Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing it with probiotics and prebiotics, aiming to create a treat that satisfies cravings while supporting gut health. 



The challenge lies in maintaining chocolate's beloved texture and flavor while adding health benefits.



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Probiotics - beneficial microbes that balance gut bacteria and aid digestion - are typically fragile and can be destroyed by stomach acid or processing. 



Prebiotics act as food for these microbes, helping them thrive. Together, they form "synbiotics," a powerful health combination.



Researchers Smriti Gaur and Shubhi Singh from India's Jaypee Institute of Information Technology took an innovative approach, using natural prebiotics like corn and honey instead of complex processing methods. 



They created five chocolate varieties: a control and four synbiotic versions containing different combinations of prebiotics, probiotics (Lactobacillus strains), and flavor enhancers (cinnamon or orange).



Laboratory simulations of human digestion showed the probiotics remained viable for over five hours, suggesting they could survive long enough to benefit gut health.



Taste tests were positive, with researchers particularly enjoying the orange-flavored variety, describing it as having "vibrant citrus notes" complementing the "rich cocoa" with a "luxurious" texture.



This research represents just the beginning. With further refinement of strains, textures, and flavors, chocolate could evolve beyond mere indulgence to become a functional food that nourishes while it delights.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsfoodscitech.4c00741" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Food Science &amp; Technology</a>.

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing it with probiotics and prebiotics, aiming to create a treat that satisfies cravings while supporting gut health. The challenge lies in maintaining chocolate's beloved texture and flavor while adding health benefits. https://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3 Probiotics - beneficial microbes that balance gut bacteria and aid digestion - are typically fragile and can be destroyed by stomach acid or processing. Prebiotics act as food for these microbes, helping them thrive. Together, they form "synbiotics," a powerful health combination. Researchers Smriti Gaur...

In the waters of Lake Malawi, a single group of fish has evolved into over 800 different species in just a few million years. This rapid and concentrated evolutionary explosion has long puzzled scientists.



Now, researchers have uncovered a powerful genetic mechanism that may explain how such extreme <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-mitigation-strategies-may-be-endangering-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a> can arise so quickly.



A recent study led by scientists from the Universities of <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cambridge</a> and <a href="https://www.uantwerpen.be/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antwerp</a> reveals that large chunks of reversed, or “flipped,” DNA in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/curiosity-of-cichlid-fish-boosts-biodiversity-in-lake-tanganyika/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cichlid fish</a> act like evolutionary accelerators.



These chromosomal inversions preserve key genetic traits across generations and help fish adapt swiftly to new habitats - fueling the formation of new species at remarkable speed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-shortcut-in-our-genes">The shortcut in our genes</h2>



“Why are there so many different kinds of animals and plants on Earth?” is a question that has guided evolutionary biology for centuries.



In the case of Malawi’s cichlids, all 800-plus species share a common ancestor. Yet they’ve diversified into everything from algae-grazers to sand-sifters to open-water predators - all within the confines of one lake.



To understand this phenomenon, the researchers examined the genomes of over 1,300 individual cichlids. Some species had flipped DNA sections across five chromosomes - a genetic anomaly called a chromosomal inversion.



“We discovered that, in some species, large chunks of DNA on five chromosomes are flipped - a type of mutation called a chromosomal inversion,” said senior author Hennes Svardal from the University of Antwerp.



Ordinarily, recombination reshuffles <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oldest-human-dna-ever-found-tells-story-of-lost-branch-on-human-neanderthal-family-tree/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA</a> each generation by mixing genetic material from both parents.



But inside these chromosomal inversions, the structure blocks recombination. As a result, organisms inherit linked gene sets together, preserving adaptations that function effectively as a group.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fish-supergenes-lock-in-traits">Fish supergenes lock in traits</h2>



“It’s sort of like a toolbox where all the most useful tools are stuck together, preserving winning genetic combinations that help fish adapt to different environments,” said Moritz Blumer from Cambridge’s Department of Genetics.



These preserved gene clusters, or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supergenes-drove-the-rapid-spread-of-common-ragweed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supergenes</a>, help explain how diverse cichlid fish evolve while sharing the same lake. In sandy lake beds, inversions limit gene mixing, helping preserve each species’ unique adaptations despite a lack of barriers.



The supergenes govern traits essential to survival: vision, hearing, feeding behavior, and more. For instance, fish that live in the lake’s deep waters - some as far down as 655 feet (200 meters) - require specialized vision to navigate dim light.



They also need unique diets to survive in the nutrient-poor depths and physiology to withstand high pressure. Their supergenes lock in those abilities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supergenes-in-fish-interbreeding">Supergenes in fish interbreeding</h2>



Another advantage of these DNA inversions is that they can transfer wholesale between species when different cichlids <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/28000-year-old-hybrid-child-confirms-interbreeding-between-humans-and-neanderthals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interbreed</a>. This spreads entire suites of beneficial traits in one stroke.



“When different cichlid species interbred, entire inversions can be passed between them - bringing along key survival traits, like adaptations to specific environments, speeding up the process of evolution,” Blumer said.



This genetic mechanism lets adaptations transfer between species, speeding evolution without needing to evolve traits independently each time.



Researchers found these inversions often act as sex chromosomes, determining whether a fish develops as male or female. Because sex chromosomes drive speciation, this finding adds complexity to how cichlids diversify so rapidly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-going-beyond-fish">Going beyond fish</h2>



“While our study focused on cichlids, chromosomal inversions aren’t unique to them,” said co-senior author Richard Durbin, a professor at Cambridge’s Department of Genetics.



“They’re also found in many other animals - including humans - and are increasingly seen as a key factor in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolution-is-not-as-random-as-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a> and biodiversity.”



These findings reveal new ways to study the genetics of speciation. This applies not just to fish, but across all branches of the tree of life. Supergenes and inversions may be more than just quirks of DNA - they could be among evolution’s most powerful tools for generating new forms and functions.



“We have been studying the process of speciation for a long time,” Svardal said. “By understanding how these supergenes evolve and spread, we’re getting closer to answering one of science’s big questions: how life on Earth becomes so rich and varied.”



The study shows how a DNA twist can speed evolution, offering a key clue to the mystery of biodiversity. It also reveals that sometimes, nature hides its most elegant solutions in its smallest structures.



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Genetic ‘supergenes’ power explosive evolution in some fish

In the waters of Lake Malawi, a single group of...

For many people, the idea of combining a psychedelic substance with organized religion may sound like a stretch. Yet a team of researchers recently <a href="https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/psymed.2023.0044" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">investigated</a> the effects of psilocybin on spiritual leaders across several faith traditions, hoping to learn how this compound might influence well-being and religious attitudes.



The experts enrolled clergy from major world religions in a study comparing those who received psilocybin sessions with those who did not. 



The late <a href="https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/newsroom/news-releases/2023/10/roland-griffiths-pioneering-psychedelic-researcher-dies" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Roland Griffiths</a> from <a href="https://www.jhu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johns Hopkins University</a> was one of the scientists at the center of this project, ensuring careful protocols and ethical oversight.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-psilocybin-affects-the-brain">How psilocybin affects the brain</h2>



Psilocybin is the primary compound in certain types of mushrooms. It belongs to a group called <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/serotonergic-psychedelic" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">serotonergic psychedelics</a>, which means it interacts with a specific set of receptors in the brain. 



A growing body of clinical <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00213-017-4771-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">work</a> has explored its effects on mood, mental health, and personal meaning. <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0269881116675512" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Research</a> suggests that psilocybin can prompt introspection and feelings of connectedness. 



Some participants in past studies have described enduring changes in perspective. These trials have followed standard safety measures and were typically supervised by professionals trained in guiding the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psychedelic-ibogaine-can-now-be-produced-without-rare-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">experience</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-religious-leaders-joined-psilocybin-trial">Religious leaders joined psilocybin trial</h2>



Clergy hold leadership roles in their faith communities. They often counsel congregants and guide spiritual practices. 



The researchers wanted to determine if psilocybin-assisted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psychedelic-drug-induces-feelings-of-oceanic-boundlessness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sessions</a> might shape the perspectives and effectiveness of these leaders in their day-to-day vocations.



According to the study, members of various denominations and faiths took part. Some received two psilocybin sessions spaced about one month apart, while others were placed on a waitlist. 



Afterward, each volunteer answered questions about spiritual awareness, prayer, and attitudes toward their beliefs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-religious-leaders-on-psilocybin">Religious leaders' on psilocybin</h2>



Participants were screened for physical and mental health conditions before the sessions. A comfortable setting was provided on the dosing days, including support from trained facilitators. 



Many of those who ingested psilocybin said it was among the most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-fungus-in-morning-glory-seeds-produces-lsd-like-compounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spiritually</a> significant experiences of their lives.



“Participants who had received psilocybin reported significantly greater positive changes in their religious practices, attitudes about their religions, and effectiveness as a religious leader,” stated Stephen Ross, from the NYU <a href="https://med.nyu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Grossman School of Medicine</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-spiritual-communities">Implications for spiritual communities</h2>



According to the study, improvements in daily spiritual practices and a sense of deeper connection with both one’s own faith and other religious traditions were still observed well over a year after the sessions. 



These trends suggest the psilocybin experience could potentially support religious work by offering fresh perspectives on matters of meaning and devotion.



On a non-religious level, many participants noted a positive shift in personal well-being. 



They reported mood improvements that continued as time passed. These outcomes highlight a pattern similar to previous psilocybin trials in different populations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reflecting-on-challenges">Reflecting on challenges</h2>



Not everyone’s journey during a psychedelic session is easy. The report acknowledged that psilocybin can bring about intense moments of worry or confusion. 



Careful screening and supervision seemed to reduce potential risks, with no serious adverse events reported.



Still, the authors cautioned against making sweeping generalizations. They pointed out that the research population was relatively small. 



The researchers also emphasized that self-selection and expectations might have shaped the experiences to some degree.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-lasting-changes-in-perspective">Long-lasting changes in perspective </h2>



The researchers noted that the results in clergy were broadly in line with past clinical studies of psilocybin in non-religious participants. 



In both cases, high-dose sessions led to long-lasting changes in behavior, perspective, and emotional health.



What made this trial unique was that the effects showed up in areas directly tied to religious leadership, such as prayer life, perceived vocational effectiveness, and tolerance of other faiths.



Compared to studies involving cancer patients or individuals with depression, the clergy participants tended to rate their sessions as more spiritually meaningful and less therapeutically intense. 



That could be due to the nature of their role or their prior exposure to sacred frameworks.



Still, about 42% described at least one session as among the most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/magic-mushrooms-are-the-most-popular-psychedelic-drug/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">psychologically</a> challenging experiences of their lives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-religious-studies-on-psilocybin">Future religious studies on psilocybin</h2>



This project invites more exploration of psilocybin’s role in religious contexts. Larger samples from diverse spiritual backgrounds may clarify how much culture and preexisting beliefs influence the session’s outcomes. 



Some may wonder whether these insights could inform religious education or help religious professionals facing burnout.



Any upcoming investigations are expected to follow rigorous guidelines. Researchers often stress that psilocybin should only be used in supervised studies or other lawful frameworks to minimize potential harm and misunderstanding.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-approaches-to-spiritual-care">New approaches to spiritual care</h2>



Faith leaders stand at a unique crossroads of tradition and human need. Studies like this one spark discussions about new approaches to spiritual care. 



They also add to the growing literature suggesting psilocybin’s potential for promoting introspection and community well-being.



It remains to be seen how religious organizations respond to these findings. Some may embrace research aimed at enriching spiritual life, while others might remain cautious. 



Either way, the results open a conversation about how substances like psilocybin could interact with centuries of established rituals and beliefs.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/psymed.2023.0044" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Psychedelic Medicine</a>.



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Religious leaders of all faiths ate 'magic mushrooms' in a scientific study, and it changed their lives

For many people, the idea of combining a psychedelic substance...

Mercury levels in Arctic animals keep climbing even though the world has reduced new emissions. A new study shows that mercury already in the ocean is drifting northward on century-long currents and silently refueling pollution.



Researchers from <a href="https://international.au.dk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aarhus University</a> and the <a href="https://www.ku.dk/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Copenhagen</a> analyzed more than 700 samples collected across Greenland.



The experts compared modern tissues from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/international-polar-bear-day-keeping-moms-and-cubs-safe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polar bears</a>, seals, fish, peat, and even 40-year-old archives, then matched each sample’s six mercury isotopes - slight atomic variants that act like barcodes - to known ocean pathways.



“These isotope signatures act like fingerprints, revealing the sources and transport pathways of mercury,” explained lead author Jens Søndergaard, a senior researcher at Aarhus.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-old-emissions-ride-ocean-loops">Old emissions ride ocean loops</h2>



When smokestacks or gold mines release mercury, the vapor can circle the globe for a year before it falls out of the air. Once it sinks into seawater, however, the metal can linger for three hundred years.



The new study shows that this “legacy mercury” is now the main supplier to the Arctic. Water entering central West Greenland rides the North Atlantic’s Irminger Current and arrives with a different isotopic stamp than water feeding the north and east coasts, which drifts down from the Arctic Ocean.



In regions swept by the Atlantic branch, animals carry less total mercury but show higher values of the heavy isotope δ202Hg. Farther north and east, concentrations are higher and the isotope mix points to older Arctic stores.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mercury-climbs-in-arctic-predators">Mercury climbs in Arctic predators</h2>



Scientists have tracked Arctic mercury since the late 1970s, hoping to see a decline after many countries ratcheted down pollution.



Instead, concentrations in polar bears and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/newly-discovered-species-of-toothed-whale-is-the-earliest-ancestor-of-modern-dolphins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">toothed whales</a> are now twenty- to thirtyfold above pre-industrial levels.



“We’ve monitored mercury in Arctic animals for over 40 years. Despite declining global emissions since the 1970s, we see no corresponding decrease in Arctic concentrations - on the contrary,” said senior author Rune Dietz, an ecologist at Aarhus.



The new isotope data show why: mercury carried by currents can take up to a century and a half to reach Greenland.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-isotopes-trace-mercury-s-path">Isotopes trace mercury's path</h2>



Mercury atoms come in several naturally occurring forms that differ slightly in mass. Industrial smokestacks, volcanic plumes, rivers, and ocean chemistry each leave a characteristic mix.



By scanning these mixes in muscle, fur, and ancient peat layers, the team drew a map of hidden routes. In central West Greenland the isotope blend matches Atlantic inflow; in north-eastern sites it matches the high-mercury Arctic Basin.



The peat cores also tell a time-lapse story: layers laid down in recent centuries hold heavier isotopes than layers deeper in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/permafrost-thaw-is-a-rising-threat-to-arctic-communities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">permafrost</a>, confirming that modern pollution is still piling up.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-impacts-of-mercury">Health impacts of mercury</h2>



“Mercury affects the immune system, reproduction, and possibly sensory functions in animals, which can impact their survival,” said co-author Christian Sonne, a professor at Aarhus.



Seals, polar bears, and seabirds already harbor levels linked to suppressed immunity and hormonal disruption. 



Indigenous communities that rely on marine mammals for food face the same toxic threat. With mercury reservoirs still drifting north, even the toughest emission cuts may not deliver quick relief.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-arctic-slow-to-reflect-progress">Arctic slow to reflect progress</h2>



The <a href="https://minamataconvention.org/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">United Nations Minamata Convention</a> aims to curb new mercury emissions. The Danish team’s work explains why Arctic numbers refuse to fall despite progress elsewhere.



Ocean inventories of legacy mercury - much of it released during the 19th- and 20th-century coal age - are simply too vast and too slow-moving. Any evaluation of the treaty’s success, the authors warn, must account for that time lag.



The group is expanding its isotope surveys through the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbial-awakening-arctic-food-webs-are-transforming-from-green-to-brown/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GreenPaths project</a> and collaborating with international programs such as WhaleAdapt to follow mercury’s course through other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbial-awakening-arctic-food-webs-are-transforming-from-green-to-brown/">Arctic food webs</a>.



By stitching together isotope records from peat, glaciers, rivers, and marine life, they hope to predict hotspots years before the pollutant arrives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-can-be-done-now"><a></a>What can be done now?</h2>



Reducing modern mercury still matters; every gram kept out of the water is one less gram entering the conveyor belt.



But policymakers must pair emission goals with long-term monitoring, dietary guidance for northern communities, and studies on how climate-driven shifts in currents could speed or slow the toxic flow.



The lesson is stark: once mercury reaches the sea, it becomes a traveler with no passport expiry. And as the new isotope “fingerprints” show, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forever-chemicals-threaten-arctic-wildlife-and-human-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arctic’s wildlife</a> - and the people who depend on it - will keep feeling the aftershocks of 19th- and 20th-century pollution well into the 22nd.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-60356-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Mercury pollution rides ocean currents north, threatening Arctic wildlife

Mercury levels in Arctic animals keep climbing even though the...

Eating more fruit, vegetables, and other complex carbohydrates during the day appears to deliver measurable improvements in sleep that very same night. 



A new study tracking healthy adults shows that a produce-rich menu reduces the overnight tossing and turning that fragments restful sleep.



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Chicago Medicine</a> and <a href="https://www.columbia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Columbia University</a> designed the experiment to move beyond earlier surveys and link specific daytime meals to the quality of that evening’s rest.



“Dietary modifications could be a new, natural, and cost-effective approach to achieve better sleep,” said co-senior author Dr. Esra Tasali, director of the UChicago Sleep Center.



“The temporal associations and objectively measured outcomes in this study represent crucial steps toward filling a gap in important public health knowledge.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-what-you-eat">Tracking what you eat</h2>



Most previous work looked at how poor sleep drives people toward sugary, high-fat foods. The new project flipped the question: could consciously better eating shape sleep for the better?



Volunteers logged everything they consumed on a smartphone app and wore wrist monitors that recorded every micro-awakening, using a measure called “sleep fragmentation” to gauge quality.



Those fragmentation readings, calculated in minute-by-minute detail, allowed the team to compare how each individual slept after a produce-rich versus a produce-poor day.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fruit-bowls-pay-off-for-sleep">Fruit bowls pay off for sleep</h2>



The analysis revealed a clear pattern. When participants approached or met the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a> guideline of five cups of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fruits-and-plants-are-powerful-allies-for-disease-prevention/">fruits</a> and vegetables, they spent more time in uninterrupted, restorative phases of sleep.



Whole-grain intake had a similar, albeit smaller, association. For someone eating no produce, making the leap to five cups predicted a 16 percent reduction in sleep fragmentation.



“Sixteen percent is a highly significant difference,” said Dr. Tasali. “It’s remarkable that such a meaningful change could be observed within less than 24 hours.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-fruits-and-veggies-help-sleep">Why fruits and veggies help sleep</h2>



Scientists are still untangling the biology behind these rapid gains. Fiber-rich foods slow digestion and stabilize blood sugar, which can limit the nocturnal spikes that jolt the brain into lighter sleep.



Produce also delivers micronutrients that feed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gut-microbes-affect-how-we-handle-everyday-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gut bacteria</a>; those microbes generate neurotransmitters tied to the body’s circadian timing system.



Anti-inflammatory compounds may calm the cardiovascular system, nudging heart rate and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleeping-less-than-seven-hours-high-blood-pressure-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blood pressure</a> toward a sleep-friendly set point. 



Future trials will probe hormones, microbiome shifts, and brain-wave patterns to pin down the dominant pathway.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bigger-picture-sleep-lessons">Bigger picture sleep lessons</h2>



Compared with drug therapies, dietary tweaks carry almost no risk and cost little - a critical advantage at a time when chronic sleep loss undermines health, productivity, and mood for millions.



Participants in the experiment were young adults, but the design can be extended to older populations or people with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-extracts-may-help-treat-metabolic-syndrome/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">metabolic disease</a> to see whether benefits scale or shrink.



Because the monitoring was continuous, the authors could see changes night after night, opening the door to clinical trials in which the focus is on specific individuals who test how specific foods influence their own sleep.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-food-as-a-first-line-sleep-aid"><a></a>Food as a first-line sleep aid</h2>



Study co-senior author Dr. Marie-Pierre St-Onge is the director of the Center of Excellence for Sleep &amp; Circadian Research at Columbia University.



“People are always asking me if there are things they can eat that will help them sleep better,” said Dr. St-Onge. "Small changes can impact sleep. That is empowering - better rest is within your control.”



Public health agencies already push Americans toward produce for heart and metabolic health. The new findings give those guidelines a night-time payoff as well.



A 16 percent improvement translates to fewer awakenings, more consolidated deep stages, and a smoother transition into morning alertness - effects as large as some prescription sleep aids but without their side effects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tips-for-better-sleep">Tips for better sleep</h2>



The scientists plan randomized, controlled feeding studies in which subjects eat standardized meals under lab supervision, allowing causal conclusions. They also hope to enlist diverse age groups and cultural diets to confirm that the produce-sleep link holds across cuisines.



In the meantime, the message is straightforward: pack the day’s menu with colorful plants and unrefined grains.



If you normally skip <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-fruits-and-vegetables-improve-heart-health/">vegetables</a> at lunch, add a salad. Replace an evening snack of chips with berries. Substituting even one refined-carb serving with fruit nudged sleep metrics in the right direction during the trial.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-simple-habit-immediate-gains"><a></a>A simple habit, immediate gains</h2>



Modern life often pits sleep against work, screens, and stress - factors that feel out of personal control. Food choices, however, remain largely in our hands.



By aligning dinner plates with daytime energy needs and nighttime recovery, people can harness a basic element of lifestyle to reinforce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-the-color-of-light-impacts-our-internal-clocks-and-circadian-rhythms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">circadian rhythms</a>.



The experts emphasize that produce will not cure severe insomnia on its own, but it offers an accessible lever that begins to move the needle within a single sunrise-to-sunset cycle.



For anyone struggling to stay asleep, the produce aisle may be as valuable as the pharmacy shelf. A serving of spinach at lunch or a banana before bed could help stitch the night together, turning fragmented dozing into a more continuous, restorative sleep - one colorful cup at a time.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sleephealthjournal.org/article/S2352-7218(25)00089-0/abstract" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sleep Health</a>.



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Eating more fruits and vegetables will help you get better sleep

Eating more fruit, vegetables, and other complex carbohydrates during the...

Scientists have extracted genetic information from 400 medieval burials that date between the eighth and eighteenth centuries. Their work, which represents a large-scale analysis of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dna-from-9000-year-old-skeletons-disproves-migratory-waves-theory-from-south-africa/">DNA</a> from medieval times, has helped clarify how populations in different regions have changed over hundreds of years.



A few surprising results emerged, including details of early migrations and the unexpected detection of disease in fourteenth-century contexts. The findings show how genetic research can uncover hidden chapters of history.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-it-all-came-together">How it all came together</h2>



Researchers were drawn to the main square of <a href="https://www.visitsinttruiden.be/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sint-Truiden</a>, where excavations uncovered about 3,000 skeletons. Only a fraction of them were tested, but the study is still regarded as the largest medieval DNA analysis in the <a href="https://www.britannica.com/place/Low-Countries" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Low Countries</a>. 



At first, the scientists expected to see some mixture of genetic backgrounds, though they did not realize how much the earliest skeletons would stand out.



From the earliest medieval burials, experts identified a handful of individuals whose profiles matched populations from Scotland or Ireland. 



This raised questions about migration routes and settlement patterns during the early Middle Ages, since many historians believed only short-distance mobility was common in the region at that time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-changes-in-a-medieval-population">Genetic changes in a medieval population</h2>



Overall, there was a decline in genetic diversity in Sint-Truiden after the eleventh century, with the local population becoming more homogeneous. 



One reason may be fewer long-distance travelers settling there after the early medieval era. Another factor could be the shift toward local families intermarrying, producing a more uniform <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-genetic-mutation-has-given-rise-to-a-new-blood-group-mal-system/">genetic</a> signature.



Researchers also noted distinct burial zones. People buried closer to the abbey area carried a slightly higher proportion of ancestry from Gaulish sources, whereas others had more mixed heritage. 



Differences in relatedness were detected in some sections of the cemetery, pointing toward separate networks of families or visitors who arrived at various times.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-overlooked-chapter-of-plague">An overlooked chapter of plague</h2>



One startling clue was the identification of <a href="https://www.health.harvard.edu/a_to_z/plague-yersinia-pestis-a-to-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yersinia pestis</a>, the plague-causing bacterium. Earlier city <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27281573/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">records</a> for Sint-Truiden made no mention of plague in the fourteenth century, yet bones revealed molecular traces of that disease in five individuals. 



None of them were found in a mass burial, so it appears that they were interred in single graves.



DNA evidence from this medieval genetic analysis demonstrated the bacterium was present despite an absence of historical documents linking Sint-Truiden to the plague. 



Given the disease’s deadly impact throughout Europe, the city’s silence on this topic is notable. It highlights how a lack of written records can mask events that had real, if invisible, consequences for communities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-medieval-genetics-offer-unique-insights">Medieval genetics offer unique insights</h2>



Researchers observed that the cemetery caught the final remains of city residents from all walks of life. Despite a large excavation sample, only a modest number of pairs were close relatives. 



Instead, the data suggest Sint-Truiden’s population drew on a broad network of newcomers alongside longer-standing locals.



The presence of individuals from Scottish or Irish origins aligns with ideas about medieval <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.1518445113" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pilgrimages</a> or specialized tradespeople making their way across the Low Countries. 



Meanwhile, the local population likely carried a blend of Germanic and Gaulish ancestors, a balance that remained stable over the centuries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-diversity-and-historical-records">Human diversity and historical records</h2>



Findings hint that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wealth-inequality-began-shaping-human-societies-10000-years-ago/">medieval societies</a> were more cosmopolitan than once believed. Genetic data show how cultural exchanges may have spread across sea routes and land corridors. 



Scientists see parallels in other parts of northwestern Europe, where early medieval samples can be more varied than later populations in the same region.



The researchers also examined notable traits, such as those affecting vitamin D levels. 



Differences were observed between people with different ancestral backgrounds, though these details point to long-term processes instead of abrupt changes. Such observations match other paleogenomic <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7513766/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studies</a> from medieval Europe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-it-matters-today">Why it matters today</h2>



Ancient DNA studies offer a window onto health, migration, and local identity. Although later centuries saw more detailed written records, earlier periods remain murky. 



Such a large dataset from one city gives historians and anthropologists a clearer view of everyday life, disease exposure, and social patterns.



For Sint-Truiden, the revelation that plague existed in the fourteenth century underscores the limits of written evidence. It shows that archaeological science can fill gaps left behind by incomplete archives. 



Because these skeletons span many generations, they serve as a living timeline that captures snapshots of genetic trends across the medieval era.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-from-medieval-population-genetics">Learning from medieval population genetics</h2>



Scientists believe that more studies, both in Belgium and elsewhere, could challenge assumptions of isolated medieval communities. 



As labs refine methods to extract <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oldest-human-dna-ever-found-tells-story-of-lost-branch-on-human-neanderthal-family-tree/">DNA</a> from older bones, they expect to learn more about ancient mobility and cross-border interactions. 



These ideas can reshape how we understand town development, family ties, and the interplay between genetics and culture.



This research also highlights how population-level changes happen slowly. By following genetic clues, future work might link certain traits to the mixing of Gaulish and Germanic origins. 



Combining genetic data with archaeology and archival material continues to shape a deeper perspective on Europe’s past.



The study is published in <a href="https://genomebiology.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13059-025-03580-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Genome Biology</a>.



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Scientists decipher the genetic history of 400 medieval skeletons

Scientists have extracted genetic information from 400 medieval burials that...

Stress can disrupt normal sleep and muddle how we store new information. Researchers have spent years studying why tense events often leave people tossing and turning at night. 



Experts have also examined how stressful experiences might dull our ability to recall important details the next day.



Recent work on male mice offers hints that a part of the hypothalamus is critical in this process. The investigation was led by Dr. Shinjae Chung at the <a href="https://www.upenn.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Pennsylvania</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-stress-changes-brain-signals">How stress changes brain signals</h2>



Stress is not just an emotional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-prepares-the-brain-for-the-future-while-protecting-memories-of-the-past/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">response</a>. It involves physical changes in the brain that may set off a chain reaction. One target appears to be the paraventricular nucleus (<a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/physiology/articles/10.3389/fphys.2022.858941/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PVN</a>) of the hypothalamus.



This region helps the body cope with threats. It releases certain hormones and signals when we feel under pressure. 



Once the PVN senses stress, researchers suspect it might shorten sleep and block healthy memory formation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-stress-targets-the-brain">When stress targets the brain</h2>



Neuroscientists have been curious about what happens after the PVN is stimulated. One branch connects to the lateral hypothalamus (<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/lateral-hypothalamus" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LH</a>), a nearby region known for regulating hunger and wakefulness. 



This link drew attention when specialists found that shifting PVN activity resulted in memory changes and altered <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-quality-could-be-the-key-to-better-metabolic-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep</a> patterns.



Scientists artificially stimulated neurons in the PVN and saw that these mice slept less than usual. They also struggled with <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30295349/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spatial object recognition</a>, a common test for memory.&nbsp;



“Activating CRHPVN neurons impairs memory performance and increases wakefulness, whereas inhibiting CRHPVN neurons during stress improves memory and sleep,” said Chung.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stress-reduces-sleep-and-weakens-memory">Stress reduces sleep and weakens memory</h2>



Shorter rest usually follows tense experiences, but that is only part of the issue. Memory deficits also appear when PVN neurons become highly active. 



Trial participants performed poorly when asked to recall certain objects placed in new locations. This drop in accuracy hints that any disruption around the hypothalamus might weaken how the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/teens-who-sleep-early-have-healthier-hearts-as-young-adults/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain</a> stores details.



The decreased rest may not be the only cause of spotty recall. Even minimal stress can nudge certain molecular pathways into overdrive. 



By controlling the flow of signals from the PVN to the lateral hypothalamus, the brain might be trying to preserve resources for survival. That shift in priorities can leave normal processes like memory taking a back seat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stress-disrupts-normal-sleep-cycles">Stress disrupts normal sleep cycles</h2>



The brain relies on a tight rhythm of sleep-wake cycles and memory consolidation routines. 



When stress activates <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-44163-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CRH neurons</a> in the PVN, it appears to interrupt these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/one-night-of-lost-sleep-can-trigger-hidden-health-issues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cycles</a> and reroute energy toward more immediate survival priorities.



This shift disrupts normal rest patterns and blocks the brain from processing memories efficiently. Over time, repeated interruptions could leave long-term effects on both mental clarity and emotional balance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-easing-stress-can-improve-sleep">Easing stress can improve sleep</h2>



Blocking or tempering these stress-linked neurons calmed the mice and offered a slight boost in rest. It also improved how well they recognized objects. 



These findings open the door to future research on targeted therapies that aim to ease the impact of pressure on the brain.



Many of these approaches focus on Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone (<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/corticotropin-releasing-hormone" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CRH</a>), which triggers a cascade of events linked to the stress response. 



Some investigators wonder if adjusting CRH signals in the <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2682920/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paraventricular Nucleus of the Hypothalamus</a> circuit might restore healthier sleep patterns while keeping memory sharp.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-these-findings-matter">Why these findings matter</h2>



Modern life bombards many people with deadlines and worries. Sleepless nights often follow tough days, and simple tasks can start to feel impossible without proper rest. 



Studies in mice are not an exact blueprint for human physiology, but they give researchers a place to start.



These findings may help in efforts to protect the brain from the draining effects of chronic tension. They could also guide the design of new options for those whose work or daily environment pushes them to their limits. 



More systematic research is underway to see if any therapies can safely quiet these crucial neurons.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stress-and-sleep-links-across-genders">Stress and sleep links across genders </h2>



While this study focused on male mice, the question of how these findings apply to females remains open. 



The brain’s stress circuitry can vary based on sex, especially in regions that regulate hormone signaling and emotional processing.



Future research will need to explore whether females show the same paraventricular nucleus (PVN) to lateral hypothalamus (LH) responses under stress. 



It is possible that different neural circuits play a larger role in how stress affects sleep and memory in female subjects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-step-toward-future-therapies">A step toward future therapies</h2>



Scientists are keen on translating these results to help individuals who deal with ongoing stress, especially those with anxiety disorders or memory complaints. 



More work is necessary to figure out how often people’s hypothalamic circuits might become overworked. Timing, dosage, and potential side effects still need thorough investigation.



Short bursts of stress can be useful, but constant strain is another story. This pathway might become a spotlight for therapies aiming to preserve healthy slumber and protect our ability to remember new information.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.jneurosci.org/content/early/2025/05/30/JNEUROSCI.2146-24.2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JNeurosci</a>.



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Stress hijacks the brain, disrupting sleep and memory

Stress can disrupt normal sleep and muddle how we store...

Brilliant,Young,Mathematician,Approaches,Big,Blackboard,And,Thinking,About,Sophisticated

Mathematics usually feels universal, certain, and free from drama. Numbers don't pick sides, theories don't hold grudges, and proofs don't belong to nations, at least, that's the idea.



But math sometimes surprises us, as the curious case of <a href="https://www.kurims.kyoto-u.ac.jp/~motizuki/top-english.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shinichi Mochizuki</a>’s controversial proof illustrates. It's a math puzzle wrapped in human drama, wrapped in cultural misunderstanding, and at its heart lies the <a href="https://mathworld.wolfram.com/abcConjecture.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">abc conjecture</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-exactly-is-the-abc-conjecture">What exactly is the abc conjecture?</h2>



At its core, the abc conjecture is about how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-discover-a-better-way-for-kids-to-learn-math/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">numbers</a> behave when added and multiplied. Let's say we have three numbers: a, b, and c, where a + b = c, and they're whole numbers or <a href="https://www.cuemath.com/numbers/integers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">integers</a>.



Now, factor each number down to its basic building blocks, its <a href="https://www.cuemath.com/numbers/prime-factorization/">prime factors</a>. If we multiply together all the different prime factors of a, b, and c, the result usually exceeds c. 



For instance, 12 + 21 = 33; the prime factors (2, 3, 7, 11) multiply up to 462, far larger than 33 itself.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-the-mochizuki-proof-matters">Why the Mochizuki proof matters</h2>



The abc conjecture, proposed 40 years ago, isn't just number play. 



Solving it means unlocking several other math mysteries, including a simpler proof of the famous <a href="https://mathworld.wolfram.com/FermatsLastTheorem.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fermat's Last Theorem</a>, a legendary problem that puzzled <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mathematicians-may-have-solved-a-125-year-old-problem-linking-the-laws-of-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mathematicians</a> for centuries until <a href="http://www.scienzamedia.uniroma2.it/~eal/Wiles-Fermat.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Andrew Wiles</a> cracked it in the 1990s.



Given its enormous significance, mathematicians sat up when Mochizuki claimed he'd cracked it back in 2012, using his Inter-universal Teichmüller (<a href="https://ncatlab.org/nlab/show/inter-universal+Teichm%C3%BCller+theory" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IUT</a>) theory, a 500-page <a href="https://ems.press/journals/prims/articles/201525" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">proof</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mochizuki-s-complex-breakthrough">Mochizuki’s complex breakthrough</h2>



Mochizuki, a mathematician at Kyoto University, introduced IUT as a revolutionary way to understand numbers by moving them across mathematical "universes," altering and reconstructing them to gain new insights. A fascinating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/prime-numbers-discovery-upends-millennia-old-math-beliefs-security-issues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">concept</a>, but extremely difficult to grasp.



Since its introduction, IUT has mostly confused mathematicians outside Japan. Only a handful of Mochizuki’s students and collaborators in Kyoto claimed to fully understand it, causing frustration internationally.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-debate-over-mochizuki-s-math-proof">Debate over Mochizuki’s math proof</h2>



Things heated up in 2018. Two renowned mathematicians from Germany, <a href="https://www.math.uni-bonn.de/people/scholze/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Peter Scholze</a> (University of Bonn) and <a href="https://www.uni-frankfurt.de/115666234/Prof__Dr__Jakob_Stix">Jakob Stix</a> (Goethe University Frankfurt), flew to Tokyo specifically to understand Mochizuki’s proof.



After a detailed analysis, Scholze and Stix announced they'd discovered a <a href="https://www.math.uni-bonn.de/people/scholze/WhyABCisStillaConjecture.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">critical flaw</a> in the proof. Specifically, they challenged the logic behind Corollary 3.12: a pivotal section they claimed contained an unsupported logical leap.



Mochizuki and his followers fiercely disagreed. They dismissed Scholze and Stix’s critique, stating confidently that no error existed. 



In 2021, after years of controversy, Mochizuki’s papers were published officially in a reputable journal, <a href="https://ems.press/journals/prims" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Publications of the Research Institute for Mathematical Sciences</a>, where Mochizuki himself serves as editor-in-chief.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-joshi-adds-his-fix-to-the-abc-math-proof">Joshi adds his fix to the abc math proof</h2>



Just when it seemed the math community couldn't get more divided, <a href="https://math.arizona.edu/~kirti/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kirti Joshi</a>, a mathematician at the University of Arizona, stepped into the debate. Joshi argues that both sides (Mochizuki and Scholze/Stix) are incorrect in crucial ways.



Joshi believes Mochizuki’s theory has genuine value but is incomplete because Mochizuki didn’t properly define certain key structures (called <a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/2210.11635" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">arithmetic holomorphic structures</a>). 



Joshi offers an improved <a href="https://math.arizona.edu/~kirti/qa.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">version</a>, claiming to complete the gaps Mochizuki left behind, essentially "fixing" the critical Corollary 3.12.



In a strongly-worded recent paper titled <a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/2505.10568" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Final Report on the Mochizuki-Scholze-Stix Controversy</a>, Joshi concludes that Scholze and Stix's critique is mathematically false. 



He boldly declares that the abc conjecture is indeed proven, provided his enhancements are accepted.



Mochizuki, however, hasn’t embraced Joshi’s corrections warmly. He harshly dismissed Joshi’s findings as profoundly misguided, adding yet another layer of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/simple-math-explains-how-big-crowds-keep-moving/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complexity</a> and conflict.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-so-who-is-right">So, who is right?</h2>



Here’s the rub: Mathematics typically prides itself on clarity and consensus, but here, cultural and personal conflicts have created two competing realities. 



Most mathematicians worldwide believe Scholze and Stix correctly identified a critical flaw. Yet, in Kyoto, a small but stubborn group insists otherwise, continuing to promote IUT as groundbreaking and flawless.



Joshi sits somewhere in between, asserting he has the true solution to unite the mathematical community. But the hostility and entrenched positions may be too deep to reconcile.



Interestingly, technology might offer the cleanest solution. Formal proof-checking software can theoretically verify each step of a mathematical proof mechanically, eliminating human biases. 



But converting Mochizuki’s intricate IUT into a computer-readable format is dauntingly complex, potentially more difficult than the original proof itself.



Until AI-driven formal checkers advance significantly, the mathematical world might remain split.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-drama-in-a-math-proof">Human drama in a math proof</h2>



Math is often viewed as the purest form of objective reasoning. Yet, the abc conjecture controversy vividly demonstrates that math is profoundly human. 



Ego, misunderstanding, nationalism, and communication failures have all played roles in this extraordinary story.



Rather than simple right or wrong, the situation illustrates how deeply human emotions influence even the most logical of fields. 



And in the end, maybe that's the real lesson of Mochizuki’s baffling proof: even in math, we're still just humans figuring things out, and sometimes arguing loudly about it.



The study is published in <a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/2505.10568" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Publications of the Research Institute for Mathematical Sciences</a>.



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Controversial math proof divides experts in bitter academic dispute

Mathematics usually feels universal, certain, and free from drama. Numbers...

In one of the largest analyses of veteran medical records, experts have uncovered patterns that point to significant differences in dementia risk from one region of the United States to another.



The researchers used long-term data on more than one million older adults to highlight how location may link to memory-related health conditions.



The findings come from a study led by experts at the <a href="https://www.ucsf.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, San Francisco</a>. The team evaluated information spanning over two decades, offering detailed insights on where rates of this condition appear to rise more steeply.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mapping-the-risk-of-dementia">Mapping the risk of dementia </h2>



The researchers compared several key regions to a Mid-Atlantic reference category, analyzing how frequently dementia appeared. There were substantial differences, even when accounting for health factors like cardiovascular disease.



According to the data, the Southeast region showed a 25% higher rate than the Mid-Atlantic. 



The Northwest and Rocky Mountains both measured a 23% increase, followed by the South at 18% higher. The Southwest recorded a 13% rise, and the Northeast posted a 7% growth in dementia cases. 



Another striking aspect of the research was its inclusion of both rural and urban communities. 



Many assumed that people in cities might get earlier diagnoses, while those in remote towns might face more barriers to care. The results suggest that the overall regional gap remains, regardless of population density.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-at-the-numbers">Looking at the numbers</h2>



Experts have noted the importance of distinguishing dementia, which involves issues with thinking and daily function, from normal aging. 



Over six million Americans are believed to be living with <a href="https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/facts-figures" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory-related conditions</a>, based on the latest estimates. 



“The study underscores the need to understand regional differences in dementia and the importance of region-specific prevention and intervention efforts,” said Dr. Kristin Yaffe, senior author of the research paper. 



The experts plan to delve deeper into the reasons behind these geographic disparities, but this study offers a map of where new cases emerge more often.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-local-factors-may-increase-dementia-risk">Local factors may increase dementia risk</h2>



These findings encourage a careful look at local factors that might increase the risk. A closer examination could involve social conditions, such as education opportunities or consistent access to nutritious foods.



“Quality of education, early life conditions, and environmental exposures may be among those factors,” said Dr. Christina Dintica, lead author of the study. 



Dr. Dintica plans to build on these observations in collaboration with other scientists to clarify what triggers or accelerates cognitive impairment in certain areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategies-for-early-intervention">Strategies for early intervention </h2>



Some professionals suggest that regional differences might reflect variations in diagnostic practices. 



Since many people rely on the <a href="https://www.va.gov/health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Veterans Health Administration</a>, there is a growing call for uniform screening tools that can identify problems in any setting.&nbsp;



Many focus on cardiovascular health and other physical conditions that impact brain aging. Approaches that integrate preventive care, like good blood pressure control, might reduce the risk.



These strategies could be critical because early intervention has shown promise in lessening the impact of memory-related conditions. 



Community organizations, local clinics, and broader public health campaigns can all work in tandem to educate people about signs of cognitive decline.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-targeted-outreach-to-reduce-dementia-risk">Targeted outreach to reduce dementia risk</h2>



Many families notice the toll that dementia takes on independence. When local healthcare resources lack specialized training, some conditions might slip through the cracks. 



As a result, individuals could miss early support that might preserve their daily functioning. Regional studies, like this one, help put a spotlight on areas that might benefit most from targeted outreach.



Some policy experts point to the wide range of lifestyles across the country. The study offers a framework for pinpointing regions that could strengthen their health services.



States with large rural regions face the challenge of connecting residents to regular checkups. Others with diverse populations may need culturally tailored tools for spotting early cognitive warning signs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supporting-healthier-communities">Supporting healthier communities </h2>



Researchers see these results as a call to coordinate local and national resources. They hope improved data sharing will inform doctors, public officials, and community advocates.&nbsp;



Updated screening efforts may yield earlier detection and help patients avoid complications. By understanding which locales show higher incidence, health professionals can adapt their strategies to serve those neighborhoods more effectively.



Some experts also predict new collaborations across state lines. Groups that have implemented successful brain health programs can show others how to replicate what works.&nbsp;



Early education campaigns that encourage mental stimulation, balanced diets, and regular exercise may reduce the risk. These factors can support a healthier population and lessen the overall burden on healthcare systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-research-directions">Future research directions </h2>



This project is considered an important step for pinpointing the unique factors that drive memory concerns in different parts of the country. Research teams plan to examine multiple angles, from air quality to job markets, to see how they might influence older adults. 



While some of these risk factors may overlap, clarifying their individual impact could improve healthcare planning.



The ultimate goal is to use this information to keep more people living independently in their communities. 



Whether through improved diagnosis, better treatment methods, or programs that promote social connectedness, knowledge of risk patterns can shape everything from local clinics to statewide policies.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/article-abstract/2834952" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Neurology</a>.



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Where you live may affect your dementia risk 

In one of the largest analyses of veteran medical records,...

In a world where health advice often changes by the season, it can be hard to keep up. Whether you’re into sports or simply hoping to stay active for the long haul, learning about a supplement called creatine can feel like a breath of fresh air.



Drinking plenty of water and making smart dietary choices might help, but many people still worry they’re missing something crucial. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-creatine-the-basics">Understanding creatine - the basics</h2>



Creatine is a natural substance your body uses for energy. It helps your muscles, brain, and other parts of your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fitness-is-far-more-important-than-weight-for-living-a-healthy-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">body work better</a>. 



Your body makes some creatine on its own, and you also get some from eating meat and fish. But not everyone gets enough - especially people who don’t eat much meat or fish.



If you don’t get enough creatine, it can affect your health. Kids and teens who don’t get enough may be shorter, weigh less, or have more body fat. 



Adults may have a higher chance of getting sick or having problems with memory and thinking. Some women might have more issues with pregnancy or their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-can-reshape-a-babys-brain-before-birth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reproductive health</a>. 



Older people with low creatine might have more trouble with heart health, thinking clearly, or staying strong. This new study digs much deeper into the health benefits of creatine.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-creatine-is-good-for-health">Why creatine is good for health</h2>



Dr. Richard Kreider from <a href="https://www.tamu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Texas A&amp;M University</a> is studying creatine as a natural compound, where it is found in meat and fish, that plays a key role in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fitness-tracking-apple-watch-is-helpful-but-not-always-right/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">energy</a> production. 



It converts into <a href="https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Phosphocreatine" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phosphocreatine</a>, which powers your cells when you’re pushing yourself in demanding workouts or dealing with daily stress.



It’s not only about lifting heavier or running faster. <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8228369/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Research</a> shows that being low in creatine can correlate with less lean mass, heightened body fat, and reduced athletic performance.



Experts have studied creatine for several decades, looking into its safety and effects on adults, children, and even older populations. One large <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15502783.2025.2488937" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> reported that plenty of individuals fail to get enough from diet alone.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-much-creatine-do-you-really-need">How much creatine do you really need?</h2>



“You only get about a gram of creatine per pound of red meat or fish, like salmon, so it’s expensive and takes a lot of calories to get a gram,” said Dr. Kreider. 



Our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-bursts-of-intense-exercise-can-slow-brain-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bodies</a> typically produce about one gram of creatine per day, which falls short of what most of us need.&nbsp;



Some <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5545206/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">researchers</a> suggest starting with five grams of creatine four times daily for about a week, and then reducing to 5 to 10 grams a day. This approach boosts creatine without relying solely on large quantities of meat or fish.&nbsp;



Your exact dose can depend on muscle mass, level of activity, and dietary habits. Whether someone is an athlete in heavy training or a retiree looking to stay active, practical guidance from a medical professional is often the best route.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-creatine-safe-nbsp">Is creatine safe?&nbsp;</h2>



“There’s absolutely no data supporting any negative side effect anecdotally reported about creatine on the internet and in the media,” said Dr. Kreider. Though you might have heard stories about bloating or cramps, these claims are unsubstantiated.&nbsp;



The recent comprehensive study, involved more than 600 trials, and saw no major uptick in side effects among creatine users compared to those taking placebos. 



Claims that creatine harms the kidneys or leads to long-term problems have not been supported by real-world research.



Still, as with anything else you put in your body, quality matters. Choosing products from reputable sources and verifying labels can help you steer clear of questionable ingredients.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clear-health-benefits-for-different-ages">Clear health benefits for different ages</h2>



As people grow older, maintaining <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-ai-artificial-intelligence-changing-health-diet-fitness-exercise-approach/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">muscle</a> mass and healthy cognition can get tricky. Researchers have observed that creatine, when taken consistently, may support muscle health and daily function in older adults.&nbsp;



Adolescents might also stand to gain. When diets fall short in providing the recommended two to four grams of creatine a day, kids could experience slower growth and higher body fat.&nbsp;



Working out isn’t the only time you rely on strong muscles. Everyday tasks like standing up from a chair, carrying groceries, and climbing stairs depend on maintaining muscle strength.



For those on plant-based diets, supplementing can make sense. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, you skip the top food sources of creatine (meat and fish), so a supplemental form can fill that gap more easily.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-health-and-creatine-supplements">Human health and creatine supplements</h2>



Some nutrition <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/books/reprint/5131-creatine-supplementation-for-health-and-clinical-diseases">experts</a> have probed links between creatine levels and mood, immunity, and even heart health. While the evidence is still growing, they see promise in using it alongside a balanced lifestyle.



The cost factor also comes into play. Buying high-quality red meat or fish every day can strain your wallet, while creatine supplements can be a cost-friendly way to meet your target intake.



Even though you can measure out a few grams of powder daily, it’s smart to pair creatine with a nutrient-rich diet. Complex carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats all work in tandem with creatine to energize your body.



Hydration is also crucial. Water helps your system manage nutrients, including creatine, and keeps you from running on empty. If you have any underlying health concerns, it’s wise to check in with a trusted professional to fine-tune your plan.



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15502783.2025.2488937" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition</a>.



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Doctors are singing the praises of this supplement, which has become very popular with both men and women

In a world where health advice often changes by the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Nushagak Bay, a large estuary in southwest Alaska. Nushagak runs mainly north to south and exits in Bristol Bay, a large body of water in the Bering Sea.



"The bay is primarily fed by the Nushagak River, which begins in the Alaska Range and flows southwest approximately 450 km. The bay is also fed by several additional rivers including the Wood, Igushik, Snake and Weary rivers," says ESA.



"The dark colors of the Nushagak River are most likely due to tannins or lignins (chemical substances found in plants). Tannins and lignins from roots, leaves, seeds, bark and soil can leach into the water and give it a brown or even black colour. The sediments then flow southwards where it is mixed with the bluer waters of the bay."



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> (ACS) reveals that proteins on flu viruses are actually flexible, tilting and waving in a “breath-like” motion. According to the experts, these proteins could be used to better defend against the flu.



"The main antigenic targets of influenza virus are two surface glycoproteins, hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Whereas the structural and dynamical properties of both glycoproteins have been studied previously, the understanding of their plasticity in the whole-virion context is fragmented," wrote the researchers.



To investigate, the team conducted detailed simulations of the influenza A H1N1 virion, or the swine flu. The experts concluded that the visualizations show many new vulnerable states of flu viruses, which could improve future vaccines and antiviral drugs.



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Lake Trasimeno, which is located west of Perugia in central Italy. It is the fourth largest lake in the country. While Trasimeno’s water level varies, it has a maximum depth of approximately six meters.&nbsp;



"In this Copernicus Sentinel-2 image, captured on 6 August 2022, the lake’s emerald green colour is likely due to the presence of phytoplankton. Streaks in the water, particularly visible in the west, indicate the presence of soil and sediments which have been stirred up by winds. Dark colored waters in the southern part of the lake indicate a presence of submerged and floating macrophytes (aquatic plants) as well as algae," says ESA.



"Surrounded by hills on three sides, Trasimeno is subject to heavy storms created by winds, especially from the north and west. There are three islets in the lake: Maggiore, Minore and Polvese (the largest). The lake’s shores are sparsely inhabited with only two popular villages: Castiglione del Lago and Passignano sul Trasimeno."



"Italy is experiencing its worst drought in 70 years which has affected drinking water supplies, hydroelectric power and agricultural production. High temperatures, hot winds and lack of rainfall are the main causes of drought in the Umbrian region which saw Lake Trasimeno’s drop 1.3 m, reaching the limit of the hydrometric zero in July 2022."



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> describes a new self-powered nanosensor that can instantly detect mercury contamination with the tap of a finger.&nbsp;



The oxidized form of mercury can be harmful when it is ingested through contaminated water or food. This makes it necessary for experts to develop sensors that can quickly and accurately detect the presence of mercury.&nbsp;



Zong-Hong Lin and colleagues have now created a triboelectric nanosensor (TENS) that can detect mercury by simply by touching a sample. According to the researchers, their TENS could serve as the basis for similar devices to safely and remotely monitor other pollutants.



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> explores the ability of salt to transform the way that foods and beverages taste. Salt is known to cover up undesirable flavors, such as bitterness in coffee or beer, but how exactly does sodium chloride change the taste of other compounds?



One previous study showed that, not only does salt suppress bitterness, but also enhances sweetness and sourness. Another study revealed that bitterness reduction by salt seems to be happening at the tongue receptor level as well as in the brain.&nbsp;



While it is known that salt taste is mediated by the presence of sodium channels in the form of taste buds, experts believe that there is also an unknown receptor responsible for how we taste salt that has not yet been identified.&nbsp;



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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How does salt makes things taste better?

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Santiago, the capital city of Chile. The city is located in the center of the Santiago Metropolitan Region, which has a population of about eight million people.&nbsp;



'The weather of Santiago resembles the Mediterranean climate with dry and warm summers with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (from October to March) and cool and humid winters that can drop to 0°C (from April to September)."



"The city lies in the centre of the country’s central valley around 80 km from the Pacific Ocean to the west and borders Argentina to the east. A tiny part of Argentina is visible in the top-right corner of the image where the mountain crest of the Andes Mountains acts as a divider between the two countries," says ESA.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Santiago, Chile in South America

[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Spiral,Galaxy,,Illustration,Of,Milky,Way

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Astronomers at <a href="https://www.jhu.edu/">Johns Hopkins University</a> have created an interactive map of the universe, including the actual position and real colors of 200,000 galaxies. The map allows the public to access data that was previously only available to scientists.



The map was developed using data collected by the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. For over two decades, a telescope in New Mexico was aimed at slightly different locations to capture the night sky.&nbsp;



"Growing up I was very inspired by astronomy pictures, stars, nebulae and galaxies, and now it's our time to create a new type of picture to inspire people," said map creator Brice Ménard, a professor at Johns Hopkins. "Astrophysicists around the world have been analyzing this data for years, leading to thousands of scientific papers and discoveries. But nobody took the time to create a map that is beautiful, scientifically accurate, and accessible to people who are not scientists. Our goal here is to show everybody what the universe really looks like."



"In this map, we are just a speck at the very bottom, just one pixel. And when I say we, I mean our galaxy, the Milky Way which has billions of stars and planets. We are used to seeing astronomical pictures showing one galaxy here, one galaxy there or perhaps a group of galaxies. But what this map shows is a very, very different scale."



"From this speck at the bottom, we are able to map out galaxies across the entire universe, and that says something about the power of science."



The <a href="https://mapoftheuniverse.net/">interactive map</a> is available online, where it can be downloaded for free.



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky" Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features northwest Lesotho in South Africa.



According to ESA, Lesotho is the only nation in the world that lies completely above 1,000 m in elevation. The country is famous for its tall mountains and narrow valleys, and is known as Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky."



Out of a population of around two million people, about 80 percent live in rural areas. More than 75 percent of these people are engaged in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-have-a-global-impact-on-agriculture/">agriculture</a>, including rainfed cereal production and animal grazing.&nbsp;



ESA reports that the country’s agricultural system faces a growing number of issues, with climate-related vulnerabilities such as drought, floods and extreme temperatures occurring more frequently. 



Diamonds are amongst the minerals found in the mountains. Indeed, Lesotho can truly be called the Kingdom in the Sky. Beautiful, culturally rich, safe, affordable, and easily accessible from Durban and Johannesburg, mountainous Lesotho is a vastly underrated travel destination. the Kingdom of Lesotho (Sotho: 'Muso oa Lesotho) is an enclaved country in southern Africa. It is just over 30,000 km2 (11,583 sq mi) in size and has a population of around 2 million.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer 



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Dublin, the capital and largest city of Ireland. Beyond its pub culture, Dublin is known as a modern culinary destination and a UNESCO City of Literature.



"Dublin is located near the midpoint of Ireland’s east coast in the province of Leinster. The city, which covers an area of around 115 square kilometers, is bordered by the Dublin Mountains, a low mountain range to the south, and is surrounded by flat farmland to the north and west," says ESA.



"The city straddles the River Liffey, which rises in the Wicklow Mountains and flows around 80 kilometers eastwards through the city of Dublin, in which it is canalised and bordered with quays. It then empties into Dublin Bay, an arm of the Irish Sea."



Dublin has an abundance of green spaces, including one of the largest enclosed public parks in any European capital city. Phoenix Park, which was originally formed as a royal hunting park in the 1660s, includes 707 hectares of green space.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain. The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission.



"Together with the provinces of Huesca and Teruel, Zaragoza formed the old kingdom of Aragon. Its capital, also called Zaragoza (not visible in this image) is home to around half of Aragon’s population," says ESA.



"The Ebro River can be seen winding its way through the province from west to east in this image. Between its source in the Cantabrian Mountains in the northwest and its delta on the Mediterranean coast, the Ebro River is fed by more than 200 tributaries as it flows 910 km across much of northern Spain."



Since rainfall is very scarce in this region, irrigation in the Ebro basin is critically important. In the valleys surrounding the Ebro River, many fields are used for growing crops such as corn, wheat, and barley.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> reveals the evolution of the Columbia Glacier in southeastern Alaska. Columbia is among the fastest shrinking glaciers in the world, and the video documents its rapid retreat over the years.&nbsp;



Columbia Glacier is a large, multi-branched calving glacier that flows out of the Chugach Mountains to the Prince William Sound.&nbsp;



According to USGS, Columbia had a long history of stability prior to 1980, with a length 41 miles, and small, short-lived advances or retreats.



In the years since 1980, however, satellite images have captured Columbia’s alarming retreat. By using false-color images, scientists can distinguish between snow and ice, open water, vegetation, and rocky debris on the glacier’s surface.



The series of false-color images featured in today's video were acquired over the span of 35 years. You can see that by 2021, the glacier’s main branch had retreated about 15 miles from its initial position.



The Columbia Glacier has also lost more than 50 percent of its volume, mostly due to calving. <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/nasa-reveals-3d-visual-of-an-atmospheric-river/">NASA</a> reports that while climate change likely started the retreat, mechanical processes kept the disintegration going.



The NASA images are provided by Jesse Allen, Robert Simmon, Joshua Stevens, and Lauren Dauphin using data from Landsat satellites, from the U.S. Geological Survey, and data from MODIS on NASA’s Terra satellite. The structure of Columbia’s moraine played a large role in the stability of the glacier before 1980. 



Like other tidewater glaciers, the Columbia built up a moraine over time, and the mixture of ice and rock functioned like a dam keeping out the sea. It was supported on one end by the shoreline and by the underwater terminal moraine at the other.



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory/&nbsp; NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the Pyrenees Mountains, which form a natural boundary between France and Spain in southwest Europe.



The mountain range is 430 kilometers in length. It stretches from the Mediterranean Sea on the east to the Atlantic Ocean on the west.



At an elevation of 3404 meters, Pico de Aneto is the highest mountain peak in the Pyrenees, and the third-highest peak in Spain. Pico de Aneto is located in the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park, which spans more than 82,000 acres.&nbsp;



"Geological studies have revealed that the Pyrenees Mountains have been around for longer than the Alps, with their sediments first deposited in coastal basins during the Paleozoic and Mesozoic eras," reports ESA.



"The entire mountain range formed due to the upwelling of large sedimentary rocks by the collision of the Iberian and the Eurasian plate around 100 to 150 million years ago, followed by intense erosion from ice and water."



The western Pyrenees receive more precipitation due to moisture blowing in from the Atlantic Ocean. The mountain range contains many lakes, several small glaciers, and some of the highest waterfalls in Europe.



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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