A small study from the US Department of Agriculture reports that low zinc might be the root cause of poor muscle strength and impaired cardiorespiratory and metabolic responses during and after exercise. This trial measured the effects of low versus high zinc intake...
zinc
ADHD: New research is promising
Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) now affects between five and 10% of our school-aged children, most of them boys. It is characterized by hyperactivity, distractedness and difficulty with problem solving that can cause learning and behavioural problems in...
Low minerals have a role in hair loss
Health experts say hormonal imbalances, medical side effects and psychological factors may cause temporary and reversible hair loss. Two recent studies indicate mineral deficiencies might also play a role. One study from the UK reported that hair loss after...
Easing Eczema: Top three therapies
Eczema is the most common form of dermatitis, a term which literally means “inflamed skin.” The condition can affect people young and old and encompasses a number of red, itchy skin conditions. Eczema may look like a dry, scaly rash or weepy, oozing blisters. It is...
Mineral Medicine: Zinc helps kids recover from pneumonia
The addition of zinc to standard antimicrobial treatment may accelerate recovery from pneumonia, say researchers in this week's issue of the Lancet. Pneumonia is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in children less than five years old. Zinc is reported to...
Supplements improve male infertility
Fertility problems affect about one in six couples and 30% of cases are linked to improper sperm production. For couples with this issue, two recent studies highlight the benefits of nutritional supplements. At the University of Ancona in Italy, a pilot study examined...
Healing ulcers safely and naturally
An ulcer results from damage to the protective lining of the stomach and produces abdominal tenderness, pain or “burning” about 45 minutes after meals, or during the night. There is usually blood present in the stool as well. Peptic ulcers typically occur in the...
Think Zinc! Many Canadians may be low, say researchers
One out of every four Canadians eat diets that are low in the mineral zinc, according to researchers from McGill University who analyzed data from the Food Habits of Canadians Study. Zinc plays a key role in immune function where it is needed for the body to develop...
Mobility Mineral? Taking zinc lowers risk for arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an immune system disease in which the body attacks its own joint tissue, leading to pain, swelling and limited motion. Many research studies show that dietary choices can have a significant effect on the severity of the disease. According to a...
Colds and canker sores? Try zinc
Zinc is a trace mineral that supports a number of body systems, including the immune system. Recent clinical studies show that zinc can reduce the duration of a cold and may also help with chronic canker sores. At the Heritage Center in Utah, researchers studied the...