Research Tips

January 14, 2009
Headaches have many causes: stress, lack of sleep, and poor posture for an extended time. But remember headaches also can be caused by skipping meals.
National Headache Foundation


January 22, 2009
If you have Restless Legs Syndrome, you may be iron deficient. Have your physician check the ferritin in your blood. A number less than 50 indicates more iron is needed to reverse this nutrition deficiency.
Mov Disord. 2008 Jun 15;23(8):1184-7


January 31, 2009
Star fruit (also known as carambola) is a good source of vitamin C. If, however, you have impaired kidney function, you need to find other sources of vitamin C. Medical research shows that star fruit can cause kidney failure in those with impaired kidney function.
Food Chem Toxicol. 2008 May;46(5):1744-52.


February 27, 2009
If you experience GERD, commonly known as heartburn, eat moderate sized meals, stay upright after eating for at least two hours, and eliminate foods that don’t agree with you. Also, inform your doctor of heartburn symptoms if you are taking a new medication.
Nutr Clin Pract. 2008 Jun-Jul;23(3):293-8.


March 16, 2009
Everyone knows that consuming enough high calcium foods is good for bones, but did you know that it also lowers the risk of developing kidney stones?
Arch Intern Med. 2004 Apr 26;164(8):885-91.


March 20, 2009
Exercise can provoke asthma in some people, however regular exercise can actually reduce the frequency of attacks. There is also some evidence that staying hydrated with plenty of fluids helps to reduce asthma in general.
Eur J Clin Nutr. 2003 Dec;57 Suppl 2:S81-7.


March 21, 2009
Consuming three to four milk product servings daily is estimated to cut the risk of developing kidney stones in half by reducing the amount of oxalate absorbed from high-oxalate foods such as spinach, amaranth, cassava and taro leaves.
Ther Umsch. 2000 Mar;57(3):138-45.


March 26, 2009
Poor iron nutrition can impair the ability of the thyroid gland to use iodine to produce thyroid hormone. It is a good idea for people with thyroid problems to get a full evaluation of their iron status.
Thyroid. 2002 Oct;12(10):867-78.


March 27, 2009
There is evidence that some of the complications of diabetes are caused by an increased need for vitamin B1. Foods rich in vitamin B1 (thiamin) include pork, nuts, fish, soybeans, and enriched grain products.
Curr Diabetes Rev. 2005 Aug;1(3):287-98.


March 31, 2009
A sedentary lifestyle is one of the major contributors to the development of type 2 diabetes. Daily exercise is a cornerstone in the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes.
J Appl Physiol. 2007 Oct;103(4):1113-20. Epub 2007 Jul 26.


April 4, 2009
A 28-year old theory proposes that iron accumulation in the body increases the risk for coronary heart disease. To date, however, this theory remains unproved, with several studies refuting the theory. It is likely that both too much and too little iron increase health risks.
Can J Cardiovasc Nurs. 2009;19(1):26-32.


April 5, 2009
A healthy body contains trillions of bacterial organisms living in the intestine. This is actually a good thing! The right proportions and amounts of beneficial types of bacteria can protect against infections, the development of some cancers, and possibly even the development of obesity.
Gastroenterology. 2009 Jan;136(1):65-80.


April 18, 2009
The most common type of kidney stones are made of calcium oxalate. But, cutting back on calcium is not the answer. Instead, high calcium foods like milk, cheese, and yogurt reduce the absorption of oxalate and help to decrease stone formation.
Urology. 2009 Mar;73(3):484-9.


April 24, 2009
Vitamin K contributes to bone health by helping bones retain calcium. In contrast, vitamin K benefits cardiovascular health by preventing calcium accumulation in blood vessels and hardening of the arteries.
Thromb Haemost. 2007 Jul;98(1):120-5.


April 29, 2009
A high level of blood triglycerides is one of many risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Consuming fish two or three times a week provides omega-3 fatty acids that can help to decrease triglycerides.
Nutr Health. 2009;20(1):11-20.


April 30, 2009
Disease mongering is the process of enlarging the market for a disease treatment by convincing people that they have a medical condition that is treatable. Common examples are the TV ads that encourage you to ask your doctor about drug X if you think you have some ailment.
PLoS Med. 2008 May 27;5(5):e106.


May 14, 2009
Why influenza viruses show up when they do is a medical puzzle. One theory proposes that because vitamin D status drops during the winter months, people become more susceptible to infection. Foods high in vitamin D include fatty fish and D-fortified foods like milk.
Virol J. 2008 Feb 25;5:29.


May 16, 2009
An elevated blood level of homocysteine is considered to be a risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease. Taking a daily multi-vitamin with vitamins B6, B12, and folate can help to reduce homocysteine.
Arch Latinoam Nutr. 1997 Jun;47(2 Suppl 1):9-12.


May 22, 2009
Based on current research, fish oils offer a number of protective functions. Adding a large serving of oily fish to the diet may reduce the risk of sudden heart attacks and strokes in women.
J Cardiovasc Med 2007 Sep;8 Suppl 1:S23-6.


May 23, 2009
Although there have been many studies suggesting anti-cancer properties of certain foods, the consensus of scientific studies supports consuming a variety of foods in moderate amounts, including vegetables, fruits and whole grains, along with lower-fat milk and milk products, and lean meats, poultry, fish, beans and nuts.
Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2005 Dec;14(12):2898-904.


May 25, 2009
Good nutrition is especially important before and after surgery. Glutamine, an amino acid especially high in animal foods and available in supplement form, is known to be especially helpful when significant amounts of body tissue must be repaired and replaced.
J Nutr. 2008 Oct;138(10):2040S-2044S.


June 3, 2009
To help your body maintain a healthy heart, take care of the basics. Eat moderate amounts of a wide variety of foods and be sure to include fruits, vegetables, adequate fluids and daily physical activity.
JAMA. 2002 Nov 27;288(20):2569-78.


June 9, 2009
A variety of dietary supplements are promoted for prostate health, but the best research evidence currently supports eating a balanced diet with a good variety of fruits and vegetables and staying fit as the best way to support prostate health.
Am J Mens Health. 2008 Jun;2(2):178-89. Epub 2008 Feb 29.


June 10, 2009
The location of body fat is associated with the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Risk is greatest when most of the fat is located internally around the belly area, creating the apple shape. Incorporate adequate sleep, exercise, relaxation and a balanced diet to decrease your risks.
Curr Diabetes Rev. 2006 Nov;2(4):367-73.


June 21, 2009
An important treatment for type 2 (adult onset) diabetes may be daily exercise like walking and jogging in combination with strength-building resistance exercise two to three times a week. Check with your doctor.
Diabetes Care. 2003 Nov;26(11):2977-82.


June 22, 2009
The statistics are sobering: One in six men will develop prostate cancer. To reduce risk, the American Cancer Society recommends eating at least five servings of fruits and vegetables each day as part of an overall balanced diet.
Am J Mens Health. 2008 Jun;2(2):178-89.


June 29, 2009
Staying physically active may be the most effective way to reduce the risk developing type 2 diabetes. Even those who are overweight have much less risk of developing diabetes if they stay physically active.
Diabetes Res Clin Pract. 2005 Jun;68 Suppl1:S73-81.


July 4, 2009
One of the most common causes of headaches is skipping meals. Carrying a small snack (such as a piece of fruit) may help to keep those hunger headaches away.
Headache. 2009 May;49(5):744-52.


July 6, 2009
To maintain a healthy immune system, the body needs adequate protein for the production of antibodies. Many vitamins and trace minerals are also essential for overall health of the immune system.
J Nutr. 2009 Jan;139(1):113-9.


July 8, 2009
People with diabetes can greatly improve their condition with proper exercise and diet. Since diabetes is associated with a variety of health complications, it is important to work with certified health professionals to develop appropriate diet and exercise programs.
Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes. 2009 Apr;16(2):150-5.


July 15, 2009
Eating a wide variety of foods in a balanced fashion is probably more important for heart health than eating any one "healthy food."
Curr Treat Options Cardiovasc Med. 2004 Aug;6(4):291-302.


August 2, 2009
Diet plays an important role in heart and blood vessel health. Consuming a balanced diet with recommended amounts of vegetables and fruits is especially important for maintaining the health of blood vessels.
Eur J Cardiovasc Prev Rehabil 2010 Feb;17(1):50-5.


August 27, 2009
A research study of over 1200 women found that those consuming more than 1,100 milligrams of calcium daily from foods had almost half the risk of developing kidney stones as those who consumed less than 600 milligrams. Eight ounces of milk or yogurt contain about 300 mg of calcium.
Arch Intern Med. 2004 Apr 26;164(8):885-91.


August 30, 2009
Consuming adequate amounts of thiamin (also known as vitamin B1) has been shown to help decrease the complications of diabetes. Foods rich in thiamin include pork, nuts, fish, soybeans, and enriched grain products.
Curr Diabetes Rev. 2005 Aug;1(3):287-98.


September 12, 2009
Various nutrient deficiencies may play a role in Restless Legs Syndrome. Iron deficiency is the most likely contributor. Deficiencies of folic acid and vitamin B-12 also may be part of the cause in some people.
Altern Med Rev. 2007 Jun;12(2):101-12.


September 18, 2009
When eating to prevent a specific disease is taken to extremes, eating habits can become imbal­anced and lead to unexpected health problems. A diet that promotes long-term health takes a balanced ap­proach to foods.
Can J Public Health. 2005;96 Suppl 3:S15-99, S16-21.


September 19, 2009
Large research studies have clearly demonstrated that the risk for stone formation decreases when calcium consumption is increased and plenty of fluid is consumed.
Ther Umsch. 2000 Mar;57(3):138-45.


September 22, 2009
A person increases the risk of gallstones when there is less stimulus for the gallbladder to contract. Diets that are very low-calorie, low-fat or low-protein decrease the stimulus to the gallbladder.
Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol. 2006;20(6):1063-73.


September 30, 2009
To reduce the risk of breast cancer, the consensus of research studies supports consuming a variety of foods in moderate amounts, including vegetables, fruits and whole grains, along with lower-fat milk and milk products, and lean meats, poultry, fish, beans and nuts.
Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2005 Dec;14(12):2898-904.


October 3, 2009
Good nutrition is always important for health, but eating well both before and after surgery is especially needed. All nutrients are important. A well-balanced diet with adequate protein provides some of your best insurance for success.
J Nutr. 2008 Oct;138(10):2040S-2044S.


October 6, 2009
The plaque that accumulates in the arteries of people with cardiovascular disease often contains calcium. Vitamin K helps to prevent this calcium accumulation called "hardening of the arteries." Green vegetables are a key source of vitamin K in the diet.
Clin J Am Soc Nephrol. 2008 Sep;3(5):1504-10.


October 7, 2009
More than 60 factors are known to trigger primary head­aches. Low blood glucose from skipping meals is one trigger we can control.
National Headache Foundation


October 16, 2009
Including fish as a regular part of your diet is associated with better heart health. Fish high in "heart-healthy" omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, herring, mackerel, sardines, anchovies, tuna, and black cod.
Nutr Health. 2009;20(1):11-20.


October 18, 2009
Fear of foods in the name of health or weight control can create a variety of eating problems. Extreme fear of fat and specific foods can lead to serious health problems and result in dangerous eating disorders.
Physiol Behav. 2007 Sep 10;92(1-2):283-90.


October 23, 2009
Caffeine is often said to be the most commonly consumed drug in the world. Moderate coffee consumption appears to reduce the risk of developing liver and gallstone diseases.
Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2006;46(2):101-23.


October 28, 2009
An important treatment for type 2 (adult onset) diabetes may be daily exercise like walking and jogging in combination with strength-building resistance exercise two to three times a week. Check with your doctor.
Diabetes Care. 2003 Nov;26(11):2977-82.


October 29, 2009
Individuals at risk for diabetes should consider adding strength training to their exercise program. Research indicates that strength-building exercise improves the ability to clear sugar from the blood and helps to build muscle and decrease body fat.
Diabetes Care. 2003 Nov;26(11):2977-82.


November 1, 2009
To help prevent heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), avoid eating large meals, stay upright for at least two hours after eating, exercise when the stomach is empty, maintain a healthy weight, and be happy.
Nutr Clin Pract. 2008 Jun-Jul;23(3):293-8.


November 6, 2009
Your risk of gallstone disease strongly increases during prolonged fasting or rapid weight loss. Besides consuming adequate calories, regular exercise and eating enough fruits and vegetables can lower your risk of gall stones.
Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol. 2006;20(6):1063-73.


November 29, 2009
Fasting and extreme diets can slow down the gallbladder and increase the risk of gallstone formation. Like your brain, your gallbladder appreciates a steady supply of nutrients.
Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol. 2006;20(6):1063-73.


December 21, 2010
The increased risk of cancer sometimes associated with consuming meat may be related only to consuming high-fat and processed meats. Lean red meat provides a number of anticancer micronutrients including selenium and vitamins B6 and B12. Consuming lower fat meats along with plenty of veggies may contribute to reduced cancer risk.
Meat Sci. 2010 Feb;84(2):308-13. Epub 2009 Jun 23.


December 26, 2009
There are more than 60 known factors triggering primary head­aches, but low carbohydrate consumption and caffeine withdrawal are two key causative factors. To prevent those holiday headaches, don't starve yourself before the holiday parties.
Headache. 2009 May;49(5):744-52.


January 3, 2010
A common cause of headaches is low blood sugar. Dips in blood sugar levels can be caused by skipping meals or fasting. When dieting, be sure to spread out your meals. Your brain will thank you.
Headache. 2009 May;49(5):744-52.


January 9, 2010
Exercise can help to maintain healthy blood glucose levels. For some diabetics, exercise can cause blood glucose to drop too low. Therefore, it is essential to work with appropriately trained health professionals to determine the best exercise program.
Sports Med. 2007;37(11):937-46.


January 10, 2010
Research indicates that increased blood levels of the compound homocysteine leads to heart disease. Consuming adequate amounts of folic acid in foods or supplements can help to lower homocysteine levels.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2000 Jun;71(6):1448-54.


January 15, 2010
Maintaining a healthy heart means taking care of nutrition basics. Eat moderate amounts of a wide variety of foods and be sure to include fruits, vegetables, adequate fluids and daily physical activity.
Nutr Rev. 1998 May;56(5 Pt 2):S3-19; discussion S19-28.


January 22, 2010
Researchers find that poor nutrition may predispose some people to developing eating disorders and successful treatment requires learning how to eat again.
Front Neuroendocrinol. 2008 Oct;29(4):445-62.


January 25, 2010
Impaired thyroid function can result from many causes. Poor iron nutrition is known to be one possible contributor.
Thyroid. 2002 Oct;12(10):867-78.


February 21, 2010
With all the recent hype to limit salt intake, don't forget that the balance of nutrients in the overall diet may be more important to health. Despite being high in salt, the Japanese diet has a great variety of foods and is associated with a low risk of cardiovascular disease.
Int J Epidemiol. 2007 Jun;36(3):600-9. Epub 2007 Feb 22.


February 24, 2010
Research at the University of Connecticut shows that vitamin B-12 and folate may be important nutrients in preventing canker sores.
J Oral Pathol Med. 2010 Feb 7. [Epub ahead of print]


March 1, 2010
Although it is commonly believed that coffee increases blood pressure, most research evidence indicates that daily consumption of coffee does not increase the risk of high blood pressure.
Vasc Health Risk Manag. 2008;4(5):963-70.


March 2, 2010
Overly low blood pressure (hypotension) can impair both brain function and balance. Caffeine sources like coffee and tea may help some people avoid the blood-pressure drops that commonly occur following meals.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2007 Feb;85(2):392-8.


March 11, 2010
Research shows that moderate coffee consumption appears to reduce the risk of developing Parkinson's disease. Although these types of studies can't claim cause and effect, they do reduce concerns about potential harmful effects.
Mov Disord. 2007 Nov 15;22(15):2242-8.


March 20, 2010
Tomatoes contain a compound called lycopene that is associated with reduced risk of prostate cancer, heart disease, and macular degeneration. Consume tomatoes and tomato sauces with vegetable oils for better absorption of lycopene.
Canadian Medical Association Journal. 2000 Sep 19;163(6):739-44.


March 30, 2010
Meeting essential nutrient requirements is always required for good health, but it becomes especially critical when a person needs surgery. Plan ahead on good nutrition before surgery to maintain a strong immune system and to assure speedy tissue repair.
Curr Opin Crit Care. 2008 Dec;14(6):690-5.


April 7, 2010
Too often headaches are blamed on stress or lack of sleep, when something as simple as skipping meals and dehydration can be the culprit.
National Headache Foundation


April 9, 2010
Two of the major risk factors for gallstone disease are prolonged fasting and rapid weight loss. Restricted food intake, especially when low in fat, slows the release of bile from the gall bladder and gallstones are more likely to form.
Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol. 2006;20(6):1063-73.


April 15, 2010
Controlling high blood pressure takes more than just cutting back on salt. A low intake of magnesium also can contribute to high blood pressure. Green vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and beans are all good food sources of magnesium.
Nutr Clin Pract. 2008 Apr-May;23(2):142-51.


April 17, 2010
Prevention of obesity and type 2 diabetes requires both children and adults to consume a health-promoting diet of wholesome foods that meet nutrient needs with a moderate amount of calories.
Diabetes Care. 2008 Nov;31(11):2120-5.


April 20, 2010
People taking "blood thinner" drugs are commonly advised to avoid high vitamin K foods. However, since vitamin K plays a role in preventing "hardening of the arteries," researchers are now advising physicians to adjust the drug dose to a steady day to day intake of vitamin K.
Thromb Haemost. 2007 Jul;98(1):120-5.


April 27, 2010
It is not uncommon for the media to promote a drug for common symptoms that could actually be due to a nutrient deficient diet. Don't let fear of a possible disease hook you into a drug solution just because it is easier than eating a balanced diet.
PLoS Med. 2008 May 27;5(5):e106.


May 10, 2010
Daily exercise is not just for looking good. Regular exercise also is important for both the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes.
J Appl Physiol. 2007 Oct;103(4):1113-20. Epub 2007 Jul 26.


May 11, 2010
Like cholesterol, high blood levels of triglycerides are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Including fish as a regular part of your diet is associated with better heart health.
Nutr Health. 2009;20(1):11-20


May 18, 2010
The consumption of fresh vegetables and fruits has a strong protective effect for coronary heart disease. Now research also indicates there is likely a protective effect to cognitive function as we age.
Int Psychogeriatr. 2010 Mar;22(2):174-87.


June 2, 2010
Low potassium intake has been linked to hypertension in overweight children. Edamame (green soybeans) makes a great lower calorie high potassium snack.
J Pediatr. 2010 May 18.


June 25, 2010
Diets rich in fruits and vegetables are recommended for reducing cancer risk. Incorporate local tropical fruits and vegetables into your daily diet to help yourself and your local farmer.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2003 Sep;78(3 Suppl):559S-569S.


June 27, 2010
Many drugs used to treat heartburn greatly reduce how much vitamin B-12 is absorbed from foods. Consequently, people using GERD medications should take a supplemental source of vitamin B-12.
Ann Pharmacother. 2002 May;36(5):812-6.


June 30, 2010
Those with a family history of diabetes can reduce their own risk of developing the disease by maintaining a daily habit of vigorous exercise.
Diabetes Res Clin Pract. 2005 Jun;68 Suppl1:S73-81.


July 14, 2010
Since the immune system is clearly involved in psoriasis, maintaining a healthy immune system helps to deal with the disease. Many nutrients are involved in supporting immune function, so meeting all nutrient needs may be step one in treating psoriasis.
Br J Dermatol. 2005 Oct;153(4):706-14.


July 17, 2010
Consuming adequate fruits, vegetables, and fish can help to maintain the health of your blood vessels and heart.
Eur J Cardiovasc Prev Rehabil. 2010 Feb;17(1):50-5.


July 20, 2010
Prolonged stress has been shown to have negative effects on the cardiovascular system. Regular daily exercise is a great way to release stress and benefit heart and blood vessel health.
Cardiovascular Consequences of Chronic Stress


August 8, 2010
Over 70 percent of all kidney stones contain calcium oxalate. Increasing calcium intake while eating oxalate-rich foods reduces the risk of kidney stones.
Nephrol Dial Transplant. 1998 Sep;13(9):2241-7.


August 16, 2010
Alternative “cures” for cancer can be very tempting to cancer patients. However, opting for questionable therapies can be very risky and can delay evidence-based treatments to the point that they may no longer be effective.
Ir Med J. 2008 Mar;101(3):82-4.


August 21, 2010
Research indicates that vitamin C does not prevent colds, but it can help to reduce the duration and severity of common cold symptoms.
Scand J Infect Dis. 1994;26(1):1-6.


September 8, 2010
Breast cancer risk does not seem to be linked to any specific types of foods in the diet. Moderating risk appears to involve consuming a wide variety of foods in moderate amounts from among all types of foods. However, excessive alcohol consumption and excess body weight are both linked to increased breast cancer risk.
Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol. 2009 Feb;21(1):80-5.


September 12, 2010
Keeping a wide variety of foods in the diet is extremely important, even for the prevention of hypothyroidism. Excessive consumption of cruciferous (cabbage family) vegetables, soy products, and millet can interfere with thyroid hormone production.
Endocr Rev. 2009 Jun;30(4):376-408. Epub 2009 May 21.


September 14, 2010
People with type 1 and type 2 diabetes often have low blood levels of thiamin (vitamin B-1). This is likely due to increased daily loss of thiamin in the urine. Foods rich in thiamin include pork, nuts, fish, soybeans, and enriched grain products.
Curr Diabetes Rev. 2005 Aug;1(3):287-98.


September 19, 2010
The most common kidney stones are calcium oxalate. Interestingly, low calcium diets increase the risk of forming these stones, apparently because more oxalate is absorbed from the diet when dietary calcium is low.
Clin J Am Soc Nephrol. 2010 Sep 16. [Epub ahead of print]


September 23, 2010
To decrease your risk of cancer, scientific studies support eating a wide variety of foods, including vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans and nuts, as well as lower-fat milk products, lean meats, poultry, fish.
Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2005 Dec;14(12):2898-904.


September 30, 2010
People with diabetes can make major improvements in their condition with the right type of exercise and diet. Diabetic athletes are best managed individually by a team of medical professionals including the athletic trainer, sports nutritionist, and physician.
Clin Sports Med. 2009 Jul;28(3):479-95.


October 5, 2010
Vitamin D is important for a healthy immune system and may be especially important as we enter into flu season. Recent research indicates that even those with seemingly adequate sun exposure may be low in vitamin D. Good sources of vitamin D include fatty fish, fortified milk, and dietary supplements.
J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2007 Jun;92(6):2130-5.


October 11, 2010
People with cancer often need to follow diets different from what they believe is healthy. Plenty of protein and calories can be needed to keep up strength and rebuild tissues harmed by cancer treatment. Ask your physician to refer you to a dietitian for help.
CA Cancer J Clin. 2006 Nov-Dec;56(6):323-53.


October 23, 2010
Decreasing salt in your diet and increasing high potassium foods may or may not reduce your blood pressure. Researchers are working toward finding the specific genes that can help to identify those who are salt sensitive.
J Hum Hypertens. 2010 Sep 23. [Epub ahead of print]


October 31, 2010
Got heartburn? To avoid symptoms while sleeping, don't eat close to bedtime and consider adding a slight incline to your bed to raise the upper body. Also, sleeping on the left side causes less symptoms than sleeping on the right side.
Am J Gastroenterol. 2000 Oct;95(10):2731-6.


November 4, 2010
Gallstone disease can cause extreme pain and require surgery. Risk of developing gallstones is greatly increased by prolonged fasting or rapid weight loss. Risk is decreased by consuming adequate calories, exercising regularly, and eating recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables.
Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol. 2006;20(6):1063-73.


November 11, 2010
Based on four studies conducted before 2007, the American Institute for Cancer Research stated that there was "limited evidence from sparse and inconsistent studies suggesting that processed meat is a cause of prostate cancer." However, a recent "meta-analysis" of 26 studies found that the consumption of red meat or processed meat had no positive association with the occurrence of prostate cancer.
Nutrition Journal 2010, 9:50.


November 20, 2010
The phytochemical lycopene found in tomatoes is associated with a reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration in the retina of the eye. The best absorbed sources include commonly used tomato sauce and catsup.
Can Med Assoc J. 2000 Sep 19;163(6):739-44.


December 4, 2010
People often skip meals as they get busy. Remember, fasting is a strong headache trigger, especially among chronic headache sufferers.
Neurology. 1995 Nov;45(11):1953-5.


December 5, 2010
Regular exercise is an important component for the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes. Federal guidelines and a position statement from the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Diabetes Association recommend at least 150 minutes of aerobic exercise a week.
Med Sci Sports Exer. 2010;42(12):2282-2303.


December 10, 2010
Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is a compound in milk that is associated with decreased risk for heart disease and diabetes. Maybe this is why Santa likes milk with his cookies.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2004 Oct;80(4):887-95.


December 13, 2010
Cold and flu viruses often spread when people get together for the holidays. Hot chicken soup can help treat the symptoms by known anti-inflammatory effects and by temporarily increasing the flow of mucus.
Chest. 2009 Nov;136(5 Suppl):e29.


December 25, 2010
Meeting nutritional needs is very difficult when a person cannot count on obtaining adequate amounts of food. USDA indicates that between 5 - 10% of the US population is food insecure. Specific populations, including college students, may have even higher rates of food insecurity.
Public Health Nutr. 2009 Nov;12(11):2097-103.


December 31, 2010
Research indicates that greater intakes of dietary calcium reduces the risk of kidney stone formation in both younger and older women.
Arch Intern Med. 2004 Apr 26;164(8):885-91.


January 10, 2011
Regular physical activity helps to maintain healthy blood glucose levels. For some diabetics, however, exercise can cause blood glucose to drop too low. Consequently, people with diabetes should work with appropriately trained health professionals to design their best exercise program.
Sports Med. 2007;37(11):937-46.


February 2, 2011
Reversing type 2 diabetes without drugs is possible. It requires major changes in lifestyle that include increased daily exercise, cutting back on high calorie foods, and eating an overall healthful diet that meets nutrient needs.
J Appl Physiol. 2008 May;104(5):1313-9.


February 12, 2011
Researchers reported at this year’s International Stroke Conference that daily consumption of diet soda is associated with a greater risk of stroke. A critical commentary on this study from the American Council on Science and Health considers the study to be flawed and doubts that it will be publishable in a reputable peer- reviewed journal.
Stroke Vol 42, No 3 March 2011, Abstract # Th P55, page e273


February 17, 2011
Infants and children sometimes develop constipation. Increasing food sources of dietary fiber can help to relieve this problem. However, increasing the child's fiber intake too high for too long can seriously impair the absorption of essential minerals.
J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 1982;1(1):91-5.


February 19, 2011
While monitoring over 600 adults with type 2 diabetes during a 10-year period, Australian researchers found that those with the greatest amount of salt in their diet had the lowest risk of dying during the study period. The researchers stress that more research is needed, but emphasize that restricting salt is not always beneficial.
Diabetes Care. 2011 Feb 2. [Epub ahead of print]


February 20, 2011
Celiac disease damages the intestinal lining and can impair the absorption of some vitamins and minerals. As a consequence, both children and adults with celiac disease are at increased risk for low bone density. Recent research suggests that taking supplements with vitamins D and K may be especially important to prevent bone loss in those with celiac disease.
Clin Rev Allergy Immunol. 2011 Jan 7. [Epub ahead of print]


February 24, 2011
Vitamin D is known to play a role in supporting normal immune function. A recent study reported that children and adolescents with low vitamin D status were much more likely to have environmental and food allergies than those with normal vitamin D status.
J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2011 Feb 15.


February 27, 2011
Alzheimer's disease is diagnosed primarily by observation of progressive impairment of memory and other cognitive functions. Research often links high homocysteine and low vitamin B-12 status with the development of Alzheimer's disease. Since, however, B-12 deficiency causes direct damage to nerve structure and can impair memory, B-12 deficiency (which is easily treated) could be misdiagnosed as Alzheimer's disease.
Neurology. 2010 Oct 19;75(16):1408-14.


March 8, 2011
About half of us are infected with the bacteria Helicobacter pylori that lives in the stomach lining. Most of us have no obvious symptoms, however, research indicates that children, infected with H. pylori have lower iron levels than children previously treated for this bacteria. Since adequate iron is essential for normal brain development and function, it may become more routine to test children for the presence of H. pylori.
Am J Epidemiol. 2006 Jan 15;163(2):127-34. Epub 2005 Nov 23.


March 15, 2011
A study of nursing facility residents found that those with low serum (blood) zinc concentrations were much more likely to develop pneumonia and to take longer to recover than those with normal zinc levels. Those with low zinc status also had lower protein status. This makes sense because the main foods that provide well-absorbed zinc are animal protein foods.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2007 Oct;86(4):1167-3.


March 17, 2011
A large European study found that participants with higher levels of "good" HDL cholesterol had lower risk of developing bowel cancer. If other studies support this observation, HDL levels may be used to assess more than risk of cardiovascular disease.
Gut (2011). doi:10.1136/gut.2010.225011


March 20, 2011
The long-term balance between physical activity and calorie intake determines body weight and body fat levels. People who have the painful condition called fibromyalgia are frequently overweight. Some researchers suggest that weight loss may improve the condition. However, the person with fibromyalgia is in a bit of a bind because the condition causes physical activity to be more painful and, thus, weight loss more difficult.
J Pain. 2010 Dec;11(12):1329-37. Epub 2010 Jun 9


March 21, 2011
Both Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) and celiac disease have been linked to low iron status. Although the cause and effect relationships are not entirely clear, evaluating both iron status and the presence of celiac disease is recommended for the medical assessment of RLS.
Sleep Med. 2009 Aug;10(7):763-5.


March 27, 2011
A study that followed almost 4000 people for 20 years found that those who consumed the greatest amounts of a trans fatty acid (trans-palmitoleate) naturally present in milk fat had better insulin sensitivity and were less likely to develop diabetes. Based on these results, skim milk may not be the best option.
Ann Intern Med. 2010 Dec 21;153(12):790-9.


April 7, 2011
The isoflavones in soy foods can bind to estrogen receptors and influence estrogen function. Based on this and on animal study results, researchers have expressed concerns that soy foods might promote breast cancer development. However, a recent study of over 16,000 breast cancer survivors found that soy food intake did not increase breast cancer risk.
J Nutr. 2001 Nov;131(11 Suppl):3095S-108S.


April 8, 2011
Recent research with overweight and obese Yup'ik Eskimos found that those with a high intake of fish had high blood levels of the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oils. Those with the highest levels had reduced reduced risk factors for cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Eur J Clin Nutr. 2011 Mar 23


April 13, 2011
A recent study of children who suffered from serious burn injury found that the body's vitamin E levels tended to drop to seriously low levels during the first 4 weeks of recovery. It is not known why this extreme physiological stress on the body affects vitamin E status or if other types of stress have similar effect.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2010 Dec;92(6):1378-84.


April 22, 2011
High blood glucose levels in diabetes are known to contribute to progressive kidney damage (diabetic nephropathy). A recent study of diabetic mice found that a low carbohydrate "ketogenic" diet reversed diabetic nephropathy in two months. The researchers plan to explore how their observations may be tested further in humans.
PLoS ONE 6(4): e18604.


April 23, 2011
Obesity can include accumulation of fat in the liver, leading to "non-alcoholic fatty liver disease." Weight loss and increased physical activity help to treat the condition. In addition, recent research supports consuming a low carbohydrate diet for a few weeks to help reduce fat in the liver.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2011 May;93(5):1048-52.


April 27, 2011
Blacks tend to have higher blood pressure than whites. Due to their darker skin, blacks also typically have lower vitamin D blood levels. Research indicates that high blood pressure is associated with low vitamin D and supports the need to study the effects of vitamin D supplementation on blood pressure in blacks.
J Gen Intern Med. 2011 Apr 21.


May 8, 2011
Sodium is an essential nutrient. The optimal amount to consume continues to be a hot and controversial topic. The results of a recent study conducted in Belgium go against current recommendations for low salt diets. The study found that those with the lowest salt intake had the greatest death rate from cardiovascular disease.
JAMA. 2011 May 4;305(17):1777-85.


May 11, 2011
Bone loss and osteoporosis have been associated with irritable bowel diseases (both Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis). Recent research indicates that low vitamin D status is common in people with irritable bowel diseases and improving vitamin D status may be especially important for people with this condition.
Indian J Med Res. 2009 Aug;130(2):133-7.


May 21, 2011
During pregnancy, a dangerous condition develops in some women called pre-eclampsia. Characterized by excessively high blood pressure and related problems, this condition can be very dangerous for both mother and fetus. Recent research found that daily consumption of a food bar fortified with the amino acid arginine significantly reduced the incidence of pre-eclampsia. Foods that are rich in arginine include meats, poultry, eggs, nuts, and seeds.
BMJ 2011; 342:d2901


May 26, 2011
Would you recognize scurvy if you saw it? This disease is caused by deficient vitamin C intake. Although scurvy is thought of as a disease of historical interest, its incidence seems to be increasing in children who consume very limited diets that lack fruits and vegetables. Common symptoms are bleeding gums, loose teeth, easy bruising, sore joints, and pinpoint blood spots on the skin.
Pediatrics. 2001 Sep;108(3):E55.


June 10, 2011
Almost ten times as many people are infected by the hepatitis C virus compared to the AIDS virus. Although no reliable treatment currently exists for hepatitis C, coffee consumption has been reported to slow the progression of the disease and to improve the response to current standard treatment.
Gastroenterology. 2011 Jun;140(7):1961-9.


June 16, 2011
Amid the high vs low carbohydrate diet debates, a recent mouse study reported that a low carb diet greatly reduced the risk of cancer development. What's best for humans may depend on many factors including the amount and type of physical activity a person has. High intensity and long duration exercise utilize large amounts of carbohydrate. For couch potatoes, a low carb diet may prove to be best. Stay tuned.
Cancer Res June 14, 2011 ; Published OnlineFirst June 14, 2011; doi:10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-10-3973


June 27, 2011
Most Americans do not consume recommended levels of magnesium. Although the health consequences of this are unclear, taking 170 mg magnesium supplementation twice a day has been found to improve lung function and quality of life in people with asthma.
Journal of Asthma, 47:83–92, 2010


July 1, 2011
For over two decades, public health advice has recommended reducing foods high in saturated fatty acids to reduce the risk of heart disease. Accumulating research does not support this focus on saturated fats but rather encourages a "well-rounded" diet that is not excessively high in overall fat, carbohydrate, or protein.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2010 Mar;91(3):535-46.


July 2, 2011
A recent study found that type 2 (adult onset) diabetes is essentially cured by 8 weeks of consuming only 600 calories per day. This, of course, causes rapid weight loss and many associated metabolic changes. The problem, however, is that many other studies indicate that about 95% of people who lose weight this rapidly will regain all their weight, and then some in a fairly short period of time.
Diabetologia [online ahead of print], doi: 10.1007/s00125-011-2204-7


July 3, 2011
One of the major components of most kidney stones is calcium. Interestingly, consuming a diet low in food sources of calcium has been found to increase the risk of developing kidney stones. In contrast, women taking calcium supplements were more likely to get kidney stones.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2011 Jul;94(1):5-6.


July 8, 2011
Sodium and chloride, the components of common salt, are essential nutrients for the human body. Like many other nutrients, it is possible to consume too much of them. However, how much is too much salt is not as clear as many would like to think according to a recent extensive review of the subject.
Am J Hypertens. 2011 Jul 6. [Epub ahead of print]


July 9, 2011
No big surprise . . . a large study reports that a "healthy lifestyle" is associated with a low risk of sudden cardiac death in women. But what is interesting is that the lifestyle factors associated with the greatest risk reduction were never smoking and exercising at least 6 hours a week. It also helped to eat a wholesome and varied diet and to not be too heavy or too thin.
The Journal of the American Medical Association, 2011; 306 (1): 62


July 10, 2011
Genetic predisposition is a major determinant of the risk of developing vision loss due to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). However, a study of identical twins found that siblings who smoked and/or had diets low in vitamin D, betaine, and methionine had a greater risk of developing AMD. Good sources of betaine include beets, spinach, and quinoa. Methionine is high in eggs and most high protein animal foods.
Ophthalmology. 2011 Jul;118(7):1386-94. Epub 2011 May 28


July 20, 2011
Depression can be caused by many things. One nutritional factor that may contribute to depression in some people is a low intake of the types of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish.
Psychosom Med. 2007 Apr;69(3):217-24. Epub 2007 Mar 30.


July 30, 2011
Asthma can develop in most anyone, but it appears to be more common in obese individuals and more common in women than men. Finding the reasons for these differences may lead to a better understanding of what causes asthma.
Int J Obes (Lond). 2006 Jul;30(7):1111-8.


August 2, 2011
Periodontal disease can be a complication of diabetes. New research indicates that dentists can spot the signs of undiagnosed diabetes or pre-diabetes and refer their patients for appropriate follow-up with a physician.
J Dent Res. 2011 Jul;90(7):855-60.


August 4, 2011
Researchers followed 2818 people who were mostly vegetarians over a 26 year time-span. During that time, 441 of them developed colon or rectal polyps (commonly become cancerous). The foods most closely associated with a lower risk of developing colorectal polyps in this group of people were cooked green vegetables, dried fruit, legumes, and brown rice.
Nutr Cancer. 2011 May;63(4):565-72.


August 7, 2011
When the concern for healthful eating becomes excessive, it can develop into a psychological condition called orthorexia nervosa. This normally positive concern for health, taken to the extreme, can adversely affect normal socialization and can even harm health.
Eat Weight Disord. 2004 Jun;9(2):151-7.


August 14, 2011
Soybeans and soy products are nutritious components of a varied diet. However, claims that soy isoflanoves (estrogen-like compounds in soy) benefit bone health and reduce menopause symptoms were not supported by a 2-year double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 45- to 60-year old women. Interestingly, the women taking 200 mg/day of isoflavones had more hot flashes than the placebo group.
Arch Intern Med. 2011 Aug 8;171(15):1363-9.


August 20, 2011
U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that added sugars not exceed 25 percent of total calorie needs. A recent study, however, questions this recommendation because it found that increasing dietary sugar to this level for two weeks resulted in a significant increase in blood components associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk.
J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2011 Aug 17. [Epub ahead of print]


August 24, 2011
Vitamin D, commonly known to benefit bone health, is proving to be involved in many body functions. Recently, researchers reported that adequate vitamin D helps to protect against colon cancer.
PLoS ONE, 2011; 6 (8): e23524


August 26, 2011
Increasing consumption of foods like oatmeal and beans along with a reduced saturated fat diet has been shown to lower total blood cholesterol and LDL cholesterol.
JAMA. 2011 Aug 24;306(8):831-9.


September 1, 2011
Vitamin C supplementation of 200 mg per day was found to improve lung function in asthmatic children by about 30 percent compared to children receiving a placebo pill. The likelihood of vitamin C supplementation to have this benefit likely depends on the initial vitamin C status of the child.
Clinical and Translational Allergy 2011, 1:9.


September 9, 2011
It is well known that excess body fat increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. A 25-year study that followed over 8000 people from their teen/young adult years into middle age found that the best predictor of developing diabetes was how long a person carried excess body weight.
Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. September 2011 [ePub Ahead of Print]


September 15, 2011
Feeding 6 to 8 golf ball size purple potatoes twice a day to a group of obese people with hypertension resulted in a significant drop in blood pressure. This may have been due to specific phytochemicals found in these potatoes or due to the high potassium content common to all types of potatoes.
242nd ACS National Meeting & Exposition, Fall 2011.


September 23, 2011
A meta-analysis of 61 studies indicated that alcohol consumption is associated with increased risk of colorectal cancer. One to two drinks a day was associated with a rather slight increase in risk, but more than four drinks a day was associated with significantly increased risk that continued to increase with higher alcohol consumption.
Ann Oncol. 2011 Sep;22(9):1958-72.


September 29, 2011
Recent results from the large Nurses' Health Study indicated that older women who consumed the most caffeine (mostly as coffee) had the lowest incidence of depression. The study design cannot prove that caffeine or caffeinated coffee reduces the risk of depression but their results suggest that caffeine may provide a protective effect - mechanism unknown.
Arch Intern Med. 2011;171(17):1571-1578.


October 2, 2011
Taking glucocorticoid drugs like prednisone, cortisone, etc. more than doubles the risk of severe vitamin D deficiency according to an analysis of National Health and Nutrition Examinations Survey (NHANES) data on over 22,000 children, adolescents, and adults.
J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2011 Sep 28. [Epub ahead of print]


October 3, 2011
Have you ever heard that if you feel like you are getting sick, just drink enough alcohol and it will kill off anything that might ail you? Don't believe it. According to some new research, alcohol abuse is likely to impair immune functions and increase susceptibility to viral infection.
BMC Immunology 2011, 12:55


October 5, 2011
Researchers have found that an adequate vitamin D status lowers your risk of type 2 diabetes and subclinical inflammation.
Diabetes Care. 2011 Oct;34(10):2320-2. Epub 2011 Aug 26.


October 10, 2011
The B-vitamin niacin has been used medicinally in humans to lower LDL and raise HDL cholesterol levels. New animal research has found that a compound synthesized from niacin in the body. called NMN, benefits blood sugar control in diabetic mice. Human research is needed to evaluate the possible use in people.
Cell Metabolism, 5 October 2011; 14(4) pp. 528 - 536.


October 12, 2011
It is known that certain genes can greatly increase the risk of heart disease. However, even in people who carry these high risk genes, a varied diet that includes plenty of vegetables and fruits can significantly lower the risk of heart disease.
PLoS Medicine, 2011; 9 (10): e1001106


October 19, 2011
Using an osteoarthritis-prone guinea pig strain as an animal model, researchers found that omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil could greatly reduce the signs and symptoms associated with osteoarthritis. Further research needs to see if these fatty acids primarily prevent osteoarthritis or if they also can be used to treat osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2011 Sep;19(9):1150-7.


October 26, 2011
As Breast Cancer Awareness Month nears its end, the key things to remember for the rest of the year are: exercise, maintain a normal body weight, consume a diet with a variety of foods, including vegetables and fruits, consume meats primarily in stews and soups with vegetables, limit alcohol to one drink a day.
Recent Results Cancer Res. 2011;186:13-42.


October 28, 2011
Arthritis can make exercise painful. However, recent research indicates that a little exercise pain can lead to a gain in joint health and reduce overall pain in the long run.
Arthritis Rheum. 2011 Sep 27. doi: 10.1002/art.33332. [Epub ahead of print]


November 2, 2011
Curcumin, the compound in turmeric that gives curry its yellow color, is showing promise for use in the treatment of inflammatory conditions such as tendinitis. However, people with low iron status should not use curcumin because it is a strong binder of iron and has the potential to further aggravate iron status.
Blood. 2009 Jan 8;113(2):462-9.


November 5, 2011
Obese men taking 150 mg of resveratrol per day for 30 days experienced positive changes such as decreased liver fat levels and a reduction in indicators of inflammation. This dose is significantly lower than that often used in animal studies, but is still about 100 times the amount of resveratrol in a glass of red wine.
Cell Metabolism, Volume 14, Issue 5, 612-622, 2 November 2011


November 6, 2011
Fatty liver disease, a condition in which fat builds up in the liver, can have serious health consequences. The condition appears to be most commonly caused by alcohol abuse, obesity, hormonal changes and/or diabetes. However, new research is linking fatty liver to both the microbial balance in the lower intestine and an individual's genetically determined ability to synthesize choline.
Gastroenterology. 2011 Mar;140(3):976-86.


November 9, 2011
Low carbohydrate "ketogenic" diets are known to help reduce seizures in people with epilepsy. Using a mouse model, researchers have learned how this dietary therapy affects brain chemistry. This may open new directions in the treatment of epilepsy.
J Clin Invest. 2011;121(7):2679–2683. doi:10.1172/JCI57813.


November 12, 2011
Many aspects of health are determined by the interplay between our genes and what we eat. For example, there is evidence that people with a high risk gene variant for heart disease have a significantly lower heart attack risk if their diet includes plenty of fruits and vegetables.
PLoS Medicine, 2011;9:e100110.


November 15, 2011
It is a common assumption that adequate dietary fiber helps to prevent colorectal cancer. Although this has not been supported by all studies on the topic, a new meta-analysis of multiple studies does support this assumption.
BMJ 2011;343:bmj.d6617; published online 10 November 2011.


November 17, 2011
If you like coffee and your body and brain function well under the influence of coffee, there are more reasons to keep drinking it than not. For example evidence is continuing to grow that coffee consumption helps to prevent type 2 diabetes and Parkinson's Disease.
Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2011 Apr;51(4):363-73.


November 18, 2011
Reducing dietary fat may help to prevent or slow prostate cancer. However, reducing fat too much can provide inadequate amounts of essential fatty acids and compromise the absorption of fat soluble nutrients and phytochemicals. A new study indicates that fish oil supplements, along with a low fat diet, benefited prostate cancer patients.
Cancer Prev Res (Phila). 2011 Oct 25. [Epub ahead of print]


November 20, 2011
High fat meals may put asthmatics at increased risk of an attack. A study with asthmatics found that a high calorie, high fat meal impaired lung function for four hours following the meal. This effect likely continued beyond four hours, but measurements were not made past four hours.
J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2011 May;127(5):1133-40.


November 21, 2011
As public health messages continue to recommend a low salt diet, the research support for the recommendation is questionable. Large studies that attempt to demonstrate the benefits of a low salt diet often fail to find benefit and even find evidence of risk to health.
J Gen Intern Med. 2008 Sep;23(9):1297-302.


November 23, 2011
Low vitamin D status has been linked to increased risk of conditions like hypertension, heart failure, diabetes, and renal failure. However, high vitamin D status (blood levels over 100 ng/dL) is associated with a significantly increased incidence of a heart condition called atrial fibrillation. Remember Balance!
Study Shows Too Much Vitamin D May Harm Your Heart Read more: http://technorati.com/women/article/study-shows-too-much-vitamin-d/#ixzz1eUnEQh9Y


November 25, 2011
Good news about coffee continues to brew. A recent study found that women who consume 4 or more cups of coffee a day have a reduced risk of endometrial cancer.
Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. Nov, 2011 [Online ahead of print]


November 28, 2011
Nocturia, a condition defined as needing to rise two or more times a night to urinate, can hamper the ability to get good quality sleep. Management or treatment of the problem requires medical evaluation because the condition may be a sign of underlying disease or simply a sign of aging.
Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol. 2011 Oct;23(5):376-85.


November 30, 2011
It is common knowledge that a low intake of dietary iodine disrupts thyroid function. Less well known is that iron is a required co-factor for iodine to be incorporated into the thyroid hormone molecule. Consequently, low iron status can impair thyroid function.
Thyroid. 2002 Oct;12(10):867-78.


December 10, 2011
Fructose has been considered to be a better sugar than glucose for diabetics because it has much less impact on blood glucose levels. However, excessive fructose may contribute to increased blood triglycerides and blood pressure.
Diabetes Care. 2009 Oct;32(10):1930-7.


December 12, 2011
A 3-month study, reported at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, found that a low-carbohydrate diet two days a week lowered risk factors associated with breast cancer. This is the type of study that raises more questions than answers, but it appears to deserve further research.
SABCS 2011;abstract P3-09-02.


December 22, 2011
Confirming the importance of diets with a variety of foods from all food groups, researchers found that blood values related to cardiovascular disease were better after five weeks of consuming a diet that was relatively high in protein, moderately low in carbohydrate, and contained about 5 ounces of lean beef per day.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2011 Dec 14. [Epub ahead of print]


December 23, 2011
Penn State University researchers have been able to cure leukemia in a mouse model by 7 days of injecting a compound that the body produces naturally from a fish oil fatty acid called EPA. Although there remains much to do to see if this will work with humans, it certainly supports observations that an adequate intake of fish oils is associated with a reduced risk of various cancers.
Blood October 3, 2011 blood-2010-11-317750 [Published online before print]


December 27, 2011
An adequate intake of fruits and vegetables has been linked to a reduced risk of developing colon or rectal cancers. A recent Australian study supported this relationship, but found that high consumption of fruit juices was associated with increased risk.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21963014


December 30, 2011
Even with a gluten-free diet, almost 40 percent of women with celiac disease report symptoms of depression. Iron deficiency is common in celiac disease and low iron status is known to cause depression. However, normalizing iron status in someone with celiac disease can be challenging.
Chronic Illn. 2011 Sep 20. [Epub ahead of print]


January 3, 2012
Pre-eclampsia, a condition with abnormally high blood pressure, can occur during pregnancy. Taking supplemental antioxidant vitamins plus the amino acid L-arginine significantly reduced the incidence of pre-eclampsia in women at high risk for the condition.
BMJ. 2011 May 19;342:d2901.


January 5, 2012
Insulin-dependent diabetes (Type 1) presents a variety of challenges for children and teens with the condition. Recent research indicates that poor quality sleep is more common in those with type 1 diabetes and is associated with lower academic performance and behavior problems.
SLEEP 2012;35(1):81-88.


January 7, 2012
During the last decade or two of life, calorie needs generally decline, but nutrient needs do not. A study of over 500 nursing home residents found that those with low zinc status (based on blood values) were more likely to develop pneumonia and took longer to recover than those with normal zinc status.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2007 Oct;86(4):1167-73.


January 12, 2012
Autistic children often have gastrointestinal problems. A new study found that a little known bacteria called Sutterella was present in the intestines of a high proportion of autistic children but was not found in any non-autistic children. If Sutterella has any relationship with the cause or symptoms of autism remains to be determined.
mBio 3(1):e00261-11


January 19, 2012
Inadequate vitamin K intake increases the risk of both osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Cooked dark green vegetables are the richest dietary sources of vitamin K. Multivitamin supplements often do not include vitamin K.
Menopause Int. 2011 Mar;17(1):19-23.


January 20, 2012
Maintaining normal hydration in the body is one of the most basic aspects of good nutrition. Chronically low water intake has even been linked to increased risk of diabetes.
Diabetes Care. 2011 Dec;34(12):2551-4.


January 31, 2012
There are many potential causes of high blood pressure. For about ten percent of the population with a common gene variant, increased intake of vitamin B-2 (riboflavin) may be the ticket to normal blood pressure.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2012 Jan 25. [Epub ahead of print]


February 1, 2012
New research indicates that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil during pregnancy may help to reduce certain types of allergies in infants.
BMJ 2012;344:e184


February 6, 2012
The effect of vitamin and mineral supplements on the risk of chronic disease is a controversial topic. A recent study using rats found that supplemental vitamins and minerals greatly reduced colon cancer. More research is needed to determine if these results will also apply to humans.
Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology, 2012, 90:(1) 45-54, 10.1139/y11-100


February 15, 2012
Soybean products are major components of the diets of various Asian populations that have a low risk of breast cancer. However, recent research does not support that consuming soy components (isoflavone supplements) will reduce breast cancer risk in adult women.
Cancer Prev Res (Phila). 2012 Feb;5(2):309-19.


February 26, 2012
Be sure to include citrus fruits among the fruits in your diet. Specific flavanone compounds present naturally in citrus fruits are associated with a reduced risk of stroke.
Stroke, February 23 2012.


March 1, 2012
There's new evidence in support of consuming cruciferous vegetables (cabbage family) to help prevent cancer. A key compound called sulforaphane works at the level of gene expression in a prostate cancer model in a way that protects against cancer development.
Clin Epigenetics. 2011; 3(1): 3.


March 15, 2012
The bacterium Helicobacter pylori lives in the lining of the stomach of some people and is considered to be a cause of stomach ulcers. A new study found that people who harbor the bacteria have compromised control of blood glucose.
J Infect Dis, 2012/03/12 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jis106


March 21, 2012
There is more good news for coffee drinkers. A European study of over 42,000 participants indicated that coffee consumption does not increase the risk of chronic disease, but it may be linked to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2012 Feb 15. [Epub ahead of print]


March 31, 2012
Children with autism generally have high blood levels of homocysteine which is linked with inflammation and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Although B-vitamin supplementation lowers homocysteine in autistic children, the supplement is unlikely to affect behavior.
Nutr Res. 2011 Apr;31(4):318-21.


April 9, 2012
The joint pain experienced by people with rheumatoid arthritis can lead to decreased physical activity. This, in turn, tends to result in loss of muscle mass and gain in body fat. For managing the arthritic condition and promoting good health, it is important to find tolerable ways to stay physically active.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2002 Oct;76(4):774-9.


April 17, 2012
Meeting essential nutrient needs is required for optimal health. Evidence is growing that low intake of some key B vitamins may increase the risk of cancer.
Br J Nutr. 2011 Sep;106(6):936-43. Epub 2011 May 16.


April 19, 2012
Although large trials with vitamin E supplementation have not demonstrated consistent benefits, there is clear evidence that people with a specific genotype for a protein called haptoglobin do experience a significant cardiovascular disease risk reduction when they take supplemental vitamin E.
Diabetes Care November 2004 vol. 27 no. 11 2767


April 23, 2012
Having a low glycemic index does not necessarily mean that a food is "healthy." However, when the overall diet is composed primarily of lower glycemic index foods, it can improve blood glucose management in people with type 2 diabetes.
JAMA. 2008 Dec 17;300(23):2742-53.


April 24, 2012
Studies with mice have shown that compounds called amorfrutins extracted from licorice root are very beneficial in treating type 2 diabetes. However, the concentration of these substances in licorice tea and candy is far too low to have a beneficial effect. Human clinical trials are needed to assess the possible use of preparations of amorfrutins in the treatment and prevention of diabetes.
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 2012; DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1116971109


April 27, 2012
Obese women have an increased risk of developing the painful autoimmune disorder rheumatoid arthritis. If researchers can determine why this painful joint disease is linked with these factors, it could help to uncover the causes of rheumatoid arthritis.
Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken). 2012 Apr 18. [Epub ahead of print]


May 3, 2012
A small study with 48 prostate cancer patients found that combining a low fat diet with 5 grams of fish oil per day reduced markers of cancer proliferation. Although this high fish oil dosage is possibly risky for the average person, additional research on its value for supportive treatment of cancer seems warranted.
Cancer Prev Res (Phila). 2011 Dec;4(12):2062-71. Epub 2011 Oct 25.


May 9, 2012
Poorly controlled diabetes can lead to impaired brain function over time. New research with a mouse model for type 2 diabetes found that diabetic mice who consumed caffeine in their drinking water did not experience the usual brain changes and memory loss. The potential use of caffeine or similar chemicals in the management of human diabetes remains to be studied.
PLoS ONE, 2012; 7 (4): e21899 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0021899


May 13, 2012
Based on a study with a mouse model, a natural flavonol compound called rutin (quercetin-3-rutinoside) may prove to be the best way to prevent blood clot formation. The compound inhibits a specific enzyme that plays an important role in both platelet aggregation and the formation of fibrin in blood clotting. Human trials are needed to confirm efficacy in humans and to determine proper dosage.
J Clin Invest. doi:10.1172/JCI61228.


May 16, 2012
Consumption of fish and the long chain omega-3 fatty acids that fish contain, has been linked to a decreased risk of many health problems. A recent systematic review with a meta-analysis found a significantly reduced risk rectal cancer and a modest trend toward reduced risk of colon cancer with increased fish consumption.
American Journal of Medicine published online 18 April 2012.


June 17, 2012
There is growing evidence that obesity increases the risk for women to develop rheumatoid arthritis. It is not clear how this type of autoimmune arthritis is linked with obesity, but research that helps to understand this link could lead to a better understanding of the causes of both conditions.
Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken). 2012 Apr 18. doi: 10.1002/acr.21660. [Epub ahead of print]


June 22, 2012
Researchers ar OSU's Linus Pauling Institute recently reported that spinach may have properties that aid in cancer prevention by affecting gene expression. This research has great potential to help us understand and at least partially offset the damaging effects of various carcinogens.
Mol Nutr Food Res. 2012 May 29. doi: 10.1002/mnfr.201200117. [Epub ahead of print]


June 28, 2012
Up to eight percent of children are affected by food allergies and the prevalence appears to be increasing. Since food allergies can be severe and potentially fatal, it is increasingly important that caregivers of children with food allergies are trained in label reading to prevent exposure to allergenic ingredients.
Pediatrics, 2012; DOI: 10.1542/peds.2011-1746 Published online June 25, 2012


June 29, 2012
Overweight and obesity are frequently associated with a state of chronic inflammation. Four months of supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) reduced measures of inflammation in overweight middle-age and older adults.
Brain Behav Immun. 2012 May 26. [Epub ahead of print]


June 30, 2012
New guidelines from The Endocrine Society recommend measurement of bone density in men over age 70 and men aged 50-69 who have risk factors such as low body weight, prior fracture as an adult, smoking, etc. The guidelines also encourage consuming adequate dietary calcium and vitamin D, participating in weight-bearing exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol.
J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2012 Jun;97(6):1802-22.


July 6, 2012
Drugs called proton pump inhibitors are widely used to treat heartburn and various stomach problems by inhibiting the production of stomach acid. Since the absorption of many nutrients is dependent on a normal production of stomach acid, long term use of these drugs can result in serious nutrient deficiencies.
Am J Gastroenterol. 2009 Mar;104 Suppl 2:S5-9.


July 10, 2012
Along with economic success, China is experiencing rapid growth in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases such as diabetes. In some respects, such as child diabetes, China already substantially exceeds the rates seen in the United States.
Obesity Reviews, Epub 28 JUN 2012.


July 12, 2012
Often it is assumed that iron deficiency is not a problem unless it progresses to the stage of causing anemia. Studies have been challenging this concept for several decades. A recent French study found that iron supplementation of nonanemic women (with low iron status) significantly reduced their fatigue.
CMAJ, Epub 9 July 2012.


July 14, 2012
Cranberry juice has been a commonly recommended folk remedy for the prevention and treatment of urinary tract infections. The scientific support for this is somewhat mixed, but overall, a recent review of the science does indicate benefit for some people.
Arch Intern Med.2012;172[13]:988-996.


July 22, 2012
Smoking is known to accelerate the decline in lung function commonly seen with aging. This decline is likely to be even more rapid when a smoker is deficient in vitamin D.
Am. J. Respir. Crit. Care Med. July 19, 2012. [Published ahead of print]


July 24, 2012
A study conducted in China, where liver cancer is more common than in the U.S., found that consuming adequate vitamin E from foods or supplements was associated with a reduced risk of developing liver cancer.
J Natl Cancer Inst. 2012 Jul 17. [Epub ahead of print]


July 25, 2012
Pancreatic cancer is difficult to treat and has a very low survival rate. A study of 23,500 people found that people whose diets provided the most vitamins C and E as well as the mineral selenium were less likely to develop pancreatic cancer.
Gut doi:10.1136/gutjnl-2011-301908 Published Online First 23 July 2012


August 3, 2012
A 12-month study of 160 postmenopausal women found that consuming two apples worth of dried apples a day significantly lowered blood cholesterol levels and other cardiovascular risk factors. This effect could be due to the apples and/or due to what the apples may have displaced in the women's diets.
J Acad Nutr Diet. 2012 Aug;112(8):1158-68.


August 4, 2012
People with celiac disease experience an immune reaction in their small intestines to the gluten protein in wheat and other grains. This reaction damages the intestinal lining. A new estimate of celiac disease in the U.S. indicates that about one out of every 141 people have the condition, but almost 80 percent were undiagnosed and unaware that they had the condition.
Am J Gastroenterology, 31 July 2012. [Epub ahead of print]


August 9, 2012
It has been known for some time that aerobic exercise can help to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Now, evidence is growing that weight training or similar strength exercise also significantly contributes to reduced risk. Participating in both types of exercise on a regular basis appears to confer the greatest benefit.
Arch Intern Med. August 06, 2012.[Epub ahead of print]


August 24, 2012
For those with diabetes and others who monitor their blood glucose, new technology is being developed to measure glucose levels in tears and saliva.
Advanced Functional Materials, 2012; DOI: 10.1002/adfm.201200551


August 26, 2012
Seasonal increases in particulate matter in the air can trigger asthmatic reactions in many people. Higher blood levels of vitamin C may help to reduce adverse responses to these changes in air quality.
Epidemiology. 2012 Jul;23(4):607-15.


September 2, 2012
A large Swedish study found that men who ate the most chocolate, typically a little over 2 ounces (63 grams) a week, had a lower risk of stroke than men who consumed little or no chocolate. This type of study does not establish a cause and effect relationship, but it does raise some interesting questions.
Neurology. 2012 Aug 29. [Epub ahead of print]


October 1, 2012
A study of over 600 people with gout reported that the risk of a gout attack was significantly lower when cherries or cherry extracts were consumed. However, the study design could not prove a cause and effect relationship.
Arthritis & Rheumatism, September 28, 2012 [Epub ahead of print]


October 8, 2012
Meeting vitamin K needs is known to benefit the health of bones and blood vessels. There is new evidence that good vitamin K nutrition also may reduce the risk of developing diabetes.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2012 Oct 3. [Epub ahead of print]


October 11, 2012
Using a human colon cell culture technique, a new study identified a component in milk that may be responsible for milk's association with reduced colon cancer.
J Dairy Sci. 2012 Oct;95(10):5552-60.


October 19, 2012
Nutrition may play a role in asthma prevention. A Japanese study recently found that diets lower in vitamins C and E were associated with an increased risk of asthma in children.
Public Health Nutr. 2012 Oct 1:1-6. [Epub ahead of print]


October 25, 2012
Using an innovative model of muscular dystrophy in zebrafish, researchers found that supplemental doses of niacin (vitamin B3) improved muscle structure and reduced symptoms. It remains to be seen if niacin may provide benefits to people with this condition.
PLoS Biology, 2012; 10 (10): e1001409.


October 27, 2012
Evidence exists to support that low to moderation consumption of alcohol may confer some health benefits. However, it can be easy for some people to slide from moderate into excessive drinking habits which shifts the balance into an increased risk of various health problems.
Neuroscience. 2012 Nov 8;224:202-9.


November 3, 2012
Air travel can be challenging for people using insulin pumps or continuous blood glucose monitoring devices. Full-body or X-ray scanners used for airport security screening may affect the function of some types of these devices.
Diabetes Tech & Ther. November 2012, 14(11): 984-985.


November 9, 2012
People with impaired walking due to Parkinson disease improved their walking ability with three months of exercise performed three times a week for 30 to 50 minutes each time. Both treadmill exercise and a combination of resistance and stretching exercise produced significant benefit. It appears that combining these types of exercise may be the best approach for Parkinson disease patients.
Arch Neurol. 2012;():1-8.


November 13, 2012
Green tea appears to benefit people with metabolic syndrome. A recent mouse study found that a component of green tea inhibited starch digestion and reduced the blood glucose spike that usually follows starch consumption.
Mol Nutr Food Res. 2012 Nov;56(11):1647-54.


November 24, 2012
Recent research with diabetic rats found that a high protein diet supplemented with two amino acids (arginine and proline) supported more blood vessel growth and less inflammation than than a standard control or high protein diet. This research may lead to more effective treatment for diabetic humans.
Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol. 2012 Nov;303(10):R1053-61.


November 28, 2012
Gastric bypass surgery can lead to remission of type 2 diabetes in some severely obese diabetic adults. However, within 5 years, diabetes returns in about one out of three people who experience remission.
Obes Surg. 2012 Nov 18. [Epub ahead of print]


December 13, 2012
An ongoing American Cancer Society study on over 900,000 people found that people drinking more than 4 cups of caffeinated coffee per day had a 49% lower risk of oral/pharyngeal cancer death relative to those with little or no coffee intake. Since association does not prove causation, this observation does not translate to a recommendation to start drinking coffee if you don't already drink coffee, but it is good news for coffee drinkers.
Am J Epidemiol. 2012 Dec 9. [Epub ahead of print]


December 19, 2012
Colorful compounds important for eye health, called lutein and zeaxanthin, are found in many green and yellow vegetables, yellow fruits, and egg yolks. These compounds are lower in the retinas of the eyes of older people with vision loss caused by age-related macular degeneration. The average American diet provides only 1-3 mg of lutein and zeaxanthin per day. Additional intake from dietary supplements appears to help protect eyes from this condition.
Ophthalmology. 2012 Nov;119(11):2290-7. doi: 10.1016/j.ophtha.2012.06.014. Epub 2012 Aug 1.


December 20, 2012
Remission of type 2 diabetes appears to be possible for some people, especially if they are still in the early stages of the disease. Overweight diabetics, in particular, may be able to reverse the condition with a healthful diet and exercise program that produces weight loss. When this works, however, the individual needs to consider themselves to be a "recovering diabetic" because diabetes can return quickly if the lifestyle is not maintained.
JAMA. 2012;308(23):2489-2496.


January 21, 2013
Clostridium difficile, a microorganism that can infect the intestinal tract, has an appropriate name. It is antibiotic resistant and very difficult to eradicate from the body. The best treatment appears to be not using antibiotics, but transferring fecal matter from a healthy person to the intestine of the infected person. This is more strong evidence for the importance of maintaining a healthy microbial ecology in the lower intestine.
NEJM. January 16, 2013, [Epub ahead of print]


January 25, 2013
Researchers are identifying variations in genes that are associated with increased risk of diseases like diabetes. However, even in those with the risky genes, researchers are finding that food components like the orange pigment in carrots and many other vegetables and fruits may still reduce the risk of the disease developing.
Hum Genet. 2013 Jan 20. [Epub ahead of print]


February 7, 2013
A new analysis of data from the Sydney Diet Heart Study (conducted between 1966 and 1973) found some interesting results. The group middle-aged men that consumed the most polyunsaturated vegetable oils (high in linoleic acid) had an increased risk of dying from cardiovascular disease and other causes. This was despite the fact that they had lower blood cholesterol levels.
BMJ 2013;346:e8707.


February 18, 2013
Docosahexaenoic acid, better known as DHA, is a long chain omega-3 fatty acid that is highly concentrated in the retina and essential for its function. Found primarily in fish oils, this fatty acid is an important nutrient for the prevention of age-related vision loss due to macular degeneration. In addition to fish oils, special algae oil supplements can provide this fatty acid.
American Academy of Ophthalmology. 2013 Manuscript no. 2012-1201. doi:10.1016/j.ophtha.2013.01.005 In Press


March 13, 2013
A compound called protectin D1 is formed in the body from the fish oil omega-3 fatty acid called DHA. Protectin D1 has been found to be very effective at inhibiting influenza virus replication in a human lung cell model. Although it remains to be demonstrated that getting plenty of fish oils in the diet can help to battle the flu, this discovery clearly supports consuming an adequate amount of fish and fish oils.
Cell, March 2013. [Epub ahead of print]


March 17, 2013
A rather high dose of the fish oil omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA (taken together in a combined dose of 4 grams per day) significantly reduced blood triglyceride concentrations and moderately increased LDL cholesterol. Although this was considered to be an overall positive change, the dose was very high and should be considered to be pharmacological and used only under medical supervision.
Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis. 2011 Sep 15. [Epub ahead of print]


March 22, 2013
A tomato was genetically engineered to produce a small protein (peptide) similar to a key protein in HDL cholesterol, also known as "good cholesterol." When these tomatoes were fed to mice prone to developing cardiovascular disease, the mice experienced several positive changes resulting in decreased atherosclerotic plaque in their arteries.
J Lipid Res. 2013 Feb 2. [Epub ahead of print]


March 27, 2013
Research continues to both expand and narrow in on the multiple functions of vitamin D in the body. It is turning out that vitamin D status affects the expression of many genes that have a wide variety of biologic functions with more than 160 pathways linked to cancer, autoimmune disorders and cardiovascular disease.
PLoS ONE 8(3): e58725.


April 2, 2013
A summary of the results from eight studies indicated that study participants who consumed diets higher in dietary fiber had a lower risk of having a stroke. However, it is not possible to determine if the dietary benefits were due to the fiber content or due to other substances that happen to be present in foods that are good sources of fiber.
Stroke. 2013 Mar 28. [Epub ahead of print]


April 4, 2013
A Japanese study of over 80,000 people that were studied over a period of 13 years found that both coffee and green tea consumption was associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.
Stroke. 2013 Mar 14. [Epub ahead of print]


April 6, 2013
Premenopausal adult women require more than double the amount of iron needed by men. A 10-year study of about 3,000 women enrolled in the U.S. Nurses' Health Study II found that women with the greatest total dietary iron intake had the lowest relative risk of having PMS (premenstrual syndrome).
Am J Epidemiol. 2013 Feb 26. [Epub ahead of print]


April 7, 2013
Fibromyalgia syndrome is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread pain, diffuse tenderness, and other symptoms. Its cause is unknown and it is difficult to treat. In a recent study of people with fibromyalgia, low and moderate drinkers of alcohol reported a lower severity of symptoms than non-drinkers or heavy drinkers.
Arthritis Res Ther. 2013 Mar 15;15(2):R42. [Epub ahead of print]


April 9, 2013
The odds of living a long and healthy life are greatly increased if risk factors like blood pressure, blood cholesterol, and blood sugar are maintained within healthy ranges along with not smoking. Doing this has been estimated to increase the lifespan by as much as 14 years.
JAMA. 2012 Nov 7;308(17):1795-801.


April 17, 2013
Looking for a natural way to lower blood pressure? A new study found that the high nitrate content of beetroot juice can lower blood pressure by about 10 mm Hg.
Hypertension. April 15, 2012. [Epub Ahead of Print]


April 21, 2013
Many health problems may have unknown links to low status of one or more essential nutrients. More consensus is needed on the most appropriate biomarkers to use for assessing the status of each essential nutrient. Then, we need to use these biomarkers more routinely in healthcare practice.
Ann NY Acad Sci 2013;1278:1–10.


April 27, 2013
Our individual innate taste preferences may be related to our health. A study of almost 200 people found that those with a high preference for sweets in combination with a high aversion to bitter flavors may be at an increased risk of developing metabolic syndrome.
J Food Sci. 2013 Feb;78(2):S336-42.


April 28, 2013
Alternative therapies can sometimes help to avoid drugs in the treatment of conditions like high blood pressure. A new scientific evaluation by the American Heart Association identified aerobic, resistance, and isometric exercises as the most effective alternative treatments for lowering blood pressure. Other therapies such as biofeedback, transcendental meditation, yoga, and relaxation techniques may provide some benefit, but are not as effective as exercise.
AHA scientific statement - Hypertension


April 30, 2013
The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) found that supplementation with vitamins C, E, ?-carotene and/or zinc substantially reduced the progression of macular degeneration. The next phase of this research called AREDS2, added lutein, zeaxanthin, and omega-3 fatty acids to see if this provides additional protection. The results are expected to be announced within a week. Stay tuned.
Ophthalmology. 2013 Apr 10. [Epub ahead of print]


May 7, 2013
Popular supplements based on the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS), have been on the market for about ten years. Used to slow the progression of macular degeneration, AREDS supplements contain vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, zinc and copper. The results of a new phase of the AREDS research indicate that substituting lutein and zeaxanthin for beta-carotene should be the next tweak to the formulation.
JAMA. May 5, 2013. [Epub ahead of print]


May 17, 2013
Although higher total fluid intake reduces the risk of kidney stone formation, the type of beverage you drink may matter. In a very large study of almost 200,000 people, those who consumed the most sugar sweetened sodas or punch type beverages were at increased risk of developing stones. Coffee, tea, orange juice, beer, and wine consumption were all associated with a decreased risk.
Clin J Am Soc Neph. May 2013. [Epub ahead of print]


May 19, 2013
Vitamin C supplements have been proposed as a complementary treatment for gout. However, a recent 8-week study found that 500 mg per day of vitamin C did not significantly lower blood uric acid levels, the major cause of gout. Other studies have reported small beneficial effects, but nothing comparable to benefits of the commonly used drug, allopurinol.
Arthritis Rheum. 2013 May. [Epub ahead of print]


May 22, 2013
A research study using human cells found that vitamin D reduces the production of a molecule produced by white blood cells and thought to be a key trigger in asthma. Further research is needed to determine whether this effect is seen in people with asthma who take vitamin D.
J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2013 May 15. pii: S0091-6749 [Epub ahead of print]


May 26, 2013
It has been widely accepted that good health is promoted by the combination of good nutrition and regular physical activity. Using a rat model, Brazilian researchers also showed that adding swim training to good nutrition helped to slow the progression of liver cancer.
Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2012 Dec;37(6):1101-9.


June 19, 2013
Restless leg syndrome (RLS) can be irritating and compromise the quality and quantity of sleep. New research indicates that men with RLS have an increased risk of dying earlier than normal. The potential cause remains to be determined.
Neurology. 2013 Jun 12. [Epub ahead of print]


June 21, 2013
In laboratory monkeys, a diet providing 24 percent of calories from fructose caused liver damage within six weeks. This damage was associated with fat accumulation in the liver as well as inflammation triggered by an increased flux of gut microorganisms into the systemic blood circulation.
Am J Clin Nutr. June 19. [Epub ahead of print]


June 29, 2013
Celiac disease and wheat allergy have relatively clear-cut diagnostic criteria. However, another condition now called nonceliac gluten sensitivity is typically diagnosed when the diagnostic criteria for celiac or wheat allergy are not met, but eliminating gluten from the diet relieves an individual's symptoms.
J Clin Gastroenterol. 2012 Sep;46(8):680-5.


July 9, 2013
Many chronic health problems are associated with chronic inflammation. Evidence continues to grow that the omega-3 fatty acid in fish oil known as DHA helps to reduce inflammation. New research is getting closer to understanding how this works.
FASEB J. 2013 Jul;27(7):2573-83.


July 14, 2013
A new study found that men consuming the greatest amounts of the fish oil types of omega-3 fatty acids were more likely to develop prostate cancer. However, due to its design, this study does not prove that omega-3 fatty acids cause prostate cancer. Since adequate intake of these fatty acids is associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular and other diseases, the results of this study require further confirmation.
J Natl Cancer Inst. July 10, 2013. [Epub ahead of print]


July 17, 2013
Various studies have linked dietary variables to the risk of developing cataract. A new meta-analysis of 13 studies found that higher blood levels of vitamin E, alpha-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin were all associated with significantly reduced risk of cataract.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2013 Jul 10. [Epub ahead of print]


July 18, 2013
Low vitamin D status is more common in obese individuals and those with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Ongoing research will likely sort out if the obese condition is contributing to an increased need for vitamin D and to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or if low vitamin D status somehow contributes to the development of these conditions.
Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis. 2013 Aug;23(8):792-8.


July 23, 2013
The omega-3 fatty acid called DHA has been associated with reduced inflammation. New animal research is identifying the biochemical mechanisms involved in this action of DHA. This is likely to lead to more safe and effective ways to treat chronic pain.
Ann Neurol. 2013 May 18. [Epub ahead of print]


August 8, 2013
Including soy foods in the diet has been associated with a reduced risk of colon cancer. New research using a rat model, indicates that the soy isoflavone genistein decreases the expression of three genes in intestinal cells that are know to be associated with abnormal cell growth and cancer development.
Carcinogenesis. 2013 Aug;34(8):1756-63.


August 9, 2013
In a study of over 600,000 children aged 6 to 19, the incidence of asthma was significantly greater in overweight and obese kids. The risk was greatest in overweight and obese young girls and in Asian/Pacific Islander youth. The cause is unknown, but other research has linked low iron status with both obesity and asthma. Clearly, further research is needed.
Am. J. Epidemiol. August 6, 2013. [Epub ahead of print]


August 15, 2013
Rheumatoid arthritis is a complex condition involving the immune system. One nutritional factor that is associated with significantly reduced risk of rheumatoid arthritis is weekly consumption of higher fat fish that provide the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids.
Ann Rheum Dis. August 2013. [Epub ahead of print]


August 18, 2013
Hepatitis C is a leading cause of liver disease and liver cancer. It is a silent killer that progresses gradually over decades without symptoms until liver damage is severe. Unlike other types of hepatitis, there is no vaccine. A new CDC study indicates that the Baby Boomer generation (born between 1945 and 1965) is at high risk for hepatitis C and can benefit from hepatitis C testing.
Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. Aug 16, 2013.


August 19, 2013
When we need to go to a hospital, there is a risk of acquiring a bacterial infection. A new study indicates that this risk is significantly increased when vitamin D status is low.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2013 Aug 14. [Epub ahead of print]


August 20, 2013
Caffeine consumption at doses comparable to two to four cups of coffee a day stimulates the liver to mobilize fat and to increase use of fat for energy needs. Overall, this reduces liver fat levels and is likely to benefit the treatment or prevention of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Hepatology. 2013 Aug 8. [Epub ahead of print]


August 24, 2013
It appears that type 2 diabetes is not just a disorder of the pancreas and insulin function. Intestinal function also plays a role. Interestingly, sweet taste receptors in the intestine detect glucose and trigger a response that accelerates glucose absorption in diabetics more that healthy non-diabetics.
Diabetes. 2013 Jun 12. [Epub ahead of print]


September 5, 2013
Fibromyalgia is a poorly understood condition that causes chronic pain. Treatment typically focuses on pain management and lifestyle changes. A new study found that fibromyalgia sufferers who consume light to moderate amounts of alcohol have significantly lower fibromyalgia symptoms and better QOL compared those who consume no alcohol.
Arthritis Res Ther. 2013 Mar 15;15(2):R42.


September 12, 2013
The amino acid arginine is known to improve blood glucose control. A new study with normal and diabetic mice has shown how arginine promotes insulin secretion. Common foods high in arginine include meat, fish, poultry, and a variety of protein powders.
Endocrinology. 2013 Aug 19. [Epub ahead of print]


September 15, 2013
Many cancer cells that develop in the body are essentially digested and do not progress to tumors. New understanding of the mechanisms involved in this process may lead to new ways to prevent and treat cancer.
Sci Transl Med. 2013;(5):202ra123.


September 22, 2013
Claims have been made that copper bracelets and magnetic wrist straps can relieve the symptoms of arthritis. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted on people with rheumatoid arthritis. It found that these devices provided no benefit.
PLoS ONE 8(9): e71529.


September 23, 2013
Women with diabetes prior to pregnancy are much more likely to have a child with a spinal cord deformity. New knowledge from animal studies indicates that the expression of specific genes plays a role in causing this problem. Consequently, prevention may be possible through targeting this mechanism with appropriate drugs or dietary changes.
Sci Signal. 2013 Aug 27;6(290):ra74.


September 24, 2013
There is some evidence that moderate exercise may enhance sleep. However, a new study suggests that is may work the other way. People who got more sleep were more likely to exercise for longer durations on the following day.
J Clin Sleep Med. 2013 Aug 15;9(8):819-24.


October 13, 2013
It has long been thought that excess abdominal fat puts one at greater risk of cardiovascular disease than fat in the hips and thighs. New research questions this assumption, finding that gluteal fat in the hips and thighs also affects factors that increase the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2013 Mar;98(3):E514-7.


October 15, 2013
High levels of high density lipoprotein (HDL), also known as the "good cholesterol," are associated with a reduced risk of heart disease. In contrast, high levels of HDL are linked to an increased risk of breast cancer and to enhanced cancer aggressiveness. This HDL link with breast cancer is providing insights into understanding breast cancer development and new treatment targets.
Breast Cancer Res. 2013 Sep 24;15(5):R87. [Epub ahead of print]


October 16, 2013
A study following over 4500 men diagnosed with nonmetastatic prostate cancer found that men who replaced dietary carbohydrate and animal fat with vegetable fats had a reduced risk of all-cause mortality. The men were followed for about 8 years on average. More research is needed to confirm the potential roles of carbohydrate and fat intake and the type of fat.
JAMA Intern Med. 2013 Jul 22;173(14):1318-26.


October 26, 2013
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is most common in those with obesity and diabetes. Adequate protein and choline intake can help reduce the fat accumulation in the liver. New research also indicates that caffeine helps to mobilize fat from the liver and benefit the treatment of NAFLD.
Hepatology. 2013 Aug 8. [Epub ahead of print]


October 30, 2013
Studies have found that the risk of coronary heart disease decreases with increasing alcohol consumption. However, when alcohol consumption exceeds moderate intake levels, the risk increases for other health problems such as strokes and various types of cancer.
Acta Neurol Scand. 2013 Mar;127(3):186-91.


November 21, 2013
Although replacing saturated animal fats with oils high in linolenic acid (an omega-6 fatty acid) can lower serum cholesterol levels, it increases the risk of death from coronary artery disease according to a new study. Lowering blood cholesterol does not always reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
CMAJ November 11, 2013. [Epub ahead of print]


November 22, 2013
A new study found that pregnant women were at significantly greater risk of having a premature birth when they had higher urinary levels of phthalates and their metabolites. Phthalates are a type of chemical commonly found in perfumes, hair spray, nail polish, deodorants, and body lotions. Based on this study, avoiding excessive exposure to these products during pregnancy would be prudent.
JAMA Pediatr. November 18, 2013. [Epub ahead of print]


December 3, 2013
A study conducted in Africa found that HIV positive individuals significantly reduced the risk of immune decline and progression to AIDS when they took a multivitamin supplement with selenium in the early stages of HIV infection.
JAMA. 2013;310(20):2154-2163.


December 10, 2013
People with autism spectrum disorders frequently suffer from intestinal problems as well as mental challenges. Using a mouse model for autism, researchers found that treatment with a specific probiotic microorganism helped to repair the "leaky" intestinal lining and reduced repetitive behaviors and signs of anxiety. How this may or may not apply to humans remains to be studied.
Cell. 155, 1–13, December 19, 2013.


December 12, 2013
Grape seed extract has been shown to have anti-cancer activity, especially for prostate cancer. Grape seed extract is a complex mixture of chemicals, including a variety of polyphenols. New research has identified a specific polyphenol called B2G2 that appears to be the most active cancer-preventive compound in grape seed extract.
Nutr Cancer. 2013 Nov 5. [Epub ahead of print]


December 15, 2013
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD or heartburn, is caused by acid-laden stomach contents passing from the stomach up into the lower part of the esophagus. The acid can seriously damage the esophagus when the condition becomes chronic. Common treatments that reduce stomach acid to protect the esophagus impair vitamin B-12 absorption. This makes vitamin B-12 supplementation an essential component of treatment.
JAMA. 2013;310(22):2435-2442.


December 20, 2013
It has been known for some time that low calcium diets are associated with an increased risk of colon cancer. A new study of the effect of calcium on colon cell growth in zebrafish identified mechanisms that may lead to treatments and prevention strategies for colon cancer in humans.
Cell Death Differ. 2013 Dec 13. [Epub ahead of print]


December 22, 2013
New blood pressure guidelines from an expert panel recommend not using blood pressure lowering medications with adults aged 60 or older unless their blood pressure exceeds 150/90. Current guidelines from other groups recommend treatment when blood pressure exceeds 140/90.
JAMA. December 18, 2013. [Epub ahead of print]


December 24, 2013
Although cancer is still a major cause of death, new data indicate that we are making progress. Cancer death rates declined steadily during the past two decades, dropping in men by almost three percent a year between 2005 and 2010.
Cancer. 16 Dec 2013. [Epub ahead of print]


January 6, 2014
A new review of studies on the effect of fructose consumption on blood triglyceride levels concludes that substituting fructose for other forms of carbohydrate in the diet does not affect triglyceride levels. Like other sugars and starch, adding fructose in excess of calorie needs does raise post-meal triglyceride blood levels - an apparent risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Atherosclerosis. 2014;232(1):125 -133.


January 12, 2014
Adequate fiber in the diet appears to benefit the immune function of the lungs. New research links the production of short chain fatty acids from dietary fiber by gut bacteria with healthy function of the lung immune system. This, in turn, may help to reduce the risk of asthma developing.
Nat Med. 2014 Jan 5. [Epub ahead of print]


January 13, 2014
Our genes may make us more or less susceptible to certain chronic diseases. However, it appears that many factors related to diet and lifestyle can increase or decrease the likelihood that high risk genes will be active or inactive. A relatively new field of study called nutritional epigenetics explores how diet and lifestyle factors affect the activity of risky genes.
Nutr Cancer. 2013;65(6):781-92.


January 21, 2014
The omega-3 fatty acids in fish often are called long-chain omega-3 fatty acids to differentiate them from the similar, but shorter omega-3 fatty acids found in some plant oils. A study conducted in Finland over a period of almost 20 years found that men with the highest blood levels of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids had a reduced risk of developing diabetes.
Diabetes Care. 2014 Jan;37(1):189-96.


January 28, 2014
A sedentary life and high calorie diet can lead to excess accumulation of fat in the liver, a condition often called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NALFD). This leads to inflammation, oxidative stress, and eventually liver damage. A new study conducted with a mouse model indicates that the long-chain omega-3 fatty acid called DHA (high in fish oils) helps to prevent this liver damage.
PLoS ONE 8(12): e83756.


January 29, 2014
Especially when diabetes is not well controlled, it can cause damage to the retina of the eye, resulting in serious vision loss. People with diabetes should have regularly scheduled eye exams because early treatment is important for preventing vision loss.
JAMA Ophthalmol. 2013 Dec 19. [Epub ahead of print]


February 4, 2014
A review of 20 controlled feeding trials that substituted fructose for glucose in the diet found that there was little difference between the sugars in how they affected common cardiovascular disease risk factors. The most important consideration is not about which sugar is best or worst, but about not over-consuming either of them.
Curr Opin Lipidol. 2014 Feb;25(1):8-19.


February 12, 2014
Research based on the large EPIC-Norfolk study on more than 25,000 men and women living in Norfolk, UK, found that the risk of developing diabetes was significantly reduced in those who regularly consumed fermented milk products, especially yogurt.
Diabetologia. Feb 2014. [Epub ahead of print]


February 13, 2014
As a stimulant, it seems logical that caffeine might affect heart function. A new study indicates that caffeine may have positive effects on heart function by decreasing the risk of developing a fairly common heart rhythm problem called atrial fibrillation. Potential beneficial effects of habitual caffeine intake on people who already have atrial fibrillation needs further research.
Can J Cardiology. January 2014. [Epub ahead of print]


March 9, 2014
A new meta-analysis of the effects of dietary fructose intake on fatty liver problems in humans indicates that fructose only is a problem when calorie intake is excessive. Excess calorie intake from other carbohydrate sources appears to cause the same problems as excess fructose.
Eur J Clin Nutr. 2014 Feb 26. [Epub ahead of print]


March 13, 2014
A meta-analysis of five studies concluded that the death rate from breast cancer was much lower in women who had good vitamin D status at the time of diagnosis when compared to those with low vitamin D status.
Anticancer Res. 2014 Mar;34(3):1163-6.


March 26, 2014
Fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and coffee were the main contributors to dietary antioxidants found to reduce the risk of developing cataracts in a large Swedish study of older women.
JAMA Ophthalmol. 2014 Mar 1;132(3):247-52.


April 2, 2014
The 2013 guidelines of the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association expand the indications for statin therapy to an extent that almost 50 percent of all U.S. adults qualify for treatment. It also is estimated that about 80 percent of these statin qualified adults are people without cardiovascular disease. Where do preventive nutrition and lifestyle approaches fit into this equation?
N Engl J Med. 2014 Mar 19. [Epub ahead of print]


April 3, 2014
A U.S. Food and Drug Administration expert panel unanimously recommended approval of a new at-home stool test that screens for colorectal cancer. The test, called Cologuard, has more than a 90 percent accuracy rate for correctly identifying the presence of colorectal cancer. This type of cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in both men and women 50 years of age and older.
FDA Executive Summary: March 27, 2014 (PDF - 559KB)


April 4, 2014
The increased prevalence of autism may be linked to compromised vitamin D status according to new research. The researchers found that the synthesis of a key neurotransmitter (serotonin) is affected by vitamin D. They also emphasize that an adequate supply of omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and iron likely contributes to the prevention and the potential treatment of autism spectrum disorders.
FASEB J. 2014 Feb 20. [Epub ahead of print]


April 7, 2014
Soon, you will be able to check your blood cholesterol (and other things) using a device that works with your smart phone.
Lab Chip. 2014 Feb 21;14(4):759-63.


April 28, 2014
Children diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome are 4 times more likely to have celiac disease than other children. Irritable bowel syndrome is characterized by uncomfortable or painful intestinal sensations that typically improve with defecation, and are associated with a change in stool frequency and stool form.
JAMA Pediatr. 2014 Apr 21. [Epub ahead of print]


May 8, 2014
We hear plenty about concerns for high blood pressure, but excessively low blood pressure (hypotension) can cause serious health problems as well. Symptoms can include dizziness or light-headedness, blurry vision, confusion, weakness, fatigue, and/or nausea. Older people, especially, are more at risk for experiencing hypotension after they have eaten a meal.
J Am Med Dir Assoc. 2014 Mar 12. pii: S1525-8610(14)00073-5.


May 9, 2014
Nonceliac gluten sensitivity (sensitivity to gluten in wheat and similar grains that does not meet diagnostic criteria of celiac disease), was found in one out of four people who thought they were gluten sensitive. In other words, a gluten-free diet relieved health problems in 25 percent of these people.
Nutr Clin Pract April 16, 2014. [Epub ahead of print]


May 10, 2014
Supplementation with the amino acid glutamine often is used to benefit intestinal health and immune function in seriously compromised patients. However, a new study found that those with organ failure, especially kidney failure, should not be given supplemental glutamine.
JPEN J Parenter Enteral Nutr. 2014 May 5. [Epub ahead of print]


May 12, 2014
Ear infections are a common problem in young children. Before prescribing antibiotics, doctors generally recommend watchful waiting to see if the infection will clear on its own. Parents often want to use alternative therapies during this waiting period. However, since infections often clear up on their own, it is easy to give credit to an alternative therapy when it actually had nothing to do with resolution of the problem.
Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol. 2013 Jun;77(6):926-31.


May 14, 2014
A new study conducted in the United Kingdom found that the diagnosis of celiac disease (autoimmune reaction to gluten) increased fourfold during the past 20 years. However, the diagnosis of a related skin condition (dermatitis herpetiformis) decreased by more than 50 percent. The researchers speculate that this may be due to earlier diagnosis of celiac disease preventing progression to dermatitis symptoms.
Am J Gastroenterol. 2014 May;109(5):757-68.


May 15, 2014
Coffee is a complex mixture of natural compounds, only one of which is caffeine. New research indicates that some of these compounds appear to benefit the health of the retina in the eye. Consequently, reasonable consumption of coffee may help to prevent conditions like macular degeneration that commonly occur with aging.
J Agric Food Chem. 2013 Dec 20. [Epub ahead of print]


May 25, 2014
A double-blind, placebo controlled study with 408 asthmatic patients with low vitamin D status, found that supplementation with vitamin D was no better than a placebo in the treatment of asthma. There also were no negative effects from vitamin D supplementation.
JAMA. 2014 May 18. [Epub ahead of print]


June 1, 2014
Vitamin D deficiency was found in 49 percent of 250 stroke patients compared to 32 percent of a control group. Although you cannot conclude from this that vitamin D deficiency causes strokes, it is one more of many links between vitamin D status and health.
J Stroke. 2014 Jan;16(1):44-50.


June 5, 2014
Reduced risk of heart attacks has been linked to habitual consumption of moderate amounts of alcoholic beverages (one or two drinks per day). Now, a large research meta-analysis also indicates that similar moderate alcohol consumption is linked with decreased risk of ischemic stroke (blockage of blood flow to a part of the brain).
Int J Cardiol. 2014 Apr 26. [Epub ahead of print]


June 12, 2014
A study that fed supplements of lycopene (a colorful compound in tomatoes) to cardiovascular disease patients found that lycopene significantly improved the ability of their blood vessels to expand. Blood vessel widening helps to reduce the risk of heart attach or stroke.
PLoS ONE 9(6): e99070.


June 14, 2014
An analysis of data compiled from seven large studies found that the risk of having a stroke was significantly lower in study participants with the highest protein diets. These studies followed people for 10 to 18 years. Both animal and vegetative protein were associated with reduced risk, but animal protein was the most protective.
Neurology. 2014 Jun 11. [Epub ahead of print]


June 15, 2014
Consuming a gluten-free diet is challenging for those with celiac disease. However, some protection against the damage from unintended gluten consumption may be available in the future. A 6-week study exposed people with celiac disease to daily gluten consumption. Those who consumed a specific gluten-digesting enzyme product together with the gluten-containing meals had no detectable intestinal damage.
Gastroenterology. 2014 Jun;146(7):1649-58.


June 19, 2014
Type 2 diabetics experienced significant improvement in blood glucose control when they consumed whole wheat bread made with added Canola oil compared to regular whole wheat bread. The Canola oil bread had over 50 percent of its calories from fat.
Diabetes Care. 2014 Jun 14. [Epub ahead of print]


June 20, 2014
A review of research on vitamin D and mortality pooled the data from 32 studies. Their analysis indicated that greater blood levels of vitamin D were associated with a significant decrease in mortality. The greatest benefit was achieved at blood levels that require a daily intake of about 1,000 IU of vitamin D3. The recommended upper limit for vitamin D is 4,000 IU per day.
Am J Public Health. 2014 Jun 12. [Epub ahead of print]


June 21, 2014
Using an obese and insulin resistant mouse model, researchers found that supplementation with retinoic acid (a compound formed in the body from vitamin A) reduced the accumulation of body fat (especially abdominal fat). Retinoic acid also helped to normalize blood sugar levels and improve cardiovascular health. Retinoic acid is toxic at even moderately high doses (like the retinol form of vitamin A), so we have much to learn before this research is applied to humans.
App Physiol Nutr Metab. 2014 June. [Conference Abstract]


June 23, 2014
Age-related macular degeneration is a major cause of blindness in older people. There is increasing evidence that a diet with plenty of the long chain omega-3 fatty acids helps to prevent this common retinal problem. These fatty acids (EPA and DHA) are found in fish and algae oils.
PNAS. 2014 June 16. [Epub ahead of print]


June 25, 2014
A study of women with heavy menstrual periods found that more than half of them were severely iron deficient. Iron supplementation improved health-related quality of life after a year of treatment with iron supplementation. However, it took five years to return iron stores to normal.
Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 2014 Jun 9. [Epub ahead of print]


July 3, 2014
When mice genetically predisposed to developing Alzheimer's disease were fed a high polyphenol extract from an unfermented form of cocoa, it prevented the usual degenerative brain changes. It is hoped that further research will identify how this works and what components of the cocoa benefit the brain.
J Alzheimers Dis. 2014;41(2):643-50.


July 7, 2014
Although less than one percent of the U.S. population has celiac disease that requires a gluten-free diet, there has been a major trend to use "gluten-free" on labeling of foods and meals in restaurants. On the surface, this would seem to make things easier for people with celiac disease. However, this is not the case when those processing or preparing these foods do not carefully exclude any potential source of gluten, including sources as seemingly minor as most soy sauces.
Gastroenterol Nurs. 2011 Nov-Dec;34(6):


July 8, 2014
The bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is considered to be responsible for three out of four stomach ulcers, two thirds of all gastric tumors and practically all duodenal tumors. When it causes these problems, the proper antibiotics can cure them. However, more recent research also indicates that the presence of H. pylori in the body may benefit the immune system - as long as it is kept under control.
Med J Aust 2014; 201 (1): 22.


July 11, 2014
When well-controlled type 2 diabetics were fed 50 grams of whey protein 30 minutes before consuming a high glycemic index breakfast, their blood glucose response to the breakfast was reduced by 28 percent compared to when they only consumed water prior to the meal. Well-timed protein consumption appears to be important for managing blood glucose levels in diabetics.
Diabetologia. 2014 Jul 10. [Epub ahead of print]


July 14, 2014
Oats and blood glucose: A meta-analysis of 15 randomized controlled trial studies concluded that daily consumption of oats significantly reduced fasting insulin levels and decreased the response to a glucose tolerance test. However, there was no significant effect on fasting glucose levels or the hemoglobin A1c measure commonly used to evaluate overall blood glucose control.
Br J Nutr. 2014 Aug;112(3):457-66.


July 15, 2014
Omega 3 fatty acids and osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is the type of arthritis associated primarily with joint injury and the type of wear that occurs with aging. A study of obese mice that were exposed to arthritis-inducing joint injury found that a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids significantly reduced arthritis severity compared to a diet higher in saturated fat and omega-6 fatty acids. The degree of obesity in the animals was not associated with severity of the arthritis.
Ann Rheum Dis. July 2014. [Epub ahead of print]


July 16, 2014
Alcoholic fatty lung: Excess alcohol consumption is known to cause fat to accumulate in the liver and slowly damage it. This is commonly called alcoholic fatty liver disease. Researchers studying rats found that heavy alcohol consumption also led to fat accumulation in the lungs. Since rats are known to differ somewhat from humans in how they metabolically handle fat, it remains to seen if this applies to humans as well.
Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol. 2014 Jun 18. [Epub ahead of print]


July 19, 2014
Vitamin D and Colorectal Cancer: A study of almost 1600 people with colorectal cancer found that those with the best vitamin D status had significantly longer survival times than those with lower vitamin D status. Studies are needed on the effect of vitamin D supplementation during colorectal cancer treatment on survival time.
J Clin Oncol. 2014 Jul 7. [Epub ahead of print]


July 21, 2014
Vitamin D Supplementation: A large review of multiple studies concluded that vitamin D supplementation, with or without calcium, does not significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, cancer, or bone fractures. These results seem to indicate that nutrient adequacy is more important than excess. The Institute of Medicine's Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for vitamin D is 4000 IU (100 micrograms). The Expert Group on Vitamins and Minerals of the Food Standards Agency, United Kingdom recommends that daily intake of vitamin D from supplements not exceed 1000 IU (25 micrograms).
Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol. 2014 Apr;2(4):307-20.


July 22, 2014
Vitamin C and Cancer Treatment: Studies on taking oral vitamin C supplements during cancer treatment have found no benefit. However, new research indicates that providing vitamin C intravenously can enhance the effects of chemotherapy and reduce the negative side effects of the treatment. More research is needed to confirm this.
Sci Transl Med. 2014 Feb 5;6(222):222ra18.


July 24, 2014
Iron and Cardiovascular Disease: Using a blood measure of iron status called transferrin saturation, researchers found that both low and high levels increased the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. The Goldilocks Principle repeatedly applies to most (if not all) aspects of nutrition.
QJM. 2014 Mar 20. [Epub ahead of print]


July 26, 2014
Beef and Blood Pressure: A study of 36 people (ages 30 to 65) with normal health tested the effect of four different diets on blood pressure. The diet with the most lean beef (about 5.5 ounces/day) in the daily fare resulted in the lowest blood pressure. Each diet period lasted for five weeks, so it is not know if this effect would still occur over a longer period of time.
J Hum Hypertens. 2014 Jun 19. [Epub ahead of print]


July 28, 2014
For those being treated for kidney cancer, low blood cholesterol is associated with worse survival. Currently, it is not known why this is the case.
BJU Int. 2014 Apr 4. [Epub ahead of print]


August 7, 2014
Many Americans have a low intake of vitamin E. Increasingly common metabolic conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease may be aggravated by low vitamin E status. Good food sources of vitamin E include sunflower seeds, almonds, and avocados as well as some vegetable oils such as safflower and peanut oils.
FASEB J. 2014;28(1)Sup:1041.7.


August 9, 2014
There is a substantial body of evidence that the fatty acids in fish oils help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. These fatty acids can be found in fatty marine fish like salmon and sardines as well as fish and algae oil supplements.
Nutr Rev. 2013 Oct;71(10):692-707.


August 16, 2014
The effects of diet and nutrition on health are typically expected to have an impact only after months and years of making a change. However, people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease had beneficial changes in lung function when they reported recently consuming fish, grapefruit, bananas or cheese. Exactly what this means is not clear, but it indicates the possibility that some foods may influence lung function within a fairly short span of time.
Am Thoracic Society Int Conf. 2014.


August 18, 2014
It has been known for some time that the lower intestinal cells use a small fatty acid produced by bacteria as a major energy source. Known as butyric acid, this fatty acid also has been shown to benefit the immune system and reduce inflammation in the colon. Supplements of butyric acid may benefit those with various types of bowel diseases.
Nature. 2013 Dec 19;504(7480):446-50.


August 26, 2014
A study conducted with rats found that adding fructose to a high fat diet increased fat accumulation in the liver. Although this may provide a small piece of information related to the causes of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, the study did not compare fructose to glucose and rats are known to handle sugars and fats differently than humans. So, be careful when trying to apply the results of this type of study to human health problems.
Exp Physiol. 2014 Jun 27. [Epub ahead of print]


August 31, 2014
A high intake of plant foods and especially tomato products as part of an overall diet with foods from all food groups may help protect against prostate cancer. Common cancer prevention recommendations don't typically focus on prostate cancer.
Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2014 Jul 13. [Epub ahead of print]


September 2, 2014
Research volunteers were fed either one or two pounds of cruciferous (cabbage family) vegetables daily for two weeks. The effect of this on systemic inflammation markers was measured. One out of four inflammation markers was reduced, but only in those consuming the two pound dose. Because the cabbage family contains a natural toxin to the thyroid, consuming this amount of cruciferous vegetables on an ongoing basis could damage thyroid function, especially without consuming adequate amounts of iodine (such as iodized salt).
J. Nutr. August 27, 2014. [Epub ahead of print]


September 4, 2014
Diabetes and Calcium: Many factors are involved in the development of type 2 diabetes. A new study adds elevated serum calcium levels as a risk factor. However, this is unlikely to be related to calcium intake. Since serum calcium levels are regulated tightly by hormonal mechanisms, elevated serum calcium likely represents maladjusted hormonal changes.
Diabetes Care. 2014 Aug 19. pii: DC_140898. [Epub ahead of print]


September 8, 2014
A large study of postmenopausal women found that those with the greatest amount of potassium in their diets had a lower risk of all types of stroke and all-cause mortality. Most people in the U.S. do not reach recommended levels of potassium intake. Some key foods that are high in potassium include bananas, papayas, oranges, prunes, raisins, potatoes, tomatoes, beans, lentils, salmon, milk, yogurt, and coffee.
Stroke. 2014 Sep 4. [Epub ahead of print]


September 12, 2014
Sugar and Cardiovascular Disease: High blood sugar levels, as seen in diabetes, are known to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. New research indicates that some compounds produced from sugar in the body can bind to and modify 'good' cholesterol (HDL), making it 'go bad.' It remains to be understood how significant this effect of sugar may be.
Nutr Diabetes. 2014 Sep 1;4:e134.


September 14, 2014
Omega-3 and Epilepsy: Adults with drug-resistant epilepsy experienced a 33 percent reduction in seizure frequency while taking three fish oil capsules per day providing a total intake of 1080 mg of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) plus docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). When the dose was twice this amount, seizure frequency increased to the same level as taking a placebo. Although, omega-3 fatty acids are clearly not a 'cure' for epilepsy, the proper level of intake may be an important component of overall treatment of epilepsy.
J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 2014 Sep 8. [Epub ahead of print]


September 15, 2014
Hypertension, BMI, and Salt: A French study of over 8500 people found that those with greater body weight for their height (Body Mass Index) were more likely to have high blood pressure. Salt intake, however, was not associated with blood pressure in this group of people.
Am J Hypertens. 2014 Sep 3. [Epub ahead of print]


September 17, 2014
Dietary Protein and Blood Pressure: A study that followed about 1300 middle-aged adults for over eleven years found that those with higher intakes of dietary protein from both animal and plant sources had significantly lower risk of developing high blood pressure. The researchers concluded that protein intake may play a role in the long-term prevention of high blood pressure.
Am J Hypertens. 2014 Sep 6. [Epub ahead of print]


September 26, 2014
Diabetes Trend: National U.S. data predict a continued increase in the incidence of diabetes in future years, with about 40 percent of the population developing the condition. If diabetes runs in your family, probably the best preventive action you can take is to maintain a daily physical activity program.
The Lancet Diab Endo. 13 August 2014. [Epub ahead of print]


September 28, 2014
There has been plenty of research supporting light to moderate alcohol consumption having potential health benefits. However, some caution is indicated by a new study that followed 2609 men for about 20 years and found that those who consumed alcohol most frequently (even moderately) had a significantly greater risk of dying from a stroke.
Acta Neurol Scand. 2014 Aug;130(2):118-24.


October 1, 2014
Hookworm Treatment for Celiac Disease: When hookworm parasites live in the small intestine, they protect themselves from immune system attack by secreting a protein that reduces inflammation. When 20 hookworms were introduced into the small intestines of eight volunteers with celiac disease, they became tolerant of gluten. The researchers hope to identify and isolate the hookworm protein to see if it is possible to use it like a drug and not need to use the live parasite - which, over time, can cause excessive blood loss and iron deficiency.
J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2014 Aug 29. [Epub ahead of print]


October 4, 2014
Vitamin D and Diabetes: Epidemiological studies have reported links between low vitamin D status and diabetes. However, other study designs used to identify cause and effect relationships do not indicate that low vitamin D status causes diabetes. Good vitamin D status is important for good health, but it remains to be seen if it helps to prevent diabetes.
Diabetologia. 2012 Aug;55(8):2173-82.


October 9, 2014
Depression and Omega-3 Fatty Acids: About 30 percent of people being treated with interferon for hepatitis C virus infection develop depression. Supplementation of these patients during treatment with the fish oil fatty acid EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) substantially reduced the incidence of depression.
Biol Psychiatry. 2014 Oct 1;76(7):559-66.


October 14, 2014
Vitamin C and COPD: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic lung disorder in which people commonly experience muscle weakness. Intravenous infusion of two grams of vitamin C helped to relieve muscle fatigue in COPD patients. It remains to be seen if vitamin C supplementation would be helpful for people with COPD.
Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol. 2013 Nov 15;305(10):R1163-70.


October 18, 2014
Fiber and Colon Health: For some time, the consumption of foods that provide dietary fiber has been thought to benefit lower intestinal health. This was thought to be due to the bacterial production of a fat component called butyrate that increases when fiber is consumed. New research confirms that butyrate does help to reduce intestinal inflammation and likely reduce cancer risk. The B-vitamin niacin benefits the colon in a similar fashion.
Immunity. 2014 Jan 16;40(1):128-39.


October 27, 2014
Fish Oil and Atrial Fibrillation: An adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in fish oils, is considered to be beneficial for overall cardiovascular function. However, high dose fish oil supplementation (4 grams/day) did not help to prevent episodes of rapid heart rate in those with atrial fibrillation.
Am Coll Cardiol. 2014 Oct 7;64(14):1441-8.


November 1, 2014
Omega-3 and Cardiovascular Risk: A person's omega-3 fatty acid status is assessed by measuring the percentage of total fatty acids in red blood cell membranes that are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) - also called the omega-3 index. An omega-3 index of about 8% is considered to be cardioprotective. The average American has an omega-3 index of 4.3% due to relatively low intake of fish on average.
Eur J Clin Nutr. 2014 Oct 22. [Epub ahead of print]


November 3, 2014
Iodine Deficiency: A U.K. study of young women (mostly students in nutrition and dietetics) found that about one out of four had mild iodine deficiency. The foods most highly correlated with good iodine status were milk and milk products, eggs, and fish.
Br J Nutr. 2014 Oct 2:1-9.


November 7, 2014
Ketogenic Diets and Epilepsy: A review of studies on using ketogenic diets (high fat and low carb) for the treatment of drug-resistant epilepsy in adults found that the diet cut the frequency of seizures at least in half for about one out of three people. Five to nine percent of those trying the diet experienced more than a 90% reduction in their seizures. It is not clear why this diet helps some, but not others.
Neurology. 2014 Oct 29. [Epub ahead of print]


November 9, 2014
Asthma and Vitamin D: A study of over 20,000 adults with asthma found that those with vitamin D deficiency were 25 percent more likely to have asthma attacks than those with normal status. Low vitamin D status may be linked with other nutrient problems such as iron deficiency, so it is difficult to know if vitamin D supplementation alone will be helpful.
Allergy. 2014 Aug 19. [Epub ahead of print]


November 15, 2014
Wheat and Celiac Disease: Gluten represents only part of the protein in wheat. A new study found that people with celiac disease are more likely than people without the disease to have immune system reactions to several of the non-gluten proteins in wheat. Damage to the intestinal cells seen in celiac disease may increase the risk of allergies to food proteins in general.
J Proteome Res. 2014 Nov 7. [Epub ahead of print]


November 16, 2014
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Smoking: A double-blind placebo-controlled study of 48 regular cigarette smokers found that supplementation with the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA decreased daily smoking and tobacco craving. These results indicate that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation may improve success in smoking cessation programs.
J Psychopharmacol. 2014 Jun 4;28(8):804-809.


November 17, 2014
Walnuts and Prostate Cancer: Walnuts and walnut oil were shown to reduce prostate tumor growth in a mouse model. However, a control diet with the same fatty acid proportions as walnut oil did not reduce tumor growth. For a human to consume a similar amount of walnuts as fed to the mice, it would require almost 500 calories a day of walnuts. Consequently, future research aims to identify the components of walnuts that have this effect.
J Med Food. 2014 Oct 29. [Epub ahead of print]


November 18, 2014
Long-chain Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Cancer: Fish oil omega-3 fatty acids often are linked to cardiovascular health. A new review of the scientific literature indicates that higher intake of fatty fish and/or fish oil supplements also is associated with reduced risk of various types of cancer - especially when omega-6 fatty acid intake is not high.
Nutr Cancer. 2014 Oct 30:1-6.


December 1, 2014
Dietary Saturated Fat vs Carbohydrate: Although accumulating research indicates that saturated fat in the diet does not increase cardiovascular disease risk as previously thought, higher blood levels of saturated fat do seem to increase risk. A recent controlled study found that increasing dietary saturated fat did not affect blood levels of saturated fat. However, increasing dietary carbohydrate raised the fatty acid blood levels associated with an increased risk of diabetes and heart disease.
PLoS One. 2014 Nov 21;9(11):e113605. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0113605. eCollection 2014.


December 5, 2014
Vitamin D and COPD: People with chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD) like chronic bronchitis and emphysema often have symptom flare-ups that can worsen and be life-threatening. A new study found that when vitamin D status was low in COPD patients, vitamin D supplements reduced flare-ups by over 40 percent in comparison to those taking a placebo.
The Lancet Resp Med. 2 December 2014 [ePub ahead of print]


December 10, 2014
In a study of over 13,000 adults, those with diabetes and poor glucose control at around age 50 had a much greater risk of mental decline by age 70. One of the best ways to reduce this risk is to be physically active and avoid excessive weight gain after age 50.
Ann Intern Med. 2014 Dec 2;161(11):785-93.


December 12, 2014
Sugar and Blood Pressure: A new review claims that excess added sugar intake contributes to the development of hypertension more than sodium. However, this potential association is complicated by the fact that high sugar intake is associated with excess body weight that, in turn, contributes to increased blood pressure. Stay tuned.
Open Heart 2014. 1;1:1-8.


December 19, 2014
Glycemic Index and Cardiovascular Risk: Low glycemic index diets have been thought to enhance blood glucose control and reduce cardiovascular disease risk. However, a 5-week controlled feeding study found that a low glycemic index diet was no different than a high glycemic index diet in how it affected insulin sensitivity, lipid levels, or systolic blood pressure. This well controlled study indicates that a lower glycemic index diet does not improve cardiovascular risk factors or insulin resistance.
JAMA. 2014 Dec 17;312(23):2531-2541.


December 20, 2014
Selenium and Colorectal Cancer: A European study found that adequate selenium status is associated with a reduced risk of developing colorectal cancer, especially in women. But, be careful with selenium supplements. Selenium has a narrow window between levels that are sub-optimal and those that would be considered toxic. The upper limit for selenium is 400 micrograms per day.
Int J Cancer. 2015 Mar 1;136(5):1149-61.


December 26, 2014
Saturated Fat: Increasing saturated fat in the diet had less effect on indicators of cardiovascular risk than increasing carbohydrate. As dietary carbohydrate increased, a fat component known as palmitoleic acid also increased. Palmitoleic acid is a biomarker consistently associated with adverse health outcomes.
PLoS One. 2014 Nov 21;9(11):e113605. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0113605. eCollection 2014.


December 28, 2014
Vitamin D and SAD: Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that usually begins in the fall and continues throughout the winter months. It has been thought that SAD is caused by reduced sunlight exposure and interference with the body's biological clock. There also is evidence that SAD may be due to a drop in vitamin D status caused by reduced exposure to sunlight during fall and winter months.
Med Hypotheses. 2014 Nov;83(5):517-25.


December 31, 2014
Vitamin D and Prostate Cancer Risk: A new analysis of multiple studies on vitamin D and prostate cancer found that the risk of prostate cancer increased with higher blood levels of 25-hydroxy vitamin D (the form of vitamin D used to measure status). It remains to be determined what level of vitamin D is optimal and how much is too much.
J Cancer Res Clin Oncol. 2014 Sep;140(9):1465-77.


January 9, 2015
Magnesium and Diabetes: A study of African American and Hispanic American women found that higher magnesium intake was associated with reduced risk of type 2 diabetes in those with specific gene variations. Foods rich in magnesium include nuts and seeds, beans, spinach and Swiss chard.
J. Nutr. March 1, 2015. [Epub ahead of print]


January 14, 2015
Blood Sugar and Cancer Risk: Moderately elevated blood sugar (fasting blood glucose between 100 and 125 mg/dl) is called prediabetes. This puts people at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. In addition, new information indicates that prediabetes increases the risk of developing cancer by about 15 percent.
Diabetologia. 2014 Nov;57(11):2261-9.


January 15, 2015
Vitamin B12 and Oxidative Stress: It seems logical to measure blood levels of vitamin B12 to evaluate a person's B12 status. However, a better measure, blood levels of methylmalonic acid (MMA), indicates how well a B12-dependent chemical reaction is working. Serum MMA increases in B12 deficiency. A new study found that when markers of oxidative stress are increased, serum B12 can be normal even though serum MMA indicates B12 deficiency.
Eur J Clin Nutr. 2015 Jan 7. [Epub ahead of print]


January 24, 2015
Coffee and Melanoma: A study that followed over 400,000 non-Hispanic white adults for about ten years found that increased coffee consumption was associated with a decreased incidence melanoma. This reduced risk of melanoma was observed only for regular coffee, not decaffeinated coffee.
J Natl Cancer Inst. 2015 Jan 20;107(2).


January 25, 2015
Nitrates and Blood Pressure: A study of feeding beetroot juice (naturally high in nitrate) for four weeks to people with hypertension found that it significantly reduced blood pressure. Beetroot juice without nitrate had no effect. Two weeks after study participants stopped consuming nitrate-containing beetroot juice, their blood pressure returned to hypertensive levels. Common vegetables that are naturally high in nitrate include spinach, beets, green beans, squash, and carrots.
Hypertension. 2015 Feb;65(2):320-7.


January 29, 2015
Sodium and Cardiovascular Disease: Estimated sodium intake of older adults (71 to 80 years) was not associated with the incidence of cardiovascular disease or heart failure during a 10-year period of study. Although the study used a relatively poor method of estimating sodium intake (food frequency questionnaires), the study does add to the body of literature currently polarizing the thinking about how much dietary sodium is best.
JAMA Intern Med. 2015 Jan 19. [Epub ahead of print]


February 5, 2015
Vitamin A and Malaria: Vitamin A deficiency is common in many areas where malaria is a problem. A new study of over 20,000 children under 5 years of age, living in four countries in sub-Saharan Africa, found that children taking vitamin A supplements were 54 percent less likely to develop malaria compared to children not getting the supplements.
Elife. 2015 Feb 3;4. [Epub ahead of print]


February 11, 2015
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: An institute of medicine report recommends that chronic fatigue syndrome get a new name - Systemic Exertion Intolerance Disease. The report also provides specific diagnostic guidelines that include substantial and persistent reduction in the ability to engage in normal levels of activities that is accompanied by fatigue, worsening of symptoms after exertion (including physical, cognitive, or emotional stress), unrefreshing sleep, and either cognitive impairment or the inability to remain upright with symptoms that improve when lying down.
IOM 2015. Beyond Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Redefining an Illness.


February 14, 2015
Mercury and Autoimmune Disease: Researchers analyzed data for 1,352 women aged 16-49 years for their levels of mercury in hair and blood samples. They found that increased levels of mercury were associated with increased indicators of autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis. However, the research did not consider factors that reduce mercury toxicity such as adequate selenium and iron status.
Environ Health Perspect. 2015 Feb 10. [Epub ahead of print]


February 20, 2015
Exercise and Diabetes: Exercise is commonly recommended as part of the treatment for type 2 diabetes. New research found that resistance exercise (strength training) conducted by type 2 diabetics either before or after eating a meal helped to reduce the blood glucose response to the meal. However, exercise after the meal also reduced plasma triglyceride levels more than exercise before the meal.
J Appl Physiol. 2014 Dec 24. [Epub ahead of print]


February 25, 2015
Breakfast and Type 2 Diabetes: When people with type 2 diabetes consumed a 700 calorie breakfast (with over 50 grams of protein), a 600 calorie lunch (40 grams of protein), and a 200 calorie dinner (22 grams of protein), they had much better blood glucose control throughout the day than when they had a 200 calorie breakfast, the same lunch, and a 700 calorie dinner. It appears that a good high protein breakfast works best for diabetics.
Diabetologia, Feb 2015. [Epub ahead of print]


March 1, 2015
GERD: If you experience GERD, commonly known as heartburn, eat moderate sized meals, stay upright after eating for at least two hours, and eliminate foods that don’t agree with you. Also, inform your doctor of heartburn symptoms if you are taking a new medication.
Nutr Clin Pract. 2008 Jun-Jul;23(3):293-8.


March 6, 2015
Lycopene and Kidney Cancer: Renal cell carcinoma is the eighth leading cancer among women. Typically, it is diagnosed at a more advanced stage, making treatment less effective. A study of over 96,000 older women found that those with the greatest intake of lycopene (mostly from tomatoes) had the lowest risk of renal cell carcinoma. This indicates that lycopene in the diet may contribute to prevention of this type of cancer.
Cancer. 2015 Feb 15;121(4):580-8.


March 8, 2015
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Diabetes: A study that followed 5,697 participants in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) for over ten years found that those with greater blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) had lower blood levels of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs). Elevated blood NEFAs is marker of metabolic dysfunction associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
Diabetes Care. 2015 Jan 8. [Epub ahead of print]


March 20, 2015
Vitamin D and Depression: Young women with lower vitamin D status were more likely to suffer from depression symptoms. This association raises an interesting question, but it does not prove that low vitamin D causes depression. One complicating factor is that the body's production of the form of vitamin D measured to assess vitamin D status (25-hydroxy vitamin D) is accomplished in the liver by an iron-dependent enzyme. Iron deficiency is a known cause of depression that also could reduce 25-hydroxy vitamin D production in the liver.
Psychiatry Research. March 06, 2015. [Epub ahead of print]


April 8, 2015
Fatty Liver and Intestinal Health: When excessive fat accumulates in the liver, it causes nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) that can progress to a more severe form called nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). New research indicates that this condition is linked with "leaky gut" or increased intestinal permeability that allows microorganisms to to more readily cross the gut wall into the body. Two key nutrients that help to prevent NAFLD and NASH are choline and protein.
Cell Mol Gast Hep. 2015;1(2):222-232.


April 11, 2015
A 28-year old theory proposes that iron accumulation in the body increases the risk for coronary heart disease. To date, however, this theory remains unproved, with several studies refuting the theory. It is likely that both too much and too little iron increase health risks.
Can J Cardiovasc Nurs. 2009;19(1):26-32.


April 15, 2015
Gum Disease and Heart Disease: A new study using a rabbit model found that treatment of gum disease prevented heart disease. These results support epidemiological studies that show links between periodontal disease and heart disease. It appears that the inflammation caused by the gum disease triggers inflammation in the arteries, making them more susceptible to plaque accumulation.
Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol. 2015 Mar 19. [Epub ahead of print]


April 22, 2015
Coffee and Breast Cancer: Components in coffee are proving to inhibit breast cancer development. In addition, consuming coffee during treatment of breast cancer appears to benefit treatment and reduce recurrence of the cancer. At least two cups a day seems to be the effective dose.
Clin Cancer Res. 2015 Apr 15;21(8):1877-87.


April 24, 2015
Menstrual Blood Loss and Iron: A study in Finland of 236 women with heavy menstrual periods found that 27% of the women were anemic and 60% were severely iron deficient based on low ferritin levels. One year after treatment with iron supplementation, the anemic women had a significant increase in energy, along with improved physical and social function, and a decrease in anxiety and depression. It took 5 years to get their iron stores to normal levels.
Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 2014 Jul;93(7):654-60.


April 26, 2015
As the weather warms up, the body’s fluid needs increase due to greater sweat loss. Even unnoticeable sweat loss can lead to a drop in blood volume that could increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke. Remember to drink more fluids in hot weather.
Nutr Rev. 2005 Jun;63(6 Pt 2):S2-5.


May 1, 2015
Protein at Breakfast: Another study indicates that consuming a breakfast with 25 to 30 grams of protein helps to moderate blood sugar levels throughout the morning and even helps to moderate the blood glucose response to lunch. This study was conducted with people with type 2 diabetes. Other studies have reported similar results and even have found that a high protein breakfast helps to reduce food cravings later in the day.
J Nutr. 2015 Mar;145(3):452-8.


May 4, 2015
Teen Asthma and Insulin Resistance: Asthma and compromised pulmonary function are associated with components of metabolic syndrome, including insulin resistance in teenagers. It is not known why lung function may be linked to impaired insulin function.
J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2015 Mar 3. [Epub ahead of print]


May 5, 2015
Fibromyalgia Triggers: There is little agreement about what causes the chronic pain condition known as fibromyalgia. However, a new study found that one out of four people with fibromyalgia had some physical trauma or infection associated with the start of symptoms. Many other variables, such as iron deficiency, have been linked to fibromyalgia, but there appears to be multiple factors causing the condition.
Am J Phys Med Rehabil. 2015 Apr 16. [Epub ahead of print]


May 6, 2015
Blood Pressure Guidelines: A 2013 Systematic Evidence Review From the Blood Pressure Expert Panel of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute concluded that adults over 60 should not be treated for hypertension unless blood pressure exceeds 150/90. However, this information remains to be incorporated into updated guidelines.
NHLBI. 2013. Managing Blood Pressure in Adults.


May 7, 2015
Body Weight and Diabetes: A study of over 10,000 older adults with type 2 diabetes (average age of 63 years) followed for over 10 years, found that those who were overweight or obese were more likely to be hospitalized for cardiovascular reasons. However, being overweight (BMI of 25 to 30) was associated with a lower mortality risk than being normal weight or obese.
Ann Intern Med. 2015 May 5. [Epub ahead of print]


May 11, 2015
Vitamin C and Cardiovascular Health: The relative risk of coronary heart disease and stroke decreases with increasing blood vitamin C levels. Vitamin C status (plasma vitamin C concentration) is determined by both vitamin C intake and the genetic capacity to maintain higher levels of vitamin C in the body.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2015 May 6. [Epub ahead of print]


May 13, 2015
Fitness and Blood Lipids: A study of over 11,000 men, followed for about 35 years, found that the usual age-related increase in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol was delayed in those who maintained the highest levels of cardiorespiratory fitness.
J Am Coll Card. 2015;65(19):2091–2100.


May 15, 2015
Iron Status and Diabetes Diagnosis: Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is considered a good blood test to evaluate chronically elevated blood glucose. However, a new review of 12 studies found that iron deficiency with or without anemia causes a false increase in HbA1c. Consequently, it is important to not rely only on HbA1c values without other measures of blood glucose handling in the body. Measures of iron status also appear to be important.
Diabetologia. 2015 May 13. [Epub ahead of print]


June 12, 2015
Sugar-sweetened Beverages and Fatty Liver: A study of over 2600 people found that regular sugar-sweetened beverage consumption was associated with greater risk of fatty liver disease, particularly in overweight and obese individuals. However, the study did not account for the effects of physical activity on carbohydrate utilization and did not appear to adjust properly for lower protein intake in those who consumed more sugary beverages. Diet soda intake was not associated with measures of fatty liver disease.
J Hepatol. 2015 May 29. [Epub ahead of print]


July 2, 2015
Citrus Fruit and Melanoma: An analysis of data from over 100,000 men and women found that those who consumed the most citrus fruit (especially grapefruit) had an increased risk of getting melanoma (skin cancer). This does not mean we should cut citrus fruits out of our diets. Since just about every food has something in it that is bad for us in excess amounts, this is mainly an argument for eating a wide variety of fruits and vegetables and each in moderation.
J Clin Oncol. 2015 Jun 29. [Epub ahead of print]


July 3, 2015
Potassium, Sodium and Blood Pressure: An analysis of multiple studies concluded that people with elevated blood pressure may benefit more from increasing potassium intake relative to sodium intake than from just decreasing sodium intake.
J Hypertens. 2015 Jun 2. [Epub ahead of print]


July 5, 2015
Maintaining a healthy immune system requires adequate dietary protein for the production of antibodies as well as many essential vitamins and trace minerals.
J Nutr. 2009 Jan;139(1):113-9.


July 9, 2015
Stroke Risk and Fish Oil: Arteries, including those providing blood to the brain, are known to stiffen with age. This is thought to be a major reason why stroke risk increases with age. Many aspects of good nutrition appear to contribute to reduced risk of stroke. A new study indicates that one key nutrient that helps to reduce arterial stiffness in older people is the type of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and algae oils.
Physiol Rep. 2015 Jun;3(6). pii: e12438.


July 20, 2015
Fat, Diabetes, and Fatty Liver Link: Using a diabetic mouse model, researchers found that when excess fat is consumed, some of the fat is converted to a compound called ceramide. When too much ceramide builds up, it causes insulin resistance and possibly diabetes or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. This research provides potentially new directions in human research for the prevention and treatment of these increasingly common conditions.
Cell Metabolism. 16 July 2015. [Epub ahead of print]


August 3, 2015
Breakfast and Type 2 Diabetes: New research indicates that when type 2 diabetics skip breakfast, their blood glucose rise after lunch and dinner is much greater than when they consume breakfast. Eating a good breakfast that includes good protein sources seems to keep things on a more even keel throughout the day, especially for people with type 2 diabetes.
Diabetes Care. 2015 Jul 28. [Epub ahead of print]


August 19, 2015
Vitamin D and Fall Prevention: Vitamin D helps to maintain muscle structure and function and some studies report that vitamin D supplementation may reduce the risk of falls - especially in elderly people. A small single-blind study conducted with older participants in the Meals on Wheels program found that supplementation improved vitamin D status and helped to reduce falling.
J Am Geriatr Soc. 2015 Aug 16. [Epub ahead of print]


August 20, 2015
Coffee and Colon Cancer Recovery: A study of 953 people recovering from stage III colon cancer found that those who consumed four or more cups of regular coffee per day had significantly less recurrence of their cancer. Tea and decaffeinated coffee consumption did not have any association with cancer recurrence.
J Clin Oncology, August 2015. [Epub ahead of print]


August 28, 2015
Protein and Cardiovascular Health: Several amino acids from protein foods such as glutamic acid, arginine, glycine, cysteine, and histidine are known to modulate blood levels of nitric oxide which relaxes blood vessels and lowers blood pressure. Consequently, it is not too surprising that a recent UK study of about 2000 female twins found that the intake of protein and specific amino acids was associated with reduced arterial stiffness and lower blood pressure. The researchers stated that this beneficial effect was similar in magnitude to established lifestyle risk factors such as physical activity and not smoking.
J Nutr. 2015 Jul 22. pii: jn214700. [Epub ahead of print]


September 1, 2015
Vitamin D and Macular Degeneration: A number of nutrients have been identified that help to protect the light-sensitive retina of the eye and prevent or at least slow age-related macular degeneration. Now a new study adds vitamin D to the list of nutrients likely to benefit retinal health.
JAMA Ophthalmol. 2015 Aug 27. [Epub ahead of print]


September 19, 2015
Kidney Stones and Nutrition: Large research studies have clearly shown that the risk for kidney stone formation decreases when calcium consumption is increased and plenty of fluid is consumed.
Ther Umsch. 2000 Mar;57(3):138-45.


September 23, 2015
Fatty Acids and Crohn's Disease: It's not ready for human application, but interesting genetic studies with zebrafish indicate that certain fatty acids commonly found in foods are associated with improving Crohn's disease symptoms, while other fatty acids seem to worsen the condition. Eventually, this may lead to more focused study of the effects of dietary fat sources on Crohn's disease.
Genome Biol. 2015 Sep 15;16:190. doi: 10.1186/s13059-015-0722-1.


September 25, 2015
Trans Fatty Acids and Cardiovascular Disease: German researchers measured trans fatty acid levels in the red blood cells of people being evaluated for cardiovascular disease in a German hospital. They found that those with the lowest trans fatty acid levels had higher rates of cardiovascular mortality and sudden cardiac death. The German diet is low in trans fatty acids from food processing, so most of their trans fatty acids likely were from natural sources like milk products and beef. Since Americans typically have higher dietary and red blood cell levels of trans fatty acid, the general results of this German study may not apply directly to the U.S.
Eur Heart J. 2015 Sep 22. [Epub ahead of print]


September 29, 2015
Statins and Aging: Statin drugs are used to treat people with cardiovascular disease. However, the use of these drugs for the prevention of cardiovascular disease in people without the condition may be unwise. New research indicates that statin drugs cause cellular changes that are characteristic of the aging process. This may be what causes the often observed statin side-effects of neurological problems, muscle pain, and increased risk of developing diabetes.
Am J Physiol Cell Physiol. 2015 Jul. [Epub ahead of print]


October 5, 2015
Calcium Needs: A new meta-analysis type of study questions current recommendations for high calcium intake to prevent bone fractures. Their results indicate that higher calcium intake does not prevent bone fractures. Too much calcium has potential negative effects on health. It is important to recognize that adequate intake of calcium along with several other nutrients is important for bone health - protein, vitamin D, vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, etc. How much calcium is adequate? More research is needed.
BMJ. 2015 Sep 29;351:h4580.


October 8, 2015
Headaches and Skipping Meals: More than 60 factors are known to trigger primary head­aches. Low blood glucose from skipping meals is one trigger we can control.
National Headache Foundation


October 13, 2015
Healthcare Cost in the United States: A new analysis of data from the year 2013 showed that the United States spends at least 50 percent more, as a percentage of the overall economy, than any other high income country, including France, Australia, Canada, Germany and Great Britain. It will be interesting to see how the Affordable Care Act Affects this spending in the future.
The Commonwealth Fund Report, 2015.


October 21, 2015
Calcium, Vitamin D, and Cancer: Some studies indicated the possibility that consuming more dietary calcium and/or vitamin D might reduce the risk of developing colon and rectal cancers. However, a newly published study followed over 2000 people for three to five years and found that daily supplementation with 1200 mg of calcium and or 1000 IU of vitamin D had no effect on the development of colorectal polyps (adenomas).
N Engl J Med. 2015 Oct 15;373(16):1519-30.


October 26, 2015
Folate and Celiac Disease: Even after consuming a gluten-free diet to recover from celiac disease, people with celiac disease had lower blood folate levels than normal healthy controls without celiac disease. Even after recovery, people with celiac disease may have greater nutrient needs than average.
Nutrition Journal 2015, 14:110.


October 29, 2015
Meat and Cancer: The International Agency for Research on Cancer (World Health Organization) released summary information about a report on red meats and processed meats and possible associations with cancer. The full report is yet to be released. The summary states that diets high in red meat and processed meats pose an increased risk of developing cancer - especially colorectal cancer. They also stated that, "Eating meat has known health benefits." The bottom line on all this - don't overdo anything, keep a wide variety of foods in your diet, and don't stress out about it.
IARC/WHO. 2015. Q & A on carcinogenicity of red and processed meat.


October 30, 2015
Vitamin D and Rheumatoid Arthritis: Nutrient deficiencies commonly play a role in chronic disease conditions. A new study found that people with rheumatoid arthritis, who also were deficient in vitamin D, experienced significant improvement in measures of their disease activity after three months of vitamin D supplementation.
Int J Rheum Dis. 2015 Oct 20.


November 8, 2015
Hydration and Fever: Although increased fluid and sodium needs are typically thought to be associated with hot weather and exercise, remember the flu can cause an increased internal temperature that requires increased fluid as well.
J Occup Med Toxicol. 2008 Jan 29;3:4.


November 12, 2015
Gut Microbes and Glucose Control: A study testing a barley-based bread in human volunteers found that only people with greater levels of a specific type of colon bacteria (Prevotella copri) experienced improved blood glucose control compared to when they consumed regular wheat-based bread. Transplanting some of the human fecal bacteria into germ-free mice improved blood glucose control in the mice.
Cell Metab. 2015 Nov 6. pii: S1550-4131(15)00517-3.


November 16, 2015
Diabetes, Diet, and Kidneys: Decline in kidney function often develops in people with type 2 diabetes. A preliminary study that followed over 600 type 2 diabetics for about 10 to 15 years found that those who consumed more potassium (based on urine measures) had a lower risk of renal decline than those consuming low levels of potassium. Indicators of sodium intake, however, showed no correlation with measures of kidney function change over time.
Clin J Am Soc Nephrol. 2015 Nov 12. [Epub ahead of print]


November 17, 2015
Hypothyroid and Iron: Evidence continues to indicate that many cases of hypothyroidism are related to low iron status. An enzyme involved in thyroid hormone synthesis is known to be iron dependent, so the relationship makes biochemical sense.
Clinical Endocrinology News. Nov 12, 2015.


November 19, 2015
Vitamin D and HIV Treatment: Measurement of vitamin D status in HIV infected adults found that good vitamin D status enhanced recovery of immune function after treatment. Vitamin D deficiency impaired recovery.
Clin Nutr. Nov 18, 2015. [Epub ahead of print]


December 3, 2015
Diet and Epilepsy: A study using a rat model indicated that low carbohydrate ketogenic diets used to treat epilepsy have their beneficial effect on the brain through a specific component of fat rather than the generation of ketone bodies. Consuming fat that is high in a 10-carbon fatty acid called decanoic acid may provide the same benefit to epileptics without the need to restrict carbohydrate.
Brain. 2015 Nov 25. Epub ahead of print]


December 17, 2015
Celiac Disease Risk: A new meta-analysis type of study found that women with sisters or mothers that have celiac disease are at significantly greater risk of developing the condition too.
Am J Gastroenterol. 2015 Nov;110(11):1539-48.


December 18, 2015
Diabetes and Pancreatic Fat: A study using specialized MRI scanning techniques in people losing weight by bariatric surgery found that those with type 2 diabetes had elevated levels of fat in their pancreas. After eight weeks of weight loss, pancreatic fat levels normalized and the type 2 diabetes cleared up. Pancreatic fat levels may be an important factor to evaluate and target in people with type 2 diabetes.
Diabetes Care, December 1, 2015. [Epub ahead of print]


December 24, 2015
Pancreatic Cancer and Magnesium: Many of us consume less than recommended levels of magnesium. A new study found that low magnesium intake is associated with an increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Although a cause and effect relationship cannot be assumed from this study, it still is another good reason to include green vegetables, nuts, beans, and whole grains in the daily diet.
Br J Cancer. 2015;113(11):1615.


December 27, 2015
Cranberry and bladder health: Substances in cranberries are known to benefit the health of the urinary tract. For some, this holiday treat could be beneficial if consumed year-round.
J Funct Foods. 2015 Aug;17:235-242.


January 11, 2016
Body Fat and Insulin Function: A study of 116 nondiabetic adults ranging in age from 19 to 78 years were tested for insulin sensitivity, a measure of how well insulin facilitates sugar uptake from the blood. Age did not influence insulin sensitivity, but greater levels of fat around the internal organs (visceral fat) and more fat in the liver were both strongly associated with poor insulin sensitivity. Meeting protein needs and avoiding excess calories, especially from carbohydrate and fat, can help to avoid or reduce high levels of visceral and liver fat.
J Clin Endocrinology & Metab. 2015 December 28. [Epub ahead of print]


January 12, 2016
DASH Diet + Fat: The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) dietary pattern is high in fruits, vegetables and low fat dairy foods. The diet significantly lowers blood pressure as well as low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). A new study found that a higher fat version of the DASH diet lowered blood pressure to the same extent as the standard DASH diet, but also reduced triglycerides and did not significantly raise LDL-C.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2015 Dec [Epub ahead of print]


February 4, 2016
Fish Oil and Blood Pressure: About a third of American adults have hypertension. New research indicates that increased fish consumption or supplementation with a daily fish oil supplement significantly lowers blood pressure in many adults with hypertension.
J Nutr. 2016 Jan 27. [Epub ahead of print]


February 17, 2016
Dietary Cholesterol, Eggs, and Coronary Artery Disease: A study in Finland that followed over 800 men for about 21 years, found that egg and cholesterol intakes were not associated with increased coronary artery disease. This also was the case for those identified as having a genetic predisposition to heart disease. This supports previous studies showing little or no effect of dietary cholesterol on blood cholesterol levels.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2016 Feb 10. [Epub ahead of print]


March 4, 2016
Eye Health and Carotenoids: In addition to the well-known beta-carotene found in many fruits and vegetables, similar carotenoid molecules lutein and zeaxanthin are found in foods like green vegetables and yellow corn. They are especially important for retinal health and prevention of age-related macular degeneration.
Prog Retin Eye Res. 2016 Jan;50:34-66.


March 7, 2016
Diabetes Guidelines: A synopsis of the 2016 American Diabetes Association Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes emphasize individualized care to manage the disease, prevent or delay complications, and improve outcomes. Among other things, the guidelines stress patient self-management, physical activity, and weight management.
Ann Intern Med. 1 March 2016. [Epub ahead of print]


March 11, 2016
Autism and Nutrient Intake: A study on the food and supplement intake of children with autism spectrum disorders found that many of the 2- to 3-year old children exceeded the Tolerable Upper Intake Levels (ULs) for three essential nutrients from their food intake alone (34% exceeded the UL for preformed vitamin A, 44% for manganese, and 40% for zinc). Consumption of supplements added to this already excessive level of nutrient intake, likely increasing the risk of one or more of these nutrients having neuro-toxic effects.
J Acad Nutr Diet. 2015 Aug;115(8):1237-48.


March 13, 2016
Coffee and Parkinson's disease. Research shows that moderate coffee consumption appears to reduce the risk of developing Parkinson's disease. Although these types of studies can't claim cause and effect, they do reduce concerns about potential harmful effects.
Mov Disord. 2007 Nov 15;22(15):2242-8.


March 24, 2016
Fat Loss and Diabetes: In people with type-2 diabetes, significant fat loss from reduced calorie intake was associated with a loss of fat also from the pancreas. As pancreatic fat dropped, insulin production returned to normal if pancreatic function was not already overly impaired.
Diabetes Care, March 2016 DOI: 10.2337/dc15-1942


April 9, 2016
Gallstones and Weight Loss: Two of the major risk factors for gallstone disease are prolonged fasting and rapid weight loss. Restricted food intake, especially when low in fat, slows the release of bile from the gall bladder and gallstones are more likely to form.
Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol. 2006;20(6):1063-73.


April 14, 2016
Butter or Vegetable Oils? Substituting high linoleic acid vegetable oils like corn and safflower for butter in the diet has long been thought to reduce blood cholesterol and reduced death, especially from coronary heart disease. However, analysis of previously unpublished data from 50 years ago showed that replacement of saturated fat in the diet with high linoleic acid vegetable oils lowers serum cholesterol but does not translates to a lower risk of death from coronary heart disease or all causes.
BMJ, 2016;353:i1246.


May 9, 2016
Abdominal Fat: Obesity often is associated with a generalized increase in inflammation in the body. New research has identified a regulatory molecule produced mainly by visceral fat (internal abdominal fat) that triggers the increased inflammation associated with metabolic disease, insulin resistance, reduced fat mobilization from fat tissues, and an increased risk of death. The subcutaneous fat tissue (just below the skin) is not associated with these risks.
Nat Commun. 2016 Apr 25;7:11378.


May 17, 2016
HDL Cholesterol Interpretation: A new analysis of the relationships between HDL cholesterol levels in the blood and the risk of cardiovascular disease found that higher levels of this "good" cholesterol do not reduce disease risk when LDL cholesterol and triglycerides also are high.
Circ Cardiovasc Qual Outcomes. 2016 May 10. [Epub ahead of print]


May 20, 2016
Heartburn Drugs and the Heart: Chronic use of proton-pump inhibitor drugs (like Prilosec and Nexium) for heartburn accelerates the aging of blood vessels. This could contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease, vascular dementia, and renal failure. Short-term use does not seem to be a problem.
Circ Res. 2016 May 10. [Epub ahead of print]


May 21, 2016
Nausea and Ginger: Studies indicate that the short-term use of ginger can help to relieve pregnancy-related nausea.
Am Fam Physician. 2007 Jun 1;75(11):1689-91.


May 25, 2016
Sodium and Health: A combined analysis of four studies with more than 130,000 participants (about half with hypertension and half without) raises questions about current recommendations for low sodium intake. They found that those with low sodium intake (below 3000 mg/day) had an increased risk of death, myocardial infarction, stroke, and heart failure compared to those with moderate sodium intake. This occurred both in those with hypertension and those with normal blood pressure. However, high sodium intake (above 6000 mg/day) increased death and disease risk only in those who had hypertension.
Lancet. 20 May 2016. [Epub ahead of print]


May 31, 2016
Fatty Liver Disease: The most common cause of fatty liver has been excessive alcohol consumption. However, more recently, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become more common. This may be linked to many factors such as a low intake of protein and/or choline. Also, new research found that those with a genetic limitation in the metabolism of alcohol (low acetaldehyde dehydrogenase activity) are at increased risk for NAFLD even without alcohol consumption.
Nutr Diabetes. 2016 May 23;6:e210. doi: 10.1038/nutd.2016.17.


June 1, 2016
Homocysteine Reduction: High blood levels of homocysteine are associated with increased risk developing cardiovascular disease. In addition to an adequate intake of specific B-vitamins, consumption of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) helps to reduce homocysteine.
Nutr Res. 2016 Jun;36(6):499-508.


June 8, 2016
Abdominal Obesity and Kidney Disease: Young adults (age 20 to 40) with abdominal obesity are at significantly increased risk of declining kidney function and the development of chronic kidney disease. However, it is estimated that less than five percent of those with chronic kidney disease in this age group are diagnosed before their kidney failure is severe.
PLoS One. 2016 May 25;11(5):e0153588.


June 15, 2016
Foods to Reduce Inflammation: Recent research indicates that polyphenol compounds naturally high in five plant foods (onions, turmeric, red grapes, green tea, and açai berries) show potential to reduce the release of pro-inflammatory mediators in people at risk of chronic inflammation.
Br J Nutr. 2016 May;115(10):1699-710.


June 16, 2016
Coffee and Cancer: The World Health Organization (WHO) updated its evaluation of potential associations between coffee, very hot beverages, and cancer risk. They previously had stated that coffee drinking was "possibly carcinogenic to humans," but this new report concludes that coffee drinking "is not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans." However, consumption of very hot beverages was found to be associated with increased risk of esophageal cancer.
Q&A on Monographs Volume 116: Coffee, maté, and very hot beverages.


June 18, 2016
Produce Reduces cancer Risk: Diets rich in fruits and vegetables are recommended for reducing cancer risk. Incorporate local fruits and vegetables into your daily diet to help yourself and your local farmer.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2003 Sep;78(3 Suppl):559S-569S.


July 4, 2016
Lifelong Benefits of Exercise Starts Early: Frequent, vigorous exercise during the child and adolescent years is becoming recognized as the most effective way to prevent chronic health conditions that develop during the adult years.
Exerc Immunol Rev. 2005;11:108-44.


July 6, 2016
Protein Reduces Hypertension: A study of more than 1500 females showed that those who consumed a higher level of protein foods with certain amino acids had both lower blood pressure and arterial stiffness. These amino acids were found both in meat and plant-based protein sources.
J Nutr. 2015 Sep;145(9):2130-8. doi: 10.3945/jn.115.214700. Epub 2015 Jul 22.


July 11, 2016
Gut Transit Time and the Microbiome: The colonic microbiome (microorganism quantity and diversity) is being widely studied as a contributor to many potential health outcomes. New research indicates that despite the richness of microbial content, when intestinal contents move too slowly their may be adverse health effects due to certain bacterial byproducts. Consuming a variety of foods with dietary fiber and consuming plenty of fluids helps to speed up transit.
Nature Microb. 27 June 2016. [Epub ahead of print]


July 15, 2016
Magnesium Supplementation and Blood Pressure: Most Americans do not meet recommended magnesium intake. A summary of multiple studies found that supplementation with about 300 mg of magnesium per day lowers blood pressure by about 2 mm Hg on average. Although this was statistically significant, it is likely not biologically significant. However, consuming adequate magnesium from foods and/or supplements is important for overall health.
Hypertension. 2016 Aug;68(2):324-33.


July 16, 2016
Psoriasis, the Immune System and Nutrition: Since the immune system is clearly involved in psoriasis, maintaining a healthy immune system helps to deal with the disease. Many nutrients are involved in supporting immune function, so meeting all nutrient needs may be step one in treating psoriasis.
Br J Dermatol. 2005 Oct;153(4):706-14.


July 25, 2016
Physical Activity and Cancer Risk: A combined analysis of the data from 12 large studies (total of 1.44 million participants) found that those reporting the most leisure-time physical activity had a lower overall risk for cancer. One exception was in increased risk of skin cancer (malignant melanoma) in the most active participants - likely due to greater sun exposure without adequate sun protection.
JAMA Intern Med. 2016 Jun 1;176(6):816-25.


July 29, 2016
Selenium and Liver Cancer Risk: A European study found that those with the lowest selenium status had the greatest risk of developing liver cancer. Good food sources of selenium include fish, meats, poultry, eggs, Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, wheat germ, tofu, and some fortified cereals.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2016 Jun 29. [Epub ahead of print]


August 3, 2016
Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Heart Attack Recovery: A placebo-controlled study found that a fish oil-based supplement with high dose omega-3 fatty acids (465 mg EPA and 375 mg DHA) significantly benefited key aspects of recovery from a heart attack. These levels of omega-3 fatty acids are difficult to obtain from food. To do so would require daily consumption of a fish like salmon (which can vary in fatty acid content depending on source and species).
Circulation. 2016;134:378-391.


August 10, 2016
Kidney Stones Treatment: Researchers report that a compound called hydroxycitric acid or hydroxycitrate (HCA) shows promise as a treatment to dissolve kidney stones. HCA is very high in a fruit called Garcinia cambogia (Malabar tamarind) which has been an ingredient in controversial supplements marketed for weight loss. Human trials are needed to confirm HCA's possible use for kidney stones.
Nature. 2016 Aug 8:1-5.


August 20, 2016
Physical Activity and Diabetes: The end of summer is near so, it is important to stay physically active. This helps to maintain or achieve a healthy weight and decreases risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes.
Diabetes Res Clin Pract. 2005 Jun;68 Suppl1:S73-81.


September 11, 2016
Iron /Iodine and Thyroid Function: Keeping a wide variety of foods in the diet is extremely important, even for the prevention of hypothyroidism. Excessive consumption of cruciferous (cabbage family) vegetables, soy products, and millet can interfere with thyroid hormone production.
Endocr Rev. 2009 Jun;30(4):376-408. Epub 2009 May 21.


September 12, 2016
Glycemic Index Variability: Glycemic index is a measure used to estimate how much specific foods raise blood glucose. Most often tables of glycemic index present a single value that is an average of the measurements made on several people. The main limitation of the glycemic index is that it varies greatly both in individuals measured at different times with the same food and between different people tested with the same food.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2016 Sep 7. [Epub ahead of print]


September 13, 2016
Glycemic Index and Liver Fat: Although the glycemic index values for specific foods can vary greatly from one person to another, studies do indicate that diets with an overall lower glycemic index can provide health benefits. A recent study found that men consuming a high glycemic index diet had greater accumulation of fat in their liver than when they consumed a low glycemic index diet.
Diabetes Obes Metab. 2016 Sep 4. [Epub ahead of print]


September 18, 2016
Low calcium and Kidney Stones: The most common kidney stones are calcium oxalate. Interestingly, low calcium diets increase the risk of forming these stones, apparently because more oxalate is absorbed from the diet when dietary calcium is low.
Arch Ital Urol Androl. 2015 Jul 7;87(2):105-20. doi: 10.4081/aiua.2015.2.105.


October 28, 2016
Diabetes Activity Guidelines: New guidelines from the American Diabetes Association recommend that people with type 2 diabetes do three or more minutes of light activity every 30 minutes during prolonged periods of sitting. This can include activities as simple as arm stretches, moving around in a chair, walking in place, leg lifts, etc. In addition, diabetics are advised to participate in regular exercise of some sort.
Diabetes Care 2016 Nov; 39(11): 2065-2079.


November 4, 2016
Diet and Headache: Although the triggers for headaches can vary from one person to another, research has identified some dietary components that make a difference for some headache sufferers. A common trigger for headaches (including migraines) in some people includes regular coffee drinkers not consuming coffee or drinking too much coffee or other caffeine sources. Also, consuming too much MSG, especially in liquid foods like soups appears to affect some susceptible people. Other dietary triggers are less common, but a good elimination diet can help headache sufferers identify offending foods.
The Journal of Head and Face Pain, 2016;56(9):1543.


November 11, 2016
Fat and Diabetes: High levels of body fat are associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. However, not all people with high body fat develop diabetes and some people with low body fat develop the condition. New research may be uncovering at least part of the puzzle. Some fats in the body are converted into compounds called ceramides. People with higher levels of ceramides in their fat tissue are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. Finding a way to prevent the accumulation of ceramides may help to prevent type 2 diabetes.
Cell Metab. 2016 Oct 21. [Epub ahead of print]


November 30, 2016
Prediabetes: A large meta-analysis of 53 prospective cohort studies that totaled over 1.6 million participants found that the diagnosis of prediabetes was associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease and all cause mortality. However, the researchers emphasized that "prediabetes is not a disease but rather a risk factor for future diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and the findings in our study do not mean that pharmacological treatment is warranted in everyone with prediabetes." Rather, the diagnosis may be a good indicator of the need for lifestyle changes in diet and/or exercise.
BMJ. 2016;355:i5953.


December 24, 2016
High-fat Meals and Heart Attack Risk: High-fat meals may increase the risk of a heart attack for several hours because arteries narrow and blood flow slows. Enjoy the higher fat holiday foods, but in moderation.
Am J Cardiol. 1997 Feb 1;79(3):350-354


December 28, 2016
Vitamin D and Metabolic Syndrome: Based on a study exploring mechanisms in mice, vitamin D deficiency may be a major contributor to the development of metabolic syndrome and fatty liver. Boosting vitamin D status, in mice fed a high fat diet, promoted the health of the intestines, reduced general inflammation in the body, normalized insulin function, and prevented the development of a fatty liver. Human studies are needed to see if the same mechanisms are active in people.
Front Physiol. 2016 Nov 15;7:498. eCollection 2016.


January 3, 2017
Iron Deficiency and Hearing Loss: Iron deficiency is known to adversely affect nerve structure and function. A new study of over 300,000 adults found that those with iron deficiency anemia had more than double the risk of impaired hearing.
JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2016 Dec 29. [Epub ahead of print]


January 10, 2017
Vitamin C Chemotherapy: There has been some evidence that boosting blood levels of vitamin C by infusing the vitamin intravenously may help to kill cells in some types of cancerous tumors. New research indicates that much of the vitamin C is converted to hydrogen peroxide which can damage cell components in specific types of cancer cells more than it does in normal cells. This kills cancer cells without killing the normal cells.
Redox Biol. 2016 Dec;10:274-284.


January 16, 2017
Niacin and Parkinson's Disease: Using fruit flies that carry the same genetic defect as people with certain forms of early-onset Parkinson's disease, researchers found that supplementing the diet with a form of niacin prevented the usual progression of neural degeneration seen in this animal model. Randomized controlled trials in humans are needed to see if niacin supplementation could benefit people with Parkinson's disease.
Biol Open. 2016 Dec 23. [Epub ahead of print]


January 21, 2017
Hydration and Diabetes: Maintaining normal hydration in the body is one of the most basic aspects of good nutrition. Chronically low water intake has even been linked to increased risk of diabetes.
Diabetes Care. 2011 Dec;34(12):2551-4.


February 2, 2017
Skipping Meals: A summary of the research on meal frequency, skipping meals, and intermittent fasting concluded that, ". . . irregular eating patterns appear less favorable for achieving a healthy cardiometabolic profile. Intentional eating with mindful attention to the timing and frequency of eating occasions could lead to healthier lifestyle and cardiometabolic risk factor management."
Circulation. January 30, 2017. [Epub ahead of print]


February 4, 2017
Whey protein and hypertension: Whey protein, a byproduct of cheese production, is commonly used as a protein source in high protein beverages and other products. When young adults with high blood pressure added a daily drink containing 28 grams of whey protein to their usual diet, it normalized their blood pressure. The whey protein drink had no effect on those with normal blood pressure.
Int Dairy J. 2010;11:753-760.


February 17, 2017
Vitamin D and Respiratory Infections: A systematic review of 25 randomized controlled trials, with a total of over 10,000 participants, concluded that vitamin D supplementation could protect against acute respiratory tract infection. Participants who were very vitamin D deficient experienced the most benefit.
BMJ 2017;356:i6583.


February 23, 2017
Resveratrol Inhalation: Studies of oral supplementation with the phytochemical resveratrol have shown some anti-aging benefits. A new study used inhaled resveratrol in mice with a genetic defect that causes rapid lung aging. They found that resveratrol inhaled once per month for three months significantly slowed the rate of lung function decline. Although not ready for human use, it appears that resveratrol inhalation is worth testing in people.
Thorax. 2017 Jan 9. [Epub ahead of print]


February 25, 2017
B12 Deficiency or Alzheimer's Disease: Alzheimer's disease is diagnosed primarily by observation of progressive impairment of memory and other cognitive functions. Research often links high homocysteine and low vitamin B-12 status with the development of Alzheimer's disease. Since, however, B-12 deficiency causes direct damage to nerve structure and can impair memory, B-12 deficiency (which is easily treated) could be misdiagnosed as Alzheimer's diseas
Neurology. 2010 Oct 19;75(16):1408-14.


February 27, 2017
Potassium and Blood Pressure: Most of us don't consume enough potassium. More and more research indicates that increasing dietary potassium may be more important for healthful blood pressure than reducing sodium. High potassium foods are mainly vegetables, beans, and many fruits. Potatoes are a good source and even potato chips have more than twice as much potassium as sodium.
Am J Phys Endo Metab. Feb 2017. [Epub ahead of print]


March 11, 2017
Iron deficiency and H. Pylori: About half of us are infected with the bacteria Helicobacter pylori that lives in the stomach lining. Most of us have no obvious symptoms, however, research indicates that children, infected with H. pylori have lower iron levels than children previously treated for this bacteria. Since adequate iron is essential for normal brain development and function, it may become more routine to test children for the presence of H. pylori.
Am J Epidemiol. 2006 Jan 15;163(2):127-34. Epub 2005 Nov 23.


March 14, 2017
Carbohydrate Tolerance: A research study showed that men with a prediabetes glucose tolerance level handled a high carbohydrate meal better early in the day than they did at the end of the day. Results were similar in men with normal glucose tolerance, but these results were not statistically significant.
Sci Rep. 2017 Mar 8;7:44170.


March 20, 2017
Gut Microbes: New research questions the applicability of the results of studies transplanting lower intestinal contents from one animal into another animal that was raised in a bacteria-free environment. They found that animals fed normally in a normal environment responded to gut microbiota transplants very differently than bacteria-free mice.
Molecular Systems Biology (2017) 13, 921.


March 21, 2017
Hypertension Diagnosis: It is estimated that about 20 percent of people being treated for high blood pressure have been misdiagnosed and do not need medication. The Canadian Hypertension Education Program recommends that traditional manual measurement of blood pressure (the usual approach for decades) not be used for diagnosis of hypertension. Rather, they recommend using newer automated blood pressure measurement techniques.
Can Fam Physician. 2017 Mar;63(3):e193-e199.


March 22, 2017
Dairy Foods and Health: A study with 897 Irish adults found that those who consumed more total dairy foods had significantly lower body mass index, percent body fat, waist circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio. The study also reported that blood lipid profiles were less favorable when dairy foods were "eaten as part of a low-fat high-carbohydrate dietary pattern." Due to the cross-sectional design, the researchers stressed that more research is needed to clarify the associations they observed.
Nutr Diabetes. 2017 Feb 20;7(2):e243.


March 26, 2017
Milk fat and diabetes risk: A study that followed almost 4000 people for 20 years found that those who consumed the greatest amounts of a trans fatty acid (trans-palmitoleate) naturally present in milk fat had better insulin sensitivity and were less likely to develop diabetes. Based on these results, skim milk may not be the best option.
Ann Intern Med. 2010 Dec 21;153(12):790-9.


March 28, 2017
Sugars and Fats: When the diet is high in carbohydrate and calories, the liver converts more sugar to fatty acids. A two-year intervention study that encouraged six to eight year old children to improve their overall diet and increase exercise, found that the children had a decrease in sugar to fat conversion.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2016 Oct;104(4):964-972.


April 6, 2017
Celiac Disease and Anorexia Nervosa: A study that included about 18,000 women with celiac disease found that anorexia nervosa often developed before or after the celiac disease diagnosis. Anorexia causes nutrient deficiency conditions (such as iron deficiency, especially in women) which can damage the intestinal structural integrity and increase the risk of developing allergies and celiac disease. Celiac disease can make eating a negative experience that could feasibly promote disordered eating and an eating disorder like anorexia nervosa.
Pediatrics. April 2017. [Epub ahead of print]


April 7, 2017
Potassium and Blood Pressure: For many decades the emphasis has been placed on cutting down on dietary sodium to reduce blood pressure. This recommendation has met with some degree of scientific controversy. However, as emphasized in a recent review article, there is substantial agreement that adequate potassium intake is an important contributor to normal blood pressure. Foods high in potassium (in decreasing order of potassium per common serving) include potatoes, prunes, carrots, most leafy greens, beans, tomato juice and sauces, yogurt, sweet potatoes, orange juice, and bananas. Fun fact: regular potato chips have more than twice as much potassium as sodium.
Am J Physiology Endo Metab. 4 April 2017 Vol. 312 no. 4, E348-E356.


April 11, 2017
Viral Cause of Celiac: A new study makes the case that a major trigger for celiac disease may be the effects of the body's immune response to a normally innocuous virus (reovirus). There is still much to learn about this and how immune health may play a role.
Science. 2017;356(6333):44-50.


April 22, 2017
Diabetes and Renal Health: High blood glucose levels in diabetes are known to contribute to progressive kidney damage (diabetic nephropathy). A recent study of diabetic mice found that a low carbohydrate "ketogenic" diet reversed diabetic nephropathy in two months. The researchers plan to explore how their observations may be tested further in humans.
PLoS ONE 2011 6(4): e18604.


April 25, 2017
Oats and Gluten: A new systematic review of 28 studies concluded that pure oats do not cause reactions in people with celiac disease. However, one complication is that oats are easily contaminated with gluten-containing grains such as wheat, rye, or barley at many stages of production, handling, and processing.
Gastroenterol. April 2017. [Epub ahead of print]


April 28, 2017
Coffee and Prostate Cancer: A four-year Italian study of almost 7000 men age 50-plus, found that the risk of prostate cancer was lower in men who consumed more coffee. Although some of the headlines on coverage of this study imply that there is something special about Italian coffee, the researchers followed up their epidemiological study with cell culture research using prostate cancer cell lines and concluded that the main contributor to the reduced risk was caffeine.
Int. J. Cancer. 27 April 2017. [Epub ahead of print]


May 1, 2017
Diabetes Risk in Filipinos: People of Filipino ancestry have a greater risk of developing diabetes than most other groups. A new study found that even normal weight Filipinos have almost three times as much risk of developing diabetes than non-hispanic whites.
Can J Public Health. 2017;108(1):e36-e42.


May 8, 2017
Stress and Intestinal Function: In response to four days of intensive military training that was both physically and psychologically demanding and stressful, soldiers experienced an increase in intestinal permeability, inflammation, and a change in the relative amounts of various bacteria in their lower intestine. These changes also may occur in athletes during periods of intensive training and would be expected to increase the risk for a number of problems, including increased susceptibility to illness and infection, and, if chronic, increased disease risk.
Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol. 2017 Mar 23. [Epub ahead of print]


May 10, 2017
Sugar Use by Muscle: It has been known for some time that muscle tissues can efficiently take up the sugar glucose from the blood during exercise even when insulin is low. New research is finding the cellular mechanisms for this phenomenon which may help to develop additional ways to manage elevated blood sugar levels.
Mol Cell. 2017 May 4;66(3):332-344.e4.


May 12, 2017
Vitamin D and Asthma: Some epidemiological studies found that low vitamin D status is associated with increased rates of asthma. However, a new large study on more than 100,000 individuals identified those with genetic variations associated with vitamin D status and found that there was no significant association between vitamin D status and the incidence of asthma. Though not likely to be a cure for asthma, maintaining good vitamin D status is important for many other health-related reasons.
PLoS Med. May 9, 2017. [Epub ahead of print]


May 19, 2017
Nutrients for Blood Pressure: Hypertension is a cause of premature death worldwide. To improve blood pressure,there are a number of nutrients that can help. These include: the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), vitamin C, vitamin D, potassium, and a tomato extract supplement called Fruitflow.
Eur J Nutr. 2017 Mar;56(2):461-482. doi: 10.1007/s00394-016-1265-2. Epub 2016 Jul 7.


May 21, 2017
Gestational Diabetes and Weight: A type of diabetes called gestational diabetes frequently develops in women during the third trimester of pregnancy. Women who gain a significant amount of weight after their first pregnancy are at greater risk of developing gestational diabetes during their second pregnancy.
Obstetrics & Gynecology 2011;117 ( 6):1323-1330.


May 26, 2017
Statin Use in Older Adults: Researchers analyzed data from 2,867 people, age 65 and older with high blood pressure and no evidence of arterial plaque accumulation. About half of these individuals were taking the statin drug pravastatin. After six years, the results indicated that there was no difference in mortality between those taking the statin drug and those not taking it. Of some concern, among those 75 and older, there was a nonsignificant trend toward increased all-cause mortality in those taking pravastatin.
JAMA Intern Med. May 22, 2017. [Epub ahead of print]


June 14, 2017
Natural Plant Compounds and Prostate Cancer: Researchers tested 142 natural plant compounds on mouse and human cell lines to see which compounds most effectively inhibit prostate cancer cell growth. The most effective compounds were ursolic acid, found in apple peels and rosemary; curcumin from turmeric; and resveratrol naturally found in red grapes or berries. This work requires substantial follow-up research to identify effective dosage and potentially negative effects of high doses.
npj Precision Oncology. June 2017. [Epub ahead of print]


June 15, 2017
Vitamin A and Diabetes: New research indicates that a form of vitamin A plays a key role in the process that triggers pancreas beta-cells to release insulin when needed. Although the researchers do not indicate that high dose vitamin A can treat type 2 diabetes (due to toxicity concerns), they do think that their research may lead to the discovery of other, less toxic, chemicals that can trigger the same cell receptors affected by vitamin A.
Endocrine J. 2017;64(3):325.


June 19, 2017
Vitamin D and Type 1 Diabetes: A study of 197 children and adolescents with type 1 (insulin dependent) diabetes found that 40 percent of them had low vitamin D status. Since those with low vitamin D status also were more likely to have poor blood glucose control, the researchers recommend that children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes be checked for vitamin D deficiency on a regular basis.
Diabetes Res Clin Pract. 2016 May;115:54-9.


June 21, 2017
Type 2 Diabetes and Fatty Liver: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an abnormal accumulation of fat in the liver that can damage liver structure and function over time. NAFLD is more common in people with type 2 diabetes. Good nutrition can help to prevent or treat NAFLD. Maintaining normal vitamin E and D status may help. Also, adequate intake of protein and choline helps to move fat out of the liver. Eggs are a rich source of choline as well as protein.
Diabetes Care 2016 Feb; dc151876.


June 22, 2017
Diabetes in Asia: Many people with certain types of Asian ancestry are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This is often the case for Asians who are not overweight by typical standards, but they have excess body fat - sometimes called normal weight obesity. Consequently, more specific standards are needed for these populations, along with regular screening for diabetes or prediabetes.
BMJ. 2016;355:i5953.


June 27, 2017
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Fish: Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition characterized by generalized inflammation throughout the body. A recent study of people with rheumatoid arthritis found that those who consumed at least two servings of fish per week on a regular basis had lower measures of disease activity.
Arthritis Care Res. 2017 Jun 21. [Epub ahead of print]


July 10, 2017
Anorexia Nervosa Outcome: A study in Germany evaluated the long-term outcomes of 112 people about 2 decades after their initial anorexia nervosa diagnosis. Predictors of long-term negative issues include both a lower BMI and older age at time of diagnosis. These results emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.
Int J Eat Disord.2017;1–10.


July 13, 2017
Iron Status and Heart Disease: In 1981, the theory was proposed that higher iron status increases the risk for coronary artery disease. A very large new study that accounted for genetics along with iron status found just the opposite - higher iron status reduces coronary artery disease risk. Up until now, less well-designed studies both supported and refuted the theory. This new study is the most conclusive to date and should relegate the 1981 theory to the history books.
Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol. 2017 Jul 6. [Epub ahead of print]


July 17, 2017
Non-anemic Iron Deficiency in Young Women: Young women are often screened for Iron deficiency anemia to assess iron status. However, a recent study found that this may miss almost ten percent of women age 12 to 21 years who have iron deficiency without anemia. The researchers recommend that females be fully evaluated for iron status (not just anemia) at age 16 or approximately three years after the start of menstruation.
PLoS One. 2017 May 9;12(5):e0177183.


July 27, 2017
Managing Blood Pressure: The focus on salt and sodium may have obscured the important roles that several other nutrients and food components play in the management of blood pressure. For example, omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), vitamins D, K, and C, and lycopene (from tomatoes) have all been found to have beneficial effects on hypertension.
World Heart Federation. Hypertension Fact Sheet. May 29, 2017.


July 30, 2017
Dental Health and Diabetes: Periodontal disease can be a complication of diabetes. New research indicates that dentists can spot the signs of undiagnosed diabetes or pre-diabetes and refer their patients for appropriate follow-up with a physician.
J Dent Res. 2011 Jul;90(7):855-60.


August 7, 2017
Diet-heart Hypothesis: Analysis of unpublished data from a large double blind randomized controlled trial conducted between 1968 and 1973 found that substituting vegetable oils for animal fats reduced serum cholesterol levels. However, contrary to the cholesterol-based "diet-heart hypothesis," those with greater reduction in serum cholesterol had a higher risk of death.
BMJ 2016;353:i1246.


August 8, 2017
Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Protein: A study with mice found that increasing the amino acid tryptophan in the diet substantially reduced intestinal inflammation. This suggests that studies are needed to determine if increased dietary protein would benefit people with inflammatory bowel disease. Most high protein foods provide significant amounts of tryptophan.
Science. 2017 Aug 3. [Epub ahead of print]


August 15, 2017
Cadmium and Endometrial Cancer: A new study reported that women with greater levels of cadmium in their urine had a significantly increased risk of developing endometrial cancer. Humans primarily obtain the heavy metal cadmium through environmental exposure and tobacco smoking. The main food sources of cadmium in the U.S. are shellfish and foods containing seafood and foods made from wheat.
PLOS ONE, 2017;12(7):e0179360.


August 30, 2017
Healthy Diet: Many studies have been questioning the long-standing recommendation to reduce dietary fat and especially saturated fat. Newly published research studied the diets and mortality of over 135,000 people across five continents. Based on data from about 7.5 years, the researchers found that a diet with a moderate intake of fat, fruits and vegetables along with avoidance of high carbohydrate intake was associated with lower risk of death. Lower total dietary fat and saturated fat was associated with increased risk of heart attack or death due to cardiovascular disease.
Lancet. 29 August 2017. [Epub ahead of print]


September 2, 2017
Vitamin C and asthma: Vitamin C supplementation of 200 mg per day was found to improve lung function in asthmatic children by about 30 percent compared to children receiving a placebo pill. The likelihood of vitamin C supplementation to have this benefit likely depends on the initial vitamin C status of the child.
Clinical and Translational Allergy 2011, 1:9.


September 6, 2017
Sleep and Cardiovascular Disease: Chronic sleep deprivation is well known to affect mental functions. New research shows that cumulative sleep debt also adversely affects inflammation and the metabolism of cholesterol in ways that increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
Scientific Reports. 2016;6:24828.


September 8, 2017
Extremely High HDL: A study conducted in Denmark followed more than 100,000 adults for an average of six years. They found that men with the lowest risk of death had HDL levels at 73 mg/dL and women with the lowest risk had HDL at 93 mg/dL. However, mortality risk increased in those with unusually high HDL levels (over 97 for men and above 135 for women). Since there were few people with such high HDL levels, the researchers suggest that more research is needed to confirm their observations.
Eur Heart J. 2017 Aug 21;38(32):2478-2486.


September 15, 2017
New Diet Measures and Diabetes: Some foods have fairly unique chemical components. Since measuring what people eat is difficult to do accurately, researchers are measuring blood levels of unique molecules that reflect the foods a person is eating. Using this approach, researchers found indications that eating fish and good sources of vitamin E is associated with reduced risk of developing diabetes in 64-year-old women.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2017 Sep 13. [Epub ahead of print]


September 18, 2017
Vitamin D and Rheumatoid Arthritis: In addition to pain from joint inflammation, people with rheumatoid arthritis can experience neurological pains not relieved by the medications commonly used for this condition. A new study found that rheumatoid arthritis patients who experienced this neuropathic pain were very likely to have low vitamin D status. Although iron status was not measured, 80 percent of those with this problem were women. It is possible that vitamin D and/or iron supplementation may help to prevent this neuropathic pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis in some people.
Int J Rheum Dis. 2017 Aug 31. [Epub ahead of print]


September 22, 2017
Dairy Foods and Diabetes A summary of recent research supports the importance of considering specific types of foods within a food group like dairy products. There is growing evidence that fermented dairy products such as yogurt are strongly associated with reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Nutr Rev. 2015 Aug; 73(Suppl 1): 15–22.


October 2, 2017
Blood Tests for Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is difficult to diagnose and treat. Blood tests are sometimes used in attempts to identify potentially offending foods. However, evidence that these tests are effective has been limited. The results of a new study indicate that diets limiting suspected offending foods based on these blood tests can significantly reduce symptoms.
BMJ Open Gastroenterology, 2017; 4 (1): e000164.


October 4, 2017
Caffeine and Parkinson's Disease: In 2012, the results of a 6-week study with 61 Parkinson’s patients indicated that caffeine reduced debilitating movement symptoms. However, a new longer duration study (6 to 18 months) just published by the same researchers found that caffeine did not significantly benefit Parkinson's disease patients. More research is needed.
Neurology. September 27, 2017. [Epub ahead of print]


October 6, 2017
Skipping Breakfast: A study of over 4000 adults 40 to 54 years of age found that those who skipped breakfast had increased odds of having generalized atherosclerosis compared to those who consumed a high calorie breakfast that provided at least 20 percent of their total daily calorie intake. It is not known why breakfast eating may have this beneficial effect.
J Am Col Card. 2017;70(15):1833.


October 10, 2017
Vitamin K and Heart Health: A study of 766 healthy teens, age 14 to 18, found that those with the lowest intake of vitamin K were more likely to have enlarged left ventricles - the part of the heart that pumps blood to the body. This enlargement is generally associated with heart stress caused by things like high blood pressure. It is not known why this association exists, however, it is known that low vitamin K intake is associated with calcium accumulation in artery walls.
J. Nutr. 2017;147(10):1960-1967.


October 13, 2017
Potassium and Cardiovascular Disease: It has been known for some time that consuming foods that provide an adequate intake of potassium is associated with a reduced risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. A new animal study has now shown that adequate potassium intake also prevents calcium build-up in arteries. Potatoes, bananas and prunes are three good sources of potassium.
JCI Insight. 2017;2(19):94920.


October 16, 2017
Diet and Coronary Heart Disease: A very large study compared the plant-based diet aspects of the participants' eating habits and their risk of developing coronary heart disease. Although some questionable assumptions were made in the design of the study, it does point out that a poorly selected plant-based diet can be less healthy than a diet that includes moderate amounts of animal foods.
J Amer Col Card. 2017;70(4):423-425.


October 18, 2017
Blood Pressure Guidelines for Children: Elevated blood pressure in children can be an indication of a variety of problems in the body. This includes things like heart or kidney dysfunction. The American Academy of Pediatrics released new guidelines for assessing blood pressure in children and adolescents.
Pediatrics. 2017;140(3):1-74.


October 19, 2017
Stress and the Microbiota: A study with female mice found that exposure to 18 days of intermittent stress conditions altered the composition of their lower intestinal bacteria in a way that was similar to the effects of a high fat diet. This effect was not observed in male mice and it remains to be determined if humans are affected in a similar manner.
Scientific Reports. 2017;7(1):1-12.


November 4, 2017
Microbes and Fatty Liver: Fatty liver disease, a condition in which fat builds up in the liver, can have serious health consequences. The condition appears to be most commonly caused by alcohol abuse, obesity, hormonal changes and/or diabetes. However, new research is linking fatty liver to both the microbial balance in the lower intestine and an individual's genetically determined ability to synthesize choline.
Gastroenterology. 2011 Mar;140(3):976-86.


November 9, 2017
Vitamin A and TB Risk: Tuberculosis (TB) is still a major health problem in many parts of the world that also suffer from low vitamin A status. New research indicates that people with low vitamin A status are 10 times more likely than those with good vitamin A status to become infected with TB when they are near people with TB.
Clin Infect Dis. 2017;65(6):900–909.


November 13, 2017
Eating Late: New research with rats indicates that a part of the brain that controls our circadian rhythms also affects blood levels of triglycerides that are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Eating late or during the night increases blood triglyceride levels more than eating early in the day.
Exp Physiol. 2017 Nov 7. [Epub ahead of print]


November 11, 2017
Hep C and Coffee: Almost ten times as many people are infected by the hepatitis C virus compared to the AIDS virus. It is a good idea for baby boomers to get tested for the virus since new and effective treatments are now available. Previous research also indicated that coffee consumption may help to slow the progression of the disease.
Gastroenterology. 2011 Jun;140(7):1961-9.


November 19, 2017
Fiber and Colon Health? It is a common assumption that adequate dietary fiber helps to prevent colorectal cancer. Although this has not been supported by all studies on the topic, a new meta-analysis of multiple studies does support this assumption.
BMJ 2011;343:d6617


November 26, 2017
Nocturia, a condition defined as needing to rise two or more times a night to urinate, can hamper the ability to get good quality sleep. Management or treatment of the problem requires medical evaluation because the condition may be a sign of underlying disease or simply a sign of aging.
Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol. 2011 Oct;23(5):376-85.


November 30, 2017
Diabetes Mechanism Identified: Researchers at the University of Geneva identified a protein that increases in the body with obesity and causes the insulin resistance that is characteristic of type 2 diabetes. It is anticipated that ways can be developed to either block the effects of the protein or reduce its production to prevent obesity-related diabetes.
Nature Communications. 2017. 28 Nov. [Epub ahead of print]


December 6, 2017
Diverticulitis Risk Factors: Diverticulitis is a painful inflammation of small pouches that form in the lower intestine, most commonly during the later half of life. Research on over 50,000 men followed for about 25 years found that the major factors that increase the risk of diverticulitis are smoking, being overweight (BMI > 25), having no vigorous physical activity, and consuming a low fiber diet and more than four 5-ounce servings of red meat per week.
Am J Gastro. 2017/11/07. [Epub ahead of print]


December 11, 2017
Microbiome Changing Pills: Recurrent infection by the bacterium C. difficile causes serious chronic diarrhea and is difficult to treat with antibiotics. One of the most successful treatments is introducing a mixture of healthy fecal bacteria into the colon via colonoscopy which requires sedation. Now, a new study has found that C. difficile infections can be treated as effectively by taking capsules containing the fecal microbes by the oral route. No sedation needed.
JAMA. 2017;318(20):1985–1993.


December 12, 2017
Sugar and Risk of Heart Disease: New research is confirming old research that links high sugar diets to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. For decades, this research has been overshadowed by the saturated fat and cholesterol hypothesis. However, blood glucose management and insulin function appear to be integrally involved in the development of cardiovascular disease.
Open Heart 2017;4:e000729.


December 17, 2017
Exercise lowers blood glucose: A small study with eight type 2 diabetic participants found that daily brief, high intensity exercise (ten 1-minute bouts of exercise with one minute of rest between each bout) greatly improved blood glucose control within two weeks.
J Appl Physiol. 2011 Dec;111(6):1554-60.


December 20, 2017
Exercise and Parkinson Disease: Researchers studied 128 Parkinson disease patients that participated in a 6-month exercise program. They found that those in the higher-intensity exercise group (exercise heart rate at about 80% of maximum heart rate) experienced less progression of their disease than those in the moderate-intensity group (about 66% of maximum heart rate).
JAMA Neurol. 2017. [Epub ahead of print]


December 30, 2017
Celiac Disease and Depression: Even with a gluten-free diet, almost 40 percent of women with celiac disease report depression symptoms. Iron deficiency is common in celiac disease and low iron status is known to cause depression. However, normalizing iron status in someone with celiac disease can be challenging.
Chronic Illn. 2011 Sep 20. [Epub ahead of print]


January 4, 2018
Tea and Glaucoma Risk: In a study of 1678 people who were tested for glaucoma, 84 (5.1%) were diagnosed with the eye condition. By using a food frequency questionnaire, they found that those who consumed at least one cup of hot tea daily had a 74% decrease in the odds of having glaucoma compared with those who did not consume hot tea. This type of study can not establish a cause and effect relationship, but does suggest the need for further study of tea drinking and glaucoma.
Br J Ophthalmol. 2017 Dec 14. [Epub ahead of print]


January 5, 2018
Diet and Respiratory Health: Lung function decline is a common occurrence with aging, particularly in smokers and ex-smokers. A study that followed 680 individuals (average age 44 years) for 10 years found that apple, banana and tomato consumption were all associated with less decline in lung function measures in ex-smokers. Herbal tea consumption also was protective, but the study did not provide data on specific herbal teas.
Eur Resp J. 2017;50(6):1602286.


January 10, 2018
Vitamin D and Arterial Health: Arterial stiffness increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. New research in a group of 70 overweight African Americans (age 13 to 45) with low vitamin D status found that supplementation with up to 4000 IU/day of vitamin D for 16 weeks significantly decreased arterial stiffness.
PLOS ONE, 2017; 12 (12): e0188424.


January 11, 2018
Obesity and Blood Cell Production: Obesity is associated with increased overall inflammation in the body. This is known to decrease iron absorption and increase the risk of developing iron deficiency. New research in an animal model indicates that obesity also can cause a decrease in general blood cell production.
J Exp Med. Dec 2017. [Epub ahead of print]


January 16, 2018
Exercise and Aging: Heart failure with age is linked to increased cardiac stiffness and reduction in the capacity to deliver oxygen throughout the body. A 2-year exercise program in previously sedentary healthy middle-aged adults (45 to 64) resulted in decreased cardiac stiffness and improved oxygen utilization. This shows that increasing exercise at the right stage of life can reverse some aspects of heart aging.
Circulation. 2018;137(3). [Epub ahead of print]


January 20, 2018
Importance of Hydration: Maintaining normal hydration in the body is one of the most basic aspects of good nutrition. Chronically low water intake has even been linked to increased risk of diabetes.
Diabetes Care. 2011 Dec;34(12):2551-4.


January 24, 2018
Vitamin K and Cardiovascular Health: A study of over 4000 adults found that 31percent of them were deficient in vitamin K. Among those with cardiovascular comorbidities (hypertension, type 2 diabetes, chronic kidney disease, etc.) about 50 percent were assessed as being vitamin K deficient. Further research on this is clearly important, as It is known that vitamin K helps to prevent calcification of arteries
Nutrients. 2017 Dec 8;9(12). pii: E1334.


January 31, 2018
Vitamin D and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A number of studies have found that vitamin D deficiency is more common in people with IBS. Although vitamin D deficiency does not likely cause IBS, some cases of the condition may benefit from vitamin D supplementation that helps to normalize vitamin D status.
Eur J Clin Nutr. 2018 Jan 25. [Epub ahead of print]


February 8, 2018
Coenzyme Q10 and Insulin Resistance: A study using human fat and muscle tissues found that those with insulin resistance (seen in type 2 diabetes and pre-diabetes) had lower levels of CoQ10 in their tissues. The researchers found that increasing CoQ10 levels eliminated the insulin resistance. The researchers point out that supplements of CoQ10 are very poorly absorbed and would not be expected to provide this benefit. Finding ways to increase cellular production of C0Q10 is more likely to treat insulin resistance.
eLIFE. 6 February 2018. [Epub Ahead of Print]


February 12, 2018
Nutrition and Hearing: A recent study conducted on 2,200 young adults in Nepal showed that poor malnutrition in early childhood negatively affected hearing later in life. Stunting and extreme thinness were considered poor nutrition.
Am J Clin Nutr 2018;0:1–10; DOI: 10.1093/ajcn/nqx022


February 21, 2018
Diet and Fatty Liver: Decreasing dietary carbohydrate and increasing protein in the diets of adults with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) was very effective in treating the condition - reducing liver fat. The study focus was on carbohydrate restriction, but the increased protein intake was substantial and may have been equally important or even more important than carbohydrate restriction. Fats are mobilized from the liver via lipoproteins that require an adequate supply of protein for their synthesis.
Cell Metab. 2018 Feb 7. Epub ahead of print]


February 24, 2018
Citrus Fruits and Brain Health: Specific flavanone compounds present naturally in citrus fruits have been shown to be associated with a reduced risk of stroke.
Stroke, February 23 2012.


March 11, 2018
H-pylori and blood glucose: The bacterium Helicobacter pylori lives in the lining of the stomach of some people and is considered to be a cause of stomach ulcers. Research shows that people who harbor the bacteria have compromised control of blood glucose.
The Journal of Infectious Diseases, Volume 205, Issue 8, 15 April 2012, Pages 1195–1202,


March 12, 2018
Gut Microbiota and Autoimmune Disease: The mixture of microorganisms thriving in the lower intestine commonly includes a mix of "good" and "bad" bacteria. New research has identified Enterococcus gallinarum as a likely "bad" one, especially because it appears to be able to get out of the intestine and travel to various locations in the body where it triggers autoimmune diseases. The research indicates that proper antibiotic treatment or vaccines may be a way to prevent or treat some of these autoimmune diseases.
Science. 2018;359(6380):1156-1161.


March 18, 2018
H-Pylori and Blood Glucose: The bacterium Helicobacter pylori lives in the lining of the stomach of some people and is considered to be a cause of stomach ulcers. A new study found that people who harbor the bacteria have compromised control of blood glucose.
J Infect Dis, 2012/03/12 p1195-1202; DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jis106


April 8, 2018
Eye Health: Two carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin, are especially beneficial for retinal health. They are found in many fruits and vegetables. Some dietary supplements provide these two compounds in the free form which makes them much better absorbed than they are from their natural sources.
J Am Coll Nutr. 2010 Dec;29(6):575-85.


April 9, 2018
Mandatory Recall of Herbal Supplement: An herbal supplement containing powdered kratom was found to be contaminated with salmonella bacteria. FDA's request for a voluntary recall by the company selling the product was not acted upon by the company, so the FDA implemented a mandatory recall. Kratom is said to function like an opiod pain killer drug without the risks of addiction. As more is learned about this supplement, it may become necessary for FDA to classify it as a drug.
Food Safety News. APRIL 4, 2018.


April 25, 2018
Alcohol and Oral Health: It is well established that heavy drinking increases the risk for developing many diseases. New research on the oral microbiome now links heavy drinking of alcoholic beverages with an increased risk of cavities and gum disease.
Microbiome. 2018 24 April. [Epub ahead of print]


April 28, 2018
Obesity and RA: Obese women have an increased risk of developing the painful autoimmune disorder rheumatoid arthritis. If researchers can determine why this painful joint disease is linked with these factors, it could help to uncover the causes of rheumatoid arthritis.
Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken). 2013 Jan;65(1):71-7.


April 30, 2018
Obesity and Cancer: It is known that some types of cancer are more common in people who are obese. A new study with rats found that this may be due to obesity inhibiting the action of cells that normally protect against cancer. This also was associated with increased inflammation. Giving the obese rats aspirin reduced inflammation and cancer.
Cell Reports. 2018;23(4):974.


May 8, 2018
High Fat Diet, Microbiota, & Inflammation: A new study with mice found that changes in the microbial composition of the lower intestine, when the mice were fed a high fat diet, reduced the bacterial production of compounds that normally help to reduce inflammation in the body. This may help to find better ways to reduce the inflammation typical of many types of conditions ranging from liver to joint diseases.
Cell Reports. 2018;23(4):1099-1111.


May 11, 2018
Very Low Carb Diet in Type 1 Diabetes: An observational study was conducted on 316 people (adults and children) with type 1 diabetes (insulin-dependent diabetes) who were consuming a very low carbohydrate diet to manage their condition. The study reported that the study participants had low rates of hypoglycemia and other complications common in type 1 diabetes. Due to limitations in the design of the study, the authors recommend controlled clinical trials of very low carbohydrate diets to confirm or refute their observations.
Pediatrics. 2018 May 7. [Epub ahead of print]


May 16, 2018
Diet and Hearing Loss: A study that followed over 70,000 women for about 22 years found that those with more healthful diets were significantly less likely to experience hearing loss later in life. Healthy diets were considered to be those that provided a wide variety of foods from all food groups without excessive amounts of things like fat, sugar, and salt.
Nutrition, 2018; DOI: 10.1093/jn/nxy058


May 18, 2018
Physical Activity and Heart Failure: Declining heart function during the adult years of life leads to heart failure in many people. A new study reports that maintaining recommended activity levels with age is associated with the lowest risk of heart failure. However, initiating and increasing physical activity also substantially lower heart failure risk, even in late middle age.
Circulation. 2018;137:2142-2151.


May 21, 2018
Gut Bugs and the Brain: More and more, scientists are finding important links between the gut and the brain. New research using both animal models and human brain cells is identifying connections between chemicals produced by intestinal bacteria and the function of the immune system and the health of brain cells. This research may lead to new therapies for prevention and treatment of diseases like multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer disease.
Nature. May 16, 2018. [Epub ahead of print]


May 23, 2018
Eggs and Cardiovascular Disease Risk: A large study of over half a million adults in China found that people who consumed eggs almost daily had a significantly lower risk of cardiovascular diseases when compared to those who rarely or never consumed eggs. In particular, the frequent egg consumers were 26% less likely to have a hemorrhagic stroke. Although this is not the type of study that establishes cause and effect conclusions, it supports more recent recommendations to include eggs as part of a healthful varied diet.
Heart. 21 May 2018. [Epub ahead of print]


May 26, 2018
Updated Research Continues to Support: Research supports the evolving concept that obesity is not a significant risk factor for heart disease unless the obese individual also has metabolic health problems indicated by abnormal blood pressure, blood sugar, HDL cholesterol, and C-reactive protein, a measure of inflammation in the body. Regular physical activity can help to prevent these metabolic health problems.
Obes Res Clin Pract. 2017 May - Jun;11(3):315-323. doi: 10.1016/j.orcp.2016.08.009


June 6, 2018
Postmenopausal Height Loss: Height loss after menopause is common in women. Participating in strenuous exercise regularly during teen years was associated with less height loss during postmenopausal years. The use of corticosteroid drugs was a strong predictor of more height loss.
Menopause. MAY 5, 2018. [Epub ahead of print]


June 13, 2018
Spousal Influence on Diabetes Risk: Analysis of data from about 7000 men and women indicated that high body mass index (BMI) in the female spouse was significantly associated with an increased risk of the male spouse having type 2 diabetes. This association persisted even when the male spouse had a normal BMI.
Diabetologia. 8 March 2018. [Epub ahead of print]


June 22, 2018
Carotenoids and Hearing: It is well known that carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin are important for retinal health and good vision. Now, research indicates that these compounds also benefit hearing.
Nutr Neurosci. 2017 Jan;20(1):1-7.


July 13, 2018
Weight Loss and Knee Osteoarthritis: An 18-month study of 240 overweight and obese older adults (about 65 yrs old) with pain due to knee osteoarthritis found that weight loss significantly reduced pain and inflammation and improved physical function. These improvements were apparent in those who lost at least 10 percent of their initial body weight. Those who lost over 20 percent experienced even greater improvement.
Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken). 2018 Jun 18. [Epub ahead of print]


July 14, 2018
Updated Research Continues to Support: Cranberry juice has been a commonly recommended folk remedy for the prevention and treatment of urinary tract infections. The scientific support for this is somewhat mixed, but overall, a recent review of the science does indicate benefit for some people.
J Nutr. 2017 Dec;147(12):2282-2288. doi: 10.3945/jn.117.254961. Epub 2017 Oct 18.


July 16, 2018
Obesity: Obesity often is considered to be a factor that increases the overall risk of mortality. However, a new analysis of data from over 50,000 men and women indicated that about one out of 20 obese people had no risk factors (like hypertension, dyslipidemia, and high blood glucose). These risk-factor-free obese individuals had the same mortality risk as lean healthy individuals.
Clin Obes. 2018 Jul 12. doi: 10.1111/cob.12263. [Epub ahead of print]


July 19, 2018
Milk Fat: The fat in milk has some fatty acids with an odd number of carbon atoms (15 and 17 carbons). Since these fatty acids are not found much in other foods, blood levels of these fatty acids can be used to determine habitual intake of milk fat. A study followed 2907 U.S. adults, age 65 and older, for 22 years and found that those with greater blood levels of these milk-derived fatty acids had lower cardiovascular disease and stroke mortality.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2018 Jul 11. [Epub ahead of print]


July 23, 2018
Macular Degeneration: The light-sensitive retina of the eye can degenerate with aging in a way that mainly impairs central vision. A new study found that those who had the habit of consuming an orange per day were significantly less likely to develop macular degeneration. The researches think that the main protective factor in the orange is compounds called flavonoids.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2018 Jul 6. [Epub ahead of print]


July 24, 2018
Vitamin E Decreases Liver Cancer Risk: A study conducted in China, where liver cancer is more common than in the U.S., found that consuming adequate vitamin E from foods or supplements was associated with a reduced risk of developing liver cancer.
J Natl Cancer Inst. 2012 Aug 8;104(15):1173-81. doi: 10.1093/jnci/djs277.


July 25, 2018
Pancreatic Cancer and Antioxidants: Pancreatic cancer is difficult to treat and has a very low survival rate. A study of 23,500 people found that people whose diets provided the most vitamins C and E as well as the mineral selenium were less likely to develop pancreatic cancer.
Gut. 2013 Oct;62(10):1489-96. doi: 10.1136/gutjnl-2011-301908


July 30, 2018
Blood Glucose: Circulating blood glucose changes throughout the day and night and is influenced by food choices, amount and type of physical activity, hormones, and health status. A new continuous glucose monitoring system showed that large fluctuations in blood glucose happen much more commonly than expected even in healthy participants.
PLOS Biology 2018; 16 (7): e2005143 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.2005143


August 2, 2018
Swallowing Difficulty with Age: Muscle loss is common and usually obvious with aging. Not so obvious is a loss of muscle in the throat (pharynx) which can compromise the efficiency of swallowing. This can cause food and liquid residue or even pills to remain in the throat after swallowing.
Dysphagia, 2018; pp 1–9. DOI: 10.1007/s00455-018-9924-5


August 4, 2018
Undiagnosed Celiac Disease: People with celiac disease experience an immune reaction in their small intestines to the gluten protein in wheat and other grains. This reaction damages the intestinal lining. A new estimate of celiac disease in the U.S. indicates that about one out of every 141 people have the condition, but almost 80 percent were undiagnosed and unaware that they had the condition.
The American Journal of Gastroenterology volume 107, pages 1538–1544 (2012)


August 18, 2018
Dental Health: It often is forgotten that poor dental health can be a sign of poor nutrition. A recent study found that oral health problems in disadvantaged elementary and high school students were highly associated with lower grade point averages.
Am J Public Health. 2012 Sep;102(9):1729-34. doi: 10.2105/AJPH.2011.300478. Epub 2012 Jul 19.


August 23, 2018
Sodium Recommendations: A new large study questions common recommendations to keep sodium intake below 2500 or even below 1500 mg/day. Their findings indicated that recommendations for sodium restriction would only be beneficial for reducing cardiovascular disease in groups of people consuming more that 5000 mg/day. They also found that there is a stronger case for increasing the consumption of foods rich in potassium (primarily fruits and vegetables) than for reducing sodium.
The Lancet, 2018;392(10146):496-605.


August 30, 2018
Protein and Fatty Liver: During a two-month weight loss program, participants lost about eight percent of their body weight (25 pounds/11.4 kg). Following this, a two-year weight maintenance program found that maintenance of an adequate protein intake (about one gram per kg body weight) prevented fatty liver.
Am J Phys Endo Metab. 07 AUG 2018. [Epub ahead of print]


September 5, 2018
Vitamin C Deficiency: An inadequate intake of vitamin C causes a condition called scurvy. Some of the first symptoms of not consuming enough vitamin C include bleeding gums and sore joints, including knee joints.
Linus Pauling Institute » Micronutrient Information Center - vitamin-C


September 24, 2018
Vitamin D Status and Breast Cancer: A new study on postmenopausal women in Brazil found that women diagnosed with breast cancer had significantly lower vitamin D status than a comparison group of women without breast cancer. Many factors can affect vitamin D status, including dietary intake, sunlight exposure, and iron status.
Menopause. 2018 Sep 17. [Epub ahead of print]


October 1, 2018
Preventing Chemotherapy-induced Taste and smell Abnormality: A new study with people being treated with chemotherapy found that taking a lactoferrin supplement (250 mg three times a day) significantly reduced the usual changes in taste and smell. Lactoferrin is a protein naturally present in saliva and milk.
Food & Function, 2018;9(9):4948.


October 6, 2018
Apples and Heart Health: The recommendation to eat an apple a day can now add heart health benefits to its accomplishments. Recent research showed that this simple dietary intervention decreased the risk of atherosclerosis partially due to poyphenols.
Journal of Functional Foods, 2012; DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2012.08.010


October 8, 2018
Genetics of Diabetes: Obesity is known to increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. However, some people who are not overweight also develop type 2 diabetes. Researchers now have identified a specific gene variant that predisposes people of normal or low body weight to developing diabetes.
BMC Obesity. 2018(5):26. -x


October 25, 2018
Vegetable Nitrates and Macular Degeneration: A study that followed over 2000 people over age 49 for 15 years found that those who consumed very large amounts of high nitrate vegetables like spinach and beets had lower risk of developing the signs of age-related macular degeneration. Although this is interesting, the authors failed to address the fact that these vegetables also are high in carotenoids known to benefit retinal health. A better study design is needed to determine if vegetable nitrates are protective.
J Acad Nutr Diet. 2018 Oct 17. [Epub ahead of print]


November 4, 2018
Breast Cancer and Body Weight: When it comes to breast cancer survival, maintaining a healthy weight does not necessarily mean having a low body weight. Women who were underweight or morbidly obese before breast cancer diagnosis both had greater risk of mortality than women with normal body weight.
Breast Cancer Res Treat. 2012 Apr;132(2):729-39.


November 8, 2018
Salt Restriction and Heart Failure: Salt restriction is commonly prescribed to people experiencing heart failure from various causes. However, a recent comprehensive review indicates that there is little good evidence to support (or refute) this recommendation. Other research indicates that adequate potassium intake is likely more important than salt restriction, however this review did not address potassium.
JAMA Intern Med. 05 November 2018. [Epub ahead of print]


November 10, 2018
Increasing Walking Ability in Parkinson Disease: People with impaired walking due to Parkinson disease improved their walking ability with three months of exercise performed three times a week for 30 to 50 minutes each time. Both treadmill exercise and a combination of resistance and stretching exercise produced significant benefit. It appears that combining these types of exercise may be the best approach for Parkinson disease patients.
JAMA Neurol. 2013;70(2):183-190. doi:10.1001/jamaneurol.2013.646


November 12, 2018
Vitamin K and Cardiovascular Health: Vitamin K is important for many reasons. Depending on the tissue, Vitamin K either increases calcium deposits (as in bones) or decreases calcium deposits (as in arteries). Green leafy vegetables are rich sources of vitamin K and can help to prevent the "hardening" of the arteries that occurs with cardiovascular disease.
Nutrients. 2017 Dec 8;9(12.


December 3, 2018
Vitamin D and Rosacea: A new study on rosacea, a skin condition that causes redness and visible blood vessels in facial skin, found that people with rosacea generally had higher blood levels of vitamin D (25-hydroxy vitamin D) than a control group without rosacea. Although this is an interesting observation, additional research is needed to determine if vitamin D contributes to the cause of rosacea.
Clin Exp Dermatol. 23 September 2018. [Epub ahead of print]


January 7, 2019
Vitamin C and Metabolic Syndrome: Metabolic Syndrome is characterized by a combination of indicators such as high waist circumference, elevated blood glucose, triglycerides, and pressure, along with low "good" cholesterol (HDL). This metabolic state increases inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. New research indicates that these factors increase vitamin C needs and adequate dietary vitamin C is likely important in the treatment of metabolic syndrome.
Redox Biology. 26 December 2018. [Epub ahead of print]


January 11, 2019
Eggs and Type 2 Diabetes: Studies have found that the consumption of eggs is associated with a reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes. New research conducted on over 200 men found that the blood samples of men who ate more eggs had a profile of compounds considered to help prevent type 2 diabetes. Further study of these compounds will help to determine if there is any causal link between egg consumption and diabetes prevention.
Mol Nutr Food Res. 12 December 2018. [Epub ahead of print]


January 15, 2019
Alcohol and Atrial Fibrillation: A new study using an electroanatomic mapping technology studied 75 men with atrial fibrillation. They found that men who were moderate drinkers (8 to 21 alcoholic drinks per week) showed more evidence of scarring and impaired electrical signaling than light drinkers (2 to 7 drinks per week) and non-drinkers.
Heart Rhythm. 9 January 2019. [Epub ahead of print]


January 20, 2019
Microbes and Health: The composition of the bacterial community in the lower intestine can have substantial effects on the body. New studies are even finding likely links between the makeup of the intestinal microbiota and autoimmune disease.
Eur J Clin Nutr. 2013 Mar;67(3):275-81. doi: 10.1038/ejcn.2012.218.


January 21, 2019
Gut Health: Clostridium difficile is a microorganism that can infect the intestinal tract and is antibiotic resistant and very difficult to eliminate. Today the best treatment appears to be transferring fecal matter from a healthy person to the intestine of the infected person. For health, it is important to maintain a healthy microbial ecology in the lower intestine.
Ann Intern Med. 2015 May 5;162(9):630-8. doi: 10.7326/M14-2693.


January 22, 2019
Linoleic Acid and Inflammation: The omega-6 fatty acid called linoleic acid is one of the essential fatty acids found in many plant oils. New research indicates that high intake of linoleic acid can produce inflammation in people that have a specific variant in a gene associated with fatty acid metabolism. Work building on this research can contribute to specific dietary recommendations based on individual genetics.
Am J Clin Nutr. 08 January 2019. [Epub ahead of print]


January 28, 2019
Sugar and Fatty Liver in Teens: In a study of 40 adolescent boys with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, half of the boys consumed a diet low in sugar. Those on the low sugar diet for 8 weeks had a reduction in liver fat content. However, it appears that those on the lower sugar diet also consumed greater amounts of protein than the usual diet group. Since protein is known to play an important role in transport of fat out of the liver, it is not possible to determine whether low sugar or additional protein made the difference.
JAMA, 2019; 321 (3): 256-265.


February 18, 2019
Relationship Between Sweet Preference and Metabolic Syndrome: Individuals with a high preference for sweets and a high aversion to bitter flavors are more likely to have metabolic syndrome according to a new study. More research, is needed to determine if these taste sensitivities are genetically determined or occur as a result of the metabolic condition.
J Food Sci. 2013 Feb;78(2):S336-42. doi: 10.1111/1750-3841.12008. Epub 2013 Jan 16.


February 21, 2019
N-6 fatty acids and hypertension: Dietary n-6 fatty acids, as found in nuts and seeds, have been shown to be beneficial to controlling blood pressure in healthy Japanese. However, in the Japanese who were insulin resistant, these fatty acids may increase the risk of hypertension.
Nutrients 2018, 10(12), 1825 https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10121825


February 24, 2019
Body Fat and Inflammation: It was once thought that excess fat stored below the waist does not increase the risks for heart disease and diabetes. This concept has been challenged by new research. The main observation was that gluteal adipose tissue secretes abnormal levels of key proteins that can lead to inflammation and insulin resistance in individuals with early metabolic syndrome.
J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2013 Mar;98(3):E514-7. doi: 10.1210/jc.2012-3673. Epub 2013 Jan 9.


February 25, 2019
Eggs and Diabetes: As a good source of protein and choline, eggs have been found to be a good part of a healthful diet for people with diabetes. Eating eggs in moderation should not negatively affect a person's risk of heart disease, and may improve fasting blood glucose levels.
Amer J Clin Nutr. 2016;101(4):705–713.


February 28, 2019
Colorectal Cancer Risk: A new study conducted in China found that those who consumed more allium vegetables (garlic and onions) had a lower risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Asia?Pac J Clin Oncol. 2019;1–9.


March 12, 2019
Vitamin D and Asthma in Obese Children: A 9-month study was conducted with 120 obese children age 5-12 years who had been diagnosed with asthma. They found that children with low vitamin D status (low 25-OH vitamin D) were more adversely affected by indoor air pollutants. Maintaining optimal vitamin D status may help to reduce asthma symptoms in obese children.
J Allergy Clin Immun Prac. February 2019. [Epub ahead of print]


March 13, 2019
Muscle Strength and Diabetes Risk: Research shows that a moderate level of muscle strength as measured by strength and treadmill tests were associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. More research is needed to understand how much exercise helps to decrease diabetes risk.
Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 2019; DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2018.08.037


March 14, 2019
Cholesterol risk factor paradox: In individuals, 80 years and older, low cholesterol is associated with increased risk of death from cancer and respiratory disease. This challenges statin use in octogenarians.
Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 2019; DOI: 10.1111/jgs.15733


March 21, 2019
Fish Oils and Asthma: A study of 642 adults indicated that greater blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids that are found in fish oils were associated with decreased risk of having asthma symptoms. However, a high level of some of the omega-6 fatty acids that are found in various vegetable oils was associated with an increased risk of asthma symptoms.
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health. 2019;16(1):43.


March 24, 2019
DHA to Prevent AMD: Docosahexaenoic acid, better known as DHA, is a long chain omega-3 fatty acid that is highly concentrated in the retina and essential for its function. Found primarily in fish oils, this fatty acid is an important nutrient for the prevention of age-related vision loss due to macular degeneration. In addition to fish oils, special algae oil supplements can provide this fatty acid.
American Academy of Ophthalmology. August 2013 Volume 120, Issue 8, Pages 1619–1631


March 25, 2019
Frying Oil and Cancer: A new study using a mouse model for breast cancer compared the effects of feeding fresh soybean oil to the effects of feeding the mice oil that had been reheated a number of times similar to what occurs in deep fryers in restaurants. They found that the reheated oil (unlike the fresh oil) resulted in biochemical changes that speed up the progression of late-stage breast cancer and promote tumor cell growth and proliferation.
Cancer Prev Res March 18 2019. [Epub ahead of print]


March 26, 2019
Diet and Cataracts: Cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eye that impairs vision. The incidence of cataracts increases with age. A new study demonstrates that including colorful fruits and vegetables in the diet helps to prevent cataracts. The results of the study found that high vitamin C foods like citrus fruits and peppers along with high carotenoid foods like carrots, tomatoes, and dark green vegetables are most strongly associated with a reduced risk of cataracts.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2019 Jan 1;109(1):43-54.


March 28, 2019
Fasting-mimicking Diet: A new study conducted with both a mouse model and with people found that consuming about half of ones energy requirement for a few days reduced inflammation in the body and relieved symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.
Cell Reports. 2019;26(10):2704.


April 2, 2019
Fiber and Stroke Prevention?: A summary of the results from eight studies indicated that study participants who consumed diets higher in dietary fiber had a lower risk of having a stroke. However, it is not possible to determine if the dietary benefits were due to the fiber content or due to other substances that happen to be present in foods that are good sources of fiber.
Stroke. 2013 May;44(5):1360-8. doi: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.111.000151. Epub 2013 Mar 28.


April 4, 2019
Beetroot Juice and Hypertension: A new study using a rat strain with salt-sensitive hypertension found that feeding the animals small amounts of nitrate salts or beetroot juice (naturally high in nitrate) along with salt prevented the usual salt-induced increase in blood pressure. Adding sources of nitrate to salty foods could possibly help people with salt-sensitive hypertension. However, it is estimated that less than 25% of people with hypertension are salt-sensitive.
Hypertension. 28 Mar 2019. [Epub Ahead of Print]


April 6, 2019
Iron and Decreased PMS: Premenopausal adult women require more than double the amount of iron needed by men. A 10-year study of about 3,000 women enrolled in the U.S. Nurses' Health Study II found that women with the greatest total dietary iron intake had the lowest relative risk of having PMS (premenstrual syndrome).
Am J Epidemiol. 2013 May 15;177(10):1118-27. doi: 10.1093/aje/kws363. Epub 2013 Feb 26


April 11, 2019
Low-Calories and Diabetes: Type 2 diabetes typically improves rapidly after bariatric surgery. A new study found that just reducing calorie intake to match that of post-surgery individuals has the same effect on diabetes. Unfortunately, maintaining a low-calorie intake is difficult for most people.
Diabetes Care 2013 Mar; DC_122316.


April 16, 2019
Low Carbohydrate Breakfast for Diabetes: A study compared the effects of a low carbohydrate breakfast (less than 10% of calories from carbohydrate) to a normal carbohydrate breakfast following Dietary Guidelines recommendations (55% of calories from carbohydrate) in 23 adults with type 2 diabetes. The low carb breakfast resulted in much lower blood glucose rise after breakfast. Even though this was followed with a balanced lunch and dinner with typical carbohydrate levels, it resulted in an overall reduction in the day's glucose load which could provide significant benefits to diabetics.
Am J Clin Nutr. 09 April 2019. [Epub ahead of print]


April 22, 2019
Gut Microbiome and Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Treatment of children with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be difficult and complicated. Researchers have developed a way to link the composition of the microbial contents of the gut with the type of IBS condition. This may be very useful in tailoring effective nutritional and other therapies to treat specific gastrointestinal problems.
J Molecular Diag. April 17 2019.[Epub ahead of print]


April 25, 2019
Influencing gene expression: Some people have genetic variations that predispose them to conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes. However, research indicates that habits like regular exercise and eating a healthful diet can affect whether or not disease-related genes express themselves.
Cell Metabolism. 11 April 2019. [Epub ahead of print]


April 29, 2019
Vitamin D and Disease Prevention: Concerns about the possible effects of low vitamin D status on a variety of health problems have grown exponentially during the past couple of decades. However, large well-designed studies are failing to find clear benefits from vitamin D supplementation for some conditions. A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine supplemented a large group of people over age 50 years for about 5 years and found that vitamin D supplementation at 2000 IU per day did not reduce the incidence of cancer or major cardiovascular events compared to treatment with a placebo.
N Engl J Med 2019; 380:33-44


April 30, 2019
Time-restricted Eating: In a study with 15 men at risk for diabetes, researchers found that limiting eating to a 9-hour period of time each day improved their blood glucose control following a test meal. It didn't seem to matter what time they started eating each day as long as they stopped eating by the end of nine hours.
Obesity. 2019;27(5):724-732.


May 11, 2019
Bevery Choice Affects Kidney Stone Risks: Although higher total fluid intake reduces the risk of kidney stone formation, the type of beverage you drink may matter. In a very large study of almost 200,000 people, those who consumed the most sugar sweetened sodas or punch type beverages were at increased risk of developing stones. Coffee, tea, orange juice, beer, and wine consumption were all associated with a decreased risk.
Clin J Am Soc Neph. August 2013, 8 (8) 1389-1395; DOI: https://doi.org/10.2215/CJN.11661112


May 23, 2019
Coffee and Cardiovascular Disease: A large study on over 300,000 people in the United Kingdom found that those consuming one to two cups of coffee a day had somewhat lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease than non-coffee drinkers, consumers of decaf, and those consuming six or more cups a day.
Am J Clin Nutr. 2019;109(3):509–516.


May 27, 2019
Low LDL, Triglycerides and Stroke Risk: High blood levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and triglycerides are commonly associated with increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, including stroke. However, a new study of over 27,000 middle-age women, followed for almost 20 years, found that those with very low LDL levels (< 70 mg/dL) and low triglyceride levels were about twice as likely to have a hemorrhagic stroke. What levels should be considered to be too low require additional research.
Neurology. 2019;92(19):e2286-e2294.


May 28, 2019
Cholesterol, Eggs, and Stroke: A study of almost 2000 middle-aged and older men in Finland, followed for over 20 years, found that neither egg nor cholesterol intakes were associated with stroke risk.
Am J Clin Nutr. 16 May 2019. [Epub ahead of print]


May 29, 2019
Vitamin B12 and Parkinson's Disease: Using multiple techniques, researchers demonstrated that vitamin B12 modulates the activity of a key enzyme involved in the cause of Parkinson's disease. These results support the need for a human study to investigate possible benefits of B12 supplementation in the prevention and treatment Parkinson's disease.
Cell Research. 2019;29:313–329.


June 10, 2019
Vitamin B12 and Parkinson's Disease: New research based on animal models and cellular-based studies indicates that vitamin B12 or related compounds could help to treat those with a specific gene modification associated with Parkinson's disease. Although this research is not ready for human application, it does suggest that some people with Parkinson's disease could benefit from a vitamin B12 supplement.
Cell Research. 2019;29:313–329.


June 12, 2019
Vitamin D and Cancer: A review of multiple studies on vitamin D supplementation found that taking a vitamin D supplement did not reduce the risk of developing cancer, but it did significantly lower risk of death from cancer.
J Clin Oncol. 2019;37:15_suppl, 1534-1534


June 22, 2019
Caffeine and Asthma: Consuming caffeine within an hour of exercise has been shown to reduce the symptoms of exercise-induced asthma. A dose of caffeine equivalent to two to six cups of coffee showed benefit.
Int J Sports Med. 2010 Apr;31(4):231-6.


July 1, 2019
Food Insecurity and Diabetes: New research reports that people experiencing food insecurity are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. It is thought that generalized inflammation and hormonal responses to stress play a role in increasing this risk.
J Nutr. 2019;149(6):982–988.


July 2, 2019
Vitamin D Status and Hypertension Risk: Research shows that low vitamin D status was associated with higher risk of elevated systolic blood pressure at birth. This relationship continues throughout childhood and into adulthood.
Hypertension, 2019; DOI: 10.1161/HYPERTENSIONAHA.119.13120


July 14, 2019
Children and Metabolic Syndrome: Metabolic syndrome is diagnosed when any three of the following are present: 1) excess body fat, 2) high blood triglycerides, 3) low HDL cholesterol, 4) high blood pressure, and 5) increased fasting blood glucose. Like adults, children who have these risk factors are more likely to develop fatty liver disease and diabetes.
Hawaii J Med Public Health. 2013 May;72(5):167-71.


July 18, 2019
Bile Acid Malabsorption: In normal intestinal function, bile is released from the gall bladder into the intestine to facilitate fat digestion. Most of the bile components are absorbed by the small intestine and recycled back to the liver. In some conditions like Crohn's disease, celiac disease, and after intestinal surgery and radiation treatment, bile acids in bile are not absorbed efficiently. This can cause diarrhea, frequent, watery stools, flatulence, bloating, etc. Over time, this also significantly reduces the absorption of important fat soluble nutrients and phytochemicals.
BMJ Open Gastroenterol. 2017;4(1):e000116.


July 25, 2019
DHA and Reduced Inflammation: The omega-3 fatty acid called DHA has been associated with reduced inflammation. New animal research is identifying the biochemical mechanisms involved in this action of DHA. This is likely to lead to more safe and effective ways to treat chronic pain.
Ann Neurol. 2013 Sep;74(3):490-5. doi: 10.1002/ana.23928. Epub 2013 Sep 4.


August 3, 2019
Skin and Food Allergies: A cause of food allergies is thought to be a breakdown in the integrity of the intestinal lining that allows potentially allergenic proteins to enter the body and affect immune function. Research indicates that conditions like eczema that compromise skin integrity may represent another route of entry for allergens.
J Invest Dermatol. 2014 Feb;134(2):345-350. doi: 10.1038/jid.2013.298. Epub 2013 Jul 18.


August 5, 2019
Vitamin A and Skin Cancer: A study that followed over 75,000 women in the Nurses’ Health Study for about 10 years, found that those with greater intakes of vitamin A and carotenoids had a significantly lower risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma, the second most common form of skin cancer. Other types of studies are needed to determine whether vitamin A supplementation can help to prevent this type of skin cancer.
JAMA Dermatol. July 31, 2019. [Online ahead of print]


August 8, 2019
Biotin and Thyroid: Taking biotin supplements has been shown to result in abnormal results on thyroid tests. Those being tested for thyroid function should avoid taking biotin supplements for about a week prior to testing.
Cureus. 2019 May 23;11(5):e4727.


August 9, 2019
Vitamin D and Diabetes: A study on people at high risk of diabetes or with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes, found that vitamin D supplementation (5000 IU/day) for six months significantly improved measures of insulin function and apparently slowed progression of the disease.
Eur J Endocrinology. 2019;181(3):287–299.


August 10, 2019
Nutrients for Prevention Does Not Equal Treatment: Foods and food components that show potential for preventing cancer are not necessarily beneficial during the treatment of cancer. A review of clinical trials reported that supplementation with vitamins C and E and beta carotene should not be used during chemotherapy.
J Natl Cancer Inst. 2008 Jun 4;100(11):773-83. doi: 10.1093/jnci/djn148. Epub 2008 May 27.


August 12, 2019
Increased Protein for Glycemic Control: Even without weight loss, research shows that a diet with reduced dietary carbohydrate, high protein and moderately increased fat can reduce average blood sugar as well as reduce liver fat.
Diabetologia (2019) pp 1–13. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00125-019-4956-4


August 16, 2019
Higher fat fish and Rheumatoid arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is a complex condition involving the immune system. One nutritional factor that is associated with significantly reduced risk of rheumatoid arthritis is weekly consumption of higher fat fish that provide the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids.
Ann Rheum Dis. August 2013. Volume 73, Issue 11


August 18, 2019
Caffeine and Non-alcoholic Liver: Caffeine consumption at doses comparable to two to four cups of coffee a day stimulates the liver to mobilize fat and to increase use of fat for energy needs. Overall, this reduces liver fat levels and is likely to benefit the treatment or prevention of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Hepatology. 2014 Apr;59(4):1366-80. doi: 10.1002/hep.26667. Epub 2014 Feb 18.


August 23, 2019
Psychotic Medication and Diabetes: A study of more than 28,000 children and youth between 6 and 24 years of age recently initiating the use of an anti-psychotic medication had a 3-fold greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes when compared to about 14,000 matched controls not taking these drugs for the same conditions. This risk was elevated within the first year of anti-psychotic drug use and increased with longer use.
JAMA Psychiatry. 2013;70(10):1067-1075. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2013.2053


August 24, 2019
Pancreatic Cancer and Foods: Pancreatic cancer is very aggressive and deadly. New research on pancreatic cancer cells indicates that a flavonoid called apigenin, that is found in foods such as celery, artichokes, and Mexican oregano, is likely to help prevent pancreatic cancer and may enhance treatment of the cancer when used in conjunction with chemotherapy.
Food Chem Toxicol. 2013 Oct;60:83-91. doi: 10.1016/j.fct.2013.07.036.


August 25, 2019
Diabetes and Intestinal Sweet Tooth: It appears that type 2 diabetes is not just a disorder of the pancreas and insulin function. Intestinal function also plays a role. Interestingly, sweet taste receptors in the intestine detect glucose and trigger a response that accelerates glucose absorption in diabetics more that healthy non-diabetics.
Diabetes. 2013 Oct;62(10):3532-41. doi: 10.2337/db13-0581.


August 27, 2019
Manganese and Parkinson's: Manganese is an essential nutrient for the human body. However, too much manganese exposure is known to cause changes in the brain that lead to Parkinson's disease-like symptoms. It is not entirely clear how much manganese is excessive. Complicating things is the observation that low iron status results in increased manganese absorption by the small intestine. Foods high in manganese include many whole grains, nuts, and legumes.
Science Signaling. 2019;12(572):eaau4543.


August 29, 2019
Tomatoes and Blood Pressure: A study comparing a complex of phytonutrients extracted from tomatoes to lycopene (also from tomatoes), found that the complex helped to lower blood pressure in people with hypertension. However, lycopene, by itself, did not.
Nutrients. 2019;11(5):950.


September 4, 2019
Fibromyalgia and Alcohol: Fibromyalgia is a poorly understood condition that causes chronic pain. Treatment typically focuses on pain management and lifestyle changes. A new study found that fibromyalgia sufferers who consume light to moderate amounts of alcohol have significantly lower fibromyalgia symptoms and better QOL compared those who consume no alcohol.
Arthritis Res Ther. 2013 Mar 15;15(2):R42. doi: 10.1186/ar4200.


September 7, 2019
Exercise-induced Asthma and Vitamin C: A condition called exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (previously called exercise-induced asthma) is a narrowing of the bronchial airways to the lungs that occurs in 10 to 50 percent of athletes, depending on the sport and environmental conditions. A review of three studies concludes that taking 500 to 2000 mg of vitamin C before exercise significantly reduces broncho-constriction and symptoms in those who suffer from this condition.
BMJ Open. 2013 Jun 20;3(6). pii: e002416. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2012-002416.


September 12, 2019
Vegetarian Diets and Cardiovascular Risks: A study that followed over 48,000 adults for about 18 years, found that those consuming vegetarian and vegan diets had a lower risk of heart attacks and a greater risk of strokes caused by blockage of blood vessels or bleeding into the brain.
BMJ 2019. 04 September. [Epub ahead of print]


September 25, 2019
Mouth Problems and Nutrient Deficiencies: Changes in the appearance of the tongue and inside of the mouth can be clues of nutrient deficiencies. An ongoing deficient intake of some B vitamins, vitamin C, or iron can cause a variety of signs and symptoms.
J Acad Nutr Diet. 2013;113:693-701.


October 15, 2019
HDL -Benefits and Risks: High levels of high density lipoprotein (HDL), also known as the "good cholesterol," are associated with a reduced risk of heart disease. High levels of HDL, however, are linked to an increased risk of breast cancer and to enhanced cancer aggressiveness. This HDL link with breast cancer is providing insights into understanding breast cancer development and new treatment targets.
Breast Cancer Res. 2013;15(5):R87.


October 20, 2019
Dietary Cholesterol and Blood Cholesterol: Research conducted nearly 50 years ago made it clear that the effect of dietary cholesterol on blood cholesterol is so small that it is almost immeasurable. This is the case in adolescents as well.
Nutr Hosp. 2013 May-Jun;28(3):868-77. doi: 10.3305/nh.2013.28.3.6392.


October 26, 2019
Vitamin D and Iron: A research study concludes that vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of anemia in children. This may be due to low iron status causing both the anemia and the low vitamin D status because activation of vitamin D in the liver is dependent on an adequate supply of iron.
J Pediatr. 2014 Jan;164(1):153-158.e1. doi: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2013.08.060. Epub 2013 Oct 8.


October 30, 2019
Alcohol and Stroke: Studies have found that the risk of coronary heart disease decreases with increasing alcohol consumption. However, when alcohol consumption exceeds moderate intake levels, the risk increases for other health problems such as strokes and various types of cancer
Acta Neurol Scand. 2013 Mar;127(3):186-91.


October 31, 2019
Vitamin C and Sepsis: Sepsis is a bodywide inflammation that develops as a serious complication in a variety of medical conditions. A new study found that treating sepsis with intravenous vitamin C significantly reduced the time patients spent in the hospital.
JAMA. 2019;322(13):1261.


November 6, 2019
Diabetes and Low-Carb Diet: When diabetics in group counseling received guidance on weight management with a low-carb diet, they experienced healthful weight loss, a substantial decrease in episodes of low blood glucose, and a decreased use of diabetes medications.
JAMA Intern Med. November 04, 2019. [Epub Ahead of Print]


November 11, 2019
Reducing Stroke Risk: Supplementation with three B vitamins (folate, B-6, and B-12) can help to reduce blood levels of a cardiovascular disease risk factor known as homocysteine. A review of 14 studies found that supplementation with these vitamins reduced the statistical risk of having a stroke by about seven percent.
Neurology. 2013 Oct 8;81(15):1298-307.


November 13, 2019
Vitamin A and Skin Cancer: A study of over 100,000 adults followed for over 26 years found that those with greater amounts of vitamin A in their diets were less likely to develop squamous cell carcinoma, the second-most-common type of skin cancer among people with fair skin. The study design can not establish a cause and effect relationship, but it does indicate that more carotenoids from colorful fruits and vegetables and total dietary vitamin A may help to prevent some skin cancers.
JAMA Dermatol. July 31, 2019. [Epub ahead of print]


November 14, 2019
Vitamin D and Melanoma: New research with a mouse model, indicates that vitamin D plays a role in fighting melanoma. Although vitamin D is not a cure for this cancer, it appears to be important to make sure vitamin D status is good in those being treated for melanoma.
Cancer Res. November 5 2019. [Epub ahead of print]


November 15, 2019
Pesticides and Cardiovascular Disease: The conclusions of a new study linking occupational pesticide exposure to increased risk of cardiovascular disease are questioned and critiqued by a prominent epidemiologist.
J Amer Heart Assoc. 2019;8:e012569.


November 17, 2019
Probiotics and Depression: Certain types of gut bacteria produce chemicals that can affect brain function. Researchers are exploring the use of certain types of probiotic bacteria that may be used in cultured foods such as yogurt to treat conditions like depression.
Biol Psychiatry. 2013 Nov 15;74(10):720-6.


November 20, 2019
Potassium and Artery Health: Very few Americans consume recommended levels of potassium. New research indicates that this could be directly involved with artery calcification (hardening of the arteries) and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Foods high in potassium include vegetables and fruits, especially potatoes and bananas, as well as milk products.
JCI Insight. 2017;2(19):e94920.


November 23, 2019
A study published in the British Medical Journal indicated that eating two or more servings of oily fish a week could reduce the risk of stroke.Fish oil supplements did not have the same beneficial effect.
BMJ. 2012 Oct 30;345:e6698. doi: 10.1136/bmj.e6698.


November 27, 2019
Diet and Hearing Loss: A study of over 3000 women found that those who consumed more healthful diets, based on three types of "healthy diets," were more likely to have less hearing loss during their later years of life than those who scored lower on these healthy eating scales.
Amer J Epidem. 14 October 2019. [Epub ahead of print]


November 30, 2019
Selenium and Immune Function: A study conducted in Africa found that HIV positive individuals significantly reduced the risk of immune decline and progression to AIDS when they took a multivitamin supplement with selenium in the early stages of HIV infection.
JAMA. 2013;310(20):2154-2163.


December 11, 2019
GERD and B12: Gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD or heartburn, is caused by acid-laden stomach contents passing from the stomach up into the lower part of the esophagus. The acid can seriously damage the esophagus when the condition becomes chronic. Common treatments that reduce stomach acid to protect the esophagus impair vitamin B-12 absorption. This makes vitamin B-12 supplementation an essential component of treatment.
JAMA. 2013;310(22):2435-2442.


December 16, 2019
Diet and Macular Degeneration: A new study found that a "Western pattern diet" may be a risk factor for the development of age-related macular degeneration. Although the study reports a weak association, it does point to the likely importance of a varied diet with adequate intake of essential nutrients, especially including the omega-3 fatty acids in fish oils and other food components such as various phytochemicals commonly found in fruits and vegetables.
Br J Ophthal. 06 December 2019.


December 19, 2019
Blood Pressure and Medications: New blood pressure guidelines from an expert panel recommend not using blood pressure-lowering medications with adults aged 60 or older unless their blood pressure exceeds 150/90. Current guidelines from other groups recommend treatment when blood pressure exceeds 140/90.
JAMA. 2014;311(5):507-520. doi:10.1001/jama.2013.284427


December 22, 2019
Iron and Heart Health: About 30 years ago, it was proposed that iron contributes to the development of atherosclerosis and heart disease. Solid support for this theory has been mixed at best. A new study conducted at UCLA with a mouse model found no support for the theory.
Cell Reports. 2013;5(5):1436-1442.


December 24, 2019
Magnesium and Heart Disease: A large study of over 150,000 women found that those with the lowest magnesium intake had the greatest risk of fatal coronary heart disease and sudden cardiac death. For adults over 30 years of age, 320 milligrams of magnesium per day is recommended for women and 420 mg for men. Foods rich in magnesium include spinach, most nuts and seeds, beans, whole grains, and dairy products.
J Women's Health. 12 Dec 2019. [Epub ahead of print]


December 30, 2019
Sodium and Health: A recent Institute of Medicine report states that excessive sodium intake can increase the risk for cardiovascular disease, but further indicated that present-day research does not support reducing daily sodium consumption below 2,300 milligrams. Overly low sodium intake may worsen conditions like diabetes and congestive heart failure.
Institute of Medicine. Sodium Intake in Populations (2013)


January 6, 2020
Vitamin E and Lung Function: Vitamin E comes in various forms such as alpha-tocopherol and gamma-tocopherol. A 20-year study of over 4500 adults found that those with higher blood levels of gamma-tocopherol were significantly more likely to have compromised lung function. Alpha tocopherol was associated with better lung function. Although this study does not prove a cause and effect relationship, it does suggest that including a variety of vegetable oils in the diet with an emphasis on those higher in alpha-tocopherol (like olive and sunflower oils) could be a good idea. 
Resp Res. 2014;15:31.


January 12, 2020
Fructose-Triglyceride Relationship: A review of studies on the effect of fructose on blood triglyceride levels concludes that substituting fructose for other forms of carbohydrate in the diet does not affect triglyceride levels. Like other sugars and starch, adding fructose in excess of calorie needs does raise post-meal triglyceride blood levels - an apparent risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Atherosclerosis. 2014;232(1):125 -133.


January 31, 2020
Eggs and Cardiovascular Risk: A study that reviewed data from three large population studies (including 50 countries across six continents) found that moderate egg intake (about one a day) was not associated with an increased risk of mortality or major cardiovascular disease.
Am J Clin Nutr. Jan 2020. [Epub ahead of print]


February 11, 2020
Cheese and Cardiovascular Disease: Researchers studied the effect of diets high in salt, with and without cheese, on vascular function in eleven adults (age 55 to 75) who did not have sodium-sensitive hypertension. They found that consuming about six ounces of dairy cheese per day as part of a high salt diet (5500 mg sodium/day) prevented the impaired arterial blood flow seen on a similar high salt diet without cheese.
J Nutr. 2020;150(1):55–63.


February 13, 2020
Is Celiac Disease Increasing? Some have suggested that the increased incidence of celiac disease may be due to an increase in the gluten content of wheat. However, an evaluation of this proposal indicates that the gluten in wheat has changed little during the past 50 years. Other causes of celiac disease are more likely and remain to be identified.
J Agric Food Chem. 2013 Feb 13;61(6):1155-9. doi: 10.1021/jf305122s. Epub 2013 Jan 31.


February 19, 2020
Chocolate and Arterial Function: A new study evaluated the effects of a chocolate beverage on arterial function in older people (average age of 72) with peripheral artery disease (PAD). PAD compromises leg muscle function and can impair normal walking. When participants consumed a chocolate beverage containing 15 grams of cocoa with 75 mgs of the flavanol compound epicatechin per day, leg arterial function and walking performance improved.
Circulation Research. 14 Feb 2020. [Epub ahead of print]


February 27, 2020
Applying Nutrition Research: Much of the nutrition research used to generate practical recommendation on what to eat is based on statistical associations among health problems and food and nutrient intake (epidemiology). Sorting out the contribution of various dietary factors to health outcomes can be very complex and possibly misleading. Well-controlled human feeding studies provide more specific and reliable results and are needed to help untangle controversy generated by epidemiological studies.
Ann Intern Med. Jan 28 2020. [Epub ahead of print]


March 2, 2020
Alcohol Producing Gut Bacteria: People diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) were found to be much more likely to have an alcohol-producing bacteria thriving in their lower intestine. This indicates that the colon microbiome may play a role in some cases of NAFLD by exposing the person to small, but relatively constant levels of alcohol. Since these bacteria use sugar to produce alcohol, components of the diet that carry more sugar to the lower intestine also may be a risk factor.
Cell Metab. 2019;30(4):675-688


March 6, 2020
Treating Celiac Disease: Using three different mouse models for celiac disease, researchers found that injections containing a nanoparticle of a key protein in gluten (gliadin) significantly reduced markers of immune system reactivity, inflammation, and tissue damage.
Gastroenterology. February 04, 2020. [Epub ahead of print]


March 29, 2020
Fiber and Stroke: Eight studies indicated that study participants who consumed diets higher in dietary fiber had a lower risk of having a stroke. It was not possible to determine if health benefits were due to fiber content or other substances present in high fiber foods.
Stroke. 2013 May;44(5):1360-8. doi: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.111.000151. Epub 2013 Mar 28


April 5, 2020
Fibromyalgia and Alcohol: Fibromyalgia syndrome is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread pain, diffuse tenderness, and other symptoms. Its cause is unknown and it is difficult to treat. In a recent study of people with fibromyalgia, low and moderate drinkers of alcohol reported a lower severity of symptoms than non-drinkers or heavy drinkers.
Arthritis Res Ther. 2013 Mar 15;15(2):R42. doi: 10.1186/ar4200.


April 6, 2020
Iron Deficiency and Postpartum Depression: The first several months of a baby's life can be a period of great joy for a mother. However, this postpartum period also carries a high risk of postpartum depression for new mothers. This condition may be preventable in many cases because it is potentially caused by postpartum iron deficiency that occurs in almost 50 percent of the women in some racial/ethnic groups.
Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2005 Jul;193(1):36-44.


April 15, 2020
Beet juice and Blood Pressure Control: Looking for a natural way to lower blood pressure? A new study found that the high nitrate content of beetroot juice can lower blood pressure by about 10 mm Hg.
Hypertension. 2013;61:1091–1102


April 20, 2020
Red Meat and Health Risk: Dietary recommendations often recommend reducing red meat and processed meat consumption based on statistical associations between dietary variables and health/disease. A recent evaluation of the research on this subject generated this recommendation, emphasizing the weakness of the statistical associations: "The panel suggests that adults continue current unprocessed red meat consumption (weak recommendation, low-certainty evidence). Similarly, the panel suggests adults continue current processed meat consumption (weak recommendation, low-certainty evidence)."
Ann Intern Med. 2019;171(10):756-764.


May 3, 2020
Beverage Type Matters: Although higher total fluid intake reduces the risk of kidney stone formation, the type of beverage you drink may matter. In a very large study of almost 200,000 people, those who consumed the most sugar sweetened sodas or punch type beverages were at increased risk of developing stones. Coffee, tea, orange juice, beer, and wine consumption were all associated with a decreased risk.
CJASN August 2013, 8 (8) 1389-1395; DOI: https://doi.org/10.2215/CJN.11661112


May 4, 2020
Gout Treatment: Vitamin C supplements have been proposed as a complementary treatment for gout. However, a recent 8-week study found that 500 mg per day of vitamin C did not significantly lower blood uric acid levels, a major cause of gout. Other studies have reported small beneficial effects, but nothing comparable to benefits of the commonly used drug, allopurinol.
Arthritis Rheum. 2013 Jun;65(6):1636-42. doi: 10.1002/art.37925.


May 5, 2020
COVID-19 and Selenium: Researchers studied districts in China that had high or low levels of selenium in the soils and, therefore, in most of the foods they consumed. They found that COVID-19 victims in the high selenium locations had higher cure rates and lower death rates than those in the low selenium areas.
Am J Clin Nutr. 28 April 2020. [Epub ahead of print]


May 8, 2020
Vitamin D and COVID-19: Vitamin D has been linked with better respiratory health. A new study of 20 European countries found that countries with lower average levels of vitamin D status had more COVID-19 cases and higher COVID-19 mortality rates, More study is needed to determine if there is a cause and effect relationship. 
Aging Clin Exp Res. 30 March 2020.


May 18, 2020
Tracking Vitamin C: Intravenous vitamin C has become a potential part of treatment for some cancers. New research provides a likely method to track the levels of vitamin C in the body following infusion of the vitamin. This may help to adjust proper dosage during treatment.
Sci Rep 8, 1560 (2018).


May 19, 2020
COVID-19 and Vitamin D: There is limited, but growing evidence that good vitamin D status may help with recovery from COVID-19. Although there certainly are no guarantees, maintaining an adequate intake of all essential nutrients is likely protective.
Eur J Clin Nutr. May 2020.


June 6, 2020
Weight Loss and Gallstones: It is well known that dieting increases the risk of developing gallstones. A new study found that extreme calorie restriction (500 calories a day for six to ten weeks) was more than three times as likely to cause gallstones than a diet providing 1,200 to 1,500 calories a day
International Journal of Obesity volume 38, pages279–284(2014)


June 13, 2020
Restless Leg Syndrome and Longevity: Restless leg syndrome (RLS) can be irritating and compromise the quality and quantity of sleep. New research indicates that men with RLS have an increased risk of dying earlier than normal. The potential cause remains to be determined.
Neurology . 2013 Jul 2;81(1):52-9. doi: 10.1212/WNL.0b013e318297eee0


July 14, 2020
Many chronic health problems are associated with chronic inflammation. Evidence continues to grow that the omega-3 fatty acid in fish oil known as DHA helps to reduce inflammation. New research is getting closer to understanding how this works.
FASEB J . 2013 Jul;27(7):2573-83. doi: 10.1096/fj.13-227728. Epub 2013 Mar 15.


July 16, 2020
Fatty Liver in Children: Metabolic syndrome is diagnosed when any three of the following are present: 1) excess body fat, 2) high blood triglycerides, 3) low HDL cholesterol, 4) high blood pressure, and 5) increased fasting blood glucose. Like adults, children who have these risk factors are more likely to develop fatty liver disease and diabetes.
Hawaii J Med Public Health . 2013 May;72(5):167-71.


July 20, 2020
Caffeine, Exercise, and Asthma Prevention: Consuming caffeine within an hour of exercise has been shown to reduce the symptoms of exercise-induced asthma. A dose of caffeine equivalent to two to six cups of coffee showed benefit.
Int J Sports Med . 2010 Apr;31(4):231-6. doi: 10.1055/s-0030-1247592


July 23, 2020
Dietary Cholesterol Does Not Equal Blood Cholesterol: Although research conducted during the past 50 years has repeatedly demonstrated that dietary cholesterol has little or no effect on blood cholesterol levels, yet another study confirms this in adolescents.
Nutrición Hospitalaria, 2013; 28:868-877


September 7, 2020
Fibromyalgia and Alcohol: Fibromyalgia is a poorly understood condition that causes chronic pain. Treatment typically focuses on pain management and lifestyle changes. Research has found that fibromyalgia sufferers who consume light to moderate amounts of alcohol have significantly lower fibromyalgia symptoms and better QOL compared those who consume no alcohol.
Arthritis Res Ther. 2013 Mar 15;15(2):R42.


November 5, 2020
Importance of B-vitamins for heart health: Supplementation with three B vitamins (folate, B-6, and B-12) can help to reduce blood levels of a cardiovascular disease risk factor known as homocysteine. A review of 14 studies found that supplementation with these vitamins reduced the statistical risk of having a stroke by about seven percent.
Neurology. 2013 Oct 8;81(15):1298-307.


December 3, 2020
Sleep Quality and Gut Microbiota: A recent mouse study revealed that there is a relationship between the gut microbiota and sleep/wake regulation. Understanding more about this relationship has the potential to improve sleep-related problems such as daytime sleepiness and insomnia.
Scientific Reports, 2020; 10 (1) DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-76562-9