Health and Me

Ishita Roy

Why "Old People" Have Body Odor? What Can They Eat To Prevent It?

The musty, cardboard-like scent often associated with older adults is widely recognized and just as widely misunderstood. Commonly referred to as “old people smell,” this odor isn’t a result of poor hygiene or a specific perfume — it's rooted in biology. As people age, their skin undergoes changes that make this scent more pronounced and persistent.

This distinct smell is caused by a compound called 2-nonenal, which forms on the skin due to lipid peroxidation — the process where fats in the skin oxidize. As antioxidant levels decline with age and cellular turnover slows, these oxidized fats accumulate on the skin's surface. The result is a lingering odor that isn’t easily washed away or masked with fragrance.

As the body ages, hormonal shifts and slower skin renewal contribute to the buildup of oxidized lipids. The body's ability to shed old cells and regenerate new ones becomes less efficient, making it harder to naturally eliminate the compounds responsible for the odor.

Additionally, typical cleansing methods like bathing or using deodorants don’t effectively break down the fatty acids responsible for the scent. This is why the smell can persist despite maintaining good hygiene.

<h4>The Role of 2-Nonenal and Lipid Peroxidation</h4>

The key culprit behind this age-related body odor is 2-nonenal, a byproduct formed when omega-7 fatty acids in the skin oxidize. This process, called lipid peroxidation, is essentially the skin’s version of rusting. Without sufficient antioxidant protection, especially as one ages, this oxidation accelerates.

Unlike typical body odor, which is caused by bacteria breaking down sweat, 2-nonenal comes from within — which means it can't be scrubbed off or covered with perfume. In fact, adding perfume often results in a more musty combination rather than eliminating the smell.

<h4>How Mushrooms Can Help from the Inside Out</h4>

The most effective way to address this odor is not external but internal — by targeting its root cause through <span>nutrition</span>. Enter mushrooms: a powerful superfood that offers several age-defying benefits.

Mushrooms are especially rich in ergothioneine, a unique amino acid and antioxidant that can halt lipid peroxidation before it leads to odor formation. Ergothioneine also has anti-inflammatory properties, helping the skin stay healthier and more resistant to oxidative damage.

Additionally, mushrooms contain spermidine, a natural compound that supports autophagy, the body’s internal “clean-up” system. Autophagy breaks down and recycles damaged cell components, promoting cell renewal and helping maintain healthier skin — and in turn, reducing the scent associated with aging.

While all mushrooms contribute positively to health, certain varieties are more potent when it comes to fighting age-related odor. Shiitake and oyster mushrooms stand out for their high levels of ergothioneine and spermidine, making them particularly effective in targeting the root causes of 2-nonenal buildup.

These mushrooms not only support better skin health but have also been linked to a lower risk of cognitive decline and chronic disease. Their benefits extend beyond odor prevention, offering immune support, cancer-fighting properties, and improved metabolic health.

Incorporating mushrooms into the diet offers a range of age-related health benefits. In addition to curbing the development of the so-called “old people smell,” mushrooms have been found to:

<ul><li>Lower blood pressure</li><li>Improve insulin resistance</li><li>Protect against brain damage</li><li>Slow cancer progression</li><li>Strengthen bones</li></ul>

Studies have also linked mushroom consumption with reduced risks of prostate and breast cancer. In some countries like Japan and China, mushroom extracts are even used alongside cancer treatments due to their immune-boosting effects.

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food for body odor

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food to smell good

food for old people

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The musty, cardboard-like scent often associated with older adults is widely recognized and just as widely misunderstood. Commonly referred to as “old people smell,” this odor isn’t a result of poor hygiene or a specific perfume — it's rooted in biology. As people age, their skin undergoes changes that make this scent more pronounced and persistent.This distinct smell is caused by a compound called 2-nonenal, which forms on the skin due to lipid peroxidation — the process where fats in the skin oxidize. As antioxidant levels decline with age and cellular turnover slows, these oxidized fats accumulate on the skin's surface. The result is a lingering odor that isn’t easily washed away or masked with fragrance.Why the Scent Lingers With AgeAs the body ages, hormonal shifts and slower skin renewal contribute to the buildup of oxidized lipids. The body's ability to shed old cells and regenerate new ones becomes less efficient, making it harder to naturally eliminate the compounds responsible for the odor.Additionally, typical cleansing methods like bathing or using deodorants don’t effectively break down the fatty acids responsible for the scent. This is why the smell can persist despite maintaining good hygiene.The Role of 2-Nonenal and Lipid PeroxidationThe key culprit behind this age-related body odor is 2-nonenal, a byproduct formed when omega-7 fatty acids in the skin oxidize. This process, called lipid peroxidation, is essentially the skin’s version of rusting. Without sufficient antioxidant protection, especially as one ages, this oxidation accelerates.Unlike typical body odor, which is caused by bacteria breaking down sweat, 2-nonenal comes from within — which means it can't be scrubbed off or covered with perfume. In fact, adding perfume often results in a more musty combination rather than eliminating the smell.How Mushrooms Can Help from the Inside OutThe most effective way to address this odor is not external but internal — by targeting its root cause through nutrition. Enter mushrooms: a powerful superfood that offers several age-defying benefits.Mushrooms are especially rich in ergothioneine, a unique amino acid and antioxidant that can halt lipid peroxidation before it leads to odor formation. Ergothioneine also has anti-inflammatory properties, helping the skin stay healthier and more resistant to oxidative damage.Additionally, mushrooms contain spermidine, a natural compound that supports autophagy, the body’s internal “clean-up” system. Autophagy breaks down and recycles damaged cell components, promoting cell renewal and helping maintain healthier skin — and in turn, reducing the scent associated with aging.The Best Mushrooms for the JobWhile all mushrooms contribute positively to health, certain varieties are more potent when it comes to fighting age-related odor. Shiitake and oyster mushrooms stand out for their high levels of ergothioneine and spermidine, making them particularly effective in targeting the root causes of 2-nonenal buildup.These mushrooms not only support better skin health but have also been linked to a lower risk of cognitive decline and chronic disease. Their benefits extend beyond odor prevention, offering immune support, cancer-fighting properties, and improved metabolic health.More Than Just Odor ControlIncorporating mushrooms into the diet offers a range of age-related health benefits. In addition to curbing the development of the so-called “old people smell,” mushrooms have been found to:Lower blood pressureImprove insulin resistanceProtect against brain damageSlow cancer progressionStrengthen bonesStudies have also linked mushroom consumption with reduced risks of prostate and breast cancer. In some countries like Japan and China, mushroom extracts are even used alongside cancer treatments due to their immune-boosting effects.

why "old people" have body odor? what can they eat to prevent it?

Healthier Popcorn Alternatives You Can Try For Your July 4 Movie Nights

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July 4th Firework Accidents Are Common—Here’s How to Stay Safe

july 4th firework accidents are common—here’s how to stay safe

The Fourth of July is usually all about fireworks, BBQs, and patriotic playlists—but let’s not forget another tradition that’s gained popularity in recent years: movie nights at home. Whether you’re winding down from a long day of celebrations or just skipping the crowd to watch classics under the stars, a cozy night in calls for sweatpants, blankets, and of course, snacks.

Popcorn may be the go-to, but this Independence Day, consider breaking from tradition with some revolutionary snack choices. Did you know there are plenty of whole grains you can pop for a lighter, crunchier twist? Sorghum, amaranth, quinoa, and more—these ancient grains bring unique textures and flavors without the pesky hulls that stick in your teeth.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/nutrition/these-steps-will-wash-blueberries-the-right-way-and-remove-pathogens-and-pesticides-residue-article-152212575" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">These Steps Will Wash Blueberries The Right Way And Remove Pathogens And Pesticides Residue</a>

<h2>Not All Grains Pop—But They Puff Beautifully</h2>

Let’s clear things up: most ancient grains don’t pop into fluffy, buttery clouds like corn does. Instead, they puff when heated. So, if you’re trying them for the first time, expect a toasty crunch rather than big, airy bites. But what they lack in size, they make up for in taste, <span>nutrition</span>, and charm.

If you’re new to puffing grains, start with sorghum. It looks like tiny popcorn and delivers a similarly satisfying crunch. Lauren Harris-Pincus, MS, RDN, calls it a “gluten-free, fiber-rich, antioxidant-packed” snack that’s grown right here in the U.S.

<strong>Bonus: </strong>Sorghum doesn’t have a hull, so there’s zero risk of those annoying popcorn bits in your teeth. Sprinkle it over salads, soups, or even ice cream for an unexpected Fourth of July twist.

Amaranth is a quick-popper and packs serious nutrition—think protein, fiber, and minerals. Lisa Richards, nutritionist and author of The Candida Diet, notes that it’s gluten-free and nutrient-dense. Its tiny size makes it ideal for mixing into granola bars, muffins, or DIY cereals. Puffed amaranth adds a fun crunch to yogurt parfaits or fruit bowls at your 4th of July breakfast table.

While barley doesn’t exactly pop, it does crack and puff slightly, resulting in a chewy, nutty snack. It’s not the flashiest grain, but it delivers a mellow, toasted flavor perfect for a post-fireworks wind-down snack.

Puffed buckwheat doesn’t just sound fun—it’s actually delicious. Crunchy and tender, this grain works best as a topping on oatmeal, fresh fruit, or nut-butter toast. If you’re not up for DIY puffing, try pre-puffed options like Lil Bucks for easy snacking.

Quinoa pops small, but brings bold flavor. While its shape doesn’t change much, its texture gets light and crisp. Try puffed quinoa on salads, in trail mix, or as a cereal replacement for a healthier holiday breakfast.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/this-year-doctors-day-reminded-that-doctors-too-are-humans-and-can-get-emotionally-exhausted-article-152211263" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">This Year, Doctor's Day Reminded That Doctors Too Are Humans And Can Get Emotionally Exhausted</a>

Puffing ancient grains is surprisingly simple—no oil required! Here’s how to do it:

<ul><li>Heat a medium saucepan over medium-high heat until a drop of water sizzles and evaporates.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Add grains in a single layer, and shake the pan frequently.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Listen and watch: grains will crackle, puff, or lightly brown. Remove promptly to avoid burning.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Each grain reacts differently to heat, so keep an eye on texture and color. Overheating can result in bitterness.</li></ul>

4th of july snacks

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popcorn and movie night

popcorn alternative

The Fourth of July is usually all about fireworks, BBQs, and patriotic playlists—but let’s not forget another tradition that’s gained popularity in recent years: movie nights at home. Whether you’re winding down from a long day of celebrations or just skipping the crowd to watch classics under the stars, a cozy night in calls for sweatpants, blankets, and of course, snacks.Popcorn may be the go-to, but this Independence Day, consider breaking from tradition with some revolutionary snack choices. Did you know there are plenty of whole grains you can pop for a lighter, crunchier twist? Sorghum, amaranth, quinoa, and more—these ancient grains bring unique textures and flavors without the pesky hulls that stick in your teeth.Also Read: These Steps Will Wash Blueberries The Right Way And Remove Pathogens And Pesticides ResidueNot All Grains Pop—But They Puff BeautifullyLet’s clear things up: most ancient grains don’t pop into fluffy, buttery clouds like corn does. Instead, they puff when heated. So, if you’re trying them for the first time, expect a toasty crunch rather than big, airy bites. But what they lack in size, they make up for in taste, nutrition, and charm.1. SorghumIf you’re new to puffing grains, start with sorghum. It looks like tiny popcorn and delivers a similarly satisfying crunch. Lauren Harris-Pincus, MS, RDN, calls it a “gluten-free, fiber-rich, antioxidant-packed” snack that’s grown right here in the U.S.Bonus: Sorghum doesn’t have a hull, so there’s zero risk of those annoying popcorn bits in your teeth. Sprinkle it over salads, soups, or even ice cream for an unexpected Fourth of July twist.2. AmaranthAmaranth is a quick-popper and packs serious nutrition—think protein, fiber, and minerals. Lisa Richards, nutritionist and author of The Candida Diet, notes that it’s gluten-free and nutrient-dense. Its tiny size makes it ideal for mixing into granola bars, muffins, or DIY cereals. Puffed amaranth adds a fun crunch to yogurt parfaits or fruit bowls at your 4th of July breakfast table.3. BarleyWhile barley doesn’t exactly pop, it does crack and puff slightly, resulting in a chewy, nutty snack. It’s not the flashiest grain, but it delivers a mellow, toasted flavor perfect for a post-fireworks wind-down snack.4. BuckwheatPuffed buckwheat doesn’t just sound fun—it’s actually delicious. Crunchy and tender, this grain works best as a topping on oatmeal, fresh fruit, or nut-butter toast. If you’re not up for DIY puffing, try pre-puffed options like Lil Bucks for easy snacking.5. QuinoaQuinoa pops small, but brings bold flavor. While its shape doesn’t change much, its texture gets light and crisp. Try puffed quinoa on salads, in trail mix, or as a cereal replacement for a healthier holiday breakfast.Also Read: This Year, Doctor's Day Reminded That Doctors Too Are Humans And Can Get Emotionally ExhaustedHow to Puff Ancient Grains?Puffing ancient grains is surprisingly simple—no oil required! Here’s how to do it:Heat a medium saucepan over medium-high heat until a drop of water sizzles and evaporates.Add grains in a single layer, and shake the pan frequently.Listen and watch: grains will crackle, puff, or lightly brown. Remove promptly to avoid burning.Each grain reacts differently to heat, so keep an eye on texture and color. Overheating can result in bitterness.

healthier popcorn alternatives you can try for your july 4 movie nights

FDA Recalls Blueberries Over Listeria Risk Ahead of July 4th Festivities

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On Tuesday, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a recall of 12,000 pounds of organic bulk <span>blueberries</span> which was distributed by Alma Pal International LLC. According to the agency, the blueberries have been tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes, a potentially dangerous bacteria known to cause foodborne illness.

<strong>READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/nutrition/fda-recalls-blueberries-over-listeria-risk-ahead-of-july-4th-festivities-article-152203844" data-type="tilCustomLink">FDA Recalls Blueberries Over Listeria Risk Ahead of July 4th Festivities</a></strong>

Amid all this, one question that concerns many is how to wash blueberries the right way? 

While water alone can remove debris, food scientist Bryan Quoc Le, Ph.D., says, as reported in <em>marthastewart.com</em> that it is not enough to eliminate pathogens or pesticide residue. 

However, there are tips and tricks that can remove such residue. For this, your household staples like white vinegar or baking soda can work. 

Vinegar's low pH makes it very effective at dissolving certain pesticide residues and inhibiting bacterial growth. Baking soda too works well when it comes to neutralizing bacteria through its alkaline nature. However, it may leave a bitter residue if it is not rinsed properly.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/nutrition/healthier-popcorn-alternatives-you-can-try-for-your-july-4-movie-nights-article-152213873" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Healthier Popcorn Alternatives You Can Try For Your July 4 Movie Nights</a> 

<h2>Why Isn't It Enough To Just Rinse Blueberries With Water?</h2>

Simply rinsing blueberries with water may wash away visible dirt, but it’s not enough to tackle bacteria, mold, or pesticide residues. According to Le, using vinegar or baking soda is more effective, as both alter the pH of the berry’s surface—creating an environment that disrupts microbial growth and helps extend shelf life better than neutral water.

<h2>Washing Trick: Why Do Baking Soda and Vinegar Work?</h2>

As an alkaline cleaner, baking soda is effective against a different range of bacteria. However, it may leave a slightly bitter residue if not rinsed off thoroughly.

White distilled vinegar is ideal for cleaning produce. Its acidity helps break down certain pesticides—especially those with a basic pH—and inhibits bacterial growth. “It’s the pH that matters, not the vinegar type,” says Dr. Le. Apple cider vinegar works too, but white vinegar is more affordable and equally effective.

<h2>How To Clean Blueberries The Right Way?</h2>

<h3>For vinegar wash, follow these steps:</h3>

<ul><li>Start with mixing 3 parts cold water to 1 part white vinegar. Use a large bowl to mix properly. </li></ul>

<ul><li>Now, add blueberries and let it soak for 5 to 10 minutes. </li></ul>

<ul><li>Wash your hands and then you can then wash the blueberries thoroughly, rub it with your hands to help loosen debris. </li></ul>

<ul><li>Once done, drain the water and wash the blueberries again with running cold water to remove any vinegar residue </li></ul>

<ul><li>Dry completely on a clean dish towel or paper towel before you store it in the refrigerator. </li></ul>

<h3>For baking soda wash, follow these steps:</h3>

<ul><li>In a large bowl, dissolve 1 teaspoon of baking soda in 2 cups of cold water. Stir well until fully mixed.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Gently add the blueberries to the solution and let them soak for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps loosen dirt, bacteria, and pesticide residues.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Drain the berries and rinse them well under cool running water to remove any remaining baking soda.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Spread the blueberries out on a clean dish towel or paper towels and pat them dry. Let them air dry completely before storing in the refrigerator to prevent mold growth.</li></ul>

<strong>Note:</strong> <em>Make sure you do not soak the blueberries for longer than 15 minutes. Food scientist warns that the skin can begin to degrade if the blueberries are soaked for too long and it can cause flavors to dissolve in the cleaning solution.</em>

blueberry recall

fda blueberry recall listeria

alma pak blueberry recall listeria

blueberries

blueberries listeria

On Tuesday, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a recall of 12,000 pounds of organic bulk blueberries which was distributed by Alma Pal International LLC. According to the agency, the blueberries have been tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes, a potentially dangerous bacteria known to cause foodborne illness.READ: FDA Recalls Blueberries Over Listeria Risk Ahead of July 4th FestivitiesAmid all this, one question that concerns many is how to wash blueberries the right way? While water alone can remove debris, food scientist Bryan Quoc Le, Ph.D., says, as reported in marthastewart.com that it is not enough to eliminate pathogens or pesticide residue. However, there are tips and tricks that can remove such residue. For this, your household staples like white vinegar or baking soda can work. Vinegar's low pH makes it very effective at dissolving certain pesticide residues and inhibiting bacterial growth. Baking soda too works well when it comes to neutralizing bacteria through its alkaline nature. However, it may leave a bitter residue if it is not rinsed properly.Also Read: Healthier Popcorn Alternatives You Can Try For Your July 4 Movie Nights Why Isn't It Enough To Just Rinse Blueberries With Water?Simply rinsing blueberries with water may wash away visible dirt, but it’s not enough to tackle bacteria, mold, or pesticide residues. According to Le, using vinegar or baking soda is more effective, as both alter the pH of the berry’s surface—creating an environment that disrupts microbial growth and helps extend shelf life better than neutral water.Washing Trick: Why Do Baking Soda and Vinegar Work?Baking SodaAs an alkaline cleaner, baking soda is effective against a different range of bacteria. However, it may leave a slightly bitter residue if not rinsed off thoroughly.VinegarWhite distilled vinegar is ideal for cleaning produce. Its acidity helps break down certain pesticides—especially those with a basic pH—and inhibits bacterial growth. “It’s the pH that matters, not the vinegar type,” says Dr. Le. Apple cider vinegar works too, but white vinegar is more affordable and equally effective.How To Clean Blueberries The Right Way?For vinegar wash, follow these steps:Start with mixing 3 parts cold water to 1 part white vinegar. Use a large bowl to mix properly. Now, add blueberries and let it soak for 5 to 10 minutes. Wash your hands and then you can then wash the blueberries thoroughly, rub it with your hands to help loosen debris. Once done, drain the water and wash the blueberries again with running cold water to remove any vinegar residue Dry completely on a clean dish towel or paper towel before you store it in the refrigerator. For baking soda wash, follow these steps:In a large bowl, dissolve 1 teaspoon of baking soda in 2 cups of cold water. Stir well until fully mixed.Gently add the blueberries to the solution and let them soak for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps loosen dirt, bacteria, and pesticide residues.Drain the berries and rinse them well under cool running water to remove any remaining baking soda.Spread the blueberries out on a clean dish towel or paper towels and pat them dry. Let them air dry completely before storing in the refrigerator to prevent mold growth.Note: Make sure you do not soak the blueberries for longer than 15 minutes. Food scientist warns that the skin can begin to degrade if the blueberries are soaked for too long and it can cause flavors to dissolve in the cleaning solution.

Aarushi Bhadury

Protein Bars Are Not As Healthy As You May Think They Are - Avoid These Components For Future Buys

Later Dinners Are A Recipe For Disaster - Study Finds The Best Time To Eat Dinner For Health

later dinners are a recipe for disaster - study finds the best time to eat dinner for health

Australian Man Dies From An 'Extremely Rare' Rabies Like Infection After A Bat Bite

australian man dies from an 'extremely rare' rabies like infection after a bat bite

When it comes to saving time, we have built many things, from quicker transportation to smart home appliances. These things reduce not just the process as well as the effort so that we can focus on more important things. Similarly, <span>protein bars</span> were not only an easy but also efficient way to get your daily nutrient intake. However, are they as healthy as they seem? 

A new study published in Scientific Reports (Nature) raises questions about the actual nutritional value of many protein bars. The study found that a significant number of the 1,600+ bars tested contained less protein than advertised. Even more concerning, the quality of the protein in most bars was often poor, impacting how well your body can absorb it. 

Researchers looked at information from a large online database of food products. They started with about 4,600 protein bars. Many of these bars were from the U.S., so it's likely that a lot of the 1,641 bars they ultimately tested are available where you shop. The researchers divided the bars into groups based on their protein type: 

<ul><li>Only plant protein (like from peas or rice)</li><li>Only animal protein (like from milk)</li><li>A mix of milk, egg, and soy protein</li><li>A mix of milk, collagen, and soy protein</li></ul>They then put the bars through a simulated digestion process to see how much protein the body would truly absorb. Here's what they found: 

<h4>Many bars weren't actually "high protein" </h4>

While most bars got at least 20% of their calories from protein, about one-fifth of them didn't. This standard is actually stricter than what our food authorities consider "good" or "excellent" sources of nutrients. 

<h4>Protein in some bars was hard to digest </h4>

How well the protein in the bars could be digested varied a lot, from less than half to over three-quarters. Surprisingly, some bars with proteins generally considered "high-quality" (like animal protein or soy) were harder to digest. High-quality proteins are important because they contain all the necessary building blocks your body can't make itself, and they're usually well-absorbed for muscle repair and growth. 

Because so many people are trying to eat more protein, it's easy to think all protein bars are healthy. But this new study shows an important truth: the overall nutrition of a food can't always be judged by just one thing, like its protein content. Even if a bar has good protein, your body might not fully use it. 

It's also worth remembering that protein bars are often highly processed. Eating a lot of these ultra-processed foods might be linked to health problems like a <span>higher risk of obesity</span>, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. 

On the other hand, for some people, protein bars can be very useful. If you have higher protein needs, or if your appetite isn't great (maybe due to medication or illness), a protein bar offers a convenient way to get a protein boost in a small serving. But even then, they shouldn't be your only protein source; they should be a supplement. 

For better quality protein in a less processed form, consider options like Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, hard-boiled eggs, jerky, nuts, and seeds. These also offer other good nutrients like calcium, healthy fats, and fiber. 

<h2>How to Pick a <span rel="noindex">Healthier Protein Bar</span> </h2>

If you still want to choose a protein bar, here are some tips: 

Even if other ingredients affect how well protein is digested, it's still smart to choose bars with more protein. Ideally, this protein should come from animal sources like whey or milk, or from plant sources like soy or pea. 

While there isn't a strict rule for "low" added sugars, it's recommended to keep your added sugar intake to less than 10% of your total daily calories. 

diet & nutrition

Protein Bars

are Protein Bars healthy

Protein Bars Are Not As Healthy

high Protein bars quality

Healthier Protein Bar

higher risk of obesity

When it comes to saving time, we have built many things, from quicker transportation to smart home appliances. These things reduce not just the process as well as the effort so that we can focus on more important things. Similarly, protein bars were not only an easy but also efficient way to get your daily nutrient intake. However, are they as healthy as they seem? Less Protein, Lower Quality? A new study published in Scientific Reports (Nature) raises questions about the actual nutritional value of many protein bars. The study found that a significant number of the 1,600+ bars tested contained less protein than advertised. Even more concerning, the quality of the protein in most bars was often poor, impacting how well your body can absorb it. What the Study Found?Researchers looked at information from a large online database of food products. They started with about 4,600 protein bars. Many of these bars were from the U.S., so it's likely that a lot of the 1,641 bars they ultimately tested are available where you shop. The researchers divided the bars into groups based on their protein type: Only plant protein (like from peas or rice)Only animal protein (like from milk)A mix of milk, egg, and soy proteinA mix of milk, collagen, and soy proteinThey then put the bars through a simulated digestion process to see how much protein the body would truly absorb. Here's what they found: Many bars weren't actually "high protein" While most bars got at least 20% of their calories from protein, about one-fifth of them didn't. This standard is actually stricter than what our food authorities consider "good" or "excellent" sources of nutrients. Protein in some bars was hard to digest How well the protein in the bars could be digested varied a lot, from less than half to over three-quarters. Surprisingly, some bars with proteins generally considered "high-quality" (like animal protein or soy) were harder to digest. High-quality proteins are important because they contain all the necessary building blocks your body can't make itself, and they're usually well-absorbed for muscle repair and growth. Protein Bars: Go or No Go Because so many people are trying to eat more protein, it's easy to think all protein bars are healthy. But this new study shows an important truth: the overall nutrition of a food can't always be judged by just one thing, like its protein content. Even if a bar has good protein, your body might not fully use it. It's also worth remembering that protein bars are often highly processed. Eating a lot of these ultra-processed foods might be linked to health problems like a higher risk of obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. On the other hand, for some people, protein bars can be very useful. If you have higher protein needs, or if your appetite isn't great (maybe due to medication or illness), a protein bar offers a convenient way to get a protein boost in a small serving. But even then, they shouldn't be your only protein source; they should be a supplement. For better quality protein in a less processed form, consider options like Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, hard-boiled eggs, jerky, nuts, and seeds. These also offer other good nutrients like calcium, healthy fats, and fiber. How to Pick a Healthier Protein Bar If you still want to choose a protein bar, here are some tips: Look for higher protein Even if other ingredients affect how well protein is digested, it's still smart to choose bars with more protein. Ideally, this protein should come from animal sources like whey or milk, or from plant sources like soy or pea. Check for low added sugar While there isn't a strict rule for "low" added sugars, it's recommended to keep your added sugar intake to less than 10% of your total daily calories. 

protein bars are not as healthy as you may think they are - avoid these components for future buys

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Why 'Old People' Have Body Odor? What Can They Eat To Prevent It?

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Why 'Old People' Have Body Odor? What Can They Eat To Prevent It?