Healthy Vitamins For Weight Loss

Healthy Vitamins for Weight Loss

Vitamins and minerals are necessary for healthy body growth, development and basic function and should be a focus for general nutrition. Although certain vitamins support bodily functions that promote weight loss by providing energy, suppressing appetite, reducing fat and cholesterol absorption and burning calories, the best plan for lifelong weight control is to form healthy habits.

Dietary Vitamins

Vitamins and minerals are essential to your body's health and growth--supporting healthy digestion, a strong immune system, boosting energy and metabolism, fighting cardiovascular disease and cancer, creating skeletal tissue and promoting healthy bones and teeth. These dietary nutrients are available in the foods you eat and support your body on a daily basis.

When trying to lose weight, it is important that you focus on nutrition and continue to nourish you body even while cutting calories. You might omit starches, red meats and high-fat dairy foods, but you then need a vitamin B supplement to replace nutrients lost without those foods. It is important to listen to your body's needs and to adapt with your age, diet and lifestyle. Supplement a multivitamin only for those nutrients you are lacking in your diet or for special nutritional needs such as with a weight loss diet, pregnancy, disease or dietary allergies.

Vitamins for Weight Loss

Most vitamins and minerals don't directly control weight gain or loss but instead promote healthy weight-related functions of the body. Nutrients like vitamins A and C, magnesium, potassium, iron, manganese and phosphorus influence metabolism, appetite, the digestive system and calorie burning. The B-complex vitamins are considered the most important vitamins for weight loss because they are essential for normal thyroid function, blood sugar control and metabolic rate. B vitamins also affect your body's ability to convert food into energy, which is needed for basic daily body function as well as burning fat and calories for weight loss.

Where To Get Your Vitamins

It is important that you consume food first for healthy nutrients and weight loss--by teaching your body to absorb vitamins through food and to excrete what you don't need, you can healthfully manage your weight. B-complex vitamins are available in almost every food group; you can get them from milk, nuts, eggs, dark leafy greens, most fruits, liver, meat and poultry, whole grains, avocados, seafood and much more. Fiber, another important nutrient for weight loss, is available in a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. It will satisfy hunger, decrease your body's absorption of carbohydrates and offer energy-boosting nutrients. Incorporate superfoods into your daily diet--such as quinoa, pomegranates, broccoli, nuts, barley, acai berry, green tea, salmon and yogurt--which have a high concentration of nutrients and antioxidants. Don't set unrealistic weight loss goals for yourself; instead, focus on nutrition and nourishing your body.

Weight Management

Weight loss is about much more than supplements and vitamins--it's about healthful living, daily exercise and consuming a well-balanced diet. Vitamins, however, will give you the energy boost to get your body moving, burn extra calories and promote healthy function. There certainly are foods you can remove from your diet to drop pounds, but it's usually those you add that will give you the best results. Choose foods that will promote weight loss, curb appetite, add energy and supply B-complex vitamins. Add a cup of green tea each day for that slight caffeine boost, antioxidant benefits, to block fat and carbohydrate absorption and supply necessary nutrients.

Eat Your Vitamins

If you do opt to omit certain foods from your diet, use vitamin supplements to fulfill your body's vitamin needs. For example, if you are a vegetarian--or if you don't eat enough vegetables--you might develop an iron deficiency like anemia. Iron supports your body's immunity, supplies energy and helps your red blood cells carry oxygen from your lungs to various cells in your body. If you are lactose intolerant, you may need to supplement calcium into your diet to prevent osteoporosis. If you don't eat seafood, you might be lacking fish oil or some basic B vitamins, which support weight loss.

Be careful not to overdose on certain nutrients. Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K) are stored in the body's fat tissue and can build up to toxic levels if improperly supplemented. Choose what you need and talk with your primary care physician before any crash diet or habitual supplement use.

Considerations

The foods you eat should be beneficial for you nutritionally and also help you maintain a healthy weight. Focus on healthful eating, and your body should naturally drop pounds. It's all about moderation. Minimize your intake of starches, red meat, sugars and dairy. Fill up on fruits and vegetables, which are vitamin-rich, low in fat and cholesterol-free energy boosters.

A healthy, varied menu should provide all the essential vitamins and nutrients the body needs. Take care of yourself--successful weight loss requires maintaining a healthful, consistent, vitamin-packed diet.

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Remove Carrot Stains

Carrots may be a healthy snack that provide vitamin A and other nutrients, but the brightly-colored vegetable can be difficult to remove from clothing and other materials. Many food-based stains, even though they are organic, penetrate deeply into cotton and other fabrics quickly and easily. Treating a carrot stain as soon as it is discovered can increase the chances of removing it from garments or carpets.

Instructions

Remove Carrot Stains from Clothing

1. Remove any solid pieces of carrot that may remain on the clothing before treating the stain.

2. Rinse the item that has been stained with carrot or carrot juice in cold water to try to loosen the carrot from the fibers of the clothing. Be sure not to use hot water at this point, as the heat will cause the stain to set, perhaps permanently.

3. Apply an enzyme-based laundry stain remover to the carrot-stained area of the clothing liberally. Enzyme-based cleansing agents break down fats and proteins that make up organic stains, allowing them to lift the stain from the fabric. Most laundry detergent manufacturers also carry a line of this type of stain remover.

4. Wash the carrot-stained item in the washing machine with regular laundry detergent and a color-safe bleach, unless the clothing care label indicates that bleach should not be used. At this stage, the stain has been treated and it is safe to use hot water. Again, defer to the care tag when choosing the water temperature.

5. Check to see that the carrot stain has been removed from the clothing before drying the garment in the clothes dryer. Rewash the item before drying if an orange residue remains to avoid setting the stain permanently.

Remove Carrot Stains from Carpeting and Furniture

6. Lift off solid pieces of carrot from the carpet.

7. Combine 1 tbsp. of dish detergent with 2 cups of warm water in a mixing bowl.

8. Dip a white cloth into the soapy liquid and gently scrub the stain. Continue working with fresh batches of the soap mixture until the discoloration has been cleaned away.

9. Use a dry white cloth to blot the saturated area of upholstery or carpeting until excess soap has been removed.

10. Rinse the affected area with cold water. Blot dry with a dry white cloth or towel.

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Detect A Minor Stroke

A minor stroke, also called a mini-stroke or a TIA, usually does not cause permanent damage like major strokes do. However, it is significant that you recognize the symptoms because they are often a forerunner to a more serious stroke. Nearly half of all full-blown strokes happen within two days after the mini-stroke, according to the National Stroke Association. If you successfully recognize that you did have a mini-stroke, you may be able to prevent a more serious stroke from happening to you. Symptoms are the same for both mini-strokes and strokes that are more serious.

Instructions

1. Assess if you have a sudden numbness or weakness anywhere in your body. Stroke victims usually feel numb or weak in their face, arm or leg, and the numbness is generally limited to only one side. If you are with someone who you think had a stroke, ask that person to smile to see if one side of the face drops. Then have him raise his arms to see if he can raise them evenly.

2. Notice if you are confused. Since a stroke affects the brain, if you had one, you may have trouble speaking or understanding what is happening. You will be confused. If you want to determine if someone you are with had a stroke, ask her to say something to see if she is slurring her words.

3. Determine if you suddenly have poor vision. A stroke can affect one or both eyes.

4. Determine if you feel dizzy. If you had a stroke, you may lose your balance and will have difficulty when you try to walk.

5. Assess if you have a sudden, severe headache. Sometimes people get a sudden headache after a stroke.

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Treat Hepatitis With Vitamins

There are lots of treatments available for Hepatitis, but one of the easiest ways to treat Hepatitis is with the use of vitamins (also known as vitamin therapy).

Instructions

1. Take 30 to 50 mg of Zinc daily. Zinc works by helping to support immune function which is important for patients with Hepatitis.

2. Take 1,000 mg of Vitamin C, three times per day. Vitamin C helps to improve the immune system and also has strong anti viral properties.

3. Take a high potency multi vitamin daily that is high in mineral content. This helps to ensure that you get all the basic nutrients and the vitamins that are essential for immune function.

4. Take 800 mg of a Vitamin E Complex. Vitamin E Complex helps to protect against liver damage and also helps to support the immune system. Try to find a Vitamin E complex that contains both tocopherols as well as tocotrienols.

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Restore & Balance The Natural Life Force Energy Within The Body

Tai Chi and Chi Kung are popular Eastern methods of restoring the body which can benefit people of any age.

Natural life force energy is believed to flow through all living beings, and in some cultures there is a natural energy believed to flow through everything. When this energy becomes unbalanced, the body and mind can suffer in the form of illness, physical pain, psychological or emotional problems, fatigue, and other similar negative side effects. Just as in physics, energy cannot be created nor destroyed, but it can be rebalanced with the flow improved. Chi Kung, Feng Shui, Reiki and other alternative methods of restoring the body are commonly used with positive results.

Instructions

1. Establish a sleep pattern that is appropriate for you. This averages five to eight hours of sleep each night, depending on the needs of your body. Also make the sleep cycle occur at or around the same hours each day; 10 p.m. to 5 a.m , for example. As a general rule of thumb, if an alarm clock is needed to wake up, you are not getting enough sleep. Although an alarm clock may help, if waking is a struggle, the sleep cycle needs adjustment.

2. Assess eating habits. Often, poor nutrition will affect the flow of energy through the body, and also produce additional symptoms such as digestive difficulties or blood sugar imbalances. When considering nutrient needs, also consider the amount of water and other fluids consumed, as well as the amount of sugar.

3. Increase water intake to over eight cups per day, more than 64 oz. If drinking plain water is a problem, or difficult, consume the water in the form of hot or cold herbal or decaffeinated teas, or consider adding sliced fruit or berries and Stevia to the water to improve flavor.

4. Decrease the amount of sugar consumed, especially in the form of soda, candy and sweets. Also decrease the amount of artificial sweeteners consumed, including diet sodas and calorie-free drink mixes. If sweetener is needed, opt for Stevia as this product has been found to not affect blood sugar levels.

5. Engage in daily stretching and exercise routines, in the form of Tai Chi, Chi Kung, yoga or other desired routines. Books and videos/DVDs are available for those who wish to learn a routine without taking a class, such as Tai Chi or Chi Kung. Home yoga workouts are widely available as well. More rigorous exercise is another option, but stressing the body before restoring balance can make progress at restoring balance a bit slower. The routines should be practiced daily, preferably early in the morning.

6. Meditate daily, if possible, or several times a week for 30 minutes. If new to meditation, start with five- to 10-minute sittings, and practice relaxing the muscles throughout the body and focusing the mind. Keep distractions to a minimum, such as silencing phones and shutting windows if there is a lot of noise outside.

Visualization exercises may replace the meditation, such as visualizing the energy being restored throughout the body, starting at one part, such as the head or feet, and improving through the body.

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Vitamin B6 As A Diuretic For Dogs With Congenital Heart Failure

Vitamin B6, a natural diuretic, eases fluid retention in dogs with congestive heart failure.

Two conditions of the heart have names that bear slight similarity: congenital heart disease and congestive heart failure. The former describes a defect in the structure of the heart that is present at birth. The latter---congestive heart failure---is the condition for which a veterinarian might recommend the use of vitamin B6 as a diuretic.

Congestive heart failure---or CHF---affects all dog breeds, irrespective of age. It is caused by an abnormal functioning of the heart, which prevents blood supply to body tissues. This results in fluid retention. Several factors, including birth defects, advanced age and heart disease, can predispose a dog to developing CHF. Treatments for CHF include the use of vitamin B6 as a diuretic---an element that helps the body rid itself of excess fluid through urination.

Medication

The aim of CHF medication is to improve heart function and prevent cardiac arrest. Practically, the same drugs that are prescribed for human heart disease are used to treat canine CHF. ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitors reduce lung congestion and ease the dog's heart pressure, but combining it with vitamin B6 supplements brings down elevated homocysteine levels, which are considered an independent risk factor for heart disease.

Diuretic

Diuretics work by reducing the absorption of salt and preventing fluid congestion that causes painful swelling in dogs with CHF. While drug-based diuretics like furosemide and spironolactone are prescribed, vitamin B6 supplements may also be used to reduce fluid retention for dogs with CHF.

Other Vitamin B6 Advantages

Additional vitamin B6 benefits were demonstrated in a study conducted by Yale University School of Medicine. Dogs with vitamin B6 deficiencies experienced cardiac dysfunction, anemia, thoracic fluid retention, liver congestion and degenerative disorders. Dogs that received vitamin B6 supplements did not develop any such health conditions. Vitamin B6 also works as an antioxidant, detoxifying the body and preventing free radicals from further damaging the heart.

Diet

Dogs with CHF are deficient in the amino acids taurine and carnitine, which strengthen heart muscle tissues. Both these amino acids are abundant in red meat, especially raw beef and fish. However, dogs with CHF must have vitamin B6 supplements for proper absorption of taurine and carnitine from these foods. A diet low in salt/sodium is recommended to prevent fluid retention. If a diuretic is used, the diet should be high in potassium.

Warnings

Consult your veterinarian prior to giving vitamin B6 supplements or dietary treatments to a dog with congestive heart failure. The physical health of dogs on CHF treatments must be monitored on a regular basis.

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Increase Hair Growth With Vitamins

Increase Hair Growth With Vitamins

So you've been dying for long, lustrous hair and you've figured out that taking vitamins just might do the trick. Well, you are right! It's not as cut and dry as you think, but taking vitamin supplements will definitely make a difference in your rate of hair growth and the health of your hair. The following guidelines should help you with your mission to increase your hair growth with vitamins:

Instructions

1. Before you waste time and money on all of your hair growth efforts, make sure that you have realistic expectations. There is a science to hair growth that most certainly involves genetics. Based on your hair growth cycle, for which you can thank mom and pop, your hair will only grow to a certain length before it sheds and a new hair pops back up in its place. So if everyone in moms family had shoulder length hair and everyone in dad's family had mid-back length hair or less, you will surely never be able to attain a goal of growing your hair to the base of your spine.

2. When you have set an achievable goal, assess any damage to your hair and adopt a routine for treating this damage and preventing any new problems. Damaged hair will not thrive long enough for you to see the results of your new hair growth regimen. If not treated, this hair will fall out prematurely and actually undermine your efforts. Just peruse the products at your local beauty supply store and choose high quality treatments for hair damage.

3. There are other culprits that can seriously sabotage your efforts. Check your current state of health and wellness. Stress, illness, a poor diet, and certain medications can contribute to accelerated hair loss and extremely slow hair growth. Visiting the doctor to get a clean bill of health, beginning an emotional wellness plan to reduce stress and anxiety, making sure your diet contains a variety of healthy and nutrient rich foods, and paying attention to the affects that the medications you are taking have on your body are all things you can do to gain control over these culprits.

4. Once you are sure that nothing will stand in your way, choose your vitamin regimen and begin taking them on a daily basis. The most commonly used vitamins for hair growth are the B-Vitamins, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E.

B-Vitamins include thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, biotin, folic acid, and cobalamin. They all support various functions of the body, including oxidation, cell repair, DNA synthesis, and the breakdown of carbohydrates. Although each is a separate and distinct vitamin, they work in tandem to promote healthy, thicker, and longer hair. The easiest way to guarantee your intake of all 8 of these vitamins, is to take a B-Complex supplement. Make sure that the complex contains the daily requirements of each of the B's. You can also take additional amounts of one or more of the individual vitamins, like pantothenic acid or biotin, which many people feel benefit the hair growth cycle more than the others. Some foods that are rich in B-Vitamins include legumes, vegetables, grains, eggs, and liver.

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for a range of metabolic reactions in the body and is also a powerful antioxidant. It is a requirement for the synthesis of collagen, which is a protein that is a main component of hair. Add a Vitamin C supplement to your B-complex and increase your intake of foods that are high sources of Vitamin C. These foods include, citrus fruits, green peppers, strawberries, potatoes, leafy greens, and cantaloupe.

Vitamin E is important in the formation of red blood cells and is an antioxidant that protects the body from damage caused by free radicals, which can affect cells, tissues, and organs. Regular doses of Vitamin E, either via a supplement or through food consumption, leads to improved circulation. The scalp reaps the rewards of this boost in cardiovascular function, and in turn, the growth cycle of the hair becomes more efficient. Food sources of vitamin E include asparagus, olives, seeds, avocado, almonds, vegetable oils, and cucumbers.

5. In order for you to see results, consistency is vital. Your vitamins must be taken every single day, preferably at the same time each day. You must also stick with your other lifestyle changes. If you are not seeing results, re-visit all the health and wellness checkpoints. You may even need to up the dosage of supplements you are taking, without reaching levels that may be considered toxic.

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What Vitamins Help Nail Growth

The condition of your nails is a good indication of how healthy you are. If your nails are short, cracked and thin, that is a sign that you are not getting enough nutrition. Human beings need a wide assortment of vitamins and minerals in order to stay healthy and prevent disease. In addition, there are certain key vitamins that help specifically with nail growth and strength. Taking these vitamins daily will help to ensure that your nails stay strong and beautiful.

Biotin

Biotin is such an important vitamin for so many reasons. Biotin is also included in the family of B-vitamins. Biotin helps to metabolize fats, carbohydrates and other proteins in addition to regulating the metabolism. However, the main thing biotin is known for is beauty. Biotin helps to regenerate cells. This results in stronger thicker hair and nails. Take 1,000 mg of biotin daily in addition to a multi-vitamin and mineral supplement for best results. Foods that contain high levels of biotin are eggs, beans and brewers yeast.

MSM

MSM is another great vitamin when it comes to beauty. MSM is also called methysulfonylmethane, and it's a natural form organic sulfur. This nutrient is found in certain foods and within the human body. MSM is important because it helps to maintain the structure of proteins in the body. That helps keratin to form. For best results, take 1,500 mg or more of MSM per day.

Calcium

It is well known that taking calcium is a great way to maintain healthy, strong bones, but calcium is also an important beauty vitamin. Calcium stimulates nail growth and strength. Take 1,000 mg of calcium per day--in addition to your other vitamins--for best results. Calcium rich foods are carrots, milk and almonds.

Folic Acid

Folic acid has been known as a great vitamin to help prevent birth defects, but it is also a great beauty vitamin. Folic acid helps the body make new cells and promote hair and nail growth. Folic acid can be found in dark green leafy vegetables, eggs and beans, just to name a few. You can also take folic acid as a supplement. The recommended daily dose is 600 to 800 mcg.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is so important for healthy skin and nails because it helps to increase healthy skin cells. The safest form of vitamin A is beta carotene. Beta carotene can be found in carrots, almonds and fish. You can also take beta carotene as a supplement of 25,000 IU or less. Vitamin in retinal form should not be taken in high doses.

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Treat Anxiety With Yoga

Relieve symptoms of anxiety with yoga.

Anxiety is a mental health condition that can cause feelings of panic or shortness of breath. There are several diagnosable categories of anxiety, but treating anxiety with an alternative healing method, such as yoga, may be effective, according to B.K.S. Iyengar, author of "Yoga: The Path to Holistic Health." Yoga can calm the nervous system, ease the mind and lower your heart rate -- all beneficial when dealing with anxiety. As with any new exercise routine, consult your doctor first.

Instructions

Legs Up the Wall Pose

1. Sit near a wall in a position with your knees bent and the soles of your feet on the floor. Place your right hip against the wall, keeping your knees bent.

2. Swivel your body until your legs are pressed straight up against the wall and your upper body is laying on the floor. Rest your head on a pillow.

3. Hold this position for five minutes. Rotate your ankles clockwise a few times, then counterclockwise a few times to relieve any tingling in your legs.

4. Hold the pose for another five minutes, then hug your knees into your chest. Roll to the right side and stay there for a few moments.

5. Rise back up gently to a seated position from the side position.

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Beauty Tips Using Avocados

Avocado beauty treatments can be effective, yet inexpensive.

Avocados and avocado oil can be used to moisturize and soften the skin, as well as strengthen the hair, according to Pioneer Thinking. With vitamins such as A, C, E, iron, potassium and niacin, as well as natural oils and emollients, the avocado or its oil is often a common ingredient in commercially sold skin and hair care products. Since avocados are readily available in most grocery stores, avocado beauty treatments can be created easily at home for a fraction of the cost of their commercially sold counterparts.

Hair Mask

The nutrients and vitamins in avocados can help moisturize and condition hair, according to Diva Village. Create an avocado hair mask to help hair regain its shine, elasticity and body by thoroughly mixing together 1 avocado, 1 egg yolk and 1 tbsp. olive oil. Before applying the mixture, wet the hair with warm water and gently massage the scalp. Apply the mask to the scalp and work downward, sectioning off the hair and massaging the mask into each section for the easiest penetration. Place a shower cap on the head and dry with a hair dryer for 20 minutes before rinsing the treatment completely from the hair. Follow with shampoo, conditioner, and normal styling products. Diva Village suggests skipping the mask on the scalp of the hair if it is typically oily, but rather work from the ends of the hair to halfway up. For normal hair, the mask should be massaged thoroughly into the scalp.

Facial Cleanser

Create a skin-nourishing cleanser by adding 1/2 cup of milk and one well-beaten egg yolk to a half of an avocado. Beat the mixture together until it is the consistency of lotion, according to Natural-Home Remedies. After wetting the face, apply this gentle cleanser to the face and rinse thoroughly to remove dirt, oi, and makeup residue while hydrating the skin with the natural oils in the avocado.

Skin Soother

Pureeing the fruit of the avocado and applying it topically to the skin can replenish moisture, soften rough patches and help heal very dry skin, according to Handmade News. Those who suffer from dry facial skin may benefit from an avocado mask, which may be concocted by mixing the puree of 1 avocado with 1 tsp. olive oil. Apply the mask to the face and neck and leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

To alleviate eye puffiness, place a thin slice of an avocado beneath each eye for 20 minutes. To help reduce puffiness further and soothe the delicate skin around the eyes, mix the avocado slices with 5 drops of almond oil and gently apply the mixture around the eyes, leaving it on for 5 minutes before rinsing completely, according to Natural-Home Remedies.

General Tips

When creating avocado beauty treatments, be sure to use a fully ripe avocado for the best results. To test for ripeness, hold the avocado in the palm of the hand and squeeze gently. A ripe avocado should not be rock hard, but will yield slightly to the touch. An avocado may be mashed with a fork, in a blender or in food processor depending on the desired consistency for the individual beauty treatment.

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What To Eat During The Stages Of Pregnancy

Pregnant women must carefully watch what they eat for the health and well-being of their babies and themselves. They should eat smaller meals throughout the day and make sure they are getting proper vitamins and minerals and supplementing their diets with prenatal vitamins. Here are some general guidelines for what to eat during each stage of pregnancy.

First Trimester

During the first trimester, pregnant women should consume about 2,200 calories. This is also the stage when morning sickness occurs, so eat smaller meals more frequently. Fruits and vegetables, especially dark leafy greens, are a must. Drink plenty of water, and eat plenty of grains and legumes. Avoid canned foods, alcohol and tobacco. Red meat, liver and other good sources of iron are also recommended. Moderate amounts of low fat dairy foods are recommended. Additionally, prenatal vitamins should be taken. Ideally, pregnant women should have taken folic acid supplements prior to conception and for the first three months of pregnancy.

Second Trimester

Pregnant women should increase their food intake during the second trimester by 2,500 calories and continue to maintain a well-balanced diet. Similar to the first trimester, pregnant women should continue taking their vitamins, eating iron-rich foods like red meat and consuming fiber. Vitamin C should be added to the diet to help the absorption of iron. Women can get vitamin C through citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits and limes.

Third Trimester

At the third trimester, women should increase their calcium intake by drinking more milk and eating plenty of dairy products. This helps the baby's bone growth. If the baby does not get enough calcium from the mother, it will begin drawing calcium from its bones, effectively stunting growth. Additionally, the calcium helps to make milk for breastfeeding after delivery. Pregnant women should go back to eating small meals throughout the day, though still keeping the increased calorie total from the second trimester. This will help prevent heartburn. Keep drinking plenty of water.

"Fourth" Trimester or Postpartum Diet

After giving birth, it's important to continue eating healthy foods because the baby still gets nutrition from the mother through breastfeeding. New mothers should eat foods that have essential fatty acids (omega-3s), which can be found in fresh salmon, nuts and seeds. Continuing to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables will also give the body needed antioxidants. After giving birth, women should avoid refined sugars and flour.

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What Is Metoprolol Succinate Er Used For

Metoprolol succinate ER is a drug used to treat high blood pressure, which is also called hypertension. It is sold under the brand name Toprol-XL and as a generic drug, and it is an extended-release tablet taken orally. It may be used by itself or together with other drugs to control high blood pressure.

Uses

Metoprolol succinate is also used to treat angina pectoris and some types of heart failure. Angina pectoris is chest pain or discomfort caused by coronary heart disease.

Side effects

Some side effects have been reported by people taking metoprolol succinate ER, according to AstraZeneca, which manufactures Toprol-XL. Tiredness and exhaustion were reported by one in 10 people, and depression was reported by one in 20 people. Some people have experienced rashes, diarrhea, nausea, upset stomachs and headaches.

More serious adverse effects include a slow heart rate, called bradycardia, and cardiac problems, according to the Nursing Drug Handbook. People experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention, as they may be life-threatening.

Availability

Metoprolol succinate ER is available under the brand name Toprol-XL and as a generic, according to information from the Food and Drug Administration. The manufacturer of Toprol-XL is AstraZeneca. The generic version is manufactured by several companies, including KV Pharmaceuticals and Sandoz Inc. It is available as a pill, which is taken orally; the pills are available in 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg and 200 mg dosages.

About High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is also called hypertension, according to the Mayo Clinic. Blood pressure shows how much blood is being pumped and how much resistance is offered by arteries. If the arteries are constricted or if the heart is pumping hard, blood pressure will be higher.

Hypertension usually develops over years. Because of this, it is important to take consistent blood pressure readings. Readings may vary, depending on the machine, but a consistent increase should be reported to a physician.

Considerations

People should not stop taking metoprolol succinate abruptly, according to the Nursing Drug Handbook. They should be weaned off of it over one or two weeks.

Abrupt discontinuation of use can result in a heart attack, according to AstraZeneca.

Also, patients who are new to taking metoprolol succinate should avoid operating machines until they know how it will affect them, according to the manufacturer. Patients should also notify their doctors if they experience difficulty breathing.

Women who are nursing should not take metoprolol succinate, according to the Nursing Drug Handbook.

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Conceive Twins Or Triplets Naturally

Twins and triplets occur more frequently these days as more and more women seek fertility treatments, simply because these treatments often yield multiple births. Whether by taking fertility drugs that stimulate the ovaries, or by having several embryos implanted at once, a woman can easily conceive twins or triplets by artificial means.

However, there are still many natural ways to increase your chances of having twins. Even if there is no family history of twins on your maternal side, you can make your body an environment that is favorable to twins or triplets.

Instructions

1. First, understand the two types of twins that can occur: monozygotic (identical), and dizygotic (fraternal). Identical twins arise when a fertilized egg splits into tow identical embryos. Fraternal twins arise from two separate eggs being fertilized by two different sperm.

It is easier to engineer the conception of fraternal twins, than the conception of identical twins.

2. To increase your chances of having twins or triplets, you must first increase your chances of having a baby at all. This means taking folic acid every day, starting several months before you think about conceiving. Putting on more weight, quitting alcohol and tobacco, and consuming more dairy will also help you get pregnant.

3. Start eating foods that will encourage your ovaries to release more eggs during the ovulation cycle. For example, yams have compounds that over-stimulate the ovaries, and women who eat them regularly before trying to conceive have a higher rate of conceiving fraternal twins and triplets.

Foods that encourage progesterone production, such as walnuts, whole grains, eggs, and chicken, can also help you conceive multiples.

4. Try to conceive when you are older. Between the ages of 20 and 30, a woman has a 3% chance of naturally conceiving multiples. But between the ages of 30 and 40, that rate jumps to 6% for naturally conceived twins and triplets.

Note that these are figures for naturally conceived twins and triplets. Among older women, the rates of artificially induced multiples is much higher.

5. Know that your chances of conceiving twins increases as you have more children. This is true not only because of the laws of probability, but also because having a child makes you gain weight. This extra body weight encourages twins.

6. Try to conceive shortly after you stop taking hormonal birth control. This is not a surefire method of having twins, but in a small percentage of women, the ovaries start releasing more eggs when birth control is stopped, which in turn increases the chances of fraternal twins.

(Most women actually experience a brief period of infertility when they stop taking the pill.)

7. Understand that none of these tricks are foolproof, and they won't help everyone conceive triplets or twins. Genetics is the biggest factor in whether or not you have multiples, but changing external factors can tip the scales in your direction.

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Vitamin C Chelation Treatment For Melanoma

Melanoma is a form of skin cancer that can spread quickly. The causes for the condition are not fully known, but it is believed that overexposure to ultraviolet light from the sun and/or tanning lamps can increase your risk for getting the condition. Symptoms include a change in the appearance of a mole on your body or the sudden development of a skin growth. Mole itching, scaliness, bleeding and oozing are also symptoms indicative of melanoma. Vitamin C chelation therapy can be a helpful treatment if you have developed this condition.

The Process

Chelation therapy is a treatment that uses infusions containing drugs, such as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), or dimercaptopropane sulfonate (DMPS), which are sometimes combined with vitamins, like vitamin C. The drugs offered in chelation therapy infusions are used to rid the body of aluminum, arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury as well as other toxic metals. When these metals accumulate in your body, it can lead to cardiovascular conditions, neurological disorders, kidney disease, diabetes, and cancers like melanoma. In "The Road to Immunity: Survive and Thrive in a Toxic World," Kenneth Bock and Nellie Sabin, explain that vitamin C chelation therapy helps improve immunological functioning. Vitamin C is, therefore, added to the infusions to encourage the proper functioning of your immune system.

Vitamin C chelation therapy is offered in a series of infusions. You will receive vitamin C chelation infusions two to three times every week for a total of 30 treatments to help treat melanoma. After your 30 treatments, you are then given vitamin C chelation therapy once a month for an indefinite period to help you deal with your cancerous condition. Vitamin C chelation therapy can be used to treat respiratory infections, fend off chronic fatigue and improve your overall health before any kind of surgical procedures to help you withstand the surgery. Vitamin C chelation therapy also can improve the speed of your recovery, as vitamin C encourages expedient healing.

Infusions vs. Vitamin C Oral Chelation

In "The Chelation Way: The Complete Book of Chelation Therapy," Morton Walker explains that intravenous vitamin C chelation therapy is far more effective in treating melanoma and cancer when compared to oral chelation remedies. Oral chelation remedies, while proving an excellent supplement to intravenous chelation, cannot offer you the high doses of vitamin C needed to battle a disease like cancer when symptoms are already present.

Intravenous chelation therapy with vitamin C will require that you receive 100 grams of vitamin C over a 2 ½-hour period for each chelation session. This dosage, if consumed orally, would significantly upset the stomach and produce gastrointestinal issues, as well as diarrhea that could later lead to significant dehydration.

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Vitamin C Cancer Therapy

Vitamin C is often referred to as the "master antioxidant." Vitamin C works together with vitamin E, selenium and zinc to protect bodily tissues. Although vitamin C is not recognized by the FDA as a cancer treatment, it is widely used as a complementary therapy by some of the most successful alternative cancer physicians around the world.

How It Works

Vitamin C is required for more than 300 metabolic functions in the body, including the metabolism of several amino acid proteins and vitamins that are vital to the immune system. This vitamin plays a vital role in protecting cellular structures, including DNA, from damage. It also inhibits the formation of cancer-causing compounds. Some studies suggest that vitamin C may also stop cancer from spreading by neutralizing hyaluronidase, the enzyme that helps the cancer to metastasize, as reported in the book "Prevent and Treat Cancer with Natural Medicine" (2002).

Vitamin C for Cancer

Vitamin C first gained public recognition for the treatment of cancer in 1976 when two-time Nobel Prize winner Linus Pauling published his study on vitamin C and cancer. In Pauling's study involving 1,100 terminally ill cancer patients, the group that received 10 grams of vitamin C per day had a 53 percent higher survival rate than the control group that received no vitamin C.

History

Several of history's most successful cancer practitioners included vitamin C as an important part of their therapies. German physician Max Gerson successfully treated many cancer patients with his therapy, which included vitamin C. His therapy is still in use today by some of the leading cancer clinics around the world. Other practitioners of vitamin C therapy have included Dr. Hans Nieper of Germany and Dr. William Kelley of the United States.

Intravenous Vitamin C

When administered intravenously, vitamin C reacts with copper in the blood, generating hydrogen peroxide, which destroys tumors through oxidative reactions. Naturopathic or metabolic doctors often administer this treatment for a reasonable price.

Recommended Intake

If intravenous vitamin C is not available, a natural powder or tablet form can be used. Vitamin C is water-soluble, so it remains in the body for only a few hours. Many of its enthusiasts say you should take vitamin C every few hours throughout the day. Start with 1,000 milligram doses and work up to 4,000 milligram doses. If possible, build up to 15 to 20 grams per day, taking it every two hours. Powder is a good form to use because it can be added to juices.

Warning

Vitamin C should not be considered a stand-alone therapy for cancer. It is not a cure. However, it can be very beneficial in fighting cancer. Always consult with your physician if you are taking medications or undergoing other cancer therapies.

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List Of Vitamins & Their Purposes

List of Vitamins & Their Purposes

Vitamins perform a wide range of roles in the body and are essential for proper growth and health. Generally, according to MayoClinic.com, we require only small amounts of these compounds and they are available in a normal, balanced diet. There are 13 essential vitamins, eight of which are B complex vitamins.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin and, according to MedlinePlus, plays an important role as an antioxidant, breaking down free radicals. It is also important for maintaining good vision, effective bone growth, an efficient immune system and for cell functions.

It is also important in the growth of reproductive organs and for the development of a healthy fetus in pregnant women.

Vitamin C

This is a water- soluble vitamin and, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, is essential for normal growth and development. As well as being an antioxidant, vitamin C assists in the growth of and repairs cartilage, bone and teeth. In addition, it is essential in forming the collagen vital for healthy skin, tendon, ligament and blood vessel growth.

Vitamin D

The main function of vitamin D, a fat-soluble vitamin, is to help your body absorb calcium. This is an important role as calcium helps build your body's teeth and bones during childhood, and, after childhood, helps maintain correct bone mass, according to FamilyDoctor.org. In addition, vitamin D maintains correct calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood and may also help prevent cancer, mood disorders, heart disease and high blood pressure.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is fat-soluble and works as an antioxidant. It also helps the body form red blood cells and use vitamin K, as well as assisting the immune system and your metabolism. It may also play a role in reducing the incidence of heart disease and cancer, as well as being useful in treating diabetes and Alzheimer's disease.

Vitamin K

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that is important in enabling the body to properly clot blood. Hence, any deficiency of this vitamin may lead to excessive bleeding or hemorrhage. The body also needs this vitamin to properly use calcium in bone formation and maintenance and to maintain and improve bone health.

B Vitamins

These vitamins play a part in many important bodily functions, according to the American Cancer Society. They are involved in: energy production; red blood cell production; skin health; keeping the nervous, immune and digestive systems healthy; breaking down proteins and carbohydrates; forming hormones and DNA; and the correct use of folic acid.

Deficiencies in these important vitamins may cause a number of ailments ranging from tiredness and loss of appetite to respiratory infections and hair loss.

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What Deficiencies Cause Bad Behavior With Autism

Screaming is often perceived as a behavioral issue.

Many times children with autism are labeled with severe behavioral problems. When observed without the knowledge of the associated neurological challenges and deficiencies, behaviors such as screaming, crashing into things, hyperactivity, withdrawing, inappropriate laughing, and invading others' space appear to be indicative of a lack of discipline and outright defiance. This is not the case at all. Because of neurological deficiencies, these children face challenges daily that inhibit their ability to make sense of the world around them.

Sensory Processing Issues

Many children with autism are deficient at processing sensory input. Normal sensory integration is taking information from your surroundings through your senses and sensory systems including sight, smell, sound, touch, and spatial awareness (where your body ends and space begins). The information is processed in the brain and then interpreted, organized, and sent back to the body with instructions for an appropriate response.

Having a sensory processing deficiency means the input is collected, but when the data enters the brain it is not processed correctly and, therefore, the brain sends out inappropriate and abnormal responses.

Hyperresponsive is when the brain essentially short-circuits from magnified or intense sensations. Even the lightest touch to a child can trigger a "fight or flight" response: The nervous system is perpetually on high alert and perceives nearly every movement or sensation as danger. Because of this, the child may avoid certain foods, clothing, movements, or perform repeated movements in an attempt to calm the body.

Conversely, hyporesponsive is when the brain simply doesn't register and respond to input received. A child may fall or bang his head and not indicate any sensation of pain. In an effort to make sense of his world, he may employ all other senses to compensate.

Occupational therapy is recommended, along with regular use of products such as compression or weighted vests, body stockings, and spinning swings for sensory support.

Digestive Enzyme Deficiencies

Children with autism tend to have problems with digestion due to an enzyme deficiency, which can often form leakiness of the intestinal lining, more commonly known as leaky gut.

This deficiency allows partly digested food substances called peptides to enter straight into the bloodstream. The most common culprits that trigger these reactions are gluten and casein.

Gluten and gluten-like proteins are found in wheat and other grains, as well as foods made from those grains. They are also found in food starches, semolina, malt, soy sauce, flavorings, and artificial colors.

Casein is a protein found in milk and foods containing milk such as cheese, butter, yogurt, and ice cream.

When gluten and casein are not properly digested, the peptides formed act like opiates, causing brain functioning to short-circuit and alter the autistic child's behavior, perceptions, and responses to her environment. Behavioral problems from a digestive deficiency can include social withdrawal, inappropriate laughing, and zoning out.

There are many viable and delicious substitutes available such as gluten-free pastas, cereals, cookies, and even breads. Coconut milk-based ice creams and yogurts are becoming more popular, as well as almond milk.

Functional Disconnect Between Brain Hemispheres

Based on the studies of Dr. Robert Melillo, autism and other learning disabilities are caused by varying degrees of a hemispheric imbalance in the brain.

In order for the brain to function normally, the activities in both the right and left hemispheres must work in harmony. When the brain can no longer effectively share and integrate information, it becomes disconnected.

The deficient hemisphere and the percentage of the gap between the two dictate the different symptoms and behaviors that have previously been identified as separate diagnoses.

Right-brain deficient persons are logical, linear, and literal in their perception of things; they miss the big picture along with social cues and implications. They can repeat and memorize but not comprehend the data they are reciting. Physically, it is common for them to have food sensitivities, allergies, and digestion issues. Their gait is awkward and muscles are not fully developed, which will directly affect coordination. These traits are typical of those with autism and ADHD.

Left-brain deficient persons are more creative, athletic, and have trouble with detail. Their fine motor skills come with difficulty and they can stumble over words when fatigued or frustrated. They are strong at math reasoning and reading comprehension. These traits are typical of those with dyslexia.

Both types have extreme difficulty processing and integrating sensory input, which can manifest in many different forms, including over- or under-sensitivity to light, sounds, or touch, as well as picky eating.

Dr. Melillo's research indicates that the brain is not hardwired and the functional disconnect can be corrected through a strict therapy and nutrition program.

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Read Nutrition Value Charts On The Daily Plate

The Nutrition Facts label

Reading the Nutrition Facts panel of food will make you a more informed food shopper. While all the information is there, a few tips on reading the labels will ensure that you can do it quickly and accurately.

Instructions

1. Check the serving size. Before delving into other numbers, look at the serving size suggested. Are there more than one servings in the package? How many servings of this food will you usually eat? Remember, if you eat two servings, you'll have twice the calories and fat.

2. Check the calories per serving and the calories from fat. The average person needs about 2000 calories each day. How much of that will a serving of this food provide? Remember that the serving size and the package size are not the same - there is often more than one serving in a package.

3. Look at the total fat, cholesterol and sodium lines. You want to limit these, so choose foods low in these items. Or, if the food is high in these items (more than 20% daily value), then eat it only on occasion or in smaller portions.

4. Look at the nutrient list of vitamins and minerals. Over the course of a day you want to meet close to 100% of your daily requirements for these, so choose foods rich in vitamins and minerals. A food that contains 20% daily value or more of a nutrient is fairly high, less than 5% is fairly low.

5. Check out the footnote if you need a refresher on "% daily value."Daily value estimates are just that - they are another way of looking at how the nutrients in a food fit into your day. The average person needs about 2000 calories each day, and the values are based on that. So, if you look at the right side of the label, you can see if your food is high in fat, sodium, carbohydrate, or protein by how the %daily value. If a food has a low % daily value for a nutrient, it is low in that nutrient.

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Supplements For Men'S Health

Men can supplement their diet with vitamin pills.

Men need to take care of their health. It would be convenient if they could get all the vitamins and minerals they need from food, but they usually can't. Supplements make it possible for men to have a balanced diet. The key: men need to know which are the better supplements.

Boron

Boron helps protect men from developing prostate cancer. MensHealth.com says, "Men with the highest boron intakes are 65 percent less likely to develop prostate cancer than men with lower levels." Along with its cancer-fighting benefits, boron can improve concentration and memory. The USDA suggests that men take 3 milligrams of boron a day. If you cannot find boron supplements, you can get it naturally in raisins and almonds.

Chromium

Men most often use chromium to build muscles, but it also helps ward off diabetes. Richard Anderson, Ph.D., a researcher with the USDA, is quoted by MensHealth.com as saying, "taking chromium is one of the best things you can do to help keep insulin levels where they belong." Men should take 35 micrograms of chromium a day.

Coenzyme Q10

Coenzyme Q10 helps boost a man's energy by helping the body's cells manage their energy supply. MensFitness.com lists other benefits of Coenzyme Q10 saying, "Coenzyme Q10 is a disease-fighting antioxidant and has been used in the treatment of neurological diseases and may...be beneficial in cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure and migraine headache treatment." The recommended dosage is 100 micrograms daily.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E slows the effects of aging in men. Vitamin E can help ward off certain diseases that are often associated with aging, including Alzheimer's, cancer, heart disease and eye diseases. It also helps repair muscle damage exercises cause. Vitamin E can be found in natural and synthetic forms. The natural form known as d-alpha tocopherol is easier for the body to use and thus more effective. The recommended dosage is 400 international units a day.

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How Does Drinking Water Help You To Lose Weight

While exercising is a major benefit to your health and contributes to weight loss, what you put into your body also can help you shed pounds and maintain a healthy body weight. Because the body is composed of two-thirds of water, drinking water is essential to the body's needs on a daily basis. Therefore, water plays a major role when it comes to weight loss.

Function

Water contributes to the way the body's organs function. Water aids in digestion, regulates body functions, transports nutrients, removes the body's waste material, reduces blood pressure and cholesterol, improves skin tone and lubricates joints.

Significance

Drinking the right amount of water affects weight loss. The To Lose Weight website states that an adequate amount of water increases the rate at which the liver burns fat as well as reduces water retention. The body stays hydrated (which is important if you exercise and for your metabolism) and food is digested properly.

Benefits

Drinking water before, during and after every meal helps you to stay full longer, which will decrease your appetite and help prevent unnecessary overeating. Water is also very accessible and calorie-free.

Quantity

The average person should drink 8 cups of water daily, which is equivalent to 64 ozs. If you are physically active, the Kraft website suggests drinking the following amount of water: Drink 2 cups (16 ozs.) about two hours before your activity; drink 1 cup (8 ozs.) every 15-20 minutes while you exercise; weigh yourself before and after exercise, and for every pound you lose, replace it with 2 cups (16 ozs.) of water.

Considerations

Drinking eight glasses of water everyday is difficult for some people to swallow. A slice of lemon can add flavor to water without adding significant calories. Other options are vitamin water and seltzer water. Eat the recommended amount of fruit and vegetable servings daily, as they contain water.

Misconceptions

Although drinking water is beneficial to the body and contributes to weight loss, overindulgence in anything can lead to unbalance. The Health Benefit of Water website states that drinking water in excess (known as over-hydration) can cause an imbalance in electrolytes.

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Signs & Symptoms Of A Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12 is a nutrient that the body uses to keep the nervous system healthy, and to create healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to the rest of the body. The bone marrow uses vitamin B12 to create red blood cells, and then distribute those cells to the organs that need them. A deficiency in vitamin B12 is normally diagnosed with a physical examination and a blood test.

Nervous System Symptoms

The body needs the various B-complex vitamins in order to maintain a healthy nervous system. Without sufficient vitamin B12 in your diet you will begin to notice changes to your mood, and you will also start to develop anxieties for what appears to be no reason at all. You may find yourself becoming anxious or even nervous at random moments, and you may also experience an increase in your sense of worry and dread. It is also possible that depression may set in as well. You may also begin to experience confusion and memory loss. You could also start to get tingling feelings in your hands and feet that may lead to numbness.

Fatigue

One of the symptoms of a deficiency of the B12 vitamin is fatigue even after sleeping for several hours. You may develop a lack of concentration due to continued fatigue, and you may feel tired constantly. You may also notice that your ability to sleep may be hindered as well. You may find it difficult to fall asleep, and once asleep you may wake up at random moments throughout the night.

Decorate A Vitamin Store

Decorate a vitamin store to make it more user friendly.

Vitamin stores are generally stocked floor to ceiling with bottle after bottle of supplements. When decorating, you'll want to break up the monotony yet also give off a clean, neat, and welcoming vibe to shoppers. Keep things simple by adding a few decorative accessories that will liven up the store without distracting clientele. You might also consider using decor to make the overall shopping experience less overwhelming for first-timers.

Instructions

1. Hang posters of active people who appear to be in good health at different places in the store. Remember to display a wide range of people including senior citizens, athletes, and babies, since they could attract buying customers. With these in the store, you'll make the space more personal and less warehouse-like.

2. Low-maintenance indoor plants can liven up the space.

Purchase a few low-maintenance plants for the store, and place them near the windows and cash register. Not only do plants help purify the indoor air, but they also add color and beauty to the space.

3. Use end tables to create eye catching displays for a few key products. This presentation will help products stand out from the array of others, and it allows you to be creative with how you present items to customers. You can stack the product in the shape of a pyramid or surround it with related items such as bottled water. Placing plants, free brochures, pens or business cards on your end tables is a quick decorative solution that won't distract buyers.

4. Place mini chalkboards at different places throughout the store to display pertinent information such as prices, discounts and tips. Use colored chalk as a decorative accent and move the chalk boards around as frequently as you'd like. For the sake of ease, chalk boards should be clean and legible allowing customers to read them from a distance.

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Sources Of Provitamin A

Provitamin A or beta-carotene can be confused with vitamin A, which is known as retinol. Provitamin A and other carotenoids are formed into vitamin A by our body and then used for various functions like our vision, skin health, and healthy bone development. Provitamin A and vitamin A can be found naturally in many different foods.

Function

Provitamin A is a carotene or carotenoid, which is a substance synthesized by plants but cannot be made by animals. This is why our body converts provitamin A into vitamin A that can be used. Vitamin A, or retinol, is a fat-soluble vitamin. Around 90 percent of retinol is stored in the liver and the rest is stored in the intestines and kidneys.

Food Sources

Beta-carotenes are mainly found in yellow-orange and dark green vegetables. They are also found in some fruits, like oranges, limes, pineapples, cantaloupes and prunes. Also, fortified margarine contains beta-carotene. Retinol can be found in certain animal products like liver, butter, cheese, egg yolks, fish liver oils and fortified milk. Retinol is found mainly in animal foods and carotenoids are found in most plant foods.

Importance

Vitamin A and provitamin A are required for many of our body's functions. Vitamin A assists in maintaining our skin's pigment and mucous membranes. It also helps with normal development of bones and teeth. It is needed for normal reproductive capabilities. It has recently been discovered to have antioxidant effects that may help prevent cancer, according to the BC Cancer Agency.

Deficiency

Having a vitamin A deficiency can present many symptoms and conditions. Night blindness is a common first sign of people with a vitamin A deficit. Dry skin and hair, skin sores, dry conjuctiva, and clouding of the cornea are also symptoms. An increased occurrence of respiratory, digestive and urogenital infections can also be a sign of a vitamin A deficiency.

Excess Intake

Vitamin A and provitamin A can be toxic at a level greater than 10 mg a day for a long period, over months at a time. Symptoms of excess levels are nausea, vomiting, headaches, hair loss, bone and joint pain, fragile bones, or an enlarged liver and spleen. Other signs include some mild skin conditions, like peeling of the skin.

Did You Know?

Vitamin A gets stored in your body in large amounts. Your liver can hold the required amount of vitamin A your body needs for an entire year! Also, eating a serving of animal liver can equal up to 1,000 times the recommended daily amount of vitamin A.

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Vitamin B5 For Acne

Vitamin B5 for Acne

Vitamin B5, otherwise known as pantothenic acid, is a vitamin known to reduce or eliminate acne. It is a water-soluble vitamin that when taken internally or topically can help in the treatment of acne.

Vitamin B5 In Trial Studies

In trial studies, vitamin B5 helped to shrink the size of pores and eliminate acne through a daily 10 to 20 gram supplement and 20 percent topical solution. Within a week to one month those participating in the trial noticed clearer skin.

Foods Containing Vitamin B5

Foods also contain quantities of vitamin B5 and can help in ridding of acne. Vitamin B5 is found in eggs, soybeans, peanuts, mushrooms, royal jelly and whole wheat.

Vitamin B5 Deficiency

One cause of acne is vitamin B5 deficiency. The vitamin is needed to properly metabolize coenzyme-A, a fat metabolizing protein. If fats are not properly metabolized, pores easily clog.

Dosage

Vitamin B5 for acne can be taken in pill, time-released pill, powder and topical forms. When taken internally, start with the maximum dose, then reduce and maintain the dosage when skin clears.

Warnings

Vitamin B5 in excess may cause diarrhea, hair loss and vitamin deficiencies in higher amounts. A B-complex vitamin is recommended in conjunction with B5 supplementation.

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Vitamin B5 As A Treatment For Acne & Blackheads

An example of a person with severe acne.

Acne is a skin problem that frequently affects teens and sometimes even adults. Pimples or zits develop when hormones in the body release too much oil, causing pores to become clogged. Generally, skin outbreaks occur on the face, neck, back and shoulders. Vitamin B5 is considered a natural treatment for acne problems. It must be taken in large doses, however, for it to be fully effective in combating acne.

How Does Vitamin B5 Work?

Acne forms when too much oil is being released into the body. According to the Acne Specialist, this occurs when fatty acid deposits underneath the skin are not properly getting broke down. Vitamin B5 works to regulate the oil-producing glands and maintain them at the proper level. Once there is enough vitamin B5 in your system, the glands will begin functioning properly and acne will cease.

In 1997, Dr. Lit-Hung Leung published a study that proved vitamin B5, or pantothenic acid, was an effective treatment for acne. He tested vitamin B5 on 100 patients and found a decrease in oil secretion on the face within two to three days after the initial therapy. Leung also found that a person with moderate acne was generally cured within eight weeks of treatment, meaning most of the acne was gone, and new acne occurred only occasionally.

Vitamin B5, however, is water soluble, meaning excess of the vitamin that your body doesn't need will be released through urination. Some doctors believe that excess of vitamin B5 supplements taken for acne will be excreted through the urine and, therefore, will be mostly ineffective in treating acne.

Dosage Recommendations

There are several different B5 supplements available for acne treatments in both powder and tablet form. Some examples include: Solgar, SkinB5, Vilantae and Clear5. While dosage recommendations vary between brands, in general you should take about 10 grams a day. To help your body adjust to the supplement, start the first couple of days taking five grams, and then slowly increase the dosage.

It is hard to determine when you will begin seeing results since all bodies react differently to the treatment. Some people may report positive results within four weeks, while for others it may take up to six months. Once you begin noticing your acne is clearing, however, lower the dosage to a maintenance level that best works for your skin.

Possible Side Effects

During the first few months of treatment, you may experience diarrhea or stomach irritation. This side effect, however, should fade once your body adjusts to the B5 supplement.

Also, since this treatment requires such large doses of vitamin B5, your body may become deficient in other essential B vitamins. According to the Natural Acne Solution, B vitamins work with each other to carry out bodily functions, and must be kept in balance to work properly. If you are taking an excess of vitamin B5, your body will try to leach onto other B vitamins in order to maintain a proper ratio with each other, and thus lead to a vitamin deficiency.

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The Best Diet For Alcoholism

Vitamin deficiencies take their toll on the alcoholic's body and proper diet and supplementation are necessary. An alcoholic must first stop consuming alcohol. Even small amounts of alcohol can create nutritional problems. Correcting the alcoholic's diet can lead to a sense of well-being and healing as physical, mental and emotional changes of alcohol recovery are taking place.

Identify Problems

Most alcoholics start their road to recovery in poor health with malnutrition, several forms of indigestion or gastrointestinal problems, diarrhea, nausea, obesity and hypertension. Many of these issues can be resolved by not drinking and correcting poor eating habits. 

A number of major illnesses are associated with the nutritional instability of alcoholics, such as osteoporosis, kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, heart disease, diabetes, pancreatitis and Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome. 

In regard to nutrition and diet, Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome can be the most detrimental to the body. It is an avoidable and alcohol-related thiamin deficiency brought on by excessive alcohol consumption. The result is the body's inability to absorb nutrients, damaging the neurons in the brain.

Eat Healthy

It is easier to plan your diet if you know what vitamin values your foods contain. A nutritionist can assist you in setting up a diet and monitoring your progress. Although not a necessity, this support is often helpful in the beginning of treatment to refocus the alcoholic's attention from his drinking onto his physical health. 

Individuals may supplement their diet with amino acids and B vitamins lost because of alcoholism. 

Protein is important in alcoholic recovery. If tastefully tolerated, the vitamin A and thiamin benefit from a once-weekly serving of lamb or calf liver is recommended. Consume skinless poultry, lean beef and baked or grilled fish at a minimum of 4 oz. per day. Beans, lentils, soybeans and egg whites are also good sources of protein and may be substituted as vegetarian choices.

Eat 3 oz. weekly of fish containing fatty acids like sardines and salmon.

Increase your intake of vitamin C and antioxidants. Eat five servings of fresh fruits and vegetables daily

Good sources of thiamin are brown rice, oats, whole wheat pasta and whole grains. Whole grains also play a role in blood glucose management, which helps lessen the risk of type 2 diabetes. 

Pay attention to magnesium and zinc as they support healthy bone cells and the immune system. 
Beans, almonds, sesame seeds, wheat germ, dried figs, lemons and almonds can help increase magnesium. Zinc can be supplemented with brewer's yeast, pumpkin seed, eggs and very lean beef. 

Limiting sugar and caffeine intake will not only ease withdrawal symptoms but can greatly lower alcohol cravings.

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Vitamins To Build Collagen

Vegetables rich in color such as tomatoes and spinach are also rich in vitamins A and C.

Collagen occurs naturally in your body as a protein compound responsible for keeping your skin firm and supple. As you age, your skin naturally decreases collagen production and when combined with sun exposure results in premature aging. Specific vitamins support collagen production and can be ingested through food or vitamin supplements.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is typically recognized for supporting the body's immune system. It's also the main ingredient in collagen, reports Dr. Imelda Angeles-Agdeppa of the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Philippines. Vitamin C binds connective skin tissue in addition to promoting healthy cell regrowth. Many fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamin C such as strawberries, oranges and leafy greens. Any fresh, uncooked produce typically carries high amounts of this collagen-producing nutrient.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E supports collagen by encouraging regular cell renewal and regeneration. According to an article in Annals of Surgery, while vitamin C promotes collagen production, vitamin E synthesizes and fuses the amino acids necessary to create the collagen protein. The nutrient is also critical in healing ulcers and wounds. Foods rich in vitamin E include nuts, avocados and seeds.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A promotes collagen by fusing cells in a similar way to vitamin C. This nutrient is also required for the production of elastin, the outermost layer of skin on your body that naturally protects your skin from environmental aging factors like sun, according to Skin Care MD. High sources of vitamin A include dark, leafy-green vegetables, beef and liver. Vitamin A is frequently used in skin care products because it encourages cell renewal by slowly peeling back the exterior layers to reveal new, more elastic skin.

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Sport Drinks Vs Water

Whether you exercise for personal fitness or as part of a conditioning program for a competitive sport, you know that replenishing fluids is essential to your performance and your endurance. Deciding to replenish with water or a sports drink depends largely on the sport or exercise, the duration, the intensity and how quickly you dehydrate.

Need for Fluids

Regardless of activity level, everyone must replenish fluids throughout the day to avoid dehydration and ensure the body functions properly. For the more active child or adult who loses more fluids through sweating, replacing fluids is crucial.

For water to be effective, it must be consumed frequently, but without diluting the body's sodium content. Commercially produced sports drinks contain sodium to help replace what is lost during exercise, but only 0.5 to 1 gram of sodium is needed each day. Consider that the average American diet delivers between 8 and 20 grams and you can see why sodium replacement is not a priority for the treadmill walker.

Nutritional Value

Sports drinks contain as much as 14 grams of carbohydrates that come from sucrose syrup and glucose-fructose syrup. They also contain as much as 110 mg of sodium and pack 50 calories. For the intense athlete, these calories are nominal, as they will be burned easily. For the casual walker or sedentary person, 50 calories per drink can add up. Water, on the other hand, has zero calories, zero sodium and zero carbohydrates.

Kids and Dehydration

Active children often increase their fluid intake when the fluid is fruit-flavored. Children younger than 12, however, typically don't lose enough fluid during exercise to warrant electrolyte and carbohydrate replacement. Children might voluntarily consume 91 percent more fluid when it's a sports drink than when it's plain water. For kids at risk of dehydration, whether from exercise, activity or even a mild illness, the increased fluid intake is highly beneficial.

Competitive, active athletes--even those in their early teens--may benefit from sports drinks because the sodium content permits the body to hold the fluid more easily. When the temperature rises during spring and summer months, sports drinks could make even more sense, as sweating increases.

Concerns About Carbohydrates

If you're watching your carbohydrate intake, the label on the bottle of your favorite sports drink could be alarming. But that depends on your activity level. If you are working your muscles at a high intensity for an hour or longer, you need to replace carbohydrates lost in the blood sugar used for energy. A good rule of thumb is 30 to 60 grams of carbs for every hour past the first hour of exercise.

Concerns About Sodium

Electrolyte replacement is one of the most widely publicized benefits of sports drinks. Among these electrolytes is sodium. While sodium might not necessarily need to be replaced during exercise, it can help increase thirst, which can lead to more fluid intake. And that leads to better hydration. For serious athletes who are exercising more than four hours, sodium replacement offsets the sodium lost while sweating.

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Use Fertility Blend Sp1 To Get Pregnant

Fertility Blend Sp-1 is a dietary supplement designed to support successful conception and pregnancy. This proprietary blend contains ingredients such as kelp, saw palmetto and sarsaparilla. The supplement is delivered in capsules, which are taken up to three times a day. Side effects of Fertility Blend Sp-1 include nausea, diarrhea and abdominal pain. Women using Fertility Blend Sp-1 should have their progress monitored by a doctor, as this herbal supplement is not FDA approved.

Instructions

1. Consult your doctor while taking Fertility Blend Sp-1 to monitor your hormonal changes while taking the supplement. Your doctor may recommend bloodwork during your menstrual cycle to watch hormone levels.

2. Take two Fertility Blend Sp-1 capsules up to three times daily. The capsules can be taken with water. Fertility Blend can be started at any point in your menstrual cycle and can be taken until your pregnancy is confirmed.

3. Continue taking Fertility Blend for seven consecutive days, then discontinue treatment. After your next menstrual period, resume treatment with the supplement. This will help regulate your menstrual cycle and ensure your body is prepared to support a pregnancy.

4. Monitor your menstrual cycle while taking Fertility Blend by tracking your basal body temperature each morning before rising or using an ovulation predictor kit to determine when ovulation occurs. Ovulation predictor kits monitor the amount of luteinizing hormone in your urine; when this hormone increases, the test strip will show a positive result, indicating that ovulation will occur within 12-36 hours.

5. Time your intercourse. When an ovulation predictor kit or your basal body temperature confirms ovulation is about to occur, this is the best time to have intercourse to increase the chances of conception. Repeat this process as necessary to become pregnant.

6. Once your pregnancy has been confirmed, discontinue using Fertility Blend. Your doctor may prescribe progesterone supplements to continue the hormone stabilizing effect that Fertility Blend provides.

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