Ellen Campbell-Grizzle
SOME DIETARY supplements play an important role in maintaining good health and preventing disease. Research is showing that Omega-3 fatty acids, Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), and Coenzyme Q10 have great potential. They have been effectively used against various health problems and new studies are revealing greater promise.
OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS
Omega-3 fatty acids may be the healthiest fat you can eat. You consume them in salmon, tuna, mackerel and cold water fish. Recent studies from the University of Washington, Seattle and the University of Kuopio in Finland, found that, among 773 persons, those with the highest levels of two particular omega-3 fatty acids had 50 to 65 per cent lower risk of fatal heart attack than those with lower levels. These substances are eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) fatty acids. Teens with mental cramps and persons with depression have reported the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. The body needs both omega-6 and omega-3 to be healthy.
Maintain omega-6/omega-3 balance. We are consuming too much omega-6 fatty acids and this imbalance is disrupting cellular metabolism. Talk to a nutritionist about how you can achieve a better omega-6/omega-3 balance in your diet.
The promise: Less cardiovascular disease; lower lethal heart attack; depression relief; fewer menstrual cramps.
CONJUGATED LINOLEIC ACID(CLA)
CLA can help you to keep off fat once you have shed the pounds. Studies show that CLA will not help you to lose weight. Diet and exercise are still the best way to do that. Michael W. Pariza, a researcher at the University of Madison-Wisconsin, 20 years after he described anti-cancer properties of CLA, has discovered that the supplement blocks an enzyme that allows fat to pour into fat cells. This action prevents them and you from growing larger. Pariza believes that other reported health benefits related to lower triglycerides, cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure are related to positive body-fat control. CLA is abundant in beef, full fat dairy products and mother's milk. If you are planning to take CLA supplements, talk to your doctor first. Study subjects have reported minor stomach upset so most experts suggest that you take CLA with food.
The promise: Reduced body fat (particularly abdominal fat); more lean body mass; enhanced immunity; lower blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure.
COENZYME Q10 (COQ10)
A new study suggests that CoQ10 supplementation reduces tremors, stiffness and slowed movement associated with Parkinson's disease. As in earlier studies with heart patients, researchers have found that CoQ10 stores are depleted in patients with Parkinson's. The researchers surmise that CoQ10 supplementation helped the patients by improving the functioning of their mitochondria - the 'powerhouses' that produce energy in the cells. Fish and animal products do contain some but supplementation may be required. You should consult your doctor before taking CoQ10. Remember some brands may contain the chemical propylene glycol which is added to improve absorption. Overdose of propylene glycol can be toxic.
The promise: Reduction in symptoms of congestive heart failure; reduction in symptoms of Parkinson's disease; prevention of heart damage in patients on chemotherapy; boosting the immune system.
Consumers need to recognise the market hype surrounding these products. Outrageous claims describe some supplements as 'all cures', 'miracle supplements' or 'extraordinary treatments'. It is important to recognise the real value of a supplement to your particular health status and to use it accordingly.
Ellen Campbell Grizzle, president, Caribbean Association of Pharmacists; director, information & research, National Council on Drug Abuse.
