multivitamins containing high-potency B- Complex, ample amounts of antioxidants (including Vitamins A, C, and E, selenium), and probiotics (ideally taken separately as a refrigerated supplement), have the great- est noticeable impact on the energy and immunity of those individuals who gener- ally maintain poor diets and are unaccus- tomed to taking high-quality vitamins.
The ABCs of Multivitamins Below are listed some of the more ba-
sic, but critically important, nutrients in- cluded in multivitamins, along with their principal functions. Since the scope of this article permits only a limited discussion of multivitamin components, we urge you to research others of interest to determine if they may benefit you.
Vitamin A/Beta Carotene Principal Functions: an antioxidant
that supports vision (prevents night blind- ness); supports skin health (prevents acne, especially when taken with zinc picoli- nate); slows the aging process; and boosts the immune system against viruses (colds, flu, warts) and cancer (especially cervi- cal cancer). Special Notes: 25,000 i.u. / day can be taken safely, but daily doses exceeding 100,000 i.u. can be toxic to the liver, where Vitamin A is stored; antibiotics, laxatives and some cholesterol-lowering drugs interfere with Vitamin A absorption; 10% of beta carotene (which is not stored in/toxic to the liver) converts to Vitamin A as the body needs it.
B Vitamins
Include Thiamin (B1), Riboflavin (B2), Niacin/Niacinamide (B3) (cholesterol bal- ancing; stress/anxiety), Pantothenic Acid (B5) (adrenal gland support), B12 (red blood cell builder; nervous system protec-
tion), Biotin (hair/skin/nails support), Inos- itol (sleep, stress/anxiety), and Folic Acid (cardiovascular support). Principal Functions: these water-
soluble vitamins maintain healthy nerves, skin, hair, eyes, mouth, digestive system, and brain function; can alleviate stress/ anxiety, depression, and fatigue. Special Notes: B vitamins should be taken togeth- er in the same doses, after which higher doses of single B vitamins can be added to a regimen; all drugs (including antibiot- ics), alcohol, stress, and caffeine can cause B vitamin deficiencies, and a deficiency in one B vitamin often indicates a deficiency in others.
Vitamin C Principal Functions: an antioxidant
that is required for hundreds of metabolic functions; supports tissue growth/repair, adrenal gland function, and gum health; can reduce asthma/allergy symptoms and the length or severity of the common cold; increases the absorption of iron. Special Notes: all drugs (including analgesics, antidepressants, anticoagulants and oral contraceptives), alcohol, and smoking can reduce body levels of Vitamin C; non- acidic/buffered Ester-C is four times more bioavailable than regular Vitamin C.
Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol)
Principal Functions: this fat-soluble vitamin-hormone protects the skin against premature aging (especially when applied topically); boosts immunity, especially against breast and colon cancer; enhances calcium absorption and reduces bone loss; provides mood support at daily minimum levels of 5,000 i.u. Special Notes: Vitamin D must be taken with calcium; intestinal, liver and gallbladder disorders, antacids, some cholesterol-lowering drugs, and ste- roids/cortisone interfere with Vitamin D absorption.
Vitamin E (100% Natural Mixed Tocopherols):
Principal Functions: this fat soluble an- tioxidant prevents some cancers and car- diovascular disease; improves circulation by thinning the blood; required for tissue repair; minimizes PMS and peri/meno- pausal symptoms; can prevent scarring. Special Notes: Vitamin C regenerates Vita- min E; take Vitamin E and iron separately; consult your physician before taking Vita- min E with an anticoagulant drug such as Coumadin/Warfarin.
Vitamin K
Principal Functions: required for blood clotting; essential for bone formation and repair, and thus inhibits osteopenia, osteo- porosis, and osteoarthritis; assists in the storage of glucose in the liver, thus pro- moting healthy liver function and blood sugar levels. Special Notes: Vitamin K is contraindicated with blood thinning drugs; antibiotics increase the need for Vi- tamin K.
Conclusion
Multivitamins are certainly not a panacea, but they are a great, and relatively easy and inexpensive, first step toward proper nutrition. Try experimenting with different brands and formulas until you find one that feels like it is making a difference. If you suffer from a chronic condition, con- sider consulting a clinical nutrition expert for a nutritional supplements regimen be- yond a multivitamin that can support and advance your healing process.
Submitted by Michael Dworkin, P.D.,
M.S., a Registered Pharmacist and State Cer- tified Clinical Nutritionist (CT Certification #00203), with J. Erika Dworkin, Dip.C.N./ Board Cert. Holistic Nutrition (pending). Owner of the Manchester Parkade Health Shoppe (860.646.8178, 378 West Middle Turnpike, Manchester), Pharmacist Dwor- kin has been guiding patients since 1956 and is available for consultation by ap- pointment. Erika is available to speak to groups. References are available upon re- quest. The statements in this article have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. None of the natural rem- edies discussed herein are intended to di- agnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. See ad on page 15.
38 September 2010
www.naturalnutmeg.com
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