News

In a groundbreaking study, researchers have unveiled that letting our minds wander during simple tasks can enhance learning, challenging the long-held belief that focused attention is always necessary for effective learning. Conducted by Péter Simor and colleagues at Eötvös Loránd University, the research, published in JNeurosci, examined the impact of spontaneous mind wandering on low-effort learning tasks. It revealed that participants who allowed their minds to drift performed just as well, if not better, than when they were fully focused, highlighting the cognitive benefits of states akin to daydreaming.

Recent research underscores the profound impact early life experiences have on shaping the brain’s communication networks, subsequently affecting cognition. This study, which delves into the formation of what are metaphorically deemed the brain’s “communication superhighways,” reveals that these pathways are crucial in cognitive development, particularly during the formative early years.

Understanding how early experiences shape brain development is of significant interest, not only within the scientific community but also for educators and policymakers in Thailand, where childhood development is a growing focus. The study highlights that the environments in which children grow up—whether rich in opportunities or fraught with challenges—can significantly alter neural connectivity, thereby affecting cognitive abilities later in life.

In the burgeoning world of nutrition science, protein consumption has surged to the forefront, revealing insights into how a daily intake of 100 grams of protein can be transformative for the human body. U.S.-based dietitian Trista Best outlines how such a protein-rich diet benefits muscle growth, metabolism, and fat loss. This nutritional strategy can prove particularly advantageous for individuals in Thailand interested in optimizing their health and fitness routines.

The physiological role of protein is well-established, with essential amino acids acting as the building blocks for muscle protein synthesis (MPS). Consuming 100 grams of protein daily facilitates MPS, crucial for muscle repair and growth, especially following exercise. Best emphasizes, “Protein intake plays a crucial role in muscle growth, metabolism, and fat loss. It provides the essential amino acids needed for muscle protein synthesis, helping repair and build muscle tissue, especially after physical activity.” This dietary approach can significantly benefit athletes and fitness enthusiasts in Thailand, where sports such as Muay Thai and sepak takraw demand optimal muscle performance.

In recent days, global financial markets have been roiled by turbulent conditions, reminiscent of past systemic shocks. This period has exposed hidden vulnerabilities in financial institutions, highlighting the critical role of stress tests. Stress tests, designed to simulate extreme financial conditions, have long been a tool for assessing the resilience of banks and financial institutions. These simulations become especially relevant when real-world scenarios stress the system, revealing weaknesses that could otherwise remain unnoticed.

A recent study published in Neurology has uncovered alarming associations between heavy alcohol consumption and significant brain health risks, bringing this global health concern closer to home for Thai readers. The research highlights that consuming eight or more alcoholic drinks per week is linked to an increased risk of brain lesions known as hyaline arteriolosclerosis, which are associated with memory and cognitive impairments. This finding is particularly pertinent for a society where social drinking is common, raising awareness about the potential long-term impacts on brain health.

In an intriguing revelation for both health enthusiasts and the nutrition-conscious, a recent article highlights nine fruits that surprisingly pack a significant protein punch. While fruits are typically celebrated for their abundance of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, this new perspective sheds light on their role in contributing to daily protein intake—a dietary component often associated with meat, dairy, and legumes. Katherine Zeratsky, R.D.N., from the Mayo Clinic, underscores that despite not being primary protein sources, fruits do provide essential nutrients while contributing to protein intake. This insight invites consumers, especially those who struggle to reach their protein targets, to reconsider fruits as a valuable addition to their diet.

An investigative series by the Chicago Sun-Times has brought to light the stark and often perilous consequences of systemic failures in mental health services. This series zeroes in on long-term, untreated mental illness cases linked to violent incidents in downtown Chicago, revealing the critical gaps in a system tasked with aiding those in crisis. The Sun-Times investigation, led by accomplished journalists Stephanie Zimmermann and Frank Main, paints a sobering picture of the intersection between untreated mental health issues and public safety concerns.

In an increasingly turbulent world, stress is becoming an everyday challenge for many people, with recent studies revealing a marked spike in anxiety levels among Americans in 2025. Contributing factors vary widely, from massive layoffs of federal employees to adverse weather conditions impacting communities. A survey conducted by the mental health platform Modern Health found that three-quarters of U.S. workers felt despondent from current political and global developments. Dr. Neha Chaudhary, a seasoned psychiatrist, noted that many of her patients cannot recall a time of such significant stress and uncertainty.

A groundbreaking study recently published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings has unveiled a potential new “gold standard” in cholesterol treatment, which could prevent over 330,000 deaths annually caused by cardiovascular diseases. Spearheaded by an international team led by Professor Maciej Banach from the John Paul II Catholic University in Lublin, this research represents the largest meta-analysis to date examining the efficacy of cholesterol-lowering treatments for those at high risk of heart attacks and strokes. The study found that combining statins with ezetimibe, instead of using statins alone, significantly lowers “bad” LDL cholesterol and reduces mortality from cardiovascular diseases.

In a significant move aimed at addressing the mental health crisis within the construction industry, a new bill introduced in the Minnesota Senate proposes a $1 million allocation to support mental health initiatives over the next two years. This legislative action underscores a growing recognition of the unique mental health challenges faced by construction workers, whose rates of mental health issues and suicide are alarmingly higher than those of the general population.

Recent research conducted by Katerina Johnson and Laura Steenbergen at Leiden University has unveiled the potential benefits of probiotics in reducing negative emotions, a finding that could pave the way for novel mental health interventions. Published in the journal npj Mental Health Research, the study highlights the impact of these “good” bacteria on mood regulation, particularly through their interaction with the gut-brain axis.

Probiotics, often available in supermarkets as drinks or tablets and naturally found in foods like yogurt, fermented cheese, and sauerkraut, are primarily celebrated for enhancing gut health. However, this study suggests they may also play a significant role in mental well-being. The gut-brain connection, as explained by Johnson, involves pathways where gut bacteria influence feelings and behavior via the vagus nerve, immune system, and hormones.

Managing stress related to busy schedules has become an ever-present concern in our fast-paced lives. A recent article by Jancee Dunn in The New York Times explores practical ways to alleviate time anxiety—a common struggle impacting many, as confirmed by a Pew Research Center survey indicating that 60% of people feel overwhelmed by their schedules at times. The insights shared in the piece, combined with expert advice, offer a pathway for individuals to regain control over their time and reduce stress.

In a revealing study published in JAMA Network Open, researchers have shed light on concerning trends in maternal health, particularly the rise in maternal deaths occurring well after the delivery period. The analysis reports that nearly one-third of maternal deaths in the United States take place more than six weeks postpartum, highlighting an urgent need for extended healthcare for new mothers.

The study analyzed data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s division of reproductive health, which, until recently, played a pivotal role in tracking maternal mortality rates and identifying health disparities. This research found a 28% increase in pregnancy-related deaths between 2018 and 2022, peaking during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a digital landscape where screens feature prominently from classrooms to bedrooms, increased screen time among teen girls has ignited concerns over depressive symptoms. A recent study highlights the growing connection between prolonged screen exposure and emotional turmoil, creating an urgent need for interventions tailored to Thai adolescents.

As teens submerge themselves in social media, streaming platforms, and online classes, the potential for cyberbullying intensifies. Teen girls, in particular, report higher incidences of online harassment, delivering adverse emotional impacts. Furthermore, late-night scrolling disrupts sleep patterns crucial for mood regulation. The lure of screens often sidetracks physical activity, an essential factor for maintaining happiness and energy.

In the vibrant cacophony of modern life, stress has become a near-constant companion for many. Amidst global disruptions, economic shifts, and the relentless scroll of social media, a new report suggests that stress isn’t just an individual burden—it’s contagious. Recognizing and managing this “stress contagion” is increasingly vital for maintaining mental wellness.

Understanding the contagious nature of stress offers insight into how emotions and behaviors spread within communities and social groups, much like physical viruses. The report from the Washington Post explores how stress can be transmitted from one individual to another, exacerbated by the omnipresence of social media where stressors are magnified. Natalia Duque-Wilckens, an assistant professor at North Carolina State University, emphasizes how humans, being inherently social beings, often transmit stress through the sharing of negative news.

In a world increasingly tethered to digital devices, a recent study by Talker Research highlights a newfound anxiety linked to our smartphones’ battery life. This survey of 2,000 Americans has pinpointed the “panic percentage,” with most people beginning to stress when their battery life hits a relatively high 38%. This point of concern arises long before the typical warning signs, such as the low-battery notification that iPhones present at 20%.

Recent research conducted by Katerina Johnson and Laura Steenbergen, published in the journal npj Mental Health Research, indicates that probiotics may reduce negative feelings, offering potential mental health benefits. This study adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting that the benefits of probiotics go beyond gut health and extend into mental well-being. Probiotics, commonly consumed through yogurts, fermented cheeses, and supplements, harbor beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, which can influence not just physical health but how we feel, potentially impacting mood regulation.

In an article by The Times of India, it has been highlighted that certain fruits pack a considerable punch in their skins, dense with fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients. Incorporating these edible peels into your diet could mean the difference between missing out on substantial health benefits and maximizing your nutritional intake. Here’s a look at six fruits that are best enjoyed whole, skin and all, for their potential health advantages.

In a groundbreaking study that could revolutionize treatments for neurological disorders, researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified a novel mechanism of brain cell communication through advanced cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), revealing how the neurotransmitter glutamate activates brain receptors. This could pave the way for new therapeutic options to address conditions like epilepsy and certain intellectual disabilities.

The research sheds light on the intricate dance of ion channels and neurotransmitters that enable our brains to function. Glutamate, a critical signaling molecule, influences AMPA receptors—channels that control the flow of ions into neurons, thereby facilitating electrical communication within the brain. The team’s innovation lies in capturing freeze-frame images of these channels in action, providing unprecedented clarity on their operation and potential drug interaction points.

In the realm of psychological behaviors, a new archetype of narcissism challenges our perception of selflessness and charity. Known as “communal narcissism,” this variant diverts from the typical image of egocentric arrogance, revealing instead individuals deeply involved in community affairs, albeit with self-serving motivations. Defined by experts as those appearing altruistic and dedicated to humanitarian efforts, communal narcissists are eventually revealed to operate under the guise of goodwill to garner validation and admiration from their surroundings, making them harder to detect HuffPost.

A recently published report in Stat News raises alarms on the burgeoning wellness industry, highlighting its unintentional role in the potential spread of diseases like the H5N1 bird flu. At a staggering $6.3 trillion, this industry’s inclination towards natural alternatives and distrust in scientific rigor has far-reaching consequences, not just affecting human populations but also posing a grave threat to animals and public health. The spread of this disease raises significant concerns, particularly as it intersects with popular trends in veterinary wellness.

In a world where longevity is often associated with costly and time-consuming practices, recent findings highlight that effective, life-extending habits need not break the bank. While some chase extended life through expensive procedures and supplements, experts emphasize that the simplest strategies, grounded in science and tradition, are not only accessible but remarkably effective.

For Thai readers intrigued by the idea of living a longer, healthier life, these insights offer a refreshing perspective. John Tower, a biology professor from USC, underlines the effectiveness of lifestyle choices like diet and exercise over costly, experimental treatments. Echoing this sentiment, MIT’s Joseph Coughlin emphasizes sticking to time-tested methods rather than those hyped up by influencers, which often lack scientific backing.

University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD) researchers have made significant strides in understanding how stress impacts driver behavior, suggesting that managing stress is just as crucial for safe driving as avoiding drowsy or intoxicated driving. Equipped with sensors that measure heart rate and changes in skin conductivity, UMD’s study presents compelling evidence that stress and emotional upheaval can severely compromise driver decision-making. This research is highly relevant not only to American commuters but also resonates with Thai drivers navigating Bangkok’s notoriously busy and sometimes chaotic traffic.

In recent years, creatine has surged as a prominent supplement in the wellness community, often praised for its benefits in muscle, brain, and bone health. However, misinformation around creatine persists, fueled by misconceptions and outdated studies. A recent article on mindbodygreen sought to debunk five pervasive myths about creatine, with insights from Darren Candow, Ph.D., a leading researcher in the field. Understanding these truths can guide Thai readers in making informed decisions regarding this popular supplement.