Dr Leigh Martens

What are the health benefits of beetroot juice?

Beetroot juice contains plenty of healthful vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Drinking beetroot juice could provide several health benefits, such as lowering blood pressure and reducing inflammation. In this article, we discuss the health benefits, nutrition, and side effects of beetroot juice.
Read more

List of the best full-body exercises

The best full-body exercises include squats, burpees, lunges, and cycling. People can do these to exercise several muscles at once. Learn more about how to do these exercises here.
Read more

Can scientists 'hack' memory?

Is it possible to manipulate memory formation and consolidation? And why would we want to do it? We explore these questions in this Spotlight feature.
Read more

Poor diet biggest risk factor for early deaths worldwide

A global study links 1 in 5 deaths to poor diet, suggesting that low intake of fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and legumes is a major factor.
Read more

Keto diet: A 'cheat day' may undo benefits and damage blood vessels

New research suggests that people should not follow the ketogenic diet for 6 days and then take a day off, as a 'cheat day' may offset the benefits.
Read more

Fighting 'superbugs' with blue light

Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern throughout the world. A recent study investigates whether blue light can destroy these 'superbugs.'
Read more

Health benefits of olive leaf extract

Research is beginning to show that olive leaf extract may have several potential health benefits. These include lowering blood pressure, improving cholesterol, and reducing the risk of weight gain and type 2 diabetes. Learn more here.
Read more

Which are the best bedtime snacks for diabetes?

Having a snack before bed can help some people manage their blood sugar levels overnight, offsetting the dawn phenomenon and the Somogyi effect. In this article, we look at how blood glucose changes overnight and the best snacks to balance blood sugar before bed.
Read more

Scientists quash claims about single 'depression genes'

After reviewing data on 620,000-plus people, scientists quash claims that a single or handful of genes can have a strong influence on risk of depression.
Read more

Cancer: Are probiotics making immunotherapy less effective?

Probiotic supplements could be having a detrimental effect on this particular form of cancer treatment, according to new research.
Read more

What causes red spots on the roof of the mouth?

Many factors can cause red spots to appear on the roof of the mouth. These include oral infections, burns or other injuries, and ulcers. In this article, we look at the causes, symptoms, pictures, and treatments.
Read more

Dogs may be able to sniff out seizures

For the first time, researchers demonstrate that dogs can distinguish a distinct odor that the body produces during an epileptic seizure.
Read more

What do lice look like?

It is easy to confuse head lice with many other conditions. In this article, learn about what head lice and their eggs look like, as well as how to treat them.
Read more

Benefits and uses of B-complex vitamins

Vitamin B complex refers to the eight B vitamins. In this article, we take a closer look at each of these vitamins, the benefits of B-complex supplements, who should use them, and side effects.
Read more

What are the benefits of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA)?

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is an omega-6 fatty acid. People use CLA as a dietary supplement for weight loss, bodybuilding, and diabetes. In this article, we look at what the research says about the possible benefits, risks, and uses of CLA.
Read more

What are the benefits of marshmallow root?

Marshmallow root, Althaea officinalis, has a long history of use in traditional medicine, especially for coughs and digestive issues. In this article, we look at both the evidence behind the health benefits of marshmallow root and its possible side effects.
Read more

Gut microbes can spur immune system to attack cancer

An international study has identified gut bacteria that activate the immune system to slow melanoma growth in mice and highlights a key signaling pathway.
Read more

Mental health can impact memory decades later

A new longitudinal cohort study has confirmed a link between experiencing mental health problems throughout adulthood and having poorer memory in midlife.
Read more

What does the color of period blood mean?

Period blood can vary in color and relays important information about a person’s health. Normal period blood typically varies from bright red to dark brown or black. Blood or discharge that is orange or grey may indicate an infection. Learn more about what the different colors can mean here.
Read more

Causes and treatment of finger pain

Finger pain can result from a minor injury and will usually get better with self-care. However, severe, worsening, or recurring pain may indicate a more serious injury or underlying condition. Learn more about the causes and treatment of finger pain here.
Read more