The truth about emulsifiers: are they destroying our gut health?

The E numbers in food make bread softer and ice-cream silkier. But there is growing concern about how they might affect our microbiome

Flex your social muscles – and stick to one drink: 10 ways to be much more confident at parties

Have you become more stressed about big gatherings since the pandemic? You’re certainly not alone. Here is how to leave fear behind and have a great time

Let the bog snorkelling commence! 10 of the weirdest sporting events in the UK

From ferret racing to shinkicking, we round up some of the country’s most eccentric sporting events. Oddly, cricket isn’t among them …

The truth about inflammation: all you need to know about 2023’s hottest health topic, from causes to cures

Inflammation is the scourge of modern life, judging by all the supplements, workouts and diets that promise to fight it. But what precisely gets inflamed, and why – and is it always a bad thing?

‘I can still dance when I’m sober!’ My alcohol-free Glastonbury diary

On Saturday, I celebrated 365 days without booze. How would I cope, surrounded by thousands of well-lubricated strangers?

Is it possible to spot a good liar – and why do we all tell tales?

Most people are honest, but when I was lied to it left me questioning all my own opinions

Let’s chew it over: a look at gummy supplements

Bright, fun and tasty, there is now a ‘gummy’ for everything. But do these ‘candyceuticals’ offer any real benefits? Laura Potter looks into the booming chewables market to find out what we are actually being asked to swallow

‘I’m greatly energised afterwards’: readers tell us how they nap

Guardian readers talk us through their dozing habits, from a sharp 10 minutes after lunch to an hour with the cat at the weekend

Calls to make nap part of working day after latest study on brain benefits

Experts say allowing brief doze may help businesses and employees boost productivity as well as health

Naps are healthy, scientists say – so why has Spain given up on the siesta?

As study shows a daytime doze may help brain’s health, for Spaniards the idea is outdated and cliched