Often labeled the brain’s “pleasure chemical,” dopamine is one of the most misunderstood substances in neuroscience. In reality, its role in shaping our behavior, motivation, and thinking is far more complex. Nikolay Kukushkin explores what dopamine actually does inside the brain—and why it so often feels like it’s working against us. The human brain is…

Balancing on one leg may seem simple, but it often becomes more difficult with age. Practicing this skill regularly, however, can build strength, sharpen memory, and support long-term brain health. Unless you’re a flamingo, standing on one leg probably isn’t something you do often. And depending on how old you are, you may be surprised…

Discover simple daily habits that can help naturally reset your body’s internal clock, so you wake up feeling rested and refreshed. Getting enough sleep is essential for overall health and daily functioning. When sleep is lacking, it can become difficult to stay alert and perform everyday tasks. Many people struggle with daytime drowsiness and ongoing…

Some forms of exercise — such as running, cycling, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) — burn more calories per hour than others. If running isn’t your favorite, there are plenty of effective alternatives that still deliver a high calorie burn. For maximum calorie expenditure, running typically ranks at the top. However, activities like HIIT workouts,…

Key takeaways Some vitamins and minerals — including magnesium, vitamin B2, and vitamin D — may help lessen how often migraine attacks occur, how long they last, and how intense they feel. These effects are thought to come from reduced inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain. Other supplements, such as coenzyme Q10, feverfew, melatonin,…

Menopause may lead to oral issues such as burning mouth syndrome, gum inflammation, tooth sensitivity, and oral thrush. Fortunately, most of these conditions can be managed with proper oral care, medication, or home treatments. Menopause is commonly linked to symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes. However, many people don’t realize that…

A newly updated Cochrane review suggests that physical activity may be just as effective as therapy in reducing symptoms of depression. Because exercise is affordable, easy to access, and linked to many additional health benefits, it stands out as an appealing option for managing depression. A growing body of evidence shows that regular physical activity…

“It’s never too late.” It’s a phrase we hear often, but Meg VanderHeg is the living proof. A busy mother of three and a recent grandmother, Meg’s journey to becoming a personal trainer didn’t start in her 20s—it started after a life-changing battle with breast cancer. Now 52, Meg specializes in women’s health, helping others…