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Research conducted at the University of Porto in Portugal indicates that certain chemicals found abundantly in plant-based beverages, such as red wine, beer and tea, may help kill off breast cancer cells, observed Wine Spectator Online. Three polyphenolic compounds - including resveratrol, which is believed to be a factor in red wine's potential health benefits - were found to "contribute to a significant decrease in breast cancer cell proliferation," the study's authors reported. Full Story

Artichokes, beans and Russet potatoes are among a growing variety of foods found to contain surprisingly high levels of antioxidants, according to a new USDA study, reported WebMD. The study, which appears in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, also shows that nuts and spices, such as ground cloves, cinnamon and oregano, are rich in antioxidants, although they are generally consumed in much smaller amounts than fruits and vegetables. Full Story

A new coalition of consumer, nutrition and public health groups issued a stern warning: low-carb diets are unlikely to lead to sustained long term weight loss and they can increase the risk for a number of life-threatening medical conditions. Members of the newly formed Partnership for Essential Nutrition announced the findings of a comprehensive review of the scientific literature that will serve as the foundation for the activities and advocacy efforts of the coalition. Full Story

Brazilian scientists have discovered a naturally decaffeinated coffee plant. "We have found the first decaffeinated Coffea arabica," said Paulo Mazzafera, of the Universidade Estadual de Campinas in Brazil. Decaffeinated coffee accounts for about 10% of world consumption, but key flavors are sacrificed when the caffeine is removed. Full Story