Tongkat Ali Physta Improves Testosterone and Vitality in Aging Men

Dr. Kumar’s Take

This trial shows that a standardized Tongkat Ali extract called Physta can lift testosterone and improve measures of vitality in older men. Effects were most meaningful in men with lower starting levels. It is not a substitute for medical therapy in true hypogonadism, but it can be a useful tool alongside sleep, training, and nutrition.

Key Takeaways

✔ Physta increased total testosterone compared with placebo in aging men.
✔ Participants reported better vitality and sexual well being scores.
✔ Safety profile was favorable with few mild adverse events.
✔ Benefits were stronger in men with lower baseline testosterone.

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Nicotine Patches Fail to Slow Parkinson’s Progression: Lessons from the NIC-PD Trial

Dr. Kumar’s Take

For years, researchers have wondered if nicotine might protect the brain in Parkinson’s disease, since smokers are less likely to develop it. This large trial tested whether nicotine patches could slow disease progression in newly diagnosed patients. The results were disappointing: nicotine did not slow progression and may have worsened outcomes in some measures.

For patients and families, the key lesson is that nicotine, whether from patches, gums, or tobacco, is not a safe or effective treatment for Parkinson’s. Instead, focus should remain on proven therapies and healthy lifestyle strategies that support brain health.

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High-Dose Vitamin D Boluses in Preschoolers with Asthma: Safe but Not Sufficient

Dr. Kumar’s Take:

This small but detailed trial found that giving two large doses of vitamin D (100,000 IU) to preschoolers with asthma in the fall and winter raised their blood vitamin D levels quickly—but the effect didn’t last. After about 3.5 months, most kids’ levels dropped back down, meaning the boluses weren’t enough to keep levels optimal through the entire season. For sustained vitamin D sufficiency, a daily supplement is likely needed along with these boluses. On the upside, the study showed this high dose was safe, even in young children.

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