Fussy eating prevents mongoose family feuds
New research shows that banded mongooses living in large groups adopt specialized diets to avoid fighting over food. This adaptation allows them to reduce competition and maintain group harmony.
Foods
Articles tagged with Foods
Fiber-fermenting bacteria improve health of type 2 diabetes patients
A high-fiber diet promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria that improve blood glucose control and reduce inflammation in people with type 2 diabetes. The study found that only 15 strains of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria are driven by a fiber-rich diet, leading to better insulin production and weight loss.
How cats and dogs are consuming and processing parabens
Researchers found that pets consuming parabens through their diet have increased exposure to diseases, such as diabetes and kidney disease. The study analyzed commercial pet food and urine samples from dogs and cats, revealing high concentrations of methyl paraben and its metabolite in both food and urine.
Logo recognition associated with kids' choice of international junk foods
A new study from the University of Maryland School of Public Health found that kids who easily identified international food logos preferred them over local options. The research team gathered data from 2422 children in six countries, showing a strong association between logo recognition and junk food preferences.
Poor mothers face greater scrutiny over their children's weight
A new study found that low-income mothers, especially black and Latina mothers, are subject to greater scrutiny over their children's weight. The mothers worry about losing custody of their kids if they can't meet the health standards.
Spicing it up: High school students may prefer seasoned veggies over plain
Researchers found that high school students preferred seasoned vegetables, except for sweet potatoes, and the seasonings were developed specifically with school dietary guidelines in mind. This simple recipe modification could result in more students eating vegetables and less food waste in schools.
Permian carbo-loading: How starchy treats helped build an ancient world
Scientists have found fossilized starch granules on ancient plant megaspores, suggesting they were used as a spore-dispersal device. This discovery provides early evidence for mutualism between plants and animals in the Permian period.
Researchers: Participants' freedom made Restaurant Day world's largest food carnival
A study published in Journal of Consumer Research reveals that Restaurant Day's success lies in its democratic approach, where every participant was essential. The event attracted diverse people and transformed into a global phenomenon, celebrating restaurant culture and gastronomy without bureaucratic red tape.
Cochrane Review evidence suggests nutritional labelling on menus may reduce calorie intake
A Cochrane Review found that nutritional labelling on menus and next to food in restaurants, coffee shops, and cafeterias could reduce calorie consumption by about 8% per meal. The review combined results from three studies where calorie labels were added to menus or put next to food, showing a reduction in calories consumed.
Food insecurity screening works, but social stigma stands in its way
A food insecurity screening at pediatrician's offices was found to be effective but struggled with referrals due to fear of Child Protective Services and complicated processes. The study recommends better communication and connecting families with immediate resources to alleviate social stigma and improve outcomes.
Research shows food deprivation and moderate aerobic exercise may enhance endurance
A new study suggests that intermittent dietary energy restriction during daily moderate aerobic exercise training enhances endurance performance in mice. This finding implies that shifting the muscle fuel source from carbohydrates to fats and ketones may improve endurance.
SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateFeb 27, 2018
Sweet, bitter, fat: Genetics play a role in kids' snacking patterns, study finds
A University of Guelph study found that genetic variants in taste receptors influence the snacks chosen by preschoolers. Nearly 80% of kids carried at-risk genotypes, leading to a high intake of calories from sugar and fat.
Study offers more food for thought on kids' eating habits, emotions
A University of Texas at Dallas psychologist found that children aged 4.5-9 years prefer chocolate over goldfish crackers in response to both happiness and sadness. The study suggests that emotional eating habits develop during the preschool period, influenced by social environment and parental feeding practices.
Clean plates much more common when we eat at home
A new study by Ohio State University found that adults waste significantly less food when preparing their own meals versus consuming pre-packaged, boxed lunches. In the study, participants who cooked their own meals averaged only 3.5% of plate waste compared to 40% in a lab setting.
Low FODMAP diet could provide relief for patients with irritable bowel syndrome
The low FODMAP diet shows promise in treating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) by avoiding common trigger foods like wheat, onions, and apples. Clinical trials indicate that 50-80% of subjects respond positively to the diet.
Exposure to chemical found in plastics 'hard to avoid' in everyday life
A recent study by the University of Exeter found that 86% of teenagers have traces of Bisphenol A (BPA) in their bodies. Despite a BPA-free diet, participants saw no significant drop in exposure levels, highlighting the need for better labelling of products containing the chemical.
Mediterranean diet may help women receiving IVF to achieve successful pregnancies
Researchers found that women following a Mediterranean-style diet before IVF had a 65-68% greater likelihood of achieving a successful pregnancy and birth compared to those with the lowest adherence. The study suggests that a healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, may help increase chances of fertility.
SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateJan 29, 2018
To improve self-control, call weight loss what it is: Difficult
Researchers at Drexel University found that telling people weight loss is difficult can actually motivate them to shed more weight in the short-term. However, this approach did not lead to long-term changes in unhealthy foods at home. The study suggests that modifying the home food environment, rather than just providing diet advice, i...
Fat cat? Here's how much to feed to lose weight
A new study from the University of Illinois explains what it takes to get a cat to slim down, targeting a safe level of weight loss and maintaining lean mass. The researchers found that reducing food intake by 20% compared to a maintenance diet was necessary to achieve this goal.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Veterinary Research·DateJan 24, 2018
Study finds a third of households -- double previous estimates -- struggle to get food
A new study from Ohio State University found that nearly a third of households in Columbus struggled with food insecurity, exceeding previous estimates. The research highlighted disparities in access to healthful foods, particularly in low-income and racially diverse neighborhoods.
New 'Buck' naked barley: Food, feed, brew
Researchers at Oregon State University developed a new 'Buck' naked barley variety with high yields and nutrition, making it suitable for human consumption, animal feed and brewing. The barley's unique characteristics enable it to thrive with less fertilizer and water.
Teens likely to crave junk food after watching TV ads
A study by Cancer Research UK found that teens who watch TV with adverts are more likely to eat unhealthy foods like crisps, biscuits, and fizzy drinks, consuming up to 500 extra snacks a year. The report suggests that reducing junk food TV marketing could help halt the obesity crisis.
Fast food makes the immune system more aggressive in the long term
A recent study by the University of Bonn found that fast food can make the immune system more aggressive in the long term. Even after switching to a healthy diet, inflammation remains higher, potentially leading to diseases like arteriosclerosis and diabetes.
Junk food tax is legally and administratively viable, finds new analysis
Researchers at NYU College of Global Public Health and Tufts' Friedman School examine options for categorizing and taxing junk food. A federal excise tax on manufacturers appears feasible, with potential benefits in reducing disease burden from unhealthy food consumption.
Grant to fund nutrition education for preschoolers
The American Heart Association funded a three-year study to investigate the effect of a low energy dense diet on preschoolers. The researchers provided nutrition education to over 230 children at seven local preschools, aiming to improve their dietary choices.
Juggling bills may be key at-risk indicator for food insecurity
A new study from the University of Illinois reveals that people who are juggling bills and using financial coping strategies may be at risk for food insecurity. The researchers used data from the Hunger in America 2014 survey to show that these strategies can help identify individuals who are very food insecure or at risk.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Consumer Affairs·DateDec 18, 2017
People with Type 2 diabetes need more support, say researchers
A new study suggests that providing healthy food and regular support is crucial for helping people with Type 2 diabetes control their condition. The research found that three specific behaviour change techniques - problem solving, feedback on behavior, and social comparison - can be effective in supporting individuals.
Your mood depends on the food you eat, and what you should eat changes as you get older
A study found that young adults rely on food increasing neurotransmitter precursors like meat for a mood boost, while mature adults require antioxidant-rich foods and avoidance of stress-activating foods to maintain good mental health. Regular consumption of these specific foods can help prevent mental distress.
Appetite-suppressing neurons
Scientists discovered an anorexigenic neural circuit involving medial septal complex and paraventricular hypothalamus projections, associated with reduced nighttime and daytime food intake in mice. The study suggests a potential new approach to treating eating disorders without inducing maladaptive behaviors.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 11, 2017
The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology: Drug combined with food desensitization may help to relieve allergies for children with multiple food allergies
A clinical trial found that combining an antibody drug with food desensitization treatment improved allergy relief for children with multiple food allergies. The treatment, omalizumab, showed promising results in reducing allergic reactions when introducing small amounts of trigger foods into their diet.
Nanomaterials: How to separate linear and ring-shaped molecules
Researchers developed an automatized strategy to separate circular molecules from their linear counterparts using microfluidic channels decorated with attractive spots. This separation technology is crucial for analyzing topology in biological systems and developing new materials.
Seeing isn't believing: Penn biologists show how to shut off hunger 'alarm system'
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania discovered that nutrients regulate the brain's hunger alarm system. By associating unfamiliar foods with low calorie content, mice can temporarily turn off the neurons responsible for hunger, providing a potential therapeutic strategy for reducing overeating and obesity.
New report: European science academies call for urgent action on food and nutrition security
The report highlights the need for Europe to change its diet to improve consumer health and mitigate climate change. Scientists recommend decreasing animal protein consumption, introducing new incentives for affordable nutrition, and promoting sustainable agriculture practices.
SourceEuropean Academies' Science Advisory Council, Leopoldina - Nationale Akademie der Wissenschaften·DateDec 5, 2017
Can a rude waiter make your food less tasty?
Research by Jaehoon Lee suggests that lower class individuals are more likely to assume food will be less delicious due to poor service, while higher class people do not typically make this assumption. This holistic view of life creates a 'carryover effect', leading to negative judgments about other aspects of the consumer experience.
Effects of ethnocentrism on consumers
The study investigates how consumer ethnocentrism influences the purchase of food products with local, regional, or traditional features. It finds that consumers highly value these products and their levels of ethnocentrism are sometimes related to effective purchases.
Tempting your taste buds: Food cues entice consumers to overeat
A University of Michigan study found that food-related cues stimulate brain activity, leading to overeating among some participants. The study revealed that such cues have little impact on liking or pleasure derived from eating.
Disordered eating among young adults found to have long-term negative health effects
A recent study from the University of Helsinki found that disordered eating among young adults has significant long-term negative health effects, including higher body weight, lower psychological wellbeing, and a lower self-evaluation of general health. Early recognition and treatment are crucial to mitigate these effects.
After cooking, biofortified corn and eggs retain nutrient needed to prevent blindness
Scientists found that biofortified corn flour retained the highest percentage of carotenoids after boiling, while deep-fried cornmeal puffs lost most of the compounds. Cooking methods like microwaving, pan-frying, and hard-boiling eggs also preserved carotenoids, but scrambling caused some destruction.
Livestock, food supply, and greenhouse gases
A study models the effects of removing farmed animals from the US agricultural system on food production and greenhouse gas emissions. Removing animals resulted in increased food availability, but also led to nutrient deficiencies and reduced GHG emissions by 28%. The removal of animals had unintended consequences on the food supply
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 13, 2017
Crunch time for food security
Insect-based food sources present a significant nutritional opportunity due to their high levels of animal protein and key micronutrients. However, the nutritional quality of insects is influenced by their diet and environmental impact remains a concern.
Study shows that the consumption of antioxidant-rich foods is associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes
A recent study published in Diabetologia found that a diet rich in antioxidants, particularly from fruits and vegetables, tea, and moderate alcohol consumption, is associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. Women with the highest antioxidant scores had a 27% reduced risk compared to those with the lowest scores.
Study lists foods for fighting rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and progression
A new study lists beneficial foods for managing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and progression, including blueberries, ginger, and green tea. Patients can support disease management through food and diet without harmful side effects.
'Golden' potato delivers bounty of vitamins A and E
A golden potato engineered to be more nutritious than white potatoes has the potential to prevent disease and death in developing countries. The yellow-orange tuber provides up to 42% of a child's recommended daily intake of vitamin A and 34% of vitamin E.
Take charge, wine lovers, and trust your palate
A Michigan State University study found that people fit into specific 'vinotypes' based on their food and beverage preferences. The researchers recommend that servers and sommeliers consider these preferences when suggesting a wine. By trusting their own palate, consumers can make informed choices about wine pairings.
SourceMichigan State University·JournalInternational Journal of Wine Business Research·DateNov 7, 2017
NIH funds research to fight Alzheimer's disease with anti-inflammatory diet
Researchers will study the effects of a multicultural healthy diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods on cognitive function and inflammation. The study aims to assess whether this diet can reduce cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease risk in middle-aged and older participants.
Calorie counts on menus make a difference
A comprehensive study reveals that displaying calories on menus reduces consumer calorie intake by 27 calories per meal, while retailers respond by offering more low-calorie options.
The fight against obesity: To tax or not to tax?
The prevalence of obesity in the UK has almost doubled over two decades, with food taxes being suggested as a measure to correct this trend. However, experts disagree on its effectiveness, with some arguing it is too simplistic and overlooks other factors influencing obesity.
Saliva proteins could explain why some people overuse salt
A study found that people who can easily taste salt have differing amounts of salivary proteins than those who are less sensitive. This could lead to the development of more palatable low-sodium foods.
Spicy food may curb unhealthy cravings for salt
A new study found that Chinese adults who enjoyed spicy foods ate less salt and had lower blood pressure, suggesting a potential health benefit. The study linked spice preference to brain activity in regions involved in salty taste, supporting the idea that spices can reduce salt consumption.
Lemurs are weird because Madagascar's fruit is weird
A new study reveals that Madagascar's fruit is too low in protein for lemurs to sustain themselves, prompting them to adopt a leafy diet and develop unusual behaviors like hibernation. The research sheds light on the evolution of lemurs' dietary habits and highlights their unique characteristics.
Food should be marketed as a 'meal' rather than a 'snack' to avoid overeating
A recent study published in the journal Appetite found that marketing food as a 'meal' rather than a 'snack' can lead to reduced consumption and overeating. Researchers discovered that participants who consumed pasta labelled as a 'snack' ate more at a subsequent taste test compared to those who had eaten it as a 'meal'. This suggests ...
Sidetracked by a donut?
A recent study published in Psychonomic Bulletin & Review found that calorie-dense foods are more distracting than low-calorie foods or everyday objects, even if they are not related to food. The researchers used a distraction paradigm to test how participants' thoughts and cognition relate to their eating habits.
UMass Amherst researchers find triclosan and other chemicals accumulate in toothbrushes
Researchers found triclosan accumulates in nylon bristles and is easily released when switching toothpaste types, exposing users to unregulated doses. Other chemicals like BHT and methyl salicylate also accumulate in toothbrushes.
SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateOct 25, 2017
Feel fuller, longer with mushrooms
A new study found that eating a mushroom-rich breakfast resulted in less hunger and a greater feeling of fullness compared to a meat breakfast. The study also showed that mushrooms can be as satiating as meat when protein levels are matched, indicating potential benefits for weight management and overall wellness.
New obesity treatment lowers body weight in mice, rats and primates
Researchers developed an engineered protein therapy based on the GDF15 molecule to treat obesity. The treatment successfully lowered body weights, insulin levels, and cholesterol in obese mice, rats, and primates.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 18, 2017
Omega-6 fats may help prevent type 2 diabetes
A new study published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology suggests that a diet rich in omega-6 polyunsaturated fats may significantly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Researchers found that individuals with higher levels of linoleic acid, the major omega-6 fat, had a lower chance of developing type 2 diabetes.
SourceGeorge Institute for Global Health·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateOct 11, 2017
Calorie postings on menus cause more health mentions in online restaurant reviews
A study found that calorie postings on menus lead to a significant increase in health-related discussions in online restaurant reviews, suggesting potential spillovers towards healthier restaurants. The result indicates that calorie posting can shift consumers towards healthier alternatives not only inside but also outside the restaurant.
SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·DateOct 9, 2017
Brain cells that control appetite identified for first time
Scientists at the University of Warwick have identified tanycytes, key brain cells controlling appetite, which detect amino acids in food and inform the brain about fullness. Eating foods high in specific amino acids can activate these cells, leading to feelings of fullness and potentially aiding weight management.
Individualized diets for irritable bowel syndrome better than placebo
Researchers at Yale University found that individualized diets based on food sensitivity testing significantly improved symptoms in patients with irritable bowel syndrome compared to a placebo. The study suggests that tailored dietary approaches may be a viable alternative to traditional treatments.
Wireless food stamp transactions tied to healthier shopping
New research from NYU Langone Health links wireless food stamp transactions to the buying of more healthy foods by people with low incomes. On average, SNAP beneficiaries purchased 5.4 more cups of fruits and vegetables when using EBT-equipped vendors compared to similar shoppers who paid with cash.
SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalPreventing Chronic Disease·DateSep 18, 2017