Is sleep training likely to help or harm your baby?

Harriet Hiscock, The University of Melbourne

Welcoming a baby is a time of great joy for parents. It can also be one of the most challenging. One of the greatest difficulties many parents face is getting their baby to sleep and re-settling following night wakings.

When these problems persist, parents’ sleep can be disrupted, worsening their mental health and wellbeing.

At this stage, some parents might then turn to sleep strategies, previously known as sleep training. Sleep strategies aim to help a baby learn to settle themselves to sleep, without the help of an adult.

Others worry about claims these strategies might harm their baby.

So what does the evidence say?

Sleep is a learnt skill. While some babies learn to go to sleep easily, others need more help. If used properly, the evidence shows sleep strategies can help babies and parents sleep better, and don’t harm the baby or their relationship with their parents.

But they can be hard to implement.

When might you use sleep strategies?

Sleep strategies are best suited to babies aged six months or older, once they can get enough food during the day to meet their nutritional needs. Younger babies may still need to wake for a night feed.

Only use sleep strategies if your baby’s sleep is actually a problem for you – some parents are happy to get up multiple times overnight, and that’s fine too.

A good bedtime routine is the foundation for success with any strategy – it helps a baby know that settling time is coming, and babies thrive on predictability. A good bedtime routine may include dinner, bath, PJs, a story and cuddle, then into bed.

How the ‘checking method’ works

The checking method is a common sleep strategy which used to be called controlled crying or controlled comforting. It’s known as “graduated extinction” in scientific literature.

It involves parents putting their baby into their sleep space (such as a cot) drowsy but still awake, then leaving them to self-settle.

If the baby cries, the parent returns at increasing time intervals (for example, starting the night with two-minute intervals, then moving to four minutes, then six) and pats or rocks their baby until they are calm but still awake, then leaves. Parents repeat this until their baby falls asleep or the parent feels they have had enough, in which case they can pick them up, comfort them and try again the following night.

This doesn’t mean parents leave their baby to “cry it out”, as the parent returns at regular intervals to comfort the baby.

The checking method usually takes three to seven nights for a baby to learn to self-settle.

‘Camping out’ is another strategy

Another commonly used strategy is camping out, known in the clinic as “graduated extinction with parental presence”.

This involves the parent putting a camp bed or chair next to the baby’s sleep space.

For the first few nights, the parent pats their baby to sleep then leaves the room.

Once the baby is settling with this, the parent can sing or talk quietly until the baby falls asleep, rather than patting them.

After a few nights, the parent moves the chair or camp bed a couple of feet away from the sleep space.

Over ten to 14 nights, the parent gradually moves out of the bedroom altogether.

Can these strategies harm babies?

Some parents worry they may be causing harm to their baby. And misinformation has made it difficult for parents to weigh the pros and cons.

Some social media has conflated the outcomes of children from Romanian orphanages – who experienced prolonged deprivation in the 1980s – with the outcomes of sleep strategies.

Children from these orphanages were more likely to develop psychiatric disorders than peers raised in families. But it is the extreme circumstances of their upbringing that caused this, not sleep strategies.

We studied the impacts over five years

Our trials and follow-up of 328 Australian babies, starting in 2003, suggest sleep strategies are safe and effective.

We compared two groups of eight-month-olds: one (intervention) whose parents met with a trained nurse for advice on the strategies above, and one (usual care) who received no advice.

We followed these babies to ages ten and 12 months, and again at two and five years.

At ten and 12 months, mothers in the intervention group reported fewer baby sleep problems and better mental health than the usual care group.

By age two, mothers in the intervention group again reported better mental health, while parenting style and child mental health were similar between groups.

At age five, there were no group differences in child sleep, salivary cortisol (a stress marker), child emotional or behavioural scores, mother-child closeness, use of harsh parenting, or parent mental health.

In short, use of sleep strategies in babies was not associated with any evidence of harm to the child or the parent-child relationship.

Similarly, a 2016 study of 43 infants in Adelaide found that one month on from doing sleep strategies, babies’ salivary cortisol decreased compared to those who did not do sleep strategies.

Twelve months later, there was no difference in child emotional or behavioural problems or in mother-child attachment between the groups.

I think I want to use sleep strategies, what next?

If your baby is aged six months or older and you want to try sleep strategies, agree on the approach with your partner, if you have one. This includes choosing which strategy you’ll use and how it will work in your household. Some parents alternate nights so both get a better nights’ sleep on alternate nights.

Strategies work best alongside a consistent bedtime routine and during a quiet one to two week stretch with few disruptions.

Only start when your baby is well – you can pause if they get sick and restart once they’ve recovered.

The evidence shows sleep strategies can work and you can be reassured there is no evidence of long-term harm to children.

If you need help with infant sleep, or if these strategies haven’t worked, talk to your GP or child health nurse. They can refer you to an inpatient early parenting centre for more intensive support, if needed.

Harriet Hiscock, Principal Fellow, Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

Read More........→September 02, 2026

Doctors blame junk food for rising heart problems among school-going kids

IANS Photo

New Delhi, June 5 (IANS) Increased consumption of junk foods and less physical activity is the main reason why school children are seeing a spike in heart attacks, said doctors here on Monday.

Several recent media reports have shown kids as young as 10-year-olds dying due to heart attacks.

"Fast food culture is growing up in our country as a whole, which I believe is the main reason behind such conditions," Dr Neeraj Aggarwal, a paediatric cardiologist at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, told IANS.

"The number of heart attacks in children is not very high. But, due to increased obesity and sedentary lifestyles, the risk of suffering from a heart attack has spiked," added Dr Amit Misri, Associate Director, Pediatrics Cardiology, Paediatrics, Medanta, Gurugram

The doctors lamented the drastic change in children's lifestyles -- children prefer playing online games instead of engaging in physical activity. They tend to take the elevator rather than the stairs.

They consume food from outside instead of home food which is balanced. Their food choices veer towards those which contain carbohydrates and fats - all providing the child energy which/he is not physically expending.

So, all these leads to obesity which increases the risk and possible incidence of heart attacks, Dr Misri said.

Dr Aggarwal said bad lifestyle is causing tiredness, high blood pressure as well as diabetes among the kids, all which are again risk factors for heart attacks.

Numerous studies have documented the ill effects of consumption of ultra processed foods which have a high and sugar salt content.

In addition the health experts also mentioned congenital problems in some kids, which can lead to sudden cardiac death in patients.

"These patients are prone to having arrhythmias which can lead to sudden cardiac arrest. Of late we have seen that the children who were diagnosed with Covid also might have a small risk of blocked coronary arteries which over a period of time can cause cardiac death," Dr Misri told IANS.

Secondary infections like Covid, dengue and malaria all can increase risk for heart failure in children as they cause damage to the heart muscle, said Dr Aggarwal.

Apart from that there are some genetic or syndrome disorders. Like the Marfan syndrome whereby the arteries of the body are dilated, and they have a propensity to suddenly rupture which can be a cause of sudden cardiac death.

Substance abuse by teenagers, the use of supplements when using the gym, dieting and exercising to extremes - these can also cause heart attacks.

How can we prevent this?

A lifestyle change with proper exercise, balanced food which is less on sugars, carbohydrates, fats, more of protein intake of fresh fruits or home-cooked is of utmost importance, the health experts noted.

Children should be encouraged to engage in physical activities for 30 minutes to one hour daily. These include sports like swimming, cycling, any sort of activity that increases the output or consumes more of energy that is first.

Dr Aggarwal said that besides parents, school and teachers can also play a significant role in helping children cut down on sedentary lifestyle and inculcate healthy habits

"School plays a major role, it can restrict junk food in its canteens. Avoid junk food. Even a healthy looking juice is loaded with sugars. Foods high in carbohydrate; maggi, cold drinks, shouldn't be allowed in school canteens," he said.Teachers should also be educated and made aware of the harm of eating unhealthy foods, who can then in turn educate children, the doctor said. Doctors blame junk food for rising heart problems among school-going kids | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com

Read More........→August 21, 2026

How much do friends influence teens’ mental health? What a new study can (and can’t) tell us

Samantha Peralta/Unsplash 

Scarlett Smout, University of Sydney; Louise Birrell, University of Sydney, and Tim Slade, University of Sydney

During adolescence, young people become especially sensitive to peer influence – more so than any other time in life.

So, how does this affect their mental health?

A new study from Finland, released today, analysed data from more than 600,000 young people born between 1985 and 2000 (meaning both millennials and early Gen Zs).

It found that people whose peers had been diagnosed with a mental health condition – such as anxiety or depression – were more likely to develop a mental health condition themselves.

The researchers say these findings support the idea of “social transmission” of mental health conditions. But we need to be careful: this doesn’t mean these conditions are “contagious” in the same way as an infectious disease.

Many other factors, including genetic predisposition, also play a role in teen mental health. The data also can’t tell us if the “peers” are actually friends. Let’s take a look.

Mental health conditions on the rise

Around the world, depression and anxiety are increasing among young people. In Australia, recent data shows rates of anxiety in young people have increased from 13% to 28% over the past 15 years, while suicide attempts have doubled.

Despite greater awareness and expanded mental health services, young people are experiencing more severe and complex mental health challenges than ever before.

We know both friends and family play an important role in mental health. Family factors – including genetics – and environmental influences – such as peer relationships – each uniquely shape the development of mental health conditions.

What the study did and what it found

The new Finnish study explored the relationship between young people’s mental health and that of their peers. It aimed to find out whether having a peer with a diagnosed mental health condition, or a peer with a family history of one, increases your own likelihood of a diagnosis.

The researchers did this by analysing nationwide data in Finland, including health records and school enrolments.

The study made some interesting key findings:

1. if you had a peer with a diagnosed mental health condition or a peer with diagnoses in their family – for example, anxiety – you were more likely to be diagnosed with this same condition

2. the effect was stronger among peers who attended the same school, rather than lived in the same area – particularly in later adolescence.

The authors conclude that the findings support the idea of “transmission” of mental health risk in adolescence.

But there are some important caveats

It’s important to note that terms like “transmission” or “contagion” are not used in the same way as for infectious diseases. You cannot “catch” a mental health condition.

Instead, these terms describe how emotions, behaviours and social norms can spread between peers over time and influence mental health. For example, if there is increased awareness of mental health and reduced stigma within a group of peers, people in that group may be more comfortable seeking help (although the study didn’t test this).

Importantly, peer relationships and genetic risk are part of a complex mix of factors that shape adolescent mental health.

Because this study defined peers by school year or location, findings likely reflect shared school and community influences. In other words, these “peers” were likely exposed to similar environmental conditions, ranging from school cultures and educational approaches to neighbourhood features such as green space.

What the study couldn’t measure

The size of this study is a key strength. However, because this is achieved by using “register data” such as health records, there are some constraints:

• the data can’t tell you if people actually knew each other or were friends. So the study defined “peer networks” according to school (for example, those in the same grade and born in the same year) or where they lived (for example, people in the same postcode born in the same year)

• “genetic risk” was inferred from family diagnoses, rather than DNA, and there may be various reasons someone with a mental health condition doesn’t get a diagnosis

• the study couldn’t account for all the factors known to increase or lower someone’s risk of having a mental health condition. For example, it included someone’s sex, age and their parents’ income and education level. But it didn’t consider other factors known to play a role in adolescent mental health, such as their gender identity, ethnicity and what their school is like, as well as lifestyle behaviours, such as whether they smoke, drink alcohol or get regular exercise

• the study also found that if someone’s peer had a family history of a mental health condition, such as a substance use disorder, they had a higher chance of receiving the same diagnosis. But because the data only looks at diagnosis, it can’t capture other factors which might better explain the link – such as shared factors in families’ social environments.

Where to next?

This study shows both peers and their family risk are linked to adolescent mental health, but it cannot explain how these effects occur.

To understand how mental health conditions “spread” within peer networks, we still need research that disentangles the effects of peer selection (choosing similar friends) from peer influence (how friends shape each other).

But the importance of school environments is clear. School-based mental health programs which harness the influential role of peers are key. In Australia, a program called Mind your Mate, has already shown promise in lowering depression risk in teens through education about mental health and how to support peers.

Together, these findings point beyond individuals to the wider environments young people are part of. Ultimately, improving adolescent mental health means investing in the people and places around them, such as the schools and communities where peer relationships take shape.

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Thank you to Professor Cath Chapman for her role in developing this article.

If this article has raised issues for you, or if you’re concerned about someone you know, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can also call 13YARN on 13 92 76.

Scarlett Smout, Research Fellow, The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, University of Sydney; Louise Birrell, Researcher, The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, University of Sydney, and Tim Slade, Professor, The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, University of Sydney

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

Read More........→August 05, 2026

Love is good for health

By Cena, Although it sounds funny or weird, studies and experiments have demonstrated a closerelationship between health and love. It has been shown that the bonds offriendship, love and affection, enhance health and happiness. Some of the benefits of love on health are: improving attention, motivation and memory. There is a significant reduction in anxiety, stress and depression. Strengthens the immune system, dispels wrinkles and low levels of hypertension. Here are some findings that relate to health and love: 

• (1) Strengthens the immune system. Biochemical reactions experienced by the body of a person when being in love help improve health and help to "strengthen the immune system," according to experts. With love our quality of life is better and tend to get sick less, and that negative feelings are outweighed by the positive and our body works better. 
• (2) Influences on the rapid recovery. We have seen that sick people who have someone to love them and watch for them, have a faster recovery than patients who have no affection from anyone. (3) Improves quality of life. We are more likely to get sick and depressed when we have problems and we are alone. However, the love we prolong life. Being loved makes problems feel lighter with the support of others.  
• (4) Energy and stress. According to experts, the emotional well it feels like to be able to give love and helping others makes people feel more energy and fighting stress. 
• (5) A feeling of great comfort. From the endocrinological point of view, love brings change for the better. As Jesus says Dr. Rocca, Ricardo Palma Clinic, "the first thing you are beta releases endorphins that trigger when you're in love, and are responsible for the feeling of great comfort.  (6) Love rejuvenates. "The hormones, the nervous system and skin, forming a narrow triangle, so the separation of estrogen in women improves hair, nails, skin," says Sandro Tucto dermatologist. 
• (7) Fewer doctor visits. Another study found that couples who have spent more time together, make fewer doctor visits. The psychiatrist Enrique Galli said that "stable relationships get colds less than singles, while elderly couples suffer less pain than the lonely elderly. This is due to segregation of hormones that allow for greater resistance to pain. " 
• (8) Making love, health benefits. Keeping sexually active and safe, influences our physical and emotional state is very important to our overall health. It is scientifically proven that people who frequently make love, get sick less and are happier. The list of health benefits that are attributed to sex as therapeutic activity include: well-being, improves self-esteem, makes you look younger, is a natural pain reliever, improves interpersonal relationships, reduces snoring, strengthens immune system, increases energy, relieves symptoms of depression, anxiety and psychosomatic disorders. So now you know, since love helps heal, self-medication is recommended a good dose of love every day to live healthy and happy. Source: Forum Human Health, Image: flickr.com

Read More........→July 15, 2026

New Study of 10,000+ People Revealed Regular Physical Activity Is Linked to Larger Healthier Brains

– credit, Getty Images for Unsplash +

In a new study, scientists seeking to better understand how physical activity protects against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s found it’s because exercise makes the brain larger.

2 to 3 days of moderate to vigorous physical activity was correlated to a significant increase in total brain matter and in specific regions like the temporal lobe and hippocampus.

To ensure the record is understood absolutely clearly—there’s no doubt that physical activity protects the brain from neurodegenerative diseases, including mild and severe cognitive impairment, Alzheimer’s, Parkinsons, and other forms of dementia.

The Canadian/American research team sought to better understand the mechanisms behind this effect.

Light physical activity, number of steps taken per day, and number of city blocks traversed per day, are all modalities that have been used to measure connections between physical activity and preventing these diseases, showing that even pedestrian, non-athletic, non-sportive activity can be neuroprotective in some cases.

One of the main culprits, in a positive sense, for this effect is brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). BDNF is released into the brain during periods of exercise where it lowers neuro-inflammation, improves synaptic connection, and performs other functions too numerous to list here.

The study benefitted from the use of a deep-learning neural network that allowed for multiple MRI scans of the same brain to be analyzed rapidly.

10,000 participants (and their brains) with an average age of 54, but ranging from 18 to 97, who were about half men and half women made up the study cohorts.

Exercise was self-reported—an inevitable flaw when conducting large population studies like this one. Participants were asked how many days of the week they engaged in 10 minutes or more of moderate or vigorous intensity exercise.

While previous studies quantified moderate and vigorous intensity through heartbeats per minute, this and other more modern studies simply define moderate as being engaged in physical activity and still being able to talk, but not being able to sing. Vigorous was defined as being in a state where only a few words could be spoken before pausing to breathe.

10,125 brain MRI scans were examined, and it was determined that a higher number of days of moderate to vigorous physical activity “predicted larger normalized brain volumes in multiple regions, including total gray matter volume, total white matter volume, hippocampus, frontal cortex, parietal lobes, and occipital lobe,” the authors wrote.

This was particularly true for the occipital lobe, parietal lobe, hippocampus, posterior cingulate, and temporal lobe, which all had correlative significance (also known as the p-value) of 6 or higher. A result of 6 or higher is typically when scientists begin to take notice of correlations—trained as they are to take them always with a grain of salt.

Brain matter and size are all predictors of better cognitive and neurological health as we age, while neurodegenerative diseases are often found in less-dense brains.

“The study included adults aged 18-97, showing it’s never too early or late to start,” wrote Chris Kresser, founder of the California Center for Functional Medicine, who was not involved in the study.

“While 75% of participants reported doing some regular physical activity, many didn’t meet standard exercise guidelines—yet still showed brain benefits. This adds to growing evidence that even modest physical activity can protect brain health.”

“Notably, moderate exercise appeared more beneficial than vigorous activity, suggesting you don’t need to be a super-athlete to reap the brain benefits,” he added. New Study of 10,000+ People Revealed Regular Physical Activity Is Linked to Larger Healthier Brains

Read More........→July 03, 2026

How does parent‑child interaction therapy work? And who can use it?

Shawna Mastro Campbell, Bond University; Melanie J. Zimmer-Gembeck, Griffith University, and Tanya Hawes, Griffith University

Children thrive when parents are warm and responsive to their needs, while also providing clear guidance and setting limits. This is known as authoritative parenting.

But most parents will tell you authoritative parenting is easier said than done, especially when children have frequent intense emotions, big behaviours, meltdowns and outright defiance.

These challenges can lead parents to wish they had a parenting coach helping them know what to do and say.

Parent-child interaction therapy aims to do just that. It has been used in parts of Australia for around 20 years and is now available in some western Sydney schools.

So how does it actually work?

It focuses on the relationship

Parent-child interaction therapy is based on attachment theory, which posits that quality relationships in childhood predict wellbeing.

The parent and child play together in one room while the therapist observes in an adjacent room through a one-way mirror.

Using an ear-piece and microphone (or other communication device), the therapist acts as a coach to guide a parent’s responses to their child during play.

Coaching guides parents as they use positive attention skills to respond to their children’s behaviours and emotions as they occur. Within such a supportive environment, this reduces the child’s problematic behaviour and increases appropriate behaviours.

This guided, real-life practice gives parents the ability to use the techniques on their own, wherever they are, and enriches the parent-child connection.

Here’s what it can look like in practice.

How do kids experience it?

Parent-child interaction therapy was was first used in the 1970s to treat problem behaviours of children aged three to seven years. It’s now used from 15 months of age.

Although the child can’t see the therapist through the mirror window, they are aware their parent can hear the therapist through the earpiece.

From the child’s perspective, the play environment is often enjoyable and they get to spend high quality one-on-one time with their parent, enhancing the relationship.

Parents learn the importance of their attention

Throughout the therapy, the parent directly experiences the importance of their own attention.

When children get their parent’s attention for disruptive or other challenging behaviour, such as yelling, this can escalate children’s disruptive behaviour over time because parental attention makes any behaviour more likely to occur.

Children will even seek this attention if it comes in the form of a parent yelling, correcting, or negotiating, especially if they get little connection or attention when behaving appropriately.

In parent-child interaction therapy, parents use attention to reinforce their child’s positive behaviour. They practise giving positive attention for appropriate behaviour, such as praising and showing enthusiasm for children’s patience, kindness, good listening, or sharing.

The therapy also encourages parents to limit attention to unwanted behaviour when it’s safe to do so. A parent may be coached to avoid acknowledging when a child uses inappropriate language or “toilet talk”, for example.

Practising these attention strategies can increase children’s positive behaviours and interrupt the cycle of worsening behaviour and negativity.

Parents practise authoritative parenting

During parent-child interaction therapy, parents practise real-time strategies for authoritative parenting that:

• demonstrate warmth and responsiveness to their child’s needs
• fairly and clearly state expectations for behaviour
• are consistent in developmentally appropriate consequences, especially for aggressive behaviour.
  

Coaching focuses on responding kindly, while still setting clear boundaries and expectations for behaviour.

For example, by saying:

Thank you for following the rule of being gentle today. I really like when you do that at home with your brother, too.

Who is – and isn’t – it suitable for?

Research from Australia and abroad shows this type of therapy can be effective for behavioural and related emotion regulation problems.

It has also been shown to be effective among culturally diverse families and those who have faced adversity or have complex health and mental health challenges.

Research shows additional benefits for parents. These include reduced stress, improved parenting skills and confidence and improvements in the ability to manage difficult emotions such as anger.

Parent-child interaction therapy is most often used for children with conduct disorder, oppositional defiance disorder, and trauma-related conditions, as well as conditions where behaviour concerns can be a symptom, such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder.

However, it can be used for children without any mental health diagnosis

It’s not recommended when there are safety issues or unstable relationships in the family or home environment. In these instances, other interventions should be prioritised over treating children’s behaviour concerns.

The downsides

Parent-child interaction therapy is time consuming and resource intensive. Therapy typically lasts 14 to 16 weeks, with most sessions involving both parents and children. Research shows repeated practice can lead to more sustained improvements in children’s behaviour. So it can involve a big commitment from parents.

Parent-child interaction therapy is delivered by qualified mental health service providers such as registered psychologists and social workers. They require extensive training, ongoing professional development and program training from an approved provider, as well has months of supervised practice. They also require specialised rooms and equipment. This can limit access.

Currently in Australia, the program is offered at a few universities and in some school settings, with costs often offset by public funding. There are few private providers.

Behaviour problems are the most common reason parents seek support for children. Supporting them with evidence-based programs or therapies – whether that’s parent-child interaction therapy or others – can deliver wide-reaching benefits across their lifespan.

Shawna Mastro Campbell, Associate Professor in Clinical Psychology, Bond University; Melanie J. Zimmer-Gembeck, Professor of Psychology, Griffith University, and Tanya Hawes, Program Co-ordinator/ Psychologist, Griffith University

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

Read More........→July 01, 2026

Frozen fruit and canned veg are cheap, but are they as healthy as fresh food?

Margaret Murray, Swinburne University of Technology

You probably know fruit and vegetables are good for you, and most of us don’t eat enough of them.

But amid a cost-of-living crisis, buying more fresh food may not seem like a budget-friendly option.

Enter: canned or frozen fruit and veg.

These are usually cheaper and longer-lasting than fresh produce. But are they as healthy? Let’s unpack the research.

First, how much should we be aiming for?

Fruit and vegetables contain important vitamins, minerals and fibre. These support overall wellbeing and reduce the risk of illnesses, such as heart disease and some cancers.

The Australian Guide to Healthy Eating recommends adults eat at least two serves of fruit and five serves of vegetables every day. This includes frozen and canned options.

For example, ½ a cup of frozen broccoli or ½ a cup of canned beans equals one serve of vegetables. One cup of canned peaches or one cup of diced, frozen mango equals one serve of fruit.

Cheap, quick… and low waste?

Most canned and frozen fruits and vegetables are cheaper than fresh produce.

As they generally come pre-chopped and ready to cook, they also cut down on preparation time.

Produce that is canned or frozen also has a much longer shelf life than fresh options. This means they are available year-round, and are less likely to spoil and have to be thrown out.

What about nutrition?

Frozen and canned fruit or veg generally retains its original nutritional value – sometimes better than fresh produce.

For example, the nutritional value of most frozen and canned products is equivalent to fresh fruit and vegetables that have been in the fridge for a week.

But the process of preserving certain foods may actually increase their nutrient content. Apricots are one example, with frozen apricots having a much higher vitamin C content than fresh apricots. This is because vitamin C is used to help preserve the fruit.

Freezing uses low temperatures to delay food spoilage. Industrial freezing methods are effective at retaining the colour and textural qualities of fruit and vegetables, while also maintaining their nutritional content.

However, freezing may damage the structure of food if it causes ice crystals to develop. This can reduce the nutrient content of fruits and vegetables and make them mushy, especially if you thaw and re-freeze them.

Frozen fruits and vegetables are at risk of being contaminated with the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes, which can cause food poisoning. But cooking fruits or vegetables before eating them reduces this risk.

The canning process involves sterilising foods at high temperatures so they can be safely stored at room temperature for long periods. However, being exposed to high temperatures causes some nutrients in the food to break down, especially water-soluble vitamins such as vitamin C. But advances in canning technology are allowing the process to be done faster and at lower temperatures, meaning less nutrients are lost.

What to keep an eye on

There are some things to look out for when purchasing canned fruit or vegetables.

Canned vegetables can have a high salt content, so it’s best to choose products that say “no added salt”. You can also check the nutrition information panel and look for options with the lowest sodium content. Draining and rinsing canned veggies before eating them can also help reduce the amount of salt you eat.

For baked beans in sauce, the sauce may contain added sugar and salt. If you eat baked beans regularly, it’s worth finding a salt reduced option to help lower your sodium intake.

To help reduce your sugar consumption, choose canned fruit options that are canned in juice rather than syrup. Some may also say “no added sugar” on the package.

How to use them

Canned fruits can be eaten as a snack on their own, or with cereal or yoghurt. In many recipes you can often replace fresh fruit with frozen and canned options.

Frozen veggies are great for whipping up a quick meal. For example, frozen peas and edamame only need a few minutes to cook, so can be added last-minute to a stir-fry or stew.

Adding a tin of lentils, chickpeas or beans can bulk out a stew or pasta sauce, while boosting your fibre and protein intake. Given they are already cooked, you can also toss them into a salad that will keep you fuller for longer. Just remember to rinse them first.

For more inspiration, here are some recipe collections that revolve around:

• frozen vegetables
• canned beans
• canned fruits and vegetables
• frozen fruits.

What about dried fruit and veg?

Compared to tinned versions, dried beans, chickpeas and lentils – which are all excellent sources of fibre and protein – are even better value and also have a long shelf life. But they can take longer to prepare.

Depending on the product, dried beans, chickpeas and lentils may need soaking prior to cooking or may be ready to add straight to the pot. If in doubt, check the instructions on the back of the packet.

Dried fruits are not recommended as an everyday alternative to fresh, frozen or canned fruit. This is because drying makes them more highly concentrated in sugar. But you can enjoy them as an occasional snack.

Margaret Murray, Senior Lecturer, Nutrition, Swinburne University of Technology

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

Read More........→June 13, 2026

Healthy lifestyle can boost metabolic health even without weight loss: Study

IANS Photo

Jerusalem, (IANS) People can improve their health through dietary and lifestyle changes even if they do not lose weight, according to an international study.

The research, conducted by the universities of Ben-Gurion (Israel), Harvard (US), and Leipzig (Germany), focused on individuals described as "weight loss resistant" -- those who adopt healthy habits but struggle to shed pounds, Xinhua news agency reported.

“We have been conditioned to equate weight loss with health, and weight loss-resistant individuals are often labeled as failures,” said lead author Anat Yaskolka Meir, postdoctoral research fellow in the Department of Epidemiology at Harvard Chan School.

“Our findings reframe how we define clinical success. People who do not lose weight can improve their metabolism and reduce their long-term risk for disease. That’s a message of hope, not failure,” Meir added.

Published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, the study challenges the long-standing belief that weight loss is the primary sign of a successful diet. Researchers found that even participants who did not lose weight showed measurable improvements in key health indicators.

The study tracked 761 adults between 18 to 24 months. All participants followed lifestyle changes without taking supplements or medications and were assigned to healthy diets.

Participants also received free gym access and exercise guidance.

By the end of the trial, approximately one-third of the participants had not lost weight, despite closely following the programme.

However, they showed improvements in metabolic health, including higher levels of "good" HDL cholesterol, lower levels of leptin (a hormone primarily produced by fat cells), and reductions in abdominal fat, confirmed through MRI scans.

Researchers also identified 12 genetic markers that may influence whether a person is likely to lose weight through lifestyle changes, an insight that could help personalise future diet plans.The findings suggest that healthy eating and exercise can provide significant health benefits even without weight loss, including reduced risk of heart disease and diabetes, the researchers said. Healthy lifestyle can boost metabolic health even without weight loss: Study | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com

Read More........→June 12, 2026

Health Benefits of Spinach

Spinach (Spinacia oleracea) is a vigorously growing dioecious, erect biennial herb of the family Amaranthaceae. Though the herb is a native of South west Asia, today it is widely cultivated in North America, Europe and Asia. Spinach has a high nutritional value and is extremely rich in antioxidants, especially when fresh, steamed, or quickly boiled. Its leaves are rich in carbohydrates, proteins, fats, fibres, magnesium, manganese, folate, copper, zinc, niacin, selenium, sodium, potassium, sulphur, phosphorus and omega-3 fatty acids. It is also a rich source of vitamins A, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin E and vitamin K. Recently, opioid peptides, called rubicolins have also been found in spinach. Spinach contains 4 times more of beta-carotene and 3 times more of lutein than broccoli.

Spinach is said to be a protective food against Cancer. Consuming spinach in meals is said to inhibit tumor growth and keeps body normal from undergoing mutation. It is also known to be beneficial for those suffering from diabetes. Having half a cup of spinach leaves juice before meals twice daily is helpful in controlling diabetes. Owing to high Vitamin A content, the herb is protective against eye diseases. Anemic patients must consume this herb in diet as spinach is a good source of iron, and thus, prevents anemia. Because iron is a component of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to all body cells, it is also beneficial as energy food.

In conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, migraine headaches and asthma, spinach is helpful in combating the ailments owing to its anti-inflammatory properties. Another of the benefits of spinach is that it's good for the heart. In addition, folate is good for a healthy cardiovascular system. Its antioxidant vitamins help reduce free radicals in the body & maintain healthy cholesterol levels in the blood. Magnesium, another mineral found in spinach helps to lower high blood pressure (Hypertension). Spinach has a laxative effect and is wonderful in Weight loss diets. The Kitchen Clinic: Health Benefits of Spinach

Read More........→June 11, 2026

Even in Your 80s, Adopting a Healthier Lifestyle Can Add Years to Your Life

By david Griffiths

Adopting a healthier lifestyle can add years to your life—even in your 80s, according to new research from Japan.

Reducing drinking, not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and increasing sleep produce the biggest gains, say scientists.

They increased longevity by six years in healthy 40-year-olds. The benefits were even more prominent in those twice the age.

These gains applied also to individuals with life-threatening illnesses, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and kidney disease.

The study from Osaka University shows it is never too late to give up bad habits and shed the pounds, from middle age onwards. It was based on almost 50,000 people in Japan who were tracked for up to 20 years.

“This is a particularly important finding given the prevalence of chronic disease has increased globally,” said Senior author Professor Hiroyasu Iso.

The team says taking ownership of your health is key to a pleasurable retirement.

“Idioms and proverbs about the importance of maintaining good health span the ages. Many emphasize how closely health is tied to happiness and the opportunity to live a fulfilling and enjoyable life.”

The study, published in Age and Aging, found that healthy behaviors adopted over time have a marked effect on lifespan.

The researchers found that adopting five or more healthy lifestyle behaviors increased life expectancy even for individuals over 80 years old, and importantly, including those with chronic conditions. They saw results that were dependent on socioeconomic status, policies such as assisted access to healthcare, and lifestyle factors.

30 years ago, participants in The Japan Collaborate Cohort (JACC) Study filled in surveys that included questions about diet and exercise, alcohol consumption, smoking status, sleep duration, and BMI (body mass index). They were also asked about any illnesses.

The aim was to increase knowledge about what factors contribute to death from cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Points were awarded for each healthy behavior and the impact of modifying them on projected lifespan was assessed.

The project continued until December 2009, by which time nearly 9,000 individuals had died.

It is one of the first studies to measure the impact of improvements to health behavior among older individuals in a country with a national life expectancy achieving almost 85 years.

“The finding that lifestyle improvements has a positive impact on health despite chronic health conditions and older age is an empowering one, especially given the increasing prevalence of chronic conditions and longer life,” said lead author Dr. Ryoto Sakaniwa.

Two years ago a study found women can gain ten and men seven years of life free of cancer, heart problems, and type-2 diabetes from a healthy lifestyle. That research was based on 111,000 Americans tracked for more than 20 years.

Lead author Dr Frank Hu, of Harvard School of Public Health, in Boston, described the findings as “a positive message for the public”.“They gain not just more years of life but good years through improved lifestyle choices.” Even in Your 80s, Adopting a Healthier Lifestyle Can Add Years to Your Life

Read More........→June 05, 2026

Mental health needs compassion, not judgement

Photo Courtesy: Image by Rosy/Bad Homburg/Germany from Pixabay | For representational purpose only

Niutoli Tuccu

Licensed Rehabilitation Psychologist RCI

Mental health problems are becoming increasingly common, yet many people still fail to recognise the early signs of emotional distress. Anxiety, depression, panic attacks, and emotional exhaustion are often ignored until they begin affecting daily life. Mental and emotional distress can also appear through physical symptoms. Constant stress and anxiety may lead to psychosomatic problems such as headaches, body pain, fatigue, stomach discomfort, and sleep difficulties. Early awareness and emotional support are more important than ever.

According to data shared by the Nagaland Health and Family Welfare Department during World Mental Health Day observance in 2022, nearly 20,000 people in the state were estimated to be living with severe mental illness, while around 2 lakh people experienced mild to moderate psychological conditions that often remained unnoticed. National studies by NIMHANS during 2015 to 2016 highlighted rising levels of anxiety, depression, panic disorders, and stress related conditions across India.

As a mental health professional, I have personally witnessed a sharp rise in people seeking therapy and psychological support in recent years. While this reflects growing awareness, it is deeply painful to see how many individuals still suffer emotional neglect within their own homes. Even today, depression, panic attacks, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion are dismissed as “laziness” or “attention seeking behaviour.” Such responses do not help people heal. They silently worsen the suffering.

In Dimapur, it is heartbreaking to see some individuals with untreated mental illness wandering the streets without care, support, or protection. Society is becoming emotionally distant. We speak about progress, yet many vulnerable people continue to suffer in silence around us. Mental illness is not only a medical issue. It is also a human and social responsibility.

Mental illness does not always appear in obvious ways. Many people continue their daily routines while struggling internally. Some common warning signs include:

1. Constant overthinking and excessive worry

2. Emotional numbness or persistent sadness

3. Irritability, panic attacks, or emotional exhaustion

4. Social withdrawal and avoiding people

5. Disturbed sleep and loss of motivation

6. Difficulty concentrating or managing stress

Simple ways to support your Mental Health:

1. Recognise early emotional changes and seek support early

2. Practice slow breathing and grounding techniques during anxiety or panic attacks

3. Avoid suppressing emotions or isolating yourself for long periods

4. Reduce overstimulation from excessive social media and negativity

5. Maintain proper sleep, food intake, hydration, and daily routines

6. Seek professional psychological help before symptoms become disabling

7. Create emotionally safe families and communities where people feel heard instead of judged

The 2026 Mental Health Awareness Month theme, “More Good Days, Together,” reminds us that healing becomes easier when people feel supported rather than judged. Mental health awareness should not remain limited to speeches, campaigns, or social media discussions alone. It should also be reflected in the way we listen, speak, and respond to one another in everyday life.Most importantly, asking for psychological support is not a sign of weakness. It is a sign of self awareness, emotional strength, and courage. Many people around us are carrying silent psychological struggles, not drama. A little kindness and understanding can sometimes help more than we realise. Mental health needs compassion, not judgement | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com

Read More........→May 29, 2026

Is dark chocolate healthier than milk chocolate? 2 dietitians explain

 

Alexander Grey/Unsplash

Lauren Ball, The University of Queensland and Emily Burch, Southern Cross University

Easter chocolate is all over supermarket shelves. Some people reach straight for milk chocolate eggs while others pause at the darker varieties, assuming they’re healthier.

Dark chocolate has gained a reputation as the “better” choice because it usually contains more cocoa and less sugar than milk chocolate.

But is dark chocolate actually healthier?

Let’s see how the evidence stacks up.

How do they compare?

All chocolate begins with the cocoa (or cacao) bean. Cocoa beans are the seeds of the Theobroma cacao tree, a tropical plant native to Central and South America.

Processing the bean gives you cocoa solids (the bitter part) and cocoa butter (the fat part that gives chocolate its smooth texture).

Chocolate is made from cocoa solids, cocoa butter and sugar. Milk chocolate also contains milk powder or condensed milk.

Dark chocolate typically contains a much higher proportion of cocoa solids, usually 50–90%.

Milk chocolate generally contains 20–30% cocoa solids, with the remaining bulk made up of milk ingredients and sugar.

How about nutritional benefits?

Because dark chocolate contains more cocoa solids than milk chocolate, it naturally provides slightly higher amounts of certain minerals.

This table shows the differences between milk chocolate (30% cocoa) and dark chocolate (more than 60% cocoa) per 20-gram serve. That’s about one row of a Lindt chocolate block.

As you can see, dark chocolate provides more minerals such as magnesium, iron and zinc. It also contains noticeably more caffeine (but far less than in a typical cup of coffee, which would contain about 100mg).

Milk chocolate offers significantly more calcium due to its milk solids, but it generally contains more added sugar.

Cocoa is naturally rich in plant compounds called polyphenols. These act as antioxidants in the body, helping to protect the body’s cells from damage.

Because dark chocolate contains more cocoa, it naturally contains higher levels of these compounds. In fact, dark chocolate contains roughly five times more flavanols (a type of polyphenol) than milk chocolate.

Compared to other foods often praised for their antioxidant content, cocoa contains around 17 times more catechins (another type of polyphenol) per serving than black tea. It also contains around three times more than red wine.

Does dark chocolate improve your health?

Research into cocoa and dark chocolate has produced some interesting findings, particularly about heart health.

Cocoa flavanols appear to help blood vessels relax and support better blood flow. Some clinical trials have reported small reductions in blood pressure and improvements in measures of blood vessel function after consuming cocoa products.

There is also broader evidence suggesting diets rich in flavanols may be linked with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease overall.

However, these findings come with important caveats.

Many of these trials use cocoa extracts containing high levels of flavanols. Others contain specially formulated chocolate rather than the typical chocolate bars or Easter eggs you’d find in supermarkets. The doses tested are also often far larger and far more concentrated than what people normally consume.

A large umbrella review (a review of reviews) involving more than one million participants did find links between eating chocolate and lower risks of cardiovascular disease, stroke and diabetes.

But the overall quality of evidence was rated as weak or very low, largely because many of the studies were observational. Observational studies can identify patterns, but they cannot prove chocolate itself caused those benefits.

The bottom line is that cocoa does contain beneficial plant compounds but the chocolate most of us enjoy is not a health supplement.

But I thought dark chocolate has less sugar?

Choosing dark chocolate doesn’t automatically make it the healthier option, especially where sugar is concerned. Some dark chocolate contains surprisingly high amounts.

Depending on the cocoa percentage and recipe, some dark chocolate products contain 40–50% sugar.

So a 150g dark chocolate Easter bunny containing 50% sugar, for example, can contain about 19 teaspoons of added sugar.

This applies to Easter eggs too. Some dark chocolate Easter eggs sold in supermarkets still list sugar as one of their first and main ingredients, ahead of cocoa butter. This means sugar makes up a significant chunk of what you’re eating.

So it’s always worth flipping the packet over and checking the ingredients list and nutritional panel to be sure.

What to choose this Easter?

Dark chocolate has a nutritional advantage over milk chocolate. But how much depends on the cocoa percentage and how it’s been made.

As a general rule, aim for 70% cocoa or more, and flip the packet over before you buy. In a higher-quality dark chocolate, cocoa should appear first in the ingredients list – not sugar.

A higher-quality dark chocolate might have its ingredients listed in this order: cocoa mass, cocoa powder, cocoa butter, sugar, vanilla.

A lower-quality dark chocolate might look like this: sugar, cocoa mass, cocoa butter, emulsifiers, flavour, milk solids.

If sugar is listed first, it’s the largest ingredient by weight.

Beyond that, choose chocolate you actually enjoy and watch your portion size. Remember that your overall diet matters far more than a few Easter eggs.

The real health benefit of Easter chocolate? The enjoyment of sharing it.

Lauren Ball, Professor of Community Health and Wellbeing, The University of Queensland and Emily Burch, Accredited Practising Dietitian and Lecturer, Southern Cross University

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

Read More........→May 27, 2026

Police Deputy Praised After 'Run-of-the-Mill' Call Turns into Emergency Baby Delivery

Rancho Cordova police deputies deliver baby (Released)

A call about suspicious activity saw a California police officer race to save a newborn’s life.

A woman was sitting between two bushes near a business in the Rancho Cordova, and Deputy Foster Tracy described the situation as “routine,” before it became anything but.

“It was zero to a hundred really fast. It was one of those calls you go to, run-of-the-mill,” Deputy Foster Tracy said. “This was definitely not something that I was prepared for at any part of the day.”

“‘Excuse me?'” Tracy remembers saying, as it didn’t really register, “‘you’re having a baby?'”

Indeed, the woman had been begging for help for “hours,” CBS News reported.

Calling for medical backup, Tracy got down on his knees and went to work as he realized there wasn’t time to waste: the baby’s head was already out.

Tracy’s partner arrived moments later and they both saw the problem as the umbilical cord was wrapped around the baby’s neck. “I was concerned the baby was deceased because it was purple and blue.”

Yet their persistence was rewarded with a healthy baby and a relieved mother, who were both taken to the hospital to recover from the ordeal.The deputies have been credited with a life-saving intervention, and were praised by the mom, the police chief, and the surprised shop owners whose call had inadvertently saved a life. Police Deputy Praised After 'Run-of-the-Mill' Call Turns into Emergency Baby Delivery

Read More........→May 27, 2026

Why do I wake up so tired after vivid dreams?

Yaqoot Fatima, University of the Sunshine Coast; Danielle Wilson, University of the Sunshine Coast, and Nisreen Aouira, University of the Sunshine Coast

Some mornings when you wake up, your head is fuzzy, your body is heavy, and you don’t feel rested. It felt like you were dreaming all night.

But did all that dreaming actually wear you out? Let’s look at what the science says.

We all dream, but not everyone remembers it

Most dreaming occurs during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, which makes up 20–25% of our total sleep time.

We have four to six rounds of REM throughout the night, with each round growing longer as morning approaches. We all dream, and most of us dream multiple times a night, whether we remember it or not.

If you wake up during or just after a REM period, you are more likely to remember what you were dreaming.

Whether you remember a dream can also depend on the emotional intensity of the dream and whether you briefly wake up in the night, as well as differences in how individual brains store memories overnight.

People who regularly remember vivid, emotionally intense dreams tend to have lighter, more broken sleep.

What happens in your brain when you dream?

During REM sleep, your brain is running almost as hard as it does when you are awake, firing away, while your body lies completely still. Your muscles are essentially paralysed, which stops you acting out what’s happening in the dream.

At the same time, the parts of the brain that handle emotion – the amygdala, hippocampus and thalamus – are highly active. The prefrontal cortex, which normally keeps things rational and logical, is much less engaged.

So you get vivid, emotionally charged experiences that feel completely real but make no logical sense. That part is normal.

How long do dreams last? And are we any good at judging?

Most people assume dreams are brief, fragmented flashes.

In fact, the evidence suggests otherwise. REM sleep dreams appear to unfold roughly in real time.

When researchers have woken people from REM sleep and asked them to describe their dream, the length of their account closely matches the duration spent in the dreaming stage of sleep (REM episode). A dream that feels like 20 minutes was probably about that long in real life.

Where people go wrong is estimating how much of the whole night they spent dreaming. A stressful or vivid dream feels longer and stays with you. A dull one vanishes before you even open your eyes.

On top of that, we mostly remember dreams we actually woke up during.

Someone who was sure they dreamed all night probably had a completely normal night of REM sleep. They just happened to wake during the emotionally charged parts, and those are the ones that stuck.

So does dreaming itself actually tire you out?

During REM sleep, your brain isn’t resting in the way deep sleep allows. Even so, brain imaging studies suggest this energy use alone doesn’t account for the fatigue people feel after a heavy night of dreaming.

Dreaming on its own does not seem to impact your sleep quality unless it tips into nightmares.

The more straightforward explanation is this: if you remember a dream, you almost certainly woke up during it. Those wake-ups, even the ones you barely register, take time away from deep sleep.

These wake-ups also give the brain less opportunity to clear a waste product called adenosine. During the day, adenosine builds up in the brain. As it accumulates, the pressure to sleep grows. One of sleep’s main jobs is to flush this out, and it does that most effectively during deep sleep. Wake up before it’s done and you might find yourself more tired the next day.

Waking from REM sleep is also harder on the body than waking from lighter stages. It can produce sleep inertia, that thick, foggy state in which your brain refuses to come online. The tiredness is not a consequence of dreaming: it’s a consequence of when you woke up and what stage you were pulled from.

Consider the quality of your sleep

When sleep is cut short or is repeatedly broken, the brain makes up for lost REM time on subsequent nights, spending a higher proportion of sleep in that stage. This is called REM rebound.

REM rebound is a compensatory response rather than a problem in itself. The actual problem is whatever is causing the sleep disruption.

If you regularly remember most of your dreams, feel like the number of dreams you have has increased, or find yourself waking up tired most mornings, your fragmented sleep may mean the brain isn’t getting the deep, restorative stages it needs.

If this describes you, and it affects how you feel and function through the day, it’s worth having a conversation with your doctor.

Yaqoot Fatima, Professor of Sleep Health, University of the Sunshine Coast; Danielle Wilson, Research Fellow and Sleep Scientist at the Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, and Nisreen Aouira, Research Program Manager, Let's Yarn About Sleep, Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

Read More........→May 26, 2026

Lifestyle changes, intake of ultra-processed foods driving obesity at alarming rate: Eco Survey

IANS Photo

New Delhi, (IANS): Obesity is rising at an alarming rate and is today a major public health challenge in India, said Economic Survey for 2025-26 on Thursday.

According to the Economic Survey, tabled in the Parliament by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the concerning trend was driven by unhealthy diets, lifestyle changes, including sedentary lifestyles, increased consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs), and environmental factors.

“It is affecting people across all age groups and increasing the risk of NCDs such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension, impacting both urban and rural populations,” the Survey said.

Citing data from the 2019-21 National Family Health Survey (NFHS), the Survey said that 24 per cent of Indian women and 23 per cent of Indian men are overweight or obese. Among women aged 15-49 years, 6.4 per cent are obese, and among men, 4.0 per cent are obese. The prevalence of excess weight among children under five has risen from 2.1 per cent in 2015-16 to 3.4 per cent in 2019-21.

As per estimates, more than 3.3 crore children in India were obese in 2020, and it is projected to reach 8.3 crore children by 2035.

The Economic Survey also flagged concern over the rising UPF market in the country, which is displacing long-established dietary patterns, worsening diet quality, and is associated with increased risk of multiple chronic diseases.

“India is one of the fastest-growing markets for UPF sales. It grew by more than 150 per cent from 2009 to 2023. Retail sales of UPFs in India surged from $0.9 billion in 2006 to nearly $38 billion in 2019, a 40-fold rise. It is during the same period that obesity has nearly doubled in both men and women. This mirrors the global rise of obesity, parallel to dietary shifts,” it said.

“The rising use of UPFs imposes a substantial economic cost through higher healthcare spending, lost productivity, and long-term fiscal strain,” it added.

The Survey also cited comprehensive, multi-pronged initiatives launched by the government to prevent, manage, and reduce obesity in the country.

The interventions include POSHAN Abhiyaan & Poshan 2.0, Fit India Movement, Khelo India, Eat Right India, Nationwide Awareness Campaign - ‘Aaj Se Thoda Kam’ and AAMs, the School Health Programme, and Yoga promotion.These aim to promote a holistic approach that integrates health, nutrition, physical activity, food safety, and lifestyle modifications and continue to advance the goal of a healthier, stronger, and obesity-free India. Lifestyle changes, intake of ultra-processed foods driving obesity at alarming rate: Eco Survey | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com

Read More........→April 27, 2026

‘Cuddle therapy’ sounds like what we all need right now. But will it actually help?

Glen Hosking, La Trobe University

Cuddle therapy is having a moment. The idea for this emerging therapy is for you to book in a specified time with a “professional cuddler”.

Websites promote cuddle therapists as specialists in platonic touch, offering a service to people who wish to cuddle for friendship, to relax or manage emotional challenges.

The aim is to find connection and improve your mental health and wellbeing.

But does it actually work?

Here’s what you need to think about before booking in.

What is cuddle therapy?

Cuddle therapists offer consensual, non-sexual cuddles in a structured and safe environment, designed to be free from criticism, bias, conflict and any behaviour or conversation that may feel unsafe or threatening.

Cuddle therapists are not official or regulated professionals. There do not appear to be any accredited training programs or professional bodies that oversee and regulate cuddle therapy.

However, there are numerous people who promote themselves as professional cuddlers, and whose services are said to offer a range of psychological and physiological benefits.

These include reductions in depression, anxiety and loneliness, improvements in social skills and immune functioning, lowered blood pressure and a decreased risk of heart disease.

Providers suggest cuddle therapy can also lessen symptoms of post‑traumatic stress disorder, enhance a person’s capacity to recover from experiences of sexual or physical abuse, and reduce cravings associated with substance use.

Comforting claims, sparse science

Despite such claims, there do not appear to be any published peer‑reviewed studies that directly examine the psychological or physiological effects of engaging a professional cuddler.

There is, however, a broader body of research exploring the benefits of non‑sexual physical touch, including hugging and gentle, sustained contact.

Such touch has been associated with reductions in daily stress and improvements in overall wellbeing. Physical touch has also been identified as a way of conveying empathy, social bonding, and care.

Most of this research focuses on touch in close relationships – such as with partners, parents or friends – rather than touch delivered by a practitioner as part of a paid service. So, we don’t know if these findings translate to cuddle therapy.

There are however, known impacts of physical touch, including prompting the release of the hormone oxytocin. Oxytocin interacts with other neurochemicals, most notably dopamine, which supports feelings of comfort and connection.

Together, these neurochemical responses help explain why sustained touch can have a calming and soothing effect.

Professional cuddles need professional boundaries

Because cuddle therapy involves physical touch, emotional vulnerability and power dynamics between therapist and client, it raises a number of important ethical and professional issues.

1. Provide informed consent

If you’re thinking about cuddle therapy, ask what the service does and does not involve. Get a clear explanation about the boundaries of the service, where touch is and is not permitted, and the structure of the session.

You’ll need to provide explicit and informed consent before proceeding, and you can withdraw consent at any time.

2. Professional boundaries must be clear

A cuddle therapy relationship should remain professional at all times.

It is not OK for your cuddle therapist to express personal or romantic interest, or that the connection is becoming “special” or exclusive in ways that go beyond the agreed‑upon service.

Likewise, a practitioner should never pressure you to share personal information or disclose more than you are comfortable with.

Maintaining firm boundaries helps ensure the interaction remains safe, respectful and centred on your wellbeing rather than blurring into a personal relationship.

3. Watch you’re not becoming dependent

You may seek cuddle therapy because you are vulnerable, including but not limited to being lonely, depressed or in emotional pain. It is understandable that a touch‑based session may help you feel cared for, grounded or safe in the moment.

However, you should also watch for signs you are becoming dependent on a practitioner for emotional stability or comfort. This might include believing you can only feel calm, safe or OK after seeing that specific practitioner or wanting increasing contact or more cuddle therapy sessions.

4. It’s no cure for complex issues

Similarly, while cuddle therapy can offer temporary relief and a sense of connection, it is not designed to resolve underlying psychological issues or replace professional mental health care.

So cuddle therapy should be viewed as a supportive experience, but not a cure for broader or more complex emotional challenges.

Key takeaways

Taken together, cuddle therapy is an emerging practice centred on consensual, non‑sexual physical touch delivered in a structured environment. It’s promoted online as a way to reduce distress and enhance emotional wellbeing.

Cuddle therapy remains unregulated, with no formal training pathways or governing bodies overseeing professional standards. So service providers, rather than empirical evidence, largely shape public information about cuddle therapy.

Evidence suggests a range of benefits of physical touch. However, if you do pursue cuddle therapy you should ensure there are clear boundaries, you provide informed consent, and know you can withdraw that consent at any time.

Glen Hosking, Clinical Psychologist and Associate Professor of Psychology, La Trobe University

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

Read More........→April 01, 2026