WEIRD STUFF

Ice cream lickers make better lovers

Experts have linked techniques for eating ice cream to personality types and concluded that those who lick are "methodical" and "relaxed".

Lickers who show patience and enjoy every moment of their ice cream are considered to be more romantic than biters, who are regarded as "impulsive".

Behavioural expert, Jo Hemmings, said: "The speed-eater is likely to be high-energy, impulsive, enthusiastic and impatient. They want that dopamine hit as fast as possible.

"The slow-savourer is highly intentional and patient. They focus on the full sensory experience - the texture, the flavour, the smell, the cold comfort."

However, Hemmings emphasised that all ice cream eaters are more romantic than those who do not enjoy the sweet treat.

She said: "The ice cream lover's psyche revolves around pleasure seeking and nostalgia."

------------

Tea work wonders on high blood pressure

A cup of tea and a bar of chocolate are as good as drugs at reducing high blood pressure.

A study at the University of Surrey has revealed that naturally occurring compounds in a cuppa and confectionery treats can improve blood pressure and the health of blood vessels.

The compounds are called flavan-3-ols and are found in cocoa, tea, apples and grapes.

Researchers say they "show promise in improving blood pressure and vascular function, but are currently not used for cardiovascular prevention".

The study found that regularly eating flavan-3-ols can lead to a reduction in blood pressure readings, particularly in individuals with elevated or high blood pressure.

Professor Christian Heiss, lead author of the study, said: "The findings are encouraging for those looking for accessible ways to manage their blood pressure and support their heart health through enjoyable dietary changes."

-------

Poor sleep linked to stroke

Three nights of poor sleep can raise the risk of a heart attack or stroke in "perfectly healthy" people.

A new study has revealed that a lack of shuteye triggers molecular mechanisms that are linked to a greater danger of heart problems and just a couple of nights of inadequate rest is enough to set them off.

Swedish experts investigated how sleep deprivation affects biomarkers (proteins in this case) in the body that are linked to cardiovascular disease.

Dr Jonathan Cedernaes, study leader at Uppsala University, said: "Unfortunately, nearly half of all Swedes regularly experience disturbed sleep, and this is particularly common among shift workers.

"That is why we wanted to try to identify mechanisms that affect how lack of sleep can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

"Ultimately, the purpose was to identify opportunities to address these problems."

--------------