Long COVID continues to affect a large number of individuals.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around six out of every 100 infected people develop Long COVID.
Symptoms may include fatigue, breathing difficulties, problems with concentration, and mental health challenges. In some cases, they last for several months or longer.
There is no specific treatment, and efforts therefore focus on relieving individual symptoms.
The risk is highest among older people, those who have experienced severe illness, and individuals with other health conditions.
Vitamin D
A study published in The Journal of Nutrition has examined whether vitamin D may have an effect in connection with COVID-19. More than 1,700 people participated in the trial.
Participants received either vitamin D or a placebo for four weeks after being infected. The results showed that vitamin D did not affect how ill the participants became.
There was also no difference in hospitalizations or transmission among people living in the same household.
Possible prevention
However, researchers observed a slight difference in the development of Long COVID.
Fewer individuals in the group receiving vitamin D experienced persistent symptoms after eight weeks compared with the placebo group.
Researchers assess that vitamin D may play a role in the body’s immune system and reduce inflammatory responses that can contribute to prolonged illness.
Vitamin D cannot change the course of the disease itself but may potentially reduce the risk of developing Long COVID.
A study from King’s College London, published in the Journal of Translational Medicine, followed 65 patients over two years after treatment for a dental infection.
According to Science Daily, the researchers examined changes in the blood to understand how the body evolved over time.
They measured, among other things, sugar, fats, and proteins in the blood. These values can indicate how the body is functioning and whether there are signs of disease.
The results showed that several of these values changed after treatment, suggesting that the body responds to more than just the dental issue itself.
The mouth and the body are connected
The type of dental infection treated can allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream. According to the research, this may affect multiple parts of the body.
When bacteria spread, it can lead to inflammation, a condition often associated with diseases such as heart problems and difficulties with blood sugar regulation.
The study therefore suggests that issues in the mouth are not necessarily isolated but can affect the rest of the body.
A successful root canal treatment
The researchers also found that certain substances in the blood can be used to monitor how the body responds after treatment. This may be useful in future care.
The study further shows that a successful root canal treatment can lead to lower blood sugar, improved cholesterol levels, and reduced inflammation.
This suggests that treating dental infections may have implications for both heart health and metabolism.
Choosing whole-grain crust, adding vegetables, opting for lean toppings, controlling portions and pairing pizza with a salad can make it more cholesterol-friendly.
Getting up from a chair is something most people do without thinking. It’s part of daily life, almost automatic.
But as the years pass, that simple motion can quietly reflect how well the body is really functioning.
Health experts say one quick test may offer insight into strength, balance, and long-term independence. It takes just half a minute, yet the results can be surprisingly telling.
A widely used method
The assessment, known as the sit-to-stand test, was developed by researchers Roberta E. Rikli and C. Jessie Jones at California State University. It later became part of the Fullerton Functional Fitness Test.
Today, it is used internationally to evaluate mobility and predict fall risk among older adults. Programs such as the CDC’s STEADI initiative have also adopted it as a screening tool.
The process is straightforward: sit on a chair, cross your arms over your chest, and stand up and sit down as many times as possible within 30 seconds.
What the numbers mean
Results are typically compared against age and gender benchmarks established in research. Higher repetition counts generally indicate better lower-body strength and functional fitness.
Lower scores do not automatically signal serious health issues. Experts emphasize that results should be viewed alongside personal health history and overall condition.
Still, the test can serve as an early indicator, helping individuals understand whether they may need to focus more on strength and mobility.
Improving your results
Regular practice of the same movement can significantly improve performance. Studies suggest that performing the exercise several times per week over a few months can increase muscle strength and reduce effort in daily activities.
Research involving adults aged 75 to 88 found measurable gains in leg strength and improved ease of movement after consistent training.
Even modest improvements can support independence and reduce the likelihood of falls over time.
Monday’s press conference in the United States was intended to address foreign policy and tensions with Iran. However, the conversation shifted.
According to Newsner, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson mentioned his party colleague Neal Dunn.
He explained that Dunn had previously faced serious health problems but continued to carry out his duties.
As a result, a personal matter was introduced into an otherwise political context.
Sensitive information
The discussion developed further when questions were raised about Dunn’s health. It then emerged that the issue involved a serious diagnosis that had not previously been made public, according to Newsner.
According to the same source, the situation changed when Trump continued to ask questions.
It was then stated that Dunn, according to Johnson, had received a terminal diagnosis that had not previously been disclosed.
Trump subsequently commented that Dunn would not have survived until June.
The statement prompted Johnson to immediately emphasize that the information was sensitive and not intended for the public.
He also explained that medical assistance had since been initiated through specialists from the White House and a military hospital.
According to the same source, the treatment has had a positive effect, and Dunn’s condition is described as improved.
Debate on social media
The episode has since sparked debate, particularly on social media. Several people have criticized the public sharing of private health information.
The criticism concerns, among other things, the boundary between public interest and the right to privacy. The discussion therefore shifted to focus more on ethics than on politics.
Researchers followed more than 76,000 Swedes over a period of 19 years.
Participants regularly reported their diet and lifestyle in questionnaires, which were later compared with mortality data, according to the study published in The Journal of Nutrition.
The study includes both men and women in middle-aged and older age groups.
This provides a solid data foundation, but also means that the results do not necessarily apply to everyone.
The data are based on participants’ self-reported information, which may affect accuracy. Therefore, the findings should be interpreted with some caution.
Health and habits
Experts emphasize that it is not individual foods that make the difference, but the overall dietary pattern.
A diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, and fish, and low in processed foods, is often associated with better health.
According to nutrition experts, this type of diet may contribute to lower blood pressure, improved cholesterol levels, and reduced inflammation in the body.
This can reduce the risk of diseases such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
The study also shows that perfect habits are not required. Even small improvements in diet can have a positive effect over time.
Results and limitations
However, there are clear limitations. The study only shows an association and cannot prove that diet is the direct cause. Other factors such as physical activity and sleep also play a role.
The researchers have attempted to account for these factors, but it is difficult to fully separate them.
Individuals who closely followed the Nordic dietary guidelines, which include a high intake of vegetables and lean protein sources, had a 23 percent lower risk of death from all causes.
A study involving 144 adults with moderate anxiety examined how sound affects their symptoms.
Participants were already receiving medication, allowing researchers to test any additional effects.
The individuals were divided into four groups, listening to different types of audio for varying durations.
Some listened for 12 minutes, others for 24 or 36 minutes, while one group listened to pink noise, which can include sounds such as waterfalls, rain, or other calming audio.
Their anxiety and mood were measured before and after to determine whether any changes occurred.
This music works best
The results showed that music with specific sound patterns had a clear effect compared to ordinary background noise.
Participants experienced fewer negative thoughts and reduced physical discomfort. This included issues with concentration and bodily symptoms such as restlessness.
According to the researchers, this indicates that the structure of the sound plays a significant role in its effectiveness.
How long should you listen?
Although one might assume that longer listening leads to better results, the study found otherwise.
The most effective duration was 24 minutes. It produced better results than 12 minutes and the same effect as 36 minutes.
The study was conducted by Toronto Metropolitan University and published in PLOS Mental Health.
Most people feel reassured when their blood pressure readings seem under control. It creates a sense that the major risks are being handled.
But not all damage announces itself early, and some effects develop far from where most expect.
While high blood pressure is commonly linked to heart disease, medical experts are increasingly pointing to another vulnerable target: the kidneys.
A silent impact
According to reporting by The Times of India, kidney specialists warn that prolonged hypertension can gradually harm the body’s filtration system.
The kidneys constantly clean the blood, relying on delicate structures that are sensitive to pressure changes.
When blood pressure stays elevated over time, these tiny filters begin to deteriorate. This process is slow and often symptomless, which makes it difficult to detect early.
By the time routine tests reveal reduced kidney function, the condition may already be advanced.
Subtle warning signs
Early-stage kidney strain rarely causes sharp pain or obvious illness. Instead, the body sends quieter signals that are often overlooked in daily life.
Common indicators include:
Swelling in the lower limbs or face
Ongoing tiredness without explanation
Urine that appears unusually foamy
Health authorities, including the National Kidney Foundation, note that chronic kidney disease frequently develops without clear symptoms, especially in people with long-term hypertension.
Prevention matters
Even when blood pressure is managed with medication, experts stress the importance of regular kidney monitoring. Annual blood and urine tests can help detect early changes before they worsen.
Diet is another key factor. High sodium intake, often hidden in processed foods, can increase strain on both blood vessels and kidneys over time.
Recognising the connection between blood pressure and kidney health is essential. Early awareness and routine checks remain the most effective way to reduce long-term risk.
Certain foods and drinks can support the body’s fat burning by boosting metabolism and improving satiety.
Instead of supplements, research points to natural dietary choices. Here is an overview of foods that may contribute to weight loss and better health.
Fatty fish
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Fatty fish such as salmon, herring, and mackerel contain omega-3 fatty acids, which may help reduce body fat, according to a study published in Nutrición Hospitalaria.
They are also rich in protein, which increases satiety and can boost metabolism.
MCT oil
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MCT oil is metabolized differently than other fats and may increase metabolism while reducing appetite, according to a study published in Nutrients(1).
It may also help preserve muscle mass during weight loss.
Green tea contains the antioxidant EGCG, which may promote fat burning and reduce abdominal fat, according to a study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
A daily intake of a couple of cups may provide health benefits.
Whey protein
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Whey protein can increase satiety by stimulating hormones that signal fullness, according to a study published in Nutrients (2).
It may also support fat loss and improve body composition.
Apple cider vinegar
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Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which in an animal study published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition(2) is associated with increased fat burning and reduced fat storage.
It should be consumed in small amounts diluted in water.
Chili
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Chili contains capsaicin, which may increase satiety and reduce the risk of overeating, according to a study published in Molecules. It may therefore help maintain a healthy weight.
Oolong tea
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Oolong tea contains polyphenols and caffeine, which may support weight loss and fat burning.
However, the effect is primarily observed in animal studies, for example those published in Food & Nutrition Research.
Greek yogurt
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Full-fat Greek yogurt is rich in protein, potassium, and calcium. Protein-rich dairy products may contribute to weight loss and fat reduction, according to a study published in Nature Portfolio.
Olive oil
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Olive oil consists mainly of oleic acid, which may have a positive effect on body fat, according to a study published in Advances in Nutrition.
It can easily be included in the diet as a dressing or in cooking.
Frequently asked questions
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Drinks such as tea, coffee, and protein shakes can support weight loss. Foods rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats may help reduce abdominal fat.
No miracle cure
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There is no miracle cure for fat burning, but several natural foods and drinks can boost metabolism and support healthy weight loss over time.
