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New Study Reveals the Perfect Time of Day to Exercise

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12. June, 2025

New Study Reveals the Perfect Time of Day to Exercise

New research reveals that workouts at a specific time may offer unique cardiovascular benefits – especially for older adults.

A consistent daily exercise schedule also seems to boost overall fitness.

Morning workouts support heart and lung health

The new study found that people who exercised most in the morning had better cardiovascular fitness and lung function.

Older adults especially showed improved walking efficiency and endurance.

A consistent exercise schedule pays off

Participants who worked out around the same time each day saw better health outcomes overall. The data suggests that regularity itself plays a big role in fitness.

Your body clock matters more than you think

Our internal circadian rhythm influences everything from body temperature to hormone release.

That means the time of day you move could actually impact how your body responds to exercise.

Morning activity improves walking efficiency

Those with peak activity in the morning didn’t just walk more – they walked more efficiently.

Their bodies used energy better during movement, which suggests stronger metabolic function.

The study focused on older adults

Researchers examined health data from 799 individuals with an average age of 76.

The results are especially relevant for older people who want to maintain good physical condition.

Fitness trackers told the story

Participants wore wrist devices that monitored activity levels around the clock for seven days.

Their heart and lung function was then tested with cardiopulmonary exercise evaluations.

Exercise can work like medicine

Experts say morning workouts may act as a natural boost for body systems – enhancing muscle performance, metabolism, and even cellular health through improved circadian rhythm alignment.

Morning workouts linked to lower heart disease risk

A separate 2023 study found that people who were most active between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. had the lowest risk of heart disease and stroke – especially women.

But afternoon and evening workouts have their perks too

Later workouts aren’t bad either. They’ve been linked to lower insulin resistance and even reduced all-cause mortality.

For some, performance might be higher later in the day.

The best time to work out is…

While morning workouts show great promise, experts agree that the most important thing is consistency.

Regular exercise – regardless of time – offers massive benefits to overall health.

Short workouts still count

Even just 20 minutes of exercise per week can lead to notable improvements in heart and lung health. It doesn’t have to be long to make a difference.

This article is based on information from Health.com.

A Single Drop of Blood Could Reveal How Long You’ll Live

Mie Hermansen

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12. June, 2025

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A Single Drop of Blood Could Reveal How Long You’ll Live

What if a simple drop of blood could reveal how well you’re really aging—and even estimate how long you might live? Scientists are now closer than ever to making that possibility a reality.

A New Way to Measure Aging

Researchers have developed a test that uses DNA methylation patterns in blood or saliva to assess how the body is aging on a cellular level—beyond just your birth date.

The Power of Intrinsic Capacity

Intrinsic capacity (IC) reflects your mental and physical abilities—how well you move, think, see, and even feel. Maintaining IC is essential for aging well.

Simpler Than Ever Before

Traditionally, measuring IC involved expensive equipment and clinical evaluations. Now, a single blood or saliva sample may be all it takes to assess it accurately.

Predicting Mortality With Precision

The new test has shown strong predictive power for all-cause mortality, meaning it could help flag age-related health decline earlier than ever before.

What Is DNA Methylation?

This test examines chemical changes—called methylation—on DNA that affect gene activity. These patterns shift with age and lifestyle, giving clues about your biological age.

More Than Just a Number

Chronological age is what the calendar says. But biological age, based on IC, tells how well your body is holding up. This test aims to reveal that hidden truth.

Five Key Aspects of Aging

The IC score is based on five core domains: cognition, physical movement, senses, mental well-being, and energy levels. It paints a detailed picture of your functional health.

Personalized Health Interventions

Doctors may soon use this test to tailor interventions—like nutrition, exercise, or stress management—based on how your body is aging, not just your age.

A Tool for Everyone

Because the test uses blood or saliva, it’s non-invasive and accessible—potentially opening doors to population-wide health tracking as we age.

Experts Are Optimistic—But Cautious

Scientists agree the test shows promise, but say it should complement, not replace, other biological markers like GrimAge or PhenoAge until further validation is done.

This article is based on information from Medical News Today

She Used Weight-Loss Meds – 6 Weeks Later, She Had a Positive Test

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

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12. June, 2025

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She Used Weight-Loss Meds – 6 Weeks Later, She Had a Positive Test

Weight-loss injections like Mounjaro and Wegovy have exploded in popularity.

They promise quick results, suppress appetite, and are used both through healthcare systems and private providers.

But now, the UK’s medicines regulator has issued a warning that could change how women approach these treatments.

The effect no one expected

These so-called “skinny jabs” can cause common side effects like vomiting and diarrhea. They also slow down digestion.

Both factors may interfere with the body’s ability to absorb certain medications effectively.

That includes hormonal contraception. This means that women may not be as protected as they think while using these treatments.

The regulator now advises that women using Mounjaro, for example, should use condoms for the first four weeks – or switch to a more reliable method like an implant or IUD.

In addition, weight-loss drugs should not be used while trying to conceive, during pregnancy, or while breastfeeding.

Despite the guidance being included in patient leaflets, the warning is not reaching everyone.

“I just didn’t expect this”

26-year-old Natasha Major started taking Mounjaro to lose weight, years before she planned for another child.

She was already on birth control and had polycystic ovary syndrome – making pregnancy unlikely.

Six weeks later, she was pregnant.

She immediately stopped using the injections and contacted her GP. Fortunately, a scan showed a healthy pregnancy – but the experience left her shaken.

Now, healthcare experts are urging conversations between women and prescribers about the risks of these medications.

They stress that these drugs must be taken under proper supervision – and with full knowledge of how they might affect the body.

This article is based on information from BBC.com.

This One Sound Tells Doctors That Death Is Imminent

Mie Hermansen

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12. June, 2025

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When life reaches its final hours, the body begins to shut down in ways many don’t expect. One of the most striking signals is a sound that often emerges shortly before death—haunting, misunderstood, and deeply human.

A Wet, Gurgling Sound From the Throat

In the final hours, a distinct rattling noise may be heard as the person breathes. This sound happens when the body can no longer clear saliva and mucus from the throat.

Commonly Known as the “Death Rattle”

This sound, referred to as the “death rattle,” may seem alarming but is not painful. It’s a result of the body losing control over its basic reflexes—not a sign of distress.

Air Struggles Through Secretions

As air passes through pooled fluids in the throat, it creates a bubbling or rattling noise. It can sound like choking, but it is typically not causing discomfort.

Often Occurs Within the Last 23 Hours

According to Belgian doctor Paulien Moyaert, this sound tends to appear less than a day before death. She notes that most patients live no more than 23 hours after the noise begins.

More Disturbing for Families Than the Patient

The person nearing death is usually unaware of the sound. It is often the family who finds it upsetting, which is why caregivers may intervene to reduce it.

Medication Can Help Ease the Noise

Doctors sometimes administer medicine to dry out the airways and reduce the build-up of fluids. The goal is to soften the sound, offering comfort to those witnessing the moment.

Linked to Loss of Consciousness

“Hospital bed, made and unused. Flowers on a stand next to tge bed, medical equipment on the wall put away.” by sreejagroups/ CC0 1.0

As consciousness fades, swallowing reflexes stop functioning. The body’s systems begin shutting down, and the rattling becomes one of the final physiological changes.

Positioning the Body Makes a Difference

“Doctors Hospital” by Oles kanebckuu/ CC0 1.0

Placing the patient on their side with the head slightly elevated can allow fluids to drain more easily and reduce the intensity of the noise.

A Natural Part of the Dying Process

Though unsettling to hear, the death rattle is a common and natural part of dying. It signals the body is letting go—not suffering.

A Final Signal the End Is Near

To palliative care experts, the death rattle often marks the beginning of the very last stage. It’s one of the clearest signs that time is short.

This article is based on information from 20minutos

Might a Four-Day Workweek Soon Be the Norm? That’s What This New Study Investigates

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

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12. June, 2025

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Might a Four-Day Workweek Soon Be the Norm? That’s What This New Study Investigates

Across Europe, companies are testing new ways of working. From remote work and flextime to the eye-catching 4-day workweek.

But according to fresh research, these models only succeed under one crucial condition.

The InnovaWorking project, led by Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, studied how work-time innovations play out in countries like Spain, Finland, and Ireland.

Their findings show clear benefits: more productivity, better work-life balance, and stronger employee retention.

But here’s the catch – it only works if the company is truly on board.

Commitment makes the difference

You might think national laws or union power drive the results.

And while strong collective agreements in places like France and Spain help, they aren’t the deciding factor.

Instead, researchers found that company commitment is the key. A 4-day workweek is only effective when businesses genuinely embrace it – not just to look modern, but to improve how the organization runs.

When managers listen to employee needs and adjust operations strategically, the benefits become real. Otherwise, it’s just window dressing.

In countries with less tradition of social dialogue – like Hungary or Ireland – success often depends on individual companies.

Without strong union voices or flexible legal frameworks, the shift to shorter workweeks becomes harder to implement system-wide.

Ageing workforce, modern solutions

Europe’s ageing workforce is also shaping how companies approach work time. Some are now offering reduced hours to retain experienced older staff.

At the same time, younger talent is drawn to companies offering 4-day weeks and flexible setups.

These trends suggest a shift is coming. Companies willing to lead now could gain a competitive edge – both in talent and performance.

This article is based on information from Alphagalileo.org.

Yoga Teacher: This Simple Pose Beats 100 Crunches

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

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12. June, 2025

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Yoga Teacher: This Simple Pose Beats 100 Crunches

When most people think of abdominal workouts, they picture intense movement. Sit-ups, leg raises, planks.

But the truth is, your deepest core muscles often get left behind. Traditional exercises don’t always reach the layers that support balance, posture, and real strength.

And that’s where yoga enters the picture — more powerful than it looks.

The pose that looks too easy to work

There’s one yoga pose in particular that has experts talking: the boat pose.

It looks simple at first. You sit on the floor, lift your legs to form a “V” shape, and hold your arms out straight. That’s it. No motion, no sweat dripping off your face.

But don’t be fooled.

Holding this position turns your entire midsection into a furnace. It’s an isometric hold, meaning your muscles are firing non-stop just to keep you from toppling over.

Both your straight and oblique ab muscles are engaged — hard.

In fact, yoga teacher Sharath Jois has said that 25 deep breaths in this pose can equal 100 crunches in core activation.

The surprising mental benefits

Boat pose isn’t just a physical challenge. It strengthens your hips, spine, glutes, and even your pelvic floor.

But it also does something most workouts don’t: it calms you down.

Why? Because this pose demands focus and breath control. That kind of mental stillness actually helps reduce cortisol — your body’s primary stress hormone.

A 2023 study from S. Nijalingappa Medical College in India found that six weeks of regular yoga and meditation significantly lowered cortisol levels.

This kind of mind-body balance is a rare bonus in modern fitness.

So while others are pounding out crunch after crunch, you could be sitting still — breathing, balancing, and building a stronger body from the inside out.

This article is based on information from Nyheder 24.

This Everyday Painkiller Could Secretly Be Harming Your Body

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

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12. June, 2025

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This Everyday Painkiller Could Secretly Be Harming Your Body

Ibuprofen is a go-to remedy for pain and fever, found in medicine cabinets worldwide.

But behind its soothing effects are hidden dangers you probably never heard of. Here are some facts about the popular painkiller that might surprise you.

Ibuprofen can triple your risk of stroke

One of the most shocking revelations is that daily use of ibuprofen may triple the risk of having a stroke.

Some studies report an increased risk between 10 and 50 percent — and that’s within just a few weeks of use.

Heart, liver and kidneys silently take a hit

Ibuprofen affects key organs in your body — especially the heart, liver and kidneys.

And you don’t need to use it long term to feel the effects: even short-term use at moderate doses can lead to serious damage.

It interacts with over 400 other drugs

Ibuprofen may interfere with the effectiveness of more than 400 other medications.

This is a critical risk, especially for those managing chronic conditions or taking prescription drugs regularly.

Leftover pills can kill pets

A single dropped tablet can be fatal for cats or dogs. Ibuprofen is toxic to animals and can lead to severe organ damage or death, even in very small amounts.

It harms the environment

Ibuprofen doesn’t disappear when flushed away.

It ends up in rivers and lakes where it can damage aquatic life and disrupt plant ecosystems — an environmental issue few are aware of.

Men and women react differently

New research reveals that men and women metabolize ibuprofen differently.

For example, the enzymes that process medicine behave in opposite ways depending on gender, which may cause drugs to stay longer in the male body.

It causes oxidative stress in the liver

Studies in mice found that ibuprofen increases the production of hydrogen peroxide in liver cells — a toxic compound that puts cells under stress and increases the risk of liver injury.

It disrupts your metabolism

In male mice, ibuprofen altered 34 different metabolic processes — including those responsible for breaking down vitamins, hormones and amino acids.

These changes raise concerns about how the drug impacts human biochemistry.

Protein recycling is affected by gender

The proteasome, which breaks down damaged proteins in cells, reacted differently in male and female mice.

This suggests that the body’s cellular cleanup system may not work the same across sexes — with unknown consequences.

It should only be used short term

While ibuprofen is effective for pain, inflammation and fever, experts strongly recommend using it for the shortest time possible and in the lowest effective dose.

It’s far from harmless, especially with repeated or unnecessary use.

This article is based on information from Scientias.nl.

These Fruits Can Naturally Help Lower Cholesterol and Strengthen the Heart

Mie Hermansen

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12. June, 2025

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These Fruits Can Naturally Help Lower Cholesterol and Strengthen the Heart

Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels doesn’t always require medications or complicated diets. By making simple adjustments to your daily fruit intake, you can support your heart in a delicious and natural way. Here are 10 fruits that experts recommend for reducing bad cholesterol.

Oranges

Rich in vitamin C and fiber, oranges support heart health and help lower LDL cholesterol levels. Starting your day with a glass of fresh orange juice is an easy way to introduce this benefit.

Watermelon

This hydrating fruit contains lycopene, an antioxidant that helps reduce oxidative stress and supports the reduction of cholesterol in the blood.

Apples

Packed with pectin, a type of soluble fiber, apples help bind and flush cholesterol out of the body. Eating an apple a day is more than just an old saying—it works.

Pomegranate

Loaded with polyphenols, pomegranates help reduce cholesterol oxidation and support the health of blood vessels. Enjoy the seeds as a snack or in salads.

Berries

Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are high in antioxidants that prevent LDL cholesterol from oxidizing and damaging arteries.

Grapefruit

This citrus fruit contains compounds that may block cholesterol absorption in the intestine. Be mindful if you’re on medication, as grapefruit can interact with certain drugs.

Kiwi

Small but powerful, kiwis are rich in vitamin C and fiber, both of which support heart function and cholesterol control.

Avocado

Though technically a fruit, avocado is full of healthy fats and beta-sitosterol, which helps reduce cholesterol absorption in the body.

Bananas

Bananas are not only rich in potassium but also support cardiovascular health by helping to maintain proper blood pressure and reducing cholesterol levels.

Plums

“Mirabelle plum fruit growing tree“/ CC0 1.0

Recent research suggests that eating plums daily may increase HDL (good cholesterol) while lowering inflammation and improving antioxidant activity.

Article based on information from Kompas

This New Home Test Can Detect Prostate Cancer in 15 Minutes

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

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12. June, 2025

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A groundbreaking new invention allows men to test themselves for prostate cancer at home. Here’s everything you need to know about how the test works.

A simple test using urine

The test only requires a few drops of urine, collected after a prostate massage. This helps concentrate biomarkers that are often associated with prostate tumors.

Results shown with colors

After 15 minutes, the device displays the result using a colored light system: green indicates low risk, amber means moderate risk, and red signals a high risk of cancer.

Developed in Spain

This revolutionary test was developed by researchers and students at the University of Málaga, who collaborated on the project called “Testeavida”.

83 % accuracy

Preliminary trials show the test correctly identifies 83 out of 100 positive cases. This level of precision is considered highly promising for early cancer screening.

Not a replacement for doctors

Although the test is highly accurate, it is not meant to replace professional medical evaluation.

A positive result should always be confirmed with a doctor and potentially followed up with a PSA test or biopsy.

Available in pharmacies soon

The home test is expected to be available in Spanish pharmacies by the last quarter of 2025.

It targets men over 45 years old, particularly those who haven’t begun regular check-ups.

Early detection saves lives

Prostate cancer often shows no symptoms in early stages. A quick and easy home test like this can help identify the disease before it spreads.

Created by biotech students

The idea for the device came from students in the Advanced Biotechnology Master’s program.

Their proposal was backed and refined by academic mentors at the university.

Medical follow-up is crucial

If the test result shows an amber or red light, it’s strongly advised to see a medical professional. The test is designed as a screening tool, not a definitive diagnosis.

A new era for men’s health

By removing barriers like fear or stigma that prevent men from seeking medical help, this home test could become a vital tool in reducing prostate cancer mortality.

This article is based on information from El Tiempo.

Fatal Virus Kills in Days – Here’s What to Watch for

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

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12. June, 2025

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Fatal Virus Kills in Days – Here’s What to Watch for

Borna virus infections in humans are extremely rare, but when they occur, they’re often fatal.

With no known treatment and vague early symptoms, the virus poses a silent danger. Here’s what you should know about the virus that has now claimed another life.

The Borna virus comes from a tiny rodent

The field shrew (Crocidura leucodon) is only six to eight centimeters long, but it can carry the deadly Borna virus.

The virus is excreted through the animal’s saliva, urine, and feces, making it a serious risk for other mammals, including humans.

Human-to-human transmission not confirmed

So far, there have been no verified cases of the virus being transmitted directly between people.

This makes the exact route of human infection unclear but slightly less concerning in terms of broader spread.

Cats can be indirect carriers

While cats don’t get sick from the virus, they may bring infected shrews into homes. This hunting behavior can unknowingly expose humans to the virus.

Pet owners in endemic areas are urged to be extra cautious, although owning cats isn’t officially considered a risk factor.

Don’t touch shrews – dead or alive

Health authorities recommend never handling shrews without gloves, particularly in affected regions. Even contact with a dead animal could pose a risk of infection.

Incubation period remains unclear

Experts don’t yet know how long it takes from infection to the onset of symptoms.

Estimates suggest anywhere from several weeks to a few months, which makes it difficult to detect and prevent transmission.

Difficult to diagnose early

BoDV-1 is almost never diagnosed in its early stages.

Only once serious neurological symptoms appear can doctors run a PCR test on brain tissue or cerebrospinal fluid to confirm the presence of the virus.

Early symptoms mimic common illnesses

Patients typically report headaches, fever, and a general feeling of sickness at first – symptoms easily mistaken for the flu or a cold.

This delay in proper diagnosis can be fatal.

Rapid progression to severe brain symptoms

Once the virus reaches the brain, it can cause encephalitis.

This leads to severe neurological issues such as speech problems, behavioral changes, and difficulty walking.

In most cases, it quickly progresses to coma and death.

No known cure or treatment

There is currently no specific treatment for BoDV-1.

Therapies focus on symptom relief, but the fatality rate remains close to 100 percent, making prevention and awareness crucial.

Research is still in early stages

Scientists are still learning about BoDV-1. Major questions remain unanswered – especially how the virus enters the human body and affects the brain.

Ongoing studies aim to uncover the mechanisms behind this deadly disease and how it might be prevented.

This article is based on information from Frankfurter Rundschau.

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Morning workouts support heart and lung health

A consistent exercise schedule pays off

Your body clock matters more than you think

Morning activity improves walking efficiency

The study focused on older adults

Fitness trackers told the story

Exercise can work like medicine

Morning workouts linked to lower heart disease risk

But afternoon and evening workouts have their perks too

The best time to work out is…

Short workouts still count

A New Way to Measure Aging

The Power of Intrinsic Capacity

Simpler Than Ever Before

Predicting Mortality With Precision

What Is DNA Methylation?

More Than Just a Number

Five Key Aspects of Aging

Personalized Health Interventions

A Tool for Everyone

Experts Are Optimistic—But Cautious

The effect no one expected

“I just didn’t expect this”

A Wet, Gurgling Sound From the Throat

Commonly Known as the “Death Rattle”

Air Struggles Through Secretions

Often Occurs Within the Last 23 Hours

More Disturbing for Families Than the Patient

Medication Can Help Ease the Noise

Linked to Loss of Consciousness

Positioning the Body Makes a Difference

A Natural Part of the Dying Process

A Final Signal the End Is Near

Commitment makes the difference

Ageing workforce, modern solutions

The pose that looks too easy to work

The surprising mental benefits

Ibuprofen can triple your risk of stroke

Heart, liver and kidneys silently take a hit

It interacts with over 400 other drugs

Leftover pills can kill pets

It harms the environment

Men and women react differently

It causes oxidative stress in the liver

It disrupts your metabolism

Protein recycling is affected by gender

It should only be used short term

Oranges

Watermelon

Apples

Pomegranate

Berries

Grapefruit

Kiwi

Avocado

Bananas

Plums

A simple test using urine

Results shown with colors

Developed in Spain

83 % accuracy

Not a replacement for doctors

Available in pharmacies soon

Early detection saves lives

Created by biotech students

Medical follow-up is crucial

A new era for men’s health

The Borna virus comes from a tiny rodent

Human-to-human transmission not confirmed

Cats can be indirect carriers

Don’t touch shrews – dead or alive

Incubation period remains unclear

Difficult to diagnose early

Early symptoms mimic common illnesses

Rapid progression to severe brain symptoms

No known cure or treatment

Research is still in early stages