Research on food, its safety, and its effects. Covers nutrition advice and industry ties, meal timing, flavor chemistry, and plant-based diets.
A new study suggests that a modest reduction in carbohydrate consumption can promote loss of deep belly fat, even with little or no weight change. The study, which involved 69 overweight but healthy individuals, found that those on a moderately carb-restricted diet lost more total body fat during a weight loss phase.
The American Society for Microbiology warns that globalization is exposing the US food supply to unsanitary practices, particularly in seafood and fresh produce imports. The FDA inspects less than 1% of imported entries annually, highlighting the need for both government verification and industry responsibility.
A prospective study of 59,000 African American women found that those with diets rich in vegetables and fruit gained less weight than those with diets low in these foods. This association was strongest among younger women, who experienced significant weight gain over the 14-year period.
A clinical trial found that Metagenics' UltraMeal PLUS 360° is effective in lowering cardiovascular risk factors and resolving metabolic syndrome. The study showed a 40% increase in resolving metabolic syndrome compared to a Mediterranean-style diet alone.
A rigorous study found that video game playing leads to increased spontaneous food intake in male teens. The study measured energy expenditure and calorie consumption during a 1-h gaming session versus rest, revealing a net positive energy of 163 kcal when gaming was played.
Researchers from the University of Rochester Medical Center presented studies on nutritional insufficiencies, including supplement use, folate and niacin levels, and artificial food dye effects. The studies aim to identify effective interventions for children with autism spectrum disorders and explore potential environmental factors.
Access to fresh and healthy foods is crucial for long-term food security, according to Michelle Kaiser. Increasing local food production can reduce economic and environmental impacts of transporting food, enabling people to avoid processed, unhealthy foods.
A study published in Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior found that factors influencing children's use of and time spent in fast-food and full-service restaurants include parental work schedules and parenting styles. Fathers who frequently dine out with their kids tend to have a greater impact on their eating habits.
Overweight children and young adults are on the rise in Canada, with more than 60% of adults being overweight or obese. Legislative approaches, such as taxing junk food and improving nutritional labeling, are proposed to combat obesity.
Research from Purdue University found that consuming red pepper can manage appetite and burn more calories after a meal, especially for individuals who do not consume the spice regularly. Red pepper consumption increased core body temperature and reduced hunger for fatty, salty, and sweet foods in non-regular consumers.
Consumers tend to eat more indulgent food after seeing someone who is overweight, according to a study published in the Journal of Consumer Research. Thinking about personal health goals and reminding oneself of the link between eating and weight problems can help people avoid overindulging.
A new study published in the Journal of Consumer Research found that hopeful consumers are more likely to choose healthy snacks like fruit over unhealthy options like candy bars. The authors suggest that this is because hopeful individuals focus on the future, rather than dwelling on past experiences or present emotions.
New research shows older adults are consuming higher levels of carotenoids, flavonoids and other phytonutrients, with up to 80% higher intakes found among those aged 65+, compared to their younger peers. This increase in phytonutrient intake may offer protective health benefits for women, including breast and ovarian cancer prevention.
A new study in flies reveals that the sense of smell plays a crucial role in controlling appetite. When flies are starved for hours, their insulin levels drop dramatically, increasing the sensitivity of odor-sensitive neurons.
Researchers found that eating high amounts of protein made men who were trying to lose weight feel fuller throughout the day. The study also showed that larger meals led to reductions in appetite and feelings of fullness, contrary to the common trend of eating smaller, more frequent meals.
A new study found that the most toxic and brightly colored poison frog species are also physically fit, with higher aerobic capacity than their non-toxic cousins. This is due to their specialized diet of ants and mites, which requires them to forage further and exercise more.
A new study identifies 44 high-risk counties with high food insecurity and prices, requiring an estimated $56 monthly boost per person to meet food needs. The study highlights disproportionate impacts of hunger on Latino and American Indian populations.
Research published in The FASEB Journal found that rats whose mothers ate high-fat, high-sugar diets had babies that preferred similar foods. This study suggests that exposure to junk food during pregnancy and breastfeeding may shape a child's eating habits.
Recent study finds that adolescents at risk for obesity exhibit heightened brain activity when consuming palatable foods like chocolate milkshakes. This suggests that their brains may be more responsive to rewarding stimuli, potentially increasing the risk of overeating.
Researchers found that chronic stimulation of AgRP neurons induces weight gain by increasing food intake, while inhibition inhibits food intake. Stimulating AgRP neurons also triggers intense food seeking behavior.
A study found that binge eaters experience a spike in dopamine levels when exposed to their favorite foods, triggering a desire for more. This neurological response is distinct from other obese individuals who do not exhibit this reaction.
A new study found that the active ingredient in cannabis can help cancer patients regain their appetites and sense of taste. The study showed that THC-treated patients reported an increased appreciation of food, better quality of sleep, and relaxation compared to those receiving placebo.
A new study at UC Davis found that eating a high-fat meal can trigger inflammation in blood vessels, particularly in individuals with waist sizes over 32 inches and high triglyceride levels. This inflammation can lead to atherosclerosis and increase the risk of heart disease.
A study by Mario Pandelaere and colleagues found that consumers tend to perceive larger differences between ratings with higher numbers, not necessarily because of actual quantity. For instance, a 7-year warranty might seem more desirable than an 8-month one due to the arbitrary nature of unit representation.
A comprehensive review of fructose consumption found no association between fructose and increased food intake or body weight. The study concluded that normal amounts of fructose do not contribute to hyperlipidemia or obesity in either healthy or overweight individuals.
Researchers Pietro Cottone and Michael Silverstein have been awarded the prestigious National Institute of Mental Health Biobehavioral Research Awards for Innovative New Scientists (BRAINS) grant. They will explore mechanisms underlying addictive disorders, stress, and maternal depression using innovative approaches.
A high-fat, high-sugar processed food diet in early childhood may lower IQ, while a healthy diet rich in vitamins and nutrients may boost intelligence. Research based on over 14,000 children found a strong association between dietary patterns in childhood and IQ at age 8.
Researchers conclude that a special restricted diet should be included in the standard care for all children with ADHD. The diet, also known as the restricted elimination diet, was shown to significantly improve ADHD symptoms and oppositional defiant disorder symptoms in children aged 4-8 years.
A new study in Journal of Consumer Research found that people who feel depleted from exerting self-control tend to pass up the most desirable choices and opt for options with lower-level features. This is known as the 'easy path effect', where individuals prioritize short-term rewards over long-term benefits.
A study by Duke University found that mandatory menu labeling at Taco Time locations in King County, Washington, had no effect on consumer behavior. The study suggests that detailed nutritional information may not be enough to influence the obesity epidemic unless combined with other interventions.
Researchers at Penn State are designing a fast service lane option called meal deals for school cafeterias, which will limit the time spent in line and offer predetermined side selections. The goal is to create an environment where students can make healthier food choices by choosing familiar options.
Researchers at the University of Strathclyde are developing a new type of indicator made of 'intelligent plastics' that changes color when food is about to spoil, cutting unnecessary waste by up to 8.3 million tonnes in the UK each year. This technology aims to improve food safety and reduce the economic damage caused by food waste.
Researchers used fruit flies to investigate the function of intestinal neurons, finding that they regulate appetite and adjust water balance during reproduction. Intestinal changes triggered by reproductive hormones may provide a benefit in terms of nutrient absorption but could come at a cost: shorter lifespan.
A recent study by Case Western Reserve University reveals that misleading food labels can lead to excessive trans fat consumption and increased risk of deadly diseases. The FDA's current labeling protocol allows for 'zero grams' of trans fat, masking significant amounts that exceed recommended limits.
A Michigan State University study found that mothers' own eating habits and perceptions of their child as a 'picky eater' significantly impact whether their toddler consumes enough fruits and vegetables. Health professionals must consider these factors when developing strategies to promote healthy eating in children.
A Swedish study reveals that children are exposed to an average of 50 TV adverts for food per week, dominated by fast food and sweets. The research suggests a link between food advertising and unhealthy food choices among children.
The NIH-sponsored expert panel issued comprehensive guidelines to diagnose and manage food allergy, providing standardized recommendations for clinicians. The guidelines aim to improve the diagnosis and treatment of food allergy, which affects millions of Americans.
A Canadian study found that 22% of families with a child diagnosed with diabetes were food insecure, leading to poorer diabetes control and higher hospitalization rates. The researchers call for improved financial support and increased awareness among healthcare professionals to address this issue.
Biologists report that polar bears are unsuited for alternative diets in a warmer world, where they will come into competition with grizzly bears. The study suggests that polar bears' weaker skulls make them less competitive for resources.
Researchers found that inconsistent portion sizes contribute to people's uncertainty about eating appropriate amounts, leading to 'guiltless gluttony'. This effect is more pronounced when consumers are less concerned with accurate nutrition intake or have limited cognitive resources.
Adults who drink 100 percent fruit juice have improved nutrient intake, exceeding recommended levels for calcium and potassium, while meeting vitamin A and C needs. The study supports the role of fruit juice as a nutrient-dense beverage, encouraging its inclusion as part of a balanced diet.
Research shows that consuming in-shell pistachios slows consumption, allowing hunger cues to be activated, reducing overall calorie intake. Pistachios are a great snack for weight management due to their high protein and fiber content, making them a green and sustainable choice.
A Johns Hopkins University study found that hard work can enhance appreciation for food, even low-calorie options. Mice trained to navigate obstacle courses preferred harder-to-obtain snacks more, indicating that effort may change how good food tastes.
A two-year study found that children who approach food with emotional over-eating or boredom tend to be overweight, while those who avoid food due to fussiness or slow eating are more likely to be underweight. The researchers suggest that household environments and parental behaviors play a significant role in shaping these early food ...
A recent study by Penn State researchers found that restaurant patrons are willing to pay more for meals made with local ingredients. When the price of local options was 18% higher than non-local options, a higher proportion of customers chose the local meal.
The researchers aim to understand how animals, including humans, quickly adjust to unexpected events. By studying the sea slug's ability to adjust its eating behavior, they hope to develop mathematical models that can predict how patterns of activity in the nervous system change over time.
A study found that shoppers are more likely to buy unhealthy foods when paying with credit or debit cards. The authors suggest this is due to the psychological pain of payment, which can curb impulsive behavior. This connection may be linked to the rising obesity epidemic in the US.
A new study found that clenching muscles can increase willpower by activating the mind-body connection. Participants who tightened their muscles demonstrated greater ability to withstand pain and make healthy choices.
A study from the Monell Center reveals that salivary amylase activity shapes how people perceive starchy food textures. Variability in enzyme levels influences starch digestion and metabolism, potentially impacting insulin resistance and diabetes risk.
A new mobile phone game, OrderUP!, has been shown to change health behaviors after just three weeks of play. Players are tasked with making healthy food choices for virtual customers, leading to discussions about nutrition and changes in eating habits.
A 12-week study of 86 overweight participants found that all three groups lost weight when consuming five to seven servings of potatoes per week. The results suggest that potatoes, when prepared in a healthy manner, do not contribute to weight gain and can be part of a weight loss program.
Researchers found that mice exposed to dim light at night gained about 50% more body mass than those in a standard light-dark cycle. The study suggests that timing of eating is critical to weight gain and may be contributing to the obesity epidemic in Western countries.
Researchers found that individuals who dine at establishments labeled as healthy tend to underestimate their actual caloric consumption and subsequently indulge in high-calorie treats. To combat this effect, experts suggest doubling estimated calorie counts for meals served at these restaurants.
A year-long pilot study will assess the nutritional value of food offered in Lincoln Parish Schools, aiming to develop healthy student-approved menus. The study also explores behavior economics strategies to encourage students to make informed food choices.
A new report by The Nutrilite Health Institute found that only about a third of American women meet their fruit and vegetable intake recommendations, leading to potential health issues. Older women have higher total carotenoid intakes compared to younger women after accounting for caloric differences.
The USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture has awarded nearly $3.8 million to develop healthier food products for humanitarian assistance programs. These projects aim to improve the nutritional delivery and functional form of food aid products, particularly for infants and young children at risk for malnutrition.
A high protein diet during development can prime the body to react unhealthily to future food binges. The study found that rats fed a high protein diet showed increased body weight and fat mass in response to a high energy diet.
Research from Michigan State University shows that food safety concerns significantly impact consumer spending and shopping habits. Consumers value third-party certification, but place more emphasis on traceability, seeing government inspection as the most credible signal of food safety.
A new study published in the Journal of Consumer Research found that the order in which food items are considered affects people's calorie estimates. Researchers discovered that switching the order can significantly alter perceived calorie content, even when foods are dissimilar.
New Caledonian crows use tools to extract wood-boring longhorn beetle larvae from burrows, providing a nutritious food source. The crows' tool use is energy-efficient and profitable, suggesting that unusual foraging opportunities have selected for their sophisticated behavior.