1.
Food Crops: Nutrient Fluctuations and Malnutrition
As the pioneer and global leader of Functional Medicine, the Institute of Functional Medicine leads and catalyses the efforts of a large and expanding Functional Medicine ecosystem, including providers, educators, payers, industry leaders, regulators, and influencers.
2022
Abstract
This article provides an insight into fluctuating nutrient levels within our food crops and why this might be happening, delving into the impact of climate change and farming methods on soil quality and subsequent nutrient availability. Research appears to be limited with respect to the level of pesticide exposure and health outcomes in organic food versus conventional food, but what has been noted is higher levels of polyphenols in organic crops which can reduce the risk of a wide range of chronic diseases. Having an awareness of the relationship between environmental change, food crops and human health can help practitioners to navigate the increasingly complex and hot topic of food sustainability with their clients.
2.
Health benefits of dark chocolate and how much you should eat
ZOE is revolutionising personalised nutrition, combining large-scale human studies with machine learning technology, microbiome sequencing and collaboration with leading scientists around the world. Their vision is to unlock the power of science and help everyone understand their body and their own unique responses to food.
2022
Abstract
This article from the ZOE team looks at the potential health benefits of dark chocolate. Evidence claims that nutrients and antioxidants in cocoa (particularly flavanols) can support gut health, improve cardiovascular health and cholesterol levels, balance insulin production and sensitivity, promote healthier skin and even improve mood and brain function. The jury’s still out regarding the quantity and percentage cocoa content required to see these health benefits but choosing moderate amounts (studies performed typically gave participants a maximum of 20g/day) of minimally processed, high quality (ideally organic) dark chocolate that is at least 70% cocoa seems to be the sweet spot!