Dec 29 2008
SOFT DRINKS AND PACKED FOODS
BIGGER CUP, BIGGER GUT
That “medium” soda may actually be a large. Duke University researchers have discovered that some fast-food chains are encouraging customers to buy larger soft drinks—which justifies higher prices—by increasing the number of ounces in all sizes of drinks. They know what you may not: Most people subconsciously pick the middle option without considering the actual amount, says study author Richard Staelin, Ph.D. Remember, 8 ounces is one serving.
THE FATTY FLAVOR? 
A secret ingredient in packaged foods may be making you fat. University of North Carolina scientists found that people who ate monosodium glutamate (a.k.a. MSG} were more likely to be overweight than those who didn’t consume the flavor enhancer. The researchers speculate that the additive interferes with brain neurons, stimulating appetite. Most products don’t list monosodium glutamate on their labels, but if you see “hydrolyzed vegetable protein” or “vegetable protein extract.” consider it code for MSG.
