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A new study on the impact of diet sodas on gut microbes contributes more insights -- and probably more confusion – to the debate over whether diet drinks are good or bad for health. Some research suggests that diet drinks do help people cut calories and ward off weight gain. But the new study says diet sodas alter intestinal microbiota in such a way that the risk of metabolic disease, including type 2 diabetes, increases. Skeptics warn that one study among seven people does not provide enough scientific evidence. So, as the debate rages on, everyone agrees that more, and larger, studies are needed to settle the issue.
"Diet Soda May Alter Our Gut Microbes And Raise The Risk Of Diabetes", National Public Radio, November 07, 2014
Euromonitor summarizes the pros and cons of eating sugar in a new study that tries to put the debate in context as the amount of scientific research linking sugar to obesity increases. Among the cons that contribute to sugar’s “demonization”: refined sugar is addictive; causes tooth decay; has no nutritional value; and has been linked to obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes and heart disease. On the other hand, the sugar industry says that sugar alone cannot be blamed for obesity because saturated fats, carbohydrates and sedentary lifestyles also play a role. And sugar makes processed foods more palatable by providing texture and acting as a preservative.
"The Backlash Against Sugar: The Facts", Report, Euromonitor International, November 07, 2014
Nutrition writer Linda Milo Ohr has scoured recent scientific research to compile a list of foods and nutrients that ward off hunger pains and keep you feeling full longer. At the top of the list is protein, especially eggs for breakfast, but also protein snacks in the late afternoon to keep unhealthy nighttime snacking under control. Other appetite-curbing foods include: whole grains and fiber; almonds; pulses like dried peas, edible beans, lentils, and chickpeas; saffron; and Korean pine nut oil.
"Combating Hunger Pains. ", Food Technology, November 04, 2014
A U.S. study in mice finds strong evidence that a diet rich in walnuts can help prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. Mice fed walnuts showed significant improvement in learning skills, memory, and motor development, as well as a reduction in anxiety. The key to the health benefits of walnuts is their high antioxidant content, which reduces oxidative stress and inflammation in brain cells. The research group examined the effects of dietary supplementation on mice with 6 percent or 9 percent walnuts, which are equivalent to 1 ounce and 1.5 ounces per day, respectively, of walnuts in humans.
"Dietary Supplementation of Walnuts Improves Memory Deficits and Learning Skills in Transgenic Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease. ", Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, November 04, 2014
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Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, October 30, 2014
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