Wellness
Why Letting Your Rice Go Cold Might Be Better for Your Body
Cooling your rice, pasta, or bread may do more than change the texture—it can transform the starch into a gut-friendly, slow-digesting compound called resistant starch. New science and old traditions like toryeom and nurungji show us why.
Korean Study Finds Ultra-Processed Foods Increase Disease Risk in Obese Kids
Seoul, South Korea – As diets increasingly shift towards convenience-driven options, a new study from the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) sounds an urgent alarm: ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are taking a toll on the health of South Korea's youth, especially those struggling with obesity. This research, spearheaded by the National Institute of Health (NIH) within the KDCA, reveals a concerning link between high UPF consumption and an increased risk of metabolic disorders, inclu
How Socioeconomic Disparities Shape Stomach Cancer Risks
South Korea faces a growing public health challenge: it has one of the highest rates of stomach cancer globally. While this disease has many contributing factors, one of the most significant is the country’s traditional diet, which is rich in salt-heavy, fermented foods like kimchi, soybean pastes, and pickled vegetables. Although these foods hold cultural significance, their high sodium content has been linked to a greater risk of stomach cancer. However, this health crisis isn’t driven by die
How Shared Meals Could Impact Couples' Brains and Lives
As couples spend time together, they inevitably begin to influence each other’s habits, tastes, and even emotional patterns. But could sharing meals over time also lead to a deeper, more subtle form of influence—on their brain function, mood, and overall health? According to recent research in neuroscience, nutrition, and the gut-brain axis, the answer may be yes. The concept that food influences the brain is not new, but research into the gut-brain axis—the communication system between the gut
How Asia is Battling Dementia
In "Picnic (2024)," a poignant Korean film, a group of elderly friends embarks on a simple outing to a scenic park—a ritual that should be filled with joy and nostalgia. Yet, as they wander through the lush greenery, the cracks in their memories begin to show. The camera lingers on Na Moon-hee’s character as she struggles to recall the names of those she has known for decades. The once vibrant conversations fade into uncomfortable silences, and what begins as a carefree day in the sun becomes a
How Selective Isolation is Redefining Personal Growth
On a brisk autumn morning in Seoul, Minju Kim carefully zipped up her suitcase. The small studio apartment she was leaving behind, nestled in a bustling neighborhood filled with cafes and convenience stores, had once been her sanctuary—an oasis amid the frenetic pace of city life. But as she stood by the door, ready to step out, Minju felt a mix of relief and apprehension. This wasn’t a move prompted by a new job or a relationship, but by a growing sense that the life she had been living—immerse
Makgeolli With Modern Health Benefits for Your Gut
The importance of the gut microbiome has become a central focus in contemporary medical and nutritional research. The gut microbiome, comprising trillions of microorganisms, plays a critical role in digestion, immune function, and even mental health. In this context, Makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice wine, stands out not only for its cultural significance but also for its unique health benefits, particularly in promoting a healthy gut microbiome. Unlike many other alcoholic beverages, Makgeol