#Health

A new breakthrough by researchers at Boston University is offering hope in the fight against dangerous “forever chemicals”—formally known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—that have been linked to cancer and other serious health issues. According to the latest studies, taking beta-glucan fiber supplements, specifically three times daily, can decrease the concentration of these harmful chemicals in the blood by up to eight percent over four weeks, marking a significant development for global and Thai public health alike (GB News, The Guardian).

A new study has revealed that everyday acts of kindness—ranging from a warm tone of voice to sincere smiles and attentive listening—can significantly improve teamwork and foster a greater sense of cooperation. The research, led by a team at SWPS University in partnership with a Tel Aviv University scholar, demonstrates that simple gestures of niceness enhance social connectedness, which in turn boosts both group satisfaction and willingness to collaborate (neurosciencenews.com).

A major new study has found that engaging in tailored exercise programs before surgery can reduce the risk of complications by up to 50%, offering hope for improved recovery and shorter hospital stays for patients in Thailand and around the world. This promising discovery—supported by several recent international studies—suggests that pre-surgery preparation through fitness routines and dietary improvements, known as “prehabilitation,” could become a standard part of surgical care.

The findings, reported across global outlets such as MSN, NPR, and the academic journal The BMJ, come at a crucial time. Surgery remains a leading cause of hospitalization in Thailand, with recovery often complicated by infections, slow wound healing, or organ dysfunction, especially among elderly or chronically ill patients. These new studies shine a light on how taking proactive steps before an operation may significantly lower these risks, marking a shift in both patient and clinical expectations.

A growing body of research suggests that a simple adjustment to daily routines—standing up or taking a brisk stroll for just two minutes after every twenty minutes of sitting—could play a crucial role in stabilising blood sugar, even for those who struggle to fit formal exercise into their lives. Health experts are drawing attention to the so-called ‘2 per 20’ rule, which is quickly gaining traction as an accessible strategy for people at risk of diabetes and those seeking to maintain better metabolic health amid increasingly sedentary lifestyles, such as those common among office workers and students in Thailand and around the world. (Indian Express)

A flurry of new scientific research is challenging the long-held beliefs popularized by self-help and productivity gurus: that waking up at dawn and taking cold showers are surefire ways to supercharge your success. According to a recent article, “Science has debunked the morning mantra of productivity gurus: cold showers are just as useless as waking up early,” leading experts now say the effectiveness of these morning rituals is more myth than magic, raising questions for millions who have faithfully followed these regimens for years (thinkstewartville.com).

In a world where busy schedules make lengthy gym sessions feel impossible, a wave of new research is changing the way we think about fitness. If you only have 10 minutes, that’s now more than enough to spark major health and cognitive benefits—no fancy equipment or gym required. Called “exercise snacks” or “active breaks,” these brief sessions are getting endorsements from trainers and scientists alike as powerful tools for fighting sedentary lifestyles and improving wellbeing, including for Thai readers juggling family, work and community obligations.

A groundbreaking study from Brazil has highlighted a simple, overlooked aspect of daily movement—muscle power—as a crucial predictor for longevity and quality of life. This revelation, published following two decades of data collection in Rio de Janeiro and reported recently by The Guardian, suggests that the speed with which we move—how quickly we can apply our strength—matters just as much, if not more, than traditional measures of muscle strength when it comes to staying healthy and living longer (theguardian.com).

A new wave of psychological research is making headlines by highlighting six simple, low-effort habits that can significantly improve concentration—even for those who find themselves constantly distracted by digital noise or daily interruptions. Drawing from both academic studies and practical expert insight, these effective routines promise to make focused work accessible to everyone, including busy Thais seeking to optimize productivity in fast-paced environments.

Amid Thailand’s rapidly changing work culture, marked by the increasing adoption of remote work, online education, and hyper-connected lifestyles, the ability to focus has become more valuable—and elusive—than ever. For countless professionals, students, and even office workers hoping to achieve more in less time, the science of attention and mental discipline is no longer a fringe topic, but a key to academic and career success. Psychological evidence now shows that focus is not an innate trait, but a learned skill that anyone can cultivate through specific, everyday habits (yourtango.com).

A recent story from Greensboro, North Carolina, has drawn new attention to the transformative power of exercise in the fight against type 2 diabetes, with important lessons for Thai readers. The case of a woman who reversed her diabetes through dedication to fitness is not an isolated incident, but rather a reflection of emerging medical research that is reshaping the understanding of diabetes management in both the United States and Thailand. As diabetes remains a major health challenge globally and in Thailand—with rising rates tied to modern lifestyles—such stories of reversal and remission offer new hope and actionable guidance.

A growing body of research is sounding the alarm for those entering their late 30s and early 40s: the habits we hold onto between ages 36 and 46 can set the trajectory for our long-term health, influencing risks for serious conditions like cancer, heart disease, and early death. While indulgences in our youth may pass without obvious consequences, scientists now warn that the cumulative effects of unhealthy behaviors become much harder to escape as we approach the middle-aged years, making this decade a turning point for personal well-being (The Telegraph).

A new wave of research and testimony from front-line professionals is shining a spotlight on everyday habits that, while seemingly harmless, may carry significant hidden risks to health and safety. Recent reporting, sourced from the collective wisdom of medical, emergency, and safety experts, unpacks nineteen common activities regularly overlooked for their potential to cause injury or worse, underscoring the importance of public awareness—especially for Thai readers navigating similar modern lifestyles (Yahoo! Lifestyle).

Recent research has strengthened the link between regular exercise and a significantly lower risk of developing cancer, as well as improved outcomes for those already diagnosed with the disease. Several major studies released in 2025 have provided further evidence that physical activity – even at light or moderate levels – may not only prevent certain cancers but also enhance survival among patients, findings which hold particular importance for Thai communities increasingly affected by lifestyle-related diseases.

Engaging in sexual activity before bedtime may lead to better sleep, according to a newly published study that highlights an intriguing link between intimacy and improved rest. The findings, reported by PsyPost, have drawn attention among sleep researchers and health professionals who are eager to further understand lifestyle factors influencing sleep quality—an issue of growing concern in Thailand as well as globally.

In a nation where the pressures of modern life are taking a toll on the physical and mental well-being of its residents, sleep problems have become alarmingly common. According to local hospital surveys and research from Thailand’s Department of Mental Health, an increasing number of Thai people—particularly in Bangkok and other major cities—report trouble falling or staying asleep. The new research sheds light on a potential, natural intervention that could be both accessible and culturally resonant for couples seeking non-pharmacological ways to improve their nightly rest.

A groundbreaking study from the American Cancer Society has revealed that maintaining physical activity after a cancer diagnosis significantly increases survival chances for patients with a wide range of cancers, including those where such evidence was previously scarce. Published in the reputable Journal of the National Cancer Institute, the research is being hailed as a vital step in shaping survivorship care and public health policy for millions worldwide, including the thousands of Thai cancer survivors seeking guidance on life after treatment (mcknights.com).

Lemons, long a humble fixture in Thai kitchens and street food stalls, have been revealed as the healthiest fruit of all, according to a series of recent scientific studies and media reports. This finding, upending the classic rivalry between apples and bananas for the crown of healthiest fruit, places this small but mighty citrus front and center in the pursuit of better health and disease prevention for people in Thailand and beyond. At a time when diet-related illnesses remain a growing concern in the kingdom, the research highlights practical, affordable ways for Thais to enhance wellness using an ingredient already woven into national cuisine and daily life.

Waking up before the sun rises might seem like a quirky habit of older relatives, but the science behind this shift in sleep patterns reveals much more than family folklore. New insights from sleep scientists, recently discussed in a HuffPost feature, highlight the intricate relationship between aging, our internal body clock, and environmental cues — shedding light on why so many Thais (and people worldwide) find themselves rising earlier as the candles accumulate on their birthday cakes (HuffPost).

A recent wave of scientific research is challenging some of the most cherished assumptions about homemade versus processed foods, revealing that the health benefits of cooking at home may not be as clear-cut as once believed. This new evidence, including a headline-grabbing study reported by Fox News and grounded in contemporary scientific literature, is pushing nutrition experts and the general public alike to reconsider what truly makes a diet healthy – a debate with significant relevance for Thai families navigating the fast-changing landscape of modern food choices (Fox News).

A growing body of research shows that the ideal approach to meal timing may not be the same for everyone—especially when it comes to optimizing energy and performance. A recent article published by Outside Online and supported by leading sports nutrition experts suggests that whether it’s better to eat small, frequent meals or stick to three substantial ones largely depends on the individual’s activity level and goals (Outside Online).

For those striving to maximise athletic performance, eating habits can be just as important as the nutrients themselves. Nutrition experts reporting for Outside Online point out that food fuels athletic performance by supplying energy, aiding in recovery, and supporting the body’s critical functions during and after training. The three macronutrients—carbohydrates, fats, and proteins—all play essential roles, but timing and frequency of meals can affect how well the body absorbs and uses these nutrients.

The latest viral exercise sensation on TikTok—the vibration plate—has fitness enthusiasts buzzing with claims of effortless weight loss, muscle toning, and even health miracles. Yet, beneath the social media hype, what does the actual science say about standing on a vibrating platform for health? A recent personal investigation by a journalist, who tested both affordable and high-end models over a month, reveals a complex mix of cultural trends, technological evolution, and limited but intriguing research—offering valuable lessons for Thai readers navigating the latest fitness fads.

The safety and efficacy of mRNA vaccines have returned to the spotlight following new regulatory actions and heightened public debate, but the scientific community continues to reaffirm their vital role in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. Recent scrutiny, triggered by policy changes from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is prompting fresh discussion amid persistent misinformation and growing public concerns—even as evidence underscores overwhelming benefits for both individuals and public health at large (ABC News).

A groundbreaking 12-year study has revealed that building and maintaining muscle strength, rather than focusing solely on cardio exercises, could be the best strategy for living a longer and healthier life. Published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, the large-scale research tracked over 14,000 adults aged 50 and older and found a surprisingly strong link between grip strength—a simple measure of overall muscle health—and mortality risk, challenging prevailing beliefs about the sole significance of cardiovascular workouts for longevity.

A major new study has confirmed a troubling link: as preteens spend more time on social media, their risk of experiencing depressive symptoms rises significantly—a finding with profound implications for parents, educators, and policymakers in Thailand and around the world. The longitudinal research, published in JAMA Network Open and conducted by a team at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), tracked nearly 12,000 children over three years and delivered the strongest evidence yet that increased screen time can actually cause later depression in youth, not just reflect existing mood changes. For a country like Thailand, where smartphone and social media penetration among youth have soared, these findings raise urgent questions about digital wellbeing and mental health support for the next generation.

A new wave in fitness is gaining traction globally — and it’s as simple as walking, but with a twist. The Japanese interval walking method, now popular on social media and the subject of emerging scientific research, promises to boost cardiovascular health, reduce blood pressure, increase muscle strength, and support overall well-being through a simple but structured walking routine.

Originating in Japan as Interval Walking Training (IWT), this approach alternates short bursts of high-intensity walking with periods of slower-paced recovery. Proponents say it’s a smarter way to walk, delivering health results often associated with more strenuous exercise — and recent anecdotal reports, like one published by Tom’s Guide, suggest the method is accessible and enjoyable enough for sustained practice (Tom’s Guide).

A groundbreaking study published by researchers from Fujita Health University has found that pizza is eaten significantly faster than traditional chopstick-based bento meals—a discovery with major implications for how eating habits may contribute to obesity and metabolic health. This research highlights that the structure of the meal and utensils used matter more in determining eating speed than previously emphasized tactics such as changing the order in which foods are consumed.