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13. July, 2026

Simple sunscreen tips for better UV protection

Using the right amount of sunscreen, and applying it correctly, makes a significant difference in how well your skin is protected from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Here are the most important facts about effective sun protection, according to the Arizona Skin Cancer Foundation.

Sunscreen should be reapplied

Applying sunscreen once is not enough. It should be reapplied every two hours to maintain effective protection throughout the day.

Reapply after swimming or sweating

If you have been swimming, sweating heavily, or drying off with a towel, you should reapply sunscreen immediately, even if the product is water-resistant.

SPF measures protection against UVB rays

SPF indicates how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, which are the primary cause of sunburn and also contribute to the development of skin cancer.

No sunscreen blocks all UV radiation

Even sunscreens with a very high SPF cannot block 100 percent of the sun’s UV rays. Additional forms of sun protection are still important.

Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen

A sunscreen labeled as broad-spectrum protects against both UVA and UVB rays, offering more complete protection from sun damage.

UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin

UVA rays reach the deeper layers of the skin, where they can contribute to premature aging and increase the risk of skin cancer.

Shorter UVA wavelengths may also contribute to sunburn.

UVB rays affect the skin’s surface

UVB rays primarily damage the outer layer of the skin, causing sunburn and contributing to the development of skin cancer.

Protect yourself in multiple ways

In addition to sunscreen, experts recommend seeking shade and wearing protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to reduce UV exposure.

Adjust your protection to your activities

The type and level of sun protection you need should depend on your activities and your individual risk of developing skin cancer.

The recommended amount

U.S. health authorities recommend applying approximately 2 milligrams of sunscreen per square centimeter of skin to achieve the level of protection indicated by the product’s SPF.

A simple rule of thumb for the whole body

For the average adult, this equals about 30 milliliters of sunscreen, roughly the amount that fits in a standard shot glass.

Your face and neck each need their own application

Fugtighedscreme — Photo: Shutterstock.com

About one-quarter of a teaspoon of sunscreen is recommended for the face.

The neck should receive the same amount to ensure adequate protection.

Most people do not apply enough

According to the Arizona Skin Cancer Foundation, research shows that most people apply only 25 to 50 percent of the recommended amount of sunscreen.

As a result, they receive significantly less protection than they expect.

New research links walking speed to lower risk of cognitive decline

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

13. July, 2026

New research links walking speed to lower risk of cognitive decline

It takes only a few seconds to measure how fast a person walks. For that reason, researchers believe walking speed could become a useful tool in healthcare.

The measurement may help identify older adults who should undergo further evaluation for memory or thinking problems, Medical News Today reports.

However, the researchers emphasize that walking slowly is not, by itself, a sign of dementia.

Walking speed should always be assessed alongside a person’s overall health.

The Body Works Together

When we walk, the brain, muscles, vision, balance, and nervous system work closely together.

As a result, a change in walking speed may be an early sign that the body or brain is no longer functioning as well as it once did.

According to the researchers, regular physical activity, strength training, adequate sleep, a healthy diet, and treatment for conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes may help support both physical and brain health.

Lower risk of cognitive decline

The study, published in Neurology, followed people in their 80s and compared their walking speed with the results of memory tests and brain scans.

The data were drawn from three large research projects.

The study found that people with a naturally faster walking speed had about a 50 percent lower risk of cognitive decline than those who walked more slowly.

The researchers also stress that the study does not prove that walking faster can prevent dementia.

The findings show only an association between walking speed and brain health.

Parkour gains popularity among older adults – here’s why

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

13. July, 2026

Parkour gains popularity among older adults – here’s why

A growing number of researchers see potential in using parkour as a training method for older adults.

According to Business Insider, the exercises can improve balance, leg strength, coordination, and the ability to move safely in everyday life.

At the same time, Shawn Soh of the Singapore Institute of Technology emphasizes that the training is not suitable for everyone.

Older adults with conditions such as osteoporosis or other health issues should have their physical fitness assessed before starting, Business Insider reports.

Exercises tailored to participants

Parkour coach Tan Shie Boon runs several weekly classes in Singapore.

Participants are typically between 50 and 70 years old, and the exercises are adapted to each individual’s physical abilities, according to Business Insider.

During the sessions, participants practice balance, strength, and how to safely navigate small obstacles.

Several participants have been attending the classes since 2018.

The goal is to prevent falls

The idea originated in 2017 when Tan Shie Boon met a 64-year-old woman who asked whether parkour could help improve her balance.

After several months of training, she felt more confident while walking, Business Insider reports.

Her story generated significant interest among other retirees.

The goal is to teach older adults how to maintain their balance, move safely, and get back on their feet after a fall.

According to Business Insider, falls are the leading cause of injuries among people over the age of 65, and preventing them is the primary aim of the training.

Artificial sweeteners linked to metabolic changes in new research review

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

13. July, 2026

Artificial sweeteners linked to metabolic changes in new research review

Artificial and low-calorie sweeteners are found in many sugar-free products.

For many years, they have been regarded as a healthier choice because they provide a sweet taste without adding many calories.

Now, a new review of existing research, published in the journal Current Atherosclerosis Reports, suggests there may be reason to examine their effects more closely, HealthDay reports.

The gut may play a role

The researchers reviewed 21 clinical trials in which artificial sweeteners were compared with water or a placebo.

This allowed them to better assess the sweeteners’ direct effects on the body, according to HealthDay.

The researchers also suggest that changes in gut bacteria may be one possible explanation.

Previous research has shown that some artificial sweeteners may affect the gut microbiome.

Not without risk

Artificial and low-calorie sweeteners were associated with higher fasting insulin levels, higher HbA1c levels, which reflect average blood sugar levels over time, and a trend toward lower insulin sensitivity.

At the same time, the researchers conclude that sweeteners may still be a better choice than consuming large amounts of sugar, but they should not be regarded as entirely risk-free.

The review also found an association between a high intake of artificial sweeteners and an increased risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

However, the researchers emphasize that more research is needed before it can be determined whether the sweeteners themselves are responsible.

New research: High salt intake may affect memory

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

13. July, 2026

New research: High salt intake may affect memory

Researchers followed more than 1,200 older Australians with normal memory and cognitive function over a six-year period.

Participants answered questions about their diet and completed tests of memory, attention, language, and other cognitive abilities every 18 months.

The study was published in the journal Neurobiology of Aging and was reported by Prevention.

Indirect effects on the brain

A high salt intake is already known to increase the risk of high blood pressure.

According to dietitians Jennifer Pallian and Lauri Wright, it can damage blood vessels and increase inflammation in the body, Prevention reports.

Over time, this may affect brain function and memory.

Neurologist Alexander Zubkov also told Prevention that consuming too much sodium may reduce blood flow to areas of the brain that are important for memory.

The World Health Organization recommends that adults consume less than 2,000 milligrams of sodium per day.

One group stood out

The researchers did not find a clear link between high salt intake and poorer cognitive abilities across all participants.

However, when they analyzed men and women separately, a difference emerged.

Older men with a high salt intake experienced a greater decline in episodic memory, which is the ability to remember personally experienced events.

According to the researchers, the study cannot prove that salt is the cause because it is an observational study.

However, the findings support existing evidence suggesting that a high salt intake may affect brain health over time.

How eating green bananas affects your body

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

13. July, 2026

How eating green bananas affects your body

Green bananas may look unripe, but that does not necessarily make them a poor choice.

Experts told Fox News that both green and ripe bananas offer health benefits, depending on your nutritional needs.

Green bananas are still worth eating

Even if a banana stays green for a long time, it can still be perfectly edible and provide valuable nutrients.

Early harvesting can affect ripening

If bananas are harvested before they are mature enough, they may struggle to develop the ideal flavor and texture.

The shape can reveal ripeness

According to an expert, less ripe bananas tend to have more angular edges, while ripe bananas are typically more rounded.

Cold temperatures can stop the ripening process

Storage or transportation at temperatures that are too low can interfere with a banana’s natural ripening process.

Cold damage can keep bananas green

Exposure to cold can cause bananas to remain green or greenish-yellow, even after extended storage.

The right temperature is important

Experts told Fox News that bananas should ideally be stored at temperatures between 13°C and 15°C (55°F to 59°F) to prevent damage and allow normal ripening.

Both types contain important nutrients

Both green and ripe bananas provide potassium, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and a range of other essential nutrients.

Green bananas contain more resistant starch

Green bananas contain higher levels of resistant starch, which is digested more slowly and functions in a way that is similar to dietary fiber.

They are less sweet

Because of their higher resistant starch content, green bananas generally have a less sweet taste than ripe bananas.

They may have a gentler effect on blood sugar

According to a dietitian speaking to Fox News, green bananas may have a more moderate impact on blood sugar levels than ripe bananas.

Ripening converts starch into sugar

As bananas ripen, much of their resistant starch is gradually converted into natural sugars.

Ripe bananas are softer and sweeter

As a banana ripens, it becomes softer in texture and sweeter in flavor. Many people also find ripe bananas easier to digest.

The best choice depends on your needs

If you are looking for more resistant starch or want to better manage your blood sugar levels, a green banana may be the better option.

If you prefer a sweeter fruit that is gentler on the stomach, a ripe banana may be the better choice.

Consider your overall diet, not just the banana’s color

The dietitian also recommends viewing bananas as part of your overall diet rather than focusing solely on whether they are green or ripe.

Study of 2.4 million cases finds men more likely to receive late cancer diagnosis

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

13. July, 2026

Study of 2.4 million cases finds men more likely to receive late cancer diagnosis

A U.S. study published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, based on 2.4 million cancer cases, found that men are more likely than women to be diagnosed with cancer after the disease has already spread to the lymph nodes or other organs.

The researchers compared cancers detected at an early stage with cancers that had already spread.

Several possible explanations

The researchers point to several possible reasons for the difference. One is that women generally visit the doctor more often than men, which may lead to symptoms being detected earlier.

Cancer screening may also play a role in certain types of cancer.

At the same time, the researchers believe that, in some cases, men and women may be assessed differently within the healthcare system.

Why more men die from cancer

The study found that men are more likely to be diagnosed with advanced cancers of the tongue, thyroid gland, salivary glands, stomach, and melanoma.

Only a small number of cancer types showed men to be less likely than women to receive a late diagnosis.

The researchers believe the findings may help explain why more men than women die from cancer.

When the disease is detected at a later stage, it is often more difficult to treat.

The researchers therefore emphasize that regular medical check-ups can help detect cancer earlier.

Certain contraceptives linked to increased risk of brain tumors in new study

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

13. July, 2026

Certain contraceptives linked to increased risk of brain tumors in new study

Danish researchers analyzed data from women aged 15 to 59 over a 25-year period.

The aim was to investigate whether the use of hormonal contraception could be linked to the development of meningiomas, the most common type of brain tumor in adults, according to The Sun.

The study included 1,473 women diagnosed with meningiomas and 14,717 women without the condition.

Information on contraceptive use was obtained from the Danish National Prescription Registry, and the findings were published in JAMA Network Open.

The risk is small

The researchers emphasized that more studies are needed before the observed association can be explained.

Other experts also pointed out that the overall risk is very low and that the study does not provide sufficient evidence to justify changes to current clinical practice.

They also stressed that contraception remains an important tool for preventing unintended pregnancies and that decisions about contraceptive methods should be made in consultation with a doctor.

Some types showed a higher risk

The study found that some progestin-only contraceptives were associated with a higher risk of meningiomas than in women who did not use hormonal contraception.

The highest risk was observed among women who received medroxyprogesterone acetate injections.

An association was also found for certain types of combined oral contraceptive pills, progestin-only pills, and hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs).

The risk was highest among women who were using the contraceptives at the time of the study or had used them within the previous year.

For most contraceptive products, the increased risk disappeared within five years after treatment had been discontinued.

Dietitians warn against combining coffee and grapefruit

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

13. July, 2026

Dietitians warn against combining coffee and grapefruit

Many people start their day with a cup of coffee. While that is not necessarily a problem, what you eat alongside it can make a difference.

According to several dietitians interviewed by Parade, food can influence how the body absorbs caffeine.

For example, eating a meal can slow the absorption of caffeine, which may help reduce feelings of jitteriness and discomfort.

Some people should be especially cautious

Experts also point out that certain foods can affect how the body breaks down both caffeine and specific types of medication.

As a result, caffeine may remain active in the body for longer than usual. At the same time, some medications may also stay in the body for an extended period.

This includes certain cholesterol-lowering drugs, blood pressure medications, and medicines used to treat heart rhythm disorders.

People taking medication should therefore consult their doctor or pharmacist if they are unsure.

Coffee can also cause heartburn in some people. The risk may increase if coffee is consumed together with acidic foods, particularly on an empty stomach.

This fruit may prolong the effects of caffeine

The fruit experts are warning about is grapefruit.

According to the dietitians cited, both grapefruit and grapefruit juice may cause the body to take longer to break down caffeine.

For some people, this may lead to jitteriness, heart palpitations, or sleep disturbances.

However, research published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology has not reached a definitive conclusion, and the effect does not appear to be the same for everyone.

If you are particularly sensitive to caffeine or take medication known to interact with grapefruit, it may be a good idea to avoid combining the two.

Early warning signs in your stomach that could signal cancer

Mie Hermansen

13. July, 2026

Early warning signs in your stomach that could signal cancer

Stomach cancer can initially cause symptoms that are easy to mistake for common digestive problems. A gastroenterologist is urging people to pay attention to warning signs that keep coming back, reports LADbible.

Common symptoms can hide a serious illness

According to Dr. Yoga Andredi, many people believe stomach cancer only causes severe pain. He explains that the disease often begins with much more subtle symptoms.

An aggressive form of cancer

The doctor describes stomach cancer as an aggressive disease, adding that an early diagnosis can improve the chances of successful treatment.

A burning sensation in the stomach

Persistent burning or discomfort in the stomach may be an early warning sign, especially if the symptoms continue over a longer period.

When indigestion does not improve

If indigestion or acid reflux does not get better despite using common remedies, the symptoms should be investigated further, according to the doctor.

Feeling full very quickly

Another possible sign is becoming full after eating only a small amount of food, even when you would normally have a bigger appetite.

The stomach may hold less food

Dr. Andredi explains that a growing tumour can reduce the stomach’s capacity and affect how it functions.

Unexplained weight loss

Losing weight without changing your diet or exercise routine can be one of the early symptoms of stomach cancer.

Loss of appetite

A reduced appetite is one reason why people with stomach cancer may begin to lose weight, the doctor says.

Persistent nausea

Ongoing nausea or a constant feeling that you may vomit should not be ignored if it continues.

Vomiting may occur

As the disease progresses, the tumour can affect how the stomach fills and empties, which may lead to episodes of vomiting.

Black stools

Bleeding in the stomach can result in black stools because the blood changes as it passes through the digestive system.

Blood loss may lead to anaemia

According to the doctor, bleeding from the stomach can cause a low red blood cell count due to blood loss, making it an important warning sign.

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Sunscreen should be reapplied

Reapply after swimming or sweating

SPF measures protection against UVB rays

No sunscreen blocks all UV radiation

Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen

UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin

UVB rays affect the skin’s surface

Protect yourself in multiple ways

Adjust your protection to your activities

The recommended amount

A simple rule of thumb for the whole body

Your face and neck each need their own application

Most people do not apply enough

The Body Works Together

Lower risk of cognitive decline

Exercises tailored to participants

The goal is to prevent falls

The gut may play a role

Not without risk

Indirect effects on the brain

One group stood out

Green bananas are still worth eating

Early harvesting can affect ripening

The shape can reveal ripeness

Cold temperatures can stop the ripening process

Cold damage can keep bananas green

The right temperature is important

Both types contain important nutrients

Green bananas contain more resistant starch

They are less sweet

They may have a gentler effect on blood sugar

Ripening converts starch into sugar

Ripe bananas are softer and sweeter

The best choice depends on your needs

Consider your overall diet, not just the banana’s color

Several possible explanations

Why more men die from cancer

The risk is small

Some types showed a higher risk

Some people should be especially cautious

This fruit may prolong the effects of caffeine

Common symptoms can hide a serious illness

An aggressive form of cancer

A burning sensation in the stomach

When indigestion does not improve

Feeling full very quickly

The stomach may hold less food

Unexplained weight loss

Loss of appetite

Persistent nausea

Vomiting may occur

Black stools

Blood loss may lead to anaemia

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