Search

The article discusses the role of selected nutraceutical supplements and nutrition in the treatment of hypertension. Topics mentioned include the role of vitamin D in the regulation of blood pressure and in metabolism of insulin, the BP lowering effect of high-dose vitamin B6 called pyridoxine, and prevention of atherosclerosis through flavonoids as potent free radical scavengers.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death today. Many of the biochemical alterations associated with the pathophysiology of CVD can be modified by adequate intakes of bioactive nutrients through a correct diet or supplementation. Recently, there has been growing public and clinical interest in cocoa polyphenols (CPs) and omega-3 (ω-3) fatty acids. A plethora of nutritional intervention trials and experimental studies demonstrates that consumption of these bioactive food compounds is beneficial to promote cardiovascular health. The purpose of this review is to summarize the major cardioprotective effects of CPs and ω-3 fatty acids, providing a scientific rationale for incorporating the combination of these molecules as a nutritional intervention in the prevention of CVD. Although several studies have shown the individual cardioprotective nature of these compounds, a combination treatment with CPs and ω-3 fatty acids may be a promising approach to enhance the preventive value of these molecules and reduce cardiovascular risk factors associated with aging. Therefore, this article also reviews some of the key studies on the interaction between CPs and the metabolism of ω-3 fatty acids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and memory loss. Topics discussed include mechanism involved in MCI such as deficiency in Vitamin b!2, folic acid and magnesium, use of Mini-Cognitive Assessment Instrument or the Montreal Cognitive Assessment for diagnosis of severity of the disease, and changes that should be made in nutrition and lifestyle to combat disease.

The article offers medical research news briefs as of October 2013. A recently published epidemiologic study reveals that reducing coffee intake can reduce mortality in younger people. complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) can be helpful for HIV patients. A recent study confirms that Mindfulness Training for Smokers (MTS) can be helpful in reducing the drinking habits of young men.

The article presents six important steps that must be included in a patient with hypertension's (HTN) integrative treatment plan. Preventing HTN and other chronic diseases could be possible by getting enough restful and restorative sleep. Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) and the Mediterranean diet have been proven to be effective in combating HTN. Coenzyme Q10, fish oil and controlled-release melatonin are some dietary supplements essential in their diet.

The article explores approaches to various insect bites. Bedbugs are small, brown, flattened insects and symptoms associated with it vary among individuals, with some developing red welts swelling while others have little or no reaction. Bites caused by Brown recluse spiders are diagnosed only based on physical examination and medical history as there are no reliable clinical tests to diagnose it. Ticks do not cause serious health problems and it is treated with oral antihistamines.

The article offers information on alternative and complementary therapy studies. Research reveals that electroacupuncture seems to reduce the severity and incidence of hypotension during liver transplantation in patients under anesthesia. A epidemiologic study indicates that cruciferous vegetable consumption may heighten survival rates in breast cancer women patients. Another study shows that flavonoid-rich food could prevent Parkinson's disease in men.

The article offers medical news briefs. A study funded by the National Institutes of Health reveals that women with HIV who take preformed vitamin-A and β-carotene (VA/BC) have an increased risk of transferring the virus to their infants through breastfeeding. A prospective cohort study indicates that high intake of chocolate results to increased risk of heart failure hospitalization or death in women. Two studies discover that sleep loss contributes to obesity in children and adults.