- and supplementation has a therapeutic effect

Respiratory infections are a leading cause of illness and, in some cases, can become so complicated that they pose a life-threatening risk to vulnerable groups, which is why the body’s immune system and antioxidant defense are crucial. According to a population study published in Nutrients, with a special focus on children and adolescents, supplementation with vitamin C may play a therapeutic role in preventing and treating respiratory diseases.

Sleep deprivation, which is widespread, poses a significant risk to both physical and mental health. Research suggests that people with a high BMI are more likely to be vitamin D-deficient, which in turn can affect both body weight and sleep quality. Overall, vitamin D appears to influence sleep quality both directly and indirectly by affecting BMI. This is the conclusion of a large American population study published in Frontiers in Nutrition. The researchers suggest that vitamin D supplementation may improve sleep quality - particularly when it also helps regulate body weight. But how exactly does vitamin D influence sleep and weight? And how much do we really need?

A study published in RSC Advances shows that Q10 supplementation can reduce the harmful effects of aluminum, which is found in, among other things, cookware, aluminum foil, deodorants, refined table salt, vaccines, and several types of medicine. The researchers also describe how Q10, as a unique antioxidant, helps protect nerve cells and the hippocampus – the brain’s center for memory, spatial orientation, and the formation of new nerve cells.

A plant-based diet often lacks important amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids. A large population study published in Food Frontiers shows that vegetarians who consume plant-based meat substitutes have a 42 percent higher risk of developing depression. They also have higher blood pressure and a tendency toward chronic inflammation.

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death, and many people have high blood pressure without knowing it. Diet, lifestyle, and the natural ageing process all play a significant role. In addition, supplementation with Q10 appears to lower systolic blood pressure, especially when taken in appropriate doses over an extended period. This is highlighted in a meta-analysis published in the International Journal of Cardiology Cardiovascular Risk and Prevention. The researchers describe Q10 as a unique molecule with several mechanisms that benefit the circulatory system and blood pressure. The body's own Q10 production decreases with age and when using certain types of medication, and high blood pressure itself seems to increase the need for the compound.

Many skin disorders, such as acne, atopic dermatitis (eczema), and psoriasis, are linked to flaws in the skin’s natural barrier and an immune system that is either too weak or overreacts with chronic inflammation. The skin’s natural microflora may also be out of balance. In this context, various vitamins play important roles in supporting skin health due to their regenerative, immune-stimulating, anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, and antioxidant properties that help protect the skin against damage. In a new review article published in The Microbe, the authors explore how different vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, B12, C, D, and E) contribute to skin health, immune function, and the management of skin conditions.

The ageing process is often associated with hearing loss, and many people develop tinnitus – a condition characterised by unpleasant sounds of varying types and intensities. However, evidence suggests that patients suffering from age-related tinnitus may experience relief and improved sleep quality by taking Q10 supplements. This is supported by a randomised placebo-controlled trial (RCT) published in the Iranian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology. In the study, the authors also highlight the role of Q10 in cellular energy metabolism and its function as an important antioxidant that protects cells from damage. The natural production of Q10 declines with age and is further reduced by the use of cholesterol-lowering statins, which is problematic since a Q10 deficiency may also increase the risk of other age-related degenerative diseases.

People who are overweight often struggle with unstable blood sugar levels and metabolic syndrome - a precursor to type 2 diabetes. Diet plays a key role, and according to an article in Nutrition Reviews, magnesium deficiency also appears to be associated with metabolic syndrome. Magnesium is primarily found in whole and green foods, and it is one of the minerals we need the most. This is partly because magnesium is involved in a wide range of enzymatic processes essential for energy metabolism, blood sugar regulation, fat balance, and weight management.

As the elderly population grows, so does the number of people affected by infections, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, dementia, arthritis, cancer, and other degenerative conditions. These diseases appear to be characterized by a dysregulated immune system and chronic inflammation, which can damage and destroy cells via free radicals. If left unaddressed, this dysregulation also increases the risk of reduced quality of life and premature death. According to a review article published in Immunity & Ageing, many older adults are deficient in zinc, which is an essential nutrient for proper immune function and a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells. But why is zinc deficiency so widespread, and how can we ensure adequate intake?

Omega-3 fatty acids, which we primarily get from oily fish, play a crucial role in brain function and numerous metabolic processes. However, deficiencies have become a global issue, while many people simultaneously consume excessive amounts of omega-6 fatty acids from vegetable oils and industrially processed foods. A review article in AJPM Focus reveals that this imbalance increases the risk of a wide range of diseases linked to chronic inflammation - including cardiovascular disease, cancer, arthritis, PMS, fatty liver, depression, other neurological disorders, and premature birth. The researchers emphasize the need to restore the historical balance by reducing omega-6 intake and increasing omega-3 consumption. This could help prevent and treat many serious conditions more effectively.

Summer sunlight is vital and is the primary source of vitamin D, which plays a crucial role in bone health, immune function, brain activity, mood, circulation, cancer prevention, kidney function, blood sugar regulation, muscle strength, pregnancy, and fetal development. However, to achieve the optimal effect, the level of vitamin D in the blood must be higher than the officially recommended minimum values. This is the conclusion of a review article published in Nutrients, where researchers also discuss how much vitamin D is needed to optimize blood levels of the nutrient.