Over-consumption of and craving for salt may be explained by its mood-enhancing qualities.
A study by Professor Peter Rogers of Bristol University argues that, while
people readily admit to being "chocoholics", chocolate is not truly addictive and there is an alternative explanation
for this ubiquitous craving.
Very high doses of
antioxidant polyphenols (commonly found in red wine, fruits, vegetables, and green tea) shut down and prevented
cancerous tumors by inhibiting new blood vessel formation. Conversely, at relatively low doses they play a beneficial
role in cardiac and circulatory diseases by facilitating blood vessel growth.
Mediterranean diet appears to be associated with a lower risk of Alzheimer's.
Significant differences in cancer rates between northern and southern
Europeans may be explained by the anti-cancer effects of olive oil in the diet.
Soaking potatoes in water before frying can reduce levels of acrylamide, a naturally occurring chemical
formed when starch-rich foods are cooked at high temperatures.
Research by Kaiser Permanente presented at the recent European Cancer
Conference (ECCO 14) has found that increased risk of breast cancer is related to alcohol itself and the
quantity drunk rather than the type.
The results of a large randomized trial recently published on bmj.com
indicate that prolonged or exclusive breastfeeding fails to protect against development of asthma and allergies
in later life.
A diet rich in fish and "fruity vegetables" such as tomatoes, aubergines, cucumber, green beans and courgettes can
reduce childhood asthma and allergies.
A recent study concludes that
lycopene, an antioxidant predominately found in tomatoes, is not effective in preventing prostate cancer.
A new study by a number of co-authors published in the October issue of Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental
Research examines how helpful parents may be in assessing their children's alcohol
and/or drug use and abuse. Findings indicate that they do not provide valuable
information because they are often unaware of it.