Anorexia vs. bulimia: What’s the difference?
Anorexia nervosa and bulimia are both eating disorders in which a person tries to lose weight in unhealthful ways. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, about 0.6% of…
How can we reduce our exposure to potentially harmful aluminum?
A new report carried out by German officials suggests that even though exposure to dangerous aluminum compounds in foods has been decreasing, we are still ingesting more of this substance…
Which supplements can lower blood pressure?
High blood pressure is a common issue. A person can reduce their blood pressure by following a healthful diet, exercising, and avoiding smoking. Can taking dietary supplements, including vitamins, minerals,…
Does turmeric have anticancer properties?
A recent literature review investigates whether turmeric may be useful for treating cancer. The authors conclude that it might be but note that there are many challenges to overcome before…
Sugar alters brain chemistry after only 12 days
New research in pigs finds that sugar intake alters the reward-processing circuitry of the brain in a similar way to addictive drugs. Whenever we learn something new or experience something…
Common foods alter gut bacteria by influencing viruses
A group of researchers has brought the idea of food as a medicine one step closer. They have identified certain common foodstuffs that alter our microbiome. In science today, food…
Older adults who drink tea are less likely to be depressed
Previous research has suggested that there is a link between depression and tea drinking. Now, a new study is investigating this relationship further. Depression is common among older adults, with…
Online information about probiotics often misleading
As probiotics grow in popularity, a recent study investigates the reliability of online information. They find that the majority of “top” websites provide information that lacks scientific evidence. As scientists…
Could a probiotic prevent or reverse Parkinson’s?
A new study using a roundworm model of Parkinson’s disease found that a probiotic bacterium could prevent, and in some cases reverse, toxic protein buildup. Misfolded alpha-synuclein proteins in the…
Saliva’s role in oral health
When you think about oral health, you probably think about your gums and teeth. After all, Americans spent $1.6 billion on toothpaste in 1998. The survey also concluded that Americans…