Why was this study done? There is a great deal of interest in understanding more about preserving telomere length; telomeres are the protective caps on the end of our DNA strands. It is known that diets and specific nutrients seem to have a protective effect, especially multivitamins, omega 3, vitamin D and polyphenols. This study…
Why was this study done? There are areas of the world where selenium deficiency (Kashan’s disease) is prevalent due to lack of selenium in the soil. This study was designed to help determine the amount of selenium necessary for health. What did the study find? This study determined that 50 mcg of selenium may necessary…
Why was this study done? Keshan disease, a selenium deficiency disease, occurs sporadically around the world primarily in areas where the soil is lacking selenium. This study was designed to investigate seasonal changes in selenium status in people living in a low selenium area. What did the study find? This study did find that living…
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.…
Why was this study done? Beta-carotene has many health benefits and is a safe method to increase both beta-carotene and vitamin A status. High doses of beta-carotene, though, have been reported to change the coloring of the skin. This study was designed to investigate higher dosing of beta-carotene (30,000 IU, 60,000 IU, 90,000 IU) along…
Why was this study done? It has long been thought that thirst and dehydration sensations are regulated by plasma osmolality (concentration of electrolytes). This study was designed to help understand the mechanisms underlying thirst. What did the study find? That the act of drinking produces a neural response (through a hormone called norepinephrine) that alerts…
Why was this study done? Uncovering the mechanisms of hunger and energy balance are an important step in understanding why so many people have problems with weight control. It is clear that a large part of satiety control is hormonal in nature. This study was designed to understand the differing role of leptin and insulin…
Why was this study done? Folic acid is a B vitamin that is important for cellular growth and repair. Folic acid is especially important for women of childbearing age, as many birth defects (primarily neural tube defects) can be avoided with proper supplementation. This study was designed to help determine the optimal amount of folic…
Why was this study done? The number of people who use non-vitamin, non-mineral supplements is unknown. This study was an attempt to better understand herbal and other non-vitamin supplement use. What did the study find? The study found that around 32.7% of adult health plan members used at least one supplement that was not a…