Anxiety is seen as an obstacle to success. It is a thought that always lingers in your mind before you start to do something. If you are doing something new or trying to do something that you have already done it in your life and have bad memories with. This thought creeps in. This thought that sometimes sends chills down your spine, makes you shiver, or that makes you feel like you cannot breathe, as if someone has put a huge rock on your heart is what defines anxiety. However, emerging research suggests that it can in fact, serve as a valuable tool for focus, motivation and problem solving. Studies on performance and stress, including the widely known Yerkes-Dodson curve, indicate that moderate levels of anxiety can enhance productivity, while both excessive and insufficient anxiety can hinder it.

The Yerkes-Dodson curve demonstrates that when anxiety is too high, it can become paralyzing, preventing individuals from taking action. On the other hand, very low anxiety can lead to complacency, reducing motivation and attention to detail. The ideal state falls somewhere in the middle, where anxiety signals importance, sharpens focus, and encourages preparation.

This perspective challenges the common belief that anxiety should always be suppressed. Instead, researchers argue that learning to harness anxiety can be beneficial. Studies have shown that people experiencing moderate anxiety often generate more creative solutions to problems compared to those who remain entirely calm.

How Can You Use Anxiety To Your Benefit?

Anxiety can serve as a sort of increased awareness, motivating people to take action in critical situations. Medical decision-making research show that concerned people are more likely to follow up on health issues, stick to treatment plans, and aggressively seek medical help. For example, studies on heart transplant patients show that people with moderate levels of anxiety are more likely to seek adequate care, which leads to improved survival rates.

The same strategy is used to address everyday difficulties. Anxiety tells the brain that something is important and requires effort. Anxiety can encourage you to be prepared and attentive, whether you're preparing for a presentation, making a critical life decision, or dealing with an uncertain situation.

Is There A Thin Line Between Anxiety That Helps And That Harms?

Despite its potential benefits, anxiety can become debilitating when it causes what researchers term “functional impairment.” This occurs when excessive worry prevents individuals from fulfilling their daily responsibilities, whether in work, relationships, or personal well-being.

One method for distinguishing between helpful and harmful anxiety is cognitive reframing—shifting the perspective on stressors. Studies suggest that those who reframe anxiety as a performance-enhancing tool rather than a hindrance experience less distress and greater effectiveness in high-pressure situations. By viewing anxiety as a source of energy rather than a threat, individuals can improve their ability to navigate challenges.

Research on stress resilience indicates that experiencing a moderate amount of adversity in life can lead to stronger coping skills. Longitudinal studies on both humans and animals suggest that those who have faced and overcome moderate difficulties—such as personal loss or professional setbacks—tend to develop greater mental fortitude.

One study found that individuals who had endured a small number of adverse events exhibited better overall mental health than those who had either faced extreme hardship or had led relatively stress-free lives. This pattern aligns with the concept of "stress inoculation," where manageable levels of stress act as a form of psychological training, making individuals more resilient to future challenges.

So, What Can You Do?

Rather than attempting to eliminate anxiety, researchers suggest acknowledging it as a natural response that can be channeled productively. Psychological studies indicate that when people view their physiological responses—such as increased heart rate and adrenaline surges—as performance enhancers, their actual outcomes improve.

For instance, in high-stakes situations like public speaking or athletic competitions, individuals who interpret nervousness as a sign of readiness rather than fear tend to perform better. Physiologically, the body's response to excitement and fear is similar; the key difference lies in perception.

Research suggests that those who embrace a mindset of "anxiety as fuel" experience improved cognitive and physical performance. This approach aligns with studies showing that moderate stress prompts the release of hormones that enhance alertness and problem-solving ability, whereas overwhelming stress triggers a flood of cortisol, which can impair decision-making.

The use of nicotine pouches is rising sharply across the UK, especially among young adults, recent research suggests. These small pouches sit between the lip and gum and release nicotine gradually into the body. Available in many flavours, they often include sweeteners and plant-based fibres. But are they truly a better option than smoking, or could nicotine pouches still pose health risks? We take a closer look below.

What Are Nicotine Pouches?

Nicotine pouches are small, tobacco-free sachets that contain nicotine powder along with flavourings and fillers. They are placed between the lip and gum, similar to snus, allowing nicotine to be absorbed without smoke, vapour, or spitting. Marketed as a discreet way to consume nicotine, they still deliver a highly addictive substance and expose users to certain chemicals. Health experts have raised concerns, particularly for young people, despite these products often being promoted as a “safer” choice than cigarettes.

Popular brands such as Zyn, On!, and Velo now dominate a fast-growing market, according to the CDC. Like vaping, they do not contain tobacco and are generally viewed as less harmful than smoking.

A recent study led by researchers at University College London (UCL) found that over the past five years, about 522,000 additional people in the UK have started using nicotine pouches, with usage rising from 0.1% to 1% of the adult population.

This has raised an important question: are nicotine pouches actually safer than smoking, and what is driving their sudden popularity?

Nicotine Pouches: Is Using Them Safer Than Smoking?

Speaking on *Mornings with Ridge and Frost*, lead study author Dr Harry Tattan-Birch from UCL’s Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care told Sky News that the risks linked to nicotine pouches are much lower than those associated with smoking. “There’s no tobacco and no combustion,” he explained. “And we know it’s the burning of tobacco that causes most smoking-related diseases.”

That said, Dr Tattan-Birch and his colleagues stressed that these products are not harmless and should never be accessible to children. The NHS notes that while nicotine itself does not cause serious diseases in the way tobacco does, young people’s developing brains and lungs are more vulnerable to its effects, and dependency can form quickly.

UCL research fellow Eve Taylor also told Sky News that nicotine pouches are “far less harmful than smoking,” but cautioned that they are still relatively new. Because of this, their long-term effects are not yet fully understood. “We can look at what’s in them to estimate potential risks,” she said. “They’re not risk-free. Users are still exposed to some toxic substances, even if the levels are much lower.”

Nicotine Pouches: Are Pouches Helping People Quit Smoking?

According to UCL’s findings, among participants surveyed between January 2022 and March 2025, 69% of nicotine pouch users were also using other nicotine products. More than half of them, 56%, were still smoking cigarettes. Around one in six users, or 16%, reported that they had never been regular smokers, suggesting the habit was not linked to quitting cigarettes.

As quoted by Sky News, Dr Tattan-Birch said the public health impact of nicotine pouches depends largely on who is using them. “If a young person who might otherwise smoke switches to pouches, that could reduce harm,” he said. “But if someone who wouldn’t have used nicotine at all starts using them, the risk of harm goes up.”

Researchers added that more studies are needed to understand whether nicotine pouches genuinely help people stop smoking in the long run.

Are Nicotine Patches Harmful For Health?

Nicotine patches are widely regarded as safer than smoking and are a well-established aid for quitting. They provide a steady dose of nicotine to reduce cravings without exposing users to tar or cancer-causing chemicals found in cigarettes. However, they are not completely without side effects. Common issues include skin irritation, headaches, and sleep disturbances. People with serious heart conditions or those who are pregnant are advised to speak with a doctor before using them, as nicotine can still affect heart rate and blood pressure, though far less dangerously than smoking, according to the CDC.

Ozempic (semaglutide) has quickly become a widely used drug for managing type 2 diabetes and supporting weight loss. With its growing use, many people are wondering whether it has any interaction with alcohol. There have also been reports suggesting that Ozempic may reduce alcohol cravings in some users.

While it is not always necessary to completely avoid alcohol while taking Ozempic, doctors say there are certain side effects and risks that should not be ignored. To understand this better, we spoke with Dr Monika Sharma, Senior Consultant in Endocrinology at Aakash Healthcare.

Also Read: Nicotine Pouches: Are They Really A Safer Alternative To Smoking, Or Just Another Health Risk?

Can Ozempic Make Alcohol Hit Twice as Hard?

Yes, alcohol can feel noticeably stronger when taken alongside medications like Ozempic, and this has a lot to do with how the drug alters digestion, metabolism, and brain signalling. Ozempic belongs to a class of medicines called GLP-1 receptor agonists. It is primarily prescribed for type 2 diabetes and is increasingly used for weight management. One of its key actions is slowing down stomach emptying, meaning that both food and liquids stay in the stomach longer before moving into the intestines.

Dr Sharma explains, “When alcohol is consumed, delayed gastric emptying can lead to uneven absorption. In some people, alcohol enters the bloodstream later but more rapidly once absorption begins, which can raise blood alcohol levels faster and intensify intoxication even with smaller amounts.”

Ozempic and Alcohol: Reduced Appetite and Drinking On An Empty Stomach

Another major factor is appetite suppression. Many people on Ozempic eat significantly less or skip meals altogether, either intentionally or due to reduced hunger. Drinking alcohol on an empty or nearly empty stomach allows it to be absorbed more quickly, as there is little food to slow the process. As a result, an amount of alcohol that once felt manageable may suddenly cause dizziness, flushing, nausea, or loss of coordination much sooner than expected.

Also Read: Delhi Sees Rising Cancer Burden With Sharp Increase in Oral and Lung Cancers; Breast Cancer Remains Most Common

Ozempic and Alcohol: Brain Effects and Alcohol Sensitivity

Ozempic also affects areas of the brain linked to reward, fullness, and impulse control. Emerging research suggests that GLP-1 receptor agonists may lower cravings for substances like alcohol, while at the same time increasing sensitivity to its effects. This means that even if the desire to drink decreases, the body’s reaction to alcohol may feel stronger or more unpleasant. Many users report unusual tiredness, light headedness, or nausea after just one drink, often describing it as alcohol “hitting twice as hard.”

Ozempic and Alcohol: Blood Sugar Changes and Hypoglycemia Risk

Blood sugar regulation is another concern. Alcohol can cause fluctuations in glucose levels, and when combined with a medication that tightly controls insulin release and glucose use, the risk of low blood sugar increases, particularly for people with diabetes. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include sweating, shaking, confusion, and palpitations. These signs can resemble alcohol intoxication or worsen its effects, making the experience more intense and potentially dangerous.

Ozempic and Alcohol: Dehydration and Slower Recovery

Dehydration also plays a role. Ozempic can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and reduced fluid intake, all of which increase the risk of dehydration. Alcohol further depletes fluids, and when the body is already low on hydration, alcohol’s impact on the brain and heart becomes stronger. This can lead to faster intoxication, headaches, and a longer recovery time after drinking.

Ozempic and Alcohol: Gut Sensitivity and Worsening Side Effects

Gastrointestinal sensitivity should also be considered. Ozempic commonly causes nausea, bloating, acid reflux, and stomach discomfort, especially in the early months of treatment. Alcohol irritates the stomach lining and relaxes the lower oesophageal sphincter, which can worsen these symptoms. Together, even small amounts of alcohol can trigger stronger negative reactions, reinforcing the feeling that tolerance has suddenly dropped.

Why Alcohol Feels Stronger On Ozempic

While Ozempic does not directly interact with alcohol the way some medications do, its indirect effects on digestion, hydration, metabolism, and the nervous system can make alcohol feel more potent. This is why moderation is strongly advised. People taking Ozempic should limit alcohol intake, avoid drinking on an empty stomach, stay well hydrated, and pay close attention to how their body responds.

In short, Ozempic can make alcohol feel stronger not because it increases alcohol levels directly, but because it changes how the body processes and reacts to alcohol. Being aware of this interaction can help people make safer, more informed choices while using this medication.

Dense, toxic smog covered India’s capital on Monday, driving air pollution to its highest levels in weeks, disrupting travel, and prompting authorities to enforce the strictest containment measures. More than 40 flights were cancelled, with several dozen more delayed. Over 50 trains arriving and departing from New Delhi faced delays of several hours, officials reported. Healthcare experts urged residents to stay indoors as hospitals recorded a surge in patients with breathing problems and irritated eyes. Now, a pulmonologist is warning that indoor air in Delhi might actually be more hazardous than the smog outdoors.

Delhi Pollution: Indoor Air More Toxic Than Outdoor Smog

Indoor air quality in Delhi is reportedly worse than the air outside, according to a lung specialist. Dr. Vivek Nangia, head of pulmonology at Max Healthcare, said indoor spaces can have particulate matter, or PM2.5 levels, nearly two-and-a-half times higher than outdoor readings, even when there are no direct pollution sources indoors.

Also Read: Delhi Sees Rising Cancer Burden With Sharp Increase in Oral and Lung Cancers; Breast Cancer Remains Most Common

“Indoor air can be 20 to 30 times more polluted than outdoor air, so it’s important to monitor and improve it,” he explained. Studies have shown that lung-damaging tiny particles inside homes are “substantially higher” than what nearby government monitors report outdoors. This was also confirmed by a study conducted by the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC) between 2018 and 2020, which surveyed thousands of Delhi households across different income levels, finding that both rich and poor families are affected equally.

Researchers noted that wealthier households were 13 times more likely to own air purifiers than low-income ones, yet indoor pollution in those homes was only about 10% lower than in disadvantaged settings.

“In Delhi, the bottom line is—whether someone is rich or poor, nobody gets to breathe clean air,” said Dr. Kenneth Lee, the study’s lead author. “It’s a complex, vicious cycle.”

Also Read: Delhi Is a Gas Chamber Where Nothing Comes In or Goes Out, Says Expert; Neighboring States Not to Blame for AQI

How Does Indoor Air Quality Affect Your Lungs?

Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) can harm the lungs by causing inflammation, weakening the body’s defenses, and triggering or worsening conditions such as asthma and COPD. Pollutants like dust, mold, VOCs, and smoke can lead to coughing, wheezing, infections, and long-term lung damage, even raising the risk of lung cancer over time. Because the lungs are constantly exposed to air, they are extremely sensitive to irritants, which can reduce lung function and capacity—particularly in children, older adults, and those with pre-existing conditions, according to the American Lung Association.

Dr. Nangia noted that patients are now showing a different kind of chest congestion. “These days we’re seeing two kinds of patients—those who never had lung issues before but are now coming in, saying their coughs, sneezing, and chest congestion started once air quality worsened, and those with existing lung problems who are experiencing much worse symptoms,” he said.

How To Protect Yourself From Indoor Toxic Air?

According to the American Lung Association, protecting yourself from indoor air pollution involves controlling sources of pollutants (no smoking, using low-VOC products), improving ventilation (opening windows, using exhaust fans), using HEPA air purifiers, cleaning regularly (dusting and vacuuming), managing humidity to prevent mold, and wearing N95 masks on days with high outdoor pollution to reduce indoor air infiltration.