A recent clinical study of a mangosteen dietary supplement with vitamins and minerals was found to show positive benefits to human immune function. A randomized double blind placebo-controlled trial was conducted with 59 healthy human volunteers over the course of 30 days. At the conclusion of the trial, the data indicated a statistically significant change in immune function markers from the baseline in the study group versus the placebo group. The changes were positive and pointed to enhance immune function. Subjects from the study group also self reported a greater sense of improved health. Further studies evaluating the effects of the mangosteen product on different population groups with emphasis on long term outcomes is warranted. Click here for more information

Energy Drinks and the Globalization of Guarana

The guarana plant has been utilized for centuries for general health and medicinal purposes by the Satere'-Maue, an Indigenous Tribe of the Brazilian Amazon. It was often used prior to hunting for strength or to treat fevers and headaches. The guarana was of such great importance to the Satere'-Maue that they wove it into their myths. Click here for more information.

Green Tea and Breast Cancer

In a recent scientific research study, presented at the Experimental Biology 2008 conference, the green tea antioxidant EGCG (epigallocatechin-3-gallate) significantly slowed breast cancer growth in female mice. Earlier studies have suggested that this antioxidant may protect against breast cancer and other cancers, but the amount of research has been small, and the mechanics behind the physiological effects has not been understood. Researchers now have mounting evidence to help confirm that green tea's anticancer effects may be, in large part, because of its high content of EGCG. In this study, EGCG appears to protect the body's cells from becoming dam-aged and aging prematurely. Additional research would help to further understand the value of EGCG and its role in breast cancer. Click here for more information.

Diet Helps Reduce Cardiac Disease in Women

At the conclusion of a recently published research article, scientists stated that a diet resembling The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet was significantly associated with lower risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke in women. The DASH eating plan consists of a high intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, moderated intake of legumes, nuts, and low-fat dairy products, and low intake of red and processed meats and sodium. For the details surrounding this study go to the Archives of Internal Medicine, Volume 168, No. 7, April 2008.

Glyconutrients Defined

Glyconutrients are healthy plant nutrients. They are found at the cellular level of edible plants in the form of polysaccharides or plant sugars. Glyconutrients come from a variety of sources but most notably from the succulent and highly nutritious aloe vera plant. Glyconutrients work naturally to help support many necessary functions in the body.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.