Sponsored article Studies suggest that the Micropeptide Humanin (HN) is encoded in mitochondrial DNA and may have cytoprotective characteristics that prevent cells, particularly neurons, from undergoing apoptosis, also known as programmed cell death. Some research suggests the Humanin Peptide may therefore have applications in cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Cell ageing, Alzheimer’s disease, blindness, insulin resistance, diabetes, mitochondrial dysfunction, and vascular dysfunction are all associated with lower endogenous Humanin levels. Elevated levels in mice may also signal ..read more

For all the joy friendships can bring, they have their fair share of challenges, too. You might know someone who’s been a friend for a while, but you feel there are problems in the relationship and you aren’t sure whether to try to fix things – or whether it’s best to let it go. ‘Friendships are generally built on common ground – this might be school, a workplace or a living situation, or a shared hobby or interest,’ says counsellor Georgina Sturmer. ‘What’s tricky about friendships is that we sometimes expect them to last forever. There’s a road map for romantic relationships to ebb and flow ..read more

‘It can be tricky to meet new friends as grown-ups, because we move in different settings once we leave educational spaces such as school and university,’ says clinical psychologist Michaela Thomas. ‘That’s why lots of adult friendships often start in the workplace or in the local community, such as in baby or toddler groups, or school parents connect with other school parents. If you work from home or don’t go out much, it can be even harder to meet new people to make friends with.’ I’ve had periods in my adult life where I’ve felt lonely and wished to have more friends. It can be painful whe ..read more

She’s been called the ‘original influencer’, so what makes millions want to know what author and blogger Louise Pentland is thinking? Holly Treacy meets her to find out… If you have never come across Louise Pentland’s social media accounts, YouTube channel, or website, you’re probably in the minority. She’s been blogging since 2009 and has millions of followers for one reason: her content is full of joy. But while she was busy sprinkling happiness out into the world at the beginning of this year, she didn’t feel she was experiencing much joy in her own life. That’s not to say she didn’t enjoy ..read more

Sponsored article Studies suggest that a unique class of experimental peptides known as Adipotide peptide has been developed to specifically target and induce apoptosis in the vasculature of adipose tissues. Although it was first conceived for the context of obesity, its one-of-a-kind mode of action, which involves targeting the blood supply of fatty tissues, suggests tremendous potential for evaluation in oncological studies, notably in anti-angiogenic compounds for cancer research. The biochemistry of Adipotide peptide, its molecular targets, and possible relevance in cancer research are exp ..read more

2 minute read In our fast-paced world, finding moments of peace and clarity can be challenging, but mindfulness exercises can to help calm the mind and foster a sense of inner tranquility. This guide introduces three essential practices for developing mindfulness. 1. Recognise the unsettled mind Set a timer for five minutes and sit with your back straight with the intention of doing nothing. Keep your eyes open and experience your surroundings. When you notice your thoughts, just bring your attention back to the here and now. Repeat. After five minutes, write down what you noticed about your e ..read more

I begin the day thinking I’ll go for a run at lunchtime, and/or a 7pm exercise class. But as the time draws closer, my mind resists. The sun has set, I’ve got to finish some work – a whole list of excuses suddenly comes to mind. It takes an iron will to ignore those resistant voices in my head even though I’ve never regretted going once I’m done. I know that it’s good for me to get moving. A stack of scientific research shows that those who exercise are less susceptible to serious disease. According to estimates by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, 12,000 of the 78,935 cases of ..read more

Summer is truly upon us, and with the balmy weather and longer days comes the perfect opportunity to create unforgettable memories with your significant other – or perhaps show yourself some love, and enjoy some quality me-time, instead. Whether you’re flying solo or coupled up, this is the perfect season to embrace the romance, says relationships expert Anna Williamson…  Sunshine boosts your mood – fact. It stimulates the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of happiness, making the long holiday season the ideal time for romantic escapades. Summer tant ..read more

Looking to spruce up your diet? Why not try adding some fermented foods to your diet? They’ve been becoming increasingly popular in recent years due to their gut-health benefits. Not only will they spice up (or should we say, umami up) your palate, they are also jam-packed full of endless health benefits. Some might say the health benefits of fermented foods are anecdotal, but humans have eaten them for millennia for their health-giving properties. What are fermented foods? Fermentation is where the ‘good bacteria’ in foods are encouraged to thrive. This leads to a change in both the flavour a ..read more

Packing for your holidays? Don’t forget to pack these travel-friendly health & beauty essentials – from must-have SPFs to rehydration heroes. Whether you’re spending summer in the UK or you’re planning to travel abroad on your holidays, it’s vital to look after your skin and overall health when spending time in the sun. We’ve rounded up our favourite sustainable and travel-friendly skincare, health & beauty essentials to keep you on top form this summer. Advertorial promotion Odylique Natural and Cream Foundations (£31) Bridging the gap between makeup and skincare, Odylique’s two new ..read more