Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors

Vitamin D is ‘It’ Nutrient with Success Against Diabetes, Cancer, Heart Disease, Osteoporosis

Many of the 23 million Americans with diabetes have low vitamin D levels

Jan. 12, 2009 - Vitamin D may prevent or delay the onset of diabetes and reduce complications for those who have already been diagnosed. Welcome news for many senior citizens, who are also eyeing Vitamin D because of other recent reports showing it offers health benefits for diseases, including cancer, osteoporosis, heart disease. Read more...

Evidence Mounts that Vitamin E Does Not Stop Prostate Cancer, Nor Does Selenium, Vitamin C

JAMA publishes 2 studies released early in public interest on supplements’ ineffectiveness in preventing cancer

Jan. 7, 2009 - In perhaps the largest cancer chemoprevention trial ever conducted, researchers have found that supplementation with vitamin E or selenium, alone or in combination, was not associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer or other cancers. And, in a second study in today’s Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), long-term supplementation with vitamin E or C did not reduce the risk of prostate or other cancers. Both reports were released early online in December due to public health implications. Read more...

Grape Seed Extract Causes Leukemia Cells to Commit Suicide in Laboratory Test

Possible implications for prevention or treatment of hematological malignancies, other cancers

Dec. 31, 2008 - An extract from grape seeds forces laboratory leukemia cells to commit cell suicide, according to researchers from the University of Kentucky. They found that within 24 hours, 76 percent of leukemia cells had died after being exposed to the extract. Read more...

Complementary and Alternative Medicine Info for Seniors Added to NIHSeniorHealth.com

Website is joint effort of the National Institute on Aging and National Library of Medicine

Dec. 15, 2008 – The use of complementary and alternative medicine declines as Americans move up into the ranks of senior citizens – probably due to lack of coverage by Medicare for most of these – but still a substantial number of seniors use CAM. To help seniors make better therapy choices, the topic has been added to NIHSeniorHealth.com. Read more...

Lack of Medicare Coverage May Account for Decline in Alternative Medicine Use by Seniors

New survey finds 38 percent of adults use complimentary and alternative medicine: pain primary reason

Dec. 12, 2008 – A new survey finds complimentary and alternative medicine in the US is primarily used to fight pain, yet, usage tends to decline as adults become senior citizens, who are the most likely to suffer with pain. The decline is probably because Medicare does not cover “alternative therapies,” other than chiropractic care. Read more...

Vitamins C, E and Selenium Fail to Prevent Prostate Cancer in Massive Studies

Do not work against other cancers either say studies released early by JAMA

Dec. 9, 2008 – Two major cancer prevention studies have found that two of the most popular vitamins – E, and C - nor the supplement selenium do not lower the risk for prostate cancer, or other cancers. Both studies will be published January 7 in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) but are bring released early because of the important public health implications. Read more...

Scientists Find New Way to Detect, Treat Vitamin D Deficiency that Threatens Heart

Lack of vitamin D spells heart trouble as well as a lot of other ailments

Dec. 2, 2008 – There is little doubt left that a deficiency of vitamin D is a warning sign for cardiovascular disease – as well as many other ailments from bone weakness to Parkinson’s disease. A new review of available research has produced practical recommendations for detecting and treating this potentially critical problem. Read more...

Ginkgo Biloba Does Not Appear To Prevent Dementia, Alzheimer's Disease in Elderly

The rate of total dementia did not differ between seniors assigned to Ginkgo biloba vs. placebo

Nov. 18, 2008 - The herb Ginkgo biloba has been aggressively marketed to senior citizens around the world as a way to improve memory and even prevent dementia. A new study, however, says the herb is not effective in reducing the rate of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease among senior citizens age 75 or older. Read more...

Vitamin E Nor C Supplements Offer Cancer Protection for Older Men; Nor Heart Protection

Eating a diet rich in vitamins E and C was found to  lower risk of cancer in earlier studies

Nov. 17, 2008 – It has not been a good month for vitamins E and C. A study released yesterday found no protective effect from vitamin E on prostate cancer or vitamin C supplementation on total cancer. This follows a study released earlier in the month that says neither vitamin E nor vitamin C supplements reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events in a study of older men. Read more...

Vitamins E and C Fail to Beat Placebo in Preventing Cardiovascular Disease in Older Men

Earlier studies have suggested E helps fight cardiovascular disease, C reduces risk of heart disease

Nov. 10, 2008 - Neither vitamin E nor vitamin C supplements reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events in a large, long-term study of older male physicians, according to a study in the November 12 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). The article was released early online yesterday to coincide with the scientific presentation of the study findings at the American Heart Association meeting. Read more...

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Grapes May Be Ultimate Weapon to Fight High Blood Pressure, Salty Diet and Protect Heart

	'Something within the grapes themselves has a direct impact on cardiovascular risk'

Research shows grape intake reduces hypertension, signs of heart muscle damage, and improves heart function in lab rats

Oct. 29, 2008 - Could eating grapes help fight high blood pressure related to a salty diet? And could grapes calm other factors that are also related to heart diseases such as heart failure? ...Read more...

Health & Medicine for Senior Citizen

Selenium or Vitamin E to Stop Prostate Cancer May Do More Harm Than Good

National Cancer Institute stops clinical trial from going forward

Oct. 27, 2008 – Selenium and vitamin E supplements, taken either alone or together, did not prevent prostate cancer in a study funded by the National Cancer Institute. The data did show, however, two concerning trends: a small but not statistically significant increase in the number of prostate cancer cases among the over 35,000 men age 50 and older in the trial taking only vitamin E, and a small, but not statistically significant increase in the number of cases of adult onset diabetes in men taking only selenium. Read more...

Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors

Annual Report on Dietary Supplement Studies in 2007 Has a Few Nuggets for Senior Citizens

Selected top papers refer to seniors and folic acid, genistein, beta-carotene, vitamins E, B, C,

Oct. 23, 2008 - There were just a few valuable nuggets for senior citizens in the ninth issue of the Annual Bibliography of Significant Advances in Dietary Supplement Research, which was published today by the Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Read more...

Eating Fruits and Vegetables Can Help Cancer Patients Respond Better to Chemotherapy

Naturally occurring apigenin facilitates the death of cancer cells in UC Riverside study

Oct. 22, 2008 – The leading cause of death in all cancer patients continues to be the resistance of tumor cells to chemotherapy, a treatment in which chemicals are used to kill cells. A new study has found that ingesting apigenin – a naturally occurring dietary agent found in vegetables and fruit – improves cancer cells' response to chemotherapy. Read more...

Drinking Alcohol May Protect Hearts in Older People but It Shrinks Their Brains

The more alcohol consumed, the smaller the total brain volume; stronger in women

Oct. 13, 2008 – Senior citizens who have reveled for years in the thought that their daily dose of alcohol was good for their health got a real shock today. It may be good for your heart, and even your health, but it shrinks your brain, researchers say in a new study. The more alcohol consumed, the smaller the total brain volume. Read more...

Dementia Won’t Improve for Older People by Taking Procaine but Health Might Suffer

A topical anesthetic, normally, procaine has been touted as anti-aging drug that might prevent or even reverse dementia

Oct. 9, 2008 - Procaine, a medication that is normally used as a topical anesthetic , has been touted as an anti-aging drug that might prevent or even reverse dementia. A new Cochrane Review, however, suggests that the risks of bad side effects outweigh any benefit. Procaine is also known as novocaine. Read more...

Vitamin C May Help Old Men Maintain Stronger Bones, Fight Osteoporosis

Did not see significant effects of vitamin C intake on bone in old women

By Rosalie Marion Bliss, ARS

Oct. 8, 2008 - Findings from a new study suggest vitamin C may be protective against bone loss in older men. Researchers funded by the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) reported the findings in the October issue of the Journal of Nutrition. Read more...

Red Wine Lowers Lung Cancer Risk in Older Men, Especially Smokers

Two percent lower lung cancer risk with each glass of red wine consumed per month

Oct. 7, 2008 – Moderate drinking of red wine may lower the risk of lung cancer in older men, particularly if they are smokers, according to a report in the October issue of Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention¸ a journal of the American Association for Cancer Research. Read more...

Remember the Bump? It's Back for Older Women as Way to Prevent Falls, Hip Fractures

Website to fight falls and fractured hips, Survey finds women not well informed – offers calcium calculator

Sept. 13, 2008 - Fall is just around the corner, and hopefully it is the change of season kind, rather than the fall caused by change in your ability to balance. But, more than 352,000 people – mostly female senior citizens – will suffer a broken hip this year and 90 percent of these will be due to a fall. But there may be help found in that old dance called the “bump” – the dance in which people bump hips to the beat of the music. Read more...

Calcium Calculator Now Online to Help Senior Citizens Fight Osteoporosis, Bone Breaks

People who are physically active and get enough calcium can strengthen their bones - even in old age

Sept. 12, 2008 - A stumble, a fall - a broken bone: many older people are afraid of this happening, according to the German Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care, which today made available online a calcium calculator. Research shows that regular adequate intake of calcium and exercise can strengthen the bones and prevent falls. Read more...

Vitamin B Deficiency Linked to Cognitive Impairment; Senior Citizens Often Low on B6

Nutrition research center on aging at Tufts U. releases second recent study on vitamin B

Sept. 2, 2008 – Just a few months ago, researchers identified senior citizens as a group that tended to have levels of vitamin B6 that are consistently too low. The same research center released a new study today showing that a deficiency of B-vitamins may cause cognitive impairment. Mice with a deficiency of three B-vitamins - folate, B12 and B6 - developed cognitive dysfunction in the study. Read more...

Shotgun Approach with Black Raspberry Agents Does Best Job of Slowing Cancer

Black raspberries have vitamins, minerals, phenols and phytosterols, many of which prevent cancer in animals

Aug. 27, 2008 – A shotgun approach may be more effective than a rifle’s pin point accuracy, when it comes to stopping cancer growth. New research has found that a mix of preventative agents, such as those found in concentrated black raspberries, more effectively inhibit cancer development than single agents aimed at shutting down one particular gene. Read more...

New Reason Seniors May Need to Avoid Grapefruit, Other Juices with Medications

Consult with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medications with grapefruit juice or other fruits and juices

Life-saving drugs may become ineffective, if patient consumes grapefruit or even other common fruit juices, including orange and apple

Aug. 19, 2008 – Drugs often prescribed for senior citizens fighting life threatening conditions, such as heart disease, cancer, organ-transplant rejection and infection, may become ineffective if the patient consumes grapefruit or even other common fruit juices, including orange and apple. Read more...

Study of Older People Finds Cocoa Flavanol Improves Blood Flow to the Brain

Better brain blood flow could impact cognitive behavior, offer protection from dementia and stroke

Aug. 18, 2008 - In a scientific study of healthy, older adults ages 59 to 83, Harvard medical scientists found that study participants who regularly drank a cocoa flavanol-rich beverage made using the Mars, Incorporated Cocoapro process had an eight percent increase in brain blood flow after one week, and 10 percent increase after two weeks. Read more...

Low Level of Vitamin D Seems to Be Invitation to Most Deadly Diseases: Increases Death Risk

May be associated with death through effect on blood pressure, the body’s ability to respond to insulin, obesity and diabetes risk

Aug. 12, 2008 – The studies are piling up that show a low level of vitamin D increases your risk of death. The latest study in the Archives of Internal Medicine says a lack of the sun vitamin puts you at higher risk of death from all causes. This follows a study of older people released in June that reached the same conclusion. Read more...

Eat Oily Fish at Least Once a Week to Protect Your Eyesight in Old Age

Consumption of oily fish at least once a week makes you 50% less likely to have wet AMD

Aug. 8, 2008 - Eating oily fish once a week may reduce age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which is the major cause of blindness and poor vision in senior citizens. It is also the number three cause of blindness in the world, according to a study published today in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Read more...

Herbs and Spices Found to be Good Soldiers in War on Aging and Diabetes

Season food liberally with herbs and spices to double or even triple the medicinal value of your meal without increasing the caloric content

Aug. 6, 2008 – Herbs and spices – low in calories and relatively inexpensive – could be a good choice for senior citizens battling aging and diabetes. University of Georgia researchers have found they are potent inhibitors of tissue damage and inflammation caused by high levels of blood sugar. Read more...

More Sugar-Sweetened Drinks, Less Fruit Both Increase Diabetes Risk; Low-Fat Diet a Wash

‘Our number one goal for the reduction of new cases of type 2 diabetes mellitus should be to reduce the intake of high-energy, low-benefit foods’

July 29, 2008 - Senior citizens are increasingly alert to the risk of diabetes as they see it attack more and more of their peers. Three new studies offer interesting insight into eating habits and their association with the disease. Drinking more sugar-sweetened sodas or eating fewer fruits and vegetables may both be associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. On the other hand, eating a low-fat diet does not appear to be associated with any change in diabetes risk. Read more...

Tilapia Not the Good Fish Seniors Assumed for Fighting Heart Disease with Omega 3

Potentially dangerous for patients with heart disease, arthritis, asthma and other allergic and auto-immune diseases – mostly senior citizens

July 8, 2008 – When the healthcare community recommends something – like eating fish – as a way to guard against heart disease, the most endangered Americans – that would be senior citizens – rush to comply. This time, however, things are being thrown into reverse by new research finding that farm-raised tilapia, which became one of America’s favorites in this rush to the fish shop, has very low levels of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids and, perhaps worse, very high levels of omega-6 fatty acids. Read more...

Resverstrol in Red Wine Prevents Breast Cancer Development in Laboratory Study

Prevents first step when estrogen starts process that leads to cancer by blocking formation of DNA adducts

July 7, 2008 – Resverstrol, that substance found in red wine that so often gets that drink publicity as a health benefit, has been found in a laboratory study to suppresses the abnormal cell formation that leads to most types of breast cancer, suggesting a potential role for the agent in breast cancer prevention. Read more...

Measuring Calcium Deposits in Heart’s Arteries Predicts Heart Attack Risk in Elderly

‘Calcium scans can be the best predictor available to detect who is likely to suffer a heart attack’

July 2, 2008 – Senior citizens who worry if they are at risk of a heart attack, which probably includes about all of them, may be surprised by a very large new study that finds measuring calcium deposits in the heart's arteries is probably the best way to predict overall death risk in American adults, even when they are elderly. Read more...

Mounting Evidence that Low Levels of Vitamin D Increase Death Risk for Older People

Death rates from any cause and from cardiovascular causes were higher with low vitamin D

June 23, 2008 – Vitamin D is something we used to not worry about. Most of us got plenty from the sun and being a little low was only a worry that your bones may not be the strongest. Mostly, however, we thought that was something our mothers said just to get us to drink more milk. There is, however, mounting evidence that vitamin D is far more important that many of us thought. Read more...

Women Drinking Large Amounts of Coffee May Lower Their Risk of Death

Video link in story

Study finds coffee drinkers – caffeinated and decaf - with slightly lower death rates; men about even

June 17, 2008 – A new study published today in Annals of Internal Medicine has good news for coffee drinkers: Regular coffee drinking (up to 6 cups per day) is not associated with increased deaths in either men or women. In fact, both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee consumption is associated with a somewhat smaller rate of death from heart disease. Read more...

Low Sodium Makes it Difficult for Older Adults to Think, Focus, Maintain Balance

Clinical trial seeks older patients to test medicine's impact on cognitive abilities - more news on low sodium

June 13, 2008 - Low sodium in the blood can make it harder to think and focus, and it is common in older adults. Simple things such as forgetting your golf score, struggling with crossword puzzles, or having a loss of balance, could be a sign of low sodium. A new clinical trial is seeking some older Americans to test a drug that may help seniors whose brain function is impaired by low sodium. Read more...

Vitamin D Called the ‘Heart Tranquilizer’ in New Treatment for Heart Failure

Treatments with activated vitamin D prevented heart muscle cells from growing bigger

By Anne Rueter, University Michigan

June 12, 2008 – Strong bones, a healthy immune system, protection against some types of cancer: Recent studies suggest there’s yet another item for the expanding list of Vitamin D benefits. Vitamin D, “the sunshine vitamin,” keeps the heart, the body’s long-distance runner, fit for life’s demands. University of Michigan pharmacologist Robert U. Simpson, Ph.D., thinks it’s apt to call vitamin D “the heart tranquilizer.” Read more...

Increased Risk of Heart Attack Now Added to Dangers for Men with Low Vitamin D Level

Vitamin D deficiency related to an increasing number of conditions and to total mortality

June 9, 2008 – Older men with low levels of vitamin D in their systems appear to be at an increased risk of a heart attack. This is just the latest in a series of studies that have found vitamin D playing a key role in preventing serious health problems, including depression, cancer, high blood pressure, falls by elderly, and the list goes on. One study last September said it lowers the risk of death from any cause. Read more...

More Evidence that Chinese Red Yeast Rice Has Stunning Ability to Prevent Heart Attacks

Latest study in American Journal of Cardiology says cancer mortality also reduced by two-thirds, all mortality one-third

June 9, 2008 – A study released today joins a steady flow in the last ten years that indicate Chinese red yeast rice has a stunning ability to protect against heart attacks. The latest report found a partially purified extract of the rice, known as Xuezhikang (XZK), reduced the risk of a repeat heart attack by 45% in patients who had already suffered one attack. It also claims cancer mortality risk was reduced by two-thirds and total mortality by one-third. Read more...

Resveratrol in Red Wine May Achieve Same Longevity Results as Starvation Dieting Study important because it suggests that resveratrol and caloric restriction may govern the same master genetic pathways related to aging June 4, 2008 – Scientists have long maintained senior citizens can extend their lives by strict adherence to a diet that rigidly restricts calorie intake. Now, scientists may  have discovered how to accomplish this without starving yourself. It is a choice most seniors will gladly choose over severe calorie restriction – drinking red wine. A new study says low doses of the resveratrol in red wine may achieve the same longevity results as starvation dieting. Read more... Starving Yourself to Vastly Extended Life Span Suggested by Recent Study Report 10-fold life span extension in simple organism – baker’s yeast June 4, 2008 - Biologists have created baker’s yeast capable of living to 800 in yeast years without apparent side effects and this may suggest strategies for helping humans live healthier and longer. The basic but important discovery, achieved through a combination of dietary and genetic changes, brings science closer to controlling the survival and health of the unit of all living systems: the cell. Read more...

Seniors Avoiding All Fats to Prevent Heart Disease Are Missing Benefits of Some

American Heart Association finds most unaware "Better Fats" help, expands national fats awareness campaign

May 22, 2008 – Senior citizens, more aware of the threat of heart disease than most young people, are very often among those who avoid all “fat” in their foods. Unfortunately, the American Heart Association has found that most people do not know you should not avoid all fats. The “better” fats - monounsaturated and polyunsaturated - can help reduce their risk of heart disease. Read more...link to video

Senior Citizens Offered Tips on Eating Well as You Age by National Institutes of Health

Eating well is vital at any age, but as you get older, your daily food choices can make an important difference in your health

May 12, 2008 - How should you eat as you get older? Which foods are likely to keep you most healthy and which ones should you limit? Is it possible to eat well and stay within a healthy weight? These and other questions are addressed in "Eating Well as You Get Older," the latest topic to be added to NIHSeniorHealth, the health and wellness Web site developed by the National Institute on Aging (NIA) and the National Library of Medicine (NLM), both part of the National Institutes of Health. Read more...

Low Blood Levels of Vitamin D May Be Associated With Depression in Older Adults

May 5, 2008 - Older adults with low blood levels of vitamin D and high blood levels of a hormone secreted by the parathyroid glands may have a higher risk of depression, according to a report in the May issue of Archives of General Psychiatry, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. Read more...

DASH Diet to Control Blood Pressure May Also Lower Risk of Heart Disease for Women

April 14, 2008 - Women who eat diets similar to the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet—which is low in animal protein, moderate in low-fat dairy products and high in plant proteins, fruits and vegetables—appear to have a lower risk of coronary heart disease and stroke, according to a report in the April 14 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. Read more...

Senior Citizen Health & Medicine

Another Study Points to Higher Breast Cancer Risk from Alcohol for Older Women

The more older (postmenopausal) women drink the greater the risk

April 14, 2008 – A large study has confirmed several previous studies showing that drinking alcohol is a substantial risk factor among older women for the development of breast cancer. This study focused on the most common type of breast cancer – the 70% found positive for both estrogen and progesterone receptors, referred to as "ER+/PR+" breast cancer. And, the study says the more one drinks the higher the risk. Read more...

Tart Cherries May Become Senior Citizen Favorite – Lower Risks for Heart Disease, Diabetes

Pain Relief, Too See full report below news story.

Inflammation, body fat, weight gain and blood cholesterol all lower in rats fed cherries on top of high-fat, Western-style diet

April 7, 2008 - Tart cherries – frequently sold dried, frozen or in juice – may have more than just good taste and bright red color going for them, according to new animal research from the University of Michigan Cardiovascular Center. Read more... how cherries help fight arthritis pain, too.

New Study Confirms Red Wine Antioxidant Kills Cancer

Researchers pinpoint how resveratrol induces pancreatic cancer cell death

March 26, 2008 - Researchers showed for the first time that a natural antioxidant found in grape skins and red wine can help destroy pancreatic cancer cells by reaching to the cell's core energy source, or mitochondria, and crippling its function. The study is published in the March edition of the journal, Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology. Read more...

Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Advice on Use Presented by Mayo Clinic

Thousands of studies have documented the cardiovascular benefits

March 10, 2008 – Thousands of studies have documented the cardiovascular benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. The March issue of Mayo Clinic Proceedings wades through the data to provide physicians and consumers with the current findings and recommendations related to these oils. Read more...

Magic Bullet to Zap Cholesterol May Be Visit with a Dietitian

Many patients can reach LDL cholesterol goal through dietary changes alone

March 4, 2008 - Worried about your cholesterol? You certainly have plenty of company among senior citizens. One idea for help may be a few appointments with a registered dietitian, to get some sound advice about how to shape up your eating habits, according to a new national study led by University of Michigan Health System researchers. Almost half of those in this study reduced bad cholesterol at least 15 percent. Read more....

Vitamin E May Increase Lung Cancer Risk; Other Vitamins Fail to Lower Risk Like Fruit

Supplement use comes from the desire to mimic the benefits of a healthy diet with convenient pill

Feb.29, 2008 - Vitamin supplements do not protect against lung cancer, according to a study of more than 77,000 vitamin users. In fact, some supplements may even increase the risk of developing it. On the other hand, eating fruit daily may reduce risk for lung cancer, as well as reduced risk of several other cancers and cardiovascular disease. Read more...

Bladder Tumors’ Cut More than Half by Eating Extract of Broccoli Sprouts

More evidence that cruciferous vegetables offer cancer protection

Feb. 28, 2008 – A concentrated extract of freeze dried broccoli sprouts cut development of bladder tumors in an animal model by more than half, according to a report in the March 1 issue of Cancer Research, a journal of the American Association for Cancer Research. Read more...

Men Should Swap Multivitamins for Vitamin D, Says Harvard Health Watch

It’s time put multivitamins on hold to reassess the value, safety

Feb. 28, 2008 - Although physician-scientists and supplement manufacturers are often at odds, they don’t spend much time sparring over multivitamins. In fact, half the physicians on the Harvard Men’s Health Watch advisory board report taking a multivitamin themselves. Read more...

Fat Free Milk, with Calcium, Vitamin D Foods Reduces High Blood Pressure Risk for Older Women

Hypertension a rising risk for U.S. women says American Heart Association

Feb. 20, 2008 - Women who drank more fat free milk and had higher intakes of calcium and vitamin D from foods, and not supplements, tended to have a lower risk for developing hypertension or high blood pressure, according to a new study published in the American Heart Association journal, Hypertension. Read more...

Most Cancer Survivors Found to Depend on Vitamins, Mineral Supplements

Current evidence of benefit is lacking; Research has been minimal

Breast cancer survivors report highest use (75-87%); prostate cancer survivors report least (26-35%)

Feb. 1, 2008 – Although some research suggests that certain supplements may actually interfere with treatment or even accelerate cancer growth, among the 10 million adults who survive cancer there is widespread use of vitamin and mineral supplements – 64-81% of survivors versus 50% of general population. Read more...

Senior Citizen Health & Medicine

Caffeine Appears to Lower Ovarian Cancer Risk; Smoking, Alcohol No Effect

Caffeine may lower risk, particularly in women not using hormones

Jan. 23, 2008 - A very large new study has found that cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption do not have an effect on ovarian cancer risk, while caffeine intake may lower the risk, particularly in women not using hormones. The study is published in the March 1, 2008 issue of CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society. Read more...

Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors

Senior Citizens Low on Vitamin E May See Decline in Physical Function

Authors don’t recommend vitamin supplements but suggest almonds, tomato sauce, and sunflower seeds, etc.

Jan. 22, 2008 – A study of senior citizens to see if low levels of certain micronutrients lead to a decline in physical function has concluded that low levels of vitamin E does indeed indicate poor nutrition and progressive physical decline. The study will be in the Jan. 23 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association. Read more...

Aspirin Reduces Colorectal Cancer Risk with Regular, Long-Term Use

Men using aspirin regularly experienced a significantly lower risk

Jan. 22, 2008 – The regular, long-term use of aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reduces the risk associated with colorectal cancer, according to a study published in Gastroenterology. However, the use of aspirin to stop or prevent (chemoprevention) colorectal cancer may require using the drug at doses that are higher than recommended over a long period of time, which may cause serious side effects including gastrointestinal bleeding. Read more...

Calcium Loses Ability to Prevent Bone Loss Unless Bolstered with Vitamin D

Study of elderly women finds D2 with calcium keeps on working

Jan. 17, 2008 – Elderly women fighting to prevent bone loss saw their calcium pills become no more effective than placebos after about three years, in a recent study. The researchers found, however, that combining vitamin D with the calcium sustained the bone loss prevention throughout the five year study. Read more...

Vitamin D2 Helps Prevent Falls Among High-Risk Female Senior Citizens

Vitamin D2 reduced risk of having at least one fall by 19%

Jan. 14, 2008 - Vitamin D2 supplements appear to reduce the risk of falls among senior citizen women with a history of falling and low blood vitamin D levels living in sunny climates, especially during the winter, according to a report in the January 14 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. Read more & links to more on vitamin D...

Senior Citizens Get Their Own Food Pyramid Updated by Tufts Researchers

Tufts scientists work with federal agencies to establish the USDA Dietary Guidelines

Dec. 20, 2007 - Tufts University researchers have updated their Food Guide Pyramid for Older Adults to correspond with the USDA food pyramid, now known as MyPyramid. The Tufts version is specifically designed for older adults and has changed in appearance and content. The Modified MyPyramid for Older Adults continues to emphasize nutrient-dense food choices and the importance of fluid balance, but has added additional guidance about forms of foods that could best meet the unique needs of older adults and about the importance of regular physical activity. Read more...

Green Tea Antioxidants Provide Double Whammy When Citrus Added

Catechins, naturally occurring antioxidants in tea, stay available after digestion

Nov. 14, 2007 – Many senior citizens are among those who drink green tea for the reported health benefits, like reduced risk of cancer, heart attack and stroke. But, a new study suggests you can get even more of a boost by just adding a little juice to the tea. Read more...

Alzheimer's, Dementia & Mental Health

	Earlier Proposal
	Alzheimer's 'Cocktail' Hailed as New Hope for Patients April 28, 2006 - MIT brain researchers have developed a "cocktail" of dietary supplements that holds promise for treating of Alzheimer's disease.  Read more...

Senior Citizens Significantly Lower Dementia Risk Eating Fish, Omega-3 Oils, Fruits, Veggies

Watch for omega-6 oils – they can increase your chances of memory problems finds study of older people

Nov. 13, 2007 – A study of senior citizens – 8,085 men and women over age 65 – has determined that a diet rich in fish, omega-3 oils, fruits and vegetables may lower your risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, whereas consuming omega-6 rich oils could increase chances of developing memory problems. This is certainly not the first research to reach this conclusion. Read more...

Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors

Study Finds Long-Term Use of Beta Carotene May Prevent Cognitive Decline

No convincing justification to recommend the use of antioxidant dietary supplements to maintain cognitive performance: editorial

Nov. 12, 2007 - Men who take beta carotene supplements for 15 years or longer may have less cognitive decline, according to a report in the November 12 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. Beta carotene is a colorful fat-soluble compound naturally present in many fruits, grains, oil and vegetables. Read more...

Mormons Have Less Heart Disease Due to Monthly Fasting Says Study

Report to American Heart Association says people who skip meals better off

Nov. 6, 2007 – Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS or Mormons) have lower rates of heart disease than other Americans and a new study of older people indicates it may be linked to their religious practice of skipping food for one day a month. The Mormon religion also prohibits smoking and it was previously assumed this was the reason they enjoyed healthier hearts. Read more...

Vitamin D Does Not Deter Cancer Deaths but Does Reduce Colon Cancer Risk

Highly hyped vitamin D takes a blow from massive study but not dead yet

Oct. 30, 2007 – Vitamin D has received considerable favorable attention lately, primarily as a way to stop cancer, but idea came crashing down today with the release of a large study – 16,818 participants – that concluded a higher vitamin D level is not associated with a lower risk of drying from cancer. But wait, the hype is not totally dead – this study did conclude that D substantially decreases the risk of colorectal cancer. Read more...

Older Men Can Reduce Heart Failure Risk by Eating More Whole Grain Cereal

Breakfast cereals with at least 25% oat or bran content were used in study

Oct. 23, 2007 - Men who consume a higher amount of whole grain breakfast cereals may have a reduced risk of heart failure, according to a report in the October 22 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. Read more...

Senior Citizens Prefer American Food More Than Other Adults When Eating Out

Matures 3-to-1 more likely to choose French food, cool to Japanese

Oct. 19, 2007 - When senior citizens, or “Matures,” as Harris Interactive calls them, go out to eat they want American food. Harris found, in fact, thisis the favorite food for most American adults, but no age group is as adamant about their meat and potatoes as are the oldest Americans. Read more...

Diet Counseling Leads to Only Modest Improvement in Heart Risks

Those with risk factor elevation - such as high blood pressure or cholesterol - respond better than those at ‘average’ levels

Oct. 17, 2007 – Senior citizens, in their unending fight against heart disease, are frequently advised to select a diet that will help reduce their risk. A review of 38 studies, however, finds the that dietary advice does lead to modest improvement in risk factors such as high cholesterol and blood pressure, especially in people at higher risk.The reviewer suggests, however, these diets may lead to more health improvements than the study indicates. Read more...

Low-Fat Diet Appears to Lower Risk of Ovarian Cancer for Older Women

Women on diet low in fat  40% less likely to develop ovarian cancer

Oct. 10, 2007 - A diet low in fat could reduce the risk of ovarian cancer in healthy older (postmenopausal) women, according to new results from the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) Dietary Modification Trial. Researchers found that after four years, women who decreased the amount of dietary fat they consumed were 40 percent less likely to develop ovarian cancer than women who followed normal dietary patterns. Read more...

Senior Citizens May Not Get Calcium Needed Due to Confusing Food Labels

Consumers often don't get nutritional information they need due to confusion

Oct. 5, 2007 - Current food labeling leads to under-consumption of calcium, an important additive for senior citizens fighting against osteoporosis, and this is probably true for other nutrients, according to a new study. The problem can be improved, the researchers say, if consumers are taught to better translate the information on the food package label. Read more...

Quercetin Identified as Flavonol to Reduce Risk of Pancreatic Cancer

Smokers benefit most from intake of 'hidden' plant nutrients

Oct. 4, 2007 - Eating flavonol-rich foods may help reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer, says a team of international researchers. Quercetin, which is found naturally in apples, onions and red wine, has been identified as one of the most beneficial flavonols (subgroup of flavonoids) in preventing and reducing the risk of pancreatic cancer. Read more...

Ornish Diet Best, USDA Food Pyramid Down the List for Improving Heart Health

Study ranks popular weight-loss plans for reducing cardiovascular risk

Oct. 1, 2007 - The Department of Agriculture’s Food Pyramid needs repair, at least when it comes to diets that improve heart health, according to researchers who compared ten diet plans to see which one could best reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, the major killer of senior citizens. The Pyramid plan came in sixth in this test with the leader being the Ornish diet plan, which is specifically targeted at protection from heart disease. Read more...

Wine, Beer, Liquor It Doesn't Matter – Too Much Jumps Breast Cancer Risk

Three drinks of alcohol a day is as bad as smoking a pack a day

Sept. 27, 2007 – It makes no difference if women drink wine, beer or liquor - too much of any alcoholic drink is likely to trigger cancer. The increased risk of breast cancer from drinking three or more alcoholic drinks a day is similar to the increased risk from smoking one pack of cigarettes a day, concludes one of the largest studies ever on the effects of alcohol on breast cancer risk. Read more...

Vitamin E Studies Have Been Fatally Flawed for Years Says New Study

Amount needed to reduce oxidative stress far higher than used in clinical trials

Sept. 24, 2007 – Many senior citizens have kept a close eye on research about Vitamin E after studies indicated it could provide protection from heart disease, the number one killer of the elderly. But, the research to determine the power of Vitamin E to reduce oxidative stress and, therefore, preventing cardiovascular disease, has produced widely varying results. Now researchers say generations of studies on vitamin E may be largely meaningless, because the levels necessary to reduce oxidative stress are far higher than those that have been commonly used in clinical trials. Read more...

Age-Related Macular Degeneration Risk Lowered by Lutein and Zeaxanthin

Pigment found in spinach, egg yolk, corn protect the macula from blue light

Sept. 12, 2007 – A new study seems to confirm previous findings that consuming high levels of the plant pigments lutein and zeaxanthin may lower the risk for senior citizens of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of blindness in older people. Read more...

Vitamin D Supplements Appear to Lower Death Risk from Any Cause

Editorial: ‘moderate sun exposure, food fortification with vitamin D and higher-dose vitamin D supplements for adults need to be debated’

Sept. 11, 2007 – People who regularly take vitamin D supplements appear to have a lower risk of death from any cause, at least according to a study that followed the participants over six years. This amazing finding is reported today in the Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. Read more...

Chemists Say They Now Know How to Remove Bitterness from Coffee

Great news for senior citizens who already prefer coffee to sex

Aug. 22, 2007 – Chemists think they can make coffee taste better. That’s staggering news to millions of senior citizens who said in a poll that they would prefer to give up sex before their coffee. But, the scientists claim they have discovered what makes java bitter and say this could lead to even better tasting coffee. Read more...

Adequate Vitamin D3 Could Prevent 600,000 Breast, Colon Cancer Cases

Vitamin D3 is obtained through diet, supplements and sunlight

Aug. 22, 2007 – Vitamin D continues to win praise for its contribution to better health. This time it is a study that says 600,000 cases of breast and colon cancer could be prevented around the globe – 150,000 in the U.S. - each year if more people reached the recommended levels of vitamin D3. Read more...

Report Highlights Benefits of Vitamin D Supplements for Senior Citizens

Report will be basis of NIH conference on Vitamin D and bone health

Aug. 20, 2007 - A new report highlights the evidence for bone health benefits in postmenopausal women and older men (the majority over 60 years of age) from taking vitamin D supplements. It also confirms that vitamin D from ultraviolet-B (sunlight) exposure, fortified foods, or dietary supplements are all effective in raising the level of circulating vitamin D. Read more...

Western Red Meat-White Flour Diet Can Lead to Colon Cancer, Its Return and Death

Diet high in red and processed meats, sweets and desserts, french fries, and refined grains increases the risk of cancer recurrence and decreases survival

Aug. 14, 2007 – Regularly eating a “western diet” – lots of red meat, refined grains, fat and deserts, that many senior citizens grew up on – not only increases your risk of colon cancer, but it increases the chances that the cancer will return and you will die, according to new research to appear in the Journal of the American Medical Association tomorrow. The study compared these western diet eaters with those who had diets high in fruits and vegetables, and poultry and fish. Read more... Link to video with story.

Senior Citizens Find Guidance on Better Health with Omega-3 in Mayo Newsletter

Benefits for seniors: heart protection, lower blood pressure, even relief from rheumatoid arthritis

Aug. 14, 2007 – Omega-3 fatty acids should be as much a part of the healthy diet as are lots fruits and vegetables and very little fat and cholesterol, according to the Mayo Clinic Health Letter, which provides detailed advice on consuming these healthy fatty acids. This form of acid appears to have many health benefits for senior citizens, including heart protection, lower blood pressure and even relief from rheumatoid arthritis. Read more...

Antioxidant Supplements Fail to Protect High Risk Women from Cardiovascular Deaths

Use of vitamins C, E and beta carotene for cardiovascular protection not warranted

Aug. 13, 2007 – Those eating lots of fruits and vegetables, which are rich with antioxidants, are known to lower their risk of cardiovascular disease, but the results from a new study indicates these antioxidants to be effective may have to come from the plant foods, rather than from supplements like Vitamins C and E and beta carotene, all high in antioxidants. Read more...

Senior Citizens Need Just a Little More Protein-Rich Food to Maintain Muscle

Elderly just as able to turn protein into muscle as younger people

Aug. 13, 2007 - A new study suggests that a diet containing a moderate amount of protein-rich food such as beef, fish, pork, chicken, dairy or nuts may help slow the deterioration of elderly people’s muscles and, it also finds, that older bodies are just as capable as younger ones in turning this protein-rich food into muscle. Read more...

Older Women Who Drink Three Cups of Coffee Daily Protect Memory

Caffeine appears to reduce cognitive decline, but not in men

Aug. 7, 2007 – Women who have reached age 65 can protect their thinking ability by taking a heavy dose of caffeine – as in three cups of coffee a day. Even better news is the finding that this power increases with age – the older the women, the memory loss is less. The bad news is the study found it does not work for men. Read more...

Calcium, Vitamin D, Magnesium in Milk Reduce Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

15% lower risk among individuals with the highest dairy intake

July 10, 2007 – Most Americans, including senior citizens, fail to get the calcium and vitamin D they need, but this shortfall could be affecting more than their bones. It may, at least in part, be one reason behind the epidemic of type 2 diabetes, suggests new research conducted at Tufts University. Read more...

FDA Rules on Dietary Supplement Manufacturers Good News for Boomers, Senior Citizens

What you need to know about supplements. Government already provides lots of helpful information

July 5, 2007 - The Food and Drug Administration made a significant move on June 22 to establish regulations to require the manufacturers of dietary supplements to adhere to practices that will ensure the products are produced in a quality manner, do not contain contaminants or impurities, and are accurately labeled. It should be welcomed news to senior citizens and baby boomers – in particular women, who are the leading consumers of these products designed to enhance health. Read more...

Blood Pressure Lowered by Just Small Amounts of Dark Chocolate

Small enough to avoid weight gain - good news for millions of senior citizens

Percent of senior citizens with high blood pressure - 2003-04 - Centers for Disease Control Green = Men Gold = Women

July 5, 2007 – High blood pressure, or hypertension, is the leading chronic disease for senior citizens, affecting over half of all those age 65 or older. It presents on on-going battle for those afflicted, but here is news to make their life a little sweeter – eating about 30 calories of dark chocolate daily will lower their blood pressure, without adding inches to their waistline. Read more...

Omega-3 Protects Eyes from Retinopathy as in Major Causes of Blindness in Senior Citizens

Diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration may be helped

June 25, 2007 - Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, found in certain fish and  supplements, protect against the development and progression of retinopathy in mice - a deterioration of the retina. Retinopathy is a general term referring to some form of non-inflammatory damage to the retina of the eye and includes the major sources of blindness in senior citizens – age-related macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy, although the disease tested in this study was most closely associated with retinopathy of prematurity. Read more...

All Omega Fats Not Created Equal, One is Detrimental to Health, Says New Book

Ultimate Omega-3 Diet warns of difference between omega-3 and omega-6

June 20, 2007 – Report after report tells Americans how they can improve their health by consuming more omega-3 fatty acids, most often found in certain fish. But, a new book warns, not all omega fats are healthy and too many people are loading up on omega-6 fats that contribute to the problems senior citizens fear most - Alzheimer’s disease, asthma, heart attacks, strokes, arthritis, vision disorders, learning disorders, PMS, cancer, mood disorders, stress, and insulin resistance. Read more...

Is the Government Increasing Your Risk for Colon Cancer? Urgent Need for Research

Plea by co-author of JAMA report that folic acid supplements do not prevent colon cancer but may increase risk

June 9, 2007 – In view of new research showing folic acid supplements do not reduce the risk of precancerous tumors in the colon – and may even increase the risk – the government may be contributing to this risk due to its mandate that folic acid be added to foods such as bread, flour and pasta. Research into this possibility should be a high priority, according to Robert Sandler, M.D., a co-author of the study. Read more...

Evidence Mounts that Vitamin D Provides Powerful Cancer Protection

Older women in study reduced risk 60% with vitamin D3 and calcium

June 8, 2007 - Most Americans and others are not taking enough vitamin D, a fact that may put them at significant risk for developing cancer, according to a landmark study conducted by Creighton University School of Medicine. A study of older American women found a 60% reduction in cancer risk in people taking vitamin D3 and calcium. It is the latest in a growing list of studies finding very significant health benefits, in particular for senior citizens, from the "sunshine vitamin." Read more... links to more Vitamin D reports...

Folic Acid Supplements Do Not Appear to Reduce Risk of Colorectal Tumors

Previous studies found folate may help prevent colorectal tumors

June 6, 2007 - New research indicates that folic acid supplementation does not decrease the risk of benign colorectal tumors, but may possibly increase the risk for some type of colorectal tumors, according to a study in the June 6 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association. Previous studies have suggested that folate supplementation may help to prevent colorectal tumors. Read more... link to video

Americans – Even Old Ones – Can Maintain Weight Loss

Study of people up to age 84 finds 60% hold weight loss; Hispanics most likely to regain

June 5, 2007 - Every so often, another study comes out depicting the average American as an incorrigible yo-yo dieter and committed couch potato; however, nearly six in 10 people maintained their weight loss to within 5 percent over a year’s time in a new study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that included people up to age 84. Read more...

Nutrients Must Come from Food, Not Pills to Ward Off Pancreatic Cancer

Vitamins B6, B12 and folate found to work for lean people; multivitamins set off alarm

June 1, 2007 – Researchers trying to find nutrients that may protect men from pancreatic cancer have made an unexpected discovery. They found, at least in lean people, that certain nutrients do provide cancer protection, but only if they come from food, not vitamin supplements. They also found that multivitamins may actually increase the risk of pancreatic cancer. Read more...

Older Women with Hypertension May Reduce Blood Pressure, Cholesterol with Soy Nuts

Reduced bad cholesterol 11%, systolic, diastolic blood pressure 9.9%, 6.8%

May 29, 2007 – Older women with high blood pressure, which includes more than half of all senior citizens, may be able to lower their blood pressure and reduce their cholesterol levels by substituting soy nuts for other protein sources in a healthy diet. Women with hypertension have four times the risk of heart disease compared to those with normal blood pressure and it is estimated that about half of all senior citizens suffer with this problem. Read more...

Drinking Coffee May Offer Senior Men Protection from Gout Arthritis

Something in coffee lowers uric acid levels in blood

May 25, 2007 – Gout, the most common inflammatory arthritis in adult men, follows the development of high uric acid levels in the blood. Researchers now think drinking coffee, but not tea, may help fight the disease because it seems to lower uric acid levels. Read more...

Senior Citizen Health & Medicine

Risk of Progressive Lung Disease (COPD) Cut in Half by Mediterranean Diet

Risk of lung cancer from COPD reduced by high-dose inhaled corticosteroid, finds another study

May 16, 2007 – There is no known cure for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which primarily strikes older people and becomes a chronic disease for many senior citizens, but a large study has found the chances of developing this progressive inflammatory lung disease can by cut in half by eating a Mediterranean diet. Read more..

Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors

Compound in Cocoa Significantly Cuts Risk of Diseases that Kill Senior Citizens

Researcher says epecatechin discovery as important as penicillin

March 12, 2007 – A compound found in cocoa, epecatechin, is believed to have reduced the risk of four of the five most common killer diseases among senior citizens to less than 10 percent among the Kuna people of Panama. The health benefits are so striking that the Harvard medical professor who has studied the effect for years says this could rival penicillin and anesthesia in importance to public health. Read more...

Omega-3s Boost the Brain's Grey Matter to Improve Mood

Eating fatty fish protects senior citizens' hearts, may make them happier

March 7, 2007 – Consuming fish with omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and tuna, may not only protect senior citizens from heart disease, it may make them happier. A previous study found people with higher blood levels of omega-3s were more agreeable and less likely to be depressed. The latest study finds omega-3 increases the grey matter in the brain that is associated with mood and behavior. Read more...

Garlic Does Not Lower Bad Cholesterol but Still May be Good for Heart

Study confirms findings of others that found only slight change

Feb.26, 2007 – A new study confirms what several others have indicated – eating garlic will not make a significant reduction in low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the bad cholesterol. The results do not demonstrate, however, that the popular dietary supplement is not usefulness in the prevention of cardiovascular disease, according to an editorial published with the study in today's issue of Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. Read more...

Senior Citizens Drinking Lots of Caffeine Lower Risk of Heart Disease Death

No significant protective effect in patients below the age of 65

Feb. 23, 2007 – It's news about health that most senior citizens like to hear – it's more good news about coffee. The regular drinking of caffeinated beverages by senior citizens – persons age 65 and older – appears to protect them from heart disease and death, says a new study. Read more...

Vitamin D May Prevent Half of Breast Cancers, Two-Thirds of Colorectal Cancer

Daily intake of 2,000 IU of vitamin D3 best achieved with diet, supplements and sunlight

Feb. 6, 2007 – A new prescriptions for possibly preventing up to half of the cases of breast cancer and two-thirds of the cases of colorectal cancer in the United States – vitamin D - has been found in two studies. The studies using a sophisticated form of analysis called meta-analysis, in which data from multiple reports is combined, was conducted by a core team of cancer prevention specialists at the Moores Cancer Center at University of California, San Diego (UCSD), and colleagues from both coasts. (Data on vitamin D below news report.) Read more...

Senior Citizen Health & Medicine

Senior Citizens Find Surprisingly ‘Good News’ in 30 Years of Coffee Research

'Many negative health myths about coffee drinking may now be transformed into validated health benefits'

January 22, 2007 – Senior citizens, many who said in a survey that they had rather give up sex than coffee, can find new support for their cherished drink in a report saying that 30 years of research indicates moderate drinking of this beverage is shown to have generally positive and even protective effects against a host of ills, including diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, kidney stones, depression, cancer and more. Read more...