#Health

Eating yoghurt daily has earned substantial attention in recent years as new research continues to unveil an expanding list of health benefits. Proponents praise yoghurt for its probiotics, protein, and vitamins, but experts warn that not all varieties are created equal – and making the right choice is crucial. With Thais increasingly seeking dietary guidance in a post-pandemic era, understanding yoghurt’s role can help improve public health and well-being.

Yoghurt, a staple in healthy diets worldwide, is produced through the bacterial fermentation of milk, most often using cultures of Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus. The end product delivers a tangy flavor and creamy texture, but more importantly, it carries a host of live beneficial bacteria – probiotics – which are known to support gut health. Over the past decade, global consumption of yoghurt and other fermented foods has surged, largely owing to recommendations from nutritionists and mounting scientific evidence connecting its consumption to numerous health improvements (Wikipedia; Frontiers).

A growing wave of runners around the world—and increasingly in Thailand—are embracing “Jeffing”, a run-walk method that’s gaining traction for its accessibility, injury prevention benefits, and surprising effectiveness in boosting endurance. Named after US Olympian Jeff Galloway, the method alternates between short periods of running and walking, offering a refreshed approach to running that’s changing the way both beginners and seasoned athletes tackle the sport. With new research and growing testimonials, Jeffing is steadily becoming a staple in global fitness routines, inspiring more Thais to hit the tracks, parks, and city streets with renewed enthusiasm.

A new wave of fitness research is transforming the way we think about exercise, spotlighting ultra-short, high-intensity workouts as a powerful and time-efficient alternative to traditional gym routines. Recent reports have captured international attention by showcasing that just two minutes of targeted exercise may deliver health benefits equivalent to much longer conventional workouts—a revelation particularly relevant for busy Thais who struggle to find time for fitness.

For many in Thailand, where urban commuting, demanding work hours, and family obligations leave little time for prolonged gym sessions, the prospect of a scientifically validated two-minute workout presents an appealing solution. At the heart of this trend is a growing body of research supporting High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), specifically “micro-workouts” that combine maximal effort with minimal duration. These workouts can be done at home or in small spaces, using movements such as burpees, squat jumps, or fast stair climbs.

Allergy season is hitting harder and lasting longer for millions—not just in the United States but in Thailand as well—with experts identifying rising pollen counts as a key factor behind worsening symptoms for allergy sufferers this year. Recent media reports in the US, such as NBC Chicago’s coverage on accelerating allergy seasons, have highlighted spikes in troublesome allergens like maple, birch, and ash pollen, a phenomenon that now resonates globally and carries specific significance for Thai residents as well.

Intermittent fasting has surged in popularity as a dietary trend, championed for its potential to unlock weight loss and better health. Recent research, including new studies published this year, is bringing a more nuanced view to the discussion—offering fresh insights as well as cautionary notes for Thai readers exploring this lifestyle change.

For Thais keeping an eye on health trends, intermittent fasting (IF) has been touted everywhere—from fitness influencers on YouTube to community health clinics. IF typically means limiting food intake to certain windows during the day, such as an 8-hour eating period followed by a 16-hour fast. This approach has been championed for its potential to burn fat, improve metabolic health, and even support longevity.

A recent study published in the journal Mental Health and Physical Activity has revealed that pairing step-tracking with mindfulness training through a mobile app not only encourages people to exercise more, but crucially increases their motivation to maintain this healthy habit. This innovative approach could offer much-needed support for Thai individuals seeking sustainable ways to be more physically active amid growing concerns about sedentary lifestyles and related health risks.

Physical inactivity affects a third of the global adult population, including many in Thailand, and is known to contribute to conditions such as depression and anxiety. Previous research shows that increasing physical activity improves mental health outcomes on par with standard psychotherapeutic and pharmaceutical treatments, yet long-term adherence remains a challenge due to flagging motivation World Health Organization.

As the afternoon slump sets in and the aroma of bubble tea or a tempting chocolate snack wafts through the office, many find themselves reaching for a sugary or caffeinated pick-me-up—often with little resistance. Yet, according to recent research highlighted in a new report by Channel News Asia, these everyday cravings may reveal more than just a passing sweet tooth; they are deeply connected to how individuals cope with stress and regulate their emotional wellbeing (Channel News Asia).

Recent research and expert commentary have shed new light on early dementia symptoms, revealing that persistent low mood and anxiety are among the most common initial indicators—appearing well before notable memory loss in some individuals. As highlighted by a leading neurologist in a recent interview, these subtle psychological changes are often dismissed as typical signs of ageing or everyday stress, but they may in fact signal the onset of cognitive decline (GetSurrey; Nottinghamshire Live).

Thai health-conscious snackers and fitness enthusiasts have fresh reason to reach for nuts after a wave of new research highlights both their protein power and broader nutritional value. The latest findings, including a May 2025 overview in Women’s Health Magazine and new updates from nutrition experts and scientific studies, confirm that some nuts—while small in size—pack an outsized nutritional punch that extends beyond just protein to include a wealth of vital micronutrients (Women’s Health Magazine). But for those specifically looking for the highest plant-based protein content, the rankings may surprise you and offer practical benefits for both everyday wellness and longevity.

A new study has found that more than half of the beauty and personal-care products used by Black and Latina women in Los Angeles contain formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing chemicals, highlighting a worrying connection between daily grooming habits and exposure to cancer-causing substances. Published on May 8, 2025 in Environmental Science & Technology Letters, the study has reignited calls from health experts and advocacy groups for tighter regulation of cosmetic ingredients and greater transparency for consumers—concerns that resonate far beyond the United States, including in Thailand’s rapidly growing beauty industry.

A new wave of scientific scrutiny is challenging the long-standing “10,000 steps a day” mantra widely followed by fitness enthusiasts in Thailand and worldwide. In a recent appearance on the School of Greatness Podcast, renowned biochemist Dr. Rhonda Patrick ignited a controversy by labeling the 10,000-step benchmark as an inefficient use of time, recommending instead just 10 minutes of vigorous exercise per day as more impactful for health and longevity (yahoo.com).

In a promising development for anyone struggling to maintain regular physical activity, recent research highlights that combining exercise with another enjoyable activity can significantly enhance motivation to work out. According to a new report covered by Psychology Today, this innovative strategy could hold the key to overcoming common barriers to exercising — an issue especially relevant as Thai society faces rising rates of sedentary lifestyles and related health challenges.

The central finding of the study, as summarized in the Psychology Today article, is that when individuals merge workouts with other pleasurable experiences — such as listening to their favorite music or podcasts while jogging, or exercising with friends — their willingness to participate in physical activity increases markedly. This approach, sometimes referred to as “temptation bundling” in behavioral science literature, leverages the psychological principle of making a less favored task (exercise) more appealing by coupling it with an activity that is intrinsically enjoyable.

Childhood nutrition could play a powerful role in when Thai girls experience their first period, with new research revealing that a healthier diet may significantly reduce the risk of early menstruation. This development is especially significant for families and educators in Thailand, as earlier onset of menstruation—or menarche—is linked to increased health risks later in life, including heightened breast cancer risk, metabolic disorders, and psychological challenges.

Across the globe, girls are beginning their periods at younger ages than in previous generations. In Thailand, this shift has not gone unnoticed. Health officials and school counselors have observed similar trends, raising concerns about the long-term health impacts and the additional emotional burden placed on young girls, who must navigate adolescence sooner than expected. Early menstruation is strongly associated with various chronic diseases in adulthood, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and hormone-related cancers, according to the World Health Organization and recent Thai Ministry of Public Health reports (cnn.com).

A paradigm-shifting international study, just published in Nature Reviews Neuroscience, is transforming our scientific understanding of how the human brain engages with music. Led by a University of Connecticut research group, the project proposes a “neural resonance theory” (NRT) that describes how our brains physically sync with musical rhythms and melodies, providing groundbreaking insight into why music moves us—literally and emotionally.

This research is significant for the Thai public, as it not only broadens the global dialogue on music’s universal power but also points to direct health, cultural, and educational applications. From community wai kru ceremonies and mor lam performances to everyday karaoke, music permeates Thai social life. Understanding its deep neurological basis may help in designing interventions for well-being, cognitive enhancement, and even healthcare.

A new study has brought to light a critical link between girls’ dietary habits and the age at which they reach puberty, with profound implications for health, education, and family life in Thailand and worldwide. Traditionally, genetics and body size have been considered the main predictors of when a girl will experience menarche—her first menstrual period. However, this latest research, published in the journal Human Reproduction, suggests that what girls eat may be an even more significant driver, potentially influencing long-term risk for several chronic diseases. The findings underscore the importance of early nutrition, not only for immediate wellbeing but also for shaping health trajectories long into adulthood (Earth.com).

A new international study has found that adults over 50 who receive the shingles vaccine can dramatically reduce their risk of major cardiovascular events—including stroke, heart failure, and heart disease—by as much as 23% for up to eight years following vaccination. The findings, published in the European Heart Journal in early May and quickly covered by global outlets such as the European Society of Cardiology and Science Daily, mark a significant turning point for public health, suggesting that the benefits of the vaccine extend far beyond protection against the painful rash caused by herpes zoster.

In a world where time is increasingly scarce, new scientific research offers hope for those struggling to fit exercise into their busy routines: just 10 or 15 minutes of vigorous activity per day may be enough to see meaningful health gains. According to findings recently summarized by a leading sports scientist, short workouts—often called “exercise snacks”—can provide substantial improvements in cardiorespiratory health, lower the risk of disease, and help support a balanced lifestyle, even amidst the demands of modern life (The Conversation).

A simple tennis ball could be your new health assessment tool—with major implications for longevity. Recent research and expert commentary reveal that grip strength, easily measured by how hard and long you can squeeze a tennis ball, stands out as a key predictor of how long and how well you will live. This insight, highlighted in a widely circulated article from The Independent and supported by global and Thai-specific studies, is quickly changing how doctors and health professionals worldwide assess—and recommend interventions for—healthy aging (The Independent; BBC).

A recent story from India has ignited regional discussion around adolescent sexuality, as an acclaimed television actress publicly shared her thoughts on gifting her 16-year-old daughter a sex toy. The striking admission has challenged entrenched taboos and inspired experts and parents across Asia, including Thailand, to reflect on the importance of open, judgment-free conversations with teenagers regarding sexual health, pleasure, and safety.

The original interview with the actress, published in The Indian Express, detailed her readiness to support her daughter’s curiosity in a healthy, honest manner. She stressed that if her daughter wished to discuss topics such as masturbation or ask for a sex toy, it would be met with openness, not shame. This approach, the actress argues, reduces stigma and is an act of responsible, modern parenting.

A growing body of research has drawn attention to a little-known yet crucial muscle deep within the human body—the psoas. Often overshadowed by more well-known muscles, the psoas is now being recognized by medical professionals and physical therapists as instrumental to core stability, movement, and even mental well-being, according to recent coverage by Literary Hub. Understanding its role may change long-standing approaches to rehabilitation, exercise, and health maintenance, with potential benefits for millions, including those in Thailand where sedentary lifestyles and chronic back pain are increasingly common.

Fears of humanity’s extinction may sound far-fetched, but scientists are warning that global birth rates are falling so fast, some populations could eventually disappear unless women have more children. According to recent research synthesized by experts and highlighted in a much-discussed feature on population trends, the world could see dozens of countries’ populations shrinking by 2100 due to persistently low fertility rates—a phenomenon with profound implications for economies, societies, and the future of human civilization itself (Daily Mail).

As Thailand’s wet season transitions into the hot months, many residents find themselves reaching for tissues—uncertain whether their persistent sneezes, sniffles, and scratchy throats are signs of a lingering cold or responses to the rising pollen count. With research indicating that allergy seasons globally are starting earlier and lasting longer due to climate change, understanding the difference between allergies and the common cold has never been more important—especially for those living in Bangkok and other urban centres prone to increasingly severe air pollution and dense greenery (theguardian.com).

A new wave of medical research and expert consensus is dispelling age-old myths about muscle soreness following exercise and highlighting what it really means for health and fitness enthusiasts, including Thai readers exploring their own fitness journeys. Contrary to the popular adage “No pain, no gain,” the latest findings suggest that post-exercise soreness, known as delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), is neither a requirement for progress nor an indicator of workout success, challenging beliefs that have been glorified in both international pop culture and Thai fitness circles for decades (The Guardian).

A wave of new neuroscience research is challenging centuries-old stereotypes about the fundamental differences between male and female brains, revealing a far more nuanced and overlapping landscape than previously assumed. This comes as modern brain imaging and artificial intelligence (AI) analyses provide the most detailed look yet at the structure and function of human brains—questioning deeply rooted ideas about gender and intellect. The findings carry real implications for how Thai society understands intelligence, gender, and health, as well as for the treatment of neurological and psychiatric conditions.