The Times of India News

Kerala has been recognized as a top global destination for 2026 by Rough Guides, securing the 16th spot. Known as 'God's Own Country,' it offers authentic experiences like backwaters, hill stations, and rich traditions, perfect for slow travel. The state's tourism portal also saw significant global traffic, highlighting its growing appeal.

Social media influencer Estee Williams' three-month-old daughter, Estelle, is on life support after suffering cardiac arrest and stopping breathing. The baby, who was born with congenital heart defects and has undergone multiple surgeries, is now being kept alive by an ECMO machine. Doctors are planning for a Berlin Heart device as Estelle awaits a potential heart transplant.

Bell's palsy causes sudden facial weakness or paralysis on one side. This condition affects the nerve controlling facial muscles. Viral infections, stress, and other factors can trigger it. While alarming, it often resolves on its own. Early awareness is crucial to distinguish it from serious ailments like stroke. Management focuses on eye protection and facial exercises.

Kimchi, a fermented vegetable dish, is gaining scientific recognition for its immune-boosting properties. Its rich fiber, vitamins, minerals, and beneficial bacteria support gut health and reduce inflammation. Fermentation enhances nutrient bioavailability and creates bioactive compounds, making kimchi a powerful ally for a resilient immune system. Discover how this traditional food supports your well-being.

Dark chocolate offers men subtle yet significant boosts to everyday wellbeing. Research indicates cocoa flavanols improve vascular function and cognitive performance, aligning with men's reported experiences of enhanced mood, focus, and circulation. This rich treat provides a gentle, controlled energy without highs and lows, supporting heart health and allowing enjoyment without excess.

Grammy winner Will.i.am advocates for 'dream-reality balance' over work-life balance, emphasizing that evenings are crucial for building personal dreams. He believes sacrificing comfort during the '5-to-9' hours is key to transforming aspirations into tangible achievements, a principle he followed long before it became a trend.

Studies have shown that backward walking burns more calories than forward walking.

Rome will introduce a 2 fee for access to the Trevi Fountain's steps and basin starting February 1, 2026, to manage overwhelming crowds. This measure aims to enhance safety and visitor experience, not generate revenue, with funds directed towards monument maintenance. The charge is part of a broader trend in Italy to control and monetize heritage sites.

Ed Sheeran revealed his 14 kg weight loss journey, inspired by his desire to be a healthier father and feel superhuman on stage. After a decade of unhealthy habits, the singer embraced weight training, pilates, and running, working with personal trainers to elevate his fitness routine and achieve his transformation.

Delhi offers a vibrant South Indian cultural experience beyond its Mughal heritage. Towering gopurams, ancient rituals, and serene sanctums in temples like Uttara Swami Malai and Sri Venkateswara serve as cultural bridges, showcasing South Indian heritage in the North.

Abdominal obesity, or a 'beer belly,' poses significant heart health risks, particularly for men. Emerging studies reveal that visceral fat negatively impacts heart muscle structure and chamber volume, leading to potential heart failure even with normal BMI. Early detection through waist-to-hip ratio and advanced cardiac MRI is crucial for preventive action.

Emerging studies have sparked alarm regarding the safety of moringa leaf powder, highlighting dangerous levels of contamination with Salmonella, E. coli, and parasites. An alarming outbreak in 2025 sickened 11 individuals due to Salmonella-laden supplements. These harmful bacteria can lead to severe gastrointestinal disturbances, especially when the powder is consumed in its raw form.

New research from Cornell University reveals that GLP-1 weight-loss medications are significantly altering American shopping habits. Within six months of starting these drugs, individuals reduced grocery spending by an average of 5.3%, with higher-income households seeing over an 8% drop. Spending at fast-food and coffee shops also fell by approximately 8%.

Washing raw chicken can actually increase the risk of Salmonella infection by spreading bacteria through water droplets. Studies show a significant percentage of sinks and even ready-to-eat foods become contaminated after rinsing poultry. To ensure safety, prepare uncooked foods first, thoroughly clean all surfaces, and cook chicken to an internal temperature of 74C.

Research indicates a 'sweet spot' for age gaps in long-lasting relationships, with zero to three years showing the highest satisfaction. While larger gaps can present challenges, successful couples prioritize open communication, shared values, love, and respect to navigate differences and maintain happiness.

Indian home-cooked meals, often praised for being healthy, are facing scrutiny. An oncologist reveals our diet is carbohydrate-heavy, lacking essential protein and healthy fats. Experts urge reducing oil and salt, increasing protein intake with lean meats or paneer, adding raw or steamed vegetables, and replacing refined grains with millets for a truly balanced plate.

The trending 'T-maxxing' movement has captured attention for its promise of increased testosterone to enhance muscle growth and energy levels. However, caution is advised as it raises potential fertility red flags. While embracing healthy habits like consistent exercise and sufficient sleep can be helpful, relying on hormone injections or dubious supplements may cause significant disruptions in sperm production.

Worried about pesticides on your favourite berries? A doctor's simple, research-backed method using baking soda and water can remove up to 96% of residues. This easy soak, followed by a rinse, is the safest way to enjoy these nutritious fruits without fear. Learn the science behind it and why a quick wash isn't enough.

Evening sock marks on your ankles can be a subtle sign of fluid retention, especially after long periods of standing or sitting. While often harmless, persistent deep indentations accompanied by heavy, tight, or shiny skin might indicate underlying health issues like circulation problems or organ dysfunction. Simple lifestyle changes can help manage mild swelling.

At just 24, IIT alumnus Manvendra Singh has shattered expectations by overcoming cerebral palsy to achieve a remarkable All India Rank of 112 in his debut attempt at the UPSC Engineering Services Examination.

In a world where people are running after famous attractions and more social-media-recommended destinations, there are some incredible villages in India which enjoy a life away from all limelight.

Bern, Switzerland, has been named the world's most liveable city for 2026 by ECA International. This charming capital boasts a UNESCO World Heritage Old Town, rich cultural heritage, and exceptional quality of life. With world-class infrastructure and safety, Bern offers a unique blend of history and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination.

South Korea is now paying citizens to date, marry, and have children due to a severe relationship crisis and declining birth rates. Local governments offer cash incentives, with some regions providing up to INR 12-13 lakh for marriage. However, experts question if financial aid alone can revive relationships amidst work stress and economic pressures.

Discover simple, everyday habits to maintain neat and clean nails without extensive effort. Learn to trim regularly, clean beneath the nail bed during handwashing, care for cuticles, moisturize to prevent brittleness, and protect nails from damage. These small, consistent actions ensure your nails look and feel healthy, eliminating the need for frequent salon visits.

New research reveals indoor air pollution in homes can exceed outdoor levels, posing significant health risks. Everyday activities like cooking and cleaning, alongside external sources, contribute to these elevated levels. Simple ventilation improvements and mindful habits can effectively reduce indoor particle exposure.

Dr. John Valentine highlights five everyday habits that can silently damage kidneys after age 40. These include regular ibuprofen use, insufficient water intake, excessive protein consumption, frequent urination, and holding urine. He warns these practices can lead to irreversible kidney damage and lifelong dialysis. Remember prevention is cure. Take a look.

Gaten Matarazzo's character Dustin Henderson from Netflix's Stranger Things sheds light on cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD), a rare genetic disorder affecting bone and dental development. The condition, characterized by absent collarbones and dental abnormalities, impacts approximately one in a million people globally. Matarazzo's openness has raised awareness for this often misunderstood condition.

Winter naturally shifts our diets towards grounding ingredients like turmeric, jaggery, and black pepper. This traditional trio, now scientifically supported for its impact on hunger and blood sugar, offers warmth, aids digestion, and bolsters immunity. Their subtle presence transforms heavy winter meals and comforting drinks, making the season more manageable.

Orange juice is having a quiet comeback, and this time the spotlight is on science rather than just breakfast advertising. Recent research is looking at 100% orange juice as more than a sugary drink, especially when it is consumed in small, sensible portions. If you still think of it as just juice, you may be missing several health benefits that are surprisingly well documented.

From quaint hill towns to heritage-rich plains, these 10 look their best during winter, and are a must visit in North India in January.

Brooklyn Beckham's recent cryptic TikTok, featuring Lady Gaga's Sorry, I cannot hear you, Im kinda busy, has fueled speculation about a deepening rift with his family. This follows reports of him blocking David, Victoria, and his siblings on social media. The feud reportedly began around his wedding and has intensified with missed family events and differing values.

Lily Collins is cherishing her daughter Tove's first Christmas, sharing heartwarming glimpses of their intimate family celebration. The actress expressed immense joy and gratitude for this special milestone, highlighting the magic of motherhood. Collins also revealed the beautiful Norse meaning behind Tove's name, 'beloved' or 'beautiful', as she embraces her new role as a mother.

Tight, synthetic leggings can contribute to vaginal and urinary problems by trapping moisture and creating an environment for bacterial overgrowth. While not the sole cause of UTIs, prolonged wear and poor hygiene with these garments increase risk. Experts advise changing out of damp leggings promptly and opting for breathable fabrics to protect pelvic health.

Indian supermarkets now offer a diverse dairy aisle, with consumers navigating choices between Greek yogurt, skyr, hung curd, and traditional curd. Each offers distinct protein, taste, and nutritional profiles, influencing satiety, meal pairings, and everyday culinary uses. Understanding these subtle differences helps consumers make informed decisions based on their daily needs and preferences.

IndiGo has cancelled numerous domestic flights on December 26th due to persistent winter fog and poor visibility impacting operations across North India. Several cities, including Varanasi, Chandigarh, and Guwahati, experienced cancellations due to forecasted bad weather. Major hubs like Bengaluru, Chennai, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata also saw grounded flights as visibility dropped.

Legendary singer Barry Manilow, 82, revealed his lung cancer diagnosis, discovered by chance during an unrelated medical scan. Doctors recommend surgery, with chemotherapy and radiotherapy not currently anticipated. Manilow has postponed upcoming shows and urges fans to heed persistent respiratory symptoms.

A large-scale study reveals that adhering to a Mediterranean diet significantly lowers the risk of developing multiple sclerosis, particularly for younger adults and nonsmokers. Researchers observed a 14% reduction in MS risk for every point increase in the Mediterranean Diet Score, highlighting the protective power of these dietary choices.

Bridgerton season 4 update: Benedicts love story stirs 'Cinderella with trauma' in new teaser trailer, fans call it 'proper fairytale energy'

Palau is pioneering sustainable tourism with its Legacy Pledge, a passport-stamped promise tourists make to protect the environment. Launched in 2017, this initiative uses behavioral science, storytelling, and legal reminders to foster responsible visitor actions. It's a moral contract, not just a rule, aiming to preserve Palau's precious marine ecosystems for future generations.

Weak wrists surprise you. You pick up a weighted bag or attempt a plank, and before you know it, everything is wobbling. Whether lifting weights in the gym, typing at work, or playing a sport, strong wrists mean a steady hand and reduced risk of injury.Below are exercises that will help build strength in these muscles related to forearm movement and grip. Perform these exercises two or three times a week with a light start, and increased strength will follow in a few week.Begin with a quick warm

A recent study reveals that a stiffer colon, caused by years of low-grade inflammation, may be an early warning sign for colorectal cancer in younger adults. This tissue hardening creates an environment where tumors can grow faster, prompting researchers to explore new screening and treatment strategies for those under 50.

New aquarium owners often face a common issue: a dusty brown film on surfaces. This isn't true algae but diatoms, microscopic organisms thriving in unstable water conditions with excess silica and nutrients. While harmless, they mar aesthetics. Effective removal involves manual cleaning and siphoning, with prevention focusing on stable water chemistry, proper lighting, and regular maintenance.

Experiencing sudden, electric shock-like sensations in your head, known as 'brain zaps,' can be unsettling. While often harmless and linked to discontinuing certain medications like antidepressants, these brief, painful phenomena warrant attention. If accompanied by loss of consciousness or weakness, consulting a doctor is crucial to rule out serious conditions.

We all are aware of the many benefits of walking. However, a slightly different approach can challenge the brain in ways regular walks cannot. What if instead of forward steps, you take steps laterally. Gaining attention on social media these days, this walking technique is widely practiced in sports training and fall prevention programs. So lets take a look at what happens when you practice sideways walking. Sideways walking involves stepping laterally in an upright posture, with coordinated mo

From bone to brain, calcium and magnesium are two of the most essential minerals that the body needs. To manage the deficiency of these minerals, supplements are available and can be taken after a doctors recommendation. But for someone suffering from deficiencies of both of these minerals, taking supplementation can be a little complicated. Lets understand why taking calcium and magnesium supplements together may not be ideal and how strategically taking them can provide optimal absorption. Cal

A man named Keshav Gupta shed 46 kg by ditching five key food groups. He swapped high-GI grains for millets and legumes, and sugar for natural sweeteners. Processed snacks, sweet fruits like mangoes, and refined seed oils were also eliminated, replaced by homemade options, berries, and healthy fats. This dietary shift proved crucial for his significant weight loss.

In 2025, global travel saw a significant behavioral shift, with travelers prioritizing clarity, predictability, and trust over just destination appeal. This led to a demand for seamless, stress-free journeys, amplified by the rise of AI-enabled travelers seeking informed decision-making. For 2026, mobility systems must adapt to these evolving expectations, focusing on transparency and human oversight to build enduring trust.

With misty hill stations and ancient ruins, temple towns and quiet coastlines, South India in January offers choice without extremes of weather too. Each has the advantages of clear skies, mild temperatures and a landscape revived by recent rains, andit remains one of the most rewarding months for exploring this region.

Salt draws excess fluid from swollen tissues and helps reduce inflammation. Gargle with half teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water for 30 seconds. Repeat 3-4 a day.

Kerala, often called 'God's Own Country,' is increasingly compared to Finland due to its exceptional education, high quality of life, and robust social welfare. With a literacy rate exceeding 94% and strong human development indicators, Kerala mirrors Finland's success. This comparison highlights the state's achievements in governance and societal values, making it the 'Finland of India'.