It may seem strange that many important, scientific questions are being answered using the roundworm, which is roughly the size of the next comma in this sentence. But it is, indeed, an incredibly powerful experimental system. 

A recent study found that evening eaters – in this case, "night owls" – are more prone to be unhealthy eaters than those who eat at conventional times. And while that's the central finding of the research, the conclusion isn't terribly satisfying or convincing given the study's many limitations that cast doubt on the results.

Gluten-free is one of the latest food fads to take America by storm — but does everyone who espouses a gluten-free diet really need one? A recent study sought to examine who requires such a regimen, and how reliably such determinations are made.

Kawhi Leonard is intelligent, soft-spoken, modest and a thoroughly likable young man with an incredible work ethic. But during a recent interview the NBA star helped perpetuate one of the worst health scams around — that drinking alkaline, or high pH, water has health benefits. Should Leonard be called for a technical foul?
 

Our resident pediatrician always advises us not to be fooled by the cuteness. New research analyzed science reporting in newspapers, the results aren't pretty. Beware of shiny-object syndrome! 

Used in Dispatch on 2/25/19:
Norovirus, otherwise known as the stomach flu, is back in full swing in the United States. While Dr. Josh Bloom wrote about this nearly two years ago, the topic is just as relevant today. Here’s some worthwhile information on how you can avoid this nasty illness, especially when you go out to eat.
How'd you like to be an unwilling participant of the world's first, and only, clinical trial that studied the transmission of the norovirus as a function of distance? We're guessing, probably not. But a room full of diners in a British hotel had no choice – because they caught it through the air. 

Why are strawberries, spinach, and 10 other nutritious fruits and vegetables killing us? Because of pesticides, says the clueless Environmental Working Group, whose mission is scaring you about perfectly safe and healthy food. 

When a well-respected researcher proposes a strange way to influence people's food choices – with the goal of reducing obesity – one must pay attention, but not necessarily go along on that particular ride.

Antioxidants are compounds that occur naturally in many plants, fruits and vegetables. And thanks to the supplement industry — a multi billion dollar one, at that — they also come in the form of pills, despite the lack of scientific evidence that shows their efficacy. It's true your body needs certain vitamins and nutrients. It's also true you can get plenty from your healthy, balanced diet. So why take a pill when you can eat a banana?

We're currently in the middle of the FDA's open-comment period on genetically edited foods. To date, 191 comments have been submitted, the majority expressing a sentiment of "poisoning the people." Well, scientists and pro-science folks, now's the time to make the scientific community's voice heard. Here's how to do it.