Add BrightSurf on Google Email

The onion, a natural alternative to artificial preservatives

Researchers found that onions' flavonoids have antimicrobial properties, increasing the life of foods and inhibiting the growth of microorganisms like Bacillus cereus. This natural alternative reduces reliance on artificial additives used in food industry, offering a stable component with beneficial health effects.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Food Science & Technology·DateApr 14, 2010

Study shows flavanol antioxidant content of US chocolate and cocoa-containing products

A recent study by The Hershey Company confirms that flavanol antioxidant content in US chocolate and cocoa products is highly associated with the amount of non-fat cocoa solids. Cocoa powders, unsweetened baking chocolate, dark chocolate, and semi-sweet chips were found to have the highest levels of flavanol antioxidants.

SourceThe Hershey Company·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateNov 24, 2009

Herbal tonic for radiotherapy

A study published in International Journal of Low Radiation found that extracts of Ginkgo biloba leaves can protect human white blood cells from gamma radiation-induced apoptosis. The results suggest that the antioxidant compounds in Ginkgo biloba extract can neutralize free radicals and prevent cellular damage.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Low Radiation·DateOct 19, 2009

Antioxidants not associated with increased melanoma risk

A recent randomized trial found no association between antioxidant supplementation and melanoma risk in women. Long-term use of beta carotene and selenium also showed no link to melanoma risk. The study included over 69,000 participants and provided new insights into the potential benefits and harms of antioxidant supplements.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateAug 17, 2009

TB vaccine gets its groove back

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have cracked the mystery of a failed TB vaccine by modifying it to reduce antioxidant production, leading to stronger immune responses in mice. The modified BCG vaccine could offer improved protection against pulmonary TB and serve as a platform for other vaccines.

Source of major health benefits in olive oil revealed

Researchers found that DHPEA-EDA protects red blood cells from damage, providing greatest protection against heart attack and stroke. The study suggests virgin olive oils contain higher levels of this compound, which could lead to the production of functional oils designed to reduce heart disease risk.

SourceWiley·JournalMolecular Nutrition & Food Research·DateApr 1, 2009

JCI online early table of contents: Feb. 2, 2009

Researchers found a genetic variation in the HGF gene that increases breast cancer risk, suggesting shortening of a DNA region called DATE could be a useful marker. A study also revealed that high-fat diets can lead to insulin resistance by damaging mitochondria and increasing oxidative stress, but antioxidants may mitigate this effect.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 2, 2009

Honey adds health benefits, is natural preservative and sweetener in salad dressings

A University of Illinois study found that honey, rich in antioxidants, protects the quality of salad dressings for up to nine months while naturally sweetening them. The study substituted honey for chemical additives and high-fructose corn syrup, resulting in a healthier alternative.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateDec 9, 2008

Fried purple tomatoes

Researchers have successfully expressed genes from snapdragon into tomatoes, resulting in higher levels of anthocyanins. The purple tomatoes showed promise in extending the lifespan of cancer-susceptible mice, suggesting potential health benefits for consumers.

SourceNorwich BioScience Institutes·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateOct 26, 2008

COPD? Eat your veggies

Research suggests that eating broccoli may help patients with chronic lung disease by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. The study found decreased levels of NRF2-dependent antioxidants and increased oxidative stress markers in lungs of smokers with COPD.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateSep 12, 2008