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Constipation is a discomfort that many individuals globally encounter, manifesting as an occasional inconvenience or a persistent challenge. It’s no surprise, then, that finding effective relief is a shared priority. Recent insights from gastroenterologist Sandhya Shukla, M.D., highlight five potential remedies accessible through dietary supplements and everyday foods, offering new hope and strategies for those dealing with constipation.

Constipation affects around 16% of adults in the United States, illustrating its commonality and impact on daily life. This gastrointestinal issue can often lead to bloating, discomfort, and frustration. For many Thai readers, this might resonate closely given the noticeable dietary and lifestyle shifts toward more Western habits in urban areas like Bangkok. Specifically, these five supplements are now highlighted for their potential to alleviate constipation effectively: psyllium husk, specific strains of probiotics, magnesium oxide, polyethylene glycol, and, interestingly, prunes or prune juice.

In an intriguing development, scientists are uncovering the intricate workings of the brain that signal when we need to eat or drink. A recent study conducted by the Max Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence, in collaboration with the University of Regensburg and Stanford University, has found critical insights into how specific neurons within the brain’s amygdala may drive our basic urges to eat and drink. This discovery not only adds depth to our understanding of these essential functions but also opens new avenues for tackling conditions like obesity, anorexia, and even addiction.

Scientists have unveiled new insights into how our brain constructs and retrieves memories, focusing on the previously elusive engram cells and their complex network of connections. Recent research conducted at Trinity College Dublin highlights these neuronal structures and their role in memory formation and linkages, shifting the focus from individual neurons to networks of cells that hold and synchronize our life’s experiences.

The study, led by Dr. Tomás Ryan, centers around engram cells, specialized neurons responsible for capturing and storing distinct experiences. These cells form intricate networks that allow memories to be created and reactivated at a later time. This emerging understanding has profound implications for our conception of memory: memories aren’t merely etched into single neurons but rather exist as dynamic links between multiple cells.

In recent groundbreaking research, scientists have reinforced the link between the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and multiple sclerosis (MS), a debilitating disease affecting millions worldwide. This connection, initially identified by Professor Alberto Ascherio and his team, stems from their meticulous analysis of data from 10 million former military personnel in the United States. The study revealed that MS in individuals is almost consistently a delayed response following EBV infection, which is one of the most common viruses globally and a member of the herpes family.

In an era where protein intake is often heralded as the cornerstone of a healthy diet, a recent examination of the burgeoning industry of protein-enhanced foods poses critical questions about their actual health benefits. The lure of protein-packed yoghurts, pizzas, and even beverages is increasingly dominating fitness advice, drawing attention due to their perceived health advantages. However, a deeper dive into the science behind these products reveals a more nuanced reality.

In a climate where vitamin supplements saturate the market, an American physician’s advice could significantly influence consumer choices, including those in Thailand. Dr. Jaban Moore, a Kansas City-based functional medicine doctor, has highlighted potential adverse effects of specific synthetic vitamins and minerals and recommended more natural, bioavailable alternatives for maintaining optimal health.

Dr. Moore, whose holistic approach to health has gathered him a substantial social media following, suggests steering clear of certain widely-used supplements. In a compelling video, he warns against synthetic vitamin B12, magnesium oxide or citrate, and ferrous sulfate—suggesting that these compounds may pose health risks due to poor absorption and possible side effects, such as digestive distress and other systemic reactions.

Recent figures released by Portugal’s National Institute of Statistics reveal a troubling statistic: 32% of the Portuguese population experiences symptoms of anxiety, marking a significant public health concern. These findings, shared on World Health Day, highlight a gender disparity where 38.2% of women are affected compared to 24.7% of men. At more severe levels, the prevalence of anxiety is even starker, with 14.1% of women affected versus 6.2% of men.

A recent study has captured widespread attention by highlighting the significant impact of using screens before bedtime on sleep quality. According to the study, engaging in screen time before bed can increase your risk of insomnia by an alarming 59% while also reducing overall sleep time by approximately 24 minutes. These findings emphasize the urgent need for awareness regarding nighttime habits that could be subtly undermining sleep health.

This research is particularly relevant as the global population becomes increasingly dependent on digital devices for both work and leisure. In Thailand, the widespread usage of smartphones and tablets, especially among the younger generation, aligns with global trends. However, this study’s findings are a reminder of the potential consequences of such habits, sparking concerns that might resonate with tech-savvy Thais who have embraced digital lifestyles extensively.

In a recent study involving 280,000 seniors from Wales, researchers have reported a significant link between receiving the shingles vaccine and a reduced risk of developing dementia. According to the study, published in the prestigious journal Nature, seniors who were vaccinated against shingles were found to be 20% less likely to develop dementia over a period of seven years compared to those who were not vaccinated. This discovery supports the emerging theory that viruses impacting the nervous system can influence dementia risk and suggests that preventive measures for dementia might already be accessible.

A simple and quick exercise known as the sit-to-stand test (STS) has emerged as a powerful indicator of aging and health, offering insights into the body’s strength, balance, and cardiovascular health. The test, which involves standing up from a seated position repeatedly in a span of 30 seconds, might seem trivial, but its implications are profound for medical assessment, particularly among the elderly.

The sit-to-stand test is widely used in primary healthcare settings to evaluate health functioning. Jugdeep Dhesi, a consultant geriatrician at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust and professor of geriatric medicine at Kings College London, emphasizes its significance: “It tells us about their strength, their balance, and their flexibility,” she states. Research demonstrates a connection between lower scores in the test and risks of falls, cardiovascular issues, and even higher mortality.

In a world increasingly overwhelmed by wellness trends, dietary supplements have rapidly gained popularity with their promises of enhanced health and vitality. However, a recent article by Alice Levitt on AOL unveils a cautionary tale about taking excessive supplements that resonates globally, including in Thailand. The piece recounts Levitt’s personal journey through illness exacerbated by consuming over 20 supplements daily, highlighting the critical need for awareness around the safe use of dietary supplements.

A recent article from USA Today highlights a nutritional issue that is not just limited to the United States: the insufficient intake of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are crucial for maintaining various aspects of health, including heart function, cognitive health, and reducing inflammation. However, research indicates that more than 95% of American children and roughly two-thirds of adults are consuming less than the recommended amounts. This dietary gap is not unique to the U.S., and it could have significant implications for Thailand as well.

On this World Health Day, April 7, 2025, attention turns to the fundamental role of early childhood nutrition in lifelong health, harmonizing with this year’s theme “My Health, My Right.” As health disparities persist globally, this theme champions equitable access to vital healthcare services regardless of socioeconomic status. Central to this discussion is the nutritional care during a child’s initial years—a pivotal factor in shaping health outcomes far beyond early development stages.

In an exciting development from the University of Pennsylvania, researchers have introduced an innovative means to combat the spread of common viral infections through the use of antiviral chewing gum. Responding to the global challenge posed by infectious diseases highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers have focused on reducing transmission rates of influenza and herpes simplex viruses, which remain prevalent around the world. This approach is highlighted in a study published in Molecular Therapy.

In the quest for adequate daily vitamin intake, consumers increasingly turn to gummy vitamins, touted as a convenient and palatable alternative to traditional vitamin pills. This trend highlights a multibillion-dollar industry eager to make vitamin consumption easier for adults and children alike. Recently, Shyla Davis-Cadogan, a registered dietitian at the Virtual Nutrition Service Culina Health, discussed this topic in detail, shedding light on the comparative efficacy of gummy vitamins versus traditional tablets.

As Thailand’s residents embrace the beauty of the Lueang Dao (ดอกไม้แรกแย้ม) in full bloom this spring, the season also brings allergies that can affect eye health. It’s crucial to pay attention to essential vitamins and minerals that can bolster your eyesight and protect against common springtime irritants. Vitamins A, C, and E, as well as flavonoids, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids, play a significant role in supporting vision and counteracting the effects of allergies Times of India.

In a groundbreaking revelation, researchers from Harvard Medical School have underscored the significant role of dietary changes in enhancing cognitive reserve, thereby helping to stave off conditions such as dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and stroke. This research holds substantial promise for individuals seeking to prolong mental acuity and autonomy into their later years.

Cognitive reserve refers to the brain’s ability to creatively improvise and adapt when faced with challenges, effectively ‘finding another way’ to accomplish tasks. This ability is often credited to a lifetime of education and intellectual curiosity. The concept gained traction in the 1980s when researchers observed that some individuals, despite having brain changes indicative of Alzheimer’s disease, displayed no symptoms during their lifetime. This anomaly was attributed to their substantial cognitive reserves, which compensated for the neurological damages.

Magnesium, a vital mineral known for supporting brain function, nervous system health, and muscle activity, has gained attention with new insights into vegetarian sources that particularly benefit Thai dietary habits. An article by etimes.in, published on April 6th, highlights ten magnesium-rich foods that could enhance the nutritional profile of everyday meals in Thailand, resonating well with health-conscious vegetarians in the region.

Magnesium plays a crucial role in ensuring muscles, including the heart muscle, contract and relax properly. It also contributes significantly to strengthening bones and teeth. Given the diversity of vegetarian options available in Thailand, the inclusion of magnesium-rich foods could make a notable impact. Women are recommended to consume 310–320 mg of magnesium daily, while men should aim for 400–420 mg. A diet that integrates nuts, seeds, leafy greens, and whole grains can naturally achieve this intake.

As spring ushers in a season of vibrant blooms, many in Thailand might find this beauty shadowed by the discomfort of seasonal allergies. A recent study indicates that the pollen season now arrives approximately 20 days earlier and spans 10 days longer than it did in 1990. With pollen levels reportedly increased by 21%, the challenges faced by individuals with allergies have intensified globally, including in Thailand where allergic rhinitis affects approximately 27% of the population, according to local studies.

If you are consuming the typical modern diet, it’s likely you’re missing essential nutrients crucial for maintaining your health. Recent research highlights a growing concern over the underconsumption of certain key nutrients, notably fiber, calcium, vitamin D, and potassium, classified as “nutrients of public health concern” due to their significant impact on health outcomes. This trend, largely fueled by an increase in processed foods and a decline in fruit and vegetable intake, carries implications for the Thai population, particularly as global dietary patterns continue to shift.

In a landmark recognition of their transformative work on multiple sclerosis (MS), Dr. Alberto Ascherio from Harvard University and Dr. Stephen Hauser from the University of California, San Francisco, have been awarded the prestigious Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences, sharing a $3 million prize. This prize is notable for its size, significantly exceeding that of a Nobel Prize monetary award, and highlights research that has fundamentally redefined our understanding of MS, a neurodegenerative condition affecting millions globally.

In a recent article from experts on meal spacing published by Fox News and covered by numerous online platforms like MSN, nutritionists reveal that the optimal interval between meals may significantly impact health and weight management. It’s often recommended to wait approximately four to six hours between meals, ensuring adequate time for digestion and metabolic processes, a practice particularly beneficial in maintaining a healthy weight and supporting metabolic function.

Understanding the timing between meals is crucial, as it directly influences digestion and the body’s ability to manage energy levels efficiently. Waiting for a period longer than four hours ensures that the previous meal is fully digested and that essential nutrients are absorbed before introducing new food intake. This is supported by findings indicating that frequent, shorter eating intervals can strain digestion and destabilize metabolic rates. As stated by experts, prolonged intervals between meals help maintain routine energy levels without the spikes or crashes often associated with more frequent eating.

As temperatures rise and sunshine becomes more frequent during the spring and summer months, not only does the world around us change, but so does our brain. Recent research published by neuroscientists has unveiled intriguing ways that warmer weather impacts our mood, cognition, hormone levels, and even our decision-making processes. These findings reveal that our brains don’t just feel different in warmer months—they actually undergo subtle, measurable transformations.

When exposed to more sunlight, our brains produce increased levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a critical role in mood regulation. Studies show that sunlight exposure can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, proving particularly beneficial for individuals with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). The added sunlight not only enhances our mood but also promotes serotonin activity in regions of the brain associated with social interactions. This explains why people tend to feel more sociable and extroverted in the warmer seasons, with increased engagement in social activities and events.

As we embrace the refreshing transition into spring, attention is turning towards reimagining breakfast with anti-inflammatory ingredients that can energize and nurture the body. Inspired by new research into the benefits of anti-inflammatory diets, a series of nutritious and delicious breakfast ideas have become the focal point of conversation among health enthusiasts and nutrition experts alike. These culinary creations are designed not only to tantalize taste buds but also to boost overall wellness by harnessing the power of natural ingredients known for their anti-inflammatory properties.