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How diet soda can affect your body if you drink it every day

28. April, 2026

Diet soda can seem like a smarter choice than regular soft drinks, but drinking it every day may affect more than just your calorie intake. According to Eat This, Not That!, research highlights several ways it can influence both your body and your habits over time.

Daily intake can have unintended effects

Drinking diet soda every day, especially multiple cans, may have negative consequences for some people. While it contains no sugar, regular consumption can still influence how the body responds over time.

It starts with what’s inside the drink

Diet soda contains artificial sweeteners like aspartame, along with ingredients such as phosphoric acid, caffeine, and caramel coloring that shape its taste and shelf life.

Approved ingredients don’t equal health benefits

Although these components are considered safe within recommended limits, that does not necessarily mean they support long term health when consumed daily.

It can shift your taste preferences

Over time, artificially sweetened drinks may alter how you perceive sweetness. This can make you more likely to crave sugary foods throughout the day.

Cravings may lead to more calories overall

As cravings for sweet foods increase, total calorie intake may rise as well, meaning a zero calorie drink could indirectly contribute to higher energy consumption.

Your gut may also be affected

Some research suggests that frequent intake may influence the balance of bacteria in the gut, which plays a role in overall health.

Blood sugar responses could change

There are indications that artificial sweeteners may impact how the body regulates blood sugar, although the exact relationship is still being studied.

Possible links to metabolic health

Higher consumption has been associated in some studies with an increased risk of metabolic issues, though lifestyle factors may also play a role.

The science is still evolving

Many of these findings are not yet fully understood, and more research is needed to determine clear cause and effect relationships.

Caffeine can build up during the day

Because diet soda contains caffeine, drinking several cans may affect sleep quality or increase feelings of restlessness in sensitive individuals.

Acidity may take a toll on teeth

The acidic nature of the drink can gradually wear down tooth enamel, which may increase the risk of dental problems over time.

Moderation and alternatives matter

Experts recommend limiting daily intake and choosing water, sparkling water, or other unsweetened drinks for regular hydration, especially if consumption has become a daily habit.

Researchers find new indicator of death within 24 hours

Mie Hermansen

28. April, 2026

Researchers find new indicator of death within 24 hours

Not knowing how much time is left can be one of the hardest parts of serious illness. Families wait, watch, and wonder, while doctors rely on experience and subtle physical changes to guide decisions in those final hours.

According to research published in BMJ Supportive and Palliative Care and led by Dr Jung Hun Kang at Gyeongsang National University Hospital, a small physical response may help indicate when death is very close, reports Unilad.

The study focused on patients already receiving end-of-life care, where predicting timing remains difficult.

A quiet indicator

The research followed over 100 hospice patients with advanced cancer. Medical teams monitored typical signs such as breathing shifts, skin color changes and declining awareness.

Alongside these, they assessed a reflex linked to the eye, which normally causes an automatic blink when touched.

A clear pattern

The findings showed that patients who no longer reacted were far more likely to die within 24 hours.

This loss appeared to signal a breakdown in essential brain function during the final stage of life.

Researchers noted that while the sign was strongly linked to imminent death, it should not be used alone to make definitive predictions.

Looking ahead

Further studies are planned to confirm the results in broader populations. There is also growing interest in using technology to detect subtle physical changes earlier and more accurately.

The aim is to give patients and families clearer guidance, helping ensure comfort and dignity at the end of life.

Researchers explore vitamin D’s role in breast cancer treatment

Mie Hermansen

28. April, 2026

Researchers explore vitamin D’s role in breast cancer treatment

A quiet routine many people barely think about—getting enough vitamins—might hold more influence over serious illness than expected.

For those navigating cancer treatment, even small daily habits can feel like they carry enormous weight.

According to research from São Paulo State University, funded by Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP), scientists are now looking closely at something surprisingly simple, reports Science Daily.

A simple addition

In a clinical study involving 80 women over 45, researchers tested whether adding vitamin D to chemotherapy could make a measurable difference.

Participants were divided into two groups, with one receiving a daily supplement while the other took a placebo.

All patients underwent chemotherapy before surgery, a standard approach aimed at shrinking tumors.

After six months, the group receiving vitamin D showed notably stronger outcomes. A significantly higher proportion experienced complete disappearance of detectable cancer compared to those without supplementation.

Why it matters

Vitamin D is commonly associated with bone strength, but its role in immune defense is gaining attention.

Many cancer patients begin treatment with low levels of the vitamin, which may influence how the body responds to therapy.

Researchers highlighted several possible advantages:

Supports immune system activity
May enhance response to treatment
Widely available and low-cost

This positions vitamin D as a potentially accessible support tool, especially compared to more expensive medical interventions.

Still early days

Despite promising results, scientists emphasize that the study was relatively small. Larger trials are needed to confirm how much impact vitamin D truly has on chemotherapy effectiveness and whether results apply broadly.

The findings suggest potential—but not certainty. For now, experts see this as a starting point rather than a finished solution.

Scientists develop film that breaks down viruses

Mie Hermansen

28. April, 2026

Scientists develop film that breaks down viruses

It happens dozens of times a day without much thought. Hands move from phone to keyboard, from door handle to table surface, carrying invisible traces along the way.

Most of it goes unnoticed, but the idea that everyday objects could actively fight back against microbes is beginning to shift how researchers think about hygiene.

According to researchers at RMIT University in Australia, a new type of plastic may soon turn common surfaces into active barriers against viruses, rather than passive carriers, reports Science Daily.

A surface that fights back

The team has developed a transparent, ultra-thin plastic layer designed to physically damage viruses the moment they land. Instead of relying on chemical coatings, the material works through its structure.

Its surface is covered in microscopic pillars, far too small to see, which interact directly with viral particles. When a virus touches the film, these structures stretch its outer layer until it breaks apart.

This approach marks a shift from traditional antiviral materials, which often depend on metals or chemical agents that can wear off or require maintenance.

Tested in the lab

In controlled experiments using a respiratory virus linked to illnesses like pneumonia, the material showed strong results. Within an hour, the vast majority of viral particles were no longer able to infect cells.

The researchers highlight that the material is based on acrylic, making it flexible and suitable for large-scale production.

This could allow it to be applied to everyday items such as screens or medical equipment.

Key findings from the study include:

Around 94% of virus particles were neutralized within 60 minutes
Performance depended heavily on the spacing of microscopic structures
The material can be manufactured using existing industrial methods

Why spacing matters

One of the most important discoveries was not the height of the tiny pillars, but how closely they are arranged.

When positioned tightly together, multiple pillars can act on a single virus at once, increasing the mechanical stress.

The most effective configuration involved spacing of roughly 60 nanometers. When that distance increased, the antiviral effect dropped significantly.

The research builds on earlier work with rigid materials but shows that flexible plastics can achieve similar, or even better, outcomes when engineered correctly.

Researchers say the goal is practical use, from consumer electronics to healthcare environments, where reducing surface transmission could have a meaningful impact.

How almonds affect your blood pressure if you eat them every day

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

27. April, 2026

How almonds affect your blood pressure if you eat them every day

Almonds are not only an easy snack but are also linked to several health benefits.

According to Verywell Health, research particularly points to a positive effect on blood pressure with regular consumption.

High blood pressure is a serious risk factor

Elevated blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease, among other conditions.

Effect on blood pressure

Several scientific studies show that regular consumption of almonds can lower blood pressure, especially diastolic blood pressure, which is the lower number.

Magnesium and potassium

These minerals in almonds help dilate blood vessels, contributing to lower blood pressure.

Healthy fats

Almonds contain unsaturated fats that promote the production of nitric oxide, helping blood vessels relax.

Vitamin E reduces stress in the body

Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant and reduces oxidative stress, which can otherwise lead to narrower blood vessels.

Analysis from 2020

A review of 16 studies involving more than 1,000 participants, published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine, showed that almonds reduced diastolic blood pressure by an average of 1.3 mmHg.

Effect at lower doses

The 2020 study also found that individuals with low systolic blood pressure experienced improvements even with smaller amounts of almonds.

Analysis from 2022

An analysis of 26 studies involving more than 1,700 participants, published in Phytotherapy Research, confirmed that almonds have a clear effect in lowering diastolic blood pressure.

Fiber affects gut bacteria

The fiber in almonds promotes beneficial gut bacteria, which produce compounds that may help lower blood pressure, according to a study published in Current Hypertension Reports.

Increases satiety

The combination of protein, fat, and fiber makes almonds filling, which can support weight loss, according to a study published in Nutrients, and may thereby indirectly lower blood pressure.

Low salt content

Almonds naturally contain very little salt, which is important, as high salt intake can increase blood pressure.

Improves cholesterol levels

Almonds can lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, reducing buildup in the blood vessels and supporting healthy blood pressure.

Diet plays an important role

Lifestyle changes, including diet, are central to both the prevention and treatment of high blood pressure.

The DASH diet

The DASH diet recommends nuts, fruits, and vegetables, along with limited salt intake, to help lower blood pressure.

Almonds fit in

Almonds contain many of the nutrients that characterize the DASH diet and also have a low content of salt and saturated fat.

Recommended amount of almonds

Research suggests that around 35 almonds can provide health benefits.

Choose unsalted varieties

It is recommended to choose unsalted or lightly salted almonds to keep salt intake low.

Be aware of allergies

People with nut allergies should avoid almonds, as they are a tree nut.

Sources: Verywell Health, Complementary Therapies in Medicine, Phytotherapy Research, Current Hypertension Reports, and Nutrients.

How to make an easy and healthy alternative to butter

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

27. April, 2026

How to make an easy and healthy alternative to butter

For many people, bread with a spread is a staple part of the diet. Butter, cheese-based spreads, and avocado are often the go-to options.

However, according to Teknologijos.lt, there is growing interest in trying new alternatives.

The focus is particularly on adding variety to the diet without making it more complicated.

At the same time, there is increasing demand for options that also provide beneficial nutrients.

What does it contain?

A paste made from sunflower seeds is highlighted as a nutritious choice. It contains plant-based protein, which is important for the body, especially with age.

In addition, it provides vitamins such as E and B, which are important for both the nervous system and metabolism.

Minerals such as iron, magnesium, and zinc also play a role in the body’s functions.

The healthy fats found in the seeds are associated with supporting both heart and brain health.

At the same time, certain compounds are mentioned that may help regulate cholesterol levels.

Easy to make

According to the article, the paste can be prepared by soaking and blending sunflower seeds with ingredients such as dried tomatoes, garlic, and oil.

This creates a smooth mixture that can be used on bread or in other dishes.

One advantage is that you control the ingredients yourself, making it possible to adjust both taste and nutritional content.

This type of spread is presented as an alternative to classic dairy products and, in some cases, as a substitute for cottage cheese.

Sources: Teknologijos.lt.

Around half of AI health responses are misleading

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

27. April, 2026

Around half of AI health responses are misleading

A study published in BMJ Open has analyzed five widely used chatbots and their responses to medical questions.

According to the study, around half of the answers were assessed as problematic, while a smaller proportion constituted serious errors.

Only a few questions were rejected by the systems.

The results also showed that performance varied depending on the topic.

Areas with a strong research base, such as cancer and vaccines, produced fewer errors, while nutrition and exercise more often led to imprecise answers, according to The Conversation.

Issues with sources

A central challenge lies in the use of references. The study documents that citations were often incomplete or misleading.

The average completeness of references was around 40 percent, and no chatbot consistently provided accurate source lists.

According to the researchers, this can be particularly problematic, as structured references may create an impression of credibility even when the content is not verified.

At the same time, open-ended questions were identified as a significant risk factor, as they more often led to misleading answers.

The role of humans

Other studies support this picture. Research from Nature Medicine shows that chatbots can often generate correct answers, but users reach correct conclusions in less than a third of cases.

Similarly, analyses from JAMA Network Open and Communications Medicine show that models either overlook diagnoses or propagate incorrect concepts.

Overall, the findings suggest that the challenge lies not only in the technology but in the interaction between system and user.

Chatbots can serve as a supplement to information-seeking, but should not be used as independent medical authorities.

Sources: The Conversation, BMJ Open, Nature Medicine, JAMA Network Open and Communications Medicine.

Analysis of 18 studies finds increased risk of stroke among people with chronic pain

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

27. April, 2026

Analysis of 18 studies finds increased risk of stroke among people with chronic pain

Researchers from Högskolan Dalarna and the Karolinska Institutet have reviewed 18 international studies and published the results in the journal Pain, according to Forskning.se.

They examined a potential connection between pain and disease.

The researchers combined the findings and conducted new calculations across the studies.

The focus is on individuals who have experienced pain in multiple parts of the body for at least three months without a clear cause.

This type of pain is often compared to fibromyalgia, according to Högskolan Dalarna.

Twice the risk

People with long-term body pain have nearly twice the risk of developing a heart attack or stroke compared with individuals without pain, the study shows.

When it comes to the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease, the results are more uncertain. Some studies indicate an increased risk, but not all point in the same direction.

At the same time, this type of pain is not yet included in official guidelines for assessing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Possible implications for treatment

The researchers believe that healthcare systems should pay greater attention to individuals with long-term pain.

This could, for example, mean more frequent monitoring of blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels in this group.

Early detection is important, as many cardiovascular diseases can be prevented through treatment and lifestyle changes.

Sources: Forskning.se and Pain.

Tired of potatoes? Try this forgotten root vegetable

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

27. April, 2026

Tired of potatoes? Try this forgotten root vegetable

A root vegetable that is less well known today has been used in the Nordic countries for several hundred years.

According to Frukt.no and KK, it was already mentioned in a Norwegian gardening book from 1694.

It arrived in Europe before the potato and was once a common part of the diet.

However, during the 19th century, it was pushed aside as the potato became more widespread.

Today, it is not as commonly found in stores, but it is slowly making a comeback.

Easy to use

The root vegetable is easy to grow and can even be cultivated in a pot. It requires little maintenance and can survive through the winter.

It can be used in many ways in cooking. It can be boiled, baked, or eaten raw. The taste is mild and slightly nutty, and the texture is crisp.

According to Frukt.no, it works well in soups, purées, and hot dishes. It can also be made into chips.

A healthy choice

In addition to its flavor, it offers several nutritional benefits. It contains little fat but provides both protein and dietary fiber.

It also contains potassium, which is important for blood pressure, and folate, which may help reduce fatigue, according to Frukt.no.

This vegetable is the Jerusalem artichoke, once an important crop in the Nordic region.

Sources: KK and Frukt.no.

Tick-borne encephalitis: Understanding TBE and how to stay protected

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

27. April, 2026

Tick-borne encephalitis: Understanding TBE and how to stay protected

TBE (tick-borne encephalitis) is a serious but rare viral infection transmitted through tick bites that can affect the brain.

Here is an overview of what TBE is and how you can protect yourself, according to Netdoktor.

What is TBE?

TBE is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the brain and the meninges.

It is transmitted through bites from infected ticks, which themselves acquire the virus from animals such as mice, deer, and birds.

Where is TBE found?

The disease occurs in large parts of Central and Northern Europe.

When is the risk highest?

TBE typically occurs from March to November, with the highest number of cases during the summer months.

Ticks thrive better in warmer climates, which has increased their spread in Northern Europe.

Risk of infection

The risk depends on location, as the proportion of infected ticks varies between 0.1 and 5 percent across Europe.

How is the diagnosis made?

The diagnosis is made through a blood test that checks for antibodies against the virus. Many patients do not notice the tick bite, making testing necessary.

First phase of the disease

After infection, symptoms typically appear after about a week. The first phase resembles influenza, with fever, headache, muscle pain, and fatigue.

Second phase of the disease

In some patients, the disease progresses after a symptom-free period to affect the nervous system, potentially causing meningitis, encephalitis, or inflammation of nerve tissue.

Who is most severely affected?

Many recover fully, but up to 40 percent of those with encephalitis may experience long-term complications.

People over the age of 60 are often more severely affected than children.

Treatment of TBE

There is no specific treatment once the disease has developed. Prevention is therefore recommended, especially in high-risk areas.

Protection against tick bites

The risk can be reduced by covering the skin with clothing and using insect repellent.

It is also recommended to remove ticks quickly, as transmission can occur shortly after a bite.

Vaccination against TBE

The vaccine is given in three doses over time and provides protection for several years.

It is recommended for individuals who stay in high-risk areas or engage in activities with an increased risk of tick bites.

Side effects of vaccination

The vaccine is generally well tolerated but may cause redness, swelling, and fever, especially in children. It provides a high level of protection after the full vaccination course.

Sources: Netdoktor.

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Daily intake can have unintended effects

It starts with what’s inside the drink

Approved ingredients don’t equal health benefits

It can shift your taste preferences

Cravings may lead to more calories overall

Your gut may also be affected

Blood sugar responses could change

Possible links to metabolic health

The science is still evolving

Caffeine can build up during the day

Acidity may take a toll on teeth

Moderation and alternatives matter

A quiet indicator

A clear pattern

Looking ahead

A simple addition

Why it matters

Still early days

A surface that fights back

Tested in the lab

Why spacing matters

High blood pressure is a serious risk factor

Effect on blood pressure

Magnesium and potassium

Healthy fats

Vitamin E reduces stress in the body

Analysis from 2020

Effect at lower doses

Analysis from 2022

Fiber affects gut bacteria

Increases satiety

Low salt content

Improves cholesterol levels

Diet plays an important role

The DASH diet

Almonds fit in

Recommended amount of almonds

Choose unsalted varieties

Be aware of allergies

What does it contain?

Easy to make

Issues with sources

The role of humans

Twice the risk

Possible implications for treatment

Easy to use

A healthy choice

What is TBE?

Where is TBE found?

When is the risk highest?

Risk of infection

How is the diagnosis made?

First phase of the disease

Second phase of the disease

Who is most severely affected?

Treatment of TBE

Protection against tick bites

Vaccination against TBE

Side effects of vaccination

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