| BE HEALTHY WITH B VITAMINS
In the last few years more
Canadians than ever before have been taking nutritional supplements.
Numerous studies have demonstrated that most Canadians consume
a diet inadequate in nutritional value. In many cases the
only clue that may suggest a nutrient deficient diet would
be fatigue, lethargy, and many other vague symptoms
B vitamins are becoming more recognized as a supplement of
choice. . They help in a wide range of health conditions.
B-complex vitamins are vital for nervous system function.
They play a vital role in a healthy pregnancy, proper functioning
immune system, mucous membranes, and red blood cells. B vitamins
are necessary for metabolizing fats and proteins.
Experts in the field of nutrition agree that the B vitamins
should be taken in a combination as a B-complex because excess
in any single nutrient can trigger a deficiency in the other
B vitamins. B vitamins also like to work synergistically with
each other. Our North American diet provides only a small
amount of the Recommended Dietary Allowance of B vitamin needed
for optimal health. The processing and preparation of our
food eliminate any benefit, therefore rendering the vitamin
useless.
Deficiencies in vitamin B can result in poor memory, fatigue,
muscle weakness and blindness with long-term deficiencies
causing heart disease, brain damage and possibly death.
Studies show that by maintaining an adequate supply of B vitamins
in the body, you can help prevent many diseases and illnesses:
- Vitamin B6 may be very important
in aspects of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.
Vitamin B decrease levels of homocysteine in the blood,
homocysteine is very damaging to the cells that line the
arteries.
- B complex boosts immunity and encourages the regeneration
of nerves.
- Vitamin B3 or niacin is essential
in the production of energy. It is also involved in the
regulation of blood sugar, antioxidant mechanisms, and for
high cholesterol levels.
- Birth defects – folic acid intake decreases the
risk of spina bifida.
- B-complex is especially important for the elderly. A European
study showed that folate deficiency doubles the risk of
developing Alzheimer’s.
- Anxiety – B-complex helps to decrease stress and
muscle tension.
Remember to take these vitamins with food. You can find vitamin
B in brewer’s yeast, whole grains, wheat germ, beef
liver, among other things. Consult with your Naturopathic
Doctor or other healthcare professionals, as people with certain
health conditions should avoid large doses of B vitamins.
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