Many skin disorders, such as acne, atopic dermatitis (eczema), and psoriasis, are linked to flaws in the skin’s natural barrier and an immune system that is either too weak or overreacts with chronic inflammation. The skin’s natural microflora may also be out of balance. In this context, various vitamins play important roles in supporting skin health due to their regenerative, immune-stimulating, anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, and antioxidant properties that help protect the skin against damage. In a new review article published in The Microbe, the authors explore how different vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, B12, C, D, and E) contribute to skin health, immune function, and the management of skin conditions.

The ageing process is often associated with hearing loss, and many people develop tinnitus – a condition characterised by unpleasant sounds of varying types and intensities. However, evidence suggests that patients suffering from age-related tinnitus may experience relief and improved sleep quality by taking Q10 supplements. This is supported by a randomised placebo-controlled trial (RCT) published in the Iranian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology. In the study, the authors also highlight the role of Q10 in cellular energy metabolism and its function as an important antioxidant that protects cells from damage. The natural production of Q10 declines with age and is further reduced by the use of cholesterol-lowering statins, which is problematic since a Q10 deficiency may also increase the risk of other age-related degenerative diseases.

People who are overweight often struggle with unstable blood sugar levels and metabolic syndrome - a precursor to type 2 diabetes. Diet plays a key role, and according to an article in Nutrition Reviews, magnesium deficiency also appears to be associated with metabolic syndrome. Magnesium is primarily found in whole and green foods, and it is one of the minerals we need the most. This is partly because magnesium is involved in a wide range of enzymatic processes essential for energy metabolism, blood sugar regulation, fat balance, and weight management.

As the elderly population grows, so does the number of people affected by infections, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, dementia, arthritis, cancer, and other degenerative conditions. These diseases appear to be characterized by a dysregulated immune system and chronic inflammation, which can damage and destroy cells via free radicals. If left unaddressed, this dysregulation also increases the risk of reduced quality of life and premature death. According to a review article published in Immunity & Ageing, many older adults are deficient in zinc, which is an essential nutrient for proper immune function and a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells. But why is zinc deficiency so widespread, and how can we ensure adequate intake?

Omega-3 fatty acids, which we primarily get from oily fish, play a crucial role in brain function and numerous metabolic processes. However, deficiencies have become a global issue, while many people simultaneously consume excessive amounts of omega-6 fatty acids from vegetable oils and industrially processed foods. A review article in AJPM Focus reveals that this imbalance increases the risk of a wide range of diseases linked to chronic inflammation - including cardiovascular disease, cancer, arthritis, PMS, fatty liver, depression, other neurological disorders, and premature birth. The researchers emphasize the need to restore the historical balance by reducing omega-6 intake and increasing omega-3 consumption. This could help prevent and treat many serious conditions more effectively.

Summer sunlight is vital and is the primary source of vitamin D, which plays a crucial role in bone health, immune function, brain activity, mood, circulation, cancer prevention, kidney function, blood sugar regulation, muscle strength, pregnancy, and fetal development. However, to achieve the optimal effect, the level of vitamin D in the blood must be higher than the officially recommended minimum values. This is the conclusion of a review article published in Nutrients, where researchers also discuss how much vitamin D is needed to optimize blood levels of the nutrient.

Although the development of Alzheimer’s disease is complex, evidence suggests that vitamin deficiencies play a significant and often overlooked role. This is especially true for vitamin C, which supports neuronal health in multiple ways. Deficiencies in vitamin D, certain B vitamins, vitamin A, and vitamin E also play important roles through various mechanisms. A large meta-analysis comparing vitamin levels in Alzheimer’s patients and healthy individuals found that those with Alzheimer’s had significantly lower levels in the blood.

Overweight and obesity are a growing global problem that affect both quality of life and health. A substantial number of people struggle with unstable blood sugar and insulin resistance, which makes it difficult to reach satiety and leads to snacking between meals. Insulin resistance is also part of metabolic syndrome, which is considered a precursor to type 2 diabetes. According to a new meta-analysis published in the Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology, chromium supplementation appears to have a positive effect on blood sugar regulation and other parameters, including BMI (weight), waist circumference, blood pressure, triglycerides, and liver function. If you want stable blood sugar and weight loss, it's also important to ensure a sufficient protein intake with each meal, to focus on healthy fats, and to reduce carbohydrate intake.

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of illness and premature death worldwide. Major risk factors include smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, and dyslipidemia, which is an imbalance in blood lipids. However, according to a new meta-analysis published in Nutrition Journal, magnesium supplementation may help improve the lipid balance, particularly by significantly increasing HDL cholesterol, thereby improving the ratio between LDL and HDL.