News
Lutein and zeaxanthin may decrease cataract risk
19 March 2012
A new Finnish study indicates that increased blood levels of lutein and zeaxanthin may reduce the risk of cataracts by about 40%.
06 January 2011
Given its greater potency and lower cost, vitamin D 3 should be the preferred treatment option when correcting vitamin D deficiency, according to a new US study.
In the randomized controlled trial, 35 healthy adults were treated either with 50,000 IU per week (equivalent to 180 micrograms/day) of vitamin D2 or vitamin D3 for 12 weeks (1). To compare the potencies of vitamin D2 and D3 in raising and maintaining vitamin D blood concentrations, the 25(OH)D concentrations in serum and subcutaneous fat were measured in both groups. The results showed that vitamin D3 is approximately 87% more potent in raising and maintaining serum 25(OH)D concentrations and produces 2 to 3-fold greater storage of vitamin D in fat than vitamin D2. When estimating the level of vitamin D3 in total body fat, the stored vitamin amounted to just 17% of the administered dose commonly used by clinicians treating vitamin D deficiency today.
The scientists concluded that vitamin D3 should be regarded as the preferred vitamin D form suitable for treatment, supplementation or fortification. In the past, several studies with different doses and dosing regimens had reported on contradictory potencies of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) and vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) in elevating or sustaining serum 25(OH)D concentrations.
19 March 2012
A new Finnish study indicates that increased blood levels of lutein and zeaxanthin may reduce the risk of cataracts by about 40%.
3 June 2013
A new study from Canada suggests that taking up to 1,000 mg of calcium per day may lower women’s mortality risk.
8 September 2015
A new review from China reports that higher blood concentrations of vitamin D may protect against bladder cancer.