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We advance health through transformational discoveries across disciplines, from Alzheimer’s to zinc digestibility. These impacts are made possible through public and private investments, legislator support, multi-institutional partnerships, and the dedication of faculty and student scholars.
Below, we showcase recent examples of our most impactful research in the area of health and wellness. You can also view and download a pdf version and subscribe to one of our ACES e-newsletters to stay abreast of new developments in ACES research.
Discover Our Health & Wellness Research
Rural-urban Mortality Gap Due to Chronic Stress, Infrastructure
ACES researchers, in collaboration with the USDA Economic Research Service, found that the widening mortality gap between rural and urban Americans is driven less by rural residence itself than by chronic stress, unhealthy behaviors, and limited community resources. Using health biomarker data from more than 66,000 people collected over 20 years, the researchers identified chronic stress, smoking, obesity, and poor diet as major contributors to higher death rates among rural adults. The study also highlights how inadequate access to healthcare, nutritious food, gyms, and other infrastructure worsens health outcomes. Researchers conclude that improving rural infrastructure, expanding healthy food access, and promoting healthier lifestyles could reduce mortality disparities while strengthening rural workforce productivity and overall community well-being.
ACES researcher:
Sarah Low, Agricultural and Consumer Economics
Funding: This research was supported by the USDA Economic Research Service and the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture.
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New study suggests rural-urban mortality gap comes down to stress, rural infrastructure
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What Are the Risks of Illness During Pregnancy?
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ACES research indicates that the greatest risks from illness during pregnancy stem from severe infections rather than mild cases. In a study with mice, the researchers found that severe influenza infection during pregnancy can weaken the placenta and fetal brain’s protective barriers, allowing large bloodborne molecules to reach the developing brain. While moderate flu infections generally have little effect on fetal development, severe infections can trigger excessive maternal inflammation and high fevers that disrupt fetal brain development, restrict growth, and increase the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, or preterm birth. Vaccination, prompt treatment with recommended antiviral medications, and controlling high or prolonged fevers with physician-approved medications such as acetaminophen can reduce these risks, the researchers said.
ACES researcher:
Adrienne Antonson, Animal Sciences
Funding: The Roy J. Carver Charitable Trust and a Department of Animal Sciences Matchstick Grant supported this research.
Related news stories:
In pregnant mice with severe flu, harmful molecules can breach fetal barriers
What risks does sickness pose in pregnancy?
Microwave Frying Can Lower Oil Content for Healthier French Fries
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ACES researchers explored a hybrid microwave frying technique that could produce healthier French fries by reducing oil absorption while maintaining the crispy texture consumers expect. Unlike conventional frying, which heats food from the outside in, microwave energy heats fries internally, generating steam pressure that limits oil penetration and shortens cooking time. However, microwave heating alone creates a soggy product, so researchers recommend engineering new commercial systems that combine microwave and traditional frying. Experiments and mathematical modeling showed the hybrid method results in faster moisture loss, lower oil uptake, and comparable quality to conventional fries. The findings could help food manufacturers and restaurants create lower-fat fried foods without sacrificing taste, texture, or consumer appeal.
ACES researcher:
Pawan Singh Takhar, Food Science and Human Nutrition
Funding: This research was supported by a grant from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture.
Related news story:
Microwave frying can help lower oil content for healthier French fries
Americans Want Information, Policies Around Ultra-processed Foods
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A collaborative study between ACES researchers and Purdue University found that Americans want clearer information and guidance about ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and generally support policies that help consumers make informed choices. Surveying nearly 1,000 adults, the researchers evaluated public support for six potential policies, including defining UPFs, providing dietary guidance, restricting their availability in certain settings, and taxing them. Information-based approaches received the strongest support, while taxes on UPFs were the least popular. People who believed UPFs pose health risks or who were more familiar with the topic were especially likely to favor regulation. The researchers conclude that educational efforts and transparent labeling may be the most effective first steps for helping consumers make healthier food decisions while informing future food policy.
ACES researchers:
Maria Kalaitzandonakes, Agricultural and Consumer Economics
Brenna Ellison, Purdue University and farmdoc
Funding: This research was supported by the Gardner Agricultural Policy Program at the University of Illinois.
Related news stories:
Americans hungry for information, policies around ultra-processed foods, study shows
New study evaluates public policy preferences for limiting children’s access to energy drinks