More Supplements again.

Today more research indicating that supplements may be useful for us, an area already mentioned on this blog. After a review of 13 studies it does seem that zinc shortens the duration of a cold by, on average 42%. This is perhaps not surprising as zinc is used in the immune system along with vitamin C (which is both anti-viral and anti-bacterial). Dosage is still up for debate but I personally take this nutrient daily and it is also great for the skin.  Vitamin D has also been in the news a lot recently as most of us do not get enough of this due to poor health advice concerning fears over too much sun exposure and having too much fat. This vitamin has many powerful roles in the body and latest research suggests not only can it reduce the risks of heart disease, strokes and diabetes but, can reduce the incidence of bowel cancer by 40%. This is great news as bowel cancer rates in men have doubled since the 1970′s a fact also blamed on too much processed meats and a lack of fruit and vegetables in the diet. Vitamin D is also vital for building bones but you need the sun and foods with fats such as oily fish and eggs.  All this on top of the research news that vitamin B may be important in reducing the risks of dementia’s and Alzheimer’s. We already know about lycopene and prostates and resveratrol (grapes and red wine) is looking promising to boost the circulating system and reduce Alzheimer’s. As is another nutrient known as  astaxanthin which is what turns salmon and flamingos pink.

The message which has been growing for some time I think is to eat a very good varied unprocessed diet to maximise all the nutrients that your body requires. On top of this you probably need a good quality, broad spectrum multi vitamin and mineral for optimal health and perhaps a few others. And, as always move and rest regularly. By the way a recent US study covering 27 years found no reported deaths from taking supplements.

If you want further information and advice do please let me know.

Kevin, 27 July 2011.