News
Vitamin D may improve colorectal cancer survival
10 September 2009
Higher blood levels of vitamin D may double survival rates of colorectal cancer patients, suggests a new US study.
12 November 2014
According to a new study from Israel asthmatics who are vitamin D-deficient seem to be at a higher risk of an asthma attack.
The observational study analyzed data on blood vitamin D levels and physician diagnoses of asthma attacks of about 21,000 young adult asthma patients (1). The analysis showed that patients with vitamin D deficiency were 25% more likely than other asthmatics to have had at least one acute asthmatic episode in the recent past.
The researchers commented that vitamin D has significant immune system modulating effects and is believed to have an effect on asthma, as an immunologically mediated disease. So far, most of the existing data regarding vitamin D and asthma came from the pediatric population and was inconsistent. The new findings add more evidence to the link between vitamin D and asthma, suggesting beneficial effects of the vitamin on asthma exacerbations. Increasing vitamin D levels is something which can be easily done to improve patients’ quality of life, the scientists said. For patients with a vitamin D deficiency, supplements may make sense. Asthma, which inflames and narrows the airways, has become more common in recent years. While there is no known cure, asthma can be managed with medication and by avoiding allergens and other triggers.
10 September 2009
Higher blood levels of vitamin D may double survival rates of colorectal cancer patients, suggests a new US study.
7 November 2014
Researchers in Canada have developed a novel method to test for vitamin B12 deficiency with a single drop of blood.
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.