Sunday, July 24, 2011


Vitamin D is one of the fat soluble vitamins and is vital to enable the body in the assimilation of calcium. Calcium is needed to strengthen bones and teeth. Being fat soluble, vitamin D get stored unless required by body.

Our bodies do not have any natural mechanism to produce vitamin D, so it is vital to have it in the required quantities. If not in sufficient amounts, a vitamin D supplement intake might become necessary.

Vitamin D is a natural element in some food items and is added to some. Cod liver oil, mackerel, egg yolks, milk, cereal and other food items have vitamin D. Sun rays are also a good source for vitamin D. Well, we don't get it naturally. The ultraviolet rays from the sun stimulate a process in the human body which produces vitamin D.

Of course, too much exposure to sun rays is also harmful. 10 minutes of sun a day is more than sufficient intake of UV rays. It is a perfect example of how things can be beneficial if in proper limits, else dangerous beyond a certain limit.

Vitamin D supplement becomes essential if vitamin D is deficient in our bodies. Children with vitamin D deficiency suffer rickets, which is a result of bones becoming soft and can even cause change in the structure and shape of bones. Women who have this deficiency suffer from bones that can break very easily.

Infants who are only breastfed do not get enough vitamin D. So a vitamin D supplement is advisable for them. Sometimes doctors recommend mothers to administer a vitamin D supplement to their two month old baby if they are not being fed vitamin D rich food or formula.

A 1980 law makes vitamin D addition to baby formula mandatory. The act is aptly called 'the Infant Formula act of 1980'. Its main aim is to make sure that babies are fed the appropriate vitamins and the means used for this are healthy and hygienic.

A vitamin D supplement won't be necessary if you are on a multivitamin diet. Too much of vitamin D can pose a serious threat. Nausea, vomiting and irregularities in heartbeat are common effects of excess vitamin D.

Always have a doctor suggest the appropriate dosage for the vitamin D supplement you are about to begin.

Our skin becomes less capable of absorbing UV rays as we age, so we should increase vitamin D intake as we grow older. A blood test will inform your doctor about the current vitamin D levels and the doctor can suggest you the appropriate method of vitamin D intake based on the results.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2979091

Vitamin C Supplements Benefits - Why You Need Vitamin C


Vitamin C supplements benefits are many as ascorbic acid prevents several debilitating conditions and increases the body's immunity. It is very popular as a cell protector, immune system enhancer and powerful antioxidant agent.

Collagen, tendons and ligaments depend upon Vitamin C to stay strong and healthy. Vitamin C supplements benefits also include recycling other antioxidants and generally, it is better to consume Vitamin C supplements along with other antioxidants like carotenodis, vitamin E and flavonoids.

Vitamin C supplements benefits include rejuvenation and antidote for illnesses such as cold and flu. It reduces the intensity and duration of many health ailments. Wounds are reported to heal much faster since ascorbic acid has inflammation inhibitory action.

Gums are protected by a regular consumption of the ascorbic acid. For this purpose, it is generally taken with flavonoids. The body's protecting system against cardiac ailments is improved if the cholesterol and lipid levels are under control. Vitamin C supplements benefits include keeping these levels under control.

On the other hand, signs of Vitamin C supplements deficiencies include susceptibility to infection particularly bronchial infections and cold, joint ache and altered digestion. Other signs of ascorbic acid deficiencies of are lethargy (lack of energy), susceptibility to bruise easily, weak teeth and poor digestion.

Most popular vitamin C deficiency is the disease called scurvy. This disease is not so common in Western countries; however, it features soft spongy bleeding gums, severe debility, edema, poor wound healing, and bleedings under the skin.

Vitamin C supplements benefits can be achieved if they are consumed on a daily basis for certain period. They are not a onetime dose since the body requires ascorbic acid for maintaining various body systems and their functions. Moreover, since this Vitamin is water soluble, the body loses this through urine. That is why, daily supplements of this Vitamin either through ready made supplements or through foods is advised.

Vitamin C supplements benefits include antioxidant properties, as said before. However, there are many researches that indicate that ascorbic acid prevents certain types of cancer as it protects healthy cells from free-radical damage.

It specifically helps reducing the risks of cancers of the stomach and esophagus. This possible Vitamin C supplement benefits action is due to blockage the conversion of nitrates and nitrites into cancer-causing components.

The vitamin is a very useful in various eye problems such as cataracts. It protects the eyes against cigarette smoke and UV rays that are two of the main causes that give raise to cataracts. Vitamin C supplements benefits enhance when they are taken along with pantothenic acid as for migraines, it is very good.

When used in combination with other antioxidants like vitamin E and flavonoids, ascorbic acid serves as anti-wrinkle agent.

Whatever the Vitamin supplements are taken, it is always better to consult the health care provider for their doses and timings. Over or under doses of vitamins may be harmful to the body. And, rather than benefiting, it may end up with some health ailments.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2032312