Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Go ahead, drink your milk

A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found no link between dairy consumption and increased risk of heart disease, stroke, or total mortality. The research also revealed that drinking three glasses of milk per day may lead to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.

SourceGlobal Dairy Platform·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateDec 14, 2010

Peer pressure can keep you healthy

A study of 3610 Australian women found that social norms play a significant role in promoting physical activity and healthy eating behaviors. Women who surrounded themselves with friends who engaged in healthy behaviors were more likely to adopt similar habits.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateDec 6, 2010

Registered dietitians play essential role in effective management of diabetes in adults

A systematic review of American Dietetic Association Nutrition Practice Guidelines provides recommendations for registered dietitians to support people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The guidelines emphasize consistency in carbohydrate intake, insulin dose adjustment, and cardioprotective nutrition interventions.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Dietetic Association·DateNov 23, 2010

Greater food insecurity from recession poses increased risk to low income individuals with diabetes

A new study found that food-insecure adults with diabetes have higher body mass indexes and greater financial constraints on food choices. However, after receiving nutrition education via telemedicine, both groups reported improved diet adherence and similar lab values associated with diabetes care.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateNov 8, 2010

Olive oil protects liver

Researchers found that extra-virgin olive oil and its extracts protect against oxidative damage of hepatic tissue in rats. The study showed a significant increase in antioxidant enzyme activity and a decrease in markers of liver damage, indicating potential health benefits of olive oil consumption.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalNutrition and Metabolism·DateOct 28, 2010

Bicarbonate adds fizz to players' tennis performance

A randomized, controlled trial found that sodium bicarbonate supplementation maintained service and forehand ground stroke consistency in tennis players after a simulated match. The study showed no decline in skilled tennis performance in players who received the supplement.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalJournal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition·DateOct 25, 2010

Making school lunchrooms smarter

A new Cornell University study shows that simple changes like moving fruit to a colorful bowl and creating a speedy 'healthy express' checkout line can significantly increase the sale of healthy options. The research also highlights the importance of making healthy foods more convenient, visible, and appealing to kids.

Eating mostly whole grains, few refined grains linked to lower body fat

A recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that individuals who consume several servings of whole grains per day and limit their intake of refined grains appear to have less visceral adipose tissue, a key factor in cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. The study observed a 10% lower VAT volume in...

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateOct 20, 2010

Proposed dietary guidelines for Americans sharply debated

A recent report by the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee has been criticized for failing to consider recent scientific results, despite its claimed reliance on a newly created USDA Nutrition Evidence Library. The guidelines have been largely immune to criticism, but critics argue that they have contributed to rising rates of obesit...

SourceElsevier·JournalNutrition·DateOct 1, 2010

Blueberries help fight artery hardening, lab animal study indicates

A recent study conducted by the United States Department of Agriculture found that blueberries can help prevent the growth of atherosclerotic lesions in arteries. The research involved feeding 30 young laboratory mice diets spiked with freeze-dried blueberry powder for 20 weeks, resulting in a significant reduction in lesion size.

Male maturity shaped by early nutrition

A new Northwestern University study found that rapid weight gain in the first six months of life predicts earlier puberty for boys and has long-term effects on their physical characteristics and reproductive strategy. The researchers suggest that testosterone plays a key role in shaping these differences.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 13, 2010

Carbohydrate claims can mislead consumers

A study of 4,320 consumer panelists found that low-carbohydrate claims can mislead consumers into perceiving products as healthier and more helpful for weight management. However, when Nutrition Facts panels are available, perceptions become more accurate.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateSep 7, 2010

Microbial breakthrough impacts health, agriculture, biofuels

Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered how a cow rumen bacterium breaks down hemicellulose into simple sugars, with implications for human health, nutrition, and biofuel production. The study provides an enzyme cocktail that can release simple sugars from plant cell walls, advancing the biofuels industry.

A moment on the lips, a year on the hips

A four-week episode of increased energy intake and decreased exercise caused significant weight gain, which was mostly lost within six months. However, the intervention group showed an increased fat mass compared to baseline after two and a half years, highlighting the long-term effects of short-term behavioral changes.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalNutrition and Metabolism·DateAug 24, 2010

Chew on this: 6 dental myths debunked

A review article debunks common dental myths, highlighting the importance of a balanced diet in preventing tooth decay, osteoporosis, and gum disease. Carole Palmer, a professor at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, outlines how nutrition affects oral health in children, teenagers, expectant mothers, adults, and elders.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalNutrition Today·DateAug 5, 2010

Antioxidants do help arteries stay healthy

A randomized controlled trial found that long-term antioxidant supplementation improved glucose and lipid metabolism, increased large and small artery elasticity, and decreased blood pressure in patients with multiple cardiovascular risk factors. The study suggests that antioxidants may have a beneficial impact on cardiovascular health.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalNutrition and Metabolism·DateJul 5, 2010

Are school wellness policies stuck in the Ice Age?

A study of Mississippi elementary teachers reveals that teachers feel little involvement in implementing their school wellness policies, leading to inadequate nutrition education. Researchers recommend involving teachers in policy making and providing resources to help them incorporate nutrition competencies into their lessons.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateJun 18, 2010

Identifying federal research dollars for ag

A new book chapter by American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America, and Soil Science Society of America highlights critical agricultural research areas receiving federal funding, including biofuel production, environmental quality, food safety, and nutrition. The chapter highlights $429 million increase in NIFA's compe...

First course of veggies may appeal to hungry preschoolers

Researchers found that serving carrots as a first course increased broccoli consumption by nearly 50-100% among preschool children. The findings challenge conventional beliefs and provide a simple strategy for parents to promote healthy eating habits in their young children.

SourcePenn State·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMay 5, 2010

ADA releases updated position paper on nutrition assistance programs for children

The American Dietetic Association's updated position paper highlights the importance of nutrition assistance programs for children, citing barriers to participation and the need for more research. The organization encourages programs like School Breakfast, School Lunch, and WIC to be available to all eligible children and adolescents.

SourceAmerican Dietetic Association·JournalJournal of the American Dietetic Association·DateMay 3, 2010

Nutrition education at WIC influences participants to consume more healthful foods

A new WIC nutrition education curriculum in California showed significant improvements in participants' recognition of education messages on healthy eating behaviors. Fruits and vegetables, whole grain consumption, and lower-fat dairy intake increased after the education, suggesting a favorable impact on family nutrition.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateApr 26, 2010

Pennsylvania makes inroads into reducing child obesity

In Pennsylvania, school districts set goals to reduce childhood obesity through improved snacks and nutrition education, resulting in a 75% increase in healthy food options. However, physical activity opportunities remained stagnant despite legislation requiring it, leaving room for improvement.

SourcePenn State·JournalHealth Affairs·DateApr 26, 2010

Keep eating your fruit and vegetables

A new Lancet editorial promotes the 'eat 5 fruit and veg a day' message despite recent findings suggesting a lower protective effect against cancer. Four key benefits remain: heart disease prevention, strong protection against specific cancers, weight management, and bowel cancer prevention.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 15, 2010