Life Extension Magazine®
 The heart-healthy benefits of garlic include protecting the endothelial lining of the arterial system against oxidative damage. A study published in Atherosclerosis (1999; 144:237-249) shows an actual reduction in build-up of fatty plaque in arteries in garlic supplement users. Fatty plaque is comprised of many substances including cholesterol. When plaque accumulates in the coronary arteries, the condition can lead to heart attack. In a study of 280 adults, German researchers report that participants who took 900 mg of garlic powder per day had up to 18% less plaque in their arteries than those who took a placebo or "dummy" powder. Male study participants who took placebo had a 5.5% increase in plaque volume, while those who took the garlic powder experienced just a 1.1% increase in plaque build-up during the 4-year study period. By comparison, women who took the garlic showed a 4.6% decrease in plaque volume, while those who took the placebo powder had a 5.3% increase. Garlic may affect plaque build-up by reducing blood platelet stickiness (aggregation) and specifically preventing the oxidation of LDL cholesterol onto the lining of the arteries. Platelet aggregation helps plaque cling to the arteries. Manic No More By definition, bipolar depression is a perplexing disease. Adequately treating and preventing, not to mention properly diagnosing the illness has plagued medical circles all too often. Now, according to recent studies, fish oil may prove effective in treating the disease. A study published in Arch Gen Psychiatry (1999 May, 56(5):407-12) studied the effects of omega 3 fatty acids on bipolar disorder. The four-month, double-blind, placebo-controlled study compared the effects omega 3 fatty acids-fish, flax or perilla oils (9.6 g/d) to placebo (olive oil) in 30 patients who continued their usual regimen. The study showed that the omega 3 fatty acid patient group had a significantly longer period of remission than the placebo group. Furthermore, for nearly every other outcome measure, the omega 3 fatty acid group outperformed the placebo group. In short, the study findings concluded that omega 3 fatty acids improve the short-term course of patients with bipolar disorder. Late-breaking, brief news items of interest to life extensionists, as well as anyone interested in living a longer, healthier life. Soy Wonders Most of the symposium's presentation will be based on human trials. Lectures and research exchanges will highlight soy and soybean components in relation to: - cancer prevention, treatment Cell Biology Proposed symposia: |
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