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Sugars may have helped fuel the evolution of the human brain: new research

A four-million-year study modelled the glucose needs of humans and their ancestors, finding natural sugars supplied energy for growing brains before cooking made starch-rich foods easier to digest. The research suggests earliest hominins were highly reliant on carbohydrate-rich foods, particularly fruit.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 6, 2026

Vegan diets and dietary energy density

This study investigates the link between vegan diets and dietary energy density, finding that adopting a vegan diet may lead to lower energy intake. The randomized clinical trial analyzed data from over 10,000 participants, suggesting that a well-planned vegan diet can be an effective way to reduce energy consumption.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 6, 2026
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Powerhouses for fake meat: muscle protein can now be grown in chloroplasts of lettuce and tobacco plants

Researchers have successfully engineered plants to produce myoglobin, an important component of animal muscle, using a gene gun to insert the genes into chloroplasts. The yield was approximately three times higher than when inserted into the nuclear genome, paving the way for plant-grown meat production.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 6, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Our genes may shape what we eat and our metabolic health

A large-scale genetic study suggests that inherited taste preferences for sweet and fatty foods can influence eating behaviors and contribute to chronic disease risk. People with a higher genetic predisposition for these tastes tend to eat more of them, leading to a higher risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJul 27, 2026

Is your diet driving up your cholesterol? That may depend on your genes

Researchers found that genetic factors play a role in how individuals respond to a low-carb, high-fat diet, with those at higher risk experiencing greater increases in LDL cholesterol. The study suggests personalized dietary guidance based on genetic profiles could help identify who may experience adverse responses to certain diets.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJul 27, 2026

Time-restricted eating may help retain cognitive function in older adults

A small clinical trial found that time-restricted eating improved spatial planning and problem-solving skills, reducing errors related to memory and learning. After six months, participants who limited their daily eating window showed significant cognitive improvements compared to those maintaining a standard eating window.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJul 26, 2026

Plant-forward planetary health diet linked to lower heart disease risk

A large study of over 65,000 postmenopausal women found that a higher adherence to the Planetary Health Diet was associated with a 28% lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Women who followed the diet more closely had a decreased risk of heart failure and stroke compared to those in the lowest-adherence group.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJul 25, 2026
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

FDA-issued sodium targets yield no apparent impact

A study found that FDA-issued sodium reduction targets had minimal impact on the amount of sodium in new packaged foods, with some categories even increasing sodium levels. Researchers argue that stronger accountability mechanisms are needed to effectively reduce population sodium consumption and related health issues.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJul 25, 2026
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

It's not just fat: yo-yo dieting might mean losing muscle, too

Repeatedly losing and gaining weight accelerates muscle loss in middle-aged people, as found in new UC San Francisco research. The study analyzed MRI scans of 1,433 participants and found that those with fluctuating weights lost nearly four times as much thigh muscle over four years.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalRadiology·DateJul 21, 2026

NUTRITION 2026 press materials available now

At NUTRITION 2026, researchers presented studies on sodium targets, prebiotic sodas, plant-forward planetary health diets, breakfast consumption, calorie-tracking apps, time-restricted eating, and diet influences on cholesterol. These findings offer insights into healthy food choices and nutrition strategies.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJul 20, 2026

Study maps breastfeeding rates in the United States

A nationwide analysis reveals breastfeeding initiation rates vary dramatically across US counties, influenced by race, education, urban vs rural communities. Local conditions play a crucial role in shaping breastfeeding initiation rates, with certain communities requiring targeted interventions for improvement.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 20, 2026

Study identifies chrononutrition as a viable approach for postpartum weight loss

A new study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics identifies chrononutrition as a viable approach for postpartum weight loss. The research found that time-based eating approaches, such as time-restricted eating, can be an effective strategy for mild calorie restriction and cardiometabolic health postpartum.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·TypeSurvey·DateJul 20, 2026

What wastewater says about what we eat and who we are

Researchers analyzed wastewater samples from 19 communities across North Carolina, revealing patterns of plant and animal consumption influenced by economics, immigration, and geography. The study demonstrates the potential for wastewater surveillance to track nutrition trends and identify gaps in food access.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 20, 2026
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Weight loss drugs could help with binge eating disorder

A systematic review and meta-analysis found that weight loss drugs can reduce key symptoms of binge eating disorder, including binge eating episodes, loss-of-control eating, and emotional eating. The study suggests that these medications could be an important part of treatment plans for people with binge eating disorder.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 15, 2026

Eating an avocado a day lowers heart disease risk factor for people with obesity

A six-month study found that regular avocado consumption was associated with a reduced concentration of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles in the blood, corresponding to an approximate 4% reduction in heart disease risk. This modest reduction indicates that anyone with obesity could benefit from avocado consumption.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Clinical Lipidology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 13, 2026
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Lifestyle intervention linked to slower biological aging markers in older men

Researchers found that a 12-week lifestyle program combining exercise guidance, dietary counseling, and daily yogurt consumption significantly slowed DunedinPACE, an epigenetic measure of biological aging. The intervention resulted in a modest but statistically significant slowing of the pace of aging, corresponding to a 2.2% reduction.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeNews article·DateJun 25, 2026

Low-protein, amino acid-supplemented ‘longevity diet’ linked to longer healthy lifespan, lower fat mass and frailty risk, and better metabolic health

A new study published in Cell Metabolism found that a low-protein, amino acid-supplemented 'longevity diet' improved cardiometabolic markers and reduced frailty and fat mass in mice. The diet was associated with longer healthy lifespan and better metabolic health in both mice and humans.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 23, 2026
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Does drinking juice, soda during childhood increase the risk of high blood pressure?

A long-term study published in Circulation found that consuming sugary drinks and fruit juice in childhood may increase the risk of developing high blood pressure later in life. The study suggests that substituting these beverages with whole fruits, milk, and water may be associated with a lower risk of developing high blood pressure.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateJun 22, 2026

Chewing sugary gum after eating beetroot lowers blood pressure

Researchers at King's College London discovered that chewing sugary gum after consuming beetroot increases nitrite production, leading to lower blood pressure. This finding could have implications for sports people using beetroot to improve athletic performance.

SourceKing's College London·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateJun 18, 2026

Could the rise of weight-loss drugs reshape food markets in the Global South?

The rapid rise of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs in high-income countries could lead to a shift in food purchasing patterns and marketing strategies. This could result in stronger corporate lobbying, more aggressive marketing, and expansion into urban markets in low- and middle-income countries.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalGlobalization and Health·DateJun 16, 2026
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Can’t stick to a diet? Try intermittent fasting for weight loss

A study published in Clinical Nutrition found that participants on an intermittent fasting diet lost around seven kilograms in six months, compared to two kilograms lost by those on the standard diet. The researchers suggest that this diet may drive weight loss through different psychological and behavioural pathways.

SourceAdelaide University·JournalClinical Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 16, 2026

Sugar-free diets may disrupt gut microbiome

Researchers found that eliminating sugar from a low-fat diet can lead to impaired glucose control, insulin resistance, and gut microbial imbalance. Balanced dietary carbohydrates are essential for supporting gut and immune homeostasis.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateJun 13, 2026
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Why drinking alcohol may make you reach for chips and pizza: new research

New research from the University of Sydney's Charles Perkins Centre found that alcohol can trigger biological pathways that increase levels of the hormone FGF21, which is linked to protein appetite. This can lead people to overconsume savoury ultra-processed foods, contributing to excess energy intake and weight gain.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalObesity·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 2, 2026

New poll: more than half of men think meat is ‘masculine’

A new poll by Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine finds that most men consider a carnivore diet to be 'masculine' and would change their diet if it put their health at risk. The survey also found that consuming meat is linked to an increased risk of heart disease, erectile dysfunction, and reduced fertility.

SourcePhysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine·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
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Plant-forward and low-insulinemic diets may help reduce weight gain and obesity risk during menopause, long-term study finds

A large study of nearly 40,000 women found that plant-based diets with lower insulinemic potential can help women manage their weight and reduce the risk of obesity during menopause. Women who followed a diet rich in whole grains, nuts, legumes, and vegetables had a significantly lower risk of developing obesity.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 27, 2026

You are what you eat — or are you?

A new mathematical model developed by Arizona State University researchers estimates how much of the calories people absorb from food, considering the role of gut microbes. The model, DAMM, suggests that short-chain fatty acids produced by gut microbes contribute to an average of about 140 calories per day.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPLOS One·TypeObservational study·DateMay 27, 2026

Weight loss in older patients with persistent atrial fibrillation

A low-calorie diet and behavioral support program significantly reduced weight in older patients with overweight and persistent atrial fibrillation at 8 months. The study found no safety concerns or impact on atrial fibrillation symptoms, cardiac remodeling, or need for further rhythm control interventions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMay 20, 2026

Vitamin C may help prevent cancer

A University of Waterloo study uses mathematical modelling to explore how Vitamin C affects digestion-related cancer risk. The research suggests that consuming Vitamin C-rich foods like leafy greens may decrease cancer risk, while taking supplements after meals could have a moderate positive effect.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Theoretical Biology·DateMay 20, 2026
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Even after adopting cattle, early herders kept hunting and gathering

For at least 1,000 years, early herders in eastern Africa continued to fish, hunt, and gather alongside livestock, revealing a diverse diet that varied greatly from person to person. This strategy likely helped them adapt to a changing environment and ensured survival.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 2026

Is “yo‑yo dieting” really harmful? New analysis challenges long‑standing assumptions about weight cycling

Weight loss followed by weight regain, known as 'yo-yo dieting,' is not supported by strong scientific evidence. The authors found that benefits of losing weight outweigh the theoretical risks of weight cycling in most cases. Repeated attempts at weight loss can provide meaningful periods of improved metabolic health and quality of life.

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 15, 2026
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Dietary changes in older people can improve ‘biological age’

A study published in Aging Cell found that reducing dietary fat or animal-based protein can reduce 'biological age' in older adults. After just four weeks, participants showed significant reductions in biomarker profiles indicative of improved health and aging outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalAging Cell·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 11, 2026

‘Fitspiration’ posts may do more harm than good for young adults – international study, led by Olympian, suggests

A new study suggests that fitspiration content on social media can lead to negative self-esteem, unhealthy dieting, and exercise habits among young adults. Researchers analyzed 26 studies involving 6,111 individuals across seven countries, finding that even brief exposure to idealized images can trigger harmful comparisons.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalHealth Communication·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 4, 2026
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Plant-based diet cuts climate impact by more than half, randomized clinical trial shows

A new study published in Current Developments in Nutrition shows that adopting a low-fat vegan diet can rapidly reduce environmental impact while improving metabolic health. The 12-week randomized clinical trial found dramatic reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and cumulative energy demand.

SourcePhysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine·JournalCurrent Developments in Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 30, 2026

New clinical trial shows vegan diet dramatically cuts food-related emissions—with major health benefits

A new randomized clinical trial shows that a low-fat vegan diet reduces greenhouse gas emissions by nearly three times more than a Mediterranean diet. The study also found significant improvements in key cardiometabolic outcomes, with the majority of environmental gains driven by eliminating meat, dairy, and eggs.

SourcePhysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine·JournalBMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 30, 2026

How eating primes immune cells for future responses

A study by University of Pittsburgh researchers found that eating creates a temporary metabolic state that influences T cell function, leading to improved responses to infection. The findings have particular relevance for cancer immunotherapy and may inform when immune cells are collected or activated.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature·DateApr 29, 2026
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Plant-based eating may reduce inflammation, new research suggests

A study published in Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases found that plant-based dietary patterns were associated with significantly lower C-reactive protein levels compared to omnivorous diets. This reduction may indicate less background inflammation and lower cardiovascular risk.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 29, 2026

Biomonitoring the Anthropocene: NY's East River becomes a living biosensor

A year-long study of NYC's East River used environmental DNA to reveal insights into urban wildlife activity, human food consumption and ecosystem health. The findings suggest that urban waterways can become continuous biosensors tracking biodiversity and habitat restoration outcomes.

SourceProgramme for the Human Environment, The Rockefeller University·JournalPLOS One·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 29, 2026

Lifestyle, diet, and clinical factors shape the gut microbiome in cancer patients

A new review found that lifestyle behaviors like physical activity and diet can positively modulate the gut microbiome of cancer patients, but these effects are often influenced by non-modifiable variables. The study also highlighted the role of intrinsic patient characteristics in shaping microbial composition.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncoscience·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 28, 2026

Top 3 dietary risks behind 5.9 million heart deaths globally

A comprehensive study reveals that high sodium intake, low fruit consumption, and lack of whole grains are the primary drivers behind 5.9 million cardiovascular deaths worldwide. Researchers emphasize the need for targeted policy interventions, such as mandatory front-of-pack labeling and food reformulation in high-population countries.

SourceInnovation Press·DateApr 22, 2026