Supplements, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Vitamin K / 04.12.2024

Be sure to discuss your specific use of vitamins and supplements with your health care provider.  Vitamins and supplements may have side effects and/or interfere with other medications. Vitamins and supplements may also be toxic in higher doses. Over-the-counter vitamins and supplements may not be FDA approved or contain inaccurate labeling information. Every cell, every organ and every function in our bodies depends on nutrients. From supporting the immune system to keeping bones strong, stabilising energy levels and even enhancing mental clarity, vitamins and minerals are essential for us to function properly. But even with a balanced diet, ensuring we get all the nutrients we need can be a challenge. The rise of processed foods, long storage times and agricultural practices, leave gaps in what we eat. The ideal multivitamin formula can vary significantly by gender and age, as different groups have unique nutritional needs. The best multivitamin for men will typically include ingredients that provide additional support for heart health and muscle function, such as supplements with higher levels of vitamin E and magnesium. Ingredients such as coenzyme Q10, which is known to support cardiovascular health, and lycopene, which benefits prostate health, are also found in some products. Particularly important for women are nutrients such as folate and biotin that are important for reproductive health and for hair, skin and nails. The best multivitamin for women may also include iron, especially for those who may have higher needs due to menstruation. For the elderly, the focus is on nutrients that compensate for the natural decline in absorption and physiological changes. For example, what is the best multivitamin for a 70-year-old woman? Probably one with higher levels of vitamin B12 and vitamin D. Formulas for older people are also often gentle on the stomach and designed for better absorption, making them suitable for sensitive digestive systems. (more…)
Gastrointestinal Disease, Microbiome, Probiotics, Supplements, Weight Research / 03.12.2024

Editor's note:  Please consult with your health care provider before using any supplements including probiotics. Side effects are uncommon but may occur. The connection between the gut and the brain is one of the most fascinating areas of research in recent years, with scientists uncovering how the microbiome—the trillions of microorganisms residing in our digestive system—can affect not just our digestion and immune system but also our feelings of hunger and satiety. As the science behind the gut-brain axis continues to unfold, it’s becoming increasingly clear that the health of our gut microbiome plays a pivotal role in regulating appetite, food intake, and body weight. Understanding the intricate relationship between gut health and appetite regulation has profound implications for combating obesity, overeating, and eating-related disorders. In this article, we’ll explore how the microbiome influences hunger, the role it plays in appetite regulation, and what you can do to optimize gut health for better control over your hunger and eating habits. We will also look at products which aim to support a healthy microbiome and improve overall well-being.

The Gut-Brain Axis: A Two-Way Communication

The gut-brain axis refers to the bidirectional communication between the gastrointestinal system (gut) and the brain. This connection is facilitated by the vagus nerve, immune pathways, and hormones, which allow the gut and brain to send signals back and forth. Recent research has shown that gut bacteria play a significant role in this communication, influencing not only digestion but also emotions, mental health, and, importantly, appetite regulation. The microbiome, composed of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms, affects the brain’s perception of hunger and fullness through the production of various chemicals, including neurotransmitters, hormones, and metabolites. These signals impact brain regions that control appetite, cravings, and food intake. (more…)
Cognitive Issues, Supplements / 28.11.2024

Editor's note: Most Nootropics are not FDA tested or approved. Supplements, including those sold as cognitive enhancers, may have side effects. Please do not take nootropic medications or supplements without discussing with your health care provider first. Have you ever wished for a way to sharpen your focus, improve your memory, or simply stay mentally clear throughout the day? Nootropics, often referred to as "cognitive enhancers," might be the solution you've been curious about. These supplements are gaining popularity among students, professionals, and anyone looking for that extra edge in mental performance. But how exactly do they work, and are they right for you? What Are Nootropics? Nootropics are substances—either natural or synthetic—that are designed to enhance cognitive functions like memory, creativity, and focus. Some of these might be things you’re already familiar with, like caffeine, while others are lesser-known compounds or herbal extracts. A defining feature of nootropics from the likes of Simply Nootropics is that they are thought to support brain function without causing significant side effects. They’re not about forcing your brain into overdrive but rather optimising its natural processes. (more…)
OBGYNE, Supplements / 22.11.2024

Editor's note:  Most supplements, including  lactoferrin, are not FDA approved or tested and therefore should be used only under the supervision of your health care provider. Pregnancy is an incredible journey, but it also brings its share of challenges, including keeping your immune system strong. Your immune system works overtime to protect both you and your growing baby, which makes it even more important to give it the support it needs. By adopting healthy habits and incorporating the right nutrients into your diet, you can boost your immune health and reduce the risks of common infections or illnesses during pregnancy. Here are 10 practical tips to strengthen your immune system while ensuring the safety and well-being of your little one.

1. Add Lactoferrin to Your Routine

A lactoferrin supplement  is a natural protein found in milk and other fluids that boosts immunity by supporting healthy gut bacteria and reducing inflammation. It also helps your body absorb iron more effectively, which is crucial during pregnancy. Before taking any supplements be sure to consult your healthcare provider. Lactoferrin is a dairy product and should not be taken in the case of suspected or diagnosed allergy to cow's milk proteins. (more…)
Aging, Supplements / 18.11.2024

Editor’s note: NADH is not the same as  niacin, niacinamide, or nicotinamide riboside.  Please discuss the use of NAD⁺ with your health care provider before use and if you are taking long term.  NAD⁺ supplements are not FDA tested and may vary between formulations.  There are no studies of NAD⁺ in children, pregnancy, breast feeding or those planning to become pregnant. The efficacy and long term safety of NAD⁺ has not been definitively determined. Products discussed have not been independently verified. In the ever-growing world of longevity research, one name that has gained significant attention is Nicotine Mononucleotide (NMN). This compound, once considered just a minor player in biochemistry, has become the focal point of discussions about aging, healthspan, and the potential to reverse age-related cellular decline. Dr. David Sinclair, a leading scientist in the field of aging and professor at Harvard Medical School, debuted NMN to a wider audience during his appearance on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast. Since then, interest in NMN has skyrocketed, with many wondering: Can this molecule really slow down or even reverse the aging process? In this article, we’ll delve into the science behind NMN, explore its potential as an anti-aging molecule, and discuss how you can incorporate it into your daily routine.

What is NMN?

Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) is a naturally occurring compound found in all living cells. It is a derivative of niacin (Vitamin B3) and plays a crucial role in the production of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+), a coenzyme that is essential for life. NAD+ is involved in numerous fundamental cellular processes, including energy production, DNA repair, and maintenance of cellular health. However, as we age, our NAD+ levels decline, leading to a range of cellular dysfunctions that contribute to aging and age-related diseases. Dr. David Sinclair, in his extensive research on aging, discovered that boosting NAD+ levels could have profound implications for slowing down the aging process. Since NMN is a direct precursor to NAD+, it is believed that supplementing with NMN could effectively restore NAD+ levels and support the body’s natural repair mechanisms. (more…)
Lifestyle & Health, Supplements / 26.09.2024

    Have you ever wondered why some people seem to effortlessly maintain their weight while others struggle? The answer often lies in a complex process called metabolism. It is essentially the rate at which your body burns calories. It's influenced by various factors, including genetics, age, and lifestyle choices. Understanding this is important for achieving and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. When your metabolism is working efficiently, your body can burn calories at a healthy rate, supporting weight management and overall well-being. In this blog, we will explore the intricate relationship between metabolism and healthy living. (more…)
Complementary Medicine, Prostate, Supplements / 23.09.2024

Editor's note:  This article discusses supplements, which in no way are intended to substitute for professional medical care and regular prostate cancer screening.  Supplements are generally not FDA tested or approved. Some supplements can interfere with medications and/or cause side effects. Do not delay seeking medical attention for prostate concerns by taking supplements without medical advice. Please discuss any and all supplements you take with your health care provider and be sure to follow your provider's recommendations for your prostate and overall health. As men age, maintaining good prostate health becomes a top priority. The prostate, a small gland located below the bladder, plays a significant role in male reproductive health. However, many men face challenges related to this vital organ, especially as they get older. Fortunately, natural supplements can help support prostate health and overall well-being. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of these supplements, how they work, and how you can incorporate them into your lifestyle. Before we begin, it's essential to remember that supplements like Prostovit are among many that can help, but they should always be used as part of a holistic approach to health.   Prostate gland supplements

Why Prostate Health is Important

The prostate is crucial for producing seminal fluid, which helps transport sperm during ejaculation. Over time, the prostate may enlarge, leading to conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or even develop into more severe conditions like prostate cancer. Prostate health directly impacts urinary function and quality of life, making it a critical aspect of men’s health that shouldn’t be ignored. Symptoms such as frequent urination, especially at night, difficulty starting or stopping urination, and weak urine flow are common indicators of prostate issues. Addressing these symptoms early with lifestyle changes and natural supplements may prevent more serious complications in the future. (more…)
Lifestyle & Health, Nutrition, Supplements / 29.07.2024

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is pivotal for long-term health and happiness. It's about making consistent, beneficial choices that match your needs and goals. This can be a challenging task in today's busy world, but it's certainly achievable with the right set of strategies. You can enhance your quality of life by balancing your nutrition, staying active, managing stress, and getting quality sleep. Keep reading to discover practical tips to guide you toward wellness.

Embracing Balanced Nutrition for Sustained Well-being

embracing-balanced-nutrition.jpgA balanced diet is the cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle. Incorporating various foods from all the food groups ensures that your body gets the nutrients it needs. Increasing the intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats contributes to better health and helps prevent chronic diseases. Understanding portion sizes and the significance of moderation can prevent overeating and weight gain. It is also important to stay hydrated throughout the day. Water supports metabolic processes and helps eliminate waste. Knowing your body's calorie and nutritional requirements is crucial for maintaining a balanced diet. If you're unsure where to begin, seeking guidance from a registered dietitian can be a great starting point. For wellness products and nutritional supplements, SkinnyFit offers quality, all-natural health and wellness products—visit skinnyfit.com to explore their range. Lastly, preparing your meals can give you more control over the ingredients and help you stick to a nutritious diet. Planning can also prevent impulsive decisions leading to unhealthy eating habits. (more…)
Supplements / 23.07.2024

supplements-herbalmedicineIn recent years, the interest in herbal supplements has surged. Many people are turning to these natural alternatives to improve their health and well-being. But what role do herbal supplements play in modern medicine? Are they truly effective, or just a trend? In this article, we'll explore the intersection of herbal supplements and modern medicine, uncovering the benefits, risks, and scientific perspectives on this growing phenomenon. Please remember most herbal medications and supplements are not FDA approved or tested. Many have side effects especially in combination with other medications or supplements.  Please consult with your health care provider before taking any supplements you are considering taking and be aware of potential side effects. Supplements should not be used during pregnancy or while nursing without the express permission of your health care provider.

A Brief History of Herbal Medicine

Herbal medicine has been around for thousands of years. Ancient civilizations like the Egyptians, Chinese, and Greeks used plants to treat various ailments. In fact, many of today's pharmaceuticals have their roots in herbal remedies. For instance, aspirin was derived from willow bark, and digitalis, used to treat heart conditions, comes from the foxglove plant. Despite the rise of synthetic drugs, herbal medicine never entirely disappeared. Instead, it evolved, and are widely available today at both brick and mortar stores to online platforms like Pravdao.sk. Today, we see a blend of ancient wisdom and modern science in the world of herbal supplements.

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Aging, Alzheimer's - Dementia, Author Interviews, Supplements / 01.03.2023

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Christopher R. Martens PhD Assistant Professor Director, Delaware Center for Cognitive Aging Research Department of Kinesiology & Applied Physiology University of Delaware Newark, DE MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: One of the main issues with Alzheimer's disease is an impaired ability to make energy in the brain. NAD+ is critically involved in the creation of energy within cells and there is strong evidence that nicotinamide riboside (NR), a precursor to NAD+, can restore brain function in mice that exhibit similar characteristics as people with Alzheimer's disease. We had previously studied the effects of NR in healthy older adults and wanted to see whether it is even capable of getting into brain tissue. We used remaining blood samples from our original study and measured the amount of NAD+ within tiny "vesicles" in the blood that we are quite confident originated from the brain and other neural tissue (more…)
Author Interviews, Heart Disease, JACC, Supplements / 06.12.2022

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Simin Liu MD MPH ScD Professor of Epidemiology at the School of Public Health, Professor of Medicine (Endocrinology) and Professor of Surgery at the Alpert School of Medicine Brown University MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Our research team has been researching the roles of environmental and genetic determinants of chronic diseases for nearly three decades, with special emphasis on evaluating micronutrients, minerals, and trace elements in relation to cardiometabolic outcomes, and findings of which have contributed to the design of several large, randomized trials of dietary supplements in the US (Liu JAMA 1999; 2011; Diabetes Care 2005a,b; Diabetes 2006).  Several large intervention trials have consistently shown beneficial effects on clinical cardiometabolic outcomes of a diet pattern rich in micronutrients, although research on micronutrient supplementation has mainly focused on the health effects of a single or a few vitamins and minerals. We decided to take a comprehensive and systematic approach to evaluate all the publicly available/accessible studies reporting all micronutrients including phytochemicals and antioxidant supplements and their effects on cardiovascular risk factors as well as multiple CVDs. (more…)
Aging, Author Interviews, Brigham & Women's - Harvard, Frailty, Geriatrics, JAMA, Medical Research Centers, Supplements / 15.09.2022

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Ariela Orkaby, MD, MPH Geriatrics & Preventive Cardiology Associate Epidemiologist Division of Aging, Brigham and Women's Hospital Assistant Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: As the population is living longer, there is increased risk of frailty and vulnerability. Frailty is defined as reduced physiological reserve and decreased ability to cope with even an acute stress. Up to half of adults over the age of 85 are living with frailty and preventative measures are greatly needed. We tested the effect of vitamin D and marine omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on the risk of developing frailty in healthy older adults in the US enrolled in the VITamin D and OmegA-3 TriaL (VITAL) trial. (more…)
Author Interviews, Brigham & Women's - Harvard, Heart Disease, JAMA, Lung Cancer, Supplements, USPSTF / 30.06.2022

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Michael J. Barry, M.D Director of the Informed Medical Decisions Program Health Decision Sciences Center Massachusetts General Hospital. Professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School Dr. Barry was appointed as Vice Chair of USPSTF in March 2021. He previously served as a member from January 2017 through December 2020.   MedicalResearch.com:  What is the background for this study?  What are the main findings? Response: The Task Force looked at the use of vitamin and mineral supplementation specifically for the prevention of heart disease, stroke, and cancer. We found that there is not enough evidence to recommend for or against taking multivitamin supplements, nor the use of single or paired nutrient supplements, to prevent these conditions. However, we do know that you should not take vitamin E or beta-carotene for this purpose. (more…)
Author Interviews, Brigham & Women's - Harvard, Cancer Research, Chocolate, Heart Disease, Supplements / 16.03.2022

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Howard D. Sesso, ScD, MPH Associate Professor of Medicine Division of Preventive Medicine Brigham and Women's Hospital MedicalResearch.com:  What is the background for this study? How does the amount of flavanols in the study arm compare to what might be obtained in a typical diet? Response: The COcoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS) is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial that tested the effects of two promising dietary supplements on cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer in 21,442 older adults. Cocoa flavanols have been shown to have favorable vascular effects in small and short-term clinical trials. The 500 mg/day flavanols tested in COSMOS exceeds that readily obtained in the diet typically from cocoa, tea, grapes, and berries. Of note, flavanol content in not typically listed on food labels. COSMOS also tested a multivitamin, the most common dietary supplement taken by US adults and previously linked with a potential modest reduction in cancer in a previous long-term trial of men conducted by our research group at the Division of Preventive Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. (more…)
Author Interviews, Cancer Research, Nutrition, Supplements / 06.01.2022

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Dr Rana Conway PhD RNutr  Research Fellow Energy Balance & Cancer Group, and Obesity Research Group Research Department of Behavioural Science and Health University College London    MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: We’ve seen great advances in cancer diagnosis and treatment in recent years which means the number of people living with and beyond a cancer diagnosis is rapidly increasing. The WCRF and CRUK recommend improving diet and exercise to reduce the risks of cancer coming back but we know anecdotally that supplements are sometimes seen as an easier option, and people who’ve had cancer are often interested to know if they should be taking any supplements.    (more…)
Author Interviews, Nutrition, Supplements, UCSD / 14.01.2020

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Kellogg Parsons, MD, MHS Professor of Urology Moores UC San Diego Comprehensive Cancer Center MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Clinical guidelines for prostate cancer, circulated widely in the public domain, endorse the consumption of diets high in micronutrient-enriched vegetables. Drawing on expert opinion, epidemiological studies, and small preclinical experiments, these recommendations propose that vegetable-enriched diets may decrease cancer progression and death among prostate cancer survivors. However, data from randomized clinical trials focused on actionable clinical endpoints has been lacking. We utilized a specific behavioral intervention, grounded in the field of social psychology, to “nudge” patients with prostate cancer toward healthier food choices. The intervention is telephone-based, like a call center: patient-focused, convenient, and simple. (more…)
Author Interviews, Fertility, NIH, Supplements / 08.01.2020

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Enrique Schisterman, Ph.D. Chief, Epidemiology Branch, DIPHR Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development NICHD MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Small studies indicated that zinc and folic acid supplements for men might improve semen quality as both zinc and folic acid are involved in DNA transcription and have antioxidant functions. But no large-scale randomized trials have been done to assess efficacy, which is important since dietary supplements are largely unregulated, and FDA cannot regulate supplements until after they come to market. Some male fertility-targeted supplements are already among the most commonly sold supplement products, despite the lack of data to guide their use.  (more…)
Author Interviews, Diabetes, Supplements / 08.01.2020

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Jonathan P. Little PhD Associate Professor Canadian Institutes of Health Research New Investigator Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research Scholar Faculty of Health and Social Development School of Health and Exercise Sciences The University of British Columbia Syilx Okanagan Nation Territory Kelowna, BC  Canada MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Ketones are energy-yielding molecules that are bodies naturally produce during periods of starvation or when we restrict carbohydrate intake. Recently, scientists from Oxford and the NIH have created exogenous ketone supplements, which now enable us to be able to drink ketones. This puts our body into a unique state – we can consume a drink that raises blood levels of ketones without having to starve or restrict carbohydrate intake. Some are even touting ketone supplements as a “fourth macronutrient”. Ketone supplements are primarily marketed for athletes to provide an alternative fuel for improving endurance exercise performance. We were actually studying how ketone supplements impacted exercise performance when we noticed that they consistently lowered blood glucose after participants consumed them. We went to the literature and found some classic papers where it was shown that infusing ketones did in fact lower glucose and the mechanism seemed to involve reducing liver glucose output. This was very exciting to us because we also study type 2 diabetes, a condition where blood sugars are too high and elevated liver glucose output is one of the major reasons. So we came up with the hypothesis that ketone supplements might be a unique strategy to help with blood glucose control. In the recent study, we tested this out in a randomized crossover experiment in 15 participants with overweight/obesity who were at risk for type 2 diabetes. Participants drank the ketone monoester supplement or a placebo and 30 minutes later they consumed an oral glucose tolerance test drink containing 75 grams of sugar. Blood samples were collected for 2 hours after the glucose test drink. (more…)
Author Interviews, Brigham & Women's - Harvard, Cognitive Issues, JAMA, Supplements / 16.12.2019

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Pieter A. Cohen, MD Department of Medicine, Cambridge Health Alliance Somerville, Massachusetts Harvard Medical School Boston, Massachusetts MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: There has been increasing interest in the use of over-the-counter supplements to help improve memory and cognitive function.  However, prior studies have suggested that these types of supplements might contain unapproved investigational drugs. (more…)
Annals Internal Medicine, Author Interviews, Supplements, Vitamin C, Vitamin D / 09.07.2019

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Safi U. Khan, MD Department of Internal Medicine Robert Packer Hospital Sayre, PA 18840  MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: There is substantial body of observational data favoring use of vitamins, supplements and special diets for improving cardiovascular health. However, such type of data is limited by various biases. Randomized controlled trial (RCT) is considered gold standard to evaluate effects of a therapy.  (more…)
Author Interviews, Heart Disease, Supplements / 31.05.2019

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:

Lu Qi, MD, PhD, FAHA MD, PhD, FAHA HCA Regents Distinguished Chair and Professor Director, Tulane University Obesity Research Center Department of Epidemiology Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine New Orleans, LA 70112 

MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: There is evidence from previous experimental studies or cross-sectional analyses in humans linking glucosamine and a variety potentially protective effects such as improving lipids, inhibiting inflammation, and mimic a low-carb diet.   (more…)
Author Interviews, Hip Fractures, JAMA, Supplements / 13.05.2019

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Prof. Haakon E Meyer, PhD Department of Public Health and Global Health Norwegian Institute of Public Health Oslo, Norway MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings? Response: The use of high dose vitamin supplementation is popular in parts of the population, often without any clear indication and in the absence of clear evidence of benefit. However, side effects can occur, and in a previous published secondary analysis of double blinded randomized controlled trials, we found to our surprise an increased risk of hip fracture in those supplemented with high doses of vitamin B6 in combination with vitamin B12. This finding was re-assessed in the current study employing data from the large observational Nurses' Health Study. As in the previous study, we found that a combined high intake of vitamin B6 and B12 was associated with increased risk of hip fracture. (more…)