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These body language habits can make you seem unlikable

Body language plays a major role when interacting with other people. Facial expressions, movements, and posture can quickly influence the impression you leave behind.

According to Forbes, certain habits can send unintended signals in social situations.

Body language reveals more than words

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People often form a first impression within seconds by observing facial expressions, hand gestures, and posture. As a result, body language can significantly affect how others perceive you.

Communication also happens without words

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Psychoanalyst and philosopher Paul Watzlawick highlighted in Forbes that communication is not limited to spoken words.

Body language is also an important part of how people exchange signals and convey meaning.

Facial expressions are noticed quickly

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Other people often notice facial expressions, even when they occur unconsciously. Small reactions can therefore influence how a message is received.

Frowning can create uncertainty

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Furrowing your brow may make the other person feel uncertain, even if the action is not intended negatively.

Eye-rolling sends the wrong message

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Rolling your eyes can come across as dismissive or negative toward the person you are speaking with.

A smile appears more welcoming

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A smile is often highlighted as a way to appear more likable and friendly when interacting with others.

Eye contact builds trust

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Looking away during a conversation can create the impression that you are hiding something. This may lead to distrust from the other person.

Lack of eye contact can be seen as insecurity

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Avoiding eye contact may also be interpreted as insecurity or a lack of interest in the conversation.

Keep your focus on the person you are speaking with

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During a conversation, it is recommended to focus your attention on the other person rather than letting your gaze wander around.

Avoid looking at your watch

Woman with fitness watch
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Checking the time in the middle of a conversation can quickly reduce the other person’s willingness to continue sharing their thoughts.

A watch can signal impatience

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Looking at the time is often perceived as a sign of impatience and a lack of respect for the person you are speaking with.

Respect personal space

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Standing too close to someone can make them uncomfortable. Maintaining an appropriate distance demonstrates respect for the other person.

Invading personal space can seem threatening

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When you cross someone else’s personal boundaries, you may come across as disrespectful or, in some cases, even threatening.

Crossed arms send a closed-off signal

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Crossing your arms in front of your chest can create an impression of distance and resistance during a conversation.

Your posture can appear dismissive

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Even if standing with your arms crossed feels comfortable, it can cause others to perceive you as closed off and unapproachable.

Sources: Forbes.

Researcher criticizes sunscreen use: Daily sun exposure may be beneficial

For many years, health authorities have warned against excessive sun exposure.

UV rays can damage the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer. According to the Swedish Cancer Society (Cancerfonden), the sun’s radiation contributes to thousands of cases of melanoma in Sweden each year, a situation that also applies to many other countries.

For this reason, people are still advised to avoid sunburn and protect their skin from intense sunlight.

Large study

Researchers at the Karolinska Institute followed nearly 29,000 women over a period of 34 years. The aim of the study, published in the Journal of Internal Medicine, was to examine how different lifestyle habits affect health.

The researchers found that people who rarely spend time in the sun may have poorer health.

The study identifies a lack of sun exposure as a risk factor alongside well-known factors such as smoking, obesity, and insufficient physical activity.

Surprising findings

Researcher Pelle Lindqvist recommends spending short periods in the sun every day, preferably around midday. He believes it is important to get some sunlight without staying outside long enough to damage the skin.

He is also critical of the way many people use sunscreen.

According to him, some individuals may feel so protected that they stay in the sun longer than they otherwise would.

According to Pelle Lindqvist and his colleagues, moderate sun exposure may be associated with a lower risk of dying from cancer. At the same time, the researchers emphasize that excessive sun exposure can still increase the risk of melanoma.

Sources: News55, Cancerfonden, and the Journal of Internal Medicine.

Forget oatmeal: Why experts are highlighting sprouted buckwheat

Breakfast plays an important role in maintaining energy levels throughout the day. As a result, there is growing interest in foods that both promote satiety and provide the body with the nutrients it needs.

According to the Lithuanian media outlet Lrytas.lt, experts particularly emphasize foods in which vitamins and minerals are more readily absorbed by the body.

Benefits for the body

Dietary fiber is well known for supporting digestion and helping people feel full for longer. At the same time, a low glycemic index may help keep blood sugar levels more stable.

Lrytas.lt also notes that nutrients such as iron, magnesium, and B vitamins are important for concentration, immune function, and the nervous system, among other functions.

The experts’ choice

According to Lrytas.lt, experts recommend eating sprouted green buckwheat.

Unlike the more common roasted buckwheat, they have not been heat-treated. As a result, they are able to sprout, which, according to Lrytas.lt, makes their nutrients easier for the body to absorb.

During the sprouting process, substances that can otherwise inhibit mineral absorption are broken down.

They should not be cooked at high temperatures, as some of their beneficial enzymes, vitamins, and antioxidants may be lost.

Sources: Lrytas.lt.

Experts urge caution as hot weather impacts popular medicines

Sunny days often bring thoughts of outdoor activities, cold drinks, and time spent with family and friends. But as temperatures climb, there is another issue many people may overlook.

According to health specialist Rhysa Phommachanh from Landys Chemist, some medications can become less effective in hot weather, while others may increase the body’s vulnerability to heat-related problems, reports Unilad.

Medications need extra attention

Several types of medication can be affected by high temperatures. Insulin is one example, as exposure to heat may reduce its effectiveness. EpiPens may also become less reliable if they are stored above recommended temperatures.

Asthma inhalers are another concern, as extreme heat can affect the pressure inside the container and potentially influence how the medication is delivered.

The body may respond differently

Some medicines can make it harder for the body to cope with hot conditions. Antihistamines may reduce sweating, while certain antidepressants can interfere with the body’s natural temperature regulation.

Diuretics, often referred to as water tablets, can increase fluid loss and raise the risk of dehydration during a heatwave.

Meanwhile, some acne treatments containing ingredients such as retinol can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, increasing the likelihood of sunburn.

Expert advice during hot weather

Health experts recommend storing medications in a cool, dry place and keeping them away from direct sunlight and excessive humidity.

People using Ozempic or other GLP-1 medications are also being encouraged to pay close attention to their fluid intake. These treatments can reduce feelings of thirst, making it easier for dehydration to go unnoticed during periods of hot weather.

Which dried fruit is best for digestion? Research has the answer

Many people eat dried fruit with breakfast, on yogurt, or as a snack. Dried fruits contain fiber and nutrients that may be beneficial for the body.

According to USA Today, some dried fruits also contain antioxidants. These compounds can help the body protect cells from damage and inflammation.

Beneficial bacteria

Several studies have investigated how dried fruits affect the bacteria in the gut. A study published in Food & Function found evidence that one particular type may help beneficial bacteria grow.

A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food also showed that the fruit may contribute to more regular digestion. This is partly due to its high fiber content and natural compounds that help keep stools softer.

The special fruit

In the same study, researchers observed improvements in digestion among people who consumed around 84 grams of the fruit daily. They also found changes in certain markers associated with gut health.

The dried fruit in question was raisins. According to the studies cited by Le Journal des Femmes, raisins have a strong prebiotic effect. This means they can help beneficial gut bacteria thrive.

However, experts do not recommend eating too many raisins.

USA Today reports that around 40 to 50 grams per day is appropriate for most adults. It is also recommended to choose raisins without added sugar and unnecessary preservatives.

Sources: Le Journal des Femmes, USA Today, Food & Function, and the Journal of Medicinal Food.

How to measure your blood pressure correctly at home

Many people measure their blood pressure at home to keep track of their health.

However, a study from Johns Hopkins Medicine shows that even the position of your arm can affect the result and lead to misleading readings, according to Deník.

High blood pressure is a hidden risk

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High blood pressure can lead to serious cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes.

The problem is that the condition often does not cause obvious symptoms for a long time.

Symptoms can be difficult to recognize

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When symptoms do appear, they may include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, or vision problems.

However, many people do not necessarily associate these signs with their blood pressure.

Some people discover the problem late

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For some individuals, no symptoms occur until serious health complications have already developed.

Regular monitoring is important

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Regular blood pressure checks are the best way to detect elevated values in time, especially for people over the age of 55.

Measuring at home can be beneficial

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It is not recommended to rely solely on measurements taken by your doctor. A long period may pass between appointments, and blood pressure can change in the meantime.

The white coat effect can influence results

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Some people record higher blood pressure readings at the doctor’s office than at home. This phenomenon is associated with stress and anxiety related to medical visits, according to Harvard Health Publishing.

Incorrect use of the device can cause errors

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Even accurate blood pressure monitors can display readings that are too high if they are not used correctly during measurement.

Arm position plays a major role

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Researchers from Johns Hopkins University found that arm position during measurement affects the results more than many people realize.

Incorrect arm position can increase readings

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The study showed that an unsuitable arm position can make systolic blood pressure appear up to 6.5 mmHg higher than it actually is.

Supporting the arm on a table gives the most accurate results

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Researchers compared measurements taken with the arm resting on a table, in the lap, and hanging by the side of the body. The most accurate readings were obtained when the arm was supported on a table.

The lap produced higher readings

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When the arm rested in the lap during measurement, recorded values were on average 3.9 mmHg higher than those obtained using the recommended position.

The arm hanging by the side produced the greatest deviations

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Measurements taken with the arm hanging down by the side showed the highest values on average, up to 6.5 mmHg higher than measurements taken with the arm supported on a table.

A calm environment improves accuracy

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The Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine recommends measuring blood pressure in a quiet room and avoiding conversation during the measurement itself.

Correct body posture is necessary

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Before taking a measurement, you should sit comfortably in a chair with back support, keep both feet flat on the floor, and rest for 5 to 10 minutes.

Coffee, alcohol, and exercise should be avoided

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Smoking, exercise, coffee, and alcohol should be avoided for at least 30 minutes before measurement to prevent the result from being affected.

The arm should be at heart level

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During measurement, the arm should be relaxed, supported on a surface, and positioned at heart level with the palm facing upward.

Multiple measurements provide a better result

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Blood pressure is usually measured two to three times, and the final result is calculated as the average of the second and third measurements.

Sources: Deník, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Harvard Health Publishing, and the Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine.

Study suggests obesity may speed up Alzheimer’s development

A research team from Houston Methodist investigated how obesity affects the brain. The study was published in the journal Molecular Neurodegeneration.

The researchers found that certain fat molecules can travel from the body’s fat tissue to the brain. Once there, they may disrupt communication between brain cells and affect the brain’s immune system, according to SciTechDaily.

Can damage the brain

The researchers focused in particular on molecules called phosphatidylethanolamines, also known as PEs. According to the study, higher levels of these molecules are produced in people with obesity.

When the molecules reach the brain, they may contribute to the buildup of amyloid proteins, which are often associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

At the same time, the molecules may interfere with normal brain function and make it harder for the brain to protect itself.

Possible explanation

The researchers also tested what happened when the balance of fat molecules was restored. In their models, they observed improvements in both brain function and memory.

However, the researchers stress that more studies are needed before the findings can be applied to treatments for humans.

Even so, the study suggests that obesity may contribute to the accelerated development of Alzheimer’s through signaling molecules released from the body’s fat tissue.

Sources: SciTechDaily and Molecular Neurodegeneration.

A good reason to drink beer today – researchers highlight a potential benefit

Alcohol-free beer is becoming increasingly popular. This trend coincides with a growing number of studies examining the nutrients found in beer, according to Iltalehti.

Differences between beer types

A new German study, published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, examined 65 beers from German supermarkets.

The researchers found that bock beer had the highest content of vitamin B6, while rice beer had the lowest. In contrast, there was almost no difference in vitamin B6 content between regular lager and alcohol-free lager.

However, none of the beers studied contained enough vitamin B6 to qualify for a health claim under EU regulations.

Half a liter of beer

Vitamin B6 is important for the body and plays a role in functions including brain health and muscle performance, according to healthcare company Terveystalo.

Experts emphasize, however, that the vitamin should primarily come from everyday foods such as meat, dairy products, grains, and vegetables.

Vitamin B6 deficiency is rare and is often linked to a highly unbalanced diet, according to the BBC.

On average, half a liter of beer can provide around 15 percent of the recommended daily intake of vitamin B6.

The researchers also highlight alcohol-free beer as the best option, as it can provide the same amount of the vitamin without the well-known health risks associated with alcohol.

Sources: Iltalehti, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, Terveystalo, and BBC.

Man lived on nothing but sardines for 48 Hours – Here’s how his body responded

Most people have considered changing their eating habits at some point, whether to improve their health, boost energy levels, or simply feel better in their own skin. That’s one reason unusual diet trends often spread quickly online, attracting millions of curious viewers.

According to LADbible, YouTuber Pigmie recently decided to test one of the internet’s latest health crazes. Instead of following a complicated meal plan, he spent 48 hours eating just one food.

An unusual experiment

The challenge centred around sardines, a food rich in omega-3 fatty acids as well as several important vitamins and minerals. Supporters of the trend claim a short sardine-only diet can help people reset their eating habits and improve overall wellbeing.

To find out for himself, Pigmie documented every stage of the experiment and shared the results with his audience.

Physical changes

Early on, he reported feeling lighter, but the novelty quickly wore off. Hunger became more noticeable, and the lack of variety made the challenge increasingly difficult.

As the hours passed, his energy levels appeared to drop. Without many carbohydrates in his diet, everyday activities felt more demanding than usual.

Researchers have previously studied low-carbohydrate eating patterns, which can lead to a metabolic state known as ketosis, where the body relies more heavily on fat for fuel.

Mixed results

Despite the challenges, Pigmie also noticed several positive changes. He reported improved focus, less discomfort in his joints and shoulders, and visible differences in his physique by the end of the two-day period.

However, nutrition experts generally caution against extreme diets that rely heavily on a single food source. Restrictive eating plans can create nutritional imbalances and may not be suitable for everyone.

While the sardine challenge generated plenty of attention online, it also served as a reminder that viral health trends often come with both potential benefits and important risks.

These fruits can support muscle growth and weight loss

Many people associate fruit with sugar and vitamins, but some fruits also provide protein, fiber, and other valuable nutrients.

With the right choices, fruit can complement a balanced diet while supporting satiety and recovery, according to iDNES.

Protein in fruit

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Protein from fruit naturally comes alongside fiber and antioxidants. This makes fruit a different source of nutrients compared with many processed protein products.

Fruit can increase daily protein intake

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Although fruit cannot compete with meat or other traditional protein sources, carefully selecting certain fruits can contribute an additional 5 to 10 grams of protein per day.

Kiwi

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According to iDNES, kiwi contains approximately 1.1 grams of protein per 100 grams. The fruit is also highlighted for its benefits to digestion.

Frozen berries

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Frozen blackberries and raspberries can be significantly cheaper than fresh varieties when they are out of season. According to iDNES, both the protein content and vitamins are preserved through gentle freezing.

Increased satiety

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Protein has the highest thermic effect among nutrients.

As a result, the body uses energy to process it, and a higher protein intake may help support feelings of fullness.

Stable energy release

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The fiber found in fruit can slow the absorption of sugar. This means energy is released more gradually rather than all at once.

One-sided fruit diets are not recommended

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iDNES emphasizes that a diet based exclusively on fruit can lead to deficiencies in essential amino acids. Dietary variety is highlighted as crucial.

Supporting digestion

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Kiwi and pineapple contain enzymes such as actinidin and bromelain.

These substances are not proteins themselves, but they may help the body break down and digest protein from other foods.

Avocado

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Although many people consider avocado a vegetable, it is botanically classified as a fruit.

A medium-sized avocado provides approximately 3 to 4 grams of plant protein, along with a broader amino acid profile than many other fruits.

Blackberries

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Blackberries contain around 2 grams of protein per cup. They also have a low glycemic index, meaning energy is released more gradually.

Raspberries

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Raspberries are among the locally available fruits with a relatively high protein content. One cup contains approximately 2 grams of protein as well as a good amount of fiber.

Banana

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Bananas are well known for their potassium content, but they also contain around 1.3 grams of protein per fruit.

Combining bananas with dairy products may help the body make better use of amino acids.

Dried apricots

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When fruit is dried, the water content is removed and nutrients become more concentrated. Dried apricots contain more than 3 grams of protein per 100 grams and are easy to take on the go.

Guava tops the list

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Guava is among the fruits with the highest protein content. A serving about the size of a coffee cup contains roughly 4.2 grams of protein.

The fruit is also rich in vitamin C and is becoming increasingly available in supermarkets.

Sources: iDNES.