Archive For The “Health” Category
Total U.S. fruit intake declined 7 percent to 0.93 cup equivalent per person per day in 2017–18 from 1 cup equivalent in 2003–04.
A 50-percent drop in fruit juice intake, from 0.46 cup equivalent per person per day in 2003–04 to 0.23 cup equivalent in 2017-18, drove the overall decrease in fruit consumption.
For a nutritionally adequate diet, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020–2025 advises individuals to consume about one cup equivalent of fruit for every 1,000 calories, with some variations for children and adolescents based on sex and physical activity.
Fruit is a rich source of nutrients, including dietary fiber, potassium, calcium, and vitamin D. Given the importance of this food group to diet quality, the USDA, Economic Research Service (ERS) recently examined U.S. fruit consumption patterns and trends.
These data come from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), which nutritionists use to study diet quality.
Plátanos de Canarias just joined forces with Ausolan, a Spanish business group, to create an initiative to teach kids about the importance of physical activity and balanced, nutritious meals by collaborating with school kitchens.
The collaboration’s focus is to battle childhood obesity, which the organization says is a front-and-center issue in Spain.
According to a press release from the company, 36.1% of children between the ages of 2 and 17 are overweight, and 15.9% suffer from obesity.
The organization is also launching a special challenge for kids to win 50-spot kits with everything you need to stay active: a soccer ball, water bottle, gym towel, and pool shoes.
- Plantains are rich sources of complex carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.
- Plantains promote bowel regularity due to their fiber content.
- They are good for heart health.
- Plantains are versatile and can be used in various dishes.
To participate, kids should post a photo on their favorite social media platform practicing a sport with their favorite fruit, tag the organization’s Instagram: @platano_decanarias and use the hashtag #LaFrutaDelDeporte.
A recent study published in the journal Nutrients found that daily mango consumption may lower insulin levels and enhance insulin sensitivity in overweight or obese adults experiencing chronic low-grade inflammation.
Conducted at the Illinois Institute of Technology with 48 adults aged 20 to 60, the study compared the effects of fresh mangos to a calorie-matched control food, on inflammation and insulin sensitivity. Participants consuming mangos exhibited significant reductions in insulin resistance, as measured by the Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR). Additionally, improvements in beta-cell function (insulin production and release) were noted using the disposition index (DI).
After a four-week intervention, the mango group showed significantly lower insulin concentrations during an oral glucose tolerance test compared to baseline, while no changes were observed in the control group.
“Our study indicates that incorporating fresh mangos into the diet may provide an accessible way for those who are overweight or obese to enhance insulin function and decrease the risk of type 2 diabetes,” Professor of Food Science and Nutrition Indika Edirisinghe, PhD, noted.
Importantly, while maintaining comparable caloric intake, participants in the mango group did not experience changes in body composition, whereas the control group showed a slight increase in weight.
Other markers of inflammation and glucose levels did not differ significantly between the two groups, suggesting that fresh mangos could be a healthier alternative to similar sweet treats.
Edirisinghe emphasized that the observed improvement in insulin sensitivity without corresponding weight gain challenges the perception that the natural sugar in mangos negatively impacts obesity and diabetes. While the specific mechanisms remain unclear, improved antioxidant status from mango consumption may play a role in regulating blood glucose levels.
These findings highlight the importance of incorporating fresh fruits, particularly mangos, into dietary habits that support heart health, blood sugar control, and overall wellness.
The mangos consumed were a combination of Kent and Keitt varieties, and aside from the intervention or control food, participants maintained their usual diet and lifestyle. The study utilized a randomized, placebo-controlled, single-blinded design over four weeks in real-life conditions, enabling thorough evaluations of fasting and postprandial glycemic responses.
*This study was supported through an unrestricted grant from the National
Avocados from Mexico says it promotes the heart-healthy benefits and good fats of avocados, and to mark National Nutrition Month. This includes supporting the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good Initiative, Eat Smart Program, which encourages people to make informed choices about nutrition.
Avocaods From Mexico says avocados are good sources of fiber, with 3 grams per one-third of a medium avocado, as well as healthy fats.
The Healthy for Good Initiative, Eat Smart Program promotes an overall balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and sources of healthy fats. Avocados From Mexico is a national supporter of this initiative, and its “Good Fats Meet Great Taste” campaign reinforces the importance of making informed food choices, according to a news release.
“Avocados From Mexico taste good and are good for you, making them a one-stop-shop for anyone who wants to eat healthy without compromising on taste,” Alvaro Luque, CEO of Avocados From Mexico, said in the release. “This program spotlights all the benefits that make avocados a nutritional powerhouse, including good fats and key nutrients that support heart health. Avocados are a versatile, delicious add to nearly any recipe, proving that eating healthy can — and should — be fun.”
ELGIN, MN – Honeybear Brands, a leading grower, marketer and developer of premium conventional and organic apples, pears and cherries, is urging retailers to remind shoppers to eat more fiber rich apples this March, in an effort to help them reduce their risk of certain cancers.
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in the U.S. and the risk is growing in younger adults. In fact, the number of people under 55 who’ve been newly diagnosed with colorectal cancer has nearly doubled since 1995. As a result, the American Cancer Society has issued new recommendations for people to start regular screening at age 45 rather than 50.
What’s increasing the risk? Experts point to the American diet — processed food, low-fiber, high-fat meals. But a high-fiber diet is a significant preventative measure against colon cancer. Apples are a powerhouse of fiber, thanks to their skin, and are packed with phytochemicals — such as flavonoids and polyphenols — that may help fight certain cancers.
“As younger adults see their risk for this disease increase, we want to encourage them to add more fiber to their daily diets. Apples are an easy way to do this. A portable snack, or an easy ingredient in a meal, apples are within reach and very affordable,” said Kristi Harris, Marketing Director, Honeybear Brands, in a recent press release.
Honeybear Brands is supporting this Colorectal Cancer education effort at retail, offering point of sale promotional materials featuring the recognized blue ribbon this March.
“We want to trigger that connection for shoppers looking to make informed choices at store level and the blue ribbon symbolizes the importance of gut health,” said Harris.
The company is also working with My Food Gal, a food blogger on a social media campaign to inspire consumers to follow her easy, high fiber recipe that features the delicious combination of apples, oats and peanut butter.
There is much research demonstrating that fruits are a rich source of these nutrients. According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA), 2020-2025, the underconsumption of some of the nutrients provided by fruits is considered a public health concern.
Dietary guidelines by the USDA and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services indicate the amount of fruit recommended for a nutritionally adequate diet has remained the same since 2005.
According to these entities, about 80% of the U.S. population consumes less fruit than the recommended amount.
A recent examination by the USDA Economic Research Service (ERS) indicated that, on average, U.S. consumers have been eating and drinking less fruit since the turn of the 21st century.
Estimates from the ERS Loss Adjusted Food Availability Data show per capita U.S. total fruit availability declined from 0.95 cup equivalents per person per day in 2003 to 0.82 cup equivalents per person per day in 2021, a 14% drop, the report shows.
Additionally, data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), collected at the individual level, similarly show total fruit intake in the United States declined 7% from 1 cup equivalent per person per day in 2003–04 to 0.93 cup equivalents per person per day in 2017–18.
Fruit consumption is measured in fresh, canned, frozen, and dried products, as well as 100% juice.
The ERS Loss-Adjusted Food Availability data product and NHANES both show U.S. consumers drank less fruit juice over time, on average.
Children are eating more fruit at school; Senior adults are eating less fruit overall
The fruit density of children’s diets increased from an average of 0.55 cup equivalents per 1,000 calories in 2003–04 to 0.74 cup equivalents per 1,000 calories in 2017–18.
In-school meals have contributed to increased consumption by children. The fruit density of children’s diets when eating at school increased from 1 cup equivalent per 1,000 calories in 2003–04 to 1.36 cup equivalents per 1,000 calories in 2017–18.
However, seniors and working-age adults do not fare as well as children in meeting dietary fruit guidelines. In 2017–18, seniors consumed 0.59 cups of fruit per 1,000 calories, which is 0.16 cup equivalents less fruit per 1,000 calories than in 2003–04.
Regardless, children and adults, including seniors, consistently have fallen short of Federal guidelines. From 2017 to March 2020, only 23.2% of children and 14.7% of adults met the DGA’s fruit recommendations for their age and sex group.
Fruit consumption levels tied to health behaviors and awareness
ERS researchers also sought to understand how individual and societal factors relate to being in low—or high-consuming groups. They found the most significant factors in predicting high consumption are health behaviors, including engaging in physical activity and not smoking, and health knowledge captured by awareness of USDA’s MyPlate, a tool used to visualize recommendations for a healthy diet.
On the other hand, those who have these healthy behaviors and knowledge were less likely to be low-fruit consumers. Researchers also found income and fruit prices were not strongly associated with low or high consumption.
Source: Amber Waves, USDA
A study from Western New England University (WNE) suggests that regularly eating grapes can positively impact muscle gene expression, with particularly strong effects in females.
The research, recently published in the journal Foods, found that daily grape consumption alters muscle gene expression in ways that promote lean muscle mass and reduce markers of muscle degeneration.
“This study provides compelling evidence that grapes have the potential to enhance muscle health at the genetic level,” said Dr. John Pezzuto, senior investigator of the study and professor and dean of the WNE College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
Alterations in muscle gene expression resulted in male and female muscle characteristics becoming more similar on a metabolic level.
The Role of Nutrigenomics
Nutrigenomics, the study of how diet influences gene expression, played a central role in this research. Grapes, rich in natural compounds called phytochemicals, have been shown to impact various aspects of health, from heart and kidney function to skin and eye health.
In this study, researchers examined the effects of consuming two servings of grapes per day on muscle gene expression patterns. The results demonstrated that grape consumption altered over 20,000 genes, significantly influencing muscle metabolism.
The study also revealed that genes associated with good muscle health—such as those linked to lean muscle mass—were elevated, while genes tied to muscle deterioration were suppressed. These findings suggest that dietary interventions, like adding grapes to one’s diet, could serve as a complementary approach to traditional muscle maintenance strategies, such as exercise and protein-rich nutrition.
Future Research Directions
The WNE research team aims to further investigate the mechanisms behind these genetic changes and determine how quickly they occur in human subjects. As the field of nutrigenomics continues to evolve, this study opens the door for new dietary approaches to muscle health across different age groups.
A recently published report shows that increasing consumer demand for healthy snacks, rising awareness of nutritional benefits, and the growing popularity of plant-based diets drive the market expansion of dry fruits in the U.S.
The market is forecast to reach an estimated US$4.89 billion by 2033, compared to US$3.14 billion in 2024. This growth signifies a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate of 5.08% from 2025 to 2033.
Almonds, walnuts, pistachios, cashews, raisins, apricots, and dates are among the most popular dry fruits. These fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.
Dry fruits are increasingly popular in the USA as convenient and healthy snacks because of their numerous health benefits. These include boosting heart health by lowering cholesterol, improving digestion due to their high fiber content, and supporting weight management by promoting satiety.
Due to their easy-to-eat format and packaging, dry fruits are becoming increasingly popular among American consumers. They are drawn to their convenience, portability, and ability to provide sustained energy.
Dry fruits are widely embraced in fitness circles for boosting energy and aiding post-workout recovery, making them a staple in health-conscious households.
According to the report, the shift toward plant-based eating is another key growth driver in the dry fruits market. Many consumers opt for vegetarian or vegan diets, increasing the demand for plant-derived nutrient sources. They are often used as meat substitutes in recipes or as an energy-dense snack.
The report also notes that the rise of e-commerce platforms has revolutionized the U.S.’s dry fruit market. Consumers now have easy access to a diverse range of dry fruit products, including organic, flavored, and exotic varieties, with the convenience of doorstep delivery.
Online platforms often provide detailed product information, reviews, and competitive pricing, encouraging informed purchasing decisions. Subscription services and bulk-buying options have also made it easier for consumers to integrate dry fruits into their daily diets.
As e-commerce grows, it is expected further to increase the sales and visibility of dry fruits nationwide.
A newly published study expands on previous research that demonstrated the long-term consumption of mixed nuts can significantly lower total and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels. This latest research aimed to provide a deeper understanding of the connection between nut intake and the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) related to lipoproteins.
The findings revealed that regular consumption of mixed nuts markedly enhances blood lipid profiles, leading to changes in specific lipoprotein subclasses that are associated with improved heart health. These insights shed light on the positive impact nuts can have on blood lipid levels.
The study was designed as a randomized, controlled crossover trial that examined the effects of daily mixed nut consumption on lipoprotein particle levels in older adults classified as overweight or obese.
A total of 28 participants completed two 16-week periods. The first 8 weeks were used as a control phase with no nut consumption, and the next 8 weeks as an intervention phase. An 8-week washout period separated the two phases.
During the intervention phase, participants consumed 60 grams of mixed nuts daily, including 15 grams each of walnuts, pistachios, cashews, and hazelnuts.
“Our results suggest that incorporating mixed nuts into the diet may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in older adults,” noted Dr. Peter Joris and Dr. Kevin Nijssen from Maastricht University in the Netherlands.
Researchers assessed the impact of nut consumption on lipoprotein particle numbers, sizes, and lipid content across various subclasses using an advanced NMR metabolomics platform.
he California Walnut Commission says walnuts now meet the updated definition for a healthy food, according to the Food and Drug Administration’s updated definition for foods that can be identified or labeled as healthy.
The commission called the move a significant step toward ensuring food labeling is consistent with the most up-to-date nutrition scientific evidence and Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommendations.
The 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans encourages consumers to choose nutrient-dense foods, such as walnuts. The commission said close to two-thirds of Americans do not meet the recommended intake for nuts and seeds.
“The inclusion of walnuts in the new ‘healthy’ definition affirms consumers’ belief that walnuts are a healthy food. It also aligns with decades of nutrition research reinforcing the important contributions walnuts can make in a healthy lifestyle,” California Walnut Commission CEO Robert Verloop said in a news release. “It’s simple. Just adding walnuts to Americans’ daily diet can potentially have wide-ranging positive impacts.”
Substituting walnuts for food choices higher in saturated fats can help support Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommendations to replace consumption of saturated fats with unsaturated fats, the commission said.
The total fat in walnuts (18 grams) is mostly composed of polyunsaturated fats (13 grams per ounce), including omega-3 ALA (2.5 grams per ounce), an essential fatty acid with the potential to support heart health and cognition, according to the release. Walnuts are the only tree nut to provide an excellent source of omega-3 ALA.
“In my 20-plus years of practicing nutrition at a major medical institution, I have seen trends go in and out for what the public considers healthy,” said Kristin Kirkpatrick, registered dietitian nutritionist. “But what has always been foundational is the role plant-based foods like walnuts play in supporting health. Walnuts are one nut I find consistently meets the variable needs of patients in my practice. In practice, I focus on evidence-based approaches to reducing chronic disease risk, weight management, and improvements in metabolic health.”