Apricot kernels are the seeds found inside the hard pit of apricots, traditionally used in various cultures for medicinal and culinary purposes due to their nutritional and phytochemical richness. The potential health benefits of apricot kernels have recently drawn attention in scientific research, with studies highlighting their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting effects. Rich in bioactive compounds such as amygdalin (also known as vitamin B17), essential fatty acids, and polyphenols, apricot kernels are being investigated for their therapeutic promise against chronic diseases. A comprehensive review of the Malatya apricot, a geographically protected variety, underscores the kernels’ functional and nutritional importance, linking…
Author: Sugar And Spice
Sunflower seeds are the edible seeds harvested from the flower heads of the Helianthus annuus plant, commonly consumed as a snack or used in cooking due to their dense nutritional profile and health-promoting properties. Packed with an impressive mix of essential nutrients including vitamin E, magnesium, selenium, and beneficial fats, sunflower seeds have been widely researched for their positive impact on human health. Studies show they support cardiovascular wellness, enhance immune function, and even provide neuroprotective benefits due to their antioxidant-rich composition. Emerging research also highlights their role in promoting cognitive performance and metabolic regulation, making them an excellent dietary…
Watermelon seeds are the small, nutrient-rich kernels found within the fruit Citrullus lanatus, often overlooked yet packed with proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, and essential minerals source on composition of edible parts of Cucurbitaceae. Despite their common dismissal as waste, watermelon seeds have emerged in scientific literature as a functional food ingredient with promising health benefits. These seeds are especially valued for their high content of unsaturated fatty acids, plant-based proteins, magnesium, and antioxidants, all of which contribute to various physiological functions. Research highlights that watermelon seeds can aid cardiovascular health, metabolic regulation, and immune support, making them more than just…
Pomegranate (Punica granatum) is a nutrient-dense fruit native to the Middle East and parts of Asia, celebrated for its vibrant arils and long-standing use in traditional medicine due to its rich antioxidant content. Recent research has shown that the tiny seeds within the pomegranate—often overlooked—harbor potent bioactive compounds that contribute to a range of scientifically validated health benefits. These seeds are a source of punicic acid, flavonoids, and polyphenols, which exhibit powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective effects. From improving cardiovascular function to supporting metabolic health and even demonstrating anticancer activity in lab studies, pomegranate seeds are gaining recognition as a…
Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia, known for its juicy white pulp and a thick, purple rind rich in xanthones and polyphenolic compounds. Mangosteen rind, often discarded during consumption, has gained scientific attention for its impressive health benefits—especially its antioxidant capabilities. Rich in bioactive xanthones like α-mangostin and γ-mangostin, the rind plays a crucial role in neutralizing free radicals, reducing oxidative stress, and potentially lowering the risk of chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular diseases and cancer. In recent pharmacological reviews, mangosteen pericarp extract has demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and antimicrobial effects, owing to its high…
Rambutan seeds are the inner kernels of the tropical fruit Nephelium lappaceum, traditionally discarded but now gaining attention for their rich nutritional and phytochemical composition. These seeds are high in healthy fats, amino acids, and bioactive compounds.Once considered agricultural waste, rambutan seeds are now being studied for their surprising health benefits and potential applications in food and nutraceutical industries. Research shows that these seeds are rich in essential fatty acids, particularly oleic and arachidic acids, which may support cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation. Moreover, antioxidant compounds in rambutan seeds are being linked to anti-aging and disease-preventive properties, offering a promising…
Kiwi, or Actinidia deliciosa, is a nutrient-dense fruit known for its bright green interior and fuzzy brown skin, which surprisingly holds a significant portion of the fruit’s nutrients. While many people peel off the skin, studies show that kiwi skin is a rich source of dietary fiber, antioxidants, and polyphenols—compounds that play a vital role in digestive and skin health. The skin contains up to three times more antioxidants than the flesh, making it an untapped superfood in your daily diet. In fact, the high content of vitamin C and flavonoids in kiwi skin has been linked to immune modulation…
Durian, known as the “King of Fruits,” is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia, famous for its strong aroma, spiky outer shell, and rich, creamy flesh. While durian is often met with mixed reactions due to its powerful scent, the seeds of this exotic fruit are increasingly gaining recognition for their impressive health benefits. Durian seeds are rich in bioactive compounds, including antioxidants, fiber, and proteins, which are known to promote digestive health, regulate blood sugar levels, and enhance immune function. Studies have shown that the seeds contain flavonoids and polyphenols, which can have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. Furthermore,…
Blood pressure is the force exerted by circulating blood against the walls of the body’s arteries, a vital indicator of cardiovascular health. In clinical and home settings, the choice between manual and digital blood pressure devices has become a pivotal aspect of accurate diagnosis and ongoing health monitoring. Manual sphygmomanometers, long considered the gold standard, require training and precision in reading auscultatory sounds with a stethoscope. In contrast, digital blood pressure monitors offer user-friendly automation and quick readings, especially favored for home use and telemedicine applications. However, concerns about calibration, accuracy across different patient populations, and susceptibility to motion artifacts…
Cucumber skin is the thin, dark green outer layer of the cucumber fruit, rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Many people peel cucumbers without realizing that the vibrant green skin contains some of the most valuable nutrients. The skin is particularly high in antioxidants like flavonoids and tannins, which help fight inflammation and cellular damage. Additionally, cucumber skin has been shown to offer digestive support due to its insoluble fiber, which promotes healthy gut function. Emerging research suggests that incorporating unpeeled cucumbers into your diet could aid in weight management, reduce oxidative stress, and even support cardiovascular health. Nutritional…
Pumpkin skin is the tough, outer protective layer of the pumpkin fruit, rich in fiber, carotenoids, and bioactive compounds, often discarded during cooking despite its nutritional value. Often overlooked and thrown away, pumpkin skin is emerging as a hidden gem in the realm of nutrition and wellness. Recent research highlights that this vibrant outer layer is packed with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, and essential micronutrients that can contribute to overall health and disease prevention. Compounds such as carotenoids, which are abundant in pumpkin skin, have been shown to support skin health and immune function. In fact, bioactive elements extracted from pumpkin…
Smart devices refer to electronic gadgets such as smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and other connected digital tools that can interact with users and other devices through wireless protocols like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, often offering real-time functionalities like notifications, health tracking, and media access. In our modern age of digital connectivity, smart devices have become nearly inseparable from daily life—used for communication, productivity, and entertainment. However, their widespread use, especially in the evening hours, has raised critical concerns about their potential impact on the body’s internal biological clock, known as the circadian rhythm. The core issue stems from short-wavelength blue light emitted…
Technology is broadly defined as the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in industry and daily life. Over the past century, technological innovations have dramatically reshaped human behavior, particularly in how we work, travel, and entertain ourselves. While these advancements offer unmatched convenience and efficiency, a growing body of evidence suggests that our increasing dependence on technology may be diminishing our physical capabilities. For instance, studies have noted a decline in average grip strength and overall muscle mass among younger generations, potentially linked to reduced manual labor and physical exertion in daily tasks. Furthermore, the World Health Organization…
Healthcare is the organized provision of medical care to individuals or communities through diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. While artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming healthcare with breakthroughs in diagnostics, treatment personalization, and operational efficiency, these advances come with complex trade-offs. Beneath the surface of innovation lies a range of hidden costs, from algorithmic bias affecting clinical outcomes to the significant financial and ethical implications of deploying large-scale AI systems. For example, studies have shown that AI models can perpetuate racial disparities due to training on skewed datasets. Moreover, the integration of AI technologies often demands heavy investment in infrastructure,…
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early and not being able to return to sleep, often leading to impaired daytime functioning. In our hyper-connected digital era, the rise of tech-induced insomnia—sleep disruption caused by excessive use of devices like smartphones, laptops, and tablets—has emerged as a significant concern for both individuals and organizations. Prolonged exposure to screen light, especially blue light, interferes with melatonin secretion and circadian rhythms, contributing to chronic sleep deprivation. Studies have shown a clear link between insomnia and deteriorating job performance, with employees experiencing increased fatigue,…
Cyberbullying is the act of harassing, threatening, or targeting someone using digital technologies, especially through social media, messaging apps, or online platforms. In today’s hyperconnected world, cyberbullying has emerged as a significant social issue affecting individuals across all age groups. Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying extends beyond schoolyards or workplaces, infiltrating private spaces through smartphones and computers. It often includes behaviors such as spreading rumors, sending threatening messages, or publicly humiliating individuals online. Studies show that adolescents are particularly vulnerable, with nearly one in three students reporting some form of online harassment. The emotional toll of cyberbullying is profound—often linked to…
The internet is a global network of interconnected computers that enables the rapid exchange of information, communication, and services across the globe—transforming how societies function and individuals interact with the world. As its integration into daily life intensifies, researchers are increasingly examining the cognitive and neural implications of excessive usage. Recent studies using neuroimaging techniques such as fMRI and DTI reveal that chronic overuse of the internet may lead to measurable changes in brain structure and function, particularly affecting areas involved in emotion regulation, decision-making, and impulse control Neuroimaging insights into internet overuse. These alterations are often seen in the…
A real gym refers to a physical space equipped with exercise machines, free weights, and designated areas for group training, typically supervised by certified fitness professionals. These settings provide structured programs and in-person coaching aimed at improving physical health, strength, and overall fitness. For more insight, refer to this comparative study on traditional fitness centers highlighting their benefits for personalized and holistic training. ({% https://folia.unifr.ch/documents/331002/files/BT_RODRIGUEZ_Eduardo_2024.pdf trusted %}) As virtual platforms and AI-driven fitness solutions grow in sophistication and popularity, the question arises: can they truly replace the traditional gym experience? AI-powered fitness offers unmatched accessibility, customized routines based on biometric…
Obesity is defined as an abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that presents a risk to health, commonly measured using Body Mass Index (BMI). In today’s digital age, smartphones have become indispensable, transforming the way people communicate, work, and entertain themselves. However, emerging research suggests a troubling association between increased smartphone use and the rising prevalence of obesity. Studies have found that excessive screen time is often linked to sedentary behavior, sleep disruption, and increased snacking—factors contributing to weight gain. For instance, one large-scale cross-sectional study found a strong correlation between prolonged smartphone use and obesity among young adults, especially those…
Anxiety is a psychological and physiological response to perceived threats, often manifesting as heightened worry, nervousness, or unease about future uncertainties. It can significantly impact well-being, particularly when persistent or triggered by environmental stressors. As artificial intelligence becomes an increasingly integral component of modern surveillance systems, public unease surrounding data privacy and personal freedom is rising sharply. AI surveillance — from facial recognition and biometric tracking to predictive policing — is now embedded in everyday life, often without individuals’ informed consent. Research shows that this type of omnipresent monitoring contributes directly to rising levels of privacy-related anxiety. Individuals report a…
An e-reader is a portable electronic device designed specifically for reading digital books, typically using E-Ink technology that mimics the appearance of ink on paper and minimizes glare and blue light exposure. In a digital age where screen time dominates daily life, concerns about eye strain have led many to question whether e-readers are a safer alternative to smartphones. E-readers, with their E-Ink displays, promise a paper-like reading experience that may reduce digital eye strain, unlike the harsh backlit screens of smartphones. A study published by the Association of British Dispensing Opticians confirms that prolonged exposure to backlit screens—common in…
Digital life refers to the increasingly immersive and interconnected existence people lead through digital technologies, where social, personal, and professional interactions are mediated via the internet, devices, and apps. As social media continues to dominate the digital ecosystem, its influence on mental well-being has become a growing concern. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook are not just tools for communication—they are psychological landscapes where users constantly encounter curated representations of others’ lives. This often gives rise to, a pervasive feeling of anxiety over the possibility of missing rewarding experiences others seem to be having. Research has shown that individuals with…
Sleep disorders are medical conditions that disrupt an individual’s ability to get quality, restful sleep, affecting their health, safety, and quality of life. In today’s hyperconnected society, smartphones have become indispensable—integrated into every aspect of daily life, from communication to entertainment. However, this digital dependency comes at a hidden cost: the erosion of sleep quality. Numerous studies have identified a direct correlation between smartphone usage, especially before bedtime, and disrupted sleep patterns, including delayed sleep onset, reduced sleep duration, and impaired sleep quality. According to a recent evaluation on adolescents, excessive exposure to screens—particularly smartphones—was strongly associated with poor sleep…
Screen time is commonly defined as the amount of time a person spends using devices with screens such as televisions, computers, smartphones, and tablets for various activities including entertainment, communication, and education. In today’s hyper-digital world, screen exposure begins earlier than ever, and children are spending a growing portion of their day immersed in digital media. This shift has prompted growing concern among health professionals and researchers regarding the potential behavioral and cognitive consequences of excessive screen time—particularly its association with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Recent studies have begun exploring this connection, with some findings suggesting a positive correlation between increased…
Posture refers to the alignment and positioning of the body in relation to gravity—whether standing, sitting, or lying down—and plays a critical role in musculoskeletal health. In the modern digital era, the habitual act of looking down at a smartphone for extended periods has given rise to a growing health concern known as “Tech Neck”—a condition linked to poor cervical posture and chronic musculoskeletal discomfort. Studies show that tilting the head forward while scrolling or texting exerts increasing pressure on the cervical spine, significantly more than in a neutral position. This seemingly minor daily behavior, when repeated for hours, contributes…
A phone is a portable electronic device that allows for wireless communication, multimedia interaction, and digital connectivity through various applications and platforms. While smartphones have become indispensable tools for communication and productivity, an increasing body of research suggests that excessive phone use—especially for social media and entertainment—may be harming our mental health. Studies have linked higher screen time with increased symptoms of anxiety and depression, particularly among adolescents and young adults. For instance, one study found that individuals who spend more than five hours a day on their phones are significantly more likely to report depressive symptoms compared to those…
Diagnosing diseases is the process of identifying a medical condition based on the patient’s symptoms, history, and test results. It is a critical aspect of healthcare, typically performed by a trained healthcare professional who integrates clinical knowledge with diagnostic tools. In recent years, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into healthcare has sparked significant debate. With advancements in machine learning, AI models are now capable of diagnosing diseases with impressive speed and accuracy, often rivaling the expertise of human doctors. AI-driven tools like deep learning algorithms are particularly useful in analyzing medical imaging data, predicting disease progression, and even suggesting…
An earbud is a compact, in-ear audio device designed to fit directly into the ear canal and deliver sound from digital sources like smartphones or laptops. These devices, often wireless and sleek, are increasingly used for music, calls, and even sleep enhancement. According to a study, earbuds are now a ubiquitous part of daily life, especially among younger populations due to their portability and immersive sound quality. In recent years, the growing popularity of earbuds has coincided with a concerning trend: rising rates of hearing loss, particularly among teens and young adults. The World Health Organization warns that nearly 1.1…
Headphones are personal audio devices that allow users to listen to sound privately by converting electrical signals into sound waves delivered directly to the ears. They come in various types such as over-ear, on-ear, and in-ear, and are used for music, communication, and professional audio tasks. With the rise in remote work, travel, and noisy environments, noise-canceling headphones have surged in popularity for their ability to reduce ambient noise and enhance concentration. These devices often promise a more peaceful auditory experience, but questions have emerged around their long-term impact on ear health. Research suggests that prolonged use—especially at high volumes—can…
Technology refers to the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in industry and everyday life, encompassing tools, systems, and methods that improve efficiency or solve problems. In the digital age, technology has become so embedded in our daily lives that its impact on the human brain is both profound and often invisible. While smartphones, social media, and AI-powered platforms have revolutionized how we work, learn, and connect, they are simultaneously rewiring our brains in ways that may be detrimental. Research suggests that the persistent use of digital devices fragments attention, reduces memory retention, and fosters dependency through dopamine-driven…