Daily Tips
| May 19, 2012 Weight loss may enhance the health and longevity of those with obesity-related health problems. However, weight loss in healthy obese individuals is actually associated with increased mortality. Identifying who needs to lose weight should take this into account. |
| Consumer Link The Downside of Weight Loss? |
| Research Link Can Fam Physician. 2012 May;58(5):517-23. |
| May 18, 2012 The good news on coffee keeps coming. A new study conducted on over 400,000 men and women during a span of 13 years found that deaths from a variety of diseases were lower in those who consumed more coffee. Though this type of study does not establish a "cause and effect" conclusion, it does at least support the concept that coffee is safe and potentially healthy to drink. |
| Consumer Link Coffee Drinkers Get More Time Out of Life: Study |
| Research Link N Engl J Med 2012;366:1891-1904 |
| May 17, 2012 Meat often is considered to be a food more for men than for women. From a nutrient perspective, however, women have a much greater need for iron, a key nutrient in meat. |
| Consumer Link You Are What You Eat: Why Do Male Consumers Avoid Vegetarian Options? |
| Research Link Journal of Consumer Research, October 2012 |
| May 16, 2012 Consumption of fish and the long chain omega-3 fatty acids that fish contain, has been linked to a decreased risk of many health problems. A recent systematic review with a meta-analysis found a significantly reduced risk rectal cancer and a modest trend toward reduced risk of colon cancer with increased fish consumption. |
| Consumer Link Fish tied to lower colon cancer risk: study |
| Research Link American Journal of Medicine published online 18 April 2012. |
| May 15, 2012 Correcting specific nutrient inadequacies is known to significantly reduce chronic disease risk. In a recent study, a scientifically designed nutrition bar was shown to improve several biomarkers of chronic disease risk factors in 25 normal healthy adults in just two weeks. |
| Consumer Link New Nutrition Bar Improves Metabolic Biomarkers Linked to Cardiovascular Disease, Cognitive Decline, and Anti-Oxidant Defenses in Only Two Weeks |
| Research Link FASEB J. 2012 May 1. [Epub ahead of print] |
| May 14, 2012 Some popular natural products can have powerful effects in the body. This makes them potentially very risky when they are taken with other medications. Also, discontinuing the use of these products well before most any type of surgery is absolutely essential. |
| Consumer Link Risks of Mixing Drugs and Herbal Supplements: What Doctors and Patients Need to Know |
| Research Link Alternative and Complementary Therapies. April 2012, 18(2): 67-70. |
| May 13, 2012 Based on a study with a mouse model, a natural flavonol compound called rutin (quercetin-3-rutinoside) may prove to be the best way to prevent blood clot formation. The compound inhibits a specific enzyme that plays an important role in both platelet aggregation and the formation of fibrin in blood clotting. Human trials are needed to confirm efficacy in humans and to determine proper dosage. |
| Consumer Link Flavonoid Compound Found in Foods and Supplements May Prevent the Formation of Blood Clots, Study Suggests |
| Research Link J Clin Invest. doi:10.1172/JCI61228. |
| May 12, 2012 Legumes like soybeans, lentils, and chickpeas produce a class of naturally-occurring protease inhibitors called Bowman-Birk inhibitors that have potential health benefits. These interesting natural compounds are being studies for anti-carcinogenic and anti-inflammatory properties. |
| Consumer Link Soybeans Soaked in Warm Water Naturally Release Key Cancer-Fighting Substance |
| Research Link J Agric Food Chem. 2012 Mar 28;60(12):3135-43. |
| May 11, 2012 Proper function of the immune system depends on the body having an adequate supply of virtually all essential nutrients. Vitamin D appears to be playing an important supportive role in helping the immune system deal with viral infections. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin D May Protect Against Viral Infections During the Winter |
| Research Link J Leukoc Biol. 2012 May;91(5):829-38. Epub 2012 Feb 17. |
| May 10, 2012 Diallyl sulfide, a chemical found naturally in garlic, is proving to have substantial antimicrobial effects. It is likely to become a useful tool for food safety, but it does smell and taste like garlic. |
| Consumer Link Garlic Compound Fights Source of Food-Borne Illness Better Than Antibiotics |
| Research Link J. Antimicrob. Chemother., May 1, 2012. |
| May 9, 2012 Poorly controlled diabetes can lead to impaired brain function over time. New research with a mouse model for type 2 diabetes found that diabetic mice who consumed caffeine in their drinking water did not experience the usual brain changes and memory loss. The potential use of caffeine or similar chemicals in the management of human diabetes remains to be studied. |
| Consumer Link Caffeine Can Prevent Memory Loss in Diabetes |
| Research Link PLoS ONE, 2012; 7 (4): e21899 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0021899 |
| May 8, 2012 The headline in the consumer article below is almost good enough for the Tonight Show with Jay Leno. It is no surprise that the fitness of children has declined along with the elimination of physical education as a requirement in schools. |
| Consumer Link Students More Likely to Be Fit When Physical Education Is Mandatory |
| Research Link American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 2012; 42 (5): 452 DOI: |
| May 7, 2012 Many of our food preferences may be rooted in our genes. A recent Norwegian study reported that people with a specific gene variant were more likely to dislike the smell and taste of pork that contains a substance found naturally in male pigs. |
| Consumer Link Genetics may explain why some people hate meat, study says |
| Research Link PLoS ONE 7(5): e35259. |
| May 6, 2012 For some time, research has indicated that consistent physical activity provides long term health benefits. A new report emphasizes that the benefits may be somewhat like alcohol consumption. Mortality is higher in non-joggers and in those undertaking extreme levels of exercise than it is in moderate joggers. |
| Consumer Link Regular Jogging Shows Dramatic Increase in Life Expectancy |
| Research Link Eur J Epidemiol. 2012 Feb;27(2):91-9. |
| May 5, 2012 A greater intake of dietary omega-3 fatty acids may help to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. In a study of over 1000 people, those who consumed the most omega-3 fatty acids had lower blood levels of the beta-amyloid peptide that is known to accumulate in the brains of people with Alzheimer's disease. |
| Consumer Link Eating Fish, Chicken, Nuts May Lower Risk of Alzheimer's Disease |
| Research Link Neurology, 2012 DOI: 10.1212/WNL.0b013e318258f7c2 |
| May 4, 2012 A compound in red grapes called resveratrol is thought to be one of the beneficial components of red wine. New research indicates that resveratrol affects the expression of genes that may, in fact, slow some age-related changes that commonly occur in mitochondria. |
| Consumer Link Resveratrol: Study Resolves Controversy On Life-Extending Red Wine Ingredient, Restores Hope for Anti-Aging Pill |
| Research Link Cell Metabolism, 2012; 15 (5): 675 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2012.04.003 |
| May 3, 2012 A small study with 48 prostate cancer patients found that combining a low fat diet with 5 grams of fish oil per day reduced markers of cancer proliferation. Although this high fish oil dosage is possibly risky for the average person, additional research on its value for supportive treatment of cancer seems warranted. |
| Consumer Link Improving the Omega-3 Fatty Acid Ratio with EPA and DHA for Prostate Health |
| Research Link Cancer Prev Res (Phila). 2011 Dec;4(12):2062-71. Epub 2011 Oct 25. |
| May 2, 2012 Adding baby foods to the diet of infants between 4 and 6 months of age is designed to meet some key nutrient needs that become significant at this stage of life. Recent analysis of widely used commercial baby foods in the U.K. found that many of these products may be running short on nutrients. |
| Consumer Link Jars of Baby Food Very Low in Micro-Nutrients, UK Study Suggests |
| Research Link Food Chemistry, 2011; 128 (1): Pages 123–128 |
| May 1, 2012 Entertaining TV ads for alcoholic beverages target the adult population. However, according to new research, these ads may encourage underage drinking by teens as well. Underage drinkers were significantly more aware of ads for alcoholic beverages than those who did not drink. It is not clear whether the ad awareness or the drinking came first. |
| Consumer Link TV Alcohol Advertising May Play Role in Underage Drinking |
| Research Link Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. Author manuscript; available in PMC 2012 March 26. |
| April 30, 2012 Fish farming may help to relieve the human impact on wild fish populations of the fish that are being farmed. However, there is growing concern that some of the wild fish incorporated into aquaculture fish feeds may excessively impact some of the feed species. |
| Consumer Link Eight Species of Wild Fish Have Been Detected in Aquaculture Feed |
| Research Link Fisheries Research, 2012; 115-116: 115 DOI: 10.1016/j.fishres.2011.08.011 |
| April 29, 2012 When young men consumed watercress (85g or 2.5 cups of chopped watercress) before a workout, the workout produced significantly less damage to DNA and lipid components of cells. Like similar vegetables, watercress contains a variety of antioxidant substances that are the likely cause of this beneficial effect. |
| Consumer Link Leafy Greens Help Prevent Damage Caused by a Workout, Study Suggests |
| Research Link British Journal of Nutrition, 2012; : 1 DOI: 10.1017/S0007114512000992 |
| April 28, 2012 Discussions about organic vs conventional agriculture are usually strongly pro or con for one or the other. However, hybrid farming that combines the strengths of each approach may be the best way to maximize yields and support environmental sustainability. |
| Consumer Link Can Organic Food Feed the World? New Study Sheds Light On Debate Over Organic Vs. Conventional Agriculture |
| Research Link Nature, 2012; DOI: 10.1038/nature11069 |
| April 27, 2012 Obese women have an increased risk of developing the painful autoimmune disorder rheumatoid arthritis. If researchers can determine why this painful joint disease is linked with these factors, it could help to uncover the causes of rheumatoid arthritis. |
| Consumer Link Obesity Epidemic Fueling Rise in Rheumatoid Arthritis Among Women |
| Research Link Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken). 2012 Apr 18. [Epub ahead of print] |
| April 26, 2012 Aerobic exercise appears to benefit cardiovascular health and new research indicates that strength training twice a week can enhance brain function in older people. Including both types of exercise in the weekly routine appears to be ideal for aging healthfully. |
| Consumer Link Strength Training May Give Boost to Seniors' Brains |
| Research Link Neurobiol Aging. 2011 Jul 6. [Epub ahead of print] |
| April 25, 2012 A large California study found that mothers of children with autism were less likely to report taking prenatal vitamins during the 3 months before pregnancy or the first month of pregnancy. This supports other research findings that malnutrition even before a woman knows she is pregnant can adversely affect development. |
| Consumer Link Patterns: Prenatal Vitamins May Ward Off Autism |
| Research Link Epidemiology. 2011 Jul;22(4):476-85. |
| April 24, 2012 Studies with mice have shown that compounds called amorfrutins extracted from licorice root are very beneficial in treating type 2 diabetes. However, the concentration of these substances in licorice tea and candy is far too low to have a beneficial effect. Human clinical trials are needed to assess the possible use of preparations of amorfrutins in the treatment and prevention of diabetes. |
| Consumer Link Liquorice Root Found to Contain Anti-Diabetic Substance |
| Research Link Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 2012; DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1116971109 |
| April 23, 2012 Having a low glycemic index does not necessarily mean that a food is "healthy." However, when the overall diet is composed primarily of lower glycemic index foods, it can improve blood glucose management in people with type 2 diabetes. |
| Consumer Link Nutrition tip: Understanding the glycemic index |
| Research Link JAMA. 2008 Dec 17;300(23):2742-53. |
| April 22, 2012 New research indicates that the evolutionary success of the human race and development of a large brain was closely related to the consumption of meat. At our current stage of evolution, the challenge has changed to determining how much meat is appropriate in the contemporary human diet. |
| Consumer Link Meat Eating Behind Evolutionary Success of Humankind, Global Population Spread, Study Suggests |
| Research Link PLoS ONE, 2012; 7 (4): e32452 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0032452 |
| April 21, 2012 E. coli bacteria in drinking water can be greatly reduced by exposing clear plastic bottles of water to direct sunlight for at least 6 hours. Adding a twist of lime to the water reduced the needed sun exposure time to 30 minutes. This method, however, did not significantly reduce the levels of a murine norovirus. |
| Consumer Link Sunlight Plus Lime Juice Makes Drinking Water Safer |
| Research Link Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2012 Apr;86(4):566-72. |
| April 20, 2012 The amount of salt in fast foods can vary by country. Most major fast food chains are gradually reducing the amount of salt in their foods. Consequently, the amount of salt in fast foods can change over time within a country. |
| Consumer Link Fast-food salt content varies by country: study |
| Research Link CMAJ April 16, 2012 First published April 16, 2012, doi: 10.1503/cmaj.111895 |
| April 19, 2012 Although large trials with vitamin E supplementation have not demonstrated consistent benefits, there is clear evidence that people with a specific genotype for a protein called haptoglobin do experience a significant cardiovascular disease risk reduction when they take supplemental vitamin E. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin E Shouldn’t be a Forgotten Micronutrient |
| Research Link Diabetes Care November 2004 vol. 27 no. 11 2767 |
| April 18, 2012 The recommendation to include omega-3 fatty acids in the diet should emphasize that there are 3 major omega-3 fatty acids in foods and they don't all provide the same benefits. Some plant oils are high in alpha-linolenic acid, an 18-carbon omega-3 fatty acid. However, the major health benefits seem to come primarily from the two longer omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, that are found in fish and some algae oils. |
| Consumer Link Don’t Lump all Omega-3 Fatty Acids Together |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2011 Oct;94(4):1097-103. Epub 2011 Aug 24. |
| April 17, 2012 Meeting essential nutrient needs is required for optimal health. Evidence is growing that low intake of some key B vitamins may increase the risk of cancer. |
| Consumer Link Just Cannot Say Enough about Importance of B Vitamins |
| Research Link Br J Nutr. 2011 Sep;106(6):936-43. Epub 2011 May 16. |
| April 16, 2012 More is not always better when it comes to athletic training. The best training programs balance the stress of exercise with adequate rest time for recovery from the workout stress. The body cannot adapt and strengthen without proper recovery. |
| Consumer Link Nearly 30 Percent of All College Athlete Injuries a Result of 'Overuse' |
| Research Link Journal of Athletic Training, Vol. 47, Number 2, March/April 2012 , pp. 198-204(7) |
| April 15, 2012 As body weight goes up, vitamin D status tends to go down. Why this occurs is not currently understood. Add darker skin color to obesity and it further increases the risk of vitamin D deficiency. |
| Consumer Link Ethnic Differences in Vitamin D Deficiency Linked to Childhood Obesity |
| Research Link Metabolism. 2008 Feb;57(2):183-91. |
| April 14, 2012 The painful illness brucellosis is caused by a bacterium that can pass between pigs and humans. Although domestic pigs no longer harbor this disease, hunting of feral pigs can expose people to the bacteria. To avoid the disease, wear gloves when butchering feral pigs and cook the meat to an internal temperature of at least 160 degrees F (71 C). |
| Consumer Link Feral Pigs Can Carry Nasty Bacteria That Can Be Transmitted to People |
| Research Link J Wildl Dis. 2011 Apr;47(2):338-43. |
| April 13, 2012 Plant fungal infections have now outstripped bacterial and viral diseases. World hunger could be significantly decreased by halting the spread of fungal diseases in the world's five most important crops: rice, wheat, maize, potatoes and soybeans. Supporting basic agricultural research is important to both nutrition and sustainability. |
| Consumer Link Tackle Fungal Forces to Save Crops, Forests and Endangered Animals, Say Scientists |
| Research Link Nature, 2012; 484 (7393): 186 DOI: 10.1038/nature10947 |
| April 12, 2012 Based on military research, low blood levels of the fish oil types of fatty acids is associated with a greater risk of suicide. Supplementing soldiers with these fatty acids was shown to achieve substantial reduction in markers of suicidal behavior and to improve overall well-being. |
| Consumer Link Omega 3 Fatty Acids May Be a Link in the Armor of Military Personnel Post-Deployment |
| Research Link Br J Psychiatry. 2007 Feb;190:118-22. |
| April 11, 2012 Food choices and limited physical activity are likely the major contributors to the increasing rate of obesity in childhood. However, a major genetic component is gradually becoming apparent as genetics researchers identify new gene variants linked to obesity. |
| Consumer Link Genes Identified in Common Childhood Obesity |
| Research Link Nature Genetics, 2012; DOI: 10.1038/ng.2247 |
| April 10, 2012 Guidelines about how to eat are worthless if they do not first meet the goal of providing adequate amounts of all essential nutrients. Basing recommendations primarily on statistical associations with chronic disease risks is fraught with potential problems. |
| Consumer Link Chocolate & Red Meat Can Be Bad for Your Science: Why Many Nutrition Studies Are All Wrong |
| Research Link Nutrition. 2010 Oct;26(10):915-24. |
| April 9, 2012 The joint pain experienced by people with rheumatoid arthritis can lead to decreased physical activity. This, in turn, tends to result in loss of muscle mass and gain in body fat. For managing the arthritic condition and promoting good health, it is important to find tolerable ways to stay physically active. |
| Consumer Link Nutritional Implications of Rheumatoid Arthritis |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2002 Oct;76(4):774-9. |
| April 8, 2012 According to a review of current research, providing vitamin and mineral supplementation to critically ill patients is frequently beneficial. The article does stress, however, that the type of critical illness must be considered before treating with supplementation. |
| Consumer Link Micronutrients Reduce Nutritional Risk in the Critically Ill |
| Research Link Nutrition 2011;27:745-758 |
| April 7, 2012 Two carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin, are especially beneficial for retinal health. They are found in many fruits and vegetables. Some dietary supplements provide these two compounds in the free form which makes them much better absorbed than they are from their natural sources. |
| Consumer Link Better Lutein Absorption with Free Lutein Source |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 2010 Dec;29(6):575-85. |
| April 6, 2012 More research supports the link between an energy-dense diet and greater body weight. When there are more calories in each bite of food, it is much easier to consume excess calories. Foods with the greatest energy density are primarily those high in fat and/or sugar. |
| Consumer Link Higher Energy Density Diets Linked To Higher Body Weight |
| Research Link J Acad Nutr Diet. 05 April 2012 [ePub ahead of print] |
| April 5, 2012 Well designed vegetarian diets can be healthful. However, avoidance of specific food groups does increase the risk of nutritional inadequacy. For example, in many types of vegetarian eating patterns, iron can be low and/or in forms that are poorly absorbed. |
| Consumer Link Eating Vegetarian is Healthy, But Mind the Micronutrients! |
| Research Link J Nutr. 1950 Jul;41(3):433-46. |
| April 4, 2012 Body mass index (BMI) is a simple index of weight for height. It is useful as a rough estimate of fatness in the statistical analysis of large groups of people. However, research continues to indicate that BMI is not a good way to evaluate an individual's fatness. |
| Consumer Link 'Skinny fat' label shows the vagaries of obesity |
| Research Link PLoS ONE 7(4): e33308. |
| April 3, 2012 A new report summarizing biochemical indicators of the nutritional status of the U.S. population identifies iodine, iron and vitamin D as the most commonly deficient nutrients. |
| Consumer Link Some Americans Not Getting Essential Nutrients |
| Research Link Second National Report on Biochemical Indicators of Diet and Nutrition in the U.S. Population |
| April 2, 2012 Studies show that choline deficiency in developing animals compromises brain function for the life of the animal. The same is likely true for people. Eggs and meat are the richest food sources of choline. |
| Consumer Link Extreme devotion to fad diets can sap key nutrients |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 2000 Oct;19(5 Suppl):528S-531S. |
| April 1, 2012 It is estimated nine out of 10 Americans do not obtain an adequate amount of vitamin E in the food they consume. Although the intake is not low enough to cause frank signs of deficiency, it is difficult to know how chronic inadequate intake will affect long term health. |
| Consumer Link Increase Vitamin E Intake when following Diet |
| Research Link What We Eat in America, NHANES 2001-2002. Usual Nutrient Intakes from Food Compared to Dietary Reference Intakes. |
| March 31, 2012 Children with autism generally have high blood levels of homocysteine which is linked with inflammation and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Although B-vitamin supplementation lowers homocysteine in autistic children, the supplement is unlikely to affect behavior. |
| Consumer Link Vitamins – Can They Help with Autism Symptoms? |
| Research Link Nutr Res. 2011 Apr;31(4):318-21. |
| March 30, 2012 Growing knowledge about our genetic differences should eventually lead to gene-based personalized nutrition recommendations. New research on genetic variations in an enzyme associated with folic acid provides insight on how genetic differences can affect nutrient need. |
| Consumer Link Genetic Polymorphisms: What Color are Your Eyes? |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2011 Jun;93(6):1365-72. Epub 2011 Apr 20. |
| March 29, 2012 Many beneficial compounds in foods and spices are chemically unstable, making them difficult to add to supplements or fortified foods in a form that does not readily break down. A new technique protects these molecules by surrounding them with a special type of carbohydrate that comes from seaweed. |
| Consumer Link Pass the lycopene: Scientist can protect supplements inside food |
| Research Link Food Funct. 2012 Mar 15. [Epub ahead of print] |
| March 28, 2012 The cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is not known. However, a combined analysis of five large studies indicated that long-term vitamin E supplement use is associated with a reduced rate of ALS. Further study on the role of antioxidants in ALS may help to understand the cause of the condition. |
| Consumer Link New Data Supporting Vitamin E Supplementation |
| Research Link Am J Epidemiol. 2011 Mar 15;173(6):595-602. |
| March 27, 2012 Using a human cell culture technique, researchers found that some antioxidants such as resveratrol and genistein can damage DNA. This may prove to be another example of the "dose making the poison" since moderate intake of these antioxidants from foods seems to protect DNA from damage. |
| Consumer Link High-Throughput Screening Finds Surprising Properties for Antioxidants: Some Compounds Can Damage DNA, but May Treat Cancer |
| Research Link PNAS, 2012; DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1114278109 |
| March 26, 2012 Gatorade for athletes and Pedialyte for infants and children are both designed to provide water, carbohydrate, and electrolytes. Although both beverages are essentially properly diluted Kool-Aid with a pinch of salt (sodium and potassium), Gatorade provides more carbohydrate to meet the energy demands of exercise. Pedialyte has a higher electrolyte content with a primary focus on hydration of sedentary infants and children. |
| Consumer Link Athletes Go Gaga For Pedialyte |
| Research Link JPEN J Parenter Enteral Nutr. 2006 Sep-Oct;30(5):433-9. |
| March 25, 2012 Early exposure to an appropriate combination of beneficial bacteria appears to be very important for optimal health. Although good hygiene is important for avoiding pathogenic bacteria, adequate exposure to the "good guys" may help to prevent some immune-mediated conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease and asthma. |
| Consumer Link Bacteria Help Body Beef Up Immunity, Study Says |
| Research Link Science 2012 Mar 22. [Epub ahead of print] |
| March 24, 2012 The runner's high experienced by endurance athletes may have evolved due to the mobility needed for our ancestors to obtain food in the wild. Maintaining the level of fitness needed to induce this runner's high could help contemporary humans maintain a healthy weight and allow them to eat enough food to obtain adequate amounts of all essential nutrients. |
| Consumer Link Runner's High Motivated the Evolution of Exercise, Research Suggests |
| Research Link J. Exp. Biol. 215, 1331-1336. |
| March 23, 2012 A novel experiment indicated that people take smaller bites of food when the aroma of the food is greater. It is possible that this could be used to help reduce food intake. |
| Consumer Link How the Smell of Food Affects How Much You Eat |
| Research Link Flavour, 2012, 1:3 |
| March 22, 2012 There is growing evidence that sun exposure does not produce adequate amounts of vitamin D for many people. Food and supplemental sources of the vitamin appear to be the best option. |
| Consumer Link Sun Exposure Not Enough to Correct Vitamin D Deficiency |
| Research Link J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2007 Jun;92(6):2130-5. |
| March 21, 2012 There is more good news for coffee drinkers. A European study of over 42,000 participants indicated that coffee consumption does not increase the risk of chronic disease, but it may be linked to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. |
| Consumer Link Coffee poses no threat to hearts, may reduce diabetes risk: EPIC data |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2012 Feb 15. [Epub ahead of print] |
| March 20, 2012 Although a recent review of research linked white rice consumption to an increased risk of diabetes, it is not possible to conclude from this study that eating white rice is a cause of diabetes. The results do support the need for additional research on the role of overall carbohydrate intake in the development of diabetes. |
| Consumer Link Take this with a whole grain of rice |
| Research Link BMJ. 2012 Mar 15;344:e1454. |
| March 19, 2012 A dietary supplement of genistein, a phytoestrogen compound found in soybeans, was found to significantly reduce menopause-related hot flashes in women. The daily amount of genistein taken was 30 milligrams. About ten ounces of tofu contains this amount of genistein. |
| Consumer Link Trying to Manage Hot Flashes? 19 Jan 2011 |
| Research Link Maturitas. 2011 Feb;68(2):189-96. Epub 2010 Dec 15. |
| March 18, 2012 Meeting the need for the B vitamin biotin is proving to be especially important for pregnant women and people with diabetes. Rich food sources of biotin include eggs, liver (especially chicken liver), peanuts, and meat, fish, and poultry in general. |
| Consumer Link Biotin Status: Easy to Measure and Often Marginal 24 Jan 2011 |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2011 Mar;141(3):353-8. Epub 2011 Jan 19. |
| March 17, 2012 It is not unusual for the calorie intake of older people to drop too low. This leads to the loss of both muscle and bone. Consequently, snacking can be important for older adults to consume enough calories. |
| Consumer Link Snacking Can Benefit Older Adults |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2007 May;107(5):800-6. |
| March 16, 2012 A study of 70 postmenopausal women found that a daily supplement of bone-related nutrients (800 IU vitamin D, 150 ?g vitamin K, 1 g omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA, 30 mg genistein, and 500 mg calcium) increased bone mineral density within a 6 month period. |
| Consumer Link Bone Health Micronutrient Mix Increases Bone Mineral Density in Older Women |
| Research Link Eur J Nutr. 2012 Feb 3. [Epub ahead of print] |
| March 15, 2012 The bacterium Helicobacter pylori lives in the lining of the stomach of some people and is considered to be a cause of stomach ulcers. A new study found that people who harbor the bacteria have compromised control of blood glucose. |
| Consumer Link H. Pylori Bacteria Linked to Blood Sugar Control in Adult Type II Diabetes |
| Research Link J Infect Dis, 2012/03/12 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jis106 |
| March 14, 2012 A study of 99 men found that high saturated fatty acid intake was associated with lower sperm quality. In contrast, a higher intake of omega-3 fatty acids predicted higher sperm quality. |
| Consumer Link Fatty Diets May Be Associated With Reduced Semen Quality |
| Research Link Hum Reprod. 2011; March 13 [Epub ahead of print] |
| March 13, 2012 If you make it to your mid 80s, carrying some extra weight may be in your favor. A recent study found that those in this age group who were obese had a slightly lower risk of death than their underweight or normal-weight peers. |
| Consumer Link Could Fat Be Your Friend Over Age 85? |
| Research Link J Aging Res. 2011;Article ID 765071. |
| March 12, 2012 Like other parts of the body, the brain is subject to damage by oxidation reactions. Berries are among the wide variety of foods that provide protective phytochemicals that protect brain cells from this type of damage. |
| Consumer Link Eating Berries Benefits the Brain |
| Research Link J Agric Food Chem. 2012 Feb 3. [Epub ahead of print] |
| March 11, 2012 Brain scans (MRI) of people following six days of reduced sleep (4 hours per night) showed increased neuronal activity in brain reward centers when exposed to food stimuli. This indicates that reduced sleep may lead to a tendency to overeat. |
| Consumer Link Sleep Restriction Activates Brain Centres That Regulate Appetite |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2012 Feb 22. [Epub ahead of print] |
| March 10, 2012 In a study of more than 900 Austrian women in a nursing home, those with low vitamin D status at the start of the study were much more likely to die during the 27 months of data collection. This study strongly indicates that vitamin D deficient people should be treated for this essential nutrient deficiency. |
| Consumer Link Low Vitamin D Hikes Death Risk in Elderly |
| Research Link J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2012 Feb 8. [Epub ahead of print] |
| March 9, 2012 You can burn five times as many calories walking up stairs than you do riding the elevator. In addition, taking the stairs has been found to save time. One study in a hospital found that when workers used the stairs, it saved them about 15 minutes each workday. |
| Consumer Link Stairs vs. Elevators |
| Research Link CMAJ. 2011 Dec 13;183(18):E1353-5. |
| March 8, 2012 Vegetable intake can be augmented by adding vegetables to recipes to make foods like zucchini chocolate chip bread and broccoli gingerbread spice cake. Although this can increase vegetable intake, it does little to help children learn to appreciate the tastes and textures of vegetables. |
| Consumer Link Should We Play Hide-And-Go-Seek With Our Children's Vegetables? |
| Research Link J Nutr Educ Behav. 2012 Mar;44(2):178-82. Epub 2011 Jan 21. |
| March 7, 2012 Exercise triggers beneficial changes in muscles through altered gene expression. A recent study presented evidence that caffeine can stimulate similar changes in factors that control muscle cell gene expression. But, don't forgo the exercise for a cup of Joe. There is no evidence that the effects of exercise and caffeine are identical. |
| Consumer Link Exercise and Caffeine Change Your DNA in the Same Way, Study Suggests |
| Research Link Cell Metabolism, 2012;3:405-411. |
| March 6, 2012 Since some types of fish accumulate mercury, consuming fish for heart health has been questioned by some. However, research on fish consumption and omega-3 fatty acids supports the benefits of consuming a variety of fish about twice a week. Low mercury alternatives to eating fish include taking fish and algae oil supplements. |
| Consumer Link Cardiovascular Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2011:93 (1); 27-36. |
| March 5, 2012 The vitamin content of fresh fruits and vegetables can decline during transport, storage, and display in the store. Depending on the food, frozen and canned products often contain more vitamins than their fresh forms. |
| Consumer Link Is fresh food best? The answer may surprise you |
| Research Link Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, Volume 87, Issue 7, May 2007, Pages: 1185–1196, |
| March 4, 2012 With the glow of youth still present in the young adult years, it is difficult for most people to realize that dietary habits and lifestyle during the twenties can set the stage for the occurrence of health problems later in life. New research supports the value of establishing healthful habits early in life. Got Nutrients? |
| Consumer Link Lifestyle Choices Made in Your 20s Can Impact Your Heart Health in Your 40s |
| Research Link Circulation. 2012 Feb 28;125(8):996-1004. |
| March 3, 2012 The benefits of non-essential, but beneficial food components can be subtle. However, when the epicatechin in dark chocolate was fed to those with impaired muscle function, the benefit was obvious and measurable. |
| Consumer Link Cocoa May Enhance Skeletal Muscle Function |
| Research Link Clin Transl Sci. 2012 Feb;5(1):43-7. |
| March 2, 2012 Adding prebiotic components to infant formula helped to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the lower intestine of infants. This made the colonic bacteria of these infants more similar to that of breastfed infants. |
| Consumer Link New Infant Formula Ingredients Boost Babies' Immunity by Feeding Their Gut Bacteria |
| Research Link JPEN J Parenter Enteral Nutr. 2012 Jan;36(1 Suppl):95S-105S. |
| March 1, 2012 There's new evidence in support of consuming cruciferous vegetables (cabbage family) to help prevent cancer. A key compound called sulforaphane works at the level of gene expression in a prostate cancer model in a way that protects against cancer development. |
| Consumer Link Eat Your Broccoli: Another Mechanism Discovered by Which Sulforaphane Prevents Cancer |
| Research Link Clin Epigenetics. 2011; 3(1): 3. |
| February 29, 2012 A new Policy Statement from The American Academy of Pediatrics encourages exclusive breastfeeding of healthy full-term infants for the first 6 months of life. In addition, they recommend vitamin D supplementation of breastfed infants starting at birth, supplementation with iron before 6 months of age as needed, and introduction of foods rich in iron and zinc at about 6 months of age. |
| Consumer Link Exclusive Breast-Feeding Best for Baby: Experts |
| Research Link Pediatrics February 27, 2012. [ePub Ahead of Print] |
| February 28, 2012 Since its discovery, vitamin D has been known to benefit bone health. Research during the past decade has identified many other vitamin D health benefits including enhanced immune function and reduced inflammation. |
| Consumer Link How Vitamin D Inhibits Inflammation |
| Research Link J Immunol. 2012 Mar 1;188(5):2127-35. Epub 2012 Feb 1. |
| February 27, 2012 Another good reason to include green leafy vegetables, nuts, beans and whole grains in your diet is to meet your needs for the mineral magnesium. A new meta-analysis review of research found that people are less likely to have a stroke if their diet provides plenty of magnesium. |
| Consumer Link Magnesium-rich diet tied to lower stroke risk |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2012 Feb;95(2):362-6. |
| February 26, 2012 Be sure to include citrus fruits among the fruits in your diet. Specific flavanone compounds present naturally in citrus fruits are associated with a reduced risk of stroke. |
| Consumer Link Eating Citrus Fruit May Lower Women's Stroke Risk |
| Research Link Stroke, February 23 2012. |
| February 25, 2012 People who have impaired kidney function should not consume star fruit. The fruit's high oxalic acid levels are not a problem for those of us with normal kidney function. However, the consumption of one star fruit reportedly killed a person who had compromised kidney function. |
| Consumer Link Oxalic acid in star fruit can kill kidney patients |
| Research Link Intensive Care Med. 2009 Aug;35(8):1459-63. |
| February 23, 2012 Although light to moderate alcohol consumption may have some health benefits, excessive consumption comes with increased health risks. A recent study found that college students significantly underestimate the amounts of alcoholic beverages they consume. |
| Consumer Link Many Young People Don't Know What Constitutes Sensible Alcohol Consumption |
| Research Link Drug Alcohol Rev. 2011 Nov 3. [Epub ahead of print] |
| February 22, 2012 A recent extensive analysis of studies evaluating the theoretical weight gain effect of fructose indicates that fructose may be unfairly judged. This research showed that in controlled situations, it is the extra calorie consumption, rather than the fructose itself, that is the primary contributor to obesity. |
| Consumer Link Is Fructose Being Blamed Unfairly for Obesity Epidemic? |
| Research Link Annals of Internal Medicine, 2012; 156 (4): 291-304 |
| February 21, 2012 The prevalence of asthma has increased in the U.S. over the past few decades. There may be many reasons for this. One possible factor that is gaining scientific support is the increased use of acetaminophen causing reduced levels of glutathione (an antioxidant the body produces) in the lungs. |
| Consumer Link Does Tylenol Worsen Asthma For Kids? |
| Research Link Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2011 Jan 15;183(2):171-8. |
| February 20, 2012 Researchers are identifying specific genetic variants as predictors of how specific types of exercise programs may benefit some individuals. However, coming up with an exercise prescription based on genetics should also consider things like an individual's environment, social and cultural background, beliefs, psychology, personal interests, etc. |
| Consumer Link Personalizing Exercise Protocols Based on Genetics? |
| Research Link Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2012 Feb 9. [Epub ahead of print] |
| February 19, 2012 Meeting the body's essential nutrient needs requires consuming enough of the right types of foods. When food intake declines, due to aging or weight loss efforts, the risk of developing one or more nutrient deficiencies increases. |
| Consumer Link Should Recommendations Focus on Eating Less or More? |
| Research Link Mech Ageing Dev. 2010 Jul-Aug;131(7-8):473-9. |
| February 18, 2012 Rice grains are known to take up arsenic present in soil. Consequently, rice can be a significant source of this toxic mineral. Samples of a popular natural sweetener called organic brown rice syrup were found to have high levels of arsenic. |
| Consumer Link Organic Food Sweetener May Be a Hidden Source of Dietary Arsenic |
| Research Link Environ Health Perspect. 2012 Feb. [Epub ahead of print] |
| February 17, 2012 Moderate alcohol consumption has been linked with various health benefits. However, the study of a mouse model for alcoholism found that genetic differences in brain chemistry made some mice more susceptible to brain-damaging effects of alcohol. |
| Consumer Link Drinking Alcohol Shrinks Critical Brain Regions in Genetically Vulnerable Mice |
| Research Link Alcohol Clin Exp Res. 2011 Oct 21. [Epub ahead of print] |
| February 16, 2012 Vitamin B12 deficiency is most common in vegans, vegetarians, and older people. However, three autistic children with vision problems were recently diagnosed with B12 deficiency that was caused by restrictive eating habits. Treatment with B12 corrected the vision problems. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin B12: Seeing is Believing |
| Research Link Pediatrics 2010;126:e967–e970 |
| February 15, 2012 Soybean products are major components of the diets of various Asian populations that have a low risk of breast cancer. However, recent research does not support that consuming soy components (isoflavone supplements) will reduce breast cancer risk in adult women. |
| Consumer Link Soy supplements don’t prevent and may link to an increase in breast cancer |
| Research Link Cancer Prev Res (Phila). 2012 Feb;5(2):309-19. |
| February 14, 2012 There is a tendency to think of scurvy as a disease of historical interest. However, a recent study in Canada found that about 20 percent of emergency patients had blood levels of vitamin C diagnostic of scurvy. Treating these patients with vitamin C supplements significantly improved their moods within 10 days. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin C Status Affects Mood |
| Research Link Linus Pauling Institute - Micronutrient Research for Optimum Health |
| February 13, 2012 Tomatoes are rich in a beneficial compound called lycopene. There is growing evidence that this red colored molecule has valuable cancer prevention properties. Tomato sauces are especially high in lycopene. |
| Consumer Link Tomato Nutrient May Intercept Cancer Growth |
| Research Link Br J Nutr. 2011 Dec 6:1-9. |
| February 12, 2012 It's great to feel good about eating something you really like. But, even the good stuff should be consumed in moderation. Chocolate is an excellent example. In moderation, it can be a good source of beneficial flavanols, but it doesn't take much chocolate to get a lot of calories. |
| Consumer Link Is Chocolate Good for Your Heart? |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2012 Feb 1. [Epub ahead of print] |
| February 11, 2012 Nutritionists emphasize the value of eating a balanced variety of various types of foods to meet the body's need for all essential nutrients. When foods are limited in variety or amount, meeting nutrient needs may be impossible without the appropriate use of fortified foods or a vitamin/mineral dietary supplement. |
| Consumer Link Are You Getting All the Essential Nutrients? |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2010 Oct;140(10):1879-86. Epub 2010 Aug 11. |
| February 10, 2012 Legumes like soybeans contain iron in a form called ferritin. This is the form that the human body uses to store iron. New research indicates that legume ferritin is reasonably well absorbed by the human intestine. However, it is not known how well this form of iron will improve the iron status of an iron deficient individual. |
| Consumer Link Novel Iron Source: Newly Identified Iron Absorption Mechanism |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2012 Jan 18. [Epub ahead of print] |
| February 9, 2012 As people get older, their calorie needs generally decline. Consequently, total food intake typically drops to match lower energy needs and most nutrients are consumed in reduced amounts. When the intake of vitamins B-6 and B-12 decline, it increases the risk of developing depression. |
| Consumer Link B Vitamins Associated with Depressive Symptoms |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2010 Aug;92(2):330-5. |
| February 8, 2012 Burn calories, not electricity. Take the stairs. Researchers found that signs with messages like this placed strategically in buildings could increase use of the stairs by over 30 percent. |
| Consumer Link Posting simple signs might get people to take the stairs more often |
| Research Link Am J Prev Med. 2012 Feb;42(2):136-41. |
| February 7, 2012 Want some fiber in your snack food? Try some popcorn. Archeological research indicates that ancient Peruvians were the first people to take advantage of this tasty food. |
| Consumer Link Ancient Popcorn Discovered in Peru |
| Research Link PNAS January 31, 2012 vol. 109 no. 5 1755-1759 |
| February 6, 2012 The effect of vitamin and mineral supplements on the risk of chronic disease is a controversial topic. A recent study using rats found that supplemental vitamins and minerals greatly reduced colon cancer. More research is needed to determine if these results will also apply to humans. |
| Consumer Link Regular Use of Vitamin and Mineral Supplements Could Reduce the Risk of Colon Cancer, Study Suggests |
| Research Link Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology, 2012, 90:(1) 45-54, 10.1139/y11-100 |
| February 5, 2012 New data from the National Center for Health Statistics, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate that the prevalence of obesity in the U.S. leveled off during 2009 and 2010. Perhaps we are getting the messages to get moving and to eat a more moderate diet. |
| Consumer Link Healthy Aging: Nutrients, Exercise, Quality of Life |
| Research Link JAMA. 2012 Feb 1;307(5):483-90. |
| February 4, 2012 The causes of Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia that commonly occur with aging are poorly understood. A study of over 5000 older people found that higher intake of foods rich in vitamin E modestly reduced the long-term risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin E Supplementation Benefits Memory Function |
| Research Link Arch Neurol. 2010;67(7):819-825. doi:10.1001/archneurol.2010.144 |
| February 3, 2012 Metformin is a common drug that helps to normalize blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes. Recent research indicates that metformin can increase the need for vitamin B12. A modest supplement of the vitamin should be more than enough to meet the increased need. |
| Consumer Link Intersection of Diabetes Mellitus, Metformin and Vitamin B12 |
| Research Link Diabetes Care. 2012 Feb;35(2):327-33. |
| February 2, 2012 Tomato sauce, tomato paste, and catsup are concentrated forms of the tomato. Research links tomato product consumption with reduced risk factors for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. |
| Consumer Link Did you Consume Enough Tomato Concentrate Today? |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2012 Feb;142(2):326-33. |
| February 1, 2012 New research indicates that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil during pregnancy may help to reduce certain types of allergies in infants. |
| Consumer Link Looking to Reduce Childhood Allergies? Omega-3 PUFA During Pregnancy Could Help |
| Research Link BMJ 2012;344:e184 |
| January 31, 2012 There are many potential causes of high blood pressure. For about ten percent of the population with a common gene variant, increased intake of vitamin B-2 (riboflavin) may be the ticket to normal blood pressure. |
| Consumer Link Are You Part of the 10 Percent Who Needs More Riboflavin for Healthy Blood Pressure? |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2012 Jan 25. [Epub ahead of print] |
| January 30, 2012 Age-related macular degeneration (in the retina of the eye) is a common cause of vision loss in older people. Several nutrients are thought to be important for maintaining retinal health. New research adds vitamin D to that list. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin D Could Help Combat The Effects Of Aging In Eyes |
| Research Link Neurobiol Aging. 2012 Jan 2. [Epub ahead of print] |
| January 29, 2012 Lack of physical activity is commonly associated with weight gain. This may not be due only to low energy expenditure and excess eating. New research on fat cells indicates that the type of mechanical strain placed on fat cells while sitting and lying can accelerate the conversion of preadipocytes (fat cell precursors) into fat cells. |
| Consumer Link Couch potatoes gain weight without eating |
| Research Link Am J Physiol Cell Physiol |
| January 28, 2012 The term "balanced diet" often is used to describe a combination of foods that meets essential nutrient needs. Consuming a diet with plenty of variety increases the odds of obtaining adequate amounts of all nutrients. Recent research shows that this concept runs throughout the animal kingdom. Even beetles select a combinations of foods that provides optimal nutrient intake. |
| Consumer Link Even beetles plump for a balanced diet, study shows |
| Research Link Proc Biol Sci. 2012 Jan 11. [Epub ahead of print] |
| January 27, 2012 Increased awareness of the importance of vitamin D, has greatly increased the use of blood tests to assess vitamin D status. New standards are being developed to increase the consistency of these blood test results. |
| Consumer Link New Standard for Vitamin D Testing to Ensure Accurate Test Results |
| Research Link Anal Chem. 2012 Jan 17;84(2):956-62. |
| January 26, 2012 New research shows that methionine, an essential nutrient for humans, may now be able to be used as a safe and effective insecticide against caterpillars that threaten the citrus industry. This is an example of the unique roles that nutrients have in various species. |
| Consumer Link 'Green' Pesticide Effective Against Citrus Pests |
| Research Link J Economic Entomology, 2011; 104 (6): 1986. |
| January 25, 2012 Many Americans consume diets that are low in magnesium. Although low magnesium intake generally causes no noticeable symptoms in the short-run, the risk for stroke and various chronic diseases increases. Magnesium-rich foods include green leafy vegetables, beans, nuts, and whole-grain cereals. |
| Consumer Link Magnesium-Rich Foods May Lower Stroke Risk |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2012 Feb;95(2):362-6. |
| January 24, 2012 For young athletes, the combined energy needs for their workouts and growth can add up to a substantial need for calories. Good performance and normal development require adequate calorie intake. |
| Consumer Link Are Nutrition Needs the Same for All Young Athletes? |
| Research Link Pediatr Exerc Sci. 2011 May;23(2):261-9. |
| January 23, 2012 Several nutrient deficiencies are known to adversely affect brain and neurological development. A recent study found that low iron status in teenagers had an impact on the nerve structure of their brains that persisted into the early adult years. |
| Consumer Link Kids’ nutritional deficits might affect brain health |
| Research Link Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2012 Jan 9. [Epub ahead of print] |
| January 22, 2012 Exclusively breastfed infants who have little or no sun exposure are at high risk for vitamin D deficiency. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that these infants be given 400 IU of supplemental vitamin D per day. |
| Consumer Link Another rickets tragedy |
| Research Link J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2011 Sep;96(9):2681-3. |
| January 21, 2012 The message is clear that diets high in trans fatty acids are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. However, some natural trans fats such as those found in milk products may provide positive health effects. Not all trans fatty acids are created equal. |
| Consumer Link Expert Calls for Change in Trans Fat Labelling |
| Research Link Adv Nutr 2011 vol. 2: 332-354, |
| January 20, 2012 Maintaining normal hydration in the body is one of the most basic aspects of good nutrition. Chronically low water intake has even been linked to increased risk of diabetes. |
| Consumer Link Really? The Claim: Drinking Water Can Help Lower the Risk of Diabetes. |
| Research Link Diabetes Care. 2011 Dec;34(12):2551-4. |
| January 19, 2012 Inadequate vitamin K intake increases the risk of both osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Cooked dark green vegetables are the richest dietary sources of vitamin K. Multivitamin supplements often do not include vitamin K. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin K helps bones, brain and eyes |
| Research Link Menopause Int. 2011 Mar;17(1):19-23. |
| January 18, 2012 Some common foods with new natural colors can mean good nutrition. For example, unlike the classic white colored version, orange cauliflower, is a good source of the vitamin A precursor, beta carotene. |
| Consumer Link Understanding Orange Cauliflower May Lead To More Nutritious Crops |
| Research Link Biotechnol Annu Rev. 2008;14:171-90. |
| January 17, 2012 Even mild dehydration can affect cardiovascular function and blood concentration. Women in a state of mild dehydration experienced measurable mood changes, increased perception of task difficulty, lower concentration, and headache symptoms. |
| Consumer Link How dehydration affects women's mood |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2011 Dec 21. [Epub ahead of print] |
| January 16, 2012 Irisin is a newly discovered hormone that increases the ability of fat cells to expend energy. Research now shows that exercise can increase blood levels of irisin and potentially promote weight loss. |
| Consumer Link A new hormone revs up the body's fat-burning engine |
| Research Link Nature. 2012 Jan 11. [Epub ahead of print] |
| January 15, 2012 It often is reported that people with less education and lower incomes consume less fruits and vegetables than those with more education and higher incomes. Some have suggested that government subsidies to reduce the prices of fruits and vegetables could help to increase their consumption. |
| Consumer Link An Apple a Day Isn't Enough: Many People Not Eating Enough Fruits and Vegetables |
| Research Link Nutr J. 2011 Oct 25;10:118 |
| January 14, 2012 Humans are known to have sensors to taste sweet, sour, bitter, salty and savory (umami). New research adds fat to this list and indicates that some people are better than others at tasting the presence of fat in foods. |
| Consumer Link Blame Your Taste Buds for Liking Fat: Receptor for Tasting Fat Identified in Humans |
| Research Link Journal of Lipid Research, Dec. 31, 2011 [Epub ahead of print]. |
| January 13, 2012 With aging, there is a strong tendency to become more sedentary. However, the later years of life may be the most important time to have a daily exercise program. Relatively simple exercises can provide the strength and flexibility needed for basic daily life activities such as walking, getting up from a chair, and dressing. |
| Consumer Link Exercise And Strength Training Could Improve Physical Decline In Elderly |
| Research Link N Engl J Med. 2002 Oct 3;347(14):1068-74. |
| January 12, 2012 Autistic children often have gastrointestinal problems. A new study found that a little known bacteria called Sutterella was present in the intestines of a high proportion of autistic children but was not found in any non-autistic children. If Sutterella has any relationship with the cause or symptoms of autism remains to be determined. |
| Consumer Link Bacteria in the gut of autistic children different from non-autistic children |
| Research Link mBio 3(1):e00261-11 |
| January 11, 2012 Excessive alcohol consumption is well known to increase breast cancer risk. Some, but not all, research indicates that compounds in red wine help to decrease breast cancer risk in those who consume alcohol moderately. |
| Consumer Link Moderate Red Wine Drinking May Help Cut Women’s Breast Cancer Risk, Study Suggests |
| Research Link J Womens Health. 2011 Dec 7. [Epub ahead of print] |
| January 10, 2012 If you walk for exercise and have increased your walking speed over time, it may be time to include some jogging in your exercise mix. As walking speed increases to over 4 miles per hour, it starts to become more biomechanically comfortable to jog. |
| Consumer Link Why People Choose Running Over Walking |
| Research Link Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2012 Jan 4. [Epub ahead of print] |
| January 9, 2012 To understand the growing prevalence of type 2 diabetes, researchers are even looking at the effect of maternal nutrition during pregnancy on their offspring's risk of developing diabetes. Based on both rat and human data, limited protein intake by the mother during pregnancy can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes in her offspring. |
| Consumer Link What women eat while pregnant linked to diabetes in babies |
| Research Link Cell Death Differ. 2012 Jan; [Online ahead of print]. |
| January 8, 2012 Compounds from licorice root inhibit the growth of key bacteria that cause tooth decay. Don't be surprised if you start to see licorice root compounds in toothpaste or mouthwash ingredients. |
| Consumer Link Dried Licorice Root Fights the Bacteria That Cause Tooth Decay and Gum Disease, Study Finds |
| Research Link J Nat Prod. 2011 Dec 27;74(12):2514-9. |
| January 7, 2012 During the last decade or two of life, calorie needs generally decline, but nutrient needs do not. A study of over 500 nursing home residents found that those with low zinc status (based on blood values) were more likely to develop pneumonia and took longer to recover than those with normal zinc status. |
| Consumer Link Adequate Zinc Eases Pneumonia in Elderly, Study Finds |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2007 Oct;86(4):1167-73. |
| January 6, 2012 The common age-related decline in mental function is associated with a decrease in brain size. Older people with good vitamin and omega-3 fatty acid status tend to maintain better mental function and have less brain shrinkage. |
| Consumer Link Omega-3 Diet + Vitamins Help Keep Brain from Shrinking |
| Research Link Neurology. 2011 Dec 28. [Epub ahead of print] |
| January 5, 2012 Insulin-dependent diabetes (Type 1) presents a variety of challenges for children and teens with the condition. Recent research indicates that poor quality sleep is more common in those with type 1 diabetes and is associated with lower academic performance and behavior problems. |
| Consumer Link Poor sleep linked to increased health, behavior problems in young diabetics |
| Research Link SLEEP 2012;35(1):81-88. |
| January 4, 2012 Most beer is made from barley that contains gluten. An analysis of the gluten content of a variety of beers found that beers labeled as low-gluten contained about the same amount of gluten as regular beers. However, beers labeled as gluten-free did not contain gluten. |
| Consumer Link Some 'Low-Gluten' Beer Contains High Levels of Gluten |
| Research Link J Proteome Res. 2011 Nov 7. [Epub ahead of print] |
| January 3, 2012 Pre-eclampsia, a condition with abnormally high blood pressure, can occur during pregnancy. Taking supplemental antioxidant vitamins plus the amino acid L-arginine significantly reduced the incidence of pre-eclampsia in women at high risk for the condition. |
| Consumer Link Pre-eclampsia reduced with L-arginine plus vitamins |
| Research Link BMJ. 2011 May 19;342:d2901. |
| January 2, 2012 A study of 56 elderly women (age 64 to 82) found that 16 weeks of taking a dietary supplement containing multiple vitamins, minerals, and herbal components, enhanced various aspects of memory. It is not known what components of the multi-component supplement may have affected mental functions. |
| Consumer Link Multivitamins may boost memory: RCT data |
| Research Link Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2011 Oct 18. [Epub ahead of print] |
| January 1, 2012 Obesity expert Dr. Arya Sharma jokes that "the easiest way to gain 25 lbs is to lose 20!" Research on twins provides support to this concept that substantial bouts of weight loss can ultimately lead to more weight gain. |
| Consumer Link Will Losing Weight Make You Fat? |
| Research Link Int J Obes (Lond). 2011 Aug 9. [Epub ahead of print] |
| December 31, 2011 The ideal level of dietary protein is still a matter of debate. A recent well-designed, study found that healthy young men fed a diet with almost four times the recommended protein intake for three weeks had improved mental reaction time. |
| Consumer Link High protein intake makes you cleverer |
| Research Link Clin Nutr. 2011 Jun;30(3):303-11. |
| December 30, 2011 Even with a gluten-free diet, almost 40 percent of women with celiac disease report symptoms of depression. Iron deficiency is common in celiac disease and low iron status is known to cause depression. However, normalizing iron status in someone with celiac disease can be challenging. |
| Consumer Link Women With Celiac Disease Suffer from Depression, Disordered Eating, Study Finds |
| Research Link Chronic Illn. 2011 Sep 20. [Epub ahead of print] |
| December 29, 2011 Since even mild iodine deficiency can adversely affect cognitive function in children, the American Thyroid Association recommends that pregnant or lactating women take a supplement providing 150 micrograms (mcg) of iodine per day. The Institute of Medicine recommends that total iodine intake (from food and/or supplements combined) be 220 mcg/day during pregnancy and 290 mcg/day while breastfeeding. |
| Consumer Link Iodine in pregnancy, needs, impact and controversy |
| Research Link Trends Endocrinol Metab. 2007 Nov;18(9):338-43. |
| December 28, 2011 Vegetables contribute natural antioxidant substances to the diet. The method of cooking that preserves these antioxidants best depends on the vegetable. In general, griddle- and microwave-cooking preserve antioxidants best while pressure-cooking and boiling cause the greatest losses. |
| Consumer Link Antioxidant Levels In Cooked Vegetables Vary With Cooking Method |
| Research Link J Food Sci. 2009 Apr;74(3):H97-H103. |
| December 27, 2011 An adequate intake of fruits and vegetables has been linked to a reduced risk of developing colon or rectal cancers. A recent Australian study supported this relationship, but found that high consumption of fruit juices was associated with increased risk. |
| Consumer Link Fruits and Vegetables Reduce Risks of Specific Types of Colorectal Cancers, Study Finds |
| Research Link http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21963014 |
| December 26, 2011 For normal weight women, adequate weight gain during pregnancy is very important. For the obese woman, weight gain can be much less, but consuming a diet that meets all nutrient needs is extremely important for supporting a healthy pregnancy. |
| Consumer Link Myths and Truths of Obesity and Pregnancy |
| Research Link Semin Perinatol. 2011 Dec;35(6):317-23. |
| December 25, 2011 Santa Claus is a great example of the "Health at Every Size" concept. Although his BMI may place him in the obese category, he actually has a healthy level of body fat. Much of his weight is the muscle mass required for carrying heavy bags of toys around the world. |
| Consumer Link Santa is larger than life but his job keeps him fit |
| Research Link Nutr J. 2011 Jan 24;10:9. |
| December 24, 2011 Accumulating research on salt questions current sodium recommendations that are based on the Institute of Medicine report published in 2004. More recent research indicates that lowering sodium intake to recommended levels may slightly lower blood pressure; however, other cardiovascular risk factors are elevated. |
| Consumer Link Biggest Health & Nutrition Story of 2011: Salt Vindicated |
| Research Link Am J Hypertension (2012); 25 1, 1–15. |
| December 23, 2011 Penn State University researchers have been able to cure leukemia in a mouse model by 7 days of injecting a compound that the body produces naturally from a fish oil fatty acid called EPA. Although there remains much to do to see if this will work with humans, it certainly supports observations that an adequate intake of fish oils is associated with a reduced risk of various cancers. |
| Consumer Link Does Omega 3 Fish Oil Hold Key to Leukemia Cure |
| Research Link Blood October 3, 2011 blood-2010-11-317750 [Published online before print] |
| December 22, 2011 Confirming the importance of diets with a variety of foods from all food groups, researchers found that blood values related to cardiovascular disease were better after five weeks of consuming a diet that was relatively high in protein, moderately low in carbohydrate, and contained about 5 ounces of lean beef per day. |
| Consumer Link Study confirms beef’s role in heart-healthy diet |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2011 Dec 14. [Epub ahead of print] |
| December 21, 2011 Rickets, a severe bone disease in infants, has long been known to be caused by vitamin D deficiency. Unfortunately, there is a resurgence of this ancient infant disease in the children of parents trying to do all the right things. Exclusive breastfeeding does not meet infant vitamin D needs. Without some sun exposure, infants require supplemental vitamin D. |
| Consumer Link The disturbing reason why a growing number of parents are being falsely accused of shaking their babies to death |
| Research Link Indian J Med Res. 2008 Mar;127(3):250-5. |
| December 20, 2011 During the early adult years, it is common for physical activity to decline greatly compared to the adolescent years. This period may represent one of the most important stages of life to find ways to stay active. |
| Consumer Link Young Adults Drop Exercise With Move to College or University |
| Research Link Am J Prev Med. 2012; 42 (1):14-20. |
| December 19, 2011 While consuming a low calorie diet for weight loss, those who consumed most of the day's carbohydrate calories in their evening meal lost more weight and experienced less hunger than those who spread out carbohydrate intake evenly across the day. |
| Consumer Link Save Your Carbs For Dinner? |
| Research Link Obesity (Silver Spring). 2011 Oct;19(10):2006-14 |
| December 18, 2011 A small study with eight type 2 diabetic participants found that daily brief, high intensity exercise (ten 1-minute bouts of exercise with one minute of rest between each bout) greatly improved blood glucose control within two weeks. |
| Consumer Link J Appl Physiol. 2011 Dec;111(6):1554-60. |
| Research Link Brief, Intense Exercise Lowers Blood Sugar, Small Study Finds |
| December 17, 2011 Research into mechanisms that explain how coffee consumption may reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease has identified caffeine as one of the protective factors. However, there is at least one other unidentified preventive substance in coffee according to studies with mouse models. |
| Consumer Link Lots of coffee may ward off Alzheimer's, USF finds |
| Research Link J Alzheimers Dis. 2011;25(2):323-35. |
| December 16, 2011 What's a calorie? Most people have a vague idea. But, researchers found that providing a physical activity equivalent such as how long you would need to run to burn off the calories in a sugar-sweetened soda was the most effective way to reduce the purchase of sodas by teens. |
| Consumer Link To Make Kids Snub Soda Translate the Calorie Count |
| Research Link Am J Public Health. Published online ahead of print December 15, 2011: e1-e7. |
| December 15, 2011 We enjoy the flavors of various spices and herbs used in the right amounts to season foods. However, there is evidence that concentrated preparations such as extracts and oils from some common plant products (eg. basil, fennel, and sassafras) can contain excessively high levels of carcinogenic substances. |
| Consumer Link Some Plant-Based Food Supplements Contain High Levels of Cancer Causing Agents, Study Suggests |
| Research Link Food Nutrition Sci. 2011;2(9):989-1010. (Nov. 2011) |
| December 14, 2011 The health benefits of grapes and red wine have been attributed to the polyphenol components in the fruit's skins. Apple peels also contain polyphenols that have anti-inflammatory effects in the lower intestine. |
| Consumer Link Scientists Discover Anti-Inflammatory Polyphenols in Apple Peels |
| Research Link J Leukoc Biol. 2011 Dec;90(6):1043-54. Epub 2011 Jun 21. |
| December 13, 2011 Perhaps you have eaten raw cookie dough with no problem. However, it wasn't without risk. Even the store-bought, ready-to-bake cookie dough has caused food borne illness. To eliminate risk, enjoy the dough in its cookie form. That's why they are called cookies instead of doughies. |
| Consumer Link Beware of Raw Cookie Dough |
| Research Link FoodSafety.gov - Dangerous Food Safety Mistakes |
| December 12, 2011 A 3-month study, reported at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, found that a low-carbohydrate diet two days a week lowered risk factors associated with breast cancer. This is the type of study that raises more questions than answers, but it appears to deserve further research. |
| Consumer Link Carb Counting May Abate Breast Cancer Risk Factors |
| Research Link SABCS 2011;abstract P3-09-02. |
| December 11, 2011 Low vitamin D status now has been shown to be more common in obese children than normal weight children and it appears to be associated with increased insulin resistance. Consuming milk, other vitamin D fortified beverages, and fatty fish can increase vitamin D in the diet. |
| Consumer Link Diabetes, Vitamin D Levels Linked in Heavy Kids |
| Research Link J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2011 Nov 9. [Epub ahead of print] |
| December 10, 2011 Fructose has been considered to be a better sugar than glucose for diabetics because it has much less impact on blood glucose levels. However, excessive fructose may contribute to increased blood triglycerides and blood pressure. |
| Consumer Link Fructose No Substitute for Glucose in Diabetes |
| Research Link Diabetes Care. 2009 Oct;32(10):1930-7. |
| December 9, 2011 Final exam week can be a mental endurance event for college students this time of the year. To optimize mental performance on exams, it helps to get adequate sleep and consume moderate sized meals that are balanced and include some carbohydrate to help maintain a stable level of blood glucose. |
| Consumer Link Exam cram requires good food, rest |
| Research Link Br J Nutr. 1997 Apr;77 Suppl 1:S29-38. |
| December 8, 2011 Another diet scam is hitting the dust. FDA is cracking down on the so-called HCG diets that use various forms of a hormone called human corionic gonadotropin. The diets "work" only because they restrict calorie intake. Though it has been good for marketing hype, HCG is no better than a placebo for weight loss. |
| Consumer Link Firms warned over sale of weight-loss hormone |
| Research Link U.S. Food & Drug Administration, Dec. 6, 2011. |
| December 7, 2011 Web-based marketing of bogus nutrition products can be very creative, misleading, and downright fraudulent. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission has filed lawsuits against a company using fake news websites to promote their acai diet pills. The defendants have allegedly taken in more than $25 million from consumers in the United States. |
| Consumer Link FTC ups the ante in crackdown vs bogus acai weight loss claims |
| Research Link Federal Trade Commission, 12/01/2011. |
| December 6, 2011 Obese children who become normal weight adults have the same risk for developing heart disease or diabetes as people who were never obese. Helping overweight and obese children properly grow into their weight as they approach their adult years can have lifelong positive health consequences. |
| Consumer Link Risk of heart disease from childhood obesity reversible |
| Research Link N Engl J Med. 2011 Nov 17;365(20):1876-85. |
| December 5, 2011 Improving the overall quality of women's diets may help to reduce birth defects more than focusing on meeting needs for a single nutrient like folic acid. |
| Consumer Link Overall Quality of Pregnant Woman’s Diet Affects Risk for Two Birth Defects, Study Shows |
| Research Link Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2011 Oct 3. [Epub ahead of print] |
| December 4, 2011 Want to get kids to eat vegetables? A new study demonstrates what many parents may already know. Give kids a tasty dressing or sauce to dip the vegetables in and they will eat them. |
| Consumer Link Bitter Sensitive Children Eat More Vegetables With Help of Dip |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2011 Nov 21. [Epub ahead of print] |
| December 3, 2011 A new study out of Sweden quantified the antioxidant capacity of the total diet of over 35,000 older women and found that the risk of stroke was decreases as the consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains increased. Future studies need to evaluate the role of nutrient adequacy of the diet concurrently with antioxidant capacity. |
| Consumer Link Vegetables, Fruits, Grains Reduce Stroke Risk in Women |
| Research Link Stroke, 2011; DOI: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.111.635557 [ahead of print] |
| December 2, 2011 How you prepare your fish may affect your brain over time. Brain scans on 260 healthy adults showed that consuming baked or broiled fish weekly was associated with a brain composition typical of those with a lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Fried fish did not have the same protective effect. |
| Consumer Link Fish may protect the brain, study indicates |
| Research Link Radiological Society of North America Annual Meeting 2011 |
| December 1, 2011 Although caffeine has had some good press lately, it is good to remember that "it's the dose that makes the poison." During 2009, over 13,000 people in the U.S. visited hospital emergency departments for reasons related to caffeine overdose from energy-drink consumption. |
| Consumer Link And now some bad news about caffeine |
| Research Link Drug Abuse Warning Network Report, Nov. 22, 2011. |
| November 30, 2011 It is common knowledge that a low intake of dietary iodine disrupts thyroid function. Less well known is that iron is a required co-factor for iodine to be incorporated into the thyroid hormone molecule. Consequently, low iron status can impair thyroid function. |
| Consumer Link Iron plays an important role for the thyroid |
| Research Link Thyroid. 2002 Oct;12(10):867-78. |
| November 29, 2011 Want a better night’s sleep? A study of over 3000 people found that those who met current physical activity guidelines had better quality sleep and less leg cramps while sleeping. Current guidelines include at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity weekly. |
| Consumer Link Physical Activity Impacts Overall Quality of Sleep |
| Research Link Mental Health Phys Act. 2011 Dec;4(2):65-69. |
| November 28, 2011 Nocturia, a condition defined as needing to rise two or more times a night to urinate, can hamper the ability to get good quality sleep. Management or treatment of the problem requires medical evaluation because the condition may be a sign of underlying disease or simply a sign of aging. |
| Consumer Link Nighttime bathroom visits often increase with age |
| Research Link Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol. 2011 Oct;23(5):376-85. |
| November 27, 2011 Are obese people at greater risk of death following surgery? A study of almost 190,000 people reports that they are not. However, those with a low body mass index (BMI less than 23.1) had the greatest risk of death during the 30 days following surgery. |
| Consumer Link Body Mass Index Associated With Short-Term Mortality Rates Following Surgery |
| Research Link Archives of Surgery, 2011;Nov 21. [Epub ahead of print] |
| November 26, 2011 A new review of over 140 studies on alcohol consumption confirms that heavy drinking (more than 3 or 4 drinks a day) is associated with an increased risk of dementia. However, light to moderate drinking seems to reduce the risk of dementia and cognitive impairment in older people. |
| Consumer Link Drink Wine To Beat Dementia Risk, But Find The Balance Study Reports |
| Research Link Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat. 2011;7:465-84. |
| November 25, 2011 Good news about coffee continues to brew. A recent study found that women who consume 4 or more cups of coffee a day have a reduced risk of endometrial cancer. |
| Consumer Link Study links coffee to lower cancer risk in women |
| Research Link Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. Nov, 2011 [Online ahead of print] |
| November 24, 2011 Despite ongoing news about economic woes in the nation, sales are up for organic and heritage turkeys that can sell for up to $150. Whether you are spending $3 or $150 on a turkey, best wishes for a happy Thanksgiving Day. |
| Consumer Link Thanksgiving goes gourmet with high-end turkeys |
| Research Link USDA Top Turkey Resources |
| November 23, 2011 Low vitamin D status has been linked to increased risk of conditions like hypertension, heart failure, diabetes, and renal failure. However, high vitamin D status (blood levels over 100 ng/dL) is associated with a significantly increased incidence of a heart condition called atrial fibrillation. Remember Balance! |
| Consumer Link Circulation. 2011; 124: A14699. |
| Research Link Study Shows Too Much Vitamin D May Harm Your Heart Read more: http://technorati.com/women/article/study-shows-too-much-vitamin-d/#ixzz1eUnEQh9Y |
| November 22, 2011 Glucose is the major energy source for the brain. When blood glucose levels drop, brain centers are activated that trigger the desire to consume high-calorie foods. Maintaining blood glucose levels with regularly scheduled meals and moderate snacking my help to avoid that ravenous drive to binge. |
| Consumer Link To Ditch Dessert, Feed the Brain |
| Research Link J Clin Invest. 2011 October 3; 121(10): 4161–4169. |
| November 21, 2011 As public health messages continue to recommend a low salt diet, the research support for the recommendation is questionable. Large studies that attempt to demonstrate the benefits of a low salt diet often fail to find benefit and even find evidence of risk to health. |
| Consumer Link New study casts further doubt on risk of death from higher salt intake |
| Research Link J Gen Intern Med. 2008 Sep;23(9):1297-302. |
| November 20, 2011 High fat meals may put asthmatics at increased risk of an attack. A study with asthmatics found that a high calorie, high fat meal impaired lung function for four hours following the meal. This effect likely continued beyond four hours, but measurements were not made past four hours. |
| Consumer Link High-Fat Meals a No-No for Asthma Patients, Researchers Find |
| Research Link J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2011 May;127(5):1133-40. |
| November 19, 2011 We now know that soybeans are a good source of protein along with other nutrients like riboflavin, vitamin K, copper, manganese, iron, etc. Archeologists are finding that communities in China, Korea, and Japan were well aware of this nutrient-rich food and were farming soybeans as long as 5000 years ago. |
| Consumer Link Soybean Adoption Came Early by Many Cultures, Archaeologists Say |
| Research Link PLoS ONE, 2011; 6 (11): e26720. |
| November 18, 2011 Reducing dietary fat may help to prevent or slow prostate cancer. However, reducing fat too much can provide inadequate amounts of essential fatty acids and compromise the absorption of fat soluble nutrients and phytochemicals. A new study indicates that fish oil supplements, along with a low fat diet, benefited prostate cancer patients. |
| Consumer Link You Are What You Eat: Low Fat Diet With Fish Oil Slows Growth of Human Prostate Cancer Cells, Study Suggests |
| Research Link Cancer Prev Res (Phila). 2011 Oct 25. [Epub ahead of print] |
| November 17, 2011 If you like coffee and your body and brain function well under the influence of coffee, there are more reasons to keep drinking it than not. For example evidence is continuing to grow that coffee consumption helps to prevent type 2 diabetes and Parkinson's Disease. |
| Consumer Link Coffee isn’t always bad for you |
| Research Link Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2011 Apr;51(4):363-73. |
| November 16, 2011 It has been called normal weight obesity, skinny-fat syndrome, and thin outside, fat inside (TOFI). These normal weight individuals with a high proportion of body fat appear to be at high risk for type 2 diabetes like their overweight counterparts. |
| Consumer Link Diabetes a growing threat to young and slim |
| Research Link Obesity (Silver Spring). 2011 Jun 9. [Epub ahead of print] |
| November 15, 2011 It is a common assumption that adequate dietary fiber helps to prevent colorectal cancer. Although this has not been supported by all studies on the topic, a new meta-analysis of multiple studies does support this assumption. |
| Consumer Link Fibre, Whole Grains, Linked To Lower Colorectal Cancer Risk |
| Research Link BMJ 2011;343:bmj.d6617; published online 10 November 2011. |
| November 14, 2011 Preventing childhood obesity involves much more than targeting at-risk children. It is increasing apparent that the root cause of this problem involves social changes in values and lifestyle that have occurred over time. Health professionals need to promote the values that will lead to core societal changes that support overall human well-being. |
| Consumer Link Why Preventing Childhood Obesity Should Not Be About Preventing Childhood Obesity |
| Research Link Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2011 Nov;165(11):973-5. |
| November 13, 2011 Nutrition guidelines often stress eating a wide variety of foods to enhance the odds of meeting all nutrient needs. However, it may not be wise to apply this concept to calorie-dense snack foods. When presented with unfamiliar snack foods, 11 to 12 year old children tended to overestimate the amount of the food needed to provide satiety. |
| Consumer Link Familiarity Increases the Fullness That Children Expect from Snack Foods |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2011 Nov;94(5):1196-201. |
| November 12, 2011 Many aspects of health are determined by the interplay between our genes and what we eat. For example, there is evidence that people with a high risk gene variant for heart disease have a significantly lower heart attack risk if their diet includes plenty of fruits and vegetables. |
| Consumer Link Diet Rich in Fruit and Vegetables Can Modify Heart Disease Risk Genes |
| Research Link PLoS Medicine, 2011;9:e100110. |
| November 11, 2011 The risk of teenagers developing metabolic syndrome is lower in those who have a greater intake of high fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans. However, the consumption of saturated fat and cholesterol was not associated with the risk. These results emphasize the importance for health messages to stress what to eat rather than what not to eat. |
| Consumer Link More Fiber, but Not Necessarily Less Fat, Good for Teen Diets |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2011 Nov;111(11):1688-95. |
| November 10, 2011 Weight loss has been shown to adversely affect bone health. Results from a recent study indicate that consuming a diet higher in protein primarily from dairy foods and participating in daily aerobic and resistance exercise positively affected bone health indicators. |
| Consumer Link Dairy Foods May Improve Bone Health During Diet and Exercise in Overweight Premenopausal Women |
| Research Link Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 2011; DOI: 10.1210/jc.2011-2165 |
| November 9, 2011 Low carbohydrate "ketogenic" diets are known to help reduce seizures in people with epilepsy. Using a mouse model, researchers have learned how this dietary therapy affects brain chemistry. This may open new directions in the treatment of epilepsy. |
| Consumer Link Understanding the Antiepileptic Benefits of an Atkins-Like Diet |
| Research Link J Clin Invest. 2011;121(7):2679–2683. doi:10.1172/JCI57813. |
| November 8, 2011 Research indicates that some people over-consume calories when foods are offered in small size packages. During the holiday season, bite-sized calorie-packed goodies are widely available. So remember, moderation will help to limit weight gain over the holidays. |
| Consumer Link Big weight gains can come in small, sweet packages |
| Research Link J Consumer Res. 2008; 35:391-405. |
| November 7, 2011 Unless carefully designed, public health programs aimed at reducing obesity can have unintended impacts on the target audience. The potential ethical and psycho-social consequences must be carefully considered. |
| Consumer Link Ethical Dilemmas In Obesity Prevention |
| Research Link Obes Rev. 2011 Sep;12(9):669-79. |
| November 6, 2011 Fatty liver disease, a condition in which fat builds up in the liver, can have serious health consequences. The condition appears to be most commonly caused by alcohol abuse, obesity, hormonal changes and/or diabetes. However, new research is linking fatty liver to both the microbial balance in the lower intestine and an individual's genetically determined ability to synthesize choline. |
| Consumer Link Specific Populations of Gut Bacteria Linked to Fatty Liver |
| Research Link Gastroenterology. 2011 Mar;140(3):976-86. |
| November 5, 2011 Obese men taking 150 mg of resveratrol per day for 30 days experienced positive changes such as decreased liver fat levels and a reduction in indicators of inflammation. This dose is significantly lower than that often used in animal studies, but is still about 100 times the amount of resveratrol in a glass of red wine. |
| Consumer Link Red wine antioxidant could give metabolism a boost |
| Research Link Cell Metabolism, Volume 14, Issue 5, 612-622, 2 November 2011 |
| November 4, 2011 In a recent study, researchers found that people consuming a 1-ounce mixture of raw unpeeled walnuts, almonds and hazelnuts daily for twelve weeks had higher levels of serotonin. Serotonin is associated with promoting a positive emotional state and normal sleep. |
| Consumer Link Benefits of Nut Consumption for People With Abdominal Obesity, High Blood Sugar, High Blood Pressure |
| Research Link J Proteome Res. 2011 Sep 29. [Epub ahead of print] |
| November 3, 2011 Feeling down and depressed? Take a dose of exercise. Research is finding that depression tends to reduce the desire for exercise and that staying physically active is associated with a decreased risk of depression. |
| Consumer Link Exercise May Reduce Risk of Depression in Seniors |
| Research Link Health Psychol. 2011 Jul;30(4):453-62. |
| November 2, 2011 Curcumin, the compound in turmeric that gives curry its yellow color, is showing promise for use in the treatment of inflammatory conditions such as tendinitis. However, people with low iron status should not use curcumin because it is a strong binder of iron and has the potential to further aggravate iron status. |
| Consumer Link Curry Spice Could Offer Treatment Hope for Tendinitis |
| Research Link Blood. 2009 Jan 8;113(2):462-9. |
| November 1, 2011 New collaborative research by Duke and MIT researchers has confirmed that zinc is involved in nerve function in specific parts of the brain. Zinc deficiency is linked to problems such as depression and zinc excess appears to aggravate epilepsy. An adequate, but not excessive intake of zinc is likely essential for normal brain function. |
| Consumer Link Zinc Regulates Communication Between Brain Cells |
| Research Link Neuron. 2011 Sep 22;71(6):1116-26. Epub 2011 Sep 21. |
| October 31, 2011 With Halloween approaching, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns that eating too much black licorice candy at once can be life-threatening. The compound glycyrrhizin present in most licorice can cause a drop in potassium levels in some people, leading to abnormal heart rhythms, high blood pressure, edema (swelling), lethargy, and even congestive heart failure. |
| Consumer Link Black Licorice Halloween Hazard! Don't Eat Too Much Warns FDA |
| Research Link FDA Consumer Health Information |
| October 30, 2011 With Halloween approaching, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns that eating too much black licorice candy at once can be life-threatening. The compound glycyrrhizin present in most licorice can cause a drop in potassium levels in some people, leading to abnormal heart rhythms, high blood pressure, edema (swelling), lethargy, and even congestive heart failure. |
| Consumer Link Black Licorice Halloween Hazard! Don't Eat Too Much Warns FDA |
| Research Link FDA Consumer Health Information |
| October 29, 2011 Food safety is essential for nutrition and health. This is especially true when it comes to potentially deadly microorganisms such as Clostridium botulinum. Remember the simple food safety rule . . . when in doubt, throw it out. |
| Consumer Link Err on the side of caution when it comes to botulism |
| Research Link Indian J Med Res. 2011 July; 134(1): 10–12. |
| October 28, 2011 Arthritis can make exercise painful. However, recent research indicates that a little exercise pain can lead to a gain in joint health and reduce overall pain in the long run. |
| Consumer Link Exercise Eases Arthritis in Obese Mice Even Without Weight Loss |
| Research Link Arthritis Rheum. 2011 Sep 27. doi: 10.1002/art.33332. [Epub ahead of print] |
| October 27, 2011 Dehydration is clearly a risk during a long athletic event like a marathon. However, consumption of excess fluids during a marathon is risky as well. Over-hydration can lead to dangerous cellular swelling that even affects brain function. |
| Consumer Link Marathon runners who drink too much water are at risk of a deadly condition |
| Research Link Br J Sports Med 2011;45:646-649. |
| October 26, 2011 As Breast Cancer Awareness Month nears its end, the key things to remember for the rest of the year are: exercise, maintain a normal body weight, consume a diet with a variety of foods, including vegetables and fruits, consume meats primarily in stews and soups with vegetables, limit alcohol to one drink a day. |
| Consumer Link Stay active to bring down your risk of breast cancer |
| Research Link Recent Results Cancer Res. 2011;186:13-42. |
| October 25, 2011 A substantial and growing amount of basic research on animal species is demonstrating that nutrition and lifestyle factors can alter DNA-associated proteins in ways that can pass on to the the next generation and even affect lifespan. |
| Consumer Link Propensity for Longer Life Span Inherited Non-Genetically Over Generations, Study Shows |
| Research Link Nature. 2011 Oct 19. [Epub ahead of print] |
| October 24, 2011 Research continues to support physical activity as a key factor in staying healthy as the years add up. Interspersing high intensity with moderate intensity exercise is proving to be especially important for keeping fit and reducing chronic disease risk. |
| Consumer Link Cheating Father Time: 50-Year-Old Can Be Every Bit as Fit as Someone 30 Years Younger, but Exercise Is Key |
| Research Link Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2011 Aug;43(8):1465-73. |
| October 23, 2011 To maintain natural vitamin quality and food safety, appropriate food packaging is essential. Until now, it has been difficult to determine if a packaged food container remains airtight. Marta Lewander, physicist at Lund University in Sweden, has developed a new laser instrument to check for abnormal gas content. |
| Consumer Link Laser ensures food is fresh |
| Research Link Laser Absorption Spectroscopy of Gas in Scattering Media - 2010 University dissertation from Lund University by Marta Lewander |
| October 22, 2011 Fibromyalgia is syndrome characterized by chronic pain and fatigue along with multiple related symptoms. A recent small study with 22 women found that participating in yoga two days a week for 8 weeks reduced pain and even helped to normalize cortisol levels. |
| Consumer Link Yoga Boosts Stress-Busting Hormone, Reduces Pain, Study Finds |
| Research Link J Pain Res. 2011;4:189-201. |
| October 21, 2011 The herb hoodia gordonii has been widely marketed as an appetite suppressant that promotes weight loss. Finally, a well-designed study put the herb to the test and found that it had no effect on weight loss and had some significant adverse effects. |
| Consumer Link Why Unilever canned €20m hoodia project: Newly published study disappoints |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2011 Oct 12. [Epub ahead of print] |
| October 20, 2011 Food allergies are associated with a compromised cell-lining structure of the small intestine. Recent research in a mouse model found that feeding the animals kefir-cultured milk or soymilk reduced their allergic responses to a known allergen. Kefir is made from a traditional culture composed of both bacteria and yeast. |
| Consumer Link Kefir ingredients could help food allergies |
| Research Link J Science of Food and Ag. (2006) 86:2527–2533. |
| October 19, 2011 Using an osteoarthritis-prone guinea pig strain as an animal model, researchers found that omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil could greatly reduce the signs and symptoms associated with osteoarthritis. Further research needs to see if these fatty acids primarily prevent osteoarthritis or if they also can be used to treat osteoarthritis. |
| Consumer Link Omega-3 Fatty Acids Shown to Prevent or Slow Progression of Osteoarthritis |
| Research Link Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2011 Sep;19(9):1150-7. |
| October 18, 2011 Obese kids with asthma often have more difficulty controlling the condition. Consequently, helping them find safe ways to exercise regularly and eat a healthful diet without excess calories can help both their weight and their asthma. |
| Consumer Link Obese kids have more asthma flare-ups |
| Research Link J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2011 Aug 5. [Epub ahead of print] |
| October 17, 2011 Protein appears to play a special role in satiety. A recent study found that under controlled conditions, non-dieting lean adults consumed 12 percent more calories when their diet contained 10 percent of calories from protein compared to when they consumed a diet with 15 percent of calories from protein. |
| Consumer Link Proper Protein Intake Crucial for Moderating Energy Intake, Keeping Obesity at Bay |
| Research Link PLoS ONE, 2011; 6 (10): e25929. |
| October 16, 2011 Herbal dietary supplements commonly contain natural chemicals that interact with drugs. Of special concern is the recent observation that 69 percent of the 100 most-used supplements interfere with the effectiveness of the blood thinner warfarin (coumadin). |
| Consumer Link Danger of Combining Warfarin With Herbal and Dietary Supplements Revealed |
| Research Link Methods Mol Biol. 2010;663:229-40. |
| October 15, 2011 Population growth and increased global food needs are projected to create significant pressure on agriculture, land availability, water, biodiversity, and climate change. As we seek solutions to minimize environmental damage, necessary dietary changes will be challenged to maintain an adequate intake of essential nutrients. |
| Consumer Link Feeding the World While Protecting the Planet: Global Plan for Sustainable Agriculture |
| Research Link Nature (2011) published online 12 October |
| October 14, 2011 Peanut allergies can be life-threatening. A new technique to treat peanut allergies may be on the horizon. Researchers have found that attaching a peanut protein to blood cells and infusing them back into mice can eliminate the peanut allergy. |
| Consumer Link Scientists figure out how to switch off peanut allergy |
| Research Link J Immunol. 2011 Oct 5. [Epub ahead of print] |
| October 13, 2011 Vitamins and other beneficial food components are generally absorbed very well from dietary supplements. However, key beneficial phytochemicals in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables are absorbed much better from the fresh or lightly cooked vegetable. |
| Consumer Link Health Benefits of Broccoli Require the Whole Food, Not Supplements |
| Research Link J. Agric. Food Chem., Sept 19, 2011 [Epub] |
| October 12, 2011 It is known that certain genes can greatly increase the risk of heart disease. However, even in people who carry these high risk genes, a varied diet that includes plenty of vegetables and fruits can significantly lower the risk of heart disease. |
| Consumer Link Eating Your Greens Can Change the Effect of Your Genes On Heart Disease |
| Research Link PLoS Medicine, 2011; 9 (10): e1001106 |
| October 11, 2011 Today's drug tests for highly competitive athletes can detect even trace amounts of banned substances. Due to contamination with illegal drugs, some dietary supplements have caused athletes to have positive drug tests. |
| Consumer Link Dietary Supplements Could Make Athletes Unwitting Drugs Cheats |
| Research Link J Sports Sci. 2007;25 Suppl 1:S103-13. |
| October 10, 2011 The B-vitamin niacin has been used medicinally in humans to lower LDL and raise HDL cholesterol levels. New animal research has found that a compound synthesized from niacin in the body. called NMN, benefits blood sugar control in diabetic mice. Human research is needed to evaluate the possible use in people. |
| Consumer Link Natural Compound Helps Reverse Diabetes in Mice |
| Research Link Cell Metabolism, 5 October 2011; 14(4) pp. 528 - 536. |
| October 9, 2011 When people cut potatoes out of their diet, they generally replace them with foods like bread, rice or pasta. A cup of cooked potato provides about 115 calories. However, a single slice of whole-grain bread has about 130 calories, a cup of rice (brown or white) is more than 200 calories and a cup of pasta will range from 150 to 200 calories. Do the math and potatoes look pretty good. |
| Consumer Link Nutrient-packed potatoes wrongfully considered ‘bad’ |
| Research Link Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2009 Nov;49(10):823-40. |
| October 8, 2011 The flavors of foods that a mother consumes during breastfeeding pass into her milk. Consequently, when a mom consumes a varied diet during breastfeeding that includes fruits and vegetables on a regular basis, her baby is less likely to be a picky eater after it makes the transition to solid foods. |
| Consumer Link Eat Fruits And Veggies While Breastfeeding And Baby Will Probably Like Them |
| Research Link Food Qual Prefer. 2006 October; 17(7-8): 635–637. |
| October 7, 2011 Too much of a good thing isn’t always good. For example, high intake of calcium and vitamin D increased the risk of poor cognitive function in elderly. |
| Consumer Link High Calcium And Vitamin D Intakes Associated With Higher Risk Of Cognitive Impairment In Elderly |
| Research Link Nutr Res. 2008 May;28(5):285-92. |
| October 6, 2011 Since the usual sources of food contamination with listeria are deli meats and soft cheeses, the recent listeria food poisonings from cantaloupe are unusual. Before cutting a melon, it is good practice to scrub the surface with a clean produce brush, rinse well, and dry a clean cloth or paper towel. |
| Consumer Link Cantaloupe toll rises to 100 sick and 18 dead, CDC says |
| Research Link CDC Investigation Update |
| October 5, 2011 Researchers have found that an adequate vitamin D status lowers your risk of type 2 diabetes and subclinical inflammation. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin D Could Lower Risk of Developing Type 2 Diabetes, Study Suggests |
| Research Link Diabetes Care. 2011 Oct;34(10):2320-2. Epub 2011 Aug 26. |
| October 4, 2011 Body mass index or BMI often is applied to the health assessment of individuals. This, however, is risky business. An evaluation of the use of BMI with children found that 2 out of 3 children classified as obese by BMI actually had normal levels of body fat. |
| Consumer Link BMI not useful on its own to assess individual’s health |
| Research Link J Young Invest. 2011 July;22(1):13-35. |
| October 3, 2011 Have you ever heard that if you feel like you are getting sick, just drink enough alcohol and it will kill off anything that might ail you? Don't believe it. According to some new research, alcohol abuse is likely to impair immune functions and increase susceptibility to viral infection. |
| Consumer Link Alcohol Impairs the Body's Ability to Fight Off Viral Infection, Study Finds |
| Research Link BMC Immunology 2011, 12:55 |
| October 2, 2011 Taking glucocorticoid drugs like prednisone, cortisone, etc. more than doubles the risk of severe vitamin D deficiency according to an analysis of National Health and Nutrition Examinations Survey (NHANES) data on over 22,000 children, adolescents, and adults. |
| Consumer Link Oral Steroids Linked To Severe Vitamin D Deficiency In Nationwide Study |
| Research Link J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2011 Sep 28. [Epub ahead of print] |
| October 1, 2011 Children commonly go through picky eating phases. However, refusal to eat enough food or the avoidance of a complete food group can result in a "feeding disorder." Feeding disorders can seriously impair physical and mental development. Due to the risk of permanent damage professional intervention is needed. |
| Consumer Link Does Your Picky Eater Have a 'Feeding Disorder'? |
| Research Link Pediatric Feeding Disorders Clinic at Kennedy Krieger Institute |
| September 30, 2011 Resveratrol is a compound found in the skins of dark colored grapes and the juice and wine made from them. Peanuts and some berries also contain resveratrol. Cell-culture and animal research indicate that resveratrol may help to prevent cardiovascular disease and cancer, however definitive human research is lacking. |
| Consumer Link Red Wine Ingredient Resveratrol Stops Breast Cancer Growth, Study Suggests |
| Research Link The FASEB Journal, 2011; 25 (10): 3695. |
| September 29, 2011 Recent results from the large Nurses' Health Study indicated that older women who consumed the most caffeine (mostly as coffee) had the lowest incidence of depression. The study design cannot prove that caffeine or caffeinated coffee reduces the risk of depression but their results suggest that caffeine may provide a protective effect - mechanism unknown. |
| Consumer Link Increased Caffeinated Coffee Consumption Associated With Decreased Risk of Depression in Women, Study Finds |
| Research Link Arch Intern Med. 2011;171(17):1571-1578. |
| September 28, 2011 A four and a half year study of 121 older people found that those with the lowest vitamin B-12 status experienced the greatest brain shrinkage and decline in cognitive function. The blood level of vitamin B-12 itself was not associated with cognitive problems or loss in brain volume, confirming that measuring other related blood factors is a better test of B-12 status. |
| Consumer Link Low Vitamin B12 Levels May Lead to Brain Shrinkage, Cognitive Problems |
| Research Link Neurology. 2011 Sept 27;77(13):1276-1282. |
| September 27, 2011 For many decades, it has been common practice for hospitals to send new mothers home with a supply of free infant formula. Fortunately, this practice is beginning to decline as hospital personnel realize that it tends to reduce breastfeeding which is almost always better for the baby’s health. |
| Consumer Link Breast-Feeding Boost: Fewer Hospitals Handing Out Free Formula |
| Research Link Pediatrics 2011; Sept [ePub Ahead of Print] |
| September 26, 2011 If you thought that prunes were only good for keeping the bowels on the move, think again. Also called dried plums, prunes are beneficial to bone health. It is not known exactly why prunes are good for bones, but it is likely due to the unique mixture of phytochemicals, vitamins, and minerals found in prunes. |
| Consumer Link No Bones About It: Eating Dried Plums Helps Prevent Fractures and Osteoporosis, Study Suggests |
| Research Link Br J Nutr. 2011 Sep;106(6):923-30. |
| September 25, 2011 A lesser-known variety of rice is black in color due to anthocyanin antioxidant compounds like those found in blueberries. Based on animal research with black rice, it may be good to mix black rice with white and brown rice for both color and good health. |
| Consumer Link Black Rice Bran May Help Fight Disease-Related Inflammation |
| Research Link J Ag Food Chem, 2010; 58 (18): 10007. |
| September 24, 2011 If the recommendation to exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week is too much for you, you can take heart in the results of a very large study conducted in Taiwan. Following over 400,000 people over a 22 year period, researchers found that just 15 minutes a day on most days (90 minutes per week) was enough exercise to extend the lifespan by about 3 years. |
| Consumer Link 15 minutes of exercise a day can extend life by three years |
| Research Link Lancet. 2011 Aug 14. [Epub ahead of print] |
| September 23, 2011 A meta-analysis of 61 studies indicated that alcohol consumption is associated with increased risk of colorectal cancer. One to two drinks a day was associated with a rather slight increase in risk, but more than four drinks a day was associated with significantly increased risk that continued to increase with higher alcohol consumption. |
| Consumer Link Relation of alcohol consumption to colorectal cancer |
| Research Link Ann Oncol. 2011 Sep;22(9):1958-72. |
| September 22, 2011 New research has established that zinc plays an essential role in the nerve function of a key memory and learning center of the brain called the hippocampus. Both adequate zinc in the diet and avoidance of too much zinc from excessive supplementation appear to be important for optimal function of these brain cells. |
| Consumer Link Zinc is good for the memory... but too much could 'trigger epilepsy' |
| Research Link Neuron 2011;71(6):1116-1126. |
| September 21, 2011 Mushrooms are one of the few non-animal food sources of vitamin D. To boost the vitamin D content of commercial mushrooms, some growers expose their growing mushrooms to ultraviolet light. |
| Consumer Link A Scientific 'Go' for Commercial Production of Vitamin-D Enhanced Mushrooms |
| Research Link J Ag Food Chem 2011; 59 (16): 8724-8732. |
| September 20, 2011 As a group, vegetarians are thought to have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease than their omnivorous counterparts. However, vegetarians do contract heart disease. Vegetarian diet risk factors include a low intake of vitamin B-12 and omega-3 fatty acids. |
| Consumer Link Vegans' Elevated Heart Risk Requires Omega-3s and B12, Study Suggests |
| Research Link J. Agric. Food Chem., 2011, 59 (3), pp 777–784. |
| September 19, 2011 A recent meta-analysis of studies on caffeine consumption during pregnancy concluded that caffeine intake during pregnancy is not associated with premature birth. However, due to potential links with lower birth weights, it is commonly recommended to keep caffeine intake below 300 mg per day from all sources combined (coffee, tea, sodas with caffeine, etc.). |
| Consumer Link Caffeine in Pregnancy |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2010 Nov;92(5):1120-32. Epub 2010 Sep 15. |
| September 18, 2011 According to a well-designed mouse study, when mice consume a high fat diet before and during pregnancy, they have babies that grow up fatter and have smaller livers. Although this cannot be directly applied to humans, it does suggest that extreme diets are a bad idea during pregnancy. |
| Consumer Link Moms Who Eat High-Fat Diet Before, During Pregnancy 'Program' Babies to Be Fat, at Risk, Mouse Study Shows |
| Research Link Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab. 2011 Sep 6. [Epub ahead of print] |
| September 17, 2011 The old adage to eat an apple a day may help to keep body fat at bay. When a fresh apple was consumed before a meal, people consumed 15 percent less calories on average. And, that included the calories from the apple. Apple sauce and apple juice did not have the same effect. |
| Consumer Link What Are the Benefits of an Apple a Day? |
| Research Link Appetite. 2009 Apr;52(2):416-22. |
| September 16, 2011 Breakfast cereals are commonly fortified with vitamins and minerals. A recent study of over 3700 low income individuals in the U.K. found that study participants who commonly consumed breakfast cereals generally had a greater intake of micronutrients than those who did not consume cereals. |
| Consumer Link Breakfast cereals boost nutritional intake in low income populations: Study |
| Research Link Eur J Clin Nutr. 2011 Aug 10. [Epub ahead of print] |
| September 15, 2011 Feeding 6 to 8 golf ball size purple potatoes twice a day to a group of obese people with hypertension resulted in a significant drop in blood pressure. This may have been due to specific phytochemicals found in these potatoes or due to the high potassium content common to all types of potatoes. |
| Consumer Link Potatoes Reduce Blood Pressure in People With Obesity and High Blood Pressure |
| Research Link 242nd ACS National Meeting & Exposition, Fall 2011. |
| September 14, 2011 Sodium and chloride, the components of salt, are essential nutrients that were difficult for early humans to obtain. Our enjoyment of the taste of salt is thought to be tied to basic survival drive mechanisms in the brain. |
| Consumer Link Salt Might Be 'Nature's Antidepressant |
| Research Link Physiology & Behavior, 94 (5), p.709-721 |
| September 13, 2011 Simple food choices are actually quite complex. To make a decision to eat a food, the brain juggles multiple factors such as food taste and appearance versus perceived health attributes. The good news is that when presented with health cues, research subjects did tend to make more healthful food choices. |
| Consumer Link Think Healthy, Eat Healthy: Scientists Show Link Between Attention and Self-Control |
| Research Link Journal of Neuroscience, 2011; 31 (30): 11077 |
| September 12, 2011 How a woman eats during pregnancy may influence the risk of her infant developing food allergies. According to a study on pigs, when a mother's diet contains adequate amounts of omega-3 fatty acids such as those found in fish oils, the baby's gut develops better, making the baby less likely to suffer from allergies. |
| Consumer Link Mother's diet influences baby's allergies -- new research |
| Research Link J Physiol. 2011 Sep 1;589(Pt 17):4341-52. |
| September 11, 2011 "Timing is everything" can certainly apply to pregnant women. Research on a group of about 500 infants with likely milk or egg allergy found that the infants also were more likely to have signs of peanut allergy when their mothers had consumed peanuts during pregnancy. |
| Consumer Link Pregnant women who eat peanuts may put infants at increased risk for peanut allergy |
| Research Link J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2010 Dec;126(6):1191-7. |
| September 10, 2011 Moderate alcohol consumption is generally defined as one drink per day for a woman. Recent analysis of data from the U.S. Nurses Health Study found that women who consumed alcohol moderately on 5 to 7 days a week were more likely to have good overall health status as they aged than women who did not drink at all or who drank only a couple of times a week. |
| Consumer Link One Drink a Day May Be Related to Good Overall Health in Women When Older, Study Suggests |
| Research Link PLoS Medicine, 2011; 8 (9): e1001090 |
| September 9, 2011 It is well known that excess body fat increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. A 25-year study that followed over 8000 people from their teen/young adult years into middle age found that the best predictor of developing diabetes was how long a person carried excess body weight. |
| Consumer Link How much, how long person is overweight may decide diabetes risk |
| Research Link Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. September 2011 [ePub Ahead of Print] |
| September 8, 2011 A recent study found that men and women over 50 with healthy habits (staying physically active, eating healthfully, and not smoking or drinking excessively) had a significantly reduced risk of developing diabetes even if they were overweight and had a family history of diabetes. |
| Consumer Link Many lifestyle factors linked to diabetes risk |
| Research Link Ann Intern Med. 2011;155(5):292-299. |
| September 7, 2011 Thickness of dairy foods, like yogurts and custards, appears to be an important factor in determining satiety. A recent study found that even the flavor of the food had little effect on perceived satiety when compared to the thickness of the food. |
| Consumer Link Texture not flavour determine satiety, says study |
| Research Link Appetite. 2011 Aug 17. [Epub ahead of print] |
| September 6, 2011 When athletes drink too much fluid during endurance events, it increases their risk of developing low blood sodium levels (hyponatremia) that can become life threatening. According to a recent survey, many endurance athletes may be drinking excessive amounts of fluid during events. |
| Consumer Link Nearly Half of Runners May Be Drinking Too Much During Races |
| Research Link Br J Sports Med. 2011 Jun;45(8):646-9. Epub 2010 Sep 28. |
| September 5, 2011 Low intake of magnesium is common in U.S. diets. Since low magnesium intake can contribute to many chronic ailments, the daily diet should include high magnesium foods such as green vegetables, nuts, beans, milk products and whole grains. |
| Consumer Link Brown rice can provide vital magnesium |
| Research Link Magnes Res. 2008 Jun;21(2):77-82. |
| September 4, 2011 Weight loss requires focus and consistency. A recent study found that overweight adults who read food labels and participate consistently in exercise are more likely to be successful at losing weight. |
| Consumer Link Reading Food Labels, Combined With Exercise, Can Lead to Weight Loss, Study Finds |
| Research Link Journal of Consumer Affairs, Volume 44, Issue 3, pages 516–527, Fall 2010 |
| September 3, 2011 The "post-exercise calorie burn" appears to be most significant after vigorous exercise. In a new study, men who exercised for 45 minutes at a relatively high intensity expended an additional 190 calories on average during the 14 hours following the exercise. |
| Consumer Link Vigorous exercise burns calories 14 hours after workout |
| Research Link Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise: Sept 2011, V43 Issue 9 - pp 1643-1648 |
| September 2, 2011 Curcumin, a key component of turmeric, has been recommended as a "natural" medicine to treat inflammatory conditions. Using a cell culture model of human tendon inflammation, a new study has found biochemical mechanisms that support the potential efficacy of curcumin in treating arthritis and a range of rheumatic diseases. |
| Consumer Link Curry Spice Could Offer Treatment Hope for Tendinitis |
| Research Link J Biol Chem. 2011 Aug 12;286(32):28556-66. Epub 2011 Jun 13. |
| September 1, 2011 Vitamin C supplementation of 200 mg per day was found to improve lung function in asthmatic children by about 30 percent compared to children receiving a placebo pill. The likelihood of vitamin C supplementation to have this benefit likely depends on the initial vitamin C status of the child. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin C May Be Beneficial for Asthmatic Children, Study Suggests |
| Research Link Clinical and Translational Allergy 2011, 1:9. |
| August 31, 2011 Among 90 women participating in a 16-week diet and exercise weight loss program, those who consumed a diet higher in protein and milk products lost more fat than those consuming lower protein diets. This study confirms the well known need to increase protein intake when energy intake is reduced for weight loss. |
| Consumer Link Foods Rich in Protein, Dairy Products Help Dieters Preserve Muscle and Lose Belly Fat |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2011 Sep;141(9):1626-34. |
| August 30, 2011 Pregnant women who exercise at least 30 minutes three times a week had fetuses with lower heart rates during the final weeks of development. This sign of heart health persists in the infant during its first month of life and possibly longer. |
| Consumer Link Labor of Love: Physically Active Moms-To-Be Give Babies a Head Start On Heart Health |
| Research Link FASEB J. April 2010 24 (Meeting Abstract Supplement) 629.7 |
| August 29, 2011 Older people generally lose lean muscle mass with age. Dieting for weight loss can greatly accelerate this muscle loss. When weight loss is necessary, combining appropriate exercise with dieting helps to prevent muscle loss. |
| Consumer Link Older People Who Diet Without Exercising Lose Valuable Muscle Mass |
| Research Link J Appl Physiol. 2008 Sep;105(3):825-31. |
| August 28, 2011 Present research indicates that a diet rich in the omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) helps to reduce brain damage from ischemic strokes and enhance recovery. Fatty fish and special algae oils available in supplement form are excellent sources of DHA. |
| Consumer Link Omega-3s Reduce Stroke Severity, Study Suggests |
| Research Link Stroke. 2011 Aug 18. [Epub ahead of print] |
| August 27, 2011 Researchers at the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) developed a web-based application for modeling weight loss progress. Intended for researchers and clinicians, the tool helps to set reasonable plans for diet and exercise that can achieve and maintain healthy weight. |
| Consumer Link Mathematical Model Predicts Weight With Varying Diet, Exercise Changes |
| Research Link NIDDK Body Weight Simulator |
| August 26, 2011 Increasing consumption of foods like oatmeal and beans along with a reduced saturated fat diet has been shown to lower total blood cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. |
| Consumer Link Sat fat reductions not as effective for cholesterol reduction suggests study |
| Research Link JAMA. 2011 Aug 24;306(8):831-9. |
| August 25, 2011 Recent research has shown that the oil from the herb Coriander may help to prevent food-borne illnesses and even treat antibiotic-resistant infections. |
| Consumer Link Coriander Oil Could Tackle Food Poisoning and Drug-Resistant Infections |
| Research Link J Med Microbiol, August 23, 2011 Epub ahead of print |
| August 24, 2011 Vitamin D, commonly known to benefit bone health, is proving to be involved in many body functions. Recently, researchers reported that adequate vitamin D helps to protect against colon cancer. |
| Consumer Link Confirmation That Vitamin D Acts as a Protective Agent Against the Advance of Colon Cancer |
| Research Link PLoS ONE, 2011; 6 (8): e23524 |
| August 23, 2011 A study of over 35,000 Danish women found that taking multivitamin/mineral supplements before and after conception significantly reduced the risk of having a small-for-gestational-age (low birth weight) baby. |
| Consumer Link Multivitamins Could Prevent Pregnancy Complications |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2011 Jul 27. [Epub ahead of print] |
| August 22, 2011 Several studies have found that consuming a protein-containing food or beverage shortly after strength training helps support muscle protein synthesis. A recent study supported this and found that 25 grams of whey protein consumed all at once following exercise was better than consuming it gradually over a 3-hour post-exercise period. |
| Consumer Link Muscle-Building Effect of Protein Beverages for Athletes Investigated |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2011 Jul 27. [Epub ahead of print] |
| August 21, 2011 One small way to increase variety in your diet is to include multigrain products. Researchers in India report that combining flour from inexpensive finger millet with wheat flour worked well in bakery products and even improved their nutrient composition. |
| Consumer Link Finger millet flour may boost bakery nutrition: Study |
| Research Link Journal of Texture Studies online 27 JUN 2011 [ahead of print] |
| August 20, 2011 U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that added sugars not exceed 25 percent of total calorie needs. A recent study, however, questions this recommendation because it found that increasing dietary sugar to this level for two weeks resulted in a significant increase in blood components associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk. |
| Consumer Link Upper limit for sugar intake may be too high suggests study |
| Research Link J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2011 Aug 17. [Epub ahead of print] |
| August 19, 2011 The alcohol in alcoholic beverages provides about 7 calories per gram, but only heavy drinking seems to be associated with weight gain. Light to moderate drinking is not linked to weight gain. |
| Consumer Link Does moderate alcohol consumption increase body weight? |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2011 Aug;69(8):419-31. |
| August 18, 2011 The protein called gluten is what gives bread its springy and chewy texture. To make gluten-free bread products for those with gluten allergies, food scientists are finding that egg white protein can be a good substitute for gluten in some baked products. |
| Consumer Link Egg whites show gluten-free product potential: Study |
| Research Link Food Chemistry 129(1)Nov 2011, P84-91. |
| August 17, 2011 A body mass index (BMI) value of 30 is classified as obese. However, new research emphasizes the importance of accounting for coexisting risk factors such as abnormal values for blood pressure, serum lipids, and fasting glucose, as well as physical limitations, and psychopathology before a high BMI is considered to be a medical problem needing treatment. |
| Consumer Link Setting The Stage For Obesity Staging |
| Research Link Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2011 Aug 14. [Epub ahead of print] |
| August 16, 2011 Obesity appears to impair iron status by raising the levels of a hormone called hepcidin. This hormone reduces the body's absorption of iron from the diet. |
| Consumer Link Obesity may influence blood iron levels |
| Research Link Obesity (2010) 18 7, 1449–1456. |
| August 15, 2011 Maintaining lifelong bone health requires adequate calcium, vitamin D, and several other nutrients. However, the amount of calcium needed for bone health continues to be controversial. A recent Swedish study indicated that calcium intake exceeding 800 mg a day provided no additional benefit to bone health. |
| Consumer Link Advice on calcium varies with global dietary customs |
| Research Link BMJ. 2011 May 24;342:d1473. |
| August 14, 2011 Soybeans and soy products are nutritious components of a varied diet. However, claims that soy isoflanoves (estrogen-like compounds in soy) benefit bone health and reduce menopause symptoms were not supported by a 2-year double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 45- to 60-year old women. Interestingly, the women taking 200 mg/day of isoflavones had more hot flashes than the placebo group. |
| Consumer Link Soy no help for bone loss, hot flashes |
| Research Link Arch Intern Med. 2011 Aug 8;171(15):1363-9. |
| August 13, 2011 Want to have a child who is not a picky eater? Keep in mind that what a mother eats during pregnancy and breastfeeding passes food flavors along to the fetus and infant and appears to ultimately affect the flavor preferences of the child. |
| Consumer Link Influence Your Child's Palate Before Birth |
| Research Link J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 2009 Mar;48 Suppl 1:S25-30. |
| August 12, 2011 While consuming a 1400 calorie diet to lose weight, postmenopausal women lost more weight, more fat, and less muscle when they consumed 25 grams of whey protein twice a day. |
| Consumer Link Eating Protein Throughout the Day Preserves Muscle and Physical Function in Dieting Postmenopausal Women, Study Suggests |
| Research Link J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 2011 Jul 27. |
| August 11, 2011 Like spicy food? A spice blend that included cinnamon, oregano, turmeric, and other spices was recently shown to reduce insulin and triglyceride levels following a 1200 calorie meal. |
| Consumer Link Antioxidant spices, like turmeric and cinnamon, reduce negative effects of high-fat meal |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2011 Aug;141(8):1451-7. |
| August 10, 2011 For those with celiac disease and less severe forms of gluten sensitivity, avoidance of offending foods can be very challenging. A recent study confirmed that the grains tef and millet, along with amaranth and quinoa (not true grains) are gluten-free options. |
| Consumer Link Millet, Amaranth, and Quinoa deemed gluten free: Study |
| Research Link Mol Nutr Food Res. 2011 Aug;55(8):1266-70. |
| August 9, 2011 In a telephone survey of 1500 women in Montreal, researchers found that 5 percent of the women met the criteria for some type of eating disorder. In addition, 15 percent of the women were identified as having disordered eating - sometimes considered a "pre-eating disorder" type of condition. |
| Consumer Link Disordered Eating May Affect 10 to 15 Percent of Women |
| Research Link Int J Eat Disord. 2009 Mar;42(2):158-65. |
| August 8, 2011 When pregnant women took an omega-3 fatty acid supplement (400 mg a day of DHA from an algal source) during the last half of pregnancy, their infants were less likely to catch a cold and had a shorter duration of symptoms if they did catch a cold. |
| Consumer Link Prenatal Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements May Cut Babies' Colds |
| Research Link Pediatrics. 2011 Aug 1. [Epub ahead of print] |
| August 7, 2011 When the concern for healthful eating becomes excessive, it can develop into a psychological condition called orthorexia nervosa. This normally positive concern for health, taken to the extreme, can adversely affect normal socialization and can even harm health. |
| Consumer Link Orthorexia — When eating healthy goes awry |
| Research Link Eat Weight Disord. 2004 Jun;9(2):151-7. |
| August 6, 2011 A new study conducted in the United Kingdom confirmed previous research that women with eating disorders have more difficulty conceiving. Also interesting, these women are more likely to have unplanned pregnancies than women who eat normally. |
| Consumer Link Eating Disorders Can Harm Women's Fertility |
| Research Link BJOG. 2011 Aug 3. [Epub ahead of print] |
| August 5, 2011 Do you need to lift heavy weights to build muscle? New research says no. The study found that lifting lighter weights for enough repetitions to reach your limit is effective at building muscle mass. |
| Consumer Link Building Muscle Doesn't Require Lifting Heavy Weights, Study Shows |
| Research Link PLoS ONE, 2010; 5 (8): e12033. |
| August 4, 2011 Researchers followed 2818 people who were mostly vegetarians over a 26 year time-span. During that time, 441 of them developed colon or rectal polyps (commonly become cancerous). The foods most closely associated with a lower risk of developing colorectal polyps in this group of people were cooked green vegetables, dried fruit, legumes, and brown rice. |
| Consumer Link Legumes, Cooked Green Vegetables, Dried Fruit, and Brown Rice Associated With Fewer Colon Polyps |
| Research Link Nutr Cancer. 2011 May;63(4):565-72. |
| August 3, 2011 Dosage generally applies to drugs or supplements, but it is time to think of exercise in a similar way. Ongoing research finding suggest that a dose of just 30 min a day on five days a week can significantly reduce heart disease risk. |
| Consumer Link Little Exercise Beats None |
| Research Link Circulation. August 1, 2011 [Epub ahead of print] |
| August 2, 2011 Periodontal disease can be a complication of diabetes. New research indicates that dentists can spot the signs of undiagnosed diabetes or pre-diabetes and refer their patients for appropriate follow-up with a physician. |
| Consumer Link Dentists May Be Able to Spot Undiagnosed Diabetes |
| Research Link J Dent Res. 2011 Jul;90(7):855-60. |
| August 1, 2011 No big news: On average, Americans do not eat the recommended amount of vegetables. Surveys have reported that people who garden eat more vegetables. However, their reasons for gardening are unrelated to the amount of vegetables they consume. |
| Consumer Link Gardening Linked to Increased Vegetable Consumption in Older Adults |
| Research Link HortTechnology. 2010;20:711-717. |
| July 31, 2011 Body weight and body mass index are not always good predictors of cardiovascular disease and diabetes risk. Some racial groups such as South Asians tend to accumulate internal abdominal fat (visceral) and may have increased risk without excess body weight. |
| Consumer Link Packing on pounds riskier for South Asians, say McMaster researchers |
| Research Link PLoS ONE, 2011; 6 (7): e22112 |
| July 30, 2011 Asthma can develop in most anyone, but it appears to be more common in obese individuals and more common in women than men. Finding the reasons for these differences may lead to a better understanding of what causes asthma. |
| Consumer Link Are asthma and weight linked? |
| Research Link Int J Obes (Lond). 2006 Jul;30(7):1111-8. |
| July 29, 2011 Muscle cells are insulin sensitive and can take up, utilize, and store glucose. Consequently, it makes sense that having more muscle mass as well as using muscles can improve the body's ability to handle blood sugar. |
| Consumer Link Increased Muscle Mass May Lower Risk of Pre-Diabetes: Study Shows Building Muscle Can Lower Person's Risk of Insulin Resistance |
| Research Link J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2011 Jul 21. [Epub ahead of print] |
| July 28, 2011 If your mother said you should stay out of the water after eating, she may have been right. Japanese researchers found that about 80 percent of those who died from accidental drowning had food in their stomach compared to 43 percent of those who died from suicidal drowning. |
| Consumer Link Eating Before Swimming May Be Dangerous, After All |
| Research Link Med Sci Law. July 2011 [Epub ahead of print] |
| July 27, 2011 A recent study found that when the same food was served daily to women, they consumed less calories as they became habituated to the food . . . the Boredom Diet anyone? Unfortunately this diet would clash with one of the basic tenets of healthful eating - consuming a wide variety of foods. |
| Consumer Link Manage Your Weight With a Boring Diet? |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2011 Aug;94(2):371-6. |
| July 26, 2011 Can't get your kids to eat vegetables? Researchers found that by incorporating pureed vegetables into several standard recipes, they were able to nearly double vegetable intake and the children naturally consumed 11 percents less calories. |
| Consumer Link Hiding Vegetables in Kids' Foods Can Increase Vegetable Intake |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2011 Jul 20. [Epub ahead of print] |
| July 25, 2011 When undernutrition occurs during the first few years of life, it can have life-long impacts. Early malnutrition can adversely affect things like growth, learning, and insulin sensitivity in later childhood and the adult years of life. |
| Consumer Link Impact of Malnutrition |
| Research Link Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2011 Jun;8(6):1817-46. |
| July 24, 2011 A study of over 9000 adolescents in China found that overweight teens consumed vegetables and fruits more frequently, and sweets, snacks, and fast foods less frequently than those who were not overweight. Why? The extra weight likely was due to the most common forms of vegetable preparation: deep-fried and stir-fried with vegetable oils. |
| Consumer Link Healthy eating habits making Chinese youth overweight |
| Research Link American Journal of Health Behavior, Volume 35, Number 4, July 2011, pp. 496-506(11) |
| July 23, 2011 Seaweeds represent a widely under-utilized food and source of beneficial food ingredients. As rich sources of polyphenols among other compounds, seaweed components can both enhance food safety and provide healthful antioxidants. |
| Consumer Link Seaweed ingredients may improve quality and safety of foods: Review |
| Research Link Asian Pac J Trop Med. 2011 Mar;4(3):205-11. Epub 2011 Apr 12. |
| July 22, 2011 The calorie amounts provided with restaurant foods should be considered to be rough estimates. Culinary measurements of ingredients, preparation techniques, and variability in the composition of ingredients all add to the error. |
| Consumer Link Restaurant calorie counts not always accurate |
| Research Link JAMA 2010 306(3):237-330. |
| July 21, 2011 Clearly, losing weight is not "all in your head." But some of it may be. Researchers found that helping overweight women feel better about their body image significantly enhanced weight loss during a one-year weight loss program. |
| Consumer Link 'Love Your Body' to Lose Weight |
| Research Link Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2011, 8:75 (18 July 2011) |
| July 20, 2011 Depression can be caused by many things. One nutritional factor that may contribute to depression in some people is a low intake of the types of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish. |
| Consumer Link Omega-3 Fatty Acids Affect Risk of Depression, Inflammation |
| Research Link Psychosom Med. 2007 Apr;69(3):217-24. Epub 2007 Mar 30. |
| July 19, 2011 It is commonly thought that all of the protein in eggs is contained in the egg white. In fact, about 40 percent of the protein is in the yolk (along with many other essential nutrients). |
| Consumer Link Common nutrition beliefs are merely urban myths |
| Research Link USDA Nutrient Data Laboratory |
| July 18, 2011 Current recommendations for a very low salt diet have been challenged by some researchers. Among the many issues related to inadequate salt in the diet is that insulin resistance can develop and cause increased blood glucose. |
| Consumer Link Low sodium intake targets shortchange vital nutrient |
| Research Link Metabolism. 2011 Jul;60(7):965-8. |
| July 17, 2011 After puberty, meeting nutritional needs can be more challenging for girls than it is for boys due to increasing iron requirements. In many cultures, however, during times of food insecurity, boys commonly get preferential treatment and maintain better nutritional status. |
| Consumer Link Parents Give Boys Preferential Treatment When There Is a Chronic Food Shortage |
| Research Link Pediatrics. 2011 Feb;127(2):e398-405. |
| July 16, 2011 Substantial evidence is accumulating that compromised nutrition during pregnancy can have life-long effects on the offspring. For example, when pregnant mice were fed a low protein diet, their offspring produced lower than normal levels of the hormone leptin, potentially increasing the risk of metabolic syndrome. |
| Consumer Link Maternal Nutrition: What Impact Does It Have On Gene Expression? |
| Research Link FASEB J. 2011 Jun 15. [Epub ahead of print] |
| July 15, 2011 It is difficult to drink too much water, but it is possible. The Institute of Medicine points out that the maximal adult kidney excretion rate is 0.7 to 1.0 liters of water per hour. Unless the rate of sweat loss is substantial, consuming water at or above this rate could be harmful and even deadly. |
| Consumer Link Waterlogged America: Do We Drink Too Much? |
| Research Link Institute of Medicine, Dietary Reference Intakes for Water |
| July 14, 2011 Research has shown that consuming a low-calorie soup prior to the lunch entree can help to reduced total calories consumed at that meal in both adults and children. |
| Consumer Link Eating Soup Will Help Cut Calories At Meals |
| Research Link Appetite. 2011 Aug;57(1):213-9. Epub 2011 May 8. |
| July 13, 2011 The condition called panic disorder can be very debilitating. Triggered my extreme anxiety, the condition can cause symptoms that range from chest pains and shortness of breath to dizziness and trembling. Engaging in high levels of daily physical activity can significantly lessen panic sensations among victims of panic disorder. |
| Consumer Link Study: People at risk for panic buffered from stressor by high levels of physical activity |
| Research Link Psychosom Med. 2011 Jul;73(6):498-503. |
| July 12, 2011 If you need a good reason to make exercise and a healthful diet part of your lifestyle, recent research indicates that doing the opposite is strongly associated with sexual dysfunction. |
| Consumer Link Unhealthy Lifestyle Is Associated With Sexual Dysfunction |
| Research Link J Sex Med. 2011 May 13. [Epub ahead of print] |
| July 11, 2011 Most everyone who has been overweight, lost weight, and attempted to keep it off has found that it is virtually impossible to not regain the weight. A recent study on the food intake control brain center of rats found that high levels of body fat (due to a high fat diet) were associated with ‘micro-scarring’ of neurons that appeared to up-regulate satiety mechanisms to maintain the higher level of body fat. |
| Consumer Link Does Neuronal Scarring Determine the Body Weight Set Point? |
| Research Link Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2010 Aug 17;107(33):14875-80. |
| July 10, 2011 Genetic predisposition is a major determinant of the risk of developing vision loss due to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). However, a study of identical twins found that siblings who smoked and/or had diets low in vitamin D, betaine, and methionine had a greater risk of developing AMD. Good sources of betaine include beets, spinach, and quinoa. Methionine is high in eggs and most high protein animal foods. |
| Consumer Link Twin Study Shows Lifestyle, Diet Can Significantly Influence Course of Macular Degeneration |
| Research Link Ophthalmology. 2011 Jul;118(7):1386-94. Epub 2011 May 28 |
| July 9, 2011 No big surprise . . . a large study reports that a "healthy lifestyle" is associated with a low risk of sudden cardiac death in women. But what is interesting is that the lifestyle factors associated with the greatest risk reduction were never smoking and exercising at least 6 hours a week. It also helped to eat a wholesome and varied diet and to not be too heavy or too thin. |
| Consumer Link Healthy Lifestyle Associated With Low Risk of Sudden Cardiac Death in Women |
| Research Link The Journal of the American Medical Association, 2011; 306 (1): 62 |
| July 8, 2011 Sodium and chloride, the components of common salt, are essential nutrients for the human body. Like many other nutrients, it is possible to consume too much of them. However, how much is too much salt is not as clear as many would like to think according to a recent extensive review of the subject. |
| Consumer Link Salt reductions may not reduce heart disease risk: Cochrane review |
| Research Link Am J Hypertens. 2011 Jul 6. [Epub ahead of print] |
| July 7, 2011 Over time, excess consumption of fat and sugar have been found to lead to increased rates of cell death in organs like the liver and kidneys. This is thought to be a key factor in the development of conditions like type 2 diabetes. New research is finding that 3 specific small RNA molecules increase in the lipid overload condition and cause cell death. |
| Consumer Link Surprising Culprits Behind Cell Death from Fat and Sugar Overload |
| Research Link Cell Metab. 2011 Jul 6;14(1):33-44. |
| July 6, 2011 Vitamin E is naturally present in foods in two major forms - tochopherols and tocotrienols. Supplementation of stroke-prone mice with the lesser known tocotrienol form was found to help prevent the brain cell death that normally occurs after a stroke. |
| Consumer Link 'Gifted' Natural Vitamin E Tocotrienol Protects Brain Against Stroke in Three Ways |
| Research Link Stroke. 2011 Jun 30. [Epub ahead of print] |
| July 5, 2011 Fat tissue that accumulates around the internal organs is called visceral fat and is associated with greater chronic disease risk. It is not known why, but eating more foods high in soluble fiber (like beans, peas, oats, and apples) and exercising regularly helps to reduce this internal belly fat. |
| Consumer Link Soluble Fiber Strikes a Blow to Belly Fat |
| Research Link Obesity (Silver Spring). 2011 Jun 16. [Epub ahead of print] |
| July 4, 2011 Food allergies are caused by an immune response to a normally harmless food protein. In some cases, cooking a food can change the chemical structure of the allergenic protein so that the cooked food does not cause an allergic response in an individual who is allergic to the raw food. Researchers have used cooked milk in foods to help children gradually decrease their milk allergy sensitivity. |
| Consumer Link Foods With Baked Milk May Help Build Tolerance in Children With Dairy Allergies, Study Suggests |
| Research Link J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2011 May 20. [Epub ahead of print] |
| July 3, 2011 One of the major components of most kidney stones is calcium. Interestingly, consuming a diet low in food sources of calcium has been found to increase the risk of developing kidney stones. In contrast, women taking calcium supplements were more likely to get kidney stones. |
| Consumer Link Can calcium supplements cause kidney stones? |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2011 Jul;94(1):5-6. |
| July 2, 2011 A recent study found that type 2 (adult onset) diabetes is essentially cured by 8 weeks of consuming only 600 calories per day. This, of course, causes rapid weight loss and many associated metabolic changes. The problem, however, is that many other studies indicate that about 95% of people who lose weight this rapidly will regain all their weight, and then some in a fairly short period of time. |
| Consumer Link Low calorie diet may reverse diabetes: Study |
| Research Link Diabetologia [online ahead of print], doi: 10.1007/s00125-011-2204-7 |
| July 1, 2011 For over two decades, public health advice has recommended reducing foods high in saturated fatty acids to reduce the risk of heart disease. Accumulating research does not support this focus on saturated fats but rather encourages a "well-rounded" diet that is not excessively high in overall fat, carbohydrate, or protein. |
| Consumer Link Is saturated fat really the dietary bogeyman? |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2010 Mar;91(3):535-46. |
| June 30, 2011 Like many fruits, strawberries contain flavanoids thought to benefit health. Based on animal studies, a specific polyphenolic flavanoid in strawberries, called fisetin, has been found to reduce many of the adverse consequences of diabetes. |
| Consumer Link It's Not an Apple a Day After All -- It's Strawberries |
| Research Link PLoS ONE, 2011; 6 (6): e21226 |
| June 29, 2011 The declining populations of bees and other pollinators could have substantial nutritional consequences for humans. For example, the vast majority of food sources of vitamin C come from plants that require pollination. |
| Consumer Link Pollinators Make Critical Contribution to Healthy Diets |
| Research Link PLoS ONE, 2011; 6 (6): e21363. |
| June 28, 2011 Vitamin B-12 deficiency often goes undiagnosed and can cause irreversible damage to the nervous system, including the brain. New research provides evidence that it may be possible to develop a relatively simple breath test to accurately assess vitamin B-12 status. |
| Consumer Link A Breath of Fresh Air for Detecting Vitamin B12 Deficiency |
| Research Link J Breath Res. 2011 Jun 23;5(4):046001. |
| June 27, 2011 Most Americans do not consume recommended levels of magnesium. Although the health consequences of this are unclear, taking 170 mg magnesium supplementation twice a day has been found to improve lung function and quality of life in people with asthma. |
| Consumer Link Obesity and magnesium deficiency may increase asthma symptoms |
| Research Link Journal of Asthma, 47:83–92, 2010 |
| June 26, 2011 Some research has reported that stretching before exercise can impair performance. A recent review of this topic concluded that if the duration of static stretching of a muscle group is less than 60 seconds, subsequent performance is not affected by stretching. |
| Consumer Link To Stretch or Not to Stretch |
| Research Link Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2011 Jun 8. [Epub ahead of print] |
| June 25, 2011 The competitive drive and desire to manage body weight often pulls athletes into eating habits that limit key foods and can lead to serious nutrient deficiencies and eating disorders. The National Athletic Trainers Association released a position statement that provides rational weight management guidelines that are designed to support health and optimal athletic performance. |
| Consumer Link Athletic trainers stress safe weight loss methods |
| Research Link J Athl Train. 2011;46(3):322-36. |
| June 24, 2011 Including a variety of colorful fruits in the daily diet is commonly recommended for good health. As a food group, fruits contain a wide variety of antioxidant compounds. A recent study found that daily consumption of strawberries enhanced the ability of red blood cells to handle oxidative stress. |
| Consumer Link Strawberries Boost Red Blood Cells, Study Finds |
| Research Link Food Chemistry Volume 128, Issue 1, 1 September 2011, Pages 180-186 |
| June 23, 2011 Recent research shows that food products made with fat substitute ingredients designed to mimic high fat food characteristics may actually interfere with normal satiety mechanisms. The end result showed that rats actually gained weight when offered low-calorie potato chips made with fat substitutes. |
| Consumer Link Fat Substitutes Linked to Weight Gain: Rats On High-Fat Diet Gained More Weight After Eating Low-Calorie Potato Chips Made With Fat Substitutes |
| Research Link Behavioral Neuroscience, 2011; 125 (4) |
| June 22, 2011 A study of 237 children age 8 to 18 found that both black and white children with low vitamin D status had greater amounts of body fat than children with normal vitamin D status. Since vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin, it makes sense that high body fat could increase vitamin D needs. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin D Deficiency Is Associated With Different Types of Obesity in Black and White Children |
| Research Link J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2011 May;96(5):1560-7. |
| June 21, 2011 Often it is assumed that fast food restaurants in a neighborhood contribute to increased body weight and obesity. A recent study, however, found that the body weight of high school students was not associated with the presence of fast food restaurants near the schools. Clearly, many other factors play a role. |
| Consumer Link Fast Food Restaurants Have No Impact On High School Students' Weight, Maine Study Finds |
| Research Link J Nutr Educ Behav. 2011 Jul-Aug;43(4):274-278. |
| June 20, 2011 Using reusable shopping bags is a great way to cut back on wasteful use of plastic bags. But, keep in mind that these bags can harbor disease-causing microorganisms and should be washed on a regular schedule. |
| Consumer Link Clean those reusable shopping bags |
| Research Link Health Canada Advisories |
| June 19, 2011 ConsumerLab.com recently compared the labeled amounts of nutrients in multivitamin and multimineral supplements to the chemically analyzed amounts. Among products designed for adults, children, and pets, more than 30 percent of the products had problems. |
| Consumer Link Many multivitamins don't have nutrients claimed in label |
| Research Link ConsumerLab.com Multivitamin and Multimineral Supplements Review |
| June 18, 2011 Although alcohol is the most commonly consumed drug in the world, we are only beginning to understand the chemical details of how it affects the brain. Like most other mind altering drugs, alcohol appears to bind to specific proteins in the brain. Knowledge of these molecular details may lead to new treatments for alcoholism. |
| Consumer Link Understanding Alcohol's Damaging Effects on the Brain |
| Research Link Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research, 2011; DOI: 10.1111/j.1530-0277.2011.01502.x |
| June 17, 2011 Depression during and after pregnancy occurs in about one out of ten women. A new study reports that women who experience this peri-pregnancy depression are much more likely to have histories of eating disorders. Could nutrient deficiencies due to the eating disorders be related? |
| Consumer Link Pregnancy-related depression linked to eating disorders and abuse histories |
| Research Link J Womens Health (Larchmt). 2011 Jun;20(6):863-70. |
| June 16, 2011 Amid the high vs low carbohydrate diet debates, a recent mouse study reported that a low carb diet greatly reduced the risk of cancer development. What's best for humans may depend on many factors including the amount and type of physical activity a person has. High intensity and long duration exercise utilize large amounts of carbohydrate. For couch potatoes, a low carb diet may prove to be best. Stay tuned. |
| Consumer Link Low-Carbohydrate, High-Protein Diets May Reduce Both Tumor Growth Rates and Cancer Risk |
| Research Link Cancer Res June 14, 2011 ; Published OnlineFirst June 14, 2011; doi:10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-10-3973 |
| June 15, 2011 With the increased use of vegetable oils that started about 75 years ago, omega-6 fatty acid intake has almost tripled. High intake of these fatty acids is related to increased production of pro-inflammatory messengers in the body that increase the risk for various chronic diseases. Those with African ancestry appear to have a greater propensity for converting omega-6 fatty acids into these inflammatory messenger molecules. |
| Consumer Link Ancestry Plays Vital Role in Nutrition and Disease, Study Shows |
| Research Link BMC Genet. 2011 May 20;12(1):50. [Epub ahead of print] |
| June 14, 2011 A new study provides more evidence that poor maternal nutrition during pregnancy and lactation can have a major impact on the adult health of their offspring. When baboon mothers were fed a diet reduced to70 percent of normal while pregnant and nursing, their children developed insulin resistance as adults along with a predisposition to develop type 2 diabetes. |
| Consumer Link Undernourishment in Pregnant, Lactating Females Found Key to Next Generation's Disease |
| Research Link Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol. 2011 Jun 8. [Epub ahead of print] |
| June 13, 2011 It is commonly assumed that mothers have the greatest influence on the food preferences of their children. However, new research indicates that fathers may have even greater influence on the food choices of their children. |
| Consumer Link Children eschew the fat if dads aren't lenient |
| Research Link J Nutr Educ Behav. 2011 May-Jun;43(3):142-9. |
| June 12, 2011 A mother's nutrition during pregnancy can have life-long effects on the health of her young. Based on a recent study with mice, a mild deficiency of the B vitamins folate, B-2, B-6, and B-12 in the diet of the mother can greatly increase the risk of colorectal cancer in her offspring. |
| Consumer Link B Vitamins in Mother's Diet Reduce Colorectal Cancer Risk in Offspring, Animal Study Suggests |
| Research Link FASEB J. 2011 Jun 6. [Epub ahead of print] |
| June 11, 2011 It has been suggested that the greater intake of phytoestrogens such as isoflavones and lignans by women in Asian countries may reduce postmenopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and sweating. However, a well-controlled study found that high intake of lignans from flax seeds had no effect on these postmenopausal symptoms. |
| Consumer Link Mayo Clinic: Flaxseed no cure for hot flashes during breast cancer or menopause |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2010 Feb;140(2):293-7. |
| June 10, 2011 Almost ten times as many people are infected by the hepatitis C virus compared to the AIDS virus. Although no reliable treatment currently exists for hepatitis C, coffee consumption has been reported to slow the progression of the disease and to improve the response to current standard treatment. |
| Consumer Link Coffee Drinking Improves Hepatitis C Treatment Response, Study Suggests |
| Research Link Gastroenterology. 2011 Jun;140(7):1961-9. |
| June 9, 2011 Research using brain imaging technology provides an explanation for why obesity seems to be a self-perpetuating condition. Women who gained weight over a 6 month period had a weakened response in their brain reward circuitry when they consumed a palatable food. This likely increases the drive to overeat. |
| Consumer Link Research Examines Vicious Cycle of Overeating and Obesity |
| Research Link J Neurosci. 2010 Sep 29;30(39):13105-9. |
| June 8, 2011 Osteoporosis often is treated with bisphosphonate drugs such as Fosamax, Boniva, and Actonel. These drugs work best when combined with adequate intake of vitamin D and calcium. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin D levels should be higher in people taking certain osteoporosis drugs, experts say |
| Research Link Calcif Tissue Int. 2011 Jun;88(6):485-94. |
| June 7, 2011 A recent Boston study indicated that those consuming a vegan diet had low levels of urinary iodine, indicating a low dietary iodine intake. Low iodine status in a woman is especially risky for her developing fetus and for her infant during breastfeeding. |
| Consumer Link Vegans may be at risk for low iodine: study |
| Research Link J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2011 May 25. [Epub ahead of print] |
| June 6, 2011 The current E. coli food poisoning cases in Germany now appear to be due to contaminated sprouts. The warm and humid conditions used to grow sprouts are ideal for the growth of a few types of pathogenic bacteria. Food safety experts consider sprouts to be one of the most risky sources of food-borne illness. |
| Consumer Link Deadly E. Coli Outbreak Linked to German Sprouts |
| Research Link Sprouts: What You Should Know - FDA Food Safety |
| June 5, 2011 A study of over 5000 women in Sweden found that calcium intake below 750 milligrams per day was associated with an increased risk of bone fractures. However, increasing calcium intake above 750 to 800 milligrams per day did not provide any further protection against bone fractures. |
| Consumer Link With Calcium, More May Not Be Better |
| Research Link BMJ 2011; 342:d1473 |
| June 4, 2011 Some children with autism have abnormalities in energy metabolism. When these autistic children were given supplements of ribose (a sugar component of ATP) or NADH (a derivative of the vitamin niacin), it normalized some of these abnormalities. |
| Consumer Link Therapies to Improve Biochemical Functions Hold Promise as Treatments for People With Autism |
| Research Link Autism Insights 2011:3 3-13. |
| June 3, 2011 A rarely appreciated function of vitamin C is its antioxidant function in brain cells - especially during the rapid brain development of fetal and early infancy stages of growth. Research on guinea pigs found that a moderate deficiency of dietary vitamin C that did not cause scurvy symptoms did impair brain development and impaired spatial memory. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin C Deficiency Impairs Early Brain Development, Guinea Pig Study Finds |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2009 Sep;90(3):540-6. |
| June 2, 2011 Major intestinal surgery can reduce the absorption of essential nutrients like vitamin A. Based on case studies, it may take years or even decades for the effects of malabsorption to become clinically apparent. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin A Deficiency Linked To Major Intestinal Surgery |
| Research Link Br J Ophthalmol. 2006 August; 90(8): 955–956. |
| June 1, 2011 The human body can survive without optimal nutrition for long periods of time. New research, however, proposes that this survival is at the expense of accelerated aging. The body seems to protect the most immediately essential functions of a limited nutrient at the expense of functions that are of less immediate concern. |
| Consumer Link How Vitamins and Minerals May Prevent Age-Related Diseases |
| Research Link The FASEB Journal June 2011 vol. 25 no. 6 1793-1814 |
| May 31, 2011 Vitamin D status tends to be lower in overweight and obese individuals. New research indicates that significant weight loss can improve vitamin D status. It is not known how body fatness should affect vitamin D status. |
| Consumer Link Losing more than 15 percent of body weight significantly boosts vitamin D levels in overweight women |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2011 May 25. [Epub ahead of print] |
| May 30, 2011 Green tea and red wine are both sources of compounds called polyphenols. The potential benefits of polyphenols depend on the consumer's iron status. When consumed with iron-containing foods, polyphenols strongly inhibit iron absorption. In this case, too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. |
| Consumer Link Polyphenol Antioxidants Inhibit Iron Absorption |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2010 Jun;140(6):1117-21. |
| May 29, 2011 Research on occupational energy expenditure estimates that people now use 120 to 140 fewer calories a day than they did in 1960. Without decreasing food intake by 120 to 140 calories a day, a person would gain about 10 pounds of body fat per year. |
| Consumer Link Workers more obese, burning fewer calories than ever before |
| Research Link PLoS ONE. 2011;6(5):e19657. |
| May 28, 2011 Male fertility can be affected by many things. Normal vitamin D status may be one of these factors. New research from Denmark found that sperm motility was greater for men with normal vitamin D status than for men who had low blood levels of the vitamin. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin D increases speed of sperm cells |
| Research Link Hum Reprod. 2011 Jun;26(6):1307-17. |
| May 27, 2011 A woman's nutrition before and during pregnancy may be a major factor in the risk of having a child with autism. Women who reported taking a daily prenatal vitamin supplement during the 3 months before pregnancy and during the first month of pregnancy had almost half the risk of having a child with autism in comparison with women who did not take a prenatal supplement. |
| Consumer Link Women Who Start Prenatal Vitamins Early Are Less Likely to Have Children With Autism, Study Finds |
| Research Link Epidemiology. 2011 May 23. [Epub ahead of print] |
| May 26, 2011 Would you recognize scurvy if you saw it? This disease is caused by deficient vitamin C intake. Although scurvy is thought of as a disease of historical interest, its incidence seems to be increasing in children who consume very limited diets that lack fruits and vegetables. Common symptoms are bleeding gums, loose teeth, easy bruising, sore joints, and pinpoint blood spots on the skin. |
| Consumer Link Child scurvy cases rising |
| Research Link Pediatrics. 2001 Sep;108(3):E55. |
| May 25, 2011 Errors of fact are now easier than ever to spread around the world via the Internet - even when the original toxic error has been corrected. The correct iron dose for infants 6 months to a year of age should be 11 mg of iron per day NOT 11 mg of iron per kg per day. |
| Consumer Link Harmful data remain on Web despite fix |
| Research Link Pediatrics. 2010 Nov;126(5):1040-50. |
| May 24, 2011 A type of diabetes called gestational diabetes frequently develops in women during the third trimester of pregnancy. Women who gain a significant amount of weight after their first pregnancy are at greater risk of developing gestational diabetes during their second pregnancy. |
| Consumer Link Weight Gain Between First and Second Pregnancies Increases Woman's Gestational Diabetes Risk, Study Finds |
| Research Link Obstetrics & Gynecology 2011;117 ( 6):1323-1330. |
| May 23, 2011 A 14-year study of over 40,000 adult women in the Black Women’s Health Study found that those who had a varied diet with adequate amounts of fruits and vegetables experienced significantly less weight gain than those with more limited dietary variety that lacked significant amounts of fruits and vegetables. |
| Consumer Link Diet high in vegetables and fruit associated with less weight gain in African-American women |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2011 May 18. [Epub ahead of print] |
| May 22, 2011 Research indicates that excessive daytime sleepiness in children is linked with both obesity and asthma. However, it remains unclear why these conditions tend to coexist. |
| Consumer Link Sleepiness in Children Linked to Obesity, Asthma |
| Research Link Sleep. 2011 Apr 1;34(4):503-7. |
| May 21, 2011 During pregnancy, a dangerous condition develops in some women called pre-eclampsia. Characterized by excessively high blood pressure and related problems, this condition can be very dangerous for both mother and fetus. Recent research found that daily consumption of a food bar fortified with the amino acid arginine significantly reduced the incidence of pre-eclampsia. Foods that are rich in arginine include meats, poultry, eggs, nuts, and seeds. |
| Consumer Link Dietary Supplement Can Protect Against Pre-Eclampsia, New Study Suggests |
| Research Link BMJ 2011; 342:d2901 |
| May 20, 2011 We have all heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. If this is true, what foods are best to consume at breakfast? A growing body of research supports consuming a variety of breakfast foods that always include some high protein foods. |
| Consumer Link Eat a Protein-Rich Breakfast to Reduce Food Cravings, Prevent Overeating Later, Researcher Finds |
| Research Link Obesity (Silver Spring). 2011 May 5. [Epub ahead of print] |
| May 19, 2011 How fast can you jog a mile? Research indicates that after middle age, common tests of fitness level can be as good as most other risk factors at predicting the risk of a heart attack or stroke. |
| Consumer Link Simple fitness test could predict long-term risk for heart attack, stroke in middle-aged people |
| Research Link Circulation. 2011 Apr 5;123(13):1377-83. Epub 2011 Mar 21. |
| May 18, 2011 Higher body fat levels have been found to be associated with lower vitamin D status (low plasma 25(OH) vitamin D) in adults. The same relationship also has been observed in 8 to 18 year-old black and white children. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin D deficiency is associated with different types of obesity in black and white children |
| Research Link J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2011 May;96(5):1560-7. |
| May 17, 2011 The ability of the human body to efficiently use carbohydrate for energy and then switch to fat when carbohydrate is not available is shared even by fruit flies. Consequently, studies of the metabolic switches in fruit flies may be leading to better treatments for diabetes and metabolic syndrome. |
| Consumer Link Evolutionary conservation of fat metabolism pathways |
| Research Link Cell. 2011 May 13;145(4):596-606. |
| May 16, 2011 Nutrition during the first two years of life can have life-long effects on health and function later in life. A follow-up study on over 1400 Guatemalan adults (at age 32) found that those who had received an infant supplement providing extra protein and calories scored higher on intellectual tests of reading comprehension and cognitive functioning than those who had received a similar supplement with no protein and less calories. |
| Consumer Link Early-Life Nutrition May Be Associated With Adult Intellectual Functioning |
| Research Link Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2008 Jul;162(7):612-8. |
| May 15, 2011 A decrease in brain size is associated with a decline in mental function in older people. Those with high blood homocysteine levels generally experience a more rapid rate of brain atrophy. Supplementation with the B vitamins folate, B-6, and B-12 has been found to lower blood homocysteine levels and to help prevent the loss of brain mass. |
| Consumer Link Brain Research: Vitamins & Nutrition |
| Research Link PLoS ONE, 2010; 5 (9): e12244 DOI: |
| May 14, 2011 Thirty years ago, a theory was proposed that iron accumulation in the body is a major cause of disease. Although this theory has received wide acceptance, there continues to be little scientific support for it. A new study by Johns Hopkins researchers of over 12,000 adults found no association between mortality and biomarkers for iron storage. |
| Consumer Link Iron level is important to good health |
| Research Link Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis. 2011 Feb 15. [Epub ahead of print] |
| May 13, 2011 Corn comes in many colors besides yellow and white. Some types of orange corn provide beta-carotene, the vitamin A precursor, and have the potential to reduce serious vitamin A deficiency in some parts of the world. Other types of orange corn provide zeaxanthin, a compound needed to help prevent age-related macular degeneration. |
| Consumer Link Orange Corn Holds Promise for Reducing Blindness, Child Death |
| Research Link Nat Genet. 2010 Apr;42(4):322-7. Epub 2010 Mar 21. |
| May 12, 2011 Health benefits due to the components of dark chocolate continue to be confirmed by research. While enjoying dark chocolate, remember that most forms of chocolate are very concentrated sources of calories. Moderation in all things . . . including dark chocolate! |
| Consumer Link The benefits of chocolate |
| Research Link Eur J Clin Nutr. 2011 May 11. [Epub ahead of print] |
| May 11, 2011 Bone loss and osteoporosis have been associated with irritable bowel diseases (both Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis). Recent research indicates that low vitamin D status is common in people with irritable bowel diseases and improving vitamin D status may be especially important for people with this condition. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin D Deficiency Puts Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients at Greater Risk of Osteoporosis, Study Finds |
| Research Link Indian J Med Res. 2009 Aug;130(2):133-7. |
| May 10, 2011 When a child has health problems that seem to be linked to food allergies, there is a tendency for parents to overly restrict the child's diet. This runs the risk of causing nutrient deficiencies that can make the problem even worse. Children should be fully evaluated by an allergist before instituting extreme dietary restrictions. |
| Consumer Link Food-Allergy Fears Drive Overly Restrictive Diets, Study Suggests |
| Research Link J Pediatr. 2011 Apr;158(4):578-583.e1. Epub 2010 Oct 28. |
| May 9, 2011 Should everyone drink 8 cups of water a day? For most people this is more than enough. However, some athletes can sweat off 8 cups of fluid during one hour of exercise. Water to replace these losses can come from many types of beverages and foods. |
| Consumer Link Water needs vary with diet and lifestyle |
| Research Link Mil Med. 1999 Jul;164(7):502-8. |
| May 8, 2011 Sodium is an essential nutrient. The optimal amount to consume continues to be a hot and controversial topic. The results of a recent study conducted in Belgium go against current recommendations for low salt diets. The study found that those with the lowest salt intake had the greatest death rate from cardiovascular disease. |
| Consumer Link Author Insights: Questioning the Benefits of Salt Restriction |
| Research Link JAMA. 2011 May 4;305(17):1777-85. |
| May 7, 2011 In case you want some "feel good" information to support your coffee habit, caffeine is known to "scavenger" some free radical types of molecules called alkoxyl radicals. In "street language," this means that caffeine has antioxidant activity! |
| Consumer Link New Evidence That Caffeine Is a Healthful Antioxidant in Coffee |
| Research Link J Phys Chem B. 2011 Apr 21;115(15):4538-4546. |
| May 6, 2011 Researchers find that the time of day (or night) that people eat and sleep seems to play a role in the storage of body fat. Those who typically go to bed well past mid-night (around 3:45 am) are more likely to be obese. |
| Consumer Link Night Owls at Risk for Weight Gain and Bad Diet |
| Research Link Obesity (Silver Spring). 2011 Apr 28. [Epub ahead of print] |
| May 5, 2011 It is well known that staying fit with regular exercise can reduce the risk of having a heart attack and, in addition, can decrease damage to the heart should a heart attack occur. Recent studies with animals indicate that daily exercise increases the body's capacity to produce nitric oxide, a short-lasting molecule that stimulates blood vessels to dilate and allow more blood to flow to the heart and other parts of the body. |
| Consumer Link Exercise Protects the Heart Via Nitric Oxide, Researchers Discover |
| Research Link Circ Res. 2011 Apr 28. [Epub ahead of print] |
| May 4, 2011 If you have been urged to take medication due to low bone density, talk to your doctor about a one year trial of treating this with nutrition first. An adequate intake of vitamin D, calcium, vitamin K, and protein along with all other essential nutrients can be as effective as medications to rebuild bone in some people. |
| Consumer Link Before You Start Bone-Building Meds, Try Dietary Calcium and Supplements, Experts Urge |
| Research Link Nutrients 2010, 2, 1086-1105; doi:10.3390/nu2111086 |
| May 3, 2011 If you frequently have an irritation or a cut at the corners of your mouth, your diet might be low in vitamin B-2. Reasonable sources of B-2 (riboflavin) include fortified cereals, milk and other dairy products, almonds, and meats. |
| Consumer Link Riboflavin works with other vitamins |
| Research Link Med J Aust. 1984 Nov 10;141(10):635-7. |
| May 2, 2011 The brain's main energy source is glucose (blood sugar). Long-term consumption of excessively low carbohydrate diets may have a negative effect on the mood of some people. |
| Consumer Link Too much carb cutting affects your brain |
| Research Link Arch Intern Med. 2009 Nov 9;169(20):1873-80. |
| May 1, 2011 It is well known that weight loss (especially rapid weight loss) is accompanied by bone loss. However, adding lean meats and low fat dairy foods to the diet in place of high carbohydrate foods was found to help prevent bone loss during weight loss. |
| Consumer Link U of I study shows how to lose weight without losing bone |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2008 Jun;138(6):1096-100. |
| April 30, 2011 A study comparing the eating habits of children in the late 1970s to the eating habits of children in 2003-2006 found that children decreased their calorie intake from meals, but increased the calories they consumed from snacks. This resulted in an increase in total calories consumed. The trend away from regular family meals may be a major contributor to childhood obesity. |
| Consumer Link Study: Snacking Trends Linked to Childhood Obesity |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2011 Apr 27. [Epub ahead of print] |
| April 29, 2011 The human need for omega-3 fatty acids promises to have an increasingly negative impact on the ocean fish population. Research on the fatty acid composition of various types of fish livers indicates that this typically discarded part of the fish is a rich source of these beneficial fatty acids. Using fish livers as a source of fish oil could potentially relieve some of the pressure on the fish population. |
| Consumer Link Fish Livers Contain Beneficial Fatty Acids, Study Suggests |
| Research Link Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, 2011; 24 (2): 217 |
| April 29, 2011 The human need for omega-3 fatty acids promises to have an increasingly negative impact on the ocean fish population. Research on the fatty acid composition of various types of fish livers indicates that this typically discarded part of the fish is a rich source of these beneficial fatty acids. Using fish livers as a source of fish oil could potentially relieve some of the pressure on the fish population. |
| Consumer Link Fish Livers Contain Beneficial Fatty Acids, Study Suggests |
| Research Link Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, 2011; 24 (2): 217 |
| April 28, 2011 Women who have had a pregnancy with a preterm delivery are at increased risk for recurrence with future pregnancies. Moderate intake of fish during pregnancy may help to reduce repeat preterm pregnancies. |
| Consumer Link Fish-eaters show lower risk of preterm birth |
| Research Link Obstet Gynecol. 2011 May;117(5):1071-1077. |
| April 27, 2011 Blacks tend to have higher blood pressure than whites. Due to their darker skin, blacks also typically have lower vitamin D blood levels. Research indicates that high blood pressure is associated with low vitamin D and supports the need to study the effects of vitamin D supplementation on blood pressure in blacks. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin D May Help Explain Racial Differences in Blood Pressure |
| Research Link J Gen Intern Med. 2011 Apr 21. |
| April 26, 2011 There are many reasons to grow or purchase organically grown produce. However, in the continual debate about which is better, organic or non-organic produce, a recent study reports no real antioxidant difference. So, while the debate goes on, rest assured that produce provides a significant amount of healthful antioxidants, organically grown or not. |
| Consumer Link Organic Onions, Carrots and Potatoes Do Not Have Higher Levels of Healthful Antioxidants, Study Finds |
| Research Link J Agric Food Chem. 2010 Oct 13;58(19):10323-9. |
| April 25, 2011 A new study provides another reason to consume alcohol only in moderation. In a rat model, heavy alcohol consumption triggered a substantial inflammatory response in the lungs that would normally delay surgery. However, this inflammatory state was not detectable by the blood tests commonly conducted prior to surgery. |
| Consumer Link Another Reason Not to Binge Drink: Patient's Binge Drinking May Mislead Doctors About a Blood Test Used in Timing an Operation |
| Research Link J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2011 Apr;93(8):739-49. |
| April 24, 2011 Due to the stimulant effects of caffeine, it often is assumed that drinking coffee can increase blood pressure. However, a recent systematic review and meta-analysis of over 170,000 people in six studies found little or no relationship between coffee drinking and blood pressure. It does remain possible that blood pressure in some individuals may be sensitive to caffeine. |
| Consumer Link Coffee doesn't increase high blood pressure risk |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2011 Mar 30. |
| April 23, 2011 Obesity can include accumulation of fat in the liver, leading to "non-alcoholic fatty liver disease." Weight loss and increased physical activity help to treat the condition. In addition, recent research supports consuming a low carbohydrate diet for a few weeks to help reduce fat in the liver. |
| Consumer Link Limiting Carbs, Not Calories, Reduces Liver Fat Faster, Researchers Find |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2011 May;93(5):1048-52. |
| April 22, 2011 High blood glucose levels in diabetes are known to contribute to progressive kidney damage (diabetic nephropathy). A recent study of diabetic mice found that a low carbohydrate "ketogenic" diet reversed diabetic nephropathy in two months. The researchers plan to explore how their observations may be tested further in humans. |
| Consumer Link Low Carbohydrate Diet May Reverse Kidney Failure in People With Diabetes |
| Research Link PLoS ONE 6(4): e18604. |
| April 21, 2011 A recent study on post-menopausal women found that the risk of heart attack was increased by about 20 percent in women taking calcium supplements with or without vitamin D. Additional research is needed to confirm these results and to find the right balance for maintaining both healthy bones and heart function. |
| Consumer Link Calcium Supplements Linked to Increased Heart Attack Risk in Post-Menopausal Women: Study |
| Research Link BMJ. 2011;342:d2040. |
| April 20, 2011 A compound found in milk fat called conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) may help to reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer and even diabetes. Recent evidence found that yak cheese has about four times as much CLA as cheese made from cow's milk. |
| Consumer Link Heart-Healthy Yak Cheese |
| Research Link J. Agric. Food Chem. 2008 56 (5):1654–1660. |
| April 19, 2011 A study of over 60,000 women found that those who consumed the most alcohol during pregnancy were about 4 times more likely to have "very preterm" births (<32 weeks) than women who never drink alcohol. However, it still remains unclear how much alcohol is unsafe and the best recommendation is to not drink alcohol if pregnancy is even possible. |
| Consumer Link Drinking during pregnancy increases risk of premature birth |
| Research Link BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth 2011, 11:27doi:10.1186/1471-2393-11-27 |
| April 18, 2011 Over-the-counter fat-blocker drugs like orlistat (Xenical and Alii) reduce fat absorption in the intestine. This also reduces calcium absorption and increases oxalate absorption which would be expected to increase the risk of kidney damage and kidney stones. |
| Consumer Link Roche's diet drug tied to kidney damage |
| Research Link Arch Intern Med. 2011;171(7):703-704. |
| April 17, 2011 Not eating your vegetables? Consider taking up gardening. It is good hobby both for physical activity and studies find that people who do gardening generally eat more vegetables. |
| Consumer Link Gardening Linked to Increased Vegetable Consumption in Older Adults |
| Research Link HortTechnology, 20: 711-717 (2010) |
| April 16, 2011 A number of beneficial compounds have been identified in green tea. However, an analysis of dietary supplement products with green tea concentrates found that these compounds are often degraded during manufacturing and storage. |
| Consumer Link USDA analysis questions green tea supplements as alternatives to tea leaves |
| Research Link J AOAC Int. 2010 Nov-Dec;93(6):1788-97. |
| April 16, 2011 A number of beneficial compounds have been identified in green tea. However, an analysis of dietary supplement products with green tea concentrates found that these compounds are often degraded during manufacturing and storage. |
| Consumer Link USDA analysis questions green tea supplements as alternatives to tea leaves |
| Research Link J AOAC Int. 2010 Nov-Dec;93(6):1788-97. |
| April 15, 2011 A gluten-free food does not make a food "healthy." However, for the 6 percent of the population with "gluten sensitivity" or the individuals (estimated as 1 out of 133 Americans) with celiac disease, a gluten free diet is the only way to prevent additional intestinal damage. |
| Consumer Link Gluten-free diet is great--if you actually need it |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2008 Oct;108(10):1682-7. |
| April 14, 2011 Beetroot juice has been shown to enhance various aspects of exercise performance, such as enabling a person to work out longer. This is due to the naturally high levels of nitrate. Borscht anyone? |
| Consumer Link Beetroot juice could help people live more active lives |
| Research Link J Appl Physiol. 2011 Mar;110(3):591-600. |
| April 13, 2011 A recent study of children who suffered from serious burn injury found that the body's vitamin E levels tended to drop to seriously low levels during the first 4 weeks of recovery. It is not known why this extreme physiological stress on the body affects vitamin E status or if other types of stress have similar effect. |
| Consumer Link Burn injuries rapidly deplete vitamin E |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2010 Dec;92(6):1378-84. |
| April 12, 2011 A coalition of European scientists reviewed which vitamins and minerals needed the most attention for research to update their levels of recommended intake. Vitamin D, iron and zinc were ranked as the highest-priority nutrients across all age groups. |
| Consumer Link Scientists contemplate most important nutrients |
| Research Link Eur J Clin Nutr. 2010 Jun;64 Suppl 2:S19-30. |
| April 11, 2011 Research suggests that omitting breakfast can interfere with learning and the effect is greater in children who are nutritionally at-risk than it is in well-nourished children. |
| Consumer Link Premium breakfast fuels a better day |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 1998 Apr;67(4):804S-813S |
| April 10, 2011 Getting all of the essential nutrients in the diet is not always easy. Dietary variety is possibly one of the most basic but important ways to accomplish this. |
| Consumer Link Eating for disease prevention may not be healthy |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2004 Jul;134(7):1779-8 |
| April 9, 2011 Interesting new research found that some types of human gut microflora convert choline into a pro-atherosclerotic compound that increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease in some people. Based on this, it seems best to avoid excessively high intake of supplemental choline. |
| Consumer Link Common Dietary Fat and Intestinal Microbes Linked to Heart Disease |
| Research Link Nature, 2011;472: 57-65. |
| April 8, 2011 Recent research with overweight and obese Yup'ik Eskimos found that those with a high intake of fish had high blood levels of the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oils. Those with the highest levels had reduced reduced risk factors for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. |
| Consumer Link Eskimo Study Suggests High Consumption of Omega-3s in Fish-Rich Diet Reduces Obesity-Related Disease Risk |
| Research Link Eur J Clin Nutr. 2011 Mar 23 |
| April 7, 2011 The isoflavones in soy foods can bind to estrogen receptors and influence estrogen function. Based on this and on animal study results, researchers have expressed concerns that soy foods might promote breast cancer development. However, a recent study of over 16,000 breast cancer survivors found that soy food intake did not increase breast cancer risk. |
| Consumer Link Soy Isoflavones Not a Risk for Breast Cancer Survivors, Study Finds |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2001 Nov;131(11 Suppl):3095S-108S. |
| April 6, 2011 Low birth weight is linked to obesity later in life. The cause appears to be compromised brain development in regions of the brain that regulate food intake. The mother's nutrition during pregnancy sets the stage for a baby's life in many ways. |
| Consumer Link Why Low Birth Weight Is Linked to Obesity Later in Life: Study Provides Explanation |
| Research Link Brain Res. 2011 Mar 10;1378:29-42. |
| April 5, 2011 The benefits of regular physical activity are often impressive. Now, there is growing evidence that a habit of frequent vigorous exercise may prevent the shortening of telomeres (the protective caps on the ends of chromosomes). Shortened telomere length is a sign of cell aging and declining health. |
| Consumer Link Exercise may prevent stress on telomeres, a measure of cell health |
| Research Link PLoS One. 2010; 5(5): e10837. Published online 2010 May 26 |
| April 4, 2011 Many types of inflammatory conditions appear to improve when the two key omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil (EPA and DHA) are consumed in adequate amounts. Researchers recently identified a DHA derivative that reduces the inflammatory chemicals and airway hyperresponsiveness associated with asthma. |
| Consumer Link Fish is not just meant for Fridays anymore |
| Research Link Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol. 2010 Nov 12. [Epub ahead of print] |
| April 3, 2011 Researchers have found that poor nutrition during pregnancy and early infancy can have serious long-term impact on the baby’s health much later in their adult years. This appears to occur due to mechanisms that effect how DNA functions in cells. |
| Consumer Link Is epigenetics the ‘means’ to achieving nutrition’s potential? |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2010 Nov;68 Suppl 1:S38-47. |
| April 2, 2011 Perhaps the major downfall for people attempting to control body weight is the drive to consume excess calories in the evening or night time. A recent study on overweight and obese men found that if they consumed lean protein foods at each of three meals a day in amounts of about 50 grams of protein per meal, the men experienced much less of the evening munchies. |
| Consumer Link Adding protein, like lean pork, may help dieters curb late-night munchies |
| Research Link Obesity. 2011 Apr;19(4):818-24. |
| April 1, 2011 Since weight loss in older people can result in significant loss of muscle mass and bone mass, losing weight in a healthy way can be difficult. In obese seniors 65 years of age and up, a year of combining exercise and diet proved to be much better than diet or exercise treatments alone. |
| Consumer Link Diet-Exercise Combo Best for Obese Seniors |
| Research Link New England Journal of Medicine, 2011; 364 (13): 1218. |
| March 31, 2011 More and more, we are learning that natural foods contain non-nutrient chemical compounds that provide health benefits. One of the latest surprises came from the identification of over 50 beneficial compounds in maple syrup. However, there is much to learn about how these compounds affect the body and how much is needed to make a difference. |
| Consumer Link URI scientist discovers 54 beneficial compounds in pure maple syrup |
| Research Link J Agric Food Chem. 2010 Nov 24;58(22):11673-9. Epub 2010 Oct 29. |
| March 30, 2011 Eating disorders, especially anorexia nervosa, are growing increasingly common in older people. These older sufferers are more likely to die from complications of the condition than are younger victims. The mortality rate for those over 50 years old is estimated to be a rather shocking 21%. |
| Consumer Link Eating Disorders Rising Among Elderly Women |
| Research Link Int Psychogeriatr. 2010 Jun;22(4):523-36. Epub 2010 Feb 22. |
| March 29, 2011 A recently published study of over 4000 pregnant women found that those with the lowest levels of vitamin B-12 in their blood were about 4 times as likely to have babies who cried excessively (3 or more hours a day). Adequate B-12 is required for normal neurological development in the fetus and infant, so a cause and effect relationship is certainly possible. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin B12. Can it Really Help Prevent Colic in Babies? |
| Research Link Early Hum Dev. 2011 Apr;87(4):309-14. |
| March 28, 2011 Do you find it challenging to plan out a week’s worth of food shopping? Then, consider that NASA food scientists are striving to work out ways to provide 3 to 5 years of food supplies to meet all of the nutritional needs of astronauts on a Mars mission. |
| Consumer Link Food Science Challenges for NASA Missions to Mars |
| Research Link Journal of Food Science, 2011; 76 (2): R40-48. |
| March 27, 2011 A study that followed almost 4000 people for 20 years found that those who consumed the greatest amounts of a trans fatty acid (trans-palmitoleate) naturally present in milk fat had better insulin sensitivity and were less likely to develop diabetes. Based on these results, skim milk may not be the best option. |
| Consumer Link Fatty acid in dairy products may reduce type 2 diabetes risk |
| Research Link Ann Intern Med. 2010 Dec 21;153(12):790-9. |
| March 26, 2011 Weight training is not typically recommended during pregnancy, however, a new study has now found that low to moderate intensity strength exercise was well tolerated by 32 pregnant women. The women performed strength exercise twice a week for 12 weeks and experienced an increase in strength with no change in blood pressure. |
| Consumer Link Supervised Weight Training Safe for Pregnant Women, Study Suggests |
| Research Link Journal of Physical Activity and Health, Volume 8, Issue 3, p309-320. |
| March 25, 2011 A recent article in the New England Journal of Medicine reported that the levels of mercury consumed in fish do not increase the risk of cardiovascular disease in adults. This was based on two major studies with a total of over 170,000 participants. |
| Consumer Link Study finds no association between mercury exposure and risk of cardiovascular disease |
| Research Link NEJM Vol. 364 No. 12 P 1116-1125. |
| March 24, 2011 Researchers estimate that about 5 percent of obese people are purely "genetically obese," making it virtually impossible for them to have a normal body weight. Since genes can clearly influence body weight, it is best to exercise, eat well, and let the body find the weight at which everything functions best physically and mentally. |
| Consumer Link Can you blame your genes for tight jeans? |
| Research Link J Intern Med. 2003 Nov;254(5):401-25. |
| March 23, 2011 A good rule of thumb: Your diet should have more color than your wardrobe. |
| Consumer Link March is National Nutrition Month – Eat right with color |
| Research Link Molecules. 2011 Feb 18;16(2):1710-38. |
| March 22, 2011 If you have ever thought that dieting makes you more irritable, now there is research to support it. Studying dieters, researchers found that people who exerted self-control were more quick to anger and expressed more irritation at a message that used controlling language to convince them to change their exercise habits. |
| Consumer Link Cranky? On a Diet? How Self-Control Leads to Anger |
| Research Link J Consumer Res. March 2011. |
| March 21, 2011 Both Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) and celiac disease have been linked to low iron status. Although the cause and effect relationships are not entirely clear, evaluating both iron status and the presence of celiac disease is recommended for the medical assessment of RLS. |
| Consumer Link Celiac Disease Screening Recommended for Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) with Iron Deficiency |
| Research Link Sleep Med. 2009 Aug;10(7):763-5. |
| March 20, 2011 The long-term balance between physical activity and calorie intake determines body weight and body fat levels. People who have the painful condition called fibromyalgia are frequently overweight. Some researchers suggest that weight loss may improve the condition. However, the person with fibromyalgia is in a bit of a bind because the condition causes physical activity to be more painful and, thus, weight loss more difficult. |
| Consumer Link Study Probes Obesity Link to Fibromyalgia |
| Research Link J Pain. 2010 Dec;11(12):1329-37. Epub 2010 Jun 9 |
| March 19, 2011 It is well known that vitamin A is important to human nutrition and fetal development. However, we now know that the retinol form of vitamin A plays an extremely important role the production of energy at a cellular level. Both too much and too little vitamin A can disturb normal energy production and cause cellular havoc. |
| Consumer Link Too Much Of A Good Thing? Scientists Explain Cellular Effects Of Vitamin A Overdose And Deficiency |
| Research Link FASEB J. 2010 Feb;24(2):627-36. |
| March 18, 2011 Exercise programs have been found to be good treatment for some types of depression. A recent study on older people with depression found that even a gentle exercise like tai chi significantly improves the success of standard therapy for depression. |
| Consumer Link Tai chi beats back depression in the elderly, study shows |
| Research Link Am J Geriatr Psychiatry. 2011 Mar 6. [Epub ahead of print] |
| March 17, 2011 A large European study found that participants with higher levels of "good" HDL cholesterol had lower risk of developing bowel cancer. If other studies support this observation, HDL levels may be used to assess more than risk of cardiovascular disease. |
| Consumer Link High levels of 'good' cholesterol may cut bowel cancer risk |
| Research Link Gut (2011). doi:10.1136/gut.2010.225011 |
| March 16, 2011 Much of the world suffers from blindness and low resistance to infections because of vitamin A deficiency. A genetically modified rice, called “golden rice” contains beta carotene, a precursor for vitamin A. Although this would seem to be a simple solution to the problem, significant hurdles include resistance to the use of genetically modified plant and cultural acceptance of a different colored type of rice. |
| Consumer Link Multiple approaches necessary to tackle world's food problems |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2009 Jun;89(6):1776-83. Epub 2009 Apr 15 |
| March 15, 2011 A study of nursing facility residents found that those with low serum (blood) zinc concentrations were much more likely to develop pneumonia and to take longer to recover than those with normal zinc levels. Those with low zinc status also had lower protein status. This makes sense because the main foods that provide well-absorbed zinc are animal protein foods. |
| Consumer Link Adequate Zinc Eases Pneumonia in Elderly, Study Finds |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2007 Oct;86(4):1167-3. |
| March 14, 2011 When trying to get the benefits of consuming vegetables, don’t forget the tomato sauce on your pasta and pizza. One tablespoon of tomato sauce provides as much of the beneficial lycopene as a medium-sized fresh tomato. Also, cooking of the sauces greatly improves the bioavailability of lycopene. |
| Consumer Link Health Benefits of Eating Tomatoes Emerge |
| Research Link Amer J Lifestyle Med. doi:10.1177/1559827610387488 |
| March 13, 2011 During pregnancy, a woman’s Recommended Dietary Allowance for iron increases from 18 to 27 mg per day. Meeting this need may be extremely important for the lifelong health of a woman’s child. Recent research links maternal iron deficiency to increased risk of asthma in the child. |
| Consumer Link Pregnancy Anemia Linked to Childhood Wheezing and Asthma |
| Research Link Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2011 Feb;106(2):131-139.e1. |
| March 12, 2011 More good news about coffee: A Swedish study from the Karolinska Institute found that NOT drinking coffee was associated with an increased risk of stroke in women. It is not known why this is the case, but it could be due to coffee’s ability to moderate subclinical inflammation, decrease oxidative stress and improve insulin sensitivity. |
| Consumer Link Add cream, sugar and a lower risk of stroke to your coffee |
| Research Link Stroke. 2011 Mar 10. [Epub ahead of print] |
| March 11, 2011 Almonds are a healthful addition to the diet and 4 ounces of almonds contain as much calcium as 8 ounces of milk. But wait! Due to limited bioavailability of calcium in almonds and high calorie content, meeting daily calcium needs with almonds requires eating more than 3,000 calories of almonds compared to less than 300 calories of nonfat milk. |
| Consumer Link All calcium sources not created equal |
| Research Link J Food Comp Anal. 2007;20(8):717-724. |
| March 10, 2011 Eating disorders in teens are often linked to depression, anxiety or other mental disorders. Even suicide thoughts or attempts are commonly reported. Since disordered eating causes nutrient deficiencies, it should not be surprising that serious mental problems can coexist with eating disorders. |
| Consumer Link Eating disorders hit more than half million teens |
| Research Link Arch Gen Psychiatry. doi:10.1001/archgenpsychiatry.2011.22 |
| March 9, 2011 An old medical condition called "milk alkali syndrome" has resurfaced and researchers are recommending a new name: "calcium alkali syndrome." Overuse of calcium supplements and calcium-containing antacids can cause high blood pressure and even kidney failure. Researchers recommend keeping total calcium intake below 1200 to 1500 mg per day. |
| Consumer Link Calcium Supplements: Too Much of a Good Thing? |
| Research Link BMJ. 2007 August 25; 335(7616): 397–398. |
| March 8, 2011 About half of us are infected with the bacteria Helicobacter pylori that lives in the stomach lining. Most of us have no obvious symptoms, however, research indicates that children, infected with H. pylori have lower iron levels than children previously treated for this bacteria. Since adequate iron is essential for normal brain development and function, it may become more routine to test children for the presence of H. pylori. |
| Consumer Link Helicobacter pylori infection linked to decreased iron levels in otherwise healthy children, according to research at UTHealth |
| Research Link Am J Epidemiol. 2006 Jan 15;163(2):127-34. Epub 2005 Nov 23. |
| March 7, 2011 March is National Nutrition Month and this year's theme from the American Dietetic Association is, "Eat Right with Color." A colorful meal appeals both to the eye and the palate and provides a greater variety of nutrients and beneficial phytochemicals. |
| Consumer Link March is National Nutrition Month – Eat right with color |
| Research Link Molecules. 2011 Feb 18;16(2):1710-38. |
| March 6, 2011 Exercise is an important part of staying healthy. So whether you are looking for a new house location or needing a place of solace, remember community parks and playgrounds have been shown to provide opportunities for both escape and physical activity. |
| Consumer Link Key to better health care may be a walk in the park |
| Research Link Disasters. 2011 Apr;35(2):383-403. |
| March 5, 2011 To supplement or not to supplement? The answer is not always simple. For example, research reports that vitamin E supplementation may decrease the risk of pneumonia if you exercise regularly and don’t smoke. But, if you smoke and don’t exercise vitamin E supplementation can increase your risk of pneumonia. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin E May Increase or Decrease the Risk of Pneumonia, Depending on Smoking and Exercise |
| Research Link Clinical Epidemiol. 2011; 2011;51-59. |
| March 4, 2011 A new study about nutrition during early pregnancy in non-human primates provides potentially breakthrough concepts that may help us understand what causes deficits in intellect and attention. Just a 30 percent reduction in nutrient intake by the mother during early pregnancy had a major impact on brain development of the fetus. |
| Consumer Link Reducing Diet Early in Pregnancy Stunts Fetal Brain Development, Study Finds |
| Research Link PNAS February 15, 2011 vol. 108 no. 7 3011-3016 |
| March 3, 2011 Brain scanning techniques show that brain shrinkage is associated with mental function decline in older people. One study found that supplements of vitamin B12, B6, and folic acid helped to slow brain shrinkage. Other studies have demonstrated that vitamin B12 is especially important for maintaining brain and neural tissues. |
| Consumer Link B Vitamins Slow Brain Atrophy in People With Memory Problems |
| Research Link PLoS One. 2010; 5(9): e12244. |
| March 2, 2011 Consumer research shows that labeling a food as “healthy” or “tasty and delicious” affects appetite. When people eat a food identifies as “healthy”, their appetite is not decreased as much as when they eat the same food identified as “tasty and delicious”. |
| Consumer Link Healthy Food Makes Consumers Feel Hungrier When Choices Are Limited |
| Research Link JOURNAL OF CONSUMER RESEARCH, Inc. Vol. 37 October 2010 |
| March 1, 2011 Researchers studying omega-3 fatty acids have found that humans can convert less than one percent of alpha-linolenic acid (the plant oil omega-3 fatty acid) into DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid in fish and algae oils. Since DHA makes up over 90 percent of the omega-3 fatty acids in the brain, DHA deficiency during fetal and infant stages may contribute to the development of mental disorders. |
| Consumer Link New Study Links DHA Type of Omega-3 to Better Nervous-System Function |
| Research Link Lipids. 2009 Aug;44(8):685-702. Epub 2009 Jul 9. |
| February 28, 2011 When attempting to make healthful changes in eating habits, it is important to have a clear action plan. Also, as sports psychologists point out, adding mental imagery to clearly visualize carrying out the details of the action plan can increase the likelihood of success. |
| Consumer Link Planning and visualization lead to better food habits |
| Research Link Psychol Health. 2011 Feb 18:1-17. |
| February 27, 2011 Alzheimer's disease is diagnosed primarily by observation of progressive impairment of memory and other cognitive functions. Research often links high homocysteine and low vitamin B-12 status with the development of Alzheimer's disease. Since, however, B-12 deficiency causes direct damage to nerve structure and can impair memory, B-12 deficiency (which is easily treated) could be misdiagnosed as Alzheimer's disease. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin B12 May Reduce Risk of Alzheimer's Disease |
| Research Link Neurology. 2010 Oct 19;75(16):1408-14. |
| February 26, 2011 Fresh produce can sometimes lose vitamin content in the market while waiting to be purchased. However, this is not the case for fresh spinach leaves displayed under fluorescent lighting. After 3 days of showcase-like exposure to fluorescent light, spinach's levels of vitamins C, K, E, and folate increased significantly. |
| Consumer Link Supermarket Lighting Enhances Nutrient Level of Fresh Spinach |
| Research Link J Agric Food Chem. 2010 Mar 10;58(5):2980-7. |
| February 25, 2011 A recent study found that adding a cup or two of vegetable juice (V8) to the daily diet helped people meet their vegetable recommendations. Those with blood pressure greater than 120/80 had a significant decrease in blood pressure at the end of 12 weeks. The juice increased their intake of both sodium and potassium. |
| Consumer Link Research suggests V8 100% vegetable juice can help people meet key dietary guidelines |
| Research Link Nutr J. 2010; 9: 38. Published online 2010 September 17. |
| February 24, 2011 Vitamin D is known to play a role in supporting normal immune function. A recent study reported that children and adolescents with low vitamin D status were much more likely to have environmental and food allergies than those with normal vitamin D status. |
| Consumer Link Low vitamin D levels linked to allergies in kids |
| Research Link J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2011 Feb 15. |
| February 23, 2011 Why will some children eat vegetables and others turn up their nose? It may be largely due to the sensitivity of their bitter taste receptors that appears to be genetically determined. Children with a bitter taste gene have a greater aversion to bitter foods and a greater preference for sweet foods. Luckily for health, the bitterness aversion tends to decline with age. |
| Consumer Link Psychobiologists Find Genetic Component in Children's Food Preference |
| Research Link Pediatrics. 2005 Feb;115(2):e216-22. |
| February 22, 2011 Garlic is known to have antibacterial properties due to a compound called allicin. However, the allicin that is present in freshly crushed garlic degrades rapidly within hours or a few days, depending on how it is processed. |
| Consumer Link Love That Garlic? Fresh May Be Healthier Than Bottled |
| Research Link J Agric Food Chem. 2008 Jun 11;56(11):4229-35. |
| February 21, 2011 Some of the components of nutritional supplements can break down over time and lose their effectiveness. This is especially true when supplements are stored in humid locations like the bathroom. |
| Consumer Link Vitamins stored in bathrooms, kitchens may become less effective |
| Research Link J Agric Food Chem. 2010 Mar 24;58(6):3532-40. |
| February 20, 2011 Celiac disease damages the intestinal lining and can impair the absorption of some vitamins and minerals. As a consequence, both children and adults with celiac disease are at increased risk for low bone density. Recent research suggests that taking supplements with vitamins D and K may be especially important to prevent bone loss in those with celiac disease. |
| Consumer Link Vitamins needed to help celiacs stave off bone disease |
| Research Link Clin Rev Allergy Immunol. 2011 Jan 7. [Epub ahead of print] |
| February 19, 2011 While monitoring over 600 adults with type 2 diabetes during a 10-year period, Australian researchers found that those with the greatest amount of salt in their diet had the lowest risk of dying during the study period. The researchers stress that more research is needed, but emphasize that restricting salt is not always beneficial. |
| Consumer Link Doubt cast on salt guidelines for diabetics |
| Research Link Diabetes Care. 2011 Feb 2. [Epub ahead of print] |
| February 18, 2011 Infants are susceptible to having Clostridium botulinum bacteria thrive in their immature intestine, poisoning them from within. This is why infants should never be fed honey. This concentrated sugar food can harbor the dormant spore form of this bacteria. Fortunately, honey is safe for older children and adults. |
| Consumer Link Err on the side of caution when it comes to botulism |
| Research Link CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY REVIEWS, Apr. 1996, p. 119–125 |
| February 17, 2011 Infants and children sometimes develop constipation. Increasing food sources of dietary fiber can help to relieve this problem. However, increasing the child's fiber intake too high for too long can seriously impair the absorption of essential minerals. |
| Consumer Link Childhood obesity – is more fiber the answer? |
| Research Link J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 1982;1(1):91-5. |
| February 16, 2011 A recent review reports that taking zinc syrups, lozenges or tablets within a day of the onset of cold symptoms can reduce the severity and length of illness. However, don’t confuse these oral products with the intranasal zinc products that FDA warned can cause loss of the sense of smell. |
| Consumer Link Zinc reduces the burden of the common cold |
| Research Link Med Hypotheses. 2010 Mar;74(3):482-92. |
| February 15, 2011 Ads for weight loss supplements and powders are tempting if you need to lose weight. However, research is very limited to support weight loss supplement use. There is however research that supports moving more. Remember even just standing up burns twice the calories of lying on the couch. |
| Consumer Link Do weight loss supplements work? No, says researcher |
| Research Link Nutrition Bulletin, Volume 35, Issue 4, pages 300–303, December 2010. |
| February 14, 2011 Full recovery from exercise bouts is as important for athletes as a good workout. A recent double-blind study found that daily consumption of a sour cherry (Montmorency) juice concentrate could enhanced muscle recovery from hard workouts. |
| Consumer Link New research suggests tart cherries could speed muscle recovery |
| Research Link Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2011 Jan 12. |
| February 13, 2011 The common sugar fructose, present in many fruits, table sugar, and high fructose corn syrup, has been proposed to be a contributor to obesity. However, a recent extensive evidence-based review concluded that even relatively high levels of fructose consumed as part of the diet do not contribute to obesity. Excess calories from any source can promote obesity. |
| Consumer Link Fructose Does Not Increase Food Intake or Impact Weight, Extensive Research Demonstrates |
| Research Link Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2010 Nov;50(10):889-918. |
| February 12, 2011 Researchers reported at this year’s International Stroke Conference that daily consumption of diet soda is associated with a greater risk of stroke. A critical commentary on this study from the American Council on Science and Health considers the study to be flawed and doubts that it will be publishable in a reputable peer- reviewed journal. |
| Consumer Link Diet Soda Study Goes Flat |
| Research Link Stroke Vol 42, No 3 March 2011, Abstract # Th P55, page e273 |
| February 11, 2011 It was found decades ago that dietary cholesterol has little or no effect on blood cholesterol levels in most people. Despite this knowledge, recommendations persist to reduce egg consumption for lowering blood cholesterol. The good news for those who "missed the memo" is that the cholesterol in a large egg is 185 mg, 14 percent lower than previously recorded. |
| Consumer Link Eggs are now naturally lower in cholesterol |
| Research Link USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference |
| February 10, 2011 Studies continue to indicate that breakfast is the best way to start the day. Teenage mothers who ate breakfast regularly had a lower weight for their height and consumed significantly less snack foods and soft drinks than their counterparts who rarely ate breakfast. |
| Consumer Link Breakfast Is an Important Meal, Especially for Teen Moms and Their Kids |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2011 Jan;111(1):124-30. |
| February 9, 2011 People often end up in the hospital for ailments that demand symptomatic medical treatment. However, studies show that malnutrition is a frequent, but unnoticed, cause or component of these medical conditions. |
| Consumer Link Malnutrition: A skeleton in the health care closet |
| Research Link J Nutr Health Aging. 2010 Aug;14(8):622-8. |
| February 8, 2011 Binge drinking is defined as consuming four drinks (women) or five drinks (men) on a single occasion within the past 2 weeks. This type of drinking, especially in teenagers and young adults, can cause permanent brain damage that results in memory problems and impaired cognitive function. Remember moderation. |
| Consumer Link Rural underage binge drinkers put their health at risk |
| Research Link Psychol Bull. 2009 Jan;135(1):142-56. |
| February 7, 2011 It is not clear why, but girls from 2 to 5 years of age are more likely to be overweight if their family has been experiencing food insecurity and hunger. The same association was not found for boys. |
| Consumer Link Paradoxically, food insecurity may be underlying contributor to overweight |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2009 Oct;109(10):1790-4. |
| February 6, 2011 Whey protein, a byproduct of cheese production, is commonly used as a protein source in high protein beverages and other products. When young adults with high blood pressure added a daily drink containing 28 grams of whey protein to their usual diet, it normalized their blood pressure. The whey protein drink had no effect on those with normal blood pressure. |
| Consumer Link Whey supplements lower blood pressure |
| Research Link Int Dairy J. 2010;11:753-760. |
| February 5, 2011 Spinach is not a good source of absorbable iron or calcium, but it does provide other beneficial substances. Recent studies show that the amount of nitrate in spinach is similar to amounts found to enhance performance of endurance exercise. |
| Consumer Link Want more efficient muscles? Eat your spinach |
| Research Link Free Radic Biol Med. 2010 Jan 15;48(2):342-7. |
| February 4, 2011 A vegan diet can provide health benefits, but this diet has specific risks like virtually all styles of eating. The major nutritional limitations of a vegan diet appear to be low intake of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B-12, and iron. |
| Consumer Link Vegans' elevated heart risk requires omega-3s and B12 |
| Research Link J Agric Food Chem. 2011 Feb 9;59(3):777-84. |
| February 3, 2011 Iron deficiency during late fetal development and early infancy causes irreversible damage to brain development and function. Using rats previously exposed to early iron deficiency, researchers found that treatment with low dose ritalin improved brain function much the same as it does in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) children. |
| Consumer Link Ritalin may ease early iron deficiency damage |
| Research Link Behav Brain Res. 2011 Jan 1;216(1):146-52. |
| February 2, 2011 Reversing type 2 diabetes without drugs is possible. It requires major changes in lifestyle that include increased daily exercise, cutting back on high calorie foods, and eating an overall healthful diet that meets nutrient needs. |
| Consumer Link Reversing diabetes is possible |
| Research Link J Appl Physiol. 2008 May;104(5):1313-9. |
| February 1, 2011 Feel like a strong mug of coffee after that long run? It may not be a bad idea. A double-blind study with endurance athletes found that when caffeine was consumed with carbohydrate after exhaustive exercise, the caffeine boosted carbohydrate storage (glycogen) in muscles by 66%. |
| Consumer Link Post-exercise caffeine helps muscles refuel |
| Research Link J Appl Physiol. 2008 Jul;105(1):7-13. |
| January 31, 2011 When was the last time you had chocolate milk and felt good about it? Research on chocolate milk as an exercise recovery drink indicates that it has a good balance of carbohydrate and protein to enhance recovery and muscle repair after a workout. |
| Consumer Link Chocolate milk is a 'natural' for post-exercise recovery |
| Research Link J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2010; 7: 19. |
| January 30, 2011 A mouse study clearly demonstrated what human dieters already know. Mice that had previously experienced weight loss diets responded to stress by consuming more high-fat foods than mice that had never been on a weight loss diet. This may be why lost weight is so rarely kept off. |
| Consumer Link Yo-yo dieting alters genes linked with stress |
| Research Link J Neurosci. 2010 Dec 1;30(48):16399-407. |
| January 29, 2011 Many of us choose skim milk products to keep calories down. It may be better, however, to not go totally non-fat. There is growing evidence that some of the components in milk fat are beneficial and may reduce the risk of diabetes, colorectal cancer, and cardiovascular disease. |
| Consumer Link Got milk? What kind? |
| Research Link Ann Intern Med. 2010 Dec 21;153(12):790-9. |
| January 28, 2011 It has become an increasingly common practice to mix highly caffeinated energy drinks with alcoholic beverages. Health professionals are expressing concern about this practice because those who combine caffeine and alcohol appear to be more likely to underestimate their level of impairment. |
| Consumer Link Non-alcoholic energy drinks may pose 'high' health risks |
| Research Link Alcohol Clin Exp Res. 2006 Apr;30(4):598-605. |
| January 27, 2011 An increasing number of health professionals question the emphasis on reducing body weight for health. An overweight individual's health may benefit more from focusing on exercise and healthful eating rather that waging a battle on body weight. |
| Consumer Link Weight loss's link to better health questioned |
| Research Link Nutrition Journal 2011, 10:9 |
| January 26, 2011 Children are regularly targeted by commercials promoting calorie-dense, nutrient-poor foods. It is now clear that excess sugar and fat are linked to obesity. Don't expect children to be able to make wise food choices from a selection of foods that should only be consumed as occasional treats. |
| Consumer Link Preschool kids know what they like: Salt, sugar and fat |
| Research Link Appetite. 2011 Jan 14. [Epub ahead of print] |
| January 25, 2011 A major concern as we age is losing mobility and independence. Avoiding overweight and obesity during the young and middle-aged years appears to be important for preventing or delaying the onset of mobility limitations later in life. |
| Consumer Link Weight gain early in life leads to physical disabilities in older adults |
| Research Link Int J Obes (Lond). 2007 Nov;31(11):1680-7. |
| January 24, 2011 Having an "exercise buddy" can make regular physical activity more enjoyable. New research shows that this is the case for children. Helping kids connect with other physically active kids is likely to be a major factor for staying fit and maintaining a healthy body weight. |
| Consumer Link Best friends can make a child more physically active |
| Research Link Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2011 Feb;43(2):259-65. |
| January 23, 2011 If it tastes good, it CAN be good for you. Research from the Nurses' Health Study indicates that berries have clear health benefits. Foods containing high levels of anthocyanins (found mainly in blueberries and strawberries) were associated with lower levels of hypertension, especially in individuals younger than 60 years of age. |
| Consumer Link Bioactive compounds in berries can reduce high blood pressure |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2011 Feb;93(2):338-47. |
| January 22, 2011 Rapid weight loss from cutting calories can cause bone loss. Some researchers consider this association to be a serious and emerging problem following common types of obesity surgery. To reduce this bone loss while dieting, consume a diet high in protein, milk products, and calcium. |
| Consumer Link Bone mass at risk during weight loss |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2008 Jun;138(6):1096-100 |
| January 21, 2011 A balanced diet helps to maintain a balanced population of beneficial bacteria living in the lower part of the intestinal tract. This helps to protect us from pathogenic bacteria, some cancers, and possibly even the development of obesity. |
| Consumer Link Useful bacteria build intestine’s fortitude |
| Research Link Gastroenterology. 2009 Jan;136(1):65-80. |
| January 20, 2011 Eating a moderately low-calorie diet with adequate carbohydrate and protein promotes fat loss, inhibits lean tissue loss and will help to maintain a lower body weight over time. On the other hand, too little and too much carbohydrate can complicate weight management. |
| Consumer Link Too much carb cutting affects your brain |
| Research Link Obes Rev. 2006 Feb;7(1):49-58. |
| January 19, 2011 A common condition called Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is often caused by iron deficiency. RLS researchers recommend that serum ferritin, a blood index of body iron stores, be greater than 50 ng/ml. |
| Consumer Link Iron deficiency might play role in jittery legs |
| Research Link Mov Disord. 2008 Jun 15;23(8):1184-7. |
| January 18, 2011 The book titled the “China Study” promotes a completely plant-based diet free of meat, fish, or milk. The author, however, fails to discuss his own published research from the “China Study.” His research demonstrated clear benefits of milk consumption on bone health in the Chinese population. |
| Consumer Link Nutrition Advice From the China Study |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 1993 Aug;58(2):219-27. |
| January 17, 2011 Need to avoid that afternoon decline in mental focus? Try chewing sugarless gum. There is evidence that chewing gum enhances brain function, possibly by increasing blood flow to the brain. |
| Consumer Link Chewing gum could offer health benefits |
| Research Link Br J Psychol. 2008 May;99(Pt 2):293-306. |
| January 16, 2011 Recent research shows that simply taking more steps every day not only helps ward off obesity but also reduces the risk of diabetes. Incorporating 10,000 steps a day into their daily routine was shown to be beneficial for improving body mass index, waist to hip ratio, and insulin sensitivity. |
| Consumer Link Taking more steps every day can help ward off diabetes |
| Research Link BMJ. 2011 Jan 13;342:c7249. |
| January 15, 2011 If you take vitamin D supplements, select products with vitamin D3. This is important because Vitamin D2 is not as effectively utilized by the body. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin D3 ’87 percent more potent’ than D2: Study |
| Research Link J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2010 Dec 22. [Epub ahead of print] |
| January 14, 2011 Mother's milk is the best food for young babies. New recommendations from a variety of sources suggest that supplemental or food sources of iron should be fed to exclusively breastfed babies beginning at about 4 months of age. This is because breast milk is low in iron and most babies are born with only about 4 months worth of iron stored in their body. |
| Consumer Link Is 'breast only' for first 6 months best? |
| Research Link J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 2008 Jan;46(1):99-110. |
| January 13, 2011 To maintain health, the adult "Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans" suggest aiming for 300 minutes per week of moderate exercise or 150 minutes per week of vigorous intensity exercise. |
| Consumer Link Metabolic ailment a rising health risk |
| Research Link Am J Prev Med. 2010 Oct;39(4):305-13. |
| January 12, 2011 Tomato is one of the most common agricultural crops worldwide and now we have another great reason to keep tomatoes in our diet. Researchers have found another beneficial compound besides lycopene that helps to improve abnormalities of lipid metabolism. |
| Consumer Link Tomatoes found to contain nutrient which prevents vascular diseases |
| Research Link Mol Nutr Food Res. 2010 Nov 18. [Epub ahead of print] |
| January 11, 2011 Although genetic factors affect the risk of neurodegenerative disorders, a number of studies also show that dietary factors play a major role in disorders of brain aging. |
| Consumer Link Feed your brain for best performance |
| Research Link J Nutr Health Aging. 2006 Sep-Oct;10(5):386-99. |
| January 10, 2011 Regular physical activity helps to maintain healthy blood glucose levels. For some diabetics, however, exercise can cause blood glucose to drop too low. Consequently, people with diabetes should work with appropriately trained health professionals to design their best exercise program. |
| Consumer Link Exercise helps treat diabetes |
| Research Link Sports Med. 2007;37(11):937-46. |
| January 9, 2011 The Institute of Medicine has set recommended levels of intake for fluoride (Adequate Intake values). The range of safe intake, however, is fairly narrow. The Adequate Intake for adults is 3 to 4 mg/day and the Tolerable Upper Intake Level Level is 10 mg/day. |
| Consumer Link US says too much fluoride causing splotchy teeth |
| Research Link Centers for Disease Control and Prevention |
| January 8, 2011 Want a simple way to increase your calorie needs? Simply spend more time standing up. Standing uses about twice as many calories per minute as sitting. |
| Consumer Link Too bad we can't put exercise in a pill |
| Research Link Food and Nutrition Information Center |
| January 7, 2011 Low vitamin D blood levels have been associated with increased falls, fractures, cancer, immune system problems, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension. The best food sources of vitamin D include fatty fish, eggs from hens fed vitamin D, and fortified cereals and milk products. |
| Consumer Link Low vitamin D levels associated with death from cardiovascular, all causes |
| Research Link Osteoporos Int. 2007 Mar;18(3):251-9. |
| January 6, 2011 Although strokes are uncommon in children, they do sometimes occur. Some research indicates that iron deficiency anemia is associated with the risk of strokes in children. |
| Consumer Link Association Between Iron Deficiency Anemia and Ischemic Stroke |
| Research Link Arch Dis Child. 2010 Oct 27. [Epub ahead of print] |
| January 5, 2011 The sense of taste can be altered by illness, medical treatments, or medications. Usually these changes are temporary and will improve with time. Adding spices and other flavorings to foods can help to maintain a normal diet despite disturbances in taste sensitivity. |
| Consumer Link Eating during cancer treatment |
| Research Link J Clin Oncol. 2009 Apr 10;27(11):1899-905. |
| January 4, 2011 January is Thyroid Awareness Month! Thyroid function can be impaired by a dietary deficiency of iodine, iron, selenium, and/or vitamin A. To keep your thyroid in shape, eat a wide variety of foods from all the major food groups. |
| Consumer Link Iron plays an important role for the thyroid |
| Research Link Thyroid. 2002 Oct;12(10):867-78. |
| January 3, 2011 Excessive hair loss in women is often thought to be strictly related to emotional or physiological stress. However, there is increasing evidence that low iron stores are strongly associated with hair loss in women who are free of systemic inflammation and other underlying disorders. |
| Consumer Link Hair loss in women has contributing factors |
| Research Link Acta Dermatovenerol Croat. 2009;17(4):279-84. |
| January 2, 2011 Research on children in New Zealand reported that those who were vitamin D deficient at birth were more likely to have respiratory infections and wheezing problems during early childhood than children with normal vitamin D status. However, the risk of asthma was not related to vitamin D status in this study. |
| Consumer Link Newborns with low vitamin D levels at increased risk for respiratory infections |
| Research Link Pediatrics. 2010 Dec 27. [Epub ahead of print] |
| January 1, 2011 A recent review of 52 research studies indicates that physical activity is associated with a 25% reduction in colon cancer risk, as well as a reduced risk of cancer recurrence and death following a cancer diagnosis. |
| Consumer Link Consistent exercise associated with lower risk of colon cancer death |
| Research Link Recent Results Cancer Res. 2011;186:73-100 |
| December 31, 2010 Research indicates that greater intakes of dietary calcium reduces the risk of kidney stone formation in both younger and older women. |
| Consumer Link Study finds diet can affect kidney stones |
| Research Link Arch Intern Med. 2004 Apr 26;164(8):885-91. |
| December 30, 2010 Are you getting ready to wrap up the holiday party season? Remember to have a high-protein snack before heading off to a party. Research shows that high-protein foods have a high satiety value and can help reduce the desire to mindlessly over-consume those special goodies at the party. |
| Consumer Link Balance and moderation best at holiday parties |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2008 May;87(5):1558S-1561S. |
| December 29, 2010 Eating habits of the mother may affect what foods her toddler will eat. Research indicates that toddlers are less likely to consume adequate fruits and vegetables if their mother does not. |
| Consumer Link Mothers' diets have biggest influence on children eating healthy. |
| Research Link Public Health Nurs. 2010 Sep;27(5):408-17. |
| December 28, 2010 University of Mass. Medical School research showed that what a mouse is fed before becoming a father can affect health risk factors in their offspring. Male mice fed a low protein diet fathered offspring that had altered synthesis of lipids and cholesterol in the liver. This research will undoubtedly open many new research doors. |
| Consumer Link You are what your father ate. |
| Research Link Cell. 2010 Dec 23;143(7):1084-96. |
| December 27, 2010 Not all foods are created equal, even if their culinary function is the same. For example, egg white may be used in place of whole egg, but eliminating the egg yoke also eliminates about half of the protein and nearly all of the essential nutrient choline. |
| Consumer Link Little-noticed choline plays essential role |
| Research Link USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 23 for choline |
| December 26, 2010 The enjoyment of exercise is associated with the ease of the exercise. Adequate hydration has been shown to decrease muscle fatigue allowing you to get better workouts. |
| Consumer Link Fluids and Exercise |
| Research Link Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2001 Oct;33(10):1694-700 |
| December 25, 2010 Meeting nutritional needs is very difficult when a person cannot count on obtaining adequate amounts of food. USDA indicates that between 5 - 10% of the US population is food insecure. Specific populations, including college students, may have even higher rates of food insecurity. |
| Consumer Link Food Security in the United States: Frequency of Food Insecurity |
| Research Link Public Health Nutr. 2009 Nov;12(11):2097-103. |
| December 24, 2010 Santa says that there can be health at every size. He emphasizes that body fat has important biological functions, especially in the North Pole climate. He may be a big man, but the high level of physical activity required for his work keeps him quite fit and healthy. |
| Consumer Link Santa is larger than life but his job keeps him fit |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2009 Nov;109(11):1854-61. |
| December 23, 2010 Are you anticipating several hours of shopping at the mall? Although the mall-a-thon may not be quite like a marathon, it is still important to maintain hydration and electrolyte status to successfully complete the event. |
| Consumer Link Endurance shoppers need nutrition plan, too |
| Research Link Scand J Med Sci Sports. 2010 Oct;20 Suppl 3:40-7. |
| December 22, 2010 Many food lists indicate that clams are a good iron source. Chopped and minced clam products however are actually very low in iron. Whole baby clam products that are generally rich in iron can contain excessive amounts of other minerals due to environmental conditions. |
| Consumer Link Finding iron-rich foods can be a difficult task |
| Research Link J Food Comp and Analysis. 2009;(22):S78-S82. |
| December 21, 2010 The increased risk of cancer sometimes associated with consuming meat may be related only to consuming high-fat and processed meats. Lean red meat provides a number of anticancer micronutrients including selenium and vitamins B6 and B12. Consuming lower fat meats along with plenty of veggies may contribute to reduced cancer risk. |
| Consumer Link Don't forget to eat your veggies |
| Research Link Meat Sci. 2010 Feb;84(2):308-13. Epub 2009 Jun 23. |
| December 20, 2010 Excessive alcohol consumption increases a person's requirement for thiamin (vitamin B-1). Symptoms associated with B-1 deficiency include: erratic eye movements, staggering gait and deranged mental functions. |
| Consumer Link B-1 deficiency causes serious health woes |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 1980 Dec;33(12):2750-61. |
| December 19, 2010 Strength training is especially beneficial for people over 65 years of age. Besides strengthening the muscles, strength training appears to benefit the brain as well and requires just once a week on an ongoing basis. |
| Consumer Link Strength training keeps seniors’ wits sharp: Study |
| Research Link Arch Intern Med. 2010;170(22):2036-2038. |
| December 18, 2010 For most of us, holiday eating tends to be higher in fat and calories than how we eat the rest of the year. Maintaining modest amounts of fruit and vegetables in the diet can help to reduce the potential short-term adverse effects of high-fat meals on the cardiovascular system. |
| Consumer Link Switch from fat phobia to fat smarts |
| Research Link J Am Coll Cardiol. 2003 May 21;41(10):1744-9. |
| December 17, 2010 Parents have a strong influence on how a child feels about their body image. Especially during the holidays, parents should be careful about how they verbalize concerns about overeating of holiday goodies. |
| Consumer Link Criticism may trigger eating disorders |
| Research Link Eur Eat Disord Rev. 2009 Mar;17(2):137-51 |
| December 16, 2010 Home canned foods can be very special holiday gifts with that personal touch. Just remember that food canning is a science, not an art. Getting too creative could result in an unforgettable gift – not in a good way. |
| Consumer Link Homemade holiday food baskets may give gift of botulism |
| Research Link J Food Prot. 2010 May;73(5):993-1002. |
| December 15, 2010 A study conducted on 8 to 10 year-old children in Hong Kong found that the children who consumed the least fluid and least liked eating fruits and vegetables were more than 10 times as likely to have constipation. |
| Consumer Link Children Who Don't Like Fruit And Vegetables Are 13 Times More Likely To Be Constipated |
| Research Link J Clin Nurs. 2010 Dec;19(23-24):3390-400. |
| December 14, 2010 When cutting calories for weight loss, it is important to not cut calories from protein. In fact, protein needs actually increase on a low calorie diet. |
| Consumer Link Protein really is a prescription for weight loss |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 2004 Dec;23(6 Suppl):631S-636S. |
| December 13, 2010 Cold and flu viruses often spread when people get together for the holidays. Hot chicken soup can help treat the symptoms by known anti-inflammatory effects and by temporarily increasing the flow of mucus. |
| Consumer Link Cold remedies: What works, what doesn't, what can't hurt |
| Research Link Chest. 2009 Nov;136(5 Suppl):e29. |
| December 12, 2010 Cranberries tend to be consumed as a holiday food. However, research on the chemical components of cranberries indicates that there are good reasons to consume these berries year-round. |
| Consumer Link Festive cranberries offer health perks year-round |
| Research Link Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2010 Aug;50(7):666-79. |
| December 11, 2010 Children and teenagers who participate in organized sports frequently do not get enough physical activity to meet national recommendations for at least 60 minutes a day of moderate to vigorous physical activity. Parents should strive to provide additional opportunities for their children to be physically active. |
| Consumer Link Kids active only about half of time in sports practices |
| Research Link Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2010 Dec 6. [Epub ahead of print] |
| December 10, 2010 Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is a compound in milk that is associated with decreased risk for heart disease and diabetes. Maybe this is why Santa likes milk with his cookies. |
| Consumer Link Why Santa needs milk and cookies |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2004 Oct;80(4):887-95. |
| December 9, 2010 Compression stockings are commonly used to treat health problems related to poor circulation in the lower legs. Endurance athletes use similar stockings and there is evidence that their use can enhance certain types of sports performance and promote recovery from workouts. |
| Consumer Link Athletes hope stockings can improve blood flow |
| Research Link J Strength Cond Res. 2009 Jan;23(1):101-5. |
| December 8, 2010 The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases released their first ever set of guidelines for diagnosis and management of food allergy. These standards have been much needed by clinicians. The guidelines should help to avoid depriving children and adults of foods that have been improperly identified as allergenic. |
| Consumer Link Food allergy guidelines urge doctors to be thorough |
| Research Link Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Food Allergy in the United States |
| December 7, 2010 People who eat a diet rich in vitamin B12 may be protecting themselves from developing Alzheimer's disease. Vitamin B12 is found in eggs, fish, poultry and red meats or can be obtained in specially fortified foods and dietary supplements. |
| Consumer Link Can Vitamin B12 Reduce Alzheimer's Risk? |
| Research Link J Alzheimers Dis. 2010;19(2):481-8. |
| December 6, 2010 The vitamin D Recommended Dietary Allowances are set to be adequate for the average healthy person. These recommendations may not meet the needs of high risk seniors such as those who are obese, have osteoporosis, or have limited sun exposure. The International Osteoporosis Foundation recommends greater amounts of vitamin D for these individuals. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin D Intakes Recommended by the IOM Adequate for Most Average Risk Seniors, However IOF Advises Higher Daily Intakes for High Risk Seniors |
| Research Link IOF position statement: vitamin D recommendations for older adults. |
| December 5, 2010 Regular exercise is an important component for the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes. Federal guidelines and a position statement from the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Diabetes Association recommend at least 150 minutes of aerobic exercise a week. |
| Consumer Link Diabetics should exercise 150 minutes a week |
| Research Link Med Sci Sports Exer. 2010;42(12):2282-2303. |
| December 4, 2010 People often skip meals as they get busy. Remember, fasting is a strong headache trigger, especially among chronic headache sufferers. |
| Consumer Link Diet may play part in your headaches |
| Research Link Neurology. 1995 Nov;45(11):1953-5. |
| December 3, 2010 The new daily calcium intakes recommended by the Institute of Medicine are essentially the same as those released 13 years ago but they now are firmly supported by 13 more years of research. |
| Consumer Link Got Expert? Nutrition Professor Discusses New Calcium Guidelines |
| Research Link Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium and Vitamin D |
| December 2, 2010 There are trillions of bacterial organisms living in the lower part of the human intestine. A balanced diet helps this "microbiota" protect us against infections, some cancers, and may even play a role in the prevention of obesity. |
| Consumer Link Useful bacteria build intestine’s fortitude |
| Research Link Gastroenterology. 2009 Jan;136(1):65-80. |
| December 1, 2010 Yesterday the Institute of Medicine recommended a moderate increase in daily vitamin D intake. The non-profit Vitamin D Council considers these recommendations to be much too low because the Institute based their recommendation on bone health rather than considering the many other functions of vitamin D. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin D Guidelines Edge Upwards, But Most Americans Getting Enough:Report |
| Research Link Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium and Vitamin D |
| November 30, 2010 Exclusively breast-fed infants should be given an iron supplement starting at 4 months of age. The supplement should provide 1 mg of iron per kg body weight per day until the infant is consuming an adequate amount of iron-rich foods. |
| Consumer Link Protect your child from iron deficiency |
| Research Link Pediatrics. 2010 Nov;126(5):1040-50. |
| November 29, 2010 Most of the so-called energy drinks provide real energy (calories) in the form of sugar and perceived energy from the effects of caffeine on the brain. |
| Consumer Link Energy Drinks |
| Research Link Drug Alcohol Depend. 2009 Jan 1;99(1-3):1-10. |
| November 28, 2010 Supplementation with vitamin C does not generally decrease the risk of catching a cold. However, research does indicate that vitamin C supplementation can reduce the risk of colds for people exposed to extreme physical stresses like running a marathon. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin C can halve cold risk during strain |
| Research Link Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2007 Jul 18;(3):CD000980. |
| November 27, 2010 Gastroenteritis (inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract) caused by E. coli and campylobacter bacterial infections may have long-term effects. A recent study reported increased risk of hypertension, impaired kidney function, and cardiovascular disease in people who had previously suffered from these types of infections. |
| Consumer Link Gastroenteritis may be over in a few days, but the consequences can linger for years |
| Research Link BMJ. 2010 Nov 17;341:c6020. |
| November 26, 2010 Many studies have reported a reduced risk of chronic disease in people who eat more fruits and vegetables. Researchers initially expected this was due to increased beta-carotene intake. However, recent research indicates that alpha-carotene may be the protective factor. Like beta-carotene, alpha carotene is found in many yellow-orange and dark green fruits and vegetables. |
| Consumer Link High Alpha-Carotene Levels Associated With Longer Life |
| Research Link Arch Intern Med [ePub online November 22, 2010] |
| November 25, 2010 Meeting protein needs is especially important as we age. When protein needs are not met, the much too common geriatric condition of sarcopenia (loss of muscle) can develop. By starting the day with high protein foods, a person is more likely to obtain the protein they need. |
| Consumer Link Age exerts major effect on healthy body weight |
| Research Link Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2009 Jan;12(1):86-90 |
| November 24, 2010 The most common conditions linked to chronically low magnesium intake include high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and osteoporosis. Spinach, nuts, seeds, beans, and brown rice are all reasonable sources of magnesium. |
| Consumer Link Brown rice can provide vital magnesium |
| Research Link Magnes Res. 2009 Dec;22(4):235-46. |
| November 23, 2010 Along with the Thanksgiving holiday approaching, there is good news from a recent survey by the American Dietetic Association. Since 2003, the number of families daily eating meals together at home increased from 52 to 73 percent. |
| Consumer Link The importance of dinner together — not just at Thanksgiving, but every day |
| Research Link American Dietetic Association Press Release |
| November 22, 2010 With Thanksgiving dinner preparations, it is important to remember that we are each at the end of the food safety chain from farm to fork. Let's keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold for a happy holiday! |
| Consumer Link 10 steps to avoid Tom Turkey's revenge |
| Research Link Food Safety and Inspection Service |
| November 21, 2010 Older individuals who wear dentures tend to consume fewer servings of fruits and vegetables than those with teeth. Food service for older people should include soft foods and juices rich in carotenoids and vitamin C. |
| Consumer Link Nutritional requirements more complex for seniors |
| Research Link J Public Health Dent. 2009 Fall;69(4):207-16. |
| November 20, 2010 The phytochemical lycopene found in tomatoes is associated with a reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration in the retina of the eye. The best absorbed sources include commonly used tomato sauce and catsup. |
| Consumer Link Tomatoes prove their worthiness |
| Research Link Can Med Assoc J. 2000 Sep 19;163(6):739-44. |
| November 19, 2010 Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) appears to be increasing in the U.S. population. Researchers have proposed many potential causes, including nutrient deficiencies in zinc, iron, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids. |
| Consumer Link Increasing Prevalence of Parent-Reported ADHD Among Children --- United States, 2003 and 2007. |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2008 Oct;66(10):558-68. |
| November 18, 2010 Controlled studies report that drinking water before meals can decrease calorie intake during the meal and enhance attempts to lose weight. At the very least, this is a simple and harmless practice with potential benefits. |
| Consumer Link The Claim: Drinking Water Before Meals Aids Weight Loss |
| Research Link Obesity (Silver Spring). 2010 Feb;18(2):300-7. |
| November 17, 2010 Iron needs for physically active individuals may be 30% greater than the needs of their less active friends. Meeting iron needs with food sources of well-absorbed iron is important for overall health. In general, iron is absorbed better from animal foods than from plant foods. |
| Consumer Link Iron - Micronutrient Information Center |
| Research Link Dietary Reference Intakes - Food & Nutrition Board |
| November 16, 2010 The calories used to walk a mile depend mostly on a person's body weight. However, for two people weighing the same, the shorter person will typically use slightly more calories – about one extra calorie (kcal) per mile for each inch difference in height. |
| Consumer Link Take that, Stretch! Short people burn more calories walking |
| Research Link J Exp Biol. 2010;213:3972-3979. |
| November 15, 2010 What causes food allergies in infants is not well understood. A recent study found that the women who ate the most peanuts during pregnancy were the most likely to have infants that developed peanut allergies. |
| Consumer Link Eating peanuts while pregnant may raise kid's allergy risks |
| Research Link J Allergy Clin Immunol 2010 Oct 27. [Epub ahead of print] |
| November 14, 2010 Doctors often encourage their patients to become "educated consumers" of their medical care and personal health problems. Remember when seeking medical information through the Internet that many website offer medical fiction rather than fact. Seek reliable science-based websites. |
| Consumer Link False claims thrive on Internet |
| Research Link Indian J Med Sci. 2004 Aug;58(8):321-6. |
| November 13, 2010 Staying in shape takes a lot less effort than getting into shape. Therefore maintain at least a small amount of exercise to prevent rapid fat gain. |
| Consumer Link Abrupt decline in exercise shows up in body fat gain |
| Research Link Obesity (Silver Spring). 2006 Nov;14(11):1975-84. |
| November 12, 2010 True food allergies can be life threatening, but it is important to know that in a controlled clinical setting, almost 90% of children previously diagnosed with food allergies actually were not allergic to the supposedly offending foods when tested with an oral food challenge test. |
| Consumer Link Study suggests over-diagnosis of food allergy in children |
| Research Link J Pediatr. 2010 Oct 27. [Epub ahead of print] |
| November 11, 2010 Based on four studies conducted before 2007, the American Institute for Cancer Research stated that there was "limited evidence from sparse and inconsistent studies suggesting that processed meat is a cause of prostate cancer." However, a recent "meta-analysis" of 26 studies found that the consumption of red meat or processed meat had no positive association with the occurrence of prostate cancer. |
| Consumer Link No red or processed meat link to prostate cancer: Meta-analysis |
| Research Link Nutrition Journal 2010, 9:50. |
| November 10, 2010 Iron needs for physically active individuals can be as much as 30% greater than the needs of their less active friends. Consuming food sources of well-absorbed iron is important for overall health. In general, iron is absorbed better from animal foods than from plant foods. |
| Consumer Link Iron - Micronutrient Information Center |
| Research Link Dietary Reference Intakes - Food & Nutrition Board |
| November 9, 2010 Daily exercise provides clear health benefits, but high intensity and very long duration exercise can create oxidative stress in the body. To facilitate the body's adaptation to this oxidative stress, consume recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables for their antioxidant benefits. |
| Consumer Link Marathon runners deplete vitamins, raise oxidative stress |
| Research Link Free Radic Biol Med. 2001 Oct 1;31(7):911-22. |
| November 8, 2010 Although increased fluid and sodium needs are associated with hot weather and exercise, remember the flu can cause an increased internal temperature that requires increased fluid as well. |
| Consumer Link Fluid needs rise with temperature |
| Research Link J Occup Med Toxicol. 2008 Jan 29;3:4. |
| November 7, 2010 A balanced breakfast with a mixture of protein, carbohydrate, and fat can help to avoid that mid-morning dive in mental focus and the pre-lunch surge in appetite that are more likely to follow a high carbohydrate breakfast. |
| Consumer Link Premium breakfast fuels a better day |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2006 Feb;83(2):211-20. |
| November 6, 2010 There has been considerable debate about how much protein a person needs during their last decade or two of life. Recent studies, however, indicate that for optimal health, protein needs increase somewhat during these years. |
| Consumer Link Muscle is also important as a major protein reserve |
| Research Link J Am Geriatr Soc. 2009 Jun;57(6):1073-9. |
| November 5, 2010 Too much or too little of some nutrients can change the senses of taste and smell. For example, a deficient or imbalanced intake of iron or zinc can eventually impair normal sensitivity to flavors and odors. |
| Consumer Link Balanced living keeps senses sharp |
| Research Link Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2010 Jul;136(7):673-6. |
| November 4, 2010 Gallstone disease can cause extreme pain and require surgery. Risk of developing gallstones is greatly increased by prolonged fasting or rapid weight loss. Risk is decreased by consuming adequate calories, exercising regularly, and eating recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables. |
| Consumer Link Painful stones gall many U.S. adults |
| Research Link Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol. 2006;20(6):1063-73. |
| November 3, 2010 Vitamins in dietary supplements degrade more rapidly in a moist environment like the bathroom medicine cabinet. Store unopened vitamin supplements in the refrigerator. When ready to use, let the bottle warm to room temperature before opening and then store in a dry place at room temperature when the bottle is being opened on a daily basis. |
| Consumer Link The Claim: Always Store Vitamins in the Medicine Cabinet |
| Research Link J Agric Food Chem. 2010 Mar 24;58(6):3532-40. |
| November 2, 2010 Red yeast rice supplements are taken by many people to lower blood cholesterol levels. Unfortunately, chemical analysis of 12 commercial preparations showed that the amount of active compounds varied greatly with the highest product containing 35 times as much as the lowest. Possibly of greater concern, four products contained a liver toxin. |
| Consumer Link Red Yeast Rice Supplements Vary in Potency |
| Research Link Arch Intern Med. 2010;170(19):1722-1727. |
| November 1, 2010 Based on a mouse study, consuming white button mushrooms can enhance potentially beneficial immune system function. |
| Consumer Link Researchers Study Benefits of White Button Mushrooms |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2008 Mar;138(3):544-550. |
| October 31, 2010 Got heartburn? To avoid symptoms while sleeping, don't eat close to bedtime and consider adding a slight incline to your bed to raise the upper body. Also, sleeping on the left side causes less symptoms than sleeping on the right side. |
| Consumer Link The Claim: Lying on Your Left Side Eases Heartburn |
| Research Link Am J Gastroenterol. 2000 Oct;95(10):2731-6. |
| October 30, 2010 Rather that a focus on short-term weight loss goals, a long-term focus on developing fitness is more likely to deliver health benefits. Many disease risks associated with excess body weight, such as cardiovascular disease, are greatly reduced by regular physical activity even without weight loss. |
| Consumer Link Worry about fitness, not fat |
| Research Link Handb Exp Pharmacol. 2005;(170):137-63. |
| October 29, 2010 Fresh produce that is consumed raw or lightly cooked can have a risk of foodborne illness. Like other types of produce, fresh sprouts, including organic sprouts, may become contaminated by pathogenic microorganisms. Individuals with compromised immune systems can still enjoy sprouts if they are cooked before eating. |
| Consumer Link Sprouts: What You Should Know |
| Research Link Int J Food Microbiol. 1999 Nov 15;52(3):123-53. |
| October 28, 2010 Vitamin D is known to be important for healthy bones. More recent research shows vitamin D also is essential for many other physiological functions, such as a strong immune system. |
| Consumer Link Is vitamin D deficiency casting a cloud over your health? |
| Research Link Br J Nutr. 2007 Oct;98 Suppl 1:S29-35. |
| October 27, 2010 Caffeine is considered to be the most commonly consumed drug in the world. Among other bits of good news from research on coffee, moderate consumption appears to reduce the risk of developing liver and gallstone diseases. |
| Consumer Link In moderation, caffeine found to aid health |
| Research Link Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2006;46(2):101-23. |
| October 26, 2010 Studies on bone health report that a low protein diet can be as bad for bones as a low calcium diet. A balanced diet with adequate protein, calcium, and all other nutrients helps to avoid osteoporosis. |
| Consumer Link Healthy bones need protein |
| Research Link Annu Rev Nutr. 2008;28:131-55. |
| October 25, 2010 Evidence continues to support eating the recommended amount of vegetables to reduce chronic disease risk. The adult recommendation for 2 to 3 cups of vegetables a day assumes that the vegetables are consumed as part of an overall balanced diet with all food groups included. |
| Consumer Link Collards and carrots may thwart breast cancer |
| Research Link Am J Epidemiol. 2010 Oct 11. [Epub ahead of print] |
| October 24, 2010 Pagophagy is the medical term for the drive to consume copious amounts of ice. People with this condition frequently are deficient in iron and correcting the deficiency eliminates the craving. |
| Consumer Link With this eating disorder, 1 theory does not fit all |
| Research Link Annu Rev Nutr. 2010 Aug 21;30:403-22. |
| October 23, 2010 Decreasing salt in your diet and increasing high potassium foods may or may not reduce your blood pressure. Researchers are working toward finding the specific genes that can help to identify those who are salt sensitive. |
| Consumer Link Study suggests genetic mechanisms for blood pressure and salt intake |
| Research Link J Hum Hypertens. 2010 Sep 23. [Epub ahead of print] |
| October 22, 2010 Vitamin B12 deficiency can damage nerve cells and lead to memory loss similar to Alzheimer’s disease. Recent research suggests that maintaining adequate B12 levels in the body may help to prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Adequate B12 status also helps to prevent the misdiagnosis of B12 deficiency as Alzheimer’s disease. |
| Consumer Link Can Vitamin B12 Reduce Alzheimer's Risk? |
| Research Link Neurology 2010;75:1408-1414. |
| October 21, 2010 Treatment of the eating disorder anorexia nervosa requires normalizing nutrition for psychological complications to resolve. Recent research shows that involving family members as a component in the treatment process can improve successful recovery. |
| Consumer Link Bringing in family to combat anorexia |
| Research Link Arch Gen Psychiatry. 2010 Oct;67(10):1025-32. |
| October 20, 2010 The "Got Nutrients?" October 17th tip warned about a serious error rapidly spreading on the Internet that recommended excessively high iron intake for infants. The original source of this error was a press release that has now been corrected and can be viewed at today's consumer link. It will take awhile to get this error corrected elsewhere on the web. |
| Consumer Link AAP Offers Guidance to Boost Iron Levels in Children |
| Research Link Pediatrics. 2010 Oct 5. |
| October 19, 2010 Iodized salt is the major source of essential iodine in many people’s diets. When salt is restricted in the diet, alternative sources of iodine need to be included to avoid iodine deficiency and thyroid problems. Food sources include seafood and foods from plants grown near the ocean. |
| Consumer Link Salt restriction could increase risk of iodine deficiency |
| Research Link Am J Hypertens. 2010 Oct;23(10):1095-102. |
| October 18, 2010 Foodborne illness remains a persistent problem causing more than 5,000 deaths in the United States each year. As football season and tailgating roll into full swing, don’t forget to keep foods safe by keeping hot foods hot and cold foods cold. Always store perishables foods at 40 degrees F or below. |
| Consumer Link Food Safety Tips for Tailgating |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2010 May;68(5):257-69. |
| October 17, 2010 An article, “Pediatricians Issue New Iron Guidelines,” released by HealthDay news service, contains a dangerous error recommending a toxic level of iron (11 mg of iron per kg body weight per day) for infants age 6 months to a year rather than 11 mg per day as cited by the researchers. This misinformation is now on many websites including government sites. |
| Consumer Link Toxicity, Iron |
| Research Link Pediatrics. 2010 Oct 5. |
| October 16, 2010 It is estimated that iron deficiency affects as much as 15 percent of infants and toddlers up to the age of 3 in the United States. Unfortunately, iron deficiency during this life stage can have irreversible adverse effects on cognitive and behavioral development. |
| Consumer Link Pediatricians Issue New Iron Guidelines |
| Research Link Pediatrics. 2010 Oct 5. [Epub ahead of print] |
| October 15, 2010 Researchers find that teens and young adults with eating disorders frequently attempt to hide their condition under the guise of a vegetarian diet. |
| Consumer Link Not Always So Healthy Experts link vegetarianism to possible eating disorders |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2009 Apr;109(4):648-55. |
| October 14, 2010 Consuming adequate dietary fiber requires including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes in the diet. However, too much fiber can reduce the ability to absorb essential minerals like calcium, iron, and zinc. Good health is a matter of balance, not extremes. |
| Consumer Link Balancing the facts on fiber |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2002 May;60(5 Pt 1):127-34. |
| October 13, 2010 Hair loss in women is often caused by a diet that is too low in iron and the amino acid lysine. Rich sources of lysine include poultry, fish, and lean red meat. Red meat also is a good source of iron. |
| Consumer Link Hair loss in women has contributing factors |
| Research Link Clin Exp Dermatol. 2002 Jul;27(5):396-404. |
| October 12, 2010 If you take a fish oil supplement, don't exceed the product's dosage directions. Some studies have reported that taking excessive amounts of fish oil on a regular basis could impair immune function and increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke due to a blood-thinning effect. |
| Consumer Link A diet of only good foods is impossible |
| Research Link Clin Nutr. 1993 Dec;12(6):321-8. |
| October 11, 2010 People with cancer often need to follow diets different from what they believe is healthy. Plenty of protein and calories can be needed to keep up strength and rebuild tissues harmed by cancer treatment. Ask your physician to refer you to a dietitian for help. |
| Consumer Link Eating Hints: Before, During, and After Cancer Treatment |
| Research Link CA Cancer J Clin. 2006 Nov-Dec;56(6):323-53. |
| October 10, 2010 Research indicates that three 10-minute walks may be just as beneficial to health as one 30-minute walk. If your are just getting back into exercise, you can start with one10-minute walk and build up to three a day. |
| Consumer Link Burn calories without burning out |
| Research Link Sports Med. 2009;39(1):29-43. |
| October 9, 2010 Vitamin B6, b12 and folate may be extremely important for protecting your brain from the typical damage that occurs with aging. A rich source of all three of these nutrients is liver. |
| Consumer Link B vitamins help combat the brain drain of aging |
| Research Link PLoS One. 2010; 5(9): e12244. |
| October 8, 2010 Most Americans consume only 75 to 80 % of the magnesium recommended for long term health. Green vegetables, beans, and whole grains (including brown rice), are good food sources of magnesium. |
| Consumer Link Brown rice can provide vital magnesium |
| Research Link Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2008 Apr 15;105(15):5768-73. |
| October 7, 2010 Normal nerve development in infants requires adequate iodine from mother's milk or infant formula. Dietary iodine comes primarily from iodized salt. Therefore, if you are limiting salt intake, make sure your dietary supplement contains iodine. |
| Consumer Link Researchers fear deficiency of iodine intake |
| Research Link Environ Sci Technol. 2008 Feb 15;42(4):1315-23. |
| October 6, 2010 Studies on coffee and caffeine have identified some encouraging links to specific health benefits. Although these types of studies can't prove cause and effect, they do indicate that coffee drinkers have a decreased risk for conditions like type 2 diabetes, Parkinson's disease, liver disease, Alzheimer's disease and colorectal cancer. |
| Consumer Link Moderate amount of coffee can be beneficial to health |
| Research Link Nutrition. 2010 Oct;26(10):932-8. |
| October 5, 2010 Vitamin D is important for a healthy immune system and may be especially important as we enter into flu season. Recent research indicates that even those with seemingly adequate sun exposure may be low in vitamin D. Good sources of vitamin D include fatty fish, fortified milk, and dietary supplements. |
| Consumer Link Holiday flu could be caused by a shortage of vitamin D |
| Research Link J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2007 Jun;92(6):2130-5. |
| October 4, 2010 Despite extensive media attention to high fructose corn syrup, it is not likely the major contributor to obesity and related health problems. Increased consumption of vegetable oils and cereal products have added a significant amount of calories to an increasingly sedentary lifestyle. |
| Consumer Link Is high fructose corn syrup making us fat? |
| Research Link Physiol Rev. 2010 Jan;90(1):23-46. |
| October 3, 2010 Consuming a diet with adequate protein is important for bone health. |
| Consumer Link Proper protein is necessary |
| Research Link Nutr Metab (Lond). 2009 Mar 13;6:12. |
| October 2, 2010 Sarcopenia is the age-related loss of muscle mass and strength resulting in frailty in the elderly. Exercise and adequate protein helps to slow this aging process. |
| Consumer Link Age exerts major effect on healthy body weight |
| Research Link J Nutr Biochem. 2010 Jan;21(1):1-13. Epub 2009 Oct 1. |
| October 1, 2010 Both increased exercise and cutting calories can increase protein needs. Consequently, when attempting to lose weight with exercise or diet, care should be taken to maintain an adequate intake of high protein foods. Calorie cutting should focus on foods high in carbohydrate and fat -- not protein. |
| Consumer Link Men, women respond differently to exercise |
| Research Link Obesity (Silver Spring). 2010 Sep;18(9):1725-32. |
| September 30, 2010 People with diabetes can make major improvements in their condition with the right type of exercise and diet. Diabetic athletes are best managed individually by a team of medical professionals including the athletic trainer, sports nutritionist, and physician. |
| Consumer Link Exercise helps treat diabetes |
| Research Link Clin Sports Med. 2009 Jul;28(3):479-95. |
| September 29, 2010 Modern sedentary lifestyles may be the major cause of many common health problems. Find fun physical activities to increase your calorie needs. Being able to eat more food to meet higher calorie needs also increases the intake of essential nutrients and other beneficial food components. |
| Consumer Link Too bad we can't put exercise in a pill |
| Research Link Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act. 2006 Jul 19;3:17. |
| September 28, 2010 Although vitamin B12 deficiency is common in those over 65 years of age, the deficiency often goes unrecognized because of its subtle clinical symptoms. Taking a preventive B-12 supplement is recommended for those entering their sixth or seventh decades of life. |
| Consumer Link Remember B-12 for healthy aging |
| Research Link QJM. 2009 Jan;102(1):17-28. Epub 2008 Nov 5. |
| September 27, 2010 Despite increasing rates of overweight and obesity, the current medical system typically allows little time for physicians to counsel patients about weight management. Those with weight problems should request referrals to meet with qualified nutrition and fitness professionals. |
| Consumer Link City-Dwelling Women Face Diet And Exercise Challenges |
| Research Link Obstet Gynecol. 2010 Oct;116(4):1011-4. |
| September 26, 2010 For middle-age adults, the overall risk of death is greatest for the thinnest and the heaviest. Individuals in the middle weight range have the lowest risk. However, for people over 75, those with the most body fat are most likely to survive hospitalization. |
| Consumer Link Age exerts major effect on healthy body weight |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2009 Sep;90(3):505-10. |
| September 25, 2010 Carbohydrate is a food component that provides sugar (glucose) required by the brain. In a balanced diet, some of this glucose comes directly from sugars, but most of it comes from the digestion of starchy foods such as rice, potatoes, bread, and pasta. |
| Consumer Link Sweeten life with sugar in moderation |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2003 Oct;78(4):893S-897S. |
| September 24, 2010 The three components of the "Female Athlete Triad" are disordered eating, disrupted menstrual cycle and osteoporosis. The disordered eating component is mainly related to low calorie intake and poor food selection. The inadequate calorie intake can be inadvertent, intentional or psychopathological. |
| Consumer Link 'Female athlete triad' hurts performance and health |
| Research Link Conn Med. 1999 Nov;63(11):647-52. |
| September 23, 2010 To decrease your risk of cancer, scientific studies support eating a wide variety of foods, including vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans and nuts, as well as lower-fat milk products, lean meats, poultry, fish. |
| Consumer Link Milk contains anti-cancer nutrients |
| Research Link Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2005 Dec;14(12):2898-904. |
| September 22, 2010 Vitamin A is needed for normal growth, reproduction, bone health, blood cell production, skin health and immune function, but too much vitamin A (just 2 to 3 times the current recommended vitamin A intake) has been linked to increased bone loss and birth defects. |
| Consumer Link Too much vitamin A can be toxic |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2007 Oct;65(10):425-38. |
| September 21, 2010 In a healthy person, intestinal bacteria help to protect the body against invasion by disease-causing bacteria. Eating a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains helps to support a beneficial bacterial ecology in the lower intestine. |
| Consumer Link Useful bacteria build intestine’s fortitude |
| Research Link PLoS One. 2010 May 17;5(5):e10667. |
| September 20, 2010 Dehydration can adversely affect many body functions, especially in older adults. Even something as basic as balance can be impaired, leading to an increased risk of falling. |
| Consumer Link Lower risk of falling with good nutrition |
| Research Link Eur J Clin Nutr. 2010 Feb;64(2):115-23. |
| September 19, 2010 The most common kidney stones are calcium oxalate. Interestingly, low calcium diets increase the risk of forming these stones, apparently because more oxalate is absorbed from the diet when dietary calcium is low. |
| Consumer Link This Too Shall Pass: Avoid Kidney Stones Through Diet |
| Research Link Clin J Am Soc Nephrol. 2010 Sep 16. [Epub ahead of print] |
| September 18, 2010 Marginal-to-moderate magnesium deficiency may play a role in high blood pressure and conditions associated with inflammatory stress. Boost magnesium in your diet by including green vegetables, beans, and whole grains. |
| Consumer Link Brown rice can provide vital magnesium |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2010 Jun;68(6):333-40. |
| September 17, 2010 The safe use of a multi-vitamin/mineral supplement depends on its nutrient formulation and your overall diet. Some dietary supplements may exceed safe levels for certain nutrients; if you also eat fortified foods, you may be at greater risk of exceeding safe limits for some nutrients. |
| Consumer Link Is a multivitamin a smart idea? |
| Research Link How much is too much? |
| September 16, 2010 Our brain is a major part of our human individuality. Without adequate nutrition, many mental functions can be compromised. Consuming a balanced diet with all essential nutrients supports a healthy mind that can help us to fully express our uniqueness. |
| Consumer Link Feed your brain for best performance |
| Research Link J Nutr Health Aging. 2006 Sep-Oct;10(5):377-85. |
| September 15, 2010 Exercise programs can be effective in treating anxiety disorders and depression. This may not mean swapping professional treatment for a pair of running shoes, but daily exercise is likely to enhance the effects of other therapies. |
| Consumer Link Exercise for physical, mental fitness |
| Research Link Nord J Psychiatry. 2008;62 Suppl 47:25-9. |
| September 14, 2010 People with type 1 and type 2 diabetes often have low blood levels of thiamin (vitamin B-1). This is likely due to increased daily loss of thiamin in the urine. Foods rich in thiamin include pork, nuts, fish, soybeans, and enriched grain products. |
| Consumer Link B-1 deficiency causes serious health woes |
| Research Link Curr Diabetes Rev. 2005 Aug;1(3):287-98. |
| September 13, 2010 Taking high levels of dietary supplements may be beneficial in states of nutrient insufficiency, however consuming ample amounts of a wide variety of foods is a safer route to health. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin limits hard to set |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2009 May;89(5):1543S-1548S. |
| September 12, 2010 Keeping a wide variety of foods in the diet is extremely important, even for the prevention of hypothyroidism. Excessive consumption of cruciferous (cabbage family) vegetables, soy products, and millet can interfere with thyroid hormone production. |
| Consumer Link Iron plays an important role for the thyroid |
| Research Link Endocr Rev. 2009 Jun;30(4):376-408. Epub 2009 May 21. |
| September 11, 2010 Some medications can decrease the ability to absorb a nutrient. For example, drugs that decrease stomach acid can reduce the ability to absorb vitamin B-12 from foods and a supplemental source of vitamin B-12 is needed. |
| Consumer Link Pills take aim at heartburn's chronic pain |
| Research Link Ann Pharmacother. 2002 May;36(5):812-6. |
| September 10, 2010 Both human and animal studies have shown that abruptly stopping an exercise habit results in rapid gain in body fat. Staying active at a reduced level, however, does not seem to have much effect on body fat. |
| Consumer Link Abrupt decline in exercise shows up in body fat gain |
| Research Link Obesity (Silver Spring). 2006 Nov;14(11):1975-84. |
| September 9, 2010 A woman's bones are designed to handle the demands of pregnancy as long as her diet has an adequate supply of all nutrients (especially calcium). |
| Consumer Link Childbearing strains mom's calcium level |
| Research Link Endocrinology. 2010 Mar;151(3):886-95. |
| September 8, 2010 Breast cancer risk does not seem to be linked to any specific types of foods in the diet. Moderating risk appears to involve consuming a wide variety of foods in moderate amounts from among all types of foods. However, excessive alcohol consumption and excess body weight are both linked to increased breast cancer risk. |
| Consumer Link Milk contains anti-cancer nutrients |
| Research Link Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol. 2009 Feb;21(1):80-5. |
| September 7, 2010 Vitamin D plays important roles in the function of the immune system. Avoiding sun exposure may benefit skin health, but a lack of sunshine does increase your need for food or dietary supplement sources of vitamin D. |
| Consumer Link Holiday flu could be caused by a shortage of vitamin D |
| Research Link Epidemiol Infect. 2006 Dec;134(6):1129-40. |
| September 6, 2010 Both low carbohydrate/high fat and low fat/high carbohydrate diets have been shown to promote weight loss when calories are controlled. However, some research indicates that high fat diets may adversely affect the flexibility of arteries. |
| Consumer Link Here's the skinny on cutting fat, carbs |
| Research Link Diabetes. 2009 Dec;58(12):2741-8. |
| September 5, 2010 Some people are so concerned with healthy eating that they have grown afraid of food. This condition, called “orthorexia nervosa,” can lead to a diet so narrow that it causes nutrient deficiencies that damage health. |
| Consumer Link Varied menu is the best path to good health |
| Research Link Arch Latinoam Nutr. 2007 Dec;57(4):313-5. |
| September 4, 2010 There may be something to the old saying, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away." Daily consumption of two apples or 12 ounces of apple juice was found to reduce oxidation of the "bad" low-density lipoproteins (LDL) in healthy men and women. |
| Consumer Link NY Apple Country Heart Health Study |
| Research Link J Med Food. 2000 Winter;3(4):159-66. |
| September 3, 2010 Body Mass Index, or BMI, is often used to assess a person’s fatness. However, it is a rather inaccurate estimate of an individual’s body fat. Decisions about the need to lose weight should not be based on BMI alone. |
| Consumer Link Weight Index Doesn’t Tell the Whole Truth |
| Research Link Int J Obes (Lond). 2008 Jun;32(6):959-66. |
| September 2, 2010 Sensitivity to thirst often declines with age. Therefore, consuming fluids on a schedule rather than when thirsty can become essential to maintain basic body functions such as adequate blood flow throughout the body and especially to the brain. |
| Consumer Link Nutritional requirements more complex for seniors |
| Research Link Arch Gerontol Geriatr. 2009;49 Suppl 1:19-27. |
| September 1, 2010 Although exercise is less likely to promote fat loss in women than in men, exercise does benefit health in both genders and allows both men and women to eat more calories without gaining weight. |
| Consumer Link Men, women respond differently to exercise |
| Research Link Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol. 2009 Feb;296(2):R233-42. |
| August 31, 2010 Does your job keep you too sedentary? Find ways to make many small extra movements throughout the day. Even simple fidgeting can add up to many extra calories burned. |
| Consumer Link Fit in fidgeting if you can't get exercise time |
| Research Link Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes. 2008 Oct;15(5):409-15. |
| August 30, 2010 Why do some people really like flavors that you don’t like? It may be in your genes. Some people are “supertasters” of specific flavors in foods, especially bitter flavors. |
| Consumer Link Genetics determines how we taste |
| Research Link Chem Senses. 2000 Aug;25(4):447-60. |
| August 29, 2010 Research on caffeine consumption and risk of cardiovascular disease often reports a potential benefit of caffeine rather than a risk. |
| Consumer Link Caffeine not linked to certain heart risks in women |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr 92: 509-514, 2010. |
| August 28, 2010 Some B vitamins are essential for energy metabolism, the process of utilizing the calories in carbohydrate, fat, and protien. Good sources of thiamin, riboflavin and niacin include whole and enriched grain products. |
| Consumer Link Water-Soluble Vitamins |
| Research Link USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference |
| August 27, 2010 Breakfast benefits brain function. Research has repeatedly indicated that cognitive function is better when breakfast is not skipped. This effect is most pronounced in children and teens. |
| Consumer Link Breakfast for a good start to day |
| Research Link Nutr Res Rev. 2009 Dec;22(2):220-43. |
| August 26, 2010 The link between food and health has been appreciated since at least the time of Hippocrates. Consuming an inadequate amount of even one essential nutrient can increase risk factors for disease. |
| Consumer Link Nutrition needed, even with ‘longevity gene’ |
| Research Link Nutr Health. 2009;20(2):135-66. |
| August 25, 2010 Depression and moodiness can result from nutrient deficiencies. In particular, deficient intake of folate, vitamins B-1, B-6, and B-12, iron, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids can adversely affect brain function. |
| Consumer Link Can nutrients affect your mood? |
| Research Link Biol Psychiatry. 2005 Nov 1;58(9):679-85. |
| August 24, 2010 Too much of a good thing can be bad. This applies to nutrients and even exercise. “Tolerable Upper Intake Levels” have been established for many nutrients to help people know how much is too much. |
| Consumer Link How much is too much? |
| Research Link Proc Nutr Soc. 2003 May;62(2):413-20. |
| August 23, 2010 Consuming the right balance of essential nutrients is the foundation for good health. These nutrients can be obtained from a balanced intake of a wide variety of foods. When diet is limited, proper use of nutritional supplements can be required to meet nutrient needs. |
| Consumer Link Balanced living keeps senses sharp |
| Research Link JAMA. 2005 Jul 20;294(3):351-8. |
| August 22, 2010 With summer coming to an end, it is important to stay physically active. This helps to maintain or achieve a healthy weight and decreases risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes. |
| Consumer Link Staying active can reduce diabetes risk in adulthood |
| Research Link Diabetes Res Clin Pract. 2005 Jun;68 Suppl1:S73-81. |
| August 21, 2010 Research indicates that vitamin C does not prevent colds, but it can help to reduce the duration and severity of common cold symptoms. |
| Consumer Link Take steps against colds |
| Research Link Scand J Infect Dis. 1994;26(1):1-6. |
| August 20, 2010 Unscrupulous sellers of nutritional products often use marketing techniques that prey on our basic fears and desires under the guise of having scientific evidence for their product. Too often the "evidence" is just contrived pseudoscience. |
| Consumer Link Pseudoscience formula helps sell bogus products |
| Research Link Creating Your Own Pseudoscience |
| August 19, 2010 Methods of processing and preparation can affect the nutrient content of foods. For example, fresh tender bitter melon leafy tips are an excellent source of vitamin C and beta-carotene. However, during cooking a large amount of vitamin C is lost. |
| Consumer Link Foods used by Filipinos in Hawaii (14 MB) |
| Research Link J Food Sci. 2009 Aug;74(6):C441-8. |
| August 18, 2010 Too little good sleep can affect the balance and function of several hormones in ways that stimulate appetite, trigger cravings and affect the regulation of blood sugar in the body. This may be why inadequate sleep is associated with weight gain and diabetes. |
| Consumer Link Getting good night's sleep can ease health ailments |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2010 Jun;91(6):1550-9. |
| August 17, 2010 Low blood levels of vitamin D are more common in obese individuals. This fat soluble vitamin accumulates in fat cells and may be less available to meet the body's needs. Consequently, obese individuals appear to require more vitamin D than their leaner friends. |
| Consumer Link Overweight people need fat-soluble vitamins |
| Research Link Am J Med. 2009 Nov;122(11):1056-60. |
| August 16, 2010 Alternative “cures” for cancer can be very tempting to cancer patients. However, opting for questionable therapies can be very risky and can delay evidence-based treatments to the point that they may no longer be effective. |
| Consumer Link How Quackery Harms Cancer Patients |
| Research Link Ir Med J. 2008 Mar;101(3):82-4. |
| August 15, 2010 If you are starting up a new exercise program, remember that joints take longer than muscles to adapt to the stresses of exercise. So, gear up gradually to avoid damaging your joints. |
| Consumer Link Too fast, too furious exercise is ‘pain, no gain' |
| Research Link Br Med Bull. 1992 Jul;48(3):668-82. |
| August 14, 2010 If you are thinking that a nutritional product’s claims are “too good to be true,” try conducting an Internet search using the product’s name and terms like “scam” and “ripoff.” This can yield interesting and useful information. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin O marketers full of hot air |
| Research Link Int J Toxicol. 2003 Sep-Oct;22(5):387-90. |
| August 13, 2010 According to recent research, levels of the essential nutrient iodine have declined in the American diet over the past two decades. As people decrease their intake of iodized salt, it becomes more important to include seafood in the diet on a regular basis. |
| Consumer Link Researchers fear deficiency of iodine intake |
| Research Link Environ. Sci. Technol., 42 (4), 1315–1323, 2008. |
| August 12, 2010 When in doubt, throw it out. Foods contaminated with microorganisms make people extremely sick and can even kill. |
| Consumer Link How to keep bacteria off the menu |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2008 Feb;66(2):103-8. |
| August 11, 2010 Inadequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids can aggravate arthritis. Consuming fish and algae oils can provide these food components and benefit overall joint health. |
| Consumer Link Vitamins can help ease pain in joints |
| Research Link Am Fam Physician. 2004 Jul 1;70(1):133-40. |
| August 10, 2010 Foods and food components that show potential for preventing cancer are not necessarily beneficial during the treatment of cancer. A review of clinical trials reported that supplementation with vitamins C and E and beta carotene should not be used during chemotherapy. |
| Consumer Link Not too much ... not too little ... but enough |
| Research Link J Natl Cancer Inst. 2008 Jun 4;100(11):773-83. |
| August 9, 2010 A multivitamin/mineral type of dietary supplement can make sense when calorie intake is low. This often is the case for those who are cutting calories for weight loss and for older adults who have low levels of physical activity. |
| Consumer Link Is a multivitamin a smart idea? |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2007 Aug;107(8):1322-32. |
| August 8, 2010 Over 70 percent of all kidney stones contain calcium oxalate. Increasing calcium intake while eating oxalate-rich foods reduces the risk of kidney stones. |
| Consumer Link Combat kidney stones with water |
| Research Link Nephrol Dial Transplant. 1998 Sep;13(9):2241-7. |
| August 7, 2010 When you decide to eliminate a food from your diet, make sure your decision is based on science rather than Internet scare tactics masquerading as the latest nutrition news. |
| Consumer Link False claims thrive on Internet |
| Research Link Indian J Med Sci. 2004 Aug;58(8):321-6. |
| August 6, 2010 Many studies indicate that exercise is more effective at preventing weight gain than it is at producing weight loss. However, exercise is very beneficial for everyone. Being overweight and fit appears to carry lower health risk than being thin and sedentary. |
| Consumer Link Worry about fitness, not fat |
| Research Link Handb Exp Pharmacol. 2005;(170):137-63. |
| August 5, 2010 Recent analysis of national eating patterns found that choline intakes of older children and adults are far below the "Adequate Intake" recommendation. Since eggs and meat are the richest food sources of this nutrient, limiting these foods also reduces choline intake. |
| Consumer Link Little-noticed choline plays essential role |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2009 Nov;67(11):615-23. |
| August 4, 2010 Although dietary protein tends to increase the loss of calcium in the urine, dietary protein also enhances the absorption of calcium. Overall, adequate protein benefits bone health. |
| Consumer Link Proper protein is necessary |
| Research Link Nutr Metab (Lond). 2009 Mar 13;6:12. |
| August 3, 2010 Cases of the bone deformity disease called rickets occurred when infants were fed macrobiotic diets by well-intentioned parents. This happened because the diet lacked vitamin D that can be found in fortified cow and soy milks. |
| Consumer Link Rickets makes a comeback |
| Research Link Pediatrics. 2001 Apr;107(4):E46. |
| August 2, 2010 Dehydration can lead to overly low blood pressure and impair both brain function and balance. Drinking enough fluid can especially help older people avoid falls due to dizziness or disorientation. |
| Consumer Link Lower risk of falling with good nutrition |
| Research Link Dehydration |
| August 1, 2010 Getting regular exercise is beneficial to long-term health. Recent research indicates that even if you exercise regularly, spending less time sitting provides additional health benefits. |
| Consumer Link The longer you sit, the shorter your life |
| Research Link Am J Epidemiol. 2010 Jul 22. [Epub ahead of print] |
| July 31, 2010 During endurance exercises like jogging, the first nutrient that runs low is water and the second is carbohydrate. For good endurance, stay hydrated during exercise and consume a balanced diet that includes high carbohydrate foods. |
| Consumer Link Athletes need to hydrate and devour carbohydrates |
| Research Link Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2009 Mar;41(3):709-31. |
| July 30, 2010 One way to control calories without triggering hunger is to decrease portion size and mostly choose lower calorie options among your favorite foods. |
| Consumer Link Big servings lead unwary to overeat |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2006 Jan;83(1):11-7. |
| July 29, 2010 Excess abdominal fat stored internally (also called visceral fat) is associated with increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Fortunately, daily exercise helps to reduce this specific type of risky body fat. |
| Consumer Link Fat that lies beneath carries more risk |
| Research Link Int J Obes (Lond). 2007 Dec;31(12):1786-97. |
| July 28, 2010 Vitamin D is now known to be important in brain function. Low levels of vitamin D have been associated with substantial cognitive decline in an older population studied over a 6-year period. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin D and Mental Illness |
| Research Link Arch Intern Med. 2010;170(13):1135-1141. |
| July 27, 2010 Parents feeding their infants and toddlers vegetarian milk alternatives need to be careful that the child is obtaining enough vitamin D and calcium. Children of well-intentioned parents have ended up with deformed bones due to rickets. |
| Consumer Link Rickets makes a comeback |
| Research Link Pediatrics. 2001 Apr;107(4):E46. |
| July 26, 2010 Memory loss and vitamin B-12 deficiency are both common in those over 50. Since B-12 deficiency can cause memory problems, a thorough evaluation of vitamin B-12 status should be conducted in anyone who develops memory problems or other neurological symptoms. |
| Consumer Link Remember B-12 for healthy aging |
| Research Link J Nutr Health Aging. 2007 Mar-Apr;11(2):132-52. |
| July 25, 2010 Weight-loss surgery can make it very difficult to meet essential nutrient needs. Although this may not always cause obvious health problems, it can result in serious birth defects if a woman becomes pregnant while deficient in a nutrient. |
| Consumer Link Study cautions women who have weight-loss surgery |
| Research Link J AAPOS. 2010 Jun;14(3):274-276. |
| July 24, 2010 Zinc nasal gels have been a popular cold remedy. Unfortunately, recent research indicates that their use can damage olfactory function and result in loss of the sense of smell. |
| Consumer Link Homeopathic Nasal Zinc Linked to Loss of Smell |
| Research Link Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2010 Jul;136(7):673-6. |
| July 23, 2010 If you eat a wide variety of wholesome foods, your child is more likely to follow suit. |
| Consumer Link Children's nutrition: 10 tips for picky eaters |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2003 Jun;103(6):692-8. |
| July 22, 2010 Short-term memory loss can be a sign of a vitamin B-12 deficiency? Since the ability to absorb B-12 from foods declines with age, it is commonly recommended that people over 50 years of age meet their B-12 needs with fortified foods or supplements. |
| Consumer Link Dietary B-12 may not be enough |
| Research Link J Nutr Health Aging. 2010;14(5):339-45. |
| July 21, 2010 For nursing infants to obtain adequate iodine from mother's milk, it is essential that the mother consume enough iodine in her diet. If you are cutting back on salt, it can reduce iodine intake and lower the iodine content of breastmilk. Be sure to find other sources of iodine. |
| Consumer Link Researchers fear deficiency of iodine intake |
| Research Link Environ. Sci. Technol., 42 (4), 1315–1323, 2008. |
| July 20, 2010 Prolonged stress has been shown to have negative effects on the cardiovascular system. Regular daily exercise is a great way to release stress and benefit heart and blood vessel health. |
| Consumer Link Take heart care in hand for good life |
| Research Link Cardiovascular Consequences of Chronic Stress |
| July 19, 2010 Unfortunately, some non-prescription medications, herbal products, and essential oils can cause birth defects. Consequently, no drugs or herbs should be used without the guidance of a physician or pharmacist - especially during pregnancy. |
| Consumer Link Safe conception helps prevent birth defects |
| Research Link Birth Defects Res B Dev Reprod Toxicol. 2003 Dec;68(6):505-10. |
| July 18, 2010 Research shows that regular use of high vitamin C supplementation does not prevent the common cold. However, in people who are exposed to an extreme physical stress like running a marathon, vitamin C supplementation can cut the risk of catching a cold in half. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin C can halve cold risk during strain |
| Research Link Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2007 Jul 18;(3):CD000980. |
| July 17, 2010 Consuming adequate fruits, vegetables, and fish can help to maintain the health of your blood vessels and heart. |
| Consumer Link Heart healthy diet helps avoid strokes |
| Research Link Eur J Cardiovasc Prev Rehabil. 2010 Feb;17(1):50-5. |
| July 16, 2010 Green tea is widely extolled for its beneficial content of polyphenols that are linked to reduced chronic disease risks. However, consuming too much tea (green or black) also can potentially supply excessive amounts of aluminum and fluoride. |
| Consumer Link The dark side of healthful 'superfoods' |
| Research Link Rev Saude Publica. 2004 Feb;38(1):100-5. Epub 2004 Jan 30. |
| July 15, 2010 Optimal nutrition promotes optimal health. The World Health Organization defines health as complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. |
| Consumer Link Optimal nutrition for optimal health |
| Research Link Üstün & Jakob. 2005;83:802 |
| July 14, 2010 Since the immune system is clearly involved in psoriasis, maintaining a healthy immune system helps to deal with the disease. Many nutrients are involved in supporting immune function, so meeting all nutrient needs may be step one in treating psoriasis. |
| Consumer Link Causes of psoriasis are not yet determined |
| Research Link Br J Dermatol. 2005 Oct;153(4):706-14. |
| July 13, 2010 Food sources of fats and oils provide various amounts of the essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Low fat diets make it important to carefully select the fats and oils that provide enough of these fatty acids to meet recommended intake. |
| Consumer Link Fat is essential for health, in right types and amounts |
| Research Link Annu Rev Nutr. 2004;24:597-615. |
| July 12, 2010 Decreasing a person's calorie intake by 300 to 400 calories per day below their calorie requirement can increase protein needs by at least 25 percent. Consequently, weight-loss diets that lower protein too much can be counter-productive. |
| Consumer Link Cut calories and add exercise to lose fat, not muscle |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2009 Mar;139(3):514-21. |
| July 11, 2010 Physicians studying female hair loss report that many cases improve with iron supplementation even when initial blood values for iron status are within normally acceptable ranges. |
| Consumer Link Hair loss in women has contributing factors |
| Research Link Acta Dermatovenerol Croat. 2009;17(4):279-84. |
| July 10, 2010 The fat soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) naturally accumulate in body fat cells. This appears to increase the need for these vitamins in people who have higher amounts of body fat. |
| Consumer Link Overweight people need fat-soluble vitamins |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2010 May;140(5):1029-34. |
| July 9, 2010 Poor nutrition at any stage of life can affect health. Even the nutritional status of parents before conception can affect their child's lifelong health. Missing even one essential nutrient can impair the function of many cell types, including cells of the reproductive organs. |
| Consumer Link All essential nutrients needed to stay healthy |
| Research Link Indian J Med Res. 2009 Nov;130(5):600-8. |
| July 8, 2010 The breast-fed infant of a healthy mother can thrive on breast milk alone for four to six months. However, if a mother is deficient in vitamin B-12, her milk also will be deficient. This can irreversibly damage the baby's brain and nerve development. Consequently, vegetarian mothers are commonly advised to take a B-12 supplement. |
| Consumer Link New moms need B-12 for baby’s milk |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2008 May;66(5):250-5. |
| July 7, 2010 Fat is required in the diet for numerous important biological functions. Without some dietary fat, the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K are poorly absorbed. Deficiencies in these vitamins can lead to serious health problems. |
| Consumer Link Switch from fat phobia to fat smarts |
| Research Link Eur J Clin Nutr. 1999 Apr;53 Suppl 1:S84-8; discussion S88-93. |
| July 6, 2010 Frequent, vigorous exercise during the child and adolescent years is becoming recognized as the most effective way to prevent chronic health conditions that develop during the adult years. |
| Consumer Link Active kids avoid later health woes |
| Research Link Exerc Immunol Rev. 2005;11:108-44. |
| July 5, 2010 Strength training becomes particularly important as a person ages. Building or maintaining muscle mass helps to prevent the typical decline in strength and calorie needs that occurs with age. |
| Consumer Link Lift weights to live longer, live stronger |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 2007 Dec;26(6):696S-703S. |
| July 4, 2010 The brain requires blood sugar for energy, using about 400 calories of glucose each day. If inadequate carbohydrate is consumed, muscle protein may be broken down to provide needed glucose. Consume at least 130 grams of carbohydrate a day to feed the brain and help prevent muscle loss. |
| Consumer Link Too much carb cutting affects your brain |
| Research Link Prog Brain Res. 2006;153:129-40. |
| July 3, 2010 For those who are severely obese, bariatric surgery may be an effective treatment. However, the list of possible bariatric surgery side effects is extensive and individuals run the risk of many nutrient deficiencies if their food and supplement intake is not managed carefully. |
| Consumer Link Weight-loss surgery comes with risks |
| Research Link Am J Med Sci. 2006 Apr;331(4):219-25. |
| July 2, 2010 The content of some key vitamins in fresh produce begins to decrease soon after harvest. Therefore to get the most nutrients from your produce, buy fresh produce in quantities that can be consumed within a few days. |
| Consumer Link Ways to use vegetables in Hawaii |
| Research Link Eur J Cancer Prev. 1997 Mar;6 Suppl 1:S21-4. |
| July 1, 2010 Vitamins are essential nutrients your body requires in small amounts for vital functions in the human body. Vitamin K plays an essential role in both normal blood clotting and helps to promote bone health. |
| Consumer Link Fat-Soluble Vitamins |
| Research Link Clin Calcium. 2009 Sep;19(9):1354-60. |
| June 30, 2010 Those with a family history of diabetes can reduce their own risk of developing the disease by maintaining a daily habit of vigorous exercise. |
| Consumer Link Staying active can reduce diabetes risk in adulthood |
| Research Link Diabetes Res Clin Pract. 2005 Jun;68 Suppl1:S73-81. |
| June 29, 2010 Good nutrition is required for a healthy mind and an active memory. The major energy supply for the brain is glucose, a sugar molecule best obtained from whole foods like grains, legumes, fruits, vegetables and some milk products. |
| Consumer Link Feed your brain for best performance |
| Research Link Rev Neurol (Paris). 2004 Sep;160(8-9):767-92. |
| June 28, 2010 Brain researchers report that eating fish a few times a week supports brain function in older people. They think that this is due to the omega-3 components of fish oil. |
| Consumer Link Fish is good for the brain, study shows |
| Research Link Neurology. 2008 Aug 5;71(6):439-46. |
| June 27, 2010 Many drugs used to treat heartburn greatly reduce how much vitamin B-12 is absorbed from foods. Consequently, people using GERD medications should take a supplemental source of vitamin B-12. |
| Consumer Link Pills take aim at heartburn's chronic pain |
| Research Link Ann Pharmacother. 2002 May;36(5):812-6. |
| June 26, 2010 All foods have the potential to cause foodborne illness. Even fresh produce needs to be handled, stored, and prepared safely to obtain essential nutrients with minimal risk of illness. |
| Consumer Link Reducing Risk of Getting a Foodborne Illness from Fresh Produce |
| Research Link Emerg Infect Dis. 1997 Oct-Dec;3(4):459-65. |
| June 25, 2010 Diets rich in fruits and vegetables are recommended for reducing cancer risk. Incorporate local tropical fruits and vegetables into your daily diet to help yourself and your local farmer. |
| Consumer Link Use of Tropical Vegetables to Improve Diets in the Pacific Region |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2003 Sep;78(3 Suppl):559S-569S. |
| June 24, 2010 The vitamin folate is important for promoting healthy pregnancies and reducing the risk of heart disease. Foods rich in folate include liver, green vegetables, beans, some fruits, and enriched cereals. |
| Consumer Link Women's Health Issues |
| Research Link Ther Umsch. 2005 Sep;62(9):641-6. |
| June 23, 2010 Rapid weight loss increases the risk for accelerated bone loss and developing osteoporosis. Gradually building fitness and eating a balanced diet is more likely to result in long term success. "Slow and steady wins the race." |
| Consumer Link Bone mass at risk during weight loss |
| Research Link J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2008 Jun;93(6):2181-7. |
| June 22, 2010 On an average, a sedentary adult should drink 6 to 7 cups of water per day, as water. Exposure to hot weather and trade winds, however, increases invisible sweat loss and water needs. |
| Consumer Link Water needs vary with diet and lifestyle |
| Research Link Eur J Clin Nutr. 2010 Feb;64(2):115-23. |
| June 21, 2010 There are a variety of potential causes for a woman to experience hair thinning and loss. Research indicates that poor iron nutrition is one of the more common causes. |
| Consumer Link Hair loss in women has contributing factors |
| Research Link Acta Dermatovenerol Croat. 2009;17(4):279-84. |
| June 20, 2010 Lactose intolerance is not the same thing as a milk allergy. Most hard cheeses and live culture yogurts contain little lactose and are well tolerated by those with lactose intolerance. |
| Consumer Link Even lactose intolerant can drink milk |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2003 Jun;61(6 Pt 1):221-3. |
| June 19, 2010 There are more than 40 essential nutrients required in our diets. Picky eaters run the risk of missing out on one or more of these nutrients. |
| Consumer Link Varied menu is the best path to good health |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 1997 Mar;97(3):266-71. |
| June 18, 2010 Good health requires balanced nutrition. If you eat only the “healthy foods” such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, you will eventually become deficient in essential nutrients such as vitamin B-12, iron, and protein. |
| Consumer Link It can be possible to have too much of a good thing |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 1997 Mar;97(3):266-71. |
| June 17, 2010 Maintaining strong bones requires an adequate intake of many nutrients. In addition to meeting the need for nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, consuming adequate protein also benefits bones. |
| Consumer Link Healthy bones need protein |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 2005 Dec;24(6 Suppl):526S-36S. |
| June 16, 2010 Studies on people consuming vegan and macrobiotic diets have reported poor vitamin B-12 status in as many as 90 percent of the study participants. Diets free of animal foods require adequate B-12 from supplements or fortified foods. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin B-12 deficiency impairs brain |
| Research Link Ann Nutr Metab. 2000;44(5-6):229-34. |
| June 15, 2010 Caffeine is the most commonly consumed drug in the world. Fortunately, a number of studies have reported potential health benefits of caffeine such as reducing the risk of developing diabetes. |
| Consumer Link In moderation, caffeine found to aid health |
| Research Link Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2008 Dec;33(6):1290-300. |
| June 14, 2010 The use of sunscreen helps to prevent skin damage, but it greatly reduces the body's production of vitamin D. Obtaining adequate vitamin D in foods and/or supplements seems to be the safest way to meet the need for this nutrient. |
| Consumer Link How much Vitamin D is enough? |
| Research Link Medical News Today, June 10, 2010. |
| June 13, 2010 Drugs that supply the mineral strontium are widely used in Europe for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. In the U.S. strontium is available only in the form of dietary supplements. |
| Consumer Link European strontium drug spurs supplement sales in U.S. |
| Research Link J Endocrinol Invest. 2005;28(8 Suppl):50-7. |
| June 12, 2010 Variety, balance, and moderation are the three most important words in nutrition. Extreme diet changes may seem to have short-term benefits but too often can lead to long-term unforeseen problems. |
| Consumer Link Variety, balance and moderation still outweigh any fad |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2009 May;89(5):1543S-1548S. |
| June 11, 2010 Keeping all of your senses sharp requires meeting the body's need for all essential nutrients. Many nutrient deficiencies impair the function of the nervous system. |
| Consumer Link Balanced living keeps senses sharp |
| Research Link Curr Opin Gastroenterol. 2007 Mar;23(2):171-7. |
| June 10, 2010 Several vitamin and mineral deficiencies can affect brain function and lead to psychological problems like depression. Adequate intake of essential nutrients from a balanced diet is the best protection. When that's not possible, dietary supplements can fill the gaps. |
| Consumer Link Feed your brain for best performance |
| Research Link Rev Neurol (Paris). 2004 Sep;160(8-9):767-92. |
| June 9, 2010 Contrary to popular belief, research has shown that sugar does not cause increased aggressiveness and hyperactivity. In fact, a study of incarcerated teenage boys found that sugar had a calming effect and helped the boys to concentrate and pay attention. |
| Consumer Link A researcher's sweet truths |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 1994 May;52(5):173-5. |
| June 8, 2010 Exercise causes the body to lose water and salt in sweat. Typical salt loss during exercise is about a half a teaspoon per hour. Some people lose twice this much. Athletes may crave salt because their needs are much greater than the average person. |
| Consumer Link Some athletes run risk of low blood sodium |
| Research Link Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2008 Oct;18(5):457-72. |
| June 7, 2010 The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend at least 60 minutes of daily physical activity for children and teenagers. This activity can be spread throughout the day. Even 10-minute bouts of activity can contribute to the recommended daily total. |
| Consumer Link Becoming fit requires developing new habits |
| Research Link 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans |
| June 6, 2010 Sublingual vitamin B-12 pills designed to dissolve under the tongue are not more effective than pills that are swallowed, according to current research. However, the sublingual pills can be a good option for those who have difficulty swallowing pills. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin delivery doesn't change absorption rates |
| Research Link Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2003 Dec;56(6):635-8. |
| June 5, 2010 As the weather gets hotter, remember that children are more likely than adults to overheat during exercise. This is especially true for overweight children. Keep plenty of fluids available and encourage drinking. |
| Consumer Link Demands of exercise different for children and adults |
| Research Link Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2008 Apr;33(2):420-7. |
| June 4, 2010 You may be able to prevent dental caries and periodontal gum disease simply by making sure to consume all your essential nutrients. |
| Consumer Link How Does What I Eat Affect My Oral Health? |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2003 May;103(5):615-25. |
| June 3, 2010 During the past few decades, the opportunities have increased to consume larger portions of high calorie foods and to be more sedentary. Maintaining a healthy weight requires both decreasing food portion sizes and increasing physical activity. |
| Consumer Link Physical Activity and the Health of Young People |
| Research Link Adv Exp Med Biol. 2009;646:71-81. |
| June 2, 2010 Low potassium intake has been linked to hypertension in overweight children. Edamame (green soybeans) makes a great lower calorie high potassium snack. |
| Consumer Link USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 22 for Potassium. |
| Research Link J Pediatr. 2010 May 18. |
| June 1, 2010 In the world of nutrition, things that sound reasonable are not always correct. Unfortunately, it is very easy to change your food choices based on fiction and become part of a "mutual illusion support system" of people who unknowingly promote misinformation. |
| Consumer Link Zeal does not make it true |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2006 Apr;106(4):601-7. |
| May 31, 2010 Studies show that individuals with intolerance to the gluten in wheat often do not get adequate fiber from grains. Other grains that can be substituted, include rice, corn, quinoa, amaranth, and millet. |
| Consumer Link Gluten-Free Diets |
| Research Link J Hum Nutr Diet. 2010 Mar 23. |
| May 30, 2010 Spices that are rich in antioxidants may be useful in reducing potentially harmful oxidation products in the body. These spices include cloves, cinnamon, oregano, rosemary, ginger, black pepper and paprika. |
| Consumer Link Antioxidant-Rich Spices May Be Healthy |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2010 May;91(5):1180-4. |
| May 29, 2010 Biotin is an essential B vitamin that is important at all ages. Recent research found that food levels of biotin are significantly lower than previously thought. Good food sources include eggs, lean meats, salmon, peanuts, and sunflower seeds. |
| Consumer Link B vitamins are unsung heroes of good health |
| Research Link J Food Compost Anal 2004 Dec;17(6):767-776. |
| May 28, 2010 A diet that promotes the "good" and "bad" foods concept should raise a red flag. We require a variety of nutrients and that means consuming a variety of foods. |
| Consumer Link Nutrition Quackery |
| Research Link J Fam Health Care. 2006;16(5):143-5. |
| May 27, 2010 Dietary potassium may play a role in decreasing blood pressure. Papaya is one of many fruits that provides a good potassium source. |
| Consumer Link Potassium and Health |
| Research Link USDA National Nutrient Database |
| May 26, 2010 Recent research indicates that many of us do not consume enough of a nutrient called choline. It is especially important for normal brain and muscle function. Rich food sources include liver and eggs, followed by most meats, poultry, and fish. |
| Consumer Link Get to know choline's essential role |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2009 Nov;67(11):615-23. |
| May 25, 2010 The brain likes sugar. Its major source of energy is glucose (blood sugar). It uses about 400 calories of glucose every day. Sweet and starchy foods can both meet this need. |
| Consumer Link Too much carb cutting affects your brain |
| Research Link Eur J Clin Nutr. 1999 Apr;53 Suppl 1:S107-11. |
| May 24, 2010 To help both your heart and your brain, include plenty of vegetables and fruits in a balanced diet to reduce oxidative damage to blood vessels. |
| Consumer Link Heart healthy diet helps avoid strokes |
| Research Link Eur J Cardiovasc Prev Rehabil. 2010 Feb;17(1):50-5. |
| May 23, 2010 It is possible to choose vegetarian foods that meet calcium needs. However, including dairy products can make it easier to get enough calcium for bone health. |
| Consumer Link Debunking calcium myths |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 1999 Sep;70(3 Suppl):543S-548S. |
| May 22, 2010 Eating disorders can develop from excessive dieting, binge eating, and inappropriate weight loss techniques. Research shows that teasing young family members about their weight can trigger these behaviors. |
| Consumer Link Criticism may trigger eating disorders |
| Research Link Am J Prev Med. 2007 Nov;33(5):359-369. |
| May 21, 2010 Studies indicate that the short-term use of ginger can help to relieve pregnancy-related nausea. |
| Consumer Link Herbs at a Glance, Ginger |
| Research Link Am Fam Physician. 2007 Jun 1;75(11):1689-91. |
| May 20, 2010 Good nutrition starts with food safety. Remember to: 1) Wash your hands before handling foods; 2) Keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot. For picnics, plan ahead with adequate coolers and ice. |
| Consumer Link How to keep bacteria off the menu |
| Research Link Nutr Clin Care. 2004 Oct-Dec;7(4):134-40. |
| May 19, 2010 Summertime often triggers dieting. Healthy weight loss is fat loss. Exercise required for building muscle must be supported by adequate nutrition - not just "rabbit food." |
| Consumer Link Focus on muscle, fat—not weight |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2009 Mar;139(3):514-21. |
| May 18, 2010 The consumption of fresh vegetables and fruits has a strong protective effect for coronary heart disease. Now research also indicates there is likely a protective effect to cognitive function as we age. |
| Consumer Link Don't forget to eat your veggies |
| Research Link Int Psychogeriatr. 2010 Mar;22(2):174-87. |
| May 17, 2010 The essential mineral zinc is more efficiently absorbed from animal foods than from plant foods. Vegetarian diets need to contain about 50 percent more zinc to meet the body's needs. |
| Consumer Link Zinc Consumer Fact Sheet |
| Research Link Zinc Health Professional Fact Sheet |
| May 16, 2010 Motivating children to exercise can sometimes seem like a formidable task. But, make it fun and part the daily lifestyle and it can yield lifelong health rewards. |
| Consumer Link Keeping Kids Active |
| Research Link J Pediatr Health Care. 2003 Jan-Feb;17(1):11-7. |
| May 15, 2010 Mental performance on exams can benefit from adequate sleep and moderate sized meals that are balanced and include some carbohydrate. |
| Consumer Link Exam cram requires good food, rest |
| Research Link Br J Nutr. 1997 Apr;77 Suppl 1:S29-38. |
| May 14, 2010 When it comes to nutrition and health, it is often a challenge to sort out sensible information from nonsense. Science should drive decisions, not marketing. |
| Consumer Link Zeal does not make it true |
| Research Link Phys Sportsmed. 1997 Jun;25(6):77-92. |
| May 13, 2010 Optimal nutrition promotes optimal health only when all nutrient needs are met. The World Health Organization defines health as "complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity." |
| Consumer Link Optimal nutrition for optimal health |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2002 Aug;102(8):1096-104. |
| May 12, 2010 Depression is a complex mental disease that sometimes may be triggered by limited nutrition. Several nutrients are required for normal brain function. |
| Consumer Link Feed your brain for best performance |
| Research Link Biol Psychiatry. 2005 Nov 1;58(9):679-85. |
| May 11, 2010 Like cholesterol, high blood levels of triglycerides are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Including fish as a regular part of your diet is associated with better heart health. |
| Consumer Link Lower blood triglycerides to ward off heart disease |
| Research Link Nutr Health. 2009;20(1):11-20 |
| May 10, 2010 Daily exercise is not just for looking good. Regular exercise also is important for both the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes. |
| Consumer Link Exercise can help dilute adult diabetes |
| Research Link J Appl Physiol. 2007 Oct;103(4):1113-20. Epub 2007 Jul 26. |
| May 9, 2010 Skipping breakfast has been linked to decreased mental and physical performance. A balanced morning meal of foods that provide carbohydrate and protein works best for both the brain and the body. |
| Consumer Link Premium breakfast fuels a better day |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2006 Feb;83(2):211-20. |
| May 8, 2010 Eating only "healthy foods," rather than an overall healthy diet, can lead to inadequate protein, excessive fiber and iron deficiency, among other problems. Good nutrition is often as simple as variety, balance, and moderation. |
| Consumer Link Variety, balance and moderation still outweigh any fad |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2003 Nov;133(11):3476-84 |
| May 7, 2010 During hot weather and exercise, our thirst alarm system may function too slowly. Therefore, it is important to drink before you get thirsty under those conditions. |
| Consumer Link Dehydration is linked to many ills |
| Research Link Br J Sports Med. 1997 Sep;31(3):175-82. |
| May 6, 2010 It has been estimated that one out of seven people over age 65 lose the ability to absorb vitamin B-12 normally and are at risk of developing a deficiency. |
| Consumer Link Age plays crucial role in B-12 needs |
| Research Link Arch Intern Med. 2005 May 23;165(10):1167-72. |
| May 5, 2010 During one hour of exercise in the heat you can lose twice the daily recommended intake of sodium in sweat loss. Remember, sodium is an essential nutrient. |
| Consumer Link Fluid needs rise with temperature |
| Research Link Current Sports Medicine Reports. 7(4):S1-S2, July/August 2008. |
| May 4, 2010 Moderate amounts of fats and oils are essential for a healthful diet. Not only do they provide essential fatty acids, but they also help the body absorb certain vitamins and other beneficial food components. |
| Consumer Link Jack Sprat missed out on essential acids |
| Research Link Biochem Pharmacol. 2009 Mar 15;77(6):937-46. |
| May 3, 2010 One large banana provides almost 500 mg of potassium, a little more than 10 percent of the daily recommended intake for an adult. |
| Consumer Link Bananas need no hype to be considered good |
| Research Link USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference |
| May 2, 2010 A single large egg contains 13 essential vitamins and minerals and only 70 calories, making it an ideal component of a balanced diet. |
| Consumer Link It’s All In An Egg! |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 2004 Dec;23(6 Suppl):596S-600S. |
| May 1, 2010 The age-associated loss of body protein is called sarcopenia. To increase muscle along with bone density, consume adequate protein and exercise regularly. |
| Consumer Link Keep fit for life |
| Research Link Maturitas. 2010 Apr 20. |
| April 30, 2010 Food labeling regulations change slowly despite growth in nutrition knowledge. Currently, when a food or dietary supplement label indicates 100% of the "Daily Value" for vitamin A, it actually contains just over 200% of the currently recommended intake for a woman. |
| Consumer Link Too much vitamin A can be toxic |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2007 Oct;65(10):425-38. |
| April 29, 2010 Preventing osteoporosis starts in adolescence and young adulthood. It is particularly important to have adequate calcium intake and physical activity to prevent bone fractures later in life. |
| Consumer Link Nutrition for older persons |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 1999 Oct;18(5 Suppl):406S-412S. |
| April 28, 2010 To have a healthy baby, always tell your doctor what dietary supplements you are taking. Consuming some herbal products and high intake of some nutrients during pregnancy can increase the risk of having a baby with birth defects. |
| Consumer Link Safe conception helps prevent birth defects |
| Research Link Birth Defects Res B Dev Reprod Toxicol. 2003 Dec;68(6):505-10. |
| April 27, 2010 It is not uncommon for the media to promote a drug for common symptoms that could actually be due to a nutrient deficient diet. Don't let fear of a possible disease hook you into a drug solution just because it is easier than eating a balanced diet. |
| Consumer Link Hype drives prescriptions' popularity |
| Research Link PLoS Med. 2008 May 27;5(5):e106. |
| April 26, 2010 With the emphasis on decreasing obesity in children, it is important to recognize that overweight and obese children have a greater tendency to overheat during exercise. Be sure to supply adequate hydration, especially on hot days. |
| Consumer Link Demands of exercise different for children and adults |
| Research Link Sports Med. 1998 Apr;25(4):221-40. |
| April 25, 2010 The Internet has opened a Pandora's box of nutritional misinformation. Even though there is a strong human tendency to just believe what sounds good, being a skeptic has its long term health benefits. |
| Consumer Link False claims thrive on Internet |
| Research Link Complement Ther Med. 2004 Dec;12(4):217-27. |
| April 24, 2010 Studies show that consumers have difficulty self-regulating the consumption of large portion sizes. Buying food in smaller packages may cost more but can help to prevent adding inches to your waist. |
| Consumer Link Big servings lead unwary to overeat |
| Research Link Health Educ Res. 2010 Feb;25(1):109-20. |
| April 23, 2010 Vitamin K, found in green vegetables, is well known for it role in normal blood clotting, but this vitamin also is needed for supporting the health of bones and arteries. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin K helps bones, brain and eyes |
| Research Link Thromb Haemost. 2007 Jul;98(1):120-5. |
| April 22, 2010 Researchers have identified genes that strongly predispose people to obesity. For teenagers with a genetic predisposition to obesity, daily exercise of 60 minutes or more can help them avoid obesity. |
| Consumer Link Exercise helps even if genes foster obesity |
| Research Link Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med./ 2010;164(4):328-333. |
| April 21, 2010 Many things can cause hair thinning and hair loss. One possible cause is inadequate iron in the diet. Iron deficiency, even without anemia, can disrupt normal hair growth. |
| Consumer Link Iron deficiency sometimes goes unseen |
| Research Link Clin Exp Dermatol. 2002 Jul;27(5):396-404. |
| April 20, 2010 People taking "blood thinner" drugs are commonly advised to avoid high vitamin K foods. However, since vitamin K plays a role in preventing "hardening of the arteries," researchers are now advising physicians to adjust the drug dose to a steady day to day intake of vitamin K. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin K helps bones, brain and eyes |
| Research Link Thromb Haemost. 2007 Jul;98(1):120-5. |
| April 19, 2010 Many people may not meet their need for the B vitamin biotin. Since a biotin deficiency increases the risk of birth defects, pregnant women should consume good food sources of biotin such as eggs, lean meats, salmon, peanuts, and sunflower seeds. |
| Consumer Link B vitamins are unsung heroes of good health |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2009 Jan;139(1):154-7. |
| April 18, 2010 When calorie intake is reduced for weight loss, protein needs actually increase. Consequently, when dieting, cut back on foods that are high in fat, sugar, and starch. |
| Consumer Link Careful diet plan sheds fat |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 2004 Dec;23(6 Suppl):631S-636S. |
| April 17, 2010 Prevention of obesity and type 2 diabetes requires both children and adults to consume a health-promoting diet of wholesome foods that meet nutrient needs with a moderate amount of calories. |
| Consumer Link Preventing Diabetes with Good Nutrition |
| Research Link Diabetes Care. 2008 Nov;31(11):2120-5. |
| April 16, 2010 Good nutrition is especially important when a woman is pregnant. Much of the calcium needed for infant bone development is drawn from the mother’s bones. Consuming adequate amounts of high calcium foods helps to maintain bone health of the mother. |
| Consumer Link Childbearing strains mom's calcium level |
| Research Link J Mammary Gland Biol Neoplasia. 2005 Apr;10(2):105-18. |
| April 15, 2010 Controlling high blood pressure takes more than just cutting back on salt. A low intake of magnesium also can contribute to high blood pressure. Green vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and beans are all good food sources of magnesium. |
| Consumer Link Brown rice can provide vital magnesium |
| Research Link Nutr Clin Pract. 2008 Apr-May;23(2):142-51. |
| April 14, 2010 There are many good reasons to include fruits and vegetables in your daily diet. Most fresh produce should be consumed within 7 days of harvest. Otherwise, frozen or canned products are good alternatives. |
| Consumer Link Comparison of Canned, Fresh and Frozen Fruits and Vegetables |
| Research Link J Sci Food Agric 87:930–944 (2007). |
| April 13, 2010 Our food environment offers a great variety of foods throughout the year. Despite this modern abundance, many people eat a rather limited variety of foods. Eating too narrow for too long may have serious long-term health consequences due to chronically low intake of some essential nutrients. |
| Consumer Link Varied menu is the best path to good health |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 1997 Mar;97(3):266-71. |
| April 12, 2010 Fats and the essential fatty acid components of fat are required for numerous important functions in the body. People who attempt to eat a nearly fat-free diet or limited amounts of certain types of fat may not be meeting their essential fatty acid requirements. |
| Consumer Link Jack Sprat missed out on essential acids |
| Research Link Biochem Pharmacol. 2009 Mar 15;77(6):937-46. Epub 2008 Oct 28. |
| April 11, 2010 Research indicates that a complex dance among genetics, diet, and physical activity determines our body weight. During the teenage years, at least 60 minutes of exercise per day may be the best way to blunt the genetic predisposition to storing extra body fat. |
| Consumer Link Exercise helps even if genes foster obesity |
| Research Link Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2010 Apr;164(4):328-33. |
| April 10, 2010 Too often people equate good nutrition with eliminating the so-called "bad" foods and ingredients from their diets. The number one goal for good nutrition is to meet the need for essential nutrients within a person's calorie requirements. |
| Consumer Link People should meet essential nutrient needs |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 2005 Apr;24(2):150S-154S. |
| April 9, 2010 Two of the major risk factors for gallstone disease are prolonged fasting and rapid weight loss. Restricted food intake, especially when low in fat, slows the release of bile from the gall bladder and gallstones are more likely to form. |
| Consumer Link Painful stones gall many U.S. adults |
| Research Link Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol. 2006;20(6):1063-73. |
| April 8, 2010 The theory that heart disease is caused by too much iron in the body has been refuted by a number of studies. Too much iron is mainly a concern for those with the genetic condition called hemochromatosis. |
| Consumer Link Iron level is important to good health |
| Research Link Can J Cardiovasc Nurs. 2009;19(1):26-32. |
| April 7, 2010 Too often headaches are blamed on stress or lack of sleep, when something as simple as skipping meals and dehydration can be the culprit. |
| Consumer Link Diet may play part in your headaches |
| Research Link National Headache Foundation |
| April 6, 2010 When looking at the "Nutrition Facts" information on a food label, the first thing to notice is the serving size. Everything else on the label indicates the amount in one serving. |
| Consumer Link How do food labels influence your food choices? |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2009 Nov;90(5):1351-7. |
| April 5, 2010 Falling is always a concern for older individuals. Research on vitamin D supplementation showed a reduced risk of falling in women taking 700 IU of vitamin D per day over a three year period. |
| Consumer Link Lower risk of falling with good nutrition |
| Research Link Arch Intern Med. 2006 Feb 27;166(4):424-30. |
| April 4, 2010 Researchers have found that several nutrient deficiencies are linked to depression. Ideally, part of the medical evaluation of depression should include a thorough nutritional assessment. |
| Consumer Link Can nutrients affect your mood? |
| Research Link Biol Psychiatry. 2005 Nov 1;58(9):679-85. |
| April 3, 2010 Supersizing low-energy-dense foods like salads and lower fat soups is a great way to control hunger while restricting energy intake. Salads and soups also provide important essential nutrients. |
| Consumer Link Big servings lead unwary to overeat |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2005 Jul;82(1 Suppl):236S-241S. |
| April 2, 2010 Calcium-fortified foods make getting your daily calcium relatively simple. Because excess calcium can decrease the absorption of other essential minerals like iron and zinc, it might be prudent to consume only 1 calcium fortified food a day. |
| Consumer Link How much is too much calcium? |
| Research Link Br J Nutr. 1993 Mar;69(2):533-40. |
| April 1, 2010 Many herbal products are marketed to athletes with promises to boost performance despite very limited research to support these claims. The first step to quality performance is a balanced diet that meets essential nutrient needs. |
| Consumer Link Herbs and Athletes |
| Research Link Am. J. Clin. Nutr. 72:624S–636S. |
| March 31, 2010 Bariatric surgery is becoming more common as a treatment for obesity. For those who opt for this treatment, it will become especially challenging to meet essential nutrient needs with more limited food intake. Dietary supplements will become essential. |
| Consumer Link Weight-loss surgery comes with risks |
| Research Link Gastroenterol Clin Biol. 2007 Apr;31(4):369-77. |
| March 30, 2010 Meeting essential nutrient requirements is always required for good health, but it becomes especially critical when a person needs surgery. Plan ahead on good nutrition before surgery to maintain a strong immune system and to assure speedy tissue repair. |
| Consumer Link Eat well before, after surgery |
| Research Link Curr Opin Crit Care. 2008 Dec;14(6):690-5. |
| March 29, 2010 The mineral copper is an essential nutrient needed for the production of normal blood cells and multiple other biological functions. Good sources of copper include: organ meats, shellfish, nuts, seeds, and chocolate. Other foods that contain significant amounts of copper are wheat bran cereals and whole grain products. |
| Consumer Link Copper Content of Selected Foods |
| Research Link Dietary Reference Intakes for Copper, 2001; pp 224-257. |
| March 28, 2010 Often people believe that eating meat leads to obesity problems. However, this belief is contradicted by researchers finding that many overweight and obese people are iron deficient. Consequently, foods rich in iron, like beef and chicken thigh, may prove to be beneficial in weight management. |
| Consumer Link Lean red meat best source of iron in food |
| Research Link Int J Obes Relat Metab Disord. 2003 Mar;27(3):416-8. |
| March 27, 2010 Calcium-fortified orange juice provides about the same amount of absorbable calcium as milk. For best results for bone health, choose fortified orange juice that also contains vitamin D. |
| Consumer Link Calcium and Vitamin D: Important at Every Age |
| Research Link Can Fam Physician. 2005 September 10; 51(9): 1205–1206. |
| March 26, 2010 Increased physical activity helps to get the appetite in sync with calorie needs. When people are more sedentary, it is easier to eat more calories than needed. Even modest levels of physical activity can help to control appetite. |
| Consumer Link Too bad we can't put exercise in a pill |
| Research Link Sports Med. 1988 Sep;6(3):135-45. |
| March 25, 2010 Can you blame your genes for your tight jeans? Maybe. Many genetic factors are associated with obesity. Researchers estimate that about 5 percent of obese people are purely "genetically obese," making it virtually impossible to have a normal body weight. |
| Consumer Link Can you blame your genes for tight jeans? |
| Research Link J Intern Med. 2003 Nov;254(5):401-25. |
| March 24, 2010 Beans promote good intestinal health, however people often avoid beans because of increased flatulence. Beano, an over-the-counter enzyme product, can decrease or prevent intestinal gas and other gastrointestinal symptoms resulting from a high-fiber diet. |
| Consumer Link High-carb food can be a gas to eat at times |
| Research Link J Fam Pract. 1994 Nov;39(5):441-5. |
| March 23, 2010 The omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid, better known as DHA, is a major component of the brain. There is growing evidence that this fatty acid helps to preserve brain function during aging. Fatty fish are a rich food source of DHA. |
| Consumer Link Fish is good for the brain, study shows |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2009 Apr;139(4):804S-19S. |
| March 22, 2010 The body has many complex systems that protect it against oxidative damage and inflammation. Fruits and vegetables are naturally rich sources of vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene and should be consumed daily. |
| Consumer Link Plant food diet can protect lungs |
| Research Link Int J Tuberc Lung Dis. 2005 Apr;9(4):362-74. |
| March 21, 2010 A breakfast that contains carbohydrate, protein and fat will help to provide mental sharpness and prevent a dive in energy level that occurs when only carbohydrate is consumed. |
| Consumer Link Premium breakfast fuels a better day. |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2006 Feb;83(2):211-20. |
| March 20, 2010 Tomatoes contain a compound called lycopene that is associated with reduced risk of prostate cancer, heart disease, and macular degeneration. Consume tomatoes and tomato sauces with vegetable oils for better absorption of lycopene. |
| Consumer Link Tomatoes prove their worthiness |
| Research Link Canadian Medical Association Journal. 2000 Sep 19;163(6):739-44. |
| March 19, 2010 Long, continuous bouts of exercise can trigger asthma attacks in some people. Exercise that involves short, repeated five-minute bouts of exercise with short rests between bouts is less likely to provoke asthma. |
| Consumer Link Exercise-induced asthma is a common but manageable condition |
| Research Link Curr Sports Med Rep. 2002 Apr;1(2):86-92. |
| March 18, 2010 During weight loss, it is important to maintain a healthy intake of protein. When calories drop below daily needs, protein needs actually go up. Depending on a person's usual eating style, this could mean an increase or a decrease in protein intake. |
| Consumer Link Put focus on fitness, not weight loss |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 2004 Dec;23(6 Suppl):631S-636S. |
| March 17, 2010 The classic sign of B-12 deficiency is anemia, causing increased fatigue. B-12 deficiency can also manifest itself as short-term memory problems similar to early Alzheimer's disease. Taking a preventive B-12 supplement is recommended for those entering their sixth or seventh decades of life. |
| Consumer Link Remember B-12 for healthy aging |
| Research Link CMAJ. 2004 Aug 3;171(3):251-9. |
| March 16, 2010 Many individual foods have special health-promoting qualities. But, a healthful diet depends on the balance of a wide variety of these individual foods. |
| Consumer Link Eating for disease prevention may not be healthy |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2004 Jul;134(7):1779-85. |
| March 15, 2010 March is “Nutrition Month." But eating well is only half of the formula for good health. Exercise, as you probably guessed, is the other half. |
| Consumer Link Exercise for physical, mental fitness |
| Research Link J Cardiovasc Nurs. 2009 Sep-Oct;24(5):344-51. |
| March 14, 2010 Dietary fiber is important to overall health. But when consumed in excess, fiber can adversely affect the intestinal absorption of calcium. |
| Consumer Link Debunking calcium myths |
| Research Link Diabetes Care. 2009 Jun;32(6):990-5. Epub 2009 Mar 11. |
| March 13, 2010 If people eat a wide variety of wholesome foods, they generally meet their need for nutrients. However, people with low calorie needs, pregnant women, and those with special medical problems may benefit from multivitamin/mineral supplements often recommended by health professionals. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin pill no substitute for good diet |
| Research Link NIH Consens State Sci Statements. 2006 May 15-17;23(2):1-30. |
| March 12, 2010 Most birth defects develop during the first two to eight weeks of pregnancy. For women who might become pregnant, it is wise to have an adequate diet even before conception. |
| Consumer Link Safe conception helps prevent birth defects |
| Research Link J Obstet Gynaecol Can. 2007 Dec;29(12):1003-26. |
| March 11, 2010 Research shows that moderate coffee consumption appears to reduce the risk of developing Parkinson's disease. Although these types of studies can't claim cause and effect, they do reduce concerns about potential harmful effects. |
| Consumer Link In moderation, caffeine found to aid health |
| Research Link Mov Disord. 2007 Nov 15;22(15):2242-8. |
| March 10, 2010 Dietary fiber is not entirely calorie-free. However, it provides a minor amount of calories when compared to food components like sugar, starch, protein and fat. |
| Consumer Link Childhood obesity – is more fiber the answer? |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 1995 Nov;62(5 Suppl):1158S-1160S. |
| March 9, 2010 A balanced diet is the ideal way to meet nutrient needs. However, people who limit specific food groups or have very low calorie needs can benefit from taking a daily multivitamin/mineral supplement. |
| Consumer Link Optimal nutrition for optimal health |
| Research Link Arch Gerontol Geriatr. 2009;49 Suppl 1:19-27. |
| March 8, 2010 Leading a full life requires both a strong body and a healthy mind. Marginal deficiencies of many nutrients can contribute to subclinical depression and impaired memory. |
| Consumer Link Nutritional requirements more complex for seniors |
| Research Link J Nutr Health Aging. 2006 Sep-Oct;10(5):377-85. |
| March 7, 2010 A busy lifestyle can lead to less healthful diets and contribute to obesity and chronic health problems. Making time for adequate nutrition now will lead to more "quality time" in the future. |
| Consumer Link Quest for convenience can lead to nutrition disorders |
| Research Link Appetite. 2006 Sep;47(2):196-204. |
| March 6, 2010 Preventing joint problems is easier than fixing them. Adequate daily intake many nutrients, including water and protein, helps to maintain good levels of synovial fluid in joints. |
| Consumer Link Vitamins can help ease pain in joints |
| Research Link Hand Clin. 1987 Aug;3(3):325-36. |
| March 5, 2010 Poor nutrition at any stage of life can affect health. Consuming adequate quantities of a wide variety of foods from all food groups is the best way to get all of your nutrients. |
| Consumer Link All essential nutrients needed to stay healthy |
| Research Link Arch Gerontol Geriatr. 2009;49 Suppl 1:19-27. |
| March 4, 2010 The most common conditions linked to chronically low magnesium intake include high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and osteoporosis. A diet with a wide variety of unprocessed wholesome foods can easily meet magnesium needs. |
| Consumer Link Brown rice can provide vital magnesium |
| Research Link USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 22 |
| March 3, 2010 Eating higher fat ocean fish like butterfish, kahala, salmon and sardines, provides the omega-3 fatty acids that are proving to be so important for maintaining many body functions, including vision and the function of the aging brain. |
| Consumer Link Cut calories, but not nutrients, as you age |
| Research Link J Nutr Health Aging. 2004;8(3):163-74. |
| March 2, 2010 Overly low blood pressure (hypotension) can impair both brain function and balance. Caffeine sources like coffee and tea may help some people avoid the blood-pressure drops that commonly occur following meals. |
| Consumer Link Lower risk of falling with good nutrition |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2007 Feb;85(2):392-8. |
| March 1, 2010 Although it is commonly believed that coffee increases blood pressure, most research evidence indicates that daily consumption of coffee does not increase the risk of high blood pressure. |
| Consumer Link Caffeine and Your Health: Controversies and Misconceptions Continue |
| Research Link Vasc Health Risk Manag. 2008;4(5):963-70. |
| February 28, 2010 Choline is a food component that is essential for normal function of all cells, including brain cells. Eggs and meat are rich sources of choline in the North American diet. |
| Consumer Link Get to know choline's essential role |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2009 Nov;67(11):615-23. |
| February 27, 2010 Vegetables are an excellent source of many nutrients, but on average it takes about 20 pounds of raw vegetables to provide the typical daily calorie need of 2000 calories. |
| Consumer Link The calorie paradox of raw veganism |
| Research Link Appetite. 2003 Aug;41(1):97-8. |
| February 26, 2010 When food portion sizes are large, people tend to eliminate healthful foods to lower calories. Research has shown that including lower calorie foods that are nutrient dense such as fruits, vegetables, and soups can help to maintain satiety while cutting calories. |
| Consumer Link How to Avoid Portion Size Pitfalls to Help Manage Your Weight |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2005 Jul;82(1 Suppl):236S-241S. |
| February 25, 2010 Consuming foods and beverages that contain protein and carbohydrate within an hour after exercise aids in muscle repair and muscle building. |
| Consumer Link Protein nutrition and endurance exercise: What does science say? |
| Research Link Curr Sports Med Rep. 2008 Jul-Aug;7(4):193-201. |
| February 24, 2010 Research at the University of Connecticut shows that vitamin B-12 and folate may be important nutrients in preventing canker sores. |
| Consumer Link Low B vitamins may up risk for canker sores |
| Research Link J Oral Pathol Med. 2010 Feb 7. [Epub ahead of print] |
| February 23, 2010 Research shows that children eating breakfast are more likely to get needed nutrients and are more likely to participate in physical activities. |
| Consumer Link Breakfast Basics |
| Research Link Nutr Res. 2008 Nov;28(11):744-52. |
| February 22, 2010 It is possible to be a normal weight and be too fat at the same time. Researchers call this “normal weight obesity” and find that it carries the same health risks as obesity. |
| Consumer Link 'Skinny fat' label shows the vagaries of obesity |
| Research Link Eur Heart J. 2009 Nov 20. [Epub ahead of print] |
| February 21, 2010 With all the recent hype to limit salt intake, don't forget that the balance of nutrients in the overall diet may be more important to health. Despite being high in salt, the Japanese diet has a great variety of foods and is associated with a low risk of cardiovascular disease. |
| Consumer Link Balancing the latest news about salt |
| Research Link Int J Epidemiol. 2007 Jun;36(3):600-9. Epub 2007 Feb 22. |
| February 20, 2010 MSG is one of the most extensively researched food additives in the world and has been declared not to represent a health hazard by multiple international organizations. For people who must watch their sodium intake, MSG contains only 12% sodium, whereas table salt is 40% sodium. |
| Consumer Link Some Facts about Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) |
| Research Link Eur J Clin Nutr. 2007 Mar;61(3):304-13. Epub 2006 Sep 6. |
| February 19, 2010 The number one goal for good nutrition is to meet essential nutrient needs within a person's calorie requirements. Eliminating "bad" foods from the diet without good substitutes can compromise nutrient intake and eventually harm health. |
| Consumer Link People should meet essential nutrient needs |
| Research Link Am J Lifestyle Med. 2009; 3(1 Suppl): 35S–38S. |
| February 18, 2010 One of the best ways to improve both physical and mental health is to be physically active. If exercise could be put into a pill, it would be the most frequently prescribed medication in the world. |
| Consumer Link Exercise for physical, mental fitness |
| Research Link Br J Sports Med. 2009 Feb;43(2):120-3. |
| February 17, 2010 "Heartburn" or GERD medications generally reduce stomach acid. This can reduce the ability to absorb calcium and contribute to bone loss over time – especially if calcium is low in the diet. |
| Consumer Link GERD drugs are connected to osteoporosis |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2008 Feb;66(2):103-8. |
| February 16, 2010 Skipping breakfast is like starting a long trip on a near empty gas tank. Eating breakfast helps most people, especially children, to function better both mentally and physically. |
| Consumer Link Breakfast for a good start to day |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2005 May;105(5):743-60. |
| February 15, 2010 Foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, and kim chee all contain friendly bacteria that make the foods more safe to eat. To avoid unfriendly bacteria, remember to stay out of the food “danger zone” by keeping cold foods cold and hot foods hot. |
| Consumer Link How to keep bacteria off the menu |
| Research Link Annu Rev Nutr. 2003;23:315-44. |
| February 14, 2010 Valentine’s Day and chocolate are tightly linked. Components of chocolate can dilate blood vessels and stimulate the heart, making one feel maybe a bit more fondly toward the giver of the chocolate. |
| Consumer Link The benefits of chocolate |
| Research Link Curr Hypertens Rep. 2006 Jun;8(3):205-11. |
| February 13, 2010 In the U.S., iodized salt has been a major source of the essential nutrient iodine. With the encouragements to cut back on salt, it is important to make sure that people still meet their need for iodine. |
| Consumer Link Researchers fear deficiency of iodine intake |
| Research Link Environ. Sci. Technol., 42 (4), 1315–1323, 2008. |
| February 12, 2010 Research shows that protein from animal foods does not harm bone density unless the overall diet is low in calcium. When the recommended intake of calcium is met, protein, including animal protein, can actually improve bone density. |
| Consumer Link Healthy bones need protein |
| Research Link Annu Rev Nutr. 2008;28:131-55. |
| February 11, 2010 Virtually every function in the body is dependent on the presence of an adequate amount of water. Getting adequate fluid is important for both short- and long-term health. |
| Consumer Link Make sure you consume enough water |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 2007 Oct;26(5 Suppl):535S-541S. |
| February 10, 2010 Vitamin B-12 deficiency can impair memory, decrease intellectual capacity, and cause emotional instability. Vegetarians are more prone to B-12 deficiency because only animal foods contain significant amounts of B-12. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin B-12 deficiency impairs brain |
| Research Link Ann Nutr Metab. 2000;44(5-6):229-34. |
| February 9, 2010 Recommendations for daily calcium intake are based on the assumption that the body absorbs about 30 percent of the calcium in the diet. Milk products and calcium-fortified juices are reliable rich sources of well-absorbed calcium. |
| Consumer Link Calcium plays important role in bone health |
| Research Link USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference |
| February 8, 2010 To build or maintain muscles requires fueling the body. Especially for seniors, it is important to meet calorie needs and consume adequate nutrients, including dietary protein. |
| Consumer Link Nutritional requirements more complex for seniors |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2008 Jan;87(1):150-5. |
| February 7, 2010 Iodine is an essential nutrient for nerve development in infants and thyroid function at any age. For some people, iodized salt is a major source of this mineral and cutting back on salt can decrease iodine intake. |
| Consumer Link Researchers fear deficiency of iodine intake |
| Research Link Environ. Sci. Technol., 42 (4), 1315–1323, 2008. |
| February 6, 2010 Health problems caused by iron deficiency may go undiagnosed if the deficiency does not produce anemia. This "nonanemic" iron deficiency may have negative effects on brain development during infancy. |
| Consumer Link Iron deficiency sometimes goes unseen |
| Research Link Am Fam Physician. 2002 Oct 1;66(7):1217-24. |
| February 5, 2010 Research involving over 11,000 people showed that regular use of vitamin C supplementation did not prevent the common cold, but it did reduce the severity of symptoms and the length of a cold. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin C can halve cold risk during strain |
| Research Link Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2007 Jul 18;(3):CD000980. |
| February 4, 2010 Creatine supplementation has been studied mostly for enhancing muscle strength. Researchers also found that six weeks of creatine supplementation improved short-term memory in young adult vegetarians. |
| Consumer Link Creatine has wide range of benefits |
| Research Link Proc Biol Sci. 2003 Oct 22;270(1529):2147-50. |
| February 3, 2010 Adequate dietary protein is as essential as calcium and vitamin D for bone health and osteoporosis prevention. Too much protein, however, may compromise bone health. It is all about balance. |
| Consumer Link Healthy bones need protein |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 2005 Dec;24(6 Suppl):526S-36S. |
| February 2, 2010 Iodine is an essential nutrient needed for normal function of the thyroid gland. Good food sources of iodine include most seafood and seaweeds. Sea salt, however, is actually very low in iodine. |
| Consumer Link We all need the essential mineral iodine |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2007 Dec;65(12 Pt 1):535-43. |
| February 1, 2010 Research indicates that getting plenty of good sleep is an important component of a weight control program. Adequate sleep is especially important when starting a new exercise program. |
| Consumer Link More sleep could help control weight |
| Research Link Obesity. 2008 Mar;16(3):643-53. |
| January 31, 2010 Tasty and decorative star fruit can be enjoyed by most of us as a good source of vitamin C. However, consuming just one fruit can cause kidney failure in people with impaired kidney function. |
| Consumer Link Kidney patients should avoid star fruit |
| Research Link Food Chem Toxicol. 2008 May;46(5):1744-52. |
| January 30, 2010 Fruits and vegetables are important in the daily diet, but they are low in protein. This is one reason why other food groups also should be part of our regular fare. |
| Consumer Link Muscle is also important as a major protein reserve |
| Research Link J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 2001 Jun;56(6):M373-80. |
| January 29, 2010 Older people often have dental challenges that prevent them from eating raw and lightly cooked vegetables. Eating well-cooked vegetables is definitely better than eating none at all. |
| Consumer Link Nutritional requirements more complex for seniors |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2003 Jan;103(1):61-6. |
| January 28, 2010 For a variety of reasons, some people poorly absorb vitamin B12. These individuals can benefit from monthly injections of the vitamin to prevent short-term memory loss that can mimic early Alzheimer disease. |
| Consumer Link Nutritional requirements more complex for seniors |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2005 May;81(5):1155-62. |
| January 27, 2010 To avoid the bone loss generally seen during weight loss, consume a diet high in protein, milk products, and calcium. |
| Consumer Link Bone mass at risk during weight loss |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2008 Jun;138(6):1096-100. |
| January 26, 2010 Contrary to popular belief, Popeye does not eat spinach to get iron. Because of other components in spinach, it takes about five cups of cooked spinach to provide the same amount of absorbable iron found in three ounces of lean beef. |
| Consumer Link Lean red meat best source of iron in food |
| Research Link Eur J Clin Nutr. 2008 Mar;62(3):336-41. Epub 2007 Apr 18. |
| January 25, 2010 Impaired thyroid function can result from many causes. Poor iron nutrition is known to be one possible contributor. |
| Consumer Link Iron plays an important role for the thyroid |
| Research Link Thyroid. 2002 Oct;12(10):867-78. |
| January 24, 2010 Riboflavin (vitamin B-2) deficiency is most common in adolescent girls, the elderly, and some vegetarians. Rich food sources of riboflavin include milk products, fortified soy milk, and fortified breakfast cereals. |
| Consumer Link Riboflavin works with other vitamins |
| Research Link Med J Aust. 1984 Nov 10;141(10):635-7. |
| January 23, 2010 Vitamin B-12 is essential for normal infant brain development. If a mother has little B-12 in her diet, her milk will be low in the vitamin. Vegetarian mothers must be especially careful to consume good sources of B-12. |
| Consumer Link New moms need B-12 for baby’s milk |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2008 May;66(5):250-5. |
| January 22, 2010 Researchers find that poor nutrition may predispose some people to developing eating disorders and successful treatment requires learning how to eat again. |
| Consumer Link Normalizing nutrition eases eating disorders |
| Research Link Front Neuroendocrinol. 2008 Oct;29(4):445-62. |
| January 21, 2010 Brazil nuts are an excellent source of selenium. However, moderation is the key since only five nuts a day can contain more selenium than the tolerable upper intake level established by the Institute of Medicine. |
| Consumer Link The dark side of healthful 'superfoods' |
| Research Link Chemosphere. 1995 Feb;30(4):801-2. |
| January 20, 2010 Weight loss can cause bone loss. To protect your bones during weight loss, remember to include good food sources of protein and calcium. |
| Consumer Link Bone mass at risk during weight loss |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2008 Jun;138(6):1096-1100. |
| January 19, 2010 Those with lactose intolerance are not destined to a diet devoid of high-calcium milk products. Hard cheeses, such as cheddar and Swiss contain only trace amounts of lactose. |
| Consumer Link Even lactose intolerant can drink milk |
| Research Link Postgrad Med J. 2005 Mar;81(953):167-73. |
| January 18, 2010 The health of someone's hair is often a reflection of the adequacy of their diet. Hair thinning is sometimes a sign of inadequate iron in the diet. |
| Consumer Link Iron deficiency sometimes goes unseen |
| Research Link Eur J Dermatol. 2007 Nov-Dec;17(6):507-12. |
| January 17, 2010 Research shows that dietary protein has a positive influence on bone health, reduced hip fracture risk, and promotes post-fracture recovery. Of course it is important to remember everything in moderation. |
| Consumer Link Healthy bones need protein |
| Research Link Annu Rev Nutr. 2008;28:131-55. |
| January 16, 2010 Too often when a person plans to get into shape, they forget that getting plenty of good sleep may be the first step to eating and exercising better. |
| Consumer Link More sleep could help control weight |
| Research Link Obesity. 2008 Mar;16(3):643-53. |
| January 15, 2010 Maintaining a healthy heart means taking care of nutrition basics. Eat moderate amounts of a wide variety of foods and be sure to include fruits, vegetables, adequate fluids and daily physical activity. |
| Consumer Link Take heart care in hand for good life |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 1998 May;56(5 Pt 2):S3-19; discussion S19-28. |
| January 14, 2010 Although green tea may provide health benefits, it's important to check with your pharmacist to see if the components in green tea interfere with any pain or blood-thinning medications you take. |
| Consumer Link Green tea can clash with common drugs |
| Research Link Green Tea, MedlinePlus. |
| January 13, 2010 If you recently started exercising and haven't noticed any weight loss, remember that you are likely building muscle and losing fat. Changes in inches can occur before pounds. So, step away from the scale! |
| Consumer Link Exercise program can result in quick weight gain |
| Research Link Menopause. 2009 Jul-Aug;16(4):777-84. |
| January 12, 2010 Stay "food safe" by always washing your hands well before handling foods and by keeping cold foods cold and hot foods hot - out of the "danger zone." |
| Consumer Link How to keep bacteria off the menu |
| Research Link J Food Prot. 2003 Oct;66(10):1893-9. |
| January 11, 2010 Adequate hydration is important for good health. Because exercise increases water needs, it is important to start exercise well hydrated and consume appropriate fluids during and after exercise to limit water and salt deficits. |
| Consumer Link Water needs vary with diet and lifestyle |
| Research Link Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2008 Oct;18(5):457-72. |
| January 10, 2010 Research indicates that increased blood levels of the compound homocysteine leads to heart disease. Consuming adequate amounts of folic acid in foods or supplements can help to lower homocysteine levels. |
| Consumer Link Take heart care in hand for good life |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2000 Jun;71(6):1448-54. |
| January 9, 2010 Exercise can help to maintain healthy blood glucose levels. For some diabetics, exercise can cause blood glucose to drop too low. Therefore, it is essential to work with appropriately trained health professionals to determine the best exercise program. |
| Consumer Link Exercise helps treat diabetes |
| Research Link Sports Med. 2007;37(11):937-46. |
| January 8, 2010 Research shows that individuals deprived of sleep tend to consume more calories primarily from snacks with higher carbohydrate content. So don't forget your beauty sleep. |
| Consumer Link More sleep could help control weight |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2009 89:126-133. |
| January 7, 2010 To burn more calories - simply stand up. Standing uses twice as many calories per minute as sitting and walking briskly expends about 4 times the calories. |
| Consumer Link Too bad we can't put exercise in a pill |
| Research Link Food and Nutrition Information Center |
| January 6, 2010 The Federal Trade Commission recommends being careful about ads for “free” dietary supplements - "just for the cost of shipping." You may receive a second “subscriber” shipment in a month and a bill on your credit card. |
| Consumer Link Diet ad scams easily reported to U.S. agency |
| Research Link Federal Trade Commission |
| January 5, 2010 A lifestyle that includes frequent and consistent physical activity helps protect against colon, breast, prostate and lung cancers. |
| Consumer Link Exercise helps prevent and treat cancers |
| Research Link ACS Guidelines on Nutrition and Physical Activity |
| January 4, 2010 If past New Year’s resolutions to lose weight were short-lived, try changing the resolution to seeking health and fitness and let your body gradually find the weight that is ideal for you. |
| Consumer Link Overall health more critical than body size |
| Research Link AAOHN J. 2007 Apr;55(4):143-50. |
| January 3, 2010 A common cause of headaches is low blood sugar. Dips in blood sugar levels can be caused by skipping meals or fasting. When dieting, be sure to spread out your meals. Your brain will thank you. |
| Consumer Link Diet may play part in your headaches |
| Research Link Headache. 2009 May;49(5):744-52. |
| January 2, 2010 Consuming too little or too much carbohydrate can complicate weight loss. Eating a moderately low-calorie diet with adequate carbohydrate and protein promotes fat loss, inhibits lean tissue loss and will help to lower weight over time. |
| Consumer Link Too much carb cutting affects your brain |
| Research Link Obes Rev. 2006 Feb;7(1):49-58. |
| January 1, 2010 If you are making New Year resolutions for weight loss, remember that the three most important words in nutrition are variety, balance, and moderation. Avoid extreme changes for long-term success. |
| Consumer Link Variety, balance and moderation still outweigh any fad |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2003 Nov;133(11):3476-84. |
| December 31, 2009 Time is the main thing required to recover from consuming too much alcohol. Eating a meal, however, has been shown to increase the rate at which your body eliminates alcohol. |
| Consumer Link Sensible ways to enjoy holiday drinks |
| Research Link J Clin Pharmacol. 2001 Dec;41(12):1345-50. |
| December 30, 2009 During this season of many sweet treats, don't forget your dental health. Remember to rinse your mouth with water after eating high sugar or high acid foods (like fruits, sodas, candies, and sports drinks). |
| Consumer Link Toothy facts about what you eat |
| Research Link American Dental Association |
| December 29, 2009 New research indicates that a variety of emerging health problems may be caused decreased iodine in the U.S. food supply. When you use salt, select the iodized type. |
| Consumer Link Researchers fear deficiency of iodine intake |
| Research Link Environ Sci Technol, 42 (4), 1315-1323, 2008. |
| December 28, 2009 Are you enjoying leftover cranberry sauce or drink? So is your bladder. Substances in cranberries are known to benefit the health of the urinary tract. |
| Consumer Link Holiday berry has year-round applications |
| Research Link Mol Nutr Food Res. 2007 Jun;51(6):732-7. |
| December 27, 2009 Staying fit and maintaining a healthy weight is much easier than getting fit when out of shape. Helping a child to develop a healthy lifestyle is a great lifelong gift. |
| Consumer Link Help children develop good eating habits |
| Research Link Ann Med. 1999 Apr;31 Suppl 1:26-32. |
| December 26, 2009 There are more than 60 known factors triggering primary headaches, but low carbohydrate consumption and caffeine withdrawal are two key causative factors. To prevent those holiday headaches, don't starve yourself before the holiday parties. |
| Consumer Link Diet may play part in your headaches |
| Research Link Headache. 2009 May;49(5):744-52. |
| December 25, 2009 Santa is a big man, but he is not overly fat. His very active job keeps him more fit than fat. |
| Consumer Link Santa is larger than life but his job keeps him fit |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2009 Nov;109(11):1854-61. |
| December 24, 2009 The brain needs a steady supply of energy for normal function. Its major fuel is glucose, a sugar molecule derived primarily from high carbohydrate foods like grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. |
| Consumer Link Feed your brain for best performance |
| Research Link Rev Neurol (Paris). 2004 Sep;160(8-9):767-92. |
| December 23, 2009 To better handle those holiday drinks, avoid drinking on an empty stomach. Eating some food before drinking alcoholic beverages helps to moderate the rise in blood alcohol. |
| Consumer Link Sensible ways to enjoy holiday drinks |
| Research Link J Clin Pharmacol. 2001 Dec;41(12):1345-50. |
| December 22, 2009 High-fat meals may increase the risk of a heart attack for several hours because arteries narrow and blood flow slows. Enjoy the higher fat holiday foods, but in moderation. |
| Consumer Link Switch from fat phobia to fat smarts |
| Research Link Am J Cardiol. 1997 Feb 1;79(3):350-354 |
| December 21, 2009 For longterm health, focus on developing fitness rather an "ideal" body weight. Your ideal body weight is the weight at which you function best mentally and physically. |
| Consumer Link Overall health more critical than body size |
| Research Link AAOHN J. 2007 Apr;55(4):143-50. |
| December 20, 2009 Rapid weight loss, fasting, and diets extremely low in fat can increase the risk of gallstone disease. Protecting the gallbladder is another reason to lose weight gradually. |
| Consumer Link Painful stones gall many U.S. adults |
| Research Link Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol. 2006;20(6):1063-73. |
| December 19, 2009 A hectic holiday schedule that makes you too rushed to eat and drink on your normal schedule can back-fire by triggering headaches. |
| Consumer Link Diet may play part in your headaches |
| Research Link National Headache Foundation |
| December 18, 2009 The average American body weight has increased right along with package and serving sizes. If you are concerned about your weight, remember that weight control is often an issue of portion control. |
| Consumer Link Big servings lead unwary to overeat |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2005 Jul;82(1 Suppl):236S-241S. |
| December 17, 2009 Meeting the body's need for nutrients is "step one" in nutrition. A short supply of just one of about 50 essential nutrients will eventually lead to serious health problems. |
| Consumer Link Key nutrients lag despite ample diet |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2009 Jun;139(6):1198-202. |
| December 16, 2009 Trying to avoid packing on extra pounds over the holidays? The calories in alcoholic beverages can add up quickly without notice - another reason to drink moderately. |
| Consumer Link Alcohol adds to holiday weight gain |
| Research Link Crit Rev Clin Lab Sci. 2005;42(3):197-227. |
| December 15, 2009 Cranberries are loaded with beneficial phytochemicals that can help to prevent health problems like urinary infections. |
| Consumer Link Festive cranberries offer health perks year-round |
| Research Link Drugs. 2009;69(7):775-807. |
| December 14, 2009 Although Santa may look fat, he is actually very fit. His work requires a great deal of physical activity and this decreases his risk for disease below the risk for a sedentary thin person. |
| Consumer Link Santa might be fat, but he's still fit |
| Research Link Handb Exp Pharmacol. 2005;(170):137-63. |
| December 13, 2009 Although clams are frequently listed as a good food source of iron, chopped and minced clam products are very low in this mineral. So, don't rely on clam chowder to meet your iron needs. |
| Consumer Link Finding iron-rich foods can be a difficult task |
| Research Link J Food Comp and Analysis. 2009;(22):S78-S82. |
| December 12, 2009 If you are a serious spectator at the Honolulu Marathon this Sunday, the walking, standing, clapping and cheering you do may actually expend about half as many calories as the runners burn to go 26.2 miles. |
| Consumer Link Just watching the marathon burns calories |
| Research Link Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2004 Dec;36(12):2128-34. |
| December 11, 2009 Fish oils contain omega-3 fatty acids that are needed by the brain and also may decrease the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration. |
| Consumer Link Fish is good for the brain, study shows |
| Research Link Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2006 Jan 25;(1):CD005379 |
| December 10, 2009 If you are participating in the Honolulu Marathon this Sunday, it is time to rest. Your best preparation includes muscle repair, recovery from training, and carbo-loading. |
| Consumer Link Nutritional guide for marathon |
| Research Link J Sports Sci. 2007;25 Suppl 1:S29-38. |
| December 9, 2009 Walking 30 minutes a day or 5,000 to 10,000 steps a day can benefit overall health. Why not ask Santa for a pedometer? |
| Consumer Link Holiday exercise is easy with upfront planning |
| Research Link Sports Med. 2009;39(1):29-43. |
| December 8, 2009 Strontium is a mineral that can benefit bone strength. However, foods are not a good source of this mineral. In Europe, the drug strontium ranelate is sold as an effective and well-tolerated osteoporosis treatment. Currently, in the U.S., strontium is only available in dietary supplements. |
| Consumer Link European strontium drug spurs supplement sales in U.S. |
| Research Link J Endocrinol Invest. 2005;28(8 Suppl):50-7. |
| December 7, 2009 With aging, there is a gradual decline in physical activity and calorie needs. Some nutrient needs, however, actually increase. For example: vitamin D recommendations double at age 51 and triple for those over 70. |
| Consumer Link Cut calories, but not nutrients, as you age |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2006 Aug;106(8):1172-80. |
| December 6, 2009 Are you tired of ads for fraudulent nutrition products? File complaints about questionable products online at the Federal Trade Commission website. |
| Consumer Link Law shields consumers from dodgy products |
| Research Link Federal Trade Commission complaints |
| December 5, 2009 Compression stockings often are prescribed for people to improve poor circulation in their lower legs. Athletes are now using similar stockings to enhance sports performance and recovery from workouts. |
| Consumer Link Athletes hope stockings can improve blood flow |
| Research Link J Strength Cond Res. 2009 Jan;23(1):101-5. |
| December 4, 2009 Short term memory problems can be an early sign of Alzheimer's disease. Similar memory problems can be caused by vitamin B-12 deficiency due to age-related decline in absorption of the vitamin. |
| Consumer Link Remember B-12 for healthy aging |
| Research Link CMAJ. 2004 Aug 3;171(3):251-9. |
| December 3, 2009 Excessive alcohol consumption greatly increases the body's need for thiamin (vitamin B-1). Increased need for B-1 along with a poor-quality diet explains the erratic eye movements, staggering gait and deranged mental functions commonly seen in serious alcoholism. |
| Consumer Link B-1 deficiency causes serious health woes |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 1980 Dec;33(12):2750-61. |
| December 2, 2009 If you don't consume milk products, your diet could be low in riboflavin (vitamin B-2). A low intake of B-2 is associated with an increased risk of health problems such as cardiovascular disease and cataracts. |
| Consumer Link Riboflavin works with other vitamins |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2003 Jun;77(6):1352-60. |
| December 1, 2009 Researchers are finding that vitamin K has many more functions than previously thought. The vitamin is showing benefits for both bone and cardiovascular health. To get enough vitamin K eat dark green vegetables regularly. |
| Consumer Link Multivitamin takers may miss vitamin K |
| Research Link Thromb Haemost. 2007 Jul;98(1):120-5. |
| November 30, 2009 Strangely enough, there are trillions of bacterial organisms living in the lower part of the human intestine. A balanced diet helps this "microbiota" protect us against infections, some cancers, and possibly even the development of obesity. |
| Consumer Link Useful bacteria build intestine’s fortitude |
| Research Link Gastroenterology. 2009 Jan;136(1):65-80. |
| November 29, 2009 Fasting and extreme diets can slow down the gallbladder and increase the risk of gallstone formation. Like your brain, your gallbladder appreciates a steady supply of nutrients. |
| Consumer Link Painful stones gall many U.S. adults |
| Research Link Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol. 2006;20(6):1063-73. |
| November 28, 2009 It's the season for cranberries, but remember that cranberry juice helps to prevent urinary tract infections and can be a valuable part of the diet year-round. |
| Consumer Link Festive cranberries offer health perks year-round |
| Research Link Biotechnol Bioeng. 2006 Feb 5;93(2):297-305. |
| November 27, 2009 Nutrition misinformation is widespread on the Internet. Be sure that you are surfing reliable websites with sound science-based advice before you make radical changes in your diet. |
| Consumer Link False claims thrive on Internet |
| Research Link Indian J Med Sci. 2004 Aug;58(8):321-6. |
| November 26, 2009 As a person moves towards retirement age, their energy requirements typically go down but their protein requirements often go up. Eat good protein sources first and then consider holiday sweets. |
| Consumer Link Muscle is also important as a major protein reserve |
| Research Link Clin Nutr. 2008 Oct;27(5):675-84. |
| November 25, 2009 To ensure adequate hydration, pay attention to your sense of thirst and drink enough so that urine looks more like lemonade than apple juice. Riboflavin (vitamin B-2) in a supplement can complicate this rule by temporarily turning urine bright yellow. |
| Consumer Link Water needs vary with diet and lifestyle |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2005 Jun;63(6 Pt 2):S30-9. |
| November 24, 2009 Don't be seduced into believing that foods are "good" or "bad." Health problems can develop when a person limits their food intake to too few foods, even if they are all "good" foods. |
| Consumer Link Food is not the enemy |
| Research Link Clin Biochem. 1984 Apr;17(2):132-42. |
| November 23, 2009 The phytochemical lycopene found in tomatoes is associated with a reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration in the retina of the eye. The best absorbed sources include commonly used tomato sauce and catsup. |
| Consumer Link Tomatoes prove their worthiness |
| Research Link Canadian Medical Association Journal. 2000 Sep 19;163(6):739-44. |
| November 22, 2009 "Antioxidants" protect the body from oxidative damage. Fruits and vegetables are among of the best sources of these antioxidants. |
| Consumer Link Plant food diet can protect lungs |
| Research Link Proc Nutr Soc. 2004 Nov;63(4):579-85. |
| November 21, 2009 Researchers suggest that daily caffeine intake of adults not exceed 400 milligrams. That is the amount typically found in four 6- to 8-ounce cups of coffee, depending on the strength of the brew. |
| Consumer Link In moderation, caffeine found to aid health |
| Research Link Ann Intern Med. 2008 Jun 17;148(12):904-14. |
| November 20, 2009 Recommendations to meet daily iron needs assume that the diet includes animal foods. A diet based only on plant foods needs to contain nearly twice as much iron due to limited absorption of iron from plant foods. |
| Consumer Link Vegetarian diet alone is not panacea for health |
| Research Link Dietary Reference Intakes for Iron |
| November 19, 2009 Good vitamin D status is important for the immune system and may be especially important during the flu season. When we limit sunshine exposure, it is important to get vitamin D from foods like fatty fish and fortified milk or dietary supplements. |
| Consumer Link Holiday flu could be caused by a shortage of vitamin D |
| Research Link Epidemiol Infect. 2006 Dec;134(6):1129-40. |
| November 18, 2009 Intense exercise can actually increase oxidative stress on the body. Therefore, the more active you are, the more important it is to consume fruits and vegetables for their antioxidant benefits. |
| Consumer Link Marathon runners deplete vitamins, raise oxidative stress |
| Research Link Free Radic Biol Med. 2001 Oct 1;31(7):911-22. |
| November 17, 2009 Iron needs for physically active individuals may be 30% greater than the needs of their less active friends. Consuming food sources of well-absorbed iron is important for overall health. In general, iron is absorbed better from animal foods than from plant foods. |
| Consumer Link Iron - Micronutrient Information Center |
| Research Link Dietary Reference Intakes - Food & Nutrition Board |
| November 16, 2009 Optimal nutrition promotes optimal health. But optimal nutrition means consuming balanced amounts of essential nutrients, not excessive amounts that could strain organs like the liver and kidneys. This balance is easiest to achieve with a varied diet. |
| Consumer Link Optimal nutrition for optimal health |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2003 Nov;133(11):3476-84. |
| November 15, 2009 Besides adequate hydration, the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA may help to decrease joint pain. Key sources of these include fatty fish such as salmon and sardines and supplements of fish or algae oils. |
| Consumer Link Vitamins can help ease pain in joints |
| Research Link Am Fam Physician. 2004 Jul 1;70(1):133-40. |
| November 14, 2009 For a successful weight loss plan of action, be sure to establish good sleep patterns. Research suggests that inadequate sleep may negatively influence weight by affecting appetite and decreasing effort during physical activity. |
| Consumer Link More sleep could help control weight |
| Research Link Obesity. 2008 Mar;16(3):643-53. |
| November 13, 2009 The Internet is the largest medical library in the world, but likely contains as much health fiction as fact. This is especially true for information on food and weight loss. Seek reliable science-based websites when surfing the web. |
| Consumer Link False claims thrive on Internet |
| Research Link Indian J Med Sci. 2004 Aug;58(8):321-6. |
| November 12, 2009 Most people function best with something for breakfast. The most beneficial breakfasts provide a balanced mixture of carbohydrate, protein and fat. Without all three of these energy sources, many people fade out before lunch time. |
| Consumer Link Premium breakfast fuels a better day |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2006 Feb;83(2):211-20. |
| November 11, 2009 As long as you consume a diet with lots of variety and adequate calories, then you should be getting an adequate amount of vitamin B6. |
| Consumer Link Though B6 is important, don't overdose |
| Research Link Institute of Medicine DRI Chapter on Vitamin B-6 |
| November 10, 2009 Vegetarians are prone to vitamin B-12 deficiency, therefore if you are a vegetarian, it is important to consume a high dose supplement of vitamin B-12. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin B-12 deficiency impairs brain |
| Research Link Ann Nutr Metab. 2000;44(5-6):229-34 |
| November 9, 2009 Both regular exercise and adequate nutrition play essential roles in maintaining muscle. Consuming a whey protein supplement may help to improve skeletal muscle in older individuals. |
| Consumer Link Muscle is also important as a major protein reserve |
| Research Link Nutr Res. 2008 Oct;28(10):651-8. |
| November 8, 2009 Dietary supplements claiming to take the place of nutrients can be dangerous to the consumer. This is especially true for steroid containing products that claim to accelerate weight loss or muscle gain. |
| Consumer Link Law shields consumers from dodgy products |
| Research Link Voluntary Nationwide and International Recall of 65 Dietary Supplements |
| November 7, 2009 Although increased fluid and sodium needs are typically thought to be associated with hot weather and exercise, remember the flu can cause an increased internal temperature that requires increased fluid as well. |
| Consumer Link Fluid needs rise with temperature |
| Research Link J Occup Med Toxicol. 2008 Jan 29;3:4. |
| November 6, 2009 Your risk of gallstone disease strongly increases during prolonged fasting or rapid weight loss. Besides consuming adequate calories, regular exercise and eating enough fruits and vegetables can lower your risk of gall stones. |
| Consumer Link Painful stones gall many U.S. adults |
| Research Link Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol. 2006;20(6):1063-73. |
| November 5, 2009 The senses of taste and smell have been essential for successful evolution and survival of the human species. Consuming a diet with adequate food variety helps to prevent marginal nutrient deficiencies that can dull these senses. |
| Consumer Link Balanced living keeps senses sharp |
| Research Link Curr Opin Gastroenterol. 2007 Mar;23(2):171-7. |
| November 4, 2009 The development of an infant in the womb is amazingly complex and can be negatively affected by prescription and non-prescription medications, herbal products, and essential oils. Check with your physician or pharmacist before using any of these. |
| Consumer Link Safe conception helps prevent birth defects |
| Research Link Birth Defects Res B Dev Reprod Toxicol. 2003 Dec;68(6):505-10. |
| November 3, 2009 Moderate use of green tea may provide health benefits for many people. However, the caffeine and flavonoids in green tea can interfere with common prescription and nonprescription drugs. Check with your pharmacist. |
| Consumer Link Green tea can clash with common drugs |
| Research Link Green Tea, MedlinePlus. |
| November 2, 2009 The painful condition of osteoporosis is increasing as our population ages. Milk products are an easy way to meet bone calcium needs. If you don't consume milk products, make sure your food choices include other well absorbed sources of calcium. |
| Consumer Link Debunking calcium myths |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 1994 May;59(5 Suppl):1238S-1241S. |
| November 1, 2009 To help prevent heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), avoid eating large meals, stay upright for at least two hours after eating, exercise when the stomach is empty, maintain a healthy weight, and be happy. |
| Consumer Link Heartburn linked to many causes |
| Research Link Nutr Clin Pract. 2008 Jun-Jul;23(3):293-8. |
| October 31, 2009 The benefits of an active lifestyle are much more important for long-term health than for short-term weight loss. Many health risks associated with excess weight, such as cardiovascular disease, are greatly reduced by regular physical activity. |
| Consumer Link Worry about fitness, not fat |
| Research Link Handb Exp Pharmacol. 2005;(170):137-63. |
| October 30, 2009 To prevent a resurgence of early 20th-century rickets in children, it is important to support bone health with adequate vitamin D. When substituting rice or soy milk for cow's milk, make sure that the products are fortified with vitamin D. |
| Consumer Link Rickets makes a comeback |
| Research Link Pediatrics. 2001 Apr;107(4):E46. |
| October 29, 2009 Individuals at risk for diabetes should consider adding strength training to their exercise program. Research indicates that strength-building exercise improves the ability to clear sugar from the blood and helps to build muscle and decrease body fat. |
| Consumer Link Healthy diet, exercise can avert diabetes |
| Research Link Diabetes Care. 2003 Nov;26(11):2977-82. |
| October 28, 2009 An important treatment for type 2 (adult onset) diabetes may be daily exercise like walking and jogging in combination with strength-building resistance exercise two to three times a week. Check with your doctor. |
| Consumer Link Healthy diet, exercise can avert diabetes |
| Research Link Diabetes Care. 2003 Nov;26(11):2977-82. |
| October 27, 2009 It takes longer to get into shape than to get out of shape. Within only 2 to 3 weeks of stopping exercise, changes in fitness can be measured. Even maintaining a lower level exercise helps to prevent rapid fat gain that often occurs with abrupt cessation of an exercise program. |
| Consumer Link Abrupt decline in exercise shows up in body fat gain |
| Research Link Obesity (Silver Spring). 2006 Nov;14(11):1975-84. |
| October 26, 2009 Body dissatisfaction can cause abuse of performance-enhancing substances and excessive use of dietary supplements. Remember, excessive nutrient intake may be as harmful as inadequate intake. |
| Consumer Link Size does matter to too many men |
| Research Link Body Image. 2008 Sep;5(3):244-50. |
| October 25, 2009 Iron deficiency is one of the most common and serious nutrition problems in the world. Some types of hair loss are among the many possible effects of iron deficiency. |
| Consumer Link Iron deficiency sometimes goes unseen |
| Research Link Clin Exp Dermatol. 2002 Jul;27(5):396-404. |
| October 24, 2009 Chronic joint pain is one of the most common medical complaints. Consuming enough omega-3 fatty acids helps to relieve some types of joint pains. Fish and algae oils show the most benefit. Some plant oils like flax, walnut, and canola also may help. |
| Consumer Link Vitamins can help ease pain in joints |
| Research Link Am Fam Physician. 2004 Jul 1;70(1):133-40. |
| October 23, 2009 Caffeine is often said to be the most commonly consumed drug in the world. Moderate coffee consumption appears to reduce the risk of developing liver and gallstone diseases. |
| Consumer Link In moderation, caffeine found to aid health |
| Research Link Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2006;46(2):101-23. |
| October 22, 2009 For those with dentures or a decreased ability to chew, mixing a protein powder with a beverage or yogurt can be an easy way to meet protein requirements. |
| Consumer Link Nutritional requirements more complex for seniors |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2003 Jan;103(1):61-6. |
| October 21, 2009 Research shows that maintaining bone-mineral density with age requires a diet that provides adequate protein as well as calcium. |
| Consumer Link Healthy bones need protein |
| Research Link Annu Rev Nutr. 2008;28:131-55. |
| October 20, 2009 Vitamin D deficiency is making a comeback and the consequences include bone loss, impaired immune function, and even loss of muscle strength. Major food sources are fortified milk, fish, and fortified foods like orange juice with added calcium and vitamin D. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin D deficiency makes a comeback |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2007 Jan;85(1):6-18. |
| October 19, 2009 People want quick weight loss, but losing fat is a slow process. Preying on the quick loss desire, some non-prescription weight loss products have been identified to contain dangerous and illegal pharmaceutical ingredients. Unfortunately, unwary users of these products put their health at risk. |
| Consumer Link FDA finding dangerous diet products |
| Research Link FDA Warning About Tainted Weight Loss Pills |
| October 18, 2009 Fear of foods in the name of health or weight control can create a variety of eating problems. Extreme fear of fat and specific foods can lead to serious health problems and result in dangerous eating disorders. |
| Consumer Link Extremes in calorie control plague nation |
| Research Link Physiol Behav. 2007 Sep 10;92(1-2):283-90. |
| October 17, 2009 The body requires about 50 specific chemicals that must be obtained from foods. Inadequate intake of even one of these essential nutrients eventually impairs body function and leads to related health problems. |
| Consumer Link People should meet essential nutrient needs |
| Research Link J Cardiovasc Nurs. 2005 Nov-Dec;20(6):451-60. |
| October 16, 2009 Including fish as a regular part of your diet is associated with better heart health. Fish high in "heart-healthy" omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, herring, mackerel, sardines, anchovies, tuna, and black cod. |
| Consumer Link Lower blood triglycerides to ward off heart disease |
| Research Link Nutr Health. 2009;20(1):11-20. |
| October 15, 2009 Losing weight too quickly can cause muscle loss. This lowers calorie needs and makes it more difficult to maintain that lower weight. Moderate calorie-cutting along with an exercise program increases your odds of long-term success. |
| Consumer Link Slow fat loss key to lasting weight loss |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 1995 Jun;61(6):1179-85. |
| October 14, 2009 Research on children indicates that inadequate sleep is strongly and consistently associated with concurrent and future obesity. Getting adequate sleep may be the first step to eating and exercising better. |
| Consumer Link More sleep could help control weight |
| Research Link Obesity (Silver Spring). 2008 Mar;16(3):643-53. |
| October 13, 2009 Fiber can help to prevent constipation. Excessively high fiber intake, however, can interfere with essential mineral absorption and can even cause constipation if inadequate fluids are consumed. |
| Consumer Link Balancing the facts on fiber |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2002 May;60(5 Pt 1):127-34. |
| October 12, 2009 Choline is a nutrient that the body uses for many functions. In particular, it produces a neurotransmitter used for memory storage. A single egg contains about half of the daily choline recommendation. |
| Consumer Link Get to know choline's essential role |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 1992 Oct;11(5):473-81. |
| October 11, 2009 There is no perfect food that provides all the nutrients we require. This makes nutrition a bit of a balancing act and explains why guidelines for healthful eating stress variety, moderation, and balance. |
| Consumer Link A diet of only good foods is impossible |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2002 Jan;102(1):100-8. |
| October 10, 2009 Staying physically active allows us to consume more food. This makes it easier to meet nutrient needs from food. Calories expended to walk a mile average between 60 and 100 calories, depending on body weight. |
| Consumer Link Burn calories without burning out |
| Research Link Sports Med. 2009;39(1):29-43. |
| October 9, 2009 The B-vitamin biotin is required by cells for normal gene function. It is presently thought that biotin is especially important for cell function in older individuals. Foods rich in biotin include eggs, lean meats, salmon, peanuts, and sunflower seeds. |
| Consumer Link B vitamins are unsung heroes of good health |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2007 Jan;137(1):25-30. |
| October 8, 2009 Eating a wide variety of foods helps ensure you'll meet all your essential nutrient needs. Miss just one essential nutrient and eventually serious health problems can develop. |
| Consumer Link Nutrition key to body’s long haul |
| Research Link Nat Rev Immunol. 2008 Sep;8(9):685-98. |
| October 7, 2009 More than 60 factors are known to trigger primary headaches. Low blood glucose from skipping meals is one trigger we can control. |
| Consumer Link Diet may play part in your headaches |
| Research Link National Headache Foundation |
| October 6, 2009 The plaque that accumulates in the arteries of people with cardiovascular disease often contains calcium. Vitamin K helps to prevent this calcium accumulation called "hardening of the arteries." Green vegetables are a key source of vitamin K in the diet. |
| Consumer Link Multivitamin takers may miss vitamin K |
| Research Link Clin J Am Soc Nephrol. 2008 Sep;3(5):1504-10. |
| October 5, 2009 Research shows that mental and physical performance declines rapidly without breakfast. Any food is better than nothing, but for optimal performance a breakfast should provide a balanced mixture of energy-containing nutrients. |
| Consumer Link Premium breakfast fuels a better day |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2006 Feb;83(2):211-20. |
| October 4, 2009 People training heavily for endurance sports require more salt in their diet than the average person. Exactly how much depends on the hours and intensity of daily training and the amount of salt lost in their sweat. |
| Consumer Link Some athletes run risk of low blood sodium |
| Research Link Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2008 Oct;18(5):457-72. |
| October 3, 2009 Good nutrition is always important for health, but eating well both before and after surgery is especially needed. All nutrients are important. A well-balanced diet with adequate protein provides some of your best insurance for success. |
| Consumer Link Eat well before, after surgery |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2008 Oct;138(10):2040S-2044S. |
| October 2, 2009 Medications that decrease stomach acid also increase the risk of vitamin B-12 deficiency. People taking medications for GERD or "heartburn" should also take a supplemental source of vitamin B-12. |
| Consumer Link Pills take aim at heartburn's chronic pain |
| Research Link Ann Pharmacother. 2002 May;36(5):812-6. |
| October 1, 2009 Mental functions can be noticeably affected by inadequate nutrition. Good nutrition is the first step to a healthy mind and an active memory. |
| Consumer Link Feed your brain for best performance |
| Research Link Rev Neurol (Paris). 2004 Sep;160(8-9):767-92. |
| September 30, 2009 To reduce the risk of breast cancer, the consensus of research studies supports consuming a variety of foods in moderate amounts, including vegetables, fruits and whole grains, along with lower-fat milk and milk products, and lean meats, poultry, fish, beans and nuts. |
| Consumer Link Milk contains anti-cancer nutrients |
| Research Link Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2005 Dec;14(12):2898-904. |
| September 29, 2009 Children should be strongly encouraged to consume calcium-rich foods not only for bone health, but also because adequate calcium intake is associated with lower body fat. |
| Consumer Link Calcium can help kids cut body fat |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2003 Dec;103(12):1626-31. |
| September 28, 2009 Focusing on health and fitness rather than on dieting and achieving an "ideal" body weight helps to prevent food obsessions and an overly self-conscious attitude. |
| Consumer Link Overall health more critical than body size |
| Research Link AAOHN J. 2007 Apr;55(4):143-50. |
| September 27, 2009 It is common knowledge that iodine is essential for normal function of the thyroid gland. Less widely appreciated is the fact that normal iron status also is essential for production of the thyroid hormone. |
| Consumer Link Iron plays an important role for the thyroid |
| Research Link Thyroid. 2002 Oct;12(10):867-78. |
| September 26, 2009 Studies of people over the age of 75 years report that the heaviest individuals have the lowest risk of death. Consequently, it is not wise to attempt significant weight loss after the age of 75 without medical supervision. |
| Consumer Link Age exerts major effect on healthy body weight |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2009 Sep;90(3):505-10. |
| September 25, 2009 The carbohydrate in starchy foods and fruits supports normal brain function. When reducing calories for weight loss, eating a moderate amount of carbohydrate and adequate protein promotes fat loss, inhibits muscle loss and helps lower weight over time. |
| Consumer Link Too much carb cutting affects your brain |
| Research Link Eur J Clin Nutr. 1999 Apr;53 Suppl 1:S107-11. |
| September 24, 2009 A body shaped more like an apple than a pear has increased health risks. Adequate sleep, exercise, relaxation and a balanced diet all help the body to lose belly fat and "morph" into the preferred fruit shape. |
| Consumer Link Fat that lies beneath carries more risk |
| Research Link Curr Diabetes Rev. 2006 Nov;2(4):367-73. |
| September 23, 2009 Several nutrients influence bone health, including protein, magnesium, vitamins D and K, and, of course, calcium. These and other nutrients work together to maintain strong bones. |
| Consumer Link It takes more than calcium to build bones |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2007 Nov;137(11 Suppl):2507S-2512S. |
| September 22, 2009 A person increases the risk of gallstones when there is less stimulus for the gallbladder to contract. Diets that are very low-calorie, low-fat or low-protein decrease the stimulus to the gallbladder. |
| Consumer Link Painful stones gall many U.S. adults |
| Research Link Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol. 2006;20(6):1063-73. |
| September 21, 2009 Trillions of bacteria live in the lower part of our intestine. They thrive on our “leftovers” – food components that we can’t digest and absorb. A balanced diet supports the right proportions and amounts of beneficial types of these bacteria. |
| Consumer Link Useful bacteria build intestine’s fortitude |
| Research Link Gastroenterology. 2009 Jan;136(1):65-80. |
| September 20, 2009 Healthy weight loss is fat loss. Losing a pound of fat tissue requires eating about 3500 calories less than your body uses. This is why it takes time to lose fat and why quick weight loss is not healthy fat loss. |
| Consumer Link Focus on muscle, fat—not weight |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2009 Mar;139(3):514-21. Epub 2009 Jan 21. |
| September 19, 2009 Large research studies have clearly demonstrated that the risk for stone formation decreases when calcium consumption is increased and plenty of fluid is consumed. |
| Consumer Link Combat kidney stones with water |
| Research Link Ther Umsch. 2000 Mar;57(3):138-45. |
| September 18, 2009 When eating to prevent a specific disease is taken to extremes, eating habits can become imbalanced and lead to unexpected health problems. A diet that promotes long-term health takes a balanced approach to foods. |
| Consumer Link Eating for disease prevention may not be healthy |
| Research Link Can J Public Health. 2005;96 Suppl 3:S15-99, S16-21. |
| September 17, 2009 If the body runs low on one or more of the essential nutrients, health is compromised initially and completely lost if the deficiency goes too far for too long. To increase your odds of getting enough nutrients without too many calories, eat moderate amounts of a wide variety of foods. |
| Consumer Link Food is not the enemy |
| Research Link Appetite. 2009 Feb;52(1):253-5. |
| September 16, 2009 Getting enough water is very basic for good health. A person requiring 2000 calories a day should typically consume 2.7 liters of water per day coming from both foods and beverages. Physical exercise can greatly increase the daily water needs. |
| Consumer Link Water needs vary with diet and lifestyle |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2005 Jun;63(6 Pt 2):S30-9. |
| September 15, 2009 If you need to cut calories in your diet, mainly cut the fat calories, keep protein intake adequate and consider a multivitamin/mineral supplement to assure adequate calcium and vitamin D. |
| Consumer Link Bone mass at risk during weight loss |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2008 Jun;138(6):1096-1100. |
| September 14, 2009 Vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms are subtle and are not easily diagnosed. Sixty percent of deficiencies are due to insufficient dietary intake and malabsorption. Taking a preventive B-12 supplement is commonly recommended for those entering their sixth or seventh decades of life. |
| Consumer Link Remember B-12 for healthy aging |
| Research Link CMAJ. 2004 Aug 3;171(3):251-9. |
| September 13, 2009 Regular exercise several times a week significantly reduces depression in some people. Those who are most unfit seem to get the most benefit, and the more vigorous the exercise, the greater the benefits. |
| Consumer Link Exercise for physical, mental fitness |
| Research Link Nord J Psychiatry. 2008;62 Suppl 47:25-9. |
| September 12, 2009 Various nutrient deficiencies may play a role in Restless Legs Syndrome. Iron deficiency is the most likely contributor. Deficiencies of folic acid and vitamin B-12 also may be part of the cause in some people. |
| Consumer Link Iron deficiency might play role in jittery legs |
| Research Link Altern Med Rev. 2007 Jun;12(2):101-12. |
| September 11, 2009 Garlic can help to lower blood cholesterol. But too much garlic may increase blood-clotting time, a side effect that could prove problematic before surgery or for those taking blood thinners. |
| Consumer Link It can be possible to have too much of a good thing |
| Research Link Curr Drug Metab. 2008 Dec;9(10):1063-120. |
| September 10, 2009 Mental and physical performance can decline when people skip breakfast. A morning meal that includes a balanced mixture of carbohydrate, protein and fat can help to keep you alert without triggering the midmorning appetite. |
| Consumer Link Premium breakfast fuels a better day |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2006 Feb;83(2):211-20. |
| September 9, 2009 Research suggests that when people abruptly stop an established exercise program, they are likely to experience a rapid gain in body fat. However, just maintaining a reduced level of exercise generally prevents fat gain. |
| Consumer Link Abrupt decline in exercise shows up in body fat gain |
| Research Link Obesity (Silver Spring). 2006 Nov;14(11):1975-84. |
| September 8, 2009 Adult habits often start in childhood and this includes being a picky eater. If parents provide a wide variety of wholesome foods as the main fare, children are more likely to learn to appreciate a wide variety of foods and to obtain adequate nutrients throughout their adult life. |
| Consumer Link Help children develop good eating habits |
| Research Link Pediatrics. 1998 Mar;101(3 Pt 2):539-49. |
| September 7, 2009 It is thought that 25 to 50 percent of a person's potential for longevity is directly related to their genetic makeup. Even so, good nutrition also plays an important role in health with or without good genes for longevity. |
| Consumer Link Nutrition needed, even with ‘longevity gene’ |
| Research Link Ann Nutr Metab. 2008;52 Suppl 1:2-5. |
| September 6, 2009 Vitamin D plays important roles in the function of the immune system. If you wear sunscreen, avoid the sun, and/or have dark skin, you are more likely to need sources of vitamin D from food or supplements. |
| Consumer Link Holiday flu could be caused by a shortage of vitamin D |
| Research Link Epidemiol Infect. 2006 Dec;134(6):1129-40. |
| September 5, 2009 Vitamin B-6 is required in tiny amounts measured in thousandths of a gram. Many foods contain vitamin B-6, so it is unlikely to be too low unless your diet is extremely limited in variety or total food consumed. B-6 supplements in high doses, however, can cause nerve damage. |
| Consumer Link Though B6 is important, don't overdose |
| Research Link Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd. 2005 Nov 12;149(46):2545-6. |
| September 4, 2009 The average adult in the U.S. consumes only 75 to 80 percent of recommended intake for the essential mineral magnesium. Low magnesium intake likely contributes to many chronic ailments. A diet with a wide variety of unprocessed wholesome foods can easily meet magnesium needs. |
| Consumer Link Brown rice can provide vital magnesium |
| Research Link Magnes Res. 2008 Jun;21(2):77-82. |
| September 3, 2009 When cutting calories for weight loss, it is important to consume a moderate amount of carbohydrate-containing foods along with adequate protein. Reasonable amounts of these calorie sources help to minimize the loss of metabolically active muscle tissue and maximize the loss of fat. |
| Consumer Link Too much carb cutting affects your brain |
| Research Link Obes Rev. 2006 Feb;7(1):49-58. |
| September 2, 2009 Vitamin B-12 deficiency can seriously damage the nervous system. The risk of B-12 deficiency is greatest for the elderly and vegetarians. Blood tests for levels of methylmalonic acid and homocysteine assist physicians in the evaluation of B-12 status. |
| Consumer Link Dietary B-12 may not be enough |
| Research Link Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd. 2005 Dec 10;149(50):2789-94. |
| September 1, 2009 With good intentions to eat more healthfully, some people make extreme changes that go too far in the "healthy" direction. Taking healthy eating to an unhealthy extreme can damage health when food variety becomes too limited. |
| Consumer Link Varied menu is the best path to good health |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 1997 Mar;97(3):266-71 |
| August 31, 2009 A diet low in magnesium contributes to several chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, poor blood lipid patterns, and high blood glucose. Consuming a variety of green vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and beans helps to get adequate magnesium. |
| Consumer Link Brown rice can provide vital magnesium |
| Research Link Nutr Clin Pract. 2008 Apr-May;23(2):142-51. |
| August 30, 2009 Consuming adequate amounts of thiamin (also known as vitamin B1) has been shown to help decrease the complications of diabetes. Foods rich in thiamin include pork, nuts, fish, soybeans, and enriched grain products. |
| Consumer Link B-1 deficiency causes serious health woes |
| Research Link Curr Diabetes Rev. 2005 Aug;1(3):287-98. |
| August 29, 2009 Studies show that thyroid function can be impaired by a nutrient deficiency of iodine, iron, vitamin A, or selenium. Like other parts of the body, the small thyroid gland depends on multiple nutrients from ample amounts of a wide variety of foods in the diet. |
| Consumer Link Iron plays an important role for the thyroid |
| Research Link Thyroid. 2002 Oct;12(10):867-78. |
| August 28, 2009 A variety of nutrient deficiencies can affect brain function. For example, some cases of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder have been linked with iron deficiency. Foods with readily absorbed iron include red meat and chicken thigh. Foods high in vitamin C enhance the absorption of iron from plant foods. |
| Consumer Link Veggy diets run risk of deficiencies |
| Research Link Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2004 Dec;158(12):1113-5. |
| August 27, 2009 A research study of over 1200 women found that those consuming more than 1,100 milligrams of calcium daily from foods had almost half the risk of developing kidney stones as those who consumed less than 600 milligrams. Eight ounces of milk or yogurt contain about 300 mg of calcium. |
| Consumer Link Study finds diet can affect kidney stones |
| Research Link Arch Intern Med. 2004 Apr 26;164(8):885-91. |
| August 26, 2009 Birth defects are most likely to occur in a developing fetus before a woman knows she is pregnant. The greatest risk is during the first 8 weeks of pregnancy. Research suggests that eating a balanced diet and taking prenatal vitamins before and during pregnancy are associated with a reduced risk of birth defects. |
| Consumer Link Safe conception helps prevent birth defects |
| Research Link Nestle Nutr Workshop Ser Pediatr Program. 2008;61:79-89. |
| August 25, 2009 Inadequate dietary zinc depresses immune function, making a person more vulnerable to infectious diseases. Diets devoid of animal foods tend to increase the risk of zinc deficiency because beans and whole grains contain phytates that inhibit the absorption of zinc. |
| Consumer Link Think zinc if 20-year-old looks like 10 |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 1988 Oct;7(5):377-84. |
| August 24, 2009 Joint pain and inflammation in older people often occurs due to cartilage loss and damage from wear and tear. To help maintain joint health, consume adequate vitamin C and protein to support cartilage formation and drink plenty of fluids. |
| Consumer Link Too fast, too furious exercise is ‘pain, no gain' |
| Research Link Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2005;45(3):145-64. |
| August 23, 2009 If you are concerned about your weight and your job keeps you sedentary, find ways to make as many small extra movements as possible throughout the day. Even simple fidgeting can add up to more calories burned each day. Using the staircase is another great way to add a little exercise to your day. |
| Consumer Link Fit in fidgeting if you can't get exercise time |
| Research Link Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes. 2008 Oct;15(5):409-15. |
| August 22, 2009 Over the past few decades, portion sizes both at home and in restaurants have increased substantially. Maintaining a healthy weight doesn't necessarily mean eliminating favorite foods, but rather making sure that the portion size is appropriate. |
| Consumer Link Big servings lead unwary to overeat |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2005 Jul;82(1 Suppl):236S-241S. |
| August 21, 2009 Teenagers are sensitive about their appearance and especially about their weight. Even a joking comment or criticism about a young person's appearance can be the first step to an eating disorder. |
| Consumer Link Criticism may trigger eating disorders |
| Research Link Health Promot Int. 2008 Jun;23(2):173-89. |
| August 20, 2009 Taking medications that lower stomach acid can interfere with the absorption of important nutrients. If you are taking antacids regularly, be sure to consume a diet that provides adequate calcium. |
| Consumer Link GERD drugs are connected to osteoporosis |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2008 Feb;66(2):103-8. |
| August 19, 2009 In efforts to restrict salt, some mothers may not obtain adequate iodine from the combination of iodized table salt and foods. This is especially a problem for their infants who must obtain iodine from mother's milk. |
| Consumer Link Researchers fear deficiency of iodine intake |
| Research Link Environ. Sci. Technol., 42 (4), 1315–1323, 2008. |
| August 18, 2009 It is easy to become dehydrated before you realize it, especially in hot weather. To help prevent problems such as urinary tract infections and kidney stones, drink fluids before you become thirsty. |
| Consumer Link Make sure you consume enough water |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 2007 Oct;26(5 Suppl):535S. |
| August 17, 2009 It is a common misconception that protein from animal foods weakens bones. When the recommended intake of calcium is consumed, protein, including protein from animal foods, actually improves bone density. Milk is especially good because it is a high-quality protein source that also provides plenty of calcium. |
| Consumer Link Healthy bones need protein |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 2005 Dec;24(6 Suppl):526S-36S. |
| August 16, 2009 When people are short on sleep, they tend to be less inclined to exercise and more inclined to reduce exercise intensity. Getting adequate sleep is an essential component of a fitness program. |
| Consumer Link More sleep could help control weight |
| Research Link Obesity. 2008 Mar;16(3):643-53. |
| August 15, 2009 Muscle, the body’s major protein reserve, supports immune function, healing, blood pressure regulation, heart function, and much more. Getting adequate protein in the diet and regular exercise both help to maintain muscle as people age. |
| Consumer Link Muscle is also important as a major protein reserve |
| Research Link J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 2001 Jun;56(6):M373-80. |
| August 14, 2009 Vitamin D is synthesized in the skin in response to sunlight. Because most of us are avoiding sun exposure and wearing sunscreens to promote skin health, we need to obtain vitamin D from foods like milk and fish or from dietary supplements. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin D deficiency makes a comeback |
| Research Link Risk assessment for vitamin D |
| August 13, 2009 Some dark leafy greens and beans contain a fair amount of iron, but the mineral is usually in a form that is very poorly absorbed. In comparison, lean beef and chicken thigh provide iron that is efficiently absorbed by the body. |
| Consumer Link Lean red meat best source of iron in food |
| Research Link Eur J Clin Nutr. 2008 Mar;62(3):336-41. |
| August 12, 2009 A healthy body is a body in balance. To maintain an internal balance requires adequate nutrients from a variety of foods and food groups. Focusing on some food groups at the expense of others leads to imbalance. |
| Consumer Link It can be possible to have too much of a good thing |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 1997 Mar;97(3):266-71. |
| August 11, 2009 If lactose intolerance keeps you from enjoying foods that contain your favorite milk products, consider taking over-the-counter lactase tablets with the first bite. The enzyme contained in these products helps to digest milk sugar and prevent distress. |
| Consumer Link Even lactose intolerant can drink milk |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2003 Jun;61(6 Pt 1):221-3. |
| August 10, 2009 Rinsing your mouth with water after eating foods high in sugar or acid is a habit that can promote long-term dental health. Common foods that fit into these categories include sweets, sweet or tart fruits, fruit drinks, sodas (regular and diet), and sports drinks. |
| Consumer Link Toothy facts about what you eat |
| Research Link American Dental Association |
| August 9, 2009 Having memory problems can become somewhat worrisome. But did you know that short-term memory problems can be caused by a deficiency in vitamin B-12? If you can't remember where you left your keys, have your physician check your B-12 level. |
| Consumer Link Remember B-12 for healthy aging |
| Research Link CMAJ. 2004 Aug 3;171(3):251-9. |
| August 8, 2009 Can you be fat and fit? Yes! Of course, there are limits, but fit overweight people can have a lower risk of chronic disease than their thin sedentary counterparts. Regular physical activity helps the body gravitate to its unique genetically determined optimal weight. |
| Consumer Link Worry about fitness, not fat |
| Research Link Handb Exp Pharmacol. 2005;(170):137-63. |
| August 7, 2009 A high-protein diet increases the loss of calcium in the urine. But a diet that is slightly low in protein decreases the absorption of calcium. Overall, consuming a diet slightly greater in protein than the current recommendation is best for bone health. |
| Consumer Link Proper protein is necessary |
| Research Link Nutr Metab (Lond). 2009 Mar 13;6:12. |
| August 6, 2009 It is important to consume adequate amounts of all essential nutrients. However, because excessive intake of some nutrients can be harmful, a “Tolerable Upper Intake Level” has been established for many nutrients. These values represent the maximum daily amount of a nutrient thought to not cause harm. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin limits hard to set |
| Research Link Establishing Upper Intake Levels for Nutrients |
| August 5, 2009 As people get older, their calorie needs often decrease, however their nutrient needs stay the same or may even increase for some nutrients. Consequently, as the quantity of food consumed decreases, the quality of the overall diet needs to improve. |
| Consumer Link Cut calories, but not nutrients, as you age |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2006 Aug;106(8):1172-80. |
| August 4, 2009 It is well known that vitamin D deficiency leads to weakened bones. However, more recent research also links low vitamin D levels to increased risk of many other health problems, including certain types of cancer, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and even diabetes. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin D can protect against many diseases |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2008 Oct;66(10 Suppl 2):S182-94. |
| August 3, 2009 Modern cases of rickets have occurred when well-intentioned parents fed their infants macrobiotic diets that lacked a dietary source of vitamin D. Particularly for infants and toddlers, milk alternatives should be fortified with vitamin D since this may be the sole source of nutrients for the child. |
| Consumer Link Rickets makes a comeback |
| Research Link Pediatrics. 2001 Apr;107(4):E46. |
| August 2, 2009 Diet plays an important role in heart and blood vessel health. Consuming a balanced diet with recommended amounts of vegetables and fruits is especially important for maintaining the health of blood vessels. |
| Consumer Link Heart healthy diet helps avoid strokes |
| Research Link Eur J Cardiovasc Prev Rehabil 2010 Feb;17(1):50-5. |
| August 1, 2009 To support exercise demands, the young or old athlete must first stay hydrated and second, consume adequate amounts of high-carbohydrate foods. Without these two nutrients, an athlete's endurance will suffer. |
| Consumer Link Athletes need to hydrate and devour carbohydrates |
| Research Link Pediatr Clin North Am. 2002 Aug;49(4):829-55. |
| July 31, 2009 Nutrition is important in the prevention of osteoporosis. By eating a variety of foods you are more likely to consume the many vitamins and minerals needed for bone health. |
| Consumer Link Healthy bones are important for senior citizens |
| Research Link Br J Nutr. 2009 Jun;101(11):1581-96. |
| July 30, 2009 Skimping on fruits and vegetables may not cause identifiable short-term health problems, but the long-term health ramifications may be significant. So balance your diet with enough fruits and veggies! |
| Consumer Link Don't forget to eat your veggies |
| Research Link Cancer. 1993 Aug 1;72(3 Suppl):1015-8. |
| July 29, 2009 Choline was recently discovered to be an essential nutrient. It is needed for many things, including normal brain and liver function. Many foods contain modest amounts of choline, but eggs are especially rich. One egg provides over half of the adult daily need for choline. |
| Consumer Link Get to know choline's essential role |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 1992 Oct;11(5):473-81. |
| July 28, 2009 Studies show that eating breakfast increases the speed and accuracy of information recall, an essential skill for top performance in school or on the job. |
| Consumer Link Breakfast for a good start to day |
| Research Link Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2009 Jan 31:1-7. |
| July 27, 2009 Vitamin B-12 deficiency can manifest itself as short-term memory problems similar to early Alzheimer's disease. Taking a preventive B-12 supplement is recommended for those past their fifth decade of life. |
| Consumer Link Remember B-12 for healthy aging |
| Research Link J Nutr Health Aging. 2007 Mar-Apr;11(2):132-52. |
| July 26, 2009 Green tea contains a plethora of antioxidants, but also can raise blood pressure in high doses and should not be used by individuals with kidney inflammation, ulcers, insomnia or some heart problems. |
| Consumer Link It can be possible to have too much of a good thing |
| Research Link Nutrition. 1999 Nov-Dec;15(11-12):946-9. |
| July 25, 2009 A full life requires not only a strong body but also a healthy mind. Marginal deficiencies of many nutrients can cause subclinical depression and in turn impair memory. |
| Consumer Link Nutritional requirements more complex for seniors |
| Research Link J Nutr Health Aging. 2006 Sep-Oct;10(5):377-85. |
| July 24, 2009 Vitamin B-6 is needed to make blood, keep the nervous and immune systems functioning properly, and regulate blood glucose levels. But, high doses of this vitamin can damage nerves - especially those in the arms, hands, legs and feet. |
| Consumer Link Though B6 is important, don't overdose |
| Research Link Institute of Medicine DRI Chapter on Vitamin B-6 |
| July 23, 2009 Knowing the basics of nutrition science helps to decrease a person's susceptibility to all the “snake oil” health hype that pervades the modern world. |
| Consumer Link Nutrition key to body’s long haul |
| Research Link Int J Health Serv. 2003;33(2):383-9. |
| July 22, 2009 Good nutrition is always important for health, but it becomes even more important before and after surgery. Nutritional preparation for surgery means providing the body with adequate nutrient building blocks for both optimal immune function and tissue repair. |
| Consumer Link Eat well before, after surgery |
| Research Link Curr Opin Crit Care. 2008 Dec;14(6):690-5. |
| July 21, 2009 Lycopene, the colorful compound in tomatoes, is proving to provide many health benefits. This phytochemical is absorbed better from cooked tomato products than from fresh tomatoes, so even catsup can count as part (but not all) of your daily vegetables. |
| Consumer Link Tomatoes prove their worthiness |
| Research Link CMAJ. 2000 Sep 19;163(6):739-44. |
| July 20, 2009 Changes in food portions provided in market packaging or fast food servings have altered our recognition of a lot more calories. For example, today’s wraps are equivalent to 2 tortillas or 3 or 4 slices of bread and a large “mega-muffin” is similar to 4 muffins from 30 years ago. |
| Consumer Link Big servings lead unwary to overeat |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2005 Jul;82(1 Suppl):236S-241S. |
| July 19, 2009 The toxin in Clostridium botulinum bacteria causes muscle paralysis and even small amounts of this toxin in spoiled food can kill an adult. These bacteria live without oxygen. So, for canned foods, when in doubt, throw it out. |
| Consumer Link How to keep bacteria off the menu |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2008 Feb;66(2):103-8. |
| July 18, 2009 Because prepared and fast-food products in the U.S. usually do not contain iodized salt, researchers fear that poor iodine nutrition may be causing many health problems. |
| Consumer Link Researchers fear deficiency of iodine intake |
| Research Link Environ Sci Technol, 42 (4), 1315-1323, 2008. |
| July 17, 2009 Although too little physical activity promotes the development of obesity, research also indicates that getting too little good quality sleep may contribute to weight gain and obesity. |
| Consumer Link More sleep could help control weight |
| Research Link Obesity (Silver Spring). 2008 Mar;16(3):643-53. |
| July 16, 2009 Omega-3 fatty acids can benefit joint health. Good food sources include fatty fish such as salmon, herring and sardines. Plant sources include flaxseed oil, walnuts and canola oil. Supplemental fish oils or algae oil also provide omega-3 fatty acids and generally show more benefit than plant-oil sources. |
| Consumer Link Vitamins can help ease pain in joints |
| Research Link Am Fam Physician. 2004 Jul 1;70(1):133-40. |
| July 15, 2009 Eating a wide variety of foods in a balanced fashion is probably more important for heart health than eating any one "healthy food." |
| Consumer Link Heart health requires a varied diet |
| Research Link Curr Treat Options Cardiovasc Med. 2004 Aug;6(4):291-302. |
| July 14, 2009 Adequate calcium is good for bone health, but it is possible to get too much. The Institute of Medicine considers 2500 mg/day to be the upper limit. Indiscriminate use of calcium- fortified foods plus supplements can easily go over that limit. |
| Consumer Link How much is too much calcium? |
| Research Link ODS Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet: Calcium |
| July 13, 2009 Too often dieters cut the protein in order to cut calories. Did you know that protein needs increase during low calorie dieting? |
| Consumer Link Protein is crucial part of a sound diet |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 2004 Dec;23(6 Suppl):631S-636S. |
| July 12, 2009 Short term memory problems are often attributed to that "senior moment." But did you know that short-term memory loss can be a sign of a vitamin B-12 deficiency? Ask you physician for a B-12 check-up. |
| Consumer Link Dietary B-12 may not be enough |
| Research Link J Nutr Health Aging. 2006 Sep-Oct;10(5):377-85. |
| July 11, 2009 With an increasing number of calcium-fortified foods available, the likelihood for some people to consume too much calcium is potentially real. Excess calcium can reduce the absorption of other essential minerals like iron and zinc. It is all about balance! |
| Consumer Link How much is too much calcium? |
| Research Link Br J Nutr. 1993 Mar;69(2):533-40. |
| July 10, 2009 Low calorie diets for weight loss often reduce nutrient intake along with calories. To stay healthy, it is important to maintain adequate intake of essential nutrients. In fact, protein needs actually increase during weight loss. |
| Consumer Link Balance your calorie checkbook |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2009 Mar;139(3):514-21. |
| July 9, 2009 If a person claims a food is all “good” or all “bad” – beware. Nutrition science is complex and nutrition misinformation is common. Eating a balanced variety of foods to meet your nutritional needs is likely the safest and wisest choice. |
| Consumer Link Zeal does not make it true |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2006 Apr;106(4):601-7. |
| July 8, 2009 People with diabetes can greatly improve their condition with proper exercise and diet. Since diabetes is associated with a variety of health complications, it is important to work with certified health professionals to develop appropriate diet and exercise programs. |
| Consumer Link Exercise helps treat diabetes |
| Research Link Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes. 2009 Apr;16(2):150-5. |
| July 7, 2009 The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently found more than 70 weight loss products that contained dangerous and illegal drugs. For brand name details, visit www.fda.gov and search for "weight loss pills." |
| Consumer Link FDA finding dangerous diet products |
| Research Link FDA Warning About Tainted Weight Loss Pills |
| July 6, 2009 To maintain a healthy immune system, the body needs adequate protein for the production of antibodies. Many vitamins and trace minerals are also essential for overall health of the immune system. |
| Consumer Link More than luck needed to avoid flu |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2009 Jan;139(1):113-9. |
| July 5, 2009 Vitamin D is produced by the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight, but excessive sun exposure damages the skin. Food sources include oily ocean fish like salmon and sardines along with milk, and fortified juices. |
| Consumer Link Many don’t get enough vitamin D |
| Research Link J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2007 Jun;92(6):2130-5. |
| July 4, 2009 One of the most common causes of headaches is skipping meals. Carrying a small snack (such as a piece of fruit) may help to keep those hunger headaches away. |
| Consumer Link Diet may play part in your headaches |
| Research Link Headache. 2009 May;49(5):744-52. |
| July 3, 2009 New research on eating disorders like anorexia nervosa indicates that the associated psychological problems are caused by malnutrition and therefore a focus on re-learning how to eat is a more effective treatment than a focus on psychological therapy. |
| Consumer Link Normalizing nutrition eases eating disorders |
| Research Link Front Neuroendocrinol. 2008 Oct;29(4):445-62. |
| July 2, 2009 Most everyone has heard about the "5-A-Day" fruits and vegetables campaign. But, there also is a 3-A-Day campaign. It recommends consuming 3 servings of milk, yogurt, or cheese a day to support bone health. |
| Consumer Link 3-A-Day plan aims to boost calcium intake |
| Research Link J Fam Health Care. 2008;18(1):22-4. |
| July 1, 2009 It remains a common misbelief that sweet foods cause hyperactivity in children. However, several well-designed research studies indicated that this was not the case. |
| Consumer Link A researcher's sweet truths |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 1994 May;52(5):173-5. |
| June 30, 2009 Pervasive media images of extremely muscular and attractive men may be at the root of what is called reverse anorexia, muscle dysmorphia, big syndrome, and the Adonis Complex. This dissatisfaction with body image can lead to habits detrimental to health. |
| Consumer Link Size does matter to too many men |
| Research Link Body Image. 2008 Sep;5(3):244-50. |
| June 29, 2009 Staying physically active may be the most effective way to reduce the risk developing type 2 diabetes. Even those who are overweight have much less risk of developing diabetes if they stay physically active. |
| Consumer Link Staying active can reduce diabetes risk in adulthood |
| Research Link Diabetes Res Clin Pract. 2005 Jun;68 Suppl1:S73-81. |
| June 28, 2009 Eating disorders frequently start with a disordered eating pattern that excludes various foods perceived as fattening or "bad for you." If someone is a picky eater, they may be at greater risk of developing a serious eating problem. |
| Consumer Link Extremes in calorie control plague nation |
| Research Link Physiol Behav. 2007 Sep 10;92(1-2):283-90. Epub 2007 May 25. |
| June 27, 2009 The sodium and chloride components of salt are essential nutrients. Due to heavy sweat losses, some endurance athletes can develop dangerously low blood sodium levels. This can lead to nausea, headache, swollen hands and feet, and life-threatening brain swelling. |
| Consumer Link Some athletes run risk of low blood sodium |
| Research Link Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2008 Oct;18(5):457-72. |
| June 26, 2009 The fast food industry is often blamed for the "obesity epidemic" since fast foods provide such an easy way to consume calories. However, it is just as sensible to blame cars, TVs, computers, and video games that have reduced calorie needs by making us more sedentary. |
| Consumer Link If you're fat, you can either jog or sue |
| Research Link Tort Trial Insur Pract Law J. 2004 Fall;40(1):75-106. |
| June 25, 2009 Fish is often called “brain food” and this reputation may be deserved. One of the components of fish oil is also a major part of the human brain. There is some research that suggests consuming fish once or twice a week may help to protect brain function with aging. |
| Consumer Link Fish is good for the brain, study shows |
| Research Link Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2006 Jan 25;(1):CD005379. |
| June 24, 2009 A large research study in China found that the women in rural counties with a dairy industry had significantly higher bone density associated with their greater consumption of milk products. |
| Consumer Link Nutrition issue simmers over milk products |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 1993 Aug;58(2):219-27. |
| June 23, 2009 Even though the odds are very low for any individual to become ill from salmonella contamination in eggs, fully cooking eggs reduces this small risk even more. |
| Consumer Link Salmonella contamination is preventable |
| Research Link Foodborne Pathog Dis. 2006 Winter;3(4):403-12. |
| June 22, 2009 The statistics are sobering: One in six men will develop prostate cancer. To reduce risk, the American Cancer Society recommends eating at least five servings of fruits and vegetables each day as part of an overall balanced diet. |
| Consumer Link Good diet may lower prostate cancer risk |
| Research Link Am J Mens Health. 2008 Jun;2(2):178-89. |
| June 21, 2009 An important treatment for type 2 (adult onset) diabetes may be daily exercise like walking and jogging in combination with strength-building resistance exercise two to three times a week. Check with your doctor. |
| Consumer Link Healthy diet, exercise can avert diabetes |
| Research Link Diabetes Care. 2003 Nov;26(11):2977-82. |
| June 20, 2009 For most people, moderate use of green tea may provide health benefits. But, those who rely on drugs to treat medical conditions should be aware that green tea and its extracts can clash with many common prescription and nonprescription drugs. |
| Consumer Link Green tea can clash with common drugs |
| Research Link Green Tea, MedlinePlus. |
| June 19, 2009 Research shows a relationship between increased dietary calcium and lower body fat in both adults and children. Although this concept is still being explored, it provides another reason to include calcium rich foods in your diet. |
| Consumer Link Calcium can help kids cut body fat |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2003 Dec;103(12):1626-31. |
| June 18, 2009 The "Health at Every Size" movement emphasizes a focus on health and fitness rather than on diets and seeking an "ideal" body weight. Growing evidence indicates that this approach likely benefits long term health more than a focus on weight loss. |
| Consumer Link Overall health more critical than body size |
| Research Link AAOHN J. 2007 Apr;55(4):143-50. |
| June 17, 2009 Most drugs taken to treat heartburn can greatly reduce the ability to absorb vitamin B-12 from foods. Consequently, people taking these medications also should take a supplemental source of vitamin B-12. |
| Consumer Link Pills take aim at heartburn's chronic pain |
| Research Link Ann Pharmacother. 2002 May;36(5):812-6. |
| June 16, 2009 About 70 genes are known to control metabolic links associated with obesity. Consequently, the causes and treatments of obesity can vary greatly from one person to another. |
| Consumer Link Can you blame your genes for tight jeans? |
| Research Link J Intern Med. 2003 Nov;254(5):401-25. |
| June 15, 2009 What is the best way for an overweight, sedentary person to become active? Gradually! Fitness is a lifetime commitment, so start slow and build to a steady but sustainable pace. |
| Consumer Link Shaping up when you're out of shape |
| Research Link Cardiol Clin. 2001 Aug;19(3):459-70. |
| June 14, 2009 If you want to lose fat, rapid weight loss is not for you. Quick fat loss is impossible. One pound of body fat contains about 3,500 calories. Consequently, a 200-pound person needs to run about 24 miles to expend enough calories to lose a pound of fat tissue. |
| Consumer Link Slow fat loss key to lasting weight loss |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 1995 Jun;61(6):1179-85. |
| June 13, 2009 During exercise, children may be more likely than adults to overheat. Especially when a child is dehydrated at the start of exercise, the risk of overheating is greater. Meeting water needs before and during exercise is essential. |
| Consumer Link Demands of exercise different for children and adults |
| Research Link Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2008 Apr;33(2):420-7. |
| June 12, 2009 Food safety is a year-round concern, but the incidence of foodborne illness increases during the hot summer months. A good preventive measure is to wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds before preparing any foods. |
| Consumer Link How to keep bacteria off the menu |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2004 Nov;104(11):1708-17. |
| June 11, 2009 Summer heat increases water needs. Severe dehydration can lead to a medical emergency. Less severe chronic under-hydration has fewer obvious signs but can lead to problems like kidney stones, blood pressure fluctuations, headaches and intestinal problems. |
| Consumer Link Summer time is fluid time to stay safe |
| Research Link Eur J Clin Nutr. 2003 Dec;57 Suppl 2:S19-23. |
| June 10, 2009 The location of body fat is associated with the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Risk is greatest when most of the fat is located internally around the belly area, creating the apple shape. Incorporate adequate sleep, exercise, relaxation and a balanced diet to decrease your risks. |
| Consumer Link Fat that lies beneath carries more risk |
| Research Link Curr Diabetes Rev. 2006 Nov;2(4):367-73. |
| June 9, 2009 A variety of dietary supplements are promoted for prostate health, but the best research evidence currently supports eating a balanced diet with a good variety of fruits and vegetables and staying fit as the best way to support prostate health. |
| Consumer Link Healthy habits help protect the prostate |
| Research Link Am J Mens Health. 2008 Jun;2(2):178-89. Epub 2008 Feb 29. |
| June 8, 2009 Most people function best (mentally and physically) with something for breakfast. The most beneficial breakfasts provide a balanced mixture of carbohydrate, protein and fat. Without all three of these energy sources, many people fade out before lunch time. |
| Consumer Link Premium breakfast fuels a better day |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2006 Feb;83(2):211-20. |
| June 7, 2009 Research indicates that it takes longer to get into shape than to get out of shape. Within only 2 to 3 weeks of stopping exercise, changes in fitness can be measured. Maintaining a reduced amount of exercise helps to prevent rapid fat gain that often occurs with abrupt cessation of an exercise program. |
| Consumer Link Abrupt decline in exercise shows up in body fat gain |
| Research Link Obesity (Silver Spring). 2006 Nov;14(11):1975-84. |
| June 6, 2009 Making healthy food choices is not as simple as choosing only “good foods” and avoiding all “bad foods.” Most natural foods contain both healthful properties and properties that in excess can cause harm. Good nutrition is not black and white. |
| Consumer Link A diet of only good foods is impossible |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2002 Jan;102(1):100-8. |
| June 5, 2009 Encouraging family health by being a good role model for healthy eating and regular physical activity can be a lifelong gift to your child. Try providing frequent opportunities for enjoyable physical activities to help prevent excess weight gain in children and teens. |
| Consumer Link Parents can influence kids weight gain |
| Research Link Eur J Pediatr. 2000 Sep;159 Suppl 1:S35-44. |
| June 4, 2009 Children should decide when they have had enough to eat. Parents, however, are responsible for creating a food environment that provides the child with a wide variety of wholesome foods and keeps high calorie tasty treats as occasional options. |
| Consumer Link Help children develop good eating habits |
| Research Link Pediatrics. 1998 Mar;101(3 Pt 2):539-49. |
| June 3, 2009 To help your body maintain a healthy heart, take care of the basics. Eat moderate amounts of a wide variety of foods and be sure to include fruits, vegetables, adequate fluids and daily physical activity. |
| Consumer Link Take heart care in hand for good life |
| Research Link JAMA. 2002 Nov 27;288(20):2569-78. |
| June 2, 2009 The best way to protect your lungs from the oxidative damage that can lead to lung diseases is to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables as part of an overall balanced diet. |
| Consumer Link Plant food diet can protect lungs |
| Research Link Int J Tuberc Lung Dis. 2005 Apr;9(4):362-74. |
| June 1, 2009 More than 300 species of bacteria naturally live in the mouth. Some of these bacteria convert sugar into acids that gradually dissolve and erode tooth enamel. Foods that stimulate saliva flow can protect teeth by helping to flush acids out of the mouth. |
| Consumer Link Toothy facts about what you eat |
| Research Link J Am Dent Assoc. 2008 May;139 Suppl:18S-24S. |
| May 31, 2009 Depression, no matter what the cause, can result in memory problems. Several vitamin and mineral deficiencies can cause depression. Eating a wide variety of foods helps to meet these nutrient needs. |
| Consumer Link Feed your brain for best performance |
| Research Link Rev Neurol (Paris). 2004 Sep;160(8-9):767-92. |
| May 30, 2009 Choline is an essential nutrient required by all cells. It is especially important for normal brain and muscle function. Most foods provide choline, with the richest sources being liver and eggs, followed by most meats, poultry, and fish. |
| Consumer Link Get to know choline's essential role |
| Research Link Annu Rev Nutr. 2006;26:229-50. |
| May 29, 2009 A steady supply of oxygen is essential for life. Too much oxygen, however, can be harmful to the body. Consuming plenty of fruits, vegetables, beans and grains helps to protect lungs from oxidative damage. |
| Consumer Link Plant food diet can protect lungs |
| Research Link Proc Nutr Soc. 2004 Nov;63(4):579-85. |
| May 28, 2009 Strictly speaking, there is no dietary requirement for carbohydrate. The brain, however, prefers glucose for its metabolic fuel and uses about 400 calories of the blood sugar glucose each day. For this reason, some carbohydrate sources are recommended in all prudent diets. |
| Consumer Link Too much carb cutting affects your brain |
| Research Link Eur J Clin Nutr. 1999 Apr;53 Suppl 1:S107-11. |
| May 27, 2009 To increase your odds of getting plenty of essential nutrients and other beneficial food components that promote the highest level of health, eat moderate amounts of a wide variety of foods. |
| Consumer Link Food is not the enemy |
| Research Link Clin Biochem. 1984 Apr;17(2):132-42. |
| May 26, 2009 The senses of taste and smell are essential for selection of safe foods that are not spoiled and toxic. Eating a variety of foods can support keen senses by providing key nutrients such as vitamin A, thiamin (B1), iron, zinc and copper. |
| Consumer Link Balanced living keeps senses sharp |
| Research Link Curr Opin Gastroenterol. 2007 Mar;23(2):171-7. |
| May 25, 2009 Good nutrition is especially important before and after surgery. Glutamine, an amino acid especially high in animal foods and available in supplement form, is known to be especially helpful when significant amounts of body tissue must be repaired and replaced. |
| Consumer Link Eat well before, after surgery |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2008 Oct;138(10):2040S-2044S. |
| May 24, 2009 Parents are responsible for what, when and where children are able to eat. Providing and promoting a wide variety of wholesome foods is essential for helping a child meet nutrient needs and avoid becoming a picky eater. |
| Consumer Link Help children develop good eating habits |
| Research Link Ann Med. 1999 Apr;31 Suppl 1:26-32. |
| May 23, 2009 Although there have been many studies suggesting anti-cancer properties of certain foods, the consensus of scientific studies supports consuming a variety of foods in moderate amounts, including vegetables, fruits and whole grains, along with lower-fat milk and milk products, and lean meats, poultry, fish, beans and nuts. |
| Consumer Link Milk contains anti-cancer nutrients |
| Research Link Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2005 Dec;14(12):2898-904. |
| May 22, 2009 Based on current research, fish oils offer a number of protective functions. Adding a large serving of oily fish to the diet may reduce the risk of sudden heart attacks and strokes in women. |
| Consumer Link Fat is essential for health, in right types and amounts |
| Research Link J Cardiovasc Med 2007 Sep;8 Suppl 1:S23-6. |
| May 21, 2009 Breakfast can increase the speed and accuracy of recalling information. To get a good start on meeting daily nutrient needs, try eating one-fourth of the day's calories at breakfast. |
| Consumer Link Breakfast for a good start to day |
| Research Link Indian Pediatr. 2008 Oct;45(10):824-8. |
| May 20, 2009 After mid-life, people generally experience a gradual loss of muscle mass. Both regular exercise and adequate nutrition play essential roles in preventing excessive muscle loss with age. |
| Consumer Link Muscle is also important as a major protein reserve |
| Research Link Clin Nutr. 2008 Oct;27(5):675-84. |
| May 19, 2009 Vegetarian diets are not always healthy. Whether you consume animal products or not, consuming a good balance of essential nutrients is more important than what the diet excludes. |
| Consumer Link Vegetarian physician debunks dietary myths |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2009 May;89(5):1607S-1612S. |
| May 18, 2009 A woman's bones are designed to handle the demands of pregnancy as long as her diet has an adequate supply of all nutrients - especially calcium. |
| Consumer Link Childbearing strains mom's calcium level |
| Research Link Salud Publica Mex. 2009;51 Suppl 1:S100-7. |
| May 17, 2009 Good nutrition is needed for a healthy mind and an active memory. Eating a wide variety of foods from all of the food groups helps to provide all nutrients needed for peak brain function. |
| Consumer Link Feed your brain for best performance |
| Research Link J Nutr Health Aging. 2006 Sep-Oct;10(5):377-85. |
| May 16, 2009 An elevated blood level of homocysteine is considered to be a risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease. Taking a daily multi-vitamin with vitamins B6, B12, and folate can help to reduce homocysteine. |
| Consumer Link Take heart care in hand for good life |
| Research Link Arch Latinoam Nutr. 1997 Jun;47(2 Suppl 1):9-12. |
| May 15, 2009 The “longevity gene” may play a role in the length of a person’s life, but nutrition and exercise are still extremely important to the quality of life. Even if health begins to decline, good dietary habits can decrease the progression and severity of problems no matter what genes you have. |
| Consumer Link Nutrition needed, even with ‘longevity gene’ |
| Research Link Ann Nutr Metab. 2008;52 Suppl 1:2-5. |
| May 14, 2009 Why influenza viruses show up when they do is a medical puzzle. One theory proposes that because vitamin D status drops during the winter months, people become more susceptible to infection. Foods high in vitamin D include fatty fish and D-fortified foods like milk. |
| Consumer Link Holiday flu could be caused by a shortage of vitamin D |
| Research Link Virol J. 2008 Feb 25;5:29. |
| May 13, 2009 Fats and oils in our diet provide nutrients called essential fatty acids. However, some fats are rather low in these nutrients. For example, it requires about 2,000 calories of olive oil to meet the daily recommended intake of omega-3 fatty acids compared to only 200 calories worth of soybean oil. |
| Consumer Link Jack Sprat missed out on essential acids |
| Research Link Biochem Pharmacol. 2009 Mar 15;77(6):937-46. Epub 2008 Oct 28. |
| May 12, 2009 Including enough high fiber plant foods in the diet can benefit intestinal health. Too much fiber, however, can reduce the ability to absorb essential minerals like iron, copper and zinc. |
| Consumer Link Balancing the facts on fiber |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2002 May;60(5 Pt 1):127-34. |
| May 11, 2009 Less than 2 milligrams of vitamin B-6 is all that is needed to meet an adult’s daily needs; only 200 milligrams consumed daily can cause nerve damage over time. Check that your dietary supplement does not contain toxic levels of this essential nutrient. |
| Consumer Link Though B6 is important, don't overdose |
| Research Link Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd. 2005 Nov 12;149(46):2545-6. |
| May 10, 2009 Since about one out of every 200 people carries a gene that makes them susceptible to iron overload disease, iron supplements should not be taken needlessly. However, medically supervised use of iron supplements is extremely important for treating the much more common problem of iron deficiency. |
| Consumer Link Iron level is important to good health |
| Research Link Hematology Am Soc Hematol Educ Program. 2003:40-61. |
| May 9, 2009 The most common conditions linked to low magnesium intake are high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and osteoporosis. That’s a good reason to include green vegetables, beans, whole grains, and nuts in your daily diet. |
| Consumer Link Brown rice can provide vital magnesium |
| Research Link Magnes Res. 2008 Jun;21(2):77-82. |
| May 8, 2009 If you find yourself craving salt as the weather heats up, there could be a good reason. Due to increased sodium loss in sweat, the sodium needs of those who work outdoors all day can substantially exceed current recommendations for sodium intake. |
| Consumer Link Fluid needs rise with temperature |
| Research Link J Occup Med Toxicol. 2008 Jan 29;3:4. |
| May 7, 2009 Both too little and too much carbohydrate can complicate weight management. Eating a moderately low-calorie diet with adequate carbohydrate and protein promotes fat loss, inhibits lean tissue loss and will help to maintain a lower body weight over time. |
| Consumer Link Too much carb cutting affects your brain |
| Research Link Obes Rev. 2006 Feb;7(1):49-58. |
| May 6, 2009 Studies of a French drug called strontium ranelate have shown that it treats osteoporosis as effectively as other common drugs used to boost bone density. In the U.S., this drug is not available, but dietary supplements are sold that contain strontium. |
| Consumer Link European strontium drug spurs supplement sales in U.S. |
| Research Link J Endocrinol Invest. 2005;28(8 Suppl):50-7. |
| May 5, 2009 If the label of a food or dietary supplement indicates 100% of the "Daily Value" for vitamin A, then one serving of the product contains about 200% of the daily intake currently recommended by the Institute of Medicine. Since high vitamin A intake may promote bone loss and birth defects, revision of labeling regulations is long overdue. |
| Consumer Link Too much vitamin A can be toxic |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2007 Oct;65(10):425-38. |
| May 4, 2009 Vitamin B-12 is essential for many nervous system functions including overall brain function and especially short-term memory. B-12 is naturally present in animal foods like meat, milk products, and eggs. Also, this vitamin is added to some foods like fortified soymilk. |
| Consumer Link Lack of B-12 Widespread |
| Research Link Clin Chim Acta. 2002 Dec;326(1-2):47-59. |
| May 3, 2009 Both excess iron and iron deficiency are common in older people. Either extreme may lead to health problems if not treated. To maintain health, older individuals should consume adequate amounts of iron-containing foods and have their iron status checked periodically. |
| Consumer Link Seniors still need adequate iron for good health |
| Research Link Int J Vitam Nutr Res. 1996;66(1):66-70. |
| May 2, 2009 If you frequently have an irritation or a cut at the corners of your mouth, your diet might be low in vitamin B-2. Reasonable sources of B-2 (riboflavin) include fortified cereals, milk and other dairy products, almonds, and meats. |
| Consumer Link Riboflavin works with other vitamins |
| Research Link Med J Aust. 1984 Nov 10;141(10):635-7. |
| May 1, 2009 Vitamin K is beneficial for blood, bone, and cardiovascular health, but it is commonly left out of multi-vitamin supplements. Green vegetables are the main source of vitamin K in most people's diets. |
| Consumer Link Multivitamin takers may miss vitamin K |
| Research Link Clin J Am Soc Nephrol. 2008 Sep;3(5):1504-10. |
| April 30, 2009 Disease mongering is the process of enlarging the market for a disease treatment by convincing people that they have a medical condition that is treatable. Common examples are the TV ads that encourage you to ask your doctor about drug X if you think you have some ailment. |
| Consumer Link Hype drives prescriptions' popularity |
| Research Link PLoS Med. 2008 May 27;5(5):e106. |
| April 29, 2009 A high level of blood triglycerides is one of many risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Consuming fish two or three times a week provides omega-3 fatty acids that can help to decrease triglycerides. |
| Consumer Link Lower blood triglycerides to ward off heart disease |
| Research Link Nutr Health. 2009;20(1):11-20. |
| April 28, 2009 During pregnancy, even non-prescription medications, herbal products and essential oils have the potential to cause birth defects. Drugs and herbal supplements should be used only with the guidance of a physician or pharmacist. |
| Consumer Link Safe conception helps prevent birth defects |
| Research Link Birth Defects Res B Dev Reprod Toxicol. 2003 Dec;68(6):505-10. |
| April 27, 2009 As the weather warms up, the body’s fluid needs increase due to greater sweat loss. Even unnoticeable sweat loss can lead to a drop in blood volume that could increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke. Remember to drink more fluids in hot weather. |
| Consumer Link Fluid needs rise with temperature |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2005 Jun;63(6 Pt 2):S2-5. |
| April 26, 2009 The Internet is loaded with misinformation. Before you let the Internet drive your beliefs and your food choices, be sure that you are surfing reliable websites with sound science-based advice. |
| Consumer Link False claims thrive on Internet |
| Research Link Indian J Med Sci. 2004 Aug;58(8):321-6. |
| April 25, 2009 Exercise and nutrition go hand-in-hand to promote good health. As it turns out, three 10-minute walks are just as beneficial to health as one 30-minute walk and are much easier to fit into a busy lifestyle. |
| Consumer Link Burn calories without burning out |
| Research Link Sports Med. 2009;39(1):29-43. |
| April 24, 2009 Vitamin K contributes to bone health by helping bones retain calcium. In contrast, vitamin K benefits cardiovascular health by preventing calcium accumulation in blood vessels and hardening of the arteries. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin K helps bones, brain and eyes |
| Research Link Thromb Haemost. 2007 Jul;98(1):120-5. |
| April 23, 2009 Some pregnant women may get too little of the “unsung” B-vitamin biotin. This may increase the risk of certain birth defects. Foods rich in biotin include eggs, most lean meats, some fish such as salmon, and some nuts and seeds like peanuts and sunflower seeds. |
| Consumer Link B vitamins are unsung heroes of good health |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2009 Jan;139(1):154-7. |
| April 22, 2009 To help weight loss be fat loss, cut down on foods high in fat, sugar, and starch. Protein needs actually increase during weight loss, so maintain an adequate intake of high protein foods. |
| Consumer Link Careful diet plan sheds fat |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 2004 Dec;23(6 Suppl):631S-636S. |
| April 21, 2009 A three-year study of women over 65 found that a daily supplement with 700 IU of vitamin D reduced the odds of falling by 46 percent in the more active women and by 65 percent in less-active women. Other studies report that good vitamin D status enhances lower-body strength and coordination. |
| Consumer Link Lower risk of falling with good nutrition |
| Research Link Arch Intern Med. 2006 Feb 27;166(4):424-30. |
| April 20, 2009 Hair loss is often the unavoidable consequence of aging. However, hair thinning is sometimes a sign of inadequate iron in the diet. Physicians who specialize in treating hair thinning prefer to see the index of body iron stores (ferritin) at a level greater than 70 ng/ml. |
| Consumer Link Iron deficiency sometimes goes unseen |
| Research Link Clin Exp Dermatol. 2002 Jul;27(5):396-404. |
| April 19, 2009 Drinking cranberry juice may be just what is needed to prevent urinary tract infections. This prevention occurs by reducing the ability of unwanted microorganisms to adhere to cells lining the urinary tract. |
| Consumer Link Festive cranberries offer health perks year-round |
| Research Link Biotechnol Bioeng. 2006 Feb 5;93(2):297-305. |
| April 18, 2009 The most common type of kidney stones are made of calcium oxalate. But, cutting back on calcium is not the answer. Instead, high calcium foods like milk, cheese, and yogurt reduce the absorption of oxalate and help to decrease stone formation. |
| Consumer Link Combat kidney stones with water |
| Research Link Urology. 2009 Mar;73(3):484-9. |
| April 17, 2009 During pregnancy, the developing fetus requires about 30,000 milligrams of calcium for its skeleton. Much of this calcium is drawn from the mother’s bones. Consuming adequate amounts of high calcium foods before and during pregnancy can help to maintain bone quality. |
| Consumer Link Childbearing strains mom's calcium level |
| Research Link J Mammary Gland Biol Neoplasia. 2005 Apr;10(2):105-18. |
| April 16, 2009 The average U.S. adult consumes only 75 to 80 percent of the amount of magnesium recommended. This may contribute to high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and osteoporosis. Green vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and beans are all good food sources. |
| Consumer Link Brown rice can provide vital magnesium |
| Research Link Nutr Clin Pract. 2008 Apr-May;23(2):142-51. |
| April 15, 2009 Athletes often take creatine supplements to boost muscle performance in high intensity sports. The brain also uses creatine for energy and supplements may enhance certain types of brain performance. Food sources are meats, poultry and fish. |
| Consumer Link Creatine has wide range of benefits |
| Research Link Neurosci Res. 2002 Apr;42(4):279-85. |
| April 14, 2009 Exercise stimulates muscles to accumulate protein and build muscle fibers. But, this is only possible with an adequate supply of key nutrients, including protein. Both regular exercise and adequate nutrition play essential roles in maintaining muscle. |
| Consumer Link Muscle is also important as a major protein reserve |
| Research Link Nutr Res. 2008 Oct;28(10):651-8. |
| April 13, 2009 Poor iron nutrition may predispose people to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. When low iron status is properly diagnosed in a child with ADHD, iron supplementation may reduce symptoms. |
| Consumer Link Veggy diets run risk of deficiencies |
| Research Link Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2004 Dec;158(12):1113-5. |
| April 12, 2009 The gallbladder could be considered a “use it or lose it” organ. If the flow of bile slows down, gallstones are more likely to form. Fasting and extreme diets can slow down the gallbladder and increase the risk of gallstone formation and possibly the need for gallbladder surgery. |
| Consumer Link Painful stones gall many U.S. adults |
| Research Link Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol. 2006;20(6):1063-73. |
| April 11, 2009 Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oils are known to provide a variety of health benefits. Similar fatty acids in plant oils like canola and flax oils don’t have the same effects, but new plant oils are being developed that may match the benefits of fish oils. |
| Consumer Link Fatty acids are not all created equal |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2009 Jan;139(1):5-10. Epub 2008 Dec 3. |
| April 10, 2009 Over 50 specific chemicals such as vitamins, minerals, fatty acids and amino acids are required for the body to function. Picky eaters often miss out on many essential nutrients and other beneficial food components. Get excited about exploring the world of food and it will benefit your health throughout your life! |
| Consumer Link Nutrition key to body’s long haul |
| Research Link Nat Rev Immunol. 2008 Sep;8(9):685-98. |
| April 9, 2009 Successful weight loss equals fat loss. Weight loss that is mostly from body water and muscle mass will only be temporary. Regular physically activity that includes both strength training and endurance exercises helps to promote fat loss - weight loss that lasts! |
| Consumer Link Resolved: Keep sanity in diet plan |
| Research Link Exerc Sport Sci Rev. 2005 Oct;33(4):169-74. |
| April 8, 2009 Equilibrium is the key to maintaining good health. It is best to maintain a balanced nutrient intake with a wide variety of wholesome foods. When that is difficult, reasonable use of nutritional supplements can fill some gaps. |
| Consumer Link Balanced living keeps senses sharp |
| Research Link Nurs Times. 2005 Jan 4-10;101(1):30-1. |
| April 7, 2009 The metal zinc is an essential nutrient that has 100s of functions in the body. Among other things, zinc deficiency impairs the senses of taste and smell. The best absorbed sources of zinc are meat, poultry, and fish. |
| Consumer Link Think zinc if 20-year-old looks like 10 |
| Research Link Yakugaku Zasshi. 2008 Mar;128(3):333-9. |
| April 6, 2009 About 60 percent of the students in a high school had blood test results associated with iron deficiency. Symptoms, including dizziness, irritability, and depression, were successfully treated with iron supplements. Food sources of iron include red meat, dark poultry meat, and fortified breakfast cereals. |
| Consumer Link Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet on Iron |
| Research Link Scand J Prim Health Care. 2005 Mar;23(1):28-33. |
| April 5, 2009 A healthy body contains trillions of bacterial organisms living in the intestine. This is actually a good thing! The right proportions and amounts of beneficial types of bacteria can protect against infections, the development of some cancers, and possibly even the development of obesity. |
| Consumer Link Useful bacteria build intestine’s fortitude |
| Research Link Gastroenterology. 2009 Jan;136(1):65-80. |
| April 4, 2009 A 28-year old theory proposes that iron accumulation in the body increases the risk for coronary heart disease. To date, however, this theory remains unproved, with several studies refuting the theory. It is likely that both too much and too little iron increase health risks. |
| Consumer Link Iron level is important to good health |
| Research Link Can J Cardiovasc Nurs. 2009;19(1):26-32. |
| April 3, 2009 A sedentary lifestyle means you require limited calories. This makes it more challenging to meet your daily essential nutrient needs. Physical activity may be good for your health partly because you can eat more! Go exercise! |
| Consumer Link Nutrition key to body’s long haul |
| Research Link Appl Physiol. 2008 Sep;105(3):988-1001. |
| April 2, 2009 Fear of the unknown is a logical human survival trait that can raise suspicions about advances in agricultural biotechnology. To avoid unnecessary fears of food, be sure to educate yourself on all aspects of genetic engineering. |
| Consumer Link Technology seen as boost to agriculture |
| Research Link Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2003 Jun;90(6 Suppl 3):90-8 |
| April 1, 2009 Calcium is a key nutrient for bone health, but it is not the only important nutrient for bones. Adequate protein along with magnesium and vitamins D and K may be equally important for maintaining strong bones. |
| Consumer Link It takes more than calcium to build bones |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2007 Nov;137(11 Suppl):2507S-2512S. |
| March 31, 2009 A sedentary lifestyle is one of the major contributors to the development of type 2 diabetes. Daily exercise is a cornerstone in the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes. |
| Consumer Link Exercise can help dilute adult diabetes |
| Research Link J Appl Physiol. 2007 Oct;103(4):1113-20. Epub 2007 Jul 26. |
| March 30, 2009 Some studies link moderate coffee consumption with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, as well as Parkinson's, liver and gallstone diseases. These types of studies can't claim cause and effect, but they do reduce concerns about possible harmful effects. |
| Consumer Link In moderation, caffeine found to aid health |
| Research Link Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2006;46(2):101-23. |
| March 29, 2009 In addition to helping blood clot normally, vitamin K benefits both bone and cardiovascular health. To get enough vitamin K eat dark green vegetables regularly. |
| Consumer Link Multivitamin takers may miss vitamin K |
| Research Link Thromb Haemost. 2007 Jul;98(1):120-5. |
| March 28, 2009 Over 50 years ago, Dr. Jean Mayer demonstrated that sedentary people tend to eat more calories than they need. He found that even modest levels of daily physical activity helped to control appetite and promote a healthy body weight. |
| Consumer Link Too bad we can't put exercise in a pill |
| Research Link Sports Med. 1988 Sep;6(3):135-45. |
| March 27, 2009 There is evidence that some of the complications of diabetes are caused by an increased need for vitamin B1. Foods rich in vitamin B1 (thiamin) include pork, nuts, fish, soybeans, and enriched grain products. |
| Consumer Link B-1 deficiency causes serious health woes |
| Research Link Curr Diabetes Rev. 2005 Aug;1(3):287-98. |
| March 26, 2009 Poor iron nutrition can impair the ability of the thyroid gland to use iodine to produce thyroid hormone. It is a good idea for people with thyroid problems to get a full evaluation of their iron status. |
| Consumer Link Iron plays an important role for the thyroid |
| Research Link Thyroid. 2002 Oct;12(10):867-78. |
| March 25, 2009 Water is an important essential nutrient. Virtually every function in the body is dependent on the presence of enough water. In addition, adequate water can help to prevent urinary tract infections and kidney stones. |
| Consumer Link Make sure you consume enough water |
| Research Link Urol Int. 2004;72 Suppl 1:29-33. |
| March 24, 2009 Researchers estimate that about 5 percent of obese people can blame their condition completely on genetics. Those with purely "genetic obesity" will be overly fat even with eating and exercise habits that would prevent obesity in most people. |
| Consumer Link Can you blame your genes for tight jeans? |
| Research Link J Intern Med. 2003 Nov;254(5):401-25. |
| March 23, 2009 Vitamins are absolutely essential for normal body function. Carbohydrate and fiber, however, are debatably essential but proper amounts in the daily diet can benefit health. |
| Consumer Link People should meet essential nutrient needs |
| Research Link J Cardiovasc Nurs. 2005 Nov-Dec;20(6):451-60. |
| March 22, 2009 Tomatoes contain high levels of lycopene, an antioxidant associated with reduced risk of prostate cancer, heart disease, and macular degeneration. Lycopene is absorbed better from tomato products like tomato sauce and catsup than it is from raw tomatoes. Tomato soup anyone? |
| Consumer Link Tomatoes prove their worthiness |
| Research Link Canadian Medical Association Journal. 2000 Sep 19;163(6):739-44. |
| March 21, 2009 Consuming three to four milk product servings daily is estimated to cut the risk of developing kidney stones in half by reducing the amount of oxalate absorbed from high-oxalate foods such as spinach, amaranth, cassava and taro leaves. |
| Consumer Link Combat kidney stones with water |
| Research Link Ther Umsch. 2000 Mar;57(3):138-45. |
| March 20, 2009 Exercise can provoke asthma in some people, however regular exercise can actually reduce the frequency of attacks. There is also some evidence that staying hydrated with plenty of fluids helps to reduce asthma in general. |
| Consumer Link Exercise-induced asthma is a common but manageable condition |
| Research Link Eur J Clin Nutr. 2003 Dec;57 Suppl 2:S81-7. |
| March 19, 2009 Large daily doses of vitamin C do not appear to prevent colds, but taking vitamin C supplements during a cold may slightly reduce the duration of cold symptoms. |
| Consumer Link Take steps against colds |
| Research Link Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2007 Jul 18;(3):CD000980. |
| March 18, 2009 Older people usually need less calories as they age, but protein needs don't decrease. In fact, studies indicate that the optimal protein intake is greater for older people. |
| Consumer Link Muscle is also important as a major protein reserve |
| Research Link Clin Nutr. 2008 Oct;27(5):675-84. |
| March 17, 2009 Contrary to popular belief, dietary cholesterol has little effect on blood cholesterol. Including one or two whole eggs in the diet daily can provide many beneficial nutrients, including eye-protecting phytochemicals, without adding too much cholesterol. |
| Consumer Link Cracks found in latest egg study |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 2004 Dec;23(6 Suppl):596S-600S. |
| March 16, 2009 Everyone knows that consuming enough high calcium foods is good for bones, but did you know that it also lowers the risk of developing kidney stones? |
| Consumer Link Study finds diet can affect kidney stones |
| Research Link Arch Intern Med. 2004 Apr 26;164(8):885-91. |
| March 15, 2009 Feeling anxious or depressed lately? Research indicates that exercise can be an effective antidote for these mental/emotional problems. Make your muscles happy and the brain will follow. |
| Consumer Link Exercise for physical, mental fitness |
| Research Link Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2006 Jan;38(1):173-8. |
| March 14, 2009 Are you a picky eater? It may be because you are a “supertaster” and more sensitive to the taste of bitter substances in foods. Just remember, you still need to meet your nutrient needs from a wide variety of foods or from dietary supplements. |
| Consumer Link Genetics determines how we taste |
| Research Link Forum Nutr. 2007;60:176-82. |
| March 13, 2009 During pregnancy, daily caffeine intake exceeding 300 milligrams may increase the risk of miscarriage and result in reduced infant birth weight. A strong 8-ounce cup of coffee can contain as much as 180 milligrams of caffeine. |
| Consumer Link In moderation, caffeine found to aid health |
| Research Link Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2009 Feb 24. [Epub ahead of print] |
| March 12, 2009 Vertigo and dizziness are most often related to inner ear problems or the side effects of drugs. Another possible cause is iron deficiency (even without anemia). If other causes of dizziness are not established, iron status should be thoroughly evaluated. |
| Consumer Link Lower risk of falling with good nutrition |
| Research Link Scand J Prim Health Care. 2005 Mar;23(1):28-33. |
| March 11, 2009 Breast milk of vegetarian mothers can become deficient in vitamin B-12. Because B-12 is needed for infant brain and nerve development, vegetarian women should be especially careful to meet their B-12 needs with supplements or fortified foods. |
| Consumer Link New moms need B-12 for baby’s milk |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2008 May;66(5):250-5. |
| March 10, 2009 It is more important to focus on eating an all-around healthy diet than on eliminating "unhealthy foods." A healthy diet includes a wide variety of foods that can provide all essential nutrients and other important food components. |
| Consumer Link Eating for disease prevention may not be healthy |
| Research Link Can J Public Health. 2005 Jul-Aug;96 Suppl 3:S15-9, S16-21. |
| March 9, 2009 It is possible to choose a healthy diet that does not include milk products. However, this must be done carefully to provide adequate calcium for long-term bone health. |
| Consumer Link Debunking calcium myths |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 1994 May;59(5 Suppl):1238S-1241S. |
| March 8, 2009 Most colds are caused by one of more than 100 rhinoviruses. The best strategy to stay healthy is to avoid exposure to these viruses. However, since that is not always possible, maintaining a balanced diet will promote overall good health and speed recovery from a cold. |
| Consumer Link Take steps against colds |
| Research Link Ann Nutr Metab. 2007;51(4):301-23. |
| March 7, 2009 The risk of birth defects is greatest between two and eight weeks after conception. Therefore, during early pregnancy, it is wise to eat a varied and balanced diet including plenty of fruits and vegetables. Taking prenatal vitamins before and during pregnancy also can help to promote the best outcome. |
| Consumer Link Safe conception helps prevent birth defects |
| Research Link Nestle Nutr Workshop Ser Pediatr Program. 2008;61:79-89. |
| March 6, 2009 Teas are one way to get the water your body needs. Black and green teas are good natural sources of fluoride that can benefit teeth. In contrast, some herbal teas are acidic and may erode tooth enamel. It can help to swish your mouth with water after eating food or drinking liquids high in acid or sugar. |
| Consumer Link Herbal teas often take a toll on teeth |
| Research Link J Dent. 2003 May;31(4):241-6. |
| March 5, 2009 Don't over-react to popular reports that paint certain foods as all good or all bad. It is easier to meet your essential nutrient needs if your diet consists of a wide variety of foods and food sources. |
| Consumer Link Food is not the enemy |
| Research Link Appetite. 2009 Feb;52(1):253-5. |
| March 4, 2009 Diets composed mostly of whole grains and beans can stunt a child’s growth and also delay sexual maturation. These problems occur due to limitations in the ability of humans to absorb zinc from these foods. |
| Consumer Link Think zinc if 20-year-old looks like 10 |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 1988 Oct;7(5):377-84. |
| March 3, 2009 It is well known that chewing sugarless gum can benefit dental health. Did you know that chewing gum also can boost brain function? This may be due to increased blood flow to the brain stimulated by the chewing motions of the jaws. |
| Consumer Link Gum chewing could offer health benefits |
| Research Link Nutrition Today 43(2), 75-81, 2008. |
| March 2, 2009 Iodine is an essential nutrient for normal function of the thyroid gland. Iodized salt is a good source of iodine, but if iodized salt is stored in a humid climate it can lose most of its iodine within a month or two. Keep iodized salt tightly sealed and dry. |
| Consumer Link We all need the essential mineral iodine |
| Research Link Environ. Sci. Technol., 42 (4), 1315–1323, 2008 |
| March 1, 2009 To help prevent exercise from damaging joints, exercise frequently at low-to-moderate intensity and make sure your diet has all of the essential nutrients including adequate vitamin C for cartilage formation and plenty of fluids for lubrication. |
| Consumer Link Too fast, too furious exercise is ‘pain, no gain' |
| Research Link Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2005;45(3):145-64. |
| February 28, 2009 Before buying special dietary supplements to enhance your health and energy level, take the extra step to make sure that the product is not another form of "snake oil." A web search on the product name along with the terms "scam" or "ripoff" can bring up interesting information. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin O marketers full of hot air |
| Research Link Int J Toxicol. 2003 Sep-Oct;22(5):387-90. |
| February 27, 2009 If you experience GERD, commonly known as heartburn, eat moderate sized meals, stay upright after eating for at least two hours, and eliminate foods that don’t agree with you. Also, inform your doctor of heartburn symptoms if you are taking a new medication. |
| Consumer Link Heartburn linked to many causes |
| Research Link Nutr Clin Pract. 2008 Jun-Jul;23(3):293-8. |
| February 26, 2009 Body size, physical activity, and weather conditions all affect our daily water needs. The Institute of Medicine recommends that adult males consume about 3.7 liters (15 cups) and adult females about 2.7 liters (10 cups) each day in their foods and beverages combined. |
| Consumer Link Water needs vary with diet and lifestyle |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2005 Jun;63(6 Pt 2):S30-9. |
| February 25, 2009 The fear of getting too much iron in their diet seems to be causing many seniors to get too little iron. The health consequences of both extremes are serious. When making diet changes for health, remember iron is an essential nutrient. |
| Consumer Link Seniors still need adequate iron for good health |
| Research Link Am Fam Physician. 2000 Oct 1;62(7):1565-72. |
| February 24, 2009 There are many ways to stay physically active and increase the calories you burn each day. Even many small movements can add up to plenty of calories. If you have an opportunity to move, take it. |
| Consumer Link Fit in fidgeting if you can't get exercise time |
| Research Link Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes. 2008 Oct;15(5):409-15. |
| February 23, 2009 For lactose intolerant people, it’s the amount of milk that matters. Most lactose intolerant individuals can consume up to 8 ounces of milk or yogurt with a meal and not experience symptoms. Hard cheeses have little or no lactose. |
| Consumer Link Even lactose intolerant can drink milk |
| Research Link Pediatrics. 2007 Sep;120(3):e669-77. |
| February 22, 2009 Weight control is often an issue of portion control. The larger the food portion, the more we tend to eat. During the past few decades, the average American body weight has increased right along with package and serving sizes. |
| Consumer Link Big servings lead unwary to overeat |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2005 Jul;82(1 Suppl):236S-241S. |
| February 21, 2009 Consuming adequate amounts of folic acid is important to overall health. However, taking high dose folic acid supplements can interfere with the timely diagnosis of vitamin B-12 deficiency that is common in older people and strict vegetarians. |
| Consumer Link Taking folate supplements not for all |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2004 Jun;62(6 Pt 2):S3-12. |
| February 20, 2009 A thoughtless comment about a teenager’s body weight or fatness can impact their sense of self-worth. This can be a key factor that triggers an eating disorder such as anorexia (starving) or bulimia (binge eating and purging). |
| Consumer Link Criticism may trigger eating disorders |
| Research Link Health Promot Int. 2008 Jun;23(2):173-89. |
| February 19, 2009 Have you ever wondered why some people really like flavors that you don’t like? It may be in your genes. Some people are “supertasters” of specific flavors in foods, especially bitter flavors. |
| Consumer Link Genetics determines how we taste |
| Research Link Chem Senses. 2000 Aug;25(4):447-60. |
| February 18, 2009 If exercise could be put into a pill, it would be the most frequently prescribed medication in the world. Increasing physical activity can improve both physical and mental fitness. |
| Consumer Link Exercise for physical, mental fitness |
| Research Link Br J Sports Med. 2009 Feb;43(2):120-3. |
| February 17, 2009 Frequent “heartburn” is medically known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease or GERD for short. Because frequent use of common GERD medications may lead to increased bone loss over time, it is important to consume a diet rich in calcium. |
| Consumer Link GERD drugs are connected to osteoporosis |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2008 Feb;66(2):103-8. |
| February 16, 2009 Food is the fuel that keeps the body going. To get a good start at meeting your daily nutrient requirements, it is recommended that a fourth of the day’s calories be eaten at breakfast. Skipping breakfast is like starting a long trip on a near empty gas tank. |
| Consumer Link Breakfast for a good start to day |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2005 May;105(5):743-60. |
| February 15, 2009 Peanut products are just the latest food victims of bacterial contamination. To stay "food safe" on an ongoing basis, 1) wash your hands well before handling foods and 2) keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot and out of the "danger zone." |
| Consumer Link How to keep bacteria off the menu |
| Research Link Annu Rev Nutr. 2003;23:315-44. |
| February 14, 2009 No food is more tightly linked to romance than chocolate. This may be due to a stimulatory effect of the compound theobromine. Although not a nutrient, theobromine can dilate blood vessels and stimulate the heart, giving that "feeling a little flushed" sensation. |
| Consumer Link The benefits of chocolate |
| Research Link Curr Hypertens Rep. 2006 Jun;8(3):205-11. |
| February 13, 2009 Research indicates that the amount of iodine in foods has declined over the past two decades. This nutrient is essential for normal function of the thyroid gland. |
| Consumer Link Researchers fear deficiency of iodine intake |
| Research Link Environ. Sci. Technol., 42 (4), 1315–1323, 2008 |
| February 12, 2009 Especially during hot weather, it is easy to become dehydrated before you realize it. Plan ahead on fluid intake and you will reduce your risk of developing urinary tract infections, kidney stones, bladder and colon cancer, and possibly even blood clots. |
| Consumer Link Make sure you consume enough water |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 2007 Oct;26(5 Suppl):535S-541S |
| February 11, 2009 Research shows that moderate to high protein intake has positive effects on bone health. Along with calcium, vitamins D and K, it is important to consume reasonable amounts of high protein foods. |
| Consumer Link Healthy bones need protein |
| Research Link Annu Rev Nutr. 2008;28:131-55 |
| February 10, 2009 Some types of tofu provide a significant amount of easily absorbed calcium, and some types do not. If the food label indicates "30 percent," then a serving provides about 300 mg of calcium. |
| Consumer Link Calcium plays important role in bone health |
| Research Link USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference |
| February 9, 2009 Since only animal foods contain significant amounts of vitamin B-12, people consuming vegan and macrobiotic diets are at risk for B-12 deficiency. Studies on these groups have reported poor B-12 status in as many as 90 percent of the study participants. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin B-12 deficiency impairs brain |
| Research Link Ann Nutr Metab. 2000;44(5-6):229-34 |
| February 8, 2009 Iodine is a critical nutrient for normal nerve development in infants. Since infants need a fresh supply of iodine each day in mother's milk, mom’s dietary supplement needs to contain iodine. |
| Consumer Link Researchers fear deficiency of iodine intake |
| Research Link Environ. Sci. Technol., 42 (4), 1315–1323, 2008 |
| February 7, 2009 Older people with dentures or dental problems may have difficulty chewing meats. Therefore to meet protein needs, consume high protein foods like eggs, cottage cheese, tender fish, ground meat, and protein drinks. |
| Consumer Link Nutritional requirements more complex for seniors |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2008 Jan;87(1):150-5 |
| February 6, 2009 Health problems caused by iron deficiency may go undiagnosed for a long time when more sensitive indicators of iron status are not measured. Ask your doctor for a full panel of iron blood tests if you think you are running low on iron. |
| Consumer Link Iron deficiency sometimes goes unseen |
| Research Link Am J Nephrol. 2007;27(6):565-71 |
| February 5, 2009 Several studies found that vitamin C supplements do not prevent the common cold. Vitamin C supplementation, however, has been shown to cut the risk of catching a cold for those exposed to an extreme physical stress like running a marathon. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin C can halve cold risk during strain |
| Research Link Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2007 Jul 18;(3):CD000980 |
| February 4, 2009 Power athletes take creatine supplements to enhance strength. Creatine also may help to boost the brain. A study of young adult vegetarians found significantly improved short-term memory after taking creatine for six weeks. |
| Consumer Link Creatine has wide range of benefits |
| Research Link Proc Biol Sci. 2003 Oct 22;270(1529):2147-50 |
| February 3, 2009 Strong bones require both adequate dietary calcium and protein. Milk products and calcium fortified soymilk are good sources of both nutrients. |
| Consumer Link Healthy bones need protein |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 2005 Dec;24(6 Suppl):526S-36S. |
| February 2, 2009 Thyroid function is essential for normal metabolism. To help prevent impaired thyroid function in later life, it is especially important to include iodine in the diet. The most consistent iodine sources are seafood and seaweeds. Sea salt, however, is actually very low in iodine. |
| Consumer Link We all need the essential mineral iodine |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2007 Dec;65(12 Pt 1):535-43. |
| February 1, 2009 Getting plenty of good sleep may be the first step to eating and exercising better. This is especially important before starting a new exercise program. |
| Consumer Link More sleep could help control weight |
| Research Link Obesity. 2008 Mar;16(3):643-53. |
| January 31, 2009 Star fruit (also known as carambola) is a good source of vitamin C. If, however, you have impaired kidney function, you need to find other sources of vitamin C. Medical research shows that star fruit can cause kidney failure in those with impaired kidney function. |
| Consumer Link Kidney patients should avoid star fruit |
| Research Link Food Chem Toxicol. 2008 May;46(5):1744-52. |
| January 30, 2009 Getting too little protein can cause muscles and the immune system to weaken. Be sure to include high protein foods along with those fruits and vegetables. |
| Consumer Link Muscle is also important as a major protein reserve |
| Research Link J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 2001 Jun;56(6):M373-80 |
| January 29, 2009 Dental problems may cause problems with chewing raw and al dente cooked vegetables. Eating well-cooked vegetables is better than eating none at all. |
| Consumer Link Nutritional requirements more complex for seniors |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 2003 Jan;103(1):61-6 |
| January 28, 2009 Some individuals cannot absorb Vitamin B12. These individuals will require monthly injections of vitamin B12 to prevent short-term memory loss mimicking Alzheimer disease. |
| Consumer Link Nutritional requirements more complex for seniors |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2005 May;81(5):1155-62. |
| January 27, 2009 With our growing knowledge of how Vitamin D plays many roles in health, many researchers worldwide are recommending over 1000 IU/day - about double the amount in current recommendations. |
| Consumer Link Vitamin D deficiency makes a comeback |
| Research Link Am J Clin Nutr. 2007 Jan;85(1):6-18. |
| January 26, 2009 To reduce the bone loss generally seen during weight loss, consume a diet high in protein, milk products, and calcium. |
| Consumer Link Bone mass at risk during weight loss |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2008 Jun;138(6):1096-100 |
| January 25, 2009 A half-cup of cooked spinach and three ounces of cooked lean beef contain similar amounts of iron, but because iron from spinach is poorly absorbed, it really takes five cups of the spinach to equal three ounces of beef when it comes to meeting iron needs. |
| Consumer Link Lean red meat best source of iron in food |
| Research Link Eur J Clin Nutr. 2008 Mar;62(3):336-41. Epub 2007 Apr 18. |
| January 24, 2009 To lose fat and decrease muscle loss, increase your protein intake during dieting. |
| Consumer Link Protein is a crucial part of a sound diet |
| Research Link J Am Coll Nutr. 2004 Dec;23(6 Suppl):631S-636S |
| January 23, 2009 Healthy eating is important, but taking healthy eating to an unhealthy extreme can damage a person's health. This condition is called orthorexia nervosa. |
| Consumer Link Varied menu is the best path to good health |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 1997 Mar;97(3):266-71 |
| January 22, 2009 If you have Restless Legs Syndrome, you may be iron deficient. Have your physician check the ferritin in your blood. A number less than 50 indicates more iron is needed to reverse this nutrition deficiency. |
| Consumer Link Iron deficiency might play role in jittery legs |
| Research Link Mov Disord. 2008 Jun 15;23(8):1184-7 |
| January 21, 2009 Health messages that encourage you to eat more whole grains, fruits and vegetables, assume you are already eating adequate protein and calcium sources to meet your nutrient requirements. |
| Consumer Link It can be possible to have too much of a good thing |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 1997 Mar;97(3):266-71. |
| January 20, 2009 Chewing sugarless gum benefits dental health. There also is evidence that chewing gum enhances brain function, possibly by increasing blood flow to the brain. |
| Consumer Link Chewing gum could offer health benefits |
| Research Link Br J Psychol. 2008 May;99(Pt 2):293-306. Epub 2007 Jul 24. |
| January 19, 2009 Lactose intolerant? Consider adding the over-the-counter tablet-lactase. When taken with the first bite or sip of milk products, this enzyme product breaks down the sugars you don't digest so well. |
| Consumer Link Even lactose intolerant can drink milk |
| Research Link Nutr Rev. 2003 Jun;61(6 Pt 1):221-3 |
| January 18, 2009 Grapefruit is a great vitamin C source. Check with your pharmacist to make sure the grapefruit doesn't conflict with you heart medications. |
| Consumer Link It can be possible to have too much of a good thing |
| Research Link Ann Nutr Metab. 2008;52 Suppl 1:29-32 |
| January 17, 2009 If your short-term memory is getting shorter, ask your physician to check your vitamin B12 status. You may need to get monthly B12 injections to maintain a sharp wit. |
| Consumer Link Dietary B-12 may not be enough |
| Research Link J Nutr Health Aging. 2006 Sep-Oct;10(5):377-85 |
| January 16, 2009 Picky eaters risk missing important nutrients. Variety is not only the spice of life but also the substance of good nutrition. Eat a wide variety of foods for best health |
| Consumer Link Varied menu is the best path to good health |
| Research Link J Am Diet Assoc. 1997 Mar;97(3):266-71. |
| January 15, 2009 Keeping your teeth healthy is essential for long term health. Always rinse your mouth with water after eating high sugar or high acid foods (like fruits, sodas, and sports drinks). |
| Consumer Link Toothy facts about what you eat |
| Research Link American Dental Association |
| January 14, 2009 Headaches have many causes: stress, lack of sleep, and poor posture for an extended time. But remember headaches also can be caused by skipping meals. |
| Consumer Link Diet may play part in your headaches |
| Research Link National Headache Foundation |
| January 13, 2009 Vitamin B-12 deficiency can cause short-term memory problems similar to early Alzheimer's disease. Other possible symptoms are depression, numbness in the feet or hands, vision problems, or unexplainable random pains. |
| Consumer Link Remember B-12 for healthy aging |
| Research Link Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) deficiency in elderly patients |
| January 12, 2009 The three most important words in nutrition are variety, balance, and moderation. Making extreme changes in your diet may seem to have short-term benefits but can lead to long-term problems. |
| Consumer Link Variety, balance and moderation still outweigh any fad |
| Research Link J Nutr. 2003 Nov;133(11):3476-84 |