Articles tagged with Nutrients
A new analysis of three decades of US food policies defines junk food based on a combination of product categories, processing, nutrients, and place. The study identifies common criteria used in existing policies, including exemptions for staple foods and favoring products with lower levels of processing and additives.
Researchers have identified FLVCR1 as a plasma membrane choline transporter in mammals, which could lead to treatments for diseases such as posterior column ataxia with retinitis pigmentosa and neurodegeneration. The discovery was made using an integrative genetic analysis approach that linked specific metabolites to transport proteins.
Researchers have developed a non-invasive technique using laser speckle imaging to visualize microvasculature in donor hearts and detect abnormal blood flow. The method enables precise visualization of blood circulation, potentially identifying hearts suitable for transplantation.
A new University of Illinois study suggests that widespread planting of cereal rye could significantly reduce nitrate levels in Illinois' tile drainage water. The research found that adopting winter cover crops, such as cereal rye, can help minimize nitrogen loss and improve water quality.
Consuming insects like crickets can contribute to healthy gut microbiota and provide essential nutrients. Research by CSU professor Tiffany Weir and colleagues highlights the potential benefits of edible insects on human health, including increased prebiotic effects and reduced intestinal inflammation.
A four-year field experiment in Estonia reveals that recycling phosphorus-rich lake sediments can sustain grass biomass yield and provide essential nutrients. However, the study also highlights potential environmental risks associated with sediment application methods.
Researchers discovered that adding cell layers to corn bran can increase iron and zinc content by up to 35% and 15%, respectively. The technique also enhances anthocyanin production, a natural pigment in corn prized for its colorant properties.
Researchers develop 'Human Appropriation of Net Primary Production' (HANNP) metric to accurately estimate human impacts on the earth's systems. This new approach starts at the source, measuring the total biomass produced through photosynthesis and comparing it to what humans have appropriated for their own use.
Scientists warn that tropical forests' capacity to act as a carbon sink is declining due to persistent drought. The study found that soil nutrients play a significant role in carbon storage and release, contradicting previous models. Researchers are urging action to address emissions and increase carbon sequestration initiatives.
Researchers found that TaMADS29 interacts with TaNF-YB1 to regulate early grain development in bread wheat. The complex helps prevent excessive ROS accumulation, promotes nutrient transport into the endosperm, and allows normal grain filling.
A study suggests that artificial light at night disrupts the winter dormancy period of mosquitoes, causing them to bite humans and animals longer into the fall. This delay in diapause may increase the risk of West Nile virus transmission.
Scientists have found that cells break down and reassemble fatty acids to create more beneficial variants, such as oleic acid. This process, called triglyceride cycling, refines poorly usable fatty acids into higher-quality forms.
Researchers discovered genetically identical bacterial cells have different functions, with some producing toxins. Nutrient-rich conditions reduce toxin levels and bad actor cells. This finding could lead to alternative antibiotic treatments for animals and humans.
Researchers found that a group of amino acids influence brain development, leading to severe effects after birth if nerve cells are starved. The study showed that mice with low levels of essential amino acids developed microcephaly and exhibited long-term behavioral abnormalities similar to those in autism spectrum disorders.
A new study from the University of Exeter finds that a vegan diet rich in mycoprotein can support muscle growth during resistance training to the same extent as an omnivorous diet. The study shows comparable increases in muscle mass and strength in response to both diets.
A new approach to evaluating carbohydrate quality, the Carbohydrate Food Quality Score (CFQS), acknowledges nutrient and cultural diversity. It supports health equity by recognizing that carbohydrate foods are not homogenous and varying in nutrient profiles and quality.
A new study from the University of Illinois finds that local enforcement of manure management regulations can effectively reduce nutrient concentrations in rivers and lakes. The study focuses on Wisconsin's unique approach, which allows counties to participate in enforcement without state approval.
A study published in Nature Communications found no evidence for two alternative stable states in shallow lakes, contradicting the accepted theory. The research team recommends reducing nutrient inputs to ensure ecological equilibrium.
A research team at Osaka Metropolitan University has developed a selective and sensitive method for detecting reactive polysulfides in vegetables. The study found high levels of reactive polysulfides in leek genus vegetables like onions and garlic, as well as cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cabbage.
The faba bean genome has been fully sequenced for the first time, providing a genetic toolkit for breeding lines with beneficial traits. This achievement aims to improve nutritional content and sustainability of production, with a focus on increasing UK-grown pulses and promoting plant-based diets.
A new study by Göttingen University reveals that mechanical weeding and reduced fertilizer usage significantly increase ecosystem multifunctionality and profit in industrial oil palm production. The researchers found no reduction in greenhouse gas emissions with these practices.
Estuaries along the Atlantic coast and eastern Gulf of Mexico are expected to experience significant increases in nutrient loading, posing risks for harmful algal blooms and ecosystem health. The study identified regions with high adaptive capacity as having more resources to mitigate these effects.
Research suggests that oleic acid in olive oil has antioxidant properties, inhibiting the expression of proteins associated with cholesterol transport, and reducing atherosclerosis. Additionally, oleic acid is recognized as an anti-cancer molecule, which also displays hypocholesterolaemic effects and may influence epigenetic mechanisms.
The study finds that aquatic foods are rich in essential nutrients, potentially diminishing malnutrition and heart disease risks. Implementing blue food policies can also promote a more environmentally friendly and sustainable food system.
Researchers found that the feathers of large seabirds contained nutrients from multiple ocean basins, while smaller birds had elements matching their local foraging environments. This discovery may explain the long-distance migrations of threatened species.
Researchers found that primary cancer tumors have a sluggish conversion of nutrients to usable cellular energy, conserving energy for growth and metastasis. The discovery has vast implications for anti-cancer strategies, directing attention to slow energy metabolism.
A new study by the University of Göttingen found that alley-cropping agroforestry significantly improves ecosystem functions, including carbon sequestration, habitat creation, and soil protection. In contrast, open grassland systems did not show significant changes in ecosystem function after conversion to agroforestry.
Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology have developed a process to unlock soluble ferulic acid-rich dietary fibers from corn bran, a low-value sidestream. The extracted antioxidants can prevent cell oxidation and improve gut health by delivering hydrogels that counteract oxidative stress.
A Cambridge-led consortium has received $35m to engineer plants to utilize naturally occurring micro-organism interactions, enhancing nutrient uptake and increasing crop yields. This approach aims to revolutionize smallholder farming in sub-Saharan Africa and provide a sustainable solution for food production.
A new study on Chesapeake Bay water quality found that pollution thresholds affect reduction efforts, and larger reductions may be needed to induce complete reversal of eutrophication-induced hypoxia. The research revealed that the system responds only until a certain threshold is crossed, then it takes twice the effort to make a change.
A recent study found that adding just one ounce of walnuts to the typical American diet improves diet quality and increases intakes of under-consumed nutrients. Researchers analyzed data from nearly 8,000 Americans without a history of nut consumption, showing significant benefits for all life stages.
Researchers at the University of Reading are working on a £2 million project to increase UK-grown faba beans in bread, improving nutritional quality and sustainability. The 'Raising the Pulse' project aims to encourage farmers to switch wheat-producing land to faba bean for human consumption.
A new study from Tufts University finds that dollar stores have doubled their share in rural areas, with households headed by people of color and lower-income households relying heavily on them. The growth of dollar stores raises concerns about the nutritional value of their food offerings and potential displacement of local grocers.
Researchers found that nitrified urine fertilizers, such as Aurin and CROP, can be used safely and productively in agriculture. The study tested these fertilizers on cabbage cultivation, with results showing yields comparable to conventional fertilizer products.
Researchers have discovered that nutrient elements such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sodium can activate immune responses in tomato plants, leading to disease resistance. The study found that different defense signaling pathways are required for induction of immunity in response to different elements.
Researchers found a novel gene-transfer mechanism in Prochlorococcus that enables the transmission of entire blocks of genes between organisms, even when widely separated. This mechanism, dubbed 'tycheposons,' involves sequences of DNA that can include several genes and are transported by membrane vesicles or hijacked virus particles.
A randomized controlled trial found that community gardening increases fiber intake by 7% and physical activity levels, leading to lower stress and anxiety. The study also confirms the benefits of novice gardeners and highlights the social connections formed through community gardening.
Scientists found that invasive black rats transform reef fish behavior, causing changes in territorial patterns and nutrient cycles. The presence of rats disrupts the nutrient cycle by reducing seabird populations and nutrients deposited onto islands.
Research found that approximately 40% of Danish population has gut microbes that extract more energy from food, leading to a higher risk of obesity. This composition of gut microbes is also associated with faster digestion and greater nutrient extraction.
A gene called CRTC1 suppresses obesity when functioning in specific neurons, but its deletion leads to overeating and weight gain. Researchers created mice with a modified version of the gene to study its effects on obesity and diabetes.
New study reveals marine algae adapt to nutrient-poor ocean conditions, sustaining productivity even in depleted waters. This 'metabolic hack' could impact global ocean productivity and carbon sequestration.
Researchers have developed an edible plant-based ink derived from food waste to create cost-effective scaffolds for culturing meat. This innovation could significantly reduce the cost of large-scale cultured meat production, making it more affordable and environmentally friendly.
Researchers discovered that starvation causes changes in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) structure in human cells, leading to impaired mitochondrial function and severe energy deficiency. This mechanism is crucial for understanding the progression of X-linked centronuclear myopathy.
Researchers discovered a species of grass, seashore paspalum, that can tolerate diverse stresses and aid in crop development. The study revealed the plant responds to nutrient deprivation by doubling its production of a sugary molecule called trehalose, which helped corn seedlings grow faster and larger without added nutrients.
A new study found that a machine learning-based blood test can accurately predict an individual's entire diet over 19 food groups, outperforming traditional methods. The test, which uses molecular profiling, also identifies who is more likely to develop diabetes and cardiovascular disease based on each food group.
A WVU engineer has developed a technology that can treat urine on site rather than at a centralized wastewater treatment facility, allowing for the recovery of nitrogen as a valuable fertilizer. The approach enables quick treatment and promotes the reduction of nutrient discharge into lakes and rivers.
A recent study by Chalmers University of Technology reveals that many vegetarian meat substitutes sold in Sweden are low in iron and zinc due to phytates. The researchers analyzed 44 different products and found that even fortified ones still contain phytates, which inhibit absorption.
Rondaxe Lake's experience is just one of thousands worldwide as lakes lose oxygen due to warming, leading to conditions like hypoxia and anoxia. This phenomenon, exacerbated by seasonal stratification, threatens aquatic life and ecosystems.
West Virginia University researchers, Ember Morrissey and Kinsey Reed, are working with private farms to diversify forage species and improve soil health. The project aims to increase economic gains for farmers while reducing carbon dioxide emissions.
Research published in Nature Food suggests that small pelagic fish like herring and sardines are abundant and affordable sources of nutrients, particularly selenium, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc. The study found that these fish could help close nutritional gaps in sub-Saharan Africa and other low- and middle-income countries.
A recent study found that consuming the most vegetables, including leafy greens and cruciferous veggies, was associated with a lower risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Meanwhile, potatoes may not have the same benefits but aren't bad if prepared in a healthy way.
Researchers at Aarhus University found a link between lipid kinase VPS34 and viral protection in the kidneys. The study used multiomics analysis to show that blocking lipid kinase could reduce viral entry and increase nutrient retention, offering potential new treatments for kidney diseases and infections.
Researchers found that small pelagic fish such as herring and sardines are the cheapest nutritious fish in 72% of low- and middle-income countries. These fish can help close nutrient gaps, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa where deficiencies are rising.
A recent study led by the University of Nevada, Reno and the Pan American Health Organization suggests that the adoption of front-of-pack nutrition labeling can help reduce poor-nutrition related non-communicable diseases in the region. Improved FOPNL systems have been associated with improved diet quality and reduced risk of NCDs.
Researchers found that small pelagic fish, such as herring and sardines, are a cheap source of nutritious seafood. These fish can provide essential micronutrients like iron, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids to vulnerable populations in low-income countries.
A new study finds that different definitions of whole-grain foods yield varying results on American consumers' intake, highlighting the need for a standardized consensus. While overall consumption has increased, it remains below recommended levels, with discrepancies among racial/ethnic groups and across institutions.
Researchers discovered that ant pupae secrete a fluid that is consumed by both adults and larvae, highlighting the interconnectedness of different developmental stages within an ant colony. The fluid, derived from molting, is rich in nutrients and psychoactive substances, essential for larval growth and adult metabolism.
Steaming hay kills harmful microorganisms, but damages proteins making them less digestible for horses. This can lead to impaired muscle development and nutrient deficiencies, affecting growth and coat health. Horses can be enriched with protein-rich feedstuffs to mitigate this risk.
A new study published in the KeAi journal Global Transitions found that consuming a high sodium, low potassium diet can increase the risk of cognitive decline in elderly people. Participants who replaced 1000mg/day of sodium with an equal intake of potassium showed an average increase of ~1 point on their cognitive test score.
A study found that ocean warming and acidification decrease the nutritional quality of coccolithophores, a crucial food source for zooplankton species. The study's experiment showed an increase in lipid availability under ocean warming but reduced nutritional content under acidification.