Vitamin D and Prostate

Along with low sex hormone-binding globulin and high density lipoprotein cholesterol, a new study reported that low serum calcium and vitamin D levels in 184 randomly selected men 72 to 76 years old were associated with a higher risk for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). J Urol. 2013 Aug;190(2):608-14. PMID:  23399651

Vitamin D and Parkinson’s Disease

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted on seven observational studies that reported a relationship between Parkinson’s disease and blood levels of vitamin D. The review reported a strong relationship between vitamin deficiency and Parkinson’s disease. Those with vitamin D insufficiency (below 75 nmol/l) had 50 percent increase in risk, and those with vitamin D…

Vitamin D and Asthma

Vitamin D has been investigated for a number of actions in the body and a few studies have shown that circulating blood levels of vitamin D are related to the development of asthma and asthma exacerbations. While the molecular mechanisms underlying this relationship a unsure, more studies will help to define the relationship. Ahmed SZ,…

Children and Calcium

By Dr. Jamie McManus. Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body with more than 99% occurring in bones and teeth, where it is the central “support structure.” Therefore, it’s critically important that children of all ages optimize their calcium intake every day to ensure proper development of bones and teeth. Calcium is found…

Flavonoids and Cardiovascular Disease

With acute myocardial ischemia (reduced blood flow to the heart) being a major health concern, understanding prevention of the disease is important. A long-established relationship has been reported between flavonoid-rich food consumption and reduction of cardiovascular risk factors. A new review of multiple studies suggests that cardio-protective action of flavonoids may be due to mitochondrial…

Does Weight Gain Change Vitamin D Status?

Why was this study done? Many studies have noted an inverse relationship between vitamin D status and increasing weight. The studies postulate that adipose (fat) tissue sequesters vitamin D, making it less available to the body. This study was designed to help define the relationship between vitamin D and weight by determining the effects of…

Does Vitamin D Affect Heart Health?

Why was this study done? From many population-based studies, there appears to be a relationship between vitamin D status and cardiovascular disease. This study was designed to help further the knowledge of this relationship. What did the study find? There was a strong relationship between the amount of serum vitamin D measured in 257 volunteers…