Eating large amounts of ultra-processed foods may increase the risk of obesity, heart disease, stroke, depression, and early death, according to a new systematic review and meta-analysis. Key Facts: Ultra-processed foods are industrial formulations made with ingredients extracted from foods or synthesized in labs. Examples include chips, soft drinks, instant noodles, chicken nuggets, and frozen …
Humans and other complex organisms face a constant barrage of new harmful genetic mutations, yet somehow manage to persist and evolve despite this mutational load. New research reveals how populations can survive this onslaught through a delicate balancing act between bad and good mutations. Key Facts: Each person inherits around 2-10 new harmful mutations from …
Pesticides are chemical substances commonly used in agriculture to eliminate pests and enhance crop yields. However, indiscriminate use of pesticides has raised concerns about potential toxicity and adverse health effects in humans. Key Facts: Pesticide exposure is linked to neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and psychiatric conditions including depression and suicide. Exposure can …
A new randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial provides evidence that a green coffee bean extract standardized to chlorogenic acids (CGA-7) can help with weight loss in healthy overweight adults. Key facts: CGA-7 supplementation for 12 weeks resulted in significant reductions in body weight, BMI, body fat percentage and fat mass compared to placebo. Improvements were …
Recent research suggests that adjusting overall diet, rather than taking supplements, may help improve symptoms of depression. Whole food and whole diet interventions show promise as adjunctive treatments for depression, though more research is still needed. Key Facts: 7 studies with over 49,000 participants found that whole food or whole diet interventions reduced depression symptoms …
Depression is a major global health issue, but diet may be an effective yet overlooked treatment approach. New research identifies the top food sources of 12 key nutrients that help prevent and treat depression. Oysters, organ meats, leafy greens, lettuces, peppers and cruciferous veggies pack the biggest nutritional antidepressant punch. Key facts: Depression is the …
Eating well may help prevent and treat depression, according to growing evidence from studies on diet and mental health. Key facts: Following an overall healthy diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and olive oil is associated with a lower risk of depression. A “Western” diet high in processed foods, fried foods, sugary foods, …
Intelligence predicts health and mortality – but why? New research reveals some genes are implicated in both. Key facts: Intelligence test scores predict mortality, illnesses, and health behaviors. Higher scores indicate lower risk. Both intelligence and health/disease outcomes are highly polygenic – many genetic variants of small effect contribute. Genetic correlations exist between intelligence and …
Nutrition plays a major role in mental health, with diet quality closely linked to risk of common mental disorders like depression. This review comprehensively analyzes recent research on the impacts of nutrition on mental health and the use of nutritional interventions in treating psychiatric conditions. Key Facts: Poor diet is a major risk factor for …
A new study finds that adolescents who identify as multiracial face greater health and behavior risks compared to peers who identify with one race. Key findings show mixed-race youth have higher rates of health issues, substance use, suicidal thoughts, sexual activity, and school discipline problems. Researchers analyzed self-reported race data from over 80,000 7th-12th graders …
