Nutrition

A surge of fresh scientific evidence has upended conventional beliefs about protein intake, revealing how millions—even in Thailand—may be making critical mistakes about this essential nutrient. While protein is known as a crucial component of the Thai diet, a slew of misunderstandings, often propagated by marketing and habit, is leading to widespread shortfalls and poor choices affecting health, muscle strength, and aging across all age groups.

The latest research, gathered through interviews with dietitians and analysis of international nutrition studies, dives into six major mistakes people make regarding their daily protein, reshaping long-assumed dietary best practices. For Thai readers navigating an increasingly Western-influenced food environment, these findings signal an urgent need for re-examination, as protein requirements are not as simple—or as well met—as many believe.

Creatine has long supported athletic performance, but clinicians and researchers are now exploring its potential as a medical tool. A recent Medscape review prompts the question: could creatine move from gyms into hospital wards as a mainstream treatment option?

Creatine is historically known for boosting strength and speeding recovery. In Thailand, fitness trends align with global patterns, and creatine is familiar to university athletes and gym enthusiasts. Now researchers are examining benefits beyond performance, including support for muscle wasting, neurodegenerative conditions, brain injury recovery, and mood disorders.

Creatine, long hailed in athletic circles for its muscle-boosting prowess, is increasingly attracting the attention of clinicians and medical researchers as a potential therapeutic tool in medicine. The question now posed by recent scientific reviews, such as the one published in Medscape’s “Creatine: Is the Supplement Ready for Clinical Use?,” is whether creatine is truly ready to transition from gyms and fitness centres into hospital wards and clinics as a mainstream medical supplement.

A recent UK review identifies four dietary supplements with the strongest evidence for easing depressive symptoms: St. John’s wort, probiotics, vitamin D, and saffron. The analysis examined hundreds of trials across 64 over-the-counter products, reflecting growing global interest in self-care for mental wellbeing amid persistent stigma around psychiatric treatment. In Thailand, mental health data highlight the demand for affordable, accessible options. The Department of Mental Health estimates that more than 1.5 million residents experience depressive disorders, with many undiagnosed due to stigma or barriers to care. The global supplements market has surged to roughly 152 billion dollars, driven in part by social media promotion of mood-boosting products, though robust evidence for many supplements remains elusive.

A new review from researchers in the United Kingdom has highlighted four dietary supplements—St. John’s wort, probiotics, vitamin D, and saffron—that present the strongest evidence for easing depressive symptoms, according to an analysis published this week in Health.com (health.com). The study, which assessed hundreds of clinical trials covering 64 different over-the-counter supplements, arrives as Thailand and the world see surging interest in self-care for mental wellbeing amid persistent stigma around psychiatric treatment.

A recent health scare involving a woman whose daily use of turmeric supplements nearly led to fatal liver failure is raising alarms about the potential dangers of herbal supplements—a warning for Thai consumers as interest in natural remedies steadily grows. The case, reported by multiple news outlets in July 2025, details how a seemingly healthy 57-year-old woman began experiencing mild abdominal pain, progressing to nausea, dark urine, extreme fatigue, and eventually jaundice—signs of acute liver damage. Doctors later traced her condition to a high-dose turmeric supplement she had begun taking for joint pain, sparking a wider discussion about supplement safety and regulation.

Supplements are often viewed in Thailand as convenient boosters for health, promising better skin, stronger muscles, or a shield against illness. But new research and warnings compiled by international health authorities show that misusing these products—often unwittingly—can quietly damage vital organs such as the liver and kidneys, with consequences that may only become apparent after years of harm (Times of India). As dietary supplement use grows across Thailand—especially among urban consumers, fitness enthusiasts, and the elderly—it is essential for the public to understand the hidden risks behind the glossy marketing claims.

Recent evidence is prompting a thoughtful reexamination of how often we eat, especially for Thai readers where food culture is central to daily life. The core question remains: does eating more than three meals daily help or hinder health? In Thailand, with its vibrant street-food scene and communal meals, the topic hits close to home.

Experts caution that no single answer fits everyone. Some research suggests small, frequent meals can curb appetite, prevent overeating, and sustain energy—benefits that may aid people with reflux or other digestive concerns. Yet there is a cautionary note: increasing meal frequency without mindful choices can backfire. Calorie-dense snacks and sugary treats can contribute to weight gain and disrupt natural hunger cues, potentially stressing the digestive system.

A growing body of international research is challenging common beliefs about protein. For many Thai readers, this means rethinking how much protein is needed, when to eat it, and which sources matter most for muscle health, aging, and overall well-being.

New analyses draw on expert interviews and nutrition findings to identify six common protein mistakes. As Thailand encounters more Western eating patterns, the takeaway is clear: protein needs are more individualized than many assume, and daily habits should adapt accordingly.

Supplements remain popular in Thailand as quick wellness boosts—from brighter skin to better workouts. New research and warnings from international health authorities show that misuse, even if unintended, can quietly harm the liver and kidneys, with effects that may take years to appear. As supplement use rises among urban residents, fitness enthusiasts, and seniors, readers deserve clear guidance on the hidden risks behind glossy marketing.

In a fast-paced society, many view pills as shortcuts to well-being. Herbal products such as comfrey, kava, and high-dose green tea extracts are marketed as natural solutions. Yet scientific reviews increasingly link some herbal supplements to liver injury. Data from independent studies indicate green tea extracts can contribute to liver damage even in seemingly healthy individuals, underscoring the need for caution.

A major international study questions the traditional “calories in, calories out” model for weight loss. It finds ultra-processed foods, or UPFs, may drive obesity independent of total calorie intake. The findings, published in a leading scientific journal, prompt urgent discussions among health professionals and raise important questions for Thailand’s public health strategy and evolving food culture.

The study shows that not all calories are equal. In a controlled trial, participants ate diets matched for calories, fiber, macronutrients, sugar, and sodium. One diet was rich in UPFs; the other emphasized minimally processed, whole foods. Those on the UPF-rich plan consumed more calories, felt fuller less often, and gained more weight despite similar activity. The message is clear: diet quality matters as much as quantity.

A recent medical case highlights the potential risks of high-dose turmeric capsules used for joint pain. A 57-year-old woman developed acute liver injury after taking a supplement labeled for enhanced absorption with black pepper. She experienced abdominal pain, nausea, dark urine, fatigue, and jaundice, leading to hospitalization. Doctors credit stopping the product and intensive care for preventing a life-threatening outcome.

Turmeric remains a familiar ingredient in Thai cuisine and traditional remedies. Yet the surge in imported and online supplements means many products are far more potent than culinary turmeric. Data from Thai health authorities show a gradual rise in adverse effects linked to dietary supplements, with liver toxicity among the key concerns. This underlines the need for clear warnings and stricter dosage controls across the market.

A groundbreaking international study has shattered a long-held tenet of public health: that simply eating fewer calories and exercising more is the surest route to weight control. Instead, the research points to ultra-processed foods (UPFs) — industrial formulations containing five or more ingredients — as powerful, independent drivers of the global obesity epidemic, casting doubt on the decades-old mantra of ‘calories in, calories out’ as the full story behind weight gain. The findings, published this week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) and widely reported in reputable outlets such as the Washington Post, are sparking urgent debates among health experts and raising vital questions for Thailand’s food culture and public health strategy [Washington Post][PNAS article summary].

A new spotlight on how our meal frequency affects health has ignited debate among nutritionists and the public, following recently published research and expert commentary. The question—does eating more than three meals a day nurture or hinder our well-being?—is especially pertinent in Thailand, where traditional eating habits sometimes differ from Western norms.

Nutrition researchers and physicians have been exploring whether consuming more than three meals a day—sometimes in the form of frequent, small meals or “grazing”—delivers true health benefits or unintentionally undermines metabolic, digestive, or weight outcomes. The issue is complex, and the implications for Thai society—where bustling street food culture often promotes frequent snacking—are profound.

Daily use of pre-workout supplements—commonplace among fitness-minded Thais and athletes—may not be as risk-free or effective as many believe, according to recent research and expert guidance. While these supplements are marketed for energy, strength, and performance, relying on them daily can cause diminishing returns, potential health risks, and a dependency that shifts the very nature of exercise motivation, new studies and international experts caution (Verywell Health).

Thailand’s booming fitness culture is mirrored in Bangkok’s bustling gyms and the popularity of national sporting events, making the latest international research highly relevant locally. Many Thais use pre-workouts as powder, drinks, or pills to enhance workouts—sometimes without fully considering the risks or regulations. As global sports nutrition finds its place in the Thai urban landscape, understanding the safety and effectiveness of supplement routines has never been more important.

A growing number of Thai gym-goers rely on pre-workout products to boost energy and performance. New research and expert guidance suggest daily use may not be as safe or effective as many think, and it can affect motivation and training quality over time.

Thailand’s vibrant fitness scene—from Bangkok studios to regional competitions—makes these findings highly relevant. Many Thais use powders, drinks, or pills before training, but awareness of risks and regulatory details remains uneven. As sports nutrition becomes more common in urban life, understanding how to use these products safely is increasingly important.

A new wave of research is shining light on the effects of vitamin D supplements on blood pressure, sparking hope among those tackling hypertension—a condition affecting one in four Thai adults. While vitamin D has long been praised for its benefits to bone health, immunity, and muscle function, questions about its potential to lower blood pressure are now coming to the fore. Recent findings suggest a nuanced reality: vitamin D’s impact on blood pressure largely depends on specific individual health factors, especially vitamin D status and existing blood pressure levels.

A new look at vitamin D and blood pressure highlights how individual factors shape outcomes. In Thailand, hypertension affects about one in four adults, while vitamin D deficiency is common among older people and city dwellers. Vitamin D supports bones, immunity, and muscles, but its impact on blood pressure is not straightforward. Research suggests benefits may occur mainly for those who are deficient, have hypertension, or share other risk factors.

A groundbreaking new study tracking over 540,000 adults for nearly 30 years has ignited alarm across the global health community, revealing a significant link between diets high in ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and an increased risk of early death. Published in July 2025 and widely cited by international health experts, the research found that participants consuming the most ultra-processed foods had about a 10% higher risk of dying early, compared to those with the lowest consumption levels. With ultra-processed foods now a staple in many Thai diets, these findings carry urgent implications for national health and daily food choices.

As sunlight in Thailand blazes year-round, questions often arise about how much exposure is necessary to support healthy vitamin D levels. New research and updated guidelines released in 2024–2025 reveal that the answer is more nuanced than previously thought, with recommendations balancing the benefits of vitamin D synthesis against the risks of skin damage. Understanding this balance is crucial for Thai residents, who, despite living in a tropical climate, are not immune to vitamin D deficiency.

Vitamin D supports bone health, muscle function, and immune response. In Thailand’s sunny climate, it’s tempting to assume everyone easily meets their needs. Yet recent research and updated guidelines from 2024–2025 reveal a more nuanced picture. Thai readers should understand how to balance sun exposure with skin health and practical dietary choices.

The link between Vitamin D and health is well established. Deficiency can contribute to bone disorders in children and adults, increasing the risk of falls and fractures. Some evidence also points to weaker muscles and, in older adults, a higher injury risk. Newer studies suggest connections to mental well-being, underscoring the broad importance of adequate Vitamin D levels. Data from public-health authorities highlight the health consequences of deficiency when sun exposure, diet, or absorption are limited.

Thailand is witnessing a rapid rise in dietary supplements sold in Bangkok pharmacies and online. The growth mirrors a global wellness trend and reflects rising urbanization, digital marketing, and a growing middle class seeking proactive health options. This piece analyzes the market dynamics, health realities, and implications for Thai consumers and policymakers.

Globally, a large share of adults uses supplements daily, contributing to a multibillion-dollar industry with thousands of products. In Thailand, the nutritional supplement sector surpassed US$4.1 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach about US$5.5 billion by 2030, according to industry analysts. The momentum is driven by convenience, accessibility, and a desire to support preventive health alongside traditional medicine and nutrition.

A large international study followed more than 540,000 adults for nearly three decades and found a link between diets rich in ultra-processed foods and a higher risk of premature death. The research indicates those with the highest intake of ultra-processed foods faced about a 10% greater chance of dying earlier than those who consumed the least. With UPFs common in Thai diets, these findings have immediate relevance for health and daily eating habits.

Dietary supplements have become an omnipresent feature of modern wellness culture, with shelves in drugstores, supermarkets, and online platforms crowded by an ever-expanding array of vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and herbal extracts. While the United States remains a major hub of the supplement industry, this rapid growth is mirrored in Thailand, where the sector has seen unprecedented expansion over the past decade. This news report investigates the forces powering the supplement surge, the health realities behind the claims, and what these trends mean for Thai consumers, health regulators, and policymakers.