Fast-Food Chains Add Healthier Menu Items, But Average Calorie Counts Change Little November 13, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A study by U.S. researchers finds that though healthy items – oatmeal with fruit, salads with grilled chicken, etc. – have been added to major fast-food restaurant menus, the average calorie counts changed very little between 1997 and 2010. Menu offerings and nutrient composition information were analyzed using archival versions of a food and nutrient database. Menus from McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's, Taco Bell, KFC, Arby's, Jack in the Box and Dairy Queen were included in the database. Researchers found a 53 percent increase in the total number of offerings over 14 years across the restaurants. Fast-growing additions to the menus included the number of entree salads, which increased from 11 to 51, and sweetened teas, which went from zero to 35. However, the authors found no large changes in the median calorie content of entrees and drinks. Katherine W. Bauer et al., "Energy Content of U.S. Fast-Food Restaurant Offerings", American Journal of Preventive Medicine, November 13, 2012, © American Journal of Preventive Medicine

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EFSA Rejects Weight Loss Claims For Whey Protein Prolibra November 9, 2012: 12:00 AM EST The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has rejected claims by Glanbia Nutritionals Inc. that consumption of Prolibra, its hydrolyzed whey protein isolate containing peptides and milk minerals, “helps to reduce body fat while preserving lean muscle.” The EFSA said the company did not describe the whey peptide's full manufacturing process and provided no information on the enzyme used for the specific conditions applied. The authority said that Prolibra was therefore “not sufficiently characterized in relation to the claimed effect”. "EFSA rejects Glanbia fat loss claim", Engredea News & Analysis (New Hope 360), November 09, 2012, © Penton Media/Engredea

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Carcinogenic Compound Forms When Foods Are Fried, Roasted Or Baked November 8, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A report by a Hong Kong newspaper warns of a potentially carcinogenic compound found in some fried and baked foods sold in the former British colony. Scientists have shown  that high levels of the fatty acid ester form of 3-MCPD – produced when foods are cooked at high temperatures – affect the kidneys, central nervous system and male reproductive systems of lab rats. Hong Kong’s Centre for Food Safety said that while there is a potential danger for humans, the average daily intake of the chemical in people is unlikely to cause health problems. High levels of 3-MCPD have been found in biscuits, snacks and Chinese pastry. The ester is formed when foods containing fat and salt are processed at high temperatures in frying, deep frying, roasting and baking. Emily Tsang , "Cancer link to foods cooked at high heat", South China Morning Post , November 08, 2012, © South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd

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Study Finds No Link Between Calcium Intake And Increased Risk Of Calcified Plaque In Arteries November 7, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A study by U.S. researchers has found that levels of calcium intake from diet or from supplements have no real effect on the severity of calcified plaque clogging arteries in the heart, a predictor of heart attack. Scientists  examined 1,300  men and women with an average age of 60 for the study. They were asked about their diet and calcium supplement use, and underwent CT scans of their coronary arteries four years later. They found no increased risk of calcified arteries with higher amounts of calcium intake from food or supplements among the study participants. Elizabeth J Samelson et al., "Calcium intake is not associated with increased coronary artery calcification", American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, November 07, 2012, © American Society for Nutrition

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High Carbohydrate Diet Increases Risk Of Colon Cancer Recurrence November 7, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Diet plays a significant role in whether colon cancer survivors suffer a recurrence of the disease, a U.S. study has found. Researchers gathered dietary data from 1,011 patients with advanced color cancer, finding that those who ate a typical "Western" diet – marked by high intakes of meat, fat, refined grains, and sugar desserts – were three times more likely to have a cancer recurrence than those whose diets were least Western. In particular, eating foods with a high glycemic index increased levels of insulin and in turn increased the risk of cancer recurrence. Jeffrey A. Meyerhardt et al., "Dietary Glycemic Load and Cancer Recurrence and Survival in Patients with Stage III Colon Cancer", Journal of the National Cancer Institute, November 07, 2012, © Meyerhardt et al.

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Barley’s Many Benefits Spark Resurgence As A Health Food November 6, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Barley, once a food staple of the ancient world, over the centuries has been largely replaced by wheat. And though it is still used in the beer brewing process, barley is nowadays mainly used as animal feed. But barley is enjoying a resurgence as a health food, at least in Canada, according to Liane Faulder. Health Canada, for example, recently approved the claim that barley lowers cholesterol; the fiber in barley helps maintain insulin levels, a benefit for diabetics; and barley supports regularity and satiety, which benefits weight watchers. Barley flour is gaining popularity because of the “slightly nutty” flavor it adds to quick breads and because it keeps baked goods moist longer. On the horizon: new barley-based products, such as barley pastas and chips. Liane Faulder, "Taste Alberta: Barley enjoying beefed-up profile", Edmonton Journal , November 06, 2012, © The Edmonton Journal

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AHA Warns Consumers About Salt Content Of Bread And Other Common Foods November 6, 2012: 12:00 AM EST The American Heart Association’s compilation of the six saltiest foods in the American diet includes some fairly obvious ones: cold cuts and cured meats, soups and pizza. But also on the list are bread and rolls. Salt content of bread can be deceiving, because bread doesn’t really taste salty. But a slice of bread can contain 230 mg of sodium. Eating two sandwiches a day would mean consuming nearly 1,000 mg of salt –  nearly two thirds of the recommended daily intake of 1,500 mg – just from the bread. Add in the sodium content of the cold cuts in the sandwich and you’re easily in the 3,400 mg range, the average – and very unhealthy – sodium intake of Americans today. "How much salt are you eating? Beware the sodium in these “Salty Six” foods", American Heart Association, November 06, 2012, © American Heart Association, Inc.

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Losing Weight On Low-Carb Or Low-Fat Diet Reduces Risk Of Heart Attack, Stroke November 5, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Overweight or obese people who lose weight sticking to either a low-fat or low-carb diet significantly reduce their risk of heart attack and stroke, according to a U.S. study. Fat cells secrete molecules into the bloodstream that increase inflammation throughout the body. Being overweight or obese greatly increases the risk of inflammation and, in turn, blood clots. For the study, 60 overweight or obese people were randomly assigned to go on a low-fat or a low-carb diet for six months. The researchers found that in both groups there was a significant drop in the levels of all three measures of inflammation. Those on the low-carb diet lost more weight, on average, than those on the low-fat diet and also had a greater drop in BMI and belly fat. Kerry Stewart et al., "Losing Weight from Either a Low-Carb or Low-Fat Diet Lowers Body Inflammation", News release, presentation at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions, November 05, 2012, © Stewart et al.

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Children Consume More Nutrient-Poor Calories When They Eat At Fast-Food Restaurants November 5, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Kids and adolescents who eat at fast-food and full-service restaurants tend to consume higher amounts of sugar, total fat, saturated fat and sodium than when they eat at home or eat food brought from home, a U.S. study has found. Researchers compared calorie intake, diet quality, and consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, particularly soda, on days when children and adolescents ate out and days when they ate at home. The data were from a national health survey that included 4,717 children ages 2 to 11. and 4,699 adolescents ages 12 to 19. When adolescents ate fast food, they consumed an additional 309 calories; young children took in an additional 126 calories. Powell LM et al., "Fast-Food and Full-Service Restaurant Consumption Among Children and Adolescents: Effect on Energy, Beverage, and Nutrient Intake", Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, November 05, 2012, © American Medical Association

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Mice Fed Genetically Altered Tomatoes Have Less Inflammation, Atherosclerosis November 5, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Researchers who fed mice genetically engineered tomatoes that produce a small peptide that mimics the action of the chief protein in HDL (“good” cholesterol) found that the animals had less inflammation and arterial plaque build up. The mice, bred to lack the ability to eliminate “bad” cholesterol from their blood, were subject to inflammation and atherosclerosis. The U.S. researchers said it was the first example of “a drug with these properties that has been produced in an edible plant and is biologically active when fed without any isolation or purification of the drug.” Alan M. Fogelman, M.D. et al., "Genetically Engineered Tomatoes Decrease Plaque Build-Up in Mice", News release, presentation at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2012, November 05, 2012, © Fogelman et al.

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Multivitamin Use By Older Men Does Not Affect Cardiovascular Health November 5, 2012: 12:00 AM EST An older man’s likelihood of experiencing a heart attack, stroke, or death from cardiovascular disease is not reduced by taking a daily multivitamin, a U.S. study has found. The researchers noted that there remains some doubt about the long-term benefits of daily multivitamin use, especially as a way to prevent cardiovascular disease. For the study, researchers analyzed data regarding multivitamin use and major cardiovascular events from a large trial – 14,641 physicians were enrolled – designed to look at multivitamin impact on cancer. They found no significant effect on rates of congestive heart failure, angina, and coronary revascularization, or on total heart attacks, stroke, or other cardiovascular events. Howard D. Sesso et al. , "Multivitamins in the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease in Men", JAMA, November 05, 2012, © American Medical Association

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Functional Wheat-Rye Bread Could Help Treat Diabetes November 2, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Scientists from Slovakia who developed a functional wheat-rye bread said a small clinical trial showed that the formula reduces glucose levels after it is eaten, and could be used in diabetes and obesity treatment programs. The bread is enriched with cereal dietary fiber (10 percent wheat germ), beta-glucan hydrogel (12.5 percent) and sourdough starter (lactobacilli) culture. The higher acidity levels caused by the lactobacilli strains may reduce acute glycemic and insulinemic responses. The sourdough, beta-glucan and extruded wheat bran changed biologically active compounds, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and phenolic acids. Higher levels of polyphenols and flavonoids led to increased antioxidant activity. Kacey Culliney , "Fortified wheat-rye bread could aid diabetes and obesity prevention, study", Bakery and Snacks, November 02, 2012, © William Reed Business media SAS

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To Reduce Exposure To Arsenic In Rice Products, Parents Should Feed Babies Wheat, Oatmeal Cereals November 1, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Consumers Union, reporting in its magazine Consumer Reports, says it found varying levels of the poison arsenic in more than 60 rices and rice products, including baby foods. Some infant rice cereals contained five times the levels of inorganic arsenic found in alternatives such as oatmeal. One of CU’s key recommendations to parents about reducing the risk of arsenic poisoning: babies should eat no more than one serving of infant rice cereal a day on average, and their diets should include cereals made from wheat, oatmeal or corn grits, “which contain significantly lower levels of arsenic.” "Arsenic in your food", Consumer Reports, November 01, 2012, © Consumers Union of U.S., Inc.

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High Levels Of Vitamin D In The Blood Associated With Reduced Risk Of Bladder Cancer October 31, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Spanish researchers have found a significant link between levels of vitamin D in the blood and the risk of bladder cancer. Study authors analyzed blood samples from 2,000 hospital patients, some of whom had bladder cancer and some of whom did not. They found that those who had the highest levels of 25(OH)D3 in the blood had the least risk of bladder cancer. The results suggest that increasing  the dietary or supplementary intake of vitamin D, or getting more sun exposure, might benefit patients in terms of prevention and treatment. A. F. Amaral et al., "Plasma 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3 and Bladder Cancer Risk According to Tumor Stage and FGFR3 Status", Journal of the National Cancer Institute, October 31, 2012, © Amaral et al.

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Beverage Thickness Increases Expectations Of Satiety – Study October 31, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Researchers in the U.K. who tested the effect of different beverage combinations on expectations of satiety found that people assumed thicker drinks would make them feel fuller longer. Expectations of satiety – the thin, thick, creamy and high- and low-calorie drinks were rated against hypothetical pasta and sauce dishes of different sizes – were boosted by thick drinks even when other drink combinations had the same number of calories. Creamy flavors and higher calorie content did not increase the expected impact on hunger. The researchers said figuring out how to make drinks feel more filling without increasing their caloric content could help mitigate the impact on weight. Keri McCrickerd et al., "Subtle changes in the flavour and texture of a drink enhance expectations of satiety", Flavour, October 31, 2012, © McCrickerd et al.

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Omega-3s From Oily Fish – But Not From Supplements – Shown To Prevent Stroke October 31, 2012: 12:00 AM EST British and Dutch researchers who analyzed data from 38 studies involving 800,000 individuals have found that eating just two servings of oily fish a week significantly reduces the chances of suffering a stroke. The same effect, however, was not found from taking fish oil supplements. Participants who ate two to four servings of fish like salmon, sardines, herring, etc., a week had a moderate but significant six percent lower risk of cerebrovascular disease compared with those eating one or fewer servings of fish a week. Participants who ate five or more servings a week had a 12 percent lower risk. The researchers suggested several reasons for the results, including the possibility that eating fish precludes consumption of harmful foods like red meat. Rajiv Chowdhury et al., "Association between fish consumption, long chain omega 3 fatty acids, and risk of cerebrovascular disease", BMJ, October 31, 2012, © BMJ Publishing Group Ltd

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Meals High In Saturated Fats Do Immediate Damage To Blood Vessels October 30, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A Canadian clinical trial that measured the effects of different types of meals on the inner lining of blood vessels in 28 nonsmoking men found that a meal loaded with saturated fats damages arteries. In contrast, a Mediterranean-style meal rich in good (mono- and polyunsaturated) fats caused no damage at all to blood vessels, and may even have had a beneficial effect. For the study, the men ate a meal composed of salmon, almonds, and vegetables cooked in olive oil. Arteries of the study participants dilated normally. The second meal included a sausage sandwich, an egg, cheese, and three hash browns. Arteries dilated 24 percent less than in the fasting state. J. Cantin et al., "Does the Adherence to a Mediterranean Diet Influence Baseline and Postprandial Endothelial Function?", Canadian Journal of Cardiology, October 30, 2012, © Canadian Cardiovascular Society

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Young Adults Can Improve Working Memory With Omega-3 Supplements October 25, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Numerous studies have linked omega-3 fatty acids to a variety of health benefits. But a new U.S. clinical study found that 11 healthy young adults (ages 18 to 25) boosted their memory by increasing omega-3 intake. Participants in the study, which was not placebo-controlled, took an omega-3 fish oil supplement (FDA-approved Lovaza) daily for six months after various tests were performed, including brain imaging scans. At six months, participants underwent blood tests and completed working memory tests, including the “n-back test”. The working memory of the participants was shown to be greatly improved over pre-study results. The researchers were disappointed, however, that brain imaging  tests did not reveal the mechanism of enhanced memory. Rajesh Narendran et al., "Improved Working Memory but No Effect on Striatal Vesicular Monoamine Transporter Type 2 after Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Supplementation", PLoS ONE, October 25, 2012, © Narendran et al.

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Some Herbal/Dietary Supplements Are Dangerous When Taken With Prescription Medications October 24, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A comprehensive research review by Chinese and U.S. scientists has found that certain herbal and dietary supplements can be harmful when taken with prescription medications. The researchers analyzed 54 review articles and 31 original studies, finding particularly serious adverse effects when prescription drugs were taken with St. John’s Wort, magnesium, calcium, iron or ginkgo biloba. The greatest number of supplement interaction problems were with Warfarin, insulin, aspirin, digoxin and ticlopidine. Most of the interaction problems were caused by the supplements altering the way a drug is absorbed, distributed, metabolized and eliminated by the body. H.-H. Tsai et al., "Evaluation of documented drug interactions and contraindications associated with herbs and dietary supplements: a systematic literature review", International Journal of Clinical Practice, October 24, 2012, © John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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Legume Diet Reduces Risk Of Heart Disease Among Diabetics October 22, 2012: 12:00 AM EST People with type 2 diabetes can reduce their risk of coronary heart disease by eating more legumes as part of a low-glycemic index (GI) diet, a three-month clinical study by Canadian researchers has found. The study tested the effects of eating more legumes – beans, chickpeas or lentils – on 121 type 2 diabetes patients. Patients were assigned randomly to eat either a low-GI legume diet (one cup a day) or a diet with increased soluble fiber in the form of whole wheat products. The low-GI legume diet had a positive impact on glycemic control, blood lipid levels and blood pressure, all of which are risk factors for heart disease. Jenkins DA et al., "Effect of Legumes as Part of a Low Glycemic Index Diet on Glycemic Control and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus", Archives of Internal Medicine, October 22, 2012, © American Medical Association

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Organic Produce Not Healthier Than Conventional – Until You Take Into Account Pesticide Levels October 22, 2012: 12:00 AM EST The American Academy of Pediatrics has conducted an in-depth analysis of scientific evidence regarding the nutritional benefit of organic fruits and vegetables, finding that they have the same vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, etc., as conventionally grown produce – but without the pesticide residues. The AAP said that low pesticide levels could be a significant factor for young children. The researchers said no one really knows whether differences in pesticide levels have an adverse health impact over a lifetime, but "we do know that children – especially young children whose brains are developing – are uniquely vulnerable to chemical exposures." Joel Forman & Janet Silverstein, "Organic Foods: Health and Environmental Advantages and Disadvantages", Pediatrics, October 22, 2012, © American Academy of Pediatrics

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Higher Calcium Intake Lowers Risk Of Thyroid Problems In Older Women October 18, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Women whose diet is low in calcium run the risk of developing primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT), a condition in which an overactive thyroid secretes too much parathyroid hormone, leading to weak bones, fractures and kidney stones, a study finds. U.S. researchers collected data beginning in 1986 on 58,354 women aged 39 to 66 years. They measured calcium intake from dietary sources and supplements every four years. Women with the highest intake of dietary calcium had a 44 percent lower risk of developing PHPT than those with the lowest intake. Even women who took a modest 500 mg/day of calcium supplements had a 59 percent lower risk than those who took no supplement. Paik JM et al., "Calcium intake and risk of primary hyperparathyroidism in women: prospective cohort study", BMJ, October 18, 2012, © Paik JM et al.

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Antioxidant-Rich Diet Of Fruits, Vegetables Significantly Reduces Heart Attack Risk In Women October 17, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Researchers in Sweden who tracked the dietary patterns of 32,561 women over ten years in a population-based cohort study found that total dietary antioxidant intake from fruits, vegetables, coffee, chocolate and whole grains, was important in the prevention of heart attack (myocardial infarction). A diet of fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants reduced the risk of heart attack in women aged 49 to 83 by as much as 29 percent. The researchers acknowledged that the study was conducted among women and therefore could not be generalized to men. Susanne Rautiainen et al., "Total Antioxidant Capacity from Diet and Risk of Myocardial Infarction: A Prospective Cohort of Women", American Journal of Medicine, October 17, 2012, © Elsevier Inc

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Study Finds That Plant-Based Flavonoids Reduce Risk Of Aggressive Prostate Cancer October 17, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Researchers who analyzed data from questionnaires completed by nearly 2,000 African-American and European men newly diagnosed with prostate cancer found a link between consumption of plant-based flavonoids prior to diagnosis and a reduced risk of aggressive prostate cancer. What made the difference was consuming a variety of plant-based foods and beverages, such as fruits, vegetables, herbs and tea. The researchers found that no individual subclass of flavonoids worked better than the others. So “it is important to consume a variety of plant-based foods in the diet, rather than to focus on one specific type of flavonoid or flavonoid-rich food." Susan E. Steck et al., "Increased Flavonoid Intake Reduced Risk for Aggressive Prostate Cancer", News release, presentation at the AACR International Conference on Frontiers in Cancer Prevention Research, October 17, 2012, © American Association for Cancer Research

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Daily Multivitamin Reduces Cancer Risk In Men October 17, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Taking a daily multivitamin seems to significantly reduce the risk of cancer in men, according to the results of the first long-term clinical trial on the impact of multivitamins on cancer. Researchers tracked nearly 15,000 men who took either a multivitamin or a placebo for more than 10 years. The men themselves reported whether they had been diagnosed with cancer. The researchers found that those who took a daily multivitamin had eight percent fewer cancer diagnoses compared with the group taking the placebo. The multivitamins were also associated with an apparent reduction in cancer deaths. J. Michael Gaziano et al. , "Multivitamins in the Prevention of Cancer in Men: The Physicians' Health Study II Randomized Controlled Trial", JAMA, October 17, 2012, © American Medical Association

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Overeating Impairs The Brain’s Ability To Detect Insulin Signals, Which Can Lead To Diabetes October 16, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A U.S. study in animals has found a connection between overeating and a brain malfunction associated with poor insulin control and eventually diabetes. Overeating impairs the ability of brain insulin to suppress glucose release from the liver and lipolysis in fat tissue. When a person  overeats, the brain becomes unresponsive to important clues such as insulin, which then leads to diabetes. According to the researchers, the study shows “that it is really the brain that is harmed first [in overeating] which then starts the downward spiral." T. Scherer et al., "Short Term Voluntary Overfeeding Disrupts Brain Insulin Control of Adipose Tissue Lipolysis", Journal of Biological Chemistry, October 16, 2012, © American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

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Cognitive Impairment In Elderly Is Worse If Diet Is Heavy In Carbs, Sugar October 16, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Mayo Clinic scientists who tracked 940 people aged 70 to 89 who provided regular information about their diets found that those who consumed a lot of carbohydrates were significantly more likely to experience mild cognitive impairment. The risk was even greater among those whose diet was heavy in sugar. Those who consumed a lot of protein and fat relative to carbohydrates were less likely to become cognitively impaired. At the start of the study participants showed no signs of cognitive impairment. But after four years 200 of those 940 were beginning to show mild cognitive impairment. When total fat and protein intake were taken into account, people with the highest carbohydrate intake were 3.6 times likelier to become cognitively impaired. Rosebud O. Roberts et al., "Relative Intake of Macronutrients Impacts Risk of Mild Cognitive Impairment or Dementia", Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, October 16, 2012, © Journal of Alzheimer's Disease

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Premature Babies With Damaged Intestines Could Benefit From Prebiotic Feeding October 15, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Children who have suffered from intestinal failure could benefit from adding the right prebiotics to their diet, a U.S. study has found in piglets. The researchers fed the newborn pigs the carbohydrate fructooligosacharide (FOS) as a prebiotic. Many premature infants develop necrotizing enterocolitis, a kind of gangrene of the intestine and have to be fed intravenously once the damaged parts of the intestine are surgically removed. The new research found that by adding FOS to the piglets’ diet, the gut grew and increased in function. FOS enters the intestines where bacteria convert it into butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that increases the size of the intestines and their ability to digest and absorb nutrients. J. L. Barnes et al., " Intestinal Adaptation Is Stimulated by Partial Enteral Nutrition Supplemented With the Prebiotic Short-Chain Fructooligosaccharide in a Neonatal Intestinal Failure Piglet Model", Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition, October 15, 2012, © The American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition

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Discovery Could Lead To Development Of Vaccine To Treat Celiac Disease October 11, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A study by an international team of researchers has visually determined how T-cells of the immune system interact with gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye and barley that causes celiac disease. A chronic inflammatory disorder that affects the digestive process of the small intestine, the disease affects approximately 1 in 133 people. The researchers said this is the first time the intricacies of the interaction between gluten and two proteins that initiate immune responses have been visualized at a sub-molecular level. The finding will help the company ImmusanT develop a blood test and a therapeutic vaccine, Nexvax2, that could restore immune tolerance to gluten and allow patients to again include gluten in their diet. Sophie E. Broughton et al., "Biased T Cell Receptor Usage Directed against Human Leukocyte Antigen DQ8-Restricted Gliadin Peptides Is Associated with Celiac Disease", Immunity, October 11, 2012, © Elsevier, Inc.

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Survey Finds Britons Need To Bone Up On Fiber, Nutrition Facts October 10, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Though a large number of Britons – 75 percent – believe they eat a healthy, balanced diet, a survey for independent baker Warburtons has found that most are fairly ignorant about nutrition, especially when it comes to fiber. The survey found that half British adults say they get enough fiber from the foods they eat, though almost none knew what the recommended daily intake is. Most knew they get fiber from whole grain bread, rice and pasta, but they also believed they get fiber from eggs, chocolate and even beer. The U.K.’s National Health Service recommends daily fiber intake of 18 to 24 grams, but the average Briton consumes only 13 grams. Giles Sheldrick, "Fibre In Beer? UK Clueless About Diet", Express.co.uk, October 10, 2012, © Northern and Shell Media Publications

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Kretschmer Launches Web Site Promoting Health Benefits, Versatility Of Its Wheat Germ October 9, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Wheat germ brand Kretschmer (Sun Country Foods) believes its “superfood” should play a bigger role in America’s breakfast, lunch and dinner plans. The brand has launched a Web site that provides wheat germ recipes and healthy lifestyle tips designed to upgrade wheat germ’s profile as a nutrition-packed and versatile meal ingredient. Wheat germ is derived from the most nutrient rich part of the wheat kernel and is an excellent – low-calorie – source of vitamin E, the B vitamins, folic acid, protein and fiber. MyWheatGerm.com suggests adding wheat germ to morning yogurt or cereal, a salad or smoothie at lunch, or using it as an alternative to bread crumbs at dinner time. "Look Who's Coming To Dinner, Lunch And Breakfast: Wheat Germ Is One Of This Year's Rising Health Food Stars", News release, Kretschmer/Sun Country Foods, October 09, 2012, © Sun Country Foods

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Vitamin C Stimulates Bone Growth, Protects Against Osteoporosis – Study October 9, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A Chinese and American research team has found in an animal study that large doses of vitamin C can protect against the onset of osteoporosis. The study in female mice whose ovaries had been removed – the procedure reduces bone density –  showed that vitamin C actively stimulates bone formation by inducing premature bone cells (osteoblasts) to differentiate into mature specialty cells. The scientists suggested that further research could determine whether vitamin C supplements can prevent osteoporosis in humans, especially elderly women and men. Ling-Ling Zhu et al., "Vitamin C Prevents Hypogonadal Bone Loss", PLoS ONE, October 09, 2012, © Zhu et al.

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Diet Rich In Omega-3 Fatty Acids Lowers Risk Of Arterial Inflammation, Atherosclerosis October 8, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Scientists at Columbia University working in  mice have found that a diet high in saturated fat increases the levels of an enzyme that has been linked to inflammation and hardening of the arteries. The enzyme, endothelial lipase (EL), plays a role in the metabolism of blood lipoproteins. For the study, mouse models of atherosclerosis were fed a diet enriched with either the saturated fat palmitic acid or a polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oil and other foods. After three weeks, the aortas of the mice fed saturated fat showed a significant increase in EL, as well as inflammation. Mice fed omega-3 fatty acids showed less EL and more beneficial changes in inflammation. U. J. Jung et al., " Fatty Acids Regulate Endothelial Lipase and Inflammatory Markers in Macrophages and in Mouse Aorta", Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology, October 08, 2012, © American Heart Association, Inc.

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Less Acculturated U.S. Hispanics Have Very Different Ideas About Healthy Foods October 8, 2012: 12:00 AM EST An NPD study of U.S. Hispanics’ food and beverage consumption patterns finds that  those who are foreign-born and speak mostly Spanish tend to think of healthy foods as lacking in taste and nutrition. Instead, healthy and nutritious are defined by the quantity of food served rather than the quality. Forty-six percent of Spanish-language dominant Hispanics feel that almost all healthy food lacks flavor. But these numbers change the longer Hispanics are in the U.S. Thirty-one percent of bilingual Hispanics and only 11 percent of “English dominant” Hispanics agree that healthy foods lack flavor or nutrition. The report suggests that food manufacturers and retailers could tailor their products to fulfill the needs of less acculturated Hispanics. " U.S. Hispanics Define Nutrition in Terms of Quality and Quantity and Perceive Healthy Foods as Less Tasty, Reports NPD", Press release, NPD, October 08, 2012, © NPD

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Proprietary Resveratrol Supplement Improves Circulatory Function In Obese People October 3, 2012: 12:00 AM EST An Australian clinical study found that a proprietary resveratrol supplement improved the circulatory function of obese individuals with mild hypertension. For the placebo-controlled study, 28 people took 75 mg of DSM’s Resvida each day for six weeks. The researchers found a 23 percent increase in vasodilator function. Decreased vasodilator function is a biomarker for cardiovascular risk and is associated with obesity and high blood pressure. According to DSM, the best results would be  achieved with doses starting at 30 mg of Resvida a day to see any health benefits. "DSM ResVida resveratrol – New study confirms sustained vascular benefits", Press release, presentation at a meeting of the International Society of Hypertension, October 03, 2012, © DSM

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Increased Omega-3 Fatty Acid Consumption May Impact The Aging Process At The DNA Level October 1, 2012: 12:00 AM EST The symptoms of aging could be significantly decelerated if people were able to change the ratio of fatty acid consumption in a way – such as consuming more omega-3 fatty acids – that preserved the tiny segments of white blood cell DNA known as telomeres. The segments are known to constrict over time in many types of cells as a consequence of aging. But consuming enough omega-3 fatty acid supplements seems to lengthen telomeres in immune system cells, while also reducing oxidative stress. According to the researchers, the findings suggest that “a nutritional supplement might actually make a difference in aging.” Jan Kiecolt-Glaser et al., "Omega-3 supplementation lowers inflammation in healthy middle-aged and older adults: A randomized controlled trial", Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, October 01, 2012, © Elsevier Inc

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High-Calorie, High-Sugar, High-Sodium Diet Induces Metabolic Syndrome – Study October 1, 2012: 12:00 AM EST In an animal study, U.S. scientists found that the high-calorie, high-sugar, high-sodium diet known as the “cafeteria diet” induced symptoms of metabolic syndrome after only two months. The researchers gave sedentary rats – whose age was equivalent to humans 16 to 22 years – unlimited access to food pellets and a daily selection of common junk food items like cookies, sausage and cupcakes. Within two months the rats showed significant evidence of increased cholesterol, blood sugar, blood pressure and obesity, all symptoms of metabolic syndrome. Dr. Dale Corbett, "Cafeteria Diet Hastens Stroke Risk: High-Sugar, High-Salt Intake Creates 'a Ticking Time Bomb of Health Problems'", News release, presentation at the Canadian Stroke Congress, October 01, 2012, © Canadian Stroke Congress

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Zinc Deficiency Associated With Aging Increases Risk Of Health Problems October 1, 2012: 12:00 AM EST U.S. scientists have found in a study of older animals that increasing the levels of zinc in the diet can reduce the risk of health problems such as cancer, heart disease, autoimmune disease and diabetes. Zinc deficiency develops with age and can lead to a decline in the immune system and an increase in inflammation. Older animals in the study – whose “zinc transporters were significantly dysregulated” – were given about ten times the dietary requirement for zinc. The biomarkers of inflammation were restored to the levels of young animals, the researchers said. Carmen P. Wong et al., "Increased inflammatory response in aged mice is associated with age-related zinc deficiency and zinc transporter dysregulation", The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, October 01, 2012, © Elsevier Inc.

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Eating One Apple A Day Lowers Cholesterol Associated With Cardiovascular Disease September 29, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A clinical study involving healthy, nonsmoking middle-aged adults who seldom ate apples or took polyphenol supplements found that those who ate an apple a day for four weeks had lower levels of so-called bad cholesterol (LDL) in their blood. High LDL content has been linked to hardening of the arteries by inducing inflammation and tissue damage. According to the researchers, cholesterol was also lowered by consuming capsules of apple polyphenol extract, “though not as much as with whole apples”. Shi Zhao et al. , "Intakes of apples or apple polyphenols decease plasma values for oxidized low-density lipoprotein/beta2-glycoprotein I complex", Journal of Functional Foods, September 29, 2012, © Elsevier

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Eating Cherries Reduces Risk Of Gout Flare-Ups September 28, 2012: 12:00 AM EST With 8.3 million people in the U.S. suffering from the painful condition known as gout, the discovery of a simple, natural and effective remedy comes as very good news. U.S. researchers have known for some time that cherry products lower uric acid levels and inflammation. In a new study they found that gout patients who consumed cherries for two days reduced their risk of gout attacks by 35 percent. Participants consumed up to three servings (1/2 cup per serving) over two days. When cherry intake was combined with the uric acid reducing drug allopurinol, the risk of gout flare-ups was 75 percent lower. Yuqing Zhang et al., "Cherry Consumption and the Risk of Recurrent Gout Attacks", Arthritis & Rheumatism, September 28, 2012, © American College of Rheumatology

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Nutrition Bars Fortified With Fish Oil Are Shelf Stable And Have No “Fishy” Odor September 27, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Scientists at the University of Maine have developed oat- and soy-based nutrition bars fortified with fish oil that are not only shelf stable, they taste good and have no fishy odor. Fish oil is rich in nutritious omega-3 fatty acids. However, food companies have been reluctant to include fish oil in products because of the fishy smell. The researchers tested four levels of fish oil content – partially replacing canola oil – and found that the lowest (20 percent) replacement level delivered 178 mg of omega-3 fatty acids per 35 g serving. Moreover, “The fortified bars were oxidatively stable over 10 weeks and acceptable to consumers.” Brianna H. Hughes et al., "Oxidative Stability and Consumer Acceptance of Fish Oil Fortified Nutrition Bars", Journal of Food Science, September 27, 2012, © John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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Choline-Rich Diet During Pregnancy Reduces Child’s Risk Of Later Health Problems September 25, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Pregnant women who eat eggs and meat – foods rich in the nutrient choline – decrease the risk that their children will suffer from stress-related illnesses, such as mental health problems and hypertension as they grow older, U.S. scientists find. The research found that higher-than-normal amounts of choline in the diet during pregnancy modified epigenetic markers in the fetus. The markers don’t change DNA, but they do permanently affect whether the gene will express, i.e., turn on or off. Choline affects markers that control the body’s hormonal activity, including the production of cortisol. Over-exposure to cortisol in the womb can  increase a baby’s lifelong risk of stress-related and metabolic disorders. X. Jiang et al., "Maternal choline intake alters the epigenetic state of fetal cortisol-regulating genes in humans", The FASEB Journal, September 25, 2012, © Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology

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Study Shows That Drinking Low-Cal Cranberry Juice Reduces Blood Pressure September 25, 2012: 12:00 AM EST An eight-week placebo-controlled U.S. study of the effects of drinking diet cranberry juice has found a significant positive impact on blood pressure. Researchers measured blood pressure of study participants at the beginning, mid-point and end of the study. They found that blood pressure dropped from an average of 121/73 mmHg to 118/70 mmHg among the cranberry juice drinkers, but found no change among the placebo group. According to the researchers, cranberry juice is rich in antioxidants that have been associated with blood pressure reduction. The study was funded by Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc. "Low Calorie Cranberry Juice Lowers Blood Pressure in Healthy Adults, Study Finds", News release, presentation at the American Heart Association's High Blood Pressure Research 2012 Scientific Sessions, September 25, 2012, © American Heart Association

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Study Shows Blueberry Ingredient Reduces Blood Pressure September 20, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial involving 80 adults with high cholesterol showed that a commercial form of pterostilbene, a compound found naturally in blueberries, reduces blood pressure. The U.S. study evaluated whether the ingredient – marketed as pTeroPure – improves cardiovascular health. Participants took either high (125 mg) doses of pterostilbene, low doses, pterostilbene with grape extract or a placebo twice a day for 6-8 weeks. Patients who received the high doses of pterostilbene experienced significant drops in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, compared to the placebo group. Marion Wofford et al., "Clinical Trial Reveals Pterostilbene Reduces Blood Pressure in Adults", News release, presentation at the American Heart Association's 2012 Scientific Sessions on High Blood Pressure Research, September 20, 2012, © American Heart Association

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Study Finds That Women Who Read Food Labels Tend To Be Thinner September 19, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A multinational study of women consumers finds that those who read food labels when shopping weighed nine pounds less than those who didn’t read labels. The study analyzed data from an  annual health survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that collected more than 25,000 observations on health, eating and shopping habits. The study also found that women read labels more often than men; smokers in general paid even less attention to food labels. "These findings imply that health education campaigns can employ nutritional labels as one of the instruments for reducing obesity," the authors write. Maria L. Loureiro et al., "The effects of nutritional labels on obesity", Agricultural Economics, September 19, 2012, © John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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Eating Yogurt Can Reduce Risk Of High Blood Pressure September 19, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A 15-year U.S. study of more than 2,000 volunteers who were not hypertensive at the start of the research found that yogurt-eaters were at less risk of developing high blood pressure than non-yogurt eaters. Study participants were 31 percent less likely to develop high blood pressure if at least two percent of their daily calories came from yogurt. That would amount to about one 6-oz. cup of low-fat yogurt every three days. "Yogurt Consumption Blood Pressure and Incident Hypertension", News release, presentation at the American Heart Association's High Blood Pressure Research 2012 Scientific Sessions, September 19, 2012, © American Heart Association

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DASH Diet Lowers Blood Pressure, And With Exercise It Helps Shed Pounds September 19, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A Duke University study finds that the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet  lowers blood pressure and, with aerobic exercise, it also lowers weight. The DASH diet is low in fats and cholesterol, and rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products. The 144 obese, hypertensive adults in the study either adhered to the DASH diet plus exercise, the DASH diet alone, or no diet. The diet plus exercise group lost an average of 19 pounds. No weight change occurred among those who didn’t diet or dieted without exercise. Both groups on the DASH diet lowered their blood pressure. The researchers suggest that African-Americans might be more likely to adopt the diet if traditional recipes were modified to meet nutritional guidelines, rather than eliminating certain foods. Dawn E. Epstein et al., "Determinants and Consequences of Adherence to the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension Diet in African-American and White Adults with High Blood Pressure", Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, September 19, 2012, © Elsevier Inc.

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Bypass Surgery Leads To Faster Weight Loss And Reduction In Heart Disease Risk September 18, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Although lifestyle changes involving diet and exercise are the best way to prevent or treat obesity – and reduce the risk of heart disease – there’s a faster solution. According to preventive cardiologist Sheldon Litwin, gastric bypass surgery spurs weight loss much faster than lifestyle modifications while reducing heart disease risk. Litwin co-authored a six-year study of more than 1,000 severely obese people, a third of whom had gastric bypass surgery. The rest either didn't seek or couldn't get the surgery. Surgery patients experienced about a 30 percent weight loss (compared with none in control groups). They also had significantly fewer  cardiovascular risk factors. The control groups, however, did not participate in lifestyle therapies. Ted D. Adams et al. , "Health Benefits of Gastric Bypass Surgery After 6 Years", JAMA, September 18, 2012, © American Medical Association

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Malnourished African Children Did Not Gain Weight After Eating Food Supplement September 17, 2012: 12:00 AM EST African children suffering from malnutrition did not gain weight after eating energy-dense food supplements, but did show other benefits, according to a study conducted by an international non-governmental organization with Belgian and French researchers. The study investigated the effect of daily doses of a lipid-based nutrient product known as Ready-to-Use Supplementary Food (RUSF) on 519 children aged 6 to 36 months in Abeche, Chad, a city experiencing food shortages. The addition of RUSF to the household food rations had little effect on weight. But, compared to the 519 children in the control group, those in the RUSF group had a greater gain in height-for-age, slightly higher hemoglobin levels, and lower rates of diarrhea and fever, as reported by the child's parents. Lieven Huybregts et al., "The Effect of Adding Ready-to-Use Supplementary Food to a General Food Distribution on Child Nutritional Status and Morbidity", PLoS Medicine, September 17, 2012, © Huybregts et al.

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Add Adequate Sleep To Weight Loss Program To Get The Most Benefit September 17, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Calorie restrictions and increased physical activity are the usual prescriptions for a weight loss program. But two Canadian researchers argue that adequate sleep should be included as well. The researchers said inadequate sleep stimulates the desire to eat more and increases appetite-regulating hormones. They found that total sleep time and quality of sleep were accurate predictors of fat loss in people participating in weight loss programs. “Sleep should be included as part of the lifestyle package that traditionally has focused on diet and physical activity," they wrote. Jean-Philippe Chaput and Angelo Tremblay, "Adequate sleep to improve the treatment of obesity", Canadian Medical Association Journal, September 17, 2012, © Canadian Medical Association

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