#StudentHealth

A new digital grassroots movement is gaining momentum on American college campuses, where students, inspired by social media and a growing distrust of mainstream nutrition advice, are rejecting ultra-processed foods, plastics, and so-called “forever chemicals” in favor of a “crunchy,” whole foods lifestyle. As reported in a recent New York Post feature, this subculture—previously confined to niche communities—has found energised new leaders among young people broadcasting their holistic health crusades on TikTok.

A groundbreaking new study has found that children who demonstrate higher levels of curiosity may be at a lower risk of developing depression in adulthood, opening new avenues for both prevention and early intervention strategies in mental health. This research, which has gained attention in both academic and mental health communities worldwide, adds weight to the growing understanding that childhood psychological characteristics can have long-term impacts on mental wellbeing.

The significance of this finding lies particularly in its potential influence on how parents, educators, and policymakers approach early childhood development. In Thailand, where student mental health has become a major topic amid rising depression rates and pandemic-related disruptions, understanding the role curiosity plays could inform both classroom strategies and broader public health efforts. As depression is a leading cause of disability and lost productivity globally, including in Thailand, early predictors and preventatives are constantly in demand. According to the World Health Organization, depression affects more than 264 million people globally, disrupting lives and placing a strain on health systems and families alike World Health Organization.

A new study in Frontiers in Physiology has revealed promising results for college students seeking to improve their recovery and performance after intense exercise: the combined use of probiotic supplements and regular aerobic exercise markedly enhances the body’s antioxidant capacity, reducing exercise-induced stress and boosting aerobic fitness. The findings point to a practical, science-backed strategy for young people in Thailand and beyond who face the demands of academic and physical activities, potentially reshaping future training and recovery habits among university populations.