Does turmeric’s reputation translate into real health benefits?

Clinical trials show that curcumin, present in the spice, may help fight osteoarthritis and other diseases, but there’s a catch – bioavailability, or how to get it into the blood

Seven hours’ sleep is ideal amount in middle to old age, study finds

Too much and too little sleep linked with worse cognitive performance and mental health

Biologists warn against toxic SAMe ‘health’ supplement

Substance marketed online to ease range of joint and liver conditions, and to promote wellbeing, should not be used

Bless you! Meet the flu hunters trying to stop the next pandemic in its tracks

Remember flu? Despite lockdowns holding it at bay, a small group of scientists is searching the globe for deadly new strains – and to work out what to put in next winter’s vaccines

Dr Xand van Tulleken on the legacy of lockdown: Falling ill made me realise the true wonder of the NHS

The TV medic suffered complications after Covid and needed a heart operation. Only then did he understand the real value of a free-at-the-point-of-access healthcare system

‘Relentless calls and constant abuse’: why Britain’s vets are in crisis

Vets are no strangers to pressure, but Covid and the huge boom in pets means they have never been busier – or experienced so much stress

Study finds link between Alzheimer’s and circadian clock

Research raises hopes for new therapies that could help tackle disease and symptoms

Can a sick note make you better? Dr Gavin Francis on the power of convalescence

After serious illness, busy lives mean a proper convalescence is now a rarity. But a full and proper recovery takes time. GP and writer Gavin Francis reveals why a sick note can be a ‘powerful prescription’

Contact with nature in cities reduces loneliness, study shows

Loneliness is significant mental health concern and can raise risk of death by 45%, say scientists

Hot tub health kick: why a long bath is almost as good for you as a long run

Researchers have discovered that prolonged immersion in a piping hot bath has many of the same medical benefits as aerobic exercise