Todays Newsbites

Grapefruit as a weight loss wonder is a bit of an urban legend, and scientific evidence to support it is scarce. A recent systematic review on the topic included three moderate-quality clinical trials with a total of 250 obese men and women.

Mandatory calorie labeling of menu items at chain restaurants (with at least 20 locations) goes into effect nationally in May 2017, and you're likely seeing some of this labeling now.

For every 30 minutes you spend in sedentary activity, such as watching TV or doing computer work, take a break for 3 to 5 minutes to do light activity, say new physical activity guidelines from the American Diabetes Association published in Diabetes Care.

You've probably heard oats helps lower cholesterol, which is due to their beta-glucan soluble fiber that makes oatmeal sticky. A new British Journal of Nutrition review of 58 clinical trials on oats that involved 3,974 people across the globe expands the role of oatmeal in reducing cardiovascular risk.

According to a recent analysis, 97% of studies that were independently funded (not sponsored by beverage makers) have reported that drinking sugary sodas is linked with obesity and diabetes.

Cranberry juice is touted for fending off urinary tract infections (UTIs), typically signaled by frequent, burning urination. However, results from clinical trials have been inconsistent. A new study published in JAMA failed to find a benefit.

What's in your sandwich? A new analysis of national nutrition survey data on more than 27,000 Americans suggests not paying attention to the nutrient facts on sandwiches could contribute to less-healthy eating.

Just 30 minutes of walking, five days a week, can save you $2,500 a year in medical costs, according to a new study of more than 26,000 people.

The US Department of Agriculture has made it easier for scientists and consumers to check out the nutritional characteristics of popular foods. The agency added a database of 80,000 name-brand packaged and prepared foods sold at supermarkets and restaurants to its existing almost 9,000-item National Nutrient Database.

Don't count on the "five-second rule" to keep dropped food free of bacteria. An exhaustive test of the notion that food touching the floor for no more than five seconds is still safe to eat debunked it with more than 2,500 measurements.