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New study suggests ticks favor certain individuals

23. April, 2026

There’s something about warmer days that pulls people outside. Walks in the park, time in the garden, or a quiet afternoon in nature suddenly become part of everyday life again. But with that shift comes a small, often overlooked risk.

According to research from Masaryk University, scientists are taking a closer look at what actually draws ticks to humans, reports Deník.cz

Their findings suggest that it may not be entirely random who gets bitten more often.

What attracts ticks

Ticks are known carriers of infections such as Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis.

They become active when temperatures rise above just a few degrees, meaning early spring already marks the start of the season.

In a controlled laboratory study, researchers observed how ticks reacted to different blood samples. The results indicated a noticeable pattern in their choices.

Surprising preference

The study showed that ticks were most frequently drawn to blood type A. Types 0 and AB followed, while type B appeared to be the least attractive.

However, experts stress that these findings come with limitations. The experiment took place under laboratory conditions, which do not fully reflect real-life environments where many other factors influence tick behavior.

Stay protected

Researchers and medical professionals emphasize that blood type alone does not determine risk. Time spent outdoors, clothing, and surroundings all play a role in exposure.

To reduce the chance of bites, experts recommend:

Using insect repellent
Wearing long sleeves and covered clothing
Checking the body after being outdoors

Even with new insights, caution remains essential throughout the warmer months.

How milk can affect your body if you drink it every day

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

23. April, 2026

How milk can affect your body if you drink it every day

Milk has long been debated, but research shows that it may offer several health benefits.

Here is an overview of what actually happens in the body with daily consumption, according to EatingWell.

Strengthens your bones

Milk contains both calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for building and maintaining strong bones.

Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, which may help prevent osteoporosis.

Good source of protein

Milk serves as a vegetarian source of protein, contributing to the body’s building and maintenance of muscles and tissues.

Supports weight loss or weight balance

The combination of carbohydrates, protein, and fat in milk makes it filling, which can help regulate hunger and support a healthy weight.

Provides energy for the body

The carbohydrates in milk provide energy, helping the body function optimally in everyday life.

Increases satiety

Protein and fat in milk can make you feel fuller after consumption, which may make it easier to eat a balanced diet.

Does not necessarily negatively affect weight

Research published in The New England Journal of Medicine shows that milk and dairy products do not lead to weight gain, but not necessarily to weight loss either.

Impact on type 2 diabetes

A study published in Clinical Nutrition indicates that milk did not show an increased effect in developing prediabetes.

However, the results are not consistent. For example, another study published in Cardiovascular Endocrinology & Metabolism found a positive association between the development of prediabetes and milk consumption.

Effect on heart health

There are conflicting results, but some studies, such as one published in Nutrition & Metabolism, show that dairy products may be associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.

May contribute to better brain function

Milk consumption has been linked in a study published in Nutrients to a lower risk of cognitive decline and diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

Provides important nutrients

A glass of milk contains vitamin B12, calcium, and potassium, as well as protein and fat, all of which are important for the body.

Problems with lactose intolerance

People lacking the enzyme lactase may experience digestive issues when consuming milk, as they are unable to break down lactose.

Relevant in case of allergy

Milk allergy may make it necessary to completely avoid milk and dairy products.

Cancer risks

Research published in Nutrients suggests that high intake may be associated with a lower risk of certain cancers, such as colorectal cancer, while the link to other types of cancer remains unclear.

Can be used in many dishes

Milk is a versatile ingredient that can be used in smoothies, soups, sauces, and desserts to provide a creamy consistency.

Sources: EatingWell, The New England Journal of Medicine, Clinical Nutrition, Cardiovascular Endocrinology & Metabolism, Nutrition & Metabolism, and Nutrients.

Can an orange a day affect fatty liver? A new study examines the effect

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

23. April, 2026

Can an orange a day affect fatty liver? A new study examines the effect

Fatty liver is a condition often associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes, and an unhealthy lifestyle.

It affects the body’s ability to process fat and, in the worst cases, can lead to serious liver damage.

Researchers know that different types of dietary fats play a role. Some fatty acids may worsen the condition, while others may have a protective effect.

Diet is therefore an important part of treatment, and research is focusing on which foods may make a difference, according to News-Medical.

Orange study

In a study published in the journal Nutrients, 60 people with fatty liver took part in a trial in Italy.

They were between 30 and 65 years old and also had other risk factors such as obesity or diabetes.

The participants were divided into two groups. One group ate 400 grams of oranges every day for four weeks, while the other group did not.

Both groups received dietary guidance and were instructed, among other things, to limit alcohol and certain foods. Researchers took blood samples before and after the trial.

What did the results show?

The results did not show clear differences between the two groups. However, researchers observed small changes among those who ate oranges.

There was, among other things, a slight tendency toward lower cholesterol levels and minor changes in fatty acids, which may be relevant to inflammation in the body.

The study suggests that oranges may have a modest effect on the body’s fat metabolism, but this has not yet been fully proven.

More research is needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.

Sources: News-Medical and Nutrients.

Can you drink Pepsi Max with a clear conscience? Here’s the answer

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

23. April, 2026

Can you drink Pepsi Max with a clear conscience? Here’s the answer

Sugar-free soft drinks seem like a healthy choice because they contain no sugar and almost no calories.

According to Voedingscentrum, as reported by Women’s Health, this is exactly why they have a better reputation than regular soda.

However, calories do not tell the whole story. It is also important to consider what the product contains in terms of nutrients such as vitamins, fiber, and minerals that the body needs.

Not black and white

Many people think that food is either healthy or unhealthy, but that is not how it works in reality.

Voedingscentrum explains that a product can be a better choice without necessarily being healthy.

Sugar-free soft drinks do not contain sugar, but they also do not provide anything the body needs.

At the same time, they contain acids that can damage teeth, which is why they are not part of the official dietary guidelines.

How much can you drink?

Sweeteners in soft drinks often spark debate. According to Voedingscentrum, there are limits to how much can be consumed, and these limits are difficult to reach with normal intake.

This means it is generally safe to drink them occasionally. Nevertheless, it is recommended to choose water, tea, or coffee without sugar on a daily basis.

Sugar-free soft drinks are not a healthy choice in themselves, but they are not necessarily a problem if consumed once in a while.

Sources: Voedingscentrum and Women’s Health.

How chicken can affect your body if you eat it every day

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

22. April, 2026

How chicken can affect your body if you eat it every day

Chicken is a popular source of protein that many people eat regularly. But what does it actually mean for the body if it becomes a daily habit?

Here are the key insights based on research and nutrition information from EatingWell.

Essential amino acids

Chicken contains all nine essential amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own. These are necessary for building important proteins in the body.

Supports important bodily functions

Proteins from chicken contribute to the production of hormones, immune cells, and muscle growth, all of which are crucial for the body’s functioning.

Easier to meet protein needs

A serving of chicken of about 113 grams provides around 35 grams of protein, making it easier to meet daily requirements.

Cells and muscles

Protein helps the body repair and build cells, including muscle tissue, and is therefore a central part of the diet.

Protein requirements

The recommended protein intake depends on body weight and life stage, and requirements may change over time.

Healthy metabolism

Chicken contains several B vitamins such as niacin, thiamin, and folate, which are important for metabolism.

B vitamins must be consumed daily

These vitamins are water-soluble and are not stored in the body, making daily intake necessary.

May support weight loss

A higher protein intake can increase the feeling of fullness, making it easier to control appetite.

Satiety can reduce calorie intake

Feeling full for longer may help reduce overall food intake and support weight loss goals, according to a study published in Nutrients.

Contains several nutrients

In addition to protein, chicken contains selenium, phosphorus, and vitamin B3, all of which play a role in the body’s functioning.

Different cuts have different nutrition

Chicken breast contains less fat and more protein, while chicken thighs contain more fat and have a higher calorie content.

Lack of variety

If chicken is the only protein source, you may miss out on other important nutrients from a varied diet.

Lack of healthy fats

Lean chicken contains very little fat, which can lead to a low intake of essential fatty acids such as omega-3.

Healthy fats

To achieve a more balanced diet, you can add fat sources such as olive oil or avocado alongside chicken.

Variety in protein sources is important

Other protein sources such as fish, eggs, legumes, and nuts provide different nutrients and should be included in the diet.

Variety also makes meals more interesting

Switching between different protein sources can both improve nutrition and make meals more interesting.

Sources: EatingWell and Nutrients.

Health experts warn of symptoms as rotavirus spreads

Mie Hermansen

22. April, 2026

Health experts warn of symptoms as rotavirus spreads

You know that uneasy feeling when a child suddenly gets sick and you’re not sure if it’s something minor or the start of something more serious.

It’s a worry many families share, especially during colder months when viruses tend to circulate more aggressively.

Health researchers and surveillance groups, including data tracked by WastewaterScan and guidance from the CDC, are now pointing to a noticeable rise in rotavirus infections across parts of the United States, reports Unilad.

The increase has caught attention because it appears higher than the same period last year.

Rising concern

Rotavirus is not new, but its resurgence is raising questions among health professionals.

It spreads easily through contaminated surfaces and hand-to-mouth contact, making it particularly difficult to contain in households and childcare settings.

Historically, vaccination programs significantly reduced severe cases. Experts now suggest that lower vaccination uptake in some areas may be contributing to the renewed spread and preventable hospital visits.

Symptoms to watch

The infection typically develops quickly, often within a couple of days. It primarily affects the digestive system and can escalate fast, especially in young children.

Common warning signs include:

Frequent watery diarrhea
Vomiting
Fever and stomach pain
Signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, low urination, or fatigue

Medical professionals stress that dehydration is the most dangerous complication, particularly for infants and toddlers.

Treatment reality

There is no targeted cure for rotavirus. Because it is viral, antibiotics offer no benefit. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing dehydration through fluids or, in severe cases, hospital care.

Public health agencies emphasize that vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure, reducing both severity and spread.

New research: The pace determines how healthy your exercise is

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

22. April, 2026

New research: The pace determines how healthy your exercise is

Daily activities such as walking and cycling have become a regular part of many people’s routines.

At the same time, figures from RIVM, according to Gezondnu, indicate that more hours of sedentary work may lead to increasing rates of overweight in the future.

Working from home in particular has changed activity levels. This makes it more important to incorporate movement as a regular part of daily life.

What does the research show?

A study from April 2026, published in the journal European Heart Journal, analyzed data from hundreds of thousands of people in the United Kingdom.

Different forms of physical activity were compared with the risk of diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and dementia.

The analysis shows that it is not only the amount of exercise that matters; the way you move also plays a role in your health.

The key difference

The results suggest that a small portion of daily activity should be more intensive.

People who moved at a slightly faster pace had a lower risk of several diseases.

This means that it is not necessarily about spending more time exercising. Instead, short periods of higher intensity can make a difference.

For example, this could involve walking slightly faster for a few minutes at a time.

Sources: Gezondnu, RIVM, and European Heart Journal.

Patrick Muldoon’s death highlights heart attack warning signs

Mie Hermansen

22. April, 2026

Patrick Muldoon’s death highlights heart attack warning signs

A sudden loss has drawn attention to a medical emergency that often strikes without much warning.

For many, the early symptoms can be easy to overlook or misinterpret in everyday life.

The death of a well-known actor has now prompted renewed focus on how to recognise the signs and act quickly when it matters most, according to LADbible.

A sudden loss

Actor Patrick Muldoon died on Sunday at the age of 57 after reportedly suffering a heart attack, according to Deadline.

A friend described him as “stylish, charismatic, and full of life,” while also remembering his warmth and generosity.

Tributes highlighted his personality, with the same source adding he was “endlessly generous” and “embraced each day with a full-tilt, rock ’n’ roll spirit.”

Muldoon built his career in the 1990s, gaining recognition in Saved by the Bell before appearing in Days of Our Lives, Melrose Place and films including Starship Troopers.

Understanding the risk

Health authorities such as the NHS explain that heart attacks occur when blood flow to the heart is blocked, most often by a clot. This interruption can cause serious damage if not treated immediately.

Risk factors include smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes and family history, according to public health guidance.

The British Heart Foundation notes that symptoms can differ widely between individuals and may not always be obvious or severe at first.

Warning signs

Common symptoms linked to heart attacks include:

Chest pain or pressure spreading to arm, neck or jaw
Shortness of breath
Nausea or vomiting
Indigestion-like discomfort
Sweating or pale skin

Muldoon had recently shared his excitement about a new film project shortly before his death, highlighting the unexpected nature of such events.

Final tributes

Following the news, fans shared messages online remembering his work and personality. Muldoon is survived by his partner and parents.

His death has also renewed calls for greater awareness of cardiovascular health and early symptom recognition.

Seeing your own blood vessels could help reduce cardiovascular risk, study finds

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

22. April, 2026

Seeing your own blood vessels could help reduce cardiovascular risk, study finds

Cardiovascular diseases are among the most common causes of death and are often linked to atherosclerosis.

Risk factors such as an unhealthy lifestyle, high blood pressure, and cholesterol play a central role, according to a press release from VIA at Umeå University in Sweden.

Although these diseases can often be prevented, many people find it difficult to relate to their personal risk.

Numbers and written information are not always sufficient to create understanding.

Ultrasound images of blood vessels can help reveal early signs of atherosclerosis before symptoms appear. When these images are shown to patients, the risk becomes more tangible.

A new study from Sweden has examined this in two groups of people.

New study from Sweden

A new study published in European Heart Journal Open included approximately 3,500 people aged 40 to 60 in Sweden.

Participants were divided into two groups with different types of information.

One group was shown images of their blood vessels, received information about their risk, and participated in discussions with healthcare professionals. Their doctors also had access to the results.

The other group did not initially have access to this information and instead followed standard care in the healthcare system.

Results over time

After one and three years, the group that received images and consultations had a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and showed better progress in several health factors.

After six years, the other group had caught up after also being shown images and participating in discussions.

The study shows that it is particularly the combination of visual images and dialogue that, over time, can encourage more people to change their lifestyle and adhere to treatment.

Sources: VIA and European Heart Journal Open.

This happens in your body if you eat soy every day

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

22. April, 2026

This happens in your body if you eat soy every day

Soy products such as tofu, tempeh, and soy milk are included in certain diets, but their effects on the body are still debated.

Research points to both benefits and aspects to be aware of with daily intake, according to EatingWell.

High-quality protein

Soy contains protein that the body uses to build and repair muscles, skin, hair, and tissues, as well as to produce hormones and enzymes.

Tofu and edamame are especially rich in protein

One cup of edamame provides about 18.4 grams of protein, while half a cup of firm tofu provides approximately 21.8 grams.

You can nearly meet your daily protein needs

By eating both edamame and tofu, it is possible to come close to the recommended daily protein intake for an adult.

It may reduce the risk of heart disease

A study published in Circulation found that people who ate tofu at least once a week had an 18 percent lower risk of heart disease.

Your LDL cholesterol may decrease

A daily intake of 25 grams of soy protein for six weeks was associated with a reduction in “bad” LDL cholesterol by 3 to 4 percent, according to a study published in The Journal of Nutrition.

The results are not conclusive

Some studies have not found a clear effect, so there is still debate about soy’s role in lowering cholesterol.

Soy contains little saturated fat

Edamame and tofu contain very low amounts of saturated fat and can therefore serve as alternatives to animal-based proteins.

Isoflavones may affect the body

Soy contains isoflavones, which are natural plant estrogens that can mimic estrogen in the body, although with a weaker effect.

Menopause

A study published in Menopause shows that soy intake may reduce hot flashes in some individuals.

Lower cancer risk

Research published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Research suggests that isoflavones may be associated with a lower risk of certain cancers, such as colorectal cancer.

Soy is the main source of isoflavones

Among all foods, soy contains the highest levels of these plant compounds.

You get isoflavones through typical portions

For every gram of soy protein, you get approximately 3.5 mg of isoflavones, which can quickly add up to a significant amount.

Iron absorption may be lower

Although soy contains iron, it is absorbed less efficiently than iron from animal sources.

Vegetarians may have lower iron stores

People who primarily follow a plant-based diet may have a higher risk of iron deficiency, according to a study published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition.

You may need to consume more iron

Vegetarians and vegans are advised to consume up to 1.8 times more iron than people who eat meat.

Large amounts of soy are not enough on their own

It can be difficult to meet your full iron needs with soy alone, so dietary variety is important.

More research is still needed

Although soy has several potential benefits, uncertainty remains, and further studies are necessary.

Sources: EatingWell, Circulation, The Journal of Nutrition, Menopause, Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, and Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition.

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What attracts ticks

Surprising preference

Stay protected

Strengthens your bones

Good source of protein

Supports weight loss or weight balance

Provides energy for the body

Increases satiety

Does not necessarily negatively affect weight

Impact on type 2 diabetes

Effect on heart health

May contribute to better brain function

Provides important nutrients

Problems with lactose intolerance

Relevant in case of allergy

Cancer risks

Can be used in many dishes

Orange study

What did the results show?

Not black and white

How much can you drink?

Essential amino acids

Supports important bodily functions

Easier to meet protein needs

Cells and muscles

Protein requirements

Healthy metabolism

B vitamins must be consumed daily

May support weight loss

Satiety can reduce calorie intake

Contains several nutrients

Different cuts have different nutrition

Lack of variety

Lack of healthy fats

Healthy fats

Variety in protein sources is important

Variety also makes meals more interesting

Rising concern

Symptoms to watch

Treatment reality

What does the research show?

The key difference

A sudden loss

Understanding the risk

Warning signs

Final tributes

New study from Sweden

Results over time

High-quality protein

Tofu and edamame are especially rich in protein

You can nearly meet your daily protein needs

It may reduce the risk of heart disease

Your LDL cholesterol may decrease

The results are not conclusive

Soy contains little saturated fat

Isoflavones may affect the body

Menopause

Lower cancer risk

Soy is the main source of isoflavones

You get isoflavones through typical portions

Iron absorption may be lower

Vegetarians may have lower iron stores

You may need to consume more iron

Large amounts of soy are not enough on their own

More research is still needed

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