Supps for Depression

From eNewsletter 8/20/2025

DID YOU KNOW that a new review study from Frontiers in Pharmacology examined 64 over-the-counter supplements and herbs that are used for depression? The study included adults aged 18-60 years with depression symptoms or a diagnosis.

Of the supplements with most evidence, St John's Wort, saffron, probiotics, vitamin D3, and omega-3's were more likely to reduce depressive symptoms than placebo in that order. Some showed to be just as effective as antidepressants.

Of the supplements with emerging evidence, folic acid, lavender, zinc, 5-hydroxy tryptophan, rhodiola, lemon balm, melatonin, magnesium, and curcumin were the most promising.

While there were very few safety concerns, we never recommend self-supplementing for depression. Always seek assistance from a knowledgable health professional.

To read the rest of today's issue, please go to this page.

Tenet for Preventing Heart Disease

From eNewsletter 8/18/2025

DID YOU KNOW that according to new research, monolaurin's antiviral properties are not its only benefit?

Researchers in a Frontiers in Nutrition study found that glycerol monolaurate (monolaurin) improved the integrity of intestinal tight junction protein expression.

Why is this important?

Intestinal tight junction damage, often referred to as "leaky gut," allows harmful substances to pass through the intestinal walls, triggering immune responses and inflammation, potentially leading to gastrointestinal and autoimmune diseases.

This should not surprise us given that glycerol monolaurate (a coconut ester) mimics the immune properties of human breast milk. It is a powerful immune protector.

To read the rest of today's issue, please go to this page.

COVID and Vitamin D

From eNewsletter 8/13/2025

DID YOU KNOW that while this should not come as a surprise to you, a study from PLoS One found that those with insufficient or deficient vitamin D levels were at much higher risk for COVID-19-related hospitalization?

The study followed over 150,000 subjects. Deficient vitamin D levels were considered 24 nmol/L or less, insufficient levels were 25-50 nmol/L, while normal was 50 nmol/L and above.

This is critical because many labs in the United States consider above 30 nmol/L to be within reference range. We have always said between 50-80 is optimal.

To read the rest of today's issue, please go to this page.