Among the many developments in the health sector, even in the UK, a new development is the launch of an advisory board to improve food security. UK has launched a new Food Strategy Advisory Board (FSAB) to improve food security, public health, and sustainability. It has brought government ministers, industry leaders and experts from the food sector together to develop policies to ensure a more resilient and healthier food system.

The FSAB is chaired by Daniel Zeichner MP, who is the minister of state for food security and rural affairs. It also includes other key figures like Professor Chris Whitty from the Department of Health and Social Care, Simon Roberts from Sainsbury’s, Anna Taylor from the Food Foundation, and Tim Smith from Cranswick. These representatives are leading food manufacturers, retailers, and research institutions, which will eventually contribute their expertise to shape a comprehensive food strategy. The aim is to balance nutrition, sustainability, and industry needs.

Similar Plans Elsewhere

In the US too, the government through agencies like the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) promotes healthy eating plans. There are also resources like the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025 and the MyPlate.gov, which emphasizes on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein while limited saturated and trans fats, sodium, and added sugars.

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans is also updated every 5 years, which provides evidence-based guidance on healthy eating patterns, including Healthy US-style Eating Pattern, and Healthy Mediterranean-style Eating Pattern.

On the MyPlate website, the USDA has developed resources which provides a visual guide to healthy eating. It also emphasizes on the importance of making half your plate fruits and vegetables, choosing whole grains, and using lean protein sources. It also offers personalized plans based on individual needs, and helps users understand how much to eat from each food group.

The Healthy Eating Plate available on The Nutrition Source also provides a visual representation of a balanced plate, with emphasis on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. DASH Eating Plan, which is developed by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) is designed to lower blood pressure and emphasizes on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting saturated fats and sodium.

What Will FSAB Do?

The plan for FSAB is also similar to frame the food policy in a way that could promote healthy eating habits among the population. It is also part of a wider effort to create a coordinated approach to food policy across government and industry. The FSAB will work alongside the Food and Drink Sector Council and engage with trade bodies such as the National Farmers Union, Food and Drink Federation, UK Hospitality, and the British Retail Consortium.

In fact, a new ministerial good strategy group has been established which includes ministers from various departments to look after the strong political leadership and align food policies along the different sectors.

The FSAB is set to meet for its first meeting in the coming week and the board will also hold roundtables and academics and citizen engagement sessions to ensure that food policy decisions reflect both expert and public needs.

Karela, or bitter gourd, is undoubtedly one of the most hated vegetables in the world. Called momordica charantia by the scientific community, this vegetable is infamous for its bitter taste and is used in Asian, African and Carribean cuisines. Lesser known is the fact that for centuries, it has been cherished in traditional medicine due to its powerful effects on the body. Interestingly, this vegetable traces its origin to India.

While its health benefits are known across the world, there is empirical evidence to testify that drinking its juice every day can help people control diabetes. Bitter Gourd contains compounds such as charantin and polypeptide-p that mimic insulin activity. These properties can contribute to improved blood sugar regulation. The vibrant green veggie is also rich in antioxidants, which help combat free radicals and may reduce oxidative stress.

A study published in the International Journal of Molecular Science in February 2023 suggests that it contains bioactive compounds with hypoglycemic properties that help regulate blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. These compounds may work through multiple mechanisms, such as improving insulin sensitivity and reducing glucose absorption.

There are other studies to support the same. However, these studies on the effects of bitter gourd have limitations, including small sample sizes and inconsistent methodologies. More rigorous clinical trials are needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety. Despite this, bitter gourd remains a promising natural and cost-effective.

However, many studies on the effects of bitter gourd have limitations, including small sample sizes and inconsistent methodologies. More rigorous clinical trials are needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety.

What Are Other Benefits Of Bitter Gourd?

One of the most well-known benefits of bitter gourd is that it is rich in dietary fibre, which aids digestion and slows the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream. This helps to prevent spikes in glucose levels after meals. Bitter gourd is also rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the body. This can be particularly beneficial in preventing chronic diseases such as heart disease and certain types of cancer. Additionally, the vegetable's high fibre content aids in digestion, promoting regular bowel movements and helping to cleanse the digestive tract. It can also help with weight management by providing a feeling of fullness and reducing overall calorie intake.

The bitter compounds in bitter gourd, particularly momordicin, have also been shown to support liver health by enhancing the production of bile, which is essential for digesting fats. This detoxifying effect can improve liver function and overall metabolic health. Moreover, bitter gourd has been found to have antimicrobial properties, which can help fight off infections. It also boosts the immune system, making the body more resilient against illness.

From fruit snacks to juice boxes, sugary foods are deeply ingrained in modern childhood. We cannot think of our childhood without sweets, desserts and candies. This is also when many parents unknowingly introduce their children to excessive sugar early on. They do not realize the long-term health implications it bears. However, thanks to the emerging research, it has now brought into light that the first 1,000 days of life, starting from conception, are crucial in shaping a child's health, including their risk for chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension.

What Is The Link Between Early Sugar Intake And Chronic Disease

Last year, in journal Science was published that analyzed historical data from World War II-era Britain. This was when sugar was rationed. It was led by economist Tadeja Gracner, the research found that individuals who experienced early-life sugar restrictions had significantly lower rates of Type 2 diabetes and hypertension later in life.

Using the data from UK Biobank, researchers have examined the health records of over 60,000 individuals born between 1951 and 1956. The findings revealed:

• A 35% lower risk of Type 2 diabetes and a delay in disease onset by four years.
• A 20% lower risk of hypertension and a delay in disease onset by two years.

Higher sugar consumption post-rationing was linked to increased inflammation, poor metabolic health, and a greater likelihood of conditions like high cholesterol and arthritis.

Why Is Early Nutrition Important For Health?

A pediatric obesity specialist at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Robert Seigel emphasized that nutrition in the womb and early childhood plays a defining role in long term health. “You are not only what you eat, you are what your mom eats,” he explains. Early exposure to high sugar levels can influence taste preference, it makes children more likely to crave and consume sugary foods throughout life.

Gracner's research also supports this and suggests that individuals who consumed less sugar in early childhood may develop a reduced preference for sweetness. It could potentially lower their lifelong sugar intake.

What Is The Impact Of Sugar?

As per the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and Mayo Clinic has highlighted the importance of avoiding added sugars, which are also commonly found in processed foods such as pasta sauces, crackers, and packaged drinks. Unlike naturally occurring sugars in fruits and dairy, added sugars like high fructose corn syrup, sucrose and glucose are also linked to weight gain, metabolic issues and disorders, and insulin resistance.

The AAP also notes that sugar constitutes around 17% of children's daily diets, which means sugar drink accounts for half of that intake. In order to promote better health among children, AAP recommended:

• No added sugar for children under 2 years.
• Less than 25 grams (about 6 teaspoons) of added sugar per day for children over 2.

Following the National Dietary Guidelines, which advise keeping added sugar intake below 10% of total daily calories at any age.

There is also a "95210" guideline that is developed by Dr Alicia Hartung, also recommended by Pediatric Seven Abelowitz that provides practical steps for parents:

• 9 hours of sleep per night
• 5 servings of fruits and vegetables daily
• 2 hours or less of screen time
• 1 hour of physical activity
• 0 sugary drinks

Sea moss (Chondrus crispus), commonly known as Irish moss, is a type of red algae that grows along the Atlantic coasts of Europe and North America. It has gained popularity for its potential health benefits, particularly for immune support, thyroid function, gut health, and heart health. Available in gel, powder, and supplement forms, sea moss is rich in essential nutrients like iodine, making it a valued addition to many diets. However, while it offers numerous benefits, it also comes with certain risks.

Potential Health Benefits of Sea Moss

Boosts Immune Function

Sea moss is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C and D, which support immune health. Some studies suggest that its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties may help the body fight infections, though further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.

Supports Thyroid Health

The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, and sea moss provides iodine, a key mineral required for the production of thyroid hormones. Adequate iodine intake can help maintain thyroid function and prevent conditions like hypothyroidism.

Promotes Gut Health

As a source of prebiotics, sea moss can nourish beneficial gut bacteria, aiding digestion and overall gut health. Prebiotics support a balanced microbiome, which is essential for metabolic processes and immune function.

Enhances Libido

Sea moss contains zinc, a mineral known for its role in hormone production and sexual health. Additionally, its iodine content helps regulate thyroid function, which can influence libido and energy levels.

May Help Prevent Parkinson’s Disease

Some preliminary research suggests that sea moss contains compounds that may protect brain cells. An animal study indicated that sea moss extracts helped improve dopamine-producing cell function in worms, potentially offering insights into neurodegenerative disease prevention. However, human studies are necessary to validate these findings.

Provides Essential Nutrients

Sea moss is a rich source of various vitamins and minerals, including calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, and vitamins A, C, D, E, and K. While some claims suggest it contains 92 essential nutrients, more research is needed to confirm its exact nutritional composition and bioavailability.

Supports Heart Health

Sea moss is high in soluble fiber, which aids digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate cholesterol levels. By reducing LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, it may lower the risk of heart disease. Additionally, its antioxidant properties help combat oxidative stress, which contributes to cardiovascular issues.

Nutritional Profile

Two teaspoons of sea moss provide:

Calories: 4.9

Carbohydrates: 1.2 g

Fiber: 0.1 g

Protein: 0.2 g

Sodium: 6.7 mg

Fat: 0.02 g

Potential Risks of Sea Moss Consumption

Heavy Metal Contamination

Sea moss may absorb heavy metals like arsenic and mercury if harvested from polluted waters. While levels are generally low, regular consumption from unregulated sources could pose health risks.

Excessive Iodine Intake

Consuming too much sea moss can lead to excessive iodine intake, disrupting thyroid function. Both iodine deficiency and excess can cause thyroid disorders, including hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Consulting a healthcare provider can help determine safe consumption levels.

How to Incorporate Sea Moss into Your Diet

Blend sea moss powder into smoothies, teas, or juices.

Add it to soups, stews, or baked goods.

Sprinkle dried sea moss over yogurt or oatmeal.

Sea moss is a nutrient-dense superfood with potential health benefits for immunity, thyroid health, gut function, and heart health. However, due to its iodine content and potential contamination risks, it should be consumed in moderation. Before adding sea moss supplements to your diet, consult a healthcare professional to ensure safe and effective usage.