2002
January
Vitamin A link to hip fractures. Vitamin A may interfere with absorption of calcium. Too much vitamin A in the diet may increase the risk of hip fractures in older women, according to research. Women eating at least 3,000 micrograms of vitamin A each day were at 48% higher risk of suffering a hip fracture than those who consumed less than 1,250 micrograms of the vitamin daily, the survey found. The adverse effects appear to be caused only by too much retinol – the true form of vitamin A, found in such products as liver, fish oils and supplements. © BBC
February
Fibre diet 'aids mental health'. Breakfast cereals can boost cognitive response. A dietary study has claimed that people who enjoy a high fibre diet are happier, more energetic and think more quickly. The study by Professor Andrew Smith at Cardiff University revealed that a diet which includes wholemeal cereals has a marked effect on mental health. © BBC
Fish 'reduces premature birth risk'. Mackerel contains healthy fish oils. Eating fish in pregnancy reduces the risk of having a premature birth, scientists have found. Every year over 13 million babies are born prematurely across the world – many in developing countries. The majority die shortly after birth and the survivors are at significant risk of childhood disabilities such as cerebral palsy, blindness and deafness and intellectual impairment. © BBC
Vitamins could help beat cataracts. Cataracts can be corrected by surgery. Eating properly could help preserve your sight, according to a new study linking vitamin C deficiency to cataracts. Researchers writing in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition looked at nearly 500 women aged between 53 and 73. Cataracts are common among over 65s and form when cells in the lens of the eye become cloudy. The study suggested long-term vitamin C intake lowered the risk of cataracts, but was inconclusive. © BBC