🌞 Sun exposure increases appetite but prevents weight gain

We spend more of our time indoor, away from direct contact with sunlight.

Sun exposure is a great way to boost Vitamin D levels, regulate appetite and lower stress. And it’s free!

In this study, a team of dermatologists found that mice exposed to consistent UV radiation (mimicking sun exposure) failed to gain weight, even if on a fattening diet.

Exposure to UV light increased norepinephrine, which decreased hunger hormones and increased energy expenditure.

In this process, white fat slowly turn into brown fat, helping convert food into heat before it can accumulate as fat below the skin, thus preventing weight gain.

🥊 Punchline

UV exposure can increase appetite while inhibiting weight gain, showing that UV exposure influence metabolism and hormones beyond skin health.

👵 What diet can help prevent cognitive decline?

Better nutrition might help prevent cognitive decline, but which foods?

A new study examined the diet, blood and cognitive abilities of 100 healthy people aged 65 to 75.

It’s the first study that objectively tries to measure the link between brain health and diet, without rely on food questionnaires and people recall of what they ate (which is often biased!).

Those who showed slower than expected brain aging had a greater intake of fatty acids from lean protein sources, antioxidants and carotenoids (e.g. Vitamin A and precursors), Vitamin E and choline (of which eggs are a major source).

This nutrient profile is similar with that found in the Mediterranean diet: rich in plant based foods and lean proteins.

Importantly, body type and fitness levels did not affect the outcomes seen.

🥊 Punchline

This study is the first one to objectively examine the link between diet and brain health, but it doesn’t come as a surprise that a diet rich in plant based foods and lean protein sources can help prevent cognitive decline.

🥗 Can role models help make healthier food choices?

A sense of belonging to a social group can have a significant impact on our food choices and behaviours

Because when someone sees themselves as belonging to a group, and feels that their membership to the group is an important part of their identity, they are more likely to align their behaviour with the 'norm' for that group.

A new study found that people exposed to social norms on Facebook, such as what others eat, are more likely to be influenced by someone in the same group than by someone who isn't.

The participants were found to internalise the behaviours of someone who shares a common group interest or affiliation with them, which can lead to changes in their own behaviour.

This also goes the opposite way with unhealthy eating habits.

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‘Herd mentality’ is a powerful influence, so seeing fellow group members make healthy choices, or receiving a healthy food recommendation from them, can help promote healthier eating habits.