#ResearchNews

A new study from Boston University suggests beta-glucan fiber supplements may help reduce certain PFAS, the so‑called “forever chemicals,” in the blood. In four weeks, participants taking oat-based beta-glucan before meals showed an average eight percent drop in PFAS levels, especially the long-chain varieties linked to cancer and other health issues. The finding is generating interest for health systems worldwide, including in Thailand, where PFAS exposure is a growing concern.

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).

Regular exercise can prevent a steep winter decline in vitamin D levels, offering an alternative to supplements, according to a new study led by researchers from the University of Bath, University of Cambridge, and University of Birmingham. The findings, relevant for both global audiences and Thailand, provide practical advice for maintaining musculoskeletal and immune health during months with limited sunlight, when the risk of vitamin D deficiency sharply increases (BBC).

A new study led by researchers from the University of Bath, the University of Cambridge, and the University of Birmingham shows that regular indoor exercise can blunt the winter drop in vitamin D. The findings offer a practical alternative to supplements for maintaining bone, muscle, and immune health during months with limited sun exposure, with relevance for global readers and Thai audiences alike.

Vitamin D, often called the “sunshine vitamin,” is essential for bone and muscle strength and immune function. In the United Kingdom, more than 10% of adults are believed to have insufficient vitamin D. In Thailand, research indicates that between 34% and 77% of adults experience deficiency or insufficiency, despite the country’s tropical climate. Urban living, sun avoidance, and air pollution contribute to low levels, making these results particularly meaningful for Thailand.

A long-standing puzzle about why orange cats are so commonly male has been finally explained by new genetic research published in Current Biology. Scientists identified a specific deletion in DNA near the ARHGAP36 gene on the X chromosome. This mutation activates orange fur production, clarifying why most orange cats are male, while females require two copies to display full orange coloration. The discovery also explains why calico and tortoiseshell patterns are predominantly female, due to different X-chromosome inactivation. The findings come from independent studies by teams from a renowned U.S. university and a leading Japanese university, marking a milestone in feline genetics and veterinary science.

A century-old mystery surrounding the striking orange coats of domestic cats has finally been unraveled by new genetic research published on May 15 in the journal Current Biology (source). Scientists have identified a unique “meow-tation” in feline DNA that not only gives orange cats their distinctive hues, but also explains why the vast majority of them are male—a question that has perplexed geneticists and cat fanciers alike since the early 20th century.

Lowering high blood pressure, or hypertension, has long been a health priority in Thailand and around the world. Now, new research suggests that you may not need access to a gym or expensive equipment—just a few weeks and five easy movements done at home could make a measurable difference. A recent study, widely covered by reputable health news platforms such as Get Surrey and the British Journal of Sports Medicine, illustrates that certain isometric exercises—static muscle contractions such as wall sits and planks—can effectively and significantly lower blood pressure when practiced regularly over as little as four to five weeks (Get Surrey).

Hypertension is a growing concern in Thailand, rising with aging, urban lifestyles, and diet. New research suggests you can lower blood pressure at home with just four to five weeks of five easy movements, without gym equipment. Studies in reputable outlets and journals show that isometric exercises—static muscle contractions like wall sits and planks—can meaningfully reduce blood pressure when done regularly.

This finding resonates in Thailand where high blood pressure often shows no early symptoms but leads to strokes, heart disease, and kidney problems. Thailand’s health authorities have long promoted activity, but busy work life and limited access to facilities challenge daily exercise. The approach below offers a safe, inexpensive option that fits urban offices and rural homes alike.