Research Roundup: December 2020
Multivitamin May Lessen Illness Symptoms
A daily multivitamin and mineral supplement may lessen illness duration and severity of symptoms in older people. During the 12-week study, 42 healthy adults aged 55 to 75 took a multivitamin and mineral supplement or a placebo. Those who took the supplement showed improved vitamin C and zinc in the blood and reported fewer illness symptoms that went away faster and lasted less time, averaging fewer than three days, versus the placebo group, with more than six days of illness. Risk of nutrient deficiencies that contribute to age-related immune system issues increases with age. (Nutrients, August 2020)
Low-Carb Diet Benefits Weight, Disease Risk
Weight loss due to a very low-carb, higher fat diet by older adults with obesity may improve metabolic health. The study divided 34 obese men and women, aged 60-75 years, into a very low-carbohydrate diet or a low-fat diet for eight weeks. The low-carb group lost more weight and total fat mass than the low-fat group, specifically in the abdominal cavity and skeletal muscle, which may positively impact risk of cardiovascular disease and improve insulin sensitivity to reduce risk of type 2 diabetes. (Nutrition & Metabolism, August 2020)
Not All Saturated Fat Foods Unhealthy
Intake of certain saturated fatty acid- (SFA) rich foods, including whole-fat dairy, unprocessed meat, and dark chocolate, is not associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The U.S. Dietary Guidelines recommend restricting SFAs to reduce CVD, however many recent studies found no benefit on CVD by reducing SFAs. Researchers note that the health effects of foods can’t be predicted by their content of any nutrient group without looking its overall composition.
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