One of the most common items in your medicine cabinet may be a strong weapon against cancer. Evidence suggests taking a low-dose aspirin (81 milligrams) daily may protect you from developing many types of cancer, including those hardest to treat successfully. Aspirin reduces the risk of cancer by fighting inflammation which is thought to be an important part of the immune system’s healthy response to sickness, injury or disease.
Vitamin D promises to be one of the most talked-about and written-about supplements of the decade. While studies continue to refine optimal blood levels and recommended dietary amounts, the fact remains that a huge part of the population are deficient in this essential nutrient. If the findings of existing clinical trials hold up, the potential consequences of this deficiency are likely to go far beyond inadequate bone development and excessive bone loss that can result in falls and fractures. Every tissue in the body, including the brain, heart, muscles and immune system, has receptors for vitamin D, meaning that this nutrient is needed at proper levels for these tissues to function well. Find out more about how Vitamin D works on our “Ask a Pharmacist” podcast.
Fish oil can be obtained from eating fish or by taking supplements. Fish oil is used for a wide range of conditions. It is most often used for conditions related to the heart and blood system. Some people use fish oil to lower blood pressure or triglyceride levels (fats related to cholesterol). Fish oil has also been tried for preventing heart disease or stroke.
Chocolate has always been a popular gift on Valentine’s Day. In fact, over 36 million boxes of chocolate are sold during the Valentine season. For many years, we were told that chocolate was bad for us. But science is beginning to discover that certain types of chocolate, in particular dark chocolate, actually have many health benefits.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a substance similar to a vitamin. It is found in every cell of the body. Your body makes CoQ10, and your cells use it to produce energy your body needs for cell growth and maintenance. Recent studies have shown that CoQ10 is a useful adjunct to therapy for congestive heart failure and other cardiovascular conditions.