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Tuesday, 16 August 2005

Premenopausal women aged between 25 and 45 are invited to participate in a study evaluating the effects of taking a nutrient supplement on everyday stress.

Supervised by Dr Jane Blake-Mortimer, a Senior Lecturer in the Psychology Department at the University of Adelaide, and conducted by PhD student Jodie Oliver, the purpose of the study is to examine the potential health benefits of taking a vitamin B formula combined with winter cherry, a herb with powerful antioxidant properties.

"We will be examining whether psychological stress decreases immunity, increases the incidence of infection and increases your risk of heart disease as indicated by examining factors such as cholesterol.

"It will also examine relationships between stress, immunity, infection and risk of heart disease (e.g. cholesterol) and the use of vitamins. It is believed that nutrient supplementation with vitamins may protect the body against infections," Dr Blake-Mortimer said.

Participants in the study will be asked to sign a consent form, complete a questionnaire to evaluate their level of stress and provide a small sample (30mls) of blood and a saliva sample.

A Registered Nurse will take the blood sample. Participants will receive a free blood analysis of their immune function and heart disease risk.

Participants impacted by the following will not be eligible:

• Physically unwell at the time of testing;
• Suffering from any of the following medical illnesses: heart disease, diabetes or cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, Addison's disease, Cushing's disease and lupus;
• Taking medication that suppresses the immune system;
• Pregnant or breast-feeding;
• Suffering from a psychotic disorder such as schizophrenia
• Currently taking warfarin; and
• Currently taking vitamin or herbal supplements.