Just a decade ago, holistic medicine was still considered by many to be an outlier — a fringe interest reserved for yoga enthusiasts, herbalists,...

Few childhood treats scream “summer” like a brightly colored, ice-cold slushie. Whether enjoyed poolside, after sports practice, or as a sweet break on a hot day, these sugary frozen drinks are beloved by kids and adults alike. But behind their cheerful colors and frosty appeal lies a hidden risk—especially for young children. That risk is glycerol, a food additive used in many slush drinks to keep the ice soft and drinkable. Though it’s approved for food use in both the U.S. and Europe, glycerol can cause serious health issues in children when consumed quickly or in large quantities—often resulting in symptoms that mimic rare metabolic disorders. Recent research is now helping us understand exactly what happens...

At first glance, burning wood pellets may seem like a green solution—after all, wood is a natural material, right? And if it grows back, isn’t it renewable? That’s been the dominant narrative for years, especially in the wake of global efforts to shift toward renewable energy. But a deeper look reveals a more complex—and troubling—story. Across the Southeastern United States, forests are being cut down to feed a growing industry: wood pellet biomass. These compressed bits of pine and hardwood are exported by the millions, primarily to Europe, where they are burned to generate electricity. The UK, in particular, is a top consumer, thanks to the European Union’s Renewable Energy Directive, which classified wood pellets as...

In a world too often overwhelmed by crisis and division, hope has a way of quietly rising through the cracks. The stories making headlines this April remind us that behind every struggle lies the potential for transformation. Whether it’s life-changing medical breakthroughs, climate action momentum, or bold grassroots activism, the good news from around the world offers a renewed sense of purpose—and a reminder that positive change is possible. Ultrasound Breakthrough Ends a 30-Year Battle with Tremors For more than three decades, 72-year-old Orlando Avendaño from Palm Beach, Florida, lived with essential tremors so severe that he couldn’t hold a cup of water without using both hands. Everyday tasks like writing his name or eating with a...