Tips for Health and Longevity: My Take on the Evidence

Sarcopenia is a major component in the development of frailty within the elderly [1], i ncreasing risk of falls and affecting  the ability to undertake basic tasks of daily living. Loss of muscular mass and strength begins as early as 30 years of age, and is determined by both peak muscle mass attained in early life and the subsequent rate of muscle loss  [2] . High protein intake is frequently reported to delay progression of sarcopenia, but a recent study by Farsijani et al. suggested that distribution of protein intake between meals is also of significance  [3] . From discussing their findings within wider research, it has bee concluded that evenly distributing daily protein throughout the day, consuming a portion of at least 30g of high quality protein at breakfast, lunch and dinner , may increase muscle mass and strength within the elderly. It could also be recommended that young and middle-aged adults follow similar advice to maximise peak muscle mass, so that t...

Colorectal cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed types of cancer in the UK, particularly within those aged over 65 years , and is the second biggest contributor to cancer deaths [1] .  Associations between nutrition and risk of colorectal cancer frequently focus on reducing consumption of red or processed meat or increasing dietary fibre, however a study by Gylling et al. has suggested that vitamin B6 status is also of importance  [2] . From discussing their findings in the context of wider research, it has been concluded that regularly meeting recommended daily intake of vitamin B6 , of 1.4mg/day for men and 1.2mg/day for women , ideally from dietary sources , may reduce risk of colorectal cancer.   Colorectal cancer (CRC) accounts for 11% of all cancer cases in the UK, with 41,000 people diagnosed each year  [3] . The most common form of CRC is adenocarcinoma, which originates from polyp growth in the gland cells of the bowel lining. If left untreate...

The NHS recommends that everyone considers taking a vitamin D supplement, particularly in the autumn and winter months, to optimise musculoskeletal health. However, a recent review by Martineau et al. [1] made the headlines by suggesting that this guidance could also help combat the common cold and flu. After assessing the findings of this study within the limited scope of current research it has been concluded that vitamin D offers some immunomodulatory effects , but there is  not enough scientific evidence to advise supplementation for protection against respiratory tract infections. Recent headlines have stated that increasing vitamin D status could combat the common cold or flu, suggesting the benefits of population-wide supplementation [2]. Such action is already recommended by Public Health England during autumn and winter for those whose diet is not sufficient in either foods naturally containing vitamin D, such as oily fish, liver and egg yolks, or those fortified with...