A new review of existing studies shows that greater consumption of grapes and berries could help protect against age-related cognitive decline. The researchers from Tufts University in Boston reviewed the results of studies conducted by their laboratory as well as other research that included human trials. The authors noted that there is plenty of evidence that the polyphenols found in fruits and vegetables have significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, and that additional mechanisms also contribute to the reduction in age-related motor (movement) and cognitive deficits observed in association with grape, blueberry and strawberry supplementation.

A supplement containing Lutein, Zeaxanthin and Blackcurrant Extract may reverse signs of visual fatigue, according to a new study from Japan. Visual fatigue, caused by many factors including staring at computer monitors for long hours, is eased by a daily supplement containing Blackcurrant Fruit Extract (200 mg), Lutein (5 mg), and Zeaxanthin (1 mg), according to a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over trial. The findings add to the ever growing body of science supporting the eye health benefits of Lutein, Zeaxanthin, and berries.

Red Yeast Rice was supplemented to elderly Chinese individuals who had survived a heart attack and presently were being treated for high blood pressure. In this placebo-controlled, randomized trial 1530 elderly (over the age of 65) with a history of heart attack were supplemented with either placebo or Red Yeast Rice daily for 4.5 years on average. Red Yeast Rice significantly reduced the risk of dying from heart related events by 29.2% compared to placebo.

Researchers at INSERM in conjunction with other research institutions tested the effects of Cinnulin PF (dried aqueous extract of cinnamon type A polymers) on the antioxidant status of subjects with impaired fasting glucose that are also overweight or obese; these individuals are typically inflamed with a poor antioxidant status. Twenty-two subjects, with impaired fasting blood glucose with BMI ranging from 25 to 45, were enrolled in this double-blind placebo-controlled trial. Subjects were given capsules containing either a placebo or 250 mg of Cinnulin PF two times per day for 12 weeks.

Researchers at the Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cordoba in Spain evaluated the risk of developing Parkinsons disease (PD) and any protective associated with tea consumption. They reviewed all observational studies that evaluated the association between PD risk and tea consumption. 12 studies were identified: 11 case-controlled studies and 1 cohort.