  |
Nutrition
and You - from
Katie's Natural Way
"...lacking
minerals, vitamins are useless" says Dr Linus Pauling |
The
following information on Minerals,
Vitamist Oral Sprays, Nutrition and Herbs was complied from the sources listed
at the end of various articles, by © Ted & Kathryn Kapela.
The significance and impact that VITAMIST is having in the Nutritional & Wellness Industry
can only be realized
by knowing what VITAMIST really is!
Medical professionals, hospitals, Wellness Professionals etc. World Wide
are embracing VITAMIST - Do YOU Want a Piece of the Action?
The Vitamist Referral Plan
Special Note: The Nutritional Implications of Bariatric Surgery - Following surgery, do the patients have to take vitamin and mineral supplements for the rest of their lives? -- The answer is YES !! - - - - and Vitamist Oral Spray's are the only satisfactory answer.
These Statements and information have not been evaluated by the Food
and drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose,
treat cure or prevent any disease. Please see product label for directions
and precautions, and consult your health care practitioner before starting
any new regimen. Due to the high absorption levels found with these
peoducts, some interference with some medications may result.
Index to Topics - - Click on item
underlined:::::
1. Are Supplements
Really Necessary? - -
2. The Wellness
Medicine Institute - -
3.
Nutritional Supports and Physical Performance - -
4.
Common Result of Vitamin Deficiencies - -
5. A Common Result of Mineral Deficiencies - -
6.
Bucal Absorption vs Colloids
a.
Conversion Tables, pH info. - -
7.
Oral Sprays or "Buccal Absorption" - -
8.
What's in Pills - -
9. Herbs and Human Health - -
10.
Essential Fatty Acids - -
11.
PreNatal Multi-Vitamins - -
12. Anti-Oxidants - -
Obesity
Costs Outweigh Smoking! Aspartame - DO NOT USE
Stevia - alternative sweetener?
Vanadium
& Cancer - Medical Report
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1. Are Supplements
Really Necessary? - -
The key to health and well being is found in maintaining a proper nutritional
foundation. Excess's or deficiencies in any of the elements needed by
the body could account for many diseases. Various parts of the body
cannot be restored or rejuvenated without proper nutritional support.
The following two statements indicate the need for supplements: "In
the absence of minerals, vitamins have no function" - Dr. Mathias
Rath, MD
"Every sickness can be traced to a mineral deficiency" - Dr.
Linus Pauling, PhD
Many think that eating correctly is sufficient in maintaining good
health. But the reality is that our highly processed fast food society
makes it very difficult to follow a healthy diet. Processing and preserving
of foods for market make it difficult for our body to digest, absorb,
and metabolize the foods we eat. Consider that many of our fruits and
vegetables are picked green, before they absorb the proper life giving
nutrients, and that our soil is largely depleted of the essential elements.
Nutrient depleted soils result in nutrient depleted foods. We cannot
properly convert foods that have been irradiated, devitalized, are deficient
in vitamins, enzymes, fiber, nutrients, and loaded with additives. Because
we are not getting the vitamin and mineral nutrition our bodies need
from the food we eat, mineral supplementation is therefore required.
The importance of nutritional supplements is widely recognized in the
scientific community and among nutritionally oriented physicians.
Always remember, since every disease takes time to develop,
eliminating the disease will take time too!
"Minerals are required by the human body for a myriad of functions
including mineralization of bone and teeth, muscle function, and numerous
enzymatic reactions. Minerals are principally absorbed through the villi,
the highly vascularized projections extending from the epithelial cells
of the small intestine mucosa into the small intestine lumen. Absorption
of minerals by the small intestine is highly variable and is dependent
upon the chemical form of the mineral, the speed of passage of the food
through the small intestine, the degree of digestion of the food, and
the presence of other minerals and compounds which react with the minerals
being absorbed. Minerals bound to organic material tends to be better
absorbed than most mineral salts. Because of this, minerals chelated
(or bound) to amino acids or protein peptides (protein fragments) have
found favor as nutritional supplements for intestinal absorption.
The absorption of minerals by the small intestine mucosa is by active
(energy requiring) transport, and may occur against a concentration
gradient. The most important active transport mechanism is shared by
a group of required minerals, the di-ionic cations. These all posses
a double positive charge in solution. These minerals, all required for
human nutrition, are calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, potassium, chromium,
manganese, copper, cobalt, vanadium, tin, and nickel. Because of the
shared uptake mechanism, increased intake of one of the minerals may
flood receptor sites, and create a deficiency of one or more other minerals.
For example, a supplement taken to correct an iron or calcium deficiency
could result in a zinc or manganese deficiency. For this reason, some
nutritionists recommend taking mineral supplements together at the same
time as a multi-mineral tablet.
The latest option for mineral supplementation, which by-passes this
absorption-site competition, is the absorption of solutions of minerals
directly into the blood-stream through the buccal and sublingual mucosa
of the mouth, or through the nasal mucosa. Active uptake of minerals
occurs here as well, but does not compete with mineral absorption from
absorbed food in the small intestine. The net result is an effective
form of mineral supplementation without the risk of creating a secondary
mineral deficiency." Steve Smith, 1996
2.
The Wellness Medicine Institute -
There is so much new information
about vitamins, minerals and herbs that it is almost impossible to keep
up with it! Unfortunately, my medical colleagues don't usually offer
much help because they are notoriously skeptical about vitamins, minerals
and herbs, as well as woefully uninformed about nutrition in general.
Most people don't eat enough proper
foods. Moreover, medications, lifestyle and emotional stress drains
people of nutrients even if the ARE eating the right foods. Finally,
the food industry has radiated, refined, processed and generally altered
our foods to such an extent that we just don't know what we have done
to their essence.
As Chiropractors well know, our
body is a functional and integrated energy system. When our energy is
balanced and aligned then we are well and full of vitality. Vitamins,
minerals and herbs are some of nature's best catalysts for energy balance
and functional integration The body uses chemicals in these substances
to build and repair bones, nerves and other organs. It's extremely complicated,
and the old recommended use of vitamins, minerals and herbs no longer
reflect our changing needs for total wellness. Until recently, we had
not even known that folic acid could prevent neural tube defects (spina
bifida) in unborn babies. Nor did we know that antioxidants could decrease
heart attacks, stroke, cancers and cataracts.
There are a myriad of special circumstances
too. Smokers require extra Vitamin C, B-12 and folic acid. "Social Drinkers"
need more Vitamin C, B-12 and Zinc. People who regularly use antacid;
(Maalox, etc.) should take more thiamine and calcium. Antibiotics tend
to deplete Vitamin C and riboflavin. Women on oral contraceptives may
need more Vitamin C, B6 and E. Blood pressure medicine may deplete the
body of Vitamin B6, Zinc and calcium. Cholesterol-lowering medicine
may lower Vitamin A, B12, D, K and folic acid. Even laxatives can deplete
the body of Vitamin A, D, E, K, B12 and C.
What nutritional supplements should
people take? What are special circumstances? How do you judge a brand's
quality? How can you ensure the best absorption of the supplements that
you swallow? How can we avoid acid indigestion that accompanies even
the most expensive supplements? I urge anyone wishing answers to these
questions to investigate the "Oral Spray" line of nutritional supplements!
Injections and pills are no longer necessary because this patented delivery
system by-passes the stomach to get right into the bloodstream with
a jolt of healthful energy that our patients need to get through the
day. There is nothing else like it..
Believe me, a well-balanced diet
complemented with a comprehensive formula of ethical and quality vitamins,
minerals and herbs is what I call: "Wellness Insurance"
I would be honored to be your "Medical
Wellness Insurance Consultant". I personally believe that health is
primarily determined by personal responsibility, self value and reverence
for life.
Larry Traub M.D., F.A.A.P.
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3.
Nutritional Supports and Physical Performance - -
Several nutritional supplements
have been shown to be affective enhancers of physical performance among
athletes as well as non-athletes. These substances, called ergogenic
supplements, have been proven to enhance measurable indices of human
performance. True ergogenic substances have been shown to help accomplish
one or more of the following goals: enhancing physical performance,
reducing exercise rebound time, promoting increased muscle mass, and
metabolizing stored fat. This report outlines the use of nutritional
supplements of proven effectiveness in improving human performance.
These are natural compounds which are required for muscle exertion.
Ergogenic supplements are effective only when supported by a regular
exercise program and adequate general nutrition, and may improve performance
by 10 - 50%.
Salt (sodium chloride) is the principal
electrolyte of the human body. Adequate salt intake for optimum exercise
performance is usually by normal dietary salt intake.(1) Excessive use of salt tablets or salt supplementation should be avoided,
since excessive sodium may induce potassium excretion and loss.(1-3) Clinical trials have shown that electrolyte consumption (minus salt,
including potassium) during exercise often improves performance.(4-7) Consumption of potassium supplements has been shown to prevent
muscle cramping and heat stroke in susceptible individuals.(8-11)
The availability of carbohydrate
to muscles is a limiting factor in exercise performance and is closely
related to fatigue.(12-18) Glucose is the principal
source of energy in human metabolism. A limited supply of glucose is
stored in muscle and liver tissue as glycogen. Once depleted, the muscle
must rely on blood glucose for an energy source. Once blood glucose
levels fall below normal physiological levels, fatigue and performance
deterioration occurs rapidly. The maintenance of glucose supply to working
muscles through an effective program of nutritional supplementation
delays fatigue and prolongs performance.12-18 Blood glucose levels may also be maintained during exercise by gluconeogenesis
(the formation of glucose by the breakdown of amino acids, especially
branched chain amino acids such as valine and leucine).12-18 This energy source may account for 5 - 10% of the energy used during
long-term endurance exercise.
Amino acids, the building blocks
of proteins, are useful supplements for exercise. These nutrients serve
two important functions in exercise physiology: providing building blocks
for new muscle mass production, and preventing muscle mass loss during
periods of intense exertion. Essential amino acids are those amino acids
which are not made by the body, and must be consumed. Clinical studies
have found that increased amino acid intake tends to increase lean body
mass, strength, and muscle size. Loss of muscle mass is especially important
during the initial month of training or increased training, when protein
needs of the body may be elevated by 50 - 100%.18,19
Exercise increases the oxidative
processes of muscles, leading to increased generation of free radicals
and free radical reaction products in humans.20-26 Exercise of increased intensity increases free radical production 26 as well as increasing anti-oxidant metabolism in humans27 with exercise fatigue.20-22 All this evidence
strongly suggests the value of anti-oxidants (such as Vitamin E) in
preventing free radical damage to muscle tissue during strenuous exercise
and to delaying the onset of fatigue.
Supplementation with several of
the B complex vitamins have been shown to enhance athletic performance.
Thiamine (Vitamin B-1) resulted in consistent and significant improvements
in anaerobic thresholds, heart rates, and blood glucose levels during
vigorous aerobic exercise.26 Pantothenic acid
(Vitamin B-5) supplementation increases efficiency of oxygen utilization
for long term aerobic exertion.29
L-Carnitine is a alpha-hydroxy acid
which participates in the conversion of fatty acids in muscle tissue
to metabolic energy. Upon intense exertion, a depression of muscle carnitine
may be measured.29,30 Carnitine supplementation
in humans results in enhanced exercise performance30,31 and increased fat utilization during exercise.30,33-36
Co-Enzyme Q-10 is similar to carnitine
in that it is essential to cellular energy production. Intense or exhaustive
exercise leads to the loss of co-enzyme Q-10 from blood.37-39 Clinical trials in humans have shown increased exercise capacity,40-45 cardiac function,40-43 and lipid utilization.42-45 Co-Enzyme Q-10 has consistently shown ergogenic effects for submaximal
and maximal aerobic exercise, and appears to be effective for anaerobic
exercise as well. Ginseng root is a health tonic used for centuries
by Asian cultures.
Ginseng is useful as a performance
supplement to quicken rebound time, increase muscular strength, and
reduce oxygen requirements of the muscles under exertion.46,47
Although not directly ergogenic,
natural circulation enhancers such as oil of peppermint and garlic are
effective at increasing vascular blood flow, and hence increasing the
availability of oxygen, glucose, and cofactors to the tissues where
they are needed.
Stephen R. Smith - 12/96
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References
REFERENCES
1. Williams, M.H., The role of water and electrolytes in physical activity,
in Nutritional Aspects of Human Physical and Athletic Perjbrmance, 2nd
ed., Williams, M.H., Ed., Charles C. Thomas, Springfield, 1985,219-
2. Schamadam, J.. and Snively, W.,The role of potassium in diseases
due to heat stress, Ind. Med. Surg. 36, 785, 1967.
3. Knochel, J. P. and Vertel, R.M. Salt loading as a possible factor
in the production of potassium depletion, rhabdormyolysis, and heat
injury. Lancet, 1, 659, 1967.
4. Bucci, L.R., Nutrients as Ergogenic Aids In Exercise and Sport, CRC
Press, Boca Raton, 1993-
5. Fink, W.J., Fluid intake for maximizing athletic performance, in
Nutrition and Athletic Performance, Bull Publishing, Palo Alto, 1982-
6. Herbert, W.G., Water and electrolytes, in Ergogenic Aids in Sports,
Williams, M. H., Ed., Human Kinetics Publishers, Champaign, 1983, 56.
7. Gisolfi, C. V., Water and electrolyte metabolism in exercise, in
Ross Symposium on Nutrient Utilization During Exercise, Fox, E. L.,
Ed., Ross Laboratories, Columbus, 1983, 21.
8. Schamadam, J. and Snively, W., Evaluation of potassium-rich electrolytes
solutions as oral prophylatis for heat stress, Ind Med Surg., 37, 677,
1968.
9. Settineri, L and Allgayer, C., Utilization of potassium chloride
"per os" for the prevention of muscle cramps in athletes, in Nutrition
and Sport, Liwinova, V., Ed., Leningrad Institute of Physical Culture,
Leningrad, 1976.
10. Lane, H.W. and Cerda, J., Potassium requirements and exercise, J.
Am Diet. Assoc., 73, 64, 1978.
11. Lane, H.W. and Cerda, J., Potassium requirements and exercise, Am.
Correct Ther. J. 33, 67, 1979.
12. Costill, D.L. and Hargreaves., M., Carbohydrate nutrition and fatigue,
Sports Med, 13(2), 86, 1992.
13. Miller, G.D. and Massaro, E.J., Carbohydrate in ultra-endurance
performance, in Nutrition in Exercise and sport, Hickson, J.F.. Jr.
And Wolinsky, I., Eds., CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL, 1989, 51.
14. Pate, T.D. and Brunn, J.C., Fundamentals of carbohydrate metabolism
in Nutrition in Exercise and Sport Hickson, J.F.. Jr. And Wolinsky,
I.. Eds., CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL, 1989, 37.
15. Nagle, F.J. and Bassett, DR., Energy metabolism, in Nutrition In
Exercise and Sports, Hickson, J.F.,Jr. And Wolinsky, I., Eds., CRC Press,
Boca Raton, FL, ;1989. 87.
16. Valeriani, A., The need for carbohydrate intake during endurance
exercise, Sports Med, 12(6), 349, 1991.
17. Williams, M.H., The role of carbohydrates in physical activity in
Nutritional Aspects of Human Physical and Athletic Performance, 2nd
ed., Williams, M.H.., Ed., Charles C Thomas, Springfield, 1985, 58.
18. Wilmore, J,H. and Freund, B.J., Nutritional enhancement of athletic
performance, in Nutrition and Exercise. Winick, M., Ed., John Wiley
& Sons, New York, 1986, 67.
19. Lemon, P.W.R., Protein and exercise: update 1987, Med Sci. Sports
Exercise, 19, S179, 1987-
20. Sjodin, B., Westing, Y.H., and Apple, F.S., Biochemical mechanisms
for oxygen free radical formation during exercise, Sports Med, 10, 236,
1990.
21. Kagan,V.E., Spirichev,V.B., and Erin,A.H., Vit. E I physical exercise
and sport, in Nutri. in Exercise and Sport Vol. 1, Hickson, J.F.. Jr.
And Wolinsky, I., Eds., CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL, 1989, 255.
22. Singh, V. N., A current perspective on nutrition and exercise. J
Nutr 122, 760, 1992.
23. Dillard, C.J., Litov, R.E., Savin, W.M., Dumelin, E. E., and Tappel,
A.L. Effects of exercise, vitamin E and ozone on pulmonary function
and lipid peroxidation, J Appl. Physiol, 45, 927, l978.
24. Kanmer, M.M., Lesmes, G.R., Kaminsky, L.A., La Ham-Saeger, J., and
Nequin, N.D., Serum creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase changes
following an eighty kilometer race. Relationship to lipid peroxidation,
Eur. I Appl. Physiol., 57, 60, 1988.
25. Sumida, S., Tanaka, K., Kitao, H., and Nakadamo, F., Exercise-induced
lipid peroxidation and leakage of enzymes before and after vitainin
E supplementation. Int. J. Biochem., 21, 835, 1989
26. Lovlin, R., Cottle, W., Pyke, I., Kavanagh, M., and Belcastro.,
A.N.., Are indices of free radical damage related to exercise intensity,
Eur . J. App!. Physiol., 56, 313, 1987.
27. Corbucci, G.G.., Montanari, G., Cooper, M.B., Jones, D.A., and Edwards,
R.H.T., The effect of exertion on mitochondrial oxidative capacity and
on some antioxidant mechanisms in muscle form marathon runners, Int.
J . Sports Med, 5 (Suook, (m 135m 1984.
28. Knippel, M., Mauri. L., Belluschi, R., Bana, G., Galli, C., Pusterla,
G.L., Spreafico, M., and Troina, E., The action of thiamin on the production
of lactic acid in cyclists, Med Sport, 39(1), 11, l986.
29. Litoff, D., Schberzer, H. and Harrison, J., Effects of pantothenic
acid supplementation on human exercise, Med Sci. Sports Exercise, 17,
287, 1985.
30. Siliprandi, N., Carnitine and physical exercise, in Biochemical
Aspects of Physical Exercise, Benzi, G., Packer, L., and Siliprandi,
N., Eds., Elsevier, Amsterdam, 1986, 197.
31. Cerretelli, P. and Marconi, C., L-Carnitine supplementation in humans-
The effects on physical performance, Int. J. Sports Med, 11(l), 1, 1990
32. Marconi, C., Sassi, G., Carpinelli, A., and Cerretelli, P., Effects
of L-carnitine loading on the aerobic and anaerobic performance of endurance
athletes, Eur, J Appl, Physio., 54, 131, 1985.
33. Dragan, G,J., Vasiliu, A., Georgescu, E., and Dumas, I, Studies
concerning chronic and acute effects of L-carnitine on some biological
parameters in elite athletes, Physiologie, 24, 23, 1987-
34. Vecchiet, L., Di Lisa, F., Pieralisis, G, Ripari, P., Menabo, R,,
Giamberardino, M.A. and Siliprandi, N., Influence of L-carnitine administration
on maximal physical performance, Eur. J. Appl. Physiol., 61, 486, 1990.
35. Dragan, G.J., Vasiliu, A, Georgescu, E,, and Dumas, I., Studies
concerning some acute biological changes after endovenous administration
of 1 g L~carnitine in elite athletes, Physiologie, 24, 231,1987.
36. Dragan, I.G., Vasiliu, A., Georgescu, E., and Eremia, N., Studies
concerning chronic and acute affects of L-carnitine in elite athletes,
Physio!ogie, 26, 111, 1989.
37. Karlsson, J,, Diamant, B., Theorell. H., and Folkers, K., Skeletal
muscle coenzyme Q10 in healthy man and selected patients groups. in
Biomedica! and Clinica! Aspects of Coenzyme Q10 Vol, 6, Folkers, KI.,
Yamagami, T., and Littarru, G.P., Eds., Elsevier/North-Holland, Amsterdam,
1991,191,
38. Karlsson, J., Diamant, B,, Folkers, K., Edlung, P.O., Lunda, B-,
and Theorell, H., Skeletal muscle and blood CoQ10, in health and disease,
in Highlights In Ubiquinone Research Lenaz, G., Barnabei, 0., Rabbi,
A., and Battino, M., Eds., Taylor & Francis, London, 1990, 288.
39. Guerra, G.P., Ballardini, E., Lippa, s., Oradei, A, and Littarru,
G.P., Effeto della somministrazione di Ubidecarenone nel consume massimo
di ossigeno e sulla performance in un gruppo di giovani ciclisti, Med
Support 40, 359, 1987,
40, Yamabe, Hand Fukuzaki, H., The beneficial effect of coenzyme Q10
on the impaired aerobicfunction in middle aged women without organic
disease in Biomedical and Clinical Aspects of Coenzyme Q,,Vol- 6, Folkers,
K., Yamagami, T., and Littarru, G.P., Eds., Elsevier/North-HoIland,Amsterdam,
1991, 535.
41. Zeppilli, P,, Merlino B., de Luca, A.. Palmieri, V., Santini, C.,
Vannicelli, R-, la Rosa Gangi, M.,Caccesse, R., Cameli, S., Servidei,
S., Ricci, E., Silvestri, G., Lippa, S., Oradei, A., and Littarru, G,P,,
Influence of coenzyme Q10 on physical work capacity in athletes, sedentary
people and patients with mitochondrial disease, in Blomedical and Clinical
Aspects of Coenzyme Q10 Vol, 6, Folkers, K-,Yamagami, T., and Littarm,
G.P., Eds., Elsevier/North-Holland, Amsterdam, 1991, 541
42. Wyss, V., Lubich, T., Ganzit, G. P., Cesaretti, D., Fiorella, P.L.,
Dei Rocini, C-, Bargossi, A,M., Battistoni, R., Lippi, A., Grossi, G.,
Sprovieri, G,, and Battino, M., Remarks on prolonged ubiquinone administration
in physical exercise. in Highlights in Ujbiquinone Research, Lenax,
G.,Barnabei, 0., Rabbi, A., and Battino. M., Eds., Taylor & Francis,
London, 1990, 303
43. Zuliani, U., Bonetti, A., Campana, M. and Cerioli, G., The influence
of ubiquinone (Co Q10 )on the metabolic response to work, J. Sports
Med, 29(1), 57,1989.
44. Cerioli, G., Tirelli, G., and Musiani, L., Effect of (Co Q10) on
the metobolic response to work, in Biomedical and Clinical Aspects of
Coenzyme Q10 , Vol. 6, Folkers, K., Yamagami, T., and Littarru, G. P,,
Eds., Elsevier/North-Holland, Amsterdam, 1991, 521.
45. Fiorella, P.L., Bargossi. A.M., Grossi, G., Motta, R., Senaldi,
R., Battino, M., Sassi. S., Sprovieri, G ,and Lubich, T., Metabolic
effects of coenzyme Q10 treatment in high level athletes, in Biomedical
and Clinical Aspects of Coenzyme Q10 , Vol.6, Folkers, K., Yamagami,
T. and Littarru, G., P, Eds., Elsevier/North-Holland. Amsterdam, 1991,
513.
46. McNaughton, L., Egan. 0., and Caelli, G., A comparison of Chinese
and Russian ginseng as ergogenic aids to improve various facets of physical
fitness, Int. Clin. Nutri. Rev.. 9(l), 32, 1989,
47. Pieralisi, G., Effects of a standardized ginseng extract combined
with dimethylaminoethanol bitartrate, vitamins, minerals, and trace
elements on physical performance during exercise, Clin. Ther., 13(3),
373, 1991.
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4.
Common Result of Vitamin Deficiencies - -
While the statement "...lacking minerals, vitamins
are useless..." is accurate, mineral supplementation is the building
block for proper nutrition. Minerals are like the body of your car.
Vitamins are the fuel that makes it perform. In the old days, we used
carburetors to get fuel into the engine, a very inefficient method.
Today, computerized fuel injection extracts the most efficient use of
fuel in auto's. That comparision could be used when discussing Oral
Spray (buccal absorption) of nutrients and minerals. Oral Spray technology
delivers fuel to the body directly where it is needed, into the blood
stream in the form needed - water soluable and vegetable based. This
process also makes fat soluble vitamins act water soluble. See "Vitamins" "Herbs" "Nutrients" buttons to left for a more detailed info. See below for more
information on "Buccal Absorption".
Fat Soluble
Vitamin A: (Retinol)
Night blindness, Conjunctivitis, xerophthalmia, corneal ulcers, infertility,
birth defects, depressed immune system, bone disease, poor growth, acne,
dermatitis, hyperkeratosis ("goose flesh") & increased Cancer risk.
Vitamin D:
Rickets, bow legs, knock knees, osteoporosis, arthritis, profuse sweating,
enlarged wrists, delayed or poor tooth development.
Vitamin E (Tocopherol):
Infertility, lowered immune system, age spots, muscle weakness, ischertiic
heart disease, Myalgia, Muscular Dystrophy, anemia, increased risk of
Cancer, Alzheimer's syndrome.
Vitamin K (Menaquinone):
Extended cloning time, Hemorrhage, & Osteoporosis.
Water Soluble
B1 (Thiamine):
Congestive heart failure, Loss of memory, Mental confusion, Depression,
Lethargy, Muscular weakness, Paralysis, Emotional instability, Loss
of appetite.
B2 (Riboflavin):
Soreness and burning of lips, mouth and tongue, erosions & swelling
of tongue ("geographic" tongue), magenta tongue, photophobia, lacrimation
(tearing) anemia, and several others.
B3 (Niacin):
Pellagra, Muscular weakness, Anorexia, sore "beef tongue", darkened
skin pigmentation, scaly dermatitis.
B5 (Pantothenic Acid):
Dermatitis, Burning of feet, loss of appetite, quarrel some, Sullen,
depressed, tachycardia, fainting, and indigestion.
B6 (Pyridoxine):
Depression, nausea, vomiting, seborrheic dermatitis, mucous membrane
lesions and peripheral neuritis, ataxia (instability), hyperirritability,
head tic (Tourette's syndrome), and convulsions.
B12 (Cobalamin):
Spinal chord demyclination, progressive neuropathy, and pemicious anemia.
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5.
A Common Result of Mineral Deficiencies - -
At least 24 elements are essential for life.
Minerals are essential to physical and mental health. They are a basic
part of all cells, particularly blood, nerve, muscle, bones, teeth,
and soft tissue. Some are essential for functional support such as the
electrolyte minerals (sodium, potassium, and chloride), that help regulate
the fluid and acid-base balance of our bodies, are part of enzymes that
catalyze biochemical reactions, aid energy production, metabolism, nerve
transmission, muscle contraction, and cell permeability. Carbohydrates,
proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals are the building blocks of our
body, and provide the fuel to maintain life, promote cell and tissue
growth and other biochemical support. Minerals contain no calories or
energy in themselves. Minerals can be simply defined as chemical molecules
that cannot be reduced to simpler substances. The main elements essential
to health are the macrominerals; calcium, phosphorus, chlorine, potassium,
sulfur, sodium, magnesium and silicon. The trace minerals are; iron,
copper, zinc, iodine, cobalt, bromide, boron, manganese, selenium, fluorine,
molybdenum, vanadium, arsenic and chromium. Other minerals contained
in the body include some of the toxic metals; lead, aluminum, cadmium,
and mercury. See "Minerals" button on left for more detailed info.
Calcium:
Osteoporosis, Receding Gums, Arthritis, Hypertension, Insomnia, Kidney
Stones, BoneSpurs, Calcium deposits, Cramps and Twitches, PMS, Low back
problems, Bell's Palsy, Panic Attacks.
Chromium:
Low blood sugar, Prediabetes, Diabetes (ulcers/gangrene), Hyperactivity,
Learning Disabilities, ADD/ADHD, Depression, Manic Depression, Impaired
Growth, Elevated blood Triglycerides, Elevated Blood cholesterol, Coronary
blood vessel disease, Infertility and decreased sperm count, Shortened
life span.
Copper:
White hair, Gray hair, Dry brittle hair, Sagging tissue of the eyelids,
skin, breasts and stomach, Hernias, Varicose veins, Aneurysms, Anemia,
Hypo & Hyper Thyroid, Arthritis, Ruptures Vertebral Disc, Liver Cirrhosis,
Violent behavior, Learning Disabilities, Cerebral Palsy, High blood
cholesterol, and low blood sugar.
Iodine:
Thyroid Diseases (Hypo and Hyper thyroidism)
Lithium:
Depression and Manic Depression
Magnesium :
Asthma, Anorexia, Menstrual migraines, Growth failure, Neuro muscular
problems, Convulsions, Depression, Muscular weakness, Tremors, Vertigo,
Calcification of Small Arteries, and "Malignant" calcification of soft
tissue.
Manganese:
Congenital ataxia, Deafness, Asthma, TMJ, Repetitive Motion Syndrome,
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Convulsions, Infertility (failure to ovulate
or testicular atrophy), Still births and rniscarriages, Loss of libido,
and Retarded growth rate.
Oxygen:
Rheumatoid arthritis, Herpes II, HIV, Epstein Barr Virus (Chronic Fatigue
Syndrome), Hanta virus, Toxic Shock Syndrome, Type A streptococcus ("Flesheating"
type), Valley Fever, Cancer (all types).
Selenium:
HIV, Anemia, "Age Spots" & "Liver Spots", Fatigue, Muscular Weakness,
Myalgia (Muscle pain & soreness), Scoliosis, Muscular Dystrophy, Cystic
Fibrosis, Cardiomyopathy, MultipleSclerosis (associated with Mercury
poisoning), Mean palpitations, Irregular heart beat, Liver cirrhosis,
Pancreatitis, Pancreatic atrophy, ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease - Associated
with Mercury poisoning), Alzheimer' 5 disease, Adrenoleucodynrophy (ALD
- "Lorenzo's Oil" syndrome), Infertility, Low birth weight, High infant
mortality, SIDS, Cancer, clinical onset of AIDS in WV infected individuals,
and Siclcle cell anemia.
Zinc:
Congenital birth defects: such as Down's Syndrome, Cleft lip
or palate, Brain defects (dorsal herniation, hydroencephaloceo!), Small
or absent eyes, Spins bifida, Clubbed limbs, Webbed toes and fingers,
Diaphragmatic (hiatal) and Umbilical hernias, Heart defects, Lung defects
and Urogenital defects.
And in Adults: Pica (eating inappropriate items), Loss of sense
of smell or taste, infertility, failure of wounds and ulcers to heal,
Immune status failure, Poor growth (short stature), high infant mortality,
Hypogonadism (small poorly functioning ovaries and testes), Remains
in prepuberty state, Anemia, Alopecia (hair loss), "Frizzy" hair, Diarrhea,
Depression, Paranoia, Oral and perioral dermatitis, Weight loss (Anorexia
nervosa), Prostate enlargement, Severe body odor, Anorexia and Bulimia.
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6.
Oral Absorption vs Colloids, Conversion Tables, pH info.
Orally absorbed Minerals are breakthru new technology solutions of water soluable minerals with a positive charge that make the minerals
small enough to be absorbed at the cellular level. This results in a
highly absorbable product that is highly effective. If you shine a pencil
laser through the water, you would see no "sprakling" or items
in suspension.
Colloidals
on the other hand, are mineral particles in micron size suspended in
a solution by various means, such as protein; and many times are made
up of ionic compounds such as chromium chloride or silver nitrate. If
you shine a pencil laser thru the solution, you can see the particles
in suspension. Notice the label that warns that some settling may occur,
and to shake well before using! It is estimated that only 1% to 5% of
colloidals and compounds are able to be broken down by the body. Therefore,
2000mg of a product would result on maybe 20-30mg being absorbed, while
most of the remaining product builds up in the body creating problems.
Another
way to look at colloidals, it is like trying to put a quarter into a
dime slot. When the body requires certain minerals, the cells will "grab"
any mineral it needs and try to absorbe them. If the particle size is
too great ( as with colloidals etc.), the cells cannot get what they
need, and keep on "grabbing" more. That is how toxic buildup
of minerals may happen. Once the cells are satisfied, they release the other
minerals they have been holding on to, causing a "detox" effect.
In fact, since these minerals are absorbed so well ( near 100% absorption)
and so quickly, the effects are noticed very quickly or within a few
hours!!
Conversion
Tables
1
Gallon = 4 Quarts = 8 Pints = 128oz. = 256 tablespoons = 768 teaspoons
1 Quart = 2 Pints = 32oz. = 64 tablespoons = 192 teaspoons
1 Pint = 16oz. = 32 tablespoons = 96 teaspoons
1 teaspoon = 5ml
3 teaspoons = 1 Tablespoon 2 Tablespoons
= 1oz.
100ppm = 1/2mg = 1 teaspoon (ml/liter=ppm)
| Helpful
Conversions |
| 1
tsp |
=
1/3 TBL |
=
1/6 ounce |
| 3
tsp |
=
1 TBL |
=
1/2 ounce |
| 6
tsp |
=
2 TBL |
=
1 ounce |
| 48
tsp |
=
1 cup |
=
8 fl. oz. |
| 16
TBL |
=
1 cup |
=
8 fl. oz. |
| |
=
2 cups |
=
16 fl. oz. |
| |
=
4 cups |
=
1 quart |
|
pH Level
Acidic = 0 Neutral
= 7 Body Normal = 7.2 Alkaline
= 14
Most people tend to be acidic, or have a low pH level. This could result
in a person being susceptible to viruses, flu, indigestion, headaches
and fatigue. When to body can maintain a 7.2pH, many issuses seem to
disappear, because disease does not survive in an alkaline environment.
Maintaining a good pH level requires proper mineral absorption.
Certain minerals work better at night and others work better during
the day. There are also minerals and vitamins that work together, activating
each other.
Minerals Best in Morning |
Minerals Best in Evening |
Work Together - Activate
Each |
Boron |
Boron |
|
Calcium |
Calcium |
Magnesium |
Chromium |
|
Zinc |
Cobalt |
|
Vitamin B |
Copper |
Copper |
Iron + Zinc |
Germanium |
|
|
Gold |
Gold |
Selenium |
Iodine |
|
|
Iron |
|
Copper |
Lithium |
|
|
Magnesium |
|
Calcium |
Manganese |
|
|
Platinum |
|
|
Potassium |
|
|
Selenium |
|
Gold |
Silver |
Silver |
|
Sulfur |
Sulfur |
Vitamin C |
Tin |
|
|
Zinc |
|
|
| |
|
|
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7.
Oral Absorption or "Buccal Absorption"
BUCCAL
ABSORPTION OF BIOLOGICALLY ACTIVE SUBSTANCES -- Buccal absorption
for many biomolecules has been demonstrated. Vitamins, amino acids,
simple sugars, hormones, barbiturates, alkaloids, opiates, methadrines,
ephedrines, straight chain fatty acids and minerals are all well absorbed,
according to an extensive body of scientific articles in referenced
journals.
Buccal
absorption occurs by simple diffusion and by active (energy requiring)
transport. In general, molecules without a physiological requirement
are absorbed by simple diffusion. Active uptake mechanisms are present
for most nutrients which have been examined. Active uptake is more efficient
than simple diffusion, and may occur against a concentration gradient.
Active uptake of the following nutrients has been demonstrated by buccal
mucosa: thiamine , niacinamide , fatty acids , minerals and electrolytes
, vitaminC , amino acids and simple sugars .
Most
of the oral epithelia (lining of the mouth) have a high absorption capability,
including the buccal cavity (the inside of the cheeks and the roof of
the mouth), the sublingual epithelia (under the tongue) and the gingiva
(the gums). These tissues are heavily vascularized (many small blood
vessels). The absorbed molecule quickly passes through the plasma membrane
and into circulation in the rich capillary bed surrounding these tissues.
Buccal absorption is the fastest and most efficient method of application
for most nutrients and drugs tested, with the exception that invasive
intravenous injection is faster in some cases.
The
factors affecting the efficiency of buccal absorption are different
from those affecting absorption through the mucosa of the small intestine.
The kinetics of buccal absorption are affected principally by the surface
area for absorption, the solubility of the molecule and its carrier
fluid in the saliva, the pH of the saliva and the pH of the carrier
solution and the rate of ionization of the molecule and the rate of
salivation of the subject. Intestinal absorption of nutrients and drugs
present a series of limitations which do not occur with oral absorption.
Intestinal
absorption of nutrients is reduced due to solubility problems of the
tablet. If the tablet is not sufficiently dissolved by the time the
absorptive region of the small intestine is reached, absorption is reduced.
Conversely, if the molecule or ion is too soluble, its residence time
on the surface of the mucosa will be minimal and absorption will not
occur.
The
speed and precision of buccal absorption allows for accurate and timely
administration of nutrients and drugs. Buccal absorption occurs within
seconds, and is complete within minutes. Intestinal absorption occurs
within one half hour to two and a half hours, depending on the nutritional
status of the subject and the substance being absorbed.
Buccal
absorption allows for a much more precise administration of a nutrient
or drug compared to ingestion, and thus less wastage. Optimum blood
concentrations may be maintained by periodic spraying. Typical blood
concentrations of ingested nutrients and drugs show a peak concentration
at a higher than physiologically useful level, followed by a valley
of blood concentration lower than the physiological requirements. Less
of the molecule is biologically available, and an additional clearance
burden is placed on the liver and kidneys.
Since
many nutrients may share the same active uptake mechanism in the intestinal
mucosa, they may tend to compete with each other for absorption sites.
For example, taking a normal tableted dietary supplement of iron may
lead to a dietary deficiency for zinc, which uses the same uptake mechanism
and is outcompeted for absorption sites by the supplemented iron. Buccal
absorption circumvents this occurrence.
Buccal
absorption allows the administration of nutrients and other biologically
active substances without the functional chemicals required for tableting.
These are often the cause of reported nutrient and drug intolerance,and
their disclosure in products manufactured in the USA is not required.
These chemicals include binders and exipients such as gelatin extracted
from animal hooves, stearates and tallow from animal fat, starches,
and silicates, as well as coating containing waxes and shellacs.
Since
molecules absorbed bucally are not subject to the low pH environment
of the stomach, degradation and ubsequent reduction of biological activity
of acid-sensitive molecules does not occur. Similarly, buccal absorption
avoids elimination by the liver on the first pass through the circulatory
system, which occurs for molecules absorbed through the intestinal mucosa.
- Stephen R. Smith
Life Sciences, 1983. 32:1355.
Life Sciences, 1980. 27:1649.
J. of Pharm. Pharmacol., 1968. 20 (Supplement): 239S
Trans. American Physiological Society. 1988 G286
British J. Nutrition. 1979. 42:15 Biochem. Soc. Trans. 1981. 9:132
British J. Nutrition. 1983. 49:35
Clin. Science and Molecular Medicine. 1976. 51:127
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8.
What's in Pills - -
HAVE YOU EVER READ THE INGREDIENT LABEL ON
YOUR VITAMIN PILL BOTTLE ? ?
Many contain ingredients that do not contribute at all
to your nutritional needs. These items are termed EXCIPIENTS (ik si-pe-ant).
Excipient: a usually inert substance (as gum arabic or starch) that
forms a vehicle (as for a drug). Additionally, details on these and
other "inert fillers & binders" (wheat,whey, etc.) are
not all required to be listed and may be changed from batch to batch
without notice to anyone. For example: we found we were allergic to
certain forms of "whey" when a generic manufacturer changed
the "inert" ingredients in one of his products, as he ran
out of the normal "inert filler"
Makers of pills, tablets, or caplets have standard size
molds for the precise size of their pill. It does not matter what the
active ingredients are because the manufacturer will add fillers, binders,
waxes, and other excipients to take up the space. A filler does nothing
more than take up volume and some common fillers are talcum powder,
sugar, whey and yeast.
If a company claims it does not use any of these common
fillers, then they surely use dehydrogenated animal fat. They have to
have something to fill up the space within the mold. Also they must
use wax or some kind of binders to make the components stick together
when they squeeze everything to make the pill.
The molds must be sprayed with a releasing agent which
is another form of wax or grease to allow the pill to drop out of the
mold. Some tablets are coated with a shiny coating. This is normally
shellac - the same as used on wood floors and boats! It is a mixture
of shellac and 200 proof alcohol that makes time release capsules. There
is a little bit of active ingredient and fillers coated with the shellac/alcohol
mixture. The percentage of alcohol controls the time the pill takes
to dissolve in the stomach.
Normal tablets must meet U.S. Pharmaceutical standards
here or European standards in Europe. Pharmaceutical standards means
tablets must dissolve within 15 to 30 minutes once in your stomach.
To test your tablets, place white vinegar in a dish or glass and drop
in your pill. Check periodically. It should dissolve within 15 to 30
minutes to meet U.S.P. standards. If it doesn't, then you are paying
a high price for talcum powder! You can keep this test up for 45 to
60 minutes, but if the pill is not dissolved by then, it can't possibly
generate any benefit to your body.
DO YOU REALLY NEED THESE ITEMS ? ?
Included in this list are:
1. Propylene glycol - a sweet hydroscopic viscous liquid made from propylene
and used in anti-freeze, solvent and brake fluid.
2. Talc - a very soft mineral that is a basic silicate of magnesium,
has a soapy feel, and is used especially in making Talcum powder. Recently
banned in baby powder!
3. Shellac - a preparation dissolved usually in alcohol and used chiefly
as a wood filler and finish.
4. Polyethylene glycol - (a) Polyethylene is a polymer of ethylene;
any of various partially crystalline lightweight thermoplastics that
are resistant to chemicals and moisture, have good insulating properties,
and are used in packaging and insulation (b) ethylene glycol is a thick
liquid used especially as an anti-freeze and in making polyester fibers.
5. Stearic Acid - a white crystalline fatty acid obtained by saponifying
tallow or other hard fats.
6. Carnauba Wax - a hard brittle high-melting wax obtained from the
leaves of the carnauba palm and used chiefly in polishes.
7. Silicon Dioxide - a tetravalent non-metallic element that occurs
combined with two atoms of oxygen in the earth's crust and is used especially
in alloys and electronic devices.
OTHER ITEMS LISTED
Annatto, Titanium Dioxide, Dextrose, Lactose, Sucrose,
Starch, Partially Hydrogenated Coconut Oil, Magnesium Stearate, Modified
Cellulose Gum, Crospovidone, Hydroxypropl, Methylcellulose,Triscetin,
Celostearyl, Alcohol Artificial Flavors, Gelatin, FD&C #40, FD&C #6,
FD&C #2, Sodium Benzonate, Microcrystalline Cellulose, etc. etc. etc.
......
ALL PILLS CONTAIN MOST OR SOME
OF THE ABOVE ! !
VITAMIST ORAL SPRAY VITAMINS CONTAIN ABSOLUTELY NONE ! !
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9.
Herbs and Human Health - -
Herbs have been used for many thousands
of years to maintain human health and to prevent disease. Herbs may
justly be considered the first medicines of mankind. Herbs had reduced
popularity for the treatment of disease after the advent of patented
medicines. During the last 10 years, however, herbs have gained a substantial
presence in the "over-the-counter" market in the United States and particularly
in Europe. In Germany, for example, herbal remedies are available side-by-side
with conventional remedies. The growing popularity of herbs may be attributed
to three factors - they are effective, economical, and have few side
effects.
Herbs are effective remedies due
to one or a number of different active principals each contain. For
example, ginseng contains ginsenosides or eleutherosides, garlic contains
allicin, and Echinacea contains insulin. Plants use these substances
as passive defense mechanisms to control disease and pest infestation.
The amount of active principles in herbs vary greatly, depending upon
the strain of the plant, where and how it was grown, and how the preparation
containing the active principal is prepared. For this reason, standardized
herbs and herbal preparations are preferable, as they supply uniform
amounts of the active constituents
Herbs may be taken in the following
forms; in the fresh form, in tablets or capsules, as teas, or in a concentrated
tincture (extract). Eating fresh herbs is not possible for most people,
due to supply and perishability problems. Tableted and capsule forms
have the disadvantage of uncertain digestibility and absorption, and
contain unwanted gelatins, waxes, excipients and other ingredients.
Teas are useful preparations, but active ingredient concentration is
hard to determine, and bio-activity may be low due to heat degradation.
Standardized tinctures are considered the most useful form, since they
supply uniform levels of active ingredients in a concentrated and highly
bio-active form. Active constituents in tinctures are absorbed in the
mouth buccally and sub-lingually, as well as by the small intestine.
- Stephen R. Smith
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10.
Essential Fatty Acids - -
Fatty acids are the major constituents of fats. Fatty
acids which are required by the body but are not manufactured are termed
fatty acids (or EFA's). EFA's have vitamin-like action, as they are
required in small concentrations for normal metabolic processes. EFA's
are unsaturated fatty acids, as they have unsaturated carbon atoms (at
the third or sixth from the last position). For this reason, EFA's are
also called omega three and omega six fatty acids. The requirements
for EFA's are not specific. That is, any combination of a number of
EFA's can satisfy the total requirement. The most commonly known EFA
is gamma linoleic acid (GLA), an omega3 fatty acid. Linoleic and arachadonic
acids are examples of omega 6 EFA's.
Essential fatty acids are rare in land animals and plants,
with the notable exceptions of borage oil and evening primrose oil.
The principal sources of EFA's are marine algae. Fish and invertebrate
animals are also excellent sources of EFA's.
Essential fatty acids are required for the formation of
potent bio-molecules known as prostaglandins. Prostaglandins promote
or inhibit inflammatory response, aggregation and adhesion of platelets,
regulation of blood pressure and constriction and dilation of blood
vessels.1
Epidemiologic studies of native Alaskans consuming high
levels of essential fatty acids as part of their high fish diet first
revealed a positive effect of essential fatty acids on coronary heart
disease.2,3 Since that time, it has been found
that essential fatty acids can effect platelet function and inflammation
responses, and may thereby influence the development of certain chronic
diseases, such as coronary heart disease and rheumatoid arthritis4 .- Stephen R. Smith
REFERENCES - 1. Recommended Daily Allowances,
10th Edition, 1989, National Research Council.
2. New England Journal of Medicine, 1993, 326 (11).
3. Nutrition Metabolism in Cardiovascular Disease, 1992, 2 (33-39).
4. New England Journal of Medicine, 1988, 318 (549-557).
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11.
PreNatal Multi-Vitamins - -
Prenatal multivitamins are multivitamins
which are especially formulated to meet the needs of the pregnant and
lactating mother. In addition, they are critically important for women
who feel they may become pregnant.
A good prenatal multivitamin provides
recommended proportions of the water and fat soluble vitamins. The most
important aspect of the prenatal is additional added folic acid.
Folic acid supplementation has been
known to significantly reduce fetal neural tube deformities such as
spina bifida and ancephaly (absence of brain and spinal chord), especially
in high risk women whose previous pregnancies have resulted in neural
tube deformities1,2. Pregnancy increases the
incidence of folic acid deficiency among women with low or marginal
intakes of the vitamin3,4 indicating the need
for supplementation by this group. Folic acid supplementation is also
recommended for pregnant women and women who may become pregnant and
have adequate nutritional status. A reduction of premature births occurred
with folic acid supplementation of women with adequate health status5,
as did a 50% reduction in small-for-date births. - Stephen R. Smith
REFERENCES - 1. Nutrition Reviews, 1991.
49:10.
2. The Lancet, 1991. 338:8760.
3. New York City Annals of Internal Medicine, 1967., 66:25-34.
4. Journal of Clinical Pathology, 1966. 19:1-11.
5. British Journal of Medicine, 1970. 1:16-17.
6. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 122:332-336.
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12.
Anti-Oxidants - -
ANTI-OXIDANTS
AND HUMAN HEALTH -- Anti-oxidants are
chemical compounds which are capable of stopping oxidative damage. A
principal mode of operation is to neutralize free radical molecules
and prevent their formation. Free radicals are compounds possessing
a single electron in the final electron orbital of the molecule rather
than the normal pair. They are formed through natural oxidative processes,
and may be formed in increased amounts following exposure to environmental
toxicity and increased exercise. Anti-oxidants, which may also be termed
free radical scavengers, deactivate the reactive electron singlets by
bonding with them.
Three anti-oxidants have vitamin
status, that is they are required by the human body, and the human body
does not synthesize them. These vitamin anti-oxidants are vitamin C,
vitamin E, and beta-carotene (vitamin A precursor). In addition to its
specific vitamin role, vitamin C serves general anti-oxidative function
in water soluble tissues. Also, in addition to their specific vitamin
roles, Vitamins E and beta-carotene serve general anti-oxidative function
in fat soluble tissues. Reduced blood levels of all three of these have
been shown to occur in patients suffering from a variety of chronic
diseases, and supplementation has been shown to have a beneficial effect,
even at levels much higher than the currently accepted Recommended Daily
Allowances (RDA's).
Other effective anti-oxidants have
been discovered which do not have vitamin status. These include the
proanthocyanidins from pine bark and grape seed, bioflavinoids from
citrus and rose hips, ghutathione peroxidase and its mediator selenium,
and catechins from green tea. These may augment the vitamin anti-oxidants,
and may have greater effectiveness at penetrating membrane bound structures.
Consumption of higher levels of
vitamin C has been shown to reduce risk of coronary heart disease. Vitamin
C has a protective effect on lung function, and daily vitamin C intake
in humans has been shown to enhance lung function, even at three times
the RDA for the vitamin. Cigarette smoke contains large quantities of
free radicals and substances that generate free radicals in the body.
Clinical studies have clearly demonstrated that smokers have lower blood
levels of vitamin C than non-smokers, even when the same amount of the
vitamin are consumed. Passive, or environmental tobacco smoke also resulted
in reduced blood vitamin C levels. Vitamin C supplementation has been
shown to protect against lipid peroxidation in patients with myocardial
infarction. In one 20 year duration study of over 4500 men, consumption
of vitamin C (and also beta-carotene and vitamin E as well), resulted
in reduced risk of lung cancer in smokers. Vitamin C (as well as beta-carotene),
has been shown to reduce the incidence of cataracts in a study of almost
30,000 males. In addition, vitamin C supplementation at levels higher
than the current recommended RDA has been shown to enhance general immunity,
measured by histamine response.
Vitamin E has also been shown to
offer protection against a number of chronic ailments at levels higher
than the accepted RDA. It protects against myocardial infarction, slows
the rate of clogging of arteries that can lead to heart attacks, and
protects against induced cancers in experimental animals. Alzheimer's
patients have been shown to have lower blood vitamin E levels compared
to healthy individuals.
Beta-carotene supplementation shows
similar protective effect against some chronic disease and environmental
pollution. Low blood levels of beta-carotene were found to increase
the incidence of rheumatoid arthritis in one long-term study in humans.
In another study, non-melanoma skin tumors were decreased by beta-carotene
supplementation.
These citations and a vast number
of similar studies are convincing evidence that we all should be supplementing
our diets with anti-oxidants. - Stephen R. Smith
REFERENCES 1. American Journal of Clinical
Nutrition. 1994. 59(1) :110-114.
2. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 1993. 58:886-890.
3. European Heart Journal. 1995. 16:1044-1049.
4. American Journal of Epidemiology. 1991 134:5.
5. Inv. Opth. 1992. 33:109.
6. J. American Col. Nutr. 1992. 11:172-176.
7. J. American Dietetic Association. 1995. 95:775-780.
8. J. American Medical Association. 1995. 273 (23) :1849-1854.
9. Circulation. 1993. 88:278.
10. Nutr. Cancer. 1993. 20:145-151.
11. Archives of Internal Medicine. 1993. 153:2050-2052.
12. Annals of Rheumatoid Disease. 1994. 53:51-53.
13. Nutr. Cancer. 1994. 21:1-12.
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