These tiny beads could have been stitched onto clothing or attached to jewellery
Intriguing new discoveries in a mediaeval cemetery in Wales have brought archaeologists closer to solving the mystery surrounding the women buried there.
They’ve found what appears to be a small building and have unearthed domestic and decorative artefacts, including exquisite coloured glass beads.
So far 58 skeletons, dating to the 6th or 7th century, have been uncovered at the site. What’s unusual is that nearly all belonged to women.
The new finds add to growing evidence that the burial ground was part of an early female religious community.
Kevin Church/BBC News
The 1,500-year-old skeletons are intact and well preserved
For the last four years, archaeologists have been excavating the site in the grounds of Fonmon Castle, close to the end of the runway at Cardiff Airport.
The skeletons are buried in shallow graves cut into the limestone bedrock. While their bones and teeth show they lived hard lives, objects found amongst the graves suggest wealth and luxury.
The team have been scratching their heads trying to work out who these women were.
Now the latest dig has provided a major clue: the outline of what could possibly be a small building.
“It’s producing fragments of building stone, so it might be structural. We might be thinking of a small shrine or a chapel,” says Dr Andy Seaman, from Cardiff University, who is leading the dig.
Graves are clustered around the possible building, which is highlighted in pink
The potential building is located in the centre of the cemetery and graves are clustered around it. It seems that people wanted to be buried as close to this feature as possible.
So close, in fact, says Cardiff University archaeologist Tudur Davies, that some of these graves have several people in them.
“It’s a highly desired location for people to be buried in,” he says.
“Repeatedly, archaeologists have buried two, three, or four individuals in the same spot.” Putting bodies in the same place and moving those still there to one side appears to be more accepted.
Items include a copper brooch, a decorated bone pin and a comb carved from antlers.
The objects have been taken to Cardiff University’s lab. Conservator Clare Emerson is painstakingly removing the dirt on the dig from an ornate copper brooch.
“We’d have to do some more analysis, but it’s probably bronze,” she says. “Also we think it was possibly gilded, which would be a coating of gold over the top.”
The ends, she explains, were covered in green enamel.
“This would have been a very decorative brooch. I think it’s a very special find for the site.”
Alongside this piece of mediaeval bling, the team have also unearthed a pin made from bone with a detailed pattern and a comb intricately carved from antler.
And there are some exquisite, multicoloured glass beads. Measuring about 3mm across, each one is a miniature delight. They were possibly stitched onto clothing or attached to jewellery.
Kevin Church/BBC News
Fragments of glassware were found among the graves
But the domestic items found at the site tell us a lot too.
“We have a quern stone for grinding flour for bread. We’ve got pottery and glass for eating and drinking,” says Dr Andy Seaman.
“It’s clearly not just a place for the dead. There’s a living community here as well.”
He thinks that the community was enclosed, living right next door to the cemetery, separated from the rest of society.
Kevin Church/BBC News
Little is known about early religious communities from this area
The pieces of this mediaeval puzzle are starting to come together. But there are still some questions.
The remains of a few men have been found – who were they? And some children, too – were they related to any of the women?
And while most of the people at the cemetery were buried with excellent care, two women were tossed in a ditch – one with her hands and feet tied. What had they done to deserve that?
Kevin Church/BBC News
The excavations will continue at the site in 2026
The team is now trying to work out whether this could be an example of very early Christianity.
“It’s a period where the history is not yet written,” says Dr Seaman.
“We don’t really understand early church sites… how they functioned, what they looked like, or how they were organised.
“We have a good understanding of later periods, but this very formative period of history is not well understood.” So it’s a really exciting opportunity.”
Edward was one of the first children in England to receive the gene therapy Zolgensma through the NHS.
A five-year-old boy who received the world’s most expensive drug as a baby has made “incredible progress” and can walk independently, his mother said.
Edward, from Colchester, has spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), which means he lacks a protein vital for muscle development.
He was one of the first children in England to be given the gene therapy Zolgensma, which costs £1.79m for the one-off treatment, through the NHS in 2021.
Edward is full of life and a real character, according to his mum
About 65 babies are born with SMA in England each year. It causes muscle weakness and affects movement and breathing, meaning most babies do not live past the age of two without intervention.
playful boy who was “full of life”
Megan said Edward had gone from being a lethargic baby to a cheeky, playful boy who was “full of life” and “a real character.”
He might need to use a wheelchair for the rest of his life, but she added, “It does not matter, as long as he is happy. We are so proud of him.”
Contributed
Edward can now walk 20 to 30 steps independently
“Edward had to have a double hip replacement in October and he’s only just getting back on his feet, but in general he is doing so well.
“He is learning to swim; he can float on his own, which is challenging for children with SMA because they don’t have natural buoyancy.
“This summer, he jumped off a boat into the sea and he went on a jet ski. He’s a very sweet, loveable little guy.”
Edward has just started school, where he has made lots of friends, and he “does everything an ordinary five-year-old boy does.”
“We just didn’t think that was possible. We didn’t know what quality of life he would have,” she said.
Various doctors and medical professionals visited him whenever he was in hospital, even when they were not treating him, because they were amazed by his progress, she added.
Edward received the gene therapy four years ago and it has transformed his life.
The family moved to London so Edward can have physiotherapy up to five times a week.
Ms Willis gave up her job in event management to care full-time for Edward.
It was not certain he would receive the drug on the NHS, so she started a fundraising campaign and has used the money to pay for specialist physio and equipment, to which she credits his progress.
“We raised £170,000 over five years, but nearly all of that money has been spent.” She stated that the money has served a significant purpose.
“It has saved our family from worrying about money.” We’re fundraising again now because all of the progress he has made has been due to private care.”
Contributed
Edward has made huge progress due to the private physiotherapy the family has been able to fund via a fundraising page
Zolgensma is thought to be the most expensive drug in the world, though NHS England said it had negotiated an undisclosed discount on its £1.79m list price.
Edward, who was diagnosed at two months old, was receiving another drug called Spinraza, which involves regular spinal injections for life, compared to a one-off injection of Zolgensma.
Because it is such a new drug, long-term outcomes are not known, but Megan said she believed this generation of babies with SMA would be the first to reach adulthood.
Contributed
Edward started school this year and had made lots of friends, his mum said
Prof. James Palmer, medical director for specialised commissioning at NHS England, said, “It is a huge pleasure to see the remarkable benefits that this innovative gene therapy has provided for Edward since he was treated four years ago.”
“Edward is one of more than 150 children with SMA to benefit from this one-shot treatment, which has had a giant impact on their lives, and I’m optimistic that many more conditions like SMA will also become treatable over the coming years as medical advances continue at pace.”
Wide demonstrations erupted as Iran’s deteriorating economy sparked unrest in the Islamic republic’s rural provinces on Thursday, resulting in at least six deaths in the first clashes between security forces and protesters, officials said.
The deaths could mark the beginning of a tough response by Iran’s theocracy to the demonstrations, which have slowed in the capital Tehran but have spread elsewhere.
One death on Wednesday and five on Thursday occurred in three cities primarily home to Iran’s Lur ethnic group.
Protests in Iran became largest since the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in 2022. Nationwide demonstrations began over police custody.
However, demonstrations remain localised and less intense than those surrounding the death of Amini, who was detained for not wearing a hijab or headscarf as authorities preferred.
The country’s leaders are still reeling after Israel launched a 12-day war against the country in June. The US also bombed Iranian nuclear sites during the war.
“The people of Iran want freedom. They have suffered for too long at the hands of the Ayatollahs,” US Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz said in a statement. post on X earlier this week.
He said, “We stand with Iranians in the streets of Tehran and across the country as they protest a fundamentalist regime that has given them nothing but economic recession and war.”
Protesters march in downtown Tehran, Iran, on December 29, 2025.
Fars News Agency via AP
The most intense violence occurred in Azna, a city in Iran’s Lorestan province, about 185 miles southwest of Tehran.
There, online videos reportedly showed objects on the street burning and gunshots echoing as people shouted, “Shameless! Shameless!”
The semi-official Fars news agency reported the deaths of three people.
Other media, including pro-reform outlets, cited Fars for reports, while state-run media did not fully acknowledge the violence there or elsewhere.
Uncertainty surrounded the lack of additional reporting on the unrest, but in 2022, journalists faced arrest for their reporting.
Online video captured protesters gathering on a street in Lordegan, a city in Iran’s Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province, while gunshots echoed in the background.
The footage matches known features from Lordeghan, about 290 miles south of Tehran.
The Abdurrahman Boroumand Centre for Human Rights in Iran, based in Washington, confirmed the death of two protesters there. The report also featured a still image of an Iranian police officer, clad in body armour and wielding a gun.
In 2019, the area around Loredan saw widespread protests, which reportedly damaged government buildings.
This followed a report indicating that people in the area had contracted HIV from contaminated needles used at a local healthcare clinic.
A 21-year-old volunteer from the Basij force of the paramilitary Revolutionary Guard reportedly died during a separate demonstration on Wednesday night.
The state-run IRNA news agency reported the guard member’s death but did not provide details.
Student News Network, an Iranian news agency considered close to the Basij, directly blamed protesters for the death of the Guard member, citing comments by Saeed Pourali, the deputy governor of Lorestan province.
“The Guard member was martyred at the hands of rioters during protests in this city to protect public order,” he reportedly said. He reported that 13 other Basij members and police officers sustained injuries.
“The protests that have taken place are due to economic pressures, inflation, and currency fluctuations, and they are an expression of livelihood concerns,” Pourali said. “
The voices of citizens must be heard carefully and tactfully, but people must not be pressured into their demands by profit-seeking individuals.”
The protest took place in the city of Kouhdasht, 250 miles southwest of Tehran. Local prosecutor Kazem Nazari said 20 people had been arrested following the protests and peace had returned to the city, the judiciary’s Mizan news agency reported.
Iran’s civilian government, led by reformist President Massoud Pezeshkian, has been trying to signal that it is willing to negotiate with protesters.
However, Pezeshkian admitted he could not do much, as Iran’s rial currency has depreciated sharply, with $1 now worth about 1.4 million rials.
Meanwhile, state television separately reported the arrest of seven people, including five it said were monarchists and two others it said were linked to European-based groups.
State TV also said that in another operation, security forces seized 100 smuggled pistols, without elaborating.
Iran’s theocracy declared a public holiday across much of the country on Wednesday to draw people out of the capital for the long weekend, citing cold weather.
The era of complete anonymity in cryptocurrency transactions is rapidly closing. Governments around the world are implementing stringent new regulations, forcing crypto users to share account details with tax officials. The global shift aims to close the “tax gap” by reporting and taxing digital asset transactions like any other investment.
Why This is Happening Now
For years, cryptocurrency markets operated with a level of privacy that traditional finance does not allow. This led to concerns about tax evasion, money laundering, and a lack of investor protection. In response, major economies have introduced new reporting frameworks, fundamentally changing the relationship between crypto holders and tax authorities.
The most significant development is the implementation of the Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF) by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). This global standard, along with existing rules like the Common Reporting Standard (CRS), mandates that crypto exchanges and other Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) automatically collect and report client information to tax authorities.
Why This is Happening Now
For years, cryptocurrency markets operated with a level of privacy that traditional finance does not allow. This led to concerns about tax evasion, money laundering, and a lack of investor protection. In response, major economies have introduced new reporting frameworks, fundamentally changing the relationship between crypto holders and tax authorities.
The most significant development is the implementation of the Cryptoasset Reporting Framework (CARF) by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). This global standard, along with existing rules like the Common Reporting Standard (CRS), mandates that crypto exchanges and other Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) automatically collect and report client information to tax authorities.
What Information Must Be Shared?
Under these new rules, the onus is primarily on the crypto service providers, but the data is about their users. The details that crypto users are forced to share account details with tax officials through their exchanges include:
Personal Identification: Name, address, date of birth, and taxpayer identification number.
Account Information: Wallet addresses and account numbers associated with the exchange.
Financial Activity: Gross proceeds from crypto sales or exchanges, and in many cases, the fair market value of holdings at year-end.
This information is then automatically exchanged between jurisdictions, meaning your local tax agency could receive data from an exchange based overseas.
The Implications for Crypto Investors
Increased Tax Compliance: Tax authorities now have the data to cross-check the information you report on your tax returns. Underreporting income from crypto trading, staking, or mining is becoming much riskier.
Global Reach: These are international standards. Even if you use a foreign-based exchange, your data is likely to be shared with your home country’s revenue service.
No More “Flying Under the Radar”: The common misconception that crypto profits are invisible to tax authorities is now obsolete.
Steps Every Crypto User Should Take
Understand Your Tax Obligations: Cryptocurrency is typically treated as property (like stocks) for tax purposes. Selling, trading, or spending it can trigger a taxable capital gain or loss.
Keep Impeccable Records: Maintain detailed records of all your transactions, including dates, amounts, values in your local currency at the time of the transaction, and the purpose (buy, sell, trade, etc.).
Report Accurately: Use your records to accurately report all taxable events on your annual tax return. Consider using crypto tax software to aggregate data from different wallets and exchanges.
Seek Professional Advice: If you have a complex trading history or are unsure of the rules, consult a tax professional who specialises in cryptocurrency.
The Bottom Line
The regulatory landscape has fundamentally changed. Crypto users are forced to share account details with tax officials, not as a one-off measure, but as a permanent feature of the global financial system. While this may feel intrusive to proponents of crypto’s decentralised ethos, it represents a major step towards the formal integration of digital assets into a regulated economy.
Proactivity is key. By understanding the rules, maintaining clean records, and reporting accurately, you can navigate this new era of crypto transparency and avoid significant penalties.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or tax advice. Please consult a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation. specific to your situation.
What Information Must Be Shared?
Under these new rules, the onus is primarily on the crypto service providers, but the data is about their users. Crypto users are required to share their account details with tax officials through their exchanges, which include the following information:
Personal Identification: Name, address, date of birth, and taxpayer identification number.
Account Information: Wallet addresses and account numbers associated with the exchange.
Financial Activity: Gross proceeds from crypto sales or exchanges, and often, the fair market value of holdings at year-end.
This information is then automatically exchanged between jurisdictions, meaning your local tax agency could receive data from an exchange based overseas.
The Implications for Crypto Investors
Increased Tax Compliance: Tax authorities now have the data to cross-check the information you report on your tax returns. Underreporting income from crypto trading, staking, or mining is becoming much riskier.
Global Reach: These are international standards. Your home country’s revenue service is likely to share your data, even if you use a foreign-based exchange.
No More “Flying Under the Radar”: The common misconception that crypto profits are invisible to tax authorities is now obsolete.
Steps Every Crypto User Should Take
Understand Your Tax Obligations: Cryptocurrency is typically treated as property (like stocks) for tax purposes. Selling, trading, or spending it can trigger a taxable capital gain or loss.
Keep Impeccable Records: Maintain detailed records of all your transactions, including dates, amounts, values in your local currency at the time of the transaction, and the purpose (buy, sell, trade, etc.).
Report Accurately: Use your records to precisely report all taxable events on your annual tax return. Consider using crypto tax software to aggregate data from different wallets and exchanges.
Seek Professional Advice: If you have a complex trading history or are unsure of the rules, consult a tax professional who specialises in cryptocurrency.
The Bottom Line
The regulatory landscape has fundamentally changed. Crypto users are forced to share account details with tax officials, not as a one-off measure, but as a permanent feature of the global financial system. While this may feel intrusive to proponents of crypto’s decentralised ethos, it represents a major step towards the formal integration of digital assets into a regulated economy.
Proactivity is key. By understanding the rules, maintaining clean records, and reporting accurately, you can navigate this new era of crypto transparency and avoid significant penalties.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or tax advice. Please consult a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.
Regular meet-ups with children at a Portadown primary school have provided “a lifeline” for some elderly residents of nearby retirement housing.
A scheme that started four years ago brings Primary Two pupils at Bocombra Primary School together with elderly residents living in apartments at Quarry Gardens.
The five- and six-year-olds meet with their “friends” who live next door twice a term, where they bake, do crafts, work outdoors in the garden and give Christmas gifts.
It ends with a parent assembly where they discuss their friendships and share photos of their time together.
‘Some of the ladies would wave to the children.’
Iris Thompson was at the food station during the meet-up.
The class teacher, Stacey Nesbitt, was responsible for beginning the scheme.
“The fence in some of the apartments backs onto the school and years ago some of the ladies put small decorations and windmills along their gardens for the children to look at,” she said.
“You would have often seen the ladies waving to the children when they were playing in the playground.
“If a ball was thrown, they would throw it back, and so we thought it would be lovely to ask the ladies over and have a relationship with them.”
Audrey Wright expressed her excitement for the meet-ups, noting that her home’s close proximity to the school ensures her constant presence.
“When they kick the ball over, they all wave to get my attention. I go out and throw it back and there is a crowd of them and they will say, ‘Hooray for Lola’s granny’,” she said.
“Sometimes I’m up and down like a yo-yo. But it’s brilliant and very important for me. They’re little individuals and sometimes they really make you laugh.”
The kids and adults enjoy the meet-ups.
The importance of intergenerational connection seems to be paying off, as five-year-old Evan said he was drawing hearts on his paper cracker “for my granny who dropped me off and I love her.”
If you’re starting a GLP-1 medication or have recently begun treatment, you’re probably wondering what to expect.
Maybe you’ve heard stories about intense nausea or you’re currently having digestive issues and wondering if what you’re feeling is normal. Here’s the reality:
Many people do experience side effects, particularly in the early weeks, and while these symptoms are typically temporary, they can range from mildly uncomfortable to genuinely disruptive to your daily life.
Understanding what’s normal and what’s not can help you navigate this adjustment period with confidence. Here are some of the most common GLP-1 side effects and symptoms, what to expect, and why they happen.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea is one of the most common side effects people experience when starting a GLP-1 medication.
You might feel queasy, lose your appetite, or feel uncomfortably full after eating much less than usual. Some people occasionally experience vomiting, particularly early in treatment as the body adjusts to the medication.
The intensity of nausea is usually highest during the beginning of treatment or when the dose increases.
Many people observe that eating smaller portions and avoiding heavy, high-fat meals helps reduce discomfort during this adjustment period.
“Feeling nauseous and full can be a really uncomfortable experience. Only you can decide what feels tolerable.
but it’s important to know that these side effects are pretty short-lived,” says Stephanie Saletta, a dietitian with MyFitnessPal. “Your body typically adapts after you’re done escalating your dose.”
While these side effects often resolve with time, that doesn’t make them any less real or uncomfortable in the moment.
Some people consider the nausea manageable with dietary adjustments; others may need their healthcare provider to slow down the dose escalation or explore additional support strategies.
Why This Happens
GLP-1 medications slow gastric emptying. Translation? Food stays in your stomach longer before moving into your intestines.
This delayed emptying is part of how these medications reduce appetite and support weight management, but it can cause that over-full, nauseous feeling as your body adjusts to the change.
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Constipation
Constipation is another very common side effect, affecting a significant number of people taking GLP-1s. You might notice less frequent bowel movements or difficulty passing stools.
This digestive change is typically most noticeable in the first month but can persist for longer. Staying well-hydrated and maintaining adequate fibre intake can help manage constipation.
Some people find that their bowel habits never quite return to their pre-medication pattern, but they settle into a new, manageable routine.
Why This Happens
Because GLP-1 medications slow digestion overall, food moves through your entire digestive system more slowly.
This slower transit time naturally leads to less frequent bowel movements and can cause constipation.
Diarrhea
While constipation is more common, some people experience the opposite. Diarrhoea or loose stools can happen, especially if you’ve made significant changes to your diet or are eating very differently than before starting medication.
For some people, it’s an initial adjustment that resolves within a few weeks. For others, it may be intermittent.
If diarrhoea is persistent or severe, it’s worth discussing with your healthcare provider, and staying hydrated becomes even more important.
Why This Happens
Diarrhoea on GLP-1s may be related to individual digestive responses to the medication, changes in your gut, or shifts in what and how much you’re eating.
Everyone’s digestive system responds differently to these metabolic changes.
Reduced Food Noise
One of the most celebrated effects of GLP-1 medications isn’t uncomfortable at all. It’s the reduction in “food noise”.
Food noise refers to the constant mental chatter about food: thinking about your next meal, fighting cravings, planning what you’ll eat, and feeling preoccupied with food throughout the day.
Many people on GLP-1s describe a dramatic quieting of these thoughts. You might notice that you’re simply not contemplating food as much, that cravings feel less urgent, or that you can make food decisions without the same mental struggle.
“Some people describe the reduction in food noise as life-changing,” says Saletta. “They finally feel like they can focus on things other than their next meal.”
You might also notice that you feel genuinely satisfied with smaller portions, that you can stop eating when you’re comfortably full, or that foods you once found irresistible simply don’t have the same pull.
Why This Happens
GLP-1 medications work in your brain as well as your gut.
They affect the reward pathways and appetite-regulation centres that drive food-seeking behaviour and cravings. This brain effect is what creates that quieter mental space around food decisions.
Better Blood Sugar Control
If you have type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, you might notice improvements in your blood sugar levels.
Your fasting glucose may decrease, your post-meal blood sugar spikes may be less dramatic, and your A1C may improve over time.
These blood sugar improvements can contribute to more stable energy throughout the day.
Some people notice they don’t experience the same afternoon energy crashes or the “hangry” feelings they used to get between meals.
Even if you don’t have diabetes, more stable blood sugar can contribute to reduced cravings and more consistent energy levels.
Why This Happens
GLP-1 medications can improve blood sugar control in multiple ways.
They enhance insulin secretion from your pancreas when blood sugar rises, suppress glucagon (a hormone that raises blood sugar), and slow the absorption of glucose from your meals due to delayed gastric emptying.
Energy and Fatigue
Low energy and more fatigue can happen on GLP-1 due to reduced calorie and nutrient intake.
You may feel physically fatigued, need more sleep, or notice your workouts feel harder than they were before.
This tiredness is usually the result of under-fuelling from eating less overall. Experts recommend eating nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to ensure adequate nutrient intake.
If persistent fatigue continues, it’s worth discussing with your healthcare provider.
Why This Happens
This fatigue can happen for several reasons. You may be eating significantly fewer calories than your body is accustomed to burning.
Your body is also adjusting to the medication itself and the metabolic changes it creates. Additionally, shifts in your blood sugar patterns (even positive ones) can temporarily affect energy levels as your body adapts.
When Side Effects Need Medical Attention
While many GLP-1 side effects are typical and temporary, certain symptoms require prompt medical attention. It’s also worth noting that “manageable’ is subjective.
If side effects are significantly impacting your quality of life—even if they don’t fall into the severe categories below—that’s worth discussing with your provider.
You shouldn’t have to white-knuckle through weeks of persistent discomfort.
Call your health care provider if you experience any of the following:
Severe abdominal pain that doesn’t improve or is located in your upper abdomen radiating to your back (potential sign of pancreatitis)
Persistent vomiting that prevents you from keeping down food or fluids for more than 24 hours
Signs of severe dehydration (dark urine, extreme dizziness, rapid heartbeat, inability to urinate)
Allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, severe rash, swelling of the face, or throat)
Vision changes or signs of diabetic retinopathy worsening
Trust your instincts. If something feels seriously wrong or different from the typical side effects described here, contact your healthcare provider. It’s always better to check in than to wait and worry.
How Long Do Side Effects Last?
For many people, the timeline looks something like this:
Weeks 1 to 4: Side effects are typically most intense during this period, particularly nausea, reduced appetite, and digestive changes. This is your body’s initial adjustment phase.
Weeks 4 to 8: Digestive symptoms can improve for some people. You may still notice reduced appetite and food noise, but the uncomfortable aspects can lessen considerably.
Beyond 8 weeks: Some people find they’ve adjusted well and experience minimal side effects, though some degree of appetite suppression and slower digestion typically continue (this is part of how the medication works).
It’s important to know that when your dose increases, you may experience a temporary return of side effects.
This pattern of adjustment after dose changes is completely normal.
Some people have minimal side effects throughout their treatment, and that’s normal too. Having fewer side effects doesn’t mean the medication isn’t working for you.
Tips for Managing Common Side Effects
A few strategies can help you navigate the adjustment period more comfortably:
Adjust your eating patterns: smaller, more frequent meals often feel better than three large meals. Listen to your fullness cues and stop eating when you’re satisfied, even if there’s food left on your plate.
Stay hydrated: sipping water throughout the day helps with both nausea and constipation. Some people find that cold or carbonated beverages help settle their stomach.
Be strategic about food choices: if nausea is an issue, avoiding very greasy or high-fat foods can help. If constipation is a problem, prioritise fibre-rich foods and adequate water intake.
Communicate with your healthcare provider: if side effects feel unmanageable, your provider may adjust your dosing schedule or suggest additional strategies. Don’t suffer in silence, and never stop your medication without consulting your provider first.
“It’s critical to stay in close communication with your healthcare team,” says Saletta.
They can advise when a mild side effect becomes something to worry about, and even in the case of mild side effects, there are almost always adjustments that can make the experience more tolerable.”
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are side effects a sign the medication is working?
Not necessarily. While side effects show that the medication is affecting your system, not everyone experiences side effects of the medication.
Effectiveness is better measured by appetite changes, weight trends, and (if applicable) blood sugar improvements.
Will side effects get worse when my dose increases?
You may experience a temporary return of side effects after a dose increase, but they typically resolve more quickly than during your initial start.
Many people find that subsequent dose adjustments cause milder symptoms than their first few weeks.
Should I stop taking my GLP-1 if I have nausea?
Nausea is one of the most common side effects and usually improves within a few weeks.
Talk to your healthcare provider about strategies to manage it—they may suggest taking your doYou can try taking the medication at a different time, adjusting your eating patterns, or temporarily maintaining your current dose for a longer period before increasing it.
Is it normal to not have any side effects?
Yes, everyone’s experience is different. Not everyone reports experiencing side effects on GLP-1 medications. This doesn’t mean the medication isn’t working.
Can I do anything to prevent side effects?
While you can’t prevent them entirely, starting at the lowest dose and increasing gradually (as prescribed) gives your body the best chance to adjust.
Following the eating strategies mentioned above from the start may also help minimise discomfort.
The Bottom Line
Starting a GLP-1 medication comes with an adjustment period for most people.
While many side effects do improve over time, the experience can range from barely noticeable to genuinely challenging—and both experiences are valid. Nausea, constipation, and other digestive changes are typical in the first few weeks and often improve by the one- to two-month mark.
Many people also experience welcome changes like reduced food noise and better blood sugar control. Stay in close contact with your healthcare provider.
especially during the first few months of treatment, and remember that most side effects don’t require stopping your medication; they just require patience and sometimes a few strategic adjustments.
They just require patience and sometimes a few strategic adjustments. With proper support and realistic expectations, you can navigate this period successfully and work toward your health goals.
Global investment opportunities are set to widen meaningfully in 2026, as easing monetary policy, a weakening US dollar, and profit growth outside the United States reshape capital flows, according to a Franklin Templeton report.
The asset manager report titled ‘Global Investment Outlook 2026 and Beyond’
said that global markets are entering a phase where returns are likely to “broaden” across regions and asset classes,
moving away from the US-centric leadership seen recently, even as American equities—particularly technology stocks—remain resilient.” “In 2026,
opportunities across global capital markets,
we foresee broadening opportunities across global capital markets, driven by attractive profits growth outside the United States and by global monetary policy easing.”
the report said. Franklin Templeton identified three cyclical forces defining the near-term landscape—widening, steepening, and weakening.
‘Broadening’ reflects expanding opportunities across geographies and asset classes; ‘steepening’ points to yield curves as short-term rates fall faster than long-term yields; and ‘weakening’ refers to the US dollar.
which the firm expects to remain under pressure. Yield curves are likely to steepen as central banks cut policy rates, reducing the appeal of cash and pushing investors towards equities, credit and longer-duration fixed income. “
Falling short-term interest rates will incentivise investors to move out of cash holdings and into risky assets.”
The report said that cyclically sensitive sectors, such as finance, industry, and smaller companies, could benefit.
The US Federal Reserve resumed rate cuts in September 2025 after a nine-month pause and is expected to continue easing into the first half of 2026.
even as inflation remains above target. Franklin Templeton said this policy backdrop reinforces its broadening thesis, encouraging investors to look beyond traditional safe assets.
The US dollar has already fallen about 10% on a trade-weighted basis this year, and the report suggested the decline may not be over. “
Weakening of the US dollar tends to reinforce a broadening of returns across capital markets, by region, sector, and asset class.”
it said, highlighting positive implications for emerging market debt and equities.
Looking beyond 2026, Franklin Templeton outlined three long-term themes likely to shape portfolios over the coming half-decade—the age of intelligence,
The report also highlighted the mainstreaming of private markets and the emergence of big government.
Artificial intelligence remains central to the long-term investment case, but the report stressed that AI deployment is still in its early stages. “
Its contribution to growth, social welfare, and investment returns is just beginning.”
Franklin Templeton spoke, pointing to continued opportunities in data centres, advanced semiconductors, and AI-enabling infrastructure.
A key constraint—and opportunity—lies in energy. The need to feed AI’s vast energy appetite is one of the most compelling investment themes.
The report noted, flagging rising electricity demand and spillover benefits for engineering, industrial metals and power infrastructure. Private markets are also expected to play a larger role as investors search for income and diversification in a lower-rate environment.
Franklin Templeton identified commercial real estate debt, infrastructure, and secondary private equity offerings as his preferred areas as cash yields declined. Simultaneously,
The report cautioned that an increase in government intervention could potentially reduce returns. “We have entered an era of big and intrusive government,
which risks lowering returns and increasing risk across capital markets over the remainder of this decade.”
it said. Franklin Templeton said investors will need to adapt their portfolios to a world where leadership is dispersed.
Policy uncertainty remains elevated, and innovation—particularly in technology, private assets, and digital finance—continues to be the dominant long-term driver of returns.
19:16, 01 January 2026 Updated 19:24, 01 January 2026
A makeshift memorial has been erected to dozens of people killed in last night’s massive ski resort fire, which killed almost 40 people.
Two teams of police officers, some carrying large bags, entered the cordon shortly after 7 pm local time.
Mourners are leaving flowers and lighting candles at a growing makeshift memorial in a circle on the Rue Central near the bar tonight.
Many people were seen making the sign of the cross in tribute, including dozens of bouquets.
Media from all over Europe, including Italy and France, have begun to arrive at the site, next to a small petrol station in the middle of Crans-Montana.
Swiss ski resort fire update:
At least 47 people died in a Crans-Montana bar blaze. Read more.
A woman lays flowers near the spot where a fire broke out in a crowded bar (Image: AFP via Getty Images). )
Despite the -4°C temperatures, people stood and stared at the scene for several minutes, clearly stunned.
Hundreds of people, many with tears in their eyes, have gathered around a makeshift memorial near the bar.
They stand in a circle around it, more than 20 people deep in some places. Others stand on top of a nearby parking garage and an elevated intersection to get the view.
A temporary monument emerged in Crans-Montana (Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Despite the crowds, it is incredibly quiet, with most people standing silent, while others occasionally whisper.
They include 42-year-old Ivan Wiesen and his wife Julianne, who drove about 20 minutes from their home to show solidarity with the victims.
Ivan, 40, told the Mirror: “We saw emergency vehicles at around 2am this morning. It’s very terrible. People here are in shock. I think a lot of young people have died.”
People crying at the scene of the fire at “Le Constellation” bar (Image: AP)
Mourners can be seen hugging each other in a circle, some in tears. Antonio Somma, an 18-year-old ski instructor, is a regular at the bar and lives a few yards away.
He and his friends were on their way from the second bar when the accident happened.
Local residents Julian and Evan Wyson are heartbroken (Image: Tim Merry/Staff Photographer)
“I found out this morning. It was difficult to hear. We don’t have any information other than that he’s in a coma, but we’re hopeful he’ll get better. We arrived at 1.30 a.m.,
shortly after it happened. It was shocking. We didn’t believe it was real at first.
A mourner gestures in front of flowers and candles placed near the spot where a fire broke out in a crowded bar (Image: AFP via Getty Images)
A friend of my mother’s works at the hospital and says some of the victims are between 14 and 17 years old. Everyone here is hurting. We’re here to think about the people inside.
I don’t know how we’ll recover.”
Witnesses said they saw waitresses come in with flares before the fire broke out (Image: X)
Nearly 40 people have been killed and 115 injured, most of them seriously, after a fire broke out during New Year’s celebrations at a bar in a Swiss alpine resort, police said.
Authorities did not immediately have an accurate count of the dead.
Mourners gather in front of flowers and candles placed near the site (Image: AFP via Getty Images)
The Crans-Montana resort is known as an international ski and golf resort, and overnight,
Its crowded Le Constellation bar transformed from a scene of revelry into the site of possibly one of Switzerland’s worst tragedies.
Valais canton police commander Friedrich Geisler said during a news conference that work was underway to identify the victims and notify their families, adding that the community was “devastated”.
A video shows the ceiling catching fire after a waiter allegedly placed a sparkler in a champagne bottle.’ (Image: X)
Valais canton Attorney General Beatrice Pillaud said it was too early to determine the cause of the fire, which broke out less than two hours after midnight Thursday. Experts had not yet been able to go inside the debris.
Scenery in Crans-Montana (Image: Tim Merry/Staff Photographer)
“There is no question of any attack at any time,” Ms Pillaud said. He later said it was “completely unknown at this time”
how many people were in the bar, adding that its maximum capacity would be part of the investigation.
When asked if anyone had been arrested in connection with the fire, he said, “At this point, we don’t have any suspects.”
On New Year’s Day, Gary Anderson defeated Justin Hood, the cult hero of Ally Pally, to advance to the World Darts Championship semifinals for the eighth time in his career.
Hood has made a significant impact at the Worlds, and his earning of £100,000 for reaching the quarterfinals will enable him to fulfil his dream of opening a Chinese restaurant.
With a 99.4 average, five 180s, a 43 per cent checkout, and three tonne-plus finishes of 161, 127, and 121, the Scot ended his fairy-tale debut run in a 5-2 victory, but Anderson proved to be a step too far.
World Championship QF Results: New Year’s Day
Afternoon Session
Ryan Searle
5-2
Jonny Clayton
Gary Anderson
5-2
Justin Hood
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The “Flying Scotsman” is once again flying high at Alexandra Palace. In a display of sheer class and unflappable finishing, darts legend Gary Anderson charges into the World Darts Championship semi-finals for a remarkable eighth time in his career, defeating a spirited Justin Hood 5-3 in a gripping quarter-final clash.
A Masterclass Under Pressure
Facing the emerging talent of Justin Hood, who had already enjoyed a fairytale run, Anderson showcased exactly why he is a two-time world champion. The match was a tense, high-quality affair, but when it mattered most, the Scot’s experience and explosive scoring power shone through. With a stunning average of over 100 and a series of clutch checkouts, Gary Anderson charges into World Darts Championship semi-finals territory, proving he remains one of the most formidable contenders for the Sid Waddell Trophy.
“This one means a lot,” Anderson said post-match. “Justin pushed me all the way. I had to dig deep and find my rhythm, and thankfully the finishes came when I needed them. I’m not done yet.”
The Road to the Final Four
Anderson’s path to the semi-finals has been a testament to his enduring quality:
Round 3: A dominant 4-1 victory over Simon Whitlock.
Round 4: A hard-fought 4-2 win against a dangerous Boris Krčmar.
By securing his place in the final four, Gary Anderson charges into World Darts Championship semi-finals history, joining an elite group of players. He now stands just two wins away from a potential third world title. His next opponent will be another major test, as he faces the winner of the match between [Insert Opponent Name], promising another epic battle on the iconic Ally Pally stage.
Anderson’s run is a powerful reminder of his legendary status in the sport. While new stars emerge, the 53-year-old’s combination of fluid throwing action, relentless scoring, and icy-cool finishing continues to make him a nightmare for any opponent.
A Legacy Cemented
With this victory, Gary Anderson not only keeps his dream of a third world crown alive but also solidifies his legacy as one of the greatest players to ever grace the oche. His ability to perform on the biggest stage, year after year, is unparalleled. As the drama at Alexandra Palace reaches its peak, one thing is certain: you can never count out the Flying Scotsman.
Will this season be the year Gary Anderson lifts the trophy once more? The semi-finals will reveal all.
Follow our coverage for the latest updates and analysis from the PDC World Darts Championship.
Mexican authorities have seized dozens of motorcycles worth about $40 million in the search for a former Olympic snowboarder on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted list.
Canadian Ryan Wedding, 44, has been accused of running a multinational drug trafficking network and also faces charges in connection with the murder of a federal witness.
US officials believe he is staying in Mexico under the protection of the Sinaloa Cartel, and up to $15 million (£11 million) has been offered for information leading to his arrest.
image: The photo was taken in 2024. Photo: FBI/AP
Mexican authorities executed multiple search warrants this month and seized a large number of motorcycles believed to belong to Wedding.
The FBI estimated the bike’s value at around $40 million (£30 million) in a statement this week.
image: Photo: FBI
image: Photo: FBI
Other items seized include artefacts and medals.
The FBI said the seizures were made with the assistance of Mexican authorities.
Wedding competed for Canada at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, where he finished 24th in the men’s parallel giant slalom event.
The former player has been compared to other famous drug kingpins, including Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman and Pablo Escobar.
image: Wedding competed for Canada at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. Photo: Reuters
Last month, a wedding took place, and the accused is charged with conspiring to murder a witness in Colombia to help avoid extradition to America in January.
Ten other defendants were arrested on charges in the federal indictment, which was unsealed in California.
Read more from Sky News:
Four people were killed in a US attack on an alleged drug boat.
A decade of county lines leaves its mark on children
Authorities have accused Wedding of working with the Sinaloa Cartel to transport large quantities of drugs into the United States and Canada.
Wedding, whose aliases include El Jefe, Public Enemy and James Conrad King, was accused in 2024 of running a drug gang that moved about 60 tonnes of cocaine a year.
They used long-haul lorries to transport drugs between Colombia, Mexico, Southern California, and Canada.
Authorities say he and his co-conspirators used a Canadian website called The Dirty News to post a photo of a witness so he could be identified and killed.
The witness was then followed to a restaurant in Medellin and shot in the head in January.
US Attorney General Pam Bondi said last month, “Whether you’re a street-level drug dealer… or an international drug kingpin, we’re coming for you.”
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