Eating more plant protein may lower the risk of heart disease as much as 27%
“A recent study examined the potential effects that consuming different forms of protein may have on heart health. The researchers were interested in the ratio of plant vs. animal-based protein people consumed and their long-term health outcomes. The researchers learned that consuming a higher ratio of plant to animal protein could lead to a reduction of both coronary heart disease (CHD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD).”
Nutritional Immunology Across the Lifespan
“Special Issue Published in The Journal of Nutrition
Diet plays a critical role in regulating immunity in health and disease across the lifespan. In particular, recent discoveries from basic mechanistic research, epidemiological analyses, behavioral studies, and clinical trials provide increasing evidence that specific dietary patterns and nutrients program innate and adaptive immunity. Thus, diet is a major modifiable target for intervention to improve immunological responses.”
Poor Diets May Increase Risk of Gastrointestinal Cancer
“In the recent study, the researchers discovered that diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, legumes, and dairy were potentially protective against gastrointestinal cancers. The findings supported the World Cancer Research Fund and American Institute for Cancer Research guidelines that advocate for diets rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and legumes—while limiting red and processed meats, sugary drinks, and processed foods.”
Short bursts of vigorous activity may lower cardiovascular risk in women
“Short bursts of incidental vigorous physical exertion, lasting less than a minute each, may almost halve the risk of a major cardiovascular event, such as heart attack or heart failure among women who don’t exercise regularly, finds research published online in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.”
New survey finds 56% say ‘alone time’ is vital to their mental health
“COLUMBUS, Ohio – Some say the holidays are the most wonderful time of the year. But for others, the hectic holiday season may be the most stressful. A new national survey of 1,000 Americans commissioned by The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and College of Medicine shows that 46% of Americans say they don’t get the alone time they need during the holidays.”
Research reveals how fructose in diet enhances tumor growth
“Fructose consumption has increased considerably over the past five decades, largely due to the widespread use of high-fructose corn syrup as a sweetener in beverages and ultra-processed foods. New research from Washington University in St. Louis shows that dietary fructose promotes tumor growth in animal models of melanoma, breast cancer and cervical cancer. However, fructose does not directly fuel tumors, according to the study published Dec. 4 in the journal Nature. Instead, WashU scientists discovered that the liver converts fructose into usable nutrients for cancer cells, a compelling finding that could open up new avenues for care and treatment of many different types of cancer.”
How sweet! A daily dose of dark chocolate may cut your risk of diabetes
“The idea that eating cocoa-rich, dark chocolate may offer health benefits is not new. Cocoa is loaded with compounds called polyphenols that have been shown to help our bodies fend off inflammation, lower blood pressure and maybe even improve our moods. Now, a new study finds people who have a habit of eating a little dark chocolate — about an ounce per day — have a 21% lower risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, compared to people who don’t consume it.”
Ultraprocessed Foods Account for More than Half of Calories Consumed at Home
“A new analysis led by researchers at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that more than half of calories consumed at home by adults in the U.S. come from ultraprocessed foods. Ultraprocessed foods contain substances with little or no nutritional value, such as colorings, emulsifiers, artificial flavors, and sweeteners. Examples cover a wide range of products, from chips and hot dogs to prepackaged meals. Researchers have long understood that a substantial proportion of the U.S. diet comes from ultraprocessed foods but it was not clearly understood where those calories were consumed.”
Public Health at Work in Uncertain Times
“The day made clear that, even in uncertain times, it’s through evidence-based tactics and strategies, combined with indefatigable passion and dedication, that public health work gets done.”
Scientific Report of 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee Now Available Online
“WASHINGTON, Dec. 10, 2024 — The Scientific Report of the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee is now available on DietaryGuidelines.gov. The report contains the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee’s (Committee) independent, evidence-based findings and advice to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The Scientific Report, alongside public comments and federal agency input, will inform the two departments as they develop the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025-2030, which is expected to be published in late 2025.”
Walking Daily May Add Years to Your Life—But You Should Aim for This Speed
“A recent study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that the most active American adults walk the equivalent of 160 minutes per day at about 3 mph. According to the findings, if the least active adults walked an extra 111 minutes at this pace each day, they could extend their lives by almost 11 years. Setting the treadmill to 3 mph and walking for 111 minutes won’t magically add that extra decade to your life. But, finding ways to make walking—or other moderate-intensity exercises—part of your regular routine can help improve your lifelong health.”
