Here is a summary of all sorts of interesting research from around the world associated with health and well being that has been published recently:
Prostate Cancer
A Swedish study warns that men who drink one sugary drink daily may be at increased risk of prostate cancer. The study that followed 8000 men for an average of 15 years showed that men who drank 300ml of a fizzy drink were 40% more likely the develop prostate cancer than those who had never consumed sodas. The cancer was highlighted by men showing symptoms of the disease rather than through screening. A spokesman from the Lund University said that further research would make it possible to ‘tailor food and drink guidelines for certain high-risk groups’.
Curcumin (Turmeric)
2 new studies into Curcumin, the active compound of the spice turmeric have been published:
One looking at its role in preventing diabetes and the other showing its role in slowing pancreatic cancer – albeit temporarily. Curcumin has been studied for its health benefits in many other conditions such as osteoarthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, Alzheimer’s and cardiovascular health.
A Thai study found evidence that curcumin supplementation could help prevent diabetes. A group of 240 adult Thais with prediabetes were divided into 2 groups – one half were give curcumin supplements and the other a placebo. After 9 months 19 individuals in the latter group (116 participants) developed diabetes but none in the 199 strong curcumin group. The researchers proposed that curcumin extract is a safe and beneficial intervention of diabetes therapy. A small study of 25 participants, carried out in the US, showed that in 2 patients an 8g dose of curcumin given over a 2 month period temporarily stopped advanced pancreatic cancer growth and reduced the size of tumour growth in another. The study’s principal investigator said ‘It showed activity in patients and there were no side effects’.
Vitamin D
A Canadian study has found that the active form of vitamin D inhibits the production and function of a protein that is responsible for cell division in several cancers. It appears that Vitamin D slows the conversion of cells in a pre-malignant state to a malignant state curbing their proliferation.
Probiotics – beneficial bacteria
A new study suggests that a particular strain of probiotic, Saccharomyces boulardii could be beneficial for blood sugar control and weight management by improving gastrointestinal health and reducing inflammation.
It has been known for some time that the gut bacteria of obese people is significantly different from those who are able to maintain a healthier weight and it seems that certain gut bacteria are responsible for increasing low-grade inflammation in the body and disrupting metabolism.
Saccharomyces boulardii is a widely available probiotic supplement and has been studied for its role in preventing diarrhoea but this time researchers looked into its role in and potential effects on obesity and diabetes.
The results were interesting: mice that were obese and had type 2 diabetes showed a reduced fatty liver, a 10% reduction in fat mass and body weight, and a 40 to 50% reduction in inflammatory markers within a period of weeks.
In addition, improvements to gastrointestinal tissue and changes in gut bacterial balance were shown.
