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These vegetables may lower the risk of colon cancer

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

17. March, 2026

These vegetables may lower the risk of colon cancer

Colon cancer is a disease in which early detection often makes treatment more effective.

For this reason, health authorities recommend regular screenings and attention to symptoms.

At the same time, researchers are investigating how diet may affect the risk of the disease.

Several previous studies have shown that a diet rich in plants and fiber is associated with better gut health.

An analysis published in BMC Gastroenterology has examined the link between specific vegetables and the occurrence of colon cancer.

97,595 participants examined

The researchers reviewed data from 17 previous studies involving a total of 97,595 participants. The participants had reported themselves how many vegetables they ate.

The results were then compared with how many later developed colon cancer.

According to the analysis, there was a clear difference between people with high and low intake of a specific type of vegetable.

A specific group of vegetables

The vegetables highlighted by the research are cruciferous vegetables. These include broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, and Brussels sprouts.

According to researchers, these vegetables contain substances called glucosinolates.

When they are broken down in the body, they become bioactive compounds known as isothiocyanates, which can help the body break down harmful substances and reduce inflammation.

The meta-analysis shows that a daily intake of around 40 to 60 grams of these vegetables was associated with a lower risk of colon cancer.

Overall, the difference corresponds to a reduction in risk of about 20 percent.

Sources: Prevention, and BMC Gastroenterology.

Foods that are illegal or restricted in some countries

Mie Hermansen

17. March, 2026

Foods that are illegal or restricted in some countries

Food traditions vary widely across the globe, and so do the rules about what people are allowed to eat. Some foods are considered delicacies in one country but are banned or heavily regulated elsewhere due to health concerns, animal welfare, or environmental protection.

Fugu

“Pufferfish Blowfish” by Skitter Photo/ CC0 1.0

Fugu is a Japanese dish made from pufferfish, a species that naturally contains extremely dangerous toxins. If the fish is not cleaned properly, even a small amount can be fatal. Because of this risk, only specially trained chefs with a license are allowed to prepare it.

Casu marzu

“Wheel cheese cut stacked front“/ CC0 1.0

Casu marzu is a traditional cheese from the Italian island of Sardinia. It begins as pecorino cheese but is intentionally exposed to flies that lay eggs inside it. The larvae break down the cheese, making it softer and creamier. Due to possible health risks, the cheese is banned from commercial sale.

Akee

Akee is the national fruit of Jamaica and an important ingredient in local cuisine. However, the fruit can be poisonous if eaten before it is fully ripe. It contains a toxin that can cause serious illness, which is why fresh akee is banned in the United States.

Foie gras

Foie gras is a fatty liver product made from ducks or geese. The animals are force-fed to enlarge their livers, creating the rich texture the dish is known for. The production method has led to widespread criticism over animal welfare, and it has been banned in several places.

Bushmeat

“Monkey Portrait” by Joe deSousa/ CC0 1.0

Bushmeat refers to meat from wild animals such as bats, monkeys, and other wildlife. The trade is controversial because it threatens biodiversity and may spread diseases from animals to humans. For these reasons, importing bushmeat into the United States is illegal.

Raw milk

Raw milk is milk that has not been pasteurized. Without this treatment, harmful bacteria such as salmonella or E. coli may remain in the product. Because of the potential health risks, the sale of raw milk is banned or restricted in several countries.

Shark fins

Shark fins are used in certain dishes, but the way they are often obtained has been heavily criticized. In many cases, the fins are cut off and the rest of the shark is thrown back into the ocean. Due to animal welfare and conservation concerns, the trade in shark fins has been banned in several countries.

Sea turtles

Sea turtles are now protected as an endangered species in many parts of the world. In the past, their meat was used in dishes such as turtle soup. Overconsumption contributed to the decline of the species, and eating sea turtles is now illegal in the United States.

Haggis

“Curious Sheep” by Trinity Kubassek/ CC0 1.0

Haggis is a traditional Scottish dish made from sheep organs mixed with oatmeal, fat, and spices. The mixture is cooked inside a sheep’s stomach. Because the recipe includes sheep lungs, which cannot be sold as food in the United States, importing haggis is banned there.

Kinder Surprise

“Kinder egg mascot, chocolate brand“/ CC0 1.0

Kinder Surprise is a chocolate egg that contains a small toy inside. In the United States, food products are not allowed to contain non-edible items because they can pose a choking hazard. As a result, the product is banned there.

Why Food Bans Differ Around the World

“Market Fruits” by Agnieszka%20Wal%u0119dziak/ CC0 1.0

The rules surrounding food often depend on local laws, cultural values, and health regulations. What one country considers normal cuisine may be viewed as dangerous, unethical, or unsustainable elsewhere. These differences highlight how food traditions and regulations can vary widely across the world.

Sources: Chowhound

Millions of kids take melatonin — now doctors are raising concerns

Mie Hermansen

17. March, 2026

Millions of kids take melatonin — now doctors are raising concerns

Late evenings, restless kids and parents searching for a peaceful night have become a familiar scene in many homes. When sleep refuses to come, many families look for something simple that might help.

Over the past decade, one small supplement has quietly moved into countless bedtime routines.

A fast-growing habit

Melatonin, a hormone that regulates the body’s sleep cycle, is now widely used by children and teenagers.

Because it is sold over the counter in many countries, parents often see it as a harmless and convenient sleep aid.

Researchers say that perception may be misleading. Unlike typical vitamins, melatonin affects several systems in the body, including metabolism, immune responses and reproductive processes.

A scientific review published in the World Journal of Pediatrics and discussed by researchers connected to Boston Children’s Hospital examined how melatonin is being used globally among young people.

Evidence gaps

The analysis found that melatonin can be helpful for children with certain neurological or developmental conditions.

For example, young people with autism or ADHD may fall asleep faster and sleep longer when the hormone is used under medical supervision.

For otherwise healthy children struggling with sleep, the evidence is much less clear. Most clinical studies have been short and focused on older children, leaving scientists unsure about long term effects.

Researchers say questions remain about whether extended use could influence development, hormones or brain health.

Risks outside clinics

Scientists also highlighted safety concerns linked to everyday use.

Testing of commercial products has revealed large differences between labeled and actual doses.

Poison control centers have also reported more cases of accidental ingestion by young children. Experts emphasize that better sleep habits should come first:

consistent bedtime routines
limited screen use at night
stable sleep schedules

Sources: Science Daily and Springer Nature

Psychologist reveals a simple way to spot a lie in seconds

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

17. March, 2026

Psychologist reveals a simple way to spot a lie in seconds

Some people have personality traits that may make them more inclined to manipulate or lie.

These include psychopathy, narcissism, Machiavellianism, and sadism.

Social psychologist Leanne ten Brinke from the University of British Columbia has spent several years researching these traits.

She studies how they influence people’s behavior in social relationships, according to Business Insider.

The purpose is not to diagnose people in everyday life. Instead, the research focuses on understanding patterns of behavior and becoming better at dealing with manipulation or dishonesty.

Myths about lies

Many people believe that you can spot a liar by watching their body language – for example, if someone avoids eye contact or seems nervous.

However, these signs are not very reliable. Studies have shown that people who are telling the truth and those who are lying often behave very similarly when it comes to eye contact.

For that reason, it is easy to make mistakes if you rely only on body language. Instead, it is more useful to listen carefully to what the person is actually saying.

A simple question

An important difference between liars and people who are telling the truth is often found in their answers.

People who are telling the truth usually find it easier to provide detailed explanations.

That is why open-ended questions can be useful. Questions that require an explanation rather than a short yes-or-no answer make it harder to maintain a lie.

Unexpected questions can also make it more difficult to invent a story. If a person is not prepared, it can be challenging to give a clear and detailed response.

For that reason, research points to a simple method. By quickly asking open-ended and unexpected questions, it is often possible to assess whether a person struggles to provide coherent answers.

This may be a sign that the person is not telling the truth.

Sources: Business Insider.

Jane Fallon diagnosed with breast cancer without symptoms – experts urge people to watch for these signs

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

16. March, 2026

Jane Fallon diagnosed with breast cancer without symptoms – experts urge people to watch for these signs

Author Jane Fallon, partner of Ricky Gervais, recently revealed that she has been diagnosed with breast cancer even though she had no symptoms.

The disease was only discovered during a routine mammogram screening.

At the same time, experts point out that breast cancer can appear in several other ways besides the well-known lumps.

Change in breast size or shape

Breasts can naturally change throughout life, but a clear change in size or shape may be a sign that should not be ignored.

Experts recommend becoming familiar with what is normal for your own body, making it easier to notice new changes.

Redness or rash on the breast

Redness or a rash on the skin around the breast or nipple can, in some cases, be a sign of illness.

Although it may also be caused by irritation from things such as detergent or clothing, persistent skin changes should be examined.

Crusting

If the skin around the nipple begins to form crusts or changes appearance, it may signal that something is not normal.

Such changes should be assessed by a doctor.

Discharge from the nipple

If fluid comes from the nipple without it being pressed, it is recommended that it be checked. It may be an important symptom that requires medical evaluation.

Swelling in the armpit

Breast tissue is also found in the area under the armpit. Therefore, unusual swelling here may be a sign of breast cancer and should be taken seriously.

Swelling around the collarbone

Breast tissue can also extend toward the collarbone. A new swelling in this area may be a change that should be examined more closely.

Change in skin texture

Changes in the surface of the skin on the breast can be a warning sign.

If the skin, for example, develops small dimples or begins to resemble orange peel, it may be a symptom that should be investigated.

Suddenly inverted nipple

Some people naturally have inverted nipples, but if the nipple suddenly changes direction and turns inward, it may be an important change to react to.

Persistent pain in the breast

Constant pain or tenderness in the breast can be a sign of breast cancer. Pain in the breast area is common and can have several causes, but if it does not go away, you should contact a doctor.

Persistent pain in the armpit

Ongoing pain in the armpit can also be a possible sign of breast cancer. If the discomfort does not disappear after some time, it is important to have it examined.

Early detection increases treatment chances

Early detection of breast cancer can make a significant difference to treatment options.

According to health authorities, the disease can often be treated more effectively when it is discovered at an early stage.

Screening can detect the disease without symptoms

Screening can reveal breast cancer even before you notice any changes yourself.

Jane Fallon had no symptoms, and the disease was only discovered during a routine mammogram.

Sources: The Sun.

New study examines how frequently people fart during the day

Body

Mie Hermansen

16. March, 2026

New study examines how frequently people fart during the day

Everyone has experienced an awkward moment when the body suddenly makes itself heard. It is one of the most ordinary human experiences, yet it is rarely discussed openly.

Behind those small everyday moments, however, lies a complex digestive process driven by billions of gut microbes.

For decades, doctors and researchers had only rough estimates of how often people pass gas.

Much of the available information came from small studies or from people trying to remember something most would rather forget.

An unusual invention

Researchers at the University of Maryland have developed a wearable sensor designed to measure intestinal gas more accurately.

The device attaches to regular underwear and detects hydrogen released during digestion.

Hydrogen is produced when bacteria in the gut break down food. By monitoring this gas continuously, scientists can observe microbial activity inside the digestive system throughout the day and night.

Early testing of the device was carried out by researchers Santiago Botasini and Brantley Hall at the university, who wanted to find a more reliable way to study gas production in everyday life.

More frequent than expected

Initial trials with healthy volunteers revealed that people may pass gas far more often than older scientific estimates suggested.

Participants produced an average of around 32 gas events per day, while earlier medical literature often cited numbers closer to 14.

Researchers believe the earlier estimates were lower because previous methods relied on memory or laboratory testing that could not capture nighttime activity.

The results also showed large differences between individuals:

Some people produced only a few events per day
Others recorded nearly 60 within 24 hours
Diet and gut bacteria appeared to strongly influence the numbers

Mapping normal digestion

The research team is now preparing a larger project called the Human Flatus Atlas. The goal is to measure gas production across hundreds of volunteers in the United States.

By combining wearable sensors with dietary data and microbiome analysis, scientists hope to understand what “normal” gas production actually looks like.

Establishing these baseline patterns could also help researchers study how diet, probiotics and gut bacteria influence digestion.

Source: Science Daily and Science Direct

Renewed discussion about Putin’s health raises questions about Russia’s future

Mie Hermansen

16. March, 2026

Renewed discussion about Putin’s health raises questions about Russia’s future

In many countries, long-serving leaders become closely tied to the identity and direction of the state itself.

When one individual has dominated politics for decades, questions about what happens next inevitably begin to surface.

That conversation has once again emerged around Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has remained at the center of Russia’s political system for more than twenty years.

Renewed attention

Discussion about the president’s health resurfaced after footage briefly appeared online showing Putin coughing during a recorded address.

The clip circulated on social media before it was later replaced with a shorter version that did not include the moment.

The appearance of the video prompted fresh speculation among commentators and observers about the condition of the 73-year-old leader.

According to reporting from The Moscow Times, the incident quickly drew attention online and renewed broader discussions about Russia’s political future.

Years of speculation

Rumors about Putin’s health have circulated for years. Various commentators have suggested possible illnesses, though none of these claims have been confirmed by official sources.

Russian political analyst Valery Solovey has previously made controversial statements suggesting the president was seriously ill, while similar speculation has appeared in international political debates.

At times, unverified theories have also spread online claiming that the Russian leader uses body doubles. However, no credible evidence has supported those claims.

What happens if a president dies

Russia’s constitution outlines a process for leadership succession if a sitting president dies in office.

Under those rules, the prime minister would temporarily assume the role of acting president until a national election is held.

Political researcher Jens Siegert discusses several possible post-Putin scenarios in his book Where Is Russia Heading?.

He suggests Russia could either maintain its current political system or potentially move toward gradual political change depending on how power transitions within the elite.

Ultimately, analysts say the direction Russia takes would depend on how its political institutions and leadership respond in the moment.

Sources: Unilad and Moscow Times

PFAS traces found in over one-third of tested fruits and vegetables

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

16. March, 2026

PFAS traces found in over one-third of tested fruits and vegetables

PFAS is a group of man-made chemicals. They are used in products such as electronics, nonstick cookware, and pesticides applied in agriculture.

The substances are known for being highly stable and can therefore remain in nature for many years, according to the Environmental Working Group.

In the United States, nearly 70 pesticides containing PFAS are registered.

This corresponds to about 14 percent of all pesticide ingredients approved by U.S. environmental authorities.

According to official records, around 2.5 million pounds of PFAS pesticides are used on agricultural land in one U.S. state each year, the Environmental Working Group reports.

Study of fruits and vegetables

An analysis of government testing data conducted by the Environmental Working Group examined pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables. In total, 930 samples were analyzed.

The results show that 348 of the samples contained traces of PFAS pesticides. This corresponds to 37 percent of the products examined, HealthDay reports.

The study included 78 different types of conventionally grown fruits and vegetables. Residues of PFAS-based pesticides were found in 40 of them.

Results from California

Some fruits stood out particularly in the study.

More than 90 percent of the tested nectarines, plums, and peaches contained a PFAS-based fungicide used to prevent mold during storage and transport.

PFAS pesticides were also found in at least 80 percent of samples of cherries, strawberries, and grapes. Strawberries contained residues from as many as ten different PFAS pesticides.

The study therefore shows that traces of PFAS pesticides are present in several fruits and vegetables grown in California.

At the same time, researchers emphasize that fruits and vegetables remain an important part of a healthy diet, and that thorough washing and choosing organic products can reduce exposure.

Sources: HealthDay, and Environmental Working Group.

FDA recall warns cream cheese could cause serious illness

Mie Hermansen

16. March, 2026

FDA recall warns cream cheese could cause serious illness

Many people keep cream cheese in their fridge without thinking twice about it. It is a simple staple used for breakfast, snacks, and cooking.

But occasionally, routine food safety checks uncover problems that turn an everyday product into a potential health risk.

That is now the case with several cream cheese products that authorities say could pose a serious danger to consumers.

Serious FDA warning

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a Class I recall for a range of cream cheese products made by the company Made Fresh Salads.

This is the most severe warning level the FDA can assign. It is used when there is a realistic chance that consuming a product could cause severe illness or death.

The recall initially began in February but was upgraded to the highest warning level on March 11.

How the problem started

According to the FDA, the issue was discovered during routine food safety sampling.

Investigators later traced the potential contamination to part of a mixer used in the production process. The equipment was found to contain Listeria monocytogenes bacteria.

The company has since removed the affected mixer from production.

Products affected

The recalled items were sold in five-pound white plastic tubs with a Made Fresh Salads label and distributed in New York City areas including Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx.

The following flavors are included in the recall:

Apple Cinnamon
Caramel
Blueberry
Garlic & Herb
Jalapeño
Jalapeño Cheddar
Lox
Scallion
Strawberry
Sundried Tomato
Vegetable
Walnut Raisin
Whipped Cream Cheese
Tofu Whipped

Health risks

Listeria infections can cause symptoms such as nausea, headache, fatigue, diarrhea and muscle pain.

For vulnerable groups, including older adults and people with weakened immune systems, the infection can become severe and lead to serious complications.

Sources: Unilad and Newsweek

What research says about drinking water from plastic bottles

Mie Hermansen

16. March, 2026

What research says about drinking water from plastic bottles

Bottled water has become a normal part of everyday life for many people. At the same time, concerns about plastic and health have grown. Researchers are therefore examining what may happen in the body when water is consumed from plastic bottles.

Plastic bottles are made from PET

Single use plastic bottles are typically made from polyethylene terephthalate, known as PET, which is considered safe for food contact.

Heat can break down the plastic

When plastic bottles are exposed to heat, the material can start to degrade faster, which may increase the chance that plastic particles are released into the water.

Sunlight can weaken the bottle

Direct sunlight can make the plastic more brittle. This can lead to cracks and a weaker bottle structure.

The bottle cap can release plastic fragments

Small plastic fragments may form when the bottle cap is screwed on and off repeatedly.

Reusing single use bottles may increase release

Actions such as squeezing the bottle, washing it, scrubbing it, or repeatedly twisting the cap can increase the release of microplastics.

Microplastics can end up in the body

“Water Bottle” by Steve Johnson/ CC0 1.0

Researchers have detected both microplastics and nanoplastics in the human body. These particles can originate from plastic products such as bottles.

What microplastics are

“Water Bottle Filling Station in Two” by National Park Service/ CC0 1.0

Microplastics are plastic particles measuring 5 millimeters or less in diameter, while nanoplastics are even smaller and measure under 1 micrometer.

Smaller particles may interact with body tissues

Larger plastic particles may pass through the digestive system, while smaller particles can interact more directly with body tissues.

Plastic particles can cross bodily barriers

Research shows that micro and nanoplastics may pass through intestinal barriers and enter the bloodstream.

Possible toxic reactions in the body

When plastic particles enter the body, they may trigger reactions such as inflammation and oxidative stress, which can lead to tissue damage.

No clear link to disease yet

Current research has not established a direct connection between drinking bottled water and specific diseases in humans.

Important data is still missing

A 2019 report from the World Health Organization notes that key data about microplastics in drinking water is still lacking.

Glass and metal may reduce exposure

To reduce exposure to microplastics, experts recommend avoiding reuse of single use plastic bottles and choosing reusable containers made of glass or metal.

Sources: Chowhound

1...848586...370 Page 85 of 370

97,595 participants examined

A specific group of vegetables

Fugu

Casu marzu

Akee

Foie gras

Bushmeat

Raw milk

Shark fins

Sea turtles

Haggis

Kinder Surprise

Why Food Bans Differ Around the World

A fast-growing habit

Evidence gaps

Risks outside clinics

Myths about lies

A simple question

Change in breast size or shape

Redness or rash on the breast

Crusting

Discharge from the nipple

Swelling in the armpit

Swelling around the collarbone

Change in skin texture

Suddenly inverted nipple

Persistent pain in the breast

Persistent pain in the armpit

Early detection increases treatment chances

Screening can detect the disease without symptoms

An unusual invention

More frequent than expected

Mapping normal digestion

Renewed attention

Years of speculation

What happens if a president dies

Study of fruits and vegetables

Results from California

Serious FDA warning

How the problem started

Products affected

Health risks

Plastic bottles are made from PET

Heat can break down the plastic

Sunlight can weaken the bottle

The bottle cap can release plastic fragments

Reusing single use bottles may increase release

Microplastics can end up in the body

What microplastics are

Smaller particles may interact with body tissues

Plastic particles can cross bodily barriers

Possible toxic reactions in the body

No clear link to disease yet

Important data is still missing

Glass and metal may reduce exposure

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