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

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Men's Health Women's Health Other Men's Health Menstruation & Menopause Aging Bones & Joints Pills & Supplements Vitamins Other Conditions Geographies Worldwide North America Asia-Pacific United States of America China

Cannabis Extract Helps Relieve Stiffness, Pain Associated With Multiple Sclerosis October 8, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A phase 3 clinical trial involving 22 medical centers in the U.K. has found that cannabis extract (tetrahydrocannabinol) eases the painful muscle stiffness associated with multiple sclerosis (MS). Patients took either gradually increasing doses of cannabis extract (up to 25 mg) or a placebo for two weeks, followed by 10 weeks at the maintenance dose. Researchers said that at the end of the study, relief from muscle stiffness was twice as high among the cannabis extract group as the placebo group. Muscle stiffness was alleviated in 30 percent of those given cannabis compared with 16 percent of those treated with the placebo. J. P. Zajicek et al., "Multiple Sclerosis and Extract of Cannabis: Results of the MUSEC Trial", Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, October 08, 2012, © BMJ Publishing Group Ltd.

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Other Conditions Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom

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

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

Government Of Scotland Helps Small Food Makers Reduce Salt, Sugar, Fat In Products October 8, 2012: 12:00 AM EST The Scottish government has created a two-year £172,000 (US$278,200) reformulation program to help smaller food manufacturers comply with the Obesity Route Map, which lays out the steps to be taken by the government and the food industry to address the increasing prevalence of obesity in Scotland. With the government aid, small and medium-size food manufacturers will be able to “tweak recipes” – to reduce salt, sugar and fats – “ in line with changing consumer tastes and requirements and the availability of new food preparation techniques and technologies.” Laurence Gibbons , "Scottish scheme helps cut salt, fat and sugar", Food Manufacture, October 08, 2012, © William Reed Business Media

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Conditions Food & Nutrition Other Food & Nutrition Obesity Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe

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

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

Oils Of Herbs/Spices May Provide Eco-Friendly Answer To Potato Spoilage Problems October 5, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A Spanish researcher looking to solve the problem of spoilage (i.e., sprouting or rotting) of potatoes during storage has found that treating tubers with oil of coriander for industrial potatoes, and with oil of mint for both industrial and table-stock crops, retards germination. Currently, the chemical Clorprofam (CIPC) is used to suppress sprouting of potatoes. But environmental and safety concerns have fueled the search for alternatives that preserve the quality of the crop. The researcher also found that the oil of eucalyptus prevented germination (sprouting) of table-stock potatoes and “could be another alternative for reducing post-harvest losses.” Victoria Alfonso Seminario, "The use of essential oils as antigerminants for the storage of potatoes could be a good solution as an alternative to chemical treatment", News release, Universidad Pública de Navarra, October 05, 2012, © Universidad Pública de Navarra (UPNA)

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Food & Nutrition Organic & Natural Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe Spain

Unilever Launches Campaign Against Diarrhea In Nigeria October 4, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Unilever Nigeria Plc, maker of the Lifebuoy brand of soap, launched the Clean Hands Save Life to Fight the Disease campaign against diarrhea in the country. The campaign aims to promote hand washing as part of efforts to prevent the deadly disease, which together with pneumonia kills more than 3.5 million children before their fifth birthday each year, according to the World Health Organization. Medical Women's Association of Nigeria president Christina Campbell supports Unilever's initiative, which she described as aimed at enhancing the health of children and helping them develop healthy habits that could prolong their lives. Tony Nwanne, "Lifebouy battles diarrhea with hand washing campaign", Guardian, October 04, 2012, © Guardian

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Kid's Health Other Kid's Health Digestive Other Conditions Geographies Worldwide EMEA Middle East- Africa Nigeria

Makers Of Herbal Supplements Need To Ensure Product Quality At Every Step Of Production October 3, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Applying the principles of “quality by design” – ensuring quality at every step of herbal product production – would help allay consumer worries about safety and integrity, a U.S. review of more than 100 studies has found. An initial step in the process would be to verify the identity of raw materials (plants) used to make herbal supplements. The current process is flawed because of variations in growing, processing and naming plants used to make herbal supplements. According to the researchers, “the consumer must take it on faith that the supplement they are ingesting is an accurate representation of what is listed on the label.” Ikhlas A. Khan et al., " Implementing a “Quality by Design” Approach to Assure the Safety and Integrity of Botanical Dietary Supplements", Journal of Natural Products, October 03, 2012, © American Chemical Society

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Better For You Pills & Supplements Safety Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

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

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Heart & Cardiovascular Pills & Supplements Obesity Geographies Worldwide Asia-Pacific Australia

HHS Inspector General Finds Widespread Illegal Labeling Of Weight Loss, Immune Support Supplements October 3, 2012: 12:00 AM EST The Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says in a new report that a large number of weight loss and immune support supplements violate federal labeling laws and do not provide required scientific evidence supporting health claims. According to the report, of 127 dietary supplements analyzed, seven percent lacked a required FDA disclaimer, and 20 percent “included prohibited disease claims on their labels”. The Inspector General made several recommendations to the FDA, including improvement of the notification system for claims, and expansion of market surveillance “to enforce the use of disclaimers for structure/function claims and to detect disease claims”. Daniel R. Levinson Inspector General, "Report: Dietary Supplements: Structure/Function Claims Fail To Meet Federal Requirements", Report, Department of Health & Human Services Office of the Inspector General, October 03, 2012, © Department of Health & Human Services Office of the Inspector General

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

Sabinsa Announces First Non-Dairy Use Of Its Probiotic Product October 2, 2012: 12:00 AM EST U.S. phyonutrient maker Sabinsa Corporation announced that its probiotic product LactoSpore is now an ingredient of Colombian baking company Perman’s sliced bread. According to Sabinsa, Perman Pan Tajado is the first non-dairy use of its probiotic in a functional food. LactoSpore is the trade name for Sabinsa’s probiotic Bacillus coagulans, formerly known as Lactobacillus sporogenes. LactoSpore withstands the acidic environment of the stomach and then germinates and proliferates in the GI tract within a few hours. "Sabinsa Continues Global Functional Food Expansion Of LactoSpore® With Launch Of Colombia's Perman Bread", Press release, Sabinsa , October 02, 2012, © Sabinsa

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Digestive Other Food & Nutrition Geographies Worldwide North America Latin America United States of America Colombia

Vitamin D Does Not Prevent – Or Reduce Severity Of – The Common Cold October 2, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A randomized clinical study of vitamin D’s effectiveness in fighting the common cold found no significant benefit. The New Zealand study included 322 healthy adults who received an initial dose of 200,000 IU of oral vitamin D3, then 200,000 IU a month later, and 100,000 IU monthly for a total of 18 months. The researchers found that the monthly dose of vitamin D3 in healthy adults did not significantly prevent upper respiratory tract infections or reduce their severity, even during winter. They suggested that further research is needed among other populations and with different doses of vitamin D. David R. Murdoch et al. , "Effect of Vitamin D3 Supplementation on Upper Respiratory Tract Infections in Healthy Adults", The Journal of the American Medical Association, October 02, 2012, © American Medical Association

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Alternative Therapies Preventative Care Pills & Supplements Vitamins Other Conditions Geographies Worldwide Asia-Pacific New Zealand

Lower Levels Of Vitamin D Linked To More Severe MS Symptoms October 2, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Researchers have found a link between vitamin D intake and the risk of extended disability from the autoimmune disorder multiple sclerosis (MS). The five-year, multicenter U.S. clinical trial of vitamin D supplementation among 469 MS patients found that lower levels of vitamin D were associated with more inflammation and lesions in the brain. However, the researchers cautioned that there is no evidence that taking vitamin D supplements will prevent those symptoms. Further research is needed, they said. Ellen M. Mowry et al., " Vitamin D status predicts new brain magnetic resonance imaging activity in multiple sclerosis", Annals of Neurology, October 02, 2012, © American Neurological Association

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Conditions Food & Nutrition Pills & Supplements Vitamins Other Conditions Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

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

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

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

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

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

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Aging Heart & Cardiovascular Preventative Care Pills & Supplements Asthma & Allergies Cancer & Cancer Prevention Diabetes Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Stroke Recovery Should Include Aerobic, Strength Exercise Program To Boost Cognitive Healing October 1, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Stroke patients who underwent six months of exercise  improved their memory, language, thinking and judgment by as much as 50 percent, according to the Canadian study. Researchers followed 41 stroke patients – most with mild to moderate walking problems – who embarked on a five-times-a-week aerobic and strength training exercise program. By the end of the program, participants showed improved attention, concentration, planning and organizing, as well as muscular strength and walking ability. The researchers said this kind of exercise program should be the “standard of care for people following stroke." Susan Marzolini, "Exercise Improves Memory, Thinking After Stroke, Study Finds", News release, presentation at the Canadian Stroke Congress, October 01, 2012, © Canadian Stroke Congress

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Brain Fitness & Exercise Other Conditions Geographies Worldwide North America Canada

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

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Aging Heart & Cardiovascular Other Food & Nutrition Pills & Supplements Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

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

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

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

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

Nestlé UK Funds Healthy Kids Initiative In Partnership With PhunkyFoods September 26, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Nestlé UK hopes to reach 76,000 children over the next three years with a Healthy Kids Program, a joint effort with PhunkyFoods to stem the rising tide of obesity in the U.K. and lower the average body mass index of British children. PhunkyFoods is an independent curriculum-based healthy activity and eating program. Nestlé will contribute £820,000 to the initiative. The PhunkyFoods curriculum, Web site and resources were developed by registered nutritionists and consultant teachers; they are completely independent of any company or product branding. "Nestlé UK and PhunkyFoods join forces on new healthy kids programme", Press release, Nestlé , September 26, 2012, © Nestlé

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Food & Nutrition Other Food & Nutrition Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom

Study Finding Harmful Effects Of GM Corn Triggers Russian Import Ban September 26, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A French study that found that rats developed tumors and organ damage when fed Monsanto’s genetically modified (GM) Roundup Ready corn convinced the Russian government to slap a temporary ban on the import of Monsanto’s GM corn. The government asked one of its agencies – the Institute of Nutrition – to verify the study’s findings. The biotechnology sector has strongly criticized the study, whose findings are contradicted by biotechnology company studies, including studies by Monsanto. Monsanto said the French study did not meet minimum acceptable standards for this type of scientific research. "Russia Bans Monsanto GM Corn Over Food-Safety Concerns", Food Product Design, September 26, 2012, © Virgo Publishing, LLC

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Food & Nutrition Genetically Modified Foods Safety Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe Russia

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

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Mind Depression Better For You Dieting & Weight Control Preventative Care Other Food & Nutrition Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

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

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

Ginkgo Biloba Falls Short As Memory Enhancing Supplement September 24, 2012: 12:00 AM EST People looking for nutritional supplements to improve their memory can skip ginkgo biloba, a new study by British researchers has found. The ancient Chinese herbal medicine has been used to ward off the mental decline associated with aging. And recently marketers have promoted ginkgo biloba supplements as a way to boost memory and stave off Alzheimer’s disease. But this meta-analysis of controlled clinical trials involving 1,000 individual found no health benefit. In fact, the authors wrote, ginkgo biloba had “no ascertainable positive effects on a range of targeted cognitive functions in healthy individuals. Keith R Laws et al., "Is Ginkgo biloba a cognitive enhancer in healthy individuals? A meta-analysis", Human Psychopharmacology, September 24, 2012, © John Wiley & Sons, Inc

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

Scientists Will Test Satiety Effect Of Melanoidins Baked Into Bread September 21, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Italian scientists are preparing to launch a study to determine whether undigestible fiber-like compounds found in coffee and bread crust can reduce appetite by providing a feeling of fullness. The scientists will develop bread enriched with melanoidins and test them against other kinds of bread in a clinical trial to see whether they impact satiety. Fifteen volunteers will eat the experimental breads and fill out satiety questionnaires. Blood tests will then be performed to determine satiety gene expression. "Italy : Checking Melanoidins Satiating Efficiency Through Evaluation of Human Gut-Brain Response to Novel-Bread Ingestion", TendersInfo, September 21, 2012, © Euclid Infotech (P). Ltd

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Dieting & Weight Control Other Food & Nutrition Obesity Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe Italy

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

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Heart & Cardiovascular Pills & Supplements Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Study Finds That Obese Children Find It Difficult To Identify Specific Tastes September 20, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Researchers who studied 94 normal weight and 99 obese, but otherwise healthy, children 6 to 18 years old found that obese children had a harder time identifying specific tastes, probably because their taste buds were less sensitive. The taste sensitivity of each child was tested using 22 "taste strips" placed on the tongue. Strips included the five taste sensations, at four different levels of intensity, plus two blank strips. Obese children had particular difficulty in identifying salty, umami, and bitter tastes. Obese kids also rated three out of the four intensity levels lower than kids of normal weight. Johanna Overberg et al., "Differences in taste sensitivity between obese and non-obese children and adolescents", Archives of Disease in Childhood, September 20, 2012, © BMJ Publishing Group Ltd & Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Conditions Kid's Health Pre-School/School Obesity Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

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

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Conditions Food & Nutrition Other Food & Nutrition Obesity Geographies Worldwide North America EMEA United States of America Europe Norway Spain

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

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

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

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Better For You Dieting & Weight Control Heart & Cardiovascular Preventative Care Other Food & Nutrition Other Conditions Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

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

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

Government Should Regulate Sugary Drink Consumption To Control Obesity, Healthcare Costs September 18, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Many foods contribute to excess calorie intake and obesity but, according to health experts, sugary drinks are particularly at fault. Consumption of sugary beverages has tripled since the 1970s, as drink sizes have increased from 6.5 or 12 ounces to 16, 20, 32 and 64 ounces. New York City health commissioner Thomas A. Farley believes government can play a role in controlling consumption of sugary drinks, and thus controlling the rising healthcare costs associated with obesity and heart disease. In a JAMA article, he notes that New York City has supported a 1-cent-per-ounce excise tax on sugary drinks and the city's health department approved a cap on the portion size of sugary drinks served at restaurants. Farley TA, "The Role of Government in Preventing Excess Calorie Consumption: The Example of New York City", JAMA, September 18, 2012, © American Medical Association

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

Organic Food Sales Doing Remarkably Well Ten Years After USDA Program Launched September 17, 2012: 12:00 AM EST The organic food industry has made “remarkable progress” over the ten years since the creation of the USDA National Organic Program, according to consulting firm Retail Insights. Though growth in conventional food stores has kept up with food inflation, organic food has a CAGR of eight percent over the past three decades. Total organic spending was about $10.4 billion in 2003 and $31.5 billion last year. The bulk of that spending was on organic food and beverages – $29 billion. “Standardization and definition have been extremely helpful in providing confidence in shoppers,” Retail Insights said. Vanessa Voltolina, "SN Whole Health: Organic at 10", Supermarket news, September 17, 2012, © Penton Media

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

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

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Conditions Food & Nutrition Kid's Health Babies Pills & Supplements Other Conditions Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe Middle East- Africa France Belgium Chad

Legumes Used To Create Unusually Moist – And Nutritious – Cakes September 17, 2012: 12:00 AM EST A Washington State University catering service has developed cakes that use unconventional – but healthy – ingredients from the Palouse, a region in the Northwest U.S. that comprises parts of Washington, Idaho and Oregon. The unusual cake ingredients include two legumes: garbanzo beans and lentils. According to the pastry chef of the university caterer, you can’t taste the legumes in the cakes, but they contribute to their moistness and tenderness, and make them high in fiber and protein. The secret lies in the preparation of the batter. The lentils or garbanzo beans are cooked, pureed and folded into the batter. The legumes' natural sugars and gums are hydrophilic: “they love water and bind it to the cake system," making the cakes unusually moist. Linda Weiford, "Sweet Palouse on a fork", WSU News, September 17, 2012, © Washington State University

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

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

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Mind Sleep & Relaxation Better For You Dieting & Weight Control Fitness & Exercise Other Food & Nutrition Obesity Geographies Worldwide North America Canada

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

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

Posting Calorie Counts On Menus May Not Make Much Of A Difference In Purchase Patterns September 14, 2012: 12:00 AM EST As America awaits implementation of a restaurant menu labeling law, market research NPD Group finds that posting calorie counts on restaurant menus may have only a slight impact on consumer meal selections. In two types of testing, the group found that food choices labeled “fewer calories” were not ranked as a high priority. Quality (fresh, natural and nutritious) and portion size (smaller) were given higher rankings by testing panelists. When doing comparative testing – menus with and without calorie postings – among adults over age 18, panelists did choose lower calorie items, but the difference wasn’t that big. The average number of calories ordered when calories were posted was 901, compared to 1,021 when calories were not posted, NPD said. Bob O'Brien, "If You Lead Consumers to Low-Calorie Restaurant Foods Will They Eat It?", NPD Blog, September 14, 2012, © NPD

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Conditions Food & Nutrition Other Food & Nutrition Obesity Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

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

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

Moderate Exercise Helps People Cope With Stress And Anxiety For A Longer Time September 13, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Exercise helps keep the effects of anxiety and stress at bay for extended periods of time, according to new U.S. research. Groups of college students did either moderate exercise (cycling) or quiet rest for 30 minutes. After their anxiety levels were measured, the students were exposed to a variety of highly arousing pleasant and unpleasant photos. Exercise and quiet rest were equally effective at reducing anxiety levels at first. But once they were emotionally stimulated by the photos for 20 minutes, the anxiety levels of those who had only rested went back up. But those who had exercised maintained their reduced anxiety levels for a longer period of time. J. Carson Smith et al., "Effects of Emotional Exposure on State Anxiety after Acute Exercise", Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, September 13, 2012, © American College of Sports Medicine

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Mind Depression Stress Management Fitness & Exercise Other Conditions Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Big Food Companies That Own Organic Brands Oppose California’s GMO Labeling Initiative September 13, 2012: 12:00 AM EST The organic food industry in California generally supports Proposition 37, a ballot initiative that would require labeling of foods that contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs). But some well-known organic brands owned by big food companies – Kashi, Cascadian Farm, and Horizon Organic – are opposed to it. Joining big bioengineering companies like Monsanto and DuPont are Kellogg, General Mills, Dean Foods, Smucker’s and Coca-Cola, each of which own organic brands. The New York Times reports that consumer reaction on social media has led some of the organic brands owned by big companies “to try to distance themselves from their corporate parents”. Stephanie Strom, "Uneasy Allies in the Grocery Aisle", The New York Times, September 13, 2012, © The New York Times Company

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Food & Nutrition Genetically Modified Foods Organic & Natural Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Fish Oil Supplement Companies Criticize Omega 3 Testing As Flawed September 13, 2012: 12:00 AM EST Industry representatives of fish oil supplement makers went on the defensive recently, criticizing ConsumerLab laboratory analyses of 35 fish oil/omega 3 supplements as well as a scientific meta-study that found no omega 3 benefit for heart patients. ConsumerLab found problems with 11 of the 35 products, including mislabeling, contamination and excessive PCBs. The meta-study, published in JAMA, found that any positive impact of omega 3s on heart health was statistically insignificant. A representative of the Global Organization for EPA and DHA pointed out flaws in the ConsumerLab testing and publicity, and in the JAMA study. Joanna Cosgrove, " Omega 3s Under Fire", Nutraceuticals World, September 13, 2012, © Rodman Publishing

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Heart & Cardiovascular Pills & Supplements Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

New York City’s Board Of Health Cracks Down On Super-Sized Sugary Drinks September 13, 2012: 12:00 AM EST In an unprecedented move, New York City’s Board of Health – at the behest of Mayor Michael Bloomberg – has barred the sale of sugary beverages in cups or bottles larger than 16 ounces in any establishment that has a food-service license. That would include fast-food restaurants, delis, movie and Broadway theaters, and even Yankee Stadium concession stands. Despite widespread opposition – a poll of New Yorkers found 60 percent were hostile – the measure will go into effect next March. "We cannot continue to have our kids come down with diabetes at age 6," Bloomberg said. David B. Caruso and Jennifer Peltz, "NYC Bans Big, Sugary Drinks at Restaurants", ABC News, September 13, 2012, via Associated Press

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

“Pink Slime” Maker Alleges Defamation By ABC News In $1.2 Billion Suit September 13, 2012: 12:00 AM EST ABC News, several of its top anchor and reporting personnel, and two federal government scientists are being sued for $1.2 billion by a maker of a textured beef product dubbed by the media as “pink slime”. Beef Products, Inc., which manufactures a lean, finely textured beef (LFTB), alleged that ABC News misled American consumers to believe the use of boneless lean beef trimmings in processed meat is unhealthy and unsafe. Also included in the defamation suit is the former corporate quality assurance manager at Beef Products, who was the apparent source  for the story. "ABC News Slapped With $1.2B Lawsuit Over ‘Pink Slime’", Food Product Design, September 13, 2012, © Virgo Publishing LLC

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

Developmental Disabilities Often Accompanied By Oral Health Problems, US Study Shows September 12, 2012: 12:00 AM EST People with developmental disabilities are potentially burdened with increased oral health problems due to many physical, cognitive, and financial challenges, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association. Results of the study conducted by researchers at Tufts University of School of Dental Medicine and School of Medicine in Massachusetts showed their dental health problems can cause pain, problems with eating, and infection, ultimately causing significant medical issues in the long term. Data shows that 32.2 percent of patients had untreated cavities, 80.3 percent had periodontitis, and 10.9 percent had lost at least some teeth. Janice Neumann, "People with developmental disabilities face increased risk of oral health problems", Chicago Tribune, September 12, 2012, © Chicago Tribune

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Kid's Health Mind Other Kid's Health Other Mind Oral Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

“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

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Better For You Dieting & Weight Control Other Food & Nutrition Obesity Geographies Worldwide EMEA Middle East- Africa Israel

P & G Joins With Oral Care Promoters To Boost National Awareness Of Hispanic Dental Health September 12, 2012: 12:00 AM EST In an effort to boost Washington awareness of lagging Hispanic oral health, Procter & Gamble joined with two oral care organizations to spend a day meeting with Capitol Hill lawmakers. The initiative springs from a survey sponsored by P & G brands Crest and Oral-B that found that two-thirds of Hispanics rated their oral health as excellent or good, though nearly the same percentage said they had experienced at least one “oral health issue” in the previous year. About 30 percent of those surveyed believe that cavities go away on their own with daily brushing. The Hispanic Dental Association and Oral Health America were co-sponsors of the event. "Hispanic Oral Health Takes Center Stage at Capitol Hill Event", News release, Procter & Gamble, September 12, 2012, © Procter & Gamble

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

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

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Heart & Cardiovascular Pills & Supplements Other Conditions Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe Greece

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.

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Conditions Other Conditions Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America