Research Round-up: Carotenoid Intake; Pulses; Health Benefits of Raspberries

Carotenoid Intake Linked to Healthful Aging

Researchers from South Korea looked at data from 3,200 participants in the 1999-2002 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and found that high blood levels of carotenoids, specifically alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, and beta-cryptoxanthin (found in red, orange, and yellow plant foods) were significantly associated with longer telomeres by 1.76%, 2.22%, and 2.02% respectively. Compared to individuals with the lowest carotenoid levels, those with the highest levels had longer telomeres by 5-8%. Telomere length is a marker of biological aging, with the shorter length indicating aging.

—European Journal of Nutrition, January 2016

Pulses May Aid In Weight Loss

Including pulses, such as beans, lentils, and chickpeas, in your daily diet may help promote weight loss, according to a new meta-analysis. Canadian researchers collected data from 21 clinical studies and 940 adults for their analysis. When individuals incorporated one serving (132 grams/4.6 ounces) of pulses into their daily diet without making any other dietary changes they lost an average of 0.75 pounds over six weeks. The findings suggest simply adding pulses to your diet, even when diets are not calorically restricted, can help with weight loss.

—American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, March 2016

Raspberry Health Benefits

A comprehensive review of six studies supports a potential role for red raspberries in reducing the risk of metabolically based chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity and Alzheimer’s disease—all of which have metabolic, oxidative, and inflammatory links. Raspberries are high in polyphenols, especially ellagitannins and anthocyanins, which may play a role in their ability to protect against certain dis-eases.

—Advances in Nutrition, January 2016

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