This preclinical study published in 2019 presents insights into the importance of maintaining healthy biotin levels to prevent skin and hair changes often seen with zinc deficiency. References: Ogawa Y, Kinoshita M, Sato T, Shimada S, Kawamura T. Biotin Is Required for the Zinc Homeostasis in the Skin. Nutrients. 2019 Apr 24;11(4):919. doi: 10.3390/nu11040919. PMID: …
Biotin is required for the zinc homeostasis in the skin Read More »
In this 2018 systematic review 10 articles (preclinical) were included in the final analysis. These studies demonstrated that vitamin C increases type 1 collagen fibres, scar tissue formation and accelerates bone healing after fracture. References: DePhillipo, N. N., Aman, Z. S., Kennedy, M. I., Begley, J. P., Moatshe, G., & LaPrade, R. F. (2018). Efficacy …
This review from 2020 focused on available data relating to the role of proline (Pro) in collagen biosynthesis and cellular metabolism. It suggests that Pro availability determines the rate of collagen biosynthesis and demand for Pro in fibroblasts is predominantly met by conversion from Gln. References: This review from 2020 focused on available data relating …
Proline-dependent regulation of collagen metabolism Read More »
This comprehensive 2016 review highlighted a number of uses for the complete vitamin E complex. Specifically, it identified a number of studies that were able to demonstrate cholesterol lowering effects, though this has yet to be established, but suppression of enzyme (HMG-CoA reductase) activity at the RNA level is believed to be involved. Tocotrienols seem …
Vitamin E therapy beyond cancer: Tocopherol versus tocotrienol Read More »
This review paper from 2015 outlines the critical role that vitamin E plays in neurological health. While this paper dealt with alpha tocopherol specifically, this still highlights the benefits of tocopherols (while many other papers are focused on tocotrienols). The findings outlined demonstrate that α-tocopherol adequacy is essential for CNS functions, beyond its role in …
In this comprehensive review published in 2020, authors compiled the significant preclinical and clinical data relating to uses for hyaluronic acid in a variety of systems. From ophthalmic, arthritic and cancer management, this truly versatile polysaccharide has significant therapeutic potential. Authors specified the crucial role of HA in skin conditions as healing based on anti-inflammatory, …
This preclinical study from 2005 forms the theoretical basis for which future investigations of HA use in degenerative joint conditions was based. The authors were able to demonstrate the beneficial impact of hyaluronic acid in joint spaces. While studies previously suggested that HA only offered temporary relief as a viscosupplementation therapy (restoring the elasticity and …
The effects of hyaluronic acid on articular chondrocytes Read More »
This 2016 review investigates evidence for the commercial use of silicon supplements. On the skin, it is suggested that silicon is important for optimal collagen synthesis and activation of hydroxylating enzymes, improving skin strength and elasticity. Regarding hair benefits, it was suggested that a higher silicon content in the hair results in a lower rate …
This 2013 review discusses the possible biological potential of the metalloid silicon as bioavailable orthosilicic acid and the potential beneficial effects on human health. Silicon has been suggested to exhibit roles in the structural integrity of nails, hair and skin, overall collagen synthesis, bone mineralization and bone health, and reduced metal accumulation in Alzheimer’s disease, …
A double-blind, placebo-controlled study from 2016 randomized elderly participants to receive 30 mg of zinc daily for 3 months. Serum zinc concentrations increased after supplementation, and researchers found that this increase led to an increased number of T-cells (specific cells that modulate immune responses), thereby enhancing T-cell function. References: Barnett, J. B., Dao, M. C., …
