News

Oats and the gut connection

A new study from the University of Bonn has found that a short-term, oat-based diet is effective at reducing cholesterol levels, with the gut microbiome playing a key role.

The trial involved 66 men and women with metabolic syndrome – a cluster of conditions that increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke. In the first phase of the study, 17 participants followed a two-day diet that included 300g of oatmeal and provided around half of their usual calorie intake. A control group of 15 also followed a calorie-reduced diet, but without oats. While both groups benefited from the dietary change, those eating oats saw their “bad” LDL cholesterol fall by around 10%. They also lost an average of 2kg in weight and experienced a small drop in blood pressure. These benefits were still evident six weeks later. A second, six-week trial involving 17 participants eating 80g of oatmeal per day showed smaller effects.

The researchers believe the benefits come from phenolic metabolites, compounds produced when gut bacteria break down oats, which appear to help lower cholesterol. The study was published in Nature Communications.

Unprocessed diets encourage smarter eating

A new study has shown that people who switch to a fully unprocessed diet don’t just eat differently – they eat smarter. Research from the University of Bristol shows that when people avoid ultra-processed foods, they naturally pile their plates with fruits and vegetables, eating over 50% more food by weight while still consuming hundreds fewer calories each day.

This happens because whole foods trigger a kind of built-in “nutritional intelligence,” nudging people toward nutrient-rich, lower-calorie options.

Lead author Jeff Brunstrom, Professor of Experimental Psychology at the University of Bristol, said: “It’s exciting to see when people are offered unprocessed options they intuitively select foods that balance enjoyment, nutrition, and a sense of fullness, while still reducing overall energy intake. Our dietary choices aren’t random – in fact we seem to make much smarter decisions than previously assumed, when foods are presented in their natural state.” The findings were published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Did you know?

Evidence indicates that breaking up long periods of sitting with just two minutes of light movement every half an hour can help to support blood sugar balance and circulation, even in people who meet recommended exercise guidelines.

Research highlights the power of nature therapy

Nature-based therapy may help people to find hope, meaning and a deeper sense of connection, according to new research from the University of Manchester.

The study, published in the journal Ecopsychology, examined a form of outdoor therapy called ‘ecotherapy’ which includes activities such as walking in woodland, spending time near water, gardening or sitting quietly in nature with a trained therapist. By reviewing studies from around the world, the researchers explored how people described their most meaningful moments during these experiences.

Many people spoke about moments in nature that helped them to process pain, let go of the past and rediscover a sense of purpose. Rather than techniques or theories, participants described simple experiences – watching trees grow and decay, feeling the wind on their face or sitting quietly in a forest and feeling part of something larger. The study suggests these moments can have lasting effects, helping people to accept themselves, release emotional pain and find new direction. At a time of widespread anxiety about the future, the study highlights how connecting with nature may support mental health and foster hope.