Sweets change our brain
A study by Max-Planck-Gesellschaft researchers found that consuming small amounts of high-fat and high-sugar foods regularly rewires the brain, leading to a preference for these types of food.
Sugars
Articles tagged with Sugars
Singapore’s Nutri-Grade labelling influences consumers to make healthier choices, Duke-NUS trial reveals
A trial by researchers at Duke-NUS Medical School found that the Nutri-Grade system encourages consumers to purchase beverages with lower sugar content, especially those with chronic conditions. The study showed a significant increase in purchases of A-rated drinks with 1.5g less sugar per serving.
SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateMar 21, 2023
Novel drug makes mice skinny even on sugary, fatty diet
Researchers developed a small-molecule drug that limits magnesium transport into cellular power plants, resulting in skinny, healthy mice. The findings hold significant implications for preventing cardiometabolic diseases like heart attack and stroke, as well as reducing liver cancer risk.
SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2023
Losing key type of pancreatic cell may contribute to diabetes
A new study by Weill Cornell Medicine investigators found four distinct types of beta cells in the pancreas, with cluster 1 beta cells producing more insulin than others and appearing better able to metabolize sugar. The loss of these high-functioning beta cells may contribute to type 2 diabetes development.
The war on sugar: How can soda manufacturers reduce sugar in products without endangering sales?
Researchers examine how sugar reduction strategies affect new product sales, finding that smaller package sizes perform better than regular sizes. Sugar reductions work better if they do not overemphasize the reduced sugar content in new additions.
Plant-based low-carbohydrate diet linked with lower risk of premature death for people with type 2 diabetes
A new study found that a plant-based low-carbohydrate diet is associated with lower all-cause mortality among people with type 2 diabetes. The study, published in Diabetes Care, analyzed data from over 7,000 participants and found that such diets reduced mortality by 24%.
SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalDiabetes Care·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 2023
Cognitive behavioral therapy delivered via smartphone app lowers blood sugar, improves health behaviors in patients with diabetes
A smartphone app-based cognitive behavioral therapy program lowered blood sugar levels and improved health behaviors in patients with diabetes. The study found a clear 'dose effect,' where participants completing more lessons saw greater benefits.
60-day bed rest study shows dangers of long-term inactivity for blood sugar levels
A 60-day bed rest study showed that long-term inactivity significantly increases blood sugar levels even with reduced food intake. The study found average blood sugar levels increased by 6% during the day and 10% at night, highlighting the importance of physical activity for metabolic health.
Stevia based sweeteners offer a sweeter, more environmentally friendly alternative to sugar
Researchers found that stevia-based sweeteners cause significantly less environmental impact than sugar, with reduced land use and water consumption. The study provides promising news for the planet's health, but highlights the need for further research on the health impacts of these natural sweeteners.
SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalThe International Journal of Life Cycle Assessment·DateFeb 15, 2023
Health: Free sugars associated with higher risk of cardiovascular disease
A recent study published in BMC Medicine found that higher consumption of free sugars is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. The researchers analyzed data from 110,497 individuals and found that consuming more free sugar, particularly from sugary drinks and sweets, increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. In...
Being married may help people maintain lower blood sugar levels
A study published in BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care found that married individuals tend to have lower average glycemic levels compared to those without a partner. The researchers also discovered that marital transitions, such as divorce, can significantly impact blood glucose levels and the risk of pre-diabetes.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 6, 2023
Experts urge kids’ comic the Beano to stop promoting junk food brands
The UK comic Beano promotes unhealthy food brands through quizzes and games on its website, raising concerns among health experts. The company collects data on children's consumption preferences, which is sold to companies, contributing to the problem.
Sugary drinks tax may have prevented over 5,000 cases of obesity a year in year six girls alone
A study by University of Cambridge researchers found that the UK's soft drinks industry levy may have prevented 5,000 cases of obesity per year in year six girls due to an 8% relative reduction in obesity levels. However, there was no significant association between the levy and obesity levels in year six boys or younger children.
UK soft drink taxes associated with decreased obesity in girls
A new study found that UK soft drink taxes led to an 8% reduction in obesity among 10-11 year old girls, with greatest reductions seen in most deprived areas. The tax, introduced in 2018, was associated with a decrease in childhood obesity rates.
Sweet salvation - how a sugar cane pathogen is gearing up a new era of antibiotic discovery
A potent plant toxin called albicidin has emerged as a strong new antibiotic candidate, effective in small concentrations and highly potent against pathogenic bacteria. Its unique mechanism targets the bacterial enzyme DNA gyrase, which is essential for cell function.
Breakthrough in the sugar biology of multicellular organisms
Researchers from ETH Zurich elucidated the structure and function of tryptophan C-mannosyltransferase (CMT), a glycosyltransferase enzyme involved in C-mannosylation. The study reveals the enzyme's novel mechanism, enabling precise understanding of protein sequences and sugar substrates.
Two previously unknown bacterial species identified from patients with inflammatory bowel disease
Researchers have isolated two new bacterial species from patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which break down the protective mucus layer of the gut. The bacteria, Allobaculum mucilyticum and Allobaculum fili, are highly efficient at degrading intestinal mucus, leading to potent immune responses.
SourceUniversity Medical Center Utrecht·JournalINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SYSTEMATIC AND EVOLUTIONARY MICROBIOLOGY·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 12, 2023
Enhanced cancer immunotherapies through cytokine-labeled T cells
A new method utilizes an unnatural sugar to anchor cytokines to T cells, enhancing their functions without systemic side-effects. The approach has shown promise in stimulating the host immune system against tumor cells and inhibiting tumor growth in mice with melanoma.
SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2023
Study illuminates sugar’s role in common kidney disease
Researchers discovered that sugar plays a key role in the formation of fluid-filled cysts associated with polycystic kidney disease (PKD). By understanding this process, they identified a potential new approach to treating PKD, focusing on blocking sugar absorption in the kidneys.
SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 5, 2023
Decoding the secret language of photosynthesis
Scientists have decoded the signals plants send themselves to initiate photosynthesis, a process turning sunlight into sugars. The newly identified proteins control communication between plant cells and organelles, potentially leading to breakthroughs in cancer research and improving crop yields.
Researchers advance insights into cause of ripples on icicles
Experimental physicists discovered that water impurities become entrapped within icicles, creating chevron patterns and ripple effects. The study reveals that internal patterns are connected to external shapes, leading to a deeper understanding of natural ice formations.
Sedentary lifestyle and sugary diet more detrimental to men
A new study from the University of Missouri School of Medicine found that short-term exposure to reduced physical activity and increased sugar consumption disrupts insulin response in blood vessels, with men more prone to vascular insulin resistance. In contrast, young women are protected against this condition.
Dig in: Sand serves up a possible cure for obesity
Researchers from University of South Australia found that porous silica can prevent fats and carbohydrates from being adsorbed in the body. Engineered particles of purified sand are designed to soak up digestive enzymes, fats, and sugars within the gastrointestinal tract.
Artificial intelligence helps predict performance of sugarcane in the field
Researchers used machine learning to predict sugarcane yield based on DNA. The technique improved accuracy by over 50% compared to traditional breeding methods.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 19, 2022
Effect of front-of-package information, fruit imagery, sugar warning on parent beverage choices for children
A randomized clinical trial found that adding sugar warnings and prohibitions on front-of-package claims reduced parents' purchases of high-sugar beverages. However, percentage juice disclosures had no effect on behavior.
Dietary supplementation may improve antibiotic-induced GVHD following stem cell transplants
Researchers identified a specific gut bacterium responsible for antibiotic-induced GVHD after stem cell transplants. A sugar supplement was found to improve gut health by distracting the bacteria from attacking mucin in the intestinal lining, reducing complications such as GVHD.
Mind-body practices lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes
Researchers found that all mind-body practices led to significant reductions in blood sugar levels, with yoga providing the largest benefit. The study suggests that these practices could be used as a complementary nonpharmacological treatment or preventive measure for type 2 diabetes.
SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalJournal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 28, 2022
Protein restriction can be effective in combating obesity and diabetes, study suggests
A randomized clinical trial found that protein restriction diets can lead to weight loss, improved blood sugar and lipid levels, and controlled blood pressure. The study involved 21 patients with metabolic syndrome, who were given either a calorie or protein restriction diet for 27 days.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNutrients·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 20, 2022
UF researchers find new sugar substitutes in citrus that could change food and beverage industry
Researchers at the University of Florida have identified eight new sweetener compounds in 11 citrus cultivars, providing a potential solution to reduce sugar content in processed foods while maintaining sweetness. This breakthrough could lead to the development of natural, non-caloric sweeteners for the food industry.
Diabetes is the variable that most affects the number of deaths from heart attack
A Brazilian study analyzed risk factors for heart attacks and found that high blood sugar had the most significant impact on mortality. Reducing smoking prevented most deaths from cardiovascular disease, while lowering diabetes incidence could have saved up to 5,000 lives over a decade.
Diabetes: When circadian lipid rhythms go wrong
A study by the University of Geneva team shows that disrupted circadian clocks lead to a rigidity in the membrane of pancreatic endocrine cells, affecting their function. The researchers also found that lipid profiles oscillate more during the day than previously thought, particularly in phospholipids and sphingolipids.
High cholesterol leads to long-term liver scarring and immune cell dysfunction in lab study
A lab study found that high cholesterol intake worsens fatty liver disease progression by driving inflammation and scarring. The researchers also discovered long-lasting dysfunction in immune cells responsible for fighting liver damage. Moderation is key to maintaining a healthy diet, according to the study's findings.
SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2022
Recommended blood sugar levels to avoid diabetes-related damage
A study from Linköping University shows that individuals with type 1 diabetes should keep their mean long-term sugar level below 53 mmol/mol (7.0%) to avoid serious damage. The risk of eye- and kidney complications increases as the level increases.
“Gateway” foods like candy, pastries and frozen treats may lead to unhealthy teen eating
A new study led by a 16-year-old scientist found that certain ultra-processed foods, such as candy and pastries, can lead to increased consumption of other unhealthy foods among teenagers. Reducing consumption of these 'gateway' foods may help reduce overall unhealthy food intake and positively impact health.
Study suggests possible link between artificial sweeteners and heart disease
A large French study found a potential direct association between higher artificial sweetener consumption and increased cardiovascular disease risk. The researchers suggest that these food additives should not be considered a healthy alternative to sugar.
City-based soda pop taxes don’t effectively reduce sugar consumption
A new study from the University of Georgia found that soda taxes in Philadelphia had little effect on reducing sugar intake, as consumers replaced sugary drinks with other sweets. Additionally, shopping for sodas outside the tax area offset most of the decrease in sugar consumption
Two new studies link ultra-processed foods with heart disease, bowel cancer and death
Two large studies found a link between high consumption of ultra-processed foods and increased risks of cardiovascular disease, bowel cancer, and death. The findings support policies limiting ultra-processed foods and promote eating unprocessed or minimally-processed foods for improved public health.
Drinking black tea may be associated with lower mortality risk
A prospective cohort study found that drinking two or more cups of black tea per day is associated with a moderately lower mortality risk. The findings suggest that tea can be part of a healthy diet.
SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateAug 29, 2022
Feeling anxious or blue? Ultra-processed foods may be to blame
Researchers found a strong association between ultra-processed food consumption and adverse mental health symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and mentally unhealthy days. The study suggests that the high sugar, salt, and saturated fat content of ultra-processed foods may contribute to these negative effects.
Sweet sap, savory ants
Researchers found that woodpeckers have regained the ability to sense sugar by repurposing their savory receptor. In contrast, wrynecks selectively lost this ability due to a single amino acid change in their receptor, highlighting a novel mechanism of sensory reversion.
“Nutri-Score” label may counter misleading sugar claims on groceries
A new analysis suggests that Nutri-Score labeling can help consumers make healthier food decisions by countering misleading sugar claims. The study found that participants were more likely to perceive unhealthy foods as healthier when a Nutri-Score was absent, but the presence of this label reduced misconceptions.
Sugar metabolism is surprisingly conventional in cancer
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis found that cancer cells metabolize glucose in their mitochondria, following conventional biochemical patterns. The study suggests that limiting glucose uptake may not be an effective strategy to target cancer cells, and glucose metabolism may need to be reevaluated as a therapeutic target.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 15, 2022
Banana peels make sugar cookies better for you
Researchers found that incorporating banana peel flour into sugar cookie batter makes the treats more healthful. The addition of banana peel flour resulted in cookies having less fat and protein, higher amounts of phenols, and better antioxidant activities compared to conventional cookies.
Sponge-like electrodes inspired by sugar cubes could improve medical monitoring
Researchers have developed a low-cost, spongy electrode made from a sugar cube template, offering improved signal detection and reduced noise. The device's micropores provide increased contact area with the skin, enabling it to monitor uterine contractions and other health issues with high quality.
Fast food diet before pregnancy can impact breast milk and baby’s health, say scientists
A new study found that a fast food diet before pregnancy can negatively impact breast milk quality and baby's health, increasing the risk of conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Even short-term consumption of high sugar and fat diets affects women's health and fertility.
SourceSt. John's College, University of Cambridge·JournalActa Physiologica·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 27, 2022
Reducing sugar consumption to achieve climate and sustainability goals
A new study suggests that reducing sugar consumption through sugar taxation policies can have significant environmental, social, and economic benefits. Redirecting existing sugar cropland to alternative uses like biofuel production could lead to emissions reductions of up to 54.3 MtCO2e per year.
SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 25, 2022
A healthy lifestyle can offset a high genetic risk for stroke, according to new research by UTHealth Houston
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that people with high genetic risk for stroke can reduce their risk by 30-45% by adopting a healthy cardiovascular lifestyle. The study followed 11,568 adults over 28 years and showed that modifying lifestyle risk factors can offset genetic risk.
SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJul 20, 2022
Not enough men in their 40s are getting screened for diabetes: Study
A study found that men in Alberta, Canada are not getting tested for diabetes often enough, particularly in their 40s. This could lead to serious complications like heart disease and cancer later in life. The researchers recommend that everyone over 40 get screened for diabetes every three years.
Finding HIV’s sweet spot
Researchers found that HIV prefers to infect memory CD4 T cells with large amounts of specific sugars, including fucose and sialic acid. The study also reveals that HIV boosts the production of these sugars in infected cells, highlighting a new target for potential treatments.
Cheers! Here’s to the health-conscious youth: an untapped drinks market for restaurants
A study of over 1000 consumers from Australia and NZ found that 27% would pay nearly double the price for 'healthy' drinks with low/no sugar, natural/no additives, or vitamins and minerals. Younger consumers (18-24 years) are more likely to be interested in healthy drinks.
Artificial photosynthesis can produce food without sunshine
Scientists have developed artificial photosynthesis to produce food in the dark, bypassing sunlight's need. This technology converts CO2, electricity, and water into acetate, a key component of vinegar, boosting food production's conversion efficiency up to 18 times.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Food·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 23, 2022
New PET-like plastic made directly from waste biomass
Scientists have developed a biomass-derived plastic similar to PET that meets the criteria for replacing several current plastics. The new plastic can be produced in one step using inexpensive chemicals and retains its sugar structure, making it easy to degrade.
Discovery of new Covid infection mechanism offers clue to SARS-CoV-2 leap to humans
A new analysis method reveals that the original SARS-CoV-2 viral strain used a sugar binding feature to infect human cells, which was later lost in variants. This discovery raises questions about the origins of the virus and its transmission to humans.
Study provides new insights into how acculturation affects what teens eat
A new study found that US teens born elsewhere eat healthier than US-born teens, but diet worsens over time. The analysis showed that being born outside the US and living in the US for less time were associated with higher diet quality.
Are ultra-processed foods harmful? Experts weigh the evidence
The American Society for Nutrition hosted a live virtual debate on the concept of ultra-processed foods, with leading scientists presenting arguments for and against incorporating it into dietary guidelines. Research suggests that consumption of ultra-processed foods is linked to weight gain and increased risk of chronic diseases.
Warning labels could help customers identify hidden sugar in restaurant menus
A new study suggests that added-sugar warnings with icons and text can effectively inform consumers about high-sugar menu items. The researchers found that 80% of participants supported the use of these labels on restaurant menus, indicating a potential solution to address excessive sugar in food supply.
SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPreventive Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 6, 2022
Sweetened and unsweetened coffee consumption associated with lower death risk
A cohort study found that moderate coffee consumption, especially unsweetened coffee, is associated with a lower risk of death. The results suggest that adults who drink 1.5 to 3.5 cups of coffee per day may be less likely to die during a 7-year follow-up period compared to non-coffee drinkers.
SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMay 30, 2022
New study gives a more accurate picture of pregnancy related diabetes risks
A new systematic review and meta-analysis published in The BMJ provides a comprehensive understanding of the adverse outcomes associated with gestational diabetes mellitus during pregnancy. The study found that women with gestational diabetes had increased odds of caesarean section, preterm delivery, and infant complications.
Carbon capture takes sponge-like form with new cost-effective method
Researchers have developed a new carbon capture method using sponge-like materials that can trap CO2 without degrading over time. The materials are made from sugar and low-cost alkali metal salts, making them a potentially cost-effective solution for reducing coal-fired power plant emissions.
Further insights into SARS-CoV-2 spike protein glycan shield
A recent study published in Frontiers in Microbiology reveals the correlation between sugar identity and flexibility in SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein. The researchers used high-resolution cryo-electron microscopy and computer simulation to understand the impact of glycans on antibody recognition and protein shielding.