Bird flu FAQ: What is avian influenza? How is it transmitted to humans? What are the symptoms? Are there effective treatments and vaccines? Will H5N1 become the next viral pandemic?

Mar 28, 2023 14:14 pm UTC| Health

Avian influenza (bird flu) is a highly contagious viral infection that affects wild and domestic birds worldwide. It has recently gained notoriety for its devastating impact on the commercial poultry sector and as an...

What causes hiccups and how can you get rid of them?

Mar 28, 2023 14:14 pm UTC| Health

We all get hiccups from time to time, and sometimes they just wont seem to go away. Hiccups are involuntary contractions of the diaphragm the muscle separating your chest from your abdomen, which plays a key role in...

What is a paraben and why are so many products advertised as 'paraben-free'?

Mar 28, 2023 14:10 pm UTC| Health

You might have noticed many skin and haircare products are advertised as paraben-free, or come across online influencers warning parabens are terrible for your health. But what is a paraben? And could a minor ingredient...

FDA to permit use of salt substitutes in efforts to reduce sodium intake

Mar 27, 2023 22:26 pm UTC| Health Economy Business

The US FDA has proposed changes to the standards of identity (SOI) for foods to permit the use of salt substitutes. Product developers would now have the flexibility to work with ingredients that are regulated by the...

California may ban food additives deemed safe by FDA

Mar 27, 2023 22:16 pm UTC| Health Economy Business

The California legislature is seeking to ban five additives frequently found in foods. Red Dye No. 3, titanium dioxide, potassium bromate, brominated vegetable oil, and propylparaben, all currently banned in the European...

S. Korea’s sleep-inducing lettuce to be grown in Australia

Mar 15, 2023 23:17 pm UTC| Life Health Science Economy Business

A South Korean lettuce variety called heukharang or black harang, which serves as a natural treatment for insomnia is set for cultivation in Australia. Jeollanamdo Agricultural Research Extension Services (JARES)...

Here's what happens in your brain when you're trying to make or break a habit

Mar 15, 2023 15:43 pm UTC| Health

Did you set a New Years resolution to kick a bad habit, only to find yourself falling back into old patterns? Youre not alone. In fact, research suggests up to 40% of our daily actions are habits automatic routines we do...