What is a Micronutrient?

micronutrientThe Linus Pauling Institute likes to use the word micronutrient. This is not only because many world-renown authorities on micronutrients work at the LPI, but also because we maintain a database of scientifically accurate information regarding the roles of micronutrients in human health and disease, the Micronutrient Information Center (MIC).

Exactly what is a ‘micronutrient,’ anyway?

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Keep Taking Your Vitamins

multivitamins

An article by Paul Offit titled “The Vitamin Myth: Why We Think We Need Supplements” has been part of the media blitz surrounding so-called negative claims of vitamin and mineral supplements.

The Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University has a different point of view – one that is based on the totality of the evidence, rather than selective claims.

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Multivitamins are not miracles… but they are important.

Multivitamins

Are you worried about headlines saying you stop taking your multivitamin? Are they “useless” and potentially harmful?

Worry not. As we all know, headlines can be misleading. In this case, they ignore the totality of the evidence from decades of nutrition research.

At the Linus Pauling Institute, we still believe in the necessity of multivitamin supplements.

Continue reading Multivitamins are not miracles… but they are important.

Vitamin D, Blueberries, and Grapes: Partners in the Immune System?

Blueberries - can they work with vitamin D?

Part of a healthy immune system involves responding to bacterial invasion. The body has many mechanisms to combat bacteria, including the white blood cells or leukocytes.

Several types of white blood cells produce small strings of amino acids (that are typically referred to as ‘peptides’) that can target invading bacteria. Through a variety of mechanisms, these peptides can associate with a bacterial cell membrane, breaking the cell open and driving it toward death. Collectively, these are known as “antimicrobial peptides”.

Here’s where vitamin D gets involved:

Continue reading Vitamin D, Blueberries, and Grapes: Partners in the Immune System?