Scientists say most of what’s in your food is still a mystery
Scientists are investigating 'nutritional dark matter,' which refers to the thousands of unidentified chemical compounds in our food. While traditional nutrition focuses on known nutrients, researchers believe these hidden molecules play a significant role in health and disease.
Why it matters
Understanding these compounds could revolutionize dietary guidelines and help address the rising global rates of obesity and diet-related illnesses.
When scientists cracked the human genome in 2003 - sequencing the entire genetic code of a human being - many expected it would unlock the secrets of disease. But genetics explained only about 10% of the risk. The other 90% lies in the environment - and diet plays a huge part.
The article presents scientific research findings without political or ideological framing.
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