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Genetics Could Trump Daddy Issues in Sexually Active Teens
The age at which you lost your virginity could be programmed in your genes. Though researchers have often suspected that having an absent father, a single mom, or sexually active single parents could lead teens to have sex earlier, genetics seem to play a larger role than previously thought.
According a new study published in Child Development, the average age at which teens with absent fathers lost their virginity was 15.28, compared to age 16.11 for kids whose fathers were always around.
Are You Afraid of Spiders?
About four percent of the adult, American population has arachnaphobia — a fear of spiders — and of that percentage, women are four times as likely to be afraid.
Researchers concluded that girls have a genetic predisposition to be afraid of dangerous animals like spiders. Coded into our DNA, apparently, is the desire to stay away from dangerous things and protect our children, where men are supposed to be risk-takers and generally less likely to be afraid of spiders.
Is 23andMe For You?
Part of the fun of making a baby is the surprise of it all. Expectant parents become giddy over the suspense — will it have his eyes or hers, be a boy or girl, have curly or straight hair? Some people find out the answers to the big questions around the 18-week ultrasound reveal while others keep it a mystery.
Today's Produce May Be Nutritionally Deficient
As it turns out, modern-day fruits and vegetables may not be so good for you after all. In this month's issue of HortScience, Donald R. Davis, a former research associate at the Biochemical Institute at the University of Texas, argues that the average vegetable found in today's US and UK supermarket could be anywhere from 5 to 40 percent lower in minerals, such as magnesium, iron, calcium, and zinc, than produce that was harvested 50 years ago.
Labeling Won't Be Required For Genetically Engineered Animals
Last Thursday, the Food and Drug Administration issued its long-awaited regulations on genetically engineered animals. Its conclusion, after considering genetically altered animals? Consumer labeling will not be required for genetically engineered food.Currently, genetically engineered animals are being developed for the market, but so far none of the animals have been approved by the agency for marketing.
Beer: The Next Cancer Elixir?
While we recently learned that Americans are drinking less beer, perhaps they should reconsider.
Recent studies show that xanthohumol, a chemical found in hops, can inhibit enzymes that trigger cancer as well as help detoxify the body of carcinogens.
In addition, other researchers at Rice University are trying to genetically engineer brewing yeast in order to create beer loaded with resveratrol, a cancer-preventing compound.
Tell Mommy: Do Your Children Look Alike?
My older sister and I don't look a bit alike. Growing up, she looked more like my parents so people assumed I was adopted. And, that line of thinking didn't change much until our younger brother and sister arrived.
Genetically Altered Animals as Food?
The government has decided to consider farmers' proposals to sell genetically altered animals as food. Although genetically engineered food is not a new concept (the process is used in agriculture to produce more crops), this is the first time that the FDA has contemplated applying the process to animals. The animals' genes would be manipulated to bring out or change certain characteristics.
Are Designer Babies a Coming Trend?
Scientists may be one step closer to creating designer babies, with the first genetically modified human embryo. Despite the scientists' assurances that the work was concentrated strictly on stem cell research, the fact that scientists have genetically altered a human embryo is alarming to many.
Concerned citizens worry that if scientists continue to develop that capability, they may be enticed to eventually insert desirable genes — such as intelligence or athleticism.
Would You Buy Genetically Modified Food?
A recent CBS News/New York Times poll shows that 53 percent of Americans won't buy food that has been genetically modified. I can see where folks would be concerned, and wondered what you thought? Would you purchase food that had been genetically modified?
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