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Do you use AI to count calories? New study raises doubts about its accuracy

29. July, 2026

More people are now using AI apps to keep track of their diets. All it takes is a photo of a meal, after which the app estimates its calorie and nutrient content.

However, a new study indicates that the results may be less accurate than many people believe.

Researchers tested four apps

Researchers from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases tested four popular apps, according to ScienceDaily.

They compared the apps’ estimates with 102 meals in which every ingredient had been weighed with great precision.

According to the American Society for Nutrition, this provided a reliable basis for assessing how well the apps performed.

The findings were presented at the NUTRITION 2026 nutrition conference.

However, the study is still preliminary, as it has not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Certain dishes caused problems

The researchers also examined more than 200 additional meals.

According to the American Society for Nutrition, the apps had particular difficulty estimating dishes with a high fat content, including ketogenic meals.

By contrast, their carbohydrate estimates were more often accurate.

Underestimating dietary intake

The overall analysis showed that the four apps typically underestimated both calories and fat.

On average, the estimates were between 250 and 345 calories lower per meal, while the fat content was estimated to be around 30 grams less than the actual amount.

The researchers therefore recommend using image-based AI apps alongside more traditional methods if the goal is to track dietary intake as accurately as possible.

Restricted eating hours may improve cognitive function

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

29. July, 2026

Restricted eating hours may improve cognitive function

Researchers are increasingly investigating the idea that it is not only important what we eat, but also when we eat.

Previous research has shown, according to The Guardian, that a longer overnight fasting period may benefit factors such as body weight, blood pressure, and metabolism. As a result, interest in intermittent fasting has grown.

At the same time, experts believe that healthy lifestyle habits may help reduce the risk of dementia.

Being overweight during midlife is one of the factors that can increase the risk later in life.

Lost seven kilograms

A U.S. pilot study, presented at Nutrition 2026, the annual conference organized by the American Society for Nutrition in Maryland, followed 47 women aged 50 to 79 who were overweight or living with obesity over a six-month period.

All participants consumed fewer calories, but some also restricted their meals to a nine-hour eating window.

Both groups lost an average of around seven kilograms. However, the researchers emphasize that the study is small and that the findings need to be confirmed in larger studies.

Problem-solving and planning

The researchers will now investigate why meal timing may play a role.

Among other things, they are examining the relationship between circadian rhythms, metabolism, and inflammation.

Women who ate within a nine-hour eating window and avoided eating during the last four hours before bedtime performed better on tests of planning and problem-solving than the other participants.

A neurologist eats these five foods every day

Mie Hermansen

29. July, 2026

A neurologist eats these five foods every day

Most people only think about their brain when memory starts to fade or concentration becomes a challenge. But what you put on your plate every day may be just as important as sleep and exercise when it comes to supporting long-term brain health.

According to The Times of India, neurologist Dr. Aaron Lord of NYU Langone Hospital has highlighted a handful of foods he makes a regular part of his own diet.

His recommendations align with research suggesting that foods known to benefit heart health can also help support the brain.

The brain needs the right fuel

The brain consumes a significant share of the body’s energy and depends on a steady supply of oxygen and nutrients to function properly. Experts say that a balanced diet rich in healthy fats, fibre, vitamins and antioxidants may help support memory, concentration and overall cognitive health.

At the same time, they stress that no single food can prevent disease on its own. Instead, long-term eating habits are considered far more important than any individual ingredient.

Five everyday choices

According to Dr. Lord, these are among the foods he regularly includes in his diet: Wild-caught oily fish, leafy green vegetables, tomatoes, walnuts, berries, and moderate amounts of coffee or tea.

These foods provide nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, flavonoids, fibre and antioxidants, which research has linked to healthy brain function and reduced inflammation.

Small habits matter

Experts say brain health is influenced by a range of factors, including physical activity, quality sleep, social connections and nutrition. Rather than searching for a single “superfood,” the focus should be on building healthy habits that can be maintained over time.

A diet centred on natural, minimally processed foods may be one simple way to support both brain health and overall well-being.

Why a banana may be the perfect evening snack

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

29. July, 2026

Why a banana may be the perfect evening snack

Many people feel hungry shortly before bedtime. In those moments, a banana can be a better choice than many other late-night snacks.

A medium-sized banana contains around 100 calories and provides dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

According to Healthline and Verywell Health, as cited by Keventajat, the fiber in bananas may help you feel full for longer and reduce the urge to snack later in the evening.

It contains important nutrients

Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, which is essential for normal muscle function and a healthy nervous system.

This is one reason why the fruit is particularly popular among people who exercise or have sweated heavily during the day.

Bananas also contain magnesium, which supports normal muscle function, energy production, and the proper functioning of the nervous system.

Healthline and Verywell Health note that many people do not get enough magnesium through their diet.

Why you should eat a banana in the evening

Bananas contain the amino acid tryptophan, which the body uses to produce serotonin and melatonin.

They also provide vitamin B6, which helps the body make better use of tryptophan.

A banana is not a sleeping aid, but its nutrients may support the body’s natural evening processes.

At the same time, the combination of carbohydrates and dietary fiber may help keep hunger at bay throughout the night, making a banana a simple and nutritious choice for an evening snack.

These foods can make your hair more fragile

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

29. July, 2026

These foods can make your hair more fragile

Summer treats can affect your hair if they regularly replace more nutritious foods.

According to Dr. Emrah Cinik, founder of Dr. Cinik Hair Clinic, hair follicles need a steady supply of nutrients to produce strong hair strands, Express reports.

Diet can affect hair growth

Research cited by Express shows that deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals can disrupt the hair’s normal growth cycle.

As a result, some people may experience more hair loss than usual.

Summer habits change

During the summer, many people change their eating habits.

Barbecued foods, sugary snacks, and alcohol can more easily become a regular part of their weekly diet.

Hair follicles need nutrients

Hair follicles require a continuous supply of vitamins, minerals, and protein to produce strong, healthy hair.

If the diet lacks these nutrients, the strength and quality of the hair may be affected.

Ice cream can contain large amounts of sugar

Ice cream is a popular treat in warm weather, but according to Dr. Emrah Cinik, regularly consuming high amounts of sugar may increase inflammation in the body.

Ice pops can also affect your hair

Ice pops, like traditional ice cream, can also contain high amounts of sugar.

Inflammation may affect the area around the hair follicles, making it harder for them to produce strong hair strands.

Sugar can affect blood circulation

Frequent spikes in blood sugar may reduce how efficiently nutrients are delivered to the scalp.

Over time, this may contribute to weaker hair.

High sugar intake may increase hair loss

When hair follicles do not receive nutrients efficiently, the hair can become more fragile.

According to the expert, this may eventually lead to increased hair loss.

Sausages contain fewer beneficial nutrients

Sausages and other processed meat products may contain high levels of unhealthy fats.

At the same time, they often provide fewer of the nutrients that support healthy hair growth.

French fries may affect the scalp

Deep-fried foods such as French fries are often high in unhealthy fats.

These fats may increase inflammation and negatively affect the scalp environment.

Hair may become more fragile

A diet high in processed and fried foods can make it more difficult for the body to provide the hair with the nutrients it needs.

As a result, hair may become drier, oilier, or more prone to breakage.

Alcohol can dehydrate the body

Cocktails and other alcoholic drinks can contribute to dehydration.

According to the expert, staying properly hydrated plays an important role in maintaining a healthy scalp.

Alcohol can affect nutrient absorption

Heavy alcohol consumption may reduce the body’s ability to absorb zinc, iron, and B vitamins.

All of these nutrients are associated with healthy hair growth.

Dietitian: Ginger tea is the best choice against inflammation

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

29. July, 2026

Dietitian: Ginger tea is the best choice against inflammation

Inflammation is the body’s way of protecting itself against injuries and infections.

It is a normal response that disappears once the body has recovered.

The problem arises when inflammation persists over a long period. According to StatPearls, chronic inflammation can increase the risk of conditions including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and stroke.

That is why experts interviewed by EatingWell recommend a healthy lifestyle with good sleep, reduced stress, and a balanced diet.

What the research shows

Several studies suggest that ginger contains compounds that may help the body reduce inflammation.

According to research published in the Journal of Functional Foods and Molecules, this is largely due to compounds known as gingerols and shogaols, which also act as antioxidants.

Research also shows that ginger may have a positive effect on joint pain and other conditions in which inflammation plays a role.

A review published in Diabetology & Metabolic Syndrome also points to potential improvements in cholesterol levels, blood sugar, and body fat.

Why this tea stands out

Researchers do not yet know how much ginger tea should be consumed to achieve the greatest benefit.

Even so, ginger tea is considered a safe and affordable option that can easily become part of a daily routine.

That is also why dietitian Roxana Ehsani told EatingWell that ginger tea is the best tea for reducing inflammation.

Her assessment is based on the overall body of research, which suggests that ginger has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The choice of coffee may affect your biological ageing

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

29. July, 2026

The choice of coffee may affect your biological ageing

Researchers analysed data from 49,414 participants in the UK Biobank to investigate whether different types of coffee are linked to biological ageing.

In the study, published in the journal npj Science of Food, the researchers adjusted for factors including age, sex, smoking, body weight, physical activity, and existing medical conditions to reduce the influence of other variables.

Small differences

The results showed a difference between filtered coffee and instant coffee.

At the same time, the differences were relatively small, and the researchers concluded that they are likely to have limited significance for individuals.

The study also found no clear association between biological ageing and other types of coffee.

The researchers further emphasise that unknown factors may still have influenced the results.

No evidence yet

The study cannot demonstrate that coffee directly affects ageing.

It only shows an association, meaning that further long-term studies are needed before the findings can be used to inform dietary recommendations.

However, people who drank filtered coffee generally showed signs of slower biological ageing.

By contrast, participants who drank instant coffee more often showed signs of faster biological ageing. However, the researchers emphasise that there is no evidence that the type of coffee is the cause of this difference.

Daily earbuds use could increase the risk of ear problems

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

29. July, 2026

Daily earbuds use could increase the risk of ear problems

The ear has a natural balance of moisture, earwax, and bacteria that helps protect against infections.

According to OSF HealthCare, this balance can be disrupted if you do not take proper care of your ears.

The healthcare provider also advises against using cotton swabs inside the ear.

They can push earwax deeper into the ear canal and, in the worst cases, damage the ear canal.

Good habits make a difference

It is important to keep your earbuds clean.

According to OSF HealthCare, they should be cleaned at least once a week with an alcohol wipe.

They should also be cleaned after exercise or other activities that cause sweating.

If you have an ear infection, it is recommended that you avoid using earbuds until your ear has fully healed.

Over-ear headphones can be a good alternative.

Earbuds may increase the risk

Earbuds can create an environment in which bacteria and fungi are more likely to grow, especially when they are worn for long periods or during exercise.

Symptoms such as pain, itching, discharge from the ear, or hearing loss may be signs of an ear infection.

According to OSF HealthCare, treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include medicated ear drops.

These foods contain more omega-3 than salmon

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

29. July, 2026

These foods contain more omega-3 than salmon

Salmon is widely regarded as one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids, but according to Health, several other foods and supplements contain just as much or even more.

Omega-3 is essential for the body

Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid that supports heart health and may help reduce inflammation.

Because the body cannot produce enough omega-3 on its own, it must be obtained through food or dietary supplements.

Salmon is not the only option

Although salmon is well known for its DHA and EPA content, several other foods and supplements are also rich in omega-3 and often have a longer shelf life.

Anchovies are a concentrated source

Anchovies provide high amounts of DHA and EPA.

They are also a good source of calcium, iron, selenium, and iodine.

Sardines are packed with nutrients

Sardines contain nearly as much omega-3 as salmon.

They also provide protein, calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, and zinc.

Sardines contain less mercury

According to Health, sardines accumulate significantly less mercury than larger fish such as salmon because they are smaller, have shorter lifespans, and are lower on the food chain.

Iodine plays an important role

Health highlights that iodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormones, which help regulate metabolism, energy levels, and body temperature.

Omega-3 supplements are an alternative

Omega-3 supplements can be a practical option for people who do not eat fish or seafood.

They typically contain a combination of EPA and DHA.

Caviar is exceptionally rich in omega-3

Two tablespoons of caviar provide more DHA and EPA than the same amount of salmon.

Caviar is also a source of vitamin B12 and choline.

Chia seeds provide ALA and fiber

Chia seeds are rich in the plant-based omega-3 fatty acid ALA, as well as dietary fiber, magnesium, selenium, and zinc.

The fiber helps support normal digestive function.

Chia seeds are versatile

According to Health, chia seeds can be mixed into oatmeal, added to baked goods, or used to make chia pudding for a quick breakfast.

Flaxseed oil is the richest plant source

Flaxseed oil is the most concentrated plant source of the omega-3 fatty acid ALA.

Health notes that it is not suitable for frying but can be taken as a supplement or drizzled over cold dishes.

Cod liver oil tops the list

Cod liver oil contains more DHA and EPA per tablespoon than salmon.

It is also a source of vitamins A and D and is available as both a liquid oil and in capsule form.

Experts call for changes to ADHD treatment after new research

Mie Hermansen

29. July, 2026

Experts call for changes to ADHD treatment after new research

For many people, receiving an ADHD diagnosis is the first step toward understanding challenges they may have lived with for years. As more people begin treatment, attention is also turning to how that care can be made as safe as possible.

According to reporting by the Daily Mail, supported by findings from several research groups, experts are now calling for greater focus on heart health before medication is prescribed.

Prevention first

The charity Cardiac Risk In The Young believes patients should be offered an ECG before starting stimulant ADHD medication to help identify previously undiagnosed heart conditions. According to the report, routine heart screening is not currently part of the NHS prescribing process.

The discussion follows research examining whether stimulant medications used to treat ADHD could be associated with cardiovascular problems.

One study found that older adults faced a higher risk of heart attack, stroke and certain heart rhythm disorders during the first month after beginning treatment.

The Daily Mail also cited research from Sweden suggesting that people with ADHD are more likely to develop cardiovascular disease than those without the condition.

Diagnoses keep rising

The debate comes as ADHD diagnoses and prescriptions continue to increase across England.

Estimates published in May 2025 suggested that around 2.5 million people in England are living with ADHD, including those who have not yet received a formal diagnosis.

The report also highlighted a sharp rise in ADHD prescriptions among men aged 18 to 29. According to a doctor quoted by the Daily Mail, the increase may reflect the growing number of adults being referred for ADHD assessments over the past five years.

While researchers continue to study the relationship between ADHD, medication and cardiovascular health, the latest findings have prompted fresh calls for additional screening measures before treatment begins.

12 3...406 Page 1 of 406

Researchers tested four apps

Certain dishes caused problems

Underestimating dietary intake

Lost seven kilograms

Problem-solving and planning

The brain needs the right fuel

Five everyday choices

Small habits matter

It contains important nutrients

Why you should eat a banana in the evening

Diet can affect hair growth

Summer habits change

Hair follicles need nutrients

Ice cream can contain large amounts of sugar

Ice pops can also affect your hair

Sugar can affect blood circulation

High sugar intake may increase hair loss

Sausages contain fewer beneficial nutrients

French fries may affect the scalp

Hair may become more fragile

Alcohol can dehydrate the body

Alcohol can affect nutrient absorption

What the research shows

Why this tea stands out

Small differences

No evidence yet

Good habits make a difference

Earbuds may increase the risk

Omega-3 is essential for the body

Salmon is not the only option

Anchovies are a concentrated source

Sardines are packed with nutrients

Sardines contain less mercury

Iodine plays an important role

Omega-3 supplements are an alternative

Caviar is exceptionally rich in omega-3

Chia seeds provide ALA and fiber

Chia seeds are versatile

Flaxseed oil is the richest plant source

Cod liver oil tops the list

Prevention first

Diagnoses keep rising

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