Many of the products currently used work best on flat wounds.
They can be difficult to use on deep or irregular injuries, and some are sensitive to heat and moisture, according to Science Daily.
Researchers have therefore developed a powder that can adapt to different types of wounds.
The powder can also be stored for at least two years without losing its effectiveness, even in hot and humid conditions.
Different trials
The powder is made from naturally derived materials. When it comes into contact with blood, it quickly forms a gel that seals the wound.
According to the scientific study published in Advanced Functional Materials, laboratory tests showed that the material is gentle on blood cells and has antibacterial properties.
Animal studies also showed faster wound healing and reduced blood loss compared with existing products.
Can stop bleeding in one second
In the study, the powder was able to stop severe bleeding in about one second by rapidly forming a protective gel over the wound.
The technology was originally developed for use on the battlefield, but researchers believe it could also be be used in ambulances, hospitals, and during natural disasters.
Health experts say the likelihood of infection rises when sea temperatures exceed 20°C, particularly during extended periods of hot summer weather.
As coastal waters continue to warm, cases of bacterial infections could become more common.
Although these infections remain rare, they can be serious in some cases.
Warm water encourages bacterial growth
The bacteria thrive in warm coastal waters with relatively low salinity and are most active during the summer months, especially in July and August.
Health data show that infections occur most frequently among adults aged 65 to 79, although people of any age can be affected.
Who is most at risk?
People with open cuts, wounds, or weakened immune systems are at greater risk because the bacteria can enter the body through damaged skin.
Most infections affect the skin and soft tissue around a wound.
In rare cases, however, the bacteria can spread into the bloodstream, leading to a severe and potentially life-threatening illness.
Health authorities advise anyone who develops a fever, increasing pain, swelling, or severe redness around a wound after swimming in the sea to seek medical attention promptly.
People in higher-risk groups should consider avoiding swimming when sea temperatures rise above 20°C.
If they do enter the water, any cuts or wounds should be properly covered and cleaned thoroughly afterward.
The study, published in the journal Cancer, is based on responses from nearly 664,000 adults in the United States, of whom around 1.6 percent identified as LGBTQ+.
Participants were asked, among other things, whether they had undergone the recommended cancer screenings.
The researchers examined several types of cancer screening. However, they found no significant differences in colorectal cancer screening.
Barriers in the healthcare system
According to the researchers, the differences may be due to barriers within the healthcare system.
They point out that more inclusive language and better training for healthcare professionals could make it easier for more people to participate in screening programs.
The study also notes that alternative methods, such as HPV self-testing for some transgender individuals, may help.
The researchers believe that these measures could improve access to preventive cancer screening.
Lower participation
The results show that lesbian and bisexual women were 16 percent less likely to have undergone breast cancer screening and 8 percent less likely to have received cervical cancer screening than heterosexual women.
The difference was even greater for transgender individuals.
They were 76 percent less likely to have undergone breast cancer screening and 42 percent less likely to have received cervical cancer screening compared with cisgender individuals.
According to the researchers, the findings indicate that inequalities in access to preventive cancer screening persist.
The first years of life are crucial for brain development, and iron is essential for the brain to develop and function normally.
At the same time, researchers are still unable to measure how much iron is available in the brain itself.
Blood tests only show the body’s overall iron levels, Umeå University said in a press release sent to VIA.
The researchers therefore plan to follow up with the same children when they are eight years old to determine whether the findings remain consistent over the longer term.
Researchers urge caution
The study, published in Scientific Reports, included 221 healthy children from Sweden and Poland.
Half of the children received a small daily iron supplement from the age of four to nine months.
The other half received a placebo, a supplement containing no active ingredients.
The researchers emphasize that the findings are not sufficient to recommend iron supplements for all infants.
According to Umeå University, further studies are needed, including research that takes factors such as genetics and upbringing into account.
Effects appeared later
When the children reached the age of three, their behavior was assessed.
The results showed that children who had received iron supplements displayed fewer aggressive and externalizing behavioral problems than those in the placebo group.
The researchers also examined difficulties with concentration and withdrawn behavior.
At the same time, they found that the iron supplements had not reduced the risk of iron deficiency as measured by blood tests.
The findings therefore suggest that iron may influence brain development in ways that cannot be detected through blood tests.
According to chef Lisa Gudberg Ballisager from Denmark, timing within the growing season is important.
She explains that new potatoes harvested later in the season have spent more time in the ground, giving them a richer flavour than the first potatoes to reach the market.
At the same time, prices tend to fall as the season progresses, making them more affordable.
She also notes that new potatoes differ from winter potatoes because they have a milder flavour and a subtle natural sweetness.
Preparation matters
Lisa Gudberg Ballisager recommends leaving the skins on new potatoes.
Instead, they should be washed thoroughly and gently scrubbed clean, as the skins contain both flavour and valuable nutrients.
Place the potatoes in cold, salted water before bringing it to a boil.
They only need to cook for a few minutes, depending on their size, before being left to rest briefly in the hot water. Leaving them in the water for too long can make them soft and watery.
The chef’s advice
Lisa Gudberg Ballisager says this is the ideal time to enjoy new potatoes.
In her view, they offer the best balance of flavour and value at this stage of the season.
For that reason, she believes even people who do not usually choose potatoes should consider giving fresh new potatoes a try.
Fish oil is a major source of omega 3 fatty acids, but research has not reached a clear conclusion about how much fish oil supplements affect blood pressure. Several factors may influence any potential benefit, reports Health.
Omega 3 is known for its heart health benefits
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Fish oil contains omega 3 fatty acids that have long been associated with heart health. They are particularly well known for helping lower triglyceride levels.
Research findings are mixed
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Studies examining fish oil and blood pressure have produced inconsistent results. Some have reported modest reductions in blood pressure, while others have found no meaningful effect.
People with high blood pressure may benefit the most
Photo: Shutterstock.com
A 2022 analysis found that consuming 2 to 3 grams of omega 3 fatty acids per day was associated with a modest reduction in blood pressure. The greatest benefit was observed among people with elevated blood pressure.
Normal blood pressure is usually unchanged
Photo: Shutterstock.com
According to experts, people with normal blood pressure generally experience little or no change in their blood pressure when taking fish oil supplements.
Fish oil may also have side effects
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Fish oil is generally well tolerated, but some people experience a fishy aftertaste or heartburn. More serious concerns that have been reported include a possible increased risk of atrial fibrillation, stroke, elevated LDL cholesterol, and bleeding complications.
Supplements are not regulated like prescription medicines
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Unlike prescription medications, dietary supplements are not reviewed for safety and effectiveness before reaching the market. Experts recommend choosing products that have been tested by an independent third party for quality and accurate labeling.
Food is the preferred source of omega 3
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Experts generally recommend getting omega 3 from food instead of supplements. Good sources include salmon, mackerel, albacore tuna, trout, and sardines, while the American Heart Association recommends eating two 3.5 ounce servings of fatty fish each week.
Fish oil products are not all the same
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Fish oil supplements contain different amounts of the omega 3 fatty acids DHA and EPA. This variation may help explain why studies have produced different results.
The dose may make a difference
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Researchers have tested a wide range of fish oil doses. Some appear to influence blood pressure, while others do not, so the role of dosage remains uncertain.
Fish oil may improve blood vessel function
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Studies that have reported positive effects suggest that fish oil may help blood vessels relax and widen. This could improve how blood vessels function.
Omega 3 may reduce oxidative stress
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Researchers also believe omega 3 fatty acids may reduce oxidative stress. Free radicals can damage cells and are thought to contribute to elevated blood pressure.
Lifestyle has a greater impact
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Experts say healthy eating and lifestyle habits have a greater effect on blood pressure than fish oil supplements. Prioritizing sleep, exercising regularly, limiting sodium and alcohol, and managing stress are all recommended.
Speak with a healthcare professional first
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Before starting a fish oil supplement, it is recommended to consult your doctor or a pharmacist. They can help assess the potential benefits and risks based on your health and any medications you are taking.
Doctors are warning that small and seemingly harmless skin changes could, in some cases, be early signs of skin cancer.
Many people dismiss dry patches, redness, or irritation as minor issues caused by weather, stress, or sensitive skin. Others simply get used to the symptoms and expect them to disappear on their own.
Small warning signs
According to Unilad, Dr. Donald Grant from The Independent Pharmacy said skin cancer can initially resemble common skin conditions.
This includes dry areas, persistent redness on the face, and flaky skin that people often mistake for eczema or psoriasis.
Experts say the problem is that these symptoms can develop gradually over time without being professionally checked.
What doctors notice
Changes around moles are among the signs doctors pay closest attention to. Itching, tenderness, bleeding, or changes in colour and shape can all indicate that something may be wrong.
Skin specialists also stress that skin cancer does not always begin as obvious sores or clearly visible marks. In many cases, it starts subtly and can be difficult to notice.
Because of this, experts recommend paying attention to skin changes that persist, evolve, or repeatedly return over time.
TV personalities Hoda Kotb, Gayle King, and Al Roker often wake up between 3:00 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. They have shared details about their routines in interviews with outlets including The Cut, Parade, and Bon Appétit, according to Health Digest.
Hoda Kotb has explained that she prefers to begin her day calmly with music, water, and time to write down her thoughts. According to Parade, she continued maintaining early mornings even after leaving “Today.”
Gayle King told Bon Appétit that she neither drinks coffee nor eats early in the morning. Instead, she relies on water and consistent morning routines.
Exercise before work
Exercise is also an important part of daily life for several of the hosts.USA Today reported in 2024 that Gayle King often works out early in the morning, combining cardio and strength training.
According to Today.com, Al Roker has also made exercise a regular part of his mornings. He believes it helps create a greater sense of calm throughout the rest of the day.
At the same time, Hoda Kotb spends time meditating and journaling to create mental balance before the workday begins.
No coffee
Although many people associate early mornings with coffee, that is not what keeps these hosts going. Al Roker told Today.com that he drinks kombucha in the morning instead.
What the three hosts have in common is their use of structured routines, exercise, and mental breaks to manage extremely early workdays.
Sources: Health Digest, The Cut, Parade, Bon Appétit, USA Today, and Today.com.
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
Photo: Shutterstock.com
To keep the experiment consistent, only orange sweet potatoes were eaten throughout the week.
Preparation
Photo: Shutterstock.com
The sweet potatoes were baked, mashed, oven-roasted, and cooked in an air fryer to provide some variety.
Suitable for multiple meals
Photo: Shutterstock.com
They were usually eaten with dinner but were also included in breakfast and even blended into smoothies.
Increased energy
Photo: Shutterstock.com
During the week, the dietitian noticed more stable energy levels throughout the afternoon.
Reduced hunger
Photo: Shutterstock.com
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
Photo: Shutterstock
The high fiber content helped keep digestion regular and stable throughout the experiment.
The flavor became repetitive
Photo: Shutterstock.com
By the sixth day, eating the same vegetable every day started to feel somewhat repetitive, although the benefits outweighed the monotony.
Rich in nutrients
Photo: Shutterstock.com
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
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Orange sweet potatoes are a source of beta-carotene, while purple varieties contain anthocyanins. Both act as antioxidants.
May support the immune system
Photo: Shutterstock.com
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
Photo: Shutterstock.com
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
Photo: Shutterstock.com
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
Photo: Shutterstock.com
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
Photo: Shutterstock.com
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.
