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Early signs of kidney disease you should be aware of

23. April, 2026

Kidney disease can be difficult to detect because the symptoms are often mild and nonspecific, according to Prevention.

As a result, the condition is often discovered late, even though it is widespread and serious.

The symptoms are often very subtle

Signs of kidney damage are usually so mild that they are only noticed at a late stage, when significant damage may already have occurred.

You can lose most of your kidney function without noticing

It is possible to lose up to 90 percent of kidney function without clear symptoms, making early detection difficult.

Several important functions

The kidneys filter the blood, regulate blood pressure, contribute to strong bones, and support the production of red blood cells.

Diabetes and high blood pressure increase the risk

The two most common causes of kidney disease are diabetes and high blood pressure, and a large proportion of patients with these conditions develop kidney problems.

Regular blood tests

An annual blood test can reveal elevated levels of the waste product creatinine, which may lead to further examinations such as urine tests or scans.

Certain types of medication can harm the kidneys

Some medications can be harmful to the kidneys, including certain painkillers, antibiotics, and drugs containing lithium or iodine.

Swollen ankles

If the kidneys are not functioning properly, fluid can build up in the body and cause swelling, especially in the feet, ankles, and legs.

Reduced urination

When fluid is retained in the body, it can lead to urinating less than usual, even if fluid intake remains the same.

Fatigue

Kidney problems can affect hemoglobin levels and lead to anemia, which can cause fatigue and weakness.

Nausea and reduced appetite

A buildup of waste products in the body can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and a lack of appetite.

High blood pressure

Damaged kidneys have more difficulty regulating blood pressure, and at the same time, high blood pressure can worsen kidney damage.

Heart palpitations

A buildup of potassium in the body can lead to an irregular or rapid heart rhythm.

Difficulty concentrating

Waste products in the blood can affect the brain and lead to problems with memory, focus, and clear thinking.

Sources: Prevention.

Common drugs show new promise against fatty liver

Mie Hermansen

23. April, 2026

Common drugs show new promise against fatty liver

You don’t always feel it happening. A bit of fatigue, maybe some weight gain, and life goes on.

But beneath the surface, your liver could be storing more fat than it should, quietly increasing long-term health risks.

According to the University of Barcelona, researchers are now exploring a new way to tackle this widespread issue using medications that are already on the market, according to Science Daily.

A growing threat

Fatty liver disease, now affecting around one in three adults, develops when excess fat accumulates in liver cells.

Over time, this can lead to serious complications, including a higher risk of heart disease.

With limited treatment options available, scientists have been searching for alternatives that are both effective and safe, especially in the early stages when symptoms are often absent.

An unexpected pairing

Led by Professor Marta Alegret, the research team examined two existing drugs: pemafibrate, used for lipid control, and telmisartan, commonly prescribed for high blood pressure.

Tests on animal models showed that combining the two significantly reduced liver fat caused by unhealthy diets.

Interestingly, using smaller doses together achieved results similar to higher doses of each drug individually.

The combined approach was linked to:

Lower liver fat levels
Improved cholesterol and blood pressure markers
Reduced overall cardiovascular risk

Still early days

The study also suggests the drugs influence different metabolic pathways, which may explain their combined effect. However, the findings are still limited to animal research.

Human trials will be necessary before this approach can be considered for widespread treatment.

Researchers are continuing to investigate whether the same method could help more advanced cases.

Your bedtime may increase the risk of heart disease

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

23. April, 2026

Your bedtime may increase the risk of heart disease

Heart health is often associated with a healthy diet, exercise, and avoiding smoking.

These recommendations are well documented and widely promoted by health organizations, Prevention writes.

Sleep is also mentioned, but it often receives less attention. Most people know it is important to get enough sleep, but fewer consider how consistent routines play a role.

The body’s rhythm

The body operates according to an internal circadian rhythm, which regulates factors such as heart rate, blood pressure, and hormones. This rhythm is closely linked to when we go to bed.

If bedtime varies significantly, it can disrupt the body’s natural balance. This may lead to increased strain on the body and affect factors such as weight and blood pressure.

Over time, such changes can increase the risk of disease, especially if sleep duration also decreases.

New findings

A study from BMC Cardiovascular Disorders followed more than 3,000 individuals over ten years.

Researchers measured participants’ sleep habits and compared them with data on heart disease.

The results showed that individuals with irregular bedtimes had a higher risk of conditions such as heart attacks and strokes.

This remained true even after accounting for other risk factors.

It was particularly fluctuating bedtimes that made a difference, rather than the time people woke up.

Sources: Prevention and BMC Cardiovascular Disorders.

Cocaine residues in water cause salmon to change behavior, new study shows

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

23. April, 2026

Cocaine residues in water cause salmon to change behavior, new study shows

For several years, researchers have detected traces of substances in lakes, rivers, and marine environments.

According to the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences cited by Forskning.se, some chemical compounds pass through wastewater treatment plants and end up in nature.

These substances can be absorbed by animals living in the water. Substances that affect the brain, in particular, can have an impact even in very small amounts.

Pollution is not only about traditional environmental toxins, but also about newer types of chemicals resulting from human activity.

The ecosystem

Animal movement is crucial to survival. It is used to find food, avoid predators, and locate suitable habitats.

If behavior changes, it can affect the entire ecosystem.

For example, it may alter the balance between predators and prey or disrupt how fish are distributed within an area.

Researchers therefore emphasize the need for improved monitoring of these substances and their impact on the environment.

New research findings

A new study from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, published in Current Biology, examined young salmon in Lake Vättern.

The fish were exposed to small amounts of substances derived from cocaine.

The results show that the fish swam longer distances and moved across larger areas than usual.

In particular, a breakdown product, benzoylecgonine, had a significant effect.

Cocaine residues in water can alter fish behavior, demonstrating that this type of pollution is also an environmental issue.

Sources: Forskning.se, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and Current Biology.

How to find the best chicken in the supermarket

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

23. April, 2026

How to find the best chicken in the supermarket

Chicken is a regular part of everyday life for many people. It is easy to prepare and available in virtually every supermarket.

For that very reason, many people choose it without giving it much thought.

According to Petit Chef, the purchase is often made automatically, with shoppers picking the first available product.

Uniform packaging and similar prices make the products appear identical, even though they are not necessarily the same.

Why you might be misled

Many consumers look at the color to assess quality. However, color can vary depending on lighting, packaging, and cut, and therefore does not say much on its own.

Price is also often used as an indicator. However, a higher price may be due to branding or production methods, not necessarily better quality.

According to Petit Chef, these factors can create a false sense of confidence when choosing chicken.

How to choose good chicken

The differences only become clear when the chicken is cooked. Some pieces release a lot of liquid, foam, or change in texture.

This is often linked to the amount of liquid in the packaging, which many people do not notice at the time of purchase.

The liquid can affect both taste and texture. A more attentive approach in the supermarket can therefore make a noticeable difference on the plate.

Sources: Petit Chef.

How ramen noodles can affect your body if you eat them every day

Mie Hermansen

23. April, 2026

How ramen noodles can affect your body if you eat them every day

Ramen noodles are a widely consumed dish, but eating them daily can affect the body in several ways. According to an article from Health.com, the difference between freshly made and instant ramen noodles plays a key role in their health impact.

Instant ramen noodles are highly processed

Instant noodles are made through steaming and deep-frying, which classifies them as a processed food.

Freshly made ramen noodles are a better choice

Ramen noodles prepared from scratch with broth and fresh ingredients are generally considered a healthier option.

Daily intake can strain the body

Photo: kyozstorage_stock / Shutterstock.com

While occasional consumption is unlikely to cause harm, regularly eating ramen noodles may have negative effects over time.

High sodium content

Frequent intake can lead to elevated sodium levels, increasing the risk of conditions such as stroke and gastric cancer.

Seasoning packets add to the load

The included flavor packets are often high in sodium, saturated fat, and flavor enhancers.

Risk of an imbalanced diet

People who frequently eat instant ramen noodles tend to consume fewer essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals.

Low in fiber and micronutrients

Instant ramen noodles contain limited fiber and relatively small amounts of vitamins and minerals.

High in carbohydrates

The dish is primarily carbohydrate-based, which can affect overall nutritional balance.

Link to metabolic syndrome

“Instant noodles in an aluminium pan with a steel ladle.” by SACHINRAJ CP/ CC0 1.0

Eating instant noodles more than twice a week has been associated with a higher prevalence of metabolic syndrome, particularly among women.

Possible reactions to msg

Some individuals may experience side effects from monosodium glutamate, including stomach discomfort, fatigue, or asthma-like symptoms.

Nutritional content per serving

“A stainless steel plate with a serving of spicy instant noodles next to a partially cooked egg.” by appealdahal/ CC0 1.0

One package of instant ramen noodles may contain around 381.5 calories, 15.32 grams of fat, and 1,618 milligrams of sodium.

Ongoing efforts to improve nutrition

Manufacturers are working to enhance nutritional value by fortifying both the noodles and seasoning mixes.

Fruit peel can boost nutritional value of ordinary bread

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

23. April, 2026

Fruit peel can boost nutritional value of ordinary bread

Scientists are increasingly working on ways to utilize by-products from food production.

A study from the National University of Singapore, published in Food Chemistry and reported by SciTechDaily, shows that the peel of red dragon fruit, which is usually discarded, can be used in a new way.

Instead of using the whole peel, the researchers extracted a purified compound. This provides more stable and consistent results in food applications.

At the same time, the work points to a potential way to reduce food waste.

Chemical properties

The extract contains betacyanins, which are natural pigments. They are stable in food and dissolve easily in water, making them simple to incorporate into dough.

Experiments show that these compounds affect gluten in the dough. In small amounts, they improve the structure, allowing the bread to rise better.

If too much is added, however, the dough becomes weaker and less elastic.

Compared with similar compounds, betacyanins may also be easier for the body to absorb.

Effects on health

When the extract is added to bread, it also changes the nutritional content. The bread has a higher level of antioxidants than regular wheat bread.

In addition, the starch is broken down more slowly during digestion. This may influence blood sugar levels, as the body absorbs energy more gradually.

The best results are achieved with an addition of 0.75 percent. At this level, the balance between good baking quality and improved nutrition is optimal.

Sources: SciTechDaily and Food Chemistry.

New research shows: Metformin may have a direct effect on the brain

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

23. April, 2026

Metformin has been used for more than 60 years to treat type 2 diabetes. The medication is known to be both effective and inexpensive.

Until now, it has primarily been believed to work by affecting the liver and the gut.

According to research published in Science Advances and reported by SciTechDaily, researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have investigated whether the brain also plays a role.

The researchers focused on a region of the brain called the hypothalamus, which helps regulate energy and sugar balance in the body.

Experiments with mice

In the study, the researchers worked with mice in which they removed a specific protein, Rap1, from this brain region.

When the protein was absent, metformin no longer affected blood sugar levels.

Other types of diabetes medication still had an effect, suggesting that metformin works in a unique way.

The researchers also found that metformin can reach the brain. Even very small amounts had a clear effect when administered directly.

New possibilities

The results show that the brain responds strongly to metformin, even at low doses. This may have implications for the future treatment of diabetes.

Metformin not only acts in the body’s organs but also affects the brain through the protein Rap1.

This knowledge could eventually lead to more precise treatments with fewer side effects.

Sources: SciTechDaily and Science Advances.

New study suggests ticks favor certain individuals

Mie Hermansen

23. April, 2026

New study suggests ticks favor certain individuals

There’s something about warmer days that pulls people outside. Walks in the park, time in the garden, or a quiet afternoon in nature suddenly become part of everyday life again. But with that shift comes a small, often overlooked risk.

According to research from Masaryk University, scientists are taking a closer look at what actually draws ticks to humans, reports Deník.cz

Their findings suggest that it may not be entirely random who gets bitten more often.

What attracts ticks

Ticks are known carriers of infections such as Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis.

They become active when temperatures rise above just a few degrees, meaning early spring already marks the start of the season.

In a controlled laboratory study, researchers observed how ticks reacted to different blood samples. The results indicated a noticeable pattern in their choices.

Surprising preference

The study showed that ticks were most frequently drawn to blood type A. Types 0 and AB followed, while type B appeared to be the least attractive.

However, experts stress that these findings come with limitations. The experiment took place under laboratory conditions, which do not fully reflect real-life environments where many other factors influence tick behavior.

Stay protected

Researchers and medical professionals emphasize that blood type alone does not determine risk. Time spent outdoors, clothing, and surroundings all play a role in exposure.

To reduce the chance of bites, experts recommend:

Using insect repellent
Wearing long sleeves and covered clothing
Checking the body after being outdoors

Even with new insights, caution remains essential throughout the warmer months.

How milk can affect your body if you drink it every day

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

23. April, 2026

How milk can affect your body if you drink it every day

Milk has long been debated, but research shows that it may offer several health benefits.

Here is an overview of what actually happens in the body with daily consumption, according to EatingWell.

Strengthens your bones

Milk contains both calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for building and maintaining strong bones.

Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, which may help prevent osteoporosis.

Good source of protein

Milk serves as a vegetarian source of protein, contributing to the body’s building and maintenance of muscles and tissues.

Supports weight loss or weight balance

The combination of carbohydrates, protein, and fat in milk makes it filling, which can help regulate hunger and support a healthy weight.

Provides energy for the body

The carbohydrates in milk provide energy, helping the body function optimally in everyday life.

Increases satiety

Protein and fat in milk can make you feel fuller after consumption, which may make it easier to eat a balanced diet.

Does not necessarily negatively affect weight

Research published in The New England Journal of Medicine shows that milk and dairy products do not lead to weight gain, but not necessarily to weight loss either.

Impact on type 2 diabetes

A study published in Clinical Nutrition indicates that milk did not show an increased effect in developing prediabetes.

However, the results are not consistent. For example, another study published in Cardiovascular Endocrinology & Metabolism found a positive association between the development of prediabetes and milk consumption.

Effect on heart health

There are conflicting results, but some studies, such as one published in Nutrition & Metabolism, show that dairy products may be associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.

May contribute to better brain function

Milk consumption has been linked in a study published in Nutrients to a lower risk of cognitive decline and diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

Provides important nutrients

A glass of milk contains vitamin B12, calcium, and potassium, as well as protein and fat, all of which are important for the body.

Problems with lactose intolerance

People lacking the enzyme lactase may experience digestive issues when consuming milk, as they are unable to break down lactose.

Relevant in case of allergy

Milk allergy may make it necessary to completely avoid milk and dairy products.

Cancer risks

Research published in Nutrients suggests that high intake may be associated with a lower risk of certain cancers, such as colorectal cancer, while the link to other types of cancer remains unclear.

Can be used in many dishes

Milk is a versatile ingredient that can be used in smoothies, soups, sauces, and desserts to provide a creamy consistency.

Sources: EatingWell, The New England Journal of Medicine, Clinical Nutrition, Cardiovascular Endocrinology & Metabolism, Nutrition & Metabolism, and Nutrients.

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The symptoms are often very subtle

You can lose most of your kidney function without noticing

Several important functions

Diabetes and high blood pressure increase the risk

Regular blood tests

Certain types of medication can harm the kidneys

Swollen ankles

Reduced urination

Fatigue

Nausea and reduced appetite

High blood pressure

Heart palpitations

Difficulty concentrating

A growing threat

An unexpected pairing

Still early days

The body’s rhythm

New findings

The ecosystem

New research findings

Why you might be misled

How to choose good chicken

Instant ramen noodles are highly processed

Freshly made ramen noodles are a better choice

Daily intake can strain the body

High sodium content

Seasoning packets add to the load

Risk of an imbalanced diet

Low in fiber and micronutrients

High in carbohydrates

Link to metabolic syndrome

Possible reactions to msg

Nutritional content per serving

Ongoing efforts to improve nutrition

Chemical properties

Effects on health

Experiments with mice

New possibilities

What attracts ticks

Surprising preference

Stay protected

Strengthens your bones

Good source of protein

Supports weight loss or weight balance

Provides energy for the body

Increases satiety

Does not necessarily negatively affect weight

Impact on type 2 diabetes

Effect on heart health

May contribute to better brain function

Provides important nutrients

Problems with lactose intolerance

Relevant in case of allergy

Cancer risks

Can be used in many dishes

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