Researchers found that meal timing programs the liver's daily rhythms and can have serious metabolic and health consequences when out of sync. The liver uses food signals to activate metabolic pathways, which can conflict with the body's natural circadian clock, leading to health issues.
A new study suggests that phytoene, a colorless precursor of lycopene, may contribute to tomatoes' protective effects against fatty liver disease. Mice given phytoene developed substantially less fatty liver disease than those without the compound.
A University of Kansas researcher is using FDA addiction science to test the addictive properties of hyperpalatable foods. She will recruit participants and provide them with different food stimuli, then measure their responses to determine if the foods have reinforcing effects. The study aims to identify specific ingredients that boos...
Research reveals surprisingly diverse diets of premodern commoners in Osaka, including luxury fish and products from distant regions. Dental calculus proteomics analysis identified 38 dietary proteins from 17 taxa, showing that urban commoners had access to a wide range of foods beyond traditional stable isotope analysis.
A new study by the University of Illinois Chicago found that time-restricted eating may be a safe and effective tool to control blood sugar levels in adults with Type 1 diabetes. The study, led by Krista Varady, showed a significant reduction in blood sugar levels after six months, with no increased risk of extreme highs or lows.
Irrigated mountain hayfields act as large filtration systems, reducing nutrient concentrations in runoff and improving water quality. This study found that voluntary adoption of best management practices can effectively mitigate the impacts of agricultural nutrient use in mountain meadow hay systems.
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University found that a mitochondrial fusion protein called OPA1 plays a crucial role in regulating appetite and body weight. Mice lacking this protein exhibited increased food intake and age-related weight gain, highlighting the importance of OPA1 in maintaining energy metabolism.
A comprehensive review of nanobiochar reveals its potential to address multiple agricultural challenges simultaneously, including nutrient retention, water holding capacity, and stress tolerance. The study highlights the need for careful risk assessment and regulatory frameworks to ensure safe deployment in sustainable farming systems.
Researchers discovered that bacteriophages play a critical role in distributing nutrients, promoting microbial diversity, and supporting gut health by releasing vitamin B12. The study found that phage infection is necessary for B12 release, and the nutrient specifically drives growth in dependent microbes.
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University are developing a sustainable, AI-guided system to remove excess phosphorus from freshwater systems, preventing harmful algal blooms. The technology combines durable 3D-printed structures with AI-powered monitoring and optimization.
The American Society for Nutrition (ASN) has announced the locations for its upcoming annual meetings, NUTRITION 2027 in Las Vegas and NUTRITION 2028 in Boston. The meetings will bring together researchers, clinicians, and policymakers to advance nutrition science and celebrate 100 years of ASN.
A new study published by the American Society for Nutrition found that overall diet quality, not just food processing level, is strongly associated with long-term health outcomes. Healthy diets rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are beneficial, even if they include some processed foods.
A new study reveals that the nutritional composition of milk depends on the dairy production method and season. Organic grass-fed milk contains significantly more omega-3 fatty acids than conventionally-produced milk.
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 multicenter study has provided new evidence on the effectiveness of combined exercise and nutrition interventions in critically ill patients. Researchers found that such interventions did not improve outcomes compared to usual ICU care, but generated valuable insights for refining future rehabilitation and nutrition strategies.
A study found that supplementing with HMB before surgery improves liver regeneration in animals by preserving energy function and improving the quality of recovery. The supplementation was shown to have a beneficial effect on mitochondrial function and metabolic performance, even after it was discontinued.
Researchers found that adding small amounts of brown seaweed flour to gluten-free cookie recipes significantly increases phenolic compound content, antioxidant activity, and protein content. The study suggests potential use as a functional ingredient in the food industry.
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.
Hydrothermal carbonization byproduct water may support crop production and nutrient recovery, with potential for circular bioeconomy systems. Proper characterization and application can unlock benefits, but safety and management challenges must be addressed.
A study at the Federal University of São Paulo found that only a fraction of copper and magnesium from Brazil nuts and cashews is absorbed by the human body. The researchers used an in vitro gastrointestinal digestion assay to assess bioavailability, which differed from bioaccessibility.
NUTRITION 2026 brings together thousands of researchers and health professionals to share new evidence on protein needs, infant formula regulation, microbiome mysteries, and more. The meeting features over 1,650 scientific studies and provides a platform for experts to discuss the future of nutrition science.
A new paper by over 20 protein experts examines widely held propositions about dietary protein, concluding that some science is insufficient or not robust enough to support certain claims. Key findings include the importance of protein quality, individual essential amino acids, and nuance in high-protein intake during weight loss.
Researchers investigated the interplay between host and gut microbiota in selenium metabolism, finding that gut microbiota transform selenium into metabolites influencing utilization, detoxification, and excretion. The study also revealed that Se intake affects bacterial diversity and that gut microbes produce unique selenometabolites.
A recent study published in Cell has found that certain plants actively reduce their ability to take up iron when experiencing drought stress. This shift is driven by changes to plant roots that downregulate both immune systems and iron uptake machinery, allowing specific bacteria to thrive.
Researchers found that a vitamin D analog reduced fibroblast activation and increased T cell infiltration in pancreatic tumors, improving chemotherapy responses and progression-free survival. Patients with high vitamin D receptor expression also had longer overall survival.
NUTRITION 2026 will feature new, unpublished research findings relevant to consumer choices, clinical practice and public policy. The meeting is the premier place to dig deep into the discourse on what we eat and why it matters.
A study of over 31,000 patients found that pneumonia occurred more often after breathing tubes were removed than during ventilation, with most cases developing within a 1–2 week window after surgery. Early assessment and intervention focusing on swallowing function are crucial for prevention and improved outcomes.
Researchers found that plants can acquire essential nutrients like phosphorus and iron from atmospheric dust settling on their leaves. This discovery suggests an important new pathway for plant nutrition and ecosystem functioning, particularly in nutrient-limited ecosystems.
A study by Osaka Metropolitan University found that mice preferred carbohydrates over standard chow, leading to increased body weight and fat mass. The researchers also discovered a decrease in energy expenditure and an accumulation of fat in the liver, which improved when wheat flour intake was discontinued.
A study led by UNICAMP researchers found that decreased bacteria in the large intestine affects nutrient absorption, particularly in older adults. The research showed a dual function of a previously thought mucus-secreting cell, which absorbs nutrients and regulates its abundance with gut microbiota signals.
Complimentary press passes are available for NUTRITION 2026, a flagship meeting of the American Society for Nutrition, featuring new nutrition research and policy-relevant findings. Journalists can access a virtual newsroom with embargoed press materials before the meeting.
A preclinical study found that short-term high-fat diet exposure rapidly depletes critical gut immune cells called ILC3s, leading to intestinal permeability and inflammation. The loss of these cells compromises intestinal barrier function and may contribute to chronic diseases linked to inflammation.
A study from Tulane University found that consuming more ultra-processed foods is linked to lower bone mineral density and a higher risk of hip fractures. The study involved over 160,000 participants and found that even small increases in ultra-processed food intake can increase the risk of hip fractures.
Seabirds have a significant impact on plant growth and dune formation on uninhabited islands, with guano providing essential nutrients. The research highlights the importance of protecting seabird habitats to maintain ecosystem balance.
A comprehensive systematic review found that large-scale food fortification is a highly cost-effective intervention for reducing global malnutrition, with benefits far outweighing costs. The study analyzed 56 studies from 63 countries and found that fortification programs deliver substantial health benefits relative to costs.
A new study found a significant decline in nitrogen pollution in the Mississippi-Atchafalaya River Basin over the past two decades. The decline is attributed to cleaner air and more efficient nitrogen uptake by modern corn hybrids, as well as reduced fertilizer application.
A recent study led by Virginia Tech researchers found that certain medium-chain fats in infant formulas can strain the developing liver and lead to early signs of steatotic liver disease. Newborn pigs fed with these formulas accumulated liver fat faster than those fed long-chain fats, despite receiving the same calories and protein.
A new Cochrane review suggests that intermittent fasting may not be an effective strategy for weight loss in overweight or obese adults. The study found no meaningful difference in weight loss between intermittent fasting and traditional dietary advice or doing nothing, highlighting the need for more research into this area.
SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 15, 2026
Research found that oak tree microbiomes are resilient to environmental stressors like drought and disease, with subtle changes in root microbiota after prolonged drought. The study suggests a potential role for beneficial bacteria in supporting tree resilience and stability.
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University discovered that natto bacteria convert soybean proteins and other substances into supersulfide molecules. Heat-treated soybeans also showed an increase in supersulfides before fermentation, indicating a complex mechanism behind natto's health benefits.
After initiating GLP-1 receptor agonists, consumers showed a decrease in ultraprocessed foods and an increase in protein, while purchasing fewer calories, sugars, and saturated fats. These modest changes may have significant population-level effects given increasing GLP-1RA use.
Two studies found that minor adjustments in sodium content could produce significant public health benefits without requiring individual behavior change. The research suggests reducing salt in packaged and prepared foods could prevent cases of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and deaths.
A recent review of bamboo consumption found promising health benefits, including improved metabolic health, reduced inflammation, and antioxidant activity. However, caution is advised due to potential risks associated with raw or improperly prepared bamboo.
A high-protein diet rich in casein and wheat gluten can significantly reduce the amount of cholera bacteria able to infect the gut. The study found that these dietary components can suppress a key structure on the surface of cholera bacteria, making it difficult for the pathogen to colonize and cause harm.
A study found that insufficient dietary lycopene is associated with a higher risk of severe periodontitis among U.S. adults ages 65-79. Adequate lycopene intake was linked to reduced likelihood of severe gum disease, with notable racial and sex disparities observed.
A large meta-analysis of over 48,000 children found that well-planned plant-based diets can support healthy growth and even offer additional health benefits for children. However, the study also highlights risks of deficiencies in key nutrients such as vitamin B12 and zinc if not obtained through fortified foods or supplements.
A study by Raedeh Basiri found associations between dietary patterns, glycemic status, diabetes control, and sleep outcomes. Individuals with diabetes or prediabetes were more likely to have trouble sleeping and experience abnormal sleep duration compared to those without these conditions.
Florida Atlantic University's College of Engineering has received a $600,379 grant to advance technology targeting harmful algal blooms in Florida's waterways. The project aims to develop novel 3D-printed adsorbent materials for efficient phosphate removal.
A UCO study verifies acorns' high starch content, fatty acid profile similar to olive oil, and nutrient-rich compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. The research identifies diverse microbiomes associated with seeds influencing bitterness levels and paves the way for future domestication programs.
A new study finds that an integrated harvesting method can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 9% and energy use by 5% in smaller fields. Another study reveals that tiller mass is sensitive to nitrogen management, with a decline in biomass yield over time.
A recent study from the University of Toronto found that use of pre-workout dietary supplements is associated with five or fewer hours of sleep per night. The study analyzed data from over 16-30 year-old participants and found that those who used pre-workout supplements were more than twice as likely to report short sleep durations.
A three-year field experiment in China found that no-tillage with total green manure mulching significantly increased maize biomass, grain yield, and photosynthetic capacity by improving soil water content and temperature. This method also optimized root structure and canopy coverage of maize.
Researchers identified biological markers of inflammation, liver stress, and early damage to brain cells in young adults with obesity. Low blood levels of choline, essential for liver health and long-term brain function, were also found. These findings suggest that metabolic stress and inflammation may begin far earlier than expected.
A controlled feeding study out of South Dakota State University shows that older adults who reduced ultra-processed foods naturally consumed fewer calories, lost weight and abdominal fat, and showed improvements in insulin sensitivity and inflammation. This study provides evidence that the Dietary Guidelines for Americans can deliver s...
Researchers at Chiba University developed a novel isotope-based method to detect and identify selenium-containing compounds, revealing new biological roles of selenium. The technique uses multiple isotopic signatures simultaneously, reducing errors and improving detection reliability.
A new study reveals that China's nationwide nitrogen management could reduce fertilizer use by over one third, improving air and water quality without compromising crop yields. Implementing a three-step strategy to increase manure recycling, balance fertilizer applications with environmental sources, and adopt integrated soil and crop ...
A human clinical trial found that consuming black cumin seed powder daily for 8 weeks significantly reduced blood triglycerides, LDL and total cholesterol levels. The study also showed an increase in HDL cholesterol levels, associated with a lower risk of heart problems.
A new study found that the arrival of boll weevils in the US South in the early 20th century led to improved economic outcomes for Black sons born after the agricultural shock. The researchers examined changes in earnings, occupations, and residences for Black males before and after the boll weevil's appearance.
A study warns that Ukraine's soils are losing vital crop nutrients due to reduced fertilizer access and inefficient farming practices. To mitigate this, the authors recommend better farm management, efficient use of fertilizers, and introducing legumes into crop rotations.
Researchers have created a novel three-dimensional porous structure that improves the lifespan and safety of lithium-metal batteries. The design allows for uniform lithium deposition, reducing the risk of internal short-circuits or explosions.