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Illustration of a person stretching, with another lounging on their back.

Here's the only science-backed lesson on exercise you need to lose fat

Think the gym is your only bet for burning belly fat? Emerging research suggests otherwise. So what actually works best... and can you just skip exercise entirely?
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How to finally silence your inner critic, according to psychologists

The criticism coming from your inner voice isn’t always the most constructive. But psychologists are working on ways to help your negative self-talk.
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Climate change has now shrunk US salaries by 12%. And worse is to come

No matter where you live, a new study has found warmer temperatures are picking your pocket
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A young tricolour border collie outdoors

Your dog might be eavesdropping on your conversations – and learning words from them

Certain dogs can learn words like human toddlers, by listening to family members’ conversations
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Image 428 of BBC Science Focus is on sale from 30 Dec 2025

New issue: Don't count the calories

January’s long nights, howling winds and unending drizzle that constitute a British winter all seem to scream: stay indoors, get under a blanket and stay very still. But every year, I reach January and the same conclusion as millions of others: it’s time for change. Christmas is what does it. There’s only so much indulgence the body can take. It starts on the 24th when, if you’re lucky, work’s finished and the fridge is full. Over the next seven days, I’ll feast like a Tudor monarch, picking at carcasses, stabbing at cheese and washing it all down with a bit of port (well, someone’s got to finish it). But by New Year’s Day I’ve had enough. Meaningful, lasting change isn’t easy. The science says so. Sure, a fitness influencer will scream at you until they’re Christmas-ham-pink in the face that losing weight is JUST SIMPLE MATHS: burn more calories than you consume, and you’ll lose weight. But your genes, biology and chemistry don’t work like a calculator. There’s more to it. So we’re here to help you construct bite-sized changes that will add up to significant improvements in your health and wellbeing this year.
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Floating brain surrounded by colorful books and lightning bolts representing knowledge and learning concept on blue background. 3D Rendering.

Why we keep getting the cause of dyslexia wrong

Everything from genetics to the way our brains process sounds can pose challenges as we learn to read
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Four planets around a star

Most planets in our galaxy are born ‘bloated’, new study suggests

The planets are unlike anything found in our Solar System
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Side on photo of a person mid-sprint.

Should I ditch the HIIT?

HIIT exercise isn't for everyone and there's some evidence that you can overdo it. Here's what the experts recommend
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These are the most narcissistic countries in the world, study suggests

Plus, why some groups are more likely to be self-obsessed, no matter their nationality
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