LIVING BY THE SEA MEANS MORE VITAMIN D
Thinking of moving house this summer? Why not do your vitamin D levels a favour and consider a house by the sea? A recent study carried out at The University of Exeter shows that people living on the coast have higher levels of vitamin D than their inland neighbours.
It seems fewer clouds along with the reflection of the sun from the sea and sand may explain why they absorb more UV rays – the action of which on the skin is the main source of vitamin D in the body. Low levels of vitamin D have been linked with cancer, heart disease, dementia and arthritis as well as childhood illnesses.
LUTEIN PROTECTS EYE HEALTH
Dark green leafy vegetables, including kale and spinach, as well as eggs, are rich sources of the compound lutein, thought to help reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts. According to Polish researchers, dietary intakes in older men and women are not always sufficient. Their advice is to take a daily supplement to make up for any deficiency.
CAMOMILE TEA PROMOTES LONGEVITY
Camomile has long been used for its cholesterol-lowering, antioxidant and inflammatory effects and now it seems it may help prolong life – at least in women. Researchers from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston found that drinking camomile tea was linked with a lower risk of death from all causes in a group of Mexican women over the age of 65. It is not known why the effect was seen only in women but it could simply be down to the fact that they are more frequent camomile tea drinkers say the researchers.
HEAR, HEAR
Here’s another reason to encourage your family to eat their five-a-day – it may help protect against hearing loss. Researchers from the University of Florida have discovered a strong link between a healthy diet, hearing and noise exposure. A diet rich in vegetables, fruit and fibre, but low in salt, cholesterol and saturated fat is what you need to aim for.
