Steffan Rhys

The UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency is warning people who use medications such as inhalers, insulin, EpiPens, ramipril and bisoprolol to take extra precautions during another period of hot weather. Excessive heat can degrade active ingredients, alter absorption and make some medicines less effective, while certain drugs can increase dehydration or impair the body’s ability to regulate temperature. People are advised to store medicines in cool, dry places away from direct sunlight, avoid leaving them in cars or sun-exposed bags, stay hydrated, check for changes in appearance or performance, and consult a pharmacist or doctor if concerned.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency has urged people to take extra care with medicines during another period of hot weather in the UK. Heat can damage medicines, particularly those requiring refrigeration, while drugs such as ramipril and bisoprolol may make it harder for the body to regulate temperature, increase dizziness, or contribute to dehydration. Patients are advised to store medicines below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and hot cars, stay hydrated, watch for symptoms of heat-related illness, and consult a GP or pharmacist if concerned.

A UCLA-led study found that a single dose of rapamycin improved several autism-like brain and behavioral traits in adult mice within about two hours, including abnormal brain activity, seizure susceptibility, sensory sensitivity and repetitive behavior. The mice had been exposed to inflammation during pregnancy, which was associated with persistent developmental changes. Researchers stress that the effects were temporary, repeated dosing became less effective, and rapamycin can be toxic, so it is not a viable autism treatment for humans. The findings instead suggest that adult brain circuits may remain functionally adaptable and could reveal targets for future therapies.

Heart surgeon Jeremy London says he avoids smoking, alcohol, fizzy drinks and refined carbohydrates, calling sugary soft drinks “liquid death” because of their high calorie and sugar content. Physician William Li adds that soda consumption is associated with metabolic and cardiovascular disease and may pose risks from cumulative exposure to additives. NHS guidance links sugary drinks to tooth damage and weight gain in children, while studies associate regular consumption with heart disease, type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease and some cancers. Water, herbal tea and other low-sugar options are recommended as alternatives.

Heat rash in babies is usually harmless and clears within a few days, but parents should watch for small raised or clear bumps, itching, burning and mild swelling, particularly around the neck, armpits, creases, groin and upper body. Recommended care includes keeping babies cool, using loose breathable clothing and lighter bedding, offering cooler baths, and applying a cool damp cloth. Parents should seek medical advice for concerning rashes and call emergency services if a child appears seriously unwell or has symptoms such as breathing difficulties, confusion, a stiff neck, sudden swelling or a rash that resembles bruising and does not fade under pressure.

Sardinia is presented as an accessible and relatively uncrowded alternative to Spain and Greece, offering numerous highly rated beaches, including Cala Goloritzé, La Pelosa and Cala Dei Gabbiani. The island also provides coastal villages, countryside, food, nightlife and luxury resorts, with Cagliari and Alghero offering contrasting bases. The article highlights Sardinia’s celebrity appeal around Costa Smeralda, its local cuisine and agriturismo experiences, and flights from UK airports to Cagliari, Olbia and Alghero.

Experts highlight yoghurt, fermented foods and whole grains as readily available dietary options linked to improved brain function, reduced inflammation and better mental health outcomes. Research suggests diet‑driven changes in gut microbes can outperform average antidepressant effects for some individuals, while high consumption of ultra‑processed foods is associated with elevated risks of physical and mental health disorders.

Cardiovascular surgeon Jeremy London says he avoids alcohol-based mouthwash because it may destroy beneficial oral bacteria involved in nitric oxide production, potentially raising blood pressure and increasing cardiovascular risks. The article cites studies associating frequent mouthwash use with hypertension and discusses dentist Kami Hoss’s warning that excessive sterilisation can disrupt the oral microbiome.રસ

Experts debate whether moderate drinking extends lifespan, with a heart surgeon emphasizing flaws in studies that once suggested benefits and stressing that alcohol converts to a carcinogenic compound that damages DNA. Other specialists note moderate drinkers often appear to live longer, though lifestyle factors may explain the difference. Major health organizations state that alcohol increases cancer risk even at low levels, contributing to at least seven cancer types. Research from the British Heart Foundation concludes that the risks of alcohol outweigh any potential cardiovascular benefits, and alternative antioxidant sources such as fruit provide benefits without alcohol’s harms.

A 30-year study involving 69,000 women and 42,000 men found that eating two or more avocados per week was associated with a 16% lower risk of cardiovascular disease and a 21% lower risk of coronary heart disease compared with eating none. The article attributes these potential benefits to avocados’ fibre, vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, while noting their low carbohydrate content. It also highlights culinary uses including salads, toast, guacamole, mayonnaise substitutes and chocolate cake icing, and provides advice from cookbook author Taesha Butler to slow browning by brushing exposed avocado flesh with cooking oil.

Images and commentary highlight the severity of the 1976 UK heatwave, marked by extreme temperatures, drought conditions and widespread water shortages that led to rationing, school closures and environmental damage. Comparisons to record-breaking heat in 2026 underscore ongoing climate pressures. Historical photos show dry rivers, depleted reservoirs, fires and public efforts to conserve water as authorities introduced restrictions affecting hundreds of thousands of people.

A sleep specialist recommends bananas, kiwis, pineapple and Greek yoghurt as beneficial pre‑bedtime foods due to their magnesium, serotonin or melatonin content, while advising that alcohol close to bedtime can disrupt sleep and increase nighttime awakenings.

Nutrition experts argue that bread, pasta and rice should not automatically be excluded from a healthy diet because of their carbohydrate content. Research cited in the piece suggests pasta is generally not linked to weight gain and may be associated with lower BMI or abdominal obesity when consumed as part of a healthy dietary pattern. Italy’s high pasta consumption and relatively low obesity rate are highlighted, while experts warn that eliminating carbohydrates can cause fatigue, brain fog and irritability. The nutritional value of bread varies, with sourdough and other minimally processed options portrayed as preferable to mass-market products; pairing these foods with vegetables, legumes, nuts or other nutritious ingredients is presented as key.

Cherimoya, also known as custard apple, ranks as the highest-scoring fruit on a BBC list of the world's most nutritious foods, with a score of 96 out of 100. It is rich in vitamins A, C and B vitamins, potassium, fibre and antioxidants, and may support immunity, digestion, eye and heart health. The fruit has creamy flesh and a flavor likened to a combination of banana and pineapple. Some parts contain toxins that can affect the nervous system if consumed in large amounts. Cherimoya is available from specialist UK retailers, though supermarket availability is limited.

The UK government and Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency have advised people to take extra care with medicines during a forecast spell of temperatures above 30°C. Ramipril, bisoprolol and other blood-pressure medicines may affect the body’s ability to regulate heat, while diuretics, some diabetes medicines, antipsychotics and other treatments can increase dehydration, overheating or sunburn risks. People are advised to store medicines below 25°C where appropriate, keep them out of direct sunlight and hot cars, stay hydrated, watch for symptoms of heat-related illness and seek medical advice if they feel unwell.

A refuse collector known as The No1 Binman explains that crisp and chocolate packets cannot be recycled through household collections due to their multilayer soft-plastic material. He advises taking them to supermarket soft‑plastic recycling points, or otherwise disposing of them in general waste. Despite increasing plastic recycling efforts, WRAP notes that widespread kerbside collection for soft plastics is still limited. Old crisp packets found on UK beaches highlight the long‑lasting impact of plastic waste.

A major study discussed by Professors Felice Jacka and Tim Spector links high consumption of ultra-processed foods to increased risks of death, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, mental health disorders, obesity and several cancers. Jacka highlights emulsifiers as a common indicator of ultra-processed foods, suggesting they may impair gut health. Spector notes that ultra-processed foods comprise about 60% of the UK diet and are safe only when consumed occasionally. The article outlines how ultra-processed foods differ from minimally processed foods and lists common examples such as cereals, flavoured yoghurts, biscuits, crisps and ready meals.

Sleep expert Dr Daisy Mae advises people to consult a GP if difficulty falling or staying asleep persists for four weeks or more, daytime fatigue affects concentration or mood, or self-help measures fail. People preparing for an appointment should record their sleep patterns, caffeine and alcohol intake, stress levels, treatments tried, and night-time behaviours such as snoring or sleep paralysis so clinicians can assess the problem and recommend appropriate treatment.

Cardiologists identify apples, avocados, blueberries and oranges as affordable fruits that may help reduce cardiovascular risk through their fibre, antioxidants, healthy fats and flavanones. The article explains that heart disease is associated with fatty deposits narrowing the arteries and highlights smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, inactivity, diabetes, obesity and family history as major risk factors. Prevention also involves a balanced diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol and controlling blood pressure and diabetes, alongside eating vegetables, whole grains, low-fat proteins and healthy oils.

A nostalgic review of 16 alcoholic drinks that shaped 1990s UK drinking culture, from alcopops like Hooch, WKD and Reef to beers such as Boddingtons, Caffreys and Newcastle Brown Ale. The article highlights their popularity, cultural impact, memorable advertising and later decline or revival, reflecting changing tastes and attitudes toward alcohol over the past three decades.

Heart surgeon Jeremy London says he avoids soft drinks, describing them as “liquid death” and warning that high-calorie, sugar-based beverages make it easy to consume excessive calories. He also lists smoking, alcohol, and refined breads and pastas among things he avoids. London acknowledges that his wording was intended to attract attention, while physician William Li cites evidence associating high soda consumption with metabolic and cardiovascular disease and cancer risk, alongside concerns about additives and long-term exposure. NHS guidance advises children to avoid sugary fizzy drinks, squash, and juice drinks because of dental and weight-related risks, with water or sugar-free alternatives preferred.

Legal experts outline when neighbour construction becomes a statutory nuisance, emphasising that excessive or persistent noise, dust or debris may trigger council intervention or civil action. They recommend first addressing issues directly with neighbours and documenting any ongoing disruption. Guidance highlights time limits for noisy work, the relevance of the Party Wall Act for shared structures and circumstances requiring formal notices or agreements. Lawyers caution that disputes can be lengthy and costly, advising legal action only as a last resort.

Beetroot is identified as a potentially helpful food for high blood pressure because its natural nitrates may relax blood vessels. Studies suggest beetroot juice can lower blood pressure, particularly in some men and people with hypertension, but the evidence remains limited and should be interpreted cautiously. Other nitrate-rich foods such as spinach, celery, kale and broccoli may offer similar benefits. A balanced diet rich in fruit, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and dairy, with less salt, saturated fat, sugar and alcohol, is recommended, including the DASH diet. High blood pressure can damage arteries and increase the risk of dementia, stroke and heart disease.

House of Fraser’s Birmingham city-centre store has closed permanently after 66 years, ending the run of a landmark retail destination long known locally as Rackhams. The branch held clearance sales of up to 50% before shutting, with parts of the store already closed and reduced operations reflecting its decline. Originally opened in phases between 1960 and 1966, the store was rebranded from Rackhams to House of Fraser in 2003 and later became a Frasers clearance outlet after the company entered administration in 2018. Its closure follows the shutdowns of John Lewis and Debenhams in Birmingham, highlighting the continuing difficulties facing traditional department stores.