10 Useful Gadgets That Will Help You Turn Your Old Car Into a Smart Car
Want to upgrade your ride without dropping a small fortune on a new one? With these affordable smart car accessories, you can.
2023-08-19 00:24
Socialize, exercise and eat your vegetables: The Mediterranean lifestyle helping people live longer
Scientists have found more evidence to suggest that leading a Mediterranean lifestyle could be key to living a longer and healthier life. People who follow a Med lifestyle – including making time for socialising; resting; physical activity and eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains with low sugar and salt intake – are less likely to die prematurely or die from cancer. And those who get plenty of rest, exercise and make time to socialise with friends are less likely to die as a result of a heart attack or stroke. The new study examined data on 110,799 adults taking part in the UK Biobank study. People aged 45 to 70 from England, Wales and Scotland provided detailed information about their diet and lifestyle habits. The researchers, led by academics from La Universidad Autonoma de Madrid in Spain and Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health in the US, examined information ON Mediterranean food consumption; Mediterranean dietary habits – such as limiting salt and consuming healthy drinks – and lifestyle habits including taking regular naps, exercising, and spending time with friends. Higher total scores in these categories indicated a higher adherence to the Mediterranean lifestyle, the authors said. People involved in the study were tracked for nine years. Some 4,247 people died including 2,401 from cancer and 731 from cardiovascular disease, which includes heart attacks and strokes. Researchers found that people who followed a Mediterranean lifestyle were 29% less likely to die compared to their peers who did not follow this lifestyle. They were also 28% less likely to die from cancer, according to the study, which has been published in the journal Mayo Clinic Proceedings. And people who got plenty of rest and exercise, while also making time to socialise with friends, were also less likely to die from cardiovascular disease. “This study suggests that it’s possible for non-Mediterranean populations to adopt the Mediterranean diet using locally available products and to adopt the overall Mediterranean lifestyle within their own cultural contexts,” said lead author Mercedes Sotos Prieto, from La Universidad Autonoma de Madrid and Harvard Chan School. “We’re seeing the transferability of the lifestyle and its positive effects on health.” Read More Meghan’s got one. Gwynnie, too. But should YOU get a stress-busting wrist patch? How parents can support their children on GCSE and A-level results day A-Level results: How to be the emotional support your teen really needs
2023-08-18 23:47
Influencer Caleb Coffee hospitalised after falling off cliff in Hawaii
Influencer Caleb Coffee has been hospitalised after falling off a cliff during a hike in Hawaii, according to a GoFundMe page created by his sister. On Thursday 17 August, Coffee’s sister Peyton created the page, where she revealed that her brother is in the intensive care unit with a spinal fracture and broken femur, elbow and wrist. His sister also states that they don’t know the “extent” of his injuries yet, but that they also include “multiple gouges and burns throughout his entire body” According to the GoFundMe, Coffee was hiking with three friends when he “slipped and fell off a 60-80ft cliff onto lava rock”. He was reportedly airlifted to a nearby hospital, with Peyton telling fans that her brother “hasn’t been able to hold down food”. “The medics have informed us more injuries will most likely pop up over the next few weeks…” she added. As of Friday, the GoFundMe has raised $16,000 of its $100,000 goal. Coffee, who has more than 11 million followers on TikTok, updated his followers with a video posted to the platform on Thursday, where he wrote that it’s a “miracle” he’s alive. “Hey everybody, I just want to give a massive thank you to anyone that’s trying to help me or support me right now and I wanted to let you guys know a little update I just found out, that my neck and spine is not broken. Phew,” the TikToker said in the video, which he filmed from his hospital bed. More follows... Read More Schoolboy almost dies from swallowing magnets for TikTok challenge Woman shares honest review of New York City apartment TikTok mom slammed after making 5-year-old son run in 104 degree heat
2023-08-18 22:45
This Tomato Tarte Tatin Is Your Next Summer Baking Project
This recipe from ICE swaps the apples in a classic French tarte tatin with tomatoes.
2023-08-18 22:26
US slaps tariffs on some big solar companies for dodging China duties
By Nichola Groom The United States on Friday will finalize a decision to impose import duties on solar
2023-08-18 21:24
Fewer vs. Less: When to Use Each
‘Less’ versus ‘fewer’ is pretty straightforward. ‘Less than’ vs. ‘fewer than’ is slightly less so. Here’s how to get it right every time.
2023-08-18 21:21
What is money muling and why is it vital parents warn their children about the dangers?
Teenagers often like to have the latest gadgets and trainers, but if a young person suddenly has the ability to splash cash around, with no obvious explanation for their wealth, it could be a warning sign of money muling. Money muling happens when people are persuaded to let cash flow through their bank account in exchange for money or gifts – and young people in particular may be targeted. According to figures released by UK Finance and the fraud prevention body Cifas, young people under the age of 21 account for around one in five cases where money muling activity is suspected. While money muling may be seen as an opportunity to make some easy cash, it’s actually a criminal offence. The cash flowing through bank accounts is often the proceeds from crime. UK Finance and Cifas run a campaign called Don’t Be Fooled, which has developed free PSHE (personal, social, health and economic education) resources for schools, to help young people learn about the dangers and consequences of becoming a money mule. The new schools programme is aimed at youngsters aged 10 to 14. To find out more about the dangers of money muling – and the warning signs for parents to look out for – I asked Paul Maskall, manager of fraud and cybercrime prevention at UK Finance, for his expert insights: How can parents talk to children and teenagers about money mule activity and explain what it is? Paul says: “Even at the best of times, we aren’t always good at valuing and protecting our data, personal information or private details which we store digitally.” He says it’s important for parents to explain what money mules are, “to ensure that the newer generation have a better understanding of how to protect themselves.” He continues: “By doing so, it gives them more of an intuitive defence and understanding of the risk of people wanting to exploit them and gain access to their account, for the purposes of laundering money.” How can young people themselves avoid getting involved in money muling? Maskall stresses the importance of keeping accounts and personal information private. He says: “Criminals seek to manipulate you with a promise of gifts, rewards or a percentage of the funds sent through your account.” People should avoid opening a bank account in their name for someone else, allowing their bank account to be used to send and receive funds for other people, or sharing PINs and passcodes, he says. While criminals will often seek out younger people to become money mules, it’s also important to remember that anyone can be targeted, he adds. What are the warning signs that your child could be involved? “Tell-tale signs that your child might be involved in money muling could be them suddenly having extra cash, buying expensive new clothes or top-of-the-range mobile phones and gadgets with very little explanation as to how they got the money,” Maskall explains. “They may also become more secretive, withdrawn or appear stressed sometimes, becoming more fixated on communication and phone usage.” What are the consequences of money mule activity? Some people may see requests to pass money through their account as harmless – but they could be making a big mistake. “Criminals need money mules to launder the profits of their crimes and frequently target young people, who are often unaware of the consequences of them agreeing to do so,” says Maskall. “Allowing a bank account to be used in this way is a crime and can result in a criminal record and the account being closed. “You could go to prison for up to 14 years and it can also lead to the individual finding it difficult to obtain mobile phone contracts or access financial products and credit, including student loans.” What should parents do if they think their child or someone else they know might be involved in money muling? “It’s important for parents and guardians to remind their children of the potential approaches that they may receive from criminals,” says Maskall. He says if any parents or guardians are worried that someone they are close to might be caught up in money muling, they can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Where can parents go to get support or seek further information and how can communities stay safe? Maskall says: “We encourage everyone to visit the Don’t Be Fooled website for more information on the risk of money muling and how to stop the signs. www.moneymules.co.uk. “It is important to remember that anyone can be at risk and speaking openly and educating one another about the harm and risks involved will benefit others.” Read More From tofu chicken wings to chickpea bacon – how and why you should be making plant-based meat at home Holly Willoughby channels Gwyneth Paltrow with ‘orgasm anxiety’ blog post Do it for the Gram: Speedy but spectacular goat’s cheese linguine Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live
2023-08-18 20:28
Tempted to try barefoot running? Here’s what you need to know
Barefoot running seems to be rising in popularity, with fans hailing its many benefits – and some even tackling entire marathons without shoes. The thought of bare soles beating the pavement may leave many people wincing, and there are certainly things to consider before giving it a go. But the idea of exploring the most natural way to move – with our primitive bare feet on the ground – could be tempting too. So, what is the deal with barefoot running, and is it worth it? Are there any benefits to barefoot running? “Barefoot running really helps us reconnect with nature,” says Sammy Margo, a physiotherapist working with muscle and joint care specialists Deep Freeze and Deep Heat. For many, this is a big part of the appeal – and some fans of barefoot running say they’ve experienced benefits to their running form too. It’s important to remember our bodies may all respond differently to pressure and force, however, so how we react to barefoot running may vary. “The body, muscles, and joints will take on the ground pressure differently,” says podiatrist Dina Gohil, brand ambassador for CCS Foot Care. “Some people may experience improvement in pain in certain areas, and vice versa. The body works together and force is distributed to the best of your body’s ability to enable the movement you’re trying to achieve.” If you can physically feel your feet hitting the ground however, in theory, your body may become more aware of those forces and movement patterns. “Going shoe-free can help with your awareness of the position and movement of your body – proprioception. Exercising barefoot can also help restore natural running patterns and strides,” Gohil explains. For example, she adds: “Being barefoot can actually allow you to be more conscious of how the heel strikes on the ground, and at what pace and strength. So doing activities barefoot can help strengthen the foot and ankle, improve muscle strength, increase flexibility, and allow for proper movement.” Will you notice other changes? According to barefoot runners, the soles of your feet will also become a lot more resilient over time. “The best way to toughen feet is to try and walk on as many different surfaces as possible. Some people have also used newspapers on the ground to walk on to help with this process,” says Gohil. The muscles in your legs will develop differently too. Margo says: “Running barefoot also activates smaller muscles in our legs and feet, helping to improve strength and overall mobility.” Are there any risks or cons to think about? While many runners experience a range of benefits from going barefoot, there are certainly potential risks to consider. First and foremost, there’s the risk of wounding yourself if you stamp on something sharp – so always be sensible when choosing where to run barefoot. “Until your feet become acclimatised, you may find you are more prone to blisters until firmer skin or calluses have formed,” says Gohil. “There is also the increased risk of developing plantar fasciitis on the sole and heel of the foot. Other problems might include blisters, callus, cuts, infection, Achilles tendonitis, tight lower leg muscles, or stress fractures.” Margo adds: “As our muscles are working harder, [they] may become shorter and tighter, and you may feel some pain initially when you start barefoot running.” Having the support and comfort of a well-fitting running shoe can also be vital for many runners, particularly if you have a history of injuries or joint problems – so it’s advisable to speak with a healthcare professional before you attempt barefoot running. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live How can you get rid of acne scars? From serums to laser treatments, experts talk through the options 5 viral TikTok fake tanning tips for the perfect summer glow Not got the A-level grades you needed? Here’s how to get started with the clearing process
2023-08-18 15:48
Olympic champ Tori Bowie's mental health struggles were no secret inside track's tight-knit family
Olympic gold medalist Tori Bowie’s autopsy included an easy-to-overlook notation beneath the heading “Medical History:” Bipolar disorder
2023-08-18 15:25
How can you get rid of acne scars? From serums to laser treatments, experts talk through the options
As if dealing with painful, pus-filled spots wasn’t bad enough, often those pesky pimples don’t just disappear completely. Acne can leave a scar – anything from a faint red mark to a significant dent in the skin. And while some of these residual blemishes fade away fast, others are harder to get rid of, but there are various at-home and clinic options to help diminish the signs of acne and pimple scarring. Here, dermatology experts talk through the options… Why does acne cause scarring? When pores become clogged and infected, a spot forms, leading to inflammation, which is the main cause of acne scarring. “Because of the injury that occurs with increased inflammation and pus, it causes damage to the dermis [the middle layer of the skin],” says Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme, medical consultant and Kelo-Cote skin ambassador. “When damage occurs to the dermis, that heals with some form of scarring. Scarring can be red if you’re a lighter skin type, or brown if you’re a darker skin type.” The amount of inflammation often determines how severe the scar will be. However, genetics can also play a role, as well as other factors. “It can also be caused by squeezing or picking at the spots,” says Dr Rabia Malik, GP and holistic aesthetic doctor, which is why it’s important to avoid popping your pimples. “If the way you extract the spot isn’t done properly, you may stress or tear the skin and permanently damage the tissue, leaving behind scarring.” What are the different types of acne scars? Acne scarring can generally be separated into two main categories: hypertrophic and atrophic. “Hypertrophic and keloid scars are thick lumpy scars,” says Malik. “Atrophic scars are flat shallow depressions that are commonly caused by cystic acne.” There are three main types of the latter, she explains: “Boxcar scars have defined edges that are wide and box-like and are commonly found on the lower cheeks and jaw. Rolling scars vary in depth and make the skin appear uneven. Ice Pick scars are narrow indentations that are commonly found on the cheeks.” There is a difference between scarring and post-acne pigmentation, however. “Often people think the pigmentation left behind is also scarring, but technically speaking, it isn’t,” says Dr Christine Hall, aesthetics doctor at the Taktouk Clinic. “It’s the body’s response to having the injury in the skin, and your body produces and sends melanin to the skins surface. It’s the pigment in our skin that also causes us to have a tan.” Skincare solutions Finding the most suitable skincare solution for you can depend on your individual needs. When it comes to mild or moderate scarring however, Ejikeme says: “Skincare is definitely the first step.” She recommends serums and face creams that contain niacinamide or retinoids: “They increase collagen production, they’re more likely to improve the texture of the skin.” Alpha and beta hydroxy acids, which usually come in serum, gel or liquid form (applied with a cotton pad) can also be effective for skin renewal. “Ingredients such as azelaic acid, lactic acid and salicylic acid encourage cell turnover and as a result, diminish the appearance of acne scars,” Malik says. “Treatment can vary and some people may need prescription grade medication to treat their acne and thereby prevent scarring.” Aesthetic treatments For more severe scarring, you may want to consult your GP, a dermatologist or specialist aesthetic practitioner to discuss possible treatments. “Microneedling helps to stimulate collagen and smooth out scars,” says Hall. “Laser resurfacing treatments can also be helpful and chemical peels can help remove some of the damaged skin layers.” Similar to hair removal, ablative laser works by targeting the pigment in the scars and zapping it away. With treatments starting from around £400, it’s a significant investment, however. “Dermal fillers can be used on atrophic scars to temporarily reduce the appearance of scars that are significantly depressed,” says Malik. Fillers can also be used on pitted scars. Be sure to seek professional advice to determine the appropriate treatment for different types of scarring. “Microneedling is not known to work for icepick scars, for example,” says Ejikeme. “And if you have a keloid scar, there are very few lasers that you should be doing because the more you agitate a keloid scar, the more likely that scar is to grow.” If you have ongoing acne, it’s important to find an effective skincare routine or get medical treatment to prevent further scarring. “There are lots of things your GP can do to help prevent spots from appearing in the first place,” says Hall. “If you are developing acne scarring, the GP can help or refer you to a dermatologist.” Getaway scars: 8 super serums and key ingredients to try 1. Purifide by Acnecide Post-Breakout Serum, £14.99, Boots 2. Q+A Niacinamide Daily Toner, £8, Sourcerie 3. Eucerin DermoPurifyer Triple Effect Serum, £12, Boots 4. Glow Hub The Scar Slayer Facial Serum, £14 5. IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Breakout Serum, £22, Cult Beauty (available August 30) 6. E.l.f Cosmetics Youth Boosting Advanced Night Retinoid Serum, £22 7. Kelo-Cote Scar Treatment Gel, £32.18, Boots 8. Teoxane Brightening Night Peel, £59 Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live 5 viral TikTok fake tanning tips for the perfect summer glow Not got the A-level grades you needed? Here’s how to get started with the clearing process Jennifer Lopez shares her beauty regime – here’s how to look after skin in your 50s
2023-08-18 14:15
Ukrainian children's war diaries are displayed in Amsterdam, where Anne Frank wrote in hiding
The city where Anne Frank wrote her World War II diary while hiding with her family from the brutal Nazi occupation is hosting an exhibition about the Ukraine war with grim echoes of her plight more than three quarters of a century later
2023-08-18 09:25
16 Animals With Delightfully Obvious Names
From burrowing owls to smooth green snakes, these animal names don't leave much to the imagination.
2023-08-18 06:24