Today: October 05, 2024
Today: October 05, 2024

WrittenByLAPost

Health|WrittenByLAPost

FAA blasted over "outdated" pilot mental health rules

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is facing renewed scrutiny over its pilots’ mental health policies. This comes after an off-duty Alaska Airlines captain allegedly tried to crash a commercial flight, later telling police he was depressed. The incident has reignited calls for the FAA to reform its stringent medical certification process that deters pilots from seeking mental health treatment over fears it could ground them.   Critics argue the FAA’s antiquated approach perpetuates a culture of shame and silence around pilots’ mental health issues. They say the agency’s blunt messaging and threat of revoked licenses cause many to avoid treatment altogether.

February 29, 2024
FAA blasted over "outdated" pilot mental health rules
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Understanding the "Pick-Me" girl. The truth behind the label

The phrase “pick-me girl” emerged as various generations discussed internalized sexism – specifically, the issues that arise when women seek validation from others, particularly men. Middle and high school girls are starting to call out friends who seem too eager to please boys or try to fit into traditional ideas of what a girl should be like.  While the intentions behind the “pick-me girl” accusation are complex, mental health experts urge greater empathy from teens. They note that these behaviors often come from a developmentally normal desire to find belonging within friend groups. In today’s hyperconnected era, with enhanced visibility

February 27, 2024
Understanding the "Pick-Me" girl. The truth behind the label
Entertainment|Food|WrittenByLAPost

Your salt container is more useful than you think

The Morton Salt shaker revelation has sparked imaginative speculation around other possible hidden features in everyday household items. TikTokers have taken to testing hunches as some wonder if the handhold indents reveal storage for extra packets. Or if the ridges circling chapstick tubes could pull off to store tiny snacks. Online discussions have brought whimsical ideas ranging from secret tools tucked in potato chip bags to unfoldable drinking straws hiding in the cardboard of toilet paper rolls. This flood of creativity signals that while advancing technology shoulders much future innovation, consumers still appreciate cleverness in simplicity. “I love those videos

February 27, 2024
Your salt container is more useful than you think
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Breadcrumbing: The dating trend that leaves you starving for more affection

The damaging dating phenomenon labeled as “toxic breadcrumbing” leaves individuals struggling between optimism and despair. Breadcrumbing involves pretending to be romantically interested by sporadically offering attention that ultimately leads to nothing substantial. This manipulative conduct compels targets to fixate on someone incapable of making a genuine commitment. While breadcrumbing can happen in other contexts, it most commonly occurs in modern dating, where technology makes offering fleeting spurts of affection easy. The psychology behind why it works involves “intermittent reinforcement.” You keep trying for more when rewards come randomly, like from a slot machine.  Breadcrumbing takes an insidious emotional toll. Targets

February 26, 2024
Breadcrumbing: The dating trend that leaves you starving for more affection
Health|WrittenByLAPost

The hidden epidemic of compulsive skin picking

Excoriation disorder, also called skin picking disorder, is a mental illness in which people can’t stop picking at their skin, sometimes so badly that they draw blood and hurt themselves.. Research shows that skin picking provides momentary relief from difficult emotions and anxiety. This disorder is officially recognized as a type of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and body-focused repetitive behavior in the DSM-5 psychiatric manual. Skin picking tends to be a chronic condition that is linked to underlying mental health issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, and body image issues. Although misunderstood, skin picking disorder causes great distress and impairment for millions

February 26, 2024
The hidden epidemic of compulsive skin picking
Economy|Sports|WrittenByLAPost

No sky-high rides to Dodger games as the stadium halts its gondola project

An ambitious plan for an aerial gondola transit system connecting Dodger Stadium to Union Station in downtown Los Angeles has been put on hold. The plan was hailed as an innovative way to solve the long-standing traffic problems around the stadium. In February 2023, Eunisses Hernandez, a Los Angeles City Council member, officially presented a motion calling for more thorough research into the possible adverse effects of building the $125 million project. Specifically, Hernandez asserts the voluminous final environmental impact report compiled by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) fails to adequately address resident worries over exacerbating quality-of-life

February 23, 2024
No sky-high rides to Dodger games as the stadium halts its gondola project
Economy|Food|WrittenByLAPost

Hidden fees and false promises: L.A. County takes aim at Grubhub

A convenient app for ordering takeout has turned into a bait-and-switch scam. That’s the allegation in a lawsuit filed this week by Los Angeles County against Grubhub, the nation’s largest food delivery app. The suit accuses Grubhub of layering on hidden fees, falsely claiming drivers receive healthcare benefits, and misleading both customers and restaurants to pad its profits. The lawsuit lands amid growing outrage over Grubhub’s business practices. Customers have complained of inflated costs and orders never delivered. Restaurants say they’re getting gouged by unexplained fees and refunds. And drivers claim Grubhub’s healthcare and fair pay promises are an “outright

February 23, 2024
Hidden fees and false promises: L.A. County takes aim at Grubhub
Health|Food|WrittenByLAPost

Outraged guest exposes hotel's $20 frozen Trader Joe's meal scam

A recent viral TikTok video has sparked outrage and raised concerns over the authenticity of some hotels’ room service offerings. The video, posted by Elle McLemore, exposes how one upscale hotel tried to pass off a $3.79 frozen Trader Joe’s meal as a $20 “Calming Cacio e Pepe Pasta with Truffle Oil” room service order. This deceitful bait-and-switch signals broader issues around truth-in-marketing and transparency from hotels. It also speaks to the loss of trust between hospitality providers and increasingly savvy consumers in the social media age. Most disturbingly, it highlights how some hotels are flat-out lying to charge exorbitant

February 22, 2024
Outraged guest exposes hotel's $20 frozen Trader Joe's meal scam
Local|WrittenByLAPost

Uncovering Griffith Park's hidden gems beyond the Hollywood sign

Stretching over 4,200 acres of hills, canyons, and wilderness within Los Angeles’ urban borders, Griffith Park has always been far more than just another city park. Though it draws comparisons to iconic parks in other major cities like New York and San Francisco, Griffith Park has its unique history and character. Over time, its landscape has transformed from farmland to refugee camps during the Great Depression, providing temporary housing for struggling families. Those same hillsides later became platforms for civil rights protests and rallies, megaphones for speaking truth to power. Today, Griffith Park offers both recreation and respite from city

February 22, 2024
Uncovering Griffith Park's hidden gems beyond the Hollywood sign
Local|WrittenByLAPost

Ten magnificent waterfalls are waiting to be discovered near Los Angeles

Nestled in the majestic canyons and valleys of Los Angeles County lie hidden gems—surreal waterfalls offering a magical escape from the urban jungle. As spring approaches, rains nourish these natural wonders, transforming many from a quiet trickle into roaring cascades.  The allure is undeniable, yet chasing waterfalls requires responsible planning. Trails are easy to extremely strenuous; some routes contain sheer drop-offs or require tricky rock-scrambling. Poison oak abounds. But for those willing to venture out prepared, magnificent rewards await. “There’s something so rejuvenating about finding these hidden oases and taking in the peaceful sound of falling water surrounded by nature,”

February 20, 2024
Ten magnificent waterfalls are waiting to be discovered near Los Angeles
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Out of sight, out of mind? Revealing Autism's hidden suicide risk

As autism diagnoses rise to 1 in 36 children, the community is grappling with a troubling threat – escalating suicide risks that have long gone overlooked. New research reveals people with autism face substantially higher chances of dying by suicide compared to the general population. A comprehensive study from the University of Toronto analyzing decades of medical data found alarming figures. Females with ASD faced an 83% increased risk of self-harm and a staggering 98% heightened risk of suicide death. Male suicide odds rose as well to 34%, with a 47% uplift in self-harm odds. Overall, 1 in 4 young

February 20, 2024
Out of sight, out of mind? Revealing Autism's hidden suicide risk
Health|Technology|WrittenByLAPost

Are high-beam headlights too bright? You’re not alone.

As you drive down rain-slicked highways or winding rural roads late at night, have you recently found yourself squinting against the glare of oncoming headlights that seem brighter than ever? You’re not alone on the road. In recent years, high-intensity LED headlights have rapidly overtaken old halogen bulbs across most vehicles. While these crisper white lights provide improved visibility for drivers, they also cause mass discomfort and frustration, according to experts and many drivers. Jennifer Stockburger, the director of operations at the renowned Consumer Reports Auto Test Center, confirmed that LED lights are “whiter in color” compared to the yellowish

February 20, 2024
Are high-beam headlights too bright? You’re not alone.
Food|WrittenByLAPost

Spicy snacks and sublime sweets: Inside Trader Joe's customers' top picks

Trader Joe’s fans have decided on the most obsessively devoured foods. The envelopes have been sealed, votes cast, and cravings accounted for. Now, step this way across aisles packed fuller than your reusable tote bags to discover the savory, sweet treats and convenient fan favorites deemed irresistible in Trader Joe’s 15th Annual Customer Choice Awards. From the snack you can’t stop reaching for to the frozen meal you eagerly anticipated all day, find out which beloved products shoppers voted to the top of charts and stomachs this past year. As Trader Joe’s continues expanding its reach across America, over half

February 20, 2024
Spicy snacks and sublime sweets: Inside Trader Joe's customers' top picks
Entertainment|WrittenByLAPost

What's behind males' Roman fixation? TikTok's latest viral craze explains it all

A new and amusing trend is grabbing women’s attention on TikTok – their male partner’s obsession with the “Roman Empire”. This viral trend began after Swedish influencer Saskia Cort asked her followers to check in with their boyfriends and husbands to see how often they think about this ancient civilization. Her prompt came up again last August thanks to Gaius Flavius, a fellow history buff – sparking many videos of puzzled women realizing just how often the men in their lives daydream about Caesar’s exploits, the beauty of aqueducts, and the brutality of ancient warfare. Views have skyrocketed into the

February 16, 2024
What's behind males' Roman fixation? TikTok's latest viral craze explains it all
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Instagram's game-changing move: New teen accounts tackle online safety crisis

Instagram has taken a major step towards addressing teen safety concerns with the introduction of Instagram Teen Accounts on September 17, 2024. This new feature is designed to automatically place teens in safer online environments and provide parents with greater peace of mind about their children’s Instagram experiences. Teen Accounts come with a suite of built-in protections, including private accounts by default, stricter messaging settings, and enhanced content filtering to limit exposure to potentially harmful material. The launch of Teen Accounts represents a significant shift in how the platform approaches youth safety, responding to longstanding concerns about the risks teens

February 16, 2024
Instagram's game-changing move: New teen accounts tackle online safety crisis
Local|WrittenByLAPost

15 Scenic spots to discover in and around Los Angeles

Tucked away in pockets across Los Angeles, hidden portals transport visitors into fantastical realms brimming with wonder. Behind unassuming facades of strip malls and residential streets, secret dimensions overflow with marvelous imagination unencumbered by reality’s constraints. Tire of the concrete jungle? The City of Angels unfurls myriad magical escapes right in its own backyard for those daring to peek behind the curtain.  Through this looking glass, vibrant mosaic tile forests gleam like Oz’s Emerald City while an impossibly precise Egyptian temple replica looms larger than imagination. Spiritual solace emanates from lakefront Buddhist temples to palatial Hindu shrines worthy of their

February 16, 2024
15 Scenic spots to discover in and around Los Angeles
Health|WrittenByLAPost

The invisible trauma: Self-harm by teens kept secret

There is a youth mental health disaster going on underneath the surface because of the alarming rise in self-harm among American teens in the past few years. As more parents deal with the heartbreaking news that their child is hurting themselves on purpose, fear, anger, and a lack of control are common emotions. According to new information, up to 20% of teens now hurt themselves in some way, like cutting, burning, pulling out their hair, or something else. This scary number shows a big rise over the last ten years, which mental health professionals say is because of the stress

February 16, 2024
The invisible trauma: Self-harm by teens kept secret
Local|Food|WrittenByLAPost

Only in Los Angeles: 7 restaurants defining the city

Los Angeles is known for having a wide range of new and interesting restaurants, from fancy ones with Michelin stars to quick food on the street. In this article, we explore ten restaurants in Los Angeles, exemplifying the city’s ascendant food scene through excellence in cuisine, service, and atmosphere. Mírate on North Vermont Avenue prepares traditional Mexican fare with local ingredients, earning praise for standouts like Yucatán-style cochinita pibil served with plantains alongside inventive specials like crab tostadas with exquisite corn. Vibrant decor complements the modern yet authentic cooking in this lively venue, championing regional Mexican cooking. Tucked away in

February 15, 2024
Only in Los Angeles: 7 restaurants defining the city
Local|WrittenByLAPost

6 Hot Springs just outside of LA!

A relaxing alternative to a pricey spa day is California’s hot springs. They let you get away from everyday life and enjoy nature. People in Los Angeles are lucky to live near some of the most beautiful natural hot springs. These six natural hot springs are the perfect place to get away for a cheap getaway.  Just a short drive from LA in San Bernardino County’s Mojave Desert rests Tecopa Hot Springs, a stunning aquatic gem with grass-lined pools in a shade of aquamarine. Four million years in the making, the piping hot, mineral-rich waters and panoramic Death Valley views

February 14, 2024
6 Hot Springs just outside of LA!
Economy|WrittenByLAPost

Woman nabs $2,500 in Stanley cups, lands in jail

Last week, the Roseville Police Department said that on January 17th, a 23-year-old California woman was arrested for reportedly stealing 65 Stanley brand water bottles totaling almost $2,500. Stanley insulated cups and bottles have gained popularity over the past few years, and some of them are now selling online for more than 10 times their original price. Police say store staff witnessed the woman fill a shopping cart with Stanley water bottles and attempt to leave the store without paying. When staff tried to stop her, she refused and loaded the stolen merchandise into her car. Store staff reported the

February 14, 2024
Woman nabs $2,500 in Stanley cups, lands in jail
Health|WrittenByLAPost

The hidden dangers behind laundry detergent pods

A new study published in Clinical Toxicology revealed a disturbing upward trend – poisonings from laundry detergent pods are increasing among older children, teenagers, and adults. Over a recent three-year period, U.S. poison control centers received over 36,000 calls related to liquid laundry detergent pod exposures, averaging one call every 44 minutes. While the majority of vulnerabilities (87%) were in children under six, nine linked deaths were in adults. This trend raises critical questions about the safety of laundry pods and why ingestion is rising in demographics old enough to know better. The increase in laundry pod poisoning in older

February 13, 2024
The hidden dangers behind laundry detergent pods
Technology|WrittenByLAPost

Can this tiny nuclear battery finally liberate life from the plug?

China’s recent unveiling of a miniature “nuclear battery” with a functional lifespan of up to 50 years, developed by Beijing-based startup Betavolt, has generated both optimism and ethical concerns within the scientific community. The technology aims to revolutionize power sources for electronic devices by converting energy released from radioactive decay into steady electric output. Betavolt’s initial BV100 prototype uses the nickel-63 isotope as its radioactive fuel. This nickel radionuclide, with a 100-year half-life, gradually sheds electrons as it decays. The emitted energy gets captured by thin layers of diamond semiconductors within the battery unit, generating usable electricity. The company claims

February 13, 2024
Can this tiny nuclear battery finally liberate life from the plug?
Food|Local|WrittenByLAPost

The surprising ingredient that makes you crave Mexican food

For nearly a century, the aroma of sizzling carne asada and the sweet tang of salsa has become one of Los Angeles’s distinctive signature meals. Ever since old-school spots like El Cholo Cafe first opened their doors back in 1923, Mexican restaurants have only multiplied across the city – over 5,500 places to grab tacos or margaritas county-wide today.  Their sheer numbers point to more than just good food, though. They show the fierce pride that Latino families here feel in preserving the special recipes and customs that grandparents and great-grandparents brought decades ago from Mexican hometowns they still cherish.

February 12, 2024
The surprising ingredient that makes you crave Mexican food
Local|Entertainment|WrittenByLAPost

Where legends were made: Inside LA’s iconic entertainment venues

Los Angeles has been a major cultural center thanks to venues such as the Hollywood Bowl, The Wiltern, Greek Theatre, Los Angeles Theatre, and Hollywood Palladium. Notable performances and cultural events have occurred in its famed theaters and concert halls, leaving an indelible mark on history. Their unique architecture and rich histories have hosted unforgettable concerts, movie debuts, and star-studded events – propelling the city into an international entertainment epicenter. For almost a century, these landmarks have fuelled Los Angeles’ ascent to become the world’s entertainment capital. The breathtaking shell-shaped outdoor stage of the Hollywood Bowl became a live music

February 07, 2024
Where legends were made: Inside LA’s iconic entertainment venues
Entertainment|WrittenByLAPost

The 2024 L.A. concert schedule offers something for everyone

Los Angeles is widely acknowledged as a significant center for entertainment, especially in light of its well-known music sector.. From little venues along the Sunset Strip to big stadiums hosting notable bands, Greater LA offers a variety of concert and entertainment locations ideal for famous performers and emerging talents. This year presents another selection of must-watch shows in different music styles, such as rock, hip-hop, and classical.  The Hollywood Bowl is arguably the most famous of Los Angeles music venues. The curved, shell-shaped open-air theater located in the Hollywood Hills has welcomed a wide range of performers, including Billie Holliday

February 06, 2024
The 2024 L.A. concert schedule offers something for everyone
Health|WrittenByLAPost

New study shows black teens crumbling under an "avalanche" of trauma

A new study in JAMA Psychiatry sheds light on the alarming effects online racism has on Black adolescents’ mental well-being. Researchers discovered that Black children and teenagers who encounter racial discrimination online may develop symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The research involved 525 African American adolescents aged 11-19. Heading the research was Dr. Ashley Denise Maxie-Moreman, a child psychologist from Children’s National Hospital in Washington D.C. Dr. Maxie-Moreman acknowledged cyberbullying troubles all children but emphasized for African American minors, web-based racial harassment poses heightened hazards. The participants reported several PTSD symptoms in response to online racism, including feeling on

February 06, 2024
New study shows black teens crumbling under an "avalanche" of trauma
Economy|WrittenByLAPost

Will you get a $550 check? Michigan tax rebate payments start arriving soon

Beginning February 13, over 700,000 low and middle-income Michigan families will start receiving tax rebate checks averaging $550 under an expanded state tax credit program. The extra cash comes from $1 billion in tax cuts signed into law last year by Governor Gretchen Whitmer. It represents welcome relief for households facing rising costs of living statewide. The payments originate from enhancements to Michigan’s Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), which benefits lower wage earners. The state matched the credit to 30% of the federal EITC amount from just 6%. The change created billions in tax savings that officials now return directly

February 06, 2024
Will you get a $550 check? Michigan tax rebate payments start arriving soon
Food|Entertainment|WrittenByLAPost

Blazed buffalo wings: The new high flying Super Bowl snack

Just in time for the biggest sports event of the year, a new THC-infused buffalo wing sauce is hitting the shelves, promising to spice up Super Bowl parties across Chicago and “revolutionize” the cannabis industry. Cresco Labs, one of Illinois’ most prominent cannabis companies, has partnered with local restaurant Fifty/50 in Wicker Park to produce “Good News THC Buffalo Sauce” – a 100mg THC, 10oz jar of buffalo wing sauce meant to coat 20-24 wings. With 3-5mg of THC per wing, the sauce provides a buzz and the traditional spicy kick of buffalo flavor. The new product launch taps into

February 06, 2024
Blazed buffalo wings: The new high flying Super Bowl snack
Political|Local|WrittenByLAPost

As California's primary nears, here are key dates and must-knows

Every other year, residents of California participate in the statewide primary election. On March 5, 2024, Californians can vote in presidential and local elections, as well as other statewide issues. With mail-in ballots going out next month to all 22 million registered voters, the election also brings some new voting rules and key deadlines that will test the state’s dedication to encouraging participation. To register in California, you must: You can easily register online through the Secretary of State’s website. You can also sign up in person at county offices, the DMV, post offices, or public libraries. The key dates

February 02, 2024
As California's primary nears, here are key dates and must-knows
Economy|WrittenByLAPost

Leaked memo reveals United Airlines no tolerance policy

A leaked internal United Airlines memo reveals the airline plans to crack down on flight attendants using personal electronic devices while on duty, threatening disciplinary action “up to and including termination.” The harsh policy aims to improve inflight safety and customer service quality but seems overly strict given the ubiquity of smartphones in modern life. The memo, shared anonymously by flight attendants, mandates no personal device usage “while customers are on board the aircraft, with the exception of crew rest” (Live and Let’s Fly). United argues attendants cannot “provide visible and attentive service to customers” if distracted by phones and

February 02, 2024
Leaked memo reveals United Airlines no tolerance policy
Economy|WrittenByLAPost

How this former burglar cased neighborhood will disturb you

Jennifer Gomez spent nearly ten years in a Florida prison for repeatedly targeting homes in burglary sprees. Now reformed, she candidly shares her past methods on TikTok, hoping to help homeowners better secure their properties. “I’m just telling you guys what my life was like because maybe it’ll help somebody,” Gomez explained in a video that has drawn almost 2 million views. Gomez would start by checking the weather, preferring rainy days that kept people indoors. “The nastier it was, the better off I was,” she admitted. Sunny days led her to more isolated houses with fewer eyewitnesses. She knew

January 31, 2024
How this former burglar cased neighborhood will disturb you
Entertainment|WrittenByLAPost

Instagram-famous groom snubs plea deal before lavish wedding

Jacob LaGrone’s extravagant 5-day wedding in Paris was dubbed “the wedding of the century” on TikTok. However, unbeknownst to many, the groom faced serious accusations behind the scenes of the wedding that might have led to his life being sentenced to prison. LaGrone, 29, was indicted on three counts of aggravated assault against a police officer- a first-degree felony – for the March 14 encounter. According to the indictment, LaGrone “did intentionally or knowingly threaten” the officers “with imminent bodily injury” by using a deadly weapon – a firearm. If convicted, he could be sentenced to up to life in

January 31, 2024
Instagram-famous groom snubs plea deal before lavish wedding
Education|Economy|WrittenByLAPost

These Associate majors hit $100K

New research reveals associate degree holders in specific lucrative fields like physical science technologies or radiation therapy out-earn the average bachelor’s graduate just a few years after finishing cheaper, shorter two-year programs. Analysis by former Department of Education expert Michael Itzkowitz’s HEA Group spotlights 17 specific majors where mid-career pay surpasses typical four-year degree incomes, defying stereotypes about vocational credentials’ diminished value. Findings emphasize that college major factors as heavily as institutional prestige for many careers, informing cost-benefit calculations amid spiraling university tuition rates. “With associate degrees, oftentimes the major matters more than the institution itself,” Itzkowitz explained of the

January 30, 2024
These Associate majors hit $100K
World|WrittenByLAPost

How three Zebras escaped from a private farm

In August 2021, three zebras that got away thrilled the whole country. But when their difficult past came to light, it showed that the exotic animal trade had serious problems with regulation. People in rural Maryland were confused when the zebras showed up out of the blue. Soon, though, the amazement turned to fear when two zebras were discovered dead in strange ways. The deaths set off a cascade of turmoil around owner Jerry Lee Holly, 78, whose exotic animal businesses have operated for decades despite chronic legal violations. Prince George’s County officials charged Holly with animal cruelty misdemeanors for

January 30, 2024
How three Zebras escaped from a private farm
Technology|WrittenByLAPost

Why we're going numb to the world's pain

In a world that is becoming more and more connected, people are becoming more overwhelmed by disasters to the point that they shut down emotions to cope. Researchers see this as a sign of “compassion fatigue,” and with that comes serious consequences. Experts are now scrambling to counter this emotional numbness and reinvigorate human empathy. “When someone has compassion fatigue, they feel like there’s a lot happening and they don’t know where to start and what to do, so sometimes they will turn off their emotions,” said Gabriela Murza, assistant professor at Utah State University who educates on trauma impacts

January 30, 2024
Why we're going numb to the world's pain
World|WrittenByLAPost

Catfishing ex-cop slaughters three

The Virginia law enforcement department that recently recruited Austin Lee Edwards—the “catfishing cop” responsible for the November murders of three members of a Riverside, California family—is now facing a new lawsuit that claims carelessness on their part. Victims’ families have filed a lawsuit in Central California’s U.S. District Court, accusing Edwards’ estate and the Virginia sheriff’s office of their role in the murders of the Winek family. In addition to allegations of careless recruiting, oversight, and retention, the case contends that further wrongdoings transpired, including violations of Fourth Amendment rights. On November 25, the unfortunate incidents occurred when Edwards went

January 29, 2024
Catfishing ex-cop slaughters three
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Does social media harm mental health?

A controversial new study from Oxford University experts says that more people using the internet has not really changed global mental health trends. The large study of over two million people from 168 countries, which was published in Nature Human Behaviour, tried to settle different ideas about how technology affects people’s minds. Even though they don’t see a clear threat, experts agree that they don’t have enough data to measure the effects in the real world. “There is no smoking gun to confirm that digital technologies are dangerously messing with the human psyche on a grand scale,” said co-author Andrew

January 27, 2024
Does social media harm mental health?
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Eating Disorders Striking Men as Often as Women

A concerning new body of research shows that eating disorders and disordered eating behaviors in men have reached epidemic proportions, now impacting millions of American males across backgrounds. Analyzing federal health surveys over two decades, a 2022 study in the American Journal of Men’s Health estimates that 10 million boys and men nationwide will experience an eating disorder at some point – equal to the female incidence rate. That disturbing parity spotlights insufficient awareness and resources dedicated towards male-specific risks, diagnoses, and treatment, given outdated cultural biases positioning eating disorders as afflicting mainly young, thin white women. “The assumption among

January 24, 2024
Eating Disorders Striking Men as Often as Women
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Experts Link Social Media to Uptick in Teen Eating Disorders

New research shows that TikTok’s algorithms promote unhealthy eating and unrealistic body image among vulnerable teens. Based on their analysis of popular nutrition and weight videos, researchers from the University of Vermont claim that the “For You” feed, which never ends, contributes to harmful diet culture by subjecting young users to moralized, oversimplified messages from unqualified influencers. Led by senior author Dr. Lizzy Pope, director of UVM’s Didactic Program in Dietetics, the team raised alarms over TikTok overriding legitimate experts to promote thinness and restrictive dieting as the sole path to health. Researchers warn TikTok may fuel disordered eating and

January 24, 2024
Experts Link Social Media to Uptick in Teen Eating Disorders
Economy|WrittenByLAPost

First In-N-Out to close permanently

For the first time in its 75-year history, the iconic West Coast burger chain In-N-Out announced it is permanently closing one of its restaurants – the lone Oakland, California location – on March 24 due to rampant crime plaguing the area. In a statement, In-N-Out Chief Operating Officer Denny Warnick cited the alarming frequency of “car break-ins, property damage, theft, and armed robberies” victimizing customers and employees as leaving them “no alternative” but to shutter entirely. He confirmed that despite being a busy and profitable venue, the company refuses to “ask [customers or staff] to visit or work in an

January 23, 2024
First In-N-Out to close permanently
Food|WrittenByLAPost

 L.A.: Where Sushi Dreams Are Made

It only took 50 years for sushi to go from being a strange, exotic dish to a regular part of American cuisine. The delicious Japanese cuisine is thought to have first arrived in America in the late 1960s from Kawafuku Restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles. Noritoshi Kanai, a Japanese immigrant, opened Kawafuku to serve local Japanese businesses. However, the restaurant quickly became popular with Americans. Now staples in sushi, Kanai fearlessly imported marine urchin from Santa Barbara and fatty tuna belly from fishermen on the East Coast who had tossed the cutaway. Kawafuku ushered in the first wave of

January 23, 2024
 L.A.: Where Sushi Dreams Are Made
Health|WrittenByLAPost

When does mental health slang go too far? The line is blurry

Thanks to Gen Z, conversations about mental health are finally coming out of the shadows through a new vocabulary permeating pop culture. Quirky terms like “stressy and depressed” and “menty b” are destigmatizing struggles previous generations brushed under the rug. But experts now debate if lighthearted lingo risks trivializing real illness or enabling avoidance of proper care. Trendy phrases help alleviate stigma, according to therapist Michael Dzwil. “Saying ‘I had a menty b’ takes control of the narrative,” he said of the slang meaning mental breakdown. Social media spaces allow young people to bond over shared troubles with peers facing similar

January 23, 2024
When does mental health slang go too far? The line is blurry
Entertainment|WrittenByLAPost

Artificial Intelligence Is Reshaping Music And Not Everyone’s A Fan

Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing songwriting, causing huge upheaval in the music industry. Demonstrations of new software demonstrate how technology can generate creative melodies, imitate distinctive vocal styles, and produce entire instrumental songs with little assistance from humans. Tech developers praise the democratizing power behind these tools to open music creation to more people. “We always knew technology would disrupt our business,” said an April statement from Universal Music Group (UMG), the label titan representing mega-stars like Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, and Kendrick Lamar. “But AI threatens to fracture the fragile bonds between artists and fans.” The company has led lobbying

January 18, 2024
Artificial Intelligence Is Reshaping Music And Not Everyone’s A Fan
Food|Health|WrittenByLAPost

Looking Beyond the Hype: What the Evidence Really Says About Kale

Kale is the vegetable that divides people the most, going from being a star favorite to an over-the-top health risk. Health-conscious fans rave about the vegetable’s abundant nutrients – from vitamin A for immunity to lutein for eye health. They also point to compounds called glucosinolates, which show promise in cancer prevention. Yet critics argue that anti-nutrient properties and thyroid risks outweigh potential benefits for many people. So beyond trends, what does unbiased science conclude on balance about routinely eating these greens? Dr. Amy Litchman is the lead expert on the effects of nutrition at Stanford. She doesn’t believe either

January 10, 2024
Looking Beyond the Hype: What the Evidence Really Says About Kale
Economy|WrittenByLAPost

How an Affordable Beachside Neighborhood Transformed into Billionaire's Row

For decades, Paradise Cove embodied the spirit of a modest middle-class mobile home community. With scenic views attracting families more interested in beach living than gated prestige, neighbors left their doors unlocked, and kids wandered freely to play. There was a real sense of community, where people looked out for each other and appreciated the simple pleasures of beachside living. However, over time, as word spread of this hidden gem, outsiders took interest, and the once under-the-radar park transformed from an affordable offbeat neighborhood to a celebrity battleground saturated with seven-figure wheeled mansions and non-stop drama among rich and famous

January 10, 2024
How an Affordable Beachside Neighborhood Transformed into Billionaire's Row
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Do you make this mistake when it comes to nutrition?

Trail runners face big challenges figuring out proper food intake on rough paths. The steep up-and-down hills burn way more calories than running on flat roads. According to new statistics, more than 40% of people are unable to fuel their bodies adequately, resulting in both visible and invisible injuries. The study, surveying nearly 2,000 trail runners, reveals over 4 in 10 display symptoms of inadequate calorie consumption for required effort. Such nutritional deficits yield measurable harm. “Low energy availability occurs when the body doesn’t get enough calories to power vital processes after strenuous exercise,” explains lead researcher and elite trail

January 08, 2024
Do you make this mistake when it comes to nutrition?
Entertainment|WrittenByLAPost

From Couple Goals To Separate Lives: Why Tinseltown Love Stories Are Ending

The sound of wedding bells has been replaced by the loud noise of divorce papers being filed in the world of celebrities. This year witnessed the conclusion of several enduring Hollywood couples, surprising fans and prompting speculation about the existence of true love in the entertainment industry. Hugh Jackman and Deborra-lee Furness stunned the world in September by announcing their separation after 27 years of marriage. The couple had been viewed as rock solid and were frequently held up as role models, making their split all the more unexpected. As reported, the breakup appeared amicable, with no mention of cheating

January 08, 2024
From Couple Goals To Separate Lives: Why Tinseltown Love Stories Are Ending
Health|WrittenByLAPost

When Social Feeds Bring More Harm Than Good

Do those scenic vacation photos filling your feed spark joy or leave you depleted? Mounting clinical research reveals social media’s double-edged impact on mental health. Behind the veil of likes and filters lies a complex psychological chain reaction that both connects and isolates users. As you mindlessly scroll through the highlight reels of acquaintances living their best lives, a slither of envy turns to inadequacy before cascading into full-blown anxiety. Yet moments later a new notification alerts you to an old friend reaching out across the distance thanks to the very same platforms facilitating FOMO fueling your funk. The takeaway?

January 05, 2024
When Social Feeds Bring More Harm Than Good
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Peeing in the shower: harmless habit or hidden health hazard?

Does urine wash safely down the drain, or could peeing in the shower come back to bite you? New research reveals doing your business while bathing exposes surprising health risks between the tiles. As you stand there enjoying the steamy warmth enveloping your body, that familiar tingling urge suddenly strikes. You reason just a little pee can’t hurt anything amid the soothing hot water cascading over your feet. Yet growing scientific evidence demonstrates even this seemingly harmless shower move harbors hidden hazards that could seriously dampen your day if you let down your guard while soaping up. Repeated exposure to

January 05, 2024
Peeing in the shower: harmless habit or hidden health hazard?
Health|WrittenByLAPost

The Power of Intentions: Why Intentions Beat Diet Resolutions

As the calendar flips to January, Lucy is tempted by the glossy magazine covers at the grocery checkout, promising rapid weight loss through restrictive regimens. She eyes the bold declarations to “Lose 10 Pounds Fast!” and “Drop 2 Sizes By Spring!” After indulging over the holidays, part of Lucy feels drawn to make an ambitious weight loss pledge for the new year. Yet the 35-year-old mom worries about falling short of rigid goals that could torpedo her self-esteem. This January, Lucy contemplates a different approach. Across America, the annual ritual of New Year’s resolutions often focuses squarely on diets and

December 21, 2023
The Power of Intentions: Why Intentions Beat Diet Resolutions
Economy|Travel|WrittenByLAPost

DOT Fines Southwest Airlines $140M Over 2022 Meltdown

The knives came out for Southwest Airlines Monday as the Department of Transportation (DOT) slapped the carrier with a record $140 million fine resulting from massive flight disruptions stranding countless travelers over Christmas 2022. The penalty dwarfs previous settlements and signals regulators’ dwindling patience for operational meltdowns, leaving fliers high and dry.Southwest faced the DOT’s wrath over its systemic collapse in the week leading up to Christmas after a winter storm overwhelmed outdated crew scheduling technology. The cascading cancellations swelled to nearly 17,000 flights, disrupting travel plans for upwards of 2 million customers purchasing higher-yield holiday tickets long in advance.

December 21, 2023
DOT Fines Southwest Airlines $140M Over 2022 Meltdown
Travel|WrittenByLAPost

Airlines reveal the eye-opening reality behind most flight delays

“We’ll make up the time in the air,” the gate agent tells waiting passengers when a flight is delayed. Behind the scenes, the pilots give each other knowing looks, knowing short delays from weather constraints, repairs, or a crowded airport rarely get made up once the plane takes off, especially on short flights. Still, telling this little white lie is expected in the airline industry. It helps keep passengers calm. “While we might make up some time on long flights, we usually only gain back 5-10 minutes on a typical delayed short flight,” admits Nick Anderson, a pilot with 15

December 20, 2023
Airlines reveal the eye-opening reality behind most flight delays
Economy|WrittenByLAPost

New Visa program offers relief, but leaves families behind

A new pilot program by the State Department enabled H-1B visa holders to extend their work authorizations within the United States, which will conspicuously omit their dependents. This primarily affects the spouses and children of these skilled foreign workers, a significant aspect that has yet to be disclosed. Despite businesses and advocates viewing the pilot as a crucial initial move towards modernizing an antiquated visa renewal system, there is disappointment regarding the necessity for family members to undergo overseas travel, often incurring substantial expenses and causing disruption. The H-1B program has evolved into a crucial avenue for American businesses to

December 20, 2023
New Visa program offers relief, but leaves families behind
Economy|WrittenByLAPost

California Eviction Law Firm Draws Heat for AI-Laced Court Filing

A prominent California eviction law firm has come under fire after submitting an AI-generated court document containing fictitious case law, spurring debate on ethical AI use in legal proceedings. Dennis P. Block & Associates, the self-proclaimed “leading eviction law firm” in the state, was recently sanctioned by a Los Angeles County Superior Court judge for a filing crowded with fabricated citations.   The incident raised concerns about accountability and integrity in eviction cases, where outcomes have major consequences for vulnerable renters. While AI tools like ChatGPT hold the potential for efficiency gains, experts warn they require diligent supervision to prevent factual

December 20, 2023
California Eviction Law Firm Draws Heat for AI-Laced Court Filing
Economy|WrittenByLAPost

“Seafaring Bandits” Terrorize San Francisco Bay, Targeting Houseboats

A dramatic surge in maritime crime targeting houseboats and yachts has alarmed residents along the shores and waterways of San Francisco Bay. Over the past several months, daring thefts and acts of vandalism have become increasingly common, forcing victims to confront the perpetrators themselves without an effective law enforcement response.   The coastal communities dotting the San Francisco Bay have seen a marked spike in crimes committed on the water by what locals have dubbed “seafaring bandits.” Former harbor master Brock de Lappe expressed grave concern over the situation at a recent municipal meeting, stating, “The open shoreline of the estuary

December 19, 2023
“Seafaring Bandits” Terrorize San Francisco Bay, Targeting Houseboats
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Why frequent flyers should skip the steamy shower post-flight

Travys Carinci typically logs almost 60,000 air miles monthly, crisscrossing Australia for work. But the veteran airline operations manager skips steamy showers upon returning home from grubby planes and airports despite yearning to scrub off germs. Why forgo a steamy shower? The health of the human body’s largest organ – the skin. “I skip overly hot showers which, even though it is tempting after a long flight, is a surefire way to dry out your skin,” Carinci revealed to Condé Nast Traveller, urging cooler cleansing for frequent flyer skin integrity. After inevitably contacting dubious surfaces and strangers gate-to-gate for hours, travelers

December 19, 2023
Why frequent flyers should skip the steamy shower post-flight
Sports|WrittenByLAPost

Jaguars President Sets Sights on Accelerating Stadium Rebuild

The Jacksonville Jaguars aim to accelerate plans for a $2 billion renovation of EverBank Stadium, team president Mark Lamping said recently. Originally projected to displace the team from Jacksonville for two seasons starting in 2025, Lamping told the team’s website that efforts are underway to “maybe go from playing away for two years to just one year.”   The proposed renovations, which would transform EverBank into the “Stadium of the Future”, complete with an adjacent entertainment district, have sparked negotiations between the Jaguars and the city of Jacksonville over cost sharing. The team proposes a 50-50 public-private split for the project’s

December 18, 2023
Jaguars President Sets Sights on Accelerating Stadium Rebuild
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Why Rubbing Your Feet Like a Cricket May Help You Sleep

Some people experience blissful slumber simply by rubbing their feet together before bed, and TikTokers can’t stop raving about the soothing sleep technique they call “cricketing.” The practice mimics crickets’ tendency to constantly fidget their legs as a self-calming behavior. And while the motion may appear odd, science and firsthand accounts affirm its incredible power lulling the body into peaceful relaxation ideal for rapid sleep onset. Over 50 million TikTok views extoll cricketing’s virtues through posters demonstrating pre-bedtime foot rubs while praising their effectiveness. “It’s comforting!” one commenter declared. And the mounting buzz even surprised longtime nightly practitioners unaware of

December 18, 2023
Why Rubbing Your Feet Like a Cricket May Help You Sleep
Economy|News|WrittenByLAPost

Crooks Impersonate Biden and Snoop Dogg in Social Security Scam

The latest online swindle captivating TikTok carries an enticing yet unbelievable promise: earn up to $6,400 in no-hassle government assistance, endorsed by none other than President Joe Biden and rap icon Snoop Dogg themselves. But financial experts warn such outlandish free money claims reveal only an elaborate digital fraud in the making, one deploying deep fake celebs to bait seniors already conditioned to pandemic stimulus windfalls. Several misleading videos currently circulate on TikTok and Facebook touting supposed Social Security bonus subsidies accessible through special links. Some feature spliced footage showing Biden alongside Snoop claiming “The U.S. is sending everyone a

December 15, 2023
Crooks Impersonate Biden and Snoop Dogg in Social Security Scam
Environment|Health|WrittenByLAPost

Researchers scour NYC wildlife for next pandemic pathogen clues

A group of scientists in New York set traps for local wildlife, such as possums and raccoons, for months, ranging from Staten Island to Queens. Their goal was not to tag and release the animals but rather to thoroughly examine and swab them for pathogens that could be harmful to humans before the creatures disappeared back into the shadows of the city. Their goal is to shield city people from animal diseases that might be hidden among the furry residents who live off the main road in the large city. The Columbia University researchers aim specifically to trace coronaviruses and

December 15, 2023
Researchers scour NYC wildlife for next pandemic pathogen clues
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Nightmare Tenant Discovery: Drinking Toilet Water for Half a Year

A young couple in Beijing endured a nauseating ordeal after discovering a hidden pipeline had secretly been supplying their kitchen taps with toilet water for over six months. Only upon developing an unshakable cough and strange outbreaks of hair loss did the pair finally trace the source of their deteriorating health back to drinking and cooking with liquid siphoned straight from the latrine. According to boyfriend Mr. Tan, subletting an apartment with his girlfriend earlier this year initially proceeded smoothly until the roommates noticed concerning changes to their wellbeing soon after moving in. His hacking cough worsened while acne and

December 15, 2023
Nightmare Tenant Discovery: Drinking Toilet Water for Half a Year
Food|WrittenByLAPost

U.S. dietary guidelines: shaped by experts or industry interests?

According to a recent study, almost half of the experts who create federal dietary guidelines had questionable financial relationships to large food and medicine companies. This raises concerns about possible undue corporate influence over important nutrition policy. The U.S. Right to Know analysis uncovered nine of twenty appointed experts crafting the nation’s 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recently took money from infant formula brands, pharmaceutical firms, trade groups, and more. One received a six-figure research grant from a top insulin manufacturer specifically to study diabetes and diet. Such corporate relationships inevitably raise suspicions of unconscious bias among advisers analyzing policy

December 15, 2023
U.S. dietary guidelines: shaped by experts or industry interests?
Health|WrittenByLAPost

How Covid-19 Stunted a Generation

The COVID-19 pandemic threw off everyone’s life, but it was especially hard for people in their late 20s and early 30s, as goals and plans were delayed or abandoned due to lockdowns. This sense of falling behind is referred to as a “quarter-life skip” by psychologists. Dubbed the “pandemic skip,” the phenomenon describes a sentiment especially acute among teens, 20-somethings, and 30-somethings – that lockdowns slammed brakes on growing up itself. According to psychologists, this view is based on reality: without those happy events that shape adulthood, important stages of growth would have stayed dormant. “I’m 26 but feel 23,”

December 14, 2023
How Covid-19 Stunted a Generation
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Can Applying Psychology Help Us Accomplish Our New Year's Resolutions?

Resolutions symbolize our desire for self-improvement and the optimism accompanying a new year’s blank slate. These annual pledges aim to enhance lives by changing undesired traits, meeting personal goals, or kicking bad habits. However, ambitions often exceed follow-through. Early excitement yields to obstacles as resolutions crumble by February. Understanding the psychology behind resolutions can reveal why they fail along with science-backed strategies for finally making our promises stick. The alluring idea of reinvention draws us each January 1st. A new calendar encourages reflection while triggering the “fresh start effect” psychologically. As holidays end, we crave departing from stress and excess

December 14, 2023
Can Applying Psychology Help Us Accomplish Our New Year's Resolutions?
Health|WrittenByLAPost

The Dark Side of Going Viral: 'Likes' Push Online Haters to Keep Topping Themselves

New research reveals much online hate speech stems less from malice than hunger for approval, ensuring trolls keep posting to chase “likes” from their bile. Cornell University investigators found users glowing with praise for early toxic posts reliably return with amplified attacks next, hooked on the viral attention rather than targets’ hurt. “It now appears that the same dynamics that can make some online relationships intensely positive can also fuel friendly feelings among those who join together online in expressing enmity toward identity groups and individual targets,” said scholar Joseph Walther of Harvard. Walther argues digital bonds formed through shared

December 14, 2023
The Dark Side of Going Viral: 'Likes' Push Online Haters to Keep Topping Themselves
Business|Technology|WrittenByLAPost

Doritos Invents App to Quiet Crunching

Gaming chip giant Doritos has unveiled a potential breakthrough consumers never knew they needed – AI-powered software enabling silent snacking. Dubbed Doritos Silent, the free app leverages artificial intelligence trained on hundreds of noisy chip crunch recordings to actively cancel out embarrassing eating sounds. Created in partnership with Brooklyn developer Smooth Technology, Doritos Silent specifically targets gamers frequently forced to mute themselves mid-match as culinary indulgence shatters stealth. Now, through simulated sound wave inversion, the program allows bold flavor without awkward audio blowback. “The connection between Doritos fans and the gaming community is undeniable,” said Doritos marketing head Fernando Kahane,

December 14, 2023
Doritos Invents App to Quiet Crunching
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Inmate with schizophrenia dies following extended stint in solitary confinement

A disturbing new lawsuit alleges extended solitary confinement and willful neglect killed a mentally ill county jail inmate after nearly 3 weeks locked naked in a padded cell. Attorneys for Joshua McLemore’s family argue his untreated schizophrenia psychosis kept him from eating or drinking despite guards delivering food, ultimately causing fatal organ failure. According to court filings, police brought the 29-year-old McLemore to emergency services after finding him dazed in his apartment mid-psychotic break in summer 2021. But he soon faced arrest for erratic behavior like pulling a nurse’s hair, then transfer to Jackson County Jail on charges of battery

December 14, 2023
Inmate with schizophrenia dies following extended stint in solitary confinement
Health|WrittenByLAPost

The Culprit Behind Red Wine Headaches

People have complained about headaches specifically from red wine for thousands of years, but science is only now closing in on an explanation for the phenomenon. A new study proposes that an antioxidant found in grape skins hampers the body’s processing of alcohol, allowing buildup of a toxic compound that triggers migraines in susceptible drinkers. While all alcoholic beverages can cause headaches, red wine appears particularly linked to painful “wine headaches” arising shortly after a glass rather than next-morning hangover. Researchers have puzzlingly struggled to account for why despite red wine containing many ingredients also found in other foods not

December 13, 2023
The Culprit Behind Red Wine Headaches
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Traumatic memories continue to torment PTSD patients- here's why

A new brain imaging study shows that traumatic memories use different neural paths than normal memories. This shows that they work as vivid pieces of a current event rather than processed past memories. Findings from the study help us understand how traumatic memories stay with us for a long time. They shed light on why they keep coming back as flashbacks and night terrors, which are common symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Study co-author Daniela Schiller from Mount Sinai’s Icahn School of Medicine remarked, “The brain doesn’t appear to be in a state of memory; rather, it seems to

December 13, 2023
Traumatic memories continue to torment PTSD patients- here's why
Economy|WrittenByLAPost

America's Most Popular Rifle: The Cultural Rise of the AR-15

The popularity of the AR-15 rifle has skyrocketed in recent years, becoming a common household item for gun enthusiasts even as it remains intertwined with political divisions and mass shootings. Once created for military applications in the late 1950s, around 20 million AR-15-style rifles now circulate across the United States.  A World War II veteran, Eugene Stoner led the original design team that developed the AR-15 as a lightweight and durable combat rifle using a new .223 caliber cartridge. Initial skepticism from gun makers stalled plans for a semi-automatic civilian version until manufacturers recognized emerging market demand in the years

December 13, 2023
America's Most Popular Rifle: The Cultural Rise of the AR-15
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Self-Googling for Disorders Harms Teen Wellness, Experts Warn

Erin Coleman grew alarmed as her 14-year-old daughter increasingly used TikTok and Instagram not for entertainment or memes but to search for videos about mental health conditions. Over months of scrolling, the teen became convinced social media clips matched her own struggles and she likely had depression, ADHD, autism, extreme germophobia, and more. “Each week, she would come up with another diagnosis,” Coleman recalled. “If she perceives any resemblance between herself and someone else, she believes she possesses the same qualities.” Ultimately medical testing revealed Coleman’s daughter suffered mainly from severe anxiety rather than the entire catalogue. “Even now, she

December 13, 2023
Self-Googling for Disorders Harms Teen Wellness, Experts Warn
Economy|News|WrittenByLAPost

Holiday Shoppers Beware: Gift Card Fraud Scheme Goes Nationwide

Law enforcement agencies across the country are sounding the alarm about a dangerous form of gift card fraud known as “card draining” this holiday season. Authorities report busting what they describe as a highly sophisticated scheme just this month to steal funds off gift cards before recipients can spend them. The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office in California arrested a man caught tampering with thousands of gift cards last week. Detectives had observed Ningning Sun acting suspiciously in the payment aisles of a Target store before confronting him trying to exit with over 5,000 gift cards lifted from Target and Apple.

December 13, 2023
Holiday Shoppers Beware: Gift Card Fraud Scheme Goes Nationwide
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Tis the Season...For Cuffing?

With winter here and thoughts of cuddling up by a warm fire starting to circulate, many are wondering if it’s wise to commit while still navigating the ups and downs of college life. Although bonds can ease fears of the future and strengthen everyday communities, some bonds made in the midst of scholastic stress and loneliness may not be beneficial to development in the long run. When one’s job, priorities, and sense of self undergo continuous transformations until maturity takes its ultimate shape, it becomes imperative to regularly assess one’s relationships to ensure their well-being.. Making the most of limited

December 12, 2023
Tis the Season...For Cuffing?
Health|WrittenByLAPost

The science of bathing: Why more isn't always better

While survey data suggests 60% of Americans believe daily showers are essential, but experts say that there is no magic bullet when it comes to personal hygiene; rather, the appropriate number of baths each week is contingent on a wide range of individual health variables. No matter what, scientific knowledge about the when why, and how of lathering can help us understand our different skin types better. Those exercising heavily or prone to abundant perspiration should certainly wash away accumulating sweat regularly. Letting pores clog risks breakouts and infections, while scalp oils similarly merit shampooing too for some prone to

December 12, 2023
The science of bathing: Why more isn't always better
Health|Economy|WrittenByLAPost

Can You Really Test For Your "Trigger Foods"? The Controversy Explained

Millions seeking digestive relief turn to diagnostic kits promising personalized answers on triggering foods. However, experts argue evidence doesn’t support home sensitivity tests flooding the alternative wellness market and making big claims on customized health insights. Behind marketing suggesting custom diets curing bloating and discomfort lurk problematic science and potential harms meriting caution before buying. Mainstream medicine makes limited distinctions around adverse food reactions beyond clear-cut allergies and intolerances like lactose or gluten. Still, companies sell hair mineral scans or blood antibody screens purportedly unveiling specific inflammatory triggers. These expensive, unreliable results often severely restrict diets without clinical basis. Seeking

December 12, 2023
Can You Really Test For Your "Trigger Foods"? The Controversy Explained
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Christmas Trees Can Trigger Miserable “Holiday Syndrome”

Decking halls with boughs of holly and twinkling trees spreads yuletide cheer for many holiday celebrants. But amid the backdrop of nostalgic decor emerges a seasonal syndrome sabotaging merriment for some. Invisible allergens riding evergreens trigger classic respiratory and skin symptoms creating “Christmas tree syndrome” – the sad fate of developing runny noses, coughs or rashes instead of cozy comfort from the symbolic centerpiece. Culprits range from specific pollen species to generic irritants like mold, dust and pesticides. Real varieties pose more concerns with natural volatile oils and shedding pine needles. But cheap synthetic trees harbor other hazards after years

December 12, 2023
Christmas Trees Can Trigger Miserable “Holiday Syndrome”
Economy|Health|WrittenByLAPost

Exhausted Air Traffic Controllers Raise Alarm on Safety Risks

A nationwide air traffic controller shortage has forced intensely demanding schedules and deteriorating working conditions, fueling a dangerous increase in mistakes guiding planes. Fatigued and demoralized, some controllers report nodding off during shifts while others show up drunk – alarming violations jeopardizing passenger safety. Hundreds of incident reports describe distraught employees struggling with impossible overtime burdens amid understaffing crisis levels. Controllers manage unfathomable stress directing thousands of lives daily. But current excessive strains break even the most dedicated. While recent years saw traffic rebound from the pandemic, controller numbers significantly declined over the past decade despite elevated retirements requiring replacement.

December 12, 2023
Exhausted Air Traffic Controllers Raise Alarm on Safety Risks
Health|WrittenByLAPost

What really causes sore muscles after exercise?

The dreaded soreness that follows a workout often seems like just part of the process as your body gets stronger. But what actually causes sore, strained muscles days after a tough workout? And do things like massage guns or hot tubs actually help you recover faster, as everyone claims? New research explains why our muscles protest so much in the first place. It turns out it might not be lactic acid or tiny tears in muscle fibers causing the hurt, as experts used to think. And the common fixes people swear by may just provide temporary relief without addressing the

December 07, 2023
What really causes sore muscles after exercise?
Technology|WrittenByLAPost

When YouTube's AI Labels Your 7-Year-Old a Predator

When Jennifer Watkins‘ 7-year-old son uploaded a silly “nudie” video dare from a classmate to the family’s shared YouTube account, the Australian mother never imagined a catastrophic fallout ending her decade-long digital access. Yet within minutes, Google permanently deleted Watkins’ account with zero appeals, locking treasured memories behind supposed child safety imperatives. As digital life increasingly interconnects personal, professional, and family spheres, mistaken account terminations create collateral damage, wrecking entire household ecosystems. Critics argue for proportional responses aligned with nuanced contexts instead of automated blanket bans mismatched to incidental infractions. When Google abruptly notified Watkins of deleted YouTube access she

December 06, 2023
When YouTube's AI Labels Your 7-Year-Old a Predator
Economy|News|World|WrittenByLAPost

Census Reveals Striking 85% Surge in Native American Population

The Native American population in the United States has seen a remarkable growth rate of 85% in the last decade. The U.S. Census data report shows a spike from 5.2 million in 2010 to 9.6 million in 2020. This striking increase in the Native American population, surpassing the growth rates of other racial groups, has left experts perplexed as they struggle to attribute the surge solely to immigration or elevated birth rates. After a more thorough examination, census officials and scholars have proposed a theory suggesting that significant alterations in the categorization and counting of race data during the 2020

December 06, 2023
Census Reveals Striking 85% Surge in Native American Population
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Can an Open Marriage Bring Couples Closer?

When Sheila first suggested to her husband Jim that they go to an event for monogamous couples, he reluctantly agreed, hoping that she could enjoy her sense of adventure. But neither of them expected the strong desire to explore even further after becoming friends with another nice couple there. As middle-aged parents of two teenage children stuck in an affectionless rut, Jim and Sheila saw their family-oriented responsibilities were slowly suffocating the carefree pair who had met in a bar almost 20 years ago. Because they wanted to get away, they went to a polyamorous retreat that promised “sexy fun.”

December 06, 2023
Can an Open Marriage Bring Couples Closer?
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Herbal Mood Supplements - Are they Helpful or Hurtful?

A walk down any health store aisle will show you shelves full of supplement bottles that are calling to people who are stressed out or sad. Labels that look good say that herbs, oils, vitamins, and nutrients will help you deal with life’s mental storms. But can a pill really make you feel better or calm your worries down? Experts say that there is little to no evidence to back popular supplements for anxiety and depression, despite what marketers say. While some natural options like St. John’s wort show glimmers of potential benefit, data quality and clinical impact lag far

December 06, 2023
Herbal Mood Supplements - Are they Helpful or Hurtful?
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Can Ice Plunges Sooth Anxiety and Depression? Watch the Video

A growing wellness trend touts icy plunges as self-treatment for anxiety, depression and other mental health woes. From TikTok’s #ColdPlunge community to Netflix documentaries on extreme athlete Wim Hof’s frigid endurance challenges, the notion of therapeutic benefits from voluntarily induced hypothermia proliferates in pop culture. And while evidence remains limited and risks plentiful, some preliminary research does suggest cold water immersion may improve certain markers of mood and resilience. Proponents claim subjecting the body to freezing temperatures counterintuitively promotes relaxation and calm after the initial shock. The hypothesis makes physiologic sense – activating the stress response stimulates release of hormones

December 06, 2023
Can Ice Plunges Sooth Anxiety and Depression? Watch the Video
Technology|WrittenByLAPost

Your iPhone Keyboard Could Be Quietly Betraying Your Private Data

A chilling new cyberattack allowing hackers to spy on iPhone users’ most sensitive information has security experts sounding the alarm. By weaponizing iOS’s third-party custom keyboards to serve as keyloggers, hackers can now covertly monitor every tap and swipe unsuspecting victims make, transmitting back data on private messages, passwords, web activity, and more. Investigations by security firm Certo Software uncovered these invasive iPhone keyboard hacks in action after helping multiple victims of digital stalking. Their findings reveal a clever technique to bypass Apple’s normally rigorous security protections on its devices. Through a multi-stage approach, hackers remotely installed malicious non-Apple keyboards

December 05, 2023
Your iPhone Keyboard Could Be Quietly Betraying Your Private Data
Lifestyle|WrittenByLAPost

Is 'Boyfriend Air' a Drain on Your Self-Care?

Women on TikTok are talking about a new idea called “boyfriend air,” which means that dating someone can somehow make you look worse. The trend has become so popular that more than 225 million people have watched videos with the term #boyfriendair. The premise is that after spending time with a boyfriend, a woman may notice her skin breaking out, her hair feeling oilier, or her makeup seeming not to stay on as well. It’s as if “her boyfriend is changing the air around her or somehow influencing her environment,” explains psychology professor Maryanne Fisher. While no clear scientific explanation

December 05, 2023
Is 'Boyfriend Air' a Drain on Your Self-Care?
Health|WrittenByLAPost

TikTok’s Sweet Anxiety Hack: How Sour Candy May Short-Circuit Panic. Watch the Video.

If you’re having a panic attack, TikTokers say sour candy may help calm your nerves. This advice seems to have some scientific backing, with mental health experts confirming that sour candies like Warheads can serve as an effective distraction during moments of high anxiety. When anxiety begins to spike and panic sets in, eating an intensely tart candy can offer “faster relief” by giving the brain something else more immediate to focus on, says therapist Catherine Del Toro. This redirects the brain’s attention away from the anxiety, providing a brief respite in which symptoms can subside. The key seems to

December 05, 2023
TikTok’s Sweet Anxiety Hack: How Sour Candy May Short-Circuit Panic. Watch the Video.
Technology|WrittenByLAPost

The New LMAO? Why "Ijbol" Has Gone Viral

A peculiar new online slang has entered the chat – “ijbol.” While it may look like an obscure foreign word, ijbol is actually just an acronym that stands for “I just burst out laughing” in English. And despite existing since the late 2000s, ijbol is having a viral resurgence in 2022 among Gen Z social media users. After first gaining traction in niche online circles and K-pop fandoms last year, tweets and TikToks using ijbol have now exploded more mainstream. Yet ijbol’s cryptic appearance continues sparking confusion – and hilarity – among internet users trying to decipher its definition. The

December 05, 2023
The New LMAO? Why "Ijbol" Has Gone Viral
Travel|WrittenByLAPost

Luggage Tracking Devices Fail to Recover Majority of Lost Bags

Over 300,000 bags were mishandled by U.S. airlines in early 2023, a figure sadly on par with years prior, according to airline data. Security experts say that gadgets like AirTags give travelers false confidence once their bags go missing, even though they are meant to give passengers peace of mind. And companies that don’t care add to their problems. “Even the most advanced technologies are not foolproof,” said California-based travel safety expert Mike Millerson. “There’s no substitute for smart planning and common sense when preventing luggage loss.” The core failing lies in how savvy thieves readily identify and then remove

December 04, 2023
Luggage Tracking Devices Fail to Recover Majority of Lost Bags
World|Entertainment|Travel|WrittenByLAPost

Passenger Exits Plane Through Emergency Exit. Watch the Video.

A Southwest Airlines passenger who was reportedly experiencing a mental health crisis departed the plane last Sunday using the emergency exit at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. Staff members apprehended the 38-year-old guy after he jumped from the wing at about 8pm. The shocking event happened while Flight 1525 waited at the gate, just before it was supposed to take off for Atlanta. A passenger “utilized an emergency exit door to exit a plane,” according to the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, which prompted airport police to hurry to the scene. The guy appeared confused and lost when he was

December 04, 2023
Passenger Exits Plane Through Emergency Exit. Watch the Video.
Health|News|WrittenByLAPost

Botched Cosmetic Injection Leaves Woman Without Nose

Krysta Carson had been getting Botox injections without issue for 20 years leading up to the cosmetic procedure that would abruptly end that streak. The 52-year-old singer and model from Seattle opted for filler injections in 2015 seeking to restore a more youthful appearance after one too many people mistook her for looking significantly older. But what began as a routine cosmetic treatment to smooth developing laugh lines rapidly morphed into a nightmare ordeal culminating in necrosis so severe her nose fully detached. Now after 200 reconstructive surgeries, Carson still requires a prosthetic nose to breathe. She continues sharing her

December 01, 2023
Botched Cosmetic Injection Leaves Woman Without Nose
Food|WrittenByLAPost

This Potato Prep Trick Just Blew Up The Internet

A clever potato skinning trick demonstrated in a viral TikTok video has home cooks astounded over its game-changing simplicity. In the clip that’s drawn 22 million views, user @quitmyjob reveals an astonishingly easy method to strip potato skins using only your hands after boiling. The process begins by cutting a slit midway around raw potatoes before dropping them in boiling water. Once cooked, grip the slice, and the taut skin peels right off without needing a peeler at all. Fans call it a “life hack” that should be common knowledge by now for basic vegetable prep. But based on the

December 01, 2023
This Potato Prep Trick Just Blew Up The Internet
Health|WrittenByLAPost

40% Suicide Spike- LA's Teen Mental Health Crisis

For the first time, the typical age of teen suicide in Los Angeles County has dropped to just 16 years old. This was the shocking news. Also, the number of girls who kill themselves has gone up to almost half of all student deaths this school year. These alarming figures from county medical examiners expose a youth mental health crisis worsening despite years of prevention efforts. Now, families who have lost a loved one say that strict school rules that are supposed to keep kids safe may be making teens even more depressed after the pandemic. When 17-year-old Jeramie Naya

December 01, 2023
40% Suicide Spike- LA's Teen Mental Health Crisis
World|Local|News|WrittenByLAPost

Mother Faced With Daughter's Decaying Remains After Death in LA County Jail

When police officers arrived at Melinda Bettencourt’s door one morning last fall, she instantly feared the worst before they even spoke. Her youngest daughter, Amanda Bews, had battled addiction and homelessness for years after developing a painful nerve condition. With Amanda estranged and struggling on the streets, news from law enforcement felt ominous from the start. Bettencourt’s dread proved tragically founded: Bews had been arrested in Los Angeles County days earlier and died in custody at age 29. But neither the officers nor officials in the ensuing weeks offered Bettencourt answers about what happened. And what she eventually saw for

November 30, 2023
Mother Faced With Daughter's Decaying Remains After Death in LA County Jail
News|WrittenByLAPost

Father Accused of Trafficking Own Daughter's Nude Photos, Pocketing Six Figures

A father in California’s Central Valley was taken into custody over accusations that for months he allowed his 16-year-old daughter to sell nude photos online, capping a three-month investigation by the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office. To protect the minor’s identity, officials chose not to identify the guy who was detained on November 15th. He faces accusations including child abuse, contributing to a kid’s delinquency, and criminal sex trafficking. The El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office had not originally targeted the father when its investigation began in August, instead focusing on the “very well known online presence” the teenager maintained across

November 30, 2023
Father Accused of Trafficking Own Daughter's Nude Photos, Pocketing Six Figures
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Necrophilia Nightmare: Electrician Violated Over 100 Corpses for 15 Years While Hospital Management Failed to Notice

A damning 300-page British inquiry report reveals that electrician David Fuller’s unfathomable 15-year spree violating over 100 corpses could have been prevented. Fuller ultimately faced conviction for 1987 double homicide cold cases, prompting discovery of his mortuary necrophiliac acts. However, the inquiry condemned systemic “failures of management, governance, regulation and processes” enabling his crimes. Authorities uncovered Fuller’s acts after tying DNA from decades-old murder scenes to the 69-year-old electrician. This launched inquiries into mortuary breaches at two Kent hospitals where Fuller worked. Investigators subsequently unearthed over 10 million disturbing media files within the killer’s residence. Among these were timestamped photos

November 30, 2023
Necrophilia Nightmare: Electrician Violated Over 100 Corpses for 15 Years While Hospital Management Failed to Notice
Economy|WrittenByLAPost

Beware of Fake Delivery Updates This Season - Verify Before You Click

The holiday season brings joyful gatherings with loved ones, but also prime opportunities for scammers seeking quick paydays through online theft. Many fraudsters gain initial access by exploiting commonly reused passwords across multiple accounts, warns Chris Maxwell, a former Nigerian cybercriminal. “Once you access passwords, you access social security numbers, driver’s licenses, credit cards, bank accounts. It’s very easy to do damage with that information,” Maxwell described. Unsecured passwords represent the gateway for fraudsters to financially bleed victims dry. A record $10.3 billion drained from Americans through online scams last year, Federal-2022 Trade Commission data shows. Louisiana saw 4,335 victims

November 30, 2023
Beware of Fake Delivery Updates This Season - Verify Before You Click
Health|WrittenByLAPost

The Risks of Letting Dogs Lick Your Face and Sleep in Your Bed

As man’s best friend, dogs enrich our lives in countless ways – easing anxiety, reducing loneliness, spurring physical activity, and even potentially lowering cardiovascular disease. However, these beloved pets can also transmit illness-causing germs to humans through bites, scratches, face licks, or accidental ingestion of feces. Thankfully, simple precautions can greatly mitigate sickness risks for people snuggling up to their furry companions. Veterinarians caution that dogs harbor diverse bacteria, parasites, and fungi transmissible to humans – including salmonella, E. coli, campylobacter, giardia, cryptosporidium, hookworm, and roundworm. These can spark gastrointestinal troubles like diarrhea or abdominal pain. Dogs may also spread

November 30, 2023
The Risks of Letting Dogs Lick Your Face and Sleep in Your Bed
Entertainment|WrittenByLAPost

Tinder Date Ends With Man Stealing $1000 Shoes

A Lower East Side woman revealed how her Tinder date stole her designer shoes from her apartment to gift his girlfriend. As dishonesty and technology continue to blend, cases like the “Tabi Swiper” demonstrate how dating applications are deteriorating. The woman identified publicly as Elaine Wu, recounted her experience in a rapid-fire TikTok series drawing millions of fascinating views. The 30-something fashion professional explained matching online with an attractive stranger who suggested drinks. They later returned to her apartment only to have security footage showing the man brazenly smuggling a box under his shirt when departing. Ms. Wu then launched

November 29, 2023
Tinder Date Ends With Man Stealing $1000 Shoes
Health|WrittenByLAPost

More Than Manicures: Inside Acrylic Manicures' Infection Risk

The trendy acrylic nail extensions glamming up hands from coast to coast bring an unsightly downside – the terrifying possibility of chronic green nail infections. Some technicians allegedly do a poor job of applying the product, which allows bacteria to enter via the press-on plastic tips and causes a visible fungus that is very difficult to remove. Los Angeles dermatologist Dr. Sermed Mezher urgently highlighted the phenomenon on TikTok after treating numerous cases of the “beautician’s nightmare” condition nicknamed “The Greenies.” His video and warnings detail how the causative microbe thrives inside moisture trapped under cheap fill acrylic bonds slightly

November 29, 2023
More Than Manicures: Inside Acrylic Manicures' Infection Risk
Entertainment|WrittenByLAPost

Duped by Dinner- How One Girl Got Catfished by an East Village Eatery

Taylor Paré entered the small East Village restaurant, expecting to meet the handsome suitor she had matched with on a popular dating app. After primping all evening before the highly-anticipated date night, Ms. Paré arrived eager to see if this digital match could transfer into real-world chemistry. But following 15 minutes alone at the table checking her phone, it became clear she had been stood up. Or so it seemed. The man had suddenly unmatched her on the dating app as she waited. Suspicions arose about the restaurant’s possible involvement when Ms. Paré later saw other women report similar experiences

November 29, 2023
Duped by Dinner- How One Girl Got Catfished by an East Village Eatery
Science|WrittenByLAPost

More Awake Than Expected: Surprising Awareness Found in Sedated Patients

Going under anesthesia feels like instantly plunging into darkness, right? New Australian research suggests otherwise—finding 1 in 10 younger surgical patients briefly hover at more of a dimmer switch level. Scientists discovered a significant portion of 18-40-year-olds remain responsive despite sedative IV drips supposedly inducing foolproof unconsciousness. Startlingly, the phenomenon showed higher in women subjects monitored during routine preparatory phases. They reacted to verbal commands from doctors far more than expected before amnesia set in from subsequent anesthetic stages. The study indicates wider problems of “connected consciousness” where patients hover reactively inside supposed oblivion states. The research uncovers an awareness

November 28, 2023
More Awake Than Expected: Surprising Awareness Found in Sedated Patients
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Here's Why Your Cold Seems More Severe After Bedtime

If your cold or cough seems worse at night, science confirms it’s not your imagination. Physicians identify biological rhythms, hormone fluctuations and body positioning as key factors aggravating overnight symptoms. Simple home remedies like hydration, humidifying and cough drops can ease disruption, but understanding the body’s natural circadian cough cycle helps normalize the experience. Tuning into the outsized reaction at one point of the daily clock offers reassurance while combatting its severity. Specifically, our inner sleep/wake programming directs key immune cells to rev up activity after dark seeking pathogens. But their well-intended efforts also spark inflammation temporarily compounding congestion, irritation

November 28, 2023
Here's Why Your Cold Seems More Severe After Bedtime
Food|WrittenByLAPost

Baby Carrots Aren't What They Seem – The Disturbing Truth

The shelves in supermarkets are just a trick. One vocal blogger says the tiny doppelgangers are just made from poor, full-grown rejects so that many of them are the same and are only two inches long. This system might make results more efficient by automating the peeling, cutting, and polishing processes. That being said, the blogger says the finished goods don’t have complicated flavors, waste resources, cost too much, and spread false ideas about how great they are through dishonest advertising that makes health halos. In fact, most tiny vegetables that look like carrots are really just picked baby root

November 28, 2023
Baby Carrots Aren't What They Seem – The Disturbing Truth
Environment|WrittenByLAPost

Explorer Finds 16-Foot Shark Haunting Empty Exhibit. Watch the Video.

Over ten years ago, an Australian wildlife park with special features such as a large preserved great white shark suddenly shut down, leaving numerous animals withering behind locked gates. However, just recently, Luke McPherson entered the deserted building and posted impressive and disturbing pictures of its eerie insides. The most noticeable feature is the 16-foot-long preserved shark named Rosie, which is still floating completely intact in a tank of chemicals. The tank’s broken glass no longer entirely covers her dried-out carcass. The tale began in 1998 with Rosie’s accidental capture in South Australian tuna nets, likely spurring her unnatural death.

November 27, 2023
Explorer Finds 16-Foot Shark Haunting Empty Exhibit. Watch the Video.
Food|WrittenByLAPost

The Truth About Your Daily Coffee Limits

While offering an array of potential wellness benefits, America’s beloved coffee habit also carries side effects from overdoing caffeine consumption. Experts say most adults can safely drink up to 4 cups daily, or 400 milligrams, but our bodies process the stimulant differently based on genetics and lifestyle. Understanding your limits and how speedily you metabolize caffeine helps strike balance between coffee’s pros and cons. Tracking physical cues makes recognizing excess straightforward for those willing to tune into their own rhythms. Specifically, the average person clears about half a caffeine dose every four to ten hours, with quick metabolizers avoiding later

November 27, 2023
The Truth About Your Daily Coffee Limits
Economy|Food|WrittenByLAPost

Who's Really Behind Our Diet Advice? Study Questions Integrity of Diet Rules

Concerns about industrial influence on official dietary guidelines aimed at preserving public health were heightened this week by a watchdog study. Nearly half of the present members of the guideline committee guiding major food policy have substantial business conflicts, according to the report. It expands on previous claims that the apparent impartial scientific advice supporting critical food changes in the United States is, in fact, heavily influenced by deep-seated personal connections.  The revelations stoke fears that faith in a broken system further erodes absent addressing why government nutrition policy repeatedly skews towards big food interests over wellbeing. Specifically the nonprofit

November 27, 2023
Who's Really Behind Our Diet Advice? Study Questions Integrity of Diet Rules
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Unsupervised Ketamine Use for Depression Raises FDA Concerns

The FDA warned against clinicians prescribing compounded formulations of ketamine absent careful monitoring, citing harms from the anesthetic’s growing unsupervised use as an alternative depression remedy. Citing adverse event reports, regulators targeted exploitative telehealth and direct-to-consumer providers, feeding surging patient demand for psychedelic therapy, showing promise in stubborn mental illness. But nuances separating legitimate supervised protocols from dangerous DIY usage fuel debates on avoiding over-correction given ketamine’s steadfast restrictions limiting medical access. Specifically the agency alert aims distinguishing between supervised ketamine injections administered in clinics from uncontrolled usage filling online prescriptions remotely. Its caution calls out compounding pharmacies specially mixing

November 27, 2023
Unsupervised Ketamine Use for Depression Raises FDA Concerns
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Is 98.6 No Longer Normal Body Temperature?

Modern evidence increasingly challenges long-accepted baselines about “normal” human body temperature established over 150 years ago. Recent studies of large populations find average readings substantially lower than the near-universal 98.6 Fahrenheit etched into medical lore. That leaves unsettled debates around properly identifying fevers amid shifting data that both reveals we run cooler today and highlights natural individual variations. With core measures declining below standardized cutoffs, some propose personalizing fever benchmarks while others argue widening diagnosis criteria risks overlooking serious infection. The new normal results prime modern medicine to revisit physiological assumptions rooted in a different era. In the late 1860s,

November 27, 2023
Is 98.6 No Longer Normal Body Temperature?
Uncategorized|WrittenByLAPost

TikTok Creators Join Forces with Harvard Researchers

This year Harvard researchers undertook an unusual collaboration bringing ivory tower expertise together with mass influencers dispensing mental health advice to millions via social media. Their goal: inject more scientifically validated content into TikTok and Instagram feeds increasingly relied on by youth. Selecting subjects with large followings and ethical approaches, the team provided toolkits on issues like trauma and climate anxiety to observe if credible data permeated popular post trends. Despite inhering skepticism over digital health content, results showed modest uptake – along with forging bonds between academia and creators potentially benefiting both. Specifically, a group from Harvard Medical School

November 27, 2023
TikTok Creators Join Forces with Harvard Researchers
Health|WrittenByLAPost

FDA Bans Cancer-Causing Straighteners

This week the FDA proposed banning hair straighteners containing formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, targeting products marketed mainly for Black women despite over a decade of evidence on cancer risks. The agency determined frequent chemical straightener use significantly elevates uterine cancer chances, with toxicity also linked to breast and ovarian malignancies. But though the FDA itself deemed formaldehyde carcinogenic in 2015, only mounting publicity and Congressional regulation recently prompted concrete plans to halt allowable exposure from cosmetics. Specifically, the agency now moves to outlaw hair products emitting formaldehyde directly or through release from compounds that convert to the chemical through air

November 27, 2023
FDA Bans Cancer-Causing Straighteners
Economy|WrittenByLAPost

Is Facebook Addiction Real? Lawsuit Accuses Meta of Hooking Kids on Social Media

A coalition of states filed a lawsuit accusing Meta’s Facebook and Instagram of deliberately addicting children to social media through manipulative features maximizing engagement time. The complaint alleges the company knowingly exploited powerful algorithms and design techniques to compel underage users into obsessive platform habits despite recognizing inherent risks. It spotlights deeper unresolved debates around technology overuse constituting genuine addiction – and raises questions on parental, corporate and regulatory responsibilities in an increasingly wired landscape. Specifically, 41 states and Washington, D.C. jointly sued Meta in federal court, contending the social media giant “ensnared” young consumers for profit through unethical psychological

November 27, 2023
Is Facebook Addiction Real? Lawsuit Accuses Meta of Hooking Kids on Social Media
Entertainment|WrittenByLAPost

Mariah Carey Sued Again: Did She Steal That Christmas Song?

Mariah Carey faces another lawsuit alleging she stole her defining Christmas pop hit “All I Want for Christmas Is You” from a decades-old country song bearing the same unique title. Songwriter Andy Stone, who performs as Vince Vance, filed a complaint in Los Angeles claiming his 1989 Yuletide release predates Carey’s blockbuster. It marks the second attempt by Stone to legally dispute the smash single’s origins through accusations of copyright infringement. The latest lawsuit demands $20 million in damages while spotlighting the legal gray areas around proving musical inspiration versus theft in court. According to the suit, Stone’s band Vince

November 22, 2023
Mariah Carey Sued Again: Did She Steal That Christmas Song?
Travel|WrittenByLAPost

Raging Passenger Duct-Taped After Groping Allegations

A 22-year-old’s extreme mid-flight meltdown recently gained international attention thanks to viral videos showing the consequences of his unruly behavior – namely, getting duct-taped to a seat by frustrated flight attendants. Maxwell Berry now faces assault charges after apparent intoxication sparked harassing and violent acts towards crew and passengers. The severe incident spotlights ongoing issues of passenger misconduct in the air, especially abuse targeting airline staff enforcing safety rules. It further raises questions on appropriate restraining methods when verbal de-escalation fails with severely disruptive travelers. According to accounts, Berry’s outburst occurred aboard a Frontier Airlines flight last August. Having already

November 22, 2023
Raging Passenger Duct-Taped After Groping Allegations
World|Environment|WrittenByLAPost

Scientists Unleash Millions of Mosquitoes to Block Disease

In an ambitious global experiment, scientists are unleashing millions of engineered mosquitoes carrying virus-blocking bacteria upon dense urban landscapes as an ecological solution to infectious diseases transmitted by the insects’ bites. Initial trials suppressing dengue spread by up to 80 percent bolster hopes of harnessing evolution to vanquish humankind’s most lethal animal foe, responsible for nearly a million annual deaths. But realizing lasting impacts across continents presents daunting financial and logistical hurdles. At dedicated factories in Colombia, technicians mass-produce Aedes aegypti mosquitoes infected with the Wolbachia parasite, which largely prevents transmission of viruses like dengue. The ambitious aim: completely replace

November 21, 2023
Scientists Unleash Millions of Mosquitoes to Block Disease
Health|News|WrittenByLAPost

Woman Discovers Live Spider and Shed Exoskeleton in Ear Canal. Watch the Video.

A 64-year-old woman in Taiwan was disturbed from sleep for several nights by strange noises and sensations in her left ear, only to discover the startling source – a live spider and its shed exoskeleton dwelling inside her ear canal. Documented in a recent case study in the New England Journal of Medicine, the arachnid intruder measured just 2-3 millimeters, or around 1/10 inch. But its movements and activity generated disturbing sounds described as “abnormal beating, clicking and rustling.” Beyond disrupted sleep, the woman reported feeling a “creature moving” inside her ear over several days. The sensations prompted her to

November 21, 2023
Woman Discovers Live Spider and Shed Exoskeleton in Ear Canal. Watch the Video.
Health|Environment|WrittenByLAPost

Dog Owners Warned As Mystery Respiratory Disease Emerges

Veterinarians across multiple states are investigating an unusual respiratory illness spreading among dogs that resists antibiotics and can lead to pneumonia. First detected a few months ago, over 200 cases have now emerged in Oregon, with additional reports from Colorado, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Hampshire and potentially Illinois. Experts remain unsure of the exact cause but describe the disease as a likely viral infection passed through close contact, resulting in coughing, discharge and lethargy. While researchers characterize the outbreak more as a chronic nuisance than major threat, they advise vigilance and caution from owners as they work to pinpoint the

November 21, 2023
Dog Owners Warned As Mystery Respiratory Disease Emerges
Entertainment|WrittenByLAPost

Have Barbie and Dorothy Been Separated at Birth? See the Startling Proof

Little has emerged about the plot of Greta Gerwig’s highly anticipated “Barbie” film, sparking fans to advance their own theories based on trailers and casting news. Margot Robbie plays the Mattel icon in her first live-action film, joined by Ryan Gosling as Ken and a star-packed ensemble. With the comedy arriving July 21st, a recent preview offered clues towards a “Wizard of Oz” parallel storyline. Multiple TikTok users spotted possible homages in costumes, set designs and motifs. If correct, Robbie’s Barbie could embark on a self-discovery journey not unlike Dorothy’s Technicolor trip from Kansas to Oz. April’s second trailer shows

November 21, 2023
Have Barbie and Dorothy Been Separated at Birth? See the Startling Proof
Food|WrittenByLAPost

Deep Frying: The Best Thing That Ever Happened to Turkey

As interest grows in over-the-top culinary concoctions, one author eschews modern gimmicks while embracing a classic: deep-fried turkey. Though frying a whole bird may seem a stunt itself, when done properly the technique beautifully crisps the skin while keeping the meat remarkably moist. The dish has become a new tradition across the American South. Deep-frying a turkey produces the best bird this author has ever tasted. The high heat of the peanut oil seals in turkey juices while imparting crackling skin and rich, crispy flavor even into the meat. While stunt dishes like gold-leaf steak or wine with snakes hold

November 21, 2023
Deep Frying: The Best Thing That Ever Happened to Turkey
World|WrittenByLAPost

Victim or Villain? An American Mom's ISIS Story

In a disturbing video, a young American boy wanders through ISIS territory wearing a suicide vest. This chilling footage launched journalist Josh Baker on an investigation that revealed the boy’s identity and his family’s harrowing path into the terrorist group’s inner circle. It became a journey that exposed difficult truths about coercion versus complicity in one mother’s story. Investigative reporter Josh Baker first encountered the video through an anonymous contact in 2019. Alarmed by the sight of a child outfitted for a suicide bombing, Baker traveled from London to the boy’s aunt in Indiana. She identified him as 10-year-old Matthew

November 20, 2023
Victim or Villain? An American Mom's ISIS Story
Food|WrittenByLAPost

Orzo Carbonara: A Faster Route to Creamy Comfort Without the Fuss

Carbonara purists fiercely guard what’s considered “authentic” – no cream, ham, or Parmesan allowed. But what if a small tweak to the iconic Roman pasta dish both streamlined the process and opened the door to new flavors? Using orzo instead of spaghetti transforms carbonara into a faster, foolproof meal. The Italian carbonara police have strong opinions on ingredients. But as journalist Roberto Serrini notes, carbonara evolves with the times. In the 1960s, a splash of cognac was common. Today, guanciale, pecorino cheese, eggs, and black pepper define the dish. While tradition offers comfort, orzo provides a fresh take. In Italy,

November 20, 2023
Orzo Carbonara: A Faster Route to Creamy Comfort Without the Fuss
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Running vs. Walking: Study Finds Picking Up The Pace Adds Health Benefits

Walking is rightfully lauded as an accessible, enjoyable activity with proven health benefits. But science shows that making even part of your regular walk a jog or run delivers advantages in less time. While both provide a path to fitness, running edges out walking for improving cardiovascular health and longevity based on key research. With a thoughtful progression, it’s possible to transition gradually from walking to running within two months or less. It’s simple why walking is so popular worldwide – it requires no equipment except shoes and can be done almost anywhere. Studies confirm walking helps lower anxiety, depression,

November 20, 2023
Running vs. Walking: Study Finds Picking Up The Pace Adds Health Benefits
World|WrittenByLAPost

Netflix Family Awarded $261 Million After Medical Nightmare

In a controversial ruling, the Supreme Court on Monday refused to consider the appeal of an Illinois inmate who has been kept in isolation and denied outside recreation for nearly three years. The court’s brief order rejecting the case gave no rationale, as is customary. But three dissenting liberal justices penned a forceful rebuttal, decrying the appalling mistreatment suffered by inmate Michael Johnson. Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, joined by Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan, described the harrowing conditions imposed on Johnson at Pontiac Correctional Center. “Throughout that period, Johnson spent almost every hour of his life in a cell

November 20, 2023
Netflix Family Awarded $261 Million After Medical Nightmare
Technology|WrittenByLAPost

IRS Warns of "Pig Butchering" Schemes 

The IRS is warning customers about scams using false online dating accounts that are used to deceive people into making fraudulent Bitcoin investments. These fraudulent activities are increasing worldwide, with American individuals often being targeted.  The IRS Criminal Investigation division describes pig butchering as a disturbing financial exploitation tactic exploiting vulnerable people seeking connection. In these schemes, strangers cultivate relationships through dating sites or social media, building affection and trust. Eventually, the scammer urges their target to invest in a cryptocurrency platform they tout, promising huge returns. But the entire operation is fabricated to steal funds, leaving victims penniless. According

November 20, 2023
IRS Warns of "Pig Butchering" Schemes 
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Is it Anxiety or a Panic Attack? Learn to Tell the Difference

While commonly used interchangeably, “anxiety attack” and “panic attack” refer to distinct conditions, each with significant differences. Learning to identify each can help assess when professional treatment may be needed. While both create distress, their causes, onset, severity and duration vary. Recognizing the divergence equips individuals to better manage symptoms. Unlike panic attacks, anxiety attacks have no formal clinical definition. The presence of those conditions is not explicitly recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). However, the DSM-5 defines anxiety as a feature of disorders like generalized anxiety, social anxiety, PTSD and more. Anxiety often relates

November 20, 2023
Is it Anxiety or a Panic Attack? Learn to Tell the Difference
Food|WrittenByLAPost

Gluten-Free Recipes That Show You Care This Thanksgiving

The beloved children’s book character Amelia Bedelia wins over her angry boss with a tasty homemade pie. As Thanksgiving nears, it’s a reminder that food can be a small gesture of care, especially when accommodating dietary restrictions. Preparing gluten-free dishes shows guests you want everyone to feel included. Two recipes—savory sticky rice stuffing and pumpkin meringue pie—will please all palates with flavor and thoughtfulness. In the first Amelia Bedelia book, the new housekeeper bakes a delicious pie before carrying out chores literally rather than figuratively. Her pie appeases her boss, who then vows to give clearer instructions. The story captures

November 20, 2023
Gluten-Free Recipes That Show You Care This Thanksgiving
Entertainment|WrittenByLAPost

Matthew Perry Foundation Launched to Continue Actor's Addiction Work

Following the untimely death of beloved actor Matthew Perry on October 28th at age 54, a foundation has been established to carry on his dedication to helping fellow addicts. Announced via press release on November 18th, the Matthew Perry Foundation will accept donations to assist individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction. “In the spirit of Matthew Perry’s enduring commitment to helping others battling the disease of addiction, we embark on a journey to honor his legacy,” reads the foundation’s statement. Guided by Perry’s own words and experiences, the organization aims to make a difference for as many lives as

November 16, 2023
Matthew Perry Foundation Launched to Continue Actor's Addiction Work
Economy|WrittenByLAPost

Supreme Court Rejects Outdoor Exercise for Solitary Confinement Prisoners

The Supreme Court made a controversial decision on Monday by choosing not to consider the case of an Illinois inmate who has been kept in solitary confinement and without outdoor exercise for nearly three years. The court’s brief order rejecting the case gave no rationale, as is customary. But three dissenting liberal justices penned a forceful rebuttal, decrying the appalling mistreatment suffered by inmate Michael Johnson. Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, joined by Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan, described the harrowing conditions imposed on Johnson at Pontiac Correctional Center. “Throughout that period, Johnson occupied a cell without windows, constantly illuminated,

November 16, 2023
Supreme Court Rejects Outdoor Exercise for Solitary Confinement Prisoners
Local|WrittenByLAPost

The Saga of LA's "Tenant From Hell"

In an ordeal spanning nearly two years, a Los Angeles homeowner has finally evicted a woman he describes as the “tenant from hell.” Elizabeth Hirschhorn was removed by police last Friday from a Brentwood guest house she had occupied since 2021 without paying rent. The dramatic saga highlights the complexities of short-term rental laws. Hirschhorn initially rented Sascha Jovanovic’s guesthouse through Airbnb in 2021. Their landlord-tenant relationship began normally, with Hirschhorn paying $105 per night to stay in the unit, as stipulated on Airbnb. But when her 6-month lease ended, Hirschhorn refused to vacate the property. This began a contentious

November 16, 2023
The Saga of LA's "Tenant From Hell"
Food|WrittenByLAPost

No-Knead Bread: The Recipe That Launched a Thousand Loaves

In November 2006, the food world glimpsed the start of a baking revolution. At the test kitchens of Cook’s Illustrated magazine, colleagues crowded around a just-baked loaf of bread. Still steaming and crackling as it cooled, the open, moist crumb and glossy crust were astonishing. This was no-knead bread, a technique recently published by Jim Lahey and Mark Bittman in The New York Times. It would profoundly impact how home bakers saw yeast breads. “This was the recipe that democratized bread-baking,” says chef Peter Reinhart, author of The Bread Baker’s Apprentice. Both simple and foolproof, no-knead bread yielded superior flavor

November 16, 2023
No-Knead Bread: The Recipe That Launched a Thousand Loaves
Health|WrittenByLAPost

A Bad Night of Sleep Affects You More Than You Think 

At times, we encounter difficulties in achieving restful sleep—whether it involves struggling to fall asleep until the early morning, waking up multiple times during the night, or staying awake all night. The repercussions of insufficient sleep are detrimental, impacting cognitive abilities and emotional well-being, as indicated by studies. Nevertheless, science offers guidance on mitigating the adverse effects that cannot be avoided when faced with a night of poor sleep. The brain plainly suffers when sleep-deprived. Studies forcing subjects to stay awake 24+ hours find slowed reactions, lapses in memory, a weakened ability to pay attention, and flawed decision-making. But even

November 16, 2023
A Bad Night of Sleep Affects You More Than You Think 
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Is self-checkout making us lonelier?

Self-checkout lanes are on the rise, and while most customers prefer the privacy of self-checkout, experts have argued that increased reliance on automated transactions chips away at critical social bonds. According to Catalina Marketing, self-checkout now accounts for nearly 40% of checkout lanes at grocery stores. Research reveals the number of lonely Americans has risen steadily since self-checkout’s emergence. With less daily interaction between customers and frontline workers, so-called “weak ties” that boost wellbeing fade. And 75% of Americans say innovations like self-checkout have decreased social skills despite their convenience. Toni Antonucci, a University of Michigan psychology professor, explains weak

November 16, 2023
Is self-checkout making us lonelier?
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Do Emotions Get 'Stuck' in the Body?

The term “emotional baggage” is commonly used in reference to persons who are dragged down by their prior experiences. Though it may sound abstract, many people do think that pent-up feelings may have real physical effects. The question is – does scientific evidence support this mind-body connection? In recent decades, research has increasingly indicated a link between mental and physical health. Emotions generate physiological responses, like muscle tension or changes in heart rate. Over time, unprocessed emotions may contribute to chronic issues. However, the mechanisms behind this require more study. When a strong emotion arises, brain activity increases in the

November 16, 2023
Do Emotions Get 'Stuck' in the Body?
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Public Restroom Warning About Toilet Paper Sparks Alarm

Using public restrooms is an everyday necessity for most people. However, a recent viral TikTok video has raised alarming concerns about the potential health risks hidden in plain sight in these public spaces. The now infamous video by user Dane Jones displays an image of a toilet paper roll covered in small red flecks and thin streaks. Jones claims these stains come from intravenous drug users cleaning their needles on the toilet paper, leaving behind traces of contaminated blood. With over 7 million views, the graphic advisory has left many viewers fearful of using public restrooms. But how credible are

November 15, 2023
Public Restroom Warning About Toilet Paper Sparks Alarm
Entertainment|Sports|WrittenByLAPost

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce: Real Romance or NFL Cash Grab?

The National Football League (NFL) has made millions in recent weeks thanks to an unexpected source: pop superstar Taylor Swift. Rumors linking Swift to NFL player Travis Kelce, tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, have driven up television ratings, merchandising revenue, and ticket sales. This windfall illustrates how the NFL capitalizes on every money-making opportunity associated with its players. Dating speculation began swirling in September 2022 when Swift was spotted in the stands at a Chiefs home game, seated near Kelce’s mother. Kelce then mentioned in an interview that he had given Swift his phone number and invited her

November 14, 2023
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce: Real Romance or NFL Cash Grab?
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Can't Face Another Burpee? Meet "Cozy Cardio," Exercise for the Rest of Us

Amid the sweat-drenched aura of high intensity workouts, a TikTok creator is pioneering a radically different fitness vision centered on low-impact “cozy cardio.” This feel-good approach reimagines exercise as a self-care ritual rather than a draining chore, garnering devotees and expert praise. Hope Zuckerbrow coined the “cozy cardio” concept in videos showing her exercising casually while wearing pajamas and watching TV. This unorthodox routine was born when Zuckerbrow, unable to fall back asleep one morning, started walking on her treadmill with coffee in hand. She decided to film this relaxing activity, dubbing it “cardio…but make it cozy.” The video amassed

November 13, 2023
Can't Face Another Burpee? Meet "Cozy Cardio," Exercise for the Rest of Us
World|WrittenByLAPost

Trainer's 527 Citations for Safety Violation Expose Crisis of Enforcement

Santa Anita Park, a renowned Southern California horse racing venue, has built a reputation for having stringent safety measures to protect its equine athletes. However, recent revelations have raised serious concerns within the horse racing community regarding hypocrisy and favoritism at the track. The issues center around trainer Dan Blacker, who was cited for a staggering 527 violations by the California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) for failing to schedule veterinary examinations within 72 hours of racehorses’ workouts. This violation was uncovered following the tragic breakdown and subsequent euthanization of Blacker’s unraced 2-year-old filly, Animae, after a workout. Investigators found that

November 13, 2023
Trainer's 527 Citations for Safety Violation Expose Crisis of Enforcement
Entertainment|Political|WrittenByLAPost

From Pop Concerts to MAGA Rallies: How Fandom Fuels Trump

When pop icon Taylor Swift appeared at an NFL game to support her boyfriend, it set off a media frenzy, underscoring the magnetic pull between megastars and their superfans. This same magnetic force continues to sustain former President Donald Trump’s political movement, revealing how modern fandom dynamics now shape public life. Just as Swifties flock to her concerts in costume and find community in collective musical passion, Trump supporters gather at rallies wearing MAGA hats while finding tribal identity in their political allegiance. This phenomenon transcends mere popularity to become an immersive culture and powerful group identity. While fandom has

November 13, 2023
From Pop Concerts to MAGA Rallies: How Fandom Fuels Trump
Economy|WrittenByLAPost

The Systemic Failures That Nearly Caused an Airport Disaster

On a foggy morning in February, an air traffic controller in Austin cleared a FedEx cargo jet to land just as a Southwest Airlines passenger plane barreled down the same runway for takeoff. Seconds from disaster, the FedEx pilots wrenched their aircraft up and over the other jet, averting tragedy for the 128 passengers and crew aboard. The alarming near-collision represented just the latest in a string of close calls stemming from lapses in air traffic control this year. An investigation by The New York Times exposed how this incident resulted not from one controller’s isolated mistake, but rather systemic

November 13, 2023
The Systemic Failures That Nearly Caused an Airport Disaster
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Inside the Hidden Eating Disorder Symptom That Sabotages Recovery

While sensationalized disorders like anorexia, bulimia and binge eating capture headlines, a lesser-known but exceedingly common disordered behavior hides in plain sight. Compulsive exercise afflicts up to 80% of those with eating disorders, yet few recognize the immense dangers it poses. Understanding this prevalent symptom is key to providing proper support for recovery. Also called excessive exercise or over-exercising, compulsive exercise involves working out excessively in a rigid, rule-bound way, both as part of an eating disorder and as a standalone issue. Those who suffer feel internally driven or compelled to exercise for long hours daily, even when injured, ill

November 13, 2023
Inside the Hidden Eating Disorder Symptom That Sabotages Recovery
Business|Economy|WrittenByLAPost

Inside the Coordinated Effort to Roll Back State Child Labor Laws

When Iowa legislators voted in April to allow 14-year-olds to work overnight shifts, they advanced an agenda stealthily coordinated by a major conservative advocacy group. The Foundation for Government Accountability has orchestrated a systematic state-level push to weaken child labor regulations, achieving remarkable success in rolling back protections. This lobbying effort comes as the Biden administration scrambles to enforce federal child labor laws amid surging violations. The FGA notched its biggest win in March, playing a key role designing a new Arkansas law eliminating work permits and age verification for workers under 16. The legislation’s sponsor openly acknowledged it “came

November 13, 2023
Inside the Coordinated Effort to Roll Back State Child Labor Laws
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Does TikTok's Navel Oiling Trend Really Aid Weight Loss and Stress Relief?

The latest health fad exploding on TikTok is navel oiling, which involves massaging oil on the belly button and surrounding abdomen. Videos under the hashtag #naveloiling have amassed over 11.5 million views, as social media influencers tout a range of enticing health claims about this traditional practice. But medical experts caution that there is minimal to no scientific evidence backing these exaggerated assertions. Also called navel pulling, navel oiling traces back thousands of years to Ayurvedic medicine traditions in India. Practitioners applied oils like ginger, peppermint, olive, coconut, and sesame to the navel area for purported therapeutic benefits. This ancient

November 13, 2023
Does TikTok's Navel Oiling Trend Really Aid Weight Loss and Stress Relief?
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Navigating the Nuances of Hot New Weight Loss Drugs

“Ozempic” has become shorthand for a new class of injectable diabetes and weight loss drugs flooding social media and dominating conversations. But use of the brand name overlooks meaningful distinctions between Ozempic and its sister drugs Wegovy, Mounjaro and Zepbound. Understanding the nuanced differences in approval, dosing, mechanisms and results can empower patients to make informed choices about these potentially life-changing medications. Ozempic (semaglutide) was first approved by the FDA in 2017 for managing type 2 diabetes at doses of 0.5mg and 1mg, and received approval for a 2mg dose in 2022. Critically, it is not approved for weight loss

November 13, 2023
Navigating the Nuances of Hot New Weight Loss Drugs
Business|WrittenByLAPost

Two Sides of the Same Con: How Trump and Bankman-Fried Deployed Similar Tactics to Dupe the Public

Fabricating a compelling personal narrative and exuding an air of humble genius, Sam Bankman-Fried and Donald Trump crafted larger-than-life public personas that masked fraudulent business dealings. Though seemingly opposite characters, both men relied on similar tools of deception, from doctored financials to tight inner circles, to successfully pull off their respective cons. Their eventual downfalls exposed the manipulative showmanship hiding behind their calculated facades. On the surface, the disheveled tech wunderkind “SBF” and the brash real estate tycoon Trump appear personas apart. But a closer examination reveals striking parallels in how they carefully curated their images to enable their deceptive

November 13, 2023
Two Sides of the Same Con: How Trump and Bankman-Fried Deployed Similar Tactics to Dupe the Public
World|Education|WrittenByLAPost

Inside the Frat-Boy Crime Ring That Swept the South

The flowed facade of fraternity life has long obscured a troubling underbelly of secretive wrongdoing. This was never more apparent than in the unraveling of a sprawling fraternity crime ring that recently sent shockwaves across the southern United States. Led by an ambitious college student named Mikey Schmidt, this clandestine criminal enterprise exploited the loyalty and resources of fraternity networks to facilitate an array of illicit activities. Over time, the seemingly innocuous traditions and rituals of fraternity life became breeding grounds for increasingly serious criminal transgressions. The eventual downfall of this crime ring would expose unsettling truths about the capacity

November 13, 2023
Inside the Frat-Boy Crime Ring That Swept the South
World|WrittenByLAPost

Cold and Calculated: Microsoft Exec's Ex-Wife Behind His Murder, Police Allege

The former wife of a Microsoft executive who was killed in Florida last year has been arrested for allegedly conspiring with her new spouse to commit the murder. According to prosecutors, Shanna Gardner-Fernandez allegedly planned for several months to have her former spouse, Jared Bridegan, murdered in the presence of their young child. Gardner-Fernandez was indicted by a grand jury for the killing that took place in February 2022. The charges include first-degree murder and child abuse. She was taken into custody in Washington state and will be sent to Florida. Prosecutors are also seeking capital punishment against her and

November 10, 2023
Cold and Calculated: Microsoft Exec's Ex-Wife Behind His Murder, Police Allege
World|Technology|WrittenByLAPost

China Constructing Largest 'Ghost Particle' Detector Under the Sea

Scientists in China are constructing the biggest detector on Earth to capture elusive subatomic particles called neutrinos, by anchoring thousands of sensors over a mile deep beneath the Pacific Ocean. Named the Tropical Deep-sea Neutrino Telescope (TRIDENT), the massive project will be online by 2030. By leveraging the ocean’s depth, TRIDENT will observe cosmic neutrinos in unprecedented detail as they briefly interact with water molecules. Neutrinos are nicknamed “ghost particles” because they pass through matter unaffected, including our entire planet. But TRIDENT’s enormous scale increases the chance to detect neutrinos when they rarely collide with water particles, producing telltale flashes

November 10, 2023
China Constructing Largest 'Ghost Particle' Detector Under the Sea
Local|Food|WrittenByLAPost

Say Goodbye to Salmon? California Ban Will Slash Supply and Spike Prices

Salmon lovers may need to budget more for the nutrient-rich fish this year as regulators move to halt all salmon fishing off California’s coast for 2023. With the state’s major wild salmon sources off limits, limited supply will drive up costs. The Pacific Fishery Management Council has recommended cancelling the season starting May 16 for salmon fishing in California and southern Oregon. This expected federal approval reflects forecasted low population numbers of Chinook salmon returning to spawn in the Klamath and Sacramento Rivers. “California is really good at providing nutritionally valuable food like salmon to Americans,” said PFMC’s Robin Ehlke.

November 10, 2023
Say Goodbye to Salmon? California Ban Will Slash Supply and Spike Prices
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Is Low Serotonin the Missing Long COVID Clue? New Finding Points to Chemical Imbalance

A new study suggests low serotonin levels in the body could help explain some of long COVID’s most troublesome symptoms, including brain fog, headaches, and fatigue. The research proposes lasting viral traces may hamper serotonin production, depriving patients of the essential chemical. Around 30% of COVID survivors worldwide develop long COVID, suffering prolonged effects like reduced endurance, anxiety, and memory issues months or years later. Though causes remain unclear, the recent study in Cell identifies a possible biological contributor: depleted serotonin resulting from inflammation and impaired nutrient absorption. If confirmed, the serotonin deficiency theory could pave the way for more

November 10, 2023
Is Low Serotonin the Missing Long COVID Clue? New Finding Points to Chemical Imbalance
Health|WrittenByLAPost

When Antidepressants Rob You of Sex—Permanently

Millions take selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Prozac and Celexa to treat depression and anxiety. But for some, once the drugs are stopped, permanent sexual side effects persist, devastating romantic lives. Now a vocal movement is speaking out about post-SSRI sexual dysfunction (PSSD) – a little-known condition where severe sexual problems continue even after quitting the medication. Patients report genital numbness, eliminated libido, and inability to orgasm or feel intimacy. “My clitoris feels like a knuckle. It’s not a normal thing to have to come to terms with,” said Emily Grey, who took Celexa at age 17-23 but still

November 10, 2023
When Antidepressants Rob You of Sex—Permanently

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