A new coronavirus strain, designated as NB.1.8.1, is rapidly spreading across several countries, including three popular tourist destinations, prompting the World Health Organization (WHO) to issue an official warning.

Experts warn that this strain may spread faster and more easily than previous variants.

According to the WHO, the new strain accounts for more than 10 percent of all infections and is currently classified as a "variant under monitoring" due to the sharp rise in cases.

Mutated Virus NB.1.8.1 Infects Cells More Efficiently

By the end of April 2025, NB.1.8.1 accounted for about 10.7% of all reported virus sequences – a significant increase from just 2.5% four weeks earlier. This variant is already dominant in Hong Kong and China.

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Lara Herero, associate professor and head of research in virology and infectious diseases at Griffith University, states that the NB.1.8.1 strain can infect cells more efficiently due to multiple mutations compared to earlier strains.

"It is possible that a person infected with the NB.1.8.1 strain is more likely to transmit the virus to another person compared to earlier variants," says Professor Herero.

Current data suggest that this strain spreads more easily and may partially evade immunity from previous infections or vaccination. This could explain its rapid rise in genetic analyses.

However, it is important to emphasize that the WHO has so far not found evidence that NB.1.8.1 causes more severe clinical symptoms compared to earlier variants. Symptoms are generally similar to those of other Omicron subvariants.

Most Commonly Reported Symptoms:

• sore throat
• fatigue
• fever
• mild cough
• muscle pain
• nasal congestion

In some cases, gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or diarrhea may also occur.

In addition to China and Hong Kong, a rise in cases has been recorded in Cambodia and Singapore, and the virus has also been detected in Australia, the United States, and potentially the United Kingdom.

The WHO urges countries to remain vigilant and adapt to changes in the epidemiological situation by using COVID-19 management strategies to strengthen protection systems against all respiratory diseases. Member states are encouraged to continue vaccinations in accordance with current guidelines.

The WHO also emphasizes that, based on the current risk assessment, the introduction of travel and trade restrictions is not recommended.

Coffee has numerous health benefits. Most of these positive effects come “thanks to the high caffeine content, a psychoactive or psychostimulant substance that can influence various processes and functions, both cognitive and physical,” says renowned cardiologist Dr. Aurelio Rojas.

There are also other important effects. Long-term studies show that regular coffee consumption is associated with a longer lifespan.

However, most people don’t drink coffee for its health benefits, but because it helps them wake up in the morning or when their energy levels drop during the day. That’s because coffee is considered a metabolic activator that acts similarly (with some limitations) to well-known neurotransmitters like dopamine and adrenaline – writes Nova.

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Famous Cardiology Trick

The caffeine in coffee is a very powerful substance, but for some people, it’s still not enough, so they look for additional ways to get more energy. For such individuals, Dr. Aurelio Rojas, a cardiologist at the Regional University Hospital in Malaga, suggests a trick: add 100% pure cocoa powder to natural coffee.

This provides an extra amount of caffeine, as cocoa also contains caffeine. However, “the amount of caffeine in cocoa depends on the type and quantity of cocoa or chocolate consumed.” For example, “a single piece of pure dark chocolate can contain up to 20 milligrams of caffeine.”

That’s not all. According to the cardiologist, the benefits of adding 100% cocoa powder to coffee are as follows:

Gives extra energy
Increases the feeling of fullness
Reduces the need for sugar intake during the day
Has anti-inflammatory effects on the heart and blood vessels
Stimulates the production of stem cells
Strengthens the immune system

If hair loss is more pronounced or lasts longer than a few months, it would be wise to get blood tests: ferritin, vitamin D, B12, TSH (thyroid gland), and a complete blood count.

Thick and healthy hair, especially as we age, largely depends on nutrition, particularly vitamins. Therefore, if you lack certain vitamins, you may experience increased hair loss, reports Sombor.info.

Here Are the Vitamins You Should Replenish in That Case:

Vitamin D – Its deficiency is often linked to alopecia (hair loss), as it is important for hair follicles.

Vitamin B7 (Biotin) – Essential for hair growth; a deficiency can lead to increased hair loss and brittleness.

Vitamin B12 – Affects the health of red blood cells and oxygen delivery to hair follicles. Deficiency can result in hair thinning.

Iron – Deficiency (often in the form of anemia) is one of the most common causes of hair loss in women.

Zinc – A deficiency can lead to hair loss and poor growth.

Vitamin A – Both too much and too little of this vitamin can lead to hair problems.

Vitamin E – Acts as an antioxidant and supports scalp health.

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To accurately determine your vitamin status, it’s best to get a blood test and consult with a doctor or nutritionist before taking supplements. Vitamins and minerals important for hair health can be replenished in three main ways: through diet, supplements, and proper care. Here's how:

Dietary Sources

Vitamin D

• Sunlight (15–20 minutes daily)
• Fatty fish (salmon, sardines, tuna)
• Eggs (yolk)
• Mushrooms (especially those exposed to UV light)

Biotin (Vitamin B7)

• Eggs (cooked, as raw eggs can bind biotin)
• Nuts (almonds, walnuts)
• Bananas, avocado
• Sweet potatoes

Vitamin B12

• Meat, fish, eggs
• Dairy products
• For vegetarians: supplementation or fortified products (e.g., plant-based milks with added B12)

Iron

• Red meat, liver
• Spinach, lentils, beets
• Pair plant-based iron sources with vitamin C (e.g., lemon, peppers) to enhance absorption

Zinc

• Pumpkin seeds, sesame, chickpeas
• Meat, seafood

Vitamin A

• Carrots, sweet potatoes, dark green leafy vegetables
• Liver (in moderation)

Vitamin E

• Nuts, sunflower seeds
• Vegetable oils (sunflower, olive)
• Avocado

Supplements

Multivitamins specially formulated for hair, skin, and nails often contain B-complex vitamins, zinc, biotin, and vitamin D. Biotin is commonly used in doses of 1000–5000 mcg daily but is not suitable for everyone. Take supplements only on medical advice, as excessive intake of vitamins (especially A and D) can be harmful.

Hair Care as Additional Support

Masks and serums with oils rich in vitamins (argan, castor, coconut oil)

Mild

Lemon water in the morning has become a daily ritual for millions of people around the world, especially among those who want to detox, lose weight, or boost their immunity.

But does lemon water truly have such a powerful effect, or is it just another trend without scientific backing?

Nutritionists point out that lemon water can have beneficial effects – provided it is consumed the right way.

Lemon is rich in vitamin C, stimulates the digestive tract, and may contribute to better hydration. However, it is not a “magic wand,” and its power is often exaggerated. Regularly drinking warm lemon water may help regulate digestion, reduce bloating, and support better liver function.

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Additionally, the acidic environment it creates in the stomach may speed up food breakdown. Still, it’s important to be mindful of your teeth – acids can damage enamel, so it is recommended to drink the beverage through a straw.

Lemon water can be a helpful habit, but only as part of a broader healthy lifestyle. If you expect miraculous results without changing your diet and physical activity – disappointment is inevitable.

The real power is not in the lemon, but in consistency and making healthy choices every day.

Hungry and Tired Despite a Healthy Diet?

You might be lacking protein. Dr. Mark Hyman explains why this key nutrient is essential for energy, satiety, and health.

Renowned health, fitness, and nutrition expert, Dr. Mark Hyman, emphasizes that feelings of exhaustion or constant hunger, even in people who eat healthily, may indicate a protein deficiency. This essential dietary component is crucial for muscle repair, hormone production, and as an energy source.

A lack of protein can make you weak, more prone to infections, and even lead to stress fractures. Additionally, as Dr. Hyman explains, it can cause a constant feeling of hunger and low energy levels.

"If you’re often hungry or tired, even though you follow a healthy diet, your body might be lacking sufficient protein – a nutrient that regulates appetite, stabilizes blood glucose levels, and supports brain function," says Dr. Hyman – reports ljepotaizdravlje.hr.

How Much Protein Do We Actually Need?

According to recommendations, women should consume about 45 grams of protein daily, while men should aim for around 55.5 grams. However, many experts believe these amounts are often too low, especially for people recovering from illness or injury.

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Dr. Hyman suggests that an intake of 30 grams of protein per meal can make a big difference:

"When you consume 30 g of protein with each meal, the feeling of fullness lasts longer, snack cravings decrease, and your body gets everything it needs to strengthen muscles, stabilize blood sugar levels, and support mental health."

"Moreover, research shows that this amount stimulates the production of hormones that control appetite and contribute to feelings of energy and focus. Gradually increasing protein intake can help you adopt healthier habits more easily, making a healthy diet more sustainable and manageable."

If you’re not yet including protein in every meal, Dr. Hyman advises starting slowly, adjusting the intake to your abilities, and gradually increasing the amount.

"It’s important to start from your current routine and build it step by step," concludes Dr. Hyman.

When experts recommend diets for healthier aging, heart health, or reducing the risk of cancer and chronic diseases, they often emphasize the importance of fruits and vegetables, legumes, and lean protein sources such as chicken and fish.

Although dietary guidelines are increasingly leaning towards plant-based nutrition, chicken is still considered a healthier option among meats. However, a new study published in the journal Nutrients suggests that chicken may not be as healthy as previously thought, reports Index.hr.

Scientists examined the link between poultry consumption, gastrointestinal cancers, and the risk of premature death. Poultry included chicken, turkey, duck, and wild birds such as quail and pheasant.

By analyzing data from 4,869 middle-aged Italians over 19 years, who completed questionnaires about their dietary habits, it was found that individuals who died from gastrointestinal cancers—such as colorectal, liver, pancreatic, stomach, esophageal, and rectal cancer—had the highest level of white meat consumption, with poultry accounting for 33% of total meat intake.

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People who consumed more than 300 grams of poultry per week, roughly equivalent to three and a half 85-gram servings, had a 27% higher risk of death from any cause. For men, that risk was as high as 61%. When focusing solely on the risk of gastrointestinal cancer, a weekly intake of 100 to 200 grams of poultry was associated with a 65% increased risk of death, while those who consumed more than 300 grams per week faced a 127% higher risk—and for men, even 161%.

How Much Chicken Is Too Much?

According to this study—the less, the better. The results indicate that poultry intake should be kept below 300 grams per week.

"Our results show that consumption exceeding 100 grams of poultry per week is associated with an increased overall risk of death, particularly from gastrointestinal cancers," the authors note. The risk increased proportionally with the amount of poultry consumed, and the effects were even more pronounced in individuals who also consumed more red meat.

Participants over the age of 83 who ate less than 100 grams of poultry per week had half the risk of dying from gastrointestinal cancer compared to those who ate more.

The Method of Preparation Also Matters

Scientists emphasized that the way poultry is prepared can affect health. Chicken cooked at high temperatures, such as grilling, or cooked for extended periods, can create compounds that damage DNA and potentially increase the risk of digestive system cancers.

Pay Attention to Total Meat Consumption

Researchers found that the total amount of meat an individual consumes plays a significant role in increasing the risk of death, even for those following a Mediterranean diet.

Among participants who died from other types of cancer, red meat accounted for more than 65% of total meat intake, compared to 56% and 58% in those who died from gastrointestinal cancer or other causes. More than half of cancer-related deaths were recorded in individuals who consumed more than 400 grams of meat per week, even with a Mediterranean diet.

"We believe it is beneficial to consume poultry in moderation and occasionally replace it with other valuable protein sources, such as fish," the authors conclude. "It is also crucial to pay attention to food preparation methods and avoid high temperatures and prolonged cooking."

In today's fast-paced and often stressful world, the battle with insomnia is becoming an increasingly common problem. But don’t worry – this is not another boring story about counting sheep. Dive with me into the world of nocturnal adventures and discover the secrets of defeating the sleepless dragon!

Timing is Everything: Sleep Rhythm as the Orchestra Conductor

Did you know that our internal clocks not only tell us when it's time to eat or sleep but also conduct an entire orchestra of hormones and bodily functions? That’s why regular sleep is more important than you might think. Imagine going to bed and waking up at the same time every day – even on weekends. Your internal clock will thank you, and you’ll fall asleep more easily.

Bedroom: Your Personal Oasis of Peaceful Sleep

Your bedroom should be like an oasis of peace. Dark curtains, a calm atmosphere, and a pleasant temperature are essential. High-quality mattresses play a crucial role in healthy sleep. Investing in a good mattress and pillows is not a waste of money but an investment in your health.

Digital Detox: Banish the Blue Light

Did you know that blue light from device screens can disrupt your sleep cycle? An hour before bedtime, turn off all devices and engage in relaxing activities. Maybe it’s time to dust off that book you’ve been meaning to read?

Physical Activity: The Secret Ingredient for Peaceful Sleep

Regular exercise is like a magic potion for a good night’s sleep. But be careful – exercising right before bed can have the opposite effect. Plan your workouts earlier in the day.

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Nutrition: The Secret of the Evening Kitchen

Heavy and spicy food, caffeine, and alcohol before bed? No, thank you. Instead, a light dinner and herbal teas can be your allies in the fight against insomnia.

Mental Hygiene: Relaxing the Mind

Have you tried meditation, deep breathing, or gentle yoga before bed? These techniques can be extremely helpful for relaxing the mind and body. A psychologically rich life is a prerequisite for happiness and health.

If All Else Fails: Seek Professional Help

Insomnia can be a symptom of something more serious. If nothing helps, it’s time to see a doctor.

How to Overcome Insomnia – Conclusion

Remember, the battle with insomnia is not a marathon but a series of small steps leading to the goal – a peaceful and refreshing sleep. Now that you know all these secrets, you’re ready to embark on a journey to the land of dreams. Good luck and good night!

Ozempic has become synonymous with rapid weight loss and blood sugar regulation, but scientists are now investigating whether nature offers a similar solution.

Is Ozempic Getting Competition?

Ozempic, a drug that mimics the action of the GLP-1 hormone, might soon face competition in the form of a gut bacterium.

A new lead in the fight against diabetes and sugar addiction comes from – the gut.

Researchers from the Chinese university Jiangnan believe they have discovered a way to naturally regulate blood sugar levels and reduce sugar cravings – similar to how Ozempic and related drugs work, reports Science Alert, cited by Nova.rs.

The key to this potential therapy lies in the gut microbiota, specifically in a certain bacterium and the substances it produces during digestion. By increasing the presence of this bacterium in diabetic mice, scientists managed to stimulate the secretion of GLP-1 hormone, which naturally regulates blood sugar levels and satiety.

This hormone – glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) – is already known to the public as the basis of drugs like semaglutide, the main active ingredient of Ozempic.

In people with type 2 diabetes, the function of the GLP-1 hormone is often impaired, making blood sugar control more difficult. That is why GLP-1 analogs, like Ozempic, have become an important tool in treating this disease. However, scientists are now seeking ways to encourage the body to naturally boost its own production of this hormone.

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“A growing body of research suggests that our eating habits and cravings originate from signals sent by the gut system – an organ crucial for forming dietary preferences,” say the authors of a study published in January.

But which genes, microorganisms, and their substances actually regulate the desire for sugar has remained unclear until now.

The new research highlights the bacterium Bacteroides vulgatus as a potentially important player. Specifically, when mice were genetically prevented from producing the gut protein Ffar4, colonies of this bacterium significantly decreased, which also affected the lower levels of the hormone FGF21 – believed to be associated with sugar cravings.

Interestingly, FGF21 levels also increase with the use of GLP-1 drugs, and people with a genetic variation of this hormone are more prone to sugar cravings.

Blood analysis of 60 people with diabetes and 24 healthy individuals showed that mutations in the Ffar4 gene, which reduce FGF21 secretion, may be linked to increased sugar cravings – potentially contributing to the development of the disease.

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The key to this entire puzzle, it seems, lies once again in the gut. When scientists gave mice a metabolite produced by B. vulgatus, it led to increased secretion of GLP-1 and subsequently FGF21 hormones – resulting in better sugar regulation and reduced sugar cravings.

Although this effect has so far only been confirmed in mice, the authors believe they are on the trail of a diabetes prevention strategy – without the need for medications.