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Why you should never scratch a mosquito bite, according to scientists

2. July, 2026

An itchy mosquito bite can quickly become the most annoying part of a summer day. Almost everyone has given in to the temptation to scratch, even knowing it probably isn’t the best idea.

New research now suggests that this common habit may actually make your body’s reaction much worse. The findings come from researchers at the University of Pittsburgh, published in Nature and reported by UNILAD.

An unexpected discovery

The research team was originally investigating allergic skin inflammation when they uncovered an important link between scratching and the body’s immune response. Using mice, they compared animals that could scratch irritated skin with others that wore protective collars to prevent scratching.

The difference was clear. Mice that were unable to scratch developed significantly less swelling and a much milder inflammatory response. The findings suggest that scratching itself can amplify the skin’s reaction rather than helping it heal.

Your body works against you

An insect bite triggers the release of histamine, the chemical responsible for the familiar itching sensation. Once scratching begins, additional nerve signals are activated, prompting the immune system to release even more inflammatory compounds.

Instead of calming the irritation, this process can leave the bite redder, more swollen and itchy for longer. In other words, the brief relief from scratching may come at the cost of extending the body’s recovery.

What you should do instead

Dermatologists recommend avoiding the urge to scratch whenever possible. Instead, they suggest a few simple ways to reduce discomfort:

Apply a cold compress or wrapped ice pack to the area.
Use an anti-itch cream or an antihistamine if the itching becomes bothersome.
Keep the skin clean and avoid breaking the surface, which can increase the risk of infection.

According to the researchers, most uncomplicated insect bites will settle on their own if the skin is left undisturbed. Resisting the urge to scratch may be one of the easiest ways to reduce inflammation and help the irritation disappear more quickly.

A simple tape measure test could reveal your heart disease risk

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

2. July, 2026

A simple tape measure test could reveal your heart disease risk

The risk of heart disease depends on several factors. Diet, physical activity, smoking, alcohol consumption, and conditions such as diabetes can all play a role.

For this reason, doctors recommend maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and keeping a healthy body weight.

Cardiologist David Min told EatingWell, as reported by Express, that several studies suggest a high intake of fruits such as apples, avocados, blueberries, and oranges may help reduce the risk of heart disease.

Your waist can reveal important information

According to heart surgeon Jeremy London, body weight is not the only factor that matters. Excess fat around the abdomen can be a sign of an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

He refers to a study that followed more than 500,000 people over a period of 12 years.

According to London, the findings showed that people with a high amount of visceral fat, fat surrounding the internal organs, were at greater risk of developing heart disease.

A simple test you can do at home

According to Express, Jeremy London has shared a simple method that requires nothing more than a measuring tape.

Measure your waist at the level of your navel after fully exhaling. Then measure your height.

If your waist circumference is greater than half of your height, the doctor says it may be a good idea to speak with your doctor about your risk of heart disease.

He also emphasizes that this test cannot diagnose heart disease.

It should only be used as an initial screening tool to help determine whether further medical evaluation may be appropriate.

How to sleep better in the summer heat without air conditioning

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

2. July, 2026

How to sleep better in the summer heat without air conditioning

High summer temperatures can make it difficult to get a good night’s sleep, as excessive heat often leads to poorer sleep quality and more frequent awakenings.

According to Real Simple, experts share several practical tips to help you stay cooler and sleep better, even without air conditioning.

Cool your bedroom in advance

Start cooling your bedroom one to two hours before bedtime.

Opening the windows or turning on a fan ahead of time can help the room reach a more comfortable temperature before you go to sleep.

Avoid activities that generate heat

Try to finish cooking, baking, and using the oven or other heat-producing appliances earlier in the day.

This helps prevent unnecessary heat from building up inside your home during the evening.

Keep the sun’s heat out

Close curtains, blinds, or shades during the day to reduce the amount of heat entering your home.

This can significantly limit indoor heat buildup throughout the day.

Take advantage of natural ventilation

If outdoor temperatures allow, opening the windows at night can improve airflow and create a cooler indoor environment.

Use a fan

Although a fan does not lower the room’s temperature, it can make the air feel cooler by increasing airflow.

Both ceiling fans and portable fans can provide relief during hot summer nights.

Make sure your ceiling fan rotates in the correct direction

If you have a ceiling fan, it should rotate counterclockwise during the summer.

This pushes air downward, creating a cooling breeze.

Choose a fan with an appropriate noise level

Some people sleep better with a little background noise, while others prefer complete silence.

Experts recommend considering the fan’s noise level when choosing the right model.

Turn off the fan when the room is empty

Fans should only be left on when someone is in the room.

They cool people rather than the room itself, so switching them off when the room is empty can save energy.

Use ice with a fan

Placing a bowl of ice behind a fan can create a cooler stream of air and make it easier to fall asleep.

Cool your hands, feet, or head

Ice packs, cold wet towels, or cool water applied to your hands, feet, or head can help lower your body temperature.

Choose cooling bedding

A lightweight blanket and a cooling pillow can improve comfort by promoting better airflow and reducing heat buildup during the night.

Consider a mattress cooling system

A mattress cooling system circulates chilled water through a mattress pad, helping cool both the mattress and your body while you sleep.

Take a shower before bed

A quick shower can help lower your body temperature.

According to the expert, both a cold and a warm shower can have a cooling effect once you step out of the water.

Establish a consistent sleep routine

Experts recommend going to bed at the same time every night and limiting screen time, as well as stimulating content, during the final hour before bedtime.

It is also a good idea not to charge your phone next to your bed, as it gives off heat while charging.

Scientists explore whether creatine could help treat depression

Mie Hermansen

2. July, 2026

Scientists explore whether creatine could help treat depression

Many people are willing to try almost anything to improve their mental well-being. While new medicines often dominate the conversation, researchers are also taking a closer look at familiar supplements that have long been associated with physical performance.

According to researchers from the University of Ottawa, whose review was published in Brain Medicine and highlighted by Genomic Press, creatine is now being investigated for its potential role in depression treatment, reports Science Daily.

Creatine has been a staple in the fitness world for years, but scientists are now exploring whether its benefits could extend beyond muscle growth. Although the early findings are encouraging, experts stress that the evidence is not yet strong enough to change clinical practice.

What the research found

The researchers reviewed five randomized clinical trials involving 238 participants from countries including the United States, South Korea, Brazil, Israel and India. Rather than conducting a new study, they analyzed existing research to determine whether creatine consistently improved symptoms of depression.

The results were mixed. Two studies involving women with major depressive disorder reported improved outcomes when creatine was added to standard treatment. However, three other trials found no meaningful difference between creatine and a placebo.

Why scientists are interested

Researchers believe the brain’s high energy demands may explain why creatine is worth investigating. The supplement helps cells produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the body’s main energy source, and scientists suspect this process could also influence brain function.

There is also growing interest in whether creatine affects neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which play important roles in regulating mood. However, researchers emphasize that these theories still require much stronger scientific evidence.

More research needed

The review concludes that it is too early to recommend creatine as a treatment for depression. The existing clinical trials were relatively small and differed in both design and quality, making broad conclusions impossible.

Larger and longer studies will be needed before doctors can determine whether creatine has a genuine place in depression treatment. For now, it remains a promising area of research rather than a proven solution.

Weight loss drugs may help fight migraines

Mie Hermansen

2. July, 2026

Weight loss drugs may help fight migraines

Living with migraine often means putting everyday life on hold without warning. A severe attack can disrupt work, family plans, and even simple daily activities, making the search for better treatments a priority for millions of people.

According to research presented at the American Academy of Neurology’s Annual Meeting and reported by Health, scientists are investigating whether GLP-1 medications, widely used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity, could also play a role in migraine management. While the evidence remains preliminary, the findings have attracted growing attention, reports VeryWell Health.

Fewer severe migraine episodes

An observational study involving more than 20,000 adults with migraine compared several GLP-1 medications with topiramate, a commonly prescribed preventive treatment.

People taking GLP-1 drugs were less likely to require emergency department visits or hospitalization. However, researchers emphasize that the study found an association rather than proving that the medications directly prevent migraine attacks.

More than weight loss

Scientists are also exploring why these medications may influence migraine symptoms. Smaller studies suggest some patients experienced fewer headaches even before significant weight loss occurred.

This has led researchers to investigate whether GLP-1 drugs may reduce inflammation or lower pressure around the brain, rather than relying solely on weight loss to improve symptoms.

More research is still needed

Experts caution that GLP-1 medications are not approved for migraine prevention, and current evidence is not strong enough to recommend them for off-label use. Larger placebo-controlled clinical trials are needed to confirm both their effectiveness and long-term safety.

Even so, researchers believe GLP-1 therapies could eventually become an important addition to migraine treatment, particularly for people who also live with obesity or other metabolic conditions.

For now, the findings represent an encouraging step toward expanding future treatment options.

Experts say this viral skincare trend may actually have real benefits

Mie Hermansen

2. July, 2026

Experts say this viral skincare trend may actually have real benefits

Healthy-looking skin is often associated with expensive creams and lengthy skincare routines. However, many specialists believe what you eat can be just as important as the products you apply.

According to TV 2, dermatologist and PhD Cæcilie Johansen and clinical nutrition expert Stina Dannerfjord say one of the latest social media skincare trends has more scientific support than most.

Nutrition before skincare

The trend, often referred to as “eat your skincare,” encourages people to improve their skin through diet rather than relying entirely on cosmetic products. Recently, canned sardines have become one of the most talked-about foods because they are naturally rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

According to Dannerfjord, many people consume less omega-3 than recommended. Existing research also suggests these healthy fats may help reduce inflammation in the body, a process that is believed to contribute to certain skin conditions, including acne and eczema.

No miracle solution

While experts acknowledge that a balanced diet can support healthy skin, they stress that no single food can transform your complexion overnight. Eating sardines or other oily fish should be viewed as part of an overall healthy lifestyle rather than a replacement for proven skincare habits.

They also emphasise that people with skin conditions should seek appropriate medical advice instead of relying on social media trends or dietary changes alone.

Building healthier skin

According to the experts, maintaining healthy skin is best achieved through consistent daily habits rather than chasing viral beauty trends. Their recommendations include:

Wear SPF 30 or higher when UV levels are elevated, cleanse your skin every evening, apply moisturiser after showering, eat a varied diet that includes oily fish, avoid unnecessary fragrances in skincare products and seek medical treatment for persistent skin conditions.

Although the viral sardine trend is unlikely to replace traditional skincare, the experts believe it highlights an important message: supporting your skin starts with looking after your overall health, and good nutrition should be part of that approach.

Scientists discover unexpected brain activity in life’s final moments

Mie Hermansen

2. July, 2026

Scientists discover unexpected brain activity in life’s final moments

Several research projects have examined how the brain responds during the final moments of life. The findings suggest that, in some cases, significant electrical activity occurs even after the heart has stopped, although researchers stress that much more research is needed, reports FUTURA.

Researchers are studying the brain’s final moments

Using EEG recordings, scientists are working to understand the processes that take place in the brain as life comes to an end.

Hundreds of patients took part in the study

The AWARE II study, led by Sam Parnia at NYU Langone, included 567 patients who underwent CPR at 25 different hospitals.

Only a small group survived

Just 53 patients survived cardiac arrest. Among those survivors, nearly 40 percent showed brain activity returning to a normal pattern.

Brain waves changed during resuscitation

During resuscitation, researchers detected clear changes in alpha and gamma brain waves. In healthy adults, these waves are typically associated with active thinking and advanced memory processing.

Four patients were examined in Michigan

MI scanning, hjerne — Photo: Shutterstock.com

A research team at the University of Michigan analyzed four comatose patients who died after life support was withdrawn.

Two patients stood out

In two of the four patients, gamma activity increased significantly as their heart rate changed, while the remaining patients showed no comparable pattern.

Multiple brain regions were active at the same time

The recorded signals appeared in synchrony across brain regions associated with dreaming and visual processing.

The findings challenge previous assumptions

The measurements suggest that the brain does not necessarily shut down in a gradual, linear process but may instead go through a brief period of heightened activity.

An earlier study found a similar pattern

A 2022 case study described an 87 year old patient who, during a fatal heart attack, showed increased gamma activity alongside slower theta waves.

Small studies limit the conclusions

Researchers emphasize that studying dying patients is extremely challenging. As a result, current knowledge is based on a limited number of recordings and relatively small studies.

Survivors described vivid memories

Several people who survived cardiac arrest in the AWARE II study reported clear and coherent memories from the resuscitation process. According to the researchers, these accounts differ from the hallucinations commonly associated with delirium.

Brain activity continues in the final moments

Researchers stress that the recorded brain waves do not provide evidence of a supernatural experience. Instead, the findings indicate that, in some cases, the brain continues to display complex electrical activity during the final moments before the body’s biological functions come to an end.

Researchers discover surprising link between stepping speed and longevity

Mie Hermansen

2. July, 2026

Researchers discover surprising link between stepping speed and longevity

Most people never think about how quickly they react when taking their first step. It is an automatic movement that happens countless times each day, yet researchers believe it could provide valuable insight into how well the body is ageing.

According to a new study by Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, published in the journal Gerontology, this overlooked action may help identify older adults at greater risk of declining health, reports UNILAD.

How the study worked

Researchers followed 120 community-dwelling adults aged 65 and older for between 10 and 17 years. Rather than measuring overall walking speed alone, they focused on how quickly participants could initiate a step after receiving a signal.

Participants completed both a simple stepping task and a more demanding test that required them to perform a cognitive exercise while stepping.

The researchers found the dual-task assessment provided the clearest indication of long-term health outcomes because it challenged both the brain and the body’s movement systems simultaneously.

Why it matters

The study found that every additional 100 milliseconds needed to begin a step during the dual-task test was associated with a 28 percent higher risk of mortality over the follow-up period.

According to the research team, slower reactions may reflect how effectively the brain coordinates movement while processing information.

As people age, muscle strength, balance, joint flexibility and cognitive processing naturally decline. Together, these changes can increase the likelihood of falls, injuries and loss of independence, making mobility an important indicator of overall health.

More research is needed

The researchers emphasise that the findings show an association rather than proving that slower step initiation directly shortens life expectancy. They also note that the study involved a relatively small number of participants, meaning larger studies are needed to confirm the results.

However, previous research has shown that balance, coordination and reaction speed can improve through targeted exercise and rehabilitation.

The team believes similar assessments could eventually help healthcare professionals identify older adults who may benefit from early intervention to maintain mobility and healthy ageing.

Mystery parasite outbreak leaves US health officials searching for answers

Mie Hermansen

2. July, 2026

Mystery parasite outbreak leaves US health officials searching for answers

Most foodborne illnesses are caused by bacteria that can often be traced back to a specific product within days. Parasites are different. They are harder to detect, more difficult to track through the food chain and can leave investigators searching for answers long after the first people become ill.

That is the situation now facing U.S. health authorities, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), reports UNILAD.

Cases continue to rise

Federal officials have confirmed 145 Cyclospora infections across 17 states, with at least 20 people requiring hospital care. No deaths have been reported.

Investigators believe the outbreak originated inside the United States because none of the confirmed patients had travelled abroad before developing symptoms. That has shifted the focus toward a contaminated domestic food or water source distributed across multiple states.

Fresh produce in focus

Although the source has not yet been identified, the CDC says previous Cyclospora outbreaks have repeatedly been linked to fresh produce. Leafy greens, herbs and berries have all been associated with earlier investigations.

Unlike bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli, Cyclospora cayetanensis depends on humans as its only known host. Crops may become contaminated if they are exposed to water polluted with human waste or handled under poor sanitary conditions during production.

Why diagnosis matters

Illness usually develops between two days and two weeks after exposure and may include persistent diarrhoea, abdominal pain, nausea, bloating, fatigue and weight loss. Without treatment, symptoms can continue for weeks or even months.

The CDC also warns that standard stool examinations may not detect the parasite. For that reason, doctors may need to request specialised laboratory testing before patients can receive the targeted antibiotic treatment used against Cyclospora infections.

This is the best breakfast for a healthy liver

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

1. July, 2026

This is the best breakfast for a healthy liver

The liver works continuously to remove waste products, produce bile, and help supply the body with energy.

According to Parade, liver specialist Susan Kais says that the first meal of the day can help support liver health when it is properly balanced.

Eggs and oatmeal are the best choice

According to liver specialist Susan Kais, a combination of eggs and a bowl of oatmeal topped with fresh berries and nuts or seeds is the best breakfast for supporting liver health.

Eggs

Eggs contain both protein and choline, which support liver function while also providing energy and promoting satiety.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is rich in fiber, which may help reduce fat accumulation in the liver while supporting healthy blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

Fiber

Research published in Frontiers in Public Health suggests that a high-fiber diet may reduce the risk of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease.

Berries

Fresh berries are rich in antioxidants, which may help prevent liver inflammation and limit fat accumulation.

Nuts and seeds

Nuts and seeds contain antioxidants, protein, and unsaturated fats, all of which have been linked to lower levels of liver fat and a reduced risk of fatty liver disease.

Avocado toast is a good alternative

Whole-grain toast topped with avocado is another healthy option because avocado contains both healthy fats and dietary fiber that may help support liver function.

Hummus on whole-grain bread is also recommended

Whole-grain bread topped with hummus provides both protein and fiber, which can support digestion and the liver’s natural detoxification processes.

Green smoothies may benefit the liver

Smoothies made with leafy green vegetables such as spinach or kale provide antioxidants and nutrients that may help reduce liver inflammation.

Ultra-processed breakfast foods should be limited

Breakfast products that are high in added sugar and calories may increase fat accumulation in the liver over time while offering limited nutritional value.

Processed meat

Breakfasts that include bacon, sausages, or other processed meats often contain unhealthy fats and preservatives, which may contribute to weight gain when consumed regularly.

Whole fruit is better than fruit juice

Fruit juice lacks the dietary fiber found in whole fruit and can therefore cause more rapid increases in blood sugar levels.

For this reason, eating whole fruit is recommended instead of drinking fruit juice.

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An unexpected discovery

Your body works against you

What you should do instead

Your waist can reveal important information

A simple test you can do at home

Cool your bedroom in advance

Avoid activities that generate heat

Keep the sun’s heat out

Take advantage of natural ventilation

Use a fan

Make sure your ceiling fan rotates in the correct direction

Choose a fan with an appropriate noise level

Turn off the fan when the room is empty

Use ice with a fan

Cool your hands, feet, or head

Choose cooling bedding

Consider a mattress cooling system

Take a shower before bed

Establish a consistent sleep routine

What the research found

Why scientists are interested

More research needed

Fewer severe migraine episodes

More than weight loss

More research is still needed

Nutrition before skincare

No miracle solution

Building healthier skin

Researchers are studying the brain’s final moments

Hundreds of patients took part in the study

Only a small group survived

Brain waves changed during resuscitation

Four patients were examined in Michigan

Two patients stood out

Multiple brain regions were active at the same time

The findings challenge previous assumptions

An earlier study found a similar pattern

Small studies limit the conclusions

Survivors described vivid memories

Brain activity continues in the final moments

How the study worked

Why it matters

More research is needed

Cases continue to rise

Fresh produce in focus

Why diagnosis matters

Eggs and oatmeal are the best choice

Eggs

Oatmeal

Fiber

Berries

Nuts and seeds

Avocado toast is a good alternative

Hummus on whole-grain bread is also recommended

Green smoothies may benefit the liver

Ultra-processed breakfast foods should be limited

Processed meat

Whole fruit is better than fruit juice

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