Functional Food News and Research

Latest Functional Food News and Research

Is hemp the superfood vegetarians have been waiting for?

This recent study in the journal Nutrients delves into the nutritional power of hemp seeds, highlighting their potential as a rich source of proteins, essential fatty acids, and dietary fiber—particularly valuable for vegetarians. The paper also suggests that hemp could offer numerous health benefits, from antioxidant activity to potentially aiding in metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, paving the way for more focused research.

22 Sep 2023

An update on the health benefits of olive oil

Researchers summarize recent evidence on the clinical impact of olive oil on human health.

29 Aug 2023

Can the fermentation of foods enhance their antioxidant properties?

In a recent editorial published in Fermentation, researchers highlighted the use of fermentation as a means to increase the antioxidant potential of foods.

29 Aug 2023

The potential of gut-microbiota-targeted reprogramming interventions designed to prevent the onset and progression of cardiovascular diseases

Researchers discuss the potential of probiotic- and prebiotic-based interventions for managing cardiovascular diseases.

28 Aug 2023

The impact of oat consumption on the gut microbiota

The relationship between the gut microbiome and oat consumption.

15 Aug 2023

Study reveals the health and dietary benefits of consuming cardamom

A new study by Texas A&M AgriLife revealed a range of health and dietary benefits of consuming cardamom, including increased appetite, fat loss and inflammation reduction, making the spice a "superfood."

13 Aug 2023

Are mushrooms an effective early dietary intervention for Alzheimer’s Disease?

In a study published in the journal Foods, researchers reviewed available literature on the potential anti-Alzheimer's disease properties of mushrooms.

9 Aug 2023

Do nutrient-enriched foods improve human health?

Researchers collated scientific evidence on advancements in research for nutrient-rich foods.

7 Aug 2023

Pecans may help prevent obesity and reduce inflammation, study shows

Daily consumption of pecans have been shown to prevent obesity and a host of related health issues like fatty liver disease and diabetes, according to a collaborative study by Texas A&M AgriLife scientists.

1 Aug 2023

Dealcoholized muscadine wine may improve skin elasticity

Could muscadine wine help perk up sagging skin? According to a new study, women who drank two glasses of dealcoholized muscadine wine daily showed significant improvements in the elasticity and water retention of their skin compared with those who consumed a placebo.

24 Jul 2023

From deserts to desserts: cacti components for new functional foods

Researchers described promising features of using cactus in the food sector, addressing the plant's functional, nutritional, and sustainable qualities.

29 Jun 2023

Sea cucumbers could be key ingredient in preventing diabetes

Sea cucumbers are a marine delicacy loved across Asia, but the humble sea cucumber is also proving to be a key ingredient in preventing diabetes, according to new research from the University of South Australia.

10 Jun 2023

Gut health boost: Functional foods and herbs show promise in tackling SARS-CoV-2 variants

Functional foods and natural herbs have the potential to enhance immune function and maintain gut microbiota diversity. This review explores their role in mitigating the impact of SARS-CoV-2 variants on gut health and overall well-being.

8 Jun 2023

Supercharge your health with carotenoids

This review highlights carotenoids' various biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-tumor, anti-diabetic, anti-aging, and anti-inflammatory effects, with a specific focus on lycopene.

15 May 2023

How eating mushrooms may lower blood pressure levels

Scientists review the potential of edible mushrooms as functional foods in improving cardiovascular function and ameliorating hypertension.

11 May 2023

Eating sardines vs. fish oil supplements: study evaluates the nutritional benefit beyond fatty acids

Researchers compared the impact of consuming sardines versus fish oil supplements.

18 Apr 2023

Is there a correlation between acute and chronic red wine intake and health?

Researchers examined the correlations between acute and chronic red wine (RW) intake and health.

18 Apr 2023

How does soy consumption affect the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases?

A higher intake of plant protein could effectively improve metabolic health and lower CVD mortality. Recently, scientists in China reviewed existing literature and conducted a meta-analysis to understand the association between increased soy consumption and the risk of T2D and CVDs. This review is available in the journal Nutrients.

15 Mar 2023

Researchers uncover the secret to the health benefits of brown rice

Asian diets feature rice as a staple grain, contributing towards nearly 90% of the world's rice consumption.

19 Jan 2023

Discovery could affect the search for new Alzheimer's drugs

Alzheimer's disease is associated with a reduction of insulin receptors in brain microvessels, which may contribute to brain insulin resistance and the formation of amyloid plaques, one of the disease's hallmarks.

25 Oct 2022