Many people are aware that vitamin B12 status declines during aging, as millions of seniors fall prey to a decline in this critical nutrient. Vitamin B12 circulating in the blood declines in the elderly due to absorption problems in the digestive tract leading to poor uptake by body tissues, especially the brain. Researchers publishing in the journal Neurology have established a definitive link between poor vitamin B12 levels and brain shrinkage, a hallmark of cognitive decline and Alzheimer's dementia. Supplementation with the biologically active form of the B vitamin may help prevent shrinkage and preserve learning capabilities and memory functions as we age.

The study involved 121 participants from the Chicago Health and Aging Project who underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans for over a period of four and a half years. Additionally, each member of the study had blood drawn to measure levels of vitamin B12 and B12-related markers that can indicate a B12 deficiency. The same subjects took tests measuring their memory and other cognitive skills.

Vitamin B12 Deficiencies Linked to Shrinking Brain Volume and Cognitive Decline Among Elderly
MRI scans were analyzed to measure total brain volume and to look for other signs of brain damage. The tests included seven measures of episodic memory, two measures of visual spatial ability and perceptual organization, two measures of perceptual speed, two measures of semantic memory, and three measures of working memory. Stored blood samples were analyzed for vitamin B12 and homocysteine, a byproduct of metabolism associated with dementia, cognitive decline and coronary artery disease.

Researchers determined that having high levels of four of five markers for vitamin B12 deficiency was associated with having lower scores on the cognitive tests and smaller total brain volume. Indicators of vitamin B12 insufficiency contributed to poor global cognitive test scores and a decrease in brain volume revealed by MRI findings compared to those with better B12 status. Higher levels of the vitamin B12 markers were linked to decreased total brain volume. Elevated homocysteine levels were indicative of greater white matter volume and elevated risk of cerebrovascular events.

Lead researcher, Dr. Christine Tangney concluded "Our findings suggest that ... vitamin B12 deficiency, may affect cognition by reducing total brain volume whereas the effect of homocysteine on cognition may be mediated through increased white matter hyperintensity volume and cerebral infarcts." Vitamin B12 deficiency among the elderly is a significant cause for concern and may very well be a key contributor to the explosion of Alzheimer's disease cases over the past 50 years. Nutritionists recommend supplementing with the bioactive form of B12 known as methylcobalamin (1 to 5 mg per day taken sublingually) to regulate circulating levels of this critical brain nutrient.

( Sweet potatoes, also commonly labeled as yams, are an excellent and inexpensive staple to have on hand. These deep orange-fleshed nutritional powerhouses add several important components to the diet. Their health and weight management benefits far exceed the nutritional value found in ordinary white and yellow fleshed potatoes.

Superior fiber content

Sweet potatoes contain almost twice as much fiber as other types of potatoes. Contributing close to 7 grams of fiber per serving, they make an excellent starchy addition to any meal. The high fiber content gives them a "slow burning" quality. This basically means their caloric energy is used more slowly and efficiently than a low-fiber carbohydrate.

Heart-healthy

They contain a large amount of vitamin B6. This vitamin is crucial in breaking down a substance called homocysteine, which contributes to hardening of the arteries and blood vessels. Vitamin B6 helps keep the walls of these important blood passageways flexible and healthy which allows blood to flow freely.

In addition, sweet potatoes contain high amounts of potassium. Potassium plays an important role in lowering blood pressure by ridding the body of excess sodium and regulating fluid balance. It is also an important electrolyte that helps regulate the natural rhythm of the heart, and maintains normal function of the brain and central nervous system.

Rich in beta-carotene

Beta-carotene or vitamin A is an important antioxidant. One medium sweet potato provides your body with the complete recommended daily allowance of vitamin A and then some. Vitamin A is useful in the prevention of several different types of cancer as it is one of the most potent antioxidants out there.

Beta-carotene also helps to internally protect your skin from sun damage by both deflecting and repairing cell damage caused by excessive UV exposure. It also is an excellent nutrient for eye health and has been linked to prevention of vision loss and macular degeneration.

A great source of manganese

Manganese is a little-discussed trace mineral that has some great health benefits. It is a pivotal component in the metabolism of carbohydrates which helps support healthy blood sugar levels. This can help stabilize the appetite for hours as opposed to the temporary satisfaction that comes with most other carbohydrates.

It also is a cofactor in enzymes that play an important role in the generation of energy as well as the efficient utilization of antioxidants. It is used for the treatment of anemia and is useful as a treatment for several premenstrual symptoms in women as well.

Rich in vitamins C and E

As if being one of the top vegetable sources of beta-carotene weren't enough, sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamins C and E. These are potent antioxidant vitamins that play an important role in disease prevention and longevity.

Both vitamins also play a huge role in the health and beauty of your skin and hair, making them popular supplements. The combination of beta-carotene, vitamin E and vitamin C in one food makes the sweet potato one heck of a "beauty food". These nutrients all contribute to a healthy, glowing complexion and vibrant hair.

Beta carotene is a member of the carotenoid family belonging to the isoprenoid compounds, which are polyunsaturates with antioxidant properties. The formula for beta carotene is C40H56 and it can exist as cis- or trans-isomers. Most of the naturally-occurring and synthesized forms of beta exists as the all-trans isomer.
Where is beta carotene found?

Beta carotene is produced by plants and microorganisms, with the main sources being yellow or orange and green-leaved vegetables or fruits such as sweet potato, spinach, carrots, pumpkin, butternut squash and apricots.

Beta carotene is also available as supplements, which may be synthetic or derived from palm oil, algae or fungi. When taken as a vitamin or mineral supplement, the dose ranges form 0.4 mg to 20 mg per day.

When used as a medicine to treat vitamin A deficiency, a dose of up to 6 mg/day may be given and in cases of erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), up to 300 mg/day may be taken. Beta carotene is also widely used as a yellow colouring agent (EC160a) in food and drink.

Although beta carotene is not classed as an essential nutrient, it is a precursor to vitamin A and the recommended daily intake is expressed as part of the reference nutrient intake (RNI) for vitamin A as retinol equivalents (RE).
Beneficial effects of beta carotene

As a provitamin of vitamin A, the importance of beta carotene in an individual depends on their level of pre-formed vitamin A. It is therefore difficult to define a beta- carotene deficiency. Beta carotene also interacts with other carotenoids during absorption and metabolic processes.

Studies have shown an association between high dietary intake of beta carotene and a reduced risk of heart disease and cancer. This may be due to the antioxidant properties of the molecule.
Properties

The absorption of beta carotene is facilitated by dietary fats and bile salts in the small intestine. Around 10% to 90% of the total dietary beta carotene is thought to be absorbed in the gut, with absorption decreasing, the higher the intake is. Low fat diets also reduce the amount of beta carotene absorbed.

Smokers have a low blood level of beta carotene, as do individuals with a high alcohol intake and those with HIV infection. People with impaired fat absorption from diet due to conditions such as jaundice, liver cirrhosis and cystic fibrosis also have a low blood level of beta carotene. Beta carotene is excreted in the feces and sweat.

Getting enough calcium and vitamin D is essential to building strong, dense bones when you're young and to keeping them strong and healthy as you age. The information included here will help you learn all about calcium and vitamin D - the two most important nutrients for bone health.


Calcium is a mineral that is necessary for life. In addition to building bones and keeping them healthy, calcium helps our blood clot, nerves send messages and muscles contract . About 99 percent of the calcium in our bodies is in our bones and teeth. Each day, we lose calcium through our skin, nails, hair, sweat, urine and feces, but our bodies cannot produce new calcium.

That’s why it’s important to try to get calcium from the food we eat. When we don’t get enough calcium for our body’s needs, it is taken from our bones.

    Too many Americans fall short of getting the amount of calcium they need every day and that can lead to bone loss, low bone density and even broken bones.

How Much Calcium Do You Need?

The amount of calcium you need every day depends on your age and sex.

Women

Age 50 & younger
    

1,000 mg* daily

Age 51 & older
    

1,200 mg* daily

Men

Age 70 & younger
    

1,000 mg* daily

Age 71 & older
    

1,200 mg* daily

*This includes the total amount of calcium you get from food and supplements.


    How Much Calcium Do You Need?

    Use the International Osteoporosis Foundation's Calcium Calculator to find out.

Sources of Calcium
Calcium-Rich Food Sources

Food is the best source of calcium. Dairy products, such as low-fat and non-fat milk, yogurt and cheese are high in calcium. Certain green vegetables and other foods contain calcium in smaller amounts. Some juices, breakfast foods, soymilk, cereals, snacks, breads and bottled water have calcium that has been added. If you drink soymilk or another liquid that is fortified with calcium, be sure to shake the container well as calcium can settle to the bottom.

    A simple way to add calcium to many foods is to add a single tablespoon of nonfat powdered milk, which contains about 50 mg of calcium. About two-to-four tablespoons can be added to most recipes.

Reading Food Labels - How Much Calcium am I Getting?

To determine how much calcium is in a particular food, check the nutrition facts panel of the food label for the daily value (DV) of calcium. Food labels list calcium as a percentage of the DV. This amount is based on 1,000 mg of calcium per day. For example:

    30% DV of calcium equals 300 mg.
    20% DV of calcium equals 200 mg of calcium.
    15% DV of calcium equals 150 mg of calcium.

Calcium Supplements

The amount of calcium you need from a supplement depends on the amount of calcium you get from food. Aim to get the recommended daily amount of calcium you need from food first and supplement only if needed to make up for any shortfall. If you get enough calcium from the foods you eat, then you don’t need to take a supplement. In fact, there is no added benefit to taking more calcium than you need in supplements and doing so may even have some risks.  

In general, you shouldn’t take supplements that you don’t need. Calcium supplements are available without a prescription in a wide range of preparations (including chewable and liquid) and in different amounts. The best supplement is the one that meets your needs based on convenience, cost and availability. When choosing the best supplement to meet your needs, keep the following in mind:

    Choose brand-name supplements with proven reliability. Look for labels that state “purified” or have the USP (United States Pharmacopeia) symbol. The “USP Verified Mark” on the supplement label means that the USP has tested and found the calcium supplement to meet certain standards for purity and quality.
    Read the product label carefully to determine the amount of elemental calcium, which is the actual amount of calcium in the supplement, as well as how many doses or pills to take. When reading the label, pay close attention to the “amount per serving” and “serving size.”
    Calcium is absorbed best when taken in amounts of 500 – 600 mg or less. This is the case when you eat calcium rich foods or take supplements. Try to get your calcium-rich foods and/or supplements in smaller amounts throughout the day, preferably with a meal. While it's not recommended, taking your calcium all at once is better than not taking it at all.
    Take most calcium supplements with food. Eating food produces stomach acid that helps your body absorb most calcium supplements. The one exception to the rule is calcium citrate, which can absorb well when taken with or without food.
    When starting a new calcium supplement, start with a smaller amount to better tolerate it. When switching supplements, try starting with 200-300 mg every day for a week, and drink an extra 6-8 ounces of water with it. Then gradually add more calcium each week.
    Side effects from calcium supplements, such as gas or constipation may occur. If increasing fluids in your diet does not solve the problem, try another type or brand of calcium. It may require trial and error to find the right supplement for you, but fortunately there are many choices.
    Talk with your healthcare provider or pharmacist about possible interactions between prescription or over-the-counter medications and calcium supplements.

What is Vitamin D and What Does it Do?

Vitamin D plays an important role in protecting your bones and your body requires it to absorb calcium. Children need vitamin D to build strong bones, and adults need it to keep their bones strong and healthy. If you don't get enough vitamin D, you may lose bone, have lower bone density, and you're more likely to break bones as you age.
How Much Vitamin D Do You Need?

Women and Men

Under age 50
    400-800 international units (IU) daily**

Age 50 and older
    800-1,000 IU daily**

 **Some people need more vitamin D. According to the Institute of Medicine (IOM), the safe upper limit of vitamin D is 4,000 IU per day for most adults.
Sources of Vitamin D

There are three ways to get vitamin D:

    Sunlight
    Food
    Supplements

Sunlight

Your skin makes vitamin D from the ultra-violet light (UVB rays) in sunlight. Your body is able to store the vitamin and use it later. The amount of vitamin D your skin makes depends on time of day, season, latitude, skin pigmentation and other factors. Depending on where you live, vitamin D production may decrease or be completely absent during the winter.

Because of concerns about skin cancer, many people stay out of the sun, cover up with clothing and use either sunscreen or sunblock to protect their skin. The use of sunscreen or sunblock is probably the most important factor that limits the ability of the skin to make vitamin D. Even an SPF (sun protection factor) of 8 reduces the production of vitamin D by 95 percent. Because of the cancer risk from the sun, most people need to get vitamin D from other sources, including eating foods rich in vitamin D and taking vitamin D supplements.
Food

Vitamin D is naturally available in only a few foods, including fatty fish like wild-caught mackerel, salmon and tuna. Vitamin D is also added to milk and to some brands of other dairy products, orange juice, soymilk and cereals.

Check the food label to see if vitamin D has been added to a particular product. One eight ounce serving of milk usually has 25% of the daily value (DV) of vitamin D. The DV is based on a total daily intake of 400 IU of vitamin D. So, a serving of milk with 25% of the DV of vitamin D contains 100 IU of the vitamin.

It is very difficult to get all the vitamin D you need from food alone. Most people need to take vitamin D supplements to get enough of the nutrient needed for bone health.
Supplements

If you aren't getting enough vitamin D from sunlight and food, consider taking a supplement. But, before adding a vitamin D supplement, check to see if any of the other supplements, multivitamins or medications you  take contain vitamin D. Many calcium supplements also contain vitamin D.

There are two types of vitamin D supplements. They are vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). Both types are good for bone health.

Vitamin D supplements can be taken with or without food. While your body needs vitamin D to absorb calcium, you do not need to take vitamin D at the same time as a calcium supplement. If you need help choosing a vitamin D supplement, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist to recommend one.

    How Much Vitamin D Should You Supplement?

    To figure out how much vitamin D you need from a supplement, subtract the total amount of vitamin D you get each day from the recommended total daily amount for your age. For example, a 55 year old woman who gets 400 IU of vitamin D from her calcium supplement should take between 400 and 600 additional IU of vitamin D to meet the 800 - 1,000 IU recommended for her age.

Vitamin D Deficiency: Are You at Risk?

Vitamin D deficiency occurs when you are not getting the recommended level of vitamin D over time. Certain people are at higher risk for vitamin D deficiency, including:

    People who spend little time in the sun or those who regularly cover up when outdoors;
    People living in nursing homes or other institutions or who are homebound;
    People with certain medical conditions such as Celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease;
    People taking medicines that affect vitamin D levels such as certain anti-seizure medicines;
    People with very dark skin;
    Obese or very overweight people; and
    Older adults with certain risk factors.

Talk to your healthcare provider if you meet any of these risk factors or  think you might be at risk of vitamin D deficiency. If you have osteoporosis and also have a vitamin D deficiency, your healthcare provider may temporarily prescribe a higher dose of vitamin D.

A new study published in JAMA finds that a combination of folic acid supplementation and hypertension medication may be an effective way to reduce the risk of first stroke among adults with high blood pressure.
Vitamin supplements
In people with high blood pressure, folic acid supplementation alongside a common hypertension medication was found to reduce first-time stroke risk.

Each year, more than 795,000 people in the US have a stroke. Of these, around 610,000 are first-time strokes.

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a known risk factor for stroke. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 8 in 10 first-time strokes are among people with high blood pressure.

Past studies looking at the effects of folic acid supplementation for prevention of cardiovascular disease have indicated that the vitamin may be effective for reducing stroke risk. But the investigators of this latest research - including Dr. Yong Huo of Peking University First Hospital in Beijing, China - say no studies have had stroke as the primary outcome, making it difficult to make a firm connection between the two.

As such, the team set out to assess the link between folic acid supplementation and stroke risk among 20,702 adults from China aged 45-75 years. All adults had hypertension, but they had no history of stroke or heart attack at study baseline.

Variations in the MTHFR C677T genotypes (CC, CT or TT) - which can affect folate levels - were assessed among participants, and their folate levels were measured at study baseline.

Between May 2008 and August 2013, participants were randomized to receive either 10 mg of enalapril - a drug commonly used to treat high blood pressure - and 8 mg of folic acid daily, or a daily 10 mg dose of enalapril alone.

Folic acid is a B vitamin that the body needs for healthy cell production. A lack of folic acid can lead to anemia and other health complications. It is highly recommended that women increase their intake of folic acid prior to and during pregnancy, as studies have suggested it can significantly reduce the risk of major birth defects, such as spina bifida and anencephaly.
Treatment with folic acid and enalapril reduced stroke risk by 21%

During the median 4.5-year follow-up period, 282 (2.7%) participants who were treated with both enalapril and folic acid had a first stroke, compared with 355 (3.4%) participants treated with enalapril.

The team calculated that participants treated with both enalapril and folic acid were at 21% lower risk of stroke, compared with participants treated with enalapril alone. Treatment with enalapril and folic acid also represented a 0.7% reduction in absolute risk of first-time stroke, the researchers found.

A lower relative risk of ischemic stroke was also identified among participants treated with enalapril and folic acid, and these participants were also at lower risk of combinations of cardiovascular events, including heart attack, stroke and cardiovascular death.

The team found that participants with TT genotypes were most likely to benefit from combination treatment with enalapril and folic acid, as were participants who had low folate levels at study baseline.

(NaturalNews) The human immune system is a remarkable network of biological structures and processes. When functioning properly, it has the ability to remember diseases that it has previously encountered for more efficient removal, trigger immediate responses to emergencies through its advanced communication systems and much more.

Despite its sophistication, however, the immune system is notoriously fragile, and even the healthiest of us can suffer from compromised immunity from time to time. During these difficult periods, when we're at a far greater risk of infection than usual, it is a good idea to supplement our diets with herbs that are well-known for their immune-boosting properties. Three of the best of these herbs are listed below.

Astragalus
Astragalus is a perennial plant native to the northern and eastern regions of China, as well as Korea and Mongolia. Its antioxidant-rich root, which resembles a garlic bulb, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to strengthen the body against disease. Moreover, Astragalus's adaptogenic qualities make it effective at fighting disease as well.

Astragalus has been well-studied in the West, and numerous studies confirm its alleged immunity-boosting properties. A study published in Cellular Immunology in 2011, for instance, found that Astragalus polysaccharides could stimulate the body's production of macrophages (white blood cells that tackle foreign invaders and cancer cells).(1) A later study, published in Microbial Pathogenesis in January 2014, also discovered that Astragalus polysaccharides could regulate the production of T cells (white blood cells that defend the body from pathogens) in infected mice.(2)

Echinacea
Echinacea is a flowering plant that grows throughout North America and Europe. It was immensely popular in its native lands as an immunity booster and general "cure-all" during the 18th and 19th centuries, but its use began to decline after the advent of antibiotics. Fortunately, the West -- prompted by growing research into its health benefits -- seems to have rediscovered Echinacea in recent decades.

Studies into Echinacea's immunity-boosting properties are considerable, and new research is being published every month. For example, a study featured in International Immunopharmacology in March 2014 found that Echinacea polysaccharides could regulate T cell cytokine response, thus enhancing the body's defenses against infection.(3) These results were reinforced by another study published one month later in Natural Product Communications, which concluded that Echinacea preparations can bolster immunity by decreasing the "number and function" of regulatory T cells.(4)

Cat's claw
Cat's claw is a woody vine native to the Amazon Rainforest of South America. While the indigenous people of Central and South America have used cat's claw -- which is named after its hook-like thorns -- to treat a wide variety of medical conditions, it is especially revered for its ability to strengthen immune function.

Few studies have been conducted on cat's claw compared to Astragalus and Echinacea, but the limited amount of research we currently possess is promising. A study published in Phytotherapy Research in August 2011, for example, discovered that cat's claw extracts could boost immunity by modulating "distinct patterns of the immune system in a dose-dependent manner." (5) A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food in March 2007 also listed cat's claw as one of three herbs (the others being saw palmetto and Echinacea) that could regulate immune function by activating disease-fighting macrophages.

Estafiate is common throughout the continental United States and Canada and is a member of the same plant family as sunflowers and dandelions (Asteraceae) although it has very small inconspicuous flowers and somewhat fuzzy gray-white leaves and stems. It is also known as sacred sage, South Dakota sage, man sage, silver wormwood and prairie sage (English).

Plants of this genus (Artemisia) are often mistakenly referred to as “sages,” but members of the genus are not actually sage; they just look gray and fuzzy like true sage, which is in the family of Laminaceae and the genus of Salvia. At this point, the name “sage” is so commonly given to many plants in this genus that almost everyone uses it to describe this plant. Native people of the American plains know it as sacred sage, and it is a very important plant used in many ceremonies.

Like most of the Artemisia genus, estafiate is intensely bitter, which makes it an excellent bitter tonic. Bitter herbs stimulate the digestive system by improving appetite, increasing the production of digestive enzymes and bile, and strengthening the muscular response of the intestine called peristalsis. Bitters are used around the world for tummy aches and indigestion; in fact, you will find a bottle of herbal bitters on the tables of many European restaurants.

Like its cousin chamiso (Artemisia tridentata), estafiate is rich in aromatic volatile compounds that increase the secretion of moisture in the lungs to effectively address thick mucus in lung infections. Thick mucus makes coughing difficult and increases the risk of bacterial infections. The volatile oils in estafiate also alleviate menstrual cramping and stimulate a tardy menstrual period. Estafiate contains artemisin and santonin, which irritate and cause small intestinal parasitic worms such as pinworms and other roundworms to be expelled.

Collect estafiate by cutting with a scissors or pinching the plant near the base and leaving a pair of healthy leaves so the plant can continue to support the root system. Bundle them with a rubber band. Allow them to hang and dry in a cool shady place with good airflow. When dry, use 1 teaspoon of the leaves per cup of water and steep for 15 minutes.

For digestion, slowly sip ¼ cup 15 minutes before meals. For a cough, drink three to five cups a day. For menstrual cramps or a tardy period, drink two cups a day.

Consult your health care practitioner about the use of herbs or supplements, especially if you are pregnant, taking prescription medication or administering herbs to children.

در کشور ما افسردگی جزء 7 علت اولیه بروز بیماری‌ و ناتوانی در سنین مختلف بشمار می‌رود.
دکتر زهرا عبداللهی مدیر دفتر بهبود تغذیه سلامت وزارت بهداشت گفت: کمبود برخی مواد مغذی و ویتامین‌ها در رژیم غذایی فرد می‌توانند سبب ایجاد افسردگی شود و یا در مواردی افسردگی فرد را تشدید کند از مهمترین این مواد اسیدهای چرب امگا 3 است که کمبود آن فرد را مستعد افسردگی می‌کند اسیدهای چرب امگا 3 در غذاهای دریایی و روغنی کانولا، روغن سویا و گردو وجود دارد.

از دیگر موادی که کاهش آن در خون میزان ابتلا به افسردگی را بالا می‌برد اسید فولیک است. اسید فولیک در جگر، قارچ، سبزی‌جات سبز مثل اسفناج و کلم بروکلی، گوشت گاو کم چرب، سیب زمینی، نان گندم کامل ، آب پرتغال و لوبیا وجود دارد.

وی در ادامه گفت: کمبود آهن، ویتامین B6 و B12، ویتامین E، ویتامین C، منیزیم، روی، آهن، سلنیوم و برخی مواد دیگر در ابتلا به افسردگی موثر است. بنابراین پیروی از یک رژیم غذایی سالم، متنوع و متعادل، دریافت به اندازه مواد مغذی و داشتن وزن مناسب، در پیشگیری و درمان افسردگی موثر است.

همچنین چاقی افراد به علل مختلف در ابتدا به افسردگی نقش بسزایی دارد و از طرف دیگر افسردگی هم می‌تواند منجر به چاقی شود.

 Eleven years of groundbreaking research and data analysis on hospitalized Medicare patients is to be presented at the 35th annual meeting of the Society for Medical Decision Making in Baltimore, Maryland. The analysis has found positive evidence showing how nutritional supplements effectively lower hospital readmission rates. This is big news for the American medical industry, primarily because Medicare patients are typically given prescription drugs instead of nutritional supplements.

And that prescription drug system must not be working, for in the current Medicare system, one in five patients are readmitted to a hospital in the same year, costing American taxpayers estimates exceeding $17.5 billion.

Affordable Care Act prompting something good?
One provision of the Affordable Care Act imposes fines on hospitals whose patient readmission rates exceed national averages. Fines estimated around $227 million are projected to hit over 2,000 hospitals in the next year. The fine, currently at one percent, is set to double going into 2014, punishing those hospitals that can't get their Medicare readmission rates under control.

This may pressure hospitals administrators to change their Medicare outpatient care completely, as health care professionals look for alternatives to help elderly patients recover.

Instead of welcoming readmissions and collecting Medicare insurance funds, hospitals may actually be pushed to help their patients recover! Entirely new outpatient programs and follow-ups may birth, helping seniors get the nutrition and energy they need to avoid readmission.

The most common medical readmission issues Medicare patients face are acute myocardial infarction and congestive heart failure. With the right nutritional outpatient care, these vascular problems could subside. If powerful nutritional supplements including the likes of chlorella, hawthorne, and flax seed were utilized, many patients wouldn't have to be readmitted.

For example, if follow-up doctor visits encouraged dietary advice and the provision of organic whole food supplements, then patients could heal more efficiently by getting the right enzymes, probiotics, essential fatty acids, minerals and vitamins in their body. This is the best way to cut down on hospital readmission rates - real whole food nutrition.

Nutritional supplements cutting down hospital readmission rates
The new 11-year study provides clear evidence on how nutritional supplements effectively cut hospital readmission rates.

The research, conducted from the University of Southern California and Stanford University, shows how oral nutritional supplements help hospitalized Medicare patients, reducing 30-day hospital readmission rates, lowering patients' length of stay and bringing down taxpayer medical costs.

    The study showed a 10.1 percent reduction in readmission rates for congestive heart failure patients.

    The study relayed a 12 percent reduction in readmission rates for those suffering from acute myocardial infarction.

    Overall, it showed an 8.4 readmission reduction for all patients, regardless of diagnosis!

Imagine the quality of life that elderly patients could regain well into their old age if simple nutrition was utilized in basic supplement form. On top of quality living, time and and cost savings were reported as well.

    There was an observed 16 percent reduction in patients' length of stay.

    This equated to an average savings of 1.65 days per person.

    There was a 15.8 percent cost savings, translating to $3,079 saved in health care expenses per person.

Breaking the norm
The norm has portrayed nutritional supplements as unnecessary and overpriced, but this 11-year study defies that myth. Nutritional supplements can and do save the medical industry thousands of dollars per patient, helping them recuperate faster and reduce their readmission probability. Cost savings are especially important in the Medicare system, because the whole thing is funded by the American taxpayers themselves.

Giving the right nutritional supplement instead of the right prescription drug is the future of health care in the United States. There is a mass awakening that will translate to real health care change.
The norm must be defied, and whole food nutrition must replace the current system of thought.

Peoples' lives and their quality of life hang in the balance.

The health benefits of vitamins include their ability to prevent and treat various diseases including heart problems, high cholesterol levels, eye disorders, and skin disorders. Most vitamins also facilitate many of the body’s mechanisms and perform functions which are not performed by any other nutrients. Click on any of the vitamins below to find out more about its health benefits.

Vitamins can be consumed in a variety of ways. Most common vitamins are acquired through the foods we eat, but depending on your cultural or cuisine traditions, it is possible to be low in some natural vitamin intake. Therefore, the nutrition industry has made supplements available that can boost the vitamin content in your body. A multivitamin is often considered one of the best options for improving the overall balance of your body, particularly if you have a job or a lifestyle that frequently causes you to miss meals, eat at strange times, or eat the same food very often.

Vitamin A or Retinol is useful in treating eye disorders, acne, skin disorders, and infections, as well as speeding up the healing process of wounds. It is also good for preventing macular degeneration and cataracts, and as a carotenoid, it also helps improve the health of your hair.

Vegetables4

Vitamin B1 or Thiamine can prevent beriberi, heart diseases, and indigestion, while boosting the body’s metabolism, blood circulation, and brain development. Positive connections with B1, as well as with B2 and B3, have made these essential for elderly patients who need extra nourishment or those who are at a high risk of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

Vitamin B2 or Riboflavin helps to treat cataracts, skin disorders, and anemia, while also improving the body’s metabolic activity, immunity, and nervous system.

Vitamin B3 or Niacin can reduce weakness, indigestion, skin disorders, migraines, heart disorders, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, diabetes, and diarrhea.

Vitamin B5 or Pantothenic Acid can relieve stress, arthritis, various infections, skin disorders, greying of the hair, and high cholesterol.

Vitamin B6 or Pyridoxamine is useful in the treatment of diabetes, piles, convulsions, excessive menstrual bleeding, stress, insomnia, morning sickness, and travel sickness. It is also associated with reducing homocysteine levels in the body.

Vitamin B7 or Biotin can treat skin disorders, improve the body’s metabolism, and boost hair care.

Vitamin B9 or Folic Acid is a very powerful too against anemia, indigestion, sprue, abnormal brain growth, skin disorders, and gout, while increasing red blood cell formation. It is mainly associated with neural tube defects, and is increasingly studied in relation to inhibiting homocysteine levels and thereby protecting against coronary heart disease.

Vitamin B12 or Cyanocobalamin can reduce symptoms and side effects of anemia, smoking, pregnancy, liver disorders, kidney disorders, and mouth ulcers. When combined with adequate amounts of B6 and folic acid, B12 is essential in defending against various heart conditions, including strokes.

vitaminsinfoVitamin C or Ascorbic Acid works to treat various eye disorders, cancer, scurvy, the common cold, infections, diabetes, stress, high blood cholesterol, heart diseases, cancer, high blood pressure, kidney disorders, internal bleeding, piles, corneal ulcers, inflammations, and lead poisoning,
while also boosting the immune system. In recent years, it has also been associated with a prevention of cognitive decline and cerebrovascular disease. It is one of the most powerful and essential antioxidants that we have in our body.

Vitamin D treats rickets, arthritis, tooth decay, and diabetes. It is also very beneficial for bone repair, immunity, and blood pressure. It is also used to prevent osteoporosis and has been positively linked to preventing a variety of different cancers and multiple sclerosis in patients already suffering from osteoarthritis.

Vitamin E or Tocopherol is often used for its anti-aging properties, and as a way to boost skin care, and protect against heart diseases, sterility, brain malfunction, menopause, painful menstrual cycles, and eye disorders, as well as improving blood circulation,

Vitamin K is a very important vitamin to prevent internal bleeding, biliary obstruction, osteoporosis, excessive menstrual flow, and menstrual pain, including an ability to improve blood clotting. It is also linked to bone metabolism, preventing of atherosclerosis, improved nerve signalling, and kidney stones.

 Low iron levels can raise your risk of stroke by making your blood more sticky, a new study indicates.

Investigators looked at data from nearly 500 people with a rare hereditary disease that causes them to have enlarged blood vessels in the lungs. Typically, blood vessels in the lungs don't allow clots to enter the arteries. But in these patients, clots can escape the lungs, travel to the brain and cause a stroke.

Those who had an iron deficiency had stickier platelets -- which are small blood cells that trigger clotting when they stick together -- and were more likely to suffer a stroke, according to the researchers at Imperial College London in the U.K.

Even those with moderately low iron levels were about twice as likely to suffer a stroke as those with iron levels in the middle of the normal range, according to the study published Feb. 19 in the journal PLoS One.

The researchers noted that many people have other types of conditions that let blood clots bypass the lung's filtering system, and they added that their findings could eventually help with stroke prevention.

Iron deficiency affects about 2 billion people worldwide, and recent research has shown that it may be a risk factor for stroke, but how iron deficiency could boost stroke risk was unknown.

"Since platelets in the blood stick together more if you are short of iron, we think this may explain why being short of iron can lead to strokes, though much more research will be needed to prove this link," Dr. Claire Shovlin, from the National Heart and Lung Institute at Imperial College London, said in a college news release.

"The next step is to test whether we can reduce high-risk patients' chances of having a stroke by treating their iron deficiency. We will be able to look at whether their platelets become less sticky," Shovlin said.

"There are many additional steps from a clot blocking a blood vessel to the final stroke developing, so it is still unclear just how important sticky platelets are to the overall process," she added.

Saw palmetto, glucosamine, co-enzyme Q10 these are the Brad and Jen and Angelina of the natural health world, adored by millions, hounded by the press, and nearly ubiquitous. But for every supplement that makes it big, there are others waiting in the wings that are just as talented and worthy of attention. We turned some of the country's top experts into our talent scouts, getting a sneak peek at the products they're recommending to their patients or using themselves. Heres their hot list of six impressive performers that may help you prevent disease and maintain a healthy, energetic lifestyle. You'll give two thumbs-up to all six of these rising stars.

DETOXIFIER — SELENIUM

POWER BENEFIT: Essential for proper immune function; may reduce the risk of certain cancers; helps rid the body of free radicals.

THE SCIENCE: While some people have already crossed paths with selenium, few know how critical it is to overall health, or how agricultural and processing practices degrade food sources of this essential trace mineral. A powerful antioxidant, selenium works especially well with vitamin E to fight damaging free radicals. Its vital for the immune system, boosting the body's defenses against bacteria and viruses, and it may reduce cancer risk, particularly in the prostate, colon, and lungs. The National Cancer Institute is currently sponsoring a study on whether supplementing with selenium and vitamin E can help prevent or delay prostate cancer.

Selenium is found in meat, wheat germ, nuts (particularly Brazil nuts), eggs, oats, whole-wheat bread, and brown rice. But modern farming practices have depleted the soil, so many people don't get sufficient selenium from their diets anymore, says Tanya Edwards, M.D., medical director for the Center for Integrative Medicine at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. Refining and processing also reduce selenium levels, which is why eating whole, unprocessed, organic food is the best way to obtain the nutrient.
Since this isn't always possible, Edwards recommends supplementing with selenium, which can be found by itself or in multivitamins. Taking selenium is particularly recommended for people with certain digestive conditions, such as Crohns disease and ulcerative colitis.