2 minute read
NEWS FLASH
Resveratrol, a beneficial substance in red wine, grapes, and other plants, can enhance brain health in postmenopausal women, according to an Australian study published in the journal Nutrients. To test resveratrol supplements, researchers gave either a placebo or 75 mg of trans-resveratrol (the concentrated form found in many supplements) to a group of 129 postmenopausal women between the ages of 45 and 85. When taken daily for 14 weeks, the supplement improved blood flow in the brain and enhanced mental function. Researchers concluded that regular use of resveratrol has “the potential to slow cognitive decline due to aging and menopause.”
RESVERATROL ENHANCES BRAIN HEALTH
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SUNSCREEN GENE INFLUENCES VITAMIN D
Australian researchers have discovered a new way in which genes affect our production of vitamin D from sun exposure. Our skin contains molecules that act like internal SPF and soak up UVB rays that trigger vitamin D production. One of our genes—histidine ammonia-lyase (HAL)—varies the concentration of these SPF-like molecules, and this affects how efficiently each of us produces vitamin D when we get some rays.
It’s well known that people with darker skin produce less vitamin D from sun exposure, but this is through a different mechanism. Darker skin contains more melanin, which blocks UVB rays and vitamin D production in a different way than the newly discovered SPF molecules.
THYMOL: Plant-Based Disinfectant
If you want to effectively disinfect surfaces with a plant ingredient, thymol is one that meets the EPA criteria for use against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 disease. Thymol is a specific, concentrated extract from thyme—not the same as an essential oil. For home use, thymol can be found in CleanWell Botanical Disinfecting Wipes and Sprays. These CleanWell products are on the EPA’s List N: Disinfectants for Use Against SARS-CoV-2. You can view the complete EPA list of products at epa.gov.
New Clue to ASTHMA RELIEF
A study at Germany’s University of Bonn has found that a keto diet reduces asthma symptoms in mice. Researchers found that a keto diet helped reduce bronchial inflammation by changing the way fats are metabolized and lowering glucose levels. The next step is to test the diet in a human trial.
