Category Archives: health

Memory Foam Mattress Guide: Choosing the Right Thickness, Cooling Options, and More

Sept. 22, 2025, Published 2:30 a.m. ET

Choosing the Perfect Memory Foam Mattress: A Complete Guide

Choosing the appropriate mattress is one of the most significant health-related decisions you can make. After all, we spend roughly one-third of our lives asleep, and the quality of that sleep influences everything from physical healing to mental clarity. With so many alternatives available now (innerspring, latex, hybrid, and memory foam), it’s easy to become overwhelmed.

Among these options, memory foam mattresses are notable for their outstanding comfort, pressure alleviation, and motion isolation. Memory foam mattresses are a versatile choice for those looking for a new bed for their master bedroom, an improvement for their guest room, or a smaller option for their dorm or RV. They fit to your body, support your spine, and absorb movement, making them particularly popular with couples and light sleepers.

In this blog, we will explain all you need to know about memory foam mattresses. We’ll answer popular inquiries like, “What thickness is best for my needs?” How do I clean it? Does it sleep hot?—and more. We’ll also showcase Yaheetech’s gel memory foam mattress, which features three layers of foam and is safe, supportive, and strategically designed for cooler, more restful sleep.

Whether you’re looking for a twin foam mattress for your child’s room, a queen size memory foam mattress for yourself, or simply want to know how gel memory foam compares to hybrid or spring mattresses, this article will assist. Let’s dive in!

What Is a Memory Foam Mattress?

A memory foam mattress is comprised of viscoelastic foam, known for its ability to respond to body heat and weight while adapting to the sleeper’s body shape. NASA originally developed this foam to improve astronaut seat cushioning and crash protection, but its unique qualities have made it a popular mattress material.

When you lie down on a memory foam mattress, the foam softens and molds to your body, providing support where it’s needed and equally distributing your weight. It relieves pressure points and provides both comfort and spinal support.

Memory foam mattresses have evolved over time, with several variations tailored to meet a variety of sleep preferences and demands.

Popular Types of Memory Foam Mattresses

There are several types of memory foam mattresses available in the U.S. market today, each offering unique features and benefits:

  1. Traditional Memory Foam
    This is the classic memory foam with the delayed response that most people associate with it. It is thick and conforms well to the body, excellent at releasing pressure points. However, it can occasionally retain heat, making it less suitable for hot sleepers.
  2. Gel-Infused Memory Foam
    To combat heat retention, gel-infused memory foam contains cooling gel beads or layers. The gel helps control temperature and keeps the mattress cool, ideal for hot sleepers. It provides the same body-contouring benefits as regular foam but with a cooler sleep environment.
    Yaheetech’s gel-infused memory foam mattress features cooling gel in the upper two layers: the first layer contains gel particles, while the second layer is filled with liquid gel to actively draw heat away for a deep, peaceful sleep.
  3. Plant-Based Memory Foam
    Made from largely renewable plant-based resources such as soy, castor oil, and other plant oils, this foam replaces some petroleum-based chemicals. It’s considered more environmentally friendly and has a shorter recovery period than traditional foam, bouncing back faster after pressure is released.
  4. Graphite-Infused Memory Foam
    Incorporates graphite particles — a natural heat conductor — to enhance cooling and heat dissipation. This helps draw body heat away for a cooler sleep experience while maintaining pressure-relieving comfort and contouring support. Ideal for hot sleepers and warmer climates, it also offers improved durability and antimicrobial properties for a fresher sleeping surface.
  5. Bamboo Charcoal Memory Foam
    Infused with activated charcoal derived from bamboo, this foam delivers natural moisture-wicking, odor-neutralizing, and antibacterial benefits. It’s designed to absorb excess moisture and reduce odors, providing a cleaner sleeping environment.
  6. Copper-Infused Memory Foam
    A relatively new innovation, copper-infused foam combines cooling and antibacterial features. Copper naturally regulates temperature and has anti-inflammatory properties, potentially aiding muscle repair. This type is great for people with joint pain or anyone needing a mattress that stays cool all night.

Should I Get an 8-inch, 10-inch, or 12-inch Memory Foam Mattress?

One of the most frequent questions customers ask is, “How thick should my memory foam mattress be?” Here’s a brief comparison to help you decide:

  • 8-Inch Memory Foam Mattress
    Ideal for children, teenagers, guest rooms, or anyone wanting a firmer, more supportive feel. Its compact design makes it perfect for small spaces and versatile uses like foam floor mattresses, camping setups, bunk beds, or RVs. It’s lightweight, easy to transport, and budget-friendly.
  • 10-Inch Memory Foam Mattress
    A great middle ground offering more cushioning and pressure relief than the 8-inch option. It suits most sleepers, including combination sleepers and couples, providing comfort and support without feeling overly plush.
  • 12-Inch Memory Foam Mattress
    For those who desire a plush, hotel-like sleep experience, the 12-inch mattress is ideal. Deeper foam layers provide enhanced contouring and pressure relief, especially beneficial for side sleepers, heavier individuals, or anyone preferring a softer, more luxurious feel.

Yaheetech’s Gel Memory Foam Mattress Series offers 8″, 10″, and 12″ sizes to accommodate various sleep preferences, body types, and age groups—providing the right balance of comfort and support for everyone in the family.

Memory Foam vs. Spring Mattress: What’s Better?

Choosing between a foam mattress and a spring mattress depends primarily on your personal preferences, sleeping style, and comfort needs. Memory foam mattresses excel in contouring to your body, pressure relief, and motion isolation. Spring mattresses often provide a bouncier feel and better edge support. Consider what matters most to you, such as firmness, heat retention, and motion transfer, when making your choice.

Does Memory Foam Sleep Hot?

A common concern about memory foam is whether it sleeps hot. Traditional memory foam tends to retain heat because it conforms closely to your body, limiting airflow and trapping warmth. Its dense structure provides support but can cause discomfort for hot sleepers or those living in warm climates.

Fortunately, Yaheetech memory foam mattresses tackle this issue with a dual cooling system:

  • Gel Infusion: The top two foam layers are infused with cooling gel that actively draws heat away from your body.
  • Green Tea Infusion: Provides a refreshing scent and contributes to a calming, breathable sleep environment.
  • Ventilated Knit Cover: Features breathable holes and zippers that allow easy airflow and maintenance.

How to Clean a Memory Foam Mattress?

Proper cleaning helps extend the life of your memory foam mattress. Follow these simple steps:

  1. Remove the mattress cover. If it has a zipper, it’s usually machine washable—follow the care instructions on the label.
  2. Clean the foam surface gently using a mild detergent mixed with water and a damp cloth. Avoid soaking the foam.
  3. Allow the foam to air dry completely in a well-ventilated room; never expose it to direct sunlight or heat sources.
  4. Use a mattress protector regularly to prevent dirt, sweat, and allergens from penetrating your mattress.

Is Memory Foam Safe?

Safety is a critical factor when choosing a mattress. Yaheetech memory foam mattresses come with important certifications:

  • OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 Certified Fabric — guarantees the fabric is free from harmful substances.
  • CertiPUR-US Certified Foam — ensures low volatile organic compounds (VOCs), no formaldehyde, and no heavy metals.

These certifications mean you enjoy a clean, irritation-free night’s sleep—especially important for sensitive skin and allergy-prone individuals.

Conclusion

Choosing the ideal memory foam mattress doesn’t have to be difficult. Understanding the many types of memory foam, thickness options, cooling methods, and safety certifications can empower you to make a well-informed decision.

At Yaheetech, we believe better sleep begins with superior materials and thoughtful design. That’s why our gel-infused memory foam mattress collection combines innovative cooling technology, certified-safe components, and multiple thicknesses to match your specific requirements—without compromise.

Your mattress provides more than just a place to sleep. It’s the foundation of your recovery, mental clarity, and overall well-being. So, whether you’re a side sleeper, a hot sleeper, or someone looking for a cleaner, more breathable sleep environment, there is a Yaheetech memory foam mattress designed just for you.

https://radaronline.com/p/memory-foam-mattress-guide-choosing-right-thickness-cooling-options/

Why you must add black pepper to your daily diet

**Why You Must Add Black Pepper to Your Daily Diet**
*By Anujj Trehaan | Sep 22, 2025, 06:53 PM*

Known as the “king of spices,” black pepper is much more than just a kitchen staple. Packed with antioxidants, it combats oxidative stress and offers numerous health benefits. Here are five compelling reasons why black pepper’s antioxidants make it a must-have in your daily diet.

### 1. Boosts Digestive Health
Black pepper stimulates the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, which aids digestion. Effective digestion ensures that nutrients are absorbed efficiently and waste is eliminated properly. Additionally, the antioxidants in black pepper help reduce inflammation in the gut, promoting overall digestive wellness.

### 2. Enhances Nutrient Absorption
The active compound piperine in black pepper enhances the bioavailability of nutrients from other foods. This means that when consumed with nutrient-rich ingredients, black pepper helps your body absorb more vitamins and minerals. For instance, it can increase the absorption of curcumin from turmeric by up to 2,000%. Including black pepper in your meals is a smart way to maximize nutritional benefits.

### 3. Supports Respiratory Health
Traditionally, black pepper has been used to alleviate respiratory issues due to its expectorant properties. Its antioxidants help clear congestion by breaking down mucus in the airways, while its anti-inflammatory effects soothe irritated respiratory passages. This makes breathing easier when dealing with colds or allergies.

### 4. Promotes Skin Health
Thanks to its antioxidant properties, black pepper contributes to healthier skin by combating free radicals, which are responsible for premature aging and skin damage. Regular consumption may help maintain skin elasticity and reduce signs of aging such as wrinkles and fine lines. Moreover, black pepper’s antibacterial qualities can help prevent acne by keeping pores clean and free from bacteria.

### 5. Aids Weight Management
Adding black pepper to your diet may support weight loss efforts through its metabolism-boosting effect called thermogenesis—the process by which the body burns calories faster after consuming certain foods and spices. Piperine not only accelerates metabolic rate but also helps prevent fat storage when combined with regular exercise and a balanced diet focused on a healthy lifestyle.

Incorporate black pepper into your daily meals to enjoy these health benefits and enhance your overall well-being.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/black-pepper-s-antioxidant-power-five-health-benefits-revealed/story

Add these spices to your daily drinks

By Anujj Trehaan | Sep 22, 2025 | 6:31 PM

**Incorporate Daily Spices into Hydrating Drinks to Boost Wellness and Refresh Instantly**

Incorporating daily spices into your hydrating drinks can provide an instant wellness boost and refresh you naturally. These common spices, often found right in our kitchens, offer numerous health benefits when added to beverages. From improving digestion to enhancing immunity, these natural ingredients can transform ordinary drinks into powerful wellness elixirs.

Here’s how you can use some everyday spices to create simple yet effective health-boosting drinks:

### Tip 1: Turmeric’s Golden Touch

Turmeric is renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, largely due to an active compound called curcumin. Adding a pinch of turmeric to warm water or herbal tea can help reduce inflammation and support joint health. For enhanced benefits, combine turmeric with black pepper, which can increase curcumin absorption by up to 2,000%.

This golden spice not only lends a beautiful color to your drink but also promotes overall well-being.

### Tip 2: Ginger’s Zesty Kick

Ginger is well-known for its digestive benefits and its ability to ease nausea. Slicing a few pieces of fresh ginger into hot water creates a comforting drink that soothes stomach discomfort and aids digestion.

Moreover, ginger’s spicy warmth improves circulation and provides comforting heat during colder months. Adding ginger to your daily hydration routine is an easy way to enhance gut health.

### Tip 3: Cinnamon’s Sweet Warmth

Cinnamon is widely celebrated for its role in regulating blood sugar levels and improving insulin sensitivity. Including a cinnamon stick or a dash of ground cinnamon powder in your morning tea or coffee delivers these benefits along with a delightful sweet aroma—without any added sugar.

Additionally, cinnamon contains antioxidants that help fight oxidative stress in the body.

### Tip 4: Cardamom’s Aromatic Flavor

Cardamom imparts a unique aromatic flavor that complements both hot and cold drinks. Known for its detoxifying properties, cardamom helps flush toxins from the body while promoting digestive health.

Simply add crushed cardamom pods or ground cardamom powder to your beverage to enhance flavor and support digestion naturally.

### Tip 5: Clove’s Invigorating Essence

Cloves are packed with antioxidants that combat free radicals and promote oral health due to their antibacterial properties, making them a common ingredient in natural mouthwashes.

Adding a few cloves to warm water creates an invigorating essence that assists digestion after meals, without relying on artificial additives. This makes cloves an excellent natural choice for everyday consumption.

Incorporating these simple spices into your daily drinks not only elevates flavor but also offers a natural path to improved health and wellness. Enjoy exploring these easy, effective ways to boost your hydration routine!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/daily-spices-for-hydrating-wellness-drinks/story

Breadfruit: A superfood worth trying

**Breadfruit: A Superfood Worth Trying**
*By Simran Jeet | Sep 22, 2025, 04:42 pm*

**What’s the story?**
African breadfruit is rapidly gaining attention as a sustainable superfood due to its impressive nutritional benefits and positive environmental impact. This versatile fruit can be incorporated into a variety of dishes, serving as a rich source of essential nutrients. As more people seek eco-friendly food alternatives, African breadfruit emerges as a promising option. Its cultivation demands fewer resources compared to many other crops, making it a valuable choice for sustainable agriculture.

**Nutritional Benefits of African Breadfruit**
Loaded with vitamins and minerals, African breadfruit supports overall health in numerous ways. It is a rich source of vitamin C, which is vital for boosting immunity and aiding collagen production. The fruit also contains potassium, essential for heart health and muscle function. Moreover, its dietary fiber content promotes healthy digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. With such a nutrient profile, African breadfruit is an excellent addition to any balanced diet.

**Environmental Impact of Cultivation**
The environmental footprint of African breadfruit cultivation is relatively low when compared to other crops. It thrives in poor soil conditions and requires less water, making it ideal for drought-prone regions. The fruit grows well without heavy dependence on fertilizers or pesticides, which helps maintain soil health and enhances biodiversity. Encouraging the growth of African breadfruit supports more sustainable farming practices.

**Economic Opportunities for Communities**
Cultivating African breadfruit can unlock new economic prospects for local communities. The fruit can be processed into various products like flour and snacks that are marketable both locally and internationally. This diversification generates income and creates employment opportunities in processing and distribution sectors. Investing in African breadfruit farming and processing helps communities achieve greater economic stability and growth.

**Culinary Versatility of African Breadfruit**
One of African breadfruit’s most attractive qualities is its culinary flexibility. When cooked, it has a texture similar to potatoes, making it perfect for soups, stews, roasting, and more. Its mild flavor readily absorbs spices, enhancing dishes without overpowering other ingredients. This adaptability has made African breadfruit a favorite among chefs seeking innovative, sustainable ingredients for their menus.

African breadfruit stands out as a nutritious, eco-friendly, and economically beneficial superfood. Whether you’re a consumer, farmer, or chef, exploring this versatile fruit offers exciting possibilities for health, sustainability, and community development.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/african-breadfruit-a-sustainable-superfood/story

New to skincare? Let’s get you started

**New to Skincare? Let’s Get You Started**
*By Simran Jeet | Sep 22, 2025 | 02:06 pm*

Starting a skincare routine can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. For beginners, the key is to keep things simple and effective. A basic skincare routine helps maintain healthy skin without flooding you with countless products or steps. By focusing on essential practices, you can achieve a radiant complexion with minimal effort. Here are some practical tips to help you get started on your skincare journey.

### 1. Understand Your Skin Type
Knowing your skin type is the first step in creating an effective skincare routine. Skin types are generally classified as oily, dry, combination, or sensitive. Each type has unique needs and reacts differently to products. Understanding your skin type enables you to choose the right cleansers, moisturizers, and treatments that suit your skin’s specific requirements.

### 2. Start with Cleansing
Cleansing is the most important step in any skincare routine. It removes dirt, oil, and impurities that accumulate on your skin throughout the day. For beginners, using a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type is ideal. Cleansing twice daily—once in the morning and once at night—helps keep your pores clear and prevents breakouts.

### 3. Moisturize Daily
Moisturizing is essential for keeping your skin hydrated and healthy. Even if you have oily skin, skipping moisturizer can actually lead to increased oil production, as your skin tries to compensate for dryness. Choose a lightweight moisturizer that matches your skin type and apply it every day after cleansing.

### 4. Don’t Skip Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a must-have to protect your skin from harmful UV rays that can cause premature aging and raise the risk of skin cancer. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day—even when it’s cloudy or during winter months when UV exposure might be lower.

### 5. Introduce Products Gradually
When adding skincare products such as serums or treatments targeting specific concerns like acne or pigmentation, it’s best to introduce them gradually. Avoid adding multiple new products at once so you can monitor how each one affects your skin without overwhelming or irritating it.

Starting your skincare routine doesn’t need to be complicated. With these simple steps, you’ll be on your way to healthier, glowing skin in no time!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/new-to-skincare-here-s-a-simple-guide/story

The double burden of disease

Pakistan is currently struggling against a public health challenge of a dual nature: the persistence of communicable diseases alongside the rapid rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This double burden of disease strains Pakistan’s already crippling healthcare infrastructure and jeopardizes the well-being of its citizens.

Amidst this complex situation, a new threat has emerged and is spreading at an alarming rate: tobacco-free nicotine pouches. Marketed with deceptive appeal, these products pose a significant and often underestimated risk to an individual’s health.

### What Are Nicotine Pouches?

Nicotine pouches are small sachets placed between the gum and lip, widely advertised as a modern and discreet way to consume nicotine. Unlike traditional tobacco products, these pouches contain nicotine powder extracted from tobacco leaves or synthetically manufactured. Their appeal is enhanced by a wide variety of flavors and the absence of smoke or spit, which are often associated with other tobacco products.

Marketed as tobacco-free or tobacco leaf-free, nicotine pouches have seen a significant recent surge in popularity. This has led to a common misconception that they are harmless.

### The Health Risks of Nicotine

Nicotine is a highly addictive substance with numerous detrimental health effects. Unregulated marketing and the rapid increase in use raise serious public health concerns about its long-term impact.

Nicotine is a potent psychoactive compound that can profoundly affect the human body. Its use leads to addiction—a chronic, relapsing brain disease characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences. This addiction, particularly when it begins in youth, can disrupt brain development. Normally, the brain continues to develop until a person’s mid-twenties. Early exposure can impair cognitive functions, including attention and learning, and may increase the likelihood of addiction to other substances later in life.

### Cardiovascular and Oral Health Concerns

Clinical trials have well-documented the extensive health risks associated with nicotine. Nicotine use has been linked to several cardiovascular issues: it can cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, placing added strain on the heart. Long-term use can contribute to the hardening of artery walls, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. These conditions already represent a major part of the NCD burden in Pakistan, and the proliferation of nicotine pouches threatens to exacerbate this crisis.

Local effects of nicotine pouches on oral health are also a serious concern. Placing the pouch directly against the gums can lead to irritation and inflammation. Prolonged and repeated use can cause gum recession, where the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing roots and increasing the risk of dental caries and tooth loss. While the long-term impact on oral cancer is still under study, the potential for chronic irritation and inflammation of oral tissues remains a significant health risk.

### The Regulatory Vacuum and Its Consequences

The market for nicotine pouches in Pakistan is largely unregulated. Their tobacco-free status allows them to bypass many of the regulations and taxes that apply to traditional tobacco products. This regulatory vacuum has created room for aggressive marketing campaigns, especially on social media, targeting young adults and adolescents.

The appealing flavors and discreet nature of these products make them particularly attractive to this demographic, creating a new generation of nicotine users and perpetuating the cycle of addiction.

One recent study highlighted the alarming trend of high nicotine pouch use among young adults in Pakistan, many of whom are unaware of the associated health risks. The lack of robust regulation, combined with deceptive marketing, directly contributes to Pakistan’s double burden of disease.

### The Path Forward: Legislative and Regulatory Action

As NCDs, including cardiovascular diseases and certain cancers, continue to rise, the introduction of easily accessible and addictive nicotine products threatens to worsen this prognosis. This places an immense burden on Pakistan’s healthcare system and economy, draining resources desperately needed for other public health initiatives.

In a positive development, the National Assembly passed the NIH bill on August 12. The bill emphasizes the dire need for establishing a national cancer registry to understand the actual burden of disease and to implement a national action plan for cancer prevention and management.

Through this bill, the structure and governance of the National Institute of Health will be strengthened, ensuring the reorganization of the institution and enhancing its performance. The approval marks a significant step toward reforms in the health sector and institutional improvement.

### Urgent Call to Action

To safeguard public health, particularly among the younger population, it is imperative that the government and regulatory authorities take immediate and decisive action:

– **Include nicotine pouches in the taxation stream** to limit widespread use.
– **Bring the sale and distribution of these products under strict regulatory control.**
– **Consider a comprehensive ban on the sale of nicotine pouches** as the most effective and direct way to address this emerging public health threat.

By eliminating this silent scourge, Pakistan can protect future generations and make tangible strides toward reducing the double burden of disease that plagues the nation. The time for action is now.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1345109-the-double-burden-of-disease

Researcher develops method for protein-protein structure prediction

A Nigerian researcher, Muinat Zubair, has developed an innovative method for predicting protein structure and protein-protein interactions by combining experimental and computational approaches.

Zubair made this discovery during her time as a graduate teaching and research assistant at Tennessee Technological University, USA, where she earned her MSc in chemistry. Speaking about her work, she explained that her research contributes to solving the protein folding problem—a challenge that has perplexed scientists for over 50 years.

“I used artificial intelligence software to predict the full-length structures and interaction between two mammalian enzymes,” Zubair said. These proteins are part of the larger mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, which is activated in response to cellular stress. According to her, malfunction in this pathway worsens symptoms of several neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

“Understanding the structures of these proteins and how they bind and activate each other will help us develop therapeutic targets to manage these diseases and improve outcomes for patients and their families,” she added.

Neurodegenerative diseases are increasingly becoming a global pandemic, affecting millions of people worldwide. Zubair highlighted that this number is expected to rise as the global population of older adults grows.

The steady-state kinetics of these proteins had never been studied prior to her research. Supervised by Dr. Xuanzhi Zhan, she determined their apparent Michaelis-Menten parameters through kinase assays and Western blot quantification.

In addition, Zubair predicted the full-length structures and protein-protein interactions using AlphaFold2 and AlphaFold-Multimer—two cutting-edge artificial intelligence tools designed to elucidate the structure and behavior of proteins and other macromolecules.

“Previously, X-ray diffraction studies had only solved the structures of the kinase domains of these proteins,” she explained. “However, prior research showed that other parts of the enzymes also contribute to binding and activation, emphasizing the need to predict the entire structure.”

To validate her findings, Zubair used additional computational methods. “I applied molecular dynamics simulations to test and confirm protein stability and performed protein frustratometer analysis, contact mapping, and other assessments on the interface between the docked proteins. The protein structures remained stable under simulated physiological conditions,” she noted.

Beyond pioneering kinetic data on the MAPK pathway, Zubair emphasized that the computational methods she employed could be applied broadly to study other proteins. Nevertheless, she acknowledges that computational results require validation through wet-laboratory experiments.

“That is the next stage of the project,” she said. “It involves site-directed mutagenesis and studying the other two isoforms of the enzyme to further validate our results.”

Originally from Iganna in Oyo State, Nigeria, Zubair grew up in Ibadan and earned her first degree in biochemistry from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Nigeria. She is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in the highly selective Purdue University Interdisciplinary Life Science program (PULSe) and was awarded the prestigious Lynn Fellowship to support her PhD studies.

Looking ahead, Zubair expresses a strong commitment to advancing human health, particularly in the field of neurodegenerative diseases. “I find so much fulfillment knowing that I could potentially discover a druggable target or help improve our understanding of these diseases,” she said.
https://tribuneonlineng.com/researcher-develops-method-for-protein-protein-structure-prediction/

Can you get your nutrition intake from ‘random leftovers’? A dietitian weighs in

Annie Jacobs-Perkins is a 28-year-old cellist who shares a glimpse into her typical day’s meals and eating habits.

**8:00 AM**
A cup of black coffee starts her day. “I don’t always eat breakfast; today was one of those days,” Annie admits.

**11:45 AM**
For a mid-morning snack, she enjoys homemade pumpkin bread with cream cheese, accompanied by some red plums sourced from a local farmer. “I prioritise plant-heavy meals and local produce,” she explains.

**1:00 PM**
Lunch consists of a variety of random leftovers: lentil curry, tofu salad, kimchi, sprouts, salad, and a few bites of local cheddar cheese.

**4:30 PM**
While on a family holiday, Annie visits an Amish food stand called Sharps Market in Adams, New York, to pick up fresh fruit, vegetables, and cheese. At home, the family shares half a watermelon. They save the rinds, which Annie is fermenting into watermelon rind pickles using gochujang and garlic.

**6:30 PM**
Dinner features grilled corn, beans, and peppers tossed into a salad with lime juice and tomatoes. She also roasts chickpeas and butter beans with salt, pepper, and olive oil. The roasted chickpeas and salad are served on a bed of yoghurt mixed with lemon juice, ricotta cheese, and garlic.

**10:00 PM**
Annie ends the day with a sweet treat: a bowl of vanilla ice cream drizzled with maple syrup.

**Expert Nutrition Insights**
Dr Joanna McMillan praises Annie’s eating habits:
“Top marks for your strong focus on local produce and the wide variety of plant foods. I love how you use up leftovers and your home-fermenting, which both reduces waste and promotes emerging gut and immune health benefits.”

However, Dr McMillan also offers some advice for continued health:
“If you keep eating like this, you’ll need to watch your iron intake, which can be low for women in their 20s if animal foods are limited. Without fish or seafood, your omega-3 intake is also on the low side. While dairy supplies some high-quality protein, the lack of eggs, meat, or seafood means you need to be mindful of replacing or supplementing certain nutrients.”

She suggests a few practical tips:
– Increase your intake of iron-rich plant foods such as lentils, beans, pumpkin seeds, and dark leafy greens.
– Pair these with vitamin C-rich foods to boost iron absorption.
– Consider a marine algae omega-3 supplement if fish isn’t on the menu.
– For extra protein variety, try nut butters, tempeh, or quinoa.

Annie Jacobs-Perkins will perform in the Sydney Opera House’s Utzon Music series on October 12.

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https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/lifestyle/health-and-wellness/can-you-get-your-nutrition-intake-from-random-leftovers-a-dietitian-weighs-in-20250903-p5mrzx.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feed

Faculty Crunch Hits Government, Private Medical Colleges Across Madhya Pradesh

**Faculty Recruitment a Growing Challenge for Medical Colleges in Madhya Pradesh**

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Faculty recruitment has become a serious challenge not just for private medical colleges, but also for newly established government institutions across Madhya Pradesh. According to norms, each medical subject requires at least six faculty members: a professor, associate professor, assistant professor, two demonstrators, and one senior resident (SR). This standard applies uniformly to both government and private medical colleges.

Medical colleges offering the MBBS course must teach at least 12 core subjects over five years. In MBBS Part I, students study Anatomy, Physiology, and Biochemistry. The second-year curriculum includes Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology, and Forensic Medicine & Toxicology (FMT).

To meet the growing demand, the state government’s Health and Medical Education website has listed recruitment notifications for assistant professors and demonstrators at newly established medical colleges in Chhindwara, Datia, and Satna.

Meanwhile, private colleges face similar staffing challenges. However, recent tech-driven reforms aim to keep these challenges in check. Managements of private medical colleges report strict adherence to National Medical Commission (NMC) rules, especially since the introduction of the face-based Aadhaar authentication faculty attendance system in May.

This system was implemented to curb earlier instances of faculty misreporting or proxy attendance. Now, each faculty member’s presence is tracked via real-time biometric authentication, leaving little room for discrepancies.

**Hiring on for Higher Classes**

Dr. Vaibhav Jain, Deputy Director, Health and Medical Education (Recruitment), stated, “We have full faculty in MBBS Part I in new medical colleges. Professors are available, but SRs come and go — that’s a regular occurrence in government medical colleges. We’re not facing problems in older medical colleges, and even in new colleges, Part I is fully staffed. Phase-wise recruitment is underway for MBBS-II and MBBS-III and will continue as required.”
https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/faculty-crunch-hits-government-private-medical-colleges-across-madhya-pradesh

Pizza-loving lizards to alcoholic bats: Bizarre research wins Ig Nobel

**Pizza-loving lizards to alcoholic bats: Bizarre research wins Ig Nobel**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 19, 2025, 05:21 PM*

The 35th annual Ig Nobel Prize awards, a celebration of bizarre yet thought-provoking scientific achievements, took place recently at Boston University. The event was also streamed online, allowing a global audience to join in the fun. This year’s ceremony centered around the theme of **digestion**, featuring intriguing talks and unique performances.

One highlight was a presentation by Dr. Trisha Pasricha, who explored the curious connection between smartphone use on toilets and the incidence of hemorrhoids. Additionally, attendees enjoyed a mini-opera titled *“The Plight of the Gastroenterologist,”* adding an artistic touch to the scientific festivities.

### Unusual Research Topics Recognized

The Ig Nobel Prizes, awarded by actual Nobel laureates, honored a variety of unconventional studies that blend curiosity with humor. Some of the standout topics included painting cows with zebra stripes to reduce fly bites and investigating pizza preferences among different lizard species.

Among the notable winners were William B. Bean, who received a posthumous award for meticulously documenting the growth of his fingernail over 35 years. Julie Mennella and Gary Beauchamp were recognized for their research on how garlic consumption affects nursing babies. Meanwhile, Marcin Zajenkowski and Gilles Gignac studied how narcissists react when told they are intelligent, revealing quirky insights into human psychology.

### Innovative Chemistry and Engineering Research

The awards also celebrated groundbreaking work in chemistry and engineering. Rotem Naftalovich, Daniel Naftalovich, and Frank Greenway won the chemistry prize for their unusual study on eating Teflon to increase food volume without adding calories—an idea sure to spark both laughter and curiosity.

In the field of engineering design, Vikash Kumar and Sarthak Mittal examined how foul-smelling shoes influence the experience of using a shoe rack, blending everyday annoyances with scientific investigation.

The physics prize was awarded to a team that analyzed the clumping behavior of pasta sauce, a seemingly trivial phenomenon with surprisingly complex underlying principles.

Carly York, an associate professor of biology at Lenoir-Rhyne University in Hickory, North Carolina, commented on the event’s overall impact: these winners perfectly fulfill the Ig Nobel’s mission—to make people laugh and then think.

The Ig Nobel Prizes continue to celebrate the weird and wonderful side of science, proving that curiosity knows no bounds and that humor can be a powerful tool for learning.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/bizarre-research-honored-at-2025-ig-nobel-prize-awards/story