A new study found that four AI-powered photo-based calorie-tracking apps underestimated the calories and fat content of meals by about a third. The researchers used standardized photos of 102 meals prepared in a controlled metabolic kitchen to evaluate the apps' accuracy.
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.
A new study of teens around age 18 found that consuming breakfast increased their overall intake of important nutrients such as fiber, iron, zinc, and choline. Additionally, eating breakfast reduced the intake of high-fat and high-sugar foods throughout the day.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A new study suggests that ketogenic diets can increase the risk of cancer in the small intestine, unlike their protective effect on colon cancer. The diet's effects are driven by fat metabolism rather than ketone bodies.
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.
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.
A cohort study found that a dietary pattern with lower inflammatory potential was associated with lower dementia risk among individuals with Alzheimer disease pathology. Targeted dietary strategies may help prevent dementia in those already at elevated risk.
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.
A large long-term study found that children who consume sugar-sweetened beverages and fruit juice have a higher risk of hypertension later in life. Replacing these beverages with whole fruits or water was associated with lower risk of hypertension.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Researchers identified key factors, including diet, exercise, stress, and social engagement, that contribute to the long lives of Cilento residents. The CIAO Study aims to inform clinical solutions by providing actionable answers on aging and longevity.
Dr. Mey directs the Mitochondrial Energetics and Nutrient Utilization (MENU) Laboratory at Pennington Biomedical, researching precision nutrition and metabolic health. He will represent Pennington Biomedical and the Academy as a Media Spokesperson.
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.
A new SFU study analyzed 87,000 grocery carts in Canada and Finland to understand why shoppers don't buy more plant-based proteins. The research found that while price is a factor, it's not the only consideration, and having a variety of options also plays a role.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Researchers at NIH have discovered key intracellular signaling processes involved in the weight-loss effects of semaglutide, a GLP-1 drug. The findings may help extend treatment duration and reduce plateaus experienced by patients.
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.
A recent study found that consuming common preservative food additives increases the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. Non-antioxidant preservatives, in particular, were linked to a higher risk of hypertension.
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.
Polyendocrine Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) impacts 13% of women, causing hormonal imbalance, insulin resistance, and chronic pain. Lifestyle interventions, particularly diet and exercise, show benefits for physical and mental health outcomes.
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.
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.
Two scientists, Dr. Anna Elizabeth Thalacker-Mercer and Dr. Rachel Whooten, receive awards for their groundbreaking research on micronutrients and muscle health in relation to aging and disease, as well as innovative approaches to childhood obesity care.
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.
A review from Florida Atlantic University links obesity to Alzheimer's disease through disruptions in metabolism, highlighting the importance of mitochondrial function and gut-brain axis balance. Early detection and whole-body prevention may become possible through monitoring metabolic health.
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that moderate egg consumption is associated with a lower risk of Alzheimer's disease. Researchers discovered that eating one egg per day for at least five days a week reduces the risk of Alzheimer's by up to 27%.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A new study found that FDA 'healthy' labels increase consumer selections of healthier snacks and command a price premium. The study, led by researchers at Oregon State University, examined consumer purchasing preferences for snack products with and without healthy labels.
A ketogenic diet has been shown to improve beta-cell function in patients with type 2 diabetes by decreasing proinsulin secretion and reducing pancreas stress. This improvement is associated with changes in the proinsulin-C-peptide ratio, a biomarker of pancreas stress.
A team of Kyoto University researchers found that exposure to high-fat diets induces persistent metabolic stress in killer T cells, but also discovered a pathway for protection through purine metabolism. By recycling xanthine, killer T cells can produce antioxidants to boost their ability to fight tumors.
A recent study found that adolescents consuming more ultra-processed foods have significantly higher odds of being overweight or obese. The study, which analyzed data from 155,000 adolescents across multiple countries, suggests that public health strategies should prioritize reducing UPF consumption among adolescents.
A new study from Edith Cowan University found that higher sodium intake is associated with a faster decline in episodic memory in men. The study of over 1,200 participants suggests that diets high in salt may have broader cognitive impacts than previously understood.
Researchers found a diet high in ultra-processed foods is associated with higher amounts of fat stored inside thigh muscles. This increased intramuscular fat may increase the risk for knee osteoarthritis. The study suggests that addressing obesity and improving dietary quality are crucial to preserving muscle health.
Research in mice suggests artificial sweeteners can affect gut microbiome and gene expression, potentially impacting metabolic health. The study found that offspring of mice fed sucralose or stevia had altered gene expression linked to inflammation and metabolism.
A study by Princeton University researchers found that high-fat diets contribute to aggressive breast cancer growth, with tumors fed fatty acids forming hollow appendages. The team's 3D model showed that a ketogenic diet did not provide the expected benefits for this type of cancer.
A new study found that older men are more likely to reach for saltshakers than women, who's behavior is influenced by factors such as diet quality and lifestyle. The research highlights the importance of reducing salt consumption, particularly in industrialized foods.
Researchers discovered that placing fruit and vegetable sections near supermarket entrances increases purchased portions by 2,525 per week. This led to improved women's diets and potential long-term health benefits.
A new study published in Aging-US found that plant-based dietary patterns are associated with slower epigenetic aging. The research analyzed data from two large cohorts and found that higher intake of plant foods was linked to decelerated biological aging.
Researchers discovered subtle changes in the blood can reveal early signs of cognitive decline caused by chemicals produced by gut bacteria. A blood test may one day transform how we detect dementia, potentially identifying people at risk years before symptoms appear.