It seems like microplastics are everywhere these days — but their impacts on human health remain unclear. Today we take a closer look at why that is and how scientists are trying to get a clearer picture.
health
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Looking for life purpose? Start with building social ties
Research shows that having a sense of purpose can lower stress levels and boost our mental health. Finding meaning may not have to be an ambitious project.
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Measles is spreading fast in S.C. Here’s what it says about vaccine exemptions
More than 550 people have contracted measles in Spartanburg County, S.C., in a fast-growing outbreak. Like a majority of U.S. counties, nonmedical exemptions to school vaccination are also rising.
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RFK Jr.’s new food pyramid puts meat, cheese and vegetables at the top
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has announced new dietary guidelines for Americans focused on promoting whole foods, healthy proteins and fats. And he’s ‘declared war’ on sugar.
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Flu cases are surging and rates will likely get worse, new CDC data shows
Flu season is off to a rough start this year, according to new CDC data. The virus is spreading faster than in previous years and the surge is likely to get worse. Here’s what you need to know.
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Beware the Christmas coronary. How to spot signs of holiday heart trouble
There’s lots of data to show cardiac troubles spike during the holidays amid the mix of merrymaking, travel and stress. But there are ways to spot the signs of trouble before it’s too late.
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Does one drink make you dizzy? Why alcohol hits us harder as we age
For many people, the holidays mean more parties and more occasions to drink. But if you’ve noticed that one cocktail hits you harder than it used to, there’s a scientific reason to explain it.
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From ChatGPT to strength training: Here’s how 100-year-olds are thriving
A new survey of centenarians finds a growing number of people living to 100 have prioritized healthy habits. Here’s how exercise, social connection and positivity play a role in aging well.
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People want to avoid ultra-processed foods. But experts struggle to define them
The evidence that ultra-processed foods are bad for us is piling up. But efforts to reduce their role in our diets face a big hurdle: experts can’t agree on what they are and which to target.
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To optimize health, sync your habits with your body clock. Here’s how
Scientists say the return to “standard time” is good for our health. But the time change can be disruptive and we must also adjust to more winter darkness. Syncing our habits to our body clock helps.
