Why Water Bottles Get Dirty

Every sip introduces bacteria from your mouth, and touching lids or straws transfers germs from your hands. Bottles often have narrow openings, crevices, and threads that trap moisture, creating ideal conditions for mold and bacterial growth.

“It seems like something mundane, but it is extremely important,” said Michele Knepper, a nurse practitioner at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

Neglecting to clean bottles can lead to minor health issues such as stomach discomfort or throat irritation, and may worsen allergies or asthma in some individuals.

Cleaning Basics: Simple Yet Effective

All bottle materials—plastic, glass, or metal—can harbor bacteria, though plastic bottles may scratch more easily, creating additional microbial hiding spots.

The simplest cleaning method is also one of the most effective: scrub the inside and outside with warm, soapy water using a sponge or bottle brush. Rinse thoroughly and let the bottle air dry before the next use. Specialized brushes or pipe-cleaner tools can reach straws and tight corners.

For a deeper clean, bottles that are dishwasher-safe can be placed in the dishwasher. Alternatively, dissolve a denture or retainer-cleaning tablet in water overnight, or scrub with a warm solution of vinegar or baking soda.

Experts recommend a daily rinse and wash for general use, with a more thorough weekly cleaning. If daily washing feels burdensome, aim for at least every few days while maintaining good habits, like rinsing the mouthpiece after each refill, said Dr. Mike Ren, a family medicine physician at Baylor College of Medicine.

When to Clean More Frequently

If your bottle holds sugary drinks, protein shakes, or sports beverages, cleaning after each use becomes critical. Residues from these liquids provide a nutrient-rich environment that bacteria thrive on.

Is It Safe to Leave Water Overnight?

Opinions vary on leaving water in bottles overnight. Some experts recommend discarding any remaining liquid at each refill, while others say water can safely remain for several hours. Ren suggests that leaving water overnight is generally fine, but old water should not sit for more than a few days.

“Guidelines are guidelines,” Ren said. “Everyone’s going to do it a little bit differently.”

Bottles with visible mold, strange smells, or discoloration should be cleaned immediately, and disposable plastic bottles should not be reused due to cracks and chemical leaching risks.

Maintaining a Healthy Routine

Even minor daily habits can have a meaningful impact on health. Ivy Sun, a hospitality expert at Georgia Southern University who studies water bottle contamination, washes her and her children’s bottles with soap and water every day.

“This is just a very small step that we do, but it can largely help with our health,” Sun said.

Regular cleaning may seem simple, but it ensures that a reusable water bottle remains a safe, hygienic companion for daily hydration.

Source: AP News – Yes, you do need to clean your water bottle. Here’s why and how

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Published: October 11, 2025, 21:45 EDT

Across Germany, mushroom foraging—a centuries-old autumn pastime—is enjoying a resurgence. Driven by pandemic-era outdoor habits, plant-based diets, and social media trends, city dwellers are now joining rural foragers in rediscovering the art of wild mushroom hunting.

Tradition Reborn in the Forests of Potsdam

In a misty oak and beech forest outside Potsdam, veteran mushroom expert Wolfgang Bivour gently laid a basket of freshly gathered fungi on a bed of fallen leaves. Among them were prized porcini and bay boletes, along with the infamous green death caps—lethal if consumed.

Bivour, one of Germany’s most renowned mushroom specialists, guided a group of enthusiasts that included students, retirees, and even a young family visiting from China. For many, it was their first close encounter with Germany’s vibrant fungi culture—a tradition that once defined postwar survival and is now finding new meaning in modern life.

Pandemic, Veganism, and Social Media Drive New Interest

The renewed fascination with foraging took hold during the COVID-19 lockdowns, when Germans sought refuge from confined city apartments by venturing into nature. According to Bivour, the revival has continued as veganism and eco-conscious lifestyles gain momentum across Europe.

Images of colorful mushrooms shared on Instagram and TikTok have transformed what was once considered an old-fashioned hobby into a fashionable, wellness-oriented pursuit. “People are realizing that mushroom hunting isn’t just about food—it’s about understanding the forest,” Bivour said.

A Postwar Necessity Turned Lifestyle Movement

Foraging for mushrooms has deep roots in Germany’s past. After World War II, when food shortages were widespread, families scoured forests for anything edible. But as the economy boomed in the 1950s, the practice faded from mainstream life.

Today, the trend has reversed. “We’ve noticed a huge increase in interest in mushrooms,” said Karin Flegel, managing director of Urania Potsdam, which organizes Bivour’s tours. “Classes fill up instantly, especially in autumn.”

Guided Tours Bring Knowledge and Safety

At 75, Bivour has been leading tours for more than fifty years. A retired meteorologist, he combines scientific expertise with storytelling, teaching participants to identify edible, medicinal, and toxic species.

His tours are not about filling baskets, he said, but about education and respect for biodiversity. “Mushrooms are vital to forest ecosystems—they connect trees, recycle nutrients, and sustain life,” he explained.

Hospitals occasionally seek his help in diagnosing mushroom poisoning cases, a reminder that not all foraging ends well.

Caution and Curiosity Among New Foragers

Despite the growing enthusiasm, many newcomers remain cautious. The toxic green death cap—often mistaken for the common white button mushroom—causes several fatalities in Germany each year, often among immigrants unfamiliar with local species.

University student Tim Köster, 25, joined one of Bivour’s tours with his girlfriend. “I never picked mushrooms as a child,” he said. “It’s fascinating, but I’m not ready to go alone yet.” Instead, he plans to collect mushrooms and consult experts at weekend markets to ensure safety before cooking.

From Forest to Table: Culinary and Cultural Appeal

Foraging also offers a culinary reward. Porcini and bay boletes—two of Germany’s favorite varieties—are often pan-fried in butter and served on sourdough bread or added to creamy sauces.

Participant Margit Reimann, 42, said she was surprised to discover how many edible species exist. Still, she plans to stick to the familiar ones when foraging with her children. “You can’t always trust colors or textures,” she said. “But when enjoyed responsibly, it’s an amazing experience.”

Preserving Biodiversity Through Ancient Wisdom

Beyond the culinary thrill, Bivour believes mushroom hunting carries a deeper environmental message. “Every time someone learns about fungi, they also learn about balance in nature,” he said.

In a time of digital saturation and urban stress, Germany’s renewed love for mushroom foraging serves as a quiet rebellion—a return to mindfulness, sustainability, and the rhythms of the natural world.

Source: AP News – An old tradition finds new life as Germans flock to forests to collect mushrooms

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If you think you’re drinking enough water, think again. Mike Keech, CEO of Liquid I.V., warns that most people—Americans and others worldwide—are actually chronically dehydrated, even if they don’t realize it.

Yet despite this hidden problem, consumers are snapping up hydration products like never before. Liquid I.V. is at the forefront of this booming market, riding a wave of wellness trends that have made hydration more than just a sports recovery fix—it’s now a daily health ritual.

From Athlete Recovery to Everyday Wellness

Liquid I.V. launched in 2012, targeting athletes who needed rapid rehydration after intense workouts. Its flavored powder mix, packed with electrolytes, salt, and vitamins, offered a healthier alternative to sugar-laden sports drinks.

But according to Keech, the hydration category was once “tired and dusty,” mostly confined to endorsements by athletes. That changed after Unilever acquired Liquid I.V. in 2020 and Keech took the helm as CEO. The brand broadened its appeal from athletes to everyday people: busy professionals, parents, gym enthusiasts—essentially anyone looking for an easy way to stay hydrated.

This shift sparked explosive growth. Liquid I.V. doubled its distribution, expanded flavors (including a viral firecracker blend), and launched sugar-free options. Now, it’s on track to become a $1 billion brand, helping Unilever’s wellness segment score double-digit growth.

“We realized hydration isn’t just for athletes,” Keech said. “That’s when everything took off.”

Why Powders Are Taking Over Hydration

For years, hydration was dominated by ready-to-drink liquids like Pedialyte—originally designed to treat dehydration in kids—and Gatorade, the king of sports drinks. But recently, powdered mixes have surged in popularity.

Howard Telford from Euromonitor points to convenience as the key. “Powders fit anywhere—a kitchen counter, a desk drawer, a gym bag. No fridge space needed.” And they taste good, too, especially Liquid I.V.’s blends.

Keech highlights the advantage at festivals like Coachella, where bulky water bottles aren’t practical. Powdered hydration lets people keep going without missing a beat.

The market reflects this shift: powdered hydration products grew 20% in 2024 alone, ballooning into a $1.5 billion category, according to research firm Circana.

A Growing Market, More Players

Liquid I.V.’s success has inspired a flood of competitors—from Gatorade enhancers with 200% sales growth in four years, to Coca-Cola’s BodyArmor hydration line, and startups like diet-friendly LMNT and Novak Djokovic-backed Waterdrop.

“Once a brand hits big, many others jump in,” says consumer expert Nate Rosen. “Especially since electrolyte powders aren’t proprietary—anyone can make them.”

BodyArmor’s revamped hydration powders, Flash I.V., pulled in $120 million their first year. CEO Federico Muyshondt says the pandemic boosted awareness: “During COVID, people realized hydration was vital—not just for feeling good, but for longevity, immunity, and vitamin intake.”

But Does It Really Work?

Liquid I.V. invests heavily in clinical studies to back its claims of “superior hydration” compared to plain water. Their website warns: “If you’re thirsty, you may already be dehydrated.”

However, some experts urge caution. Heidi Skolnik, a senior sports nutritionist, doubts most people with easy water access are truly chronically dehydrated.

“Athletes and very active people can benefit from electrolyte drinks,” she says. “But most people probably don’t need them.”

Still, she agrees flavoring water helps many drink more—making hydration easier and raising awareness of fluid intake, which is a win in itself.

In a nutshell: America’s thirst for better hydration has created a massive business, fueled by convenience, flavor, and wellness trends. Whether you’re a hardcore athlete, a busy parent, or just someone who dislikes plain water, hydration products like Liquid I.V. offer an accessible way to stay refreshed. But remember, sometimes good old water still does the trick.

Source: CNN – How America’s obsession with staying hydrated became a $1.5 billion business

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Let’s be honest: most of us don’t get enough sleep. But even if you think you’re clocking enough hours, do you actually feel rested? That’s the real question sleep experts say we should be asking.

Sleep takes up about a third of our lives, but how much we truly need changes as we grow—and it might be a bit different for each of us. Babies and kids need way more shut-eye than adults, and even seniors require slightly less. So, how much is enough? And does your gender affect your sleep needs? Let’s unpack what the experts are saying.

Quality Over Quantity: What Really Matters in Sleep

“Sleep is a bit of a mystery, but it’s absolutely essential,” says Dr. Rafael Pelayo, a sleep specialist at Stanford University. “It’s the most natural form of self-care we have.”

While most adults are advised to get between 7 to 9 hours per night—the sweet spot linked to the best health outcomes—Pelayo stresses that how you sleep matters just as much as how long.

“The goal is to wake up feeling refreshed,” he explains. “If you sleep a lot but still wake up tired, something’s off. It’s like leaving a restaurant still hungry—that’s not right.”

How Sleep Needs Change Over a Lifetime

Here’s a quick guide to how much sleep different age groups generally need:

• Newborns (0-3 months): 14 to 17 hours
• Infants & Toddlers: 12 to 16 hours (including naps)
• School-age Kids: 9 to 12 hours
• Teenagers (14-17 years): 8 to 10 hours
• Young Adults (18-25 years): 7 to 9 hours (sometimes more)
• Adults (26-64 years): 7 to 9 hours
• Older Adults (65+ years): 7 to 8 hours

Sleep happens in cycles—about every 90 minutes—switching between deep, restorative sleep early in the night and REM sleep later, which helps with memory and learning. Kids spend around half their sleep in deep phases, but that decreases as they grow older.

Do Women Need More Sleep Than Men?

The answer isn’t cut and dry, but studies show women tend to get slightly more sleep than men. Why? Hormonal shifts throughout life play a big role.

Teenage girls often report more insomnia than boys, and life events like pregnancy, menopause, and menstrual cycles can seriously impact sleep quality.

“Menopause can cause frequent nighttime awakenings and poorer sleep overall,” says Dr. Mithri Junna, a sleep neurologist at the Mayo Clinic. Plus, women may find they need extra rest at certain times, like before their period.

“Your body will tell you when it needs more sleep. It’s important to listen,” advises Molly Atwood, a behavioral sleep expert at Johns Hopkins.

When Should You Seek Help?

Not feeling rested despite enough sleep? Here are some signs to watch for:

• Feeling irritable or grumpy
• Trouble focusing during the day
• Waking up tired no matter how long you sleep

Chronic sleep deprivation isn’t just annoying—it can increase your risk of depression, heart problems, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and weaken your immune system.

“If you’re regularly waking up tired, it’s time to talk to your doctor,” Atwood recommends. A sleep specialist can help diagnose issues like sleep apnea or chronic insomnia.

Bottom Line: Sleep Smarter, Not Just Longer

• Adults generally need 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night.
• Focus on sleep quality—waking refreshed beats counting hours.
• Women face unique sleep challenges due to hormonal changes and life stages.
• Poor sleep can lead to serious health issues.
• Don’t hesitate to get professional help if sleep problems persist.

Remember: prioritizing good sleep isn’t just about feeling rested—it’s a key part of your overall health and well-being. So pay attention to your body, create healthy sleep habits, and don’t settle for tired.

Source: AP News – How much sleep do you really need? Experts say it depends

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Heavy Menstrual Bleeding Linked to Fatigue in Menopausal Women

New research has identified a potential link between heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding and fatigue in women transitioning to menopause, shedding light on an often-overlooked symptom.

Approximately 33% of women experience heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding during the transition to menopause. Such episodes can meet the medical definition of abnormal uterine bleeding—excessive in amount, duration, or frequency within a six-month period.

While excessive bleeding is common, research on its connection to other menopausal symptoms has been scarce. However, a new study published in the journal Menopause suggests that frequent heavy bleeding episodes are associated with increased fatigue in menopausal women.

The study, which tracked women over time, is the first to evaluate the relationship between heavy menstrual bleeding and fatigue in premenopausal and perimenopausal women. Lead author Dr. Siobán Harlow, a professor emeritus of epidemiology and obstetrics at the University of Michigan, emphasized the significance of these findings.

“Menstruation remains a subject cloaked in silence and associated with taboos, even within the realm of scientific inquiry,” Harlow stated. “Lack of dialogue about menstruation, particularly about bleeding changes as women approach menopause, leads to a lack of knowledge about what is normal.”

She hopes the findings encourage further research into links between menstrual bleeding, sleep disturbances, and cognitive issues during menopause.

Perimenopause, the phase leading up to menopause, typically lasts three to ten years. It begins when the ovaries gradually reduce hormone production, causing fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels. These changes can lead to irregular periods, mood swings, and other symptoms, including depression and fatigue.

The study analyzed data from 2,329 women who were, on average, 47 years old when they joined the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation in 1996 or 1997. Over a decade, participants provided information about their menstrual and medical histories.

Women documented their menstrual bleeding monthly, noting heavy bleeding as the need to change a sanitary product every hour for over four hours. Prolonged bleeding was defined as lasting more than eight days, while heavy bleeding meant three or more days of very heavy flow.

Researchers assessed participants’ vitality and fatigue levels at multiple visits. They found that:

• Women who had at least three heavy bleeding episodes in six months were 62% more likely to feel tired and 44% more likely to feel worn out.
• Those who had prolonged bleeding were 32% less likely to feel energetic.

Dr. Stephanie Faubion, medical director of The Menopause Society, noted that while the link between heavy menstrual bleeding and fatigue may seem intuitive, it has never been formally studied before. She also pointed out that existing menopause questionnaires do not address bleeding, as menopause is defined by the absence of menstruation.

The fatigue experienced by women with heavy bleeding could stem from iron deficiency or iron deficiency anemia, conditions that result from excessive blood loss. Anemia, caused by low levels of red blood cells or hemoglobin, can lead to fatigue and other health complications.

However, the study did not measure participants’ blood iron levels, making it difficult to confirm iron deficiency as the sole cause. Faubion noted that anemia usually requires significant blood loss to develop. She also suggested other possible explanations, such as:

• Disrupted sleep due to frequent nighttime bleeding, leading to exhaustion.
• Restless leg syndrome, a condition linked to iron deficiency, which can further impair sleep quality.

The study highlights the importance of discussing menstrual irregularities with healthcare providers. Dr. Leana Wen, an emergency physician and adjunct professor at George Washington University, emphasized that women experiencing fatigue should be asked about abnormal menstrual bleeding and tested for iron deficiency.

Women going through menopause are encouraged to track their cycle length, duration of bleeding, and any perceived changes in flow to help identify potential health concerns.

If anemia is the cause of fatigue, treatment involves stopping excessive bleeding and restoring iron levels, often through oral iron supplements. Other treatment options for heavy bleeding include:

• NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) – Can reduce bleeding by 30%.
• Birth control pills – Help regulate menstrual cycles and decrease bleeding.
• Hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) – Reduce bleeding by up to 98%.

Additionally, restless leg syndrome, if linked to iron deficiency, can be managed by correcting iron levels.

Abnormal uterine bleeding should never go unexamined, as it can lead to significant health issues, including anemia and, in some cases, serve as an early warning sign of cancer. Experts urge medical professionals to include bleeding patterns in their assessment of menopausal symptoms and for more research to be conducted on this critical stage of a woman’s life.

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A new large-scale study has revealed that the Mediterranean diet can significantly reduce the risk of developing certain cancers, including prostate, cervical, and colorectal cancer. Additionally, it has been found to lower the risk of cancer-related deaths in women by 17%.

Surprisingly, the study suggests that the Mediterranean diet’s cancer-fighting benefits go beyond weight loss, indicating that factors like reduced inflammation and improved metabolic health may play key roles.

How the Mediterranean Diet Lowers Cancer Risk

The Mediterranean diet is primarily plant-based, featuring:
Fruits and vegetables
Whole grains, beans, and seeds
Extra-virgin olive oil as the main fat source
Minimal red meat and processed foods
Frequent consumption of healthy fish

These nutrient-rich foods are packed with fiber, antioxidants, and phytonutrients, which help combat inflammation and oxidative damage—both of which contribute to cancer development.

“What we put into our bodies every day impacts nearly every function of our body,” says Dr. Neil Iyengar, a breast cancer oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

Key Findings from the Study

Conducted as part of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study, the research analyzed data from 450,000 participants across 10 countries.

Individuals who strictly followed the Mediterranean diet had a 6% lower risk of obesity-related cancers.

Even occasional adherence to the diet showed some protective benefits, proving that small changes can still make a difference.

Interestingly, the study did not find a significant reduction in hormone-related cancers (such as breast cancer), contradicting previous research.

“Even a small reduction in risk at the individual level can prevent thousands of cancer cases on a population level,” said lead researcher Inmaculada Aguilera-Buenosvinos.

How to Transition to a Mediterranean Diet

If you’re used to highly processed Western diets, switching to a Mediterranean diet may feel overwhelming. Experts recommend starting small:

Add blueberries to breakfast
Snack on nuts
Incorporate a salad at lunch
Fill half your dinner plate with vegetables and whole grains
Choose fresh fruit for dessert

“Sustainability is key. This diet isn’t a quick fix—it’s a long-term lifestyle choice,” says dietitian Lindsey Wohlford.

Final Thoughts

This study reinforces what many health experts have long believed—the Mediterranean diet is one of the best choices for long-term health. Whether you’re looking to reduce cancer risk, lose weight, or improve overall well-being, adopting even a few Mediterranean-style eating habits can make a significant impact.

Would you consider switching to a Mediterranean diet for better health? Let us know your thoughts!

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Your skin, our body’s largest organ, spans about 15 to 20 square feet (1.4 to 1.9 square meters) in surface area. If we factor in the nooks and crannies created by sweat ducts and hair follicles, that number could be ten times greater. It’s our body’s first line of defense—keeping harmful substances out while retaining the essential elements inside.

In the United States, cleanliness is highly prioritized, with many people reaching for beauty and personal care products. In 2024, the beauty and personal care market in the U.S. was valued at over $100 billion, and it’s projected to keep growing. Shampoos, soaps, deodorants, and lotions line pharmacy aisles, and the quest for cleanliness seems endless.

But, is all of this really necessary for health? Or is it just part of a personal preference or societal pressure? Dr. James Hamblin, a preventive medicine and public health doctor, set out to explore this very question.

In a recent conversation with CNN’s Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta on the Chasing Life podcast, Dr. Hamblin shared his experience of questioning conventional hygiene practices. “You walk into any pharmacy, and next to cold and flu medications, there are aisles of shampoos and soaps. It just got me thinking: what is this all for?” he asked. “How much of it is necessary for health? How much is just personal preference? Am I wasting time and money?”

To answer these questions, Dr. Hamblin decided to take a bold step—he stopped showering in the traditional sense for about five years. But before you jump to conclusions, it wasn’t as extreme as it sounds. Dr. Hamblin documented this journey in his 2020 book Clean, The New Science of Skin, where he recounts his experiment and the science behind hygiene.

“I carefully wrote in my book that five years ago I stopped— and I did,” Dr. Hamblin explained. “But it was more about trial and error, figuring out what works and what doesn’t. I didn’t spend the entire five years without showering. Instead, I embraced a minimalist approach to cleanliness and experimented with different regimens.”

His approach wasn’t about neglecting personal hygiene altogether; it was about rethinking what’s truly necessary for healthy skin. Through his experiment, Dr. Hamblin aimed to challenge the common assumption that showering daily or using a wide array of personal care products is essential for good health.

As society continues to embrace an ever-growing range of beauty and hygiene products, Dr. Hamblin’s experiment raises important questions about the science of skin care and the real benefits of our daily routines. His journey serves as a reminder to critically examine how much of our personal care habits are shaped by cultural norms rather than genuine health needs.

Dr. Hamblin’s minimalist approach didn’t just challenge showering habits—it sparked an important conversation about what our skin truly needs to stay healthy and whether we’re overcomplicating our routines. His experiment suggests that perhaps less can sometimes be more when it comes to skin care.

In his exploration of cleanliness, Dr. Hamblin found that our skin, much like the rest of our body, benefits from a balanced and less-is-more approach. So, next time you reach for that extra bottle of lotion or soap, it might be worth asking yourself: Do I really need this? Or is it just a habit?

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As Dr. Vivek Murthy prepares to step down as the U.S. Surgeon General, his final message to the American people is clear: the nation’s health crisis is rooted in a lack of community, and the remedy lies in rebuilding strong, supportive connections. After serving two terms, Murthy’s assessment of the country’s well-being reveals a growing deficiency in human connection, which has contributed to widespread unhappiness and poor health outcomes.

In an essay published Tuesday, Dr. Murthy offers his “parting prescription” for healing the country—one that emphasizes the importance of community. “Community is a powerful source of life satisfaction and life expectancy,” he wrote. “It’s where we know each other, help each other, and find purpose in contributing to each other’s lives.” He believes that by fostering relationships, acts of service, and a sense of purpose, Americans can improve their mental and physical health.

The Power of Connection, Service, and Purpose

Murthy outlines three key elements essential to creating a fulfilling life: relationships, service to others, and a sense of purpose. He contrasts these values with modern concepts of success, which often prioritize wealth, fame, and power. “The triad of success is focused on the individual. The triad of fulfillment connects us with something bigger than the individual,” he explains. “The triad of success may earn us praise and possessions, but the triad of fulfillment gives us meaning and belonging.”

These elements, Murthy argues, are time-tested pathways to life satisfaction, in stark contrast to the hollow pursuits of individual achievement. Building community through connection, helping others, and finding a sense of purpose provides lasting fulfillment and strengthens personal well-being.

Tackling Social Isolation and Mental Health

Throughout his tenure, Dr. Murthy has addressed several public health crises, including addiction, youth mental health, and the negative impact of social media. He highlights how platforms designed to connect people have, ironically, contributed to loneliness. “Social media has turbocharged a culture of constant comparison that too often undermines our self-worth,” he wrote. Murthy explains that the quest for approval and validation through likes and followers is not only unfulfilling, but harmful.

Murthy’s reflections, though not scientific reports, cite multiple studies supporting the link between social connectivity and better health outcomes. He emphasizes that social disconnection increases the risk of heart disease, dementia, depression, and early death, with a significant portion of the population experiencing loneliness. “A third of adults and half of young people experience loneliness,” he noted.

On the flip side, a sense of purpose is proven to benefit mental and physical health. Studies show that individuals with a strong sense of purpose are at a lower risk for premature death, stroke, dementia, and depression. A high sense of purpose also fosters resilience in the face of stress, Murthy explains.

The Pandemic’s Role in Deepening Isolation

The COVID-19 pandemic only intensified the feelings of isolation that were already widespread in the U.S. But Murthy points out that the damage to American well-being goes beyond the pandemic. He writes that divisiveness within the country has eroded collective trust, making it harder for people to rise above common challenges together. “It is fueling not only illness and despair on an individual level, but also pessimism and distrust across society,” Murthy observes.

As he concludes his tenure, Murthy urges the nation to prioritize rebuilding a sense of community. “Choose community,” he implores, offering this as his final wish for the American people.

The Future of the Surgeon General’s Office

Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, a family physician and medical contributor to Fox News, has been nominated to replace Dr. Murthy as Surgeon General in the new administration under President Trump. Health experts have expressed mixed views on her appointment, particularly with the potential inclusion of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.—a prominent anti-vaccine activist—leading the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The coming administration may present challenges for those advocating for science-based public health policies.

As Murthy leaves his post, his message remains clear: to heal the nation, America must focus on strengthening its sense of community. This shift, he believes, can lead to a healthier, more fulfilled society for all.

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From orange juice to zinc lozenges, and chicken soup to garlic capsules, countless home remedies are suggested to help combat the common cold. But do any of these really work?

Catching a cold is a universal experience, with around 200 viruses causing it. However, for each virus, there seems to be just as many home remedies suggested to fight it off. So, do any of these remedies actually have scientific backing?

The Science Behind Home Remedies

Most home remedies are thought to work by boosting our immune system. When a virus enters the body, two systems work to defend us: the innate immune system attempts to expel the virus, while the adaptive system targets specific pathogens that the body has encountered before, creating memory cells to fight off future infections. This is why we usually only get chickenpox once, but the common cold, which constantly evolves, can strike us multiple times a year.

Our lifestyle and diet play a significant role in the strength of our immune system. It’s one of the reasons why remedies like vitamin-rich foods and supplements have been popularized, especially during flu seasons or even the COVID-19 pandemic. But which remedies are worth trying to ease cold symptoms or perhaps even shorten the duration of an illness?

Can Supplements Like Garlic Fight Off a Virus?

In most cases, a healthy diet prevents nutrient deficiencies that would impair the immune system. Therefore, adding “cold-fighting” foods to an already balanced diet may not have a noticeable effect, explains Charles Bangham, head of the Division of Infectious Diseases at Imperial College London.

“Only if you’re deficient in a key nutrient like vitamin C, zinc, or iron will supplementation really make a difference,” says Bangham. “For those already eating a balanced diet, adding more won’t boost immunity.”

While there’s no concrete evidence that chicken soup can fight off a cold, some supplements show promise. A study conducted during the winters of 2016 and 2017 found that taking a multivitamin with vitamins A, D, C, E, B6, B12, zinc, and other minerals reduced the frequency and severity of cold symptoms like a runny nose and cough.

Garlic is one popular home remedy with some supporting research. A small study found that healthy adults who took daily garlic supplements for 12 weeks experienced fewer colds compared to a placebo group. The garlic group contracted only 24 colds, while the placebo group had 65.

Does Vitamin C Help with Colds?

Vitamin C is another common go-to for cold sufferers, but does it actually help? According to a 2023 review, vitamin C supplements can significantly reduce the severity of mild cold symptoms (like a sore throat or runny nose) by about 15%. The review also found that vitamin C has a stronger effect on more severe cold symptoms.

However, the benefit of consuming vitamin C through food, such as orange juice, is less clear. While a small bottle of fresh orange juice contains around 72mg of vitamin C—more than the daily recommended minimum of 40mg—it’s still not as effective as high-dose vitamin C supplements, says Harri Hemilä, a researcher at the University of Helsinki.

Does Zinc Help with Colds?

Zinc is another supplement widely believed to shorten cold duration. A review of studies found that zinc acetate lozenges (80-92mg) can reduce the duration of nasal congestion and sneezing by about a third. However, researchers note that the timing of zinc intake is critical: it must be taken within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms to be effective.

Despite this, a 2020 trial showed mixed results. After taking zinc lozenges for five days, participants who continued for an additional 10 days didn’t recover faster than those who took a placebo. This suggests that the duration and dosage of zinc treatment need further exploration.

Interestingly, zinc lozenges are far more effective than regular zinc tablets or food sources. This is because lozenges dissolve slowly in the mouth, where zinc works locally, unlike zinc from food or tablets, which are absorbed elsewhere in the body.

The Power of Placebo

One complication in studying cold remedies is the placebo effect. Many home remedies, including garlic supplements or even chicken soup, may feel effective simply because of belief in their healing power. The placebo effect can significantly alleviate symptoms, such as pain or a runny nose, even when the treatment has no active ingredients.

Studies on herbal remedies like echinacea have found that people who believe in the remedy’s benefits experience milder colds than those who do not. The same goes for milk and mucus production—while research has debunked the myth that milk worsens mucus, people who believe this may report more symptoms.

Trust and Comfort: The Emotional Boost

Felicity Bishop, a health psychology expert at the University of Southampton, explains that the power of home remedies often comes from the trust we place in those offering them. Whether it’s parents offering chicken soup or a friend suggesting garlic, the emotional comfort and belief in a remedy can help us feel better—even if it’s just a placebo effect at play.

Sarah Schenker, a dietitian, adds that the comfort of foods like chicken soup can provide emotional relief, even if they don’t directly target the cold virus.

Genetic Factors and Immunity

Ultimately, our individual genetics play a major role in how we respond to illnesses. Some people are genetically predisposed to experience more severe symptoms, while others may be less affected. For the majority of healthy individuals, home remedies (whether they’re effective or placebo-based) may offer some comfort, but true immunity relies more on genetics and overall health.

Conclusion

While remedies like garlic, zinc, and vitamin C supplements may offer some benefits in reducing the severity or duration of cold symptoms, much of the relief we experience may come from the placebo effect or the comfort of familiar traditions, like chicken soup. When it comes to preventing colds or fighting them off, the most effective approach is a balanced diet, good hygiene, and possibly some supplements—though individual genetic factors are just as important in determining how we handle colds.

For now, while there’s no magic cure, relying on trusted remedies—whether backed by science or not—may still help us get through the common cold a little more comfortably.

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The post Do Home Remedies Really Help Fight Off a Cold? appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

Air pollution is a hidden danger affecting millions of lives every year. Though often invisible, its harmful effects are far-reaching, especially for the lungs—the first organs exposed to pollutants. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with pre-existing lung conditions, are at higher risk.

How Air Pollution Affects Your Health

Air pollution impacts people differently based on factors like age, overall health, lung capacity, lifestyle, and the duration of exposure to polluted environments. One of the most harmful components of polluted air is PM 2.5, tiny particles released from vehicle emissions, industrial processes, and wildfires. These microscopic particles can penetrate deep into the lungs, increasing the risk of serious health problems like lung cancer, asthma, and chronic respiratory diseases.

Common Symptoms of Air Pollution Exposure

• Nasal congestion
• Persistent coughing
• Breathlessness
• Worsening of pre-existing conditions like asthma

Dr. Prabhu Prasad, N.C., Head of Interventional Pulmonology at Manipal Hospital, Goa, emphasizes the need to recognize these symptoms early and take proactive measures to protect respiratory health.

Tips to Protect Your Lungs from Air Pollution

1. Stay Informed: Keep track of air quality levels in your area through apps or weather reports. Avoid outdoor activities during high pollution days.
2. Use Masks: Wear an N95 mask when stepping out, especially during smoggy conditions or wildfire seasons.
3. Create a Safe Indoor Environment: Use air purifiers and keep windows closed when pollution levels are high.
4. Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet rich in antioxidants can help combat the oxidative stress caused by pollutants.
5. Plant Indoor Greens: Certain houseplants, like peace lilies and spider plants, can improve indoor air quality.
6. Seek Medical Advice: Consult a healthcare professional if you experience persistent respiratory issues.

Air pollution is a serious challenge, but with the right steps, you can protect your lungs and overall health. Prioritize clean air and take active measures to minimize exposure for yourself and your loved ones.

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The post Simple Steps to Improve Respiratory Health in Polluted Environments appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.