Cautionary Tales

1. Both lower levels and excessive higher intake of Folic acid may increase number of colon cancerous polyps ref   Notice that the body can process about 270 mcg of synthetic Folic Acid into the natural Folate form before it becomes saturated, thus the level recommended in the new vitamin criteria.
2. Calcium, vitamin D, or calcium with vitamin D have been studied for effects on colon cancer. the results did not show much difference in polyp development. A closer look at results showed that calcium is protective only if there is an existing low ratio of calcium to magnesium, and it remains low during treatment period, 4 years. 32% reduction in adenoma polyps if ratio is below median versus 0% if above median ratio for calcium to magnesium. ref ref DO NOT TAKE TOO MUCH CALCIUM IF MAGNESIUM IS LOW. On follow up to this study, colon cancers slightly increased in calcium and calcium with vitamin D groups, 6-10 years. Vitamin D gene modifications present influence many study results and help explain positive and negative results. The extra years suggest longer time needed for polyps (precancerous) to manifest.  ref
3. If you have macular degeneration, DO NOT take flax oil or other alpha-linolenic acid sources until more research settles this possible association. Might be related to a Trans-ALA metabolite found in a subset of women in the study. Get omega 3 from fish. ref (link lost here> ref)
4. D-Ribose is a sugar produced by the body from the common body sugar, glucose. Ribose participates in energy production in cells. In fact, when an athlete hits the wall, it is because ribose reserves have diminished and the body needs to rest and replenish ribose, a very slow process. The exercise industry thought that consuming ribose would improve performance. It did. Seniors often energy shy also benefited. CAUTION: A recent small study revealed ribose enhances the glycation process faster than any other form of sugar. Glycation forms AGES, for advanced glycation end products. This increases cellular aging by leading to plaque formation, especially in the brain. Now, does supplementing ribose increase this process? In theory, it could, but research still has to verify if it does and find out to what degree. In the meantime, younger athletes probably should not make a habit of ribose intake, but older folks might be OK if there are only small signs of brain aging present since the glycation process builds up gradually over many years. The Precautionary Principle should be in play.  ref