Aug 12, 2020, 15:56 PM by Jessica R. Biesiekierski, PhD, RNutr,

In 2005, Monash University in Australia proposed a hypothesis that described grouping dietary short-chain carbohydrates that are slowly absorbed in the small intestine or are non-digestible due to inactivity or lack of enzymes, for an approach in the management of symptoms in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Since then, there has been a considerable amount of research across the world aimed at understanding naturally occurring fermentable oligosaccharide, disaccharide, monosaccharide, and polyols (FODMAPs), including efficacy, mechanisms, risks, and applications.

Aug 12, 2020, 15:56 PM by Kate Scarlata, MPH, RDN, LDN,

Saccharides can be broken into different types of carbohydrates depending on their chain length. FODMAPs are small-chain carbohydrates that are commonly malabsorbed in the small intestine and can trigger digestive distress in those who experience visceral hypersensitivity (a sensitive gut), such as in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is important to note that foods containing FODMAPs can be healthy, do not cause painful gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms in those with a healthy gut, and should be enjoyed liberally in those who can tolerate them.

Jun 2, 2020, 16:34 PM by Mark Messina, PhD, MS,

Want to hear more about fertility factors from the author of our lead article, Mark Messina, PhD, MS?

Jun 2, 2020, 16:34 PM by Mark Messina, PhD, MS,

The fact that concerns have been raised about soy adversely impacting both male and female fertility seems inconsistent with the knowledge that China is the birthplace of the soybean,1 foods made from soybeans have been consumed there for centuries,1 and the current population of China is approximately 1.4 billion.

Jun 2, 2020, 16:34 PM by Elizabeth Ward, MS, RD,

A growing body of evidence suggests what women eat influences conception and pregnancy outcomes. While women become pregnant on a variety of diets, nutri­ent-rich, plant-based eating patterns are associated with a greater likelihood for conception. In the Nurses’ Health Study II, women who ate more of certain foods and sup­plements experienced a lower rate of ovulatory disorder infertility, one of the leading causes of infertility in wom­en. Regardless of weight, age, and parity, consuming more of these items seemed beneficial: vegetable protein sourc­es, monounsaturated fats rather than trans fats, low gly­cemic carbohydrates, full-fat dairy foods, multivitamins, iron from plant foods, and from dietary supplements that contain iron.

May 18, 2020, 14:30 PM by Taulant Muka, MD, MPH, PhD,

Want to hear more about healthy aging from the author of our lead article, Taulant Muka? Join us for a free webinar at 9:00 a.m. Central on July 8, 2020.

May 18, 2020, 14:30 PM by Taulant Muka, MD, MPH, PhD,

Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) show that the average life expectancy on a global level increased by 5.5 years between 2000 and 2016, accounting for the fastest increase since the 1960s. By 2050, one in 4 persons living in Europe and North America could be aged 65 or over, based on United Nations’ (UN) reports.

May 18, 2020, 14:30 PM by Mark Messina, PhD, MS,

Life expectancy has risen steadily due to innovations in medicine and improved living standards. With an extended lifespan, it is increasingly important to understand how these additional years of life can be spent in good health. As discussed by Oschwald et al., cognitive health is of high importance for aging healthily with a substantial impact on one’s ability to complete tasks of independent living such as medication adherence, telephone use, financial management, or nutritional choices.

May 18, 2020, 14:30 PM by Sharon Palmer, MS, RDN,

Traditional soyfoods, such as tempeh, tofu, edamame, soynuts, and soymilk are good tasting, nutrient dense foods that may offer health benefits, plus, they are budget-friendly, easy to use, and versatile. With so many reasons to love soy, why not put it into practice by including a taste of soy in your meals every single week? In addition to health bonuses, turning to this healthful, sustainable plant protein more often can help cut your environmental footprint. Get started with these top 5 tips.

Jan 2, 2020, 14:37 PM by Virginia Messina, MPH, RD,

Want to hear more about the role of soyfoods in plant-based diets from the authors of our lead article, Virginia Messina, MPH, RD, and Mark Messina, PhD, MS?

Dec 26, 2019, 16:24 PM by Sue Klapholz, MD, PhD

Food companies utilize soy protein as an ingredient to increase the plant protein content in foods. One such company, Impossible Foods, uses soy as the main source of protein in its Impossible Burger. In addition, the Impossible Burger contains a unique ingredient called soy leghemoglobin (LegH), which is responsible for much of its meaty flavor.

Dec 26, 2019, 16:22 PM by Taylor Wolfram, MS, RDN, LDN

Many people are embracing the consumption of plant-based foods, chiefly plant protein alternatives, and approximately 3% of Americans are vegetarian or vegan. While it is possible to attain all essential nutrients on a vegetarian or vegan diet, some planning and supplementation are likely required.

Dec 26, 2019, 16:20 PM by Virginia Messina, MPH, RD,

Soyfoods can contribute valuable nutrition to plant-based diets, such as flexitarian, vegetarian and vegan, while also providing important health benefits. They can be important sources of fiber, protein, essential fats, and minerals including calcium, iron, and potassium. In addition to their rich nutrient profile, soyfoods provide dietary components, such as isoflavones, which are found in negligible amounts in other plant foods.

Aug 26, 2019, 19:02 PM by Mark Messina, PhD, MS,

The U.S. Food Allergen Labeling & Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) mandates labeling of all ingredients derived from commonly allergenic foods. In the U.S., 8 foods, commonly referred to as the Big 8, have been identified as the most frequent human food allergens; accounting for 90% of food allergic reactions among Americans. These foods are milk, eggs, fish, crustacea, wheat, peanuts, tree nuts, and soy. However, the prevalence of allergy for each of these foods varies markedly. North American surveys published over the past 10 years show that among the Big 8, the prevalence of soy allergy is lower than the prevalence of the other 7 foods.

Aug 26, 2019, 19:00 PM by Mark Messina, PhD, MS,

Soy protein is widely used by the food industry for its functional benefits such as enhancing moisture retention. For this reason, considerable diligence is required by those who are allergic to soy protein because it is present in many commonly consumed foods. Fortunately, this diligence is required by relatively few individuals as overall, surveys indicate that the prevalence of soy allergy is lowest among the Big 8 food allergens.

Aug 26, 2019, 18:58 PM by Carina Venter, PhD, RD,

Food allergies (FA) are commonly reported by children and adults. The true prevalence of FA is difficult to determine due to the heterogeneity of immunological presentations (symptoms) and foods involved. The diagnostic work-up also differs for each type of FA. No 2 studies of FA prevalence have used the same methodology. Food challenges or food reintroduction following a period of avoidance is the gold standard for the diagnosis of FA. However, only a minority of studies reporting on FA prevalence have utilized this process as an outcome measure. A meta-analysis of 51 studies showed that self-reported FA varied between 3% and 35%, while confirmed FA ranged from 1% to 10.8% based on oral food challenges, including studies on both children and adults, across the world. In addition to leading to incorrect prevalence rates, overreporting of FA has many negative effects on an individual and global level such as unnecessary dietary restrictions and labeling laws. Most importantly, however, overreporting of FA may cause some who are truly allergic to not be taken seriously.

Jul 25, 2019, 19:35 PM by Leah McGrath, RDN, LDN (@LeahMcGrathRDN)

When the typical shopper strolls -- or rushes -- down the aisles in their supermarket, they may notice a myriad of colors and labels on packaged items. The color of packaging may lead some to think a certain food item is healthy because the packaging is green, or perhaps they are attracted to a fun snack in a red or orange package. Package claims like “low fat,” “plant-based,” “organic,” and “non-GMO” abound.

Jul 25, 2019, 19:32 PM by Beth Smolko, DMSc, PA-C

In clinical practice, I am often asked about the nutritional value of non-dairy plant milks (NDPMs). This question usually comes up during office visits when the parents have religious or dietary preferences which exclude dairy or when toddlers and young children have cow’s milk protein allergy or lactose intolerance. Although many people are indeed lactose intolerant, some research shows that even those with this condition can tolerate some milk as long as intake is spread throughout the day. Fortunately, there have been many studies and comprehensive reviews over the past few years comparing the nutritional value of NDPMs with cow’s milk that can be of assistance to clinicians in providing patients and their families with the best evidence-based guidance.

Jul 25, 2019, 19:30 PM by Connie Liakos, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD,

The soybean is a nutrient-dense food that offers many health benefits that can contribute to the growth and development of children. Soyfoods can contribute several important nutrients to the diets of children such as protein, essential fatty acids, calcium, potassium, and folate.

Feb 26, 2019, 16:00 PM by Lisa Kelly, MPH, RDN

In November, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized the use of a qualified health claim citing that oils high in oleic acid, such as high oleic soybean oil, may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.