Vitamin D really does reduce risk of breast cancer, experts confirm (EARTHtimes.org) Hamburg - A new study by German researchers has found conclusive evidence that vitamin D really does reduce the risk of breast cancer in women, confirming anecdotal evidence. The just-released findings of a long-term study involving 1,394 breast canc... [News Source]

Vitamin D may prevent diabetes (TVNZ) A new analysis of current research provides "the strongest evidence to date" that giving small children supplemental vitamin D will help prevent them from developing type 1 diabetes later on, according to the review's co-author. [News Source]

Your Health: Taking acid-suppressing drugs can deplete body of vitamins (Tri-State Neighbor) Q:After taking Aciphex to treat serious heartburn for four years, I developed a severe vitamin B-12 deficiency. I complained to my doctor about being extremely tired all the time. I needed to rest after just a simple task. [News Source]

Meijer Pharmacies to Offer Free Pre-Natal Vitamins (Progressive Grocer) Beginning this weekend, Meijer Inc. will offer free prenatal vitamins for soon-to-be moms in all of its 181 pharmacies. Women who are pregnant or are planning to have children can qualify for the program with a valid doctor's prescription. [News Source]

Keeping a clear head in the fight against tobacco. As the first anniversary of Victoria's smoking bans in bars and pubs draws near, it's time to catch our collective breath and reflect on how easily old cultural habits can wilt when a little political willpower is summoned. [News Source]

Parents take bigger role in autism research. A sold-out event was the first Stanford and Packard Children's Hospital gathering that brought together some of the world's leading researchers and experts on autism, and the parents who deal directly with the disorder. [News Source]

Women face increased cancer risk. Researchers found the risk to women carrying a gene which can lead to the disease has increased dramatically in the last 60 years. [News Source]

Everyone knows acid rain, but what about black water? A recent study shows there is a significant "green gap" between our newly eco-ized language and our understanding of what it all means. [News Source]

The great autism rip-off. In the absence of solutions, desperate parents are increasingly turning to potentially harmful types of alternative medicine in their search for a cure. [News Source]

Meijer pharmacies to begin offering free prenatal vitamins (WZZM 13 Grand Rapids) Starting today, Meijer stores will offer free prenatal vitamins to customers with prescriptions from their doctors. [News Source]

Meijer pharmacies to begin offering free prenatal vitamins (South Bend Tribune) GRAND RAPIDS (AP) — Meijer stores will begin offering free prenatal vitamins to customers with prescriptions from their doctors. The new program starts Sunday. [News Source]