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She took cold showers every morning for a week – here’s how it affected her

27. July, 2026

She took cold showers every morning for a week – here’s how it affected her

Cold showers have become popular on social media, but do they actually work?

A writer from Verywell Mind tested daily cold showers for one week and noticed several changes along the way.

She completed a week-long experiment

The writer decided to end her morning shower with cold water every day for seven days to see whether it would affect her mood, energy levels, and concentration.

Experts recommended a gentle start

Before beginning the experiment, she spoke with experts, who recommended ending a warm shower with about 30 seconds of cold water before gradually increasing the duration over time.

The first day was a shock

The cold water felt extremely uncomfortable, but afterward she felt more awake, mentally sharp, and ready to tackle the day’s tasks.

She adapted quickly

By the second day, she was much less apprehensive about the cold water and noticed greater mental clarity after her shower.

The routine proved important

One day, she forgot to finish with the cold rinse and had to step back into the shower.

The experience made her realize that it was much easier to stick with the habit when it became a regular part of her morning routine.

It helped on a bad day

Midway through the week, she woke up in a bad mood but found that the 30 seconds of cold water shifted her attention away from negative thoughts and gave her a mental reset.

The research is still limited

According to the experts, there is some evidence that cold showers may help support mood regulation, but large, high-quality studies are still lacking.

She felt less stressed

Toward the end of the week, the writer noticed lower stress levels.

She also referred to research published in Current Psychology, which suggests that cold exposure combined with breathing exercises may reduce perceived stress.

More energy and focus

After one week, she did not experience the same jittery feeling often associated with coffee. Instead, she felt more focused, alert, and ready to work.

A small daily victory

She described it as motivating to accomplish something challenging every morning, giving her a greater sense of confidence and mental resilience.

Possible benefits

According to Verywell Mind, experts say cold showers may increase alertness, focus, and mental clarity.

Cold exposure may also activate the body’s stress response and increase levels of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine.

Not everyone should try it

Experts stress that cold showers are not suitable for everyone.

People with cardiovascular conditions or certain mental health disorders should exercise caution, and researchers continue to call for more comprehensive studies in this area.

Skin problems may be affecting more than your appearance

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

27. July, 2026

Skin problems may be affecting more than your appearance

Both physical ailments and mental health fluctuations are widespread issues.

Medical science has traditionally treated physical symptoms and psychological distress as two separate areas.

However, new research published in Immediate Communication suggests that there is an unexpected connection within the body.

Signaling pathways inside the body

When a person experiences stress, the body releases chemicals such as cortisol and adrenaline.

These substances affect the body’s protective barriers and increase oil production in the skin.

Figures from BJD show that 30% of people with long-term skin conditions also struggle with anxiety or depression.

Researcher Mariana Ramirez Posada explains that signals in the nervous system travel in both directions at the same time, with the brain sending messages to the skin while also receiving chemical responses in return.

Inflammation in the bloodstream

When prolonged irritation develops in the skin, the body produces special signaling molecules.

These molecules are called cytokines, and they are carried through the bloodstream to the brain.

In the brain, they influence the mechanisms that regulate mood, sleep, and stress, including neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine.

The new study analyzed hundreds of proteins in blood samples collected from patients.

Professor Mohammad Jafferany of Central Michigan University points out that the relationship between skin conditions and mental well-being is not merely psychological but deeply biological.

Conditions such as acne and eczema do not trigger psychological reactions solely because of their appearance.

Instead, skin disorders and psychological symptoms are directly linked through the immune system and proteins in the bloodstream.

Goodbye to cavities? New gel shows promising results

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

27. July, 2026

Goodbye to cavities? New gel shows promising results

Tooth enamel protects teeth from wear, acids, and temperature changes.

Once enamel is lost, the body cannot naturally regenerate it.

As a result, enamel damage can lead to cavities, tooth sensitivity, and, in severe cases, tooth loss.

According to ScienceDaily, dental diseases affect nearly half of the world’s population.

Current treatments can strengthen the remaining enamel, but they cannot restore enamel that has already been lost.

New method

Researchers at the University of Nottingham have developed a fluoride-free gel that mimics the natural process by which enamel forms in young children.

The gel is applied to the tooth, where it fills small areas of damage and uses calcium and phosphate from saliva to build a new mineral layer.

According to the study, published in the journal Nature Communications, the new layer bonds with the existing tooth structure instead of simply sitting on top of it.

Could become the treatment of the future

The researchers tested the material under conditions designed to replicate everyday toothbrushing, chewing, and exposure to acidic foods.

The results showed that the new surface behaves in the same way as healthy tooth enamel.

The study also suggests that the gel could help people with sensitive teeth by forming a protective layer over exposed dentin.

The research team is now working to develop the gel into a commercial product through the company Mintech-Bio.

If further development and regulatory approval proceed as expected, the technology could offer a new way to repair damaged tooth enamel.

Low iron levels during blood donor screening revealed cancer

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

27. July, 2026

Low iron levels during blood donor screening revealed cancer

Laura Jackson from Southampton wanted to donate blood but was turned away because her iron levels were too low.

According to the Express, her doctor referred her for further tests to determine the cause.

Two FIT tests detected signs of hidden blood in her stool. This led to endoscopic examinations of both her bowel and stomach.

Few warning signs

Laura did not have the most common symptoms of bowel cancer. She experienced neither blood in her stool nor persistent stomach problems, the Express reports.

She often felt tired but believed it was due to her busy life balancing work and raising two young children.

From time to time, she also experienced severe stomach pain and diarrhoea, but it occurred so infrequently that she did not think much of it.

A large tumour

The examinations eventually revealed a five-centimetre tumour in her colon.

Laura was diagnosed with bowel cancer and underwent surgery in July 2025 to remove around one-third of her colon, according to the Express.

Following a tissue analysis, the cancer was classified as stage 3 because there were signs that it had begun to spread.

She therefore received four rounds of chemotherapy over a period of 12 weeks.

According to the Express, there are currently no signs of active disease. However, she will continue to attend follow-up appointments over the next five years.

Laura hopes that her story will encourage others to take unexplained symptoms seriously and speak to their doctor if something does not feel right.

How to stay hydrated and protect your body in the summer heat

Body

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

27. July, 2026

How to stay hydrated and protect your body in the summer heat

When temperatures rise during a heatwave, maintaining a good fluid balance is crucial for your health.

Here are the most important tips to avoid dehydration and take care of yourself in the heat, according to Healthline.

Increase your fluid intake in the heat

Women should normally drink nine cups of fluid a day and men 13 cups, but in warm weather, this amount should be increased because the body sweats more.

Drink continuously throughout the day

Do not wait to drink until you feel thirsty, as thirst is already a sign that your body is lacking fluids.

Set reminders on your phone

If you forget to drink water, you can set fixed time goals or use an app with notifications to remind you.

Carry a reusable bottle with you

It is easier to reach your daily hydration goal if you always have a reusable water bottle on hand and refill it regularly.

Choose the right water bottle

Consider size, material such as plastic or steel, as well as the type of lid and insulation, so the bottle suits your needs in the heat.

Eat your way to more hydration

About 20 percent of your daily fluid intake comes from food, so you can increase your intake by eating juicy foods.

Choose water-rich fruits and vegetables

Foods such as watermelon, strawberries, cucumber, lettuce, bell peppers, tomatoes, and oranges have a very high water content.

Supplement with soup and yogurt

You can also increase your fluid intake through liquid or soft dishes such as cold soups, broths, and yogurt.

Replenish your body’s electrolytes

When you sweat heavily, you lose essential minerals like potassium, sodium, magnesium, and calcium, which regulate the nervous system and muscles.

Use electrolyte powder or coconut water

You can quickly restore mineral balance by adding electrolyte powder to your water or drinking coconut water, which is rich in potassium.

Make your water more flavorful

Drinking water does not have to be boring. You can add slices of citrus fruits, berries, cucumber, herbal tea, or sugar-free flavor drops.

Know the signs of dehydration

Pay attention to a dry mouth, headaches, fatigue, dizziness, dark urine, and reduced urge to urinate, and seek medical attention for severe symptoms such as confusion or a rapid heart rate.

New research: Longer parental leave may benefit fathers’ mental health

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

27. July, 2026

New research: Longer parental leave may benefit fathers’ mental health

Researchers followed 746 Swedish fathers over an 18-month period. The study, published in the American Journal of Public Health, began when their children were around nine months old and ended when they were approximately 27 months old.

The fathers completed questionnaires about their mental well-being at the beginning and the end of the study.

They also reported how long they had been on parental leave. According to the Karolinska Institute cited by Forskning.se, the researchers took several factors into account, including the family’s circumstances, financial situation, and the mothers’ parental leave.

The results should be interpreted with caution

The researchers emphasize that this is an observational study.

Therefore, it cannot determine whether longer parental leave is the direct cause of fewer depressive symptoms.

In addition, the information about the fathers’ parental leave was based on their self-reported responses, which may have influenced the findings.

A clear association

The study found that fathers who took between 14 and 40 weeks of parental leave had a lower risk of depressive symptoms than fathers who took four weeks or less.

The same association was not found among fathers who took five to 13 weeks of leave or more than 40 weeks of leave.

According to the Karolinska Institute, the researchers believe that spending a longer period at home may help fathers feel more confident in their parenting role, strengthen their relationship with their child, and establish better daily routines.

More young adults are choosing AI over the dentist

Mie Hermansen

27. July, 2026

More young adults are choosing AI over the dentist

Artificial intelligence is becoming a go-to source for health information, with many people asking chatbots about symptoms before contacting a healthcare professional. While AI can provide quick answers, dental experts say it should never replace a proper examination.

A new survey from Denmark highlights how rapidly those habits are changing. The research, conducted by Bilendi on behalf of Danish dental provider Godt Smil, found that more people are relying on search engines and AI tools such as ChatGPT instead of speaking with a dentist when dental problems arise, reports B.T.

Young adults lead the shift

The survey found that 14.6% of respondents had used Google or AI rather than contacting a dentist after experiencing dental symptoms during the past year.

The trend was even stronger among people aged 16 to 34, where 26.6% said they had turned to digital tools first. According to the researchers, the findings reflect a generation that increasingly expects immediate answers through technology.

Why experts are concerned

Dental professionals say AI can be useful for explaining symptoms or treatments in general terms, but it cannot diagnose oral health conditions.

It cannot examine a patient’s mouth, take X-rays or detect problems that may not be visible without a clinical assessment.

Experts warn that relying on AI alone could delay treatment, allowing minor dental issues to develop into more serious conditions that are harder and more expensive to treat.

AI still has a role

Despite those concerns, dentists believe artificial intelligence can improve patient education when used appropriately.

It can explain dental procedures in simple language.
It may help reduce anxiety before a dental appointment.
It should support professional care, not replace it.

Experts say the findings reflect a broader challenge as AI becomes increasingly popular for health-related questions. While chatbots can help people better understand dental care, persistent pain or unusual symptoms should always be assessed by a qualified dental professional.

Cardiologist highlights four foods that could help lower cholesterol

Mie Hermansen

26. July, 2026

Cardiologist highlights four foods that could help lower cholesterol

Many people only think about their cholesterol after a routine blood test reveals a problem. Yet the food choices made every day may influence heart health long before any warning signs appear.

According to research from the University of Cambridge, published in Nature, high cholesterol early in life may increase the risk of developing atherosclerosis later on, reports Mirror.

Heart specialists from HCA Healthcare UK say that improving your diet is one of the most effective ways to support long-term cardiovascular health.

Healthy habits matter

Cholesterol is a natural substance the body needs, but excessive levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, can contribute to fatty deposits inside the arteries. Over time, this can reduce blood flow and raise the risk of heart disease and stroke.

The Cambridge study found that repeated periods of a cholesterol-rich diet during early life may have lasting effects on artery health.

Researchers also highlighted findings from the Young Finns Study, which linked elevated cholesterol in childhood with greater plaque build-up in adulthood.

Four foods to prioritise

Heart specialists recommend building meals around:

Fruit and vegetables
Whole grains
Lean sources of protein
Healthy fats such as nuts, avocados and olive oil

At the same time, limiting fatty meats, fried foods and highly processed products high in saturated or trans fats may help improve cholesterol levels.

A complete approach

Diet is only one part of maintaining a healthy heart. Regular exercise, avoiding smoking and monitoring cholesterol levels are also important steps in reducing long-term cardiovascular risk.

Because high cholesterol rarely causes noticeable symptoms, experts say prevention is the best strategy. Developing healthier habits early may lower the risk of serious heart and circulatory diseases later in life.

Does summer give you longer hair? Research has the answer

Body

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

26. July, 2026

Does summer give you longer hair? Research has the answer

Hair grows in a natural cycle that includes periods of growth, rest, and shedding.

How quickly hair grows depends primarily on genetics, diet, illness, and hormones.

That is according to dermatologist Elizabeth Bahar Houshmand, speaking to Popular Science.

She also explains that factors such as iron deficiency, illness, and stress can lead to increased hair loss.

The sun is not the solution

Many people believe that more sunlight and higher temperatures make hair grow faster.

According to Popular Science, however, there is only limited research supporting that theory.

Although sunlight increases the body’s production of vitamin D, there is no strong evidence that additional vitamin D leads to faster hair growth in people with normal vitamin D levels.

Hair growth is primarily controlled by processes within the hair follicles and the body’s overall health, Popular Science reports.

The results are surprising

Several scientific studies have examined whether the seasons influence hair growth.

Two small studies published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that the highest number of scalp hairs were in the resting phase toward the end of the summer.

At the same time, men’s beards grew slightly faster during the summer months, but the difference was so small that it was barely noticeable.

A larger study involving 823 women, published in the journal Dermatology, found the same pattern.

Overall, the research suggests that scalp hair does not grow faster during the summer.

On the contrary, the findings indicate that a greater proportion of hairs are in the resting phase at this time of year, according to Popular Science.

New study suggests why coffee may support healthy aging

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

25. July, 2026

New study suggests why coffee may support healthy aging

For many years, studies have shown that people who drink coffee tend to have a lower risk of several diseases and may live longer, according to ScienceDaily.

However, researchers have not known exactly why coffee appears to be linked to these health benefits.

A new study from Texas A&M University examined what happens inside the body’s cells. The findings have been published in the scientific journal Nutrients.

Not just caffeine

The researchers found that caffeine is probably not the most important factor.

Instead, other naturally occurring compounds in coffee appear to affect a receptor in the body known as NR4A1.

According to the researchers, this receptor plays a role in helping the body manage inflammation, repair damage, and protect cells.

The study also found that some plant-based compounds in coffee influence the receptor more strongly than caffeine.

This may explain why both regular coffee and decaffeinated coffee have been linked to similar health benefits in previous studies.

A possible explanation

In laboratory experiments, the researchers observed that cells sustained less damage when the receptor was activated. When the receptor was removed, the protective effect disappeared.

The researchers therefore believe they may have identified an important part of the explanation for why coffee is often associated with healthy aging and a lower risk of disease.

At the same time, they emphasize that the study does not prove that coffee can prevent disease in humans and that further research is needed.

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She completed a week-long experiment

Experts recommended a gentle start

The first day was a shock

She adapted quickly

The routine proved important

It helped on a bad day

The research is still limited

She felt less stressed

More energy and focus

A small daily victory

Possible benefits

Not everyone should try it

Signaling pathways inside the body

Inflammation in the bloodstream

New method

Could become the treatment of the future

Few warning signs

A large tumour

Increase your fluid intake in the heat

Drink continuously throughout the day

Set reminders on your phone

Carry a reusable bottle with you

Choose the right water bottle

Eat your way to more hydration

Choose water-rich fruits and vegetables

Supplement with soup and yogurt

Replenish your body’s electrolytes

Use electrolyte powder or coconut water

Make your water more flavorful

Know the signs of dehydration

The results should be interpreted with caution

A clear association

Young adults lead the shift

Why experts are concerned

AI still has a role

Healthy habits matter

Four foods to prioritise

A complete approach

The sun is not the solution

The results are surprising

Not just caffeine

A possible explanation

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