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Vitamins, minerals & phytonutrients
Understanding Food
Today's consumers in Europe can benefit from an unprecedented variety of food and food products, as well as an unparalleled amount of information about food, to help ensure that diets are nutritious. In particular, many modern food labels provide detailed information to help consumers understand the nutritional content of the foods they purchase. As a result, consumers are better able to make informed decisions with regard to which foods, and in what qu ... Read more
Taking folic acid supplements for pregnancy linked to child’s speech development
The benefits of taking folic acid supplements before and during pregnancy may extend beyond birth defects and influence child language development, suggests a study of a Norwegian cohort, published by a team of European and North American researchers. Read more
Low vitamin D levels among European adolescents
Sub-optimal vitamin D levels are highly prevalent among European adolescents, according to a recent study published in the British Journal of Nutrition. Read more
Plant sterols lower bad cholesterol dose-dependently
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. Read more
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Food fortification can be used to increase the micronutrient content of foods or to replace nutrients lost in food processing, thus playing a valuable role in preventing dietary deficiencies. We look at how fortification can benefit both individuals and population groups, whilst remaining an area of controversy.
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Vitamin D has recently been hitting the headlines in Europe, highlighting the need for action to ensure that Europeans have enough vitamin D. But how should this be obtained? Is diet and sunshine enough, or do we need a bit of extra help?
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When we consume a food or drink, the nutrients contained are released from the matrix, absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to their respective target tissues. However, not all nutrients can be utilised to the same extent. In other words, they differ in their bioavailability. Understanding nutrient bioavailability helps optimise diets and set appropriate nutrient recommendations.
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Vegetable consumption is an important component of a healthy diet; as one of the main food groups vegetable provide fibre, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. However, motivating young children to increase their intake from this food group often presents a challenge. Here are some suggestions what parents can do.
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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.
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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?
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Energy Balance
With only some basic data, the energy balance calculator defines your Body Mass Index (BMI), your daily energy requirements and if you are at risk for certain diseases.
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