New research shows that Pycnogenol (an extract of the French maritime pine tree) may help offset kidney damage caused by high blood pressure. Known to damage capillaries in the kidneys, high blood pressure is a leading cause of kidney disease (a condition estimated to affect one in ten adults in the United States).

For the study, researchers recruited 55 people who had high blood pressure in addition to elevated amounts of protein in their urine (an indicator of impaired kidney function). For six months, participants were treated with either a combination of Pycnogenol and the blood pressure drug Ramipril, or with Ramipril alone. By the end of the treatment period, those taking Pycnogenol had nearly double the decrease in urinary protein levels when compared to study members who took only Ramipril. What's more, those taking Pycnogenol in conjunction with Ramipril had a greater drop in blood pressure, as well as a decrease in C-reactive protein (a marker of inflammation).

In past studies, Pycnogenol has been found to preserve eyesight in people with diabetes, as well as soothe menstrual cramps.

Goji berries may help shield the brain from Alzheimer's disease, according to a recent study. In test-tube experiments, scientists found that extracts of the antioxidant-rich fruit could defend against brain-cell damage induced by homocysteine (an amino acid shown to increase Alzheimer's risk when it occurs at elevated levels in the blood).

Previously published test-tube studies show that goji berry extract may help prevent the growth of cancer cells, keep blood sugar in check, and lower cholesterol levels. However, very few studies have looked at goji berries' effects on human health.

It's too soon to tell whether eating goji berries could help protect against homocysteine's harmful effects on the human brain. To reduce your Alzheimer's risk and preserve your brain health as you age, focus on following a balanced diet, getting plenty of exercise, staying mentally active, and maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

High levels of vitamin D may be linked to lower risk of colorectal cancer, the fourth most common cancer in the United States.

In a new study, researchers found that participants with the highest levels of vitamin D in their blood had up to a 40 percent reduced risk of colorectal cancer (compared to study members with the lowest vitamin D levels). The study included 1,248 people diagnosed with colorectal cancer, as well as 1,248 people who were free of the disease.

In previous research, scientists discovered that vitamin D may help prevent colon cancer by aiding the body in eliminating a highly toxic substance known as lithocholic acid. Since it's difficult to obtain your recommended daily intake of D solely through dietary sources, many medical experts recommend increasing your vitamin D levels by taking a dietary supplement.

Practicing Zen meditation may help thicken certain brain regions and lessen your sensitivity to pain, according to a new study.

For the study, researchers recruited 17 meditators and 18 non-meditators. To measure the participants' pain sensitivity, the researchers applied a heated plate to each individual's calf. In analyzing brain scans of the study members, they found that brain regions involved in regulating pain and emotion were significantly thicker in those who practiced meditation.

In past research, scientists have found that meditation could help improve pain management for people with coping with chronic pain. In particular, meditation has been found to lessen pain and reduce stress in people dealing with conditions like low back pain and fibromyalgia.

A number of other mind-body techniques (including tai chi, guided imagery, and yoga) may also benefit people struggling with chronic pain conditions.