Selenium is incorporated into a number of selenium-containing proteins that are important for, among other things, the nervous system. They also function as antioxidants that protect cells against damage caused by oxidative stress. A Spanish population study published in Frontiers in Nutrition shows that selenium intake and blood selenium levels may be associated with the intellectual and cognitive performance of university students.

Elevated blood levels of uric acid (hyperuricemia) is a common metabolic disorder that can lead to the formation of crystals in the joints and gout. Elevated uric acid also increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, and it appears that patients who are deficient in vitamin D have an even greater risk of developing cardiovascular disease, including atherosclerosis and narrowing of the coronary arteries, according to a large Chinese population study published in PLOS ONE.

Type 2 diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and other metabolic disturbances. As a result, the risk of overweight, fatigue, cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, erectile dysfunction, and other symptoms increases. Diet and lifestyle play an important role, and it now appears that zinc supplementation is associated with improvements in insulin sensitivity, blood sugar levels, and markers of oxidative stress in individuals with diabetes. This is shown by a meta-analysis published in Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism.

We need iodine for metabolism, the nervous system, cognitive function, and the immune system. In addition, iodine is essential for a child’s growth and development. However, although table salt and bakery bread are fortified with iodine in Denmark and many other countries, iodine deficiency remains a widespread health problem and is becoming more common as the number of vegetarians and vegans increases. Iodine deficiency increases the risk of goiter, an underactive thyroid, reduced resistance to infection, impaired fertility, and breast cancer. Pregnant women who are deficient in iodine are at risk of fetal abnormalities, while children who are deficient in iodine are at risk of intellectual disability or stunted growth. On the other hand, we must also avoid getting too much iodine, as excessive intake can cause health problems as well, according to a new review article published in Nutrients.

Most of the body’s cells and tissues have receptors for vitamin D, including those in the brain and nervous system. A study from Emory University in the United States suggests that older adults who take a high daily dose of vitamin D perform 13 percent better on cognitive tests compared with older adults who do not take a high daily supplement. The researchers therefore assume that high-dose vitamin D supplementation may help reduce early stages of cognitive decline, early signs of dementia, and sleep problems.

Type 2 diabetes is often complicated by diabetic neuropathy, an insidious condition associated with poor circulation, increased morbidity, and, in the worst cases, amputation. Diet and lifestyle play an important role in the development of the disease, which is caused by disturbances in the metabolism of blood sugar and fats. New research now suggests that supplementation with organic selenium yeast can significantly improve insulin sensitivity, blood sugar control, and quality of life in patients with diabetic neuropathy. This is shown in a placebo-controlled study published in the European Journal of Nutrition.

It is well known that excess abdominal fat increases the risk of chronic inflammation, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure. The combination of excess abdominal fat and vitamin D deficiency appears to further increase the risk of chronic disease and premature death in people over the age of 50, as shown by a study published in Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism. Here, the researchers describe how vitamin D protects against premature death. It may therefore be beneficial for your health to check whether your waist circumference is within an appropriate range and whether your blood vitamin D level is optimal throughout the year.

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections are very common. HSV-1 typically causes cold sores on the lips, whereas HSV-2 typically causes painful blisters and sores on the genitals, buttocks, or thighs. HSV is transmitted through direct contact, and after the initial outbreak, the virus remains dormant in nerve cells for the rest of a person's life. However, many people experience recurring outbreaks. In severe cases, serious complications can also occur. A population-based study published in BMC Infectious Diseases suggests, however, that moderate zinc intake may have a protective effect.