Health and Me

Riya Baibhawi

Just Half Cup Of This Berry Can Boost Your Cognition, Memory

Have you ever wondered about the health benefits of those tiny blue bursts of flavour that you add to your smoothie or to your breakfast cereals? Blueberries are packed with <span>nutrients</span> and antioxidants that offer a range of benefits, particularly to your stomach and gut. Now, a new study has found that it has significant benefits to your intelligence and <span>cognition</span>, too.

The study published in <em>Nutrients</em> found that participants who ate just half a cup of blueberries a day for 12 weeks experienced improvements in learning, memory, executive function decision-making, planning, focus, task management, etc.

This is particularly noteworthy because executive function governs our ability to stay organized, make informed decisions, and follow through on tasks—skills that often begin to wane with age. It is incredible that something as simple and accessible as blueberries could influence these areas in just a matter of weeks.

Why? Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and other bioactive compounds (chemicals that promote good health). Specifically, blueberries are packed with anthocyanins, an antioxidant that improves metabolic function, increases cell-level energy production, and decreases inflammation.

These compounds are naturally occurring pigments that give blueberries their deep colour, and they do more than just look pretty—they work on a cellular level to reduce oxidative stress, which is one of the factors believed to contribute to age-related cognitive decline.

That’s especially important if you’re somewhat overweight. Generally speaking, metabolic disturbance accelerates in middle age and is a prominent risk factor for dementia. Unfortunately, those who are overweight or otherwise insulin-resistant have an elevated risk for future dementia.

So, for those trying to take proactive steps against cognitive decline, blueberries offer a simple, natural solution. Not a miracle cure—but an effective supplement to an overall healthy lifestyle. The demonstration of these benefits … suggests that ongoing <span>blueberry</span> supplementation may contribute to protection against cognitive decline when implemented early. Or in non-researcher-speak, half a cup of blueberries a day improved the average participant’s language skills, improved their short-term memory, and enhanced their decision-making, planning, and organisational skills.

As an added bonus, participants also experienced lower fasting insulin levels, which means their ability to process carbohydrates efficiently (an important aspect of overall metabolic health) had also improved.

Sounds too good to be true? Granted, blueberries aren’t magic. Genetics also matter. Beyond that, considerable research shows diet, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle make the biggest impact on improving — or at the very least maintaining — the effect of ageing on cognition and memory.

A healthy diet can reduce age-related cognitive decline and the risk of developing various neurodegenerative diseases.

Exercise can slow or even reverse the physical decay of your brain. Research shows exercise can increase the size of your hippocampus even in your 60’s and 70’s, helping to mitigate the impact of age-related memory loss.

As for lifestyle, insufficient sleep is associated with accelerated brain atrophy and impaired brain functional connectivity. Alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs directly impact the brain, causing it to age more rapidly, atrophy, and lose functioning ability.

So, yeah: If your diet sucks, you never exercise, and you smoke, drink, and don’t get enough sleep, blueberries are just a drop in the learning, memory, and executive function bucket.

Plus, adding one positive habit to your lifestyle may help you more easily add additional positive habits to your lifestyle. Psychologists call it the spillover effect: the way making one positive choice, no matter how small, inspires you to make other positive choices. The way focusing on improving one thing, no matter how small, will naturally and even effortlessly lead to making improvements in other areas.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

Blueberry

nutrients

Diet & Nutrition

Cognition

brain Health

Does It Really Work? Trials For Chemical Castration In UK Jails Raise Questions On It's Effectiveness

RSV Vaccine For Expecting Moms Cuts Risk Of Severe Lung Infections In Infants by 72%; Premature Babies To Be Vaccinated Before Winter

Artificial Dyes Set To Disappear From 90% Of U.S. Ice Cream By 2028

Nutrition

High-Fiber Dips You Can Make At Home For The Week

Weekend Warrior Exercises To Makeup For Stressful Week

Experiencing Headaches At Word? Natural Remedies To Try

Yoga Poses That Enhance Digestion

Health Benefits of Walking Backwards

No Eggs? Egg-Alternatives You Can Add To Your Diet

Savory And Smart Ways To Add Broccoli To Your Diet

Calorie Burning Habits That Can Help You Shed Extra Pounds

Yoga Poses That Can Help With Bloating

Fiber-Rich Oatmeal Dishes You Can Have For Breakfast

Signs You Must Visit A Doctor For Your Back Pain

Avocado Meal Prep Ideas To Increase Healthy Fat In Your Diet

Arm Exercises You Can Do At Home

Quick-Office Lunches That Can Keep You Full-Longer

How Increased Screen Time Affects Children's Health

Homemade Recipe To Make Protein-Rich Pancakes With Healthy Alternatives

Push-Up Variations You Can Do At Home

Common Mistakes Running Mistakes People Make

Low-Calorie Foods That Keep You Full For Long

Yoga Poses That Help You Get Rid Of Back Pain

Natural Ways To Increase Protein In Your Diet

Managing Excessive Daytime Sleepiness – Tips To Try

How Much Protein Is Too Much?

High Fiber Indian Foods You Should Try

10 Easy Ways To Boost Daily Fiber Intake

Adding Walnut Oil To Your Diet? Benefits You Should Know

Drinks That Soothe Headaches And Migraines

Waist Exercises For More Toned Belly

This Is How Stress Affects Your Heart

Does Digital ‘Brain Rot’ Really Affect Your Health?

Dishes With Fermented Foods To Eat For Your Gut Health

Yoga Poses That Stimulate Good Bowel Health

Weekend Warrior Exercises For Full Body Movement

Weekend Meal Prep Ideas That Will Last You A Weekend

Easy Homemade Healthy Dishes For Long Afternoons

Silent Walking: Mental Health Booster That Keeps You Fit

Dumbbell Exercises You Can Do At Home

These Foods Are Keeping You Awake At Night

Ways to Manage Sugar Cravings

Your Body Doesn’t Want You To Lose Weight – Here's It Resists

Have you ever wondered about the health benefits of those tiny blue bursts of flavour that you add to your smoothie or to your breakfast cereals? Blueberries are packed with nutrients and antioxidants that offer a range of benefits, particularly to your stomach and gut. Now, a new study has found that it has significant benefits to your intelligence and cognition, too.The study published in Nutrients found that participants who ate just half a cup of blueberries a day for 12 weeks experienced improvements in learning, memory, executive function decision-making, planning, focus, task management, etc.This is particularly noteworthy because executive function governs our ability to stay organized, make informed decisions, and follow through on tasks—skills that often begin to wane with age. It is incredible that something as simple and accessible as blueberries could influence these areas in just a matter of weeks.Why? Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and other bioactive compounds (chemicals that promote good health). Specifically, blueberries are packed with anthocyanins, an antioxidant that improves metabolic function, increases cell-level energy production, and decreases inflammation.These compounds are naturally occurring pigments that give blueberries their deep colour, and they do more than just look pretty—they work on a cellular level to reduce oxidative stress, which is one of the factors believed to contribute to age-related cognitive decline.That’s especially important if you’re somewhat overweight. Generally speaking, metabolic disturbance accelerates in middle age and is a prominent risk factor for dementia. Unfortunately, those who are overweight or otherwise insulin-resistant have an elevated risk for future dementia.So, for those trying to take proactive steps against cognitive decline, blueberries offer a simple, natural solution. Not a miracle cure—but an effective supplement to an overall healthy lifestyle. The demonstration of these benefits … suggests that ongoing blueberry supplementation may contribute to protection against cognitive decline when implemented early. Or in non-researcher-speak, half a cup of blueberries a day improved the average participant’s language skills, improved their short-term memory, and enhanced their decision-making, planning, and organisational skills.As an added bonus, participants also experienced lower fasting insulin levels, which means their ability to process carbohydrates efficiently (an important aspect of overall metabolic health) had also improved.Genetics Matter TooSounds too good to be true? Granted, blueberries aren’t magic. Genetics also matter. Beyond that, considerable research shows diet, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle make the biggest impact on improving — or at the very least maintaining — the effect of ageing on cognition and memory.A healthy diet can reduce age-related cognitive decline and the risk of developing various neurodegenerative diseases.Exercise can slow or even reverse the physical decay of your brain. Research shows exercise can increase the size of your hippocampus even in your 60’s and 70’s, helping to mitigate the impact of age-related memory loss.As for lifestyle, insufficient sleep is associated with accelerated brain atrophy and impaired brain functional connectivity. Alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs directly impact the brain, causing it to age more rapidly, atrophy, and lose functioning ability.So, yeah: If your diet sucks, you never exercise, and you smoke, drink, and don’t get enough sleep, blueberries are just a drop in the learning, memory, and executive function bucket.But they can help. Plus, adding one positive habit to your lifestyle may help you more easily add additional positive habits to your lifestyle. Psychologists call it the spillover effect: the way making one positive choice, no matter how small, inspires you to make other positive choices. The way focusing on improving one thing, no matter how small, will naturally and even effortlessly lead to making improvements in other areas.

just half cup of this berry can boost your cognition, memory

Tanya Dutt

Why The Obesity Crisis Won’t End Unless We Change The Way We Live, Eat And Move

Why The Obesity Crisis Won’t End Unless We Change The Way We Live, Eat And Move, Say Experts

Health & Wellness

These 10 US Cities Are The Most Stressed In 2025

these 10 us cities are the most stressed in 2025

UK Scientists Scan Over 100,000 People, What The Human Imaging Study Could Reveal About Your Health?

uk scientists scan over 100,000 people, what the human imaging study could reveal about your health?

These Lifestyle Tweaks Can Cut Chronic Disease Risk, Even with Bad Genes

these lifestyle tweaks can cut chronic disease risk, even with bad genes

Health News

rsv vaccine for expecting moms cuts risk of severe lung infections in infants by 72%; premature babies to be vaccinated before winter

Telling people to “eat less and move more” isn’t working. If it were, we wouldn’t be facing a growing <span>obesity crisis</span>, staggering healthcare costs, and lives eroded by stigma and chronic illness. The problem isn’t individual failure it’s systemic.

<span>Obesity</span> is real, chronic, and deeply rooted in our biology, environment, and society. Yet for years, policy responses have focused on personal responsibility, leaving millions to fend for a solution that only lasts till the next trip to the grocery store. To truly address this crisis, everything from individual care to global food systems must changes.

We’ve been sold the myth that weight gain is simply a matter of willpower and to eat less, move more. But emerging science tells a different story- obesity is a chronic relapsing condition, driven by a tangle of genetic, psychological, socioeconomic, and environmental forces.

In England, 26.5% of adults live with obesity. Among children aged 10–11, that number is 22.1%. Beyond fat and numbers, obesity carries heavy consequences: heart disease, type 2 diabetes, poor mental health, and more. It is estimated to cost the UK £126 billion annually—covering NHS services, unemployment, lost quality of life, and informal care support. And it’s only getting worse; by 2035, this could rise to £150 billion a year.

It’s time to recognize obesity as more than a lifestyle issue. It’s a disease born in context and reinforced by neglect.

<h2>Is The “Obesogenic” Environment Built Just for Weight Gain?</h2>

In 2007, the UK’s Foresight report introduced “obesogenic environment”—a world where high-calorie ultra-processed foods are cheap and ubiquitous, and physical activity is less necessary than ever. This isn’t accidental—it’s engineered.

Our cities encourage driving over walking. Junk food dominates retail shelf space. Work and leisure revolve around screens. In many neighborhoods, healthy options are scarce, thanks to food deserts, poor public transit, and lack of green space.

These aren’t universal conditions. Communities with lower income face disproportionately higher exposure to these obesogenic environments. That biological response to unhealthy surroundings is not a failing—it’s expected.

It’s easy to shift blame onto individuals. But telling someone to lose weight without addressing the systemic obstacles is like asking someone to swim upstream while you drain the river.

Weight stigma thrives in this climate. Without understanding obesity's roots, people struggling with weight are often labeled as lazy or undisciplined. That stigma breeds shame and discourages seeking care—especially childhood, when a lifetime of self-consciousness can begin but data shows the real drivers: deprivation correlates with rising obesity rates, especially among kids. Our approach must evolve from blame to empathy and evidence-based support.

<h2>Why it Is Important to Reframe Obesity?</h2>

To create meaningful change, we must dismantle three harmful myths:

<ul><li>Obesity is a personal failure.</li><li>Weight loss is about willpower alone.</li><li>Short-term diets and exercise plans are solutions.</li></ul>

Instead, care must be rooted in medical science and social context. Here’s how:

<h2>1. Recognize Obesity as a Disease</h2>

Health systems need to treat obesity like chronic conditions—diabetes, asthma, depression—not as an afterthought. This means consistent assessment, structured interventions, and multi-year follow-ups.

Weight-based bias is tolerated in schools, workplaces, and clinics. This must stop. Clinicians and educators require training to adopt respectful, person-centered language and practices. Public health campaigns should back this shift away from blame.

<h2>3. Deliver Tailored, Holistic Care</h2>

No one-size-fits-all. Treatment plans must consider genetics, culture, environment, mental health, and lifestyle. Follow-up must be more than numbers on a scale. Shared decision-making, psychological support, and mindful goal-setting are critical.

<h2>4. Change Surrounding Environments</h2>

To make healthy living feasible, the environment must support it. That means:

<ul><li>Expanding the sugar tax to all sugary beverages and high-sugar foods.</li><li>Reformulating ultra-processed foods to reduce calories, salt, fat, and sugar.</li><li>Mandating clear labelling and restricting advertising of unhealthy foods, especially to children.</li><li>Investing in public transit, affordable fresh food, and accessible parks, especially in underserved areas.</li><li>Implementing workplace health-friendly policies—standing desks, active transport rewards, fresh food in cafeterias.</li></ul>

This isn’t about personal choice—it’s about choice architecture.

<h2>What Are The Economic, Social, and Ethical Stakes Of obesity Crisis?</h2>

The cost of obesity isn’t only financial. There’s a social toll: family stress, workplace discrimination, mental health crises. Governments are waking up to the reality: ignoring systemic factors isn’t just irresponsible—it’s reckless.

Expanding sugar taxes alone could raise billions annually, reduce consumption, and fund essential public services. When coupled with broader reforms, these policies can shift cultural norms and industry incentives.

Moreover, recognizing socioeconomic factors—housing, education, income inequality—changes the narrative. It places the problem in context, not on individuals already struggling to stay afloat.

<h2>Everyday Steps That Need Redefining</h2>

A systems approach doesn’t erase personal responsibility—it reframes it. People matter in the solution, but environments and systems matter more. Imagine a world where:

<ul><li>Free nutrition counseling is available during pediatric checkups.</li><li>Primary care physicians routinely screen for weight stigma and mental health.</li><li>Urban planners make biking as safe and common as driving.</li><li>Grocery stores compete based on healthy food affordability.</li><li>Schools offer fresh meals, cooking classes, and daily movement.</li><li>Employers design breaks and infrastructure to support employee wellness.</li></ul>

That’s not future talk—it’s policy within reach. These aren’t random ideas—they’re pieces of an integrated solution.

We face a choice: continue business-as-usual and watch costs and suffering escalate, or embrace a comprehensive public health approach. The evidence is clear. Individual change without systemic transformation is a drop in the bucket.

Treating obesity as a chronic disease, ending stigma, delivering personalized support, and redesigning our environments represent a paradigm shift. And yes—it will require political will, public will, and significant change in how we talk about weight but the payoff is enormous with lives spared, healthcare systems stabilized, and children unburdened by preventable disease and shame. It’s not just about waistlines—it’s about equity and human dignity.

If the goal is to support healthier populations—and healthier systems—then blaming individuals for obesity is both harmful and counterproductive. The “eat less, move more” era is over.

To tackle obesity, we must reframe it from a personal failing to a collective challenge. That means shifting from judgment to understanding, from short-term fixes to long-term systems. From individual blame to societal accountability because real health isn’t about individual transformation alone—it’s about transforming the world we live in.

obesity

obesity crisis

obesity prevention strategies

systemic obesity solutions

food environment and obesity

lifestyle changes for weight loss

public health and obesity

tackling obesity epidemic

Telling people to “eat less and move more” isn’t working. If it were, we wouldn’t be facing a growing obesity crisis, staggering healthcare costs, and lives eroded by stigma and chronic illness. The problem isn’t individual failure it’s systemic.Obesity is real, chronic, and deeply rooted in our biology, environment, and society. Yet for years, policy responses have focused on personal responsibility, leaving millions to fend for a solution that only lasts till the next trip to the grocery store. To truly address this crisis, everything from individual care to global food systems must changes.We’ve been sold the myth that weight gain is simply a matter of willpower and to eat less, move more. But emerging science tells a different story- obesity is a chronic relapsing condition, driven by a tangle of genetic, psychological, socioeconomic, and environmental forces.In England, 26.5% of adults live with obesity. Among children aged 10–11, that number is 22.1%. Beyond fat and numbers, obesity carries heavy consequences: heart disease, type 2 diabetes, poor mental health, and more. It is estimated to cost the UK £126 billion annually—covering NHS services, unemployment, lost quality of life, and informal care support. And it’s only getting worse; by 2035, this could rise to £150 billion a year.It’s time to recognize obesity as more than a lifestyle issue. It’s a disease born in context and reinforced by neglect.Is The “Obesogenic” Environment Built Just for Weight Gain?In 2007, the UK’s Foresight report introduced “obesogenic environment”—a world where high-calorie ultra-processed foods are cheap and ubiquitous, and physical activity is less necessary than ever. This isn’t accidental—it’s engineered.Our cities encourage driving over walking. Junk food dominates retail shelf space. Work and leisure revolve around screens. In many neighborhoods, healthy options are scarce, thanks to food deserts, poor public transit, and lack of green space.These aren’t universal conditions. Communities with lower income face disproportionately higher exposure to these obesogenic environments. That biological response to unhealthy surroundings is not a failing—it’s expected.It’s easy to shift blame onto individuals. But telling someone to lose weight without addressing the systemic obstacles is like asking someone to swim upstream while you drain the river.Weight stigma thrives in this climate. Without understanding obesity's roots, people struggling with weight are often labeled as lazy or undisciplined. That stigma breeds shame and discourages seeking care—especially childhood, when a lifetime of self-consciousness can begin but data shows the real drivers: deprivation correlates with rising obesity rates, especially among kids. Our approach must evolve from blame to empathy and evidence-based support.Why it Is Important to Reframe Obesity?To create meaningful change, we must dismantle three harmful myths:Obesity is a personal failure.Weight loss is about willpower alone.Short-term diets and exercise plans are solutions.Instead, care must be rooted in medical science and social context. Here’s how:1. Recognize Obesity as a DiseaseHealth systems need to treat obesity like chronic conditions—diabetes, asthma, depression—not as an afterthought. This means consistent assessment, structured interventions, and multi-year follow-ups.2. Confront Weight StigmaWeight-based bias is tolerated in schools, workplaces, and clinics. This must stop. Clinicians and educators require training to adopt respectful, person-centered language and practices. Public health campaigns should back this shift away from blame.3. Deliver Tailored, Holistic CareNo one-size-fits-all. Treatment plans must consider genetics, culture, environment, mental health, and lifestyle. Follow-up must be more than numbers on a scale. Shared decision-making, psychological support, and mindful goal-setting are critical.4. Change Surrounding EnvironmentsTo make healthy living feasible, the environment must support it. That means:Expanding the sugar tax to all sugary beverages and high-sugar foods.Reformulating ultra-processed foods to reduce calories, salt, fat, and sugar.Mandating clear labelling and restricting advertising of unhealthy foods, especially to children.Investing in public transit, affordable fresh food, and accessible parks, especially in underserved areas.Implementing workplace health-friendly policies—standing desks, active transport rewards, fresh food in cafeterias.This isn’t about personal choice—it’s about choice architecture.What Are The Economic, Social, and Ethical Stakes Of obesity Crisis?The cost of obesity isn’t only financial. There’s a social toll: family stress, workplace discrimination, mental health crises. Governments are waking up to the reality: ignoring systemic factors isn’t just irresponsible—it’s reckless.Expanding sugar taxes alone could raise billions annually, reduce consumption, and fund essential public services. When coupled with broader reforms, these policies can shift cultural norms and industry incentives.Moreover, recognizing socioeconomic factors—housing, education, income inequality—changes the narrative. It places the problem in context, not on individuals already struggling to stay afloat.Everyday Steps That Need RedefiningA systems approach doesn’t erase personal responsibility—it reframes it. People matter in the solution, but environments and systems matter more. Imagine a world where:Free nutrition counseling is available during pediatric checkups.Primary care physicians routinely screen for weight stigma and mental health.Urban planners make biking as safe and common as driving.Grocery stores compete based on healthy food affordability.Schools offer fresh meals, cooking classes, and daily movement.Employers design breaks and infrastructure to support employee wellness.That’s not future talk—it’s policy within reach. These aren’t random ideas—they’re pieces of an integrated solution.Why We Need the Shift Now?We face a choice: continue business-as-usual and watch costs and suffering escalate, or embrace a comprehensive public health approach. The evidence is clear. Individual change without systemic transformation is a drop in the bucket.Treating obesity as a chronic disease, ending stigma, delivering personalized support, and redesigning our environments represent a paradigm shift. And yes—it will require political will, public will, and significant change in how we talk about weight but the payoff is enormous with lives spared, healthcare systems stabilized, and children unburdened by preventable disease and shame. It’s not just about waistlines—it’s about equity and human dignity.If the goal is to support healthier populations—and healthier systems—then blaming individuals for obesity is both harmful and counterproductive. The “eat less, move more” era is over.To tackle obesity, we must reframe it from a personal failing to a collective challenge. That means shifting from judgment to understanding, from short-term fixes to long-term systems. From individual blame to societal accountability because real health isn’t about individual transformation alone—it’s about transforming the world we live in.

why the obesity crisis won’t end unless we change the way we live, eat and move, say experts

Ishita Roy

'Obsolete And Unnecessary': FDA Set To Revoke 52 Nutrition And Labeling Rules

"obsolete and unnecessary": fda set to revoke 52 nutrition and labeling rules

Donald Trump Says Cane Sugar Is ‘Just Better’ Than Corn Syrup, But Is It Really Healthier?

donald trump says cane sugar is ‘just better’ than corn syrup, but is it really healthier?

UK Issues Slushie Warning: Why This Summer Favourite Could Be Risky for Kids

uk issues slushie warning: why this summer favourite could be risky for kids

5 Healthy Foods For Your Dental Health

5 healthy foods for your dental health

By 2028, nearly 90% of ice cream and frozen desserts sold in the United States will be free from artificial food dyes, according to a new announcement by federal health officials and the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA). The move comes after years of pressure from health advocates and consumers for cleaner, more natural ingredients in everyday foods.

Around 40 major ice cream and dessert brands have committed to removing seven commonly used synthetic dyes—Red 3, Red 40, Green 3, Blue 1, Blue 2, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6—from their products. The timeline for this shift is less than three years, signaling a fast-paced change across the industry.

<h4>“A Renaissance Moment for Health”</h4>

Calling it a major public health milestone, Dr. Marty Makary, commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), described the change as “a Renaissance moment for health in America.” He emphasized that this move is part of a broader trend in the food industry to reduce synthetic ingredients and shift toward natural alternatives.

Big-name food companies like Nestlé, Kraft Heinz, and General Mills have also announced plans to phase out artificial colors from a range of their products—not just ice cream—reflecting a larger industry transformation.

<h4>The Health Debate Around <span rel="noindex">Artificial Dyes</span></h4>

For years, health groups have pushed for the removal of artificial food dyes, citing studies that suggest a link between synthetic colorants and behavior or attention problems in some children. Red 3, in particular, has come under scrutiny. Though still considered safe in small amounts by the FDA, it was officially banned for use in food earlier this year after being linked to cancer in lab animal studies. Food companies have until 2027 to comply with the ban.

Despite these findings, the FDA maintains that most approved dyes are safe and that “most children have no adverse effects” from consuming them. Nevertheless, Makary has urged companies to stop using Red 3 even before the official deadline.

<h4>Natural Colors Take Center Stage</h4>

In response, companies are being encouraged to replace synthetic dyes with natural ones derived from fruits, plants, and other edible sources. This includes ingredients like beet juice, turmeric, spirulina, and carrot extract.

Adding to these efforts, the FDA just approved a new natural blue color extracted from gardenia fruit. This dye can now be used in a variety of foods, including sports drinks and candy.

<h4>Will This Make Ice Cream Healthier?</h4>

While the move away from artificial dyes is widely seen as a step in the right direction, some <span>nutrition</span> experts warn that it doesn’t automatically make ice cream a health food.

“Just removing artificial dyes won’t change the fact that ice cream is still high in sugar and saturated fat,” said Deanna Hoelscher, a professor of nutrition at the University of Texas. “It’s a treat that should still be enjoyed in moderation.”

According to the IDFA, the average American consumes about four gallons of ice cream every year.

<h4>Voluntary Promises or Real Progress?</h4>

Not everyone is convinced that voluntary pledges from companies are enough. Thomas Galligan, a scientist at the Center for Science in the Public Interest, expressed concern that promises might not translate into real change.

“Talk is cheap,” Galligan said. “It’s easy to make commitments for good press, but we’ll have to see if companies actually follow through.”

As pressure from health experts and consumers continues to grow, all eyes are now on whether food makers will meet these pledges—and whether natural food coloring becomes the new industry standard.

artificial dyes

nutrition

diet and nutrition

diet nutrition

dyes in ice cream

By 2028, nearly 90% of ice cream and frozen desserts sold in the United States will be free from artificial food dyes, according to a new announcement by federal health officials and the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA). The move comes after years of pressure from health advocates and consumers for cleaner, more natural ingredients in everyday foods.Around 40 major ice cream and dessert brands have committed to removing seven commonly used synthetic dyes—Red 3, Red 40, Green 3, Blue 1, Blue 2, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6—from their products. The timeline for this shift is less than three years, signaling a fast-paced change across the industry.“A Renaissance Moment for Health”Calling it a major public health milestone, Dr. Marty Makary, commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), described the change as “a Renaissance moment for health in America.” He emphasized that this move is part of a broader trend in the food industry to reduce synthetic ingredients and shift toward natural alternatives.Big-name food companies like Nestlé, Kraft Heinz, and General Mills have also announced plans to phase out artificial colors from a range of their products—not just ice cream—reflecting a larger industry transformation.The Health Debate Around Artificial DyesFor years, health groups have pushed for the removal of artificial food dyes, citing studies that suggest a link between synthetic colorants and behavior or attention problems in some children. Red 3, in particular, has come under scrutiny. Though still considered safe in small amounts by the FDA, it was officially banned for use in food earlier this year after being linked to cancer in lab animal studies. Food companies have until 2027 to comply with the ban.Despite these findings, the FDA maintains that most approved dyes are safe and that “most children have no adverse effects” from consuming them. Nevertheless, Makary has urged companies to stop using Red 3 even before the official deadline.Natural Colors Take Center StageIn response, companies are being encouraged to replace synthetic dyes with natural ones derived from fruits, plants, and other edible sources. This includes ingredients like beet juice, turmeric, spirulina, and carrot extract.Adding to these efforts, the FDA just approved a new natural blue color extracted from gardenia fruit. This dye can now be used in a variety of foods, including sports drinks and candy.Will This Make Ice Cream Healthier?While the move away from artificial dyes is widely seen as a step in the right direction, some nutrition experts warn that it doesn’t automatically make ice cream a health food.“Just removing artificial dyes won’t change the fact that ice cream is still high in sugar and saturated fat,” said Deanna Hoelscher, a professor of nutrition at the University of Texas. “It’s a treat that should still be enjoyed in moderation.”According to the IDFA, the average American consumes about four gallons of ice cream every year.Voluntary Promises or Real Progress?Not everyone is convinced that voluntary pledges from companies are enough. Thomas Galligan, a scientist at the Center for Science in the Public Interest, expressed concern that promises might not translate into real change.“Talk is cheap,” Galligan said. “It’s easy to make commitments for good press, but we’ll have to see if companies actually follow through.”As pressure from health experts and consumers continues to grow, all eyes are now on whether food makers will meet these pledges—and whether natural food coloring becomes the new industry standard.

artificial dyes set to disappear from 90% of u.s. ice cream by 2028

How Naturopathy Uses Greens Like Brahmi and Moringa to Promote Detoxification and Gut Health

how naturopathy uses greens like brahmi and moringa to promote detoxification and gut health

Can Ricinoleic Acid in Castor Oil Help Reduce Arthritis Pain and Inflammation?

can ricinoleic acid in castor oil help reduce arthritis pain and inflammation?

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people missed their routine dental check-ups. This has left them wondering how their <span>dental health</span> may have been impacted. However, while dentist visits matter, your diet plays a major role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy.

According to dental experts, eating foods rich in nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and vitamin D, and low in sugar and processed carbs, can protect against cavities, bleeding gums, and other oral health issues. On the flip side, some common foods — even those considered healthy — may damage your teeth if consumed regularly.

Here’s a look at five foods that support oral health and five that may be harming it.

<h4>5 Foods That Are Great for Your Teeth</h4>

Cacao nibs — or unsweetened dark chocolate — contain polyphenols that help kill cavity-causing bacteria and prevent plaque from sticking to teeth. Research shows cocoa compounds can be as effective as mouthwash in reducing harmful bacteria, without affecting the good ones. Just be sure to choose chocolate with little to no added sugar.

Cheese, butter, and other dairy products from grass-fed animals are rich in vitamin K2, a nutrient that supports tooth mineralization and overall dental health. Many people are deficient in K2, and grass-fed dairy offers a natural source. Other good sources include eggs, chicken liver, and natto.

Fish like salmon, tuna, mackerel, and trout are packed with vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, which help strengthen tooth enamel and reduce gum inflammation. Vitamin D also helps deliver calcium to teeth — a key part of preventing decay.

Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are high in minerals and act as prebiotics in the mouth. They support beneficial bacteria and help produce nitric oxide, which can benefit both oral and heart health. Leafy greens also help clean your teeth naturally and strengthen enamel.

While acidic, citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruit provide vitamin C, which helps reduce gum inflammation and supports healthy connective tissues in the mouth. Studies show they may even reduce bleeding gums. Just rinse your mouth with water afterward to limit acid exposure.

<h4>5 Foods That Can Harm Your Dental Health</h4>

Don’t let their bland flavor fool you — crackers quickly break down into sugars, feeding harmful bacteria that cause decay. They’re often more damaging than candy. If you crave something crunchy, choose seed-based options without wheat or refined carbs.

Sticky and sweet, dried fruits like raisins and apricots cling to teeth and are high in sugar. They also have a low pH, making them acidic and more likely to erode enamel. Whole, fresh fruit is a better choice.

Soda is one of the most acidic beverages on the market, with or without sugar. Its pH can weaken enamel and lead to cavities. Sip it quickly, not slowly over time, and rinse with water afterward. Wait at least 45 minutes before brushing.

Often seen as a health drink, some kombucha brands contain added sugars and lack active probiotics. These sweet and acidic drinks can harm your teeth if consumed regularly. Choose sugar-free versions with visible fermentation and rinse after drinking.

Though nutritious, legumes contain phytic acid, which can interfere with the absorption of calcium and magnesium — minerals your teeth need. If you rely heavily on these foods, make sure you’re getting enough of the key nutrients from other sources.

dental health

food for dental health

food for oral health

dental health food

food to avoid for dental health

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people missed their routine dental check-ups. This has left them wondering how their dental health may have been impacted. However, while dentist visits matter, your diet plays a major role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy.According to dental experts, eating foods rich in nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and vitamin D, and low in sugar and processed carbs, can protect against cavities, bleeding gums, and other oral health issues. On the flip side, some common foods — even those considered healthy — may damage your teeth if consumed regularly.Here’s a look at five foods that support oral health and five that may be harming it.5 Foods That Are Great for Your TeethCacao Nibs or Dark Chocolate Cacao nibs — or unsweetened dark chocolate — contain polyphenols that help kill cavity-causing bacteria and prevent plaque from sticking to teeth. Research shows cocoa compounds can be as effective as mouthwash in reducing harmful bacteria, without affecting the good ones. Just be sure to choose chocolate with little to no added sugar.Grass-Fed DairyCheese, butter, and other dairy products from grass-fed animals are rich in vitamin K2, a nutrient that supports tooth mineralization and overall dental health. Many people are deficient in K2, and grass-fed dairy offers a natural source. Other good sources include eggs, chicken liver, and natto.Fatty FishFish like salmon, tuna, mackerel, and trout are packed with vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, which help strengthen tooth enamel and reduce gum inflammation. Vitamin D also helps deliver calcium to teeth — a key part of preventing decay.Leafy GreensSpinach, kale, and Swiss chard are high in minerals and act as prebiotics in the mouth. They support beneficial bacteria and help produce nitric oxide, which can benefit both oral and heart health. Leafy greens also help clean your teeth naturally and strengthen enamel.Grapefruit and Oranges While acidic, citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruit provide vitamin C, which helps reduce gum inflammation and supports healthy connective tissues in the mouth. Studies show they may even reduce bleeding gums. Just rinse your mouth with water afterward to limit acid exposure.5 Foods That Can Harm Your Dental HealthCrackers and Processed CarbsDon’t let their bland flavor fool you — crackers quickly break down into sugars, feeding harmful bacteria that cause decay. They’re often more damaging than candy. If you crave something crunchy, choose seed-based options without wheat or refined carbs.Dried FruitsSticky and sweet, dried fruits like raisins and apricots cling to teeth and are high in sugar. They also have a low pH, making them acidic and more likely to erode enamel. Whole, fresh fruit is a better choice.Soda Soda is one of the most acidic beverages on the market, with or without sugar. Its pH can weaken enamel and lead to cavities. Sip it quickly, not slowly over time, and rinse with water afterward. Wait at least 45 minutes before brushing.KombuchaOften seen as a health drink, some kombucha brands contain added sugars and lack active probiotics. These sweet and acidic drinks can harm your teeth if consumed regularly. Choose sugar-free versions with visible fermentation and rinse after drinking.Beans and LentilsThough nutritious, legumes contain phytic acid, which can interfere with the absorption of calcium and magnesium — minerals your teeth need. If you rely heavily on these foods, make sure you’re getting enough of the key nutrients from other sources.

About Us

Contact Us

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

Company

Health and Me is a premium website with content written and curated to function as a handbook for all Health concerns.

Just Half Cup Of This Berry Can Boost Your Cognition, Memory

Quick Stories

Artificial Dyes Set To Disappear From 90% Of U.S. Ice Cream By 2028

Why The Obesity Crisis Won’t End Unless We Change The Way We Live, Eat And Move

5 Healthy Foods For Your Dental Health

Health Conditions A-Z

Does It Really Work? Trials For Chemical Castration In UK Jails Raise Questions On It's Effectiveness

RSV Vaccine For Expecting Moms Cuts Risk Of Severe Lung Infections In Infants by 72%; Premature Babies To Be Vaccinated Before Winter

Artificial Dyes Set To Disappear From 90% Of U.S. Ice Cream By 2028