News
Minimum folate level for colon health maybe identified
13 June 2011
A minimum serum folate concentration of 8.0 ng/ml is needed for effective reduction of colorectal cancer risk, says a new Japanese study.
17 February 2011
According to a new review, zinc supplements may reduce the severity and duration of symptoms associated with the common cold.
The review of 15 randomized controlled trials found that, after seven days, more patients taking zinc supplements (syrup, lozenges or tablets), taken within 24 hours of the first signs of a cold, had cleared their symptoms compared to placebo (1). When supplemented for at least five months, zinc also reduced cold incidence, school absenteeism and prescription of antibiotics in children.
The researchers commented that the review strengthens the evidence for zinc as a treatment for the common cold. However, it is difficult to make a general recommendation because not enough is known about the optimum dose, formulation or length of treatment. In vitro assays have indicated that zinc possesses antiviral properties, lending biological plausibility to the study results.
The common cold is one of the most widespread illnesses in the world. It is estimated that adults suffer from between two to four episodes annually, while children in school may have 12 episodes per year. There is, however, no proven treatment for the common cold.
13 June 2011
A minimum serum folate concentration of 8.0 ng/ml is needed for effective reduction of colorectal cancer risk, says a new Japanese study.
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.
6 May 2013
The UK National Osteoporosis Society has developed new clinical guidelines for the management of vitamin D deficiency due to a lack of national recommendations on the indications for vitamin D measurements and conflicting guidelines from various organizations.