The ketogenic diet is one of the oldest forms of medical treatment for epilepsy in infants and children. But the mechanisms underlying its anti-seizure effects have remained unclear until recently. In a recent study, researchers from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) found that certain bacteria in the gut play an important role in mediating the anti-seizure effects … Continue reading The ketogenic diet helps reduce epileptic seizures through its effects on gut microbiota
Researchers find strong evidence linking artificial sweeteners to asthma
Even moderate consumption of fructose and high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) from soda, fruit drinks and apple juice corresponds to a higher risk of asthma in adults. This is the finding of a recent study by independent researcher Luanne DeChristopher and Katherine Tucker from the University of Massachusetts Lowell (UMass Lowell), published in the British Journal of Nutrition. Their study found that … Continue reading Researchers find strong evidence linking artificial sweeteners to asthma
Analysis of broccoli florets reveals what phytochemicals are present in young and mature broccoli
Broccoli (Brassica oleracea) is a cruciferous vegetable closely related to Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower and kale. A rich source of essential vitamins and minerals, broccoli is also known for its abundance of antioxidants, which help fight free radicals and prevent chronic disease. But the most notable compounds present in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables are the sulfur-containing … Continue reading Analysis of broccoli florets reveals what phytochemicals are present in young and mature broccoli
Capsaicin from chili peppers reduces liver and abdominal fat and protects against oxidative damage
Capsaicin is an active compound found in different types of hot peppers. It is responsible for their spiciness, as well as for the health benefits associated with them. One of the most notable things capsaicin is known for is its ability to relieve pain. Several studies have shown that capsaicin can decrease the intensity of pain … Continue reading Capsaicin from chili peppers reduces liver and abdominal fat and protects against oxidative damage
Lower Type 2 diabetes risk by following a plant-based diet and eating less meat
A review published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine found that plant-based diets can help lower a person’s risk of Type 2 diabetes by as much as 23 percent. This result was associated not only with vegetarian and vegan diets, but also with more lenient eating patterns that allow the consumption of small amounts of animal-based foods. According to the Centers for Disease Control … Continue reading Lower Type 2 diabetes risk by following a plant-based diet and eating less meat
A dose of toxic synthetic chemicals: Researchers detect “forever chemicals” in California’s drinking water
Drinking water sources serving 7.5 million Californians are contaminated with toxic synthetic chemicals, according to a study from the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a nonprofit organization specializing in environmental research. These chemicals, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS, are commonly called “forever chemicals,” as they are extremely resistant to degradation once they get released to the environment. Low doses … Continue reading A dose of toxic synthetic chemicals: Researchers detect “forever chemicals” in California’s drinking water
“Vegetarian” fast food options are still full of fat, calories and sodium, caution health experts
A fast-food restaurant’s vegetarian offerings may not be as healthy as you might think. This is according to nutritionist Christina Crowder who noted that while some fast-food items may indeed feature “healthy” ingredients such as fresh vegetables, these are often smothered with salty sauces and served with sugary drinks. In addition, these are often accompanied by other salt and … Continue reading “Vegetarian” fast food options are still full of fat, calories and sodium, caution health experts
Summer savory essential oil can be used to extend the shelf life of food products
Summer savory (Satureja hortensis) is a highly aromatic herb that, like many in the mint (Lamiaceae) family, is used as a culinary ingredient. A cousin of winter savory, summer savory is described as having a hot, peppery flavor with notes of marjoram, mint and thyme. This spicy herb is an excellent seasoning. It can be used … Continue reading Summer savory essential oil can be used to extend the shelf life of food products
It only takes one: Drinking at least one sugary drink a day increases your cancer risk
When it comes to beverages that increase your risk of cancer, it turns out that a glass of orange juice may be just as bad as a glass of soda. This is according to a new study, which found that sugary drinks – including 100 percent fruit juice – were “significantly associated with the risk of … Continue reading It only takes one: Drinking at least one sugary drink a day increases your cancer risk
Want to lose belly fat? Eat more of these 27 superfoods
It’s not easy to lose weight, and it can be harder if you eat a lot of salty foods that cause water retention. To promote weight loss, eat more of the 27 superfoods listed below. Belly fat or visceral fat can be found inside your abdominal cavity, wrapped around your internal organs. While it can be hard to determine exactly … Continue reading Want to lose belly fat? Eat more of these 27 superfoods
Dr. Eddy Bettermann MD 