Mangos, often dismissed as too sugary, may hold hidden benefits for those at risk of diabetes. A George Mason University study found that daily mango eaters showed better blood sugar control and less body fat than those eating a lower-sugar snack. The results suggest that it’s not just sugar levels, but how the sugar is packaged in whole foods, that matters.
Read moreRice, a staple for billions, is one of the most resource-hungry crops on the planet—but scientists may have found a way to change that. By applying nanoscale selenium directly to rice plants, researchers dramatically improved nitrogen efficiency, boosted yields, and made grains more nutritious while reducing fertilizer use and cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
Read moreResearchers have shown that a green-Mediterranean diet can help slow brain aging. By analyzing data from the DIRECT PLUS trial, scientists found reduced levels of proteins tied to faster brain decline among those consuming green tea and Mankai. The results point to anti-inflammatory compounds as key protectors of brain health. This diet may be a powerful tool for preserving cognitive function.
Read moreDuke University scientists have discovered that pancreatic alpha cells, long believed to only produce glucagon, actually generate powerful amounts of GLP-1 — the same hormone mimicked by popular diabetes drugs like semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy). Even more surprisingly, when glucagon production is blocked, alpha cells “switch gears” and boost GLP-1 output, enhancing insulin release and blood sugar control.
Read moreDiabetes affects millions of Americans, and many don’t even realize they have it. Instead of relying on costly and time-consuming lab tests, scientists at Penn State have developed a breath sensor that can detect diabetes and prediabetes within minutes by measuring acetone levels. Built from laser-induced graphene and zinc oxide, the sensor is lightweight, inexpensive, and designed to overcome challenges like humidity in exhaled breath.
Read moreDespite strong evidence that salt substitutes can safely lower sodium intake and reduce high blood pressure, very few Americans use them. A new analysis of nearly 20 years of national health data found that usage peaked at just over 5% and then declined, even among those with hypertension. Researchers say this represents a major missed opportunity to improve heart health, especially since salt substitutes are inexpensive and effective.
Read moreResearchers have identified several chemical signatures, detectable in blood and urine, that can accurately measure dietary intake, potentially offering a new tool for physicians, dieticians and researchers to assess eating habits, measure the value of fad diets and develop health policies.
Read moreA clinical trial shows infants who consume formula containing milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) score higher in cognitive, language and motor development than infants consuming a milk-based formula that didn't contain MFGM.
Read moreReduced food intake helps both animals and humans to improve health in old age and can prolong life. But when do you have to change your diet to achieve this benefit in old age? Scientists have now shown that mice only become healthier if they start food reduction early and eat less before entering old age. The scientists conclude that healthy behavior must be established earlier in life in order to improve health in old age and extend lifespan.
Read moreFamilies dealing with the stress and frustration of their child's overly picky eating habits may have a new addition to their parental toolbox. Pediatric researchers recently described a brief group cognitive-behavioral therapy program that provides parents with specific techniques to improve their child's mealtime behaviors and expand the range of foods their children will eat. Although the study size was small, the parents involved reported 'life-changing' improvements.
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