Acne and Vitamin Supplements

Since the majority of the worlds population suffer from acne at some point in their lives, there is no surprise that such efforts are invested in finding out how to it. While there have been some definitive answers on whether acne is hormonally induced (yes), and what can be done to prevent it (prescription drugs, certain herbal remedies, etc), there are still many unknown factors that cause acne.

However, of all the many acne questions that science is yet to find answers to, the most controversial is whether or not diet has an effect on acne.

Historically, diet was thought to be linked to acne. Doctors and housewives alike believed that a high fat content in ones diet would cause an oilier complexion, and this in turn would create acne breakouts.

However, as time went on, science found no directly link between a diet high in lipids (fat), and acne. Since acne is caused by a bacterial growth in sebum trapped in clogged pores, there is no such thing as “extra oil secretion”. So, for at least the last 15 years, western medicine has claimed there is no connection between diet and acne.

However, a study conducted in 1997 has rekindled the flame in the “diet causes acne” argument, and this time, with a bit more heat.

This study, conducted by Dr. Lit Hung Leung, states that Acne breakouts are because the body cannot create enough of Coenzyme A to break down the fatty acids that create sebum. The reason is, Coenzyme A is probably the single most needed enzyme in the body. This Coenzyme-A is what synthesizes sex hormones, and what breaks down fatty acids.

The only part of Coenzyme-A that the body does not produce itself is vitamin B5. So, if there is a shortage of B5, there is a shortage of Coenzyme-A. And if there is a shortage of Coenzyme-A, the body will use it to synthesize sex hormones, not break down fatty acids.

So, you can see where this is going…more fatty acids, more sebum production, more acne.

Now, the interesting thing is that Dr. Lit Hung Leung substantiated this claim by testing it on 100 people. The group took 10 grams or more per day of pantothenic acid ( B5 ), and used a B5 topical cream of 20% by weight. After 2-3, sebum production was reduced, and many people with acne noticed a reduction. For those with more extreme acne, a higher dosage of B5 was used (approx. 15-20 grams per day), and treatment was prolonged to see an effect, sometimes up to 6 months.

So, while one study does not definitively prove whether B5 can prevent or reduce acne, it may well be worth considering, particularly for those who want a natural or herbal cure for acne, and do not want to use chemicals such as benzoyl peroxide, or other prescription acne treatments.

As with any medical treatment, it is best to consult a doctor before trying a B5 regimine.

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Vitamins and Hair Loss

Many women and men are looking for the perfect solution to treat hair loss. Most men and women feel that the outer appearance is very important if you want to be successful. That's why there is great need for hair loss products..

Although there are numerous causes for hair loss, dietary insufficiency is found to be a major one.

Hair loss can be caused by a deficiency in B vitamins- especially B6, inositol, Biotin, and folic acid. B vitamins, especially B5 (pantothenic acid) and B3 (Niacin) are an important part in growth of hair follicle.

In order to cure hair loss, Vitamin supplement intake should be performed carefully. Reasearch shows that an excessive intake of vitamin B6 by men resulted in stimulated hair growth. Deficiency in folic acid caused complete baldness among some men.

The main function of Vitamin E is to transport oxygen in the blood and improves the scalp circulation. Vitamin E enhances the immune function and thereby the health of the hair gets improved. That's why Vitamin E can also be considered a hair loss vitamin. Vitamin E can be consumed @ 400 IU daily.

Vitamin C can also be considered a hair loss vitamin since it improves circulation of the scalp and maintains all capillaries, which carry blood to the follicles. This vitamin may be consumed 5,000 mg daily.

Other hair loss vitamins are Biotin, Inositol, and B-Vitamins. Biotin maintains the health of the hair. You should eat plenty of food to prevent hair loss due to biotin deficiency. You can also consume 50 mg of Biotin twice daily through food.

This will definitely bring fruitful results. The following food is recommended: bulgur, green peas, lentils, walnuts, sunflower seeds, soybeans, oats, bulgur, Brewer’s yeast and brown rice. Inositol is also being considered a hair loss vitamin. Take 100 mg twice daily for better hair growth.

Excessive intake of Vitamin A can cause hair loss. Once the intake of Vitamin A is stabilized, the hair loss may be stopped.

For better growth of hair, B vitamins are necessary. Among the B vitamins, Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid) and vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) are known as hair loss vitamins. B vitamins are rich in foods like bran, nuts, eggs, soybeans, cauliflower, carrots, peas, and beans. Intake of these vitamins will help to improve quality, texture, and growth of hair.

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The Truth About Supplements

Ultimate Guide to Vitamins & Minerals

The Peoples Chemist Secret Health Files