Clinical Trials and Research

In medicine, clinical trials are required in order for doctors and researchers to know whether the medical methods are appropriate for individuals. The application of the scientific method they learned in books and came up with experimentation are tested in the clinical trials before they are diagnosed to human beings.

Observational studies are closely observed and their outcomes are witnessed by investigators. Interventional studies are those treatments which outcomes are also measured.

Doctors and researchers resort to both observational and interventional clinical trials in order to test their hypotheses and to learn more about the effect of these studies and research before using them on their patients.

Clinical trials are small parts of the entire research. Normally, this occurs when all the observation and the studying has been done. This is usually towards the last phase of the whole procedure because this is where the hypothesis is tested.

About 1000 potential drugs go through clinical testing before they are sold to various drug stores. Potential drugs, especially cancer drugs, take a whole lot of time to complete the required clinical trials.

This is a long and arduous process to ensure the effectiveness and the safety of the drug. Doctors and researchers observe the treatment and the side effect with each clinical testing.

There are only certain people who are eligible enough to be part of the clinical trial, especially those of the cancer drugs clinical trial. It takes months, sometimes even years, for a cancer drug to be given the thumbs up.

Clinical trials and research test new drugs, biologics, medical devices and psychological therapies to ensure that the health of the patients won’t be jeopardized. There is also a required regulating authority which approves the therapies, the drugs and the devices before they are provided to the doctors and the researchers.

The clinical trials are designed to determine the efficacy and the safety of the experimental drugs and therapeutic procedures. It is also designed to determine whether this intervention is better than standard therapy or clinical procedures.

Clinical trials promise innovative treatments and approval from the Food and Drug Administration or the FDA as soon as the drugs and the therapy have been approved.

Right now, research centers are conducting clinical trials on the following. The current findings are briefly stated as well.

1. Inflammatory Bowel Diseases which includes Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's Disease

Medical research hasn’t yet determined the causes of inflammatory bowel disease but researchers claim that a lot of factors are involved in its development. This includes diet, environment as well as genetics.

Evidence shows that there is a genetic defect affecting the immune system of the individual. Once triggered, inflammation will occur and the response of the bowel movement gets worse. Once turned on, it can’t be turned off. Researches also show that smoking enhances the possibility of Crohn's disease.

2. Gastroesophegeal Reflux Disease and heartburn conditions

What is known about this disease is that it is a case of mild heartburn. Not much is known about it yet but it is said that if a person frequently suffers from this, he should consult with his doctor as soon as possible.

3. Chronic constipation and constipation treatment

This is caused by colonic disorders, secondary constipation or pelvic floor dysfunction. Colonic disorders result to constipation when the contents in the colon are disturbed. This leads to irritable bowel syndrome and slow transition constipation.

4. Dyspepsia

Those who have dyspepsia usually don’t require further investigation aside from the clinical examination. But people who are older than 55 are the exception to this rule because recent studies show that dyspepsia at this age must be further investigated for esophagogastroduodenoscopy. This is a painless investigation of the espapogus, stomach and the duodenum. This basically rules out peptic ulcer disease if the results turn out to be negative.

5. Multiple Sclerosis

It is hard to diagnose sclerosis, especially in its early stages because it is not detectable at all. Clinical data is not alone to diagnose multiple sclerosis. A person who has suffered two episodes show signs that he probably has the consistent abnormality which is associated to the ailment.

Lucky Thirteen: the Essential Vitamins

Vitamins are important molecules that can allow our bodies to function properly. For instance, some vitamins work as catalytic molecules: they bind to important enzymes, and, as cofactors, work to make molecular reactions happen.

Vitamins can also work as substrates: they are acted upon by different enzymes in the body, so that when they are broken down, their individual subunits can help the different body organs work better.

Vitamins can also serve as co-enzymes or carriers of molecules from one enzyme to another.

We can obtain vitamins through the food that we eat, although the latest technology has allowed scientists to produce some vitamins in the laboratory. These vitamins can be packaged individually as pills, or they can be packed with other vitamins into a multi-vitamin tablet that people can use to supplement their diets.

Research has also shown that we all have a recommended daily intake or allowance of essential vitamins, a group of thirteen important molecules that our bodies absolutely need in order to function properly and survive.

Vitamin A, which belongs to the retinoid group of vitamins, is soluble in fat. Vitamin A can be found in many orange foods, such as carrots or squash. Experts recommend a daily dose of nine hundred to three thousand micrograms of Vitamin A; an overdose of Vitamin A can result in a disease known as hypervitaminosis A, which, among others can cause people to have yellow or orange skin.

Individuals who lack Vitamin A can suffer from night blindness; in fact, doctors recommend that children consume a lot of carrots so that these children’s eyes can develop properly.

Vitamin B1, or thiamine, is a water-soluble vitamin that is part of the B-complex group of vitamins. A debilitating disease called beriberi results when we take less than 1.2 milligrams of Vitamin B1 a day. So far, there is no upper limit for Vitamin B1 consumption.

Riboflavin, or Vitamin B2, is another B-complex group member and a water-soluble vitamin. Like the rest of the B-complex vitamins, riboflavin functions in keeping the integrity of the immune system. It has so far no upper limit for consumption, although taking less than 1.3 milligrams of Vitamin B2 a day can result in a disease called ariboflavinosis.

Another B-complex vitamin is niacin, or Vitamin B3. Water soluble and an immune system sustainer, niacin also functions in growth in young children. The allowable daily dose for Vitamin B3 is from sixteen to thirty-five milligrams; below this range, pellagra can result.

The water-soluble Vitamin B5, or pantothenic acid, is another B-complex vitamin that not only functions in growth and immune system development, but can contribute to strength and energy as well. We are all required to consume at least five milligrams of Vitamin B5 each day; lower consumption can result in paresthesia, or numbness in certain parts of the body.

Pyridoxine, or Vitamin B6, also functions in proper growth and development, especially in young children. A water-soluble B-complex vitamin, pyridoxine must be consumed at a minimum of 1.3 to 1.7 milligrams a day; consumption of the vitamin beyond the hundred milligram mark is considered an overdose, and can result in some eye or perception disorders. Conversely, anemia can occur when the proper amounts of pyridoxine aren’t consumed.

Vitamin B7, or biotin, is another water soluble B-complex vitamin. Although no biotin-deficiency related diseases have been found, we are required to consume at least thirty micrograms of Vitamin B7 every day.

Folic acid, or Vitamin B9, is extremely important for developing children and pregnant mothers. This B-complex vitamin must be consumed at about four hundred to a thousand micrograms a day, or severe birth defects may result in pregnant mothers.

Cyanacobalamin, or Vitamin B12, functions in proper growth and development. About 2.4 micrograms of this water-soluble B-complex vitamin must be consumed each day. Anemia often results from Vitamin B12 deficiency.

Vitamin C or ascorbic acid is a highly important water-soluble essential vitamin that can be found in many fresh fruits and vegetables. Only ninety to two thousand milligrams should be consumed each day, or kidney damage can result. Vitamin C deficiency results in scurvy, which is manifested in cracked skin and a damaged immune system.

Vitamins D, E, and K are all fat soluble vitamins. Vitamin D helps support the body’s skeletal system by working in concert with calcium; it also aids in supporting the immune system. At least fifteen milligrams of Vitamin E must be consumed each day; Vitamin E aids in cell regeneration and wound healing, and is often credited with bringing life and youth to skin. Lastly, Vitamin K can aid in wound healing and blood clotting.

All these vitamins can be obtained from a balanced diet that is filled with lean meats and fresh fruits and vegetables. Always consult with your doctor on what vitamins you should be taking in higher amounts. With a healthier diet, you can have a better lifestyle, with thanks to essential vitamins that keep your body going.

How Are Vitamin Supplements are Made and Choosing the Right Vitamin Supplement

Vitamin supplements are just another kind of dietary supplement but with its primary content made up of the specified vitamin it promotes. Like all other dietary supplements, vitamin supplements have labels with this particular disclaimer displayed: this product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

So from there on, it should be clear to you that vitamin supplements can’t heal illnesses or diseases of any sort, but it can promote good health.

What are Vitamins?

Before we move on to tackling vitamin supplements, lets make sure you understand what vitamins are in the first place.

Vitamins are organic compounds found either within your body or in external sources like food. There are two types of vitamins: fat soluble and water soluble. Vitamins play catalytic functions in your body; in other words, it helps make good things happen.

The Role of Vitamin Supplements

In many countries, vitamin supplements are placed under the food category instead of drugs. This is correct because once again, vitamin supplements aren’t intended to heal anyone of anything. If you see any vitamin supplement labeled otherwise, chances are that those products haven’t been properly evaluated by the US Department of Food and Drug Administration.

You should take vitamin supplements if your body is inherently deficient of a specific vitamin. Naturally, vitamin supplements will help with the created gap. It’s also good to take vitamin supplements if your diet isn’t balanced and healthy due to hectic schedules.

Vitamin supplements shouldn’t be considered as adequate replacements of actual vitamins found in foods. Vitamins found in foods are in its purest form which allows you to enjoy 100% benefit from it. Also, vitamins in foods can interact with other vitamins and substances in a way that vitamin supplement are unable to. Also, eating healthy foods let you increase intake of other essential minerals that aren’t offered by vitamin supplements.

How to Choose the Right Vitamin Supplements

Tip #1 Always look for the USP label on whatever vitamin supplement you wish to take. USP stands for US Pharmacopeia and it simply means that the FDA had successfully approved and licensed its distribution and use since it passed the departments safety and quality control tests.

Tip #2 Labels for vitamin supplements or any other dietary supplement for that matter which contain the following details. If any category is missing, you’re probably holding an unsafe product in your hands.

Statement of Identity   What is it? If its a vitamin supplement, this must be clearly noted as well as which vitamin its supplementing the body with.

Net Quantity of Contents   How many capsules or tablets does it contain? How many milligrams does each tablet contain? If it’s in liquid form, what is its quantity?

Disclaimer   Besides the other disclaimer already provided above, the vitamin supplement should include these words: this statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

Directions of Use   It’s impossible for any vitamin supplement to be produced without any specific directions of use. When can you take it and should there be any other conditions to meet before you can take it?

Supplement Facts Panel   This includes the chart you commonly see on labels, detailing the ingredients used for making the vitamin supplement. Research each ingredient. Don’t be lazy with this because its your health at stake!

Manufacturing Information   Lastly, your vitamin supplement label should include details about who manufactured the product, where and when it was manufactured and its expiration date. Contact details should also be provided in the event that you have inquiries or concerns regarding the product.

Research about the manufacturing company and inquire with the Better Business Bureau about them.

Tip #3 Natural isn’t always good. Even if you see that a vitamin supplement is labeled as natural in big bold letters, this doesn’t mean you’re completely safe. Think of wild poisonous mushrooms; they’re natural alright, but they’re toxic as well.

Vitamin supplements are essentially good as long as you take them for the right reasons. Again, remember not to use them as a replacement for healthy living. To avoid making the wrong decision, research extensively before purchasing any product, or better yet, consult your doctor for advice.

A Closer Resourceful Look on Vitamin A

Vitamin A is the generic term for compounds that are related to one another. Take for example Retinol and retinal. The former is an alcohol and the latter is an aldehyde. However, both are preformed kinds of Vitamin A.

Retinal is converted to retinoic acid by the body. This is a kind of Vitamin A that affects the gene transcription. Retinol, retinal and retinoic acids are compounds that are related to one another. The beta-carotene and the carotenoids are converted in the body through retinol and are called the pro-vitamin A carotenoids.

The function of Vitamin A in the body is the effect it has on the individuals sight. Retina is found at the back of the eyes. Whenever light goes through the lens, the retina senses this and converts it to the nerves which is interpreted by the brain.

Retinol is later transported to the retina through the circulation. Here it moves into the retinal pigment that is the epithelial cells. Retinol is then esteried and becomes a retinyl ester which is stored. Whenever the eyes need retinyl esters, these are broken apart and then isomerized in order to form an oxidized Vitamin A.

Retinal is then shuttled through the interphotoreceptor that is the rod cells. It binds to the protein that is called opsin in order to formulate the visual pigment that is known as the rhodopsin. The rod cells detect the light, even in small amounts, making it necessary for night vision.

The isomerization process then triggers a cascade of events that lead to the generation of the electric signal through the optic nerve. These impulses are generated by the optic nerve which conveys it to the brain. This is the whole explanation to why we see what we see. This is the whole vision process.

Once these are released by the retinal and converted to retinol, the interphotoreceptor matrix in the retina completes the whole visual cycle. This whole procedure is made easier when the person has an adequate intake of Vitamin A.

The whole point of Vitamin A is that the retinoic acid and the isomers serve as the hormones which affect the genes that influence the physiological process of ones vision. The retinols and retinoic acid proteins all contribute to the cell bound of the retinoic binding proteins.

Within this whole nucleus setting are the receptors which bind all these regions to the retinoic acid response elements or the RARE. Here the dimmer is the complex mixture of two protein molecules.

Vitamin A is also an anti-infective vitamin because it requires the normal functioning of the individuals immune system in order to accommodate the cells located in the skin and the mucus lining as much as possible. The digestive and urinary tract sometimes function as an obstacle and form the first line when it comes to defending the body against infection.

The retinoic acid and Vitamin A play central roles in developing white blood cells. These are critical roles in the response of the individual to lurking diseases. The regulatory cells in the immune system require the RA binding of Vitamin A.

Once fully grown and developed, the Vitamin A in the body may either be excess or lacking. Whatever the scenario, this may lead to complications, therefore the Vitamin A intake must just be the right amount in order to prevent birth defects.

The metabolites in the retinol usually require the integrity and well functioning of the cells in the body in order to become the central operating system in the differentiation and development of the white blood cells in the body.

Vitamin A interacts with other nutrients. For example, the interaction between Vitamin A and zinc is said to be interfering with the metabolism since zinc results to the decrease of synthetic binding in the retinol. This transports retinol into the tissues instead of the circulatory system.

Another interaction is that of Vitamin A with Iron. When this happens, Vitamin A exacerbates iron which leads to anemia. The supplementation must be beneficial on iron as well as Vitamin A in order to improve the status of the individual especially that of children as well as pregnant women.

Good Things in Small Packages: Knowing your Supplemental Vitamins

Thanks to technology and more knowledge about vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients that the human body should have, doctors now have a wider, wonderful arsenal of ways to keep us healthy.

One of these is vitamin tablets, which we can take during or after meals in order to supplement the nutrients that we get from our food. Because of our speedier, but often dangerous lifestyle, we tend to eat less nutritious food that is more convenient that healthful.

As a result, we miss out on important vitamins that we can get only from the freshest fruits and vegetables, and the leanest meat.

Taking supplemental vitamins or dietary supplements, therefore, can help ensure that we receive the right amounts of essential vitamins and minerals that our bodies are required to have each day. The contents of vitamin supplements are well measured, so that taking one pill can help you receive the right amount of essential vitamins and minerals.

Most of the essential vitamins have a minimum requirement for daily consumption; some vitamin deficiencies can lead to debilitating, sometimes even fatal diseases.

For instance, we need at least ninety milligrams of the essential vitamin ascorbic acid, or Vitamin C. Although we can obtain this vitamin from regular servings of orange or lemon juice, vegetables, and sometimes even from fortified candies, we don’t always have the chance to pick up fresh fruit or vegetables, drink fresh juice, or buy Vitamin C fortified candy.

We aren’t able to constantly monitor our Vitamin C intake. Vitamin C deficiency can lead to a number of disorders, among them scurvy, which can cause the skin and nails to crack; and some immune system disorders, as the immune system needs ascorbic acid in order to function.

We can therefore see how important supplemental vitamins are. They can make life more convenient for us, so that if we miss out on the regular doses of essential vitamins, we can still take a small pill and get the vitamins that our bodies need.

This convenience shouldn’t deceive you, however: taking supplemental vitamins doesn’t exempt anyone from eating fresh fruit and vegetables along with lean meats in the context of a balanced diet. As their name implies, supplemental vitamins merely support a good diet; the supplemental vitamins don’t replace them.

Supplemental vitamins, moreover, shouldn’t be taken indiscriminately. Indeed, many doctors discourage buying supplemental vitamins over the counter unless a patient has been checked and assessed completely.

This is because some vitamins can only be taken in moderate amounts, beyond which they can, in turn, exacerbate certain medical conditions. Further, some vitamins can interfere with medications; for instance, some painkillers can be destroyed by acids, so if you are taking ascorbic acid, you may need to wait a while before taking your painkillers.

Because of the promise of dietary supplements, some countries have passed legislation in the hope of curbing indiscriminate use of supplements.

For instance, the United States government requires that all advertisements featuring dietary supplements should also contain a disclaimer that the dietary supplement isn’t designed to treat any specific diseases, that the supplement isn’t made to prevent or cure any disorder, and that the supplement has no health claims that have been evaluated or discovered by the United States Food and Drug Administration, or FDA.

Many bottles of supplemental vitamins sold in the United States not only have this disclaimer, but also contain descriptions of the vitamins in the supplement. This is because some vitamins present in supplements are different in molecular form and chemistry from the vitamins that are found in food.

Moreover, most bottles of supplemental vitamins exhort the consumer to always consult with his or her physician before taking any supplemental vitamins.

If you are consuming supplemental vitamins, take only one pill a day, or as recommended by your doctor. Avoid self diagnosis. Read the label of your vitamin bottle, and look through the amounts of vitamins present in each pill.

You will need to consume some vitamins at a recommended amount, or you may suffer from vitamin poisoning. For instance, iron is often added to vitamin supplements, but at extremely high doses, iron can damage the kidneys.

Moreover, look at the rest of the nutrients and, possibly, herbal additives in the vitamin supplement. Some supplements come with ginseng, an herb that has been found to increase energy, but which can be dangerous if you have high blood pressure.

Always check with your doctor on what herbs are good for you, and what you might have to avoid. Although vitamin supplements cater to keeping you healthy, you should still do your utmost to ensure that you aren’t endangered by them.

Everything You Need To Know About Vitamin A

Vitamin A is important to the body. It isn’t only a single compound, it comes in various forms. It comes in the form of alcohol as retinol, as well as aldehyde in the form of retinal. It also comes in the form of acid which is retinoic acid.

Vitamin A contains a Beta-ionone ring which is attached to an isoprenoid chain. This is the normal structure of the Vitamin A nutrient. Retinol is the animal form and is a fat-soluble and anti-oxidant vitamin that is important to a persons vision as well as bone growth.

It is a retinoid that is chemically related to one another. This is also used in medicines.

RDA for Vitamin A as supervised by the Food and Nutrition Board is that a daily dosage must be taken in order to support the normal functioning of the body; be it immune functions, reproductive functions, genes or visions.

For infants up to 6 months old, they are required to have an intake of 400 mcg. For infants that are 7 to 12 months old, they are required 500 mcg. For children 1 to 3 years of age, they must have 300 mcg. For children 4 to 8 years of age, they are required to have 400 mcg.

For children 9 to 13, they must have 600 mcg. For teenagers 14 to 18 years old, the males must have 900 mcg while the females are okay with 700 mcg. For adults, males are required to have 900 mcg while females must have 700 mcg.

Vitamin A intake also varies for pregnant women. Women aged 18 years or younger must have 750 mcg. Pregnant women who are 19 years and older must have 770 mcg.

The Vitamin A intake also changes when the female is breastfeeding. For those younger than 18, they are required to have 1200 mcg. For those who are 19 and older, they must have 1300 mcg.

Vitamin A may be found in yellow and orange vegetables. Green vegetables contain carotenoids too. There are a number of healthy foods which contain Vitamin A and retinol. These are cod liver oil, breakfast cereals, eggs, butter, milk, sweet potatoes, carrots, cantaloupes, spinach, squash and butternut.

Vitamin A deficiency results in:

1. Nyctalopia or Night Blindness

This is a condition which makes it impossible or difficult for the individual to see in a low light scenario. This is the symptom of other eye diseases. Night blindness may be apparent at birth or it may be rooted from the lack of Vitamin A. This is a disorder that affects the rod cells found in the retina. The rod cells lose their ability in responding toward the light. People who suffer this disease have poor vision in the dark.

2. Xeroxis or Corneal Drying

This may have different causes which includes dehydration, diabetes and lack of Vitamin A. The treatment is symptomatic. You can consult with an eye doctor. The usual diagnosis is eye drops.

3. Bitot's Spots

These are triangular spots found in the eyes. They are similar to floaters (which are like spider webs in the eyes.) Just like xeroxis, this can be cured by eye drops prescribed by eye doctors.

4. Xerophthalmia

This is a medical condition where the eye can’t produce tears. It is caused by the lack of Vitamin A. It also implies a dryness that is destructive to the epithelium. The condition usually occurs in developing countries because of its environment and surrounding. Other forms of xeropthalmia come with aging, scarring from injuries or autoimmune diseases like arthritis.

5. Keratomalacia

Is an eye ailment that leads to the cornea drying up. It may also be caused by dehydration as much as it is caused by lack of Vitamin A. Now this is quite dangerous because it might lead to glaucoma and the individual may lose his or her sight permanently if not remedied as soon as possible.

Vitamin A deficiency is considered to be risky especially if it results in other diseases such as respiratory problems and infection. IT affects children more than it affects adults. Those who lack Vitamin A eventually suffer diarrhea and measles. Those who are already HIV-infected and lack Vitamin A have a harder time getting cured.

Getting To Know Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 (also known as Pyridoxine, Pyridoxamine or Pyridoxal) is a vitamin that can easily be dissolved in water which means the body is not able to store it for a long time. This also means that person should get a regular supply of Vitamin B6 since it is easily excreted through the urine.

Since this isn’t the most popular vitamin,  you might wonder about the benefits brought by this vitamin to the body.  Vitamin B6 is generally needed by the body for overall health.  However, here are some specific functions of B6 to the body:

ò             Protein Metabolism

ò             Metabolism of red blood cell

ò             Tryptophan conversion to niacin

ò             Proper functioning of the nervous system

ò             Proper functioning of the immune system

ò             Increases the oxygen level of hemoglobin

ò             Maintenance of sugar or blood glucose

Vitamin B6 plays a very important role in the maintenance of the bodies systems and it is recommend that a person takes in at least 1.3 mg of Vitamin B6 daily (men and women below 50); 1.7 mg (men over 50); 1.5 mg (women over 50; 2 mg (women who are lactating) and 1.9 mg (women who are pregnant).

The good thing about Vitamin B6 is that it can be easily soured from plants (vegetables) and animal sources.  Among the foods that contain Vitamin B6 are:

ò             Liver

ò             Chicken

ò             Avocados

ò             Nuts

ò             Bananas

ò             Wheat germ

ò             Fortified cereals

ò             Flesh and skin of baked potato

ò             Chicken Breast

ò             Salmon and Tuna

Vitamin B6 is indeed an essential Vitamin for the bodies functions. Thus, a deficiency in this vitamin can lead to serious health conditions for a person.  How can a person become deficient in Vitamin B6? A person who has a poor diet and who doesn’t regularly take in foods rich in Vitamin B6 can become deficient. 

Alcoholics are also candidates for Vitamin B6 deficiency because alcohol destroys the presence of this vitamin in the body.  Children with asthma and who are treated by tehophylline should get Vitamin B6 supplements as this medication results to a low storage of Vitamin B6 in the body.

Consider the following health problems for those who are deficient in Vitamin B6:

1. Pyroluria-is an illness related to chemical imbalance as a result of an abnormal synthesis of the hemoglobin.  And because B6 is an important component in hemoglobin formation, its deficiency can cause this disease.

2. Irritability/Grumpiness/Depression-A person who exhibits this symptom can be deficient in Vitamin B6.  However, studies don’t conclude that depression can be treated by Vitamin B6 supplements.

3. Dermatitis or skin disorders

4. Soreness of the tongue

5. Anemia

Vitamin B6 is popular as a supplemental treatment for:

ò             Vitamin B6 supplements to prevent any harm from befalling the patient.

ò             Premenstrual Syndrome-Vitamin B6 has been used to treat this condition which is more popularly known as PMS.   However, there are reports of high toxicity among women taking this for PMS.

ò             Carpal tunnel syndrome-There is no scientific evidence that taking in a minimum of 100 mg of Vitamin B6 daily can treat this illness.  However, a lot of books are recommending this.  It is important to consult with a doctor first to ensure the safety of the patient.

ò             Taking Vitamin B6 either in supplements or from food sources is said to be instrumental in cutting back the risks resulting from Parkinson’s disease.   However, the study is still non-conclusive.

ò             It can be used to lessen the effects of a hangover as well as the pains of morning sickness usually experienced by pregnant women.  It has been proven safe for pregnant women although a drug containing B6 was withdrawn from the market due to the high risk of birth defects among pregnant users.

ò             The regular intake of Vitamin B6 as well as other substances like magnesium is said to be an effective treatment for autistic children.

Some people who may still be using Vitamin B6 supplements should be careful of a possible overdose.  A Vitamin B6 (particularly from supplements not from food sources) overdose can result in a deadening or numbing of the arms and legs, also known as sensory neuropathy in the medical world.  However, such a condition can be reversed once the taking in of the Vitamin B6 is stopped.

The Lowdown on Vitamin B12

The body actually needs a small amount of Vitamin B12 (also known as coalmine because it contains cobalt) and yet every person is encouraged to take this vitamin either through eating foods high in Vitamin B12 or through supplements because it isn’t well absorbed by the body.  It is one of the most complex vitamins and it exists in many forms or compounds that are basically known as cobalamins:

ò             Methylcobalamin-Vitamin B12 used by the body

ò             Cynanocobalami-Vitamin B12 used in supplements

Sources of Vitamin B12

Vitamins B12 is primarily found in dairy products, meat and eggs.  Research shows that there is a possibility of sourcing Vitamin B12 from plants, seaweeds and soya products.  However, a closer study showed that there is no significant B12 content from these sources. 

Nori (the same green seaweed used in wrapping sushi) showed significant levels of B12 but it was attributed to compounds that are similar to B12 in terms of structure. 

Here are some foods that contain some amount of Vitamin B12

ò             Liver

ò             Mollusks

ò             Salmon, Tuna and Trout

ò             Beef (the sirloin part)

ò             Tacos and Cheeseburger

ò             Yogurt

It would be important to note that human waste contains Vitamin B12.  This was discovered after vegetarians got their required B12 content from vegetables that were grown using human waste as fertilizer. 

However, a person may think twice before sourcing his Vitamin B12 from such circumstances. Incidentally, vegetarians lack the necessary daily Vitamin B12 requirement because they don’t eat meat products. Thus, they can get heir B12 requirement from supplements.

Why is Vitamin B12 necessary?  A person needs only two micrograms of Vitamin B12 every day for the following purposes:

ò             Red blood cells synthesis-Vitamin B12 is an important factor in red blood cell formation (particularly in the production of DNA).  Failure to meet the B12 requirement can result to anemia. However, folic acid can remedy this problem (although excessive intake of folic acid can trigger the effects of such deficiency).

ò             Development and maintenance of the Nervous system- Myelin is an important component and protecting sheath of the nerves and Vitamin B12 helps in myelin maintenance through the sustenance of fatty acids.  

ò             Growth and development-lack of Vitamin B12 can impede the development not only of the nerves but also the whole bodies systems.

ò             Sleep disturbances- B12 is used in regulating the cycles and sleeping and waking up through a substance called melatonin so a B12 deficiency can possibly affect sleeping patterns.

ò             Alzheimer’s dementia-the most damaging effects of B12 deficiency is damage to the brain and the nervous system.

While Americans have been faithful in their required daily intake of Vitamin B12, health researchers however found that there is still a good chance for deficiency if a person is unable to absorb B12 from his food intake and no supplement is being taken. 

This is common among people who have stomach disorders limiting their B12 absorption.  The following are some of the symptoms of B12 deficiency.

1.            Breathlessness

2.            Poor Immune System

3.            Tiredness

4.            Menstrual problems for women

5.            Sore Tongue

Contraindications

While Vitamin B12 is usually sourced from natural food and its intake generally safe, taking in large doses of B12 supplements can have negative effects for people who are on medication.

A person who is taking in PPI or proton pump inhibitors (medication for peptic ulcer as well as GERD or gastro esophageal reflux disease) and the intake of H2 receptor antagonists (medications for peptic ulcers) may have a problem with B12 absorption as PPI slows down the discharge of hydrochloric acid which is necessary in releasing B12. 

On the other hand, the intake of Metformin for diabetes can also affect calcium metabolism which in turn interferes with B12 absorption.

While the intake of B12 supplements is generally safe due to its low toxicity potential, it should however be regulated by doctors for safety purposes.   Adults are particularly encouraged to take in B12 supplements as their potential for low B12 absorption is greater.

The problem in diagnosing deficiency in Vitamin B12 is that it can take so long for the symptoms and the corresponding side effects to be monitored.  And when that time comes, the effects may already be too serious and require long term treatment.

All You Need To Know About Vitamin D

The adage popularized by older people about exposing babies and children to the sun early in the morning to get Vitamins has a medical basis indeed as shown by medical information confirming that Vitamin D can indeed be sourced from sun rays.  But there is more to Vitamin D than just being synthesized through the sun.

Like most Vitamins which can be sourced from food, Vitamin D is sourced not only from the UV rays of the sun but also from various food groups.  However, a person who wants a free dose of this vitamin can get it by exposing himself to the sun as the latter triggers the synthesis of Vitamin D in the skin.

Vitamin D per se doesn’t do wonders for the body (although there are some forms that are active like Calciferol) because it needs to be chemically converted into dihydroxyvitamin D.  The conversion is done with the help of the kidneys and the liver.  This form of Vitamin D is important as it is responsible for:

ò             stimulating phosphorus and calcium absorption

ò             helps in formation of strong bones

ò             along with the other Vitamins and minerals, Vitamin D promotes the   mineralization of bones

ò             help in the maintenance of a healthy immune system

ò             preventing rickets (for children)

ò             preventing osteomalacia (for adults)

ò             regulates growth of cells

A person who wants to get a regular doze of Vitamin D can look for fortified foods or regular food groups that have substantial content of this vitamin. Vitamin D can be sourced from the following food sources.

ò             Cooked mackerel and salmon

ò             Canned tuna fish and sardines

ò             Milk (whether whole milk, reduced fat milk, nonfat milk, or milk fortified with Vitamin D)

ò             Margarine fortified with Vitamin D

ò             Cereals fortified with Vitamin D

ò             Egg yolk (although eating the whole egg is advisable)

ò             Swiss cheese

ò             Cooked beef and liver

ò             sunlight

While sunlight is considered an important source of Vitamin D there are factors that affect the synthesis of this vitamin in the skin like smog, pollution, cloud cover, time of the day when exposed, season and the use of sunscreen (sunscreen with at least an SPF 8 will inhibit the exposure to UV rays of the sun). 

A 10-minute exposure to the rays of the sun may be enough to allow Vitamin D synthesis and a person should apply sunscreen with SPF 15 to protect his skin from the damaging effects of the sun.

A person who wants to maintain healthy bones should make sure he gets Adequate Intake of Vitamin D.  Here is a guide to the daily AI of Vitamin D (in International Units or IU) according to age bracket:

Newborns up to 13 years old-200 IU

Men and women who are 14 to 18 years old-200IU

Men and women who are 51 to 70 years old-400 IU

Men and women who are over 71 years of age-600 IU

Pregnant women 14 to 50 years old-200 IU

Lactating women 14 to 50 years old-200 IU

Despite the availability of sunlight and foods containing Vitamin D, deficiency can still occur among all age groups due to a lot of factors including absorption defects (problem with the kidney resulting to failure in conversion), inadequate diet, lack of sun exposure, and increasing requirement of the Vitamin. 

Among those who usually experience Vitamin D deficiency are vegetarians, people who are lactose intolerant as well as those with milk allergies.

Effects of Vitamin D deficiency

A person who is deficient in Vitamin D can be susceptible to bone-related diseases like:

1. Rickets-This is a disease of the bone which is characterized by deformities in the bones.  This occurs when the body fails to mineralize the bone tissues properly due to lack of Vitamin D.  Research however shows that this can be reversed with the daily intake of up to 3 teaspoons of cod liver oil.  

The prevalence of Rickets among Americans resulted to the mandatory Vitamin D fortification on milk.

2. Osteomalacia-This is a bone disease identified with adults and is characterized by weak muscles and bones.  The problem is that such deficiency can’t be easily detected until bone weakness and other bone-related diseases shows up which can take long.  Americans who are over 50 years of age are more susceptible to getting this disease because their skin is no longer as efficient in synthesizing Vitamin D. 

The same goes for their kidneys.  Vitamin D supplements are thus recommended for these people.

3. Osteoporosis-Whiles this disease is more identified with lack of calcium resulting to fragile bones, this is also one of the long terms effects of Vitamin D deficiency.  A person with enough Vitamin D in his bones will have lesser chances of getting osteoporosis.

If Vitamin D deficiency can result in bone-related diseases, too much intake of Vitamin D can also be a health hazard as it can cause vomiting, nausea, weight loss and constipation.  However, a person who relies on the sun for his Vitamin D is safe from toxicity.  Those taking in supplements should be more careful not to go overboard.

All About Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin and is an antioxidant that is necessary in the body. Vitamin E exists in eight forms called isomers, four of which are tocopherols and the other four are tocotrienols.

All the isomers have chromanol rings with hydroxyl groups which provide the hydrogen atom the material to reduce the free radicals to make a hydrophobic side chain which penetrates through the biological membranes of the body.

The alpha, bet, gamma and the delta form of the tocopherols as well as the tocotrienols determine the number of the methyl groups within the chromanol rings. Each of these forms have their own biological activity which measures the function and the potency of Vitamin E in the individual.

What foods have it?

The most abundant source of vitamin E are vegetable oils like sunflower, corn, palm oil, olive oil and soybean. Nuts, sea buckthorn berries and kiwi fruit, wheat germ and sunflower seeds are also sources of Vitamin E.

Other sources include whole grains, peanut butter, green leafy vegetables and fish. Breakfast cereals are also rich in Vitamin E because these are originally extracted from wheat germ oil.

For a clearer picture of how much Vitamin E can be found in each source per 100 g, read on:

Asparagus û 1.5 mg

Carrots û 0.6 mg

Chestnut û 1.2 mg

Coconut û 1.0 mg

Corn û 2.0 mg

Hazelnut û 26.0 mg

Oats û 1.5 mg

Olive oil û 12.0 mg

Peanut û 9.0 mg

Peanut oil û 17.2 mg

Pollard û 2.4 mg

Soybean û 1.2 mg

Soybean oil û 14.6 mg

Sunflower oil û 55.8 mg

Tomatoes û 0.9 mg

Walnut oil û 20.0 mg

Wheat germ oil û 215.4 mg

How much should we take?

The US DRI or Dietary Reference Intake recommends that a young male take 15 mg of Vitamin E every day. Previous studies showed that Americans failed to meet the recommended amounts of Vitamin E in their normal diet.

The IOM or Institute of Medicine reports that Vitamin E intake is lower compared to the fat and energy intake of Americans, as seen in conducted national surveys. The IOM also believed that most North Americans can get enough Vitamin E if they follow a diet consisting of mostly vegetable oils.

However, Vitamin E may act as anticoagulant. If this happens, then there is a greater risk of bleeding problems. Therefore Vitamin E is regulated to 1000 mg each day for those who are going through the ailment.

The government doesn’t recommend over dosages of Vitamin E as to the fact that it increases bleeding. This is because there are synthetic and semi synthetic Vitamin E supplements that increase the mortality rate.

What is considered a deficiency?

There are three situations for vitamin E deficiency taking place. This is apparent to those who are not able to absorb dietary fat, those who are premature, those who have low birth weight when they were infants and those who have rare disorders such as fat metabolism.

Vitamin E deficiency are usually characterized by problems in the nerve system because of poor conduction.

Individuals who have difficulty in absorbing fat require Vitamin E supplements because they need dietary fat in order to absorb their intake of the nutrient in the gastrointestinal tract.

Anyone who has been diagnosed with cystic fibrosis or has had their stomach or part of it removed suffer malabsorptive problems like liver disease, Crowns disease and pancreatic insufficiency.

These deficiencies are inherited and this result to poor absorption of Vitamin E and dietary fat. This may create problems in the nerves, muscles and the retina which can eventually lead to blindness. Individuals who have been diagnosed with deficiencies in Vitamin E must be prescribed special Vitamin E supplements in order to treat the disorder.

Health Risks Associated to Vitamin E

Research has shown that Vitamin E may either prevent or delay coronary heart problems. It limits the oxidation in the body and prevents the formation of blood clots which could result in a heart attack.

Also, because Vitamin E is an antioxidant, it protects against the effects of radicals which contribute to the development of cancer. It blocks the formation of nitrosamines which are located in the stomach. It also enhances the immune function.

Finally, the lack of Vitamin E clouds the tissue of the lens of the eyes. This increases the individuals risk of going blind. Observational studies have shown that Vitamin E can help prevent this and therefore the lack of Vitamin E triggers the production of cataracts.

Vitamins:  Know What They Are and Why You Need Them

Vitamins are nutrients necessary for the regulation of many different bodily functions in animals and humans.  They are important for the formation of tissues, blood cells, genetic material, hormones and chemicals for the nervous system. 

Vitamins can either be catalysts or coenzymes.  As catalysts, vitamins bind with proteins to produce enzymes that will in turn produce essential chemical reactions within the body.  As coenzymes, they act as chemical carriers from one body cell to the next.

The history of vitamins

Vitamins as we know them today were largely unknown thousands of years ago and whatever nutrients and benefits vitamins give were only received through the ingestion of food.  Some of the ancient civilizations discovered through observation, experimentation or purely by accident that some foods seemed to offer relief or cures for certain illnesses and ailments. 

Ancient Egyptian doctors, for example, would prescribe liver to patients suffering from night blindness.

Certain vitamin benefits were also discovered long before they were named.  The benefits of citrus fruits, for example, a known source of Vitamin C, was first extolled in the mid 1700s long before it was known that vitamins existed.  It was first used to prevent and cure scurvy.  Although successful, the practice was initially met with skepticism. 

Then, in 1897, a Dutch scientist named Christiaan Eijkman discovered that unpolished rice helped prevent beriberi.  The next year, another scientist, Frederick Hopkins, coined the term 'accessory factors', unknown substances that certain foods contained which contributed to health and well being.

It was only in the early 1900s when a Polish biochemist named Kazimierz Funk was able to isolate and identify a complex group of micronutrients.  In 1912, the name 'vitamine' was proposed and used, considered to refer to what Hopkins called 'accessory factors'.  The name was later changed to 'vitamin' in 1920.

Why we need vitamins

The human body can only produce one type of vitamin naturally and that is Vitamin D.  The other vitamins must be taken either through diet or supplements.  The benefits of vitamins were discovered by using deprivation studies.  Scientists were able to isolate different vitamins and determine that deficiencies led to certain illnesses, health risks and birth defects. 

As science progressed, vitamins made the jump from their natural sources such as plants and animals and became available in pill form.

Today, there are 13 different vitamins, categorized as fat soluble or water soluble.  Fat soluble vitamins include Vitamins A, D, E and K and water soluble vitamins include the Vitamin B group and Vitamin C.  Fat soluble vitamins, when they enter the body, are absorbed by the intestinal tract. 

It then joins the bloodstream.  Fat soluble vitamins are more difficult to dissolve and excess amounts are often stored in the liver or in the body's fat.  This means that it's not necessary to consume fat soluble vitamins everyday.

Water soluble vitamins, on the other hand, are more readily expelled by the body through urine.  Because they can’t be stored, it's often necessary that they are taken more frequently.

Vitamins in food

While vitamin supplements can often help replenish the body's supply, the best sources of vitamins still come from fruits, vegetables and animal products.  Here are excellent sources of different vitamins essential to health:

Vitamin A

Vitamin A can be sourced from dairy products such as milk, cream and cheese.  It can also be found in animal liver, kidneys, meat and fish oils from halibut and cod.  These foods do contain cholesterol and saturated fat, so if you prefer fruit and vegetable sources, try intensely colorful picks such as carrots, cantaloupes, pumpkins, squashes, sweet potatoes, spinach and broccoli.

Vitamin B group

Vitamin B1 or thiamine can be found in cereals, whole grains, pasta, fish, meats and soybeans.  Vitamin B3 or niacin can be found in lean meats, poultry, fish and dairy products.  Legumes, nuts, eggs and enriched cereals and breads are also good sources.

Pantothenic acid, biotin and Vitamin B12 can be found in fish, eggs, poultry and dairy products.  Vitamin B12 can also be sourced from shellfish and meat. 

Vitamin C or ascorbic acid

When looking for Vitamin C, think citrus.  Lemons, limes, oranges, cantaloupes, strawberries and grapefruits are rich in Vitamin C.  So are turnip greens, sweet potatoes, tomatoes and broccoli.

Vitamin D

Although naturally produced by the body, Vitamin D needs to be replenished.  It can be found in butter, margarine, cream, cheese and cereals.  It is also found in oysters, fish and fortified foods. 

Vitamin E

Also known as an excellent antioxidant, Vitamin E can be found in nuts, olives, wheat germ, spinach, seeds, corn and most green leafy vegetables.

Vitamin K

Bacteria found in the human intestines can produce Vitamin K but to ensure you get the right amount, eat cereals and vegetables such as spinach, cauliflower, cabbage and soybeans.

Pros and Cons of Vitamins for Children: Do They Really Need Them?

Health experts say that children who eat foods based on the recommended food guide pyramid don’t necessarily need vitamin supplements. This type of diet contains all the necessary vitamins and nutrients that your child needs.

However, some factors may affect the way you prepare foods and eventually lose the vitamins contained in the food. Also, some children are just picky eaters, hence, they acquire too little nutrients to supply their daily needs.

Now the question is: In cases like this, is it advisable for parents to provide their children with vitamin supplements to cover up for whatever is lacking in their diet? Is it safe and effective to use vitamin supplements?

By definition, vitamins are elements needed by the body for proper function and promotion of normal body processes. With this, you can directly conclude that people, old and young alike, need vitamins to be healthy.

And because it is a well-known fact that children don’t get enough vitamins from the food that they eat, vitamin supplements are deemed necessary.

But is this really the case?

As much as people contend the viability of vitamin supplements for children, some health experts contend that they aren’t that necessary. Besides, excessive intake of vitamins may do more harm than good.

So what is the bottom line? To understand more, here are some pros and cons about vitamins for children:

Pros

1. They promote cell growth

As children grow, so do their bodies. However, to facilitate cell growth, children need vitamins. Vitamins take part in the development of blood cells and other tissues in the body.

2. Vitamins serve as antioxidants

Most vitamins serve as antioxidants. Hence, vitamins also act as preservatives by inhibiting the oxidation process or disintegration of polyunsaturated fatty acids. Antioxidants combat the free radicals in the body. Hence, children are assured of effective protection against diseases.

3. Aids digestion

Some vitamins contain fiber, which aids in proper digestion of the body. Lack of fiber may cause problems in the bowel and may even cause more serious problems such as circulatory disorders.

Vitamins also act as coenzymes because they help in conveying these different tasks.

Cons

1. Excess vitamins can cause greater health problems.

Most people disregard this, but health experts and various studies show that excess vitamins can cause serious health problems.

Let us take for example excessive intake of vitamin A. Letting your children take vitamin A more than the recommended dietary supplement, serious problems in the nervous system may take place.

Another example is vitamin D. Excessive intake of vitamin D may cause calcium resorption, which can lead to increased calcium in the blood. When this happens, functions of the soft tissues in the body, such as the lungs and the heart, may be lessened or reduced.

Excessive intake of vitamin C may cause severe diarrhea or watery stools. It can also reduce the amount of copper in the body.

2. Too much dependency

Some parents tend to allocate their child’s need for nutrients to the vitamin supplements available on the market. This is especially true to parents who can no longer prepare a healthy diet for their children because of a hectic schedule at work.

Hence, they tend to devote their children’s vitamin requirements in supplements, which in reality, may be taken in great amounts. This goes to show how parents can be vulnerable sometimes especially if they want the best for their kids and are very busy with their work.

Plus, non-monitoring of children taking vitamins can also bring forth cases of excessive intake, where children usually enjoy taking vitamins that are available as tasty, chewable vitamins.

3. Odor and taste

Contrary to number two, some vitamins just don’t smell or taste that good. Take for example vitamin B. Children find it hard to take vitamins that have repulsive tastes or smell.

All of these things lay down various options for parents to decide whether they have to give their children vitamins or not.

Indeed, the need for the accessibility of vitamins for children can’t be rejected and so it is important to know the necessary vitamins required for children. However, parents should also take note that vitamins should be regarded as something that is as delicate and destructive as any drug on the market.

Hence, utmost care in choosing the best vitamins for your children is extremely important.

Vitamins for Pregnancy: Supplements that Help When You're Eating for Two

You can’t drink this. You can’t drink that. Women are being put on trial for engaging in unhealthy behaviors during pregnancy.  Of course, things like doing drugs or drinking alcohol are indeed very dangerous to your baby. 

After all, everything a pregnant woman eats, drinks, and breathes will reach her fetus through the placenta. 

Now, the question is: Are vitamins included? What are the vitamins recommended for pregnant women?

What will be the effects? Here’s the real truth about the vitamins pregnant women can and can’t get away right now.

Vitamins Essential for Moms-To-Be

1. Vitamin C

This vitamin is important in the manufacturing of your baby’s blood vessels, bones, and the whole skeletal system. Vitamin C helps produce collagen, a protein responsible for producing your baby’s skeletal foundation. 

Vitamin C is also known as skin food because it feeds your skin as well as your baby’s skin with the right nutrients to help build healthy skin. As an antioxidant, it can also help you and your baby fight free radicals or delay the oxidation process.

Since your body can’t produce vitamin C, unlike most animals, and it can’t store it either, it is important that you get your daily supply of vitamins from supplements and foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus foods, vegetables, and fruits.

2. Foliate

Foliate, a B vitamin, is another nutrient necessary for the production of healthy red blood cells. And not everybody gets enough.

Foliate is found primarily in fresh fruits and vegetables, and people who eat a lot of canned or pre-packaged foods can become deficient.  Pregnant women who live alone and don’t want to cook for one are especially at risk for anemia caused by foliate deficiency.

Health experts suggest that a few servings of fresh fruits and vegetables every day are the best bet for prevention. If you can’t bear Brussels sprouts, consider taking a daily nutritional supplement with 400 micrograms, the Daily Value of folic acid (the supplemental form of foliate).

3. Vitamin A

A daily intake of vitamin A between 10,000 and 15,000 IU (international units) may also provide healthy bones, skin, and eyes to your baby as well as healthy cells needed to build your baby’s internal organs.

However, pregnant women should speak with their doctors before supplementing their diet with vitamin A. Studies show that excessive intake of vitamin A can bring about birth defects, such as ear and eye abnormalities, microcephaly or small head, cleft lip and palate, hydrocephaly or enlargement of the fluid-filled paces in the brain, mental retardation, or heart defects.

Statistics show that pregnant women who consume more than 10,000 IU of vitamin A can lead to birth defects in 1 of every 57 infants. Also, excessive intake of vitamin A during pregnancy can cause higher risks of miscarriage.

4. Vitamin D

When researchers in a certain study measured levels of vitamin D in pregnant women, they saw that the more vitamin D in the blood, the better the insulin was at delivering glucose to the muscles.  So vitamin D is an important nutrient for many other reasons as well, such as helping produce healthy teeth, tissue, and bones for your baby and may help your body derail diabetes.

Studies show that diabetes in pregnant women can be very risky and may even cause birth defects or morbidity.

Though vitamin D is produced when your skin is exposed to sunlight, a more reliable year-round source is milk. Four 8-ounce glasses of fat-free milk everyday can get you to the Daily Value of 400 IU. Alternatively, you can supplement your diet with 400 IU of vitamin D.

5. Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 facilitates the formation of hemoglobin, the red blood cell component that carries oxygen through the bloodstream.  During pregnancy, more hemoglobin is required to supply your baby with oxygen. And the fetus also uses this vitamin to build its own blood supply.

Your body needs vitamin B12 to create red blood cells. This vitamin is found in chicken, red meat, dairy products, eggs, and fish, but not in plant foods. Most people get plenty, but super-strict vegetarians who don’t eat any non-vegetable foods are at risk for a deficiency of vitamin B12 and anemia. 

The solution is to take a daily nutritional supplement that contains at least double the Daily Value of B12 (six micrograms).

Keep in mind that baby’s health depends on the mothers way of getting the proper amount of vitamins, so pregnant women can’t afford to skimp. Hence, pregnant women should make sure that they get enough of the nutrients every day.

Vitamins for Seniors: The Anti-Aging Pill

Every heard of the anti-aging pill known as vitamins? If not, read this article.

Vitamin Supplements as Anti-Aging Pills

Some health experts believe that vitamins may be the single most effective way to lengthen life.  In the largest biological study of human life and death, health organizations today reviewed the habits and histories of more than a million people over 40 years and found that death rates were significantly higher among those who did not take vitamins or health supplements.

Mortality rates dropped as vitamin intake was increased, and researchers concluded that vitamins warded off heart disease and stroke and helped prolong life. With this, experts say that vitamins are the closest thing to an anti-aging pill.

 

Vitamins Applicable for Seniors

Vitamins are powerful as a drug and should be prescribed and used as carefully as any other drug. However, dangers may come when excessive intake is manifested. Especially for seniors, high doses of certain vitamins may cause serious health problems such as kidney damage, liver destruction, heart problems, etc.

Keep in mind that as people get older, the signs of aging can hamper the growth of new cells, hence, the body is vulnerable to diseases. That is why certain vitamins are prescribed or advised to seniors for proper nourishment.

For instance, as you get old, you will loose the abundant production of elastin and collagen in the skin, hence, wrinkles appear. But with the help of vitamin C, an antioxidant, your body will be able to produce collagen and elastin, which maintains skin elasticity and strength.

Generally, vitamin supplements that are fit for seniors are those that help in maintaining normal cell growth and repair. This is because one of the major signs of aging is the weakening production of cell growth. That is why older people acquire white hair, wrinkled skin, and memory lapses.

Vitamins C and E, which are antioxidants, counteract the destructive matters known as free radicals’ Health experts say that the damages caused by these elements may promote cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

Vitamin D is vital for healthy bones. As people grow older, they lose the bone density in their bodies. And when people lack calcium, bones tend to consume their mass faster than before. Hence, bones become fragile and weak. This is when osteoporosis sets in.

So what can these fitness concepts tell you?

Why should older people take vitamins?

Think about the years of your future. A man or woman of 50 can look forward to a quarter-century of life. And the longer you live, the longer you can expect to live.

Consider some statistics: The life expectancy for the average American male is 73 years; for the average female, 79 years.

Yet a man who reaches 65 can expect to live another 16 years. If he makes it to 85, he can look forward to another 6 years. A 65-year-old woman has a life expectancy of 19 years; an 85-year-old woman, seven years.

Most senior of citizens are increasing in numbers even more rapidly than the youngsters between 50 and 75. And as the world heads for another century, youth may still be served.

But quality of life may be far more crucial than quantity.  Living well, not simply surviving longer, is our ultimate goal. Today’s men and women over 50 can actually get healthier as they grow older.

With the help of vitamins, people can easily combat the signs of aging. Health experts say that they have seen men and women in their seventies become more fit and vigorous than ever been before.

However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that vitamins can cure all that ails you. Experts have not yet discovered the fabled Fountain of Youth, nor did health practitioners ever set out to do so. There isn’t any vitamin supplement made to stretch your way to eternal youth.

But these vitamin supplements have helped many older people look and feel better than before. The kind of vigor that vitamins bring to people are totally unmatched by any forms of anti-aging items.

And even though health experts can’t guarantee that regular intake of vitamin supplements will add years to your life, it does hold the rich promise of adding life to your years.

Illnesses Caused By Vitamin Deficiencies

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is important for the eyes and the immune system. It is found in milk, eggs, liver, orange and red fruits, palm oil and leafy vegetables. Deficiency in Vitamin A result to blindness and ailments like measles, malaria and diarrhea.

Vitamin B

A symptom that a person lacks Vitamin B is when his health is altered or is slowly being diminished. This is primarily because Vitamin B is responsible for so many activities in the system such as transmitting the nerves, cellular differentiation, heart pulse rate, digestion, muscular contraction, brain function, energy production and through processes.

A person who lacks Vitamin B may experience one or more of the following symptoms:

ADD and inability to concentrate, easily irritated

Chronic Exhaustion

Chronic Fatigue

Crying spells and hard time to cope

Easily agitated and frustrated

Feeling of uneasiness

Fibrillation

Inability to sleep

Indigestion

Heart arrhythmias

Heart palpitations

Mental Problems

Nervousness

Paranoia and fear that something terrible will happen

Rashes

Restlessness

Soreness

Thoughts of Dying

Tingling in fingers and toes

Tingling in hands

Deficiency in Vitamin B comes when you lease expect it and can create serious problems in your health. Medical studies show that there are detectable signs that the individual is experiencing deficiencies.

When vitamin B deficiencies turn out to become long-lasting or chronic, there are side effects. This includes troubles with the persons adrenal glands and system. 

Vitamin C

Lack of Vitamin C results in scurvy. In adults, the lack or deficiency is rooted from a low diet of Vitamin C. Take for example that fact that people develop the deficiency when they only eat food such as tea, toast, dried meat and canned vegetables.

Pregnancy, surgery, breastfeeding and burns can also increase the requirement of the body for Vitamin C as well as its deficiency. Smoking also increases the Vitamin C deficiency for 30 to 50%.

There are rare cases of scurvy in infants but this still happens because the breast milk that is supplied to them doesn’t have enough Vitamin C to sustain them. There are also infant formulas that aren’t fortified with such vitamins.

For adults, a few months of a diet containing low Vitamin C can result in bleeding around the gums, under the skin (Specifically the hair follicles which appear as bruises) and through the joints.

Symptoms of Vitamin C deficiency for infants include pain during movement, loss of appetite and irritability. They also don’t gain weight as normal infants do. They have impaired bone growth and anemia and bleeding may also occur.

Scurvy is diagnosed depending on the symptoms of the individual. Conducted blood tests only detect low levels of Vitamin C. The treatment for scurvy is the intake of Vitamin C supplements on a daily basis. This is also the same treatment for those who are suffering from anemia.

Vitamin D

Deficiency in Vitamin D is rooted from inadequate dosage of the Vitamin alongside inadequate exposure to the sunlight. The disorders limit the absorption of the nutrients in the body and the conditions can’t fix the metabolites like the kidney or the liver.

Deficiency in Vitamin D results in bone mineralization making these softer than the norm. Rickets may occur in children and osteomalacia in adults. These contribute to osteoporosis.

Rickets is a childhood disease that is defined as the impeded growth or deformity of the bones. Osteomalacia is a disorder where the bones become thinner and occurs in adults. The muscle becomes weak and the bones become fragile. Osteoporosis is the condition wherein the bone mineral density is reduced making the bones more fragile.

Rickets is a major health problem in the United States. This is the very reason why Americans are encouraged to drink milk. In fact, many celebrities, athletes and political icons have rendered their services in the ‘Got Milk’ ad to make drinking milk look cool and appealing to the public.

Lack of Vitamin D is also associated to the susceptibility to other diseases like tuberculosis, cancer, high blood pressure, sclerosis, chronic pain, periodontal disease, seasonal affective disorder, depression and schizophrenia.

Therefore, the best way for any individual to avoid these mentioned ailments is to make sure that they get the required dosage of Vitamins A, B, C and D on a daily basis.

Anti-Cancer Vitamins You Should Know About

Vitamins are highly essential in the maintenance of the body's health and their uses can’t be discounted.  They prevent many diseases and can actually improve your health, affecting not only your body but also your mind. 

More importantly, they also help prevent one of the most feared diseases in the world, cancer. 

Here are some of the vitamins that are known for their cancer fighting properties:

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is also known as ascorbic acid and was first discovered to help fight scurvy.  Recently, it has been thrust into the limelight once again because of its purported anti-cancer properties.

In a study by Dr. Mark Levine of the National Academy of Sciences, Vitamin C showed some promise in fighting cancer.  In the study, the team used the vitamin to see how it would affect cancer cells.  The lab tests showed that Vitamin C seemed to increase the production of hydrogen peroxide.  This destroyed the cancer cells but didn’t affect the healthy cells.

In order to achieve this effect, the vitamin had to be administered in very high doses, which meant it had to be injected through an IV.  If that sounds like good news, don’t celebrate yet. 

According to Levine and his team, this doesn’t show the direct link between Vitamin C and cancer.  It only shows that Vitamin C is essential in increasing the production of hydrogen peroxide, a substance that can’t be injected directly into the body.  Furthermore, the test was conducted on human cancer cells and not actual patients. 

It is still too early to make any conclusions about Vitamin C as an anti-cancer vitamin and it still can’t be used on patients.  However, it's good to note that the vitamin is currently being used in tests on people for a new project.  For this, we will just have to wait and see.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is an antioxidant and if new studies are confirmed, an anti-cancer vitamin as well.  Vitamin D seems to help reduce the risk of breast cancer as well as ovarian cancer.  In high doses, it could be instrumental in reducing risks of colon cancer as well.

In a study presented to the American association for Cancer Research, Vitamin D seems capable of lowering a woman's chances of developing the abovementioned cancers.  They believe this is due to the flavonoids contained in foods rich in Vitamin D. 

It still isn’t known how flavonoids (and the fact that the vitamin is an antioxidant) work, but researchers say it must be because these chemicals are anti-estrogenic.  Estrogen has been linked to breast cancer in the past.

Know the Benefits of Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a major player in ensuring the body's health.  It is a member of the fat-soluble group of vitamins which means that it can be dissolved and stored by our body's fat deposits.  Is the only vitamin that the body can produce with adequate exposure to sunlight. 

Vitamin D may also be obtained from food.  The form of this vitamin that comes from plants is called ergocalciferol (also referred to as Vitamin D2).  From animals, it is called cholecalciferol or Vitamin D3.  Vitamin D has key benefits to the body.  They include:

Calcium absorption

Vitamin D is a very important element for building strong, healthy bones.  In the intestine, Vitamin D helps the body absorb dietary calcium, the ingredient that promotes that hardness of our bones.  With Vitamin D, whatever calcium we take into our body is utilized properly.  Vitamin D also benefits the teeth and gums. 

Disease prevention

Since Vitamin D helps in the absorption of calcium necessary to proper bone growth, it helps prevent the bone-deficiency disease called rickets in children.  Vitamin D also helps prevent osteoporosis, a debilitating bone disease characterized by the decrease in bone density.

Vitamin D has also shown to be very beneficial to the health of the muscles.  In a 2003 study that appeared in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings, patients who suffered from chronic musculoskeletal pain had a Vitamin D deficiency. 

There is also some potential showing Vitamin D's capability to help prevent diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis and Type 1 diabetes.  The results in studies published in 2004 are suggestive at best, but researchers believe it might hold some promise. 

Vitamin D helps boost the immune system and may help prevent inflammation, which probably explains its role against arthritis.

Vitamin D's benefits against cancer

New research suggests that Vitamin D may be beneficial against certain cancers, such as prostate, colon and breast cancer.  Blood tests conducted by researchers on the subject over a period of time showed that the lower the Vitamin D levels are, the higher the risk of cancer. 

The vitamin's active form is capable of initiating important responses in the body.  One of these is the regulation of how cells grow and proliferate.  When uncontrolled, both these processes result in cancer.  Again, the evidence is still suggestive and more studies have to be conducted.

You’ll find extra Vitamin D in foods like salmon, sardines and mackerel.  It's also found in cod liver oil and fortified foods like milk and cereals.

Tips for Buying Vitamins Online

Buying your supply of vitamins online is a convenient way to ensure that you meet your daily requirements.  Not only do you get access to the different supplements you need without leaving your home, you also learn important information and medical updates. 

However, not every site that offers vitamin supplements online is safe and reliable.  Furthermore, not every vitamin product sold on the internet is safe or effective.  If you want to know how to protect yourself while buying vitamins online, here are things you can do:

Find out who runs the site.

There are run-of-the-mill sites that sell vitamins online that promise miracles and instant cures.  Go to sites of government or medical organizations and search these sites for directories of reputable vitamin suppliers.  You'll get more accurate information from the sites sourced by qualified professionals and experts in the field of medicine.

If product literature is provided, find out who the source and references are.

Vitamin manufacturers often include a description of their product along with testimonials and other information to make it more attractive to consumers.  Learn to distinguish genuine scientific information from hype.  If there is an ingredient included in a product that you've never heard of before, do some research. 

If the advertisement mentions studies, it should be able to show the specific information about that particular study, where and when it was conducted and who performed the research.  This way, you can corroborate the information.

You should be able to get in touch with the manufacturer.

If you have questions about the vitamins you’ve purchased, you should be able to talk to the manufacturer or at least to the customer service and be satisfied.  It is their responsibility as a manufacturer to provide you with information and advice when you need it. 

Check their return and refund policy as well.  If you're unsatisfied with their product, you should be able to get your money back.

Be wary of too many promises.

Even vitamins have their limits so when you buy online, be careful about exaggerated claims.  Some studies can be deceptively complex and clever copywriters can twist published findings to their advantage, especially when medical terms are used. 

You might also encounter testimonials and endorsements from people with dubious training in medicine or nutrition.  The internet is awash with misleading information, so be very careful.

Conclusion

The internet can be a very important tool to help you establish a healthy lifestyle, provided you know what to look for.  Practice prudence and common sense, especially when buying vitamins online.

The B Vitamins: What You Need and Why You Need Them

There are eight separate vitamins that make up the B vitamin group.  They are known collectively as the B-complex vitamins.  There is a misconception that these vitamins have a single function and are bonded together. 

In truth, each of the B vitamins has a unique function that contributes to the overall health of the body. 

But which of these B vitamins do you need? 

Here's how to find out:

Know what the B vitamins are.

The B vitamins are also called by a different name.  Thiamin (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pyridoxine (B6), folic acid (B9), cyanocobalamin (B12), pantothenic acid and of course, biotin.  Each of them have different uses for different needs.  Here is an outline of what each B vitamin offers:

Thiamin

This B vitamin is important for blood formation and circulation.  It also plays a role in the proper metabolism of carbohydrates.  It helps prevent depression, strengthens cardiac function and promotes healthy nerves.  Do you suffer from heartburn?  This vitamin helps improve this condition.

Riboflavin

This vitamin also helps in the formation of red blood cells and assists the body in processing oxygen.  It helps in the metabolism of fatty acids, amino acids and carbohydrates.  It helps prevent migraines and cataracts.

Niacin

Niacin helps improve the appearance of the skin and lower cholesterol levels in the body. 

Pyridoxine

The body benefits from pyridoxine in many ways.  This vitamin helps in the metabolism of certain amino acids that build protein and also helps in the formation of red blood cells, neurotransmitters and proteins.  It's helpful in relieving asthma and symptoms associated with PMS.

Folic acid

Pregnant women and those who wish to become pregnant will find this B vitamin important.  It metabolizes protein and also promotes proper cell division.  It helps stabilize homocysteine levels and protects the fetus against birth defects.

Cyanocobalamin

The main function of this B vitamin is to enhance the production of red blood cells.  This is an important process that helps in preventing pernicious anemia.  It helps in DNA synthesis and its repair.

Pantothenic acid

This B vitamin helps promote the function of the central nervous system.  It improves adrenal gland functions and promotes healthy skin and muscles.  It metabolizes carbohydrates, fats and proteins.  If you suffer from allergies, this vitamin is a big help.

Biotin

Biotin is the beauty vitamin.  The intestines produce it naturally although it is also found in many foods.  This B vitamin promotes healthy hair and nails and can help correct scaly dermatitis.

Vitamins for Your Health:  Can You Get Enough from Food?

To ensure the body gets the right amount of vitamins it requires, we often take supplements in pill form, or as juices, concentrates, powders or candy bars.  Even if this is helpful in keeping the body healthy, most experts agree that the best source of vitamins is still food.  But can you get enough vitamins from food?

Yes, health experts say.  According to dietitian Sarah Schenker, who is also a British Nutrition Foundation dietician, a well-balanced and healthy diet is all that people need to get enough vitamins.  She recommends increasing the consumption of fruits and vegetables to achieve this end. 

The important thing is that the foods are carefully chosen for their vitamin-rich content and that people should go for about 5 portions daily.  If you follow this regimen, you will get enough vitamins from food and no longer require supplements.

Extra punch

It has been found that eating foods rich in certain vitamins has an advantage.  There are certain extra benefits such as antioxidants found in one food that aren’t available in a single supplement. 

One small apple, for example, has enough antioxidant effects to equal that of a Vitamin C mega dose; that's 1,500mg of the vitamin all packed in a single fruit.  You get chemicals that are anti-carcinogenic, anti-allergenic, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory all in one food.

Starting early

It's best to begin eating a healthful, balanced diet early in life, not only because it helps develop good eating habits but also because some vitamins and minerals are best ingested during the developing years. 

Calcium, for example, is best taken during the teen years and the early 20s.  This is the best period to protect the bones against osteoporosis later.  Supplements may not be enough to correct a calcium deficiency developed during youth.

How much do you need?

The body only needs small amounts of the essential vitamins each day.  Getting them isn’t the question, since there are plenty of sources available.  The concern is how to ensure that the body receives the right balance for the body's benefit. 

It is a known fact that prolonged deficiencies in vitamins and minerals can lead to certain conditions and diseases.  Conversely, getting too much can be toxic to the body.

Extra help

There are people who need extra help from vitamins in the form of supplements.  People with certain illnesses like cancer and alcoholism or those who are malnourished need extra help. 

Vegans and people who don’t get enough sunlight also need to take supplements.  Pregnant women or those who are planning a pregnancy should also not rely on food alone to get their daily vitamin requirements.

Are You in Danger of Vitamin Overdose?

Vitamins are good.  They are an essential component to many of our body's functions and processes and they contribute to our health.  That's why we take them as pills, power juices and energy bars. 

We even have cosmetics and body care products enriched with vitamins.  So how can anything good be bad?  Is it possible to get too much of a good thing?  More importantly, can you overdose on vitamins?

When a good thing is a little too much

Unfortunately for health conscious people, taking too many vitamins at very high doses can have some unwanted consequences.  Too much can actually be toxic to the body.  This is the reason why health agencies issue RDAs or recommended daily allowances to regulate the doses of vitamin intake. 

The RDA is the average amount a person needs in order to meet his daily vitamin requirement.  Even with an RDA, vitamin needs also vary depending on age, gender and other conditions such as a pregnancy or certain illnesses.

Symptoms of vitamin overdose

Water-soluble vitamins include Vitamin C and the B group while fat-soluble vitamins include vitamins A, D, E and K.  Of these, water-soluble vitamins are probably the easiest to dissolve and get rid of, while fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the body's fat cells.  These are the symptoms of overdose for the following vitamins:

Vitamin C

Overdose of this vitamin causes stomachaches, stomach upset or diarrhea, nausea and renal colic.  It was thought that too much Vitamin C caused kidney stones, but there is little evidence to support if that’s true.

Vitamin B1 or thiamine

If you overdose on this vitamin, you increase your risk of developing hypotension (low blood pressure), headaches, body weakness, cardiac dysrhythmias and convulsions.

Vitamin B2

Overdose causes a yellow-orange tinge in the urine.

Vitamin B3 or niacin

Causes headaches, diarrhea, vomiting, wheezing, flushing and pruritus.  If toxicity is chronic, it can cause jaundice and abnormal functions of the liver.

Vitamin B6 or pyridoxine

Overdose of this vitamin leads to burning pains, clumsiness, paralysis and numbness.

Vitamin A

The RDA for Vitamin A or retinol is only 5,000 IU per day.  If you take 25,000 IUs, expect your feet and the palms of your hand to turn a pale yellow orange.  Overdosing on Vitamin A can also cause blurred vision, hair loss, headaches and liver damage.

Vitamin D

Overdosing on the sunshine vitamin can lead to calcium buildup, which interferes with muscle functions.

As you can see, vitamin use is only beneficial up to a certain point.  Always keep the recommended dosage in mind to avoid overdose.

Standards You Should Consider in Choosing Multivitamins

The daily hazard of working too hard and eating too much can lead to our body’s abuse, and now that millions of the worlds population prefers burgers and pizzas over veggies is becoming an important yet an ignored issue.

However, since the development of various multivitamins over the years people have become conscious of the importance of nutrients.

Since multivitamins have received world-wide recognition it is hard to determine which vitamins to choose. This is why it is important to take note of the contents of your food supplements.

Before deciding on what to buy, you must know first what you need? Some multivitamins have specifications, while others are general. Try to look for the supplement that is complete, reliable, tested, and of course natural.

A multivitamin supplement is complete if it has essential fatty acid formulas in it and about 30 vitamins and minerals. Bear in mind that the common vitamins and minerals that you must always look for are: Vitamins A, B12, C, D, E, K, Iron, Magnesium, Calcium and Folic acid. For decades these have been the fortitude of strong and healthy body.

You should note that for a complete multivitamins to be reliable there must be an approval from the food authority. It will only be approved if it has gone through laboratory tests, which will validate the composition of the supplement. You must make sure of the multivitamins reliability because supplements can either make you strong or give you side-effects.

Remember aside from these three you must also consider if there are chemicals in the vitamins. Although some multivitamins make use of chemicals, it is still better to purchase a natural supplement for the simplest reason that it is safer.

Wouldn’t you be afraid to take a mercury-and-lead enriched multivitamin? This is why pharmaceutical companies are subject to different types of scrutiny, to assure consumers that they are getting what they’ve paid for.

Other than this, experience will also dictate what multivitamins are suitable and comfortable for your body. If within 30 days you feel like the supplement aren’t doing well, better stop taking them.

Though food supplements aren’t medicinal cures it is worth taking note that multivitamins energize the body. If what happens is otherwise see your doctor.

These are easy guidelines that will help you choose which of the thousands of multivitamins supplements available on the market are effective. Remind yourself of these simple guidelines so as to keep diseases away and welcome a whole new healthy life that you will cherish for the rest of your life.

Where to Find the Cheapest Cost of Vitamins

Since many are becoming aware of how important taking care of our bodies are, different multivitamins came onto the market claiming the best effects and the safest nutrients. Some are quite expensive though. No need to worry because through the internet you can purchase cheap but effective supplements.

Nowadays, the cost of vitamins has decreased since competition has increased and generic products are on the loose.

The internet offers a vast resource of cost-friendly vitamins. You can check out websites like that of VitaCost to see their price list. For $30 you can get the best vitamins on the market. However, you must consider other factors such as the reliability of the website.

Note that there are so many scammers lurking around the net so you’d better validate the website.

How to validate?

Well, it is simpler than ABC. All you have to do is to look for contact information and persons-in-charge. When viewing such websites look for the telephone and fax numbers and, if available, the companies addresses. Afterwards verify the number so as to ascertain that the company really exists.

You can also search for the company in the yellow pages. Another means to validate the company is through looking at the about page of the site for the company’s history.

Then, go through the net and check such information. Although there seems to be some risks in net marketing take note that it is now the trend. Upon validation you can safely order your preferred vitamins, which are sold at lower prices.

Take for example the known vitamins Carlson Norwegian Cod Liver Oil High in EPA & DHA Lemon, which can be bought at about $19 at leading pharmaceutical websites.

This vitamin is actually $37.90 on the market, see the difference?

You get the comfort of choosing the perfect vitamins for you through surfing the net in your own home.

However, if on the other hand you don’t approve of products sold on the net you can buy generic brands. Generic brands are about 65% cheaper than patented vitamins. There is no difference in the effects of generic versus patented. There’s no harm in buying generic brands, just make sure that they are authentic, by validating its content.

Remember, higher costs don’t automatically suggest the best quality. So why settle for skyscraping cost of vitamins when you can buy cheap, effective, and safe ones. These less expensive vitamins are good both for our health and wallet.

Discount Vitamins are Just a Click Away

Due to the advent of multivitamins people around the world are having the best times of their lives, coupled with a relaxed and sound mind. All of these are offered by different multivitamins. You can choose one that is best for you from the entire batch you just have to concentrate on the amount.

We can’t deny that a lot of these great and effective vitamins are very expensive some amounting to $100 per 60 capsules. Don’t be bothered by these, because as vast as the number of vitamins on the market there are marketing and pharmaceutical websites offering discounts per season.

Discounts per season? Well, a lot of on-line marketing dealers prefer giving discounts in seasons and in special offers. For example if you’ll be buying PREXAMED 17:1 (600 mg Rye Pollen Extract of 60 capsules) during the time of special and seasonal discounts, you will be able to purchase it for only $29.95 compared to the normal value $33.95.

Just take note of the contact information of the site and company that you will be doing business with. You know how easy it is to access the world wide web these days. It is better to be safe than sorry.  

Remember that you can get a discount on some websites throughout the year like on MyDiscountVitaminsOnline.com. This site offers over 300 multivitamin products ranging from food supplements to skin products.

Similar sites afford providing discounts all year long through quantity discounts, meaning buyers will get the discount if they’ll buy a certain amount.

Like Maximum Prostate with Beta-Sitosterol, most vitamins are sold for a cheaper price when bought in bulk. This vitamin which helps avoid and overcome prostate cancer ordinarily costs $24.95 a bottle, but is sold on the net at $14.50; provided that you buy three bottles.

Another sample vitamin is NUZYME, Digestive Enzymes, sold for $24.95 per bottle in leading pharmaceutical stores and on the market. This can be bought at $16.95 for two bottles each, $15.95 for three bottles each, and $14.95 for six bottles each.

Bear in mind that the options for discount vitamins are vast especially on the net. These cheaper vitamins aren’t generic products, but rather discounted in lieu of special offers and quantity.

However, of course if you aren’t buying more than three bottles you don’t need to go through the trouble of looking for discount products on the net. You can just go straight to the nearest drugstore and buy your favorite vitamins.

Do Vitamins Cause Allergies?

All doctors are likely to tell you that lack of vitamins in the body may cause diseases. For starters, coughs and colds are usually due to the body’s lack of Vitamin C. But it is really true that the vitamins themselves may actually cause allergies? It’s better to find out.

Vitamins, in their natural form, aren’t known to cause allergic reactions. But vitamin supplements may. In recent studies conducted in animals, it was found that vitamins may cause some cells, most especially T-cells to transform into a substance that could cause allergic reactions.

T-cells are the types of cells that fall under the white blood cells or lymphocytes category, and they play a key role in a persons immune system. There are certain vitamin supplements that are believed to differentiate the composition of T-cells. And when this happens, a persons allergic reaction to a particular antigen is increased.

In a separate study conducted, vitamins drops and multivitamins could possibly increase the risk of asthma, as well as food allergies, in children aged three years and below. In the said research, about 8,000 babies were gathered and given vitamins three times a week.

And by the time the children reach the age of three, about 10% of them have asthma and 5% developed allergies to certain types of food.

This particular study could prove that vitamins may actually cause allergies, especially if they are administered during infancy. But since only 10% and 5% of all the subjects have actually contracted the said diseases, more research is needed to further confirm the findings.

Vitamins are still a necessity. They are required by the body in order to enhance its functions and strengthen its defense system. Certain vitamins are even believed to slow the progression of AIDS and the HIV virus in some patients.

More often than not, using vitamins as a supplement to achieve the average daily nutritional requirements have better advantages than disadvantages. Allergic reactions are triggered only when there are antigens to stimulate them. In the absence of antigens, people should do just fine.

Diseases, on the other hand, may be contracted for a number of reasons. And these diseases could cause more health risks than a single episode of allergic reaction.

In conclusion, the proper administration of vitamins should always be observed. Because it can’t be totally removed from ones diet, it is then advisable that they are taken only after consulting with a doctor.

Do Vitamins Make You Fat?

Everybody knows that vitamins are essential nutritional supplements. It makes the body healthy and disease-free. But there’s one very disturbing fact about vitamins. And it is the fact that certain types of them, more particularly the wrong ones, may cause a person to experience decreased energy and make them fat.

Our body contains toxins that need to be eliminated so that they don’t damage the cells and cause them not to function. This is also the very reason why anti-oxidants are needed by the body, as they have the ability to eliminate free radicals.

In these same instances where vitamins and other essential minerals are required. But the choice of which type of vitamins to take is the biggest question of all. Low quality vitamin supplements may contain ineffective ingredients, which cannot be absorbed by the body.

Therefore, its value as a nutritional supplement becomes worthless. Now if the vitamin you are taking is nothing but a pill, then its contents may just add up to the toxins already present in your body rather than eliminating them. And as everybody well knows, toxins are the main components of cellulite.

Pressure packed vitamins aren’t beneficial. The types of vitamins sold in this type of packaging don’t dissolve easily after they are swallowed. Instead, they merely pass through the body as if nothing has happened. Undigested food contributes to the fats found around the tummy.

It is then very important that the multi-vitamins you take pass the strict standards set by the Bureau of Food and Drugs. Some vitamins available on the market are known to leave out the important nutrients placed on the label. And much of that is because they new consumers have no way of finding out otherwise.

There are also certain tests conducted which show that the actual contents of the vitamins don’t match what is specifically indicated. But the more important concern would be whether or not the vitamin is beneficial to the body at all, as there are some brands that actually contain impurities in the form of poisonous lead and harmful bacteria.

To know whether or not a vitamin brand is effective, consult a health professional. Also, try to observe its definite effects on you. If you feel you experience more harm than benefits when taking it, then it may be time to try a different brand altogether.

The Benefits of Fat-Soluble Vitamins

There are two types of vitamins; the fat-soluble vitamin and the water-soluble vitamin. Simply defined, water-soluble vitamins are the types that easily dissolve in water. Vitamin C is the best example of vitamins falling under this type.

On the other hand, fat-soluble vitamins are the ones that require the body to contain certain amount of fats in order for them to properly absorb their nutrients. Examples of fat-soluble vitamins are Vitamin A, D, E, and K.

Only small amounts of fat-soluble vitamins are required by the body in order for them to maintain good health. And if the body is given too much of these vitamins, they will merely transform into toxins that will eventually cause health-related problems.

In essence, there is no need to take supplements for these vitamins as the body doesn’t need them everyday. When not in use, it is merely stored inside the liver.

The main benefit of Vitamin A is to enhance ones vision. Aside from that, this vitamin also promotes bones and teeth development. Vitamin A, more particularly beta cartone, is also known to protect a person against certain types of cancer.

Foods rich in Vitamin A include carrots, potatoes, pumpkins, milk, and other dairy products.

Vitamin D is the one believed to come from sunlight. And much of that is because Vitamin D is synthesized the moment sunlight strikes the skin. This is the kind of vitamin that promotes the hardening of teeth and bones, by increasing the body’s absorption of calcium. Fish oils, margarines, and egg yolks are other good sources of Vitamin D.

Vitamin E is the vitamin that prevents cell damage. Vitamin E is a known anti-oxidant and it can trigger cell renewal. This is the vitamin commonly used in skin and aging solutions. It is also tasked to protect two other vitamins, Vitamins A and C, as well as other fatty acids. Vitamin E can be found in nuts, whole grain products, wheat germ, and liver.

Vitamin K is the one responsible for proper blood clotting. This is the one referred to as the vitamins for the blood.  Food rich in Vitamin K are green leafy vegetables and cod liver oil. Deficiency of Vitamin K in body may cause excessive bleeding.

These are what fat-soluble vitamins do for your body. While excessive contents of these vitamins are harmful, lacking them altogether is equally harmful. Make sure that your body has enough of these vitamins to keep yourself in the peak of health at all times.

An Overview of Foods High in B Complex Vitamins

Vitamin B complex is an essential group of eight vitamins that are needed for the proper function of cells in the body. Being essential, the vitamin can’t be produced by the body and thus it has to be taken from outside sources.

Deficiency in this type of vitamin can cause serious conditions that can hamper the proper functioning of life.  In these modern times, people easily pop a couple of pills to fill their nutritional requirements, but this isn’t always a safe thing to do. It is  best to take nutrients the way nature intended - through food.

Here is an overview of foods high in B Complex vitamins, according to each sub-type of the vitamin group:

Vitamin B1 or Thiamine (necessary for healthy nerves, and proper release of the energy stored in food)  like beans, egg yolk, seafood, pork, beef liver, wheat bran, peanuts, and sunflower seeds.

Vitamin B2 or Riboflavin (helps body in using energy coming form food; transports iron around the body). It is found in yogurt, whole grains, legumes, fish, vegetables (green leafy), lean meat, milk, eggs, cheese, nuts, and organ meats.

Vitamin B3 or Niacin (promotes skin health together with more than 50 bodily processes), found in fish, green leafy vegetables, milk, seeds, asparagus, legumes, cereals, liver, meat, organ meats, peanut yeast, nuts, rabbit, poultry, and coffee.

Vitamin B5 or Pantothenic Acid (maintains healthy hair; used in protein metabolism, helps in nerve function and keeping healthy red blood cells), found in whole wheat, whole rye, torula yeast, saltwater fish, royal jelly, pork, nuts, mushrooms, liver, legumes, kidney, vegetables, eggs, brewers yeast, and beef.

Vitamin B6 or Piridoxine (helps ease premenstrual syndrome, used in protein metabolism), found in walnuts, wheat germ, peas, kidneys, liver, fish, carrots, chicken, eggs, and brewers yeast.

Vitamin B7 or Biotin (also known as Vitamin H, needed for the use of glucose and fatty acids; helps maintain healthy hair and skin), found in nuts, brewers yeast, spinach, salmon, chicken breast, mushroom, eggs, cauliflower, beef liver, and cheese.

Vitamin B9 or Folic Acid (helps in the production of red blood cells, prevents birth defects like cleft palate and spina bifida), found in liver, whole grains, beans, starchy vegetables, fruit, broccoli, and spinach.

Vitamin B12 or Coalmine (used in nerve cell communication, helps form red blood cells), found in milk, fish, cheese, eggs, shellfish, muscle meat, organ meat, and  liver.

There are many foods high in B Complex vitamins and it is wise to take advantage of them. Not only do they provide people with good amounts of nutrients, they are also more enjoyable than boring pills.

Taking Advantage of Foods High in Vitamin A

Vitamin A is a very important nutrient. It is actually a group of fat soluble substances that is important to help maintain and grow healthy hair, skin, as well as mucous membranes.

Vitamin A is needed by people to see when the light is dim. It also plays an important function in the growth of bones, development of the teeth, and reproduction.

Eating foods high in Vitamin A are the best way of filling the requirement for this nutrient. Here are some foods high in Vitamin A:

Grain Products:  Ready-to-eat cereals and oatmeal.

Fruits:  Watermelon, plums, nectarine, melon, honeydew, cantaloupe, mango, mandarin orange, apricots, and pink grapefruit.

Vegetables:  Turnip greens, turnips, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, squash, pumpkin, spinach, plantain, kale, sweet red pepper, carrots, peas, mustard greens, escarole, romaine, chicory, endive, collards, chard, and broccoli.

Meats:   Lean meat, turkey, chicken liver, pork, and beef.

Milk products:  Cheese, yogurt, and milk.

The best means of obtaining the adequate amount of vitamin A is by eating a wide variety of these foods. Supplements aren’t really needed by healthy people who partake of these foods regularly.

Supplements are sometimes not advisable because they can give people too much vitamin A and cause vitamin toxicity. Thus the best way of getting vitamin A is by eating foods high in Vitamin A. It is cheaper and it allows people to get other kinds of nutrients.

It is important to get an adequate amount of vitamin A to maintain normal body functions. Individuals who don’t get enough vitamin A may go blind. Others may contract infectious diseases like measles.

Vitamin A deficiency may also make skin and hair very dry as well as the fingernails. The lack of Vitamin A may also make one susceptible to pneumonia.

Some people take too much vitamin A from supplements. This could result in a condition known as hypervitaminosis A, which is basically toxicity of the vitamin. This results in drying, itchiness, hair loss, fatigue, headache, loss of appetite, liver damage, and vomiting.

Eventually this could result in the loss of muscle coordination, blurred vision and dizziness. Too much vitamin A may also cause birth defects.

This is why it is recommended to get vitamin A from foods that are rich in the nutrient. It is healthier and perhaps more enjoyable as this can helps one partake of the gifts of Mother Nature.

What Are the Foods High in Vitamin C?

Vitamin C is perhaps the most popular vitamin. How many times have you been given advice to take the vitamin whenever you have a cold or the flu. And it is indeed true that this nutrient is a very important one.

It is necessary for several processes in the body such as the absorption of iron, maintaining healthy bones teeth and capillaries as well as the formation of collagen, an important protein that gives structure to bones, blood vessels, cartilage and muscle.

If you are wondering which foods are high in vitamin C, here they are:

Plant sources like kakadu plum, Camu Camu, rose hip, acerola, amla, jujube, baobab, blackcurrant, red pepper, parsley, seabuckthorn, guava, kiwi fruit, broccoli, loganberry, redcurrant, Brussels sprouts, lychee, cloudberry, persimmon, papaya, strawberry, orange, lemon, melon, cauliflower, cantaloupe, grapefruit, raspberry, tangerine, mandarin orange, passion fruit, spinach, raw green cabbage, lime, mango, potato, honeydew, tomato, blueberry, pineapple, pawpaw, grape, apricot, plum, watermelon, banana, carrot, avocado, crabapple, peach, apple, blackberry, beetroot, pear, lettuce, cucumber, eggplant, fig, bilberry, horned melon, and medlar.

Animal Sources like calf liver, beef liver, raw oysters, cod roe, pork liver, lamb brain, chicken liver, lamb heart, lamb liver, lamb tongue, human milk, goat milk, and cows milk.

Deficiency in vitamin C can cause several diseases and harmful conditions. The most renowned disease for people lacking in vitamin C is Scurvy, which causes liver spots on the skin, bleeding in all of the mucous membranes, and spongy gums. Advanced stages of scurvy may lead to suppurating wounds, the loss of teeth and even death. It is important to replenish the body’s supply of vitamin C because this nutrient is easily depleted.

The best way to get the right amount of vitamin C is by consuming a wide variety of foods that are high in the nutrient. Normal and healthy people don’t usually need to take supplements.

In fact, some vitamin C supplements may even be detrimental to health as they bombard the body with unabsorbable forms of the vitamin, not to mention that they just waste money since they can be easily flushed before the body can even use them.

If you want to make sure that you have enough supply of vitamin C, you don’t need to stock up on supplements. What might be better is for you to shop for foods rich in vitamin C such as those listed above.

How to Avoid Vitamin Deficiency Diseases without Taking Supplements

People know how important vitamins are and they take all measures to avoid vitamin deficiency diseases. The most popular way of doing so is by taking vitamins in pill form.

While this may address the problem in some way, it isn’t the best means of fulfilling the body’s requirement for nutrients. Natures way is still the most excellent way of avoiding vitamin deficiency diseases.

Here is a simple guide on the important vitamins to take and where to get them to avoid vitamin deficiency diseases:

Vitamin A is important for healthy eyesight and skin; may be found in liver, colorful vegetables, whole milk, butter, and eggs.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) is found in bran, whole grain, cereals, fish, vegetables, nuts, and fruits.

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) is found in vegetables, eggs, milk, and liver. Deficiency may cause cracked lips, mouth ulcers, and dimmed vision.

Vitamin B3 (Niacin) is found in meat, fish, vegetables, whole grains, and cereals. Deficiency causes weight loss, rough skin, mouth sores, pain in the tongue, diarrhea, and weakness.

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) is found in bran, vegetables, and meat. Deficiency causes mouth sores, nausea, dizziness, and depression.

Vitamin B7 (Biotin) is found nuts, brewers yeast, spinach, salmon, chicken breast, mushroom, eggs, cauliflower, beef liver, cheese. Deficiency may stunt growth of infants.

Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid) is found in liver, whole grains, beans, starchy vegetables, fruit, broccoli, spinach. Deficiency may cause birth defects, numbness, tingling of toes and fingers, weakness, mouth sores, and tongue ulcers.

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamine) is found in milk, meat and fish. Deficiency causes shortness of breath, tingling in toes and fingers, numbness, and weakness.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) is found in fresh vegetables, berries and citrus fruits. Deficiency causes scurvy, bruising, bleeding into skin, swollen gums, and gum infection.

Vitamin D (Calciferol) is found in the rays of the sun, egg yolk, and fish. Deficiency causes deformity of the spine, bowed legs, bone density loss.

Vitamin E is found in egg yolks, vegetables, fruits, nuts, cereals and whole grains. Deficiency may cause infertility and skin diseases.

The best way of getting the right amount of vitamins is by eating foods rich in vitamins. This in turn is still the best way of avoiding vitamin deficiency diseases. Nature has gifted humans with ways to maintain their health.

It is best to take advantage of the wonderful gifts of nature to keep the body healthy as well as your whole being.

 

What Are Vitamins and When Should We Take Them?

No person is too young or old to benefit from vitamins but whether there’s a need for taking vitamin supplements mostly depends on a persons health condition rather than his age.

What are Vitamins?

Vitamins are substances that can be found inside your body or in food. They can be water-soluble or fat-soluble. The latter type of vitamins can be stored inside your body; they will stay there until the body finds a use for them.

Water-soluble vitamins on the other hand are eliminated through urination if the body has no need for them. Because of this, you should ensure that your body has a ready supply of water-vitamins prepared daily for any eventuality.

What Functions Do Vitamins Perform?

Vitamins help the body in various ways. Although specific vitamins play specific functions. Vitamin A is good for the eyes while vitamin K aids in blood clotting and vitamins in general strengthen the immune system, help body organs and cells perform their activities, and facilitate the growth and development of your health.

What are the Different Vitamins?

Vitamin A   Milk, sweet potatoes, carrots, and spinach are good sources of vitamin A, and this can improve your vision and give you great-looking skin.

Vitamin B   This is actually a group of vitamins made up of B1, B2, B12, B6, folic acid, niacin, pantothenic acid, and biotin. They facilitate metabolism and the production of red blood cells.

Whole grains, dairy products, poultry, fish, meat, and seafood are all excellent sources of the B-vitamins.

Vitamin C   Also known as ascorbic acid, Vitamin C helps your wounds heal faster and protects your body from illnesses. Citrus fruits, cabbage, and tomatoes are just some of the foods rich in Vitamin C.

Vitamin D   If you are suffering from calcium deficiency, vitamin D will help you absorb as much of it as you need. This vitamin also keeps your teeth and bones stronger. Vitamin D can be found in milk, fish, and other dairy products.

Vitamin E   This vitamin is also an antioxidant, which makes it able to protect body tissues from the damaging effects of toxins. Vitamin E can be found in whole grains, egg yolks, and leafy green vegetables.

Vitamin K   As mentioned earlier, the primary function of vitamin K is to help in blood clotting. This activity is important because it helps your wounds heal faster. Leafy green vegetables and dairy products are considered good sources of vitamin K.

Take vitamin supplements only if you don’t have the benefit of a balanced diet and you’re suffering from any deficiency disease.

When Do You Need Vitamins the Most?

Everyone needs vitamins and if you have a healthy diet and lifestyle, you’ll usually get all the vitamins you need from your food. But there will be stages in your life when you’ll need more of specific vitamins.

Pregnancy   A pregnant woman’s body undergoes lots of changes because of the unborn child she’s carrying. During this stage, she has an extra need for folic acid, one of the B vitamins, as well as calcium and iron. Vitamins A, C, and D will help her absorb minerals better.

Old Age

As your age increases, your bones get older and weaker as well. To fortify your bones, you need an extra dose of calcium and vitamins can help you get as much calcium as you can from food.

If you expect work to prevent you from eating healthily, taking multivitamins will ensure that you meet your daily nutritional requirements.

How to Recognize Vitamin Deficiencies

There are times when your body will suffer from vitamin deficiencies. Here are indicators to watch out for and determine which vitamin you need.

Vitamin A   If you can’t see clearly at night and your skin appears rough or dry, you’re suffering from Vitamin A deficiency.

Vitamin C   If your wounds take too much time to heal and you’re suffering from teeth and gum problems, nosebleeds, and skin hemorrhages, you might have an inadequate intake of vitamin C.

Vitamin D   Soft bones, muscular weakness, and slow and irregular healing of fractures and kidney difficulties are all possible signs of vitamin D deficiency.

Vitamin E   If you don’t have the usual vigor you had for sexual activities and you notice problems with your heart and muscles, you could be suffering from vitamin E deficiency.

Thiamin   Known as the morale vitamin, Thiamin deficiency will greatly affect your nervous system and mental attitudes.

If you’re suffering from mental depression together with gastrointestinal problems, an increased intake of Thiamin might just be the solution you’re looking for!

Riboflavin

Oily skin, digestive and skin problems as well as bloodshot eyes are just some of the indicators of Riboflavin deficiency. Riboflavin is one of the vitamins in the B family.

Cobalamin

If you’re feeling dizzy, sleepy, and exhausted for no reason not to mention having problems with your memory and mood swings, you could be suffering from Cobalamin deficiency.

Niacin

If you don’t have enough Niacin, this could lead to headaches, loss of appetite, insomnia, and even bad breath!

Of course, you should always consult your doctor for official confirmation of your suspicions.