Natural Products Foundation

NPF Science Update: Sunscreen

Thu, 14 Aug 2014 10:00:00 +0000

The NPF Science Update brings you news about scientific advances in the field of natural products. The Science Update features contributions from scientists, academics, doctors, healthcare professionals, industry veterans and other experts. To sign up to receive the monthly Science Update via email, please click here: NPF Science Update.

What's Worse for Health: Sun or Sunscreen?

By Suzanne Dixon, MPH, MS, RD

Recent news reports have highlighted a study out of Sweden, which found women who avoid sun exposure have higher instances of death due to any cause (all-cause mortality) compared with women who regularly get more sun. Somehow these findings have been getting some buzz as “proof” that sunblock is deadly, despite that the research did not examine sunscreen use at all.

What’s the danger?

Having adequate vitamin D levels is linked with better health, so for people who do not sunburn easily, some health experts recommend 10 to 15 minutes of sun exposure, three times per week, to ensure the body is making enough vitamin D. Sweden is very far north, so there is the possibility that in this population, which receives no sun exposure for much of the year, blocking sun exposure is more harmful than not blocking it; this may lower blood vitamin D to insufficient or deficient levels.

What did the new study actually find?

The Swedish researchers collected information on sun exposure and health habits from approximately 30,000 women who were 25 to 64 years old at the start of the study. Over 20 years of follow up, the women who had the least sun exposure were twice as likely to die of any cause compared with women with the most sun exposure.

On the surface, these results seem to suggest that avoiding sun exposure is bad for health, but the study authors failed to take into account important considerations. When compared with the group with “active sun exposure habits,” those women who indicated they were not exposed to sun were significantly more likely to:

be overweight or obese,
be sedentary, meaning they engaged in very little physical activity compared with the sun-exposed group, and
have a hereditary risk of melanoma.

None of these factors—all of which are important predictors of the risk of death due to any cause—were corrected or controlled for by the researchers. Further, they did not consider other diseases that may contribute to risk of death. While they assessed the use of medications for diabetes and cardiovascular disease, this approach does not provide information about other chronic diseases, such as autoimmune conditions or mobility issues that may increase risk of death.

Activities used to determine “active sun exposure”—sunbathing, winter holidays to the mountains, and vacations to warm, sunny locations—are likely related to overall health as well, as women who are frail or ill are less able to engage in these active, sun-seeking habits. It’s also possible that people who spend the most time in the sun actually are the same people who get the most sun exposure, no matter how much sunscreen they think they are applying.

Separating truth from fiction

Until a better-designed study comes along, people should continue to heed the advice of dermatologists and other experts, as the evidence still points to the importance of avoiding excess sun exposure for good health.

Get the D. If you do not sunburn easily, for your health, aim to get 15 minutes of sun exposure three times per week. You can adjust this to account for living at northern latitudes. Even people with darker skin can develop skin cancer, so don’t overdo it.

Screen, for sure. Make a habit of using a broad-spectrum sunscreen. It’s true the jury is still out on whether chemical-based sunscreens may have other long-term health effects, but for now the risks of not using appear to outweigh the risks of applying sunscreen. If you fear chemical sunscreens, try physical blocks. Some health experts have raised conerns about metal nano-particles in some physial formulas, but you can find zinc- or titanium-based sunscreens, that do not contain nano particles (though they may form a white sheen when applied).

Move more. As noted, the women in the sun-exposed group were significantly more active than the sun avoiders. Regular physical activity is strongly linked to better overall health, so add movement into your day, every day. If you’re a couch potato, just 20 to 30 minutes of brisk walking will do the trick.

Stay slim and trim. The sun avoiders were more likely to be overweight or obese. Maintain a healthy body weight throughout adulthood, and if you’re already overweight, losing just a few pounds can significantly improve health and reduce risk of death.

Story Source: Suzanne Dixon, MPH, MS, RD, an author, speaker, and internationally recognized expert in chronic disease prevention, epidemiology, and nutrition, has taught medical, nursing, public health, and alternative medicine coursework. She has delivered over 150 invited lectures to health professionals and consumers and is the creator of a nutrition website acclaimed by the New York Times and Time magazine. Suzanne received her training in epidemiology and nutrition at the University of Michigan, School of Public Health at Ann Arbor. The above story is reprinted from materials provided by Aisle7. All rights reserved.

References: Journal of Internal Medicine, 2014, 276; 77-86

NPF Science Update: Vitamin D

Thu, 17 Jul 2014 10:00:00 +0000

D or No D

By the Aisle7 Medical Advisory

The New York Times reports that the United States Preventive Services Task Force, an independent group of health experts, has “decided not to recommend routine testing for vitamin D levels,” a frustrating ruling for some health advocates. The panel clarified that it neither endorsed nor advised against regular vitamin D screening in most adults, and suggested that testing be considered case by case. However, those in favor of screenings point to research suggesting widespread vitamin D deficiency, and also to a wide range of studies showing benefit from vitamin D supplementation. Most recently, for example:

New research out of Australia has found that vitamin D may positively affect blood pressure. Though a cause-and-effect relationship was not established, after pooling data from a whopping 140,000 people, Australian scientists saw a clear trend: for every 10% increase in vitamin D blood levels, blood pressure declined. Even better, the team behind the study concluded that adequate vitamin D levels lowered the chances of even developing high blood pressure by 8%.

Researchers in Iran have found that supplementing with vitamin D—along with its old pal calcium—improves symptoms of gestational diabetes, a sometimes dangerous metabolic disorder during pregnancy. Supplementation appeared to reduce levels of glucose, insulin, and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, and insulin sensitivity and HDL (“good”) cholesterol also improved.

On the flipside, according to the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), D is not helpful for treating adult asthma. Though not previously associated with reducing asthma symptoms, this result is still surprising because low vitamin D levels in asthma patients have been linked to worse symptoms and a double-blind study of Japanese children found that supplementing with vitamin D reduced the incidence of asthma attacks compared with a placebo.

The lowdown

As the lead author in the Australian study put it, "In view of the costs and side effects associated with antihypertensive drugs, the potential to prevent or reduce blood pressure and therefore the risk of hypertension with vitamin D is very attractive.” That logic may apply for other conditions as well.

As to the question of mandatory testing, Aisle7 Chief Science Editor Dr. Alan Gaby points out that questions remain about which reference ranges indicate deficiency, whether the screenings provide meaningful information, and whether low levels of certain vitamin D markers truly indicate low vitamin D status. Fortunately, he suggests, “There is a simple solution to this debate: average adults, with their doctor's approval, supplement with 800 to 1,200 IU per day, which is enough to realize the benefit in most cases, and not so much to risk toxicity.”

Deficiencies are more common in winter, and seen more often in seniors, vegans, and people living in northern latitudes or those with malabsorption due to surgeries, celiac disease, or other intestinal condition.

References: Marcarelli, Rebekah; “Vitamin D Deficiencies Linked To High Blood Pressure,” HNGN, www.hngn.com/articles/34668/20140626/vitamin-d-deficiencies-linked-to-high-blood-pressure.htm, [accessed 26 June 2014].

Sonawane, Vishakha. Calcium and Vitamin D Supplements Improve Metabolism in Women with Gestational Diabetes: Study, www.hngn.com/articles/34458/20140624/calcium-vitamin-d-intake-improves-metabolism-women-gestational-diabetes-study.htm [accessed 30 June 2014].

Starling, Shane. Vitamin D not helpful for adult asthmatics, www.nutraingredients-usa.com/Trends/Vitamin-D/Vitamin-D-not-helpful-for-adult-asthmatics [accessed 30 June 2014].

NPF Science Update: Saturated Fats

Thu, 08 May 2014 10:00:00 +0000

Saturated Fats and Heart Disease: Corrections Highlight Study Flaws

By Maureen Williams, ND

Remember the recent headlines proclaiming saturated fats didn’t contribute to heart disease? In the aftermath, health and nutrition experts have called the research validity into question, since days after the original publication the study authors issued a correction, which affects the conclusions drawn from the results.

Addressing potential study errors

The original scientific paper was a meta-analysis of 72 individual studies, including a mix of clinical trials and observational (epidemiological) research. The media widely portrayed the meta-analysis results as an invitation to step up saturated fats in the diet, but the study showed no such thing: it originally found that saturated and polyunsaturated omega-6 fats appeared neutral for heart health, while omega-3 fats provided some heart health benefits.

Some of the studies considered dietary fat intake alone, and others included blood measures of fatty acids. Given the range in type and quality of study included in the meta-analysis, the results depend upon how carefully and properly the data are combined.

Many health experts who took exception with the paper raised questions about the validity of some assumptions made when the pooled data were analyzed, hence the subsequent corrections issued on the paper:

The authors originally assumed one study included in the meta-analysis found a negative effect of omega-3 fats on heart disease risk. Most experts agree that study showed a heart-health benefit from omega-3s. This error alone calls into question the conclusion that polyunsaturated fats offer no protection against heart disease.

The authors didn’t address how total diet may change for people who eat less saturated fat. If saturated fat calories are replaced with an abundance of simple carbohydrates (sugar) and processed foods, this isn’t likely to minimize heart disease risk. Replacing saturated fat with the omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fats in nuts, seeds, olive oil, and fish is supported by decades of research in a variety of adult populations.

Clarifying the confusion

Dr. Emanuele Di Angelantonio of the University of Cambridge, one of the authors of the meta-analysis, believes the paper’s conclusions remain valid. He believes the main problem is how the results were “wrongly interpreted by the media.” While media misrepresentation of scientific papers is a valid concern for many researchers, Dr. Walter Willett, Chair of the Harvard School of Public Health Nutrition Department believes the paper has done damage. Dr. Willett noted, “A retraction [of the original paper] with similar press promotion should be considered.”

Back to basics

This brings us back to the basics: a heart-healthy diet means eating real food, and limiting the amount of processed and packaged foods in the diet. Many health experts feel small amounts of high-fat animal products are okay, but only in the context of a totally healthy diet.

In terms of heart disease, and just about any other chronic disease one can name, the best nutritional insurance comes from eating unprocessed, whole foods, including nuts, legumes (beans and peas), vegetables and fruit, whole grains, vegetable and olive oils, and small portions of animal products, if desired.

References: Ann Intern Med. 2014;160:398-406

NPF Science Update: D-Mannose

Thu, 10 Apr 2014 10:00:00 +0000

D-Mannose May Prevent Common Urinary Tract Infections

By Maureen Williams, ND

At the beginning of every urinary tract infection (UTI), harmful bacteria cling to the inner lining of the bladder or urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the bladder). D-mannose, a sugar, has been found in a test tube to prevent bacteria from sticking in this way, leading researchers to hope that, as a supplement, it could prevent UTIs. A report in the BJU International describes research suggesting that D-mannose does prevent UTIs in women known to have them frequently.

D-mannose prevents UTIs as effectively as an antibiotic

The report describes a trial in which 308 women who suffered from recurrent UTIs were given either 2 grams of D-mannose powder per day, 50 mg of the antibiotic nitrofurantoin per day, or no treatment. After six months, the following effects were noted:

Women treated with either D-mannose or the antibiotic had a lower risk of UTI recurrences than untreated women.
While 60% of untreated women experienced a UTI during the trial, only 15% of those using D-mannose and 20% of those using the antibiotic had infections.
Statistical calculations suggested that D-mannose and the antibiotic were equally effective.
Women using D-mannose had fewer side effects than women using the antibiotic.

“We believe that D-mannose may be a useful agent for the prevention of recurrent UTIs,” the researchers said. They noted that placebo-controlled trials would be needed to verify their findings.

Keeping your urinary tract infection-free

If you suffer from recurrent UTIs, these findings suggest that D-mannose may be helpful to you. Here are some other things you can do to avoid infections:

Flush with water. One way to prevent bacteria from clinging to the urinary tract is to keep fluid flowing through the system, so drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Take cranberry. Whether as juice or concentrated capsule, cranberry has been found in most, although not all, studies to be an effective UTI preventer. Unsweetened juice is a good choice, since it can help flush the urinary system without adding immune-impairing sugar to the system.

Reach for herbs. Uva ursi (Arctostaphylos uva ursi) is often used to prevent UTIs, and studies show it may be effective for treating them; however, it should only be used with medical supervision once an infection is underway.

Story Source: Maureen Williams, ND, completed her doctorate in naturopathic medicine at Bastyr University in Seattle and has been in private practice since 1995. With an abiding commitment to access to care, she has worked in free clinics in the US and Canada, and in rural clinics in Guatemala and Honduras where she has studied traditional herbal medicine. She currently lives and practices in Victoria, BC, and lectures and writes extensively for both professional and community audiences on topics including family nutrition, menopause, anxiety and depression, heart disease, cancer, and easing stress. Dr. Williams is a regular contributor to Healthnotes Newswire. The above story is reprinted from materials provided by Aisle7. All rights reserved.

References: BJU Int 2014;113:9-10

NPF Science Update: Allergies

Thu, 13 Mar 2014 10:00:00 +0000

Pregnant? Eat Nuts Now to Lower Your Child's Allergy Risk

By Kimberly Beauchamp, ND

Children born to mothers who eat lots of nuts during their pregnancies may be less likely to develop nut allergies during childhood, reports a study in the JAMA Pediatrics.

Nut allergies on the rise

Peanut and tree nut (almonds, brazil nuts, macadamias, walnuts, pecans, pistachios, cashews, and hazelnuts) allergies share similar characteristics and co-existing allergies are quite common. Most peanut/tree nut allergies begin in early childhood and about 80 to 90% of these persist into adulthood.

Understanding allergies

A true food allergy (rather than an intolerance or sensitivity) results when a component of a food (usually a protein) triggers the release of substances like histamine that cause symptoms ranging from itching, rash, or runny nose to more serious reactions, including throat swelling and difficulty breathing.

These reactions require prior sensitization, meaning that the person must have been exposed to the substance before the onset of allergic symptoms. Sometimes, the person has no knowledge of prior exposure. In these cases, exposure could have been from the environment (breathing in some particles of the food, for example) or, potentially, in utero from the mother’s diet.

Mom + nuts = fewer kid allergies

The new study investigated the diets of mothers around the time of their pregnancies and the subsequent development of peanut and tree nut allergies in their children. They found:

Of 8,205 children in the study, 140 were diagnosed with a peanut or tree nut allergy.
Children of mothers without a nut allergy, who ate the highest amount of nuts (five or more servings per week) around the time of their pregnancies were 69% less likely to develop nut allergies during childhood than those born to mothers who ate the least amount of nuts (less than one serving per month).
Children born to mothers with a peanut or tree nut allergy were more likely to develop a nut allergy if their mothers ate peanuts or tree nuts around the time of pregnancy.

Revisiting the recommendations

For years, pediatricians have recommended that parents delay introducing peanuts and tree nuts until children are three years old, to decrease the chance of allergy. However, while some studies have shown that avoiding these foods may decrease allergy risk, others have shown the opposite: that delaying the introduction of highly allergenic foods may increase the risk of food allergy.

“Our study supports the hypothesis that early allergen exposure increases the likelihood of tolerance and thereby lowers the risk of childhood food allergy,” said lead study author, Dr. Michael Young of Boston Children’s Hospital, adding “our data support the recent decisions to rescind recommendations that all mothers avoid peanuts and tree nuts during pregnancy and breast-feeding.”

These recommendations go for other foods, too. According to the American Academy of Asthma, Allergy, and Immunology, “There are no current data available to suggest that cow’s milk protein (except for whole cow’s milk), egg, soy, wheat, peanut, tree nuts, fish and shellfish introduction into the diet need to be delayed beyond four to six months of age.”

About Natural Products Foundation: NPF is a 501 (c) 3 not-for-profit corporation. For more information visit the Foundation online: naturalproductsfoundation.org.

Story Source: Kimberly Beauchamp, ND, received her doctoral degree from Bastyr University, the nation’s premier academic institution for science-based natural medicine. She co-founded South County Naturopaths in Wakefield, RI, where she practiced whole family care with an emphasis on nutritional counseling, herbal medicine, detoxification, and food allergy identification and treatment. Her blog, Eat Happy, helps take the drama out of healthy eating with real food recipes and nutrition news that you can use. Dr. Beauchamp is a regular contributor to Healthnotes Newswire. The above story is reprinted from materials provided by Aisle7. All rights reserved.

References: JAMA Pediatrics;doi:10.1001/jamapediatrics.2013.4139

NPF Science Update: Green Tea

Thu, 13 Feb 2014 10:00:00 +0000

Don't Mix Green Tea and This Blood Pressure Medication

By Suzanne Dixon, MPH, MS, RD

Drug-nutrient interactions occur when a nutrient or other natural substance—from a food, beverage, herb, or dietary supplement—alters the effects of a medication in the body. It’s important to better understand when and how these interactions arise, because they can be harmful. Researchers have uncovered a drug-nutrient interaction with the blood pressure medication nadolol (brand name Corgard) and a popular beverage: green tea.

The how & why

The study authors invited ten healthy adult volunteers to drink approximately 24 ounces of green tea or water daily, for two weeks. After the two-week period, the green tea group took 30 mg of nadolol with 12 ounces of green tea, while the water group took 30 mg of nadolol with 12 ounces of water. Participants drank another 12 ounces of green tea or water 30 minutes after taking nadolol.

This was followed by a two-week washout period of no green tea, after which the participants switched groups. In this way, all ten volunteers participated in both the water and the green tea phases of the study.

Compared with the two-week water phase of the study, participants in the green tea phase experienced significantly:

lower blood concentrations of nadolol

lower urinary excretion of nadolol

less blood pressure–lowering effect from nadolol

Savvy consumers make good patients

This study found that consuming about 3 cups of green tea daily for two weeks, followed by taking the blood pressure medication nadolol with green tea, significantly reduced both the amount of medication circulating in the body and the ability of the medication to lower blood pressure.

Use these tips to better understand how these study results apply to you.

Be consistent. If you take prescription or over-the-counter medications to manage a health condition, take your medication at the same time each day with the same beverage and meal.

Be alert. If you notice that a medication that normally works well for you isn’t working so well anymore, consider recent changes to your diet, exercise habits, or the dietary supplements you are using. For example, maybe your blood sugars are running higher despite taking your diabetes medications as usual, or your blood pressure is creeping up even though you’re taking the same blood pressure medication. This might be a clue that something new in your diet or routine is interfering with your medication. Or it may be an “off” batch of medication, which also needs to be addressed.

Consult an expert. If you do notice changes in how your medications are working, discuss this with your pharmacist or doctor. He or she can help you sort out what changes in your daily habits may be contributing to the change in your medication efficacy.

Be curious. For any new medication you’re prescribed, specifically ask your doctor and your pharmacist if there are any dietary or other precautions you need to follow. For example, grapefruit juice interacts with many different medications, yet you may not learn this if you don’t ask which foods, beverages, or other substances are of concern.

Read regularly. Periodically read the materials that come with your usual prescriptions. Information changes, and you’ll pick up new precautions that may not have been known or noted when you first began taking the medication.

Story Source: Suzanne Dixon, MPH, MS, RD, an author, speaker, and internationally recognized expert in chronic disease prevention, epidemiology, and nutrition, has taught medical, nursing, public health, and alternative medicine coursework. She has delivered over 150 invited lectures to health professionals and consumers and is the creator of a nutrition website acclaimed by theNew York Times and Time magazine. Suzanne received her training in epidemiology and nutrition at the University of Michigan, School of Public Health at Ann Arbor. The above story is reprinted from materials provided by Aisle7. All rights reserved.

References: Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics; online 13 January 2014; doi:10.1038/clpt.2013.241

Natural Products Foundation meets with Regulatory Agencies

Tue, 04 Feb 2014 10:00:00 +0000

Truth in Advertising Program Refers 40 Cases to FTC and FDA

Marc Ullman, chairman of the Natural Products Foundation Legal Advisory Council, met with representatives of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in January to present documentation highlighting 40 advertisers responsible for making drug claims on behalf of dietary supplements. The cases were also brought to the attention of representatives at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The 40 organizations referred to the federal agencies failed to amend marketing materials after being contacted by the NPF Truth in Advertising Program. NPF requested that the agencies take action against all non-compliant companies, including the most recent Truth in Advertising referrals.

“NPF is pleased with the continued feedback and interest our Truth in Advertising initiative has received over the past four years from FTC and FDA,” noted Mr. Ullman. “We are working aggressively to maintain advertising standards within the industry, and to rehabilitate problems we see from the inside. Since 2010, this program has sent 400 warning letters to companies with illegal claims in their advertising. Every year we find the advertisers increasingly receptive and open to our message of reform. Changes are made day-to-day, improving the larger picture for the industry, and protecting consumers from false or misleading information.”

The NPF Truth in Advertising Program works to educate publishers, manufacturers, suppliers, and retailers to help ensure that consumers receive accurate information about dietary supplements. In 2013, as part of the Truth in Advertising initiative, NPF reviewed 275 advertising cases suspected to be problematic and mailed 150 warning letters to companies marketing dietary supplements with illegal drug and disease claims.

“With the Foundation’s education outreach and guidance, a large majority of advertisers are able to correct and improve their materials without issue,” stated Ullman. “Most cases result in positive action; however, if companies are unwilling to bring advertising into compliance after glaring problems have surfaced, then the only option left is regulatory action. As responsible industry members we feel it is vital to sit down with regulators, highlight the trends we’re seeing in the field, identify the pitfalls, and to work through individually detailed case histories.”

Since 2010, 74% of warning letter recipients have acknowledged the problems highlighted by NPF investigation and worked to revise their promotional content and advertising practices. Over the four-year course of the program, Truth in Advertising has overseen 600 advertising case reviews. Truth in Advertising Review is initiated by NPF staff members under the supervision of the NPF Legal Advisory Council.

“The NPF Legal Advisory Council is composed of dedicated lawyers who volunteer their time to help monitor problems and educate members of our industry,” said Ullman. “This is a great example of the supplement industry’s commitment to compliance and self-regulation.”

Current Legal Advisory Council volunteers are Mr. Ullman of Ullman, Shapiro & Ullman, New York; William Garvin of Buchanan, Ingersoll & Rooney PC, Washington, D.C.; Jackie Kuler of Gronek & Associates, Chicago; Nicholas Licato, General Counsel at Nexgen Pharma; and Jim Prochnow and Justin Prochnow of Greenberg Traurig, Denver.

The Truth in Advertising Program provides resources and guidance to industry members so that the information presented to consumers concerning dietary supplements is truthful and not misleading. Resources are highlighted on the NPF industry-oriented webpage: naturalproductsfoundation.org/truth.

“NPF aims to improve the overall standard of supplement advertising,” stated David Brown, chairman of the NPF Board of Directors. “We continue our industry outreach knowing the absolute importance of honest advertising for both the well-being of consumers and the sustained integrity of all natural products.”

NPF Science Update: Supplement Research

Thu, 16 Jan 2014 10:00:00 +0000

"Stop Wasting Money" Editorial Ignores Full Body of Supplement Research

By Suzanne Dixon, MPH, MS, RD

An editorial published in the Annals of Internal Medicine urges people to “stop wasting money on vitamin and mineral supplements” and concludes, “the case is closed.” While the particular studies in question did show negative findings for a short list of health conditions in certain populations, this opinion provides a narrow view of the depth and breadth of supplement research. It also ignores the complex relationship between nutrition and health and potentially leaves many people unnecessarily confused about supplements.

Overview of the overview

The editorial discusses three papers published in the same issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine that evaluate the effects of multivitamin and mineral supplements on new and recurrent cases of heart disease, and on the risk of cancer and mental (cognitive) decline:

Study 1. Exploring whether vitamin supplements prevent heart disease and cancer in healthy older adults, this paper reviewed 3 multivitamin trials and 24 single or paired vitamins trials that included over 400,000 randomly assigned participants. Though the editorial authors concluded there was no evidence of reduced chance of death from any cause, cardiovascular disease, or cancer, the review actually did find that supplements significantly reduced cancer risk—by 6%—in men.

Study 2. Looking at how well a daily multivitamin might prevent cognitive decline among participants in the Physicians’ Health Study II (5,947 men aged 65 years or older), this paper found no differences in thinking (cognitive) function between the vitamin and nonvitamin groups. However, other published findings from this very same study population have demonstrated that multivitamins may reduce the risk of cancer and cataracts.

Study 3. Considering whether taking multivitamins and minerals after a heart attack (myocardial infarction) might reduce risk of further heart attacks, this study did not show a benefit. However, the study authors themselves concluded that “nonadherence to the study regimen” rendered the results inconclusive.

Taking the broader viewpoint

With high healthcare costs and the risks of side effects from many common drugs, consumers are well advised to consider all safe potential health resources available, including supplements. Here are some variables not factored into the editorial:

Other studies have found a positive association between supplements and reduced heart disease and cancer risks, including well-designed double-blind research.

Plenty of studies have shown therapeutic support for many other conditions not considered by the editorial, including osteoporosis, macular degeneration, anemia, high cholesterol, mood disorders, and many more.

Supplements have been found to help correct common deficiencies, proactively protecting against conditions that often accompany deficiencies.

Supplement effects are also influenced by intake amount and product quality, which were not taken into account.

Research has shown that certain therapeutic effects of nutrients require higher intake amounts than a person would ordinarily get with food or in a multivitamin.

Taking a multivitamin helps safeguard against dietary gaps.

Consider the full body of research

By ignoring the positive and inconclusive results in these studies and not considering other research showing well-established benefits, this editorial presents an incomplete view to the public and suggests a biased assessment of the research not shared even by doctors involved in the studies in question. Dr. Howard Sesso, MD, a lead researcher on the Physicians’ Health Study II, noted that, “because of the possible cancer-related benefits tied to multivitamins, they are still worth considering, in particular for people who may not get enough vitamins in their diet.” Dr. J. Michael Gaziano, a Physician at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, is a lead researcher on the Physicians' Health Study, and a co-author on one of the papers prompting the editorial. Dr. Gaziano told USA Today, “It drives me crazy that they say 'enough is enough,' when there's only been one large study of (standard) multivitamins and it's ours.”

No single analysis of the research can uncover the full complexity of the effects of nutrients—from dietary supplements or food—on total health. In the end, rather than close the book on dietary supplements solely on the basis of one questionable editorial opinion, it makes sense to consider the full body of evidence as well as your own personal health needs. Eat healthfully, exercise regularly, and work with a qualified healthcare practitioner to create a health plan that works for you.

About Natural Products Foundation: NPF is a 501 (c) 3 not-for-profit corporation. For more information visit the Foundation online: naturalproductsfoundation.org.

Story Source: Suzanne Dixon, MPH, MS, RD, an author, speaker, and internationally recognized expert in chronic disease prevention, epidemiology, and nutrition, has taught medical, nursing, public health, and alternative medicine coursework. She has delivered over 150 invited lectures to health professionals and consumers and is the creator of a nutrition website acclaimed by theNew York Times and Time magazine. Suzanne received her training in epidemiology and nutrition at the University of Michigan, School of Public Health at Ann Arbor. The above story is reprinted from materials provided by Aisle7. All rights reserved.

References: Ann Intern Med 2013;159:850-1

Truth in Advertising Expands Education Outreach

Thu, 12 Dec 2013 11:00:00 +0000

The Natural Products Foundation (NPF) has finalized its fourth year of the Truth in Advertising Program, an ambitious initiative designed to help industry members present accurate promotions and information about natural products to consumers.

“The NPF Truth in Advertising program clearly demonstrates that members of our industry are responsible and support ongoing educational efforts to ensure broad knowledge of truth in advertising standards,” stated NPF chairman David Brown at SupplySide West in November. “We are aggressively working to ensure that advertising is in compliance with existing regulations.”

Truth in Advertising educates publishers, manufacturers, suppliers, and retailers to help ensure that the information presented to consumers concerning dietary supplements is truthful and not misleading.

“I’m happy to report that the vast majority of companies in this industry are knowledgeable, responsible, and want to do the right thing,” said Brown. “More and more, companies don’t just want to do well, they want to do good. They want to do the right thing, and so they’re taking steps to make sure that they’re in compliance.”

In 2013, NPF reviewed 275 advertising cases and mailed 150 warning letters to companies responsible for marketing dietary supplements with illegal drug and disease claims.

“There are some companies that are well-intended, but maybe they’re inexperienced, maybe they are relatively newcomers, and don’t have a lot of resources, and so in their ignorance and in their zeal, they say things that they really shouldn’t say,” stated Brown. “They are pretty easy to deal with. We point out their deficiencies and the way that they’re not compliant by utilizing some of the industry’s top legal minds and authorities, who work with us on a pro-bono basis, to help these companies get into compliance. In the vast majority of cases, as soon as we point out the things that need to be fixed, they go ahead and make those changes.”

Since 2010, 73.5% of warning letter recipients have acknowledged the problems highlighted and worked to revise their promotional content and advertising practices. Over the course of the program, Truth in Advertising has initiated 575 advertising case reviews and mailed 385 warning letters.

The Truth in Advertising Program is overseen by NPF Legal Advisory Council Chairman Marc Ullman and NPF Executive Director Deb Knowles. The Truth in Advertising Review is initiated by NPF staff members under the supervision of the NPF Legal Advisory Council.

“The NPF Legal Advisory Council is composed of dedicated lawyers who volunteer their time to help monitor problems and educate members of our industry,” said Marc Ullman. “This is a shining example of our industry’s commitment to self-improvement.”

To learn more, please visit naturalproductsfoundation.org/truth!

NPF Science Update: Yac?n Syrup

Wed, 11 Dec 2013 10:00:00 +0000

The Yacón Syrup Story

By Suzanne Dixon, MPH, MS, RD

Yacón syrup is a sweetener derived from the root of the yacón (Smallanthus sonchifolius) plant that, according to the latest buzz, can help shed excess pounds. Though it’s a bit premature to proclaim yacón syrup a weight loss miracle, it does boast nutrients known to provide health benefits.

Promise in prebiotics

The yacón plant grows in the Andes mountains of South America and has a long history of medicinal use—for diabetes and digestive disorders—among indigenous people living in these areas. Yacón syrup is rich in prebiotics, a type of fiber that fuels the formation of healthy bacteria of the human gastrointestinal tract. Yacón is a good source of polyphenols as well, which are nutrients found in a variety of plant foods and beverages, such as red wine, green tea, and berries. Polyphenol-rich diets are associated with reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.

The major type of prebiotics found in yacón are FOS (fructooligosaccharides) also found in many common plant foods, such as leeks, onions, and asparagus. FOS are not readily digested and so reach the colon largely intact. Once in the colon, FOS are fermented to short-chain fatty acids, which support healthful gut bacteria growth and inhibit the growth of harmful, disease-causing bacteria.

FOS provide just 2 calories per gram, instead of the usual 4 for most carbohydrates. This means that as a sweetener, yacón syrup provides about 20 calories per tablespoon, compared with 48 calories for a tablespoon of sugar, and 64 for honey. FOS are soluble fiber, and can increase stool bulk and potentially minimize constipation.

Will the syrup slim you?

Studies in mice and rats support the notion that FOS from yacón root may improve insulin sensitivity and levels of cholesterol and other blood fats in animals with diabetes, but much more research is needed to better understand if these results are applicable to humans.

Of the three human studies currently available, two examined safety and short-term effects on how quickly food moves through the gastrointestinal tract (colon transit time). One small, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in 55 obese women does suggest that FOS from yacón syrup may improve the odds of losing pounds. According to this study, 140 mg of FOS from yacón syrup per kg of body weight per day (that’s 60 mg per pound) improved fasting insulin levels, body weight, and waist circumference. On average, the yacón syrup group lost 33 pounds in three months, while the control group gained about three and a half pounds in the same period.

For reference, 60 mg of FOS per pound translates to around 11 grams of FOS for a person weighing 180 pounds, or a little more than one-third of an ounce of FOS from yacón syrup per day.

Should you say yes to yacón?

The early word on yacón syrup is certainly interesting, though much more research is needed to better understand how this sweetener works and who might best benefit from using it. Keep the following in mind before deciding if yacón syrup is right for you:

Work with your doctor. If you take medications to manage diabetes or insulin resistance, talk to your doctor before using yacón products. If you add in FOS without accounting for their insulin-sensitizing effects, you may end up with low blood sugar levels.

Go slow. FOS may cause uncomfortable gastrointestinal effects, such as gas, in many people. Use sparingly and work up to higher amounts to minimize these issues.

Seek food. Yacón isn’t the only way to get FOS. Other FOS-rich foods include bananas, onions, chicory root, garlic, barley, oats, asparagus, leeks, and dandelion greens. Aim for a varied diet with plenty of plant foods and you’ll naturally increase your FOS intake.

Seek balance. While yacón syrup may help some people lose a few pounds, even the best diet aid is useless unless combined with balanced nutrition and regular physical activity.

Story Source: Suzanne Dixon, MPH, MS, RD, an author, speaker, and internationally recognized expert in chronic disease prevention, epidemiology, and nutrition, has taught medical, nursing, public health, and alternative medicine coursework. She has delivered over 150 invited lectures to health professionals and consumers and is the creator of a nutrition website acclaimed by theNew York Times and Time magazine. Suzanne received her training in epidemiology and nutrition at the University of Michigan, School of Public Health at Ann Arbor. The above story is reprinted from materials provided by Aisle7. All rights reserved.

References: Dig Liver Dis 2002;34:S111-20; Clin Nutr 2009;28:182-7; J Diabetes Metab Disord 2013;12:28

NPF Science Update: Probiotics

Thu, 17 Oct 2013 10:00:00 +0000

Early Probiotics Protects Kids from Allergies and Eczema

By Kimberly Beauchamp, ND

Children whose diets include probiotics up to age two and whose mothers took probiotics when pregnant are less likely to have eczema or allergies at age six, reports a study in Clinical and Experimental Allergy.

An allergic threesome

People with allergies are more likely to also have eczema and hay fever (allergic rhinitis)—sometimes referred to as the allergic triad. Children are at higher risk for developing these conditions if one or both parents have allergies.

Gut health and allergies

About 80% of the immune system is located in the gut. Here, the body is exposed to different substances that “challenge” the immune system. It’s thought that beneficial gut bacteria (probiotics) help prime the immune system to respond appropriately to foreign invaders and not to react to things that it shouldn’t. Misdirected immune responses could show up as allergic conditions or as autoimmune disorders.

Earlier research by the authors of the new trial showed that pregnant women and babies up to two years old who supplemented with a probiotic decreased the child’s risk of eczema at two and four years.

The new study looked at these same children at age six to see if the effect on eczema prevention persisted. The researchers also tested the children’s sensitivity to common allergens and assessed the presence of asthma, wheeze, and runny nose.

Since different probiotics target different parts of the body, the study compared the effects two probiotic strains, Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium animalis (subspecies lactis), with placebo.

The prevalence of eczema was significantly lower among children taking theLactobacillus supplement compared with Bifidobacterium and placebo, and eczema severity improved significantly in the Lactobacillus group compared with placebo.
Allergic sensitization followed a similar pattern, with no change in the Bifidobacteriumgroup and significant improvements in the Lactobacillus group compared with placebo.
Lactobacillus seemed to confer protection against the development of inhalant allergies (such as dust mites, grass pollen, and animal dander) but had no effect on food allergies.
Neither probiotic had an effect on asthma, wheeze, or runny nose.

“A long-term effect of Lactobacillus rhamnosus against atopic sensitization at six years suggests that this probiotic had immunomodulatory effects during the first two years of life which have persisted to the sixth year,” concluded the researchers.

Stop allergies before they start

Try these tips to cut your child’s risk of developing allergies:

Breast-feed your baby. Breast-feeding helps protect babies from many infections that the nursing mother has come into contact with, boosting baby’s natural immune defenses. Several studies have also linked breast-feeding with protection from asthma, eczema, and food allergies.

Feed them fish. Babies who are given fish before nine months of age are 24% less likely to develop eczema than babies introduced to it later.

Give probiotics a try. Check with a practitioner who’s knowledgeable about natural therapeutics for a specific recommendation.

References: Clin Exp Allergy 2013;43:1048-57

NPF Science Update: Gluten

Thu, 12 Sep 2013 10:00:00 +0000

FDA Releases Long-Awaited Gluten-Free Guidelines

By Suzanne Dixon, MPH, MS, RD

For the estimated 1% of people worldwide with celiac disease, completely avoiding the gluten protein found in wheat, rye, and barley is the only way to effectively manage the condition and prevent the damaging autoimmune response that occurs with gluten exposure. And it’s become increasingly popular to give the body a break from gluten for other reasons, with some people claiming to experience decreased inflammation in or finding the gluten-free eating model an easier way to limit carbohydrates.

It might seem like avoiding gluten is as easy as reading a few labels, but until now the lack of a concrete “gluten-free” definition has made that task complicated. Shedding much-needed light on the issue, the United States Food and Drug Administration has released a new regulation defining the term "gluten-free" for voluntary food labeling.

Not quite zero

The FDA regulation stipulates that in order to be labeled “gluten-free,” a food must contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten. Foods with the claims “no gluten,” “free of gluten,” and “without gluten” also must have less than 20 parts per million to meet the “gluten-free” definition.

Some in the celiac disease community are crying foul, because they only consider something truly gluten-free if it never had gluten in the first place. However, per the new FDA definition, even foods and beverages that originally contained significant quantities of gluten can be labeled gluten-free, so long as they are processed to bring gluten levels in the final product down to less than 20 parts per million.

As an example of how this works, some breweries brew beer in the conventional way, using gluten-containing grains, then employ a process that removes the gluten from the finished beverage to bring the levels down to less than 20 parts per million. This beer is considered gluten-free per the new FDA definition.

Why not zero?

The 20 parts per million definition is based on the scientific consensus that even people with celiac disease will not react to gluten at a concentration of less than 20 parts per million. However, if you want to keep your gluten exposure as close to zero as possible, stick to tried and true ways of avoiding it:

Read labels. With the new rules, something labeled gluten-free may have begun with a gluten-containing ingredient. If you want to avoid foods that fall into this category, avoid items in the ingredient list with wheat, barley, and rye, and its many guises, such as bulgur, durum, faro, spelt, kamut, gram flour, semolina, seitan, triticale, einkorn, and farina.

Identify possible culprits. Gluten can hide in a variety of items, including beer, lager, ale, soups, broths, flavored coffees and teas, medications, salad dressings, processed and lunch meats, seasonings, and sauces. Again, even if labeled gluten-free, these items may have begun life as a gluten-containing product, which was processed to meet the new 20-parts-per-million rule.

Test it out. The new definition is based on science, so it’s very likely you can eat any of the foods now labeled gluten-free without issue. If you want to do a trial run of the new labeling criteria, slowly introduce a food or drink that originally was made with a gluten-containing grain, then brought down to less than 20 parts per million of gluten through final processing. Keep a detailed food and symptom record. If you notice a flare up of symptoms, you may need to stick with your original, gluten-free eating plan.

Story Source: Suzanne Dixon, MPH, MS, RD, an author, speaker, and internationally recognized expert in chronic disease prevention, epidemiology, and nutrition, has taught medical, nursing, public health, and alternative medicine coursework. She has delivered over 150 invited lectures to health professionals and consumers and is the creator of a nutrition website acclaimed by theNew York Times and Time magazine. Suzanne received her training in epidemiology and nutrition at the University of Michigan, School of Public Health at Ann Arbor. The above story is reprinted from materials provided by Aisle7. All rights reserved.

References: FDA News Release; FDA defines “gluten-free” for food labeling. Accessed August 8, 2013: www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/UCM363474.htm

NPF Expands Legal Advisory Council

Thu, 05 Sep 2013 10:00:00 +0000

Foundation Welcomes William Garvin of Buchanan, Ingersoll & Rooney PC

Washington, D. C. — The Natural Products Foundation (NPF) has announced the addition of a new member to the NPF Legal Advisory Council: William Garvin of Buchanan, Ingersoll & Rooney PC.

William Garvin focuses his practice on issues related to the approval, regulation, promotion, sale, and reimbursement of drugs, medical devices, biologics, excipients, dietary supplements, and foods. William's work includes challenging administrative agency actions through correspondence, citizen petitions, and litigation. He has extensive experience in assisting companies with complying and contesting administrative agency actions and regulations at both the federal and state level. Prior to joining Buchanan, William was an associate with a boutique law firm in Washington, D.C. where he worked on matters related to ensuring that foods, drugs, dietary supplements, medical devices, and cosmetics complied with federal and state laws.

The NPF Legal Advisory Council (LAC) is composed of attorneys who volunteer their time to help improve the dietary supplement industry’s advertising practices. LAC members are instrumental in NPF’s Truth in Advertising work, supervising the highly successful review component of the program. Current council members include Marc Ullman (Ullman, Shapiro & Ullman), Jackie Kuler (Gronek & Associates), Nicholas Licato (Nexgen Pharma), Jim Prochnow (Greenberg Traurig), and Justin Prochnow (Greenberg Traurig)

“I am honored to be invited to join the NPF’s Legal Advisory Council,” said Garvin. “I believe in the NPF’s goal of educating the industry and ensuring that all dietary supplement companies continue to comply with the law. NPF’s successful self-regulation of the dietary supplement industry helps ensure this economic sectors’ continued growth.”

The NPF Truth in Advertising Review Program is a pro-active effort that identifies non-compliant dietary supplement promotions and provides education outreach to ensure industry members comply with Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) regulations. Since 2010, NPF has reviewed 500 advertising cases, mailed more than 300 warning letters to companies marketing dietary supplements with drug- and disease-related statements, and worked with 225 companies to improve marketing policies.

The NPF Truth in Advertising Review is an efficient program founded in the industry’s commitment to honest, accurate promotions, creating real improvements in dietary supplement advertising. For further info on the review program and advertising guidelines, please visit: naturalproductsfoundation.org/truth.

NPF Science Update: Ginkgo

Thu, 15 Aug 2013 10:00:00 +0000

Ginkgo: What's Its Safety Profile?

By Suzanne Dixon, MPH, MS, RD

Recent headlines have questioned Gingko biloba’s safety, only to be challenged by natural health practitioners who say the remedy is safe and potentially effective for improving a range of conditions, including age-related memory impairment and dementia, eye problems associated with diabetes (diabetic retinopathy), premenstrual syndrome (PMS), vertigo, and glaucoma. Who’s right? Putting the latest research into context can help you better understand the big picture on ginkgo.

Of mice and men (and rats)

Researchers conducted toxicology studies of standardized Ginkgo biloba extracts in 100 rats and 100 mice. For two years, the animals were fed corn oil solutions containing varying amounts of Ginkgo biloba, through a tube inserted into the stomach.

The rats received 0, 100, 300, or 1,000 mg of ginkgo extract per kilogram of body weight, administered five days per week. The mice received 0, 200, 600, or 2,000 mg of ginkgo per kilogram of body weight, administered five days per week. At the end of the two-year study, the animals were dissected, and tissues from 40 areas in each animal’s body were examined for abnormalities.

The findings, detailed extensively in a 191-page report, note, “We conclude thatGinkgo biloba extract caused cancers of the thyroid gland in male and female rats and male mice and cancers of the liver in male and female mice.” This is concerning, but does it mean ginkgo causes cancer in humans?

Getting down to details

While popular media reports suggest Ginkgo biloba is now a proven carcinogen (cancer causing substance) that should be removed from the market, the details paint a more nuanced picture. Before you toss your ginkgo supplements, consider the following:

Note the dose. Recommended human doses for Ginkgo supplements range from 30 to 240 mg per day, regardless of body weight. The study animals received up to 1,100 times this amount—the amount of ginkgo (by body weight) that would be appropriate for an “average,” 150-pound person.

Count the years. According to rodent experts, each rat or mouse year is roughly equivalent to 30 human years. In other words, the animals were given massive doses of Ginkgo biloba for nearly their entire lifespans—what would be equivalent to a person taking 500 to 1,000 times the amount of a typical Ginkgo biloba supplement, for 60 years.

Consider history. In the 1970s, rat studies linked saccharin with bladder cancer risk, prompting a warning label on saccharin-containing foods, “saccharin has been determined to cause cancer in laboratory animals.” Further study indicated these results were not applicable to humans, and the high doses originally tested weren’t representative of typical human use. In 2000, saccharin was removed from the National Toxicology Program’s Report on Carcinogens list. While no one would argue that saccharin is “good for you,” this episode illustrates how animal toxicology research can lead to erroneous conclusions about human health.

Aim for the middle ground. For every vitamin, mineral, and phytonutrient tested, optimal intake levels are neither too high, nor too low. Consider some examples: Not enough vitamin A can lead to blindness, infections, and even death. Too much vitamin A can lead to osteoporosis, birth defects, liver failure, and death. Getting plenty of folate before and during pregnancy is vital for preventing birth defects, yet too much folate, particularly as folic acid—found in supplements and fortified foods—has been linked with increased risk of some types of cancer. It should come as no surprise that long-term use of excessively high doses of any substance, including Ginkgo biloba, causes measurable adverse health effects.

Consult your health provider. In the end, a single, high-dose toxicology study does not prove Ginkgo biloba causes cancer, particularly for a natural product with a long history of safe use. If you have concerns about ginkgo, or any dietary product you currently use or want to try, talk to your doctor, nurse, or dietitian about this.

Story Source: Suzanne Dixon, MPH, MS, RD, an author, speaker, and internationally recognized expert in chronic disease prevention, epidemiology, and nutrition, has taught medical, nursing, public health, and alternative medicine coursework. She has delivered over 150 invited lectures to health professionals and consumers and is the creator of a nutrition website acclaimed by theNew York Times and Time magazine. Suzanne received her training in epidemiology and nutrition at the University of Michigan, School of Public Health at Ann Arbor. The above story is reprinted from materials provided by Aisle7. All rights reserved.

References: NTP Technical Report on the Toxicology and Carcinogenesis Studies of Ginkgo Biloba Extract in F344/N Rats and B6C3F1/N Mice. March 2013. NIH Publication No. 13-5920. Accessed June 18, 2013: http://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/ntp/htdocs/LT_rpts/TR578_508.pdf

NPF Science Update: Folic Acid

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 10:00:00 +0000

Pregnancy News: Folic Acid Linked to Lower Autism Risk

By Jane Hart, MD

The amount and timing of folic acid supplementation may both play a role in a pregnant woman’s risk of having a child with autism. A study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that a child’s autism risk was about 40% lower when their mothers took higher amounts of folic acid in pregnancy, particularly around the time of conception.

The importance of timing and amount

In this study, researchers looked at the folic acid intake of 837 mothers of children 2 to 5 years old who were enrolled in the Childhood Autism Risks from Genetics and Environment (CHARGE) study. Specifically, they looked at how much folic acid these women had consumed through supplements and cereals during the three months prior to and throughout pregnancy. The incidence of autism and delayed development were identified in the children of these women.

Results showed that women who took 600 mcg or more of folic acid each day during the first month of pregnancy had about a 40% lower risk of having a child with autism spectrum disorder compared with women who took less than that amount. These findings were strongest for participants with a specific genetic variant that interferes with folate metabolism, which was about 60% of the women.

The study authors comment, “Our findings are consistent with research that indicates folic acid's importance in improving childhood behavioral outcomes.” They add that there is a critical time period during which it is important for women to get enough folic acid and conclude that getting enough around the time of conception was linked to the greatest protective effect.

Folic acid’s healthy effects

Further evidence supports supplementation. Research suggests that folic acid supplementation in women of childbearing age is essential for helping prevent neural tube defects such as spina bifida. Though more research is still needed, preliminary research suggests that getting enough folic acid may be important for preventing behavioral conditions such as autism.

It’s important to get enough folic acid. The study authors point out that more than 95% of women of childbearing age in the United States eat less than 400 mcg of folic acid from foods each day, and they add that “the bioavailability of dietary folate is less than 60% that of folic acid” from supplements. As a result, they suggest that women eating only folate from food would probably be in the lowest category of folic acid intake, making it important that women in their childbearing years follow their doctors’/obstetricians’ advice regarding folic acid supplementation to make sure they are getting enough. Research suggests that it is essential to start supplementation well before becoming pregnant.

A mix of nutrients is important. It’s important to realize that it is not only folic acid that is important for a baby’s health but rather a variety of nutrients that add to their health and development. Taking all prescribed prenatal vitamins and minerals and eating a healthy diet rich in whole foods will help provide the mix of nutrients that are needed.

Talk with a healthcare professional. If you are a woman of childbearing age, talk with a doctor or nutritionist about the importance of folic acid and other prenatal vitamins to help optimize the health of your baby.

Story Source: Jane Hart, MD, board-certified in internal medicine, serves in a variety of professional roles including consultant, journalist, and educator. Dr. Hart, a Clinical Instructor at Case Medical School in Cleveland, Ohio, writes extensively about health and wellness and a variety of other topics for nationally recognized organizations, websites, and print publications. Sought out for her expertise in the areas of integrative and preventive medicine, she is frequently quoted by national and local media. Dr. Hart is a professional lecturer for healthcare professionals, consumers, and youth and is a regular corporate speaker. The above story is reprinted from materials provided by Aisle7. All rights reserved.

References: Am J Clin Nutr 2012;96:80-9

NPF Science Update: CLA

Thu, 09 May 2013 10:00:00 +0000

Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA):
Beyond Weight Loss

By Rebecca Schauer, RD

Conjugated linoleic acids (CLA) are naturally occurring free fatty acids derived from the tissues and milk of ruminant animals such as cows.

Supplemental CLA has made a name for itself as a body fat reducer and weight loss aid under the brand Tonalin® CLA. In this capacity, CLA blocks the enzyme lipoprotein lipase that assists in fat storage of dietary fats and helps divert unused fat to muscle cells. CLA then activates another enzyme that helps muscles to burn this fat, especially during exercise.

Research, however, has shown that CLA supplements have good potential beyond the weight loss market.

Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is a digestive condition triggered by consumption of the protein gluten, which is primarily found in foods containing wheat, barley, or rye. People with celiac disease who eat foods containing gluten experience an immune reaction in their small intestines, causing damage to the inner surface of the small intestine and an inability to absorb certain nutrients.

According to research in mice, supplementation with CLA may be beneficial in fighting oxidative stress associated with celiac disease. In a 2011 study published in Molecular Nutrition and Food Research, scientists identified a novel mechanism by which gluten disturbs several pivotal intestinal defenses, and discovered the potential therapeutic efficacy of CLA against gluten-mediated toxicity. This beneficial effect of CLA against the depletion of crucial intestinal cell-protective defenses indicates a novel nutritional approach for the treatment of intestinal disease.

Crohn’s Disease

Crohn’s disease is a digestive condition marked by inflammation and irritation in the intestines. Symptoms include pain, bloating, and diarrhea, and the condition may lead to narrowing of the digestive tract as result of scar tissue build up. Diseased areas of the gut tend not to absorb nutrients efficiently, leading to malnutrition. The exact cause of Crohn’s is unknown, although hereditary and immune factors appear to play a role.

In conventional medicine, Crohn’s is treated with anti-inflammatory drugs that suppress the immune system such as steroids; thus effective natural remedies for Crohn’s are greatly needed.

A study published in Clinical Nutrition and conducted by researchers at Virginia Tech found that Crohn’s patients who took supplementary CLA at 6 grams daily for 12 weeks had significant improvements in both quality of life and in disease activity. It has been shown that CLA has anti-inflammatory effects, which explains its benefits in Crohn’s patients. CLA does this by converting to DHA and EPA inside the body, both of which have powerful anti-inflammatory properties.

Asthma

Asthma symptoms are caused by irritation and inflammation of the airways. Asthmatics get asthma because they produce much higher levels of leukotriene compounds - highly inflammatory compounds naturally produced by the immune system.

In a study published in Clinical and Experimental Allergy, a dose of 4.5 grams of CLA per day improved airway hyper-reactivity in asthmatics. It also had favorable effects on body weight, which may have a secondary effect on improving asthma symptoms.

In Summary

Average intake of CLA has fallen over the years due to changes in the Western diet, making supplementation of interest to many. CLA has multiple biological properties apart from roles in metabolism and weight loss, including regulation of immune processes as well as tissue inflammation.

Story Source: Rebecca Schauer, RD, is the Supplement Technical Director for Vitamer and VitaCeutical Labs, divisions of Nexgen Pharma, Inc., and providers of high quality private label dietary supplements to retail outlets including grocery and natural food stores.

References: MacRedmond, R., et al (2010), Conjugated linoleic acid improves airway hyper-reactivity in overweight mild asthmatics. Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 40: 1071–1078. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2222.2010.03531.x.

Bergamo, P., et al (2011), Conjugated linoleic acid protects against gliadin-induced depletion of intestinal defenses. Mol. Nutr. Food Res., 55: S248–S256. doi: 10.1002/mnfr.201100295.

Bassaganya-Riera, J., et al (2012), Conjugated linoleic acid modulates immune responses in patients with mild to moderately active Crohn’s disease. Clinical Nutrition, 31: 721-727. doi:10.1016/j.clnu.2012.03.002.

NPF Science Update: Yeast Extract

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0000

Stressed Out? Yeast Extract May Support Mood and Immune Function

By Maureen Williams, ND

Persistent stress takes a toll, making the body and mind vulnerable to infection and mood disorders such as as anxiety and depression. Effective stress management might include taking a yeast extract, according to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition. The study found that women under moderately intense psychological stress had better moods, higher energy levels, and fewer infections when they took a supplement containing beta-glucan from baker’s yeast.

Beta-glucan to battle stress

Beta-glucans are polysaccharides, or fibers, found in foods such as mushrooms, oat bran and other brans, and baker’s yeast. Some beta-glucans have been found to prevent heart disease and others boost immune cell activity.

In this study, 77 healthy women with self-described “moderate” stress levels were enrolled in this study. They were given either placebo (no treatment) or 250 mg of beta-glucan from baker’s yeast daily for 12 weeks. The women recorded information about their moods, perceived stress level, and health during the study.

Better health linked to better moods and energy

These differences were seen:

Women in the beta-glucan group reported fewer cold symptoms, such as sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, and cough, during the study than the women in the placebo group.
Mood scores improved by 29% in the women taking beta-glucan, compared with the placebo group that improved by just 16%.
Scores for vigor (measured with survey questions on physical energy, mental sharpness, and emotional well-being) also improved more in the beta-glucan group: by 41% in the beta-glucan group, compared with 7% in the placebo group.

“These data show that daily dietary supplementation with [a specific baker’s yeast beta-glucan supplement] reduces upper respiratory symptoms and improves mood state in stressed subjects, and thus it may be a useful approach for maintaining immune protection against daily stressors,” the study’s authors said.

Reducing stress for better health

This study shows that taking beta-glucan from baker’s yeast might help support physical and mental health for those experiencing stress. Here are some other strategies to prevent stress from taking its toll:

Take a hike. Physical activity can reduce stress and relieve anxiety and depression. Researchers have found that exercising outdoors is especially beneficial.
Get to bed. Sleep is critical to recovering from the effects of each day’s stressors, so don’t let activities and busyness get in the way of a good night’s sleep.
Practice relaxation. Mindfulness relaxation techniques for stress reduction can be an effective tool for helping control stress response.
Add C. Vitamin C supplementation has been found to reduce both physical and emotional signs of stress (500 to 1,000 mg, twice daily, would be a reasonable amount for this purpose).

References: J Am Coll Nutr 2012;31:295-300

NPF Pledge Now Available in Spanish

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 10:00:00 +0000

The Natural Products Foundation (NPF) is pleased to announce that the Truth in Advertising Pledge will now be available in Spanish. Advertisers may review and sign the Autenticidad del Suplemento Dietético en el Programa de Garantía de Publicidad to signal their commitment to truthful and non-misleading dietary supplement promotions.

“NPF is very grateful to Maru van Osdel of Nexgen Pharma and Maria Conejo of Improvera USA for their volunteer translation efforts,” stated David Brown, Chairman of the NPF Board of Directors. “Expanding the Foundation’s education outreach to Spanish-language advertisers is a great step toward widespread compliance for supplement advertising.”

Autenticidad del Suplemento Dietético en el Programa de Garantía de Publicidad.

Código de conducta

Los participantes en el Programa de Garantía de Publicidad de la Fundación de Productos Naturales (TIAPP - siglas en inglés) se han comprometido a garantizar que los consumidores obtengan información certera sobre los suplementos dietéticos legalmente comercializados, para que ellos puedan tomar decisiones bien informadas en cuanto a promoción y mantenimiento de su salud se refiere. En ese sentido, los participantes acuerdan acatar el siguiente código de conducta: cualquier anuncio o material de propaganda creado o publicado, o a su vez suministrado o distribuido por los participantes del programa, será, en la medida de sus conocimientos, veraz, sin engaños y bien fundamentado. Este código es notificado de acuerdo a los requerimientos de la Ley Federal de Alimentos, Drogas y Cosméticos (FDCA - siglas en inglés) y modificado por la Ley de Educación y Salud de los Suplementos Dietéticos (DSHEA - siglas en inglés) y por la Ley de la Comisión Federal de Comercio, y se resume como sigue:

No hacer reclamaciones, ya sean expresas o implícitas, que no sean verídicas y no divulgar apropiadamente la información calificada.

Verificar que exista la justificación suficiente para las reclamaciones hechas, incluyendo el nivel de apoyo, tipo y calidad de las pruebas presentadas, así como la relevancia de la evidencia para la reclamación.

No hacer declaraciones a través de testimonios o endosos de expertos que no puedan ser justificados.

Asegurar que las reclamaciones basadas en el uso tradicional tengan los fundamentos adecuados y/o advertir claramente que el único fundamento de la reclamación es la historia de su uso para un propósito en particular.

Asegurar que las reclamaciones sean apropiadas para los suplementos dietéticos, y que no promuevan el producto anunciado como una “droga” bajo la FDCA.

Utilizando la renuncia de dos partes según lo estipulado por la Ley de Educación y Salud de los Suplementos Dietéticos (DSHEA) de 1994, cuando corresponda.

Adherirse estrictamente al uso de la "literatura de terceros" tal como se define por DSHEA.

Whether you represent a manufacturer, ad agency, media outlet or retailer, your support means a great deal to NPF efforts. Simply review the pledge online, which is a synopsis of current laws and regulations already governing what can be claimed about dietary supplement products. Download the full pledge, in English or Spanish. Then, have an authorized individual from your organization make the commitment for your organization to uphold the pledge by completing and returning the pledge form.

NPF Science Update: Larch Arabinogalactan

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 10:00:00 +0000

Herbal Defense Against the Common Cold

By Maureen Williams, ND

A special fiber from the bark of the larch tree, called arabinogalactan, may be another weapon in the arsenal against the common cold, according to a study that found that people who supplemented with arabinogalactan got fewer colds.

The study, published in Current Medical Research and Opinion, included 199 people who reported getting colds frequently—at least three times in six months. They were assigned to receive either 4.5 grams (about 1 teaspoon) of larch arabinogalactan powder per day or placebo and were monitored for 12 weeks.

Larch arabinogalactan users have fewer colds

Arabinogalactan appeared to make a small difference: 60% of the people in the supplement group got a cold during the study compared to 74% in the placebo group and the arabinogalactan users had more cold-symptom-free days (77 days) compared to placebo (74 days). The duration and severity of symptoms was the same in both groups.

The study’s authors comment that “larch arabinogalactan increased the body’s potential to defend against common cold infection,” noting that both groups had fewer colds than expected during the study, suggesting that the protective effect of arabinogalactan may have been more pronounced if the rate of colds had been higher.

Arabinogalactan and immunity

While scientists still don’t know exactly how larch arabinogalactan works, studies done in test tubes have found that it can increase the activity of specific immune cells and increase antibody production. It is also known to act as a prebiotic, increasing populations of friendly bacteria in the large intestine. These bacteria help keep the immune system working properly, and studies have shown that increasing the number of friendly bacteria in the gut can reduce susceptibility to some infections, including colds.

Build your defenses against colds

Larch arabinogalactan may help your immune system better fight off cold viruses, but viruses are very clever and you might improve your odds staying healthy if you use multiple weapons to keep them at bay:

Gargle & rinse. A daily practice of gargling with plain water can keep your risk of colds down, and a traditional “neti pot” (sterilize before using) or any nasal saline rinse can help flush out bacteria or virus from your sinuses.

Rest. Lack of sleep and too much stress can wear down your defenses and increase your susceptibility.

Limit sugar. The higher your blood sugar level, the slower your immune cells work. Avoid spikes in blood sugar levels by eating high-fiber complex carbohydrates instead of sugars and refined grains.

Take vitamin C. Although we don’t know for sure whether it is preventive, studies have found that taking vitamin C during a cold may reduce its duration and severity. You need at least 1,000 to 2,000 mg per day to have an effect.

Take a cold rinse. Popular wisdom has it that cold water makes you stronger, and researchers have found it might be true: immune cells are more active after dunking briefly in cold water. Try taking a 30 to 60 second cold shower after your regular hot shower.

References: Curr Med Res Opin 2013;29:1-8

NPF Science Update: Multivitamins

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 11:00:00 +0000

Are Multivitamins Safe?

By Suzanne Dixon, MPH, MS, RD

Public opinion about multivitamins has swung from one extreme to another, leaving many to wonder whether they are a must-have health item, or something best left on the shelf. A large study has attempted to answer this question once and for all, and the results are reassuring that multivitamins are safe, and may offer health benefits as well.

Multivitamins, multiminerals, meta-analysis, and mortality

The study authors used a research method called meta-analysis to combine 21 controlled clinical trials on multivitamins and mortality—risk of death due to any cause. Only trials in which participants took a multivitamin-multimineral supplement every day, and which had a minimum duration of one year, were part of the analysis.

The 21 trials created a total sample of 91,074 adults who took multivitamin-multimineral supplements for an average of 43 months (3.6 years). Participants’ average age was 62 years, and 8,794 deaths occurred during the studies. From this large pool of data, the researchers concluded that compared with adults assigned to take multivitamin-multimineral supplements, those who did not take the supplements experienced:

no increased or decreased risk of all-cause mortality,

no increased or decreased risk of death due to vascular causes (heart disease and stroke), and

no increased or decreased risk of death due to cancer.

Considering multivitamins, finding balance

This large, comprehensive study found that death rates were no different for older adults taking multivitamin-multiminerals compared with adults not taking these supplements. Does this mean you should ditch your multivitamins? Not necessarily. The researchers also noted a trend toward decreased mortality in the supplement group. This finding isn’t statistically significant, but still, it suggests that contrary to previous observational studies, multivitamins may offer benefit. And it’s reassuring to note that unlike the previous studies, this large meta-analysis did not note any increase in mortality among supplement users. Our tips can help decode the multivitamin puzzle as it applies to you and your family:

Account for age. The study focused on older adults starting supplements later in life. The results may not apply to younger adults or children.

Consider duration. Vascular disease, cancer, and other chronic diseases develop over decades; the short study timeframes—an average 3.6 years—may not be long enough to accurately capture the relationship between multivitamin-multimineral supplements and mortality.

Underlying health. This study focused on generally healthy adults. Multivitamin-multimineral supplements may benefit people who have a poor diet or compromised nutritional status for other reasons, such as an existing illness or inability to consume a healthy, varied diet.

Supplement smartly. According to lead study author Dr. Helen MacPherson, PhD, “As most commercially available multivitamins approximate the recommended daily value, excessive intake may be more likely in those who use multiple dietary supplements than in those who take [only] a daily multivitamin.” To minimize the risk of overdoing it, read labels carefully, and avoid loading up on multiple supplements with the same nutrients.

Keep skepticism intact. The study authors note that previous, highly publicized reports from large observational studies, “have led to considerable concern regarding potential harm associated with multivitamin-multimineral use.” This meta-analysis included only controlled clinical trials—the gold standard of evidence— and it suggests that this level of alarm may be unwarranted. Multivitamins do not appear to increase risk of death in older adults.

Aim for balance. Many people like to take a multivitamin as nutritional insurance, to fill in the gaps when they are eating a less-than-perfect diet. If you do decide to take a multivitamin, this study offers support that this choice is safe. For optimal benefit, avoid mega-doses of any one nutrient, and select a product that offers about 100% of the daily value for most nutrients.

Assess personal needs. The study results don’t address specific health needs. For example, if osteoporosis is your concern, you may want to focus on particular nutrients, such as vitamins D and K, calcium, and magnesium. Talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian to determine what you need to stay in tip-top health.

References: Am J Clin Nutr 2013;97:437-44

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