Researchers employed gene-editing techniques using transcription activator-like effector nucleases to remove the ovomucoid protein, which is known to cause the allergic response in people with egg allergies, from two strains of chicken and found that the eggs they laid did not have ovomucoid. The findings in Food and Chemical Toxicology suggest that it is possible to produce allergen-free eggs, though more extensive testing will be necessary to make sure they are safe for human consumption.

Corn can be a starchy vegetable or a whole grain depending on when it's harvested, says registered dietitian Maya Vadiveloo, who says generally it is rich in potassium, fiber and healthful phytonutrients. How corn is processed may influence its nutritional profile, so be mindful of added sodium or fat in canned corn, Vadiveloo says, adding that fresh corn on the cob may lose some nutrients in transport and "frozen is probably the most consistent because it's picked at peak freshness and nutrient quality."

As an alternative to dates or dried apricots, jujube fruit has a similar texture and taste and is rich in potassium, vitamin C and antioxidant phenolic compounds, says registered dietitian Sarah Thomsen Ferreira. Research into the healthful impacts of this small, red fruit most commonly found in Asia, Africa and the Mediterranean is still evolving, Ferreira says, but if you can find it in your grocery store or online, jujube fruit eaten raw or dried does offer some nutritional benefits.

Consuming nitrates, which are present in many leafy greens like arugula and other vegetables; meats, especially processed meats; and drinking water, have been shown to reduce cardiovascular risks, according to a recent study published in Trends in Food Science and Technology, but previous research also linked nitrates to increased risk of some cancers. As part of a balanced diet, registered dietitian Dana Ellis Hunnes says that the naturally occurring nitrates in fruits and vegetables "have healthful cardiovascular effects by opening up blood vessels ... [and act] as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds as well that may inhibit the formation of harmful N-nitrosamines which are associated with cancer."

People with Type 2 diabetes who performed moderate-to-vigorous physical activities in the afternoon were more likely to achieve and maintain better glucose control compared with those who performed the activities in the morning, midday or evening, according to a study in Diabetes Care. Those who were physically active in the afternoon also had the highest likelihood of no longer needing glucose-lowering or diabetes medications.

A study in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found improved memory scores among study participants who took daily flavanol supplement pills compared with those who took a placebo, and flavanols only improved memory governed by the hippocampus. "Consuming foods high in flavanols has been shown in research studies to benefit health and reduce the risk for chronic diseases involving the brain, heart and other organs," said registered dietitian nutritionist and Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics national spokesperson Emma Laing.

Liquid substances known as "poppers," usually amyl nitrate, are widely available to recreational users seeking temporary relaxation and sexual performance effects, but they are not FDA-approved, and they sometimes can be confused with energy shots that also come in small bottles. The agency warned that deaths and hospitalizations may result from accidental ingestion of poppers.

A study found that people with increased activity levels are more likely to have greater chronic pain tolerance compared with sedentary individuals. The findings, published in the journal PLOS ONE, suggest boosting physical activity could be a potential strategy for easing or staving off chronic pain, the researchers said.

Owasso Public Schools in Oklahoma and other sites in the area's Summer Feeding Program are now serving sit-down meals for children after three years of grab-and-go service. While grab-and-go service is still available in some rural areas, it is no longer available in more populated areas like the immediate Tulsa metro area.

This white bean salad features marinated artichoke hearts and plenty of herbs to create a filling and flavorful dish. The Domestic Dietitian

Even though a specific anti-inflammatory diet has yet to be defined, RDNs can help people lower their risk for chronic diseases that are often associated with low-grade chronic inflammation.

Members are invited to participate in a research survey about NCP and NCPT implementation among RDNs conducted by the International NCP and NCPT Implementation Survey Consortium. The web-based survey will take about 20 minutes to complete.

RD Maya Vadiveloo as quoted in HealthDay/American Heart Association News.