Monthly Archives: March 2011

Symptoms of Vitamin D Toxicity

Vitamin D is also known as the ‘sunshine vitamin’ and belongs to the group of fat soluble vitamins. It is also considered as a prohormone, or a precursor to hormone and is the only vitamin that can be naturally synthesized by human skin on exposure to the ultraviolet radiation of sunlight. It is mainly required by our body to maintain the normal level of blood calcium and phosphorus. By facilitating the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, vitamin D ensures proper growth of bones and teeth. It strengthens the immune system and is available in two main forms, ergocalciferol or vitamin D2 and cholecalciferol or vitamin D3. A deficiency of vitamin D can impair the normal absorption of calcium and phosphorus and is known to cause rickets in children and osteomalacia and osteoporosis in adults.

Vitamin D Toxicity
A deficiency of vitamin D can either result from inadequate exposure to sunlight or insufficient dietary intake as well as absorption. Sometimes, even if it is absorbed, the body cannot convert it to an active form, mainly in conditions like liver, kidney and hereditary diseases. In addition to these, older individuals are more likely to suffer from vitamin D deficiency, as the ability of the skin to produce this vitamin declines with advancing age. Therefore, many individuals have to take supplementation of vitamin D to meet the daily requirement.

But most of the people taking vitamin D supplementation are unaware of the fact that this vitamin can be toxic if present in higher than the required amount. This is known as vitamin D toxicity, which can result either from a single overdose of supplementation or intake of small doses for a prolonged time period. Vitamin D toxicity or higher level of vitamin in the body can give rise to some really serious consequences or side effects. Here is an account of some of these problems as well as the symptoms of vitamin D toxicity.

Symptoms of Vitamin D Toxicity
When the level of vitamin D increases in the body, it also raises the level of calcium in blood. The obvious result of this condition is hypercalcemia or presence of abnormally high level of calcium in blood. Hypercalcemia is responsible for producing most of the symptoms of vitamin D toxicity. The early vitamin D toxicity symptoms include, gastrointestinal disorders like anorexia, diarrhea, constipation, nausea and vomiting. Bone pain, drowsiness, continuous headache, irregular heart beat, loss of appetite, muscle and joint pain are some other early symptoms that are likely to appear within few days or weeks after a vitamin D overdose.

The individuals are also likely to experience alternating periods of constipation and diarrhea due to the presence of excessive vitamin D. Frequent urination, especially at night, excessive thirst, weakness, nervousness and itching are some other common vitamin D toxicity symptoms. Kidney diseases have been found to be commonly associated with severe vitamin D toxicity, which can lead to elevated protein level in blood, formation of urinary casts and kidney stones, abnormal level of calcium in urine. Vitamin D toxicity have been also found to increase the risk of ischaemic heart disease. An overdose for a very long period can lead to the development of calcium crystals in the soft tissues of the body. High blood pressure and kidney failure are the main complications associated with vitamin D toxicity.

Though our skin can synthesize vitamin D in the presence of sunlight, prolonged exposure to sunlight cannot cause toxicity. Toxicity is also less likely to be produced by the intake of vitamin D rich foods like salmon, mackerel, tuna, sardines, soy products, seaweeds, legumes, beans, and milk and dairy products. The most important risk factor for vitamin D toxicity is taking vitamin supplements. So adequate precautionary measures should be followed while taking vitamin D supplementation. Individuals taking vitamin D supplementation should consult a physician regarding the appropriate or safe doses of vitamin D and remain vigilant for the symptoms of toxicity.

Symptoms of Low Vitamin D Levels

It was during the early years of the twentieth century that researchers found that the disease that affects bone development in children could be prevented by using a compound in cod liver oil. They termed this compound as ‘fat-soluble factor D’, which later came to be known as vitamin D. This vitamin is otherwise known as ‘calciferol’, owing to its ability to boost the calcium deposits in the bones. Vitamin D is a group of prohormones – a precursor to a hormone, usually having minimal hormonal effect by itself. The two major forms of vitamin D which are vital for the human body are vitamin D2 and vitamin D3. The former, which is synthesized by plants is otherwise known as ergocalciferol, and the latter, synthesized by the human body, is known as as cholecalciferol.

Functions of Vitamin D
One of the major biologic functions of vitamin D is to control and maintain the levels of calcium and phosphorous in the blood. This vitamin is responsible for the absorption of calcium and phosphorous from the food in the intestines. It also enables the kidneys to reabsorb calcium, which in turn facilitates the normal mineralization of the bones. Vitamin D is vital for bone growth too. This vitamin is also beneficial in invigorating the immune system and for normal cellular growth and function. Low vitamin D levels in the blood can lead to many diseases.

Symptoms of Low Vitamin D Levels
Insufficient Vitamin D levels occur due to various reasons. It may be due to a diet, which is very low in this vitamin, along with inadequate exposure to sunlight. Another reason for low vitamin D levels is the body’s inability to absorb this vitamin, owing to some medical conditions, diseases and disorders. Conditions like liver and kidney disorders can prevent the conversion of vitamin D to its active metabolites. Some hereditary disorders can also hinder this conversion process. However, low vitamin D levels in the blood can lead to some diseases. The following are the symptoms of low vitamin D levels.
Vitamin D deficiency can exist in two forms. One is the mild form, characterized by mild symptoms like loss of appetite, weight loss, diarrhea, insomnia, vision problems, and burning sensation in the mouth and the throat.
Severe vitamin D deficiency can develop symptoms like muscle pain, fatigue, depression, low immunity, weaker bones susceptible to fractures. This condition can lead to rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. It is also suggested by researchers that low vitamin D levels can contribute to the development of osteoporosis.
It has been observed that the most common symptoms of low vitamin D levels is musculoskeletal pain, which is felt as a deep throbbing in the limbs. Another apparent symptom is dental problems, including periodontal diseases, caused by insufficient supply of calcium to the teeth.
Those who have vitamin D deficiency are also believed to have the additional risk of developing some types of cancer like breast, colon and ovarian cancer.
As the immune system is also affected by a low level of vitamin D, there are chances of contracting a number of other diseases. With a weak immune system the overall health can be affected.
It is always better to prevent the occurrence of this condition by adopting a diet containing high sources of vitamin D. If you are affected with this condition, it is also necessary to rule out the chances of some diseases and disorders which can cause this deficiency. If there is no such problem, then dietary supplements can be taken. If the condition is caused by any other disease or disorder, treatment should be taken to cure that disease.

Procerin Is An All Natural Hair Growth Vitamin

Until recently male pattern was a great problem and was perceived inevitable. But due to the advancement of medical science, there are various products that promise to treat this problem for good. But very few medicines have the scientific proof that Procerin have. It is a natural process to treat hair loss in males and many customers has submitted positive reviews to the product. It is a therapy for treating thinning of hair and hair loss problem.

Procerin is actually a vitamin for hairs loss supplement and serum blended properly with herbs and minerals. It is scientifically formulated to block the production of Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the primary cause of hair loss in males. A natural enzyme 5-alpha reductase is responsible for converting male hormone testosterone into DHT. Procerin is an all natural DHT inhibitor to use internally in order to stop hair loss and hair growth as well.

Some of the features of Procerin are as follows-
Combats hair loss effectively.
Rejuvenates the hair follicles resulting in thicker and stronger hair.
Inhibits DHT and lowers its productions.
Safe and mild on the hair scalps of men.
Works significantly on the front of scalp and on the crown.

Its benefits are maximum for younger men especially those who are from 18 yrs to 40 yrs and also for those whose hairs are at growing phase. As human hair grows slowly, it is suggested that men using Procerin should use for atleast 2-3months for experiencing the expected results. Clinically it has been found that the results derived from Procerin is much faster than most of its existing counterparts.

The notable thing about Procerin is that it is an over the counter medicine that is no prescription is needed for its usage. It signifies that the drug is harmless and side affects are negligible. But, it is unlikely to help individuals whose hair loss is due to scalp trauma, androgenetic areata, chemotherapy and non DHT related causes. So it will be wise for one to consult a dermatologist and get confirm about its proper usage.

One good thing about Procerin products is that if any one is not satisfied with the medicine, all the products can be returned within 90 days with all your money refund except the shipping charge. However, hardly you will be taking such steps for it really works.

Prevent Vitamin B12 Deficiency – Vitamin B12 Important Facts

Vitamin B12 helps maintain a healthy nervous system and is vital for production of the bodys red blood cells. It is also needed to help make DNA, the genetic material in all cells. If vitamin B12 deficiency occurs, DNA production is disrupted in the bone marrow and abnormal cells called megaloblasts occur. This leads to anemia.

When you have anemia, it means that your body is either not producing enough red blood cells or your existing red blood cells are not able to carry enough oxygen around in the blood stream. Red blood cells have a life span of about four months. Hence, your body needs vitamin B12 to produce new red blood cells and replace the old ones.
What are the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency?
Unusual tiredness, breathlessness (Due to reduced amounts of oxygen carried in the body)

Feeling faint, looking pale
Poor resistance to infection
A sore mouth and tongue
If left untreated, Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to nerves problems. Such symptoms include shaky movements and unsteady gait), muscle weakness, confusion and numbness.
What can be done to avoid vitamin B12 deficiency?
The human body stores several years’ worth of vitamin B12, so nutritional deficiency of this vitamin is rare. Although vitamin B12 is a water soluble vitamin, it is not excreted quickly in the urine. And even though the body only needs a small amount of vitamin B12 daily, it is not absorbed very well by the body. Hence, large amounts of the vitamin need to be supplied in the diet in order for the daily minimum to be absorbed. Vegetarians are most at risk because vitamin B12 is only found in food of animal origin such as meat, liver, poultry, fish and dairy products – but not in fruit or vegetables. A normal balanced diet usually contains enough vitamin B12.
The elderly are at risk also because a protein found in the stomach is needed to absorb the vitamin from the intestines and this protein production declines with age. About 10-15 percent of adults over 60 have some form of vitamin B12 deficiency. Because vitamin B12 is only found in food of animal origin, strict vegetarians and people over 55 years of age should consider some form of vitamin B12 supplements to avoid deficiency.
————Did you know that a study by the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) in June 2002 concluded that we don’t get enough nutrition from our diet alone? It recommends that all adults take a vitamin supplement daily to prevent chronic diseases, including cancer. For a complete nutritional supplementation program to live longer and better, visit http://health.worldwidebuilders.com

Oral Versus Vitamin Injections

Physicians frequently prescribe vitamin B12 supplements for patients suffering from a vitamin B12 deficiency and also for certain types of anemia. Vitamin B12 is widely available in three forms: pills, vitamin injections, and sublingual drop or sprays. Physicians tend to differ in their opinions as to which form of vitamin B12 is the most effective for their patients.

Vitamin B12 Shots
In the United States, Vitamin B12 shots are available by prescription only. The most typical dosing regimen is 1000mcg (micrograms) weekly for a four week period of time and then switching to once a month. To be certain that the shots are working effectively, physicians will order specific lab tests periodically. According to the American Family Physician website most physicians recommend vitamin B12 injections over vitamin B12 pills because it bypasses the stomach and begins to work quicker and more efficiently.

Vitamin B12 Pills
Vitamin B12 pills are easily available over the counter in the United States. They are available in various strengths with the most recommended daily dose of 2 micrograms per day. Most tablets contain approximately 100 to 200 micrograms per tablet and suggests one to three pills daily. The reason for such high oral doses is that the stomach tend to reduce absorption of vitamin B12 during the normal digestive process.

Benefits of Vitamin B12 Shots
A significant benefit of vitamin B12 shots is the quick absorption rate of the vitamin injections, which is more efficient than that of vitamin B12 pills. Another benefit is that many insurance companies will cover the cost of vitamin B12 injections as long as the physician submits a claim with a supporting diagnosis. In addition, once weekly or once monthly dosing can be more convenient than taking three daily oral doses of vitamin B12 pills. Many people who have difficulty swallowing pills naturally prefer the injectable form of vitamin B12.

Benefits of Vitamin B12 Pills
Because vitamin B12 pills are easily available over the counter in the local drugstore, supermarket or discount store they can allow individuals to treat themselves in lieu of frequent trips to the doctor. Also, many folks would prefer to take oral medications than have injections because of the pain factor.

Tips
If your physician recommends that you take a vitamin B12 supplement, be sure to thoroughly discuss with him which form of the vitamin he suggests you use in order to treat your condition. Take pricing into consideration when making your determination, including any portion that your insurance may cover. Always consult your primary physician prior to starting a vitamin supplement regime of any kind. Finally, have the recommended lab tests done at regular intervals so that your physician can periodically monitor your condition.

Now Foods Rendering Vitamin Supplements In A Natural Process

Now Foods Rendering Vitamin Supplements In A Natural Process

Coconut water is the fluid which is found inside a fresh coconut fruit. This sweet liquid multiplies the semen level and even helps in proper digestion. This acts as vitamin nutrients and helps in fruitful functioning of the urinary track. Sometimes this water is mistaken to be milk, where as both the liquids are different. While the former one seems to be normal water, the later one looks like milk and is also thicker than the former one. Coconut water is rich in nutrient substitutes as it comprises of vitamins and minerals, thereby becoming a healthy beverage. This now foods are rich in minerals such as potassium, magnesium, calcium, chloride and sodium. It is also rich in sugar and protein elements. Undoubtedly, it can be consumed as a healthy drink and this beverage is ideal for people, who are conscious about their health, as this is undoubtedly fat free. The mineral content always remains constant, but the protein and the sugar concentrations get increased with the growth of the fruit simultaneously.
Coconut water contains varied number of nutrient elements as well as minerals in trace amounts. These trace minerals are not found in other fruits and vegetables. This tree is usually found in the coastal areas. In some islands, this liquid can be considered to be the only available fluid, which is consumed by the residents. This is also referred as fluid of life. However, the taste varies depending upon the age of the fruit. The liquid content of the green colored fruit is the best in taste and quality. This now foods are recommended by every dietitian for the patients, as their mineral contents provide stamina to the body. The demand of this natural health drink has ultimately led to the manufacturing of young fruit’s liquid. This drink is also available in tetra pack and bottled containers. The authoress is an experienced Content writer and publisher on the topics related to now foods and coconut water. Related Articles – now foods, coconut water, Email this Article to a Friend!Receive Articles like this one direct to your email box!Subscribe for free today!

New Research Vitamin D Supplements could help fight Crohn’s Disease

New Research Vitamin D Supplements could help fight Crohn’s Disease

ILS Health Store http://myghcstore.com/ils http://21longhead.allinonehealth.com/ New Research: Vitamin D Supplements could help fight Crohns Disease According to a new study coming out of Canada, Vitamin d supplements have shown the ability to counter the negative effects associated with Crohns disease. Recommended Vitamin D SupplementA team of researchers from McGill University Health Centre in Montreal suggest that if you suffer from Crohns Disease, having a deficiency in vitamin d can actually make it worse. To help with Crohns, it is suggested you get more sun or take a supplement to help fight off the deficiency. Marc J. Servant, professor and collaborator on this project: This discovery is exciting, since it shows how an over-the-counter supplement such as Vitamin D could help people defend themselves against Crohns disease. We have identified a new treatment avenue for people with Crohns disease or other inflammatory bowel diseases. What is Crohns Disease Crohns disease is a common disorder that causes inflammation and swelling in your digestive tract. This can cause severe abdominal pain, rectal bleeding and diarrhea. It can also cause you to have an excessive amount of bowel movements in a given day, sometimes over twenty! Diagnosing Crohns can sometimes be hard, because it is so similar to both Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Ulcerative Colitis. There is also no specific age group for Crohns disease. It is most commonly diagnosed in people between the ages of 20-30, but can still affect young and old.
The Benefits of Vitamin D This new research is very important because there are many foods containing vitamin d, but the best source of vitamin d is from the sun. Just 15 minutes of sun a day can provide you with as much vitamin d as your body needs. Alternatively, there are many vitamin d supplements currently on the market, but I would only recommend taking Vitamin D3 Serum. If you cant get enough sun everyday, I would highly recommend you take D3 Serum. Thank U. ILS Health Store http://myghcstore.com/ils http://21longhead.allinonehealth.com/ var ref= escape(document.referrer); document.write(”); Related Articles – Vitamin D, Supplements, help fight, Crohns Disease, Email this Article to a Friend!Receive Articles like this one direct to your email box!Subscribe for free today!

Multi Vitamin For Men Provides Essential Vitamins And Minerals

Every man deserves the minerals and vitamins that may aid in making your body run to the fullest potential, they way it should. It is a sure thing that almost all men do not receive the needed vitamins and minerals on a daily schedule in order to be healthy. Multi Vitamin is a one tablet a day formula that contains a number of vitamins and minerals which can make you a more healthy man. For men today, physical activity is a must, whether it is working to support a family, or taking care of things around the house, multivitamin for men provides ingredients that can help make you feel more energetic and healthier than ever. Prostate problems when it comes to men are as common as one in three, but taking Multi Vitamin can give your body vitamins that can help prostate health. Lycopene and Saw Palmetto are active ingredients that are natural herbs and have been used for centuries to prevent prostate problems as well as increase urinary tract health. This complete multivitamin works towards increasing the chemistry of all men. Other ingredients included in Multi Vitamin are Iron which takes a part in hemoglobin, the enzyme in your body that carries oxygen in your blood. With a lower than average amount of iron, oxygen in blood decreases making you feel fatigued. Magnesium is needed for protein, bone, and the formation of fatty acids. Zinc is an ingredient that allows your body to repair wounds and to also maintain fertility in men. These are just a few of the ingredients in this multivitamin formula, but so many more can make you feel more healthy. By taking 1 tablet a day as a dietary supplement with water and food, you may ensure a healthy way to heighten your natural vitamins and mineral count throughout your entire body.Provide yourself with the vitamins and minerals you need by purchasing Multi Vitamin from http://www.smarthealthshop.com Visit Multi Vitamin For Men Provides Essential Vitamins And Minerals.
Related Articles – Multi Vitamin, multivitamin for men, Lycopene and Saw Palmetto, complete multivitamin, multivitamin formula, Email this Article to a Friend!Receive Articles like this one direct to your email box!Subscribe for free today!

More Research Links Low Vitamin D and Cancer

A new look at the way cancer develops suggests that low vitamin D levels enable the spread of the disease. A study by the Moores Cancer Center at the University of California San Diego has produced a new model of cancer development. The currently-accepted model of cancer development considers genetic mutations to be the basis of cancer, while the new model proposes that a loss of communication between cells is the key event in the development of cancer and low levels of vitamin D could be at least partially responsible. The researchers say communication between cells is crucial to healthy cell turnover but low vitamin D and calcium levels can disrupt that communication, allowing aggressive cancer cells to take over. According to study leader Cedric Garland, DrPH, this cellular disruption is the earliest stage of many cancers. Though as yet there is no definitive scientific support for the new model of cancer development, the authors of the study say that maintaining adequate levels of vitamin D could potentially stop the development of cancer at it very earliest stages. The team who produced this study has been investigating the tie between vitamin D and cancer since the 1990s. Their work has demonstrated an association between low vitamin D and breast cancer, as well as a link between increased levels of the vitamin and a lower risk for a variety of cancers.
A 2006 British study of vitamin D and breast cancer appears to support these findings. Researchers from the Imperial College London tracked levels of the vitamin in 279 women with invasive breast cancer. Those in the earlier stages of the disease had significantly higher blood levels of the vitamin than did those in the advanced stages and the study concluded that lowered levels of vitamin D may promote the progression of cancer. The importance of vitamin D in the development of cancer was further confirmed by a 2009 study by Sylvia Chistakos, Ph.D., of the UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School. Her research, published in The Journal of Biological Chemistry, showed that the active form of vitamin D induces the production of a protein that can inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells. For more of the latest information on vitamin D and cancer, visit Vitamin D Benefits. Related Articles – vitamin, D, cancer, Email this Article to a Friend!Receive Articles like this one direct to your email box!Subscribe for free today!

Mastering the Multi Vitamin – How to Make Vitamins Work

Mastering the Multi Vitamin – How to Make Vitamins Work For You

Do you take any vitamins, minerals, supplements, tablets or pills? Do you have any sitting at the back of your cupboard that you once bought and took for three days? After I big cleanup of my cabinets I lined up all the tonics and tablets that I have collected over the years (thinking that they would solve my flu, stress, joint pain, tiredness and other ailments) and realized that I really knew very little about how they could actually help me, so I decided to find out: Multivitamins have met with a mixed reaction over the years, but the basic logic behind them is that they help to provide the vitamins and minerals that our bodies need but can’t produce enough of by themselves.We all know that vitamins and minerals are needed to balance metabolism and promote general well being. What may not be such common knowledge is that a single deficiency of any vitamin or mineral can endanger the whole body.Of course the best way to get enough vitamins is to eat a healthy and balanced diet, and taking a multivitamin is not an excuse to skip healthy foods and a balanced diet and live on junk food! The problem is that few of us do actually get a truly balanced diet, in fact according to research done in America, not one person out of a survey of 21,000 people obtained 100% of the recommended daily allowance of ten basic nutrients!So it seems like there may be a real need for most of us to supplement our diets with some sort of vitamin, but one look at the supermarket aisle packed with bottles full of conflicting solutions can tell us that finding the right vitamin solution is not that simple.The great thing about multivitamins is that everything comes in one bottle and you only have to take one product. To get the best results however, a good multivitamin should include the full range of vitamins and minerals needed to meet essential nutritional needs. Generally this will include vitamins A, B, C, D, E and B6 as well as zinc, calcium, magnesium, and iron. It is also important that the multivitamin is formulated to be easily be absorbed by your body. So when you decide which vitamin to purchase make sure the one that you choose includes all of these.
Taking something like this along with a good diet should give you antioxidant protection, immune systems support, promotion of cardiovascular health, blood sugar metabolism support, and bone nutrition at the very least.If you are trying to become pregnant you should also ensure that your vitamin includes folic acid, or else you should include a separate supplement of folic acid.There are several multi vitamins that do provide a complete solution although not as many as you think, seeing as how many are one the shelves! My recommendation is Pharmanex LifePak (or LikePak Prime if you are over 50 years old) because it is a high quality and also a complete solution, but there are plenty of other great selections on the market. Just make sure that the vitamin you do chose is of high quality. A good way to test this is by doing a little research; there are several independent publications around that rate vitamins on a five star rating system. I would definitely not chose anything below a three star rating although of course the higher the better.About the authorSue Cooper provides article marketing for Adventures In Weightloss, an Australian weight loss company whereby clients benefit from a medically designed personalised program which guarantees weightloss success. Check out their weight loss success stories. Related Articles – multi-vitamins, supplements, vitamins, minerals, Email this Article to a Friend!Receive Articles like this one direct to your email box!Subscribe for free today!