The perplexing rise of protein shakes: how a ‘meaty sludge’ became a billion-dollar industry

In 1865, the first ever protein-based product consisted of ‘melted-down beef hides and carcasses’. Now, there are countless shakes on the market – including one by a Michelin-starred chef. Why is everyone drinking them?

Which travel pillow gets the high score? I found out at the amusement arcade

Trains and buses were good, but video games were best for a pillow test. Plus, gift guides galore; cosy knitwear; and the 90s are back, back, back!

The one change that worked: I was burned out and stressed – then I found a steamy solution

After a bereavement and world events left me struggling to cope, I tried meditation, yoga and therapy. But it was my local sauna that helped me find peace and purpose

Why do people love spicy food – even when it hurts to eat it?

Tearing up, sweating and other bodily functions are all signs that the body is trying to expel spicy foods as quickly as possible. But there is a simple reason why some people enjoy those sensations

Is it true that … the harder you work out, the more you sweat?

Sweat levels can be misleading, and factors such as age, sex, humidity and even your clothes all make a difference

The nut secret: 14 easy, delicious ways to eat more of these life-changing superfoods

A handful of nuts a day can help manage obesity and reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and some kinds of cancer. Yet most of us don’t get enough. Here’s a no-fuss guide to getting your 30g a day

She left her desk job and walked 3,541 miles from Mexico to Canada: ‘Give yourself permission’

Jessica Guo hiked 30 miles a day, becoming the first woman to continuously hike two historic trails in a single season

‘You Britons go to the pub, we go to the swimming pool!’: the European health habits worth adopting

Daily swims, power naps and five meals a day – not tips from the latest hit wellbeing podcast, but longstanding traditions that have kept generations healthy in Iceland, Ukraine, France and more …

The best Christmas gifts for runners in the UK: 36 treats to buy the running enthusiast in your life

From pro athletes to parkrun faithfuls, runners of all stripes told us what gifts they would love to unwrap

Women must be warned of home birth risks and have access to skilled midwives, experts say

Exclusive: Pregnancy experts warn of inadequate medical advice and lack of safe and reliable care