US population data from 2011-16 show that teenagers with diets high in ultra-processed foods and drinks, vs those with the lowest intakes, were 45% more likely to be obese, 52% more likely to have abdominal obesity (excess fat around the waist) and 63% more likely to have visceral obesity (excess fat on and around the abdominal organs), which correlates closely with risks for cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.
We already have significant evidence on the associations between nutrition and mental well-being, and there is also preliminary evidence showing that some people with depression will have fewer symptoms when they improve the quality of their diet. The importance of nutrition is also gaining footing in psychiatric care.
While there is some controversy around the effect of salt on blood pressure, most of the literature indicates there is a progressive association, which means the more sodium you consume, the more likely you are to die prematurely.
40 health organisations, academics and food groups are today (6 April) calling on the Government to stop delaying publication of the final report of the voluntary industry Sugar Reduction Programme
Foods high in sugar, refined flour or saturated fats activate inflammation, which is strongly linked to depression.
There is overwhelming evidence demonstrating the impact of food and diet on health, specifically among food-related diseases. Whether or not a poor diet can cause damage to the body should no longer be debated.
This review strengthens the hypothesis that the cognitive effects of caffeine found in animal models could be translated to human ADHD, particularly during adolescence.
People who consume sugar and other carbohydrates in excess over a long period of time have an increased risk of developing an autoimmune disease
A series of studies have found that improving prisoners’ nutrition reduces incidents of violence by, on average, 30 per cent.
Researchers have been able to directly link a stress factor in the brain to the cell's recycling system and obesity.
Unravelling the mysteries of nutrigenomics is likely to empower both present and future societies and generations.
Selenium—a mineral found in many foods—could reverse the cognitive impact of stroke and boost learning and memory in ageing brains, according to new research
This study suggests that daily maternal intake of sweetened carbonated drinks could be linked to a small increase in ADHD symptoms in offspring at eight years of age
Brain diseases, including Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia, are closely connected to heart health.
This is the first direct evidence that daily supplementation may reduce Autoimmune disease incidence.
Could COVID be causing parosmia—a symptom where people experience strange and often unpleasant smell distortions?
A new study investigates the link between consuming sweeteners during pregnancy and a child's risk of obesity. Pregnant rats fed with stevia or aspartame gave birth to pups that had a higher risk of obesity and specific changes in their gut microbiome. The findings highlight the importance of maternal nutrition during pregnancy.
Many people struggle with sugar cravings, and now we have a better understanding of how the gut senses sugars (and why artificial sweeteners don't curb those cravings)
A neuroscientist explains how research indicates that consumption of sugary food is associated with mental distress – such as anxiety and depression – and disrupted sleep.
Plant-based meats are often high in sodium, ultra-processed and not any healthier than the meat they imitate