Articles tagged with Foods
A Cornell University-led team has created a roadmap for global agricultural and food systems innovation, reform, and sustainability to address food crises and climate change. The report outlines seven major recommendations to make the world's agri-food systems healthy, equitable, resilient, and sustainable.
A study reveals distinct dietary patterns in ancient Huaca Prieta and Paredones communities in north coastal Peru, with Paredones adults consuming high amounts of maize and terrestrial meat. The findings suggest diet differences may have facilitated resource exchange and economic specialization between nearby communities.
The new 'green Med' diet contains more plant-based foods, green tea, and Mankai (duckweed) than the traditional version. After six months, those on the green Med diet lost more weight, had lower waist circumference, and improved cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors.
A study analyzed 250 top-grossing US movies from 1994-2018, comparing the nutritional quality of food and beverage depictions to dietary guidelines. The findings indicate that movie foods often exceed recommended levels of calories, added sugars, and saturated fats.
Researchers found that displaying PAE labels alongside the Healthier Choice Symbol reduced its effectiveness in encouraging consumers to buy healthier options. The Healthier Choice Symbol alone led to a 5% increase in purchasing healthier products, but combining it with PAE labels had little impact.
A new global study from the University of Sydney found evidence of undernutrition in countries worldwide, with optimal supplies changing with age. For early life, high fat and protein supplies minimize mortality, while later life reduces fat and increases carbohydrate intake leads to lowest mortality rates.
A high-sugar diet reprograms taste cells in fruit flies, leaving a lasting molecular memory that affects future eating behavior. The researchers found that the molecular memory is persistent even after switching to healthy diets, leading to changes in gene expression that impact sweet taste perception.
A high-sugar diet in fruit flies reprograms sweet taste receptors, reducing sensitivity to sweetness and promoting unhealthy eating habits. The study suggests that this epigenetic change may contribute to obesity and chronic diseases.
A randomized controlled trial found that regular walnut consumption reduced inflammation in healthy older adults, associated with lower risk of heart disease. The study suggests walnuts' anti-inflammatory effects may provide a mechanistic explanation for cardiovascular disease reduction.
A brief five-week pilot intervention improved preschoolers' behavioral regulation and liking of fruits and vegetables. The study found significant gains in these skills among children who received the intervention, compared to those who did not.
Researchers outline the benefits of tropical fruits in terms of nutrition and discuss barriers to scaling up supply. Smallholder farmers and marginalized groups can benefit from tree-sourced food sources, which can also provide ecosystem services like carbon sequestration.
A new study published in Science finds that greenhouse gas emissions from the global food system could lead to a 1.5°C temperature increase by mid-century and 2°C by the end of the century. Transforming farming practices, eating habits, and reducing food waste are crucial to achieving climate goals.
A study of ancient China's staple cereals reveals a complex history of environmental and cultural influences on food systems. Researchers analyzed isotopic data from human skeletal samples to infer patterns of changing cuisines over time and space.
Researchers found that culinary traditions, such as boiling or steaming grains, influenced the adoption of novel crops like wheat and barley in central China. The north-south dietary distinction emerged around 8,000 years ago, with millet being a staple grain in the north and rice and other foods in the south.
Diets high in proinflammatory foods increase heart disease and stroke risk, while anti-inflammatory diets like the Mediterranean diet lower inflammation levels. Consuming antioxidant-rich foods and limiting processed meats can help combat inflammation.
Red foxes show dietary specialization, with country foxes having a broader diet than urban conspecifics. Urban foxes primarily feed on discarded food, indicating an abundant food supply.
A study published in Clinical Nutrition found that individuals with type 2 diabetes can better maintain overnight glycemic control when eating high GI potatoes compared to low GI basmati rice. The researchers suggest that potatoes can be a sustainable and nutrient-dense food option for people with T2D.
Researchers found that consuming flavanol-rich foods and drinks, such as tea and apples, can lead to significant reductions in blood pressure. The study used objective measures of thousands of UK residents' diet and found a comparable effect to Mediterranean and DASH diets.
A nutritional supplement called SPIN is being developed to support the immune system in fighting against SARS-CoV-2. The supplement contains wheat germ polyamine and eugenol, which have been shown to have antiviral properties and may help reduce the severity of symptoms.
A study found that carnivores near people consume over half of their diets from human food sources, disrupting ecosystems. This reliance increases competition among predators, potentially leading to conflicts and detrimental ecological consequences.
Research shows that Impala's mixed feeding strategy makes them abundant despite non-migratory nature, rivaling migratory grazers like wildebeest. This adaptation helps them thrive in savannas with seasonal food availability changes.
A study suggests that reducing indirect greenhouse gas emissions from UC campus food systems can be achieved through a shift towards more plant-based options. The researchers found that changing the food system could reduce emissions by 42-55% and align with the system's carbon neutrality goals.
A randomized controlled trial found that restricting merchandising of unhealthy products in stores reduced the purchase of sugar sweetened drinks and confectionery by 2.8%, resulting in a reduction of free sugar purchased from food and drinks by 2.8%. Despite these reductions, business performance was unaffected.
A new study assesses nutrition-related features on leading US grocery store websites, finding that 85% of packaged foods have available nutrition facts panels and ingredient statements. However, key information is not always easily accessible or legible, particularly for mandatory labeling on product packaging.
A recent study led by ASU researcher Chris Wharton found that a values-based intervention can reduce household food waste by an average of 28%. The intervention used clear plastic bins to track food waste and highlighted the impact of cost, health, and environmental concerns. Participants reported that watching their waste build up pro...
Researchers at the University of South Australia found that increasing meal sizes can improve nutrition intake among aged care residents. The study showed a correlation between portion size and food consumption, with each kilojoule increase in served energy resulting in a 0.73 kilojoule increase in consumed energy.
A laboratory study replicates common restaurant noise levels and shows that even 'normal' background noise can be unpleasant to diners. The study suggests noise management strategies, including quiet dining areas for older and noise-sensitive individuals, to improve dining experiences.
The FoodLAND project is developing innovations for local agriculture and aquaculture development in six African countries, aiming to strengthen agro-biodiversity and healthy diets. The project will create a network of 14 local Food Hubs to mobilise actors in rural and urban communities, testing and introducing technological innovations.
Researchers have discovered a new species of truffle, Hysterangium bonobo, which is prized by bonobos and has crystal-encrusted filaments. The find highlights the vast fungal diversity in the region and emphasizes the importance of indigenous knowledge in scientific discoveries.
New research highlights the devastating impact of COVID-19 on food security in Kenya and Uganda, with more than two-thirds of respondents experiencing economic hardship. The study found that food insecurity increased by 38% and 44% in both countries, leading to reduced consumption of fruits and other essential nutrients.
A new study analyzing 16 years of data on tens of thousands of products found that the adoption of nutrition data on 'front of package' (FOP) labels is associated with improved nutritional content. FOP labeling was linked to a 12.5% reduction in calories, 12.97% reduction in saturated fat, and other improvements in nutrients.
A new study reveals that species are better equipped to thrive in both abundant and scarce food environments, contradicting the long-held 'gleaner-exploiter' trade-off theory. The researchers argue that a risk-taking trade-off to access food is more likely, explaining the diversity of biological species.
Researchers surveyed local families and stakeholders to find effective strategies for addressing disparities in healthy food consumption. Key findings include increasing affordability, nutrition education, and mobile produce markets as preferred approaches.
Researchers at UBC Okanagan found breadfruit protein is easier to digest than wheat, promoting healthy growth rates and body composition in mice. The study supports the use of breadfruit as part of a balanced diet due to its gluten-free, low glycemic index and nutrient-dense profile.
A new algorithm developed by Cornell researchers improves the efficient distribution of food resources among patrons, boosting nutrition levels. The Food Bank of the Southern Tier saw a 7.73% increase in efficiency from 2018 to 2019 using the optimized allocation system.
A University of South Australia researcher explores how Italian culture influences women's relationships with food, finding that 'food is everything' and 'making a good impression' are central themes. The study highlights the need for culturally sensitive support to address disordered eating among migrant women.
A study published in The BMJ found that eating foods with a poor Nutri-Score score is associated with higher mortality rates from all causes and specific diseases. The findings support the use of Nutri-Score to guide people towards healthier food choices, which could inform discussions on uniform food labelling systems across Europe.
A study by Tufts University researchers estimates that some but not all US metro areas could grow all the food they need locally, based on population, geography, and diet. The modeling study suggests that reducing animal products in the diet can increase the potential to produce sufficient food for a metro area.
A study has discovered that unglazed ceramic cookware can retain the residue of not just the last meal cooked, but potentially earlier dishes, allowing for the reconstruction of ancient recipes. The research team analyzed chemical compounds adhering to and absorbed by the earthenware in which they were prepared.
A San group in Namibia faces malnutrition due to a dysfunctional local food system, with no agency over food sources and limited access to traditional foods. The researchers recommend context-specific solutions, including eliminating movement restrictions and supporting traditional foodways to supplement diets with key nutritional groups.
A small study using mobile eye-tracking technology found that normal-weight consumers noticed and looked at their chosen food earlier and longer than those with overweight or obesity. The researchers also discovered a tendency for all consumers to focus on lower-energy-density foods like fruits and vegetables more often.
Researchers found that these diets help with short-term weight loss, but may not be effective in preventing heart disease. Established nutritional guidelines are recommended for better cardiovascular health, according to the study.
A study of 1177 UK adults found that eating more in the evening is associated with a higher total energy intake and lower diet quality. The research suggests that consuming a lower proportion of calories at night may lead to a lower daily energy intake.
The EAT-Lancet Report proposes a universal healthy reference diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, but implementing this change requires unprecedented global cooperation. Policymakers must prioritize food systems as a top development agenda to realize the recommendations laid out in the report.
Research suggests that not all vegetarian diets are created equal, with healthier choices linked to maintaining normal blood pressure, blood lipids, and blood sugar. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and olive oil were found to be key contributors to better heart health.
A year-long cooking experiment found that charred remains, inner surface residues, and lipids absorbed within the ceramic walls record cooking events across different time scales. This provides insights into ancient culinary practices, resource usage, and vessel lifespan.
A new AI app aims to improve the diets and nutrition of adolescent girls in urban settings in Ghana and Vietnam. The app will use machine learning to analyze users' food consumption, provide personalized dietary advice, and encourage healthy eating habits.
New research found that pasta consumption in both children and adults is associated with a better diet quality and better nutrient intakes. Pasta-eaters showed a beneficial weight-related outcome, particularly in adult females, with reduced waist circumference, body weight, and body mass index.
Researchers analyzed fossilized teeth of ancient herbivores to reveal dietary shifts from woody vegetation to grasses and sedges, around 2.7-2 million years ago. The findings suggest that behavioral dietary changes can precede apparent morphological adaptations in hominins.
Researchers analyzed stable carbon isotope data from hominin fossils to determine the timing of dietary shifts. The study found that Paranthropus robustus and boisei had different diets, with P. boisei consuming C4-plant-based foods.
A recent survey of pediatricians found significant variability in recommendations for solid food introduction, leading experts to question the relevance of current guidelines. The long waiting period may delay peanut introduction and limit food diversity, which can decrease the development of allergic diseases in infants.
A food-based approach using clinically-proven diet interventions can significantly lower cholesterol levels and reduce healthcare costs. The study found that successfully managing hyperlipidemia with Step One Foods could lead to billions of medical savings annually for the entire Medicare privately insured population.
Research from the University of Sussex found that participants who watched TV while performing a demanding task ate more snacks regardless of calorie content. However, those who engaged less in tasks consumed fewer snacks. The study suggests that distracted attention affects satiety cues and eating habits.
A new study finds that Front-of-Pack labelling on food products leads to a reduction in the quantity of labelled store-branded food purchased and an overall improvement in nutritional composition of consumers' shopping baskets. The study, published in the Journal of Health Economics, shows significant improvements in poorer households.
A new scientific statement from the American Heart Association recommends incorporating dietary screening into routine health care visits. The goal is to assess an individual's total dietary pattern and provide actionable next steps, helping patients set achievable dietary goals.
A new study found that children's pester power significantly influences their family's dietary intake and parenting practices. The research suggests that children's influence on their homes may be an underdeveloped potential target for future interventions.
The study found that the Pacific Island Countries (PICTs) are vulnerable to food insecurity due to their reliance on global supply chains. However, researchers suggest that bolstering local production and intraregional trade can strengthen the food system and protect against malnutrition. The PICTs have the potential to rely on traditi...
A new study by Flinders University researchers highlights the importance of sustainable food choices, which not only benefit individuals but also the environment. The study found that people who participate in community gardening or local food swaps experience improved mental health and social connections.
A Rutgers study suggests that companies commercializing cell-based seafood products should use the term 'cell-based' on product labels to meet FDA regulations. The study found that consumers view this name as equally nutritious and desirable as conventional seafood products, signaling a healthy, sustainable alternative.
A recent study by the University of Bath found that healthy adults can consume twice their normal calorie intake without experiencing immediate metabolic problems. The research revealed that blood sugar and lipid levels remained within normal ranges despite consuming large amounts of calories.