Food & Health
LifestyleThe latest on Food & Health from our Lifestyle desk.

Teddy Woodhouse: Medics Dismissed Our Baby’s Fever Before Meningitis
Paramedics who attended seven-week-old Teddy Woodhouse did not recognize the seriousness of his condition or take him to hospital, the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust admitted. Teddy later suffered seizures and brain damage. His parents’ account is now used to train paramedics, and child-temperature alerts have been added to their iPads.
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Kudzu supplement linked to fewer binge-drinking days in trial
A US study of 120 adults with alcohol use disorder found that participants taking kudzu reported fewer binge-drinking days than those given a placebo. The treatment lasted 12 weeks, and researchers said the difference remained three months later. Participants also received weekly counselling, and took the supplement when they felt strong cravings or an urge to binge drink.

Christoph Muth: Antidepressant Switch Followed by Symptoms
Christoph Muth says tremors, numbness and episodes that leave him unable to walk began within days of switching antidepressants in 2022. Doctors helped him stop the new medication, but his symptoms continued. He now says he moved to Thailand to seek treatment, while the cause of his neurological condition remains unconfirmed.

Expert gives verdict healthiest milk: Dairy vs plant-based
Nutritionist Rob Hobson says dairy milk provides protein, calcium, vitamin B12, riboflavin and iodine, while plant-based alternatives can contain less protein and other nutrients. A study raises concern that even partially replacing dairy could contribute to deficiencies. Hobson advises checking fortification and considering where replacement nutrients come from.

Why Psychopaths Likely Get More Second Dates
A speed-dating study found that people with higher psychopathy traits were selected for a second date more often than those with below-average levels. Researchers say confidence, humor and charm may make red flags harder to spot during a brief first meeting, though the findings do not mean every person with these traits is violent.

Third U.S. Bird Flu Death Since Virus Spread to Dairy Cattle
A Yakima County resident has died after contracting H5N1 bird flu following exposure to infected dairy cattle, marking the third U.S. death linked to the

Does Fluoride-Free Toothpaste Compare? What Research Says
Hydroxyapatite toothpaste is drawing interest as a fluoride-free alternative, with some research supporting its effectiveness and potential to ease tooth sensitivity. Dental experts say fluoride remains beneficial for preventing cavities, while questions about hydroxyapatite’s protection and the evidence around fluoride risks continue to shape the debate.

Breast Cancer Early Warning Signs That Cause No Pain
Two Indian oncology specialists told TOI Health that breast cancer can appear as a change in skin, nipple or breast shape, often without pain or a lump. They urged women to know what is normal for them and to seek care promptly.

Your walking speed hold clues to health and longevity
A study followed 4,067 adults in the U.K., whose average age was about 69, and found that faster walking was associated with a lower risk of death over nearly 12 years. The findings do not prove that walking faster extends life, but a specialist says changes in pace may offer clues about how the body is functioning.

Well I’m Doomed Prostate: Trial Finds 58% Drop in Relapse
An Australian-led phase 3 trial found that adding darolutamide to standard treatment reduced the risk of prostate cancer relapse and spread among very high-risk men. Researchers reported a 58 per cent drop after four years and say the results could change care for patients with aggressive or treatment-resistant disease. The trial compared the drug with a placebo alongside hormone suppression and radiation.

North Yorkshire Libraries Offer 150 Free Winter Well Kits
North Yorkshire libraries are lending 150 free Wintering Well kits after the clock change, including therapeutic light lamps, guidebooks and access to an online course. A library user in Harrogate says the kit has already helped her build a morning routine. Researchers developed the boxes with people who experience symptoms associated with darker winter days.

Buvette London WC2: French café charm in Neal’s Yard
Buvette has opened in Neal’s Yard, bringing a French-leaning menu and a polished café interior to Covent Garden. Guardian restaurant critic Grace Dent describes the food and setting, while noting that the London restaurant had plenty of empty seats during her midweek visit. The menu lists 25 dishes, none priced above £18.

Study Links Ultra-Processed Foods to Signs of Brain Injury in Canadians
A Canada-wide study of more than 8,700 middle-aged participants found a possible link between diets high in ultra-processed foods and signs of vascular brain injury on MRI scans. Researchers say the findings do not yet establish a direct cause. Some participants are returning for further scans, with results expected in early 2028.

Cat food study finds heavy metals, glyphosate in tests
A new investigation says nearly all tested cat food contained toxic plastic contaminants, glyphosate and heavy metals. The findings cut across wet, dry and air- or freeze-dried products, including some marketed as natural or nutritionally superior.

Private health insurers draw fire over access to patients’ full medical records in audits
Private health insurers in Australia are facing backlash over how far they can go when checking claims. Hospitals and allied health providers say some insurers

Lucy Davis reveals stage 4 breast cancer diagnosis as actor says illness is incurable
Lucy Davis, the British actor best known as Dawn Tinsley in the original UK version of The Office, has revealed she is living with incurable

Woman-Carried Bomb Kills Three, Injures 21 at Moscow Restaurant
MOSCOW — A homemade bomb carried by a woman exploded near an upscale restaurant in central Moscow on Saturday evening, killing three people and injuring

West Virginia cyclosporiasis outbreak grows as U.S. cases pass 3,000
Health officials in Michigan are probing a cyclospora outbreak tied to lettuce and salad greens as U.S. cases climb above 3,000. The parasite causes severe diarrhea and can spread through contaminated produce.

Dining Out in the Age of Explosive Diarrhea Bug: Restaurants Adapt to Keep Customers Safe
As the world grapples with a new strain of explosive diarrhea bug, restaurants are scrambling to adapt their practices to ensure the safety of their

Jennifer Coppen’s Chewys Dessert Cafe: Menu Preview and Business Outlook
Jennifer Coppen is widening her footprint beyond acting with Chewys, a premium dessert cafe built around sweet menu items, modern presentation and a polished dining vibe. The launch places her among Indonesian celebrities betting on food and beverage brands as a serious business move.


