Author: Catherine

A 10-year study of nearly 10,000 women aged 65 and older found that regular tea drinkers had slightly higher hip bone mineral density than women who did not drink tea, according to a study published in the journal Nutrients and reported by ScienceDaily. Researchers at Flinders University, using data from the long-running Study of Osteoporotic Fractures, found the difference was modest but statistically significant across the decade of follow-up. Moderate coffee intake of two to three cups a day appeared neutral for bone health, while drinking more than five cups daily was linked to lower hip bone density. The researchers said compounds in tea called catechins may support the cells that build bone, though the study shows only an association and does not prove that tea causes stronger bones....

A 12-week University of Toronto study found that adults who added three daily servings of full-fat dairy to a whole-food diet showed no meaningful increase in weight, body fat, or cholesterol, along with modest improvements in blood pressure, according to ScienceDaily. The 74-participant trial, published in The Journal of Nutrition, also found the dairy servings increased participants' intake of calcium, protein, and vitamin D. Lead researcher Harvey Anderson, a professor of nutritional sciences, said those who had three daily dairy servings showed no adverse cholesterol, lipid, or insulin resistance markers.

A new Harvard study is challenging the blanket rule that ultra-processed foods (UPFs) should be avoided. Presented at the American Society for Nutrition's annual meeting, the research tracked over 200,000 people and found that overall diet quality matters more than processing level alone. Some UPFs—like fortified cereals, canned beans, and plant-based milks—were linked to lower risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes, while minimally processed foods like red meat, coconut oil, and white rice fared worse. Nutritionists say the findings reflect what many have long argued: the UPF conversation is too black-and-white. A diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can still include some processed foods without harm. Read the full report from The Times.

Rather than relying on supplements, nutrition experts suggest that everyday foods can naturally support collagen production in the body. Collagen, a key protein responsible for skin elasticity and structure, declines with age due to factors like diet, stress, and environmental exposure. According to a recent report by MSN, vitamin C-rich foods such as citrus fruits and berries play a critical role in collagen synthesis. Protein sources like eggs, fish, and legumes provide essential amino acids, while bone broth offers collagen peptides. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish or flaxseeds help maintain skin hydration, and minerals like zinc and copper—found in seeds and nuts—support skin repair and regeneration.