A Closer Look: Can drug-fuelled sports provide insight into human longevity?

In A Closer Look, The National provides an in-depth take on one of the main stories of the week.

Claims have been made that a proposed controversial athletic competition, fuelled by banned performance-enhancing drugs, could bring about research to benefit human longevity.

Hundreds of athletes have signed up for the Enhanced Games, planned for next year, as they seek to push the boundaries of human performance while using substances prohibited by the International Olympic Committee.

But could the event provide some unexpected benefits by providing key insights into health and ageing?

Here, host Sarah Forster speaks to The National's health editor Nick Webster about what scientists could discover when athletes push themselves to the limit.

Read more

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Foods that are good for heart health: in pictures

Oats are rich in soluble fibre, lower bad cholesterol, reduce heart disease risk and improve digestion. Photo: Łukasz Rawa / Unsplash

Salmon contains high omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health, lower inflammation and regulate blood pressure. Getty Images

Berries are packed with antioxidants, improve artery function, reduce blood pressure and prevent blood clotting. Photo: Sneha Cecil / Unsplash

Leafy greens are high in vitamins and minerals, lower blood pressure and support overall heart function. Getty Images

Nut contain healthy fats and fibre, while antioxidants improve cholesterol levels and protect the heart. Photo: Raspopova Marina / Unsplash

Beans and legumes have high fibre content that reduces cholesterol absorption, stabilises blood sugar and maintains heart health. Getty Images

Dark chocolate contains flavonoids that lower blood pressure, improve blood flow and moderately reduce the risk of heart disease. Getty Images