Acknoledgements to Nutri Supplement
New research from Japan shows soy isoflavone supplements may help to support bone health and blood sugar metabolism.
The double-blind study involved 56 healthy post-menopausal women aged between 47 and 70. The women were randomly assigned to receive an isoflavone-rich soybean soup, or placebo soup for 4 weeks. Isoflavones are well known phytoestrogens - active substances derived from plants that have a weak oestrogen-like action.
The researchers found that isoflavone levels significantly increased in the urine after 4 weeks of supplementation, compared to placebo. The increases occurred in combination with an increase in the excretion of deoxypyridinoline (a marker of bone resorption). Levels of osteocalcin (a marker of bone formation) were significantly increased after 4 weeks.
"Those results indicate that four-week intake of fermented soybeans improves bone metabolism in post-menopausal women by attenuating the excessive enhancement of bone resorption as well as by promoting bone formation." wrote lead author Mari Mori from Mukogawa Women's University Institute for World Health Development.
"In this study, we did not measure bone mineral density, as the ingestion period was relatively short. However, such a daily intake of fermented soybean, if continued, is expected to improve bone metabolism and to contribute to the primary prevention of osteoporosis."
The researchers also added that blood levels of insulin were significantly lower after four weeks of supplementation, compared to placebo, while blood sugar (glucose) levels were similar between the groups. "These results suggest that four-week intake of fermented soybeans improves insulin resistance in post-menopausal women whose isoflavone intake was restricted."
Source: Geriatrics & Gerontology InternationalVolume 8, Supplement 1, Pages S8-S15, doi:10.1111/j.1447-0594.2007.00399.x
"Isoflavones as Putative Anti-aging Food Factors in Asia and Effects of Isoflavone Aglycone-rich Fermented Soybeans on Bone and Glucose Metabolisms in Post-menopausal Women"
Authors: M. Mori, Y. Okabe, H. Tanimoto, T. Shimazu, H. Mori, Y. Yamori
____________________
New Research Shows Promise for Vitamin D Protection against Type 1 Diabetes
A review in the Archives of Disease in Childhood, which looked at data from five observational studies, has reported that infants who received vitamin D supplements were 29 per cent less likely to develop type 1 diabetes than non-supplemented infants. "However, for concrete conclusions to be reached, adequately powered, randomised controlled trials with long periods of follow-up would be required to establish causality and the best formulation, dose, duration and period of supplementation," said Christos Zipitis from the NHS Foundation Trust (Stockport) and Anthony Akobeng from the Central Manchester and Manchester Children's University Hospitals.
Type 1 diabetes is thought to be an auto- immune disease which affects the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Once the pancreas has been damaged, this results in an inability to produce any insulin and as a direct consequence patients cannot control blood sugar levels without medication.
In addition to an approximate 30 per cent reduction in the risk of developing type-1 diabetes, the researchers noted "some evidence of a dose-response effect, with those using higher amounts of vitamin D being at lower risk of developing type 1 diabetes."
The researchers also noted that timing of the supplementation could be a factor in the type-1 diabetes risk, with vitamin D supplementation between the ages of seven and 12 months at a 45 per cent lower risk, compared to infants supplemented between 0 and six months of age.
Scientists are calling for randomised controlled trials to further explore the potential benefits of vitamin D supplementation.
This study follows on from the research carried out at the University of Colorado, which reported that omega-3 fatty acids may reduce a child's risk of developing type 1 diabetes by 55 per cent. On the back of this study, a newly established clinical trial, called "The Nutritional Intervention for the Prevention of Type 1 Diabetes," is testing if dietary supplementation with anti-inflammatory doses of DHA during pregnancy and infancy could inhibit early onset of inflammatory events key to the development of type-1 diabetes.
Sources: Archives of Disease in Childhood (British Medical Journal)Published online ahead of print, doi:10.1136/adc.2007.128579"Vitamin D supplementation in early childhood and risk of type 1 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis"Authors: C.S. Zipitis and A.K. Akobeng
Journal of the American Medical Association26 September 2007, Volume 298, Number 12, Pages 1420-1428"Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Intake and Islet Autoimmunity in Children at Increased Risk for Type 1 Diabetes"Authors: Jill M. Norris, X. Yin, M.M. Lamb, K. Barriga, J. Seifert, M. Hoffman, H.D. Orton, A.E. Baron, M. Clare-Salzler, H.P. Chase, N.J. Szabo, H. Erlich,G.S. Eisenbarth, M. Rewers
___________________________
More News On Why Broccoli Really Is So Good For You
Ever since that famous day in 1992 when President George Bush made a daring proclamation: "I'm president of the United States and I'm not going to eat any more broccoli," the humble cruciferous broccoli has been defended as a 'superfood', and rightly so. With a (very) long list of health-giving properties, broccoli really is up there as one of the very best foods to include in a super healthy diet. Now scientists are getting a little closer to understanding exactly why this is. One of the important components that boosts broccoli's super-power is sulfurophane, a chemical which can switch on a set of antioxidant genes and enzymes in immune cells that help fight disease and the effects of ageing.Researchers from the School of Medicine at UCLA have recently discovered that sulforaphane in broccoli reverses the decline in cellular immune function in a test on mice. The chemical was especially effective in kick-starting the dendritic cells, which also improve immune functioning.
Broccoli is one of the most nutrient-dense foods known; it offers an incredibly high level of nutrition for a very low caloric cost. In addition, broccoli also boosts the immune system, lowers the incidence of cataracts, supports cardiovascular health, builds bones, protects against cancer and fights birth defects. Broccoli is also a clear winner in terms of total polyphenol content; it's got more polyphenols than all other popular choices; only beetroot and red onions have more polyphenols per serving.
Source: University of California - Los Angeles, March 10, 2008
___________________
Self Help for PMS Sufferers
Every month a woman's body prepares for pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur the uterus sheds it's lining and a menstrual bleed occurs - typically persisting for 3-10 days. One-two weeks before menstruation is known as the luteal phase, a time considered by many women as miserable and problematic.
As many as 70-90% of women experience premenstrual symptoms, with about 30-40% having symptoms which can cause some disruption to their lives. Severe PMS occurs in about 3-4% of women. The most common symptoms include cramps, breast tenderness, bloating, weepiness and mood swings.
The underlying cause of PMS is not well understood. Low levels of serotonin have been linked to depression, and low levels of GABA are associated with anxiety. Abnormal activity of both of these neurotransmitters has been seen in women with PMS. It is known that the hormone progesterone peaks during the luteal phase and then falls very sharply in the few days before menstrual bleeding begins. Fluctuations in progesterone levels and the interaction with neurotransmitters, seems to be the main factor in PMS. Some PMS symptoms, particularly breast pain, may be caused by excess levels of prolactin, a hormone that stimulates the glands in the breasts.
The most severe form is Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). PMDD is characterised by feelings of overwhelming sadness or hopelessness, often to the extent of feeling suicidal, tension, anger, dramatic mood swings and extreme irritability. Sufferers can sometimes experience panic attacks. Other symptoms can include disinterest in daily activities, trouble concentrating, fatigue, binge eating, sleep disturbances and physical symptoms, such as bloating, breast tenderness, headaches and joint or muscle pain.
Lifestyle Tips
DietDiets high in sugar, caffeine and alcohol are associated with PMS. Hypoglycaemia is associated with mood swings, irritability and carbohydrate cravings. You can prevent blood sugar imbalance by eating meals based around complex carbohydrates combined with protein (such as porridge oats cooked with milk and topped with nuts, chicken on granary bread and salmon with potatoes) and do not skip meals. High salt intake can cause water retention.
Physical ActivityGetting 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days is consistently associated with an improvement in PMS symptoms, even if it involves simply taking a walk.
Natural HelpCalcium and Magnesium
There is a link between lower dietary intake of calcium and magnesium and symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Calcium, in combination with magnesium, regulates muscular contractions. Excitable nerve and muscle cells contain calcium channels and when muscles receive nerve impulses stimulating contraction, the calcium channels open, calcium ions flood in, bind to activator proteins and the muscle contraction process begins. Magnesium operates as a barrier, preventing calcium from entering a cell.
Calcium supplementation has been found in clinical trials to decrease overall symptoms associated with PMS, such as depressed mood, water retention and pain. The recommended intake of calcium is 700mg daily and magnesium, 300mg daily.
Gamma linolenic acid (GLA)GLA is an omega-6 fatty acid which is used by the body to synthesise a hormone (a series 1 prostaglandin) known to reduce inflammation. GLA is found in very small amounts in oily fish like salmon and mackerel. The richest source is starflower (borage) oil (20-27% GLA, compared to the 7-14% in evening primrose oil). A study using Efamol® (a supplement containing GLA) suggests GLA can reduce symptoms of PMS.
The essential omega-3 fatty acid EPA, found in oily fish, is used to synthesise series 3 prostaglandins, which are also anti-inflammatory. There is some preliminary evidence to show that fish oil may also help PMS suffers.
Vitamin B6 Vitamin B6 is required for the synthesis of the “feel good" neurotransmitter serotonin. There is some evidence that vitamin B6 supplements may improve symptoms of PMS such as breast pain or tenderness and PMS-related depression or anxiety. The recommended intake for women is 1.2mg daily, doses of up to 100mg have been used. Excessive doses of B6 should be avoided due to a risk of peripheral neuropathy (loss of feeling in hands and feet). Good food sources include baked potatoes, bananas, pulses, oats, chicken, pork, avocado, salmon, tuna, peanut butter, eggs and liver.
Chasteberry (Vitex Agnus Castus)
The fruit of the chasteberry tree is widely used to treat female hormone imbalances. A trial was conducted with 178 women suffering from PMS, in which the participants were administered either 20mg of chasteberry or a placebo (dummy) tablet for 3 months. The researchers reported that in the chasteberry group, scores evaluating irritability, mood, anger, headache and breast fullness all significantly improved compared to the placebo group and indeed more than half of women had at least a 50% reduction in symptoms.
Chasteberry contains a variety of active compounds. It appears to bind to receptors for the neurotransmitter dopamine, which has the effect of reducing levels of prolactin.
Clinical trials to treat PMS have used anywhere from 3.5 - 4.5 mg/day of dried extract to 600 mg three times per day of dried fruit.
Finally...Some small lifestyle changes combined with some key supplements can help many women manage the often debilitating symptoms of PMS.
The double-blind study involved 56 healthy post-menopausal women aged between 47 and 70. The women were randomly assigned to receive an isoflavone-rich soybean soup, or placebo soup for 4 weeks. Isoflavones are well known phytoestrogens - active substances derived from plants that have a weak oestrogen-like action.
The researchers found that isoflavone levels significantly increased in the urine after 4 weeks of supplementation, compared to placebo. The increases occurred in combination with an increase in the excretion of deoxypyridinoline (a marker of bone resorption). Levels of osteocalcin (a marker of bone formation) were significantly increased after 4 weeks.
"Those results indicate that four-week intake of fermented soybeans improves bone metabolism in post-menopausal women by attenuating the excessive enhancement of bone resorption as well as by promoting bone formation." wrote lead author Mari Mori from Mukogawa Women's University Institute for World Health Development.
"In this study, we did not measure bone mineral density, as the ingestion period was relatively short. However, such a daily intake of fermented soybean, if continued, is expected to improve bone metabolism and to contribute to the primary prevention of osteoporosis."
The researchers also added that blood levels of insulin were significantly lower after four weeks of supplementation, compared to placebo, while blood sugar (glucose) levels were similar between the groups. "These results suggest that four-week intake of fermented soybeans improves insulin resistance in post-menopausal women whose isoflavone intake was restricted."
Source: Geriatrics & Gerontology InternationalVolume 8, Supplement 1, Pages S8-S15, doi:10.1111/j.1447-0594.2007.00399.x
"Isoflavones as Putative Anti-aging Food Factors in Asia and Effects of Isoflavone Aglycone-rich Fermented Soybeans on Bone and Glucose Metabolisms in Post-menopausal Women"
Authors: M. Mori, Y. Okabe, H. Tanimoto, T. Shimazu, H. Mori, Y. Yamori
____________________
New Research Shows Promise for Vitamin D Protection against Type 1 Diabetes
A review in the Archives of Disease in Childhood, which looked at data from five observational studies, has reported that infants who received vitamin D supplements were 29 per cent less likely to develop type 1 diabetes than non-supplemented infants. "However, for concrete conclusions to be reached, adequately powered, randomised controlled trials with long periods of follow-up would be required to establish causality and the best formulation, dose, duration and period of supplementation," said Christos Zipitis from the NHS Foundation Trust (Stockport) and Anthony Akobeng from the Central Manchester and Manchester Children's University Hospitals.
Type 1 diabetes is thought to be an auto- immune disease which affects the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Once the pancreas has been damaged, this results in an inability to produce any insulin and as a direct consequence patients cannot control blood sugar levels without medication.
In addition to an approximate 30 per cent reduction in the risk of developing type-1 diabetes, the researchers noted "some evidence of a dose-response effect, with those using higher amounts of vitamin D being at lower risk of developing type 1 diabetes."
The researchers also noted that timing of the supplementation could be a factor in the type-1 diabetes risk, with vitamin D supplementation between the ages of seven and 12 months at a 45 per cent lower risk, compared to infants supplemented between 0 and six months of age.
Scientists are calling for randomised controlled trials to further explore the potential benefits of vitamin D supplementation.
This study follows on from the research carried out at the University of Colorado, which reported that omega-3 fatty acids may reduce a child's risk of developing type 1 diabetes by 55 per cent. On the back of this study, a newly established clinical trial, called "The Nutritional Intervention for the Prevention of Type 1 Diabetes," is testing if dietary supplementation with anti-inflammatory doses of DHA during pregnancy and infancy could inhibit early onset of inflammatory events key to the development of type-1 diabetes.
Sources: Archives of Disease in Childhood (British Medical Journal)Published online ahead of print, doi:10.1136/adc.2007.128579"Vitamin D supplementation in early childhood and risk of type 1 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis"Authors: C.S. Zipitis and A.K. Akobeng
Journal of the American Medical Association26 September 2007, Volume 298, Number 12, Pages 1420-1428"Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Intake and Islet Autoimmunity in Children at Increased Risk for Type 1 Diabetes"Authors: Jill M. Norris, X. Yin, M.M. Lamb, K. Barriga, J. Seifert, M. Hoffman, H.D. Orton, A.E. Baron, M. Clare-Salzler, H.P. Chase, N.J. Szabo, H. Erlich,G.S. Eisenbarth, M. Rewers
___________________________
More News On Why Broccoli Really Is So Good For You
Ever since that famous day in 1992 when President George Bush made a daring proclamation: "I'm president of the United States and I'm not going to eat any more broccoli," the humble cruciferous broccoli has been defended as a 'superfood', and rightly so. With a (very) long list of health-giving properties, broccoli really is up there as one of the very best foods to include in a super healthy diet. Now scientists are getting a little closer to understanding exactly why this is. One of the important components that boosts broccoli's super-power is sulfurophane, a chemical which can switch on a set of antioxidant genes and enzymes in immune cells that help fight disease and the effects of ageing.Researchers from the School of Medicine at UCLA have recently discovered that sulforaphane in broccoli reverses the decline in cellular immune function in a test on mice. The chemical was especially effective in kick-starting the dendritic cells, which also improve immune functioning.
Broccoli is one of the most nutrient-dense foods known; it offers an incredibly high level of nutrition for a very low caloric cost. In addition, broccoli also boosts the immune system, lowers the incidence of cataracts, supports cardiovascular health, builds bones, protects against cancer and fights birth defects. Broccoli is also a clear winner in terms of total polyphenol content; it's got more polyphenols than all other popular choices; only beetroot and red onions have more polyphenols per serving.
Source: University of California - Los Angeles, March 10, 2008
___________________
Self Help for PMS Sufferers
Every month a woman's body prepares for pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur the uterus sheds it's lining and a menstrual bleed occurs - typically persisting for 3-10 days. One-two weeks before menstruation is known as the luteal phase, a time considered by many women as miserable and problematic.
As many as 70-90% of women experience premenstrual symptoms, with about 30-40% having symptoms which can cause some disruption to their lives. Severe PMS occurs in about 3-4% of women. The most common symptoms include cramps, breast tenderness, bloating, weepiness and mood swings.
The underlying cause of PMS is not well understood. Low levels of serotonin have been linked to depression, and low levels of GABA are associated with anxiety. Abnormal activity of both of these neurotransmitters has been seen in women with PMS. It is known that the hormone progesterone peaks during the luteal phase and then falls very sharply in the few days before menstrual bleeding begins. Fluctuations in progesterone levels and the interaction with neurotransmitters, seems to be the main factor in PMS. Some PMS symptoms, particularly breast pain, may be caused by excess levels of prolactin, a hormone that stimulates the glands in the breasts.
The most severe form is Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). PMDD is characterised by feelings of overwhelming sadness or hopelessness, often to the extent of feeling suicidal, tension, anger, dramatic mood swings and extreme irritability. Sufferers can sometimes experience panic attacks. Other symptoms can include disinterest in daily activities, trouble concentrating, fatigue, binge eating, sleep disturbances and physical symptoms, such as bloating, breast tenderness, headaches and joint or muscle pain.
Lifestyle Tips
DietDiets high in sugar, caffeine and alcohol are associated with PMS. Hypoglycaemia is associated with mood swings, irritability and carbohydrate cravings. You can prevent blood sugar imbalance by eating meals based around complex carbohydrates combined with protein (such as porridge oats cooked with milk and topped with nuts, chicken on granary bread and salmon with potatoes) and do not skip meals. High salt intake can cause water retention.
Physical ActivityGetting 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days is consistently associated with an improvement in PMS symptoms, even if it involves simply taking a walk.
Natural HelpCalcium and Magnesium
There is a link between lower dietary intake of calcium and magnesium and symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Calcium, in combination with magnesium, regulates muscular contractions. Excitable nerve and muscle cells contain calcium channels and when muscles receive nerve impulses stimulating contraction, the calcium channels open, calcium ions flood in, bind to activator proteins and the muscle contraction process begins. Magnesium operates as a barrier, preventing calcium from entering a cell.
Calcium supplementation has been found in clinical trials to decrease overall symptoms associated with PMS, such as depressed mood, water retention and pain. The recommended intake of calcium is 700mg daily and magnesium, 300mg daily.
Gamma linolenic acid (GLA)GLA is an omega-6 fatty acid which is used by the body to synthesise a hormone (a series 1 prostaglandin) known to reduce inflammation. GLA is found in very small amounts in oily fish like salmon and mackerel. The richest source is starflower (borage) oil (20-27% GLA, compared to the 7-14% in evening primrose oil). A study using Efamol® (a supplement containing GLA) suggests GLA can reduce symptoms of PMS.
The essential omega-3 fatty acid EPA, found in oily fish, is used to synthesise series 3 prostaglandins, which are also anti-inflammatory. There is some preliminary evidence to show that fish oil may also help PMS suffers.
Vitamin B6 Vitamin B6 is required for the synthesis of the “feel good" neurotransmitter serotonin. There is some evidence that vitamin B6 supplements may improve symptoms of PMS such as breast pain or tenderness and PMS-related depression or anxiety. The recommended intake for women is 1.2mg daily, doses of up to 100mg have been used. Excessive doses of B6 should be avoided due to a risk of peripheral neuropathy (loss of feeling in hands and feet). Good food sources include baked potatoes, bananas, pulses, oats, chicken, pork, avocado, salmon, tuna, peanut butter, eggs and liver.
Chasteberry (Vitex Agnus Castus)
The fruit of the chasteberry tree is widely used to treat female hormone imbalances. A trial was conducted with 178 women suffering from PMS, in which the participants were administered either 20mg of chasteberry or a placebo (dummy) tablet for 3 months. The researchers reported that in the chasteberry group, scores evaluating irritability, mood, anger, headache and breast fullness all significantly improved compared to the placebo group and indeed more than half of women had at least a 50% reduction in symptoms.
Chasteberry contains a variety of active compounds. It appears to bind to receptors for the neurotransmitter dopamine, which has the effect of reducing levels of prolactin.
Clinical trials to treat PMS have used anywhere from 3.5 - 4.5 mg/day of dried extract to 600 mg three times per day of dried fruit.
Finally...Some small lifestyle changes combined with some key supplements can help many women manage the often debilitating symptoms of PMS.
_________________
Spirulina Pacifica - Nature's Most 'Super' Superfood
Spirulina has long been hailed as a nutrient-rich superfood with exceptional health-giving properties. It is a microscopic, blue-green, edible algae which was one of the first life forms over 3.6 billion years ago. In terms of nutritional value, it really is one of the very best foods you can possibly eat. In fact it is such a complete source of nutrition that NASA is interested in cultivating it as a food for astronauts .
Spirulina Pacifica - Nature's Most 'Super' Superfood
Spirulina has long been hailed as a nutrient-rich superfood with exceptional health-giving properties. It is a microscopic, blue-green, edible algae which was one of the first life forms over 3.6 billion years ago. In terms of nutritional value, it really is one of the very best foods you can possibly eat. In fact it is such a complete source of nutrition that NASA is interested in cultivating it as a food for astronauts .
