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Experts explain how to begin strength training after 40

Many people believe that strength training requires a gym membership and advanced equipment, but according to several female trainers over the age of 40, it is possible to achieve significant results with just a few pieces of equipment at home, The Guardian reports.

Dumbbells, resistance bands, or even a backpack filled with books can be used for training.

Resistance bands are highlighted as a particularly practical option because they are inexpensive, easy to store, and suitable for a wide variety of exercises.

Focus on simple exercises

When starting strength training, experts recommend keeping things simple.

Exercises such as squats and deadlifts work multiple muscle groups at the same time and can also improve mobility and cardiovascular fitness.

Beginners do not need to lift heavy weights from the outset.

Bodyweight exercises and lighter versions of classic movements can be an effective way to build strength gradually.

If you experience pain or have limited mobility, exercises can be modified to make them easier to perform.

Strength training becomes more important with age

Good sleep and recovery are also important parts of any training program.

According to the experts, sleep, gentle breathing exercises, and appropriate rest periods can help the body recover after physical activity.

After the age of 40, muscle mass begins to decline gradually, and the loss becomes even more pronounced after the age of 50.

For this reason, experts recommend strength training as an important way to maintain strength and overall health.

According to researchers cited by The Guardian, regular strength training may help reduce the risk of conditions including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.

Too much fruit juice in childhood may raise blood pressure risk

Researchers analyzed data from nearly 25,800 participants in the American Growing Up Today Study and published their findings in Circulation.

The participants were followed for up to 25 years and regularly answered questions about their diet and drinking habits.

The aim was to investigate whether what children drink can affect their health as adults, according to HealthDay.

Fruit makes a difference

The study found that whole fruit may be a better choice than both fruit juice and sugary beverages.

The researchers found that the risk of developing high blood pressure later in life was lower among children who replaced one daily sugary drink with a piece of fruit.

The same effect was observed when fruit juice was replaced with whole fruit.

According to the researchers, one possible explanation is that the fiber and pulp in whole fruits cause sugar to be absorbed more slowly by the body.

The link became clear in the results

Children who drank at least 350 milliliters of fruit juice per day had a 35 percent higher risk of developing high blood pressure as young adults.

Among children who drank at least 700 milliliters of soda or sports drinks daily, the risk was 52 percent higher.

The researchers emphasized that the results could not be explained by other factors such as exercise or the overall quality of the participants’ diets.

The study therefore suggests that a high intake of both fruit juice and sugary beverages during childhood may be associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure later in life.

New sunscreen could protect against more than the sun

Sunscreen has long been an important safeguard against damage caused by ultraviolet radiation, and researchers are working to make these products even better.

According to National Geographic, scientists are developing solutions designed to protect the skin from air pollution and other environmental factors.

Research is also being conducted on products that can support the skin’s natural balance and help keep it healthy for longer.

Different regulations affect development

The development of new sunscreens is not progressing at the same pace everywhere in the world.

In the United States, fewer UV filters are approved than in places such as South Korea and the European Union, making it more difficult to adopt new technologies, National Geographic reports.

At the same time, researchers continue to discuss how some ingredients affect the body.

However, several dermatologists believe that the benefits of using sunscreen still outweigh the potential risks.

South Korea leads the way

South Korea has become known for lightweight sunscreens that absorb quickly into the skin while also containing skincare ingredients.

But researchers’ ambitions do not stop there.

At the company Kolmar, work is underway on sunscreens for the scalp as well as new technologies that can deflect UV rays more effectively.

In the longer term, the company hopes to develop personalized sunscreens that take factors such as skin type, lifestyle, and environment into account.

If these plans succeed, the sunscreen of the future could evolve from an ordinary sun-care product into a comprehensive solution that protects the skin from a wider range of environmental influences.

How bananas can affect your liver if you eat them regularly

Bananas contain fiber, potassium and antioxidants, all of which have been linked to various health benefits. According to research and a liver specialist, the fruit can be part of a diet that supports liver health, although overall eating habits remain the most important factor, reports Parade.

One in four Americans has MASLD

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Around 25% of people in the United States are living with metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease, or MASLD, a condition previously known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

Diet quality plays a major role

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According to gastroenterologist and hepatologist Dr. Qin Rao, overall dietary habits play an important role in liver health and the risk of liver disease.

Fruits and vegetables are linked to lower risk

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A 2024 analysis found that a higher intake of fruits and vegetables was associated with a lower risk of MASLD.

Research findings are not entirely consistent

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A 2022 study found that participants with MASLD who consumed at least four servings of fruit per day had a higher BMI after six months than those who ate less fruit.

Fiber may benefit the liver

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Dr. Rao explains that fiber can support liver health by improving blood sugar control, helping maintain a healthy weight and reducing fat accumulation in the liver.

Studies point to benefits of higher fiber intake

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Research published in 2023 found an association between higher fiber consumption and a lower risk of MASLD.

The gut and liver are closely connected

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Blood from the intestines flows directly to the liver, meaning that conditions in the gut can influence liver function and overall liver health.

Bananas may support beneficial gut bacteria

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The fiber found in bananas can help nourish beneficial bacteria in the gut, which Dr. Rao says may indirectly benefit the liver.

Potassium may also play a role

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Bananas are a well known source of potassium. According to Dr. Rao, some studies have linked higher potassium intake with a lower risk of fatty liver disease and liver scarring.

Antioxidants help protect the body’s cells

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Bananas contain antioxidants that help protect against oxidative stress, a process associated with inflammation and liver damage.

Natural sugar is different from added sugar

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Although bananas contain natural sugars, Dr. Rao emphasizes that the fruit also provides fiber, vitamins and antioxidants that influence how sugar is absorbed by the body.

Overall dietary patterns matter most

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According to Dr. Rao, bananas can be part of a liver friendly diet, but they cannot offset a diet high in sugary drinks, alcohol and heavily processed foods.

Experts warn extreme heat can make these common health conditions worse

A hot summer day can leave anyone feeling drained. The lack of energy, difficulty sleeping and constant search for shade are experiences many people know well.

But for millions of people living with chronic health conditions, extreme heat may pose challenges that go far beyond simple discomfort.

According to health experts cited by organizations including the Cleveland Clinic, Cedars-Sinai, the American Migraine Foundation and the World Health Organization (WHO), prolonged exposure to high temperatures can place additional pressure on the body and increase the risk of complications for certain medical conditions, reports Unilad.

When the body works harder

During periods of intense heat, the body must work harder to regulate its temperature. Blood vessels widen, sweating increases and the cardiovascular system takes on extra demands to prevent overheating.

For some individuals, this added strain can affect heart health. Elevated temperatures may contribute to changes in heart rate and blood pressure, particularly among those who already have underlying cardiovascular issues.

Four conditions to watch

Medical experts say these health problems may become more difficult to manage during heatwaves:

  • Heart conditions
  • Kidney stones
  • Gout
  • Migraines and recurring headaches

Dehydration is a common factor linking many of these conditions. When the body loses fluids faster than they are replaced, urine becomes more concentrated, increasing the likelihood of kidney stone formation.

Fluid loss can also contribute to gout flare-ups and trigger headaches in susceptible individuals.

Staying safe in hot weather

The WHO recommends limiting outdoor activity during the hottest hours of the day, seeking cool environments whenever possible and paying close attention to hydration.

Experts also advise keeping living spaces cool by reducing direct sunlight indoors and improving airflow during cooler evening hours.

As temperatures continue to climb across parts of the United States and other regions worldwide, health professionals say understanding how heat affects the body could help people reduce risks and avoid preventable medical problems.

Should you toss expired supplements? Here’s what pharmacists say

Americans spend billions of dollars on vitamins and dietary supplements each year, yet many of those products eventually end up forgotten in kitchen drawers and bathroom cabinets.

When they resurface months or even years later, consumers are often left wondering whether they should be discarded immediately.

According to reporting by EatingWell, pharmacists say expiration dates on supplements are commonly misunderstood.

Unlike prescription medicines, dietary supplements are not always required to carry expiration dates, and when manufacturers include them, they often relate to how long the product is expected to maintain its full potency.

More than a date

Rather than becoming unsafe overnight, many supplements gradually lose strength as they age. That means a vitamin or mineral may still be usable after its listed date, but it may not deliver the same level of effectiveness.

How a supplement is stored can make a significant difference. Products kept in cool, dry conditions generally remain stable longer than those exposed to humidity, heat or direct sunlight.

Certain forms, including gummies, oils and probiotic supplements, may be more vulnerable to degradation than traditional tablets, capsules and powders.

Signs to watch for

Pharmacists told EatingWell that consumers should focus on the condition of a supplement, not just the date on the label. Changes in appearance can be a warning that quality has declined.

Discoloration, unusual odors, clumping, moisture damage or visible mold are all signs that a product should be discarded, regardless of when it was purchased.

People who rely on supplements to support specific nutritional needs may also want to be more cautious, as reduced potency could affect the intended benefit.

Safe disposal

When it is time to get rid of old supplements, experts recommend using pharmacy take-back programs where available.

If that is not an option, supplements can be sealed with undesirable household waste before being placed in the trash. Flushing them down the toilet is discouraged because of potential environmental impacts.

Early warning signs in your back that could signal cancer

Spinal tumors are rare growths that develop in or around the spine, spinal cord, or nerves.

They can be either benign or malignant and may cause symptoms such as pain, sensory changes, and reduced mobility, according to the Mayo Clinic.

What is a spinal tumor?

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A spinal tumor is a growth that develops in or around the spine, spinal cord, or nerves.

These tumors can be either benign or malignant.

Spinal cancer often originates from other cancers

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Around 95 percent of spinal cancer cases occur when cancer has spread to the spine from another part of the body.

Tumors can develop in several parts of the spine

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Spinal tumors can develop anywhere along the spine, but they are most commonly found in the middle section behind the chest or in the lower back.

The neck is affected less frequently.

Pain can be an early sign

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A spinal tumor can put pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, causing pain in the back or neck.

Pain that worsens at night or when lying down may be an early symptom.

Treatment depends on the nature of the tumor

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The choice of treatment depends on the tumor’s size, type, and location.

Options may include surgery, radiation therapy, or medication.

Some tumors only require monitoring

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Small or slow-growing tumors do not always need immediate treatment.

In some cases, regular MRI scans are sufficient.

There are several types of spinal tumors

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Spinal tumors are classified according to where they develop.

They may arise in the bones of the spine, the membranes surrounding the spinal cord, or within the spinal cord tissue itself.

Persistent pain is the most common symptom

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The most common symptom is back or neck pain that does not go away.

The pain may be described as dull, sharp, or burning.

Symptoms can affect the arms and legs

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When a spinal tumor presses on nerves, it can cause numbness, tingling, or reduced sensation in the arms, legs, hands, or feet.

Muscle weakness can make daily life more difficult

back pain
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Some people experience muscle weakness or difficulty walking because the tumor affects nerve function.

Balance may be affected

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Pressure on the spinal cord or nerves can lead to problems with balance and coordination, making movement less stable.

Advanced disease can affect bladder and bowel function

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In severe cases, certain nerves may become compressed, resulting in bladder or bowel problems.

Other cancers can spread to the spine

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Many spinal tumors in adults are caused by cancer that originated elsewhere in the body and later spread to the spine.

Early treatment can reduce the risk of damage

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Prompt diagnosis and treatment can help protect nerves, preserve strength, and reduce the risk of permanent complications.

Common ibuprofen habit could slow recovery

When pain appears suddenly, whether from a twisted ankle, a pulled muscle or a minor injury, most people want relief as quickly as possible. For many, that means reaching straight for ibuprofen.

However, according to reporting by Daily Express, citing NHS doctor Dr Amir Khan, taking the popular painkiller too soon after an injury may not always be the best approach. Medical experts are increasingly highlighting the important role inflammation plays during the body’s earliest stages of healing.

The body’s repair system

After an injury, the body immediately activates a complex repair process. One of the first responses is inflammation, which causes swelling, tenderness and warmth around the affected area.

While inflammation is often viewed as something negative, healthcare professionals say it serves an essential purpose. It helps direct immune cells to damaged tissue, allowing the body to begin repairing itself.

Researchers have spent years studying how anti-inflammatory medicines interact with this natural response. Evidence suggests that reducing inflammation too early could interfere with some of the body’s recovery mechanisms.

Why timing matters

Ibuprofen belongs to a group of medicines known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It works by reducing inflammation and easing pain, making it one of the most widely used medications worldwide.

According to Dr Amir Khan, people recovering from injuries such as sprains or minor fractures may benefit from allowing the body’s initial healing response to take place before using ibuprofen. The concern is that suppressing inflammation immediately after an injury could slow down recovery in some cases.

Common side effects

Although ibuprofen is considered safe when used correctly, it can still cause side effects. Common examples include:

  • Stomach discomfort
  • Nausea
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Diarrhoea or constipation

The NHS advises people to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible period and to seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.

Many people already have cumin at home – could it do more than add flavor?

Many spices are used every day in cooking, but some of them are also being studied for their potential health benefits.

One of them has recently attracted increased attention from researchers.

According to the Greek media outlet Kynigesia, several studies suggest that certain natural compounds in the spice may have a positive effect on the body’s digestion and metabolism.

More than just flavor

The interest is partly due to researchers examining whether the spice can help the body convert energy more efficiently.

Its impact on appetite and blood sugar levels is also being studied, both of which play a role in weight management.

However, the spice remains best known for its distinctive flavor and is used in many dishes around the world.

Used as a beverage

Some people choose to use the spice as a hot drink.

The seeds are placed in hot water or briefly boiled to extract their flavor compounds.

According to Kynigesia, this drink is associated with reduced bloating and improved digestion.

Some people add lemon or honey to make the taste milder.

The spice

Although the results are interesting, experts emphasize that no spice or drink alone can lead to significant weight loss.

A healthy diet and regular exercise remain the most important factors.

The spice that researchers are focusing on is cumin.

According to Kynigesia, the studies suggest that it may be a useful supplement to a healthy lifestyle, but not a solution in itself.

New study: Critical sunscreen videos generate the most engagement on TikTok

Sunscreen is a popular topic on TikTok, where influencers and users regularly share skincare advice.

According to a new study published in PLOS Digital Health, the vast majority of the platform’s most-viewed sunscreen-related videos encouraged the use of sunscreen.

Researchers analyzed nearly 1,000 popular videos posted under the largest sunscreen-related hashtags.

The results showed that approximately 87 percent of the videos spoke positively about sunscreen.

Health rarely mentioned

Although many videos recommended sunscreen, the focus was often on appearance and skincare rather than health.

The researchers found that only about six percent of the videos directly mentioned that sunscreen can help reduce the risk of skin cancer.

Yet this is one of the primary reasons why health authorities recommend using sunscreen.

According to the researchers, sunscreen is therefore often presented as a beauty product rather than a tool for protecting health.

Attention and engagement

Critical videos made up only a small share of the content.

Around six percent of the videos were critical of sunscreen, while an even smaller number claimed that the product could be harmful or unnecessary.

However, when the researchers examined user behavior, a different picture emerged.

The critical videos received proportionally more likes, comments, and shares than videos promoting sunscreen.

The study therefore concludes that misinformation about sunscreen does not occupy a large space on TikTok, but it is more successful at attracting attention and generating engagement among users.