We’ve known food insecurity can be traumatic, but a new study shows that it could have a lasting impact on the brain. Researchers from the University of California, Berkeley, simulated scenarios of food insecurity in mice. They discovered lasting changes in the behaviour and brain function of mice at various life stages. The study revealed that insufficient food access greatly affects learning development, decision-making and overall attitude upon reaching adulthood. The research raised concerns about the lasting effects of food insecurity in early adolescents and young adults. Read full article here
Research
Improving media literacy could boost trust towards the news, IMPRESS report suggests
The UK media is regulated by the likes of IPSO and Ofcom. The report by press regulator IMPRESS highlights the link between low levels of media literacy and trust in the news. The study found that three quarters of those who did not know if journalists were regulated did not trust the news. It suggests that improving media literacy is one way to stem the erosion of trust, and shows that audiences have an appetite for information on news processes. Stakeholders need to collaborate in order to rebuild trust in the news, and independent media is well placed to do this. Read full article here
Merv
February 1, 2023
