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Are you bloated? Experts recommend adding yogurt to your diet

9. March, 2026

Are you bloated? Experts recommend adding yogurt to your diet

Gut health plays an important role in the entire body and can affect digestion, the immune system, and even mood.

Experts point out that certain foods containing probiotics can help create balance in the gut and reduce bloating.

One food in particular is highlighted as an especially good choice.

Gut health affects the whole body

The condition of the gut influences far more than just digestion. It can, among other things, affect circulation, mood, and the body’s overall well-being.

Probiotics add beneficial bacteria

Probiotics are bacteria that contribute positively to the gut environment. They help improve the balance of the gut microbiota and may reduce bloating.

Difference between probiotics and prebiotics

Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria to the gut, while prebiotics act as fibers that nourish the bacteria already present in the digestive system.

Diet is often better than supplements

Although probiotics are available as dietary supplements, doctors and dietitians often recommend getting them through regular foods.

Yogurt highlighted as the best choice

Research and gastroenterology specialists point to yogurt as one of the most effective probiotic foods for supporting gut balance and reducing bloating.

Live bacteria strengthen gut balance

Yogurt contains live bacteria that help create a healthy balance in the gut microbiome.

Probiotics can improve digestion

According to experts, the bacteria in yogurt can help the body break down lactose and other foods that may otherwise be difficult to digest.

Beneficial bacteria in yogurt

Yogurt contains bacteria such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Saccharomyces, which contribute to a healthy gut.

The bacteria support the immune system

These beneficial bacteria can produce substances that strengthen the gut’s immune defenses and encourage the growth of other helpful bacteria.

Yogurt can reduce bloating

Even if you feel bloated after a meal, yogurt may help reduce discomfort by supporting the digestive process.

Other health benefits

In addition to supporting gut health, yogurt can also contribute to a stronger immune system, help regulate calcium metabolism, and support bone health.

Alternatives to traditional yogurt

People who cannot tolerate dairy products can choose kefir or plant-based yogurts with live cultures as alternatives.

Sugary yogurt should be avoided

Too much sugar in yogurt can counteract its health benefits, so it is recommended to choose varieties without high sugar content.

Several foods contain probiotics

In addition to yogurt, experts also highlight kimchi, sauerkraut, miso, tempeh, kombucha, and fermented pickles as foods that can support gut health.

A balanced diet is important

Experts emphasize that probiotic foods should be included as part of a varied diet and consumed in moderate amounts.

Too much can cause discomfort

A very high intake of probiotic foods can lead to symptoms such as bloating, gas, or other digestive problems.

Sources: Parade.

New dietary guidelines recommend more protein – here’s how much you should eat

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

9. March, 2026

New dietary guidelines recommend more protein – here’s how much you should eat

The new American dietary guidelines have sparked debate among nutrition specialists.

The guidelines highlight several food groups and place emphasis on certain types of food in the daily diet.

According to the health website Verywell Health, dietitian Grace A. Derocha from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics points out that some of the recommendations may appear unclear to consumers.

She particularly notes that the focus on products such as butter, animal fats, red meat, and full-fat dairy products could create uncertainty.

At the same time, the guidelines recommend that saturated fat should account for no more than 10 percent of total calorie intake.

Research also shows, according to Grace A. Derocha, that saturated fat can be replaced with unsaturated fats from plant sources.

This can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Familiar dietary advice

Despite the discussion, many of the recommendations are based on well-known nutritional principles.

Experts emphasize, among other things, the importance of eating more fruits and vegetables, more whole grains, and more dietary fiber.

At the same time, it is recommended to limit ultra-processed foods as well as foods high in sugar and salt.

Healthier fats are also highlighted as an important part of a balanced diet.

According to nutrition experts, many people already know what is healthy to eat. The biggest challenge is often maintaining good eating habits in everyday life.

A new focus

Dietary guidelines must also be adapted to the individual. Age, lifestyle, and health can influence how much and what type of food is most appropriate.

This also applies to the choice of protein sources. Fish, eggs, meat, and dairy products, as well as beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds, can all be included in the diet.

The new American dietary guidelines recommend a higher intake of protein than before.

The guidelines suggest between 1.2 and 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day and recommend including protein in every meal.

Sources: Verywell Health and the American dietary guidelines.

Doctors reveal how often you should do lunges for stronger knees

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

9. March, 2026

Doctors reveal how often you should do lunges for stronger knees

Knee pain is a widespread problem, particularly among adults and older individuals.

Nevertheless, experts point out that certain types of exercise can help support knee function over time.

According to medical research published in JAMA, knee pain accounts for around five percent of all consultations with general practitioners.

A widespread problem

Many people try to protect their knees by avoiding strain and physical activity.

But according to the media outlet Parade, too little movement can in some cases have the opposite effect.

Several orthopedic surgeons explain in the article that the cartilage in the knee does not have its own blood supply.

Instead, the tissue receives nutrients through movement, where repeated loading and unloading help transport nutrients to the cartilage.

This means that regular and controlled movement may be important for keeping the knee joint functional over time.

The muscles around the knee

Stability in the knee depends largely on the muscles surrounding the joint. When the muscles in the thighs, hips, and glutes are strong, they can absorb part of the load that would otherwise affect the knee joint itself.

According to Parade, orthopedic surgeon Luke Garbarino highlights that several large muscle groups work together in many lower-body exercises.

These include the thigh muscles, glutes, abdominal muscles, and calves.

If these muscles are weak or do not work properly together, the knee may be exposed to greater mechanical stress. This can increase the risk of pain or injury.

Doctors’ recommendations

How much exercise is appropriate depends on the person’s health and physical condition.

According to Parade, orthopedic surgeon David Shau believes that training should be adjusted so that the knee does not swell or cause more pain the following day.

For people without knee problems, two to three sets of lunges with eight to ten repetitions per leg a couple of times per week may be a starting point.

People with knee osteoarthritis or previous surgeries should often begin more cautiously.

Sources: Parade, and JAMA.

Less stress in the family may reduce childhood obesity

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

9. March, 2026

Less stress in the family may reduce childhood obesity

Childhood obesity is usually associated with unhealthy food and too little physical activity. For this reason, many health initiatives focus on improving diet and increasing physical activity.

However, researchers from Yale University believe there may also be other causes.

According to their study published in Pediatrics, stress among parents may affect children’s eating habits and overall health.

When parents feel under pressure, it can become more difficult to maintain consistent daily routines. This may lead to more quick and less healthy meals within the family.

The study

The study included 114 parents with children between the ages of two and five who were already overweight or at risk of becoming so.

The families participated in a 12-week program with weekly meetings.

Some parents received guidance on diet and physical activity. Others took part in a program where they also learned methods to manage stress and to be more mindful in their role as parents.

Among other factors, the researchers monitored the parents’ stress levels, the children’s eating habits, and the children’s weight.

The results

After the trial, clear differences appeared between the groups.

Parents who participated in the stress-management program experienced lower stress levels and better interaction with their children. Their children also consumed fewer unhealthy foods.

Three months after the program, these children had not gained significant weight.

In the other group, the children’s weight increased more. In this group, the risk of moving into the overweight or obesity category was six times higher at follow-up.

The findings therefore suggest that reducing parental stress may be an important part of efforts to prevent childhood obesity.

Sources: Science Daily, and Pediatrics.

Experts study possible link between dreams and early signs of illness

Mie Hermansen

9. March, 2026

Experts study possible link between dreams and early signs of illness

Most people have experienced waking up from a strange or unsettling dream and brushing it off the next morning.

Dreams can feel random, confusing or even absurd, which is why many people rarely think about them again after they wake up.

But researchers studying sleep believe that what happens in our dreams could sometimes reflect what is going on inside our bodies.

In some cases, unusual dream patterns may even appear before physical symptoms of illness.

When the brain checks the body

During sleep, the brain continues to process signals from different parts of the body. These signals help maintain balance in vital systems such as stress response, immunity and temperature regulation.

Sleep researchers say this monitoring becomes especially active during REM sleep, the stage when vivid dreaming typically occurs.

During this phase, the brain processes and combines information about the body’s internal state.

According to sleep researcher Patrick McNamara from Boston University School of Medicine, the brain effectively reviews internal signals during sleep and turns them into dream imagery.

The theory of “prodromal dreams”

Scientists sometimes describe these dreams as prodromal dreams. The term refers to early signs that appear before the full symptoms of an illness become noticeable.

Some researchers believe that when the body detects early changes, the brain may translate those signals into symbolic dream scenarios.

This does not only apply to serious illnesses. In theory, even mild infections such as a cold or flu could trigger changes in dream patterns.

Patterns researchers have noticed

Studies suggest certain dream themes may appear more often when the brain is responding to internal stress signals.

Researchers have observed recurring patterns such as:

Dreams involving sudden aggression or hostility from others
Encounters with unfamiliar or threatening strangers
Situations where the dreamer feels under attack or unsafe

Scientists emphasise that dreams alone cannot diagnose disease. However, unusual or recurring nightmares may sometimes reflect underlying stress or physical changes the body is experiencing.

Sources: Unilad and Daily Mail

This is how your body reacts to drinking orange juice daily

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

9. March, 2026

This is how your body reacts to drinking orange juice daily

For many people, orange juice is a regular part of the morning routine.

However, even though the juice contains several important nutrients, it can also have some drawbacks if consumed daily.

Vitamin C

A glass of 100 percent orange juice provides more than the entire recommended daily intake of vitamin C.

This vitamin plays an important role in the immune system and helps the body remain resilient.

Potassium

Orange juice also contains potassium, a mineral that is important for the heart. It also helps regulate the body’s fluid balance.

Folate

The juice contains folate, a nutrient necessary for healthy cell growth. For this reason, orange juice can be a source of important vitamins in the diet.

It can support the immune system

The nutrients found in orange juice can collectively help support the body’s immune system.

Among other things, vitamin C and plant compounds play a role in this process.

Fluid balance

Orange juice can also be a source of fluids. It can therefore help keep the body hydrated, especially in warm weather or when you are ill.

Extra nutrients

Some types of orange juice are fortified with calcium and vitamin D. These nutrients can help support bone health.

Concentrated nutrients

When oranges are pressed into juice, several of the nutrients become concentrated in the liquid. As a result, a single glass of juice can provide many of the same vitamins as several oranges.

Almost no dietary fiber

During the process of pressing oranges into juice, most of the fruit’s fiber is removed. This means the juice is not as filling as a whole orange.

Blood sugar may rise quickly

Because the juice lacks fiber, the sugar is absorbed more quickly by the body. This can lead to rapid increases in both blood sugar and insulin.

Extra calories

Drinks high in sugar, including fruit juice, can contain more calories than many people expect.

If consumed regularly in large amounts, this may lead to unwanted weight gain.

It can affect the teeth

Orange juice is relatively acidic. Over time, this may contribute to softening and wearing down tooth enamel if it is consumed frequently.

Lower risk of diseases

Research published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (1), The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2), and Molecular Nutrition & Food Research suggests that consuming natural juices such as orange juice may be associated with a lower risk of certain diseases.

This includes conditions such as dementia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and blood pressure problems.

It should be consumed in moderation

Nutrition experts recommend enjoying orange juice in moderation. A serving of around half a cup may be an appropriate amount.

Sources: Real Simple, The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (1), The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2) og Molecular Nutrition & Food Research.

Study of 400,000 people highlights uncertain effects of omega-3 supplements

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

9. March, 2026

Study of 400,000 people highlights uncertain effects of omega-3 supplements

A large research project, published in the scientific journal BMJ, has focused attention on the use of omega-3 supplements.

Researchers examined data from around 400,000 people in the British health database UK Biobank, where participants were followed for approximately 12 years.

The study found a statistical association between regular use of fish oil and a higher incidence of the heart rhythm disorder atrial fibrillation.

A small increase in the risk of stroke was also observed.

Widely used supplement

Omega-3 is one of the most widely used dietary supplements in the world. Many people take the capsules to support heart and brain health.

The fatty acids occur naturally in foods such as oily fish as well as in some plant-based products. For this reason, health authorities often recommend obtaining them through the diet.

However, researchers and doctors have long debated whether supplements provide the same effect as eating fish and other natural sources of omega-3.

Different effects

The study also showed a different result among people who already had heart disease.

In this group, omega-3 supplements were associated with a lower risk of the disease worsening and with fewer fatal complications.

The British Heart Foundation notes, however, that the researchers did not know the exact type of fish oil or the doses used by participants. This makes it more difficult to draw firm conclusions.

Overall, the research suggests that omega-3 capsules may be associated with an increased risk of certain heart problems in healthy adults, while the effect may be different for people with heart disease.

Sources: Nyheder 24, BMJ, and LADbible.

New study: Children’s diet may affect their behavior

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

9. March, 2026

New study: Children’s diet may affect their behavior

Ready meals and other highly processed foods are becoming more common in many families’ daily lives.

They are easy to buy, require almost no preparation, and are often cheaper than many fresh ingredients.

For that reason, they have become a regular part of many children’s diets. This has led researchers to take a closer look at whether this type of food may affect children in the long term.

According to a study published in the journal JAMA Network Open, researchers examined the connection between children’s diets and their emotional development.

Study of children

The researchers used data from a large Canadian project on pregnancy and children’s health. The project includes information on both diet and development in children over several years.

The analysis included nearly 2,100 children. The researchers compared the children’s diets at the age of three with their well-being two years later.

To assess this, the researchers used questionnaires that measure, among other things, restlessness, emotional reactions, and behavior in children.

Connection in the data

The results showed a clear connection.

The larger the share of the children’s diets that consisted of ultra-processed foods, the more signs there were of emotional and behavioral problems.

These included anxiety, fearfulness, aggression, and hyperactivity. The risk increased gradually as the children consumed more calories from this type of food.

The researchers also found that small changes in diet could make a difference.

If some of the ultra-processed foods were replaced with simpler foods such as fruit or vegetables, the children’s overall score for behavioral problems decreased.

Sources: HealthDay, and JAMA Network Open.

Kombucha may not boost gut health as much as many believe

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

9. March, 2026

Kombucha may not boost gut health as much as many believe

Kombucha is a fermented tea drink that has become very popular in recent years.

Many people drink it because they believe it can improve digestion and strengthen the bacteria in the gut.

The drink is made by fermenting tea with bacteria and yeast. This process creates organic acids and microorganisms that are often associated with a healthy gut.

For this reason, kombucha is often marketed as a healthy alternative to soft drinks.

However, according to a review cited by the media outlet Parade, there is limited research documenting these health effects.

Uncertain effect on the gut

According to gastroenterologist Rockford Yapp, whom Parade has spoken with, the bacterial content can vary greatly from bottle to bottle.

This is partly due to differences in production, storage, and whether the drink has been heat-treated.

Heat treatment is often used to extend shelf life, but it can also reduce the amount of live bacteria.

Even when the bacteria are present, it is not certain that they survive the journey through stomach acid or produce a clear health effect.

Sugar may play a role

Another challenge is the sugar content. Many store-bought kombucha products contain a considerable amount of added sugar.

According to Rockford Yapp, too much sugar can negatively affect the bacteria in the gut. It may, among other things, lead to bloating, stomach irritation, or fluctuations in blood sugar.

This can be particularly problematic for people who already have a sensitive stomach.

Other fermented foods

Experts also point out that other fermented foods are often better studied.

According to dietitian Kezia Joy, who was also interviewed by Parade, yogurt and kefir are more reliable sources of probiotics.

Fermented vegetables such as kimchi and sauerkraut also contain dietary fiber, which helps the bacteria already present in the gut.

Experts therefore conclude that kombucha may be a fermented drink with possible benefits, but it is not a guaranteed way to improve gut health.

Sources: Parade.

New study links GLP-1 medication and these eight healthy habits to better heart health

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

9. March, 2026

New study links GLP-1 medication and these eight healthy habits to better heart health

A new study published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology suggests that people with type 2 diabetes may reduce the risk of serious heart problems by combining GLP-1 medication with healthy lifestyle habits.

The effect appears to be greater than using medication alone or making lifestyle changes alone.

What GLP-1 medication is used for

GLP-1 medications are used, among other things, to treat type 2 diabetes and to help with weight loss.

The drugs mimic the hormone glucagon-like peptide-1, which plays a role in regulating blood sugar and affects digestion and the feeling of fullness after meals.

Why lifestyle is important

People with type 2 diabetes or overweight are often advised to adopt specific lifestyle habits to help manage the condition.

These recommendations are also given to patients who are prescribed GLP-1 medication.

Healthy habits can support treatment

Habits such as a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and avoiding smoking can help stabilize blood sugar and support healthy weight loss.

Heart problems

People with diabetes have a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular disease.

According to the American Diabetes Association, the risk of heart disease or stroke is about twice as high compared with people without diabetes.

Analyzing data from more than 98,000 people

Researchers analyzed data from 98,261 people with type 2 diabetes who participated in the U.S. Veterans Affairs Million Veteran Program between January 2011 and September 2023.

No previous serious heart problems

All participants in the study had no prior history of heart attack, stroke, or advanced chronic kidney disease.

More than 13,000 participants used GLP-1 medication

Photo: Matt Fowler KC / Shutterstock.com

Among the participants in the study, more than 13,000 people used GLP-1 medication during the observation period.

Eight healthy lifestyle habits

The study focused on eight lifestyle habits: a high-quality diet, physical activity, not smoking, good sleep, limited alcohol consumption, effective stress management, social relationships, and the absence of opioid misuse.

Plant-based diet index

Researchers used a plant-based diet index to evaluate the participants’ diets.

The index rewards a high intake of healthy plant-based foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes.

Combination of medication and healthy habits showed the greatest effect

The results showed that combining GLP-1 medication with several healthy habits was associated with a greater reduction in the risk of serious heart problems than either medication or lifestyle changes alone.

43 percent lower risk

Participants who used GLP-1 medication while also following six to eight of the healthy habits had a 43 percent lower risk of major cardiovascular events compared with people who did not use the medication and followed three or fewer healthy habits.

Lifestyle alone also had a strong impact

People who followed all eight healthy habits had a 60 percent lower risk of serious heart problems compared with those who followed only one or none.

Medication alone also reduced the risk

The use of GLP-1 medication by itself was associated with a 16 percent lower risk of serious heart problems compared with people who did not use the medication.

Physical activity and quitting smoking

According to the researchers, all eight habits are important, but physical activity, not smoking, and the absence of substance misuse appear to play particularly significant roles in reducing risk.

The results highlight the importance of lifestyle

The researchers emphasize that healthy lifestyle habits continue to play a central role in treatment and disease prevention, even in an era of effective medical therapies.

The study also has limitations

Most participants in the study were white male veterans, meaning the results may not necessarily be directly applicable to the broader population.

Lifestyle changes remain essential

The researchers believe the findings highlight the importance of initiatives that promote healthy eating, physical activity, good sleep, stress management, and strong social connections, even as new medications continue to be developed.

Sources: Medical News Today, The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, and American Diabetes Association.

1...919293...371 Page 92 of 371

Gut health affects the whole body

Probiotics add beneficial bacteria

Difference between probiotics and prebiotics

Diet is often better than supplements

Yogurt highlighted as the best choice

Live bacteria strengthen gut balance

Probiotics can improve digestion

Beneficial bacteria in yogurt

The bacteria support the immune system

Yogurt can reduce bloating

Other health benefits

Alternatives to traditional yogurt

Sugary yogurt should be avoided

Several foods contain probiotics

A balanced diet is important

Too much can cause discomfort

Familiar dietary advice

A new focus

A widespread problem

The muscles around the knee

Doctors’ recommendations

The study

The results

When the brain checks the body

The theory of “prodromal dreams”

Patterns researchers have noticed

Vitamin C

Potassium

Folate

It can support the immune system

Fluid balance

Extra nutrients

Concentrated nutrients

Almost no dietary fiber

Blood sugar may rise quickly

Extra calories

It can affect the teeth

Lower risk of diseases

It should be consumed in moderation

Widely used supplement

Different effects

Study of children

Connection in the data

Uncertain effect on the gut

Sugar may play a role

Other fermented foods

What GLP-1 medication is used for

Why lifestyle is important

Healthy habits can support treatment

Heart problems

Analyzing data from more than 98,000 people

No previous serious heart problems

More than 13,000 participants used GLP-1 medication

Eight healthy lifestyle habits

Plant-based diet index

Combination of medication and healthy habits showed the greatest effect

43 percent lower risk

Lifestyle alone also had a strong impact

Medication alone also reduced the risk

Physical activity and quitting smoking

The results highlight the importance of lifestyle

The study also has limitations

Lifestyle changes remain essential

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