Omega-3 Fish Oils and Atherosclerosis

Why was this article written? At the time this article was written, the jury was still out on whether Omega-3 Fish oils were beneficial or not. This article reviewed the evidence to date on the relationship between fish oils and heart disease (atherosclerosis). Marine Lipids and Atherosclerosis: A Review Authors: Davidson MH, Liebson PR. Cardiovasc…

What Type of Meal Keeps Blood Sugar Low?

Why was this study done? The proper macronutrient (protein, carbohydrate, fat) makeup of a meal is a hotly contested field of research. This study was designed to investigate the effects of a standard carbohydrate meal of approximately 58 grams, consumed along with varying amounts of protein 0, 15.8, 24.1, 33.6, and 49.9 grams to determine…

Which is the Best Type of Beta-Carotene?

Why was this study done? Differing shapes of identical chemicals (called isomers) can have differing effects on humans. The “cis” isomer of beta-carotene have shown in animal studies to have lower vitamin A activity, but humans have different physiology than animals. This study was designed to investigate how different isomers of beta-carotene act in humans.…

The Rationale for Dietary Supplements

Why was this article written? Because most people have at least one nutritional deficiency (and maybe more than one) multivitamins are suggested for use by many health professionals and associations. Multivitamins help to fill in gaps in nutrition, providing nutrient missed in normal diets. A multivitamin can be a safe, nutritious, and inexpensive part of…

Water-Soluble Guar Gum and Cholesterol Lowering

Why was this study done? Cholesterol lowering can be accomplished through non-pharmacological means (diet, exercise, weight loss) and dietary fiber plays an important role in a cholesterol-lowering plan. This study was designed to investigate the effects of both solid and liquid guar gum on plasma lipid levels (cholesterol, HDL, LDL) in people with moderately high…

Effect of High Calcium Intake on Magnesium Excretion

Why was this study done? Supplementing with calcium is an effective tool for bone maintenance, but it has long been postulated that high calcium intake may negatively affect other minerals (especially magnesium). This study was designed to investigate the effects of a high calcium supplementation (1500 mg/day for 10 days) on magnesium excretion. What did…