CASI Blog
Peer-reviewed nutrition science, organized by topic and section.
Fully-referenced deep dives, written for practitioners and the science-curious.
Research & Education
The oral microbiome comprises over 700 bacterial species, forming a complex ecosystem. Like promoting an optimal gut microbiome, maintaining a balanced oral microbiome can support healthy inflammatory responses and immune function. Certain probiotics, like Lactobacillus paracasei (L. paracasei), hav
Research & Education
Lutein and zeaxanthin: The macular carotenoids
Nutrition Notes
Research suggests that there may be an association between an unhealthy oral microbiome and adverse effects on the cardiovascular system. Specifically, poor dental hygiene practices, periodontal disease, dental caries, or tooth loss may be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Cardiovascular Health
Complications related to oral health, such as periodontal disease, dental caries, and tooth loss, have been suggested to be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, while periodontal disease (PD) ranks as the s
Connection Autoimmune
Autoimmune diseases are multifactorial, influenced by genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and, notably, the health of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and gut microbiome. The intricate connection between immune and GI health has been extensively studied in recent decades. Unsurprisingly, a
Nutrition Notes
While vitamin D is perhaps best known for its role in bone health and calcium metabolism, it exerts critical immunomodulatory actions throughout the body. Vitamin D receptors (VDRs) are present in various immune cells and play a pivotal role in regulating immune responses. This can impact both the i
Bone Health
Research in the last few decades has highlighted the positive effect of vitamin K, a fat-soluble vitamin, on bone health and strength. Increasing evidence concludes that suboptimal vitamin K status or low vitamin K consumption is associated with an increased risk of fracture, lower bone mass, and in
Immune Support
The body’s response to allergens is a complex process that involves immune and inflammatory pathways. It often manifests as conditions such as allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, and food allergies, and is estimated to affect more than 20% of the general population.
Nutrition Notes
The thyroid-gut axis refers to the bidirectional communication between the thyroid gland and the gut microbiome. It involves biochemical interactions between the immune system, gut microbiota, and the thyroid. Emerging research suggests that the thyroid-gut axis may play a pivotal role in the regula
Immune Support
Nettles, also known as “stinging nettle” (Urtica dioica L.), have traditionally been used worldwide as a folk medicine remedy for supporting respiratory and joint health and various other applications, such as hypertension. Documentation points to its use in ancient Egypt and ancient Greece and amon
Nutrition Notes
The thyroid gland plays an important role in energy metabolism and many other functions within the human body. It is, however, vulnerable to damage from oxidative stress. Emerging research suggests that certain minerals may help support antioxidative stress, balanced thyroid hormone levels, and a he