Time To Dispel Myths About The Purported Adverse Effects Of White Bread September 15, 2012: 12:00 AM EST The tide may be turning in the controversy over whether white bread is beneficial or detrimental  to health. A new study from a U.K. researcher takes “health campaigners and TV nutritionists” to task for “demonizing” white bread in recent years. Dr. Aine O’Connor stresses that “bread is an important source of nutrition” and “health professionals need to dispel the myths.” One such myth is that consuming bread contributes to obesity. She notes that though bread consumption in the U.K. has fallen steadily, the country has the worst obesity problem in Europe. Bread is loaded with nutrients, and though it has been high in salt, manufacturers have taken steps to cut sodium content.  James Hall, "White bread is not bad for you, experts say", The Telegraph, September 15, 2012, © Telegraph Media Group Limited

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Study Finds That Vigorous Exercise Before Eating Reduces Appetite September 13, 2012: 12:00 AM EST New U.S. research finds that a vigorous exercise session that lasts 45 minutes in the morning actually reduces a person’s appetite. Researchers measured the neural activity of 35 women while they looked at photos of food – after a morning workout and with no workout. The women’s “attentional response” to the food images decreased after the workout session. "This study provides evidence that exercise not only affects energy output, but it also may affect how people respond to food cues," the researchers wrote. Bliss Hanlon et al., "Neural Response to Pictures of Food after Exercise in Normal-Weight and Obese Women", Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, September 13, 2012, © American College of Sports Medicine

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“Scheduled” High-Fat Feedings Prevent Obesity September 12, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Animal-based research conducted in Israel has found that the timing of consumption of a high-fat diet is important to its impact on weight loss. A carefully scheduled high-fat diet can reduce body weight and induce changes metabolism: ingested fat is not stored but is used as energy between meals. For 18 weeks, mice fed a high-fat diet on a fixed schedule were compared to mice that ate scheduled and unscheduled low-fat diets, and a high-fat diet on a fixed schedule. The mice on the scheduled high-fat diet had a lower final body weight than mice on an unscheduled high-fat diet, as well as mice on the unscheduled low-fat diet, though both consumed the same number of calories. H. Sherman et al., "Timed high-fat diet resets circadian metabolism and prevents obesity", The FASEB Journal, September 12, 2012, © Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology

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Omega-3 Supplements Do Not Lower Risk Of Death From Cardiovascular Disease September 11, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Greek researchers who reviewed study data on 70,000 heart patients found no statistically significant association between omega-3 fatty acid supplementation and a lower risk of all-cause death, cardiac death, sudden death, heart attack, and stroke. The conclusions were based on 20 studies. The researchers said their findings do not justify the use of omega-3 supplements “as a structured intervention in everyday clinical practice or guidelines supporting dietary omega-3 fatty acid administration.” Rizos EC et al., "Association Between Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation and Risk of Major Cardiovascular Disease Events: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis", JAMA, September 11, 2012, © American Medical Association

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Ginkgo Biloba Supplement Does Not Improve Cognitive Impairment In MS Patients September 11, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A new study that followed up on earlier more promising research has found that the Chinese herbal supplement Ginkgo biloba does not improve cognitive function in multiple sclerosis patients. Between 40 and 60 percent of MS patients have memory problems, lower mental processing speed and reduced executive brain skills. Participants in the placebo-controlled study took 120 mg of Ginkgo biloba twice a day. The U.S. researchers acknowledged that participants were treated for only 12 weeks – perhaps not long enough to modify the disease. They said it is possible that Ginkgo may improve cognitive function if administered earlier in the MS process. J. F. Lovera et al., "Ginkgo biloba does not improve cognitive function in MS: A randomized placebo-controlled trial", Neurology, September 11, 2012, © AAN Enterprises, Inc.

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One Million Americans Now Using USDA’s Diet Planning/Tracking Tool September 6, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A free online diet planning and tracking tool developed by the USDA has garnered more than a million registered users, according to Secretary Tom Vilsack. SuperTracker, unveiled in December 2011 along with the My Plate icon, features updated food and physical activity databases, a tool that allows users to set personal calorie goals and a system for tracking personal physical activity. SuperTracker incorporates both the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines and is designed to help Americans put the guidelines into practice in day to day activities. "USDA's SuperTracker Diet Planning and Tracking Tool Reaches One Million Registered Users", Press release, USDA, September 06, 2012, © USDA

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Study Will Test Whether Vitamin E-Rich Soups In Pregnancy Reduce Child Asthma September 6, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Researchers at Scotland’s University of Aberdeen are recruiting mothers-to-be for a study to determine whether eating soups bolstered with vitamin E-rich foods can prevent childhood asthma. The three super-soups -- developed with Scottish food manufacturer Baxters Food Group -- nearly double the daily intake of vitamin E (to 15 mg). The soups are made from sundried tomatoes, sunflower oil, beans, lentils and wheat germ. The soups will be tested – three servings a week – among expectant mothers from 12 weeks into their pregnancy through delivery. The study is based on earlier findings that pregnant women whose diet is low in vitamin E have babies more prone to asthma. Prof. Graham Devereux, "Can souped-up soup tackle childhood asthma?", News release, University of Aberdeen, September 06, 2012, © University of Aberdeen

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Non-Alcoholic Red Wine Significantly Reduces Blood Pressure – Study September 6, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Non-alcoholic red wine turns out to be a healthier choice for wine drinkers with high blood pressure, according to new research. The study involved 67 men who had diabetes and at least three risk factors for heart disease, including hypertension. After each of three four-week phases – drinking regular wine, non-alcoholic wine and gin while eating a normal diet – the participants were tested. The red wine had very little impact on blood pressure, while gin had no impact. But after drinking non-alcoholic red wine, blood pressure dropped by about 6mmHg in systolic and 2mmHg in diastolic blood pressure. The decrease in blood pressure could over time reduce the risk of heart disease by 14 percent and stroke by 20 percent. Gemma Chiva-Blanch et al., "Pressure and Increases Plasma Nitric Oxide", Circulation Research, September 06, 2012, © American Heart Association

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Soluble Corn Fiber Shown To Be Beneficial For Health, And Well-Tolerated In High Amounts September 6, 2012: 12:00 AM EST New research sponsored by U.K. food ingredients provider Tate & Lyle provides evidence that diets rich in soluble corn fiber can be both well-tolerated and healthful. One study in adolescents showed that soluble corn fiber significantly increased beneficial bacteria in the gut and increased calcium absorption. A second study among adults found that 40 grams of soluble corn fiber consumed in a single dose, or up to 65 grams consumed in multiple doses throughout the day, were well-tolerated. The doses exceeded daily recommendations for fiber, and far exceeded average actual daily intake. Neither children nor adults consume anywhere near the recommended 19-38 grams per day. "New Research Indicates Soluble Corn Fibre Plays an Important Role in Promoting Gut Health and Increasing Calcium Absorption", Press release, Tate & Lyle, September 06, 2012, © Tate & Lyle

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Nestlé Tackles The Health And Wellness Market Again With Anti-Obesity, Anti-Diabetes Foods September 5, 2012: 12:00 AM EST In an attempt to convince countries around the world that it is cheaper to prevent than treat diabetes and obesity, Nestlé SA is marketing products that target those chronic conditions. Boost shakes, for example, were formulated to help diabetes patients control blood sugar. According to Bloomberg Businessweek, Nestlé’s offerings mark the third attempt to crack the health and wellness market. Success in the latest endeavor depends on whether Nestlé can convince regulators that its products are scientifically sound. The company also needs to “persuade doctors to prescribe them and show they can do something drugmakers’ offerings can’t”. Dermot Doherty, "Nestle Diversifies With Products Fighting Junk Food Ills", Bloomberg Businessweek, September 05, 2012, © Bloomberg L.P.

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Defeatist Attitude Of Overweight Women Often Leads To Failure Of Weight Loss Drugs September 5, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A British researcher reports that obese patients who fail to lose weight while taking an anti-obesity drug are hampered by their own perceptions about themselves and about the weight loss process. Dr. Amelia Hollywood interviewed 10 overweight patients who had been prescribed the weight loss medication Orlistat. Over 18 months the patients had all gained weight while on the drug. The women told Dr. Hollywood that their failure to lose weight was an inevitable part of their identity, and reflected a self-fulfilling belief that they would always be on a diet. She recommended that doctors who prescribe weight loss drugs stress the importance of a proper –i.e., low fat – diet to avoid adverse consequences. Amelia Hollywood, "When Psychology Trumps Anti Obesity Drugs", News release, presentation at the annual conference of the British Psychological Society's Division of Health Psychology, September 05, 2012, © British Psychological Society

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Organic Foods May Be Safer To Eat, But Not More Nutritious – Study September 4, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Organically grown food may be safer – limiting a person’s exposure to chemical fertilizers and pesticides – but it is not really healthier than conventionally grown foods, a U.S. analysis of more than 200 studies has found. The researchers could find no real differences between organic and conventional food in terms of nutritional content. But organic food was 30 percent less likely to contain pesticides. Some of the studies reported that organic milk contained more omega-3 fatty acids, and some reported that organic foods contained more nitrogen, probably because of differences in fertilizer use. Extra nitrogen is unlikely to confer any health benefit, however. Crystal Smith-Spangler et al., "Are Organic Foods Safer or Healthier Than Conventional Alternatives?: A Systematic Review", Annals of Internal Medicine, September 04, 2012, © The American College of Physicians

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Metabolic Disorder Linked To Adolescent Brain Impairments September 3, 2012: 12:00 AM EST The increase in childhood obesity in the U.S. has led to an increased occurrence of metabolic syndrome (MetS), a precursor of diabetes. A new U.S. study has now uncovered an association between metabolic syndrome and cognitive impairments in adolescents. Researchers compared 49 adolescents with metabolic syndrome to 62 teens without the disorder. They conducted endocrine, MRI and neuropsychological evaluations on the adolescents and found that those classified as having MetS showed significantly lower math and spelling scores, as well as decreased attention span and mental flexibility. Po Lai Yau et al., "Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome and Functional and Structural Brain Impairments in Adolescence", Pediatrics, September 03, 2012, © American Academy of Pediatrics

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Vitamin D Supplementation Does Not Lower Cholesterol August 31, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Researchers who studied people with vitamin D deficiency taking large doses (50,000 IU) of vitamin D3 for eight weeks found no decrease in cholesterol levels of the participants. Vitamin D therapy did result in decreased parathyroid hormone levels and increased calcium levels, changes that were linked to an increase in low-density lipoprotein (LDL, bad cholesterol). The U.S. researchers recommended longer-term studies on the impact of the changes in LDL cholesterol with vitamin D therapy. They also wondered whether exposure to sunlight, the predominant natural source of vitamin D, would have a different effect than supplements. Manish P. Ponda et al., "The Short-Term Effects of Vitamin D Repletion on Cholesterol: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial", Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, August 31, 2012, © American Heart Association, Inc.

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Microgreens Found To Have Higher Concentrations Of Micronutrients Than Mature Plants August 29, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Many of the currently trendy seedlings – known as microgreens – of green vegetables and herbs are actually more nutritious than the mature versions, according to U.S. research. Microgreens have gained popularity in recent years, a culinary trend that has blossomed in many upscale markets and restaurants. Seedlings of spinach, lettuce, red cabbage and other vegetables are usually one to three inches tall and harvested 14 days after germination. The researchers found that microgreens generally have higher concentrations of healthful vitamins and carotenoids than their mature counterparts. Zhenlei Xiao et al., "Assessment of Vitamin and Carotenoid Concentrations of Emerging Food Products: Edible Microgreens", Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, August 29, 2012, © American Chemical Society

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Leftover Antibiotics In Sausage Meat Can Actually Boost Pathogen Production August 28, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Residues of antibiotics often weaken or kill beneficial bacteria added to uncured pepperoni or salami sausages to make them safe for consumption, according to Danish and Irish researchers. Sausage meat is commonly inoculated with lactic-acid-producing bacteria to control the fermentation process. The final product is then acidic enough to kill pathogens that might have existed in the raw meat. But antibiotics residues kill the bacteria that produce lactic acid, thus allowing pathogenic bacteria to proliferate. Unfortunately, the leftover antibiotic is not potent enough to kill the harmful pathogens. The researchers note that good quality controls in processing plants can catch fermentation problems. Jette Kjeldgaard et al., "Residual Antibiotics Disrupt Meat Fermentation and Increase Risk of Infection", mBio, August 28, 2012, © Kjeldgaard et al.

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Older Men Who Take Their Vitamins Have Healthier Sperm August 27, 2012: 12:00 AM EST U.S. researchers have found that men older than age 44 who consumed the most vitamins C and E, zinc and folate had 20 percent less sperm DNA damage than those who consumed the least. The findings were based on an analysis of 80 healthy male volunteers between the ages of 22 and 80. According to the researchers, consuming greater quantities of micronutrients – either from  supplements or their diet – “helps turn back the clock for older men,” who generally have an increased risk of sperm DNA damage. The research comes as more men over 35 have children, which raises public health concerns, the scientists said. Thomas E. Schmid et al., "Micronutrients intake is associated with improved sperm DNA quality in older men", Fertility and Sterility, August 27, 2012, © American Society for Reproductive Medicine

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Poor Kids And Couch Potatoes Love Sugary Drinks – Canadian Study August 24, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A thirst for sugary drinks is the common denominator of preschoolers from low-income neighborhoods and couch potato kids mesmerized by TV and video games, according to Canadian research. Researchers who surveyed parents about the dietary and lifestyle habits of 1,800 Canadian preschoolers found that 54.5 percent of four- and five-year-olds from poor neighborhoods drank at least one soda or fruit juice a week. Only 40.8 percent of kids from wealthier neighborhoods drank that many sugary beverages. Similar drinking habits were found among preschoolers who spent more than two hours a day watching TV or playing video games. Kate Storey et al., "Food Consumption Patterns in Preschool Children", Canadian Journal of Dietetic Practice and Research, August 24, 2012, © Dietitians of Canada

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Gluten-Free Diet Does Not Lead To Weight Loss – Study August 23, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A U.S. scientist reports that he could find no evidence that a gluten-free diet offers health benefits or promotes weight loss in the general population. Only one percent of Americans suffers from celiac disease, and another six percent suffers from gluten sensitivity. These people need to avoid gluten – a protein found in wheat, barley and rye – in all foods they eat. For the rest of the population, gluten may provide important benefits, such as supporting heart, gut and immune system health. A gluten-free diet does not lead to weight loss, either. In fact, according to Glenn Gaesser, Ph.D., it may promote weight gain, because gluten-free products contain more added fats and sugars. "New Research Debunks Gluten-free Diet for Weight Loss", Press release, Grain Foods Foundation, August 23, 2012, © Grain Foods Foundation

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Believing The Mythology Surrounding Prostate Cancer Can Be Dangerous For Men August 22, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A mythology has grown up around the causes, preventive measures and treatment of prostate cancer, according to a U.S. expert. For example, consuming lycopene – the nutrient that gives tomatoes their red color – does not prevent prostate cancer. Nor does fish oil, with its high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, or selenium or vitamin E. In fact, studies have shown that selenium and vitamin supplements actually increase the risk of prostate cancer. As to PSA diagnosis, one in ten men screened for prostate cancer using PSA tests actually do benefit from treatment, not one in 50 as reported by some researchers. "Prostate Cancer: Six Things Men Should Know About Tomatoes, Fish Oil, Vitamin Supplements, Testosterone, PSA Tests", Prostate Cancer Six Things Men Should Know About Tomatoes, Fish Oil, Vitamin Supplements, Testosterone, PSA Tests, August 22, 2012, © Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center

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Electricity Supercharges Antioxidant And Polyphenol Content Of Sweet Potatoes August 20, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Japanese researchers report that sending an electrical charge through an average sweet potato can greatly boost its nutritional value. Supercharging the sweet potato, which is already considered one of the most nutritious of vegetables and a global dietary staple for millennia, offers a way to further increase the role of the vegetable in “relieving hunger and improving nutrition and health,” the researchers said. The study found that passing 0.2 amps of current through a salt solution containing sweet potatoes increased antioxidant activity by 1.4 times and total polyphenol content by 1.6 times. Kazunori Hironaka et al., "Electrifying success in raising antioxidant levels in sweet potatoes", News release, presentation at the National Meeting of the American Chemical Society, August 20, 2012, © American Chemical Society

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Local Illinois Wines Prove To Have Anti-Carb Properties August 20, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Scientists at the University of Illinois who analyzed the anti-carb effects of some local wines found that they compared favorably with the anti-diabetes drug acarbose, which inhibits enzymes responsible for carbohydrate absorption and assimilation. Alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase enzymes were inhibited by the bioactive compounds of blueberry and blackberry wines in a range of 91.8 percent for alpha-amylase compared to acarbose, and 103.2 percent for alpha-glucosidase compared to acarbose. That could someday mean a tasty – and dealcoholized – way to help people with diabetes decrease their blood sugar. Michelle H. Johnson & Elvira Gonzalez de Mejia, "Comparison of Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Capacity of Commercially Available Blueberry and Blackberry Wines in Illinois", Journal of Food Science, August 20, 2012, © John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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Coconut Water Makes A Great Sports Drink, But Maybe Not For Super-Athletes August 20, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A U.S. researcher recently presented evidence that coconut water lives up to its reputation as a natural sports drink, but perhaps not for super-athletes. Chhandashri Bhattacharya said coconut water provides everything that the big commercial sports drinks offer, including five times the potassium of either Gatorade or Powerade. Coconut water, however, had only 400 mg/liter of sodium compared to 600 for the other two drinks, which is the main reason why it may not be suited for those who participate in strenuous exercise. However, it had comparable quantities of magnesium and carbohydrates as the other drinks. Chhandashri Bhattacharya, "Coconut Water Is an Excellent Sports Drink -- For Light Exercise", News release, presentation at the National Meeting of the American Chemical Society, August 20, 2012, © American Chemical Society

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Resveratrol Might Someday Help Prevent Dangerous Falls Among Elderly August 19, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Experiments in mice have found that resveratrol, a natural antioxidant found in red wine and dark-skinned fruits, could someday be used to improve mobility and prevent life-threatening falls in older people. U.S. researchers acknowledged, however, that though the results are encouraging, resveratrol does have a major drawback: it is poorly absorbed by the body. That means a 150-pound person would have to drink almost 700 four-ounce glasses of red wine a day to absorb enough resveratrol to get any beneficial effects. The researchers are looking to develop a synthetic version that mimics the effects of resveratrol and might be more bioavailable. Jane E. Cavanaugh et al., "Red wine could help balance...but only with 700 glasses a day", News release, presentation at the National Meeting of the American Chemical Society, August 19, 2012, © American Chemical Society

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Foreign Fast Food Outlets Need To Work Harder To Interest Urban Chinese In Breakfast August 17, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Market research from Mintel finds an untapped fast food breakfast market in China. Foreign fast food outlets need to work on such key factors as flavor and affordability to boost Chinese interest in fast food breakfasts. Currently, only 21 percent of Chinese city dwellers eat breakfast in fast food restaurants, though 75 percent eat lunch there. Foreign fast food outlets continue to grow – from 36,000 in 2006 to more than 50,000 now – but to break the breakfast barrier they may need to add more local items to the menu. "Breakfast key to growth of foreign fast food market in China, reports Mintel", Press release, Mintel, August 17, 2012, © Mintel

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Diet Plan Advocates Eating Whole Wheat Bread August 17, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Losing weight – and losing an obesity problem – is the goal of The Healthy Way, a weight loss video program that advocates eating nutritional whole grain bread, which is much higher in fiber than white bread. The higher fiber content “helps your body eliminate toxins, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and has been found to lower risk of heart disease and cancer.” The diet plan suggests replacing butter and mayo with ketchup, mustard, or homemade hummus. Likewise, spreading olive oil on bread and adding natural herbs and spices is a great substitute for butter. "Including Bread in a Diet, Is It a Weight Loss Idea for Good Health", SBWIRE, August 17, 2012, © SBWire, The Small Business Newswire

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Eating Meat Cooked At High Temperatures Increases Risk Of Prostate Cancer August 16, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Pan frying red meats at high temperatures may increase the risk of advanced prostate cancer by as much as 40 percent, according to a new U.S. study. For the study, researchers analyzed data from nearly 2,000 men who participated in a California prostate cancer study. They found that men who ate more than 1.5 servings of pan-fried red meat per week increased their risk of advanced prostate cancer by 30 percent. Men who ate more than 2.5 servings of red meat cooked at high temperatures were 40 percent more likely to have advanced prostate cancer. The researchers said the higher risk may be a result of potent carcinogens formed when meats are cooked at high temperatures. Joshi AD et al., "Red meat and poultry, cooking practices, genetic susceptibility and risk of prostate cancer", Carcinogenesis, August 16, 2012, © Oxford University Press

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Some Foods Contain Mood-Enhancing Ingredients Similar To Antidepressant Drugs August 16, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Some food flavors may have mood-enhancing effects because of ingredients whose chemical composition is similar to valproic acid, a widely used prescription mood-stabilizing drug, U.S. scientists report. Molecules in chocolate, a variety of berries and foods containing omega-3 fatty acids have shown positive effects on mood. Valproic acid – sold under brand names such as Depakene, Depakote and Stavzor – is used to smooth out mood swings of people with manic-depressive disorder and related conditions. Karina Martinez-Mayorga et al., "Good Mood Foods: Some Flavors in Some Foods Resemble a Prescription Mood Stabilizer", News release, presentation at the National Meeting of the American Chemical Society, August 16, 2012, © American Chemical Society

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Preschoolers Who Learn Self-Control Gain Many Benefits As They Mature August 15, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Preschoolers who learn self-control when eating do better in school and are more likely to control their weight as they get older, a U.S. study finds. The study was based on data collected between 1968 and 1974, when 653 four-year-olds completed a delay of gratification test. They were given one treat and were told that they would be given a second treat if they could wait to eat the first for 15 minutes. Follow-up studies found that delaying gratification as a preschooler was associated with adolescent academic strength, social competence, planfulness, ability to handle stress, higher SAT scores and lower body mass. Tanya R. Schlam et al., " 'Preschoolers’ Delay of Gratification Predicts Their Body Mass 30 Years Later", The Journal of Pediatrics, August 15, 2012, © Elsevier B.V.

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Daily Intake Of Walnuts Boosts Sperm Health August 15, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Young men who eat 75 grams of walnuts – about two handfuls – a day improve the health of their sperm, a new U.S. study reports. The news offers hope to the 70 million or so couples who are experiencing subfertility or infertility worldwide. Thirty to 50 percent of the cases can be traced to the male partner. For the study, 117 healthy men between the ages of 21 and 35 either avoided eating tree nuts, or ate 75 grams of walnuts each day for 12 weeks. Tests of the sperm in both groups found that those who ate walnuts had improved sperm quality: greater vitality, motility, and morphology. Robbins WA et al., "Walnuts improve semen quality in men consuming a Western-style diet: randomized control dietary intervention trial", Biology of Reproduction, August 15, 2012, © Biology of Reproduction

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Mediterranean Diet Found To Boost Bone Formation In Older People August 15, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Eating a Mediterranean diet enriched with olive oil over a long period of time may have a protective effect on bones, an Italian study to be published in October finds. The study – it was originally designed to determine the diet’s impact on cardiovascular disease – included 127 men aged 55 to 80 years whose diet patterns were followed for two years. Researchers measured a variety of biomarkers, including cholesterol, triglycerides and osteocalcin, a bone formation marker. They found that only consumption of the Mediterranean diet with olive oil was associated with a significant increase in concentration of total osteocalcin and other bone formation markers. José Manuel Fernández-Real et al., "A Mediterranean Diet Enriched with Olive Oil Is Associated with Higher Serum Total Osteocalcin Levels in Elderly Men at High Cardiovascular Risk", Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, August 15, 2012, © Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism

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Yo-Yo Dieters Should Not Give Up On Healthy Diet, Physical Activity August 14, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Constantly shedding and regaining pounds – a common phenomenon known as weight cycling or “yo-yo dieting” – does not adversely affect metabolism or reduce the ability to lose weight over the long term, a U.S. study has found. Researchers analyzed data from 439 overweight-to-obese  sedentary women, ages 50 to 75, who were assigned to diet-exercise plans or no plan at all. Eighteen percent were severe weight cyclers who had lost 20 or more pounds at least three times; 24 percent were moderate weight cyclers. Reason for optimism: all of the dieters-exercisers lost weight, and cyclers did not differ from the non-cyclers in the amount of weight loss. Caitlin Mason et al., "History of weight cycling does not impede future weight loss or metabolic improvements in postmenopausal women", Metabolism, August 14, 2012, © Elsevier Inc.

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Cocoa Flavanol Intake Linked To Improvement Of Cognitive Impairment In Elderly August 9, 2012: 12:00 AM EST An Italian study of elderly people with mid cognitive impairment has found that daily intake of the  flavanols from cocoa significantly improved memory and cognitive scores, and reduced insulin resistance, blood pressure and oxidative stress. Flavanols are also found in tea, grapes, red wine, and apples, but for the study the source of the flavanols was restricted to cocoa. The researchers acknowledged that they weren’t sure whether the improvements in cognitive impairment were the direct result of the flavanols, or the indirect result of improvements in cardiovascular function. Davide Grassi et al., "Protective Effects of Flavanol-Rich Dark Chocolate on Endothelial Function and Wave Reflection During Acute Hyperglycemia", Hypertension, August 09, 2012, © American Heart Association, Inc.

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An Assortment Of Veggies At Mealtime May Encourage Healthier Eating August 8, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A four-week study by Penn State University researchers has found that participants offered a variety of vegetables ate more of them, even though they didn’t consume fewer total calories. The four different lunches during the study included various combinations of pasta with tomato sauce and broccoli, carrots or snap peas. Participants ate an average of 48 grams more vegetables when offered a variety. The researchers concluded that replacing salty, fatty foods in a person’s diet with a variety of vegetables may help increase the intake of healthy foods. Jennifer S. Meengs et al., "Vegetable Variety: An Effective Strategy to Increase Vegetable Intake in Adults", Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, August 08, 2012, © Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

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Physical Fitness In Adolescents Associated With Sufficient Levels Of Iron, Vitamin C August 8, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Researchers in Spain have found that the blood levels of various micronutrients such as iron and vitamin C in adolescents correlate with performance on physical fitness tests. Researchers analyzed nutrition and fitness data from a larger, long-term research project involving thousands of adolescents across Europe. The researchers found that for cardiorespiratory fitness, concentrations of hemoglobin, retinol, and vitamin C in males and beta-carotene and vitamin D in females was associated with maximum fitness. Concentrations of hemoglobin, beta-carotene, retinol, and alpha-tocopherol in males and beta-carotene and vitamin D in females were associated with better performance in the standing long jump. L. Gracia-Marco et al., "Iron and vitamin status biomarkers and its association with physical fitness in adolescents", Journal of Applied Physiology, August 08, 2012, © Journal of Applied Physiology

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A Normal-Weight Young Person Who “Feels” Fat May Grow Up To Be Obese August 8, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Researchers in Norway have determined from a long-term study of 1,196 normal-weight teenaged boys and girls that teens who perceive themselves as fat are more likely to grow up overweight or obese. The researcher suggested that one reason for this finding may be psychosocial stress that has been associated with gaining weight around the waist. The stress related to having (or not having) an ideal body type, along with thinking of oneself as fat, can result in weight gain. Another reason? Young people who see themselves as fat often change their eating habits by skipping meals. But dropping breakfast has been shown to lead to obesity. Koenraad Cuypers et al., "Being Normal Weight but Feeling Overweight in Adolescence May Affect Weight Development into Young Adulthood", Journal of Obesity, August 08, 2012, © Koenraad Cuypers et al.

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Dietitian Recommends “Super-Food” Tofu August 7, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A registered dietitian says substituting tofu for animal protein once a week is fairly risk-free and has many health benefits. For example, it helps lower overall cholesterol and so-called “bad” low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. As a soy product, tofu does have a down side: studies have linked intake of large amounts of soy to increased breast cancer risk. But in moderation, tofu is a “super-food” that has little saturated fat, zero cholesterol and lots of protein. Another benefit: it’s very versatile as a cooking ingredient and can be successfully added to any number of dishes. Darlene Endy , "Tofu has little saturated fat, no cholesterol and is packed with protein", The Post-Standard (Syracuse, N.Y.), August 07, 2012, © Syracuse Online LLC

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Fasting, And Low-Calorie Diets Generally, Linked With Slower Aging Process August 7, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A BBC report sheds some light on a scientific study that finds that the mostly out-of-favor “starvation diet” has some real benefits. BBC reporter Michael Mosley spoke with researchers at USC’s Longevity Institute, who say fasting reduces the levels of a growth factor (lGF-1) linked to disease development and aging. LGF-1 is needed during childhood, but not so much as a person ages. High levels later in life accelerate aging. But a low-calorie diet puts the brakes on lGF-1, slowing the aging process – at least in mice experiments. Victoria Fletcher, "Warning: This article tells you a starvation diet could actually be good for you - and make you live longer", Daily Mail (U.K.), August 07, 2012, © Associated Newspapers Ltd

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Babies Who Eat Healthy Foods Are Smarter By Age Eight Than Junk-Fed Peers August 7, 2012: 12:00 AM EST An Australian study of the dietary patterns of 7,000 infants and children up to eight years old found that those fed a healthy diet – e.g., legumes, cheese, fruit, vegetables – early in life had IQs at least two points higher at age eight than children fed junk food. Dietary patterns analyzed included home-prepared foods, ready-prepared baby foods, breastfeeding, and junk foods, such as cookies, chocolate, sweets, soft drinks and potato chips. "Diet supplies the nutrients needed for the development of brain tissues in the first two years of life,” researchers said. Lisa G. Smithers et al., "Dietary patterns at 6, 15 and 24 months of age are associated with IQ at 8 years of age", European Journal of Epidemiology, August 07, 2012, © Springer

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Research Uncovers Some Fun – And Healthy – Alternatives To Workouts, Dieting August 5, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Realbuzz.com surveyed recent scientific research that offers some fun -- but healthy -- alternatives to strenuous workouts and strict dieting. One study, for example, finds that repeating “mirthful laughter” can improve mood, lower blood pressure, reduce bad cholesterol and strengthen the immune system – just like exercising. Another fun option is eating fiber-packed popcorn, which lowers cholesterol and contains B vitamins. An occasional popcorn snack is a healthy addition to the diet, “so long as you cut down on the sugar, salt and oils.”  Other fun alternatives include chocolate, sunshine and music. "5 fun diet and fitness alternatives", realbuzz.com, August 05, 2012, © ABS-CBN Interactive/The Realbuzz Group Ltd.

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Funding Available For Research On Nutrition And Cognition August 4, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Researchers are encouraged to apply for a second wave of nutrition- and cognition-related research funding offered by Abbott Nutrition and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The funds – awarded through a collaborative effort known as the Center for Nutrition, Learning, and Memory – will support projects that focus on infants, pre-adolescent children, adults, the elderly, cancer patients and traumatic brain injury patients. According to Abbott, the research collaboration hopes to “uncover relationships between nutrition and cognition.” Elaine Watson, "Abbott Nutrition invites second wave of research proposals on diet and cognition", NutraIngredients, August 04, 2012, © William Reed Business Media SAS

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Supplement Company Focuses on Healthy Eating – And Prescription-Only Supplements August 4, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Diet Doc – a company that bills itself as a “wellness corporation, fitness facility, and sport supplement company” –  is touting a weight loss “ketogenic” diet that comprises green leafy vegetables, coconut oil (fat source), lean protein, fibrous plants and supplements. Nutritionists at the company tailor diet plans to patient needs, focusing on nutrient-rich greens like kale an spinach. A key to their diet plan is supplementation: fiber, probiotics and insulin and glucose support. Supplements are available only through prescriptions written by in-house doctors. "HCG Diet Doc Reveals Weight Loss Diet Plan", Muncie Free Press, August 04, 2012, © kpaul media

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Natural Therapies May Be Effective In Treating Chronic Fatigue August 3, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) – an almost constant feeling of being stressed out and exhausted – affects more than a million Americans, and is most common among people aged 40 to 59. Believed to follow an infection or a period of high stress, the symptoms may last for years, are usually not relieved, even with bed rest, and can lead to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, gastrointestinal distress, and depression of the immune system. Some natural and alternative therapies have been found effective in managing the condition: ginseng, kiwi fruit, omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oils, and relaxation techniques, including meditation. Catherine Ulbricht, Pharm.D., "Natural remedies can help fight chronic fatigue", Psychology Today, August 03, 2012, © Sussex Publishers, LLC

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Obesity Prevention Requires A Blend Of Strategies August 3, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Though obesity is a growing problem among children in the U.S. – 17 percent are considered obese – many parents continue to pack their cupboards and refrigerators with junk food. And the food industry continues to supply it. But mental health professional Diane Girardot reports that obesity can be prevented. It takes a combination of strategies: individual lifestyle changes, environmental and governmental policy changes, tighter regulation of the food industry and possibly litigation. Unfortunately, however, many parents refuse to deprive their children of junk food. And many people believe that obesity is a personal choice and the government has no business regulating what and how much they eat and drink. Diane Russell Girardot, "Behavior change and obesity in America", Philadelphia Inquirer, August 03, 2012, © Philadelphia Media Network Inc.

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Many People With Celiac Disease Remain Undiagnosed August 2, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A Mayo Clinic study, considered the most definitive to date, proves that celiac disease – a digestive disorder triggered by eating wheat, rye and barley – is “common” in the U.S. About 1.8 million Americans have it, though one in six remain undiagnosed. Meanwhile, about 1.6 million people have placed themselves on a gluten-free diet, though they have not been diagnosed, a fact that baffles physicians. "There are a lot of people on a gluten-free diet, and it's not clear what the medical need for that is," one researcher said. Alberto Rubio-Tapia et al., "The Prevalence of Celiac Disease in the United States", The American Journal of Gastroenterology, August 02, 2012, © The American College of Gastroenterology

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Study Of Modern Hunter-Gatherers Upends Theories About Global Obesity Problem July 26, 2012: 12:00 AM EST There is no difference in energy expenditure among modern hunter-gatherers and Westerners, according to new U.S. research that suggests eating too much, not exercising too little, might be the big problem. Scientists studied the Hadza of the savannah regions of northern Tanzania, who spend their days hunting and foraging for wild plants. Taking precise measurements and accounting for effects of body weight, etc., they found that the Hadza burned no more calories in a day than the average adult in the U.S. and Europe. The findings seem to indicate that the rise in obesity is due to increased food consumption, not decreased energy expenditure. Herman Pontzer et al., "Hunter-Gatherer Energetics and Human Obesity", PLoS ONE, July 26, 2012, © Pontzer et al.

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Excess Iodine Ingestion During Pregnancy Can Be Harmful To Children July 26, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Expectant mothers who take more than the recommended daily dose of iodine put their unborn children at risk of developing congenital hypothyroidism, according to a U.S. study. If left untreated, congenital hypothyroidism – or thyroid hormone deficiency – can cause neuro-cognitive impairments in infants and children. The recommended daily intake of iodine for expectant mothers is 200 – 300 micrograms (µg). But in three cases of infant hypothyroidism the researchers examined, the mothers had ingested 12.5 mg of iodine daily, or 11 times more than the safe upper limit of 1,100 µg. Sources of iodine include nutritional supplements, prenatal vitamins and seaweed. Kara J. Connelly et al., "Congenital Hypothyroidism Caused by Excess Prenatal Maternal Iodine Ingestion", The Journal of Pediatrics, July 26, 2012, © Elsevier B.V.

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Low Vitamin D Levels Among The Elderly Frail Can Be Deadly July 26, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Scientists have known for some time that frailty and vitamin D deficiency separately had harmful health effects on the elderly. But new U.S. research among 4,300 over-60 adults finds that low vitamin D levels increased the risk of death, especially among those already in delicate health. The researchers recommend that older adults be screened for vitamin D, and should maintain healthy levels of vitamin D by consuming fish and milk, and by getting more exercise in the sunshine. E Smit et al., "The effect of vitamin D and frailty on mortality among non-institutionalized US older adults", European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, July 26, 2012, © Nature Publishing Group

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Low-Protein Diet Among Pregnant Women Predisposes Offspring To Adult Hypertension July 25, 2012: 12:00 AM EST U.S. researchers report that the offspring of pregnant women who eat a low-protein diet are more prone to high blood pressure in adulthood because of the failure of an enzyme that moderates the hormone testosterone. In a study in rats, the researchers found that high maternal testosterone levels – associated with a low-protein diet – are caused by the activity of an enzyme that normally deactivates testosterone. When that enzyme, known as Hsd17b2, isn’t working properly, more testosterone reaches the fetus, boosting susceptibility to adult hypertension. The enzyme ordinarily converts testosterone to the less potent androgen, androstenedione. Haijun Gao et al., "estational Protein Restriction Reduces Expression of Hsd17b2 in Rat Placental Labyrinth", Biology of Reproduction, July 25, 2012, © The Society for the Study of Reproduction

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Subconscious “Stop Signs” Curtail Consumption Of Potato Chips In Tubes July 24, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Researchers at Cornell University have found that placing edible serving-size markers in tubes of potato chips can help curb overeating. The researchers conducted an experiment in which 96 students divided into two groups were served potato chips in tubes while watching videos in class. Some of the tubes contained chips dyed red. The students who were served tubes with chips dyed red ate 50 percent less than their peers. The researchers concluded that the red chips acted as unconscious “stop signs” that cut the number of chips consumed.  Geier et al., "Red potato chips: Segmentation cues can substantially decrease food intake", Health Psychology, July 24, 2012, © American Psychological Association

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