Researchers re-emphasize vitamins, minerals key to proper nutrition, regardless of weight

MANHASSET, N.Y., Oct. 16, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Feinstein Institute for Medical Research scientists examined the latest data on nutrition and encourage the medical community to re-energize their recommendations on vitamins for patient care in an analysis published recently in Diabetes & Metabolism: Research & Reviews. Feinstein Institute members Miji Kim, MD, and Anam Basharat, MD, along with head of the Diabetes Research Laboratory, Jesse Roth, MD, re-examined the health concerns of being undernourished and overweight/obese and how a carefully planned program of micronutrients can benefit the health of all patients, regardless of weight.

"We found, when examining the current research, that while we have been focusing on obesity and the impact of macronutrients like fats, carbohydrates and proteins for good health, we have been ignoring the importance of vitamins and other micronutrients which can have a major impact irrespective of weight," said Dr. Kim. "We found that most individuals, whether undernourished or overweight/obese, are not taking in the optimal amount of vitamins and minerals. We should revisit the medical community's focus on this aspect of health because micronutrients are relatively safe, low in cost and can have a speedy, positive impact on health."

The analysis from the Feinstein Institute team noted that up until the mid-twentieth century, medical professionals were most concerned about the health effects of famine and undernourishment. Overnourishment to attain extra weight could be key in terms of survival from undernourishment. With improving health care and hygiene, the desirability of extra weight was diminished, leading to a re-evaluation of what is considered proper nourishment. The analysis also noted the benefits of individual vitamins and minerals and how they can rapidly provide a positive impact on health.

"The study by Dr. Kim and her colleagues opens an important dialogue in the medical community about what is optimal nourishment and how healthcare professionals can support their patients to maintain that level," said Kevin J. Tracey, MD, president and CEO of the Feinstein Institute.

About the Feinstein Institute
The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research is the research arm of Northwell Health, the largest health care provider in New York. Home to 50 research laboratories and to clinical research throughout dozens of hospitals and outpatient facilities, the Feinstein Institute includes 4,000 researchers and staff who are making breakthroughs in molecular medicine, genetics, oncology, brain research, mental health, autoimmunity, and bioelectronic medicine ? a new field of science that has the potential to revolutionize medicine. For more information about how we empower imagination and pioneer discovery, visit FeinsteinInstitute.org.

SOURCE The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research