Your Health: Jul. 8, 2002

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WARDING OFF ALZHEIMER'S

Two studies offer a new definition of brain food. Chicago researchers say a diet rich in vitamin E, found in grains, nuts and egg yolks, can reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. A Dutch study seconds that notion and adds vitamin C, found in many fruits and vegetables, to the list of neuroprotective nutrients. In neither study, however, did taking vitamin supplements provide the same benefit as eating real food. Researchers caution that the results are not yet conclusive and that vitamins--whether in diet or supplements--may not be enough to overcome a genetic predisposition to the disease.

CANCER AND THE PILL

For years scientists have been worried that the sex hormones in birth control pills might increase a woman's risk of breast cancer. A comprehensive survey of 9,000 women concludes that this is not the case. The study, which went back to the first generation of women to take oral contraceptives, found that those who did had no greater risk of developing breast cancer than those who didn't. It made no difference when the women first took the Pill, how long they took it, the dose or even whether breast cancer ran in their family. Concerns still linger, however, for women ages 45 to 64 on hormone-replacement therapy. Women who smoke and take hormones also face a greater risk of heart attack. --By David Bjerklie

Sources: J.A.M.A; N.E.J.M.