Nutrition in the News
Measles and Vitamin A
News headlines have followed the alarming rise in cases of the highly contagious Measles virus across the US. Measles was nearly eradicated in the US in the early 1990s thanks to the childhood Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine, but surges in 2014, 2019 and now 2025 indicate a concerning trend. The best prevention for measles remains vaccination, and many experts attribute the rise in cases to lack of adherence to childhood vaccine recommendations.
False claims that Vitamin A is an alternative “natural” way to combat measles have been made by some social media and other influential figures. This may be due to some studies from the 1980s that indicated that Vitamin A therapy in children reduced some symptoms of measles. However, these trials were done in populations with severe Vitamin A deficiency and showed no overall reduction in mortality from measles. The latest research clearly indicates that the MMR vaccine remains the best way to prevent measles and keep communities safe. Learn more about Childhood Vaccine Schedules .
Food Dyes
Synthetic, petroleum based food dyes have been a food additive of concern for years. California recognized the connection between these dyes and neurobehavioral problems in children earlier than other states and moved to ban some of the substances. Now the FDA seems to be moving in a similar direction- although HHS Secretary RFK Jr has backed down from initial plans and now there is merely a “request to comply” for the food and beverage industry, without any true regulation or requirements.
Processed food as a whole has been under fire, as researchers associate numerous health concerns with consumption of “ultra processed foods”. It is important to keep these studies in context, recognizing that a balanced diet overall is the best way to improve nutrition and health. Instead of focusing too much on a particular additive or food item, try to follow general guidelines to include items from all the food groups in your meals- focusing on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Explore ways to promote health and well-being using nutrition through Food Is Medicine.
