Cabbage family vegetables (Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts) provide ingredients that stimulate detoxification in our body improving the ability of our liver to neutralize and remove dangerous chemicals, drugs, and substrates. A cooperative effort by scientists from Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, and researchers in Shanghai compared the intake of cabbage family vegetables and their ability to reduce the number of women who develop breast cancer specifically in women who have a gene impairment. This impairment leaves them with faulty glutathione detoxification related to a specific major and protective detoxification enzyme known as GSTP1.

A morning-time dose of bright light coupled with an evening dose of melatonin may help normalize the sleep-wake cycle in elderly adults with Alzheimer's disease, according to a new study. People with Alzheimer's commonly have disrupted sleep at night and nap frequently during the day, which can keep them from activities and social interactions that could alleviate some of the effects of the disease. The neurological damage inflicted by Alzheimer's disease likely contributes to the problem.

A report published in the March, 2008 issue of Mayo Clinic Proceedings summarizes the latest findings on omega-3 fatty acids and cardiovascular health, and suggests who will benefit most from their intake. James O’Keefe, MD, of the Mid America Heart Institute in Kansas City, Missouri and colleagues discussed the benefits of the omega-3 fatty acids known as EPA and DHA, the beneficial fats found in oily fish, fish oil, and algae. “The most compelling evidence for the cardiovascular benefit provided by omega-3 fatty acids comes from three large controlled trials of 32,000 participants randomized to receive omega-3 fatty acid supplements containing DHA and EPA,” Dr O’Keefe stated.

Age related macular degeneration (ARMD) is the leading cause of vision loss and blindness in Americans over the age of 55. In this new investigation researchers from the University of Sydney and the University of Newcastle both in Australia crunched the data on 2454 participants who had signed up at the start of the Blue Mountain Eye Study reexamining them 5 and/or 10 years later. The scientists found that those with the highest intake of Lutein and Zeaxanthin had a 65% reduced risk of developing the most severe and advanced form of ARMD; the sight robbing neovascular or wet form.

An increased intake of blueberries may prevent the weakening of bones that occurs after menopause, suggests a new study with lab animals. Researchers from Florida State University and Oklahoma State University looked at the effects of blueberries on bone loss in rats that had had their ovaries removed (ovariectomised). This animal model is designed to represent menopausal osteoporosis, or the bone-wasting condition that affects the elderly, as it combines both hormone deficiency with chronic inflammation.