Drinking coffee every morning is a sacred ritual for many people. It gives them the energy to start their day as well as the boost they need through midday etc. Coffee often gets credit for waking us up, but it's also been linked to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and even a longer life. However, new research suggests that how you drink your coffee might determine whether you actually get these health benefits.

While people have their own preferences of how they like their coffee, new research shows that having it a certain way can make it worse for your health, rather than helping you.

Black Coffee for Better Health

A recent study found that people who drank one to two cups of coffee daily had a 14% lower risk of dying compared to those who didn't drink coffee. But there's a catch: this was only true for individuals who drank their coffee black or with just small amounts of cream, milk, or sweeteners. Adding too many extra ingredients seemed to cancel out coffee's positive effects.

Coffee Habits and Life Expectancy

This study, published in The Journal of Nutrition, followed over 46,000 adults in the U.S. for about 10 years. Researchers wanted to see if there was a connection between how people drank coffee and their risk of death.

At the beginning, participants filled out a survey about their diet for over 24 hours. From this, researchers estimated their usual coffee intake and noted if they added sweeteners or high-fat products. After tracking participants' health (including deaths from cancer, heart disease, and all other causes), the team found:

• Drinking one cup of coffee daily was linked to a 16% lower risk of death from any cause.
• Drinking two or three cups daily cuts this risk by 17%.
• Coffee drinkers also had a significantly lower risk (29–33%) of dying from heart disease.

When looking at additives, people who drank black coffee or coffee with low amounts of added sugar and saturated fat had a 14% lower risk of overall mortality compared to non-coffee drinkers. "Low added sugar" meant less than 2.5 grams (about half a teaspoon) of sugar, syrup, or honey per 8 ounces. "Low saturated fat" meant less than 1 gram (about 5 tablespoons of 2% milk or 1 tablespoon of light cream/half-and-half) per 8 ounces.

Why Additives Might Reduce Benefits

Coffee contains over 100 different molecules, including polyphenols, which are likely responsible for many of its health benefits. Polyphenols are antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage. This makes the link between coffee and lower mortality "biologically plausible," as coffee is a major source of antioxidants for many.

Adding sugar or saturated fats to your coffee doesn't necessarily destroy these polyphenols. Instead, a high intake of sugar and saturated fats in general is simply linked to worse heart health and a higher risk of death.

Making the Most of Your Coffee

Since this is the first study to specifically look at how coffee additives affect mortality risk, the evidence isn't yet strong enough for strict recommendations. However, a good general rule is to reduce your overall consumption of sugar and saturated fat.

If you enjoy a little cream and sweetener in your coffee, don't worry too much. While black might be better, adding small amounts doesn't necessarily put you at increased risk.

Regardless of additives, moderation is key. The health benefits of coffee tend to decrease after about two cups daily, and drinking too much can even be harmful. High doses of caffeine can cause anxiety, irregular heartbeats, and elevated blood pressure.

Celebrities go through extreme amounts of scrutiny, constantly living under pressure and having to stomach all their personal feelings in order to continue their work. Olivia Munn is no stranger to this feeling. The American actress recently opened up about struggling with an uncommon condition that was triggered due to a paparazzi shot.

She revealed she lives with trichotillomania, a lesser-known mental health condition. This news comes after her public battle with breast cancer, highlighting her continued openness about her health journey.

“I did the horrible thing, which was to read the comments... And they were like ‘I think she set this up!’” In a recent episode of ‘Armchair expert’ podcast, Munn shared that her trichotillomania began after an incident with paparazzi between 2009 and 2010 when she was dating Chris Pine. The insensitive comments turned out to be a trigger for her, and she explained it was the beginning of her condition.

What is Trichotillomania?

Trichotillomania, also called trich or TTM, is a condition where people have strong, repeated, and uncontrollable urges to pull out their hair. This hair can come from their scalp, eyebrows, or other body parts. Munn explained that the urge to pull can be quite intense and it is a sensation that feels like “oh this eyelash feels like its going to come out, even though it is not”. Once you pull it, she details, there is a small second of pain, then satisfaction followed up with immediate regret.

The National Health Services UK explains that people with trichotillomania often feel a certain sensation. They feel a lot of tension building up until they pull, and once they do, they often feel a sense of relief. Sometimes, hair pulling happens when someone is stressed, but it can also happen without them even thinking about it. While most people pull hair from their head, some also pull from their:

• Eyebrows
• Eyelashes
• Genital area
• Beard or mustache

Bald patches may appear unusually shaped and affect one side of the head more than the other. Trich can lead to feelings of shame and low self-esteem, often causing individuals to try and conceal their condition.

What Causes Trichotillomania?

The exact causes of trichotillomania are not entirely clear, but potential factors include:

Coping mechanism

For some, pulling hair might be a way to deal with strong emotions like stress or anxiety. It could be a kind of self-soothing behavior.

Chemical imbalance

There might be differences in the brain's chemicals that affect how a person controls urges or handles rewards, making it harder to stop pulling hair.

Hormonal changes

Changes in hormone levels, especially during puberty when the condition often starts, could also be a factor.

Genetics

If someone in your family has trichotillomania, you might be more likely to develop it too, suggesting that genes could play a part.

Can Trichotillomania Be Treated?

The main way to treat trichotillomania is through a therapy called habit reversal training, which is a type of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This therapy focuses on helping you replace the urge to pull your hair with something harmless. It typically involves keeping a diary to track when and where you pull your hair, which helps you identify and understand your triggers – the specific situations or feelings that make you want to pull.

Once you know your triggers, you can work on replacing the hair-pulling action with a different, less harmful behavior, like squeezing a stress ball or making a fist. Support from loved ones is also a key part of this process, providing encouragement as you work to change the habit. Other self help tips according to NHS are,

• Squeeze a stress ball or similar object.
• Form a fist and tighten arm muscles.
• Use a fidget toy.
• Wear a bandana or a tight-fitting hat like a beanie.
• Take a soothing bath to reduce stress or anxiety.
• Practice deep breathing until the urge subsides.
• Exercise regularly.
• Apply plasters to fingertips.
• Cut hair short.

While summer season hits US, with record high heat already engulfed parts of United States so far, with sunny brunches, impromptu beach excursions, and lazy, stress-free days outdoors. But with the rise in temperature and UV index, your skin has a special set of problems—consider sweat-caused breakouts, dehydration, and the constant threat of sun damage. Whereas glowing skin is the season's go-to accessory, attaining and sustaining it takes more than a splash of water or swipe of sunscreen. The seasonal shift demands an strategic revamp of your skincare routine, designed specifically for summer's particular needs.

Most people maintain the same skincare routines throughout the year, yet what works in winter could fail in summer. Hot, humid weather increases oil production, clogs pores, and heightens the risk of dehydration and sunburn. The right summer routine is about making smarter, climate-aware choices: featherweight hydration, targeted serums, and robust UV protection. Summer's longer days and soaring temperatures may boost your mood, but they’re also hard on your skin. Increased exposure to the sun’s UV rays can accelerate aging, cause hyperpigmentation, and damage the skin barrier. Toss in sweat, humidity, and pollution, and your skin's defense system is put to the test.

Dermatologists caution that neglecting these environmental stressors can result in premature fine lines, pores clogged by grime, and irregular tone. The secret? Steering clear of aging skincare habits and swapping them out for summer-smart solutions.

"Are you cleansing enough?" That's what Chief Dermatologist Dr. Shwetha Rahul thinks should be the motto for every summer skincare routine. When it's summer, skin sheds more oil, which—if combined with sweat and grime—can block pores quickly.

STEP 1- Cleansing

"Twice daily gentle cleansing is a must," says Dr. Rahul. "But steer clear of harsh scrubs or over-cleansing, which can leave the skin defenseless and even more vulnerable to the sun."

Choose sulfate-free, pH-balanced cleansers that eliminate dirt without tampering with your skin's natural barrier. Gel or foam cleansers are particularly effective on oily and combination skin.

STEP 2- Hydration

One of the largest myths about summer skincare is that you can forego moisturizer. In fact, summer's heat and humidity have a dehydrating effect on your skin, with added sweating and sun damage to boot. Trade in your heavier moisturizers for a lightweight, water-based or gel moisturizer that seals in moisture without being greasy or pore-clogging. Opt for non-comedogenic products containing hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides to keep your skin soft and strong.

"Moisturizing doesn't become optional just because the weather is warm," maintains Dr. Rahul. "In fact, dehydration does occur in summer, particularly following sun exposure."

Check for products containing hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera. For more serious hydration, treatments such as Profhilo or PRP microneedling can restore lost moisture and trigger collagen.

STEP 3- Sunscreen

Whether you’re brunching outdoors or lounging at the beach, sunscreen is your skin’s best defense against premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and sunburn. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, and reapply every two hours when outdoors. Antioxidant-enriched formulas offer extra protection against environmental stressors and help keep your skin evenly toned and healthy.

A golden tan may look appealing, but the long-term effects of unprotected sun exposure are far from pretty. Wrinkles, sunspots, and increased skin cancer risk are all linked to UV radiation.

Sunscreen—broad-spectrum, SPF 30 or higher—is non-negotiable. But it’s not just about applying it once in the morning. “Reapply every two hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating,” Dr. Rahul advises. “Choose antioxidant-rich formulations to fight off free radical damage.”

And don't miss forgotten areas such as ears, feet, and the back of your neck.

STEP 4- Moisturize

Heavy moisturizers and high-coverage foundations can suffocate your skin during summer. The result? Clogged pores, acne, and dullness.

Ditch heavy moisturizers and heavy foundations and switch to light serums, liquid sunscreens, and light BB creams. "Heavy makeup creates a film that holds on to sweat and bacteria. Summer is the time when your skin needs to breathe," advises Dr. Rahul.

STEP 5- Rejuvenation

Sustained sun exposure can leave the skin dry and drained. Brightening serums containing vitamin C or niacinamide brighten the skin, reduce pigmentation, and reduce sun damage. After-sun treatments like aloe vera gel or soothing facial mists calm the irritation and restore lost water.

Professional treatments such as microneedling with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), bio-remodelling injectables such as Profhilo, and LED Light Therapy are becoming increasingly popular due to their capacity to stimulate collagen, improve elasticity, and achieve a dewy, natural look without heavy makeup. These treatments promote deep hydration and discreet repair, minimizing the visibility of fine lines and keeping your skin firm and perky.

Hydration From the Inside Out

Hydrating 8–10 glasses of water a day and consuming water-filled foods such as cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges keep the skin elastic and prevent dryness. Optimal hydration promotes your skin's protective barrier, removes toxins, and postpones premature aging signs.

Summer Skin Issues—and How to Correct Them

Breakouts: Excess oil and sweat can block pores. Exfoliate with gentle acids and use non-comedogenic products.

Sunburn: Cool with fragrance-free moisturizers and aloe vera; skip active ingredients until the skin settles down.

Hyperpigmentation: Prevent and address with daily sunscreen, niacinamide, and vitamin C serums.

Oily Shine: Blotting papers and mattifying primers keep oil under control; change to oil-free moisturizers.

Dehydration: Apply humectants such as hyaluronic acid and hydrate with lots of water to keep your moisture barrier intact

Summer skincare isn't all about appearance; it's about shielding and caring for your skin to keep it healthy, strong, and radiant through every brunch or beach day. By changing up your routine for the season—emphasizing gentle cleansing, intelligent hydration, sun protection, and light textures—you can sidestep snags and maintain a radiant complexion all summer.

As Dr. Shwetha Rahul concludes, "It is crucial to take care of your skin during the summer season in order to prevent common errors that will damage it. By maintaining a consistent skincare routine and using proper products and treatments, you can keep your skin safeguarded, moisturized, and refreshed."

A summer skincare routine is not just about avoiding sunburn or acne—it's about loving your skin through its changing needs and providing it the attention that it needs. From the beach to brunch, your skin is always on high exposure to heat, UV rays, and air pollution.

It starts innocently enough. Maybe it’s a wrinkle forming at the edge of your eyes or the first sign of aching joints after a long day. For many, ageing creeps in slowly, until one day, it becomes the loudest voice in the mirror. The desire to hold on to youth—to remain vibrant, sharp, and wrinkle-free—has fueled a booming global market of anti-ageing solutions. From collagen powders and NMN capsules to calorie-mimicking compounds, anti-ageing drugs and supplements promise to slow time’s march forward.

But here’s the uncomfortable question: What if your quest to look or feel younger is silently speeding up your biological decline? As the anti-ageing industry grows, medical experts warn that some of these interventions might come with unintended, even dangerous, consequences.

The answer is complex. While some anti-ageing drugs and supplements may offer genuine health benefits, others carry hidden risks, especially when used unsupervised or in combination with other medications.

Whether it’s reversing wrinkles, easing joint pain, or stimulating a sluggish metabolism, anti-ageing drugs are now everywhere. The global market for these supplements and therapies is set to skyrocket over the next decade. But effectiveness aside, there’s growing concern over how these substances interact with the body’s internal systems—especially when taken without medical guidance.

The term "anti-ageing" itself is increasingly under scrutiny. It suggests a battle against the inevitable. As a prominent U.S. beauty magazine, acknowledged in its decision to ban the term from its editorial vocabulary, the phrase carries unrealistic and potentially harmful connotations. Instead, terms like "healthy ageing" or "pro-ageing" are gaining ground—offering a more balanced and science-based lens to look at ageing gracefully.

We spoke to experts to discuss the real and potential reasons about the why and how of anti-ageing drugs and their effect on the human body.

Why Are Anti-Ageing Drugs So Popular?

Anti-ageing treatments encompass a wide range of products: from over-the-counter creams and oral supplements to prescription medications and injectable therapies. Popular compounds include antioxidants like glutathione and vitamin C, hormonal agents such as testosterone and growth hormone, and metabolic modulators like metformin and rapamycin. Many of these are marketed with bold claims—promising not just cosmetic improvements, but also enhanced vitality and longevity.

The science behind some of these products is promising. For example, metformin, a drug widely used for diabetes, has been shown in some studies to reduce inflammation, slow organ decline, and lower the risk of age-related diseases. However, the evidence that it—or any other anti-ageing drug—can reliably extend human lifespan remains inconclusive.

Do Anti-Ageing Drugs Mimic Caloric Restriction?

Many anti-ageing drugs work by mimicking caloric restriction or altering key metabolic pathways, a mechanism known to extend lifespan in lab animals. But this doesn’t mean they’re risk-free for humans, especially those with underlying conditions.

“Some anti-ageing drugs change the manner in which the body uses energy, similar to the effect of consuming fewer calories,” explains Dr. Vinay Aggarwal, Past National President of the Indian Medical Association. “While this will cause good ageing, it may put additional stress on the heart, especially in adults with pre-existing illnesses. The heart may be forced to labor harder or evolve to accommodate new energy demands, which may lead to fatigue, weakness, or arrhythmia in some individuals.”

In short, while these drugs may slow down some processes associated with ageing, they might also increase cardiovascular workload—potentially raising the risk of heart complications in certain users.

What Red Flags Should You Watch for When Self-Medicating?

The trend of self-medicating with anti-ageing supplements is growing, but it can be dangerous. Beyond prescription drugs, many people turn to over-the-counter anti-ageing supplements with little medical oversight. This self-medicating trend can pose a serious health threat.

“Individuals who use anti-ageing supplements without consulting a physician ought to be watchful for symptoms such as persistent fatigue, insomnia, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, or stomach upset,” warns Dr. Aggarwal.

“Mixing various supplements also elevates risks to overall health. If one starts to feel sick or notices some strange change since beginning such products, they should consult a physician immediately.”

The lack of regulation in the supplement industry means consumers are often unaware of what they’re ingesting—or how it interacts with other medications or pre-existing conditions.

Dr. Aggarwal shares that these warning signs may indicate that the body is not responding well to the supplement. He also cautions that mixing various supplements increases health risks, and if you start to feel unwell or notice unusual changes after beginning such products, it’s crucial to consult a physician immediately.

Could Anti-Ageing Drugs Destabilize Your Cardiovascular System?

The cardiovascular system is particularly vulnerable to the effects of anti-ageing drugs. Dr. S.S. Sibia, Cardiologist & Director at Sibia Medical Center, Ludhiana, explains, "“Hormonal, metabolic, or cellular repair agents may sometimes produce an undesirable effect on blood pressure control or stress-induced heart function."

“Uncontrolled use, especially in those with underlying conditions, can lead to disruption of autonomic balance or vascular function, precipitating risks like hypertension or hypotensive attacks.”

The mechanisms behind these risks are still being studied, but early research indicates that these compounds can disrupt the heart’s electrical signaling or alter vascular tone, both of which are critical to stable blood pressure and rhythm.

“Some anti-aging therapies can interfere with cellular energy metabolism or signaling pathways that control heart function,” Dr. Sibia adds.

“This can be interfering with the electrical signal of the heart or changing constriction of blood vessels. Thus, some people might develop irregular heart rhythms or changes in blood pressure, particularly with long-term or unmonitored therapy.”

How Do Dermatologists Evaluate the Side Effects of Anti-Ageing Drugs?

Beyond the heart, the skin and other organs can also be affected by anti-ageing treatments. Dr. Chandani Jain Gupta, MBBS & MD, Dermatologist & Aesthetic Physician at Elantis Healthcare, New Delhi, explains that side effects are assessed through clinical trials, dermatology tests, and ongoing post-launch monitoring.

In the dermatology world, anti-ageing topicals—ranging from retinoids to hormone creams—have long been popular. But even here, caution is advised.

“Side effects are evaluated on clinical trials, dermatology tests, and post-launch monitoring,” says Dr. Chandani. “Common issues include irritation, pigmentation, or potentially systemic impact. Safety profiles are dependent upon dosage, duration, patient profile, and ingredient interaction.”

With long-term usage, the skin might not always respond positively—especially with unregulated or steroid-infused products.

“The safety line is the point at which benefit is greater than risk,” Dr. Gupta adds. “Long-term products must be okay’d by dermatologists, clinically proven, and contain no harmful ingredients like steroids or unregulated hormones. Regular skin checkups and halting at signs of unfavorable reaction guarantee safety.”

A major challenge with anti-ageing supplements is the lack of stringent regulation. Unlike prescription drugs, many supplements are not subject to rigorous safety or efficacy testing before reaching consumers. This opens the door to contamination, inaccurate dosing, and potentially dangerous interactions with other medications. Introducing multiple supplements at once can create a “pharmacological pandora’s box,” increasing the risk of adverse reactions and drug interactions.

Diet vs. Drugs: Is There a Safer Path to Healthy Ageing?

Emerging research suggests that lifestyle factors—especially diet—may have a more profound and safer impact on ageing than drugs alone. Dietary patterns, particularly protein and energy intake, can influence cellular health and longevity more fundamentally than most pharmacological interventions. While drugs may dampen some metabolic responses, they rarely reshape the underlying cellular machinery the way diet can.

There’s no denying the allure of anti-ageing treatments. Who doesn’t want to look and feel their best as they age? But experts agree: there’s no magic pill or serum that can completely halt time.

More importantly, the goal shouldn't be to resist ageing—but to age well. That means making informed choices, consulting healthcare professionals, and prioritizing long-term health over short-term gains.

Some drugs and supplements may offer healthspan benefits, but the risks—especially to cardiovascular health—are real and can be life-threatening if misused or taken without medical oversight. If you are considering anti-ageing drugs or supplements, consult a qualified physician, monitor for side effects, and be wary of unproven claims or off-label uses.