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Seeing your own blood vessels could help reduce cardiovascular risk, study finds

22. April, 2026

Cardiovascular diseases are among the most common causes of death and are often linked to atherosclerosis.

Risk factors such as an unhealthy lifestyle, high blood pressure, and cholesterol play a central role, according to a press release from VIA at Umeå University in Sweden.

Although these diseases can often be prevented, many people find it difficult to relate to their personal risk.

Numbers and written information are not always sufficient to create understanding.

Ultrasound images of blood vessels can help reveal early signs of atherosclerosis before symptoms appear. When these images are shown to patients, the risk becomes more tangible.

A new study from Sweden has examined this in two groups of people.

New study from Sweden

A new study published in European Heart Journal Open included approximately 3,500 people aged 40 to 60 in Sweden.

Participants were divided into two groups with different types of information.

One group was shown images of their blood vessels, received information about their risk, and participated in discussions with healthcare professionals. Their doctors also had access to the results.

The other group did not initially have access to this information and instead followed standard care in the healthcare system.

Results over time

After one and three years, the group that received images and consultations had a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and showed better progress in several health factors.

After six years, the other group had caught up after also being shown images and participating in discussions.

The study shows that it is particularly the combination of visual images and dialogue that, over time, can encourage more people to change their lifestyle and adhere to treatment.

Sources: VIA and European Heart Journal Open.

This happens in your body if you eat soy every day

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

22. April, 2026

This happens in your body if you eat soy every day

Soy products such as tofu, tempeh, and soy milk are included in certain diets, but their effects on the body are still debated.

Research points to both benefits and aspects to be aware of with daily intake, according to EatingWell.

High-quality protein

Soy contains protein that the body uses to build and repair muscles, skin, hair, and tissues, as well as to produce hormones and enzymes.

Tofu and edamame are especially rich in protein

One cup of edamame provides about 18.4 grams of protein, while half a cup of firm tofu provides approximately 21.8 grams.

You can nearly meet your daily protein needs

By eating both edamame and tofu, it is possible to come close to the recommended daily protein intake for an adult.

It may reduce the risk of heart disease

A study published in Circulation found that people who ate tofu at least once a week had an 18 percent lower risk of heart disease.

Your LDL cholesterol may decrease

A daily intake of 25 grams of soy protein for six weeks was associated with a reduction in “bad” LDL cholesterol by 3 to 4 percent, according to a study published in The Journal of Nutrition.

The results are not conclusive

Some studies have not found a clear effect, so there is still debate about soy’s role in lowering cholesterol.

Soy contains little saturated fat

Edamame and tofu contain very low amounts of saturated fat and can therefore serve as alternatives to animal-based proteins.

Isoflavones may affect the body

Soy contains isoflavones, which are natural plant estrogens that can mimic estrogen in the body, although with a weaker effect.

Menopause

A study published in Menopause shows that soy intake may reduce hot flashes in some individuals.

Lower cancer risk

Research published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Research suggests that isoflavones may be associated with a lower risk of certain cancers, such as colorectal cancer.

Soy is the main source of isoflavones

Among all foods, soy contains the highest levels of these plant compounds.

You get isoflavones through typical portions

For every gram of soy protein, you get approximately 3.5 mg of isoflavones, which can quickly add up to a significant amount.

Iron absorption may be lower

Although soy contains iron, it is absorbed less efficiently than iron from animal sources.

Vegetarians may have lower iron stores

People who primarily follow a plant-based diet may have a higher risk of iron deficiency, according to a study published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition.

You may need to consume more iron

Vegetarians and vegans are advised to consume up to 1.8 times more iron than people who eat meat.

Large amounts of soy are not enough on their own

It can be difficult to meet your full iron needs with soy alone, so dietary variety is important.

More research is still needed

Although soy has several potential benefits, uncertainty remains, and further studies are necessary.

Sources: EatingWell, Circulation, The Journal of Nutrition, Menopause, Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, and Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition.

New research: Cooking may be linked to a lower risk of dementia

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

22. April, 2026

New research: Cooking may be linked to a lower risk of dementia

The brain is influenced by what we do every day. Activities that require planning and memory can help keep the brain active.

This is especially true for tasks that involve thinking several steps ahead.

At the same time, physical activity plays an important role. Research published in JAMA Network Open shows that movement throughout life may be linked to a lower risk of dementia.

Diet also matters. A study published in JAMA Neurology suggests that a lower intake of ultra-processed foods may be beneficial for the brain.

The importance of everyday life

Daily routines can be crucial for both physical and mental health. Being able to manage everyday tasks independently provides structure and can support brain function.

Social activities may also play a role. Spending time with others and sharing experiences can have a positive effect on well-being.

However, it is important to understand that this type of research cannot prove cause and effect.

Lower levels of activity may be both a cause of and a sign of emerging problems.

Cooking

A large study published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health from Japan examined the habits of older adults over six years.

Nearly 11,000 people participated in the study.

The results showed a clear association between cooking at home and a lower risk of dementia. Even cooking just once a week was linked to a reduced risk.

The effect was greatest among individuals with less prior experience in this area.

Sources: Health.com, JAMA Network Open, JAMA Neurology, and Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health.

Your coffee consumption may affect your risk of developing stress

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

22. April, 2026

Your coffee consumption may affect your risk of developing stress

Caffeine does not affect everyone in the same way. Some experience improved focus and calmness, while others feel restless and develop heart palpitations.

Differences in physiology and lifestyle may explain these variations.

People with low tolerance may react negatively even to small amounts. Lack of sleep or drinking coffee on an empty stomach can also worsen symptoms such as nervousness.

Coffee and stress

A large study from The Journal of Affective Disorders followed more than 461,000 individuals over a period of more than 13 years.

During this time, new cases of stress- and mood-related disorders were recorded.

The researchers compared participants’ coffee consumption with their mental health.

However, they emphasize that the study cannot prove direct cause and effect, partly because coffee habits were measured only once.

Possible explanations

Overall, the study found that moderate coffee consumption, two to three cups per day, is associated with a lower risk of stress and mood problems.

Both very low and very high consumption, on the other hand, were associated with a higher risk.

Coffee contains compounds that may affect the brain. Antioxidants can reduce inflammation, and caffeine may increase dopamine levels, which are associated with well-being, according to a study published in Translational Psychiatry.

At the same time, caffeine can reduce feelings of fatigue and enhance mental alertness. In some cases, this may lessen the experience of stress.

Sources: Health.com, The Journal of Affective Disorders, and Psychiatry Research.

Expert insight challenges traditional weight loss advice

Mie Hermansen

22. April, 2026

Expert insight challenges traditional weight loss advice

It often begins quietly. A drop in energy, clothes feeling tighter, and the familiar urge to “fix it” quickly. Many turn to diets, only to end up repeating the same pattern again and again.

According to the Italian Barometer Obesity Report and research cited by epidemiologist Franco Berrino, obesity affects roughly one in seven people worldwide, reports Corriere.

Experts increasingly suggest that strict diets are not the solution. Instead, long-term habits appear to shape how the body manages weight.

A different mindset

Rather than focusing on calories, researchers highlight daily behaviors that influence hunger and metabolism.

One key factor is eating pace. Studies indicate that slower chewing may impact hormones linked to appetite, helping people feel full sooner.

Meal timing is another important element. Evidence suggests that allowing a longer break between dinner and breakfast may support weight control. Eating earlier in the day also seems to align better with the body’s natural rhythms.

What to prioritize

Nutrition research points to quality over restriction. Diets rich in fiber and minimally processed foods are associated with better satiety and metabolic health.

Typical recommendations include:

Vegetables and legumes
Whole grains instead of refined products
Nuts in moderate amounts
Fermented foods

These foods may help regulate appetite and support a healthy gut microbiome, increasingly linked to weight balance.

What to limit

Highly processed foods remain a concern. Studies from Harvard University associate sugary drinks, processed meats, and refined carbohydrates with weight gain over time.

At the same time, high-protein diets are not always the answer. Some findings suggest excessive intake, especially from animal sources, may not support long-term results.

Overall, research points to one conclusion: lasting habits matter more than short-term diets.

How red meat can affect your heart if you eat it often

Mie Hermansen

22. April, 2026

How red meat can affect your heart if you eat it often

Red meat like beef, lamb, and pork is a staple in many diets. In moderation it can be part of a healthy lifestyle, but high intake may have consequences for both the heart and overall health, reports Real Simple.

Red meat includes several types

Red meat covers beef, pork, lamb, mutton, veal, and goat, all of which are commonly used sources of protein.

Red meat is high in protein

It contains a significant amount of protein, making it an efficient way to meet the body’s protein needs.

Contains important nutrients

Depending on the type, red meat provides iron, vitamin B12, and minerals such as zinc and selenium.

Lacks fiber and certain vitamins

It does not contain fiber, antioxidants, or vitamin C, which are typically found in plant-based foods.

Contains high levels of saturated fat

Red meat generally has more saturated fat and less unsaturated fat compared to other animal proteins like fish and poultry.

Raises bad cholesterol

A high intake of saturated fat can increase LDL cholesterol levels by reducing the body’s ability to remove it from the bloodstream.

Can lead to plaque buildup

Elevated LDL cholesterol can result in plaque forming in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Processing increases sodium content

Products like bacon, sausages, and deli meats often contain high amounts of added salt compared to fresh meat.

Sodium can raise blood pressure

High sodium intake causes the body to retain water, increasing blood pressure and putting extra strain on the heart.

Gut bacteria produce TMAO

During digestion, gut bacteria can convert compounds in red meat into TMAO, which is linked to a higher risk of heart disease.

Can affect multiple organs

High consumption may also impact gut health, strain the kidneys, and be associated with metabolic issues.

Recommended intake is limited

Experts suggest limiting red meat to one to three servings per week and balancing intake with other protein sources.

Lululemon investigated for harmful PFAS in sportswear

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

22. April, 2026

Lululemon investigated for harmful PFAS in sportswear

PFAS are a group of chemical substances used in many products such as furniture, packaging, and clothing.

These substances are difficult to break down and are found both in nature and in humans.

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that most people have traces of PFAS in their bodies.

This makes it difficult to assess overall exposure, as the substances come from multiple sources, according to Health.com.

Health and uncertainty

Researchers have not yet reached a consensus on how harmful PFAS are.

A study published in the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology in 2025 points to a link between PFAS in drinking water and certain types of cancer.

However, other studies show varying results, and many are based on animal testing. Therefore, uncertainty remains about the exact risk to humans.

Exposure through the skin from clothing is generally considered less problematic than exposure through food and water, according to experts cited by Health.com.

Investigation of Lululemon

Authorities in Texas are now investigating whether the sportswear brand Lululemon has used these substances in its products.

According to Health.com, the investigation aims to determine whether the company’s products contain PFAS that customers would not expect based on its marketing.

Authorities will also review the company’s internal guidelines, testing methods, and supply chain to assess whether the products meet their own standards.

Lululemon has, according to the same source, denied that its current clothing contains PFAS and states that the substances were previously used only in a small part of the range and have since been phased out.

Consumption and regulation

There are no unified rules in the United States requiring clothing manufacturers to disclose PFAS. However, some states have introduced restrictions, according to Safer States.

Consumers should be aware of products marketed as water-repellent or containing materials such as GORE-TEX and Teflon, as these may contain PFAS.

Sources: Health.com, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology, and Safer States.

Five years without ultra-processed food – here’s how it has affected a family’s health

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

22. April, 2026

Five years without ultra-processed food – here’s how it has affected a family’s health

According to The Guardian, an American family began cutting down on ultra-processed foods around 2021.

This led to a shift in their shopping habits, with a greater focus on purchasing raw ingredients such as fruit, vegetables, and meat.

At the same time, they gradually stopped buying ready-made meals and snacks from the supermarket. Instead, the family began preparing more meals from scratch.

Their own records show that spending on items such as breakfast cereals and pre-made yogurt decreased, while spending on basic ingredients increased.

More time and effort

The new approach required more time in everyday life. Cooking from scratch took longer, and planning became more important.

Experts cited by The Guardian explain that ultra-processed foods are often chosen because they are inexpensive and quick to use.

As a result, they are difficult for many families to do without.

Research published in The Lancet in 2025 also shows that a high intake of these foods is associated with an increased risk of disease.

This makes the topic both relevant and complex.

Health and effects

The family did not experience a sudden or measurable change in health, but their choices were largely based on existing research.

According to The Guardian, the decision was influenced by knowledge of how ultra-processed foods can affect the body over the long term.

Research from The Lancet in 2025 also indicates that a high intake of these foods is linked to increased energy consumption and a higher risk of chronic diseases.

This was a central factor behind the family’s dietary changes.

At the same time, their taste preferences gradually changed. They found that homemade food became more satisfying, while many processed products seemed less appealing.

According to The Guardian, this adjustment occurred over time without conscious effort.

However, this was not a complete transformation.

The family continued to occasionally consume processed products, reflecting that, in practice, health often involves reduction rather than total elimination.

Sources: The Guardian and The Lancet.

How canned sardines can affect your body if you eat them regularly

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

21. April, 2026

How canned sardines can affect your body if you eat them regularly

Canned sardines have become popular as an easy way to include fish in the diet.

They are packed with nutrients and can offer several health benefits, but there are also a few things to be aware of, according to EatingWell.

They are an easy source of fish

Canned sardines are a quick and convenient way to eat fish, as they require little to no preparation and can easily be included in everyday meals.

They contribute to recommended fish intake

Eating 230 to 340 grams of fish per week can provide health benefits, and sardines are one of the options that can help achieve this goal.

The small bones provide extra nutrition

Some sardines contain small bones, which add extra calcium and vitamin D to the diet.

They are highly nutritious

Sardines are a good source of protein, vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, and iron, as well as nearly the full daily requirement of omega-3.

They also contain sodium

Canned sardines can have a high sodium content, which people with high blood pressure should be particularly aware of.

They may contain mercury

Although sardines have a low mercury content, very high intake multiple times per week may increase exposure.

They contain omega-3 fatty acids

Sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to have a positive effect on both heart and brain, according to a study published in Frontiers in Nutrition.

They may strengthen heart health

The omega-3 content in sardines may help protect the heart and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, among other things by improving blood flow.

They may improve cholesterol levels and blood pressure

Participants who ate sardines experienced higher levels of good HDL cholesterol as well as lower triglycerides and blood pressure.

They may reduce inflammation

When the nutrients in sardines work together, they may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.

They may lower the risk of type 2 diabetes

A study published in Clinical Nutrition showed that people with prediabetes had a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes when they included sardines in their diet.

They support bone health

Sardines contain calcium and vitamin D, which are important for strong bones and healthy aging, according to a study published in Nutrients.

They may help heal bones

Research, also published in Nutrients, suggests that nutrients in fish such as sardines may have a positive effect on the healing of bone fractures.

They may support brain function

Omega-3 fatty acids from sardines may improve learning, memory, and blood flow in the brain, according to a study published in Cureus.

They are not suitable for everyone

People with fish allergies or a tendency toward gout should avoid sardines, as they are rich in purines, which can increase uric acid levels.

They can be eaten in many ways

Sardines can be eaten on their own, in salads, in pasta dishes, or as a snack on crackers, making them versatile in the kitchen.

Sources: EatingWell, Frontiers in Nutrition, Clinical Nutrition, Nutrients, and Cureus.

New poll: 61 percent of Americans view Trump as more unpredictable

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

21. April, 2026

New poll: 61 percent of Americans view Trump as more unpredictable

Clear tensions have emerged among Donald Trump’s own supporters. According to USA Today, several former allies have started to criticize him publicly.

The criticism comes from conservative commentators and former officials. At the same time, the White House and Trump’s current supporters reject the criticism and highlight his energy and leadership.

Part of the disagreement concerns foreign policy, particularly military actions in Iran, which have created divisions among his supporters.

Concern among voters

The debate is not limited to politicians. A Reuters/Ipsos poll shows that 61 percent of Americans believe Trump’s behavior has become more unpredictable with age.

The poll also shows that fewer people now view him as mentally sharp compared to before. This applies to both independent voters and some Republicans.

Democrats have used the development to question his ability to serve as president, but proposals to examine his health have been rejected.

Focus on behavior

According to USA Today, it is especially Trump’s way of communicating that is drawing attention.

His statements about war and his activity on social media are being highlighted.

Experts assess that the criticism is unusual because it is now also coming from former supporters and not only from political opponents.

Criticism of Trump’s mental state is increasingly coming from within his own ranks, indicating a growing division within the MAGA movement.

Sources: USA Today and Reuters/Ipsos.

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New study from Sweden

Results over time

High-quality protein

Tofu and edamame are especially rich in protein

You can nearly meet your daily protein needs

It may reduce the risk of heart disease

Your LDL cholesterol may decrease

The results are not conclusive

Soy contains little saturated fat

Isoflavones may affect the body

Menopause

Lower cancer risk

Soy is the main source of isoflavones

You get isoflavones through typical portions

Iron absorption may be lower

Vegetarians may have lower iron stores

You may need to consume more iron

Large amounts of soy are not enough on their own

More research is still needed

The importance of everyday life

Cooking

Coffee and stress

Possible explanations

A different mindset

What to prioritize

What to limit

Red meat includes several types

Red meat is high in protein

Contains important nutrients

Lacks fiber and certain vitamins

Contains high levels of saturated fat

Raises bad cholesterol

Can lead to plaque buildup

Processing increases sodium content

Sodium can raise blood pressure

Gut bacteria produce TMAO

Can affect multiple organs

Recommended intake is limited

Health and uncertainty

Investigation of Lululemon

Consumption and regulation

More time and effort

Health and effects

They are an easy source of fish

They contribute to recommended fish intake

The small bones provide extra nutrition

They are highly nutritious

They also contain sodium

They may contain mercury

They contain omega-3 fatty acids

They may strengthen heart health

They may improve cholesterol levels and blood pressure

They may reduce inflammation

They may lower the risk of type 2 diabetes

They support bone health

They may help heal bones

They may support brain function

They are not suitable for everyone

They can be eaten in many ways

Concern among voters

Focus on behavior

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