Health and Wellness
This article states vitamin names, sources, and effects on the body. To help point out this information, the vitamin names are bold, the asterix precedes *lists of sources, and the vitamins effects are underlined.
(Click here for a vitamin name, source, and effect summary table)
Nutrition: Names, Actions, and Sources of Major Nutrients and Vitamins
Since childhood, I have had an intense interest in gardens, vegetables, and vitamins. Growing up, I can remember going with my mother through the woods in our backyeard to the field where she grew a large garden. Although I was a child, and it may seem bigger in recollection than it may have actually been, it appeared near 30 fy by 30 ft in area. Once there, we would gather green beans, radishes, onions, strawberries, spinach, carrots, tomatoes or squash. My mother would lead me down the rows as I skipped along and sampled the ripe treasures behind her. Turning around once in awhile, she would happily scold me for eating more green beans than I was carrying. It was then that I grew an appreciation for what I later came to know as a main source of vitamins.
As I grew older, I began asking my mom which vitamins were in which foods. Then I would ask, "what is that vitamin good for?" and she would always answer, "well, it is good for your skin," or, "it helps protein". Satisfied with this knowledge but never really registering its complete effects, I would nibble at it and imagine some sort of transformation in my body; like my body was smiling.
But with my mother there to provide answers, I never took the trouble to learn the vitamins or and their relationships to each other. Now that I'm in college, I know what to eat when I go to the dining hall, but I wonder about the nutritious content. Even though I know to balance darky, leafy, green foods with whole grains, yellow and orange fruits, and proteins such as tofu, fish and legumes, I am still curious about which vitamins they have, nutrients, and their chief functions. For this reason, I have decided to explore and record protein, fats, carbohydrates, fat-soluble vitamins, and water soluble vitamins, as well as their effects on physical health.
Recently making the choice to be a vegetarian, I have to monitor my protein intake more consciously. Since October of 98 I have been eating tofu in place of red meat, chicken, and pork products. I made this decision after reading an article that linked hormones to cancer. In order to increase profit, many cattle ranches use hormones as expedients. I had also heard that nuclear test sites were often near cattle ranches and a lot of the radiation affected the cows through air, water, and grass. Anyway, I also saw this elimination as a way to decrease the amount of fat intake in my diet. This reduces exposure to saturated fats and cholesterol, which would reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers. It also decreases the amount of pesticides or other contaminants I eat.
Many combinations of *grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and foods with animal protein can give vegetarians healthy doses of protein. Grains such as *whole wheat, oats, rye, brown rice, and buckwheat can be combined with legumes including *soybean products, chickpeas, lentils, bean sprouts, and peanuts. They can also be combined with *nuts and seeds, for example, *sesame seeds, cashews, and sunflower seeds. The former three protein groups may be joined with animal protein foods like *milk, yogurt, cheese, and eggs; however, these foods can stand by themselves.
Proteins are known as the basis of body structure because they form important parts of the body's main structural components; muscles and bones. "All meat and other animal products are sources of complete proteins. These include *beef, lamb, pork, poultry, fish, shellfish, eggs, milk, and milk products." Complete proteins supply all the essential amino acids in adequate amounts. "Protein in foods (such as grains, fruits, and vegetables) are either low, incomplete protein or lack one of the essential amino acids. These food sources are considered incomplete proteins". Incomplete sources have to be combined to receive the benefit of a complete protein. Protein also form important parts of the blood, enzymes, some hormones, and cell membranes. They do this using the amino acids as building blocks.
Most Americans consume more protein than they need each day. Protein consumed beyond what the body needs is synthesized into fat for energy storage or burned for energy requirements. Consuming somewhat above our needs is not harmful, but it does contribute fat to the diet because protein-rich foods are often fat-rich as well.
The fats stored in your body represent usable energy; they help insulate your body, and they support and cushion your organs. Fats in the diet help your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins, as well as add important flavor and texture to foods. Fats are the major fuel for the body during rest and light activity. Two fats, linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid, are essential components of the diet; these are found in polyunsaturated acid. *Sunflower, corn, and safflower oils contain mostly polyunsaturated fatty acids. Certain forms of these fatty acids have quite a positive effect on cardiovascular health.
By eating omega-3 fatty acids in *fish, one reduces the tendency of blood to clot, decreases inflammatory responses in the body, and raises levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or 'good' cholesterol.
Carbohydrates are used for fat utilization, energy, and provide the glucose vital for certain brain functions. To provide energy, carbohydrates fuel cells in the brain and other parts of the nervous system and in blood. They also keep proteins from being used for energy needs, so they can be used instead primarily for bodybuilding functions.
Carbohydrates can be classified into two groups: simple and complex. *Table sugar, honey, fructose, glucose, and corn syrup are simple carbohydrates and contain only one or two sugar units in each molecule. Complex carbohydrates are found primarily in grains and grain products *(flour, break, pasta, rice, corn, oats, and barley), potatoes, and legumes.
Vitamin A, a fat-soluble vitamin, helps prevent infection, helps the eyes adjust to changes from bright to dim light and is needed for healthy skin and mucosal tissues, such as the inside of the mouth and lungs, bones and teeth. These vitamins are metabolized along with fat in the body and require fat for absorption in the gut. The fat-soluble vitamins may be stored in large amounts, and this gives them the potential to cause toxicity if consumed in high amounts. Deficiencies are rare in adults but may be seen in children. Megadosing of fat soluable vitamins, except where indicated by a medical professional, is potentially dangerous and should be avoided. Two of the fat-soluble vitamins, A and D, have hormone like actions, causing specific cells to increase or decrease the expression of certain genes. This vitamin is found in *liver, whole milk, butter, egg yolks and dark green, yellow, and orange vegetables and fruits. It is also a key vitamin antioxidant, which means it helps preserve healthy cells in the body.
Vitamin D, the second fat-soluble vitamin, regulates calcium and phosphorus absorption necessary for strong bones and teeth. It also prevents rickets. This vitamin can be found in *tuna, salmon, and egg yolks. **Sunlight on the skin also produces vitamin D.
The third fat-soluble vitamin, Vitamin E, is found in *vegetable oils, whole grains, nuts and seeds, green leafy vegetables, asparagus, and peaches. Its function is to protect and maintain cellular membranes by protecting normal red blood cells. It also appears to prevent abnormal changes in fatty tissues. If it is excluded from the diet, one might suffer from anemia, weakness, neurological problems or muscle cramps.
Lastly, Vitamin K is the fourth fat-soluble vitamin. Like Vitamin E, it can be found in *green leafy vegetables. Its main duty is to enable the liver to form substances that help blood to clot.
Next are the nine water-soluble vitamins, vitamin C, and the eight B-complex: thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B-6, folate, vitamin B-12, biotin, and pantothenic acid.
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is needed for healthy collagen, tendons, bones, teeth and cartilage. Collagen is a protein that holds cells together. Ascorbic acid forms and maintains cementing material that holds body cells together and strengthens the walls of blood vessels. It also serves to aid normal tooth and bone formation and aids in healing wounds. Along with helping wounds, it's needed for iron absorption. Working with other vitamins, vitamin C spares and protects vitamins A and W and several B vitamins. Vitamin C, L-Lysine and L-proline are the basic building blocks of collagen. When these vitamins enter our bodies, they form collagen in large amounts. This is necessary, as collagen must be replenished in blood vessels to remain healthy and plaque free over periods of time. The reason is simple - Lp(a) is manufacturered in the liver in response to aging vascular system and "micro-fissures" in the endothelial vascular wall. The body, in its attempt to patch up these fissures, produce cholesterol and its relative Lp(a).
Citrus fruits like *oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, lemons, and their juices-and fresh strawberries are rich in ascorbic acid. Other important sources include *tomatoes and tomato juice, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, green peppers, some dark green leafy vegetables such as *collards, kale, mustard greens, spinach, turnip greens, potatoes and sweet potatoes, especially when cooked in the jacket.
The last eight water-souble vitamins are V-complex vitamins. Three of these-thiamin, riboflavin, and niacin, play a central role in the release of energy from food. Between them, they also help with proper functions of steady nerves, alertness, maintenance of vlood, disease resistance, normal appetite, good digestion, and healthy skin and eyes. With other nutrients, they are needed for protein, fat and carbohydrate metabolism.
*Generally, foods in the meat group are leading sources of these vitamins. Whole-grain and enriched bread and cereals supply smaller but imporant amounts. A few foods are prominent sources, like milk for riboflavin. Vegetarians would supplement lean pork with *wheat germ, nutritional yeast, green vegetables, molasses, peanuts, dried peas, and fish. B vitamins and folic acid help prevent anemia. Signs of prolonged deficiency are fatigue, nervous system damage, and sore tongue.
Another important nutrient and the most important mineral element in the body is calcium. Teamed up with phosphorus, it is largely responsible for the hardness of bones and teeth. About 99 percent of the calcium in the body can be found in these two tissues. Small amounts of this mineral in other body tissues and fluids aid in the proper functioning of the heart, muscle contractions, and nerve impulses, and helps the blood coagulate during bleeding. Important dietary sources for calcium include *milk and milk products (especially cheddar types of cheese), tofu, fortified orange juice and bread, green leafy vegetables, (collards, kale, mustard greens, turnip greens, broccoli), black-strap molasses, ground sesame seeds, artichokes, and bones in fish such as canned salmon.
However, too much phosphorus and leafy vegetables that contain oxalic acid (chard, spinach, beet greens) reduce calcium absorption. Mega-doses of calcium could lead to constipation, urinary stones, or inhibition of mineral absorption though.
Moreover, phosphorus is needed to metabolize fats and carbohydrates into energy in the body. It also makes up part of all the body's cells. Along with calcium, phosphorus builds bones and teeth. Again, like calcium, phosphorus is found in such foods as *milk, cheese, and fish, but also in whole grains and soft drinks. It is present in nearly all foods.
Magnesium is another nutrient that turns carbohydrates into energy. It also helps regulate body temperature, nerve impulses and muscle contractions. It is found in foods such as *grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, green vegetables, seafood and water. Large amounts of this nutrient are lost in food processing. If not enough magnesium is acquired, neurological disturbances occur as well as kidney disorders, nausea, and growth failure in children.
Now, potassium and sodium are very much alike in their functions. They both regulate fluid in cells and deal with nerve function. The balance between them is important though. Potassium is found in *fresh ripe fruits and vegetables (bananas, potatoes), legumes (limas, peanut butter), blackstrap molasses, fish, poultry, meat, and milk, whereas sodium is found in salt, soy sauce, and salted foods. Although a deficiency is rarely seen in sodium, results woud be muscle weakness and nausea. Potassium deprivation yields the same outcome.
Iron does completely different functions, but it too can be found in *blackstrap molasses, legumes, and leafy greens. Additional sources are oysters, cereals, and dried fruit. This nutrient makes up an important part of hemoglobin, the compound in blood that carries oxygen from the lungs to the body cells. A substance that uses iron combined with protein, it also removes carbon dioxide from the cells. Women of childbearing age are one of the groups most likely to be short in iron.
Fiber is another healthy element of the body. This is not a nutrient, but it is important for stimulating the intestinal muscles, encouraging the growth of certain intestinal bacteria and regulating absorption of nutrients. Adding fiber-rich foods, such as *whole grains, pinto, beans, peas, fruits and vegetables to the diet seems to help the intestinal track. Different kinds of fiber help with diarrhea and constipation. Soluble fiber like pectin, found in many fruits, absorbs water, thickening the stool, and insoluble fiber like bran from whole grains softens the stool. Fiber may also indirectly hurry toxins through the system as well as diluting them so that there is less likelihood of developing bowel cancer.
All of these vitamins, nutrients, and elements that coincide within the human body to make its performance a healthy and involuntary one are found in nature and supplied by stores that are easily accessible. As Americans, we have this luxury, but it is very often neglected. Health deteriorates with such concepts as fast food and TV dinners. Although these products are sometimes good, they in no way compare to the feeling, psychological and physical that comes from the knowledge and choice of eating healthy organic.
The women in my family have a history of cancer. By doing this report, I hope to use it as a future reference to stay in tune with my physical health. Although I was innately aware of the benefit of eating right, I have found that is is easier to eat right when the details are clear. Using this report as a guide, I hope to achieve a more balanced diet as well as maintain my appreciation for healthy foods.
More information on Nutritional Remedies
Acidophilus
Lactobacillus acidophilus is a 'friendly' organism which helps the body fight disease and restore health. Modern research has discovered that acidophilus kills the harmful bacteria strain of E. coli in the intestinal tract. Acidophilus breaks milk sugar down into lactic acid. Bacteria which produce putrefaction and gas in the intestines cannot live in lactic acid. Acidophilus also has the unique ability to help the body synthesize, or manufacture all of the 'B' vitamins in the system. This makes it especially valuable since there is literally a host of agents which destroy B vitamins. A few are antibiotics, birth control pills, eating sugar and refined foods and drinking coffee. A diet high in red meat will destroy the beneficial bacteria, due to the concentration of antibiotics and steroids given to the animals before they are slaughtered.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar helps the body get rid of toxins and nourishes the digestive processes.
B Complex
B-complex vitamins play many roles in the human body, but primarily they nourish the brain and nervous system. A diet high in refined foods or a life full of stress puts a greater demand on the body for these important nutrients. B1 - skin, eyes, hair; B2 - nourishes the tissues of the body; B6 - mild diuretic, PMS; B12 - anxiety and depression; Folic Acid - works synergistically with B12, cell division and replication; Biotin - metabolism of protein, fats and carbohydrates, cholesterol; B3 (Niacin) - energy production; Pantothenic acid - nourishes the adrenal glands which help the body to withstand stress; PABA - works synergistically with folic acid; Choline bitartrate - helps make acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter in the brain; Inositol - metabolism of fat and cholesterol; absorption and utilization of fat.
Bee Pollen
Bee pollen is a rich source of many nutrients, including amino acids. It bursts with easily assimilated protein and lecithin, which nourish the brain and nervous system. Bee Pollen nutritionally supports the body in many ways, including assisting with vitality and a feeling of well-being. It has been used by athletes, along with Ginseng, to maintain energy and stamina.
Bioflavonoids
Bioflavonoids are nutrients which are related to the Vitamin C family. They cannot be synthesized by the body, and therefore must be obtained from food or supplements. Bioflavonoids are helpful in nourishing the integrity and strength of capillaries and cells.
Biotin
Biotin assists in the metabolism of fat and protein. It nourishes muscles.
Black Currant Oil
Black currant oil is rich in linoleic acid and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). This substance supports the body's manufacture of hormone-like substances known as prostaglandins which help regulate functions of the circulatory system. GLA assists the body with its energy processes and is a structural component of the brain, bone marrow, muscles and cell membranes.
Borage Oil
Borage oil is an excellent source of gamma-linolenic acid. It also nourishes the heart.
Boron
Boron may retard bone loss.
Calcium
Calcium is essential to strong bones and may prevent osteoporosis.
Calcium Pantothenate
Calcium pantothenate nutritionally supports the glandular system and helps promote a feeling of well-being.
Caprylic Acid
Caprylic acid is a nutrient from coconuts which helps burst yeast cells and hinder their reproduction.
Carnitine
L-carnitine is an amino acid which nourishes the heart, nourishes and strengthens muscles, and nutritionally supports the circulatory system. L-Carnitine is considered to be a "carrier" of fat to the mitochondria or "fatburning" area of the cell. This remarkable amino acid-like substance is not only necessary for the metabolism of fat at the cellular level; it is also essential in the forming of firm, lean muscle tissue in the body. Recent studies support earlier research which shows that the heart has the greatest amount of L-Carnitine of any muscle in the body. L-Carnitine has also shown to be instrumental in the metabolism of cholesterol. Some overweight people may lack L-Carnitine in their bodies. The heart produces most of its energy from fats; thus is dependent upon L-carnitine. An L-Carnitine deficiency causes extreme metabolic impairment to heart tissue. On the other hand, supplemental L-Carnitine has proved to be beneficial to heart patients.
Cayenne
Cayenne is a pepper well known for its benefits to the circulatory system. It aids the body to balance pressure levels and resist abnormal bleeding. Cayenne also nourishes the digestive system. This plant assists in the body's utilization of other herbs, when used in an herbal combination. When applied topically, it helps relieve minor discomfort.
Celery Seed
Celery seeds contain vitamins A, C and B-complex.
Chitosan
Chitosan provides a natural source of fiber and acts like other dietary fibers by benefiting the circulatory system. It also helps the body maintain normal functions of digestion and elimination. Researchers believe that if we cleanse our colon with frequent bowel movements, we can rid ourselves of these dangerous toxins, therefore reducing our risk for disease. And how do we create this cleansing process? Fiber is the most important source in reducing your chances. Chitosan is a natural dietary fiber.
Choline
Choline helps in the formation of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter, which assists brain function and health. It also helps the body break down fats effectively.
Chromium
Chromium is necessary for the body to convert glucose to energy. A U.S. Department of Agriculture study has shown that nine out of ten Americans get less than the low end range of chromium recommended by the National Academy of Sciences. Biologically-active chromium (as found in ChromaTone), helps maximize the body's efficient use of insulin. Insulin regulates the metabolism of blood sugar, lipids (including cholesterol) and protein. Studies also indicate that chromium, when combined with appropriate exercise, has very positive muscle-tissue building and toning properties.
Chromium Polynicotinate
Chromium polynicotinate is nutritionally beneficial as an appetite suppressant and for normalizing blood sugars.
Co-enzyme Q10
Studies that have been conducted on this co-enzyme in the past 40 years demonstrate that it can help maintain healthy immune and cardiovascular systems, tissues and organs, and oral health (especially the gums). It also assists the body to maintain proper weight balance.
Cranberry
Cranberry contains a compound that prevents bacteria from adhering to the walls of the bladder and rest of the urinary tract. This prevents the bacteria from spreading and eventually results in the halt of infection. Using cranberry on a regular basis may help prevent the formation of kidney stones.
Cruciferous Vegetables
Research conducted by Dr. Jon Michnovicz of the Institute for Hormone Research and Dr. Leon Bradlow of the Strang Institute, suggests that increased consumption of cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage and Brussels sprouts may reduce the risk of certain cancers, particularly breast cancer. Cruciferous vegetables contain indoles - a unique class of phytonutrients that have been scientifically shown to balance hormone levels, detoxify the intestines and liver and reinforce the body's immune system.
DHEA
DHEA is a short name for the fancier name of Dehydroepiandrosterone, a hormone normally produced by the adrenal glands, but which diminishes as a person ages. It is a precursor to male (androgens) and female (estrogens) steroid hormones. DHEA seems to increase a feeling of vitality in many people.
Enzymes
The enzymes Amylase, Cellulase, Invertase, Lipase, Protease, Glucoamylase act as catalysts for proper assimilation of vitamins, minerals, fats, proteins and carbohydrates.
Essential Fatty Acids
Essential fatty acids (EFA), sometimes referred to as vitamin F, cannot be made from the body - they must be supplied in the diet. Essential fatty acids nourish the body at the very foundation of health . . . at the cellular level. They strengthen cell membranes to fortify against the invasion of harmful microorganisms. These nutrients also help dissolve body fat and increase metabolism and energy production. Thus, they are also very helpful in a comprehensive weight management program. Essential Fatty Acids help reduce cravings for sweet and fatty foods.
Evening Primrose Oil
Evening primrose oil supplies both linolenic and linoleic essential fatty acids.
Folic Acid
Folic acid is a vitamin that stimulates the formation of normal red blood cells. Folic acid helps nourish the skin and nervous system.
Garlic
Garlic provides nourishment for the circulatory, immune and urinary systems. It aids in supporting with normal circulation, nourishing stomach tissues, maintaining normal blood pressure and aids the body's natural ability to resist disease. Garlic is a natural antibiotic and fungicide.
Germanium
This trace mineral is a potent antioxidant. It improves oxygen flow to cells, and strengthens the immune system. It has pain-relieving properties and studies have shown that organic germanium (sesquioxide) can nutritionally support the body's defense system. Many people have attributed remarkable benefits with the intake of Germanium. One woman had suffered many years with arthritis, nervous problems and a painful muscle disease called "fibrositis." She could not stand to even barely be touched because it caused her such agony. This person began taking one capsule daily of 30 mg. of germanium sesquioxide, which also had odorless garlic added. She said, "Now I'm on 'cloud nine' since taking Germanium ... and I have so much energy, I don't know what to do with it all!"
Glucosamine
Glucosamine stimulates the body's manufacture of collagen, the protein portion of the fibrous substance that holds joints together. Collagen is also the main component of the shock-absorbing cushion called articular cartilage � the white smooth surface which covers the ends of body joints � such as those in the wrist, fingers, toes, ankles, knees, hips and between the discs of the spine.
Glycogen
Glycogen is the body's natural form of stored energy. Glycogen provides the long drive of energy known as the athlete's "second wind." Stored half in the muscles and half in the liver, glycogen is enzymatically controlled for a natural time release of energy to maintain necessary blood sugar levels.
Grapefruit Pectin
Grapefruit pectin (derived from the pulp and rind of this citrus fruit) is a type of fiber which can bind toxins and help eliminate them from the body.
Grapeseed Extract
Grapeseed extract is a rich source of potent antioxidant bioflavonoids known as proanthocyanidins. Grape seed extract provides 92-95% potency, as compared to 80-84% yielded by pine bark. This means that its antioxidant and nutritional properties are far superior. According to proanthocyanidin researcher, Dr. Jack Masquelier, only grape seeds contain powerful gallic esters, dynamic ingredients in the battle against free radicals.
Inositol
Inositol nourishes the brain and helps balance cholesterol levels. It also helps the body break down fats effectively.
Iodine
The thyroid depends upon minerals, especially iodine, to function properly and to secrete adequate amounts of thyroxine and triiodothyronine. These hormones influence metabolic rate and body temperature, as well as regulate protein, fat, and carbohydrate utilization in cells.
Iron
In North America, 58% of the population consume less than the recommended daily amount of iron. Iron deficiency is the single most common nutrient deficiency in the world today. Growing children, females and athletes all have increased need for iron in order to avoid anemia. Iron is vital to healthy blood and an essential part of the oxygen-carrying hemoglobin of the blood.
Kelp
Kelp contains nearly thirty minerals which nourish the glands (especially the thyroid and pituitary). By enhancing the action of the glandular system, it helps balance the body's metabolism and rate at which it burns calories. Kelp, also known as seaweed, grows in the rich ocean beds, far below surface pollution levels. Because of its high nutrient content, this herb is reputedly beneficial for a wide range of applications. It is known to nourish the sensory nerves, brain membranes, also spinal cord and brain tissue. Kelp contains alginic acid which can help protect the body against the effects of radiation.
Lecithin
Lecithin is essential to every cell and organ in the body. It provides nourishment to the body so that the body can regulate metabolism, increase defenses and break down fat and cholesterol.
Magnesium
Magnesium helps with the absorption of calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, B complex, C and E.
Manganese
When manganese is bound or "chelated" with specific amino acids, it targets parts of the body to help metabolism. When manganese is chelated with the amino acids proline, histidine, and glutamic acid, it travels through the blood to the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is the organ below the brain which is responsible for regulating many body functions, including temperature, appetite and sleep. The chelated manganese increases the natural thyrotropin-releasing hormone secreted by the hypothalamus. This hormone, known as T.R.H., has a direct effect on the master gland (pituitary).
Melatonin
Melatonin is produced in the body by the pineal gland in the brain. Tryptophan, an amino acid found in food, is taken in by the body and made into serotonin, a neurotransmitter (conductor of nerve signals). The pineal gland takes the serotonin and makes it into melatonin, but only during the night. (The enzymes in the brain which change serotonin into melatonin are inactivated by light). Norepinephrine is another neurotransmitter which assists in melatonin production. It acts as a catalyst to melatonin production by stimulating cells in the pineal gland to begin making melatonin in the absence of light. Sometimes, for one reason or another, the body does not produce adequate amounts of melatonin for its needs. This can result in insomnia and depression, among other symptoms. The body's ability to synthesize melatonin may decrease with age.
Minerals
Trace (micro) and major (macro) minerals play a crucial role in maintaining health. It is well-established that some mineral deficiencies can be linked to physical conditions including grey hair, baldness, asthma, eczema, psoriasis, epilepsy, diabetes, arthritis and mental illness.
MSM
MSM is simply an acronym for methylsulfonylmethane, a dietary source of sulfur that naturally supports the immune system and plays a major role in the formation of enzymes and hormones that control body activities.
Niacin
Niacin is nutritionally beneficial for circulation. Niacin reduces low-density lipid (LDL) forms of cholesterol and improves peripheral blood flow.
Nicotinamide
Nicotinamide nourishes the digestive and circulatory systems.
Noni
The noni plant has many folk-remedy uses. It is fabled among the Polynesian peoples to especially help support the body's respiratory, immune, digestive, and structural systems.
Octacosanol
Octacosanol is derived from wheat germ oil and helps improve endurance and stamina.
PABA
PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid) helps assimilate pantothenic acid and nourishes the skin.
Papaya
Papaya contains an enzyme called papain which helps the body break down protein.
Parsley
Parsley is valued as a blood builder, cleanser and has pressure regulating properties.
Potassium
Potassium nourishes the heart, kidneys, pancreas, muscles and the nerves. It assists in the growth and repair of body tissues, and also helps conduct messages in the body through the nervous system. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure. There must be a balanced potassium-to-sodium ratio in the body for all systems to function at their optimum level.
Quercetin
Quercetin has been shown to help the body defend itself against harmful microorganisms.
Resveratrol
Red wine extract contains the recently acclaimed flavonoid, resveratrol. Resveratrol is found naturally in many fruits and vegetables, however, red wine and other grape products are the richest source. Recent research has linked resveratrol supplementation with enhanced immune and cardiovascular support.
Rhubarb
Rhubarb can help dissolve mucus adhering to the walls of the colon.
Salmon Oil
Salmon oil is rich in Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids. These nutrients are recognized as having many beneficial properties. They include regulating the body's production of cholesterol, and strengthening cell walls, fortifying them against the invasion of viruses and bacteria.
Selenium
Selenium is a mineral that reinforces the body's defense system.
Vitamin B1
Vitamin B1 (thiamine) has positive effects on the nervous system, mental well-being, skin, eyes, and hair.
Vitamin B2
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) nourishes skin, nails, hair, growth, reproduction and vision. The body needs more of this nutrient during stress situations.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine HCL) is necessary to metabolize B12 in the body. It helps the body release excess water and nourishes the nervous system.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is used in the production of energy and it nourishes the nervous system. Vitamin B12 supports the maturation of red blood cells.
Vitamin C
We do not produce our own vitamin C � it must be obtained from our diet. Science continues to confirm, with ever increasing evidence, the benefits of the C vitamin family to especially nourish the body's structural and defense systems. Vitamin C strengthens cells and tissues and helps build the body's defense system.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant and helps the body cope with toxic substances such as air pollution. It also helps protect the cells and increase oxygen to them. Research shows that animals who were exposed to various concentrations of ozone and took vitamin E lived longer than animals whose diets were not supplemented with this nutrient. Vitamin E strengthens the circulatory system and may help soothe leg and foot aches that occur at night.
Vitamin F
Vitamin F, also know as Essential Fatty Acids (EFA), cannot be made from the body - they must be supplied in the diet. Essential fatty acids nourish the body at the cellular level. They strengthen cell membranes to fortify against the invasion of harmful microorganisms. These nutrients also help dissolve body fat and increase metabolism and energy production. Thus, they are also very helpful in a comprehensive weight management program.
Watermelon seeds
Watermelon seeds help the body eliminate excess water.
Whey
Whey is derived from the cheese-making process, and is full of vitamins and minerals. It is also a superior protein source, with a protein efficiency rating that exceeds that of soy, wheat, and even whole milk. This means that the protein in whey is used more efficiently by the body than by the protein from these other sources.
Zinc
Zinc is essential for the health of the reproductive organs, especially in the male.
