Vitamins & Supplements

D-Ribose, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome & Fibromyalgia

By Tori Hudson, ND | Contributing Writer - Vol. 9, No. 4. , 2008

Of all the nutrients, herbs and drugs used to treat patients with chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia, D-ribose is the singlemost effective because it corrects the core metabolic problem underlying these syndromes. D-ribose supplementation can have a profoundly positive effect in CFS/FM patients, especially women.

Mushroom-Derived Compound Boosts Immune System Function in the Elderly

By Janet Gulland | Contributing Writer - Vol. 9, No. 3. , 2008

Immune system function tends to diminish with advancing age, leaving many elderly people more susceptible to influenza, common colds, and pneumonia, as well as various cancers. A new study shows Active Hexose Correlated Compound (AHCC), a mushroom-derived compound used in Japan as an adjunct in treatment of cancer and hepatitis, can boost T-cell mediated immune function in otherwise healthy elders.

Vitamin D: New Findings, New Questions

By Michael Traub, ND - Vol. 9, No. 2. , 2008

Vitamin D deficiency has been linked with everything from psoriasis and osteoporosis to cardiovascular disease, diabetes and autoimmune diseases. But the relationships may not be as simple as we’d like to believe. Neither is the relationship between sun exposure and vitamin D production in the skin.

Vitamin D2 or D3: Which Is D Best?

By Tori Hudson, ND | Contributing Writer - Vol. 9, No. 2. , 2008

A wealth of studies in recent years have underscored the health threats posed by vitamin D deficiency. But considerable debate has raged over which form of the vitamin is the best for supplementation. Many clinicians believe that vitamin D3, derived from fish and other animal sources, is more potent than D2, the “vegetarian” form. But new data suggest that may not be true.

Copper Deficiency May Underlie Osteoporosis, Anemia and Neurodegenerative Disorders

By Erik L. Goldman | Editor in Chief - Vol. 9, No. 1. , 2008

Copper seldom gets the attention lavished on other minerals like calcium and magnesium, but it is an essential factor for myelination of nerves, activation of immune system cells, synthesis of collagen and formation of hemoglobin. Copper deficiency, which is very common, may underlie anemia, osteoporosis, heart disease, and it may even mimic multiple sclerosis. Drugs that suppress stomach acid, as well as zinc and vitamin C supplements, contribute to copper deficiency.

Tackling the Most Common Nutritional Deficiencies: Fiber, Long-Chain Fatty Acids, Vitamin D

By August West | Contributing Writer - Vol. 9, No. 1. , 2008

Many Americans are well fed but poorly nourished, thanks to a calorie rich, nutrient poor diet. This is a major driver of chronic diseases. Fortunately, it’s correctable. In the first of a two-part article, Steven Masley, MD, a nutrition-centered primary care doctor, offers tips for managing the most common deficiencies, including fiber, omega-3s, vitamin D and the B vitamins.

Nutritional Therapies for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

By Janet Gulland | Contributing Writer - Vol. 9, No. 1. , 2008

A unique form of hyperinsulinemia is one of the metabolic drivers of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). According to Dr. Alan Gaby, nutritional therapies aimed at normalizing insulin action and glucose metabolism can greatly benefit women with this condition, often restoring ovulation and fertility. N-acetyl cysteine, vitamin D, chromium, and a little known nutrient called pinitol are valuable allies.