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23. June, 2026

Men report erectile problems linked to hair loss drug

A medication used to treat hair loss has come under scrutiny following a significant increase in the number of reported side effects.

According to the UK medicines regulator MHRA, cited by The Sun, 547 reports of possible side effects were recorded in 2025. By comparison, the figure was 66 in 2020.

Authorities respond

Finasteride is a common used treatments for hair loss. The drug works by affecting a hormone that plays a role in the development of hair loss, The Sun reports.

In response to the concerns, the MHRA decided in 2024 that finasteride packaging must include a special warning card.

The aim is to make users aware of the known risks associated with the treatment.

Both physical and psychological problems

The reported side effects include skin rashes, acne, nausea, and bad breath.

Cases of depression, anxiety, and panic attacks have also been recorded, according to the MHRA.

The regulator emphasizes that all medicines can have side effects and that the benefits and risks should be assessed together with a doctor.

Other side effects

According to the MHRA, 159 men reported erectile dysfunction, while 67 reported a reduced sex drive.

In addition, cases of testicular pain, enlargement of breast tissue in men, and the rare condition Peyronie’s disease, which can cause curvature of the penis, were recorded.

The surprising ways honey may affect your body

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23. June, 2026

The surprising ways honey may affect your body

Most people keep honey in the kitchen without giving it much thought. It is stirred into tea, drizzled over breakfast or used as a simple alternative to sugar. But researchers are increasingly looking beyond its sweetness and examining what else this natural food may offer.

According to research highlighted by Interia Zdrowie and findings from nutrition and cardiovascular studies, honey contains a variety of plant compounds, antioxidants and naturally occurring substances that may support several functions in the body.

Experts stress that honey is not a medicine, but growing evidence suggests it may provide benefits when consumed in moderation.

More than just sugar

Although honey is primarily made up of natural sugars, researchers say its composition is more complex than that of refined sugar.

Studies have explored whether honey may help support healthy metabolic processes and influence blood sugar regulation differently from traditional sweeteners. Scientists have also investigated its potential role in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and supporting cardiovascular function.

However, experts caution that honey remains a source of sugar and should not be consumed without limits.

A traditional remedy under review

For generations, honey has been used as a home remedy during cold and flu season. Today, researchers are examining whether science can explain its long-standing popularity.

Several studies suggest that honey may help soothe coughs and irritation in the upper respiratory tract. As a result, it is often viewed as a simple and accessible option for relieving mild symptoms.

Growing interest in gut health

Scientists are also exploring honey’s relationship with the gut microbiome. Natural compounds known as polyphenols may help support beneficial bacteria and contribute to a healthier digestive environment.

Researchers have highlighted several potential benefits:

May support gut health
Contains antioxidants
May help soothe coughs and sore throats
Could contribute to heart health

While the findings are promising, experts agree that honey works best as part of a balanced diet rather than as a replacement for medical treatment.

Peanut butter’s surprising health perks

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23. June, 2026

Peanut butter has become a staple in many households and is used in everything from breakfast meals to snacks. While it is calorie-dense, it can also provide several valuable nutrients when enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

A popular choice among active people

Many people include peanut butter in their diet because it is easy to pair with other foods and can be enjoyed before or after physical activity.

An easy way to add more plant protein

Peanut butter contains plant-based protein, making it a useful option for those looking to increase their intake of plant-derived protein sources.

Suitable for different eating styles

It can easily fit into vegetarian and vegan meal plans and works well alongside a variety of other foods.

Can make breakfast more filling

When combined with foods such as whole grain bread or oats, peanut butter may help create a more satisfying breakfast.

Contains a mix of fat, fiber, and protein

This combination is one reason why peanut butter is often associated with longer-lasting fullness after eating.

A convenient snack option

A small serving can be a practical choice on busy days when extra energy is needed between meals.

Can replace sweeter spreads

Some people use peanut butter instead of sweeter spreadable products to make breakfasts and snacks more nutritious.

Provides concentrated energy

Even a modest portion contains a significant amount of energy, making it a popular choice for people with active lifestyles.

Contains several important minerals

“Warm melty peanut butter on toast.” by Topher/ CC0 1.0

Peanut butter provides minerals including magnesium, potassium, zinc, and phosphorus, all of which play roles in normal bodily functions.

Also provides B vitamins

“Peanuts Food” by Michal Kulesza/ CC0 1.0

It contains certain B vitamins that contribute to the body’s energy metabolism.

Can be part of a heart-conscious diet

“Peanuts Food” by Krzysztof%20Puszczy%u0144ski/ CC0 1.0

Peanuts contain a high proportion of unsaturated fatty acids, which are often highlighted as part of a balanced eating pattern.

Quality depends on the ingredients

“Mound of peanuts in the shell.” by Vishnu Chandra/ CC0 1.0

The simplest varieties contain mainly peanuts and possibly a small amount of salt, while products with numerous added ingredients generally offer a less favorable nutritional profile.

Why perfectionists often struggle more when life changes

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23. June, 2026

Why perfectionists often struggle more when life changes

Most people take pride in doing things well. Whether it’s preparing for a meeting, completing a project or organizing daily life, aiming for high standards is often seen as a positive trait.

But psychologists say there can be an overlooked cost when the pursuit of excellence becomes a constant need.

According to psychological research highlighted by Tupi, people with strong perfectionist tendencies often find it harder to adapt when plans change or situations become unpredictable.

What appears to be discipline and ambition on the surface can sometimes create challenges beneath it.

When control becomes a problem

Perfectionism is about more than setting high goals. Researchers describe it as a pattern often linked to a need for certainty, control and flawless outcomes.

Because of this, unexpected changes can feel especially uncomfortable. New routines, shifting priorities or uncertain situations may trigger higher levels of stress and anxiety than they do for others.

Experts say this can make it more difficult to adjust quickly when life does not go according to plan.

Stuck between success and failure

One common characteristic of unhealthy perfectionism is all-or-nothing thinking. Instead of seeing progress on a spectrum, outcomes are often judged as either complete success or total failure.

This mindset can contribute to:

Excessive self-criticism
Delayed decision-making
Procrastination
Increased stress during change

Over time, these patterns may reduce flexibility and make everyday challenges feel more overwhelming.

Building greater flexibility

Psychologists emphasize that perfectionism is not always harmful. High standards can be motivating and help people achieve meaningful goals.

The key difference is flexibility. Research suggests that people who can adapt their expectations, accept mistakes and view setbacks as part of growth are often better equipped to handle change.

Rather than abandoning ambition, experts recommend developing a more balanced approach that allows room for both achievement and adaptation.

Can fish oil protect your brain? New study provides answers

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23. June, 2026

Can fish oil protect your brain? New study provides answers

Fish oil is one of the most popular dietary supplements among older adults.

Many people use it in the hope of protecting their memory and reducing the risk of diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

Researchers have therefore spent several years investigating whether omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil can help the brain stay healthy for longer.

A two-year study

A new study, published in the journal EBioMedicine, followed 365 people between the ages of 55 and 80 who were at increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

Participants received either a daily omega-3 supplement or a placebo for two years, according to HealthDay.

Researchers first wanted to determine whether DHA, an important omega-3 fatty acid, actually reached the brain.

Measurements showed that DHA levels increased by around 17 percent after six months.

Testing the brain

The researchers then examined participants’ memory and brain function through cognitive tests and brain scans.

The results showed no measurable benefit for those who took fish oil.

There were no improvements in memory or cognitive abilities compared with the group that received a placebo.

The study also found that the development of brain regions associated with Alzheimer’s disease was not affected.

What does it mean?

Although the omega-3 fatty acids reached the brain, researchers found no evidence that fish oil could protect against Alzheimer’s disease.

The study therefore suggests that fish oil alone is not an effective method of preventing the most common form of dementia.

Instead, the researchers emphasize that regular exercise, good sleep, and a healthy diet remain among the most important factors in reducing the risk of the disease.

You might eat them every day: These preservatives could affect your blood pressure

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23. June, 2026

You might eat them every day: These preservatives could affect your blood pressure

Researchers from INSERM and Université Sorbonne Paris Nord followed more than 112,000 French adults for up to eight years as part of the NutriNet-Santé project. The findings were published in the European Heart Journal and cited by Medical Daily.

The study is among the largest of its kind. At the same time, the researchers emphasize that it is an observational study.

Therefore, the results cannot prove that the preservatives directly cause disease.

The researchers examined 58 different preservatives and focused particularly on those consumed by a large proportion of participants.

Focus on food additives

An important aspect of the study concerns the difference between naturally occurring substances in foods and additives used in food production.

According to the researchers, a substance may affect the body differently depending on how it is consumed.

A nutrient found in fruit is not necessarily equivalent to the same substance used as an additive in an industrially manufactured food product.

This is particularly relevant because food manufacturers are increasingly using ingredients of natural origin in their products.

The preservatives

The researchers found that eight common preservatives were associated with a 29 percent higher risk of high blood pressure among individuals with the highest intake compared with those with the lowest intake.

In addition, one additive was linked to a 16 percent higher risk of cardiovascular disease.

Among the preservatives associated with high blood pressure were citric acid and ascorbic acid, which are often marketed as natural ingredients.

Among individuals with the highest intake, these substances were associated with a 22 percent higher risk of high blood pressure.

How bananas can affect your body if you eat them every day

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23. June, 2026

How bananas can affect your body if you eat them every day

Bananas may not be the first fruit that comes to mind when thinking about brain health, but they contain several nutrients that experts associate with a healthy brain. Here are 12 key reasons, reports Parade.

Bananas support the connection between the gut and the brain

The fiber in bananas helps promote a healthy gut, and gut health plays an important role in the signals sent to the brain.

A healthy gut may benefit mental function

Experts explain that communication between the gut and the brain influences memory, focus, and mood.

Slightly green bananas offer a unique advantage

Bananas that are not fully ripe contain more prebiotics than fully yellow bananas.

Prebiotics are linked to lower inflammation

According to experts, prebiotics may help create conditions that support overall brain health.

The fruit contains natural protective compounds

Bananas provide antioxidants that help the body manage oxidative stress.

Vitamin C contributes to cell protection

Part of the fruit’s protective potential comes from its vitamin C content, which helps protect cells from damage.

Yellow pigments may play a role

Carotenoids, the compounds responsible for a banana’s yellow color, have been linked to lower levels of oxidation and inflammation.

The brain relies on B vitamins

Bananas contain B vitamins that are involved in several important processes that support normal brain function.

Vitamin B6 plays a key role

This vitamin helps the body produce neurotransmitters that are important for memory, mood, and cognitive performance.

Several nutrients work together

Vitamin B6 works alongside folate and vitamin B12 in a number of biological processes within the body.

Magnesium and potassium are among banana’s strengths

“Bananas Fruits” by Ryan McGuire/ CC0 1.0

Both minerals are found in bananas, and experts highlight them as nutrients that may support brain health.

The research is promising but not conclusive

“Bananas Orange” by Piotr Lohunko/ CC0 1.0

Animal studies have produced encouraging results, but researchers stress that more extensive studies in humans are still needed.

Can you picture an apple in your mind? Millions of people can’t

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23. June, 2026

Can you picture an apple in your mind? Millions of people can’t

For most people, recalling a childhood memory, a loved one’s face or a favourite placer e instantly brings up a mental picture. It feels so natural that few ever stop to wonder whether everyone experiences thoughts in the same way.

But researchers say that is not the case. According to neurologist Professor Adam Zeman, millions of people live with a little-known cognitive difference called aphantasia, often without realising it, reports LADbible.

A hidden difference

Aphantasia is the inability to voluntarily create mental images. While most people can picture an object, person or location in their mind, those with the condition rely on concepts, facts and knowledge instead of visual imagery.

The condition does not affect intelligence, creativity or memory. People with aphantasia still know what an object looks like and can describe it in detail, even if they cannot see it internally.

Some individuals experience a broader form known as global aphantasia, where imagined sounds, tastes and other sensory experiences may also be absent.

Often discovered late

One reason aphantasia remained largely unknown for so long is that many people assume everyone thinks the same way they do.

As a result, some only discover the condition later in life after learning that other people can consciously generate vivid mental images.

Researchers have also identified cases where aphantasia developed following injury, although many people appear to have had it since birth.

More common than expected

Studies suggest that visual aphantasia may affect around 4-5% of the population, while broader definitions could place the figure even higher.

According to research cited by Professor Zeman, as many as 10% of people worldwide may fall somewhere on the aphantasia spectrum.

That means millions could be experiencing the world differently without ever knowing there is a name for it.

More than 500,000 older adults studied: Vaccination linked to lower dementia risk

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23. June, 2026