Microwaves are a common appliance in every household now. You will see it in kitchens of not just houses, but offices, cafeterias, and co working space. However, there are studies that show that heating food in a microwave could be a health concern. While it does come handy, there are questions about harmful radiation and nutrient loss and heating safety that still linger.

Does Microwave Destroy The Nutrients In Food While Heating?

Some research suggests that microwaving may cause nutritional loss, particularly in vegetables. For example, studies have shown that microwaving broccoli with water diminishes its flavonoid content, which are anti-inflammatory compounds. However, experts note that cooking method and duration have a significant influence on nutrient retention.

Surprisingly, several studies indicate that microwaving preserves more nutrients than traditional cooking methods. A study comparing microwaved versus oven-cooked ready meals found that the microwaved version contained somewhat more vitamin C. Another study discovered that microwaving some vegetables, such as broccoli and green beans, may retain more beneficial compounds than boiling.

Ultimately, the nutrient loss really vary on the type of food which is being heated and how it is being cooked. Experts also recommend using minimal water and shorter cooking times to maximize the nutrient retention.

Is Heating In Plastic Safe?

Plastic containers and heating food in it, has always been a topic of debate. While containers do come with microwave-safe stamps, is it really safe to heat them with food?

According to research, when certain plastics are subjected to heat, they produce compounds such as phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA). These substances have been associated to hormonal disturbance, metabolic problems, and perhaps reproductive concerns.

A study also took in account over 400 plastic food containers that were microwave-safe and found that most of them leaked hormone-disrupting chemicals. These are phthalates, warn experts, which are commonly used in food packaging and can interfere with body's hormonal balance, and increase risk of diabetes or even high blood pressure.

Additionally, BPA exposure has been associated with fertility issues and immune system disruptions.

So, what can be done instead?

To minimize this risk, experts recommend using glass or ceramic container when microwaving foods. If you must use a plastic container, make sure the container is not damaged or old, as they are more prone to leach harmful chemicals.

What About The Radiation?

Concerns about microwave radiation have been largely debunked by decades of research. Microwaves use non-ionizing radiation, which does not have enough energy to damage DNA or cause cancer. The electromagnetic waves used in microwaves are similar to those from radios and light bulbs.

Experts emphasize that microwave ovens are designed to contain radiation, preventing exposure. As long as the microwave is in good condition and the door seals properly, there is no significant health risk from microwave radiation.

Other Concerns

Microwaving food could sometimes also lead to uneven cooking and it can create some risks to food safety. Thus, experts advertise to use microwave only to reheat the food and not to actually cook raw food. For safe reheating, food should reach at least 82°C (176°F) throughout to kill bacteria.

Concerns around fertility and vaccines often surface when people plan a family, and the HPV vaccine is no exception. Many women and men worry that getting vaccinated today could affect their ability to conceive later in life. Medical experts, however, say this fear is misplaced. According to fertility specialists, there is no evidence linking the HPV vaccine to reduced fertility. In fact, the vaccine may play a quiet but important role in protecting reproductive health over the long term.

Does The HPV Vaccine Affect Fertility?

The short and clear answer is no. The HPV vaccine does not negatively affect fertility in women or men. Dr. Madhu Patil, Consultant and Fertility Specialist at Motherhood Fertility and IVF, Sarjapur, Bangalore, explains that there is no scientific proof showing the vaccine causes fertility problems of any kind.

She notes that concerns often arise from misinformation rather than medical data. Extensive research and global vaccination programmes have consistently shown that people who receive the HPV vaccine do not experience reduced chances of conceiving in the future.

How HPV Infection Can Threaten Future Fertility

While the vaccine itself does not harm fertility, an untreated HPV infection can. HPV is the leading cause of nearly all cervical cancer cases. As per Dr Patil, “treatment for cervical cancer often involves procedures such as cone biopsy or LEEP, which can weaken the cervix. In more advanced cases, radiation or chemotherapy may be required.”

These treatments can reduce a woman’s ability to conceive and, in some cases, make it difficult to carry a pregnancy to full term. By preventing HPV-related cancers in the first place, the vaccine helps preserve the reproductive system and lowers the risk of fertility-compromising treatments later in life.

Why The HPV Vaccine Supports Reproductive Health

Dr. Patil points out that the HPV vaccine should be viewed as a protective measure rather than a risk. By stopping high-risk HPV strains from causing cancer or precancerous changes, the vaccine helps maintain cervical health. A healthy cervix and reproductive system are key factors in natural conception and safe pregnancies.

In this way, the vaccine indirectly supports fertility by reducing the likelihood of medical interventions that could interfere with reproductive function.

When Should the HPV Vaccine Be Taken?

Health experts recommend starting HPV vaccination at ages 11 or 12. At this stage, the immune response is strongest, and the vaccine offers protection well before any potential exposure to the virus. Dr. Patil strongly encourages parents to consult a gynaecologist and consider timely vaccination for their children.

That said, adults who missed vaccination earlier can still benefit. Many women and men receive the vaccine later in life after discussing it with their doctor.

Why Men Should Also Get The HPV Vaccine

The HPV vaccine is not only for women. Dr. Patil stresses that men should also be vaccinated, as HPV can cause cancers and genital warts that affect sexual health. Vaccination in men also reduces transmission to partners, adding another layer of protection for couples planning a family.

By limiting the spread of HPV, vaccination helps safeguard the reproductive and sexual health of both partners.

There is no evidence that the HPV vaccine reduces fertility. On the contrary, it helps prevent cancers and medical treatments that can threaten the ability to conceive or carry a pregnancy. Experts advise speaking with a gynaecologist, understanding the benefits, and making an informed decision based on medical facts rather than fear.

A three-year-old girl was left partially blind after what first seemed like a routine ear infection was later diagnosed as a life-threatening brain tumour. As per Express UK, Chloe Kefford was rushed to A&E when she started experiencing car sickness and balance problems. Doctors initially diagnosed her with an ear infection and sent her home with antihistamines. But as Chloe’s condition worsened, her parents insisted on further testing, which revealed a tumour affecting her optic nerve.

Ear Infection Symptoms Masked A Life-Threatening Diagnosis

Chloe, from Formby, Merseyside, underwent open brain surgery and faced three-and-a-half years of treatment, including proton beam therapy last year, after experiencing two relapses. Proton beam therapy uses high-energy protons to precisely target the tumour, limiting damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

Open Brain Surgery And Years Of Intensive Treatment Followed

Now nine years old, Chloe has been honoured with a special award from Cancer Research UK for her bravery throughout her treatment. She received her initial care at St George’s Hospital in London and The Royal Marsden, before being transferred to Alder Hey in Liverpool.

Proton Beam Therapy Used After Cancer Relapsed Twice

Chloe’s mother, Nikki, 38, recalled that the family had been planning a move from Surrey to Merseyside before Chloe fell ill. As per Express UK, she said: “The house was already sold and we were planning our new life by the beach when Chloe became ill. Then we ended up moving and having to isolate for months. She relapsed not long after we moved and had more chemotherapy, then she rang the bell in April last year, but unfortunately, she relapsed again in July. So, we were supposed to be going on holiday to Disneyland in Paris and instead we went to Manchester for six weeks for Chloe to have proton beam therapy.”

Nikki added: “She is partially sighted now and has no peripheral vision; one eye is particularly badly affected. The main aim now is to preserve what eyesight she has left. We’re hopeful that the recent targeted treatment has got the cancer once and for all. She’s on steroids at the moment and is being monitored with three-monthly scans. She’s still in recovery and struggles with fatigue from the treatment, but we hope she’ll have a bit more energy soon. She’s our little ray of sunshine.”

Each year, around 400 children and young people in the North West are diagnosed with cancer. Advances in treatment and research are helping make therapies more effective and less harmful. Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool is one of several centres across the UK taking part in pioneering clinical trials offering innovative new treatments.

In 2018, Cancer Research UK launched the Children’s Brain Tumour Centre of Excellence, supported by TK Maxx. The virtual centre brings together international experts in children’s brain tumour research to transform how treatments are developed. Every child nominated for a Star Award receives this recognition, which is endorsed by celebrities including JoJo Siwa and Pixie Lott.

Cancer Research UK spokesperson Jemma Humphreys said: “After everything Chloe’s been through, it’s been an absolute privilege to celebrate her incredible courage with a Star Award.”

People experiencing certain symptoms are being urged to stay at home as a highly contagious virus spreads quickly across England. Fresh figures from the UK Health Security Agency show a 47% rise in cases during the first two weeks of 2026. This sudden jump has led the agency to remind the public about basic hygiene steps that play a key role in limiting the spread. Data suggests that norovirus is affecting people aged 65 and above the most, and although overall activity remains within normal seasonal levels, there has been a noticeable increase in outbreaks in hospital settings.

The latest UKHSA surveillance update also points to falling levels of flu, COVID-19, and RSV in the opening week of the year. While all winter virus levels are currently where they would be expected for this time of year, people are being encouraged to continue following simple precautions to help keep infections on a downward path.

What Is Norovirus?

Norovirus Symptoms

Common symptoms of norovirus include:

• Nausea.
• Vomiting.
• Diarrhoea.
• Stomach pain.

You may also experience:

• Headache.
• Fever.
• Body aches.

Symptoms usually develop between 12 and 48 hours after exposure and typically last for one to three days.

Doctors Report New Symptoms Of Norovirus

Both flu and norovirus can behave unpredictably, with case numbers rising and falling throughout the season. This makes simple preventive steps especially important. For illnesses affecting the stomach or respiratory system, such as norovirus, regular handwashing remains one of the most effective measures.

Health experts stress that alcohol-based hand sanitisers do not work against norovirus. Washing hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, along with cleaning surfaces using bleach-based products, is far more effective in reducing the spread. Good ventilation indoors can also help limit the transmission of respiratory viruses like flu. Anyone who develops symptoms is advised to stay at home whenever possible.

If going out cannot be avoided, wearing a face covering may help, particularly when around people who are more vulnerable.

Amy Douglas, Lead Epidemiologist at the UKHSA, said, according to the Mirror: “We have seen a clear rise in norovirus cases in recent weeks, particularly among people aged 65 and over, alongside an increase in hospital outbreaks. Although levels are still within what we would normally expect, there are simple actions people can take to stop norovirus spreading further.

“Washing hands with soap and warm water and cleaning surfaces with bleach-based products are key steps. Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus, so they should not be relied on alone.

“If you have diarrhoea and vomiting, do not return to work, school, or nursery until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped, and avoid preparing food for others during this time. If you are unwell, please stay away from hospitals and care homes to protect those most at risk from infection.”