https://patient.info/rss Latest updates from Patient.info FeatureArticle Copyright 2026 Patient.info We all know that if we consume excess calories and don't burn them off, our body stores them as fat. Many of us are also aware of our trouble spots - perhaps we're prone to gaining weight on our thighs, or around our middle. A little extra weight may not be harmful to your health, so how do you know if you're still in a healthy zone? Gillian Harvey https://patient.info/features/healthy-living/what-your-waistline-says-about-your-health doc_31961 2026-09-17T23:00:00.000Z Cortisol face has become a popular wellness trend, with the internet offering numerous explanations, diagnoses, and solutions to help us lower our cortisol levels. But what exactly is cortisol? Why does it matter, and can it really affect the appearance of your face? To find out, we asked a Harley Street doctor to explain more about this potentially misunderstood hormone, and how it affects our bodies. Hannah Boynton-Forshaw https://patient.info/features/healthy-living/cortisol-face-social-media-myth-vs-medical-reality 2xctxu6vZeA7lou0eK8uvg 2026-09-16T23:00:00.000Z Ultra-processed foods are associated with cancer, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Yet while some foods do increase your chance of developing these diseases, not all processed foods are as bad for you as you might think. Lydia Smith https://patient.info/features/diet-and-nutrition/which-ultra-processed-foods-are-good-for-you doc_32544 2026-09-15T23:00:00.000Z When it comes to building muscle, improving your core muscle strength has benefits that extend beyond toned abs. Core strength exercises can also give you better balance, stability, and good posture, and prevent or treat back pain. Better still, they can be performed in the comfort of your home, and there are many to choose from and incorporate into your exercise routine. Amberley Davis https://patient.info/features/healthy-living/how-to-strengthen-your-core doc_31808 2026-09-15T23:00:00.000Z Chicory root comes from a vibrant blue flower that looks a little like a dandelion. Beneath the flower lies a thick taproot that can be ground into a powder and brewed as a naturally caffeine-free alternative to coffee. But is chicory root actually good for you? We take a closer look at the potential benefits of swapping your usual coffee for this increasingly popular wellness drink. Victoria Raw https://patient.info/features/diet-and-nutrition/can-chicory-root-be-a-healthier-alternative-to-coffee 1of8Y7G3UXyqyxJMdH0DL0 2026-09-15T23:00:00.000Z Through her videos, social media platforms and podcasting work, Alexis has become a prominent voice in conversations around transgender visibility, relationships and modern life. She was recently named Gaydio Influencer of the Year. Matt Jameson & Christine Talbot https://patient.info/features/podcast/alexis-blake 7wwgXbDU7n3hvWg0sLCk4e 2026-09-15T00:00:00.000Z Jamie dedicated his entire playing career to his beloved Leeds Rhinos, becoming one of the defining figures of the club's most successful era. As part of the famous "Golden Generation" alongside the late Rob Burrow, Kevin Sinfield and so many other greats, Jamie helped the Rhinos win seven Super League Grand Finals, three World Club Challenges and a Challenge Cup, while also representing both England and Great Britain. His contribution to rugby league was recognised with an MBE. Matt Jameson & Christine Talbot https://patient.info/features/podcast/jamie-jones-buchanan OI67BOxYRWxuo0494LxMB 2026-09-08T00:00:00.000Z For most people, a mosquito bite is no more than an itchy nuisance. But for some people, a bite can trigger a much more dramatic reaction, with extensive swelling, redness, warmth, and itching that can last for several days. This reaction is known as Skeeter syndrome. Heather Ainsworth https://patient.info/features/allergies-blood-immune/skeeter-syndrome 1pxsthBJw0MnC2piGXmWP1 2026-09-07T23:00:00.000Z Our ears do far more than let us enjoy music, laugh at a funny sound, or share jokes with friends. They help us stay alert to danger, support clear communication, and keep us connected to the world around us. While we might sometimes choose to tune things out - like ignoring a partner’s request to take out the rubbish - real hearing loss is no joke. It can be life-changing and debilitating, so it’s important to protect your hearing in any healthy way you can. Victoria Raw https://patient.info/features/ear-nose-throat/sound-advice-6-ways-to-safeguard-your-hearing 2MGlrYD88ibwTjaYHjfV4j 2026-09-03T23:00:00.000Z They may be unwelcome at our picnics and pub garden lunches, but the health of the bee population plays an important role in our own health and wellbeing. Let's take a moment to look beyond the fear of being stung and at the unique behaviours that make these small insects so interesting. Amberley Davis https://patient.info/features/general-health/5-benefits-of-bees-for-your-health doc_32061 2026-09-03T23:00:00.000Z