School scheme unable to boost healthy eating and activity among kids

A school-based scheme to encourage children to eat healthily and be active has had little effect, conclude researchers in a study published on bmj.com today.

Probiotics do not help infants with colic

Giving probiotics to infants with colic does not appear to have any benefit, according to a large trial published on bmj.com.These findings differ from previous smaller trials and do not support a general recommendation for the use of probiotics to treat colic in infants.

Mother’s diet linked to premature birth

Pregnant women who eat a “prudent” diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains and who drink water have a significantly reduced risk of preterm delivery, suggests a study published on bmj.com.A “traditional” dietary pattern of boiled potatoes, fish and cooked vegetables was also linked to a significantly lower risk.

Clearer labels needed on drugs containing animal products

Patients with specific dietary restrictions may be unwittingly taking medicines containing animal products, suggests an article published on bmj.com.Dr Kinesh Patel and Dr Kate Tatham say most medications prescribed in primary care contain animal derived products and it is unclear whether they are suitable for vegetarians.

High-fiber diet linked to lower risk of heart disease

We may have heard it before, but the benefits of eating a healthy diet – with plenty of fiber and fresh vegetables – lie not only in a more lithesome figure, but may also contribute to general heart health, according to new research from the University of Leeds in the UK.The research, published on bmj.

Physical inactivity, poor diet and smoking linked to disability in older population

An unhealthy lifestyle is associated with a greater likelihood of developing disability over the age of 65, with the risk increasing progressively with the number of unhealthy behaviours, suggests a paper published on bmj.com today.

High Fiber Diet Reduces Colorectal Cancer Risk

A new study published on bmj.com demonstrates that eating high- fiber diet, particularly cereal and whole grains, is linked to a reduced risk of colorectal cancer. Worldwide, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer, with 1.2 million new cases diagnosed every year…

It’s Official Chocolate Linked To Heart Health

High levels of chocolate consumption might be associated with a one third reduction in the risk of developing heart disease, finds a study published on bmj.com today. The findings confirm results of existing studies that generally agree on a potential beneficial link between chocolate consumption and heart health…

Study Adds Weight To Link Between Calcium Supplements And Heart Problems

New research published on bmj.com today adds to mounting evidence that calcium supplements increase the risk of cardiovascular events, particularly heart attacks, in older women. The findings suggest that their use in managing osteoporosis should be re-assessed.