A piece of Chocolate a Day to Keep the Doctor Away?

April 2010

Good news for chocolate lovers.  A recent study by German researchers found that a small amount of chocolate every day reduced the risk of heart attack or stroke by almost 40%. 

However, researchers warn that consuming large amounts of chocolate could lead to weight gain which was a risk factor for heart disease and stroke.   The amount of chocolate consumed for the study was just 6g, or one small square of dark chocolate.

Read more here

 

Unhealthy diet related to female depression

Jan 2010

 Recent research from Melbourne University found that mood disorders such as depression were more common in women who had diets high in processed and refined foods that were high in fat.

On the other hand, those who ate a healthy diet containing vegetables, fruits andw holegrain foods were 30% less likely to suffer from depression and anxiety disorders.

 Another good reason to eat well!

Read more of the study here


Coffee could boost gut health 

   Moderate coffee consumption has been found to boost numbers of beneficial bacteria in the gut.  The study had participants drink three cups of instant coffee a day, which resulted in increased numbers of  Bifidobacterium spp.  Read more here

Calcium and Vitamin D may help protect against Diabetes


 

 An increased intake of calcium and vitamin D may help protect against Diabetes by improving insulin levels, according to research published in the Journal of Nutrition.  Because diabetes is worldwide epidemic, more research in this area may be valuable in helping combating the problem.

Read more about the research here