In a small but promising pilot study of postmenopausal women, 600 IU of Vitamin E and 1000 mg of Vitamin C taken daily for six months protected against bone loss at a level equal to that attained from a session of resistance exercises three times a week. Small studies cannot be taken as proof, but they often provide a basis for undertaking larger research projects that can better resolve the remaining uncertainties. This study appears to be the first of its kind.

Chuin A, Labonte M, Tessier D et al. Effect of antioxidants combined to resistance training on BMD in elderly women: a pilot study. Osteoporos Int. Nov 20 2008 [Epub ahead of print]

FDA and EPA Clash Sharply Over Safety of Eating Fish

Because fish contain significant levels of mercury from pollution, the U.S. federal government for many years has recommended that pregnant women and young children limit their consumption of fish for health reasons. These guidelines were jointly endorsed by the Food and Drug Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency in 2004.

Now, the two federal agencies are at loggerheads over whether to change this health advisory. The Food and Drug Administration has been circulating a draft report within the government that argues the health benefits of eating fish outweigh the potential ill effects of mercury. The Environmental Protection Agency, in sharp contrast, is calling the FDA opinion “scientifically flawed and inadequate,” recommending that current advisories remain in force.

CBS News, “Debate Rages on Risk of Mercury in Fish.” http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/12/12/health/
main4667226.shtml?source=RSSattr=Health_4667226. Accessed 12/16/08.

Daniel Redwood, DC, is Editor-in-Chief of Health Insights Today.