Raising current vitamin D levels from 200 International Units (IU) to 2,000 IU could boost bone health amongst children and have long-term health benefits, says new research.

Supplementation with conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) reduced body fat mass, particularly in the legs and had positive effects on lean body mass, says a new clinical trial supported by Lipid Nutrition.

Daily supplements of the omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) may improve symptoms of eczema, according to the results of a new trial.

Measures of eczema improved by about 23 per cent over eight weeks after consuming the DHA supplements, and this was associated with significant reductions in levels of markers of inflammation, according to results published in the British Journal of Dermatology.

Supplements of coenzyme Q10 may boost physical performance and reduce feelings of tiredness associated with exercise, Japanese researchers have reported.

Both fatigue and recovery time were decreased as a result of 300 milligrams of CoQ10 for eight days, according to the double-blinded, placebo-controlled study with 17 healthy volunteers published in the journal Nutrition.

Butterbur’s alleged hay fever-fighting properties have been eyed with scepticism by some scientists over the last few years, but the largest trial conducted to date suggests that an extract from the herb is as effective at alleviating symptoms as a common anti-histamine.

Hayfever, also known as seasonal or intermittent allergic rhinitis, is estimated to affect around 20 percent of people in Western countries - although the true figure may be higher as in many sufferers it is not severe enough to lead them to consult a doctor.