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Early childhood signs linked to Tourette’s syndrome

31. March, 2026

Tourette’s syndrome usually begins in childhood and the first symptoms can be subtle. A doctor explains what parents should look out for and addresses common misconceptions about the condition.

What is tourette’s syndrome

Tourette’s syndrome is a neurological developmental condition that typically begins in childhood. It is characterised by involuntary movements and sounds known as tics, which the person cannot control.

When symptoms usually begin

According to Dr Suzanne Wylie, Tourette’s most often appears between the ages of five and seven. The NHS states that symptoms generally start around age six and may become more noticeable around age ten.

Early signs can be subtle

In the beginning, symptoms are often mild and may go unnoticed. They can gradually develop and become more apparent over time.

Early motor tics

The first signs are often motor tics. These can include repeated eye blinking, facial grimacing or shoulder shrugging.

Development of vocal tics

Over time, vocal tics may develop. They often begin as simple throat clearing or sniffing.

Tics are involuntary

Tics are not intentional actions. The individual has no control over them, and they do not reflect personal beliefs or intentions.

Symptoms may increase with stress

Tics can become more noticeable when a child feels stressed or excited. Emotional situations may therefore make the symptoms more frequent.

Common misconceptions

Many people believe Tourette’s always involves dramatic or socially inappropriate behaviour. However, most individuals with the condition experience milder tics.

Swearing is rare

Although Tourette’s is often associated with swearing, doctors say this is rare compared to other tics such as blinking, whistling, sniffing or repeating sounds, words or phrases.

Not a psychiatric disorder

There is a misconception that Tourette’s is a psychiatric problem. Dr Wylie emphasises that it is a neurodevelopmental condition.

Can occur alongside other conditions

Tourette’s can be linked with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or obsessive compulsive behaviours. However, the tics themselves are not a sign of mental illness.

Genetic component

There is a strong genetic component to Tourette’s. Not everyone who carries a genetic predisposition will develop the condition.

Treatment options

Tourette’s cannot be cured, but treatment can help manage symptoms. Behavioural therapy can support children in handling their tics, and medication may be considered if therapy is not effective.

Sources: Mirror

Non-drug therapies show promise for osteoarthritis

Mie Hermansen

31. March, 2026

Non-drug therapies show promise for osteoarthritis

Many people only notice their knees when something starts to hurt. Everyday movements become slower, and small tasks begin to demand more effort than before.

For years, medication has been the go-to solution. But new findings suggest relief may lie elsewhere.

A different approach

A large analysis reported by Science Daily, based on research published in PLOS One, indicates that non-drug treatments can play a major role in managing knee osteoarthritis.

The condition, common among older adults, often leads to stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility. While medication is widely used, it may bring side effects that make long-term use less appealing.

The research team, led by Xiao Chen, reviewed 139 clinical trials involving nearly 10,000 participants to compare different non-pharmaceutical treatments.

What stands out

Some methods consistently delivered better results than others:

Knee braces that support joint stability
Water-based exercise that reduces strain
Regular physical activity adapted to the patient

These approaches improved both pain levels and overall function.

More advanced treatments showed mixed results, while ultrasound ranked among the least effective options in the analysis.

Changing priorities

Despite some variations across the studies, the overall findings point in the same direction. Simple, accessible solutions can compete with more complex treatments.

This may influence how doctors approach care in the future, with greater focus on low-risk and cost-effective methods.

For patients, the message is clear: managing knee pain might not require stronger medication, but rather smarter, consistent habits.

Study finds 31% reduction in first heart attacks with cholesterol drug

Mie Hermansen

31. March, 2026

Study finds 31% reduction in first heart attacks with cholesterol drug

Heart disease rarely announces itself. For many, the first warning comes too late, even when they believed they were managing their health.

New research now suggests that prevention might begin earlier than previously assumed, potentially shifting how doctors approach cardiovascular risk.

Earlier action

A study led by researchers at Mass General Brigham indicates that a cholesterol-lowering drug, typically used after heart disease is diagnosed, may also benefit high-risk individuals before any visible artery damage appears.

The findings, reported by Science Daily and published in JAMA, were presented at the American College of Cardiology’s annual meeting.

Measurable impact

The trial followed more than 3,600 patients with diabetes considered at high risk but without confirmed atherosclerosis. Participants received either evolocumab or a placebo alongside standard treatments.

Over nearly five years, those given evolocumab experienced a 31% lower risk of a first major cardiovascular event, including heart attack or stroke.

At the same time, LDL cholesterol levels dropped significantly, with reductions of about half compared to the control group.

31% lower risk of first events
Around 50% lower LDL levels
Similar safety outcomes in both groups

What it means

Heart disease remains the leading global cause of death, and lowering LDL cholesterol is a central prevention strategy.

The results suggest that more aggressive treatment earlier in the disease process could help reduce risk before damage occurs.

Researchers caution that further studies are needed to confirm whether the findings apply to broader populations.

New Covid variant spreads across the US

Mie Hermansen

31. March, 2026

It’s been a while since Covid felt like something that could disrupt everyday life. Most people have moved on, stopped thinking about variants, and settled back into normal routines.

But behind the scenes, researchers are still tracking how the virus changes. Now, a new version is starting to get attention.

A new spread

A Covid variant called BA.3.2 has started showing up in several countries, including the US. The CDC reports that it was first spotted in South Africa back in 2024 during routine testing.

Since then, it has quietly spread to more than 20 countries. In the US, it hasn’t just been found in patients, but also in wastewater samples, which often reveal infections before they show up in large numbers.

Why it matters

What makes this variant interesting is how different it is from earlier ones. It’s still related to Omicron, but experts say it has changed enough that the body might not recognize it as quickly.

Dr. Kyle Enfield explained in The Independent that vaccines still help prevent serious illness, but they may not react as fast against this version. That delay could matter, especially for people already dealing with health issues.

What helps

The advice is not new, but it still works:

Wash your hands regularly
Stay home if you feel sick
Be mindful in crowded indoor spaces

These simple habits can still lower the risk of spreading infection. For people who are more vulnerable, doctors recommend checking in with a healthcare professional for extra guidance.

Covid may not feel like a daily concern anymore, but variants like this show it hasn’t disappeared. It’s just evolving in the background.

NHS outlines when tiredness may need medical attention

Mie Hermansen

31. March, 2026

NHS outlines when tiredness may need medical attention

Some days, tiredness feels like part of modern life. Late nights, early alarms and endless to-do lists can drain anyone. But there comes a point where fatigue stops feeling normal and starts raising questions.

As seasonal clock changes disrupt sleep patterns, many people notice dips in energy. Yet ongoing exhaustion may point to something more serious.

When tiredness isn’t normal

A report by the Daily Mirror, based on guidance from the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), highlights that persistent fatigue without a clear explanation should not be ignored.

While occasional tiredness is common, experts say long-lasting exhaustion can be linked to deeper issues. Lifestyle habits such as poor sleep, lack of exercise and emotional stress are often contributing factors.

Hormonal changes during life stages like pregnancy or menopause may also play a role. In other cases, infections or medical treatments can temporarily reduce energy levels.

Possible underlying causes

According to the NHS, several health conditions may be behind ongoing fatigue. Recognising patterns in your symptoms can help doctors identify the cause.

Common warning signs include:

Disrupted sleep or loud snoring
Breathlessness or heart palpitations
Increased thirst and frequent urination
Anxiety, restlessness or muscle weakness

These symptoms may be linked to conditions such as sleep apnoea, iron deficiency anaemia, diabetes or an overactive thyroid.

More severe, long-term fatigue lasting months could also be associated with chronic fatigue syndrome.

When to seek help

The NHS advises against self-diagnosis and recommends seeking medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen over time.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. This may involve lifestyle changes, sleep support, therapy or further medical testing such as blood analysis.

Simple adjustments like reducing caffeine, avoiding screens before bed and improving sleep routines can also make a difference.

This is what chickpeas do to your body eaten regularly

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

31. March, 2026

This is what chickpeas do to your body eaten regularly

Chickpeas have become popular in many cuisines, and they also offer a range of nutritional benefits.

Here is what happens in the body when you eat them regularly, according to EatingWell.

Cholesterol

Chickpeas contain soluble fiber, which can reduce both LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol levels in the body, an important factor for heart health, according to a study published in Frontiers in Nutrition.

Heart health

Since high LDL cholesterol is a risk factor for heart disease, consuming chickpeas may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular conditions.

Free from saturated fat and cholesterol

Chickpeas contain neither saturated fat nor dietary cholesterol, making them a good choice for maintaining a healthy circulatory system.

Healthy digestion

The fiber in chickpeas helps regulate bowel movements and supports healthy digestion.

The gut microbiome

When fiber is fermented in the gut, short-chain fatty acids are produced, contributing to a healthy and diverse gut microbiome.

Reduces inflammation

The short-chain fatty acids formed in the gut may help reduce inflammation in the body and thereby lower the risk of chronic diseases, according to a study published in Foods.

Weight management

The combination of protein and fiber in chickpeas increases satiety and may help prevent overeating.

Provides folate

Chickpeas contain folate, which is important for cell function, protein metabolism, and the prevention of birth defects.

Supports blood vessels

Folate helps break down homocysteine in the body, which can otherwise damage blood vessels and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, according to a study published in the Journal of Cardiovascular Development and Disease.

Boosts energy levels

Chickpeas contain iron, which transports oxygen to the brain and muscles and can therefore help reduce fatigue.

Important nutrients

They provide nutrients such as protein, dietary fiber, potassium, iron, and folate, all of which play a role in the body’s functions.

They can be used in many dishes

Chickpeas can be used in everything from hummus and salads to hot dishes and snacks, making them easy to include in the diet.

Sources: EatingWell, Frontiers in Nutrition, Foods, and Journal of Cardiovascular Development and Disease.

Researchers identify cancer mechanism behind anti-aging compound

Mie Hermansen

31. March, 2026

Researchers identify cancer mechanism behind anti-aging compound

Many people are interested in ways to stay healthy for longer. Certain natural substances have gained attention because they appear to support the body’s own repair systems and slow down some effects of aging.

But new research suggests that one of these promising compounds may not always work in our favor.

Polyamines are natural molecules found in every cell of the body. They help cells grow and function properly.

In recent years, scientists have studied them closely because they can trigger a “clean-up” process inside cells that removes damaged parts. This process is linked to healthy aging.

At the same time, doctors have long known that cancer cells often contain unusually high levels of polyamines. That raised an important question: how can something linked to healthy aging also be connected to aggressive tumors?

What the researchers found

A research team led by Associate Professor Kyohei Higashi at Tokyo University of Science investigated this puzzle. Their study was published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry.

Working with human cancer cells in the lab, the scientists lowered polyamine levels and then added them back. They closely tracked how the cells responded.

They found that in cancer cells, polyamines helped switch on a fast energy system that tumors use to grow quickly.

Instead of supporting normal cell maintenance, the molecules appeared to strengthen the cancer cells’ ability to multiply.

Why it matters

The team also discovered that polyamines affect two similar proteins in different ways. In healthy cells, one protein supports normal energy production and repair. In cancer cells, a related protein is activated instead, encouraging growth.

The findings suggest that the same molecule can be helpful in healthy tissue but harmful in cancerous tissue.

Researchers say this could eventually help scientists design treatments that block the cancer-promoting effects without interfering with potential anti-aging benefits.

Sources: Science Daily and JBC

UK meat recall after listeria found, with rare meningitis risk

Mie Hermansen

31. March, 2026

UK meat recall after listeria found, with rare meningitis risk

Many people grab packaged meat without a second thought during their weekly shop. It’s quick, convenient, and feels safe sitting on supermarket shelves.

But occasionally, everyday products can carry hidden risks that only come to light after they’ve already reached homes.

Now, a fresh warning in the UK is raising concerns about a commonly sold deli item.

A quiet recall

A poultry product sold across major UK supermarkets has been removed after safety concerns emerged.

According to the Food Standards Agency (FSA), batches of turkey pastrami produced by Gilbert’s may contain harmful bacteria.

The affected packs were distributed through well-known retailers including Tesco, Asda and Morrisons. Authorities moved quickly to issue a recall once contamination was identified.

Consumers are being urged to check packaging carefully, as only specific batches are impacted. The recall applies to 142g packs with use-by dates in early April 2026.

Health risks explained

The concern centres around listeria, a type of bacteria that can lead to foodborne illness. While many cases are mild, the infection can become serious in certain situations.

Typical symptoms include:

Fever and chills
Muscle aches
Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhoea

In more severe cases, listeria can trigger complications affecting the nervous system, including forms of meningitis.

Health agencies warn that some groups face higher risks, particularly older adults, pregnant women, newborns, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

What shoppers should do

Food safety officials advise anyone who has purchased the affected product not to consume it. Instead, it should be returned to the store for a refund.

Retailers are displaying notices in-store and online to inform customers about the issue.

These alerts are part of a broader system used in the UK to quickly remove unsafe food from circulation.

The FSA regularly issues recall notices to protect public health and ensure consumers are aware of potential risks linked to contaminated products.

Source: Mirror

How celery affects your health – from blood pressure to digestion

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

31. March, 2026

How celery affects your health – from blood pressure to digestion

Celery is not just water and crunch. According to the media outlet EatingWell, it contains compounds such as apigenin, which researchers associate with the body’s handling of inflammation.

At the same time, celery is very low in calories and consists almost entirely of water. It provides fiber and some vitamins, but it is not a significant source of energy.

Possible health effects

EatingWell reports that research published in Frontiers in Nutrition points to a modest effect on blood pressure, particularly the diastolic level. Even small changes can matter for heart health.

In addition, the fiber may support digestion and help keep the gut functioning properly. The high water content may also contribute to the body’s fluid balance.

Some studies published in journals such as Biomedicines further suggest that compounds in celery may reduce inflammation, although the results are not conclusive.

Depends on lifestyle

Although celery has several beneficial properties, EatingWell emphasizes that it is not a miracle food. Its effects depend on overall diet and lifestyle.

There are also certain considerations to keep in mind.

People with allergies should avoid celery, and individuals taking blood-thinning medication should monitor their intake due to its vitamin K content.

Overall, the review shows that celery can support digestion and cardiovascular health, among other things, but only as part of a varied diet.

Sources: EatingWell, Frontiers in Nutrition, and Biomedicines.

Seven days of cold showers – this is how it affected the body

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

31. March, 2026

Seven days of cold showers – this is how it affected the body

Cold showers have become popular on social media as a simple trick for gaining more energy and improving mood.

A writer from Verywell Mind therefore decided to test the method for a week to see whether it actually made a difference in everyday life.

Why cold showers

Cold showers are typically described as water with a temperature below about 15 degrees Celsius.

If you gasp when the water hits your body, the temperature is probably low enough.

The method has become popular among people trying to optimize their well-being.

Among other things, the Wim Hof Method, which combines cold exposure and breathing techniques, has contributed to the growing interest.

What research says

Several studies suggest that exposure to cold can positively affect mood.

A 2008 study published in Medical Hypotheses pointed to cold showers as a possible treatment for depression.

According to psychiatrist Pamela Walters from Eulas Clinics, both research and patient experiences suggest that cold water can have measurable effects on mood, mental clarity, and general well-being.

First day

The experiment began with a normal warm shower that ended with 30 seconds of cold water.

The experience was intense. Breathing changed, and the body reacted strongly to the cold. Afterwards, however, the body felt more awake and alert.

Day two and three

On day two, expectations were not exactly positive, but the experiment continued with the same short period of cold water.

After the shower, there was a noticeable feeling of mental clarity. Pamela Walters specifically recommends starting with short periods of cold water and gradually increasing the duration.

A forgotten routine

On day three, the cold water was forgotten during the shower. The mistake was only discovered after putting on night clothes.

This meant an extra trip back under the shower, which made the experience even more unpleasant. The lesson was to make it a fixed part of the routine.

A mental shift

Day four began with a low mood and a lack of motivation.

However, when the cold water hit, the focus quickly shifted to the body’s reaction to the cold.

According to Harvard psychiatrist Ashwini Nadkarni, such experiences can function as a form of mental grounding.

Better focus

Although sleep did not change during the experiment, concentration felt better throughout the day.

According to experts, cold showers can activate the body’s stress response, which increases alertness and mental clarity.

The last days

Around day six, the experience began to feel more positive. The cold water was no longer met with the same resistance.

A study has also shown that cold exposure combined with breathing techniques can reduce perceived stress.

A difficult ending

On the final day, the weather was significantly colder, which made it difficult to turn down the warm water.

Although the cold was not quite as intense, the shower was completed and the feeling of increased alertness returned.

Possible benefits

According to experts, cold showers can increase the release of endorphins, which can temporarily improve mood.

Cold exposure can also increase levels of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine, which plays a role in focus and attention.

Not a miracle cure

Researchers emphasize that larger studies are still needed before the effects on mental health can be firmly established.

People with heart problems or certain mental health conditions should also be cautious with cold exposure.

The experience after a week

The experiment showed that cold showers could provide more energy and sharper focus.

At the same time, it worked as a mental push on days with a low mood, although the effect was not necessarily long-lasting.

Will it continue?

Cold showers will probably not become a fixed winter routine for the writer.

However, the experience showed that they can be a useful tool for getting a mental boost or extra energy during the day.

Sources: Verywell Mind.

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What is tourette’s syndrome

When symptoms usually begin

Early signs can be subtle

Early motor tics

Development of vocal tics

Tics are involuntary

Symptoms may increase with stress

Common misconceptions

Swearing is rare

Not a psychiatric disorder

Can occur alongside other conditions

Genetic component

Treatment options

A different approach

What stands out

Changing priorities

Earlier action

Measurable impact

What it means

A new spread

Why it matters

What helps

When tiredness isn’t normal

Possible underlying causes

When to seek help

Cholesterol

Heart health

Free from saturated fat and cholesterol

Healthy digestion

The gut microbiome

Reduces inflammation

Weight management

Provides folate

Supports blood vessels

Boosts energy levels

Important nutrients

They can be used in many dishes

What the researchers found

Why it matters

A quiet recall

Health risks explained

What shoppers should do

Possible health effects

Depends on lifestyle

Why cold showers

What research says

First day

Day two and three

A forgotten routine

A mental shift

Better focus

The last days

A difficult ending

Possible benefits

Not a miracle cure

The experience after a week

Will it continue?

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