Which Vitamins do what in the body, part 2

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VITAMINS

Multiple Vitamins

A well balanced diet should provide all the nutrients we need, but up to 90% of available vitamins can be lost from food by the process of peeling, freezing and cooking. If your dietary balance is less than it should be, you may wish to supplement it by taking a multivitamin and mineral formula.

Vitamin B Complex

These vitamins are collectively known as a complex which comprises of B1(thiamine), B2 (riboflavine), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B12 (cyanocobalamin) folic acid and biotin. They are water soluble and not stored by the body. The B vitamins are needed for the release of energy from food, maintaining a healthy digestive system, normal functioning of the brain, metabolism of fats and production of red blood cells and haemoglobin.

Vitamin B6

Needed for the metabolism of protein, health of the nervous system, production of vital chemicals such as serotonin (brain and mood hormone) and to maintain fluid balance.

Folic Acid

Essential for formation of iron carrying haemoglobin, metabolism of RNA and DNA, production of digestive acid and is important before and during the early stages of pregnancy.

Vitamin C & Bioflavonoids

This unique nutrient is involved with at least 300 biochemical pathways in the body. It is a water-soluble vitamin and we need a daily supply to replenish body tissues. The main function is to neutralise harmful free radicals arising from environmental sources and metabolism by-produce. It is also needed for the formation of collagen and health of the capillaries. Bioflavonoids accompany Vitamin C in food and assist in the absorption and functioning of Vitamin C.

Vitamin E

The most powerful anti-oxidant in the body, which literally "soaks up" highly reactive free radicals. Protects polyunsaturated fats from being oxidised into saturated fat and protects the membranes and blood vessels. Popular with athletes because of it's role in supplying oxygen to the muscles and a favourite with women going through the menopause.

Minerals cannot be made in the body and must be obtained from our diet. They make up a significant proportion of body structure, being present in bones, teeth, tissues, muscles, nerve cells and blood. In fact, 4-5% of our total body weight can be attributed to minerals. Modern farming methods tend to deplete these vital elements along with food process which can lead to specific health problems.

Calcium

The most abundant mineral in the body with 99% of it be present in the bones and the teeth. The remainder is responsible for nerve impulse transmission to the muscles and the heart. Diets low in dairy produce may be providing insufficient amounts.

Selenium

An essential trace element, vital for the production of important tissue enzyme necessary for all cell integrity. It is only needed in small amounts but a lack of it can have significant effects on disease processes and ageing.

Depending on where you live can make a difference to your intake as it is found in the soil, and has been hailed as 'Europe's missing mineral'.

Zinc

An anti-oxidant trace element involved in hundreds of enzymes in the body. Needed for healthy immune and reproductive systems, tissue renewal and skin maintenance. Up to 20°/ the zinc in our bodies is present in the skin.

Suzi

What is a weed? A plant whose virtues have not yet been discovered.

http://suziesgoats.wholefoodfarmacy.com/

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