The unlikely appeal of barefoot hiking: ‘It makes you feel quite primal’

From clay trails in Seoul to remote Australian coastlines, a small but growing number of hikers are hitting the trail unshod. But what happens when you feel the ground beneath your feet?

‘Traceability is vital’: labs test thousands of unregulated substances amid peptide craze

Experts warn consumers of unknown risks as one lab says about a third of samples fail basic quality checks

Trying to conceive? Welcome to the worry-filled world of ‘trimester zero’

An army of ‘pregnancy prep’ influencers is offering would-be parents everything from sensible advice to quackery and questionable supplements. What’s really needed?

My teenage daughter’s OCD keeps getting worse. What can I do?

Cognitive behavioural therapy may help her to cope with her anxiety and learn that she doesn’t need to respond to intrusive thoughts

What are peptides, are they safe and is there evidence to back up the hype?

Influencers and athletes are among those claiming substances can help with injury repair, weight loss and angi-ageing

Medicines watchdog to investigate UK peptide clinics over health claims

Exclusive: Guardian investigation finds several clinics making potentially unlawful claims about benefits of unregulated therapies

‘Wild west’ reformer pilates boom is causing rise in injuries, experts warn

Lack of regulation for specialist classes leaves UK fitness enthusiasts at risk, say professional bodies

Yes, allergy season has already started. Here’s how to manage symptoms

Pollen seasons are now ‘longer and more intense’, say experts. Here is what to know about allergy treatments and when to seek medical help

Stop the brain rot! 12 ways to stay sharp in a mind-frazzling world

Feel like too much low-quality screen time is making you … dumber? From focusing on your environment to ‘washing’ your brain, experts share tips on how to sharpen up and keep your mind fighting fit

How rotten is your brain?

Take our quiz to find out how bad your brain rot is