from foods such as pasta, rice, and bread.

When these foods are digested, blood sugar levels rise quickly.

The body responds by releasing insulin, which helps move sugar from the bloodstream into the cells.

If blood sugar then drops rapidly again, it can lead to fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and cravings for sweet snacks.

Researchers investigate a simple solution

Large fluctuations in blood sugar are not just a matter of energy levels.

According to Medium, repeated spikes in blood sugar over time may increase the risk of insulin resistance and, later, type 2 diabetes.

For this reason, researchers are investigating methods that can reduce these spikes.

A product most people already have at home

A meta-analysis cited by Medium shows that regular use of apple cider vinegar may lower fasting blood sugar levels, an important marker of diabetes risk.

The explanation is that acetic acid may slow the breakdown of carbohydrates while also helping the body absorb glucose more efficiently.

The result may be more stable blood sugar levels and fewer energy crashes after meals.

Medium recommends one tablespoon of unfiltered apple cider vinegar mixed with water approximately 10 to 20 minutes before a larger meal.

The subtle symptoms that could be early signs of cancer

Mie Hermansen

25. June, 2026

The subtle symptoms that could be early signs of cancer

Many cancers do not begin with dramatic symptoms. Instead, they can develop quietly, with subtle changes that are easy to dismiss as stress, aging, or everyday health issues. Recognizing persistent changes and seeking medical advice when something feels unusual can play an important role in early detection, reports Futura Sciences.

Ongoing pain deserves attention

Pain that lingers and does not improve with usual treatments may be a sign that something requires further investigation.

Lasting digestive problems should not be ignored

Persistent issues such as diarrhea, constipation, or nausea that continue for an extended period can be worth discussing with a healthcare professional.

Trouble swallowing may signal a problem

Difficulty swallowing that does not improve over time is a symptom that should be evaluated rather than brushed aside.

Unexplained bleeding requires medical assessment

The appearance of blood in urine or stool without an obvious cause should always be taken seriously and checked by a doctor.

Unexpected breathing difficulties can be significant

Shortness of breath that develops without a clear explanation may indicate an underlying health issue that needs attention.

Constant exhaustion is not always harmless

Feeling unusually tired despite getting enough rest can sometimes be one of the body’s early warning signals.

Weight loss without trying should be investigated

A noticeable drop in weight without changes to eating habits or physical activity can be a reason to seek medical advice.

Recurrent night sweats may be worth discussing

Night sweats that occur repeatedly and cannot be explained by environmental factors or illness should not be ignored.

Persistent symptoms matter more than isolated episodes

Many of these symptoms are commonly linked to less serious conditions. What often matters most is when they continue for weeks or gradually become more noticeable.

Some cancers can remain silent for years

Certain cancers, including pancreatic, kidney, and colorectal cancers, may develop with few or no obvious symptoms in their earliest stages.

Screening can identify problems before symptoms appear

Screening programs are designed to detect abnormalities before a person experiences any warning signs, allowing treatment to begin earlier if necessary.

Lifestyle factors can influence cancer risk

Research has linked smoking, excess body weight, alcohol use, physical inactivity, poor dietary habits, and exposure to ultraviolet radiation with a higher risk of developing cancer.

Experts explain how to begin strength training after 40

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

25. June, 2026

Experts explain how to begin strength training after 40

Many people believe that strength training requires a gym membership and advanced equipment, but according to several female trainers over the age of 40, it is possible to achieve significant results with just a few pieces of equipment at home, The Guardian reports.

Dumbbells, resistance bands, or even a backpack filled with books can be used for training.

Resistance bands are highlighted as a particularly practical option because they are inexpensive, easy to store, and suitable for a wide variety of exercises.

Focus on simple exercises

When starting strength training, experts recommend keeping things simple.

Exercises such as squats and deadlifts work multiple muscle groups at the same time and can also improve mobility and cardiovascular fitness.

Beginners do not need to lift heavy weights from the outset.

Bodyweight exercises and lighter versions of classic movements can be an effective way to build strength gradually.

If you experience pain or have limited mobility, exercises can be modified to make them easier to perform.

Strength training becomes more important with age

Good sleep and recovery are also important parts of any training program.

According to the experts, sleep, gentle breathing exercises, and appropriate rest periods can help the body recover after physical activity.

After the age of 40, muscle mass begins to decline gradually, and the loss becomes even more pronounced after the age of 50.

For this reason, experts recommend strength training as an important way to maintain strength and overall health.

According to researchers cited by The Guardian, regular strength training may help reduce the risk of conditions including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.

Too much fruit juice in childhood may raise blood pressure risk

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

25. June, 2026

Too much fruit juice in childhood may raise blood pressure risk

Researchers analyzed data from nearly 25,800 participants in the American Growing Up Today Study and published their findings in Circulation.

The participants were followed for up to 25 years and regularly answered questions about their diet and drinking habits.

The aim was to investigate whether what children drink can affect their health as adults, according to HealthDay.

Fruit makes a difference

The study found that whole fruit may be a better choice than both fruit juice and sugary beverages.

The researchers found that the risk of developing high blood pressure later in life was lower among children who replaced one daily sugary drink with a piece of fruit.

The same effect was observed when fruit juice was replaced with whole fruit.

According to the researchers, one possible explanation is that the fiber and pulp in whole fruits cause sugar to be absorbed more slowly by the body.

The link became clear in the results

Children who drank at least 350 milliliters of fruit juice per day had a 35 percent higher risk of developing high blood pressure as young adults.

Among children who drank at least 700 milliliters of soda or sports drinks daily, the risk was 52 percent higher.

The researchers emphasized that the results could not be explained by other factors such as exercise or the overall quality of the participants’ diets.

The study therefore suggests that a high intake of both fruit juice and sugary beverages during childhood may be associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure later in life.

New sunscreen could protect against more than the sun

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

25. June, 2026

New sunscreen could protect against more than the sun

Sunscreen has long been an important safeguard against damage caused by ultraviolet radiation, and researchers are working to make these products even better.

According to National Geographic, scientists are developing solutions designed to protect the skin from air pollution and other environmental factors.

Research is also being conducted on products that can support the skin’s natural balance and help keep it healthy for longer.

Different regulations affect development

The development of new sunscreens is not progressing at the same pace everywhere in the world.

In the United States, fewer UV filters are approved than in places such as South Korea and the European Union, making it more difficult to adopt new technologies, National Geographic reports.

At the same time, researchers continue to discuss how some ingredients affect the body.

However, several dermatologists believe that the benefits of using sunscreen still outweigh the potential risks.

South Korea leads the way

South Korea has become known for lightweight sunscreens that absorb quickly into the skin while also containing skincare ingredients.

But researchers’ ambitions do not stop there.

At the company Kolmar, work is underway on sunscreens for the scalp as well as new technologies that can deflect UV rays more effectively.

In the longer term, the company hopes to develop personalized sunscreens that take factors such as skin type, lifestyle, and environment into account.

If these plans succeed, the sunscreen of the future could evolve from an ordinary sun-care product into a comprehensive solution that protects the skin from a wider range of environmental influences.

How bananas can affect your liver if you eat them regularly

Mie Hermansen

25. June, 2026

How bananas can affect your liver if you eat them regularly

Bananas contain fiber, potassium and antioxidants, all of which have been linked to various health benefits. According to research and a liver specialist, the fruit can be part of a diet that supports liver health, although overall eating habits remain the most important factor, reports Parade.

One in four Americans has MASLD

Around 25% of people in the United States are living with metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease, or MASLD, a condition previously known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

Diet quality plays a major role

According to gastroenterologist and hepatologist Dr. Qin Rao, overall dietary habits play an important role in liver health and the risk of liver disease.

Fruits and vegetables are linked to lower risk

A 2024 analysis found that a higher intake of fruits and vegetables was associated with a lower risk of MASLD.

Research findings are not entirely consistent

A 2022 study found that participants with MASLD who consumed at least four servings of fruit per day had a higher BMI after six months than those who ate less fruit.

Fiber may benefit the liver

Dr. Rao explains that fiber can support liver health by improving blood sugar control, helping maintain a healthy weight and reducing fat accumulation in the liver.

Studies point to benefits of higher fiber intake

Research published in 2023 found an association between higher fiber consumption and a lower risk of MASLD.

The gut and liver are closely connected

Blood from the intestines flows directly to the liver, meaning that conditions in the gut can influence liver function and overall liver health.

Bananas may support beneficial gut bacteria

The fiber found in bananas can help nourish beneficial bacteria in the gut, which Dr. Rao says may indirectly benefit the liver.

Potassium may also play a role

Bananas are a well known source of potassium. According to Dr. Rao, some studies have linked higher potassium intake with a lower risk of fatty liver disease and liver scarring.

Antioxidants help protect the body’s cells

Bananas contain antioxidants that help protect against oxidative stress, a process associated with inflammation and liver damage.

Natural sugar is different from added sugar

Although bananas contain natural sugars, Dr. Rao emphasizes that the fruit also provides fiber, vitamins and antioxidants that influence how sugar is absorbed by the body.

Overall dietary patterns matter most

According to Dr. Rao, bananas can be part of a liver friendly diet, but they cannot offset a diet high in sugary drinks, alcohol and heavily processed foods.

Experts warn extreme heat can make these common health conditions worse

Mie Hermansen

25. June, 2026

Experts warn extreme heat can make these common health conditions worse

A hot summer day can leave anyone feeling drained. The lack of energy, difficulty sleeping and constant search for shade are experiences many people know well.

But for millions of people living with chronic health conditions, extreme heat may pose challenges that go far beyond simple discomfort.

According to health experts cited by organizations including the Cleveland Clinic, Cedars-Sinai, the American Migraine Foundation and the World Health Organization (WHO), prolonged exposure to high temperatures can place additional pressure on the body and increase the risk of complications for certain medical conditions, reports Unilad.

When the body works harder

During periods of intense heat, the body must work harder to regulate its temperature. Blood vessels widen, sweating increases and the cardiovascular system takes on extra demands to prevent overheating.

For some individuals, this added strain can affect heart health. Elevated temperatures may contribute to changes in heart rate and blood pressure, particularly among those who already have underlying cardiovascular issues.

Four conditions to watch

Medical experts say these health problems may become more difficult to manage during heatwaves:

Heart conditions
Kidney stones
Gout
Migraines and recurring headaches

Dehydration is a common factor linking many of these conditions. When the body loses fluids faster than they are replaced, urine becomes more concentrated, increasing the likelihood of kidney stone formation.

Fluid loss can also contribute to gout flare-ups and trigger headaches in susceptible individuals.

Staying safe in hot weather

The WHO recommends limiting outdoor activity during the hottest hours of the day, seeking cool environments whenever possible and paying close attention to hydration.

Experts also advise keeping living spaces cool by reducing direct sunlight indoors and improving airflow during cooler evening hours.

As temperatures continue to climb across parts of the United States and other regions worldwide, health professionals say understanding how heat affects the body could help people reduce risks and avoid preventable medical problems.

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Dancing activates the entire brain

The brain gets to work upon arrival

The hippocampus maps the environment

Dopamine is released before class begins

Mirror neurons strengthen social connection

The amygdala assesses safety

Warm-up gets the body working

Multiple neurotransmitters are released

Choreography challenges the brain

Repetition makes movements easier

The brain continues working after class

Mood can improve

Dancing strengthens both brain and body over time

Disease later in life

The results surprised the researchers

How the body absorbs more lycopene

May benefit heart health

Researchers investigate a simple solution

A product most people already have at home

Ongoing pain deserves attention

Lasting digestive problems should not be ignored

Trouble swallowing may signal a problem

Unexplained bleeding requires medical assessment

Unexpected breathing difficulties can be significant

Constant exhaustion is not always harmless

Weight loss without trying should be investigated

Recurrent night sweats may be worth discussing

Persistent symptoms matter more than isolated episodes

Some cancers can remain silent for years

Screening can identify problems before symptoms appear

Lifestyle factors can influence cancer risk

Focus on simple exercises

Strength training becomes more important with age

Fruit makes a difference

The link became clear in the results

Different regulations affect development

South Korea leads the way

One in four Americans has MASLD

Diet quality plays a major role

Fruits and vegetables are linked to lower risk

Research findings are not entirely consistent

Fiber may benefit the liver

Studies point to benefits of higher fiber intake

The gut and liver are closely connected

Bananas may support beneficial gut bacteria

Potassium may also play a role

Antioxidants help protect the body’s cells

Natural sugar is different from added sugar

Overall dietary patterns matter most

When the body works harder

Four conditions to watch

Staying safe in hot weather

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