Society

Laughing gas may explain why Earth's oceans didn't freeze over during the so-called Boring Billion, between 1.8 billion and 800 million years ago. Jennifer Glass, an assistant professor at Georgia Tech, doesn't care for the term Boring Billion. "Earth was a dynamic place...

Society

Every year, you are at risk of catching the flu virus, which can see you man down for days. Although we’ve seen many advancements with the flu vaccination, there might still be things you didn't know about the flu – we’ve found eight interesting facts. 1. You can pass the...

Society

A black man from a working-class family worked hard to become medical doctor. He now works long, twelve hours of a thankless shift, and STILL has to deal with this. Here’s his story: I’m a black man. I’m about 6’2″, average build. Nothing too fancy. I think I...

Society

"Obesity runs in my family" is a phrase commonly uttered by people who find it difficult to manage their weight. But is there any truth to the theory that our genes predispose us to being overweight? Possibly, but the answer is not so straightforward. Scientists are starting to...

Society

Ovarian cysts are like the pimples of the reproductive system. These fluid or tissue-filled sacs are pretty common, but usually don’t warrant a full-on freakout. “The vast majority of ovarian cysts are benign, follicular cysts that come and go with your cycle and need no further...

Society

When we’re growing up, we have big dreams about what we will achieve in the future and what kinds of jobs we will be doing. Once you’re older, you start to realize that you have certain innate talents, weaknesses, passions and dislikes. While it’s tempting to pursue a career...

Society

Many people won't start the day without a cup of coffee. More filter coffee Caffeine, the stimulant found in coffee, isn't harmful to most people who consume 400mg or less each day, the US National Library of Medicine says. According to studies, more South Africans are switching...

Society

A bridge that abruptly buckled in north Italy has now killed 39 people, authorities said Wednesday as they continued the search for more survivors in the debris. The Morandi Bridge fell apart Tuesday, sending vehicles plunging onto the ground below and burying some in rubble. The bridge is part...

Society

A Washington state man said he followed the advice inside a fortune cookie and won a $125,000 lottery jackpot. The Vancouver resident told Washington's Lottery officials he discovered three fortunes inside a single cookie recently and decided to follow the advice printed on two of them:...

Society

As soon as you slip off your trainers after a workout, your body starts repairing the “damage” you did to your muscles. In fact, it’s actually this recovery process – not exercise itself – that makes you stronger and leaner, says exercise physiologist and nutrition...

Society

Teas that taste amazing – and have major body benefits? Yes please! Stock up on these four and boost your health, no meds required. 1. Buchu tea: The natural detoxer The “science” behind it: Buchu is a natural diuretic, helping the body to flush out harmful toxins, bringing...

Society

Children. No matter how hard you try, no matter how many times the point is proven, more often than not they think they know everything. It can be extremely frustrating for a parent to have to continuously deal with this trait, but one mom’s letter to her 13-year-old son – where she...

Society

One of the best things about staying at a hotel is, in my book at least, the breakfast. It’s not just the variety of options that exist at a buffet, but also that it’s somehow relaxing. This is doubly true if you have a nice view to appreciate. When it comes to such views, they...

Society

Scrolling through Facebook and my Instagram feed, I see examples of orthorexia proudly posted, worn like some sort of weird #fitspo badge of honour. An eating disorder, applauded. I know… because I used to be one of those people. If you’ve read about the beginnings of my...

Society

Taking a genetic test in your 20s or 30s could, indeed, affect your ability to get long-term-care insurance later — or at least the price you'll pay. And people who are considering enrolling in Medicare after age 65 would do well to read the fine print of the sign-up rules. Readers have...