Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a common food additive used to enhance flavor. But there have been long-standing concerns that MSG could be harmful to the brain. Key Facts: MSG is the sodium salt of glutamate, an amino acid that functions as an excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain. In the 1970s, studies in mice linked injections …
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a popular food additive used to enhance flavor in processed foods. But some evidence suggests MSG may have negative health effects, particularly on the brain. Natural products like herbs and vitamins may help counteract MSG’s toxic effects. Key Facts: MSG is a sodium salt added to foods to improve taste. It’s …
A new systematic review published in BMC Geriatrics suggests that supplementing with medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) may provide cognitive benefits for older adults without dementia. MCTs are a type of fatty acid found in foods like coconut oil and palm kernel oil that may help provide the brain with an alternative energy source. Key Facts: MCT …
Medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) are a type of dietary fat that may enhance brain function, according to new research. Key facts: MCTs are absorbed more rapidly than other fats and can provide the brain with quick energy. Past studies show MCTs improve cognition in elderly and cognitively impaired people. This study tested effects in healthy …
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a growing global health concern, but current drug therapies have shown limited effectiveness for symptom management and disease modification. Medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) have emerged as a potential nutritional therapy, but evidence remains inconclusive. Key Facts: MCTs may provide an alternative brain fuel source and reduce AD biomarkers like amyloid-beta. Small …
Aspartame is one of the most widely used artificial sweeteners in the world, but there are conflicting views on its safety and health effects. Key Facts: Aspartame is about 200 times sweeter than sugar but contains minimal calories. It is commonly used in diet sodas and other sugar-free products. When digested, aspartame breaks down into …
Aspartame is an artificial sweetener found in over 6,000 food products. While it provides a sweet taste without calories, emerging research suggests aspartame may negatively impact brain health and function. Key Facts: Aspartame is made up of phenylalanine, aspartic acid, and methanol. High levels of these metabolites may cause neurophysiological issues. Studies link aspartame to …
A new study published in PLOS Medicine has found associations between consumption of artificial sweeteners, particularly aspartame and acesulfame potassium, and increased risk of overall cancer as well as breast and obesity-related cancers. Key findings: Higher consumers of artificial sweeteners had a 13% increased risk of overall cancer compared to non-consumers. Aspartame intake was associated …
Theobromine, an ingredient found in chocolate, may impact mood and depression risk. But the details are complicated. Here’s what the science says so far. Key Facts: A recent study found higher theobromine intake was associated with increased depression risk. However, some experts argue the study had limitations in how it measured depression and theobromine intake. …
Research shows that getting the right amount of the vitamin niacin may help lower the risk of depression. Niacin is one of the B vitamins and is also known as vitamin B3. Consuming too little or too much niacin appears tied to higher odds of depression, suggesting an optimal niacin intake level for depression prevention. …
