Many of us will be making the most of the summer with outdoor activities where our diet is a little more relaxed

Thousands of Brits are expected to enjoy summer barbecues, holidays and outdoor meals this year. However, a hair expert has warned that some seasonal favourites could be affecting hair health.

While many people focus on protecting their skin from the sun and staying hydrated during warmer months, experts say diet can also play a role in the condition of your hair. Studies published by PubMed have found that nutritional deficiencies, including low levels of key vitamins and minerals, can affect the hair growth cycle and contribute to increased shedding.

Dr Emrah Cinik, founder of Dr Cinik Hair Clinic, says some popular summer foods and drinks could be making hair weaker when they regularly replace nutrient-rich options.

Dr Cinik said, “Summer is a time when people often change their eating habits. More barbecues, sugary treats and alcohol can become part of a weekly routine.

“Your hair follicles need a consistent supply of nutrients to produce strong, healthy strands. When the diet lacks important vitamins, minerals and protein, it can affect the strength and quality of your hair.”

Five summer foods which could be affecting your hair

1. Ice cream

A summer staple on holidays and hot days, ice cream may be a favourite treat, but Dr Cinik warns that regularly consuming high-sugar foods could affect hair health.

“When you eat large amounts of sugar regularly, it can increase inflammation in the body,” explains Dr Cinik. “Inflammation can affect the environment around the hair follicles, making it harder for them to produce strong and healthy strands.”

He adds that frequent sugar spikes may also affect circulation.

He said, “When blood sugar levels are repeatedly raised, it can impact how efficiently nutrients reach the scalp. Over time, this may contribute to weaker hair and increased shedding.”

Dr Cinik recommends swapping some sugary treats for options that contain more nutrients.

“Summer fruits such as berries are a better choice because they provide vitamins and antioxidants that support overall health, including the scalp.”

2. Sausages

From garden barbecues to summer picnics, sausages are a popular warm-weather food, but Dr Cinik says that eating too much processed meat could affect hair quality.

“Processed meats can contain high levels of unhealthy fats and fewer nutrients that support hair growth. Hair follicles need a steady supply of vitamins, minerals and protein. A diet dominated by processed foods can make it harder for the body to provide what the hair needs,” he said.

He suggests balancing barbecue meals with healthier options. “Adding foods like grilled chicken, eggs, vegetables or fish alongside barbecue favourites can help provide the nutrients needed for stronger hair.”

3. Cocktails

Summer holidays and outdoor events often mean more cocktails and alcoholic drinks, but Dr Cinik warns that excessive alcohol consumption can affect the scalp.

“Alcohol can contribute to dehydration, and hydration plays an important role in maintaining a healthy scalp. It can also affect the body’s ability to absorb important nutrients such as zinc, iron and B vitamins, which are all linked to healthy hair growth,” he explains.

He advises being careful during periods of increased drinking.

“Having water alongside alcoholic drinks and maintaining a balanced diet can help reduce the impact on your hair and overall health.”

4. Chips

Whether it is a beachside meal or a holiday takeaway, chips are a common summer comfort food. Dr Cinik says regularly eating fried foods may contribute to poorer hair condition.

“Foods that are high in unhealthy fats can increase inflammation and may affect the scalp environment. This can leave hair feeling dry, greasy or more prone to breakage depending on the person, he said.

He recommends choosing healthier fats instead.

“Foods like avocado, olive oil, nuts and oily fish contain fats that support scalp health and help maintain stronger hair.”

5. Ice lollies

Another summer favourite, ice lollies can be packed with added sugar but offer little nutritional value, according to Dr Cinik.

“Hair growth requires a range of nutrients, and foods that provide mainly sugar without vitamins or minerals do not support the needs of the hair follicles. When these foods replace more nutritious options, the hair may not receive the nutrients it needs to stay strong,” he explains.

Dr Cinik recommends making simple swaps. “Choosing snacks such as yoghurt, nuts or fruit can provide more of the vitamins and minerals needed to support healthy hair.”

A man in his 20s suffered serious injuries after being shot

Five people charged in connection with an attempted murder have appeared in court. A man in his 20s suffered serious injuries after he was shot in Leverington Common in Gorefield, near Wisbech, at around 1.55am on May 31.

The man remains in a critical, but stable condition, Cambridgeshire Police said. Five people were arrested and later charged in connection with the attempted murder. These were:

• Jesse Hughes, 31, of St Thomas’ Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, has been charged with attempted murder, possession of a firearm, and perverting the course of justice;
• Billy Cameron, 21, of Grosvenor Road, Basildon, Essex, has been charged with conspiracy to murder and perverting the course of justice;
• Brandon Walsh, 29, of Long Riding, Basildon, Essex, has been charged with conspiracy to murder and perverting the course of justice;
• Eleanor Warren, 30, of Willingham Gardens, Flitton, Bedfordshire, has been charged with perverting the course of justice;
• Leah Foley, 34, of Byrd Court, Basildon, with assisting an offender.

All five appeared at Luton Magistrates Court on Wednesday, July 22. The five defendants will next appear at Cambridge Crown Court on Wednesday, August 19, for a trial and custody hearing.

All defendants, except Eleanor Warren, have been remanded in custody. Warren has been granted conditional bail, with conditions including a curfew and no contact to be made with the other defendants.

Cambridgeshire Police also arrested a 35-year-old man from March on suspicion of attempted murder. He was released on police bail and is due to return to Thorpe Wood Police Station in Peterborough on August 31.

Free pullouts and reader offers every day of the Goodwood Festival with your favourite racing paper

The Mirror is the only companion you need for the 2026 Qatar Goodwood Festival! With packed pullouts every day of the iconic event, plus amazing reader offers, you won’t want to miss your favourite racing paper from Tuesday August 28 until Saturday August 1, 2026! The event promises a fiercely competitive five‑day showcase from 28 July to 1 August, with the Sussex Downs preparing for one of the most talent‑stacked fields in recent memory.

Anticipation is already building around several standout contenders. In the Qatar Sussex Stakes, all eyes are on City of Troy, the mercurial colt seeking redemption after an uneven three‑year‑old campaign. His expected clash with the French star Metropolitan sets up a compelling cross‑Channel duel, while Irish hopes rest on Opera Singer, whose late‑season surge in 2025 marked her as a dangerous miler.

The Goodwood Cup could be the festival’s defining storyline. Veteran stayer Kyprios aims to reclaim dominance, but rising challenger Tower of London has shown the kind of relentless staying power that unsettles even the most seasoned rivals. On the riding front, Ryan Moore, Oisin Murphy, and Tom Marquand are poised to shape the narrative, each arriving with strong stables and festival‑tested instincts. Their tactical battles — especially on Goodwood’s undulating, momentum‑sensitive track — will be as riveting as the horses beneath them.

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An inquest has been unable to determine how a 33-year-old man came to be found dead in the Cardiff Bay barrage. Amanuel Kessete had been reported missing a week before his body was discovered on June 15 last year floating in the water.

Pontypridd coroners’ court heard Mr Kessete, originally from Eritrea in east Africa, had been living at the Etap hotel in Tyndall Street, central Cardiff, before his disappearance. He was last seen at 8.50am on June 8 at the budget hotel, wearing a black coat and hoodie.

Coroner Patricia Morgan said: “Amanuel Kessete had a history of mental health issues and psychosis and had been under the care of mental health services in recent years.

“Mr Kessete had been reported missing in the days leading up to his passing, having not been seen at his place of residence.”

After a passer-by discovered his body in the barrage, he was declared dead at the scene.

Read the full story here

Iain Robertson was convicted of five offences, including domestic abuse

A former soap actor has been jailed for nine years for raping a woman and assaulting two others. Iain Robertson, 45, who played Stevie O’Hara in the BBC’s Scottish soap River City, was convicted of five offences, including domestic abuse, against the women between 2004 and 2019.

Richardson was found guilty last month of a total of five offences against three women between 2004 and 2019.

He raped one of the women some time between 2018 and 2019, and also sexually assaulted her on a separate occasion, reports the Daily Record.

At Edinburgh High Court on Thursday judge Lady Drummond sentenced the 45-year-old to nine years in prison, plus an additional three-year supervision period.

READ MORE: River Cam users breaching licence conditions could face legal enforcement

READ MORE: Five appear in court after man shot and seriously injured in Cambridgeshire

He was also added to the sex offenders’ register indefinitely, and made subject to indefinite non-harassment orders.

Robertson, who was attending via videolink from prison dressed in a blue top, showed no reaction as the sentence was handed down.

According to a new survey of 2,000 Brits, 83% stick rigidly to a morning routine, with 42% preferring a shower to start the day.

As part of Holiday Inn Express by IHG Hotels & Resorts’ The Great Wake-up Debate, comedian Rob Beckett is helping kick off a national discussion about how people start their mornings.

Mr Beckett said: “People will argue about absolutely anything, but morning routines are right up there with the best of them.

“You’ve got the annoyingly cheerful lot who are up, showered and chatting away before 7am — and then the rest of us, who need a bit of peace before we’re feeling properly human.

“What surprised me most is how seriously people take it — tea or coffee can divide a room faster than you can make either.”

Generational differences also surfaced, with 21% of Gen Z adults admitting they might re-wear less-than-fresh clothes if pressed for time, compared with 16% of Gen X and 14% of baby boomers.

Almost a third of respondents said breakfast is the best part of a hotel stay, and one in five said they would book a hotel room if they knew there was a comfortable bed waiting.

John Wright, VP Mainstream Brands at IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “The Great Wake Up Debate proves that everyone has their own morning habits and rituals.

“But what unites us is wanting to start the day feeling our best.

A poll of 2,000 Brits revealed some very set opinions on the best way to start the day (Image: Holiday Inn)

“That’s why we focus on the essentials that matter most to our guests — comfortable beds with a choice of pillows, blackout curtains, bedside charging, and our free hot breakfast.

“It’s all about making mornings feel a little easier and helping guests wake up refreshed, recharged, and ready for whatever the day brings.”

Other key findings reveal more of the nation’s early-hour habits.

34% of people get up as soon as the alarm rings, but 26% admit to hitting snooze once or twice before rising.

Coffee is the preferred morning drink for 36%, edging out tea at 32%.

For many Brits, tea etiquette remains a sticking point, with one in four saying it’s wrong to add milk before the tea bag.

Still, 9% confess to making their tea this way.

Nearly half (47%) check their phone within five minutes of waking up, while only 3% manage to resist altogether.

The age-old debate over dental hygiene timing remains divided, with 45% brushing before breakfast and another 45% brushing after.

Other quirks include 20% who spend several minutes sitting on the edge of the bed “processing reality” before getting up.

Rob Beckett said: “For me, it all comes down to a good night’s sleep and a good brekkie to start the day.

“I’m a two-soft-pillows kind of guy and, while I’m usually up with the first alarm at home, I’m firmly “team lie-in” when I’m away.

“Even better when there’s free breakfast waiting, like at Holiday Inn Express – you’ll find me parked by the bacon and eggs!”

When it comes to breakfast preferences, 18% have eaten eggs with ketchup, but 13% of respondents have tried eggs with salad cream.

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Baked beans sparked even more debate, with 32% finding the idea of beans with mayonnaise “controversial” and 33% saying the same about serving beans on a croissant.

More than a third (35%) consider pouring juice over cereal instead of milk a breakfast “crimes.”

A quarter of Brits insist milk should never go in the bowl before cereal, though 8% admit to doing just that.

And while 15% are put off by drinking leftover cereal milk, 26% say they’re happy to do so.

What’s in your morning routine? Let us know in the comments.

Jo Whiley broke down in tears as she detailed how she guided her younger sister Frances through grief following the death of their father Martin.

Frances, 53, lives with a rare genetic disorder called Cri du Chat, a condition which causes severe learning disabilities and developmental delays. She also lives with diabetes.

The radio and TV presenter, 61, shared the devastating news that her father died on Wednesday just weeks after sharing an update on his Parkinson’s disease diagnosis. 

Only a day after announcing his passing, Jo appeared on her Dig It podcast with Zoe Ball and discussed how the family has been coping with their grief.

Explaining how she told Frances, Jo said: ‘Frances has been extraordinary and she completely understands what is going on, she knows that he’s not going to get better, she just keeps saying “Not going to die?” and instead of sugarcoating it you just have to say “Well, he is not going to come home”.

‘And she kind of pauses and she’s like “Okay, where is he going?” And my mum is a really, really devout Christian and she says “Well, he’s going to Jesus and that’s where we all go.”

Frances, 53, lives with a rare genetic disorder called Cri du Chat, a condition which causes severe learning disabilities and developmental delays (pictured together in 1998)

‘Frances is like “Okay, how old is he?” He’s 86 and she goes “87?” And we’re like “No, he is not going to be 87” and she thinks about it and she’s like “Okay”.

‘She’s just been so tender with him, it’s been beautiful to watch, I’ve talked about her accepting grief before and coming to terms with things.’

Jo added: ‘And then there was this really lovely moment when she was leaving the other day and it was when he was on the cusp of consciousness and she was going “Say my name, say my name!” And he actually said the word Frances.

‘Oh wow,’ Zoe said as she teared up.

Feeling mixed emotions, Jo added: ‘It was lovely, it was really good. She keeps saying “Daddy said my name!” It couldn’t have been better.’

Taking to Instagram on Wednesday to announce her father’s passing, Jo posted a series of happy snaps and clips of her dad throughout the years.

Alongside the post, she penned: ‘My lovely Dad died today. He was the kindest man, who lived solely to make others happy. He was supremely selfless and loved nothing more than caring for others and making people laugh.

‘I’ve had so many messages today saying that ‘Martin was a character’ and that sums him up completely. Everyone knew Martin Whiley – in the Pub, in his Village and at the school gates when he picked up my children (he was the BEST Manny EVER long before they became trendy).’

She went on to thank her dad for her love of music, saying he would walk around the building site where he worked as an electrician with a huge ghetto blaster.

The star called him the ‘OG DJ’ and applauded him for his passion for music.

Only a day after announcing his passing, Jo appeared on her Dig It podcast with Zoe Ball and discussed how the family has been coping with their grief

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The radio and TV presenter, 61, shared the devastating news that her father died on Wednesday just weeks after sharing an update on his Parkinson’s disease diagnosis 

She shared this alongside a gallery of images of her father 

Jo continued: ‘His childhood was as sad as it gets. When he was a boy he had TB and was sent alone to a sanitarium in London for 2 years which is why we’re all Spurs fans! From a young age he had no parents and was brought up by a family friend, his beloved Pap. 

‘Meeting my Mum meant that Dad got a family of his own and finally got to experience love. Knowing how it felt not to be cared for, he devoted his life to caring for others.

‘Being the father of someone with Learning Disabilities in the 70’s [Jo’s younger sister, Frances, has cri du chat syndrome, a genetic disorder], meant that life has had its challenges but Dad has been such a force for good in the LD world simply by embracing & loving everyone with a difference. 

‘So many great singalongs at the Rockin’ Roadrunner with Dad on the mic.

‘He may have had the saddest childhood but he triumphed by giving me, Frances, and his grandchildren the happiest childhoods anyone could have dreamt of. He was the greatest Dad and he was everybody’s favourite Grandad, but especially to India , Jude, Cass and Coco who adored him.

‘Ps. From Frances – thanks for the endless stories, night after night, all night long. We’re going to miss you so very much. You absolute legend xx.’

Jo’s post was also flooded with condolences from her celebrity pals.

Fearne Cotton wrote: ‘Love and strength to you today Jo. We are all here for you. Love you.’

Davina McCall said: ‘Oh Jo x sending you all love,’ while Denise Van Outen added: ‘Sorry for your loss.’ 

Taking to Instagram, Jo posted a series of happy snaps and clips of her dad throughout the years

His passing comes just days after Jo admitted she’s been ‘just trying to get through each day’ as she opened up about her family’s ongoing health struggles.

The BBC Radio 2 presenter continues to enjoy a hugely successful career, juggling her radio show alongside two popular podcasts.

But away from the spotlight, Jo has been dealing with difficult personal challenges as her family face a series of health issues.

In the September issue of Woman & Home, she revealed that ‘things have been hard on a personal level lately’, but are ‘better than they were’.

She explained: ‘My mum had a back operation over Christmas, and for a long time, all I was doing was going to the hospital and sitting with Mum and Dad. That became my whole world. Dad has Parkinson’s, and it was just about getting through each day and being there for them.’

Jo also shared an update on her father’s battle with Parkinson’s disease, saying that ‘everyday is like Groundhog Day’.

Speaking about her father’s condition on her Dig It podcast, she said that her father had recently been reluctant to take his medication.

‘I just don’t feel I need to take them.’ And a whole room full of us were going, ‘No, Dad, you really do. You’ve got Parkinson’s.’ You do. And then he went, ‘But doesn’t Parkinson’s just go away?’

She described it as a ‘heartbreaking moment’, as she told her father that the disease is incurable.

‘Every day it’s like Groundhog Day. You have the same conversations over and over again.’

Nuclear experts and former officials in Israel – the US’s top ally in the Middle East – have voiced concern that the plan could ultimately lead to Saudi Arabia being able to develop a nuclear weapon – though other experts say that path would likely take decades and spark pushback from the international community.

Israeli Economy Minister Nir Barkat said his country “can manage it” if Saudi Arabia had nuclear power for peaceful means.

Israel itself is widely believed to have nuclear weapons, but it neither confirms nor denies that this is the case.

Rosemary Kelanic, the director of the Middle East programme at the US-based Defense Priorities think tank, said it would be “quite shocking” if the US were to allow Saudi Arabia uranium enrichment facilities.

“The US has never done that before. We have never helped another country enrich on their own soil,” she said, adding that this was because “if you can produce your own nuclear fuel, you become a much bigger risk” for building nuclear weapons.

The agreement will now be sent to the US Congress for review.

Some lawmakers on both sides of the political aisle are expected to oppose the deal, though Trump’s Republican Party controls both the upper and lower chambers and opponents of the deal do not appear to have the votes needed to block it.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio rebuffed concerns that it could advance Saudi Arabia’s ability to develop nuclear arms.

“The US is not going to reach any agreement with any country in the world that leads to the risk of proliferation,” Rubio told reporters.

Several Democrats opposed to the deal pointed out that, during his time as a senator, Rubio had endorsed a law – the “No Nuclear Weapons for Saudi Arabia Act” – which required Congressional approval of any nuclear deal.

Massachusetts Democratic Senator Edward Markey condemned Rubio and Trump as “allowing Saudi Arabia, a belligerent and authoritarian nation, to develop nuclear weapons technologies while starting a war with Iran under the guise of preventing an Iranian nuclear bomb”, adding that their “hypocrisy is matched only by their recklessness”.

From berry-inspired creations on the high street to TikTokers whisking up DIY versions of the green tea in their kitchens, it seems like everyone is all over matcha this summer.

But recently, concerns about the drink’s impacts on iron absorption have flooded social media.

With influencers expressing worries that the tea may lower the body’s ability to process iron, some have raised concerns over the potential health risks versus its benefits.

So The Independent asked specialist dietitian and author of How Not To Eat Ultra Processed, Nichola Ludlam-Raine, and nutritionist of 17 years Sonal Jenkins for the facts and the myths.

What is matcha and what are its benefits?

Thought to have first been consumed in 2700BC China, matcha is a powder made from finely ground, shade-grown green tea leaves.

Packed with powerful compounds called polyphenols – which are currently being studied for their cancer-fighting properties – matcha is recognised for a range of health benefits, including fighting oxidative stress and supporting heart health.

It is rich in antioxidants, particularly a group called catechins, which help protect cells from damage. The most potent catechin in matcha, EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), has been studied for its potential role in reducing inflammation.

Because matcha powder is whisked directly into water or milk, rather than steeped and discarded like a regular teabag, drinkers consume the entire leaf, getting a much more concentrated dose of nutrients and antioxidants.

Does matcha reduce iron absorption?

So, does drinking matcha actually prevent iron absorption in the body? The short answer is yes, but whether this matters depends on the context.

According to Ms Ludlam-Raine, the concerns surrounding matcha stem from its rich profile of tannins, which are a group of bitter plant compounds also found in coffee, red wine, and dark chocolate.

“These tannins are what actually impact how iron is absorbed into the body,” Ms Ludlam-Raine explained.

When you drink matcha, tannins act like a magnet in your gut. They latch onto iron – specifically non-haem iron, which is found in plant foods like spinach, beans, and lentils – and bind it into a solid complex that your digestive tract cannot absorb.

Ms Ludlam-Raine said because matcha is made from whole tea leaves, its higher concentration of tannins means it can affect iron absorption much more than a standard tea or coffee.

But she said “for most people, the impacts of one matcha a day aren’t going to be that big”.

Who actually needs to worry?

Ms Jenkins explained for anyone eating a balanced diet, their daily total iron intake easily overcomes the binding effect of a daily matcha. However, two specific groups should pay more attention.

The first group are vegans and vegetarians. Because plant-based eaters rely entirely on non-haem iron sources, heavy matcha consumption can potentially deplete iron stores over time.

The second group are people with low iron. If you are already struggling with maintaining your iron levels, or have been diagnosed with anaemia via a blood test, being mindful of things which can impact your body’s ability to process iron is especially important.

How to enjoy matcha without affecting your iron

Even if you are part of these groups, you don’t need to give up your favourite green drink entirely. Ms Ludlam-Raine shared a few simple tips that can make all the difference, such as spacing out matcha from your meals.

“If you’re deficient in iron, or have lower ferritin levels, try and avoid drinking matcha directly before, or right after plant-heavy meals,” she said. “Wait around at least an hour or two before or after eating.”

By waiting, the body has time to absorb the iron before matcha can have any impact on the binding process.

“The best time to have your matcha is in the mid-morning or afternoon, rather than after an iron-rich meal,” she added.

Adding more vitamin C to your diet can also boost your non-haem iron absorption, explained Ms Jenkins, which can neutralise any effect matcha might have on your iron levels.

“Taking a supplement or eating a portion of food rich in vitamin C is an easy way to up your iron,” she added. “Bell peppers, goji berries, and citrus are all great sources of vitamin C, which can help if you’re struggling.”

Overall, it’s important to remember that matcha is not a “miracle drink”, Ms Ludlam-Raine said.

“It has some great benefits, and a few downsides, but that doesn’t mean you should avoid it either – just stick to one a day, and make sure you’re pairing it with a healthy, balanced lifestyle,” she concluded.

The thieves removed a fence panel to access the rear of the property and used patio furniture to block access.

Local neighbourhood officers are conducting extra patrols in the area in response to the incident.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said: “Officers are actively patrolling the area, but your vigilance is a powerful tool in preventing further crime.”

They also provided a list of safety tips to help prevent further incidents.

Police have issued a warning after multiple motorbikes were stolen in Astley (Image: Stock)

This includes ensuring all entry points are locked, using motion-activated lights, and making sure home alarm or CCTV systems are working properly.

The force also advised residents to keep valuables out of sight and to report any unusual activity, such as suspicious individuals or vehicles circling the area.

Residents who own similar vehicles were advised to consider installing ground anchors, chains, and heavy-duty locks.

Police also reminded residents of the importance of quick reporting, as it helps them respond faster and keep the community safe.

Anyone with information about the burglary, or who notices any suspicious activity, is urged to contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.