A comprehensive review of clinical trials involving a wide range of popular dietary supplements has found that with the exception of vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, there is little evidence to support their use in Western countries by the general population.Dietary supplements are big business, with around half of the Australian population using at least one type per year; … [Read more...] about Dietary supplements have few benefits for most people
Ginkgo biloba no boost for a failing mind
Yet another study has found that ginkgo biloba offers few benefits in protecting the mind against the ravages of Alzheimer’s disease, leading researchers to claim that this is the final nail in the coffin for this popular memory boosting supplementThe popular herbal supplement ginkgo biloba has been promoted for many years as a ‘brain booster’ with common claims of … [Read more...] about Ginkgo biloba no boost for a failing mind
What drives us to eat more?
It is the question that underpins the search to find an answer to the obesity problem: what drives us to eat? No matter what a person’s genetic profile, environment or activity levels, eating more food than what the body needs to meet its energy demands results in just one outcome: weight gain.Pervasive food marketing and 24 hour access to cheap, energy-dense food are … [Read more...] about What drives us to eat more?
Water overload in sport: who is at risk?
Is it possible to drink too much water during endurance exercise? The answer is definitely 'yes'. Water overload (hyponatremia) is a potentially life-threatening condition. Read on to learn who is at risk and what you can do to prevent it.Hyponatremia occurs when the sodium concentration in the blood drops to a dangerously low level. Sodium serves an important role in the … [Read more...] about Water overload in sport: who is at risk?
Diet drinks can help with weight loss
In an important research study just published in the high impact American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, researchers have confirmed that switching from soft drinks in favour of diet drinks or water is an effective way to lose weight.Sugar-laden soft drinks have been consistently linked to weight gain. Both the kilojoule content and also the fact that it comes in a liquid … [Read more...] about Diet drinks can help with weight loss
Counting steps to increase physical activity
A study comparing how many steps people take each day in different countries has given some insight into what role walking plays in explaining the obesity problem. Counting steps may just be the solution to get people moving more.With so much focus on the food and dieting side of the weight-loss equation, the importance of increasing activity sometimes gets lost. Because of … [Read more...] about Counting steps to increase physical activity