#Nutrition

A recent review by US-based registered dietitians places spinach at the forefront of dietary strategies to reduce visceral fat, the deep belly fat that increases risk for diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers (EatingWell). This finding offers practical guidance for Thai readers invested in combating chronic diseases closely tied to rising obesity rates. The review echoes growing global evidence that a combination of healthy eating habits and lifestyle changes can help tackle a silent health risk affecting millions across Southeast Asia—including Thailand.

A growing body of science points to vitamin D as important for heart health. A new summary of research suggests vitamin D may lower stroke risk by up to 17% for people already on heart medications. This insight could influence how Thai communities think about preventing cardiovascular disease.

The review, published in Nutrients and summarized by a health media outlet, examines recent studies on vitamin D levels and cardiovascular events. The headline takeaway: among patients taking heart medications, vitamin D supplementation was linked with a 13% to 17% lower risk of major cardiovascular incidents, including stroke. Experts emphasize that while vitamin D’s role in bone health and immune function is well established, its additional impact on cardiovascular and metabolic health merits closer attention.

New research highlighted during World Infertility Awareness Month and reported by mainstream outlets has shed light on five modifiable lifestyle factors that may quietly affect men’s reproductive health. As Thai families increasingly seek answers to fertility challenges, these findings offer practical guidance for personal wellness and future family planning.

While infertility discussions often spotlight women, experts emphasize that male factors contribute to roughly one third of global cases. Sperm quantity, quality, and hormone regulation can be influenced by daily choices. With nearly 186 million people affected by infertility worldwide and a substantial share related to male health, understanding these risks remains urgent. Data from leading researchers suggests obesity, smoking, poor diet, environmental exposures, and stress are key drivers of compromised fertility.

A groundbreaking new study from the Japan Institute for Health Security has found that adults adhering to a traditional Japanese-style diet experience significantly lower rates of depressive symptoms. The research, the first of its kind conducted at this scale in Japan, could have important ramifications for public health and workplace mental wellness initiatives both in Thailand and worldwide.

The relevance of these findings is especially sharp for Thai readers. With depression rates steadily rising in Thailand and across Asia, understanding the role of diet in mental well-being may offer a practical and culturally adaptable path toward prevention. Modern Thai society, like Japan, is facing rapid urbanization, social isolation, and dietary shifts that impact both physical and mental health. As Thais increasingly adopt processed and Westernized eating habits, this new evidence spotlights the potential power of returning to traditional foodways.

New research highlights two minerals—magnesium and chromium—as potential partners in preventing high blood sugar and type 2 diabetes. Health professionals say diets rich in these minerals can improve insulin sensitivity and help manage blood glucose before insulin therapy becomes necessary. This is especially relevant for Thailand, where urbanization is linked to rising non-communicable diseases and where practical, nutrition-based prevention resonates with many communities.

Thailand faces a “silent epidemic” of diabetes, with public health data estimating more than 5 million affected. Type 2 diabetes is the majority, closely tied to lifestyle and dietary patterns. This mirrors trends in many countries, including the United Kingdom, where most adult diabetes cases are type 2. The latest research on magnesium and chromium offers Thai health authorities a chance to promote practical dietary guidance as a frontline defense against growing diabetes rates.

A growing body of research suggests that vitamin D, often known as the “sunshine vitamin,” may play a significant role in lowering the risk of major cardiovascular events, including stroke. According to a new narrative review published in the journal Nutrients and reported by EatingWell (eatingwell.com), regular supplementation of vitamin D could reduce the risk of stroke by up to 17%. This revelation is especially relevant for Thai readers, given the high prevalence of heart disease and stroke in Thailand and Southeast Asia, where diet, lifestyle, and even cultural attitudes toward sun exposure can influence vitamin D status.

Emerging research findings, highlighted during World Infertility Awareness Month and recently reported by ABC News, have thrust male infertility into the public spotlight, identifying five modifiable lifestyle factors that could be quietly undermining men’s reproductive health. As families across Thailand increasingly seek answers to fertility challenges, these latest insights carry crucial implications both for personal wellness and for future generations.

Although infertility discussions often focus on women, specialists estimate that male factors significantly contribute to around a third of all cases worldwide (ABC News). “When we think about fertility, there’s a lot of focus placed on females,” noted an ABC medical contributor. “But male issues can include problems with sperm volume or quality, congenital obstructions, infections, and various underlying medical conditions.” With nearly 186 million people globally affected by infertility—half of whom face male-related issues—the urgency of understanding male-specific risks has never been greater (Tesarik, 2025; Amoah et al., 2025; WHO 2025).

A new report highlights the under-recognized symptoms of vitamin D deficiency, a common but often neglected health concern that affects millions worldwide, including a growing number of Thais. With many people staying indoors, relying on processed foods, and living busy urban lifestyles, the classic “sunshine vitamin” is in short supply for large segments of the population—sometimes with serious health consequences (Times of India).

Vitamin D is essential not only for bone health but also for crucial roles in immunity, muscle strength, mood regulation, and even skin and dental repair. Yet, according to the latest research and clinical practice, most people fail to connect vague daily symptoms to an underlying deficiency—potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. As lifestyles in Thai cities become more sedentary and sun exposure limited, public health experts warn that vitamin D deficiency may become a growing silent epidemic, especially among office workers, the elderly, and those with limited access to outdoor spaces.

The conventional wisdom that all high-fat foods are unhealthy is being challenged by nutritionists, as fresh research and expert guidance highlight the benefits of incorporating certain so-called “bad” fats—including whole eggs, full-fat dairy, butter, and coconut oil—into a balanced diet. These recommendations, based on recent dietitian insights, are changing the way Thai consumers should think about fat, flavor, and nutrition.

For decades, low-fat products dominated supermarket shelves in Thailand and worldwide, driven by public health campaigns and a lingering fear of cholesterol and heart disease. The 1980s and 1990s popularized low-fat snacks and skimmed dairy, often at the expense of taste and satiety. Today, however, scientists and dietitians agree that dietary fat is an essential macronutrient—it supports brain function, hormone production, and the absorption of vital fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K). As such, not all fats are to be feared; instead, consumers are encouraged to pay close attention to the type and amount of fat in their meals (EatingWell).

A shift is underway in Thai nutrition guidance as experts challenge the blanket view that all fats are harmful. Fresh research and professional advice now emphasize that certain fats—when eaten in sensible portions—can support brain function, hormone balance, and nutrient absorption. The takeaway for Thai readers is to focus on the type and amount of fat within diverse, minimally processed meals.

For decades, low-fat products and skimmed dairy dominated shelves in Thailand and beyond. Public health campaigns tied fat to heart disease and cholesterol concerns. Today, nutritionists argue that fat is a vital macronutrient. It helps brain health, supports hormonal production, and aids the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. The emphasis is on choosing high-quality fats rather than eliminating fat entirely.

A growing body of evidence points to a simple food as an ally against stubborn belly fat: spinach. Dietitians cited in a recent consumer feature highlight that regular intake of this leafy green may help reduce visceral fat—the dangerous fat stored around internal organs linked to diabetes, heart disease, metabolic syndrome, and certain cancers.

This development is especially relevant for Thai readers. Thailand has seen rising rates of metabolic health issues and obesity over the past decade. Public health authorities warn that central obesity is a major risk factor for non-communicable diseases. Since visceral fat is more metabolically active than subcutaneous fat, reducing it is a priority for improving national health.

A growing body of research now points to a surprising hero in the battle against stubborn belly fat: spinach. According to dietitians cited in a recent feature by EatingWell, regularly including this leafy green in your diet may help reduce visceral fat, the harmful type of fat stored deep within the abdomen that is closely linked with chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, metabolic syndrome, and certain cancers (EatingWell).

A new wave of research shines a spotlight on two naturally occurring minerals—magnesium and chromium—commonly found in certain superfoods, as potential allies in the fight against high blood sugar and type 2 diabetes. Health experts and recent meta-analyses suggest that diets rich in these minerals can significantly reduce insulin resistance and help manage blood sugar levels before insulin therapy becomes necessary. This development is particularly relevant in Thailand, where the urbanization-driven rise in non-communicable diseases such as type 2 diabetes mirrors global trends, and dietary adjustments are seen as a practical, preventive strategy (getsurrey.co.uk).

A major study by the Japan Institute for Health Security shows that adults who follow a traditional Japanese-style diet report fewer depressive symptoms. This large-scale research marks a turning point in understanding how everyday eating patterns can influence mental health in both workplace and community settings.

For Thai readers, the findings offer timely relevance. Depression is rising in Thailand and across Asia, making practical dietary strategies increasingly appealing. Like Japan, Thai society is navigating urban living, social change, and evolving food habits. This study highlights the potential impact of returning to nutrient-rich, traditional foods in supporting mental well-being.

A growing wave of research suggests that vitamin D, the so-called “sunshine vitamin,” may influence cardiovascular health and stroke risk. A recent narrative review in the journal Nutrients reports that regular vitamin D supplementation could reduce stroke risk by up to 17%. For Thai audiences, this finding is meaningful given the country’s high burden of heart disease and stroke and the ways lifestyle, diet, and sun exposure influence vitamin D status.

Vitamin D deficiency is a global health concern that now touches many Thai households. With more urban living, indoor work, and busy schedules, the so-called sunshine vitamin is often in short supply. Public health experts warn that this silent trend could grow if awareness and screening do not keep pace with changing lifestyles. Data from Thailand’s public health system shows urban residents, older adults, and those with limited outdoor access are at higher risk.

From kitchen tables to the latest nutritional research, attitudes toward dietary fat are shifting dramatically. A recent article published in The Independent explores this transformation, illuminating how the longstanding beliefs about fat—once maligned as a dietary villain—are being reconsidered in light of new scientific evidence and cultural trends. In Thailand, where food culture and health policies intersect, this evolving global conversation resonates deeply, prompting both local consumers and public health officials to ask: should fat be back on the menu—and if so, in what form?

A growing consensus among gut health experts points to psyllium husk as one of the most effective supplements to promote regular bowel movements. Derived from Plantago ovata seeds, this natural fiber not only eases constipation but also supports overall gut health. For Thai readers, rising constipation rates and fiber-poor diets make psyllium husk a timely option to consider alongside traditional dietary changes.

Constipation remains a common challenge worldwide, including in Thailand, where lifestyle shifts have led to more digestive complaints. Thai hospitals report that low dietary fiber, insufficient hydration, and reduced physical activity contribute to the problem. Medical professionals commonly recommend increasing fiber intake, drinking more water, and staying active. When these measures fall short, psyllium husk is frequently explored as a gentle, evidence-based aid.

Experts are giving renewed attention to psyllium husk as the best supplement to promote regular bowel movements, according to new research and consensus among gut health professionals. This natural fiber, derived from the seeds of the Plantago ovata plant, has been proven not only to ease constipation but to support comprehensive gut health, offering a solution that is increasingly relevant for Thai readers as constipation rates rise and fiber-deficient diets become more common.

A global shift in how fats are viewed is now echoing in Thai kitchens and public health discussions. A recent analysis in The Independent traces a move away from demonizing fat toward embracing whole, natural fats. In Thailand, where culture and health policy meet at the dining table, this conversation prompts both consumers and health authorities to ask: what fats belong in a healthy Thai diet?

For decades, health guidance urged low-fat eating, linking fat—especially saturated fat—to heart disease and obesity. Supermarket shelves filled with low-fat yogurts, margarine, and “light” products. Many of these products replaced fat with sugars and refined starches, unintentionally worsening metabolic issues like diabetes and obesity. As one nutritional therapist highlighted in coverage, many low-fat options are highly processed and rely on added sugars and refined carbs, which can raise cravings and disrupt blood sugar. The emphasis, she noted, should be on whole foods with natural fats rather than processed, low-fat substitutes.

Fresh research has stirred excitement among health enthusiasts and scientists alike, suggesting that your morning coffee may do more than just wake you up — it could also be turning on a biological switch associated with longevity. According to a groundbreaking study published this week, caffeine, the main active ingredient in coffee, has been shown to activate a deeply conserved energy system in human cells that is closely connected to the body’s mechanisms for aging and disease resistance. This finding radically expands our understanding of how a simple daily habit might contribute to better health and longer lifespans (ScienceDaily).

A new study suggests your morning coffee could do more than wake you up. Researchers found that caffeine may turn on a conserved cellular energy switch linked to aging and disease resistance. The work, conducted by an international team and reported recently, indicates caffeine activates AMPK, a cellular “fuel gauge” that helps cells manage low-energy states. This discovery adds a new dimension to how a daily habit might influence health and longevity.

Nearly a third of American adults eat fast food on any given day, but new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals their overall reliance on fast food is gradually decreasing. According to the report, “Fast-Food Consumption Among Adults and Children in the United States, 2021–2023,” just over 30% of U.S. adults aged 20 and above indulge in fast food daily, with 1 in 5 Americans getting at least a quarter of their daily calories from these meals. The data, which comes from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted from August 2021 to August 2023, also points to shifting patterns among youth, suggesting evolving attitudes towards convenience food in American society (Deseret News).

A new CDC study shows that fast food remains a staple for many Americans, but the overall reliance is slowly easing. The report, conducted through the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2021 to 2023, found that just over 30% of adults eat fast food daily, and about one in five get at least a quarter of their daily calories from these meals. The findings also indicate shifting attitudes among youth toward convenience foods, underscoring evolving dietary choices in the United States.