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Dietitian ate sweet potatoes every day for a week – here are the results

15. July, 2026

A dietitian set out to eat sweet potatoes every day for a week to see how the body would respond.

The experiment produced several surprising results, particularly when it came to satiety, energy levels, and digestion, according to Prevention.

The same variety

To keep the experiment consistent, only orange sweet potatoes were eaten throughout the week.

Preparation

The sweet potatoes were baked, mashed, oven-roasted, and cooked in an air fryer to provide some variety.

Suitable for multiple meals

They were usually eaten with dinner but were also included in breakfast and even blended into smoothies.

Increased energy

During the week, the dietitian noticed more stable energy levels throughout the afternoon.

Reduced hunger

Sweet potatoes provided a strong feeling of fullness after meals and helped reduce cravings for snacks and desserts later in the day.

Digestion remained healthy

The high fiber content helped keep digestion regular and stable throughout the experiment.

The flavor became repetitive

By the sixth day, eating the same vegetable every day started to feel somewhat repetitive, although the benefits outweighed the monotony.

Rich in nutrients

A medium baked sweet potato with the skin contains carbohydrates, dietary fiber, protein, and high amounts of vitamin A, along with vitamin C and potassium.

Contains antioxidants

Orange sweet potatoes are a source of beta-carotene, while purple varieties contain anthocyanins. Both act as antioxidants.

May support the immune system

Beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A in the body, which plays an important role in the normal function of the immune system.

Sweet potatoes also provide vitamin C.

May provide more stable energy

Sweet potatoes are a complex carbohydrate that releases energy gradually and may help promote more stable blood sugar levels, particularly when eaten with the skin and paired with protein or healthy fats.

May support eye health

Their high beta-carotene content makes sweet potatoes an excellent source of the precursor to vitamin A, which is essential for healthy vision.

Not everyone should eat large amounts

People with a history of calcium oxalate kidney stones or chronic kidney disease may need to limit their intake because of the oxalate and potassium content.

Anyone with a sweet potato allergy should, of course, avoid eating them.

The dietitian’s conclusion

After one week, the dietitian concluded that sweet potatoes are a nutritious and versatile source of carbohydrates that can provide vitamins, dietary fiber, and steady energy.

Do sunglasses block vitamin D? Here’s what an eye doctor says

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

15. July, 2026

Do sunglasses block vitamin D? Here’s what an eye doctor says

Many people believe that sunglasses are only necessary when the sun is shining from a clear blue sky. However, UV radiation can also reach the eyes on cloudy days.

For that reason, ophthalmologist Willem Birkhoff from Het Oogziekenhuis Rotterdam recommends in an interview with RTL that people wear sunglasses whenever they also need sunscreen.

This is especially important for children, as their eyes are more sensitive to UV radiation.

Choose the right pair

Expensive sunglasses do not necessarily provide better protection than inexpensive ones.

According to Willem Birkhoff, the most important thing is that the sunglasses carry the CE mark and preferably have a UV400 filter, which protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

He also warns against buying sunglasses from webshops outside Europe.

If the lenses are dark but lack adequate UV protection, they may actually increase the risk of eye damage.

Can you still get enough vitamin D?

There are several myths about sunglasses. One of them is that they can reduce the body’s production of vitamin D.

According to Willem Birkhoff, this is not true because vitamin D is produced in the skin, not through the eyes.

He also believes that sunglasses have only a very limited effect on the body’s circadian rhythm.

The primary reason for wearing sunglasses is to protect the eyes from UV radiation.

According to Willem Birkhoff, many years of UV exposure can increase the risk of conditions such as cataracts and age-related damage to the retina.

These conditions develop gradually and are often not detected until many years later.

Should you choose greek yogurt or regular yogurt? Dietitians have the answer

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

15. July, 2026

Should you choose greek yogurt or regular yogurt? Dietitians have the answer

Yogurt is a popular breakfast staple, but the wide variety of options can make it difficult to choose.

Many people therefore wonder whether Greek yogurt is healthier than regular yogurt.

According to dietitians speaking to ELLE, the answer is not that simple. Both types can be part of a healthy diet, but they offer different benefits.

What sets them apart?

Greek yogurt is strained an extra time, removing some of the liquid. This gives it a thicker consistency and a higher protein content.

Regular yogurt, on the other hand, often contains slightly more calcium, which is important for maintaining healthy bones, according to ELLE.

Both types contain live bacterial cultures that may benefit gut health.

ELLE also cites research showing that Greek yogurt may support muscle growth when combined with strength training.

However, it is also worth noting that Greek yogurt is often more expensive, and flavored varieties can contain large amounts of added sugar.

The most important choice

If you want more protein and would like to stay full for longer, Greek yogurt may be a good choice.

If, on the other hand, you are looking for more calcium or a more affordable yogurt, regular yogurt may be the better option.

Ultimately, neither type of yogurt is healthier than the other.

The most important thing is to choose plain yogurt without added sugar and find a variety that suits your needs and that you enjoy eating regularly.

Parasitic outbreak grows in the US – possible sources under investigation

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

15. July, 2026

Parasitic outbreak grows in the US – possible sources under investigation

According to US health authorities, an unusually high number of people have been infected with the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis this summer.

According to The Sun, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed 1,645 cases through laboratory testing, while several thousand additional reports are still being processed.

Authorities also believe the actual number of infections may be higher, as not everyone undergoes testing.

Search for the source

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection spread through contaminated food or water.

The illness commonly causes severe diarrhea and abdominal pain.

Most people recover with antibiotic treatment, but without treatment, symptoms can persist for an extended period, according to the CDC.

Michigan is one of the states reporting the highest number of cases.

After interviewing more than 1,000 patients, the state’s health authorities believe that lettuce or other leafy greens may be the most likely source of the outbreak.

However, they stress that other food products are still under investigation.

Multiple leads under investigation

The Washington Post reports that the investigation also includes lettuce served at certain Taco Bell restaurants in Michigan.

Several infected individuals said they had eaten at the chain, but other patients had never visited a Taco Bell location.

As a result, authorities do not believe the outbreak necessarily originated from a single restaurant chain.

Taco Bell has stated that it has temporarily removed certain ingredients from selected restaurants as a precautionary measure.

No conclusions yet

The exact cause of the outbreak has not yet been identified.

According to the CDC, some cases may be linked across multiple states, while The Guardian reports that new infections could continue to emerge through August.

This is because several days or even weeks often pass between the time a person becomes infected and when symptoms first appear.

As a result, it remains unclear which food item is the true source of the outbreak.

New discovery: Former COVID-19 patients may develop hidden eye problems

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

15. July, 2026

New discovery: Former COVID-19 patients may develop hidden eye problems

Researchers at Linköping University in Sweden studied 132 people who had previously experienced mild COVID-19.

Using specialized eye examinations and tear fluid analysis, they identified changes that cannot be detected through a standard eye examination.

The findings were published in the journal Nature Communications and reported by HealthDay.

Leave from work

The study found signs of inflammation and damage to the nerves that help the eye function.

Researchers also identified abnormalities in the pupils’ response to light and in the control of the eye muscles.

For some participants, the symptoms were severe enough that around one in three people with symptoms were fully or partially on sick leave from work, according to the study.

Explaining the problems

The study suggests that these hidden changes may be responsible for eye pain, light sensitivity, reading difficulties, and difficulty focusing.

At the same time, the findings help explain why many patients continue to experience symptoms even though a routine eye examination appears normal.

The researchers hope that these findings will make it easier to provide the correct diagnosis and, in the long term, lead to better treatment for people with persistent eye problems following a mild COVID-19 infection.

Dietitian ate yogurt every day for a week: Here are the biggest changes

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

15. July, 2026

Dietitian ate yogurt every day for a week: Here are the biggest changes

An American dietitian decided to eat yogurt every day for a week to see how it would affect her body.

The experiment resulted in both personal observations and findings that support several of yogurt’s well-known health benefits, according to Prevention.

Less bloating

After one week, the dietitian noticed that her stomach felt less bloated.

She believes this may have been due to eating fewer salty snacks, as well as the probiotics in yogurt, which can help support a healthy gut microbiome.

Better satiety

Yogurt made it easier to stay full between meals.

Greek yogurt in particular, with its high protein content and moderate fat content, provided a longer-lasting feeling of fullness.

More mindful food choices

Making yogurt part of her daily routine encouraged her to plan her meals more consciously.

Instead of reaching for random snacks, she thought more carefully about how yogurt would fit into her daily diet.

Good support for gut health

Yogurt contains probiotics that can contribute to a healthy and balanced gut microbiome.

This may benefit digestion while also supporting the immune system and overall well-being.

Protein helps control hunger

The high protein content makes yogurt an excellent snack.

Combined with the fat found in varieties that are not fat-free, it can help reduce hunger between meals.

Calcium supports bone health

Yogurt is a good source of calcium, an essential nutrient for maintaining strong bones.

Its protein content also helps support muscle maintenance and growth.

May help with weight management

The longer-lasting feeling of fullness may make it easier to avoid overeating.

During the experiment, the dietitian also found that she craved extra snacks less often.

Too much yogurt can be a downside

Although yogurt is a healthy food, consuming too much can lead to excessive calorie intake.

Sweetened and flavored varieties may also contain significant amounts of added sugar.

Be aware of lactose

Some people with lactose intolerance can tolerate yogurt because it contains less lactose than milk.

However, if it causes discomfort, it may be a good idea to eat yogurt less frequently or choose lactose-free varieties.

Certain medical conditions require extra consideration

People who need to monitor their protein or calcium intake because of specific medical conditions should speak with a doctor or a registered dietitian before making yogurt a regular part of their diet.

Greek yogurt was the favorite

The dietitian preferred Greek yogurt because of its thicker texture and higher protein content, which helped her feel fuller for longer.

Choose yogurt with little or no added sugar

Plain, unsweetened yogurt is highlighted as the best option.

Its flavor can easily be enhanced with ingredients such as honey, fresh fruit, or nuts.

Fat content depends on individual needs

Choosing between low-fat and full-fat yogurt depends on personal preferences and health goals.

For those looking to increase satiety, a variety with a slightly higher fat content may be a better choice.

Plant-based alternatives

People who follow a vegan diet or have a milk allergy can choose plant-based alternatives made from almonds, soy, or coconut.

It is recommended to select products that are fortified with probiotics, protein, and calcium.

How to protect yourself from the cyclospora outbreak

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

15. July, 2026

How to protect yourself from the cyclospora outbreak

Since May, several cases of the intestinal disease cyclosporiasis have been reported in the United States.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cases have been identified in 31 states, NPR reports.

A total of 843 cases have been recorded, but the CDC believes the actual number may be higher.

Many people recover without seeking medical care, and it can take several weeks for all cases to be officially reported.

The disease has been identified in people ranging in age from 5 to 88.

Authorities search for the source

The CDC is still investigating the source of the outbreak. As part of the investigation, officials are interviewing people who became ill about what they ate.

However, identifying a common source can be difficult because symptoms may not appear until several days or even weeks after infection.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), previous outbreaks have been linked to foods including raspberries, cilantro, basil, snow peas, and lettuce.

Advice for consumers

The CDC recommends thoroughly washing fruits, vegetables, and fresh herbs, as well as washing hands before and after preparing food.

Heating food to at least 70°C (158°F) can also kill the parasite.

According to the CDC, efforts are continuing to identify the food or beverage that may be responsible for the outbreak.

One-year obesity program shows lasting weight loss

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

15. July, 2026

One-year obesity program shows lasting weight loss

The obesity treatment program offered by the Primary Health Care Service in Växjö, Sweden, lasts for one year.

Participants initially meet every week and later once a month.

They also receive individual follow-up throughout the program, according to a press release from Region Kronoberg provided to VIA.

The program is not only about diet and weight loss. Participants also work on physical activity, stress management, sleep, and the habits that influence their daily lives.

Support along the way

The treatment begins with a period during which participants use meal replacements.

According to Region Kronoberg, research shows that rapid weight loss at the beginning of treatment can make it easier to maintain positive results over the long term.

The group sessions give participants the opportunity to share experiences and support one another.

They also learn more about topics such as hunger, satiety, and the mechanisms that influence their everyday choices.

The goal is to improve both health and quality of life, Region Kronoberg states.

Results after one year

Participants lost an average of 16 kilograms during the program.

One year after completing the treatment, 76 percent had maintained a weight loss of at least 10 percent.

According to Region Kronoberg, the findings suggest that a combination of structured support, regular follow-up, and a focus on lasting lifestyle changes can help many people maintain their weight loss over the long term.

Nutrition researcher: Why you should eat more berries

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

15. July, 2026

Nutrition researcher: Why you should eat more berries

Berries contain vitamins, but they also contain plant compounds known as polyphenols.

According to Daniel Ibsen, a nutrition researcher at Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus and Aarhus University from Denmark, research has shown that some of these compounds may have positive effects on blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and the risk of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.

This was stated in an interview with DR.

The researcher also emphasizes that all fruits and vegetables are healthy, but berries stand out because of their high polyphenol content.

Small differences

Not all berries contain the same amounts of these beneficial compounds.

According to DR, dark berries such as blackcurrants, blackberries, and wild blueberries are particularly rich in anthocyanins, the natural pigments that give the berries their color.

Daniel Ibsen also points out that berries in season can be a good choice.

Research shows that storage and transportation can affect polyphenol levels, although there are no conclusive studies on what impact this has on human health.

Among the healthiest fruits

The size of the berry may also make a difference.

Many of the beneficial compounds are found in the skin, meaning that smaller berries provide proportionally more skin than larger ones.

Daniel Ibsen told DR that he considers berries to be among the healthiest fruits people can eat.

New research reveals what anesthesia does to your brain

Mie Hermansen

15. July, 2026

New research reveals what anesthesia does to your brain

Many people think of anesthesia as nothing more than a deep sleep, but new research suggests the brain behaves in a much more complex way. The findings indicate that the anesthetized brain can display characteristics of multiple states of consciousness rather than simply being asleep, reports Yale.

Anesthesia is more than deep sleep

A new study from Yale School of Medicine challenges the long held belief that anesthesia is simply a state of deep sleep.

New research offers fresh insights

Published on May 11, 2026, in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the study examined how the brain responds while a patient is under anesthesia.

The brain is rarely monitored

Although anesthetic drugs act directly on the brain, researchers note that brain monitoring is still not part of routine care during most surgical procedures.

Researchers used EEG recordings

The team measured brain activity using electroencephalography, or EEG, by placing electrodes on the patients’ scalps throughout the procedure.

The entire brain was examined

Instead of focusing only on the front of the head, the researchers used a full head EEG with 20 electrodes to capture activity across multiple brain regions.

Propofol was the focus

MI scanning, hjerne — Photo: Shutterstock.com

The study analyzed patients who received propofol, one of the most commonly used anesthetic drugs during surgery.

Brain activity was compared across different states

The recorded brain signals were compared with EEG patterns from people in deep sleep, REM sleep, normal wakefulness, and coma.

Anesthesia shares features with multiple states

The results showed that the anesthetized brain can display patterns similar to both sleep and coma, depending on which brain regions are examined.

Anesthesia also has its own signature

Researchers found evidence that anesthesia creates a unique pattern of brain activity that does not fully match any other known state of consciousness.

The goal is to reduce side effects

The research team hopes their work will help develop approaches that reduce long term effects on memory and cognitive function after surgery.

A sleep like state may offer benefits

According to the researchers, guiding the brain toward a more natural sleep like state during anesthesia could potentially lessen some of the side effects associated with surgical procedures.

Better monitoring could improve patient care

The researchers believe improved brain monitoring during surgery could allow anesthesiologists to tailor anesthesia more precisely to each patient’s needs.

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The same variety

Preparation

Suitable for multiple meals

Increased energy

Reduced hunger

Digestion remained healthy

The flavor became repetitive

Rich in nutrients

Contains antioxidants

May support the immune system

May provide more stable energy

May support eye health

Not everyone should eat large amounts

The dietitian’s conclusion

Choose the right pair

Can you still get enough vitamin D?

What sets them apart?

The most important choice

Search for the source

Multiple leads under investigation

No conclusions yet

Leave from work

Explaining the problems

Less bloating

Better satiety

More mindful food choices

Good support for gut health

Protein helps control hunger

Calcium supports bone health

May help with weight management

Too much yogurt can be a downside

Be aware of lactose

Certain medical conditions require extra consideration

Greek yogurt was the favorite

Choose yogurt with little or no added sugar

Fat content depends on individual needs

Plant-based alternatives

Authorities search for the source

Advice for consumers

Support along the way

Results after one year

Small differences

Among the healthiest fruits

Anesthesia is more than deep sleep

New research offers fresh insights

The brain is rarely monitored

Researchers used EEG recordings

The entire brain was examined

Propofol was the focus

Brain activity was compared across different states

Anesthesia shares features with multiple states

Anesthesia also has its own signature

The goal is to reduce side effects

A sleep like state may offer benefits

Better monitoring could improve patient care

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