Melatonin is released at night from the pineal gland to regulate sleep. Interestingly the enterochromaffin cells of the digestive tract secrete 400 times as much melatonin as the pineal gland; therefore, it is not surprising that this hormone plays an important role in GI functioning according to research. In animal studies, it protects against GI ulcerations, and randomized clinical trials suggest its efficacy in treating functional dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome.

Researchers have found that the carotenoids Lutein and Zeaxanthin, in this instance extracted from the blue-green algaeChlorella, can possibly contribute to reducing the growth of colon cancer. The carotenoids blocked the growth of human colon cancer cells in a test tube the scientists found. Lutein and Zeaxanthin are well known for eye health and benefit for macular degeneration.

Antioxidants like vitamin C can make the difference between life and death in critically injured patients, according to a new study from Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville. The study showed that antioxidants can heavily influence whether patients suffer potentially lethal multiple organ failure after surgery for traumatic injuries. In spite of modern surgical techniques and the use of the latest antibiotics, many trauma victims who survive their injury frequently die of multiple-organ failure following surgery.

Scientists looking for ways to help treat fatty livers have discovered that an ingredient in red wine known as Resveratrol can help protect from -- and possibly even be used to treat fat buildup in the liver that goes hand-in-hand with chronic alcohol use. Most Americans have likely heard about the antioxidant found in red wine, grapes, berries, and peanuts. Resveratrol has previously been linked to health benefits for cancer and heart disease, and extending the length of a healthy life.

A recent study from Europe found that having reduced plasma antioxidant levels and increased exposure to the blue spectrum of sunlight puts one at a greater risk of neovascular, or advanced age-related macular degeneration.      The study included 4,400 participants in the European Eye Study. Subjects underwent fundus (the back of the eye; the retina, vessels and the optic disc) photography to evaluate the presence of macular degeneration, and blood plasma was analyzed for vitamins C and E, the carotenoids Lutein and Zeaxanthin, and the mineral zinc.