Is This Water Trick The Key To Preventing Coughs And Colds?

Posted on 20/09/2025 by Boris Clair

If you’re trying desperately hard to keep the nasty bugs at bay – especially now everyone’s back at work and school, and the mercury is dropping – you’ll want to know about a really simple, not to mention free, hack medical experts (and teachers) swear by.

The health practice is common in Japan – and appears to prevent upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs).

So, what is it?

Gargling water in the throat a handful of times a day could play a part in helping prevent nasty respiratory infections.

Obviously it’s not foolproof, but one study found people who gargled water at least three times a day were roughly 36% less likely to develop URTIs than those who didn’t.

Even compared to participants who gargled an iodine solution, the group gargling water seemed to come down with less illness.

The researchers concluded: “Simple water gargling was effective to prevent URTIs among healthy people. This virtually cost-free modality would appreciably benefit the general population.”

One ICU pharmacist shared the study’s findings on Instagram recently, noting it’s the “the easiest cold prevention hack you’re not doing”.

He said “sometimes the simplest habits are the most powerful” and continued: “A few seconds at the sink, a couple times a day, and it might help you stay healthier when everyone else is sniffling.”

And it seems to work among those who’ve tried it. A school teacher said they used to get three or four respiratory infections a year. “Now I get 0-1 because I gargle plain water twice daily, morning and night. It really works!” they added.

Another said gargling warm salt water at the onset of a tickling throat tends to help them reduce coughing when they have a cold, too.

A study from the University of Edinburgh found using a simple sea salt water solution for gargling and also nasal irrigation helped to reduce symptoms of a cold, as well as how long people were sick for.

Another commenter on the pharmacist’s post said: “As soon as I feel that little twinge for a sore throat – I gargle warm salt water and eat more vitamin C foods. I worked in 24 different schools last year with special ed students and had ONE cold.”

Superintendent pharmacist for Chemist4U, Ian Budd, previously told HuffPost UK he recommends gargling with salt water to reduce throat irritation and discomfort.

These ‘Healthy’ Habits Could Be Staining Your Teeth More Than Coffee

Posted on 16/09/2025 by Boris Clair

Most of us know that coffee, wine, and tea can turn your pearly whites a little darker, though some people naturally have yellower teeth thanks to the thickness of their dentin and enamel.

Smoking causes staining, too, thanks to nicotine and tar settling on your enamel.

But according to Dr Edoardo Felici, a cosmetic dentist at Apa Aesthetic Clinic, sometimes “healthy” habits can lead to less-bright smiles.

“The patients I see are often shocked when I tell them it isn’t their coffee that’s doing the most staining,” he told us.

Acidic drinks weaken your enamel

When you drink acidic beverages, your enamel softens temporarily.

So, if you consume colourful foods and drinks (like turmeric and matcha) while your teeth are in this more vulnerable state, the dentist shared that this leaves you at a higher risk of staining.

“It’s often smoothies, juices and even kombucha that cause bigger issues,” Dr Fellici said.

“These drinks, while part of many wellness routines, are high in natural sugars and acids that can soften enamel, making teeth more prone to discolouration.”

Green juices, sparkling water, and apple cider vinegar all soften your teeth for a while.

If these don’t have pigmented ingredients of their own, try not to follow them with foods like berries – that colour is likely to stick longer on your gnashers.

How can I prevent staining from “healthy” drinks?

Dr Felici advised using a straw to drink acidic and/or colourful drinks and rinsing your mouth with water straight after consumption to eliminate the acids.

And because your enamel is also more exposed following brushing, the dentist said we should all be waiting for at least half an hour after our morning scrub before eating and drinking.

“Teeth are often the first thing people notice, so it’s frustrating when patients are following what they believe are healthy habits, yet still struggle with stains,” Dr Felici ended.

“Wellness should work with your smile, not against it – with a few tweaks, you can keep both your health goals and your teeth in great shape.”

I Run An Assessment Clinic – Here Are 7 Signs Of Autism To Be Aware Of In Children

Posted on 14/09/2025 by Boris Clair

It’s estimated that one in 100 children in the UK is autistic – yet diagnosis for can often be lengthy and complicated.

Swansea University research found it takes, on average, six years longer to diagnose autism in girls than boys.

The study, which involved 400 people, found three-quarters (75%) of boys received a diagnosis before the age of 10 compared to half (50%) of girls.

While the average age of diagnosis was between four and six for boys, in girls it was between 10 and 12 years old, the BBC reported.

Early diagnosis is key to being able to support a child’s development and wellbeing – and as part of this, parents can be aware of the signs to look out for in children so they can begin to seek diagnosis.

While every child is unique, there are common indicators parents can be mindful of, ranging from physical patterns like differences in eye contact and speech, to cognitive preferences like routines and special interests.

Here, Dr Bijal Chheda, consultant psychologist and founder of Nos Curare, a private clinic specialising in neurodiverse care, has shared seven early signs of autism for parents to know.

1. Limited eye contact

“One of the earliest and most noticeable signs of autism in young children is inconsistent eye contact,” the psychologist told HuffPost UK.

You might notice your child avoids directly looking at others’ faces – including yours. They might sometimes glance briefly during interactions, but with minimal reactions.

The expert stressed this “shouldn’t be taken as rudeness or lack of affection”.

“This habit reflects how children with autism tend to process social cues, finding it difficult or even draining to participate in everyday conversations,” she said.

“By limiting eye contact, they allow themselves to focus on processing their surroundings in a way that feels less intimidating and more manageable.”

If you’ve noticed this in your child, it might help to provide them with gentle encouragement and low-pressure one-on-one sessions to help them become more comfortable with social engagement.

2. Delayed speech development

Language delays are common early indicators of autism, said Dr Chheda.

“Some children may not start saying their first recognisable words until around 12-18 months, which is much later than the typical developmental range,” she noted.

“Meanwhile, others may have a limited vocabulary or struggle with forming sentences well into adolescence.”

The expert noted delays can occur because children with autism “often process language in a more analytical way, making it harder for them to grasp context”.

As a result, they may find it harder to imitate sounds or follow basic conversational patterns, she suggested.

“However, autistic children are highly perceptive, and these delays usually coexist with strong non-verbal skills, such as pointing or using sounds to express their needs,” she said.

3. Repetitive movements

Some children might display patterned behaviours such as spinning, rocking, or looping the same phrases – these are signs of autism known as ‘stimming’.

“These rhythmic movements and sounds often serve as self-soothing mechanisms that regulate emotions and process stimuli,” said the psychologist.

″‘Stimming’ provides autistic children with predictable stimulation, reducing anxiety or helping the child cope with overwhelming situations.

“While sporadic repetition is normal in most children, as this can be a way to practice new skills or explore their immediate surroundings, intense patterns may indicate a cognitive difference,” she said.

As interrupting these habits may lead to instant emotional outbursts or sudden aggression, her advice is to provide safe spaces for stimming, “where children can soothe themselves and redirect their focus, without discouraging the behaviour entirely”.

4. Lack of social engagement

Children on the autism spectrum may avoid group play, not respond to their name, or show minimal interest in forming meaningful connections with others, said the expert.

“While not intentional, sensory sensitivities like taking part in small talk may disrupt their preference for predictability,” she said.

“This may trigger the practice of ‘masking’ wherein they suppress autistic traits (like stimming, limited eye contact, or repetitive speech) and mimic neurotypical behaviours to fit in.”

Children can find it really hard to socialise – and being forced to do so can trigger anxiety in some – so Dr Chheda advises starting by encouraging small interactions in familiar settings while respecting their need for breaks and letting them express themselves naturally, so they don’t feel the need to mask.

5. Sensitivity to sound or touch

Perhaps one of the more well-known signs of autism is a heightened sensitivity to stimuli. “These responses are linked to how their nervous system interprets body signals, including physical or emotional reactions to certain noises, lighting, or textures,” said Dr Chheda.

“For example, some children with hypersensitivity may cover their ears in response to common sounds like tapping, vacuum cleaners, or clinking utensils.

“On the other hand, hyposensitive or under-responsive children may not feel certain sensations as strongly, usually seeking more intense sensory input by tapping surfaces or holding tightly onto objects like their favourite stuffed animals.”

If you notice this in your child, you can help them by creating calm environments that offer sensory breaks, with easy access to safe items that satisfy your child’s needs.

“When they are ready, gradually introduce new sensations at a comfortable pace with the guidance of a qualified professional,” added the expert.

6. Resistance to change

Plenty of us are creatures of habit and don’t particularly love change, but a strong preference for predictability is common among children with autism. You might notice that sudden shifts in daily schedules, including meals and bedtimes, can trigger distress and even lead to meltdowns.

“When children with autism experience frequent disruptions to their routines, it can contribute to feelings of unease, leading to demotivation and low mood,” said the psychologist.

Her advice is: instead of demanding immediate changes, introduce small adjustments gradually and provide visual schedules to help children adapt.

“Accommodating their need for structure, such as giving advanced notice of upcoming changes, can help children prepare and feel more secure, making transitions easier,” she added.

7. Special interests

“Children with autism often develop deep interests in specific topics or activities called ‘hyperfixations’,” added Chheda. “These hobbies may seem unusual in intensity or subject matter compared to their peers, leading to challenges in group or classroom settings.”

The psychologist pointed out that many parents worry that this extreme interest in a specific area could limit social development.

But “we must highlight that these special interests can actually act as leverage for learning, skill-building, and connecting with others who share similar passions,” she said.

Her advice is to encourage exploration of these niche interests in safe and structured ways. “You can enroll them in inclusive special needs programs or incorporate these fixations into educational activities, using them as a bridge to develop any delays in communication and problem-solving skills,” she added.

I Have A Condition Called Polymorphic Light Eruption. This Is How I Get Through The Summer Months

Posted on 13/09/2025 by Boris Clair

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For most people, summer means sunbathing, tans and getting that sunkissed look after two weeks in Europe.

But for me, the summer months come with a yearly dread, constantly checking ultraviolet (UV) levels and hiding indoors — because it wreaks havoc on my skin.

I have a condition called polymorphic light eruption, also known as PLE. This is different to heat rashes or sunburns in that I am more sensitive to higher UV levels than most people. Unless I take extra steps to look after the sun exposed skin on my hands, forearms, face or even feet, the sunny and clear skies lead to angry, burning and itchy rashes.

PLE as a condition is not as well known in the general public. For years, I had no idea what was going on with my skin – I used to think I was the unlucky person who got heat rashes and sunburns at the same time every year. It was only a few years ago, when I coincidentally brought up the condition with my GP, did I finally get a name for my yearly suffering. When I searched it up on Google, I remember reading a few news articles calling it a ‘vampire skin condition’ which left me feeling rather unnerved. But it turned out that as long as I prepared for high UV days in advance I could still go out in the sun to some extent.

The actual cause behind PLE is still somewhat unclear, but experts say it’s to do with the body’s heightened immune response to UV light. According to Dr Derrick Phillips, Consultant Dermatologist and official spokesperson for the British Skin Foundation, PLE is thought to be an “over-reaction of the immune system in the skin.”

As someone with a history of hypersensitivities and allergies, this makes sense. He told HuffPost UK: “When the skin is exposed to UV light, an unknown substance or antigen is thought to be produced. In people with PLE, the immune system mistakenly sees this as harmful and mounts an inflammatory response, which leads to the rash.”

Dr Philips added that there seems to be a “genetic component” to PLE, and that up to “46 per cent of people with PLE report a family history.

So, what happens to me? During the summer, my life revolves around the Weather app. I start my day by looking at the temperature, and in particular, UV levels. This is because PLE can also affect me in overcast and cloudy conditions too, as UV light can penetrate through clouds and window glass.

I’ve had unexpected flare-ups despite sitting indoors, all because I spent a few hours sitting near a sunny window. I also react intensely to heat, which leads to flushed skin and a terrible, prickling sensation, followed by the bothersome, itchy rash. It means that summer months can be hard, especially if I’m out in the sun a lot. I avoid going away over summer, choosing to vacation in the autumn or winter months. A few years ago, I went to Barcelona in August and wasn’t as careful with my skin. I was left with angry, itchy rashes on my hands and forearms which put a damper on my holiday plans.

If I can get to the rash before it gets to me, then I’m usually protected. This is done by staying in shade and becoming best friends with suncream. I’ve tried numerous sun creams on the market to find the one that works for me, and it comes down to two products I constantly keep stocked at home.

For my face, the La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Ultra-Light Invisible Fluid SPF50+ (Boots, £16) works an absolute treat. It’s extremely lightweight yet effective and keeps my skin protected and hydrated. It’s a great option to use on the go too, and works well under make-up.

For the rest of my body, I swear by Garnier Ambre Solaire SPF 50+ Hydra 24 Hour Hydrating Suncream, which my mum introduced to me when I was little and I still buy it today. It’s one of the most effective suncreams out there, and for its price, (LOOKFANTASTIC, £6.50) it’s an absolute steal. It is a thicker, heavier formulation and takes time to fully absorb in my skin. However, if I go out with this suncream on, I won’t have a single rash anywhere at all.

If I’m unlucky enough to end up with those raised, itchy bumps on my hands or face after going outside, then I know a rash is oncoming. For that, it’s all about making sure I try my hardest not to itch my skin, and keep it shaded, cooled and hydrated. When it gets really bad, I use an over-the-counter topical steroid such as Hydrocortisone 1% to help with the pain and inflammation. To maintain that, I turn to more cooling and calming creams.

Everyone is different, but Sudocrem Antiseptic Healing Cream (Boots, £8) works a treat, and I make sure to regularly use Aveeno’s skin RELIEF moisturising lotion for everyday use (Boots, £6.99). The rest of my skincare routine typically stays the same with the majority of my products being hydrating, calming and soothing, such as BYOMA’s Hydrating Soothing Milky Toner (Sephora UK, £11.99) and The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid Serum (Boots, £7.04).

Sometimes, the rashes can leave me with hyperpigmentation, which is more common in people with brown skin. Dealing with that takes weeks, but the TOPICALS Brightening and Clearing Serum always works well (Sephora UK, £25).

Skincare experts also stress the importance of using SPF50+ products. Dr Hana Patel, from Superdrug Online Doctor, told HuffPost UK that sun cream is “non-negotiable.” for those with PLE She said: “Daily SPF is non-negotiable: Choose a broad-spectrum, high-SPF (30–50) sunscreen with photostable filters (look for ingredients like Tinosorb, Mexoryl SX/XL, or zinc oxide). Apply generously and reapply every 2 hours, especially if sweating or swimming.”

There are other treatments available for more severe PLE which are available through specialist services. Dr Derrick Phillips told HuffPost UK about the options for more “persistent” cases. He said: “A course of phototherapy in spring, which is sometimes called “skin hardening”, can help the skin gradually build tolerance to sunlight ahead of summer.

“Some people may also benefit from taking Polypodium leucotomos extract, a natural antioxidant supplement derived from a tropical fern, which has been shown to provide a degree of internal protection against UV-induced skin damage.”

It’s always important to get advice from a healthcare professional, and see what works for you. I haven’t tried these therapies yet as I’m able to manage my condition myself, but could always consider it in the future.

I Spent Years Nearly Drinking Myself To Death. Then A Stranger Sent Me A Photo That Made Me Turn My Life Around

Posted on 13/09/2025 by Boris Clair

Four years ago, I woke up in an ICU in Thailand. My liver was failing. I was drinking three bottles of wine a day, chasing it with whiskey, and swallowing handfuls of Valium. I wasn’t trying to numb the pain anymore – I was trying to kill myself. I just didn’t have the guts to do it all at once.

Moving to Thailand was supposed to be my big fix. Back in Ireland, I’d built and sold a successful media company with 40 staff members across three cities. On paper, I was doing well.

In real life, I was a wreck. I’d been a functioning alcoholic for years, hiding behind client meetings, late nights, and a culture where drinking hard was seen as normal. I was burned out, lost, and clinging to the hope that sunshine and distance might change something.

It didn’t.

In fact, Thailand made it worse. The freedom, the quiet, the time – it gave my addiction space to grow. With no structure around me, I lost the plot completely. I drank until I blacked out, every day, for months. I was surrounded by beaches and blue skies, but I wanted to disappear.

The ICU stint scared me straight. It was rock bottom. I left the hospital and never touched a drink again. I woke up and realised I had two options: keep going and die, or stop and face everything I’d been running from. That was the day I quit. I haven’t had a drink since.

But getting sober was just the start. I needed something bigger to hold onto. Something that gave the days shape.

That’s when the dogs came in.

At first, it was just a couple of strays I saw around the island. They were sick, mangy, limping. I left out some food. The next day, more showed up. Then more. Before I knew it, I was feeding dozens – then hundreds. The need was overwhelming. Thailand has millions of street dogs, and most of them are barely surviving.

Nobody else seemed to be doing much. So I figured maybe I could.

What started as something to keep me busy became the centre of my life. Today, I run a sanctuary called Happy Doggo. We feed more than 1,200 dogs every day. We rescue the ones that have been hit by cars, dumped, abused, and left to die. We also fund the sterilisation of thousands a month, which helps stop the suffering before it starts.

These dogs have been through the worst, but they still want to trust. They still look at you with hope. That guts me every time.

One dog in particular changed everything.

Her name is Tina.

I got a WhatsApp message one day – a photo from someone I didn’t know. It showed a dog chained under a shack up in the mountains. She was skin and bones, her fur was matted, and she was lying in her own filth. Her eyes were what really got me: broken, but still alert. I’ve seen a lot of rough cases, but this one hit different.

I called Rod, my Aussie mate who helps with rescues, and we drove up into the hills. When we found her, she didn’t move much. Her chain was short, the ground was hard, and her body looked like it had given up. But when I reached out, she leaned into my hand. No fear. No flinching. Just surrender.

The locals weren’t fussed. They said she was old, or maybe hit by a car. They didn’t argue when I asked to take her.

The author with rescue puppies in Thailand in 2023.

The vet didn’t sugarcoat it. Tina was riddled with parasites, she was anaemic, and her kidneys weren’t great. But the shocker was she was a golden retriever. You don’t see many of those on the streets here. The vet reckoned she’d been used for breeding, over and over, and then dumped when she couldn’t deliver any more litters. Used, then thrown away.

That night, I wanted to give Tina something good. A proper meal. Real food. Something she hadn’t had in a long time.

It nearly killed her.

At the time, I didn’t know that starving dogs can’t handle big meals right away. Within an hour, her stomach ballooned. She started struggling to breathe. I freaked out. My colleague Valeria knew what it was – bloat – a deadly condition where the stomach fills with gas and can twist. If it’s not treated fast, they will die.

We didn’t have a vet on hand. It was just us, a needle, and a lot of panic. Valeria stuck the needle in and released the gas. It hissed out like a pressure cooker, and I thought, maybe, just maybe, we’d bought her a bit more time.

That night, I sat beside Tina listening to her breathe. I thought about the times I nearly died – all the nights I’d wanted it to end – and here I was, doing everything I could to keep this broken little dog alive.

Over the next few days, Tina stayed close. She slept in my bed. Ate tiny meals. Slowly, her fur started growing back. Her eyes softened. She wagged her tail. One day, after a bath, a tuft of hair stuck up like something out of an ’80s music video. I looked at her and thought, You’re Tina Turner.

That’s how she got her name.

The author with Tina in Thailand in 2023.

Tina became the face of Happy Doggo. People connected with her story – and I think it’s because we all love a comeback. I certainly do.

She reminded me of myself. Shackled. Exhausted. Written off. But still here. Still trying.

Before all this, I thought success meant money, nice things, a big exit. I had those, and I was miserable. Now, I go to sleep knowing I’ve helped someone survive another day – even if that someone is covered in fleas and chewing my flip-flop. I’ve never felt more grounded.

Sobriety gave me my life back. But the dogs gave me a reason to live it.

People ask why I do this – why I spend my days scooping poop, chasing donations, running around after sick animals. The answer’s simple: because someone has to. And because, somewhere along the way, they saved me, too.

I wrote a book about Tina – and about all of this. It’s called Tina: The Dog Who Changed the World. It’s her story, but it’s mine as well. A story about getting knocked down, and choosing to get up again. About how the smallest life can give you the biggest reason to keep going.

There are 500 million street dogs in the world. I’ve made it my mission to save half of them. Sounds mad, I know. But I believe in impossible things now.

I believe a dog can save a man’s life. And I believe Tina wasn’t just a dog. She was the start of everything.

The author holding the first book he published, "Hope: How Street Dogs Taught Me the Meaning of Life."

Niall Harbison is an author, former tech entrepreneur, and street dog rescuer based in Thailand. A recovered alcoholic, he now runs Happy Doggo, a nonprofit that feeds and cares for more than 1,000 street dogs every day. His memoir, “Hope: How Street Dogs Taught Me the Meaning of Life,” became a Sunday Times bestseller, and his latest book, “Tina: The Dog Who Changed the World,” which appeared on the New York Times best-sellers list in 2025, honors the rescue dog who started it all. Follow his journey at happydoggo.com, on Instagram (@niall.harbison and @wearehappydoggo), or on YouTube at http://youtube.com/@wearehappydoggo.

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I Gave Up Sleep Tracking For A Week, And I’ve Never Felt More Rested

Posted on 07/09/2025 by Boris Clair

Speaking to HuffPost UK previously, sleep expert Dr Nerina Ramlakhan from Oak Tree Mobility told us that “there’s a form of insomnia that has risen… called ‘orthosomia’, a term for the obsession with getting a good night’s sleep.”

It might affect type-A people and perfectionists more than others, she suggested, and could paradoxically make existing sleep problems worse.

She added, “Alongside the strategies and supplements for getting better sleep that are flooding the market, trackers have joined the sleep bandwagon. Trackers can (up to a point) be helpful, but I think they’re driving an unhelpful obsession.”

I have to confess that even though I know the importance of “clock blocking” and avoiding as much worry as I can at night, I’ve become obsessed with my own smart watch.

But after a little bit of skin irritation and frankly forgetting to put it back on my wrist after a previous charge, I accidentally ended up following Dr Ramalkhan’s advice: I haven’t been wearing the fitness tracker that logs my sleep for a week.

And honestly, I’ve already been impressed by how much more rested I feel.

Why might sleep tracking make sleep worse?

If trackers help you, that’s all the evidence you need to keep using them.

But as sleep expert Kathryn Pinkham, founder of The Insomnia Clinic, told Which?, they might make those with existing poor sleep (like me) panic more about their poor “performance”.

This stress forms a vicious cycle, ironically keeping worriers up at night.

This happened to me most nights. I would anxiously tell my partner I’d only had four to six hours last night, and spend the rest of the day battling fatigue and panic in equal, exhausting turns.

I’d avoid naps for fear of ruining my sleep cycle, then feel too awake, and too anxious at being awake, to fall asleep at night.

But by day two of not using a tracker, I noticed I wasn’t thinking about my sleep as much – since then, I’ve woken up far more refreshed.

This included nights I think my watch would have told me constituted a “bad” sleep. The less I knew about the supposed quality of my sleep – which some say trackers may not measure as accurately as experts like – the better I felt.

Perhaps it might be as Dr Ramlahkhan said: “With sleep trackers, unless you’re having your data measured in a lab, you need to take it all with a pinch of salt.

“Your tracker may say you didn’t get good sleep, but maybe you feel great. Check in with yourself before you check your data.”

How can I tell if I should give up sleep tracking?

Again, everyone’s different. But, per Dr Ramlahkhan, “An important thing is not to get too obsessed with the numbers, and take a break from tracking if you find yourself in that position.”

She also said many of us might be looking at the data from trackers with overly short sight, thereby accidentally misunderstanding their insights.

“Once you’ve been wearing it for a while (at least 6 months to a year), only then can you start to look at the trends,” she revealed.

“For example, if you change some elements of your life such as cutting back on caffeine, exercising more, and drinking less alcohol, then it can be helpful to see this reflected on the tracker.”

But if you think your tracker might be harming your sleep more than it helps, and if the data causes you more worry than curiosity, it might be time to put yours to bed.

5 Salmon Myths Seafood Experts Wish Everyone Would Stop Believing

Posted on 31/08/2025 by Boris Clair

Seafood consumption in the US is at an all-time high, with salmon being the most consumed fish, according to the US Department of Agriculture. It’s easy to see why salmon is so popular: A staple of the Mediterranean diet, it’s packed with nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids (which are good for your heart, brain and skin), protein and vitamin D.

Despite its popularity, seafood experts we talked to say that there are still some common misconceptions about salmon that simply aren’t true. Here, grocery store seafood buyers, as well as seafood science professors, dispel the most popular myths about salmon and give their tips on what to keep in mind when you’re shopping.

Myth #1: Fresh is better than frozen

When it comes to buying salmon, the first decision you have to make is whether you’re heading to the seafood counter or the frozen section. Jason Hedlund, the principal category merchant of seafood procurement at Whole Foods Market, shared that fresh salmon isn’t more nutrient-dense — or even necessarily tastier — than frozen salmon.

If you’re going to eat your salmon relatively quickly (within the next two days), Hedlund says fresh salmon is a good bet. But if you want salmon to keep on hand and you’re not sure when you’re going to eat it, go for frozen. He added that many people don’t realize that salmon is frozen mere hours after being caught, which locks in all the nutrient density and flavour.

Mark Lang, a food marketing professor at the University of Tampa who is passionate about aquaculture, said this too. “Salmon is frozen so quickly [after being caught] that it may be the freshest option to eat,” he told HuffPost, adding that it’s frozen right at the source where it’s caught.

If you want to eat salmon more often because of its health benefits, Lang recommends buying it frozen so you can thaw it the day before you’re ready to cook it.

Myth #2: Farm-raised salmon isn’t as good as wild-caught

Every seafood expert we talked to said that farm-raised salmon tends to get a bad rap, and it’s completely unwarranted. “Without responsible farming methods, there wouldn’t be enough salmon to meet the demands of consumers,” said Mark LaMonaco, the seafood category merchant at Wegmans Food Markets.

“Without farmed salmon, we wouldn’t have enough to feed the world. Just like we farm chicken, beef and pork, salmon farming is necessary to support global demand and helps protect wild populations from overfishing,” added Doug Varanai, the senior manager of seafood at Sprouts Farmers Market.

Experts say that the nutrient density of farmed salmon and wild-caught salmon is similar, but they do say there is a slight difference in taste.

Lang explained that the stigma surrounding farmed salmon goes back to the ’70s, when there were few regulations around salmon-farming practices, which led to salmon being farmed in dirty, overcrowded water. But he emphasised that times have changed.

“Most grocery retailers rely on certification companies with auditors on the ground inspecting the fish farms. They do inspections, test the water and test the fish. If you break the rules, you lose your certification,” Lang explained. If you want to educate yourself on the conditions of farmed salmon available at your preferred grocery retailer, Lang recommends searching for the regulations they follow on their website. (Here’s where you can find the details on farmed fish practices for Whole Foods, Sprouts and Wegmans.)

All of the experts say that the nutrient density of farmed salmon and wild-caught salmon is similar, but they do say there is a slight difference in taste. “Wild salmon often has a firmer texture, leaner flesh and a more intense, ‘oceanic flavor’ due to natural diets. Farmed salmon tends to be milder, fattier and softer in texture, with flavour influenced by feed formulations,” said Alexander Chouljenko, an assistant professor of seafood science at North Carolina State University. “Some people prefer the richness of farmed; others prefer the complexity of wild. Blind taste tests show people’s preferences can be split, often depending on cooking method and seasoning,” he added.

Myth #3: Farmed salmon is full of antibiotics

If you’ve been avoiding farmed salmon because you believe it’s full of antibiotics, the experts say you can rest assured that it isn’t something you need to obsess over. “In the US, Canada, Norway and many well-regulated countries, antibiotics are rarely used, and if they are, they are under strict veterinary oversight with mandatory withdrawal periods before harvest,” Chouljenko said.

That said, Chouljenko explained that in some countries with weaker regulations, overusing antibiotics in farmed fish has been documented, raising both health and environmental concerns. To avoid this, he recommends looking for salmon labeled with certifications like ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) or BAP (Best Aquaculture Practices).

Again, this is also where checking out the standard of your preferred retailer comes in handy. “At Sprouts, all the farm-raised fish in our responsibly sourced program are BAP 3-star or higher certified, which ensures they are raised without the routine use of antibiotics. While antibiotics may be used in some unregulated countries, we prioritise sourcing from certified farms to ensure safety, quality and sustainability,” Varanai told HuffPost.

Myth #4: Salmon is high in mercury

PSA: Salmon is not high in mercury and is safe to eat regularly. “The health benefits of eating salmon far outweigh any concerns about mercury,” Varanai said. He explained that its short lifespan and position low on the food chain means it doesn’t accumulate much mercury, making it a healthy and safe choice for most people, including children and pregnant women.

“When we think about fish with high mercury levels, we have to understand how mercury accumulates in seafood. There are two major contributing factors: time and diet,” LaMonaco told HuffPost. He explained that the higher up a fish is on the food chain, the more mercury it may contain because of the mercury found in its diet. Similarly, he said that the longer a fish lives, the more it eats over its lifetime and could raise the overall levels. “From beginning to end, a salmon’s life cycle is typically three to five years and isn’t enough time to accumulate levels of mercury that should be a cause for concern,” LaMonaco said.

Myth #5: Salmon’s colour can tell you how fresh it is

According to the experts, while a salmon’s colour is important, a vibrant colour isn’t always an indicator of freshness. “Some salmon, especially farmed, get colour from astaxanthin in feed, so vibrant colour doesn’t automatically mean fresher or less fresh,” Choujenko said. LaMonaco explained that astaxanthin is the dietary supplement added to the feed for farmed fish, which can also be found in wild salmon’s natural diet, typically found in krill and other sources. “Astaxanthin is also a popular supplement for humans, often used as an antioxidant with various potential benefits,” he added.

When buying fresh salmon, Choujenko recommends checking the smell (it should be mild, not fishy), texture (firm, not mushy) and appearance (moist, not dry or discoloured with unusual spots, dull patches, browning or gray areas).

If the head is still on the salmon, Lang recommends checking out the eyes. “They should be clear. That means it hasn’t been out of the water for very long. If the eyes are cloudy, it’s been in the food supply chain for a while,” he said.

With these myths dispelled, you can shop for salmon confidently, whether you’re getting it fresh or frozen. And if you have any questions about it, ask the experts behind the seafood counter. After all, they have a front-row seat to the best options available and can even offer up some cooking tips.

7 ‘Normal’ Symptoms A Doctor Says You Should Never, Ever Ignore

Posted on 28/08/2025 by Boris Clair

Though everything from our nails to the colour of our poop can sometimes reveal health issues; often, variants in both are perfectly normal.

Besides, it feels like everyone is battling with issues like fatigue and back pain most of the time.

So what is “normal”, and what is worth seeing a doctor about?

Dr Kaywaan Khan, a GP at Harley Street’s Hannah London, told HuffPost UK about the seven signs you should never ignore – even if you feel fine.

1) Unexplained weight loss

If you’re shedding the pounds without even trying, Dr Khan warned that everything from thyroid imbalances to early diabetes, digestive disorders, and even stomach or pancreatic cancer could be to blame.

“Unexplained weight loss is typically defined as losing more than 5% of your body weight over a span of 6-12 months, without any changes in diet or physical activity levels,” he explained.

2) Constant exhaustion, even after rest

Though you probably hear “I’m so tired!” from every adult in your life, Dr Khan said it’s still worth seeing a doctor if exhaustion is affecting your day-to-day.

“Persistent fatigue can be linked to conditions such as anaemia, chronic infections like mononucleosis, or even early-stage heart disease… Sleep disorders like insomnia or mental health conditions can also leave you feeling drained and unmotivated on a daily basis, even without physical exertion,” he stated.

If adequate rest doesn’t leave you feeling refreshed, see your GP.

3) Changes in bowel habits

Sudden or long-term changes in your poop can also be worthy of alarm.

“Constipation and diarrhoea are typically just side effects of dietary changes, severe stress, or certain medications, but this could also be from underlying conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or coeliac disease (severe gluten intolerance),” Dr Khan told us.

And bleeding from your bottom may be haemorrhoids, but it could also be caused by stomach or colon cancers.

4) Frequent headaches

If your headaches happen all the time and/or affect your daily functioning, that’s well worth talking to a GP about, Dr Khan said.

And “if headaches are accompanied by other symptoms like vomiting, debilitating pain, vision changes or thunderclap onset, this should prompt urgent GP review,” he added.

The same goes if you notice numbness, weakness, or fainting alongside headaches.

“In these cases, I would advise asking your GP for a referral to a CT or MRI scan to see if there could be any brain-related causes like tumours or aneurysms that might not be visible through blood work alone.”

5) Being short of breath

OK, panting after a jog is normal. But if you can’t catch your breath after taking a few stairs or walking around the shops, that’s worth flagging to a doctor.

This could be down to “respiratory diseases like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which you can get from smoking or long-term exposure to pollution and allergens,” Dr Khan said.

Additionally, “shortness of breath can also be linked to heart disease or blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism), both of which can reduce oxygen supply and strain the heart, lungs, and blood flow all at once”.

If you have sudden shortness of breath alongside chest pain, blue lips, and/or numbness, seek urgent medical help.

6) Lumps and swellings

Sure, Dr Khan admitted, a lot of these are harmless.

“Yes, many lumps are typically benign, such as those that appear consistently in the breast area during menstruation or ovulation due to sudden hormonal changes,” he said, while common conditions can lead to swelling of the glands and abscesses.

“While these lumps are easily treatable, others could point to more serious conditions like breast cancer or lymphoma,” the doctor added. So, it’s always worth getting checked out.

7) Skin changes

Not only can changes to, or the sudden addition of, moles belie skin cancer, but “skin discolouration can also be a major clue”.

Per the GP, “yellowing of the skin (jaundice) warrants same-day assessment and may point to liver issues, bile duct obstruction or even pancreatic problems”.

“A bluish skin tinge to the skin could indicate poor circulation, while grey patches may be linked to autoimmune disorders like lupus,” he added.

Dry and scaly skin may be a sign of everything from dermatitis to allergies, he ended, which is better investigated than ignored.

‘Zone Zero’ Exercise Is The Workout You Don’t Even Know You’re Doing – Here Are Its Benefits

Posted on 12/08/2025 by Boris Clair

Good news for fellow slow runners: it turns out zone two cardio, which sees joggers plod along at a conversational pace, is incredibly good for us.

Professional runners spend about 85% of their training doing that sort of low-impact activity. It puts runners at about 60-70% of their max heart rate.

But if even that sounds a little too much, zone zero movement (yes, really) might be the under-appreciated, super-low-effort way to keep you active without a pricey gym membership or even a pair of trainers.

Never putting your heart above 50% of its max rate, it can be done accidentally – it’s that easy and approachable.

What is zone zero training?

Primary care organisation The Lanby describes zone zero training as a kind of “active rest” – it “aids in active recovery, ensuring your body is ready for the next challenge”.

It means your heart rate never goes above half its maximum level, as we mentioned above. Your max heart rate changes by age: in general, it’s calculated by subtracting your age from 220.

So, say you’re 30 years old. Your max heart rate is around 190; and zone zero training will never see your pulse go above 95 beats per minute.

It can include slow walking, gentle cycling, and yoga. But popping to the shops, doing a bit of light tidying, and pottering around in the kitchen count too.

What are the benefits of zone zero training?

Zone zero training is not only a great way to make exercise accessible to those who might find the idea of a full-on workout a bit much, but active recovery also benefits active people as it helps to flush out waste material that builds up in tired muscles.

Some experts think that those who work out might subconsciously compensate for the added load by not engaging in zone zero moves (like tapping your foot or taking an extra few steps) throughout the day. Remembering to include zone zero work in your routine might help this.

Taking a short stroll after eating, in particular, might help to even out your blood sugar, too. And some suggest that pottering can keep you alive for longer.

What are some examples of zone zero training?

These can include:

Stretching at your desk
Light walking
Yoga
Walking meetings
Rolling your feet on a roller or ball as you work
Gently yoga
Slow cycling
Tidying
Cooking.

Parking a couple more metres away from work than usual or popping to the shops instead of ordering in can all add up.

That’s not to say that zone zero training should replace current health guidelines – the NHS says we should stick to 75 minutes of high-intensity or 150 minutes of moderate-intensity (over 50% of your max heart rate) activity a week.

Not doing so has been linked to shorter, less healthy lives.

Still, going from no activity to some has enormous health benefits too – and whether you find yourself intimidated by intense exercise or are struggling to properly recover from your most hardcore workouts, zone zero may offer an approachable answer.

Pregnant Women In UK Told To Take Action Ahead Of RSV Season

Posted on 05/08/2025 by Boris Clair

For years; women, trans and non-binary people have been urged to get the flu and whooping cough vaccines during pregnancy.

Last year, a new vaccine was added to the list. But you may not have heard about it.

The vaccine is for RSV (respiratory syncytial virus). The illness can be very serious for babies, causing lung infections, breathing difficulties and even death, which is why pregnant individuals are urged to get vaccinated.

As the NHS explains: “When you have the RSV vaccine in pregnancy, the protection from the vaccine is passed to your baby. This means your baby is less likely to get severe RSV for the first six months after they’re born.”

Last winter, Australia saw record numbers of RSV since reporting began. This year, cases had been creeping up again (although they did recently plateau).

Australian winter illness levels can help give some indication of how viruses will spread in England when the cooler weather arrives, which is why the NHS’s top midwife is urging people in the UK who are currently pregnant to prioritise getting vaccinated against the virus.

What do I need to know?

If you’re 28 weeks (or more) pregnant, speak to your maternity service provider or GP about getting booked in for the RSV vaccine.

The vaccine can cause some mild side effects like swelling or pain at the injection site, a headache, and an aching body.

No side effects have been reported in babies born to mothers who have been vaccinated.

Babies born in ‘late summer or the autumn are most likely to be admitted to hospital’

Kate Brintworth, chief midwifery officer for NHS England, said: “While for most adults RSV only causes mild, cold like symptoms, for older adults and young children it can lead to serious breathing problems that can end up in hospitalisation.

“Getting vaccinated while pregnant is the best way to protect your baby from the moment they are born, and now is the time for mums to act, to make sure their babies are protected ahead of their first few months this winter, when there tends to be more bugs circulating.”

Research from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has found the RSV vaccine is 72% effective in preventing hospitalisation for newborns whose mothers are vaccinated more than 14 days before delivery.

Greta Hayward, consultant midwife at the UK Health Security Agency, said the vaccine boosts the pregnant parent’s immune system “to produce more antibodies against the virus, and these then pass through the placenta to help protect their baby from the day they are born”.

RSV season usually starts in October and Hayward said “babies born in late summer or the autumn are most likely to be admitted to hospital”.

Typical symptoms are a sore throat, runny nose, cough or fever, drowsiness, problems feeding or drinking, and difficulty breathing (including wheezing).

Some children with RSV can go on to develop complications such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis. In fact, RSV is the leading cause of bronchiolitis in infants, accounting for around 60-80% of infections.

“Hundreds of babies attend Emergency Departments each day for bronchiolitis through most of November and December,” said Hayward. “That is why it is so important that over the summer pregnant women reaching 28 weeks of pregnancy, ensure they are vaccinated as soon as possible.”