As Jamie Oliver wraps up filming 'Food Revolution,' a show that promotes healthy eating, hospital donates $80,000 to fund assessment and overhaul of menus of West Virginia county's 28 public schools. Hospital also donates $50,000 to keep chef's teaching kitchen open. And: Naked Chef isn't a diet cop; he's about scratch cooking, which means avoiding processed and fast food, learning pride of ownership, encouraging sparks of creativity and finding reasons to gather family and friends in one place (click 'See also').

By Veronica Nett

The Charleston Gazette (WV) 2009-11-21

See also

Start-up says health care reform begins on the plate

Start-up with backing from Groupe Danone undertakes health care reform by using a simple, low-tech premise: Eat healthier food to become healthier. Idea is to help companies move employees to better diets that, the logic goes, will reduce medical needs, thus cutting costs. Food is cheapest, simplest, most pleasurable way to deal with health, says head of Full Yield. Study shows that 75 percent of country's $2.5 trillion in health care spending addresses increasingly prevalent chronic diseases: obesity, Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, cancer.

By Melanie Warner

The New York Times 2009-11-29

Diabetes rates likely to double, may exceed all projected Medicare costs

Diabetes cases projected to nearly double in U.S. in next 25 years, nearly tripling care costs; Medicare spending on diabetes expected to jump from $45 billion to $171 billion and could exceed projections for all Medicare costs, study shows. Researchers' estimates based on stable obesity rates. Greatest growth in obesity has been among obese diabetics who are getting heavier, but focusing solely on overall obesity rates minimizes the magnitude of a massive public health problem, says researcher.

By Deborah L. Shelton

Chicago Tribune 2009-11-27

Experts rethinking nature of alcohol and addiction

Humans rarely reach point of powerlessness over alcohol, addiction experts say. Many drinkers can evaluate habits and, using knowledge about genetic and behavioral risks of addiction, change them if necessary. Even some people with alcohol-use disorders, they say, can cut back before it disrupts education, ruins careers and damages health. Data suggest there are two forms of alcohol disorders: one in which the need for a drink takes over a person's life, and form in which people drink heavily for a period but then cut down and recover. And: Novelist Mary Karr describes her drinking in 'Lit' (click 'See also').

By Shari Roan

Los Angeles Times 2009-11-16

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Major study shows fasting unnecessary before cholesterol test

Fasting unnecessary before cholesterol tests, results from major study show. Cambridge researchers found that results from 300,000 people in 68 long-term surveys in 21 countries were just as accurate if patient had eaten before test. Study adds to ongoing controversy over whether testing for blood proteins called apolipoproteins is more reliable way of predicting heart risk than cholesterol testing.

BBC News 2009-11-11

Palm oil group rebuked for failing to include GHG standards in criteria

Palm oil group, at meeting, chooses not to include greenhouse gas emissions standards in criteria for 'sustainable' palm oil, but agrees on emissions from fertilizer use, fuel use, mill wastes, maintenance of water level in plantations on peat. Among 389 members are Unilever, Nestle, Conservation International, WWF. Environmental group publishes list of loopholes in accord; another calls it 'greenwash.' And: Palm oil, used in margarine, shortening, baked goods, candies, is high in saturated fat and promotes heart disease, research shows (click 'See also).

By Pete Browne

The New York Times 2009-11-06

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Lobbyists fight soda tax as health care reform funding source

During the first nine months of 2009, soda makers, supermarket companies, agriculture, fast-food business spent more than $24 million lobbying Congress on issue of tax on sweetened beverages plus other legislative and regulatory issues, reports show. Coalition fears what could be movement to raise money for health care reform by taxing sweetened beverages. Farm-dominated Senate Finance Committee sympathetic to food industry; Max Baucus hails from Montana, large producer of sugar beets; Iowa, home state of Chuck Grassley, is nation's largest producer of corn.

By Christine Spolar and Joseph Eaton

The Huffington Post 2009-11-06

Opinion: Health care new battlefront for more food industry rules

Nevil C. Speer

Agriculture under siege from unrelenting campaign bent on denigrating our mission to feed the world; new front of battle is personal and global connotations (or lack thereof) for all types of food - McDonald's hamburgers, bean sprouts - and/or production systems. Anti-agriculture activists, food police potentially have new venue - health care - for uniting; convergence enables them to leverage ideology, impose new regulation. Agriculture, entire food industry has as much, if not more, stake in this debate than any other industry. We better get with it.

By Nevil C. Speer

Cattle Network 2009-11-04

Senate's plan to reward diet, exercise choices criticized

Rewarding employees for losing weight, exercising undercuts reformists' anti-bias vow for those with pre-existing medical conditions and could mean higher insurance rates for less-fit Americans, critics of Senate plan say. Safeway grocery chain uses reduced car insurance premiums for good drivers as model. If employees pass annual test that measures obesity, blood pressure, cholesterol and smoking, they get 20 percent discount on insurance cost. And: Seventy percent of health-care costs are direct result of behavior; 74 percent of all costs caused by heart disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity, writes Safeway head (click 'See also').

By Janet Hook

Los Angeles Times 2009-11-04

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Cooking methods can cut disease risk, study shows

Switching cooking methods to poaching, stewing, steaming, plus avoiding pre-packaged and fast foods reduces compounds in body that may increase risk of diabetes, heart disease, study shows. Toxic compounds, ubiquitous and addictive since they add flavor to foods, are produced by heating, pasteurization, drying, smoking, frying or grilling, researcher says.

By Stephen Daniells

nutraingredients.com/Decision News Media 2009-11-04

Study links depression to diet heavy in processed foods

People with diet heavy in processed foods more vulnerable to depression than those with highest intake of whole foods, limited British study indicates. Researchers say that food should play greater role in preventing depressive disorders. Beneficial effect could be from cumulative effect of several nutrients - folate, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants; depression link could be caused by heart disease, inflammation, both aggravated by highly processed diet.

By Jess Halliday

nutraingredients.com/Decision News Media 2009-11-02

School meals may face more pork if USDA buys surplus

Feds undecided on whether to buy $50 million of pork to support industry; producers ask that it go for food assistance programs. And: Nation's schoolchildren are fed, in large part, by over-produced agricultural commodities that are promised a market by Farm Bill (click 'See also'). USDA buys hundreds of millions of pounds of excess beef, pork, milk and other meat and dairy products to bolster or normalize dropping prices, then dumps raw commodities into National School Lunch Program. Nearly half of U.S. children forecast to be overweight or obese by 2010.

By Charles Abbott

Reuters 2009-10-22

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Junk food, heroin elicit similar addictive behaviors in rat study

IBC

Diet of Ho Hos, sausage, pound cake, bacon and cheesecake elicits addictive behavior in rats similar to behaviors of rats addicted to heroin, study shows. Pleasure centers in brains of rats addicted to junk food became less responsive as bingeing wore on, so rats ate more and became obese - despite receiving foot shock while eating high-fat foods. When junk food was replaced with nutritious chow ('salad,' says researcher), obese rats refused to eat. And: For 40 of 43 rats, sweetened water wins out over cocaine (click 'See also').

By Laura Sanders

Discovery News/Science News 2009-10-21

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Some diabetics choose diet, exercise over trend of insulin

Some Type 2 diabetics buck trend of lifestyle, medicines, then insulin, and with help of like-minded physicians, choose rigorous diet and exercise. But other physicians say main goal is blood sugar control. All agree that controlled diet, weight loss, exercise beneficial. Weight loss reduces blood sugar, decreases medicine need, brings lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure. And: Gut hormones - incretins - might reboot pancreas for those with the diet-related disease (click 'See also').

By Marni Jameson

Los Angeles Times 2009-10-26

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Cut calories, add vegetables, whole grains to school lunches

Panel calls for calorie, sodium limits in USDA school lunch program, plus weekly amounts for dark green and orange vegetables, grains, and animal protein/dairy for each age group. Fruits, vegetables are not interchangeable, it said. It also calls for replacement of refined grains with whole grains, and for low-fat or skim milk. Recommendations reflect 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans; standards for school meals haven't been updated since 1995. Institute of Medicine panel says feds must increase reimbursement to fund changes.

By Mary MacVean

Los Angeles Times 2009-10-20

Pesticides, pollution in food supply linked to obesity epidemic

Environmental chemicals may well account for good part of obesity epidemic, especially in those under 50, and may cause spike in infant obesity rates. Certain hormone-mimicking pollutants throughout food chain act on genes in developing fetus, newborns to reprogram precursor cells into lifelong fat cells, and they may alter metabolic rate, turning body into physiological Scrooge, research shows. Other research reports that the more pesticides children were exposed to as fetuses, the greater their risk of being overweight as toddlers; children exposed to higher levels of PCBs and DDT-related chemical before birth were fatter than others.

By Sharon Begley

Newsweek magazine 2009-09-21

Citing state's obesity bill, mayor wants fee from stores that sell sugary drinks

San Francisco mayor plans bill that would charge fee to retailers that sell sugary beverages. Motivation is UCLA study that links soda, obesity in California. Adults who drink at least one soft drink daily are 27 percent more likely to be obese than those who don't, researchers say, and soda consumption is fueling state's $41 billion annual obesity bill. San Francisco would be first city to levy fee on soda if, as expected, it is approved. And: Tax of penny per ounce on such drinks would raise $14.9 billion in its first year (click 'See also').

By Heather Knight

San Francisco Chronicle 2009-09-18

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Medicaid needs policy guidelines on diet-related disease care

Medicaid should hasten policy rules on obesity-related services for children, and consider need for guidance on similar services for adults, GAO says in report requested by Sen. Max Baucus. Many children, adults in Medicaid program are obese and need preventive services. And: Last year, Medicare spent $7 billion on diet-related disease drugs; obesity-related medical treatments cost $147 billion in 2008 (click 'See also').

American Hospital Association 2009-09-14

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Make obesity prevention national priority, researchers urge

With more than 92 percent of Americans at risk for heart disease, potential exists to reverse ominous trends if obesity prevention becomes national priority and is folded into schools, workplaces, researchers write. Looming problems are blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, all time bombs, since 32 percent of U.S. children are now overweight or obese. Once they reach adulthood, their heart-disease risk could cause national numbers to explode. Authors call for physicians to be reimbursed for prevention measures, including weight-loss plans. And: Real source of obesity epidemic is federal corn subsidies (click 'See also').

By Jeffrey Kluger

Time magazine 2009-09-14

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Calibrated school lunches undermined by twice-daily junk food buys

Children's ritual visits to corner market - often before and after school - add average of 360 calories (per visit) to their daily total, subverting fine-tuning of school lunches, upping their odds of obesity-related disease. Food Trust, other Philadelphia health groups see opportunity to reduce calories, and chopped fruit salad sales are up, but their 50-cent bottled water languishes. No mystery: Mini-Hugs (colored sugar water) fly off the shelf at 25 cents, which leaves a quarter to buy a cake called Elim's Delight.

By Rick Nichols

The Philadelphia Inquirer 2009-09-17

Soda tax gains traction as health care funding source

Prominent doctors, scientists, policy makers say soda tax could be powerful weapon in reducing obesity, as cigarette taxes help curb smoking. Tax of penny per ounce on soft drinks, energy drinks, sports beverages, many juices and iced teas would raise $14.9 billion in its first year. Soda research shows that for every 10 percent rise in price, consumption falls 8 to 10 percent. Expert says tax is justified in part because obesity, diabetes often treated with public funds through Medicaid, Medicare.

By William Neuman

The New York TImes 2009-09-16

Opinion: Feds subsidize causes, treatment of diet-related disease

By not addressing food system reform in health care reform, government is putting itself in position of subsidizing both the costs of treating Type 2 diabetes and consumption of high-fructose corn syrup. One of the leading products of American food industry has become patients for American health care industry. When terms like 'pre-existing conditions' vanish, relationship between health insurance industry and food industry will change. When health insurers can no longer evade costs of treating results of American diet, food system reform movement - farm policy, food marketing, school lunches - will gain powerful, wealthy ally.

By Michael Pollan

The New York TImes 2009-09-10

Weed extract shows promise against diet-related disease

www.invasive.org/weedus/index.html

States where kudzu is considered invasive.

Kudzu, long used as health food in China, Japan, shows promise in fight against metabolic syndrome. After two months of taking root extract, rats in study had lower cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar, and insulin levels than control group. Invasive vine covers 10 million acres in South. And: Study shows kudzu's ability to cut alcohol consumption (click 'See also').

Science Daily 2009-08-27

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Cut sugar intake for optimum health, says heart group

Big Stock Photo

Citing links to diet-related diseases, American Heart Association sets suggested limits on sugar intake for men, women. Soft drinks, ketchup, barbecue sauce, 'reduced' salad dressings, granola bars, flavored popcorn among processed, packaged items packing extra sugar calories. And: Our brains aren't fooled by sugar substitutes, fMRI study shows (click 'See also').

By Sarah Baldauf

U.S. News & World Report 2009-08-24

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Opinion: Toward a smarter, sustainable food supply

Radical changes in the way we grow food (click 'See also') will increase our grocery bills, and that doesn't make sense in recession. But shoppers, farmers, ranchers, policymakers could help create a more sustainable agricultural system by examining impact of potential farm on water supply, soil resources and manure disposal; supporting experiments that explore smart use of water; choosing locally grown produce and products, and meats raised on less corn and without antibiotics. Feds should look for opportunities to buy produce from local farmers who use techniques that don't damage soils or environment.

The editors

The Dallas Morning News 2009-08-28

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Diet, not exercise, more effective in weight loss efforts

It's what you eat, not how hard you try to work it off, that matters more in losing weight, researchers discovering. In addition to enhancing heart health and helping prevent disease, exercise improves mental health, cognitive ability. Many obesity researchers now believe that very frequent, low-level physical activity may work better than occasional bouts of exercise as a gym rat, especially if reward for hard workout is perfectly salted, golden-brown French fries.

By John Cloud

Time magazine 2009-08-09

Obesity and the rush to judgment of gluttony, sloth

Despite U.S. status as XL nation (CDC says 66 percent of adults are overweight or obese), there's still stigma, anger against fat. As nation, we value hard work and discipline, and it's hard to accept that weight isn't just gluttony or sloth. Fat self is 'bad self,' says one expert; another says that people who are angry at themselves for not being able to manage their weight are more likely to be biased. Then there's idea that our woes result from difficult circumstances, while others make bad choices. Anger, too, is ego-boosting, says another. Then there's report that obesity costs $147 billion a year, mainly in insurance premiums and taxes. Better goal is to fight obesity, not obese.

By Kate Dailey and Abby Ellin

Newsweek.com 2009-08-26

Prescription drug use rates follow rise in diet-related disease

Incidence of diet-related disease pushes West Virginia, Alabama, South Carolina, Tennessee, Arkansas, Louisiana, Kentucky and Missouri above national average in prescription drug use rates. West Virginia filled 17.7 prescriptions per capita compared to national average of 11.5. In 2008, prescription drug sales reached $291.5 billion. And: Heart group links diet-related disease to sugary beverages, urges 100-calorie limit for women, 150 for men (click 'See also').

By Rebecca Ruiz

Forbes magazine 2009-08-17

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'Unknown' cholesterol in fried, processed foods tied to heart woes

Oxycholesterol, found in fried foods, processed foods, may pose biggest heart health threat, researchers say. In hamster study, substance boosted total cholesterol levels as much as 22 percent and left deposits of cholesterol in artery linings. Oxidized cholesterol likely isn't affected by statin medicines, but researcher says that antioxidant diet rich in phytosterols and phytostanols, found in vegetables, fruits, whole grains (click 'See also') would decrease cholesterol absorption.

By Stephen Daniells

nutraingredients.com/Decision News Media 2009-08-21

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Solving U.S. food crisis begins with awakening the public

Industrial food system is based on selective forgetting and hidden costs: erosion of farmland, dead zones in the Gulf of Mexico, cages for egg-laying chickens so packed that birds can't raise their wings, rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria among farm animals, acceleration of global warming, lapses in food safety, obesity epidemic that cost us extra $147 billion in doctor bills last year, the $50 billion-plus of taxpayer money poured into corn industry in last 10 years that makes fatty, sugary foods cheap and funds factory-farming of meat. With those price supports, a dollar buys 875 calories of soda, 250 calories of vegetables or 170 calories of fresh fruit. Consequences of food choices can no longer be ignored.

By Bryan Walsh

Time magazine 2009-08-20

Physician forced out after disparaging doughnut chain's product

Florida health department physician fighting 'controversial' one-man war against obesity resigns under fire after county commissioner and lawyers who own doughnut stores take offense at signs that parody its slogan - 'America Runs on Dunkin.'' He is reapplying for his job. In 2007, 39 percent of all adults were overweight; one in four was considered obese in his Gulf Coast area of practice.

By Melissa Nelson

The Associated Press; Houston Chronicle (TX) 2009-08-13

Taking political responsibility for cutting obesity rates

Anyone who smoked in an elementary-school hallway today would be thrown out. But if you served an obesity-inducing, federally financed meal to kindergarten student, you would fit right in. Parents are working longer, and eating takeout; real price of fruits, vegetables has risen 40-plus percent in 30 years; soda prices have fallen 33 percent. Solutions to obesity epidemic involve civic - even political - responsibility. They depend on the kind of collective action that helped cut smoking rates nearly in half.

By David Leonhardt

The New York Times 2009-08-16

Opinion: With Child Nutrition Act, Congress must keep children's well-being, not industry, in mind

With upcoming reauthorization of the Child Nutrition Act, which regulates National School Lunch Program, Congress must reform policies that encourage children to eat unhealthy foods and that contribute to obesity epidemic, rising health-care costs. In 2007, the government allocated majority of child nutrition funds to meat, dairy, and eggs, only about 20 percent to fruits, vegetables. And: Primer on the bill, and how to get involved (click 'See also').

By Susan Levine

McClatchy-Tribune News Service; The Miami Herald 2009-08-02

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Opinion: Obesity epidemic demands prime-time address, slice in subsidies

When a quarter of your population has diabetes or is at risk, that screams for prime-time address. Obama has made no dent in farm subsidies that help agribusiness overproduce worthless calories, help Coke, Pepsi, McDonalds rank among most profitable companies for trash food and drinks. Capitol Hill must cut fat of subsidies, impose taxes on trash food producers, support cities and suburbs in redesigning streets, parks to support people who want to cycle or go out for a run and children who want to play outside.

By Derrick Z. Jackson

The Boston Globe 2009-08-01

Obesity epidemic ignored in health-care reform bills

Most health-care reform legislators ignore obesity epidemic. Expert says society uncomfortable with, or hasn't determined, reasons behind fat. She says it's a health care issue; conservative districts with most obese populations see fat as personal willpower/responsibility issue. Political danger alarms ring over data showing that obesity disproportionately affects poor and minority communities. Soda tax proposal seen as radical; food and beverage lobby spent $20 million-plus in Washington lobbying in 2008, contributed $15 million-plus to political campaigns in 2008 cycle. And: Obesity causing diseases that cost $147 billion last year, nearly 10 percent of all medical spending in nation (click 'See also').

By Lisa Lerer

Politico 2009-07-30

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Diet-related disease prevention enters debate on health care

In Congress, debate simmers over whether health care legislation should include preventive measures - farmers' markets, sidewalks, bike paths - to curb diet-related disease. Draft Senate bill would provide up to $10 billion annually for such community interventions; a 2008 report suggested that for $10 a person, U.S. could save $16 billion annually within five years in lower health care costs. Other lawmakers see ideas as wasteful spending.

By Kristina Sherry

Chicago Tribune 2009-08-05

Opinion: Growing, eating less meat benefits us, planet

Breaking meat addiction is important for our survival as individuals, and for our planet. Reduce the excess meat in your diet and you'll reduce your risk of developing certain cancers. Producing one kilogram of beef produces 15-25kg of greenhouse gas emissions. If a steak became a treat and not every pot had a chicken in it every night, the food system could produce less and farmers still receive fair returns.

By Jess Halliday

nutraingredients.com/Decision News Media 2009-07-27

Anti-hot dog warnings included at hospital's new heart-failure clinic

Massachusetts hospital starts heart-failure clinic after learning its weak link for re-admissions is transition to home. It provides list of off-limits foods, adds phone system that relays patients' daily vital signs. But one patient didn't get the no-hot dog warning, was readmitted; nurse learned that sodium in baked beans, daily lunches from Meals on Wheels, plus hot dog (with 1,000 mg sodium), likely contributed.

By Ron Winslow and Jacob Goldstein

The Wall Street Journal. (may require subscription) 2009-07-28

Diet-related disease drives up health-care costs, study shows

Each obese patient cost health insurers, federal programs $1,429, or 42 percent more than normal-weight patient in 2006, study shows. Obesity-related medical treatments cost $147 billion in 2008, an 87 percent increase in past decade; rates of obesity, a major cause of diabetes, stroke, heart attacks, have more than doubled in last 30 years. Last year, Medicare spent $7 billion on diet-related disease drugs. A person is obese if body mass index is greater than 30 or weighs about 186 pounds for a person who is five feet, six inches tall. And: Calculate your BMI (click 'See also').

By Shannon Pettypiece

Bloomberg 2009-07-27

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Finding parallels in strategy of food industry, Big Tobacco

As diet-related disease epidemic continues, food industry strategy following page from Big Tobacco's playbook: Focus on personal responsibility as cause of nation's unhealthy diet, raise fears that government action usurps personal freedom, vilify critics with totalitarian language, criticize studies that hurt industry as 'junk science,' emphasize physical activity over diet, say there are no good or bad foods, and plant doubt when concerns are raised about industry.

By Kelly D. Brownell and Kenneth E. Warner

Milbank Quarterly 2009-03-01

Cargill cuts plant's production of hydrogenated oil

Cargill ends production of hydrogenated oil at Kansas plant. Demand has declined by 75 percent over last five years. Oil has been linked to artery clogging, heart disease; in 2006, FDA began requiring its presence listed on nutrition labels. Artificially created trans fats have been banned in New York City, Philadelphia and in California. And: FDA rules that allow up to 0.49g of trans fat per serving to be rounded to zero dupes shoppers (click 'See also').

By Caroline Scott-Thomas

nutraingredients.com/Decision News Media 2009-07-21

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Three books offer dark view of obesity epidemic

In three books, authors examine possible causes of obesity epidemic. We evolved on the treacherous savannahs but now live in Candyland ('The Evolution of Obesity,' by Michael L. Power and Jay Schulkin); putting on pounds made financial sense because costs of fats, oils and sodas dropped ('The Fattening of America,' by Eric Finkelstein and Laurie Zuckerman); and 'eatertainment' items containing fat, sugar, salt have been reëngineered to 'unlock the code of craveability' and 'cram as much hedonics as you can in one dish' ('The End of Overeating,' David A. Kessler). But problem goes beyond Value Meals, oceans of high-fructose corn syrup. Collecting maximum number of calories with least amount of effort is dream of every creature, even those too primitive to dream.

By Elizabeth Kolbert

The New Yorker 2009-07-20

First Lady sharpens focus to policies linked to obesity, preventive care, family support

whitehouse.gov

After several months of focusing on her family, her garden and inspiring young people, Michelle Obama toughens message while taking care not to overstep bounds. She is taking on obesity, preventive care and corresponding government policies and legislation, as well as those of supporting military, working families.

By Rachel L. Swarns

The New York TImes 2009-07-18

First Lady, staff focusing on children's food issues

Challenge for Michelle Obama and staff is to craft strategy that uses her clout to make how we eat an integral part of national health-care debate. In September, during Congressional debate over funding for child nutrition programs including school meals, staffers say First Lady will continue to link personal to political by gardening and by cooking - and by eating with her family and with students.

By Jane Black

The Washington Post 2009-07-15

As workers' diet-related health costs rise, employer mandates checkups

After years of steep costs for employees' diabetes, heart disease, Pennsylvania firm mandates free health testing and some workers get 'wake-up call,' make diet, lifestyle changes. In health reform efforts, chronic conditions like diabetes are major focus - they affect 130 million-plus Americans, account for three-quarters of total health spending.

By Anna Mathews

The Wall Street Journal. (may require subscription) 2009-07-08

Opinion: Changing the food system, one meal at a time

Solutions to myriad problems with industrial food system aren't simple, and they may mean paying more for what we eat. But that could mean costs savings for fewer cases of diabetes, other diet-related diseases. We have power, the film, 'Food, Inc.' points out: 'You can vote to change the system three times a day.'

By Nicholas D. Kristof

The New York Times 2009-06-20

Real source of obesity epidemic is federal corn subsidies

While one hand of federal government campaigns against obesity epidemic, the other hand subsidizes it by writing farmers a check for every bushel of corn they can grow - undermining public-health goals by loosing tide of cheap calories. Challenge is to rewrite those rules, to develop new set of agricultural policies that don't subsidize overproduction - and overeating. Unless we deal with mountain of cheap grain that makes Happy Meal and Double Stuf Oreo such 'bargains,' calories will keep coming.

By Michael Pollan

The New York Times 2003-10-12

Physicians, others ask Obama for anti-obesity commission

Group of physicians, health organizations, nutrition experts ask Obama to create presidential commission to fight obesity. Commission would stimulate, coordinate agencies involved in food and health policy. Obesity costs $95 billion annually in medical expenditures, half of which are paid through Medicare and Medicaid; obesity rates have increased by 50 percent in 20 years. And: Previous corn-based public health crisis was not obesity but alcoholism, in early 19th century (click 'See also').

Center for Science in the Public Interest 2009-06-24

See also

Penny-pinching food choices fuel obesity epidemic

Number of Americans considered obese jumps 1.7 percent - almost 5.5 million people - in last year. Between 2003 and 2006, CDC measured no real growth in American obesity levels. The obese were less likely to have access to food, shelter and health care. Researchers speculate that increased stress of recession, combined with cost of healthy fresh foods (as compared to processed food), to blame.

By Kate Dailey

Newsweek/The Human Condition 2009-06-01

Opinion: Losing ability to tax 'entertainment' edibles

Idea that junk foods (those high in salt, fat and empty carbohydrates but low in nutrients) can escape tax category of entertainment products like cigarettes or booze gives unfair tax and price advantage to non-nutritious edibles over real food. Joining feds' scheme that harmonizes provincial and federal sales taxes means Ontario is giving up a cost-neutral way to shift behavior toward healthier choices, lower medical expenses. 'Pseudo-foods' account for about 31 per cent of supermarket sales.

By Wayne Roberts

Now Magaine (Toronto) 2009-04-08

Researchers find vinegar impedes fat buildup

Vinegar could prevent fat buildup, thus weight gain, mouse study shows. Vinegar worked at genetic level, by influencing genes linked to fatty acid oxidation and energy burning proteins, researchers learned. Previous research linked vinegar intake to eating less, reduction in cravings brought on by sugar peaks after meals. And: Adding vinegar to foods could enhance perception of saltiness (click 'See also').

By Stephen Daniells,

nutraingredients.com/ Decision News Media 2009-06-18

See also

Growing sensible eating habits, with fast food as treat

At White House garden, Michelle Obama casts campaign for homegrown food as sensible eating strategy. She says that fighting obesity requires improving access to fresh produce in low-income communities, offering more nutritious food at schools, and overhauling how American families eat. She linked healthful eating to two major legislative initiatives: reauthorization of child nutrition programs, which fund school breakfast and lunch programs, and health-care reform. And: Watch the speech (click 'See also').

By Jane Black

The Washington Post 2009-06-17

See also

Difficulty of diet changes hinders prevention as reform goal

Despite broad consensus that it's cheaper to keep people healthy than to treat them for disease, rewards often fail to match costs of widespread testing and monitoring people with chronic diseases. Obstacles: Much of money spent on disease prevention goes for healthy people, and taking up regular exercise or eating healthier food is difficult, expert says.

By Janet Adamy

The Wall Street Journal. (may require subscription) 2009-06-12

Review: Serving up a horror film for the dinner table

Food, Inc.

Needy family skips high-priced fruits, vegetables, choosing cheap fast food so dad can afford diabetes medicine.

"Food, Inc.," a mind-boggling, heart-rending, stomach-churning expose on food industry, makes case with methodical, relentless urgency of muckrakers trying to radicalize - or rouse - a dozing populace. And: Film shows we're living in a simulacrum, fed by machines run by larger machines with names like Monsanto, Perdue, Tyson that make everything (click 'See also'). We humans can win, but we should hurry, before Monsanto makes a time machine and sends back a Terminator to get rid of Eric Schlosser, Michael Pollan.

By Amy Biancolli

San Francisco Chronicle 2009-06-12

See also

Legislation would include study of tobacco candy

Tobacco candy, estimated to contain half to three times nicotine of a cigarette, likely to to be studied for public health risks, especially to children. Lozenge-like Camel Orb in cell-phone shaped package being test-marketed in Portland, Indianapolis, Columbus. And: RJ Reynolds calls candy 'best tobacco you never smoked' (click 'See also').

By John Yaukey

Gannett News Service; Detroit Free Press 2008-05-20

See also

As recession deepens, dental care slips on priority list

Lost jobs, lost insurance, competing bills, plus fear of taking time off work and jeopardizing a job push dental care off priority list. But dentists warn against neglecting oral health; some accept payment plans, and clinics sometimes offer low-cost cleanings. And: Tooth problems make eating fresh produce difficult; diet heavy in soft, processed foods exacerbates serious ills, like diabetes (click 'See also').

By Mary Brophy Marcus

USA Today 2009-03-11

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Senate mulls soda 'sin tax' to fund health care reform

Senate leaders consider watchdog group's proposed tax on soda, some fruit drinks, energy drinks, sports drinks and ready-to-drink teas to help pay for health care reform. Proponents cite research linking consumption to diet-related disease, say tax would cut consumption, health problems, medical costs. Soda lobbyists say tax would hit lower-income Americans and wouldn't deter consumption. And: Amount of decline in smoking directly tied to size of state tax increase on cigarettes, analysis shows (click 'See also').

By Janet Adamy

The Wall Street Journal. (may require subscription) 2009-05-12

See also

Diet, lifestyle changes turn off disease-promoting genes, study shows

Major lifestyle changes, including eating diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and soy products, plus moderate exercise, daily stress management, changed genes of cancer patients, Dean Ornish study shows. Activity of disease-preventing genes increased; disease-promoting genes, including those involved in prostate cancer, breast cancer, shut down. 'In just three months, I can change hundreds of my genes simply by changing what I eat and how I live?' Exciting, says researcher.

By Will Dunham

Reuters 2009-05-11

Opinion: Reform health care by preventing diet-related chronic disease

Treating diet-related chronic disease accounts for 75 cents of every health care dollar, or $1.65 trillion in 2007, and 83 percent of Medicaid, 96 percent of Medicare. Nearly half of Americans have one or more chronic diseases; productivity loss is $1 trillion-plus per year. Though programs that reduce childhood obesity will cost money today, they will prevent heart disease 30 years later; feds must expand current 10-year time frame to determine true impact of healthier choices.

By Tommy G. Thompson

Politico 2009-04-30

Soot from primitive cooking stoves heating planet

Green Launches

Solar-powered oven called 'Kyoto Box' won its creator, Jon Bøhner, $75,000; a more durable version is in production in Nairobi (click 'See also').

Black carbon - soot from cooking with wood, dung or crop residues and from burning diesel, coal - found to be responsible for 18 percent of global warming. Replacing primitive cooking stoves could be stopgap, could avert worst projected consequences of global warming. Some villagers resist because food tastes different. Bill in Congress would require aid for black carbon reduction projects abroad, including introducing $20 solar-powered cookstoves in 20 million homes. And: $7 solar cooker wins $75,000 prize (click 'See also').

By Elisabeth Rosenthal

The New York Times 2009-04-16

See also

Opinion: Ban all junk food at schools

Despite progress in providing more healthful foods in schools through federal meals program, junk foods abound outside the program. New legislation to give USDA authority over all food sold at schools should be supported to help stem epidemic of childhood obesity, diet-related diseases. And: Take this quiz to see if you know junk food (click 'See also').

The editors

The New York TImes 2009-04-26

See also

Opinion: White House garden as revolutionary emissions reduction agent

Michelle Obama's garden and her message of eating fresh-picked food is truly subversive: Change America's eating habits, improve health, cut emissions, change the world. Globally, agricultural sector releases more greenhouse gases (click 'See also') in growing, transporting, meat production than any activity except for constructing, heating, cooling buildings. Food sector should be priority in talks before Copenhagen meeting, where next round of emissions cuts will be decided.

By Mark Hertsgaard

The Nation. 2009-04-20

See also

Loss of income, insurance undermine diet-related disease care

As obesity epidemic leads cases of diabetes, loss of income and health insurance pushes diabetics to cut back on health care, risking serious complications and higher emergency or hospital care costs, analysis shows. And: Maryland group targets churches, community groups, doctors' offices for message about prevention through diet, exercise and health screenings (click 'See also').

By Linda A. Johnson

The Associated Press; The Boston Globe 2009-04-13

See also

Soda lobbyist looks to block rules on school vending items

President of $110 billion-a-year beverage industry lobbies to block more rules on what schools can put in vending machines as Congress begins revision of Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act. And: Soda, sports drink intake linked to increased body weight, poor nutrition, displacement of more healthful beverages; added intake raises risk of obesity, diabetes - $79 billion spent annually for overweight and obesity alone (click 'See also').

By Philip Brasher

The Des Moines Register 2009-04-11

See also

Opinion: Food marketing a slow-motion tragedy for our children

Obama and Congress should, with urgency second only to oncoming regulation of tobacco, enact emergency federal rules to ban trash-food marketing that is consuming our children. Federal nutrition programs are feeble whisper against trash food marketing; 44 top food/beverage companies in 2006 spent $1.6 billion in marketing mostly soda, fast food, and cereals to youths. Voluntary marketing limits are the wink of wolves.

By Derrick Z. Jackson

Boston Globe 2009-04-11

Activists seek food/agriculture policy reform - beyond Obama garden

As Americans flock to farmers' markets and buy local at Wal-Mart, sustainable-food activists, who see cheap, processed, subsidized food as profiting agribusiness, causing (and deferring costs of) diet-related disease, ruined environment, seek fundamental change. Chef/gardener Alice Waters urges tripling of budget for school lunches (with costs shared by Department of Education - click 'See also'); author Michael Pollan wants diversified, regional food networks. But he worries about movement's lack of infrastructure.

By Andrew Martin

The New York Times 2009-03-21

See also

Opinion: Obama's fast start offers hope to sustainability advocates

Early words, actions of Obama administration offer hope of reforms in agriculture, food policy that lead to environmental sustainability, healthy diets. Among pending questions: commodities payments versus agri-environment programs, placement of ethanol in alternative energy, agriculture and WTO Doha talks.

By Thomas Dobbs

The Dakota Day 2009-03-06

In Mauritania, revival of force-feeding girls charged

After military takeover of Mauritania, girls as young as five again being force-fed for marriage, activist says. She decries backward steps that equate woman's size with space in husband's heart. Girls are taken to 'fattening farms,' where typical 'leblouh' diet for six-year-old includes 4.4 pounds millet, 2 cups of butter, 21 quarts camel's milk daily. And: Fat symbolizes wealth, social class in remote areas (click 'See also').

By Alex Duval Smith

The Observer (UK) 2009-03-01

See also

Diet, activity, body fat limits, curbs common cancer risk, study shows

Eating nutritious diet, keeping body fat under control and being physically active may prevent about a third of cancers in nation's population, big-picture study shows. Prevention seems to most affect rates of endometrial, esophageal, mouth, pharynx, larynx, and stomach cancers.

By Miranda Hitti

Web MD Health News 2009-02-26

Opinion: Splitting the check for fresh school lunches

ANP

Click 'See also' for youtube video.

New, fresh school lunch program should funded by Department of Education, USDA. It would bring long-term savings, benefits to society in areas of hunger, children's health and dietary habits, food safety, environmental preservation and energy conservation. And: Lobbyists outnumber scientists at recent Institute of Medicine school lunch meeting (click 'See also').

By Alice Waters

The New York Times 2009-02-19

See also

Fast-food eateries, strokes linked, but reasons unknown

The more fast food restaurants, the higher the relative risk of stroke, study shows. For every fast food restaurant in a neighborhood, the relative risk of stroke went up one percent, and researchers wonder: Is it the food, or an unhealthy neighborhood?

By Shantell Kirkendoll

University of Michigan 2009-02-20

Opinion: School lunch program gives agribusiness chokehold on children

Ties between feds and commodities industry, abetted by poor nutritional choices made by state and local food service officials, results in chicken nugget-pizza menus at school. With renewal of Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act, we must improve nutrition and quality of school food requirements; weaken school lunches-commodities markets link; and educate school officials, regulators and public. And: Primer on upcoming bill (click 'See also').

By Kathleen Rogers

San Francisco Chronicle 2009-01-30

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Warming will be worse than thought; coal, beef are two culprits

Warming will be faster, more damaging than previously thought, says scientist. Greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) increased far faster than expected between 2000-2007, mainly by burning of coal for electricity in India, China. And: 30 percent of human-generated global warming potential caused by foods, beverage production; about half of those come from meat; beef accounts for 30 percent of world's meat consumption, but contributes 78 percent of meat's GHG emissions (click 'See also').

BBC 2009-02-15

See also

Three books take on food industry

Penguin Books

From 'The World is Fat,' by Barry Popkin

In three new books, common culprit in obesity crisis is food industry - pushing processed foods that destroy environment and our bodies, putting profits before health. But solutions differ. Barry Popkin, in 'The World is Fat,' advocates multi-pronged attack including taxation, lifestyle choices and gastric bypass surgery. Mark Bittman, in 'Food Matters,' tells us to eat less meat, less junk food and switch to 'sane eating.' In 'Stuffed,' Hank Cardello says food companies should sneak nutrients into bestselling products.

By Fuchsia Dunlop

The Washington Post 2009-01-22

Past lead levels in D.C. tap water may risk children's health

Elevated lead levels in tap water from 2001-2003 could jeopardize health of about 42,000 Washington, D.C. children who then were younger than 2 or in utero, study shows. Parents outraged, Council wants probe to see whether public was misled during water crisis (click 'See also'). Blood lead levels and number of potentially affected children both considerably higher than initially reported by city, federal officials.

By Carol D. Leonnig

The Washington Post 2009-01-27

See also

Hospital meals in UK will go greener

To set public example, meat-free menus, more fresh produce, less bottled water and less dairy will be promoted in UK hospitals to cut global warming emissions. Without effective action now, millions will experience hunger, water shortages and coastal flooding as climate changes, report warns. And: Reducing meat, junk food in diet means healthier body and planet, says Mark Bittman in new book (click 'See also').

By Juliette Jowit

The Guardian (UK) 2009-01-26

See also

Good, affordable foods a priority, says USDA head

Obama administration will make 'very significant push' to increase U.S. intake of affordable but good quality foods, and will heed critics who link crop subsides, obesity, says Tom Vilsack, USDA head. Former Iowa governor had vowed at confirmation hearing to increase U.S. production, consumption of fruits, vegetables.

By Philip Brasher

The Des Moines Register 2009-01-22

Diet-related disease again affects national security

After obesity flunks 47,447 aspiring soldiers in four years, Army recruiter lobbies for formal diet, fitness plan. Obesity is biggest challenge for potential military enlistees. And: During World War II, aspiring servicemen flunked, but for undernourishment, a national emergency that prompted 1946 National School Lunch Act, which guaranteed hot lunch for every schoolchild (click 'See also').

By Susanne M. Schafer

The Associated Press; Army Times 2009-01-13

See also

Obesity overtakes overweight category in U.S.

More than 34 percent of Americans termed obese, compared to 32.7 percent who are overweight, statistics from 2005-'06 - latest available - show. Thirty-two percent of U.S. children overweight, 16 percent obese, 11 percent were extremely obese. And: Department of Defense says nearly 50,000 potential recruits have flunked Army's physical exam because they were overweight (click 'See also').

By Maggie Fox

Reuters 2009-01-09

See also

Analysis: Details crucial in healthful living campaign

Short on funds, New York governor turns call for change into anti-obesity measures: Soft drink tax, posting calorie counts in chain restaurants, adding markets to poor neighborhoods, banning junk food in schools. Professor says proposals take health care outside of medical sector and are way of cost-shifting that doesn't recognize obstacles - no sidewalks, time deprivation.

By Anemona Hartocollis

The New York Times 2009-01-11

Opinion: Cooperating for health of land, eaters, economy

Obama's secretaries of agriculture, health and human services share simple link: Health of America's eaters depends on health of food/agriculture system. The two must create science-based policies that build and protect healthy soil, make fruits and vegetables the easiest and most affordable choice, and promote local food production as community asset to strengthen economy.

By Angie Tagtow

The Des Moines Register 2008-12-18

Link found between high fat diet, biological clock

High fat diet in mice alters part of biological 'clock' that regulates metabolism, researchers learn. Findings may explain obesity and metabolic conditions including hormone imbalance, psychological and sleep disorders, some forms of cancer. Circadian rhythms usually follow 24-hour cycle and affected by light, external cues like meal timing (click 'See also').

By Jess Halliday

nutraingredients.com/Decision News Media 2009-01-05

See also

Preventing bad teeth, cascading health woes of poverty

Beyond joblessness or underemployment, bad teeth mark those without insurance-paid dentist visits. Loss of teeth makes eating fresh produce difficult; diet heavy in soft, processed foods exacerbates serious ills, like diabetes. Such preventive measures save money in health care. And: Obama predicts 'sobering' unemployment figures (click 'See also').

By Malcolm Gladwell

The New Yorker 2005-08-29

See also

School's proximity to fast food linked to obesity among students

Students at schools within walking distance of fast food outlets more likely to be overweight and eat fewer fruits and vegetables, study of 500,000 California adolescents shows. Eateries serve as hangout and linked to greatly increased consumption of soft drinks. And: Sodas containing high-fructose corn syrup may contribute to development of diabetes, particularly in children (click 'See also').

By Julie Steenhuysen

Reuters 2008-12-24

See also

Spiking blood-sugar levels linked to memory loss

Blood-sugar spikes linked to memory loss, new study shows, but peaks can be moderated by exercise. Researcher calls findings 'compelling,' and sees implications for the elderly, overweight children, and those at risk for Type 2 diabetes and/or heart disease in fast-paced, complex society. And: Spiking, falling blood sugar levels from high-carb diet could be risk factor for central vision loss with aging (click 'See also').

By Roni Caryn Rabin

The New York Times 2008-12-31

See also

Altering diet, other existing conditions key to public health

Prevention - currently less than five cents of every dollar spent on health - crucial to public health, say advocates (click 'See also'). Healthy communities created by planning across sectors, e.g., farm-to-school programs; supporting sustainable regional food systems; helping healthy food retailers succeed where fresh produce is limited, increasing funding to nutrition programs.

By Laura Troyer

The Food Times 2008-12-23

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Opinion: Soda tax, universally adapted, could make us healthier

Diabetes epidemic costs $218 billion each year -- $1,900 per household - and contributes to deaths of 200,000-plus Americans, so risky behavior includes extra-large sodas. New York's proposed 18 percent tax on soft drinks could help make us healthier, just as cigarette tax has lowered lung cancer rates. Nutrition specialist says cola industry will spend vast sums fighting proposed tax. And: How food industry discredits critics (click 'See also').

By Nicholas D. Kristof

The New York Times 2008-12-18

See also

Low-glycemic, plant-based diet best for diabetics

Diabetics eating low-glycemic diet - nuts, beans, lentils - have better glycemic control and reduce heart disease risk factors, than those on fiber-rich diet, study shows. Type 2 diabetics have much higher risk of cardiovascular disease. And: Though exercise, weight loss and low-fat, plant-based diet reduce risk of Type 2 diabetes by 58 percent, plan works best when community - parents, grandparents, caregivers - enables and models healthful behavior (click 'See also').

By Shari Roan

Los Angeles Times 2008-12-16

See also

Food system unspoken in Obama's USDA pick

Tom Vilsack's selection as Obama's USDA secretary may be 'agribusiness as usual,' since words 'food' or 'eaters' unspoken in news conference, says Michael Pollan, author. Food system responsible for one-third greenhouse gases, 'catastrophic' diet that causes chronic disease in half the U.S. population and drives up health care costs (click 'See also'). Food must be included in plan to address climate change, energy independence, health care.

By Renee Montagne

National Public Radio/Morning Edition 2008-12-18

See also

University links public health, agriculture on new site

New website offers access to information about public health, agriculture, and connects the two fields. Johns Hopkins University site, a project of its Center for a Livable Future (click 'See also') links communities, organizations, individuals. Site allows search of databases, vetted collection of reports, journal articles.

By Karla Cook

The Food Times 2008-12-14

See also

Opinion: Reframe, reform USDA with secretary of food

Obama needs secretary of food, not USDA - to address health care, climate change, energy independence. 'Department of Food' would give primacy to America's 300 million eaters, cut influence of industrial farm lobby, which inflicts unhealthy food on children through school lunches and exacerbates crisis of obesity, diabetes. And: Petition lists terrific reformist candidates (click 'See also').

By Nicholas D. Kristof

The New York Times 2008-12-11

See also

Health group cites false economy of value meals

Watchdog group rates the $1 junior bacon cheeseburger at Jack in the Box as "the most unhealthful" value item among all national fast food chains. The Cancer Project's survey, noting popularity of cheap foods in tough times, also cited Taco Bell's Cheesy Double Beef Burrito and McDonald's McDouble sandwich.

By Jerry Hirsch

Los Angeles Times 2008-12-09

Opinion: Tiny changes, big benefits in brainpower

Adding 1 billion points to global IQ is as simple as adding iodine to salt, and Canada leads way with Micronutrient Initiative, which also advocates adding vitamin A, iron, zinc and folic acid to diets. Simple technology improves lives at low cost and in short time, says World Bank.

By Nicholas D. Kristof

The New York Times 2008-12-04

Large study links fish-rich diet to cancer survival

Adding extra fish, omega-3-rich seafood to diet may raise prostate cancer survival by 38 percent; men who ate five servings of fish per week had 48 percent improved survival rate over those who ate one serving a week, study shows. And: Healthy diet should consist of one omega-3 to four omega-6 fatty acids, but American diet contains more than 10 times needed amount of omega-6 oils, mostly from processed foods, cooking oils (click 'See also').

By Stephen Daniells

nutraingredients.com 2008-11-24

See also

Underpinnings of food industry on legislative agenda

Legislative progress on environment, energy, health care on agenda with Henry Waxman, a keen negotiator, now at helm of powerful Committee on Energy and Commerce. But: Without reform on the way we grow, process and eat food in America, there will be no significant progress on these problems or on critical issue of national security, writes Michael Pollan in letter to new farmer-in-chief Barack Obama (click 'See also').

By Julie Rovner

National Public Radio/All Things Considered 2008-11-21

See also

Exploring links between fast-food advertising, childhood obesity

Banning fast food ads from children's TV could reduce number of overweight children by 14 to 18 percent, according to economists who studied 1997 data (click 'See also'). In intervening years, McDonald's, Burger King re-worked ads to include apple sticks, low-fat milk. Eliminating tax deductions for those ads would curb childhood obesity by 5 to 7 percent, study showed.

Roni Caryn Rabin

New York Times 2008-11-20

See also

Going with the grains - and Hippocrates

Beyond statins, common sense and two studies indicate that eating whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and nuts cut readings for CRP, which is linked to risk of heart attack, stroke. Needed is total proof that diet- and exercise-reduced CRP levels reduce cardiovascular emergencies. And: Small, consistent increase in dietary fiber helps reduce heart disease risk and controls diabetes, and can make large difference to public health (click See also').

By Stephen Smith

The Boston Globe 2008-11-17

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Opinion: Melamine links industrial waste to U.S. food production

Melamine has pervaded U.S. food system. It's added to fertilizer and accumulates in the farm fields. Last year, millions ate chicken that had been fed tainted gluten from China; Tyson Foods butchered hogs that had eaten tainted feed too. Meat was not recalled. China melamine scandal is opportunity for U.S. to pass fertilizer standards and to test for chemical.

By James E. McWilliams

The New York Times 2008-11-17

Lowering stress, heart disease risk with parks, gardens

More neighborhood green space reduces risk of heart disease, greatly narrows health gaps and death rates between rich, poor, UK researchers learn. Governments should promote and invest in green areas, which provide opportunities for stress reduction and physical activity. And: Plunging hands into the dirt therapeutic for gardeners (click 'See also').

By Michael Kahn

Reuters 2008-11-07

See also

As deadline looms, EPA asked to rethink rule on water toxin

With rocket fuel component in drinking water of 35 states and its documented toxicity to humans, scientists argue that EPA decision not to regulate perchlorate needs 'compelling scientific basis.' Rule was based on industry-funded computer model; critics say CDC studies ignored. Opinion: Congress should require EPA to explain disregard of toxin that reduces thyroid function, creates risk of lifelong lower IQ for babies (click 'See also').

By Juliet Eilperin

The Washington Post 2008-11-14

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Childhood obesity may forecast prematurely disabled workforce

Arteries of obese children show harbinger of heart disease, study shows. Findings suggest potential for significant fraction of workforce disabled in their 30s, 40s, says cardiology expert. In U.S., about one third of children, teens overweight or obese, CDC says. And: In Huntington, W.Va., which leads nation in obesity, diabetes, heart disease and teeth loss, adults in their 30s suffering heart attacks, requiring open-heart surgery (click 'See also').

By Thomas H. Maugh II

Los Angeles Times 2008-11-12

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Childhood food allergies up; schools unevenly prepared

Childhood food allergies, and severity, increasing. Researchers blame varied diet that exposes children to fish, peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs and soy; increasing rates of childhood obesity; increased consumption of antacids, vitamins; and possibly, underdeveloped immune systems as reaction to a too-clean environment. And: 'Action plans' for food-allergic students used inconsistently in schools (click 'See also').

By Steven Reinberg

HealthDay News; U.S. News & World Report 2008-11-10

See also

High fat, high-sugar diet raises diabetes risk

Eating energy-dense diet increases risk of developing type 2 diabetes, 12-year study shows. Energy-dense foods are those high in fat, sugars and low in fiber: fast foods, processed foods and fatty foods (click 'See also'). Best substitutes: vegetables, fruits, beans, whole grains.

By Sue Mueller

Food Consumer 2008-11-02

See also

Obesity, lack of exercise cause soaring diabetes rates

New diabetes case rates soar nearly 90 percent over last 10 years, mostly from obesity, sedentary ways. And: In 2007, diabetes cost economy $174 billion for medical care, chronic complications (click 'See also'). Indirect costs of $58 billion came from absenteeism, reduced productivity, disease-related disability, and early death.

By Will Dunham

Reuters 2008-10-30

See also

Diet turns middle-aged problem youthful

Kidney stones a growing problem in children. Main causes are dietary - not drinking enough water, eating too much salt - and sometimes relate to obesity. Physicians cite salty chips, French fries, sports drinks and processed items - sandwich meats, canned soups, packaged meals, sodas. And: As makers of children's cereals cut sugar, they add salt, report says (click 'See also').

By Laurie Tarkan

The New York Times 2008-10-27

See also

Short-circuiting the obesity-prone gene

Those with malfunctioning food-pleasure gene more likely to overeat, study shows. Health expert says those with weakened 'reward strategy' can circumvent obesity by choosing diet rich in whole grains, legumes, beans, fruits and vegetables coupled with moderate level of exercise.

By Jimmy Downs

Food Consumer 2008-10-18

Obesity likely cause of blood pressure rise in U.S.

Obesity, overweight epidemic likely cause of increased rates of high blood pressure, researchers say. Hypertension is major risk factor for heart disease, stroke. To prevent high blood pressure, develop and maintain healthy lifestyle, and control weight through exercise and health eating behaviors, study authors say.

By Steven Reinberg

HealthDay; The Washington Post 2008-10-13

Better school lunch nutrition lifts math scores

Adding whole grains, fruits and vegetables to elementary school lunches raised academic performance of students over two years and lowered their weight and blood pressure, cardiologist reports. Healthier Options for Public Schoolchildren program (click 'See also') also promotes good nutrition through edible school gardens, assemblies, class activities and with adults as role models.

By Adam Voiland

U.S. News & World Report 2008-10-07

See also

Overeating triggers diet-related disease pathway in brain

Persistent overeating triggers metabolic response which, once flipped 'on,' can promote overeating, creating vicious cycle, researchers learn in mouse study. Earlier research had shown that eating too much triggered inflammatory responses in muscles, liver, changes that launch development of type 2 diabetes. Now researchers see inflammation may promote obesity as well.

By Amanda Gardner

The Washington Post 2008-10-02

Urban farmer wins 'genius grant' for push to make fresh food affordable

MacArthur Foundation/youtube

Will Allen uses aquaculture and vermiculture, and heats greenhouses with composting.

Urban farmer in Milwaukee wins $500,000 MacArthur 'genius grant' (click 'See also) for developing farming methods and educational programs designed to provide healthy food to everyone. His nonprofit, Growing Power (www.growingpower.org), just expanded its program of selling bags of fruit and vegetables for $14 -- a week's worth for a family of four.

By Lee Bergquist

Journal Sentinel (Milwaukee, WI) 2008-09-22

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Return to kitchen replaces deprivation diet culture

New 'positive eating' replaces deprivation diets, returns participants to pleasures of seasonal foods, meals with family and friends, the kitchen and scratch cooking. People of normal weight spend more time on food shopping, cooking and cleanup than others, study shows. And: New cooks drive increase in food website traffic, sales of cookbooks, food magazines, inexpensive cookware and basic foods (click 'See also').

By Tara Parker-Pope

The New York Times 2008-09-17

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Limit can-lining chemical exposure, scientists say

Scientists urge 'aggressive action' to limit human exposure to can-lining chemical after study notes that higher levels of bisphenol A in body correspond with higher rates of heart disease, diabetes and liver abnormalities. Skeptic notes that drinking lots of high-sugar canned drinks raises risk of diet-related disease and exposure to BPA. And: Chemical, also found in hard plastic water and baby bottles, inhibits brain links (click 'See also').

By Sarah Boseley

The Guardian (UK) 2008-09-16

See also

Obesity doubles risk of disabling knee arthritis

Obesity doubles lifetime risk of developing knee osteoarthritis, physician says. In this painful disease, cartilage breaks down and deteriorates. And: Being 10 pounds overweight increases the force on the knee by 30 to 60 pounds with each step; weight loss decreases incidence of disease and some studies show substantially reduced reports of pain (click 'See also').

By Thomas Goldsmith

The News & Observer (Raleigh, NC) 2008-09-12

Some obese teens face life-threatening liver disease

Obesity pushing rates of liver disease, transplant needs in some teens. Many experts predict fatty liver disease will become top cause of liver transplants by 2020.'There aren't enough livers to go around,' says physician. Successful patients are those whose families have increased exercise, changed diet to one based on whole grains, fruits, vegetables.

By Linda A. Johnson

The Associated Press; Time magazine 2008-09-08

Prion experts study whether fatal disease of elk, deer can jump to humans

CDC

4004 chart shows chronic wasting disease among free-ranging deer and elk by county.

When prions can jump species barriers, a new kind of prion is produced, researchers learn. Prion proteins cause Creutzfeld-Jakob disease and mad cow disease, and have infected 208 people, mostly in UK. Scientists now study whether prion-induced chronic wasting disease (CWD) in elk and deer could jump to humans; disease has long dormant period. And: CDC, in 2004, said risk of CWD to humans was low (click 'See also').

By Amber Dance

Nature News 2008-09-04

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Linking vitamin deficiency to learning problems, Alzheimer's

Karla Cook/thefoodtimes

Swiss chard is a good source of folate and a very good source of vitamin B6.

Vitamin B deficiencies linked to learning problems, dramatically higher homocysteine levels in mouse study, researchers say. Elevated homocysteine levels in adults raise risk for Alzheimer's disease, stroke and atherosclerosis. And: Vitamin B-rich foods: leafy green vegetables, beans, peas, whole grains, fish, seafood, poultry and meats, eggs and milk, yogurt and cheese (click 'See also').

By Shane Starling

nutraingredients.com 2008-09-04

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Balancing Ramadan fasts with prescribed consumption

For diabetics, Ramadan fasting means timing medicine and monitoring blood sugar levels. Religion's overarching belief is that Muslims should not harm their bodies, even for spiritual practices. And: Going without food or drink (or caffeine) between dawn and dusk for a lunar month sometimes leads to weight gain from overeating at nightly or early morning meals (click 'See also').

By Robert Mitchum

Chicago Tribune 2008-08-31

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Overweight Alabama state workers face higher insurance

Overweight, obese who work for state of Alabama given a year to lose weight or face higher health insurance costs. And: Because medical costs are higher for the obese and premiums don't depend on weight, lighter people in same pool pay for food/exercise decisions of obese, says USDA (click 'See also').

By Nancy Yamada

WBIR 2008-08-23

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Eating beans reduces risk of diabetes, study shows

Diet rich in legumes - peanuts, soybeans and other beans - reduces risk of type 2 diabetes by nearly 40 percent, study indicates. High intake of soybeans linked to 47 percent risk reduction. Study used food-frequency questionnaires to chart health of 64,227 middle-aged Chinese women for about 4.6 years.

By Stephen Daniells

Food Navigator 2008-01-08

Opinion: Our right to know nutrition information

Obesity is a public health disaster and is threatening our children. About half of Americans' food budget is spent at restaurants. If we can force oil companies to tell us octane level of fuel for our cars, surely we can demand that fast-food and restaurant chains tell us what we're putting into our bodies.

By Harold Goldstein and Eric Schlosser

Los Angeles Times 2008-08-05

Potato chip makers agree to reduce carcinogen in products

Potato chip producers agree to reduce carcinogen - acrylamide - in their chips over three years and pay penalties to settle California lawsuit. Accord means a 20 percent cut for Frito-Lay products, 87 percent cut for Kettle Chips, and warning label on Cape Cod Robust Russets. And: FDA tells home cooks to reduce chemical by not over-browning potatoes (click 'See also').

By Bob Egelko

San Francisco Chronicle 2008-08-02

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Projecting cost of near-universal obesity expected in U.S. by 2030

Obesity, already public health crisis, likely to cost $956.9 billion by 2030 if epidemic grows at current rate, researchers suggest. More than 86 percent of population projected to be overweight or obese by then, including 96 percent of black women and 91 percent of Mexican-American men. Analysis shows that, over time, heavy Americans become heavier.

By Natalie Wood-Wright

Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health 2008-07-28

Fructose linked to fast fat production in humans

Fat build-up, triglyceride surge greater from fructose consumption than other sugars, small study reports. Researchers also note that fat was created from fructose by liver within four hours of consumption, which means that the next meal's fat is more likely to be stored. Fat synthesis may be revved up in overweight, obese patients.

By Stephen Daniells

nutraingredients.com 2008-07-25

Increasing drug prescriptions for children's diet-related diseases

Though childhood obesity best treated by diet and exercise, data suggest that several hundred thousand children now taking medicines to treat its eventual complications, with greatest increase in Type 2 diabetes drugs. Many patients live in neighborhoods without grocery stores and attend schools that have no physical education programs. And: Series on childhood obesity (click 'See also').

By Stephanie Saul

The New York Times 2008-07-26

See also

Diet, exercise first presciption for pre-diabetes

Use diet, physical activity to treat pre-diabetes, endocrinologists say in issuing guidelines for diagnosing metabolic syndrome. Group calls for training primary-care doctors in helping patients with lifestyle changes. 'Most doctors don't know how to deal with this,' says research director. And: More children taking drugs related to childhood obesity (click 'See also').

By Mary Brophy Marcus

USA Today 2008-07-22

See also

Parents most worried about child obesity, poll shows

Obesity now tops list of parent concerns, study shows. Drug abuse, smoking, bullying are runners-up; environmental toxins and lack of opportunity for physical activity finish off the top 10 list. Researchers saw priorities change depending on race, income or whether children were living at home, indicating no universal approach to problems, says physician. And: Slide show of obesity trends across the U.S. (click 'See also').

By Krista Hopson

University of Michigan 2008-07-14

See also

Writing away obesity, related illness, with food diary

In study, those who kept food diary lost twice as much weight as those who didn't. Other aids: low-fat diet high in produce, weekly support sessions, moderate exercise. Losing nine pounds each would vastly decrease U.S. rates of hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease and stroke, says researcher. And: At senate hearing, childhood obesity called 'medical emergency' (click 'See also').

The Center for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente 2008-07-08

See also

Linking produce availability to hypertension risk

Better access to healthful foods, walkable streets and recreational areas and sense of community reduces residents' risk of high blood pressure, study shows. Links diminished when researchers factored in the 2,612 participants' race and ethnicity.

Reuters 2008-07-15

Obesity epidemic worsens nationwide

CDC

Obesity rates rise to one in four in 2007 and above 30 percent in Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee, CDC says. And: U.S. spends $2 trillion annually on health care; per capita cost of many effective community-based disease prevention programs is less than $10 (click 'See also') and could save more than $16 billion in five years.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2008-07-18

See also

Preventing premature death with good diet

UK plans healthful food promotion after report links poor diet with premature death of 70,000 people each year. Program, which will urge fruit and vegetable consumption and reduced intake of saturated fat, sugar and salt, will begin in hospitals and prisons, then radiate outward. For report, click 'See also.'

By Andrew Sparrow

The Guardian (UK) 2008-07-07

See also

Treating obesity beyond mere food choices

American Heart Association advocates population-based anti-obesity policy. Plan would address restaurant portion sizes, fast-food outlet placement and plethora of unhealthful food choices, plus infrastructure: sidewalks, playgrounds, nearby jobs, schools and public transportation.

HealthDay News; U.S. News & World Report 2008-06-30

Ordering farms' halt to use of human antibiotic

FDA orders farmers to stop dosing chickens, cows, pigs and eggs with drug used to treat skin infections, stomach infections and pneumonia in humans. Agency says that overuse will render cephalosporins ineffective in treating human disease.

Bloomberg News; Newsday 2008-07-03

Study links prenatal diet to child's longterm health

Junk food diet during pregnancy and breastfeeding increases child's risk of diet-related disease, study on rats indicates. Offspring had raised levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose and insulin, plus harbinger of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. And: In 1986, Barker hypothesis linked adult heart disease to prenatal and early postnatal nutrition (click 'See also').

By Sarah Boseley

The Guardian (UK) 2008-07-01

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Bill would create food allergy guidelines for schools

Group pushes legislation that would create uniform food allergy guidelines for schools. Only Connecticut, New York, Rhode Island and Tennessee have statewide allergy plans. About two million school-age children have food allergies; eight foods account for 90 percent of all allergic reactions--peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, soy and wheat.

By Kelley Schoonover

The Associated Press; Greenwich Time (CT) 2008-06-07

Diet-related aids for diabetics

Most important predictor of a heart attack or death for diabetics is a severe hypoglycemic event (blackout or consciousness change) in the previous three months, preliminary analysis of new study finds. Biggest help: lowering cholesterol levels, controlling high blood pressure.

By Thomas H. Maugh II

Los Angeles Times 2008-06-09

Opinion: Leading the fight against childhood obesity

In battling childhood obesity, Steven K. Galson, acting Surgeon General, has made it his mission to gather disparate efforts of parents, schools, and local governments into a unified national campaign. Bush administration should do more to organize those activities and boost their profile.

The editors

The Washington Post 2008-05-24

Opinion: That which must not be mentioned

Obesity, beyond health risks including diabetes, joint pain, congestive heart failure, strokes, back pain, sleep apnea and depression, is also about root causes and society's denial. As a physician, let me 'not fail to see what is visible.' If obesity is not going to be confronted honestly in a medical setting, where will that difficult conversation take place?

By Jeremy Brown

The Washington Post 2008-05-25

Childhood obesity plateaus, but can it be reversed?

Awareness, targeted actions could be creating plateau in rates of childhood obesity, but researchers can't be sure. Real question is whether 25-year obesity trend can be reversed, says researcher. 'The rates of obesity in children are so hugely high that without any further increases, the impact of this epidemic will be felt with increasing severity for many years to come.'

By Tara Parker-Pope

The New York Times 2008-05-27

Urban food deserts, culture fuel childhood obesity

In poor urban neighborhoods, childhood obesity fueled by takeout joints serving fatty calories through bulletproof glass pass-throughs, absence of greengrocers, and culinary culture rich in fried foods and carbohydrates. One study showed that most students skipped breakfast, drank four sodas a day, ate at a corner store or had takeout twice a day, had a TV in their bedroom and did not have a grocery store in their neighborhood.

By Steve Hendrix and Hamil R. Harris

The Washington Post 2008-05-20

Processed food firms retool approach to children

Motivated by bad publicity, tougher regulation and costly lawsuits, food companies reduce child-targeted ads for their packaged and processed products and reduce serving sizes for products. Milk sales doubled after McDonald's repackaged milk into brightly decorated plastic jugs. Many schools remain prime settings for introducing their products to children.

By Susan Levine and Lori Aratani

The Washington Post 2008-05-22

Undermining better lunch efforts

Schools' newly healthful meals thwarted by parents who send oversized bags of chips in lunch boxes, fight bans on cupcakes and object to measuring students' body mass index. And schools undercut their efforts by selling fries, doughnuts and other 'a la carte' items and allowing vending machines. For series, Young Lives at Risk: Our Overweight Children, click 'See also.'

By Lori Aratani

The Washington Post 2008-05-21

See also

Absence of hunger cues

In suburbia, obesity spreads to sedentary children of busy parents who resort to fast food at odd hours, in the car. Counties allocate scant resources to prevention or weight-loss programs; fitness directors see parents dropping children off but know that at home, nothing's changing in the refrigerator. For complete series, Young Lives at Risk: Our Overweight Children, click 'See also.'

By Annie Gowen

The Washington Post 2008-05-20

See also

No fat-fighting leadership, critics say

As European countries mount focused campaigns against childhood obesity, American efforts founder at the top. The 2009 budget ends a $75 million program to help schools and communities expand physical-education offerings; USDA pushes a low-fat diet, but supports Pizza Hut's stuffed crust pizza. Foundations, state and local governments and local groups attempt to provide leadership.

By Susan Levine and Lori Aratani

The Washington Post 2008-05-19

See also

Candidates on childhood obesity

As part of a five-day series on childhood obesity in The Washington Post (click 'See also'), the presidential candidates were asked how they would address the problem. Excerpts: *Hillary Clinton: Ban junk food in schools, install universal school breakfast plan, double summer feeding program, implement a healthy schools program that funds replacing all unhealthy food with healthy food in schools by 2012, increase funding for physical education, voluntary guidelines for food industry. *Barack Obama: Coordinate and collaborate across departments, ensure adequate resources, expand and accelerate research on prevention and treatment, support nutrition and physical activity grant programs, support public health and advocacy groups, finalize voluntary food and beverage advertising guidelines and if they're not effective, make them mandatory. *John McCain: Teach children and their parents about child health, healthier meals at home and exercise as a family activity, nutrition education and more physical education at school, diet and fitness guidance by health-care providers, healthy food options for schools, adequate funding for physical education, prevention and maintenance as part of basic health care plans, appropriate and informative food labeling, and voluntary standards for food makers.

The Washington Post 2008-05-17

See also

Sunshine vitamin and cancer

Deficiency of vitamin D, the sunshine vitamin, linked to progression of breast cancer, two separate studies find. Vitamin is found in mackerel, salmon, sardines and in foods that have been fortified - milk, orange juice and some cereals, for example (click 'See also'). Earlier studies have suggested that vitamin D may prevent prostate and colon cancer.

By Thomas H. Maugh II

Los Angeles Times 2008-05-16

Economy down, weights up

Food crisis will increase rates of diet-related disease because high-fat, highly sweetened food products are federally subsidized and readily available. Poor women are 50 percent more likely to be obese. Poor, hungry people aren't thinking about their health, 'just filling their stomachs...getting through the day,' says researcher.

By Alfred Lubrano

The Philadelphia Inquirer 2008-05-06

Apples scarce for many in Big Apple

Up to three million New Yorkers live in communities with high rates of diet-related disease and a dearth of supermarkets (click 'See also' for study). Many residents spend food budget at pharmacies, which sell processed foods and sodas, then medicines for diet-related ills. City could support another 100 grocers; planning director calls situation a health crisis.

By David Gonzalez

The New York Times 2008-05-05

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Risky neighborhoods

Obesity, diabetes higher in neighborhoods where fast-food restaurants, convenience stores greatly outnumber grocery stores and produce vendors, California study finds. Weight isn't just a personal choice, says health expert - we are affected by our environment. Restaurants spokesperson disagrees: 'Individuals control what, where and when they eat.' Click 'See also' for story on similar stores clustered around lower-income schools.

By Mary Engel

Los Angeles Times 2008-04-29

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Diabetic motherhood

In six-year span, diabetes increased fivefold among 13- to 19-year-olds giving birth and doubled among 20- to 39-year-olds giving birth, researchers found. Diet-related disease adds risk to pregnancy, and children of women who have diabetes or are overweight or obese during pregnancy are more likely to be obese, overweight or have diabetes in the future.

By Julie Steenhuysen

Reuters 2008-04-28

Obesity and early death

Researchers suspect smoking, obesity and high blood pressure in decline in life expectancy of of women in some rural and low-income areas - Deep South, Appalachia, lower Midwest, one county in Maine. Aggressive public health campaigns would be obvious strategy, say scientists.

By David Brown

The Washington Post 2008-04-22

Waist away

Belly fat is potent predictor of dementia associated with Alzheimer's, researchers learn, but skeptics say the two might have same cause. Fat around organs is most harmful, because it oozes noxious chemicals, stoking inflammation and constricting blood vessels, but it's also easiest to lose through diet and exercise.

By Rob Stein

The Washington Post 2008-03-27

Lightness of being

After study a decade ago showed link of obesity to higher levels of religious participation, churches strengthened commitment to ministry beyond spirit, to body. But after follow-up study in 2006, researcher says that church is contributing to public health problem by condoning high-fat foods at fellowship. Faith-based weight-loss programs spring up: Light Weigh, Freedom Weight Loss Program, and First Place.

By Colette M. Jenkins

Akron Beacon-Journal (OH) 2008-03-11

Halt to treatment

Increased number of deaths in high-risk diabetes patients halts portion of 10,251-person study that was using bold mix of diet, exercise and drugs to drive blood sugar levels down. Twenty-one million Americans are diabetic, and the obesity epidemic is increasing the numbers.

By Rob Stein

The Washington Post 2008-02-07

Diet soda risk

In surprise, researchers learn that diet soda drinkers are at 34 percent higher risk of developing metabolic syndrome, which can be a precursor to diabetes and heart disease. Their study had focused on increased risks of Western diet - refined grains, fried foods and red meat. Scientist wonders whether it's a chemical in the soda or the behavior of diet soda drinkers.

By Nicholas Bakalar

The New York Times 2008-02-05

Claiming the future

Obesity-related diabetes epidemic now costs $174 billion annually through direct medical care, lost productivity, rising health-care premiums and co-payments, study shows. One million cases are diagnosed each year; trade group predicts that diet-related disease will handicap state, local economies, taking funds meant for education to care for patients instead.

By Liz Szabo

USA Today 2008-01-24

See also

Chips around the block

With increasing obesity as backdrop, researchers learn that lower-income schools have more convenience stores and fast-food outlets within walking distance than other schools. In report, scheduled for publication in June, researchers suggest that food environment surrounding schools, as well as school meals and snacks, must be considered.

By Shannon N. Zenk and Lisa M. Powell

Health and Place; University of Illinois at Chicago; Robert Wood Johnson Foundation 2008-01-24

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Don't eat that

Mercury levels in Manhattan tuna sushi samples so high that FDA could remove it from the market, testing for The New York Times reveals. Eating six pieces a week would exceed EPA's recommended safe levels of consumption, and experts believe that analysis elsewhere would yield similar results. Mercury enters the food chain as an industrial pollutant.

By Marian Burros

The New York Times 2008-01-23

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Color-coded

Newly discovered old-fashioned corn variety could prevent vitamin A-deficiency blindness in Africa and Latin America. Researcher finds yellow variety brimming with needed nutrient. Challenge, however, will be cultural. At-risk population likes white corn; yellow signifies food aid, and particular taste and texture.

By Dan Charles

National Public Radio 2008-01-20

See also

GMO life lengthener?

Resveratrol, linked to decreased heart disease, drop in blood sugar for diabetics, and, in study, increased lifespan in rodents, comes from grapes and wine. Now, Chinese scientists have created a genetically manipulated supergrape with six times the quantity of this active compound, from which they plan to make wine.

New Scientist 2008-01-07

See also

Eating plants

Compounds in red wine, fruits and vegetables can reduce effects of fat-laden foods in bloodstream, researchers learn in small study. Foods high in polyphenol include artichokes, parsley, Brussels sprouts, strawberries, lychees, and grapes, but apples are a good source as well.

Science Daily 2008-01-02

See also

Sugar overload

Excess consumption of sugar and high-fructose corn syrup, pervasive in processed and packaged foods, distracts the liver from maintaining proper testosterone and estrogen levels, Canadian study shows. An excess of these hormones can lead to acne, excessive hair growth, infertility and certain cancers of the reproductive tract.

By Rallie McAllister, M.D.

Green Valley News and Sun (AZ) 2007-12-27

Friend or foe?

After years of planning, Southern California adds fluoride to the water, and conspiracy theorists gather. Is the tooth-protection chemical - a byproduct of fertilizer and a component of bombs and poison - a public health advance or an attempt to medicate by force?

By Mike Anton

Los Angeles Times 2007-12-22

New formula

Largest four microwave popcorn producers remove diacetyl, a flavoring chemical linked to lung ailment, from their products after Missouri workers win verdicts and settlements over the last three years. Companies say that new formulation may take several months to reach shelves.

By Brad Belote

The Associated Press 2007-12-17

Opinion: Unsustainable, defined

The efficiency of factory farming may be nearing its limits. Two sacrifices of biological resilience are MRSA, a superbug that kills people, now found in concentrated animal feeding operations and in pig farmers; and the fatal epidemic among honeybees, pollinators of nuts, fruits and vegetables. What if researchers find that one cost of cheap meat is an epidemic of drug-resistant infection among young people?

By Michael Pollan

The New York Times 2007-12-16

Seeing clearly

Eating diet heavy with white bread, rice, potatoes, pasta, and foods containing sugars and corn syrups (all of which cause blood sugar spikes and tumbles), may be factor in early eye deterioration as well as vision problems associated with Type 2 diabetes, researchers say.

Science Daily 2007-12-01

Cutting cancer risk

After review of 7,000 cancer studies, experts compile tips for prevention: Stay lean, be physically active, avoid refined foods and sugary drinks, eat mostly plants, limit intake of red meat and processed meats, limit alcoholic drinks, limit salt, don't eat moldy grains or beans, and aim for a balanced diet without supplements.

By Roxanne Nelson

Medscape Medical News 2007-10-31

In the sweet

The rhetoric is anything but sweet in the sugar-vs-faux debate, with suspicions about the safety of the unnatural product arising shortly after the creation of saccharin more than 100 years ago. But we're conflicted. We want something sweet, but we're also looking to lose a little weight.

By Emily Sohn

Los Angeles Times 2007-11-19

Lurking sodium

Public health specialists pressure government for help in forcing processed food makers to cut sodium, a prime culprit in high blood pressure, stroke and heart attacks. In the meantime, we can avoid hidden salt by cooking from scratch.

By Lauran Neergaard

The Associated Press 2007-11-20

Sweet need

In a study that demonstrates the addictive potential of sweets and might help explain the obesity epidemic, researchers learn that for 40 of 43 rats, sweetened water wins out over cocaine, and even a majority of drug-addicted rodents pick sweets over drug.

By Denise Gellene

Los Angeles Times 2007-11-09

Studying fat

In two studies examining obesity, one links condition to diabetes and heart disease, but says that fat protects against other ills. The other shows that obesity causes disability in the elderly - they can't walk a quarter-mile, climb 10 steps, bend over or lift 10 pounds.

By Rob Stein

Washington Post 2007-11-06

Cutting the fat

At a scientific conference on obesity, group's compassionate, passionate founder skips the rich sauces and pooh-poohs exercise as fat cure, saying that in times of plenty, the only proven prevention is calorie restriction.

By Emily Nunn

Chicago Tribune 2007-10-28

Halloween high?

Experts question whether the legendary "sugar high," bane of parents at Halloween, really exists. The body's natural glucose control mechanisms minimize the effect in healthy children who eat well, but parents are the ultimate judges.

By Karen Ravn

Los Angeles Times 2007-10-29

Alcohol and sweets

A study found that women with a family history of alcoholism prefer higher levels of sweetness and crave more sweets. Those who smoked, though, had reduced sensitivity to sweets.

Leslie Stein

Monell Chemical Senses Center 0000-00-00

Ig Nobel

Brian Wansink's bottomless bowl of soup wins tongue-in-cheek Ig Nobel for nutrition; Cornell professor's invention was part of research surrounding obesity epidemic, including unconscious eating and how we judge satiety.

By Mark Pratt

The Associated Press 2007-10-05

See also

Food gone bad

Research shows mixing high-caffeine Red Bull, vodka and acetaminophen can hasten damage to the liver, but caffeine isn't the only culprit; even bananas are less than benign with diuretics.

By Deborah Kotz

U.S. News & World Report 2007-09-26

Opinion: Food fear

Addressing every ingredient or additive fear in this writer's pantry or refrigerator would require him dedicating his life to organic chemistry, so he's decided to have another glass of chardonnay and turn his attention away from the nutrition label.

By Eduardo Porter

The New York Times 2007-09-25

Sensible feasts?

Buoyed by Arab custom of big family meals, iftar celebrations have become lavish celebrations of sugary snacks, with waistlines and health problems following, says French physician in new diet book, "Chrono-nutrition - Ramadan special."

By Kerstin Gehmlich

Reuters 2007-09-14

Changing tastes:

Crete, once home to ultra-healthful Mediterranean diet and religion-based fasting, is evolving to suit modern tastes, adding air-conditioned supermarket with apples from Chile - and a hospital that includes a wing for cardiac care, once a rarity on the island.

By Joseph Shapiro

National Public Radio 2007-09-08

Cause and effect:

In 2005 paper, scientists link increased consumption of fast food and sweetened sodas to obesity, which promotes insulin resistance, which facilitates further weight gain.

By Elvira Isganaitis and Robert H. Lustig

Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology (American Heart Association) 2005-09-15

Weights increasing:

Obesity rates climb in 31 states, with no state showing decline in 2006; Mississippi, West Virginia and Alabama showed largest gains, and more children in Washington, D.C., are obese than anywhere else, according to CDC data analysis.

By Kevin Freking

The Associated Press; The Seattle Times 2007-08-26

See also

Sticky situation:

Bane and benefit both, blackberries cover the Oregon landscape with a thorny thicket but are high in antioxidants, show promise in tumor reduction, are a high cash crop, a primary food source for honeybees and other pollinators - and they're tasty as well.

By Joe Mosley

The Register-Guard (OR) 2007-08-11

The color purple:

Grapes, radishes, purple corn, purple carrots, chokeberries, cranberries, carrots and elderberries contain compounds that, when slightly modified, help slow progress of certain cancers of gastrointestinal tract, Ohio State University shows.

By Joi Preciphs

Bloomberg 2007-08-19

Call for change:

In groundbreaking presidential report, cancer panel calls down governmental polices that have made fruits and vegetables more expensive and less available, have limited physical education in schools and created an environment that discourages physical activity; food industry with its unhealthy food sales implicated as well.

MSNBC; Reuters 2007-08-16

See also

Deer problem:

Program that last year brought 35,000 pounds of hunter-donated venison to low-income clients of southern Wisconsin food pantry endangered by budget cuts; testing the deer for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) reduced by 60 percent; experts predict explosion in deer population.

By Christina Beam

Reedsburg Times Press (WI) 0000-00-00

No, thank you

CARE turns down $45 million in food aid from U.S., citing practice of selling tons of often heavily subsidized American farm products in African countries that compete with the crops of local farmers; other charities disagree.

By Celia W. Dugger

The New York Times (may require subscription)

Cooking for diabetics:

A few new cookbooks for those with diet-related disease have words of wisdom for all of us: Adapt everyday cooking to healthy meals that can be prepared quickly, practice portion control, shop carefully and read food labels.

By Kathie Smith

Toledo Blade 2007-08-14

Fast-food kids?

With growing rates of obesity in mind, FTC issues 44 subpoenas to food and beverage companies to learn how they advertise their wares to children; similar studies undertaken in the past with alcohol and tobacco companies.

By Mary Jane Credeur and Chris Burritt

bloomberg.com 2007-08-11

See also

A meal for Tut:

Kamut, a heirloom wheat with a sweet, nutty flavor and high in nutritional qualities, once the darling of the Birkenstock crowd, has captured Italy carbohydrate-wise, and Saskatchewan, as well as Montana and Alberta, are profiting.

By Beppi Crosariol

The Globe and Mail (Canada)

Food/Farm bill:

It's a $70 billion annual bill, and before, only agribusiness cared, but a tsunami of activists now believes that its subsidies for corn and soy encourage diet-related disease and climate change; instead, they advocate money for sustainable and organic food production, agricultural conservation and for a priority on fresh, local fruits and vegetables.

By Carol Ness

San Francisco Chronicle

OPINION

Diet rich in high-fat, low-nutrient junk food and meals made outside the home, plus parents' extra hours of work are combining to shorten and widen our children in comparison to others in developed countries around the world, study suggests.

By Paul Krugman

The New York Times (may require subscription)

Allergen no more?

Peanuts, long feared for chance of toxic reaction, might be tamed; researchers learn that allergic mice are missing interleukin-12 molecule; study shows that raw milk, too, could play role in keeping allergies at bay.

United Press International