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These foods may increase your risk of dehydration

27. March, 2026

Most people associate hydration with what we drink, but our diet also plays a significant role in the body’s fluid balance.

Some foods can actually increase fluid loss and make you feel thirstier throughout the day, writes Real Simple.

Why fluids are important

Water makes up about 60 percent of the body and is essential for functions such as temperature regulation, digestion, and the transport of nutrients.

It also helps the brain communicate and protects the body’s tissues.

Signs of dehydration

Thirst is often the first sign, but dehydration can also lead to symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, dizziness, dark urine, and a weakened immune system.

In severe cases, it can become dangerous.

Why certain foods dehydrate you

Foods high in sodium, protein, and added sugar can draw fluid out of the body’s cells or increase fluid loss through urine.

Processed foods

Ultra-processed products such as chips, ready meals, and sweets often contain large amounts of salt and sugar, which together can negatively affect the body’s fluid balance.

Cold cuts and processed meat

Cold cuts such as ham and bacon typically contain high levels of sodium and sometimes added sugar, which can contribute to dehydration.

Pickles

Pickled foods such as pickles are often very salty, making them a source of increased fluid loss.

Soy sauce

Soy sauce is known for its high sodium content and can therefore have a dehydrating effect, even in small amounts.

Sweets and desserts

Cakes, ice cream, and cookies with added sugar can cause the body to excrete more fluid, and some sugar substitutes may even lead to diarrhea.

Asparagus in large amounts

Asparagus contains the compound asparagine, which has a diuretic effect, but this is primarily an issue when consumed in very large amounts.

Artichokes

Artichokes are also rich in asparagine and may have a mild diuretic effect, although they rarely impact fluid balance significantly.

Beets

Beets contain a high amount of potassium, which can increase fluid excretion and make you urinate more frequently.

Pizza

Pizza contains sodium in both the dough, cheese, and toppings, which can contribute to dehydration despite some fluid content from the tomato sauce.

Salted nuts

Although nuts are healthy, salted varieties can contain significant amounts of sodium, especially if more than a small portion is consumed.

High-protein foods in large amounts

A very high protein intake requires extra fluid to be broken down and can put strain on the kidneys, increasing fluid loss.

Foods high in added sugar

When there is a high level of sugar in the blood, the body draws water out of the cells and excretes it through urine, which can lead to dehydration.

How to maintain fluid balance

You do not need to avoid these foods entirely, but it is important to combine them with fluids and water-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables, as well as prioritizing fluid intake throughout the day.

Sources: Real Simple.

Not all types of alcohol are equally harmful, new research suggests

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

27. March, 2026

Not all types of alcohol are equally harmful, new research suggests

A new large-scale study from the United Kingdom involving around 341,000 participants, not yet published but described by HealthDay, has examined the relationship between alcohol and health.

Participants were followed for more than 13 years, during which their drinking habits and health were recorded.

The study shows that different types of alcohol are often associated with different lifestyles.

People who drink beer, cider, or spirits more often have less healthy habits, such as a poor diet, less exercise, and smoking.

Alcohol does not only affect the body directly but is also linked to other factors that influence health.

Risk of disease

The results show that high alcohol consumption increases the risk of dying earlier.

The risk of premature death was 24 percent higher among people with high consumption compared with those who drank little or not at all.

At the same time, the risk of dying from cancer was 36 percent higher, and the risk of heart disease was 14 percent higher.

Even at low consumption of beer, cider, and spirits, researchers observed an increased risk of heart disease. This suggests that even small amounts may have an impact.

Differences between types of alcohol

The study indicates that the type of alcohol also plays a role. Wine was the only beverage that, in some cases, was associated with a lower risk of heart disease.

People who drank a moderate amount of wine had a lower risk of death from heart disease, which may be due both to compounds found in wine and to a generally healthier lifestyle.

The main conclusion is therefore that both the amount and the type of alcohol matter for health.

Sources: HealthDay.

War linked to rising mental health issues among ukrainian children

Mie Hermansen

27. March, 2026

War linked to rising mental health issues among ukrainian children

It often starts subtly. A change in mood, trouble sleeping, or a sense that something isn’t quite right.

For children, these signals can be difficult to explain, especially when their world has been shaped by uncertainty for years.

In Ukraine, growing up has meant adapting to a reality marked by conflict. Now, new research is shedding light on how deeply that experience is affecting young minds.

A growing burden

A recent review of 37 studies, published in BMJ Global Health and reported by MedicalXpress, highlights a sharp rise in mental health challenges among Ukrainian children and teenagers.

Researchers from institutions including the University of Turku examined data collected between 2020 and 2024. Their findings show consistent patterns of psychological distress among those aged 0 to 19.

Conditions such as anxiety, depression and trauma-related disorders are increasingly common, particularly among those exposed to prolonged conflict.

Unequal impact

The data suggests that teenagers who have lived through both the early stages of conflict in 2014 and the full-scale invasion in 2022 are among the most affected.

More than 10% of this group have attempted suicide, significantly higher than peers without similar exposure.

Differences also emerge across groups:

Girls are more likely to experience suicidal thoughts and self-harm
Boys more often display behavioural difficulties

Children facing additional hardships, including displacement, loss or exposure to violence, show higher levels of severe symptoms.

Environment matters

Where and how children live plays a critical role in their mental well-being. Those relocated abroad appear to face greater psychological strain compared to internally displaced children who remain within familiar cultural settings.

Family dynamics also influence outcomes. Supportive home environments can act as a protective factor, while instability increases vulnerability.

Although some of the studies reviewed have limitations due to the challenges of conducting research during war, the overall picture is clear: the long-term mental health impact on Ukraine’s younger generation is significant.

Source: Pravda

How white bread can affect your body if you eat it every day

Mie Hermansen

26. March, 2026

How white bread can affect your body if you eat it every day

White bread is a staple in many daily meals, but its effects on the body depend on several factors. Nutrition experts emphasize that overall diet and individual needs matter most. Here are the key insights about eating it every day, according to Parade

White bread affects people differently

“Bread Baguette” by Krzysztof%20Puszczy%u0144ski/ CC0 1.0

How healthy white bread is depends on a person’s health, activity level, and individual goals.

Can be useful before exercise

“Bread Food” by Daria Nepriakhina/ CC0 1.0

For active individuals, white bread can be beneficial because it is easy to digest before a workout.

Not ideal for diabetes

“Sandwich Bread” by Brooke Cagle/ CC0 1.0

People with diabetes should limit intake, as white bread can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar.

May suit certain gut conditions

“Bread Baguette” by Daria Nepriakhina/ CC0 1.0

For conditions like Crohn’s disease and colitis, a low-fiber diet can make white bread a suitable option.

Taste preferences matter

Many people choose white bread because they prefer its taste, especially when paired with healthy ingredients like olive oil.

No need to eliminate it completely

There is no need to completely avoid white bread unless required for medical reasons.

Provides quick energy

“Free toasted white bread image“/ CC0 1.0

White bread is quickly broken down in the body, leading to a fast energy boost.

Followed by an energy crash

That quick boost can be followed by a drop in energy, which may lead to fatigue.

Impacts blood sugar levels

“Free toasted sandwich fries image“/ CC0 1.0

Its low fiber content can lead to more noticeable blood sugar fluctuations throughout the day.

Less filling than whole grains

White bread does not promote satiety as well as whole grain options, which can lead to quicker hunger.

May affect digestion

“Toaster Toast” by %u0141ukasz%20Popardowski/ CC0 1.0

A low intake of fiber, including from white bread, can result in slower digestion and constipation.

Long-term effects depend on overall diet

The long-term impact depends on the overall diet, not just white bread alone.

Retirement means more time, more opportunities – and an identity crisis, research shows

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

26. March, 2026

Retirement means more time, more opportunities – and an identity crisis, research shows

Many people look forward to retirement as a break from work and fixed routines. Daily life becomes more flexible, and there is more time for family and personal interests, writes the media outlet Be.

However, research shows that the transition is not only about practical changes.

It also affects how people experience their everyday lives and their role in society.

For many years, working life has provided structure and clear frameworks. When it ends, this structure disappears, and adjusting to that takes time.

Less recognition

In the workplace, people regularly receive feedback from others. This may come through collaboration, tasks, or results that are acknowledged.

According to Ouest-France, studies show that the challenge of retirement is not necessarily due to a lack of activities.

Rather, it is more about no longer having a clear role or tangible results.

At the same time, many daily interactions disappear.

Phone calls and professional relationships become fewer, which can change the sense of being part of a community.

A new identity

Over a long working life, one’s job often becomes an important part of one’s identity. It is a way of understanding oneself and one’s place in society.

When work ends, many need to find new ways to define themselves.

Research on aging indicates that well-being in retirement depends on whether one can build a new identity through social or personal activities.

The greatest challenge of retirement is therefore not free time, but the loss of a fixed role and the recognition that comes with it.

Sources: Be, and Ouest-France.

How to effectively remove tonsil stones yourself

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

26. March, 2026

How to effectively remove tonsil stones yourself

Many videos about the body are shared online, and some topics quickly attract widespread attention.

According to Newsner, this is especially true for content that shows physical phenomena that can seem both fascinating and unpleasant.

One such phenomenon has recently gained attention through videos. For many, it is the first time they encounter it, sparking curiosity and raising questions.

Symptoms and occurrence

Tonsil stones in the throat are, according to the Cleveland Clinic, small, hard lumps that form in the tonsils. They consist, among other things, of food debris, bacteria, and minerals.

The condition is not dangerous and often causes no symptoms. When discomfort occurs, it may include bad breath, coughing, or throat irritation.

Many people are surprised by how common it actually is, even though it is rarely discussed.

Simple solutions

Treatment usually does not require medical assistance. According to Newsner, the stones can often be removed using simple methods at home.

This may include gargling with salt water or gently removing them with a soft tool. In some cases, they may also loosen on their own through coughing.

Sources: Newsner, and Mayo Clinic.

Do you eat fermented foods? It could affect how much plastic your body absorbs

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

26. March, 2026

Do you eat fermented foods? It could affect how much plastic your body absorbs

Nanoplastics are now found in food, drinking water, and even in the human body. According to experts, these tiny plastic particles can affect the gut and cause inflammation.

In addition, plastics can carry chemical substances that can disrupt the body’s hormones.

For this reason, nanoplastics are considered a growing health concern, according to Real Simple.

Bacteria in focus

A new study published in Bioresource Technology examined bacteria from fermented foods such as kimchi. Two types of bacteria were tested in laboratories and in mice.

The researchers found that one particular bacterium could bind nanoplastics together. This made it easier for the body to eliminate the particles.

In mice, the amount of nanoplastics in feces doubled.

At the same time, experts point out that the experiments used larger amounts of bacteria than what is typically consumed through the diet.

Still uncertain

The bacterial content in fermented foods can vary significantly. It is also unclear whether the bacteria survive the journey through the body in sufficient quantities.

Therefore, it remains uncertain whether the same effect applies to humans.

Other foods such as yogurt and sauerkraut may have similar properties, but further research is needed.

Sources: Real Simple and Bioresource Technology.

Your blood type may determine your risk of heart attack and blood clots

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

26. March, 2026

Your blood type may determine your risk of heart attack and blood clots

Most people associate health with diet and exercise, but the body is also influenced by genetics.

According to Northwestern Medicine, inherited factors can affect the risk of conditions such as blood clots and heart problems.

Blood type is one of these factors. People have blood types A, B, AB, or O, and they can be either positive or negative depending on a protein in the blood.

Blood type is usually used in connection with blood transfusions, but research suggests it may also influence overall health, Newsner writes.

Research and risks

Studies cited by Tyla show that certain blood types are more prone to forming blood clots. This is because the blood in these individuals clots more easily.

According to analyses reported by the New York Post, there are also differences in stroke risk between blood types.

In addition, research points to a possible link with certain types of cancer, including colorectal cancer.

People with blood type O generally have a lower risk of both blood clots and heart attacks than those with other blood types.

This suggests that blood type may play a role in several different diseases.

Lifestyle still matters

Although there are differences between blood types, lifestyle remains crucial.

According to the CDC, the risk of disease can be reduced by eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption.

Genetics is only one part of the explanation. Therefore, it is important to view health as a whole.

Sources: Newsner, Northwestern Medicine, Tyla, New York Post, and CDC.

This is what happens to your body if you eat too much food

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

26. March, 2026

This is what happens to your body if you eat too much food

Eating more than the body needs affects both digestion and energy levels.

The effects can be felt quickly, but they may also have long-term consequences if it happens frequently, writes EatingWell.

The stomach expands

When you eat, the stomach expands to accommodate the food.

If you eat too much, it can stretch beyond its normal capacity, causing an uncomfortable feeling of being overly full.

Digestive discomfort

A very large amount of food can create pressure and discomfort as it moves from the stomach into the small intestine.

Risk of reflux

Large meals can cause stomach acid to move up into the esophagus. This may lead to a burning sensation and a sour taste in the mouth.

Poor sleep

Eating close to bedtime can worsen reflux and make it harder to sleep.

Feeling of fatigue

When the body has to digest large amounts of food, it uses extra energy. This can result in a feeling of heaviness and sleepiness.

Blood sugar rises

A large meal, especially one high in carbohydrates, can cause a significant rise in blood sugar levels.

Insulin is activated

When blood sugar rises, the body releases insulin, which helps transport sugar into the cells.

Excess energy is stored as fat

If the body cannot store more energy in the liver and muscles, the remainder is converted and stored as fat.

Risk of leptin resistance

With repeated overeating, the body can become less sensitive to the hormone leptin, which normally signals fullness to the brain, according to a study published in Frontiers in Endocrinology.

Increased appetite

When the leptin signal does not function properly, it can lead to continued feelings of hunger and increased food intake.

Weight gain over time

If you regularly consume more calories than you burn, it will eventually lead to weight gain.

Larger stomach capacity

Frequent overeating can cause the stomach to adapt to larger amounts of food, meaning you need to eat more to feel full.

Risk of insulin resistance

Regular overeating can make the body’s cells less sensitive to insulin, keeping blood sugar levels elevated.

Increased risk of disease

Long-term effects on blood sugar and insulin can increase the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Small changes can help

Eating more slowly, paying attention to fullness, and spreading meals evenly throughout the day can reduce the tendency to overeat.

Managing after overeating

Light activity such as a walk, staying upright, and avoiding carbonated drinks can help relieve discomfort after a large meal.

Sources: EatingWell and Frontiers in Endocrinology.

Researchers test new drug to prevent weight gain after Wegovy

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

26. March, 2026

Researchers test new drug to prevent weight gain after Wegovy

A new drug is currently being tested in a U.S. trial led in part by George Mason University, SciTechDaily reports.

The study includes individuals who previously lost weight using weight-loss medication but have since discontinued treatment.

Researchers are examining how much weight participants regain and comparing it with existing knowledge about weight gain after discontinuation.

Participants are aware that they are receiving the medication, and there is no control group.

Controls appetite

The new drug, ARD-201, works differently from well-known injections. Instead of producing significant weight loss, it is intended to help regulate appetite.

According to George Mason University, the compound activates certain receptors in the body that normally respond to bitter taste.

Even though no bitter taste is perceived, the body sends signals that may lead to reduced food intake.

Previous trials with a similar compound have shown that this mechanism can affect appetite in people with a rare condition characterized by constant hunger.

The challenge after weight loss

Medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy have made it easier for many people to lose weight.

However, many experience weight regain after stopping treatment, according to George Mason University.

The new trial aims to address this specific issue. The goal is not to induce further weight loss, but to help people maintain a stable weight.

Only when the trial results are available will it be possible to determine whether the drug can help sustain weight loss over the long term.

Sources: SciTechDaily.

1...747576...370 Page 75 of 370

Why fluids are important

Signs of dehydration

Why certain foods dehydrate you

Processed foods

Cold cuts and processed meat

Pickles

Soy sauce

Sweets and desserts

Asparagus in large amounts

Artichokes

Beets

Pizza

Salted nuts

High-protein foods in large amounts

Foods high in added sugar

How to maintain fluid balance

Risk of disease

Differences between types of alcohol

A growing burden

Unequal impact

Environment matters

White bread affects people differently

Can be useful before exercise

Not ideal for diabetes

May suit certain gut conditions

Taste preferences matter

No need to eliminate it completely

Provides quick energy

Followed by an energy crash

Impacts blood sugar levels

Less filling than whole grains

May affect digestion

Long-term effects depend on overall diet

Less recognition

A new identity

Symptoms and occurrence

Simple solutions

Bacteria in focus

Still uncertain

Research and risks

Lifestyle still matters

The stomach expands

Digestive discomfort

Risk of reflux

Poor sleep

Feeling of fatigue

Blood sugar rises

Insulin is activated

Excess energy is stored as fat

Risk of leptin resistance

Increased appetite

Weight gain over time

Larger stomach capacity

Risk of insulin resistance

Increased risk of disease

Small changes can help

Managing after overeating

Controls appetite

The challenge after weight loss

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