MediWeek

Adherence to current dietary guidelines for fruit and vegetable intake does not achieve flavanol intake levels linked to cardiovascular benefit, according to a new study in Food & Function. The findings suggested that specific dietary reference values for flavanols may be needed to realize the benefits seen in the landmark COSMOS trial. Researchers from the University of […]

Alcohol consumption is a major global public health concern and a leading preventable cause of premature death and disability. While the harmful effects of heavy drinking are well established, alcohol consumed in moderation is often perceived as relatively safe. However, growing evidence suggests that even low-to-moderate alcohol intake may contribute to a range of adverse

Globally, poor diet is recognized as an important cause of death, disability, and utilization of healthcare facilities. This is worsened by inability to access heathy foods due to financial strain. “Food is medicine” (FIM) is an intervention involving provision of free, healthy food to patients with diet-sensitive conditions (e.g., diabetes, chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular disease,

Consuming outside food [known as “Food-away-from-home (FAFH)] is a common ‘eating behavior’ seen across nations. Though considered more common in developed nations, this behavior has shown a marked (~50%) surge in developing countries such as South Africa, India, and Mexico. With an increase in online food delivery, access to FAFH has become easier. Such foods

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading global cause of death, with hypertension as a major modifiable risk factor. Increasing evidence suggests that food additives in ultra-processed foods may also influence cardiovascular health. Food preservatives are widely used to extend the shelf life and maintain the quality of processed foods and beverages. Although these additives have long

Chronic stress and late-night snacking may adversely affect gut microbiome health. The impact of snacking on health may be influenced by both the quality and quantity of foods consumed; however, the timing of snacking, particularly when late at night, can affect digestive health and the gut microbiome. The possible mechanisms by which the combination of

Sleep duration is increasingly recognized as a key determinant of systemic health and ageing. Sleep plays a fundamental role in maintaining metabolic, cardiovascular, immune, and neurological health. While both short and long sleep have been linked to adverse clinical outcomes, their effects on biological ageing across multiple organ systems remain incompletely understood. Emerging evidence suggests

Poor balance can make simple tasks difficult and increase the risk of falls, joint disorders, and reduced stability. Maintaining balance requires coordination between the trunk and lower limbs, along with proper alignment of the body’s center of gravity. Disruption of this coordination may contribute to inefficient movement and low back pain. Low-intensity exercises performed in

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a growing global health burden, accounting for more than half of all heart failure cases. Obesity has emerged as a major independent risk factor for HFpEF, contributing to systemic inflammation, neurohormonal activation, myocardial fibrosis (stiffening of the heart muscle, thus limiting its ability to pump blood) and

Mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression, are becoming increasingly common worldwide. Lifestyle and dietary factors, including coffee consumption, are being explored for their role in mental health, though evidence has been inconsistent. Emerging evidence suggests a J-shaped relationship, in which moderate intake may be beneficial, whereas higher intake may be harmful. Coffee contains bioactive