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Combining a low dose of blood pressure medication with a higher intake of dietary-resistant starch might help stave off diabetic kidney disease, according to results from a new animal study. "Our study suggests that combining dietary interventions with a low dose of established medications for diabetic kidney disease management can provide a more feasible and lower side-effect alternative for patients to implement and improve their health outcomes by helping maintain their kidney integrity," said Claudia Carrillo. Dietary-resistant starch is found in unripe bananas, cooked and cooled potatoes, legumes and whole grains. This type of carbohydrate ferments in the large intestine,...

Getting enough vitamin D is a simple step that could help millions of people reduce their risk of heart disease. A simple step could help millions of people reduce their risk of heart disease, according to new research: make sure to get enough vitamin D. The new research elucidates linkages between skin pigmentation, vitamin D, and indicators of cardiovascular health. Combined with evidence from previous research, the new study suggests vitamin D deficiency could contribute to the high rate of heart disease among African Americans. “More darkly-pigmented individuals may be at greater risk of vitamin D deficiency, particularly in areas...