The European Food Information Council

Meat: a lot in a little

Sun, 31 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100

Fossil evidence indicates that humans have been eating meat for a very long time. Meat contains a wide variety of important nutrients, including high-quality protein, vitamin D, B vitamins, particularly vitamin B₁₂, as well as iron, zinc and selenium. Consumed in moderation, meat forms part of a healthy balanced diet.

Nutritional programming – mother’s diet and baby’s health

Sun, 31 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100

Pregnancy is a time of constant change as the new baby develops in the mother’s womb. However, have you considered that the food the mother eats during pregnancy can affect her child’s health even decades later? Understanding such ‘nutritional programming’ may help prevent diet-related diseases early on.

Physical activity and safety concerns

Sun, 31 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100

Physical activity is part of a healthy, balanced lifestyle as it helps individuals to maintain a healthy weight, is beneficial for bone and muscle health, helps with psychological well-being and reduces the risk of certain diseases including cancers, heart disease and diabetes. But it is important to be aware of safety concerns that can be associated with engaging in physical activities.

Some dietary myths dispelled

Sun, 31 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100

Will caffeinated drinks make you dehydrated? Should you limit egg consumption or avoid cooking vegetables? Can eating certain nutrients at certain times of the day help you lose weight? Fact is not always easy to distinguish from fiction.

Funding food science and nutrition research: financial conflicts and scientific integrity.

Tue, 05 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100

There has been significant public debate about the susceptibility of research to biases of various kinds. The dialogue has extended to the peer-reviewed literature, scientific conferences, the mass media, government advisory bodies, and beyond. Whereas biases can come from myriad sources, the overwhelming focus of the discussion to date has been on industry-funded science.

Feeding olive by-products may improve fat quality of meat and milk from ruminants

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100

Inclusion of olive by-products in goat and sheep diets could result in a more favourable fat profile of meat and milk from these animals, concludes a new review published in the journal Animal Feed Science and Technology.

Fast tracking action – the EU Platform for Action on Diet, Physical Activity & Health celebrates its 4th anniversary

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100

22 April, Brussels – in a candid interview to mark the fourth anniversary of the EU Platform for Action on Diet, Physical Activity & Health, Robert Madelin, Director General for Health and Consumers (DG SANCO) speaks to the European Food Information Council (EUFIC*) about the maturation of this multi-stakeholder platform and the power of co-operative voluntarism, accelerating outputs to address nutrition and health issues in Europe.

4th Anniversary of the EU Platform for Action on Diet, Physical Activity & Health

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100

To mark the fourth anniversary of the EU Platform for Action on Diet, Physical Activity & Health, Robert Madelin, Director General for Health and Consumers (DG SANCO) of the European Commission speaks to EUFIC about the maturation of this multi-stakeholder platform, the power of co-operative voluntarism, with accelerated outputs to address nutrition and health issues in Europe.

Guidelines for physical activity

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0100

The human body is designed to move; being physically active can offer a range of physical, social and psychological benefits. New guidelines have been released to help Europeans achieve a better quality of life by being more active.

Probiotic bacteria - the quest continues…

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0100

Over the past 10 years, the European market for probiotics has evolved rapidly. As consumer interest surrounding food products that are principally marketed on their health-related benefits continues to increase, what is the current knowledge around probiotics?

Taking a closer look at saturated fat

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0100

Emerging research suggests some saturated fats carry out important functions in the body. However, this does not counteract the advice that people should reduce saturated fat consumption.

The role of sodium in sports drinks

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0100

Hydration is an important part of our health and wellbeing. Even small losses of body fluid can cause headaches, lack of concentration, decreased reaction time, and lethargy, and can hinder sporting performance. Beverages, including those with sodium can help in restoring and maintaining our water balance.

Quality of fat during infancy seems more important than quantity

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 12:00:00 +0100

The quality of dietary fat intake in infants may be associated with a reduction in total and LDL (bad) cholesterol in early life, especially in girls, suggests a new study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Plant sterols lower bad cholesterol dose-dependently

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 12:00:00 +0100

Plant-derived sterols, known as phytosterols, have been shown repeatedly to lower bad LDL cholesterol in the blood. A combined analysis of existing trials, published in the Journal of Nutrition, now shows the average size of the effect can be estimated from the dose given.

HELENA study announces its final research results

Mon, 19 Jan 2009 12:00:00 +0100

In an interview with EUFIC, coordinator of the EU-funded HELENA study, Professor Luis Moreno of the University of Zaragoza (Spain), outlines the key findings from this groundbreaking research programme.

Whole grain Fact Sheet

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 12:00:00 +0100

Grains are the seeds of cereal crops such as wheat, rye, rice, oats and barley and have been a staple food for humans for thousands of years. In pre-industrial times grains were commonly eaten whole but advances in the milling and processing of grains allowed large-scale separation and removal of the bran and germ, resulting in refined flour that consists mainly of the starchy endosperm. Refined flour became popular because it produced baked goods with a softer texture and extended freshness. However the bran and germ contain a host of important nutrients, which are lost when the grain is refined. Nowadays it is increasingly recognised that foods made with whole grain can make an important contribution to our health and wellbeing and that the whole grain ‘package’ provides benefits relating to the individual nutrients they contain. Research consistently shows that regular consumption of whole grain foods as part of a healthy diet can reduce the risk of heart disease, certain types of cancer, type 2 diabetes, and may also help in weight management.

Chromium in the diet

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 12:00:00 +0100

Chromium is an essential trace element that enhances insulin function and influences carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism. It has been suggested that chromium could be used as an adjunct to weight loss and to improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes. This article examines current understanding in these areas and outlines recommendations for chromium consumption.

Focus on food allergens

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 12:00:00 +0100

The prevalence of food allergy has received much interest over the past few years, with an estimated 2-4% of adults and 6% of children now suffering from some type of food allergy. Despite knowing more than ever about the issues surrounding food allergies and the foods that may cause them, food allergies remain a complex and challenging matter.

Nutrition labelling – how, where and why?

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 12:00:00 +0100

In a bid to curb the spread of diet-related diseases, governments and food companies increasingly promote nutrition labelling to help the consumer make healthy, informed food choices. The EU-funded project FLABEL (Food Labelling to Advance Better Education for Life) will assess the state of play and develop best practice guidelines for future research and policies.

The importance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 12:00:00 +0100

The beneficial effects of consuming omega-3 fatty acids are well publicised, but omega-6 fatty acids feature far less in the news. So what are fatty acids and why is it important that we get the balance right?

Study recommends pregnant women to watch their caffeine intake

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 12:00:00 +0100

A new study, published in the British Medical Journal, suggests that pregnant women who fail to reduce their caffeine intake are at increased risk of having a baby with a lower birth weight.

EUFIC study sheds light on consumer understanding of labels and nutrition as the food labelling proposal is debated

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 12:00:00 +0100

Consumers reveal broad understanding of how to use labels. Study provides important consumer insights, says DG SANCO Director General Robert Madelin.

First EU-funded research programme on nutrition labelling launched

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 12:00:00 +0100

FLABEL (FOOD LABELLING TO ADVANCE BETTER EDUCATION FOR LIFE), the first EU-funded research programme on nutrition labelling, was officially launched today. This 3-year EU 7th Framework small collaborative FLABEL project, will provide state-of-the-art science on nutrition labels and consumer behaviour as well as best practice guidelines for future research, industry and policy-makers.

Food labels – Who reads them? Do they understand them?

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 12:00:00 +0100

EUFIC announces the results of its pan-European consumer research on in-store behaviour, understanding and use of nutrition information on food labels, and nutrition knowledge.

Listen here to the webinar

European consumers spill the beans on food labels

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:00:00 +0100

A pan-European study by the European Food Information Council (EUFIC) that was announced at the First European Food Congress in Slovenia on 8 November 2008, presents food for thought, for those who provide citizens with advice and support on diet and healthy lifestyles.

How to eat and drink healthily when travelling

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 12:00:00 +0100

Travelling on business can be very stressful. You have deadlines and important meetings, often with people you have never met before. Long journey times, hotel rooms, flights, queues and dealing with living out of a suitcase – all add to the stress. It is important to choose your food carefully as this is one area you have some control over.

Seaweed – exploring its dietary value

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 12:00:00 +0100

Seaweed has long been part of the traditional diet of coastal communities. It is still widely consumed in East Asia, particularly Japan, China and Korea, but not to any great extent in Europe. Seaweed has been attracting interest recently as a valuable food source with a number of health benefits - time for some facts.

What happens when we cook food – understanding acrylamide formation

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 12:00:00 +0100

For many thousands of years, people have used heat to cook foods. However, along with the formation of the desired flavour, odour and colour compounds, the process of heating can also lead to the formation of less favourable substances. One such compound that has received much scientific and media interest over recent years is acrylamide.

Drinking water before a meal may help reduce calorie intake in the elderly

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 12:00:00 +0100

Elderly people trying to eat less may benefit from drinking a large glass of water before meals, suggest two studies from the USA.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 12:00:00 +0100

In an interview with EUFIC, Executive Director of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), Catherine Geslain-Lanéelle explains the agency’s role and current activities, and considers the challenges of managing food safety in Europe.

Are parents over-feeding their children?

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 12:00:00 +0100

Are parents over-feeding their children? Parents need advice on how to feed their children - 35% think children need more calories than Dad

Slow eating may be rewarded with lower calorie intake in women

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 12:00:00 +0100

Women who eat slowly may end up consuming less calories than fast-eating women, despite longer duration of eating occasions.

One in four UK consumers look for nutrition information on food labels

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 12:00:00 +0100

New study reveals high awareness and good understanding of nutrition labelling schemes in the UK but a lower use of labels in supermarkets

Despite UK shoppers being six times more likely to look at the front rather than the back of pack and 80% being aware of Guideline Daily Amount (GDA) and Traffic Light (TL) labelling schemes, new research from the European Food Information Council (EUFIC) shows that only one in four shoppers actually looked for nutrition information on food packaging in supermarkets.

Breaking barriers to healthy food choice and physical activity in young children

Thu, 31 Jul 2008 12:00:00 +0100

Parents’ lack of money, time for cooking, and motivation are some of the important barriers to achieving a healthy diet in children. Similarly, lack of sports facilities, intolerant neighbours, and not having a garden can act as barriers to being more physically active. These are the first results of the European IDEFICS study (Identification and Prevention of Dietary- and Lifestyle-Induced Health Effects in Children and Infants).

Cholesterol: the good, the bad and the average

Thu, 31 Jul 2008 12:00:00 +0100

Cholesterol often gets a bad press and, in a way, that is right because a high level of bad cholesterol in your blood is a major risk factor for heart disease. A healthy balanced lifestyle and diet can help reduce the risk of heart disease, but cholesterol also plays a vital role in keeping the body healthy.

New European Union law REACH regulating the use of chemical substances

Thu, 31 Jul 2008 12:00:00 +0100

The new European Union (EU) law on chemicals and their safe use, known as REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals), came into effect on the 1st June 2007. The aims of this new law are to improve the protection of human health and the environment from the risks that can be posed by chemical substances, to promote alternative safety testing methods and to improve the safe handling and use of substances across all sectors of industry.

The link between intense physical activity and a healthy body weight

Thu, 31 Jul 2008 12:00:00 +0100

Physical activity is related to health and lifestyle status and should be part of everyone’s daily routine. With growing rates of obesity and its associated health problems, physical activity is now more important than ever.

Brazil nuts may be effective in improving selenium status

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 12:00:00 +0100

Brazil nuts may be as effective as selenium supplements in raising selenium levels, suggests a new study from New Zealand.

Beta-carotene supplements may help prevent sunburns

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 12:00:00 +0100

Daily intake of supplemental beta-carotene for a minimum of 10 weeks contributes to sunburn protection, finds a meta-analysis by German scientists.

EUFIC launches Energy Balance website in response to consumer confusion

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:00:00 +0100

Barcelona (EuroScience Open Forum) 18 July 2008

Consumers find it difficult to understand the balance between energy intake and output. In a recent online survey by the European Food Information Council (EUFIC), less than half of the respondents knew how much energy the body needs. Only 32% estimated correctly the physical activity needed to balance the energy consumed in a chocolate bar, and only 24% estimated correctly the average contribution of physical activity to daily energy expenditure.

To help resolve consumer confusion around this topic, EUFIC has launched a new section on its popular website dedicated to explaining Energy Balance through the provision of supportive energy balance information and personalised interactive tools.

Low blood levels of vitamin D associated with heart disease risk

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 12:00:00 +0100

Low levels of vitamin D circulating in the blood may be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, suggests a new study from Harvard School of Public Health.

Genetic factors remain major driver of obesity risk

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 12:00:00 +0100

A large UK study has concluded that our genes may determine as much as 77% of our obesity risk, while environmental factors seem to be less important.

Maternal and infant predictors of child obesity

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 12:00:00 +0100

Early life factors, such as birth weight, maternal smoking and fathers’ weight, can all predispose a young child to obesity, suggest two European studies.

Fat cell number stays constant in adults

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 12:00:00 +0100

Whatever changes in body fat we may experience as adults, it is only the filling state of our fat cells that varies. The number of fat cells is set during childhood and adolescence and remains constant throughout later life.

Following a Mediterranean diet may lower diabetes risk

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 12:00:00 +0100

Closely adhering to a diet rich in fruit and vegetables, olive oil and fish, but with moderate dairy and low red meat intake, may reduce largely the risk of developing diabetes. This finding extends the benefits of the so-called Mediterranean diet beyond its potential to lower heart disease and cancer risk.

Macadamia nuts may benefit people with elevated cholesterol levels

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 12:00:00 +0100

Daily consumption of a handful of Macadamia nuts for five weeks helped individuals with elevated cholesterol to significantly improve their blood lipid and cholesterol profile. These findings support further the previously reported heart-healthy effects of nuts such as walnuts or almonds.

Food additives

Fri, 20 Jun 2008 12:00:00 +0100

Despite modern-day associations food additives have been used for centuries. Food preservation began when man first learned to safeguard food from one harvest to the next and by the salting and smoking of meat and fish. Over the last 50 years, developments in food science and technology have led to the discovery of many new substances that can fulfil numerous functions in foods.

Living longer healthier lives through increased physical activity

Fri, 20 Jun 2008 12:00:00 +0100

In the second of two podcasts recorded recently at the Second International Conference on Physical Activity & Public Health (ICPAPH) in Amsterdam, EUFIC spoke with Professors Nick Wareham and Ken Fox about the important part that physical activity can play in reducing the risk of chronic diseases and increasing mental well-being.

Dieting and weight increase in adolescents

Fri, 30 May 2008 12:00:00 +0100

At the recent Food in Action conference organised in conjunction with EUFIC, psychologist Dr Andrew Hill revealed a number of counter-intuitive findings about what makes adolescents obese. His findings shine an alternative light on the issue and offer insight into new approaches to tackle this problem.

EU SAFE FOODS project questions the current approach to food risk analysis

Fri, 30 May 2008 12:00:00 +0100

The classical food risk analysis model, developed in the 1990s, breaks the risk analysis process into three stages: risk assessment, risk management, and risk communication. But some scientists believe that this model – and practices associated with it – may not be addressing consumers’ concerns on challenging food safety issues.

Food addiction or food craving?

Fri, 30 May 2008 12:00:00 +0100

Some people believe that foods high in fat or sugar might be addictive, thereby driving consumers to overeating and obesity. Does it mean that foods should be regarded in the same way as alcohol or cigarettes? Or is it that people confuse the terms “addiction”, “craving” and “eating disorders”?

Selenium in the Diet

Fri, 30 May 2008 12:00:00 +0100

There has been much interest in the role of selenium in recent years. As intakes have drifted downwards in Europe, concern has been expressed that marginal deficiencies may be putting us at greater risk of developing chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. But is this the case and what should be done about it?

The consequences of sedentary lifestyles & why we should be physically active

Fri, 23 May 2008 12:00:00 +0100

In the first of two podcasts recorded recently at the Second International Conference on Physical Activity & Public Health (ICPAPH) in Amsterdam, EUFIC spoke with Professors Steven Blair and Stuart Biddle about the impact of sedentary lifestyle behaviours and the conducive environments that support inactivity. Professor Blair details the risk associated with cardiovascular disease whilst Professor Biddle focuses on inactivity amongst Europe’s adolescents.

Food, physical activity and cancer - a review of existing studies

Mon, 05 May 2008 12:00:00 +0100

In November 2007 a major report was published that reviewed existing studies on the relative risk of different types of cancer through lifestyle choices. Drawing together high quality research and international scientific expertise, this report, published jointly by the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) and American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) is the state of the art on the relationship between food, body composition, physical activity and different types of cancer.

Sleep deprivation and metabolic consequences

Mon, 05 May 2008 12:00:00 +0100

The ‘24/7’ culture of Western societies, whereby wakefulness is extended due to work or social pressures, has implications for our quality of sleep, and perhaps our risk of obesity and diabetes, according to research.

Zinc - a supernutrient?

Mon, 05 May 2008 12:00:00 +0100

This mineral is ubiquitous in the body. Essential for core functions like digestion, reproduction and growth, zinc is linked to the performance of many body systems. Its list of benefits is extensive and sometimes ambitious - can zinc really fight infection and heal wounds?

Characterising the nutritional value of foods, using nutrient profiling

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 12:00:00 +0100

Nutrient (or nutritional) profiling of foods, described as the science of characterising foods based on their nutrient content, is fast becoming the basis for regulating health claims on foods, fortification, and marketing and advertising to children. Accordingly, several health authorities and regulatory bodies are assessing the nutritional profiles of food items, to implement guidelines aimed at improving the diet of the general population. Nevertheless, it is widely accepted that the complete diet over a period of time is important when considering overall nutrition and health, rather than isolating individual nutrients.

A new EU regulation on nutrition and health claims made on foods entered into force in January 2007. The regulation provides for the use of nutrient profiles to determine which foods may bear claims but does not specify what the profiles should be or how they should be developed. EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) have published a scientific opinion on which foods may carry nutrition and health claims, to assist policy makers. The next stage of the process is the definition of the nutrient profiling scheme.

Overweight parents more likely to have overweight children

Fri, 08 Feb 2008 12:00:00 +0100

A Greek study conducted by Harokopio University in Athens has confirmed the belief amongst health professionals that child obesity risk is much higher when parents themselves are overweight.

Snacks and inactivity predict overweight in childhood

Mon, 04 Feb 2008 12:00:00 +0100

A French study has evaluated the influence of different lifestyle patterns, finding that a combination of low activity and high snacking predicts the risk of obesity.

Very low carb diets could be incompatible with exercise

Fri, 01 Feb 2008 12:00:00 +0100

While very low carbohydrate (ketogenic) diets are popular with those trying to lose weight, there are concerns that such diets may not support the desire for exercise. This hypothesis was investigated by a US research team at Arizona State University.

Understanding scientific studies

Thu, 17 Jan 2008 12:00:00 +0100

The media, health professionals, and educators are the gatekeepers of today's food and health information. They have a large influence on what consumers hear, read, and believe about food and health. Along with that comes the responsibility to provide the facts accurately, put them in perspective, and help people understand how the findings may affect their behaviour and health choices. Responsible media reporting means that new studies should be critically reviewed before being publicised. News releases and study abstracts, although helpful for the identification of interesting research, do not provide all the information necessary to accurately report findings to the public.

Current guidelines on physical activity may create misconceptions

Thu, 06 Dec 2007 12:00:00 +0100

A study from the United Kingdom suggests that current recommendations on physical activity may create wrong beliefs about the benefits of different types of exercise.

Sugar sweetened drinks seem not to be associated with child obesity

Mon, 03 Dec 2007 12:00:00 +0100

High consumption of soft drinks sweetened with sugar has been viewed as a cause of obesity. However, data from a longitudinal UK study, does not support this association.

Objective assessment of physical activity reveals self-reported overestimation

Tue, 27 Nov 2007 12:00:00 +0100

According to a Swedish study, adults seem to overestimate their levels of physical activity.

Food in Action Conference, November 29th and 30th 2007 - Podcast

Wed, 21 Nov 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Food in Action 2007 looks at the motivational and behavioural aspects of obesity. Starting with how food choice develops in a young age, through consumer’s attitudes and behaviour towards food label information, Food in Action 2007 investigates the influence of the environment and the importance that psychological aspects play in the onset of obesity in an early age. Finally, the important role of physical activity in energy balance is tackled, together with ongoing initiatives and programmes aiming at finding solutions.

All conference presentations will be audio recorded and made available as a podcast or download after the event.

http://www.focusbiz.co.uk/conferences/foodinaction/

Addressing the variation in micronutrient recommendations in Europe

Tue, 13 Nov 2007 12:00:00 +0100

The EURRECA (EURopean micronutrient RECommendations Aligned) Network of Excellence has been established to work towards a framework of advice on micronutrients to better inform policy-makers as they formulate national recommendations. The aim is to produce Europe-wide scientific consensus on the evidence on which micronutrient recommendations can be used, enabling such evidence to be converted rapidly, conveniently and appropriately into recommendations published in national policy documents.

Food safety tips for travellers

Tue, 13 Nov 2007 12:00:00 +0100

For many Europeans the Autumn and Winter seasons are the ideal periods to explore more exotic holiday destinations, but travellers should be cautious, especially if they intend to visit developing countries. One in three travellers fall ill because of contaminated food and water, most often suffering from travellers’ diarrhoea (TD). Casualty rate may go up to 80% for those staying in high-risk destinations within Asia, Africa and Latin America. But don’t panic: you can prevent food- or water-borne illness provided that you take certain precautionary measures.

Sugars in our diet

Tue, 13 Nov 2007 12:00:00 +0100

In view of the increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity in Europe, the role of certain carbohydrates, like sugar, is often controversially discussed. Here are some facts about the role of carbohydrates, sugars and sugar in our diet.

Chewing gum found to control appetite

Mon, 05 Nov 2007 12:00:00 +0100

UK researchers from Glasgow Caledonian University set out to examine whether chewing gum could positively influence perception of hunger and fullness, and impact on short-term energy intake.

Current food allergy labelling can still be improved

Fri, 26 Oct 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Consumers with allergies do not find current food labels helpful, according to a study published by Dutch scientists.

Low vitamin D may be linked to pregnancy complication

Mon, 22 Oct 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Mothers with low blood levels of vitamin D may be at a higher risk of pre-eclampsia according to a new US study.

Repeated dietary counselling in childhood may help lower heart disease risk

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 12:00:00 +0100

A Finnish study showed that long-term dietary changes to lower saturated fat and cholesterol intakes have a positive impact on serum cholesterol in children and therefore may help lower their risk of cardiovascular disease later on.

Folic acid may help prevent heart disease

Wed, 03 Oct 2007 12:00:00 +0100

A meta-analysis of folic acid supplementation studies has found a positive impact on an important cardiovascular disease risk factor. This suggests that high doses of folic acid could be useful in cardiovascular disease prevention.

Wholegrains may have prebiotic effects

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Health benefits associated with wholegrains may be, in part, due to their prebiotic effect. This is the conclusion of a 3-week intervention study conducted by UK scientists at Reading.

Simple energy-based front-of-pack label preferred by consumers

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Front-of-pack labelling schemes have been developed against a background of concerns about rising obesity levels. Research conducted by the European Food Information Council (EUFIC) in conjunction with Wageningen University, looked at the potential of different energy-based front-of-pack flags to engage consumers and help them understand the nutrition information on food labels. The most preferred option was calorie content per portion or per 100g.

Low GI breakfasts impact on appetite in children

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 12:00:00 +0100

A long-term study has found that children given breakfasts with a low glycaemic index (GI) tend to reduce their daily energy intakes by 60 kcal on average. The modest energy reduction, if maintained, could have a significant impact on obesity risk.

School physical activity may help prevent fat gain in boys

Fri, 21 Sep 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Schools offering three physical activity sessions a week may be more effective at preventing adiposity (fat gain) in children than schools offering just one session a week, claims a new UK study.

Calcium intakes close to recommendations reduce the risk of bone fracture

Wed, 19 Sep 2007 12:00:00 +0100

A new Australian study has found that people who consumed 1200 mg of calcium per day had a 20% reduced risk of bone fracture than people with low calcium intakes. Bone density was also higher in people with adequate calcium intakes. The addition of vitamin D influenced bone health only slightly.

European Commission seeks action in response to their Nutrition White Paper (podcast)

Wed, 19 Sep 2007 12:00:00 +0100

More information about this podcast

Robert Madelin, Director General of the European Commission’s DG SANCO, discusses in his latest interview with EUFIC, the implications of the EU White Paper on Nutrition, Overweight and Obesity related health issues and what can be expected in the months ahead.

European Commission seeks action in response to their Nutrition White Paper (vodcast)

Wed, 19 Sep 2007 12:00:00 +0100

More information about this podcast

Some food additives linked with hyperactivity

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 12:00:00 +0100

A study by researchers at the University of Southampton has linked increased levels of hyperactivity in young children consuming mixtures of some artificial food colours and the preservative sodium benzoate.

Food Additives Factsheet

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Food Additives Factsheet

Assortative mating may be contributing to obesity prevalence

Wed, 29 Aug 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Previous research using measures, such as body mass index (BMI) or skinfold thickness, has suggested that spouses are similar in terms of body fat. A recent study employing the more accurate technique of duel-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) has now confirmed this finding.

Anorexia: more common than thought but patients do recover

Mon, 27 Aug 2007 12:00:00 +0100

A new study has shed light on the eating disorder, anorexia nervosa. The illness appears to have higher incidence than previously thought, however, its outcome is generally good: up to 70% of anorexic women recover by the age of 30.

Children’s neophobia has a genetic component

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Neophobia, a reluctance to try new foods, is common in young children. A UK study has now discovered that the trait of neophobia is mainly genetic rather than influenced by a child’s environment.

Low carb, high protein diets may be unhealthy in the long term

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Low-carbohydrate, high-protein diets (an example of such a diet could be the Atkins diet), are popular for weight control. Short-term intervention studies suggest that these diets produce a similar weight loss to traditional high-carbohydrate, moderate-protein diets. However, a large observational study has suggested that low-carbohydrate, high-protein diets may not be healthy in the long run.

Diet and exercise best for post-natal weight management

Thu, 16 Aug 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Women keen to lose weight after childbirth should combine diet and exercise claims a new study published by the influential Cochrane Database.

Large portions contribute to weight gain

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Portion sizes of ready-to-eat foods and restaurant meals have steadily increased over the past decade. This has prompted concern from health educators because larger portion sizes may cause over-consumption of energy and weight gain. A new US study suggests that this analysis is correct.

Coffee may reduce the risk of liver cancer

Fri, 10 Aug 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Regular coffee drinking could lower the risk of liver cancer by up to 55%, suggests a new meta-analysis. The prevalence of liver cancer is rare in Western countries but affects considerable numbers of people in East and South East Asia.

Wholegrains, not fibre, seem to lower colorectal cancer risk

Thu, 09 Aug 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Scientists have long debated whether or not total fibre intake affects the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Now a US study has shown that wholegrains, not total fibre, seem to be effective against the disease.

Food cravings: a challenge during weight loss

Mon, 06 Aug 2007 12:00:00 +0100

The common belief that food cravings are simply due to an addiction to high carbohydrate foods has been explored by US researchers.

Could sugar help weight loss programmes succeed?

Fri, 03 Aug 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Slimmers don’t need to cut sugar out of their diets claims new research from Scotland, where 60% of adults are overweight or obese.

Cinnamon may delay glucose response

Fri, 27 Jul 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Adding cinnamon to carbohydrate meals may slow the rise in blood sugars, claims a new study. This could be helpful for people with diabetes, or those concerned about blood sugar control.

Fried foods related to obesity risk

Wed, 25 Jul 2007 12:00:00 +0100

A Spanish observational study seems to confirm suspicions that high intakes of fried food are associated with obesity.

High fructose corn syrup: does it have an impact on satiety?

Mon, 23 Jul 2007 12:00:00 +0100

A new US study shows that high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) used to sweeten certain beverages has a similar impact on hunger and satiety as sucrose.

All about nuts

Mon, 16 Jul 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Research in the nineties indicated that nuts were good for heart health but the reason for that was unknown. Recent studies are shedding light on the matter and finding other benefits of nut consumption…

Finding out more about food choices and preferences of adolescents in Europe

Mon, 16 Jul 2007 12:00:00 +0100

The HELENA (Healthy Lifestyle in Europe by Nutrition in Adolescents) study gives new insights into the food and lifestyle habits of young people in five countries and shows surprising similarities, as well as some key differences, across Europe.

Food labelling and nutrition and health claims

Mon, 16 Jul 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Nowadays more food labels contain nutrition and health information that gives us useful knowledge about the food we buy. It can help us to understand the contribution different foods make to our health and well-being and to choose a more balanced diet.

New system for assessing chemical safety

Mon, 16 Jul 2007 12:00:00 +0100

We are exposed to thousands of chemical substances in our daily lives. Some of them are beneficial to health (for instance, the main components of foods) but other substances (which may be present in food or in the environment) can induce adverse health effects. The likelihood of adverse health effects is related to the magnitude, frequency and duration of exposure to this chemical.

Cocoa may help reduce cholesterol levels

Fri, 13 Jul 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Eating cocoa could help reduce LDL ‘bad’ cholesterol, according to a Japanese intervention study.

Infants may benefit from maternal DHA supplementation

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 12:00:00 +0100

According to a US intervention study, infants were better at problem-solving when their mothers were supplemented during pregnancy with the omega-3 fatty acid, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

Low carb diets may be bad for gut health

Mon, 09 Jul 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Weight loss diets that restrict dietary carbohydrates are popular with slimmers but may have a harmful effect on gut health, according to Scottish researchers.

Vitamin D could help reduce cancer risk

Thu, 05 Jul 2007 12:00:00 +0100

A long-term dietary trial has revealed that supplementation with calcium and vitamin D can dramatically lower the risk of cancer in women.

More evidence for wholegrain benefits

Tue, 03 Jul 2007 12:00:00 +0100

A new US study adds to recent evidence showing that eating wholegrains helps to lower the risk of heart disease.

Green tea may halve risk of colon cancer

Mon, 25 Jun 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Green tea is rich in polyphenol antioxidants, which are believed to help protect against cancer and heart disease. A study from China has reported beneficial associations between regular consumption of green tea and colorectal cancer risk. The disease affects around a million people worldwide and is linked to poor eating habits, low levels of physical activity, and ageing populations.

Folic acid could reduce stroke

Fri, 22 Jun 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Mandatory folic acid fortification is becoming a reality in many Western countries to cut the incidence of birth defects. A meta-analysis has now suggested that folic acid may offer health benefits for adults, namely reductions in the risk of stroke.

Boiling vegetables may impair anti-cancer properties

Thu, 21 Jun 2007 12:00:00 +0100

The anti-cancer properties of Brassica vegetables, namely broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts, are well-known. However, boiling such vegetables severely impairs their potential health benefits, as a new UK study has reported.

Soy nuts may reduce blood pressure

Fri, 15 Jun 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Adding soy nuts to a healthy diet is an effective way of lowering blood pressure and LDL (‘bad’ cholesterol), according to a new US study in women.

Fruit carotenoids better choice for functional ingredients

Wed, 13 Jun 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Fruits and vegetables are rich sources of health-promoting nutrients called carotenoids. However, benefits to human health depend on how well these nutrients are absorbed by the body after digestion. A new study has shown that fruit carotenoids are better absorbed than those from green vegetables. This means that fruit carotenoids may be a better choice as ingredients for functional food and beverage products.

Is eating between meals good for our health?

Tue, 12 Jun 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Over the last few decades, there have been great changes in how Europeans work, rest and play and our eating habits have adapted accordingly. One consequence of our modern fast paced lifestyles is that we tend to eat on the go and it is commonly believed that we are having more eating episodes outside meals than in the past. This review will examine if this is the case and consider the health implications of this aspect of our dietary habits.

Apples' secret revealed

Mon, 11 Jun 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Increasing amounts of evidence point to the health properties of apples, which are a major source of polyphenols. These powerful antioxidants are believed to offer protection against the development of cancer and heart disease. Now research has shown that of all the apple parts, the peel is the richest source of polyphenols.

Dietary flavonoids may reduce ovarian cancer risk

Fri, 08 Jun 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Ovarian cancer affects more than 60,000 European women annually with most cases occurring in Northern Europe. This study suggests that dietary intake of certain flavonoids may reduce ovarian cancer risk.

Three meals may be better than one

Wed, 06 Jun 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Due to lifestyle changes, there is an increasing number of people who choose to eat just once a day, but is this good for our health? New research suggests that our body copes better with the traditional three meals a day when compared with the same amount eaten in one meal.

Conjugated linoleic acid and obesity

Fri, 01 Jun 2007 12:00:00 +0100

With obesity affecting millions of consumers in Europe, there is strong interest in food ingredients that could help consumers regularize their weight and body composition.

Apples and fish may protect children from asthma

Wed, 30 May 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Maternal diet is thought to have an impact on subsequent child health. This is because aspects of the mother’s diet can condition the rapidly growing organs of the foetus. A new study from Scotland has found that children whose pregnant mothers ate apples or fish were less likely to develop allergic conditions.

Cereal fibre linked to low diabetes risk

Tue, 29 May 2007 12:00:00 +0100

A large European study has found links between cereal fibre intake and a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. The findings were backed by a meta-analysis of the scientific literature.

Allergy in children not linked to birth weight and gestational age

Fri, 25 May 2007 12:00:00 +0100

An estimated 4 to 8% of people living in the EU are believed to suffer from food allergies, according to allergy organisations. Parents of newborns are advised to prolong breast-feeding, wean after 6 months, and avoid early exposure to potential food allergens to reduce their offspring’s risk of developing allergies. This is because the immature gut is thought to be permeable to food proteins, leading to an adverse immune response which could evolve into a food allergy. However, a new study from Canada suggests that this advice could be misplaced.

Eating fish may normalise heart function

Thu, 24 May 2007 12:00:00 +0100

A study from Greece lends more support to the claim that eating fish is good for the heart. The large observational study looked at the impact of various dietary factors on cardiac arrhythmia, a condition where the heart beats irregularly and which can be fatal in many cases.

Flavonoids and heart disease

Mon, 21 May 2007 12:00:00 +0100

A Finnish study has looked at the heart health benefits associated with 26 antioxidant nutrients from the Flavonoid group (part of the Polyphenol family of antioxidants). Flavonoids are found in certain fruits and vegetables, in tea, coffee, red wine and cocoa. Sub-classes of flavonoids include flavonols, flavones, flavanones, flavan-3-ols and anthocyanidins.

Concern about low intakes of vitamin D

Fri, 18 May 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Two studies have highlighted issues with vitamin D intake in Europe. Currently, few countries have dietary recommendations for vitamin D because our bodies can make vitamin D in response to sunlight. However, there is now concern that significant numbers of people are at risk from vitamin D deficiency, also called hypovitaminosis D.

Caffeine and health

Tue, 08 May 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Many cultures have given an important place to caffeine-containing foods and beverages. Caffeine is one of the best studied food ingredients, but scientific research has not exhausted all we should know about it. In this article we will discuss the short-term physiological effects of this common substance. We will also examine whether or not caffeine affects the risk of diseases such as cardiovascular disease and cancer, and its impact in special groups such as caffeine abusers.

Learning Healthy Living – Development of a European intervention strategy

Tue, 08 May 2007 12:00:00 +0100

The IDEFICS study (Identification and prevention of Dietary- and lifestyle-induced health EFfects In Children and infantS) is a recently launched 5-year multi-centre, pan European epidemiological study, funded by the European Commission. Focussing on 2-10 year-old children, it has the challenging objectives of both understanding the multi-factorial origin of childhood overweight and obesity, and of preventing it and its related disorders.

Preventing childhood obesity – guidance from previous studies (4/4)

Tue, 08 May 2007 12:00:00 +0100

This is the last in the series of articles examining the prevention of childhood obesity and will look at the overall guidance gleaned from earlier studies which can be used to inform and improve future interventions.

Diet policies should promote wholegrains

Wed, 02 May 2007 12:00:00 +0100

A new analysis of heart health studies has criticised policy makers for failing to promote wholegrain foods sufficiently. The meta-analysis combined data from seven observational studies, involving a total of 149,000 subjects. It was found that subjects eating at least 2.5 servings of wholegrains per day experienced a 21% reduction in the risk of heart disease or stroke compared with subjects who ate only 0.2 servings per day.

Almonds, heart health and weight

Fri, 27 Apr 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Unsaturated ‘omega-3’ fats from nuts could offer heart health benefits. However, nuts are viewed as being high in total fat and calories, which has discouraged their use in traditional heart health diets.

Insufficient data to link sugar with nutrient dilution

Fri, 27 Apr 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Critics of sugar-containing foods claim that high sugar diets contain inadequate amounts of vitamins and minerals. This is sometimes called a ‘nutrient dilution’ effect. However, a new review has questioned whether there is enough evidence to say this.

Weight re-gain may be inevitable for dieters

Fri, 20 Apr 2007 12:00:00 +0100

An analysis of long-term dieting studies carried out by US psychologists has revealed that most weight-loss diets don’t work in the long term. Professor Traci Mann, from the University of California in Los Angeles, conducted a rigorous analysis of 31 long-term studies to find out whether successful dieters were able to maintain their new weight in the long-term.

Obesity linked to genes

Thu, 19 Apr 2007 12:00:00 +0100

For years, unsuccessful dieters have tended to blame weight problems on their genes. New research suggests that there may be some truth in this, but it does not negate the importance of diet and exercise in weight management.

Mediterranean diet may protect children against asthma

Fri, 13 Apr 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Children who eat a Mediterranean-style diet seem to have a lower risk of developing asthma, suggests new research. The survey of nearly 700 children living on the Greek island of Crete showed that a high intake of nuts, grapes, tomatoes and oranges was linked with a 50-80% lower risk of wheezing in 7 to 18 year olds.

Wholegrains linked to heart health

Fri, 13 Apr 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Research presented at the annual American Heart Association conference suggests that eating wholegrain cereals can lower the risk of heart failure. The research was based on data from the Physicians’ Health Study, which followed the health and lifestyle of more than 10,000 American doctors from 1982 to 2006.

Novel probiotic yoghurt drink could lift mood

Wed, 11 Apr 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Frequency of constipation has been linked with poor mood, possibly because of gastric discomfort and bloating. Probiotics – live beneficial bacteria added to food or drinks – are known to relieve constipation. British researchers brought these two aspects together in order to test the impact of a probiotic drink on mood and bowel habits.

Tomato products may offer health benefits

Wed, 11 Apr 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Tomatoes are a rich source of the antioxidant nutrient, lycopene. Studies have shown that lycopene can help protect body cells from oxidative damage in the same way that antioxidants in food processing prevent fats from becoming rancid.

New sweeteners study shows no link with cancer

Fri, 06 Apr 2007 12:00:00 +0100

A study of more than 16,000 patients has found no link between sweetener intake and the risk of cancer. This supports a previous ruling by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

High Glycaemic Index foods may hasten sleep

Thu, 29 Mar 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Many people experience difficulty in getting off to sleep. Scientists have shown that carbohydrate foods with a high Glycaemic Index (GI) may induce a quicker sleep onset.

Absorption of food folate better than expected

Wed, 28 Mar 2007 12:00:00 +0100

A new study has found that the absorption of the natural form of folic acid present in foods, called folate, relative to folic acid capsules, is better than expected.

Antioxidant impact of juice not due to vitamin C

Mon, 26 Mar 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Experts believe that heart disease and cancer have their origins in long-term damage to the body’s cells caused by free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive molecules created during normal metabolism or via exposure to pollutants in the environment e.g. cigarette smoke. Normally, the body is able to protect itself from free radical damage with antioxidant nutrients in the blood. However, the stress of daily life combined with poor diets often leaves individuals with a deficient antioxidant defence. This increases the importance of dietary sources of antioxidants.

Could oily fish strengthen bones?

Fri, 23 Mar 2007 12:00:00 +0100

The cardiovascular effects of the omega-3 fats present in oily fish are well-known. Now a new study points to a benefit for bone health.

Independent expert panel confirms safety of Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)

Thu, 22 Mar 2007 12:00:00 +0100

An international team of experts has met to consider new evidence on the safety of the food additive, monosodium glutamate (MSG), which is used to enhance flavour in Chinese food and some processed food and beverage products. The resulting consensus was intended to replace a similar exercise published in 1997.

2nd Anniversary of the EU Platform for Action on Diet, Physical Activity & Health

Wed, 14 Mar 2007 12:00:00 +0100

More information about this podcast

In celebration of the second anniversary of the EU Platform for Action on Diet, Physical Activity & Health, Robert Madelin, Director General for Public Health and Consumer Protection (DG SANCO) of the European Commission speaks frankly to EUFIC about what has been achieved, what could be improved and the role of the EU Platform in future EU policy making.

Making sense of Guideline Daily Amounts

Sat, 10 Mar 2007 12:00:00 +0100

You may have noticed the term Guideline Daily Amounts or GDAs mentioned on food labels, but what does it mean? Guideline Daily Amounts are a guide to the total amount of energy and nutrients that a typical healthy adult should be eating in a day.

A new study has examined a quirky aspect of consumer behaviour: Do shopping lists promote or prevent healthy choices?

Thu, 08 Mar 2007 12:00:00 +0100

The study, from the Journal of Consumer Research, suggests having to come up with options from memory led to more impulsive decisions.

Study suggests Atkins Diet is effective

Wed, 07 Mar 2007 12:00:00 +0100

The Atkins Diet is in the news again - and this time with the backing of a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Women following the Atkins diet lost more weight than women following other diets, with no concerns expressed over cardiovascular risk factors.

Hyperactivity and artificial food colours

Mon, 05 Mar 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Over 30 years ago, it was proposed that much of the hyperactivity involved with learning disabilities could be attributed to artificial food colours (AFCs) as well as certain fruits and vegetables containing salicylates and sugar. Ever since, dozens of scientists have put these theories to the test but the evidence remains controversial.

Preventing childhood obesity - examining the setting (3/4)

Sun, 04 Mar 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Previously in this series of articles we discussed key messages for the primary prevention of childhood obesity, and how the age, gender and ethnicity of the target children affect outcome. Now we examine the influence of the setting on programme success.

Maternal seafood consumption in pregnancy and neurodevelopmental outcomes in childhood (ALSPAC study): an observational cohort study

Mon, 19 Feb 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Higher maternal seafood consumption during pregnancy results in children showing better neurological function than children whose mothers eat low amounts or no seafood during pregnancy, according to an Article. The authors conclude: “we noted that children of mothers who ate small amounts of seafood were more likely to have suboptimum neurodevelopmental outcomes than children of mothers who ate more seafood”

Q&A on Avian Influenza: Is it safe to eat poultry meat and eggs?

Mon, 19 Feb 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Birds, like people, can have the flu. Avian influenza or bird flu was first identified over 100 years ago during an outbreak in Italy. Over the years, the disease has appeared from time to time in regions all over the world. Avian influenza spreads easily among wild birds, but it can also infect domesticated birds including chickens, turkeys and ducks. Left untreated, avian influenza can devastate an entire flock of chickens.

Breakthrough in understanding type-2 diabetes as key genes identified

Wed, 07 Feb 2007 12:00:00 +0100

The most important genes associated with a risk of developing type-2 diabetes have been identified, scientists report in a new study.

Using fibre in the fight against breast cancer

Wed, 24 Jan 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Wholemeal bread and wholegrain cereal could be key weapons in the battle against breast cancer.

A spoonful of sugar makes the medicine go to work

Mon, 22 Jan 2007 12:00:00 +0100

There will soon be no more bitter pills to swallow, thanks to new research by Leeds scientists: a spoonful of sugar will be all we need for our bodies to make their own medicine.

The "NutritionDay in Europe" initiative will, on January 25, collect benchmarking data from 31 countries about nutrition care provision in European hospitals

Mon, 22 Jan 2007 12:00:00 +0100

Data collected on NutritionDay2006 showed that disease-related malnutrition increases length of stay by 6 days and is accompanied by a fourfold increase in mortality. The president of the Ecosocial Forum Europe, former EU-commissar Franz Fischler emphasises the social dimension of the Initiative.

Global Consumer attitudes to nutrition information on food labels

Thu, 21 Dec 2006 12:00:00 +0100

More information about this podcast

Do consumers around the world know how much they should be eating? Do they know the energy content of the foods they eat? Do consumers read the nutrition information on label, do they understand what it means, and do they use it when choosing foods?

The Community Summary Report on Trends and Sources of Zoonoses, Zoonotic Agents, Antimicrobial Resistance and Foodborne Outbreaks in the European Union in 2005

Wed, 20 Dec 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Zoonoses are diseases or infections, which are transmissible from animals to humans. The infection can be acquired directly from animals, or through ingestion of contaminated foodstuffs. In humans, the gravity of these diseases can vary from mild symptoms to life threatening conditions. The importance of a zoonosis as a human disease depends on several factors, such as severity of the disease, the case fatality, and number of cases (incidence) in the population.

A big future for the science of the small

Tue, 19 Dec 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Nanotechnology is the development of new products and processes using matter with dimensions in the range of approximately 0.1 to 100 nanometres. A nanometre is one-billionth of a metre (or one-millionth of a millimetre), making this truly the ‘science of the small’. To put this in perspective, the width of one atom is approximately one-tenth of a nanometre, a DNA molecule is about 2.5 nanometres wide and the thickness of a human hair is approximately 80,000 nanometres.

Preventing childhood obesity - examining what initiatives work (2/4)

Tue, 19 Dec 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Programmes to prevent childhood overweight and obesity, which focus on modification of dietary behaviour, increasing physical activity or reducing sedentary behaviour, have been underway for a number of years in countries all over the world. Encouraging results have provided useful data for the development of future initiatives. This is the second in a series of articles discussing current research on the prevention of childhood obesity.

Salt, potassium and the control of blood pressure

Tue, 19 Dec 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Salt is the common name we use for sodium chloride (NaCl). Salt is essential for life and for good health. High blood pressure is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and stroke. It is related to high sodium and low potassium intakes, but can recommendations to reduce our salt intakes make a difference?

Food is getting healthier and better, thanks to EU research

Tue, 12 Dec 2006 12:00:00 +0100

“Food quality and safety are major concerns for European citizens and it is great to see relevant new results coming out of EU-funded research” said European Science and Research Commissioner Janez Potocnik. “Basing decisions about food on scientific evidence benefits consumers. Measures proposed by researchers from EU projects have been tested for validity and reliability and can be used on farms and in food production.”

Sugar not linked with diabetes risk

Fri, 08 Dec 2006 12:00:00 +0100

It has long been suspected that a high sugar diet over a long term period may lead to an increased risk of developing diabetes. But there has been little or no evidence to support this idea, with studies on the role of any aspect of the diet in the development of diabetes difficult to conduct.

TV viewing and physical inactivity independently associated with metabolic risk in children

Thu, 07 Dec 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Watching TV and level of activity in children appear to be associated independently of each other with risk factors that may influence the chance that children have of developing metabolic diseases (e.g., diabetes) and cardiovascular diseases in later life.

Underweight women at greater risk of miscarriage - but having a healthy diet and reducing stress when pregnant may lower risk.

Thu, 30 Nov 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Women who have a low body mass index before they become pregnant are 72% more likely to suffer a miscarriage in the first three months of pregnancy, but can reduce their risk significantly by taking supplements and eating fresh fruit and vegetables, according to study findings published online today.

Low impact aerobic exercise reduces fatigue in auto-immune conditions says multi-study review

Wed, 29 Nov 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Low impact aerobic exercise, such as walking and cycling, can effectively reduce fatigue in adults with chronic auto-immune conditions, according to a research review in the latest issue of the UK-based Journal of Advanced Nursing.

76% of workers older than 60 years of age are overweight or obese

Wed, 22 Nov 2006 12:00:00 +0100

76% of workers older than 60 years of age are overweight or obese. However, less than one third of those 40 years of age and younger suffer these health issues.

Can we prevent type 1 diabetes by modifying infant nutrition?

Mon, 20 Nov 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Type 1 diabetes is a growing health problem among European children. European data indicate that the disease incidence has increased five- to six-fold among children under the age of 15 years after World War II, and there are no signs that the increase in incidence is levelling off.

Diet may help prevent allergies and asthma

Fri, 17 Nov 2006 12:00:00 +0100

A recent publication from the Global Allergy and Asthma European Network (GA²LEN) provides new insights into the role that diet may play in the development of allergies, especially in children. The work suggests that the significant changes in European diets over the past 20-40 years may have contributed to the increased incidence of allergic diseases in both children and adults seen over this period.

Commission presents Eurobarometer on Health, Food and Nutrition

Thu, 09 Nov 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Most Europeans consider themselves to be in good health, but 38% feel they are overweight, according to the results of the latest Eurobarometer on Health, Food and Nutrition presented by the European Commission today. The survey, which reveals that 95% of EU citizens agree that obesity is harmful for health, addresses the health and physical characteristics of Europeans, their diet and general eating habits, problems related to being overweight, and their physical activity levels. Eating more vegetables and less fat are the most frequent changes that Europeans say they are introducing in their eating habits. However, most respondents report feeling trapped in a sedentary life that restricts their attempts to lead a healthy lifestyle. Less than 30% of Europeans carry out “intensive” physical activity on a regular basis. Most Europeans (85%) feel public authorities should play a stronger role in fighting obesity. Nine out of ten Europeans feel that marketing and advertising influence children in their food and drink choices.

EFSA recommendations on the prevention and reduction of animal diseases transmissible to humans (zoonoses)

Thu, 09 Nov 2006 12:00:00 +0100

At the end of last year the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) published its first annual report1 on infectious diseases transmissible from animals to humans (zoonoses) which affect over 380,000 EU citizens per year. Based on this report, at the request of the Council of Ministers of the European Union (EU), EFSA has now for the first time set out a series of scientific conclusions and recommendations and risk communications initiatives to prevent and reduce zoonotic diseases in the EU. The Authority has also identified aspects of the zoonoses reporting system that should be improved.

New report shows chronic diseases threatening economies of developing and developed countries

Tue, 07 Nov 2006 12:00:00 +0100

A new report from the Oxford Health Alliance (OxHA) demonstrates that chronic diseases - heart and lung disease, cancer and diabetes - are having a negative economic impact on both the developed and developing world and should thus be adequately addressed by domestic and international policy makers.

Energy cost of walking: Over 70s use a third more energy than young

Mon, 06 Nov 2006 12:00:00 +0100

The human body is like a car: it becomes more gas-guzzling with age. That's according to scientists at Manchester Metropolitan University who observed that active pensioners may not be getting enough calories to cope with increased "fuel loss".

Fatty fish may protect against prostate cancer

Tue, 31 Oct 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Men who eat a lot of fatty fish run a lower risk of prostate cancer, concludes a new research paper from Karolinska Institutet. The effect is likely to be attributable to the abundance of omega-3 fatty acids, although there is also a hereditary factor.

Microwave pre-cooking of chips reduces cancer chemicals

Fri, 27 Oct 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Microwaving your chips before you fry them reduces the levels of a cancer-causing substance, reveal findings published today in the SCI’s Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture.

Fish benefits outweigh risks, conclude two studies

Wed, 18 Oct 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Two new studies published in the US this week seek to blow out of the water fears that people who regularly consumer seafood are putting themselves at risk due to methylmercury, PCB and dioxin contamination. Rather, the benefits of regular fish consumption on heart disease risk and neurodevelopment were seen to outweigh the risks.

New study gives further hope that vitamin D can help to fight breast cancer

Mon, 16 Oct 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Vitamin D may help curb breast cancer progression, according to a study published today in the Journal of Clinical Pathology. The authors, from Imperial College London, measured the levels of vitamin D in the blood serum of 279 women with invasive breast cancer. The disease was in its early stages in 204 of the women, and advanced in the remaining 75.

The dietary history locked up in strands of hair can help diagnose eating disorders

Thu, 12 Oct 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Women with eating disorders often cannot recognise their problem, or attempt to disguise it. This makes diagnosis and treatment very difficult. But newly published research from Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry shows that analysing the carbon and nitrogen bound into hair fibres can determine whether a person does indeed have an eating disorder.

Gain Weight, Lose Brain Power?

Tue, 10 Oct 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Add another hazard to the pitfalls of being overweight -- a few extra pounds might reduce your brainpower. According to a new French study, heftier people score lower on cognitive tests, even when factors such as education level are taken into account.

Eating Out – the healthier way

Mon, 09 Oct 2006 12:00:00 +0100

For many Europeans who are too busy to shop or cook, an increasing number of meals are being eaten or prepared outside the home. Perhaps breakfast is grabbed on the way to work, lunch is taken at the local café, dinner is a take-away or at a restaurant. The more you eat out, the more important it becomes to choose wisely from the menu in order to stay on track with an overall healthy diet. Here are a few practical tips to help you…

It's time to tackle childhood obesity (1/4)

Mon, 09 Oct 2006 12:00:00 +0100

As levels of overweight and obesity in European children continue to rise, it is generally agreed that preventive action is needed urgently. However, there is still much debate over when and how to introduce interventions and what precise measures should be used. Here are some of the considerations

Understanding ingredients

Mon, 09 Oct 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Consumers like to know what is in their food. They may wish to avoid certain ingredients for a variety of reasons. In Europe, nearly all pre-packaged food must be labelled according to EU law. However, the ingredient labelling terminology may not always be clear to the consumer and for some consumers interpretation of the labelled ingredients is a problem.

Black tea can soothe away stress

Wed, 04 Oct 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Daily cups of tea can help you recover more quickly from the stresses of everyday life, according to a new study by UCL (University College London) researchers. New scientific evidence shows that black tea has an effect on stress hormone levels in the body. The study, published in the journal Psychopharmacology, found that people who drank tea were able to de-stress more quickly than those who drank a fake tea substitute.

Gaining Weight in Between Pregnancies Could Lead to Pregnancy Complications

Fri, 29 Sep 2006 12:00:00 +0100

A new large-scale study from researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston and the Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, Sweden, found that an increase in body mass index (BMI) between first and second pregnancies was associated with adverse outcomes. The findings support for the first time a possible causal relationship between obesity and pregnancy complications, and are published in The Lancet.

Fatty fish may protect against cancer

Wed, 20 Sep 2006 12:00:00 +0100

If you want to avoid cancer of the kidneys, a new major study from Karolinska Institutet in Sweden shows that eating salmon or other kinds of fatty fish a few times a month would be one good way to go about it.

"No time to exercise" is no excuse

Mon, 18 Sep 2006 12:00:00 +0100

A new study, published in The Journal of Physiology, shows that short bursts of very intense exercise — equivalent to only a few minutes per day — can produce the same results as traditional endurance training.

Commission presents results of consultation on healthy diets and physical activity

Mon, 11 Sep 2006 12:00:00 +0100

The Commission today presents the results of a public consultation on promoting healthy diets and physical activity, with a focus on the prevention of overweight, obesity and chronic diseases. With around 14 million children in Europe currently overweight, of which more than 3 million are obese, this is now an urgent public health issue requiring co-ordinated action at EU level, as well as within Member States.

Appetite – it’s a brain thing

Thu, 07 Sep 2006 12:00:00 +0100

The regulation of body weight and energy balance in animals depends on the central nervous system capacity to read the body’s metabolic state and respond accordingly. But how does the brain process and integrate information to regulate feeding behaviour in order to sustain the energetic needs of the organism? In an article now published on the journal "Neuron", scientists from the US and Portugal study the brain activity of rats during a feeding cycle - consisting of an episode of hunger, satiety and hunger again - and found that, while individual neurons respond to parts of the cycle, the pooled activity of the neurons in entire brain areas is always high throughout hunger, diminishing after the animal is fed and satiated, and again increases when the animal is hungry again, a variation that most probably underlies the activation of the mechanism associated with feeding motivation in these animals.

How big is the energy gap in obesity? Top expert warns of public misunderstanding

Thu, 07 Sep 2006 12:00:00 +0100

The oversimplification of the “energy-in/energy out” equation is generating a fundamental public misunderstanding of the challenges of obesity, an eminent expert has warned at the International Congress on Obesity in Sydney today.

Lack of outdoor play is health time bomb for children

Tue, 15 Aug 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Unless more suitable outdoor play opportunities are provided for children and young people, a physical and mental illness time bomb is likely to explode, an international conference in Bristol was told.

Are you a little low? Failure to match energy intake with requirements is a possible cause of that ‘low blood sugar’ feeling.

Mon, 14 Aug 2006 12:00:00 +0100

As many as one third of women experience symptoms which they believe are caused by low blood glucose (sugar), according to a recent survey conducted in Nottinghamshire (1). The symptoms of such low blood glucose (or hypoglycaemia, as it is medically termed), include: irritability; faintness; tremor; hunger and anxiety.

Waist-hip ratio could be used to replace body mass index as indicator of mortality risk in older people

Mon, 07 Aug 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Older people with high waist-hip ratios (WHRs) have a higher mortality risk than those with a high body mass index, or BMI, a new study reveals

An energy-based approach to nutrition information on food labels

Fri, 04 Aug 2006 12:00:00 +0100

The European Food Information Council: Interview with Robert Madelin, DG SANCO

Fri, 04 Aug 2006 12:00:00 +0100

More information about this podcast

In this interview with EUFIC's Director General, Dr. Josephine Wills, Robert Madelin explains the important role that the EU Platform for Action on Diet, Physical Activity and Health plays in the overall Public Health strategy for Europe.

Big kids are getting too big

Tue, 01 Aug 2006 12:00:00 +0100

The epidemic of obesity in young children has been far worse in the tallest, fastest growing young children, according to new research published in The International Journal of Obesity today (1 August 2006).

Diet and risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease – the results of the largest ever dietary intervention trial

Wed, 19 Jul 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Dietary guidelines say that we should eat fat in moderation and include lots of fruit, vegetables and grains in our meals. The recent results of the largest ever dietary intervention trial did not demonstrate a beneficial effect of such recommendations on the risk of developing cancer and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Or did it? In reality, the interpretation of this milestone study needs nuanced careful interpretation.

Food safety: perception of risk amongst European consumers

Wed, 19 Jul 2006 12:00:00 +0100

An understanding of risk perception in consumers is important for the development of effective communication strategies in respect of health risk issues. The recently published Eurobarometer report on ‘Risk Issues’ provides valuable insights on how European consumers perceive food safety risks, in particular, and on how they respond to information given about such risks.

Health benefits of cocoa flavonoids

Wed, 19 Jul 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Historical evidence points to the use of cocoa in a medicinal capacity for over two thousand years, since the time of the ancient Mayan and Aztec civilisations and following its introduction to Europe in the Middle Ages. Over 100 medicinal uses for cocoa and chocolate have been noted, including the treatment of fatigue, emaciation, fever, angina and heart pain, anaemia, shortness of breath, and kidney and bowel complaints, but virtually no adequate scientific data existed to substantiate their effectiveness in the prevention or treatment of such problems. Even today, some indigenous populations of Central and South America use various components of the cocoa tree in the preparation of their traditional medicines.

New website for the European Food Information Council

Sat, 15 Jul 2006 12:00:00 +0100

To make the good even better the European Food Information Council has completely revamped its website, www.eufic.org. Reaching in excess of 350,000 visitors a month and voted one of the top 5 websites for credible, nutritional information by the British Broadcasting Corporation’s (BBC) Good Food magazine in March 2006, the previous site was an established reference. Today, thanks to valuable user insights, the new state-of-the-art site improves on this by offering over 4,000 pages of scientifically reviewed information that guides and informs audiences on food safety as well as health and nutrition in a smart and user-friendly way.

Exercise can help to control type 2 diabetes

Thu, 13 Jul 2006 12:00:00 +0100

People with type 2 diabetes mellitus who perform regular exercise improve their blood sugar control and have reduced body fat. This reduction in fat occurs even if they don’t loose weight, suggesting that some of the fat may have been replaced by muscle.

Taking calcium supplements during pregnancy may halve the risk of pre-eclampsia

Thu, 13 Jul 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Worldwide pre-eclampsia accounts for 40,000 maternal deaths a year and can trigger premature birth which is extremely dangerous for the child. A Cochrane Review of trials found that taking calcium supplements during pregnancy is a safe and cheap means of reducing the risk of pre-eclampsia.

Commission presents results of Eurobarometer on Avian Flu

Fri, 07 Jul 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Europeans are well informed about avian influenza and have confidence in the actions of EU and national authorities to tackle it, but significant gaps in knowledge remain about the risks, according to a special Eurobarometer survey on avian influenza published today by the Commission and conducted in March and April. Most respondents (between 70% and 80% according to the type of measures) correctly identified specific surveillance, control and eradication measures taken to prevent and contain avian flu outbreaks, and 70% of respondents agree that EU public authorities are guided in their actions by genuine concern about the health of European citizens. However, the survey reveals that a significant percentage of Europeans remain unsure about certain basic facts about avian flu. For example, 28% do not know that avian flu cannot be transmitted through properly cooked eggs and poultry meat. Most EU citizens replied that they had not reduced their consumption of poultry products, and those that did indicated they had done so only as a precaution.

Body measures and colon cancer risk – new results from the EPIC study

Tue, 04 Jul 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Men and women with a large waist circumference and a large waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) have an increased risk of developing colon cancer. In contrast, only in men is a high body mass index (BMI) clearly associated with a higher colon cancer risk. However, there is no relation between the body measures of the investigation and rectal cancer risk. These results from the European-wide EPIC study (European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition) were published on July 5th by Tobias Pischon of the German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbrücke (DIfE) and his colleagues in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.

E-numbers

Thu, 29 Jun 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Managing sweetness

Wed, 28 Jun 2006 12:00:00 +0100

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People are born liking the sensation of sweetness. At a scientific conference in Brussels in June 2006, Dr. Josephine Wills asked a number of European scientists how people can manage sweetness as part of a healthy diet.

Q&A about aspartame

Wed, 28 Jun 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Available for almost 25 years, aspartame is approved for use by the general population in 130 countries around the world. Aspartame is one of the most thoroughly tested food additives in history with a comprehensive battery of studies done in humans and animals, including toxicity and carcinogenicity studies. All demonstrated that aspartame was safe for human consumption. Safety authorities have regularly reviewed new studies and they have always reconfirmed aspartame’s safety. Recently, aspartame has been again the subject of a public controversy after a new study was published linking the sweetener with a raised incidence of some tumours in rats. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) acknowledged to consider the new findings and ordered a review of aspartame’s safety, which confirmed the safety of the product.

Quo vadis food risk communication?

Fri, 23 Jun 2006 12:00:00 +0100

The field of risk communication is going through a period of change. The area, having evolved from studies of public perceptions associated with nuclear power plants, noxious chemical facilities and crisis management issues, has now become closely intertwined with food. Food issues, be they associated with genetically modified organisms, acrylamide and whether fried foods are indeed safe to eat, or food safety issues in general, are key topics of discussion at international risk communication meetings at the present time and are gaining prominence in media and policy debates.

10 healthy eating tips for kids

Tue, 13 Jun 2006 12:00:00 +0100

The key to a healthy and wealthy diet is variety, moderation and physical activity. EUFIC spells out 10 basic tips that will help children take healthy decisions at meal times.

10 tips to healthy eating