#Dietandnutrition

A new wave of research is shining light on the effects of vitamin D supplements on blood pressure, sparking hope among those tackling hypertension—a condition affecting one in four Thai adults. While vitamin D has long been praised for its benefits to bone health, immunity, and muscle function, questions about its potential to lower blood pressure are now coming to the fore. Recent findings suggest a nuanced reality: vitamin D’s impact on blood pressure largely depends on specific individual health factors, especially vitamin D status and existing blood pressure levels.

A new look at vitamin D and blood pressure highlights how individual factors shape outcomes. In Thailand, hypertension affects about one in four adults, while vitamin D deficiency is common among older people and city dwellers. Vitamin D supports bones, immunity, and muscles, but its impact on blood pressure is not straightforward. Research suggests benefits may occur mainly for those who are deficient, have hypertension, or share other risk factors.

Fresh research turns conventional wisdom on its head, revealing that several so-called “bad” foods—often avoided in the quest for heart health—can actually play powerful roles in lowering cholesterol. This insight, highlighted in a recent report from EatingWell (April 2025), is backed by global scientific literature and offers new hope for patients managing high cholesterol in Thailand and around the world (EatingWell). Understanding these foods and how they can fit into a Thai diet is an important step in tackling the nation’s high rate of coronary heart disease.

Fresh findings challenge the idea that certain foods are unequivocally “bad” for cholesterol. A recent trend in global research shows that some commonly avoided items can support cholesterol management when included as part of a balanced diet. This perspective aligns with Thailand’s health goals as communities address rising rates of coronary heart disease and seek practical, culturally relevant nutrition guidance.

Cholesterol remains a key health concern. High levels of LDL, the so-called “bad” cholesterol, can clog arteries and raise the risk of heart attack and stroke. At the same time, HDL, the “good” cholesterol, helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream. Thailand’s public health messaging traditionally emphasizes reducing saturated fats, processed foods, and added sugars. Yet nuanced evidence suggests that selective inclusion of certain foods can contribute to better cholesterol control when paired with overall healthy lifestyle choices.

A recent study underscores the importance of dietary changes in managing cholesterol levels, shedding light on processed meats as a critical factor. In a world where cholesterol often conjures images of heart disease, it’s essential to understand its dual nature. Cholesterol, a fat-like substance, plays vital roles, from hormone production to cell building. However, when low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the “bad” cholesterol, accumulates excessively, it leads to health risks like heart attacks and strokes.

A new study highlights how everyday dietary choices affect cholesterol levels, with processed meats emerging as a key concern. Cholesterol is a vital substance in the body, supporting hormone production and cell function. Yet when low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the so-called “bad” cholesterol, builds up, it raises the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Experts say diet can influence cholesterol as much as medication. Senior researchers from a leading UK university emphasize that cutting back on processed meats can meaningfully lower LDL cholesterol. A registered dietitian notes that foods high in saturated fat—common in processed meats—tend to raise LDL levels. Even lean variants like turkey bacon or low-fat deli meats still carry saturated fat that can affect heart health.

Choline is emerging as a crucial nutrient for brain health and development, according to recent coverage by major media. While not widely recognized, choline supports cognitive performance, neurodevelopment, and mental well-being. This growing awareness suggests choline could help enhance brain function and protect against certain disorders.

Choline is not classified as a vitamin or mineral, yet it is essential for the nervous system. Evidence points to benefits in cognitive function and potential protection against disorders such as ADHD and dyslexia. It also supports fetal neurodevelopment, with research indicating maternal choline intake during pregnancy can improve infants’ cognitive processing speeds. Choline contributes to the production of acetylcholine, a key neurotransmitter for memory and learning, and is associated with reduced risk of neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.

In a recent article by the BBC, choline, an underrecognized nutrient, is highlighted for its vital role in brain health and development. Although not widely known, choline is crucial for cognitive performance, neurodevelopment, and mental well-being. This newfound awareness about choline underscores its potential in enhancing brain functions and protecting against various disorders.

Choline is not classified as a vitamin or mineral, yet it is essential for the human nervous system’s healthy functioning. Emerging evidence points to its role in improving cognitive function and safeguarding against disorders like ADHD and dyslexia. Furthermore, choline supports neurodevelopment, with studies revealing that maternal consumption of choline during pregnancy can enhance infants’ cognitive processing speeds. Profoundly involved in brain function, choline aids in producing acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter vital for memory and learning, and is linked to reduced risks of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

A new study spotlights nicotinamide riboside (NR), a form of vitamin B3, as a promising option to support brain health and slow Alzheimer’s progression. Researchers from the University of Delaware College of Health Sciences and the National Institute on Aging found that NR can cross the blood-brain barrier and may help preserve neurons and brain energy metabolism as people age.

Alzheimer’s disease remains a major health challenge worldwide, including Thailand, where an aging population increases demand for prevention and treatment strategies. Current therapies primarily address symptoms rather than the disease itself. The latest findings align with a broader interest in NAD+ precursors like NR as potential neuroprotective options because they help maintain cellular energy in the brain. Data from leading research institutions suggests NR could offer protective benefits against neurodegeneration.