Food provides the building blocks for our mental and physical health. New research reveals that many common foods supply key neurotransmitters that regulate brain and nervous system function. Understanding how our diet provides these crucial molecules opens up possibilities for supporting brain health through food. Key Facts: Foods contain the same neurotransmitters used by the …
Insects are increasingly being recognized as a nutritious and eco-friendly alternative protein source that could help feed the world’s growing population. Recent research highlights the nutritional benefits of insects, their potential use as food ingredients, health-promoting bioactive compounds, impact of processing, barriers to adoption, and considerations around safety and regulation. Key Facts: Over 2,000 insect …
Edible insects offer immense potential as a sustainable and nutritious protein source that could help feed the growing global population. Key facts: Nearly 2 billion people worldwide already eat insects as part of their diet and culture. Insects require far less resources (land, water, feed) to produce the same amount of protein as livestock. Farm-raised …
Vegetable oils are an essential part of a healthy diet, providing essential fatty acids and other beneficial nutrients. A new comprehensive review analyzes the chemical composition and health benefits of 39 different vegetable oils. Key Facts: Vegetable oils contain fatty acids, vitamins, plant sterols, antioxidants that promote health. Different oils have unique nutritional profiles and …
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 …
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 …
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, …
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 …
Genetically modified (GM) crops have become a major topic of debate in agriculture and food systems. They involve altering an organism’s DNA to introduce new traits not originally present. While proponents argue GM crops can help feed the world and benefit the environment, critics have raised concerns about potential ecological and health risks. Key Facts …
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 …
