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High folic acid in pregnancy linked to early bleeding risk

A study of 2,400 women found that high folic acid intake was associated with vaginal bleeding in early pregnancy, especially in pregnancies carrying a boy. Women taking 800 micrograms or more of folic acid per day were more likely to experience spotting and mild bleeding during the first 16 weeks of pregnancy.

SourceFlinders University·JournalReproductive Health·TypeObservational study·DateAug 24, 2026

Inhaled vitamin D has potential to improve lung function

Research suggests that inhaled vitamin D can protect against dust, pollution, and pathogens in the lungs, potentially improving outcomes for those with chronic lung disease. Human clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings and explore the therapeutic benefits of direct lung delivery.

SourceCOPD Foundation·JournalChronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases Journal of the COPD Foundation·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 25, 2026

Vitamin C may help prevent cancer

A University of Waterloo study uses mathematical modelling to explore how Vitamin C affects digestion-related cancer risk. The research suggests that consuming Vitamin C-rich foods like leafy greens may decrease cancer risk, while taking supplements after meals could have a moderate positive effect.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Theoretical Biology·DateMay 20, 2026

Study reveals potential therapeutic target for treating glaucoma

Researchers have identified a metabolically sensitive cell subtype in the eye's drainage system that shows early signs of dysfunction in a genetic mouse model of glaucoma. The study provides what the editors say are fundamental findings highlighting a potential therapeutic strategy for preventing or slowing the development of glaucoma.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2026

Largest study of its kind highlights benefits – and risks – of plant-based diets in children

A large meta-analysis of over 48,000 children found that well-planned plant-based diets can support healthy growth and even offer additional health benefits for children. However, the study also highlights risks of deficiencies in key nutrients such as vitamin B12 and zinc if not obtained through fortified foods or supplements.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalCritical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 12, 2025

Targeted vitamin D3 supplementation cuts risk of heart attack patients having a second heart attack in half, new intermountain health study finds

A tailored approach to vitamin D3 supplementation in heart attack patients reduces their risk of a second heart attack by half, according to a new study from Intermountain Health. The study found that monitoring and adjusting blood levels of vitamin D3 to optimal levels significantly reduces cardiovascular risk.

SourceIntermountain Healthcare·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 9, 2025

How micronutrients have shaped human DNA

Researchers found genetic adaptations in response to micronutrient shortages and surpluses, particularly in regions with iodine-poor soils. The study provides insights into the impact of micronutrient availability on human evolution, highlighting potential vulnerabilities to deficiencies as climate change affects soil nutrient levels.

SourceCell Press·JournalThe American Journal of Human Genetics·TypeObservational study·DateSep 10, 2025

Vitamin D during pregnancy may play a role in children’s cognitive development, ECHO study suggests

A new study by the Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) Cohort suggests that higher vitamin D levels during pregnancy may be associated with better cognitive test scores in children. Children of Black mothers, in particular, showed strongest association between vitamin D and cognitive development.

SourceEnvironmental influences on Child Health Outcomes·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeObservational study·DateAug 6, 2025

From plants to people: How amino acid, vitamin balance links plant immunity to epilepsy

A study by researchers at the University of Kentucky has found that plant immune responses and human neurological health share common biochemical pathways. This discovery highlights the importance of plant-based diets for essential vitamins and amino acids, and suggests a link between disruptions in amino acid metabolism and human health.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalNature Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2025

High levels of omega-3, omega-6 may protect against cancer

A study published in the International Journal of Cancer found that high levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids were linked to lower rates of various cancers. The research, which analyzed data from over 250,000 people, suggests that increasing these essential fatty acids through diet or supplements may help reduce cancer risk.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateNov 4, 2024

Billions worldwide consume inadequate levels of micronutrients critical to human health

A new study found significant intake inadequacies for nearly all evaluated micronutrients, with iodine and vitamin E deficiencies being the most prevalent. The researchers estimated inadequate intakes were higher for women than men in some countries, highlighting a need for targeted dietary interventions.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·TypeObservational study·DateAug 29, 2024

Marine bacteria team up to produce a vital vitamin

Researchers discovered that two species of marine bacteria work together to produce vitamin B12, essential for metabolism and survival of many marine organisms. The bacteria release building blocks into the water, which are then combined to form the vitamin through a complex process involving viral infection.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2024

Cocoa extract supplement found to have benefits for cognition among older adults with lower diet quality

A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that taking cocoa extract supplements containing 500 mg of flavanols daily may improve cognitive function in older adults with lower habitual diet quality. In contrast, participants with healthy dietary patterns showed no cognitive benefits.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 7, 2023