Research on diet and how food affects the body. Covers the microbiome, meal timing, cardiovascular risk, and nutrition in illness.
A new study found a significant association between high serum omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid concentrations and a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Linoleic and arachidonic acids showed similar protective effects, while gamma-linolenic and dihomo-γ-linolenic acids were linked to a higher risk.
A randomized controlled trial of 1,440 critically ill children found that fasting or very small amounts of feeding during the first week improves recovery rates, reduces infections, and organ failure. This study provides strong evidence against artificial nutrition in early stages of pediatric intensive care.
Canada's nutrition label regulations are set to undergo a significant overhaul, with added sugars to be included in the new design. The move aims to help Canadians better manage their sugar intake and align with US standards.
Ajay Jain, a SLU hepatologist, is researching preventative strategies for parenteral nutrition-associated injuries. He aims to understand the interplay of bile acid regulated pathways and assess the role of the gut microbiome during PN.
The updated MyPlate for Older Adults icon emphasizes the nutritional needs of older adults, focusing on 50% fruits and vegetables, 25% whole grains, and 25% protein-rich foods. The icon also encourages physical activity and reduces sodium intake through spices.
A new study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found that higher protein consumption is associated with increased feelings of fullness after meals. Researchers conducted a systematic review of evidence on protein intake and perceived fullness, confirming that protein does make us feel fuller.
Researchers are launching a controlled experiment in four area school districts, introducing school gardens and nutrition and cooking classes for high-risk students. The program aims to improve dietary intake and reduce obesity and metabolic risk, with promising effects seen in an earlier pilot study.
The University of Kentucky researcher has helped draft a comprehensive position paper on nutrition and athletic performance, synthesizing over eight years of research to provide evidence-based recommendations for athletes. The paper emphasizes the need for individualized nutrition plans that account for various factors affecting athlet...
A recent study published in the Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition found that children with autism do not have a unique pattern of abnormal results on endoscopy or other tests for gastrointestinal disorders. The researchers analyzed the results of diagnostic tests in 61 children with autism being evaluated for GI sympt...
Research shows that potatoes are a well-liked vegetable among young children and are a good source of key nutrients like potassium and dietary fiber. Including potatoes in school meals can help ensure children receive these essential nutrients.
Researchers found that a novel combination of prebiotics, milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) and lactoferrin added to a DHA- and ARA-containing formula advanced overall brain development in piglets. The study suggests that myelination occurred at a faster rate in piglets fed the supplemented diet.
A new meta-analysis published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology found that consuming 1-1.5 avocados per day significantly reduced total cholesterol, LDL-C, and triglycerides when replaced with solid fats. Avocado consumption did not impact HDL levels.
Researchers found isomaltulose reduces GIP secretion and increases GLP-1 secretion, preserving insulin secretion. This helps prevent severe fluctuations in blood glucose levels.
Research from the University of Bath found that eating breakfast was associated with more physical activity and reduced food intake later in the day among obese individuals. The study, which compared a fasting group with a breakfasting group, built on previous research into the effects of breakfast on health.
The sports nutrition market is growing, with $6.3 billion in sales in 2014, but clinical studies on supplements are still limited, raising questions about their safety and effectiveness.
Researchers found diabetic rats fed an egg-based diet had higher concentrations of vitamin D, improved blood glucose levels, and gained less weight. The study suggests that eating whole eggs, including the yolk, may be beneficial for diabetics with vitamin D deficiency.
A new study from the University of Eastern Finland found that children who drink at least three glasses of milk per day have higher serum vitamin D levels than their peers. The use of vitamin D supplements and regular exercise also contribute to improved vitamin D levels in children.
A new study found that graphical displays of fiber and protein per calorie values can encourage consumers to purchase healthier menu items. The researchers observed a significant reduction in calories purchased from entrees and an increase in protein per calorie when nutrition information was displayed graphically.
Researchers analyzed over 2,200 breakfast cereals and prepared meals with front-of-pack (FOP) claims, finding no correlation between the claims and nutritional quality. The FDA defines four types of FOP claims, but none can distinguish 'healthy' foods.
A new study published in the Journal of Marketing Research found that simplified nutritional labeling spurs healthier food choices in grocery stores. The study used the NuVal scoring system and found a 20% increase in healthy choices, while price sensitivity dropped by 19%.
A high-fat diet during pregnancy and lactation leads to epigenetic changes in the offspring, affecting metabolic pathways regulated by the gut hormone GIP. Adult offspring are more susceptible to obesity and insulin resistance, similar mechanisms cannot be ruled out in humans.
A recent study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that zinc supplementation significantly improved serum zinc concentrations and T-cell function in older adults with low zinc levels. The researchers also discovered a positive correlation between serum zinc levels and the number and effectiveness of T-cells.
A study of 364 restaurant meals found that 92% exceeded daily calorie requirements. Researchers propose restaurants be required to offer portion control options at a proportional price.
African smallholder farmers purchase over half of their seeds annually through local markets and informal sources. Local legume markets are particularly important, accounting for 64% of seed transactions. The study highlights the need to expand high-quality seed delivery to smallholder farmers through formal and informal channels.
A new clinical trial found that a specialized oral nutrition supplement reduced the death rate of malnourished adults with heart or lung disease by 50% within 90 days of hospitalization. The study also showed improvements in body weight, nutritional status, and Vitamin D levels.
Research from the Cornell Food & Brand Lab found that smaller recommended serving sizes on nutrition labels can mislead consumers into purchasing more of unhealthy foods like cookies. Shoppers tend to ignore serving size differences and assume healthier products.
Two letters to the editor debate the use of memory-based dietary assessment methods (M-BMs) in formulating dietary policies. Experts disagree on the credibility of M-BMs, with some arguing they are scientifically invalid and others citing limitations that can be mitigated by using multiple data sources.
A Finnish study found that high body adiposity and low physical activity are related to poorer physical fitness in children. However, physically active overweight children performed better in fitness tests compared to inactive peers.
A study by Tufts University researchers found that high folic acid intake causes a lowered immune response in aged mice, particularly affecting natural killer cells. The study used an aged mouse model and found that excess folic acid impaired NK cell development, leading to reduced immunity against viral infections and cancer.
Two studies found that recurrent acute and chronic pancreatitis in children has a high disease burden, with 42% rate of rehospitalizations and estimated annual healthcare costs of $40,000. The studies highlight the need for information and research to prevent suffering and reduce costs.
A new study by Cornell Food & Brand Lab found that nutritionally improved kid's meals at Disney World resulted in 48% of diners opting for the healthier option. The healthier alternatives reduced calories, fat, and sodium by 21.4%, 43.9%, and 43.4%, respectively.
The University of Tennessee is working to solve its state and nation's obesity problem with a new center focused on reducing childhood obesity. The USDA grant will support programs like SNAP-Ed and EFNEP to improve nutrition education and address barriers to healthy living.
A new study found that adult consumers of fresh pears had a lower body weight and were 35% less likely to be obese compared to non-pear consumers. Pear consumption was also associated with higher diet quality, as defined by the Healthy Eating Index.
A new study confirms that home-delivered meals provide more than just nutrition and food security for seniors. The research found that meal delivery significantly reduced feelings of loneliness among participants, particularly those who received daily deliveries.
The project aims to enhance access to nutritious food for the rural poor, particularly for women and children, by scaling up research and policy changes that promote a more diverse diet. Empowering women through leadership roles in producer groups and labor-saving techniques is also key to addressing malnutrition.
A new study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found that both online and in-person group education are effective in helping parents reduce breakfast-skipping and improve other breakfast-related nutritional knowledge and behaviors. The study involved 590 WIC participants, with both groups showing improve...
The World Bank's new 'Power of Nutrition' fund aims to promote breastfeeding and reduce undernutrition in developing countries. Investments in this area could transform the health and economy of these nations, particularly during the critical first two years of a child's life.
A new study published in Cell Press found that the glycemic index of foods varies significantly between individuals, contradicting traditional dietary recommendations. The research, led by Eran Segal and Eran Elinav, used a large cohort of participants to demonstrate the power of personalized nutrition in managing blood sugar levels an...
A large prospective community-based study of older Americans found that modest physical activity is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Walking at a pace faster than three miles per hour and engaging in leisure activities such as lawn-mowing, raking, or hiking also showed significant CVD benefits.
A new study suggests that coconut oil can effectively control the overgrowth of a fungal pathogen called Candida albicans in mice. The research found that a coconut oil-rich diet reduced C. albicans in the gut by more than 90% compared to other dietary fats.
In a new study, elite ultra-endurance runners who eat very few carbohydrates burned more than twice as much fat as high-carb athletes during maximum exertion and prolonged exercise. The study reveals that low-carb diets can augment physical performance and recovery, challenging conventional sports nutrition advice.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled trials found that consuming tree nuts lowers total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and inflammation. Nuts were shown to be particularly beneficial for lowering cardiovascular disease risk in populations with type-2 diabetes.
Scientists at the University of Illinois have developed a process to track the movement of lycopene, a cancer-fighting compound found in tomatoes, in the human body. The study used plant biofactories to produce heavier versions of lycopene, which can be easily tracked in the body.
A national survey of 1,604 adult smartphone users found that 58% had downloaded a health-related mobile application, with 65% reporting improved health. However, concerns about cost, disinterest, and privacy barriers hinder wider adoption. More research is needed to maximize the impact of health apps on overall health.
Research by Queensland University of Technology found that people living alone are more likely to have poor dieting habits due to inadequate cooking skills and lack of motivation. The study also found a gender disparity in healthy eating practices, with men living alone having poorer diets than women.
Recent improvements in US diet have helped reduce disease and premature death, but the overall American diet remains poor. Researchers found that healthier eating habits can cumulatively prevent 1.1 million premature deaths over 14 years.
Dr. Christine Olson, a renowned expert in fetal-maternal nutrition, has been named the March of Dimes Agnes Higgins honoree. Her research has provided critical information on the risks of excessive weight gain during pregnancy and its impact on baby health.
Premature birth can be lifesaving with TPN, but it also causes liver damage. Dr. Ajay Jain is studying ways to prevent TPN-related complications in newborns.
A systematic review found that pear consumption is associated with improved gut health and a reduced risk of chronic diseases. The study's findings suggest that pears' high fiber content may play a key role in these benefits.
A Rutgers study found that Bornean orangutan populations thrive in Indonesian peat-swamp forests with sufficient high-energy food, but struggle in areas with limited nutrition. Conservation efforts must prioritize suitable habitats for successful reintroduction and population increase.
A study of 1533 cancer survivors revealed poor adherence to dietary guidelines, with lower intakes of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, but higher intakes of empty calories. Diet quality improved with age and education level.
A new review emphasizes the significance of nutrition throughout life for maintaining a healthy skeleton, particularly in children and seniors who are at risk of osteoporosis. The study finds that adequate intake of calcium, vitamin D, and protein can help prevent premature bone loss and fractures.
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans should incorporate sustainability considerations to address the health and wellbeing of Americans and the planet. Sustainability evaluations may lead to future regulation, change food-group guidance, and form new political coalitions that favor sustainable diets.
Researchers found that shielding parenteral nutrition from light significantly decreases oxidative stress and cell damage in premature infants, improving their survival rates. The study's findings suggest a potential solution for reducing mortality rates in preterm infants born between 26-31 weeks of gestation.
The BMJ investigation found that the expert report underlying the latest US dietary guidelines fails to reflect relevant scientific literature, risking a misleading picture. The guidelines affect millions of Americans and food labelling, education, and research priorities.
Scientists have discovered that the gut microbiome of right whales and other baleen species shares traits with both cows and meat-eating predators. This dual microbial community enables whales to digest not only copepods but also their chitin-rich shells, providing a significant nutritional benefit.
A large cohort study found that increased fruit and vegetable consumption is associated with lower weight gain in adults. The study of over 133,000 participants found that eating more fruits and certain non-starchy vegetables was inversely linked to weight change over 24 years.
A new study reveals that smokers are up to 3.6 times more likely to lose their teeth, with male smokers being the most affected. Quitting smoking can reduce this risk, although it may take over a decade for ex-smokers to regain the same level of dental health as non-smokers.
Elementary and middle school students given at least 25 minutes to eat lunch are more likely to choose fruits and consume key nutrients. Longer lunch periods can lead to healthier food choices and reduced plate waste in schools.
A new study of over 22,000 U.S. adults found that diet-beverage consumers often make up for the calorie lack in their drinks by consuming more sugar, sodium, fat, and cholesterol in other foods. The study suggests a possible compensation effect where people who drink diet beverages may feel justified in eating more high-calorie foods.