The main category of Dietary Supplements News Articles.
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The main category of Dietary Supplements News Articles.
You can use the search box below to find what you need.
In our hectic modern world, it’s hard not to see the appeal of supplements. They’re quick, convenient, and promise to help you meet your daily recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of nutrients if you’re deficient or concerned that you’re not getting enough vitamins from your food. And one supp that’s currently trending? Nicotinamide mononucleotide, otherwise known as NMN.
As per the National Institute of Health website, NMN is a “precursor for NAD+ biosynthesis” that has the potential to “…mitigate aging-related disorders such as oxidative stress, DNA damage, neurodegeneration, and inflammatory responses.” And while it’s skyrocketed in popularity in recent years, we’ve asked top experts whether all the many reported NMN supplement benefits are too good to be true…
NMN supplements promise a whole lot, you see, including age-defying properties, boosted energy, enhanced metabolism, and improved brain health, in addition to the above. “Although it’s anti-ageing effects remains speculative, NMN has sparked significant interest in the longevity and wellness space,” says registered dietician Sapna Peruvemba.
Sure, it’s easy to get swept up in the latest diet fads, but here at MC UK, we always want to paint a balanced picture of the current scientific evidence, not to mention credible research, on trending health hacks.
To cut through the noise of these claims, we’ve talked to anti-ageing experts to see what they really think of this popular supplement and its various benefits. From registered dieticians to gerontologists, these specialists have answered all your burning questions about this so-called fountain of youth. Are the NMN supplement benefits backed up by science? Are they actually safe to try? And what supplements actually do offer a simple way to improve your health?
And once you’ve read the experts’ honest take, do check out more research-backed health advice, from what supplements you should take, to science-backed nutrition tips, to expert-approved stress supplements. Plus, take a look our guides to the benefits of mindful eating and MC UK’s Senior Health Editor Ally Head’s take on the viral inflammation diet.
First – let’s explain what NMN actually is. A molecule that occurs naturally in humans, animals, and plants, we’re all born with NMN in our bodies and, in time, it forms an important substance called nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). “Our cells need NAD+ to keep them healthy via several different mechanisms, such as metabolism and DNA repair,” explains Dr Cathy Slack, an associate professor at the University of Warwick specialising in the biology of ageing. “Several of these processes become dysfunctional as we age – and, indeed, NAD+ levels also decline with age.”
And that’s where NMN supplements step in. “NMN supplements aim to boost NAD+ levels to counteract some of the damaging effects of ageing on our cells,” Slack tells us.
However, the researcher also says supplements aren’t the only way to get more NMN in our bodies. “We normally derive it from our diet, from fruits like avocados, dairy, and red meat,” she says. “Our cells can also produce NMN indirectly from vitamin B3.”
@dr.kay.longevity
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As mentioned above, the main aim of NMN supplements is to act against the effects of ageing and even age-related disorders. “NMN supplements are primarily used for those wanting to support their NAD+ levels as they naturally decline with age,” explains Trista Best, a registered dietician at The Candida Diet .”Those wanting to boost their cellular health and cognitive health have also found success with NMN supplements.”
In short, they promise to bring about a host of benefits. “The potential benefits of NMN include improved metabolic health, enhanced muscle strength and performance, better insulin sensitivity, and other anti-aging effects,” says dietician Peruvemba.
However, both Slack and Peruvemba assert that the current research on the health benefits of NMN supplements are unclear, so these potential benefits are just that – potential. More research needs to be done before we can conclusively prove the above.
According to Slack, a number of studies have demonstrated that NMN supplements increases NAD+ levels in small animal models (particularly mice). In each study, this has lead to numerous health and anti-ageing benefits, such as the suppression of fat gain, increased muscle function, better physical activity, and improved insulin sensitivity.
“The scientific research has shown that in cultured cells or animals, NMN supplements can indeed increase the cellular levels of NAD+, and this increase in NAD+ is associated with improved function.” says the researcher. “These studies are encouraging as they suggest that NMN supplementation may have beneficial effects on health, particularly in older animals.”
However, she points out that there are two major limitations with the current research into NME supplement benefits. Firstly, the lack of human trials that demonstrate the effects of NMN on human health and ageing, and secondly, a lack of human trials to investigate the safety of humans taking NMN supplements over long periods at the relatively high doses given to mice. “Most of the research conducted so far has been carried out on cells in culture or in animal models,” says Slack.
While there has been research on NMN supplements benefits in people – such as a 2021 study that found NMN supplements increased aerobic capacity in runners, or a 2022 study that found NMN increased muscle response in older adults – Slack and Peruvemba argue that more human trials are needed.
Peruvemba explains that it’s difficult to make conclusive claims about NMN’s efficacy over time or its potential risks without more comprehensive human studies. “Human studies are limited,” she says. “They’re typically short-term (four to 12 weeks), and do not provide clarity on long-term safety, optimal dosing, or whether the effects observed in animals actually translate to humans.”
Dr Richard Faragher, a professor of Biogerontology at the University of Brighton, also agrees that human data is limited, and emphasises that studies on the safety of these supplements are scarce. “The major drawback at the moment, in my view, is that there is a dearth of studies on the safety of these supplements,” he tells us. “It’s fair to say that the jury is currently out – while it’s probably safe to take, but the numbers of individuals involved in the trials seems to have been quite small.”
And while studies have demonstrated that NMN supplementation increases NAD+ concentration in both humans and experimental animals, Faragher also casts doubts over whether NAD+ declines at all. “Across species NAD+ levels are believed to fall with age, but the quality of evidence that this happens is not especially good – particularly in humans,” he argues.
These drawbacks of research into NMN supplement benefits were outlined in a recent review, which concluded that a number of actions need to be taken before NMN supplement benefits can be confidently marketed: conducting more human trials to investigate safety and tolerance; conducting more comprehensive studies to better understand the benefits; and gaining a clear definition of what a ‘normal’ concentration of NAD+ looks like.
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“Right now, nobody,” says Faragher. “But when it comes to effectiveness, absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.”
Peruvemba suggests that there are some who could benefit more from the potential advantages than others. “While many people are drawn to NMN for its anti-aging appeal, it may hold the most promise for those at higher risk of age-related diseases,” she says. “These include Alzheimer’s, diabetes (as aging can contribute to insulin resistance), cognitive decline, and muscle weakness.”
However, as with most supplements, Peruvemba says gaining the benefits of NMN should start with what’s on your plate. “While the allure of NMN and other supplements is understandable,” says the dietician. “There’s no replacement for the powerful anti-aging benefits of a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.”
With that in mind, Slack also says that she only recommends the supplements to those who aren’t able to gain NMN from diet. “Supplementation is most likely beneficial for individuals who are deficient in NMN or who find it difficult to incorporate NMN-containing foods into their daily diet,” she says.
Healthspan High Strength Omega 3, 6 & 9
“Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and support aging internally from heart to joint health,” says Best.
BetterYou DLux+ Vitamin D+K2
“Vitamin D and K2 are essential for bone health and immune function,” says Best.
Holland & Barrett Vitamin C 1000mg 120 Tablets
“Vitamin C is an antioxidant that reduces oxidative stress and promotes collagen production,” explains Best.
“The most common dosage of NMN is 250 to 500 mg per day, with some studies showing doses up to 1,000 mg may be safe and effective,” says health specialist Best. “Individual factors will impact the exact dosage including age, health, goals, and weight. It is most commonly taken in the morning when NAD+ production is naturally higher.”
However, Best, Slack, and Peruvemba do not recommend going higher than the 1,000mg, and caution should be taken until more robust data confirms its long-term safety.
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Japan might be world-famous for its traditional food, but these days it’s becoming just as well known for innovative sweets. Now, there’s a new store called Mikuriya that’s set to steal the limelight with its stunning lineup of crepes.
▼ Located in Nara City’s popular Higashimuki Shopping Street, this Japanese crepe specialty store opened on 1 February.
Mikuriya stands out from the crowd by serving what they claim to be “Japan’s first Japanese pattern crepes.” Traditional Japanese patterns not only look beautiful but are said to bring good luck, so you could argue that these are the luckiest crepes in Japan.
The store recently shared images of three crepe varieties ahead of opening day, with the bright green Matcha Tiramisu and the darker green Azuki Strawberry Shiratama Matcha featuring a seigaiha wave pattern, which is said to bring rising surges of good luck. The bright red Matcha Strawberry Daifuku is another harbinger of luck, as the daifuku sweet rice cake literally means “big luck” and the asanoha (hemp leaf) pattern brings fortune by representing strength and vitality.
▼ Adding even more auspiciousness is the red plum knot tied around each crepe, which improves fate as it symbolises the flower that blooms ahead of spring.
While the crepes look beautiful, they’re also made with quality ingredients, as fresh milk is provided by Nara’s Uemura Ranch, one of Japan’s oldest dairy farms with a history of over 100 years, and the green tea used is Yamato tea, so-called as Nara Prefecture was known as Yamato Province from the 7th century until 1871. Nara is particularly famous for green tea as it’s the site where consumption of green tea in Japan was first recorded, in 729.
The local ingredients used in the crepes allow you to taste the terroir of the region, and each one is wrapped in paper that features arabesque patterns found at Shosoin, the treasure house of Nara’s famous Todai-ji Temple.
▼ The shop’s logo also takes its design cues from Shosoin, so you can fully immerse yourself in the culture of Nara.
With each crepe priced at 1,200 yen, this is an affordable luxury that’ll enhance your connection to Nara, while bringing you a dose of good luck along the way. Whichever flavor you choose, it’s bound to be a feast for the senses, and especially handy for those who aren’t able to try the Japanese garden green tea crepes in Tokyo.
Store information
Crepe Masakura-in Kikuriya / クレープの正倉院 美くりや
Address: Nara-ken, Nara-shi, Higashimuki Minamimachi 1 Ami Building 1F
奈良県奈良市東向南町1 AMIビル1階
Open: 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Read more stories from SoraNews24.
— Green tea ice cream from Nara combines everything we love about the city into one cute dessert
— Beautiful Japanese garden green tea crepes waiting in Tokyo’s historical Asakusa neighborhood
— Crepe made with Kyoto sweets and green tea is the perfect treat after a day of temple hopping
© SoraNews24
The multi-functional dietary supplement is marketed as a non-GMO, dairy-free, and soy-free product. User feedback highlights increased energy levels, improved mental clarity, and weight management support, though individual results vary. Some reports mention mild side effects, such as bloating or headaches, which typically subside over time.
Consumers interested in Mitolyn may be drawn to its natural ingredient profile, non-stimulant formulation, and potential metabolic benefits. The packaging is playfully colorful, which immediately captures attention.
Image Credit: Mitolyn
Japan is embarking on a bold journey to reshape its tea industry by transitioning from traditional sencha to tencha leaves—the core of matcha—capitalizing on the rapidly growing global appetite for this vibrant green powder. As Japanese green tea exports climb, driven by health-conscious consumers in Europe and the US, tencha emerges as the star of a reviving tea landscape. The transformative process of tencha, shade-grown and meticulously steamed, enhances matcha’s unique flavor and health benefits, setting the stage for an international matcha revolution.
Recognizing this potential, Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries plans to introduce fiscal incentives by 2025 to assist farmers in navigating this switch, ensuring Japan remains competitive on the global stage. Pictures of frothy matcha lattes and colorful culinary creations flood Instagram, where Japan’s digital marketing blitz is capturing hearts worldwide, engaging over 30,000 followers with matcha recipes and cultural nuggets. As this social media strategy unfolds, it ushers in a new era of cultural influence and culinary innovation powered by matcha.
While this shift promises lucrative opportunities in a bustling market, it also calls for careful environmental stewardship. Transitioning to tencha cultivation, with its shading techniques, could lead to sustainable farming practices, enhancing biodiversity. As Japan integrates tencha into its agricultural canon, the move symbolizes a harmonious blend of tradition and modern innovation. In this transformative wave, Japan not only preserves its culinary legacy but also positions itself at the forefront of health and sustainability trends, solidifying its place as a global leader in tea production.
Keep an eye on how these dynamic changes unfold, potentially brewing the next big wave in gastronomic experiences worldwide.
What are the benefits and limitations of switching from sencha to tencha in Japan’s tea industry?
# Benefits:
– Enhanced Flavor and Nutritional Profile: The shade-grown tencha is the basis for matcha, known for its vibrant flavor and high levels of antioxidants. This can attract a health-conscious global market.
– Economic Opportunities: With the growing international demand for matcha, this transition could open lucrative export markets, especially in Europe and the US.
– Sustainable Farming Practices: The shading techniques used in tencha cultivation improve soil health and support biodiversity.
# Limitations:
– High Initial Investment: Farmers must invest in new cultivation techniques and infrastructure, which could be a barrier without adequate fiscal support.
– Market Saturation Risk: There’s a risk of oversupply as more producers switch, potentially driving prices down if demand doesn’t keep pace.
– Cultural Adjustments: Shifting focus away from traditional sencha may face resistance from those who value cultural and historical continuity.
How is Japan leveraging digital marketing to promote tencha and matcha globally?
Japan is utilizing a robust digital marketing strategy, prominently featuring:
– Engaging Social Media Campaigns: Japan’s digital marketing efforts use platforms like Instagram to share matcha recipes and cultural stories, attracting over 30,000 followers.
– Visual Appeal: Pictures of matcha lattes and colorful recipes tie into the trend of aesthetic food experiences online.
– Cultural Storytelling: Emphasizing matcha’s cultural significance helps engage international audiences, creating a narrative that extends beyond the product.
For more on engaging digital marketing trends, visit Neil Patel.
What future trends and innovations could emerge from Japan’s tea industry transformation?
– Culinary Innovations: Expect the integration of matcha into global cuisines, leading to new culinary creations and fusion dishes.
– Health and Wellness Trends: As more consumers prioritize health, product lines could expand to include matcha-infused wellness products, from skincare to supplements.
– Sustainability Focus: Innovations may arise in sustainable farming and production techniques as environmental consciousness grows in the industry.
To explore current trends in the health and wellness industry, check out Wellness Living.
Japan’s shift from sencha to tencha reflects a strategic alignment with global market trends and sustainability values. As these changes take root, they not only enhance Japan’s position in the international tea trade but also set a new standard for incorporating tradition with innovation. Keep an eye on this evolution for the next major developments in the culinary world.
FROM supporting our immune system to keeping our bones strong, vitamins and minerals are vital for keeping us healthy.
So when we don’t get enough of them, problems can arise.
Whether it’s fatigue, hair loss, sleep trouble or even low libido, there are numerous health issues that can be caused by a lack of certain nutrients.
With the help of a range of experts, we reveal the potential giveaways – plus the foods that can help.
Do keep in mind though that some of these problems could be triggered by deeper-rooted issues, so always speak to your GP.
Could be caused by a magnesium deficiency
The mineral magnesium is needed for countless processes within the body.
It supports the nervous system, muscle movement, bones and teeth, and research published in Biological Trace Element Research has even found it to help with sleep.
Dr Emma Derbyshire, public health nutritionist at the Health and Food Supplements Information Service, says that symptoms of magnesium deficiency include loss of appetite, nausea, fatigue, weakness, insomnia, cramping legs, and diarrhoea.
You can help combat these issues by increasing your intake of magnesium-rich foods like nuts and seeds, beans and lentils, wholegrain cereals and wholemeal bread, leafy green vegetables like spinach, milk and yoghurt, she adds.
You could also try a supplement, available in most pharmacies and supermarkets.
The NHS recommends adult men get 300mg a day, and women get 270mg.
Could be caused by a zinc deficiency
Zinc is essential when it comes fertility, pregnancy, brain health and looking after our hair, skin and nails.
Adult men need about 9.5mg a day, while it’s 7mg for women, the NHS says.
Mild to moderate deficiency in the mineral may cause low appetite, rough skin, and you might even find foods taste different to normal, according to nutritionist Dr Pamela Mason, adviser to ADACT Medical.
“Signs can also include male hypogonadism, where the testes produce few or no sex hormones which reduces libido, mental lethargy, and delayed wound healing,” she says.
More seriously, it can result in hair loss, diarrhoea, the skin condition dermatitis, which causes swelling and irritation, and infections due to an impaired immune system, she adds.
Zinc is famously found in oysters and red meat, however there are cheaper alternatives to increasing your intake.
Try liver, egg yolks, dairy, wholegrain cereals, and lentils, or a supplement.
Could be caused by a copper deficiency
Copper supports the immune system and iron absorption, so a deficiency increases your chances of iron deficiency anaemia.
This can cause tiredness, shortness of breath, noticeable heartbeats, paler skin, and headaches, the NHS says.
But copper is also needed for bone growth, nerve function, and energy release, as well as skin and hair pigmentation, Dr Mason says.
While “quite rare”, even a small deficiency in the mineral can cause problems, such as elevated cholesterol levels, she adds.
Thankfully, copper is found in plenty of foods, including wholegrain products, liver, most seafood, dried beans and peas.
“Tap water is a good source of copper too,” Dr Mason adds.
You should be able to get all the copper you need – 1.2mg per day for adults – from your daily diet.
These are the best nutrients for men, where to find them, and how they can help:
These are the best nutrients for women, the best foods for each one, and their benefits:
Could be caused by a calcium deficiency
You might associate calcium with bones, teeth and nails, and increase your dairy intake when you spot the classic white spots on your nails.
However, the mineral also plays a role in the health of your muscles, including the heart, Dr Derbyshire says.
“Long-term calcium deficiency leads to osteoporosis, muscle aches, pains, twitching, spasms and cramps, rickets (in children), osteomalacia (softening of bones), heart disorders, brittle nails and insomnia,” she adds.
Up your calcium intake by eating more dairy products, as well as canned fish such as sardines, dark green leafy vegetables, white and brown bread, sesame seeds, and pulses.
Can’t eat dairy? Dr Derbyshire recommends a calcium supplement combined with vitamin D, as the two nutrients work together to “ensure normal bone growth”.
No matter your dietary preferences, we should all be taking in about 700mg of calcium per day, according to NHS guidelines.
Could be caused by an iron deficiency
Iron is important for making red blood cells, which carry oxygen around the body.
Men need about 8.7mg a day, while women aged 19 to 49 need 14.8mg, dropping to 8.7mg after the age of 50.
Deficiency is far more common in women. Research by HSIS found 49 per cent of 11- to 18-year-old girls and 25 per cent of adult women have intakes below the recommended level.
But it’s important to rectify this quickly, as iron is essential for energy; without it, you can feel exhausted.
Iodine deficiency may lead to an underactive thyroid, which can cause tiredness, muscle weakness and sudden weight gain
Dr Emma Derbyshire
Other symptoms of iron deficiency include anaemia, concave and brittle nails, a sore tongue, cracking in the corners of the mouth, skin itching, dizziness, headaches, insomnia, brittle hair, and hair loss, according to Dr Derbyshire.
Animal products like liver, kidneys, heart, red meat, sardines, chicken and eggs contain the highest levels of iron.
But it is also found in wholegrain and fortified cereals, spinach and other leafy green vegetables.
To improve the absorption of iron from plants, eat vitamin C-rich foods at the same time, such as citrus fruits, broccoli and potatoes, Dr Derbyshire adds.
Could be caused by a vitamin D deficiency
For strong bones and teeth, as well as a healthy immune system, vitamin D is vital.
“It’s also important for muscle and heart function,” Dr Derbyshire says.
Not getting enough can result in bone pain, poor growth and deformities, osteoporosis, gum disease, muscle weakness, and constipation.
The main source of vitamin D is the sun, so the NHS recommends all Brits take a daily supplement containing 10micrograms during winter.
Food sources are also useful; tuck into oily fish, egg yolks, fortified margarine, and full fat dairy products.
Could be caused by an iodine deficiency
It receives little attention, but iodine is essential for healthy skin and brain development, Dr Derbyshire says.
Plus, it’s used to form thyroid hormones, “which regulate metabolic rate” – the minimum number of calories your body needs to function at a basic level.
“Iodine deficiency may lead to an underactive thyroid,” the doctor adds.
“Symptoms of this include tiredness, muscle weakness, breast pain, and sudden or unexplained weight gain.
“Another classic deficiency sign is goitre, an enlargement of the thyroid gland in the neck.”
Boost your iodine intake by tucking into shellfish, seaweed, sea salt, iodised salt, and dairy produce.
Adults need 140micrograms of iodine a day, though most of us should be able to get this by eating a varied and balanced diet.
Could be caused by a vitamin B12 deficiency
For healthy energy levels and functioning immune and nervous systems, it’s important to get enough B12 – about 1.5micrograms daily.
Without it, many people experience mood changes, a sore tongue, fatigue, weakness, and a lack of concentration, Dr Mason says – and your risk of these problems only increases with age.
“It can be caused by a diet lacking in vitamin B12, such one with no or low amounts of animal products, or due to malabsorption caused by conditions like Crohn’s disease and coeliac disease,” she adds.
“Some medications may also compromise B12 absorption.”
You can find B12 in meat, liver, kidney, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, and fortified breakfast cereals.
A supplement can help if a deficiency is due to dietary reasons. If you believe you have a deficiency due to medications or a malabsorption condition or medication, check in with your GP.
The first step in testing for a vitamin or mineral deficiency is usually a blood test.
These can be carried out at your NHS GP surgery, or there are at-home finger prick tests available to buy in pharmacies that you can do at home.
Depending on your results, you may need further tests, or recommended supplements.
If a deficiency is identified, your doctor can help determine the best treatment.
A daily pill costing as little as one pence could help lower your risk of dementia, scientists have said. According to a study, vitamin D supplementation is linked to lower incidence of the devastating condition.
Dementia is a syndrome, or a group of symptoms, linked to the ongoing decline of the brain. Most common in people over the age of 65, it can lead to memory loss, behavioural changes, and problems with speech and language.
There are many factors that contribute to your likelihood of developing dementia later in life, such as your genetics, how often you exercise, and how socially active you are. Diet is also a factor, with many studies showing that eating a healthy, balanced diet packed with healthy fats is one way to lower your risk.
Researchers have also pinpointed that a specific vitamin can have a similar effect. The study, which was published in the journal Alzheimer’s and Dementia: Diagnosis, Assessment and Disease, analysed the impact of three types of vitamin D supplement.
To do so they studied data from 12,388 people from the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center, who were dementia-free at the start of the study. Their average age was 71 years old.
Overall, 37% of participants took at least one of three vitamin D supplements: calcium-vitamin D, cholecalciferol, and ergocalciferol. As reported by Medical News Today, the team also accounted for demographic, clinical, and genetic variables, such as depression and APOE ε4 status—a gene variant linked to a higher risk of dementia.
After a period of five years, the researchers discovered that 83.6% of those exposed to vitamin D supplements were alive and dementia-free. The same was true for 68.4% of those not exposed to vitamin D.
But within 10 years, 22% of participants developed dementia, of which 74.8 percent were not exposed to vitamin D supplements. In comparison, 14.6% of those with vitamin D exposure progressed to dementia, the same was true for 26% of those with no vitamin D exposure.
After adjusting for factors including cognitive diagnosis, depression, and APOE ε4 status, the team concluded that vitamin D exposure was linked to a 40 percent lower incidence of dementia compared to no exposure.
Women also saw more of a benefit from taking vitamin D supplements. The women exposed to vitamin D were 49% less likely to develop dementia than those without exposure. Vitamin D-exposed men were 26% less likely to develop dementia than non-exposed men.
This is not the first study to link vitamin D and dementia. One study, published in Nutrition journal in 2015, showed that low vitamin D levels are linked to a greater risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
At the time of reporting you can buy a 240 tablet pot of vitamin D supplements for £2.75 from Holland & Barrett, working out as less than one pence per pill.
To lower your risk of dementia, the NHS recommends:
As Americans sniffle and sneeze through the cold and flu season, demand for elderberry has never been higher.
These dark purple berries, packed with antioxidants and vitamins, have been used in folk medicine for centuries to treat everything from fever and infections to dental pain and sciatica. In medieval Europe, people even thought they could help you live longer.
Today, elderberry is touted as a miracle cold and flu remedy, with wellness influencers claiming it can shorten symptoms and speed up recovery. But before you race to the store, here’s the catch: the science behind its healing powers is shaky at best.
“The few studies that exist are often industry-supported,” Thomas Russo, professor and chief of infectious disease at the University at Buffalo, told Verywell Health. “People are spending a lot of money on an unproven supplement.”
Last year alone, consumers spent a whopping $175 million on elderberry syrups, teas, capsules, and powders, according to an analysis by the Nutrition Business Journal, as first reported by The Washington Post.
One industry-funded study found that international travelers who took elderberry supplements before, during, and after long-haul flights recovered faster and experienced fewer cold symptoms than those who did not.
Another 2020 review of five studies concluded that elderberry could reduce the duration and severity of symptoms like fever, headache, runny nose, and congestion if taken within 48 hours of feeling sick.
But it’s not all good news. Several other studies have found “no evidence” that elderberry shortens the duration or severity of flu-like symptoms in children or adults.
That said, experts agree elderberries may still offer some health perks, even if the science isn’t ironclad.
“It’s very high in vitamin C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants like phenolic acids, flavonols, and anthocyanins,” Angel Planells, a registered dietitian nutritionist, told Real Simple.
Vitamin C boosts the immune system, supports wound healing and promotes healthy skin, while antioxidants help reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol, and improve blood pressure.
Elderberry’s fiber content also benefits gut health, digestion, and immune system function. And it may help manage blood sugar, especially for those with diabetes.
“The phytonutrients and polyphenols in elderberry help the body to process glucose more efficiently,” Trista Best, a registered dietician, told Health.
The plant may also offer disease prevention benefits. “Elderberry does contain antioxidants that can, in general, reduce the free radicals and oxidative stress that lead to chronic disease,” Kate Ingram, a registered dietitian, said in an interview with Fortune.
Free radicals are highly reactive and unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to an array of health conditions, such as cancer, asthma, diabetes, and dementia.
If you’re considering adding elderberries to your routine, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
The Food and Drug Administration classifies elderberry as a dietary supplement, meaning it doesn’t undergo the same rigorous review as medications. Thus, its safety and effectiveness aren’t always guaranteed.
While supplements are widely available, you can also eat the berries — just make sure they’re cooked. Raw or unripe elderberries, along with their leaves and stems, contain cyanide-producing substances and can cause serious stomach issues like nausea and vomiting.
If you’re on prescription medication, you should check with your doctor before eating elderberries. “There are potential interactions with some diuretics, diabetic medications, chemotherapy medications, laxatives, asthma medications such as theophylline, and any drugs that suppress the immune system,” Planells said.
People under 18, as well as those pregnant or breastfeeding, should also be mindful of using any supplements. While short-term use of elderberry appears safe for most people, its safety with long-term use still requires further research.
Melanoma is a fast-progressing skin cancer characterized by a high mortality rate after metastasis. Local chemotherapy could be considered a therapeutic approach only in stage 0 of progression (in situ melanoma) and in the postoperative phase after surgical removal of suspected skin lesions. For this purpose, drugs such as Imiquimod, 5-Fluorouracil, Dacarbazine, and Doxorubicin have been tested and shown positive effects. Recently, metal nanoparticles as separate therapeutic units or drug carriers have also fallen into the research focus.
Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), in particular, are widely recognized as multifunctional tools in nanomedicine, drug delivery, and theranostics. They exert wide-spectrum antimicrobial and anti-tumor properties but their pharmacological effects are in a tight bond with the so-called “surface functionality.” For example, negatively charged and spherical particles are proven less toxic than positively charged particles, especially irregularly shaped (e.g., rods, wires, etc.). Still, because of this, the former are less potent anti-cancer agents.
Contemporary pharmaceutical development relies very much on eco-friendly technologies (often referred to as “green” technologies) that avoid the use of toxic solvents and reagents. This research has implemented one such method based on Camellia sinensis (green tea leaves) as a natural reducer of silver ions.
To achieve enhanced antimicrobial and anti-tumor activity, the thus obtained AgNPs were further conjugated to chlorhexidine (Cx+)—a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent and a cationic surfactant. Indeed, the AgNP-Cx+ complexes have shown highly increased antimicrobial properties, about 18-fold stronger anti-melanoma activity, and 3 times better tumor selectivity compared to the non-functionalized AgNPs.
The most valuable outcome of this new study, published in the journal Pharmacia, was the establishment of an adhesive patch prototype as a topical dosage form for the AgNP-Cx+ complex.
The used polymers, Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose and Eudragit RS, demonstrated a lack of negative interference with the antiproliferative action of the active agent but also ensured twice as high activity and even better selectivity against the tumor cells.
More information:
Nadezhda Antonova Ivanova, Anti-melanoma activity of green-produced nanosilver-chlorhexidine complex, Pharmacia (2025). DOI: 10.3897/pharmacia.72.e143419
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“NAD is an essential molecule that plays critical roles in all living cells — bacteria, plants, (and) animals,” Mathias Ziegler, MD, PhD, a professor in the Department of Biomedicine at the University of Bergen in Norway explained to Medical News Today.
“The fundamental role of NAD is in the retrieval of energy from food sources to make it available for cellular functions. Metaphorically speaking, NAD acts like a rechargeable battery storing energy retrieved from nutrients and then passing it on to fuel energy-demanding processes. The most important of such processes takes place in mitochondria, the cell’s powerhouse,” he continued.
Ziegler is the lead author of a new study that explains how mitochondria act as “reservoirs” to store NAD for cells to use.
However, as the amount of NAD in the mitochondrial “reservoirs” depletes with age, cells may not have enough NAD to function adequately.
Scientists believe this finding may lead to new therapeutic options aimed at raising NAD levels to combat aging and age-related diseases.
For this study, Ziegler and his team developed cellular models to look at how cells might react when NAD levels are reduced during the aging process.
Past research shows that NAD levels decline as we age, potentially causing increased levels of DNA damage and decreased cellular metabolism, both of which are linked to the aging process.
“Throughout the cell, NAD is also used as a chemical messenger to transmit information and to set switches to regulate key events such as cell division and DNA repair,” Ziegler explained.
“Unlike in the energy transmission function, when acting as a messenger molecule, NAD is degraded and needs to be resynthesized. In a variety of diseases, including
“In our study, we established and investigated for the first time a cellular model system that resembled the situation of chronically diminished NAD levels, thereby enabling us to study the mechanistic consequences,” he added.
During the study, researchers found that mitochondria act as a “reservoir” to hold NAD and supply it to the cell as needed.
“Previous studies had demonstrated that mitochondrial NAD plays an important protective role in situations of cellular stress,” Ziegler said. “However, how NAD exerts this role has remained unknown. Our investigation revealed that mitochondria can supply NAD when the demand for this molecule is excessive in other parts of the cell.”
Ziegler and his team also discovered that if mitochondria does not have enough NAD stored up, it can have a fatal consequence for the cell.
“Our study connects two hallmarks of aging, mitochondrial dysfunction and dysregulated NAD levels, indicating that excessive consumption of mitochondrial NAD might constitute a key factor leading to dysfunctional mitochondria and thus aging-associated diseases.”
— Mathias Ziegler, MD, PhD
“Our study has made an important contribution towards understanding the mechanistic basis for positive outcomes of various preclinical and some clinical studies of NAD supplementation approaches. Even though it is unlikely that such supplementation approaches will be able to cure the pathology, they could have positive effects on disease progression (i.e. slowing down progression) and dampening the symptoms,” Ziegler explained.
“This is also likely to be the case in aging, when the mitochondrial NAD reservoir is still sufficiently functional. Since we were able to identify the key players in the buffering function of mitochondria, we unraveled potential molecular targets for the development of therapeutic approaches specifically supporting this mechanism,” he added.
MNT had the opportunity to speak to Manisha Parulekar, MD, FACP, AGSF, CMD, director of the Division of Geriatrics at Hackensack University Medical Center and co-director of the Center for Memory Loss and Brain Health at Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey, about this study.
“NAD+ (the oxidized version of NAD) is a crucial coenzyme involved in hundreds of metabolic reactions, particularly those related to energy production, DNA repair, and cell signaling. It is not surprising that dysregulation of NAD+ levels, specifically a decline with age, is increasingly recognized as a possible significant contributor to both aging and a wide range of pathologies,” Parulekar said.
“While significant progress has been made in understanding the role of NAD+ in aging and disease, several key areas require further research. Could supplementing NAD precursors halt this process, what is the optimal dose for different age groups and health conditions? Research should explore how factors like age, sex, genetics, and underlying health conditions influence the response to NAD+ precursors.”
— Manisha Parulekar, MD, FACP, AGSF, CMD
MNT also spoke with Clifford Segil, DO, neurologist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, CA, about this study.
“NAD (is) a supplement that is closely related to vitamin B3 or niacin, and niacin is a supplement that we use to lower cholesterol,” Segil said.
“Part of what they said was that NAD in the study is related to mitochondrial problems. In neurology, mitochondrial problems are usually neuromuscular or muscle problems, so (it’s) pretty much accepted mitochondrial problems affect muscles in neurology. It’s not accepted that mitochondria affect dementia in neurology,” he explained.
“I’d like to see them say what dietary changes could try to increase NAD as we age. I’d also like to see them do NAD research on mitochondrial or muscle diseases because in neurology, mitochondrial diseases are most prevalent in muscular neurological problems,” he added,
Parulekar said that while completely halting the age-related decline of NAD+ is likely impossible, readers can take steps to mitigate the decline and maintain healthier levels.
“Strategies may include consuming foods rich in NAD+ precursors like dairy products, fish, poultry, (and) green vegetables. Daily exercise can also help stimulate mitochondrial biogenesis and increase energy demand,” she detailed.
Segil urged readers to consider oral NAD supplements rather than infusions for safety reasons.
NAD supplements vs. infusions
“Anytime you get a supplement infusion, which is an IV done outside of a hospital, there are large risks for infections, so I discourage any patient to get an IV or an infusion of any supplement. I think it’s safer just to continue oral supplements with vitamins and minerals. IV infusions of vitamins and supplements carries the risk of infection, and the risks of infection outweigh any potential benefits.”
— Clifford Segil, DO
“It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any NAD+ supplementation regimen, especially if you have any underlying health conditions. They can help you interpret the existing research and determine whether NAD+ supplementation is appropriate for you,” Parulekar added.
Will the world-famous
groundhog Punxsutawney Phil see his shadow at his Gobbler’s Knob home in Pennsylvania on Feb. 2, predicting six more weeks of winter or an early spring? Lipton Hard Iced Tea says, “Who
Cares?” as the brand unveils its own “groundhog,” who is definitely throwing the approximately two-foot-tall Phil more than a little shade.
The nine-foot-tall groundhog
statue, made entirely out of 6,000 Lipton Hard Iced Tea cans, was built to launch the brand’s new 12-pack cans of its Citrus Green Tea Flavor.
“Can Daddy,” as the brand has
named him, weighs an estimated 250 lbs. and took the team tasked with building him more than 150 hours to complete. Can Daddy is currently making his way through Pennsylvania stopping for
appearances on Jan. 31 in Pittsburgh. The brand has also erected a sun-powered “shadow billboard that will cast a hidden message on Saturday” at the Indiana, Pennsylvania, stop. Those in
attendance can also try samples of the Hard Iced Tea. Fans can follow his adventures on the brand’s Instagram platform.
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“We’re all about bringing fun and flavor to the moments that
matter,” said Lisa Texido, brand director at Lipton Hard Iced Tea, in a release. “Groundhog Day is an iconic tradition, and we wanted to take it to new heights—literally. Whether you’re raising
a can to winter or to an early spring, Lipton Hard Iced Tea is here to bring the good vibes.”
Fans of Chunk the Groundhog, the Instagram celebrity pet known for his love of stealing
vegetables, are in for their own Groundhog Day celebration. The brand has also teamed up with the creature’s creator for his own prediction on Feb. 2: What is his favorite flavor of Lipton Hard Iced
Tea? The results will be posted to Chunk’s social platforms.
The brand also has two fan contests with very different prizes. Those who want to make the Can Daddy statue their very own
can visit the brand’s Instagram and comment “Groundhog” on its Groundhog day post to be entered in the sweepstakes with that prize.
More traditionally, Lipton has also launched a
warm weather getaway contest, for which consumers need to log on to liptonhardtea.com/groundhogday to enter before “the sun sets” on Feb. 2.