News
Zinc may reduce prostate cancer mortality
15 March 2011
High dietary intakes of zinc after diagnosis may be associated with lower prostate cancer-specific mortality for men, says a new Swedish study.
29 January 2014
A new study from Denmark suggests that multivitamin use during the period from before conception to early pregnancy may be linked to a slightly higher risk of early fetal loss. Experts criticize the study for not proving a cause and effect relationship.
The observational study analyzed self-reported data from 35, 914 women on vitamin supplement use during a 12-week period from before conception to early pregnancy (periconceptional) and cases of fetal death (1). The data analysis indicated that women using multivitamins had a small increased risk of early (but not late) fetal death. The use of folate supplements alone was not associated with fetal death.
The researchers noted that further studies on preconceptional multivitamin use are needed to guide public health recommendations. Experts commented that the observed association does not allow one to come to valid conclusions. The study did not measure the nutritional status (e.g., blood concentrations of the single vitamins) of the participants. Earlier research found that women with low levels of folic acid had a 50% in- creased risk of losing their babies early in pregnancy (2, 3). In addition, having enough folic acid in the early months of pregnancy can reduce the risk of having a baby born with a serious birth defect of the brain or spine (4). Early fetal death is very common, occurring in 15% of pregnancies in the developed world.
15 March 2011
High dietary intakes of zinc after diagnosis may be associated with lower prostate cancer-specific mortality for men, says a new Swedish study.
1 July 2012
Mental energy is seen as a combination of high cognitive functioning, high levels of alertness, a motivation to do more and a positive, optimistic mood. Depending on individual circadian rhythms, mental energy levels can change within a 24 hour time period. There is no clear explanation for occasions where mental performance is at its highest in some people and lowest in others. Besides genetics, sleep and pain, oxygen supply and water intake can also influence mental energy or arousal. In addition, the types of foods consumed can enhance or reduce one’s level of mental energy. While glucose is the favorite energy source for the nerve cells, caffeine can increase reaction speed and enhance alertness. Micronutrients such as B vitamins, antioxidant vitamins, coenzyme Q10 and omega-3 fatty acids are also known to influence mental energy.
25 February 2013
According to a new study, increased intakes of antioxidants found in coffee and tea, such as flavonoids, do not seem to decrease the risk of developing stroke or dementia for elderly people. Other studies observed potential preventive effects of higher consumptions of fruits and vegetables containing antioxidant beta-carotene and vitamins C and E.