Vitamin Supplements

Cobalt

FACTS:

A mineral that is part of vitamin B12.

Usually measured in micrograms [mcg.].

Essential for red blood cells.

Must be obtained from food sources.

No daily allowance has been set for this mineral, and only very small amounts are necessary in the diet [usually no more than 8 mcg.]. Read the rest of this entry »

METHIONINE

Like cystine, this is another sulphur-containing amino acid. Methionine helps in some cases of schizophrenia by lowering the blood level of histamine, which can cause the brain to relay wrong messages. When combined with choline and folic acid, it has been shown to offer protection against certain tumours.

An insufficiency of methionine can break down the body’s ability to process urine and result in oedema (swelling due to retention of fluids in tissues) and susceptibility to infection. A methionine deficiency has also been linked to cholesterol deposits, atherosclerosis, and hair loss in laboratory animals. Read the rest of this entry »

Arginine

This amino acid is necessary for the normal function of the pituitary gland. Along with ornithine, phenylalanine, and other neuro chemicals, arginine is required for the synthesis and release of the pituitary gland’s growth hormone. The need for arginine is especially great in males, since seminal fluids contain as much as 80% of this protein building-block, and a deficiency could lead to infertility.

WHAT IT CAN Do FOR You:

• Increase sperm count in males.
• Aid in immune response and healing of wounds.
• Help metabolize stored body fat and tone up muscle tissue. Read the rest of this entry »

• Sweats and flushes can occur from too much vitamin K. Niacin should be used cautiously by anyone with severe diabetes, glaucoma, peptic ulcers, or with impaired liver function.
• Do not give niacin to your dog or cat; it causes flushing and sweating and greatly discomforts the animal. Do not supplement a pet’s diet with vitamins A or D unless your vet specifically advises it.
• Excessive amounts of PABA (Para-aminobenzoic acid) in certain individuals can have a negative effect on the liver, kidneys, and heart.

• Iron should not be taken by anyone with sickle-cell anaemia, haemochromatosis, or thalassaemia. Read the rest of this entry »