https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/health_medicine/vegetarian/ Is a vegetarian or vegan diet healthy? Read the research on soy, nuts, fruits, vegetables and other vegetarian foods and decide for yourself. en-us Sun, 09 Aug 2026 08:48:21 EDT Sun, 09 Aug 2026 08:48:21 EDT 60 https://www.sciencedaily.com/images/scidaily-logo-rss.png https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/health_medicine/vegetarian/ For more science news, visit ScienceDaily. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/08/260808234948.htm Full-fat dairy may be healthier than conventional advice has suggested. In a 12-week study, adults who ate three servings a day showed no meaningful increases in weight, body fat, cholesterol, or insulin resistance. They also experienced improved blood pressure and consumed more calcium, protein, and vitamin D. The findings suggest dairy’s complex structure may matter more than its saturated fat content alone. Sun, 09 Aug 2026 08:12:46 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/08/260808234948.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/08/260802223426.htm Chemotherapy-surviving ovarian cancer cells may release fructose to help neighboring tumor cells loosen, escape, and spread. The discovery suggests that sugary diets and cholesterol-lowering drugs could influence cancer progression, though the effects have not yet been confirmed in patients. Tue, 04 Aug 2026 01:15:18 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/08/260802223426.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/08/260801042831.htm A surprisingly small dose of exercise may deliver major health benefits for adults carrying excess fat around the waist. In a four-month trial involving 315 adults with central obesity, researchers found that completing 75 minutes of brisk interval walking in a single weekly session reduced body fat, trimmed waistlines, and improved cardiovascular fitness about as effectively as splitting the same exercise across three days. Sun, 02 Aug 2026 03:33:41 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/08/260801042831.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260731034155.htm A daily avocado may help lower heart disease risk in adults with obesity by reducing the number of LDL particles circulating in the blood. After six months, participants who ate an avocado each day experienced a decline associated with an estimated 4% reduction in cardiovascular risk. Sat, 01 Aug 2026 08:35:57 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260731034155.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260729051534.htm New research challenges the decades-old idea that children experience an “adiposity rebound” when their BMI begins rising around age 6. Although BMI returns to earlier levels, a more reliable measure showed that body fat does not rebound at all. The increase appears to come from growing muscle and lean tissue as children prepare for later growth. Researchers say this normal process has been mistakenly treated as an obesity warning sign for 42 years. Fri, 31 Jul 2026 07:28:32 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260729051534.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260727012128.htm A grocery-store audit found that many foods marketed for toddlers may be far less healthy than parents expect. Of nearly 2,800 products examined in Texas, 81% were ultra-processed, and almost half failed at least one World Health Organization nutrient standard, often because they contained too much sugar, sodium, fat, or too many calories. Tue, 28 Jul 2026 23:13:38 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260727012128.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260726015259.htm Scientists discovered that damaged fat cells can become inflamed, lose their ability to store lipids, and eventually vanish, disrupting the body’s metabolism. The findings show that diabetes can result not only from excess fat, but also from losing the healthy fat tissue the body needs. Sun, 26 Jul 2026 07:43:14 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260726015259.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260726015237.htm Popular AI-powered food apps may make calorie counting easier, but they may also leave out a surprisingly large part of the meal. Four apps underestimated calories and fat by about one-third when tested against carefully prepared meals. High-fat ketogenic dishes appeared to cause the most trouble, while carbohydrates were measured more consistently. Sun, 26 Jul 2026 09:06:15 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260726015237.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260724061448.htm A prebiotic fiber supplement reduced knee osteoarthritis pain while also improving grip strength and pain sensitivity in a six-week trial. The results hint at a fascinating gut-muscle-pain connection and suggest that a simple daily supplement may be easier to maintain than digital physiotherapy. Sat, 25 Jul 2026 06:01:05 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260724061448.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260724061432.htm A sulfur-based compound called LASSS appears to protect and supercharge a key protein involved in repairing damaged muscle. The discovery could eventually lead to new ways to slow muscle loss and preserve strength as people age. Fri, 24 Jul 2026 09:37:50 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260724061432.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260722032121.htm A 25-year study found that frequent consumption of soda, sports drinks, and fruit juice beginning in childhood was linked to a higher risk of high blood pressure in adulthood. Swapping one daily drink for whole fruit, milk, or water could significantly reduce that risk. Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:34:58 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260722032121.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260721000820.htm For most adults, a daily caffeine habit may be safer for the heart than many people assume. A new American Heart Association review found that up to 400 milligrams of caffeine a day, roughly three to five cups of regular black coffee, is generally safe and may even be linked to lower risks of heart disease, stroke, heart failure, and Type 2 diabetes. But the source matters: highly concentrated energy drinks and shots can sharply raise blood pressure and trigger irregular heart rhythms. Tue, 21 Jul 2026 21:30:30 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260721000820.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260716023605.htm The Mediterranean diet may influence aging through tiny proteins produced inside the cell’s mitochondria. Older adults who followed the diet most closely had higher levels of humanin and SHMOOSE, which have been linked to heart and brain protection. Olive oil, fish, legumes, and fewer refined carbohydrates appeared especially important. The findings could eventually help scientists develop more personalized nutrition plans for healthy aging. Fri, 17 Jul 2026 22:24:14 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260716023605.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260716023557.htm A global shift toward healthier diets could sharply reduce livestock farming, free up agricultural land, and cut emissions from land-use change by 85% by 2050. At the same time, fruit, vegetable, nut, and legume production could soar, creating a sweeping transformation of what the world grows and eats. Thu, 23 Jul 2026 09:45:27 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260716023557.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260713084907.htm Researchers found that semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, slowed biological aging markers in adults with HIV, marking the first clinical evidence that the drug may influence human aging. Although the findings are encouraging, scientists say larger studies are needed before concluding that the medication can help people age more slowly. Tue, 14 Jul 2026 05:47:41 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260713084907.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260713084904.htm A new study found that chewing sugary gum after eating nitrate-rich vegetables or drinking beetroot juice helped the body produce more beneficial nitrite, leading to a temporary drop in blood pressure. Researchers hope the discovery will lead to healthier ways to enhance the cardiovascular and performance benefits of dietary nitrate without relying on sugar. Tue, 14 Jul 2026 20:24:05 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260713084904.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260712011758.htm An unexpected study found that young non-smokers with healthier diets had higher rates of lung cancer, raising questions about whether pesticide exposure from conventionally grown produce could play a role. Researchers stress that the findings are preliminary and require further studies before any conclusions can be drawn. Mon, 13 Jul 2026 07:34:52 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260712011758.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260708022206.htm Scientists found that a modified Mediterranean-style diet with low protein and just enough methionine helped mice live healthier lives while reducing body fat and frailty. Human data also linked lower animal protein intake to lower rates of obesity and Type 2 diabetes, suggesting the approach could benefit people as well. Thu, 09 Jul 2026 22:54:41 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260708022206.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260707054114.htm A new study found that dietary fiber can determine whether beneficial intestinal worms help reduce inflammation or become essentially inactive. With plenty of fiber, the worms remained healthy and supported an anti-inflammatory response, while a low-fiber diet pushed them into a hibernation-like state that eliminated those benefits. Researchers also found that fiber-rich diets promoted healthier gut bacteria, whereas Western-style diets reduced microbial diversity and encouraged less desirable microbes. Fri, 10 Jul 2026 19:59:04 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260707054114.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260626125714.htm A new study suggests that apoB, a blood test that measures harmful cholesterol particles, is better than standard LDL cholesterol testing for deciding who needs more intensive treatment. Researchers found it could prevent more heart attacks and strokes while remaining cost-effective for the U.S. healthcare system. Mon, 06 Jul 2026 05:03:38 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260626125714.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260624115324.htm A protein called “Mitch” may hold the key to a new generation of obesity treatments. Researchers found that disabling it in human cells boosts fat burning, increases energy use, and makes it harder for new fat cells to develop. The findings help explain why mice lacking Mitch were leaner, more athletic, and resistant to obesity. Thu, 02 Jul 2026 20:22:49 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260624115324.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260624115133.htm Aging may trigger the appearance of specialized stem cells that supercharge the body's ability to create new belly fat. The discovery reveals a potential biological driver of middle-age weight gain and a promising target for future anti-obesity treatments. Sat, 27 Jun 2026 14:54:36 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260624115133.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260623083116.htm Vitamin B12 is needed in microscopic amounts, but a shortage can have major effects on health and energy. The vitamin was first linked to a lifesaving liver treatment for pernicious anemia nearly 100 years ago. Today, researchers are finding that B12 may also help keep cellular powerhouses called mitochondria functioning properly. This could explain why some people experience fatigue and brain fog even before traditional signs of deficiency show up. Thu, 25 Jun 2026 10:57:39 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260623083116.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260622091429.htm A new review suggests that doing more exercise and eating more protein than current minimum recommendations may help people stay stronger, sharper, and more independent as they age. The goal isn't building a beach body—it's extending healthspan and maintaining the ability to fully enjoy life for decades longer. Mon, 22 Jun 2026 21:44:42 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260622091429.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260621060318.htm Not all fats affect your body the same way. Researchers found that palmitic acid, a saturated fat common in many foods, may contribute to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes by triggering inflammation, toxic fat buildup, and cellular stress. In contrast, oleic acid—the heart-healthy fat abundant in olive oil—appears to help protect insulin function and may even counter some of the harmful effects of palmitic acid. Sun, 21 Jun 2026 20:25:04 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260621060318.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260621060313.htm Scientists discovered that kombucha’s flavor, chemistry, and antioxidant activity vary dramatically depending on the tea used to make it. Green and oolong tea kombuchas emerged as the most biologically active, while fermentation transformed each tea into a distinctly different beverage. Tue, 23 Jun 2026 11:06:00 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260621060313.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260619020512.htm Eating five servings of fruits and vegetables may not be enough if you're missing foods rich in flavanols, a group of compounds linked to better heart health. Researchers found that choices like blackberries, plums, apples, broad beans, cherries, and green tea can dramatically increase flavanol intake. Fri, 19 Jun 2026 09:56:05 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260619020512.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260618041504.htm The battle between butter and margarine comes down to chemistry. Butter’s naturally occurring fats create rich flavors, golden browning, and flaky baked goods, while margarine’s modified plant oils offer consistency and a longer shelf life. Although both contain mostly fat, their different structures influence how they behave in recipes. Understanding those differences can help you choose the right one for cooking, baking, or health goals. Fri, 26 Jun 2026 14:43:10 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260618041504.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260617032204.htm A major study of more than 112,000 people found that eating foods containing common preservatives may be linked to a higher risk of high blood pressure and heart-related diseases. Researchers tracked participants for up to eight years and discovered that people consuming the highest amounts of certain preservatives had significantly greater risks of hypertension, heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems. Thu, 18 Jun 2026 01:21:12 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260617032204.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260614012011.htm Scientists are beginning to explore a hidden world of thousands of food chemicals that go far beyond the nutrients listed on nutrition labels. This “nutritional dark matter” may hold the key to understanding disease risk, healthy aging, and why different diets affect people in dramatically different ways. Wed, 17 Jun 2026 00:31:52 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260614012011.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260614011843.htm A surprising new study suggests that completely eliminating sugar may backfire. Mice on a sucrose-free low-fat diet showed worse blood sugar control, increased inflammation, disrupted gut bacteria, and signs of fatty liver compared with mice that consumed some sucrose. Researchers say the results highlight the importance of a balanced diet and a healthy gut microbiome rather than focusing solely on cutting out sugar. Sun, 14 Jun 2026 02:37:07 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260614011843.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260606075852.htm A major long-term study of more than 54,000 adults found that where nitrate comes from may matter far more than how much you consume. People who got more nitrate from vegetables—roughly the amount in a cup of baby spinach a day—had a lower risk of developing dementia, while higher nitrate and nitrite intake from red meat, processed meat, and even drinking water was linked to a greater risk. Mon, 08 Jun 2026 01:07:34 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260606075852.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260605023408.htm Supplements are often marketed as shortcuts to better health, but for many older adults, the real issue is whether they have a specific deficiency. Vitamins like B12 and D can play an important role when levels are low, while protein may be one of the most overlooked nutrients for maintaining strength and independence. More isn’t always better, though—some supplements can cause harm or interact with medications. Sat, 06 Jun 2026 08:40:28 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260605023408.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260604044304.htm A large study of older adults in Brazil found that adding extra salt at the table is still a common habit, especially among men. While too much salt is linked to serious health problems and faster cognitive decline, researchers discovered that women’s salt-shaking habits were tied more closely to lifestyle and diet. Thu, 04 Jun 2026 10:05:04 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260604044304.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260603015218.htm French fries may be the real potato problem. A large study tracking more than 205,000 people for nearly 40 years found that eating three servings of fries per week was linked to a 20% higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, while baked, boiled, or mashed potatoes showed no significant increase in risk. The research also found that swapping potatoes for whole grains lowered diabetes risk, while replacing them with white rice had the opposite effect. Wed, 03 Jun 2026 02:14:01 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260603015218.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260601025349.htm A surprising new study suggests that when it comes to pancreatic cancer, the kind of fat you eat may matter more than how much. Researchers found that oleic acid—the main fat in olive oil and several other common foods—sped up tumor growth in mice predisposed to pancreatic cancer, while omega-3-rich fats from fish oil dramatically slowed disease development. Tue, 02 Jun 2026 01:55:31 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260601025349.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260530004622.htm Losing weight may involve rewiring the gut and the brain at the same time. In a study of obese adults, an intermittent fasting-style diet led to significant weight loss, healthier metabolic markers, and notable shifts in gut bacteria. Brain scans also revealed changes in regions tied to appetite, cravings, and self-control. The results suggest the gut microbiome and brain may work together to influence weight-loss success. Sun, 31 May 2026 05:01:44 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260530004622.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260529043644.htm A specially formulated tomato-soy juice packed with natural plant compounds may help calm inflammation linked to obesity, according to a new clinical study. Healthy adults with obesity who drank the juice daily for four weeks saw significant reductions in several key inflammatory proteins in their blood, while a control tomato juice did not produce the same effect. Sat, 30 May 2026 01:53:49 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260529043644.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260528082501.htm Feeling constantly drained might not just be about poor sleep or working too hard. Researchers in Japan found that low levels of key vitamins — especially vitamin B12 and folate — may quietly contribute to fatigue and lack of motivation, even in otherwise healthy people. Thu, 28 May 2026 23:23:48 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260528082501.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260527023200.htm Researchers found that drinking guava juice may significantly improve anemia by helping the body absorb iron more efficiently. In a review of 17 studies, women and teenage girls who consumed guava juice — especially with iron supplements — experienced noticeable increases in hemoglobin levels. Since guava contains far more vitamin C than oranges, scientists believe it could become a simple, affordable nutrition tool in regions where anemia is widespread. Wed, 27 May 2026 03:09:36 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260527023200.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260526233632.htm Scientists at UC San Diego have unveiled a potentially game-changing treatment for MASH, a severe fatty liver disease affecting millions worldwide. The experimental drug, ION224, blocks a liver enzyme that drives fat buildup and inflammation, two key forces behind liver damage. In clinical trials, patients showed striking improvements in liver health, even without losing weight. Wed, 27 May 2026 08:49:37 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260526233632.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260526022009.htm Vitamin B12 has long been seen as a health hero, helping the body make red blood cells, repair DNA, and keep nerves functioning properly. But scientists are discovering that the story may be more complicated than simply “more is better.” While too little B12 can damage DNA and raise cancer risk, some studies suggest that extremely high levels — especially from long-term high-dose supplements — may also be linked to certain cancers or poorer outcomes in cancer patients. Wed, 27 May 2026 00:52:06 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260526022009.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260524021154.htm Drinking nitrate-rich beetroot juice may do more than support heart health — it could actually reshape the bacteria living in the mouth in ways that help lower blood pressure in older adults. In the largest study of its kind, researchers found that older people who drank concentrated beetroot juice twice daily for two weeks experienced noticeable blood pressure reductions, while younger adults did not. Mon, 25 May 2026 01:01:09 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260524021154.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260524020950.htm Researchers found that adding bananas to berry smoothies can dramatically reduce the body’s ability to absorb healthy flavanols. The surprising discovery shows that even simple food combinations can change how much nutrition your body actually gets. Sun, 24 May 2026 08:48:32 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260524020950.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260523103947.htm Scientists at UT Southwestern have uncovered a surprising new “master switch” that helps control how much cholesterol the liver sends into the bloodstream. The newly identified protein, HELZ2, works by shutting down the genetic instructions needed to produce apoB — a key building block of the cholesterol-carrying particles linked to clogged arteries and heart disease. Sun, 24 May 2026 22:52:23 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260523103947.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260523103906.htm Eating more beans, lentils, chickpeas, tofu, and other soy foods could be a surprisingly powerful way to fight high blood pressure. A major analysis of studies from around the world found that people with the highest intake of legumes were 16% less likely to develop hypertension, while those eating the most soy foods had a 19% lower risk. Tue, 26 May 2026 00:09:23 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260523103906.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260520233223.htm MIT scientists have identified cysteine — an amino acid found in foods like meat, dairy, beans, and nuts — as a potent trigger for intestinal repair. In mice, a cysteine-rich diet activated immune cells that released healing signals, helping stem cells rebuild damaged intestinal tissue after radiation exposure. Researchers say the discovery could eventually lead to new dietary therapies for cancer patients suffering from treatment-related gut damage. Thu, 21 May 2026 00:40:33 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260520233223.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260519003103.htm A large European study revealed that a lower-calorie Mediterranean diet paired with exercise and coaching dramatically reduced the risk of type 2 diabetes. Participants who made these lifestyle changes were 31% less likely to develop the disease over six years. They also lost more weight and trimmed their waistlines compared to those following a standard Mediterranean diet alone. Tue, 19 May 2026 03:02:22 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260519003103.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260517030515.htm Studies suggest watermelon could be a hidden powerhouse for better health. Researchers found that people who eat watermelon tend to have higher-quality diets packed with more vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants — while consuming less added sugar and saturated fat. Another study showed watermelon juice may help protect blood vessel function and support heart health. Sun, 17 May 2026 08:56:21 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260517030515.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260515233343.htm Coffee may give your blood pressure a temporary jolt, but that doesn’t mean it’s secretly wrecking your heart. Researchers say caffeine can briefly raise blood pressure by stimulating your heart and tightening blood vessels, especially in people who don’t drink coffee regularly. But large studies involving hundreds of thousands of people found no strong evidence that moderate coffee drinking increases the risk of developing hypertension. In fact, coffee also contains natural compounds that may help blood vessels function better. Fri, 15 May 2026 23:33:43 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260515233343.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260515002151.htm Researchers analyzing over 20,000 patients found that very high levels of the inherited cholesterol particle Lp(a) dramatically raise the risk of stroke, cardiovascular death, and major heart complications. Because most people with elevated Lp(a) have no symptoms, experts say a simple blood test could uncover a dangerous hidden risk factor. Fri, 15 May 2026 06:39:01 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260515002151.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260511213144.htm A four-week diet change was enough to make some older adults appear biologically younger in a new University of Sydney study. Participants who reduced fat intake or shifted toward more plant-based protein showed improvements in key health biomarkers tied to aging. The strongest results came from a lower-fat, higher-carb diet, while people eating closer to their usual diets saw almost no change. Tue, 12 May 2026 08:44:25 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260511213144.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260511213141.htm Scientists at McGill University have uncovered a hidden molecular “switch” that turns on a powerful calorie-burning system in brown fat — the body’s heat-generating fat linked to metabolism and weight control. The breakthrough centers on glycerol, a molecule released when fat is broken down in the cold, which activates an enzyme called TNAP and triggers an alternative heat-producing pathway that scientists had struggled to explain for years. Tue, 12 May 2026 07:58:13 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260511213141.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260508171123.htm Scientists have uncovered a surprising secret hidden inside fat cells that could reshape how we think about obesity and metabolic disease. A protein called HSL, long believed to simply release stored fat when the body needs energy, turns out to have a second job deep inside the nucleus of fat cells—helping keep those cells healthy and balanced. Even more surprising, people and mice missing this protein don’t become obese as expected; instead, they lose fat tissue in a dangerous condition called lipodystrophy. Fri, 08 May 2026 17:21:20 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260508171123.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260506225235.htm Aging doesn’t just add fat—it redistributes it in risky ways, pushing more into the abdomen where it can harm health. Scientists found that testosterone plays a key role in this shift. In older women recovering from hip fractures, a testosterone gel combined with exercise helped prevent the usual rise in dangerous visceral fat. The result could point to a powerful new strategy for improving recovery and long-term health. Thu, 07 May 2026 05:25:59 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260506225235.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260504023828.htm Creatine might be famous in the gym, but its real story is far more interesting. Naturally produced in the body, it helps power cells by rapidly regenerating ATP—the fuel that keeps muscles, the brain, and even the heart running during intense activity. Supplementing with creatine can boost short bursts of physical performance and may even support memory, mood, and cognitive speed, especially in people with lower baseline levels. Mon, 04 May 2026 04:13:48 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260504023828.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260501013525.htm A new breakthrough could change how high cholesterol is treated, offering a powerful alternative to traditional drugs. Researchers have developed tiny DNA-based molecules that shut down PCSK9—a key protein that keeps “bad” LDL cholesterol circulating in the blood. By blocking this protein, cells can absorb more cholesterol instead of letting it build up in arteries, dramatically lowering levels linked to heart disease. Fri, 01 May 2026 04:50:34 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260501013525.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260430213503.htm A key protein involved in fat metabolism has been found to do more than scientists once thought. Instead of just releasing fat, it helps maintain healthy fat tissue and balance in the body. When it’s missing or disrupted, the results can be surprisingly harmful. This finding reshapes how researchers think about obesity and metabolic disease. Thu, 30 Apr 2026 21:40:07 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260430213503.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260428045542.htm Scientists at MIT discovered that chaotic laser light can spontaneously form a highly focused beam instead of scattering—if the conditions are just right. This “pencil beam” enabled them to image the blood-brain barrier in 3D at speeds 25 times faster than existing techniques. The method also lets researchers watch how drugs move into brain cells in real time. It could dramatically accelerate the development of treatments for neurological diseases. Tue, 28 Apr 2026 04:55:42 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260428045542.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260422003024.htm Scientists have discovered that combining two existing drugs can dramatically reduce liver fat linked to a common and often silent disease. The treatment not only improved liver health in animal models but also showed potential to lower heart-related risks. Interestingly, using lower doses of both drugs together worked just as well as higher doses alone. While promising, the findings still need to be tested in humans. Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:51:12 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260422003024.htm