Debbie Rigby takes a look at the latest in research news
This large Swedish population based cohort study suggests that gabapentinoids are associated with an increased risk of suicidal behaviour, unintentional overdoses, head/body injuries, and road traffic incidents and offences. Pregabalin was associated with higher hazards of these outcomes than gabapentin.
BMJ 2019;365:l2147.
Dietary Glycemic Index and Load and the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
A systematic review and updated meta-analyses of prospective cohort studies confirms a strong correlation between adult diets high in glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) and the risk of type 2 diabetes. The review also suggested food and nutritional advice favouring lower GI or GL would produce significant potential cost-savings in national healthcare budgets.
Nutrients 2019;11(6):1-54.
Metabolic benefits of curcumin supplementation in patients with metabolic syndrome
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of 7 randomized controlled trials shows curcumin significantly improves fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and diastolic blood pressure levels in patients with metabolic syndrome. Curcumin was not associated with a significant change in waist circumference measurement and systolic blood pressure level.
Phytotherapy Research 2019;33(5):1289-1301.
A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled human trial of 48 patients with osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee treated with a standardized oral supplementation of Boswellin for 120 days showed significant improvement in the physical function of the patients by reducing pain and stiffness compared with placebo. Radiographic assessments showed improved knee joint gap and reduced osteophytes (spur). Boswellia serrata extract also significantly reduced the serum levels of high‐sensitive C‐reactive protein, a potential inflammatory marker associated with OA of the knee.
Phytotherapy Research 2019;33(5):1457-68.