Pre-sleep light exposure linked to gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes, a potentially dangerous medical condition affecting pregnant women, has been seeing a spike in recent years. New research shows that the reason may have to do with how much excess light a woman encounters before sleeping.

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Kids of LGBT parents not developmentally disadvantaged, study suggests

Compared to children raised by heterosexual parents, being raised by same-sex parents doesn’t appear to be a determinant in childhood development, according to a new international study. In fact, it may even have some advantages.

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Aspirin reduces ovarian cancer risk regardless of genetic predisposition

Ovarian cancer is caused by several genetic factors. A recent study examined whether the protection provided by taking aspirin frequently, which has been shown to reduce ovarian cancer risk, was affected by a genetic predisposition to the disease.

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Soil biodiversity could counter negative health impacts of urbanization

In a new study, scientists from China, Europe and Australia have examined how rapid urbanization has affected an often overlooked area of biodiversity, soil biodiversity, and how it has impacted human health.

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Kind of carbs more important than quantity for cardiovascular health

Whereas previous studies have considered the link between overall carbohydrate consumption and CVDs, a new UK study looked at whether the types of carbohydrates consumed impacted cardiovascular health and found quality was more important than quantity.

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How adding some milk to your coffee may enhance its health benefits

New research has found adding milk to your morning coffee may enhance the drink's anti-inflammatory properties. Across several studies scientists demonstrated how milk proteins can bind with antioxidants in coffee, amplifying any health benefits.

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Dry-eye-preventing contact lens is powered by its wearer’s blinks

Many contact lens users end up suffering from an uncomfortable and sometimes even debilitating condition known as contact lens-induced dry eye (CLIDE). An experimental new contact lens, however, could keep that from happening … using a simple design.

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First-of-its-kind study shows how traffic pollution impairs brain function

By exposing healthy adults to diesel fumes before having their brain activity imaged in an fMRI machine, researchers have shown how traffic pollution can impair brain function, offering evidence of the connection between air quality and cognition.

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Buddhist monk microbiome study reveals impact of meditation on gut bacteria

In a first-of-its-kind study, researchers have trekked to remote Tibetan Buddhist temples to study the gut microbiomes of meditating monks. The findings suggest the long-term practice of deep meditation could positively impact gut bacteria composition.

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Just six minutes of vigorous exercise a day could keep your brain healthy

Just six minutes of intense aerobic exercise a day could be one of the most effective ways to keep you brain healthy into old age. New research has found brief bursts of exercise increase levels of a brain protein known to optimize cognitive health.

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