Month: September 2020
Part 1: Melatonin, Immune Function, and Inflammation
A look at the physiological role of melatonin beyond its sleep-supportive and antioxidant effects. Melatonin and Respiratory Health Melatonin has been shown to improve various markers of lung function and/or reduce pulmonary inflammation in numerous settings not having a primary infectious etiology. Although we typically think of melatonin as aRead
The Immune Enhancing Effects of Alpha-Tocopherol and the Tocotrienol Family
We all are familiar with the antioxidant principles of the vitamin E family, their importance as an essential nutrient, and the protection they provide against lipid peroxidation.[1],[2] However, many are less aware of their importance for healthy immune system function, particular with age. Although severe vitamin E deficiency is uncommonRead
Zinc and Selenium: Key Players for Healthy Immunity
Adequate nutrition is essential for the normal functioning of the immune system, although some nutrients are more important than others when it comes to defending the body from infection.[1] Among the essential minerals, deficiencies in either zinc or selenium can greatly increase one’s susceptibility to infection and may worsen theRead
Fructose Alters Gut Microbiota and Worsens Colitis
Diet remains an important part of disease prevention and management, and a new study suggests that consumption of fructose may worsen intestinal inflammation common to inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Led by David Montrose, PhD, of the Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University, the study is currently published earlyRead
Omegas and Dietary Patterns for Immune Support
We commonly evaluate food and macronutrients based on their ability to supply the necessary fuel for our bodies to operate, as such, we classify them as: carbohydrates, proteins and fats. However, we must also consider food based on its healing power and role in optimal health, which goes beyond basicRead
Rapid, Non-Invasive Liver Exam at Point of Care Improves Patient Outcomes
By Scott Howell, D.O., MPH&TM, CPE, Advisor to Echosens Physician practices providing integrative medicine (IM) understand the value of healing-oriented medicine that treats the whole person, including all aspects of patient lifestyles. The emphasis of the therapeutic relationship between practitioner and patient is informed by evidence and utilizes every appropriate therapy to meetRead
New CME Course: Physician and Health Professional Well-Being from American College of Lifestyle Medicine
The American College of Lifestyle Medicine announced a new CME- and CE-accredited five-hour course, “Physician and Health Professional Well-Being,” designed to support health professionals in achieving and sustaining a total healthy lifestyle and engaging in mindfulness and positive psychology activities. The self-care approaches as discussed in the course, in combinationRead
Widespread Nutrient Shortfalls May Increase the Risk of Infections
Ideally, a well-balanced, nutrient-dense diet, including a variety of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and healthy fats can meet all of one’s daily requirements for vitamins and minerals, as well as essential fatty acids and other nutrients. In practice, however, it is difficult for many individuals to obtain aRead
New App Reveals Potential Exposure to Hydraulic Fracturing Chemicals
Exposure to hydraulic fracturing fluid in drinking water has been shown to increase the risk of respiratory problems, premature births, congenital heart defects, and other medical problems. But not all wells are created the same. Since different hydraulic fracturing (fracking) sites use a diverse mix of chemical ingredients, often individuals,Read
Silent COVID-19 Patients as Virulent as Those with Symptoms
People with silent COVID-19 infection have as much coronavirus in their noses and throats as those with symptoms, reveals research published online in the journal Thorax. Given how many of these people there are, a fifth of those infected, the study findings show, they may have a key role inRead