welltica - The path to a better life. - Welltica focuses on improving your life.

Home Blog Page 62

Can plastic waste become medicine? New research shows promise

9. April, 2026

First, the plastic is broken down into small components using chemicals. These components are then used as nutrients for genetically modified bacteria, according to Forskning.no.

The bacteria are programmed to perform a new function: converting plastic into the compound levodopa.

Levodopa is used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. According to a study published in Nature Sustainability, the method demonstrates how waste can be given new value.

Limited impact

Although the idea is novel, its overall impact is limited. Far more plastic is produced globally than can be used for medicine production.

According to the United Nations, approximately 400 million tons of plastic are produced each year. At the same time, the demand for Parkinson’s medication is much lower.

A researcher from NTNU therefore assesses that the method does not solve the problem of plastic pollution. Moreover, there is currently no shortage of this type of medication.

Research rather than a solution

The method is primarily a research project. It demonstrates how scientists can alter the functions of bacteria.

The same research group has previously used similar methods to produce other substances, such as flavorings and painkillers.

There are also challenges related to safety and approval. New production methods in the pharmaceutical industry require extensive testing and regulation.

This is not a new way of producing medicine, but rather a demonstration of what biotechnology can be used for.

Sources: Forskning.no, Nature Sustainability, and the United Nations.

Can orange juice really be healthy? Research provides answers

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

9. April, 2026

Can orange juice really be healthy? Research provides answers

According to Videnskab.dk, which reports on research from the University of Westminster, daily intake of pure orange juice can alter the activity of many of the body’s genes.

These genes are linked to processes such as inflammation and blood pressure.

In a study published in Molecular Nutrition & Food Research involving adult participants, researchers found that genes typically active during stress and illness became less active over time.

This suggests that the body may respond positively to regular consumption.

At the same time, the body’s regulation of sugar and salt is affected, which also plays a role in overall health.

Effect on metabolism

A larger review of multiple studies published in Phytotherapy Research shows that regular intake may lead to lower cholesterol levels and improved blood sugar control. Both are important in preventing disease.

However, the research also indicates that the effects may vary from person to person.

Some individuals experience improvements in fat metabolism, while others primarily see reduced inflammation.

In addition, a study published in Frontiers in Microbiology suggests that pure orange juice may influence gut bacteria, which are important for both blood pressure and blood sugar regulation.

Significance over time

Although the changes are often small, they may become more significant if they persist over a longer period.

Regular consumption of pure orange juice has also been associated with improved blood vessel function.

However, it is important to remember that pure orange juice should be consumed in moderation and without added substances such as sugar.

Sources: Videnskab.dk, Molecular Nutrition & Food Research, Phytotherapy Research, and Frontiers in Microbiology.

How tea can affect your body if you drink it every day

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

9. April, 2026

How tea can affect your body if you drink it every day

Tea is one of the most popular beverages in the world and is only surpassed by water, according to the Tea Association of the U.S.A., as reported by Real Simple.

However, it is not only the taste that makes it appealing, as drinking tea daily may also have health effects.

Here is what experts from Real Simple highlight regarding the benefits and considerations of drinking tea every day.

The most widely consumed beverages in the world

Tea is the most consumed drink after water globally, although consumption varies depending on country and habits.

Tea contains antioxidants

Most types of tea provide antioxidants, which help the body fight harmful molecules.

Antioxidants can protect the body’s cells

Antioxidants work by neutralizing free radicals, which can otherwise damage cells and increase the risk of disease.

Green and white tea are particularly rich in antioxidants

These types of tea contain high levels of catechins because they are less fermented than other varieties, according to a study published in Antioxidants.

EGCG

Green and white tea contain the compound EGCG, which has both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Tea may help reduce inflammation

Regular tea consumption may help reduce inflammation in the body.

Daily tea consumption may support heart health

According to experts, tea may have a positive effect on the heart and circulatory system over time.

Tea may positively influence metabolism

Some studies suggest that tea can support the body’s metabolic functions.

Lower risk of disease

Daily consumption may help reduce the risk of certain diseases, including some forms of cancer.

Herbal tea also has nutritional benefits

Different herbal teas can provide vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C or calcium.

Additions to tea

Sugar may counteract some of the beneficial effects, and milk may affect the absorption of certain antioxidants.

The caffeine content may affect some individuals

Although tea generally contains less caffeine than coffee, several cups can still have an effect on sensitive individuals.

Tea may affect nutrient absorption

Compounds such as tannins can inhibit iron absorption, and fluoride may affect iodine absorption in some individuals.

The amount matters for the effect

For most adults, drinking between one and four cups of unsweetened tea daily is considered safe and beneficial.

Sources: Real Simple, the Tea Association of the U.S.A., and Antioxidants.

Vitamin B3 may affect the effectiveness of chemotherapy

Mie Hermansen

9. April, 2026

Vitamin B3 may affect the effectiveness of chemotherapy

Taking a daily supplement can feel like a smart, simple way to stay healthy. Many people rely on vitamins to boost energy, support recovery, or maintain long-term wellbeing.

But new research suggests that one common supplement may have unintended effects in a very specific situation.

An unexpected link

According to Tekniikanmaailma.fi, reporting on a study published in Cancer Letters, researchers from Case Western Reserve University examined compounds related to vitamin B3.

These supplements are known to increase NAD+ levels, a molecule essential for energy production in cells. In healthy individuals, this process is often associated with positive effects.

However, the same mechanism may also benefit cancer cells.

Impact on treatment

The study focused on pancreatic cancer, one of the most aggressive forms of the disease.

In laboratory tests and animal models, certain B3-related compounds appeared to reduce the effectiveness of chemotherapy.

Researchers found that these substances may:

increase energy production in cancer cells
help repair damage caused by treatment
reduce the likelihood of cell death

This combination can make cancer cells more resilient during therapy.

A targeted concern

The findings do not suggest that these supplements are harmful to healthy people. The concern is primarily for individuals with active cancer, particularly those undergoing chemotherapy.

Researchers recommend that patients discuss supplement use with their doctors and call for further clinical studies to better understand the risks.

How simple daily movement can improve life after 55

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

9. April, 2026

How simple daily movement can improve life after 55

Exercise is important for both physical health and well-being. It strengthens muscles and the cardiovascular system, improves sleep, and can reduce stress, writes elEconomista.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), older adults should be physically active several times a week to maintain their health.

At the same time, a good life is not only about exercise. Active aging also includes social relationships, learning, and a healthy lifestyle.

Experts also emphasize that the body changes with age, including a loss of muscle mass, which requires attention.

It is never too late

Figures from the Spanish Ministry of Education and Sports show that some people only begin to be physically active after the age of 55. Even so, a late start can still have a positive effect.

Even small changes in daily life can make a difference. Regular movement can help maintain strength and balance.

In addition, it is highlighted that better knowledge about exercise can help people make healthier choices.

Simple everyday advice

The recommendations become practical in daily life. Trainers point out that people should walk at least 20 minutes a day and choose stairs instead of elevators.

It is also recommended to do light stretching exercises and practice balance with simple routines.

Overall, the recommendations show that daily movement from around the age of 55 can help prevent age-related problems and support an active life.

Sources: ElEconomista, World Health Organization (WHO), and the Ministry of Education and Sports.

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

Mie Hermansen

8. April, 2026

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

Oranges are one of the most popular fruits and are known for their fresh taste and high nutrient content. According to an article from EatingWell, regular consumption can affect the body in several ways. Here’s what happens when oranges become a regular part of your diet.

Strengthens the immune system

Oranges contain high amounts of vitamin C, folate and antioxidants, which help support a stronger immune system and make it easier for the body to fight infections.

Contains powerful plant compounds

The fruit is rich in flavonoids such as hesperidin, which have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties and may support immune function.

May promote skin healing

Vitamin C plays an important role in collagen production, which is essential for skin structure, elasticity and wound healing.

May improve skin condition

When the body uses vitamin C to repair skin, its stores can be depleted, making regular intake important.

Supports healthy digestion

A whole orange contains dietary fiber, which many people lack and which is essential for proper digestive function.

May relieve constipation

The combination of water and soluble fiber in citrus fruits can help promote more regular bowel movements.

Benefits gut health

Citrus fruits may increase beneficial bacteria in the gut and support overall digestive health.

May reduce the risk of heart disease

The soluble fiber in oranges can help lower cholesterol levels, an important factor in preventing heart disease.

Contributes to better cholesterol balance

In addition to fiber, oranges contain flavonoids that may positively affect fat metabolism and reduce inflammation.

May help regulate blood pressure

The bioactive compounds in oranges may also play a role in lowering blood pressure.

Provides essential nutrients

“Oranges Fruits” by Daria Nepriakhina/ CC0 1.0

Oranges supply vitamin C, dietary fiber, folate and potassium as part of a balanced diet.

Has a moderate calorie content

“Orange Oranges” by Nooriyah Ali/ CC0 1.0

A medium-sized orange contains relatively few calories and no fat or cholesterol, making it a good snack option.

May trigger acid reflux symptoms

“Fruits Oranges” by JESHOOTS.com/ CC0 1.0

Because oranges are acidic, they may worsen symptoms in people with heartburn or reflux.

May affect skin with high intake

High consumption of citrus fruits has been linked to an increased risk of skin cancer, possibly due to light-sensitive compounds.

Can be used in many dishes

Oranges can be added to smoothies, salads, cooked meals or enjoyed as part of a snack with other foods.

Scientists move closer to expanding male birth control options

Mie Hermansen

8. April, 2026

Scientists move closer to expanding male birth control options

Many people rely on routine when it comes to contraception, often feeling that responsibility is unevenly shared.

For decades, options for men have barely evolved, leaving limited choices and hesitation around permanent procedures.

That long-standing imbalance may soon face a serious challenge, as highlighted in coverage by ScienceDaily and supported by new academic findings.

A new approach

According to ScienceDaily’s report on the study, researchers at Cornell University have been working on a nonhormonal method that could temporarily stop sperm production.

The findings, also published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, focus on interrupting meiosis, the biological process responsible for creating sperm cells.

Instead of altering hormones, the scientists used a compound called JQ1 to block a key stage in sperm development. The aim is to pause fertility without causing lasting damage.

The research was led by Paula Cohen, director of the Cornell Reproductive Sciences Center, whose team has spent years exploring alternative birth control strategies.

What the study showed

Experiments on mice produced encouraging results. As reported by ScienceDaily and detailed in the PNAS publication, sperm production stopped entirely during treatment.

After treatment ended, the effects reversed:

Fertility returned within weeks
Normal sperm production resumed
Offspring were healthy and fertile

Importantly, the approach did not harm stem cells, which are essential for long-term reproductive function.

What comes next

Although promising, the current compound is not suitable for human use due to side effects.

Still, according to both ScienceDaily and Cornell University, the findings demonstrate that targeting meiosis could become a viable path for male birth control.

Future versions may come as injections or patches, offering a reversible and long-lasting option.

If successful, this could significantly change how birth control responsibility is shared.

This is why you should choose anchovies over tuna, according to science

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

8. April, 2026

This is why you should choose anchovies over tuna, according to science

For many people, canned fish is an easy solution when meals need to be quick. Consumers often choose tuna, but other types of fish are receiving increasing attention, writes WP abcZdrowie.

According to a 2025 study published in Frontiers in Nutrition, anchovies contain a high amount of protein and healthy fats.

The protein content ranges from approximately 17.65% to 20.24%, while the fat content varies between 5.29% and 14.51%.

It is particularly the fat that is of interest, as it contains important nutrients.

Lower risk

Small fish have an advantage when it comes to harmful substances. They have shorter lifespans and are lower in the food chain, meaning they accumulate less mercury.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) places these fish in the “Best Choices” category, which includes fish with lower mercury levels.

This makes them a safer option for people who eat fish frequently.

A healthy alternative

Omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA and DHA are important for the heart and brain.

A 2024 review in the Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences highlights fatty marine fish as an important source of these nutrients.

At the same time, canned fish is easy to use in cooking and requires no preparation.

The key point is that tuna is not necessarily the best choice.

According to the research, anchovies are a healthy alternative with strong nutritional value and lower mercury content.

However, they may contain high levels of salt, which should be taken into consideration.

Sources: WP abcZdrowie, Frontiers in Nutrition, Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and the FDA.

Low testosterone levels may increase prostate cancer risk by 60 percent

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

8. April, 2026

Low testosterone levels may increase prostate cancer risk by 60 percent

Prostate cancer is a very common form of cancer among men, according to Welt.

For many, the disease develops slowly and without clear symptoms in its early stages.

However, some patients develop a more aggressive form that can quickly spread to other parts of the body.

This makes it important to be able to predict which patients are at risk.

Treatment and assessment

In cases of early-stage prostate cancer, doctors often choose active surveillance. This means monitoring the disease instead of starting treatment immediately.

The aim is to avoid unnecessary treatment if the cancer progresses slowly. However, this requires doctors to assess the risk accurately.

Today, factors such as age, BMI, and blood tests are used to evaluate the progression of the disease. Nevertheless, it remains difficult to predict who will develop an aggressive form.

New insights

According to a study from the University of Texas, published in the Journal of Urology and reported by Welt, the hormone testosterone may play an important role.

Researchers analyzed data from more than 900 men. The results showed that men with low testosterone levels had a higher risk of developing an aggressive form of cancer.

In particular, men with levels below 300 ng/dl had approximately a 60 percent higher risk of the disease becoming severe.

The study does not show that low testosterone causes aggressive cancer, but it suggests that hormone levels could be used as an important indicator when doctors assess disease progression.

Sources: Welt, and Journal of Urology.

Avoid food poisoning: The right way to store leftovers

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

8. April, 2026

Avoid food poisoning: The right way to store leftovers

Many people save leftovers for later without giving it much thought. This could include pizza, rice, or chicken from the day before.

According to The Independent, it is often not the cooking itself, but the way the food is stored that can cause problems.

Microbiologist Primrose Freestone explains, according to Allas, that bacteria can develop quickly if food is left at room temperature for too long.

Even food that looks fine can therefore be unsafe to eat.

Foods at risk

Some foods require extra attention. Pizza should be refrigerated within two hours; otherwise, bacteria can begin to grow, writes The Independent.

Chicken is also a well-known source of food poisoning. If it is not fully cooked, it should be discarded.

Even properly cooked chicken must be refrigerated quickly and eaten within a few days.

Rice is another common example. Bacterial spores can survive cooking and become active again if the rice is not cooled quickly.

How to avoid problems

Storage is crucial for safety. Opened cans should be transferred to sealed containers to avoid bacteria from the surroundings, according to Primrose Freestone.

Refrigeration does not completely stop bacteria but slows their growth. Therefore, it is important to eat leftovers in time and cool them quickly.

The issue is not the food itself, but how it is handled afterward. Improper storage can turn perfectly ordinary leftovers into a risk for food poisoning.

Sources: Allas and The Independent.

1...616263...367 Page 62 of 367

Limited impact

Research rather than a solution

Effect on metabolism

Significance over time

The most widely consumed beverages in the world

Tea contains antioxidants

Antioxidants can protect the body’s cells

Green and white tea are particularly rich in antioxidants

EGCG

Tea may help reduce inflammation

Daily tea consumption may support heart health

Tea may positively influence metabolism

Lower risk of disease

Herbal tea also has nutritional benefits

Additions to tea

The caffeine content may affect some individuals

Tea may affect nutrient absorption

The amount matters for the effect

An unexpected link

Impact on treatment

A targeted concern

It is never too late

Simple everyday advice

Strengthens the immune system

Contains powerful plant compounds

May promote skin healing

May improve skin condition

Supports healthy digestion

May relieve constipation

Benefits gut health

May reduce the risk of heart disease

Contributes to better cholesterol balance

May help regulate blood pressure

Provides essential nutrients

Has a moderate calorie content

May trigger acid reflux symptoms

May affect skin with high intake

Can be used in many dishes

A new approach

What the study showed

What comes next

Lower risk

A healthy alternative

Treatment and assessment

New insights

Foods at risk

How to avoid problems

Follow us

Categories

Latest News

Popular News