Vitamin Benefits » Red Blood Cells

Benefits of Vitamin E – Does Vitamin E Fade Scars?

admin — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 02:00:55 +0000

Lots of people are convinced applying vitamin e oil capsules on their scars or stretch marks will help prevent or fade them. But does it really work? And how about other benefits? Read on to find out about interesting facts about vitamin E. The topical use of vitamin E oil capsules is a very popular and supposedly effective scar removing treatment. Two major studies have been conducted on this matter. The largest clinical trial published in The Journal of Burn Care and Rehabilitation

Vitamin E oil

The so called effective remedy consists of opening vitamin E capsules and applying the content on the scar. But this topical use of vitamin E does not result in scar healing scientists say. The capsules can be used for far better purposes though.

In 1986 one of the largest studies to investigate the effect of vitamin E on scars was published in The Journal of Burn Care and Rehabilitation. The conclusion: the use of vitamin E did not lead to noticeable improvement in the size, thickness or appearance of scars.

Side effects

Another study from 1999 showed no improvement either. A significant part of the scars actually appeared worse than the control group’s scars. On top of that roughly 30 percent of the patients developed an allergic skin reaction (dermatitis) in response to the vitamin E treatment.

Not only are there no scientific examples of vitamin E resulting in scar improvement, many doctors and dermatologists advise against the topical use of vitamin E on scars.

Benefits

Vitamin E has powerful natural antioxidant properties protecting the body from free radical damage. It is an important component of the immune system, adds to the creation of red blood cells and is essential for DNA maintenance.

There is significant evidence vitamin E can protect against heart disease and it is thought to slow the aging process. Vitamin E protects artery walls and keeps the “bad” low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol from being oxidized. It also supports prostate and breast health and is good for your brain.

Vitamin E containing foods

This useful vitamin is especially found in seeds, nuts, cereals and vegetables. A few examples of foods high in vitamin e are; avocado, olive oil, almonds and spinach.

By: Mike Van Lint

Fatigue Fighting Vitamins and Herbs

admin — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 00:56:18 +0000

Fatigue is mental and physical tiredness where the person has no energy or enthusiasm to do anything. Fatigue is often the result of continual illness, stress, overworking, worry or periods of emotional upheaval. It can be the symptom of many illnesses, including anaemia and infections. Chronic fatigue can be greatly improved by eating foods that increase the energy level and support the immune system. Removing the buildup of toxins from the body will reduce the energy drain and stress reduction methods may ease the symptoms. Gentle exercise will strengthen the muscles and stimulate the circulation and the production of antibodies to increase resistance to infection.

What to do about fatigue

As tempting as it is to do nothing when you feel very tired or exhausted, it is important to take action. Here is a simple list of things you can use to help relieve and reverse your fatigue.

Vitamins

The vitamins and minerals outlined below can be obtained as a part of a quality, balanced vitamin and mineral supplement. The balance of these vitamins and minerals is important as an overabundance of one can inhibit the absorption or utilisation by the body of another – thus causing a deficiency.

Vitamin A strengthens the immune system and helps to fight infections. It also plays an important role in general healing. Vitamin B1 improves the nervous system function and boosts energy. It is essential for converting food into energy and for the transmission of electrical impulses in the nerves and muscles. It can have a powerful effect on your mood and alertness. Vitamin B6 increases energy levels. It is essential for the breakdown of food and the production of energy in the body. It is also necessary for the formation of antibodies. Pantothenic acid reduces fatigue and relieves stress. It is essential for the conversion of food into energy and for the breakdown of fats. Folic acid is needed to form healthy red blood cells which are vital for energy as they carry oxygen to the muscles. It is essential for the metabolism of proteins and sugars. Vitamin C detoxifies the body and in the process makes energy more available. It helps the body absorb iron and folic acid effectively and turn food into energy. Vitamin E supports the immune system. It is a powerful antioxidant and is important for the production of energy from food.
Minerals

Calcium is needed for the muscles and nerves and improves sleep. Iron relieves fatigue that is associated with insufficient red blood cells. It is needed to release the energy in your body. It is also essential in maintaining a healthy immune system. Magnesium reduces weakness and tiredness. It is essential for turning food into energy. The nervous system relies on magnesium to work properly and it is valued for its stress relieving properties. Selenium is an anti-oxidant that reduces the energy drain caused by free radicals. It is essential in preventing a wide range of diseases. It is needed for healthy muscles including those of the heart. It boosts the immune system, increasing your ability to fight infection. Zinc assists in the detoxification of the body and also boosts the immune system. It is important for the brain and nervous system and mental alertness.
Other nutrients and herbs

Omega 3 fatty acids boost energy. Acidophilus and other friendly bacteria help to create a normal intestinal balance. This is important for improving energy if an overgrowth of Candida is thought to be a problem. Bioflavonoids enhance the action of vitamin C. Co-enzyme Q10 increases oxygen uptake in the cells and this can help to increase energy. Ginger and Siberian ginseng are herbs that if taken internally will increase your energy and balance digestive and hormonal systems. Ginger, red ginseng root, cardamom seed, artichoke leaf and gentian root are herbs for the digestive system. Digestive strengthening herbs increase your ability to digest food to release the energy from the food that you eat. Mate and green tea can give a temporary boost in energy.
Rosemary essential oil (3-4 drops) added to a bath is a good pick-me-up.
Foods to eat

The following foods will help you get a boost of energy that is achieved in a sustained way and not just the short term fix that is provided by sugar and caffeine which make you feel worse later. Try not to overeat.

Plenty of fresh fruit and green, leafy vegetables. Whole grains, nuts and seeds. Chicken and tuna. You need to avoid any sources of food allergies from your diet, particularly wheat and dairy products. You also need to avoid alcohol, smoking, refined foods and sugars and caffeine. All of these foods deplete your energy levels. Remember, cakes, pastries, bread, indeed anything made from flour, are all refined foods. Eating the right foods will reduce the toxins that are put into your body, however, it is probable that your body is already overloaded and you need to cleanse your colon so that you are able to rid the body of its toxic load. Toxins are one of the main reasons for a reduction in energy. This is because the body’s resources have to be diverted into dealing with the unwanted material. To discover more about how you can deal with toxins, cleanse your colon safely and benefit from the increase in energy go to safecoloncleansing.com

While you are cleansing you also need to drink plenty of filtered water – so that the body is able to flush out the toxins.

Herbal remedies

There are two herbal remedies that can give you a more natural deep energy. You can easily make these herbal medicines yourself if you have the ingredients.

For the first, use 1 to 2 teaspoonsful of the following blend.

1 part asparagus root

1 part ginger rhizome

1 part red ginseng root

1 cup water

For the second, add the herbs according to the following.

1 part ginger rhizome

1 part cardamon seeds

1 part artichoke leaves

1/2 part genetian root

1 cup water

For each of them, place the water into an appropriately sized saucepan and bring to the boil. Add the herbs to the boiling water, turn off the heat and allow to stand for 10-15 minutes then strain the mixture.

Drink a cup of the mixture up to three times per day.

Exercise

Even if you feel tired, try to at least take short walks in the fresh air and practice breathing deep down into your lungs as you walk. Walk at least 20 – 30 minutes per day, but do start with shorter periods if you need to. The important thing is to start getting exercise. Gradually work up to longer and more frequent exercise, if possible including 20 minutes of aerobic exercise every other day.

Quit Smoking

If you smoke you need to stop. Smoking is a major drain on your health and energy and can undermine all your efforts in other areas. The Growerz.com quit smoking program can assist you to become smoke free.

Try to incorporate as many of these things into your lifestyle as you are able. Work out a plan for yourself about how you will manage your day and what you will achieve in it. While the above details are intended to be generally helpful and educational they should not be construed as a replacement for individual advice from a health professional. You should seek professional assistance if your fatigue is sudden, extreme, long-lasting or you fail to improve.

By: Dr Jenny Tylee

Lupus: Can Vitamins Help With Lupus?

admin — Tue, 13 Apr 2010 11:02:43 +0000

Lupus is an autoimmune disease where the immune system of the body produces antibodies which start attacking itself, producing inflammation of the skin, joints, blood vessels and other areas. Some of the first symptoms are similar to those common with arthritis, Lyme disease, and fibromyalgia such as swelling and pain of the joints, sometimes with a fever. Many cases also have a characteristic rash that appears across the nose and cheeks, which consists of pinkish to red coloration of the skin and raised red bumps.

The following vitamins and minerals have been shown to be beneficial in the management of Lupus and its many symptoms.

Vitamin A helps prevent eye disorders, skin disorders like acne, cancer, colds, influenza and other infections. It enhances immunity and acts as an antioxidant. Vitamin A is needed for skin and mucous membrane health, bone and teeth formation, and protein utilization. It helps slow the aging process.

The B vitamins promote healthy nerves, skin, eyes, hair, liver, gastrointestinal tract, and brain function. The B vitamins are also coenzymes involved in energy production. B complex is important for elderly people and a deficiency can mimic Alzheimer’s disease.

Vitamin C performs hundreds of functions in the body. It is crucial for the production of antibodies, strengthens connective tissues, helps reduce the duration and severity of a cold, assists with wound healing, and protects other vitamins from oxidation.

Vitamin E, or tocopherol, is an anti-oxidant that prevents the fats and fat-soluble Vitamin A stored in the body from breaking down and combining with other substances that may be harmful to the body. It also protects red blood cells from rupturing.

Zinc is required for the production of both RNA and DNA, the basic building blocks of the body. It assists the body in making the 200+ enzymes and is essential in the development and continuous normal functioning of the central nervous system. Zinc also plays a role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats.

Magnesium is essential for every major biological process. It is necessary for 300+ enzymatic reactions and is vital for calcium metabolism. Magnesium is not a trace mineral, but a major entity in our bodies.

Calcium performs numerous vital functions in the body. It combines with phosphorus to strengthen bones and is crucial for nerve conduction, muscle contraction and heartbeat. Calcium also helps prevent cramps brought on by exercise by avoiding lactic acid buildup.

Iodine is crucial for the health of the thyroid gland and is essential for the production of two key hormones that help regulate a host of body processes including resting metabolic rate, heart rate, heat production and energy levels.

Manganese is involved in protein, fat and energy metabolism. Its primary function, though, is as an antioxidant. Manganese is an essential part of biochemical reactions that affect bone, cartilage and brain function.

Copper is heavily involved in the production of hemoglobin. It is also involved in the production of collagen, the protein responsible for the integrity of bone, cartilage, skin and tendon, and elastin, a major component of large blood vessels.

Selenium is an essential trace mineral required by the body in small quantities. It is also a potent antioxidant. Selenium is necessary for proper calcium and vitamin C metabolism, helps convert blood sugar into energy, decreases platelet aggregation and helps promote cardiovascular health.

You should work closely with your physician in the management of Lupus, which includes discussing the vitamins and minerals listed above before beginning to take any of them. Some vitamins and minerals may have adverse reactions when taken in combination with certain over-the-counter and prescription medications.

Copyright 2006 PillFreeVitamins.com

By: Steven Godlewski

Fight Cirrhosis Of The Liver With Vitamins And Over The Counter Products

admin — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 16:30:23 +0000

Cirrhosis of the Liver is the chronic inflammation of the liver, which results in scar tissue replacing the normal liver tissue. The scar tissue of the liver blocks the flow of blood through the organ and disrupts the normal functions of the liver.

The liver performs more functions than any other organ in the human body. The liver is responsible for metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, fats and minerals. It removes poisons, such as alcohol and drugs from the blood stream.

The liver converts glucose to glycogen and stores it for latter use as a source of energy. It stores iron and manufactures elements essential for blood clotting. The liver also breaks down old red blood cells and converts the hemoglobin into bilirubin.

In the United States in 2001 chronic liver disease killed over 27,000 people making it the 10th leading cause of death for men and the 12th for women.

Cirrhosis is most commonly caused by alcoholism and hepatitis C, but has many other possible causes. Sometimes more than one cause is present in the same patient.

Alcohol seems to injure the liver by blocking the metabolism of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Alcoholic cirrhosis develops in 15% of individuals who drink heavily for more than a decade.

Fluid retention in the abdominal cavity is the most common complication of cirrhosis and diuretics may be necessary to suppress fluid retention. Cirrhosis can also cause immune system dysfunction, leading to infection.

The damaged liver can not clear ammonia and related nitrogenous substances from the blood. These poisons are carried to the brain and result in neglecting personal appearance, unresponsiveness, forgetfulness, trouble concentrating, changes in sleep habits, and the loss of the sex drive.

Cirrhosis is generally irreversible once it occurs. Treatment generally focuses on preventing progression and complications by encouraging a healthy diet with a reduction of salt, and abstaining from alcohol and drug intake. If the liver ceases to function or the complications of cirrhosis cannot be controlled a liver transplant will be necessary.

Common Vitamins and over the counter products can help with Cirrhosis such as Vitamin A, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Zinc, Magnesium, L-Carnitine and Coffee.

Vitamin A is an important immune system stimulant. DR. Nauss reported a reduced T-cell immune response in patients with a Vitamin A deficiency. Vitamin A deficiency may increase the risk of cancers of the lung, larynx, bladder, esophagus, stomach, colon, rectum and prostate. Vitamin A is stored in the liver and fat cells of the human body and can reach toxic levels. DO NOT take more than the recommended dosage of Vitamin A.

Vitamin B taken together as a team perform vital biological processes including aiding in the healing process for congestive heart failure and reduces fluid retention. It is required for the development of red blood cells.

Vitamin C is essential for defending the body against pollution and infection. It enhances the immune system. It aids in growth and repair of both bone and tissue by helping the body produce collagen.

Vitamin E supplies Oxygen to the heart and the other muscles in the body. Accelerates wound healing and aids in the functioning of the immune system.

Zinc is needed for healing and maintaining healthy tissues. Amino Acids are the building blocks of protein and are the vital components of skin, hair, muscle tissue, the body’s organs, blood cells, various enzymes and hormones. Zinc also has a profound influence on the body’s ability to resist disease.

Magnesium is needed to keep the proper pH level in the blood and helps in the metabolism of calcium and vitamin C.

L-Carnitine helps convert nutrients into energy.

Studies have recently suggested that coffee consumption may protect against cirrhosis, especially alcoholic cirrhosis.

Always consult your doctor before using this information.

This Article is nutritional in nature and not to be construed as medical advice.

By: David Cowley

The ABCDE Of Vitamins

admin — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 02:13:14 +0000

Vitamins are indispensable to human metabolism. Vitamins are present in small quantities in food and sometimes, the human body produces them. Vitamins can also be artificially created. We all need vitamins; if we don’t have enough vitamins in our diet, we run the risk of developing vitamin deficiencies that can ultimately lead to serious

ailments. If you are looking for the best diet for life it should include the food sources for each of the vitamins mentioned below.

Vitamin A: The Vitamin for the Eyes

A fat-soluble vitamin, vitamin A plays an important part in eyesight, helping us to distinguish things around us when there isn’t enough light. Vitamin A also contributes to the creation of skin, hair and mucous membranes and keeps them in good condition. Vitamin A strengthens the immune system and it is also connected with the development of bones, teeth, and epithelial cells, the cells situated on the inside and outside of body cavities such as the nose, mouth, throat, lungs, stomach, intestines, urinary tract.

Sources: Foods that contain high levels of vitamin A include orange and yellow vegetables and fruits (e.g., nectarines, cantaloupe, carrots), spinach, broccoli, butter, eggs, milk, fish oil and liver (beef, pork, chicken, turkey, lamb).

Vitamin B: The Vitamin for Metabolic Activities

Vitamin B consists of several vitamins: B1, B2, B6, B12, biotin, folic acid, niacin and pantothenic acid. The B vitamins have an essential role in the human metabolism. They are responsible for transporting red blood cells, which contain oxygen, throughout the body. The B vitamins also have a major role in the process of protein synthesis and creation of energy.

Sources: Vitamin B is present in whole grains (e.g., oats and wheats), peas, beans, leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, seafood, eggs and dairy products such as milk and yogurt, and meat. A type of bacteria residing in the large intestine is also capable of producing some types of B vitamins. Vitamin B deficiency is responsible for the occurrence of the so-called “Beri Beri” disease. Symptoms of vitamin B deficiency include weak muscles, cracked lips and malformed red blood cells. Vitamin B deficiency can affect a person’s normal growth and can create problems in the nervous system.

Vitamin C: The Antioxidant Vitamin

Vitamin C is also called ascorbic acid. It is a water-soluble vitamin with antioxidant properties. Vitamin C plays a key role in collagen production. Collagen is a type of protein that provides strength in the case of bones, cartilages, ligaments, tendons, muscle, teeth and blood vessels. Vitamin C helps keep the gums and muscles in good shape. Vitamin C is also responsible for accelerating the healing of various wounds. Vitamin C also prevents fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A and vitamin E, and other fatty acids from oxidizing.

Sources: High levels of vitamin C are present in citrus fruits (e.g., orange, lemon) and in other fruits (e.g., cantaloupe, strawberries) and vegetables (e.g., broccoli, tomatoes, cabbage). To keep your skin healthy, have enough vitamin C in your diet. Deficiency in vitamin C can lead to poor wound healing and, in extreme cases, a disease known as scurvy.

Vitamin D: The Bone Vitamin

A fat-soluble vitamin, vitamin D aids in the process of calcium and phosphorous absorption from the intestine and in bone formation. Vitamin D regulates calcium movement from bone to blood and the other way around. Vitamin D also contributes to the development of strong teeth and bones as it helps the body absorb calcium.

Sources: Egg yolk, milk and fish liver oil are rich sources of vitamin D. In the presence of sunlight and ultraviolet light, the body can synthesize vitamin D.

Vitamin D deficiency causes weak bones. However, too much vitamin D in the body can also be toxic, causing appetite loss, nausea, weight loss, headaches and calcium deposits in the kidneys.

Vitamin E: The Vitamin for Oxidation

Vitamin E is a valuable anti-oxidant that prevents oxidation in body tissues, contributes to red blood cell formation and protects the lungs from polluted air.

Sources: Whole grains, wheat germ, cereals, bread, nuts, seeds, leafy green vegetables, egg yolks and sardines. Vitamin E deficiency can lead to diseases like diabetes, cancer, heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease.

By: Deborah Prosser