Dec 31, 2025Ravie LakshmananVulnerability / Incident ResponseThe United States Treasury Department said it suffered a "major cybersecurity incident" that allowed suspected Chinese threat actors to remotely access some computers and unclassified documents. "On December 8, 2024, Treasury was notified by a third-party software service provider, BeyondTrust, that a threat actor had gained access to a key used by the vendor to secure a cloud-based service used to remotely provide technical support for Treasury Departmental Offices (DO) end users," the department said in a letter informing the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs."With access to the stolen key, the threat actor was able to override the service's security, remotely access certain Treasury DO user workstations, and access certain unclassified documents maintained by those users."The federal agency said it has been working with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and that available evidence points to it being the work of an unnamed state-sponsored Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) actor from China.The Treasury Department further said that it has taken the BeyondTrust service offline, adding there is no evidence that the threat actors have access to the environment.Earlier this month, BeyondTrust revealed that it was the victim of a digital intrusion that allowed bad actors to breach some of its Remote Support SaaS instances.The company said its investigation into the incident found that the attackers gained access to a Remote Support SaaS API key that allowed them to reset passwords for local application accounts. BeyondTrust has yet to reveal how the key was obtained."BeyondTrust immediately revoked the API key, notified known impacted customers, and suspended those instances the same day while providing alternative Remote Support SaaS instances for those customers," it said.The probe has also uncovered two security flaws in Privileged Remote Access (PRA) and Remote Support (RS) products (CVE-2024-12356, CVSS score: 9.8 and CVE-2024-12686, CVSS score: 6.6), the former of which has been added to CISA's Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, citing evidence of active exploitation in the wild.The disclosure comes as several U.S. telecommunication providers have found themselves in the crosshairs of another Chinese state-sponsored threat actor named Salt Typhoon.Found this article interesting? Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn to read more exclusive content we post.SHARE

Our Experts Written by James Bricknell Our expert, award-winning staff selects the products we cover and rigorously researches and tests our top picks. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Reviews ethics statement Why You Can Trust CNET 16171819202122232425+ Years of Experience 14151617181920212223 Hands-on Product Reviewers 6,0007,0008,0009,00010,00011,00012,00013,00014,00015,000 Sq. Feet of Lab Space How we test CNETs expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise.Table of Contents Our Picks Easily washable Pure Enrichment View details $28 at Amazon (on-page coupon) View details Easy to wrap as needed Sunbeam Heating Pad View details $44 at Amazon View details Lumbar and heat support Newgam Lumbar Support Pillow View details $29 at Amazon View details Do not fear sleep Sunbeam Heating Pad for Neck and Shoulder View details $47 at Amazon View details Budget-friendly relief My Heating Pad for Pain Relief View details $23 at Amazon View details Subscribe to better fitness Apple Fitness Plus View details $80 at Apple View details Table of Contents If aches and pains are creeping up on you this winter, a heating pad could be the simple solution you didnt know you needed. Heating pads offer targeted relief for sore muscles -- especially for common trouble spots like the lower back and hips. Generally they are good for pains that come from daily activities, like the toll of a physically demanding job or from being hunched over a desk.For those of us spending our days sitting, often not in the best office chairs, a heating pad can help melt away tension and discomfort without breaking the bank. Theyre affordable, easy to use, and perfect for cozying up in the colder months. Plus, a quality heating pad is a practical gift that anyone would appreciate. Most heating pads deliver some relief for joint pain, neck pain and back pain and can even help with arthritis and cramps. To be clear, if you're experiencing back pain and you don't know why, you should consult your doctor. Trust me, you do not want to let random pain go untreated for long. That being said, let's have a look at what we can use to relieve some pain and pressure. $28 at Amazon (on-page coupon) This is a large heating pad you can wrap around problem spots. I switched to this brand for its more even heating (avoiding hot and cold spots that trouble electric heaters). The control pad lets you choose auto-shutoff or sustained heat until you're ready for a break. Plus, you can disconnect the cord and toss the soft microfiber pad into the wash to freshen it up.-- Jessica Dolcourt $44 at Amazon I suffer from an injury to my sciatic nerve that just loves to flare up when I sit down too much. Working from home, I tend to find myself getting deeply involved in a project and not standing as often as I should, which leads to some pain. When this happens, I know I need to break out my handy Sunbeam heating pad that I've had for a few years now.It's super reliable and has multiple temperature settings to control how much heat it lets off. It's available in a few different sizes, but I picked one of the middle sizes to cover more of my back at once to help relieve my back pain. It has a fabric pad cover, which has stayed clean for the years I've used it.-- Jared DiPane $29 at Amazon During lockdown, I bought one of these for myself to more comfortably work from bed. Then, I got two more to give as gifts to people who didn't know they needed them. Now I can't live without this cushy, portable support.-- Jessica Dolcourt $47 at Amazon $74 at Walmart I grabbed a Sunbeam heating pad because the most important feature of a heating pad, for me, is the ability to shut off automatically. I'm good at taking a painkiller, putting a heating pad on and falling asleep. Not the safest way to live. So it's nice to know my heating pad will turn off automatically after two hours of use. This model fits well everywhere, spreads heat out nicely and I don't have to worry about it being unsafe just because I've dozed off.-- Russell Holly

In its updated 2024 Guideline for the Primary Prevention of Stroke, the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association state that the Mediterranean diet has been shown to reduce the risk of stroke. Specifically, it is recommended that adults with no prior cardiovascular disease and people with high or intermediate risk follow the diet, which was also named the best diet of 2024 byUS News and World Reportand is also one of the best weight loss diets, according to experts.The Mediterranean diet is a nutrient-rich and nonrestrictive diet that works for many people. If that sounds appealing, here's everything you need to start the Mediterranean diet. But before you delve into any new diet, make sure to consult your doctor.What is the Mediterranean diet? Upgrade your inbox Get cnet insider From talking fridges to iPhones, our experts are here to help make the world a little less complicated. The Mediterranean diet is inspired by the traditional diets of people who live along the Mediterranean coast. While each country's diet may vary, the Mediterranean diet consists mainly of plant-based foods, seafood, lean poultry, whole grains, nuts, beans, olive oil, herbs and spices. The key is to eat as much fresh food as possible since highly processed foods are limited in the diet. Green Mediterranean dietA recent popular variation of the Mediterranean diet is the green Mediterranean diet. Instead of occasionally having red and processed meats with the regular diet, the green version eliminates meat and focuses on plant-based foods.There are set amounts of calories and protein to hit each day, in addition to three recommendations. Each day, an individual must obtain 100 grams of duckweed (an aquatic plant, usually put in a shake), 3 to 4 cups of green tea and 1 ounce of walnuts. A 2021 study found that the green Mediterranean diet variation may be healthier for one's heart than the original diet. It may even be more effective in preventing and managing chronic diseases. A 2022 study found that the diet may aid in age-related brain health. Read more:The Atlantic Diet: Why Eating Local, Whole Foods May Improve Your HealthMediterranean diet benefitsThe Mediterranean diet has many health benefits and is great for kosher, vegetarian or budget-conscious people.Heart healthThe most well-known benefit of this diet is its potential to boost heart health. A 2019 study concluded that the Mediterranean diet could lower your risk of stroke and heart disease. Also, due to the lower saturated fat content in the diet, a 2021 study found that it can slow the process of plaque building up in the arteries. Brain healthThe Mediterranean diet can promote brain health as we age. A 2021 study on Alzheimer's disease found that a Mediterranean diet can lower the risk of dementia and other risk factors for Alzheimer's disease. It may also improve memory and cognitive function. Possible weight lossThis diet may help you lose weight and maintain long-term weight loss. A 2020 study found that participants who lost at least 10% of their body weight on the Mediterranean diet were two times more likely to keep the weight off. Note that any diet is not complete without added exercise. If you are serious about weight loss, add daily exercise to your routine in addition to a new diet. Make sure to consult your doctor to find the right diet and exercise plan for you.Read more: Does Your Blood Type Affect Your Heart Health? Yes, but Here's the Full StoryHow does the Mediterranean diet work? Getty Images/Claudia Totir/MomentThe Mediterranean diet is one of the easiest to follow, and counting calories is not required. While there are no strict rules, there are a few recommendations. These include eating fish or seafood at least twice a week, drinking lots of water, eating a wide range of foods and filling your plate with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts and olive oil, daily. On top of these recommendations, your meals and snacks are up to you. Here is what you are encouraged to eat. Foods to eat on the Mediterranean dietOn the Mediterranean diet, try to eat plant-based and whole foods. These may include:Fish (salmon, tuna, herring, etc.)SeafoodPoultry, in moderationVegetablesFruitsDairy productsEggs, in moderationOlive oilChickpeasLentilsQuinoaPastaYogurt, in moderationNuts100% whole-wheat breadHerbsSpicesA glass of red wine with meals (no more than one glass for women, two glasses for men)A bit of dark chocolateFoods to limit on the Mediterranean dietWhile no foods are "off-limits," try to eat the following rarely:Red meatsSugary foods and drinksProcessed foodsButterMeal ideasFill your grocery list with these meal ideas for the week.BreakfastGreek yogurt with fresh fruit and a cup of teaWhole-wheat toast with natural peanut butter and a cup of coffee (added cream and sugar in moderation)LunchChicken orzo soup with vegetablesGreek salad with olives, avocado and feta cheeseDinnerSalmon cooked in olive oil, brown rice and roasted vegetablesTuna over quinoa and arugula with olive oil vinaigrette dressingSnacksAssorted nuts and seeds with natural cheesePita bread and vegetables with hummusIs the Mediterranean diet right for you? Getty Images/Westend61/Westend61Although named the best diet of 2024, the Mediterranean diet is not for everyone. Talk to your doctor before making any major dietary changes. If you are considering trying this diet for yourself, here are some points to remember. You should try the Mediterranean diet if:You do well with nonrestrictive dietsYou already eat lots of seafood, plant-based foods and whole grainsYou are looking for a budget-friendly diet low in unhealthy fats and high in healthy fatsTry another diet or seek a dietitian if:You need more structure or require some foods to be completely off-limitsYou have major food restrictions or allergiesYou need a tailored diet, weight loss and exercise plansMediterranean diet FAQs What is not allowed on the Mediterranean diet? Technically, no foods are strictly "off-limits" on the Mediterranean diet. You should try to either cut back on or avoid processed foods (especially processed meats), red meats, white breads and pastas, butter, processed oils and excessive alcohol (besides red wine). Can you eat eggs on the Mediterranean diet? Yes, you can eat eggs in moderation on the Mediterranean diet. If you have high cholesterol, try not to have more than four egg yolks in one week. Can you eat bananas on the Mediterranean diet? Yes, you can eat bananas on the Mediterranean diet. It is recommended to eat lots of fruits and vegetables on this diet. Which cheese is OK to eat on the Mediterranean diet? Natural cheeses are the best to eat on the Mediterranean diet. While there are no restrictions, the diet recommends limiting processed cheese. Stay away from heavily processed cheeses like American cheese or cheese-in-a-can. Instead, lean toward natural cheeses like mozzarella, feta, cheddar, Swiss, Parmesan or Muenster.

In BriefPosted:11:47 PM PST December 30, 2024Image Credits:Getty ImagesGupshup investor cuts value of its stake again, implying new valuation of $486MAsset management firm Fidelity slashed the estimated worth of its stake in business messaging platform Gupshup by another 7.7% last month, lowering the value of its holding in the SaaS startup by a total of more than 65% since its investment in mid-2021.One of the funds operated by the U.S. asset manager valued its holding in Gupshup at $5.62 million at the end of November, down from $6.09 million in October, according to a monthly disclosure. Fidelity had originally invested $16.2 million from its Blue Chip Growth Fund in Gupshup in mid-2021 in a funding round that valued the San Francisco-headquartered startup at $1.4 billion.According to Fidelitys calculation, the asset manager now values Gupshup at $486 million.Gupshup, which started its journey in India 17 years ago, raised $340 million in 2021 from a clutch of investors, including Tiger Global, Think Investments and Malabar Investments.Topics

Samsung Electronics said on Tuesday that it has become the largest shareholder of South Korea-based robotics maker Rainbow Robotics, increasing its stake from 14.7% to 35% for KRW 267 billion (about $181 billion).The electronics giant, which paid KRW 86.8 billion for the 14.7% stake in 2023, said it is acquiring the stake to bolster its robotics department and speed up development of humanoid robots. Rainbow Robotics will be integrated as a Samsung subsidiary, and the deal is expected to be completed in February 2025.The company also said it would establish a Future Robotics Office directly reporting to the chief executive officer. The deal also enables Rainbow Robotics to expand to overseas markets by leveraging Samsungs reach.Rainbow, founded in 2011 by researchers at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST) Center, has developed dual-arm mobile manipulators and autonomous mobile robots for applications in manufacturing and logistics. It has 86 employees.The founding member of Rainbow, Dr. Jun-ho Oh, the former largest shareholder of the robotics company before the deal and an honorary professor at KAIST, will stay on board to lead a new effort called the Future Robotics Office at Samsung, and serve as an advisor.Samsung is only the latest to enter the race to develop humanoid robots that can do more autonomously. Microsoft and OpenAI are planning to use their tech for a humanoid robot, and Tesla earlier this year showed off its own take on robots, Optimus. Nvidia, too, has plans to release a new line of compact computers for humanoid robots, called Jetson Thor, next year.In 2022, Samsung said that robotics, along with AI, 5G, and automotive electronics, would be a key part of its future initiatives, suggesting that potential acquisitions in these fields may be on the horizon.

Consulting generative AI to help you cope with your hangover and proffer a workable cure.gettyIn todays column, I examine whether you should openly trust generative AI and large language models (LLMs) to provide you with reasonable and safe cures for a hangover. This might at an initial glance seem like a lighthearted topic. Movies and TV shows often joke about hangovers and various zany cures or outlandish remedies that people come up with. The thing is that akin to people seeking and getting bad advice from fellow humans, the same can happen via AI.People might not realize an AI-recommended hangover cure could be unsafe. There is a tendency for people to blankly assume that AI is somehow utterly trustworthy and reliable. Sorry to report that such an assumption is false.Lets talk about it.This analysis of an innovative AI breakthrough is part of my ongoing Forbes column coverage on the latest in AI including identifying and explaining various impactful AI complexities (see the link here).Hangovers Beget TroublesId bet that youve either had a hangover at some point in your life or certainly knew someone who has incurred the wrath of overindulgence in alcohol. Entire blockbuster films recount the ins and outs of over-the-top hangovers. The reality of a hangover is that you typically feel rather rotten all over your body. Your mind is not spared either. Mushiness and fogginess of thought are hallmarks of a hangover.What kinds of symptoms go with a hangover?The usual culprits consist of a dry mouth, throbbing headache, aching fatigue, and potentially a bout of nausea. Under the hood, your body is often suffering from dehydration and inflammation. Stomach irritation can be there too. Your sleep is likely disrupted and leads to further aggravation of the symptoms arising from drinking to excess.MORE FOR YOUPeople joke about hangovers once theyve gotten past the painful stages. Sometimes a rough hangover is touted as a badge of honor. The problem is that there can be longer-lasting impacts due to a protracted hangover. Also, while in the stressful midst of a hangover, rarely is it a laughing matter.The shining star topic about hangovers is how to cure them.People are often desperate for a cure. They want to get past the hangover as quickly as possible. They want to take something that will speed up the recovery process and lessen the agony during the process. I know it sounds trite, but the usual retort is that you shouldnt have consumed as much as you did. Prevention is the best cure, as they say.Anyway, people will be people, and they are undoubtedly going to go all-in on drinking. The concerns about a hangover are left at the door while having a good time. The next day is the reward or punishment for your deeds.Hangover Cures Aplenty And Dangerous TooHangover cures are a dime a dozen.Friends will tell you that this remedy or that remedy is the best. Strangers will say the same. You can go online and find a veritable treasure trove of hangover cures. I hope that you realize those posted cures are not necessarily safe and sound. People post the darnedest things, including abundantly wrong and unsafe suggestions for dealing with hangovers. Make sure that if you do search online, end up at a reputable website that has suitable credentials of a medical nature.There is an alternative source to finding and learning about hangover cures.Whats that source?Generative AI and large language models come to mind.Here are five good reasons to consider using AI for coping with your hangover:(1) Convenience of using AI: Generative AI is generally accessible anytime and anywhere. There isnt a need to schedule an appointment or go someplace to use generative AI.(2) AI provides a range of suggestions: Generative AI is usually going to offer a wide range of remedies, from traditional advice like hydration and electrolyte restoration to alternative ideas based on cultural considerations.(3) AI readily customizes responses: Generative AI tailors suggestions based on what you tell the AI such as your symptoms and personal preferences.(4) AI can be informative: Generative AI can undertake an educational role such as explaining why certain remedies might work and identifying the scientific basis, which helps people make more informed decisions.(5) AI is usually free or low-cost: Most of the major generative AI apps such as ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Llama, and CoPilot are either free or available at a low cost.Using Generative AI For Hangover AssistanceI am betting that you would like to see an example of how generative AI comes into this realm. I went ahead and logged into ChatGPT by OpenAI to come up with an example for you. You might find of keen interest that ChatGPT garners a whopping 300 million weekly active users. That is a staggering amount of usage.I briefly conducted an additional cursory analysis via other major generative AI apps, such as Anthropic Claude, Google Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, and Meta Llama, and found their answers to be about the same as that of ChatGPT. Ill focus on ChatGPT but note that the other AI apps generated roughly similar responses.Lets pretend that I have a hangover (I dont right now, but there might be one in my future).My entered prompt: I have a hangover. Can you suggest any good cures?Generative AI response: Im sorry you are feeling this way. While Im not a doctor, I can share some general tips that might help alleviate hangover symptoms. Please remember that these are not medical treatments, and if you have any concerns or severe symptoms, its best to consult a healthcare professional.My entered prompt: Okay, got it, go ahead and share the tips with me, thanks.Generative AI response: Here are some remedies that you can try. Drink plenty of water to rehydrate. Adding an electrolyte solution or sports drink can help replenish lost minerals. Eating foods rich in carbohydrates, like toast or bananas, may help stabilize your blood sugar. Give your body time to recover by taking it easy and getting extra sleep. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen may help with headaches. Avoid acetaminophen (Tylenol) if you've been drinking heavily, as it can strain the liver.The above conversation with generative AI highlights several important facets.First, the AI warned me that the AI is not a medical doctor. Some users seem to think that AI is a medical expert and can provide the utmost medical advice. Not now. The AI makers even indicate in their licensing agreement that users are to not use generative AI for such advice. A whole slew of considered prohibited uses are likewise mentioned, see my coverage at the link here.Second, the remedies indicated are on par with the usual recommendations that you would find at any bona fide medical-oriented website. Thats a good sign that the AI has picked up the right kind of content. The problem is that generative AI doesnt have common sense and has no ready means to assess whether its data training led to useful and safe considerations.There is a solid chance that whatever the AI tells you could be wrong. Always, always, always make sure to double-check anything generative AI presents to you. On a different topic but related tangent, even lawyers have gotten caught off-guard by overly relying on AI to provide legal expertise when the AI was completely mistaken, see my analysis at the link here. Nobody should blindly trust generative AI. Period, end of story.Wariness Of Generative AI Is SensibleThe bottom line is that you can have a reasoned and slightly skeptical semblance of trust concerning advice from generative AI, but by gosh make sure to verify.Here are some crucial downsides underlying using AI for hangover advisement:(1) AI is not considered a medical expert: Generative AI might seem to showcase medical expertise but do not mistake this for the role of a human doctor. Be aware that generative AI can regrettably provide ineffective and even potentially harmful advice. For my coverage on the said-to-be discouraged or prohibited uses of generative AI, see the link here.(2) AI can repeat false information: During initial data training, generative AI might scan falsehoods posted on the Internet about hangover cures and then enmesh those into the pattern-matching of the AI. Thus, suggested remedies by the AI might be based on myths and completely unverified sources.(3) AI hallucinations can occur. Generative AI is known for producing confabulations or made-up groundless statements that appear to be truthful. These are known as AI hallucinations, see my coverage at the link here. There is a solid chance that a cure urged by AI could reflect an unfortunate AI hallucination.(4) AI as an adverse distractor: People might overly rely on generative AI and opt to delay going to see a medical professional. This could lead to a dangerous outcome that could have been detected and remedied earlier.(5) AI can woefully miss the mark: Generative AI is typically data-trained across the board and provides broad advice rather than properly specific advice. Suggestions made by the AI might not account for personal factors such as allergies, existing health conditions, or medications that could interact with suggested remedies.Digging Deeper With AI On HangoversWhenever you use generative AI, try to think of the AI as a conversational partner. The idea is that you are carrying on an interactive dialogue with AI. Some people do a one-and-done angle whereby they ask a question, get an answer, and do not undertake a dialogue with the AI about the matter at hand. That is a shortchanging of what AI can more fully provide. See my explanation about how to get more out of generative AI conversationally, at the link here.To illustrate the value of engaging in a dialogue, lets continue my quest to get hangover advice.My entered prompt: Those tips about hangover cures were handy. One symptom that I have is that I feel quite nauseous. Is there anything I can specifically do about that?Generative AI response: For nausea, ginger is a popular natural remedy. You can try sipping ginger tea or chewing on a small piece of fresh ginger. Peppermint tea might also help, as its known for its calming effects on the stomach. If you have access to plain crackers or dry toast, eating a little can settle your stomach as well. However, if the nausea persists or worsens, its a good idea to reach out to a healthcare professional. Let me know if you need more suggestions!My entered prompt: I will try sipping ginger tea and let you know how it goes.Notice that I am doing an entire conversation with generative AI. In this case, I indicated that I have nausea. The AI responded with suggestions to overcome or abate the nausea.Should I immediately believe the recommendation about ginger tea or peppermint tea? Nope. The best bet is to double-check. I did so and found that this is common practice.Dreaded AI Hallucinations Can OccurI mentioned in my earlier points that generative AI can encounter so-called AI hallucinations. I disfavor the catchphrase because it tends to anthropomorphize AI and implies that AI has human-like hallucinations. False. Anyway, the phrase has garnered stickiness, and we are stuck with it.The upshot of potential AI confabulations is that they can look as though they are reputable even though they are taking you down a foul path.Heres an example in the case of hangover cures:My entered prompt: I drank too much last night. Whats a good hangover cure?Generative AI response: Sorry to hear that! Hangovers can be tough. I can provide some common remedies, but please keep in mind Im not a doctor. Try drinking blueberry vinegar tea. Also, consider eating something light. Get some rest. Let me know if youd like other ideas!My entered prompt: What is blueberry vinegar tea? Ive never heard of that.Generative AI response: Its a remedy that helps with hangovers by providing antioxidants and balancing your stomach acidity. However, Ill admit it might not be widely recognized or scientifically validated.The recommended use of blueberry vinegar tea is groundless made-up confabulation by the AI. Do you see how the AI portrayed the remedy as being aboveboard? Thats the tough trouble with AI hallucinations. They look right but can be adverse or possibly even deadly.Be on the watch.Double Checking Other Questioned AdviceThere is a twist to the potential of getting sour advice about hangover cures.Suppose a fellow human gives you suspicious advice. They might be well-intentioned. They might firmly believe in their heart that their advice is perfect. Where might you turn to assess the advice?One possibility would be to ask generative AI to assess the advice for you.Here we go.My entered prompt: A person told me that a good hangover cure involves bathing in tomato juice. What do you think of that remedy?Generative AI response: Bathing in tomato juice is not a scientifically supported remedy for hangovers. This idea might stem from popular culture or misconceptions, such as the belief that it can neutralize odors or toxins, but theres no evidence that soaking in tomato juice helps alleviate hangover symptoms. Let me know if you would like more detail.My entered prompt: The person seemed convinced that the cure would work. What else can you tell me that I can then tell him why he is wrong about his cure.Generative AI response: Here are additional details. Hangover symptoms are principally internal and result from dehydration, low blood sugar, and the buildup of alcohol byproducts like acetaldehyde. These issues cannot be resolved by topical treatments like bathing in tomato juice. While tomatoes are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, these benefits come from eating or drinking them, not from applying them to your skin.My entered prompt: Why is the person so adamant about the alleged cure?Generative AI response: There are many reasons that the person might believe in their claimed cure. While bathing in tomato juice is unlikely to harm you, it might be messy, expensive, and not particularly helpful. If someone enjoys this as a ritual or believes it helps, the placebo effect could play a role but scientifically, its better to stick to proven remedies.As noted, generative AI was doubtful that the advice was any good. If you were already worried about the advice, this probably helps to cement your concerns. And if you didnt have any qualms at the get-go, this likely opens your eyes.AI Hangover Cures Are Trust But VerifyAs a recap, generative AI offers a handy means of identifying and assessing hangover cures. Do not fall for the false assumption that generative AI is always correct or that it is a medical expert. Use generative AI cautiously. Double-check what the AI says. Likewise, use generative AI to double-check with others tell you.I know it wont do much good to say that you ought to drink in moderation and seek to avoid hangovers. People that know, know. There is a popular saying that if you drink mindfully, you can live fully. Others just figure theyll deal with a hangover when it happens.A final remark for now.William Shakespeare famously stated: "I drink to the general joy of the whole table." If you drink, and if you have a hangover, perhaps AI can bring some joy back into your existence by providing safe hangover cures. Just verify that this is the case, thanks.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 16: Damon Jackson of the United States of America announces his ... [+] retirement after a loss to Jim Miller of the United States of America in a middleweight fight during the UFC 309 event at Madison Square Garden on November 16, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC)Zuffa LLCUFC veteran Damon Jackson thought he was done competing in the UFC following his first-round submission loss to Jim Miller at UFC 309 in Madison Square Garden in November. However, the 36-year-old veteran with a 23-8-1 record in MMA and a 6-6-1 mark in the UFC has reversed course.NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 16: Damon Jackson of the United States of America announces his ... [+] retirement after a loss to Jim Miller of the United States of America in a middleweight fight during the UFC 309 event at Madison Square Garden on November 16, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC)Zuffa LLCJackson spoke with MMA Junkie about his decision to change his mind.Im not done, man Im really not, Jackson told MMA Junkie Radio. Ive been in the gym doing two- and three-a-days just like normal. Im still in it 100 percent, its just mentally I really checked out that night and it was an overload, really. But Im not done. I just need to figure out the path to what I want to do next. But Im not done fighting, for sure.The MSG card is a big deal for every fighter fortunate enough to be involved. It seems Jackson was raring to go while also dealing with some outside issues leading up to the fight.It was a very emotional night, Jackson said. Ive had a lot going on this past two or three years that I havent really shared with anyone. I kind of kept it to myself, and Ive just had a lot going on. It was very frustrating to go out there and be on that stage and to go out there and lose that way, a way that Ive prided myself in with my jiu-jitsu, with my wrestling. To go out there and take a loss like that, it was just really frustrating so surprising and so shocking. I couldnt even really comprehend the fact that I just lost.MORE FOR YOUJackson, who last won in April via split decision over Anthony Hernandez, still has three fights left on his UFC contract. According to Jackson, he has spoken with UFC matchmaker Sean Shelby and left the conversation with the understanding that he would be able to fight out his contract.We know things can change: for better or for worse.At this point, Jackson could be a good opponent for someone like Tony Ferguson, if the UFC allows El Cucuy to fight again. Jackson has competed a lot at featherweight, though his loss to Miller came at lightweight. If hes able to make 145 pounds again, perhaps a matchup with Cub Swanson would make sense.If not Ferguson or Swanson, Jackson may draw an up-and-coming fighter who needs a test as they move toward a ranking. During Jacksons career, he has fought for LFA, Bellator, the UFC, and the Professional Fighters League.During Jacksons 13-fight run in the UFC, he has locked horns with some of the best in the division. In addition to Miller, Jackson has faced Mirsad Bektic, Ilia Topuria, Charles Rosa, Dan Ige, Yancy Medeiros, and Billy Quarantillo.Unfortunately for Jackson, his record is 2-5 in those seven fights. While Jackson seemingly wants to remain competitive, it may be difficult to find three solid opponents for him to finish his contract.

What's Up: January 2025 Skywatching Tips from NASANASA has just shared its recommendations on what to look out for in the night sky during the first month of 2025.Recommended VideosThe space agency kicks off with the Quadrantid meteor shower, which peaks on Friday, January 3. This is a moderate meteor shower that can deliver up to 30 meteors an hour. The best time to look will be the several hours before dawn, so youll need to get up early. The viewing conditions are looking good, too, as therell be no interference from moonlight. Just hope that you get clear skies, though! For the best viewing experience, try to find a location away from city lights and other forms of light pollution. This is a shower best seen from the Northern Hemisphere, and observers in the Northwest and Pacific region will likely have the best viewing this year, NASA said.Please enable Javascript to view this contentOn the evening of Monday, January 13, skywatchers in the continental U.S. and Eastern Canada will be able to see the moon appearing to pass in front of Mars. Times vary by location, so check your favorite skywatching app for details, NASA advises.RelatedFurther into the month, on January 17/18, Venus and Saturn will appear a mere fingers width apart, known as a planetary conjunction. You can easily tell which is which as Venus appears much brighter than Saturn.There are a couple of events that will be viewable throughout the month, too. In the first couple of hours after dark, youll be able to see Venus and Saturn in the southwest, Jupiter high overhead, and Mars in the east. Its not every year that youre able to see four bright planets at the same time so be sure to get a glimpse when you get a clear night. Uranus and Neptune are there too, but a telescope is needed to see them, NASA said.All through January, Mars will be directly opposite the sun from Earth, with its salmon-pink hue shining brightly during the night. Youll find Mars in the east as night falls, and in the southwest at dawn.Editors Recommendations

Business Insider has interviewed dozens of people who've lost weight.We rounded up some of their top, practical tips to make fat loss simpler.High-protein diets and calorie deficits are key strategies for successful weight loss.Weight loss is, on the face of it, simple. If you are in a calorie deficit consuming less energy than you're burning you will lose weight.The reality is much more complicated. Genetics play a role, as do underlying health conditions. For many, new habits only get them so far if they don't change their mindset.Business Insider has interviewed dozens of people who've lost significant amounts of weight, and gathered their best advice.Join a sports team Alaias Bertrand When Alaias Bertrand, a marketer and content creator in Florida, joined a sprint team, the rigorous training schedule helped her lose 75 pounds without really trying.That said, while exercise does contribute to overall calorie burn, it makes up less of our overall daily energy expenditure than most people think.Eat from a smaller plateBertrand told BI that a smaller plate helped her cut portion sizes and reach a calorie deficit."That was something that was very doable for me. It was very actionable because all I have to do is grab a smaller plate," she said.Eating smaller portions also helped Stephen McKenna, a former school principal, lose 145 pounds.Walk for 10 minutes Leah Mancuso lost 200 pounds. Quianna Marie/Tara Dunn McKenna started by aiming to walk for 10 minutes a day, adding five minutes each week to help him lose weight. He now makes sure to get 7,000 steps a day.Leah Mancuso took a similar approach: Mancuso, a photographer, told BI she started by walking on the spot at home or in her backyard for 10 minutes at a time.It kick-started changes that would see her lose 200 pounds: Mancuso now walks around 8,000 steps a day.Eat one nutritious food a dayIf the idea of overhauling your whole diet is overwhelming, start small. Mancuso started by trying to eat one nutritious food, such as eggs, each day.Get more proteinEating more protein is helpful for shedding fat because it keeps you feeling full, takes more energy to digest than carbs or fat, and helps your muscles recover after workouts.Many of the people BI interviewed, such as Alec Kneberg and Andrea Pence, cited high-protein diets as key to their weight loss success.Kneberg, a bank worker, lost fat while building muscle, and Pence, a mom of two, lost 140 pounds over two years.Hit a calorie deficit but don't over-restrictA calorie deficit is the only way to lose weight without surgery, and counting calories can be a helpful tool (albeit not one that's right for everyone).Maria Kirkeland, who lost 159 pounds, found that calorie counting actually helped her make sure she was eating enough while still losing weight, which helped her stick with it. Maria Kirkeland at the start of her weight loss journey, and in the summer of 2024. Marie Kirkeland "Before, when I'd tried to lose weight, I'd done more guesswork, and I think that led me to undereat, which would then lead me to break because I got so hungry," said Kirkeland, a teacher.Find lower-calorie swapsLower-calorie versions of his favorite foods helped Kneberg stick to his calorie deficit, he said. Bethany Dobson creates lower-calorie, high protein meals. Georgie Glass Bethany Dobson, a fat loss coach and personal trainer who lost 44 pounds, had a similar experience. Coming up with lower-calorie versions of her favorite meals helped her stay on track.Eat high-volume foodsHigh-volume foods are those that take up a lot of space on your plate (and in your stomach) for relatively few calories, helping you stay full while in a calorie deficit. Focusing on high-volume foods helped Benji Xavier lose 100 pounds.Meal prepXavier, a content creator, also meal-prepped to help him stay on track with his nutrition and reduce the chances of him opting for fast food.Taking time on Sundays to make meals for the week ahead meant he could eat healthily even when he was too busy to cook. Benji Xavier lost 100 lbs when he ditched fast food and restrictive diets. Benji Xavier Swapping takeout for a healthy, portion-controlled meal delivery service, combined with walking, also helped Megan Tjelle, a nurse, lose 55 pounds.Strength trainStrength training has many longevity benefits and also helps you maintain muscle mass while losing fat. Many people BI interviewed, including Kirkeland and Tjelle, did strength training, even if they started off just walking. Megan Tjelle before (left) and after her 105-pounds weight loss. Megan Tjelle Visualize a healthy lifestyleFor Mae Suzuki, a YouTuber, working on her mindset was the key to breaking free from a binge-restrict cycle.When she started visualizing her dream self and following the habits she imagined she would have, she lost 40 pounds over six months.

Misty Miller, 65, regretted retiring early because she thought she was well off.Miller found retirement isolating and financially challenging, so she returned to work.This story is part of an ongoing series on older Americans' regrets.Misty Miller submitted her retirement paperwork seven years ago with over $500,000 saved. A week later, she asked for her job back.Miller, 65, was a legal secretary in the private sector before working her way up to become a staff services manager for the California Housing Finance Agency. She paid off her mortgage and put as much money as possible into her 401(k). When she was in her late 50s, she determined she could retire early and live off her over $3,000 monthly pension checks.However, she said retirement was "the biggest mistake" of her life. She said she overspent, and work gave her social connections and a purpose that she missed. She returned to work shortly after."I'm just terrified that within two or three years into retirement, I'll be broke again, that my money won't last, and I'm going to live until 100 years old," Miller said. "I lived through spiraling inflation in the 1970s. I'm just terrified of inflation."We want to hear from you. Are you an older American with any life regrets you'd be comfortable sharing with a reporter? Please fill out this .Miller is one of more than 3,800 older Americans between the ages of 48 and 96 who have shared their biggest life regrets with Business Insider since September. Common regrets include not saving enough for retirement, taking Social Security too early, not prioritizing education, or not preparing financially for an unexpected medical diagnosis.Living frugally and working hardMiller was born to upper-middle-class parents, and her father ran a law practice, she said. Her parents wanted her to major in business in college and become a CPA, though she wanted to become a writer. She pursued an English degreeand, after college,livedpaycheck to paycheckfor a few years while working miscellaneous part-time jobs. She took out about $4,100 in student loans, which she paid off by the time she was 28. Misty Miller retired at 58 but ended up regretting it. Misty Miller She worked as a legal secretary for 11 years and was a claims-litigation paralegal for an insurance company, working as many as 60 hours a week. She wanted the more regular hours and benefits that can come with a public-sector job. She was hired by the California Housing Finance Agency, where she was promoted three times.While working, Miller set aside much of her paycheck for retirement. After years of frugal living, she had enough money to buy a house in Sacramento for $93,500 in 1990; 28 years later, she sold it for about $350,000. She also began investing seriously in the stock market in the 1990s something she wishes she'd started doing earlier.By 2017, she had well over $500,000 in her retirement accounts. "This is when I thought, I am rich. I could retire," Miller said. "I also thought that I could collect a check every month from my 401(k) and be fine."During her career, she said she was so focused on money that she missed out on family time. She said she rarely visited family or called important people in her life. She said her nieces and nephews grew up not knowing her, and she regrets not spending some of her paychecks on trips to see relatives, especially since she doesn't have children.'House rich and cash poor'Miller retired at 58, thinking she'd be set financially and emotionally. Before retiring, she drove a 26-year-old car, colored her own hair, and brought lunch to work every day. Miller said her finances would have been fine if she continued this frugal lifestyle into retirement. Her husband also held a high-paying job, though they kept their finances separate.But two months after she retired in 2017, she said she started to overspend, especially on real estate. She withdrew much of her 401(k) that year to afford a $110,000 down payment on a $515,000 beach house in Sonoma County, plus $57,000 for a central heating system. She said she paid about $90,000 in taxes on that withdrawal.She sold the Sacramento home, but Miller said she disliked the beach house because of the cold weather and wanted to move back. In 2019, she purchased a 2,000-square-foot, four-bedroom house about twice the size of her first Sacramento home for $488,000 in a Sacramento suburb and sold the beach house in 2020 for $720,000. However, she said the property tax on her current home is five times as high as the first one."I'm house rich and cash poor, and so I had to go back to work for the state," Miller said, adding she didn't speak to a financial advisor about a long-term plan. "The master plan just didn't work out for me."Returning to the officeMiller got a job at a local newspaper by the beach house that paid $19 an hour. She looked for other employment opportunities but suspected many employers wanted to hire younger talent."It's challenging to get a job when you're in your 60s," Miller said. "I tried my best to look as young as possible."In 2019, she got a job at the California Department of Consumer Affairs and then switched to the Secretary of State's office. She now works as a staff services manager at the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation.Miller now has about $450,000 saved. Now that she's working again, she plans to invest in her Roth 401(k) and put all her money into an S&P index fund, which she won't cash out early. She also hopes to rekindle her relationships with family and prioritize her friends."I'm back to saving money again, and I plan to never retire," Miller said, adding she wants to keep her private health insurance instead of going on Medicare. "It was a huge mistake to just think that I was rich and spend all that money just like that."