Why do we do things that are bad for us—or not do things that are good for us—even in light of overwhelming evidence? As someone with a long career in pharmacy, I have witnessed some pretty dramatic shifts in public health behavior. But I won’t sugarcoat it. It generally takes years—or even decades—of dragging people, […]
The time period between Thanksgiving and Christmas is characterized by overindulgence. While we tell others that we are eating and drinking in moderation, controlling our spending, and exercising more, in reality, we do the exact opposite. So where does this disconnect come from? Often when responding to questions about sensitive behaviors (for example, weight gain, […]
As temperatures fall, honey’s popularity tends to rise. Whether used as an ingredient in autumn recipes and holiday desserts, added to a celebratory cocktail or given to ease a child’s cough, it certainly satisfies a sweet tooth. Although marketers may tout honey as a healthy alternative to regular sugar because of its antioxidant content, experts […]
Australian researchers have discovered the gut microbiome—a complex ecosystem of microorganisms made up of bacteria, viruses, fungi and other life forms—is selected and starts developing as early as five months in utero. The gut microbiome is vital for survival and has been linked to digestion, brain and heart health, weight control, and reduced blood sugar. […]
Spending long periods of time in space can wreak havoc on space traveler health, including negative effects on metabolism, bone and muscle health, gastrointestinal health, immunity and mental health. This could prevent us pursuing long-distance missions, such as a Mars landing. However, a new review in open-access journal Frontiers in Physiology highlights that promoting a […]
News broke today that the NHS will begin offering a prescribed diet of shakes and soups to those with type 2 diabetes. NHS England announced the plan today, saying that 5,000 diabetic people would be offered the diet in order to help them ‘to help people stay well, maintain a healthy weight and avoid major […]
Before you think of taking a vitamin D substitute, know that the sun is the best source. Everybody needs a change of routine, as monotony can lead to many problems. Many countries around the world have urged people to stay home and not step outside, until absolutely necessary, so as to flatten the curve and […]
Engaging in family meals may be a matter of improving communication and support at home. A new study in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior, connects less family discouragement and better family communication with a higher likelihood to eat evening family meals and family breakfasts together, and not in front of a television. Researchers […]
At the lesser end of the spectrum, we’ve all experienced the discomfort of bloating, while “leaky gut syndrome” (when the intestinal barrier becomes damaged and lets toxins and bacteria into the bloodstream) is believed to be one cause of conditions ranging from acne to autoimmune diseases. Nowadays it seems there’s no end to fad foods […]
The Government is being urged to launch an urgent mass public messaging campaign promoting how healthy eating can boost the body’s immune system against the threat of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, by three leading food specialists. Professors Tim Lang of City, University of London, Erik Millstone of the University of Sussex Business School and Terry […]
