Health

Intermittent fasting has gained attention for its potential metabolic benefits, but questions remain about which regimen is most effective and how it compares to continuous energy restriction. To address these questions, researchers analyzed data from over 9,800 participants across 153 studies, focusing on three common intermittent fasting regimens: time-restricted eating, alternate-day fasting, and the 5:2 diet. These were compared with continuous energy restriction and usual diets.

Alcohol is often used as a sleep aid—with some people crediting a “nightcap” with helping them fall asleep more easily. But while it might be nice to unwind after a long day with a glass of wine or a beer, alcohol may not be as beneficial for sleep as some think. In fact, it may actually lead to a worse night’s sleep overall.

“Saturday Night Fever” hit the silver screen in 1977 and epitomized the culture of the time. Disco music, flared trousers and pure escapism. Saturdays remain the most popular night for going out, although it has very much moved on from the days of John Travolta and bell-bottoms. But the pleasure-seeking lifestyle has remained and spawned a collection of what might be referred to as the “Saturday night conditions.”

Air pollution has an alarming effect on global health. In 2019, it was responsible for 4.2 million global deaths. Inhaling air pollution harms health in many different ways beyond simply having effects on the lungs. Over 70% of air pollution deaths are due to cardiovascular diseases—diseases of the heart and blood vessels, such as heart attacks and strokes.

When British TV doctor Michael Mosley died last year in Greece after walking in extreme heat, local police said “heat exhaustion” was a contributing factor.

A new study led by a Georgia State University researcher finds that the opioid epidemic and rural homelessness are exacerbating each other with devastating consequences.

The fires raging in Los Angeles have destroyed thousands of structures, and the death toll is rising. Along with the wildfires, residents must deal with other hazards: smoke and ash.

Community health workers were found to be the unsung heroes of the health care system’s pandemic response, according to a study led by a team of public health researchers from the University of California, Irvine, and their community partners. Findings also show that current funding and reimbursement mechanisms remain inadequate to sustain their work.

Wildfire smoke is about 10 times as toxic as the regular air pollution from the burning of fossil fuels, and there’s no safe level of exposure, Stanford experts say, the more we breathe, the worse the range of health outcomes.

Low back pain is a leading cause of disability worldwide with many treatments, such as medication, often failing to provide lasting relief. Researchers from the University of Sydney’s Center for Rural Health have uncovered a possible solution. Their study, published in JAMA Network Open, found integrating lifestyle support into back pain care could reduce disability and enhance quality of life.