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Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E and carotenoids improve memory in the elderly

A new randomized clinical trial from Ireland has shown that a combination of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E and carotenoids can have positive effects on cognitive performance. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial, healthy subjects over the age of 65 were given 1 g of fish oil (consisting of 430 mg docosahexaenoic acid and 90 mg eicosapentaenoic acid), 15 mg vitamin E and 22 mg carotenoids (consisting of 10 mg lutein, 10 mg meso-zeaxanthin and 2 mg zeaxanthin) or a placebo on a daily basis for 24 months. After the 24 months, subjects in the active group showed significantly fewer errors on memory tasks than those receiving placebo. Furthermore, statistically significant improvements in tissue carotenoid concentrations, plasma omega-3 concentrations, and serum carotenoid concentrations were seen in the active group compared directly to the placebo group. The magnitude of the changes in blood omega-3 and carotenoid concentrations and those in tissue carotenoid concentrations were related to the magnitude of changes in working memory performance.
All about Dementia diseases, Omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin E & Carotenoids

from Julia Bintinger, MSc
on 19. January 2022 in News in science
Our microbiome and longevity

A new Japanese study of 160 people over 100 years old has found that unique bile acids produced by a specific group of gut microbes may contribute to longevity. According to the study, centenarians have a microbiome rich in the gram-negative bacterial group Odoribacteraceae, which can produce isoallo-lithocholic acid (isoalloLCA). This particular bile acid exhibits potent antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive, as well as Gram-negative multidrug-resistant pathogens such as Clostridioides difficile and Enterococcus faecium. According to the researchers, IsoalloLCA is one of the most potent antimicrobial agents that can help maintain inestinal homeostasis. The scientists deduce from the study that manipulating (either by microbial route or direct administration) the concentrations of certain bile acids, could potentially confer health benefits. For the study, the research team examined the microbiome of a total of 160 centenarians, 112 elderly people and 47 younger people. It was found that among the centenarians, the bacterial genera Alistipes, Parabacteroides, Bacteroides, Clostridia, and Methanobrevibacter were primarily present in the microbiome.

from Julia Bintinger, MSc
on 16. August 2021 in News in science
Low levels of omega-3 fatty acids and psychosis

New research shows that adults with higher levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in their blood are less likely to evolve psychotic disorders in early adulthood. For the study, researchers screened more than 3,800 individuals for depressive and psychotic disorders and generalized anxiety disorder at age 17 and again at age 24. Although there was little evidence that omega-3 fatty acids were linked to mental disorders at age 17, the scientist found that 24-year-olds with these mental disorders had higher levels of omega-6 than omega-3 fatty acids and also lower levels of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) compared with individuals without these mental disorders. In a group of more than 2,700 individuals followed over time, adults with higher levels of DHA at age 17 had a 56% lower risk of developing a psychotic disorder seven years later. This research suggests that DHA in youth may play an potential role in the reduction of the risk of psychosis in early adulthood.
All about Omega-3 fatty acids and depression & anxiety.

from MNC-Redaktion
on 09. August 2021 in News in science
Black seed oil for type 2 diabetes

In many countries, the seeds and oil of black seed (Nigella sativa) are used in traditional medicine to treat various diseases. In a new study, scientists report therapeutic benefits on glycemic control, serum lipid profile, blood pressure and body weight when black seed oil is administered to type 2 diabetics. To this end, a group of researchers from Australia and Iran investigated the effect of black seed oil extract on cardiometabolic risk factors in type 2 diabetes. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, eight weeks of supplementation with one gram per day of a black seed oil extract resulted in significant improvements in total and LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, fasting blood sugar levels, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, BMI, and waist circumference compared with the placebo group. For the study, 43 people with type 2 diabetes received either two 500 mg capsules of black seed oil extract per day, or a placebo of sunflower oil, over an eight-week period. According to the researchers, the results of this study on improving blood glucose levels and lipid levels are in line with results of previous studies in humans and animal studies.
All about black seed oil and diabetes.

from MNC-Redaktion
on 13. July 2021 in News in science
Curcumin against knee osteoarthritis

A new study has shown that an extract of tumeric is as effective as the painkiller paracetamol in reducing pain and other symptoms of knee osteoarthritis. This is a degenerative disease of the joints, which is characterised by the breakdown of cartilage and ligaments and manifests itself through stiffness of the joints and pain in them. In the randomised, controlled study the 193 patients with knee osteoarthritis received either 500 mg of tumeric extract twice daily or 650 mg of paracetamol three times daily over a period of six weeks. Furthermore, the typical complaints of knee osteoarthritis such as joint stiffness, pain and limited physical function were recorded with the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). Conclusion: After six weeks of treatment, the WOMAC showed a significant improvement in all parameters comparable to the paracetamol group, with 18% of the turmeric extract group reporting a 50% improvement and 3% of the study participants reporting a 70% improvement, which was also reflected in the serum inflammatory markers of the turmeric extract group. According to the results, there was a 37.21% reduction in CRP levels and a 74.81% reduction in TNF-α levels - a better result compared to paracetamol, but without the side-effects associated with the painkiller.
All about tumeric and a rthritis & osteoarthritis

from Julia Bintinger, MSc
on 19. April 2021 in News in science
Omega-3 fatty acids against muscle soreness

Researchers from the UK have investigated the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids in sports nutrition in a new study and found a link between fish oil and a reduction in muscle soreness after exercise. A four-week supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids led to a reduction in exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) and associated soreness in the 14 male study participants aged around 25 years. According to the research team, increased accumulation of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) could attenuate the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), as well as the production of pro-inflammatory proteins. In addition, anti-inflammatory substances from omega-3 (n-3) long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA) were identified as contributing to this mechanism of action. After taking 3 g of omega-3 fatty acids three times a day for four weeks, the parameters creatine kinase (CK), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF- α), perceived muscle soreness, maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) and peak power were measured before, after and 24, 48 and 72 hours after the EIMD. In doing so, the scientists found a lower inflammatory response and less muscle damage after exercise in the fish oil group.
All about omega-3 fatty acids & competitive sports

from Julia Bintinger, MSc
on 25. March 2021 in News in science
Magnesium for migraine

Throbbing headaches, usually on one side, accompanied by symptoms such as sensitivity to light and nausea and even vomiting – Migraine is not only one of the most burdensome, but also one of the most common widespread diseases. It is a disease of the nerve cells that affects significantly more women than men. Several factors, both internal and external, seem to play an important role in its development, including stress, hormonal changes, histamine-containing foods, certain medications, coffee and external stimuli such as weather changes, light and smells, among others. In addition to the steroid hormones oestrogen and progesterone, various neurotransmitters and micronutrients appear to play a significant role both as a cause and in therapy. Taking oral contraceptives or taking them in the wrong way can also lead to a worsening of a migraine patient's condition. In the prevention and treatment of migraine, the micronutrient magnesium is in particular focus. Due to its membrane-stabilising effect and the resulting influence on the excitation conduction of the nerves, magnesium deficiencies can play an important role in the pathogenesis of migraine attacks. Migraine patients often have suboptimal magnesium status and respond well to supplementation. In clinical trials, magnesium supplementation of 600 mg/day reduced both the duration and attack frequency of migraine attacks.
All about magnesium & migraine

from Mag. Diana Apflauer
on 15. February 2021 in News in science
Melatonin for sleepless nights

When the days become shorter and shorter in the winter months, the feeling of constant tiredness often accompanies us. This lack of daylight affects our inner clock and thus also the sleep hormone melatonin, which controls the sleep-wake rhythm of the human body. This metabolite of the trypothane metabolism is mainly formed in the pineal gland from the neurotransmitter serotonin, whereby its synthesis and secretion are subject to a light-dark cycle that depends on the day and season. Darkness has a light-inhibiting and stimulating effect on melatonin secretion, with melatonin levels up to ten times higher at night than during the day. Melatonin is not a hypnotic, but its main function is to strengthen the nocturnal readiness for sleep, which is determined by the circadian system. Increasing the melatonin level in the evening leads to a qualitatively well-developed sleep of sufficient length and is the remedy of choice for patients with nightmares and REM sleep behaviour disorders. The effect of melatonin is strongly time-dependent – thus, taking it late in the evening between 9 pm and 11 pm strengthens the amplitude of the circadian rhythm (fatigue increases), while taking it at around 6 pm to 7 pm shifts the phase of the circadian system forward (fatigue occurs earlier) and in the morning hours shifts the phase backward (fatigue occurs later). In addition, the supplementary intake of melatonin during long-haul flights before sleep speeds up the adjustment to the new time zone, thus reducing the subjective feeling of jet lag.
Everything about melatonin & sleep disturbances

from Georg Hofstätter, BSc, MSc
on 21. December 2020 in News in science
More relaxed with ginseng, magnesium and B vitamins

We all know the problem – stress is nowadays an unpleasant companion of almost every second person. Stress is a natural reaction of the body to strain in order to increase performance. While a short-term mobilisation of these reserves of the body is unproblematic, stress as a permanent condition is accompanied by not only physical but also psychological signs - it leads to irritability and excessive demands. These can not only impair health, but also have a negative impact on the well-being and quality of life of the individual. In this context, some micronutrients, but also plant substances are known to play an essential role in maintaining the functions of the nerves and the psyche. For example, magnesium and a whole range of B vitamins, but also plant substances such as ginseng root, contribute to the normal functioning of stress reactions. Extracts from ginseng root are used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for a wide range of indications, including stress management. In a recent study, the use of precisely these nutrients and their stress-modulating effects were tested over two months. It was shown that after this period of time, the participants not only felt in a better mood, but also more relaxed, less irritated and rested, with a 44.9% reduction in stress levels and a 42.9% increase in well-being and quality of life.
All about stress

from Julia Bintinger, MSc
on 04. December 2020 in News in science
With micronutrients against a distressed gut

Stress influences many functions of our body and also has a negative effect on the intestines and their functions. The reason for this is the close communication of the digestive tract with the nervous system, hormone system and immune system. A permanent burdening of the body with stress leads to a disturbance of the digestive performance, but also of the intestinal function, the permeability of the intestinal mucosa and also the composition of our intestinal flora. The resulting intestinal complaints can have a strong impact on the quality of life of those affected. In this context, an observational study has shown that a combination preparation of special bacterial cultures, saffron extract and vitamins can counteract the unpleasant symptoms and calm a stressed intestine. The six-week study with a total of 93 participants showed that the use of a combination of Lactobacillus helveticus R0052 and Bifidobacterium longum R0175, saffron extract and vitamins B2 and C can improve complaints such as irregularities in digestion and bowel movements such as constipation and diarrhoea by 19%, as well as a disturbed feeling in the stomach due to flatulence and abdominal cramps by up to 18%. The six-week use of the study drug even showed a recovery of 30% in the social problems that affect work and family life due to a stress bowel and all in all improved the problem of the stress bowel highly significantly.
All about irritable bowel syndrome

from Dipl.-Ing. Sophie Humer
on 19. November 2020 in News in science
Folic acid - a problem child for fertility and pregnancy

Various factors play a role in baby planning and pregnancy – a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and plenty of exercise, as well as the right supply of all the important nutrients. Folic acid is particularly important during pregnancy, as it is essential for the development of the fetal nervous system. An insufficient supply of folic acid increases the risk of damage to the neural tube (spina bifida) in the child. As the neural tube closes between the 21st and 27th day of pregnancy, i.e. at a time when most women have not yet noticed that they are pregnant, folic acid supplementation is strongly recommended for all women of childbearing age, and especially for those who are planning to become pregnant. It is also important to make sure you have a sufficient folic acid intake during pregnancy. At 600 μg, the requirement is almost twice as high as for non-pregnant women. This increased requirement is due to increased maternal erythropoiesis, growth of the foetus and placenta and increased renal loss. Low birth weight, growth disorders, bone marrow changes as well as neurological abnormalities and the aforementioned neural tube defect are associated with an insufficient folic acid supply during pregnancy. In addition, malformations such as cleft lip and palate are also associated with folic acid deficiency during early pregnancy.
All about folic acid

from MNC-Redaktion
on 27. October 2020 in News in science
Healthy-Aging with spermidine

Growing old, but at the same time staying physically and mentally fit is the wish of most people. In the field of Healthy Aging, spermidine is therefore becoming more and more the focus of science, as recent studies have shown that natural cellulose counteracts age-related cell changes and ensures that our cells remain healthy. Due to its strong link to cell growth and cell function, spermidine ensures the freshness of cells by stimulating the self-cleaning process of the cells, the so-called autophagy. As we age, cells have less and less spermidine available to them while cell activity decreases, increasing the risk of age-related diseases such as cardiovascular disease and dementia. Spermidine is found in the body cells of all living organisms and is also found in plant foods such as pulses, mushrooms, wholemeal products, mature cheese and especially abundantly in soya beans. About two thirds of the spermidine comes from our own production, the remaining two thirds are taken in through food. Soybeans in particular are often used to obtain pure spermidine for food supplements. These have the advantage of containing a controlled amount of the active substance, in contrast to natural sources where the spermidine content varies greatly. In order to specifically counteract spermidine loss in old age, dietary supplements should therefore be used.
All about spermidine

from Natalie Lebner, MSc
on 22. October 2020 in News in science
Does the vitamin D level influence COVID-19?

Autumn is here, with shorter days, rougher temperatures and also due to the weakening sun, with reduced vitamin D production. But just now, when the dark season makes people more susceptible to infections and many people rely on vitamin D to support their immune system, the question arises whether the so-called sun vitamin can also have an influence on corona virus infection. The answer to this question was investigated by a team of researchers from the University of Chicago. As a basis for this, the researchers used vitamin D measurements from 2019 of a total of 489 patients tested for COVID-19 in 2020 and evaluated them. The data showed that there is a likely link between a positive COVID-19 test and an inadequate vitamin D status. The estimated COVID-19 RATES were 21.6% in the vitamin D group with a deficit and only 12.2% in the vitamin D group with an adequate supply. The difference was statistically significant and indicated that people with a vitamin D deficiency were more likely to develop corona than those with an adequate supply. The study is not the only one to show a link between vitamin D status and COVID-19.
All about vitamin D

from Michael Wäger, BSc, MSc
on 14. October 2020 in News in science
Oil pulling to improve oral health and hygiene

Oil pulling is an Ayurvedic procedure that is traditionally used not only for oral health but also for detoxification. In order to improve oral health, in addition to tasteless edible oils such as the popular sunflower oil, oils with an antibacterial character are also used in the oral cavity, which inhibit harmful organisms such as bacteria or fungi. Furthermore, oil pulling serves to protect the teeth and gums, as well as to strengthen the jaw and at the same time prevent bleeding gums, bad breath, but also dry lips. Oil pulling involves – as the name says – the minute-long „extraction“ of the oil through the spaces between the teeth, which according to Ayurveda activates enzymes that are supposed to remove toxins from the blood. Thus, oil pulling together with tooth brushing and flossing is a natural and simple way to improve and maintain oral health and hygiene. In Ayurvedic medicine, however, oil pulling is said to have further effects, such as helping with diseases such as diabetes, asthma, headaches and migraines. According to Ayurveda, the reason for this is the oral cavity, which, if the mucous membrane is intact, is the first barrier against the penetration of pathogenic organisms, preventing them from entering the systematic circulation.
All about oil pulling

from MNC-Redaktion
on 01. October 2020 in News in science
Vitamin D for babies

Breastfeeding is not only the most natural way to feed a baby, breast milk also provides a supply of all the micronutrients that the offspring need for optimal development. In the first year of life in particular, extra attention should be paid to vitamin D, as current research shows that breast milk usually contains too little of it. Nevertheless, babies need vitamin D from day one, which is why the German Society for Children and Youth Medicine (DGKJ) recommends supplementing with 400 to 500 mg of vitamin D daily from shortly after birth until the child's second early summer. In the human body, vitamin D assumes important key functions and acts particularly as a bone vitamin, where it makes a significant contribution to bone maintenance as a regulator of calcium and phosphate metabolism. For this reason, a sufficient supply of vitamin D is essential for normal growth and development of the bone system, even in babies. When supplementing babies, the focus should be on product quality and attention should be paid to high-quality capsules without technological additives and liquid applications without additives and alcohol.
All about vitamin D

from Mag. Margit Weichselbraun
on 21. September 2020 in News in science
Tomato special extract against tired legs

The summer heat can be quite a strain on our body and especially on our legs. Tired legs are a recurring theme in summer, especially for women. The reason for this is the loss of fluid due to high temperatures, which causes blood and lymph to flow more slowly. The result: heavy and tired legs. In this context, tomato special extract can help to contribute to the fluidity of the blood and thus promote blood circulation. The antithrombotic effects of tomato special extract on human platelets were already described in 2001. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 90 healthy subjects, a 70% reduction in platelet aggregation was demonstrated. In the meantime, the antithrombotic properties of tomato special extract have been tested in 10 different studies and confirmed by the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) The antithrombotic effect of tomato special extract is based on the stabilization of the platelet form by inhibiting thrombin-induced aggregation and inhibition of glycoprotein.
All about tomato special extract

from Georg Hofstätter, BSc, MSc
on 03. September 2020 in News in science
Cranberry against urinary tract infections

Summertime brings sun, bathing fun and unfortunately often annoying urinary tract infections. For anatomical reasons, it is mainly women who are affected by this disagreeable condition, as the female urethra is significantly shorter than the male, making it easier for germs to enter. When these pathogens, mostly the bacterium Escherichia coli, first enter the bladder via the urethra, irritation and painful inflammation of the bladder wall can be the result. This leads to the typical unpleasant symptoms such as constant urge to urinate, burning sensation when going to the toilet and pain in the abdomen. If an infection already exists, cranberry can be the main remedy. The proanthocyanidins in cranberry inhibit the docking of bacteria on the target tissue and can thus prevent later infection in the early stages. Responsible for this effect are special bioactive proanthocyanidins (A-type PAC), which inhibit the formation of the docking sites of the bacteria (P-fimbria) on the target tissue and are ultimately responsible for the characteristic antibacterial properties of cranberry.
All about cranberry and bladder and urinary tract inflammation

from MNC-Redaktion
on 27. August 2020 in News in science
Vitamin B12 in vegan diet

A vegan lifestyle without animal products is becoming more and more popular and its high proportion of fruit and vegetables is inspiring its followers. In order to maintain the health of our body and the metabolism functions smoothly, a varied and balanced diet is essential. In particular, the supply of essential macronutrients such as protein, fats and carbohydrates, but also micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals play an essential role. In this context, the vitamin B₁₂ is to be mentioned in particular, which occurs naturally only in animal products and thus promotes the development of a deficiency in vegans. A recent study of the University of Freiburg has shown that already after 4 weeks of vegan nutrition relevant vitamin B₁₂ markers can change significantly. According to this study, depending on the initial situation, the high reserve capacities of vitamin B₁₂ in the liver and kidney are exhausted after only two to five years, followed by partially irreversible deficiency symptoms such as neurological disorders up to anaemia and immunological abnormalities.
All about vitamin B₁₂.

from Julia Bintinger, MSc
on 04. August 2020 in News in science