#Wellness

Waking up with a tight chest, a pit in the stomach, or a racing mind isn’t simply a reaction to an impending deadline or a daunting to-do list—scientific research and clinical experts confirm that “morning anxiety” is a real phenomenon affecting many people around the world, including Thais. New research and expert guidance explained in a recent article from The Washington Post emphasise that while this feeling is normal, there are effective ways to manage it and improve morning well-being (washingtonpost.com).

A viral wellness trend promoting raw, unpasteurized milk has surged online, drawing warnings from medical experts and public health officials. Influencers on platforms like TikTok and Instagram tout supposed benefits, while health professionals stress significant risks from consuming unpasteurized dairy. This social-media-driven movement reaches urban Thai audiences quickly, challenging long-standing food-safety wisdom and affecting local readers.

Interest in raw milk isn’t new, but its rapid spread on social media adds a modern twist. Advocates claim unpasteurized milk preserves enzymes and nutrients harmed by pasteurization and may aid digestion. Messages tied to primal living and natural health draw millions of views, appealing especially to younger wellness followers who question mainstream food processing. However, these narratives often lack robust science and overlook documented dangers.

A viral “wellness” trend—drinking raw, unpasteurized milk—has swept through online communities, raising alarm among medical experts and public health officials worldwide. As influencers tout raw milk’s supposed health benefits on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, healthcare professionals urgently warn of serious risks associated with consuming unpasteurized dairy. This surge in interest, driven largely by social media wellness influencers, is confronting long-standing public health wisdom and challenging how consumers in Thailand, and elsewhere, assess food safety.

A fresh wave of research is shaking up the fitness world with an answer to the age-old gym debate: should you do cardio before or after lifting weights? According to a new study reported by The Conversation and published on June 9, 2025, performing strength training before cardiovascular exercise leads to greater fat loss, improved muscle performance, and more daily physical activity than reversing the sequence (theconversation.com).

In Thailand, where urban lifestyles and wellness trends increasingly intertwine, this scientifically-backed advice could reshape routines for everyone from gym-goers to those seeking healthier lifestyles. The study’s findings are especially timely, as obesity and non-communicable diseases remain national challenges despite government campaigns to increase physical activity. For Thai readers—from students in Bangkok’s bustling neighborhoods to retirees prioritizing health in Chiang Mai—the research offers practical insight into maximizing each workout.

The opening moments of any workout can feel daunting, but cutting-edge scientific research now reveals just how profoundly your body and brain begin to transform in the first ten minutes of physical activity. From surging heartbeats to neurochemical shifts that sharpen your mind, these early minutes lay the groundwork for long-term health, sharper thinking, and even a brighter mood—a finding that has significant resonance for Thai readers striving for balanced wellness in daily life.

New research shows that the body and brain begin a rapid transformation within the first ten minutes of physical activity. In those early moments, heart rate rises, circulation shifts, and brain chemistry changes set the stage for long-term health, sharper thinking, and a brighter mood. This is especially relevant for Thai readers balancing忙 schedules and urban stress.

In Thailand’s fast-paced environment, the evidence matters. Many people know exercise is beneficial, yet busy lives can make regular workouts feel out of reach. The takeaway is simple: you don’t need a perfect routine. Just ten minutes of movement—brisk walking, stair climbing, or light jogs—can trigger a cascade of positive responses in the body and mind. Research summarized by National Geographic highlights this quick-start effect.

A supplement once hailed as a game-changer for longevity enthusiasts is now undergoing a drastic reappraisal. Taurine, long a darling of the global biohacker community and increasingly popular among health-conscious Thais, appears to be much less effective as an anti-aging elixir than early studies suggested, according to several recent authoritative studies and expert opinions (Nature, LiveScience, STAT News, NY Post). In a scientific reversal, longitudinal data reveals taurine levels actually remain stable, or even rise, as humans and research animals age, casting doubt on its use as a universal biomarker for aging and on the wisdom of supplement-fueled anti-aging regimes.

A supplement once celebrated by biohackers and wellness enthusiasts is facing a rigorous re-examination. Taurine, a naturally occurring amino acid widely used in energy drinks and dietary supplements, may be far less effective as an anti-aging tool than early studies suggested. Recent research and expert commentary indicate taurine levels do not consistently decline with age, challenging its role as a universal biomarker for aging or as a reliable longevity strategy.

A large new study challenges the idea that eating fewer calories automatically benefits mental health. The research, published in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health, analyzed data from more than 28,000 adults and found that those on calorie-restricted diets—especially men and people who are overweight—reported higher depressive symptoms than those not on such diets. This finding is based on data from multiple national health surveys and national nutrition programs.

Lead author, a psychiatrist and clinician-researcher at a renowned Toronto hospital and its university, urges caution with overly restrictive eating plans. He notes that balanced, sustainable dietary changes that meet nutritional needs and account for psychological well-being may help minimize mood-related risks.

A major new study has cast doubt on the widely held belief that calorie restriction is inherently beneficial for mental health, with fresh evidence suggesting that cutting calories too far may actually increase the risk of depressive symptoms. The research, published in the journal BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health, analyzed data from over 28,000 adults and found that individuals following calorie-restricted diets—especially men and those who are overweight—were more likely to report heightened symptoms of depression compared to those not on such diets (CNN, BMJ Nutrition).

A growing body of research is challenging the controversial reputation of omega-6 fatty acids, suggesting that a diet rich in linoleic acid — the main omega-6 found in nuts and vegetable oils — may substantially lower the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. These findings signal important implications for Thai health, where heart disease and diabetes are among the leading causes of illness and death.

Cardiometabolic health, or the collective well-being of the heart, blood vessels, and metabolic systems, is a crucial marker of long-term health outcomes. In Thailand, the dual threats of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes profoundly impact communities, families, and the nation’s economy. Traditional Thai diets, once centred on fresh produce, fish, rice, and moderate use of oils, are rapidly converging with global food trends — bringing concerns over the increased consumption of processed foods and changing fat profiles. Against this backdrop, understanding the impact of dietary fats on health is especially relevant for Thai readers seeking guidance in a sea of conflicting nutrition advice.

New research suggests that linoleic acid, the main omega-6 fatty acid found in nuts and vegetable oils, could be linked to lower risks of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. This challenges the idea that omega-6 fats are harmful and has clear implications for Thailand, where heart disease and diabetes are major health concerns.

Healthy cardiometabolic health — the well-being of the heart, blood vessels, and metabolism — matters for long-term outcomes. In Thailand, cardiovascular disease and diabetes place a heavy burden on families and the economy. Traditional Thai eating patterns emphasize fresh produce, fish, rice, and moderate oil use, but global dietary trends are pushing more processed foods and different fat profiles into everyday meals. Understanding fats’ impact is highly relevant for Thai readers navigating conflicting nutrition advice.

Children in preteen years who regularly dine with family and spend quality time with parents enjoy longer, healthier sleep than peers caught up in family conflict or glued to screens, according to groundbreaking research presented at the SLEEP 2025 annual meeting. The findings, revealed in a study conducted by a team led by a postdoctoral researcher at SRI International in Menlo Park, California, shine a spotlight on how family dynamics and parental involvement can work as powerful levers to boost sleep health in Thai children aged 9 to 11—a critical stage for growth and development (Neuroscience News).

A new study presented at the SLEEP 2025 conference shows that Thai children aged 9 to 11 sleep better when they eat dinner with family and spend meaningful time with parents. These simple routines appear to be strong predictors of longer, healthier sleep, especially compared with households marked by conflict, distance, or heavy screen use. The research was led by a postdoctoral researcher at SRI International in Menlo Park, California, and analyzed data from nearly 5,000 children.

A fresh study challenges a popular fitness trend, suggesting that repeated cold plunges after workouts could blunt muscle growth by as much as 20%. The research arrives as ice baths and cold immersion gain traction among athletes, wellness influencers, and fitness clubs in Thailand and beyond.

Cold water immersion has long been marketed as a fast track to reduced soreness and quicker recovery. In Bangkok and other Thai cities, many gyms now feature dedicated cold plunge stations, and social media is filled with testimonials from trainers and athletes. Yet new findings warn that post-exercise cold exposure may hinder the very muscle gains many pursue.

A widely held belief suggests that eating fish can lead to faster, thicker hair growth—but what does science really say about this claim? Recent discussion, as highlighted in an article by The Times of India, puts this myth under the microscope and examines whether including fish in the Thai diet directly results in healthier hair.

For generations, the idea that fish promotes hair growth has held strong cultural appeal in Thailand and across Asia, where diets often feature seafood and fresh-water fish. The basis for this belief stems from the nutrient profile of fish, which are rich sources of high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA and DHA. These nutrients have recognized benefits for overall health, and hair—a protein-based structure—certainly depends on diet for its strength and vitality. According to Harvard Health, deficiencies in key nutrients such as iron, vitamin D, and omega-3s have been linked with hair thinning and loss.

A popular belief holds that eating fish can speed up hair growth and make hair thicker. But what does science actually say? This debate has resurfaced as media outlets question whether fish in a Thai diet directly improves hair health.

In Thailand and much of Asia, seafood is a dietary staple. The nutrition behind this belief lies in fish’s high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA and DHA. Hair growth relies on protein and overall health, so it makes sense to consider diet. Data from respected health resources show that deficiencies in iron, vitamin D, and omega-3s can contribute to thinning hair.

A growing body of evidence shows a powerful two-way link between exercise and sleep. In Thailand, where inadequate activity and sleep deprivation are rising, experts say understanding this relationship could help people break unhealthy cycles, improve mood, and boost long-term health.

Recent international research summarized by major outlets indicates that regular exercise helps people fall asleep faster, sleep more deeply, and support the body’s nightly repair work. At the same time, solid sleep is essential for consistent, effective workouts, creating a positive feedback loop for overall health. Data from Thai health surveys echo this, with many adults not meeting seven hours of sleep per night and sedentary behavior remaining a public health concern. Public health specialists emphasize the need to address both exercise and sleep together to maximize benefits for Thai communities.

A growing body of research is illuminating the profound synergy between exercise and sleep, revealing that moving your body doesn’t just tone your muscles—it could also be the missing ingredient for your deepest, healthiest rest. Thai health professionals are now paying close attention to this dynamic, given rising rates of both inadequate physical activity and chronic sleep deprivation across the country. Understanding this critical relationship could help the Thai public break unhealthy cycles, improve mental well-being, and foster long-term health.

A new review in Gastroenterology highlights a fast-growing field: the link between exercise and gut health. For fitness-minded Thai readers, the message is clear— caring for your gut may unlock better performance, quicker recovery, and longer-term well-being, not just toned muscles.

The core takeaway stretches beyond elite athletes. A diverse, healthy microbiome appears to enhance workouts, speed up recovery, and curb exercise-related inflammation. In Thailand, where fermented foods like fish sauce, fermented vegetables, and other traditional staples shape daily diets, these findings connect everyday food choices with real workout outcomes and gut health.

A newly published study has cast fresh doubts over one of fitness culture’s most buzzed-about trends, revealing that repeated cold plunges may significantly stunt gains in muscle growth—by as much as 20%, according to research highlighted by Boing Boing. The findings arrive as ice baths and cold immersion routines surge in popularity among athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and even wellness influencers in Thailand and worldwide.

In recent years, plunging into icy water has been widely marketed for benefits ranging from boosting recovery to enhancing overall well-being. Many fitness centres in Bangkok now offer cold plunge stations, and social media is crowded with testimonials from amateur and professional trainers alike. Yet despite these claims, new research cautions that cold water therapy—particularly when used post-workout—could be counterproductive for those seeking maximum muscle gains.

A new review published in the journal Gastroenterology highlights a rapidly-growing field of research: the crucial connection between physical exercise and the health of the gut microbiome, the vast ecosystem of trillions of microorganisms living in the human digestive tract. For Thai readers passionate about fitness, wellbeing, and science-based health guidance, this emerging evidence suggests that taking care of more than just your muscles could be the key to maximising your training results and long-term health (smh.com.au).

A recent study highlighted by Business Standard reveals that regular, moderate-to-high intensity exercise can serve as a powerful tool in significantly reducing the burden of negative thoughts such as rumination and worry—a finding that holds meaningful implications for mental well-being in Thailand and beyond (Business Standard). With negative thinking habits commonly linked to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life, this research offers a practical, accessible approach for individuals seeking to enhance their emotional resilience.

A growing body of research highlights menopause as a pivotal life transition that can be managed with holistic care. Experts emphasize that comprehensive health strategies in the 40s and 50s can help women thrive, not simply endure, through midlife. In Western and Asian contexts alike, findings from respected medical centers stress that informed lifestyle choices and access to appropriate care shape better sleep, heart and bone health, mental clarity, and emotional balance.