Articles tagged with Sugars
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Researchers used machine learning to predict sugarcane yield based on DNA. The technique improved accuracy by over 50% compared to traditional breeding methods.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Research finds that individuals anticipate more negative judgement from outside social groups and self-categorize their food choices accordingly. Healthy food options are chosen to counteract this anticipated judgment.
A meta-analysis published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that diets containing red meat did not impact glycemic and insulinemic risk factors for type 2 diabetes. The study suggests that more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between red meat consumption and the development of type 2 diabetes.
A new study found that reality TV programs in the UK exhibit frequent displays of alcohol, tobacco, and unhealthy foods, raising concerns about youth exposure. The research estimates that these shows delivered millions of impressions to children, highlighting the need for revised regulations.
A new study analyzed the UK's largest contemporary dietary dataset of toddlers, finding that only 16% met the recommended intake of free sugars. The majority of free sugars consumed by children come from pure fruit juices, yogurts, and processed foods.
A study led by Richard Isaacson found that individualized, multi-domain interventions improved cognition and reduced Alzheimer's risk in both men and women. Women demonstrated greater improvements in certain risk scores and biomarkers compared to men.
Researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina have developed a highly accurate and minimally invasive test for detecting liver fibrosis. The test, GlycoFibroTyper, measures changes in sugar molecules attached to antibodies in patient blood samples.
A study found that small genetic variations impact an organism's ability to utilize energy from various nutrients. Researchers identified several genes contributing to sugar tolerance in fruit flies, which are also present in humans and linked to obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Researchers characterized viral protein binding to sialic acids on animal and human coronaviruses, revealing host-specific patterns. This adaptation enables coronaviruses to quickly jump species, driving cross-species transmission.
A team from Goethe University has identified the spatial structure of the mannitol-synthesizing enzyme MtlD in Acinetobacter baumannii, which is crucial for its survival. This discovery could lead to the development of customized substances to inhibit the enzyme and combat this hospital pathogen.
Researchers have found that two sugar substitutes, acesulfame potassium and sucralose, inhibit the activity of P-glycoprotein, a vital protein in liver detoxification. This can lead to impaired transport of toxins and drugs, potentially affecting people taking certain medications. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Scientists create nanoparticles coated in mannose to block production of scar-promoting protein in lung cells. The treatment holds promise for preventing severe lung scarring disease.
A study presented at the American College of Cardiology's Annual Scientific Session found that personalized nutrition education in grocery stores significantly improved DASH diet adherence. Participants who received six one-on-one sessions with a dietitian showed an average increase of 4.7 points on their DASH scores.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found associations between consuming artificial sweeteners and increased cancer risk. The researchers analyzed data from 102,865 French adults and discovered higher risks for overall cancer, breast cancer, and obesity-related cancers.