text:
Academic Editors: Demosthenes B Panagiotakos and Matina Kouvari
Cardiovascular disease (CVD), a broad-spectrum term comprising coronary artery disease, stroke, hypertension, and heart failure, presents as one of the most significant strains on global healthcare systems. Coronary artery disease, caused by atherosclerosis, has various modifiable risk factors such as dietary changes and exercise. Since these risk factors are found to be linked to oxidative stress and inflammations, the dietary supplementation with vitamins' role in treating and preventing the diseases has been of much debate. With various vitamins having anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties, studies have explored their correlation with cardiovascular health. Therefore, this narrative review explores and evaluates the benefits and risks of all vitamin supplementations in patients with CVD and provides future recommendations.
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In 2020, approximately 690,882 people died from CVDs, representing a significant burden on global mortality [1]. Amongst deaths caused by CVDs, 43.8% of the deaths are contributed by coronary artery disease (CAD), followed by stroke, high blood pressure, and heart failure (HF) [2]. Atherosclerosis is the chief etiologic process behind CADs, with its progression related to an interplay between genetic and environmental risk factors [3, 4, 5, 6, 7]. Many of the risk factors of CVDs are presumed to increase the process by promoting inflammation and oxidative stress. Micronutrients, including vitamins, are thought to play a significant role in pathways that lower inflammation and oxidative damage and thus are thought to play a role in reducing CVD risk.
The rationale for taking oral multivitamins is that they promote good health, including the prevention of CVD. Up to 52% of the United States' (US) population takes dietary supplements which includes multivitamins in 31% of the population, vitamin D in 19%, calcium in 14%, and vitamin C supplement which has been reported as high as 52% in various surveys [8, 9]. The uncertainty of whether individuals would benefit from vitamin supplementation has been the subject of numerous investigations. According to the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), the existing data supporting the use of multivitamins or other nutrient supplements to prevent cardiovascular illnesses is poor [10, 11, 12]. This narrative study review assesses the risks and benefits of the most common vitamin supplements used for cardiovascular health.
Preformed vitamin A (retinol and retinyl esters) and provitamin A carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, which are converted to retinol, are the two main forms of vitamin A in the human diet [13]. It is believed to be involved in angiogenesis, oxidative balance, and cellular development, thus, influencing the cardiovascular system and metabolic disorders [14].
Retinoids, vascular responses to damage, and atherogenesis are all related. Proteins involved in vitamin A metabolism, including retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) and aldehyde dehydrogenase 1A1 have been to be associated with metabolic disease [15]. After four days of vitamin A administration, animal studies showed a significant reduction in atheromatous plaque and a decrease in intimal damage via changing the migration and proliferation of smooth muscle cells, which play a crucial role in atherogenesis [16]. According to Noy et al. [17], Vitamin A metabolite all-trans-retinoic acid (RA) regulates growth, remodeling, and metabolic responses in adult tissues. On a cellular level, all trans retinoic acid inhibits neointima formation in endothelial cells by inducing Plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) [18]. Another study [19] demonstrates that retinoid receptors enhance intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) protein expression in endothelial cells which is involved in a number of pathologic conditions including atherosclerosis and stroke. There is evidence to support the theory that increased lutein levels are responsible for the protection provided by vegetables and fruits against CVD. It has antioxidant qualities and stops plasma-damaging complement factors from activating. This was determined by comparing two distinct populations, the Mediterranean and Northern Ireland, and it was discovered that there were no appreciable differences between them in terms of the healthier cardiometabolic characteristics that the first population displayed as a result of the higher plasma concentration of lutein and other antioxidants [20]. A relationship between vitamin A and subclinical atherosclerosis was discovered by assessing circulating retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4), transthyretin (TTR), and the carotid intima-media thickness test (CIMT). Another study states that RBP4 is associated with insulin resistance, diabetes, and atherosclerosis, with retinol being inversely connected to CIMT. Dietary vitamin A showed a significant protective impact against preclinical atherosclerosis, and RBP4 levelss were connected to a specific involvement in atherogenesis [21].
Both studies, ATBC (Alpha-Tocopherol Beta-Carotene Cancer Prevention) and CARET (Beta-Carotene and Retinol Efficacy Trial) assessed the efficacy of beta-carotene in cancer prevention in smokers and included individuals with occupational asbestos exposure [22, 23]; which show no benefit from beta-carotene in terms of the incidence of CVD.
Retinol increases the production of tyrosine hydroxylase, the rate-limiting
enzyme in the synthesis of catecholamines, via activating the nuclear retinoid
receptors, according to another study [24]. In two successive, non-genomic
pathways, Gelain et al. [24] show how retinol stimulates tyrosine
hydroxylase. In patients with heart failure with a low left ventricular ejection
fraction, blocking
B vitamins are a group of eight water-soluble chemicals with chemically different structures that play a crucial role in cell metabolism as coenzymes in several anabolic and catabolic enzymatic activities [29]. Individual B supplements can be used separately because each one has specific properties, such as being a cofactor for essential metabolic processes or a precursor in the same area [30].
Vitamin B1 or Thiamine is an essential component of glucose metabolism. It protects against atherosclerosis by counteracting the damaging effects of high glucose doses on the vascular wall, including chronic inflammation via lipid peroxidation, injury, and infection, all of which increase the risk of dyslipidemia [31]. The intravenous thiamine injection improved cardiac and hemodynamic functions and decreased vascular resistance. Endothelium-dependent vasodilation improved in individuals with hyperglycemia, leading to the recommendation that thiamine should be given regularly to decrease atherogenesis and increase endothelial function [32]. Another study evaluated endothelium-dependent vasodilation in three patient groups: healthy, impaired glucose tolerance, and non-insulin-dependent diabetes, using duplex ultrasonography to quantify brachial artery vasoactivity. It came to the conclusion that thiamine had outstanding effects on endothelial function and the onset of subclinical atherosclerotic disease in hyperglycemic patients predisposed to accelerated atherosclerosis [32]. In other studies, supplementing with vitamin B1 has been shown to significantly reduce vascular inflammation, with negative associations between high levels of thiamine and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc), correspondingly, triglycerides. As a result, continuous vitamin B1 administration may be thought to slow the progression of atherosclerosis [33]. Vitamin B1 can be used as both a marker and a therapeutic agent, and it is thought to play a role in the development and prognosis of atherosclerotic vascular pathology [34]. Thiamine and its derivatives have been shown in both in vitro and animal models to be effective antioxidants that can improve endothelial function in both euglycemic and hyperglycemic conditions. Furthermore, thiamine administration was shown to lower urine microalbumin in both rat experiments and a randomised, double-blind placebo-controlled human pilot study [35, 36]. These findings suggest that thiamine has a significant cardioprotective effect, as urine microalbuminuria, an early predictor of diabetic DM nephropathy, is linked to an increased risk of CVD (cardiovascular disease) in both diabetics and non-diabetics [37]. Many studies have shown the prevalence of thiamine deficiency in patients with HF (3–91%) [38]. According to DiNicolantonio et al. [39] meta-analysis of two trials, thiamine supplementation significantly enhanced the net change in left LVEF (3.28%; 95% CI: 0.64% to 5.93%). Patients in the intensive care unit with cardiac and pulmonary insufficiency (N = 6) were given thiamine injections in progressive doses by Freye et al. [40] where it was found that patients receiving thiamine had a blood pressure increase of at least 20 mm Hg, and a moderate elevation of central venous pressure of 3 mm Hg, without a rise in heart rate, compared to the control group. This demonstrates that thiamine may act in these HF patients as a mild peripheral vasodilator, lowering afterload and increasing cardiac output. These studies show that thiamine supplementation may help patients with systolic HF improve their LVEF even though it is typically not indicated for patients with systolic HF [40].
It is scientifically conceivable to think that proper thiamine supplementation in persons with diabetes could greatly affect metabolic compensation and subsequently the emergence of vascular issues because of its function as an enzyme cofactor in glucose metabolism. It may also impact early phases of poor glucose tolerance, such as metabolic syndrome components. In addition to diabetes, data on surrogate markers of endothelial dysfunction (ED) and CVD suggest that thiamine may be helpful in a more extensive range of disorders. While experimental research has mainly shown that thiamine supplementation/therapy has a positive effect, clinical investigations of sufficient size and length concentrating on the impact of thiamine supplementation/therapy on hard endpoints are currently lacking. Furthermore, it is presently unknown which processes contribute the most to thiamine deficiency. Based on the facts presented, boosting plasma levels alone may not be the best approach because intracellular TDP levels are not a simple reflection of their precursor's plasma levels. Additional experimental research into the molecular processes of thiamine shortage in diabetes is required before providing a definitive response to the diabetic community [41]. It is unlikely that thiamine intake from food sources alone would reach a hazardous level. When nutrient intake is exceedingly high, the body will absorb less of the nutrient and excrete any extra through urine. There is no known toxic level of thiamin [42]. A study investigating the safety of intravenous thiamine for Wernicke's encephalopathy reported a total of 12 adverse reactions (1.1%). Therefore, it was concluded that thiamine hydrochloride might be administered intravenously without undue concern [43].
Foods naturally contain vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin, and is also added to foods and sold as a supplement. Small amounts of riboflavin can be produced by gut bacteria, but not enough to satisfy dietary needs. It is a water-soluble vitamin that exists in two forms, as flavin adenine mononucleotide (FMN) and flavin adenine dinucleotide, both of which function as cofactors (FAD). It is typically present in its cofactor forms, linked to proteins, in a wide variety of meals, primarily meat and dairy. According to a study, vitamin B2 in its FAD coenzyme form plays a significant role in the glutathione redox cycle [44]. Riboflavin deficiency can lead to an increase in oxidized glutathione which results in cellular damage leading to an increase in lipid peroxidation, which can directly impact atherogenic pathways [44]. Riboflavin status influences lipid peroxide generation, implying that oxidative stress is intimately linked to vitamin B2 [45]. These findings show that riboflavin plays a vital role as an antioxidant in the human body's defense system. Reduced consumption can influence the atherosclerotic process by disrupting the oxidant-antioxidant ratio [46]. It has been established that dihydroriboflavin, which is produced from riboflavin by NADPH-dependent flavin reductase, is an efficient reducing agent for heme proteins containing ferric iron and, therefore, a potential antioxidant. Interesting research reveals that riboflavin may prevent tissue damage brought on by ischemia-reperfusion. This protection is most likely provided by dihydro riboflavin, which most likely works with flavin reductase to eliminate oxidised heme proteins [47, 48, 49].
The role of plasma homocysteine as a graded risk factor for CVD has received much attention in recent years [50, 51]. Homocysteine is a thiol-containing amino acid that is formed when the essential amino acid methionine is broken down. It is metabolised by two main pathways: remethylation to methionine, which is reliant on folate, vitamin B-12, and riboflavin; and transsulfuration, which is reliant on vitamin B-6. Evidence for riboflavin's function in homocysteine homeostasis comes from a report of elevated homocysteine levels in the skin of riboflavin-deficient rats [52]. In healthy people, particularly in those homozygous for the prevalent 677CT mutation, riboflavin status was found to be a regulator of plasma homocysteine levels [53]. The Framingham Offspring Cohort demonstrated that riboflavin intake influenced the total plasma homocysteine equally in both men and women [54]. Another study found a folate-riboflavin interaction that is unrelated to genotype in influencing plasma homocysteine [55].
Riboflavin levels in food and supplements have not been found to be toxic. The gut can only absorb so much riboflavin at one time, and any excess is quickly excreted in the urine [56]. As a result, there is no tolerable upper intake level for riboflavin.
Niacin, a water-soluble vitamin, is essential for the metabolism and energy of cells. It can be found in a variety of foods, such as dairy, grains, and meat. Niacin is a precursor of the compound's nicotinamide adenosine dinucleotide (NAD+) and nicotinamide adenosine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP+), which are crucial for the metabolic processes of glycolysis, the tricarboxylic acid cycle, the respiratory chain, and other processes requiring electron transport [57]. Niacin deficiency causes oxidative stress via affecting the cell's redox equilibrium, which explains the lower levels of antioxidant enzymes, and by interfering with glutathione regeneration, which directly affects deactivating peroxides as a stress response [58]. Clinical trials have shown that niacin interferes with atherogenic process by raising plasma high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLc) while decreasing proatherogenic lipids and lipoproteins, HDLc is an independent risk factor for CVD, with lower levels found in healthy women and men [59]. NA also inhibits ED by enhancing the arterial wall's responsiveness to proinflammatory and prothrombotic stimuli, as well as its effect on endothelial cell-released inhibitors of vasorelaxation [60].
After a 15-year follow-up, the Coronary Drug Project, which evaluated the effectiveness and safety of five lipid-modifying medications, including niacin, discovered that niacin had a lower late mortality rate than placebo [61]. Multiple studies have examined the effect of niacin on the atherosclerotic plaque, with most of them involving statins or other CVD-related pharmaco-active drugs, yielding favorable results [62]. A trial group of 50 metabolic syndrome patients with no baseline CVD was randomized to receive a placebo or 1g extended-release niacin; the results concluded that endothelial function improved by 22% in the niacin group compared to the control. Thus, extended-release niacin therapy is likely to improve metabolic parameters by raising HDL-c, lowering triglycerides and atherosclerotic plaques [63].
Randomized Control Trials (RCTs) evaluating the possible benefit of niacin in association with of statin medication Simvastatin, did not show a similar benefit. In comparison to the placebo group, a sizable proportion of patients in the niacin group developed side effects such myopathy, rhabdomyolysis, and abnormal liver function tests [64]. In the Heart Protection Study 2 trial, the niacin group had a similar rate of side effects [65]. In his recently published a meta-analysis Jenkins et al. [66] found that using slow-release niacin did not improve CVD outcomes in individuals on statin medication but does raise the risk of all-cause mortality. Another study reported moderate-quality evidence of niacin significantly increasing the number of participants terminating treatment due to side effects, including flushing, pruritus, rash, and gastrointestinal symptoms, as well as severe new-onset diabetes [67].
Pantothenic acid (PA) is a coenzyme A (CoA) precursor that is required for metabolic activities like the Krebs cycle, fatty acid metabolism, and B-oxidation [68]. C-reactive protein (CRP), a circulating inflammatory marker, can convert oxidised LDLc into foam cells and serve as a long-lasting biomarker for low-grade inflammation, which is especially common in preclinical atherosclerosis [68]. Several studies have found a link between PA and CRP levels, as well as an inverse relationship between LDLc and triglyceride levels, but the mechanisms are still unknown [69, 70]. Pantethine is a nutrient that is produced physiologically in the human body from PA and has been taken as a dietary supplement since 1992. Studies have shown that it significantly lowers serum concentrations of LDLc and total cholesterol [71].
Plasma lipid concentrations are essential in the development and progression of atherosclerosis. Vitamin B5, as a precursor of CoA, has a positive effect on triglyceride synthesis and lipoprotein metabolism, which contributes to the onset and progression of atherosclerosis [34]. Compared to placebo, a 16-week treatment with pantethine in women with underlying CVD, lowered LDLc and total cholesterol, with a substantial reduction in the lipid profile. In addition, women experienced a better decline in non-HDLc levels compared to men, who had higher LDLc fraction findings [72].
Vitamin B6 comprises a group of six water-soluble chemical compounds which
includes pyridoxal (PL), pyridoxamine (PM), pyridoxine (PN), and their
Recent epidemiologic studies have found a link between low vitamin B6 level and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, albeit the precise mechanism is still unknown despite several potential explanations. The fact that vitamin B6 is a coenzyme for numerous processes suggests that it may have a cardioprotective impact. PLP is a coenzyme that is required for numerous metabolic processes, and it has also been linked to inflammation [81, 82], immunological function [82] thrombosis [83, 84], all of which are crucial factors across all phases of the atherosclerotic process. Fig. 1 summarises the proposed candidate processes for atherogenesis linked to vitamin B6.
Mechanisms of the atherogenic effects linked to vitamin B6.
Biotin is a vitamin found in meat, eggs, grains, and vegetables in their natural state. It participates in gluconeogenesis, the metabolism of fatty acids, and certain carboxylation processes as a cofactor [85]. There are currently no studies to prove that biotin deficiency affects atherogenesis or prevents atherosclerosis [86].
Homocysteine is positively associated with an increased risk for CVD. Folic acid may help to reduce the risk of CVD by lowering homocysteine levels in the blood. Folic acid and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) worked together to increase endothelial function over the course of chronic treatment [87]. By lowering plasma homocysteine levels or by directly interacting with eNOS to prevent the production of reactive oxygen species, vitamin B9 may be a useful therapy option for minimising inflammation in preclinical atherosclerosis. Folic acid lowers homocysteine levels and influences eNOS in several CV predictive parameters such as blood pressure, arterial stiffness, endothelial function, and prothrombotic activity following acute or chronic treatment [88].
Homocysteine has been proposed as a modifiable risk factor for CVD in many studies. Homocysteine induces oxidative stress, destroys endothelium, and increases thrombogenicity in animal studies [89, 90, 91]. Homocysteine levels and cardiovascular risk have been linked in epidemiologic research progressively and independently [51, 92, 93, 94]. This finding is significant because homocysteine levels can be easily managed with safe and inexpensive medication.
A four-week experiment on otherwise healthy cigarette smokers showed that treatment with folic acid dramatically lowered homocysteine and fibrinogen levels compared to placebo [95]. The China Stroke Primary Prevention compared adults with hypertension but no prior history of MI or stroke to those taking enalapril with folic acid [96]. After a median follow-up of 4.5 years, the incidence of ischemic stroke and composite cardiovascular events was significantly lower in the group receiving enalapril with folic acid. Patients with low baseline folate levels saw more significant benefits.
Although folic acid (pteroylglutamic acid) taken orally is typically not hazardous to healthy people, it can cause neurological injury if they have untreated pernicious anaemia. Drug-treated epileptic patients should use caution when taking the vitamin because seizure control may be impaired. Folic acid supplements reduce intestinal zinc absorption in people and animals, according to some studies while other research contradicts this. The weight of evidence indicates that daily folic acid supplementation of 5–15 mg has no notable adverse effects [97].
The water-soluble vitamin cobalamin, which is required for cell metabolism, can be found in diet, notably in animal products [98]. Numerous research looked into the relationship between cardiovascular health and vitamin B12 intake. Vitamin B12 levels have also been linked to unfavourable blood lipid profiles in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus, particularly with regard to triglycerides and the cholesterol/HDL ratio through inhibition of carnitine palmitoyl transferase, the rate-limiting enzyme of fatty acid oxidation [99]. By limiting homocysteine conversion to methionine, vitamin B12 deficiency increased homocysteine, a risk factor for CVD [100]. Low B12 vitamin levels are thought to raise cardiovascular risk, partly through direct effects [101]. Hyperhomocysteinemia caused by dietary deficit is mild but leads to higher risk of atherogenesis through endoplasmic reticulum stress, pro-inflammatory response, and oxidative stress are linked to a When 158 healthy siblings of patients with premature atherothrombotic disease received cobalamin therapy to lower homocysteinemia, the incidence of atherosclerotic events was lower than in the placebo group [102]. In a different study, it was discovered that males with higher homocysteine levels have a higher risk of having an atherothrombotic process [103]. The "B-Vitamin Atherosclerosis Interventional Trial" (BVAIT) investigated whether homocysteine is a marker or the root cause of atherosclerotic vascular pathology in light of the association between high homocysteine levels and an increased risk of CVD (cardiovascular disease) and produced a number of encouraging results. In individuals without a history of CVD, high vitamin B dosages (folate 5 mg, vitamin B12 0.4 mg, and vitamin B6 50 mg) reduced the onset of subclinical atherosclerosis [104].
However, a meta-analysis assessing the relationship between vitamin B supplementation and cardiovascular outcomes found that it had little to no impact on reducing CVD events (RR, 0.98; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.93–1.03; p = 0.37), total mortality (RR, 1.01; 95% CI: 0.97–1.05; p = 0.77), cardiac death (RR, 0.96; 95% CI: 0.90–1.02; p = 0.21), MI (RR, 0.99; 95% CI: 0.93–1.06; p = 0.82), or stroke (RR, 0.94; 95% CI: 0.85–1.03; p = 0.18). Although in some patient subgroups, initial CVD prevention appeared to be more beneficial than secondary prevention when vitamin B intake was increased [105]. In general, studies have not revealed any effects of specific B vitamin supplements on the development of subclinical atherosclerosis in those without baseline CVD. Despite the paucity of research on the clinical effects of excess vitamin B12 caused by multiple oral doses of cyanocobalamin, a case of a woman was reported who received multiple daily doses of 1 mg of cyanocobalamin for severe pernicious anaemia was reported. She experienced acne, palpitations, anxiety, akathisia, facial ruddiness, headaches, and insomnia, which subsided two weeks after the drug trial was stopped [106].
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, serves as an important micronutrient and antioxidant for the body. It functions as a reducing agent as it acts as an electron donor while itself being oxidized to a radical, thereby helping in mediating reactive oxygen species-induced damage, as well as regenerating other antioxidants [107]. It has both enzymatic and non-enzymatic functions, however, in the context of cardiovascular health, vitamin C has shown to have positive impacts on reducing oxidative stress and damage, blood pressure, and improving endothelial function among other risk factors of atherosclerosis [108, 109, 110, 111].
Various types of studies have highlighted the benefit of vitamin C on cardiovascular health, attributing its positive impacts to its antioxidant capabilities. One review established that supplementation with vitamin C reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressures [112], and another study suggested that vitamin C has a protective effect on arterial stiffness [113], both associated factors for atherosclerosis. A review of RCTs determined the effect of ascorbic acid supplementation on endothelial function. The authors found that an improvement in endothelial function was seen in doses greater than 500 mg/d and a better effect was noted in those with a higher CVD risk [109]. Antioxidants like vitamin C have been found to contribute to endothelial function by regulating nitric oxide level of the endothelium, and impeding inflammation, lipid peroxidation, platelet oxidation, and LDL oxidation - factors that can worsen the status of ED [114]. In the European Prospective Investigation of Cancer (EPIC) - Norfolk study, plasma ascorbic acid's relationship with mortality was examined in 19,496 men and women. An inverse relationship existed between ascorbic acid and cardiovascular risk factors. Plasma ascorbic acid concentration was also found to be inversely related to ischemic heart disease (IHD) and mortality due to CVD [115]. A meta-analysis of 16 prospective studies found a notable inverse relationship between dietary consumption and circulating vitamin C levels and the risk of stroke [116].
Vitamin C is generally tolerable at high dosages in healthy individuals. There is a possibility that high levels may lead to the formation of kidney stones, risk of iron overload, or even hemolysis in glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficient people [117]. There is very limited data on the negative impacts of vitamin C-only supplementation on cardiovascular health. One important study to be noted is the Iowa Women's Health Study which examined how vitamin C would alter the mortality from CVD in postmenopausal diabetic women. A disturbing association was noted; supplementing high doses of vitamin C was associated with an increased risk of CVD mortality [118]. Other negative association of vitamin C in postmenopausal women has been noted while being co-supplemented with vitamin E, further explained later in the article in the 'recommendations' section.
To summarize, vitamin C is one of the most important vitamins required for cardiovascular health. Though few studies are highlighting the risks in postmenopausal women, a regular intake should be recommended to individuals at risk of any form of CVD.
The group of secosteroids, Vitamin D, well known for its vital role in homeostasis of calcium and bone mineralization, falls under one of the most common nutritional deficiencies worldwide, prevalent in more than one billion people [119]. Even though the effects of this vitamin have been widely researched in various medical conditions and diseases, establishing a strong clinical relation between vitamin D and its influence on cardiovascular health has been difficult. Since the finding of vitamin D receptor (VDR), an intracellular receptor, in various cardiovascular tissues such as cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells of the vasculature, and platelets, amongst others [120], the topic of vitamin D's role in CVD has been of much debate. In addition to the VDR, vitamin D–binding proteins in the blood circulation, whose concentration and binding affinity, if affected, has been stated to lead to a risk of vitamin D deficiency and other CVDs [121].
Evidence from existing literature documents various roles of vitamin D which have been postulated in modulating CVD, such as atherosclerosis, blood pressure, IHD, and cardiac failure [120, 122, 123]. Since VDRs are also found on vascular endothelial cells, studies have revealed possible vitamin D effects linked to endothelial function. In a study by Zhang et al. [124], endothelial function was assessed by measuring and comparing brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (BAFMD), sE-selectin and soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 in 117 non-dialysis chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. The results concluded that BAFMD was lower in patients with low-to-no vitamin D levels than in individuals with normal vitamin D levels. The remaining findings also showed associations and correlations that indicated low-to-deficient vitamin D levels with ED [124]. With the relation between vitamin D deficiency and ED, and the fact that ED also correlates to an increased risk in CVD mainly by contributing to hypertension and atherosclerosis [122, 125], it can be assumed that there is indirect causation of vitamin D deficiency in CVD. Many studies have also shown an inverse relationship between plasma 25(OH)D levels and hypertension, one even concluding that vitamin D can be used as an 'adjuvant therapy for patients with grades I–II essential hypertension' [126, 127]. The protective nature of vitamin D against myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke has been hypothesized and studied, mainly displaying results in favor of the hypothesis. In a review by Muscogiuri [123] in which the effects of vitamin D on CVD, mainly MI and stroke was explored, studies confirmed that vitamin D might protect against these CVDs, in contrast to a few that proposed the opposite. However, it was made sure that hypovitaminosis D promotes atheroma formation and increases the risk of vessel wall calcification, factors both which contribute heavily to major CVDs [128].
Large-scale randomized trials have produced results that do not favor the
hypothesis of vitamin D supplementation providing any benefit against CVD. For
example, VITAL, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to examine
the benefits and risks of vitamin D
Vitamin E is an essential, lipid-soluble, non-enzymatic antioxidant, which exists in 2 primary forms, tocopherols and tocotrienols, each having four subtypes (a-, b-, g-, and d-) [133]. Its importance mainly lies with the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, as seen in numerous in vitro and animal studies. Its role in lipid peroxidation has mainly brought forward the idea of its potential cardioprotective effects.
Studies have usually shown an inverse association between plasma concentrations of antioxidants and CVD [134, 135]. A possible mode of action of vitamin E that likely contributes to reduced risk of CVD is through the antioxidant protection of LDL [136]. Oxidized LDL attracts circulating monocytes and inhibits macrophage movement in the intima. Oxidatively modified LDL uptake via scavenger receptors of macrophages, therefore, then leads to cholesterol-laden foam cells and fatty-streak formation - causing atherosclerosis. Another way of preventing formations and/or progression of the fatty streak is via inhibiting platelet adherence and aggregation, which vitamin E is believed to carry out [137]. In oxidative stress, a decrease in d-a-tocopherol levels from smooth muscle cells results in the growth and proliferation of these cells, which contributes to atherosclerosis [136].
Patients undergoing hemodialysis treatment for end-stage renal disease have been
found to have an increased risk of cardiovascular events [138]. A study by Mune
et al. [139] investigated the vitality of vitamin E supplementation on
HDL and endothelial function in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients
undergoing hemodialysis. The study showed promising positive results and
concluded that the supplementation significantly improved HDL function of
cholesterol efflux capacity and endothelial function [139]. A daily supplement of
400–800 IU is recommended in secondary prevention of cardiovascular events in
maintenance hemodialysis patients [140]. A 30-year prospective cohort analysis
analyzed the effect of serum
Studies have highlighted that there are no effects and/or adverse effects on the
cardiovascular system due to vitamin E supplementation. The Physicians' Health
Study II randomized trial explored the effect of long-term supplementation of
vitamin E and C on the risk of CV events in over 14,600 men. After ten years, the
study concluded that vitamin E or vitamin C had no significant effects on the
primary endpoint of major cardiovascular events, individual cardiovascular events
(including MI and total stroke), cardiovascular mortality, and adverse effects
such as hematuria, easy bruising, and epistaxis. However, it is to be noted that
a significant association was seen between vitamin E and increased risk of
hemorrhagic stroke (HR, 1.74; 95% CI, 1.04–2.91; p = 0.036) [142]. In
a trial in 28,519 male cigarette smokers, a 50% higher risk of subarachnoid
hemorrhage with 50 mg per day of
It is possible that vitamin E only offers benefits to cardiovascular health in certain patient groups such as those under high oxidative stress, however, more insight regarding the relation of its antioxidant nature with reducing CVD risk is required.
Vitamin K, which occurs in two forms, vitamin K-1 (phylloquinone) and vitamin K-2 (menaquinones (MKs) [146], is well known for its essential role in hemostasis, where it serves as a cofactor for coagulative and anticoagulative factors' synthesis. It plays a vital role in the management of CVD besides the coagulative pathway. It is responsible for the first part of a two-step activation of Matrix Gla Protein (MGP) (as shown in Fig. 2), a vitamin K-dependent protein (VKDP) that is required for impeding vascular calcification (VC); a characteristic marker of atherosclerosis, especially in coronary arteries [146]. In fact, in patients diagnosed with CKD, for whom the most common cause of death is CVD, mainly due to the fatal progression of VC, vitamin K supplementation has been explored to decrease CVD-specific mortality [147, 148]. MGP is released by chondrocytes and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). A laboratory study on mouse models found that of MGP in arteries rescues only the arterial mineralization aspect of the MGP deficient mice, whereas its expression in osteoblasts inhibits bone mineralization [149]. This means that increased systemic levels of active MGP will not affect vascular calcification, indicating the importance of its synthesis via VSMCs and hence adequate vitamin K levels. To identify the vitamin deficiency status, the levels of desphospho-uncarboxylated MGP (dp-ucMGP) or other VKDPs serve as serum markers [150].
Two-step activation of the Matrix Gla Protein. dpuc, dephosphorylated uncarboxylated; dpc, dephosphorylated carboxylated; pc, phosphorylated carboxylated.
Several studies have backed up the positive role of vitamin K in reducing the risk of CVD. A population-based study, the Rotterdam Study, examined the effects of the intake of both forms of vitamin K primarily on aortic calcification and coronary heart disease (CHD) in 4807 participants. The results showed that though phylloquinone intake had no association with any CVD events, menaquinone intake was significantly associated with the decreased risk of incident-CHD (RR = 0.59), CHD mortality (RR = 0.43), and all-cause mortality (RR = 0.74). Additionally, with severe arterial calcification, a strong negative correlation with menaquinone intake was seen. This study concluded that menaquinone-rich diets might help prevent CHD, likely by mediating arterial calcification inhibition [151]. Zwakenberg et al. [152] reported that vitamin K intake had no association with CVD but noted the possibility of higher intake of long-chain menaquinones associated with a reduced risk of CHD mortality. Another prospective cohort analysis aimed to evaluate the association of the two forms of vitamin K with cardiovascular mortality concluded that both forms likely have a protective role in cardiovascular health [153]. Supplementation of phylloquinone was also shown to slow the progression of VC of the coronary artery in older adults who had varying forms of pre-existing calcification [154]. A high dose of vitamin K-2 intake was found to protect against CHD, associating this protective effect to the higher subtypes, mainly MK-7, MK-8, and MK-9 [155].
As all vitamins have mixed effects shown by various studies, vitamin K is no different. One study examining the association between forms of vitamin K's effect on reduced stroke risk did not find any association between phylloquinone and menaquinones' intake with stroke [156]. Another trial monitored whether supplementation of the vitamin K-2 would affect vascular stiffness in patients with CKD by primarily measuring the carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity and secondarily the blood pressure, abdominal aortic calcification, physical function, and serum markers of vascular health. The results indicated that K2 supplementation had no impact on vascular stiffness or calcification [150]. A randomized controlled trial assessing MK-7 supplementation on VC in type 2 diabetic patients showed increased active VC on 18F-NaF Positron emission tomography (PET) scan [157]. However, the fact that there was a lack of patients with vitamin K deficiency in the patients' group could have influenced the results.
The effect of vitamin K supplementation does show a potential role in lowering the risk of CVD by reducing vascular stiffness and calcification. With few large-scale randomized controlled trials to date, more research and in-depth analysis is required to explore the detailed impact of vitamin K's effects on reducing CVD risk.
Vitamins C and E: Co-supplementation of these two antioxidant vitamins has been proposed to be beneficial due to their synergistic activity. It was reported that vitamin E acts as the primary antioxidant and thereby produces a radical, which is reduced and regenerated by vitamin C, producing a vitamin C radical. The vitamin C radical, in turn, is regenerated via the NADH-oxidation system [158]. A clinical trial by Salonen et al. [159] studied the efficacy of co-supplementation of the antioxidant vitamins E and C on the progression of carotid atherosclerosis in smoking and nonsmoking men and postmenopausal women. The authors concluded that with the proper doses of both vitamin E and slow-release vitamin C, the progression of common carotid atherosclerosis in men could be retarded [159]. A case-control study to assess the oxidative stress management in CVD by antioxidant vitamins concluded results that favored the supplementation of the stated combination [160]. However, this form of co-supplementation is not advised for postmenopausal women, as indicated in The Women's Angiographic Vitamin and Estrogen (WAVE) Trial, where those taking high doses of vitamins C and E were found to have an increase in cardiovascular mortality [161].
Vitamin D and K: Vitamin D and K, both fat-soluble vitamins, have been shown to have a collaborative effect on human health. Vitamin D promotes the synthesis of VKDPs, which play an imperative role in cardiovascular health. A review by van Ballegooijen et al. [162] concluded that the appropriate concentrations of vitamin D and K supplemented together will be beneficial for reducing the risk of CVD, but a simultaneous intake of calcium can be harmful as it may likely contribute to soft tissue calcification and CVD. A prospective cohort study investigated the relation between vitamin D and K serum level markers and cardiovascular health markers such as LV systolic function and cardiac structure. In the group that had low levels of vitamin D and K, it was found that they had an increased left ventricular mass index and an increased risk of all-cause mortality [163].
Vitamin E and Magnesium: A recent meta-analysis evaluated the influence of magnesium and vitamin E co-supplementation on several CV risk factors in patients with metabolic disorders. A significant decrease in fasting plasma glucose, insulin, triglyceride, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein was seen, while no noteworthy effect on the body weight, body mass index, and high-density lipoprotein in the patients was stated [164].
• It was addressed by Dr. M. C. Morris, and Dr. C. C. Tangney that many RCTs being conducted regarding vitamin supplementation indicate no positive or true results due to testing in the 'wrong type' of population. These trials should involve people with deficient status of vitamin levels rather than healthy individuals who supposedly have a relatively better intake [165].
• High doses of vitamin C in postmenopausal women are dangerous to cardiovascular health as stated earlier [118, 161]. Another study also found that increased vitamin C intake was associated with a greater risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women [166]. Therefore, with the current lack of detailed insight regarding this, the use of vitamin supplements in this population should be explored and studied further. Until solid guidelines are formed, high dosage vitamin C supplementation should not be recommended to postmenopausal women, especially those suffering from one or more chronic diseases.
• Increased levels of homocysteine are an important modulator for the development of cardiovascular and peripheral arterial disease. Regulating adequate levels of vitamins involved in regulating this pathway can substantially reduce the risk of CVD and its associated co-morbidities. This can be done via supplementation with Vitamin B2, B6, B9, and B12.
• It's also important to remember that taking supplements can have adverse effects that appear gradually. Numerous RCTs have documented both significant and minor negative effects. The ATBC and CARET studies focused on the potential benefits of beta-carotene supplementation in people with a high baseline risk of developing lung cancer, and both trials found that higher-risk participants receiving beta-carotene had a higher incidence of lung cancer [167]. In the vitamin E arm of PHS II, there was a documented rise in hemorrhagic stroke cases. Extended follow-up in the SELECT study revealed an elevated prostate cancer risk [168]. Rashes and mild bleeding incidents while taking multivitamins, gastrointestinal issues after taking beta-carotene, hypercarotenemia or yellowing of the skin, and gastrointestinal symptoms with selenium [167].
To summarize, in Table 1 (Ref. [17, 18, 20, 33, 34, 35, 53, 60, 64, 86, 88, 89, 90, 91, 102, 104, 105, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 122, 124, 125, 128, 136, 137, 138, 139, 140, 151, 154]) the authors have briefly stated the promising outcomes of various vitamins' supplementation on cardiovascular health. Fig. 3 outlines the mechanisms of action by which vitamins offer cardioprotection. In addition, although every vitamin has been found to decrease the chances of atherosclerosis in one way or the other, there are several studies also indicating no benefits and a few even hinting at its negative impacts, as highlighted in Table 2 (Ref. [23, 118, 142, 143, 144, 145, 148]). In Table 3 (Ref. [128, 150, 169, 170, 171, 172, 173, 174, 175, 176, 177, 178, 179]), we briefly outline some of the recent clinical trials that explored the relationship between vitamin supplementation and CVD.
Mechanism of action of vitamins offering cardioprotection.
Vitamin | Effect on cardiovascular system | |
A | Prevents atherosclerosis by | |
B | B1 | Slows progression of atherogenesis by |
B7 | No proven evidence [86] | |
B12 | Prevents formation of atherosclerotic plaque by lowering homocysteine levels [102, 104, 105] | |
Vitamin | Author | Type of study | Period of study | Patient population | Harmful effect |
A | Omenn et al. [23] | RCT | 1985–1998 | 1029 men and women with extensive histories of cigarette smoking | Rate of death due to cardiovascular causes was higher by 26 percent |
C | Lee et al. [118] | Observational Study | 1986–2000 | 1923 diabetic postmenopausal women | Increased risk of cardiovascular disease mortality |
E | Sesso et al. [142] | RCT | 1997–2007 | 14,600 men | Increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke |
Leppälä et al. [143] | RCT | 1985–1993 | 28,519 male cigarette smokers | Increased risk of subarachnoid hemorrhage | |
Wang et al. [144] | Mendelian Randomization | - | 7781 individuals of European descent | Increased risk of coronary artery disease and myocardial infarction | |
The HOPE and HOPE-TOO Trial Investigators [145] | RCT | 1993–2003 | 7030 with vascular disease or diabetes mellitus | Increased rate of heart failure | |
C and E | Waters et al. [148] | RCT | 1997–2002 | 423 postmenopausal women with varying degrees of coronary stenosis | Worsened mean lumen diameter and increased cardiovascular mortality |
RCT, Randomized Controlled Trial. |
Vitamin | Author | Period of study | Patient population | Control group | Primary outcomes | Secondary and/or other outcomes | Results |
B1 | Smithline et al. [169] | January 2008–June 2012 | 130 hospitalized patients with acute heart failure | 60 participants | Effect of thiamine supplementation on dyspnea | Spirometry rate, type B natriuretic peptide, free fatty acids, hyperglycemia, length of stay in the hospital, 30-day rehospitalization, and death. | Standard thiamine treatment did not improve dyspnea, biomarkers, or other clinical parameters in patients with mild-moderate acute heart failure who did not have thiamine deficiency. |
B2 | RIBOGENE Trial [170] | February 2013–December 2017 | 243 participants | - | Blood Pressure | Erythrocyte Glutathione Reductase Activation Coefficient (EGRAC) [indicator of vitamin status], plasma homocysteine and red cell folate, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12. | Not Published. |
RAFA Trial [171] | June 2011–August 2019 | 2564 participants | - | Blood Pressure | Central blood pressure, pulse wave analysis, pulse wave velocity, red blood cell riboflavin, red blood cell folate, serum homocysteine, and plasma vitamin B6. | Not Published. | |
B3 | Abott Study [172] | February 2010–May 2012 | 128 participants | - | Effectiveness of Niaspan (Niacin) | Evaluation of changes in non-HDL-C. lipids, LDL-C, total cholesterol, and triglycerides against base line values, frequency of flushing events and overall safety and tolerability of Niaspan. | Rise in mean HDL-c was noted. |
B6 | VITATOPS Trial Study Group [173] | November 1998–June 2009 | 8164 participants | 4075 participants | Non-fatal stroke, non-fatal myocardial infarction, or death due to vascular causes | - | The use of B vitamins to prevent recurrent strokes is not supported by these results. The results of ongoing trials and individual patient data of the impact of B vitamins will have more statistical strength. |
B9 | SEARCH study collaborative group [174] | July 1998–May 2008 | 12,064 participants | 6031 participants | Major Vascular Events (MVE) | MVEs individually in Years 1 and Later Years, MVEs in patients divided into 3 groups based on baseline LDL, MVEs in presence and absence of the other factorial therapy, Major Coronary Events, MI without death, MI with death or revascularization, and total strokes. | In this cohort, decreasing homocysteine with folic acid and vitamin B12 supplementation is not linked to a decline in cardiovascular events. |
B12 | G Bostom et al. [175] | May 2002–October 2011 | 4110 participants | - | Recurrent or de Novo Arteriosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) Defined as the Occurrence of Non-fatal or Fatal Arteriosclerotic Outcomes Including Coronary Heart, Cerebrovascular, and Peripheral Vascular Disease Events | Renal Graft Failure, Mortality (All-cause), Fatal/Non-fatal Myocardial Infarction (MI), Fatal/Non-fatal Stroke, Resuscitated Sudden Death (RSD), CVD Death, Coronary Artery Revascularization), Lower Extremity Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), Carotid Endarterectomy or Angioplasty, Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair, Renal Artery Revascularization. | Despite a considerable decrease in homocysteine levels, treatment with a high-dose folic acid, B6, and B12 multivitamin did not lower a composite cardiovascular disease outcome, all-cause mortality, or dialysis-dependent kidney failure in kidney transplant recipients. |
D | Theiler-Schwetz et al. [176] | 2011–2014 | 200 participants | 100 participants | 24-hour systolic ambulatory blood pressure | 24-hour diastolic blood pressure, plasma aldosterone and renin concentration, and pulse wave velocity. | A marginal significant inverse relationship was noted between concentrations of 25(OH)D with 24-hour systolic BP. No significant treatment effect was noted on secondary outcome measures. |
VITAL/Manson et al. [128] | 2010–2025 | 25,871 | 6474 (complete placebo) | Invasive cancer of any type and major cardiovascular events | Site-specific cancers, death from cancer, and additional cardiovascular events. | Vitamin D supplementation did not lower the incidence of invasive cancer or cardiovascular events in comparison to placebo. | |
Angellotti et al. [177] | 48 weeks | 127 stable type-2 diabetic patients | 61 participants | Disposition Index | Number of participants with change in glycemia. HbA1c, cardiovascular risk factors, effect on plasma concentrations of surrogate biomarkers of cholesterol. | One year of vitamin D3 supplementation of 4000 IU/day did not affect any of the outcome measures except that it led to an improvement of triglycerides among patients not on cholesterol medication. | |
K | The K4Kidneys Randomized Controlled Trial/Witham et al. [150] | 12 months | 159 participants with chronic kidney disease stage 3b or 4 | 79 participants | Difference in pulse wave velocity between-group at 12 months | Other markers of vascular health (e.g., augmentation index, abdominal aortic calcification, blood pressure, physical function, and blood markers of mineral metabolism and vascular health). | Vitamin K2 supplementation did not have any positive effect on vascular stiffness or other measures of vascular health. |
Mansour et al. [178] | March 2015–May 2016 | 60 participants | - | Reduction From Baseline in Carotid-femoral Pulse Wave Velocity at 8 Weeks | Change from baseline in central pressure and augmentation index by ambulatory hemodynamic measurement, and blood concentration of dephosphorylated-uncarboxylated Matrix Gla Protein (Dp-ucMGP) at 8 Weeks. | Vitamin K2 supplementation improved subclinical vitamin K deficiency and arterial stiffness in renal transplant recipients with stable graft function. | |
ViKTORIES trial/Lees et al. [179] | September 2017–June 2018 | 90 participants | 45 participants | Between-group difference measured by MRI-based ascending aortic distensibility at 12 months | Between-group differences at 12 months of coronary artery calcification score, carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity and augmentation index, MRI measures of cardiac structure and function, office blood pressure, electrocardiogram, calcium metabolism, and bone turnover markers, transplant function, proteinuria, and quality of life. | There was no impact of vitamin K on vascular calcification, vascular stiffness, nor any other outcome measure. |
However, due to the lack of absolute evidence on the relationship between vitamin supplementation and cardiovascular health, effective primary CV prevention requires multifactorial control of all major risk factors, as recently demonstrated in the randomized multicenter study NID-2 [180]. The authors suggest that the aforementioned recommendations be put in play, with the due emphasis to be given to the planning and execution of large-scale randomized controlled trials in populations where the actual impact of vitamin supplementation could be monitored thereby helping in establishing the true relationship between vitamins and cardiovascular health.
Not applicable.
Data sharing is not applicable to this article as no datasets were generated or analyzed during the current study.
FY, SHA, AN—Conception of the study, drafting of the work, editing, reviewing, and agreeing to the accuracy of the work. SS, MSIA, NK, FF, SK, ISS, HSA, MN—Drafting of the work, editing, and final approval of the study to be submitted. HN, MSA—Drafting of the work, and final approval of the study to be submitted.
Not applicable.
Not applicable.
This research received no external funding.
The authors declare no conflict of interest.
Publisher's Note: IMR Press stays neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.


text:
I notice that everytime I change Country, State/Province in checkout page, it reloads the Shipping Methods section. Depending on the country/state, it would be 1 or 2 shipping methods.
If I choose UK, there is only 1 shipping method
If I choose US; there is 2 shipping methods
I wonder how it can listen to the input changes and which function in checkout module updates shipping methods. Could you guys show me?

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Lynx Air launches low-cost flights across Canada with three MAX 8s; 14 routes serving 10 airports
The skies of Canada welcomed a new airline last week when Calgary-based Lynx Air (IATA code Y9) launched its first route between Calgary and Vancouver on Thursday 7 April. However, the airline is not quite as new as it seems as it has evolved out of Enerjet, which received its Canadian AOC as long ago as November 2008. Then CEO and President Tim Morgan had been one of the founders of WestJet. Data from planespotters.net indicates that Enerjet operated a total of nine 737-700s and -800s between October 2008 and April 2017, though never more than four at any one time. The carrier appears to have focussed on charters, in particular for the energy industry.
Reinvented as a ULCC with plans for almost 50 aircraft by the end of the decade
Lynx Air was born last November, and its current fleet comprises three 189-seat 737 MAX 8s. The aircraft have the registrations C-GJSL, C-FULI and C-FULH. A recent press release from the airline stated that it plans to have a fleet of 46 aircraft by 2029. The airline's CEO is Australian Merren McArthur, who has had previous airline experience with Virgin Australia and was CEO of Tigerair Australia between May 2018 and November 2019.
So far, the airline has announced and put on sale 14 domestic routes involving a total of 10 Canadian airports, all the way from Victoria in British Columbia in the west of the country to St. John's in Newfoundland in the east. The first route launched last week, and six more routes will start before the end of April. A further two routes will start in May, four in June and one in July. Frequencies are set to be ramped up on several routes as the summer season progresses.
Competition will be intense on almost all routes
Analysis of Cirium schedule data for August reveals how the airline's planned frequencies on its 14 routes compares with those of its competitors. There are six routes from both Calgary and Toronto, four from Vancouver and three from Winnipeg. Lynx is offering two non-stop routes from Halifax, Hamilton and Kelowna and just one each from Edmonton, St. John's and Victoria.
Not surprisingly, at this stage Lynx Air has a relatively small market share apart from on its two routes from Hamilton. Lynx's most served route is its launch route between Calgary and Vancouver, one of the airline's shorter routes at just 670 kilometres. Despite offering a double-daily service in August, this represents just 7% of all the planned weekly frequencies. On the two Hamilton routes it will have between 20% and 30% of flights, while between Toronto and St. John's Lynx will account for 11% of flights. In all other markets it will have less than 10% of flights.
Of course, August is still several months away and Lynx may adjust its schedules and frequencies in response to advanced bookings which can often give an early signal as to whether or not a route is going to work, especially in the low-cost point-to-point market. Canada's other carriers may also make changes to their schedules and frequencies. Air Service One will be watching with interest.


text:
The simple elastic band is making a comeback with top PTs – find out why
There's no doubt that the workout world is becoming increasingly high tech. According to data from Compare Cover (comparecover. com), a whopping 27 percent of British Adults now owns a fitness tracker of some kind, and cutting-edge technology such as smart devices, on-demand classes and personal- coaching apps are being used to motivate everyday exercisers. But, while fitness fans spend small fortunes on the latest exercise electronics, a humble workout tool is coming to the fore as one of the most popular ways to work up a sweat – the resistance band.
Everyone's using it – athletes, celebrity trainers and fitness influencers. Not since its heyday in the 1980s has the resistance band been so popular. The stretchy band is incredibly handy – you can slip it over ankles, thighs and wrists to work common trouble zones such as the butt and upper arms. It's a great warm-up tool, often used to activate chosen muscle groups before a workout. What's more, the resistance bandis cheap (Amazon sells them for as little as£2.49) and portable. Autumn Calabrese, creator of the 21 Day Fix fitness programme (beachbodyondemand.com), uses resistance bands in her workouts. 'Resistance bands are making a comeback because they're a great way to isolate different muscles,' she says. 'They're so very versatile and easy to travel with, so you can take them anywhere and still get a good workout.' What's not to love?
Resistance Band Exercises and Workouts Photo Gallery
The question is: does the science stack up? Can you really reap results without weights machines? Bands may not look as intimidating as a loaded barbell, but research shows that fitness fans can get just as strong using resistance bands as they can when using more bulky equipment. One study from Truman State University in America, for example, reports that participants who added resistance- banded bench presses to their training programme had a greater increase in bench-press strength than those who relied on just free-weight training. And anecdotal evidence suggests that many feel a deep burn in the muscles when resistance band training, which experts put down to the fact that resistance increases as the band gets stretched.
The best bit is that these bands come in all shapes and sizes to suit a range of fitness levels and activities. Flat and thin bands boast different intensities (the thicker ones tend to offer a greater resistance) and are often used for exercises that need a bit more stretch, such as front raises or squat presses. Small looped bands are easy to carry around and handy for moves that require slipping a band around the legs, such as monster walks or banded glute bridges. Tubed bands often come with handles, making them great for curls and presses. And bungee-style bands make great pieces of power kit for broad jumps and on-the-spot runs, not to mention provide excellent tools for adding more resistance to press-ups, and aiding pull-ups. 'Consider what your goal is,' adds Calabrese. 'If you want strength, use a heavier resistance band. If you want endurance, opt for a medium-to-light band that you can do lots of reps with. If you're using the band around your legs, you might need a stronger band that won't have any slack. But, if you need a full range of motion, lighten up.' As with all exercise, remember form and technique is key.
Short on time? Grab a couple of bands (try a Powerband MINI and Powerband MAX) and do this full-body blast from letsbands.com
Strengthens the glutes, leg muscles and lower backPlace a small band above your knees and take a hip-to-shoulder-width stance. With your toes pointing forwards, get the band under tension by pushing your knees out. Put your weight on your heels and lower yourself into a squat position. Keep your back straight and your core tight. Come back up by squeezing your glutes and pushing yourself up through your heels.
Strengthens the shoulder muscles Stand on a large band with one foot and an offset stance. Grab the band and have both arms straight down by your sides.Make sure the band's slightly under tension. Extend your arms up to shoulder level, then lower them back down.Keep pulling your shoulders down and away from your ears.
Strengthens the shoulder and leg muscles, while challenging the core Step on a large band and hold the other end. Find your balance on one leg and pull the other leg up towards your chest. Pull the band up to shoulder height and width. Engage your core and glute muscles. Press the band over your head until your arms are straight. Slowly lower back to the start.
Improves core stability Place a small band around your wrists. Get on all fours with your knees lifted off the ground and bring the band under tension.Pull your shoulders down and away from your ears. Crawl forwards and backwards with opposing limbs moving at the same time. Keep the band under tension, your back straight and your hips as stable as possible without rotating to the sides. Keep Your knees off the ground the whole time.
Activates and strengthens the glutes, hamstrings and calves Place a small band above your knees and lie on your back. Bend your knees and put your feet on the floor with your toes flexed. Put your arms down by your sides with your palms facing up. Lift your hips, then extend one leg out in front of you while keeping your hips in the same position. Keep your glutes tight and core braced, then bring your leg back in and swap sides.
Activates the core and leg muscles Start by placing a small band slightly below your knees. Get into a side plank position supported with one hand and the other arm reaching straight above you. Keep your hips high off the ground and your core braced. While maintaining a stable side-plank position, raise your top leg against the resistance of the band while keeping the leg straight.
BAND TOGETHER: For all your resistance band needs, try Let's Bands (letsbands.com) which offers a great range of elastic-band training equipment and resistance-band exercise advice. We love the Power Set Max (£36.50; letsbands.com), which comes with three mini bands, one power band, a carry bag and a booklet full of moves. Amazing.
Table of Contents
Maybe You Like Them Too
- Mastering Virabhadrasana A: The Warrior Pose of Empowerment
- Embracing the Essence of Wide Legged Forward Bend: A Deep Dive
- Unlocking the Power of Prasarita Padottanasana: The Wide-Legged Forward Bend
- The Power and Elegance of the Wide Legged Forward Bend II Yoga Pose
- Mastering the Warrior II Pose: A Deep Dive into Its Benefits and Techniques


text:
- This refers to the phenomenon where an individual is able to convince people around him of the possibility of successfully completing tasks that look impossible at first sight.
- The term was used by Bud Tribble, an employee at the technology company Apple, to describe the attitude of the company's co-founder Steve Jobs who used his persistence and skills of persuasion to push his employees to carry out difficult tasks with tight deadlines.
- In a sense, by projecting hard things to look easy and attainable, Jobs tricked his employees into believing that difficult tasks could actually be completed successfully according to the plans of their demanding boss.


text:
The tendency when dealing with sports is to overreact. Football and college athletics in general often strike an even more emotional chord with fans following their teams and schools. Even the opinions and reactions of opposing fans often live in the world of extremes and don't take into account the big picture.
For Kansas the big picture certainly looks to be one of building, rebuilding or whatever phrase you choose to use. But taking a step back, there were some positives signs in Hattiesburg, Miss., that provide some hope as the Jayhawks continue to transition to a new coach and a new system.
Offensively Kansas is in the process of transitioning from a pass, pass, pass offense to one that provides a little more balance. Turner Gill and Chuck Long have talked about maintaining the time of possession, moving the chains and trying to help the defense through the offense. Yes Kansas is still a no-huddle team, but there is a noticeable difference from a season ago.
Taking Friday's game against another up and down opponent as an example, Southern Mississippi coach Larry Fedora talked about wanting to run 75 to 85 plays from scrimmage. Obviously his confidence in doing so probably had something to do with his belief that Kansas would either go up-tempo and create a longer game as well, or in his belief that they would be able to stop Kansas consistently.
At the end of the game however the Jayhawks controlled the time of possession, matched Southern Miss. in terms of first downs and protected the football to the tune of zero turnovers. The offensive playcalling consisted of 44 rushing attempts and just 26 passes. For their part the Jayhawks also managed to limit themselves to just three penalties throughout the course of the game. In general every one of these items on their own is considered a positive. Not a bad snapshot for a team that never really seemed to have much momentum.
The problem for Kansas is that they don't show the ability to make the big play. Keeping the clock on your side, managing the game and slowly but surely moving the chains are great abilities to have, but they have to be supported by an ability to put points on the board or a by a stout defense. Right now Kansas hasn't done either consistently. Average yards per play for Kansas on Friday, just 3.9. On the opposite side USM averaged 5.9.
All in all it's a team that has a long way to go. There are winnable games on the schedule this year, but putting together the whole package is going to be the challenge. There are areas that Kansas can build off of and players the staff can build around. It just isn't going to be at the flip of the switch. Coaching issues a year ago or not, this is a program that dropped seven straight to end 2009 with some of the top players in the schools history taking the field. Consistency on the field AFTER losing them, was never going to be easy.


text:
Image: Goal
The dialog-optimized AI Blenderbot 3 can research information on the Internet and integrate it into conversations. Meta publishes a web demo and models of the system to collaboratively improve its security.
Blenderbot 3 is Meta's version of Google's Lamda, the AI chat system that recently successfully faked consciousness to a Google engineer. Blenderbot has been in the works since around 2020, with the goal of developing a chatbot with personality, empathy, and extensive knowledge of the world.
The last major update dates back to 2021, when Meta added to Blenderbot 2 the ability to research information on the Internet from reliable sources to reduce its susceptibility to nonsensical statements. Meta also integrated a long-term memory that allows the bot to store relevant information about its answers or talking partners.
Blenderbot 3 is based on Meta's open-source language model
According to Meta, Blenderbot 3 scores 31 percent better dialog ratings than its predecessor in initial tests with human counterparts. The human testers rated Blenderbot 3 as twice as knowledgeable compared to the second version. In addition, the system is said to be factually incorrect in 47 percent fewer cases.
This progress is especially due to the upgrade of the language model: Blenderbot 3 is based on the 175 billion parameter model of Meta's open-source language transformer OPT and is, according to Meta, about 58 times larger than Blenderbot 2.
Compared to GPT-3, Blenderbot gives more up-to-date answers 82 percent of the time and more specific answers 76 percent of the time, according to Meta. However, Blenderbot's training data is more up-to-date than GPT-3's.
Open-source approach for greater security
With the release of the open source model and a web demo, Meta's primary goal is to drive data collection, discourse about, and advancement of secure conversational AI.
"Our research goal is to collect and release conversational feedback data that we and the broader AI research community can leverage over time to eventually find new ways for conversational AI systems to optimize both safety and engagingness for everyone who uses them," Meta writes.
Initial analysis of the web demo showed that 0.16 percent of Blenderbot 3 responses were flagged as unfriendly or inappropriate. The "ideal" 0 percent would likely require user-level customization, Meta's research team suspects. It would be a difficult balance between security and willingness to engage in dialogue – the bot might try to change the subject on sensitive topics, for example.
Long-term goal: Language as the main interface for computers and useful virtual assistants
Meta refers to Blenderbot 3 as a "significant advance" over chatbots currently available to the public. However, the system is "certainly not at a human level" and occasionally gives incorrect, inconsistent, off-topic, or otherwise unsatisfactory answers, the researchers said.
Meta's new chatbot has *opinions* about its CEO. https://t.co/hUkJxw3UTr pic.twitter.com/Hq4mZTY1DV
– Max Woolf (@minimaxir) August 5, 2022
Through interactions with the demo, Meta hopes to continue to improve the model and provide updated model snapshots to the AI community. The team's goal is to one day "AI-powered computers that everyone can chat with in genuinely helpful and interesting ways."
Head here for the Blenderbot 3 web demo, which is currently only available from the US The code, datasets, and smaller models are freely available from Parlai.
The most powerful 175-billion model, as with OPT, is only available to select individuals and institutions from the research community upon request.
Note: Links to online stores in articles can be so-called affiliate links. If you buy through this link, MIXED receives a commission from the provider. For you the price does not change.


text:
The Enugu House of Representatives caucus, led by Mr. Nnoli Nnaji representing Nkanu East/West Federal Constituency, has appealed to the Federal Government for swift action in reconstructing the collapsed bridge on the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway.
The News Agency of Nigeria reported that the caucus members made the call during their visit to the site of the bridge collapse at the New Artisan section of the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway on Wednesday in Enugu.
Furthermore, the House members also called on the Federal Government to address the deteriorating condition of roads in the South East region by declaring a state of emergency on infrastructure.
Other House members who accompanied the visit included Mr Stainless Nwodo, representing Igboetiti/Uzouwani Federal Constituency; Mr Chimaobi Atu, representing Enugu North and South; and Mr Obi Aguocha, representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency.
Nnaji, who chairs the House of Reps Committee on Ports and Harbours, expressed concerns about the hardships faced by the people and travellers in the state since the bridge collapse and emphasized that only urgent intervention from both the federal and state governments could address the situation.
He highlighted the bridge's significance as a crucial connection between Enugu and Rivers State, serving both the South-East and South-South regions.
Nnaji mentioned that he had already discussed the situation with the Chairman of the House Committee on Works adding that he was aware that Governor Peter Mbah had reached out to Senator Dave Umahi, the Minister of Works, regarding the incident.
He stressed the urgency and national importance of this development, noting that the caucus would bring it to the attention of the House when they reconvene on Tuesday.
What Nnaji said:
Nnaji highlighted the road's importance, particularly for travellers coming from Abuja, and pointed out that the incident occurred at the starting point of the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway.
He suggested that this could be an opportunity to conduct integrity tests on all older bridges and flyovers, considering that the road was built in the 1970s.
The lawmaker appealed to the state's residents, particularly those who use the road, for their understanding. He reassured them that they would utilize their influence to expedite the rapid repair of the bridge.
In his statement, Aguocha, representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency, explained that he had joined the delegation to provide support when the matter was discussed in the legislative assembly.
He underscored the significance of Enugu as the capital of Igbo land and pointed out that events in Enugu had a cascading effect on the entire region.
Additionally, he acknowledged that the bridge's collapse was causing considerable distress for Nigerians using the road.


text:
In daily fantasy football, like in most things, getting the fundamentals down is integral toward laying a foundation of knowledge to build from as you progress as a player. For DFS, that means attacking game types with a specific strategy based on the format. Classic is popular, but Showdown offers a potentially quicker return on results.
Showdown strategy
A Showdown contest is how you can play DraftKings for single NFL games. You will pick six players from a single game with your $50,000 salary cap roster. You must have one player from each team. Each lineup is made up of one captain and five flex spots. The captain spot gets his DraftKings points multiplied by 1.5x but you also pay 1.5x his flex salary.
Captain's spot
The captain's spot is the most important player due to his higher price and higher upside as part of a small overall lineup. Picking a captain is tough, as the very best players will also take a huge percentage of your salary cap due to their 1.5x price hike. The spot is important, but you also don't want to hamstring your overall lineup completely.
As with any cash game, you want to have strong floor plays across the board. That means you'll likely go after the two starting quarterbacks, as they are always going to have a strong floor no matter their skill level. That will likely limit your cash to spend elsewhere, so you'll need to find value and one place to do so is in kickers and defenses. Both are usually priced well for their average DK points compared to more volatile receivers and tight ends. Using kickers and defenses in Showdowns while paying up for high floor quarterbacks makes for a good base for cash games.
You want a strong DK points floor for any player you pick as captain, but for GPPs you'll need to add a bit more risk/reward to the slot. That means going with more volatile strong wide receivers is in play. You'll also want to stack with your captain to emphasize how you project/hope the game script will play out.
Game script
Trying to project how a single game plays out is a good way to figure who has the most upside in any given matchup. Is one team favored by a couple touchdowns and has an offense based on the running game? That sets up well for the favored teams running back and their DST while the underdog will likely need to throw to try to make up ground. Unfortunately, we aren't always correct in our game script projections, but using the odds and matchup stats to play the game out in your mind is useful.
Salary cap/differential
It is human nature to try maxing out your salary cap in a lineup. It makes sense that the closer you are to zeroing out your salary cap, the more total point upside you have, but in Showdown games there are so few viable lineup constructions that when people try to max their salary cap, you'll often have the same lineup as others. Instead, don't worry at all about closing in on the salary cap. Leaving big chunks of cash on the table in Showdown isn't generally a detriment.


text:
Thick-cut Canadian Bacon
Maple glazed breakfast sausage
Mini Avocado Toast with sesame seeds
Corn tortilla, with free-range scrambled egg, breakfast potatoes, aged cheddar, caramelized onions and spicy aioli
English muffin with free-range fried egg, melted provolone, bacon, tomato, lettuce and aioli
Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese "Lollipops"
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches with options of: Traditional
Mac n Cheese
Montreal Bagel's with smoked salmon, cream cheese, capers, red onions and lemon wedges pre-mounted sandwiches or build-your-own platter
Breakfast Frittata Squares with options of:
Spinach, cherry tomatoes, provolone cheese
Egg, Prociutto Cotto, provolone
In-house Atlantic salmon gravlax with raspberry dill dressing served on mini toast
Live Omelet Station with toppings
Mini Pancakes with options of:
Chocolate Chip
-Seasonal Berries
Buttermilk Waffle shooters with Canadian maple syrup
Açai bowl with Greek yogurt, seasonal berries, banana, chia seeds,maple-quinoa granola
French Toast traditional or Pannetone *(seasonal)
Mini yogurt parfaits with options of:
Homemade granola and fresh berries
Cayenne Pepper, chocolate and peaches
Mini viernnoiseries: Croissants, chocolatines and danishes
Fresh cut Fruit served as a platter, or individually portioned in sweet waffle cones
Fine Assorted Cheese Board with nuts and dried fruit
Sicilian Arancini's large or mini
Fried Chicken n Waffles with Maple Bourbon reduction
Homemade Assorted Focaccia's Fresh Lobster Rolls in Mini Buns *MP
Marinated cherry tomato, fresh basil and bocconcini skewers
Mini Quiches sundried tomato, spinach, mozzarella and smoked meat
Brera Porchetta with mini buns and giardiniera mayo mini sandwiches or build-your-own
Lasagna al Forno with fresh Ricotta and Sausage
Homemade Cavatelli wild mushroom or classic tomato
Mini Beef Sliders with Mac sauce, pickles, iceberg lettuce & aged cheddar
Mini Pulled Pork buns with house coleslaw and BBQ sauce
Choice of Sandwich
Pulled pork and provolone cheese served on
Chicken cutlet with spicy mayo, bacon on ciabatta
Prosciutto bocconcini with balsamic on ciabatta
Grilled chicken, avocado bocconcini on ciabatta
Porchetta with onion chips herb mayo on ciabatta
MTL smoked meat, coleslaw, pickles, mustard on rye
Choice of Wrap
Grilled chicken wrap with lettuce, tomato, bacon mayo and grilled chicken
Zucchini, eggplants, peppers, lettuce, tomato & goat cheese
Tuna, lettuce tomato, cheddar cheese and lemon mayo
Ham, Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato and honey mustard
Choice of Salad
Pasta salad with sliced ham and mixed
Couscous with dried raisins, nuts and citrus
dressing Red beets with fresh herbs, vinegar and oil
Mixed greens with savoury Italian dressing
Orzo with grilled vegetables
Chickpeas with chorizo and paprika
Creamy potato salad with bacon and fresh herbs in a
Quinoa, maple syrup, nuts, dried cranberry
Choice of Snack
Dessert of the day
Mini chocolate brownie
Assorted bundt cakes
Homemade granola bars
Bag of potato chips
Assorted seasonal fruit
Choice of Drink
Fruit Juice
Bottled Water(flat/ sparkling)
Soft Drink
Superfood Bowl
Mix of red and white quinoa, roasted sweet potato, broccoli, marinated beets, 1/2 hard boiled egg with a dill and creamy avocado dressing
Chicken Ceasar Salad
Romain lettuce, kale, Whole wheat pita chips, pancetta, parmigiana shaving, roasted chickpeas, grilled chicken with a classic caesar dressing
Sweet Chili Chicken Salad
Mixed greens, corn, black beans, shredded carrot, broccoli, sunflower seeds, fresh mint, roasted sweet chilli chicken with a honey dijon dressing
Green Curry Fusilli Salad
Fusilli pasta, red cabbage, shredded carrots, red bell pepper, green peas, red onion, ginger, Halal chicken thigh, pineapple, chili flakes, tomatoes, roasted almonds, arugula in a green curry dressing
Pesto Harissa Bowtie Pasta
Farfalle pasta, Halal chicken, with cherry tomatoes, mixed salad, red bell pepper, goat cheese, pecans, black olives, pesto, olive oil, salt in a creamy Harissa dressing
Orzo Pasta Salad
Orzo pasta, balsamic-marinated roasted chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, red pepper, feta, radishes, basil, green onions, salt, pepper
Cold Entrées
Baby red and yellow beet salad with grilled halloumi on fresh homemade bread with a
green pea hummus and za'atar
Burrata with mortadella, crushed pistachios, pomegranate and cucumber salsa
with chili-lime and fresh basil
Shredded cumin coriander beef, pita chips salsa cruda, fried chickpea
cucumber salad , yogurt tahini sauce
Gravlax salmon, meyer lemon cream cheese, caper berries, fried bagel bits (with poppy seeds) and pickled shallots
Halibut crudo with confit lemon , Jalapeño, radish and fresh mint
Tuna tartare with fried wontons and an edamame and pineapple salad
Pickled butternut squash carpaccio with Quebec goat cheese, toasted almond slices, blueberries & micro arugula
Beef carpaccio with avocado mousse, fried onion rings and mustard sauce
Hot Entrées
Braised beef cheekwith maple cinnamon celeriac purée
"Fritto misto" of shrimp, octopus and scallops with a kimchi dip
Crab cake with chipotle sauce, fried pickles and housemade slaw
Seared scallops with a za'atar crust, fresh fennel and Medjool dates
Individual eggplant parmigiana with buffalo mozzarella and fresh basil pesto
Confit duck with a pine nut & blueberry sauce, served with wild forraged mushrooms and braised balsamic red onions
Classic Panzanella with market heirloom tomatoes, fresh basil, torn mozzarella di bufala. Olive oil and lemon dressing
Romaine hearts with fingerling potatoes, radicchio, sliced radish, mi cuit quail egg & toasted sesame seeds. Mustard seed dressing
Baby arugula topped with walnuts, parmigiano shavings. Lemon dressing
Fennel with pepado cheese, white grapes, roasted beets, baked honey pinenuts and mint leaves . Honey dressing
Kale, sliced orange, feta, cucumber slices, pomegranate and toasted spicy chickpea. Saffron yogurt dressing
Roasted root ribboned vegetable salad, mixed greens, maple-candied walnuts, fresh pomegranate seeds. Honey aged balsamic dressing
Fattoush Salad with romaine lettuce, roma tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, mint, parlsey, radishes, red peppers topped with homemade Pita chips. Lime oil and sumac dressing
Orecchiette with a fresh tomato basil with homemade
salted ricotta
Cavatelli with a wild mushroom ragout and truffle oil
Fusilli with a walnut and fresh mint and basil pesto,
fried eggplants, orange rinds and spicy sausage
Casarecce with napoletano ragù (pancetta, veal,
prosciutto, pork and beef)
Gnocchi with a butternut squash and sage sauce
Lasagna Cacio e Pepe
Premium Pasta
Ricotta and beet ravioli in brown butter orange sauce
topped with roasted walnuts and fresh thyme
Beet & potato medallione with lemon and
poppyseed beurre blanc
Homemade ricotta lemon medaglioniwith a tarragon &
shallot vodka cream sauce
Cavatelli with lemon infused ricotta, fresh black pepper
and zucchini flowers *seasonal
Paccheri with lobster bisque, scallops & squid ragù
Gnocchi with a braised osso buco ragout
Paccheri with a porcini, basil and mascarpone sauce topped with toasted breadcrumbs
12-Hour braised beef short rib served with Canadian maple and cognac reduction
Beef Filet with spicy salsa verde
Veal Saltimbocca black cherry porto sauce stuffed with prosciutto sage and provolone
Veal Osso Buco topped with green olive jalapeño mint tapenade
Bavette with roasted cipollinis served with red wine sauce
Vealshort rib espresso honey glaze
1855 black angus filet mignon with chimichurri
Seared salmon with romesco sauce
Mediterranean seabass with tomato chutney
Branzinowith cashew, almond & fresh herb salsa
Miso-glazed black cod with miso sauce
Seared tuna served with a tarragon, roasted red pepper and almond pesto
Chilean seabass with pumpkin seed, kale and pecorino pesto
Baked halibut with a semolina and sage beurre blanche
Vegetarian | Vegan
Eggplant tower layered with ricotta and spinach served with fresh tomato and basil
Wild mushroom risotto with truffle oil
BBQ Tofu with Israeli couscous, grilled green onions & roasted cherry tomato salsa (V)
Tahini and sumac marinated cauliflower steak with tabouli salsa served with saffron potatoes and a green pea and cherry tomato stew (V)
Jerusalem artichoke & cauliflower stew with rosemary herb mash (V)
Lasagna with walnut ragu fresh basil and vegan mozzarella (V)
Pan seared herb crusted chicken breast with lemon creme fraiche
Chicken supreme cordon bleu capocollo friulano cheese and dijon cream sauce
Charred green onions fresh red chilli pepper
Baked broccoli with toasted sesame seeds
Mushrooms with harissa and garlic
Rapini withlemon zest and crispy onions
Japanese eggplant sesame seed honey tahini
Maple rainbow carrots topped with sunflower seeds
Saffron cauliflower with capers and parsley
Miso roasted sweet potatoes
Roasted mash potatoes with fresh herbs
Roasted fingerling potatoes with turmeric and green onions
Baked yellow beets with roasted red onions
Baked fennel with toasted breadcrumb
Roasted Parsnip with fresh rosemary
Squash and black beans with jalapenos
Tiramisu di Casa with coffee caramel
Red velvet "Joe Louis" with mascarpone and marshmello
Lemon cream shortcake with coulis
Nutella Mascarpone Mousse with cookie crumble and resh Berries
Chocolate Lava Cake with Vanilla Crème Anglaise
Cannoli Trio
Wedding Cake
Client's may provide their own wedding cake for the dessert course
- $2 cutting fee applies
Mini beef Wellington with a red wine reduction
Mini milk fed veal meatballs served with sweet tomato and basil compote
Rack of lamb with a Chermoula spice rub
Mini beef burger Mac sauce, pickle, iceberg lettuce & cheddar
Roast beef slider with cheesy cheddar sauce
Beef filet bite with ginger sauce and fresh chives
Grilled calamari with salsa verde
Mini clam chowder with oyster crackers
Fried Shrimp with homemadetartare-lemon sauce
Lobster banh-mi roll topped with pickled carrots and coriander
Scallop ceviche with orange zest, Lebanese cucumber and sumac
Grilled octopus with piri piri sauce
Tandoori shrimp withfresh coriander lime dip
Cajun style grilled shrimp with cajun aioli
Tuna Tartar with spicy sauce & fried sticky rice
Salmon tartar with cucumber, avocado, tobiko &
tempura crunch
Seared salmon with roe, ponzu& avocado
Seared cod marinated in honey & soy served with
miso garlic sauce
Tuna crudo with sweet chilli soy glaze topped with
whipped avocado and wasabi
Mini muffuletta with assorted Italian cold cuts and giardiniera on a homemade focaccia
Pork belly bite with honey garlic sauce & sesame seeds
Bbq baby back ribs with red onion chutney
Arancini with Pistachio cream, speck, mozzarella & fresh basil
Spicy Italian sausage in sugo
Fried chicken slider with a house pickle aioli and iceberg lettuce on brioche bun
Fried chicken n waffles with maple bourbon sauce
Crispy chicken bite with a mustard seed & pickle dip
Duck confit with a dried fruit jam, honey and goat cheese on puff pastry
Smoked paprika braised pulled chicken on blini topped
with house lime mint tzatziki sauce
Eggplant & feta in puff pastry with cucumber mint yogurt
Sicilian style arancini served with fresh tomato and basil
Cavatelli with wild mushroom ragout and truffle oil
Squash and gorgonzola mac n cheese
Gnocchi wth butternut squash and sage
Crispy tofu with a sweet chilli glaze, pineapple and green onion
Vegan Tempura Cauliflower wings in BBQ sauce
Japanese vegetarian dumplings served with ginger brown
sauce & chopped fresh green onion
Homemade orecchiette with fresh tomato sauce and basil
Cocktail Stations
Decorated with beautiful props and fresh greenery
Assorted imported and local, hard and soft cheeses
Assorted charcuteries & salumis
Assorted homemade focaccias
Dry and fresh fruit (seasonal availability)
Assorted grilled and marinated market vegetables
Olives and mini pickles
Assortment of breads and crackers
Mortadella, giardiniera and provolone on homemade
flat bread
Raw Bar
Fresh Oysters with Shucker (seasonal variety)
Giant Cocktail Shrimp with homemade cocktail sauce
Tartar a la minute (Tuna and Salmon)
Giant Scallops
Ceviche a la minute
Razor Clams
Crab Legs
Sea Urchin
Grilled Octopus
Nonna's Garden
Grilled and Marinated market vegetables
Caccio e peppe cauliflower, artichokes and broccoli
Toasted crostini with lemon ricotta and roasted red peppers
Large chopped fresh tomatoes with torn mozzarella di bufala
and fresh basil leaves
Focaccia with rosemary and fresh oregano
Nonna's vegetable strudel
Frittata with green peas, Pancetta & baby spinach
Fresh figs with Parmigano chunks
Roasted mushrooms with toasted fennel seeds and
fresh oregano
Sciachitata (Sicilian meat pie)
Live Pasta
Cavatelli with a braised beef ragout
Cavatelli mushroom ragout, fresh basil and truffle oil
Casarecce with napoletano ragù (pancetta, prosciutto,
veal, pork and beef)
Orecchiette tomato basil with homemade salted ricotta
Gnocchi with a butternut squash and sage sauce
Fusilli with sundried tomato and mozzarella di bufala
Carving *MP
Braised lamb shank with fresh herb and dijon sauce
Rack of lamb with Chermoula spice rub
Roasted beef with mustard seed sauce
Tomahawk steak with red wine sauce
Roasted BBQ chicken breast with bbq sauce
Branzino with cashew a almond and fresh herb salsa
King Salmon romesco sauce
Miso glazed black cod with miso sauce
Montreal smoked meat on rye bread with all trimmings
Traditional poutine with quebec cheese curds and gravy
Savoury Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Condiments: Sticky rice, Edamame, Avocado,
Mango, Coriander, Leafy greens, Green onion,
Carrot, Red cabbage, Sesame seeds, Radish
Cucumber, Spicy mayo, Ponzu
Proteins: Marinated Tuna, Marinated Salmon, Tofu
3 Greens (Mixed greens, Spinach, Arugula
2 Dressings (Balsamic, Lemon, Creamy)
2 Proteins (Turkey, Ham, Shrimp, Chicken, Tofu)
10 Condiments (Broccoli, Cauliflower, Mango,
Cherry tomato, Bell Pepper, Cucumber, Carrot, Cabbage, Radish, Edamame)
Pancho's Tacos
Baja- Cod, spicy aioli, Bahn-mi style slaw
Al Pastor-Shrimp, pineapple salsa, cilantro
Carne Asada- Mojo de ajo, bavette, brisket, salsa verde, jalapeno aioli
Vegetarian- Sweet potato, wild mushrooms, caramelized onions, salsa verde
Tuscan Crostini
Pane Toscano with whipped lemon ricotta heirloom tomatos, sherry vinegar fig jam topped with fresh basil (V)
Pane Toscano with sliced avocado sliced radish smoked salmon mousse pickled red onion dill cream fresh (V)
Pane Toscano with eggplant caviar spread, roasted wild mushroom and grated Parmigano (V)
Pane Toscano with cinnamon apricot compote
bresaola, fiori di latte fresh oregano
Bao Bun
Fried chicken with red cabbage slaw, sweet and spicy aioli, cilantro, radish
Braised beef with mashed avocado, cilantro, roasted green onions, toasted sesame seeds, fried shallot chips
Crispy Tofu with boston lettuce, maple-wasabi aioli, marinated mango, bok choy and chili sauce (V)
Sushi Bar
Menu options on request
+$3.00 for signature pieces
Late Night Stations
Fresh cut Fruits (seasonal variety)
Assorted Miniature Pastries
Assorted sweet grilled cheese
Homemade Mini Cannolis
S'more's Bar
Mini warm powdered Doughnuts
Cereal Bar
Deep Fried Oreos
Homemade Iced Cream Sandwiches
Montreal smoked meat sandwich with trimmings
Assorted Savoury Grilled Cheese
Cacio e Pepe in a Parmigiano wheel
Mini Mac Burgers
Brera Porchetta
Homemade Focaccias
Steamies with all accompaniments
Shish Taouk Sandwiches with trimmings
Szechwan Station
Traditional poutine
Traiteur Brera © 2022 All rights reserved.


text:
Moray's newest Councillor was only inspired into politics by the Scottish Independence Referendum where she placed a vote for the first time ever.
Days after the September referendum, 32-year-old mother of three Kirsty Reid was one of thousands motivated enough to join the SNP – and just three months later she finds herself thrown into office as the newly elected councillor for Elgin City North.
Kirsty won the seat that had been held by Labour's Barry Jarvis until his resignation to take up a post in teaching.
She took her place on the council with 55.1% of the votes – recording a majority of 157 over independent candidate Sandy Cooper.
Following her victory – achieved from a turnout of just 20.9% – the new councillor said: "I am absolutely delighted to have been elected to represent our community – and I am so grateful to local residents for placing their trust in me and to the Elgin SNP team for all their support.
"I cast my first ever vote in the independence referendum – and was one of the thousands of people who were inspired to get involved in politics for the first time and to join the SNP afterwards.
"As someone who was previously completely disengaged with politics, I hope I can use my experience to provide a fresh perspective in the council – and encourage more local people to get active in politics and to join the growing ranks of the SNP."
Scottish Labour candidate Craig Graham had to settle for third place. He said: "Naturally I am disappointed not to win but nevertheless proud of how we did!
"I'd like to thank everyone who voted for me – in particular I'd like to thank Sandy Keith, my election agent, John Divers and Councillor Sean Morton who have all been terrific with their efforts in helping me campaign.
"Congratulations to the SNP candidate Kirsty Reid in winning. Speaking to her at the polling stations yesterday gave me the impression that she will make a fine councillor and I hope she brings the change that the council needs."
The SNP win brings the number of councillors in their group to 10 and will have a further affect on the balance of power at Moray Council, where the ruling Independent and Tory group had already lost two of their number with the removal of Tory councillor Douglas Ross and resignation of his colleague James Allan.
With a total of 12 councillors the administration no longer enjoys an overall majority in the 26-member chamber.