Despite the world finding itself in increasingly uncertain times, especially as far as world health is concerned, scientists and nutritionists continue to explore the relationship between the nutrients we consume and our bodies. This week’s Nutrition News covers a range of nutritional research articles from the benefits of krill oil on endurance athlete performance to supporting lung health.
Read the full article here.
How krill oil can support muscle function
A recent study has found that krill oil could have an important role in supporting the muscle function of athletes. The study, covered by NutraIngredients, looked at triathletes taking krill oil compared to a placebo group. It found that the krill oil significantly increased choline levels in the triathletes using the supplement compared to those taking the placebo.
In the group participating in the extreme triathlon, researchers noticed a 34% decrease in serum choline concentrations. A lack of choline can affect muscle performance in long distance endurance athletes, as less of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine can be synthesised, and this can eventually lead to muscle damage. What this study uncovered is the possible role that readily available dietary supplements and foods can have on athlete performance.
While this study only looked at krill oil’s effects in triathletes, its application could be widespread, however, more research is needed before any conclusive findings can be reached.
The gut health benefits of curcumin
We’ve covered studies touting the importance of gut health in many Nutrition News articles previously and, now, an article has been published that explores curcumin’s role in supporting a healthy gut.
The article, by Natural Products Insider, reaffirms the importance of good gut health due to the research that links it with many elements of human health, and also suggests that curcumin and turmeric, which is the primary source of curcumin, could have a hugely positive role in influencing gut health. Looking at research from several preclinical and clinical studies, the article highlighted the role the supplement can have in reducing inflammation and the mucosal immune response.
Research into gut health and curcumin is ongoing and the article emphasises that this is just the start of scientific studies that explore the link between the two.
The best foods for lung health
Especially as we approach flu season, where respiratory illnesses are at their peak, lung health is incredibly important. This article by Healthline looks at several foods that support good lung function, which we could be adding to our diet to maintain good health.
These foods include:
- Beetroot and beetroot greens
Some studies show that beetroot and its green shoots can benefit lung function as they are rich in nitrates. They are also rich in magnesium, potassium and carotenoid antioxidants.
- Peppers
Peppers are a very rich source of vitamin C, which studies show could have a great benefit to lung health in those with impaired lung function such as smokers.
- Turmeric
In addition to its potential influence on gut health, turmeric could have a positive effect on lung health due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Green tea
Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is a catechin concentrated in green tea, which also has anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit lung health.
- Yoghurt
Yoghurt may be soothing on the throat when you have a cold or chest infection but its nutrient profile also boasts huge benefits to lung health. Rich in calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and selenium, which studies suggest could promote good lung function.
See the full article for a number of other foods that can support lung health.
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Alison is Director and Founder of Metabolics who writes about Metabolics updates, events and natural healthcare. Her experience and passion for natural supplements and healthcare comes from her years of experience as a practising osteopath, having founded Metabolics in her search for high quality, natural products in her own work. Alison has been a qualified and practising Osteopath since 1981 and regularly gives seminars on a range of healthcare subjects to the wider practitioner community helping share her knowledge and experience.