Vitamin D is important during the teenage years because it helps the body absorb calcium, which is needed to build strong bones (National Institutes of Health [NIH], Office of Dietary Supplements, 2025). One national study found that about 9% of children and young people ages 1 to 21 were vitamin D deficient, representing about 7.6 million people at the time of the study (Kumar et al., 2009). Adolescence is an important period of bone development. During these years, bones gr

Sources of Noise Pollution Environmental noise comes from several sources, with road traffic being the most common. Cars, buses, trucks, and other vehicles contribute significantly to noise levels, particularly in busy urban areas. Railways are another major source, followed by airports and aircraft. Airport noise affects fewer people overall but can cause considerable disturbance for those living near airports. Industrial activities, such as factories and machinery, are anot

By Kat Pachas BSN, RN Imagine never knowing whether your next meal or a stressful day will throw your gut into chaos. For millions of women with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), this happens every day. They deal with unpredictable waves of cramping, bloating, abdominal pain, constipation, and diarrhea (6, 9, 17). For them, these symptoms can feel like they have a mind of their own. IBS is very common, affecting 10–20% of the global population. Women are up to th

A new hypothesis called “Digital Dementia” suggests that forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and decreased ability to focus are symptoms of technology overexposure. Traditionally, the medical use of the term “dementia” describes a decline in a person’s ability to think due to changes in areas of the brain responsible for memory, language, and reasoning. Is it possible that technology may induce these changes in healthy adults and children, or is the term “digital dementi

For many people, caffeine is part of their daily routine, whether it comes from coffee, tea, energy drinks, or other products. While it is best known for increasing alertness, caffeine can affect several systems throughout the body. How Caffeine Affects the Brain Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant, meaning it acts directly on the brain to promote alertness and reduce feelings of tiredness. Moderate amounts may also support processing speed and memory. However, con

Medical Cannabis: What You Need to Know About THC, CBD, CBN, and CBC

New research suggests a bacterium found in food may help trap tiny plastic particles and carry them out of the body. Plastic pollution is everywhere, from oceans and rivers to the food and water we consume. As larger pieces of plastic break down, they can become extremely tiny particles called nanoplastics. A new study has found that a food derived bacterium called Leuconostoc mesenteroides CBA3656 may have an interesting ability: it can attach to nanoplastics and help move t

Running shoes are often blamed when a runner develops foot or leg pain. Maybe the shoes feel different than they used to. Maybe a new pair seems to cause blisters. Or perhaps someone has told you that your flat feet, high arches, or running style means you need a specific type of shoe. But the relationship between running shoes and injury is more complicated than that. Research suggests that running injuries have many possible causes, and there is not strong evidence that one

You cannot directly "add" synovial fluid from the outside, but you can improve its quality, quantity, and lubricating function through movement, nutrition, and supporting the physiological healing of the synovium. [1] Keep the Joints Moving Why is Movement Important for Joints? Synoviocytes constantly produce synovial fluid in response to joint mechanical loading, which can arise from compression and shear forces. Synovial joints work on a pumping mechanism; every time the jo

The human psyche is far from perfect. The brain is an extraordinarily complex organ, yet it remains a biological structure built through countless molecular interactions that ultimately give rise to consciousness. That consciousness is inherently fragile. At some point in life, most people will experience psychological crises, traumatic events, or emotional responses to everyday stressors. Illustration by Rob Dobi (Getty Images) Mental health professionals—including psycholog

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide. While advances in screening and treatment have significantly improved survival, early detection remains one of the most important factors in successful outcomes. Many people have heard about performing monthly breast self-exams. However, health organizations have shifted their recommendations toward breast self-awareness, encouraging women to become familiar with how their breasts normally look and fee

A pile of plastic trash; picture courtesy of Unsplash Microplastics have been found in varying amounts within many tissues and organs of the human body. There are many theories detailing the possible link between microplastics exposure and the development of inflammation, hormone disturbances, and increased risk of chronic illnesses. Understanding the effects of microplastics exposure and its possible effects on the human body are critical in assisting people in making choic

Drug overdose deaths have dropped nearly 27% in the past year, but drug supply continues to evolve with fentanyl, xylazine, and other threats. This article explains how to recognize an overdose, use naloxone, and support harm reduction strategies during National Recovery Month 2025. Author: Susanna Marrs RN, BSN, CARN