Introduction Folate, also known as vitamin B9, is a crucial nutrient for DNA replication and various essential processes in our bodies [1] (1). It plays a role in converting homocysteine to an essential amino acid, methionine. Without sufficient folate, homocysteine would become elevated, potentially leading to a myriad of health issues including infertility and recurrent…
Despite extensive research spanning decades, the public’s understanding of fats remains varied. Social media health influencers assert that seed oils possess toxic qualities, attributing them to a range of issues, including inflammation, acne, weight gain, cancer, and infertility. However, delving into the actual science reveals a much more nuanced perspective, often obscured by the simplified…
Why was this study done? This study is a 10 year follow-up to the Block et al study that showed healthier biomarkers of cardiovascular health as well as lower prevalence of Type 2 diabetes and hypertension in long-term users of multiple dietary supplements (LTMDS) as compared to an NHANES cohort of non-supplement users or single…
Author: Mark Messina, PhD, MS Foods made from soybeans have been a part of Asian cuisine for centuries. Rich in nutrients and phytochemicals, the health effects of these foods have been rigorously studied over the past 30 years. Like other legumes, soybeans are a good source of fiber, potassium, and the B vitamin folate. Compared…
Author: Mark Messina, PhD, MS Soyfoods, long important in Asian diets, have been the subject of rigorous research related to their potential health benefits. Traditional soyfoods such as tofu, miso, tempeh, and soymilk are rich in isoflavones. These plant estrogens differ in important ways from the hormone estrogen but their presence in soyfoods has raised…
Why was this study done? To determine the effects of a traditional Japanese (Kempo) formula, EH0202 (which includes pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita moschata), plantain seeds (Plantago asiatica), Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), and safflower (Carthamus tinctorius)) on symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). What did the study find? After taking 800 mg daily of EH0202 for 3 months,…
Why was this study done? To determine the effects of a traditional Japanese (Kempo) formula on aspects of the immune system in patients with chronic hepatitis. The formula, called EH0202, includes pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita moschata), plantain seeds (Plantago asiatica), Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), and safflower (Carthamus tinctorius). What did the study find? After three months…
Why was this study done? It is clear from multiple studies that essential fatty acid distribution in obese and overweight persons is different than their lean counterparts. This study was designed to determine whether supplementing with Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA) following weight loss would impact future weight gain. What did the study find? The study discovered…
Why was this study done? Diet and nutrition play important roles in health prevention and maintenance. Dietary supplements are thought to fill nutritional gaps to help support overall health. This study was designed to help determine the relationship between supplemental use and measurements of overall health. What did the study find? Long-term supplement users (multivitamin/mineral,…
Why was this study done? Lean body mass (muscle mass) is one of the largest modifiable components of metabolism. Lean body mass is of interest to scientists because increasing lean body mass is an effective tool in the fight against obesity. This study was designed to understand what role protein plays in building lean body…