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Australian scientists who systematically reviewed earlier studies show a strong link between nutritional deficiency and mental health that should not be ignored. In fact, psychiatry can only go only so far in treating psychological problems without taking into account diet quality. There is “emerging and compelling evidence”, they argue, that nutrition is as important in diagnosing and treating mental disorders as it is in treating heart or digestive problems. The researchers conclude that “nutrient-based prescription” could help with the management of mental disorders “at the individual and population level”, and even among children and adolescents.
"Nutritional medicine as mainstream in psychiatry. ", The Lancet Psychiatry, February 11, 2015
The current “wisdom” about beneficial versus harmful foods may not be so "wise" after all. There is a lot of misinformation and misunderstanding about carbohydrates, the glycemic index (GI), etc. The foodie trend these days is to avoid white bread, pasta, refined sugar and other high GI foods to feel better and live healthier. But the fact is that carbs can be healthful or harmful, “depending on which, and how many, you eat”. The real problem is overconsumption, experts note. There’s no rational reason to avoid bread, pasta and refined sugar – regardless of the GI rating – as long as they are consumed in moderation. Another key fact: low-GI foods like whole grain bread or legumes contain more nutrients. That may be the main reason – not the low GI rating – scientific studies have found that disease risk is lower when you eat them.
"Is it really worth not eating bread, pasta and other carbs?", The Washington Post, February 09, 2015
Aging and eating less protein tend to slow the body’s muscle-building efficiency. Eating more protein can reverse that process, leading to a healthier weight, better fitness and an improved quality of life. A new U.S. study involving 20 healthy adults between 52-75 years of age varied the distribution and amounts of protein meals over a four-day test period. The researchers found that the amount of protein consumed – but not the distribution pattern -- had a significant impact on muscle protein synthesis. The researchers recommend that older adults ingest about 93 g of protein a day (for a 170-pound person) to encourage maximum protein synthesis. This represents a significantly higher amount of protein than the current recommended dietary allowance (RDA).
"Quantity of dietary protein intake, but not pattern of intake, affects net protein balance primarily through differences in protein synthesis in older adults. ", AJP: Endocrinology and Metabolism, February 04, 2015
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