Discover the Health Benefits of Engaging in the Arts
Miguel Riopa/AFP via Getty Images
Engaging in the arts is not merely a delightful hobby; it significantly contributes to improved health. Recent groundbreaking research indicates that participation in creative activities correlates with decreased inflammation and positive changes in brain health-related proteins.
“We uncovered several new biological pathways that clarify the connection between art and beneficial health outcomes,” stated Daisy Fancourt from University College London.
Over the past decade, accumulating evidence highlights the substantial health benefits associated with participation in music, theater, and various creative arts. For instance, dance programs are shown to aid Parkinson’s patients, while art activities can lead to a lower risk of depression.
Previous studies also indicate that individuals engaged in the arts tend to exhibit lower inflammation levels, thereby enhancing both physical and mental health. However, prior research often focused solely on a few blood markers, limiting its utility. With advancements in technology, it is now possible to analyze hundreds of proteins, providing comprehensive insights into how behavior influences biology.
Utilizing this advanced methodology, Fancourt and colleagues examined data from approximately 6,000 British adults by analyzing one-time blood samples to explore how involvement in the arts links to 184 proteins associated with bodily and brain systems.
The researchers measured the frequency and variety of artistic activities, discovering that increased participation in arts such as dancing, singing, reading, photography, crafting, and attending performances correlates with significant changes in 18 specific proteins.
Tracking data also revealed that individuals actively engaged in the arts exhibited a reduced future risk for several health issues, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, depression, and dementia. Notably, the changes in proteins could explain between 16% and 38% of the link between artistic engagement and improved health, even after adjusting for factors like income and education.
Some affected proteins are crucial for metabolism, while others support brain cell health. Certain proteins also activate pathways that enhance anti-inflammatory processes. “Engaging in the arts may stimulate a rebalancing of the inflammatory system,” notes Fancourt.
“The benefits of engaging in arts activities on health and well-being have long been acknowledged, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear,” commented Darryl O’Connor from the University of Leeds, UK. While the findings need replication in different populations, he emphasizes that the study presents exciting new avenues for exploring how behavior impacts health.
Researchers from King’s College London, including Carmine Pariante, highlight that these findings align with established protective effects of artistic engagement on mental and physical health. However, the current study offers only a temporal snapshot, leaving questions about the duration of exposure to art needed to yield protective benefits.
Fancourt suggested that the next logical step would be to conduct causal studies, monitoring specific proteins before and after individuals participate in various artistic activities.
Understanding Body Fat: The Good, The Bad, and The Complex
Dr. Ray Clark & Mervyn Goff/Science Photo Library
Body fat is often misunderstood as merely a passive energy reserve. However, emerging research indicates it plays a crucial role in our overall health, providing insights into its intricate functions.
Fat comes in various forms, including white fat, which stores energy and releases hormones influencing metabolism; brown fat, known for generating heat; and beige fat, which activates thermogenesis under specific conditions. The location of these fats matters significantly. While subcutaneous fat is usually harmless, visceral fat, located deep in the abdomen, is closely linked to inflammation, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
Recent studies further clarify this dynamic, suggesting that adipose tissue is actively involved in regulating blood pressure and managing immune responses in crucial areas of the body.
A study led by Jutta Jarkanen at Karolinska University Hospital in Stockholm examined the cellular structure of visceral fat in various abdominal locations. Their findings highlighted that epiploic fat, which envelops the large intestine, is abundant in immune cells and specialized fat cells producing inflammatory proteins tied to immune activation. They discovered that microbial products from the intestines trigger these fat cells to activate nearby immune responses.
“Our research indicates that fat deposits are specialized based on their anatomical position, particularly the fat adjacent to the intestine, which is tailored for immune interactions,” Jarkanen noted.
Although the study included obese participants, everyone has some visceral fat around their intestines, suggesting that epiploic fat fulfills a fundamental role irrespective of body weight.
“The gut continually encounters nutrients, microbial elements, and environmental substances,” Jarkanen explained. “Having adjacent adipose tissue to sense, respond, and manage immune reactions adds an extra layer of defense.”
However, obesity can lead to chronic overactivity in this system. Overeating, excessive consumption of particular foods, and specific bacterial compositions in the gut microbiome can lead to persistent immune signaling in intestinal fats, contributing to low-grade inflammation linked with metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes and obesity.
A follow-up study unveiled yet another surprising function of fat: its role in regulating blood pressure. Marcia Koenen and colleagues at Rockefeller University aimed to understand the connection between obesity, characterized by excessive white fat, and high blood pressure, while noting that brown and beige fats seem to offer protection.
The team investigated perivascular adipose tissue, a beige fat-rich layer encasing blood vessels. In genetically modified mice that lack beige fat, their blood vessels exhibited stiffness and overreacted to daily hormonal signals that constrict arteries, resulting in elevated blood pressure.
The researchers identified that the enzyme QSOX1, secreted by dysfunctional fat cells, caused this adverse effect. Blocking this enzyme prevented vascular damage and normalized blood pressure in the mice, independent of their body weight. “This emphasizes the importance of inter-organ communication in understanding complex diseases such as hypertension,” emphasized Koenen.
“This study sheds light on the often-underestimated roles of brown and beige fat,” noted Christy Townsend from Ohio State University. Though human perivascular adipose tissue is proportionately less substantial than in mice, it remains physiologically relevant. “This research highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of fat’s effect on health beyond overall fat mass and BMI.”
Instead of merely focusing on fat reduction, these findings point towards future therapies aimed at preserving or restoring the advantageous functions of fat by targeting specific fat deposits, enhancing immune-fat communication, and maintaining healthy beige fat activity. However, comprehensive research is necessary before these findings can be applied clinically.
Together, these studies position adipose tissue as an active, functionally diverse system implicated in numerous aspects of human physiology. “When I began working in this field in the late 1990s, the belief was that fat was just a sack of cells storing extra nutrients,” stated Paul Cohen, also from Rockefeller University, who participated in the second study. “These investigations reveal a shift in our understanding of fat as not just a single cell type, but a complex tissue composed of various cell types engaged in diverse processes, extending far beyond simple nutrient storage and mobilization.”
This year will be a transformative journey of self-care inspired by the stars.
It has been 20 years since I first experienced profound envy witnessing someone’s ability to navigate the night sky. Back in 2006, while covering a conference in La Jolla, California, I had the chance to meet renowned astrophysicist Neil de Grasse Tyson. One evening, at dinner under the stars, he dazzled us with a laser pointer, mapping out constellations effortlessly. That moment ignited a promise to become a stargazer upon returning home.
Yet, I haven’t fully embraced my stargazing journey. Beyond the familiar Orion and the Big Dipper lies a vast universe I have yet to explore. One could attribute this to urban streetlights, but perhaps it’s also the realization that a love for the night sky is often nurtured during childhood. Those fortunate enough to be introduced to stargazing, typically by family, tend to develop a lasting connection and report better mental health.
Connecting with the universe promotes well-being. Research indicates that this connection is associated with numerous positive mental health benefits. In fact, studies suggest it even encourages generosity.
The term Noctocaelador, from Latin meaning “night,” “sky,” and “worship,” was coined by William Kelly in 2003 to describe the joy and mental health benefits of stargazing. Participants of his study expressed sentiments like, “I truly enjoyed gazing at the night sky” and “Stargazing uplifted my mood.”
This aligns with recent findings on Gen Z’s affinity for the night sky. Holly Brenna McNiven’s research indicates that many in this generation report a love for stargazing, attributing it to positive aspects of well-being tied to early experiences with astronomy.Her master’s project at Trinity Saint David’s, University of Wales, suggests that many young people cultivate their stargazing passion through shared experiences, particularly with familial connections.
Regrettably, I missed out on fostering a love for the stars in my early years, but it’s not too late. Nowadays, we don’t always need clear and dark nights to appreciate the universe. With the rising levels of light pollution, it’s reassuring that we can still connect through various resources. Who needs a clear sky when digital platforms like TikTok have unveiled a vibrant community of astronomers, affectionately termed “SpaceTok”?
While most users are from Gen Z, I remain grateful that even during cloudy nights, I can explore the universe through literature. Brian May’s new book, Endless Islands, offers stunning stereoscopic photographs of galaxies. For Christmas, I received Nigel Henbest’s Stargazing 2026, a comprehensive guide to this year’s celestial highlights. With a laser pointer in hand, I’ll soon be navigating the stars as effortlessly as Tyson.
Michael Brooks is a science journalist and author with a focus on physics.
Is your windowsill brimming with seeds for the upcoming gardening season? Indoor seedlings might flourish in ideal conditions, but they often become tall and leggy, making them prone to falling over shortly after germination. Can an age-old technique help sustain your gardening ambitions into 2026? Let’s explore why nurturing your plants with gentle touches is not as far-fetched as it sounds.
Plant propagation requires a delicate balance. Starting seedlings in controlled environments helps shield them from severe temperatures, pests, and diseases, thus boosting their early survival. However, this sheltered growth can lead to issues like yellowing, which compromises their strength. Known vulnerabilities can make indoor plants fragile, especially when exposed to outdoor elements. With billions in the agricultural sector riding on plant health, commercial growers have long sought effective solutions.
Chemical growth regulators provide one approach, fostering stronger plants. Yet, many of these products aren’t available for home gardeners. Conversely, studies reveal that mechanical stimulation—such as simply rubbing or stroking seedlings—can effectively combat yellowing. This response is attributed to a process known as thigmomorphogenesis, where plants adjust their growth in response to physical touches and environmental forces. Research shows that such interactions promote thicker, more supportive stems and overall compact growth. Many studies have highlighted that mechanically stimulated seedlings are structurally superior and more resilient against challenges like pests and drought.
This effect has been observed in various popular garden plants, from tomatoes and lettuce to petunias and marigolds. Experiments utilizing electric fans, vibrating benches, and even gentle brushing have demonstrated that these methods can significantly reduce stem elongation by 20-50%.
The key takeaway? While commercial growers have employed machines for this form of stimulation since the 1970s, it’s easy to replicate at home. Just ten gentle strokes on a seedling once a day can yield benefits. You can use an old envelope, a soft feather duster, or even your hand. It takes only 10 seconds daily, and the potential rewards are substantial—all supported by solid scientific research.
James Wong is a botanist and science writer specializing in food crops, conservation, and environmental issues. Trained at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, London, he maintains over 500 houseplants in his compact apartment. Connect with him on X and Instagram @botanygeek.
Researchers at King’s College London have found significant connections between theobromine, a widely-known plant compound from cocoa, and measures of epigenetic aging, indicating that theobromine may be associated with human aging.
third others. We illustrate that the documented beneficial relationship between health and aging and theobromine intake extends to the molecular epigenetic level in humans. Image credit: Sci.News.
“Coffee and cocoa are popular foods and are linked to lower rates of cardiovascular disease and mortality,” commented lead author Ramy Saad, Ph.D., along with colleagues.
“They contain several significant alkaloids, including theobromine, caffeine, theophylline, paraxanthine, and 7-methylxanthine.”
“Theobromine and 7-methylxanthine are partial metabolites of caffeine, yet both exist in much greater concentrations in cocoa as unprocessed primary metabolites.”
“Theobromine has long been associated with various health benefits and aging. For instance, studies in model organisms have confirmed a link between theobromine and extended lifespan.”
“Moreover, various human cohort observational studies have reported clear links between theobromine intake and multiple aspects of improved health.”
“Nonetheless, the exact impacts of theobromine on health and aging remain unclear, and the molecular pathways behind these effects are largely unknown.”
In the research, scientists analyzed the levels of theobromine in individuals’ blood against blood-based indicators of biological aging.
Across two European cohorts, which included 509 participants from TwinsUK and 1,160 from KORA, individuals with elevated levels of theobromine in their bloodstream exhibited a lower biological age compared to their chronological age.
“Our research discovered a correlation between key components in dark chocolate and prolonged youthfulness,” stated the study’s senior author, Professor Jordana Bell.
“While we’re not advocating for increased dark chocolate consumption, this study sheds light on how common foods might offer insights into healthier, longer living.”
The researchers also explored whether other metabolites found in cocoa and coffee reflected similar associations.
However, they concluded that the effect appears to be unique to theobromine.
Two different assessments were used to measure the biological age of participants.
Some researchers examined chemical alterations in DNA to estimate an individual’s aging rate.
Other scientists assessed the length of telomeres, the protective end caps of chromosomes, as telomere shortening is linked with aging and age-associated diseases.
“This is a fascinating finding, and the next crucial question is: What drives this association, and how can we further explore the interactions between dietary metabolites and the epigenome?” Dr. Saad remarked.
“This strategy could unveil significant discoveries about both common and rare diseases, as related to aging and beyond.”
“This study has uncovered another molecular mechanism through which natural compounds present in cocoa promote health,” noted study co-author Dr. Ricardo Costeira.
“Although further investigation is warranted, the findings highlight the importance of population-level analysis in the fields of aging and genetics.”
of findings Published in a journal on December 10th aging.
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Ramy Third others. Theobromine is associated with delayed epigenetic aging. aging published online on December 10, 2025. doi: 10.18632/aging.206344
feedback A weekly column filled with strange stories, unbelievable advertising claims, and puzzling instructions.
An amazing year
To be new scientist Readers know that yearly summaries are prepared weeks beforehand. This specific recap was written on December 1st, just as Feedback was gearing up to avoid hearing Wham’s last christmas for 24 days. I’m also trying to persuade Feedback Junior to choose his main present. Any absurd events that occurred after that date will have to wait until the next year.
Indeed, 2025 offered a wealth of topics that intrigued Feedback. We encountered ludicrous ideas, such as the proposition to detonate the ocean floor to combat climate change, which went directly into our “not recommended” list. There were also endeavors to create particularly annoying robots, including an electric arm that faked handing you an ice cream cone, only for it to vanish in various amusing ways at the last moment. Unsurprisingly, people were distrustful.
To impose some structure on this chaos, we are introducing the 2025 End of Year Awards for Feedback. We will name it Backseas unless someone provides a better suggestion. The judges (that’s us) selected the categories and winners through a highly rigorous process that did not involve post-its or darts.
Best Scientific Acronyms
Feedback dreams of seeing a study that investigates the amount of time and resources societies dedicate to crafting imaginative or forced abbreviations. This could rival two seasons of influenza and a World Cup for global productivity.
After discovering a “machine learning model that can predict the taste of chemicals based on their molecular structure” labeled Flavor Analysis and Recognition Transformer (FART), Feedback invited contributions on similar topics. We were taken aback by the flood of acronyms that followed, from a hydrographic research project called Management of River Discharges to the Marine Domain (MORDOR) to two instruments on NASA’s Mars rover Perseverance called Raman and Luminescence Scanning of Habitable Environments for Organics and Chemicals (SHERLOC) and another pair known as Wide Angle Terrain Sensor for Operations and Engineering (WATSON). However, one may be pushing the envelope.
Regardless, the judges (us) unanimously awarded the prize to a geneticist who devised “a method for estimating mutation rates and recent demographic history from very large samples.” They termed it “diffusion of rare elements in large variation inventories,” or DR EVIL. Quite clever.
The Best Old and New Technology
One persistent issue in today’s society is people who believe they’ve invented something novel when they’ve merely rebranded something existing. Here, there was a clear winner. Ugmonk has developed a “minimalist, paper-based to-do manager.” This product is designed to take the place of your online task management system, allowing you to work offline free from social media distractions. It consists of a few index cards placed atop a wooden block.
Best Extrapolation
Uncontested: Demographers David Swanson and Jeff Tyman produced a paper that noted a slight decrease in human fertility between 2019 and 2024 before extrapolating it all the way to human extinction by 2339 (or 2415 if they obtain an additional year of data).
Maximizing AI’s Potential
The challenge here was variety. An overwhelming amount of choices. We almost awarded this to Anthropic, which had the AI Claude operate a vending machine in their office. Claude first requested customers to deposit money into a fictitious bank account. Then it pretended to be a human in a blue blazer and red tie. However, since it was an in-house trial, it was disqualified.
Instead, this award goes to AI music. The most renowned fake AI band, Velvet Sundown, resembles the uncanny offspring of Coldplay and the Eagles. There’s an indescribable quality to this. After training on nearly all recorded music, the AI generates the most unremarkable form of music imaginable.
And Finally…
I’ll conclude with a silly and somewhat inappropriate tale. Time and again in 2025, Feedback found itself grappling with the Scunthorpe issue, which refers to how many innocent words can contain character strings that are offensive in certain contexts, causing complications for online moderation systems.
This realization began when we learned that Virgin Money’s chatbot objected to the term ‘virgin’. From there, we heard of a student who couldn’t create an email account due to his last name, Peacock, along with an incident that hindered researchers studying sperm whales.
However, our favorite story involved a bank’s computer server refusing to interact with a French-language server named after the Asterix character Petitsuitx because it contained the word “tits.” We appreciated this anecdote because a reader, Nick Brown, shared it with us, suggesting that banks utilizing such poorly constructed servers were likely headed for insolvency.
Have a story for Feedback?
You can send your article to Feedback at feedback@newscientist.com. Please include your home address. This week’s and previous feedback can be found on our website.
Upon arriving at the Buddhist retreat, Eli Sussman anticipated immersing himself in deep meditation. The Plum Village Monastery, located east of Bordeaux, France, was established by Thich Nhat Hanh, often called the “father of mindfulness.” Eager to explore, he challenged himself to a lengthy three-hour meditation session.
Afterward, he excitedly shared his achievement with a monk: “I felt like I was awaiting a shiny badge for my accomplishments,” Sussman reflects. The monk simply smiled and asked, “Three hours, you say? Why not try just three breaths? That’s truly all it takes to center yourself in the present.”
This intrigued Sussman, leading him to investigate whether brief mindfulness exercises could genuinely shift one’s mindset and induce significant changes in emotional health during his PhD studies in psychology at UC Berkeley.
The swift conclusion is affirmative. An increasing array of studies worldwide indicate that individuals who dedicate merely 20 seconds daily to a short routine report enduring feelings of peace and joy, lingering long after their session. These micro-practices, also referred to as micro-acts, may aid in enhancing physical health by interrupting cyclical negative thinking and soothing physiological stress responses.
Beyond the brief breathing techniques from Plum Village monks, research-backed interventions also encompass short writing tasks and self-compassion exercises aimed at nurturing gratitude, awe, and a sense of direction in life.
Sussman’s book, micro practice, is set to launch next year, likely becoming a trending term in 2026. Meanwhile, several strategies are already available to instill tranquility during the holiday season.
Even small actions can yield significant outcomes
His findings draw from decades of research focusing on interventions inspired by both Eastern and Western spiritual practices. These include meditative practices like mindfulness meditation, engaging in Qigong—a Chinese discipline blending deep breaths with gentle movements—and yoga, along with introspective exercises such as gratitude journals. Evidence suggests that all these practices bolster mental well-being and mitigate the risks of conditions like depression and anxiety.
However, the precise “dosage” necessary for beneficial effects is less definitive; some studies imply that too much exposure may be counterproductive. A meta-analysis by Willoughby Britton, a professor of psychiatry and human behavior at Brown University, revealed that individuals meditating for only 5 to 10 minutes two to three times a week had better sleep quality than those engaging in meditation for over 30 minutes daily, five days a week. This could be attributed to the brain remaining alert during extended meditation, making subsequent sleep challenging.
A 2021 study directly compared short-term and long-term stress relief outcomes from mindfulness practices, led by Sarah Strohmeyer and colleagues at Canterbury Christ Church University in the UK. Participants attended four sessions over two weeks, with one group meditating for five minutes, another for 20 minutes, and a control group listening to an audiobook.
Concluding the two weeks, both meditation groups reported diminished anxiety and depression symptoms compared to the audiobook group. Notably, the shorter session participants experienced less stress than those who meditated longer.
“
Brief interventions may be particularly beneficial during stressful periods. “
This difference in outcomes can be partly attributed to task difficulty. Longer sessions increased the challenge of managing a wandering mind, potentially leading to feelings of inadequacy. Conversely, participants in shorter sessions often reported pleasant surprises from their experiences. One participant mentioned previously believing that mindfulness required considerable time and effort, but the experiments indicated effectiveness even in five minutes. This participant felt more at ease following the session, a tranquility that persisted during the day.
Health psychologists assert that simple practices can be particularly advantageous during stressful periods. Andreas Schwertfeger and colleagues at the University of Graz reiterated this earlier this year.
In their research, participants wore portable monitors measuring heart rate variability (HRV), an indicator of physiological stress levels. Generally, higher HRV suggests relaxation as the heart adapts to bodily demands, whereas lower HRV indicates a readiness to confront threats. Throughout several days, participants received prompts to focus on their breathing for one minute.
Despite the brief duration, the intervention proved profoundly effective, showing noticeable calming effects on both mind and body through self-reported questionnaires and HRV records taken right after mindful moments. This effect was most prominent when participants were under significant stress. “I felt less overwhelmed and more secure,” remarked Schwertfeger, describing this as a “just-in-time adaptive intervention.”
Pathways to self-compassion
Though Sussman could have adhered strictly to mindfulness in developing his micro-practices, a question from his doctoral advisor shifted his focus: What does the world need most at this moment? He gravitated towards self-compassion, a crucial element in Buddhist philosophy that has gained prominence in psychology recently. It comprises three key components: treating oneself kindly rather than harshly, recognizing that suffering is a universal experience connecting us, and observing our negative emotions without judgment.
Studies have demonstrated that cultivating self-compassion can be achieved through focused meditation on these principles. Yet, akin to many mindfulness practices, these programs often necessitate significant dedication.
Inspired by his time at Plum Village Abbey, Sussman pondered whether a few conscious breaths could change our perspective. He and his colleagues enlisted 135 participants, showing them a 20-second video urging reflection on a recent upsetting event, like a mistake or disappointment. The video suggested, “With a nurturing touch, place one hand on your abdomen and the other on your heart, enveloping yourself in kindness and warmth,” followed by, “Consider: ‘How can I be a friend to myself in this situation?’
Just a few minutes of mindfulness can create a big impact
Randy Farris/Getty Images
Half of the participants were instructed to engage with this exercise daily for a month, while the control group practiced finger-tapping for 20 seconds each day. As is typical in month-long interventions, some participants discontinued without recognizing benefits. However, for those who consistently practiced, micro-practices resulted in significantly lower stress levels compared to those engaged in finger-tapping.
It is not surprising that micro-practices required ongoing practice, according to Sussman. He references a recent analysis of data from the popular app Headspace, which indicated that frequency of practice holds greater importance than duration in reducing stress. “Consistency outweighs length for effectiveness,” he states.
Drawing a parallel to nurturing plants, Sussman remarks, “It’s more effective to provide small amounts of water daily than to saturate the soil once a month.” This highlights the importance of engaging in enjoyable activities. “Your strongest practices are those you can consistently implement,” he asserts.
The Big Joy Project
If mindfulness or self-compassion isn’t appealing, many alternatives exist. The Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley offers numerous online resources detailing quick interventions aimed at enhancing well-being, many taking only a few minutes to enact.
A few years back, Emiliana Simon Thomas and her colleagues initiated the Big Joy Project, compiling easily accessible practices requiring minimal time commitment, termed “micro-acts.” These include brief reflection exercises on distressing incidents and identifying three positive outcomes, listing what evokes gratitude, and watching uplifting nature videos, along with moments of reflecting on personal values.
“We’ve termed them ‘micro-acts’ to ensure people can incorporate them into their busy lives without feeling overwhelmed,” comments Simon-Thomas. The initiative encouraged individuals to try one micro-act daily for a week, gathering well-being metrics via surveys at the beginning and conclusion of the week.
Promotion for the project included film screenings and outreach around Mission: Joy, showcasing the bond between the 14th Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Between 2022 and 2024, 17,598 participants contributed substantial data for analysis by Simon-Thomas and her team. Consequently, results published this year illustrated the efficacy of these micro-acts, with participants reporting lower stress levels and improved overall well-being compared to their initial assessments. They expressed greater agreement with sentiments like “I believe my life has purpose” and “I feel fulfilled overall.”
While micro-acts may initially appear as luxuries for those with comfortable lives, their greatest impact was realized among individuals from traditionally disadvantaged backgrounds, including those experiencing financial struggles.
Nonetheless, researchers remain cautious about portraying these interventions as cures. “Brushing your teeth won’t fix everything,” Sussman suggests. “Moreover, micro-practices are not substitutes for therapy or medication.”
Nor do they replace extended meditation practices, he explains. Lengthy meditation sessions, lasting 20 to 40 minutes, might yield long-term neurological changes linked to enhanced emotional regulation. Occasionally, as experienced during a Buddhist retreat, engaging in a three-hour session can offer profound spiritual insights.
The intention behind these micro-practices is merely to introduce brief moments of tranquility and joy in our lives when out-of-control thoughts threaten our health and well-being.
David Robson is the author of The Law of Connection: 13 Social Strategies That Will Change Your Life, now available in paperback.
Individuals enjoying a swim in London’s Beckenham Place Park Lake during January
AMcCulloch / Alamy
It’s 8am, and I find myself at the edge of my local lake in Beckenham Place Park, London, with the early morning sun just starting to break through the trees. A veil of mist rises from the chilled waters, wrapping everything in silence. Even the ducks seem to shy away from the frigid water today. Yet, my friend and I, clad in swimsuits despite the single-digit water temperature, brace ourselves. The initial plunge is startling, but once you acclimate and begin gliding through the water, it feels like a rebirth.
In recent years, I’ve successfully turned numerous friends into proponents of cold water swimming. My mantra is straightforward: nothing boosts mental health more effectively. Until recently, my experience was mostly just personal testimony. However, with the rise of ice baths, cold showers, and winter swimming, researchers are starting to uncover how these frosty immersions influence our brain chemistry. It’s becoming clear that these weekly dips may be making lasting changes to my brain.
I’m certainly not alone in my fondness for cold water. 6.8 million individuals in the UK regularly swim outdoors, whether in open waters or chilly pools that remain cool throughout much of the year. This trend aligns with emerging evidence indicating that consistent cold water exposure can alleviate fatigue, decrease depression symptoms, and enhance overall well-being, despite its potential dangers like hypothermia and waterborne illnesses.
For instance, a study involving 36 participants who undertook a four-month open water swimming program, four days a week during winter, demonstrated a marked reduction in tension and fatigue when compared to a non-swimming control group that maintained typical city life. The swimmers reported heightened energy levels, better memory retention, and improved mood.
A recent single immersion also proved effective. Individuals who stood chest-deep in seawater at around 13.6 degrees Celsius (56.5 degrees Fahrenheit) for 20 minutes reported less negativity and an increase in energy and self-esteem relative to those who remained on the shoreline.
Cold exposure affects several physiological mechanisms, including the heart and immune system, often leading to enhanced immune function which reduces the incidence of colds and cardiovascular risks. What intrigues me most are the neurological impacts.
For example, immersing your half-clad body in frigid water can uplift your mood by triggering an acute stress response. Anyone who has leapt into icy waters knows this feeling. The brain manages the sudden release of adrenaline, dopamine, and cortisol—chemicals that induce a high similar to that experienced post-exercise.
This reaction serves as an evolutionary survival tactic. Exposure to extreme cold can be life-threatening, which is why this “cold shock response” harnesses stress mechanisms to offer bursts of energy, sharpen alertness, minimize pain, and avert danger.
This is also the reason swimming in cold water might be overwhelming. In unusual cases, it can provoke rapid breathing and could lead to cardiac incidents if not approached with caution. However, if you intentionally prompt this reaction in a safe, calm setting with trained supervision, the benefits can be enjoyed while minimizing risks. Deficiencies in these neurotransmitters are critical in conditions like depression and anxiety, making the artificial elevation of these chemicals a possible explanation for the fleeting mood boost many experience after swimming.
‘Cold shock response’ boosts alertness and uplifts mood
David Trood/Getty Images
There may also be long-term benefits. Over time, the body adapts to the stress of cold water immersion, leading to shifts in the stress response. A study found that participants swimming in cold water three times a week for 12 weeks experienced a reduction in cortisol levels by the end, indicating an enhanced ability to cope with stress. Chronically high stress hormones can lead to inflammation, linked to various diseases and accelerated aging; thus, managing this response may yield long-term health advantages. A recent review of cold water swimming research suggests that this adaptation could provide expansive mental health benefits, like aiding anxiety management.
Additionally, our cold shock response triggers the release of proteins, such as RNA-binding motif 3, which assist in synaptic repair (the links between neurons). In lab mice prone to a form of Alzheimer’s, increased levels of this protein have been found to shield against nerve damage. This has led some researchers to propose that regular cold water swimming could provide lasting neuroprotective effects in humans, although this remains unverified.
Cold water immersion also wields significant psychological power. Enduring challenging conditions—even the most avid cold water enthusiasts can face trials during icy days—can foster resilience and a sense of mastery, popularly referred to as grit. Coupled with the social elements inherent in outdoor swimming, this mirrors some aspects of treatments like antidepressants and therapy. In fact, emerging evidence indicates that cold water swimming can alleviate depression symptoms as a complementary treatment. In many instances, this can occur without reliance on medication.
Interestingly, researchers are beginning direct investigations into cold water swimming’s effects on the brain. For example, Alla Yankovskaya and her team at Bournemouth University recently scanned the brains of 33 individuals not accustomed to cold water swimming before and after a five-minute full-body immersion in water at 20°C (68°F). This marked the first time researchers obtained real-time data on the interplay of brain networks post-cold exposure.
They uncovered advantageous changes in connectivity between various crucial brain regions, particularly linking the medial prefrontal cortex and the parietal cortex, areas tied to emotional regulation, focus, and decision-making. Activity in these regions is often disrupted in individuals suffering from depression and anxiety, possibly underscoring why cold water swimming acts as a therapeutic modality.
However, not everything is clear cut and positive. In rare instances, temporary memory loss may arise from cold water swimming, typically observed in older individuals, although the cause remains elusive. Besides, hypothermia poses a risk for lengthy aquatic adventures. Nevertheless, it’s comforting to know that the mental clarity and elevated mood observed after a swim are substantiated by scientific evidence, and maintaining such benefits might even guard against age-related diseases.
Recently, I learned that a sauna was being constructed lakeside, prompting curiosity about the additional benefits heat therapy might offer alongside swimming. I came across studies suggesting heat and cold can induce precise alterations in brain wave patterns, potentially yielding the most significant cognitive benefits of all. This is certainly a topic I aim to delve into in future articles—all in the name of science, of course, as I embark on a personal investigation of the UK’s premier saunas.
In the meantime, if you find yourself near a lake or the ocean this winter, gather your courage and dip your toes in. It may be chilly, but your brain will appreciate it.
Swimming in waters below 15°C (59°F) should always be conducted with a partner, flotation device, bright headwear, and full awareness of the risks involved and how to mitigate them. For more information on water safety pertaining to cold water swimming, visit the Royal Lifeboat Society. Resources are available.
Traditionally, black cumin seeds have been esteemed for their health benefits. A recent study examined their potential in alleviating symptoms related to obesity.
Ahmed et al. suggest that black cumin seeds (Nigella sativa) could be a promising natural remedy for obesity-related issues. Image credit: Andre Holz / CC BY-SA 3.0.
Nigella sativa, commonly known as black cumin, is a flowering plant in the Ranunculaceae family, widely used in traditional medicine across South Asia, North Africa, and the Mediterranean region.
Its healing properties are acknowledged in ancient medical systems like Unani, Ayurveda, and Tiv.
Rich in bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, and essential oils, black cumin seed and its oil demonstrate vast pharmacological potential.
Their diverse physicochemical properties make them valuable in both culinary and medicinal applications.
Studies with cell cultures and animals have shown the therapeutic benefits of black cumin and its active component thymoquinone, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, antitumor, immunomodulatory, and antiobesity effects.
To delve into these effects, Dr. Akiko Kojima Yuasa and colleagues from Osaka Metropolitan University conducted cell-based experiments and human clinical trials.
In the clinical trials, participants who ingested 5g of black cumin seed powder (around 1 tablespoon) daily for 8 weeks exhibited notable decreases in blood triglyceride levels, LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, and total cholesterol. Moreover, HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels saw an increase.
This improved blood lipid profile is linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and premature mortality.
The research team also performed cell experiments to clarify the mechanisms at play.
They discovered that black cumin seed extract inhibits adipogenesis (the formation and maturation of fat cells) by preventing lipid droplet accumulation and the differentiation process.
Dr. Yuasa Kojima remarked, “This study strongly indicates that black cumin seeds serve as a functional food in the prevention of obesity and lifestyle-related diseases.”
“We were thrilled to effectively demonstrate the significant blood lipid-lowering effects of black cumin in our human clinical trials.”
“We aspire to conduct long-term, extensive clinical trials to further investigate the effects of black cumin on metabolism.”
“We are particularly keen on exploring insulin resistance in diabetes and its influence on inflammatory markers.”
This study was published in the journal Food Science and Nutrition.
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Shamima Ahmed et al. 2025. Black Cumin Seed (Nigella sativa) 3T3-L1 exhibits anti-adipogenic effects in cellular models and hypolipidemic properties in humans. Food Science and Nutrition 13 (9): e70888; doi: 10.1002/fsn3.70888
Exercise offers substantial advantages for heart health
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For men over 50, engaging in more than twice the exercise as women may be necessary to achieve equivalent heart health benefits. Data analysis from activity trackers indicated that this demographic requires almost nine hours of moderate-to-vigorous activities, such as brisk walking or cycling, each week to lower their risk of coronary heart disease by 30%.
In comparison, women only need around four hours to achieve the same reduction.
Researchers had long speculated that women might experience greater heart benefits from exercise than men, based on self-reported data, although such figures can be misleading.
To address this issue, Chen Jiajing and colleagues at Xiamen University in China utilized data from wrist-worn activity monitors sourced from the British Biobank study, correlated with participants’ health records over an eight-year span.
The team first evaluated data from 80,243 adults, averaging 61 years in age and with no previous history of coronary heart disease. Women achieving at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise weekly had a 22% reduced risk of developing coronary heart disease, while men saw only a 17% reduction with the same exercise commitment.
To reach a 30% risk reduction, even greater physical activity was required. There was a notable gender disparity in this regard, with women needing to exercise 250 minutes and men needing 530 minutes.
The team next examined 5,169 participants already diagnosed with coronary heart disease, with an average age of 67, and two-thirds being male. Women who engaged in 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise per week were 70% less likely to die from any cause in the subsequent eight years compared to less active women. Conversely, men who completed the same amount of exercise only experienced a 20% lower likelihood of death than their less active counterparts.
“This isn’t bad news for men, but it’s important to recognize,” says Nir Einon from Monash University, Australia. “With this knowledge, men can strive to improve and exercise more. It’s encouraging for busy women, yet we must not forget that women also need to remain active.”
Chen and his team could not be reached for immediate comments, but the study suggests the discrepancy may be linked to hormonal factors, as higher estrogen levels can enhance fat metabolism during exercise. Eynon posited that biological differences could mean women utilize more breathing capacity, metabolic energy, and muscle strength to achieve comparable physical tasks as men.
The research is “robust”; Guidelines based on gender according to Ercilia DeFilippis at Columbia University in New York City, yet it primarily encompasses individuals who are about 93% white, affluent, and educated. DeFilippis highlighted that Black women typically experience poorer cardiovascular outcomes than their white counterparts, and social factors significantly impact their health and treatment adherence.
“It’s crucial to understand how these findings relate to more racially diverse and socio-economically disadvantaged groups in the future, given the severe impact of cardiovascular disease,” she emphasized.
Nonetheless, these findings for the older demographic indicate that remaining active in later years can offer considerable benefits, but exercise regimens should be customized according to age and physical capabilities, she reiterated. “It’s never too late to become active and move your body.”
On average, do you feel happier than 2.7 out of 10?? And does your country’s population score high as well? Good news! According to a new study, your community is happy enough to enjoy significant health advantages.
The study, published in Medical Frontier, found that countries with a Life Ladder score exceeding 2.7 out of 10—a global indicator of well-being—experienced markedly lower mortality rates from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like heart disease, cancer, asthma, and diabetes.
These findings indicate that while happiness and health are interconnected, nations need to progress beyond this well-being threshold for citizens to fully realize these benefits.
For each 1% rise in well-being above the 2.7 threshold, deaths from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) declined by an average of 0.43%. This implies that even slight increases in happiness can result in tangible health improvements.
In the United States, where the average happiness score stands at 6.96, such an increase could translate to nearly 11,500 fewer NCD-related deaths annually.
“Happiness is not merely a personal feeling; it serves as a measurable public health resource,” stated Yulia Iuga, a professor at the University of Alba Iulia in Romania and the study’s lead author.
The research analyzed well-being data from 123 countries collected between 2006 and 2021, comparing NCD mortality rates among adults aged 30 to 70.
Researchers employed the Life Ladder, a global tool for assessing subjective well-being that asks individuals to rate their lives on a scale of 0 to 10, where higher scores represent greater satisfaction.
“You can think of the life ladder as a straightforward happiness scale from zero to 10, with zero indicating the worst life and 10 the best,” Iuga clarified. “An appropriate descriptor for the 2.7 threshold could be ‘barely coping.'” Currently, only one nation falls below this benchmark: Afghanistan, with a happiness score of 1.36. Meanwhile, Finland leads the world ranking with a Life Ladder score of 7.74, followed by Denmark (7.52) and Iceland (7.51).
Many studies link health and happiness – Credit: Getty
Iuga noted that the findings suggest the benefits of happiness are likely to continue expanding indefinitely. “There’s no downside to being excessively happy,” she emphasized. “This study found no point at which the health benefits began to taper off or reverse.”
Iuga further indicated that policies aimed at enhancing population well-being can foster self-sustaining cycles of health improvement. In essence, better health boosts happiness, which in turn encourages further health gains.
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) have been labeled as “poison,” “addictive,” and “junk,” sparking justified concerns due to their links with various health issues, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, anxiety, and depression.
Their rapid rise has transformed the food landscape so drastically that what we consume today would be unrecognizable to even recent generations. From an evolutionary perspective, our bodies certainly aren’t equipped to handle them.
It’s no surprise that UPFs are a primary focus in efforts to tackle diet-related chronic diseases in the UK and US. However, we believe that the prevailing panic surrounding UPFs needs to be replaced with more thoughtful discussions. Not all ultra-processed items, like flavored yogurt or whole grain bread, deserve the same cautionary approach as sweets or sugary cereals. Being ultra-processed doesn’t inherently equate to being unhealthy; our perspective should be informed by previous scientific research.
As people consume more UPFs, their intake of saturated fat, sodium, and sugar tends to rise, while their intake of fiber, protein, and vital micronutrients declines. This trend runs counter to a healthy diet. Kevin’s recent research indicates that UPFs are often overeaten when they are energy-dense (more calories per bite) or particularly palatable (often combining nutrients such as sugars and fats that rarely coexist in nature).
On the other hand, Kevin’s research demonstrates that consuming UPF-rich meals that are energy-dense but less palatable can prevent weight gain. In fact, you could potentially lose weight even without intending to follow such a diet.
These insights hold significant implications, not only for individual choices but also for nutrition policies and regulations. Instead of broadly targeting all UPFs, efforts should concentrate on those that don’t meet healthy food standards. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is already heading in this direction, having recently introduced a definition of “healthy” food. This approach mirrors the UK’s nutritional profiling system, which emphasizes increasing the consumption of ingredients like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while restricting sugar, sodium, and saturated fat. By honing in on UPFs with high-calorie or palatability-inducing combinations of nutrients, we can better tackle products that significantly contribute to obesity and related health concerns.
Addressing these specific foods requires implementing public health policies akin to those used in reducing tobacco usage, such as marketing limitations, compulsory labeling, and robust taxation. Furthermore, we must promote policies that improve the convenience, affordability, and accessibility of healthy foods, while also encouraging companies to reformulate UPFs to be healthier. For instance, envision a pizza made with a frozen whole-wheat crust topped with vegetables.
Some UPFs already align with FDA standards for healthy foods (such as whole grain bread and yogurt), and these items are today free from such regulations. Many people rely on UPF pasta sauces, hummus, frozen meals, canned beans, and bread, which can easily fit into a healthy diet. Therefore, it is crucial to pinpoint which UPFs pose the greatest risk.
While UPFs are not going away anytime soon, their narrative is still evolving. Let’s move past the fear and toward informed coexistence by recognizing how certain UPFs can be detrimental and taking appropriate action.
IT is a popular topic of discussion over drinks and dinner. The debate centers on whether AI will take away jobs. So far, AI hasn’t had a fair shot at writing newspaper opinion columns, but I’m convinced there are aspects of my role that AI simply can’t replicate.
Except for now, it seems AI is making claims that it can. Recently, it was revealed that at least six respected publications had to retract articles they published, as they turned out to be fragments of fiction generated by AI and later submitted by someone under the name Margaux Blanchard. One such piece was a Wired article titled “Love in Love in Love Fold,” which humorously featured Minecraft as a wedding venue. This piece quoted a so-called “digital celebrity,” Jessica Foo, who appears to exist only in name. Another publication called Dispatch received a pitch from “Blanchard” about an imaginary neighbor’s town called Gravemont, which also does not exist.
In social conversations about topics like ChatGPT, I struggle against an overwhelming sense of frustration. I dislike ChatGPT deeply. This feeling qualifies as hatred for me, because it provokes a visceral response that’s just shy of real anger. I don’t find it just annoying or confusing—I genuinely despise it.
Thus, I’ve been digging into the reasons behind my aversion. There are valid points in favor of the AI era. For instance, a friend in the scientific field explained how AI accelerates the process of developing and testing hypotheses. Routine tasks become less time-consuming with AI’s assistance.
Nonetheless, there are numerous factors causing my trepidation. The environmental impact of using ChatGPT is well-documented, but for me, it’s not the most pressing concern. It troubles me that people are actively choosing technologies that threaten to make much of their work obsolete. For example, AI can distill complex information through Google searches, which is often too straightforward. Moreover, those leading the AI revolution often evoke the worst stereotypes of the typical tech bro.
This reactionary mindset is what I find particularly tragic. Trusting ChatGPT could weaken people’s mental capabilities. I firmly believe that creative imagination is like a muscle; it thrives on exercise. Recently, I assisted a 7-year-old with her creative writing assignment. When she needed to describe the forest, I asked her to imagine it and share what she saw. “We don’t need to do that,” she replied. “You can ask AI to do it.”
She indirectly suggested that we let ChatGPT help rewrite the article. Call me a Luddite if you must, but my reaction was one of dismay! Some challenges should be embraced! It’s beneficial for your brain to tackle them! I’ve read about people using ChatGPT for selecting dishes from a restaurant menu. Choosing what to eat is one of life’s small pleasures—why outsource that to a machine?
However, what troubles me most isn’t that. The gravest issue is how ChatGPT infiltrates people’s personal lives. There’s a barrage of suggestions on using it for workout plans, coding solutions, and document summarization. That’s fine, but hearing about its use for writing birthday cards, best man speeches, or farewell texts makes a part of my soul wither. As someone who writes for a living, I can’t accept this. These moments of expression need to be heartfelt and authentic, not perfectly crafted by algorithms.
My deep-seated dislike for ChatGPT stems from how willingly people transform meaningful interactions into mere transactions. For instance, whether it’s an email or a post, much of the value in receiving a message lies in knowing someone invested their time and thought into crafting it.
I fully recognize that 15 years down the line, I might look back on this article with amusement, adapting to AI-optimized workdays and AI-assisted tasks. I may find I was naive to worry at all! “I love you” could be easily programmed to mimic genuine affection! I also understand that my aversion to ChatGPT might render me less employable in the future, as I might lack the skills to harness AI effectively. That’s okay; I can retreat to the woods and live a less-than-ideal life. Yet, I will be unhappy in a tangible way, clinging to the ability to think independently.
A four-day workweek can significantly enhance both your mental and physical well-being, which in turn boosts your performance. This is supported by a recent study conducted by researchers from the US and Ireland.
The most exciting part? Research published in the journal Natural Human Behavior ensured that participants did not experience any wage cuts during the trial. This is crucial, as pay reductions can lead to increased stress. Participants managed to maintain their typical productivity levels while experiencing fewer sleep disturbances and reduced fatigue, thanks to an improved work environment.
“Globally, we observe trends of burnout, long hours, and inadequate personal time for employees and their families—this issue is prevalent not only in high-income countries but also in many low- and middle-income nations,” noted study author Wenfang, an associate professor of sociology at Boston University in the United States, as stated in BBC Science Focus.
“Our four-day workweek could serve as a potential solution for rethinking work structures that not only benefit employees but society at large.”
The sociologists from Boston College and University College Dublin conducted a six-month study involving approximately 3,000 employees from 141 organizations across Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK, and the US. Participants were offered reduced working hours ranging from 1-4 hours, 5-7 hours, or 8 hours.
Over the six-month period, employee wellness was evaluated across four categories: burnout, job satisfaction, overall psychological health, and physical health—key indicators of mortality risk.
Concurrently, they compared the outcomes for 285 employees from 12 companies that implemented reduced work hours with those who maintained the traditional workweek.
Significant health advantages were noted for employees in all three reduced-hour groups, particularly in terms of burnout and job satisfaction. Those who cut their working hours by eight saw the most substantial benefits. Furthermore, 90% of the companies that participated continued their four-day workweek after the trial concluded.
Globally, initiatives are underway to assess the effects of shorter workweeks on employee health and organizational productivity. One notable program is the 4DWG initiative, which has seen participation from 375 companies worldwide, advocating for a six-hour workday or a 20% reduction in total hours.
A potential limitation of this study is that it relied on companies volunteering to take part, primarily involving small businesses in English-speaking countries. Future studies aim to include government-sponsored trials for more randomized assessments.
Additionally, the researchers are exploring the environmental impact of a four-day workweek, as some employees have volunteered to monitor their carbon footprints.
Wen posits that both workers and employers could benefit environmentally, particularly with decreased pollution from commuting. She stated: “Countries adopting shorter working hours often report improved environmental outcomes.”
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About our experts
Wen Huang is an associate professor in the Department of Sociology at Boston College, USA. Her research has been published in journals such as Natural Human Behavior, Social Forces, Jobs and Occupations, and Advances in Life Course Research.
Farmers apply lime to pastures to enhance soil quality
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The centuries-old method of distributing crushed limestone on farmland can enhance crop yields by lowering soil acidity. While this practice is typically viewed as a contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, recent studies indicate that “liming” might actually assist in sequestering substantial amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
“Liming can either act as a carbon source or as a carbon sink. Empirical evidence suggests it serves as a fairly effective carbon sink,” says Noah Pranabsky from Yale University. This revelation could motivate the global spread of limestone on farms, although liming does not produce this effect universally.
Each year, millions of tons of crushed limestone spread across fields are classified as emission sources. This classification arises because when alkaline materials dissolve in acidic soils, a significant portion of its carbon is released as CO2. However, this assessment is not entirely accurate. According to Tim Jesper Souhoff, also from Yale, the situation is more complex.
Today’s soils are highly acidic, resulting from extensive fertilizer use and pollution from fossil fuel combustion. Consequently, various other alkaline minerals in the soil dissolve and liberate carbon, even in the absence of limestone. “These CO2 emissions will happen regardless of whether lime is added or not,” Suhrhoff explains, emphasizing that this alteration of acidity can lead to unintentional consequences.
Suhrhoff advocates for a more accurate evaluation of emissions from this practice, suggesting that scientists should analyze CO2 emitted versus captured in scenarios both with and without liming.
As an illustration of this method, Suhrhoff, Planavsky, and their team focused on the Mississippi River basin, a region that gathers runoff from the majority of U.S. farmland. They calculated the net carbon impact of limestone applications from 1900 to 2015 across the area.
The researchers estimated emissions from the soil while utilizing geochemical models to assess how liming alters soil acidity. They also compared their model results with direct observations of alkalinity in the Mississippi, where limestone reacts with carbon dioxide.
By employing their innovative approach, the researchers determined that they had sequestered around 300 million tonnes of CO2 in the region, rather than enabling the release of hundreds of millions of tonnes of emissions. Souhoff presented these findings at the Goldschmidt Conference held in Prague, Czech Republic, on July 10th.
This practice can also be coupled with the increased use of crushed volcanic rocks on farmland to sequester even more CO2 from the atmosphere.
Wolfram Buss from the Australian National University suggests that while liming can act as a carbon sink, the success seen in the Mississippi River Basin may not apply universally. “There is a potential risk with lime application, which could result in net CO2 emissions in other systems, primarily due to the significant acidification of agricultural soils,” he warns.
The subsequent step is to determine where liming is most essential. “This presents the opportunity for us to foster improved crop yields, potentially leading to billions of tons of CO2 removal,” Planavsky remarks. Financial incentives can significantly aid low-income farmers who are unable to afford the optimal amount of lime needed for their crops.
Antiparasitic drugs gained significant attention during the Covid-19 pandemic, though their applications are unrelated to the virus.
HJBC/ShutterStock Source: ShutterStock
Prior to 2020, few had ever heard of the antiparasitic drug ivermectin. However, interest surged during the Covid-19 pandemic as unfounded claims emerged about its potential to prevent or treat viral infections. Notably, popular podcast host Joe Rogan stated he used it in 2021 while recovering from Covid. That same year, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a prominent public health figure in the U.S., petitioned the FDA regarding its use in treating Covid-19.
Despite numerous studies disproving ivermectin’s efficacy against Covid-19, the buzz around it persists. While criticized as a quack remedy during the pandemic, ivermectin is still a legitimate medicinal drug, with researchers believing it contains potential yet to be fully explored.
What is ivermectin?
Ivermectin is an antiparasitic agent that was developed in 1975 by the pharmaceutical company Merck. It effectively eliminates a wide array of parasites and is FDA-approved for the treatment of two conditions caused by human parasites: onchocerciasis (river blindness) and intestinal strongyloidiasis. Additionally, in some regions, it is used to treat lymphatic filariasis and cutaneous larva migrans.
These parasitic infections are uncommon in high-income nations but pose significant threats to millions in low-income countries globally. As a result, over 300 million individuals take ivermectin annually, making it one of the most impactful global health interventions to date. Its discoverer was awarded the Nobel Prize in 2015.
The FDA has also approved various topical formulations of ivermectin for conditions such as head lice and rosacea. Furthermore, the drug is widely utilized in veterinary medicine to prevent and treat parasitic infections, including heartworms and roundworms. The FDA cautions against the consumption of veterinary formulations by humans, as they differ from those specified for human use.
Can ivermectin treat or prevent COVID-19?
Ivermectin was initially thought to be a promising treatment for Covid-19. Early studies suggested it might aid recovery and prevent viral replication; however, larger studies have indicated otherwise.
For instance, a 2022 study involving over 3,500 Covid-19 patients showed no difference in hospitalization rates between those treated with ivermectin and those given a placebo. Similarly, a 2023 study, involving more than 1,400 adults, found no significant benefit of ivermectin in accelerating recovery compared to placebo.
Can ivermectin treat cancer?
Ivermectin is not approved for cancer treatment and has not undergone thorough clinical trials. However, preliminary studies have indicated that it may have potential as an adjunct cancer therapy.
A decade ago, Peter P. Lee at a lab in Los Angeles discovered that ivermectin could induce cancer cell death through a process known as immunogenic cell death, thus prompting immune cells to recognize and attack cancer cells. Lee and his team searched the National Cancer Institute database to assess the effects of all FDA-approved drugs on various cancer cells, finding that ivermectin notably enhanced signs of immunogenic cell death in several cancer types.
“At that moment, I’d never heard of ivermectin,” Lee remarked. “I had to investigate, and upon learning it was a parasitic drug, I found it rather astonishing.”
In 2021, Lee and associates tested ivermectin in a mouse model of metastatic triple-negative breast cancer, a notably aggressive and challenging condition to treat. They found that 40% of mice treated with a combination of ivermectin and immunotherapy survived beyond 80 days, contrasted with none of the mice given immunotherapy alone surviving past 50 days. Mice solely administered ivermectin did not fare better than untreated counterparts.
“Ivermectin itself isn’t inherently a cancer treatment,” Lee clarified. “But it seems beneficial when used alongside immune-based therapies.”
A clinical trial is currently evaluating the use of ivermectin in conjunction with cancer immunotherapy for metastatic triple-negative breast cancer, with anticipated results expected next year. Other studies also suggest that pancreatic cancer therapies are more effective when combined with ivermectin, and Lee is exploring similar effects on colon cancer cells.
While these findings are encouraging, they do not confirm ivermectin as an effective cancer treatment for humans. “Many therapies that show promise in animal studies do not translate to humans,” Lee pointed out.
What are the side effects of ivermectin?
Ivermectin is generally regarded as safe, but can be toxic when taken in high doses. Possible side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, low blood pressure, and dizziness. In severe cases, ivermectin usage might lead to seizures, coma, or even death, especially if combined with other medications like blood thinners.
“Individuals should not take [ivermectin] on their own or without the guidance of a knowledgeable medical professional. I genuinely hope to utilize ivermectin in ways that provide benefits to numerous patients, but its use is more complex than simply self-administering a medication,” he advised.
A recent study indicates that the skincare routines showcased by young TikTok influencers offer minimal benefits, and may even heighten the risk of skin irritation and allergies in children.
The research team notes a surge in young girls posting videos of intricate skincare regimens, which often feature moisturizers, toners, acne treatments, and anti-aging products.
In this pioneering study, researchers examined these TikTok videos and found that not only is the process complicated, but many girls rush to complete their routines, leading to practices that are costly, unnecessary, and potentially harmful.
“The hazards of utilizing these products, particularly among younger girls, greatly outweigh the minor benefits derived from active ingredients,” stated Dr. Molly Hales, the study’s lead author from Northwestern University.
Dr. Hales remarked that while social media can provide a platform for creativity and self-expression, young girls do not require such complicated routines.
“The risk arises when girls interpret this as an essential step for caring for their skin and safeguarding their health,” she warned.
“These products do not enhance skin health and are likely to degrade skin integrity over time.”
Instead, she suggests using a gentle cleanser once or twice daily and emphasizes that applying sunscreen suffices.
In the journal Paediatrics, Hales and her team describe how they set up two TikTok accounts for a 13-year-old, collecting a sample of 100 videos showcasing skincare routines created by young users.
They discovered that 81 of the 82 content creators were girls, aged between 7 and 18.
“Most of these creators displayed clear, healthy skin without visible blemishes,” the researchers observed, noting that the videos often alluded to beauty ideals linked to whiteness.
The study revealed an average of six products per skincare routine, typically from the same brand, with a total average cost of $168 (£124). However, factoring in additional products, the overall cost could exceed $500 (£369).
“Get Ready With Me” videos were the most prevalent, followed by “skincare routines” and “after-school” skincare clips.
The team found that many featured ingredients, like citric acid, could lead to skin irritation and heightened sun sensitivity, raising the risk of sunburn and skin damage. Only 26% of the 84 videos that included sunscreen featured it in their daytime routines.
Dr. Hales noted that using products with multiple active ingredients or layering identical actives could further elevate the risk of irritation.
The researchers found that 76% of the 25 most viewed videos featured at least one potential contact allergen, frequently in the form of fragrances.
Dr. Tess McPherson from the British Association of Dermatologists, who did not participate in the study, emphasized its importance, as it corroborates anecdotal evidence of a rise in young people seeking treatment for skin irritation.
“We are witnessing a significant increase in individuals desiring what they term perfect skin. This mindset is unproductive and fails to bring true happiness,” she commented.
Dr. McPherson further noted that many young people are requesting birthday money for costly skincare products.
Echoing the study’s findings, she pointed out that such videos perpetuate stigmas regarding conditions like acne and eczema, as well as fears surrounding aging.
“Younger children are seeking skincare items that they don’t need; these products are ineffective,” she remarked. “This reflects a troubling societal view of what one’s skin should ideally look like.”
A TikTok representative responded, stating: “This kind of content appears across all media, and while the author acknowledges not assessing the impact on teenage well-being, they recognize genuine benefits in teenage self-expression, parental bonding, and building a supportive TikTok community.”
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Satellite perspective of coral reefs in New Caledonia
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The decline of coral reefs might come with unexpected advantages. Research suggests that this deterioration allows the oceans to absorb up to 5% more carbon dioxide by 2100, which may decelerate the buildup of this greenhouse gas in the atmosphere.
“If your primary concern is the CO2 concentration in the atmosphere, this could be viewed as a beneficial effect,” states Lester Kwiatkowski from Sorbonne University in Paris, France. However, he cautions that the loss of coral also leads to diminished biodiversity, jeopardizes fisheries, and heightens the vulnerability of coastal regions to rising sea levels.
The extent of global warming is heavily influenced by atmospheric CO2 levels. To date, land and oceans have collectively absorbed around half of the surplus CO2 we’ve emitted. Thus, elements that affect these so-called land or marine carbon sinks can significantly influence future climate scenarios.
Corals are often believed to sequester CO2 from seawater while they develop their calcium carbonate structures. In reality, this process—known as calcification—actually releases CO2 as a net byproduct.
“Corals typically take in inorganic carbon from the ocean in forms like carbonate and bicarbonate ions, converting them into calcium carbonate, which results in CO2 being expelled back into seawater.”
This suggests that if the growth of coral reefs slows or halts, there will be a reduction in CO2 emissions from these reefs, thereby allowing the ocean to absorb more of this greenhouse gas from the atmosphere—a factor currently absent from climate models.
Current studies indicate that coral reef calcification has already declined due to rising ocean temperatures, leading to extensive coral bleaching. Additionally, increased CO2 levels have caused ocean acidification, which complicates the formation of carbonate structures and can even trigger dissolution.
Kwiatkowski and his research team have published estimates detailing how corals are susceptible to warming and ocean acidification. They utilized computer models to project how these changes could affect marine carbon sinks under various emission scenarios. Their findings indicate that by 2100, the ocean may sequester an additional 1-5% more carbon, which could escalate to up to 13% by 2300.
This prediction may be conservative, as Kwiatkowski notes it overlooks additional factors contributing to coral reef degradation, such as overfishing and the spread of coral diseases.
Conversely, the research assumes that corals lack the capacity to adapt or acclimate. Chris Ju judge from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, who was not part of this study, remarks on this perspective.
“If we encounter the worst-case or medium-case outcomes outlined in this study, it portends significant destruction of coral reefs globally,” says Ju judge. “I believe the authors could arrive at different conclusions by considering potential adaptability in corals and other reef organisms under moderate levels of climate change.”
If Kwiatkowski’s team’s projections hold true, the amount of CO2 that leads to a certain degree of warming—the so-called carbon budget—may actually be larger than current estimates.
“Even if we’re facing dire outcomes, it’s critical to refine our understanding of the carbon budget to ensure its accuracy,” asserts Kwiatkowski.
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Automakers are concerned that President Trump’s tariffs on imported vehicles and auto parts could soon drive up expenses and impact profits.
However, one company in the automotive sector sees tariffs as a potential benefit. Carvana, an online used car retailer known for its unusual “vending machine” towers for vehicles, is optimistic.
The tariffs, which include a 25% tax on automobiles produced in Mexico, Canada, Germany, and various other nations, are likely to drive up prices for new cars and trucks, pushing more consumers towards second-hand options. The administration announced on Monday that lowered tariffs on Chinese imports will not affect those on vehicles and auto parts.
“As car prices increase, Carvana finds itself in a relatively advantageous position as consumers seek more affordable and higher-quality vehicles,” stated Ernie Garcia, the founder and CEO of the company, in a recent interview. “We anticipate that this shift will lead more customers to second-hand cars and savings from online purchases.”
Trump asserts that the purpose of imposing tariffs is to encourage manufacturers to produce more goods and create jobs in the U.S., although he also suggests they will help address issues like illegal immigration and drug trafficking.
Automakers are preparing for the anticipated repercussions.
Recently, General Motors indicated that tariffs could elevate costs by $2.8 billion to $3.5 billion this year. Ford, which produces more vehicles domestically than GM, estimates a net cost of $1.5 billion due to tariffs. Toyota, importing many vehicles from Japan, predicted costs of $1.3 billion just for March and April.
Analysts warn that prices for certain imported vehicles might soar by as much as $10,000, and new vehicle sales could slow significantly this year.
Alan Hague from a consulting firm in Fort Lauderdale noted that Garcia’s perspective aligns with consumer behavior trends as retail dealers brace for changes.
“I believe we will see an increase in second-hand car sales due to tariffs, and more customers will flock to Carvana’s website as it remains their primary focus,” he remarked.
However, potential drawbacks exist. Should tariffs lead to a recession or significant price hikes in vehicles, both new and used car sales could decline. Currently, used cars at auctions average about $1,000 more than just two months prior.
Hague remarked that it may take a while for the full effects to manifest, as prices for most vehicles on dealer lots have not yet risen dramatically. The first set of imported models subjected to tariffs, enacted in early April, is just starting to arrive, with customs duties on engines, transmissions, and other parts coming into effect shortly after.
Regardless of the outcome, Carvana finds itself in a stronger financial position than in previous years.
In the wake of the Covid pandemic, which propounded a surge in online used car sales, Carvana became a favorite among investors, resulting in soaring stock prices. However, as demand began to wane, the company faced considerable losses while holding a considerable inventory of vehicles purchased at higher costs.
Simultaneously, rising interest rates followed Carvana’s acquisition of Adesa, a used car auction company, leaving analysts wary of the company’s survival due to the increased debt and losses. By February 2023, inventory levels had plunged.
Nonetheless, Garcia managed to renegotiate debts, lower costs, and streamline Carvana’s operations. Over several months, the company reduced its workforce, sold off inventory, and successfully turned Adesa into a cost-effective supplier for vehicles. Recently, the facility was established at 11 Adesa locations to repair and refurbish used vehicles.
These efforts have begun to pay off. Last week, Carvana announced record figures for the first quarter of the year. Profits reached $373 million, a significant increase from $49 million the previous year, selling 133,898 used cars—46% more than in the first quarter of 2024. The average gross profit per vehicle stood just below $7,000.
The company achieved this by maintaining a leaner inventory, reducing advertising spend, and employing around 4,000 fewer people than three years ago, effectively recovering much of the lost ground.
“From 2017 to 2021, our focus was on growth,” explained Garcia. “Over the past two years, we’ve unlocked efficiency, and that’s driving significant performance improvements.”
Garcia now aims for Carvana to sell between 500,000 and 3 million vehicles annually within the next five to ten years.
Many Wall Street analysts are regaining confidence in the company’s prospects, but a significant challenge remains. Finding skilled auto mechanics is quite difficult, and Carvana will require hundreds more to achieve its aim of refurbishing used cars for sale.
“Labor is a major bottleneck,” stated analyst Ronald George from City in a recent report.
Garcia expresses confidence in Carvana’s revamped business model and believes it will thrive, irrespective of shifts in U.S. trade policies.
“I think it demonstrates that customers are willing to buy cars online and that our online model delivers real value,” he concluded.
High-tech companies are urging the UK government to support the growth of AI data centers in remote areas of the UK by offering the lowest electricity prices in Europe.
A report commissioned by high-tech companies Amazon and Openai calls on the government to reform the UK electricity market by implementing zonal pricing, where prices vary based on different zones to incentivize investment in areas with lower electricity costs.
This zonal pricing model, according to a report by SMF Think Tank, highlights Scotland as a hotspot for AI data centers due to its abundant wind farms and population density.
Political leader Keir Starmer has emphasized the importance of artificial intelligence in positioning the UK as a global technology leader.
However, concerns have been raised about hosting data centers in the UK due to high industrial electricity prices and ambitious targets to phase out fossil fuels from the electricity system.
The SMF report suggests that zonal pricing could significantly reduce electricity costs for data centers, making Scotland’s electricity prices the lowest in Europe.
Support for zonal pricing has been recommended by cross-party Think Tanks to expedite the deployment of AI data centers by connecting more low-carbon electricity to the grid and addressing planning delays.
The report also backs the government’s plan to build small modular reactors outside traditional nuclear areas to facilitate the development of Data Centre Hubs in England and Wales.
According to Sam Robinson of SMF, urgent action is needed to address rising energy costs and planning delays to maintain the UK’s position as a global innovation leader.
Zone pricing alignment has garnered support from SMF clients and tech companies in government consultations on the future of electricity markets.
The proposed zoning system aims to attract high-energy users to regions with lower electricity prices, creating new job opportunities outside of southeastern England while balancing demand on the local grid.
However, concerns have been raised that changes in energy pricing may impact profitability of remote clean energy projects, potentially hindering investment in green energy.
The government is expected to make a decision on the future of the electricity market in the coming months.
The wheel of time turns, the cycle repeats and another Jurassic Park movie is coming out this year. Feedback has faint hopes due to the presence of director Gareth Edwards, who proved in Monsters and Godzilla that he can direct films featuring huge creatures. But still, yawn.
While we all wait with bated breath, YouTuber CoolioArt is supplying dinosaur footage to keep us sated. They are using the animation tool Blender to redo key scenes from the original Jurassic Parkin order to give the Velociraptors feathers. So far, they have done the kitchen scene and the climactic scene in the visitor center (just before, spoiler alert, the Tyrannosaurus rex saves the day).
Given the amateur nature of the project, the animations are really good. However, one problem remains: the raptors are still way too big. You see, despite his reputation for careful research, Jurassic Park author Michael Crichton was a bit prone to getting things badly wrong.
Crichton's biggest scientific fail was controversial his 2004 climate change novel State of Fear. This features environmental terrorists who fake natural disasters to convince the world of the dangers of global warming. They have to do this because, in the universe of the bookall the scientific evidence that greenhouse gas emissions are heating up the climate is flared or faked.
There is even a series of pages entirely dominated by graphs from weather stations in the US that show local temperature declines, and which are meant to be more meaningful than the trend in the average global temperature for some reason. Crichton also recycles the myth that the warming trend is an artefact of “urban heat islands”. It's like a terrible Reddit thread in book form.
Even Jurassic ParkCrichton's most famous creation, wasn't immune. He wanted to feature a dromaeosaurid dinosaur, as they were understood to be fast and intelligent hunters – contrasting with the lumbering T. rexUnfortunately, the scariest ones had a name that Crichton didn't think was cool – Deinonychus antirrhopus – so he used every detail of that species but incorrectly called them Velociraptor.
That's why, in the books and films, an adult Velociraptor is about as tall as a human being. In reality, a Velociraptor was about as tall as a turkey. Feedback imagines that an angry Velociraptor could still cause problems for a human being, but it's just not the same when the terrifying predator is about the size of the average toddler.
The irony is that the evidence that dromaeosaurids had feathers was pretty equivocal in the 1990s, so it was justifiable to present the raptors as featherless – but not to triple their height.
Which explains why CoolioArt has overdubbed some of the dialogue in the kitchen clip. When the girl whispers “What is it?”, a female voice dubbed over the boy's now cheerily says “It's a Deinonychus“. 10/10, no notes.
AI for rOAds
Sometimes, on a gray Monday when the column is due, Feedback can be found hastily scratching around for story ideas because nobody has done anything especially within silly sight of us. However, on Monday 13 January the following item dropped into our lap.
The UK government announced that it was going to “unleash AI” because of its “vast potential” to improve the country's decaying public services. This vision of the future is called the AI Opportunities Action Plan. Feedback feels that the name could have used a bit of work: it abbreviates to AIOAP, which sounds like the Terminator movie Arnold Schwarzenegger will make when he's 85 and an old-age pensioner himself.
The AIOAP contains a lot of proposals, one of which caught Feedback's eye. to BBC News“AI will be fed through cameras around the country to inspect roads and spot potholes that need fixing”.
Like a rabbit caught in headlights, or, more aptly, like a driver heading straight for a pothole because they're being tailgated and there's no room to steer, Feedback found ourself staring blankly forward into space, stunned by the visionary nature of this vision .
It's not that we doubt that AI could be trained to spot potholes. On the contrary: it would probably do it rather well. Instead, we are concerned that this might be solving a non-existent problem.
The BBC reported in March 2024 that English and Welsh roads are blighted by potholes, with a backlog of repairs estimated to cost £16.3 billion. That is a long way short of “Elon Musk buying Twitter” money, but it's still roughly equivalent to the GDP of Jamaica. Furthermore, Feedback can attest to a deep familiarity with the numerous potholes in our local area , many of which have gone unrepaired for months.
The problem, in short, doesn't seem to be lack of knowledge about where the potholes are. We wouldn't have a backlog that would cover the cost of building several skyscrapers if the potholes weren't being logged. This is doubly so for any road busy enough to have cameras on it.
Instead, the problem seems to be getting the actual repairs done. Feedback doesn't see how the AI will help with that. No, we need to turn to genetics.
The only solution is an army of Ron Swanson clones to go and fill the potholes.
Got a story for Feedback?
You can send stories to Feedback by email at feedback@newscientist.com. Please include your home address. This week's and past Feedbacks can be seen on our website.
The Guardian has uncovered that artificial intelligence systems utilized by the UK government to identify welfare fraud exhibit bias based on individuals’ age, disability, marital status, and nationality.
A review of a machine learning program used to analyze numerous Universal Credit payment claims across the UK revealed that certain groups were mistakenly targeted more frequently than others.
This revelation came from documents published under the Freedom of Information Act by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). A “fairness analysis” conducted in February of this year uncovered a significant discrepancy in outcomes within the Universal Credit Advance automated system.
Despite previous claims by the DWP that the AI system had no discrimination concerns, the emergence of this bias raises important questions about its impact on customers.
Concerns have been raised by activists regarding the potential harm caused by the government’s policies and the need for transparency in the use of AI systems.
The DWP has been urged to adopt a more cautious approach and cease the deployment of tools that pose a risk of harm to marginalized groups.
The discovery of disparities in fraud risk assessment by automated systems may lead to increased scrutiny of the government’s use of AI, emphasizing the need for greater transparency.
The UK public sector employs a significant number of automated tools, with only a fraction being officially registered.
The lack of transparency in the use of AI systems by government departments has raised concerns about potential misuse and manipulation by malicious actors.
The DWP has stated that their AI tools do not replace human judgment and that caseworkers evaluate all available information when making decisions related to benefits fraud.
Drinking enough water can help with weight loss and prevent kidney stones as well as migraines, urinary tract infections, and low blood pressure, according to a new systematic review of 18 randomized clinical trials.
A systematic review of 18 randomized clinical trials found that interventions that increased water intake (or decreased intake in some studies) were associated with statistically significant increases in weight loss and reductions in kidney stone events. A single study suggested benefits related to migraine prevention, urinary tract infections, diabetes management, and lower blood pressure, but did not reach statistical significance. Image credit: Günther.
Water is a major component of the human body and is considered an essential nutrient that cannot be produced in sufficient quantities through metabolism.
The National Academy of Medicine recommends a daily fluid intake of approximately 13 8-ounce cups for men and 9 cups for women.
A common public health recommendation is to drink 8 cups of water per day, but the evidence supporting this is not clear.
Determining a single optimal daily water intake is a difficult concept, given the wide variation in body weight, activity levels, and health status at the population level, and the numerous mechanisms that regulate water balance.
Because of the known negative effects of dehydration, behavioral factors and hydration status have been widely studied in relation to health conditions.
Professor Benjamin Breyer of the University of California, San Francisco, and colleagues aimed to summarize the evidence from randomized clinical trials on the effects of increasing daily water intake on health-related outcomes.
“We wanted to take a closer look at such a ubiquitous and simple intervention, as the evidence is not clear and the benefits are not well established,” Professor Breyer said.
“Although the amount of rigorous research turned out to be limited, there were statistically significant benefits in some specific areas.”
“To our knowledge, this is the first study to broadly evaluate the benefits of water intake on clinical outcomes.”
Researchers have found the most evidence supporting drinking water to prevent kidney stones and lose weight.
Drinking 8 cups of water a day significantly reduced the chance of kidney stones recurring.
Some studies have found that drinking about 6 glasses of water a day can help adults lose weight.
However, a study of adolescents found that drinking just over 8 cups of water a day had no effect.
Still, encouraging people to drink water before meals is a simple and inexpensive intervention that could have significant benefits, given the rise in obesity.
Other studies have shown that water can help prevent migraines, manage diabetes and low blood pressure, and prevent urinary tract infections.
Adults with recurring headaches felt better after drinking more water for three months.
Drinking about 4 more cups of water a day helped diabetics with elevated blood sugar levels.
Drinking an additional 6 cups of water per day also helped women with recurrent urinary tract infections. The number of infected people has decreased and the time between infections has increased.
And drinking more water helped young people with low blood pressure.
“Dehydration has been shown to be particularly harmful for people with a history of kidney stones or urinary tract infections,” says Professor Breyer.
“On the other hand, people who sometimes suffer from frequent urination may benefit from drinking less alcohol. There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to water consumption.”
of the team paper Published in a magazine JAMA network open.
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Nizar Hakam others. 2024. Results of randomized clinical trials testing changes in daily fluid intake: a systematic review. JAMA Net Open 7 (11): e2447621;doi: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.47621
Creatine supplements are usually available in powder form
Shutterstock/RHJPhtotos
Creatine is one of the most widely studied performance-enhancing substances in the world. Once dismissed as just a bodybuilding supplement, its popularity among the public is growing alongside the interest of scientists.
Although this supplement is commonly associated with improving strength and muscle mass, evidence suggests that it actually helps: growth of children and to the brain health of adolescents.
“After 8pm [to] After 30 years of research into physical performance, we have discovered many health benefits.” richard crider at Texas A&M University. “This is a remarkable nutrient that helps our cells in a variety of ways, not just athletic performance.”
What is creatine?
This is a compound that is naturally produced in our bodies and in the bodies of other vertebrates. It is primarily found in the muscles, but also appears in the brain, blood, testicles, and other tissues and organs.
Our bodies synthesize creatine, with 1 to 2 grams produced daily by the liver, kidneys, pancreas, and brain. People who eat protein-rich animal foods get about the same amount from their diet.
“When you consume protein, that protein is made up of amino acids. When three specific amino acids combine, they form a molecule called creatine.” scott forbes At Brandon University, Canada.
How does creatine work in the body?
According to Forbes, it plays a key role in the complex way our bodies produce energy at the cellular level. “It is converted into a molecule called phosphocreatine, stored, and then rapidly broken down into energy.”
Similar to carbohydrates, creatine is used for: Generates adenosine triphosphate (ATP)stores energy and supplies it to cells. It also seems to have the effect of protecting structures, Function of mitochondriathe energy power plant inside the cell.
Forbes says creatine is especially helpful when you're stressed or when your tissues are starved of oxygen due to conditions like asthma or anemia. “Any situation where you might need more energy,” he says.
How does it affect physical performance?
Creatine is available as a sports supplement Since the early 1990shas long been recognized for helping athletes increase strength and speed.
There are thousands of studies supporting this, Kreider says. “Athletes with higher creatine stores sprint faster, recover faster, do more total work, and have 10-15% better performance and training adaptability. That's not humbling at all. ”
By supplementing with creatine, increase in muscle masswhich is why it is popular among bodybuilders. “We know that trained athletes can gain up to 10 pounds of muscle mass within five to 10 weeks,” Kreider says. “That's deep. If you compare it to a control where someone just trains and eats normally, they could gain half a kilogram a month.”
Creatine supplements can be especially beneficial later in life. “Creatine is recommended for active aging to reduce muscle loss.” [and] to maintain muscle performance,” Kreider says.
However, researchers stress that this is not a panacea to replace a healthy lifestyle. Forbes says, “Real benefits are only achieved when combined with exercise and strength training, especially when it comes to muscle growth.”
What effect does creatine have on the brain?
Many papers have shown that creatine supplementation can improve aspects of cognitive performance. A small study published earlier this year found that after taking a single dose of creatine, improve memory Compared to a placebo, sleep-deprived people had processing speeds of less than 3 hours.
However, not all studies have yielded consistent results. In 2023, the largest randomized, placebo-controlled study of creatine's effects on cognition to date. small beneficial effectwhich corresponds to an increase of 1 to 2.5 points in intelligence quotient (IQ).
“Most studies show that it can affect the brain, but in young, healthy people, unless the brain is stressed by lack of sleep or mental fatigue, it can have a significant effect on the brain. It doesn’t seem to play a role,” Forbes said.
And although research on this is still in its early stages, it may also have protective effects against neurodegenerative diseases. For example, Alzheimer's patients low amount of creatine Brain or even physical brain damage.
“For example, when you have a concussion, you're essentially experiencing an ischemic phenomenon, meaning areas of the brain are starved of oxygen, limiting their function and causing swelling and inflammation.” Ryder says. “At least in animals given creatine, we find that concussion injuries are reduced by about half.”
How does creatine affect our overall health?
Because creatine acts at the cellular level, researchers believe its positive effects may be widespread within the body. “We found that increasing energy availability within the cell is important, especially when there are many constraints on the energy supply,” says Kreider. “For example, if you have a heart attack or stroke, [creatine] Because you are protecting the cells, the scale of the damage is reduced. ”
Analysis of data from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey also suggests that creatine may have the following effects: beneficial for children. “Children who grow up with less creatine in their diets have less muscle, are shorter, and have higher body fat,” Kreider says. “Adolescent girls with higher creatine levels have fewer menstrual cycle problems.”
There is an emerging consensus among scientists that creatine supplementation is beneficial for almost everyone. Over time, Kreider predicts this will become recommended for specific groups, such as the elderly, pregnant people, and people who don't eat meat, fish, or dairy products.
He also thinks certain foods will one day be fortified with creatine. “It starts in the plant-based space, adding creatine to things like plant-based protein powders and veggie burgers,” Kreider says. “That way we can fill in the gaps in their diets.”
Does it matter when I take creatine?
Time of day may only be important for athletes who are trying to win a race or beat a personal best. “We've found that if you take this right near your workout, your results will be a little bit better,” says Forbes.
However, creatine is also stored in the body as an energy store. “Think of an endurance athlete whose pace changes during a race,” says Forbes. “All of a sudden someone runs away and you're like, 'Hey, how did they do that?'” Well, they changed the power output pretty drastically, and I think creatine plays a role in that. . ”
Although the effects of supplements are relatively long-lasting, they still need to be repeated. “Once you stop taking creatine, it takes four to six weeks to return to baseline,” says Forbes. “Some people cycle with and without creatine, but no study has ever compared consuming creatine for long periods of time on and off cycling to simply taking creatine.”
How should I take it?
Creatine is available in powder, tablet, or gummy form. In terms of effectiveness, tablets and powders tend to be the formulations tested in research because they've been around for a while, but there doesn't seem to be any difference between them.
There are also different types of creatine available, but creatine monohydrate is the most widely available and the most well-studied.
Does creatine have side effects?
According to Forbes, supplements are generally considered safe at the doses most people take (about 5 grams a day). However, some people report dehydration and muscle cramps. “We have several people with gastrointestinal disorders.” [gastrointestinal] It’s painful,” Forbes said. “They're taking creatine, but it doesn't sit well in their stomachs. For those people, we recommend lowering their creatine intake.”
You may need to consult your doctor before taking supplements
It’s commonly believed that spending time online can negatively impact mental health. However, a new study suggests that internet use could actually benefit adults over the age of 50, reducing symptoms of depression by approximately 9%. The study, which examined over 87,500 adults, also indicates that internet use may increase overall life satisfaction. Internet users reported their health as being 15% better on average compared to non-users.
According to one of the co-authors of the study, the internet provides valuable opportunities for older adults to access health-related information, connect with others, and find entertainment. The research, published in the magazine nature, analyzed internet habits in 23 countries and how they correlated with symptoms of depression and life satisfaction among participants.
The study found that adults in countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and China experienced the most positive effects from internet use. Even older users, particularly those aged 65 and above with lower levels of social contact, benefited significantly. Additionally, the study showed that internet users did not need to go online frequently to experience benefits, but those who used the internet more frequently generally had better mental health.
Dr. Zhang Qingpeng, one of the co-authors of the study, emphasized the global potential of the internet as a tool to improve mental health. While acknowledging the positive aspects of internet use, some experts caution that it should be used in moderation to maintain meaningful face-to-face interactions and reduce loneliness.
Professor Andrea Wigfield, director of the Center for Loneliness Research, highlights the importance of balancing internet use with real-life connections to combat loneliness. While the study did not address negative effects of internet use on mental health, experts agree that moderation is key in leveraging the benefits of online connectivity while also nurturing in-person relationships.
About our experts:
Dr. Zhang Qingpeng: An associate professor at the University of Hong Kong, Dr. Zhang’s research focuses on data science, AI in medical analytics, and drug discovery.
Dr. Andrea Wigfield: Director of the Center for Loneliness Research and co-director of the Campaign to End Loneliness, Dr. Wigfield specializes in social isolation and well-being at Sheffield Hallam University.
Forest bathing is an ancient Japanese therapeutic technique dating back to the 1980s. It involves spending restorative time in forests and natural environments to connect with nature and achieve sensory relaxation. Despite sounding like hippie nonsense, there is scientific evidence emerging that supports the benefits of forest bathing.
This practice does not involve any nudity or water activities; instead, it encourages mindfulness, disconnecting from technology, light exercise, and escaping the sensory overload of the modern world. Research has shown that spending time in nature can have a positive impact on mental and physical health, reducing blood pressure, cortisol levels, and heart rate.
Studies on green space exposure have demonstrated significant improvements in various health markers, such as lower rates of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and mortality. Forest bathing is taken seriously in Japan and South Korea, where doctors prescribe it as a therapeutic intervention for stress and hypertension.
A UK study on forest bathing led by Dr. Kirsten McEwan has shown promising results, including a 12% improvement in heart rate variability and enhanced mood. The mechanism behind these health benefits is believed to involve the stimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system and the release of chemicals by trees that boost the immune system.
Nature’s impact on long-term health outcomes is still being studied, but initial findings suggest that spending time in nature can have significant health benefits. Perhaps Western medicine is beginning to recognize and embrace the benefits of traditional practices like forest bathing, aligning with generations of knowledge that being outside in nature is good for overall well-being.
About our experts
Dr. Kirsten McEwan, Associate Professor of Health and Wellbeing at the University of Derby, is leading research on forest bathing through the Forest Therapy Hub.
As we age, our cognitive abilities, such as memory, language, and attention, tend to decline, and scientists have yet to find a way to prevent this decline.
However, there are steps you can take to slow down this decline, and recent scientific studies suggest that owning a pet could be one of them.
For instance, in a 2022 study conducted by US researchers, they examined the cognitive abilities of 1,369 older individuals covered by Medicare health insurance over a six-year period.
About half of the participants owned pets, and the researchers observed that those who owned pets experienced a slower decline in cognitive abilities compared to non-pet owners.
Furthermore, within the pet-owning group, those who had pets for a longer period performed better on the cognitive tests.
The English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA) has been tracking the aging process in people over 50 for over 25 years, helping scientists explore the positive effects pets have on the brain.
According to survey results released last year, owning a pet has been linked to slowing down cognitive decline, particularly in individuals who live alone.
Living alone can contribute to a faster decline in cognitive function and a higher risk of dementia, but having a pet appears to help mitigate these risks.
While there is still much to learn about brain health and aging, owning a pet could be a practical approach to maintaining mental sharpness as we grow older.
This article addresses the question posed by George Grainger from Truro: “Can owning a pet really slow down cognitive decline?”
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New dietary intervention studies Published in the journal Nature MedicineSwitching from a diet high in saturated animal fats to one high in unsaturated plant fats affects the composition of fats in your blood, which can affect your long-term disease risk.
Eichelmann othersThis shows that it is possible to accurately measure diet-related changes in blood fats and directly link them to the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Image courtesy of Tung Lam.
The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights the importance of a healthy diet in preventing chronic diseases and recommends replacing saturated fats with unsaturated fats from plant sources to reduce cardiometabolic risk.
However, limitations in existing research mean these guidelines are of moderate certainty.
The new study addressed these limitations by conducting a detailed analysis of fats in the blood, also known as lipids, using a technique called lipidomics.
These highly detailed lipid measurements have allowed researchers to innovatively combine different types of studies to link diet and disease.
This approach combines dietary intervention studies (using highly controlled diets) with previously conducted cohort studies with long-term health follow-up.
“Our collaboration provides conclusive evidence that diets low in saturated fat and high in unsaturated vegetable fats have health benefits and may help to provide targeted dietary advice to people who would benefit most from changing their eating habits,” said Professor Julie Lovegrove, from the University of Reading.
“Our study provides further conclusive evidence that diets high in unsaturated vegetable fats, such as the Mediterranean diet, are beneficial for health,” added researcher Dr Clemens Wittenbecher from Chalmers University of Technology.
The study included 113 participants from the DIVAS trial, a single-blind, randomized, controlled, parallel trial.
For 16 weeks, one group ate a diet high in saturated animal fats and the other group ate a diet high in unsaturated vegetable fats.
The blood samples were analyzed using lipid analysis techniques to identify specific lipid molecules that reflected the different diets consumed by each participant.
“We summarized the effects on blood lipids in a Multi Lipid Score (MLS),” said Dr Fabian Eichelmann, researcher at the German Institute of Human Nutrition in Potsdam-Rehbrücke.
“A high MLS indicates a healthy blood fat profile, and such good MLS levels can be achieved by consuming more unsaturated vegetable fats and less saturated animal fats.”
“These MLS results from dietary intervention studies were statistically associated with incident cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes in previous large observational studies.”
“These large cohort studies followed initially healthy participants for several years.”
Analysis of data from both studies showed that participants with a higher MLS, indicating a beneficial dietary fat composition, had a significantly reduced risk of developing cardiometabolic diseases.
Additionally, the scientists investigated whether people with lower MLS levels, indicative of a higher saturated fat content in their diet, particularly benefited from a healthier diet.
The Mediterranean diet, which focuses on consuming more unsaturated vegetable fats, was used in one of the large intervention trials known as the PREDIMED trial.
From this study, the authors found that the diabetes prevention effect was most pronounced in individuals who had low MLS levels at the start of the study.
“Because diet is so complex, it's often difficult to draw conclusive evidence from a single study,” Dr. Wittenbecher said.
“Our approach of combining a highly controlled dietary intervention study with lipid analysis and a prospective cohort study with long-term health follow-up can overcome current limitations in nutrition research.”
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F. Eichelmann othersLipid changes through improving the quality of dietary fats can aid in cardiometabolic risk reduction and precision nutrition. National MedPublished online July 11, 2024; doi: 10.1038/s41591-024-03124-1
This article is a version of a press release provided by the University of Reading.
In Australia, Tesla battery owners may lose a profitable revenue stream due to restrictions placed by a U.S. energy company on local third-party transactions for their equipment. Additionally, there is uncertainty regarding the establishment and enforcement of standards by authorities.
Modern appliances like air conditioners, water heaters, and solar panels can now be remotely controlled, allowing consumers to engage in contracts that compensate them for adjusting their electricity usage, including supplying power back to the grid during peak times.
Although Tesla must achieve battery interoperability in various U.S. states, sources suggest that the company has disabled this feature on their flagship $15,000 Powerwall 2 battery sold in Australia.
To maximize benefits for consumers and the electric grid in the future, experts suggest that federal and state governments should enforce U.S. obligations on Tesla and other battery suppliers based on IEEE 1547-2018 Article 10 standards. Companies limiting utilities should not qualify for rebates. New South Wales offers subsidies of up to $2,400 per battery through their program.
Dean Spaccavento, CEO of Reposite Power, argues that batteries with closed control ports can restrict business models and harm owners. There are limitations to mitigating the battery issue through third-party providers who manage virtual power plants, where Tesla is a dominant player.
Government intervention is deemed necessary to mandate local control interfaces for batteries under rebate programs. Reposite Power avoids using Tesla batteries due to the company’s stance in the U.S.
Tesla has been contacted for comment by Guardian Australia.
The Australian Energy Market Operator emphasizes the potential of cooperative Consumer Energy Resource storage in their recent Grid Blueprint announcement.
Effective coordination and management of CERs are crucial for a cost-effective energy transition, as highlighted by Aemo. Home batteries with cloud control capabilities could be remotely activated with a software command, potentially causing conflicts and financial losses.
The adoption of interoperability standards in Australia’s energy products is expected to bring significant benefits, according to experts.
JAmes Muldoon is a lecturer in management at the University of Essex, Mark Graham is a professor at the Oxford Internet Institute and Callum Cantt is a senior lecturer at the Essex Business School. They Fair Worka project to evaluate working conditions in the digital workplace, of which they are co-authors. Feeding the Machine: The Hidden Human Labor that Powers AI.
Why did you write that book?
James Muldoon: The idea for the book came from field research that we did in Kenya and Uganda about the data annotation industry. We spoke to a lot of data annotators, and the working conditions were just horrible. And we thought this was a story that everyone needed to hear: people working for less than $2 an hour on precarious contracts, and work that’s largely outsourced to countries in the global south because of how hard and dangerous the work is.
Why East Africa?
Mark Graham: I started my research in East Africa in 2009, working on the first of many undersea fiber optic cables that would connect East Africa with the rest of the world. The focus of my research was what this new connectivity would mean for the lives of workers in East Africa.
How did you gain access to these workplaces?
Mark Graham: The basic idea of Fair Work is to establish fair labor principles and then rate companies on those principles. We give companies a score out of 10. Companies in Nairobi and Uganda opened up to us because we were trying to give them a score and they wanted a better score. We went to them with a zero out of 10 and said, “Here’s what we need to do to improve.”
Will the company accommodate me? Will they dispute your low score?
Mark Graham: We get a variety of responses. Some people will argue that what we’re asking for is simply not possible. They’ll say, “It’s not our responsibility to do these things,” and so on. The nice thing about the score is that we can point out other companies that are doing the same thing. We can say, “Look, this company is doing it. What’s wrong with your company? Why can’t you offer these terms to your employees?”
Can you talk about the reverberations of colonialism that you found in this data work?
Mark Graham: The East African Railway once ran from Uganda to the port of Mombasa. It was funded by the British government and was basically used to extract resources from East Africa. What’s interesting about the East African fiber optic connection is that it runs along a very similar route to the old railway, and again, it’s an extractive technology.
Could you please explain the concept of the “extractor”?
Callum Cant: When we look at AI products, we tend to think of them as something that is relatively organically created, and we don’t think about the human effort, the resource requirements, and all the other things that go on behind the scenes.
For us, the extractor is a metaphor that invites us to think more deeply about whose labor, whose resources, whose energy, whose time went into the process. This book is an attempt to look beyond the superficial appearance of sleek webpages and images of neural networks to really see the embodied reality of what AI looks like in the workplace and how it interacts with people.
James Muldoon: I think a lot of people would be surprised to know that 80% of the work behind AI products is actually data annotation, not machine learning engineering. If you take self-driving cars as an example, one hour of video data requires 800 hours of human data annotation. So it’s a very intensive form of work.
How does this concept differ from Shoshana Zuboff’s idea of surveillance capitalism?
James Muldoon: Surveillance capitalism best describes companies like Google and Facebook, which make their money primarily through targeted advertising. It’s an apt description of the data-to-ads pipeline, but it doesn’t really capture the broader infrastructural role that Big Tech now plays. The Extraction Machine is an idea we came up with to talk more broadly about how Big Tech profits from the physical and intellectual labor of humans, whether they’re Amazon employees, creatives, data annotators, or content moderators. It’s a much more visceral, political, and global concept of how all of our labor is exploited and extracted by these companies.
A lot of the concerns about AI have been about existential risks, or whether the technology could reinforce inequalities or biases that exist in the data it was trained on, but are you arguing that just introducing AI into the economy will create a whole range of other inequalities?
Callum Cant: You can see this very clearly in a workplace like Amazon. Amazon’s AI systems, the technology that orchestrates its supply chain, automate thought processes, and what humans have to do in Amazon’s warehouses is grueling, repetitive, high-stress labor processes. You get technology that is meant to automate menial tasks and create freedom and time, but in reality, the introduction of algorithmic management systems in the workplace means people are forced into more routine, boring, low-skilled jobs.
Callum Kant of Fair Work argues that Amazon’s system creates a “repetitive and burdensome” work process for employees. Photo: Beata Zawrzel/NurPhoto via Getty Images
In one chapter of the book, Irish actress Chloe discovers that someone is using an AI copy of her voice, similar to the recent dispute between Scarlett Johansson and OpenAI: She has the platform and the funds to challenge this situation, whereas most people do not.
Callum Cant: Many of the solutions actually rely on collective power, not individual power, because, like anyone else, we have no power to tell OpenAI what to do. OpenAI doesn’t care if some authors think they’re running an information extraction regime. These companies are funded by billions of pounds and shouldn’t care what we think about them.
But we have identified some ways that, collectively, we can begin to resist and try to change the way this technology is being deployed, because I think we all recognize that there is a potential for liberation here. But getting to it is going to require a huge amount of collaboration and conflict in a lot of places. Because while there are people who are getting enormously wealthy from this technology, the decisions made by a very small number of people in Silicon Valley are making all of us worse off. And I don’t think a better form of technology is going to come out of that unless we force them to change the way they do things.
Is there anything you would like to say to our readers? What actions can they take?
Callum Cant: It’s hard to give one universal piece of advice because people are all in very different positions. If you work in an Amazon warehouse, organize your coworkers and exert influence over your boss. If you work as a voice actor, you need to organize with other voice actors. But everyone has to deal with this in their own situation, so it’s impossible to make a diagnosis.
We are all customers of large tech companies: should we boycott Amazon, for example?
Callum Cant: I think organizing in the workplace is more powerful, but there is also a role for organizing as consumers. If there are clear differences and opportunities where you can make better use of consumption, especially if the workers involved are calling for it, then by all means, do so. For example, if Amazon workers call for a boycott on Black Friday, we would encourage people to listen. Absolutely. But no matter where people take action and what actions they take, they need a set of principles to guide them. One of the key principles is that collective action is the primary path forward.
Favoritism stems from our individual preferences for colors, tastes, faces, places, and more, which are influenced by our evolutionary history. For instance, we tend to prefer lighter shades associated with positive things like the sky, while disliking darker shades associated with negativity.
Our preferences are also shaped by environmental factors, such as geographic environments that offer a balanced mix of habitat, resources, and views that promote survival. Additionally, we find symmetrical faces more attractive, possibly due to the genetic indicator of health they represent.
Cultural influences and personal experiences further mold our preferences. From childhood, we are asked to name our favorite things, combining inherent evolutionary preferences with sentimental attachments to shape our choices.
Our brains use these favorites as shortcuts to navigate the overwhelming number of choices in the world, making decisions easier for things like dinner reservations, vacations, or entertainment options. While convenient, relying on favorites can limit openness and spontaneity.
In relationships, favoritism can lead to inequality and division, as seen with parents favoring certain children or bosses showing preference to specific employees.
This article addresses the question of why we choose favorites, originally posed by Heath Bowen via email.
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Slowing down isn’t typically a priority for runners. From elite athletes to casual runners, the focus is usually on speed, personal records, competition, and pushing limits.
However, the concept of slow running has gained popularity recently. It’s not just a trend promoted by social media influencers, but also endorsed by coaches, runners, and scientists.
What are the benefits of running slowly?
The idea is that running at a slower pace can actually yield faster results in terms of exercise benefits.
“For example, running slowly can lower your resting blood pressure and strengthen your heart,” says Professor Dan Gordon. “It still challenges the body but without the need for excessive stress to achieve cardiovascular improvements,” adds Jonathan Myers, an exercise physiologist at Anglia Ruskin University.
Running slowly is typically defined as a pace where you can comfortably hold a conversation. It’s an effort level of 4 or 5 on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being a sprint. This type of exercise, known as “Zone 2 exercise” in sports science, is considered to be a sweet spot for promoting longevity and overall health.
A study in Copenhagen found that light and moderate joggers had lower mortality rates than non-runners and intense runners. Vigorous joggers did not show significantly different mortality rates from non-runners.
Running slowly is beneficial for heart health, enhances metabolic functions, and improves mental well-being. It can prevent metabolic diseases, improve insulin sensitivity, and boost mitochondrial density in cells, leading to improved energy utilization.
Improved mental and physical health
Slow runners experience faster recovery, reduced risk of overtraining-related fatigue and injuries, and generally feel better overall.
“Slow running has a positive impact on mental health and social well-being,” says Gordon. “It allows for social interactions, which can motivate individuals to stay active and enjoy the process without pressure to perform.”
What we’re starting to realize is that you don’t need intense stress on your body to see cardiovascular benefits.
Gordon believes promoting slow running in groups can encourage more people to stay active consistently, as the social support can enhance motivation and enjoyment of the activity.
More Gains, Less Pain
Contrary to the belief that speed is essential for improvement, researchers suggest that slow running can yield significant results. Elite runners, for example, often perform majority of their training at a slow pace to build a strong aerobic base and enhance cardiovascular efficiency.
This concept of an “Aerobic Base” emphasizes the importance of improving cardiovascular capacity to enhance overall running performance. By running slowly, you can increase endurance, speed, and efficiency while reducing exertion.
In summary, slowing down not only improves longevity but also enhances running abilities in the long run.
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About our expert, Professor Dan Gordon
Dan Gordon is an Associate Professor at the Health and Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, South East England. With over 20 years of experience in sports physiology, he specializes in endurance physiology assessment.
Have you ever taken melatonin to help you sleep? Melatonin is a natural hormone involved in sleep. Our brains react to darkness by synthesizing melatonin, which helps regulate our internal and biological clocks. circadian rhythm. However, melatonin has many diverse functions that help maintain our health. It’s more than just a good night’s sleep.
For example, researchers have shown in the past that melatonin is an antioxidant and helps calm inflammation. When our bodies are damaged, the immune system initiates a natural repair response through inflammation, but excessive inflammation can actually harm cells. Scientists have discovered that melatonin has anti-inflammatory properties and can help stop harmful inflammation.
These properties have led scientists to propose that melatonin may also help heal injuries associated with severe inflammation, such as spinal cord injuries. These complex injuries are rooted in the central nervous system and can affect our ability to move, speak, and process information. Healing is very difficult because spinal cord cells cannot regenerate like other cells such as skin cells.
A team of Chinese scientists recently began testing whether melatonin can reduce spinal cord injuries in mice. They hypothesized that melatonin may do so through a biochemical pathway that activates it.anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway.
The researchers paralyzed the limbs of 100 mice to simulate spinal cord injury, then injected them with different doses of melatonin. They injected a control group of 25 mice with a placebo and compared their responses to mice receiving melatonin injections.
The scientists took sections of tissue from the spinal cords of mice before and after giving them melatonin. They stained the tissue to see if the cells were dead, dying, or normal. They found that mice injected with melatonin had fewer dead cells than the control group.
To see how the mice responded to these treatments at the cellular level, the scientists also investigated the energy factories in the mice’s cells, mitochondria. They stained the mice’s mitochondria and examined them under a microscope. Scientists have discovered that the mitochondria in mice are fatally affected by paralysis. They observed bubble-like structures within the mitochondria. vacuole, only in mice that did not receive melatonin. This means that the mouse’s cells died from lack of energy, just as plants die when they are deprived of water.
The research team confirmed that fewer vacuoles formed within mitochondria in mice injected with melatonin. They suggested that this means that melatonin’s antioxidant properties protect the membranes of our cellular power-generating factories, just as our skin protects us from the elements.
Scientists also tested whether melatonin could prevent inflammation and other changes in the chemical structure of cells by interacting with proteins.a protein called NLRP3 inflammasome Code of inflammation within our body. Scientists predicted that too much NLRP3 could promote injury, cause uncontrolled inflammation, and cause cell death.
The scientists used a gel-based method to separate proteins in tissue samples based on size. western blot, to detect what kind of proteins are made by mice injected with melatonin. They confirmed that melatonin interacted with the NLRP3 inflammasome in these mice through proteins of the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway and reversed the inflammatory effects of NLRP3. They confirmed that melatonin reduced inflammation in these mice and prevented the progression of the simulated spinal cord injury.
The researchers concluded that melatonin may reduce spinal cord injury and provide insight into the recovery process. They suggested that future researchers should test whether melatonin’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects could treat other diseases associated with cell death, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Waking up in the morning can be a challenge, and sometimes we need a little help to get going. For many, that help comes in the form of coffee, with its invigorating aroma and taste.
A dose of caffeine can boost your energy and alertness, providing a much-needed kickstart to your day. But when is the optimal time to enjoy your first cup?
“The stress hormone cortisol peaks in the early morning hours, helping us wake up and get moving,” explains Kirsten Jackson, founder of Food Treatment Clinic and a consultant nutritionist. “This rise in cortisol levels between 7 and 8 a.m. helps raise blood sugar levels, giving us the energy we need for the day ahead.”
Similar to cortisol, caffeine from coffee boosts energy levels and brain activity. However, consuming coffee when cortisol levels are already high may not be as effective in providing the desired energy boost.
To maximize the benefits of your coffee, it’s recommended to wait until later in the morning to enjoy your first cup. By aligning your coffee consumption with your body’s natural cortisol rhythms, you can make the most of its stimulating effects.
Cortisol levels typically peak in the morning, so having coffee at this time may not fully enhance its effects. Waiting until around 10-11 a.m. allows you to first benefit from your body’s natural wakefulness before enjoying the caffeine-induced stimulation.
When is the best time to drink coffee?
Considering factors like cortisol levels and caffeine’s impact on sleep cycles, it’s advised to avoid consuming coffee after noon to prevent sleep disruptions caused by lingering caffeine in your system.
“Drinking coffee later in the day can interfere with your ability to have a restful night’s sleep, as caffeine binds to adenosine receptors, inhibiting drowsiness,” Jackson explains.
By following a specific coffee drinking schedule, such as having a cup between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m., you can align your caffeine intake with your body’s natural rhythms and optimize its effects throughout the day.
About our experts
Kirsten Jackson, also known as the ‘IBS Dietitian’, is a registered dietitian specializing in Irritable Bowel Syndrome. She established the Food Treatment Clinic in 2015, offering expert gastroenterology advice for various conditions.
Recently, I was walking alone down a quiet, winding road. The road is snowy and slippery, making it difficult to walk. The sun felt warm on my face. As I trudged uphill, I missed seeing my girlfriend’s partner, but I was grateful to be able to visit my little sister, who I don’t see often.
I spent a few hours alone that day. At that time, I felt a variety of emotions, including curiosity, anxiety, and joy. It was a welcome period of solitude, and I returned to civilization feeling calmer and clearer than when I left.
Think back to the last time you were alone. Maybe you were commuting to work or getting up before the rest of your family. Maybe you live alone. Did you enjoy that period of solitude and long to connect with others, or did you let it pass without much thought?
Loneliness is inevitable. The adults inside England And the US One-third of your waking life is spent alone And it increases as you get older. In many places, we live alone more than ever before.Recent Survey of 75 countries We find that 17 of these locations have more than 25% single-person households.
As social creatures, research has historically kept us from spending time in solitude. But these days, more and more people seem to be craving time away from the crowds. Well, we now have evidence as to why spending time alone feels so good and may actually be essential to your health and well-being. Furthermore, we…
Planting forests helps reduce further global warming by absorbing some of the carbon dioxide we emit into the atmosphere. But the global climate benefit could be about 15 to 30 percent smaller than previously estimated, due to other influences such as sunlight absorption by trees.
“We're not saying don't plant trees,” he says. james webber at the University of Sheffield, UK. It's just that the climate benefits aren't as big as we thought, he says.
The impact of trees will depend in part on what other actions are taken to address climate change. Weber and his colleagues showed that the more forests are planted, the greater the benefits. “It’s more positive and efficient to do other things at the same time,” he says.
It has long been known that plants have both warming and cooling effects. In particular, dark foliage can have a warming effect by absorbing light that would otherwise be reflected into the space. This effect is strongest when trees are replaced by snow or ice, but can occur in other situations as well.
Plants also release volatile organic compounds into the air. “Those are the chemicals that create the smell of the forest,” team members say james king also at the University of Sheffield.
These biogenic compounds can affect the climate in a variety of ways. One important example is that it can react with chemicals in the atmosphere that react with methane. “So the methane stays around longer, and methane is a powerful greenhouse gas,” Weber said.
Compounds emitted by plants can also react with nitrogen oxides to form ozone, another greenhouse gas.
These effects will lead to further warming. However, compounds of biological origin can also form aerosol particles that reflect sunlight and have a cooling effect.
To understand the overall climate impact of afforestation, the researchers incorporated these and other processes into a climate model in which all available land is forested. This means, for example, trees that are located in areas that are currently grasslands, but not in farmland or urban areas.
“To our knowledge, this is the first time this has been done on a global scale and based on a plausible reforestation scenario,” King said.
The researchers modeled two scenarios. For one, little is being done to tackle climate change other than planting trees. In this case, the warming avoided by CO2-absorbing forests is reduced by 23 to 31 percent, once other forest impacts are taken into account.
In the second, more optimistic scenario, strong action is taken to limit further warming. In this case, avoided warming was reduced by 14 to 18 percent.
One reason for the difference is that reducing fossil fuel emissions reduces aerosols from air pollution. In a polluted world, adding more aerosols from forests won't make much of a difference, but in a cleaner world, the cooling effect will be greater.
The team acknowledges that the model is still incomplete and does not include all feedback effects. For example, it includes the greenhouse effect of ozone, but not its effects on vegetation. High levels of ozone can kill trees, meaning less CO2 is removed from the atmosphere. The model also does not include the effects of wildfires.
“It's very complicated,” King says. “It's not really possible to consider all feedback in one study.”
“Importantly, this study shows that preventing deforestation is a much more efficient way to mitigate climate change compared to reforestation, and therefore should be prioritized. It’s a necessity,” he says. Stephanie Law Climate Scientist at WWF in Washington, DC.
Another feedback missing from the model is the cooling effect of water evaporating from leaves, which can be greater in tropical regions, Roe says. So the climate benefits of tree planting may be overestimated, she says, but the study doesn't yet tell the full story.
Additionally, tree planting has many other benefits for humans and wildlife, including reducing erosion, maintaining water supply and quality, providing food and jobs, and reducing extreme heat in the region. “Afforestation, especially reforestation in forest biomes with native species, is absolutely worth pursuing,” says Lo.
“We've always known that forests have a warming effect under certain conditions and a cooling effect under others. What this study shows is that forests have an overwhelming net The effect is a cooling effect.” thomas crouser in ETH Zurich Swiss.
“But most importantly, even if the effects of cooling were not as great, we still need to conserve our natural forests to support the planet's biodiversity and the billions of people who depend on it.” “There is,” he says.
Immersing your body in cold water stimulates the release of an invigorating cocktail of chemicals.
Jacob Staedler/EyeEm/Getty Images
“It's like pressing Control-Alt-Del on your computer,” says Cath Pendleton. “When I'm in the water, I get so focused on my body that my brain switches off. It's just swimming with me.”
Pendleton, an ice swimmer based in Merthyr Tydfil, England, is as tough as anyone. In 2020, five years after she realized she didn't mind swimming in very cold water, she became the first person to swim one mile inside the Antarctic Circle. Part of her training included sitting in a freezer in a shed.
But she's not the only one passionate about cold water. Rivers, lakes, and oceans that were once home to a handful of serious year-round swimmers are now on the verge of extinction, thanks to media reports about the mental health impact of frigid dips and pool closures due to COVID-19. The number of people visiting is rapidly increasing. An estimated 7.5 million people swim outdoors in the UK alone, and more and more people swim outdoors during the winter. Global numbers are hard to come by, but the International Winter Swimming Association is seeing a boom in winter swimmer registrations around the world, including in China, Russia and Finland, where water temperatures can drop below 0C.
But what could be better than the joy of being in nature and the perverted feeling of happiness that defies the cold? According to the latest research, the answer is probably: Recent studies are beginning to uncover evidence that cold water immersion can reduce stress and depression, and may help deal with autoimmune diseases.
When it comes to eating healthier, there has always been a sense of having your cake and eating it too. For decades, we've been told that the secret to staying healthy is to indulge in the fresh, delicious food of the Mediterranean. Adding more tomatoes, focaccia, and olive oil to your dinner plate, along with a glass of Chianti, is said to reduce your chances of developing a heart attack and type 2 diabetes.
The most surprising thing is that this is not just some exaggerated nonsense. Evidence that the Mediterranean diet can actually improve health in many ways has been growing for more than 50 years. “We are conducting large, long-term clinical trials that result in difficult clinical events,” he says. miguel martinez gonzalez at the University of Navarra in Pamplona, Spain.
But despite all this praise, it was difficult to understand what it was about the diet that led to such benefits. First of all, nutritionists cannot agree on the exact form it should take. Additionally, family meals, home cooking, and other non-dietary factors should be considered. The good news is that over the past decade, we've begun to understand which components of our diets provide the greatest health benefits and why. This means we are now better able than ever to offer you the best advice…
The tablet contains a vibration motor powered by a small silver oxide battery. When stomach acid reaches the intestines, the outer layer of stomach acid dissolves. This closes the electronic circuit and begins to vibrate.
Shriya Srinivasan, Giovanni Traverso, MIT News
A vibrating drug that tricks the brain into thinking it’s full could one day treat obesity. This approach is significantly less invasive than gastric bypass surgery, and may be cheaper and have fewer side effects than drugs such as Wegovy and Ozempic.
Giovanni Traverso Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have developed a pill that is about the same size as a standard multivitamin. The tablet contains a vibrating motor powered by a small silver oxide battery that is safe to swallow. When the tablet reaches your intestines, stomach acid dissolves the outer layer of the tablet. This closes the electronic circuit and begins to vibrate.
In experiments with pigs, some of the animals were given the tablets 20 minutes before being fed. These pigs ate about 40 percent less than pigs that were not given the tablets. They also had higher levels of hormones in their blood that typically signal a feeling of fullness.
Researchers believe the pill has potential as a treatment for obesity and hope to test it in humans “soon,” Traverso said. “This is a huge health problem, affecting more than 40 percent of the U.S. population, for example.”
He says the pill’s vibrations activate the same receptors that sense when the stomach lining expands after a large meal, sending a signal to the brain that you’re full. The prototype version vibrates for 30 minutes until the battery dies and passes on its own.
Traverso said future versions could be adapted to stay in the stomach semi-permanently and be turned on and off wirelessly as needed. She said people will likely react differently to the device, but it typically turns on automatically for short periods of time each day to reduce appetite, or is controlled by a smartphone app to suppress hunger pangs. It is also possible to do so.
Previous research by the same group found that Electrical stimulation of the stomach lining can actually cause hunger pangs, may lead to the treatment of anorexia in cancer patients. “I think this is really exciting because we’re just learning what we can do by stimulating different parts of the gastrointestinal tract in different ways.” [gastrointestinal] Traverso says. “When we eat, we feel full, but the question is can we induce that feeling of fullness? Can we create that illusion?
In 2013, Elon Musk published the following paper: white paper It teased the idea of traveling at high speed from Los Angeles to San Francisco in just 35 minutes through a vacuum-sealed tube (a system he called Hyperloop). The idea was “born out of his hatred of California’s proposed high-speed rail system.” according to to his biographer Ashley Vance.
A decade later, Hyperloop One, the most high-profile startup to try to follow in Musk’s footsteps, close the door. News of its demise came less than two weeks after the Biden administration took office. announced Provides $6 billion in funding for high-speed rail projects across California.
This is a huge victory for public transit advocates, many of whom have struggled for decades to improve not just high-speed rail, but rail service overall. (Biden’s announcement includes Numerous other railway projects across the country.) But it’s by no means a complete victory.
First, many cities and states were fooled by the hyperloop’s siren song and then left adrift. In 2018, I reported on a story about the collapse of Arrivo (another hyperloop startup founded by one of Hyperloop One’s co-founders), and when I called the Colorado Department of Transportation to ask about the company’s bankruptcy, I finally got a response over the phone. I still vividly remember what I noticed. they didn’t know it happened.
Colorado wasn’t alone.Hyperloop One once promised to be built in West Virginia $500 million testing and certification facility state. They also built a test track near Las Vegas, where they briefly took some people through tubes. Clearly, that was enough for then-CEO Jay Walder. Claim It was “the first new means of mass transportation in over 100 years.”
Other hyperloop projects and companies remain, but most are located outside the United States. Thankfully, the country was already regaining momentum in investing in its rail system with a focus on faster trains.
The most high-profile initiative is Brightline, a company that recently expanded its existing service in Florida. all the way to orlandopassengers can travel there from as far away as Miami.
Brightline is also building what it calls “the nation’s first true high-speed rail network” between Los Angeles and Las Vegas. The project is supported by $3 billion in funding recently announced by the Biden administration and is expected to break ground in early 2024.
Building high-speed rail is about more than just money.There is deep-rooted problems Years of deregulation are getting in the way. With a project of this size, it’s difficult to stay on time and on budget.of other A big recipient of the newly announced federal funding (another $3 billion) is the high-speed rail project slated to run down the spine of California, a source of Mr. Musk’s ire.
Could the return of high-speed rail risk a rematch with the world’s richest man? Perhaps rail fans can take solace in seeing how distracted Musk has become since his 2013 white paper.
Moreover, aside from a few engineering competitions held by SpaceX, Musk has only enjoyed his Hyperloop project on a superficial level.
Musk once tweeted that he had received “verbal government approval.” build “New York-Phil-Balt-DC Underground Hyperloop” It was never built. In April 2022 he claimed His tunneling effort, The Boring Company, will “attempt to build a practical hyperloop.”The next day, the company tweeted “Full-scale testing of Hyperloop will begin later this year.” That also never happened.
Mr. Musk has spent the past decade with little involvement in Hyperloop, essentially outsourcing his efforts to abolish high-speed rail. The death of Hyperloop One casts a cloud over that premise, and the billionaire looks increasingly forced to make a decision: Will he be willing enough to find the time to finish the job himself?
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