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Reducing ultra-processed food (UPF) intake and being physically active can cut risk of type 2 diabetes, regardless of genetic make-up

A new study suggests that eating a diet low in ultra-processed foods and exercising regularly can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, even in those with a strong genetic predisposition. The analysis of data on tens of thousands of people found that those who followed these habits were up to 70% less likely to develop the condition.

How you feel about fast-food brands can predict overall diet quality

A new study suggests that a fondness for well-known fast-food and sugar-sweetened beverage brands can predict poorer diet quality, even among those who rate these brands as unhealthy. The research found that participants who liked fast-food brands not only consumed more fat and sugar but also tended to perceive those brands as healthier.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalJournal of Health Communication·TypeSurvey·DateSep 10, 2026

Poor diet may worsen genetic causes of male infertility, study finds

Researchers found that a Western-style diet exacerbated male infertility in mice with genetic mutations, leading to lower fertility and poorer sperm quality. The study suggests that lifestyle factors contribute to the severity of infertility in men with underlying genetic susceptibility, providing new insights into personalized fertili...

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalHuman Reproduction·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 31, 2026

Study of 5132 app users finds consistent food-tracking a strong predictor of clinically significant weight loss

A 6-month study of 5132 MyNetDiary users found that consistent food-tracking, even with fewer than 2 days per week, is associated with better weight loss outcomes. Users who tracked food 6-7 days per week lost an average of 11.33% of their body weight, while those who tracked only 2-3 days per week lost 7.35%.

SourceJMIR Publications·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateAug 25, 2026

Teens say TikTok food content shapes what they want to eat but parents can help them navigate its influence

A recent study found that TikTok food content prompts hunger and cravings in adolescents, but parents can help them navigate its influence by fostering critical conversations and encouraging family meals. The study suggests parents can provide a protective perspective by questioning influencer claims and promoting healthy social media ...

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·TypeSurvey·DateAug 19, 2026

Biochar as an “electron bridge” unlocks hidden power of energy‑saving wastewater treatment

A new review reveals that biochar can act as an electron bridge, tripling electron transfer capacity in ammonia-removing microbes and boosting wastewater treatment efficiency. Biochar production can be tuned to enhance electron transfer, and emerging technologies may further reduce energy footprint.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalBiochar·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 19, 2026

Nostalgia and family traditions are major barriers to adoption of plant-based diets, Stirling study finds

A new study found that nostalgia and family traditions are major barriers to adopting plant-based diets, with personal experiences and cultural identities playing a significant role. Researchers suggest recreating nostalgic or culturally significant dishes using vegan ingredients can make dietary change feel more accessible.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalPsychology of Human-Animal Intergroup Relations·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 21, 2026

A healthy diet during pregnancy associated with lower exposure to some—but not all—chemicals, NIH study finds

A new study of nearly 1,500 pregnant participants found that following dietary guidelines may reduce exposure to many environmental chemicals from food and everyday products. However, the same dietary pattern does not lower exposure to all chemicals, with higher levels found in certain pesticides on fresh produce.

SourceEnvironmental influences on Child Health Outcomes·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeObservational study·DateJul 8, 2026

Duke-NUS study: Nutri-Grade labels help cut sugary drink consumption and drive industry reformulation

A Duke-NUS study found that mandatory Nutri-Grade front-of-pack labels on beverages redirected household consumers to healthier drinks and encouraged manufacturers to reformulate products with less sugar. The study resulted in an 18% reduction in sugary drink consumption and a 44% decrease in purchases of unhealthy drinks.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJun 28, 2026

Can food influence gene activity? Scientists discover a biological “pencil” that improves health through nutrition

A new study reveals that a Green Mediterranean diet enriched with the aquatic plant Mankai can improve gene activity and reduce risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and aging. Participants who followed this diet experienced increased folate levels, which fueled one-carbon metabolism and supported DNA maintenance.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalClinical Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 23, 2026

AI suggests simple food swaps to make meals healthier and cheaper

A new study published in PLOS Digital Health identifies simple food substitutions that can improve meal nutritional quality and lower costs. By analyzing 135,491 meal records, researchers trained an AI model to suggest one to three ingredient swaps, resulting in a 10% improvement in nutritional quality and a 22-34% reduction in costs.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Digital Health·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 28, 2026

Colorectal cancer risk linked to gut microbiome alterations

A study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that gut microbiome alterations persist even after adenoma removal, increasing the risk of colorectal cancer. The researchers discovered that diet and physical activity were closely tied to CRC-associated gut microbes, suggesting lifestyle habits may contribute to sustained risk.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeObservational study·DateMay 27, 2026

Regular guava juice consumption may help lower women’s anemia risk

A combination of guava juice and iron supplements is more effective than iron supplements alone in boosting haemoglobin levels, according to a meta-analysis. The study found that regular guava juice consumption can help lower the risk of anaemia in women, particularly those with low vitamin C intake.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 26, 2026

Helping ensure science is at the heart of mindful eating technology design

Lancaster University researchers created a new toolset to guide developers in designing digital technologies that support mindful eating. The toolset, MEDEC cards, provides practical guidelines for designers and health practitioners, aligning with evidence-based health research and ensuring safe and effective solutions.

SourceLancaster University·JournalACM Transactions on Computer-Human Interaction·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 27, 2026

Ultra-processed foods damage your focus even if you eat healthy

A study of over 2,100 Australian adults found that a daily increase in ultra-processed foods can significantly impact attention span and cognitive function. Even among those who consume a healthy Mediterranean diet, the degree of food processing plays a critical role in damaging brain health.

SourceMonash University·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia Diagnosis Assessment & Disease Monitoring·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 23, 2026

Covid snacking habits and their consequences

A Japanese study examines the long-term effects of COVID-19 lockdowns on individuals with glucose intolerance, revealing a clear divergence in clinical trajectories among those who worsened and improved. Flexible lifestyle adaptation is crucial for restoring metabolic health, suggesting personalized support may improve glycemic control.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Diabetes Investigation·TypeObservational study·DateApr 21, 2026

Mediterranean diet may boost mitochondrial signals linked to heart and brain health

Researchers found that people following a Mediterranean-style diet have higher levels of humanin and SHMOOSE, which are linked to protection against cardiovascular disease and neurodegeneration. The study suggests that specific components of the Mediterranean diet may directly influence mitochondrial biology.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·TypeObservational study·DateMar 23, 2026

Can spending time in nature improve your diet?

A new study from Drexel University found that individuals who spent more time in nature reported better dietary behaviors, such as eating more fruits and vegetables. Participants who spent more time in nature also experienced improved mental health, including reduced depression, anxiety, and stress.

SourceDrexel University·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateMar 16, 2026

Emotions drive our eating choices

A study found that individuals trying to diet are more likely to choose unhealthy snacks when feeling negative emotions, but emotional awareness is the key to maintaining healthier eating habits. Practicable strategies like mindfulness exercises and checking in with feelings can help dieters stay on track.

SourceFlinders University·JournalFood Quality and Preference·TypeSurvey·DateMar 3, 2026

Low-carb and low-fat diets associated with lower heart disease risk if rich in high-quality, plant-based foods, low in animal products

A new study finds that the quality of macronutrients matters more than their quantity for heart health, with diets rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables associated with a lower risk of coronary heart disease. The study also found improved cardiovascular biomarkers in healthy versions of low-carb and low-fat diets.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 11, 2026