Lifestyle

Q: I love perfume, but I’ve heard a chemical used in fragrances may be bad for my health. Is that true? A: A spritz of perfume may feel like such a minor chemical exposure compared to the pollutants elsewhere in our environment – microplastics, air pollution, PFAS. But scientists and clinicians are increasingly raising alarm over a…

Do you sleep on your back or on your side? If you’re looking for a bigger paycheck in 2025, a new survey has some surprising advice: sleep on your stomach with your arms raised above you! As online searches for the “best position to sleep in” have skyrocketed by 250% in just the past month, researchers have…

The Italian artist who created the banana duct-taped to a wall that sold this week for $6.2 million, said in an interview published on Friday that the work was a “provocation” and an invitation to appreciate the true value of art. “Comedian”, by Maurizio Cattelan, was snapped up on Wednesday at auction at Sotheby’s in New York…

A new small study suggests that hot water can help muscles repair themselves and become stronger. Ice baths after exercise are hot, especially among influencers. But a new small study suggests that recreational athletes perform better if they soak in a hot tub rather than a frigid one, especially if there are breaks in their workouts, such…

Young families with children are a shrinking part of the U.S. population in many areas. The decline is especially pronounced in major urban centers, including Boston, San Francisco, New York, Minneapolis, Chicago, Los Angeles, Detroit, Seattle, Philadelphia, San Jose and Washington, D.C. During the COVID-19 pandemic shutdown, many families with children moved to suburban or rural areas in search of more space.…

Just weeks after his death at the age of 91, renowned music producer and composer Quincy Jones was bestowed with an honorary Oscar by Hollywood’s film academy at a gala on Sunday. Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, siblings and producers of the James Bond movie franchise, received the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award at the annual…

There’s an old saying that it takes a village to raise a child. A new poll finds today’s parents are reinventing what it means to rely on their “village” when it comes to raising their kids. According to a survey of 2,000 parents of children younger than six, 78% agree that the definition of a village —…

Eggs have had a complicated history when it comes to health and nutrition. First, they’re good, then they’re bad, then food scientists say they’re good again. Well, researchers are once again placing all their eggs in the “good” basket, finding that these controversial sources of cholesterol may be even better your our brains than we thought. A…

In a significant development, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced on Wednesday that the first confirmed case of H5N1 avian influenza in a pig within the United States has been found. The infected pig was part of the backyard farm that had a mix of poultry and livestock, and did not show any signs of illness,…

Want to sharpen your mental focus? A brief, intense workout might be just what your brain needs, according to new research. While we’ve known for a long time that regular exercise can boost brain health over time, scientists from UC Santa Barbara have now found evidence that even a single workout session can enhance cognitive function –…

Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani brought his sleek, silky looks to New York on Thursday night, presenting his spring 2025 collection for his namesake brand as he opened a new building in the city. The veteran designer, 90, called the line “In Viaggio” (On a Journey), paying tribute to “the city that embodies the collective dream”. He…

While outbreaks of Marburg virus are rare, the viral hemorrhagic fever can be fatal. Here’s what you need to know. While outbreaks of Marburg virus are rare, there have been several in recent years across sub-Saharan Africa. It’s one of the deadliest viral diseases and can be fatal. Here’s what you need to know. Rwanda is on…

It’s often said there is a thin line between love and hate, but is it OK to sometimes hate your long-term partner? If you ask actress Jamie Lee Curtis, it’s practically necessary. Asked about the secret to her 40-year marriage to actor Christopher Guest, she recently said the key includes patience, perseverance and “a really good dose…

We’ve all been there: sitting with a friend, rolling our eyes as we recount the latest frustrating antics of another mutual acquaintance. It’s a scene as old as friendship itself. But what if this age-old ritual of venting serves a deeper, more strategic purpose than we ever realized? A study from UCLA psychologists suggests that venting is…

Have you ever felt like you woke up one day and suddenly everything in your body hurt? It turns out that you might not be imagining things. A shocking study by a team at Stanford Medicine finds that our bodies don’t just gradually wear down over time — they undergo dramatic molecular transformations at specific ages. Specifically,…

Your morning coffee or afternoon energy drink might be doing more than just giving you a quick boost. A new study suggests that excessive caffeine consumption could be putting your heart at risk, even if you’re otherwise healthy. Researchers from Zydus Medical College and Hospital in India have found that drinking more than 400 mg of caffeine…

Problematic smartphone use refers to behaviours such as panicking when one’s phone is unavailable, finding it difficult to control time spent on a phone, and using the phone to the detriment of other meaningful activities. Teenagers who have a problematic relationship with their smartphones are more likely to suffer from anxiety, depression and insomnia than those who…

Stepping out for a movie date? Here are 7 outfits inspired by celebrities that are perfect for the occasion. Check out! A movie date goes beyond just watching a film. You can create enduring memories and spend quality time with your family, partner, and friends. A perfect outfit for the occasion is important to ensure that you…

Forty thousand years ago, the world had its first fashionista. A study published in Science Advances is revealing how our human ancestors used to accessorize their clothing with eyed needle tools. The small adornments might not seem like much by today’s standards, but the choice marked a significant transition in how clothing is viewed. Garments were no…

From sophisticated smartwatches to simple fitness monitors, digital devices are strapped onto the wrists of millions of people, often with the goal of self-improvement. For many, these devices offer a window into their health, tracking everything from steps taken to hours slept. However, for individuals with atrial fibrillation (AF), a common heart rhythm disorder, these wearable devices…

Let’s face it, your neighborhood park just isn’t cutting it for those Instagram-worthy shots. If you’re tired of battling power lines and rooftops to catch a decent sunset, it’s time to step up your game. Whether you’re a hopeless romantic, a budding photographer, or just someone who loves a good golden hour glow, we’ve rounded up the…

Imagine you wake up one morning with a scratchy throat and a slight fever. You have an important meeting at work that you’ve been preparing for weeks. Do you call in sick, potentially disappointing your colleagues and jeopardizing your professional reputation? Or do you pop a few painkillers, put on a brave face, and hope for the…

In today’s digital age, it’s become increasingly common for parents to hand their upset child a smartphone or tablet to calm them down. But could this seemingly harmless practice be hindering children’s emotional development? A new study from researchers at Eötvös Loránd University and the Université de Sherbrooke suggests that using digital devices as emotional pacifiers may…

Drastically reducing children’s leisure screen time to just three hours per week can lead to significant improvements in their mental health and behavior in as little as two weeks, a new study shows. The research, led by Dr. Jesper Schmidt-Persson from the University of Southern Denmark, offers a powerful and actionable strategy for parents concerned about their…

In an age where social media dominates teenage life, researchers have discovered a disturbing trend that’s leaving parents and educators increasingly concerned. Digital self-harm — a phenomenon where teens anonymously post hurtful content about themselves online — has seen a staggering 88% increase among American teenagers since 2016. This shocking statistic comes from a new study published…

Recent studies are reassuring middle-aged women who are approaching menopause. Many women are concerned about the potential link between migraines, menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats, and the risk of cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and strokes. However, researchers from the University of Michigan are offering new insights and recommendations for managing health risks.…

Cases of the deadly illness caused by smoking have grown by 17% since 2003, Cancer Research UK said, with the biggest jumps in liver, throat and kidney cancers, which have doubled over the last 20 years. The number of cancers caused by smoking in the UK has reached an all-time high, a charity has warned, with “six…

This is such a buzz kill. As it turns out, consuming just one alcoholic beverage per day — whether it be a pint of beer, a glass of wine or a shot of your favorite spirit — can shorten your lifespan by approximately two-and-a-half months, one expert asserts Dr. Tim Stockwell, of the Canadian Institute for Substance…

Inflammation is extremely common in modern times due to processed and fried food consumption. These tips can help reduce inflammation in your body and help you achieve overall well-being! Has it ever happened to you that after indulging in sugary sweets, fried food, restaurant meals or even just a heavy dinner, you wake up in the morning…

How does sunscreen work? What you need to know about SPF, UVA and UVB Summer is finally here, holidays are on the horizon and bottles of sunscreen are being dusted off from the back of the bathroom cupboard. This is often the time of the year when we start thinking about skin protection – even if we…

What are singles looking for in that “special someone”? Is it a deep connection through shared interests? What about good looks? A new survey finds many Americans actually want to date someone who will treat them to the finer things in life. It turns out that nearly half of adults are attracted to people in a higher…

Have you ever thrown a barely worn shirt into the laundry just because you wore it once? You’re not alone. In fact, a new study explains that our obsession with cleanliness and sheer hatred of “disgust” are evolutionary phenomena passed down from generation to generation. At first glance, it sounds like a pretty good thing, right? Who…

This is not ha-pea news for vegans. While experts extol the health and environmental benefits of a diet free of animal products, new research suggests that consuming ultra-processed vegan food can increase the risk of heart death. Ultra-processed foods include packaged goods, drinks, cereals and ready-to-eat products that contain colors, emulsifiers, flavors and other additives. UPFs are…

Prince Bhojwani never thought of himself as a negative person, until three trips to the hospital in one month forced him to reconsider. Before May 2018, he was a healthy but chronically worried start-up founder who regularly did 20-mile (32-kilometer) bike rides. When he suddenly became barely able to walk, with blurry vision and spiking blood pressure,…

Nowadays, it seems like kids and teens are more likely to have a favorite streamer than a favorite TV show. They get a lot of their entertainment from creators on video game livestreaming platforms (VGLSPs) like Twitch, but those also contain advertisements, too. According to new research, unhealthy food and drink ads on VGLSPs are linked to…

When it comes to cruising on the high seas, the world is divided into three camps: Those who loathe it (I’m not friends with any of them), those who adore it (yours truly), and those who adore it so much that they happily fork out US$2 million (S$2.69 million) to USD$15 million for their very own apartment…

I was taking a group class at an art studio – using a pottery wheel. The instructor moved among the learners, offering help. However, she passed by me one, two, three times, even though I’d raised my hand for help. I suddenly realized why. I’m older. It took a while to click. Not because I’m in cognitive…

Girls in the United States, especially those from racial minorities and lower-income backgrounds, are starting their periods at a younger age than ever before. This trend, known as early menarche, is raising concerns among health experts. Moreover, researchers from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health say one of several factors that may be the cause…

College is supposed to be a landmark moment in a young adult’s life, bringing newfound freedom and, hopefully, happiness. However, an alarming new study finds the stresses and traumas of being a college student today are taking an immense toll on mental health. Researchers from the University of Alabama at Birmingham have discovered rising rates of both…

He’s in his terribly talented twos. A diminutive da Vinci from Germany is selling his paintings for up to $7,000 — and they’re flying off the shelves. Young Laurent Schwarz’s appreciation for art was first noticed on a family vacation last fall, when his family found it difficult to wrest him away from the activities room at…

The simplest tool to calm anxiety is literally a step away. A survey of 2,000 Americans with outdoor spaces at home finds that 94 percent agree that the simple act of stepping away and going outside helps them relax when they’re stressed or dealing with anxiety. On average, Americans believe it takes about nine minutes to calm…

As we age, it’s not uncommon to experience some degree of cognitive decline – a frustrating reality for many older adults. But what if there were a way to slow down or even prevent this age-related brain deterioration? Exciting new research from the emerging field of Nutritional Cognitive Neuroscience suggests that the answer may lie in the…

Eating while distracted is one of the easiest ways to overeat. When you go to the movies and get a large popcorn, think about how easy it is to eat a ton of salty snacks while watching the big screen. Now, think about how much less likely you are to overeat if you’re just sitting down in…

Every breath you take could be full of invisible plastic particles invading your body. Now, scientists in Australia know where this plastic pollution is building up in our bodies. A groundbreaking study by a team at the University of Technology Sydney reveals a concern far more intimate and invisible than smog or smoke: microplastics and nanoplastics, tiny…

They have long been commonplace for celebrities and the super-rich, but in recent years prenuptial agreements have filtered into the real world, too. Solicitors have reported big rises in requests for the legal deals, but what are the factors behind the trend – and is it here to stay? As Olivia* was picking her wedding dress, she…

Aishwarya Rai’s glitzy Cannes Red Carpet gown deserves a party of its own A new day at Cannes comes along with a new layer of fashion. An array of celebrities from across the globe have already walked the Cannes red carpet and Aishwarya Rai was one of them. After serving a stunning sartorial statement on the red…

These nutrition experts have a T-bone to pick with four kinds of foods — and one type of beverage — they say can lead to cancer. Studies have shown that a person’s diet can affect their chances of developing several types of cancer, with experts promoting the consumption of whole grains, vegetables, fruit and beans to lower…

(© Jacob Lund – stock.adobe.com)NEW YORK — Now Hiring! Work From Home! Position requires strong ability to multitask. The successful applicant will be able to plan and prepare nutritious meals, while maintaining mountains of clean laundry. She can provide tutoring, nursing, counseling and therapy sessions on an as-needed basis. In addition, applicants should be available for various…

Including “Sent from my iPhone” at the bottom of an email signals mobile correspondence, that gives room for an understanding if there is an error in the content. Often, people will forgive you for careless mistakes if they know that the email was sent using a mobile device. The Netflix miniseries Baby Reindeer has the audience all…

Thailand, one of the most popular tourist destinations among Indians, has recently made headlines by extending its visa exemption program for visitors from India. According to a report in Bloomberg, this extension allows Indian tourists to explore Thailand without the need for a visa until November 11, 2024. Removing visa requirements for Indian travellers aims to draw…

UPFs have become the dietary devil of our time, as research shows they raise the risk of heart disease and type-2 diabetes It seems like only yesterday we could enjoy our toast and cereal in the morning without a care in the world. Not anymore. Research published in the The British Medical Journal (BMJ) shows that eating…

Pain can come in many forms, but a new poll has arrived at one unsettling conclusion: Nearly a third of Americans are in a constant state of pain. Three in 10 Americans say they haven’t had a pain-free day in more than a month, with 28 percent adding they feel some kind of pain every single day.…

Isha Ambani exudes the magic of floral elegance in a timeless bespoke sari gown designed by couturier Rahul Mishra. Envisioned by renowned celebrity fashion stylist Anaita Shroff Adajania and Rahul, the hand embroidered ensemble commemorates Met Gala 2024 official dress code ‘The Garden of Time’. Ahead of her attendance at the 2024 Costume Institute exhibition at the…

French bakers cooked the world’s longest baguette on Sunday at 140.53 metres (461 ft), reclaiming a record for one of the nation’s best-known emblems taken by Italy for five years. The baguette, about 235 times longer than the traditional one, was made in Suresnes in the suburbs of Paris during an event for the French confederation of…

A Kentucky angler has found himself back in Texas to reel in some massive monsters. Art Weston, state and world record fisherman, returned to Sam Rayburn Lake in the hope of setting another International Game and Fishing Association record. Last year, with the help of professional fishing guide Captain Kirk Kirkland, Weston set the all-tackle world record…

We all know that exercise is good for our health, but the intricate ways in which physical activity affects our bodies at the cellular and molecular level have remained largely a mystery. Now, a seminal new study by the Molecular Transducers of Physical Activity Consortium (MoTrPAC) has shed new light on the complex and far-reaching effects of…

Amidst the summer heat, the rise in mumps cases in Delhi-NCR has raised concern. Here are signs and symptoms you must know along with preventive tips. After an outbreak in Kerala, mumps cases are now on rise in Delhi, NCR and mostly affecting children from the age group of 6-7 years. The viral infection caused by paramyxovirus…

Doctors are still your best bet to treat cardiovascular issues over artificial intelligence. In a new study conducted at Washington State University, researchers evaluated ChatGPT-4’s ability to assess the risk of a heart attack risk among simulated patients with chest pain. The generative AI system provided inconsistent conclusions and failed to match methods used by doctors to…

Tourists can expect a future where visiting world hotspots will come with extra charges or further restrictions – with many places already taking steps depending on the pressures faced by their communities. Growing tourism numbers are placing popular destinations under extra pressure – due to various factors including environmental and residential concerns. Here are some locations limiting…

As surgical treatments continue to rise, Olivia Petter asks what happens when people all strive towards the same facial features Take a look at the faces around you. Notice anything? The shapes of people’s eyes all tilting up in the same way towards their hairline? Pouts that pucker up with perfect uniformity? Cheekbones that protrude almost violently…

In today’s digital age, social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) have become an integral part of our daily lives, particularly for young adults. A recent study conducted by researchers at The Ohio State University has revealed that even subtle differences in the wording of social media messages can significantly influence college students’ beliefs about depression, anxiety,…

Taking an elevator is a wonderful convenience, but a new study finds it’s not doing anything for your longevity. Instead, researchers have found that opting to take the stairs can help you live a significantly longer life. Specifically, climbing a few flights of stairs each day slashes a person’s risk of cardiovascular disease and death — even…

Fish is often hailed as a nutritional heavy hitter that provides a slew of health benefits. Rich in essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein and a variety of vitamins and minerals, seafood can make for a solid choice in an overall balanced diet. Not every type of fish, however, is a slam dunk from…

While some health myths may seem harmless, believing in them can lead to ineffective treatments or unnecessary worries. Health myths are equivalent to unchecked rumours; both can lead to unnecessary panic, confusion, and potentially harmful consequences if allowed to spread. But before we discuss these myths at length, let’s take a short walk down memory lane. Remember…

Myopia, or the need for corrected vision to focus or see objects at a distance, has become a lot more common in recent decades. Some even consider myopia, also known as nearsightedness, an epidemic. Optometry researchers estimate that about half of the global population will need corrective lenses to offset myopia by 2050 if current rates continue…

Gustav Klimt’s “Portrait of Miss Lieser”, a painting of a young woman left unfinished when the Austrian artist died, sold at auction on Wednesday for 30 million euros ($32 million) despite open questions about its subject and previous ownership. The work was long thought to have been lost when in fact it was hanging in a private…

OSLO, Norway — We’ve all heard the phrase “use it or lose it” when it comes to keeping our minds sharp as we age. But did you know your career choice could play a big role in how well your brain ages over time? According to new research out of Norway, having a mentally stimulating job during…

Move over, Ozempic finger, Ozempic face and Ozempic butt — say hello to Ozempic personality. The latest transformative outcome of the buzzy weight loss drug may be the most profound yet, with a growing number of patients claiming that the GLP-1 medication — and others like it — have caused anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation, even as…

People are living longer, and daily life is getting more expensive. It may be time to rethink the timeline for leaving the workforce. Handing in your proverbial badge as a sexagenarian has been the goal for many workers around the world: turning 65 would open a golden portal to retirement. Yet increasingly, the idea of stepping away…

World Health Day is celebrated on April 7 each year across the globe to raise awareness amongst the general public about widespread health issues and honour the contributions made by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The day focuses on promoting the overall well-being of the population, highlighting grave ailments and contemporary illnesses plaguing the world’s population, and…

Eclipse events can cause weird weather conditions, radio interference and changes in animal behavior A rare occurrence in orbit could lead to some strange happenings here on Earth. The North American solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, is expected to hit totality in 15 U.S. states. What can Americans expect to happen in the sky as well…

When it comes to living your best life, location matters. Some cities go above and beyond to promote the well-being of their residents, whether it’s by ensuring access to nutritious food, providing ample recreational facilities, or keeping healthcare costs affordable. But in other places, maintaining good health can be an uphill battle. To that point, in its…

In a recent poll by Taste Atlas, India’s Rogan Josh and Galouti Kebab ranked 26th and 27th among the world’s top lamb dishes. Originating from Kashmir, Rogan Josh boasts fiery flavours and a vibrant red hue, influenced by Persian and Mughal cuisines. Meanwhile, Galouti Kebab, hailing from Lucknow, melts in the mouth, showcasing Uttar Pradesh’s rich culinary…

So much for the van-tasy. The dream of ditching expensive apartments for Instagram-worthy nomadic RV adventures and endless excitement took off at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. But the #VanLife movement shows signs of slowing amid return-to-office mandates and high gas prices, as trailblazers spill about the speed bumps in their journeys, including unforeseen repair costs,…

The past may be over, but is it ever really past? Researchers from Linköping University explain that how fit middle-aged men were during their youth appears to have a connection to their heart health today. More specifically, men who were in shape as adolescents showed a much lower risk of atherosclerosis close to 40 years later. Atherosclerosis…

April Fools’ Day, though an unofficial holiday, is widely popular across the world. All you want to know about its history and significance. The day to share jokes, pull pranks and laugh generously, April Fools’ Day, though an unofficial holiday, is widely popular across the world. You may not get an off from work or school on…

Picture this: It’s been a long day, and you’re feeling a bit down. But then, you take a sip of cool, refreshing water, and suddenly, your mood starts to lift. Sound familiar? If so, you’re not alone. A new survey suggests that staying hydrated might just be the key to unlocking more joy in your daily life.…

We all know that regular exercise is good for our health, but did you know it could also be the key to a better night’s sleep? A new study suggests that consistent physical activity over the long term — and we’re talking about as few as two 30-minute sessions weekly — is linked to a lower risk…

We’re no longer in the heyday of HIIT (high-intensity interval training) and CrossFit. Now, low-impact and functional fitness workouts are all the rage for American adults. Why it matters: As longevity becomes a primary health focus, more adults are prioritizing workouts that help them in the long-term by being easier on the body and improving strength and…

In a world where plastic is literally in the air, a concerning new study finds that people with heart disease may have more plastic than plaque in their arteries. In fact, researchers in Italy discovered that more than half of the patients they examined had detectable microplastics and even tinier nanoplastics mixed in with the plaque in…

International Women’s Day is marked on March 8 every year across the globe. It is a day to honour and recognise women’s resilience, strength, and power. On this day, people also take time to consider the work still left to be done in the ongoing battle for gender equality. In 2024, the theme for International Women’s Day…

Do you really need to take 10,000 steps a day to stay in good health? Although several studies have shown that you can likely stay healthy taking half as many steps, a new report finds 10,000 is still a good goal for certain people. Specifically, those who sit all day long. A comprehensive study involving more than…

Drinking two liters or more per week of artificially sweetened beverages — the equivalent of a medium-sized fast-food diet soda a day — raised the risk of an irregular heartbeat called atrial fibrillation by 20% when compared to people who drank none, a new study found. Known as A-fib, atrial fibrillation is an irregular heartbeat often described…

Coffee in the morning is a ritual for many people — but is it ever too early in the a.m. to indulge? Brewing a cup or a pot of coffee as soon as you wake up might not give you the biggest energy boost throughout the day, according to sleep experts. Dr. Deborah Lee, a U.K.-based doctor,…