EurekAlert! In the Spotlight

Welcome to In the Spotlight, where each month we shine a light on something exciting, timely, or simply fascinating from the world of science.

This month, we’re focusing on nutrition and the powerful role it plays in our lives. Here, we’ll share the latest research on how nutrients affect the body and brain, how scientists investigate diet and health, what these findings may mean for building healthier habits, and more.

Latest News Releases

Updates every hour. Last Updated: 9-Nov-2026 22:17 ET (10-Nov-2026 03:17 GMT/UTC)

15-Jun-2026

Can obesity make the brain age faster?

Virginia Tech
Grant and Award Announcement

Virginia Tech neuroscientist Timothy Jarome is investigating whether obesity may be accelerating the brain's aging process, contributing to earlier memory decline. Jarome, professor in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences’ School of Animal Sciences studies the molecular mechanisms behind memory disorders such as dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). His latest research is supported by a $410,000 grant from the National Institute on Aging.

15-Jun-2026

Looking for expert perspectives on the FIFA World Cup beyond match results and tactics?

University of Southern Denmark Faculty of Health Sciences

Researchers from the University of Southern Denmark offer insights into the psychological, physiological and performance-related factors that may influence the tournament.

13-Jun-2026

Sugar-free diets may disrupt gut microbiome

The Endocrine Society
Reports and Proceedings

Eliminating sugar from your diet may be more detrimental than previously thought, according to an animal study being presented Saturday at ENDO 2026, the Endocrine Society’s annual meeting in Chicago, Ill.

Meeting: ENDO 2026

12-Jun-2026

Gastric Residual Volume Assessment in Critically Ill Children

JAMA Network
Peer-Reviewed Publication

About The Study: Among critically ill children being enterally fed, not assessing gastric residual volume routinely was noninferior to regular assessments every 6 hours and significantly increased nutritional achievement at 72 hours.

Journal: JAMA

11-Jun-2026

Organism absorbs little of the minerals from nuts, points a study that simulated human digestion

Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo
Peer-Reviewed Publication

An experiment conducted at the Federal University of São Paulo showed that only a fraction of copper and magnesium present in Brazil nuts and cashews is rendered available by the human body.

Journal: Química Nova
Funder: Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo

11-Jun-2026

Consuming a moderate amount of carbs could lower cardiovascular risk while also keeping ‘bad’ cholesterol down

Texas A&M University

While high-carb diets are known to increase the risk of clogged arteries, heart disease and stroke, the benefits of low-carb diets are not as clear cut. Some studies have found that low-carb diets can improve these health markers, while others have found no such benefits or even that they increase heart disease risk.

Now, a study led by researchers with the Texas A&M University School of Public Health at Texas A&M Health adds a piece to the puzzle of why a diet that works for one person’s metabolism might send another person’s cholesterol levels skyrocketing.

The team’s analysis of studies involving nearly 11,500 adults in 27 countries found that moderate carb intake may offer the best long-term health outcomes.

Journal: American Journal of Clinical Nutrition

10-Jun-2026

Pennington Biomedical’s Dr. Corby Martin awarded LPFA Endowed Chair in Nutrition

Pennington Biomedical Research Center
Business Announcement

Pennington Biomedical Research Center’s Dr. Corby Martin has been named the Louisiana Public Facilities Authority (LPFA) Endowed Chair in Nutrition, a chair established through private donations matched by the Louisiana Board of Regents Support Fund. Dr. Martin was nominated by Pennington Biomedical leadership, with his appointment approved by the LPFA and Louisiana Board of Regents at its June meeting.

Dr. Martin is Associate Executive Director for Scientific Education and Director of the Ingestive Behavior Laboratory and the Human Phenotyping Core at Pennington Biomedical. As Associate Executive Director, Dr. Martin serves on the executive committee at LSU’s Pennington Biomedical Research Center and as the Center’s Chief Academic Officer, representing Pennington Biomedical on LSU’s Chief Academic Officer Committee.