The authors propose a combination of traditional and modern breeding methods to address global micronutrient deficiencies. They suggest that new genomic techniques, such as CRISPR/Cas gene-editing, hold great potential for the future, enabling targeted modification of specific genes and accelerating the development of biofortified crops.
Scientists have created a novel antibiotic that targets starved bacteria by blocking energy-coupling factor transporters. The breakthrough offers hope for tackling drug-resistant infections, with promising results in mouse models and no resistant bacterial variants emerging.
A new study finds that large-scale food fortification programs currently prevent around 7 billion cases of micronutrient inadequacies worldwide each year, costing just 18 cents per person. Improving and expanding these programs could triple their impact to prevent 25 billion cases annually.
Researchers developed a systematic framework for matching nutrients to genetic diseases, identifying vitamins B2 and B3 as key players in treating various conditions. The study's findings also revealed a new vitamin-disease interaction involving the NAXD gene and vitamin B3.
Researchers discovered that high-dose vitamin B3 can dramatically extend survival in mice with NAXD deficiency, a devastating genetic disease. The study identifies dozens of other genetic conditions potentially responsive to vitamin therapy.
A study from Lund University found that a climate-friendly diet rich in plant-based foods like wholegrains, legumes, fruit, and vegetables leads to better nutritional status compared to traditional diets. Despite lower meat consumption, most participants achieved sufficient amounts of key vitamins and minerals.
Researchers found that exposure to hotter weather during pregnancy disrupts key amino acids and vitamins, increasing the risk of preterm delivery. The study provides new insights into the biological mechanisms behind preterm birth and may lead to the development of early biomarkers for identification and prevention strategies.
Microbial metabolites from the gut microbiome influence gene expression, cellular function, and host health. The MDME axis proposes a unified theoretical framework explaining this complex dialogue.
Researchers have developed vitamin-engineered nanoplatforms that can overcome tumor heterogeneity and therapeutic resistance. These platforms integrate immunomodulation, precision drug delivery, and diagnostic capabilities, enabling targeted therapy and early detection of cancer.
Isha Jain wins NIH Transformative Research Award to develop new targeted treatments using modern science and techniques, potentially leading to personalized vitamin-based therapies for genetic disorders. Her lab has made key discoveries on oxygen levels and tissue damage, aiming to fine-tune these processes for disease treatment.
Brassica vegetables are rich in health-promoting compounds like glucosinolates, vitamins, carotenoids, and essential minerals that can reduce risks of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic conditions. The review highlights strategies to boost their value through breeding, biofortification, and advanced biotechnologies.
A comprehensive international analysis of donor human milk found dramatic variations depending on lactation stage and region. Donor human milk was found to have higher concentrations of nutrients like protein, minerals, and B-vitamins in early donation models from Kenya.
A new study published in PLOS One found that vegan diets for dogs sold in the UK provide similar nutrition to meat-based diets. The study highlights the importance of a balanced and nutritional diet for canine companions, emphasizing that every dog is unique and dietary needs vary.
A UK study found that plant-based dog foods did not meet nutritional guidelines for iodine and B-vitamins, but experts say supplements or formulation changes can address these gaps. The research analyzed 31 dry dog foods, including meat-based and veterinary options, and found none met European Pet Food Industry Federation standards.
A new study reveals how Lactococcus lactis regulates the production of a key precursor in vitamin K2 biosynthesis. By tuning substrate supply and genetic architecture, researchers can push production above natural ceilings, opening the door to engineering bacteria for enhanced vitamin K2 production.
The BfR emphasizes that vitamins and minerals are essential but unnecessary additional intake can lead to health issues. The institute also discusses various health risks associated with food supplements, including plant-based ingredients.
A recent study by researchers at the University of Arizona Health Sciences found a two-way relationship between micronutrient deficiencies and chronic pain. People with severe deficiencies in vitamins D, B12, folate, and magnesium were more likely to have severe chronic pain.
Researchers found that supplements of B vitamins B6, B9, and B12, as well as choline, slowed down damage to the optic nerve in glaucoma. This was observed in experiments on mice and rats with glaucoma, where eye pressure was left untreated.
A researcher at East Tennessee State University is working on a potentially groundbreaking study to increase the vitamin content in seeds. The goal is to craft tools that can activate genes responsible for producing essential vitamins like provitamin A and folate, addressing global micronutrient deficiencies.
A study by researchers at the University of Kentucky has found that plant immune responses and human neurological health share common biochemical pathways. This discovery highlights the importance of plant-based diets for essential vitamins and amino acids, and suggests a link between disruptions in amino acid metabolism and human health.
Researchers from the University of Georgia are exploring how to repurpose edible flowers as sustainable food ingredients using ultrasound technology. The method helps dry out and preserve flowers without compromising their quality, making them a viable source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
A recent study published in The Lancet Global Health found that prenatal multiple micronutrient supplements significantly reduced the risk of small vulnerable newborn types, including preterm birth, low birthweight, and small-for-gestational-age birth. These findings suggest that switching from iron and folic acid supplements to MMS as...
A pooled data analysis of 132 studies involving 52,501 participants found that 45% of people with type 2 diabetes have a micronutrient deficiency. Vitamin D was the most common deficiency, affecting 60.5% of those with the condition.
A team of researchers from DTU has successfully produced vitamin B2 using a novel, cost-effective, and climate-friendly method involving food-approved lactic acid bacteria. The production process requires only basic fermentation tools and can be integrated into traditional foods, enhancing public health and reducing environmental impact.
A study of 831 pregnant women found that only 36% adhere to folic acid supplementation recommendations, with low folate and vitamin B12 status detected in nearly half. Deficiencies can cause miscarriage, malformations, and other health problems.
A new study in Frontiers in Nutrition found that well-constructed low-carb eating patterns can meet and sometimes exceed nutrient needs. The study assessed three different 7-day low-carb meal plans, which safely exceeded nutrient needs for vitamins A to K, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folate, and vitamins B6 and B12.
The wearable device monitors vital chemical levels in fingertip sweat, fueling its own energy and powering a suite of sensors. It can track glucose, vitamins, lactate, and levodopa levels without requiring physical activity or stimuli, offering a reliable health monitoring solution.
Recent studies highlight the vital role of fruits, vegetables, and co-products in preventing chronic diseases. A diet rich in these foods can lower blood pressure, reduce heart disease risk, and improve overall health.
Researchers found a link between gut microbiota and Parkinson's disease, revealing reduced B vitamins and intestinal barrier issues. Treatment with B vitamins could alleviate PD symptoms and slow disease progression.
Researchers developed a bioelectronic chip that can detect vitamins C and D in body fluids, offering a low-cost and easy-to-use solution for micronutrient monitoring. The chip is disposable, flexible, and can be adapted for wearable devices, enabling personalized diets and prevention of deficiencies.
Researchers developed a framework to ensure food safety by retaining vitamins and minerals. The study used bootstrapping to estimate kill ratios in low-moisture foods, allowing for more accurate risk assessments and potentially relaxed standards, while maintaining high levels of food safety.
Researchers from UC Davis School of Medicine and MIND Institute found that imbalances in folic acid and vitamin B12 can alter brain development in mice. High folic acid intake, even within recommended guidelines, may cause neurodevelopmental issues in offspring.
A recent study found that nearly all pregnant women have low levels of essential vitamins and minerals, with some developing deficiencies in late pregnancy. Supplementing with over-the-counter multivitamins significantly reduced nutrient deficiencies before and during pregnancy.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that 90% of pregnant women in high-income countries lack key vitamins necessary for healthy pregnancies and fetal development. The situation is expected to worsen as more people adopt plant-based diets, leading to increased risk of nutrient deficiencies.
Researchers found that prenatal vitamins provided short-term benefits, while postnatal vitamins offered sustained impacts on breast milk B-12 adequacy. Both types of supplements supported healthy growth and development in infants.
Researchers at Kyoto University found that a poor, low-yeast diet causes fruit flies' larvae to grow dendrites in an unexpected way. The hyperarborization phenotype is triggered by a simultaneous deficiency in vitamins, metal ions, and cholesterol, which increases the production of Wingless signaling molecules from body wall muscle.
Researchers discovered that nicotinamide riboside supplements may increase the prevalence of triple-negative breast cancer and its metastasis to the brain. The study used bioluminescent imaging technology to investigate NR uptake and found a link between NR levels and NAD+ metabolism.
Researchers have discovered a novel sexual reproduction process in Galdieria microalgae, which has significant implications for biotechnology applications. The discovery could lead to the development of new industrial uses for microalgae, including wastewater treatment and food ingredient production.
A recent study led by Veronika Somoza found that egg powder is a valuable source of essential nutrients, including vitamins and indispensable amino acids. The researchers discovered that the drying process did not lead to contamination with heavy metals and that egg powder can provide up to 61% of a child's daily requirement for selenium.
Penn State researchers are developing a biodegradable nerve scaffold that employs folate and citrate to promote tissue regeneration and Schwann cell migration, which is critical for nerve growth and repair. The team aims to use this scaffold to encourage nerve regeneration by delivering a significant concentration of folate locally.
A recent study published in Nutrients suggests that regular quinoa consumption can help prevent type 2 diabetes. Researchers replaced carbohydrate-rich foods with quinoa and found a significant reduction in post-meal blood sugar spikes. By mitigating this spike, quinoa may play a crucial role in preventing the progression of type 2 dia...
Research at the University of Reading found that high-dose Vitamin B6 supplementation reduced feelings of anxiety and depression in young adults. The study links Vitamin B6 to its calming effect on the brain, which may help alleviate mood disorders.
Research from the University of Georgia suggests that a diet rich in bright-colored fruits and vegetables, particularly those high in lutein and zeaxanthin, can help prevent visual and cognitive loss in women. This is due to the antioxidant properties of these carotenoids, which have been shown to improve central nervous system degener...
A study of over 1000 consumers from Australia and NZ found that 27% would pay nearly double the price for 'healthy' drinks with low/no sugar, natural/no additives, or vitamins and minerals. Younger consumers (18-24 years) are more likely to be interested in healthy drinks.
A systematic review of 84 studies found insufficient evidence that multivitamins or supplements can prevent cardiovascular disease and cancer in healthy adults. In contrast, diet and exercise are key to maintaining health. Whole fruits and vegetables contain a mixture of vitamins, phytochemicals, fiber, and other nutrients that act syn...
A randomized clinical trial found that micronutrient supplementation improved attention and mood in children with ADHD, with a 54% response rate compared to 18% in the placebo group. The study also showed significant growth benefits in children taking the supplement.
A pioneering study led by the University of Bristol found that humans have 'nutritional wisdom,' choosing foods to meet their need for vitamins and minerals. The study suggests that people combine meals in a way that increases exposure to micronutrients, contradicting the long-held view that humans evolved to favor energy-dense foods.
A recent study found that farms using regenerative agriculture have healthier crops with higher levels of minerals, vitamins, and phytochemicals. The research suggests that the key lies in the biology of the soil, where microbes and fungi play a crucial role in boosting beneficial compounds.
A comprehensive review of watermelon consumption has found evidence that eating watermelon regularly may promote cardiovascular and metabolic health. The fruit contains essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids that support blood pressure regulation, lipid reduction, and glucose control.
A study found that one in five cancer survivors mistakenly believed taking vitamins could reduce the risk of cancer return. Those who thought supplements reduced recurrence were three times more likely to take them. Healthcare professionals must advise patients on safe dietary supplement use.
Researchers from The Ohio State University developed a novel method to supplement cow milk with vegetable protein using readily available dairy processing equipment. This innovation combines the benefits of casein micelles with pea protein to create functional, multisourced dairy products that can help bolster declining fluid milk sale...
Researchers have developed plant-based gummy candies packed with vitamins B12 and D3, addressing nutritional deficiencies in vegan and vegetarian diets. The new product was well-received by taste testers, paving the way for more nutritious food options.
A new study using a computational model found that cutting food waste would provide enough protein and energy to feed the growing population but fall short in terms of micronutrients like calcium, iron, and vitamin E. Researchers emphasize the need for attention to essential vitamins and minerals to address global nutritional needs.
The study found that adding a serving of mushrooms to the diet increased several micronutrients, including potassium, copper, selenium, and B vitamins. The addition of oyster mushrooms also increased vitamin D levels. Mushrooms exposed to UV-light significantly boosted vitamin D intake.
A study by Christine Costello and colleagues found that urban agriculture in Chicago made little difference in reducing land area needed to supply nutritional needs. However, adding certain vitamins as supplements could make locally raised food sufficient for residents within a smaller radius.
A new study from the University of Bristol suggests that vitamins D, K, and A could help combat COVID-19 by binding to the viral Spike protein. This reduces SARS-CoV-2 infectivity, while high cholesterol may enable the virus. Researchers identified potential antiviral drug candidates among approved pharmaceuticals and dietary components.
Researchers are using plant breeding and genetic engineering to develop less allergenic varieties of wheat and peanuts. They focus on reducing gluten content in wheat and one specific protein that regulates gluten production, aiming to increase food options for people with allergies.
A recent study published in EMBO Molecular Medicine found that a vegan diet significantly alters the metabolism of young children, leading to lower levels of vitamins A and D, cholesterol forms, essential amino acids, and docosahexaenoic acid. However, folate levels were surprisingly high in these children.
Reed beetles form symbiotic relationships with bacteria that provide essential amino acids, vitamins, and enzymes to support larval development. Adult beetles also rely on these microbes for pectin breakdown, which enables them to access nutrient-rich plant sources.
A recent study published in Nutrients suggests that daily multivitamins with high doses of vitamin C and vitamin D can help fight off infections. The researchers recommend taking 200mg or more of vitamin C and 2,000 international units of vitamin D to support immune function.