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How pasta can affect your blood pressure if you eat it regularly

11. May, 2026

Pasta is often linked to high blood sugar, but experts believe it can still be part of a healthy diet — even for people with diabetes.

The key factors are ingredient choices and portion sizes, according to EatingWell.

Pasta and diabetes

People with diabetes need to pay close attention to carbohydrates to avoid major fluctuations in blood sugar levels.

Pasta contains a high amount of carbohydrates, which can affect the body quickly if meals are not balanced properly.

Blood sugar should be monitored

Experts recommend that people with diabetes monitor their blood sugar after eating pasta meals.

This can help them understand how different types of pasta and portion sizes affect their bodies.

Regular meals

Dietitian Samantha MacLeod recommends eating regular meals and snacks throughout the day.

This may help stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of major fluctuations.

Planning can help

According to Samantha MacLeod, planning ahead can make it easier to manage carbohydrate intake.

Apps and meal plans may help people maintain better control of their diet.

Whole grain is a better option

Whole grain pasta is highlighted as a healthier choice than regular pasta because it contains more fiber. Fiber plays an important role in how the body absorbs sugar.

Fiber slows absorption

Fiber may help slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. As a result, blood sugar levels may rise more gradually after meals containing high-fiber foods.

Study on high-fiber pasta

A study published in Nutrition, Metabolism & Cardiovascular Diseases found that participants had lower blood sugar levels after meals containing high-fiber pasta compared to standard pasta varieties.

Protein and vegetables

Samantha MacLeod recommends combining pasta with protein sources such as chicken, fish, or eggs.

Vegetables can also add extra fiber and make meals more balanced.

Pasta should not stand alone

According to Samantha MacLeod, pasta should not be eaten on its own without side dishes or additional ingredients.

The American Diabetes Association recommends that only around one-quarter of the plate should consist of carbohydrates.

Chickpea pasta

Chickpea pasta is highlighted as a high-protein alternative. One serving can contain up to 23 grams of protein, which may help increase satiety.

Nutritional value of pasta

One serving of dry pasta contains approximately 211 calories, 43 grams of carbohydrates, and 7 grams of protein.

Portion sizes matter

Large portions of pasta can lead to faster increases in blood sugar levels. Experts therefore recommend enjoying pasta in moderation as part of a balanced meal.

Sources: EatingWell, Nutrition, Metabolism & Cardiovascular Diseases, and the American Diabetes Association.

Ukraine shares knowledge with the US – new vehicle aims to save wounded soldiers

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

11. May, 2026

Ukraine shares knowledge with the US – new vehicle aims to save wounded soldiers

The Ukrainian Combat Medics came from Ukraine’s 3rd Army Corps. They attended a conference organized by the Special Operations Medical Association, also known as SOMA.

The organization focuses on tactical medicine and treatment during war and disaster situations.

According to the 3rd Army Corps, doctors, combat medics, and other medical specialists from Ukraine participated in the event, United24 Media reports.

Focus on treatment

During the conference, the Ukrainians spoke about treating soldiers near the front line.

Among other topics, they explained how wounded soldiers are treated during drone attacks and inside mobile field hospitals.

SOMA describes itself as an organization that brings together military and civilian experts to develop new methods in emergency treatment and battlefield medicine.

At the same time, Ukraine is working on new solutions for evacuating wounded soldiers.

According to the manufacturer Inguar Defence, the company has developed an armored ambulance version of the Inguar-3 vehicle.

Gaining international importance

The vehicle has been redesigned with space for a stretcher and faster loading of wounded soldiers under fire.

The manufacturer states that the level of protection remains the same as in the original model.

Experience from the war in Ukraine is now being used to reshape international standards for treating wounded soldiers in combat zones.

Sources: United24 Media.

Why mosquitoes keep choosing you – scientists may have found the answer

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

11. May, 2026

Why mosquitoes keep choosing you – scientists may have found the answer

Scientists from the Georgia Institute of Technology and MIT investigated how mosquitoes locate humans.

Using cameras and analyzing millions of data points, the researchers tracked the insects’ movements in detail.

The study, published in Science Advances and described by SciTechDaily, focused on the species Aedes aegypti, which can spread diseases such as Zika and yellow fever.

The researchers discovered that mosquitoes do not follow one another. Instead, they respond to the same environmental signals, which often leads them to gather in the same places.

Colors matter

In the experiments, the scientists tested different colors and levels of carbon dioxide — the gas humans exhale.

A dark object attracted more mosquitoes than a light-colored one. When carbon dioxide was added at the same time, the attraction became even stronger.

The mosquitoes gathered mainly around the heads and shoulders of the participants. Researchers recorded their flight patterns using infrared cameras.

According to the scientists, the findings could help develop more effective mosquito traps. This could include changing how the traps emit light or carbon dioxide.

Sources: SciTechDaily and Science Advances.

Study identifies the unhealthiest diet among older adults

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

11. May, 2026

Study identifies the unhealthiest diet among older adults

A U.S. study published in Public Health Nutrition and reported by News-Medical examined more than 5,000 people over the age of 60 and identified five different dietary patterns among older adults.

The study is based on data from the U.S. health survey NHANES collected between 2013 and 2018.

Some participants mainly ate vegetables, fish, and yogurt, while others consumed diets high in processed foods, alcohol, and pastries.

Researchers found major differences in both health and living conditions between the groups.

Healthy food brings benefits

According to the study, people whose diets were rich in vegetables and fish generally had better health and fewer problems accessing food. They also had the highest overall diet quality.

In contrast, poorer diets were often linked to obesity, smoking, and lower income levels.

Researchers point out that financial difficulties and physical limitations can make it challenging for older adults to buy and prepare healthy meals.

Soft foods

The most common diet type among participants consisted of soups, smoothies, and other soft foods.

This group had a lower intake of protein and energy than the other participants.

Researchers believe this particular group may be especially vulnerable to malnutrition and muscle loss.

At the same time, they were more likely to have poorer health and face a greater risk of food insecurity.

Older adults’ diets are not only about personal choices, but also about access to food, financial resources, and physical ability.

Sources: Medical News Today and Public Health Nutrition.

A handful of legumes could reduce the risk of high blood pressure by 30 percent

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

11. May, 2026

A handful of legumes could reduce the risk of high blood pressure by 30 percent

High blood pressure is often referred to as a “silent disease” because many people do not notice symptoms in the early stages, according to The Sun.

Over time, the condition can increase the risk of blood clots and strokes.

Smoking, alcohol consumption, excessive salt intake, and lack of exercise are among the factors that can raise the risk.

Legumes

A new study published in the journal BMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health reviewed 12 previous studies to investigate whether certain foods could affect blood pressure.

The research focused particularly on legumes such as beans, chickpeas, lentils, and peas, as well as soy products including tofu, miso, and edamame.

People who consumed the highest amounts of these foods had a lower risk of developing high blood pressure than those who consumed the least.

How much should you eat?

Researchers found that consuming around 170 grams of legumes per day produced the greatest effect. This corresponds to a small serving of beans or lentils.

For soy products, the ideal amount was between 60 and 80 grams daily. That is roughly equivalent to a palm-sized piece of tofu.

According to the analysis, people following these dietary habits had up to a 30 percent lower risk of high blood pressure.

However, the researchers emphasized that the study has limitations, although they believe the findings could influence future dietary guidelines.

Sources: The Sun and BMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health.

Expert reveals the warning signs of a high functioning alcoholic

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

11. May, 2026

Expert reveals the warning signs of a high functioning alcoholic

A former addict is now sharing the signs that many people overlook in individuals with a hidden alcohol problem.

Coach Ben Lowe told LADbible that it often involves people who still manage their jobs and daily lives while developing a dependency on alcohol.

Not honest about alcohol consumption

Ben Lowe says it can be a warning sign when someone hides or downplays how much they drink.

He believes many people automatically give a lower number because the truth feels too serious to admit.

Alcohol becomes part of every situation

Another sign is when alcohol becomes a regular part of almost every situation. This includes stress, celebrations, family time, and after-work routines.

Comparing themselves to others

According to Ben Lowe, it can be problematic when someone defends their drinking habits by pointing to people who drink more.

He says this is not a sign of healthy behavior, but rather a reflection of low standards.

Becoming defensive when criticized

Ben Lowe also explains that many people react defensively when someone comments on their drinking habits. This can indicate that the subject touches on something sensitive.

Unable to relax without alcohol

Another warning sign is when a person feels unable to unwind without a drink.

Ben Lowe explains that the relief after the first drink may be more about dependency than enjoyment.

Saying they can stop anytime

According to Ben Lowe, many people claim they could stop drinking whenever they want. The problem arises when this never actually happens in practice.

Emotionally absent

Ben Lowe also mentions people who are physically present but mentally distant. Alcohol can create distance in relationships, even when everyday life appears functional on the surface.

Family and friends notice distance

If family members or friends feel like they are walking on eggshells around someone, it may be a sign of a larger alcohol-related problem.

Drinking alone or in secret

According to the treatment center Priory, it can also be a warning sign when someone drinks alone, secretly, or at unusual times.

Using alcohol as a reward

Some people justify their drinking by describing it as a deserved reward or a way to celebrate something.

Struggling with social situations without alcohol

Priory also points out that some people avoid social events without alcohol because they feel uncomfortable without drinking.

Experiencing blackouts

Another sign is memory loss after drinking, where a person struggles to remember evenings or even entire days because of heavy alcohol consumption.

Becoming irritable without alcohol

If a person becomes restless or irritable after a day or two without alcohol, it may also indicate dependency.

Needing larger amounts of alcohol

Priory explains that increased tolerance is common. This means the person needs to drink more alcohol to feel the same effect as before.

Sources: LADbible and Priory.

How much should beginners walk? Experts share their advice

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

11. May, 2026

How much should beginners walk? Experts share their advice

Many people believe exercise only works if you train hard. But according to Runner’s World, the most important thing for beginners is simply to start slowly and build up gradually.

Experts recommend walking for 20 to 30 minutes at a time, three to five times per week. Depending on your pace, that equals roughly 6 to 15 kilometers per week.

It is better to take several short walks than one long walk followed by several days of rest.

The body needs time to adjust

If you are not used to exercise, even short walks can take a toll on the body.

That is why experts recommend increasing distance gradually to avoid pain in the knees, back, or tendons.

Runner’s World advises increasing your total walking distance by no more than around 10 percent per week.

People who already cycle or play sports can often walk longer distances from the beginning. Even so, the body still needs time to adapt to the strain of walking.

Fewer kilometers may be enough

According to the WHO, adults should get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. Walking can meet that requirement if the pace is brisk enough.

The benefits may include reduced stress, better sleep, and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, Runner’s World writes.

In addition, the goal of 10,000 steps per day is not based on an official health recommendation.

Instead, the most important thing is finding a level you can maintain over time.

Sources: Runner’s World and WHO.

Breakthrough could speed up visits to the dentist

Mie Hermansen

11. May, 2026

Breakthrough could speed up visits to the dentist

You know how easy it is to delay a dental visit when it sounds like a long process with multiple appointments.

For many, the idea of waiting weeks for a final result is enough to keep it off the calendar.

Researchers from the University of Texas at Dallas may be changing that reality. Their latest work focuses on speeding up how strong, natural-looking dental crowns are produced, using advanced 3D printing techniques, writes Antyweb.

Faster process

Zirconia is widely used in dentistry because of its strength and resemblance to real teeth.

However, producing crowns from this material has traditionally taken time, especially during a stage where binding materials must be carefully removed.

This step, known as debinding, has been a major bottleneck, often lasting anywhere from 20 to 100 hours in standard processes.

New approach

The research team developed a method using high heat transfer combined with a porous graphite structure in a controlled environment.

This allows gases to escape more efficiently during production, preventing damage to the material.

As a result, the debinding phase can now be completed in less than 30 minutes, while maintaining similar strength and quality. The process also uses significantly less energy than conventional methods.

Future impact

If approved for clinical use, this advancement could allow dentists to create custom zirconia crowns in just one visit, reducing waiting times and improving patient experience.

Key advantages may include:

Faster treatments
Fewer appointments
Improved efficiency

Further testing is still required before the technology becomes widely available.

Have you avoided potatoes? Here’s why they deserve a second chance

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

11. May, 2026

Have you avoided potatoes? Here’s why they deserve a second chance

Potatoes are often excluded because they contain carbohydrates that can affect blood sugar levels. However, the effect depends on how they are incorporated into a meal.

If they are eaten together with foods rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats, the rise in blood sugar occurs more gradually, according to Netdoktor.

In addition, potatoes contain both fiber and some protein, especially when the skin is eaten. This makes them a more nutritionally complex food than many assume.

Key nutrients

Potatoes provide several important nutrients. Among other things, they contain potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure. The content can be higher than in certain fruits.

They are also a source of vitamin C, although some is lost during cooking.

With the skin on, a serving can cover a large part of the daily requirement.

In addition, potatoes contain iron, which the body uses to transport oxygen.

Weight and satiety

Potatoes are low in calories and contain no fat. At the same time, research cited by Netdoktor suggests that they are more filling than many other carbohydrate sources.

A study from the University of California, published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, shows that people can lose weight even when they eat potatoes regularly.

What matters is the overall calorie intake, not a single food item.

On this basis, research indicates that potatoes are not unhealthy in themselves. Their role depends on how they are included in the overall diet.

Sources: Netdoktor and Journal of the American College of Nutrition.

How yogurt can affect your blood pressure if you eat it regularly

Mie Hermansen

11. May, 2026

How yogurt can affect your blood pressure if you eat it regularly

Yogurt can have a positive effect on your blood pressure if you choose the right type and include it as part of a balanced diet. This article is based on reporting from Parade.

Yogurt can be part of a blood pressure-lowering diet

Low-fat dairy products like yogurt are included in the DASH diet, which is specifically designed to help lower blood pressure. This makes yogurt a natural fit in a heart-healthy eating pattern.

Not all yogurt is the same

Yogurt comes in many varieties with different fat contents and flavorings. Some also contain more additives than others, which can affect their overall nutritional value.

Choose options low in saturated fat and added sugar

To get the most benefit, it’s recommended to select yogurt with low levels of saturated fat and minimal added sugar or processed ingredients.

Plain yogurt gives you more control

Choosing unsweetened yogurt allows you to control both the flavor and the nutritional content by adding your own ingredients.

Sweetness can be added naturally

If you prefer a sweeter taste, a small amount of honey or maple syrup can be used instead of pre-sweetened options.

Yogurt offers a balanced nutrient profile

Yogurt contains a mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fat, which helps provide steady energy throughout the day.

Stable blood sugar supports healthy blood pressure

Keeping blood sugar levels stable can help prevent hormonal spikes that may otherwise increase heart rate and constrict blood vessels.

Research links yogurt to lower blood pressure

A large study involving more than 3,000 participants found that people who eat yogurt several times a week tend to have lower blood pressure.

Regular intake may reduce hypertension risk

Other research suggests that eating multiple servings of yogurt weekly is associated with a lower risk of developing high blood pressure.

Yogurt is a good source of protein

Greek yogurt in particular is rich in protein, which supports energy levels and helps you feel full longer.

It may support weight management

Studies have linked yogurt consumption with lower body mass index and reduced body fat.

Contains calcium and probiotics

Yogurt provides calcium, which plays a role in both bone health and heart function, as well as probiotics that support a healthy gut microbiome.

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Pasta and diabetes

Blood sugar should be monitored

Regular meals

Planning can help

Whole grain is a better option

Fiber slows absorption

Study on high-fiber pasta

Protein and vegetables

Pasta should not stand alone

Chickpea pasta

Nutritional value of pasta

Portion sizes matter

Focus on treatment

Gaining international importance

Colors matter

Healthy food brings benefits

Soft foods

Legumes

How much should you eat?

Not honest about alcohol consumption

Alcohol becomes part of every situation

Comparing themselves to others

Becoming defensive when criticized

Unable to relax without alcohol

Saying they can stop anytime

Emotionally absent

Family and friends notice distance

Drinking alone or in secret

Using alcohol as a reward

Struggling with social situations without alcohol

Experiencing blackouts

Becoming irritable without alcohol

Needing larger amounts of alcohol

The body needs time to adjust

Fewer kilometers may be enough

Faster process

New approach

Future impact

Key nutrients

Weight and satiety

Yogurt can be part of a blood pressure-lowering diet

Not all yogurt is the same

Choose options low in saturated fat and added sugar

Plain yogurt gives you more control

Sweetness can be added naturally

Yogurt offers a balanced nutrient profile

Stable blood sugar supports healthy blood pressure

Research links yogurt to lower blood pressure

Regular intake may reduce hypertension risk

Yogurt is a good source of protein

It may support weight management

Contains calcium and probiotics

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