Good Nutrition Advice

NEWS

Certain nutrients taken on a daily basis can help combat PMS. The most important of these are omega-3 fatty acids. These vital nutrients provide the raw materials for the production of good prostaglandins. Take one containing 770mg EPA and 510mg of DHA in two capsules.

Taking a good multivitamin and mineral with good levels of B vitamins (research shows that B vitamins significantly reduce the intensity of period pains), vitamin E (shown to reduce painful periods), magnesium (acts as a muscle relaxant) and zinc which converts omega-3 fatty acids into beneficial prostaglandins. Herbs such as black cohosh, agnus castus and dong quai can also be useful.

According to a new study, hypnotherapy may improve irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms.

Various forms of hypnosis, trance, and altered states of consciousness have been documented in a number of cultures throughout history. How hypnosis works is not completely understood. Some changes in the body have been associated with hypnosis, including changes in skin temperature, heart rate, intestinal secretions and immune response. Preliminary research suggests that hypnotherapy may lower the sensory and motor component of the gastrocolonic response in patients with IBS.

A RECENT study suggests that yoga may be more beneficial than standard care for patients with chronic lower back pain.

Yoga is an ancient system of exercise, healing and relaxation. Yoga has undergone much scientific study, with various psychological and physical theories suggested. In human research, yoga has been shown to reduce heart rate and blood pressure, increase breath holding time and lung capacity, improve muscle relaxation and body composition, cause weight loss and increase overall physical endurance.

There is preliminary research that suggests yoga may reduce chronic back pain; however, further research is necessary before firm conclusions can be made.

CONTRARY to previous reports, a new study suggests that selenium may not decease lung cancer mortality risk.

Selenium, an essential trace mineral, is required for the functioning of the body's antioxidant enzymes and for cell growth and survival. The role of selenium in cancer prevention has been the subject of recent study and debate. Preliminary evidence suggests selenium may reduce the risk of prostate cancer; however, any role in lung or colorectal cancer is unclear. After the data was adjusted for various variables, including years of smoking and dietary factors, the researchers found that heavy smokers with high selenium blood levels actually had a significantly increased risk of lung cancer death. The authors noted that these results were contrary to their hypothesis that low selenium blood levels may be linked to an increased risk of lung cancer death.