A new study by Newcastle University has shown that milk produced by cows on organic farms is more nutritious than conventional milk. Researchers found that organic milk has significantly higher levels of beneficial fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants. In particular, one fatty acid, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) was 60 per cent higher. CLA has been linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer. This is the latest in a number of studies that have shown organic milk is higher in omega 3 fatty acids. Despite this, the government food standards agency (FDA) is still reluctant to confirm that organic produce is more nutritious but for the growing number of people buying organic produce, the benefits of eating food grown and reared without the usual cocktail of toxins and chemicals is beyond doubt.

The plant hypericum perforatrum, popularly known as St John’s Wort, has long been considered a natural alternative to Prozac but now new research from St James’s University Hospital in Leeds, has confirmed its mood boosting properties. Scientists have found that it is just as effective at treating depression as Prozac. It also has fewer side effects than standard drugs given to those battling depression.

The study compared the effects of St John’s Wort with placebos and a range of old and new antidepressants, including Prozac and Seroxat and a new generation of SSRI drugs on over 5,000 patients with mild to severe depression. Overall, St John’s Wort was superior to placebo and similarly effective as standard antidepressants with fewer side effects. 

 

St John’s Wort is contraindicated with a number of medications so do check before taking it.

If you are finding it hard to lose weight; your weekends may be to blame, according to recent research from Washington University School of Medicine. In a year long study they found that people on strict diet and exercise programmes were more likely to let things go on a Saturday and Sunday – with Saturday being the most calorie high day. So if you are struggling to lose weight take a good look at your calorie intake over the weekend.