We’re all subjects in a massive experiment. Humans have created about 80,000 synthetic industrial compounds — including plastics, the flame retardants that cover our sofas, and pesticides. These compounds have structures that are not commonly seen in nature and present a risk to our health. Everybody on the planet is exposed. It’s important to understand what these substances … Read more
Liquid sugar, such as in sodas, energy drinks and sports drinks, is the leading single source of added sugar in the American diet, representing 36% of the added sugar we consume. Research suggests that our bodies process liquid sugar differently than sugar in foods, especially those containing fiber. Scientists argue that when you eat an apple (for … Read more
Following your gut takes on a whole new meaning as scientists find relationships between the brain and gut bacteria. The next frontier of medicine isn’t in the depths of an Amazon jungle or in an air-conditioned lab; it’s in the rich and mysterious bacterial swamp of your gut. Long viewed as an enemy within, bacteria … Read more
The Mediterranean diet has become a darling of medical researchers. It’s known for its veggies and grains, limited amounts of meat, and a good helping of olive oil. Researchers believe that olive oil is the key to the superior health benefits of the Mediterranean diet. “The health benefits of olive oil are 99% related to … Read more
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Thirdhand smoke is a new frontier, and UC’s Tobacco-Related Disease Research Program has assembled a group of investigators, including at LBNL and UCSF, to study the health risks caused by the remnants of cigarette smoke. “Third hand smoke is what you smell when you go into a hotel room where people have been smoking or … Read more