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Earwax serves a purpose beyond being merely bothersome. Medical experts say most people don’t need to remove it routinely. Dr. Erich P. Voigt of NYU Grossman School of Medicine notes that earwax acts as a natural barrier against infections and moisture, helping prevent dryness and itchiness. This is particularly relevant for Thailand’s humid climate, where ear hygiene often raises questions.

Experts describe earwax as a self-cleaning “conveyer belt” of skin. Dr. Lawrence R. Lustig of Columbia University explains that earwax and canal oils migrate outward, gradually releasing wax from the ear canal without manual intervention. Data from reputable medical sources supports the idea that the body typically manages earwax on its own.

Perimenopause is often seen as a late-life transition, but it can begin in the 30s. This phase, which leads up to menopause, brings a spectrum of unexpected experiences. For Thai women, understanding these changes helps interpret health signals accurately and seek appropriate care.

Many Thai readers associate menopause with a sudden stop in periods in the 50s. Yet new insights show perimenopause can start before 40 and last several years. An obstetrician-gynecologist specializing in reproductive endocrinology notes that irregular cycles, hot flashes, and mood swings are common but frequently overlooked signs.

A growing social-media trend has brought the low-histamine diet into the spotlight, with claims that avoiding histamine-rich foods can ease bloating, hives, and other symptoms. Yet for Thai readers, it’s essential to separate hype from evidence and consider practical implications for local eating patterns, especially given Thailand’s rich fermented foods and flavors. Expert insights from a board-certified allergist and an experienced dietitian help unpack what histamines are and when such a diet might be appropriate.

The global popularity of matcha, the vibrant green tea hailing from Japan, has cultivated a challenge for producers striving to meet soaring demands, as reported by CBS Mornings. Once a niche beverage favored by tea enthusiasts, matcha has surged into mainstream consumption, transitioning from tea cups to matcha-infused lattes and desserts. Notably, the intricacies of its production have played a crucial role in current shortages, causing concern for both devoted matcha drinkers and the broader market.

Many Thai households enjoy convenience foods like turkey sandwiches and breakfast sausages, but recent dietary guidance suggests these choices might warrant a second thought, especially when managing cholesterol levels. A recent article by EatingWell points out processed meats as the number one food to limit for reducing high cholesterol risk, a concern that resonates globally and here in Thailand.

Cholesterol, a substance necessary for hormone production, digestion, and vitamin D synthesis, can become a health hazard when levels rise too high. It can lead to plaque in the arteries, significantly increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke. With heart disease being one of the leading causes of death worldwide, understanding dietary impacts has never been more crucial. In Thailand, where food plays a central cultural role, balancing tradition and health is both a priority and challenge.

A straightforward approach to daily hydration is gaining attention for its practicality. An Italian nutritionist, Luca Cioffi, has popularized a “glass method” that pairs each glass of water with a routine, making regular intake easier to maintain. The idea resonates with readers seeking simple, repeatable health habits.

Traditional guidance often centers on eight glasses of water per day. The glass method builds on this by tying each glass to a moment in the day, so staying hydrated becomes as automatic as brushing teeth. Cioffi warns that waiting for thirst often means you’re already dehydrated, a common issue for busy people juggling work, exercise, and household tasks.

A recent study challenges the belief that high-intensity workouts are the quickest path to weight loss for women over 50. Researchers found that walking at a slower pace can significantly boost fat loss in this group. The findings appear in Nutrients, published in January 2022.

The study followed 25 postmenopausal women over 15 weeks, with all participants walking about three miles four days a week. Sixteen women continued the program for 30 weeks. Results showed that leisurely walkers averaging 3.2 miles per hour for roughly 54 minutes daily lost about 2.7 times more body fat than those who walked faster at 4.1 miles per hour for around 45 minutes.

A recent study has overturned the common belief that high-intensity workouts are the best way to lose weight, especially for women over the age of 50. Surprisingly, it turns out that walking at a slower pace significantly boosts fat loss for this group, according to research published in the journal Nutrients in January 2022.

The study tracked 25 postmenopausal women over a period of 15 weeks, with all participants adhering to a consistent walking regimen of about three miles, four days a week. Of these, 16 women extended their participation to 30 weeks. The results were compelling: women who walked at a leisurely pace of 3.2 miles per hour for approximately 54 minutes each day lost 2.73 times more fat than those who sped through their walks at 4.1 miles per hour for about 45 minutes.

A growing number of people feel overwhelmed by food choices amid busy lives. Kylie Sakaida, a registered dietitian and TikTok influencer, champions a “stress-free eating” lifestyle. Her approach centers on simplifying meal prep and moving away from an all-or-nothing mindset. In conversations with CNBC, she explains that easier cooking and flexible diets can significantly reduce food-related anxiety.

Sakaida argues that the quest for perfect food choices can be exhausting. Her guidance is to focus on what to add rather than what to remove. For example, she suggests incorporating plant-based proteins to complement rather than eliminate animal products. This positive framing helps people view meals as doable and enjoyable, reducing stress around cooking.

In India, the “pot belly” was once seen as a mark of affluence and success. Considered synonymous with aging gracefully or living a life of ease, it was a common archetype reflected in novels, films, and even cartoons. However, what was once a cultural depiction of prosperity has transformed into a major health concern. With India ranking second globally in obesity rates as of 2021, according to a Lancet study, an alarming 180 million Indians were categorized as overweight or obese. This number is projected to skyrocket to 450 million by 2050, nearly enveloping a third of the nation’s estimated population.

In an era where altruism and humanitarian efforts are celebrated, it might be surprising to discover a type of narcissism that thrives under the guise of good deeds. Recently, the concept of ‘communal narcissism’ has gained attention for its unique characteristics. Unlike the stereotypical narcissist who is overtly arrogant and self-centered, communal narcissists often appear deeply invested in community and charity. However, their underlying motivation is attention rather than genuine concern for others, a trait confirmed by experts in psychology and behavior.

Recent research into the brain’s natural mechanisms for managing pain reveals fascinating insights that could revolutionize the way we approach pain management. At the heart of this discovery is the periaqueductal grey (PAG), a brain region that plays a crucial role in suppressing pain even before it reaches our conscious awareness. This study explains why individuals with severe injuries, such as soldiers during WWII, sometimes feel little to no pain and opens potential pathways for non-opioid pain therapies.

The low-histamine diet has emerged as the latest food trend riding the viral wave on TikTok and Instagram. Promising relief from ailments like chronic bloating and inexplicable hives, influencers propose eliminating histamine-rich foods—such as aged cheese, wine, and fermented products—is the key to improved health. However, it’s essential to understand what histamines are and how relevant this diet is beyond social media hype. Speaking to experts like Dr. Purvi Parikh, a board-certified allergist and immunologist, and Marlee Hamilton, a registered dietitian, fact-checks these trending claims.

A Texas woman’s health scare highlights potential dangers linked to over-the-counter vitamins advertised for hair, skin, and nails. The case raises questions about supplement safety not just in the United States but also in Thailand and beyond.

From Fort Worth, Jenny’s weight‑loss journey took an unexpected turn when she experienced hair loss. She started using a popular “beauty” vitamin supplement to address the issue. Soon after, she developed jaundice-like symptoms, signaling possible liver distress. Medical tests indicated liver failure, and doctors attributed the condition to methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), a common ingredient in such products. While MSM is generally regarded as safe for many people, certain individuals with pre-existing liver concerns may react poorly.

New research signals a meaningful link between low vitamin D levels and an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. In Thailand, where aging populations are rising, this finding carries particular relevance for family health and public well-being. A 2023 meta-analysis of almost 11,000 participants reported that those with insufficient vitamin D had about a 59% higher risk of Alzheimer’s compared with individuals with adequate levels. The results underscore vitamin D’s role beyond bone health, extending to brain function and cognitive resilience.

Recent research reveals a concerning correlation between low vitamin D levels and an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, a condition expected to impact Thai families profoundly as the population ages. A meta-analysis from 2023, which analyzed data from nearly 11,000 participants, found that individuals with lower blood levels of vitamin D faced a 59% higher risk of Alzheimer’s compared to those with adequate levels. This finding emphasizes the critical role vitamin D plays not just in bone health but also in cognitive function.

A Tufts University study from the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center reveals that vitamin K plays a significant role in brain health as we age. Published in the Journal of Nutrition, the research suggests that vitamin K deficiency can impair memory, hinder the growth of new brain cells, and amplify brain inflammation.

With life expectancy rising globally, understanding nutritional supports for cognitive function becomes urgent. While genetics and lifestyle matter, this study highlights how everyday diet can influence cognitive aging. Vitamin K, long known for its role in blood clotting, is increasingly recognized for broader benefits to cardiovascular, bone, and neurological health.

Our bodies produce various substances, each having its own purpose, even if some, like earwax, may seem bothersome. Despite the common urge to clean it out, experts suggest most people do not need to remove earwax, emphasizing its role in ear health. According to Dr. Erich P. Voigt of NYU Grossman School of Medicine, earwax acts as a natural barrier against infections and water, providing lubrication that prevents the ears from drying out and itching. This is pivotal information for Thai readers, where humid conditions often lead to concerns about ear hygiene. The evolutionary advantage of earwax as a “conveyer belt of skin,” as explained by Dr. Lawrence R. Lustig from Columbia University, highlights how the body’s natural processes typically eliminate earwax. The secretion migrates outwards, mixed with oils from the ear canal, providing a self-cleaning mechanism obviating the need for manual cleaning source.

A new health conversation points to yoghurt as a simple, everyday dietary option that may help lower bowel cancer risk. Researchers and journalists emphasize the potential gut-health benefits of yoghurt, especially as colorectal cancer cases rise among younger people.

Recent observations show colorectal cancer rates increasing, with a notable uptick among those under 55. Experts link part of this trend to ultra-processed foods. In contrast, yoghurt—a source of beneficial bacteria—may support a healthier gut microbiome. The microbiome is a complex community in the digestive system that influences digestion, immunity, and cancer risk.

In a critical breakthrough for dietary health, incorporating yoghurt into your daily breakfast routine may significantly lower your risk of developing bowel cancer. This advice comes from Justin Stebbing, Professor of Biomedical Sciences at Anglia Ruskin University, who shared his insights on The Conversation website. As colorectal cancer cases surge, particularly among individuals under 55, yoghurt emerges as a promising dietary intervention to counter this trend.

The alarming rise in colorectal cancer—more than doubling among younger populations—has been linked, in part, to the consumption of ultra-processed foods. However, recent research highlights the protective potential of yoghurt, which Professor Stebbing attributes to its beneficial effects on the gut microbiome. This complex ecosystem of microorganisms residing in the digestive tract plays a pivotal role not only in digestion and immune function but also in mitigating cancer risks.

A rising health trend is a 7-day no-sugar, anti-inflammatory meal plan designed for beginners. Created by a registered dietitian, the plan invites people to explore how reducing sugar can lower inflammation by focusing on nutrient-dense foods. Without added sugars, the menu emphasizes ingredients with known anti-inflammatory properties to support overall wellbeing and reduce risk factors for chronic disease.

The plan is timely because it targets two common health challenges: chronic inflammation and high sugar intake. Excess added sugars are linked to risks such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. The approach centers on whole foods and eliminates added sugars, aligning with public health campaigns in Thailand that encourage smarter sugar choices. Thai audiences, increasingly attentive to wellness trends, will find practical relevance in connecting global research to local health goals.

As the pressure to maintain optimal health increases, a new dietary plan has attracted attention: a 7-day no-sugar, anti-inflammatory meal plan. Developed by dietitian Devineé Lingo, this meal plan is designed to help beginners explore the benefits of reducing sugar and inflammation by focusing on nutrient-rich foods. Without sugar, the plan emphasizes a variety of foods known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which are beneficial for anyone looking to improve their diet and fend off chronic diseases.

A recent neuroimaging study in the journal Brain Sciences has highlighted intriguing differences in brain connectivity between action video gamers and non-gamers, sparking discussions on the cognitive impacts of video gaming. The research found that individuals who engage extensively in action video games, such as First-Person Shooters and Real-Time Strategy games, demonstrate enhanced functional and structural connectivity in the dorsal visual stream of their brains. This discovery provides a compelling look at how such gaming activities may influence brain function, emphasizing heightened functional connectivity between the left superior occipital gyrus and the left superior parietal lobule—areas integral to processing spatial location and movement.

A recent study in Brain Sciences examines how frequent action gaming might shape brain networks. The researchers found that action gamers—such as players of first-person shooters and real-time strategy titles—exhibit stronger connections in the dorsal visual stream, which processes spatial location and movement. They also report improved communication between key regions, including the left superior occipital gyrus and the left superior parietal lobule.

In visual processing, two pathways handle different tasks. The dorsal stream answers “where” something is; the ventral stream answers “what” it is. The study’s lead author, a senior researcher, suggests that intensive spatial and coordination demands in action games could boost connectivity within these pathways.