Nordic Diet Cuts Mortality Risk by 23%, New Heart Health Research Emerges

Timing your meals to align with your body's natural sleep-wake cycle can improve cardiovascular health without changing what or how much you eat, according to a new Northwestern Medicine study published in the American Heart Association journal. The research found that middle-aged and older adults at elevated risk for heart disease who stopped eating at least three hours before bedtime and extended their overnight fast by roughly two hours experienced measurable improvements in key health markers.

Participants who adjusted their eating schedule saw nighttime blood pressure drop by 3.5% and heart rate decrease by 5%, reflecting a healthier daily rhythm where these measures naturally fall during rest and rise during activity. Their bodies also responded more effectively to glucose, suggesting improved insulin release and steadier blood sugar control. Remarkably, these benefits came entirely from timing shifts—participants didn't reduce calories or change their food choices.

The 7.5-week study emphasizes that circadian rhythm plays a central role in regulating cardiovascular and metabolic function. With nearly 90% adherence among the 39 participants, researchers believe this approach offers a realistic non-pharmaceutical intervention, particularly for middle-aged and older adults facing higher cardiometabolic risk. The team plans to expand testing in larger multi-center trials.

Montepulciano, a medieval hilltop town in southern Tuscany, has been named the world's most welcoming city for 2026 by Booking.com, based on more than 370 million verified guest reviews. The charming destination, home to just 14,000 residents, earned the distinction for its exceptional hospitality, stunning vineyard landscapes, and world-renowned Vino Nobile wine.

The recognition comes as part of Booking.com's annual Traveller Review Awards, which highlight destinations offering hospitality that leaves lasting impressions through thoughtful touches, warm interactions, and hosts who go the extra mile. Seven European destinations made the top global lists, including Harrogate, England in fourth place and Klaipėda, Lithuania, which impressed visitors with its sculpture-filled streets and charming old port.

The most welcoming regions list featured strong European representation as well, with Navarra, Spain claiming third place globally, followed by Saxony, Germany; Overijssel, Netherlands; and Epirus, Greece. The awards underscore a travel trend toward destinations where genuine local hospitality enhances the visitor experience beyond attractions and amenities alone.