Extra vitamin D may not prevent childhood bone fractures, vitamin B12 is passed along through breast milk, beans are good for cancer survivors, vitamin B9 reduces the risk of bowel cancer, fermented foods reduce stress, and fungi may slow brain aging.
Every week we discover inspiring, informative, and sometimes shocking health-related news. From new studies to insightful analysis, here is what you need to know this week:
- Vitamin D supplementation in children may not prevent childhood bone fractures. A new study of nearly 9,000 schoolchildren in Mongolia showed that administering additional vitamin D did not reduce the likelihood of bone breaks or increase bone strength. The study administered a weekly dose of 14,000 IUs vs. a placebo. The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology
- Vitamin B12 supplementation in women during and post-pregnancy increased the levels of the vitamin in their breast milk. Vitamin B12, crucial for infant development, was found to be more present in breast milk if women supplemented after giving birth. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
- Beans have been found to improve the overall health of colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors. New research shows that a cup of navy beans added to a daily diet positively impacts the gut microbiome for this subgroup of cancer survivors. eBioMedicine
- Folate (vitamin B9) has been shown to reduce the risk of bowel cancer. Data from over 70,000 individuals was analyzed to show that folate, found in spinach, broccoli, cabbage, and other leafy greens, can reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
- Fermented foods and yogurt may help to prevent depression and anxiety. New research indicates that Lactobacillus, bacteria found in fermented foods, supports the body in managing stress. Brain, Behavior, and Immunity
- Certain fungi and red algae may support brain health. More specifically, 1,5-anhydro-D-fructose seemingly induces anti-aging effects in the brain by inducing 5′-Adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation. Aging