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Scientists develop promising therapy for vision loss

29. May, 2026

Struggling to read small text or recognize faces from a distance is something many people slowly experience with age. Vision changes often arrive quietly, but for millions of older adults, they can eventually become life-altering.

Now, researchers believe a new type of laser treatment could help protect the eyes before serious damage begins. According to research from Aalto University published in Nature Communications, scientists are developing an experimental heat-based therapy designed to slow dry age-related macular degeneration, commonly known as AMD.

Dry AMD is one of the leading causes of vision loss among older adults. The condition damages the retina over time, making everyday activities like reading, driving, and focusing on objects increasingly difficult, reports Science Daily.

A new direction

Instead of trying to replace damaged cells after vision has already declined, researchers are focusing on helping the eye defend itself earlier in the disease process.

The treatment uses near-infrared light to gently warm tissue at the back of the eye. Scientists say the mild heat may activate natural repair systems inside retinal cells that become weaker with age.

Researchers involved in the study explained that aging cells struggle to remove damaged proteins. Over time, fatty deposits known as drusen build up in the retina and become one of the main warning signs of dry AMD.

Human trials next

The treatment has already shown promising results in animal studies involving mice and pigs. Researchers are now preparing for the first human trials in Finland during 2026.

The initial phase will focus on determining whether the treatment is safe for patients. Later studies will examine whether the therapy can slow the progression of vision loss over time.

Scientists also believe the treatment may need to be repeated regularly to keep the eye’s protective mechanisms active.

While the therapy is still experimental, researchers say it reflects growing interest in light-based treatments for eye disease. If successful, the technology could eventually become available in eye clinics within the next few years.

New mothers often neglect their own meals, study finds

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

29. May, 2026

New mothers often neglect their own meals, study finds

After childbirth, it can be difficult to manage everyday life. According to a survey conducted by Verian for ICA, 29 percent say they lack the energy to cook.

At the same time, 26 percent find it difficult to make time for grocery shopping or preparing healthy meals. Seventeen percent say they struggle to eat regularly.

Food becomes a lower priority

The study also shows that many women do not think enough about their own needs. Thirty-three percent say it is difficult to prioritize themselves and their own meals.

ICA highlights that planning can help. For example, having basic groceries at home and easy meals in the freezer before the baby arrives can make everyday life easier.

Lack of knowledge

Many women do not know enough about how they should eat after pregnancy and childbirth.

According to the survey, 32 percent have limited knowledge about healthy eating habits after giving birth.

At the same time, 65 percent have given little or no thought to how they should eat to feel their best.

The postpartum period covers the first three months after childbirth. According to ICA, the body needs more energy, fluids, and nutrients during this period.

Sources: ICA.

How a mixture of lemon and olive oil can affect your body if you drink it every morning

Mie Hermansen

29. May, 2026

How a mixture of lemon and olive oil can affect your body if you drink it every morning

According to Health, more people have started drinking a mix of lemon juice and olive oil first thing in the morning. The trend has grown rapidly on social media, where the drink is often promoted as a simple wellness habit.

Experts say, however, that several of the popular claims surrounding the mixture are not backed by strong scientific evidence.

A simple mix has gained massive attention

The shot is usually made with fresh lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil, consumed before breakfast on an empty stomach.

Many connect the drink to digestion

Some people report feeling lighter or more regular after adding the drink to their morning routine.

Olive oil contains beneficial fats

Olive oil is known for its content of monounsaturated fats and plant compounds that have long been studied for their health benefits.

Researchers have examined its impact on heart health

Studies have linked higher olive oil intake to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.

Lemon provides antioxidants

Lemon juice contains vitamin C, which helps protect the body’s cells from oxidative damage.

Citric acid may also play a role

Research suggests the citric acid found in lemons may help lower the risk of kidney stone formation in some people.

Experts reject special detox claims

There is no clear scientific proof that mixing olive oil and lemon cleanses the body or removes toxins.

The body already handles detoxification naturally

The liver and kidneys already manage the body’s detox processes, meaning special morning shots are not considered necessary.

Some people feel fuller for longer

The fat content in olive oil may slow digestion slightly, helping some people stay satisfied longer during the morning.

The drink is not a proven weight-loss solution

Even though the trend is often linked to weight loss, research does not show that the shot alone leads to fast results.

Some people may experience side effects

People who struggle with acid reflux or sensitive stomachs may notice irritation caused by the acidity of lemon juice or the oil itself.

Experts consider the mixture generally safe

For most healthy adults, the drink is considered safe, though experts point out that balanced eating habits provide similar benefits overall.

New mobile game can detect signs of depression in three minutes

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

29. May, 2026

New mobile game can detect signs of depression in three minutes

Researchers at NYU Grossman School of Medicine investigated whether a video game could be used to detect signs of depression.

That is according to HealthDay, citing a new study published in the scientific journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

In the game, participants collect apples from digital trees. Each time a tree is used, it produces fewer apples than before.

Players therefore have to decide when it is more beneficial to move on to a new tree.

The study included 120 participants, 50 of whom had been diagnosed with depression.

Clear differences

The researchers observed clear differences between the participants. People without depression tended to stay with the same tree longer, even when it produced fewer apples.

Participants with depression stopped earlier and switched to new trees more quickly.

According to the researchers, this may be linked to anhedonia, a condition in which people lose enjoyment of activities they would normally find pleasurable.

The researchers also believe the test could help distinguish between different types of depression.

Fast method

According to the researchers, the method can be used remotely via a smartphone.

This could make it easier for doctors to monitor patients’ progress without requiring many in-person visits.

The researchers believe depression could be detected in as little as three minutes through the game.

Sources: HealthDay and Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Deadly measles outbreak kills more than 500 children

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

29. May, 2026

Deadly measles outbreak kills more than 500 children

Hospitals across Bangladesh are currently under significant pressure. In particular, many wards in the capital, Dhaka, are operating at full capacity, and healthcare workers are finding it difficult to keep up with the growing number of patients.

According to Medical Daily and the BBC, many families are traveling long distances to receive treatment. At the same time, authorities are working to contain the outbreak and support the hardest-hit areas.

Low vaccination rates

According to Medical Daily, UNICEF points to insufficient childhood vaccination coverage in recent years as a key factor behind the outbreak.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, several vaccination programs were disrupted, and some children never received their scheduled immunizations.

The organization also cites delays in vaccine deliveries as a contributing cause.

As a result, a large-scale vaccination campaign has now been launched with support from international partners.

A serious development

Health authorities and humanitarian organizations warn that young children are particularly vulnerable. The highest risk is among unvaccinated children under the age of five.

At the same time, Dhaka’s dense population makes it easier for the disease to spread. Although authorities are seeing signs that the situation is beginning to stabilize in some areas, concerns remain high.

Since March, more than 60,000 suspected and confirmed measles cases have been recorded in Bangladesh. More than 500 children have died, making the outbreak one of the worst the country has experienced in recent years.

Sources: Medical Daily and BBC.

WHO: Ebola outbreak is now an international health emergency

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

29. May, 2026

WHO: Ebola outbreak is now an international health emergency

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 500 people are suspected to have been infected in the Democratic Republic of Congo. At least 130 people are believed to have died.

Health authorities fear, according to Everyday Health, that the disease could spread more rapidly because several infected individuals traveled around the region before being identified.

Experts say the virus may have spread undetected for several weeks because some tests do not work effectively against this particular variant.

Hospitals under pressure

Ebola spreads through contact with bodily fluids such as blood, vomit, and feces. The disease initially causes symptoms such as fever and headaches, which can make it difficult to detect in its early stages.

According to U.S. health authorities, several healthcare workers have been infected during the outbreak. This highlights the importance of protective equipment and rapid isolation measures.

WHO and the CDC state that patients can later develop severe symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and internal bleeding.

No approved vaccine

What makes this outbreak especially concerning is that it is caused by the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola. There is currently no approved vaccine or targeted treatment for this specific variant.

The United States has therefore introduced additional screening measures for travelers arriving from Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan. However, American experts still assess the risk of transmission in the United States as very low.

Researchers point in particular to the lack of a vaccine and the delayed detection of the virus as the reasons behind the growing international concern.

Sources: Everyday Health, WHO, and CDC.

Why morning is the best time for a bowel movement

Body

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

29. May, 2026

Why morning is the best time for a bowel movement

According to gastroenterologists cited by EatingWell, the morning is often the best time to have a bowel movement.

The body’s natural rhythm, breakfast, and overnight fasting all play a role in digestion and bowel activity.

Morning is often the best time

Experts say that most people find it easiest to have a bowel movement in the morning shortly after waking up.

The body follows a circadian rhythm

Digestion follows the body’s natural circadian rhythm, which affects bowel activity throughout the day, according to a study published in Frontiers in Physiology.

The bowel is most active in the morning

The colon is typically most active during the morning hours, which can make it easier to have a bowel movement.

Cortisol may stimulate digestion

The body’s natural cortisol levels rise in the morning and may stimulate the urge to have a bowel movement, according to a study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.

Overnight fasting helps the body

The digestive system works more slowly during sleep, allowing stool to build up in the intestines overnight.

Breakfast activates the bowel

When the stomach is filled with food and drink, the so-called gastrocolic reflex is activated, encouraging the bowel to move.

Fibre plays an important role

A fibre-rich diet can help stool move more easily through the intestines and support regular bowel movements.

Hydration is essential

If the body lacks fluids, stool can become hard and more difficult to pass.

Exercise can support digestion

Regular physical activity can increase bowel activity and make it easier to have a bowel movement.

Travel can affect the stomach

Time zones, changes in eating habits, and reduced activity while travelling can make it harder to maintain regular bowel movements.

Stress can change toilet habits

Stress and anxiety can affect the connection between the brain and the gut, leading to both diarrhoea and constipation.

Certain illnesses can affect bowel movements

Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease, diabetes, and thyroid disorders can alter bowel habits.

Medication can change digestion

Some types of medication, including opioids and certain antidepressants, can lead to constipation.

Pregnancy can slow digestion

Hormonal changes and pressure from the foetus can make it more difficult to have regular bowel movements during pregnancy.

Age affects digestion

Digestion often slows with age, and the muscles in the intestines and rectum may become weaker.

Good morning routines can help

Experts recommend consistent sleep habits, morning light exposure, water, coffee, and a fibre-rich breakfast to create a stable routine.

The body can be trained to follow regular toilet habits

By sitting on the toilet every morning after coffee and breakfast, the body can adapt to a regular schedule.

Regularity matters more than timing

Experts emphasise that the most important factor is not exactly when you have a bowel movement, but that bowel movements are regular and feel complete.

Sources: EatingWell, Frontiers in Physiology, and International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.

Your Alzheimer’s risk may depend on which plant-based foods you eat

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

29. May, 2026

Your Alzheimer’s risk may depend on which plant-based foods you eat

A new study published in Neurology examined the eating habits of nearly 93,000 adults in the United States over a period of approximately 11 years.

The aim was to investigate whether plant-based diets are linked to the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

Not all plant foods are healthy

Researchers divided participants’ diets into different categories. Some participants consumed large amounts of healthy plant-based foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, and legumes.

Others consumed higher amounts of less healthy plant-based products, including sugar, refined grains, and juice. The study did not specifically focus on vegetarian or vegan diets.

The researchers also accounted for factors such as age, physical activity, and illnesses like diabetes to improve the accuracy of the results.

Lower and higher risk

The findings showed that people with the healthiest plant-based diets had a lower risk of developing dementia. In contrast, those with the least healthy diets faced a higher risk.

In a smaller part of the study, researchers also examined participants who changed their diets over time. Those who moved away from unhealthy plant-based eating habits had a lower risk of dementia later in life.

However, the researchers emphasize that the study only shows an association and does not prove that diet can directly prevent the disease.

Sources: SciTechDaily and Neurology.

SPF in day cream does not replace sunscreen, researchers say

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

29. May, 2026

SPF in day cream does not replace sunscreen, researchers say

Many people use facial moisturizers with sun protection factor (SPF) as a quick everyday solution.

These products are often applied in the morning as part of a regular skincare routine.

However, researchers say this is not the same as using regular sunscreen.

Senior researcher Ellen Bruzell from the Nordic Institute of Dental Materials in Norway told forskning.no that people typically apply too little day cream to achieve the level of protection stated on the packaging.

Used differently

Researcher Berit Granum from the Norwegian Institute of Public Health believes the products serve different purposes.

Sunscreen is normally applied several times throughout the day, while face cream is often used only once.

This means the UV protection quickly becomes too weak. According to the researchers, products containing SPF must be reapplied several times to work properly.

The researchers also point out that day creams do not always protect against both UVA and UVB rays.

Risk of false security

Ellen Bruzell emphasizes that some consumers may believe they are well protected throughout the day, even when that is not the case.

The researchers conclude that day creams with SPF should not replace regular sunscreen during extended periods in the sun.

She explains that regular sunscreens in Europe must meet stricter requirements than day creams containing SPF.

At the same time, the researchers recommend fragrance-free sunscreens, especially for children, because fragrances can cause skin irritation and allergies.

Sources: Forskning.no.

Surprising asthma triggers you may face every day

Mie Hermansen

28. May, 2026

Surprising asthma triggers you may face every day

Asthma is often linked to pollen and dust, but many ordinary things at home and in daily life can also irritate the airways. Several of these triggers may go unnoticed until symptoms begin to worsen.

Pets can affect the airways

Proteins from animals can be found in fur, skin, urine, and saliva. In people with allergies, this may lead to irritation and asthma symptoms.

Strong scents can cause irritation

Perfume, cleaning products, and other heavily scented items may irritate the airways and make symptoms more noticeable.

Household chemicals may be irritating

Products such as paint, cleaning supplies, cosmetics, and air fresheners can affect people with sensitive airways.

Cold air can create problems

Dry and cold winter air may irritate the lungs and lead to increased discomfort for people with asthma.

High temperatures may affect breathing

Hot and humid air can make breathing more difficult while also increasing the amount of pollution and allergens in the air.

Smoke residue can linger indoors

Chemicals from cigarette smoke can remain in carpets, furniture, cars, and clothing long after the cigarette has been extinguished.

Insect stings can trigger symptoms

Bees, wasps, hornets, and fire ants may create problems for people with allergies and asthma.

Nitrogen dioxide can irritate the lungs

The gas is found in appliances that burn gas, kerosene, or wood and may affect both the throat and airways.

Stress can affect the body physically

People with asthma may experience more chest tightness and shortness of breath during periods of high stress or anxiety.

Smoke can build up in homes and cars

“Cigarette Smoke” by Freestocks.org/ CC0 1.0

Places where smoking occurs may continue to contain particles and chemicals that can affect people with asthma.

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A new direction

Human trials next

Food becomes a lower priority

Lack of knowledge

A simple mix has gained massive attention

Many connect the drink to digestion

Olive oil contains beneficial fats

Researchers have examined its impact on heart health

Lemon provides antioxidants

Citric acid may also play a role

Experts reject special detox claims

The body already handles detoxification naturally

Some people feel fuller for longer

The drink is not a proven weight-loss solution

Some people may experience side effects

Experts consider the mixture generally safe

Clear differences

Fast method

Low vaccination rates

A serious development

Hospitals under pressure

No approved vaccine

Morning is often the best time

The body follows a circadian rhythm

The bowel is most active in the morning

Cortisol may stimulate digestion

Overnight fasting helps the body

Breakfast activates the bowel

Fibre plays an important role

Hydration is essential

Exercise can support digestion

Travel can affect the stomach

Stress can change toilet habits

Certain illnesses can affect bowel movements

Medication can change digestion

Pregnancy can slow digestion

Age affects digestion

Good morning routines can help

The body can be trained to follow regular toilet habits

Regularity matters more than timing

Not all plant foods are healthy

Lower and higher risk

Used differently

Risk of false security

Pets can affect the airways

Strong scents can cause irritation

Household chemicals may be irritating

Cold air can create problems

High temperatures may affect breathing

Smoke residue can linger indoors

Insect stings can trigger symptoms

Nitrogen dioxide can irritate the lungs

Stress can affect the body physically

Smoke can build up in homes and cars

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