A micronutrient in human breast milk may provide significant benefit to developing newborn brains, according to new research that sheds light on the link between nutrition and brain health. Scientists looked at this sugar molecule in rodents and in human neurons. They said the micronutrient, called myo-inositol, may lead to improved infant formulas. “The current…  read on >  read on >

Some medications may not treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) as effectively if patients carry a lot of excess belly fat, , new research shows. IBD includes illnesses such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Researchers say using the wrong anti-inflammatory drug for these patients could mean lower rates of remission. “Even though biologic medications have…  read on >  read on >

Too little fiber in Mom’s diet during pregnancy may slow a baby’s mental development, Japanese research suggests. Animal studies have found that a low-fiber diet during pregnancy slows brain nerve function in offspring. The new study, published July 27 in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition, shows the same effect in humans. “Most pregnant women in…  read on >  read on >

Patients who get treatment for multiple sclerosis at the earliest signs of disease may have a lower risk of disability later, new research suggests. Among nearly 600 patients, there were lower odds of disability and progression among people diagnosed and treated within six months of symptoms onset, researchers report in their new study, published recently…  read on >  read on >

People who have psoriasis may want to get their vitamin D levels checked. New research suggests that blood levels of the so-called “sunshine vitamin” may affect the severity of their condition. In psoriasis, skin cells build up and form dry, itchy, sometimes painful patches. While synthetic vitamin D creams are an emerging therapy, the study…  read on >  read on >

If you’re drinking soy, oat or almond milk, you may not be getting the same nutrients as you would with a glass of cow’s milk. A new analysis of more than 200 plant-based milk alternatives found that few contain the calcium, vitamin D and protein that can be found in cow’s milk. Only 12% of…  read on >  read on >

More omega-3 fatty acids in your diet might prevent hearing loss as you age, researchers report. Low levels of the omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are linked to hearing loss in middle and old age, according to findings slated for presentation Monday at a meeting of the American Society for Nutrition, in Boston. Middle-aged…  read on >  read on >