News
Adequate vitamin D intake may improve cognitive function
1 February 2011
A new French study suggests that regular dietary intake of vitamin D may be associated with an increased cognitive performance among older adults.
13 October 2014
A new UK study reports that increased intakes of omega-3 fatty acids decreased the incidence and/or delay the onset of interferon-alpha-induced depression in patients being treated for hepatitis C.
In the randomized controlled trial, 152 patients with hepatitis C received two weeks of treatment with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) or placebo (1). Following the two-week treatment, the patients received a 24-week course of interferon-alpha treatment and were evaluated repeatedly for depression. The study results showed that treatment with EPA, but not DHA or placebo, decreased the incidence of interferon-alpha-induced depression in the participants from approximately 30% to 10%. In addition, both EPA and DHA delayed the onset of depression. Both omega-3 fatty acids were well tolerated, with no serious side effects.
The researchers commented that these new data provide promising support for omega-3 fatty acids to prevent depression, complementing other studies where they were found to enhance antidepressant treatment. Earlier research showed that people with low blood levels of EPA were at higher risk of developing depression. Therefore, an increased intake of omega-3 fatty acids may restore the natural protective anti-inflammatory capabilities of the body, and thus protects patients from new-onset depression when inflammation occurs.
1 February 2011
A new French study suggests that regular dietary intake of vitamin D may be associated with an increased cognitive performance among older adults.
4 April 2014
According to a new study from China school children with vitamin D deficiency have an elevated risk of developing diseases caused by higher levels of obesity and oxidative stress.
19 March 2014
A new data review suggests that while higher blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids may be linked with a reduced coronary disease risk, the overall evidence is insufficient to encourage high consumption of omega-3 fatty acids for cardiovascular health. Experts commented that the new data analysis should not change the current recommendation of diets high in polyunsaturated fats.