Nutrition

A new study led by a researcher at East Tennessee State University aims to tackle vitamin deficiencies that affect millions. With a $450,000 grant from a foundation focused on food and agriculture, the team uses machine learning and rapid robotic screening to boost the vitamin content of staple seeds, starting with soybeans. This work offers a practical path to healthier diets worldwide, including in Thailand.

For Thai audiences, the relevance is clear. Thailand has reduced severe malnutrition over the years, but micronutrient gaps—iron, vitamin A, and folate—persist among vulnerable groups such as rural children, pregnant women, and urban poor. These hidden deficiencies can stunt growth and lower productivity. Data from UNICEF Thailand underscores the priority of improving micronutrient intake in Southeast Asia, where rice-based diets often lack diversity.

Seeking ways to enhance intimacy, more Thais are exploring the role of dietary supplements in improving sexual health. According to a recent article published by EatingWell, health experts have identified four notable supplements—vitamin D, ashwagandha, nicotinamide riboside (NR), and L-arginine—as potential boosters for libido and sexual function. As Thailand, like much of the world, experiences increased conversation about sexual wellness and holistic health, understanding the evidence and context around these supplements is especially timely (EatingWell).

A surprising twist in the search for longer, healthier lives has surfaced, and it began not in a high-tech lab but among US Navy dolphins. Scientists studying age-related diseases in these marine mammals uncovered a fatty acid, known as C15:0, that’s now being recognized as a potential “longevity nutrient” for humans—with research suggesting this overlooked nutrient could play a crucial role in fighting everything from fatty liver disease to heart disease, diabetes, and even aging itself (IFLScience).

Chia seed water, recently dubbed the “internal shower” on global social media platforms like TikTok, is making headlines for its purported benefits on digestion and overall health. With millions of views and testimonials from enthusiastic users, this simple mixture of chia seeds and water claims to work wonders for gut health. But what does the science actually say, and what should Thai consumers realistically expect from this viral trend? As ever, the truth is nuanced—mixing nutritional promise, practical risks, and plenty of hype.

Chia seed water has exploded on social media as the so‑called “internal shower,” with many users praising improved digestion and steady energy. While the trend captures attention, Thai readers deserve a clear, fact‑based view of what science shows and how to approach it safely in daily life.

Chia seeds are popular in Thailand for their fiber, protein, and versatility in smoothies, puddings, and traditional desserts. The latest buzz focuses on a simple drink: chia seed water. Advocates claim it supports regularity, reduces cravings, and promotes energy stability, prompting curiosity about an easy dietary fix in a fast-paced society. Health professionals emphasize that evidence is nuanced and that moderation matters.

Demand for sexual wellness remains strong in Thailand, with many people seeking reliable guidance on supplements that may support desire and function. A recent health feature identifies four candidates—vitamin D, ashwagandha, nicotinamide riboside (NR), and L-arginine—as supplements frequently discussed in relation to libido. While interest grows, Thai readers deserve balanced context that blends science, tradition, and practical guidance.

In Thailand, traditional herbs such as black ginger and Cordyceps have long shaped approaches to vitality. Urban living, irregular work hours, and stress can affect sexual well-being for both men and women. Rather than chasing quick fixes, experts emphasize a holistic plan that prioritizes sleep, stress management, nutrition, physical activity, and open communication with partners. This grounded approach aligns with cultural values around balance and family well-being.

A groundbreaking study led by Dr. Tianhu Sun of East Tennessee State University (ETSU) aims to tackle one of the world’s most pervasive but invisible health issues: vitamin deficiencies. Armed with a $450,000 grant from the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research, Dr. Sun and his team are harnessing advanced genetic tools — including machine learning and high-throughput robotic screening — to enhance the vitamin content of staple crop seeds, starting with soybeans. This innovative approach promises realistic, sustainable solutions for improving the nutrient profile of everyday foods worldwide, a change that could echo meaningfully in Thailand and beyond (SciTechDaily).

A surprising development in the quest for healthier aging comes from an unlikely source: dolphins studied by researchers at a U.S. Navy facility. Scientists found that a fatty acid called C15:0 may act as a longevity nutrient for humans, potentially helping prevent fatty liver disease, heart disease, diabetes, and age-related decline. Research points to C15:0 as a nutrient we may need to consider more carefully in diets and supplements.

For Thai readers, this topic matters beyond science headlines. In The Longevity Nutrient: The Unexpected Fat That Holds the Key to Healthy Aging, researchers describe how dolphins with higher C15:0 levels tended to maintain better metabolic health. The fatty acid is present in some marine foods and, importantly, in whole-fat dairy products like milk and butter, suggesting practical dietary avenues to explore.

Fresh research turns conventional wisdom on its head, revealing that several so-called “bad” foods—often avoided in the quest for heart health—can actually play powerful roles in lowering cholesterol. This insight, highlighted in a recent report from EatingWell (April 2025), is backed by global scientific literature and offers new hope for patients managing high cholesterol in Thailand and around the world (EatingWell). Understanding these foods and how they can fit into a Thai diet is an important step in tackling the nation’s high rate of coronary heart disease.

Shopping today often feels like navigating a marketing contest as much as choosing groceries. Labels such as “heart healthy,” “high in protein,” and “low-carb” appear on everything from yogurt to granola bars. New research and regulatory scrutiny suggest these claims are sometimes more about sales than substance, prompting consumers and authorities to reassess how healthy processed foods really are.

Why this matters for Thailand. Diet-related health issues—rising obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease—are shaping health outcomes across Asia. As more Thais rely on convenient, processed foods, marketing tactics can influence public health efforts. For shoppers trying to make informed choices, front-of-pack claims can be misleading or confusing, masking the true nutritional quality of products.

Fresh findings challenge the idea that certain foods are unequivocally “bad” for cholesterol. A recent trend in global research shows that some commonly avoided items can support cholesterol management when included as part of a balanced diet. This perspective aligns with Thailand’s health goals as communities address rising rates of coronary heart disease and seek practical, culturally relevant nutrition guidance.

Cholesterol remains a key health concern. High levels of LDL, the so-called “bad” cholesterol, can clog arteries and raise the risk of heart attack and stroke. At the same time, HDL, the “good” cholesterol, helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream. Thailand’s public health messaging traditionally emphasizes reducing saturated fats, processed foods, and added sugars. Yet nuanced evidence suggests that selective inclusion of certain foods can contribute to better cholesterol control when paired with overall healthy lifestyle choices.

A recent study from the University of Reading suggests a tiny morning tweak can sharpen thinking for the day ahead. Eating a handful of walnuts with breakfast improved reaction times and memory performance in healthy young adults. The researchers found that memory benefits emerged later in the day, strengthening the case for nuts as a practical brain boost.

For Thai readers, where commutes, classes, and busy workdays demand sustained mental sharpness, this finding is especially relevant. Cognitive lapses are often chalked up to sleep, stress, or distractions. This study indicates a straightforward dietary adjustment could help students and professionals stay alert throughout their routines.

Protein has long been crowned the “macronutrient king”—the building block behind strong muscles, healthy skin, shiny hair, and a satisfied, full feeling after meals. Yet even as high-protein diets trend on social media and more Thais opt for protein shakes or add an extra egg to their khao tom, new research and expert advice reveal that it’s surprisingly easy to fall short on daily protein needs, and the effects may be more subtle—and more important—than most people realise source.

Berberine, a plant compound rising in popularity, has earned the nickname “nature’s Ozempic.” Thai health seekers and practitioners are taking note as it’s championed for weight management, diabetes support, and cholesterol reduction. New studies are turning attention to its potential, but Thai readers deserve clear, expert guidance on benefits, risks, and practical use.

As health awareness grows in Thailand, berberine shows up in pharmacies, wellness shops, and online marketplaces. Influencers and international coverage often emphasize weight loss, linking berberine to effects similar to semaglutide. Thai health authorities caution consumers to separate marketing from evidence, especially before adding berberine to daily routines.

Berberine, a plant compound gaining global popularity and recently dubbed “nature’s Ozempic,” is capturing the attention of health-conscious Thais and practitioners alike. Marketed as a supplement for everything from weight loss and diabetes to cholesterol reduction, this herbal extract is now backed by a wave of recent scientific studies. But does the hype stand up to clinical scrutiny, and what should Thai consumers and healthcare providers know before jumping on the trend? Drawing on the latest research and expert opinions, we untangle the facts, the risks, and the promise of berberine for Thailand’s growing health-supplement market.

As probiotics continue to line the shelves of Bangkok supermarkets and pharmacies, more Thai consumers—สุขภาพดีอยู่แล้ว—are asking: should I be adding these “good bacteria” to my daily routine, or is a fibre-rich ผักและผลไม้ diet enough for a healthy gut? The newest research, including a comprehensive 2024 review in Advances in Nutrition, brings clarity to the probiotic puzzle, offering practical advice amidst the booming global wellness trend.

For Thailand, where fermented foods like น้ำพริก, เต้าเจี้ยว, and yogurt-based drinks are everyday staples, the appeal of packaged probiotics is both a product of globalization and increased health consciousness. Advertisements promise improved digestion, better immunity, enhanced mood, and even weight management, but what does the science say about real benefits for already healthy people? And how does this apply to the Thai lifestyle, richly intertwined with traditional diets and home remedies?

The sizzling question of whether cooking with olive oil destroys its precious nutrients has long lingered in Thai kitchens, especially as more families embrace olive oil for both flavor and health. A recent interview with food scientist Jessica Gavin, featured in an article published April 14, 2025, by EatingWell, unpacks the science and sets the record straight: while cooking does cause some nutrient loss—mainly antioxidants—olive oil remains one of the healthiest and most versatile fats for everyday use, so long as it’s used within recommended temperature limits (EatingWell).

Strolling down the aisles of any modern supermarket, shoppers from Bangkok to Buriram are awash in attractive food packaging touting claims like “heart healthy,” “high in protein,” or “low-carb.” But intriguing new research and regulatory discussions are challenging whether these tempting promises really hold up—and how consumers in Thailand and worldwide might be misled by what’s known as “nutriwashing” or “healthwashing” Yahoo.

What is nutriwashing? Marketers routinely use buzzwords like “natural,” “gluten-free,” and “immune-boosting” to confer a health halo on processed foods. Yet, as Lindsay Malone, a registered dietician and nutrition instructor at Case Western Reserve University, tells Yahoo Life, “These claims influence consumer decisions by creating the illusion of healthiness, leading shoppers to choose products they believe are better for them when, in reality, they may still be highly processed and nutritionally poor.” Her warning echoes international studies that found many foods labeled as “high in protein” or “whole grain” may contain surprisingly high levels of sugar, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives PubMed, 2024.

A robust new clinical trial has revealed that fish oil supplements deliver higher levels of vital omega-3 fatty acids to the body compared to eating fish, challenging the long-standing notion that whole foods are always superior to supplements for nutrient intake (Good News Network). The study, recently published in the British Journal of Nutrition, provides fresh evidence that could influence dietary advice in Thailand, where cardiovascular disease and other non-communicable diseases continue to pose significant public health threats.

A growing question in Thai homes is whether cooking with olive oil drains its nutrients. A recent interview with food scientist Jessica Gavin, referenced in an EatingWell article from April 14, 2025, clarifies the science: heating can cause some nutrient loss—especially antioxidants—but olive oil remains among the healthiest fats for daily use when kept within recommended temperatures.

Olives oil’s popularity isn’t limited to the West. In Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and other cities, households are swapping pork lard or palm oil for olive oil in cooking and dressings. The appeal lies in heart health support, reduced inflammation, and alignment with the Mediterranean diet—often cited for longevity. Yet many Thai cooks wonder if high-heat methods like stir-frying or deep-frying strip olive oil of its benefits.

A new clinical trial suggests that high-quality fish oil supplements can raise omega-3 levels in the body more effectively than consuming fish alone. Published in the British Journal of Nutrition, the study challenges the long-held belief that whole foods are always superior for nutrient intake and could influence dietary guidance in Thailand, where cardiovascular disease remains a major public health concern.

Historically, Thai and Western nutritionists have emphasized getting nutrients primarily from a varied diet rooted in local cuisine. The study, however, used a double-blind, placebo-controlled design to compare groups with different combinations of fish and omega-3 supplements. After 12 weeks, researchers observed meaningful increases in omega-3 biomarkers only in the group taking supplements, while fish consumption alone did not produce the same effect.

Probiotic shelves are ubiquitous in Bangkok’s supermarkets and pharmacies. Many Thai shoppers wonder whether adding “good bacteria” to daily routines is necessary, or if a fibre-rich diet of Thai fruits and vegetables suffices for a healthy gut. A comprehensive 2024 review in Advances in Nutrition clarifies where probiotics can help and where they may not.

In Thailand, fermented foods like น้ำพริก, เต้าเจี้ยว, and yogurt-based drinks are everyday staples. The appeal of packaged probiotic products reflects both globalization and rising health awareness. Advertisements promise better digestion, stronger immunity, improved mood, and weight management. Yet scientific findings emphasize benefits mainly in specific situations, not as a universal boost for healthy individuals. This nuance matters for a culture deeply rooted in traditional diets and home remedies.

Shoppers across Thailand are bombarded with labels like “heart healthy,” “high in protein,” and “low-carb.” New research and regulatory debates question whether these claims are trustworthy and how they influence buying decisions. In many cases, the marketing buzzwords create a health halo that may mislead consumers about the true nutritional value of the product.

Nutriwashing, a term gaining traction worldwide, describes how marketers sprinkle health-oriented terms onto processed foods. A registered dietitian at Case Western Reserve University notes that such claims can steer people toward products they believe are healthier, even when those items are highly processed. International studies echo this concern, showing that some “high in protein” or “whole grain” labels accompany high sugar, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives.

Protein has long been hailed as the macronutrient that builds muscle, supports skin and hair health, and keeps you full between meals. Yet new findings show it’s surprisingly easy to fall short of daily needs, with effects that may be subtle but important for well-being. For busy Thais juggling work and study, these gaps can creep in, especially as diets lean toward convenience foods that are higher in carbohydrates and lower in protein.