A comprehensive study by researchers from Queen Mary University of London and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health has debunked the belief that vitamin D supplements benefit bone health in deficient children. Conducted on 8,851 Mongolian schoolchildren, the trial found that vitamin D supplementation did not reduce fracture risk or improve bone strength. These findings may prompt a reassessment of the effects of vitamin D supplements on bone health.
A new study on saffron extract, affron, shows potential in enhancing the body’s resilience to stress. The study, conducted on rats, revealed significant improvements in stress levels with the oral administration of the extract. Affron’s mechanism of action includes regulating stress hormones, offering potential benefits for stress management. These findings may have implications for human clinical studies in the future.
Approximately 9,700 years ago, DNA analysis from chewed gum in Huseby Klev, Sweden, revealed a teenage girl’s diet of red fox, hazelnut, red deer, and apple, shedding light on prehistoric people’s microbiomes. The study, conducted by Stockholm University and the Swedish Museum of Natural History, provides insights into ancient dietary diversity and oral health, with implications for modern diets.
A recent study unveiled the potential of Venetron, derived from Apocynum venetum, in alleviating menstrual complaints. The randomized study in Japan found improvements in pain, concentration, and sleep quality among women taking the supplement. The extract’s mechanism of action involves reducing stress markers and supporting neurotransmitter function for improved mood and sleep.
The infant nutrition market is evolving with a focus on innovative ingredients to meet parents’ high standards. Key components such as HMOs, probiotics, and protein hydrolysates are increasingly in demand, with companies aiming to mimic breast milk’s composition. Specialized formulas and a growing emphasis on immunity and gut health are also driving innovation.
The market for dairy proteins is expanding into health and wellness categories such as gut health and functional foods. Dr. Shakti Singh from Fonterra highlights the demand for holistic well-being solutions, incorporating dairy proteins to improve overall health. Additionally, the company emphasizes sustainability, aiming for a 30% reduction in on-farm emissions by 2030.
Researchers are exploring alternative anticancer therapies to complement breast cancer treatment due to long-term side effects. An early-stage trial found that Boswellia serrata extract reduced tumor proliferation in breast cancer patients. Additional studies noted potential anticancer effects of soy, enterolactone, and green tea, highlighting the need for further research on effective dosages and lifelong dietary habits.
A study from Tufts University’s HNRCA found that women who consume more plant-based protein in midlife tend to have better overall health as they age. Analyzing data from over 48,000 women, the study revealed a correlation between plant protein consumption and reduced risk of chronic diseases. This suggests that a diet high in plant protein may contribute to healthier aging.
The American Cancer Society’s report shows a worrying rise in colorectal cancer cases among young adults in the US. The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine urges a shift to plant-based diets and reduced red meat consumption to address the issue, citing the health risks associated with meat-heavy diets. This dietary shift is emphasized as a crucial step in preventing colorectal cancer.
ProLongevity’s personalized program analyzes blood sugar triggers, aids weight loss, and promotes overall well-being. Founder Graham Phillips warns against ultra-processed foods, advocating for fermented alternatives. He highlights the impact on gut health and emphasizes the need for natural choices over marketed shortcuts, promoting personalized precision nutrition as a solution. Phillips recommends consuming traditional fermented foods for optimal health.
The COSMOS study by Mass General Brigham showed that daily cocoa extract and multivitamin supplements can improve memory and slow cognitive aging in older adults. The research included 5,000 participants and found consistent benefits for global cognition and episodic memory. These findings support the use of multivitamins as a safe and accessible approach to protecting cognitive health.
U.S. News Report’s annual diet ranking highlights the top sustainable weight loss plans, including WeightWatchers, Mediterranean, and volumetrics diets. The panelists emphasize well-balanced, unrestrictive diets and advocate for plant-forward diets like the Mediterranean, flexitarian, and vegan diets. The report also addresses the impact of social media influencers on diet perceptions and recognizes the growing trend of plant-based eating.
Strides in UHT treatment, microparticulation, and shelf life stability help combat malnutrition. Experts from FrieslandCampina Ingredients, Fonterra, and dsm-firmenich discuss challenges and solutions. These include the difficulty in consuming medical nutrition products, heat treatment impact on whey proteins, and the importance of protein and micronutrient-rich formulations. Companies also aim to fortify food for cost-effective nutrition support.
A study by the International Nut and Dried Fruit Council found that long-term mixed nut consumption improves brain insulin sensitivity in older adults with overweight or obesity. The study, conducted by Maastricht University, observed significant benefits for brain health and metabolic function. Nut consumption also showed positive effects on cardiometabolic health and weight management.
