diet

What the body does need is fiber, a nutrient found in vegetables, whole grains, and legumes that helps regulate the bowel and lower blood cholesterol and glucose levels. Only about 5 percent of Americans get the recommended amount of daily fiber, which is about 30 grams a day.The enzyme Zya is developing comes from a family called inulosucrases, and is naturally made by a strain of bacteria found in the human microbiome that’s capable of converting sugar to fiber in the gut environment. This enzyme acts on sugar before it…

The consumption of ultra-processed foods is linked to an increase in non-communicable diseases, according to a study by Florida Atlantic University’s physicians. Highlighting the health risks of additives and the lack of clear definitions for ultra-processed foods, the study calls for healthcare professionals to encourage the consumption of whole foods and for public health initiatives to address the accessibility and affordability of healthier food options. Credit: Alex Dolce, Florida Atlantic UniversityFrom fizzy drinks…

Research from Tufts University indicates that women who consume more plant-based proteins are less likely to develop chronic diseases and maintain better health into older age. The study, analyzing data from over 48,000 women, highlights the benefits of plant proteins over animal proteins for heart health, mental health, and overall longevity, recommending a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, with some fish and animal protein for essential nutrients.A recent study led by Tufts University discovered that…

Our curated list of 10 kitchen weighing scales offers a variety of options that cater to every need, whether you're looking for advanced digital features, connectivity to nutrition apps, or simply a durable and straightforward device. These scales are chosen for their accuracy, ease of use, and ability to seamlessly integrate into your daily routine, making the task of monitoring your intake of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates simpler. By equipping your kitchen with one of…

Improving the health of the gut microbiome by way of fecal transplant (in mice) and dietary modification (in humans), has been shown by researchers to noticeably improve COPD symptoms. The finding could lead to microbiome-targeted treatments that provide relief to people suffering from this currently incurable condition.Most often caused by long-term cigarette smoking, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by inflammation and emphysema, leading to progressive impairment of lung function. Globally,…

A study indicates that consuming energy drinks is linked to poor sleep and insomnia among college students, with more frequent consumption leading to greater sleep disturbances. Reducing energy drink intake could improve sleep quality in this demographic.The more frequently they consume, the less sleep they get each night. However, even occasional consumption is associated with an increased risk of sleep disturbances.Consuming energy drinks is associated with lower sleep quality and insomnia in college students, according…

Scientists at Cambridge have found that fasting raises arachidonic acid levels in the blood, inhibiting inflammation and offering insights into the health benefits of fasting and the anti-inflammatory effects of drugs like aspirin on chronic diseases.Scientists at Cambridge may have uncovered a novel mechanism by which fasting can reduce inflammation – a potentially harmful consequence of the immune system’s activity that is at the root of several chronic illnesses.In research published in Cell Reports, the team describes…

Film-maker Jeanie Finlay paints a warm and generous portrait of a sympathetic subject: the American fat activist, podcaster and bestselling author Aubrey Gordon who became a viral sensation for her blog Your Fat Friend, in which she railed against the cruelty – sometimes unintentional and sometimes not – of people who can’t help deriding people like her. Her sprightly, witty, unrepentant arias of complaint earned her a fanbase that included Roxane Gay, James Corden and Adele. But it also got her trolling and vicious…

One in three Australian adults has high blood pressure (hypertension). Excess salt (sodium) increases the risk of high blood pressure so everyone with hypertension is advised to reduce salt in their diet.But despite decades of strong recommendations we have failed to get Australians to cut their intake. It's hard for people to change the way they cook, season their food differently, pick low-salt foods off the supermarket shelves and accept a less salty taste.Now there is a simple and effective solution:…

Recent research highlights a significant lack of awareness among young male gym-goers regarding the impact of their lifestyle, particularly protein supplement use, on fertility. The study underscores the need for better understanding and education about male reproductive health and the risks associated with certain gym supplements.Three out of four people would alter their exercise routines or supplement usage if they were aware of its long-term impacts.Many young men who frequent the gym are often not fully informed…