Vitamins

All natural vitamins are organic food substances found only in living things, that is, plants and animals. With few exceptions, the body cannot manufacture or synthesize vitamins. They must be supplied by the diet or in dietary supplements. Vitamins are essential to the normal functioning of our bodies. They are necessary for growth, vitality, health, general well being, and for the prevention and cure of many health problems and diseases.



HOW THEY WORK: A lot of people think vitamins can replace food, they cannot! In fact, vitamins cannot be assimilated without ingesting food. That is why they should be taken with a meal. Vitamins regulate metabolism, help convert fat and carbohydrates into energy, and assist in forming bone and tissue.

VITAMIN A (Beta Carotene)
A powerful anti-oxidant which helps protect the cells against cancer by neutralizing "Free Radicals," necessary for new cell growth; guards against heart disease and stroke; lowers cholesterol levels; slows the aging process; protects against colds, flu and infections of the kidneys, bladder, lungs and mucous membranes; promotes healthy wrinkle-free skin, and helps in the removal of age spots and acne; promotes healthy hair and nails; protects against air pollutants and counteracts night blindness and weak eye sight; builds resistance to infections; slows the progression of osteoarthritis and cataracts; helps prevent macular degeneration of the eyes.
 
VITAMIN B-1 (Thiamin)
Known as the "Morale Vitamin" because of its beneficial effects on the nervous system and mental attitude. It enhances circulation, assists in blood formation, carbohydrate metabolism and digestion; plays a key role in generating energy; promotes good muscle tone; acts as an anti-oxidant, protecting the body from degenerative effects of aging; helps prevent reoccurring canker sores; helps maintain a healthy nervous system; prevents depression, alleviates fatigue, optimizes brain function and mental alertness; has been used to treat numbness of the hands and feet, poor circulation, tingling sensations, weak or sore muscles, forgetfulness, heavy breathing, and irritability.
 
VITAMIN B-2 (Riboflavin)
Necessary for red blood cell formation, anti-body production, cell respiration, and growth; alleviates eye fatigue, and is important in the prevention of cataracts; aids in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins; promotes the oxygenation of the skin, hair, and nails; eliminates dandruff; aids in the release of energy from food; reduces the occurrence of migraine headaches; helps eliminate cracked mouth, lips, and tongue; supports the production of adrenal hormones.
 
VITAMIN B-6 (Pyridoxine)
Can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease by inhibiting the formation of homocysteine, a toxic chemical that attacks the heart muscle and allows the deposition of cholesterol around the heart muscle; aids in maintaining the central nervous system and normal brain function; reduces muscle spasms, leg cramps and stiffness of the hands; relieves nausea and migraines, lowers cholesterol; improves vision, and aids in the prevention of PMS; promotes red blood cell formation; aids the immune system and antibody production; aids in cancer immunity and in the prevention of atherosclerosis; is destroyed by alcoholic beverages.
 
VITAMIN B-12 (Colbalamin)
Helps in the formation of red blood cells, thus helping prevent anemia; increases energy levels; promotes a healthy immune system, and nerve function; is required for the proper digestion of foods, the synthesis of protein, and the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats; aids in cell formation and cellular longevity; prevents nerve damage; improves concentration, memory, and balance; may protect against smoking-induced cancer.
 
NIACINAMIDE (Niacin - vitamin B-3)
Dilates blood vessels, thus increasing circulation and reducing high blood pressure; significantly lowers blood cholesterol and triglycerides; improves resistance to stress; regulates blood sugar; treats dizziness and ringing in the ears; helps prevent depression, mental illness, and migraine headaches; aids in the functioning of the nervous system; helps eliminate canker sores and bad breath; protects against pollutants and toxins; gives you healthier looking skin and stimulates the sex drive.



PANTOTHENIC ACID
Is considered the "Anti-Stress" Vitamin because of its important role in the functioning of the adrenal glands, which produce hormones that help our bodies respond to stress; plays an important role in making hemoglobin, which transports oxygen throughout our bodies; helpful in detoxifying harmful chemicals such as herbicides and insecticides; along with anti-oxidants, zinc, copper, and vitamin D, will prevent accelerated joint degeneration, by encouraging your body's ability to regenerate cartilage; fights infections by building antibodies; prevents fatigue, and used by athletes to boost performance; used to reduce the adverse and toxic effects of many antibiotics; stimulates the release of energy from carbohydrates, fats and protein; promotes the production of red blood cells and sex hormones; helps with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and menopausal discomforts; lowers high cholesterol and triglycerides.
 
BIOTIN
Aids in the utilization of protein and other nutrients; aids in cell growth and fatty acid production; promotes the health of sweat glands, nerve tissue, bone marrow, male sex glands, blood cells, skin and hair; cures some forms of baldness, and is used in preventative treatments for baldness; prevents the hair from turning prematurely gray; alleviates eczema and dermatitis; alleviates muscle pain; may help reduce blood sugar levels in people with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes.



FOLIC ACID
May reduce the risk of a heart attack by lowering homocysteine levels. In recent years, high levels of homocysteine have been found to be associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries due to the accumulation of fatty plaques). Protects against birth defects by helping regulate embryonic and fetal nerve cell formation; protects against intestinal parasites and food poisoning; may delay graying hair when used in conjunction with pantothenic acid and PABA; promotes healthier looking skin, is considered a brain food; is needed for energy production, and the formation of red blood cells; strengthens the immune system by aiding the proper formation and functioning of white blood cells; important for healthy cell division and replication.



INOSITOL
Is vital for hair growth; promotes strong healthy hair, and aids in preventing fallout; high levels of this nutrient is found in the heart and brain; creates a calming effect and reduces blood cholesterol; prevents hardening of the arteries, and is important in the formation of lecithin and the metabolism of fat and cholesterol; removes fat from the liver; aids in redistribution of body fat; helps prevent eczema; has been used for depression, panic attacks and diabetes.
 
CHOLINE
A "super nutrient" for the liver and brain; needed for the proper transmission of nerve impulse from the brain through the central nervous system; is able to penetrate the blood-brain barrier and go directly into brain cells to produce acetylcholine, a chemical that aids memory; aids in the treatment of Alzheimer's and other age-related memory loss; aids in hormone production; is important in controlling fat and cholesterol build-up in the body; emulsifies (breaks down) cholesterol so that it doesn't settle on artery walls or in the gallbladder; used for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis and the metabolism of homocysteine; helps eliminate poisons and drugs from your system by aiding the liver; used to treat liver damage caused by alcoholism.
 
PABA (Para Amino Benzoic Acid)
An anti-oxidant which helps in the formation of red blood cells; aids in the maintenance of healthy intestinal flora; acts as a coenzyme in the breakdown and utilization of protein; may restore gray hair to its original color if the graying was caused by stress or a nutritional deficiency; protects against second hand smoke, ozone, and other air pollutants; reduces inflammation caused by arthritis; improves flexibility; helps keep skin smooth; has been used to prevent and reverse accumulation of abnormal fibrous tissue, as occurs in various connective tissue diseases.
 
VITAMIN C (Ascorbic Acid)
A major and very potent anti-oxidant; plays a primary role in the formation of collagen, which is important for the growth and repair of body tissue cells, gums, blood vessels, bones and teeth; protects against the harmful effects of pollution; protects against infection, and enhances the immune system; helps protect against many forms of cancer by counteracting the formation of nitrosamines (cancer-causing substances); protects against abnormal blood clotting and bruising, and may reduce the risk of cataracts; aids in the treatment and prevention of the common cold; prevents scurvy; reduces the effects of many allergy producing substances; helps lower blood pressure; is vital for wound healing; strengthens the blood vessels; reduces cholesterol and protects against heart disease; aids in the production of "anti-stress" hormones; is needed for healthy adrenal function; helps expel heavy metals and other toxic substances from the body.
 
BIOFLAVONOIDS - HESPERIDIN - RUTIN
Is essential for the proper absorption and use of Vitamin C; promotes vascular health; protects and preserves the structure of capillaries, which will help prevent bruising, varicose veins and hemorrhoids; helps prevent blood clotting and platelet clumping by making the blood less sticky; lowers cholesterol levels; treats and prevents cataracts, glaucoma, and other vision problems; when taken with Vitamin C may reduce the symptoms of oral herpes.
 
QUERCETIN
A very potent bioflavonoid found in red wine, green tea, tomatoes, onions, and green beans. A natural anti-oxidant, which protects cells in the body from damage by "free radicals". Heart disease and high cholesterol is partially caused by free radical damage to blood vessels. May protect against heart attacks and strokes; recommended as a treatment for allergies, hay fever, and asthma because it helps prevent immune cells from releasing histamine, the chemical that initiates the itching, sneezing, and swelling of an allergic reaction; helps prevent itchy eyes, runny noses, and scratchy throats; in animal studies has shown to protect against a variety of cancers; may help stop cancer at its earliest stage by preventing the damaging changes in the cells that initiate cancer.
 
VITAMIN D
A deficiency plays a key role in the development of type 1 diabetes. Vitamin D is needed for islet cells to produce insulin, the hormone that allows cells to take up blood sugar. Without enough Vitamin D, islet cells don't produce insulin. Helps regulate white blood cells that make up the immune system; Vitamin D with calcium has shown to reduce osteoporosis and hip fractures; improves the absorption and utilization of calcium and phosphorus; hardens and repairs bones; prevents rickets, treats hypocalcaemia, and promotes normal growth in children; supports the healthy function of the thyroid gland; may help prevent colon cancer.
 
VITAMIN E
Is a "super" anti-oxidant, which protects cells against damage caused by "free radicals". Is extremely important in the prevention of cancer and cardiovascular disease, and is useful in treating premenstrual syndrome and fibrocystic disease of the breast. Thus far, studies have shown, that Vitamin E protects against approximately eighty diseases. It prevents thick scar formation when applied topically, and accelerates the healing of burns. It reduces blood pressure, aids in preventing cataracts, relieves leg cramps, and enhances sperm production; promotes healthy skin and hair and prevents age spots; retards cellular aging due to oxidation; prevents and dissolves blood clots; slows the progression of Alzheimer's disease; significantly strengthens the immune system; supplies oxygen to the blood which is then carried to the heart and other organs thus alleviating fatigue; treats circulatory problems and prevents lung toxicity from air pollution; enhances sexual performance; improves muscle strength and stamina. Studies have shown that low levels of Vitamin E in the blood increases the risk of certain types of cancer, particularly cancers of the gastrointestinal tract, breast, prostate, lung, and colon. Studies have shown that Vitamin E improves insulin action and it exerts a number of beneficial effects that aids in preventing long-term complications of diabetes, especially cardiovascular disease. Studies have shown that those who took Vitamin E on a regular basis had a 41 % lower risk of heart disease. Other studies have shown that people with existing heart disease, who started taking 400-800 IU of Vitamin E daily, had a 70% reduction in the number of heart attacks as compared to a placebo group.
 
 

Foods that are healthy for your HEART

The foods listed here are all top-performers in protecting your heart and blood vessels.

1. Salmon

Nutrients: Omega-3 fatty acids.

Recipe Idea: Grill salmon with a yummy rub or marinade. Save a chunk to chop for pasta or salad later on.r.

2. Flaxseed (ground)

Nutrients: Omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, phytoestrogens.

Recipe Idea: Ground flaxseed hides easily in all sorts of foods -- yogurt parfaits, morning cereal, homemade muffins, or cookies.

3. Oatmeal

Nutrients: Omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, potassium, folate, niacin, calcium, soluble fiber.

Recipe Idea: Top hot oatmeal with fresh berries. Oatmeal-and-raisin cookies are a hearty treat.

4. Black or Kidney Beans

Nutrients: B-complex vitamins, niacin, folate, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, soluble fiber.

Recipe Idea: Give soups or salads a nutrient boost -- stir in some beans.

5. Almonds

Nutrients: Plant omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, magnesium, fiber, heart-favorable mono- and polyunsaturated fats, phytosterols.

Recipe Idea: Mix a few almonds (and berries) into low-fat yogurt, trail mix, or fruit salads.

6. Walnuts

Nutrients: Plant omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, magnesium, folate, fiber, heart-favorable mono- and polyunsaturated fats, phytosterols.

Recipe Idea: Walnuts add flavorful crunch to salads, pastas, cookies, muffins, even pancakes.

7. Red Wine

Nutrients: Catechins and resveratrol (flavonoids).

Recipe Idea: Toast your good health! A glass of red wine could improve "good" HDL cholesterol.

8. Tuna

Nutrients: Omega-3 fatty acid, folate, niacin.

Recipe Idea: Here's lunch: Salad greens, fresh fruit, canned tuna. Keep "Salad Spritzer" - a light dressing -- in your office fridge.

9. Tofu

Nutrients: Niacin, folate, calcium, magnesium, potassium.

Recipe Idea: Tasty tofu is easy: Thinly slice "firm" tofu, marinate several hours, grill or stir-fry.

10. Brown Rice

Nutrients: B-complex vitamins, fiber, niacin, magnesium.

Recipe Idea: Microwavable brown rice makes a quick lunch. Stir in a few chopped veggies (broccoli, carrots, spinach).

11. Soy Milk

Nutrients: Isoflavones (a flavonoid), B-complex vitamins, niacin, folate, calcium, magnesium, potassium, phytoestrogens.

Recipe Idea: Soy milk is great over oatmeal or whole-grain cereal. Or, make a smoothie with soy milk.

12. Blueberries

Nutrients: Beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids), anthocyanin (a flavonoid), ellagic acid (a polyphenol), vitamin C, folate, calcium, magnesium, potassium, fiber.

Recipe Idea: Cranberries, strawberries, raspberries are nutrient-rich too -- for trail mixes, muffins, and salads!

13. Carrots

Nutrients: Alpha-carotene (a carotenoid), fiber.

Recipe Idea: Baby carrots are sweet for lunch. Sneak chopped or shredded carrots into spaghetti sauce or muffin batter.

14. Spinach

Nutrients: Beta-carotene (a carotenoid), Vitamins C and E, potassium, folate, calcium, fiber.

Recipe Idea: Pick spinach (not lettuce) for nutrient-packed salads and sandwiches.

15. Broccoli

Nutrients: Beta-carotene (a carotenoid), Vitamins C and E, potassium, folate, calcium, fiber.

Recipe Idea: Chop fresh broccoli into store-bought soup. For a veggie dip, try hummus (chickpeas).

16. Sweet Potato

Nutrients: Beta-carotene (a carotenoid), Vitamins C and E, potassium, folate, calcium, fiber.

Recipe Idea: Microwave in a zip-lock baggie for lunch. Eat au naturale, or with pineapple bits.

17. Red Bell Peppers

Nutrients: Beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids), B-complex vitamins, folate, potassium, fiber.

Recipe Idea: Rub with olive oil and grill or oven-roast until tender. Delicious in wraps, salads, and sandwiches.

18. Asparagus

Nutrients: Beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids), B-complex vitamins, folate, fiber.

Recipe Idea: Grill or steam slightly then dress with olive oil and lemon. It's a pretty side dish.

19. Oranges

Nutrients: Beta-cryptoxanthin, beta- and alpha-carotene, lutein (carotenoids) and flavones (flavonoids), vitamin C, potassium, folate, fiber.

Recipe Idea: Got orange juice? Check out the new nutrient-packed blends.

20. Tomatoes

Nutrients: Beta- and alpha-carotene, lycopene, lutein (carotenoids), vitamin C, potassium, folate, fiber.

Recipe Idea: For a flavor twist try oil-packed tomatoes in sandwiches, salads, pastas, and pizzas.

21. Acorn Squash

Nutrients: Beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids), B-complex and C vitamins, folate, calcium, magnesium, potassium, fiber.

Recipe Idea: Baked squash is comfort food on a chilly day. Serve with sauted spinach, pine nuts, and raisins.

22. Cantaloupe

Nutrients: Alpha- and beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids), B-complex and C vitamins, folate, potassium, fiber.

Recipe Idea: A fragrant ripe cantaloupe is perfect for breakfast, lunch, potluck dinners. Simply cut and enjoy!

23. Papaya

Nutrients: Beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, lutein (carotenoids), Vitamins C and E, folate, calcium, magnesium, potassium.

Recipe Idea: Serve papaya salsa with salmon: Mix papaya, pineapple, scallions, garlic, fresh lime juice, salt, and black pepper.

24. Dark Chocolate

Nutrients: Resveratrol and cocoa phenols (flavonoids).

Recipe Idea: A truffle a day lowers blood pressure, but choose 70% or higher cocoa content.

25. Tea

Nutrients: Catechins and flavonols (flavonoids).

Recipe Idea: Make sun tea. Combine a clear glass jar, several tea bags, and hours of sunshine.

information from http://www.webmd.com/

Chapped Lips

Attempting to find out the cause of severely chapped lips is never easy. There are various points of origin that you will have to research on and take notice of the results.

These are the ten most common causes of chronic chapped lips. Use them for a starting point in identifying the culprit!

1. Although we tend to overlook this one, toothpaste is a very common contributor to chapped lips. Most toothpastes contain what is called guaiazuline, which may cause a contact allergy.

2. Lipstick contains an ingredient called propyl gallate which can also cause a contact allergy.

3. Orange juice or any other juice from citrus fruits can irritate your lips. A photo-toxic reaction can occur that looks like chapped lips.

4. Red dye is in many products that we all use. Candy, lozenges, gum, mouthwash, etc. all contain red dye that may cause allergies.

5. Various other lip care products besides lipstick are also a point of interest when it comes to pin-pointing allergic reactions. Many contain Phenylsalicylate (salol) which may be the cause.

6. Too much vitamin A may also be the culprit behind your peeling lips. It does not matter if the source of your vitamin A comes from whole foods or supplements, if you are taking in more than 25,000 I.U. per day then you might want to take a closer look at this.

7. In addition to excessive vitamin A, your body may be taking in too much Vitamin B12 supplements. What happens is that you develop an allergy to cobalt from taking your B12 supplements and causes crusty and swollen lips.

8. Cinnamon flavoring can also cause lip chapping. This flavoring is found in candy, gum, mouthwashes, etc.

9. Eating too many figs can also cause your allergic reaction due to photo-toxicity.

10. And interestingly enough, metal objects like paper clips and pocket change is a very likely cause of chronic chapped lips. An allergic reaction may show itself on your lips.

information from www.Vitaminstohealth.com