Keshan Disease in China

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…

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.…

What Drives Our Thirst?

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…

What Causes Hunger?

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…

Folic Acid in Smokers and Non-Smokers

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…

Which Supplements do People Take?

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…