A study in the Netherlands has found that supplementing folic acid can improve memory in the elderly - see http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/6278117.stm for the full article.

This new research confirms previous studies that have shown similar results and also confirms what we know - nutrition is really important and especially in vulnerable groups such as the elderly.

To me, it also says that it is not always possible to get all the nutrients you need for optimum health from diet alone - sometimes supplements can be really beneficial. The government has long recognised that folic acid can prevent neural tube birth defects if taken for the 3 months before and after conception, and it recommends levels that far exceed the 'RDA' (see http://www.rcog.org.uk/index.asp?PageID=541).


Folic acid, together with other nutrients including vitamin B6 and B12, is also know to reduce levels of homocysteine, a chemical made in the body that is linked to diseases such as heart disease, stroke and Alzheimer's. More research please!

A poll carried out by Cancer Research UK says that 27% of people believe that fate determines whether they will develop cancer (for the full story see http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/6226117.stm).

As a trained Medical Herbalist and trainee Nutritionist, I am convinced that this is simply not true. There is a mass of evidence that diet, environment and lifestyle can affect the chances of developing cancer, and that certain plant chemicals found in herbs, fruits, vegetables and other plant materials, have a protective action in the body against cancer.

But it is not as simple as taking more fruit or an antioxidant supplement. Stress, emotional issues, pollution, lack of exercise, obesity, excess dietary fat and many other dietary and lifestyle factors are also important. There is so much that you can do to really reduce your chances of developing cancer, and using herbal remedies and good diet are just the start.

I often advise people who are concerned about cancer or who may have a history of cancer in their family, offering individual advice on diet, lifestyle and herbal remedies that may be used in the long term and will also help to increase general health and vitality.

For more information about how to use herbs and supplements safely find your nearest Medical Herbalist (go to www.nimh.org.uk for details) or Nutritional Therapist. For details of my own clinics, please click here.