https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/health_medicine/nutrition/ Nutritional Information. Answers to questions about nutrition, obesity, herbal and nutritional supplements, and the role of diet in improving and maintaining your health. en-us Wed, 20 May 2026 09:11:12 EDT Wed, 20 May 2026 09:11:12 EDT 60 https://www.sciencedaily.com/images/scidaily-logo-rss.png https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/health_medicine/nutrition/ For more science news, visit ScienceDaily. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260519224308.htm Low vitamin D levels could be quietly making breast cancer surgery recovery far more painful. In a new study, patients deficient in vitamin D were three times more likely to experience moderate to severe pain after mastectomy surgery and ended up using significantly more opioid medication to cope. Researchers say vitamin D may help regulate how the body processes pain through its effects on inflammation and the immune system. Tue, 19 May 2026 23:30:39 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260519224308.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260519003103.htm A large European study revealed that a lower-calorie Mediterranean diet paired with exercise and coaching dramatically reduced the risk of type 2 diabetes. Participants who made these lifestyle changes were 31% less likely to develop the disease over six years. They also lost more weight and trimmed their waistlines compared to those following a standard Mediterranean diet alone. Tue, 19 May 2026 03:02:22 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260519003103.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260517211427.htm Scientists discovered that eating grapes can actually change how your skin behaves at the genetic level. After just two weeks of daily grape consumption, volunteers showed signs of improved skin protection and reduced oxidative stress from UV exposure. Researchers say the effects appear widespread, even though every person’s genes responded a little differently. Mon, 18 May 2026 19:31:33 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260517211427.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260517030515.htm Studies suggest watermelon could be a hidden powerhouse for better health. Researchers found that people who eat watermelon tend to have higher-quality diets packed with more vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants — while consuming less added sugar and saturated fat. Another study showed watermelon juice may help protect blood vessel function and support heart health. Sun, 17 May 2026 08:56:21 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260517030515.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260517030404.htm Scientists have discovered that the human body undergoes a dramatic internal transformation during extended fasting, with major changes appearing only after about three days without food. In a seven-day water-only fasting study, researchers tracked thousands of proteins in the blood and found widespread shifts affecting organs throughout the body — including the brain. While the body quickly switches from burning glucose to fat, the most intriguing biological changes linked to potential health benefits didn’t emerge until later in the fast. Sun, 17 May 2026 08:38:40 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260517030404.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260515234759.htm A major analysis of brain scans found that people with anxiety disorders have noticeably lower levels of choline, a nutrient crucial for healthy brain function. The strongest evidence appeared in the prefrontal cortex, the region tied to emotional control and decision-making. Researchers say the discovery is the first clear chemical brain pattern linked to anxiety and could eventually lead to new nutrition-based treatments. Sat, 16 May 2026 08:41:30 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260515234759.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260515233343.htm Coffee may give your blood pressure a temporary jolt, but that doesn’t mean it’s secretly wrecking your heart. Researchers say caffeine can briefly raise blood pressure by stimulating your heart and tightening blood vessels, especially in people who don’t drink coffee regularly. But large studies involving hundreds of thousands of people found no strong evidence that moderate coffee drinking increases the risk of developing hypertension. In fact, coffee also contains natural compounds that may help blood vessels function better. Fri, 15 May 2026 23:33:43 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260515233343.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260515002158.htm Scientists have uncovered a surprising dark side to vitamin B2: it may help cancer cells stay alive. The vitamin supports a cellular shield that protects tumors from ferroptosis, a form of programmed cell death linked to cancer suppression. In lab tests, researchers used a vitamin B2-like compound called roseoflavin to break down that protection and trigger cancer cell death. Fri, 15 May 2026 07:44:45 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260515002158.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260512202350.htm A huge long-term study found that drinking two to three cups of coffee a day was linked to a much lower risk of dementia, especially before age 75. Researchers say caffeine may help keep brain cells active while reducing inflammation and harmful plaque buildup associated with Alzheimer’s disease. But more coffee wasn’t better — the protective effect appeared to level off after moderate intake. Tue, 12 May 2026 20:23:50 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260512202350.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260512202345.htm A daily multivitamin may help slow biological aging, according to researchers studying older adults in a large clinical trial. After two years, participants taking multivitamins showed slower aging in several DNA-based “epigenetic clocks,” with the effect equal to about four months less biological aging. People who started out biologically older than their actual age appeared to benefit the most. The findings hint that a simple supplement could play a role in healthier aging. Thu, 14 May 2026 10:22:46 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260512202345.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260511213144.htm A four-week diet change was enough to make some older adults appear biologically younger in a new University of Sydney study. Participants who reduced fat intake or shifted toward more plant-based protein showed improvements in key health biomarkers tied to aging. The strongest results came from a lower-fat, higher-carb diet, while people eating closer to their usual diets saw almost no change. Tue, 12 May 2026 08:44:25 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260511213144.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260511213141.htm Scientists at McGill University have uncovered a hidden molecular “switch” that turns on a powerful calorie-burning system in brown fat — the body’s heat-generating fat linked to metabolism and weight control. The breakthrough centers on glycerol, a molecule released when fat is broken down in the cold, which activates an enzyme called TNAP and triggers an alternative heat-producing pathway that scientists had struggled to explain for years. Tue, 12 May 2026 07:58:13 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260511213141.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260510234726.htm Researchers say fructose is not just “empty calories” — it may actively push the body toward fat storage and metabolic disease. A new review found that fructose affects the body differently from glucose, disrupting normal energy regulation and promoting processes linked to obesity, insulin resistance, and cardiovascular problems. Mon, 11 May 2026 08:28:23 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260510234726.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260509210644.htm Ultra-processed foods may be doing far more damage than many people realize. A major new European cardiology report warns that people who eat the most ultra-processed foods face significantly higher risks of heart disease, irregular heart rhythms, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and even cardiovascular death. Researchers say these industrially manufactured foods — often packed with sugar, salt, unhealthy fats, and additives — can disrupt metabolism, trigger inflammation, and promote overeating, even when marketed as “healthy.” Sun, 10 May 2026 20:59:36 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260509210644.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260508171123.htm Scientists have uncovered a surprising secret hidden inside fat cells that could reshape how we think about obesity and metabolic disease. A protein called HSL, long believed to simply release stored fat when the body needs energy, turns out to have a second job deep inside the nucleus of fat cells—helping keep those cells healthy and balanced. Even more surprising, people and mice missing this protein don’t become obese as expected; instead, they lose fat tissue in a dangerous condition called lipodystrophy. Fri, 08 May 2026 17:21:20 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260508171123.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260506225551.htm Many cancer patients turn to biotin supplements hoping to restore hair lost during treatment, but experts warn the popular vitamin may do more harm than good. While biotin is often marketed for stronger hair and nails, there’s little evidence it actually helps cancer-related hair loss—and it can dangerously interfere with lab tests. Doctors say the supplement can distort key blood markers, potentially masking cancer recurrence or delaying treatment decisions. Thu, 07 May 2026 22:07:42 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260506225551.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260506225235.htm Aging doesn’t just add fat—it redistributes it in risky ways, pushing more into the abdomen where it can harm health. Scientists found that testosterone plays a key role in this shift. In older women recovering from hip fractures, a testosterone gel combined with exercise helped prevent the usual rise in dangerous visceral fat. The result could point to a powerful new strategy for improving recovery and long-term health. Thu, 07 May 2026 05:25:59 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260506225235.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260506225233.htm Some people taking Ozempic-like diabetes drugs may be getting dramatically better results for a surprising reason: why they overeat in the first place. A year-long study in Japan found that people who tend to eat because tempting food looks or smells irresistible were much more likely to lose weight and improve blood sugar levels on GLP-1 medications. But people who eat mainly in response to stress, sadness, or emotional struggles didn’t see the same long-term benefits. Thu, 07 May 2026 06:11:48 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260506225233.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260506225214.htm Eating eggs might do more than just start your day—it could help protect your brain. Researchers found that people 65 and older who eat eggs regularly have a significantly lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, with daily or near-daily consumption linked to up to a 27% reduction. Even modest egg intake showed benefits, suggesting that small dietary changes could make a meaningful difference over time. Thu, 07 May 2026 18:22:41 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260506225214.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260504023828.htm Creatine might be famous in the gym, but its real story is far more interesting. Naturally produced in the body, it helps power cells by rapidly regenerating ATP—the fuel that keeps muscles, the brain, and even the heart running during intense activity. Supplementing with creatine can boost short bursts of physical performance and may even support memory, mood, and cognitive speed, especially in people with lower baseline levels. Mon, 04 May 2026 04:13:48 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260504023828.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260502233911.htm Coffee doesn’t just energize—it actively reshapes the gut and mind. Researchers found that both caffeinated and decaf coffee altered gut bacteria in ways linked to better mood and lower stress. Decaf even improved learning and memory, while caffeine boosted focus and reduced anxiety. Together, they show coffee works through multiple pathways beyond just caffeine. Sun, 03 May 2026 12:18:40 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260502233911.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260430213503.htm A key protein involved in fat metabolism has been found to do more than scientists once thought. Instead of just releasing fat, it helps maintain healthy fat tissue and balance in the body. When it’s missing or disrupted, the results can be surprisingly harmful. This finding reshapes how researchers think about obesity and metabolic disease. Thu, 30 Apr 2026 21:40:07 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260430213503.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260429102026.htm Chronic stress is already tough on your gut—but new research suggests late-night eating could make things even worse. Scientists analyzing thousands of people found that those under high stress who also ate a large portion of their calories after 9 p.m. were far more likely to suffer from constipation and diarrhea. The combination appears to hit the gut twice, not only disrupting digestion but also reducing the diversity of beneficial gut bacteria. Fri, 01 May 2026 01:07:42 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260429102026.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260428045546.htm A troubling new study from MIT reveals that a common environmental contaminant, NDMA—found in polluted water, certain medications, and even processed foods—may pose a far greater cancer risk to children than adults. In experiments with mice, young animals exposed to the chemical developed significantly more DNA damage and cancer, despite experiencing the same initial exposure as adults. The key difference lies in how rapidly children’s cells divide, which turns early DNA damage into dangerous mutations much more easily. Wed, 29 Apr 2026 01:06:52 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260428045546.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260428004119.htm A daily vitamin D supplement may quietly supercharge chemotherapy. In a small study, women who took low doses alongside treatment were far more likely to see their cancer vanish than those who didn’t. Since vitamin D also supports immune function—and many patients are deficient—it could be playing a bigger role than expected. Scientists say this affordable approach deserves much deeper investigation. Tue, 28 Apr 2026 01:03:03 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260428004119.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260426012303.htm Fish oil has long been praised as brain-boosting, but new research suggests the story may be more complicated. Scientists found that in people with repeated mild head injuries, a key omega-3 fatty acid in fish oil—EPA—may actually interfere with the brain’s ability to repair itself. Instead of helping recovery, it appears to weaken blood vessel stability, disrupt healing signals, and even contribute to harmful protein buildup linked to cognitive decline. Sun, 26 Apr 2026 01:57:51 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260426012303.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260420014744.htm Cancer cells are known for their “glutamine addiction,” but many can escape this weakness by switching to alternative fuels. Researchers found that vitamin B7 acts like a metabolic “license,” enabling this escape route through a key enzyme. Without biotin, cancer cells lose that flexibility and stop growing. Mutations in a cancer-linked gene can make this vulnerability even stronger, offering a promising new target for therapy. Mon, 20 Apr 2026 07:14:27 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260420014744.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260417224527.htm Extra virgin olive oil might help protect your brain by working through your gut. A two-year study found that people who consumed it had better cognitive performance and more diverse gut bacteria than those using refined olive oil. Researchers even identified specific microbes linked to these benefits. The findings suggest that choosing high-quality olive oil could be a simple way to support brain health as you age. Sat, 18 Apr 2026 23:45:14 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260417224527.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260417224454.htm A surprising new study suggests that eating a very healthy diet—packed with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains—might be linked to a higher risk of lung cancer in younger non-smokers. Researchers found that patients under 50 diagnosed with lung cancer often had better-than-average diets, raising the possibility that pesticide exposure from conventionally grown produce could be a hidden culprit. Fri, 17 Apr 2026 23:27:27 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260417224454.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260417001658.htm Sparkling water is often seen as a simple, healthy drink—but could it also help with weight loss? New research suggests it may slightly boost how the body processes blood sugar and energy. However, the effect is very small, meaning it’s no substitute for diet and exercise. Fri, 17 Apr 2026 03:17:58 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260417001658.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260416071954.htm A hormone called FGF21 can reverse obesity in mice by activating a newly identified brain circuit tied to metabolism. Surprisingly, it works in the hindbrain—the same region targeted by GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy—but through a completely different mechanism. Instead of suppressing appetite, FGF21 ramps up the body’s energy burning. This insight could pave the way for more targeted weight-loss and liver disease treatments. Thu, 16 Apr 2026 23:49:55 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260416071954.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260416071947.htm A rogue set of “zombie” immune cells may be driving aging and fatty liver disease by flooding tissues with inflammation. Researchers found these cells accumulate with age and high cholesterol—and can make up most of the liver’s immune cells in older mice. When scientists removed them, liver damage was dramatically reversed, even without diet changes. Thu, 16 Apr 2026 07:59:44 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260416071947.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260414075637.htm Bread and other carbohydrate staples may be doing more than just filling plates—they could be quietly reshaping metabolism. In a surprising twist, researchers found that mice strongly preferred carbs like bread, rice, and wheat, abandoning their regular diet entirely. Even without eating more calories, they gained weight and body fat, not because they overate, but because their bodies burned less energy. Tue, 14 Apr 2026 09:21:12 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260414075637.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260413043129.htm New research reveals that obesity affects men and women in surprisingly different ways. Men are more likely to develop harmful abdominal fat and signs of liver stress, while women show higher inflammation and cholesterol levels. These differences could help explain why health risks vary between sexes. Scientists say this could lead to more tailored treatments for obesity. Mon, 13 Apr 2026 09:29:20 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260413043129.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260412221946.htm A newly discovered molecule could reshape the future of weight loss treatments by mimicking the powerful appetite-suppressing effects of drugs like Ozempic — but without many of the unpleasant side effects. Identified using artificial intelligence, this tiny peptide, called BRP, appears to act directly on the brain’s appetite-control center, helping animals eat less and lose fat without nausea or muscle loss. Sun, 12 Apr 2026 22:34:37 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260412221946.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260411090018.htm A major study suggests that when you eat could play a key role in staying lean. People who fast longer overnight and start their day with an early breakfast were more likely to have a lower BMI years later. Scientists think this is because eating earlier aligns better with the body’s internal clock. But skipping breakfast as part of intermittent fasting didn’t offer the same advantage—and may even be tied to unhealthy habits. Sat, 11 Apr 2026 09:24:37 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260411090018.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260411081426.htm Scientists have achieved the unthinkable by stabilizing a highly reactive molecule in water, confirming a decades-old theory about vitamin B1’s role in the body. The breakthrough not only solves a scientific mystery but could revolutionize greener chemical manufacturing. Sat, 11 Apr 2026 08:33:37 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260411081426.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260411022029.htm A new study reveals that popular diabetes and weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy may not work as effectively for about 10% of people due to specific genetic variants. These individuals appear to have a puzzling condition called “GLP-1 resistance,” where their bodies produce higher levels of the hormone targeted by these drugs—but don’t respond to it properly. Sun, 12 Apr 2026 08:58:54 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260411022029.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260411022023.htm Putting on weight earlier in life may be more dangerous than previously thought. Researchers found that early adulthood obesity significantly raises the risk of premature death, especially from major diseases like heart disease and diabetes. The longer the body carries excess weight, the greater the damage appears to be. Interestingly, cancer risk in women didn’t follow this pattern, suggesting other biological factors are at play. Sat, 11 Apr 2026 09:54:18 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260411022023.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260410083114.htm A common eye-health nutrient, zeaxanthin, may also help the body fight cancer more effectively. Scientists discovered it strengthens T cells and enhances the impact of immunotherapy treatments. Found in everyday vegetables and supplements, it’s safe, accessible, and shows strong potential as a cancer therapy booster. Human trials are the next step. Fri, 10 Apr 2026 09:55:45 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260410083114.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260409101059.htm Dragonflies may see the world in a way that pushes beyond human limits—and surprisingly, they do it using the same molecular trick we evolved ourselves. Scientists discovered that these insects can detect extremely deep red light, even edging into near-infrared, thanks to a specialized visual protein strikingly similar to the one in human eyes. This ability likely helps them spot mates mid-flight by picking up subtle differences in reflected light. Thu, 09 Apr 2026 10:10:59 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260409101059.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260408225950.htm Chronic inflammation often works quietly in the background but can fuel serious diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. New research reveals that everyday plant compounds—like menthol from mint, cineole from eucalyptus, and capsaicin from chili peppers—can team up inside immune cells to dramatically boost their anti-inflammatory power. While individual compounds showed modest effects, certain combinations amplified results hundreds of times over by activating different cellular pathways at once. Thu, 09 Apr 2026 02:57:22 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260408225950.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260407073850.htm Vitamin D levels in midlife may play a bigger role in long-term brain health than previously thought. In a study following nearly 800 people over 16 years, those with higher vitamin D levels in their 30s and 40s had lower levels of tau protein later on, a key marker linked to dementia. Tue, 07 Apr 2026 07:47:09 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260407073850.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260406192907.htm A surprising new study reveals that what you eat could play a powerful role in fighting cholera, a deadly diarrheal disease. Researchers found that diets rich in certain proteins—especially casein from dairy and wheat gluten—can dramatically reduce the ability of cholera bacteria to take hold in the gut, in some cases cutting infection levels by up to 100 times. These proteins appear to disable a key “weapon” the bacteria use to attack other microbes and dominate the gut environment. Tue, 07 Apr 2026 03:22:01 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260406192907.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260406192811.htm Your brain’s “stop eating” signal may come from an unexpected source. Researchers found that astrocytes—once thought to just support neurons—actually play a key role in controlling appetite. After a meal, glucose triggers tanycytes, which send signals to astrocytes that then activate fullness neurons. This newly discovered pathway could lead to innovative treatments for obesity and eating disorders. Mon, 06 Apr 2026 19:28:11 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260406192811.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260404082652.htm Many people think that occasional binge drinking is harmless if they otherwise drink in moderation, but new research suggests that assumption may be dangerously wrong. A large U.S. study found that people with metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), a condition affecting about one in three adults, face a much higher risk of serious liver scarring if they engage in heavy drinking even just once a month. Sat, 04 Apr 2026 08:29:44 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260404082652.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260402042803.htm Scientists have discovered a way to make French fries less greasy without ruining their taste. By combining regular frying with microwave heating, they reduce the amount of oil absorbed during cooking. The key lies in pressure inside the food—microwaves help push oil out instead of letting it seep in. The result: faster cooking, lower fat, and fries that can still stay crispy. Thu, 02 Apr 2026 19:15:35 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260402042803.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260402042751.htm A new clinical trial suggests that what people eat could finally offer real relief for Crohn’s disease, a condition that has long lacked clear dietary guidance. Researchers found that a “fasting-mimicking diet” — involving just five days a month of very low-calorie, plant-based meals — led to noticeable improvements in symptoms for most participants. Even more striking, the diet didn’t just make patients feel better; it also reduced key biological markers of inflammation linked to the disease. Fri, 03 Apr 2026 04:55:54 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260402042751.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260402000229.htm A new study suggests that one of the most widely used health metrics, BMI, may be getting it wrong for a large portion of the population. By comparing BMI classifications with precise body fat measurements using advanced DXA scans, researchers found that more than one-third of adults were placed in incorrect weight categories. Many people labeled as overweight or obese did not actually have the corresponding body fat levels, while others were missed entirely. Fri, 03 Apr 2026 00:19:13 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260402000229.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260401071940.htm Hara hachi bu, a traditional Japanese practice of eating until you’re about 80% full, is gaining attention as a simple yet powerful way to improve health and reshape our relationship with food. Rather than promoting strict dieting, it encourages slowing down, tuning into hunger cues, and eating with awareness and gratitude. Research suggests it may help reduce calorie intake, support healthier food choices, and prevent long-term weight gain. Wed, 01 Apr 2026 07:19:40 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260401071940.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260401071931.htm A surprising new study suggests that genetics may change how diet affects brain health—especially when it comes to Alzheimer’s risk. Researchers found that older adults carrying high-risk APOE gene variants didn’t show the expected cognitive decline if they ate relatively high amounts of meat. In fact, those with these genes who consumed the most meat had slower cognitive decline and lower dementia risk, challenging conventional dietary advice. Thu, 02 Apr 2026 13:54:07 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260401071931.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260331034337.htm Salt substitutes offer a simple, low-cost way to reduce sodium intake and improve blood pressure, yet very few Americans actually use them—even among those who need them most. A large national analysis spanning nearly two decades found that usage remains surprisingly low and has not improved over time. Researchers say this gap represents a major missed opportunity for preventing heart disease and stroke. Tue, 31 Mar 2026 06:57:40 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260331034337.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260330233401.htm A dramatic surge in kratom-related poison center calls is raising alarm among health experts, as new data shows cases have jumped more than 1,200% over the past decade. Alongside the spike, hospitalizations and deaths linked to the widely available drug have also climbed sharply, driven in part by stronger, unregulated products now sold across the U.S. While kratom has traditional uses for pain relief and mood support, modern formulations can carry serious risks, especially when mixed with other substances. Mon, 30 Mar 2026 23:57:45 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260330233401.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260330233357.htm A new study suggests that simplifying your diet by eating the same meals and keeping your calorie intake consistent could help you lose more weight. Researchers found that people who followed predictable eating routines during a 12-week program lost more weight than those who constantly changed what they ate. By reducing daily food decisions, routines may make it easier to stick with healthy habits in a world full of tempting options. Mon, 30 Mar 2026 23:45:16 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260330233357.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328043602.htm What teens eat might matter more for their mental health than previously thought. A sweeping review of nearly 20 studies found that healthier diets are often linked to fewer depressive symptoms, while poor eating habits may go hand in hand with greater psychological distress. Interestingly, focusing on whole dietary patterns—not just individual nutrients—showed more consistent benefits, suggesting that overall eating habits could play a meaningful role during this critical stage of brain development. Sun, 29 Mar 2026 04:02:35 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328043602.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328024519.htm Scientists have uncovered how your body actually tells your brain to stop eating when you’re sick. In a new study, researchers found that specialized cells in the gut detect parasites and send signals that ultimately trigger the brain to suppress appetite. This process builds over time, explaining why you may feel fine at first but then suddenly lose interest in food as an infection takes hold. Sat, 28 Mar 2026 04:35:02 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328024519.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328024515.htm Scientists have identified a key biological system that helps brown fat burn energy by building the networks it needs to function. A protein called SLIT3 splits into two parts, with each piece guiding the growth of blood vessels and nerves inside brown fat. These structures allow the tissue to pull in nutrients and rapidly convert them into heat instead of storing them as fat. Sat, 28 Mar 2026 03:19:56 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328024515.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260326075559.htm Having both excess belly fat and low muscle mass isn’t just unhealthy—it’s potentially deadly, raising the risk of death by 83%. This condition, called sarcopenic obesity, creates a vicious cycle where fat accelerates muscle breakdown and inflammation. Researchers found it can be identified using simple measurements, not costly medical tests. That means earlier detection—and a real chance to intervene before serious decline sets in. Fri, 27 Mar 2026 01:23:23 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260326075559.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260326075552.htm A new study reveals that high doses of antioxidants—often seen as harmless or beneficial—may actually impact future generations. Male mice given common supplements like NAC produced offspring with subtle but significant facial and skull changes. Researchers believe this is tied to altered sperm DNA, even though the fathers showed no outward health issues. Fri, 27 Mar 2026 08:41:19 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260326075552.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260325005908.htm Flower nectar often contains small amounts of alcohol, meaning pollinators like hummingbirds are drinking it all day long. Despite consuming human-equivalent amounts, they show no signs of intoxication—suggesting a surprising evolutionary tolerance. Wed, 25 Mar 2026 07:05:29 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260325005908.htm