Microplastics, the tiny plastic particles polluting our environment, are increasingly being linked to potential adverse health effects in humans. Here’s what you need to know about this emerging public health issue. Key Facts: Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5 mm that are widespread pollutants in the environment. They come from the breakdown of larger …
A new study has uncovered an interconnected nexus between state IQ and well-being across the 50 U.S. states. Key findings show that states with higher average IQ tend to have better well-being outcomes across areas like health, income, education and crime. Some key facts: State IQ strongly predicts well-being – they correlated 0.80 in the …
Plastic particles are rapidly accumulating in the environment and making their way into the food chain, raising concerns over potential impacts on human health. A new study provides alarming evidence that tiny plastic particles can cross into the brain shortly after being ingested. Key findings: Polystyrene micro- and nanoparticles ranging from 0.3 to 10 microns …
A new study published in Environmental Health suggests fluoride exposure may disrupt normal sleep patterns and contribute to daytime sleepiness in U.S. teenagers. The research found associations between higher fluoride levels and symptoms of sleep apnea, later bedtimes, and excessive daytime tiredness. While more studies are needed, the findings add to evidence that fluoride may …
Genetically modified (GM) crops provide numerous health benefits beyond higher crop yields, including reduced pesticide poisonings, lower suicide rates, decreased cancer risk, and improved childhood nutrition. While GM crops are controversial, the technology has already prevented millions of pesticide poisonings and suicides globally. As GM crops continue to be adopted, particularly in developing countries, they …
Erythritol, a common sugar substitute, was recently linked to increased risk of cardiovascular events in a large study. However, there are several important limitations that prevent drawing definitive conclusions. Key Facts: A large 2023 study found associations between higher blood erythritol levels and increased cardiovascular risk. However, causation cannot be proven. Erythritol occurs naturally in …
A new Canadian study suggests fluoride exposure may be associated with sleeping fewer hours than recommended for optimal health. Key findings include: Higher levels of fluoride in tap water were associated with a 34% increased risk of sleeping less than recommended. The association remained after adjusting for factors like age, BMI, income, ethnicity, and health …
A new systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that swapping out sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) for low- and no-calorie sweetened beverages (LNCSBs) may support modest weight loss and improve certain cardiometabolic factors. The study found that LNCSBs offer similar benefits to water, the standard substitution recommended by health authorities. Key findings: Replacing SSBs with LNCSBs was linked …
Genetically modified (GM) foods have been around since the 1990s and are becoming increasingly common in our food supply. While proponents point to the agricultural and nutritional benefits of GM crops, concerns remain about their safety and environmental impact. What are GMO Foods? Genetically modified (GM) foods have had their DNA altered through genetic engineering …
Microplastics and nanoplastics are increasingly prevalent in our environment and food system, raising concerns about their impact on human health. A new review of the scientific literature explores the potential for these tiny plastic particles to negatively affect brain health. Key facts: Microplastics are 0.1-5mm in size, nanoplastics are smaller than 0.1mm. They come from …
