Protein sources change the gut microbiome — some drastically
A new study by researchers from North Carolina State University shows that protein sources in an animal’s diet can have major effects on both the population and function of the microscopic life within their gut. These microorganisms, known as the gut microbiome, can impact various aspects of our health. The findings could help lead to […]
Ancient ‘chewing gum’ reveals stone age diet
What did people eat on the west coast of Scandinavia 10,000 years ago? A new study of the DNA in a chewing gum shows that deer, trout and hazelnuts were on the diet. It also shows that one of the individuals had severe problems with her teeth. Some 9,700 years ago, a group of people […]
Specific genetic variant may help prevent obesity
A preclinical study by Weill Cornell Medicine investigators shows that a specific human genetic variant of a receptor that stimulates insulin release may help individuals be more resistant to obesity. The researchers discovered that this variant behaves differently in the cell which may contribute to more efficient metabolism. The study, posted online in Molecular Metabolism […]
Mice eating less of specific amino acid — overrepresented in diet of obese people — live longer, healthier
A new study in mice, published recently in the journal Cell Metabolism, shows that cutting down the amount of a single amino acid called isoleucine can, among other benefits, extend their lifespan, make them leaner and less frail as they age and reduce cancer and prostate problems, all while the mice ate more calories. There’s […]
Practicing mindfulness can help people make heart-healthy eating choices
Practicing mindfulness focused on healthy eating can be good for the heart, a new study shows, because it improves self-awareness and helps people stick to a heart-healthy diet. When people who had elevated blood pressure participated in an eight-week mindfulness-based blood pressure reduction program for the study, they significantly improved their scores on measures of […]
Think You Have COVID? Here’s The Best Way To Test Yourself Now.
agrobacter via Getty Images Data shows we should be testing ourselves for COVID later than we might think. It’s that time of year again. Upper respiratory infections like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza and COVID are rising — and we’re only just getting started. The signs and symptoms of these infections can be quite similar […]
How Much Cinnamon Is Too Much? Experts Reveal Some Surprising Pros And Cons
Cavan Images / Dorene Hookey via Getty Images Research shows that cinnamon can be good for your health. Like the latest love interest of Taylor Swift, who’s poised for superstardom, cinnamon is the standout spice of the fall. Rising above nutmeg, cloves and ginger in a pumpkin spice blend, it promises more than just great […]
Exercise-mimicking drug sheds weight, boosts muscle activity in mice
A brand-new kind of drug, tested in mice, shows promising new results that could lead to the development of a new weight-loss drug that mimics exercise. The new compound, developed and tested by a University of Florida professor of pharmacy and his colleagues, leads obese mice to lose weight by convincing the body’s muscles that […]
‘Smart’ drugs can decrease productivity in people who don’t have ADHD, study finds
New research from the University of Cambridge and the University of Melbourne, published in Science Advances, shows neurotypical workers and students taking cognitive enhancers, or ‘smart’ drugs, may actually be inhibiting their performance and productivity. Drugs such as methylphenidate, sold under the brand name Ritalin among others, are commonly prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder […]
Water arsenic including in public water is linked to higher urinary arsenic totals among the U.S. population: Highest concentrations found in the West and South and among Mexican American and other Hispanic participants
A new study by researchers at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health shows that water arsenic levels are linked to higher urinary arsenic among the U.S. population for users of both private wells and public water systems. The findings are published in the journal Environmental Research. Long-term exposure to arsenic even at low and […]