Widespread Benefits from Omega-3s Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids are known for their potential heart health benefits, but evidence of other benefits continues to accumulate. Fruit and Vegetable Intake Researchers explored increasing fruit and vegetable intake in people with an already high consumption of fruits and vegetables. Sugary Drinks and Heart Disease Regular consumption of sugary beverages put women at a higher risk for coronary heart disease. Omega-3s and Reduced Risk of CVD Researchers sought a less expensive and time-consuming means of direct measurement of tissue fatty acid concentrations. Lean with a Protein Researchers have identified a gene that plays a critical regulatory role in the process of converting dietary carbohydrates to fat. Omegas as Part of Post-Op Nutritional supplements rich in Omega-3 fatty acids can have a significantly positive impact on patients undergoing surgery for esophageal cancer. Fruit and Vegetables Versus Cancer and Heart Disease A diet high in fruit and vegetables may protect against cancer and heart disease and could be equivalent to taking a low dose of aspirin every day.  Return to top ADA's Position on Functional Foods The ADA says fortified, enriched or enhanced foods can benefit a person's health when consumed as part of a varied diet, encourages further research and urges continued efforts to educate the public on such foods. Alarming Obesity Rates Among American Youngsters A new study says almost one in five American 4-year-olds is obese. Lack of Progress in Food Safety Rates of food-borne illnesses have remained roughly level since 2004, revealing what health officials and regulators say is an alarming lack of progress in reducing food safety risks. Youths Avoiding Restaurants Parents are opting to leave the kids at home, as young people cut back on restaurant visits. Soft Drinks Go Cold Adults are rapidly switching from calorie-laden soda to other, often lighter beverages. Beverage Consumption Overall consumption of distilled spirits, wine and beer rose in 2008; however, the rate of growth was less than recent years. Look for the Label An association between eating out and weight-related diseases has led to demands for nutritional labeling of restaurant foods. GM Foods in China A study investigated the likely acceptance of genetically modified foods by Chinese consumers. Safety of the Supermarket Although the majority of Americans believe foods in supermarkets are safe, the percentage who feel this way has decreased over the last five years. Antibiotic Concerns North of the Border Canadian farmers may be putting public health at risk through importing unapproved and untested antibiotics for use in livestock. Return to top