News

A Swedish study shows that anxiety medications, when present in farmed salmon, can change the fish’s behavior in ways that raise ecological concerns. Salmon exposed to the drug clobazam moved through dangerous turbine barriers more quickly than untreated fish, suggesting bolder, riskier actions that may not be beneficial in the long run.

Researchers from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences fed about 280 farmed salmon either clobazam, tramadol, or no drug. The results were clear: higher clobazam levels sped salmon through hydroelectric turbines by two to three times compared with controls. Lead researcher Jack Brand cautioned that altering natural behavior can have broad negative consequences for a population. In practical Thailand terms, bolder salmon could face greater risks navigating man-made barriers in rivers that already host heavy traffic from boats and structures.

A growing crisis in youth mental health in the United States has driven hundreds of parents to make an agonizing choice: surrender custody to the state in hopes of securing urgent, specialized care their families cannot access otherwise. National reporting highlights cases like Nina Richtman’s in Iowa, revealing deep systemic gaps in health, social support, and child welfare that resonate with Thai families, policymakers, and healthcare providers seeking better outcomes at home.

A growing number of parents are finding themselves overwhelmed and exhausted by the search for the “right” therapist for their children—especially for conditions like ADHD, where behavioral outbursts can create urgent family stress. This was the central story in a recent episode of Slate’s “Care and Feeding” parenting podcast, where hosts responded to a mother tired by seemingly endless therapy trials and the ongoing struggle to find support for her daughter’s behavioral needs. Her dilemma reflects a wider phenomenon now drawing attention in new research and news: ‘therapy shopping’—the often stressful, confusing, and time-consuming search for effective mental health care—is exacting a heavy toll on families everywhere (Slate Podcast).

A growing chorus of parents and psychologists believe it is better for children to face manageable risks than to be raised in overly sheltered environments—a provocative idea that is gaining traction worldwide, including in Thailand. A recent feature from Upworthy, which sparked widespread conversation, gathered insights from parents who argue that modern tendencies to overprotect children may actually hinder their emotional, social, and intellectual maturity. This approach runs counter to traditional Thai values of overprotection, prompting a re-examination of how best to prepare Thai youth for an increasingly unpredictable world (source).

A new home-fitness trend is changing how people train their cores. Instead of traditional sit-ups and crunches, many are turning to dynamic, dumbbell-based moves. A firsthand feature by Fit&Well’s Yanar Alkayat highlights a weighted core circuit guided by a musculoskeletal specialist, and explains why Thai readers might rethink their approach to ab training.

In today’s fitness culture, core routines often revolve around endless crunches. However, new research and expert insights suggest a broader focus is needed. In Thailand, many people follow online videos and apps that emphasize visible abs rather than functional strength. Weighted core exercises with dumbbells target deeper muscles around the ribs, spine, and pelvis—key for posture, balance, and daily tasks like walking, lifting, and climbing stairs.

A new training trend is shaking up home fitness routines worldwide: swapping traditional core exercises like sit-ups and crunches for dynamic, dumbbell-based moves. As detailed in a firsthand feature on Fit&Well, journalist Yanar Alkayat shares her experience adopting a weighted core circuit, guided by musculoskeletal specialist Kelly Marshall, highlighting key reasons why Thai readers may want to reconsider their approach to ab training (Fit&Well, 2025).

In today’s fitness culture, core workouts are almost synonymous with endless repetitions of crunches—but new research and expert insights suggest this may be a missed opportunity. Many of us in Thailand follow online videos or fitness apps that focus mainly on “visible abs.” However, strengthening only the superficial muscles overlooks vital deep core muscles that underlie our posture, balance, and daily movements. Weighted core exercises, particularly those using dumbbells, have emerged as a way to target deeper muscle layers around the ribs, spine, and pelvis—muscles crucial not only for aesthetics but for practical function such as walking, lifting, and climbing stairs.

A recent advice column caught the internet’s attention: a six-year-old boy has repeatedly punched classmates, leaving bruises, and his parents have dismissed this behavior as inconsequential. This scenario, while alarming, puts a spotlight on a challenge familiar to many families and educators in Thailand—how should parents and schools respond when a child’s aggression escalates beyond normal childhood roughhousing? Research over the past year offers new insight, emphasizing that how parents react can deeply shape a child’s future social and emotional development.

A groundbreaking new study reveals that simply combining two everyday activities—using a step counter and practicing mindfulness—could be the key to making exercise a more attractive, sustainable part of daily life. Published in April 2025 in the journal Mental Health and Physical Activity, researchers from the University of Bath found that integrating step tracking with mindfulness training delivered via a mobile application significantly improved participants’ desire to stay active compared to step counting alone. This research is particularly timely for Thai readers, as our society faces similar challenges with sedentary lifestyles and rising chronic health risks associated with inactivity.

Staying active isn’t just about looking younger—it’s crucial for maintaining independence and well-being as we age. A compelling new report, drawing on fitness experts and endorsed by leading health institutions, highlights three key exercise types that can unlock strength, stability, and resilience well into your golden years. Contrary to long-standing misconceptions, physical activity is not only safe for older adults but essential: it staves off chronic disease, strengthens the body, and uplifts the mind. For Thailand’s rapidly aging population, these science-backed routines hold the potential to transform daily life, giving Thai grandparents energy to play with grandchildren (หลาน), join community events, or even embark confidently on temple pilgrimages (ไปวัด).

A recent personal story published by The Telegraph, titled “I was raised by an abusive mother. This is what I want people to know,” has once again brought to light the often-overlooked issue of maternal abuse and its profound, long-term effects on children. While parental abuse is commonly associated with fathers, stories and research are revealing that mothers, too, can be perpetrators, challenging both societal stereotypes and deeply held cultural assumptions. As this subject gains traction in Western media, there is growing recognition of its prevalence and implications for families around the world, including here in Thailand, where filial piety and family honor are especially significant.

A surge of recent research spotlights brown adipose tissue—often called brown fat—as a potential game changer in the fight against obesity. For Thai readers facing rising weight-related health challenges, this discovery offers fresh hope. Unlike white fat, which stores energy, brown fat burns calories to generate heat, acting like a natural furnace in the body.

Historically, fat has been treated as the enemy in weight management. Yet not all fat behaves the same. Scientists have identified molecular switches that can turn brown fat’s calorie-burning ability on or off, revealing targets for future obesity therapies. Brown fat is rich in mitochondria, the cell’s power plants, and uses energy to create heat through thermogenesis. In newborns, who have more brown fat, this process helps keep warmth and may inform adult weight management.

A surge of recent research highlights brown adipose tissue—commonly called “brown fat”—as a potential game-changer in the quest for healthy weight loss, offering hope to millions in Thailand and worldwide who are grappling with rising obesity rates. Unlike ordinary white fat, which stores energy and can cause health problems in excess, brown fat burns calories to generate heat, acting as a biological furnace. This discovery is sparking new discussions about how we might harness “good fat” for improved health and more effective obesity treatments.

A growing body of research suggests cannabis users sometimes pair marijuana with exercise to boost motivation, enjoyment, and even the sensation of a “runner’s high.” This challenges the stereotype that cannabis leads to inactivity and points to a more nuanced relationship between cannabis and physical activity.

In Thailand, where cannabis policy remains in flux and health awareness is rising, experts emphasize careful interpretation. For some individuals, cannabis may reduce exercise-related pain, lessen anxiety about exercising in public, and heighten the pleasure of movement. But these effects are not universal, and responsible use is essential.

A growing wave of fitness enthusiasts is reshaping stereotypes about cannabis and exercise. Evidence and firsthand accounts suggest cannabis can make workouts more enjoyable, helping people stay motivated and perhaps even experience a version of the “runner’s high.” In interviews with media and researchers, individuals like Mark, a father in his 40s, describe using cannabis products such as vape pens or edibles to make training more engaging. Mark says while he could complete a marathon without cannabis, the training might have felt more daunting without it.

A new wave of fitness enthusiasts is challenging the long-standing stereotype of the “lazy stoner,” as growing evidence—and candid testimony—suggests that cannabis is helping people exercise, find joy in workouts, and perhaps even unlock their own version of a “runner’s high.” As recently reported by Yahoo! News, and supported by emerging research, people like Mark, a father in his 40s, are using cannabis products such as vape pens or edibles to make their training more enjoyable and less monotonous. Mark credits cannabis with helping him complete the demanding months of training for his first marathon, saying, “I definitely could have run the marathon without the marijuana, but I don’t know how easily I could have completed the training without it” (Yahoo! News).

Could a daily square of dark chocolate actually boost health for Thais? Growing evidence suggests that dark chocolate, with high cacao content, offers more health benefits than its sweeter milk chocolate cousins. This is timely as Songkran celebrations often mean more festive treats; understanding the science helps Thai readers make informed choices.

Dark chocolate’s appeal lies in its cacao concentration, typically 50 to 90 percent, far higher than milk chocolate. This density brings more flavanols, a class of antioxidants linked to heart health, brain function, and mood. Nutrition researchers note that these compounds contribute to the characteristic bitter, earthy flavor while delivering tangible benefits. The latest reviews reinforce the idea that not all chocolate is equal when it comes to health impact.

Could enjoying a square of dark chocolate each day actually be good for you, khon Thai? In recent years, research has shifted the way we think about this rich treat, suggesting that dark chocolate—not its sweeter, milkier cousins—may deliver serious health benefits, thanks to its high cacao content and unique compounds. With the Songkran holiday and an uptick in sweet indulgences, it’s the perfect time to digest the latest scientific findings and see what they mean for health-conscious Thais.

A recent study suggests that pairing a simple step-tracking habit with brief mindfulness practice can make regular exercise more appealing and sustainable. Published in April 2025 in Mental Health and Physical Activity, researchers from the University of Bath found that combining step counting with app-guided mindfulness increased participants’ desire to stay active more than step counting alone. This finding resonates with Thailand, where sedentary lifestyles and rising health risks pose serious public health challenges.

Thai fitness enthusiasts since the pandemic have learned that smart training can beat long, grind-it-out sessions. New expert guidance highlights five compound exercises that deliver strength and size quickly. This approach aligns with Bangkok and regional gym culture where time is precious after work and family commitments. Research summarized by health and fitness outlets shows that prioritizing multi-joint movements can reduce gym time while maximizing gains.

A leading exercise scientist identifies deficit deadlifts, walking lunges, underhand lat pulldowns or pull-ups, incline close-grip presses, and hang muscle snatches as the core moves. Each targets multiple muscle groups, emphasizes a full range of motion, and minimizes the risk of overloading a single muscle. For Thai gyms—ranging from urban clubs in Siam Square to community centers in the south—these moves offer a practical path to meaningful progress with limited equipment.

Recent revelations from global educational research, including findings highlighted by the Times of India in their coverage on “10 morning habits that encourage children to go to school,” underscore the significance of cultivating consistent, supportive morning routines for school-aged children. With absenteeism and school refusal a growing concern for Thai families and educators, especially in the evolving landscape after COVID-19 disruptions, this research offers valuable, evidence-backed insights tailored for both urban and upcountry Thai lifestyles source.

For Thai fitness enthusiasts balancing work, family, and other commitments, time-efficient workouts that still deliver results are not just a wish—research shows they are very much a reality. Recently, exercise scientist Dr. Mike Israetel highlighted the top five most efficient strength-training exercises, aiming to help people get “ultra jacked” in the shortest possible time. His list, presented in a detailed YouTube analysis and summarized by Yahoo Lifestyle, focuses on maximizing both strength and muscle size (hypertrophy) through compound, full-range movements, marking a significant, evidence-based shift away from long, isolated workout sessions. This news has quickly become a topic of interest across fitness forums and gyms in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and beyond, resonating deeply with those seeking smarter—not just harder—ways to train (source: https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/5-most-efficient-exercises-adding-160000417.html).

A new health finding spotlights a simple habit: take a five-minute walk for every 30 minutes of sitting. The approach, described as an “exercise snack,” can cut post-meal blood sugar spikes by up to 58 percent. The idea is accessible for many Thais and could help address rising diabetes and sedentary lifestyles in urban workplaces.

For Bangkok office workers, university students, and others who spend long hours seated, this research offers a practical strategy to stabilize blood sugar and reduce chronic disease risk. Thai elders have long observed that a short stroll after meals supports health, a notion echoed by the study’s findings. In Thai communities, the proverb “เดินสักหน่อยหลังอาหารดีต่อสุขภาพ” — “a little walk after meals is good for health” — resonates with local wisdom and lifestyle choices.

A surprising new wave of research is challenging the stereotype of the lethargic “stoner” by revealing an unexpected trend: cannabis users are increasingly pairing marijuana with exercise to boost motivation, enjoyment, and even achieve the coveted “runner’s high.” This new approach, highlighted in a recent article by Salon.com (source), reflects a growing body of scientific studies suggesting that cannabis, when used thoughtfully, might actually help some people embrace a more active lifestyle—contrary to decades-old assumptions linking marijuana to inactivity.

A scientific consensus now makes a clear point: there is no meaningful biological basis for racial categories. Yet the social significance of race remains powerful in health, education, and policy around the world. For Thai audiences navigating conversations about ethnicity, heritage, and health, understanding what genetics actually shows is essential.

The Human Genome Project, completed about a quarter of a century ago, transformed how we view human variation. Genetic differences do not cluster into neat racial groups. Instead, most variation exists within any given population, and groups share more similarities than differences. This underscores that race, as a strict biological category, is a social construct shaped by culture and history, not DNA.