Startling disclosures from previously hidden sources that Prozac is no more effective than a placebo in treating clinical depression have met with reactions ranging from surprise to despair.However, these revelations are neither new nor surprising.Unconvincing outcomes from earlier trials raised...

While the health benefits of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) omega-3 have been well established for the past three decades, it is only recently, since its appearance as a pharmaceutical agent, that this remarkable fish oil product has received recognition for...

Early science understood the calcium homeostasis role of Vitamin D and bone health. However, we now know that vitamin D plays a major biological role in human physiology, cell differentiation, proliferation (1) and immunity. In our new understanding, we realise it...

In the presence of UVB rays from the sun, a precursor, pre-vitamin D is made in the epidermis from a derivative of cholesterol in the skin. This is then made into D3 in the lower layers of the skin. (cholecalciferol)...

Looking back to the early 20th century, it became known that vitamin D deficiency, brought about by lack of sunlight, caused rickets in young children. Rickets manifests as weaker bones, malformations and stunted growth, and is very painful. Supplementing with...