Based on a review of data from 17 cancer studies, researchers estimate that consuming 18 grams of mushroom per day can reduce one’s risk for cancer by up to 45%. Advances in Nutrition, April 2021

Using data from an ongoing study, researchers estimate that each daily serving of ultra-processed food increases an individual’s risk for cardiovascular disease by 5% and cardiovascular disease-related death by 9%. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, March 2021

According to a study that included data on close to 500,000 adults, consuming a 25-gram serving of processed meat each day is associated with a 44% increased risk for developing dementia later in life. Lead researcher Dr. Huifeng Zhang writes, “Worldwide, the prevalence of dementia is increasing and diet as a modifiable factor could play…

New research suggests that consuming a pro-inflammatory diet—an eating pattern characterized by a high intake of red and processed meat, high-fat dairy products, and refined grains—is associated with an elevated risk for both periodontitis and cognitive dysfunction. Nutrients, March 2021

Using data from two ongoing studies, researchers report that individuals identified as fast eaters tend to consume more calories per meal and are more likely to gain weight over time than slower eaters. Clinical Obesity, January 2021

In a recent clinical trial involving 211 healthy middle-aged and older adults, researchers observed that participants provided with a cocoa flavanol supplement for twelve weeks performed better on a list-learning task than members of a placebo group. Scientific Reports, February 2021

A review of data from 143 studies concluded that the Mediterranean diet—an eating pattern focused on eating fruits, vegetables, nuts, fish, olive oil, and whole grains while avoiding red and processed meats, dairy, saturated fats, and refined sugars—is associated with a reduced risk for obesity in adults. Public Health Nutrition, February 2021

The current research suggests that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, particularly berries and leafy greens, with a limited intake of saturated fat and animal products is associated with a reduced risk of neurocognitive decline and healthy function of the left ventricle of the heart. British Journal of Nutrition, February 2021

Among 150 patients with oral cancer, researchers observed that those who consumed at least one salad a week experienced slower cancer progression and had a higher likelihood of surviving the disease. Nutrients, January 2021

An analysis of 15 clinical trials found that low vitamin C status is associated with bleeding of the gums, gingival bleeding, bleeding in the eye, or retinal hemorrhaging. Investigators also found that increasing daily vitamin C intake helped people with low vitamin C plasma levels reverse these bleeding issues. Nutrition Reviews, February 2021