Abstracts & Commentary

ND, LAc, MPH
The mental health benefits of gardening have been recognized for centuries and confirmed by modern-day science, but a recent study is among the first to explore the mechanism of action using biomarker data.
MD
Sophisticated inpatient trial and several other new studies confirm the harm of ultra-processed foods.
ND, LAc
A placebo-controlled trial compares the effects of pomegranate juice, pomegranate juice with synbiotics, and a synbiotic-only beverage on insulin parameters in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Is the addition of pomegranate juice worth the extra sugar and calories?
ND
A population cohort study from the United Kingdom finds a significant relationship between air quality and the occurrence of psychotic events during adolescence (between the ages of 12 and 18).
MD
Study comparing low-carbohydrate, moderate-carbohydrate, and high-carbohydrate diets identifies key mechanism regarding sustainable weight loss.
ND, FABNO
Many studies have assessed the benefits of exercise in men with prostate cancer, but a recent study is the first to look specifically at the association of physical activity and risk of progression in men who are on active surveillance. Can vigorous exercise delay prostate cancer progression?
Editor In Chief
Clock genes help control circadian rhythms. Several polymorphisms of the CLOCK gene, one of the first such genes to be discovered, have been identified. Could variations in the CLOCK gene explain differences in aging quality?
ND
Melatonin use among adults has nearly doubled in the last decade, but comprehensive data on adverse effects is lacking. A recent randomized controlled trial used a creative setup to explore whether or not melatonin increases aggressive tendencies, an effect that has been observed in animals.
ND, LAc, MPH
Light at night (LAN), often called “light pollution,” has been identified as a public health threat. A recent study links LAN specifically to increased prevalence of depression and suicide or suicidal ideation.
ND, LAc, MPH
Exposure to green space has been shown to improve mental health in both children and adults. A large study involving nearly 1 million people is the first to show a relationship between green space exposure during childhood and risk of mental illness in adulthood.