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.
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
Photo: Shutterstock.com
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
Photo: Shutterstock.com
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
Photo: Shutterstock.com
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
Photo: Shutterstock.com
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
Photo: Shutterstock.com
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
Photo: Shutterstock,.com
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
Photo: Shutterstock.com
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
Photo: Shutterstock.com
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
Photo: Shutterstock.com
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
Photo: Shutterstock.com
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
Photo: Shutterstock.com
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
Photo: Shutterstock.com
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?
Photo: Shutterstock.com
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.
Stiff joints and persistent aches can quietly take over everyday life, making even simple movements feel like a challenge. Many people turn to exercise for relief, but sticking to a routine is not always easy.
Now, new research suggests that a simple supplement could play a role in easing some of that discomfort.
A new direction
A study from the University of Nottingham, published in the journal Nutrients, explored whether the dietary fiber inulin could reduce knee pain in people with osteoarthritis. According to EatingWell, 136 participants were divided into groups receiving either exercise, the supplement, both, or a placebo.
After six weeks, both the exercise and inulin groups showed reduced pain compared to those who received a placebo.
Notable findings
Researchers also observed that inulin appeared to influence how participants perceived pain.
Those in the exercise groups, meanwhile, showed improvements in mobility, including walking and bending movements.
The study also identified changes in certain blood sugar-related hormones, which may be linked to improved physical function. However, researchers noted that further investigation is needed to fully understand these effects.
Practical implications
According to EatingWell, making dietary changes may be easier for some people than maintaining a consistent exercise routine, making supplements like inulin a potentially accessible option.
Inulin occurs naturally in foods such as Jerusalem artichokes and chicory root and is also added to some processed foods.
At the same time, researchers highlight that broader dietary patterns, particularly anti-inflammatory diets, may also help manage osteoarthritis symptoms.
That uncomfortable burning in the chest after a meal is something many people know all too well.
For some it is occasional. For others, it becomes a regular disruption that affects sleep, work and everyday comfort.
Acid reflux and heartburn are common across the UK, affecting a large share of adults. While often manageable, experts warn that ongoing symptoms should not be ignored.
Growing health risks
Acid reflux happens when stomach acid moves back up into the oesophagus, leading to irritation and pain. Symptoms tend to flare up after eating, when lying down or bending forward.
According to SurreyLive, gut health specialist Dr Megan Rossi has highlighted that the condition can have different causes.
Some people may be genetically predisposed, while others develop symptoms due to physical issues such as a hiatus hernia or problems linked to gut-brain interaction.
Charity Guts UK reports that around one in 10 people with long-term reflux develops Barrett’s Oesophagus, a condition that in rare cases can increase the risk of cancer in the lower oesophagus.
Practical lifestyle steps
Dr Rossi recommends focusing on daily habits before relying entirely on medication. Key measures include finishing meals at least three hours before going to bed to reduce upward pressure from the stomach.
She also advises avoiding large portions, as heavy meals can increase abdominal pressure and worsen symptoms. Eating smaller meals spaced throughout the day may help.
Addressing constipation and bloating is another important step, as both can intensify reflux. The NHS lists heartburn and a sour taste in the mouth as main symptoms and advises seeking medical advice if problems persist.
Death is a universal human experience, but the process behind the body’s final moments is still surrounded by many questions.
Research is increasingly providing insight into what happens in the brain and body when life ends.
Here are some of the most important scientific explanations of the body’s final phase.
Death begins when the body’s functions stop
Photo: Shutterstock.com
The biological process starts when the body can no longer maintain its vital functions.
It often begins with organ failure, where several organs gradually stop working, for example during serious illness.
The heart stops and blood circulation ceases
Photo: Shutterstock.com
When the heart stops beating, blood circulation to the brain, lungs, and the rest of the body also stops.
This means the organs no longer receive the oxygen and nutrients they need.
The brain quickly begins to suffer damage without oxygen
Photo: Shutterstock.com
When the brain no longer receives oxygen, brain cells begin to die. After just a few minutes, the damage to the cells can become so extensive that it can no longer be repaired.
Clinical death is followed by biological death
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Clinical death is defined as the moment when the heart stops and breathing ceases.
If resuscitation is unsuccessful, biological death occurs, when the body’s decomposition begins.
The body begins a decomposition process
Photo: Shutterstock.com
After death, the body enters a natural process in which tissues gradually break down. This process is called decomposition and is part of the body’s biological cycle.
Cells begin to break down
Photo: Shutterstock.com
In the first stage, called autolysis, carbon dioxide accumulates in the cells. This creates an acidic environment where enzymes begin breaking down the cells from within.
Bacteria take over in the body
Photo: Shutterstock.com
After autolysis, bacteria that were previously kept under control by the immune system begin breaking down the body’s tissues.
During this process, gases are produced that can cause the body to swell and develop strong odors.
The body can change color during decomposition
Photo: Shutterstock.com
When bacteria break down hemoglobin in the blood, sulfur compounds are released.
This can give the skin a greenish color.
Muscles become stiff after death
Photo: Shutterstock.com
A few hours after death, rigor mortis occurs, causing the muscles to become stiff.
This happens because the body’s energy reserves, which normally keep the muscles relaxed, are depleted.
The stiffness disappears again after a few days
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Around two days after death, the muscles begin to soften again.
This happens because the tissues continue to break down.
The brain may still be active shortly after death
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Even after cardiac arrest, the brain can show signs of activity for a short time.
Research has shown that there can be a sharp increase in brain activity in the first seconds after cardiac arrest.
The body releases chemicals during the dying process
Photo: Shutterstock.com
During the dying process, the body releases several substances, including endorphins and serotonin.
These chemicals can reduce pain and create feelings of calm.
Psychedelic substances may play a role
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Researchers also believe that the substance DMT may be released in larger amounts during death.
The substance occurs naturally in the brain and can strongly affect the senses and consciousness.
Stress hormones may increase awareness
Photo: Shutterstock.com
During extreme stress, the body also releases adrenaline and noradrenaline.
These hormones increase alertness and may possibly contribute to experiences where people feel as if their entire life is passing before their eyes.
Near-death experiences are reported by many patients
Photo: Shutterstock.com
People who have been clinically dead and later resuscitated often report peaceful feelings, out-of-body experiences, or seeing bright light.
In a study published in Resuscitation, around 40 percent of resuscitated cardiac arrest patients reported some form of awareness during clinical death.
Researchers are still trying to understand consciousness at death
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Although science has identified several biological and chemical processes at the moment of death, many questions remain unanswered.
Experiences close to death vary greatly from person to person, and there is still no definitive explanation for the role of consciousness after cardiac arrest.
Many people ignore small, unusual changes in their bodies, assuming they will pass on their own. But sometimes, those signals are the body’s way of asking for attention before a bigger issue develops.
Health experts in the UK are now raising concern over a type of cancer that often goes unnoticed until it has already progressed.
A growing concern
According to LADbible, kidney cancer now represents around 4 percent of all new cancer diagnoses in the UK, with roughly 14,000 cases recorded each year.
Data from the NHS and guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) show cases have increased by about 25 percent over the past decade.
Men are more commonly affected, and the risk rises significantly with age. NICE also highlights smoking and obesity as key contributing factors.
The kidneys are essential for filtering waste from the blood, which makes early detection particularly important.
Often overlooked signs
As reported by LADbible, one of the main difficulties is that kidney cancer may not show clear symptoms in its early stages. The NHS explains that when signs do appear, they are often mistaken for less serious conditions.
Typical warning signs include:
Blood in urine
Persistent pain in the side or lower back
Unexplained weight loss
Ongoing fatigue
Fever or night sweats
Medical professionals advise that persistent symptoms should always be checked.
Changes in diagnosis
To improve early detection, NICE has introduced updated national guidelines focused on faster and more accurate diagnosis.
According to LADbible, these recommendations are supported by research from the University of Cambridge.
Experts, including Professor Grant Stewart, suggest that expanding the use of biopsies could help determine whether tumours are cancerous at an earlier stage.
This approach may reduce unnecessary treatments while ensuring patients receive appropriate care sooner.
It’s easy to overlook small changes in your appearance when life gets busy. A slight shift in color or a faint mark on your nails rarely feels important. Yet these subtle details can sometimes reflect what’s happening beneath the surface.
According to UNILAD, alongside medical insights fromCleveland Clinic, fingernails can act as early indicators of both minor and more serious health conditions.
Color tells a story
A yellow tint is often linked to fungal infections, especially if the nail becomes thicker or grows more slowly. In less common cases, it may also be associated with respiratory or lymphatic issues.
Dark vertical lines are another change worth attention. While they can appear harmless, health experts note they may sometimes indicate more serious conditions, including forms of skin cancer, and should be checked.
Small details matter
White spots are frequently misunderstood. They are not typically caused by deficiencies but are most often the result of minor damage to the nail.
Changes in shape can also reveal underlying issues. Spoon-shaped nails, known as koilonychia, are commonly associated with iron deficiency or anemia, particularly if fatigue is present.
When to react
Experts recommend focusing on patterns rather than isolated changes:
Persistent discoloration
New or changing streaks
Noticeable changes in shape
If these signs continue over time, it may be worth seeking medical advice.
According to data from USDA FoodData Central and insights published in Prevention, hummus is a nutrient-dense food that combines plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats. It is widely used across many dietary patterns and recognized for both its versatility and its health-supporting properties.
A nutrient-dense combination
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Hummus is made from a handful of ingredients that together provide a balanced nutritional profile. Chickpeas and tahini supply both macronutrients and essential micronutrients. This makes hummus a simple yet highly nourishing option.
A source of plant-based protein
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Chickpeas offer plant-based protein that can help support overall protein intake. This is particularly beneficial for those aiming to eat more plant-forward meals. It also contributes to greater dietary variety.
Tahini and olive oil are rich in unsaturated fats that support overall health. These fats play a role in maintaining normal heart function. As a result, hummus can be a better alternative to spreads high in saturated fat.
Provides essential vitamins and minerals
Foto: Shutterstock.com
Hummus contains nutrients such as folate, potassium, calcium, and phosphorus. These are important for processes like bone health and energy metabolism. Even small servings can contribute to daily nutrient needs.
Including hummus in meals or snacks can help replace less nutritious, energy-dense foods. This can improve overall diet quality. It also makes it easier to make more balanced food choices.
The combination of fiber and protein makes hummus a filling food. It can help stabilize hunger between meals. This may reduce the urge for unnecessary snacking.
Research suggests that eating hummus as a snack may affect later food choices. It has been linked to lower consumption of sugary foods later in the day. This indicates a potential indirect benefit on overall eating patterns.
Chickpeas provide fiber and beneficial fats while being naturally low in saturated fat. This supports cardiovascular health. Hummus can therefore fit well into a heart-conscious diet.
Studies indicate that ingredients like chickpeas and tahini can positively affect blood lipids. This includes cholesterol and triglyceride levels. These effects are relevant for long-term health.
Hummus contains plant compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and lignans. These substances help protect cells from oxidative stress. Antioxidants play an important role in overall health maintenance.
May support weight management
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Foods that promote satiety can be helpful for weight control. Hummus combines fiber and protein, both of which contribute to fullness. This may help regulate overall energy intake.
Versatile in cooking
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Hummus can be used in a variety of ways in the kitchen. It works as a dip, a spread, or an ingredient in different dishes. Its versatility makes it easy to incorporate into daily meals.
Not suitable for everyone
Photo: Shutterstock.com
People with allergies to sesame or legumes should avoid hummus. These ingredients are fundamental to traditional recipes. Awareness of food sensitivities is important.
May cause digestive discomfort in some individuals
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Chickpeas contain certain carbohydrates that can be difficult to digest. This may lead to bloating or discomfort in sensitive individuals. Those with digestive sensitivities may need to be cautious.
Watch out for store-bought varieties
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Some commercial hummus products may contain high levels of sodium or added sugar. Checking nutrition labels is important. This helps ensure better overall nutritional quality.
You’ve probably done it yourself, choosing the “sugar-free” option without hesitation. It feels like a small win for your health, especially when trying to cut calories or manage blood sugar. But new findings suggest that habit might not be as risk-free as many assume.
A growing concern
Erythritol, a common sweetener found in low-carb and diet products, has surged in popularity over the past decade. Its appeal lies in delivering sweetness without the usual downsides of sugar.
However, researchers from the University of Colorado Boulder have raised new concerns about its biological impact.
Their study, published in the Journal of Applied Physiology, indicates that erythritol may influence how blood vessels in the brain behave (University of Colorado Boulder, 2026).
Inside the findings
In controlled lab experiments, scientists exposed human brain vessel cells to levels comparable to a single sugar-free drink. The results showed measurable changes in how these cells functioned.
The researchers observed that the cells became less effective at relaxing, while also showing signs of increased oxidative stress.
At the same time, their ability to help dissolve blood clots appeared weakened (Journal of Applied Physiology, 2026).
Previous large-scale observational research in the U.S. and Europe has also linked higher erythritol levels in the bloodstream with increased rates of heart attack and stroke, adding weight to these findings.
What to take away
These results are based on laboratory data, not long-term human trials, so conclusions should be drawn carefully.
Still, the consistency across studies is prompting experts to call for closer scrutiny.
For now, checking labels and moderating intake of sugar substitutes may be a sensible step as more evidence emerges.
Granola is a popular choice for both breakfast and snacks, but how healthy is it really on a daily basis?
Here is an overview of how the body is affected, based on nutrition and research, according to EatingWell.
Heart health
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Granola contains oats, which are rich in beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber that can help lower cholesterol.
A study published in the European Journal of Nutrition shows that oats can reduce total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol, as well as positively influence BMI and waist circumference.
Contains blood pressure-lowering antioxidants
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Oats in granola contain antioxidants called avenanthramides, which are associated with lower blood pressure and improved heart function, according to a study published in Current Developments in Nutrition.
Can keep you full longer
Photo: Shutterstock.com
The soluble fiber in granola slows digestion and can reduce hunger between meals. This contributes to a more stable sense of satiety.
May influence appetite hormones
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Beta-glucan in oats can increase hormones such as cholecystokinin and peptide YY, which help regulate appetite, according to a study published in Current Nutrition Reports.
May promote healthy gut bacteria
Photo: Shutterstock
A study showed that high-fiber granola can increase the amount of gut bacteria that help regulate blood sugar, according to research published in Frontiers in Nutrition.
Can provide a nutritional boost
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Granola is often eaten with other nutrient-rich foods such as yogurt, milk, and fruit, which can improve overall diet quality and increase nutrient intake.
Contains fiber, protein, and healthy fats
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Granola typically consists of whole grains, nuts, and seeds, which contribute dietary fiber, plant-based protein, and healthy fats.
Can be high in calories
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Depending on the ingredients, granola can be high in calories, fat, and sugar, making portion size important.
May contain a lot of sugar
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Some varieties have a high content of added sugar, which can have negative long-term effects on the immune system, heart health, and the risk of diabetes.
Not suitable for everyone
Photo: Shutterstock.com
People with allergies to ingredients such as nuts should avoid granola or choose varieties without these ingredients.
Can be adapted for healthier choices
Photo: Shutterstock.com
By choosing granola with lower amounts of added sugar and less saturated fat, it can become a healthier everyday option.
Can be eaten in several ways
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Granola can be eaten as a snack, with yogurt or milk, or used in bars, making it a versatile food.
Sources: EatingWell, European Journal of Nutrition, Current Developments in Nutrition, Current Nutrition Reports, and Frontiers in Nutrition.
