Articles tagged with Nutrition
A global analysis of marketed complementary foods found a widespread lack of consistency in their nutritional content. Only 15% met benchmarks for fat content and under 25% met standards for iron and zinc.
The VIRCA Plus consortium aims to improve agricultural productivity and enhance nutrition for smallholder households in East and West Africa by developing disease-resistant and nutritionally-enhanced cassava varieties. The project will address challenges such as plant viral diseases, which can destroy up to 100% of a cassava crop yield.
A nutrition education program in Indiana improved food security for participating families by 25%, according to a Purdue University study. The program, SNAP-Ed, teaches practical ways to stretch food dollars while eating nutritiously, with lessons focusing on maximizing the food budget and nutritional components.
A new study found that optimizing hospital nutrition care can significantly reduce 30-day readmission rates and length of stay for malnourished patients. Implementing a validated nutrition screening tool and providing early treatment and education can lead to substantial improvements in patient outcomes.
A new study found that most kids' menu items at top restaurants exceed the recommended calorie count, with fried potatoes being the most excessive. Experts recommend adjusting portion sizes and menus to meet children's needs, providing an opportunity for restaurants to promote healthier options and reduce childhood obesity.
A new clinical trial found that consuming milk with only A2 protein increased the concentration of glutathione, a critical antioxidant, in healthy adults. This may help strengthen the body's disease-fighting power and reduce the risk of degenerative diseases.
A study of over 38,000 US children found their diet quality improved between 1999 and 2012, but still lags behind, with disparities seen among racial and economic groups.
Research highlights the intersection of nutrition and mental health, with studies investigating various levels and perspectives. Nutrition's impact on inflammation and stress is a key area of focus.
A 14-year study of 1,685 adult Americans found that regular sugar-sweetened beverage consumption is associated with increased risk of prediabetes and insulin resistance. Higher intake was linked to a 46% higher risk of developing prediabetes compared to low- or non-consumers.
The Food Hero program, launched by Oregon State University, uses a combination of clear messaging, kid-friendly recipes, and community engagement to encourage healthy eating among low-income families. The initiative has shown promising results, with over 36% of tested recipes receiving the 'kid-approved' rating.
A new study by CDC researchers reveals that American children are consuming excessive sodium levels, exceeding the daily recommended limit. The average sodium intake for kids was found to be 3,256 milligrams per day, with nearly 90% of children surveyed exceeding the upper level of recommended sodium intake.
A new study found that high-protein diets reduced liver fat in individuals with type 2 diabetes, with significant reductions seen in half of the participants. The diets were based on either plant or animal protein sources, and all participants benefited from the high-protein diet.
A Canadian-funded study finds that poor fetal growth before birth is the greatest risk factor for child stunting in developing countries. The study suggests a need for greater emphasis on maternal health and environmental factors such as sanitation to prevent stunting.
Researchers found that beta-cryptoxanthin inhibits nicotine-linked lung cancer development in mouse models, reducing tumor number and invasiveness. The study suggests that eating foods high in BCX may have a beneficial effect on lung cancer risk for smokers and tobacco product users.
A systematic review of studies suggests a 12% lower risk of stroke associated with moderate egg consumption, likely due to the high-quality protein and antioxidants present. Eggs are an affordable source of essential nutrients, supporting heart health and overall well-being.
The study found that being born at term but small for gestational age is the leading global risk factor for childhood stunting. Unimproved sanitation and poor nutrition also significantly contribute to stunting in children.
Researchers found industry sponsorship may be linked to more favorable study outcomes, but differences were not statistically significant. Insufficient evidence exists to quantify the impact of industry sponsorship on research quality and results.
The study found that when mitochondria are disrupted, stem cells lose their ability to self-regenerate, but stressed cells initiate a growth program leading to tissue regeneration. This highlights the fundamental role of functioning mitochondria in regulating intestinal tissue renewal.
A new study shows that babies fed infant formula with a structurally identical version of 2'-fucosyllactose (2'-FL), the most abundant HMO found in human milk, had an immune response more like breastfed babies. This breakthrough research provides hope for parents who need or choose to use infant formula.
A study by Purdue University found that adding whole eggs to a salad increases Vitamin E absorption, particularly when consuming vegetables high in fat. This research supports the idea of combining foods to improve nutrition value and absorption.
A Queensland University of Technology researcher found that the food industry has more access points to policymakers than nutrition professionals, giving it greater influence over policy. To address this, experts recommend policies like sugar-sweetened beverage taxes and mandatory front-of-pack labeling.
A better diet is associated with an increase in the middle class, leading to economic and political independence and fostering democratic values. Improved nutrition precedes democracy, contrary to conventional wisdom, and has a higher correlation with democratization than income growth and trade liberalization.
A recent study published in Sports Medicine found that exchanging sedentary behavior with even low-intensity physical activity reduces adipose tissue and enhances cardiorespiratory fitness in 6-8-year-old children. The intensity of physical activity is crucial for the association with enhanced cardiovascular fitness.
Adult survivors of childhood cancer have poor adherence to federal dietary guidelines, with low intakes of whole grains and excessive sodium and empty calories. Incorporating nutrition into cancer care may help establish long-term healthy eating habits to promote well-being and prevent or delay new chronic diseases.
A new study published in The FASEB Journal found that early life exposure to a diet high in soy protein isolate can protect against serious bone loss during adulthood. This is the first time scientists have used an animal model to show concrete evidence of a protective effect of an early-life soy protein isolate diet on adult bone loss.
A study published in the American Journal of Agricultural Economics found that federal school lunch guidelines led to improved health outcomes for students. The research showed a reduction in calories from fat and sodium, but varying responses across socioeconomic and demographic groups.
A study found that high folate consumption is associated with increased risk of peripheral neuropathy in older adults with a specific genetic variant. The researchers recommend keeping folate intake close to the recommended amounts and obtaining nutrients from a balanced diet.
A new study from Cornell Center for Behavioral Economics in Child Nutrition Programs finds that career development opportunities are crucial for food service directors to adopt healthier lunchroom changes. Food service directors who participate in professional organizations and trainings are more likely to be aware of the Smarter Lunch...
A staggering proportion of children under five may not reach their developmental potential due to poverty and chronic undernutrition. Research highlights the critical role of early childhood development in shaping future health, economic, and social outcomes.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found significant variability in glycemic index values within individuals and among populations. This variability can affect how a food impacts blood sugar levels.
Research suggests that mango supplementation can prevent the loss of beneficial gut bacteria often induced by a high-fat diet. This is achieved through the regulation of gut bacteria in favor of Bifidobacteria and Akkermansia, as well as enhanced short-chain fatty acid production.
A new study found that malnourished older adults who received a specialized nutrition supplement had an additional 8.5 months of estimated life expectancy compared to a placebo group. The analysis also showed that the treatment was cost-effective, costing only $524 for each year of life saved.
The Gerontological Society of America has awarded Dr. Daniel L. Smith Jr the 2016 Nathan Shock New Investigator Award for his outstanding contributions to basic biological research on aging. He is exploring the impact of reduced carbohydrate exposure and calorie restriction on cellular lifespan in model organisms.
Researchers found that omega-3 fatty acids reduced brain damage in mice with hypoxic-ischemic brain injury. The study suggests that injecting DHA after a stroke-like event can protect brain mitochondria against free radical damage.
A new study from the University of Stirling found no difference in muscle growth response to protein after a full-body workout between larger and smaller participants. Consuming 40 grams of protein after exercise was more effective at stimulating muscle growth than 20 grams, regardless of body size.
A pan-European study found that personalized nutrition advice led to significant improvements in diet quality, including reduced red meat consumption and increased folate intake. Participants who received personalized guidance had better health outcomes compared to those receiving generic dietary advice.
According to a Virginia Tech researcher, replacing just one calorie-laden drink with water can have significant benefits for overall health. By reducing daily calories from sugary beverages, individuals can lower their risk of weight gain, obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
Researchers found that adding small amounts of milk and meat to the diet dramatically improves nutrient levels, including protein, calcium, zinc, iron, and vitamins A and D. Plant-based supplemented diets can also improve nutrition, but with limitations.
A Mediterranean diet has been shown to improve cognitive function and slow down cognitive decline. The diet's focus on plant-based foods, low dairy intake, and olive oil as a primary source of fat may contribute to its benefits.
Research from the University of Missouri found that zones with specific games can increase physical activity during recess, leading to improved health and academic performance. The study used accelerometers to track participants' physical activity, showing a significant increase in zoned playground participants.
Increased support for minority-focused research and community-based participatory research can improve understanding of chronic diseases across races and ethnicities. Policy recommendations include increasing non-white participant enrollment, educating healthcare providers, and funding research on gene-environment interactions.
Researchers found that fidgeting one leg intermittently during three hours of sitting increased blood flow and prevented a decline in arterial function. The study suggests that even small amounts of movement can be beneficial when walking or exercising is not an option.
A study published in JAMA Ophthalmology found that sedentary behavior is associated with an increased risk of diabetic retinopathy. Participants with diabetes who spent more time sitting had a 16% higher chance of developing mild or worse DR compared to those who were more active.
A new study by UTHealth found that Brighter Bites significantly reduced added sugar intake among first-grade children and improved home environments, including increased cooking from scratch at home. Parents also showed improvements in nutrition knowledge and behavior.
Researchers have created a new framework called 'nutritional geometry' that considers how mixtures of nutrients influence health and disease. The approach is hoped to assist in better understanding and managing obesity by focusing on nutrient balance rather than single nutrients.
Dr. Julie Locher receives the 2016 M. Powell Lawton Award from the Gerontological Society of America for her innovative work in gerontological treatment and service. Her research focuses on social and environmental factors affecting eating behaviors and nutrition-related health outcomes in older adults.
A new food-print model suggests that the US can feed up to 800 million people from existing agricultural land with dietary changes. A vegetarian diet with dairy products has the highest carrying capacity, while vegan diets have the lowest.
A recent review paper highlights the importance of choosing nutrient-dense, soft, and neutral-tasting foods for infants, with avocados emerging as a suitable first food solution. The study suggests that caregivers often opt for sweet foods, which can lead to early preferences and nutritional deficiencies.
Research suggests that cranberry polyphenols interact with other bioactive compounds to protect the gut microbiota, provide antioxidant functions, and benefit cardiovascular systems. Cranberries also show promise in strengthening the gut defense system, protecting against infection, and managing glucose levels.
A new meta-analysis of 102 randomized controlled trials found that consuming unsaturated fats in place of either carbohydrates or saturated fats improves insulin resistance and secretion. This could aid in the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes.
A two-year study found that restricting calories by 25% in healthy non-obese individuals reduced markers of chronic inflammation without negatively affecting immune responses. Chronic inflammation is linked to age-related diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and dementia.
A new Brown University study found that childcare centers in Rhode Island serving low-income children under the federal nutrition subsidy program serve healthier food than those outside the program. The study's lead author suggests that implementing nutritional guidelines and regulations can improve the quality of food served, particul...
A review of existing research concludes that manipulating food product order or proximity can positively impact food choices. Healthy food nudging is promising, with 16 out of 18 studies showing a positive impact. The review suggests using placement of products to promote healthier options, such as vegetables being placed first in line.
A large international study found that being overweight or obese significantly increases the risk of dying prematurely, with a BMI of 40.0-<60.0 kg/m2 associated with nearly three-fold risk.
Researchers at Amazentis SA and EPFL have discovered that urolithin A boosts mitochondrial function and reverses muscle aging. Oral administration of the compound enhances muscle strength and endurance in aged rodents.
The University of Bristol's research identified four priority challenges to equine welfare: unresolved stress/pain behaviour, inappropriate nutrition, inadequate stabling/turnout, and delayed death. The findings aim to improve horse welfare in the UK, with a focus on education, industry collaboration, and legislative changes.
A landmark study suggests that culturally tailored weight-and-fitness interventions are effective in helping lesbian and bisexual women improve health behaviors. The study found that nearly 60% of participants increased their physical activity minutes by 20% and 95% achieved one or more health objectives.
A study of over 2.1 million people found that those who cooked at home more frequently had a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The research suggests that preparing meals at home can contribute to diabetes prevention efforts through improved nutritional and lifestyle habits.
Researchers found that using cartoon characters to promote vegetables in school lunchrooms can increase veggie selection by up to 35% among elementary school students. The Super Sprowtz team, including Miki Mushroom and friends, was effective in encouraging kids to choose healthier options.
A new study published in Pediatrics found that using colorful banners and nutrition education videos can increase the number of children taking vegetables in school cafeterias. Researchers observed a 239% increase in vegetable selection when both banners and videos were used, compared to a 90% increase when only banners were used.