This 2008 Cornell University paper reported that healthy-weight guests at a Chinese buffet were three times more likely to eat with chopsticks than obese guests. Healthier people were also more likely to put their napkin on their lap, so let's get our chopsticks and napkins out!

Researchers put dozens of patients with major depressive disorders on a Mediterranean-style diet, and after 12 weeks, 1/3 of participants reported improved mood and symptoms. Pasta only plays a small role here, but it's fascinating to learn more of the myriad ways in which the Mediterranean Diet improves lives.

A study of 23,000 Italians showed that pasta consumption negatively correlates with waist size/BMI. So for some reason, people who eat more pasta tend to stay leaner! With the many variables involved here, it is difficult to pinpoint a causal relationship, but this is still fascinating and worth looking into more closely.

This article cites a study comparing the baking properties of four different cheeses used in making pizzas. The study used software to perform image analysis on these cheeses and quantify certain qualities, determining that mozzarella's properties prove superior for pizza-making. It's always refreshing to see science catch up with something we already knew deep down, isn't it?