14
October
2007
Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) is probably one of the most underrated underdogs in the vitamin world. There are no naturally occurring diseases due to a Vitamin B5 deficiency with the exception of a “burning feet syndrome” among World War II prisoners that responded positively to Vitamin B5 supplements. It is considered that overly processed food, where the vitamins may have been destroyed, was the culprit. Otherwise, Vitamin B5 deficiency is considered rare because of its abundance in the wide variety of the foods we eat.
Pantothenic Acid is involved in many necessary biochemical functions throughout the body, it is turning out to be a great antioxidant, and a natural libido enhancer. It appears that Vitamin B5 supplementation may actually be stimulating the immune system and has been used to reduce many adverse or toxic effects produced by antibiotics.
Assisted by other B Vitamins, Pantothenic Acid is converted in the body to a catalyst named Coenzyme A which is critical for energy production, nerve transmission, and formation of red blood cells. Now converted to Coenzyme A, Vitamin B5 becomes involved in the production of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) which is crucial for it is basically the energy source the body uses or burns.
Again in the form of Coenzyme A, Pantothenic Acid is vital for the synthesis of Acetlycholine (ACH) which is an important neurotransmitter. Acetlycholine (ACH) is the neurotransmitter that not only sends sexual messages to the brain but also appears to control the sexual activity within the brain for both men and women. When the ACH levels drop so does sexual activity. The ACH does not strictly function in the brain, it is also involved in the buildup towards orgasm and the contractions of the urethra and vagina during an orgasm. ACH levels can be safely enhanced by supplementing Choline at 1000 to 3000 mg and supplementing Vitamin B5 at 500 to 1500 mg about 30 minutes before sex.
Still in the form of Coenzyme A, Vitamin B5 is also needed for the formation of Hemoglobins, a red blood cell protein. In other Pantothenic Acid biochemical reactions a sulfur amino acid named Cysteine is produced which has shown to lower serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels. In addition, Vitamin B5 contributes to the manufacture of Vitamin D, necessary steroids and other adrenal gland hormones, bile, and the good cholesterol and fats.
As an antioxidant Pantothenic Acid has been used to diminish age or liver spots caused by free radicals. Alleviating pain from rheumatoid and osteoarthritis has proven effective when combined with Vitamin B3 (Niacin). Arthritis sufferers appear to have lower Vitamin B5 levels in general, and studies show that the pain severity increases with the lower Pantothenic Acid levels. With higher levels of Vitamin B5 the stiffness and pain may diminish instead of just being masked by prescription medications. Though not a cure all it has helped a healthy percentage.
Pantothenic Acid can be diminished or destroyed by food processing, grain milling, canning, and heat. Vitamin B5 works best with other B Vitamins, Vitamin C, and sulfur. Pantothenic Acid inhibitors include sulfa drugs, sleeping pills, estrogen, ferrous sulfate, methyl bromide, and alcohol.
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14
October
2007
Vitamin B3 (Niacin) is one of eight B Vitamins that are usually referred to as the B Vitamin Complex. Like most of the B Vitamins, Niacin has a tendency to be underrated as a minor supporting actor, but a highly important contributor none the less. This important role covers a myriad of crucial contributions throughout many of the different “systems” in the body.
Corn is the only grain that contains little Vitamin B3 and deficiencies usually only occurs in parts of the world where corn is a diet staple. The use of lime as a fertilizer, or preparing corn in or with water that contains lime, will offset this deficiency since the lime will release tryptophan which can be converted in the body to produce Niacin. In North America the major cause of Vitamin B3 deficiency is heavy alcohol use or abuse. Alcohol tends to block absorption of Niacin in the small intestine where absorption normally occurs.
The Required Daily Amount (RDA) of Niacin for adults is 14 to 16mg to stave off vitamin deficiency for the average person but the trend, backed by research and clinical tests, appear to point to an optimum health recommendation higher than the RDA and of course lower that levels that may cause toxicity. These optimum health levels for Vitamin B3 differ with each individual according to age, environment, stress, general health, and any medical conditions and should be discussed with a doctor or qualified medical professional before increasing Niacin consumption.
However, the benefits of increased Niacin intake, towards optimum health, have come to light with reports of Vitamin B3 playing an important role in removing toxic and harmful chemicals from the body.
Niacin, like all the B Vitamins play an important part in converting the food we eat into the energy we burn. It also has proven necessary and effective for reducing the bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and improving blood circulation.
It should be noted for those taking, or considering taking, a Niacin supplement that three popular forms exist and they differ when it comes to bad cholesterol (LDL). These are Nicotinic Acid, Niacinamide, and Inositol Hexaniacinat. Nicotinic Acid may lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and dilate blood vessels, and is being used to control high blood pressure, but is recommended to be used under a doctors, or qualified health professionals, supervision since it presents a higher risk of toxicity and undesirable side effects. Niacinamide which is found in most Vitamin B3 supplements is not considered effective in controlling bad cholesterol (LDL) but is reported to offer the other health benefits for recommended or optimum health. Inositol Hexaniacinat is considered the safest form available and the least risk of liver damage so substitute to this whenever possible
Vitamin B3 assists the body in producing sex and stress related hormones in the adrenal glands such as cortisone, thyroxin, insulin, estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. Another hormone named prostaglandin is increased in production by Niacin and used by the body for healing, blood clotting, and reducing inflammation. This may explain why, as a healer, detoxifier, and improving circulation, the combination of Vitamin B3 and Pantothenic Acid has been proving effective against Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis symptoms.
The build up of plaque in the blood vessels that can lead to blockage is known as Antherosclerosis and is being treated with higher doses of Niacin and has been credited to reduce recurrent complications of heart attack and the pain of walking commonly known as Intermittent Claudication. By improving circulation due to relaxing of the arteries the pain and numbness associated with the overreacting of blood vessels during cold weather may also be relieved as well as some of the ringing, humming, or buzzing in the ears associated with Tinnitus.
In combination with the other B Vitamins, Niacin has proved effective in preventing mood spikes right up to including depression by keeping the electrical system of the body functionally properly. With Trytophan, Niacin creates Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD), an enzyme necessary for the proper transference of signals throughout the brain. This is also why the B Vitamin complex is so important to combat age related brain illnesses and others including Vertigo and Migraine headaches. This includes the prevention of cloudy vision and damage to the eyes in the form of cataracts. Research has shown that those with high protein, and thus high Vitamin B, diets were significantly less likely to develop cataracts and that the B Vitamin complex provided protection against them.
Ongoing efforts to prevent and treat Diabetes with Niacin have resulted in clinical trials with mixed results. It appears that early detection and high Niacin doses helps to prevent certain complications and may even reverse development. Initial concerns that the increased Niacin intake would ultimately raise blood sugar levels, and did in clinical trials, the hemoglobin A1C measurements actually decreased over a 60 week period. The high doses of Vitamin B3 used in these studies ran as high as 3000mg per day and for this reason, at anywhere close to these levels, should be closely monitored by doctor or qualified health professional.
Niacin is readily available in many of the foods we eat and usually a Vitamin B3 deficiency is uncommon with the exception of alcohol abuse. Both meat and vegetables contain Niacin with the exception of eggs and milk but they contain Tryptophan which the body can convert to Nicotinic Acid.
Some interactions with certain prescription drugs can occur and if you are being treated with any of the following you should first talk with your doctor or qualified health care professional. Tetracycline absorption is hindered by Niacin as well as all of the B Vitamin complex and should be taken at different times. Blood pressure medications known as Alpha Blockers show a possibility of an increase in the medications unwanted side effects when taken with Vitamin B complex so it is recommended to be taken at different times of the day. The same goes for the cholesterol lowering medications colestipol, colesevelam, and cholestyramine since taken together may cause the medication to lose its effectiveness. With any diabetes medication it is recommended to supplement Niacin only under a doctors or medical supervision.
For optimum health recommendations or for treating a specific ailment it is usually not considered safe to exceed 1000mg day unless under a doctors supervision and schedule liver function tests every three months at this dosage.
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14
October
2007
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) is an organic compound found naturally in plants and animals and is an essential nutrient that in supplement form is easily recognizable by its yellow color, and its distinct and unpleasant taste. Vitamin B2 is a water soluble vitamin that is absorbed through the small intestine and since very little is stored in the body, unlike many other vitamins which are, it is important to replenish Riboflavin daily.
Riboflavin is involved in many vital functions within our bodies from the immune system, to the production of the energy we burn, to the nervous system. Important to maintaining a proper metabolism, Vitamin B2 assists in the production and oxidation of fatty acids and assists in the oxidation of Amino Acids and Glucose which are essentially the body’s gas tank. From the carbohydrates we consume, Vitamin B2 converts this to Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) a compound necessary to store energy in the muscles.
Riboflavin is directly involved in the production of the oxygen carrying red blood cells and antibodies which fight infection and help heal damaged tissue. It assists in the absorption and activation of Iron, Vitamins B1, B3, B6, and Folic Acid, and helps maintain the mucus membranes in combination with Vitamin A.
Skin, the nervous system, the eyes, and heart health all rely on Vitamin B2 as does the production of hormones by the adrenal glands which also play a role in metabolism. Riboflavin and the other B vitamins protect the nervous system allowing this “wiring” to pass signals, almost like a current, quickly and without delay or short circuits. It also appears to level out “spikes” or surges in the nervous system. This may be why Vitamin B2 is being used in treating many nervous system conditions from anxiety, stress, and fatigue, to Epilepsy, Alzheimer’s, and Multiple Sclerosis.
Vitamin B2 appears to assist or enhance antioxidants that involve the formation of cataracts, a progressive clouding of the eye’s lens, that particularly affect the elderly. Riboflavin appears effective in slowing or preventing this condition and is highly recommended by Ophthalmologists at 25mg daily for limiting or preventing this damage caused by oxygen free radicals.
With 26 million Americans suffering from Migraine headaches, high doses of Vitamin B2 has shown to reduce the frequency and severity of this debilitating affliction by nearly 40%. This reduction occurred in about a third of those suffering from Migraines and it is speculated that boosting the energy levels in brain provides less stress on the temporal artery where Migraines reportedly originate. Many prescription drugs are available including the controversial Botox injection but compared to the price Riboflavin is cheaper by far and with prevention being the best medicine then treatment with Vitamin B2 wins hands down. Studies indicate that 400mg of Riboflavin daily began working after one month but after three months is when it became the most effective. Though mega-dosing in general is not recommended for most vitamin or mineral supplements these larger doses of Vitamin B2 are considered safe since any excess is usually excreted easily in urine. Unabsorbed Riboflavin is what is normally noticed in bright yellow urine when supplementing Vitamin B2 or most Vitamin B formulas or combinations.
Vitamin B2 supplementation has been reported to help treat Rosacea and other skin problems due to Riboflavin deficiencies. Many oral treatments are claimed to contain Riboflavin or Vitamin E, or both. A good daily regimen of Riboflavin at 50mg daily may improve the skins mucus secretions to the point of clearing up Rosacea associated pustules and assist in repelling the higher number of skin mites in the hair follicles that many Rosacea sufferers are afflicted with.
For the most part Vitamin B2 deficiency is fairly rare since a wide variety of the food groups contain enough Riboflavin to sustain the average person from deficiency. With 1.7mg of Riboflavin being considered enough to stave off deficiency in the average adult it appears that levels for optimum health, especially with toxic levels being almost nonexistent, can safely go much higher especially for possible prevention of many medical conditions. The elderly, heavy alcohol users, women who use oral contraceptives, those who are lactose intolerant, during pregnancy, and strict vegetarians, is where many Vitamin B2 deficiencies can and do occur.
Pregnant women are at risk of developing a potentially life threatening disease known as preeclampsia which affects close to 1 in 10 first child pregnancies with complications of high blood pressure and swelling in the legs. Untreated, this can develop into eclampsia which can cause deadly seizures prior to, or during the first week after delivery. Studies report that Flavin Adenine Dinucleotide (FADs) levels, a coenzyme produced from Riboflavin, were significantly lower in pregnant women who developed preeclampsia. During this study it was also noted that 25% of the women were Vitamin B2 deficient at their first antenatal visit and 50% were deficient during the final weeks of pregnancy. If pregnant, talk to your doctor or qualified health professional before supplementing Riboflavin.
Heavy alcohol drinkers are at risk due to lack of Vitamin B2 absorption that alcohol blocks while in the small intestine. Strict vegetarians who do not consume milk, eggs, butter, or fish, as well as those who are lactose intolerant are also at risk. These individuals must consume much more leafy greens and other vegetables to receive an adequate supply of Riboflavin.
Many of the symptoms of Riboflavin deficiency include photosensitivity and other visual problems or burning tearing and itching eyes, cracking of the lips at the corners of the mouth, tongue inflammation, flaking of the skin around the ears, eyebrows, groin, and nose, hair loss, insomnia, and delayed mental response. But remember, many of these symptoms may indicate other medical conditions so it is highly recommended that you see a doctor or other qualified medical professional before making a self diagnosis.
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14
October
2007
Who would have thought that such an important vitamin was originally discovered in the thin skin of rice husks. The importance of Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, covers a wide range of functions from a complex enzyme critical in breaking down glucose, fats, and carbohydrates, and turning them into energy, to something as mildly beneficial as repelling mosquitoes.
The primary role of Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, is usually considered to be the conversion, or generation, of energy from carbohydrates. And though not stored in large amounts, or in very low quantities of the “raw” form, Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, is found in tissues considered metabolically active. These include the heart, kidneys, nervous system, and the liver which is said to store the largest quantity at 80%, and in this form Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, is bound to an enzyme. In its coenzyme form Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, becomes biologically active and labeled TPP for Thiamine Pyrophosphate. It is generally considered that around 80% of the Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, present in the body is in this TPP form.
Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, whether in supplement form as a phosphate, or from most of the green plants we eat, is absorbed in the small intestine. The majority of “raw” and coenzyme bound (TPP) Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, travels to the liver with some of the TPP Vitamin B1 being stored in the heart or kidneys. In the liver further metabolism occurs with the majority being used to convert the carbohydrates to energy. The amount of Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, in TPP form needed for this conversion is directly related to the amount of carbohydrates consumed. Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, in TPP form is also necessary for production of DNA. In its biological form Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, has a relatively short life of around 10 to 15 days. If not used it is easily excreted, as is any unabsorbed Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, in urine. Small amounts appear in perspiration and may account for the claim of repelling mosquitoes.
In addition to the use of Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, in TPP form for energy conversion, a couple other important uses of Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, exist in nervous system in the form of Thiamine Monophosphate TMP and Thiamine Triphosphate TTP. These variations of Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, play a part in the proper regulation of the ion channel which is best described as part of our nervous system wiring.
Of all the vitamins, Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, and Vitamin B12, are the only two vitamins that are determined to cause a neurological disease when deficiencies occur. Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, deficiency can occur in as little as 3 weeks to recognize the first symptoms.
Additional benefits of Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, include resisting motion sickness, and during the treatment of lead toxicity. A recent study is suggesting that a different form of Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, known as Benfotiamine is protecting blood vessel walls from damage done by the buildup of sugar byproducts in diabetics. This would affect the eyes, kidneys, and possibly help prevent heart attacks in diabetics. Benfotiamine is currently available in Germany where it is used in treating nerve damage from diabetes.
Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, deficiency can occur due to many different and common reasons. Most prevalent in society today is our diet. Sweets, soft drinks, and processed food, as well as crash dieting and alcohol abuse either block absorption or deplete Vitamin B1 stores in the body. Alcohol can be exceptionally problematic since not only does it block the absorption in the small intestine but injures the small intestine also causing poor absorption for Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, and many vitamins and minerals until it heals. Coffee, tea, and cigarette smoke also contribute to Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, deficiency. Some natural causes such as liver dysfunction, dialysis, or long term use of intravenous nutrients can also contribute to deficiency.
Early warning signs of possible Vitamin B1 deficiency are as follows, but, should not be self-diagnosed since many other afflictions can include the same symptoms. A visit to a qualified health professional is recommended for proper diagnosis. Since a Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, deficiency can affect the nervous system, many of the early deficiency symptoms may be considered emotional, for instance, irritability, noise sensitivity, sleep disorders, loss of appetite, apathy, depression, and inability to concentrate. Physical signs of Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, deficiency may include fatigue, indigestion, abdominal discomfort, nausea, constipation, and low blood pressure.
?Though usually rare due to it being readily passed through the body, toxicity symptoms of Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, are reported to include allergies, altered thyroid and insulin production, skin inflammations, muscle tremors, and fluid accumulation. Vitamin B1 is also sensitive to heat and breaks down quickly, fevers can deplete the body quickly and any benefits of green vegetables can be easily destroyed by overcooking. However, cooking greens in a microwave appears to lessen the loss of Vitamin B1 substantially.
?The history of Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, actually begins with the search for a cure for a disease known as Beri-beri. During the 1800s, mostly in Asian countries where polished rice was a common staple, the lack of Vitamin B1 caused a loss of appetite creating a wasting disease commonly named Beri-beri. The removal of rice husks, prior to cooking, milling, or processing was called polished rice. Had anyone known that by merely boiling the rice prior to removing the husks they would have cooked the Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, into the white part of the rice known as rice endosperm. At that time most research was focused on microorganisms as a cause for Beri-beri infections.
During the mid 1880s is when the first insights into the prevention of Beri-beri came to light. Dr. K. Takaki was the Director General from the Japanese Navel Medical Services at the time and investigating the high incidence of Japanese sailors afflicted with Beri-beri. Dr. Takaki apparently linked the correlation between Beri-beri and the high, polished rice diet. After decreasing the rations of rice and replacing it with Vitamin B1 rich vegetables the incidence of Beri-beri dropped to zero.
Around the same time a Dutch officer stationed in Java by the name of Dr. Christian Eijkman made the same Vitamin B1 connection by experimenting with rice eating chickens that also displayed Beri-beri. Dr. Eijkman teamed up with a colleague, Dr. Germit Grijins but their research appeared to have split directions with Eijkman heading towards a anti Beri-beri serum while Dr. Grijins findings, much like Dr. Takaki, that a deficiency from the food itself was occurring.
It wasn?t until 1926 that Vitamin B1 was actually synthesized from rice bran by two Dutch chemists Dr. B. Jansen and Dr. W. Donath. Apparently though, their published formula was incorrect causing several years of confusion before being republished correctly by Dr. Robert Williams who had followed and expanded on the work of Eijkman and Grijins.
?Converted rice as we know it today, and if cooked carefully, and along with many other foods are rich in Vitamin B1, or Thiamine. Multi-vitamins usually contain the average minimum daily requirement of Vitamin B1 but for certain individuals whose lifestyles may hinder or deplete Vitamin B1 a supplement may be in order. But check with your medical professional first.
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14
October
2007
Diets rich in Vitamin A for medicinal use were first recorded as far back as 3,500 years ago. The ancient Chinese used a Vitamin A rich combination; it should be labeled more of a concoction, to cure night-blindness. Somewhat later, the famous ancient Greek physician Hippocrates prescribed Vitamin A rich liver for the same ailment. Night-blindness was a common ailment and a Vitamin A deficiency. Modern science did not recognize or distinguish Vitamin A as a necessary nutrient until 1913 when a University of Wisconsin biochemist named Elmer V. McCollum and associates isolated and identified the essential Vitamin A. The biochemist McCollum used nutritional research on rats and used butterfat and cod liver oil during the discovery of Vitamin A. It wasn’t until 1947 before Vitamin A became available in a synthesized form.
Primarily, we get our Vitamin A from two sources, plants and animals, and the difference is important because the possibility of Vitamin A toxicity confuses many people. From meat and fish, including liver and fish oil, we get Vitamin A in a compound form called Retinol. Retinol supplies Vitamin A to the body in a certain molecular structure that is much more potent than the Vitamin A supplied by plants. This is not meant to scare anybody away from ingesting Vitamin A rich fish, fish oil, meat or liver. In moderation, Vitamin A in Retinol form is a very good, necessary, and important to the body, but too much can cause problems. If you are ingesting Vitamin A from a Retinol rich diet higher than normal of fish, fish oil, meat, and liver then you may be at risk for Vitamin A toxicity. In some respects it is like comparing Retinol to aviation fuel, adding aviation fuel to your cars gas tank, one gallon added to twenty, will perk your car up due to the higher octane and cleaner properties, but running nothing but aviation fuel will definitely cause major problems. Or, in some regards too much Retinol could be compared to raw, ready to go Vitamin A flooding the system when your body only needs half of what is there and can’t rid itself of the excess. Excessive Vitamin A from Retinol may include symptoms in adults such as nausea, the coarsening and loss of hair, dry and scaling skin, bone pain, fatigue or drowsiness, blurred vision, and headaches. In children symptoms include slow growth, enlargement of the liver, and nervous irritability. Now before you jump up and check the label of your Vitamin A supplement, don’t worry. Vitamin A supplements are restricted to the plant version, are limited to 25,000 International Units (750 RE), and, which has a different molecular structure in regards to toxicity.
Vitamin A is also available from carotenoids, the most popular, beneficial, and recognized being Beta carotene from over 600 carotenoids known and only a few having any significance to our health. It is also the easiest to internally convert to Vitamin A. Beta carotene is actually two Vitamin A molecules linked together. In this structure, unlike Retinol, Vitamin A is biologically inactive, therefore, non-toxic regardless of the dosage. When the body needs Vitamin A then it splits the carotene molecules to make them biologically active. The conversion from inactive to active occurs in the intestinal wall and the liver. It is estimated that only and approximately 10% of the carotene is converted to Vitamin A at any given time. It is reported that the liver can store up to two years worth of Vitamin A under normal use, but we use more than we think, and having a little extra floating around has proven to be very beneficial. Inactive Vitamin A can also build up in our system causing a yellowish or orange tint to the skin color and not detrimental. A Jaundiced skin color may indicate excessive Beta carotene intake but will not turn the whites of the eyes yellow. If the whites of the eyes become yellow then see a physician immediately, yellow eyes indicates a possible serious liver condition but would not be caused by Beta-carotene. Sustained daily doses of 500,000 IU (16,650 RE) of Beta carotene daily would be needed to create Vitamin A toxicity, whereas 15,000 IU (500 RE) of Retinol daily creates toxic Vitamin A effects. Vitamin A was originally measured in International Units (IU) but in 1974 the United States began using a measurement named Retinol Equivalents (RU).
Vitamin A is an essential nutrient for proper nutrition, this fat soluble vitamin is vital for growth and repair of soft bodily tissues and maintaining healthy skin. The mucus membranes and epithelial cells that line any and all bodily openings are Vitamin A dependant for resiliency and infection prevention or fighting infections. Besides the epithelial linings it appears and is reported that Vitamin A in Beta carotene form helps to protect other linings from the onset of cancers. The prostate, stomach, esophagus, larynx, bladder, colon, and rectum all appear to benefit from increased cancer protection with Vitamin A in Beta carotene form. High dosages of Vitamin A from Beta carotene are claimed to have substantially reduced the destruction of preferred cells when use of immunosuppressive treatments such as chemo and radiation is used in cancer patients. Unsure and still debated and speculated, the experts do not know if it is the Vitamin A or Beta carotene alone or if other substances found in fruits and vegetables that are high in Vitamin A and or Beta carotene are responsible for these benefits.
Besides the anti-oxidant benefits of Vitamin A in Beta carotene form, Vitamin A in Retinol or Beta carotene form, stimulates the secretion of gastric juices necessary for proper digestion of proteins and assists in the building of strong bones and teeth. Vitamin A is said to mobilize Iron from storage into new or developing red blood cells which is needed for the oxygen carrying hemoglobin. The combination of Vitamin A and Iron also appears to reduce anemia faster and more effectively than Iron or Vitamin A alone. Though unclear why exactly, a Zinc deficiency is thought to interfere with Vitamin A metabolising. It is believed that the Zinc deficiency results in decreased production of a Retinol binding protein which in turn slows or stops the transport of Retinol to the retina tissues. With the last two paragraphs in mind, it suggests that the proper balance of all vitamins, not just Vitamin A or a chosen few, and, that supplements alone are not the answer. A balanced daily diet is still important, then tailor your supplements, as needed from there.
For good vision health and night vision in particular Vitamin A in Retinol form is needed. For vegetarians it is reported that eating beans high in protein while at the same time as vegetables high in Beta carotene can produce the proper protein enzyme to form Retinol. The availability of Vitamin A ensures the production of Retinol and Rhodopsin, the color purple for night and low light vision. Basically, Retinol is changed to Rhodospin which can detect small amounts of light. In this form, combined with some other events, the electrical signal is conveyed to the brain.
Lifestyles, environmental stressors, health issues, and even other vitamins can detract from the benefits of Vitamin A. These detractors, for various reasons can restrict absorption by binding to Vitamin A, deplete the body of it, or restrict absorption, they are commonly known as inhibitors and Vitamin A does have a few. Strenuous physical exercise during digestion can inhibit absorption of Vitamin A, other inhibitors include polyunsaturated fats, mineral oil and laxatives, steroids, PCBs, nitrites, sodium benzoate, and diarrhea, are the most common. Diabetics should not increase their Beta carotene intake due to the fact that they are unable to convert the molecules to Vitamin A, it could cause more harm than good. Vitamins that compliment or interact in a beneficial way are usually called helpers, Vitamin A helpers include Vitamin B, C, D, and E, Calcium, phosphorus, and Zinc.
If an individual decides they are interested in increasing their Vitamin A intake through supplements it is highly recommended they examine their diet, lifestyles, and any health issues and talk with their doctor first. Small or moderate increases of Vitamin A are usually considered best and available in the common Beta carotene form. Avoid mega-dosing unless supervised by a knowledgeable medical professional. Vitamin A has many necessary benefits the body should not do without.
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14
October
2007
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands that sit on top of each kidney. Synthesized from cholesterol it is considered to be a close chemical relation of testosterone and estrogen that is produced by the body starting in pre- pubescence and usually peaking during our twenties. During this peak DHEA is the most prominent hormone circulating in our bodies but then it slowly begins to decline to around 10% in a 70 year old male. For the most part men have a tendency to carry a higher DHEA level than women. .
Hormones are much like chemical messengers that can trigger or stop various activities in other tissues or organs. DHEA can be easily converted into testosterone or estrogen and was first thought to be a left over byproduct during the production of other hormones. .
Originally, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was not sure whether to allow DHEA on the market because not enough was known about the product. DHEA was marketed as a weight loss supplement available only by prescription then taken off the market. During the mid 90?s DHEA was reclassified as a dietary supplement thus being available for sale over the counter. The FDA?s concern centered around the possible side effects and unknown interactions within the body. .
Studies indicate that DHEA has a number of possibly beneficial interactions including the prevention or delay of cancer, hardening of the arteries, diabetes, and a decrease in the possibility of heart disease of 15% of that particular study group. Increases in lean body mass and immune system markers were also noted. Of these studies the age group of 50 to 65 year olds appeared to have a more immediate benefit with a drop in fat body mass and an increase in chemical markers indicating an immune system boost. Also a relaxed feeling of well being was noted that coincides with another study that successfully treated depression with DHEA. In these studies DHEA of the 50 to 65 year olds there was not a claim of increased libido as some advertisements claim, these claims attempt to connect the increase of testosterone with sex drive and may well show improvement in younger adults. Other benefits noted besides the loss of body fat was an increase in skin quality, a decrease in allergy reactions, reducing blood pressure, and slightly better regulation of blood sugars. Overall, DHEA should not be considered a fountain of youth discovery but has some indications of slowing the aging process. .
Currently, trials are in progress testing DHEA in its ability to boost the immune system and how it maintains the mental function in the 50 to 65 year old age group since an increase in mental clarity has been claimed. Of course with every thing good there are always certain risks. Because DHEA can be converted into testosterone it can cause an increase in facial and body hair in women and can trigger a stop in menstruation. It has been shown to decrease the good cholesterol HDL in women also. Pregnant or lactating women should not use DHEA. In men, an increased level in DHEA stimulated testosterone may trigger the growth of a small prostrate tumor that would normally remain dormant and may also cause an enlarged prostrate making urination difficult. Consulting a doctor or qualified medical professional is recommended especially if under the age of 40. .
With the increase in testosterone bodybuilders and athletes can show huge gains in muscle mass but this is where the FDA has some issues with DHEA. The potential for short and long term misuse, the nearly instantaneous advantage of muscle gains can be overwhelming and can easily result in disregarding common sense, could lead to unknown and disastrous problems later on. If DHEA is planned to be used by a bodybuilder or athlete, especially if under the age of 40, then supervision by a doctor or qualified health professional is highly recommended since higher levels of testosterone are already present, especially in those in their twenties. .
As a diet supplement DHEA has proven effective since it is a thermogenic substance causing a person to burn fat for energy rather than hold it in storage. DHEA also blocks an enzyme which is needed to produce fat tissue and stimulates another hormone function which sends signals indicating you are full and it is time to stop eating. Because of the testosterone increase and the undesirable effects on women DHEA is considered more male friendly than female. A simple and easy saliva test is available to monitor and regulate DHEA levels.
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14
October
2007
Vitamins and Minerals for Healing and Prevention
Healing and prevention associated with vitamins and minerals.
Water-Soluble Vitamins
Vitamin B1 (thiamin)
Beriberi treatment and prevention
Nerve tonic
Treatment metabolism
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)
Skin diseases
Migraine
Conjunctivitis (red eye)
Vitamin B3 (nicotinic acid)
High cholesterol
Mental illness/schizophrenia
Pellagra (prevention and treatment)
Heart disease
Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid)
Graying of hair
Healing of wounds
Stress
Relief of itching/soothing of wounds
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)
Depression due to use of oral contraceptives
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Morning sickness
Premenstrual syndrome
Reduce breast milk
Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin)
Pernicious anemia
Confusion/memory loss in elderly
Tiredness
Folic Acid
Cervical cell changes and anemia resulting from a low folic acid level from use of oral contraceptives
Megaloblastic anemia
Stroke and heart disease
Birth defects such as spina bifida
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
Alzheimer’s disease
Scurvy
Wound healing
Cold symptoms
Preventing the common cold
Preventing infection
Herpes cold sores
Genital herpes
Periodontal disease
High cholesterol
Cancer
Mental illness
Alcoholism
Drug abuse
Heart disease
Rectal polyps
Bedsores
Cataracts
Alzheimer’s disease
Beta carotene
Heart Disease
Cancer
Cataracts
Fat-Soluble Vitamins
Vitamin A (and retinoic acid)
Acne
Night blindness
Psoriasis
Vitamin D
Osteomalacia (adult rickets)
Fanconi’s syndrome
Psoriasis
Malfunctioning parathyroid gland
Rickets
Vitamin E
Cancer
Cystic breast disease
Nighttime leg cramps
Healing of wounds
Protection of the body’s cells from the effects of oxidation
Sexual function
Heart disease
Athletic performance
Scars
Intermittent severe leg muscle pains
Cardiac problems due to chemotherapy
Hemolytic anemia due to G6PD deficiency
Glutathione synthetase deficiency
Environmental hazards such as lead poisoning
Cancer
Cataracts
Immunity
Alzheimer’s disease
Vitamin K
Antidote to oral anticoagulants
Bleeding prevention in newborns
Other Vitamins
Choline
Alzheimer?s disease
Liver damage due to alcoholism
High Cholesterol
Arteriosclerosis
Stroke
Cirrhosis
Dizziness
Heart Disease
Laetrile (vitamin B17)
Cancer
Essential fatty acids (vitamin F)
Intravenous feeding
Bioflavonoids (vitamin P)
Bleeding
Cold symptoms
Prevention of colds
Essential Minerals
Calcium
Rickets
Osteomalacia
High blood pressure
PMS
Postmenopausal osteoporosis
Phosphorous
Laxative
Magnesium
Laxative
Antacid
Migraine headache
Seizures due to toxemia of pregnancy
Iodine
Underactive thyroid and goiter
Iron
Iron-deficiency anemia
Potassium
Reduce blood pressure
Zinc
Healing of burns
Arthritis
Cancer
Common cold/symptoms
Healing of wounds and broken bones
Important Trace Minerals
Copper
Arthritis
Heart disease
Manganese
Prevention of aging
Fluoride
Postmenopausal osteoporosis
Dental cavities
Chromium
Weight loss
Type II diabetes
Selenium
Prevention of aging
Cancer
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14
October
2007
Fish oil supplement is a dietary supplement containing oil extracted from the flesh of cold-water fish such as mackerel, albacore tuna, sardines, herring, salmon, black cod. Fish oil supplements contain eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are converted into the beneficial series of prostaglandin. Considered for their heart-friendly actions, fish oils supplements offer high concentrations of polyunsaturated fats that have a number of healing powers. We are a leading supplier of vitamins, minerals and diet supplement products. We take great pleasure in offering top class fish oil supplements at an affordable price.
Researchers have been constantly discovering the new health benefits of fish oil supplement. Besides their notable properties as heart-healing substances, fish oil supplements can ease menstrual pains and heavy bleeding of endometriosis. Healthcare experts even attribute the rising depression levels to the inadequate intake of fish. Whether you are suffering from cardiovascular problems, high blood pressure, high triglycerides or rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, diabetes or Crohn’s disease, you can find a remedy by using fish oil supplements.
Fish oil supplements can also be used to treat asthma, bipolar disorder, breast-feeding support, osteoporosis, eczema, immune function, pregnancy and postpartum support, psoriasis, cardiac arrhythmia, cystic fibrosis (EPA), depression, kidney problems, schizophrenia etc. Since maintaining a proper fish-rich diet is not possible for everyone, fish oil supplements come handy in providing the necessary nutrients to the body. What’s more, the highly nutrient-rich fish oil supplements we offer are available at an attractive price as well. Do feel free to contact us for your fish oil supplement needs today and you will be glad for having come to us.
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14
October
2007
Antioxidant vitamins such as E, C and beta-carotene have proven health-promoting properties. Researchers have found that antioxidant vitamins reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. A significant percent of the US population take antioxidant vitamins to maintain their health. If you are searching for top class antioxidant vitamins that do not cost you a fortune, you have come to the right place on the net. We are a leading supplier of vitamins, minerals and diet supplements. You can choose from our impressive collection of antioxidant vitamins that help you achieve desired health benefits. We not only offer you the best products at an attractive price but also help you stay educated by answering any of the queries you may have on antioxidant vitamins.
Antioxidants are natural substances found in vitamins, minerals and other compounds in foods. Antioxidants vitamins come handy in preventing disease by fighting free radicals, substances that harm the body when left unchecked. Free radicals are formed by normal bodily processes such as breathing, exposure to sunlight, and environmental contaminants such as cigarette smoke, pollution. Even alcohol, stress and diet affect the level of free-radical development in the body. Without adequate antioxidant intake, these free radicals travel throughout the body, damaging cells. You can find antioxidant vitamins in green leafy vegetables, legumes, nuts, papaya, oatmeal, soybeans, sweet potatoes, wheat and wheat germ, dark orange, red and dark green vegetables and fruits. However, to get a small quantity of vitamins, you have to consume a large quantity of these fruits and vegetables. This is where our antioxidant vitamin products can help you.
Available in various consumable forms, antioxidants vitamins ward off the potential maladies and safeguard your health. Studies show that antioxidant vitamins offer protect against and cure diseases. Research shows that these vitamins even have the power to prevent diseases such as cancer, coronary heart disease and cataracts. Antioxidant vitamins even improve immune system function and delay some of the effects of aging. We offer excellent antioxidant vitamins including Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, zinc grape seed extract, and green tea extract, selenium, ginkgo biloba etc. Take the first step towards a healthy life and contact us for quality antioxidant vitamins that make a positive difference to you. Count on us for the best you can get and we live up to your expectations on all fronts.
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14
October
2007
An Antiaging supplement reduces ageing of skin, wrinkles and sagging and improves the suppleness and elasticity of the skin. A youthful outward appearance is possible with nutrition from with in. This is where antiaging supplements help you. Discover how you can regain the pristine looks and prance back to life with our top class antiaging supplements. Now you don’t have to spend a huge fortune to buy quality anti-aging supplemental products. Neither can you need to drive around searching for the products. We offer a convenient way where you can shop for anti-aging supplements with just a few clicks of your mouse. What’s more, we even ensure that you save not just your time and energy but money as well.
Though there are a number of theories on aging, oxidation reactions and sub-optimal hormone levels can be cited as the two basic theories that are commonly accepted with aging. An oxidation reaction takes place when life essential oxygen combusts and produces by-products referred to as oxygen free radicals. Over a period of time, these free radicals damage builds in the body and cause aging. The sub-optimal hormone theory, as the name suggests, holds that sub-optimal hormone levels cause aging. As we grow older, hormones such as human growth hormone, androstenedione testosterone, melatonin, DHEA, estrogen, and progesterone decline.
No matter what the aging problem, we have antiaging supplements that restore the luster of your skin and hormone levels in the body. The anti aging supplement products we offer stimulate growth organs and make a positive difference to internal organs, skin, muscles, bones etc. Whether you wish to improve the suppleness of your skin, reduce wrinkles, build muscles or keep your mind agile, count on us for acclaimed antiaging supplement products that make all the difference to you. An Antiaging supplement supplies your body with an abundance of antioxidants, prevents sugar imbalances, reduces stress, increases your ability to handle things, and restores the vital hormones that fight aging. Contact us today for powerful antiaging supplements and you’ll be glad for having come to us.
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