Scientists are increasingly working on ways to utilize by-products from food production.
A study from the National University of Singapore, published in Food Chemistryand reported by SciTechDaily, shows that the peel of red dragon fruit, which is usually discarded, can be used in a new way.
Instead of using the whole peel, the researchers extracted a purified compound. This provides more stable and consistent results in food applications.
At the same time, the work points to a potential way to reduce food waste.
Chemical properties
The extract contains betacyanins, which are natural pigments. They are stable in food and dissolve easily in water, making them simple to incorporate into dough.
Experiments show that these compounds affect gluten in the dough. In small amounts, they improve the structure, allowing the bread to rise better.
If too much is added, however, the dough becomes weaker and less elastic.
Compared with similar compounds, betacyanins may also be easier for the body to absorb.
Effects on health
When the extract is added to bread, it also changes the nutritional content. The bread has a higher level of antioxidants than regular wheat bread.
In addition, the starch is broken down more slowly during digestion. This may influence blood sugar levels, as the body absorbs energy more gradually.
The best results are achieved with an addition of 0.75 percent. At this level, the balance between good baking quality and improved nutrition is optimal.
Metformin has been used for more than 60 years to treat type 2 diabetes. The medication is known to be both effective and inexpensive.
Until now, it has primarily been believed to work by affecting the liver and the gut.
According to research published in Science Advancesand reported by SciTechDaily, researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have investigated whether the brain also plays a role.
The researchers focused on a region of the brain called the hypothalamus, which helps regulate energy and sugar balance in the body.
Experiments with mice
In the study, the researchers worked with mice in which they removed a specific protein, Rap1, from this brain region.
When the protein was absent, metformin no longer affected blood sugar levels.
Other types of diabetes medication still had an effect, suggesting that metformin works in a unique way.
The researchers also found that metformin can reach the brain. Even very small amounts had a clear effect when administered directly.
New possibilities
The results show that the brain responds strongly to metformin, even at low doses. This may have implications for the future treatment of diabetes.
Metformin not only acts in the body’s organs but also affects the brain through the protein Rap1.
This knowledge could eventually lead to more precise treatments with fewer side effects.
There’s something about warmer days that pulls people outside. Walks in the park, time in the garden, or a quiet afternoon in nature suddenly become part of everyday life again. But with that shift comes a small, often overlooked risk.
According to research from Masaryk University, scientists are taking a closer look at what actually draws ticks to humans, reports Deník.cz
Their findings suggest that it may not be entirely random who gets bitten more often.
What attracts ticks
Ticks are known carriers of infections such as Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis.
They become active when temperatures rise above just a few degrees, meaning early spring already marks the start of the season.
In a controlled laboratory study, researchers observed how ticks reacted to different blood samples. The results indicated a noticeable pattern in their choices.
Surprising preference
The study showed that ticks were most frequently drawn to blood type A. Types 0 and AB followed, while type B appeared to be the least attractive.
However, experts stress that these findings come with limitations. The experiment took place under laboratory conditions, which do not fully reflect real-life environments where many other factors influence tick behavior.
Stay protected
Researchers and medical professionals emphasize that blood type alone does not determine risk. Time spent outdoors, clothing, and surroundings all play a role in exposure.
To reduce the chance of bites, experts recommend:
Using insect repellent
Wearing long sleeves and covered clothing
Checking the body after being outdoors
Even with new insights, caution remains essential throughout the warmer months.
Milk has long been debated, but research shows that it may offer several health benefits.
Here is an overview of what actually happens in the body with daily consumption, according to EatingWell.
Strengthens your bones
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Milk contains both calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for building and maintaining strong bones.
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, which may help prevent osteoporosis.
Good source of protein
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Milk serves as a vegetarian source of protein, contributing to the body’s building and maintenance of muscles and tissues.
Supports weight loss or weight balance
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The combination of carbohydrates, protein, and fat in milk makes it filling, which can help regulate hunger and support a healthy weight.
Provides energy for the body
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The carbohydrates in milk provide energy, helping the body function optimally in everyday life.
Increases satiety
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Protein and fat in milk can make you feel fuller after consumption, which may make it easier to eat a balanced diet.
Does not necessarily negatively affect weight
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Research published in The New England Journal of Medicine shows that milk and dairy products do not lead to weight gain, but not necessarily to weight loss either.
Impact on type 2 diabetes
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A study published in Clinical Nutrition indicates that milk did not show an increased effect in developing prediabetes.
However, the results are not consistent. For example, another study published in Cardiovascular Endocrinology & Metabolism found a positive association between the development of prediabetes and milk consumption.
Effect on heart health
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There are conflicting results, but some studies, such as one published in Nutrition & Metabolism, show that dairy products may be associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.
May contribute to better brain function
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Milk consumption has been linked in a study published in Nutrients to a lower risk of cognitive decline and diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
Provides important nutrients
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A glass of milk contains vitamin B12, calcium, and potassium, as well as protein and fat, all of which are important for the body.
Problems with lactose intolerance
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People lacking the enzyme lactase may experience digestive issues when consuming milk, as they are unable to break down lactose.
Relevant in case of allergy
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Milk allergy may make it necessary to completely avoid milk and dairy products.
Cancer risks
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Research published in Nutrients suggests that high intake may be associated with a lower risk of certain cancers, such as colorectal cancer, while the link to other types of cancer remains unclear.
Can be used in many dishes
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Milk is a versatile ingredient that can be used in smoothies, soups, sauces, and desserts to provide a creamy consistency.
Sources: EatingWell, The New England Journal of Medicine, Clinical Nutrition, Cardiovascular Endocrinology & Metabolism, Nutrition & Metabolism, and Nutrients.
Fatty liver is a condition often associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes, and an unhealthy lifestyle.
It affects the body’s ability to process fat and, in the worst cases, can lead to serious liver damage.
Researchers know that different types of dietary fats play a role. Some fatty acids may worsen the condition, while others may have a protective effect.
Diet is therefore an important part of treatment, and research is focusing on which foods may make a difference, according to News-Medical.
Orange study
In a study published in the journal Nutrients, 60 people with fatty liver took part in a trial in Italy.
They were between 30 and 65 years old and also had other risk factors such as obesity or diabetes.
The participants were divided into two groups. One group ate 400 grams of oranges every day for four weeks, while the other group did not.
Both groups received dietary guidance and were instructed, among other things, to limit alcohol and certain foods. Researchers took blood samples before and after the trial.
What did the results show?
The results did not show clear differences between the two groups. However, researchers observed small changes among those who ate oranges.
There was, among other things, a slight tendency toward lower cholesterol levels and minor changes in fatty acids, which may be relevant to inflammation in the body.
The study suggests that oranges may have a modest effect on the body’s fat metabolism, but this has not yet been fully proven.
More research is needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.
Sugar-free soft drinks seem like a healthy choice because they contain no sugar and almost no calories.
According to Voedingscentrum, as reported by Women’s Health, this is exactly why they have a better reputation than regular soda.
However, calories do not tell the whole story. It is also important to consider what the product contains in terms of nutrients such as vitamins, fiber, and minerals that the body needs.
Not black and white
Many people think that food is either healthy or unhealthy, but that is not how it works in reality.
Voedingscentrum explains that a product can be a better choice without necessarily being healthy.
Sugar-free soft drinks do not contain sugar, but they also do not provide anything the body needs.
At the same time, they contain acids that can damage teeth, which is why they are not part of the official dietary guidelines.
How much can you drink?
Sweeteners in soft drinks often spark debate. According to Voedingscentrum, there are limits to how much can be consumed, and these limits are difficult to reach with normal intake.
This means it is generally safe to drink them occasionally. Nevertheless, it is recommended to choose water, tea, or coffee without sugar on a daily basis.
Sugar-free soft drinks are not a healthy choice in themselves, but they are not necessarily a problem if consumed once in a while.
Chicken is a popular source of protein that many people eat regularly. But what does it actually mean for the body if it becomes a daily habit?
Here are the key insights based on research and nutrition information from EatingWell.
Essential amino acids
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Chicken contains all nine essential amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own. These are necessary for building important proteins in the body.
Supports important bodily functions
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Proteins from chicken contribute to the production of hormones, immune cells, and muscle growth, all of which are crucial for the body’s functioning.
Easier to meet protein needs
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A serving of chicken of about 113 grams provides around 35 grams of protein, making it easier to meet daily requirements.
Cells and muscles
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Protein helps the body repair and build cells, including muscle tissue, and is therefore a central part of the diet.
Protein requirements
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The recommended protein intake depends on body weight and life stage, and requirements may change over time.
Healthy metabolism
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Chicken contains several B vitamins such as niacin, thiamin, and folate, which are important for metabolism.
B vitamins must be consumed daily
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These vitamins are water-soluble and are not stored in the body, making daily intake necessary.
May support weight loss
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A higher protein intake can increase the feeling of fullness, making it easier to control appetite.
Satiety can reduce calorie intake
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Feeling full for longer may help reduce overall food intake and support weight loss goals, according to a study published in Nutrients.
Contains several nutrients
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In addition to protein, chicken contains selenium, phosphorus, and vitamin B3, all of which play a role in the body’s functioning.
Different cuts have different nutrition
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Chicken breast contains less fat and more protein, while chicken thighs contain more fat and have a higher calorie content.
Lack of variety
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If chicken is the only protein source, you may miss out on other important nutrients from a varied diet.
Lack of healthy fats
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Lean chicken contains very little fat, which can lead to a low intake of essential fatty acids such as omega-3.
Healthy fats
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To achieve a more balanced diet, you can add fat sources such as olive oil or avocado alongside chicken.
Variety in protein sources is important
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Other protein sources such as fish, eggs, legumes, and nuts provide different nutrients and should be included in the diet.
Variety also makes meals more interesting
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Switching between different protein sources can both improve nutrition and make meals more interesting.
You know that uneasy feeling when a child suddenly gets sick and you’re not sure if it’s something minor or the start of something more serious.
It’s a worry many families share, especially during colder months when viruses tend to circulate more aggressively.
Health researchers and surveillance groups, including data tracked by WastewaterScan and guidance from the CDC, are now pointing to a noticeable rise in rotavirus infections across parts of the United States, reports Unilad.
The increase has caught attention because it appears higher than the same period last year.
Rising concern
Rotavirus is not new, but its resurgence is raising questions among health professionals.
It spreads easily through contaminated surfaces and hand-to-mouth contact, making it particularly difficult to contain in households and childcare settings.
Historically, vaccination programs significantly reduced severe cases. Experts now suggest that lower vaccination uptake in some areas may be contributing to the renewed spread and preventable hospital visits.
Symptoms to watch
The infection typically develops quickly, often within a couple of days. It primarily affects the digestive system and can escalate fast, especially in young children.
Common warning signs include:
Frequent watery diarrhea
Vomiting
Fever and stomach pain
Signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, low urination, or fatigue
Medical professionals stress that dehydration is the most dangerous complication, particularly for infants and toddlers.
Treatment reality
There is no targeted cure for rotavirus. Because it is viral, antibiotics offer no benefit. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing dehydration through fluids or, in severe cases, hospital care.
Public health agencies emphasize that vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure, reducing both severity and spread.
Daily activities such as walking and cycling have become a regular part of many people’s routines.
At the same time, figures from RIVM, according to Gezondnu, indicate that more hours of sedentary work may lead to increasing rates of overweight in the future.
Working from home in particular has changed activity levels. This makes it more important to incorporate movement as a regular part of daily life.
What does the research show?
A study from April 2026, published in the journal European Heart Journal, analyzed data from hundreds of thousands of people in the United Kingdom.
Different forms of physical activity were compared with the risk of diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and dementia.
The analysis shows that it is not only the amount of exercise that matters; the way you move also plays a role in your health.
The key difference
The results suggest that a small portion of daily activity should be more intensive.
People who moved at a slightly faster pace had a lower risk of several diseases.
This means that it is not necessarily about spending more time exercising. Instead, short periods of higher intensity can make a difference.
For example, this could involve walking slightly faster for a few minutes at a time.
Sources: Gezondnu, RIVM, and European Heart Journal.
A sudden loss has drawn attention to a medical emergency that often strikes without much warning.
For many, the early symptoms can be easy to overlook or misinterpret in everyday life.
The death of a well-known actor has now prompted renewed focus on how to recognise the signs and act quickly when it matters most, according to LADbible.
A sudden loss
Actor Patrick Muldoon died on Sunday at the age of 57 after reportedly suffering a heart attack, according to Deadline.
A friend described him as “stylish, charismatic, and full of life,” while also remembering his warmth and generosity.
Tributes highlighted his personality, with the same source adding he was “endlessly generous” and “embraced each day with a full-tilt, rock ’n’ roll spirit.”
Muldoon built his career in the 1990s, gaining recognition in Saved by the Bell before appearing in Days of Our Lives, Melrose Place and films including Starship Troopers.
Understanding the risk
Health authorities such as the NHS explain that heart attacks occur when blood flow to the heart is blocked, most often by a clot. This interruption can cause serious damage if not treated immediately.
Risk factors include smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes and family history, according to public health guidance.
The British Heart Foundation notes that symptoms can differ widely between individuals and may not always be obvious or severe at first.
Warning signs
Common symptoms linked to heart attacks include:
Chest pain or pressure spreading to arm, neck or jaw
Shortness of breath
Nausea or vomiting
Indigestion-like discomfort
Sweating or pale skin
Muldoon had recently shared his excitement about a new film project shortly before his death, highlighting the unexpected nature of such events.
Final tributes
Following the news, fans shared messages online remembering his work and personality. Muldoon is survived by his partner and parents.
His death has also renewed calls for greater awareness of cardiovascular health and early symptom recognition.
