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Category Archives: Supplements
Vitamin B12 deficiency
Vitamin B12 deficiency
Vitamin B12 deficiency causes
· Decreased intake
o Inadequate diet, vegetarianism
· Impaired absorption
o Intrinsic factor deficiency
Pernicious anemia
Gastrectomy
o Malabsorption states
o Diffuse intestinal disease
Lymphoma
Systemic sclerosis
o Ileal resection, ileitis
o Competitive parasitic uptake
Fish tapeworm infestation
o Bacterial overgrowth in blind loops and diverticula of bowel
· Increased requirement
o Pregnancy
o Hyperthyroidism
o Disseminated cancer
Vitamin B12 deficiency pathology
· Megaloblastic anemia
o Pancytopenia with erythrocyte anisocytosis and normochromasia
o Erythrocytes are macrocytic and oval with MCVs greater than 100fl (normal 82-98 fl)
o Low numbers of reticulocytes with nucleated red cells in circulation
o Neutrophils are larger than normal and hypersegmented (5-6 or more nuclear lobules)
o Hypercellular marrow with precursors from all three lineages
o Promegaloblasts in marrow are large, with a deeply basophilic cytoplasm, prominent nucleoli, and fine nuclear chromatin pattern
o Maturation of the erythroid line is disrupted; cytoplasm develops eosinophilia due to accumulation of hemoglobin, but nuclei continue to maintain a fine chromatin pattern, and remain large and immature instead of becoming more pyknotic
o Giant metamyelocytes and band forms are seen in granulocytic line
o Megakaryocytes display large, bizarre, multilobated nuclei
· Diffuse chronic gastritis (in cases of pernicious anemia/autoimmune gastritis)
o Atrophy of fundic glands; affects both chief and parietal cells, the latter being virtually absent
o Lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate seen within gastric mucosa
o Glandular lining epithelium is replaced by mucus-secreting goblet cells (“intestinalization”)
o Some cells appear larger than normal with an increase in nuclear size to double the normal size
· Central nervous system lesions
o Spinal cord demonstrates degeneration of the dorsal and lateral tracts with axonal loss giving rise to spastic paraparesis, sensory ataxia, and paresthesias
o Less commonly degenerative changes are seen in the ganglia of the posterior roots and peripheral nerves
Zinc
Zinc
Zinc Supplement
Zinc Information
Zinc is an essential mineral that is a component of more than 300 enzymes needed to repair wounds, maintain fertility in adults and growth in children, synthesize protein, help cells reproduce, preserve vision, boost immunity, and protect against free radicals, among other functions.
Zinc Sources
Good sources of zinc include oysters, meat, eggs, seafood, black-eyed peas, tofu, and wheat germ.
Zinc Treatments
Acne Acrodermatitis enteropathica Childhood intelligence (for deficiency) Common cold/sore throat (as lozenges) Down s syndrome Infertility (male) (for deficiency) Night blindness (for deficiency) Wilson s disease Wound healing (oral and topical) Anemia (for thalassemia if deficient) Anorexia nervosa Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder Birth defects prevention Canker sores (for deficiency only) Celiac disease (for deficiency) Cold sores (topical) Common cold (as nasal spray) Crohn s disease Genital herpes Gingivitis (zinc plus bloodroot toothpaste) Halitosis (zinc chloride rinse or toothpaste) Hepatitis C (zinc-L-carnosine) HIV support Immune function (for elderly people) Infection Liver cirrhosis (for deficiency) Macular degeneration Peptic ulcer Pregnancy support Rheumatoid arthritis Sickle cell anemia Skin ulcers (oral and topical zinc) Sprains and strains (if deficient) Tinnitus (for deficiency only) Type 1 diabetes Type 2 diabetes (preferably for those with a documented deficiency) Warts Amenorrhea Athletic performance Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) Contact dermatitis Cystic fibrosis Dermatitis herpetiformis (for deficiency) Diarrhea Ear infections (recurrent) Gastritis Gestational hypertension Goiter Hypoglycemia Hypothyroidism Immune function (for non-elderly people) Insulin resistance syndrome (Syndrome X) Osgood-Schlatter Disease Osteoarthritis (in combination with boswellia, ashwagandha, and turmeric) Osteoporosis Pre- and post-surgery health Preeclampsia Prostatitis (CBP, NBP)
Zinc Symptoms
Zinc deficiencies are quite common in people living in poor countries. Phytate, a substance found in unleavened bread (pita, matzos, and some crackers) significantly reduces absorption of zinc, increasing the chance of zinc deficiency. However, phytate-induced deficiency of zinc appears to be a significant problem only for people already consuming marginally low amounts of zinc. Even in developed countries, low-income pregnant women and pregnant teenagers are at risk for marginal zinc deficiencies. Supplementing with 25-30 mg per day improves pregnancy outcome in these groups. People with liver cirrhosis appear to be commonly deficient in zinc. This deficiency may be due to cirrhosis-related zinc malabsorption. People with Down s syndrome are also commonly deficient in zinc. Giving zinc supplements to children with Down s syndrome has been reported to improve impaired immunity and thyroid function, though optimal intake of zinc for people with Down s syndrome remains unclear. Children with alopecia areata (patchy areas of hair loss) have been reported to be deficient in zinc. The average diet frequently provides less than the Recommended Dietary Allowance for zinc, particularly in vegetarians. To what extent (if any) these small deficits in zinc intake create clinical problems remains unclear. Nonetheless, a low-potency supplement (15 mg per day) can fill in dietary gaps. Zinc deficiencies are more common in alcoholics and people with sickle cell anemia, malabsorption problems, and chronic kidney disease.
Zinc Side Effects
Zinc intake in excess of 300 mg per day has been reported to impair immune function. Some people report that zinc lozenges lead to stomach ache, nausea, mouth irritation, and a bad taste. One source reports that gastrointestinal upset, metallic taste in the mouth, blood in the urine, and lethargy can occur from chronic oral zinc supplementation over 150 mg per day, but those claims are unsubstantiated. In topical form, zinc has no known side effects when used as recommended. However, using zinc nasal spray has been reported to cause severe or complete loss of smell function in at least ten people. In some of those cases, the loss of smell was long-lasting or permanent. Preliminary research had suggested that people with Alzheimer s disease should avoid zinc supplements. More recently, preliminary evidence in four patients actually showed improved mental function with zinc supplementation. In a convincing review of zinc/Alzheimer s disease research, perhaps the most respected zinc researcher in the world concluded that zinc does not cause or exacerbate Alzheimer s disease symptoms. Zinc inhibits copper absorption. Copper deficiency can result in anemia, lower levels of HDL ( good) cholesterol, or cardiac arrhythmias. Copper intake should be increased if zinc supplementation continues for more than a few days (except for people with Wilson s disease). Some sources recommend a 10:1 ratio of zinc to copper. Evidence suggests that no more that 2 mg of copper per day is needed to prevent zinc-induced copper deficiency. Many zinc supplements include copper in the formulation to prevent zinc-induced copper deficiency. Zinc-induced copper deficiency has been reported to cause reversible anemia and suppression of bone marrow. Marginal zinc deficiency may be a contributing factor in some cases of anemia. In a study of women with normocytic anemia (i.e., their red blood cells were of normal size) and low total iron-binding capacity (a blood test often used to assess the cause of anemia), combined iron and zinc supplementation significantly improved the anemia, whereas iron or zinc supplemented alone had only slight effects. Supplementation with zinc, or zinc and iron together, has been found to improve vitamin A status among children at high risk for deficiency of the three nutrients. Zinc competes for absorption with copper, iron, calcium, and magnesium. A multimineral supplement will help prevent mineral imbalances that can result from taking high amounts of zinc for extended periods of time. N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) may increase urinary excretion of zinc. Long-term users of NAC may consider adding supplements of zinc and copper. Certain medicines may interact with zinc. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.
Xylitol
Xylitol
Xylitol Supplement
Xylitol Information
Xylitol is the alcohol form of xylose, which is used as a sweetener in chewing gums and other dietetic products. Xylitol has less effect on blood sugar or insulin levels compared with sucrose, so it may be a useful sugar substitute for diabetics. In addition, xylitol inhibits the growth of several types of bacteria, including those that cause tooth decay and ear infections.
Xylitol Sources
Xylitol occurs naturally in straw, corncobs, fruit, vegetables, cereals, mushrooms, and some seaweeds. For use in food manufacturing, xylitol is extracted from birch wood chips. Xylitol may be found in many foods labeled as “sugar-free,” including hard candies, cookies, chewing gums, soft drinks, and throat lozenges.
Xylitol Treatments
Ear infections Tooth decay
Xylitol Symptoms
Xylitol is not an essential nutrient; therefore, no deficiencies are possible.
Xylitol Side Effects
Xylitol is recognized as a safe food additive by the U.S. government. Large amounts (30 to 40 grams) taken all at once can produce diarrhea and intestinal gas. At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with xylitol.
Whey Protein
Whey Protein
Whey Protein Supplement
Whey Protein Information
Whey protein is a mixture of some of the proteins naturally found in milk. The major proteins found in whey protein include beta-lactoglobulin and alpha-lactalbumin. Whey protein has one of the highest protein digestibility-corrected amino acid scores (PDCAAS; a measure of protein bioavailability) and is more rapidly digested than other proteins, such as casein (another milk protein).
Whey Protein Sources
During the process of making milk into cheese, whey protein is separated from the milk. This whey protein is then incorporated into ice cream, bread, canned soup, infant formulas, and other food products. Supplements containing whey protein are also available.
Whey Protein Treatments
Athletic performance Cancer Hepatitis HIV infection Immune function Osteoporosis Stress Weight loss and obesity
Whey Protein Symptoms
People who do not include dairy foods in their diets do not consume whey protein. However, the amino acids in whey protein are available from other sources, and a deficiency of these amino acids is unlikely. People who do not include dairy foods in their diets do not consume whey protein. However, the amino acids in whey protein are available from other sources, and a deficiency of these amino acids is unlikely. In fact, most Americans consume too much, rather than too little, protein.
Whey Protein Side Effects
People who are allergic to dairy products could react to whey protein and should, therefore, avoid it. As with protein in general, long-term, excessive intake may be associated with deteriorating kidney function and possibly osteoporosis. However, neither kidney nor bone problems have been directly associated with consumption of whey protein, and the other dietary sources of protein typically contribute more protein to the diet than does whey protein. The possibility that certain proteins in milk may contribute to the development of diabetes in children is controversial. But since whey proteins include some of the same milk proteins, people who are avoiding milk because of concerns about the risk of diabetes should not consume whey protein either. At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with whey protein.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K
Vitamin K Supplement
Vitamin K Information
Vitamin K is needed for proper bone formation and blood clotting. In both cases, vitamin K does this by helping the body transport calcium. Vitamin K is used by doctors when treating an overdose of the drug warfarin. Also, doctors prescribe vitamin K to prevent excessive bleeding in people taking warfarin but requiring surgery.
Vitamin K Sources
Leafy green vegetables, such as spinach, kale, collards, and broccoli, are the best sources of vitamin K. The greener the plant, the higher the vitamin K content. Other significant dietary sources of vitamin K include soybean oil, olive oil, cottonseed oil, and canola oil.
Vitamin K Treatments
Celiac disease (for deficiency only) Crohn s disease Cystic fibrosis Osteoporosis Acute myeloid leukemia (vitamin K2 only) Morning sickness Myelodysplastic syndromes (vitamin K2 only) Phenylketonuria (if deficient)
Vitamin K Symptoms
A vitamin K deficiency, which causes uncontrolled bleeding, is rare, except in people with certain malabsorption diseases. However, there are reports of severe vitamin K deficiency developing in hospitalized patients who had poor food intake and were receiving antibiotics. All newborn infants receive vitamin K to prevent deficiencies that sometimes develop in breast-fed infants.
Vitamin K Side Effects
Allergic reactions to vitamin K injections have been reported on rare occasions. Vitamin K facilitates the effects of calcium in building bone and proper blood clotting. Certain medicines may interact with vitamin K. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E
Vitamin E Supplement
Vitamin E Information
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects cell membranes and other fat-soluble parts of the body, such as low-density lipoprotein (LDL; bad cholesterol) cholesterol, from damage.
Vitamin E Sources
Wheat germ oil, nuts and seeds, whole grains, egg yolks, and leafy green vegetables all contain vitamin E. Certain vegetable oils should contain significant amounts of vitamin E. However, many of the vegetable oils sold in supermarkets have had the vitamin E removed in processing. The high amounts found in supplements, often 100 to 800 IU per day, are not obtainable from eating food.
Vitamin E Treatments
Anemia (if deficient) Burns (in combination with vitamin C for prevention of sunburn only) Epilepsy (for children) Immune function (for elderly people) Intermittent claudication Rheumatoid arthritis Tardive dyskinesia Alzheimer s disease Anemia (injections for thalassemia, orally for glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency [G6PD] anemia and anemia caused by kidney dialysis) Angina Atherosclerosis Athletic performance (for exercise recovery and high-altitude exercise performance only) Bronchitis Cold sores Dermatitis herpetiformis Down s syndrome Dysmenorrhea Endometriosis (in combination with vitamin C) Hay fever Heart attack (at 400 to 800 IU of natural vitamin E) High blood pressure Leukoplakia Lung cancer (reduces risk) Osgood-Schlatter disease Osteoarthritis Pancreatic insufficiency Parkinson s disease (in combination with vitamin C) Preeclampsia (in combination with vitamin C; for high risk only) Premenstrual syndrome Prostate cancer (reduces risk) Radiation therapy (side-effect prevention in people with cancer of the oral cavity) Retinopathy (diabetic retinopathy and retrolental fibroplasia) Skin ulcers (oral vitamin E) Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes (for glucose tolerance and prevention of diabetic retinopathy) Wound healing Yellow nail syndrome Abnormal pap smear Age-related cognitive decline (ARCD) Alcohol withdrawal support Burns (minor) (topical) Cataracts Childhood diseases Colon cancer (reduces risk) Cystic fibrosis Dupuytren s contracture Epilepsy (for adults) Fibrocystic breast disease Fibromyalgia Goiter Halitosis (if gum disease and deficient) Hepatitis High cholesterol HIV support Hypoglycemia Infertility (female) Infertility (male) Insulin resistance syndrome (Syndrome X) Kidney stones (prevention) Liver cirrhosis Lupus Macular degeneration Menopause Menorrhagia (heavy menstruation) Photosensitivity Pre- and post-surgery health Restless legs syndrome Retinopathy (abetalipoproteinemia) Retinopathy (in combination with selenium, vitamin A, and vitamin C) Shingles Sickle cell anemia Skin ulcers (topical vitamin E) Sprains and strains (for exercise-related muscle strain) Stroke Type 2 diabetes (for abetalipoproteinemia) Vaginitis
Vitamin E Symptoms
Severe vitamin E deficiencies are rare. People with a genetic defect in a vitamin E transfer protein called thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) have severe vitamin E deficiency, characterized by low blood and tissue levels of vitamin E and progressive nerve abnormalities. Low vitamin E status has been associated with an increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis and major depression. Women with preeclampsia have been found to have lower blood levels of vitamin E than women without the condition. Very old people with type 2 diabetes have shown a significant age-related decline in blood levels of vitamin E, irrespective of their dietary intake.
Vitamin E Side Effects
Vitamin E toxicity is very rare and supplements are widely considered to be safe. The National Academy of Sciences has established the daily tolerable upper intake level for adults to be 1,000 mg of vitamin E, which is equivalent to 1,500 IU of natural vitamin E or 1,100 IU of synthetic vitamin E. In a double-blind study of healthy elderly people, supplementation with 200 IU of vitamin E per day for 15 months had no effect in the incidence of respiratory infections, but increased the severity of those infections that did occur. For elderly individuals, the risks and benefits of taking this vitamin should be assessed with the help of a doctor or nutritionist. In contrast to trials suggesting vitamin E improves glucose tolerance in people with diabetes, one trial reported that 600 IU per day of vitamin E led to impairment in glucose tolerance in obese people with diabetes. The reason for the discrepancy between reports is not known. In a double-blind study of people with established heart disease or diabetes, participants who took 400 IU of vitamin E per day for an average of 4.5 years developed heart failure significantly more often than did those taking a placebo. Hospitalizations for heart failure occurred in 5.8% of those in the vitamin E group, compared with 4.2% of those in the placebo group, a 38.1% increase. Considering that some other studies have shown a beneficial effect of vitamin E against heart disease, the results of this study are difficult to interpret. Nevertheless, individuals with heart disease or diabetes should consult their doctor before taking vitamin E. A review of 19 clinical trials of vitamin E supplementation concluded that long-term use of large amounts of vitamin E (400 IU per day or more) was associated with a small (4%) but statistically significant increase in risk of death. Long-term use of less than 400 IU per day was associated with a small and statistically nonsignificant reduction in death rates. This research has been criticized because many of the studies on which it was based used a combination of nutritional supplements, not just vitamin E. For example, the adverse effects reported in some of the studies may have been due to the use of large amounts of zinc or synthetic beta-carotene, and may have had nothing to do with vitamin E. It is also possible that long-term use of large amounts of pure alpha-tocopherol may lead to a deficiency of gamma-tocopherol, with potential negative consequences. For that reason, some doctors recommend that people who need to take large amounts of vitamin E take at least part of it in the form of mixed tocopherols. Patients on kidney dialysis who are given injections of iron frequently experience oxidative stress. This is because iron is a pro-oxidant, meaning that it interacts with oxygen molecules in ways that may damage tissues. These adverse effects of iron therapy may be counteracted by supplementation with vitamin E. A diet high in unsaturated fat increases vitamin E requirements. Vitamin E and selenium work together to protect fat-soluble parts of the body. Certain medicines may interact with vitamin E. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D
Vitamin D Supplement
Vitamin D Information
The fat-soluble vitamin D s most important role is maintaining blood levels of calcium, which it accomplishes by increasing absorption of calcium from food and reducing urinary calcium loss. Both effects keep calcium in the body and therefore spare the calcium that is stored in bones. When necessary, vitamin D transfers calcium from the bone into the bloodstream, which does not benefit bones. Although the overall effect of vitamin D on the bones is complicated, some vitamin D is necessary for healthy bones and teeth.
Vitamin D Sources
Cod liver oil is an excellent dietary source of vitamin D, as are vitamin D-fortified foods. Traces of vitamin D are found in egg yolks and butter. However, the majority of vitamin D in the body is created during a chemical reaction that starts with sunlight exposure to the skin. Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) is the animal form of this vitamin.
Vitamin D Treatments
Crohn s disease Cystic fibrosis Osteoporosis Rickets/osteomalacia Burns (severe) Celiac disease (for deficiency only) Depression Hypertension (for deficiency only) Prostate cancer Seasonal affective disorder Type 1 diabetes Type 2 diabetes Alcohol withdrawal support Amenorrhea (calcium for preventing bone loss) Breast cancer (reduces risk) Cardiac arrhythmia Colon cancer (reduces risk) Migraine headaches Multiple sclerosis Parkinson s disease Vitiligo (topical calcipotriol only)
Vitamin D Symptoms
In adults, vitamin D deficiency may result in a softening of the bones known as osteomalacia. This condition is treated with vitamin D, sometimes in combination with calcium supplements. Osteomalacia should be diagnosed, and its treatment monitored, by a doctor. In people of any age, vitamin D deficiency causes abnormal bone formation. It occurs more commonly following winter, owing to restricted sunlight exposure during that season. Living in an area with a lot of atmospheric pollution, which can block the sun’s ultraviolet rays, also appears to increase the risk of vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D deficiency is more common in strict vegetarians (who avoid vitamin D-fortified dairy foods), dark-skinned people, alcoholics, and people with liver or kidney disease. People with liver and kidney disease can make vitamin D but cannot activate it. Vitamin D deficiency is more common in people suffering from intestinal malabsorption, which may have occurred following previous intestinal surgeries, or from celiac disease. People with insufficient pancreatic function (e.g., those with pancreatitis or cystic fibrosis) tend to be deficient in vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency is also common in individuals with hyperthyroidism (Graves’ disease), particularly women. In children, vitamin D deficiency is called rickets and causes a bowing of bones not seen in adults with vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D deficiency is common among people with hyperparathyroidism, a condition in which the parathyroid gland is overactive. In a study of 124 people with mild hyperparathyroidism, vitamin D levels were below normal in 7% of them and suboptimal in 53% of them. Vitamin D deficiency is also common in men with advanced prostate cancer. In one study, 44% of 16 men with advanced prostate cancer had decreased blood levels of vitamin D. One in seven adults has been reported to be deficient in vitamin D. In one study, 42% of hospitalized patients under age 65 were reported to be vitamin D deficient. In this same study, 37% of the people were found to be deficient in vitamin D, despite the fact they were eating the currently recommended amount of this nutrient. Vitamin D deficiency is particularly common among the elderly. Age-related decline in vitamin D status may be due to reduced absorption, transport, or liver metabolism of vitamin D.
Vitamin D Side Effects
People with hyperparathyroidism should not take vitamin D without consulting a physician. People with sarcoidosis should not supplement with vitamin D, unless a doctor has determined that their calcium levels are not elevated. Too much vitamin D taken for long periods of time may lead to headaches, weight loss, and kidney stones. Rarely, excessive vitamin D may even lead to deafness, blindness, increased thirst, increased urination, diarrhea, irritability, children s failure to gain weight, or death. Most people take 400 IU per day, a safe amount for adults. Some researchers believe that amounts up to 10,000 IU per day are safe for the average healthy adult, although adverse effects may occur even at lower levels among people with hypersensitivity to vitamin D (e.g. hyperparathyroidism). In fact, of all published cases of vitamin D toxicity for which a vitamin D amount is known, only one occurred at a level of intake under 40,000 IU per day. Nevertheless, people wishing to take more than 1,000 IU per day for long periods of time should consult a physician. People should remember the total daily intake of vitamin D includes vitamin D from fortified milk and other fortified foods, cod liver oil, supplements that contain vitamin D, and sunlight. People who receive adequate sunlight exposure do not need as much vitamin D in their diet as do people who receive minimal sunlight exposure. Vitamin D increases both calcium and phosphorus absorption and has also been reported to increase absorption of aluminum. Increased blood levels of calcium (which may be a marker for vitamin D status) have been linked to heart disease. Some, but not all, research suggests that vitamin D may slightly raise blood levels of cholesterol in humans. Certain medicines may interact with vitamin D. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C
Vitamin C Supplement
Vitamin C Information
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that has a number of biological functions.
Vitamin C Sources
Broccoli, red peppers, currants, Brussels sprouts, parsley, potatoes, citrus fuit, and strawberries are good sources of vitamin C.
Vitamin C Treatments
Anemia (if deficient) Athletic performance (if deficient, or to reduce pain and speed up muscle strength recovery after intense exercise) Bronchitis Bruising (for deficiency) Burns (in combination with vitamin E for prevention of sunburn only) Capillary fragility Common cold/sore throat Gingivitis (periodontal disease) (for deficiency only) Glaucoma Heart attack (for deficiency) High cholesterol (protection of LDL cholesterol) Infection Infertility (male) (for sperm agglutination) Reflex sympathetic dystrophy (prevention) Scurvy Stress Sunburn (oral, in combination with vitamin E) Wound healing Asthma Atherosclerosis Athletic performance (for exercise recovery) Autism Cataracts Childhood intelligence (for deficiency) Cold sores Dysmenorrhea (plus vitamin B3 [niacin] and rutin) Endometriosis (in combination with vitamin E) Gastritis Gingivitis (periodontal disease) (in combination with flavonoids) Gout Immune function Infertility (female) Influenza Iron-deficiency anemia (as an adjunct to supplemental iron) Lead toxicity Pancreatic insufficiency Parkinson s disease (in combination with Vitamin E) Pre- and post-surgery health (if deficient) Preeclampsia (in combination with vitamin E; for high risk only) Pregnancy support (if the diet is low in vitamin C) Schizophrenia Skin ulcers Sprains and strains Sunburn (topical, in combination with vitamin E) Type 1 diabetes Type 2 diabetes Age-related cognitive decline Alcohol withdrawal support Amenorrhea Anemia (for thalassemia if deficient) Bipolar disorder/manic depression Boils (recurrent furunculosis) Childhood diseases Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) Colon cancer (reduces risk) Ear infections (recurrent) Eczema Gallstones Halitosis (if gum disease and deficient) Hay fever Heart attack (for those not deficient) Hepatitis High blood pressure HIV support (oral and topical) Hives Hypoglycemia Leukoplakia Low back pain Macular degeneration Menopause Menorrhagia (heavy menstruation) Morning sickness Peptic ulcer Progressive pigmented purpura (in combination with rutoside) Prostatitis (acute bacterial prostatitis, chronic bacterial prostatitis) Retinopathy (in combination with selenium, vitamin A and vitamin E) Sickle cell anemia Sinusitis Tardive dyskinesia Urinary tract infection Vitiligo
Vitamin C Symptoms
Although scurvy (severe vitamin C deficiency) is uncommon in Western societies, many doctors believe that most people consume less than optimal amounts. Fatigue, easy bruising, and bleeding gums are early signs of vitamin C deficiency that occur long before frank scurvy develops. Smokers have low levels of vitamin C and require a higher daily intake to maintain normal vitamin C levels. Women with preeclampsia have been found to have lower blood levels of vitamin C than women without the condition. Women who have lower blood levels of vitamin C have an increased risk of gallstones. People with kidney failure have an increased risk of vitamin C deficiency. However, people with kidney failure should take vitamin C only under the supervision of a doctor.
Vitamin C Side Effects
Some people develop diarrhea after as little as a few grams of vitamin C per day, while others are not bothered by ten times this amount. Strong scientific evidence to define and defend an upper tolerable limit for vitamin C is not available. A review of the available research concluded that high intakes (2-4 grams per day) are well-tolerated by healthy people. However, intake of large amounts of vitamin C can deplete the body of copper an essential nutrient. People should be sure to maintain adequate copper intake at higher intakes of vitamin C. Copper is found in many multivitamin-mineral supplements. Vitamin C increases the absorption of iron and should be avoided by people with iron overload diseases (e.g., hemochromatosis, hemosiderosis). Vitamin C helps recycle the antioxidant, vitamin E. It is widely (and mistakenly) believed that mothers who consume large amounts of vitamin C during pregnancy are at risk of giving birth to an infant with a higher-than-normal requirement for the vitamin. The concern is that the infant could suffer rebound scurvy, a vitamin C deficiency caused by not having this increased need met. Even some medical textbooks have subscribed to this theory. In fact, however, the concept of rebound scurvy in infants is supported by extremely weak evidence. Since the publication in 1965 of the report upon which this mistaken notion is based, millions of women have consumed high amounts of vitamin C during pregnancy and not a single new case of rebound scurvy has been reported. A preliminary study found that people who took 500 mg per day of vitamin C supplements for one year had a greater increase in wall thickness of the carotid arteries (vessels in the neck that supply blood to the brain) than those who did not take vitamin C. Thickness of carotid artery walls is an indicator of progression of atherosclerosis. Currently, no evidence supports a cause-and-effect relationship for the outcome reported in this study. The vast preponderance of research suggests either a protective or therapeutic effect of vitamin C for heart disease, or no effect at all. People with the following conditions should consult their doctor before supplementing with vitamin C: glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, iron overload (hemosiderosis or hemochromatosis), history of kidney stones, or kidney failure. It has been suggested that people who form calcium oxalate kidney stones should avoid vitamin C supplements, because vitamin C can be converted into oxalate and increase urinary oxalate. Initially, these concerns were questioned because of potential errors in the laboratory measurement of oxalate. However, using newer methodology that rules out this problem, recent evidence shows that as little as 1 gram of vitamin C per day can increase the urinary oxalate levels in some people, even those without a history of kidney stones. In one case, 8 grams per day of vitamin C led to dramatic increases in urinary oxalate excretion and kidney stone crystal formation causing bloody urine. People with a history of kidney stones should consult a doctor before taking large amounts (1 gram or more per day) of supplemental vitamin C. Despite possible therapeutic effects of vitamin C in people with diabetes at lower intakes, one case of increased blood sugar levels was reported after taking 4.5 grams per day. Certain medicines may interact with vitamin C. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 Supplement
Vitamin B6 Information
Vitamin B6 is the master vitamin for processing amino acids the building blocks of all proteins and some hormones. Vitamin B6 helps to make and take apart many amino acids and is also needed to make the hormones, serotonin, melatonin, and dopamine.
Vitamin B6 Sources
Potatoes, bananas, raisin bran cereal, lentils, liver, turkey, and tuna are all good sources of vitamin B6.
Vitamin B6 Treatments
Anemia (if deficient and for genetic vitamin B6-responsive anemia) Autism Depression (in women taking oral contraceptives) High homocysteine (in combination with folic acid and vitamin B12) Morning sickness Premenstrual syndrome Age-related cognitive decline Asthma Canker sores Carpal tunnel syndrome Childhood intelligence (for deficiency) Depression (associated with premenstrual syndrome) Low back pain (in combination with vitamin B1 and vitamin B12) MSG sensitivity Pregnancy and postpartum support (if homocysteine levels are elevated) Schizophrenia Type 1 diabetes Type 2 diabetes Vertigo Acne Alcohol withdrawal support Alzheimer s disease (in combination with iron and coenzyme Q10) Amenorrhea Atherosclerosis Attention deficit disorder Celiac disease Eating disorders (for bulimia) Epilepsy Fibrocystic breast disease Heart attack HIV support Hypoglycemia Kidney stones Osgood-Schlatter disease (in combination with manganese and zinc) Osteoporosis (to lower homocysteine) Parkinson s disease (with Sinemet® or Eldepryl®) Photosensitivity Pre- and post-surgery health Preeclampsia Seborrheic dermatitis Sickle cell anemia Stroke Tardive dyskinesia
Vitamin B6 Symptoms
Vitamin B6 deficiencies are thought to be very rare. Vitamin B6 deficiency can cause impaired immunity, skin lesions, and mental confusion. A marginal deficiency sometimes occurs in alcoholics, patients with kidney failure, and women using oral contraceptives. Some doctors believe that most diets do not provide optimal amounts of this vitamin. People with kidney failure have an increased risk of vitamin B6 deficiency. Vitamin B6 has also been reported to be deficient in some people with chronic fatigue syndrome.
Vitamin B6 Side Effects
Vitamin B6 is usually safe, at intakes up to 200 mg per day in adults. However, neurological side effects can sometimes occur at that level. Levels higher than 200 mg are more likely to cause such problems. Vitamin B6 toxicity can damage sensory nerves, leading to numbness in the hands and feet as well as difficulty walking. The National Academy of Sciences performed an analysis of vitamin B6 studies. They determined the safe upper limit for long-term use is 100 mg per day. However, under supervision of a healthcare professional, up to 200 mg per day of vitamin B6 can be safely taken by most men and nonpregnant women for limited periods of time. Pregnant and breast-feeding women should not take more than 100 mg of vitamin B6 per day without a doctor s supervision. Since vitamin B6 increases the bioavailability of magnesium, these nutrients are sometimes taken together. Certain medicines may interact with vitamin B6. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.
Vitamin B3
Vitamin B3
Vitamin B3 Supplement
Vitamin B3 Information
The body uses the water-soluble vitamin B3 in the process of releasing energy from carbohydrates. It is needed to form fat from carbohydrates and to process alcohol. The niacin form of vitamin B3 also regulates cholesterol, though niacinamide does not.
Vitamin B3 Sources
The best food sources of vitamin B3 are peanuts, brewer s yeast, fish, and meat. Some vitamin B3 is also found in whole grains.
Vitamin B3 Treatments
Acne (topical niacinamide) High cholesterol High triglycerides (niacin) Intermittent claudication (niacin-inositol hexaniacinate) Osteoarthritis (niacinamide) Dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) (niacin) High cholesterol (inositol hexaniacinate) High triglycerides (inositol hexaniacinate) Peripheral vascular disease (inositol hexaniacinate) Raynaud s disease (niacin-inositol hexaniacinate) Schizophrenia Type 1 diabetes Alcohol withdrawal support (niacinamide) Anxiety (niacinamide) Cataracts (niacinamide) Dermatitis herpetiformis (nicotinamide, when combined with tetracycline) HIV support Hypoglycemia (niacinamide) Hypothyroidism (niacin) Multiple sclerosis (niacin) Photosensitivity (niacinamide) Tardive dyskinesia (niacin or niacinamide) Type 2 diabetes (niacinamide)
Vitamin B3 Symptoms
Pellagra, the disease caused by a vitamin B3 deficiency, is rare in Western societies. Symptoms include loss of appetite, skin rash, diarrhea, mental changes, beefy tongue, and digestive and emotional disturbance.
Vitamin B3 Side Effects
Niacinamide is almost always safe to take, though rare liver problems have occurred at amounts in excess of 1,000 mg per day. Niacin, in amounts as low as 50-100 mg, may cause flushing, headache, and stomachache in some people. Doctors sometimes prescribe very high amounts of niacin (as much as 3,000 mg per day or more) for certain health problems. These large amounts can cause liver damage, diabetes, gastritis, damage to eyes, and elevated blood levels of uric acid (which can cause gout). Symptoms caused by niacin supplements, such as flushing, have been reduced with sustained-release (also called ˜time-release ) niacin products. However, sustained-release forms of niacin have caused significant liver toxicity and, rarely, liver failure. One partial time-release (intermediate-release) niacin product has demonstrated clinical efficacy without flushing, and also without the liver function abnormalities typically associated with sustained-release niacin formulations. However, this form of niacin is available by prescription only. In a controlled clinical trial, 1,000 mg or more per day of niacin raised blood levels of homocysteine, a substance associated with increased risk of heart disease. Since other actions of niacin lower heart disease risk, the importance of this finding is unclear. Nonetheless, for all of the reasons discussed above, large amounts of niacin should never be taken without consulting a doctor. The inositol hexaniacinate form of niacin has not been linked with the side effects associated with niacin supplementation. In a group of people being treated alternatively with niacin and inositol hexaniacinate for skin problems, niacin supplementation (50-100 mg per day) was associated with numerous side effects, including skin flushing, nausea, vomiting and agitation. In contrast, people taking inositol hexaniacinate experienced no complaints whatsoever, even at amounts two to five times higher than the previously used amounts of niacin. However, the amount of research studying the safety of inositol hexaniacinate remains quite limited. Therefore, people taking this supplement in large amounts (2,000 mg or more per day) should be under the care of a doctor. Vitamin B3 works with vitamin B1 and vitamin B2 to release energy from carbohydrates. Therefore, these vitamins are often taken together in a B-complex or multivitamin supplement (although most B3 research uses niacin or niacinamide alone). Certain medicines may interact with vitamin B3. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.