Betsy's Article Library
Please note that these are excerpts from newsletter articles and that the information contained on these documents is not intended as medical advice, but is solely for education purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, prescribe, and does not replace the services of a trained physician. It is assumed that the reader will consult a medical or health professional if you know or suspect that you have a serious health problem.
Micronutrients reduced AIDS risk In a new study, broad-spectrum multivitamin-minerals increased the type of white blood cell (CD4) that is critical to combating acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Doctors recruited 40 patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)—the condition that precedes AIDS—who were taking highly active anti-retroviral therapy (HAART). In the 12-week double-blind trial, patients took a placebo or a supplement twice per day that contained vitamins A, B, C, D, and E; acetyl-l-carnitine, alpha lipoic acid, chromium, copper, N-acetyl cysteine, selenium, and zinc. Researchers collected data every four weeks and found that, at 12 weeks, the number of CD4 cells had grown by an average of 65—a 24 percent increase—in those who had taken the supplement compared to a decrease of six cells—a two percent decline—among those who had taken the placebo. Researchers noted that as HIV progresses, CD4 cells weaken and die, and that the health and number of CD4 cells is the primary way doctors determine what therapies to use, and if HIV is progressing toward AIDS. Doctors concluded that micronutrient supplements can significantly improve CD4 cell strength and count in HIV-infected patients taking HAART, without side effects, and may be an effective complementary therapy. Reference: Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome; 2006, Vol. 42, No. 5, 523-8. The articles on Betsy's website are reprinted courtesy of Retail Insights, Inc. Copyright 2007. |
