Environmental Nutrition

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Research Roundup

Subscribers Only • Capers are exceptionally rich in naturally occurring antioxidant compounds, researchers from Italy have determined. • Flaxseed oil may help lower blood pressure , say Greek researchers, who studied 59 men for 12 weeks. • Tea does not interfere with iron absorption as previously thought, according to French researchers

Heart-y Macadamias

Subscribers Only Q. Are macadamia nuts heart-healthy? A. Research suggests they are, but the government specifically excludes macadamias from using the claim because of their high saturated fat content.

Can 20 Servings of Fruit a Day Fix What Ails You?

Subscribers Only Q. I’ve been hearing a lot lately about a fruit diet. Is that a healthy way to eat? A. Most dietary recommendations encourage people to eat more fruit—about four servings a day. But that’s a far cry from a diet which is mostly fruit.

Microwave Cooking Kills Bacteria….As Long as You Follow Instructions

Subscribers Only Q. Does microwaving kill the bacteria in food that can cause food poisoning? A. Yes, if the food is cooked properly to avoid uneven heating. But there have been cases of food poisoning from frozen foods—particularly pot pies—not microwaved properly.

Green and Dried Peas: Protein, Fiber and More

Subscribers Only Possibly one of the first takeout foods, hot pea soup was sold by street vendors in ancient Athens. As legumes, peas are high in protein while green peas are a leading source of the phytonutrients that protect eyes against free radical damage. Enjoy EN 's own recipe for split pea soup.

Scientific Panel Declares Aspartame Safe; Some Doubts Linger

Subscribers Only After a comprehensive review of the research on aspartame, a panel of experts has concluded that the artificial sweetener is safe, all but dismissing earlier worries that it might cause cancer or other health problems.

New Products That Promise to Quell the Quease, Cut Cholesterol, Boost Bone Strength and Even Sweeten Your Day

Subscribers Only Last month, EN highlighted research presented at the annual Food and Nutrition Conference and Expo in Philadelphia. This month, we’re filling you in on some new products featured there.

Hot Cereals: Lots of Healthful Choices to Start Your Day

Subscribers Only When it’s cold outside, there’s no better way to start the day than with a bowl of hot cereal. Today, alongside old favorites there are dozens of new varieties, including sugar-free and low-sugar versions and multigrain varieties. An EN brand-name comparison.

Combating Colds, Fending Off the Flu: What Works?

Subscribers Only Cough and sniffle season is well underway. Whether you’re coping with a common cold or a debilitating case of the flu, you’re likely searching for ways to feel better fast and prevent a recurrence. Here, EN updates you on popular strategies to prevent and manage symptoms.

Whole Grains Every Day May Help Protect Heart

Subscribers Only Making a habit of eating a whole-grain cereal for breakfast could significantly reduce your risk of heart failure. That’s what researchers found when they analyzed the diets of more than 21,000 male physicians.

Beyond 100-Calorie Packs: Strategies to Conquer Portion Distortion

Subscribers Only Portion control is crucial for reining in calories. But it's not easy. On one hand, manufacturers do it for you with 100-calorie snack packs. On the other hand, fast-food companies tempt you with 1,400-calorie burgers. EN examines this disconnect and offers tips to keep you in control.

Diet Second Only to Smoking as Cause of Cancer; 9 Things You Can Do

Subscribers Only A recent survey found that nearly half of those questioned felt that preventing cancer was either impossible or highly unlikely. But a newly released international report on the dietary causes of cancer reveals you have the power to significantly modify your cancer risk.