Research on diet and how food affects the body. Covers the microbiome, meal timing, cardiovascular risk, and nutrition in illness.
A Wayne State University researcher has found that ProAlgaZyme, an algae extract, increases high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels in animal models. This increase is associated with improved lipid profiles and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.
A new study by UNC Chapel Hill researchers reveals Chinese teenagers have a significantly higher rate of diabetes (1.9%) compared to their US counterparts (0.5%). The study also found high levels of inflammation and cardiometabolic risk factors in Chinese children, with over one-third having at least one risk factor.
A systematic analysis found that most developing countries have made limited progress towards halving childhood hunger by 2015. The study estimates that the global developing world has less than a 5% chance of meeting this target, with significant improvements seen in Asia and Latin America.
Research found that consuming more dietary vitamin B12 and animal protein lowered arsenic levels in toenails, while eating more vegetable and animal fat also had a protective effect. However, omega-3 fatty acids were associated with increased arsenic levels.
A new study highlights how parents, coaches, and youth sport organizations can promote healthful eating for youth athletes. Parents reported frequent visits to fast-food restaurants and struggled to determine which food options were healthy, despite considering youth sports an unhealthy environment.
A Purdue University study found that monounsaturated fat-rich dressings promote equivalent carotenoid absorption at low and high levels of fat. In contrast, saturated fat dressings required higher amounts of fat for the same benefit, while polyunsaturated fat dressings were highly dependent on dose.
The new website at www.naturaltransfats.ca explores the differences between industrial and natural trans fats, providing key information on nutrition labels and food choices. Key findings suggest that natural trans fats found in meat and milk from ruminant animals are not harmful and may have health-enhancing potential.
A 25-year study in Northern Sweden found that a switch to low-carbohydrate diets after reducing fat intake led to an increase in cholesterol levels, indicating a higher cardiovascular risk. Despite initial success in reducing cholesterol levels through dietary changes, the population's BMI continued to rise over time.
Researchers found that people who restrict their caloric intake for seven years have better heart rate variability, a measure of the heart's ability to adapt to physical activity and stress. This is associated with improved cardiovascular health and may indicate a longer lifespan.
A new study funded by the California Raisin Marketing Board found that eating raisins as an after-school snack prevents excessive calorie intake and increases feelings of fullness. The three-month study among normal-weight children ages 8-11 showed significant benefits from snacking on raisins.
A Queen's University professor and his research team received a prestigious NIH grant to investigate the impact of 'topping up' with intravenous nutrition on survival rates among critically ill patients. The study aims to create new guidelines for optimal energy and protein delivery to critically ill patients.
A new MSU study highlights the nutritional benefits of canned fruits and vegetables, which are safer, healthier, and more convenient than fresh or frozen options. Canned foods can help Americans meet the IOM's Weight of the Nation recommendations, especially for those in food deserts.
The study found that prenatal multiple micronutrient supplementation (MMS) combined with early food supplementation reduced infant mortality rates. Infants in the early invitation with MMS group had a lower risk of death compared to those receiving usual invitation with 60 mg of iron and 400 μg of folic acid.
A collaborative team of researchers identified a safe upper level for vitamin A consumption in puppies, highlighting that puppies can metabolize higher levels of vitamin A than previously thought. The study validated existing guidelines set by the FEDIAF and provides valuable insights into puppies' nutritional needs.
A study found that in-person counseling improved purchasing of fruits and green and yellow vegetables, resulting in healthier food choices. The study suggests that supermarket interventions can promote meaningful health benefits by encouraging shoppers to choose nutritious options.
A new systematic assessment helps diagnose malnutrition in patients with chronic diseases and acute injuries, considering inflammation status. The approach aims to guide practitioners in selecting nutrition interventions and predicting outcomes.
A study found that amoxicillin-clavulanate triggers groups of propagated contractions within the small intestine, improving small bowel transit and influencing gut microbiome. The antibiotic may be effective in patients with alterations of duodenal phase III, chronic symptoms of intestinal pseudo-obstruction.
Research at the Experimental Biology Conference presents promising findings on avocado's potential benefits for heart health, weight management and type 2 diabetes. The study supports a multi-year effort by the Hass Avocado Board to build a scientific foundation for avocados' nutritional benefits.
Obese and overweight children are more disliked by their classmates than healthy-weight peers, study finds. This negative social environment can lead to decreased physical activity and emotional eating, making childhood obesity worse over time.
A review of eight studies suggests that fish oil supplementation can improve clinical measures of periodontitis, particularly when combined with aspirin. Intake of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids is recommended for general health benefits beyond oral care.
Research suggests that whole egg consumption can improve markers of metabolic syndrome, including HDL metabolism and inflammation. Higher-protein breakfasts also lead to increased feelings of satiety and reduced high-fat snacking.
Researchers found that daily consumption of dark chocolate (70% cocoa) lowered blood glucose and LDL cholesterol levels while increasing HDL cholesterol levels. This study suggests that moderate dark chocolate consumption may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by improving glucose and lipid profiles.
Researchers found that mice with intestinal bacteria from obese animals gained more weight and became more obese when fed a high-fat diet. The study suggests that specific gut microbiota profiles may promote excess weight gain and influence food intake. The findings offer hope for developing new strategies to prevent and treat obesity.
A recent review of scientific literature found benefits to children who had frequent family meals, including increased fruit and vegetable intake, and lower consumption of unhealthy foods. The study suggests that families who eat together regularly may be at a lower risk of obesity and poor nutritional status.
A market-basket study compared the cost of key nutrients from canned, fresh, frozen and dried varieties of common foods. Canned foods were found to be more affordable and convenient than their fresh counterparts, offering significant savings in terms of preparation time and nutrient content.
Researchers found that consuming out-of-hand nuts led to higher intakes of healthy fats, fiber, and lower carbohydrate intake. This was associated with a reduced risk of hypertension and low HDL cholesterol levels in both children and adults.
A new study suggests that improving or maintaining physical fitness helps obese and overweight children reach a healthy weight. The research found that students who were initially underfit became fit, leading to a healthier weight, with benefits seen in both boys and girls.
Eating commercial baked goods and fast food is linked to a 51% increased risk of developing depression. Those consuming the most fast food have a greater chance of being single, less active, and having poor dieting habits.
A recent study published in Nutrition Journal found that 74% of registered dietitians use dietary supplements regularly, while 22% use them occasionally. The majority (97%) recommend dietary supplements to their clients, citing bone health and overall wellness as top reasons.
A new study found that people who consumed diet beverages tended to be less healthy than those who didn't, but had lower risks when paired with a prudent diet. Those who ate a western diet had increased risk of heart disease regardless of diet drink consumption.
A study published in the American Journal of Veterinary Research found that healthy cats can consume a diet rich in saturated fat without raising their cholesterol levels. The research also showed that increasing the proportion of fat in a cat's diet will not lead to weight gain, as long as daily calorie intake remains constant.
A study at the Clark Park Farmers' Market in Philadelphia found that vendors can increase SNAP sales by 38% when using wireless point-of-sale terminals, but the costs may be out of reach for farmers. The study highlights the need for an equitable approach to subsidizing EBT fees at farmers' markets.
Consuming tree nuts like pistachios is associated with lower risk factors for metabolic syndrome, including abdominal obesity, hypertension, and elevated fasting glucose. Pistachios are also high in fiber, vitamin B6, manganese, and copper, making them a healthy snack option that can aid in weight management and support heart health.
Recent studies have demonstrated that flavanols and procyanidins play distinct roles in the human body, with flavanols being directly absorbed to exert cardiovascular benefits. In contrast, procyanidins are poorly absorbed and do not break down into flavanols, suggesting a need for more precise discrimination between these phytonutrients.
A University of Georgia study found that convenience stores in low-income black neighborhoods often lack fresh produce, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products. The research also revealed that supermarkets are scarce in these areas, leaving residents with limited shopping options.
A study found that making one lunch line a convenience line with healthy grab-and-go foods increased sales of nutritious options by 18% and decreased consumption of unhealthy foods by nearly 28%. This approach helped students take more milk, leading to a share of healthier foods increasing from 33% to 36%.
A specific daily serving goal of low-glycemic-index foods significantly improved dietary habits among people with Type 2 diabetes. Participants who set a higher individualized goal and felt more committed showed better results in reaching the goal.
A literature review highlights the decisive role of grandmothers in mother and child nutrition and health, particularly in rural and urban areas of Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Grandmothers provide care for women and children, advise on nutrition and health matters, and influence maternal and child nutrition-related practices.
A Concordia University study found that adults in Canada, especially those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, do not consume enough fruits and vegetables. Quebecers, on the other hand, tend to eat more of nature's produce, making them a model for healthy eating habits.
A new study from Penn State suggests that lean beef can be part of a heart-healthy diet when saturated fat levels are controlled. The DASH diet, which emphasizes plant protein foods and fish, was compared to two other diets: Beef in an Optimal Lean Diet (BOLD) and BOLD plus additional protein.
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends expanding Medicare coverage for medical nutrition therapy (MNT) services, which demonstrate significant health benefits and cost-effectiveness. MNT can help manage chronic conditions, such as hypertension, obesity, and cancer, and improve quality of life.
A new study published in American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that diets including lean beef every day are as effective in lowering total and LDL 'bad' cholesterol as the 'gold standard' of heart-healthy diets. Participants experienced a 10% decrease in LDL cholesterol from consuming 4.0 oz/day of lean beef daily.
A study published in European Journal of Nutrition found that drinking two glasses of tart cherry juice per day significantly improved sleep behaviors in healthy adults. The researchers attribute the benefits to the melatonin content of tart cherries, a powerful antioxidant critical for regulating the sleep-wake cycle.
Professor Michael F. Holick received the American College of Nutrition Communication Media Award for his outstanding media contributions promoting better nutrition. He was also a keynote presenter at the ACN Conference, highlighting the importance of vitamin D in good health.
A lower glycemic index diet has been shown to delay the development of age-related retinal lesions in mice, which are similar to those seen in Age-Related Macular Degeneration. The study found that mice on a lower GI diet had fewer and less-severe lesions than those on a higher GI diet.
A study found that cooking programs like Cooking with Kids integrate nutrition education with academic subjects, strengthening students' understanding of content and developing social skills. The program helps students develop good food habits and treats them respectfully, preparing them for adulthood.
PlateMate's calorie estimates have proved accurate like those of trained nutritionists and more so than users' logs. The research was presented at the 24th ACM Symposium on User Interface Software and Technology, a leading conference on human-computer interaction.
A new eye-tracking study found that consumers' self-reported viewing of Nutrition Facts label components was higher than objectively measured viewing. Centrally located labels were viewed more frequently and for longer periods than those located peripherally, with key nutrients nearer the top being viewed most often.
Researchers at WALTHAM Centre for Pet Nutrition found that a diet high in moisture boosts urinary tract health in cats by increasing daily water intake, urine volume, and dilution. This helps reduce the risk of urinary stone disease in cats.
A team of researchers at WALTHAM found that neutered female kittens consumed more food and gained more body weight than their entire littermates. The study suggests that portion control is crucial for maintaining healthy weight in neutered kittens.
A recent study of over 7,800 ICU patients in 33 countries found that those receiving at least two-thirds of their prescribed calorie intake had reduced mortality rates. The optimal caloric intake was approximately 80-85% of total prescribed calorie intake.
A new study by University of Bristol researchers found that familiarity with snack foods affects children's expectations of fullness, influencing portion sizes. Children who are infrequent consumers rely on food appearance, whereas familiar eaters predict fullness based on product characteristics.
A new study at the American Dietetic Association Conference shows that moving fruit into a colorful bowl increases fruit sales by 104% in schools. The Cornell Center for Behavioral Economics in Child Nutrition Programs is working with the White House and food industry leaders to promote healthier school lunches.
A two-year study by Montana State University researchers found that heifers can safely reduce their feed intake during the seven months between weaning and breeding. This results in cost savings of $21 per animal, with industry-wide savings being significant, especially in drought areas.
A new study from the University of Missouri shows Jump Into Action (JIA), a school-based physical activity program, is effective in changing unhealthy youth behaviors. JIA participants reported increased knowledge of health behaviors and adopted many of these behaviors, leading to improved nutrition and reduced screen time.
Research presented at the American Dietetic Association's Food and Nutrition Conference and Expo shows that potatoes provide significantly better nutritional value per dollar than other raw vegetables. Potatoes are the lowest cost source of dietary potassium, with a medium-sized potato containing more potassium than a banana.
University of Missouri nutrition experts recommend eating balanced meals and farm-fresh produce to promote healthy eating choices. Families can implement healthy eating ideas by trying seasonal fruits and vegetables, such as those available at local farmers markets or grocery stores.
A recent Harvard University study found that milk-drinking teens had a 43% lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes as adults. The research also showed that maintaining dairy habits through adulthood can lead to less weight gain and a reduced risk of the disease.
A University of Alberta nutrition expert recommends re-evaluating trans fat labelling due to evidence suggesting natural trans fats have positive health effects. Natural trans fats found in dairy and beef products are not detrimental to health and may even reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer.
A study found that online tailored nutrition programs had no effect on reducing saturated fat intake, as measured by blood lipids. The researchers suggest exploring methods to improve the impact of computer-tailored interventions and incorporating social interaction.