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The science of school lunch

The Johnson Lab is developing state-of-the-art digital imaging to measure consumption, which has been validated by a paper in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Researchers are exploring ways to employ the method, including training non-researchers to collect data.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateMay 27, 2014

New guidelines and technology needed for placement of feeding tubes in pediatric patients

Improper placement of nasogastric feeding tubes can have serious and potentially fatal consequences in pediatric patients. The American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition recommends universal best practices, including standard approach to bedside verification, to improve patient safety.

Little exercise and heavy use of electronic media constitute a significant health risk for children

The Physical Activity and Nutrition in Children Study found that low levels of physical activity combined with heavy use of electronic media increases the risk for type 2 diabetes and vascular diseases in 6-8 year-old children. Heavy electronic media use is also linked to higher risk factors even in physically active children.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateMay 20, 2014

Perceived barriers limit WIC CVV use in Arizona

A recent study found that low-income communities and WIC participants in Arizona face significant barriers when using cash value vouchers for purchasing nutrient-dense foods. These barriers include negative interactions with cashiers and lack of training, which can lead to frustration and decreased access to healthy food options.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateMay 6, 2014

As kids age, snacking quality appears to decline

Research found that snacking frequency and diet quality differ by age in schoolchildren, with younger kids benefiting from snacks and teens negatively affected. Nutrient-rich snacks can be a key to improving diet quality in children, especially as they enter adolescence.

SourceBrown University·JournalPublic Health Nutrition·DateMay 6, 2014

Children's TV time is closely linked to parents' viewing habits

A new study published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity found that children aged five and six spend more time watching TV on weekends than during the week, with parents playing a significant role. The research suggests that there is a need to find ways to help families reduce screen-viewing time.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateApr 30, 2014

Are almonds an optimal snack?

Researchers found that almonds can help curb appetites, improve nutrient intake and reduce abdominal fat mass in adults. Snacking on almonds may be a weight-wise strategy depending on the foods consumed, with their nutrient profile supporting a healthy weight.

SourcePorter Novelli·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateApr 25, 2014

News from the Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition, April 2014

A.S.P.E.N. Clinical Guidelines developed recommendations for the care of pediatric patients with intestinal failure at risk of parenteral nutrition-associated liver disease, while a prospective observational study found that feeding interruptions led to negative outcomes in critically ill patients. Intensive nutrition therapy also show...

SourceAmerican Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N.)·JournalJournal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition·DateApr 10, 2014

Cereal flake size influences calorie intake

A study by Penn State researchers found that when cereal flakes are reduced in size, participants pour a smaller volume but still consume more calories. The researchers tested the influence of food volume on calorie intake and found that subjects underestimated their calorie consumption despite consuming larger volumes.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateMar 26, 2014

Deletion of FAT10 gene reduces body fat, slows down aging in mice

Researchers at Tufts University have discovered that deleting the FAT10 gene reduces body fat and extends lifespan in mice by 20%, improving insulin sensitivity and protection against type 2 diabetes. The study provides a promising lead for future research into the role of FAT10 in coordinating immunity and metabolism.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 24, 2014

New reason to eat oats for heart health

Scientists have discovered that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of oat phenolic compounds, particularly avenanthramide, contribute to the heart health benefits of oats. These findings suggest that eating oats may go beyond fiber and provide additional cardio-protective effects.

Salad at concession stands!?

A study by Cornell Food & Brand Lab found that offering 5-10 healthy food options and modifying popular items to reduce saturated fats increased revenue and sales. The healthier items accounted for 9.2% of total sales and parental satisfaction also increased.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalJournal of Public Health·DateMar 14, 2014

Intervention in first 1,000 days vital to fulfilling childhood potential

The special issue emphasizes the importance of combining intervention strategies focusing on both nutrition and early learning to support healthy development. The research reveals that 200 million children under five are not reaching their developmental potential due to poverty, nutritional deficiencies, and lack of responsive caregiving.

SourceWiley·JournalAnnals of the New York Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2014

Heart health through gut health

A new study published in Nutrition Reviews found that certain probiotics can significantly reduce LDL-cholesterol and improve other coronary heart disease risk factors. L. reuteri NCIMB 30242 (Cardioviva) was found to be the most effective, with results similar to those of existing therapeutic lifestyle change dietary options.

SourceFoodMinds LLC·JournalNutrition Reviews·DateFeb 6, 2014

Scientific review points to supplement users engaging in a pattern of healthy habits

A new review published in Nutrition Journal found that dietary supplement users engage in various healthy habits, such as consuming healthier diets and exercising regularly. The study also showed that supplement users tend to make better food choices and incorporate supplements into their lifestyle as part of a broader focus on wellness.

SourceCouncil for Responsible Nutrition·JournalNutrition Journal·DateFeb 6, 2014

Gastric banding patients should closely monitor nutrition following surgery

A recent study published in the Journal of Investigative Medicine found that gastric banding patients often fail to meet daily nutrient requirements despite supplements and counseling. To maintain health after bariatric surgery, patients are advised to consume more protein-rich foods, include fatty fish, and limit processed foods.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of Investigative Medicine·DateJan 30, 2014

Passing bowls family-style teaches day-care kids to respond to hunger cues, fights obesity

A University of Illinois study found that family-style meals help children develop healthy eating habits and recognize their body's hunger cues. The research suggests that Head Start centers are in better compliance with nutrition guidelines than other child-care centers.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateJan 13, 2014

Wayne State cholesterol study shows algal extracts may counter effects of high fat diets

A recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition & Metabolism found that algal extracts from Health Enhancement Products, Inc. improved plasma cholesterol profile despite a hypercholesterolemic state induced by a high fat diet. The extracts increased 'good' cholesterol levels and decreased 'bad' cholesterol concentrations.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalJournal of Nutrition and Metabolism·DateDec 20, 2013

Diet quality links old and young

A Taiwanese study found that high-quality diets among children are correlated with those of their elders, regardless of factors such as household income and parental education. The researchers suggest that grandparents may play a significant role in influencing food habits across generations.

SourceMonash University·JournalEcology of Food and Nutrition·DateDec 17, 2013

Study: Pay kids to eat fruits and vegetables

Researchers found that directly paying students to eat fruits and vegetables increases consumption by 80 percent, while also reducing food waste by 33 percent. This approach is cheaper and more effective than traditional school lunch rules, which often result in a significant amount of wasted produce.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalPublic Health Nutrition·DateDec 16, 2013