United News of Bangladesh

Nestled in Japan’s Hakone region, Owakudani is a steaming volcanic valley famous for its black eggs, known locally as kuro-tamago. Boiled in sulphur-rich hot springs, the eggs turn jet black, and local legend promises that eating one adds seven years to a person’s life. The story dates back over a thousand years to Kobo Daishi, a revered Buddhist monk and scholar, who encouraged locals to consume eggs boiled in the valley’s hot springs to promote health and vitality. Over time, this belief evolved into the enduring legend of the seven-year lifespan boost. Owakudani, about 90 km from Tokyo, attracts visitors with its dramatic landscape of hissing vents, steaming fissures, and rocky terrain. The valley’s geothermal activity, formed by a volcanic eruption roughly 3,000 years ago, not only shapes the scenery but also gives the eggs their unique black shells. Inside, the eggs are regular hard-boiled eggs with only a faint sulphur taste. Visitors usually take a train to Odawara, followed by local transport and the Hakone Ropeway, which glides over the volcanic valley. At Owakudani Station, the kuro-tamago are sold fresh, typically in packs of four, and meant to be eaten on-site, reports NDTV. Read More: Why weight often comes back after quitting intermittent fasting, says Harvard doctor While scientific evidence does not support the claim of added longevity, the eggs are a ritualistic experience for many Japanese and a fascinating cultural curiosity for international travellers. Authorities advise visitors to follow safety rules strictly, as the area remains volcanically active with occasional restrictions due to gas emissions or seismic activity.

A crumbling 19th-century house on one of Belgrade’s busiest streets is defying time and urban development by thriving as a small, intimate theatre. Built in 1894 by a prominent family, the mansion at 17 Takovska Street is a protected heritage site that now hosts Takovska17, a theatre staging early 20th-century plays for audiences of just a few dozen people. Though traffic roars past outside, stepping inside feels like entering another era, with period furniture, faded walls and wooden floors worn by more than a century of use. Several local theatre troupes perform in the space, embracing its historic atmosphere. Actress Isidora Ristic said the house itself has become part of the performances, calling it “a character in our plays.” Architect and performer Tamara Masic said the artists feel honored to breathe new life into the old building, describing it as “like a museum.” The unique setting has drawn strong interest, with frequent waiting lists for tickets. As many similar houses in Belgrade have been demolished to make way for modern buildings, Takovska17 stands out as a rare survivor, preserving the city’s past while creating new stories on stage.  

People who stay active late at night, often called night owls, may have a higher risk of heart problems, a new study suggests. Researchers say the mismatch between the body’s internal clock and daily routines can affect heart health, but lifestyle changes can reduce the risk. The study, led by Sina Kianersi of Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, tracked over 300,000 adults in the UK Biobank for 14 years. About 8% identified as night owls, while a quarter were early birds and the rest had typical sleep patterns. Night owls were found to have a 16% higher risk of a first heart attack or stroke compared to the average population. Women night owls showed especially poorer cardiovascular health. Experts link the risk to behaviors like smoking, poor diet, insufficient sleep, and less physical activity. “Night owls are not doomed. The challenge is living in a morning person’s world,” Kianersi said. The misalignment can affect metabolism, blood pressure, and other heart-related functions. The American Heart Association recommends eight key habits for heart health: regular physical activity, avoiding tobacco, getting enough sleep, healthy diet, and controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and weight. Researchers say night owls can follow these steps to protect their hearts, even if they prefer late-night schedules. Experts also suggest sticking to consistent sleep and wake times and focusing on quitting smoking as a priority. “Focus on the basics, not perfection,” Kianersi said. The study highlights the importance of aligning daily habits with the body’s natural rhythm while maintaining heart-healthy behaviors.

Japan’s last pair of giant pandas have returned to China, ending the country’s 50-year tradition of hosting the beloved animals. The twin pandas, Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei, are leaving amid strained diplomatic relations between Japan and China over the new Japanese Prime Minister’s stance on Taiwan, making it unlikely that replacement pandas will be sent to Japan. Thousands of fans had gathered at Tokyo’s Ueno Zoo to bid farewell to the pandas, who were born there in 2021. China first sent pandas to Japan in 1972 to mark the normalization of diplomatic ties. Over the years, Beijing has used pandas as a diplomatic tool, symbolizing goodwill and soft power, which can be withdrawn when relations sour. Pet dog guards owner’s body for 4 days amid freezing snowfall State broadcaster CCTV showed the pandas arriving in crates in Sichuan province, southwestern China. They are now under quarantine at the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda, which confirmed their safe arrival early Wednesday morning. Although pandas are often lent to other countries, China retains ownership of the animals, including any offspring.

Intermittent fasting has become very popular on social media, with many people trying it to lose weight fast. But while it may work for a short time, a Harvard doctor explains why the lost weight often returns once people stop following the routine. Intermittent fasting is about when you eat, not what you eat. Many plans limit eating to an eight-hour window each day or ask people to fast one or two days a week. Although these methods can help with weight loss at first, sticking to them long-term is not easy. Dr Trisha Pasricha, a doctor at Harvard Medical School professor, recently explained the science in a video shared by ‘The Washington Post’. She said studies show intermittent fasting can lead to weight loss for a few months. However, most people find it hard to maintain, and the weight usually comes back after they stop. She also pointed out that research has not clearly proven that intermittent fasting prevents heart disease, cancer, or helps people live longer. One major problem is that strict eating schedules often clash with work, family time and social events. When a diet feels too restrictive, people are more likely to give up and weight regain becomes common. Instead of strict fasting, Dr Pasricha suggests easier habits that are more realistic. She advises eating breakfast within an hour of waking up and choosing foods high in protein and fibre, such as eggs, fruits or whole grains, rather than sugary cereals or pastries. A good breakfast helps control hunger later in the day. She also recommends finishing meals two to three hours before bedtime. Eating late at night can slow down calorie burning and increase fat storage. More Read: Defying ageism can help you live longer, experts say According to the expert, simple and consistent habits work better than extreme diets for long-term weight control. With inputs from BBC

Archaeologists in Xi’an, the capital of northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, have uncovered a well-planned suburban settlement dating back to the Western Han Dynasty, offering new insights into life on the outskirts of the ancient capital Chang’an. The discovery was made during excavations at the Sanjiu relic site, according to the Shaanxi Provincial Institute of Archaeology. The settlement dates from the middle of the Western Han period to the Xin Dynasty, which ruled between 202 BC and 25 AD. Also Read: Why a lone nihilist penguin from a 2007 documentary goes viral The Sanjiu site is located in Xi’an’s Weiyang District, about 0.6 kilometres east of the eastern wall of ancient Chang’an City. Archaeological work carried out in 2025 also revealed remains from later periods, including a Northern Wei cemetery, tombs from the Song Dynasty, and pottery kilns dating to the Qing Dynasty. Researchers found that the Western Han settlement was divided by a north to south ditch. On the eastern side, eight large courtyard-style residential complexes were arranged along a cross-shaped road system, forming what archaeologists believe was a central area for food processing activities. On the western side of the ditch, excavators identified workshops for bone processing and metal smelting alongside residential areas. The team recovered about 78 kilograms of bone and shell materials, as well as iron tools and decorative items such as bone earrings and shell beads, suggesting the presence of a jewellery production workshop. Also Read: Bird murals bring Hong Kong’s migratory stories to life in Lantau’s forgotten village Project leader Zhang Yanglizheng said the findings reveal previously unknown details about how suburban areas near Chang’an City were organised, highlighting the site’s importance for understanding social and economic structures during the Western Han period.

A moving incident from Bharmour in Himachal Pradesh’s Chamba district  in India has highlighted the extraordinary loyalty of a pet dog, which stayed beside its dead owner for four days amid heavy snowfall and extreme cold. The tragedy unfolded near the Bharmani temple area, where two young relatives, Bikshit Rana and Piyush, went missing while recording videos. They were later found dead after being trapped in deep snow during severe weather. When rescue teams and local residents reached the remote spot four days later, they found Piyush’s body buried under thick layers of snow. Sitting next to him was his pet pitbull, which had refused to leave the place since its owner’s death. Despite freezing temperatures, snowstorms and strong winds, the dog did not move or eat during those four days. It remained alert, guarding the body from harsh weather and wild animals common in the area, reports NDTV. Positive attitude towards ageing can help people live longer, studies show Rescuers said the dog initially reacted aggressively when they tried to recover the body, apparently thinking the strangers might harm its owner. After patient efforts and gentle reassurance, the animal eventually calmed down and stepped aside, allowing the team to proceed. The incident has deeply touched many people, once again showing the powerful bond and loyalty animals can display, even in the face of death.                                                

Research suggests that having a positive view of ageing can help people feel younger, stay healthier and even live longer, highlighting the harmful effects of ageism on physical and mental wellbeing. The World Health Organization says ageism influences how people think, feel and act towards others and themselves based on age, often in damaging ways. Experts argue that challenging these attitudes is essential not only for social equality but also for better health outcomes. Studies show ageism can affect people of all ages, but older adults experience it most frequently. In the UK, one in three people report facing age-based discrimination, while a US study found that more than 90 percent of adults aged between 50 and 80 experienced everyday ageism, often through negative messages they had internalised over time. Researchers say such attitudes often develop early in life, shaped by family beliefs, media portrayals and social norms. According to scientists, negative language around ageing – such as portraying older populations as a burden – can influence how people perceive growing older and how they live their lives. Experts warn that ageism can become a self-fulfilling cycle. Older adults who internalise stereotypes may lose confidence, avoid learning new skills or limit physical activity, even when they are capable. This can lead to poorer mental health, reduced physical performance and social isolation. However, evidence suggests the opposite is also true. People with positive beliefs about ageing tend to feel younger than their actual age and report higher life satisfaction. A long-term study in the United States found that individuals with positive views of ageing lived an average of seven and a half years longer than those with negative perceptions. Researchers also found links between positive ageing attitudes and better brain health, including stronger memory and lower risk indicators associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Experts stress that ageing should not be seen as a decline, but as a success of modern healthcare. While some older people face complex health challenges, the majority remain independent, active and engaged in their communities. Social scientists say tackling ageism requires change at both cultural and personal levels. Encouraging contact between generations, challenging stereotypes in families and media, and promoting diverse representation of older adults can help reduce prejudice. In many cultures, older people are respected as sources of wisdom and experience. Researchers say such values, along with strong social connections and community support, play an important role in healthy ageing. Experts argue that ageing is a privilege, and embracing it with a positive mindset can improve quality of life for individuals and society as a whole.   With inputs from BBC

Eating a diet rich in fibre from whole grains, fruits, pulses, nuts, and seeds can improve health, protect the brain, and reduce the risk of serious diseases, according to recent research. Experts say fibre benefits the gut microbiome, which in turn influences the gut-brain axis – the communication link between the gut and the brain. This connection may help slow cognitive decline and boost memory. Karen Scott, professor of gut microbiology at the University of Aberdeen, said increasing fibre intake is one of the most effective dietary changes for brain health. John Cummings, emeritus professor at the University of Dundee, noted that high fibre intake lowers the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, colon cancer, and may extend lifespan. Studies have found that adults consuming the highest fibre levels had a 15-30% lower risk of death than those with the lowest intake. Research also shows that fibre produces beneficial compounds in the gut, such as butyrate, which protects the gut lining and improves cognition. Clinical trials suggest prebiotic fibre supplements can improve brain function within months. Higher fibre intake has also been linked to better sleep, reduced depression, and overall wellbeing. Experts recommend adding fibre-rich foods to all meals and snacks, including pulses, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds. Supplements can help those who struggle to consume enough fibre through diet alone. Increasing daily fibre intake, they say, could be the simplest step to improve overall health and brain function.   With inputs from BBC

High-protein diets have become increasingly popular for weight loss and muscle building, but many people experience bloating, fatigue, constipation, or discomfort after upping their protein intake. Experts say the problem usually lies not in protein itself, but in how it is incorporated into the diet. Nutritionist Leema Mahajan recently shared on Instagram the most frequent mistakes people make while following a high-protein diet. Mistake 1: Not drinking enough waterHigh protein increases urea production, which the body needs water to flush out through the kidneys. Without sufficient hydration, symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, dark urine, and constipation can occur. “Protein itself does not dehydrate you. Poor hydration does,” Mahajan explained. Mistake 2: Reducing fibre intakeSome people replace meals with protein shakes or cut carbohydrates entirely, which removes fibre from the diet. Protein powders contain almost no fibre, and reducing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes can slow digestion, causing bloating and constipation. According to Mahajan, these issues arise from low fibre and inadequate water, not protein. Read More: Nutritionist warns: 5 protein-rich foods that may actually cause weight gain Mistake 3: Cutting down fruits and vegetablesAnimal-heavy high-protein diets can increase the body’s acid load. Potassium, mainly found in fruits and vegetables, helps neutralise this acidity. Eliminating these foods can lead to cramps, bloating, kidney stress, and blood pressure problems. Studies show the risk comes from high protein combined with low potassium intake. Mahajan advised gradually increasing protein while maintaining sufficient water, fibre, and potassium from plant sources. “Protein works best when it is supported, not isolated,” she said. Source: NDTV