While regulatory agencies consider MSG safe, some studies have questioned its health effects. Key Facts: MSG provides umami taste and enhances palatability as a flavor enhancer Animal studies link high dose MSG to cardiotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, neurotoxicity, endocrine and reproductive effects Human trials show MSG increases palatability, especially of protein-rich foods, and enhances satiety Currently no …
Fluoride is added to drinking water and dental products to help prevent tooth decay. However, emerging research suggests fluoride exposure in early childhood may have detrimental effects on brain development and other aspects of health. This raises concerns about the risks versus benefits of fluoride, especially for pregnant women and young children. Key Facts: Fluoride …
Tattoos have become increasingly mainstream in recent decades, with estimates suggesting up to 40% of adults in the US now have at least one tattoo. However, tattoos have historically been associated with risky behaviors and negative health outcomes. New research examines whether these associations still hold true as tattoos gain broader cultural acceptance. Key facts: …
Fluoride has revolutionized dentistry with its ability to prevent tooth decay, but concerns remain about potential adverse health effects from over-exposure. Key Facts: Fluoride was discovered in 1901 to cause brown stains on teeth, later found to make teeth resistant to decay Grand Rapids, Michigan became the first city to fluoridate drinking water in 1945, …
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 …
