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16. June, 2026

Struggling to drink enough water? Try these simple tips

Water plays an important role in the body’s functions, and even mild dehydration can affect energy levels, concentration, and mood.

If you find it difficult to drink enough throughout the day, several simple habits can make it easier, according to Real Simple.

Start the day with a glass of water

Many people wake up slightly dehydrated after a night’s sleep.

Drinking a glass of water first thing in the morning can help restore the body’s fluid balance and provide a positive start to the day.

Make water part of your morning routine

It can be helpful to connect water intake with established morning habits.

Some people choose to drink water before their coffee, while others keep a bottle nearby as they get ready for the day.

Keep water within reach

When a water bottle or glass is visible, it becomes easier to remember to take a sip throughout the day.

Visible reminders can make a significant difference.

Place water in multiple locations

Keeping a water bottle on your desk, in your car, or next to your bed makes it easier to drink water regularly.

The less effort it requires, the easier it becomes to maintain the habit.

Add more flavor to your water

If plain water feels boring, try adding lemon, lime, cucumber, mint, or berries.

This can make drinking enough water more appealing.

Try different beverages

Sparkling water can also contribute to your daily fluid intake.

Unsweetened herbal tea, caffeine-free tea, and moderate amounts of 100 percent fruit juice may also help support hydration.

Set small and realistic goals

Small goals throughout the day can make it easier to stay focused on your fluid intake.

For example, you may aim to drink certain amounts of water by specific times.

Use time markers for motivation

Some people write times on their water bottles or use bottles with built-in time goals.

This can make it easier to spread water intake evenly throughout the day.

Eat fruits and vegetables with high water content

Fluids do not come only from beverages. Cucumbers, tomatoes, berries, oranges, melons, zucchini, and leafy greens also contribute to overall hydration.

Get extra nutrients along with fluids

Water-rich fruits and vegetables provide more than hydration.

They also contain fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Drink water with meals and snacks

Having a glass of water whenever you eat can be a simple way to make hydration a regular part of daily life.

Support digestion with water

Drinking water with meals may support digestion while also helping turn hydration into a natural routine.

Use your phone as a reminder

Mobile reminders can make it easier to remember to drink water consistently throughout the day rather than trying to consume large amounts at once.

Take small sips throughout the day

Regular reminders can help spread fluid intake more evenly across the day, making it easier for the body to stay hydrated.

Why sun rash returns every summer – and here’s how to prevent it

Body

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

16. June, 2026

Why sun rash returns every summer – and here’s how to prevent it

Sun rash often appears as red skin, small bumps, or itchy rashes. It develops on areas of the skin that have been exposed to the sun.

According to Netdoktor, sun rash is most likely caused by the sun’s UVA and UVB rays, which can trigger a localized reaction in the skin.

Anyone can develop sun rash. However, it is more commonly seen in younger women and people with fair skin.

A recurring problem

Sun rash can return every summer. During the winter months, the condition is usually dormant.

According to Netdoktor, sun rash typically disappears after the age of 40 or 50.

The skin may react strongly in the spring because it has had limited exposure to sunlight during the winter months.

For this reason, it can help to gradually acclimatize the skin to the sun through short periods of exposure.

How to treat sun rash

Thi Lisa Le, a pharmacist at Apopro, explains that sun rash can develop quickly. Even a short period in the sun without protection may be enough to trigger it.

If you have already developed sun rash, it may take four to seven days to heal if you stay out of the sun.

The most important step is therefore to avoid exposing the affected area to sunlight, cover the skin with clothing, and use a sunscreen appropriate for the day’s UV index.

Sunscreen should be applied several times throughout the day, as its effectiveness decreases over time.

In cases of severe symptoms, over-the-counter medications such as antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream may be used.

Warning labels and ad restrictions led to fewer overweight children

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

16. June, 2026

Warning labels and ad restrictions led to fewer overweight children

Many countries have attempted to combat obesity through individual initiatives, such as taxes on soft drinks, HealthDay reports.

Now, new research suggests that a comprehensive approach may be more effective.

The study, published in the scientific journal The Lancet, indicates that several different regulations can work together to produce better results.

Stricter regulations

In 2016, Chile introduced a law designed to make it easier for consumers to choose healthier foods.

Products high in sugar, salt, saturated fat, or calories were required to carry clear warning labels on their packaging.

At the same time, the sale of unhealthy products was restricted in schools, and advertising aimed at children was banned.

According to the researchers, the regulations were further tightened in 2018 and 2019, but those changes were not included in the current analysis.

Fewer overweight children

The researchers analyzed data from more than 300,000 Chilean schoolchildren between the ages of four and six.

They compared trends before and after the law was introduced.

The results showed that the risk of overweight or obesity declined within the first 18 months.

The risk was reduced by 2.9 percent among girls and 2.4 percent among boys.

The researchers believe that even small improvements can have a significant impact later in life.

Childhood obesity is associated with a higher risk of conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease, according to The Lancet.

New study links joint pain supplement to higher dementia risk

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

16. June, 2026

New study links joint pain supplement to higher dementia risk

Researchers from the University of Florida examined data from thousands of patients with memory problems and dementia.

At the same time, they analyzed brain tissue and conducted experiments on mice.

The study, published in Nature Metabolism, found that a specific biological process was more active in brains affected by Alzheimer’s disease.

The process involves how sugar molecules bind to proteins in the brain. According to the researchers, this activity may contribute to worsening the disease.

Analysis of patient data

The researchers reviewed anonymized medical records from the period 2012 to 2024.

They compared individuals with mild cognitive impairment to those who had already developed dementia.

The results showed that people with mild cognitive impairment had a higher risk of later developing dementia if they used the dietary supplement examined by the researchers.

Experiments in mice also showed that increased activity in the biological process was associated with poorer memory.

The dietary supplement

Only after completing the other analyses did the researchers turn their attention to glucosamine, a dietary supplement that many people use for joint pain.

According to the study, the use of glucosamine was associated with a 25 percent higher risk of people with mild cognitive impairment developing dementia.

Among individuals who already had a dementia-related illness, the researchers also observed a 25 percent higher risk of mortality.

However, the researchers emphasize that the study only shows an association. It does not prove that glucosamine causes the development of dementia.

Further research is therefore needed before any firm conclusions can be drawn.

These foods can affect your medication

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

16. June, 2026

Many people ask their doctor whether medications can be taken together, but fewer consider that food and drinks can also play a role.

Certain common foods can change how the body absorbs or breaks down prescription medications, according to AARP.

Grapefruit and statins

Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can affect the breakdown of several cholesterol-lowering statins.

This can lead to higher concentrations of the medication in the bloodstream.

Dairy products and antibiotics

Milk, cheese, and yogurt contain calcium, which can make it more difficult for the body to absorb certain antibiotics such as doxycycline, minocycline, and ciprofloxacin. This may reduce the treatment’s effectiveness against infections.

Tyramine-rich foods

Smoked and cured meats, aged cheeses, fermented foods, soy products, and very ripe bananas contain tyramine.

These foods can cause problems for people who use MAO inhibitors.

Risk of high blood pressure

The combination of MAO inhibitors and tyramine can cause blood pressure to rise suddenly and significantly.

For this reason, it is often recommended to avoid these foods during treatment.

Licorice and prescription medications

Black licorice contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that can affect blood pressure and heart rhythm.

Licorice may also worsen side effects associated with medications such as blood pressure drugs, blood thinners, and MAO inhibitors.

Potassium-rich foods and ACE inhibitors

Bananas, avocados, tomatoes, and dried apricots are rich in potassium.

When combined with certain ACE inhibitors used to treat high blood pressure, they can increase potassium levels in the body.

Effects on the heart

Excessive potassium levels can, in some cases, lead to irregular heart rhythms.

As a result, limiting large amounts of potassium-rich foods is often recommended.

Fruit juice and medication

Apple juice, orange juice, and grapefruit juice can affect the effectiveness of certain blood pressure medications.

Some of these beverages can reduce the amount of medication absorbed by the body.

Allergy medications can also be affected

Acidic juices may also reduce the absorption of antihistamines such as fexofenadine.

This can make the medication less effective in controlling allergy symptoms.

High-fiber diets and medications

Photo: Ilustration Welltica and Shutterstock.com

Foods high in fiber, including walnuts and products made with soy flour, can make it more difficult for the body to properly absorb levothyroxine and digoxin.

Green vegetables and warfarin

Vegetables such as spinach, kale, broccoli, and cabbage contain high amounts of vitamin K.

This can affect blood-thinning medications such as warfarin and reduce the drug’s ability to prevent blood clots.

Consistent intake is important

Experts do not necessarily recommend avoiding these vegetables altogether.

Instead, maintaining a consistent and steady intake of vitamin K may help keep the medication’s effects stable.

More side effects

When medication accumulates in the body, the risk of side effects can increase.

Muscle pain is among the possible problems associated with this combination.

New research: Two people can absorb different numbers of calories from the same food

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

16. June, 2026

New research: Two people can absorb different numbers of calories from the same food

Inside the body, food is not processed solely by our own organs. It also interacts with microorganisms in the gut, which can influence how much energy the body ultimately absorbs.

Researchers have therefore developed a model called DAMM.

It tracks food through the digestive system and calculates what the body absorbs, what reaches the colon, and what gut bacteria do with the remainder.

Two types of diet

The study, published in PLOS ONE and reported by SciTechDaily, was based on a controlled trial involving healthy adults.

Participants were given either a high-fiber diet with less processed food or a more Western-style diet containing a greater proportion of processed foods.

The model showed that gut bacteria can produce short-chain fatty acids, which the body can also use as a source of energy.

According to the researchers, these compounds contributed an average of about 140 calories per day.

Fewer calories

Participants following the Western-style diet absorbed approximately 116 more calories per day than those on the high-fiber diet.

This occurred even though the high-fiber diet led to greater activity among gut bacteria.

The findings suggest that the gut may play an important role in determining how many calories the body actually obtains from food.

Why most people struggle to stick with exercise

Mie Hermansen

16. June, 2026

Why most people struggle to stick with exercise

Many people believe staying fit comes down to discipline, but researchers say the real answer may be something entirely different.

You know the feeling. A new workout routine begins with enthusiasm, fresh goals, and a genuine belief that this time will be different. Then a few weeks pass, life gets busy, motivation fades, and those running shoes stay by the door.

It’s a pattern experienced by millions every year. According to research reviewed by science writer Vijay Kumar Malesu and assessed by researcher Benedette Cuffari, the reason often has far less to do with willpower than most people think, reports News Medical.

Looking for answers

For decades, health advice has focused on explaining why exercise is important. Yet researchers increasingly suggest that knowledge alone rarely leads to lasting behavioral change.

Instead, people are more likely to stay active when exercise provides immediate value. That could be the boost in energy after a walk, the enjoyment of a favorite sport, or the satisfaction that comes from seeing progress.

Studies involving gym members have also found that individuals who maintain consistent exercise habits often share two characteristics: confidence in their ability to stick with a routine and support from people around them.

The body remembers

Even small experiences during a workout can shape future behavior. A positive session can create anticipation for the next one, while exhaustion or frustration may discourage future participation.

Researchers also note that people respond differently to physical activity. Some quickly experience increased energy and improved mood, while others face greater fatigue or slower recovery. These differences may help explain why the same workout plan works well for one person but not another.

What really works

The evidence suggests that long-term habits are rarely built through strict rules or constant self-pressure. Instead, they tend to develop when physical activity fits naturally into everyday life.

Supportive social environments, flexible routines, and realistic goals appear to significantly improve the chances of long-term success.

Rather than forcing yourself through workouts you dislike, researchers suggest that finding an activity you genuinely enjoy may be one of the most effective strategies for staying active.

How to treat your sunburned skin properly

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

15. June, 2026

How to treat your sunburned skin properly

Sunburn is damage to the skin caused by excessive exposure to the sun.

The condition can often be treated at home and usually improves within seven days, according to the NHS.

What is sunburn?

Sunburn is skin damage caused by too much sun exposure. In most cases, the symptoms can be managed at home.

Skin may feel hot

One of the common signs of sunburn is that the skin feels hot to the touch.

Tenderness and pain in the skin

Sunburned skin can become tender and painful in the days following sun exposure.

Peeling may occur later

The skin may begin to peel several days after becoming sunburned.

Severe sunburn can cause blisters

In cases of severe sunburn, blisters may develop on the skin.

Skin color may change differently

In people with fair skin, sunburn often causes the skin to become red or pink. In people with brown or black skin, color changes may not be visible.

Get out of the sun immediately

It is recommended to move out of the sun as soon as possible to limit further damage to the skin.

Cool the skin gently

A cool shower, bath, or damp towel can help relieve discomfort. However, young children should not become too cold.

Use a moisturizer

After-sun products or an unscented moisturizer may help soothe the skin.

Drink plenty of fluids

It is recommended to avoid alcohol and drink plenty of water to cool the body and reduce the risk of dehydration.

Pain relief may help

Paracetamol or ibuprofen can be used to relieve pain if taken according to the instructions provided with the medication.

Protect the skin while it heals

Sunburned skin should be covered and kept out of direct sunlight until it has fully healed.

Avoid products containing petroleum jelly

Petroleum jelly should not be applied to sunburned skin.

Do not apply ice directly to the skin

Ice or ice packs should not be placed directly on sunburned areas.

Leave blisters alone

Blisters should not be popped, as this can worsen the condition.

Avoid picking at the skin

Peeling skin should not be scratched or removed.

Tight clothing can worsen discomfort

Tight-fitting clothing over sunburned areas should be avoided.

A pharmacist can provide advice

A pharmacist can offer guidance on treating sunburn and assess whether there is a need to contact a doctor.

When should you seek help?

Urgent medical advice is recommended if you experience blistered or swollen skin, a very high temperature, chills, extreme tiredness, dizziness, nausea, headaches, muscle cramps, or if a baby or young child has become sunburned.

Serious complications can occur

Severe sunburn can lead to heat exhaustion and heatstroke, both of which can be very serious conditions.

Sunburn increases the risk of skin cancer

Experiencing sunburn can increase the risk of developing skin cancer.

Tap water or bottled water? This is the difference for your health

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

15. June, 2026

Tap water or bottled water? This is the difference for your health

When you fill a glass from the tap, it is usually the better choice for the climate.

According to German media outlet SWR, bottled water generates significantly more CO₂ emissions than tap water.

This is partly due to the production of bottles and the transportation required to deliver them to stores.

Single-use bottles and heavy glass bottles, in particular, have a greater environmental impact than reusable plastic bottles.

A noticeable difference for your budget

There is also a clear difference in cost. According to SWR, tap water costs less than €0.05 per litre on average.

Low-cost bottled water costs around €0.20 per litre, while well-known brands are often even more expensive.

For people who drink around 1.5 litres of water per day, this can add up to several hundred euros in extra expenses each year.

Not always the same choice

In some countries, both tap water and mineral water are considered safe to drink.

For most people, essential minerals can be obtained through a normal and varied diet.

As a result, there is often no need to buy mineral water for that reason alone.

However, SWR notes that mineral water may offer benefits in certain cases. This includes pregnant women, older adults, and people who do not consume dairy products.

In these situations, mineral water with a high calcium content can help meet part of the body’s calcium requirements.

Your bedroom mirror could be ruining your sleep

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

15. June, 2026

Your bedroom mirror could be ruining your sleep

Poor sleep is often linked to stress, phone use, or excessive caffeine consumption, but according to sleep experts cited by Lrytas, the bedroom itself may also play a role.

A cool, dark, and quiet room can help the body relax and prepare for sleep.

Harvard Medical School highlights that reducing distractions around bedtime can support better sleep.

When you can’t fall asleep

If you do not fall asleep within 15 to 20 minutes, experts recommend getting up briefly and doing something calming.

This could include reading a book or listening to quiet music.

The Sleep Foundation advises against forcing yourself to sleep. The harder you try, the more active your brain may become.

The brain stays alert

The brain can still detect light and movement, even while you are asleep.

Small flashes, shadows, or changes in the room can therefore make sleep lighter, according to Harvard Medical School.

For this reason, experts recommend minimizing visual distractions in the bedroom.

The overlooked factor

According to sleep expert Charlie Davis, cited by Lrytas, mirrors positioned opposite the bed may be a possible cause of poor sleep.

Mirrors can reflect light and movement from windows, passing cars, streetlights, or people outside.

This may create stimulation for the brain and make it more difficult for the body to fully relax.

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Start the day with a glass of water

Make water part of your morning routine

Keep water within reach

Place water in multiple locations

Add more flavor to your water

Try different beverages

Set small and realistic goals

Use time markers for motivation

Eat fruits and vegetables with high water content

Get extra nutrients along with fluids

Drink water with meals and snacks

Support digestion with water

Use your phone as a reminder

Take small sips throughout the day

A recurring problem

How to treat sun rash

Stricter regulations

Fewer overweight children

Analysis of patient data

The dietary supplement

Grapefruit and statins

Dairy products and antibiotics

Tyramine-rich foods

Risk of high blood pressure

Licorice and prescription medications

Potassium-rich foods and ACE inhibitors

Effects on the heart

Fruit juice and medication

Allergy medications can also be affected

High-fiber diets and medications

Green vegetables and warfarin

Consistent intake is important

More side effects

Two types of diet

Fewer calories

Looking for answers

The body remembers

What really works

What is sunburn?

Skin may feel hot

Tenderness and pain in the skin

Peeling may occur later

Severe sunburn can cause blisters

Skin color may change differently

Get out of the sun immediately

Cool the skin gently

Use a moisturizer

Drink plenty of fluids

Pain relief may help

Protect the skin while it heals

Avoid products containing petroleum jelly

Do not apply ice directly to the skin

Leave blisters alone

Avoid picking at the skin

Tight clothing can worsen discomfort

A pharmacist can provide advice

When should you seek help?

Serious complications can occur

Sunburn increases the risk of skin cancer

A noticeable difference for your budget

Not always the same choice

When you can’t fall asleep

The brain stays alert

The overlooked factor

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