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Women should train harder after breast cancer surgery, new study suggests

4. May, 2026

Women who have undergone breast cancer surgery are often advised to take it easy with physical activity.

Strength training and heavy lifting, in particular, are typically postponed.

According to HealthDay, this caution stems from concerns about complications, especially among patients who have had lymph nodes removed or undergone major surgery.

As a result, recommendations have long been characterized by caution.

Exercise after surgery

A new study presented in Seattle at a meeting of the American Society of Breast Surgeons examined what happens when patients train more intensively.

Nearly 200 women participated in a three-month strength training program.

The participants had undergone different types of surgery. During the program, they trained with progressively increasing loads.

According to HealthDay, the results showed that the women improved their strength, mobility, and balance. At the same time, they were able to return to their daily routines more quickly.

New perspectives

The training was more demanding than current recommendations.

Within just a few weeks, several participants were lifting heavy weights, and some reached even higher levels later in the program.

The results were consistent regardless of the type of surgery the participants had undergone. This suggests that more patients may benefit from more intensive training.

The study has not yet been peer-reviewed. Nevertheless, it indicates that current guidelines may be overly cautious and that strength training should play a more prominent role in rehabilitation after breast cancer surgery.

Sources: HealthDay and the American Society of Breast Surgeons.

How many eggs can you safely eat each day? Experts weigh in

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

4. May, 2026

How many eggs can you safely eat each day? Experts weigh in

Eggs were previously considered harmful mainly due to their cholesterol content.

According to VivaBem, newer studies indicate that cholesterol from egg yolks has only a limited effect on increasing LDL cholesterol.

Instead, saturated fat appears to play a more significant role in raising this risk factor.

This shift in scientific understanding has influenced how eggs are evaluated. They are no longer viewed in isolation, but rather as part of an overall dietary pattern.

Daily intake recommendations

For healthy individuals, a commonly cited guideline is to consume up to one egg per day.

This recommendation serves as a general reference point rather than a strict limit. However, individual needs may vary.

People with specific health conditions, particularly those related to metabolism or cardiovascular risk, may require different dietary considerations.

Role in weight management

Eggs are often included in diets aimed at improving eating habits.

Their protein content can promote a feeling of fullness, which may contribute to reduced calorie intake.

Despite this, the effect of eggs on weight loss depends on the overall diet. No single food determines outcomes on its own, and dietary balance remains essential.

The main conclusion is that eggs can be part of a healthy diet and may support weight management, but the ideal intake depends on individual health profiles and overall eating habits.

Sources: VivaBem.

How to eat pork safely if you have high blood pressure

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

4. May, 2026

How to eat pork safely if you have high blood pressure

Many people with high blood pressure wonder if pork can still be part of their diet.

The answer is yes, as long as you choose carefully and pay attention to salt, fat, and portion sizes, according to Everyday Health.

Choose pork carefully

People with high blood pressure can still eat pork if they select the right cuts and control how much they eat.

Avoid too much salt

Salt can cause the body to retain water, which increases pressure on the heart and blood vessels and raises blood pressure.

How the body reacts to salt

When you eat salty foods, your body holds onto water to balance salt levels, which can lead to higher blood pressure.

Recommended sodium intake

Most people should limit sodium to no more than 2,300 mg per day, with an ideal target of 1,500 mg, according to The American Heart Association.

The impact of fat on blood pressure

Fatty foods are high in calories, which can lead to weight gain and increase the risk of high blood pressure.

Pork is leaner today

Modern farming has made pork leaner than it was in the past, making it a better option than before.

Nutrients in lean pork

Lean pork provides important nutrients such as iron, vitamins, and minerals.

Processed pork

Foods like ham, bacon, and sausage are often high in sodium and can raise blood pressure, especially in those sensitive to salt.

Pick lean cuts

A serving of pork tenderloin contains much less sodium compared to processed options like ham and bacon.

Trim visible fat

Removing visible fat before cooking helps reduce the calorie content.

Skip adding salt

Instead of salt, use fresh herbs and spices to enhance flavor.

Use healthier cooking methods

Grilling, broiling, and roasting are considered more heart-healthy ways to prepare pork.

Be mindful of marinades

Marinades and sauces can add extra sodium, sugar, and fat, so it is better to choose fat-free dressings or vinegar-based options.

Watch your portion sizes

A proper serving of lean pork is about 3 ounces, roughly the size of a deck of cards.

Limit processed pork

Processed pork products should be eaten only occasionally and in small amounts.

Sources: Everyday Health and The American Heart Association.

Large study examines safety of anxiety and sleep medications during pregnancy

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

4. May, 2026

Large study examines safety of anxiety and sleep medications during pregnancy

Pregnant women often experience sleep problems and anxiety, and in some cases, these are treated with medications such as benzodiazepines and Z-hypnotics.

These drugs are used to reduce restlessness and improve sleep, but their safety during pregnancy has been debated for many years, according to HealthDay.

Healthcare assessments therefore rely on balancing the need for treatment against the possible consequences for the child.

Widespread use and concern

The use of sedative medication among pregnant women is linked to the prevalence of psychological strain during this period.

At the same time, uncertainty about side effects has created concern among both patients and doctors.

Previous studies have suggested a possible link between these medications and developmental disorders in children, but the findings have been inconclusive.

New research provides insight

A large study published in The BMJ analyzed nearly 4 million children born in South Korea between 2010 and 2022.

The children were followed until 2023, with a focus on the development of conditions such as ADHD, autism, and behavioral disorders.

Initial analyses showed a slight increase in psychiatric diagnoses among children exposed to the medications during pregnancy.

Adjusted results

When researchers compared siblings to account for shared genetics and environment, the difference disappeared.

However, minor variations were observed depending on whether the medication was used early or late in pregnancy, as well as with prolonged treatment, which requires further research.

There is no clear evidence that this type of medication increases the risk of mental disorders in children.

At the same time, it is emphasized that untreated anxiety and insomnia can also have consequences, making careful consideration necessary.

Sources: HealthDay and The BMJ.

Scientists find method to lose weight while protecting bones

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

4. May, 2026

Scientists find method to lose weight while protecting bones

Previous studies have shown that a diet low in sulfur-containing amino acids can cause animals to lose fat rapidly. At the same time, this type of diet has been linked to a longer lifespan, writes SciTechDaily.

However, there is a downside. According to research published in Aging, this diet weakens bones.

It reduces bone density and lowers the number of cells that build bone tissue.

At the same time, the amount of fat in the bone marrow increases, which may affect bone strength.

Testing new methods

The study, led by Naidu B. Ommi from the Orentreich Foundation, investigated whether it is possible to avoid these problems.

The researchers worked with overweight mice and tested different ways of influencing the body’s metabolism.

The focus was particularly on the substance glutathione, which is important for cellular function.

Among other approaches, the researchers used a compound called BSO, which lowers glutathione levels without changing the diet.

By comparing different groups, they were able to observe how both weight and bones were affected by the various treatments.

A key difference

The results showed a clear difference. Mice on the restrictive diet lost weight but also developed weaker bones.

In contrast, mice treated with BSO lost weight without sustaining bone damage.

According to the study, it may be possible to achieve fat loss without negatively affecting bones.

However, the researchers emphasize that more studies are needed before the method can be widely used.

Sources: SciTechDaily and Aging.

Are you taking the right type of vitamin D? Researchers offer new insights

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

4. May, 2026

Are you taking the right type of vitamin D? Researchers offer new insights

Many people take vitamin D to strengthen bones and support the immune system, especially during the winter.

Many take supplements daily because sunlight is insufficient during the darker months. According to SciTechDaily, this is a regular habit for many adults.

There are two types: D2 and D3. D3 is produced in the skin through exposure to sunlight and is found in animal-based foods such as fish and eggs.

D2 comes from plants, particularly fungi, and is often used in plant-based products.

Differences in vitamin D

A new study, including research from the University of Surrey and published in Nutrition Reviews, has reviewed several human trials.

The results show that D2 and D3 do not function in the same way in the body.

Previous research from Frontiers in Immunology also indicates that D3 plays an important role in the immune system. It helps the body respond quickly to viruses and bacteria.

Possible consequences

Low levels of vitamin D may increase the risk of illness and weaken the body’s defenses. Therefore, the type consumed is important.

In some cases, D2 may lower the level of D3 in the body. This means that D2 does not always provide the same effect and, in certain situations, may counteract the body’s needs.

Sources: SciTechDaily, Nutrition Reviews, and Frontiers in Immunology.

How lemons can affect your body if you eat them every day

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

4. May, 2026

How lemons can affect your body if you eat them every day

Lemons are packed with vitamins and antioxidants that can affect the body in several ways.

Regular consumption can both support health and have certain drawbacks, according to Health.

Contains few calories

A peeled lemon contains only about 17 calories, making it a low-calorie choice.

Important nutrients

Lemons contain, among other things, potassium, vitamin B6, and thiamine, which the body needs in small amounts.

Improves iron absorption

Vitamin C makes it easier for the body to absorb iron from plant-based foods, which is important for preventing iron deficiency.

Lemon peel contains extra antioxidants

The peel may contain more antioxidants than both the juice and pulp, and can therefore provide an additional health benefit, according to a study published in Food Research International.

May reduce the risk of anemia

When the body absorbs more iron, the risk of iron deficiency anemia decreases, which can otherwise affect oxygen transport in the body.

May reduce the risk of kidney stones

Lemons contain citric acid, which can increase the level of citrate in the urine.

This can bind to calcium oxalate and prevent kidney stones from forming, according to a study published in the Korean Journal of Urology.

Heart health

The content of vitamin C and antioxidants helps protect cells from free radicals and may reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, according to a study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences.

Blood pressure and cholesterol

Phenolic antioxidants in lemons may support blood vessel function, lower LDL cholesterol, and have a positive effect on blood pressure.

Protects against cell damage

Antioxidants in lemons may help protect against cell damage, which is associated with diseases such as cancer and lung disease.

May worsen stomach problems

The acidity of lemons may worsen symptoms of reflux and GERD in some individuals.

May cause allergic reactions

Some people may react to citrus fruits with symptoms ranging from mild itching to severe reactions, according to a study published in PLOS One.

May cause skin reactions upon contact

Contact with lemon oil on the skin may lead to photosensitive reactions when the skin is exposed to sunlight, according to a study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences.

May damage tooth enamel

The acid in lemons can break down tooth enamel, according to another study also published in PLOS One, making it relevant to rinse the mouth after consumption.

Sources: Health, Food Research International, Korean Journal of Urology, International Journal of Molecular Sciences, and PLOS One.

Your daily cup of coffee or tea may benefit the brain

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

4. May, 2026

Your daily cup of coffee or tea may benefit the brain

A long-term study published in JAMA Network and reported by Deník followed around 131,000 people from the United Kingdom and the United States for up to 43 years.

The participants, who primarily worked in the healthcare sector, regularly reported their consumption of coffee and tea.

Over the study period, more than 11,000 cases of dementia were recorded, corresponding to 8.4 percent of participants.

The aim was to examine how daily habits may be linked to brain function.

Uncertainty in the results

Researchers and other experts emphasize that the findings cannot be interpreted as a direct causal relationship.

The study is based on observations rather than controlled experiments. In addition, self-reported data may affect accuracy.

It is also noted that the results do not necessarily apply to the entire population, as the participants share a relatively uniform background.

Caffeinated beverages

The findings show that individuals with a moderate intake of caffeinated beverages had a lower incidence of dementia, as well as slightly better performance in memory and cognitive tests.

The lowest risk was observed among those who consumed around two to three cups of coffee or one to two cups of tea per day. This association was not found for decaffeinated coffee.

Moderate daily consumption of coffee or tea may be associated with a lower risk of dementia, but it does not prove a direct protective effect.

Sources: Deník and JAMA Network.

New colorectal cancer treatment significantly reduces recurrence

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

4. May, 2026

New colorectal cancer treatment significantly reduces recurrence

Traditionally, colorectal cancer is treated with surgery followed by chemotherapy, but newer clinical data suggest alternative sequencing, writes SciTechDaily.

In a UK phase trial, patients with stage II and III colorectal cancer were treated with immunotherapy before surgery.

Participants received up to nine weeks of treatment with pembrolizumab prior to surgery, after which their disease course was systematically monitored.

The UCL trial included 32 patients with a specific genetic profile, representing a small proportion of colorectal cancer cases.

This subgroup is known to respond differently to treatment compared with other patients.

Biological mechanisms and monitoring

Alongside treatment, individualized blood tests were developed to measure circulating tumor DNA.

These analyses made it possible to identify early signs of treatment response and assess the risk of recurrence.

The results showed a clear correlation between the disappearance of tumor DNA in the blood and the absence of disease over time.

In addition, immunoprofiling of tumor tissue was used to predict which patients were most likely to benefit from the treatment.

Implications for future treatment

Long-term follow-up over 33 months showed no cases of recurrence among participants, a marked contrast to standard treatment courses, where around a quarter of patients experience recurrence within three years.

At the same time, significant tumor reduction prior to surgery was observed in a large proportion of patients.

These results indicate that immunotherapy before surgery may change the prognosis for selected colorectal cancer patients and potentially reduce the need for subsequent treatment.

The timing of treatment may be crucial for long-term disease control in specific patient groups.

Sources: SciTechDaily and UCL.

Heavy metals found in oatmeal – cadmium in particular raises concerns

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

3. May, 2026

Heavy metals found in oatmeal – cadmium in particular raises concerns

The magazine 60 Millions de consommateurs analyzed 12 different oatmeal products in France.

The study included both organic and conventional varieties from well-known brands and supermarkets.

Findings in the analyses

The results show that no pesticides were found in the products. However, heavy metals such as mercury, arsenic, and especially cadmium were detected.

According to the study, these substances occur naturally in the environment, but they can also result from human activity. Cadmium was found in all the tested products.

A report from the French food safety authority Anses, cited by BFM, also shows that diet is the largest source of cadmium exposure.

It can account for up to 98 percent of total exposure among non-smokers.

Health risks

Authorities have set a limit on how much cadmium should be consumed per week.

The study shows that a daily portion of oatmeal can make up a large part of this limit, especially if other foods such as rice and chocolate are also consumed.

Mycotoxins were also found in some products. These are substances produced by fungi that can affect the body with long-term intake.

Oatmeal can contribute to the body’s total intake of cadmium and other unwanted substances, even though it is often perceived as healthy.

Sources: BFM, 60 Millions de consommateurs, and Anses.

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Exercise after surgery

New perspectives

Daily intake recommendations

Role in weight management

Choose pork carefully

Avoid too much salt

How the body reacts to salt

Recommended sodium intake

The impact of fat on blood pressure

Pork is leaner today

Nutrients in lean pork

Processed pork

Pick lean cuts

Trim visible fat

Skip adding salt

Use healthier cooking methods

Be mindful of marinades

Watch your portion sizes

Limit processed pork

Widespread use and concern

New research provides insight

Adjusted results

Testing new methods

A key difference

Differences in vitamin D

Possible consequences

Contains few calories

Important nutrients

Improves iron absorption

Lemon peel contains extra antioxidants

May reduce the risk of anemia

May reduce the risk of kidney stones

Heart health

Blood pressure and cholesterol

Protects against cell damage

May worsen stomach problems

May cause allergic reactions

May cause skin reactions upon contact

May damage tooth enamel

Uncertainty in the results

Caffeinated beverages

Biological mechanisms and monitoring

Implications for future treatment

Findings in the analyses

Health risks

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