A GUIDE TO VITAMINS & NUTRIENTS

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Acidophilus

Lactobacillus acidophilus is a 'friendly' organism which helps

the body

fight disease and restore health. Modern research has discovered

that

acidophilus kills the harmful bacteria strain of E. coli in the

intestinal

tract. Acidophilus breaks milk sugar down into lactic acid.

Bacteria which

produce putrefaction and gas in the intestines cannot live in

lactic acid.

Acidophilus also has the unique ability to help the body

synthesize, or

manufacture all of the 'B' vitamins in the system. This makes it

especially

valuable since there is literally a host of agents which destroy

B vitamins.

A few are antibiotics, birth control pills, eating sugar and

refined foods

and drinking coffee. A diet high in red meat will destroy the

beneficial

bacteria, due to the concentration of antibiotics and steroids

given to the

animals before they are slaughtered.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Raw or unfiltered Apple cider vinegar helps the body get rid of

toxins and

nourishes the digestive processes. It is also high in Potassium.

Read about the Health Benefits of Raw Apple Cider Vinegar

B Complex

B-complex vitamins play many roles in the human body, but

primarily they

nourish the brain and nervous system. A diet high in refined

foods or a life

full of stress puts a greater demand on the body for these

important

nutrients. B1 - skin, eyes, hair; B2 - nourishes the tissues of

the body; B6

- mild diuretic, PMS; B12 - anxiety and depression; Folic Acid -

works

synergistically with B12, cell division and replication; Biotin -

metabolism

of protein, fats and carbohydrates, cholesterol; B3 (Niacin) -

energy

production; Pantothenic acid - nourishes the adrenal glands which

help the

body to withstand stress; PABA - works synergistically with folic

acid;

Choline bitartrate - helps make acetylcholine, an important

neurotransmitter

in the brain; Inositol - metabolism of fat and cholesterol;

absorption and

utilization of fat.

Bee Pollen

Bee pollen is a rich source of many nutrients, including amino

acids. It

bursts with easily assimilated protein and lecithin, which

nourish the brain

and nervous system. Bee Pollen nutritionally supports the body in

many ways,

including assisting with vitality and a feeling of well-being. It

has been

used by athletes, along with Ginseng, to maintain energy and

stamina.

Bioflavonoids

Bioflavonoids are nutrients which are related to the Vitamin C

family. They

cannot be synthesized by the body, and therefore must be obtained

from food

or supplements. Bioflavonoids are helpful in nourishing the

integrity and

strength of capillaries and cells.

Biotin

Biotin assists in the metabolism of fat and protein. It nourishes

muscles.

Black Currant Oil

Black currant oil is rich in linoleic acid and gamma-linolenic

acid (GLA).

This substance supports the body's manufacture of hormone-like

substances

known as prostaglandins which help regulate functions of the

circulatory

system. GLA assists the body with its energy processes and is a

structural

component of the brain, bone marrow, muscles and cell membranes.

Borage Oil

Borage oil is an excellent source of gamma-linolenic acid. It

also nourishes

the heart.

Boron

Boron may retard bone loss.

Calcium

Calcium is essential to strong bones and may prevent osteoporosis.

Calcium Pantothenate

Calcium pantothenate nutritionally supports the glandular system

and helps

promote a feeling of well-being.

Caprylic Acid

Caprylic acid is a nutrient from coconuts which helps burst yeast

cells and

hinder their reproduction.

Carnitine

L-carnitine is an amino acid which nourishes the heart, nourishes

and

strengthens muscles, and nutritionally supports the circulatory

system.

L-Carnitine is considered to be a " carrier " of fat to the

mitochondria or

" fatburning " area of the cell. This remarkable amino acid-like

substance is

not only necessary for the metabolism of fat at the cellular

level; it is

also essential in the forming of firm, lean muscle tissue in the

body.

Recent studies support earlier research which shows that the

heart has the

greatest amount of L-Carnitine of any muscle in the body. L-

Carnitine has

also shown to be instrumental in the metabolism of cholesterol.

Some

overweight people may lack L-Carnitine in their bodies. The heart

produces

most of its energy from fats; thus is dependent upon L-carnitine.

An

L-Carnitine deficiency causes extreme metabolic impairment to

heart tissue.

On the other hand, supplemental L-Carnitine has proved to be

beneficial to

heart patients.

Cayenne

Cayenne is a pepper well known for its benefits to the

circulatory system.

It aids the body to balance pressure levels and resist abnormal

bleeding.

Cayenne also nourishes the digestive system. This plant assists

in the

body's utilization of other herbs, when used in an herbal

combination. When

applied topically, it helps relieve minor discomfort.

Celery Seed

Celery seeds contain vitamins A, C and B-complex.

Chitosan

Chitosan provides a natural source of fiber and acts like other

dietary

fibers by benefiting the circulatory system. It also helps the

body maintain

normal functions of digestion and elimination. Researchers

believe that if

we cleanse our colon with frequent bowel movements, we can rid

ourselves of

these dangerous toxins, therefore reducing our risk for disease.

And how do

we create this cleansing process? Fiber is the most important

source in

reducing your chances. Chitosan is a natural dietary fiber.

Choline

Choline helps in the formation of acetylcholine, a

neurotransmitter, which

assists brain function and health. It also helps the body break

down fats

effectively.

Chromium

Chromium is necessary for the body to convert glucose to energy.

A U.S.

Department of Agriculture study has shown that nine out of ten

Americans get

less than the low end range of chromium recommended by the

National Academy

of Sciences. Biologically-active chromium (as found in

ChromaTone), helps

maximize the body's efficient use of insulin. Insulin regulates

the

metabolism of blood sugar, lipids (including cholesterol) and

protein.

Studies also indicate that chromium, when combined with

appropriate

exercise, has very positive muscle-tissue building and toning

properties.

Chromium Polynicotinate

Chromium polynicotinate is nutritionally beneficial as an

appetite

suppressant and for normalizing blood sugars.

Co-enzyme Q10

Studies that have been conducted on this co-enzyme in the past 40

years

demonstrate that it can help maintain healthy immune and

cardiovascular

systems, tissues and organs, and oral health (especially the

gums). It also

assists the body to maintain proper weight balance.

Cranberry

Cranberry contains a compound that prevents bacteria from

adhering to the

walls of the bladder and rest of the urinary tract. This prevents

the

bacteria from spreading and eventually results in the halt of

infection.

Using cranberry on a regular basis may help prevent the formation

of kidney

stones.

Cruciferous Vegetables

Research conducted by Dr. Jon Michnovicz of the Institute for

Hormone

Research and Dr. Leon Bradlow of the Strang Institute, suggests

that

increased consumption of cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli,

cabbage

and Brussels sprouts may reduce the risk of certain cancers,

particularly

breast cancer. Cruciferous vegetables contain indoles - a unique

class of

phytonutrients that have been scientifically shown to balance

hormone

levels, detoxify the intestines and liver and reinforce the

body's immune

system.

DHEA

DHEA is a short name for the fancier name of

Dehydroepiandrosterone, a

hormone normally produced by the adrenal glands, but which

diminishes as a

person ages. It is a precursor to male (androgens) and female

(estrogens)

steroid hormones. DHEA seems to increase a feeling of vitality in

many

people.

Enzymes

The enzymes Amylase, Cellulase, Invertase, Lipase, Protease,

Glucoamylase

act as catalysts for proper assimilation of vitamins, minerals,

fats,

proteins and carbohydrates.

Essential Fatty Acids

Essential fatty acids (EFA), sometimes referred to as vitamin F,

cannot be

made from the body - they must be supplied in the diet. Essential

fatty

acids nourish the body at the very foundation of health . . . at

the

cellular level. They strengthen cell membranes to fortify against

the

invasion of harmful microorganisms. These nutrients also help

dissolve body

fat and increase metabolism and energy production. Thus, they are

also very

helpful in a comprehensive weight management program. Essential

Fatty Acids

help reduce cravings for sweet and fatty foods.

Evening Primrose Oil

Evening primrose oil supplies both linolenic and linoleic

essential fatty

acids.

Folic Acid (Folate)

Folic acid is a vitamin that stimulates the formation of normal

red blood

cells. Folic acid helps nourish the skin and nervous system.

One alcoholic drink per day will cause loss of B1, B6 and Folic

Acid

B6 (50mg.), B12 (1000 mg.), Folate (as folic acid 800 mg.) and

Trimethyl

Glycine (1000 mg.) according to a study will remove plaque from

arteries.

Garlic

Garlic provides nourishment for the circulatory, immune and

urinary systems.

It aids in supporting with normal circulation, nourishing stomach

tissues,

maintaining normal blood pressure and aids the body's natural

ability to

resist disease. Garlic is a natural antibiotic and fungicide.

Germanium

This trace mineral is a potent antioxidant. It improves oxygen

flow to

cells, and strengthens the immune system. It has pain-relieving

properties

and studies have shown that organic germanium (sesquioxide) can

nutritionally support the body's defense system. Many people have

attributed

remarkable benefits with the intake of Germanium. One woman had

suffered

many years with arthritis, nervous problems and a painful muscle

disease

called " fibrositis. " She could not stand to even barely be

touched because

it caused her such agony. This person began taking one capsule

daily of 30

mg. of germanium sesquioxide, which also had odorless garlic

added. She

said, " Now I'm on 'cloud nine' since taking Germanium ... and I

have so much

energy, I don't know what to do with it all! "

Glucosamine

Glucosamine stimulates the body's manufacture of collagen, the

protein

portion of the fibrous substance that holds joints together.

Collagen is

also the main component of the shock-absorbing cushion called

articular

cartilage — the white smooth surface which covers the ends of

body joints —

such as those in the wrist, fingers, toes, ankles, knees, hips

and between

the discs of the spine.

Glycogen

Glycogen is the body's natural form of stored energy. Glycogen

provides the

long drive of energy known as the athlete's " second wind. " Stored

half in

the muscles and half in the liver, glycogen is enzymatically

controlled for

a natural time release of energy to maintain necessary blood

sugar levels.

Grapefruit Pectin

Grapefruit pectin (derived from the pulp and rind of this citrus

fruit) is a

type of fiber which can bind toxins and help eliminate them from

the body.

Grapeseed Extract

Grapeseed extract is a rich source of potent antioxidant

bioflavonoids known

as proanthocyanidins. Grape seed extract provides 92-95% potency,

as

compared to 80-84% yielded by pine bark. This means that its

antioxidant and

nutritional properties are far superior. According to

proanthocyanidin

researcher, Dr. Jack Masquelier, only grape seeds contain

powerful gallic

esters, dynamic ingredients in the battle against free radicals.

Inositol

Inositol nourishes the brain and helps balance cholesterol

levels. It also

helps the body break down fats effectively.

Iodine

The thyroid depends upon minerals, especially iodine, to function

properly

and to secrete adequate amounts of thyroxine and

triiodothyronine. These

hormones influence metabolic rate and body temperature, as well

as regulate

protein, fat, and carbohydrate utilization in cells.

Iron

In North America, 58% of the population consume less than the

recommended

daily amount of iron. Iron deficiency is the single most common

nutrient

deficiency in the world today. Growing children, females and

athletes all

have increased need for iron in order to avoid anemia. Iron is

vital to

healthy blood and an essential part of the oxygen-carrying

hemoglobin of the

blood.

Kelp

Kelp contains nearly thirty minerals which nourish the glands

(especially

the thyroid and pituitary). By enhancing the action of the

glandular system,

it helps balance the body's metabolism and rate at which it burns

calories.

Kelp, also known as seaweed, grows in the rich ocean beds, far

below surface

pollution levels. Because of its high nutrient content, this herb

is

reputedly beneficial for a wide range of applications. It is

known to

nourish the sensory nerves, brain membranes, also spinal cord and

brain

tissue. Kelp contains alginic acid which can help protect the

body against

the effects of radiation.

Lecithin

Lecithin is essential to every cell and organ in the body. It

provides

nourishment to the body so that the body can regulate metabolism,

increase

defenses and break down fat and cholesterol.

Magnesium

Magnesium helps with the absorption of calcium, phosphorus,

sodium,

potassium, B complex, C and E.

Manganese

When manganese is bound or " chelated " with specific amino acids,

it targets

parts of the body to help metabolism. When manganese is chelated

with the

amino acids proline, histidine, and glutamic acid, it travels

through the

blood to the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is the organ below

the brain

which is responsible for regulating many body functions,

including

temperature, appetite and sleep. The chelated manganese increases

the

natural thyrotropin-releasing hormone secreted by the

hypothalamus. This

hormone, known as T.R.H., has a direct effect on the master gland

(pituitary).

Melatonin

Melatonin is produced in the body by the pineal gland in the

brain.

Tryptophan, an amino acid found in food, is taken in by the body

and made

into serotonin, a neurotransmitter (conductor of nerve signals).

The pineal

gland takes the serotonin and makes it into melatonin, but only

during the

night. (The enzymes in the brain which change serotonin into

melatonin are

inactivated by light). Norepinephrine is another neurotransmitter

which

assists in melatonin production. It acts as a catalyst to

melatonin

production by stimulating cells in the pineal gland to begin

making

melatonin in the absence of light. Sometimes, for one reason or

another, the

body does not produce adequate amounts of melatonin for its

needs. This can

result in insomnia and depression, among other symptoms. The

body's ability

to synthesize melatonin may decrease with age.

Minerals

Trace (micro) and major (macro) minerals play a crucial role in

maintaining

health. It is well-established that some mineral deficiencies can

be linked

to physical conditions including grey hair, baldness, asthma,

eczema,

psoriasis, epilepsy, diabetes, arthritis and mental illness.

MSM

MSM is simply an acronym for methylsulfonylmethane, a dietary

source of

sulfur that naturally supports the immune system and plays a

major role in

the formation of enzymes and hormones that control body

activities.

Niacin

Niacin is nutritionally beneficial for circulation. Niacin

reduces

low-density lipid (LDL) forms of cholesterol and improves

peripheral blood

flow.

Nicotinamide

Nicotinamide nourishes the digestive and circulatory systems.

Noni

The noni plant has many folk-remedy uses. It is fabled among the

Polynesian

peoples to especially help support the body's respiratory,

immune,

digestive, and structural systems.

Octacosanol

Octacosanol is derived from wheat germ oil and helps improve

endurance and

stamina.

PABA

PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid) helps assimilate pantothenic acid

and

nourishes the skin.

Papaya

Papaya contains an enzyme called papain which helps the body

break down

protein.

Parsley

Parsley is valued as a blood builder, cleanser and has pressure

regulating

properties.

Potassium

Potassium nourishes the heart, kidneys, pancreas, muscles and the

nerves. It

assists in the growth and repair of body tissues, and also helps

conduct

messages in the body through the nervous system. Potassium helps

regulate

blood pressure. There must be a balanced potassium-to-sodium

ratio in the

body for all systems to function at their optimum level.

Quercetin

Quercetin has been shown to help the body defend itself against

harmful

microorganisms.

Resveratrol

Red wine extract contains the recently acclaimed flavonoid,

resveratrol.

Resveratrol is found naturally in many fruits and vegetables,

however, red

wine and other grape products are the richest source. Recent

research has

linked resveratrol supplementation with enhanced immune and

cardiovascular

support.

Rhubarb

Rhubarb can help dissolve mucus adhering to the walls of the colon.

Salmon Oil

Salmon oil is rich in Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids. These

nutrients are

recognized as having many beneficial properties. They include

regulating the

body's production of cholesterol, and strengthening cell walls,

fortifying

them against the invasion of viruses and bacteria.

Selenium

Selenium is a mineral that reinforces the body's defense system.

Vitamin B1

Vitamin B1 (thiamine) has positive effects on the nervous system,

mental

well-being, skin, eyes, and hair.

Vitamin B1 can be used for seasickness.

One alcoholic drink per day will cause loss of B1, B6 and Folic

Acid

Vitamin B2

Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) nourishes skin, nails, hair, growth,

reproduction

and vision. The body needs more of this nutrient during stress

situations.

Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine HCL) is necessary to metabolize B12 in the

body. It

helps the body release excess water and nourishes the nervous

system.

Increase your intake of B6 if you are planning a High Protein Diet

One alcoholic drink per day will cause loss of B1, B6 and Folic

Acid

B6 (50mg.), B12 (1000 mg.), Folate (as folic acid 800 mg.) and

Trimethyl

Glycine (1000 mg.) according to a study will remove plaque from

arteries.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is used in the production of energy and

it nourishes

the nervous system. Vitamin B12 supports the maturation of red

blood cells.

B6 (50mg.), B12 (1000 mg.), Folate (as folic acid 800 mg.) and

Trimethyl

Glycine (1000 mg.) according to a study will remove plaque from

arteries.

Vitamin C

We do not produce our own vitamin C — it must be obtained from

our diet.

Science continues to confirm, with ever increasing evidence, the

benefits of

the C vitamin family to especially nourish the body's structural

and defense

systems. Vitamin C strengthens cells and tissues and helps build

the body's

defense system.

25 mgs of Vitamin C are lost with each Cigarette

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant and helps the body cope with

toxic

substances such as air pollution. It also helps protect the cells

and

increase oxygen to them. Research shows that animals who were

exposed to

various concentrations of ozone and took vitamin E lived longer

than animals

whose diets were not supplemented with this nutrient. Vitamin E

strengthens

the circulatory system and may help soothe leg and foot aches

that occur at

night.

Vitamin F

Vitamin F, also know as Essential Fatty Acids (EFA), cannot be

made from the

body - they must be supplied in the diet. Essential fatty acids

nourish the

body at the cellular level. They strengthen cell membranes to

fortify

against the invasion of harmful microorganisms. These nutrients

also help

dissolve body fat and increase metabolism and energy production.

Thus, they

are also very helpful in a comprehensive weight management

program.

Watermelon seeds

Watermelon seeds help the body eliminate excess water.

Whey

Whey is derived from the cheese-making process, and is full of

vitamins and

minerals. It is also a superior protein source, with a protein

efficiency

rating that exceeds that of soy, wheat, and even whole milk. This

means that

the protein in whey is used more efficiently by the body than by

the protein

from these other sources.

Zinc

Zinc is essential for the health of the reproductive organs,

especially in the

male.