28 September 2009
A combination of omega-3 fatty acids and coenzyme Q10 may decrease blood pressure and heart rate in kidney disease patients, reports a new study.
The results of the randomized controlled trial showed that people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) receiving omega-3 fatty acids (4 grams) for 8 weeks experienced a 3.3 and 2.9 mmHg decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and a reduction of heart rate of 4.0 beats per minute (1). Furthermore, triglyceride levels decreased by 24 percent in this group.
In the group receiving omega-3 fatty acids plus coenzyme Q10 (200 mg), systolic and diastolic blood pressure improved by 2.7 and 3.4 mmHg, respectively. CoQ10 did not benefit blood pressure and was associated with a slight increase in heart rate.
The researchers commented that the finding of an interaction between omega-3 fatty acids and CoQ10 on blood pressure is difficult to explain in view of the lack of effect of CoQ10 alone on blood pressure and needs confirmation.
According to the publication, CKD increases the risk of heart disease two- to 50-fold and increases the prevalence of all-cause mortality and hospitalization. Modifiable risk factors include high blood pressure (hypertension). By lowering blood pressure, omega-3 fatty acids may reduce cardiovascular risk in non-diabetic patients with moderate-to-severe CKD.
19 October 2009
Amplifying antidepressant therapy with an omega-3 fatty acid supplement does not result in improvement in levels of depression in patients with coronary heart disease, a new study reports.
6 August 2014
A new UK review reports that taking supplements with folic acid and/or vitamin B12 does not slow age-related mental decline. Experts commented that these conclusions are in contrast to the well accepted benefits of B vitamins for brain health and ignore latest research.
1 September 2012
The number of people who exercise, and their understanding of the role of nutrition in sports performance, is increasing: The percentage of Americans and Europeans who are physically active increased significantly over the last decade (1-3). In addition, people are tending to stay active for longer (4). The body needs carbohydrates, protein, fats (especially polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids), vitamins and minerals in order to function properly. Prolonged exercise performed on a regular basis may result in increased micronutrient losses from the body or in an increased rate of turnover, resulting in the need for an increased dietary intake. Today’s science of sports nutrition is sophisticated, revealing new insights about the measurable benefits of micronutrients, the amounts needed thereof, and the appropriate timing of intake.
