Research on diet and how food affects the body. Covers the microbiome, meal timing, cardiovascular risk, and nutrition in illness.
A study at Tufts University found that cravings don't go away during dieting and are linked to types of foods craved. Participants who lost more body weight were less likely to give in to their cravings, suggesting that allowing oneself to have crave foods can be key to successful weight control.
Researchers found that consuming diets with a higher glycemic index increased the risk of developing advanced AMD, with severity linked to dietary glycemic index. The study suggests improving dietary carbohydrate quality through simple alterations may help prevent AMD progression.
A new USC study finds that Hispanics born in the US are more likely to suffer from conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure compared to those who emigrate from Mexico. This contradicts the long-held 'Hispanic Paradox,' which suggested Hispanics in the US were healthier than whites despite being poorer and less educated.
Researchers found that increased body fat in elderly adults is associated with lower levels of vitamin D, regardless of sunlight exposure. Vitamin D is critical for maintaining bone health and low levels can increase the risk of bone fractures and osteoporosis.
A study published in Clinical Chemistry found that genetic variations in the APOA2 gene are associated with dietary preferences, particularly for fat, protein, and carbohydrate. Individuals with a certain genotype were more likely to consume higher amounts of fat, calories, and be obese compared to those with other genotypes.
A clinical study showed Diachrome significantly improved glycemic control in patients with poorly controlled blood sugar levels, reducing A1C by 0.54% and fasting glucose by 9.8 mg/dL. The greatest improvement was seen in those with the poorest glycemic control, who experienced an additional absolute A1C decrease of 1.76%.
A community intervention campaign in Herkimer County increased comfort with breastfeeding in public, from 54% to 69% among men and 35% to 46% among women. The project aims to reduce obesity risk in infants through improved cultural acceptance of breastfeeding.
Researchers found that adult men and postmenopausal women require significantly higher amounts of choline to prevent fatty liver and muscle damage. Eggs are an excellent source of this essential nutrient, providing nearly half the recommended daily supply per serving.
A recent study published in American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that the relationship between birth weight and future heart disease risk is not as strong as previously thought. The research suggests that other risk factors, such as smoking and obesity, have a greater impact on heart health.
The Shape Up Somerville program, a community-based environmental change intervention, reduced weight gain among elementary school-aged children by approximately one pound over eight months. The multi-faceted program included initiatives to promote healthy eating options and physical activity in schools, homes, and communities.
Two studies found that eating eggs for breakfast can lead to significant weight loss and improved energy levels. Additionally, eggs are an excellent source of choline, essential for brain function and development, and may help close the nutrient consumption gap among pregnant women and older adults.
A nationally representative study of over 2,000 people aged 65+ found snacking is crucial to ensure adequate calorie consumption. Researchers also discovered poor dietary intakes among children with sickle cell disease, including low vitamin and mineral levels.
A national analysis of US beverage patterns suggests that sweet drinks contribute significantly to calorie intake, while milk beverages are associated with healthier weights and higher nutrient intakes. The study recommends choosing lowfat and fat-free milk over sweetened beverages for improved diet quality.
Researchers found that de-stocking livestock and receiving cash helped families feed themselves, maintain core herds, and access vital services during droughts. This approach supported local economies and reduced the need for humanitarian assistance.
The Complete Guide to Nutrition in Primary Care provides comprehensive guidance for doctors and health professionals on nutrition counseling, medical nutritional therapy, and lifestyle behaviors. The book aims to reduce the high incidence of nutrition-related diseases in the US by educating healthcare providers.
A recent study by Deakin University found that Australian teenagers eat fast food daily, leading to nutrient deficiencies. Only one-third of teens consume a variety of foods from the five food groups every day.
Researchers found that for people with a specific genetic variant, dietary fat intake was not significantly associated with body mass index (BMI) or risk of obesity. However, consuming monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) like olive oil may help lower the likelihood of obesity in these individuals.
A new study has found that calorie-restricted diets with low or high glycemic loads result in comparable long-term weight loss. Participants lost an average of 8% of their original body weight, regardless of diet type, after one year on a 30% calorie-restricted diet.
Studies found that family dinners with TV are associated with lower fruit and vegetable consumption, while college students with higher BMI tend to choose larger food portions. These findings suggest the importance of promoting healthy meal environments and portion control among young adults.
The study found that socio-economic status affects food choice, with lower-income individuals more likely to prioritize affordable options. It also revealed gender differences in dietary habits, with women being more concerned about meeting health guidelines.
Research suggests that excessive TV viewing among young children is associated with poor eating habits, including increased consumption of sugary drinks and extra calories. The study found a correlation between longer hours of TV watching and lower intakes of healthful foods like fruits and vegetables.
A new study from Tufts University found that high folate status and adequate vitamin B12 levels are associated with better cognitive function in seniors. Low vitamin B12 status was linked to increased cognitive impairment, while high serum folate was more detrimental when combined with low vitamin B12.
Researchers at Tufts University have found that while older adults consume more vitamin K than younger adults, many still do not meet the recommended intake. High phylloquinone intake may be associated with better dietary habits and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, but further research is needed.
Renowned nutrition expert Dr. Irwin Rosenberg emphasizes the need for more research on vitamins and minerals, highlighting the limitations of current evidence. He advocates for standardized regulations on multivitamin products to ensure customer safety and informed marketing.
Researchers found improvements in diet quality for heart disease prevention over the last two decades, with increased fruit, vegetable, and whole grain intake. However, concerns remain about sodium and energy balance. Additionally, African-American communities face low dairy consumption and inadequate nutrient intakes.
A review published in Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics confirms chromium picolinate's benefits in improving glycemic control and normalizing lipid levels. Higher doses of chromium picolinate are required for people with type 2 diabetes, and its greater bioavailability may explain its superior effects.
Critically ill patients receiving early enteral nutrition had lower rates of liver dysfunction compared to those fed through central venous catheters. Early feeding was associated with reduced liver dysfunction, longer ICU stays, but no increased mortality.
A recent study published in Diabetes Technology and Therapeutics demonstrated that Diachrome safely improves blood glucose levels and cholesterol metabolism in people with type 2 diabetes. The 30-day study showed a significantly greater reduction in glucose levels, suggesting potential benefits for improved blood sugar control.
A University of Minnesota study found that families who frequently eat fast food for dinner have poorer access to healthy foods, drink more soda, and are at a higher risk of obesity. Limiting fast food intake at home can help improve eating habits and overall health.
A University of Bristol study found that grocery store tours are an effective way to increase nutritional knowledge and promote healthy eating habits. The tours, led by a nutritionist or dietician, provided evidence-based dietary advice and encouraged participants to make changes to their diet.
The trans fat ban in New York City is a step in the right direction, but restaurateurs need to replace partially hydrogenated fat with unsaturated fat. The regulation also requires restaurants to provide calorie information prominently, which may be even more important for addressing obesity and promoting heart health.
Research reveals that nearly one-fourth of people with HIV have metabolic syndrome, characterized by low HDL cholesterol and hypertriglyceridemia. HAART users also show increased risk for components of metabolic syndrome, highlighting the need for healthcare providers to monitor risk factors.
Parke Wilde's analysis reveals that checkoff programs, such as 'Got Milk?' and 'Pork. The other white meat?', promote calorie-heavy foods like bacon cheeseburgers and barbecue pork ribs, which contradict the Dietary Guidelines' emphasis on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products.
Researchers found that soft drink ads in schools were linked to lower participation in school lunch programs, suggesting these ads compete with school lunches for students' attention. Schools' wellness policies provide opportunities to examine advertising that might conflict with their goals for a healthy climate.
A RAND Corporation study found that adolescent Asian immigrants improved their preventive health behaviors, such as physical activity and nutrition, across generations. In contrast, Latino teens showed poorer or worsening habits over time, particularly in nutrition, which may contribute to high obesity rates among the Latino community.
A UGA professor studied the origins of Calories, a unit measuring food energy. He found that there is controversy about who invented the Calorie, with different sources citing Frenchmen P.A. Favre and J.T. Silbermann, German physician Julius Mayer, and French chemist Nicholas Clement as contributors to its development.
A 3-year study shows significant improvements in self-esteem, nutrition, physical activity, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels among teen girls participating in the Teen Esteem program. The program aims to address obesity and other health issues in high-risk teen girls.
Physicians can now provide personalized exercise recommendations using the FITT-PRO guidelines, which include frequency, intensity, type, time, and progression. Regular physical activity has been shown to benefit people of all fitness levels, particularly seniors who have limited access to information.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that cola consumption is associated with lower bone mineral density in older women, regardless of age, menopausal status, or diet. This may be due to phosphoric acid's potential to promote calcium loss from bones.
A clinical trial shows that Garli-Eze, a unique garlic product, can deliver large amounts of allicin directly to the upper gastrointestinal tract for easy absorption. This process eliminates degradation issues and allows for effective cardiovascular benefits.
A new Loma Linda University study confirms that eating pecans daily can inhibit unwanted oxidation of blood lipids, reducing the risk of heart disease. The research found that pecans contain gamma tocopherol, a form of vitamin E, which protects fats from oxidation.
A study found that many patients have difficulty interpreting and applying serving sizes on food labels, particularly those with poor literacy and numeracy skills. This can make it hard for patients to follow a good diet, highlighting the need for healthcare providers and the FDA to improve communication and label design.
A randomized control group study found that second graders who participated in the 'Healthy Choices, Healthy Me!' program scored 20% higher on food guidance system questions and reported significant increases in selecting healthy foods. The program was also effective in changing behavior over time.
According to researchers at the US Department of Agriculture and the National Cancer Institute, most Americans do not meet daily recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables. The new MyPyramid recommendations are 2 to 6 ½ cups per day, with only 17 percent of women age 51-70 meeting their combined recommendation. Salad consumption is p...
A study by Rutgers University found that portion distortion, where consumers perceive large portions as normal serving sizes, may contribute to expanding waistlines. The research suggests that efforts to educate the public on limiting excess calories from foods like salad dressing have been successful.
A UC Davis study of a Sacramento-area program found that healthier snack options increased daily servings of fruit by 83 percent and reduced saturated fat consumption by 42 percent. However, the new menu also led to a reduction in calcium and vitamin A intake due to the removal of dairy products.
Researchers investigated nutritional links between smoking and oral cancer, finding folate levels lower in smokers' blood and cheek cells. Smokers also had altered forms of folate distribution, while antioxidants like carotenoids and vitamin E showed similar trends. More studies are needed to clarify these findings.
Researchers developed a new measure of adherence to dietary guidelines in young children, finding that adherence decreases as children get older. An adjustable wedge aid also showed promise in reducing portion size estimation errors.
A Penn State study found that providing nutritional information at the point of service increases student satisfaction with food quality, but not ambiance or cost. The researchers also noted that students who were more empowered to make informed choices had higher ratings for service personnel.
A study published in PLOS Biology found that zebra finch siblings reared on lower-quality diets showed improved growth rates after switching to a normal diet, but at the cost of impaired learning performance. Compensatory growth, rather than diet quality itself, was linked to poor cognitive ability in adulthood.
A study published in Appetite magazine found that people who like sweets tend to eat more fruit, while those who prefer fruits tend to eat more sweets. The research analyzed data from over 770 individuals and suggests that understanding food preferences can inform strategies to increase fruit consumption.
A study of over 10,000 men and women found that increased calcium intake from supplements may help maintain weight over a decade. Additionally, education level can influence nutrition information sources among older adults, with less-educated individuals relying more on doctors, television, and neighbors.
The task force identified rapidly expanding research on vitamin D's benefits beyond bone health, as well as growing interest in nutrient-dense foods. Probiotics and prebiotics were also discussed for their intestinal and immune health benefits.
Women with high-glycemic-index diets had greater risk of early AMD, regardless of total carbohydrate intake. Dietary quality, not quantity, may play a crucial role in AMD development.
Researchers found that orange and grapefruit juice can increase antioxidants in rats' systems, leading to enhanced bone density. The study suggests a potential link between citrus consumption and improved bone health.
A survey found that many people do not look at food labels or understand the calorie information they contain, which may limit the effectiveness of nutrition labeling legislation in combating obesity. A high-fiber diet was also found to be associated with normal body fat stores and standard weight for height in adults.
A study found that women in low-income food-insecure households are 50% more likely to be obese and gain at least 10 pounds in a year compared to those in fully secure households. Researchers propose modifying food assistance programs and nutrition education to address this issue.
A study finds that HIV's impact on severe child malnutrition is limited, and economic growth does not always improve nutrition. The development agenda must tackle child wasting to make a lasting impact on human well-being.
A new study found that high-flavanol cocoa improves skin structure and function, increasing hydration and decreasing skin roughness. The study suggests that the benefits of cocoa flavanols may be due to improved blood flow to the skin.
Adolescents who play sports tend to have better eating habits and nutrient intake compared to their non-sporting peers. In contrast, nearly half of children and young adults with diabetes fail to meet daily nutritional requirements, posing a significant challenge for disease management.