Drinking Wine Reduces Cardiovascular Risk – If You Exercise, Too August 31, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A study by Czech scientists finds that drinking wine does benefit the cardiovascular system, but only if it is accompanied by exercise. Earlier studies have provided evidence that wine increases levels of good cholesterol, but this study is the first long-term clinical trial – 146 people with cardiovascular risk were tracked as they drank red or white wine for a year -- comparing the effects of the wine on markers of atherosclerosis. The conclusion was that both red and white wine lowered cholesterol, but only among participants who also exercised. "Wine only protects against cardiovascular disease in people who exercise, study finds", News release, study presented at ESC Congress, August 31, 2014, © European Society of Cardiology

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Fitness & Exercise Heart & Cardiovascular Other Food & Nutrition Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe Czech Republic

Doctors Warn Of Dangers Of Some Chinese Herbal Potions August 28, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Physicians in Australia who saved the life of a woman who nearly died after ingesting a Chinese herbal preparation prescribed for back pain have issued a warning about nontraditional medications. A Chinese herbal medicine practitioner told the woman to boil a mixture of wolfsbane, and other plant and animal material containing aconite, prior to ingestion.  She was admitted to the emergency room after experiencing facial tingling and numbness, followed by nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain, and eventually severe cardiovascular toxicity. Both patients and physicians need to be aware of the potential dangers lurking in Chinese herbal preparations, the doctors stressed. Angelly Martinez et al., " Life-threatening cardiovascular toxicity following ingestion of Chinese herbal medicine. ", Emergency Medicine Australasia, August 28, 2014, © Australasian College for Emergency Medicine and Australasian Society for Emergency Medicine

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Food & Nutrition Pills & Supplements Geographies Worldwide Asia-Pacific Australia China

Nutrient-Enhancement Of Popular Regional Condiments Could Improve Global Health August 28, 2014: 12:00 AM EST The World Health Organization is working to upgrade the nutritional intake of people around the globe by enhancing the nutritional value of certain popular condiments. The program is modeled after successful nutrient-enhancing initiatives such as adding iodine to common table salt. The WHO hopes to enrich foods – soy sauce, for example, in Southeast Asia – with iron, vitamin A and other micronutrients. Deficiencies are a serious problem in the Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia, West Africa and Central America. The success of the nutrient enhancement program depends to a great extent on a supportive legal framework in individual countries, the researchers say. Luis A. Mejia et al., "Fortification of Condiments and Seasonings with Vitamins and Minerals in Public Health: From Proof of Concept to Scaling Up", News release, study to be published in the Annals of the New York Academy of Science, August 28, 2014, © University of Illinois

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Food & Nutrition Vitamins Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Physically Active Seniors Ward Off Deteriorating Effects Of Aging August 27, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Aging does not have to lead inevitably to deterioration of the body, according to a new U.S. research on senior athletes. Elite athletes aged 65 and over who regularly participate in fitness and nutrition routines minimize bone and joint health decline and have better overall physical health. That means fewer injuries such as sprains, strains and fractures, less obesity, diabetes and osteoarthritis. The researchers recommend that older adults participate in prolonged, intense resistance training; moderately intensive aerobic training; flexibility training that includes sustained stretching; and proper nutrition that includes daily protein. B. G. Vopat et al., "The Effects of Fitness on the Aging Process. ", Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, August 27, 2014, © American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Aging Bones & Joints Fitness & Exercise Heart & Cardiovascular Other Food & Nutrition Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Taxing Sugary Drinks Has Best Chance Of Reducing Adolescent Obesity August 27, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Levying federal taxes on sugary drinks would help reduce adolescent obesity in the U.S. more than exercising or banning advertising, according to a study that applied simulation models to 12 years of anti-obesity research data. The significant revenue raised by such taxes could be applied to additional obesity prevention programs. Though more and more states are using laws and regulations to promote healthier eating and exercise, federal taxation would reach larger populations. After school physical activity programs would reduce obesity the most among children ages 6-12; an advertising ban would reduce obesity the least. An excise tax on sugary beverages would reduce obesity the most among adolescents ages 13-18. Alyson H. Kristensen et al., "Reducing Childhood Obesity through U.S. Federal Policy. ", American Journal of Preventive Medicine, August 27, 2014, © American Journal of Preventive Medicine

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Kid's Health Pre-School/School Teen Dieting & Weight Control Other Food & Nutrition Obesity Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Eating Lycopene-Rich Tomatoes Cuts Risk Of Prostate Cancer August 27, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A British study that analyzed the diets of 1,806 men aged 50 to 69 with prostate cancer and 12,000 men who were cancer free found that those who ate 10 portions of tomatoes a week were 18 percent less likely to have the dreaded disease. The researchers believe the benefit comes from ingesting lycopene -- an antioxidant that wards off toxins that damage DNA -- as well as calcium and selenium. They recommended that the findings be confirmed by clinical trials. V. Er et al., "Adherence to dietary and lifestyle recommendations and prostate cancer risk in the Prostate Testing for Cancer and Treatment (ProtecT) trial. ", Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention, August 27, 2014, © American Association for Cancer Research

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Men's Health Prostate Preventative Care Other Food & Nutrition Cancer & Cancer Prevention Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom

TV Food Ads Contribute To Dysfunctional Eating Patterns August 27, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A study based on two experiments found that TV ads featuring food increased the desire to eat among overweight female participants, but not among normal weight participants. In the first experiment, participants with normal BMI watched TV ads about food and non-food products, then recorded their desire to eat. Participants reported low desire to eat across the board. The second experiment had the same format, but involved overweight participants, who reported stronger desire to eat than those in their control group. The Australian researchers hope further study will lead to methods of helping dysfunctional eaters by training them to avoid food in response to food cues. Eva Kemps et al., " Exposure to television food advertising primes food-related cognitions and triggers motivation to eat. ", Psychology & Health, August 27, 2014, © Taylor & Francis

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Women's Health Other Women's Health Dieting & Weight Control Obesity Geographies Worldwide Asia-Pacific Australia

Why Dogs And Owners Often Miss Out On The Benefits Of Walking August 26, 2014: 12:00 AM EST People and their pet dogs would benefit greatly if there were more access to dog-friendly walking environments and better education about dogs’ physical needs, according to a review of international scientific papers by British scientists. In the U.K., a quarter of households own dogs, but as many as 40 percent of dog owners do not regularly walk their dog. Two key problems were found in the 31 studies surveyed: dog owners often are unaware of how much exercise a dog should get; and pet owners often lacked access to parks where dogs were allowed off-leash and waste-disposal facilities were provided. The result is that both pets and their owners miss out on the health benefits of dog walking. Carri Westgarth et al., "How might we increase physical activity through dog walking?: A comprehensive review of dog walking correlates. ", International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, August 26, 2014, © BioMed Central Ltd

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Fitness & Exercise Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom

Eating Gluten-Free? Avoid This Wheat Replacement Ingredient, FDA Warns August 25, 2014: 12:00 AM EST The U.S. FDA has issued an alert warning people on gluten-free diets to avoid an increasingly popular food ingredient known as lupin. A legume from the same plant family as peanuts, lupin is used as a replacement for wheat in an increasing number of gluten-free products. Food manufacturers are required to list lupin on the food label. The FDA is urging consumers with peanut and soybean allergies to read labels because of the risk of allergic reactions. Symptoms include hives, swelling of the lips, vomiting, breathing difficulties and anaphylactic shock. Even people without allergies to legume products should be aware of the ingredient. Karen Blakeslee, "New gluten-free ingredient may cause allergic reaction", News release, Kansas State University, August 25, 2014, © Kansas State University

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Digestive Other Food & Nutrition Asthma & Allergies Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Bread Is Not A Brain Food, Neurologist Warns August 25, 2014: 12:00 AM EST The neurologist author of “Grain Brain” says most if not all of America’s problems with Alzheimer’s and dementia in general are due to over-consumption of carbs, particularly from grain-based products like bread. David Perlmutter advocates eating more fat, and many fewer carbs (60 to 80 grams a day), basically a return to prehistoric times when people ate a high-fat, low-carb, gluten-free diet. He points to recent studies showing that the risk of dementia is 42 percent lower in people who eat more fat and fewer carbs. The rise in blood sugar caused by eating carbohydrates increases the risk of dementia, so type 2 diabetics are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s as the general population. "Grain Brain May Be Killing Us!", Ivanhoe Newswire, August 25, 2014, © Ivanhoe Newswire

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Brain Other Food & Nutrition Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Exercise Maintains Blood Vessel Elasticity That Keeps Heart, Brain Healthy August 25, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Physical activity is not only good for the aging heart, it is good for the brain, Canadian scientists report. The study tested the fitness 31 healthy young people (18 to 30) and 54 healthy older participants (55 to 75).  Both overall fitness and cognitive health were tested using standards measurement techniques. It was found that older adults whose aortas were in better condition and who had greater aerobic fitness performed better on a cognitive test. The researchers concluded that the preservation of blood vessel elasticity is one of the mechanisms that enables exercise to slow cognitive aging. C.J. Gauthier et al., "Hearts and minds: linking vascular rigidity and aerobic fitness with cognitive aging. ", Neurobiology of Aging, August 25, 2014, © Elsevier Inc.

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Mind Mental Alertness Brain Fitness & Exercise Heart & Cardiovascular Geographies Worldwide North America Canada

Smartphone Exercise Games Are Popular, But Do They Work In The Long Run? August 22, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A growing number of smartphone apps use games to motivate people to exercise, according to a new U.S. study. The apps are premised on the belief that ”gamification” works better than general health and fitness apps – of which there are 31,000 – at getting people to work out. The most common forms of motivation in the apps centered on social or peer pressure (45 percent), digital rewards (24 percent), competitions (18 percent), and leader boards (14 percent). But, the researchers ask, do these fun and engaging apps sustain major changes in healthy behavior? More research is needed, they say, in an industry projected to be worth $2.8 billion in a couple of years. Cameron Lister et al., "Just a Fad? Gamification in Health and Fitness Apps. ", Journal of Medical Internet Research, August 22, 2014, © Lister et al.

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Dieting & Weight Control Fitness & Exercise Obesity Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Enough Testing Already, People Need To Boost Their Blood Vitamin D Levels August 21, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Two anesthesiologists writing about a recent observational study say patients who are not deficient in vitamin D are less likely to suffer from complications after surgery. They argue that physicians needn’t wait any longer for evidence of the risk of being vitamin D deficient. There’s enough evidence accumulated – a “cornucopia of improved health outcomes” –  for physicians to advise patients to boost their vitamin D levels. While further testing of the impact of vitamin D supplements on surgical complications would be okay, they say, patients shouldn't wait for the results of clinical trials before taking "reasonable" steps to ensure adequate vitamin D levels. Michael F Roizen & Jeffrey D. Roizen, "Vitamin D and Your Patients. ", Anesthesia & Analgesia, August 21, 2014, © International Anesthesia Research Society

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Heart & Cardiovascular Preventative Care Vitamins Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Type 2 Diabetics Who Lose Weight Also Reduce Healthcare Costs August 21, 2014: 12:00 AM EST U.S. researchers have put a price tag – more than $500 a year in healthcare savings – on weight loss among people with type 2 diabetes. In an evaluation of more than 5,000 obese and overweight adults (45 to 76 years old) who participated in an NIH-sponsored diabetes initiative, the researchers found that people involved in intensive lifestyle changes – dieting and exercise – that led to weight loss had 11 percent fewer hospitalizations,15 percent shorter hospital stays, and used fewer prescription drugs. These benefits translated to an average saving of $5,280 per person in healthcare costs over 10 years, or $528 a year. Mark A. Espeland et al., "Impact of an Intensive Lifestyle Intervention on Use and Cost of Medical Services Among Overweight and Obese Adults With Type 2 Diabetes: The Action for Health in Diabetes. ", Diabetes Care, August 21, 2014, © American Diabetes Association

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Dieting & Weight Control Fitness & Exercise Diabetes Obesity Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Blood Test For Dietary Biomarkers Will Make Future Studies More Reliable August 21, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A new form of blood test that measures diet-related biomarkers is more accurate in determining dietary compliance than relying on participant questionnaires, according to a multinational team of Scandinavian researchers. Self-reported dietary data are biased and not reliable, making it difficult to tell whether a specific diet is actually working. Dietary biomarkers are compounds related to certain foods or nutrients that are measurable in bodily tissues and fluids, such as blood. In the Nordic SYSDIET study, for example, participants were supposed to eat berries, vegetables, fatty fish, canola oil, and whole grains. The researchers found that several blood biomarkers showed whether the key dietary components were actually being consumed. M. Marklund et al., "A Dietary Biomarker Approach Captures Compliance and Cardiometabolic Effects of a Healthy Nordic Diet in Individuals with Metabolic Syndrome. ", Journal of Nutrition, August 21, 2014, © American Society for Nutrition

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Dieting & Weight Control Diabetes Obesity Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe Denmark Finland Sweden

Lower-Income Americans May Not Be Getting The Message On Effective Weight Loss Methods August 19, 2014: 12:00 AM EST One obvious reason lower-income people struggle more with weight problems and obesity is that they simply can’t afford diet programs, special meals or gym memberships. But that’s not the only reason. According to a new U.S. study that analyzed data on 8,800 Americans, poor people are also less likely to do things that cost almost nothing to help control their weight, like exercise, drink water or reduce fat and sugar consumption. Instead, they turn to quick-fix weight loss methods, like diet pills – a counterproductive solution in the long run. On the macro level, choosing the quickest possible fix has done nothing to reduce obesity levels in the U.S.. Lisa Kakinami et al., "Trying to Lose Weight. ", American Journal of Preventive Medicine, August 19, 2014, © American Journal of Preventive Medicine

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Dieting & Weight Control Fitness & Exercise Other Food & Nutrition Diabetes Obesity Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Studies Seek Root Causes Of Obesity In U.S. August 19, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A new $5 million study being conducted at NIH is designed to find out whether we get fat because we overeat or because of the foods we are eating. The Energy Balance Consortium Study is one of the first to be backed by a nonprofit whose goal is to finance meticulous tests of previously overlooked hypotheses. The Nutrition Science Initiative (or NuSI) is sponsoring three studies focused on the root causes of obesity and its related diseases. NuSI has hopes to raise $190 million over three years to fund follow-on studies whose overall goal is to cut obesity in the U.S. by more than half — and diabetes by 75 percent — in less than 15 years. Sam Apple, "Why Are We So Fat? The Multimillion-Dollar Scientific Quest to Find Out", Wired, August 19, 2014, © Condé Nast

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Dieting & Weight Control Other Food & Nutrition Diabetes Obesity Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

In-Home Care Giving Offers Rewards, Drawbacks August 19, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A survey of in-home caregivers sponsored by the Clorox Company finds that most feel rewarded spiritually by their responsibilities, but also feel tired, frustrated and overwhelmed. Sixty-six million Americans attend to the needs of loved ones in their homes. Their selfless work can be rewarding: ninety-five percent feel needed, 93 percent feel thankful, 91 percent appreciated and 88 percent important. But caregiving also takes a toll: caregivers often feel alone (53 percent) in their struggles. Fifty-nine percent report feeling helpless, isolated (54 percent), and confused (54 percent). Twenty-one percent of caregivers spend more than 40 hours a week caring for a loved one. "A New Survey of In-Home Family Caregivers Reveals Challenges and Rewards of Caregiving", News release, Clorox, August 19, 2014, © The Clorox Company

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Mind Depression Happiness & Contentment Aging Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

New Sensor-Packed Cup Helps You Keep Track Of Beverage Calories, Nutrients August 19, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A small company has developed a drinking cup packed with sophisticated sensors that can detect the level of certain nutrients in beverages, and then report the calorie content. Vessyl, designed to be used at home or work, displays the type of beverage poured into the cup (i.e., coffee, beer, etc.), the calorie count, and other details, like protein and sugar content. The idea, according to Mark One CEO Justin Lee, is to keep you aware of what you’re ingesting. "If you track what you consume, the likelihood of you achieving your health goal is much higher." A promotional version of Vessyl is available at $99 until next year, when the price will more than double. Ben Schiller, "This Cup Tells You How Many Calories You're Drinking", Fast Company, August 19, 2014, © Mansueto Ventures, LLC.

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Dieting & Weight Control Other Food & Nutrition Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Aerobic Fitness Benefits Children’s Brains In Several Ways, Study Finds August 19, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A U.S. study that used diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to analyze brain tissue in nine- to 10-year-old children found that those who did more aerobic exercising had more fibrous and compact white-matter tracts in the brain associated with attention and memory. White matter tracts carry nerve signals from one brain region to another. Previous studies showed that aerobic exercise leads to greater volumes of gray matter in children’s brains associated with memory and learning. The researchers are now studying whether children benefit from beginning a new aerobic fitness program and maintain it over time. Laura Chaddock-Heyman et al., "Aerobic fitness is associated with greater white matter integrity in children. ", Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, August 19, 2014, © Chaddock-Heyman et al.

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Kid's Health Mind Pre-School/School Mental Alertness Brain Fitness & Exercise Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Do Glycan Creams Provide A Therapy For Aging Skin? August 18, 2014: 12:00 AM EST The level of glycans – sugars like glucose found on the surface of cells – tends to drop as a person ages. When that happens to skin cells, according to one researcher, they do not recognize or communicate with one another as vigorously as in youth. The result, at least theoretically, is that aging skin doesn't heal as well or make collagen as readily as it once did. A possible solution? Glycan creams. Though the research is still in its infancy, and there are more proven treatments out there such as retinoids, glycans might hold the secret not just to aging of the skin, but to preventing and treating cancer and infections as well as skin conditions. Zoe Draelos, "New glycan creams, micronutrient creams hold promise for reducing signs of aging skin ", News release, American Academy of Dermatology, August 18, 2014, © American Academy of Dermatology

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Aging Alternative Therapies Skin Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

High-Intensity Interval Training Is Safe, Effective For Heart Transplant Patients August 18, 2014: 12:00 AM EST People who have undergone a heart transplant can safely do high-intensity exercise, according to a 12-week Danish study of 16 patients who had been living with a new heart for at least a year. The study tested the effects of high-intensity interval training – exercising for a few minutes at close to the maximum heart rate – versus moderate training. Researchers found that high-intensity interval training is not only safe for heart transplant patients, the effect on exercise capacity and blood pressure control is much better than moderate intensity training. Christian H. Dall et al., "Effect of High-Intensity Training Versus Moderate Training on Peak Oxygen Uptake and Chronotropic Response in Heart Transplant Recipients: A Randomized Crossover Trial. ", American Journal of Transplantation, August 18, 2014, © The American Society of Transplantation and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Fitness & Exercise Heart & Cardiovascular Other Conditions Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe Denmark

South Korea Okays Vaginal Health Claim For Probiotic Supplement August 14, 2014: 12:00 AM EST The South Korean FDA has approved the vaginal health claim of Chr. Hansen’s Urex probiotic dietary supplement. The approval means Hansen customers in the country can make the claim on product packaging and in promotional material that “Urex can help vaginal health by increasing lactic acid bacteria”. Urex contains Chr. Hansen's Probio-Tec strains RC-14 and GR-1. The company says it is spending significant resources on securing official validation of the scientific documentation behind its probiotics. The Korean FDA’s recognition of the health benefits of RC-14 and GR-1 “works as motivational tailwind in this process”, according to a company spokesman. "Chr. Hansen gets probiotic health claim in Korea", News release, Chr. Hansen, August 14, 2014, © Chr. Hansen A/S

Domains Food & Nutrition Geographies Worldwide Asia-Pacific South Korea

Researchers Warn Of Health Risks Of Eating Too Much Instant Noodles August 14, 2014: 12:00 AM EST U.S. researchers who analyzed the health and diet of 11,000 South Korean adults found that women who ate ramen instant noodles twice a week or more were at higher risk for metabolic syndrome, a set of symptoms that precedes diabetes. No such association was found among men, perhaps because of the effect of sex hormones and metabolism. The reason for the link to metabolic syndrome appears to be the high levels of fat, salt, and calories in the noodles, the researchers said. “The piece to keep in mind is that it's not a healthy product, and it is a processed food." Jillian Rose Lim, "Instant Noodles Could Hurt Your Heart", Live Science, August 14, 2014, © LiveScience, a TechMediaNetwork company.

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Heart & Cardiovascular Other Food & Nutrition Geographies Worldwide North America Asia-Pacific United States of America South Korea

Middle-Age Drinkers Much More Likely To Suffer Memory Impairment As They Age August 13, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A new British study sheds light on the previously unknown link between harmful drinking patterns and later-life memory and dementia issues. The researchers analyzed NIH data collected on 6,542 adults born between 1931 and 1941. They were assessed in 1992, then yearly from 1996 to 2010. They  found that middle-aged adults who were heavy drinkers had double the risk of severe memory impairment later in life. The authors suggested that much more research needs to be done on this “public health issue that needs to be addressed”. Elżbieta Kuźma et al., "History of Alcohol Use Disorders and Risk of Severe Cognitive Impairment: A 19-Year Prospective Cohort Study", American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry, August 13, 2014, © Kuźma et al.

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Mind Mental Alertness Aging Brain Other Food & Nutrition Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom

Exercise Is Great For Heart Patients – Up To A Point August 12, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Researchers in the U.S. who conducted a long-term study of the impact of regular physical activity on 2,400 cardiovascular patients found that heart-related deaths dropped 65 percent when patients ran up to 30 miles a week or walked up to 46 miles a week. But beyond that, the benefit of exercise was lost, and the risk of death increased,  in what is described as a reverse J-curve pattern. “The benefits of running or walking do not accrue indefinitely and that above some level, there is a significant increase in risk,” the researchers said. They noted that competitive running events seem to increase the risk of an “acute event”. Paul T. Williams & Paul D. Thompson, "Increased Cardiovascular Disease Mortality Associated With Excessive Exercise in Heart Attack Survivors. ", Mayo Clinic Proceedings, August 12, 2014, © Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Fitness & Exercise Heart & Cardiovascular Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

USDA Says Nuts Can Be Processed To Make Them Less Allergenic August 11, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A USDA scientist says he and his colleagues are developing a technology to process cashews and other nuts that will render them safer for people with nut allergies to eat them. Current clinical trials are testing ways to help nut-allergic people avoid severe immune reactions. But the USDA plan is to come up with an “agricultural” solution to the problem. The basic idea is to modify proteins in tree nuts and peanuts (which are legumes) that trigger an immune response in people who are allergic. They have tested the safe compound sulfite, finding that it can effectively disrupt the structure of a couple of the cashew allergens. Chris Mattison, "Making cashews safer for those with allergies", News release, American Chemical Society, August 11, 2014, © American Chemical Society

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Digestive Other Food & Nutrition Asthma & Allergies Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Indifference To Brown Rice Puts Malaysians At Greater Risk For Diabetes August 9, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Healthier alternatives to white rice – namely, brown rice, low-carb noodles, etc. – have not caught on in Malaysia and other Asia-Pacific countries, intensifying the risk of obesity and diabetes in the region. A study published in May reported that 48.6 percent of Malaysian women and 43.8 percent of men are either overweight or obese, thanks mainly to a diet based heavily on white rice in the “most obese” country in Asia. Malaysian health officials are urging their countrymen to break the white rice habit. But it’s an uphill battle: Euromonitor sees almost no market in the country for more healthful brown rice. Simone Baroke, "White Rice Exacerbates Diabetes Threat in Asia Pacific", Euromonitor International, August 09, 2014, © Euromonitor International

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Conditions Food & Nutrition Other Food & Nutrition Diabetes Obesity Geographies Worldwide Asia-Pacific Malaysia

Study Concludes That Low-Carb Diet Is Best For Diabetics August 7, 2014: 12:00 AM EST People with type 1 and type 2 diabetes would benefit greatly from following a diet that is low in carbohydrates, according to a new U.S. study. The researchers said low-fat diets do not improve obesity, cardiovascular risk or general health, and there have been persistent reports of serious side effects of commonly prescribed diabetes medications. The research found that: caloric increases linked to type 1 and type 2 diabetes have been due almost entirely to increased carbohydrate consumption; carb restriction works the best at decreasing blood glucose levels; and the benefits of carb restriction do not require weight loss – but no dietary intervention works better for losing weight. Richard David Feinman et al., "Dietary Carbohydrate restriction as the first approach in diabetes management. Critical review and evidence base. ", Nutrition, August 07, 2014, © Feinman et al.

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Dieting & Weight Control Low-Carb Diabetes Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

College-Related Debt Takes A Heavy Toll On Graduates August 7, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Debt-ridden college graduates are much less likely to live happy financial and physical lives, according to a Gallup study. Gallup noted that debt-free students were only slightly more likely than indebted graduates to thrive socially, but were much more likely to thrive in four other elements of well-being, including purpose, financially, community and physically. Graduates who were the deepest in debt -- $50,000 or more – were far less likely to thrive than graduates who took out no loans, by 15 percentage points in financial well-being and 10 points in physical well-being. Andrew Dugan et al, "Student Debt Linked to Worse Health and Less Wealth", Report, Gallup, August 07, 2014, © Gallup, Inc.

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Food & Nutrition Mind Happiness & Contentment Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Study Examines Mental Health Issues Associated With Weight Loss August 7, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A British study of nearly 2,000 people aged 50 or over found that losing weight doesn’t always improve a person’s mood. The researchers acknowledge that depression and weight gain can have the same root cause, and weight loss certainly does not cause depression. But they found that people who had lost five percent or more of their body weight over four years were physically healthier, but were more depressed than those who stayed closer to their original weight. After controlling for factors like health issues and serious life issues (e.g., bereavement), the increased odds of depression after at least five percent weight loss remained a significant 52 percent. Sarah E. Jackson et al., "Psychological Changes following Weight Loss in Overweight and Obese Adults: A Prospective Cohort Study. ", PLoS ONE, August 07, 2014, © Jackson et al.

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Mind Depression Dieting & Weight Control Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom

Restaurant Dining Is Not Good For Your Health August 7, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A U.S. study involving data from 12,000 questionnaire respondents (ages 20 to 64) found that eating out is generally an unhealthy dietary decision. People who ate at fast-food restaurants consumed 195 extra calories, 3.5 more grams of saturated fat, four more grams of sugar and an extra 296 mg of sodium. Those who ate at full-service restaurants took didn’t fare much better, consuming 205 extra calories, 2.5 more grams of saturated fat and 451 extra milligrams of sodium. Black adults tended to eat more calories than whites or Hispanics, and middle-income adults consumed more than high-income adults. Binh T Nguyen et al., "The impact of restaurant consumption among US adults: effects on energy and nutrient intakes. ", Public Health Nutrition, August 07, 2014, © Nguyen et al.

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Dieting & Weight Control Heart & Cardiovascular Other Food & Nutrition Diabetes Obesity Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Sunscreen Pills Not Nearly As Effective As Protective Clothing, Conventional Sunscreens August 7, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A number of different sunscreen options that protect skin from the damaging effects of ultraviolet rays have been available for many years, including sprays, sticks and lotions. Now some new options – pills, ingestible liquids and UV monitoring bracelets – are available. But do pills really work? Board-certified dermatologist Henry Lim says wearing protective clothing and using a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 still provide the best protection. Studies comparing the level of protection provided by pills containing Polypodium leucotomos -- an extract of a Central American fern -- show the pill provides an SPF of 3 to 5, far less than a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Henry W. Lim, "Could protecting your skin from sun be as easy as popping a pill?", News release, American Academy of Dermatology, August 07, 2014, © American Academy of Dermatology

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Preventative Care Skin Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Pistachios Improve Cardiovascular Health Among Type 2 Diabetics August 5, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Pistachios are rich in fiber, potassium and antioxidants, and they are high in fat, but they are healthful fats, and may help type 2 diabetics keep their blood pressure under control, according to a study by Penn State researchers. The study compared isocaloric diets, one of which included 150 pistachios a day. Participants alternated between the diets, and measurements of stress responses were taken. With the pistachio diet, blood vessels remained more relaxed and open during the stress tests. Measures of blood pressure were significantly lower after the pistachio diet. Average sleep blood pressure was reduced by about four points, lowering workload on the heart. K. A. Sauder et al., "Pistachio Nut Consumption Modifies Systemic Hemodynamics, Increases Heart Rate Variability, and Reduces Ambulatory Blood Pressure in Well-Controlled Type 2 Diabetes: a Randomized Trial. ", Journal of the American Heart Association, August 05, 2014, © Sauder et al.

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Dieting & Weight Control Heart & Cardiovascular Other Food & Nutrition Diabetes Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Interval Walking By Diabetics Improves Glucose Metabolism August 4, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Type 2 diabetics would better manage their blood sugar levels if they did interval walking – alternating speeds during a walk – rather than constant-speed walking, according to Danish research. Diabetics in the study were divided into three groups: a control, an interval-walking group, and a continuous-walking group. The researchers found that blood sugar control improved significantly in the interval-walking group only, probably because of improved glucose metabolism. No changes occurred in the continuous-walking or control groups. Kristian Karstoft et al. , "Mechanisms behind the superior effects of interval vs. continuous training on glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled trial. ", Diabetologia, August 04, 2014, © Springer Berlin Heidelberg

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Fitness & Exercise Diabetes Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe Denmark

Diet Is Only One Factor Contributing To Brain Health August 4, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Lifestyle factors may be more important for brain health than specific food ingredients, a U.S. study has found. The data indicated that people who ate baked or broiled fish at least once a week had greater grey matter brain volumes in areas of the brain responsible for memory (4.3 percent) and cognition (14 percent) and were more likely to have a college education than those who didn't eat fish regularly. Whether the fish was rich in omega 3 fatty acids didn't seem to matter. The researchers concluded that they may have tapped into a general set of lifestyle factors affecting brain health, only one of which is diet. Cyrus A. Raji et al., "Regular Fish Consumption and Age-Related Brain Gray Matter Loss. ", American Journal of Preventive Medicine, August 04, 2014, © American Journal of Preventive Medicine

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Mind Mental Alertness Brain Other Food & Nutrition Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Resistant Starch Reduces Colorectal Cancer Risk Of Red Meat Diet August 4, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Researchers in Australia report that resistant starches – e.g., slightly green bananas, cooked and cooled potatoes, whole grains, beans, chickpeas, lentils, etc. – reduce the risk of colorectal cancer in people whose diet is rich in red meat. Participants in the study ate 300 g of lean red meat a day for four weeks. Levels of certain genetic molecules increased by 30 percent along with an increase in cell proliferation. For another four weeks they ate 40 g of butyrated resistant starch each day with the red meat. Levels of the molecules returned to normal. Resistant starches are not digested in the stomach and small intestine, but pass through to the colon where they act like fiber. K. J. Humphreys et al., "Dietary Manipulation of Oncogenic MicroRNA Expression in Human Rectal Mucosa: A Randomized Trial. ", Cancer Prevention Research, August 04, 2014, © American Association for Cancer Research

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Preventative Care Other Food & Nutrition Cancer & Cancer Prevention Geographies Worldwide Asia-Pacific Australia

Probiotics May Help Slow Accumulation Of Fat In The Liver August 2, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Spanish researchers have discovered in animal studies an intriguing connection between probiotics and fat accumulation in the liver (steatosis), a symptom of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease associated with obesity and diabetes. Probiotics are living or nonliving microorganisms (bacteria or yeasts) that exert healthful effects on individuals who consume them in adequate doses. The three strains tested have all been shown to be safe for humans. The obese animals ingested probiotics for 30 days, after which lower values of pro-inflammatory molecules were found in the animals’ blood, an indication of diminished fat accumulation in the liver. Julio Plaza-Diaz et al., "Effects of Lactobacillus paracasei CNCM I-4034, Bifidobacterium breve CNCM I-4035 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus CNCM I-4036 on Hepatic Steatosis in Zucker Rats. ", PLoS ONE, August 02, 2014, © Plaza-Diaz et al.

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Alternative Therapies Digestive Other Food & Nutrition Diabetes Obesity Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe Spain

Analysis Finds That Some Weight Loss Programs And Pills Are Much More Cost-Effective August 2, 2014: 12:00 AM EST As insurance companies consider covering commercial diet plans and weight loss drugs, U.S. researchers who studied three of each found that some are more cost-effective than others. The Weight Watchers plan and the drug Qsymia offer the most weight loss bang for the buck. People on the Jenny Craig program lost the most weight, but Jenny Craig was the most expensive of the plans tested. Other programs/pills that met the criteria for inclusion in the analysis were Vtrim, and the drugs Lorcaserin and Orlistat. Weight Watchers is the cheapest intervention, costing an average of $377 a year. Jenny Craig cost more than $2,500. Annual costs for the diet pills are $1,743 for Lorcaserin; $1,518 for Orlistat; and $1,336 for Qsymia. Eric A. Finkelstein & Eliza Kruger, "Meta- and cost-effectiveness analysis of commercial weight loss strategies. ", Obesity, August 02, 2014, © The Obesity Society

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Dieting & Weight Control Pills & Supplements Obesity Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Scientists Find A Natural Way To Kill Deadly Foodborne Pathogens August 2, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Washington State University scientists who tested the impact of a common cooking spice on dangerous bacteria may have found a natural way to prevent at least some foodborne illnesses. In the study, Cinnmomum cassia (cinnamon) oil in low concentrations destroyed the top six strains of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli bacteria. Ten drops of the oil diluted in a liter of water killed the bacteria within 24 hours. The researchers said the oil can be incorporated into films and coatings for packaging both meat and fresh produce, and can be added into the washing step of meat, fruits or vegetables to eliminate microorganisms. Lina Sheng & Mei-Jun Zhu, "Inhibitory effect of Cinnamomum cassia oil on non-O157 Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli. ", Food Control, August 02, 2014, © Elsevier B.V.

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Food & Nutrition Safety Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Vitamin D Deficiency Linked To Schizophrenia August 2, 2014: 12:00 AM EST As evidence of the adverse health effects of vitamin D deficiency mounts, researchers in Iran have added a psychiatric impact. People who are vitamin D deficient are twice as likely to be diagnosed with schizophrenia as people with normal levels. The researchers analyzed findings of 19 observational studies on vitamin D and schizophrenia, finding that vitamin D deficiency is “quite common” among schizophrenics: people with low vitamin D were 2.16 times more likely to have schizophrenia than those with sufficient vitamin D. Sixty-five percent of study participants who had schizophrenia were also vitamin D deficient. Ghazaleh Valipour et al., "Serum Vitamin D Levels in Relation to Schizophrenia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies. ", The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, August 02, 2014, © Endocrine Society

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Mind Other Mind Brain Vitamins Geographies Worldwide EMEA Middle East- Africa Iran

Social Anxiety Disorder May Be Treatable With Lifestyle Changes August 2, 2014: 12:00 AM EST People who view the world around them as threatening suffer from anxiety disorders, including post-traumatic stress, obsessive-compulsive, and panic disorders. They are usually treated with medications or psychotherapy. But new Canadian research shows that exercise and relaxation activities can change the way people perceive the world so that they find it less threatening and less negative. For the study, participants diagnosed with anxiety disorders who either walked or jogged on a treadmill for ten minutes, or performed progressive muscle relaxation (yoga), focused less on anxiety-inducing things, breaking the cycle of anxiety-fostering behavior. Adam Heenan & Nikolaus F. Troje, "Both Physical Exercise and Progressive Muscle Relaxation Reduce the Facing-the-Viewer Bias in Biological Motion Perception. ", PLoS ONE, August 02, 2014, © Heenan, Troje

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Mind Depression Sleep & Relaxation Stress Management Fitness & Exercise Geographies Worldwide North America Canada

Researchers Need To Focus On The Molecular Causes Of Age-Related Diseases August 2, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A group of U.S. scientists recommends that the healthcare industry should devote more energy to discovering the underlying molecular roots of human aging to help prevent – not just treat – chronic disease and lengthen life spans. Besides eating a healthful diet and getting plenty of exercise, strategies may include slowing the metabolic and molecular causes of aging, especially the incremental accumulation of cellular damage that occurs over time, causing heart failure, diabetes, arthritis, cancer, Alzheimer’s, etc. Studies of diet, genes and drugs indicate that interventions targeted to specific molecular pathways that delay one age-related disease often ward off others as well. Luigi Fontana et al., "Medical research: Treat aging. ", Nature, August 02, 2014, © Nature Publishing Group

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Mind Mental Alertness Aging Alternative Therapies Dieting & Weight Control Fitness & Exercise Heart & Cardiovascular Diabetes Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Federal Nutrition Standards Raise Havoc In School Fundraising World August 1, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A federal anti-obesity law that takes effect this fall will put a crimp in school fundraising efforts like bake sales and candy sales. The sales must adhere to nutrition requirements meant to lower calorie, fat, sugar and salt consumption by schoolchildren. The rules govern food and beverages sold during the school day in vending machines, snack carts and daytime fundraisers. "Infrequent" fundraisers are okay, and states can decide themselves how many questionable bake sales would be allowed. School administrators, parents and others worry that the well-meaning federal standards will not only hurt fundraising, they will push schools to sell more processed-food products to raise money. Stephanie Armour, "Put Down the Cupcake: New Ban Hits School Bake Sales", The Wall Street Journal, August 01, 2014, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc.

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Food & Nutrition Kid's Health Pre-School/School Teen Other Food & Nutrition Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Researchers Find Common Blood Factor Linked To Diabetes, Gum Disease July 31, 2014: 12:00 AM EST U.S. researchers have identified the inflammatory factors – blood cells involved in human immune response – shared by type 2 diabetes and periodontal disease. So-called B cells were shown to promote inflammation and bone loss in type 2 diabetes-associated gum disease. The researchers suggested that treatments that manipulate the responses of B cells may treat or prevent the problem. B cell-targeting drugs are already available to treat B cell cancers. M. Zhu et al., "B cells promote obesity-associated periodontitis and oral pathogen-associated inflammation. ", Journal of Leukocyte Biology, July 31, 2014, © Society for Leukocyte Biology

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Digestive Oral Diabetes Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Caffeine Detector For Beverages Could Help Prevent Dangerous Overdoses July 30, 2014: 12:00 AM EST With the introduction of new caffeine-rich beverages and foods reaching flood stage, the risk of caffeine overdosing has increased as well. Caffeine is normally well tolerated, but in excessive doses it can lead to insomnia, hallucinations, vitamin deficiency, several types of cancer, and even death. Now U.S. scientists report progress in developing a rapid, in-home test to detect even low levels in beverages. An enzyme called caffeine dehydrogenase can detect caffeine in a variety of drinks – with the exception of teas – in one minute, in concentrations as low as 1 to 5 parts per million. Sujit K. Mohanty et al., "Validation of Caffeine Dehydrogenase from Pseudomonassp. Strain CBB1 as a Suitable Enzyme for a Rapid Caffeine Detection and Potential Diagnostic Test. ", Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, July 30, 2014, © American Chemical Society

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Mind Mental Alertness Energy Other Food & Nutrition Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Nutrients In Dairy Products Help Preserve Bone, Muscle In Aging Population July 28, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A study by scientists in North America and Europe finds four nutrients found in dairy products are especially beneficial in preserving bone and skeletal muscle. Calcium, inorganic phosphate, vitamin D, and protein interact with each other through cellular and physiological pathways. The nutrients are abundant in dairy foods, which should be an important dietary component, especially among the aging population. Combining the four nutrients with physical activity decreases the likelihood of bone and muscle degeneration-related injury in older adults, the researchers said. Jean-Philippe Bonjour et al., "Dairy in Adulthood: From Foods to Nutrient Interactions on Bone and Skeletal Muscle Health. ", Journal of the American College of Nutrition, July 28, 2014, © Bonjour et al.

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Bones & Joints Other Food & Nutrition Vitamins Other Conditions Geographies Worldwide North America EMEA Europe

Even A Little Time Spent Running Has Significant Health Benefits July 28, 2014: 12:00 AM EST U.S. researchers who studied 55,137 adults between the ages of 18 and 100 over 15 years found that, compared to non-runners, runners – even those who run for only a few minutes a day – had a 30 percent lower risk of death from all causes and a 45 percent lower risk of death from heart disease or stroke. On average, runners also lived three years longer than non-runners. From a public health perspective, promoting running is as important as preventing smoking, obesity or hypertension. They also noted that the benefits of running can come from only five to 10 minutes a day rather than the recommended15 to 20 minutes (or more) a day that many find too time-consuming. Duck-chul Lee et al., "Leisure-Time Running Reduces All-Cause and Cardiovascular Mortality Risk. ", Journal of the American College of Cardiology, July 28, 2014, © American College of Cardiology Foundation

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Fitness & Exercise Heart & Cardiovascular Other Conditions Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Cons Of Gluten-Free Diet – If You Do Not Have Celiac Disease July 27, 2014: 12:00 AM EST For people diagnosed with celiac disease, staying away from gluten is the only way to avoid the often painful allergic reaction. But many people without the disease have gone gluten-free for a variety of reasons, including weight loss. Nutritionist Juliette Kellow says the weight loss crowd should be aware that some gluten-free products have more calories than gluten-rich products because they often contain more fat, sugar and salt to improve flavor or texture. Other gluten-free cons: they tend to cost more than the regular products; avoiding gluten can make it very difficult to diagnose celiac disease; giving up gluten may actually result in digestive problems because of the low fiber content of flours used; and lastly many gluten-free products use refined carbs, such as tapioca flour, which lack nutrients, including iron, magnesium, folate and thiamin. Juliette Kellow, "Is the gluten-free ‘health’ craze making you ill... and fat?", Evening Gazette, July 27, 2014, © MGN Ltd

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Dieting & Weight Control Digestive Other Food & Nutrition Asthma & Allergies Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom

Children May Be Consuming Dangerously High Levels Of Certain Nutrients In Breakfast Cereals July 22, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A Washington, D.C.-based research/advocacy groups says that fortified breakfast cereals put children at risk of consuming too much vitamin A, zinc and niacin, nutrients meant for adults. The three nutrients can be dangerous: too much vitamin A, for example, can damage the liver, bones, skin, nails and hair. Too much zinc can impair copper absorption; and too much niacin can cause short-term problems like rash, nausea and vomiting. The solution, according to the Environmental Working Group, is for children to get those nutrients naturally from fruits and vegetables. A pediatrician, however, notes that he has never heard of children being harmed by ingesting too much of the three nutrients. Another observer says most of the cereals cited in the report were targeted at adults anyway, and rarely eaten by children. Emily Chappell, "Are fortified cereals a danger to children?", Lancaster News, July 22, 2014, © LancasterOnline

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Food & Nutrition Kid's Health Pre-School/School Teen Other Food & Nutrition Vitamins Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America