Opioids have a profound impact on the world, but our understanding of how these drugs work is surprisingly limited. While substances like heroin and fentanyl may come to mind when we think of opioids, the human body actually has its own opioid system that plays a crucial role in the brain’s reward and aversion pathways.
Health
Many people are making the wise choice to drink fewer sugary soft drinks, recognizing the health risks associated with diets high in sugar-sweetened beverages. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends reducing daily intake of free sugars to less than 10% of total energy intake. However, most regular soft drinks contain a significant amount of added
When viruses invade our bodies, they can leave behind fragments of their DNA that become integrated into our genomes. These remnants, known as endogenous retroviruses (ERVs), were once considered to be inactive and insignificant. However, recent research has revealed that these “zombie virus” parts can have a significant impact on human health. University of Colorado
In a world where social media is flooded with skincare advice and products promising to protect your skin from various harmful elements, it’s no surprise that blue light has become a hot topic. But what is the truth behind the claims that scrolling on our phones can damage our skin? Let’s dive into the evidence
Recent studies suggesting that moderate alcohol consumption can have health benefits, including extending your life, have come under scrutiny by a team of scientists from the University of Victoria. The team, led by psychologist Tim Stockwell and epidemiologist Jinhui Zhao, conducted a meta-analysis of 107 scientific studies to investigate the association between alcohol consumption and
Recent accidental findings by scientists have brought to light a potential new treatment for hereditary-patterned baldness, a common issue affecting both men and women globally. The discovery of the effectiveness of deoxyribose sugar in promoting hair regrowth has opened up new possibilities in the field of hair loss treatment. While initially studying the wound-healing properties
The placebo effect, a phenomenon where people experience pain relief without the use of actual drugs or surgery, has long been a subject of fascination and mystery. It is intriguing how the power of expectation and belief can lead to tangible changes in our perception of pain. Scientists have been striving to unravel the underlying
Recent research conducted by scientists at the Duke-National University of Singapore (NUS) Medical School has shed light on the potential role of a protein called interleukin 11 (IL-11) in the aging process. The study involved genetically engineering mice to block the effects of IL-11, resulting in a significant extension of their lifespans by up to
Mindfulness has gained immense popularity in recent years as a way to combat stress and improve mental health. This Buddhist-based form of meditation focuses on being aware of one’s thoughts, sensations, and feelings in the present moment. While it may seem like a harmless practice, the reality is that there are hidden dangers associated with
Plastics have become a ubiquitous presence in our daily lives, with tiny fragments now being found in major organs such as the placenta. This raises significant concerns about the impact of microplastics on our health. Researchers have conducted various studies to investigate the effects of microplastics on organ replicas and mice. However, the concentrations of
The emergence of long COVID-19 since 2020 has undeniably been a significant global health concern that has affected millions of individuals worldwide. This condition, characterized by persistent health effects following infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has garnered extensive scientific attention, with over 24,000 scientific publications dedicated to its study. From respiratory symptoms to debilitating fatigue
Sleep is an essential aspect of our overall well-being. We all crave a good night’s sleep, but sometimes achieving it can be a challenge. Many of us are aware of the benefits of regular exercise on sleep quality. However, the timing and intensity of exercise in relation to bedtime have been points of contention. While
In the annals of human history, few diseases have struck fear into the hearts of populations like the bubonic plague. Originating in Europe, this deadly disease caused havoc during three major pandemics over the past 1,500 years. The first outbreak occurred from the fifth to the seventh century, claiming the lives of approximately 15 million
The search for alcohol hangover cures has been ongoing for centuries, with various remedies and methods being touted as effective solutions. One such recent claim involves taking a shot of olive oil before consuming alcohol to prevent hangovers. This idea has gained popularity, especially after being discussed by figures like music producer Benny Blanco on
The idea that consuming fewer calories can lead to a longer and healthier life has been a topic of research for over a century. However, a recent study has shed light on a new perspective regarding this phenomenon. Researchers from the US and UK conducted a study on mice and found that an imbalance between