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A new treatment is giving deaf patients the chance to hear

7. April, 2026

Sound is something most people rarely think about. A voice, a laugh, a passing car — it all blends into everyday life without effort.

But for those born without hearing, that world is silent. And for years, treatment options have been limited, often focusing on managing rather than restoring.

Now, new research suggests that may be starting to change, according to Science Daily.

A breakthrough trial

Scientists at Karolinska Institutet, working with several hospitals in China, have tested a new form of gene therapy aimed at restoring hearing in people born deaf.

The study, published in Nature Medicine, involved ten patients aged between 1 and 24, all with a genetic condition linked to the OTOF gene.

This gene plays a key role in transmitting sound signals from the inner ear to the brain. When it does not function properly, hearing is severely impaired from birth.

Fast improvements

Instead of long-term treatment, researchers used a single injection to deliver a healthy version of the gene directly into the inner ear.

The results appeared quickly. Many participants began to detect sound within weeks, and after six months all showed clear improvement.

On average, hearing ability improved significantly, moving from levels associated with profound hearing loss to ranges where speech becomes more accessible.

Younger patients experienced the most noticeable changes, but adults also showed meaningful progress.

What comes next

The treatment was generally well tolerated, with no serious side effects reported during the follow-up period.

Researchers now see this as an early step toward broader genetic treatments for hearing loss.

Key points from the study:

A single injection was enough to trigger improvement
Effects appeared within weeks for many patients
Both children and adults responded to treatment

Future work will explore similar therapies targeting other genes linked to deafness, which could expand the impact of this approach.

How swallowing gum can affect the body

Body

Mie Hermansen

7. April, 2026

Chewing gum has long been surrounded by myths, especially the idea that it stays in the body for years. According to experts cited in Martha Stewart, the process is actually much simpler. Here’s what they explain.

The seven-year myth isn’t true

The common claim that gum stays in the stomach for seven years is false. There is no scientific evidence behind it, and the body gets rid of it much sooner.

The body handles it like other substances

Although gum doesn’t break down like regular food, it still moves through the digestive system and is eventually eliminated.

From mouth to stomach

Once swallowed, gum travels down the esophagus and into the stomach as part of the body’s normal digestive process.

Stomach acid acts on it

In the stomach, gum is exposed to digestive acids, which affect some of its ingredients even though it doesn’t fully dissolve.

Moving through the digestive tract

After the stomach, it continues through the small intestine and large intestine before leaving the body.

Some ingredients are absorbed

Certain components, such as sweeteners, may be broken down and absorbed during digestion, while the rest passes through.

It doesn’t slow digestion

Swallowed gum does not interfere with or delay the digestion of other foods.

Generally harmless for most people

For healthy individuals, swallowing gum occasionally is not considered harmful.

Risks with intestinal blockages

In people with partial intestinal blockages, gum could in rare cases worsen the condition and lead to a more serious obstruction.

Higher risk for certain groups

Young children and individuals with serious gastrointestinal conditions or a history of digestive surgeries may face a higher risk of complications.

Larger amounts increase the risk

Swallowing multiple pieces or a large wad of gum increases the chance that it could become stuck.

Much of it remains undigested

A significant portion of gum passes through the body without being fully digested, as long as the digestive system is functioning normally.

Gum can cause bloating

Frequent gum chewing may lead to bloating due to swallowed air and certain sweeteners.

It can affect jaw muscles

Over time, regular chewing may enlarge the chewing muscles and potentially alter facial shape.

Not ideal for teeth grinding

For those who grind their teeth, gum chewing may worsen the issue by putting additional strain on the same muscles.

Doctor raises concerns over cereals and juice as a daily breakfast

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

7. April, 2026

Doctor raises concerns over cereals and juice as a daily breakfast

Many people start the day with a simple breakfast in which cereals and juice are standard elements, writes LADbible.

It is easy, quick, and widely accepted as part of a typical diet.

At the same time, there has been growing focus on how diet affects the body.

Processed foods, in particular, have come under increased scrutiny in both research and public debate.

What do breakfast cereals contain?

According to Healthline, many breakfast cereals are highly processed and contain large amounts of sugar and refined carbohydrates. This is especially true for the most popular varieties.

Fruit juice is often perceived as healthy, but it also contains a high concentration of sugar.

The Telegraph highlights that, in some cases, the sugar content in juice can be comparable to that of soft drinks.

Experts therefore point out that whole fruits are a better choice, as they contain fiber and do not cause the same rapid spike in blood sugar.

An overall assessment

According to LADbible, American doctor Eric Berg has warned against the combination of breakfast cereals and juice.

He believes that the meal as a whole results in a very high sugar intake.

Over time, such a diet can place strain on the body and increase the risk of conditions such as fatty liver disease and other metabolic disorders.

This very common breakfast is not necessarily as healthy as many people believe.

Sources: LADbible, Healthline, and The Telegraph.

New drug shows promise for patients with high blood pressure

Mie Hermansen

7. April, 2026

New drug shows promise for patients with high blood pressure

A routine check-up can sometimes end with the same frustrating message: your blood pressure is still too high.

For many, even a combination of medications isn’t enough, leaving doctors with limited options and patients with growing concern.

Researchers now believe a new treatment could change that, according to Science Daily

A new approach

Scientists from University College London have tested a drug called baxdrostat in patients whose blood pressure remains uncontrolled despite existing therapies.

The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, involved nearly 800 participants across more than 200 clinics worldwide.

After 12 weeks, patients taking the drug saw their blood pressure fall by close to 10 mmHg compared to those given a placebo.

According to the researchers, this level of reduction can significantly lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

How it works

The treatment targets aldosterone, a hormone that regulates salt and fluid levels in the body.

In some people, excess production of this hormone contributes to persistently high blood pressure.

By blocking aldosterone production, baxdrostat addresses an underlying cause rather than simply managing symptoms.

This may explain why it showed results in patients who had not responded to other medications.

Potential impact

Hypertension affects around 1.3 billion people globally, with many unable to reach recommended levels.

Key findings include:

Around 40% achieved healthier blood pressure
Effects lasted up to 32 weeks
No major safety concerns were reported

Researchers suggest the drug could benefit millions worldwide, particularly those with resistant hypertension.

These nail changes may indicate underlying heart or liver conditions

Mie Hermansen

7. April, 2026

These nail changes may indicate underlying heart or liver conditions

A small detail in your daily routine might be telling you more than you realise. Many people glance at their hands without giving them much thought, yet subtle changes can quietly reflect what is happening inside the body.

Health experts say these everyday signs are often overlooked, even though they can sometimes point to more serious conditions developing over time.

Subtle nail changes

According to reporting by the Daily Mirror, shifts in nail colour, texture and shape can occasionally hint at underlying health problems linked to vital organs.

One specific pattern, known as Terry’s nails, involves nails appearing pale or washed out, often with a darker band near the tip. This visual change can reduce or completely obscure the usual half-moon shape at the base.

Researchers behind a 2017 study titled Terry’s Nails: A Sign of Systemic Disease noted that this pattern has been associated with conditions affecting the liver, heart and kidneys, including cirrhosis and heart failure.

When it matters

In many cases, nail changes are harmless and linked to ageing or everyday factors. However, experts advise paying attention when the majority of nails show the same unusual appearance.

Other early warning signs linked to heart or liver problems may develop gradually, including low energy, breathing difficulties or mild swelling.

Liver conditions, especially in early stages, can remain largely symptomless, making indirect clues more significant.

If unusual nail patterns appear alongside general health changes, seeking medical advice is recommended for proper evaluation.

Common explanations

Most nail issues have simple causes and do not indicate serious illness. Everyday habits and minor conditions are often responsible, including:

Frequent exposure to water or cleaning products
Nail biting or minor injuries
Use of nail polish or staining substances
Fungal infections
Natural ageing or hormonal changes

Health services such as the NHS note that nails can naturally become more brittle, thicker or discoloured over time.

Even so, persistent or unusual changes should not be ignored, as nails can occasionally act as an early signal that something deeper requires attention.

Can you eat too much fruit? Here’s what experts say

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

7. April, 2026

Can you eat too much fruit? Here’s what experts say

Fruit is an important part of a healthy diet, but many people are unsure how much they should actually eat.

Here are the key points about fruit, health, and common myths, based on the British Heart Foundation.

Fruit is part of a balanced diet

According to dietary guidelines, just over a third of your daily food intake should consist of fruit and vegetables.

It is possible to have too much of anything

Even healthy foods like fruit can be eaten in excessive amounts, but this is rarely a problem in practice.

Fruit contains many nutrients

Whole fruits are rich in fiber, water, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health.

Fruit helps you feel full

The fiber and water content in fruit mean it is digested more slowly and provides a longer-lasting feeling of fullness.

The sugar in fruit is natural

Fruit naturally contains sugar, which is bound within the structure of the fruit and is not the same as added sugar.

Fruit can help with weight control

Fruit is low in calories and can therefore be a good part of a diet if you want to maintain your weight.

Sweets and cakes contain free sugars

Unlike fruit, sugary treats contain added sugars and often fat, which can contribute to weight gain.

Fruit can be a healthier alternative

A banana contains less sugar and fewer calories than a chocolate bar and is therefore a better choice.

Juice and smoothies can be problematic

When fruit is pressed into juice, its structure is broken down, releasing sugar and removing fiber.

Juice should be limited

It is recommended to limit fruit juice intake to a maximum of 150 ml per day.

Liquid fruit makes it easier to consume too much sugar

It is easier to drink several fruits in juice form than to eat them whole, which increases sugar intake.

Fruit does not cause diabetes

Natural sugar in whole fruit does not increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Fruit may protect against disease

A high intake of fruit and vegetables is associated with a lower risk of heart disease and better long-term health.

Free sugars increase the risk of diabetes

Foods with added sugar can contribute to weight gain, which is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes.

Sugary drinks increase the risk

Soft drinks and other sugary beverages are also linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.

More research is still needed

It is not yet fully understood why sugary drinks increase the risk, as it may not be solely related to weight.

How much fruit should you eat daily?

It is recommended to eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables per day, without a fixed ratio between the two, but with a focus on variety.

Sources: British Heart Foundation.

How creatine affects the body and brain

Mie Hermansen

7. April, 2026

You’ve probably stood in a gym or scrolled through fitness content wondering whether that one supplement everyone talks about actually lives up to the hype.

It’s easy to follow trends, but much harder to understand what’s really happening inside your body.

According to LadBible, alongside findings from the Cleveland Clinic and research published in Scientific Reports, creatine is far more complex than its reputation suggests.

What it does

Creatine is naturally produced in the body and also absorbed through food, especially protein sources. Supplements increase those existing levels rather than replacing them.

Once inside the body, it is stored mainly in the muscles, where it helps form phosphocreatine.

This substance supports the production of ATP, which acts as a rapid energy source during intense activity.

This process explains why many users experience improved strength, better performance, and faster recovery after workouts.

Beyond fitness

Research has also explored how creatine may influence the brain. Studies suggest it can help the body cope with fatigue and may support mental performance during sleep deprivation.

Some scientists believe it could play a role in reducing inflammation and protecting brain cells.

There are also indications it may contribute to improved mood and resilience against stress-related conditions.

These broader effects are why creatine is increasingly being studied outside of purely athletic contexts.

What to watch

Despite its popularity, taking too much can lead to unwanted effects. Health experts caution that excessive intake may irritate the digestive system.

Some studies have also pointed to potential kidney strain when used in high quantities over longer periods.

Common short-term effects include:

bloating from water retention
mild stomach discomfort
temporary weight increase

Used responsibly, creatine remains one of the most researched supplements, but like any compound affecting the body, it comes with both benefits and limitations.

Experts say sleeping position may affect skin ageing

Mie Hermansen

7. April, 2026

Experts say sleeping position may affect skin ageing

It’s often the small, unnoticed routines that shape how we look over time. From the way you rest at night to habits you barely think about, these patterns can leave subtle marks that only become visible years later.

Many people invest in skincare products hoping to slow ageing. But according to medical experts, what happens while you sleep may play a surprisingly important role.

A nightly pressure

According to a report by LADbible, NHS doctor Dr Raj Arora has highlighted how a common sleeping position could contribute to faster visible ageing.

Sleeping on your side places continuous pressure on the same areas of the face for hours.

This repeated contact with a pillow creates friction that can gradually form lines in the skin. Over time, these marks can deepen, especially if the same position is repeated night after night.

Uneven ageing signs

As reported by LADbible, Dr Arora also points out that consistently favouring one side may lead to uneven ageing across the face.

Skin naturally loses elasticity as people get older, making it harder for it to recover from repeated compression. This can result in one side developing more pronounced lines than the other.

Sleep neurologist Rachel Salas has also noted in broader sleep research that lying on your back is generally considered the most protective position for the skin, as it avoids direct facial pressure.

Simple daily fixes

Experts referenced in the LADbible report suggest that small, consistent adjustments can help reduce these effects over time:

Switching to silk or satin pillowcases to minimise friction
Wearing SPF daily to protect against UV-related ageing
Drinking enough water to support skin elasticity
Avoiding nicotine, which can reduce blood flow to the skin

While ageing is inevitable, these everyday habits may influence how quickly visible signs appear.

Do you walk 20 minutes a day? Here’s what it can do for your body

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

7. April, 2026

Do you walk 20 minutes a day? Here’s what it can do for your body

Many people try to improve their health through major changes, but these can be difficult to maintain. Smaller adjustments in everyday life are often more realistic.

A daily 20-minute walk requires neither special equipment nor planning.

According to Parade and research cited in Current Opinion in Cardiology, regular walking can be an effective way to improve overall health.

At the same time, studies show that walking can have similar effects to running on factors such as blood pressure and cholesterol.

Better for the body

Walking strengthens the circulatory system and helps the heart function more efficiently.

It improves blood flow and can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

In addition, a short walk can help keep blood sugar levels stable, especially after meals.

A review published in Nutrition, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases shows that walking can play an important role in managing type 2 diabetes.

Physical activity is also associated with a stronger immune system, according to a study published in the Journal of Sport and Health Science.

Good for the brain

When circulation improves, the brain receives more oxygen. This can enhance memory and concentration.

Research published in GeroScience also suggests that regular walking may reduce the risk of dementia.

Over the long term, this habit may also affect lifespan. Studies show that even a moderate level of activity can reduce the risk of premature death.

Research from GeroScience further highlights that daily movement is a common factor in regions where people live longer.

A simple 20-minute daily walk can have documented benefits for both body and brain.

Sources: Parade, Current Opinion in Cardiology, Nutrition, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases, Journal of Sport and Health Science, and GeroScience.

How daily energy drink consumption affects your body

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

6. April, 2026

How daily energy drink consumption affects your body

Energy drinks have become a popular choice for many people seeking a quick boost in a busy everyday life.

Although they can increase alertness and provide more energy in the short term, daily consumption may also have a number of consequences worth being aware of, according to EatingWell.

What energy drinks contain

Photo: Aleksandr Medvedkov / Shutterstock.com

Energy drinks typically contain between 80 and 200 mg of caffeine per can, as well as sugar and various additives such as guarana, ginseng, and amino acids.

They have become extremely popular

The energy drink market has grown significantly, and there is now a wide selection of brands and varieties available in supermarkets.

A substitute for coffee

Many people choose energy drinks as an alternative to coffee because they provide a quick energy boost in daily life.

You may feel more alert

Caffeine can increase alertness, improve reaction time, and create a feeling of increased energy and improved mood.

Your performance may improve temporarily

Some individuals experience improved physical endurance and therefore use energy drinks before workouts or long days.

Your nervous system may be affected

A high intake of caffeine and stimulants can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing, while also causing restlessness in the body.

You may experience anxiety and poor sleep

Energy drinks may lead to restlessness, nervousness, and sleep problems, especially if consumed frequently or in large amounts.

The amount of caffeine may be uncertain

Because energy drinks are not regulated in the same way, the caffeine content may differ from what is stated on the label.

You may become dependent on caffeine

Photo: Cristi Croitoru / Shutterstock.com

Frequent consumption can lead to dependency, where the body requires larger amounts to achieve the same effect.

Your sugar intake may increase significantly

Many energy drinks contain large amounts of added sugar, which can exceed the recommended daily intake.

You may experience energy crashes afterward

A rapid sugar boost may be followed by a drop in blood sugar levels, making you feel more tired than before.

They are not safe for everyone

Children, adolescents, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and people who consume alcohol should avoid energy drinks or exercise particular caution.

Better alternatives exist

Drinks such as water, coffee, tea, milk, smoothies, and juice can also provide energy without the same risks.

Experts recommend moderation

Although energy drinks can fit into a diet occasionally, experts believe that the benefits rarely outweigh the disadvantages of daily consumption.

Sources: EatingWell.

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A breakthrough trial

Fast improvements

What comes next

The seven-year myth isn’t true

The body handles it like other substances

From mouth to stomach

Stomach acid acts on it

Moving through the digestive tract

Some ingredients are absorbed

It doesn’t slow digestion

Generally harmless for most people

Risks with intestinal blockages

Higher risk for certain groups

Larger amounts increase the risk

Much of it remains undigested

Gum can cause bloating

It can affect jaw muscles

Not ideal for teeth grinding

What do breakfast cereals contain?

An overall assessment

A new approach

How it works

Potential impact

Subtle nail changes

When it matters

Common explanations

Fruit is part of a balanced diet

It is possible to have too much of anything

Fruit contains many nutrients

Fruit helps you feel full

The sugar in fruit is natural

Fruit can help with weight control

Sweets and cakes contain free sugars

Fruit can be a healthier alternative

Juice and smoothies can be problematic

Juice should be limited

Liquid fruit makes it easier to consume too much sugar

Fruit does not cause diabetes

Fruit may protect against disease

Free sugars increase the risk of diabetes

Sugary drinks increase the risk

More research is still needed

How much fruit should you eat daily?

What it does

Beyond fitness

What to watch

A nightly pressure

Uneven ageing signs

Simple daily fixes

Better for the body

Good for the brain

What energy drinks contain

They have become extremely popular

A substitute for coffee

You may feel more alert

Your performance may improve temporarily

Your nervous system may be affected

You may experience anxiety and poor sleep

The amount of caffeine may be uncertain

You may become dependent on caffeine

Your sugar intake may increase significantly

You may experience energy crashes afterward

They are not safe for everyone

Better alternatives exist

Experts recommend moderation

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