1. Genetically edited crops: the alternative to GMOs?
A group of experts are promoting Genetically Edited Organisms (GEOs) as a less harmful and more "natural" use of biotechnology in the quest for a sustainable agricultural future. Unlike transgenic GMOs, which insert foreign genes to create traits that a crop could never develop on its own, GEOs take a plant's pre-existing genetic information and tweak it, creating a genome that expresses the crop's most preferable traits. Read on.
2. How exercise helps us tolerate pain
According to a new study published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, regular exercise "may alter how a person experiences pain." The research, conducted by scientists at the University of New South Wales and Neuroscience Research Australia, suggests that the longer you keep up with your workout regimen, the greater your tolerance for pain will grow. Read on.
3. Not enough salt can be harmful, too
While it's certainly true that excess sodium consuption can lead to higher blood pressure and an increased risk of heart disease and stroke, two major international studies suggest that consuming too little salt can also have a negative effect. Dr. Salim Yusuf, the principle researcher on both studies, found that daily sodium levels between three and five to six grams were linked with "a lower risk of cardiovascular events and death, as compared with either a higher or lower level of salt in the diet." Read on.
4. Baked in a bag: the solution to gluten-free pizza problems?
Getting a trustworthy gluten-free guarantee from a restaurant is tricky business, especially when it comes to pizza. In many cases, patrons are upcharged $1-3 extra for a gluten-free crust, which can then be contaminated in the kitchen or the oven. To sidestep the expense of a dedicated gluten-free oven, Boulder Brands is designing new "bake-in-a-bag" packaging to protect pizzas from gluten exposure. Read on.
5. More reasons to avoid antibacterial soap
A new study published in Enviromental Science and Technology found that triclosan—a common antimicrobial chemical found in soaps, cosmetics, toothpastes, and even plastics—was present in 100 percent of women's urine samples, and 46 percent of infant cord blood samples. Triclosan has been linked to allergy diagnoses in children, and even smaller head circumference and length of babies post-birth. Read on.
Illustration: Katie Eberts
