Vitamins & Minerals

Maintaining optimal bone health is crucial for overall well-being and quality of life, yet bone-related disorders such as osteoporosis pose significant health challenges, particularly among aging populations. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the role of nutraceuticals and functional foods in promoting bone health and preventing bone-related conditions. This comprehensive review provides an overview of the current evidence on the efficacy and mechanisms of action of various nutraceuticals and functional foods in supporting bone health. Key topics covered include the impact of dietary nutrients, bioactive compounds and herbal extracts on bone metabolism, bone mineral density and fracture risk. Additionally, emerging trends in bone health research, including personalized nutrition approaches and the influence of gut microbiota on bone health, are discussed. By synthesizing current knowledge and highlighting areas for future research, this review aims to inform healthcare professionals, researchers and consumers about the potential role of nutraceuticals and functional foods in optimizing bone health and reducing the burden of bone-related disorders.

Vitamin D is a multifunctional hormone with diverse physiological roles beyond its classical function in calcium and bone metabolism. Emerging research has highlighted the importance of vitamin D in various biological processes, including immune regulation, cardiovascular health and cancer prevention. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the physiology of vitamin D and its implications for disease prevention. Key topics covered include the mechanisms of vitamin D synthesis, metabolism and signaling pathways, as well as the effects of vitamin D deficiency on health outcomes. Additionally, the potential therapeutic applications of vitamin D supplementation in preventing and managing chronic diseases will be discussed. By enhancing our understanding of the physiological functions of vitamin D, this review seeks to inform healthcare professionals and the general public about the importance of maintaining adequate vitamin D status for optimal health and disease prevention.

Psoriasis vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by dysregulated immune responses and abnormal keratinocyte proliferation. Emerging evidence suggests a potential link between vitamin K deficiency and the pathogenesis of psoriasis, highlighting the role of vitamin K in modulating inflammation, oxidative stress and tissue calcification. This pilot investigation aims to explore the prevalence of vitamin K deficiency in patients with psoriasis vulgaris and evaluate its association with disease severity and clinical outcomes. Serum levels of vitamin K and markers of inflammation, oxidative stress and vascular calcification will be measured in a cohort of patients with psoriasis vulgaris compared to healthy controls. Additionally, correlations between vitamin K status and disease activity, severity scores and treatment response will be analyzed. The findings from this pilot investigation may provide insights into the potential role of vitamin K in the pathophysiology of psoriasis vulgaris and inform future research directions and therapeutic strategies targeting vitamin K metabolism in the management of psoriasis.

As the global population ages, maintaining musculoskeletal health becomes increasingly important to preserve mobility, independence and overall quality of life among older adults. While individual macronutrients and micronutrients have been extensively studied for their roles in musculoskeletal health, emerging evidence suggests that nutrient synergy, the combined impact of multiple nutrients, may exert greater benefits than isolated nutrient supplementation. This review explores the concept of nutrient synergy in the context of musculoskeletal health in gerontology, focusing on the interplay between macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates and fats) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals). Key topics covered include the synergistic effects of nutrients on bone density, muscle mass, strength and physical function in aging populations. Additionally, the role of nutrient interactions, bioavailability and dietary patterns in optimizing musculoskeletal health outcomes will be discussed. By synthesizing current research findings, this review aims to provide insights into the potential benefits of nutrient synergy for promoting musculoskeletal health in older adults and inform future research and clinical practice in gerontology.