Natural Standard Blog

NEW Adverse Effects Checker

Natural Standard recently launched a new Adverse Effects Checker, a point-of-care resource for healthcare professionals.

Currently, dietary supplements are not approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) for safety and effectiveness. It is the responsibility of manufacturers and distributors to ensure products are safe before they are marketed to the public. Manufacturers have been required to report all serious product-related adverse effects to the FDA since December of 2007.

This decision-support tool allows clinicians to quickly search for potential causes of reported adverse effects alphabetically or by category. Users can click on specific adverse effects (such as abdominal cramps or hair loss) to see which integrative therapies may have these effects. The checker results are based on evidence from laboratory and animal studies, human case reports and trials, as well as expert opinion and anecdote.

Natural Standard has also added a Case Report button, which allows users to easily submit case reports for integration into Natural Standard monographs and submission to the FDA.

Natural Standard's evidence-based systematic reviews have always featured potential adverse effects of integrative therapies. The new Adverse Effects Checker conveniently compiles this information in one location for easy use.

To try this new tool, please visit Natural Standard's NEW Adverse Effects Checker.

 

Integrative Therapies for Healthy Summer Sports

Natural Standard celebrates the start of summer by highlighting several integrative therapies for the season of sun and sports.

With summer sports comes increased sun exposure and the need for sun protection. Sunburn may occur when the amount of sun or ultraviolet (UV) light exposure exceeds the ability of the body's pigment called melanin to protect the skin. Many integrative therapies have been studied for their potential to protect the skin against such exposure.

Lycopene in combination with other carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, vitamins C and E, selenium and proanthocyanidins, may help in reducing sunburn. Carotenoids are highly pigmented (red, orange, yellow), fat-soluble compounds naturally present in many fruits, grains, oils and vegetables (green plants, carrots, sweet potatoes, squash, spinach, etc). Selected protective effects from UV rays have been observed in small, short-term studies. There is also evidence that taking pomegranate extract by mouth may reduce damage to the skin caused by exposure to UV rays. Additional studies in this area are warranted.

Along with increased sun exposure, sports injuries, such as strains and sprains, are common during the summer season. The musculoskeletal system includes bones, muscles, joints, ligaments, tendons and bursae (fluid-filled sacs). Any of these components can be injured by trauma or affected by a number of diseases causing joint, tendon and muscle problems.

Athletes may be more susceptible to injuries as they continuously apply pressure on body parts and use forceful movements. Nutritional changes along with the addition of supplements (vitamins, minerals and herbs) may be effective in reducing joint, tendon and muscle pain. Foods high in calcium, such as spinach, kale, figs and dairy products, are recommended by healthcare professionals.

Early study suggests that cherry juice may prevent damage to muscles caused by exercise. Additionally, Pycnogenol®, the registered trade name for a patented water extract of the bark of the French maritime pine, may effectively prevent cramps, muscular pain at rest and pain after/during exercise in athletes prone to cramps. Further research is needed before any firm conclusions can be made.

For more information about integrative therapies for common sports injuries, please visit Natural Standard's Sports Medicine Database.

For more information about integrative therapies for sun exposure, please visit Natural Standard's Comparative Effectiveness Database.

Natural Standard Featured CE/CME: Fenugreek

Natural Standard's featured CE/CME for the month of June is Fenugreek: Safety & Effectiveness.

Fenugreek is a plant in the family Fabaceae. Both its leaves and seeds are commonly used. Fenugreek is produced in Asia, the Middle East, South America, and southern Europe. Fenugreek seeds are often used in the making of garam masala (a South Asian spice blend). Fenugreek has a long history of medical uses in Indian and Chinese medicine, and it has been used for numerous indications, including for labor induction, as a digestive aid and as a general tonic to improve metabolism and health.

Natural Standard offers CE/CME modules for multidisciplinary healthcare professionals. Students and other users may take courses for training purposes without generating credit certificates. Continuing Education requirements differ based on discipline, license and location. If you are unsure of your specific needs, please contact your local agency.

 

Eating Fish May Reduce Colorectal Cancer Risk

A new study suggests that eating fish may reduce the risk for colorectal cancer.

Colon cancer is cancer of the large intestine (colon), which is the lower part of the digestive system. Rectal cancer occurs on the last eight to ten inches of the colon. They are often referred to together as colorectal cancers and are a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States.

In the colon and rectum, the exaggerated growth of cells may cause precancerous polyps (adenomas or adenomatous polyps), which form in the lining of the intestine. Over a period of time some of these polyps may become cancerous. In the later stages of the disease, these cancerous polyps may penetrate the colon walls and metastasize (spread) to nearby lymph nodes and other organs.

In a new study, researchers conducted a comprehensive literature search for studies evaluating the relationship between fish consumption and colorectal, colon or rectal cancer risk. Forty-one studies were ultimately identified for inclusion.

Through analyses of the study results, the researchers found that eating fish reduced the risk of colorectal cancer by 12 percent. The highest reported fish consumption was linked to a 17 percent decreased risk, while the lowest reported fish consumption was linked to a seven percent decreased risk.

The authors concluded that eating fish may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer; however, further research is necessary before firm conclusions can be made.

Fish is a dietary source of both docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). There is supportive evidence from multiple studies that suggests the intake of recommended amounts of DHA and EPA in the form of dietary fish or fish oil supplements lowers triglycerides; reduces the risk of death, heart attack, dangerous abnormal heart rhythms and strokes in people with known cardiovascular disease; slows the buildup of atherosclerotic plaques ("hardening of the arteries") and lowers blood pressure slightly. Several previous population studies have also reported that dietary omega-3 fatty acids or fish oil may reduce the risk of developing breast, colon or prostate cancer. Additional research is needed in this area.

For more information about fish oil, please visit Natural Standard's Foods, Herbs & Supplements Database.

For more information about integrative therapies for colorectal cancer, please visit Natural Standard's Comparative Effectiveness Database.

 

Soy May Not Lower Blood Pressure

A new study suggests that soy supplementation may not reduce blood pressure in menopausal women.

Soy contains protein, isoflavones and fiber, all thought to provide health benefits. Soy is an excellent source of dietary protein, including all essential amino acids. Soy is also a source of lecithin or phospholipid. Soy isoflavones and lecithin have been studied scientifically for numerous health conditions. Isoflavones such as genistein are believed to have estrogen-like effects in the body, and as a result are sometimes called "phytoestrogens."

There is limited human research on the effects of dietary soy on blood pressure. Some research suggests that substituting soy nuts for non-soy protein may help improve blood pressure. Further research is needed before a firm conclusion can be made.

In a new study, researchers randomly assigned 24 menopausal women with high normal blood pressure to receive 80 milligrams of soy isoflavones or placebo daily for six weeks. Changes in blood pressure and nitric oxide metabolism were evaluated as the main outcome measures through several methods, including forearm blood flow and 24-hour blood pressure monitoring.

After the six weeks of treatment, the researchers found that soy supplementation had no significant effects on blood pressure or nitric oxide metabolism when compared to the control group.

Larger-scale, well-designed clinical trials are needed to further evaluate these findings.

In addition to soy, many other integrative therapies have been studied for their effects on blood pressure. Numerous human studies report that garlic may lower blood pressure. Multiple human trials have also reported small reductions in blood pressure with intake of omega-3 fatty acids. Additionally, preliminary research suggests that CoQ10 causes small decreases in blood pressure (systolic and possibly diastolic). Low blood levels of CoQ10 have been found in people with hypertension, although it is not clear if CoQ10 "deficiency" is a cause of high blood pressure. Well-designed long-term research is needed.

For more information about integrative therapies for high blood pressure, please visit Natural Standard's Comparative Effectiveness Database.

For more information about soy, please visit Natural Standard's Foods, Herbs & Supplements Database.

 

Folic Acid Intake During Pregnancy Linked to Reduced Autism Risk

Folic acid supplementation during pregnancy may reduce the risk for having a child with autism, according to a new study.

Folate and folic acid are forms of a water-soluble B vitamin. Folate occurs naturally in food, and folic acid is the synthetic form of this vitamin. Folic acid is well-tolerated in amounts found in fortified foods and supplements. Sources include cereals, baked goods, leafy vegetables (spinach, broccoli, lettuce), okra, asparagus, fruits (bananas, melons, lemons), legumes, yeast, mushrooms, organ meat (beef liver, kidney), orange juice and tomato juice. Folic acid is frequently used in combination with other B vitamins in vitamin B complex formulations.

Folic acid supplements are suggested for use in women of childbearing age in order to prevent neural tube defects. Neural tube defect risk appears to have decreased in many countries since folic acid fortification of flour and cereals.

In a new study, researchers analyzed data from the Childhood Autism Risks from Genetics and Environment Study (2003-2009). Participants included 429 families with an autistic child, 130 with a child of reported delayed development and 278 with a child of normal development. Each mother's daily folic acid intake was measured through phone interviews.

The researchers found that mothers with children of normal development reported consuming significantly more folic acid during the first month of pregnancy than those with autistic children. Average daily folic acid intake of at least 600 micrograms, compared with less than 600 micrograms, was linked to a reduced risk of having a child with autism.

Further research in this area is warranted before any firm conclusions can be made.

Autism is a brain disorder that is associated with a wide range of developmental problems, especially in communication and social interaction. The cause of autism remains unknown.

Although most children are not diagnosed with autism until they are around preschool age, the first signs of autism generally appear between 12 and 18 months of age. The severity of symptoms varies among patients. Some patients are able to live independently once they become adults, while others may need lifelong support.

Many integrative therapies have been studied for their potential use in autistic individuals. People with autism spectrum disorders often show a heightened interest and response to music. Music therapy may aid in the teaching of verbal and nonverbal communication skills and in establishing normal developmental processes. However, data are not conclusive.

For more information about integrative therapies for autism, please visit Natural Standard's Comparative Effectiveness Database.

For more information about folic acid, please visit Natural Standard's Foods, Herbs & Supplements Database.

 

Aromatherapy Massage May Reduce Menopausal Symptoms

Aromatherapy massage may reduce menopausal symptoms, according to a new study.

Aromatherapy is a technique in which essential oils from plants are used with the intention of preventing or treating illness, reducing stress, or enhancing well-being. Fragrance oils and products containing man-made compounds are not used in the practice of genuine aromatherapy. Although many gift shops sell scented candles, pomanders and potpourri as "aromatherapy," genuine aromatherapy treatments use higher strength (concentrated) essential oils drawn from various herbs. Aromatherapy massage uses essential oils that have been added to massage oil. This allows the essential oils to be absorbed through the skin as well as the nose and mouth.

In a new study, 90 menopausal women were randomly assigned to one of three groups. The first group received a 30-minute aromatherapy massage with aroma oil twice weekly for four weeks, the second group received a 30-minute massage with plain massage oil twice weekly for four weeks and the third group received no treatment at all. Menopausal symptoms were evaluated with the menopause rating scale throughout the study.

The researchers found that after eight treatment sessions, participants in both the aromatherapy massage and regular massage groups had significantly lower menopause scores than those receiving no treatment. Participants in the aromatherapy group had significantly lower menopause scores when compared to those receiving regular massage treatments.

The authors concluded that both aromatherapy massage and regular massage treatments may reduce menopausal symptoms; however, aromatherapy massage may be more effective. Further research is necessary before any firm conclusions can be made.

Many other integrative therapies have been studied for their potential effects on menopausal symptoms. Foods rich in phytoestrogens, such as soy, may help alleviate symptoms of menopause, including vaginal dryness, burning, itching, painful intercourse and decreased interest in sex. Black cohosh is also a popular alternative to prescription hormonal therapy for the treatment of menopausal symptoms. Initial human research suggests that black cohosh may improve some of these symptoms for up to six months. However, the current evidence is mixed. Additional, well-designed studies are needed before firm conclusions may be made.

For more information about integrative therapies for menopausal symptoms, please visit Natural Standard's Comparative Effectiveness Database.

For more information about aromatherapy massage, please visit Natural Standard's Health & Wellness Database.

Eating More Fruits and Vegetables May Help Smokers Quit

Eating a lot of fruits and vegetables may help smokers quit, according to a new study.

Tobacco contains nicotine, a highly addictive drug, in addition to the 69 chemicals known to cause cancer. All major medical institutions acknowledge that quitting smoking greatly increases a person's health prospects.

Nicotine is the most abundant psychoactive drug in tobacco products that produces dependence. Nicotine can produce both excitation and stimulation along with relaxation at the same time, making it a very attractive drug for addictive personalities. Both smoking tobacco and smokeless tobacco (chewing, dipping) can lead to nicotine dependence. Chewing and dipping tobacco is placed between the lip and gums or in the cheek. Nicotine dependence is the most common form of chemical dependence in the United States. Research suggests that nicotine is as addictive as heroin, cocaine or alcohol. Examples of nicotine withdrawal symptoms include irritability, anxiety, difficulty concentrating and increased appetite.

Many different approaches are used to help smokers quit. The pharmacological approach often contains various nicotine replacement therapies, such as the patch, nicotine gum or lozenges, or even a nicotine inhaler. Some alternative therapies include certain herbal combinations, such as kava and chamomile, acupuncture, hypnotherapy, psychotherapy and relaxation therapy. Some individuals simply pick a quit date and stick with it.

In a new study, researchers conducted a population-based study on a random selection of 1,000 smokers at least 25 years-old to evaluate the potential effects fruit and vegetable consumption may have on smoking intensity and dependence over the course of 14 months.

The researchers found that participants who ate more fruits and vegetables smoked fewer daily cigarettes, scored lower on the Nicotine Dependence Syndrome Scale and lasted a longer period of time without smoking. Furthermore, participants who ate the most fruits and vegetables were over three times more likely to successfully refrain from smoking for at least 30 days by the 14 month follow-up period than those who ate the least.

The authors concluded that eating a lot of fruits and vegetables may be beneficial for smokers trying to quit. Well-designed clinical trials are needed to further evaluate these findings.

Many other integrative therapies have been studied for their potential effects on smoking habits. Sensory cues associated with cigarette smoking can suppress certain smoking withdrawal symptoms, including the craving for cigarettes. Inhalation of black pepper essential oil may reduce cravings and physical symptoms associated with cigarette smoking withdrawal. Additionally, early research indicates that auricular acupressure may help with quitting smoking. Further research is needed to confirm these results.

For more information about integrative therapies for smoking cessation, please visit Natural Standard's Comparative Effectiveness Database.

 

Natural Standard Training

Sign up for a free online training session to learn more about Natural Standard's decision-support tools.

Natural Standard provides high-quality, evidence-based information about integrative therapies to help healthcare professionals and consumers make safer, more educated decisions about health.

Natural Standard is an international multidisciplinary collaboration that includes contributors from more than 100 eminent academic institutions. Research teams systematically gather scientific data and expert opinions to develop comprehensive monographs that are designed to facilitate clinical decision making. For each therapy, the available scientific evidence of effectiveness is evaluated using the Natural Standard Evidence-Based Validated Grading Rationale™. All monographs undergo blinded peer review prior to inclusion in Natural Standard databases.

These guided tours will demonstrate how to navigate the various databases and cross reference medical conditions and therapies.

Tue, Jun 26, 2012 2:00 PM - 2:45 PM (EST)

Thu, Jun 28, 2012 2:00 PM - 2:45 PM (EST)

Thu, Jul 12, 2012 2:00 PM - 2:45 PM (EST)

Thu, Jul 19, 2012 2:00 PM - 2:45 PM (EST)

Thu, Jul 26, 2012 2:00 PM - 2:45 PM (EST)

Thu, Aug 2, 2012 2:00 PM - 2:45 PM (EST)

After registration, attendees will receive e-mail confirmation with information on how to join the webinar.

System Requirements: PC-based attendees: Windows® 7, Vista, XP or 2003 Server. Macintosh®-based attendees: Mac OS® X 10.4.11 (Tiger®) or newer

 

Natural Standard Research Collaboration Award

The Natural Standard Research Collaboration is offering an award for subscribing academic institutions to present to an exemplary 2012 graduating class member for perpetuating multidisciplinary, evidence-based research practices, healthcare communications or information. Each healthcare discipline and journalism school within a university is eligible for one award per department.

Natural Standard would like to congratulate recent award recipients Corey Smith from Rangel College of Pharmacy and Adrian Hui from St. John Fisher College. Each award recipient will be granted the following:

Natural Standard Award Certificate

Natural Standard Herb & Supplement Guide Book

Natural Standard Medical Condition Reference Book: An Integrative Approach

Natural Standard Herbal Pharmacotherapy Book: An Evidence-Based Approach

Natural Standard Professional Database: one-year personal subscription

Natural Standard Mobile Version: one-year personal subscription

Journal of Dietary Supplements: one-year personal subscription

To offer this award at your institution, please email memberservices@naturalstandard.com.

 

Complimentary Webinar

Natural Standard is offering a series of complimentary webinars on integrative medicine. Natural Standard offers these impartial webinars as an informational public service. All webinars are recorded and archived at www.naturalstandard.com/webinars.

Herpes labialis: An Integrative Approach: Anna Elizabeth Polk, PharmDc, presents several patient cases detailing the safety and effectiveness of integrative therapies for herpes labialis. She discusses the scientific evidence, dosing, safety and interactions related to various therapies.

Complimentary access will be available starting July 1, 2012.

 

Low Vitamin D Levels Linked to Increased Disability Risk

Having lower levels of vitamin D in the blood may increase the risk of disability and impaired mobility in older adults, according to a study.

Vitamin D is found in many dietary sources, such as fish, eggs, fortified milk and cod liver oil. The sun also contributes significantly to the daily production of vitamin D, and as little as 10 minutes of exposure is thought to be enough to prevent deficiencies. The term "vitamin D" refers to several different forms of this vitamin. Two forms are important in humans: ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) and cholecalciferol (vitamin D3). Vitamin D2 is synthesized by plants. Vitamin D3 is synthesized by humans in the skin when it is exposed to ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from sunlight. Foods may be fortified with vitamin D2 or D3.

In a new study, researchers evaluated 3,705 well-functioning men and women aged 70-79 years-old who were participating in the Health, Aging and Body Composition Study. Over a six-year period, the team measured subjects' vitamin D levels and mobility status semi-annually to determine if the two may be linked. The participants performed tasks such as walking a quarter of a mile, climbing 10 steps or engaging in other everyday tasks to determine their level of physical function.

The results suggested that people who had lower vitamin D levels had about a 30 percent greater risk of experiencing mobility limitations and about a twofold greater risk of disability, compared to those who had higher levels of vitamin D.

The scientists concluded that increasing vitamin D intake may help older adults maintain mobility and prevent the development of physical disability. More research is needed to better understand these findings.

The major biologic function of vitamin D is to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus. Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium, helping to form and maintain strong bones. It is used, alone or in combination with calcium, to increase bone mineral density and decrease fractures. Recently, research also suggests that vitamin D may provide protection from osteoporosis, hypertension (high blood pressure), cancer and several autoimmune diseases.

For more information about vitamin D, please visit Natural Standard's Foods, Herbs & Supplements Database.

Weight Loss Surgery Linked to Increased Alcohol Use

A new study has linked bariatric weight loss surgery to an increased risk for disordered alcohol use.

Currently there are a variety of weight loss procedure options. Surgery may use bands or staples to create food intake restriction. The bands or staples are surgically placed near the top of the stomach to section off a small portion that is often called a stomach pouch. A small outlet, about the size of a pencil eraser, is left at the bottom of the stomach pouch. Since the outlet is small, food stays in the pouch longer and makes the patient feel full for a longer time.

In a new study, researchers analyzed data on 1945 adults who completed assessments before and after weight loss surgery between 2006 and 2011. Alcohol consumption was measured through the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test.

The researchers found that alcohol use did not increase from one year before to one year after weight loss surgery. However, alcohol consumption significantly increased during the second year post-surgery. Several pre-surgery factors were also independently linked to an increased risk for alcoholism, including being a smoker, male patient and younger.

The authors concluded that weight loss surgery may increase the risk for alcohol use disorders. However, additional research is necessary to further evaluate this potential association.

Alcohol abuse occurs when a person engages in excessive drinking that results in health or social problems. Alcohol may continue to be abused despite serious adverse health, personal, work-related and financial consequences. Alcohol abusers, however, may not fully lose control over the use of alcohol and progress to alcoholism. A person afflicted with alcohol dependence may experience alcohol withdrawal with symptoms such as anxiety attacks, confusion, insomnia, sweating, increased pulse rate and temperature, tremors or severe depression.

Most experts believe that it is possible to have a problem with alcohol, but not display all the characteristics of alcoholism. For instance, alcohol abuse does not necessarily involve alcohol dependence, which is the need for repeated doses of alcohol to maintain a certain feeling of well-being.

For more information about alcohol abuse or weight loss surgery, please visit Natural Standard's Health & Wellness Database.

Natural Standard on Sharecare.com

Dr. Catherine Ulbricht, Founder and CEO of Natural Standard, authored a new blog for Sharecare.com.

Men's Health: 4 Herbs for a Healthy Prostate: Dr. Ulbricht reviews the scientific evidence of benefit for four integrative therapies for men's health. pygeum, saw palmetto, beta-sitosterol and selenium are discussed. To read the full blog, please visit, http://blog.sharecare.com.

Mediterranean Diet Linked to Better Quality of Life

Adhering to a Mediterranean diet may increase quality of life, according to a new study.

The Mediterranean diet is based on the healthy eating and lifestyle habits of the people living in southern Italy, the Greek island of Crete and other areas of Greece in the early 1960s. The diet is rich in heart-healthy fiber and nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. The diet generally includes: fruits, vegetables and unsaturated "good" fats, particularly olive oil. Olive oil has been associated with benefits such as lower blood pressure and a lower risk for heart disease. In addition, olive oil may benefit people with type 2 diabetes.

In a new study, researchers analyzed food questionnaire data on 11,015 individuals from the SUN Project. Adherence to a Mediterranean diet was scored as low, low-moderate, moderate-high and high throughout the four year follow-up period. Quality of life was also evaluated through questionnaires.

The researchers found that adhering to the Mediterranean diet was significantly linked to increased mental and physical health, including social interactions and emotional health. The authors noted that individuals who began adhering to the Mediterranean diet after the start of the study saw significant improvements in their quality of life.

The authors concluded that maintaining a Mediterranean diet may be directly linked to better quality of life. Further well-designed clinical trials are necessary.

Dietary sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fish oil and certain plant and nut oils. Fish oil contains both docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), while some nuts (such as English walnuts) and vegetable oils (such as canola, soybean, flaxseed, linseed and olive oils) contain alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).

There is supportive evidence from multiple studies that suggests the intake of recommended amounts of DHA and EPA in the form of dietary fish or fish oil supplements lowers triglycerides; reduces the risk of death, heart attack, dangerous abnormal heart rhythms and strokes in people with known cardiovascular disease; slows the buildup of atherosclerotic plaques ("hardening of the arteries") and lowers blood pressure slightly. However, high doses may have harmful effects, such as an increased risk of bleeding. Although similar benefits have been proposed for alpha-linolenic acid, the scientific evidence is less compelling, and the beneficial effects may be less pronounced.

For more information about the Mediterranean diet, please visit Natural Standard's Health & Wellness Database.

For more information about the omega-3 fatty acids, please visit Natural Standard's Foods, Herbs & Supplements Database.

Making Natural Standard Part of Daily Workflow

Sign up for a complimentary webinar to learn how institutions can leverage Natural Standard's unique Clinical Decision Support (CDS) and Comparative Efficacy Databases to improve healthcare outcomes.

The patient care platform, now available to Natural Standard members, will also be reviewed.

To attend, register by clicking one of the enrollment links below.

Wed, June 6, 2012 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM (EST)

Wed, June 20, 2012 11:00 AM - 11:45 AM (EST)

After registration, attendees will receive e-mail confirmation with information on how to join the webinar.

System Requirements: PC-based attendees: Windows® 7, Vista, XP or 2003 Server. Macintosh®-based attendees: Mac OS® X 10.4.11 (Tiger®) or newer

Beta-glucan: The Clinical Bottom Line

Natural Standard is offering a series of complimentary webinars on integrative medicine. Natural Standard offers these impartial webinars as an informational public service. All webinars are recorded and archived at www.naturalstandard.com/webinars.

Beta-glucan: The Clinical Bottom Line: Kevin Ng, PharmDc, presents Natural Standard's evidence-based systematic review results on beta-glucan. He provides a basic overview on beta-glucan and discusses the scientific evidence, dosing, safety and interactions related to its use. Ng also applies the data to several patient cases that highlight potential interactions and adverse effects. Complimentary access is now available.