expert opinion
What insights can be expected from micronutrient supplementation studies?
Evidence of the efficacy of multiple micronutrient supplementation has been established with randomized controlled trials.
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Topic of the Month
The antioxidant activity of micronutrients
Metabolic processes that occur in the presence of oxygen, innate immune defense processes and external factors lead to the formation of so-called reactive oxygen species, (ROS), the ‘prooxidants’ that oxidize lipids, DNA and proteins and can impair their functioning. A sufficient intake of plant-typical ingredients with ‘antioxidant’ activity appears to play an important role in preventing degenerative diseases like cardiovascular disease and some kinds of cancer. Prominent among these substances, which the human organism cannot synthesize for itself, are the carotenoids, vitamins C and E, and the flavonoids.
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expert opinion
Staple food fortification – past, present and future
Staple food fortification can be used to increase the micronutrient content of foods or to replace nutrients lost in food processing.
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expert opinion
The requirements and health effects of omega-3 fatty acids in childhood
Very long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids have come to the attention of scientists and health professionals over the last couple of decades due to their role in heart health.
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Topic of the Month
Micronutrients and oral health
Healthy teeth and gums are a significant factor in demonstrating quality of life and ought to be preserved into old age. Aside from adequate oral hygiene, nutrition makes a fundamental contribution in doing so. Both an excess and a lack of certain nutrients in the diet can lead to characteristic oral disorders. A shortage of micronutrients, for example, can considerably impair oral health. Conversely, oral health problems can contribute to malnutrition, as can be seen in people who cannot chew without pain or discomfort because of a disorder or in people without teeth.
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expert opinion
“Hidden hunger” – being full isn’t enough
One in every seven people worldwide suffer from chronic hunger. Yet the vast amount of people who suffer from “hidden hunger” are often neglected.
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expert opinion
Dietary supplements and mortality in older women – a response to a scientific publication
A recently published study puts forward the hypothesis that older women who take dietary supplements have a higher risk of death.
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Topic of the Month
Nutritional programming
Embryonic and fetal development, as well as the early life of a newborn, are periods of physiological plasticity during which environmental influences may produce long-term effects. Both undernutrition and overnutrition during these periods have been shown to change disease risk in adulthood. These effects are influenced by the type, timing and duration of inappropriate nutrition.
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expert opinion
Nutritional programming during pregnancy and in early life
Inadequate intakes of micro- and macronutrients in early life have been shown to affect lifelong health, increasing the risk of developing obesity, cardiovascular disease, chronic lung disease, and behavioral and cognitive problems.
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expert opinion
Where do Americans get their nutrients?
Micronutrient needs are ideally met by consuming foods that provide a well-balanced, nutrient-dense diet. However, many individuals have diets that are low in one or more micronutrients.