News

Talking to pets as if they are people may do more than entertain our furry friends — it could reflect and even strengthen vital emotional skills for their human companions, according to emerging research and expert analysis. As pet ownership grows steadily in Thailand and worldwide, scientists and psychologists are delving deeper into the social and psychological benefits of treating pets as conversational partners, with recent studies suggesting that these interactions are closely linked to seven distinct emotional strengths.

A surge of curiosity has swept Thai social feeds as people ask what the “G” in 5G stands for. The term simply means “generation,” but understanding it helps explain why higher generations matter for speed, latency, and new services.

5G represents more than a fact about letters. In a connected society, generations of wireless technology shape how Thai people communicate, work, learn, and entertain themselves. From 1G analog voice to 4G mobile broadband, each leap has reshaped daily life. Now, 5G is expanding nationwide—with faster speeds, ultra-reliable connections, and enablers like the Internet of Things and smart-city applications. Public understanding supports adoption, digital literacy, and safe technology use.

As Thailand’s society becomes increasingly aware of mental health challenges, especially post-pandemic, many are grappling with the often unseen social costs of depression. Recent global research and lived experiences—like that described in Slate’s recent advice column about a decade-old friendship tested by one friend’s withdrawal and history of depression—highlight a growing dilemma: when a person’s struggle with a common illness like depression begins to erode the very bonds that once provided support and joy, what are friends to do? slate.com

A growing number of Thais and health-conscious individuals worldwide are investing in dietary supplements marketed for gut health, seeking promises of improved digestion, immunity, and overall well-being. However, recent research and expert advice suggest that many popular gut health supplements may not provide the benefits they claim—and, in some cases, could even be harmful. According to registered dietitians featured in a June 2025 analysis by EatingWell, widely consumed products such as over-the-counter probiotics, greens powders, digestive enzymes, and antacids should generally be approached with caution—or skipped altogether—in favor of a wholesome, fiber-rich diet and lifestyle changes (EatingWell).

A new study points to the promise of a fasting-mimicking diet (FMD) for people living with type 2 diabetes in Thailand and beyond. This approach aims to reproduce fasting’s metabolic benefits while allowing limited nutrient intake, offering a non-drug option to help improve blood sugar control.

Type 2 diabetes is a growing public health challenge in Thailand. Sedentary lifestyles and changes in diet contribute to rising cases. Effective blood sugar management is essential to prevent kidney disease, nerve damage, and heart problems. A dietary strategy that complements medical care could be especially valuable in Thai communities where meals commonly feature rice and noodles.

A new study has brought hope to millions living with type 2 diabetes globally and in Thailand, revealing that a fasting-mimicking diet (FMD) may significantly improve blood sugar control. The latest findings, detailed in Medical News Today, suggest that adopting an eating pattern that simulates the effects of fasting without total food deprivation could play a valuable role in diabetes management.

Type 2 diabetes is a mounting concern in Thailand, where shifting dietary habits and increasingly sedentary lifestyles contribute to rising rates of the condition. Blood sugar regulation remains the cornerstone of diabetes treatment, with poorly controlled glucose levels linked to complications such as kidney disease, nerve damage, and cardiovascular issues. The possibility that a non-pharmaceutical dietary approach can help ease this burden is particularly relevant for Thai patients navigating both medical and cultural food practices.

A new report spotlighting “time vampires”—those small but persistent inefficiencies that waste our daily hours—has revealed why so many Thais feel perennially busy despite advances in productivity tools and digital conveniences. The Psychology Today article “5 Time Vampires Everyone Should Watch Out For” written by a clinical psychologist, offers practical insights into how seemingly minor habits add up to a significant drain on our lives, a finding with deep resonance in Thai society where busyness is often equated with virtue.

As Thailand continues to embrace health-conscious eating, a buzz has emerged around one question: which berry truly packs the greatest nutritional punch? From the tangy strawberry fields of Samoeng to imported blueberries lining Bangkok’s supermarket shelves, berries have become a local staple and a symbol of premium nutrition. A recent wave of research and international dietitian commentary suggests that while all common berries—blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries—offer unique health supershots, choosing the “healthiest” is not as simple as picking a single berry from the basket. With varying concentrations of antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, each berry brings its own strengths. So, what does the latest research say, and how does it matter for Thai consumers seeking optimal wellbeing through diet?

A global study indicates certain gut microbes can absorb and store PFAS, a group of persistent pollutants often called forever chemicals. Researchers say this microbial behavior could lead to probiotic approaches that help the body excrete these toxins. PFAS contamination is a concern in Thailand, found in groundwater near industrial sites and in the broader food chain, underscoring the potential relevance of this science for Thai public health.

PFAS are used in waterproofing, packaging, cosmetics, and firefighting foams. Their chemical stability causes accumulation in soil, water, and living beings, with links to cancers, kidney damage, developmental issues, and hormonal disruption. In Thailand, groundwater near industrial areas has shown PFAS presence, raising concerns about daily exposure and the safety of food and consumer products. Public health authorities advocate tighter controls and cleaner environments.

Kyoto, Japan’s fabled city of tranquil temples and ancient tradition, is groaning under the weight of a tourism boom so intense that even its famed serenity seems to be fading. As foreign visitors surge to record highs, experts and locals are asking: Has the search for ‘real Japan’ turned Kyoto into a tourist trap, and what lessons does this overtourism crisis hold for other Asia-Pacific destinations, including Thailand?

Kyoto’s growing pains are a parable for the age of global wanderlust. Once famed for the hush of its geisha districts, quiet lanes, and mossy Zen gardens, the city now wears the marks of its billion-yen popularity. According to the report in New York Magazine’s Intelligencer (nymag.com), the city welcomed almost 37 million international visitors in 2024—a staggering leap from 6 million in 2011. This year’s arrivals are running another 25% higher. The allure? Social media’s stylized images, a favorable currency rate, and the ease of digital navigation have made Kyoto more accessible than ever. But the impact is visceral: iconic streets pack thick with streams of photo-chasing travelers, while local culture contorts to accommodate the global demand.

Kyoto’s tourism boom has tested the city’s serene identity. Record visitor numbers, boosted by social media and favorable exchange rates, strain narrow lanes and sacred sites. The question for Thai travelers and policymakers is how to sustain economic benefits while protecting culture and daily life.

Recent data shows Kyoto welcomed nearly 37 million international visitors in 2024, with numbers continuing to grow in 2025. The influx has transformed quiet streets into crowded corridors filled with photo seekers, challenging residents and the authenticity travelers seek. This serves as a cautionary tale: tourism can boost economies yet disrupt communities if not carefully managed.

Tiny plastic particles, no wider than a human hair, have made their way into an alarming new corner of human biology: the fluids surrounding eggs in women and sperm in men. The latest research, unveiled at the 2025 European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology conference and published in the journal Human Reproduction, provides the clearest evidence yet of microplastics’ persistent ability to infiltrate the most sensitive aspects of our bodies—raising serious questions about fertility, long-term health, and the true cost of our reliance on plastics (Earth.com; CNN).

A growing body of evidence and discussion is reframing exercise as more than a tool for weight loss. Research and everyday experience show that physical activity supports mental health, brain function, social connection, and overall well-being—often without measurable changes on the scale.

The conversation now centers on why people move and what keeps them engaged. Many grew up equating activity with losing weight, facing discouragement when results lagged. New voices encourage seeing movement as a source of joy, personal agency, and stress relief—not merely a means to sculpt the body. For some, this means swapping grueling routines for enjoyable options like pet-friendly jogs, weight training, group classes, or simple nature walks. The focus is on personal exploration and a friendlier relationship with one’s body.

Generation Alpha, children born roughly between 2010 and 2024, is shaping how Thai families raise the next generation. A mix of local studies and global analyses shows that parenting in a digital, diverse era requires intentional, culturally grounded approaches. Thai households face opportunities and challenges as they guide children toward resilience, curiosity, and responsibility.

Global research notes Generation Alpha’s digital fluency, openness to social progress, environmental awareness, and evolving expectations. A recent discussion highlights how even four-year-olds form strong opinions on climate, multiculturalism, and gender identity. In Thailand, this trend unfolds amid rapid digital change and shifting cultural landscapes, making local adaptation essential.

A panel of international experts has released the world’s first comprehensive, evidence-based guidelines for stretching. The report cuts through decades of conflicting advice and challenges common myths. Led by the Chair of Neuromotorics and Movement at the University of Bayreuth, the findings appear in the Journal of Sport and Health Science. The goal is to offer practical, science-backed guidance for athletes, therapists, and everyday exercisers.

Stretching is a familiar habit in Thailand—from Muay Thai warm-ups and pre-dawn jogs in Lumpini Park to community classes for seniors. Yet much traditional guidance on injury prevention and soreness relief may not hold up against current science. The new report arrives as Thailand’s health and fitness scene grows, with yoga in Chiang Mai and football academies in Bangkok incorporating stretching into training.

A team of elite international researchers has published the world’s first comprehensive, evidence-based recommendations for stretching, cutting through decades of conflicting advice and common misconceptions. The research, led by the Chair of Neuromotorics and Movement at the University of Bayreuth, was released this month in the Journal of Sport and Health Science, aiming to give practical, science-backed guidance to athletes, therapists, and everyday people alike (Medical Xpress).

For many Thai readers, stretching is a deeply ingrained daily practice, whether as part of traditional warm-ups in Muay Thai, pre-sunrise runs at Lumpini Park, or as a cherished ritual among the elderly at community exercise sessions. Yet few know that much of the stretching advice they follow—such as stretching to prevent injury or relieve soreness—may not hold up against modern scientific scrutiny. This new report is especially relevant at a time when health and fitness trends in Thailand, from yoga in Chiang Mai to football academies in Bangkok, are booming and often interwoven with stretching routines.

A wave of new research and cultural conversation is challenging the long-standing assumption that exercise’s primary purpose is to achieve physical ideals. Instead, experts and individuals are finding that the true benefits of moving our bodies reach far deeper—improving mental health, brain function, community connection, and overall well-being—regardless of changes on the bathroom scale.

The most recent discussion, highlighted in The Atlantic’s July 2025 newsletter by Isabel Fattal, asks why people move their bodies and what motivates them to keep going. As noted by contributors such as Xochitl Gonzalez and Julie Beck, many grew up linking exercise exclusively with weight loss, often battling cycles of discouragement. However, emerging thought leaders argue that reframing movement as a source of joy, agency, and mental relief—rather than simply a tool to sculpt bodies—opens the door for more sustainable and self-affirming habits. For some, this means trading high-intensity workouts for the pleasures of running with a pet, weight lifting, group classes, or even simple nature hikes. The emphasis is personal exploration and finding what fosters comfort and connection to one’s body (The Atlantic).

A groundbreaking new study has captured international attention, suggesting that what humans perceive in the present moment is actually a snapshot from up to 15 seconds in the past. This fascinating finding challenges longstanding assumptions about how the brain processes visual information and could have far-reaching implications for cognitive science, education, and even the design of safety protocols in everyday life (Times of India).

The research, conducted by a team of neuroscientists and recently highlighted in the international press, explores the mechanics of the brain’s ‘visual buffer’—a mental process where the brain accumulates and merges visual stimuli over a period of time. According to the study, rather than updating our internal picture of the world from instant to instant, our brains synthesize the last several seconds of visual inputs to create a stable, coherent scene. As a result, our conscious perception lags behind real-time events by approximately 15 seconds.

New global insights challenge the notion that parents alone determine whether children turn to crime. While family support remains vital, researchers emphasize that peers, school culture, and community context also shape youth behavior. The takeaway comes after a parent-support event hosted by the Ammar Empowerment Network, where a management professor stressed that blaming parents oversimplifies the issue.

In Thailand, rapid urbanization and intense academic pressures are tightening family strains. Current research and Thai data suggest that a parent-centered approach to preventing juvenile crime is insufficient. Youth behavior develops within a web of influences, with peers and school environments often carrying more weight as adolescence begins.

A new nationwide study reveals that pastors, traditionally seen as frontline counselors in their communities, are now providing less counseling than a decade ago, have fewer resources for referrals, and are increasingly isolated with their own struggles. The Lifeway Research survey, involving over 1,500 evangelical and Black Protestant pastors across the United States, underscores an important shift in how spiritual leaders participate in mental health care—a development with broad implications for faith communities worldwide, including Thailand.

More college students than ever before are choosing to major in psychology, drawn by the field’s versatility and its promise to help understand both themselves and others. Yet, as the latest research and economic data reveal, this boom comes with a significant financial catch for graduates. While the degree opens doors to a host of industries, the starting and mid-career salaries for psychology majors often lag behind those of peers in more specialized or technical disciplines—a tension now under scrutiny for both Thai and global students making career decisions in today’s changing economy (Newsweek/MSN).

A growing number of Thai students are choosing psychology for its versatility and its promise of understanding human behavior. Yet new data reveal a gap between expectations and earnings for graduates, prompting families and policymakers to rethink career paths in Thailand and beyond.

The rise of psychology is not sudden. Globally, it remains a top undergraduate choice, and interest has surged since 2020. In the United States, psychology accounted for about six percent of bachelor’s degrees in 2020–2021, reflecting cross-industry appeal. In Thailand, larger psychology cohorts are visible as awareness of mental health grows and school counseling expands, aided by media coverage of pandemic-era needs.

A recent study in Evolutionary Psychological Science shows that everyday illness-related noises—such as coughing and sniffling—can hinder learning even when they are not overtly distracting. The brain may be hardwired to detect illness signals, pulling attention away from tasks that require memory and problem solving. While the experiment took place with U.S. undergraduates, its implications are clear for Thai classrooms, offices, and study spaces as Thailand strengthens public health awareness and aims for better learning environments.

Depression changes how people connect, and in Thai communities it can strain long-standing friendships. A recent global reflection about a decade-old friendship tested by withdrawal highlights a common challenge: sustaining bonds when mental health reshapes interaction. The story reminds readers that depression is not just private pain; its effects ripple through social circles and test even the strongest relationships.

Depression alters social engagement. In the case discussed, one friend gradually stops meeting, stops replying, and becomes harder to reach. The narrative acknowledges the sadness and confusion friends feel and shows that withdrawal is both a symptom and a consequence of depression. For Thai readers, this points to the importance of recognizing early signs and offering steady, non-judgmental support.