Health Studies- August 2014

Consuming Probiotics for A Month Helps Diminish Fat Accumulation In The Liver

Scientists made important strides through probiotic in the fight against the Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Diseases, which is closely related to obesity and diabetes.  To read more, click here.

Cinnamon may be used to halt progression of Parkinson's disease

Cinnamon may be used to halt progression of Parkinson's disease, study suggests Neurological scientists at Rush University Medical Center have found that using cinnamon, a common food spice and flavoring material, can reverse the biomechanical, cellular and anatomical changes that occur in the brains of mice with Parkinson's disease.  To read more, click here.

DHA omega-3 linked to ‘significantly improved periodontal outcomes

Scientists from Harvard report that supplementation with DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) omega-3 may improve periodontal outcomes in people with periodontitis.  To read more, click here.

In Alcohol Abusers, Fish Oil May Reduce Risk Of Neurodegeneration And Ensuing Dementia

In brain cells exposed to high levels of alcohol, a fish oil compound protected against inflammation and neuronal cell death.  To read more, click here.

Valerian Root Shown to Reduce Hot Flashes in Menopause

A recent study found that Valerian root was associated with significant improvement in the severity and frequency of hot flashes in menopausal women.  To read more, click here.

Magnesium supplements may boost physical performance for older women

Daily supplementation with magnesium oxide in combination with a mild fitness program may boost the physical performance of healthy older women, says a new study.  To read more, click here.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Curb Tobacco Cravings in Smokers
Researchers recently found that omega-3 fatty acids may be an effective, affordable, and safe way to help quit smoking.  To read more, click here.

Chlorella supplements show cardiovascular benefits

Daily supplements containing Chlorella may reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels in people with mildly elevated cholesterol levels, says a new study from Korea.  To read more, click here.

Lycopene and Blood Vessel Health

A recent study suggests that even when cardiovascular disease is already present, lycopene helps vascular function through its ability to scavenge free radicals that damage blood vessels.  To read more, click here.

Curcumin reduces muscle soreness

A proprietary curcumin extract can ease post-exercise muscle soreness caused by oxidative stress and inflammation, an Italian study has found.  To read more, click here.

Health Studies- July 2014

Gluten-free diet relieves 'brain fog' in patients with Celiac disease
Individuals with celiac disease often experience 'brain fog' in addition to intestinal problems, but a new study shows that adhering to a gluten-free diet can lead to improvements in cognition that correlate with the extent of intestinal healing The Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics findings indicate that ridding the diet of gluten may help address problems that celiac disease patients can experience related to attention, memory, and other mental tasks.  To read more, click here.

Tomato Extract Effective in Helping Control Blood Pressure
Researchers found that tomato extract was associated with a clinically significant decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure.  To read more, click here.

Study Finds Whey Protein Best for Short-Term Appetite Control
Researchers recently found that whey protein supplementation has a positive effect on satiety and fullness in overweight and obese individuals.  To read more, click here.

Dietary Fiber and Prostate Cancer Risk 
A new study suggests that dietary fiber, especially insoluble fiber, is associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer.  To read more, click here.

Could coffee protect DNA from damage?
Regular consumption of coffee may reduce DNA damage and reduce energy intake and body fat, according to two new studies from Europe.  To read more, click here.

Stress Hormone Linked To Short-Term Memory Loss as We Age 
Stress hormone (cortisol) elevation is associated with working memory deficits in aging.  To read more, click here.

Black tea shows cholesterol-busting potential: Meta-analysis
Regular consumption of black tea may reduce LDL cholesterol levels, according to a new meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.  To read more, click here.

Increased Fiber Intake Beneficial after a First Heart Attack
Increased fiber intake may help survival after a first heart attack, by reducing both inflammation and LDL cholesterol, and improving insulin sensitivity, blood sugar control, and the bacterial environment in the digestive tract.  To read more, click here.

Physical Activity Improved Brain Health in Those with Genetic Risk for Alzheimer's Disease
Researchers recently found that physical activity can help maintain brain health in those genetically at risk for Alzheimer’s Disease.  To read more, click here.

Iron Supplementation Shows Benefits in Physical Performance in Females 
Recent research found that iron supplementation is associated with improved exercise performance in women who trained athletically or were iron deficient.  To read more, click here.

Speaking Two Languages Benefits the Aging Brain 
Individuals who speak two or more languages, even those who acquired the second language in adulthood, may slow down cognitive decline from aging.  To read more, click here.

Increased Fitness Reduces Risk of Death in Elderly Men with High Blood Pressure
A new study found that greater cardio respiratory fitness is associated with a lower overall risk of death in older men with high blood pressure.  To read more, click here.

Health Studies- June 2014

Flaxseed Found to Benefit High Blood Pressure 
A new study suggests that flaxseed may be an effective and affordable way to help manage blood pressure.  To read more, click here.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Help Manage Triglyceride Levels

A research review found that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation is associated with a decrease in high triglyceride levels.  To read more, click here.

Green Tea and Memory

Research suggests that EGCG, an antioxidant in green tea, may be associated with improvements in working memory, due to its positive effect on a receptor in the brain called NMDA receptor.  To read more, click here.

Inactivity has greatest impact on women's lifetime heart disease risk

From the age of 30 onwards, physical inactivity exerts a greater impact on a woman's lifetime risk of developing heart disease than the other well-known risk factors, suggests research published online in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.  To read more, click here. 

Yoga Can Help Keep Expectant Mothers Stress Free 

Yoga and pregnant women: Results show it can reduce the risk of anxiety and depression, which have been linked to premature birth, low birth weight and increased developmental and behavioral problems.  To read more, click here. 

Study Finds Oats Helpful for Exercise-Induced Inflammation in Postmenopausal Women

Research suggests that antioxidants found in oats are associated with reduced inflammation after demanding physical exercise in postmenopausal women.  To read more, click here.

Melatonin for Bones?

McGill researchers have shown that melatonin supplements may make bones stronger in old rats. This suggests a possible avenue for the prevention of osteoporosis.  To read more, click here. 

Indoor Tanning and Melanoma  

Indoor tanning raises the risk of developing melanoma even if a person has never had burns from either indoor or outdoor tanning.  To read more, click here. 

Tocotrienols May Help Maintain Mental Health by Protecting Brain Tissue

A recent study suggests that tocotrienols may be an effective way to help protect the brain’s white matter against the damages of cardiovascular disease.  To read more, click here.

Vitamin C May Increase Survival in Women with Breast Cancer

Research suggests that because vitamin C is a strong antioxidant it could protect the body from free radical damage, which increases the progression of cancers.  To read more, click here.

Ashwagandha may promote healthy testosterone production in men

Daily supplements of root extracts of ashwagandha may promote healthy testosterone production and other metrics related to male sexual function, say results of a pilot study.  To read more, click here.

Resveratrol Improves Blood Sugar Control in Diabetics

A recent study found that resveratrol, an antioxidant known to help heart health, inflammation, and digestive health may help diabetics control their blood sugar.  To read more, click here.

Tart Cherry Juice May Help Insomniacs Sleep

Researchers have found that drinking two glasses of cherry juice daily increased sleep time by 90 minutes in adults with insomnia.  To read more, click here. 

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Beneficial for Blood Pressure

Research suggests that EPA+DHA supplementation may lower blood pressure and reduce the incidence of associated chronic diseases.  To read more, click here.

Changing Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fat Intake May Help with Chronic Headaches

A recent study found that specific intakes of both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids may be an effective way to help with headaches.  To read more, click here.

Resveratrol enhances the effects of diabetic drug

Red wine-sourced antioxidant resveratrol – found in the skin of red grapes and wine – can amplify and extend the beneficial effects of anti-diabetic drug Metformin, says a new peer review study.  To read more, click here.

Racism: Not What The Doctor Ordered

Interpersonal racism perpetrated by healthcare providers, may be a key driver of racial disparities in health.  To read more, click here.

Frequent arguments linked to doubling of death risk in middle age

Frequent arguments with partners, relatives, or neighbors may boost the risk of death from any cause in middle age, suggests research published online in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health.  Men and those not in work seemed to be the most vulnerable, the findings indicate.  To read more, click here.

Health Studies- May 2014

Omega-3 Fats May Decrease Artery Calcification in Men

Researchers recently suggested that having high blood levels of omega-3 fats may be a way to minimize artery calcification.  To read more, click here.

Whey protein’s benefits for improved body composition  

Intake of whey protein as a supplement or in combination with resistance exercise, or as part of a weight-loss or weight-maintenance diet, may boost body composition for men and women.  To read more, click here. 

Morning rays keep off pounds

A new Northwestern Medicine® study reports the timing, intensity and duration of your light exposure during the day is linked to your weight -- the first time this has been shown.  People who had most of their daily exposure to even moderately bright light in the morning had a significantly lower body mass index (BMI) than those who had most of their light exposure later in the day.  To read more, click here.

Omega-3 Fats Benefit Mental Health in Older Malnourished Children
A recent study showed that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation improved cognitive test scores in older malnourished children.  To read more, click here.

Antimicrobial from soaps promotes bacteria buildup in human noses

An antimicrobial agent found in common household soaps, shampoos and toothpastes may be finding its way inside human noses where it promotes the colonization of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria and could predispose some people to infection.  To read more, click here.

Cinnamon May Benefit Liver Health in Those with Liver Disease

A recent study suggests that taking 1500 mg cinnamon daily may be helpful in improving nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.  To read more, click here. 

Want spring allergy relief? Avoid stress

Stress doesn't cause allergies, but easing your mind might mean less allergy flare-ups this spring. According to a study published in the April issue of Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, the scientific journal of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, allergy sufferers with persistent stress experience more allergy flares.  To read more, click here.

Vitamin D May Help Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease

Vitamin D deficiency exists in 70-90 percent of patients diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Medical studies have shown that increased vitamin D levels either through sun exposure or supplementation improves cognitive function in the elderly.  To read more, click here.

Glucosamine could increase lifespan by mimicking effects of 'low-carb diet'

Supplementation with glucosamine could increase longevity by up to 10%, according to new animal research that suggests the compound may have similar metabolic effects as a calorie-restricted or low-carb diet.  To read more, click here.

Climate change and rising CO2 will reduce quality of food

Elevated levels of carbon dioxide can block plants' absorption of nitrates, leading to foods and crops with a reduced nutritional quality, new field trials have found.  To read more, click here.

Health Studies- April 2014

Probiotics may boost ‘quality of life’ for hay fever sufferers

Hay fever suffers may benefit from daily probiotic supplements, according to a new study that found improvements in ‘quality of life’ scores and ocular symptoms.  To read more, click here.

Olive Leaf Lowers Blood Pressure

Researchers found that olive leaf extract not only lowered blood pressure, but it also lowered total cholesterol and triglycerides in patients with stage 1 hypertension.  To read more, click here.

Vitamin D linked to better breast cancer patient survival

Breast cancer patients with high levels of vitamin D in their blood are twice as likely to survive the disease as those with lower levels, new research has suggested.  To read more, click here.

Olive Oil May Help Increase Fat-Burning in the Obese

In a controlled trial, rats given a standard diet supplemented with olive oil had a 26% higher oxygen intake and 58% higher rate of fat burning compared un-supplemented rats.  To read more, click here.

Omega-3 Fats Benefit Those with Dry Eye Syndrome

A recent study suggests that omega-3 fats may help dry eye syndrome by modulating the inflammatory process in the body.  To read more, click here.

Physical activity and occasional drinking found to be associated with decrease in vision impairment

Study shows modifiable lifestyle behaviors may alter the odds of developing sight loss not correctable with glasses or contact lenses.  To read more, click here.

Meta-analysis finds omega-3s equal lifestyle changes for blood pressure benefits

Consuming omega-3 supplements or omega-3-rich food may be as effective as reducing sodium or alcohol, or increasing exercise for reducing blood pressure, says a new meta-analysis of 70 randomized controlled studies.  To read more, click here.

Lycopene Improves Both Inflammation and Cholesterol Levels in Overweight Individuals

Researchers recently found that increased lycopene intake had heart-protective benefits in moderately overweight, middle-aged patients.  To read more, click here.

Omega-3 Fats May Decrease Artery Calcification in Men

In an international study done on men in Japan and the US, Japanese men with omega-3 blood levels136% higher than US Caucasian men had a 69% lower rate of calcium build-up in arteries.  To read more, click here.

Healthy eating may reduce the risk of preterm delivery: Population data

A healthy diet packed with fruit, vegetables, and omega-3 rich fish could help to reduce the risk of pre-term babies, according to new research.  To read more, click here.

Magnesium Clears Up Mucus and Improves Breathing in Cystic Fibrosis Patients

In a study of pediatric Cystic Fibrosis patients, researchers found that Magnesium helped improve respiratory muscle strength.  To read more, click here.

Calcium and vitamin D may improve cholesterol in postmenopausal women

Supplementation with calcium and vitamin D after menopause could help to improve women's cholesterol profiles, according to new research.  To read more, click here.

Omega-3 Fats Benefit Blood Vessel Health in Those with Metabolic Syndrome
In Metabolic Syndrome patients, omega-3 fats were found to improve endothelial function and arterial stiffness with a parallel anti-inflammatory effect.  To read more, click here.

Health Studies- March 2014

Omega-3 and metabolism: DHA may reduce risk of metabolic conditions

Omega-3 fatty acids, especially in the form of DHA, may be of ‘significant value’ in reducing the risk of metabolic conditions including fatty liver disease, according to new research.  To read more, click here.

Vitamin C status may be linked to stroke risk

Consumption of foods and supplements that are rich in vitamin C could help reduce the risk of the most common type of hemorrhagic stroke, say researchers.  To read more, click here.

Social anxiety and tryptophan  
A small, pilot study suggests that tryptophan may help those with social anxiety.  To read more, click here.

Abdominal fat accumulation prevented by unsaturated fat

Fat composition of food not only influences cholesterol levels in the blood and the risk of cardiovascular disease but also determines where the fat will be stored in the body.  To read more, click here. 

Omega-3 and birth weight

Higher intakes of fish during pregnancy may lead to infants with a higher birth weight, as well as reducing the risk of pre-term births, according to new research.  To read more, click here.

Vitamin E helps slow mental decline in Alzheimer's patients

Recent research suggests that alpha tocopherol slows functional decline in mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease patients.  To read more, click here.

Daily multivitamin supplement may decrease cataract risk in men

Long-term daily multivitamin supplement use may lower cataract risk by around 9%, according to a new trial of nearly 15,000 men.  To read more, click here.

Omega-3 backed for Alzheimer’s disease potential

Supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids could help to prevent and even reverse the progression of Alzheimer’s disease by stimulating newly identified ‘resolution pathways’, according to researchers.  To read more, click here.

Pain relievers and recurrent headaches and chronic migraines

Frequent use of non-narcotic pain medications such as aspirin and Tylenol have been identified as major risk factors in the development of chronic migraines.  To read more, click here.

Melatonin may reduce risk of certain breast cancers

Melatonin may have the potential to reduce the risk of certain breast cancers by slowing the growth of tumours, according to a new early stage study.  To read more, click here.

Melatonin and strenuous exercise

A new study suggests that oral supplementation of melatonin during high intensity exercise helps reduce oxidative stress.  To read more, click here.

Glucosamine plus chondroitin may reduce joint space narrowing

Two years of daily supplementation with a combination of glucosamine and a low molecular weight chondroitin sulfate may significantly reduce joint space narrowing in the knee, says a new study.  To read more, click here.

L-arginine and obesity

A new pilot study suggests that L-arginine, an amino acid normally made by the body and found in many foods that have protein, may help with central obesity.  To read more, click here. 

Vegetarian diet could slash blood pressure

Consuming a vegetarian diet may be associated with lower blood pressure, and as such could be used to reduce blood pressure and heart disease risk, say researchers.  To read more, click here.

Vitamin E and dialysis patients

In a recent study, researchers found that vitamin E supplementation improved lipid profiles in patients undergoing hemodialysis.  To read more, click here. 

Pesticides increase risk for Parkinson's disease

Previous studies have shown the certain pesticides can increase the risk for developing Parkinson's disease. Now, UCLA researchers have now found that the strength of that risk depends on an individual's genetic makeup, which in the most pesticide-exposed populations could increase the chances of developing the debilitating disease by two- to six-fold.  To read more, click here.

Even moderate weight loss can prevent and cure obstructive sleep apnea

A sustained weight loss of just 5% was enough to prevent obstructive sleep apnea from worsening and even cure it in a long-term follow-up.  To read more, click here.

Health Studies- February 2014

Vitamin E and Alzheimer's

Daily supplements of vitamin E (alpha tocopherol) may slow functional decline in people with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease, say results of a double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, randomized clinical trial.  To read more, click here.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids and ADHD

In a study of 90 Australian children with ADHD symptoms, researchers found that omega-3 fatty acids were associated with improvements in attention, literacy and behavior problems.  To read more, click here.

Can fish oil help preserve brain cells?

Senior women with higher levels of omega-3s had larger total brain volumes eight years later.  To read more, click here.

Higher vitamin D dose needed for bone health benefits for older women

Vitamin D doses closer to 1,000 IU per day may be needed to lessen bone loss in postmenopausal women, says a new study from the UK.  To read more, click here.

Acetyl-L-Carnitine and Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar Health

In a recent study, Acetyl-L-Carnitine improved systolic blood pressure and insulin resistance in patients with increased cardiovascular disease risk.  To read more, click here.

Physical activity significantly extends lives of cancer survivors

Research has found that expending more than 12,600 calories per week in physical activity reduced mortality in cancer survivors by up to 48%.  To read more, click here.

Can an apple a day keep the doctor (and statins) away?

The old proverb may stand the test of time, according to new research that suggests consuming an apple a day has the same benefits as statin drugs for people over 50.  To read more, click here.

Fish Oil and Prostate Health

A recent study suggests that fish oil supplementation may benefit prostate health.  To read more, click here.

People who enjoy life maintain better physical function as they age

People who enjoy life maintain better physical function in daily activities and keep up faster walking speeds as they age.  To read more, click here.

Resveratrol a smoker’s best friend?

Resveratrol supplements could hold cardiovascular benefits for smokers, a new study has suggested.  To read more, click here.

Chilled fruit loses 80% of antioxidants

Freeze-drying strawberries keeps all their Vitamin C and polyphenols and 92% of their antioxidants, saving more nutrients than by chilling.  To read more, click here.

Vitamin D may be linked to multiple sclerosis activity and progression

High levels of vitamin D may be associated with reduced disease activity and a lower risk of progression for people with multiple sclerosis (MS), according to new research.  To read more, click here.

Pine bark extract may boost fitness and muscle recovery

Daily supplements with extracts from French Maritime Pine bark may boost endurance and reduce cramping by controlling oxidative stress, according to a new study.  To read more, click here.

Vitamin D may improve cognition and mood in people with Parkinson's

Increased levels of vitamin D may reduce the risk of developing cognitive impairments and depression in people who suffer from Parkinson's disease, according to new research.  To read more, click here. 

Vitamin E supplements may reduce bone fracture rate in the elderly

Use of vitamin E alpha-tocopherol supplements may reduce the rate of bone fractures in older people, says a new study that supports the potential bone health benefits of the vitamin.  To read more, click here.

Omega-3s may boost heart health for people with Metabolic Syndrome

Omega-3 supplements may boost endothelial function, arterial stiffness, and inflammatory status in people with metabolic syndrome, according to a new study from the University of Athens Medical School in Greece.  To read more, click here.

Krill oil shows heart health benefits in humans

Daily supplements of krill oil may reduce triglyceride levels and boost heart health, says a new study with 300 people from Aker BioMarine Antarctic.  To read more, click here.

Health Studies- January 2014

Encouragement for Women with Depression
Researchers recently found that women in the upper third of omega-3 consumption had lower levels of depression compared to women in the lowest third of omega-3 consumption.  To read more,click here.

Pycnogenol and the Common Cold
A recent study found that pycnogenol was associated with a decrease in the length of a cold when used alone or with vitamin C and zinc.  To read more, click here.

Effects of Vitamin D in Gestational Diabetes

A recent study found that women with gestational diabetes who take vitamin D supplements can improve their glucose levels, insulin resistance and cholesterol levels.  To read more, click here.

Tryptophan Relieves Sleep Terrors in Children
Research suggests that the amino acid tryptophan may be an effective natural alternative to help with night terrors.  To read more, click here.

Probiotics Improve Lung Health in Physically Healthy Adults
A new study suggests that probiotic supplements may help to reduce the risk of upper respiratory tract infections in healthy, physically active adults.  To read more, click here.

Treating ADHD with Vitamin B-3 (Niacinamide)
A recent press release from the Orthomolecular Medicine News Service reported that niacinamide is an effective remedy for hyperactivity and lack of mental focus.  To read more, click here.

Fiber and Cardiovascular Risks
Recent research indicates U.S. adults have inadequate intakes of fiber and these lower intakes are associated with a greater prevalence of cardiovascular disease risk factors.  To read more, click here.

Eating Nuts May Reduce the Risk of Pancreatic Cancer

In a recent study, researchers found that women who consumed two or more servings of nuts per week had a lower incidence of pancreatic cancer than women who consumed little or no nuts.  To read more,click here.

Apples and Heart Health

Offering a daily apple to the over 50 population would avert nearly as many vascular deaths as offering a daily statin.  To read more, click here.

Mouse Study Suggests Magnesium May Preserve Nerve Health in Alzheimer's Patients

A new study in mice suggests that magnesium may help protect nerve health in patients with Alzheimer’s disease.  To read more, click here.

Review Finds Tea Beneficial Against Cardiovascular Disease
Research suggests that flavonols, a type of antioxidant in both black and green tea, have cardiovascular-protective properties.  To read more, click here.

Active component of grape seed extract effective against cancer cells

B2G2, the most active component of grape seed extract, induces the cell death known as apoptosis in prostate cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed.  To read more, click here.

Collagen Improves Joint Health
In a recent study, researchers found that collagen supplementation was associated with joint health benefits.  To read more, click here.