Surprising Science

Antarctic penguins have had the run of the continent, isolated and unexposed to new pathogens. But a wave of tourism may be threatening penguin populations with disease.

Hugs may have healing properties (beyond making you feel warm and fuzzy). This flu season add a hug a day to your regimen–it may help lessen your cold symptoms, according to one study.

Parents who buy their teens inexpensive first vehicles are putting them at higher risk of accident and injury, often because the cheapest cars are old and lacking modern safety features.

Religion can be an uncomfortable topic for some people to discuss, especially with co-workers. Researchers say, hiding part of your identity may be damaging your mental well-being and office relationships.

Scientists have broaden the criteria for what makes a planet hospitable. Researchers dispute that even if a planet were tilted on its side, it could sustain life, so long as its surface is covered in water.

The planet’s life expectancy is up to 71.5 years according to a new study. This is a six-year improvement from 1990.

Pregnancy comes with lots of changes–particularly for the mothers-to-be. But a new study reveals that men go through some hormonal changes along with their partners.

It’s said that the extinction event was a turning point for mammals, allowing us to thrive and evolve. But this cataclysmic event wasn’t a boon for every mammal.

Americans are working more and sleeping less, according to a recent study. On top of that we’re devoting more time to our daily commutes as well.

The holidays mean feasts with lots of food. But how are we able to eat so much and what makes us crash after we’re full? Biologist, Christina Agapakis, has the answers.

Teens know about the health risks when it comes to smoking cigarettes, but they may be less educated about e-cigarettes. Studies show these electronic vapor devices are gaining popularity among youths.

Those who don’t let age get in the way of how society thinks they “should” feel may live longer. Researchers found that thinking of yourself as younger, may increase your lifespan.

A new report out of France suggests a link between eating chili peppers and boosted levels of testosterone, which makes men more adventurous and enterprising.

Taste scientists are still uncertain as to how and why taste buds work the way they do, but that doesn’t mean they haven’t figured out ways to “hack” your senses.

Despite worries that inevitable automation will swallow up only low-skill jobs, one writer thinks that doctors should be legitimately concerned about the prospect of computers performing their jobs better.

Something is killing off farms of shellfish. Gwynn Guilford compiles an overwhelming summary of research from scientists that points to the changing climate and increased carbon emissions as the cause. 

Addictive habits are hard to stop. But one study has found a trigger for that “need it now” attitude that stops quitters from quitting. Photos of attractive women women are enough to have men reaching for a cigarette.

It doesn’t matter if you’re at a healthy weight, just one point added to your BMI will increase your risk of cardiovascular and other diseases, according to a recent study.

Occupying a place of higher social status keeps you healthier and more resistant to disease, even without the trappings of wealth and power which we normally associate with status.

Scientists who have spent years writing in highly technical terms sometimes need guidance for how to phrase concepts and processes in ways laypeople can understand.

Torturing a suspect because he or she has knowledge of an imminent attack has more to do with feelings of retribution than the cool-headed utilitarian calculus normally supposed.

What killed the dinosaurs? Scientists have been arguing over the possibilities for years. But new evidence may muddy the waters for the popular asteroid theory.

Although he’s not a fan of the term, Dan Harris cites the practice of purposeful pauses as a superpower of sorts that can help restore one’s inner calm.

A dark period from the past of psychiatry risks being forgotten, we can’t allow that to happen.

The future of creativity may depend on younger generations being taught computer coding skills just as they are taught foreign languages, mathematics, and science. 

Dogs are just as susceptible to humanity’s growing weight problem. But a new study shows that owners are willing to act when they realize their pets’ lives are at risk.

At a foundational, psychological level, putting off your responsibilities for what seems like innocent short-term pleasure is a powerful emotional coping mechanism.

Nutrition Facts on food packages require some study in order to understand what it all means. The UK seeks to implement a new system, but it may make a diet soda look healthier than a basket of strawberries.

Despite widespread belief in the myth that sugar causes hyperactivity, scientists have known for more than two decades that the link is all in the mind.

Prescription opiates help relieve the short-term pains resulting from surgery and some injuries. But many are falling into addiction.