A roundup of new and noteworthy insights from the week’s most talked-about studies:
1 HOUSEHOLD DUST MIGHT BE DANGEROUS
A study published in Environmental Science and Technology found that 10 chemicals known or thought to harm humans are found at varying levels in 90% of household dust. The chemicals come from household goods like furniture and toys, and can cause a range of issues including respiratory problems and cancer.
2 ADOLESCENTS WILL EAT HEALTHY FOODS IF IT SEEMS REBELLIOUS
A study in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that eighth-graders were more likely to make healthier food choices when they were framed as appealing to adolescent values–in this case, challenging the authority of food-industry giants.
3 FITNESS TRACKERS MAY NOT HELP WEIGHT LOSS
A report in the Journal of the American Medical Association tracked weight-loss efforts over two years by two groups of people. Only one group used wearables, and its members lost significantly less weight, on average.
–J.Z.
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Write to Julia Zorthian at julia.zorthian@time.com