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622 studies found
The beneficial effects of Chlorella vulgaris supplementation on health-related indices in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a GRADE-assessed systematic review and meta-analysis
Jafari et al., 7 Iranian RCTs, 375 NAFLD, 8–12 weeks. Weight −1.62 kg, FBS −6.25, hs-CRP −1.02, LDL −6.45, TC −7.18, ALP −14.84, AST −4.99. GRADE very low, Iran only. Positive (AST/ALP), neutral (ALT not significant in abstract).
Risk factors for androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Large meta-analysis of 31 observational studies. Overweight/obesity was significantly associated with the progression of androgenetic alopecia (OR 2.31). The association with the mere presence of AGA was weaker and not robust after corrections. Insulin resistance and elevated fasting insulin levels were also risk factors for the presence of AGA.
Effects of 20% Ferulic Acid Facial Peels on Skin Barrier Function and Elasticity: A Pilot Instrumental Study
Pilot study with 20% ferulic acid peels. The treatment significantly improved skin barrier function and elasticity. It is an instrumental study with positive effects on skin quality parameters.
Alcohol, Wine, and Sleep in Adults: Insights from a Narrative Review
Alcohol shortens sleep onset time but markedly disrupts sleep architecture: REM sleep suppression, increased sleep fragmentation, and impaired breathing (especially in the second half of the night). Regular consumption is associated with poorer subjective sleep quality, insomnia symptoms, and increased risk of sleep-related breathing disorders.
Risk factors for androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 31 observational studies (11,224 AGA cases and 36,825 controls). Significantly associated with the presence and progression of androgenetic alopecia were: family history (presence: OR 2.72; progression: OR 4.24) and smoking (presence: OR 1.46; progression: OR 1.60).
Risk factors for androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
In this large meta-analysis, insufficient or poor sleep was significantly associated with the progression of androgenetic alopecia (OR 1.36).
The Intersection of Sleep and Hair Loss: A Systematic Review
Systematic review on the relationships between sleep disorders and various forms of hair loss. The authors evaluate associations across multiple hair loss subtypes, describe shared and specific mechanisms, and provide guidance for counseling and management in dermatology.
Creatine supplementation in young men under resistance versus non-resistance training: a systematic review and meta-analysis of strength, performance, and lean mass
39 RCTs, men aged 18–30. With resistance training: FFM +3.39 kg, LBM +2.70 kg; without training, mass n.s. Wingate peak +71 W, mean +40 W in both settings. CMJ +2.87 cm, I² high.
Examining the effect of L-theanine on sleep: a systematic review of dietary supplementation trials
Systematic review. A dosage of 200–450 mg L-theanine per day is safe and effective for supporting healthy sleep and sleep quality.
Mastic gum as an adjunct therapy to standard bismuth quadruple therapy for Helicobacter pylori eradication: A randomized single-blind pilot study
Single-blind randomized pilot study. Adding mastic gum to standard bismuth quadruple therapy numerically increased the eradication rate (85% vs 67%) but did not reach statistical significance. Dyspepsia symptom relief was significantly better in the mastic group. Both regimens were well tolerated.
Ursolic Acid-Standardized Apple Pomace Supplementation on Muscle Strength and Physical Performance
This ongoing RCT focuses on the effects of ursolic acid-standardized apple pomace on handgrip strength and physical performance in older adults. No results have been published yet; its potential remains unclear.
Clinical evidence for the adaptogenic effects of Withania somnifera and Rhodiola rosea – A systematic review with molecular interpretation of psychometric outcomes
Systematic review of RCTs on both adaptogens (5 studies on Rhodiola). Reduction of stress and anxiety, relief of depressive symptoms, better sleep quality and cognitive improvements. Dosages 290–1500 mg/day over 3–16 weeks. Limitations: heterogeneity, short intervention times, small samples.
Effect of saffron on depression, anxiety and mood disorder: a GRADE assessed systematic review and meta-analysis of 34 randomized controlled trials
34 RCTs with 1,769 participants. Saffron significantly reduced Beck Depression Inventory (BDI: WMD –4.39) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI: WMD –5.06). No significant effects on Hamilton scales (HDRS/HARS) or POMS. GRADE certainty moderate. Saffron can be effective as adjunctive intervention for self-reported depressive and anxiety symptoms.
Effect of Five Dietary Emulsifiers on Inflammation, Permeability, and the Gut Microbiome: A Placebo-controlled Randomized Trial
60 healthy, 2 weeks emulsifier-free diet (EFD), then 4 weeks continued EFD plus CMC, polysorbate-80, carrageenan, soy lecithin, native rice starch or no additives (brownies). After 2 weeks EFD: cholesterol down. Under emulsifiers: alpha-diversity stable, composition differed by treatment/visit. CMC vs. placebo: all SCFA lower. No difference in calprotectin, CRP, LBP, cholesterol. Carrageenan: transcellular permeability vs. baseline higher. Exploratory: emulsifiers lower SCFA, not systemic inflammation; EFD lowers cholesterol.
Strength Training and Resveratrol
An ongoing RCT in adults over 60 investigates resveratrol and strength training's impact on skeletal muscle and extracellular vesicles. No results are published yet, and data on young athletes is missing. Potential benefits remain unclear.
Strain-Specific Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis of Probiotics Efficacy in the Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Strain-specific systematic review with meta-analyses of single strains (32 articles, 10 strains). Bifidobacterium longum (formerly B. infantis) 35624 significantly reduced abdominal pain severity, straining/difficulty defecating and global IBS symptoms. Effects on bloating, urgency, incomplete evacuation and gas passage were insufficient. The strain is among the few with demonstrated efficacy on core IBS symptoms in strain-specific meta-analyses.
Risk factors for androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Meta-analysis of 31 observational studies. Insulin resistance (SMD 0.40) and elevated fasting insulin levels (SMD 0.48) were significantly associated with the presence of androgenetic alopecia. Overweight/obesity and metabolic factors also played a role in progression.
Associations of Sleep and Shift Work With Osteoarthritis Risk
<6 h sleep vs 7 h: higher knee OA and knee replacement (HR about 1.21–1.41). Frequent insomnia similar. Night shift: +24% knee OA, +28% knee replacement. Attenuated after BMI, but short sleep/insomnia remain.
Lactobacillus-Based Microbiome Therapy for Acne Vulgaris: A GRADE Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Meta-analysis: lactobacillus-based probiotics showed positive effects in acne versus placebo and benzoyl peroxide.
Effects of psychological stress on skin aging: A literature review
Narrative review, no own human study. The authors summarize known pathways: chronic HPA and sympathetic activation → more glucocorticoids and catecholamines → oxidative stress, breakdown of extracellular matrix (collagen/elastin), worse epidermal barrier. This could favor premature skin aging. They write themselves that longitudinal studies with molecular markers are still missing before prevention or therapy can be derived.
Role of Probiotics in Managing Acne Vulgaris: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials
Meta-analysis: probiotics significantly reduced acne severity.
Resveratrol and Physical Activity: A Successful Combination for the Maintenance of Health and Wellbeing?
Resveratrol combined with resistance training enhances mitochondrial function, muscle strength, and mobility in older adults with functional limitations. The combination is beneficial for maintaining mitochondrial health and strength in elderly populations.
The best approaches and doses of exercise for improving sleep quality: a network meta-analysis and dose-response relationship study
Network meta-analysis with dose-response analysis. The optimal dose was approximately 920 MET-min/week. The best dose varies by exercise type.
Sleep patterns, genetic susceptibility, and osteoarthritis risk: insights from the UK Biobank and external validation in the Xiangya Osteoarthritis Study
Worst sleep pattern (little sleep, snoring, insomnia, daytime sleepiness): +32% knee, +19% hip, +42% hand OA. Independent of genetic OA risk. Validation in a Chinese cohort.
The causal impact of smoking behavior on osteoarthritis: a Mendelian randomization analysis
Smoking initiation: +20% knee OA, +16% hip OA. Lifelong smoking even stronger (knee about doubled in the estimate).
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Probiotic Supplementation in Combination With Doxycycline for the Treatment of Moderate Acne: A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Clinical Trial
RCT: probiotics plus doxycycline improved acne significantly more than doxycycline alone.
Non-linear association of sleep duration with osteoarthritis among middle-aged and older adults: Results from a prospective cohort study in China
U-shape, inflection at 7.5 h. <6 h OR 1.39; 6–7 h OR 1.27 vs longer/optimal.
Prevalence and impact of sleep disorders in osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
81 studies, ~290,000 OA patients. Sleep disorders in ~69%. Worse sleep quality than controls; more pain, fatigue, disability.
Hair Loss and Zinc Deficiency: A Cross-Sectional Study
Large retrospective cross-sectional study in 23,975 patients. Patients with a hair loss diagnosis had statistically significantly lower median zinc levels (96 vs. 99 µg/dL), but the difference was very small and both groups were within the normal range. The authors see no clinical relevance and do not recommend routine zinc screening for hair loss. Ferritin and hemoglobin also showed slight differences.
Adenosine as an Active Ingredient in Topical Preparations Against Hair Loss: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Published Clinical Trials
Systematic review and meta-analysis of available clinical trials. Topical adenosine (mostly 0.75% lotion) shows tendencies toward higher hair density, more thick hairs, and fewer thin hairs. The authors conclude that it can increase hair thickness, reduce excessive hair loss, and stimulate hair growth. The overall strength of evidence is still low (small samples, design limitations). Very good tolerability. Useful as an adjunct or alternative when other agents are not tolerated.
Caffeine as an Active Ingredient in Cosmetic Preparations Against Hair Loss: A Systematic Review of Available Clinical Evidence
Systematic review of clinical studies on topical caffeine preparations. Studies with a total of 684 individuals (AGA, increased hair loss or thinning) were included. All studies favored topical caffeine. However, evidence quality was mixed (moderate in 3 studies, low to very low in the remaining). The authors conclude that topical caffeine preparations appear safe and effective against hair loss.
Efficacy and safety of topical finasteride spray solution in the treatment of Chinese men with androgenetic alopecia: A phase III, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study
Phase III multicenter RCT in 270 Chinese men. Topical finasteride spray once daily for 24 weeks was significantly superior to placebo and well tolerated.
Resistant Starch and Microbiota-Derived Secondary Metabolites: A Focus on Postbiotic Pathways in Gut Health and Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Review on RS as a substrate for postbiotics (SCFAs, indoles, GABA precursors). RS3 in particular is considered relevant for gut barrier, inflammation and possible IBS effects.
Rosmagain™ as a Natural Therapeutic for Hair Regrowth and Scalp Health: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Three-Armed, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Double-blind study with rosemary-lavender oil and rosemary-castor oil vs. coconut oil. Both rosemary blends showed significant improvements in hair growth rate, thickness, density, length, and hair loss reduction compared to the control group.
Efficacy and safety of oral minoxidil in the treatment of alopecia: a single-arm rate meta-analysis and systematic review
Large meta-analysis (2,933 patients from 27 studies): 35% significant improvement, 47% overall improvement. Adverse effects in approx. 27%. Particularly effective at doses > 1 mg/day. Oral minoxidil is used off-label at low doses (usually 0.25–5 mg/day).
A randomized trial of inulin for bowel symptoms, depression and quality of life in constipation predominant IBS
Inulin/oligofructose mixture 9.2 g/day in IBS-C. Symptom severity fell and quality of life rose. Small study.
Inulin-induced improvements on bowel habit and gut microbiota in adults with functional constipation: findings of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study
4 weeks of 12 g chicory inulin daily. More stool frequency, better abdominal symptoms and wellbeing. Rise in Bifidobacterium and Anaerostipes.
Safety and efficacy of curcumin in the treatment of ulcerative colitis: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
8 RCTs, 482 patients. Adding curcumin to standard therapy increased clinical remission (RR 2.33) and clinical and endoscopic improvement. Endoscopic remission was only a trend. No serious adverse effects.
Effects of nicotine on sleep architecture and ventilatory parameters: Results of the Tab-OSA cross-sectional observational study
Cross-sectional study with polysomnography. Active smokers and users of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) showed a marked reduction in N3 deep sleep (in NRT users approx. −32 minutes compared to never-smokers). Former smokers had normalized N3 values again → the effect appears to be nicotine-related and reversible after cessation. NRT users also had more microarousals and subjective sleep complaints (possibly due to nighttime nicotine decline).
Age- and dose-specific effects of caffeine on sleep: A meta-analysis of controlled crossover trials
Meta-analysis of 22 crossover studies. Caffeine reduced total sleep time by approximately 35 minutes, sleep efficiency, and the proportion of deep sleep. Effects were particularly pronounced in younger individuals and at higher doses.
The effect of alcohol on subsequent sleep in healthy adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Meta-analysis of 27 studies. Alcohol delays REM sleep onset and reduces REM duration. Even low doses (≤ 0.50 g/kg ≈ 2 standard drinks) disrupt REM sleep; disruption increases with dose. High doses (≥ 0.85 g/kg ≈ 5 standard drinks) shorten sleep onset latency and latency to deep sleep (N3). Effects on total sleep time, sleep efficiency, and wake after sleep onset were inconsistent with large uncertainty.
The Effects of a Bacopa monnieri Extract (Bacumen®) on Cognition, Stress, and Fatigue in Healthy Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
12-week RCT in 101 adults (40–70) with self-reported memory and attention problems. 300 mg/day Bacumen®. No significant improvement in primary cognitive outcomes, but the Bacopa group showed greater reduction in self-reported stress reactivity and lower fatigue and stress after a cognitively demanding task.
Effect of Hydroponically Grown Red Panax Ginseng on Perceived Stress Level, Emotional Processing, and Cognitive Functions in Moderately Stressed Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
RCT in 149 moderately stressed adults. 200 mg/day hydroponically grown Red Panax Ginseng significantly reduced Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and negative affect scores vs placebo. Cognitive performance (spatial planning) also improved.
Effect of Saffron Versus Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) in Treatment of Depression and Anxiety: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Saffron was non-inferior to SSRIs for depression and anxiety. Simultaneously, saffron had significantly fewer side effects. Authors see saffron as a possible alternative to SSRIs with a better side-effect profile.
Global burden of cutaneous melanoma incidence attributable to ultraviolet radiation in 2022
GLOBOCAN plus exposure model. ~267,000 melanomas UV-attributable. In fair-skinned high-incidence regions >95% of cases.
The association between alcohol consumption and the severity of male androgenic alopecia in Chinese participants: A single-center cross-sectional study
Cross-sectional study in Chinese men. Alcohol consumption was positively associated with the severity of male androgenetic alopecia.
Long sleep duration and good sleep quality reduced incident peptic ulcer disease in a large Taiwanese population follow-up study
Taiwan Biobank, 22,561 without pre-existing ulcer, ~43 months. Questionnaire: duration and quality. >7 h vs. <7 h: incident ulcer HR 0.771. Per extra hour HR 0.933. Quality vs. very poor: poor HR 0.649, normal 0.611, good 0.507, very good 0.493. Longer and better sleep independently protective. Whether improving sleep directly lowers incidence remains open.
Gastroesophageal disease risk and inhalational exposure a systematic review and meta-analysis
111 studies on inhalation (cigarette, water pipe, particulate matter). Pooled: esophagitis 1.32, GERD 1.71, peptic ulcer 1.21, esophageal cancer 1.83, gastric cancer 1.71. Barrett not significant.
Cognitive and affective effects of L-Theanine: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 31 randomized trials
Meta-analysis of 31 RCTs (n = 1,168). A single 200 mg dose reduced acute stress only modestly (SMD 0.31) and was strongly influenced by studies with high bias risk. Positive effects were seen on attention (Choice Reaction Time) and in some analyses on depressive symptoms. Anxiety effects were overall inconsistent.
Comparative efficacy and safety of exercise modalities in knee osteoarthritis: systematic review and network meta-analysis
Network meta-analysis. Aerobic exercise appears to be the overall most advantageous form for pain reduction and functional improvement in knee osteoarthritis. Other modalities (strength, mind-body, neuromuscular) also provide benefits.
Is ibuprofen associated with upper gastrointestinal bleeding? A systematic review and meta-analysis
7 RCTs + 10 observational, 89,522 people, mostly 1200–1800 mg, median ~1.5 weeks. Vs. non-users: UGIB OR 2.51. Vs. paracetamol (without outlier): OR 0.96. Vs. other unselective NSAIDs: not higher. Certainty very low.
Poor sleep quality (PSQ) prevalence in patients with functional dyspepsia (FD): a systematic review and meta-analysis
7 studies, 2138 FD patients. Pooled prevalence of poor sleep 57.2% (I² 98.4%, publication bias). Vs. healthy OR 2.39. Authors: read with caution due to heterogeneity; clarify anxiety/depression as confounders.
Impact of Chronic Moderate Psychological Stress on Skin Aging: Exploratory Clinical Study and Cellular Functioning
Only the clinical part: moderately vs lightly chronically stressed. Worse barrier, fewer antioxidants, more fine lines/microrelief (about +33%). Industry, exploratory, no large independent wrinkle RCT.
A comprehensive systematic review on the efficacy, safety, tolerability, and relapse rates of modern procedural therapies for inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne vulgaris
Review: 30% salicylic acid peel was among the most effective chemical peels for acne (85% improvement rate).
The risk of ultraviolet exposure for melanoma in Fitzpatrick skin types I–IV: A 20-year systematic review with meta-analysis for sunburns
26 human studies. Sunburn history: adjusted OR 1.23 for melanoma (unadjusted 1.66). 11/13 burn studies positive.
Efficacy and safety of supramolecular salicylic acid in the treatment of papulopustular rosacea: a multicentre randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled superiority study
RCT: 30% supramolecular salicylic acid was significantly more effective than placebo in papulopustular rosacea and well tolerated.
Efficacy of oral probiotics in patients with acne: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials
Meta-analysis: oral probiotics showed significant improvement of acne versus placebo.
Prebiotics, Probiotics, and Postbiotics for Acne Vulgaris: A Systematic Review
Review: oral probiotics and postbiotics showed benefit in treating acne.
Impact of Stress on the Prevalence of Acne Among Medical Students in the Middle East: A Systematic Review
11 human studies, 3063 students. Acne prevalence ~64%. 9/11 studies: significant association stress ↔ severity/frequency.
Oral Probiotics in Acne vulgaris: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trials
Meta-analysis of double-blind RCTs: oral probiotics significantly reduced acne severity.
Effects of a Valerian-Hops Extract Combination (Ze 91019) on Sleep Duration and Daytime Cognitive and Psychological Parameters in Occasional Insomnia: A Randomized Controlled Feasibility Trial
RCT: valerian-hops (Ze 91019) significantly increased sleep duration (~22 min/night) in occasional insomnia without affecting daytime performance.
Effects of exercise on sleep quality in general population: Meta-analysis and systematic review
Recent meta-analysis in the general population (non-athletes). Exercise improves subjective sleep quality and objective sleep efficiency. Different exercise types were compared and ranked.
Examining the Influence of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on Performance, Recovery, and Injury Management for Health Optimization: A Systematic Review Focused on Military Service Members
Systematic review (focus on military personnel). Omega-3 improves recovery and reduces inflammation, but shows inconsistent or neutral effects on direct performance and strength gains in trained individuals. Conclusion: Good for recovery, neutral for pure performance gains in already trained athletes. Limitations: High heterogeneity.
Evidence construction of Silibinin capsules against alcoholic liver disease based on a meta-analysis and systematic review
15 RCTs, 1221 ALD patients. vs. without silibinin: ALT SMD −1.16, AST −1.56, GGT −1.48, bilirubin −1.14, TG/TC down. PT n.s. "Effective rate" OR 3.60. Predominantly Asian trials; AEs mild (GI/insomnia).
No Ergogenic Effect of Caffeine or Sodium Bicarbonate on Resistance Exercise Performance: A Double-Blind Crossover Study with Sex-Based Analysis
RCT with resistance-trained young adults. Sodium bicarbonate (0.3 g/kg) showed no significant effect on repetitions, strength or EMG across multiple sets. Conclusion: Neutral for acute strength and endurance performance in resistance training.
Are alterations needed in Silybum marianum (Silymarin) administration practices? A novel outlook and meta-analysis on randomized trials targeting liver injury
55 studies, 3545 participants. AST SMD −0.670, ALT −0.912; ALP n.s. Stronger under age 50 and with BMI < 30. Effect in NAFLD and viral hepatitis; no clear effect in DILI and alcoholic liver disease.
The Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Upper- and Lower-Body Strength and Power: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
69 studies, 1937 participants. With resistance training: bench press +1.43 kg, squat +5.64 kg, vertical jump +1.48 cm, Wingate peak +47.81 W. Handgrip and leg press n.s. Younger subjects and men showed clearer benefits.
Efficacy of fish oil supplementation on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease: a meta-analysis
Zhou et al., 7 RCTs, 439 MASLD patients. TG SMD −0.40, AST −0.29, HOMA-IR −2.06, waist −0.31. ALT, GGT, BMI, HDL, LDL, TC n.s. PROSPERO CRD42024513246.
Silymarin for adults with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease
17 RCTs, 2069 MASLD patients. Benefit and harm unclear. ALT possibly −7.21 U/L – evidence very uncertain. No robust data on mortality or quality of life.
Implications of sleep loss or sleep deprivation on muscle strength: a systematic review
Sleep deprivation has demonstrable negative effects on strength performance, especially with repeated nights of insufficient sleep.
Efficacy of combined undenatured type II collagen and hydrolysed collagen supplementation in knee osteoarthritis: a randomised controlled trial
Combination of UC-II and hydrolysed collagen showed positive effects in knee OA.
Does One Shot Work? The Acute Impact of a Single Taurine Dose on Exercise Performance: A Meta‑Analytic Review
Meta-analysis of 23 RCTs (308 participants). Acute taurine intake (1–6 g single dose) shows small to moderate improvements in overall performance (g = 0.25), especially in strength/power, agility and endurance. Stronger effects in men and ~1 hour before training. Conclusion: Taurine has potential as an acute ergogenic aid for strength and athletic training. Limitations: GRADE low to very low, heterogeneity.
The effect of taurine supplementation on markers of muscle damage and muscle pain in an athletic population: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials assessed using the grading of recommendations, assessment, development, and evaluation approach
Systematic review + meta-analysis of 7 RCTs (165 athletes). Taurine significantly reduces CK values (WMD −78.28 IU/L after 24 h) and LDH as well as VAS pain scores after 96 h. Conclusion: Taurine is effective for reducing muscle damage and pain in athletes. Limitations: High heterogeneity, GRADE low certainty.
The impact of choline supplementation on oxidative stress and clinical outcomes among patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a randomized controlled study
39 on PC 2400 mg/day + standard care vs. 40 standard care only, 12 weeks. CAP 304 vs. 332 dB/m, fibrosis 5.3 vs. 6.8 kPa, TBARS 1.9 vs. 3.8, leptin 1.3 vs. 2.1, ALT/AST p < 0.001 / 0.004, TG 133 vs. 158. Single-blind. Positive.
Magnesium Bisglycinate Supplementation in Healthy Adults Reporting Poor Sleep Quality: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
RCT in healthy adults with poor sleep. Magnesium bisglycinate significantly improved insomnia severity and subjective sleep quality.
Therapeutic effects of curcumin supplementation on liver enzymes of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
Ebrahimzadeh et al., 14 studies. ALT −8.72 (12 effects), AST −6.35 (13 effects). ALP −4.71 n.s.; longer intake partly better for ALP. High I². Positive (ALT/AST).
The effects of urolithin A supplementation on muscle strength, muscle mass and physical performance in humans - a systematic review
Systematic review. Consistent moderate effects on muscle strength and endurance, but no clear effects on muscle mass (hypertrophy) or long-term maximal strength in young elite athletes. Conclusion: Positive for mitochondrial support and endurance, neutral for pure mass gains.
Curcumin supplementation effect on liver enzymes in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: a GRADE-assessed systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
15 RCTs, 905. Curcumin: ALT −4.10, AST −3.27 IU/L, ALP −0.49 n.s. Curcumin + piperine: ALT −3.79 and AST −1.1 n.s. CRD42023448231. Positive (curcumin alone).
Exogenous Melatonin and Sleep Quality: A Scoping Review of Systematic Reviews with Meta-Analyses
Scoping review of meta-analyses. Positive effects on sleep quality confirmed across multiple meta-analyses.
The effect of gut microbiome-targeted therapies in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
37 RCTs, 1921 patients. Probiotics: ALT −5.09, AST −7.81, liver stiffness −0.37, BMI −1.84, HOMA-IR −0.7. Synbiotics: ALT −7.38, AST −13.32, LSM −1.00, CAP −39.34. Synbiotics stronger for stiffness. PROSPERO CRD42023450093.
The effect of Rhodiola rosea supplementation on endurance performance and related biomarkers: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Meta-analysis of 26 RCTs (668 participants). Rhodiola rosea significantly improves VO₂max (ES 0.32), time to exhaustion (ES 0.38) and time trial performance. Also reduces muscle damage (CK) and oxidative stress. Conclusion: Positive for endurance and recovery, also relevant for HIIT and muscular endurance. Limitations: Study heterogeneity.
Topical Zinc Oxide Nanoparticle Formulations for Acne Vulgaris: A Systematic Review of Pre-Clinical and Early-Phase Clinical Evidence
ZnO nanoparticles show strong antibacterial and skin-repairing effects for acne in preclinical and early clinical data.
Effects of cetylated fatty acids on knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of real-world evidence
Both oral and topical CFA showed positive effects in knee OA.
Impact of topical cetylated fatty acid cream on hand osteoarthritis: a randomized, double-blind clinical trial
Topical CFA cream clearly reduced pain in hand OA after 6 weeks.
Caffeine and taurine: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of their individual and combined effects on physical capacity, cognitive function, and physiological markers
Network meta-analysis. Taurine alone and especially combined with caffeine improves anaerobic capacity (g = 0.46) and reaction time. Conclusion: Good evidence for taurine (solo or combined) in high-intensity and strength training. Limitations: Very low to moderate evidence quality.
Testosterone Therapy and Associated Rates of Tendon Tear
Cohort study on the association of testosterone therapy (TRT) and tendon ruptures. 410 TRT users vs. 14,474 nonusers. Men on TRT had significantly higher rupture rates (3.6% vs. 1.3%; OR 2.88, 95% CI). The increased risk applied to both biceps and Achilles tendon ruptures. Negative.
Testosterone Therapy and Associated Rates of Tendon Tear
Cohort study on the association of testosterone therapy (TRT) and tendon ruptures. 410 TRT users vs. 14,474 nonusers. Men on TRT had significantly higher rupture rates (3.6% vs. 1.3%; OR 2.88, 95% CI). The increased risk applied to both biceps and Achilles tendon ruptures. Negative.
Effects of Collagen Supplements on Skin Aging: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Meta-analysis of 23 RCTs. In the overall analysis, significant improvements were seen in hydration, elasticity, and wrinkles. However, these effects disappeared in high-quality studies and those without industry funding. The authors currently see insufficient evidence for efficacy in skin aging.
Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind Assessment of Supramolecular Bakuchiol and Terminalia Chebula Extract for Facial Photoaging in Chinese Sensitive Skin Population
Bakuchiol significantly improved wrinkles, elasticity, and skin quality in sensitive skin.
International Society of Sports Nutrition Position Stand: Long-Chain Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids
Official ISSN position stand. 2–6 g EPA+DHA/day can improve recovery, reduce inflammation and support muscle protein synthesis. Conclusion: Omega-3 is a strong recovery supplement for athletes. Limitations: No dramatic direct performance gains with optimal nutrition.
The combined effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation and exercise training on body composition and cardiometabolic health in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Meta-analysis of 21 studies (673 participants). Omega-3 + training reduces fat mass (−1.05 kg, p=0.01) and improves lower-body strength (SMD 0.42, p=0.04) versus training alone. Conclusion: Omega-3 amplifies some effects of resistance training on body composition and lower-body strength. Limitations: Moderate evidence quality, heterogeneous populations.
Ferulic Acid Use for Skin Applications: A Systematic Review
In 18 human studies, ferulic acid (alone or in combination) improved skin erythema, pigmentation, hydration, elasticity, and texture. The effects occurred in both healthy and damaged skin.
Taurine in Sports: Impact on Athletic Performance, Muscle Recovery and Neurological Function in Athletes – A Narrative Review
Narrative review focused on athletes. Taurine (1–6 g) improves recovery, reduces oxidative stress (CK, LDH, MDA) and supports neurological function (pain perception, cognitive focus) in high-intensity training. Conclusion: Good evidence for recovery and performance in strength and athletic training. Limitations: Narrative form, more high-quality RCTs needed.
Efficacy and Safety of Boswellia serrata and Apium graveolens L. Extract Against Knee Osteoarthritis and Cartilage Degeneration: A Randomized, Double-blind, Multicenter, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Boswellia extract showed positive effects on pain and cartilage degeneration in knee OA.
Effect of 5-HTP supplementation on sleep quality in older adults: A randomized controlled trial
12-week RCT with 100 mg 5-HTP daily in older adults: improved sleep quality (especially poor sleepers) and positive gut flora changes.
Clinical Efficacy and Tolerability of Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis L.) in the Management of Anxiety, Depression, and Sleep Quality: A Narrative Review
Narrative review: lemon balm shows anxiolytic, antidepressive and sleep-promoting effects including improved sleep quality.
Efficacy and safety of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation for anxiety symptoms: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
23 trials with 2,189 participants. Per 1 g omega-3/day a moderate reduction of anxiety symptoms (SMD –0.70). Greatest improvement around 2 g/day. Below 2 g/day the effect was not significant. Good tolerability.
GABA Supplementation, Increased Heart-Rate Variability, Emotional Response, Sleep Efficiency and Reduced Depression in Sedentary Overweight Women Undergoing Physical Exercise: Placebo-Controlled, Randomized Clinical Trial
RCT: GABA improved sleep quality (PSQI) and sleep efficiency and reduced depression in overweight women undergoing exercise.
Examining the Effects of Supplemental Magnesium on Self-Reported Anxiety and Sleep Quality: A Systematic Review
Recent review. 5 of 7 studies with anxiety outcomes reported improvements. Magnesium appears useful especially in individuals with low magnesium status for mild anxiety and sleep problems. Heterogeneity of forms, dosages and additives limits clear conclusions.
Standardized Extract of Valeriana officinalis Improves Overall Sleep Quality in Human Subjects with Sleep Complaints: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Clinical Study
RCT: valerian extract significantly improved subjective and objective sleep parameters in people with mild insomnia.
The effect of tart cherry juice compared to a sports drink on endurance performance and recovery
An RCT comparing tart cherry juice to a sports drink found no significant improvements in performance, substrate oxidation, or recovery. Direct performance enhancement may be limited when using juice instead of concentrated extracts.
Assessment of Urolithin A effects on muscle endurance, strength, inflammation, oxidative stress, and protein metabolism in male athletes with resistance training: an 8-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study
RCT with 20 resistance-trained male athletes, 1 g/day urolithin A for 8 weeks during resistance training. Significant improvements in maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) and repetitions to failure (muscle endurance). Minor gains in 1RM (non-significant). Reduced inflammation. Conclusion: Positive for strength endurance and recovery in trained athletes.
Association between nighttime sleep duration and quality with knee osteoarthritis in middle-aged and older Chinese: A longitudinal cohort study
<6 h/night vs 7–<8 h: incident knee OA OR 1.73. Many restless nights (5–7/week) OR 1.88.
A Preliminary Investigation of Turkesterone: It's Not Deca
RCT with 31 active men and women (500 mg turkesterone/day for 4 weeks). No significant effect on body composition (lean mass, fat mass) compared to placebo. Conclusion: Turkesterone has no measurable effect on muscle mass or body fat.
Impact of Anabolic Steroids on Tendons: A Narrative Review
Narrative review on the effects of AAS on tendons. Experimental and clinical studies show that steroids alter tendon structure, reduce collagen cross-linking, and increase stiffness. Tendons become thicker but more brittle. AAS abuse is associated with increased risk of tendon rupture. Negative.
The Effects of Multiple Acute Turkesterone Doses on Indirect Measures of Hypertrophy and Metabolic Measures: A Preliminary Investigation
Study with 11 men (acute doses of 1000 mg and 2000 mg). No significant effect on IGF-1, RMR, or metabolic markers. Conclusion: No clear anabolic or metabolic effects.
Effects of vitamin D3 supplementation on strength of lower and upper extremities in athletes: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Updated meta-analysis. Vitamin D3 supplementation significantly raises 25(OH)D levels (MD 14.76 ng/ml, p < 0.0001). Overall effect on muscle strength is not significant (SMD 0.18, p=0.08), but there is a significant effect on quadriceps strength (SMD 0.57, p=0.04). Conclusion: Potential benefit for muscle strength in athletes, especially when baseline levels are low. Limitations: Heterogeneity, limited number of studies, not all strength measures significantly improved.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials on the effects of glutamine supplementation on gut permeability in adults
10 studies, 352 adults, mixed diseases. Overall no significant effect on permeability. In the subgroup with high doses (>30 g/day) and short duration a reduction was seen. Heterogeneous populations.
Impact of resistant starch type 3 on fecal microbiota and stool frequency in Thai adults with chronic constipation
12-week RCT in chronic constipation. RS3 increased Bifidobacterium, Prevotella, Akkermansia and Megamonas and improved stool frequency and consistency.
Role of vitamin D supplement adjunct to topical benzoyl peroxide in the treatment of acne vulgaris
RCT: weekly vitamin D2 adjunct to benzoyl peroxide significantly reduced relapses of inflammatory acne lesions.
Vitamin D Supplementation Does Not Enhance Gains in Muscle Strength and Lean Body Mass or Influence Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Vitamin D-Insufficient Middle-Aged Men Engaged in Resistance Training
RCT in vitamin-D-insufficient middle-aged men during resistance training. Supplementation markedly raised levels (2.6-fold) but did not improve muscle strength (1RM in 7 exercises), lean mass or cardiorespiratory fitness versus placebo (both groups benefited equally from training). Conclusion: Neutral for strength and mass gains. Limitations: Specific population (middle-aged, insufficiency), low compliance with diet protocols, relatively short intervention (12 weeks).
Fructooligosaccharides for Relieving Functional Constipation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
17 RCTs, 713 participants. FOS increased stool frequency, softened stool and reduced straining and pain. Mild bloating was common.
Impact of Anabolic Steroids on Tendons: A Narrative Review
Narrative review on the effects of AAS on tendons. Experimental and clinical studies show that steroids alter tendon structure, reduce collagen cross-linking, and increase stiffness. Tendons become thicker but more brittle. AAS abuse is associated with increased risk of tendon rupture. Negative.
Effects of Vitamin D Supplementation in Elite Athletes: A Systematic Review
Systematic review in elite athletes. Vitamin D supplementation shows benefits for aerobic endurance (in 2 of 3 studies) and anaerobic power/strength (in 5 of 7 studies) in athletes with low baseline levels. Sprint speed was mostly unchanged. Conclusion: Positive for performance (especially aerobic endurance and anaerobic power/strength) in deficiency. Limitations: Mixed results depending on baseline level, limited studies per outcome.
Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Clinical Study of Passiflora incarnata in Participants With Stress and Sleep Problems
Double-blind, placebo-controlled study with standardized Passiflora extract (SIVI). Significant reduction in Perceived Stress Scale scores and improvement in sleep duration and general psychological health (GHQ-12) vs placebo. No adverse effects.
Effect of Current and Former Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid Abuse on the Patellar Tendon
Cross-sectional study on the effect of current and former AAS abuse on the patellar tendon. Contrary to the hypothesis, no significant structural damage to the patellar tendon was found in AAS users. However, AAS was associated with more upper body tendon injuries. Neutral for patellar tendon, but confirms upper body-specific risks. Neutral.
Adverse Effects of Anabolic Androgenic Steroid Abuse in Athletes and Physically Active Individuals: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Systematic review and meta-analysis on adverse effects of AAS abuse in athletes. AAS use was significantly associated with musculoskeletal damage including tendon ruptures and joint problems. Additionally increased risk for cardiovascular, endocrine, and psychiatric side effects. Negative.
Effects of chronic betaine supplementation on exercise performance: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 17 studies (317 participants). Chronic betaine supplementation (mostly 2.5–5 g/day for ≥7 days) significantly improves maximal strength (SMD 0.47), especially lower-body strength (SMD 0.49) and vertical jump (SMD 0.36). Betaine has positive ergogenic potential for strength and jump performance. Limitations: Moderate heterogeneity.
Effect of Current and Former Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid Abuse on the Patellar Tendon
Cross-sectional study on the effect of current and former AAS abuse on the patellar tendon. Contrary to the hypothesis, no significant structural damage to the patellar tendon was found in AAS users. However, AAS was associated with more upper body tendon injuries. Neutral for patellar tendon, but confirms upper body-specific risks. Neutral.
Effect of a Low-Glycemic-Load Diet and Dietary Counseling on Acne Vulgaris Severity Among Female Patients Aged 15 to 35 Years
50 women (15–35 years), 12 weeks, 25 counseling + low-GL vs 25 control. GL score from questionnaire: 0–35 low, 35–55 medium, 55–75 very high. Control after 1 month: 70% still score >55, matching more severe acne. Intervention group: high GL score 60% → 40%; after 3 months 45% in low-GL range vs 10% in control. Mean acne severity 2.68 → 1.56. More water drinking. Authors: counseling plus low-GL diet can reduce severity and lesions.
Effects of Melissa officinalis Phytosome on Sleep Quality: Results of a Prospective, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, and Cross-Over Study
RCT with Melissa phytosome: significant improvement in sleep quality (ISI), increased deep sleep (SWS); 87% reported subjective improvement.
Effects of vitamin D and/or calcium intervention on sleep quality in individuals with prediabetes: a post hoc analysis of a randomized controlled trial
Post-hoc analysis of an RCT: vitamin D (±calcium) improved sleep quality in individuals with prediabetes.
Secondhand smoke is associated with peptic ulcer disease and gastroesophageal reflux disease in non-smokers in a large Taiwanese population study
88,297 never-smokers, Taiwan Biobank. Secondhand smoke ↔ ulcer OR 1.17, GERD 1.13. ≥1 h/week: ulcer 1.23, GERD 1.20.
Dose-response analysis between alcohol consumption and psoriasis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
48 studies, 1,702,847 people, 24 countries. Alcohol ↔ psoriasis OR 1.47 (1.27–1.70). Men OR 1.84, women 1.22 (n.s.). Eight studies with dose: +4% odds per extra gram of alcohol/day. Most marked above >45 g/day (about 3.2 drinks).
A Randomized Clinical Trial to Evaluate the Efficacy of an Oral Probiotic in Acne Vulgaris
RCT: oral probiotics led to a significant reduction of acne lesions.
Adverse Effects of Anabolic Androgenic Steroid Abuse in Athletes and Physically Active Individuals: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Systematic review and meta-analysis on adverse effects of AAS abuse in athletes. AAS use was significantly associated with musculoskeletal damage including tendon ruptures and joint problems. Additionally increased risk for cardiovascular, endocrine, and psychiatric side effects. Negative.
A systematic review of the efficacy and safety of turmeric in the treatment of digestive disorders
26 studies on IBD, IBS, dyspepsia, GERD and ulcer. Turmeric is considered safe. Possible efficacy in IBD and IBS; inconsistent for other diagnoses. Many studies had a high risk of bias.
Rhodiola rosea as an adaptogen to enhance exercise performance: A review of the literature
Narrative review focusing on recent studies. Higher doses (1,500–2,400 mg/day) show positive effects on sprint performance, bench press velocity and anaerobic power. Conclusion: Potential as an adaptogen for strength and high-intensity training.
Effects of 15% Azelaic Acid Gel in the Management of Post-Inflammatory Erythema and Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation in Acne Vulgaris
Study: 15% azelaic acid gel significantly improved post-inflammatory erythema and hyperpigmentation in acne with good tolerability.
The Effect of Oral Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) Supplementation on Anaerobic Exercise in Healthy Resistance-Trained Individuals: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials demonstrated that 400 mg of oral ATP supplementation significantly increases maximum strength gains in resistance-trained individuals.
Exercise for osteoarthritis of the knee
Updated Cochrane review with 139 studies (over 12,000 participants). Land-based exercise probably improves pain, physical function and quality of life in knee osteoarthritis (low to moderate certainty of evidence). Effects are clinically relevant, even if they do not always clearly exceed the minimal important difference. Exercise is safe.
Effects of different types of exercise on sleep quality based on Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index in middle-aged and older adults: a network meta-analysis
Network meta-analysis. Aerobic exercise was most effective for the overall PSQI score. Yoga was particularly strong for sleep disturbances, sleep efficiency, sleep duration and daytime fatigue.
Association of smoking with knee osteoarthritis structural defects and symptoms: an individual participant data meta-analysis
OAI, MOST, CHECK at participant level. No difference between smoking groups in structure or symptoms. Refutes the 'protection for the joint'.
Dose-response association between cigarette smoking and gastric cancer risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis
205 studies. Current vs. never: gastric cancer RR 1.53, former 1.30. Cardia 2.08, distal 1.48. Rising up to 20 cigarettes/day (RR 1.69), then plateau. Duration linear; 30 years after quitting RR 0.65.
Safety and Efficacy of AlphaWave L-Theanine Supplementation for 28 Days in Healthy Adults with Moderate Stress: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
28-day study with 400 mg L-theanine/day in adults with moderate stress. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) decreased, light sleep decreased and cognitive attention improved. Salivary cortisol showed no significant group difference. Tolerability was good.
Effects of zinc supplementation on sleep quality in humans: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Systematic review of 8 RCTs: zinc (10–73 mg/day over 4–48 weeks) significantly improved sleep quality in the majority of studies.
The Effect of Tongkat Ali Supplementation on Body Composition in Exercise-Trained Males and Females
RCT with 33 trained men and women (400 mg/day, 4 weeks). No significant effect on body composition, handgrip strength, mood or sleep. Conclusion: No additional benefit in already trained athletes. Limitations: Short duration, trained population.
Efficacy evaluation of standardized Boswellia serrata extract (Aflapin®) in osteoarthritis: A systematic review and sub-group meta-analysis study
Standardized Boswellia extract (Aflapin) showed good efficacy in OA.
The Interactions between Smoking and Sleep
Review of 151 studies. Smoking disrupts sleep architecture by reducing deep sleep (SWS) and REM sleep and worsens subjective sleep quality. There is an association with insomnia, parasomnias, arousals, bruxism, and restless legs syndrome. Poor sleep quality also makes smoking cessation more difficult.
Efficacy of Extracts of Oleogum Resin of Boswellia in the Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Boswellia extracts improved symptoms in knee OA.
Effects of different natural products in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease-A network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Liu et al., 37 RCTs, 2509 NAFLD patients. Artichoke leaf extract ranked by SUCRA 99.1% for AST, 88.2% for ALT, 88.9% for LDL. Ahead of silymarin, curcumin, resveratrol. Only 2 ALE trials in the network.
Effects of silymarin use on liver enzymes and metabolic factors in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
9 trials. ALT −17.12, AST −12.56, TG −22.60; HDL +2.13. GGT, TC, LDL, HOMA-IR, BMI n.s. One study: fibrosis improved.
Effects of Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) on stress and anxiety: A systematic review and meta-analysis
9 RCTs with 558 participants. Ashwagandha significantly reduced: Perceived Stress Scale (PSS): MD −4.72, Hamilton Anxiety Scale: MD −2.19, serum cortisol: MD −2.58 compared to placebo. Only mild to moderate side effects were reported.
Effects of Withania somnifera Extract in Chronically Stressed Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
8-week RCT with three doses (125, 250 and 500 mg). Investigated in chronically stressed adults – positive effects on stress parameters.
Oral Hyaluronic Acid in Osteoarthritis and Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review
Oral hyaluronic acid showed positive effects in OA and low back pain (11 studies, 597 patients).
Effects of Creatine Supplementation and Resistance Training on Muscle Strength Gains in Adults <50 Years of Age: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
23 studies (447 men, 40 women, 1 mixed). vs. placebo plus resistance training: upper body WMD +4.43 kg, lower body +11.35 kg (both p < 0.001). Significant in men, n.s. in women. Trend toward higher doses for the lower body.
A meta-analysis study on the association between smoking and male pattern hair loss
Meta-analysis. The risk of androgenetic alopecia is significantly increased in men who smoke at least 10 cigarettes per day. This is the first meta-analysis to quantitatively examine the relationship between the extent of smoking and male hair loss.
Exploring the association between alcohol consumption and androgenic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Systematic review and meta-analysis. Alcohol drinkers had an increased odds ratio for androgenetic alopecia compared to non-drinkers (OR 1.40; 95% CI 0.95–2.06). In subgroups of cross-sectional and case-control studies the association was stronger and statistically significant. Heterogeneity was high. There is a possible positive association between alcohol consumption and AGA.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to evaluate plant-based omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease patient biomarkers and parameters
6 RCTs, 362 NAFLD patients. Plant-based omega-3: ALT −8.04 IU/L, TG −44.51 mg/dL; BMI, waist, and weight better with lifestyle changes. PROSPERO CRD42021251980.
Human Clinical Trials Using Topical Bakuchiol Formulations for the Treatment of Skin Disorders: A Systematic Review
Systematic review of 15 human studies on topical bakuchiol. The studies suggest positive effects on skin aging, but are methodologically heterogeneous, often open-label without control group, and partly in combination therapies. There is a high risk of bias; further well-designed RCTs are needed.
The Role of Linoleic Acid in Skin and Hair Health: A Review
Confirms the comedolytic and sebum-regulating effects of linoleic acid for acne.
Efficacy of topical treatments for mild-to-moderate acne
Comparative overview of topical treatments for mild-to-moderate acne.
Clinical Studies Using Topical Melatonin
Review of clinical studies on topical melatonin (including for hair growth). The authors note that many studies have design limitations or investigate combination preparations. One study suggests a possible benefit in certain forms of alopecia in women. Further well-controlled studies are called for.
Biotin for Hair Loss: Teasing Out the Evidence
Current review. The highest quality study (double-blind, placebo-controlled) found no difference between biotin and placebo for hair growth. Other studies had design weaknesses. The authors state: The popularity of biotin is in stark contrast to the scientific literature. Its efficacy as a hair preparation is not supported by high-quality studies.
Exploring the potential of omega-3 fatty acids in acne patients: A prospective intervention study
Many acne patients have an omega-3 deficiency; supplementation improves the omega-3 index and may positively influence acne.
Micronutrients and Androgenetic Alopecia: A Systematic Review
Review on micronutrients in AGA. Zinc (alongside vitamin D, iron, and others) appears to play an important role. Deficiencies are associated with increased AGA risk; supplementation may potentially support hair growth and prevent hair loss.
Serum 25 hydroxyvitamin D in non-scarring alopecia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Meta-analysis. Patients with non-scarring alopecias (including AGA, female pattern hair loss, alopecia areata, and telogen effluvium) had significantly lower serum 25(OH)D levels and a markedly higher rate of vitamin D deficiency compared to healthy controls. The authors recommend checking vitamin D levels and supplementing if necessary.
Micronutrients and Androgenetic Alopecia: A Systematic Review
Systematic review on micronutrients in AGA. Vitamin D is among the nutrients that play a critical role in hair growth and maintenance. Deficiencies are associated with increased AGA risk; supplementation may potentially support hair growth and prevent hair loss.
Dietary supplementation with Lactium and L-theanine alleviates sleep disturbance in adults: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study
The combination of Lactium and L-theanine improves sleep quality in adults.
Six-month supplementation with high dose coenzyme Q10 improves liver steatosis, endothelial, vascular and myocardial function in patients with metabolic-dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease: a randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Vrentzos et al., 60 MASLD, 240 mg vs. placebo, 6 months. CoQ10 vs. baseline: CAP 280.9 vs. 304.8 dB/m, PWV 9.5 vs. 10.2 m/s, FMD 6.1 vs. 4.3%, GLS −19.6 vs. −18.8%, CFR 3.1 vs. 2.8. Placebo unchanged. NCT05941910. Positive.
Mixture of Rhodiola rosea and Nelumbo nucifera Extracts Ameliorates Sleep Quality of Adults with Sleep Disturbance
RCT in adults (20–65 years) with subthreshold insomnia. 750 mg RNE daily for 2 weeks. Significant improvements in ISI and PSQI, 57% reduction in wake after sleep onset, improved sleep efficiency and quality of life (SF-36).
Effect of omega-3 fatty acids on sleep: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs. Most studies show positive effects of omega-3 (especially DHA) on sleep quality, particularly in healthy adults and those with existing deficiency.
Effects of curcumin/turmeric supplementation on the liver enzymes, lipid profiles, glycemic index, and anthropometric indices in non-alcoholic fatty liver patients: An umbrella meta-analysis
11 meta-analyses, 99 RCTs, 5546. AST ES −1.072, ALT −0.625, TG −0.469 n.s., HOMA-IR −0.291, BMI −0.205, waist −1.290. GGT, ALP, TC, LDL, HDL, FBS, HbA1c, weight n.s. Positive (enzymes/IR/waist).
Examining the Effects of Supplemental Magnesium on Self-Reported Sleep Quality in Adults with Poor Sleep
RCT in adults with poor sleep. Positive effects on sleep quality, especially in those with low magnesium status.
Administration of silymarin in NAFLD/NASH: A systematic review and meta-analysis
26 RCTs, 2375 patients. TC/TG/LDL and fasting insulin down, HDL up. ALT −12.39, AST −10.97. Fatty liver index/score improved. Steatosis OR 3.25. HOMA-IR CI crosses 0.
Vitamin E improves serum markers and histology in adults with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease: Systematic review and meta-analysis
7–8 studies. ALT SMD −0.82, AST −0.68. Steatosis MD −0.60, inflammation −0.34, ballooning −0.32. MASH resolution RR 1.9. Fibrosis −0.23 n.s.
Double-blind, Randomized Trial on the Effectiveness of Acetylhexapeptide-3 Cream and Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 Cream for Crow's Feet
Both peptides significantly improved crow's feet and skin quality. Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (PP4) showed better results than Acetylhexapeptide-3.
Curcumin and proton pump inhibitors for functional dyspepsia: a randomised, double blind controlled trial
Multicentre RCT. Curcumin (2×250 mg, 4× daily) was comparable to omeprazole 20 mg for symptom relief. Combination brought no extra benefit. No serious adverse effects.
The Effects of Two Weeks of Oral PeakATP® Supplementation on Performance during a Three-Minute All out Test
This RCT in trained subjects found that 400 mg of PEAK ATP for two weeks plus an acute dose improved some parameters but showed no significant differences in peak power, end power, or fatigue index during anaerobic testing.
Effects of probiotic supplementation in adult with atopic dermatitis: a systematic review with meta-analysis
Positive effects in adults with atopic dermatitis.
The effect of melatonin on irritable bowel syndrome patients with and without sleep disorders: a randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled trial
Comparison of IBS with and without sleep disorder. Melatonin can affect symptoms in both groups; benefit is not tied only to sleep.
The efficacy of exogenous melatonin supplement in ameliorating irritable bowel syndrome severity: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
4 RCTs, 115 patients. Melatonin improved overall severity (Hedges' g = 0.75), pain and quality of life vs placebo. Bloating and sleep quality were not significant. Tolerability like placebo. Typical dose often 3 mg in the evening.
The effect of fish oil supplementation on resistance training-induced adaptations
RCT with 21 young adults (10 weeks). Fish oil (3.85 g EPA+DHA/day) + resistance training led to significantly greater gains in upper-body 1RM and relative lower-body strength. Conclusion: Positive for strength gains in resistance training in young athletes. Limitations: Small sample.
Effects of a Tart Cherry Supplement on Recovery from Exhaustive Exercise
In an RCT involving 17 recreationally active women, 1000 mg of tart cherry supplement showed no significant differences compared to placebo regarding peak torque, power, muscle pain, or muscle activation, indicating no measurable effect on recovery.
The use of topical ferulic acid in treating cutaneous conditions: a systematic review
Systematic review of 21 human studies (n = 468). Topical ferulic acid showed positive effects on erythema, hyperpigmentation, hydration, elasticity, texture, and skin density in all studies. Particularly good results were achieved in combination with 15% L-ascorbic acid + 1% α-tocopherol.
Low-Dose Oral Minoxidil for Alopecia: A Comprehensive Review
Comprehensive review: Low-Dose Oral Minoxidil (LDOM) is promising in various forms of alopecia. Most common side effects are hypertrichosis (especially in women) and mild cardiovascular symptoms (dose-dependent). Oral minoxidil is used off-label at low doses (usually 0.25–5 mg/day).
Therapeutic effectiveness of probiotics for atopic dermatitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials with subgroup analysis
Probiotics significantly improved atopic dermatitis.
A systematic review to evaluate the efficacy of azelaic acid in the management of acne, rosacea, melasma and skin aging
In 16 acne studies, significantly better than vehicle in global improvement and reduction of lesions/severity. Very well tolerated.
Double-blind, Randomized Trial on the Effectiveness of Acetylhexapeptide-3 Cream and Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 Cream for Crow's Feet
Both peptides significantly improved crow's feet and skin quality. Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (PP4) showed better results than Acetylhexapeptide-3.
Effect of chicory-derived inulin-type fructans on abundance of Bifidobacterium and on bowel function: a systematic review with meta-analyses
50 studies with 2525 participants. Chicory inulin-type fructans (3–20 g/day) markedly increased bifidobacteria. In healthy individuals, bowel function also improved.
Effects of vitamin D supplementation on maximal strength and power in athletes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Meta-analysis. Vitamin D supplementation shows no statistically significant effect on maximal strength and power in athletes. Conclusion: Neutral for maximal strength and power. Limitations: Varying baseline levels across included studies.
Outcome-Specific Efficacy of Different Probiotic Strains and Mixtures in Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Network meta-analysis of 81 RCTs (>9000 participants). Lactobacillus acidophilus DDS-1 ranked first for improving the IBS Symptom Severity Scale (IBS-SSS) (SUCRA 92.9%; MD -77.70; 95% CI -101.72 to -53.68; moderate evidence quality), making it one of the most effective single strains for global IBS symptoms. Effects on pain and bloating were strain-dependent and sometimes stronger in mixtures.
Anxiety-Reducing Effects of Lavender Essential Oil Inhalation: A Systematic Review
11 studies (972 participants). 10 of 11 reported significant anxiety reduction from lavender inhalation. Physiological parameters (blood pressure, heart rate) also improved in several trials.
Efficacy of Silexan in patients with anxiety disorders: a meta-analysis of randomized, placebo-controlled trials
Meta-analysis of all five double-blind RCTs of Silexan (80 mg/day) over 10 weeks in subclinical anxiety, GAD, and mixed anxiety-depression (MADD). Silexan was significantly superior to placebo in reducing total HAMA scores (psychic and somatic anxiety). Responder rate (≥50% HAMA reduction) was 51.8% vs 38.8% placebo (RR 1.34). Self-reported anxiety and quality of life (SF-36) also improved significantly; tolerability was comparable to placebo.
The effects of Korean Red Ginseng on stress-related neurotransmitters and gene expression: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
8-week RCT. Korean Red Ginseng preserved epinephrine levels better than placebo. Among participants whose stress scores rose, the ginseng group showed smaller serotonin decreases and a smaller cortisol rise.
Meta-analysis reveals gut microbiome and functional pathway alterations in response to resistant starch
RS altered the microbiome: more Ruminococcus, Agathobacter, Faecalibacterium and Bifidobacterium. alpha-Diversity decreased slightly. Carbohydrate and lipid metabolic pathways were upregulated.
The Impact of Kiwifruit Consumption on the Sleep and Recovery of Elite Athletes
Elite athletes consumed 2 kiwifruits before bedtime for 4 weeks. Significant improvements in sleep quality (PSQI), duration, efficiency, fewer awakenings and better recovery.
Effects of long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on reducing anxiety and/or depression in adults; A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
EPA-rich formulations (≥ 60% EPA of total EPA+DHA) and dosages of 1–2 g EPA/day significantly reduced depressive symptoms. For anxiety, insufficient data were available for a meta-analysis.
Effects of Oral Collagen for Skin Anti-Aging: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 26 RCTs with 1,721 participants. Oral intake of hydrolyzed collagen significantly improved skin moisture and elasticity compared to placebo. Subgroup analyses showed differences by source and duration. Some bias was identified. The authors see positive effects but call for further large RCTs.
Evaluation of curcumin for dermatologic conditions: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Curcumin showed positive effects in several RCTs across various dermatological conditions.
The possible 'calming effect' of subchronic supplementation of a standardised phospholipid carrier-based Melissa officinalis L. extract in healthy adults with emotional distress and poor sleep conditions
3-week double-blind placebo-controlled RCT in 100 healthy adults with moderate emotional distress and/or poor sleep. 400 mg/day phospholipid-based lemon balm extract led to significant improvements in depressive mood, anxiety, stress, emotional condition, mental wellbeing and quality of life. Very good tolerability.
Supplementation with Nitric Oxide Precursors for Strength Performance: A Review of the Current Literature
Review of current literature. Nitrosigine shows good effects on blood flow and pump, which can indirectly lead to better training volume. Conclusion: Good for pump and training quality, less so for pure maximal strength or long-term hypertrophy.
Inositol-Stabilized Arginine Silicate Reduces Exercise Induced Muscle Damage and Increases Perceived Energy
RCT with trained men. Nitrosigine significantly reduced muscle damage (CK), improved perceived energy, and demonstrated better blood flow (reactive hyperemia). Conclusion: Positive for recovery, pump, and subjective training feeling.
The Impact of Sleep Interventions on Athletic Performance
Sleep optimization (especially extension and better quality) demonstrably improves athletic performance parameters in athletes.
Association between Time from Dinner to Bedtime and Sleep Quality Indices in the Young Japanese Population: A Cross-Sectional Study
Cross-sectional study in young Japanese. The time interval between dinner and bedtime (TDB) was examined. A shorter interval (especially ≤ ~4–5 hours) was associated with longer sleep onset latency. The group with the longest interval (≥ 4.95 hours) fell asleep fastest. Sleep efficiency showed opposing tendencies. The authors recommend considering dinner timing as part of sleep hygiene.
Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia Effective for Improving Sleep Duration in Individuals with Insomnia? A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
CBT-I increases sleep duration by an average of approx. 30 minutes (subjective and objective). Better and longer sleep through this intervention improves cognitive function in the long term.
Sleep quality in men with androgenetic alopecia
Case-control study in men with AGA vs. controls. Sleep disturbances were associated with AGA. Especially in severe AGA, significant associations were found with: total sleep time ≤ 6 hours (OR 2.16), poor sleep quality (PSQI > 5, OR 3.72), and high risk of obstructive sleep apnea (STOP-BANG ≥ 5, OR 3.01).
Exploring the Relationship between Micronutrients and Athletic Performance: A Comprehensive Scientific Systematic Review
Comprehensive review on micronutrients in athletes. Zinc is important for metabolism, testosterone and recovery, but a balanced diet usually suffices. Supplementation without confirmed deficiency brings no additional benefit for strength, mass or performance. Conclusion: No clear advantage at normal levels; risk of overdosing (e.g. copper antagonism). Limitations: Much observational data.
Is running good or bad for your knees? A systematic review and meta-analysis of cartilage morphology and composition changes in the tibiofemoral and patellofemoral joints
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 24 studies (446 knees). Investigated the immediate (within 20 min) and delayed (20 min to 48 h) effects of a run on knee cartilage using MRI. Immediately after running, cartilage thickness and volume decreased (between 3.3% and 4.9% depending on region). T1rho and T2 relaxation times (markers for cartilage composition) also decreased temporarily. Changes recovered quickly (tibiofemoral T2 values already within approx. 91 minutes). Existing cartilage defects did not change within 48 hours.
The effect of glycine administration on the characteristics of sleep and daytime sleepiness
RCT. Glycine improved sleep quality and reduced daytime sleepiness.
Comprehensive assessment of the efficacy and safety of a clay mask in oily and acne skin
Clay mask significantly improved acne, oil production, hydration and skin texture.
Oral and Topical Administration of a Standardized Saw Palmetto Oil Reduces Hair Fall and Improves the Hair Growth in Androgenetic Alopecia Subjects – A 16-Week Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study
Double-blind, placebo-controlled 4-arm study (80 subjects) with standardized saw palmetto oil (VISPO). The topical formulation (20% VISPO) reduced hair fall by 22.19% (p < 0.01) and increased hair density by 7.61% (p < 0.001) after 16 weeks. No serious adverse effects. (For comparison: the oral form was somewhat stronger for hair fall and additionally reduced serum DHT.)
Oral and Topical Administration of a Standardized Saw Palmetto Oil Reduces Hair Fall and Improves the Hair Growth in Androgenetic Alopecia Subjects – A 16-Week Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study
Randomized, placebo-controlled 16-week study with standardized saw palmetto oil (oral and topical). The oral form reduced hair fall by up to 29% and increased hair density by 5.17% (both p < 0.001). Additionally, oral intake significantly reduced serum DHT levels compared to placebo. No serious adverse effects.
The Role of Magnesium in Sleep Health: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Systematic review and meta-analysis. Association between magnesium status and better sleep quality, shorter sleep onset latency, and longer sleep duration.
Serum Zinc Concentration in Patients with Alopecia Areata
Study on alopecia areata (not primarily AGA). Serum zinc was significantly lower than in healthy controls and correlated negatively with disease severity. The authors recommend zinc determination in alopecia areata.
Melatonin and the Human Hair Follicle
Review summarizing the human evidence on topical melatonin in AGA and discussing the possible mechanism of action (antioxidative, influence on the hair cycle).
Safety and Effectiveness of Oral Nutraceuticals for Treating Acne: A Systematic Review
Review: probiotics are among oral nutraceuticals with possible benefit in acne.
A systematic review to evaluate the efficacy of azelaic acid in the management of acne, rosacea, melasma and skin aging
Review of 43 RCTs: azelaic acid improved erythema and inflammatory lesions in rosacea; in acne it outperformed vehicle.
The Efficacy and Safety of Oral Spironolactone in the Treatment of Female Pattern Hair Loss: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Systematic review and meta-analysis. Oral spironolactone improved hair density and reduced hair fall in women with FPHL. Tolerability was generally good, and serious adverse effects were rare.
Methylsulfonylmethane Improves Knee Quality of Life in Participants with Mild Knee Pain: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
MSM improved quality of life in participants with mild knee pain.
The effect of caffeine on subsequent sleep: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 24 studies. On average, caffeine led to: −45 minutes total sleep time, −7% sleep efficiency, +9 minutes sleep onset latency, +12 minutes wake time after sleep onset, more light sleep (N1), and less deep sleep (N3/N4, −11.4 min). Practical recommendation: coffee (~107 mg) should be consumed at least 8.8 hours before bedtime; pre-workout products (~217 mg) at least 13.2 hours before.
Efficacy of undenatured collagen in knee osteoarthritis: review of the literature with limited meta-analysis
UC-II supports cartilage repair and maintenance in early OA.
Effect of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids supplementation for patients with osteoarthritis: a meta-analysis
Omega-3 improves joint pain and function in OA.
A standardized Ashwagandha root extract alleviates stress, anxiety, and improves quality of life in healthy adults by modulating stress hormones: Results from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study over 60 days. 500 mg standardized Ashwagandha root extract (2.5% withanolides + piperine) once daily vs. placebo in healthy adults with mild to moderate stress and anxiety symptoms. Outcomes included Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), quality of life, and hormonal parameters (including cortisol). The study showed alleviation of stress and anxiety and improved quality of life through modulation of stress hormones.
Efficacy and safety of the combination of glucosamine and chondroitin for knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Combination improves symptoms in knee OA.
Efficacy and safety of a facial serum and a mask containing salicylic acid and lipohydroxy acid in acne management: A randomized controlled trial
RCT: a salicylic acid + lipohydroxy acid serum and mask significantly improved acne and regulated the skin barrier.
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: An umbrella systematic review and meta-analysis
Musazadeh et al., 8 meta-analyses, 6561 participants. ALT WMD −6.72 IU/L and SMD −0.52; AST WMD −3.73 / SMD −0.65; GGT WMD −4.20; liver fat WMD −5.16.
Association Between Anxiety/Depression and Gastroesophageal Reflux: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
GERD: anxiety symptoms ~34%, depression ~24%. Vs. healthy: anxiety OR 4.46, depression 2.56. Cohorts and MR: bidirectional.
The Effects of Creatine Supplementation Combined with Resistance Training on Regional Measures of Muscle Hypertrophy: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Burke et al., 10 studies, ≥6 weeks, MRI/CT/ultrasound. Pooled effect 0.11 (CrI −0.02 to 0.25) – a very small effect. Muscle thickness +0.10–0.16 cm.
Longitudinal MRI-defined cartilage loss and radiographic joint space narrowing following intra-articular corticosteroid injection for knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
IACS with about double the chance of structural deterioration (OR ≈ 2) vs no/placebo injection.
Garlic supplementation for the treatment of chronic liver disease: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Liu et al., 4 RCTs, 212. ALT, AST, TC, LDL, weight decreased vs. control. Side effects not higher. Positive.
Smoking, alcohol consumption, and 24 gastrointestinal diseases: Mendelian randomization analysis
Genetic propensity to start smoking: higher risk for 20 of 24 GI diseases. Top: reflux OR 1.28, gastric ulcer 1.54, duodenal ulcer 1.53, acute gastritis 1.29, chronic gastritis 1.33, gastric cancer 1.42. 15/20 hold after adjustment for alcohol.
Efficacy and safety of carnitine supplementation on NAFLD: a systematic review and meta-analysis
8 RCTs. ALT −26.38 IU/L (low-certainty evidence), AST also down. HDL +1.14, TG −6.92. Adults −20.3, younger n.s. No relevant AEs.
Association between weight gain and knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review
Weight gain: more pain, stiffness, loss of function, cartilage damage. Knee replacement: +5 kg in women HR 1.34, in men HR 1.25.
Pectoralis Major Rupture in Bodybuilders: A Case Series Including Anabolic Steroid Use
Case series of pectoralis major ruptures in bodybuilders, including those with anabolic steroid use. AAS use was associated with a disproportionately high rate of pectoralis major ruptures, particularly during bench press exercises. Ruptures occurred more frequently and at younger ages than in non-AAS users. Negative.
The role of psychological factors in functional gastrointestinal disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis
22 studies, FGID vs. controls. Anxiety OR 3.14, depression 3.09; plus somatisation and sleep disturbance.
The effect of coenzyme Q10 supplementation on liver enzymes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
Soleimani Damaneh et al., 13 RCTs / 15 effects (not only NAFLD). ALT WMD −5.33 IU/L, AST −4.91, GGT −8.07 (I² 91.6%). ALP +1.10 n.s. Positive (mixed enzymes).
Effects of coenzyme Q10 supplementation on lipid profiles and liver enzymes of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Ardekani et al., 6 RCTs. Overall: TC, LDL, HDL, TG, AST, ALT, GGT n.s. Leave-one-out: AST and GGT partly significant. Dose subgroup TC/AST/GGT; duration subgroup AST. Neutral (primary), slightly positive (subgroups).
Pectoralis Major Rupture in Bodybuilders: A Case Series Including Anabolic Steroid Use
Case series of pectoralis major ruptures in bodybuilders, including those with anabolic steroid use. AAS use was associated with a disproportionately high rate of pectoralis major ruptures, particularly during bench press exercises. Ruptures occurred more frequently and at younger ages than in non-AAS users. Negative.
Vitamin E supplementation in the treatment on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): Evidence from an umbrella review of meta-analysis on randomized controlled trials
6 meta-analyses. ALT −6.47, AST −5.35. Steatosis −0.67, fibrosis −0.24. GGT n.s. Fibrosis clearer at >600 IU/day and ≥12 months.
A sex- and site-specific relationship between body mass index and osteoarthritis: evidence from observational and genetic analyses
Per 5 BMI points HR 1.38 for diagnosed OA. Mendelian randomisation: causal (OR 1.47). Strongest at the knee, both sexes.
Topical cetirizine for treating androgenetic alopecia: A systematic review
Systematic review. Topical cetirizine 1% was superior to placebo. Compared to topical minoxidil, it was weaker on total and vellus hair density but could have longer-lasting effects and was comparable in improving hair diameter. The authors consider 1% topical cetirizine a possible option, especially in patients who do not respond to minoxidil.
Effect of Urolithin A Supplementation on Muscle Endurance and Mitochondrial Health in Older Adults: A Randomized Clinical Trial
RCT with 66 older adults, 1000 mg/day for 4 months. Significant improvement in muscle endurance (contractions to exhaustion) after 2 months (effect slightly attenuated at 4 months due to diminishing returns). No significant superiority in 6-minute walk test and maximal ATP production (strong placebo effect). Conclusion: Positive for muscle endurance and mitochondrial biomarkers, neutral for global functional tests.
Urolithin A improves muscle strength, exercise performance, and biomarkers of mitochondrial health in a randomized trial in middle-aged adults
RCT, double-blind, 88 middle-aged adults (40–64 years), 500 mg or 1000 mg urolithin A/day for 4 months. Significant increase in leg muscle strength (hamstrings +9.8–12%), clinically relevant improvements in peak VO₂ and 6-minute walk test, as well as improved mitochondrial biomarkers and reduced inflammation. Conclusion: Strongly positive for muscle strength and mitochondrial health.
A Novel Theanine Complex, Mg-L-Theanine Improves Sleep Quality via Regulating Brain Electrochemical Activity
Study on the combination of L-theanine + magnesium. Positive effects on sleep quality through modulation of inhibitory neurotransmitters.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect of garlic in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Rastkar et al., 4 studies, 186 NAFLD. ALT, AST, TC, LDL, TG, FBS improved vs. placebo. Steatosis regression RR 2.75 (1.79–4.23). Authors call for more good trials. Positive.
Does Ashwagandha supplementation have a beneficial effect on the management of anxiety and stress? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Meta-analysis of 12 RCTs (1,002 participants). Ashwagandha significantly reduced anxiety (SMD −1.55) and stress (SMD −1.75) compared to placebo. Dose-response analysis showed favorable effects on stress especially in the range of 300–600 mg/day. Certainty of evidence was rated low; further high-quality studies are needed.
Effects of Synbiotics, Probiotics, and Prebiotics on Liver Enzymes of Patients With Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Kanchanasurakit et al., 26 RCTs, 1389 patients. Synbiotics: AST −12.71, waist −2.26 cm, TC −22.23, LDL −17.72, fasting blood sugar −6.75. Probiotics: ALT −14.46, TG −20.97. BMI, HDL, HOMA-IR n.s. CRD42020200301.
Associations between bedtime eating or drinking, sleep duration and wake after sleep onset: findings from the American time use survey
Large population-based analysis (American Time Use Survey). Eating or drinking less than 1 hour before bedtime was associated with longer sleep duration (women +35 min, men +25 min), but also with a higher probability of wake after sleep onset (WASO) – i.e. more frequent nighttime awakening. The further food intake was from bedtime, the lower the risk of too-short or too-long sleep and elevated WASO.
Influence of age, sex, and type of exercise on the efficacy of creatine supplementation on lean body mass: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
Delpino et al., 35 RCTs, 1192 participants. Overall LBM +0.68 kg. With resistance training +1.10 kg; without training +0.03 kg n.s. Men +1.46 kg, women +0.29 kg n.s.
The effect of latanoprost 0.005% solution in the management of scalp alopecia areata, a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial
Randomized, double-blind study in patients with scalp alopecia areata. Latanoprost 0.005% (in addition to clobetasol) significantly increased hair density and regrowth (SALT score) more than placebo. Tolerability was good.
Effects of Tribulus terrestris L. on sport and health biomarkers in physically active individuals: A systematic review
Systematic review. Tribulus terrestris has no clear positive effect on muscle strength, testosterone, or performance in athletes. Conclusion: No convincing evidence for ergogenic effects.
Effect of Docosahexaenoic Acid and Eicosapentaenoic Acid Supplementation on Sleep Quality in Healthy Subjects: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Trial
RCT in healthy adults aged 45+. DHA and EPA supplementation significantly improved sleep quality.
The impact of tryptophan supplementation on sleep quality: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression
Meta-analysis of RCTs. Tryptophan supplementation (especially ≥1 g) significantly reduces wake after sleep onset (WASO) and improves overall sleep quality. Effects are dose-dependent.
Curcumin as adjuvant treatment in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFLD) disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Ngu et al., 16 RCTs, 1028. Severity RR 3.52, steatosis regression RR 3.96 (ultrasound). AST −4.00, ALT −7.02 IU/L, TC −11.86, BMI −0.41. Positive.
Intake of L-serine before bedtime prevents the delay of circadian phase in humans
Human study: L-serine before bedtime improved subjective sleep quality, reduced nightly awakenings and helped prevent circadian phase delay.
The Influence of Running on Lower Limb Cartilage: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Running acutely leads to a temporary reduction in cartilage volume and thickness as well as changes in MRI parameters (T1rho/T2). There is no evidence of permanent damage or new cartilage lesions from repeated running in healthy individuals.
Randomized Controlled-Feeding Study of Dietary Emulsifier Carboxymethylcellulose Reveals Detrimental Impacts on the Gut Microbiota and Metabolome
Double-blind, controlled diet. Healthy: 11 days emulsifier-free diet only (n=9) or same diet + 15 g CMC/day (n=7). CMC vs. control: somewhat more postprandial abdominal discomfort, altered microbiome composition with lower diversity. Stool metabolome: fewer SCFA and free amino acids. In 2 CMC persons: bacteria in the otherwise sterile inner mucus layer plus strong flora change. Authors: broad CMC use in processed foods could contribute to chronic inflammatory diseases via microbiome/metabolome.
Association of magnesium intake with sleep duration and sleep quality: findings from the CARDIA study
Cohort study. Higher magnesium intake was associated with better sleep quality and longer sleep duration.
Therapeutic efficacy of 5-HTP in REM sleep behavior disorder in Parkinson's disease
Double-blind crossover with 50 mg 5-HTP in Parkinson's patients with REM sleep behavior disorder: increased REM share, more stable sleep, good tolerability.
Vitamin D Supplementation and Sleep: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Intervention Studies
Meta-analysis of intervention studies: vitamin D significantly improved sleep quality (PSQI); moderate-to-strong evidence.
The effect of vitamin D on sleep quality: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Meta-analysis: vitamin D supplementation significantly improved sleep quality (PSQI).
Diet and acne: A systematic review
Systematic MEDLINE search (to Nov. 2021), 410 hits, 34 included. Quality by Ottawa scale. High glycemic index and higher daily glycemic load are positively associated with acne development and severity — supported by RCTs. Dairy: mixed, depending on sex, ethnicity and food culture; in Western diet rather unfavorable.
The impact of myo-inositol supplementation on sleep quality in pregnant women: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study
RCT in pregnant women: myo-inositol significantly improved global sleep quality, subjective sleep quality and sleep duration.
Role of Smoking in Androgenetic Alopecia: A Systematic Review
Systematic review. There is a significant association between smoking and androgenetic alopecia. Possible mechanisms: vasoconstriction (reduced blood flow to hair follicles), DNA adduct formation, free radicals, accelerated cell senescence, and hormonal effects. Available data show a clear association.
Does smoking protect against developing osteoarthritis? Evidence from a genetically informed perspective
MR: smoking initiation increases overall, hip and knee OA. Persists after BMI control (overall OA OR 1.45).
Effect of melatonin supplementation on sleep quality: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Meta-analysis of RCTs. Positive effects on sleep quality as measured by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index.
Fundamentals of OA. An initiative of Osteoarthritis and Cartilage. Obesity and metabolic factors in OA
Not only load: metabolic syndrome, disturbed chondrocyte homeostasis and metabolic-immune inflammation link obesity with OA.
The influence of blue light on sleep, performance and wellbeing in young adults: A systematic review
Systematic review. About half of the studies found reduced sleep efficiency, slightly fewer than half found prolonged sleep onset latency. More than half reported negative effects on sleep quality. Evening blue light can impair sleep, performance, and wellbeing in young adults.
Effects of Bifidobacterium animalis subspecies lactis supplementation on gastrointestinal symptoms: systematic review with meta-analysis
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 13–14 RCTs. B. animalis subsp. lactis supplementation significantly increased stool frequency (SMD 0.26). With short-term use (<=14 days) it shortened colonic transit time. In people without baseline GI symptoms, stool consistency improved markedly. No clear effect on abdominal pain or bloating.
Effects of Eurycoma longifolia Jack supplementation on eccentric leg press exercise-induced muscle damage in rugby players
RCT in elite rugby players (400 mg/day, 7 days). No effect on muscle strength, hormones or muscle damage after eccentric loading. Conclusion: Neutral with acute administration in elite athletes. Limitations: Short duration.
Effectiveness and Safety of Saccharomyces Boulardii for the Treatment of Acute Gastroenteritis in the Pediatric Population: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Meta-analysis of 10 studies with 1282 children. Saccharomyces boulardii markedly shortened diarrhoea duration and reduced hospital stay length. Risk of persistent diarrhoea after 1 and 3 days of treatment was also lower. No relevant adverse effects occurred.
Turmeric for Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Systematic Review of Population-Based Evidence
9 clinical studies. Turmeric/curcumin alone or combined can improve IBS severity and quality of life, especially abdominal pain. Quality was inconsistent.
Curcuma longa Linn versus omeprazole in treatment of functional dyspepsia: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Curcuma longa improved pain and non-pain scores more than placebo and comparably to omeprazole.
Effects of 6-Week Betaine Supplementation on Muscular Power and Maximal Strength in Collegiate Male Athletes
RCT with collegiate athletes (5 g/day for 6 weeks). Betaine significantly improved upper-body power, 1RM half squat and overhead press. Positive for strength and power with combined strength and skills training. Limitations: Male participants only.
Therapeutic Potential of Artichoke in the Treatment of Fatty Liver: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Kamel & Farag, 5 RCTs, 333 NAFLD patients. Artichoke leaf extract vs. control: ALT SMD 1.1 (0.79–1.73), AST SMD 1.01 (0.52–1.51); TC SMD 0.98, LDL 0.96, TG 0.95. PROSPERO CRD42020182502.
Ferulic acid – A novel topical agent in reducing signs of photoaging
Clinical study with 14% ferulic acid peels. Significant improvements in wrinkles/photoaging, skin topography, hydration (highly significant), melanin, and erythema. Effects lasted at least 1 month after treatment. No side effects.
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis: Lactobacillus acidophilus for Treating Acute Gastroenteritis in Children
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 15 RCTs (1765 patients). Lactobacillus acidophilus significantly shortened diarrhoea duration (MD -0.69 days; moderate evidence quality). The effect was clearer at daily doses >= 10^9 CFU and was especially seen for stool frequency on day 3. When single strains were analysed without dose/combination data, the effect was partly non-significant. No relevant geographic differences (Asia/Europe/Americas).
Orally consumed ginger and human health: an umbrella review
Umbrella review of 24 systematic reviews. Strongest evidence is for ginger's antiemetic effect in pregnancy (large effect size, high evidence quality). Further positive effects were found for postoperative nausea, chemotherapy-induced vomiting, dyspeptic complaints and other outcomes. Typical effective dose: 0.5–3 g/day.
Effect of Fructooligosaccharides Supplementation on the Gut Microbiota in Human: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
FOS significantly increased Bifidobacterium. The effect was stronger at > 5 g/day and > 4 weeks. Other bacterial groups changed little.
Efficacy and safety of curcumin in psoriasis: preclinical and clinical evidence and possible mechanisms
Curcumin significantly improved psoriasis in clinical studies (meta-analysis of 7 RCTs and 19 preclinical studies).
Evaluating tolerability of resistant starch 2, alone and in combination with minimally fermented fibre for patients with irritable bowel syndrome
Pilot crossover in IBS. RS2 up to 20 g/day was mostly tolerable but caused more bloating in IBS patients. Combination with minimally fermented fibre was possible.
N-Acetylcysteine for Preventing Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Injury: A Comprehensive Review
34 studies, 19,580 acetaminophen-related, 2376 with hepatotoxicity. Start ≤8 h, at the latest 24 h: less liver injury and death. IV 12–48 h or oral 72 h. AEs: anaphylactoid (IV), skin or GI.
Benefits of topical hyaluronic acid for skin quality and signs of skin aging: From literature review to clinical evidence
Topical hyaluronic acid improves skin quality, moisture, and signs of skin aging.
Finasteride for hair loss: a review
Current review with meta-analyses. Finasteride 1 mg significantly increased total hair count after 24 and 48 weeks compared to placebo. The efficacy of 1 mg and 5 mg was comparable. Most common sexual side effects: erectile dysfunction and loss of libido. Possible persistent side effects (post-finasteride syndrome) and depression risk are discussed. Patients should be informed about possible short- and long-term side effects.
Effects of Artichoke Supplementation on Liver Enzymes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Amini et al., 7 RCTs. ALT Hedges g −1.08 (−1.76 to −0.40), AST −1.02 (−1.76 to −0.28). ALT stronger at ≤8 weeks; AST stronger at >500 mg.
The Effectiveness of Rhodiola rosea L. Preparations in Alleviating Various Aspects of Life-Stress Symptoms and Stress-Induced Conditions – Encouraging Clinical Evidence
Comprehensive overview of clinical evidence. Rhodiola preparations show positive effects on life-stress symptoms, fatigue, burnout, cognitive performance and mental performance. Encouraging basis for clinical efficacy in stress-induced conditions.
Effects of Rhodiola Rosea Supplementation on Exercise and Sport: A Systematic Review
Systematic review. Rhodiola rosea shows mixed results for strength and power. Positive effects mainly for endurance and fatigue reduction, less consistent for pure maximal strength. Conclusion: Benefits primarily in endurance and HIIT components of resistance training.
Effects of Omega-3 Supplementation Alone and Combined with Resistance Exercise on Skeletal Muscle in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Meta-analysis of 9 RCTs (286 older adults). Omega-3 + resistance training shows no significant additional effect on muscle mass or neuromuscular function, but improvements in functional strength. Conclusion: Neutral for muscle mass and pure strength gains in older adults, slight benefit in functional performance. Limitations: Focus on older population.
Efficacy and safety of topical finasteride spray solution for male androgenetic alopecia: a phase III, randomized, controlled clinical trial
Large Phase III trial (458 men, 24 weeks) with topical finasteride spray vs. placebo and oral finasteride. The increase in target area hair count was significantly better than placebo and numerically comparable to oral finasteride. Maximum plasma concentration was >100-fold lower and DHT reduction was lower (34.5% vs. 55.6% oral). Consequently, significantly lower risk of systemic sexual side effects. Very well tolerated.
Effect of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Ceramides Supplementation on Skin Barrier Function, Wrinkle, and Pigmentation
RCT with rice ceramides (plant-based). Oral supplementation significantly improved skin barrier function, reduced wrinkle severity and pigmentation. Good tolerability.
Collagen Supplements for Aging and Wrinkles: A Paradigm Shift in the Fields of Dermatology and Cosmetics
Systematic review. Both oral and topical collagen supplements significantly improved moisture, elasticity, and reduced wrinkles and roughness.
The efficacy of high- and low-dose curcumin in knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Curcumin (high and low dose) improves pain and function in knee OA.
Effects of glutamine supplementation on inflammatory bowel disease: A systematic review of clinical trials
7 studies. Glutamine (oral, enteral or parenteral) did not clearly change disease course, symptoms, permeability or inflammatory markers in IBD overall.
Benefits of turmeric supplementation for skin health in chronic diseases: a systematic review
Oral curcumin supplementation showed therapeutic benefits in chronic inflammatory skin conditions (psoriasis, pruritus, oral lichen planus).
Therapeutic effects of turmeric or curcumin extract on pain and function for individuals with knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review
Curcumin improves pain and function in knee OA.
Effect of Chlorella vulgaris on Liver Function Biomarkers: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Yarmohammadi et al., 7 RCTs. AST −9.15 U/L. ALT and ALP overall n.s. NAFLD subgroup AST −16.42. vs. placebo ALT −4.65, not vs. metformin. Positive (AST, NAFLD subgroup).
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Effects of Astaxanthin on Skin Ageing
Systematic review and meta-analysis. Oral (and topical) astaxanthin supplementation significantly improves skin moisture and elasticity, and reduces signs of skin aging. Strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Alcohol consumption and risk of stomach cancer: A meta-analysis
81 studies. Drinking ↔ gastric cancer OR 1.20. Dose-response: more g/day, higher risk.
A Randomized, Triple-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study to Investigate the Efficacy of a Single Dose of AlphaWave L-Theanine on Stress in a Healthy Adult Population
Single dose AlphaWave L-Theanine vs. placebo. L-Theanine increased alpha-wave activity (marker for a relaxed waking state) and lowered salivary cortisol levels 1 hour after intake more than placebo.
Effects of exercise on knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review
Exercise is safe and effective in knee osteoarthritis – particularly regarding pain reduction and strength gains. Various forms (including Pilates, aerobic, strength) show positive effects.
Systematic review with meta-analysis: The effect of vitamin E supplementation in adult patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
7–8 RCTs. ALT −7.37, AST −5.71 IU/L. Individual histology scores, LDL, fasting glucose, and leptin improved.
Prevalence of Low Serum Vitamin D Levels in Patients Presenting With Androgenetic Alopecia: A Review
Review of 13 studies. Confirms the association between low serum vitamin D levels and androgenetic alopecia.
Role of vitamin D in hair loss: A short review
Short review. Most studies show an inverse relationship between serum vitamin D and non-scarring alopecias (AGA, alopecia areata, telogen effluvium). However, definitive studies clearly demonstrating the benefit of vitamin D administration to correct hair loss are still lacking.
Efficacy of Cetirizine 1% Versus Minoxidil 5% Topical Solution in the Treatment of Male Alopecia: A Randomized, Single-blind Controlled Study
Randomized, single-blind study in men with AGA. Comparison of 1% cetirizine solution vs. 5% minoxidil, both 2× daily for 16 weeks. Both groups showed a significant increase in total and vellus hair density. The improvement was markedly stronger with minoxidil. Cetirizine 1% was effective and without complications.
Pumpkin seed oil vs. minoxidil 5% topical foam for the treatment of female pattern hair loss: A randomized comparative trial
Randomized comparative trial in women with female pattern hair loss. One group received topical pumpkin seed oil, the other 5% minoxidil foam for 3 months. Both groups showed significant improvements (decrease in hair shaft diversity and vellus hairs, increase in upright growing hairs). The authors see promising potential of topical pumpkin seed oil in FPHL.
Smoking and risk of insomnia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies
Systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies. Smoking increases the risk of developing insomnia.
Impact of Silymarin in individuals with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis
8 RCTs vs. placebo. Clearer reduction in transaminases, independent of weight loss. Study quality often weak; histology unclear.
The effects of Cynara scolymus L. supplementation on liver enzymes: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Moradi et al., 8 trials. AST (p = 0.001) and ALT (p = 0.016) down vs. placebo. NAFLD: AST p = 0.003, ALT p < 0.001; in overweight subjects ALT p = 0.025.
Efficacy of resveratrol supplementation on liver enzymes in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis
5 RCTs, 216 NAFLD patients. ALT WMD −2.48 IU/L (p = 0.62), AST −2.90 (p = 0.40). Subgroups: under 45 years and <1000 mg/day ALT/AST down; >12 weeks ALT, BMI <30 AST.
Differential Effects of DHA- and EPA-Rich Oils on Sleep Quality in Healthy Adults
RCT in healthy adults. DHA-rich oil showed positive effects on sleep quality, while EPA-rich oil showed weaker or no effects.
Oral minoxidil treatment for hair loss: A review of efficacy and safety
Review of 17 studies (634 patients): oral minoxidil is effective in androgenetic alopecia and other forms of alopecia. Good tolerability at low doses. Clear advantage in compliance over topical application. Oral minoxidil is used off-label at low doses (usually 0.25–5 mg/day).
A double-blind, randomized, parallel-group, placebo-controlled study evaluating the effects of Ashwagandha root extract on sleep quality
RCT in healthy individuals and insomnia patients. Significant improvement in sleep parameters.
The effects of resveratrol supplementation in patients with type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: an umbrella review of meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials
10 NAFLD meta-analyses, 271 participants. Weight/inflammation partly better, effect small, evidence low. Authors: resveratrol not recommended for cardio-metabolic outcomes in NAFLD.
Effect of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract on sleep: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Meta-analysis. Small but significant positive effect on overall sleep quality (SMD -0.59). Stronger at ≥600 mg and ≥8 weeks.
Effects of Exercise on Sleep Quality and Insomnia in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
22 RCTs. Regular exercise (physical + mind-body such as yoga) significantly improves subjective sleep quality (PSQI ↓), insomnia severity (ISI ↓) and daytime sleepiness (ESS ↓). Short interventions (≤ 3 months) were partly more effective than longer ones. Objective parameters (actigraphy) showed mainly improved sleep efficiency.
Efficacy and safety of multiple intra-articular corticosteroid injections for osteoarthritis-a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and observational studies
Multiple injections for pain not clearly better than placebo. McAlindon: more cartilage loss. One cohort: more joint space narrowing (HR 3.02) and more joint replacement (HR 2.54).
Glutamine Supplementation Enhances the Effects of a Low FODMAP Diet in Irritable Bowel Syndrome Management
RCT: low-FODMAP plus 15 g glutamine/day vs low-FODMAP plus placebo. Adding glutamine improved IBS severity more (88% vs 60% with >45% improvement).
The impact of active vitamin D administration on the clinical course of acne vulgaris
RCT: active vitamin D significantly improved the clinical course of acne.
Broad Spectrum Polyphenol Supplementation from Tart Cherry Extract on Markers of Recovery from Intense Resistance Exercise
An RCT with 13 resistance-trained men found 480 mg/day of tart cherry extract significantly reduced oxidative stress, muscle damage (CK), and cardiac markers while preserving handgrip strength. It strongly supports recovery after intense training.
A 6-month, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial to evaluate the effect of Eurycoma longifolia (Tongkat Ali) and concurrent training on erectile function and testosterone levels in androgen deficiency of aging males (ADAM)
RCT with middle-aged men with androgen deficiency. Tongkat Ali (200 mg/day) + concurrent training improved testosterone, erectile function and physical performance better than training alone. Conclusion: Positive for hormonal profile and functional strength in men with low levels. Limitations: Specific population (middle age, androgen deficiency).
A Systematic Review of the Clinical Use of Curcumin for the Management of Gastrointestinal Diseases
21 studies, 1478 patients. 4/7 IBS studies and 6/7 colitis studies were positive. Mostly mild adverse effects.
Effects of Lavender on Anxiety, Depression, and Physiological Parameters: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Lavender (mostly aromatherapy) significantly reduced anxiety (Hedges' g = −0.72) and depression (g = −0.43). Systolic blood pressure also dropped slightly; more sessions strengthened the anxiolytic effect.
The Effects of 6 Weeks of Tribulus terrestris L. Supplementation on Body Composition, Hormonal Response, and Performance in CrossFit Athletes
RCT with CrossFit athletes (770 mg/day, 6 weeks). No significant effect on body composition, total strength, or anaerobic performance. Conclusion: Neutral for strength training.
Tart Cherry Supplementation and Recovery From Strenuous Exercise: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
A meta-analysis of 14 RCTs showed that tart cherry supplementation moderately improves muscle strength recovery and power while reducing muscle pain and inflammation. It is effective for recovery following strenuous exercise.
Resveratrol and exercise combined to treat functional limitations in late life: A pilot randomized controlled trial
This pilot RCT in older adults combined resistance training with resveratrol. While mitochondrial function and mobility showed slight improvements, no significant effects on muscle strength or hypertrophy were observed. Results were neutral to slightly positive.
The Dose Response of Taurine on Aerobic and Strength Exercises: A Systematic Review
Systematic review. Taurine (especially low doses) can reduce fatigue, lessen lactate accumulation and support recovery in aerobic and high-intensity exercise. In trained athletes, however, no significant additional effect on pure maximal strength or hypertrophy. Conclusion: Positive for endurance, fatigue reduction and lactate management, neutral for classic strength adaptations in well-trained individuals.
Ursolic acid has no additional effect on muscle strength and mass in active men undergoing a high-protein diet and resistance training: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
In an RCT with 22 active men, 400 mg/day of ursolic acid plus resistance training and a high-protein diet showed no additional benefit for muscle mass or strength. High protein intake may have masked potential effects.
Dose Response of Acute ATP Supplementation on Strength Training Performance
This RCT crossover study in 20 men found that 400 mg of PEAK ATP significantly increased the number of set 1 repetitions (+13%, p = 0.04) compared to placebo, while 100 mg and 400 mg ATP decreased the perceived rate of exertion.
Effect of 5-HTP on sleep onset latency in older adults with poor sleep
Study in older adults with poor sleep: reduction of objective sleep onset latency by ~18 minutes after 4 and 8 weeks.
Omega-3 and polyunsaturated fat for prevention of depression and anxiety symptoms: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised trials
Large prevention meta-analysis. Long-term omega-3 supplementation had little to no effect on preventing depression or anxiety symptoms in the general population.
Effects of sodium bicarbonate supplementation on exercise performance: an umbrella review
Umbrella review. Sodium bicarbonate (0.2–0.3 g/kg) improves performance in high-intensity intervals, repeated sprints and muscular endurance. Conclusion: Beneficial for training with short rest periods and high metabolic stress. Limitations: No benefit for maximal strength.
The effects of lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) on depression and anxiety in clinical trials: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Lemon balm significantly improved anxiety (SMD –0.98) and depression scores (SMD –0.47) versus placebo. Effects especially in acute settings. No serious adverse events. High heterogeneity – interpret results cautiously.
Oral magnesium supplementation for insomnia in older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 3 RCTs with 151 older adults with insomnia. Magnesium supplementation reduced sleep onset latency by approx. 17 minutes and improved total sleep time by 16 minutes vs. placebo (not statistically significant). Moderate quality evidence. Neutral.
Cigarette Smoking, Alcohol Consumption, and Risk of Alopecia Areata: A Population-Based Cohort Study in Taiwan
Population-based cohort study. Current smoking increased the risk of alopecia areata. In contrast, alcohol consumption (social and regular) was associated with a reduced risk of alopecia areata (aHR 0.65 and 0.49 respectively).
Systematic review with meta-analysis: Saccharomyces boulardii for treating acute gastroenteritis in children—a 2020 update
Updated meta-analysis of 29 RCTs. Saccharomyces boulardii shortened diarrhoea duration by ~1 day on average and reduced hospitalisation stay. Risk of persistent diarrhoea on days 2–7 was also lower. Evidence quality was rated low to very low.
Does L-carnitine supplementation affect serum levels of enzymes mainly produced by liver? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials
18 RCTs, 1161 participants. 500–4000 mg/day. ALT −8.65, AST −8.52, GGTP −8.80 IU/L. Stronger at ≥2000 mg, >12 weeks, and in liver patients. NutriGrade moderate (ALT/AST), low (GGTP).
Effect of L-Carnitine Supplementation on Liver Enzymes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
16 studies, 1025 participants. ALT −10.73, AST −7.15, GGT −7.40 IU/L. n.s. in normal-weight and healthy individuals.
Ginger on Human Health: A Comprehensive Systematic Review of 109 Randomized Controlled Trials
Analysis of 109 RCTs. Consistent positive results for nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, inflammation, metabolic parameters and digestive function. Results were more mixed for other indications. Methodological quality of many studies was limited.
Efficacy of a cosmetic phyto-caffeine shampoo in female androgenetic alopecia
Double-blind, randomized study in women with AGA. A phyto-caffeine shampoo was compared with a control shampoo over 6 months. The caffeine group showed significantly fewer pulled hairs in the hair-pull test (−3.1 vs. −0.5 hairs; p < 0.001) as well as improvements in hair loss intensity and hair strength. Both products were very well tolerated.
Cigarette Smoking, Alcohol Consumption, and Risk of Alopecia Areata: A Population-Based Cohort Study in Taiwan
Population-based cohort study. Current smokers had a significantly increased risk of alopecia areata (aHR 1.88). A dose-effect was observed (more years and pack-years = higher risk).
Efficacy of Topical Finasteride 0.5% vs 17α-Estradiol 0.05% in the Treatment of Postmenopausal Female Pattern Hair Loss: A Retrospective, Single-Blind Study of 119 Patients
Retrospective, single-blind study in 119 postmenopausal women. Both groups (finasteride 0.5% + minoxidil 2% vs. 17α-estradiol 0.05% + minoxidil 2%) showed significant improvements after 6 and 12–18 months. The finasteride combination was significantly superior to the 17α-estradiol combination.
Alcohol consumption and incidence of sleep disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies
Moderate alcohol consumption was associated with an increased risk of sleep disorders (OR 1.37).
Passiflora incarnata in Neuropsychiatric Disorders—A Systematic Review
Systematic review of 9 randomized clinical trials. Most studies reported reduced anxiety with Passiflora preparations; the effect was less pronounced for milder anxiety. No relevant side effects (including no impairment of memory or psychometric function). Authors consider Passiflora potentially helpful for neuropsychiatric symptoms.
Effects of sodium bicarbonate supplementation on muscular strength and endurance: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Systematic review and meta-analysis. Sodium bicarbonate significantly improves muscular endurance (SMD 0.37), especially at high repetition ranges and short rest periods. No significant effect on maximal strength (1RM). Conclusion: Positive for training volume and muscular endurance in resistance training.
Low-dose oral minoxidil as treatment for non-scarring alopecia: a systematic review
Systematic review with over 19,000 patients: good efficacy in androgenetic alopecia (61–100% improvement) and alopecia areata. Better compliance than topical. Most common side effect: hypertrichosis. Oral minoxidil is used off-label at low doses (usually 0.25–5 mg/day); the evidence is more recent but growing strongly.
Acute Effects of Nitrosigine® and Citrulline Malate on Vasodilation in Young Adults
RCT. 1.5g Nitrosigine significantly improved flow-mediated dilation (blood flow) and was comparable or even more effective than 8g citrulline malate. Conclusion: Strongly positive for acute muscle pump and improved blood flow during training.
Natural Hair Supplement: Friend or Foe? Saw Palmetto, a Systematic Review in Alopecia
Systematic review. Five RCTs and two prospective cohort studies showed positive effects of oral and topical preparations with saw palmetto (100–320 mg) in AGA and telogen effluvium. Reported outcomes included 60% improvement in hair quality, 27% increase in total hair count, increased hair density in 83.3% of patients, and stabilization of progression in 52%. Well tolerated, no serious adverse effects. The authors emphasize that robust high-quality data are still lacking and larger RCTs are needed.
Natural Hair Supplement: Friend or Foe? Saw Palmetto, a Systematic Review in Alopecia
Systematic review including both oral and topical preparations with saw palmetto (100–320 mg). Positive effects in AGA and telogen effluvium were reported (including improvements in hair quality, count, and density). Topical applications were included in several of the studies. Well tolerated. The authors call for larger RCTs to better investigate the isolated contribution of saw palmetto.
Safety and Efficacy of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) for Treating Mild to Moderate Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Saffron was superior to placebo and comparable to synthetic antidepressants for mild to moderate depression. Side-effect profile was comparable or better.
The effects of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) on mental health parameters and C-reactive protein: A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
21 trials. Significant reduction of BDI, BAI and PSQI (sleep quality). No significant effects on Hamilton scales and CRP.
The protective effect of myricitrin in osteoarthritis: An in vitro and in vivo study
Yan et al. investigated myricitrin in mouse chondrocytes under IL-1β stimulation and in a surgical OA mouse model. Myricitrin reduced NO, PGE2, TNF-α and IL-6, decreased expression of MMP-3, MMP-13 and ADAMTS5 and preserved type II collagen. The mechanism of action involves the MAPK/NF-κB pathways. In the surgical OA mouse model, lower OARSI scores were observed. No human study; dosage and effect sizes are not quantified in the freely accessible abstract. Positive (in vitro + mouse only), no human evidence.
N-acetylcysteine for non-paracetamol (acetaminophen)-related acute liver failure
2 RCTs (183 adults, 174 children), high risk of bias. Adults, day-21 death: 29.6% vs. 33.7% placebo, RR 0.88 (0.57–1.37). Day-21 transplant RR 0.72 (0.49–1.06). Children, 1-year death RR 1.47 (0.85–2.53). All low-certainty evidence, not pooled.
Impact of Alcohol Consumption on Snoring and Sleep Apnea: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Alcohol worsens snoring, alters sleep architecture, increases the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), and lowers the lowest oxygen saturation.
Overtraining in Resistance Exercise: An Exploratory Systematic Review and Methodological Appraisal of the Literature
Excessive training loads without adequate recovery lead to cumulative fatigue and performance decrements in resistance training.
Overreaching and overtraining in strength sports and resistance training
Overreaching and overtraining also occur in pure strength training and lead to stagnant or declining performance.
Effectiveness of phosphatidylcholine in alleviating steatosis in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and cardiometabolic comorbidities (MANPOWER study)
2843 newly diagnosed NAFLD + ≥1 comorbidity, PPC add-on, 24 weeks. Nearly all 1.8 g 3×/day. Echogenicity improved 68.3%, structure 42.7%. No placebo. Positive (uncontrolled).
Effect of garlic powder supplementation on hepatic steatosis, liver enzymes and lipid profile in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a double-blind randomised controlled clinical trial
Sangouni et al., 90 NAFLD, 4×400 mg powder/day (1.6 g), 12 weeks. Steatosis improved (p = 0.001). ALT, AST, GGT, TC, TG, HDL, LDL improved. ALP n.s. Positive.
Effectiveness of phosphatidylcholine as adjunctive therapy in improving liver function tests in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and metabolic comorbidities: real-life observational study from Russia
Same cohort, 1.8 g PPC/day. After 24 weeks ALT −19.7 to −22.0 U/L, AST −16.9 to −18.4, GGT −17.2 to −18.7 (p < 0.001 vs. baseline). Positive (uncontrolled).
Effectiveness of Boswellia and Boswellia extract for osteoarthritis patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Boswellia extract significantly improved pain and function in OA patients.
Therapeutic Effects of Garlic on Hepatic Steatosis in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Soleimani et al., 110 randomized, 98 completed. 800 mg, 15 weeks. Steatosis improved 51.1% vs. 15.7% (RR 5.6). Weight, ALT, AST, FBS, HbA1c, TC, LDL, TG decreased. No serious side effects. Positive.
Curcumin use in ulcerative colitis: is it ready for prime time? A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials
Curcumin as an adjunct to mesalazine can improve remission and endoscopic findings. Evidence is limited by small studies and varying formulations.
Effectiveness of Ginger on Pain and Function in Knee Osteoarthritis: A PRISMA Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Ginger reduced pain and improved function in knee OA.
Topical benzoyl peroxide for acne
BPO as monotherapy or add-on was significantly more effective than placebo. Comparable to adapalene and clindamycin. Mild local irritation possible.
Serum zinc levels and efficacy of zinc treatment in acne vulgaris: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Acne patients have significantly lower zinc levels; oral zinc supplementation improves acne symptoms.
Efficacy of fish oil and its components in the management of psoriasis: a systematic review of 18 randomized controlled trials
Omega-3 fatty acids are effective and safe in psoriasis and comorbidities.
Effects of garlic supplementation on liver enzymes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Panjeshahin et al., 6 RCTs, 301 (not only NAFLD). AST Hedges g −0.36 (p = 0.047). ALT −0.22 n.s. Slightly positive (AST), neutral (ALT).
The Effects of Green Tea Amino Acid L-Theanine Consumption on the Ability to Manage Stress and Anxiety Levels: a Systematic Review
Systematic review of 9 randomized controlled trials of pure L-theanine as a supplement. Intake of 200 to 400 mg/day can help reduce stress and anxiety in people exposed to stressful conditions. The authors emphasize that longer and larger studies are needed to clearly justify therapeutic use.
Topical azelaic acid, salicylic acid, nicotinamide, sulphur, zinc and fruit acid (alpha-hydroxy acid) for acne
Cochrane review: azelaic acid was probably less effective than benzoyl peroxide in acne and likely no relevant difference versus tretinoin; generally well tolerated. Evidence quality mostly low to very low.
Zinc at the crossroads of exercise and proteostasis
Narrative review focused on skeletal muscle. Zinc is essential for protein synthesis, muscle regeneration, myogenesis and proteostatic processes after exertion. With inadequate supply, supplementation can support muscle mass and recovery. Conclusion: Important for athletes with high training load; benefit mainly with suboptimal status. Limitations: Many mechanism studies, few direct performance RCTs.
The effects of resveratrol on lipid profiles and liver enzymes in patients with metabolic syndrome and related disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
31 studies. TC WMD −7.65 mg/dL. GGT +1.76 U/L. TG, LDL, HDL, ALT (−0.14), AST (−0.34) n.s.
A randomized, double blind, placebo controlled study to evaluate the effects of ashwagandha extract on sleep quality in healthy adults
RCT in healthy adults. 72% improvement in sleep quality vs. 29% placebo. Significant improvements in sleep efficiency, total sleep time, sleep onset latency, and WASO.
A pilot, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to assess the safety and efficacy of a novel Boswellia serrata extract in the management of osteoarthritis of the knee
Boswellia extract was safe and effective in knee OA.
Zinc and atopic dermatitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Low zinc levels (serum, hair, erythrocytes) are associated with atopic dermatitis.
The Role of Mineral and Trace Element Supplementation in Exercise and Athletic Performance: A Systematic Review (Neutral)
In athletes with normal zinc status, supplementation shows no consistent performance-enhancing effect on muscle strength, power or body composition. Most positive results are limited to deficiency situations or immune/hormone markers. Conclusion: Neutral for maximal strength and power with adequate supply. Limitations: Heterogeneous study quality.
A double-blind randomized placebo controlled study assessing safety, tolerability and efficacy of palmitoylethanolamide for symptoms of knee osteoarthritis
PEA (300 mg and 600 mg daily) reduced pain and other symptoms in knee OA safely and effectively.
Rosa canina - Rose hip pharmacological ingredients and molecular mechanics counteracting osteoarthritis - A systematic review
Rosehip acts via anti-inflammatory and chondroprotective mechanisms in OA.
Ginger in gastrointestinal disorders: A systematic review of clinical trials
Systematic review of clinical trials on ginger for various GI complaints. Good evidence for nausea (especially pregnancy and postoperative). Positive signals also for functional dyspepsia (better gastric emptying and symptom reduction). Data for IBS and other bowel disorders is more limited, with some evidence of symptom relief.
Efficacy of ω-3 supplementation in patients with psoriasis: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Omega-3 supplementation significantly improves psoriasis symptoms.
The Role of Mineral and Trace Element Supplementation in Exercise and Athletic Performance: A Systematic Review
Systematic review (including 9 zinc studies). In zinc deficiency or suboptimal supply, supplementation (usually 15–30 mg/day) can support testosterone levels, immune function and muscle regeneration. Direct effects on strength/power are weak but relevant when deficiency is present. Conclusion: Potential benefit mainly in deficiency (common in athletes due to sweat losses). Limitations: Few high-quality RCTs on pure strength performance.
Effects of fish oil supplement on psoriasis: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Fish oil supplements reduce psoriasis severity.
Efficacy and safety of lavender essential oil (Silexan) capsules among patients suffering from anxiety disorders: A network meta-analysis
Network meta-analysis. Silexan 160 mg showed the greatest HAMA reduction vs Silexan 80 mg, placebo, and paroxetine. Silexan 80 mg was roughly as effective as paroxetine 20 mg.
How Strong is the Evidence for the Anxiolytic Efficacy of Lavender?: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
22 RCTs. Lavender aromatherapy significantly reduced anxiety (g = −0.65), systolic blood pressure, heart rate, and salivary cortisol and chromogranin A.
Effect of Korean Red Ginseng in individuals exposed to high stress levels: a 6-week, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial
6-week RCT in highly stressed individuals. Korean Red Ginseng stabilized the sympathetic nervous system (lowered epinephrine) and improved cognitive parameters. Triglycerides rose markedly but stayed within the normal range.
Effects of beta-Fructans Fiber on Bowel Function: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Only short-chain beta-fructans (FOS/oligofructose) increased stool frequency. Long-chain inulin did not in this analysis.
Efficacy of Silexan in subthreshold anxiety: meta-analysis of randomised, placebo-controlled trials
Meta-analysis in subclinical anxiety. Silexan reduced HAMA scores by ~3.8 points more than placebo, with positive effects on sleep (without sedation) and quality of life.
Prospective, randomized, double-blind assessment of topical bakuchiol and retinol for facial photoageing
Bakuchiol was comparably effective to retinol in improving wrinkles and skin aging, but better tolerated.
Effects of Eurycoma longifolia Jack supplementation combined with resistance training on isokinetic muscular strength and power, anaerobic power, and urinary testosterone-to-epitestosterone ratio in young males
RCT with 40 young men (8 weeks resistance training + 200 mg Tongkat Ali/day). The combination improved isokinetic power (especially lower-body) and anaerobic peak power more than training alone. Conclusion: Positive ergogenic effect in combination with resistance training. Limitations: Young men, moderate sample size.
Topical Retinoids in Acne Vulgaris: A Systematic Review
Retinol is effective for acne with good tolerability as an OTC retinoid.
Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Athletic Performance in Soccer Players: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
9 double-blind RCTs. Aerobic SMD −0.05 n.s. Phosphagen system (strength/jump/sprint/agility) SMD 0.21 n.s. Anaerobic SMD 1.23; Wingate SMD 2.26.
Randomised placebo-controlled trial of dietary glutamine supplements for postinfectious irritable bowel syndrome
Double-blind RCT, 8 weeks, 5 g glutamine 3× daily vs placebo, only in patients with postinfectious IBS-D and increased gut permeability. Primary endpoint (>=50 points less on IBS-SS) in 79.6% vs 5.8%. Less stool frequency, firmer stools (Bristol) and lower permeability.
Effects of carnitine supplementation on liver aminotransferase enzymes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials
17 studies. ALT −10.25, AST −7.85 IU/L. AST from 2000 mg; ALT at ≤1000 or 2000 mg. Effect only with elevated enzymes or ≥3 months.
Alcohol Consumption and the Risk of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
26 cross-sectional + 3 case-control. Drinkers vs. never/occasional: GERD OR 1.48. Reflux esophagitis 1.78, NERD 1.15. Frequent drinking OR 2.12. Per +12.5 g/day OR 1.16.
A Single Dose of Oral ATP Supplementation Improves Performance and Physiological Response During Lower Body Resistance Exercise in Recreationally Trained Men
An acute 400 mg dose before lower-body training improved overall performance, repetitions, and energy expenditure. Findings show positive effects on acute muscle pump and training volume in recreationally trained men.
Therapeutic efficacy and safety of chamomile for state anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder, insomnia, and sleep quality: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials and quasi-randomized trials
Meta-analysis of RCTs and quasi-RCTs. Chamomile showed positive effects on sleep quality, insomnia, and anxiety symptoms.
L-theanine in the adjunctive treatment of generalized anxiety disorder: A double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial
In patients with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) as adjunctive therapy. Results for anxiety reduction were mixed; L-theanine showed no clearly superior effect compared to placebo in this clinical population.
An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study
60-day RCT in stressed, healthy adults. Ashwagandha significantly reduced the Hamilton Anxiety Score and lowered morning cortisol and DHEA-S more than placebo. Testosterone increased in men (not significant vs. placebo). Very good tolerability.
The effect of sleep deficiency on esophageal acid exposure of healthy controls and patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease
Crossover: 11 healthy + 11 GERD, 2 nights 7–8 h vs. 2 nights 4 h each, 1 week washout, actigraphy. After normal sleep: all healthy normal pH. After short sleep: 5/11 healthy pathological pH test; acid time % total 6.15 vs. 1.74, upright 4.72 vs. 0.87. GERD: pathological test 54.5% → 90.9%. Conclusion: sleep deprivation raises acid exposure in both groups; almost half of the healthy become pH-pathological.
Effects of L-Theanine Administration on Stress-Related Symptoms and Cognitive Functions in Healthy Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Randomized, placebo-controlled crossover study over 4 weeks. L-Theanine improved stress-related symptoms and cognitive functions in healthy adults.
Association between body composition and osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Fat mass and fat percentage associated with knee, hip and hand OA. Pure muscle mass percentage rather protective.
Impact of Smoking and Alcohol Use on Facial Aging in Women: Results of a Large Multinational, Multiracial, Cross-sectional Survey
3267 women. Heavy drinking (≥8 drinks/week): more forehead/crow's feet, under-eye bags, mouth corners, midface volume loss, visible vessels. Smoking affects rather perioral wrinkles and lip fullness.
Effects of Evening Exercise on Sleep in Healthy Participants: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Evening exercise does not disturb sleep in healthy individuals. It even slightly increased deep sleep proportion and REM latency. Only at very high intensity + high body temperature shortly before bed were there indications of minor impairments.
Impact of Smoking and Alcohol Use on Facial Aging in Women: Results of a Large Multinational, Multiracial, Cross-sectional Survey
3267 women, 18–75 years, USA/Australia/Canada/UK, several ethnicities. Self-assessment of 11 facial signs. Smoking (after age, BMI, country, ethnicity): stronger forehead, crow's feet, glabellar lines, under-eye bags, tear trough, nasolabial folds, mouth corners, perioral wrinkles, less lip fullness. Not midface volume loss and not visible vessels.
The impact of stress on epidermal barrier function: an evidence-based review
21 studies (human part central). Stress → fewer lipids/proteins, less hydration, more TEWL.
Effect of saffron supplementation on symptoms of depression and anxiety: a systematic review and meta-analysis
23 studies. Saffron showed large positive effect sizes versus placebo for depressive symptoms (g = 0.99) and anxiety symptoms (g = 0.95). Also effective as an add-on to antidepressants. Indications of publication bias.
Efficacy of Probiotics and Synbiotics in Patients with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Meta-Analysis
Liu et al., 15 RCTs, 782 patients. Steatosis, ALT, AST, TG, TC, HDL, LDL, HOMA-IR, liver stiffness, TNF-α improved (all p < 0.05). BMI, waist circumference, fasting glucose n.s.
Serum biotin and zinc in male androgenetic alopecia
Case-control study. Serum zinc was significantly lower in men with AGA than in controls. The authors recommend integrating zinc supplementation into the treatment of male AGA.
Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis: The Effects of Probiotics in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Xiao et al., 28 trials, 1555 NAFLD patients, 4–28 weeks. BMI −1.46; ALT −13.40; AST −13.54; GGT −9.88; insulin −1.32; HOMA-IR −0.42; TC −15.38. Fasting glucose, other lipids, TNF-α n.s.
The effect of vitamin D supplement on the score and quality of sleep in 20-50 year-old people with sleep disorders compared with control group
RCT in people with sleep disorders: vitamin D significantly improved sleep quality, shortened sleep onset latency and increased sleep duration.
Psychological Stress Deteriorates Skin Barrier Function by Activating 11β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase 1 and the HPA Axis
Stressed individuals: more cortisol in stratum corneum, higher 11β-HSD1, worse TEWL/integrity. Small SSRI group (escitalopram): barrier better, 11β-HSD1 down.
Turmeric tonic as a treatment in scalp psoriasis: A randomized placebo-control clinical trial
Curcumin tonic significantly reduced erythema, scaling, and induration in scalp psoriasis.
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Yan et al., 18 studies, 1424 participants. Liver fat, ALT, AST, GGT, TG, insulin resistance, and glucose improved vs. control. High heterogeneity, no serious AEs.
Efficacy of curcumin and Boswellia for knee osteoarthritis: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Boswellia showed good effects on pain and function in knee OA (comparable to curcumin).
The Effect of Zinc Supplementation on Sleep Quality of ICU Nurses: A Double Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial
RCT in ICU nurses with poor sleep: zinc significantly improved sleep quality (PSQI).
A Meta-Analysis of the Clinical Use of Curcumin for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
3 RCTs, 326 patients. Symptom improvement favoured curcumin but was not statistically significant. Well tolerated. High heterogeneity.
Astaxanthin in Skin Health, Repair, and Disease
Review of several RCTs. Multiple human studies showed improvements in wrinkles, elasticity, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), moisture content, and sebum. Good UV protection effects.
Anabolic Steroids and Tendons: A Review of Their Mechanical, Structural, and Biologic Effects
Narrative review of the mechanical, structural, and biologic effects of AAS on tendons. AAS alter tendon structure, reduce collagen cross-linking, and increase stiffness. This results in tendon tissue that is thicker but more brittle and prone to rupture. Animal studies show reduced biomechanical strength. Negative.
Effect of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate in symptomatic knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials
Positive effects on symptoms in symptomatic knee OA.
Anabolic Steroids and Tendons: A Review of Their Mechanical, Structural, and Biologic Effects
Narrative review of the mechanical, structural, and biologic effects of AAS on tendons. AAS alter tendon structure, reduce collagen cross-linking, and increase stiffness. This results in tendon tissue that is thicker but more brittle and prone to rupture. Animal studies show reduced biomechanical strength. Negative.
Efficacy of curcumin and Boswellia for knee osteoarthritis: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Curcumin showed good effects on pain and function in knee OA (comparable to Boswellia).
Inadequate sleep and muscle strength: Implications for resistance exercise performance
Sleep restriction over multiple nights reduces maximal strength in multi-joint exercises (e.g. squat, deadlift).
Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide
Comprehensive review. GHK-Cu stimulates collagen and glycosaminoglycan production, improves wound healing, and reduces inflammation and oxidative stress. In a study with women, topical GHK-Cu improved collagen production in 70% of participants. Strong regenerative effects on skin quality.
Association of Use of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids With Changes in Severity of Anxiety Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 19 clinical trials. 1,203 participants with omega-3 (mean dose 1,606 mg/day), 1,037 controls. Omega-3 PUFAs were associated with significant reduction of clinical anxiety symptoms (Hedges g = 0.374; p = 0.01). Effect stronger in clinical diagnoses. Anxiolytic effect only at ≥ 2,000 mg/day, not at lower dosages.
Superiority of magnesium and vitamin B6 over magnesium alone on severe stress in healthy adults with low magnesemia: A randomized, single-blind clinical trial
264 healthy adults with low magnesium and high stress (DASS-42). 300 mg magnesium/day (with or without 30 mg vitamin B6) for 8 weeks. Both groups reduced stress scores markedly (~42–45%). In severe/extreme stress, the magnesium + B6 combination was significantly superior (+24% improvement).
A Systematic Review of Topical Finasteride in the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia in Men and Women
Systematic review of 7 studies. In all studies, there was a significant decrease in hair loss rate, increase in total and terminal hair count, and positive assessments of hair growth. Topical finasteride showed efficacy in both men and women.
Alcohol and the risk of sleep apnoea: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Higher alcohol consumption increases the risk of sleep apnoea by approximately 25%.
Pilot Study of the Tart Cherry Juice for the Treatment of Insomnia and Investigation of Mechanisms
Pilot RCT in older adults with insomnia. 240 ml tart cherry juice daily for 2 weeks significantly improved sleep duration (+84 minutes), sleep efficiency, and subjective sleep quality. An increase in melatonin levels was also demonstrated.
Safety and Efficacy of Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid from Fermented Rice Germ in Patients with Insomnia Symptoms: A Randomized, Double-Blind Trial
RCT: 300 mg GABA daily for 4 weeks significantly shortened sleep onset latency and improved objective sleep efficiency in insomnia.
Sleep Interventions Designed to Improve Athletic Performance and Recovery: A Systematic Review of Current Approaches
Among various sleep interventions, sleep extension showed the strongest positive effects on subsequent performance and recovery in athletes. Sleep hygiene measures and napping can also be helpful.
Melatonin suppression and sleepiness in children exposed to blue-enriched white LED lighting at night
Comparison of children (mean age 8.9 years) and adults under blue-enriched LED light (6200 K) vs. warmer light (3000 K). Children showed significantly stronger melatonin suppression than adults. Under blue-enriched light, subjective sleepiness in children remained lower. Conclusion: children are more sensitive to evening blue light; warm light is especially recommended for children in the evening.
Clinical and dermoscopic evaluation of combined (salicylic acid 20% and azelaic acid 20%) versus trichloroacetic acid 25% chemical peel in acne
RCT: salicylic acid combined with azelaic acid was particularly effective for inflammatory acne lesions.
Lower Serum Zinc Concentration Despite Higher Dietary Zinc Intake in Athletes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Meta-analysis of 12 studies. Athletes have significantly lower serum zinc levels (−0.93 µmol/L) than non-athletes despite higher dietary zinc intake (+2.57 mg/day). This points to higher demand due to sweat losses and intense training. Conclusion: Athletes are more prone to marginal zinc deficiency, which can affect testosterone, immune function, recovery and indirectly performance. Limitations: Few direct intervention studies on performance.
Oral herbal medicines marketed in Brazil for the treatment of osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Uncaria guianensis (Cat's Claw) showed positive effects in OA in Brazilian studies.
Effects of Betaine Supplementation on Muscle Strength and Power: A Systematic Review
⚠️ This 2017 review is somewhat outdated (newer 2024 meta-analysis is considerably more positive). Systematic review. Only 2 of 7 studies showed clear improvements in strength/power. Mixed results, no consistent benefit across all populations. Limitations: Few high-quality studies.
International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in exercise, sport, and medicine
ISSN update: creatine increases intramuscular creatine, high-intensity performance, and training adaptation. Up to 30 g/day for 5 years rated as tolerable in healthy people.
Resveratrol Supplementation in Patients with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Elgebaly et al., 4 RCTs, 158 patients. ALT MD −2.89 n.s., AST −3.59 n.s. Weight, BMI, glucose (p = 0.05), insulin, TG, LDL n.s. No fibrosis effect.
The effect of different doses of zinc supplementation on serum element and lactate levels in elite volleyball athletes
RCT in elite volleyball players. Different zinc doses (over 4 weeks) reduced lactate levels and delayed fatigue. Positive influence on endurance and repetition performance. Conclusion: Can reduce fatigue and improve performance during intense training. Limitations: Small sample, short duration, no pure maximal-strength measure.
Somatic Effects of AAS Abuse: A 30-Year Follow-Up Study of Male Weightlifters
30-year follow-up study with former AAS users. Former AAS abuse was significantly associated with tendon ruptures (p = 0.01), depression (p = 0.001), and anxiety (p = 0.01). Tendon damage persisted decades after discontinuation. Negative.
Marine Oil Supplements for Arthritis Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials
Marine Omega-3 reduces arthritis pain.
Effect of Acute Alcohol Ingestion on Resistance Exercise Induced mTORC1 Signaling
Alcohol after resistance training dampens anabolic signaling (mTORC1) and can hinder desired muscular adaptations.
Somatic Effects of AAS Abuse: A 30-Year Follow-Up Study of Male Weightlifters
30-year follow-up study with former AAS users. Former AAS abuse was significantly associated with tendon ruptures (p = 0.01), depression (p = 0.001), and anxiety (p = 0.01). Tendon damage persisted decades after discontinuation. Negative.
Alcohol drinking and gastric cancer risk: a meta-analysis of observational studies
75 studies. High vs. low drinking: gastric cancer RR 1.25. Non-cardia 1.19, cardia unclear. Beer 1.13, spirits 1.22, wine 0.99. Heavy drinking clearest.
Bimatoprost for the treatment of eyelash, eyebrow and scalp alopecia
Review. Bimatoprost is approved for eyelash growth. There is evidence of efficacy in eyebrow and scalp alopecia (including AGA and alopecia areata).
Resveratrol Enhances Exercise-Induced Cellular and Functional Adaptations of Skeletal Muscle in Older Men and Women
In older adults, Resveratrol combined with training improved cellular adaptations like mitochondrial biogenesis and fatigue resistance, but showed limited additional effects on strength or functional performance compared to exercise alone.
Use of Biotin for Hair Loss
Systematic literature review. Mainly case reports were found. In all cases with clinical improvement, an underlying pathology or biotin deficiency was present. The authors conclude: Despite the widespread use as a hair and nail preparation, research on the efficacy of biotin is limited. In healthy individuals without deficiency, sufficient evidence is lacking.
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to determine the efficacy and safety of lactoferrin with vitamin E and zinc as an oral therapy for mild to moderate acne vulgaris
RCT: lactoferrin + vitamin E + zinc significantly reduced acne lesions (up to 44% for inflammatory lesions) versus placebo.
Ursolic acid supplementation decreases markers of skeletal muscle damage during resistance training in resistance-trained men: a pilot study
This pilot RCT in resistance-trained men found that ursolic acid supplementation during training reduced markers of skeletal muscle damage, thereby supporting recovery and reducing training-induced stress.
Effect of consumption of chicory inulin on bowel function in healthy subjects with constipation: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Randomized, double-blind crossover study with chicory inulin in healthy constipated subjects. Stool frequency rose versus placebo and stool became softer.
The Infatuation With Biotin Supplementation: Is There Truth Behind Its Rising Popularity? A Comparative Analysis of Clinical Efficacy versus Social Popularity
The authors note that as of the time of publication, there were no clinical studies investigating the efficacy of biotin supplementation for alopecia of any kind, nor any randomized controlled trial on its effect on hair quality or quantity in humans. Due to the lack of clinical evidence, routine use for improving hair quality or quantity is not recommended. The societal enthusiasm for biotin is greatly exaggerated and disproportionate to the insufficient scientific evidence.
Coffee, caffeine, and sleep: A systematic review of epidemiological studies and randomized controlled trials
Comprehensive review. Caffeine typically prolongs sleep onset latency, shortens total sleep time and sleep efficiency, and worsens subjective sleep quality.
Effect of Intra-articular Triamcinolone vs Saline on Knee Cartilage Volume and Pain in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Clinical Trial
140 patients, every 3 months 40 mg triamcinolone vs saline over 2 years. Cartilage thickness in the index compartment: −0.21 mm vs −0.10 mm (more loss under cortisone). Pain over 2 years not better than saline.
Frontal Cortex Myo-Inositol Is Associated With Sleep and Depression in Adolescents: A Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Study
MRS study in adolescents: lower frontal-cortex myo-inositol associated with more sleep disturbances and daytime sleepiness; higher values correlated with longer sleep.
Positive effects of resistant starch supplementation on bowel function in healthy adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
RS significantly increased stool wet weight and butyrate concentration and lowered faecal pH. Stool frequency rose only trend-wise.
The role of nicotinamide in acne treatment
In most studies, significant reduction of acne lesions and sebum. Very well tolerated.
Systematic review and meta-analysis: the effects of fermented milk with Bifidobacterium lactis CNCM I-2494 and lactic acid bacteria on gastrointestinal discomfort in the general adult population
Meta-analysis of 3 double-blind RCTs (598 adults, mostly women). A fermented milk product with B. lactis CNCM I-2494 (a B. animalis subsp. lactis strain) plus lactic acid bacteria significantly improved overall GI discomfort vs control (OR 1.48; 95% CI 1.07–2.05; NNT ~10.2). The composite digestive symptom score was also reduced (SMD -0.21). Heterogeneity was low; effect moderate but consistent.
The Association of Recreational and Competitive Running With Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Meta-analysis. Recreational running was not associated with an increased risk of hip or knee osteoarthritis. Competitive or elite running showed a higher risk in some analyses. Interestingly, non-runners also had a higher risk than recreational runners in some comparisons, suggesting a possible protective effect of moderate running.
Alcohol Consumption and Gastric Cancer Risk: A Meta-Analysis
10 studies. Drinking ↔ gastric cancer OR 1.39.
An Open-Label Randomized Multicenter Study Assessing the Noninferiority of a Caffeine-Based Topical Liquid 0.2% versus Minoxidil 5% Solution in Male Androgenetic Alopecia
Randomized, open-label, multicenter non-inferiority study in 210 men with AGA. A 0.2% caffeine lotion was compared with 5% minoxidil over 6 months. The caffeine solution was non-inferior to minoxidil regarding the proportion of anagen hairs (trichogram). The authors conclude that topical caffeine can be considered as an alternative to minoxidil.
The effectiveness of treatments for androgenetic alopecia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
This systematic review confirms strong evidence for 5% topical minoxidil in men and 2% in women. All forms of minoxidil were significantly superior to placebo in hair count and density. Topical minoxidil (2% / 5% solution or foam) has been FDA-approved for decades and has the most extensive evidence.
Therapeutic Efficacy of a Combination Therapy of Topical 17α-Estradiol and Topical Minoxidil on Female Pattern Hair Loss: A Noncomparative, Retrospective Evaluation
Retrospective evaluation in 34 women with FPHL. Combination of 0.025% 17α-estradiol + 3% minoxidil once daily for at least 6 months. Total hair count and hair caliber increased significantly (p < 0.001). Photographic assessment confirmed improvement. The authors consider the combination an effective option for FPHL.
Association between smoking and risk of knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
38 studies, 481,744 people. Ever-smokers: less knee OA (RR 0.80), stronger in men, apparently dose-dependent. No proof of causality.
The Effects of Magnesium Supplementation on Subjective Anxiety and Stress—A Systematic Review
Systematic review of 18 studies. Magnesium showed positive effects on subjective anxiety in vulnerable populations (mild anxiety, PMS, hypertension) in several studies. Overall evidence quality was rather weak. No study used a validated stress measure as primary endpoint. Authors note hints of benefit but call for better RCTs.
Dietary Zinc Acts as a Sleep Modulator
Review: zinc positively modulates sleep; oral zinc improved sleep latency and quality in human studies.
Effects of Turmeric (Curcuma longa) on Skin Health: A Systematic Review of the Clinical Evidence
Curcumin (oral and topical) showed positive effects in acne, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and other inflammatory skin conditions.
Effects of Turmeric (Curcuma longa) on Skin Health: A Systematic Review of the Clinical Evidence
Curcumin (oral and topical) showed positive effects in acne, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and other inflammatory skin conditions.
Fish oil in knee osteoarthritis: a randomised clinical trial of low dose versus high dose
High dose Omega-3 showed benefits in symptomatic knee OA.
Eight Weeks of Phosphatidic Acid Supplementation in Conjunction with Resistance Training Does Not Differentially Affect Body Composition and Muscle Strength in Resistance-Trained Men
RCT with trained men. PA (250 or 375 mg/day) over 8 weeks showed no significant additional benefit over placebo for body composition and strength. Conclusion: Neutral in trained athletes.
A multicenter, randomized, double-blind trial comparing the efficacy and safety of TUDCA and UDCA in Chinese patients with primary biliary cholangitis
Ma et al., 199 PBC patients, 250 mg 3×/day TUDCA vs. UDCA, 24 weeks. ALP −25%: 75.97% vs. 80.88% (p = 0.453). ALP −40%: 55.81% vs. 52.94% (p = 0.699). ALP, AST, bilirubin equal. Pruritus under UDCA 1.43% → 10.00%, unchanged under TUDCA (p = 0.023).
Efficacy of Turmeric Extracts and Curcumin for Alleviating the Symptoms of Joint Arthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
Curcumin significantly reduces arthritis symptoms.
Functions of Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation on Liver Enzymes, Markers of Systemic Inflammation, and Adipokines in Patients Affected by Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Randomized Clinical Trial
Farsi et al., 41 NAFLD, 100 mg/day, 12 weeks. AST, GGT, hs-CRP, TNF-α, NAFLD grade improved vs. placebo (p < 0.05). Adiponectin p = 0.016, leptin p = 0.053. IL-6 n.s. Positive.
Topical adenosine increases the proportion of thick hair in Caucasian men with androgenetic alopecia
Randomized, placebo-controlled study in 38 Caucasian men with AGA. 0.75% adenosine over 6 months. The proportion of thick hairs (≥ 60 μm) increased significantly more than under placebo (p < 0.0001). The proportion of vellus hairs (< 40 μm) decreased, and hair density slightly increased. No dermatological side effects. Confirms efficacy also in Caucasians.
Effects of an intervention with drinking chamomile tea on sleep quality and depression in sleep disturbed postnatal women: a randomized controlled trial
RCT in postnatal women with sleep disturbances. Chamomile tea significantly improved sleep quality and reduced depression symptoms.
Comparison of Vitamin D Levels in Patients with and without Acne: A Case-Control Study Combined with a Randomized Controlled Trial
Acne patients had significantly lower vitamin D levels; supplementation improved acne versus placebo.
Efficacy and tolerability of an undenatured type II collagen supplement in modulating knee osteoarthritis symptoms: a multicenter randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study
UC-II significantly improved pain and function in knee OA with good tolerability.
Topical Minoxidil: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Its Efficacy in Androgenetic Alopecia
This meta-analysis examined the efficacy of topical minoxidil in androgenetic alopecia. Topical minoxidil was significantly superior to placebo in increasing hair count (non-vellus hairs +20.9 hairs/cm²), investigator assessment, and patient self-assessment. Cosmetically good results were achieved in a subset of patients. Topical minoxidil (2% / 5% solution or foam) has been FDA-approved for decades and has the most extensive evidence.
The Effects of Rhodiola rosea L. Extract on Anxiety, Stress, Cognition and Other Mood Symptoms
14-day study with Vitano® (2 × 200 mg) in mildly anxious individuals. Significant reduction of anxiety, stress, anger, confusion and depression as well as improvement of overall mood. Good tolerability.
Rosemary oil vs minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: a randomized comparative trial
Randomized comparative trial (100 patients with AGA). Rosemary oil and 2% minoxidil showed similar increases in hair count after 6 months. However, rosemary oil caused significantly less scalp itching. This is the most well-known and frequently cited study on rosemary oil for hair loss.
Blue blocker glasses as a countermeasure for alerting effects of evening light-emitting diode screen exposure in male teenagers
Study in male teenagers. Evening use of LED screens increased alertness and suppressed melatonin secretion. Wearing blue blocker glasses during screen use attenuated both melatonin suppression and the alerting effect. The authors consider blue blocker glasses a potential countermeasure for adolescents.
The Improvement of Sleep by Oral Intake of GABA and Apocynum venetum Leaf Extract
Human EEG study: 100 mg GABA shortened sleep onset latency and improved deep sleep (NREM).
In Search of a Safe Natural Sleep Aid
Review. L-Theanine is a safe, natural sleep aid. It promotes good sleep quality through anxiolytic effects and promotion of alpha brain waves without being sedating.
Evening use of light-emitting eReaders negatively affects sleep, circadian timing, and next-morning alertness
Randomized study: reading a light-emitting eReader vs. a printed book in the hours before bedtime. The eReader led to longer sleep onset latency, reduced evening sleepiness, strong melatonin suppression, delayed circadian phase, and reduced alertness the next morning.
Topical adenosine increases thick hair ratio in Japanese men with androgenetic alopecia
Double-blind, randomized study in Japanese men with AGA. 0.75% adenosine lotion vs. niacinamide over 6 months. Adenosine was significantly better regarding global improvement of AGA, proportion of thick hairs (≥ 60 μm), and subjective assessment of hair thickness. No causal side effects.
Psychological stress increases risk for peptic ulcer, regardless of Helicobacter pylori infection or use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Danish cohort, prospective. Highest vs. lowest stress tertile: ulcer 3.5% vs. 1.6%, adjusted OR 2.2. Effect persists after H. pylori, alcohol, sleep; somewhat smaller after SES, smoking, NSAIDs, exercise. Stress acted similarly in H. pylori-positive and -negative.
Efficacy and safety of ginger in osteoarthritis patients: a meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials
Ginger extract improved pain and function in OA patients with good safety.
The effects of physical activity on sleep: a meta-analytic review
Classic and frequently cited meta-analysis. Acute exercise has small positive effects on total sleep time, sleep latency, sleep efficiency, stage 1 and slow-wave sleep. Regular exercise shows moderate improvements in subjective sleep quality and smaller positive effects on objective parameters.
Ruptured Tendons in Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid Users: A Cross-Sectional Cohort Study
Cross-sectional cohort study. AAS users had approximately 9-fold higher risk of tendon ruptures compared to non-users. Upper extremity tendons (biceps, triceps, pectoralis) were particularly affected. The association remained significant after adjusting for training volume. Negative.
Ruptured Tendons in Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid Users: A Cross-Sectional Cohort Study
Cross-sectional cohort study. AAS users had approximately 9-fold higher risk of tendon ruptures compared to non-users. Upper extremity tendons (biceps, triceps, pectoralis) were particularly affected. The association remained significant after adjusting for training volume. Negative.
Effects of powdered Montmorency tart cherry supplementation on recovery from muscle damage and exercise performance
Powdered Montmorency tart cherry supplementation accelerated the recovery of muscle strength and reduced markers of muscle damage and inflammation in trained subjects, supporting performance maintenance.
Topical Turmeric Microemulgel in the Management of Plaque Psoriasis; A Clinical Evaluation
Topical curcumin microemulgel significantly improved plaque psoriasis.
Oral Curcumin (Meriva) Is Effective as an Adjuvant Treatment and Is Able to Reduce IL-22 Serum Levels in Patients with Psoriasis Vulgaris
Oral curcumin (Meriva) improved psoriasis as an adjuvant treatment and significantly reduced IL-22 levels.
The Sleep-Promoting and Hypothermic Effects of Glycine are Mediated by NMDA Receptors in the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus
RCT. Glycine promotes sleep onset and improves sleep quality via NMDA receptors in the suprachiasmatic nucleus.
Systematic review with meta-analysis: Saccharomyces boulardii in the prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhoea
Meta-analysis of 21 RCTs with 4780 participants. Saccharomyces boulardii reduced the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhoea from 18.7% to 8.5% (RR 0.47). Benefit was significant in both adults and children; for C. difficile-associated diarrhoea the effect was clearest in children.
Resveratrol supplementation does not augment performance adaptations or fibre-type–specific responses to high-intensity interval training in humans
In young, active men, 150 mg of Resveratrol daily during HIIT resulted in lower gains in peak aerobic power, VO2max, and Wingate power vs placebo. It may negatively impact training adaptations in youth.
Body mass index and knee osteoarthritis risk: a dose-response meta-analysis
12 studies, non-linear. vs BMI 22.5: at BMI 25 RR 1.59; BMI 30 RR 3.55; BMI 35 RR 7.45 for knee OA. Almost exponential rise.
Does obesity affect knee cartilage? A systematic review of magnetic resonance imaging data
Higher BMI and fat mass: more cartilage defects on MRI. Evidence consistent, but not everywhere high cohort quality.
Effect of pumpkin seed oil on hair growth in men with androgenetic alopecia: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in men with mild to moderate AGA. 400 mg pumpkin seed oil daily for 24 weeks. Hair count increased by 40% in the treatment group vs. 10% in the placebo group (p < 0.001). Self-assessment and satisfaction were also significantly better. Adverse effects did not differ from placebo. This is the best-known and most frequently cited study on oral pumpkin seed oil.
Anti-stress effects of lemon balm-containing foods
Two double-blind crossover studies in healthy young adults. Lemon balm extract in drink or yogurt improved mood and cognitive performance after multi-tasking stress. Effects also on salivary cortisol. Actions dose- and matrix-dependent.
Zinc Therapy in Dermatology: A Review
Topical zinc formulations (including oxide-containing) are effective for mild to moderate acne through anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects.
Alcohol ingestion impairs maximal post-exercise rates of myofibrillar protein synthesis following a single bout of concurrent training
Alcohol consumption after training significantly reduces muscle protein synthesis – even when protein is co-ingested.
Alcohol impairs skeletal muscle protein synthesis and mTOR signaling in a time-dependent manner following electrically stimulated muscle contraction
Alcohol suppresses muscle protein synthesis for at least 12 hours and strongly impairs anabolic signaling.
The hepatoprotective and hypolipidemic effects of Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) supplementation in a Cretan population with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a prospective pilot study
Mazokopakis et al., 15 NAFLD, 6 g/day, 6 months, no placebo. AST −38.5%, ALT −37.5%, GGT −26.7%, TG −24.8%, LDL −9.6%, TC −9.1%, weight −8.1%, HOMA-IR −19.6%. HDL +4.2%. Ultrasound unchanged. Positive (pilot, uncontrolled).
The impact of alcohol on recovery and sports performance in male athletes
Acute alcohol consumption can negatively affect immune, hormonal, and protein synthesis functions and impair recovery.
Effectiveness of inulin intake on indicators of chronic constipation; a meta-analysis of controlled randomized clinical trials
5 RCTs, 252 participants. Inulin improved stool frequency, stool consistency (Bristol) and transit time. Pain and bloating did not improve.
Effects of L-serine ingestion on human sleep
Placebo-controlled EEG study: L-serine before bedtime significantly shortened sleep onset latency and improved subjective sleep quality.
Adverse Health Consequences of Performance-Enhancing Drugs: An Endocrine Society Scientific Statement
Endocrine Society scientific statement on adverse health consequences of performance-enhancing drugs. AAS use is associated with tendon ruptures, joint damage, and musculoskeletal injuries. Additionally cardiovascular, hepatic, and psychiatric side effects. Tendons are structurally altered and more susceptible to injury. Negative.
Adverse Health Consequences of Performance-Enhancing Drugs: An Endocrine Society Scientific Statement
Endocrine Society scientific statement on adverse health consequences of performance-enhancing drugs. AAS use is associated with tendon ruptures, joint damage, and musculoskeletal injuries. Additionally cardiovascular, hepatic, and psychiatric side effects. Tendons are structurally altered and more susceptible to injury. Negative.
Higher dietary choline intake is associated with lower risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver in normal-weight Chinese women
56,195 Chinese, 40–75 years. Intake women 289 mg/day, men 318. Highest vs. lowest quintile: OR 0.68 / 0.75; after BMI often n.s. (0.88 / 0.85). Normal-weight women OR 0.72, overweight 1.05. Slightly positive (observational).
Oral coenzyme Q10 supplementation in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: effects on serum vaspin, chemerin, pentraxin 3, insulin resistance and oxidative stress
Farhangi et al., 44 NAFLD, 100 mg vs. placebo, 4 weeks. Waist, AST and TAC decreased in the CoQ10 group (p < 0.05), placebo n.s. Slightly positive.
Phosphatidic acid enhances mTOR signaling and resistance exercise induced hypertrophy
RCT with 28 resistance-trained men (8 weeks training + 750 mg PA/day). The PA group showed significantly greater gains in lean body mass (+2.4 kg), muscle cross-sectional area and leg press strength compared to placebo. Conclusion: PA activates mTOR and improves hypertrophy and strength during resistance training.
Higher body mass index is associated with greater severity of alopecia in men with male-pattern androgenetic alopecia in Taiwan: a cross-sectional study
Cross-sectional study in men with AGA. Men with severe alopecia (grade V–VII) had a higher BMI than men with mild to moderate alopecia. Overweight/obesity (BMI ≥ 24) markedly increased the risk of severe alopecia (OR 3.52). In early-onset AGA the effect was even stronger (OR 4.97).
An acute, double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over study of 320 mg and 640 mg doses of Bacopa monnieri (CDRI 08) on multitasking stress reactivity and mood
Acute crossover study. 320 mg and 640 mg CDRI 08 (KeenMind®). Positive cognitive effects (letter search, Stroop) within 1–2 hours. Also positive mood effects and reduced salivary cortisol after multitasking stress.
Meta-analysis: melatonin for the treatment of primary sleep disorders
Meta-analysis. Significant reduction in sleep onset latency, increase in total sleep duration, and improvement in sleep quality.
The contribution of endogenous and exogenous factors to male alopecia: a study of identical twins
Twin study. Longer smoking duration was significantly associated with increased frontal and vertex hair loss.
The contribution of endogenous and exogenous factors to male alopecia: a study of identical twins
Study in identical twins. Consumption of more than four alcoholic drinks per week was associated with increased temporal and vertex hair loss. At the same time, some analyses also showed an association between abstinence and hair thinning. Exogenous factors (including alcohol) can influence hair loss in addition to genetic predisposition.
Anti-stress effect of theanine on students during pharmacy practice: positive correlation among salivary alpha-amylase activity, trait anxiety and subjective stress
Single-blind study in pharmacy students during a stressful practice phase. 200 mg theanine twice daily vs. placebo. In the theanine group, morning salivary alpha-amylase (marker of sympathetic activity) was lower and subjective stress was significantly lower. Higher pre-practice alpha-amylase levels correlated with higher trait anxiety and shorter sleep duration.
Undenatured type II collagen (UC-II®) for joint support: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in healthy volunteers
UC-II improved joint function and reduced pain during athletic activity.
Effect of Magnolia officinalis and Phellodendron amurense (Relora®) on cortisol and psychological mood state in moderately stressed subjects
4-week double-blind placebo-controlled study in 56 moderately stressed individuals. Relora® (Magnolia + Phellodendron) significantly reduced salivary cortisol exposure by 18% vs placebo. Multiple mood parameters improved: total stress (−11%), tension (−13%), depression (−20%), anger (−42%), fatigue (−31%), confusion (−27%), and vigor rose (+18%).
Efficacy and safety of tauroursodeoxycholic acid in the treatment of liver cirrhosis: a double-blind randomized controlled trial
Pan et al., 23 cirrhosis patients, 18 analyzed (9 each). 750 mg TUDCA vs. UDCA, 6 months. TUDCA: ALT, AST, ALP down vs. baseline; UDCA only AST. Albumin up in both. Fibrosis markers n.s. One histological improvement under TUDCA.
A systematic review of benzoyl peroxide for acne vulgaris
Good efficacy demonstrated for mild to moderate acne in most comparative studies.
Effects of oral adenosine-5′-triphosphate supplementation on athletic performance, skeletal muscle hypertrophy and recovery in resistance-trained men
Supplementing with 400 mg PEAK ATP daily for 12 weeks significantly increased lean body mass, strength, power, and muscle thickness in resistance-trained men. It also enhanced recovery during overreaching.
Does smoking reduce the progression of osteoarthritis? Meta-analysis of observational studies
16 studies. No convincing protection against OA progression (OR 0.92, n.s.).
The clinical effects of zinc as a topical or oral agent on the clinical response and pathophysiologic mechanisms of acne: a systematic review of the literature
Oral and topical zinc preparations have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and sebum-reducing effects in acne (evidence strength B).
Aqueous extract of dried fruit of Berberis vulgaris L. in acne vulgaris, a clinical trial
Oral aqueous extract of dried fruits of Berberis vulgaris (600 mg daily for 4 weeks) significantly reduced non-inflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesions as well as Michaelson severity grade (approx. 43–45% reduction) compared to placebo. The treatment was safe and well tolerated.
Pycnogenol® effects on skin elasticity and hydration coincide with increased gene expressions of collagen type I and hyaluronic acid synthase in women
In this study with 20 postmenopausal women, oral Pycnogenol supplementation for 12 weeks significantly improved skin hydration and elasticity. These effects were particularly strong in women with dry skin at baseline. Simultaneously, mRNA expression of hyaluronic acid synthase-1 (HAS-1) and collagen type I increased markedly. The authors conclude that Pycnogenol promotes the synthesis of extracellular matrix components (hyaluronic acid and collagen), thereby counteracting clinical signs of skin aging.
Efficacy of phosphatidic acid ingestion on lean body mass, muscle thickness and strength gains in resistance-trained men
RCT with 14 resistance-trained men (8 weeks training + 750 mg PA/day). PA showed likely benefits for lean body mass (+2.6%) and squat strength (+12.7%). Conclusion: Positive for muscle mass and lower body strength. Limitations: Small sample size.
Cosmetic and dermatologic use of alpha hydroxy acids
Review: AHAs (especially glycolic and lactic acid) promote epidermal renewal, stimulate collagen and improve wrinkles, elasticity and radiance.
New therapeutic strategy for amino acid medicine: glycine improves sleep quality
RCT in individuals with insomnia tendencies. Glycine significantly improved subjective sleep quality.
Individual NSAIDs and Upper Gastrointestinal Complications: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies (the SOS Project)
Observational meta-analysis of individual NSAIDs vs. non-use. RR of upper GI complications: celecoxib 1.45, ibuprofen 1.84, diclofenac 3.34, naproxen 4.10, piroxicam 7.43, ketorolac 11.50. High dose 2–3× higher RR than low dose.
Palmitoylethanolamide versus a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug in the treatment of temporomandibular joint inflammatory pain
PEA was comparably effective to an NSAID in inflammatory joint pain (TMJ).
Oral administration of polymer hyaluronic acid alleviates symptoms of knee osteoarthritis: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study over a 12-month period
Oral hyaluronic acid improved symptoms in knee OA over 12 months.
Clay jojoba oil facial mask for lesioned skin and mild acne–results of a prospective, observational pilot study
Clay-jojoba mask reduced total lesions by 54% in mild acne (significant improvement in inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions).
Glutamine and whey protein improve intestinal permeability and morphology in patients with Crohn's disease: a randomized controlled trial
Small RCT. Glutamine and whey protein improved permeability and mucosal morphology in Crohn's disease.
Rosehip - an evidence based herbal medicine for inflammation and osteoarthritis
Rosehip powder consistently reduced pain scores and improved quality of life in OA.
Cutaneous melanoma attributable to sunbed use: systematic review and meta-analysis
27 human studies. Sunbed ever: RR 1.20 melanoma. Use before age 35: RR 1.87. Plus higher squamous cell carcinoma risk.
Choline intake in a large cohort of patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Guerrerio et al., NASH CRN, 664 biopsies + FFQ. Deficiency = <50% of adequate intake. Postmenopausal women with deficiency: stronger fibrosis (p = 0.002). Children, men, premenopausal n.s. Positive (only postmenopausal women).
The effect of magnesium supplementation on primary insomnia in elderly: A double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial
Double-blind placebo-controlled RCT with 46 older adults (≥60 y) with primary insomnia. 500 mg magnesium oxide/day for 8 weeks. Significant improvement in ISI score, sleep efficiency, sleep time and sleep onset latency vs. placebo. Positive.
Evaluation of efficacy and safety of finasteride 1 mg in 3177 Japanese men with androgenetic alopecia
Large Japanese observational study in 3177 men. Confirms efficacy and safety of finasteride 1 mg in an Asian population under real-world conditions.
Comparitive effectiveness of finasteride vs Serenoa repens in male androgenetic alopecia: a two-year study
Open-label comparative study in 100 men with mild to moderate AGA over 24 months. One group received 320 mg Serenoa repens daily, the other 1 mg finasteride. Only 38% of saw palmetto patients showed an increase in hair growth, compared to 68% with finasteride. Saw palmetto stabilized the course rather than inducing strong regrowth.
Topical melatonin for treatment of androgenetic alopecia
Summary of five clinical human studies with a topical melatonin solution in men and women with AGA or general hair loss. Pharmacodynamics: No significant influence on endogenous serum melatonin levels with evening application. Observational study (30 subjects): Marked reduction in alopecia severity after 30 and 90 days. TrichoScan study (35 men): +29% hair count density after 3 months and +41% after 6 months in over half of the patients (significant). Further study (60 subjects): Significant reduction in hair loss, especially in women. Large multicenter study (>1800 subjects): The positive hair-pull test decreased from 61.6% to 7.8%, the negative test increased from 12.2% to 61.5%. Tolerability was good in all studies.
A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled pilot study to assess the efficacy of a 24-week topical treatment by latanoprost 0.1% on hair growth and pigmentation in healthy volunteers with androgenetic alopecia
Randomized, double-blind pilot study in 16 men with mild AGA (Hamilton II–III). Latanoprost 0.1% vs. placebo were applied to two small scalp areas for 24 weeks. Latanoprost significantly increased hair density (terminal and vellus hairs) after 24 weeks compared to baseline and placebo.
How smoking affects sleep: a polysomnographical analysis
Polysomnography comparison. Smokers rated their sleep quality subjectively worse (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index); objective differences were partly less pronounced.
The Efficacy and Safety of 17α-Estradiol (Ell-Cranell® alpha 0.025%) Solution on Female Pattern Hair Loss: Single Center, Open-Label, Non-Comparative, Phase IV Study
Open-label Phase IV study in 53 Korean women with FPHL. Ell-Cranell 0.025% applied once daily for 8 months. Hair count and hair diameter increased significantly after 4 and 8 months (p < 0.0001). Subjective and photographic assessments also showed improvement. The solution was well tolerated over 8 months.
Alcohol consumption and psoriatic risk: a meta-analysis of case-control studies
15 case-control studies. Drinkers vs non-drinkers: OR 1.53 for psoriasis.
Efficacy and tolerability of oral lactoferrin supplementation in mild to moderate acne vulgaris: an exploratory study
Oral lactoferrin was well tolerated and led to marked improvement of acne lesions in mild-to-moderate acne.
The effectiveness and efficacy of Rhodiola rosea L.: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials
Review of 11 placebo-controlled RCTs. Rhodiola may have positive effects on physical and mental performance and certain psychological states. Methodological quality mostly moderate to good. Independent replications were lacking.
The effect of melatonin, magnesium, and zinc on primary insomnia in long-term care facility residents in Italy: a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Double-blind placebo-controlled RCT with long-term care facility residents (≥60 y) with primary insomnia. Nightly administration of melatonin (5 mg), magnesium (225 mg) and zinc (11.25 mg) for 8 weeks. Significant improvement in sleep quality (PSQI) and quality of life vs. placebo. Positive.
Effect of kiwifruit consumption on sleep quality in adults with sleep disturbances
Adults with sleep disturbances ate 2 kiwifruits daily 1h before bedtime for 4 weeks. Significantly shorter sleep onset latency, less wake time, longer sleep duration and higher sleep efficiency; subjective sleep quality also improved.
Efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane supplementation on osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized controlled study
MSM improved symptoms in knee OA.
Preliminary examination of the efficacy and safety of a standardized chamomile extract for chronic primary insomnia: a randomized placebo-controlled pilot study
Pilot RCT in chronic primary insomnia. No significant differences in most sleep parameters. Only a trend toward improved daytime functioning.
Reduced melanoma after regular sunscreen use: randomized trial follow-up
Nambour follow-up 10 years after end. Daily sunscreen: 11 vs 22 melanomas (HR 0.50, borderline). Invasive melanomas clearly fewer (HR 0.27).
A double-blind, placebo-controlled investigation of the effects of Passiflora incarnata (passionflower) herbal tea on subjective sleep quality
Study with passionflower tea over 1 week. Significantly better subjective sleep quality compared to placebo tea.
Efficacy of cream-based novel formulations of hyaluronic acid of different molecular weights in anti-wrinkle treatment
0.1% hyaluronic acid (different molecular weights) significantly improved skin moisture and elasticity; low-molecular-weight HA reduced wrinkles.
Dietary effect of lactoferrin-enriched fermented milk on skin surface lipid and clinical improvement of acne vulgaris
RCT: lactoferrin-enriched fermented milk reduced skin surface lipids and improved acne clinically significantly.
The potential therapeutic effect of melatonin in Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease
Small study (4 groups of 9). Melatonin alone or plus omeprazole improved reflux symptoms. Omeprazole alone was more effective than melatonin alone.
Smoking and skin disease
Narrative review. Smoking is considered a cofactor in systemic lupus, psoriasis, palmoplantar pustulosis, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, hidradenitis suppurativa and condylomata. Conversely, in the literature rather protective in pemphigus vulgaris, pyoderma gangrenosum, aphthae and Behçet. Degenerative: wrinkles and impaired wound healing (more surgical complications, slower chronic wounds). Mechanism per authors: oxidative stress → inflammatory cells and matrix turnover.
Effect of the glycemic index of carbohydrates on Acne vulgaris
58 adolescents, low- vs high-GI. Acne improved in both arms; difference between diets n.s. GI spread small, no weight loss.
Magnesium supplementation improves indicators of low magnesium status and inflammatory stress in adults older than 51 years with poor quality sleep
RCT with 100 adults (>51 y) with poor sleep quality (PSQI >5). 320 mg magnesium citrate/day for 7 weeks. Improved sleep quality and reduced inflammatory markers (CRP) vs. placebo. Slightly positive.
The effect of mastic gum on Helicobacter pylori: a randomized pilot study
Randomized pilot study in 52 patients with H. pylori infection. Pure mastic gum (350 mg or 1.05 g 3× daily for 14 days) showed bactericidal activity in vivo. Eradication rates were ~30–38% (vs 77% with standard triple therapy). There was a trend toward reduced urea breath test values. Tolerability was good.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of Saccharomyces boulardii in adult patients
Systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs available up to 2009 in adults. Strongest evidence was for prevention of antibiotic-associated and travellers' diarrhoea. Further positive signals for enteral-nutrition diarrhoea and reduction of H. pylori therapy side effects. Data for IBS, C. difficile recurrence and other indications remained more limited.
Meta-analysis comparing efficacy of benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, benzoyl peroxide with salicylic acid, and combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin in acne
Meta-analysis: 5% benzoyl peroxide + salicylic acid showed greater reduction of inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions in early weeks.
Efficacy and safety of finasteride therapy for androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review
Systematic review of 12 studies (3927 men). Finasteride increased hair count and improved subjective and investigator assessment both short- and long-term (moderate evidence quality). Relative risk for erectile dysfunction: 2.22 (number needed to harm approx. 82). The risk of discontinuing therapy due to sexual side effects was comparable to placebo.
N-acetylcysteine improves liver function in patients with non-alcoholic Fatty liver disease
Khoshbaten et al., 30 NAFLD patients, NAC vs. vitamin C, 3 months. ALT dropped more clearly under NAC, independent of steatosis grade. Spleen span smaller. Small, open-label.
Effects of glucosamine, chondroitin, or placebo in patients with osteoarthritis of hip or knee: network meta-analysis
Moderate effect on pain and function in hip and knee OA.
Pioglitazone, Vitamin E, or Placebo for Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis
247 NASH patients without diabetes, 96 weeks. Vitamin E 800 IU: histological improvement 43% vs. 19% placebo (p = 0.001). Pioglitazone 34% vs. 19% (p = 0.04, primary n.s.). ALT/AST down, steatosis and inflammation better, fibrosis n.s. NCT00063622.
Effects of nicotine on sleep during consumption, withdrawal and replacement therapy
Comprehensive review. During nicotine consumption, the following typically occur: prolonged sleep onset latency, sleep fragmentation, reduced deep sleep (slow-wave sleep / N3), decreased sleep efficiency, REM sleep suppression, and increased daytime sleepiness. Smoking is also associated with sleep-related breathing disorders. Withdrawal symptoms and nicotine replacement therapy can additionally disturb sleep.
A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study of the standardised extract SHR-5 of the roots of Rhodiola rosea in the treatment of subjects with stress-related fatigue
Classic RCT with SHR-5 extract (576 mg/day) over 28 days in subjects with stress-related fatigue. Rhodiola significantly improved the burnout scale (Pines), concentration, and reduced the cortisol response to awakening stress versus placebo.
Comparison of clinical efficacies of sodium ascorbyl phosphate, retinol and their combination in acne treatment
0.2% retinol reduced inflammatory acne lesions by approximately 50% after 8 weeks.
Beneficial effects of resistant starch on laxation in healthy adults
Crossover RCT. RS3 increased daily stool mass versus baseline. Wheat bran increased stool mass even more. Stool frequency remained unchanged.
Does the hip powder of Rosa canina (rosehip) reduce pain in osteoarthritis patients?–a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Rosehip powder significantly reduced pain in OA patients.
The clinical effectiveness of Ginger (Zingiber officinale) in adults with osteoarthritis
Ginger showed positive effects in OA.
Adenosine increases anagen hair growth and thick hairs in Japanese women with female pattern hair loss: a pilot, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial
Double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study in 30 Japanese women with female pattern hair loss. 0.75% adenosine lotion 2× daily for 12 months. Adenosine was significantly superior to placebo (assessment by dermatologists, investigators, and self-evaluation). It increased the anagen growth rate and the proportion of thick hairs. No side effects.
Systematic review of the nutritional supplements dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) in the treatment of osteoarthritis
MSM showed positive effects on OA symptoms in the analyzed human studies.
Effects of a standardized Bacopa monnieri extract on cognitive performance, anxiety, and depression in the elderly: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
12-week RCT in older adults (≥65). 300 mg/day standardized extract. Bacopa improved delayed word recall and Stroop performance. Anxiety (STAI) and depression scores and heart rate fell in the Bacopa group while rising in placebo.
Effect of a proprietary Magnolia and Phellodendron extract on stress levels in healthy women: a pilot, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
6-week pilot study in healthy overweight premenopausal women with elevated anxiety tendencies. Relora® (250 mg 3× daily) significantly reduced temporary (state) anxiety vs placebo. No significant differences in long-term trait anxiety or cortisol.
Passiflora for anxiety disorder (Cochrane Review)
Older Cochrane review. Only 2 studies were eligible. One showed comparable efficacy to oxazepam in generalized anxiety disorder with similar dropout rates. Due to the small number of studies, no robust conclusions were possible.
A meta-analysis of the analgesic effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation for inflammatory joint pain
Omega-3 has analgesic effects in inflammatory joint pain (including RA and OA).
Efficacy of topical azelaic acid gel in the treatment of mild-moderate acne vulgaris
20% azelaic acid gel reduced total lesions by 60.6% vs. 19.9% placebo (significant).
Stress, social support, and delayed skin barrier recovery
85 healthy, Trier social stress test after tape-stripping. Stress: ~10% slower barrier recovery after 2 h. Laboratory support beforehand without effect.
Study of psychological stress, sebum production and acne vulgaris in adolescents
94 adolescents, exam vs vacation. More stress ↔ more severe papulopustular acne. Sebum amount not higher — so not simply 'more grease'.
The efficacy of 5% topical tea tree oil gel in mild to moderate acne vulgaris: a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study
In 60 patients, 5% tea tree oil gel was 3.55-fold more effective in total lesion count and 5.75-fold more effective in acne severity index than placebo. Side effects comparable and well tolerated.
Comparison of the efficacy and safety of topical minoxidil and topical alfatradiol in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in women
Randomized comparative trial in women with androgenetic alopecia. 2% minoxidil significantly increased hair count and thickness. Alfatradiol mainly slowed and stabilized hair loss – hair count and thickness parameters remained largely unchanged. After switching from alfatradiol to minoxidil, marked improvement was observed. Both preparations were well tolerated.
The effect of five weeks of Tribulus terrestris supplementation on muscle strength and body composition during preseason training in elite rugby league players
RCT with 22 elite rugby league players (5 weeks, 450 mg/day). Tribulus terrestris showed no additional effect on muscle strength or lean body mass compared to placebo. Conclusion: No ergogenic benefit for strength or body composition.
The clinical effectiveness of rosehip powder in patients with osteoarthritis
In two double-blind, randomized studies with over 200 patients, rosehip powder showed a moderate positive effect. In the crossover study, 66% reported pain reduction with rosehip vs 35% with placebo. No significant difference in analgesic consumption.
A low-glycemic-load diet improves symptoms in acne vulgaris patients: a randomized controlled trial
43 young men, 12 weeks. Low glycemic load vs high-carbohydrate. Lesions −23.5 vs −12.0. Simultaneously weight loss and better insulin sensitivity — effect not only 'sugar'.
Azelaic acid in the treatment of papulopustular rosacea: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Review: azelaic acid (15–20%) significantly reduced inflammatory lesions and erythema in papulopustular rosacea.
Efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) in osteoarthritis pain of the knee: a pilot clinical trial
MSM significantly reduced knee OA pain.
Devil's Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) as a treatment for osteoarthritis: a review of efficacy and safety
Good evidence for pain relief with a better safety profile than many NSAIDs.
Valerian-hops combination and diphenhydramine for treating insomnia: a randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial
RCT: the valerian-hops combination showed a modest hypnotic effect and improved sleep quality versus placebo.
Topical palmitoyl pentapeptide provides improvement in photoaged skin
Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Pal-KTTKS) significantly reduced wrinkles and fine lines compared to placebo in photoaged skin.
Milk thistle for alcoholic and/or hepatitis B or C liver diseases–a systematic cochrane hepato-biliary group review with meta-analyses of randomized clinical trials
Rambaldi et al., 13 RCTs, 915 patients. Mortality RR 0.78 n.s. Liver-related death across all trials RR 0.50, n.s. in high-quality trials (RR 0.57). No effect on complications/histology. Quality often low.
Melatonin improves bowel symptoms in female patients with irritable bowel syndrome: a double-blind placebo-controlled study
Small RCT in women only. Melatonin relieved bowel symptoms versus placebo.
A powder made from seeds and shells of a rose-hip subspecies (Rosa canina) reduces symptoms of knee and hip osteoarthritis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
The standardized powder clearly improved symptoms in knee and hip OA.
Melatonin improves abdominal pain in irritable bowel syndrome patients who have sleep disturbances: a randomised, double blind, placebo controlled study
RCT in IBS with sleep disturbances. 3 mg melatonin improved abdominal pain, without sleep clearly being the only mechanism.
Harpagophytum procumbens for osteoarthritis and low back pain: a systematic review
Devil's Claw (50–100 mg harpagoside/day) showed good efficacy in knee and hip OA as well as low back pain.
Effect of a cetylated fatty acid topical cream on functional mobility and quality of life of patients with osteoarthritis
Topical CFA cream significantly improved knee mobility, function and quality of life in OA patients.
Melatonin increases anagen hair rate in women with androgenetic alopecia or diffuse alopecia: results of a pilot randomized controlled trial
Pilot RCT in women with androgenetic or diffuse alopecia. Topical melatonin significantly increased the proportion of anagen hairs compared to placebo. This was one of the first controlled human studies showing a positive effect on the hair cycle.
Artichoke leaf extract reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and improves quality of life in otherwise healthy volunteers suffering from concomitant dyspepsia: a subset analysis
Post-hoc analysis. IBS frequency fell, bowel habit normalised, dyspepsia score and quality of life improved. Open study, no placebo.
The effects of minoxidil, 1% pyrithione zinc and a combination of both on hair density: a randomized controlled trial
Randomized controlled trial. A 1% zinc pyrithione shampoo showed a moderate and sustained improvement in hair count over 26 weeks. The combination with minoxidil was partially advantageous.
Structural and symptomatic efficacy of glucosamine and chondroitin in knee osteoarthritis: a comprehensive meta-analysis
Both symptomatic and structural (chondroprotective) effects.
Efficacy of artichoke leaf extract in the treatment of patients with functional dyspepsia: a six-week placebo-controlled, double-blind, multicentre trial
Double-blind, placebo-controlled multicentre RCT in 247 patients with functional dyspepsia. Commercial artichoke leaf extract (2×320 mg, 3× daily) or placebo for 6 weeks. Overall dyspepsia symptom improvement was greater with extract than placebo (8.3 ± 4.6 vs 6.7 ± 4.8; P < 0.01). Quality of life (Nepean Dyspepsia Index) also improved more (−41.1 vs −24.8; P < 0.01). Analysis of 244 patients (intention-to-treat).
The response of skin disease to stress: changes in the severity of acne vulgaris as affected by examination stress
22 students, exam vs no exam. Acne grade and perceived stress both higher in the exam period. Association remained after adjusting for sleep and food (r = 0.61).
Randomized double blind trial of an extract from the pentacyclic alkaloid-chemotype of uncaria tomentosa for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis
The extract significantly improved symptoms and inflammatory parameters in rheumatoid arthritis.
Nudging hair shedding by antidandruff shampoos. A comparison of 1% ketoconazole, 1% piroctone olamine and 1% zinc pyrithione formulations
Study in 150 men with telogen effluvium in androgenetic alopecia + dandruff. 1% zinc pyrithione shampoo reduced hair fall by approximately 10% and increased the anagen proportion. Ketoconazole and piroctone olamine were partially somewhat stronger.
Long-term (5-year) multinational experience with finasteride 1 mg in the treatment of men with androgenetic alopecia
5-year data from the multinational Phase III studies. The positive effects on hair growth and slowing of progression were maintained over 5 years. The treatment was well tolerated in the long term.
Investigation of topical application of procyanidin B-2 from apple to identify its potential use as a hair growing agent
Double-blind, placebo-controlled study. 1% procyanidin B-2 tonic was applied topically for 6 months. The increase in total hair count in the treated area was significantly higher than under placebo (6.68 vs. 0.08 hairs / 0.25 cm²). Terminal hairs (> 60 µm) also increased significantly. The authors consider procyanidin B-2 a safe and promising option for male hair loss.
Artichoke leaf extract reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in a post-marketing surveillance study
Post-marketing surveillance. A subgroup with IBS symptoms showed fewer complaints and good tolerability. No placebo control.
Psychological stress perturbs epidermal permeability barrier homeostasis: implications for the pathogenesis of stress-associated skin disorders
Students, exam vs vacation. After tape-stripping the barrier heals more slowly under stress. Those with the greatest stress increase recovered worst.
Stress-induced changes in skin barrier function in healthy women
Healthy women. Interview stress and sleep deprivation delay barrier recovery. Interview raised plasma cortisol. Exercise alone did not. Cytokines inversely related to recovery.
Passionflower in the treatment of generalized anxiety: a pilot double-blind randomized controlled trial with oxazepam
Double-blind pilot study in generalized anxiety disorder. Passiflora extract was comparable to oxazepam in reducing anxiety, with less impairment of job performance in the Passiflora group.
Early androgenetic alopecia as a marker of insulin resistance
Classic case-control study in men (19–50 years). Men with early-onset AGA (< 35 years) had a markedly increased risk of hyperinsulinemia and insulin-resistance-associated disorders (obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia). The authors suggest that early-onset AGA could be a clinical marker for insulin resistance.
A randomized, placebo-controlled, cross-over study of ginger extracts and ibuprofen in osteoarthritis
In the crossover analysis, no statistically significant difference was found between ginger extract and placebo. Ibuprofen ranked best, followed by ginger extract and placebo. Exploratory analyses of the first treatment period showed a better effect of ginger extract compared to placebo.
Double-blind randomized controlled trial of glutamine-enriched polymeric diet in the treatment of active Crohn's disease
A glutamine-enriched polymeric diet was not superior to a standard polymeric diet in active Crohn's disease.
Effect of Korean red ginseng on psychological functions in patients with severe climacteric syndromes
Study in postmenopausal women with severe climacteric symptoms. Korean Red Ginseng (6 g/day for 30 days) reduced anxiety and stress scores (STAI and CMI) and improved the cortisol/DHEA-S ratio.
Daily sunscreen application and betacarotene supplementation in prevention of basal-cell and squamous-cell carcinomas of the skin: a randomised controlled trial
Nambour, 1621 adults, 2×2: daily SPF-15+ sunscreen (head, neck, arms, hands) ± 30 mg beta-carotene, 4.5 years. 1383 with skin examination; 250 people with 758 new skin cancers. First new cancers (people): daily sunscreen vs not daily — basal cell carcinoma RR 1.03 (0.73–1.46), squamous cell carcinoma RR 0.88 (0.50–1.56), both n.s. Beta-carotene vs placebo: basal cell RR 1.04, squamous cell RR 1.35, both n.s. Tumor count: basal cell unchanged. Squamous cell lower under daily sunscreen — 1115 vs 1832 per 100,000, RR 0.61 (0.46–0.81). Authors' conclusion: daily sunscreen lowers the number of squamous cell carcinomas, not basal cell. Beta-carotene no benefit and no harm.
Stimulation of Collagen Synthesis by the Anabolic Steroid Stanozolol
In vitro study with human dermal fibroblasts. Stanozolol stimulated collagen synthesis and cell replication. Although this appears superficially positive, reviews suggest that AAS-induced collagen increase is accompanied by reduced cross-linking and increased brittleness, making tendons more prone to rupture. Neutral.
Finasteride in the treatment of men with androgenetic alopecia
Two large 1-year RCTs with a total of 1553 men (18–41 years) plus 2-year extension studies. Finasteride 1 mg/day led to clinically significant increases in hair count (107 hairs after 1 year and 138 hairs after 2 years compared to placebo in a 5.1 cm² measurement area). Placebo patients continued to lose hair. Improvements were confirmed by patient self-evaluation, investigator assessment, and photo assessments. Side effects were minimal.
Stimulation of Collagen Synthesis by the Anabolic Steroid Stanozolol
In vitro study with human dermal fibroblasts. Stanozolol stimulated collagen synthesis and cell replication. Although this appears superficially positive, reviews suggest that AAS-induced collagen increase is accompanied by reduced cross-linking and increased brittleness, making tendons more prone to rupture. Neutral.
A comparison of the efficacy and tolerability of adapalene 0.1% gel versus tretinoin 0.025% gel in patients with acne vulgaris: a meta-analysis of five randomized trials
Adapalene was equally effective as tretinoin but significantly better tolerated and faster acting.
Digital image analysis of the effect of topically applied linoleic acid on acne microcomedones
2.5% topical linoleic acid objectively reduced microcomedone size by approximately 25%.
Randomized trial of aromatherapy. Successful treatment for alopecia areata
Randomized trial for alopecia areata. A mixture of essential oils (thyme, rosemary, lavender, cedarwood) in carrier oils was significantly more effective than plain carrier oil (44% vs. 15% improvement). Rosemary was part of the active blend.
Pathophysiology of premature skin aging induced by ultraviolet light
59 fair-skinned adults. UV on buttock skin, biopsy irradiated vs unirradiated. A single UV dose raises collagenase, 92-kd gelatinase and stromelysin. Breakdown of type-I collagen fibrils +58%. Four UV doses two days apart: collagenase/gelatinase remain elevated for 7 days. Tretinoin beforehand: MMP induction −70 to −80%, the MMP inhibitor TIMP-1 remains unaffected.
Tauroursodeoxycholic acid for treatment of primary biliary cirrhosis. A dose-response study
Crosignani et al., 24 PBC patients, 500/1000/1500 mg/day, 6 months. Enzymes down from month 1 at all doses; 1000 and 1500 mg continued to improve over time. Total and HDL cholesterol down only at higher doses. Diarrhea the only AE. Recommendation ~10 mg/kg/day.
Topical 8% glycolic acid and 8% L-lactic acid creams for the treatment of photodamaged skin
RCT: 8% glycolic acid and 8% lactic acid significantly improved signs of photodamaged skin (wrinkles, roughness, discoloration).
Epidermal and dermal effects of topical lactic acid
Study: 12% lactic acid increased epidermal and dermal firmness and thickness and clinically improved smoothness and lines/wrinkles.
Digestion and physiological properties of resistant starch in the human large bowel
Comparison of different RS sources (potato, banana, wheat, maize). RS increased stool weight and SCFA excretion. RS2 delivered more acetate, RS3 more propionate. Fermentation was incomplete in some individuals.
Effect of resistant starch on fecal bulk and fermentation-dependent events in humans
Crossover study. High RS intake (~39 g/day) increased stool mass, lowered pH and raised acetate and butyrate excretion. Participants reported more flatulence but easier defecation.
Facial wrinkling in men and women, by smoking status
HMO: 299 never-smokers, 551 ex, 286 current smokers, 30–69 years; analysis mainly >=40 years. After age, sun exposure and BMI: current smokers vs never-smokers — moderate/severe wrinkles RR 2.3 (men), 3.1 (women). Pack-years correlate with wrinkle score. Additional risk equals about 1.4 years of visible aging.
Performance decrements with high-intensity resistance exercise overtraining
A high-intensity overtraining protocol in resistance training led to measurable strength losses.
Cigarette smoking: risk factor for premature facial wrinkling
132 adults. After age, sex, sun: >50 pack-years → 4.7-fold more premature wrinkles. Sun + smoking multiplicative (prevalence ratio ~12).
Sleep deprivation and the effect on exercise performance
Sleep deprivation worsens time to exhaustion and impairs physical performance.
Effects of L-tryptophan on sleepiness and on sleep
Classic review of controlled human studies. Doses of 1 g or more of L-tryptophan increase subjective sleepiness and reduce sleep onset latency. Positive effects especially in mild insomnia.
Oral zinc sulphate therapy in acne vulgaris: a double-blind trial
Oral zinc sulphate therapy led to significant acne improvement in 58% of patients after 12 weeks.