According to a recent study, living within 300 meters (~984 feet) of a fast-food restaurant is associated with up to a 16% increased risk for type 2 diabetes. PLOS Medicine, April 2022

While specific causes of early onset colorectal cancer remain unclear, the current research suggests that a diet characterized by a high intake of red and processed meat, refined grains, and sugar can alter gut microbial composition, which can lead to chronic inflammation in the digestive tract and may result in a greater risk for colorectal…

Preeclampsia is marked by a sudden increase in blood pressure, protein in the urine, or other problems during pregnancy, which can cause serious health problems for mothers and babies if left untreated. In a study that included over 8,500 expectant mothers, researchers identified an association between greater adherence to the Mediterranean diet and up to…

Following an analysis of data from three studies that included nearly 36,000 health professionals, researchers report that, irrespective of genetic risk, a lower quality diet is associated with a 30% increased risk of type 2 diabetes. PLOS Medicine, April 2022

Using data from the Nurses’ Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-up Study, researchers report that eating two or more servings of avocado per week (1 serving = 1/3 of an avocado) may reduce the risk for cardiovascular disease by up to 16% and coronary heart disease by up to 21%. JAMA, April 2022

For Care Education and Research notes the following benefits of intermittent fasting (restricting eating to a limited window each day or not eating one or two days a week, for example): weight loss, less inflammation in the body, slows cellular aging, increases fat burning, improves insulin sensitivity, improves mental concentration, increases brain function and health,…

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is a rare form of cancer that occurs when a tumor grows at the rear of the nose. A literature review found that a high intake of processed meat, salted fish, and processed vegetables are each associated with an elevated risk for the disease. European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, May 2022

Since high intake of sodium is associated with cardiovascular disease, experts note that it’s important to limit one’s salt consumption. Tufts University lists these simple ways to help reduce salt in your diet: cook at home more often, limit prepared foods, and read nutritional food labels. Tufts University, March 2022

An analysis of diet and cognitive performance data concerning over 4,700 adults found that consuming a plant-based diet may slow cognitive decline. American Heart Association, March 2022

The American Heart Association reports that a high intake of sulfur amino acids—most commonly found in beef, chicken, and milk—may be associated with a 12% increased risk of cardiovascular disease over a three-decade time period. American Heart Association, March 2022