heart disease

Vitamin D Linked to Cholesterol Levels and Cardiovascular Risk

A new study found a Vitamin D deficiency could be associated with a higher ratio of total cholesterol to HDL in addition to lower levels of HDL-cholesterol.  This higher ratio of total cholesterol to HDL has been associated with increased cardiovascular risks more than those seen with other cholesterol measures like LDL-cholesterol (often called bad…

Fish Oil

Fish Oil Asthma Benefits May Be Blocked By Medication

Although it has been seen that supplementation with Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids could lessen allergic reactions and asthma symptoms by reducing the production of antibodies, researchers believe that these benefits may be hampered by asthma medication. Cell cultures from 17 Asthma patients were used.  Researchers found that introducing Omega-3 Essential Fatty acids could reduce the…

Heart

Clinical Benefits: Could Vitamin C Lower Risks After Heart Surgery?

A new meta-analysis has found supplementing with Vitamin C after heart surgery can help lower the risks of developing atrial fibrillation.  Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular heart rhythm which oftentimes results in a rapid heartbeat.  AFib is not uncommon and can lead to serious complications like heart failure and stroke.  AFib can be triggered…

Cognitive Function

Vitamin A Status At Birth Linked to Long-Term Risk of Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer’s

A new study has found elderly individuals with low Vitamin A levels may be more at risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease along with lower brain functioning.  Additionally the study found the even a marginal Vitamin A deficiency at birth might affect long-term risk factors. This new study was made up of findings from mouse models…

Omega 3

Two-Thirds of Middle-Aged German Women Have Low Omega-3: Increased Risk of Heart Disease

A new German population study has found over 70% of middle-aged women have low Omega-3 levels increasing their risk of heart disease. Data from over 400 middle aged women who had taken part in a larger cross-sectional, nationwide multicenter study (VitaMinFemin) was analyzed.  The original study which was designed to determine the status of selected…

Infant Cognition

Micronutrient Supplementation For Mothers Boosts Infant Cognitive Health

A major follow up study has determined pregnant women should take more micronutrients besides iron and folic acid to increase the long-term cognitive development of their children. The Supplementation with Multiple Micronutrients Intervention Trial (SUMMIT) lasted from 2001 – 2004.  Over 31,000 pregnant women participated in this study.  The study goals were to determine if…