News
Omega-3 fatty acids may reduce gum disease risk
28 October 2010
Dietary intake of the omega-3 fatty acids may be associated with a decreased prevalence of periodontitis of up to 20 percent, a new US study suggests.
12 January 2010
Leafy green vegetables and multivitamins could serve as protective factors against lung cancer in current and former smokers, according to a new study.
In the study, more than 1,100 current and former smokers submitted sputum samples and completed questionnaires regarding their dietary intake (1). The researchers analyzed cells in the sputum samples for the methylation status of genes that were linked to increased risk for lung cancer in previous studies. Aberrant gene methylation – the addition of a methyl (-CH3) group to DNA – is likely to be a major mechanism in lung cancer development and progression, as well as a potential marker for the early detection of lung cancer. The researchers next investigated associations between dietary variables and methylation.
The results showed that higher intakes of leafy green vegetables and multivitamin supplements rich in carotenoids (beta-carotene and lutein), vitamin C, vitamin B9 (folate), vitamin A and vitamin K were significantly associated with a reduced probability of high methylation, potentially associated with a reduced cancer risk.
The researchers said that in contrast to other findings suggesting that supplements containing beta-carotene conceivably increase the risk of lung cancer in heavy smokers when taken in extremely high doses over years, their results show that multivitamins may reduce cancer risk even in smokers.
Previous studies have suggested an association between a low vitamin B9 (folate) intake and increased lung cancer risk in current and former smokers. Higher folate intake has been associated with lower methylation of genes in colorectal tumors as well.
Additional research is needed to independently validate the current observations, and also to help resolve contradictions between varying studies, the authors concluded.
28 October 2010
Dietary intake of the omega-3 fatty acids may be associated with a decreased prevalence of periodontitis of up to 20 percent, a new US study suggests.
1 May 2011
High concentrations of oxygen radicals in the body (oxidative stress) have been linked to the exacerbation of atherosclerosis and hence the onset of cardiovascular disease. At the same time, observation studies have consistently indicated that antioxidant micronutrients in the diet could have a protective effect in the context of cardiovascular disease.
20 February 2013
A new study from Spain suggests that regular intake of fish containing vitamin D, calcium and omega-3 fatty acids may be of importance to maintain bone mass.