https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/health_medicine/food_additives/ Read the latest research on food additives and preservatives including their effect on human health. en-us Tue, 21 Apr 2026 00:15:09 EDT Tue, 21 Apr 2026 00:15:09 EDT 60 https://www.sciencedaily.com/images/scidaily-logo-rss.png https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/health_medicine/food_additives/ For more science news, visit ScienceDaily. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260417225020.htm Engineers at Northwestern University have taken a striking leap toward merging machines with the human brain by printing artificial neurons that can actually communicate with real ones. These flexible, low-cost devices generate lifelike electrical signals capable of activating living brain cells, a breakthrough demonstrated in mouse brain tissue. Sat, 18 Apr 2026 03:32:36 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260417225020.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260417001658.htm Sparkling water is often seen as a simple, healthy drink—but could it also help with weight loss? New research suggests it may slightly boost how the body processes blood sugar and energy. However, the effect is very small, meaning it’s no substitute for diet and exercise. Fri, 17 Apr 2026 03:17:58 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260417001658.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260408225950.htm Chronic inflammation often works quietly in the background but can fuel serious diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. New research reveals that everyday plant compounds—like menthol from mint, cineole from eucalyptus, and capsaicin from chili peppers—can team up inside immune cells to dramatically boost their anti-inflammatory power. While individual compounds showed modest effects, certain combinations amplified results hundreds of times over by activating different cellular pathways at once. Thu, 09 Apr 2026 02:57:22 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260408225950.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260331034337.htm Salt substitutes offer a simple, low-cost way to reduce sodium intake and improve blood pressure, yet very few Americans actually use them—even among those who need them most. A large national analysis spanning nearly two decades found that usage remains surprisingly low and has not improved over time. Researchers say this gap represents a major missed opportunity for preventing heart disease and stroke. Tue, 31 Mar 2026 06:57:40 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260331034337.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260331001054.htm A breakthrough urine test could dramatically speed up how doctors treat urinary tract infections, identifying the right antibiotic in under six hours instead of waiting days. By testing directly from urine—skipping the usual lab culturing step—the method quickly shows which drugs stop bacterial growth and which don’t. In trials involving hundreds of patient samples, the test proved highly accurate, matching standard methods in over 96% of cases. Tue, 31 Mar 2026 01:45:05 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260331001054.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328065333.htm A widely used sugar substitute found in everything from keto snacks to diet drinks may not be as harmless as it seems. New research shows that erythritol can disrupt brain blood vessel cells, reducing their ability to relax, increasing harmful oxidative stress, and impairing the body’s ability to break down clots. These changes create conditions that could raise stroke risk, even at typical consumption levels. Sat, 28 Mar 2026 07:01:23 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328065333.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260318033111.htm Malaria parasites contain tiny spinning crystals that have puzzled scientists for years. New research reveals they’re powered by a rocket-like reaction that breaks down hydrogen peroxide, releasing energy. This motion may help the parasite detoxify harmful chemicals and manage iron more efficiently. The discovery could lead to new drugs and spark innovations in microscopic robotics. Thu, 19 Mar 2026 07:19:27 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260318033111.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260318033107.htm A new study suggests that eating less sweet food doesn’t make people crave it any less—or improve their health markers. Participants who increased or decreased sweetness in their diets showed no changes in preferences, weight, or disease risk. Many even returned to their old eating habits over time. Researchers say it may be time to rethink guidelines that focus on cutting sweetness instead of reducing sugar and calories. Thu, 19 Mar 2026 06:57:52 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260318033107.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260225081159.htm Popular acid reflux drugs such as Prilosec, Nexium, and Protonix may carry hidden risks when taken long term. A new study found that extended use disrupted iron and calcium levels in rats, changes associated with anemia and osteoporosis risk. Researchers also observed shifts in mineral balance across multiple organs. Experts say the medications are effective, but prolonged use without medical guidance could have unintended consequences. Thu, 26 Feb 2026 07:27:39 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260225081159.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260210040602.htm Ultra-processed foods are everywhere in the American diet, and researchers are finding alarming consequences. Using national health data, scientists found that adults with the highest intake of these foods had a 47% higher risk of heart attack or stroke. The results held even after accounting for age, smoking, and income. Experts say reducing ultra-processed foods could become as important to public health as cutting back on tobacco once was. Tue, 10 Feb 2026 22:31:12 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260210040602.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260131082433.htm Lowering salt in everyday foods could quietly save lives. Researchers found that modest sodium reductions in bread, packaged foods, and takeout meals could significantly reduce heart disease and stroke rates in France and the U.K. The key advantage is that people would not need to alter their eating habits at all. Small changes to the food supply could deliver large, long-term health benefits. Sat, 31 Jan 2026 09:27:42 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260131082433.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260127112132.htm Drinking tea, particularly green tea, is linked to better heart health, improved metabolism, and lower risks of chronic diseases like diabetes and cancer. It may also help protect the brain and preserve muscle strength as people age. However, processed teas—such as bottled and bubble varieties—often contain sugars and additives that may cancel out these benefits. Moderation and choosing freshly brewed tea appear key. Wed, 28 Jan 2026 04:59:07 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260127112132.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260127010154.htm A large French study tracking more than 100,000 people over a decade has found that higher consumption of certain food preservatives—commonly found in processed foods and drinks—is linked to a modestly higher cancer risk. While many preservatives showed no association, several widely used ones, including potassium sorbate, sulfites, sodium nitrite, and potassium nitrate, were tied to increased risks of overall cancer and specific types such as breast and prostate cancer. Tue, 27 Jan 2026 01:58:24 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260127010154.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260117053528.htm Thyme extract is packed with health-promoting compounds, but it is difficult to control and easy to waste. Researchers created a new technique that traps tiny amounts of the extract inside microscopic capsules, preventing evaporation and irritation. The method delivers consistent nanodoses and could eventually be used in medicines or food products. It may also work for many other natural extracts. Sat, 17 Jan 2026 09:48:30 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260117053528.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260115022808.htm A vitamin A byproduct has been found to quietly disarm the immune system, allowing tumors to evade attack and weakening cancer vaccines. Scientists have now developed a drug that shuts down this pathway, dramatically boosting immune responses and slowing cancer growth in preclinical studies. Fri, 16 Jan 2026 06:06:55 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260115022808.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260112214302.htm Scientists at Tufts have found a way to turn common glucose into a rare sugar that tastes almost exactly like table sugar—but with far fewer downsides. Using engineered bacteria as microscopic factories, the team can now produce tagatose efficiently and cheaply, achieving yields far higher than current methods. Tagatose delivers nearly the same sweetness as sugar with significantly fewer calories, minimal impact on blood sugar, and even potential benefits for oral and gut health. Tue, 13 Jan 2026 01:24:10 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260112214302.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260109080211.htm Foods that rely heavily on preservatives may be doing more than extending shelf life. In a large study spanning more than a decade, people with the highest intake of preservative additives were far more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. The increased risk appeared across many commonly used additives found in everyday processed foods. Researchers say the findings support advice to limit highly processed products when possible. Fri, 09 Jan 2026 08:16:05 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260109080211.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251225080732.htm Scientists discovered that common food emulsifiers consumed by mother mice altered their offspring’s gut microbiome from the very first weeks of life. These changes interfered with normal immune system training, leading to long-term inflammation. As adults, the offspring were more vulnerable to gut disorders and obesity. The findings suggest that food additives may have hidden, lasting effects beyond those who consume them directly. Fri, 26 Dec 2025 03:57:30 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251225080732.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251222044104.htm MIT scientists have achieved the first-ever lab synthesis of verticillin A, a complex fungal compound discovered in 1970. Its delicate structure stalled chemists for decades, despite differing from related molecules by only two atoms. With the synthesis finally complete, researchers created new variants that showed strong activity against a rare pediatric brain cancer. The breakthrough could unlock an entire class of previously unreachable cancer-fighting molecules. Mon, 22 Dec 2025 10:36:33 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251222044104.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251219093315.htm Researchers have revealed that so-called “junk DNA” contains powerful switches that help control brain cells linked to Alzheimer’s disease. By experimentally testing nearly 1,000 DNA switches in human astrocytes, scientists identified around 150 that truly influence gene activity—many tied to known Alzheimer’s risk genes. The findings help explain why many disease-linked genetic changes sit outside genes themselves. The resulting dataset is now being used to train AI systems to predict gene control more accurately. Fri, 19 Dec 2025 11:03:19 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251219093315.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251217082459.htm Sorbitol, a popular sugar-free sweetener, may not be as harmless as its label suggests. Researchers found it can be turned into fructose in the liver, triggering effects similar to regular sugar. Gut bacteria can neutralize some of it—but too much sorbitol or glucose can overwhelm that defense. The result: yet another “healthy” sweetener that may stress the liver. Wed, 17 Dec 2025 08:24:59 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251217082459.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251214100928.htm Researchers tracking over 63,000 adults found that high-quality, minimally processed plant foods significantly reduce cardiovascular risk. But when those plant foods are ultra-processed, the advantage disappears—and can even backfire. Some ultra-processed plant diets increased risk by 40%. The study urges a shift toward whole, naturally nutrient-rich plant foods. Mon, 15 Dec 2025 08:55:31 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251214100928.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251124025654.htm Ultra-processed foods are rapidly becoming a global dietary staple, and new research links them to worsening health outcomes around the world. Scientists say only bold, coordinated policy action can counter corporate influence and shift food systems toward healthier options. Mon, 24 Nov 2025 03:07:46 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251124025654.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251114041214.htm By reactivating a long-lost gene, researchers were able to lower uric acid levels and stop damaging fat accumulation in human liver models. The breakthrough hints at a future where gout and several metabolic diseases could be prevented at the genetic level. Fri, 14 Nov 2025 21:56:04 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251114041214.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251107010245.htm Almost 20% of packaged foods and beverages in the US contain synthetic dyes, often paired with excessive sugar to attract children. These additives have been linked to behavioral issues, yet remain widespread among major brands like Mars and PepsiCo. Experts criticize the FDA for relying on voluntary reform, contrasting it with Europe’s stricter labeling laws. Growing state-level action offers hope for meaningful change. Fri, 07 Nov 2025 03:18:58 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251107010245.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251104013006.htm A collaboration between Brazilian and German researchers has led to a sunflower-based meat substitute that’s high in protein and minerals. The new ingredient, made from refined sunflower flour, delivers excellent nutritional value and a mild flavor. Tests showed strong texture and healthy fat content, suggesting great potential for use in the growing plant-based food sector. Tue, 04 Nov 2025 07:40:46 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251104013006.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251103093005.htm Boston researchers linked nighttime light exposure to greater stress-related brain activity and inflamed arteries, signaling a higher risk of heart disease. The study suggests that artificial light at night disrupts normal stress responses, leading to chronic inflammation. Experts call for reducing unnecessary light in cities and homes to protect cardiovascular health. Mon, 03 Nov 2025 10:44:18 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251103093005.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251020092824.htm A massive brain imaging study of nearly 30,000 people has uncovered striking connections between eating ultra-processed foods and measurable changes in brain structure. These changes may be tied to overeating and addictive eating patterns, though scientists caution that more research is needed to confirm cause and effect. Mon, 20 Oct 2025 22:23:11 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251020092824.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251016223108.htm A long-term Australian study found that calcium supplements do not raise dementia risk in older women, countering previous fears. The research followed more than 1,400 participants for nearly 15 years and revealed no harmful cognitive effects. Scientists say these results should reassure those using calcium to prevent osteoporosis, though more research is needed across broader populations. Sat, 18 Oct 2025 02:44:39 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251016223108.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251002074011.htm Flu detection could soon be as simple as chewing gum. Scientists have created a molecular sensor that releases a thyme-like flavor when it encounters influenza, offering a low-tech, taste-based alternative to nasal swabs. Unlike current tests that are slow, costly, or miss early infections, this method could catch the flu before symptoms appear. Thu, 02 Oct 2025 07:40:11 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251002074011.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250927031219.htm Beer and wine, staples of human history for millennia, are still yielding new surprises. Recent research highlights how yeast extracts can cloud lagers, gluten can be quickly detected with a simple test strip, tannins give red wine its lip-puckering edge, and sulfites alter gut bacteria in unexpected ways. These discoveries not only deepen our understanding of these drinks’ sensory qualities but also hint at implications for health and brewing innovation. Sun, 28 Sep 2025 00:36:50 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250927031219.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250919085237.htm Despite strong evidence that salt substitutes can safely lower sodium intake and reduce high blood pressure, very few Americans use them. A new analysis of nearly 20 years of national health data found that usage peaked at just over 5% and then declined, even among those with hypertension. Researchers say this represents a major missed opportunity to improve heart health, especially since salt substitutes are inexpensive and effective. Sat, 20 Sep 2025 03:43:45 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250919085237.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250906013455.htm Sucralose, the sugar substitute in many diet products, may weaken cancer immunotherapy by altering gut bacteria and reducing arginine levels needed for immune cells. But supplementation with arginine or citrulline could counteract this effect, pointing to new clinical trial possibilities. Sat, 06 Sep 2025 12:20:50 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250906013455.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250904103923.htm A large Brazilian study following more than 12,000 middle-aged adults found that those consuming the most artificial sweeteners—commonly found in diet sodas, flavored waters, and processed snacks—experienced significantly faster declines in memory and thinking skills. The effect was equivalent to about 1.6 years of extra brain aging, with the strongest impact seen in people under 60 and those with diabetes. Thu, 04 Sep 2025 10:39:23 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250904103923.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250831010505.htm Drinking nitrate-rich beetroot juice lowered blood pressure in older adults by reshaping their oral microbiome, according to researchers at the University of Exeter. The study found that beneficial bacteria increased while harmful ones decreased, leading to better conversion of dietary nitrates into nitric oxide—a molecule vital for vascular health. Sun, 31 Aug 2025 04:35:09 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250831010505.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250825015638.htm Scientists have identified compounds that block bitter taste receptors activated by saccharin and acesulfame K. The most promising is (R)-(-)-carvone, which reduces bitterness without the cooling side effect of menthol, potentially making sugar-free products much more palatable. Mon, 25 Aug 2025 05:21:49 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250825015638.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250825015635.htm UBC researchers revealed that gut bacteria can digest cellulose-based food thickeners, once thought indigestible, by using enzymes activated by natural dietary fibers. This discovery suggests these common additives may play a more active role in our nutrition than previously believed. Mon, 25 Aug 2025 04:35:05 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250825015635.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250809101005.htm Many foods we consume today are ultraprocessed, packed with unhealthy ingredients, and linked to major health risks. As consumption of these foods rises, so do chronic health issues, especially among lower-income groups. Experts are calling for clearer guidelines, better research, and systemic changes to reduce the impact of ultraprocessed foods on public health. Sun, 10 Aug 2025 03:12:28 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250809101005.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250805041616.htm People eating minimally processed foods lost twice as much weight as those on ultra-processed diets, even though both diets were nutritionally balanced and participants could eat freely. This real-world, long-term study revealed that food processing itself—not just nutrients—plays a significant role in shaping body weight and health outcomes. Tue, 05 Aug 2025 10:14:49 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250805041616.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250729001208.htm A mysterious gut hormone may be behind many cases of chronic diarrhea, especially in people with undiagnosed bile acid malabsorption, a condition often mistaken for irritable bowel syndrome. Researchers from the University of Cambridge identified that the hormone INSL5 spikes when bile acid reaches the colon, triggering intense diarrhea. Their discovery not only sheds light on the biological cause of symptoms but opens the door to a diagnostic blood test and new treatment options, including a surprising existing drug that blocks this hormone’s effects. Tue, 29 Jul 2025 01:33:52 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250729001208.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250718035156.htm Erythritol, a widely used sugar substitute found in many low-carb and sugar-free products, may not be as harmless as once believed. New research from the University of Colorado Boulder reveals that even small amounts of erythritol can harm brain blood vessel cells, promoting constriction, clotting, and inflammation—all of which may raise the risk of stroke. Sat, 19 Jul 2025 10:49:54 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250718035156.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250714052231.htm Kids who consume artificial and natural sweeteners like aspartame, sucralose, and glycyrrhizin may face an increased risk of early puberty, especially if they carry specific genetic markers. This large-scale Taiwanese study links sweeteners to hormonal changes and gut bacteria imbalances that can speed up puberty, with effects differing between boys and girls. Early onset puberty has been tied to serious health consequences later in life, including emotional stress and metabolic disorders. The findings could reshape dietary recommendations and encourage genetic screening to mitigate long-term risks. Tue, 15 Jul 2025 02:16:28 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250714052231.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250705084253.htm Scientists have pioneered a new way to monitor sodium levels in the blood—without drawing a single drop. By combining terahertz radiation and optoacoustic detection, they created a non-invasive system that tracks sodium in real time, even through skin. The approach bypasses traditional barriers like water interference and opens up potential for fast, safe diagnostics in humans. Sun, 06 Jul 2025 04:16:03 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250705084253.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250621103446.htm A new study is turning heads by challenging the popular belief that seed oils are harmful to health. Researchers analyzed blood markers from nearly 1,900 people and found that higher levels of linoleic acid — an omega-6 fat commonly found in seed oils — were linked to lower inflammation and better cardiometabolic health. The study used direct biomarkers instead of diet surveys, making its findings more robust. These results support a growing body of evidence that seed oils, far from fueling disease, may actually help protect against heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Sat, 21 Jun 2025 10:34:46 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250621103446.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250612031705.htm In a bold challenge to silicon s long-held dominance in electronics, Penn State researchers have built the world s first working CMOS computer entirely from atom-thin 2D materials. Using molybdenum disulfide and tungsten diselenide, they fabricated over 2,000 transistors capable of executing logic operations on a computer free of traditional silicon. While still in early stages, this breakthrough hints at an exciting future of slimmer, faster, and dramatically more energy-efficient electronics powered by materials just one atom thick. Thu, 12 Jun 2025 03:17:05 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250612031705.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250528132235.htm An analysis of data from a national health survey conducted before the pandemic found that pizza, soup and chicken are some of the main sources of sodium (salt) intake for people in all racial and ethnic groups. The study also showed clear differences among adults based on race and ethnicity. Wed, 28 May 2025 13:22:35 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250528132235.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250528131843.htm Researchers find high-fat diets set off metabolic dysfunction in cells, leading to weight gain, but these effects can be reversed by treatment with an antioxidant. Wed, 28 May 2025 13:18:43 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250528131843.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250528131555.htm The aging of the innermost cell layer of blood vessels leads to cardiovascular diseases. Researchers have now shown for the first time that intestinal bacteria and their metabolites contribute directly to vascular aging. As people age, the bacterial composition in their gut changes, resulting in fewer 'rejuvenating' and more harmful substances in the body. Wed, 28 May 2025 13:15:55 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250528131555.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250522125353.htm A review has stressed that agricultural soils now hold around 23 times more microplastics than oceans. Thu, 22 May 2025 12:53:53 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250522125353.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250522124848.htm If you've ever regretted ordering a spicy meal, take note: A new study identifying molecules that suppress the heat of chili peppers hints at the possibility of adapting these compounds into an 'anti-spice' condiment for food that's too fiery to eat. The research helps explain differences in chili pepper pungency, or spiciness, by identifying three compounds in a range of pepper samples that chemical analysis predicted, and study participants on a tasting panel confirmed, are linked to lower heat intensity. Thu, 22 May 2025 12:48:48 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250522124848.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250508113139.htm Eating even small amounts of ultra-processed foods—like soda, chips, or packaged cookies—can steadily increase your risk of serious health problems. A massive study reviewing data from over 8 million adults worldwide revealed that each extra 100 grams of these foods per day raises the likelihood of high blood pressure, heart issues, cancer, digestive troubles, and even early death. Thu, 08 May 2025 11:31:39 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250508113139.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250507125705.htm Scientists have mapped the 3-D structure of the human sweet taste receptor, the molecular machine that allows us to taste sweet things. This could lead to the discovery of new regulators of the receptor that would significantly alter our attraction to and appetite for sugar. Wed, 07 May 2025 12:57:05 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250507125705.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250429102843.htm Those who climb indoors are doing something for their health. But climbing shoes contain chemicals of concern that can enter the lungs of climbers through the abrasion of the soles. In a recent study, researchers have shown that high concentrations of potentially harmful chemicals from climbing shoe soles can be found in the air of bouldering gyms, in some cases higher than on a busy street. Tue, 29 Apr 2025 10:28:43 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250429102843.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250428222323.htm A study analyzing data from nationally representative dietary surveys and mortality data from eight countries (Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, United Kingdom, and United States) shows that premature deaths attributable to consumption of ultraprocessed foods (UPFs) increase significantly according to their share in individuals' total energy intake. The new study reinforces the call for global action to reduce UPF consumption, supported by regulatory and fiscal policies that foster healthier environments. Mon, 28 Apr 2025 22:23:23 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250428222323.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250415143807.htm Growing cells in the laboratory is an art that humans have mastered decades ago. Recreating entire three-dimensional tissues is much more challenging. Researchers are developing a new hydrogel-based material that makes it possible to engineer artificial skin tissues, which can serve as living three-dimensional models of human skin for better understanding and treating skin diseases. Tue, 15 Apr 2025 14:38:07 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250415143807.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250415143508.htm Researchers discover that inflammation and aging contribute to non-viral liver cancer development: Green tea's role in reversing some of the pathway dysregulation that may contribute to the cancer development and other therapies are explored. Tue, 15 Apr 2025 14:35:08 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250415143508.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250415143224.htm Researchers recently reported that American palates are likely to accept pearl millet -- a hardy, gluten-free grain that has been cultivated for centuries in rugged, drought conditions in Africa and India -- as an acceptable substitute in recipes that use wheat flour. Tue, 15 Apr 2025 14:32:24 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250415143224.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250414124820.htm New research suggests increasing the ratio of dietary potassium to sodium intake may be more effective for lowering blood pressure than simply reducing sodium intake. Mon, 14 Apr 2025 12:48:20 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250414124820.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250408121847.htm A new study maps how specific lactic acid bacteria can enhance both the flavor and nutritional quality of plant-based dairy alternatives. The findings may have wide-reaching perspectives for the further development of sustainable foods. Tue, 08 Apr 2025 12:18:47 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250408121847.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250408121806.htm Calcium transport into and out of mitochondria -- the powerhouses of cells -- is central to cellular energy production and cell death. To maintain the balance of calcium within these powerhouses, cells rely on a protein known as the mitochondrial sodium-calcium exchanger, or NCLX. Now, in new research, scientists have discovered a novel regulator of NCLX activity, a protein called TMEM65, which helps move calcium out of mitochondria, protecting against harmful calcium overload. Tue, 08 Apr 2025 12:18:06 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250408121806.htm