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Perceived barriers limit WIC CVV use in Arizona

A recent study found that low-income communities and WIC participants in Arizona face significant barriers when using cash value vouchers for purchasing nutrient-dense foods. These barriers include negative interactions with cashiers and lack of training, which can lead to frustration and decreased access to healthy food options.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateMay 6, 2014

Take the bat, leave the candy

Researchers found that high-calorie snacks and sugar-sweetened drinks dominate the youth baseball scene, contributing to weight problems among children. The study suggests that parents and sports leagues should plan ahead and advocate for policies addressing snack and drink options.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalChildhood Obesity·DateApr 24, 2014

Biting vs. chewing

A Cornell study published in Eating Behaviors found that children aged 6-10 who ate whole foods like drumsticks and apples were twice as likely to disobey adults and exhibit aggressive behavior compared to those eating cut-up foods. The researchers suggest cutting food can help reduce rowdy behavior at mealtime.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalEating Behaviors·DateApr 22, 2014

Lifestyle determines gut microbes

Researchers analyzed the gut microbiota of Hadza hunter-gatherers, revealing a unique microbial profile that supports their adaptation to a foraging subsistence pattern. The study found differences in gut microbiota between sexes, reflecting sexual division of labor and having implications for fertility and reproductive success.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 15, 2014

Experience helps restaurant managers stick with local foods

A study found that restaurant chefs and food purchasing managers prefer buying local foods with quick response times, accurate labeling, and training staff on local food handling. This was revealed in a Penn State research project investigating management's attitudes toward purchasing locally grown foods.

SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Hospitality Management·DateApr 7, 2014

Fruit-loving lemurs score higher on spatial memory tests

A study by researchers at Duke University found that fruit-eating lemur species excel in spatial memory tests, demonstrating a strong link between diet and cognitive abilities. The findings suggest that lemurs with diets rich in fruits, which are seasonally available and often hard to access, develop superior spatial memory skills.

SourceDuke University·JournalAnimal Cognition·DateFeb 21, 2014

Food & moods

Researchers found that individuals in positive moods prefer healthy foods for long-term health benefits, while those in negative moods opt for indulgent foods for immediate mood management. The studies suggest that perspective on time plays a crucial role in food choice, with people in positive moods considering future health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateFeb 18, 2014

Scientific review points to supplement users engaging in a pattern of healthy habits

A new review published in Nutrition Journal found that dietary supplement users engage in various healthy habits, such as consuming healthier diets and exercising regularly. The study also showed that supplement users tend to make better food choices and incorporate supplements into their lifestyle as part of a broader focus on wellness.

SourceCouncil for Responsible Nutrition·JournalNutrition Journal·DateFeb 6, 2014

Time is of the essence

A Weizmann Institute of Science study reveals that daily fluctuations in triglycerides in the liver are driven by internal 'body clocks' and timing of meals. Researchers found that restricting nighttime feeding led to a 50% decrease in liver TAG levels, suggesting that meal times can affect lipid accumulation.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalCell Metabolism·DateFeb 5, 2014

Could your relationship with your mom increase your child's chances of obesity?

A study by the University of Illinois found that parents with an insecure attachment style are more likely to respond to their child's distress by becoming distressed themselves or dismissing their emotions. This can lead to unhealthy eating habits, including comfort feeding, fewer family mealtimes, and excessive TV viewing. The resear...

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateJan 30, 2014