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Can damaged kidneys heal? New study offers hope

1. July, 2026

The kidneys have a limited ability to repair themselves after severe injury, which can lead to chronic kidney disease.

Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles have therefore investigated what slows the body’s natural healing process.

In a study published in Cell Stem Cell, the researchers found that people with chronic kidney disease had higher levels of the protein ENPP1 in their kidney tissue than healthy individuals.

This prompted the researchers to investigate the protein’s role in greater detail, according to SciTechDaily.

Protein slows healing

Experiments in mice showed that ENPP1 disrupts the cells’ energy production, making it more difficult for the kidneys to repair themselves after injury.

Mice that did not produce ENPP1 developed less scar tissue and had better kidney function than mice that produced the protein.

According to the researchers, this suggests that ENPP1 is a key factor in the slow healing process.

A drug offers new hope

The researchers also tested the drug AD NP1, which was originally developed to treat heart damage.

In the mouse studies, the drug blocked ENPP1, and the treated mice showed improved kidney function and less scar tissue than the untreated mice.

The drug has already been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for a Phase 1 clinical trial for heart disease.

The researchers now hope to investigate whether it can also be tested as a treatment for kidney disease in humans.

For now, however, the findings are based solely on animal studies, and clinical trials will be required before the treatment can be used in patients.

One hour in the sun left her fighting for her life

Mie Hermansen

1. July, 2026

One hour in the sun left her fighting for her life

Most people see a sunny afternoon as the perfect opportunity to relax outdoors. But during periods of extreme heat, a seemingly harmless nap can quickly turn into a medical emergency. According to reporting by LADbible, one family’s experience has become a stark reminder of the dangers.

A peaceful afternoon

The incident involved an 82-year-old woman from San Tan Valley, Arizona, who was spending time at her local community pool earlier this month. She sat down on a metal chair to enjoy the sunshine but accidentally fell asleep for about an hour while temperatures climbed above 40°C.

Other visitors eventually noticed that she was unresponsive. They moved her into the shade and tried to cool her down while emergency crews rushed to the scene.

A critical condition

According to the local reports, doctors diagnosed her with severe heatstroke, extensive burns covering around 30 percent of her body and multiple organ failure. Medical staff also determined that the overheated metal chair had caused serious contact burns in addition to the damage from the intense sun.

She required intensive treatment, including a ventilator, dialysis and several operations to remove damaged tissue. More procedures, including skin grafts, are expected during her recovery.

A warning for others

Although her condition has improved in recent days, she remains in hospital and faces a lengthy rehabilitation. Her family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover medical expenses while encouraging others to take extreme heat more seriously.

Health experts continue to warn that older adults are especially vulnerable during heatwaves. Staying hydrated, limiting time in direct sunlight and avoiding hot metal surfaces are among the simplest ways to reduce the risk of heat-related illness.

How extreme heat can affect your body

Mie Hermansen

1. July, 2026

Several days of extreme heat can put significant strain on your body and make it harder to maintain a normal body temperature. If your body can no longer get rid of excess heat, it can develop into a serious medical emergency, reports Weather.

Heat stroke is the biggest danger

Heat stroke is a life threatening condition. According to the physician, untreated heat stroke can be fatal, making immediate medical attention essential if it is suspected.

Confusion is an important warning sign

If you suddenly struggle to concentrate or become unusually confused, it may be a sign of heat stroke. You should get out of the heat as quickly as possible.

Move to a cooler place immediately

If you begin to overheat, the first step is to find an air conditioned space. If that is not possible, sitting inside a car with working air conditioning is a better option than remaining outdoors.

Water can help cool the body

If simply getting out of the heat is not enough, immersing your body in water may help lower your body temperature more effectively.

Stopping sweating is a serious warning

If you are extremely hot and suddenly stop sweating, it could signal that heat stroke is developing and should be treated as an emergency.

Your body first tries to get rid of excess heat

As your body temperature rises, your heart rate increases slightly and the blood vessels near the skin widen to help release heat.

Blood is redirected toward the skin

Increasing blood flow to the skin allows more heat to escape from the body’s core, helping protect vital organs from overheating.

Sweating is one of the body’s main cooling systems

Sweat is one of the first tools your body uses to regulate its temperature. As it evaporates, it helps cool the skin and reduce body heat.

Dehydration can make things worse

After several hours in the heat, your body may lose more fluids than you replace, increasing the risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.

Blood flow is redistributed

When the body becomes extremely hot, it may reduce blood flow to some organs in order to direct more blood toward the skin and improve heat loss.

High temperatures can last around the clock

Photo: Lasse Johansson / Shutterstock.com

During prolonged periods of extreme heat, temperatures can remain high during both the day and the night. High humidity also makes it more difficult for sweat to evaporate, reducing the body’s ability to cool itself.

Millions take blood pressure medication – study points to possible heart risk

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

1. July, 2026

Millions take blood pressure medication – study points to possible heart risk

Researchers analyzed registry data from Denmark and the Netherlands to investigate whether there is a link between blood pressure medication and out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

According to TCTMD, as cited by LADBible, the findings indicate a possible increased risk associated with one particular medication.

However, the researchers believe the results need to be confirmed by further studies.

Experts from the European Society of Cardiology also stated, according to LADBible, that the findings are not sufficient reason for patients to discontinue their treatment.

The risk applies to high doses

The potential increased risk applies to high doses of nifedipine of at least 60 milligrams per day.

According to TCTMD, the Dutch data showed a 45 percent higher risk of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, while the Danish data indicated an almost twofold increase in risk.

Nifedipine has been used by millions of patients for many years to treat high blood pressure and angina.

The researchers therefore recommend that patients with concerns speak with their doctor and not change their treatment based on this study alone.

Not all medications show the same pattern

The study also compared amlodipine, which belongs to the same class of drugs.

According to EurekAlert, the researchers did not find the same association with cardiac arrest for amlodipine.

Another study, cited by Knowridge, also suggests that short-acting nifedipine at moderate to high doses may be associated with higher mortality in patients with coronary artery disease.

However, the researchers emphasize that there is still insufficient evidence regarding the long-term effects.

Changes in your dog’s gait may reveal early dementia

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

1. July, 2026

Changes in your dog’s gait may reveal early dementia

A new study published in the journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science examined 88 senior dogs to determine whether the way they walk is linked to age-related changes in the brain.

The dogs underwent both physical and neurological examinations, while their owners answered questions about their behavior and cognitive health.

Researchers also measured the dogs’ stride length and walking speed as they walked at their normal pace over a short distance, according to HealthDay.

Several factors may be involved

The study found that changes in a dog’s gait are not always caused by problems in the brain.

Pain caused by conditions such as arthritis or neck disorders can also affect the dog’s movement.

For that reason, the researchers recommend that dog owners have their pets examined by a veterinarian if they notice any changes in the way they walk.

Although there is currently no cure for canine dementia, the researchers say that an early diagnosis may allow owners to adapt their dog’s daily routine and improve the animal’s quality of life.

Stride length

The study found that the dogs’ front-leg stride length became shorter as their cognitive function declined.

This association was stronger than the changes that could be explained by aging alone.

The researchers did not observe the same pattern in the hind legs. They therefore conclude that a shorter front-leg stride may be an early indicator of dementia in older dogs.

How to keep children safe from common Fourth of July burn injuries

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

1. July, 2026

How to keep children safe from common Fourth of July burn injuries

The Fourth of July is often celebrated with fireworks, barbecues, and family gatherings.

According to HealthDay, these traditions also bring a higher risk of burn injuries, especially for children.

Experts say families should think about safety before the celebrations begin.

The American Red Cross also recommends taking extra care around fire and heat during holiday events.

Hidden dangers

Some common holiday items can be more dangerous than they appear.

Johns Hopkins Medicine explains according to HealthDay that sparklers can become hotter than 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

Because of this, young children should never hold them, while older children should only use them with close adult supervision.

Grills, fire pits, and tabletop fire pits can stay hot for a long time after the flames are gone.

Experts recommend keeping children at least three feet away from these areas and cooling hot embers with water before leaving them unattended.

If someone is burned, the injured area should be cooled with running water for about 20 minutes.

Medical care is recommended for burns on the face, hands, feet, genitals, or large parts of the body.

A safer choice

Consumer fireworks are one of the main causes of serious injuries to the hands, face, and eyes during the holiday, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.

For that reason, experts recommend watching a public fireworks display instead of using fireworks at home.

The main message is that most burn injuries in children can be prevented.

Taking a few simple precautions before the celebration can help families enjoy the holiday more safely.

How bananas may help relieve constipation

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

1. July, 2026

How bananas may help relieve constipation

Bananas are often mentioned in discussions about constipation, but research suggests a different picture than many people assume, according to Healthline.

Dietary fiber

A medium-sized banana contains just over 3 grams of dietary fiber, which can help soften stools and make them easier to pass.

Soluble and insoluble fiber

Bananas provide both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber.

Soluble fiber absorbs water, helping to make stools larger and softer, while insoluble fiber adds bulk and may stimulate bowel movements.

More fiber may ease constipation

For most people, increasing dietary fiber intake can help reduce constipation.

Resistant starch

Unripe bananas contain large amounts of resistant starch, which functions in a way similar to dietary fiber.

Resistant starch reaches the colon

Resistant starch is not broken down in the small intestine. Instead, it passes into the colon, where it serves as food for beneficial gut bacteria.

Beneficial fatty acids

When gut bacteria break down resistant starch, they produce short-chain fatty acids that support digestive health and may have positive effects on metabolism.

Green bananas may help with constipation

A 2019 study published in the Jornal de Pediatria found that green bananas, when used alongside laxatives, helped children and adolescents with constipation.

At the same time, it was possible to reduce the amount of laxatives required.

Ripe bananas contain less resistant starch

As bananas ripen, some of the resistant starch is converted into other carbohydrates.

There is no evidence

Although some people believe that bananas can cause constipation, studies have not confirmed this association.

Bananas are part of the BRAT diet

Bananas are included in the BRAT diet, which some healthcare professionals recommend for diarrhea or vomiting because the foods are easy to digest.

May help with diarrhea

Although bananas can be beneficial during episodes of diarrhea, Healthline notes that there is no strong evidence showing that they cause constipation.

May support digestive health

Bananas may have a prebiotic effect by supporting beneficial gut bacteria and promoting their growth.

Animal studies suggest additional benefits

A 2020 study published in the Journal of Food Biochemistry found that dietary fiber from bananas increased the number of beneficial gut bacteria in mice, reduced weight gain, and improved intestinal function.

Speak with a healthcare professional

If bananas appear to make constipation worse, Healthline recommends speaking with a doctor or a registered dietitian, who can help identify the underlying cause and provide guidance on the most appropriate treatment.

New report reveals: Five Americans die every hour due to air pollution

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

1. July, 2026

New report reveals: Five Americans die every hour due to air pollution

A new study highlights just how significant its effects can be.

More Americans have become concerned about how pollution affects their health, according to The Guardian.

At the same time, previous research by the American Lung Association found that nearly half of the U.S. population breathes air containing harmful levels of pollution.

This has increased support for stricter regulations aimed at reducing emissions from road traffic.

Children hit hardest

Researchers measured pollution from road traffic and used established scientific methods to estimate its impact on human health.

According to a study conducted by the International Council on Clean Transportation, the United States records more new cases of childhood asthma linked to vehicle-related air pollution than any other country.

The researchers also estimate that a faster transition to electric cars, electric buses, and electric trucks could prevent more than 100,000 premature deaths and over 42,000 new cases of childhood asthma by 2050, compared with current projections.

Serious consequences

Meanwhile, The Guardian reports that the current U.S. administration has rolled back several environmental measures designed to encourage the adoption of zero-emission vehicles.

Road traffic-related air pollution in 2024 is associated with more than 41,800 premature deaths in the United States.

That is equivalent to around five people dying every hour as a result of road traffic-related air pollution, according to the International Council on Clean Transportation.

Check your bag: These common medicines are banned in several countries

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

1. July, 2026

Check your bag: These common medicines are banned in several countries

According to The Sun, as cited by Nyheder 24, travelers should research the regulations in the country they plan to visit.

A prescription issued in your home country is not always sufficient, and some countries require special authorization for certain types of medication.

It is also recommended that you keep your medication in your carry-on luggage, in its original packaging, and, if it is prescription medication, carry a doctor’s certificate whenever possible.

Some countries have very strict rules

Several countries have specific regulations covering medications that many people use every day.

In the United Arab Emirates, some sleeping medications require prior approval, even if they have been prescribed by a doctor.

CBD products are also prohibited in countries including Japan, Singapore, China, and the United Arab Emirates.

According to the authorities, bringing these products into the country can lead to serious legal consequences.

These types of medication may be restricted

The Sun highlights five types of medication that travelers should pay particular attention to: antihistamines for allergies, painkillers containing codeine, certain sleeping medications, CBD products, and ADHD medication.

For example, Japan prohibits several allergy medications as well as certain ADHD medications.

Codeine is also banned or strictly regulated in more than 25 countries, including several European countries.

Authorities therefore advise travelers to check the regulations for their destination before packing their medication.

Doing so can also help avoid problems at the border.

How to make your bowel movements more regular

Body

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

30. June, 2026

How to make your bowel movements more regular

Maintaining a regular bowel routine is not always easy.

According to Verywell Health, several everyday habits can support digestion and help make bowel movements more regular.

Keep a regular routine

Try to eat your meals at roughly the same time every day, and set aside time for a toilet visit after breakfast or other large meals.

Eat more fiber

Fiber adds bulk to stool, making it easier to move through the intestines.

Vegetables, fruit, and whole grains are all excellent sources of fiber.

Get the recommended amount of fiber

Verywell Health recommends around 25 grams of fiber per day for women and 38 grams per day for men, although individual needs may vary.

Drink enough fluids

Staying well hydrated can soften stool, making it easier to pass, according to a study published in BMC Public Health.

Sit correctly on the toilet

A squatting position can help the muscles relax and make it easier to empty the bowels.

Limit low-fiber foods

A diet high in processed foods and low in fiber can make stools harder and bowel movements less regular.

Be mindful of certain foods

Refined grains, dairy products, tender cuts of meat, bananas, and cooked or canned fruit are all relatively low in fiber, according to a study published in the International Journal of Surgery.

Avoid excessive alcohol

Heavy alcohol consumption can contribute to dehydration, making it more difficult to maintain regular bowel movements.

Prioritize a consistent sleep schedule

A regular sleep-wake cycle can support the body’s natural rhythms, including healthy bowel function.

Stay active every day

Light physical activity can promote healthy digestion. Certain yoga poses may also provide additional benefits.

Use supportive treatments when necessary

Suppositories, enemas, or laxatives may be used for short-term relief under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Biofeedback may be an option

Biofeedback therapy can help train the muscles involved in bowel movements, improving coordination between pushing and relaxation, according to a study published in the Turkish Journal of Gastroenterology.

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Protein slows healing

A drug offers new hope

A peaceful afternoon

A critical condition

A warning for others

Heat stroke is the biggest danger

Confusion is an important warning sign

Move to a cooler place immediately

Water can help cool the body

Stopping sweating is a serious warning

Your body first tries to get rid of excess heat

Blood is redirected toward the skin

Sweating is one of the body’s main cooling systems

Dehydration can make things worse

Blood flow is redistributed

High temperatures can last around the clock

The risk applies to high doses

Not all medications show the same pattern

Several factors may be involved

Stride length

Hidden dangers

A safer choice

Dietary fiber

Soluble and insoluble fiber

More fiber may ease constipation

Resistant starch

Resistant starch reaches the colon

Beneficial fatty acids

Green bananas may help with constipation

Ripe bananas contain less resistant starch

There is no evidence

Bananas are part of the BRAT diet

May help with diarrhea

May support digestive health

Animal studies suggest additional benefits

Speak with a healthcare professional

Children hit hardest

Serious consequences

Some countries have very strict rules

These types of medication may be restricted

Keep a regular routine

Eat more fiber

Get the recommended amount of fiber

Drink enough fluids

Sit correctly on the toilet

Limit low-fiber foods

Be mindful of certain foods

Avoid excessive alcohol

Prioritize a consistent sleep schedule

Stay active every day

Use supportive treatments when necessary

Biofeedback may be an option

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