Children of women who take heartburn medicine during pregnancy are a third more likely to develop asthma, according to a new study.
However, it remains unclear whether the medication itself, or some other factor, is responsible for that increased risk, researchers reported in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.
“This association does not prove that the medicines caused asthma in these children,” said Aziz Sheikh, co-director of the Asthma UK Centre for Applied Research at the University of Edinburgh and co-author of the study.
“Further research is needed to better understand this link.”
Heartburn—discomfort caused by acid passing from the stomach up into the oesophagus—occurs frequently during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and pressure on the stomach from the expanding womb.
Certain drugs can block this acid reflux, and have long been thought not to affect the development of the baby.
Previous research had inconclusively pointed to an increased risk of allergies in offspring due to an impact on the immune system.
To dig deeper, scientists from Edinburgh and Finland reviewed eight previous studies involving more than 1.3 million children, drawing on healthcare registries and prescription databases.
They found that children born of mothers taking antacids were at least a third more likely to have visited a doctor for asthma symptoms.
Asthma is a chronic lung disease that inflames and narrows the airways. It frequently starts in childhood.
Symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath and coughing.
More that 330 million people worldwide suffer from asthma, with an especially high incidence in low- and middle-income countries, according to The Global Asthma Report 2014.
Experts commenting on the study did not challenge the link between the heartburn drugs and asthma in kids, but cautioned against jumping to conclusions.
“It may be that the heartburn in itself may be the most important association rather than the drugs used to treat it,” said Jean Golding, an emeritus professor of paediatric epidemiology at the University of Bristol.
Obesity in the expecting mother could also play a key role, said Seif Shaheen, a respiratory epidemiologist at Queen Mary University of London, noting that few of the studies took this factor into account.
40% of participants in a new study said food affects their sleep
Dairy and sweets were linked to worse sleep and more disturbing dreams
Fruit, herbal tea and vegetables were associated with better sleep quality
Authors suggest that lactose intolerance may play a role in dream disturbance
A recent study has explored how food may influence sleep and dreaming, with some participants reporting that certain items — particularly dairy and sweets — disrupted their rest and contributed to nightmares.
Study looked at food, sleep and dreams
The research, published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology on Monday, analysed responses from 1,082 college-aged participants who completed online surveys between January and April 2023. The survey asked about over a dozen food categories, including dairy, meat, fruit, desserts, and spicy foods.
According to the findings, 40.2% of respondents said their eating habits had an impact on their sleep. About 25% stated that at least one food group made their sleep worse, while 20% said that some foods improved it.
Among the foods most commonly associated with disrupted sleep were dairy products (milk, yoghurt, cheese), desserts and sweets, and spicy dishes. On the other hand, fruit, vegetables, and herbal tea were most often credited with improving sleep quality.
Dairy and sweets linked to disturbing dreams
When asked about the effect of food on dreaming, 5.5% of participants said they noticed a link. Of those, 31% said desserts and sweets triggered nightmares, while 22% blamed dairy.
The study’s authors noted that while the data is based on self-reported experiences and may lack scientific proof, previous research does support the possibility that food can influence sleep patterns.
They added that the connection between dairy and negative dream experiences could be due to gastrointestinal symptoms in people with lactose intolerance, such as bloating or cramps, which may disrupt sleep and affect dream quality.
Limitations of the study
The authors acknowledged potential limitations in their findings. All participants were university students enrolled in psychology courses, meaning they may have had prior knowledge of related topics that could have influenced their responses.
Despite this, the research adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting that what we eat may affect not only how well we sleep, but how we dream.
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The couple met on the members-only dating app Raya during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic
Morgan Riddle is an influencer and media personality with over 1 million followers.
She is known for popularising tennis among younger audiences.
Riddle and Fritz met on the dating app Raya in 2020.
She regularly travels with Fritz on tour and featured in Netflix’s Break Point.
Riddle has collaborated with Wimbledon and launched tennis-themed products.
Morgan Riddle, often referred to as Taylor Fritz’s girlfriend, has become a recognised figure in the tennis world, thanks to her growing media presence and efforts to modernise the sport’s image. As Fritz continues to climb the ATP rankings, currently sitting at World No. 5, Riddle is frequently seen supporting him courtside, including at the 2025 Wimbledon Championships in London.
A social media influencer with a tennis mission
Riddle has built a career as a full-time influencer and media personality, gaining popularity on Instagram and TikTok for her lifestyle, fashion and behind-the-scenes tennis content. Her viral videos, including one that aimed to “make tennis cool again,” have drawn both praise and criticism.
In the now-famous clip, Riddle explained how tennis works, described the annual tournament schedule, and spoke about her life travelling with Fritz. While some fans were critical, Fritz publicly supported her efforts, saying: “I 100 percent agree with everything in that video. I think what she did was awesome for our sport.”
A strong relationship in the spotlight
The couple met on the members-only dating app Raya during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. At the time, Riddle had just relocated to Los Angeles. Their first date involved takeout sushi and a horror film at home — a setting dictated by the lockdown restrictions of the time.
Riddle is frequently seen supporting him courtside, including at the 2025 WimbledonGetty Images
Despite busy schedules and constant travel, the couple have been together since 2020 and celebrated their three-year anniversary in June 2023. Riddle has said that maintaining their relationship takes teamwork and understanding, especially as they spend over 30 weeks a year on the road.
“We travel so well together,” she told PEOPLE magazine. “Both of us are very focused on what we’re doing… we’re very much immersed in each other, but also have our own things going on.”
From Minnesota to the global tennis stage
Riddle was raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in a hockey-loving household. Tennis was never part of her upbringing — in fact, she has joked about being “not athletic at all” and more involved in theatre and debate.
After studying English Language and Literature at Wagner College in New York, she entered the real estate sector before shifting to media and influencer marketing. She has since worked with outlets like the Food Network and Hollywire before committing full-time to content creation.
She has also worked as a model and in 2023 launched a tennis-themed jewellery line in collaboration with Lottie NYC.
Working with Wimbledon and growing tennis’ appeal
Riddle’s growing status within the sport led to a collaboration with Wimbledon in 2023, where she hosted a video series called Wimbledon Threads, interviewing fans about their fashion choices. She called the project a “huge” opportunity for being taken more seriously in the tennis world.
She has also used her platform to promote the sport among younger audiencesGetty Images
“To be recognised by a tournament of that prestige is just a big win for me,” she said. “That’s something that I’ve struggled with — especially with the older, more traditional tennis fan base.”
She has also used her platform to promote the sport among younger audiences, often sharing her travels to tournaments like the Laver Cup and the Nitto ATP Finals with her followers.
On screen and in the press
Riddle and Fritz both appeared in Netflix’s Break Point, the docuseries exploring professional tennis behind the scenes. Filmed by the creators of Formula 1: Drive to Survive, the show featured their journey and offered fans a glimpse into life on tour.
In August 2023, The New York Times profiled Riddle in an article titled The Most Famous Woman in Men’s Tennis, highlighting her unique position in the sport. She spoke about the pressures of public scrutiny, saying: “If his ranking had gone down, they’d say it’s my fault. The only time I really get nervous is when I see him getting nervous.”
Taylor Fritz's girlfriend continues to grow her profile
Morgan Riddle is an influencer and media personality with over 1 million followersGetty Images
As Taylor Fritz continues to perform at the highest level in men’s tennis, Morgan Riddle has carved out her own space within the sport. With a growing audience, strategic brand partnerships, and a shared goal of modernising tennis, she remains an influential figure in her own right, both on and off the court.
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The Met Office and UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have issued amber heat-health alerts
Amber heat-health alerts issued as temperatures approach 35°C in parts of the UK.
Early signs of heat stroke include confusion, slurred speech, and dizziness.
Heat exhaustion can develop into heat stroke if not treated within 30 minutes.
At-risk groups include the elderly, young children, and those with health conditions.
NHS and health experts urge people to stay hydrated, cool, and avoid midday sun.
Medical experts are urging the public to remain alert for the early signs of heat stroke, as temperatures across parts of England are expected to reach up to 35°C. The Met Office and UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have issued amber heat-health alerts, warning that extreme heat can have serious health impacts. Doctors stress that symptoms can begin subtly, making early intervention crucial.
Heat alerts across multiple regions
Amber-level warnings are in effect for the West Midlands, East Midlands, Yorkshire and the Humber, South East, South West, London, and the East of England.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said: “The temperatures we are likely to see over the next few days can result in serious health outcomes across the population.” He urged the public to take “sensible precautions while enjoying the sun”, and to look out for vulnerable individuals.
Recognising the early signs of heat stroke
Dr Javier Mateos Delgado, an emergency unit coordinator and expert in Family and Community Medicine, warned that heat stroke can begin with subtle neurological symptoms. These are often mistaken for tiredness or minor illness, delaying proper treatment.
According to Dr Delgado, early signs may include:
Slurred or incoherent speech
Irritability or mood changes
Disorientation or confusion
Loss of balance or blurred vision
He also noted that muscle cramps, especially at night or after exertion, despite drinking water, are a key warning sign. “The first symptoms are usually a feeling of intense heat, dizziness, and weakness,” he said. “You have to learn to listen to your body.”
When heat exhaustion becomes heat stroke
According to NHS guidance, heat exhaustion can be treated at home if the person is cooled down within 30 minutes. Signs include:
Dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Headache
Sweating heavily
Weakness and tiredness
Muscle cramps
Fast breathing
Feeling very thirsty
However, if symptoms don’t improve within half an hour or worsen, it could indicate heat stroke, a life-threatening emergency.
Call 999 immediately if someone shows signs of heat stroke, which include:
Hot, dry skin that isn’t sweating
A high body temperature and flushed appearance
Rapid heartbeat
Confusion or unusual behaviour
Seizures
Loss of consciousness
While waiting for emergency services, move the person to a shaded or cool area, give them fluids if possible, and use water or cold items to help reduce their body temperature, especially on the neck and underarms.
Heat stroke prevention: What to do
Dr Mateos Delgado emphasised that prevention is often overlooked. “The problem is not usually that we don't know what to do,” he said, “but that we don't do it.”
To prevent heat stroke, experts recommend:
Avoiding strenuous activity during peak sunlight hours (11 am to 3 pm)
Staying indoors or in shaded areas during the hottest part of the day
Drinking water regularly—even if not thirsty
Wearing light, loose-fitting clothing
Using fans or keeping rooms cool by closing blinds and windows
Wearing sunglasses and sun hats, and applying sunscreen
Checking on friends, relatives, and neighbours, especially those at higher risk
Who is most at risk of heat stroke?
While anyone can be affected, certain groups are especially vulnerable to heat stroke. These include:
People over 65 or under 5 years old
Those with chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, or dementia
People on medications that affect sweating or body temperature
Those experiencing mental health challenges or substance misuse
People living alone, outdoors, or in poor housing conditions
Outdoor workers, including construction or farm labourers
Health officials urge everyone to take extra care over the coming days, as the UK experiences potentially record-breaking temperatures.
Understanding the signs and symptoms of heat stroke and acting quickly could help save lives during the ongoing heatwave.
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The controversy surrounding the ketchup ban caught the attention of British condiment company Condimaniac
Jeremy Clarkson’s Farmer’s Dog pub banned non-British products, including ketchup and Coca-Cola.
The rule sparked months of backlash from customers who called it “weird”.
British condiment company Condimaniac developed a 100% British-sourced ketchup in response.
The new ketchup will be stocked at the pub, but only in full bottles for purchase.
Some visitors remain critical as the condiment isn’t yet available for table use.
Jeremy Clarkson’s strict British-only policy at his Farmer’s Dog pub has caused considerable controversy since its launch, particularly due to the absence of staple condiments like ketchup. However, a recent development by a British condiment company could finally offer a compromise. The pub will now stock a fully British-sourced ketchup developed in response to the ban, although it will only be available to buy in bottles rather than offered with meals.
Clarkson's British-only policy sparked backlash
When Jeremy Clarkson opened the Farmer’s Dog pub in the Cotswolds, featured on the Amazon Prime series Clarkson’s Farm, he introduced a strict rule: the pub would serve only 100% British food and drink. This ethos was designed to promote local sourcing and support British farming and production.
However, the rule had unintended consequences. Items such as ketchup, Coca-Cola, black pepper and coffee were excluded from the menu, as they could not be sourced entirely from within the UK. Clarkson said that sourcing black pepper domestically would cost “ten times more” than importing it.
The absence of these everyday items quickly drew criticism, with customers describing the rule as “weird” and impractical. Pub-goers were left without familiar condiments for their meals, leading to frustration and widespread backlash on social media.
Condimaniac creates British ketchup
The controversy surrounding the ketchup ban caught the attention of British condiment company Condimaniac. Founded in 2019, the business decided to take on the challenge of creating a truly British ketchup.
In May, after seeing a sign at the Farmer’s Dog banning ketchup, Condimaniac co-founders Kier Kemp and Jennifer Dreier posted about their mission on TikTok. The goal was to develop a ketchup using only British-grown ingredients, adhering to Clarkson’s strict standards.
Their efforts paid off. Earlier this month, the company announced that they had successfully produced a 100% British-sourced ketchup and that the Farmer’s Dog pub had agreed to stock it. The team visited the pub and said staff responded positively to the product.
Kemp praised the pub's staff, saying: “It is not just a gimmick for them – they do really live and breathe this 100% British thing. Everyone I have met is super lovely. I’m glad that I can report they are actually nice people. It is not always like that.”
Still not available for table use
While the ketchup will be sold at the Farmer’s Dog, it will only be available in whole bottles for purchase, either from the pub itself or the associated shop. This detail has sparked a fresh wave of criticism from some visitors, particularly on TikTok.
One commenter said: “I thought the whole point was so people can have some with their meal, not have to buy a bottle.” Another added: “Well done! Bit sh*t that guests have to buy a whole bottle if they want ketchup in their breakfast sandwich though.”
Supporters of the pub pointed out that the product is still in its early stages, and offering it on tables would not yet be financially viable until it can be produced at scale.
Despite the limitations, the move marks a softening of the original no-ketchup stance, and Clarkson’s supporters hope it could lead to further flexibility.
The Farmer’s Dog remains divisive
This isn’t the first time Clarkson’s pub has made headlines. Previous controversies include a customer being banned for calling the pub overpriced and a strict one-hour dining limit per table.
Still, for fans of Clarkson and local sourcing, the Farmer’s Dog represents a firm stand for British produce, even if it comes with fewer condiments on the side.
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The Turkey wildfires have not been limited to Izmir
Tourists stranded after Foça wildfire halts flights at Izmir airport
At least 550 people evacuated from homes in the region
Over 600 personnel deployed to contain the blaze
Strong winds and heat raise risk of further fires
Wildfires force airport shutdown in Turkish holiday hotspot
Hundreds of UK tourists, including several from Glasgow, have been left stranded after major wildfires swept through a popular holiday destination in western Turkey, forcing the closure of Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport.
The blaze broke out in the resort town of Foça, near Izmir, and was rapidly intensified by strong winds, prompting large-scale evacuations and flight disruptions. All operations at the airport were suspended from 4 pm local time due to ongoing extinguishing efforts, with multiple flights reportedly diverted.
More than 550 residents were evacuated from 175 homes in the Ilıpınar district, while emergency crews battled the fire for over 22 hours. The extensive response included 625 personnel, 46 fire engines, six helicopters, nine bulldozers and 13 water tankers.
Dramatic footage showed aircraft dropping water over the blaze in an effort to slow its spread. Authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire.
Süleyman Elban, Governor of Izmir Province, has urged residents and visitors to remain cautious, citing the combination of high temperatures and low humidity as factors that could lead to additional fires.
The Turkey wildfires have not been limited to Izmir. Blazes have also been reported this week in Kahramanmaraş, Bursa, Sakarya, Bilecik, Gaziantep, Bolu and Manisa, putting regional emergency services under sustained pressure.