Omega-3 for joint pain
United Kingdom researchers have found that a diet rich in omega-3, from fish or flax oil, could significantly reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis. Guinea pigs fed an omega-3-rich diet reduced the disease by 50 percent, compared to guinea pigs fed a standard diet. One researcher said there is evidence that omega-3 not only helps prevent the disease, but influences the biochemistry of osteoarthritis and slows its progression. Further studies will be conducted to confirm the effects in human osteoarthritis.
From: www.nutraingredients.com
October 19, 2011
Energy in grass
USDA-ARS scientists have developed the use of near-infrared sensing (NIRS) to determine switchgrass value for biorefining. Using NIRS, 20 switchgrass components can be evaluated, such as cell wall sugars, lignin and soluble sugars. Results can be used to determine 13 traits, including ethanol yield.
Although NIRS is already used on corn, this is the first NIRS technology developed to predict ethanol yields of grasses. Researchers say the technology can also be used by breeders and agronomists who are creating cultivars and developing management practices to maximize yields.
From: USDA-ARS
August 2011
Super broccoli for the heart
A new broccoli breed that can help fight heart disease has been unveiled by British scientists at the Institute for Food Research. Broccoli was bred to contain two to three times the normal amount of glucoraphanin, the nutrient believed to help prevent heart disease by breaking down fat in the body.
The super broccoli is on sale in select stores in the United States and Europe. Scientists say it should taste slightly sweeter than conventional broccoli.
From: The Associated Press
October 26, 2011
Algae ready for take-off
South Dakota State University researchers and collaborators are developing ways to use blue-green algae on Earth and in space. They are working on methods to produce oxygen, chemicals, fuel and cleaned water from carbon dioxide, wastewater and sunlight. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration awarded a grant to help fund this project.
From: Biorefining Magazine
October 3, 2011
Dairy cuts belly fat
Dairy products can help cut belly fat, McMaster University researchers in Canada have found. After a 16-week study of 90 women, the researchers reported that overweight women, who accompanied their exercise program with a high-protein and high-dairy diet, lost more abdominal fat than those with a low-dairy diet.
From: www.dairyherd.com
September 13, 2011
