Summary: In the context of nutrition, vitamins and minerals are molecules or chemical elements required by our organism in order to perform fundamental functions. The “the more the better” rule does not apply even for such (apparently) harmless substances. Healthy individuals often get the required amounts of these nutrients from a balanced diet. Dietary supplements might be necessary in specific […]
Summary: Most plastics cannot be recycled efficiently. Plastic waste is a global problem, especially in the oceans. Tiny microplastic particles from the oceans or landfill sites have been detected in wild animals and in drinking water. At the moment, it is unclear if microplastics pose a serious health risk to humans. Plastic is everywhere. It is in cars, in computers, […]
Summary: A growing worldwide population implies a huge increase in food production in the upcoming future. Other factors, such as extreme weather and reduced agricultural land availability, further complicate things. The development of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in the food industry can contribute to solving these challenges by e.g. improving crop yield. Many industries of the food compartment, from fast-food […]
Summary: Chemical is not a synonym for synthetic, but rather anything composed of chemical elements. Neither synthetic nor natural substances are by definition good or bad for our health. For any substance, the chemistry, as well as the intake amounts, make the difference. The advertisement of a fruit juice, recently posted on social media, states the following: “without addition of […]
Summary: Homeopathy is a form of complementary and alternative medicine based on the principles of ‘like cures like’ and heavy dilution of active substances. Despite extensive investigations, there is currently no scientific evidence that supports the effectiveness of homeopathic therapies in any context. Prescription or usage of homeopathy alternatively to evidence-based medicine therapies can – depending on the patient’s condition […]
Summary: The main goal of clinical trials is to test the safety of a medication and monitor any possible side effects or adverse events. Clinical trials consist of three phases before a medication can be approved for public use. There is a possibility of a fourth phase of clinical trials after the medication is approved and released into the market […]