In April 2007 researchers announced the discovery of the first common gene link to obesity. They reviewed genetic data on more than 38,000 children and adults in the U.K. and Europe and a certain variation in the FTO gene was associated with extra body fat, obesity, and type 2 diabetes.

The finding sheds new light on the genetics of obesity but the researchers were also keen to point out that diet and exercise still count and are very important factors in influencing obesity risk and regardless of your genetic makeup it remains important to try to eat sensibly and exercise.

Cherry juice is being tested as a new treatment for osteoarthritis. It follows earlier research suggesting that compounds in cherries – particularly tart ones – may reduce inflammation and pain in a similar way to aspirin.

Previous research at Michigan State University found that compounds called anthocyanins, which give tart cherries – sometimes called sour red cherries – their colour, may have anti-inflammatory properties and contain protective antioxidants.

In a new trial, due to start in May at the Philadelphia Medical Centre in the U.S., men and women with osteoarthritis will be given a tart cherry juice drink for six weeks to see if it has an effect on their use of painkillers, and whether it improves their ability to walk.

Blueberries could help prevent one of the most common cancers, a study has found. The berries – already hailed as an anti-ageing ‘superfood’ – contain a compound called a preventative pigment with fewer side effects than commercial preparations.

A U.S. study is the first to show the cancer-fighting potential of pterostilbene – one of the antioxidants in blueberries. It is found in the pigment that gives blueberries their colour and the darker the berry, the higher the concentration of antioxidants.

The findings of the study were released at the March 2007 American Chemical Society meeting in Washington by scientists at Rutgers University in New Jersey and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Bowel cancer affects around 34,000 Britons each year. Blueberries have also been found to improve short-term memory loss and enhance balance and co-ordination.