Asthma is often linked to pollen and dust, but many ordinary things at home and in daily life can also irritate the airways. Several of these triggers may go unnoticed until symptoms begin to worsen.
Pets can affect the airways
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Proteins from animals can be found in fur, skin, urine, and saliva. In people with allergies, this may lead to irritation and asthma symptoms.
Strong scents can cause irritation
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Perfume, cleaning products, and other heavily scented items may irritate the airways and make symptoms more noticeable.
Household chemicals may be irritating
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Products such as paint, cleaning supplies, cosmetics, and air fresheners can affect people with sensitive airways.
Cold air can create problems
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Dry and cold winter air may irritate the lungs and lead to increased discomfort for people with asthma.
High temperatures may affect breathing
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Hot and humid air can make breathing more difficult while also increasing the amount of pollution and allergens in the air.
Smoke residue can linger indoors
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Chemicals from cigarette smoke can remain in carpets, furniture, cars, and clothing long after the cigarette has been extinguished.
Insect stings can trigger symptoms
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Bees, wasps, hornets, and fire ants may create problems for people with allergies and asthma.
Nitrogen dioxide can irritate the lungs
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The gas is found in appliances that burn gas, kerosene, or wood and may affect both the throat and airways.
Stress can affect the body physically
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People with asthma may experience more chest tightness and shortness of breath during periods of high stress or anxiety.
Many expecting parents focus on healthy food, sleep, and vitamins before welcoming a child into the world. But scientists are increasingly examining whether a mother’s work environment may also influence a baby’s development long before birth.
A major international study led by researchers from Johns Hopkins University has now uncovered a striking link between certain professions and a higher likelihood of autism in children. The findings were published in the journal Occupational and Environmental Medicine, reports Illustreret Videnskab.
Jobs under focus
The research team analyzed data from more than 110,000 Danish children born between 1973 and 2012. Among them, 1,702 had been diagnosed with autism.
According to the study, women working in jobs involving high stress levels or regular exposure to chemicals and pollution showed a noticeably increased risk of having children later diagnosed with autism.
The strongest association was found among women employed in military-related roles, while transport workers also showed elevated numbers compared with other professions.
Possible causes
Researchers believe several workplace exposures may help explain the findings. Military environments can involve contact with fuel fumes, industrial solvents, and heavy metals linked to ammunition.
Transport workers may face daily exposure to diesel emissions and air pollution from traffic.
The scientists stress that the study does not prove these jobs directly cause autism. However, they say the results add to growing evidence that stress and chemical exposure during pregnancy could affect fetal brain development.
More research ahead
The findings remained significant even after researchers adjusted for factors such as smoking, mental health history, age, and social background.
The World Health Organization estimates that around one in 127 people globally are on the autism spectrum, although experts believe many cases still go undiagnosed.
Researchers now hope future studies will identify which specific workplace factors may have the greatest impact during pregnancy.
The prices of meat and fish have risen in recent years. As a result, more people are choosing eggs as a cheaper alternative that is high in protein.
In the past, many believed that eggs caused high cholesterol. Today, nutrition experts generally agree that eggs can be part of a balanced diet.
What do eggs contain?
Nutritionist Arnaud Cocaul describes eggs to the media outlet L’édition du soir as a nutrient-rich food containing vitamins, proteins, and amino acids.
Nutrition expert Corinne Chicheportiche-Ayache explains to the same outlet that egg whites contain high-quality protein, while the yolk contains antioxidants and other nutrients.
The experts do not believe that the color of the eggshell or whether hens are free-range makes a major difference to the nutritional value.
However, Corinne Chicheportiche-Ayache points out that the hens’ feed can affect the nutritional content of the eggs. For example, hens fed flaxseed may produce eggs with higher levels of omega-3.
How many eggs should you eat?
According to Corinne Chicheportiche-Ayache, most people can eat five to six eggs per week without any issues.
People with diabetes or high cholesterol, however, should limit themselves to two to three eggs per week. She also stresses that eggs used in pies and other dishes count toward the total number consumed.
During a press conference at the White House, Donald Trump said that the United States is working on an experimental medicine with highly unusual results, Express reports.
According to the American president, the treatment has already been tested with positive outcomes.
Trump also explained that, in his view, the medicine has helped patients who were in critical condition.
However, he did not mention the name of the drug or present any clinical data or studies.
Experts doubt the story
The announcement has sparked debate among doctors and researchers. Several experts believe there is a lack of documentation supporting the claims made during the press conference.
According to critics, there is no known medicine capable of bringing dead people back to life.
Some therefore believe that Trump may have been referring to patients who were seriously ill, but not clinically dead.
The debate has also been linked to the US government’s healthcare policy.
At the same time, several healthcare professionals are criticizing plans to reduce support for existing treatment programs and preventive measures aimed at reducing opioid-related deaths.
Referred to previous legislation
During the press conference, Trump also linked the medicine in question to the so-called Right to Try Act.
The law was passed during his first presidential term and gives terminally ill patients access to experimental treatments.
Since then, the statements have sparked widespread debate on social media and among commentators, with several people comparing the story to the plot of a science fiction movie.
Compounds known as catechins and EGCG are believed to be among the main reasons. They have been linked to reduced inflammation and improved blood circulation.
May affect blood pressure and cholesterol
Researchers have also investigated how green tea affects cholesterol levels and blood pressure in a study published in Medicine.
Several analyses suggest that the tea may help lower harmful LDL cholesterol while also supporting healthy blood vessels.
A study published in Nutrition Journal also found modest improvements in overall lipid profiles among people who consumed green tea over a longer period.
Research published in Nutrition Research further indicates that green tea may have a positive effect on gut health, which could play a role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Several cups may make a difference
Green tea cannot replace a healthy diet or exercise, researchers emphasize.
However, the study published in Nutrition, Metabolism & Cardiovascular Diseases suggests that drinking two to four cups daily may be associated with a lower risk of heart disease.
The same study, which included nearly 800,000 participants, found that people who drank around three cups of green tea per day had up to a 15 percent lower risk of heart disease.
Many adults do not get enough calcium in their daily diet, even though the nutrient is important for bones, muscles, and nerves.
Fortunately, several drinks rich in calcium can serve as alternatives to regular milk, according to Parade.
Calcium should be spread throughout the day
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Experts recommend spreading calcium-rich foods and drinks across the day instead of consuming everything at once.
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium
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According to experts, it is important to combine calcium with vitamin D because the vitamin helps the body absorb the nutrient.
Kefir
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Kefir is a drinkable yogurt and may be easier to tolerate for people who have problems with regular dairy products.
Kefir contains more calcium than milk
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One cup of kefir provides around 316 milligrams of calcium, which is more than the amount found in one cup of milk.
Kefir may also support gut health
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Kefir contains probiotics that may support gut health.
Experts recommend choosing the plain version rather than sweetened varieties.
Fortified almond milk
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One cup of fortified almond milk can contain around 482 milligrams of calcium, depending on the brand.
Almond milk is often low in calories
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According to experts, almond milk typically has a low calorie content as long as it is not sweetened with added sugar.
Ready-made nutrition drinks
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Ready-made shakes and nutrition drinks are available with varying calcium levels.
Experts recommend products that provide at least 20 percent of the recommended daily calcium intake.
Nutrition drinks should be checked for sugar
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It is recommended to read the nutrition label carefully to make sure the drink does not contain too much added sugar.
Smoothies with tofu
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Tofu is highlighted as a major source of calcium.
One cup of tofu contains around 861 milligrams of calcium and can be used in smoothies.
Tofu makes smoothies creamier
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According to experts, tofu gives smoothies a creamy texture, but it should be combined with ingredients such as berries to improve the flavor.
Fortified soy milk
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Soy milk with added calcium can contain around 202 milligrams of calcium per cup.
According to experts, it is nutritionally the closest alternative to cow’s milk because it also contains protein and vitamin D.
Calcium can settle at the bottom of the carton
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Experts recommend shaking soy milk cartons well before use, as calcium can settle at the bottom of the drink.
Fortified orange juice
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Many types of orange juice are fortified with both calcium and vitamin D. One cup can provide up to 300 milligrams of calcium.
Orange juice should be combined with food
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Experts recommend drinking orange juice together with protein and healthy fats such as eggs, Greek yogurt, or avocado to avoid sharp fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
A new medical check-up involving Donald Trump is once again fueling debate in the United States over the health and stamina of the country’s president.
At 79, Trump remains under intense public scrutiny as voters continue questioning whether age could affect performance inside the White House.
Fresh evaluation
According to reports from ABC News and statements shared on Truth Social, Trump recently underwent another routine health examination at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, reports Unilad.
After the appointment, the president claimed everything had gone smoothly and suggested the results showed no concerns.
The White House released very few details from the examination itself, but the visit marks yet another medical review since Trump returned to office.
Public concern grows
Questions surrounding Trump’s condition have intensified in recent months after several public appearances sparked discussion online and across American media.
Critics pointed to moments where the president appeared tired during events, while photos showing bruising on his hands also attracted attention.
Last year, doctors confirmed Trump had chronic venous insufficiency following examinations related to swelling in his legs.
Polls reveal doubt
Recent polling from Ipsos found that fewer than half of Americans believe Trump has the physical health and mental sharpness needed to effectively serve as president.
Former White House physician Jeffrey Kuhlman has also reportedly described age as the biggest concern surrounding Trump’s overall condition.
Despite the growing debate, White House officials continue insisting that the president remains in strong health and fully capable of handling the job.
Dry eye disease is a common condition that particularly affects older adults and women, according to News-Medical.
The condition can cause red eyes, irritation, and blurred vision. In some cases, it may also damage the surface of the eye and make activities such as reading or driving difficult.
According to Baylor College of Medicine, the problem is often caused by the eyes producing too few tears or by tears evaporating too quickly in dry or windy conditions.
Challenges in current treatments
Many patients are currently treated with steroid-based eye drops that reduce inflammation in the eye.
However, long-term use can lead to side effects such as glaucoma and cataracts.
Researchers from Baylor College of Medicine and Okayama University have therefore investigated a new type of treatment.
They focused on specific immune cells in the eye that normally protect tissue and help maintain eye health.
In dry eye disease, these cells function less effectively, which can lead to increased irritation and damage to the eye’s surface.
The results showed that the treatment reduced inflammation and protected the surface of the eye.
Researchers also found that the treatment caused a smaller increase in eye pressure than some of the steroid treatments currently in use. This could make the therapy safer for long-term use.
However, the researchers emphasized that human trials are still needed before the treatment can be widely used.
Sources: News-Medical and Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science.
Researchers from the University of Oxford analyzed 14 research reviews published between 2014 and 2023.
The aim was to determine which smoking cessation methods are the most effective, according to SciTechDaily.
At the same time, the review, published in the journal Addiction, shows that significant gaps in research still remain.
For example, only a limited number of studies compare e-cigarettes with other smoking cessation aids such as cytisine and varenicline.
The researchers also point out that most existing studies have been conducted in high-income countries. As a result, they are calling for more research from low- and middle-income countries.
Risks still being investigated
The researchers emphasize that uncertainty remains regarding serious side effects linked to e-cigarettes.
Future studies should therefore follow users over longer periods.
According to the researchers, future research should examine both the effectiveness of e-cigarettes and their potential health risks.
Better results
Overall, the review found that nicotine e-cigarettes appear to help more smokers quit than traditional nicotine replacement products such as patches, gum, and lozenges.
The researchers conclude that the strongest studies show a clear trend.
People who used nicotine e-cigarettes were more likely to successfully quit smoking.
Many people reach for chips or cookies when they want a quick snack, often without considering the impact these foods can have on overall health.
According to cardiologists speaking to Parade, pistachios offer a healthier alternative that may support both blood pressure levels and long-term heart health.
Ultra-processed snacks may raise the risk of high blood pressure
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Research published in Advances in Nutrition has linked ultra-processed foods to a higher risk of heart disease, obesity, and elevated blood pressure.
A separate study published in Public Health Nutrition found that the risk of hypertension increases with greater consumption of ultra-processed products.
Popular snacks are often high in sodium
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Cardiologist Dr. Kainat Khalid told Parade that many common snack foods contain excessive amounts of sodium, added sugar, and saturated fat. Products such as chips and crackers are among the biggest concerns.
Many processed foods are designed to encourage overeating
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Dr. Khalid explained that highly processed snacks are often engineered to be especially appealing, making it easy for people to consume several servings without noticing.
Pistachios provide a healthier option
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Dr. Kainat Khalid and Dr. Allen J. Taylor highlighted pistachios as a nutritious alternative for people looking for the same crunchy texture as chips, but with added health benefits.
Rich in healthy fats
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Pistachios contain unsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids, nutrients that may help blood vessels relax and widen. Improved circulation can reduce pressure on the cardiovascular system.
May improve blood vessel function
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Research published in the Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that pistachios may improve the flexibility and responsiveness of blood vessels, helping the heart work more efficiently.
Contain important minerals
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According to Dr. Khalid, pistachios are also a source of magnesium and potassium, two minerals that play an important role in regulating blood pressure and maintaining electrolyte balance.
Studies show positive effects on blood pressure
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A 2022 review published in Nutrition Reviews, which analyzed 17 studies involving 940 adults, concluded that pistachios may have beneficial effects on blood pressure levels.
Unsalted pistachios are recommended
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The cardiologists emphasized that unsalted pistachios are the best choice for people who want to maximize the potential heart-health benefits.
Too much salt can reduce the benefits
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While salted pistachios still contain valuable nutrients, the additional sodium may counteract some of the positive effects on blood pressure, particularly in people who are sensitive to salt.
May also support healthy cholesterol levels
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Dr. Khalid noted that the unsaturated fats found in pistachios may help reduce LDL cholesterol while preserving HDL cholesterol levels.
Moderation is still important
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Dr. Khalid recommends eating a small handful of pistachios each day.
She also warned that even healthy snacks should be consumed in moderation to avoid excessive calorie intake.
Heart-friendly eating can be simple
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Experts say pistachios are an example of a simple and satisfying snack that may support heart health over time while still tasting good.
Sources: Parade, Advances in Nutrition, Public Health Nutrition, Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition, and Nutrition Reviews.
