The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) was enacted by the U.S. Congress in 1996. According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) website, Title I of HIPAA protects health insurance coverage for workers and their families when they change or lose their jobs. Title II of HIPAA, known as the Administrative Simplification (AS) provisions, requires the establishment of national standards for electronic health care transactions and national identifiers for providers, health insurance plans, and employers. This is intended to help people keep their information private, though in practice it is normal for providers and health insurance plans to require the waiver of HIPAA rights as a condition of service.
The Administration Simplification provisions also address the security and privacy of health data. The standards are meant to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the nation's health care system by encouraging the widespread use of electronic data interchange in the U.S. health care system.
Title I: Health Care Access, Portability, and Renewability
Title I of HIPAA regulates the availability and breadth of group health plans and certain individual health insurance policies. It amended the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, the Public Health Service Act, and the Internal Revenue Code.
Title I also limits restrictions that a group health plan can place on benefits for preexisting conditions. Group health plans may refuse to provide benefits relating to preexisting conditions for a period of 12 months after enrollment in the plan or 18 months in the case of late enrollment. However, individuals may reduce this exclusion period if they had group health plan coverage or health insurance prior to enrolling in the plan. Title I allows individuals to reduce the exclusion period by the amount of time that they had "creditable coverage" prior to enrolling in the plan and after any "significant breaks" in coverage. "Creditable coverage" is defined quite broadly and includes nearly all group and individual health plans, Medicare, and Medicaid. A "significant break" in coverage is defined as any 63 day period without any creditable coverage.
Some health care plans are exempted from Title I requirements, such as long-term health plans and limited-scope plans such as dental or vision plans that are offered separately from the general health plan. However, if such benefits are part of the general health plan, then HIPAA still applies to such benefits. For example, if the new plan offers dental benefits, then it must count creditable continuous coverage under the old health plan towards any of its exclusion periods for dental benefits.
However, an alternate method of calculating creditable continuous coverage is available to the health plan under Title I. That is, 5 categories of health coverage can be considered separately, including dental and vision coverage. Anything not under those 5 categories must use the general calculation (e.g., the beneficiary may be counted with 18 months of general coverage, but only 6 months of dental coverage, because the beneficiary did not have a general health plan that covered dental until 6 months prior to the application date). Unfortunately, since limited-coverage plans are exempt from HIPAA requirements, the odd case exists in which the applicant to a general group health plan cannot obtain certificates of creditable continuous coverage for independent limited-scope plans such as dental to apply towards exclusion periods of the new plan that does include those coverages.
Hidden exclusion periods are not valid under Title I (e.g., "The accident, to be covered, must have occurred while the beneficiary was covered under this exact same health insurance contract"). Such clauses must not be acted upon by the health plan and also must be re-written so that they comply with HIPAA.
To illustrate, suppose someone enrolls in a group health plan on January 1, 2006. This person had previously been insured from January 1, 2004 until February 1, 2005 and from August 1, 2005 until December 31, 2005. To determine how much coverage can be credited against the exclusion period in the new plan, start at the enrollment date and count backwards until you reach a significant break in coverage. So, the five months of coverage between August 1, 2005 and December 31, 2005 clearly counts against the exclusion period. But the period without insurance between February 1, 2005 and August 1, 2005 is greater than 63 days. Thus, this is a significant break in coverage, and any coverage prior to it cannot be deducted from the exclusion period. So, this person could deduct five months from his or her exclusion period, reducing the exclusion period to seven months. Hence, Title I requires that any preexisting condition begin to be covered on August 1, 2006.
Title II: Preventing Health Care Fraud and Abuse; Administrative Simplification; Medical Liability Reform
Title II of HIPAA defines numerous offenses relating to health care and sets civil and criminal penalties for them. It also creates several programs to control fraud and abuse within the health care system. However, the most significant provisions of Title II are its Administrative Simplification rules. Title II requires the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to draft rules aimed at increasing the efficiency of the health care system by creating standards for the use and dissemination of health care information.
These rules apply to "covered entities" as defined by HIPAA and the HHS. Covered entities include health plans, health care clearinghouses, such as billing services and community health information systems, and health care providers that transmit health care data in a way that is regulated by HIPAA.
Per the requirements of Title II, the HHS has promulgated five rules regarding Administrative Simplification: the Privacy Rule, the Transactions and Code Sets Rule, the Security Rule, the Unique Identifiers Rule, and the Enforcement Rule.
Privacy Rule
The Privacy Rule took effect on April 14, 2003, with a one-year extension for certain "small plans". The HIPAA Privacy Rule regulates the use and disclosure of certain information held by "covered entities" (generally, health care clearinghouses, employer sponsored health plans, health insurers, and medical service providers that engage in certain transactions.) It establishes regulations for the use and disclosure of Protected Health Information (PHI). PHI is any information held by a covered entity which concerns health status, provision of health care, or payment for health care that can be linked to an individual. This is interpreted rather broadly and includes any part of an individual's medical record or payment history.
Covered entities must disclose PHI to the individual within 30 days upon request. They also must disclose PHI when required to do so by law, such as reporting suspected child abuse to state child welfare agencies.
A covered entity may disclose PHI to facilitate treatment, payment, or health care operations, or if the covered entity has obtained authorization from the individual. However, when a covered entity discloses any PHI, it must make a reasonable effort to disclose only the minimum necessary information required to achieve its purpose.
The Privacy Rule gives individuals the right to request that a covered entity correct any inaccurate PHI. It also requires covered entities to take reasonable steps to ensure the confidentiality of communications with individuals. For example, an individual can ask to be called at his or her work number, instead of home or cell phone number.
The Privacy Rule requires covered entities to notify individuals of uses of their PHI. Covered entities must also keep track of disclosures of PHI and document privacy policies and procedures. They must appoint a Privacy Official and a contact person responsible for receiving complaints and train all members of their workforce in procedures regarding PHI.
An individual who believes that the Privacy Rule is not being upheld can file a complaint with the Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights (OCR). However, according to the Wall Street Journal, the OCR has a long backlog and ignores most complaints. "Complaints of privacy violations have been piling up at the Department of Health and Human Services. Between April 2003 and Nov. 30, the agency fielded 23,896 complaints related to medical-privacy rules, but it has not yet taken any enforcement actions against hospitals, doctors, insurers or anyone else for rule violations. A spokesman for the agency says it has closed three-quarters of the complaints, typically because it found no violation or after it provided informal guidance to the parties involved."
Transactions and Code Sets Rule
The HIPAA/EDI provision was scheduled to take effect from October 16, 2003 with a one-year extension for certain "small plans". However, due to widespread confusion and difficulty in implementing the rule, CMS granted a one-year extension to all parties. As of October 16, 2004, full implementation was not achieved and CMS began an open-ended "contingency period". Penalties for non-compliance were not levied. However, all parties are expected to make a "good-faith effort" to come into compliance.
CMS announced that the Medicare contingency period ended July 1, 2005. After July 1, most medical providers that file electronically will have to file their electronic claims using the HIPAA standards in order to be paid. There are exceptions for doctors that meet certain criteria.
Key EDI(X12) transactions used for HIPAA compliance are:
EDI Health Care Claim Transaction set (837) is used to submit health care claim billing information, encounter information, or both, except for retail pharmacy claims (see EDI Retail Pharmacy Claim Transaction). It can be sent from providers of health care services to payers, either directly or via intermediary billers and claims clearinghouses. It can also be used to transmit health care claims and billing payment information between payers with different payment responsibilities where coordination of benefits is required or between payers and regulatory agencies to monitor the rendering, billing, and/or payment of health care services within a specific health care/insurance industry segment.
For example, a state mental health agency may mandate all healthcare claims, Providers and health plans who trade professional (medical) health care claims electronically must use the 837 Health Care Claim: Professional standard to send in claims. As there are many different business applications for the Health Care claim, there can be slight derivations to cover off claims involving unique claims such as for Institutions, Professionals, Chiropractors, and Dentists etc.
EDI Retail Pharmacy Claim Transaction (NCPDP Telecommunications Standard version 5.1) is used to submit retail pharmacy claims to payers by health care professionals who dispense medications, either directly or via intermediary billers and claims clearinghouses. It can also be used to transmit claims for retail pharmacy services and billing payment information between payers with different payment responsibilities where coordination of benefits is required or between payers and regulatory agencies to monitor the rendering, billing, and/or payment of retail pharmacy services within the pharmacy health care/insurance industry segment.
EDI Health Care Claim Payment/Advice Transaction Set (835) can be used to make a payment, send an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) remittance advice, or make a payment and send an EOB remittance advice only from a health insurer to a health care provider either directly or via a financial institution.
EDI Benefit Enrollment and Maintenance Set (834) can be used by employers, unions, government agencies, associations or insurance agencies to enroll members to a payer. The payer is a healthcare organization that pays claims, administers insurance or benefit or product. Examples of payers include an insurance company, health care professional (HMO), preferred provider organization (PPO), government agency (Medicaid, Medicare etc.) or any organization that may be contracted by one of these former groups.
EDI Payroll Deducted and other group Premium Payment for Insurance Products (820) is a transaction set which can be used to make a premium payment for insurance products. It can be used to order a financial institution to make a payment to a payee.
EDI Health Care Eligibility/Benefit Inquiry (270) is used to inquire about the health care benefits and eligibility associated with a subscriber or dependent.
EDI Health Care Eligibility/Benefit Response (271) is used to respond to a request inquire about the health care benefits and eligibility associated with a subscriber or dependent.
EDI Health Care Claim Status Request (276) This transaction set can be used by a provider, recipient of health care products or services or their authorized agent to request the status of a health care claim.
EDI Health Care Claim Status Notification (277) This transaction set can be used by a health care payer or authorized agent to notify a provider, recipient or authorized agent regarding the status of a health care claim or encounter, or to request additional information from the provider regarding a health care claim or encounter. This transaction set is not intended to replace the Health Care Claim Payment/Advice Transaction Set (835) and therefore, is not used for account payment posting. The notification is at a summary or service line detail level. The notification may be solicited or unsolicited.
EDI Health Care Service Review Information (278) This transaction set can be used to transmit health care service information, such as subscriber, patient, demographic, diagnosis or treatment data for the purpose of request for review, certification, notification or reporting the outcome of a health care services review.
EDI Functional Acknowledgement Transaction Set (997) this transaction set can be used to define the control structures for a set of acknowledgments to indicate the results of the syntactical analysis of the electronically encoded documents. Although it is not specifically named in the HIPAA Legislation or Final Rule, it is necessary for X12 transaction set processing . The encoded documents are the transaction sets, which are grouped in functional groups, used in defining transactions for business data interchange. This standard does not cover the semantic meaning of the information encoded in the transaction sets.
Security Rule
The Final Rule on Security Standards was issued on February 20, 2003. It took effect on April 21, 2003 with a compliance date of April 21, 2005 for most covered entities and April 21, 2006 for "small plans". The Security Rule complements the Privacy Rule. While the Privacy Rule pertains to all Protected Health Information (PHI) including paper and electronic, the Security Rule deals specifically with Electronic Protected Health Information (EPHI). It lays out three types of security safeguards required for compliance: administrative, physical, and technical. For each of these types, the Rule identifies various security standards, and for each standard, it names both required and addressable implementation specifications. Required specifications must be adopted and administered as dictated by the Rule. Addressable specifications are more flexible. Individual covered entities can evaluate their own situation and determine the best way to implement addressable specifications. The standards and specifications are as follows:
* Administrative Safeguards – policies and procedures designed to clearly show how the entity will comply with the act
o Covered entities (entities that must comply with HIPAA requirements) must adopt a written set of privacy procedures and designate a privacy officer to be responsible for developing and implementing all required policies and procedures.
o The policies and procedures must reference management oversight and organizational buy-in to compliance with the documented security controls.
o Procedures should clearly identify employees or classes of employees who will have access to electronic protected health information (EPHI). Access to EPHI must be restricted to only those employees who have a need for it to complete their job function.
o The procedures must address access authorization, establishment, modification, and termination.
o Entities must show that an appropriate ongoing training program regarding the handling of PHI is provided to employees performing health plan administrative functions.
o Covered entities that out-source some of their business processes to a third party must ensure that their vendors also have a framework in place to comply with HIPAA requirements. Companies typically gain this assurance through clauses in the contracts stating that the vendor will meet the same data protection requirements that apply to the covered entity. Care must be taken to determine if the vendor further out-sources any data handling functions to other vendors and monitor whether appropriate contracts and controls are in place.
o A contingency plan should be in place for responding to emergencies. Covered entities are responsible for backing up their data and having disaster recovery procedures in place. The plan should document data priority and failure analysis, testing activities, and change control procedures.
o Internal audits play a key role in HIPAA compliance by reviewing operations with the goal of identifying potential security violations. Policies and procedures should specifically document the scope, frequency, and procedures of audits. Audits should be both routine and event-based.
o Procedures should document instructions for addressing and responding to security breaches that are identified either during the audit or the normal course of operations.
* Physical Safeguards – controlling physical access to protect against inappropriate access to protected data
o Controls must govern the introduction and removal of hardware and software from the network. (When equipment is retired it must be disposed of properly to ensure that PHI is not compromised.)
o Access to equipment containing health information should be carefully controlled and monitored.
o Access to hardware and software must be limited to properly authorized individuals.
o Required access controls consist of facility security plans, maintenance records, and visitor sign-in and escorts.
o Policies are required to address proper workstation use. Workstations should be removed from high traffic areas and monitor screens should not be in direct view of the public.
o If the covered entities utilize contractors or agents, they too must be fully trained on their physical access responsibilities.
* Technical Safeguards – controlling access to computer systems and enabling covered entities to protect communications containing PHI transmitted electronically over open networks from being intercepted by anyone other than the intended recipient.
o Information systems housing PHI must be protected from intrusion. When information flows over open networks, some form of encryption must be utilized. If closed systems/networks are utilized, existing access controls are considered sufficient and encryption is optional.
o Each covered entity is responsible for ensuring that the data within its systems has not been changed or erased in an unauthorized manner.
o Data corroboration, including the use of check sum, double-keying, message authentication, and digital signature may be used to ensure data integrity.
o Covered entities must also authenticate entities it communicates with. Authentication consists of corroborating that an entity is who it claims to be. Examples of corroboration include: password systems, two or three-way handshakes, telephone callback, and token systems.
o Covered entities must make documentation of their HIPAA practices available to the government to determine compliance.
o In addition to policies and procedures and access records, information technology documentation should also include a written record of all configuration settings on the components of the network because these components are complex, configurable, and always changing.
o Documented risk analysis and risk management programs are required. Covered entities must carefully consider the risks of their operations as they implement systems to comply with the act. (The requirement of risk analysis and risk management implies that the act’s security requirements are a minimum standard and places responsibility on covered entities to take all reasonable precautions necessary to prevent PHI from being used for non-health purposes.)
Unique Identifiers Rule (National Provider Identifier)
HIPAA covered entities such as providers completing electronic transactions, healthcare clearinghouses, and large health plans, must use only the National Provider Identifier (NPI) to identify covered healthcare providers in standard transactions by May 23, 2007. Small health plans must use only the NPI by May 23, 2008.
Effective from May 2006 (May 2007 for small health plans), all covered entities using electronic communications (e.g., physicians, hospitals, health insurance companies, and so forth) must use a single new NPI. The NPI replaces all other identifiers used by health plans, Medicare (i.e., the UPIN), Medicaid, and other government programs. However, the NPI does not replace a provider's DEA number, state license number, or tax identification number. The NPI is 10 digits (may be alphanumeric), with the last digit being a checksum. The NPI cannot contain any embedded intelligence; in other words, the NPI is simply a number that does not itself have any additional meaning. The NPI is unique and national, never re-used, and except for institutions, a provider usually can have only one. An institution may obtain multiple NPIs for different "subparts" such as a free-standing cancer center or rehab facility.
Enforcement Rule
On February 16, 2006, HHS issued the Final Rule regarding HIPAA enforcement. It became effective on March 16, 2006. The Enforcement Rule sets civil money penalties for violating HIPAA rules and establishes procedures for investigations and hearings for HIPAA violations; however, its deterrent effects seem to be negligible with few prosecutions for violations.
HITECH Act security-breach notification requirements
The Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (HITECH Act), enacted as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, imposes notification requirements on covered entities, business associates, vendors of personal health records (PHR) and related entities in the event of certain security breaches relating to protected health information (PHI). The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued guidance on the subject; HHS and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) are working to harmonize their respective regulations and are seeking public comment with a view to issuing interim final regulations by August 17, 2009, the deadline imposed by the HITECH Act.
Effects on research and clinical care
The enactment of the Privacy and Security Rules has caused major changes in the way physicians and medical centers operate. The complex legalities and potentially stiff penalties associated with HIPAA, as well as the increase in paperwork and the cost of its implementation, were causes for concern among physicians and medical centers. An August 2006 article in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine detailed some such concerns over the implementation and effects of HIPAA.
Effects on research
HIPAA restrictions on researchers have affected their ability to perform retrospective, chart-based research as well as their ability to prospectively evaluate patients by contacting them for follow-up. A study from the University of Michigan demonstrated that implementation of the HIPAA Privacy rule resulted in a drop from 96% to 34% in the proportion of follow-up surveys completed by study patients being followed after a heart attack. Another study, detailing the effects of HIPAA on recruitment for a study on cancer prevention, demonstrated that HIPAA-mandated changes led to a 73% decrease in patient accrual, a tripling of time spent recruiting patients, and a tripling of mean recruitment costs.In addition, informed consent forms for research studies now are required to include extensive detail on how the participant's protected health information will be kept private. While such information is important, the addition of a lengthy, legalistic section on privacy may make these already complex documents even less user-friendly for patients who are asked to read and sign them.
These data suggest that the HIPAA privacy rule, as currently implemented, may be having negative impacts on the cost and quality of medical research. Dr. Kim Eagle, professor of internal medicine at the University of Michigan, was quoted in the Annals article as saying, "Privacy is important, but research is also important for improving care. We hope that we will figure this out and do it right."
Effects on clinical care
The complexity of HIPAA, combined with potentially stiff penalties for violators, can lead physicians and medical centers to withhold information from those who may have a right to it. A review of the implementation of the HIPAA Privacy Rule by the U.S. Government Accountability Office found that health care providers were "uncertain about their [legal] privacy responsibilities and often responded with an overly guarded approach to disclosing information...than necessary to ensure compliance with the Privacy rule". Reports of this uncertainty continue. Costs of implementation
In the period immediately prior to the enactment of the HIPAA Privacy and Security Acts, medical centers and medical practices were charged with getting "into compliance". With an early emphasis on the potentially severe penalties associated with violation, many practices and centers turned to private, for-profit "HIPAA consultants" who were intimately familiar with the details of the legislation and offered their services to ensure that physicians and medical centers were fully "in compliance". In addition to the costs of developing and revamping systems and practices, the increase in paperwork and staff time necessary to meet the legal requirements of HIPAA may impact the finances of medical centers and practices at a time when insurance company and Medicare reimbursement is also declining.
HIPAA and drug and alcohol rehabilitation organizations
Special considerations for confidentiality are needed for health care organizations that offer federally-funded drug or alcohol rehabilitation services.
Predating HIPAA by over a quarter century are the Comprehensive Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Prevention, Treatment and Rehabilitation Act of 1970 and language amended by the Drug Abuse Office and Treatment Act of 1972.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Medical Transcription and India: The Current Scenario and the Future
Medical transcription is an interesting, challenging and paying career and one of the fastest growing fields in healthcare. Medical records dictated by doctors (or their secretaries/nurses) into a tape or onto a digital voice processing system are accurately and swiftly transcribed i.e. converted into a word document, by the MT or MLS (medical language specialist). These records could be clinic notes, office notes, operative or consultation notes, discharge summaries, etc. The document is proofread to at least 98% accuracy before being “uploaded” back to the doctor’s office or clinic.
In the US, the entire healthcare industry is based on insurance. Therefore, detailed medical records are needed for processing insurance claims. As a result, MTs are in high demand there, and the cost of getting the job done is also very high. India is a very good locale for outsourcing this work due to a number of factors. We have a huge mass of English-speaking and computer-literate people in this country. Moreover, the difference in time zones between the US and India, makes it quite easy to return documents within the usual stipulated time frame of 24 hours.
A transcription service could range from a small home-based business to sophisticated, high-tech corporations, which employ large numbers of transcriptionists, proofers, quality analysts etc. Athough the clientele is mostly in the US, British and even Australian doctors are beginning to consider India as a possible source of getting this work done – done quickly and well, at a fraction of the cost incurred in their own countries!!
India witnessed an “MT boom” a few years ago, with innumerable training institutes mushrooming all over the place. Lack of proper training and understanding of this new concept led to an almost total closure of these institutes. Those that have remained in the field are today flourishing business enterprises, offering this new job opportunity to thousands.
To be a good MT one needs good listening and language skills and knowledge of medical terms (also called Language of Medicine or LOM). Fluency in English with understanding of the American way of speech and accent is a must. A thorough knowledge of the AAMT (American Association for Medical Transcription) rules is also needed. A full-fledged training course would impart all this. Throughout his/her career an MT needs to keep up with changes in medical terminology, medical procedures etc. and have the ability to detect medical inconsistencies in dictation and fix poor grammar and syntax. One also needs patience, as the work tends to get monotonous and repetitive. Regular continuing education programs, which are comprehensive, are therefore essential to be successful in this field.
In the metros and major cities of India, many big business names have ventured into this field and are flourishing. Most of these companies have in-house training programs so that the trainees are assured of a job at the end of their course. As a rule, a fresh MT starts with a salary of Rs. 5000 per month. Incentives are based on the amount of work done (called “line-count”) and the accuracy maintained. A really conscientious and skilled MT would earn a pretty decent salary. As the work can be done at home, it provides a wonderful opportunity for young, educated mothers who would otherwise have to put their careers on hold while their children grow up. Retired persons, the disabled, or those who simply do not wish to venture out of their homes for earning could all thrive in this career.
In short, the future looks bright for those in the field of Medical Transcription.
In the US, the entire healthcare industry is based on insurance. Therefore, detailed medical records are needed for processing insurance claims. As a result, MTs are in high demand there, and the cost of getting the job done is also very high. India is a very good locale for outsourcing this work due to a number of factors. We have a huge mass of English-speaking and computer-literate people in this country. Moreover, the difference in time zones between the US and India, makes it quite easy to return documents within the usual stipulated time frame of 24 hours.
A transcription service could range from a small home-based business to sophisticated, high-tech corporations, which employ large numbers of transcriptionists, proofers, quality analysts etc. Athough the clientele is mostly in the US, British and even Australian doctors are beginning to consider India as a possible source of getting this work done – done quickly and well, at a fraction of the cost incurred in their own countries!!
India witnessed an “MT boom” a few years ago, with innumerable training institutes mushrooming all over the place. Lack of proper training and understanding of this new concept led to an almost total closure of these institutes. Those that have remained in the field are today flourishing business enterprises, offering this new job opportunity to thousands.
To be a good MT one needs good listening and language skills and knowledge of medical terms (also called Language of Medicine or LOM). Fluency in English with understanding of the American way of speech and accent is a must. A thorough knowledge of the AAMT (American Association for Medical Transcription) rules is also needed. A full-fledged training course would impart all this. Throughout his/her career an MT needs to keep up with changes in medical terminology, medical procedures etc. and have the ability to detect medical inconsistencies in dictation and fix poor grammar and syntax. One also needs patience, as the work tends to get monotonous and repetitive. Regular continuing education programs, which are comprehensive, are therefore essential to be successful in this field.
In the metros and major cities of India, many big business names have ventured into this field and are flourishing. Most of these companies have in-house training programs so that the trainees are assured of a job at the end of their course. As a rule, a fresh MT starts with a salary of Rs. 5000 per month. Incentives are based on the amount of work done (called “line-count”) and the accuracy maintained. A really conscientious and skilled MT would earn a pretty decent salary. As the work can be done at home, it provides a wonderful opportunity for young, educated mothers who would otherwise have to put their careers on hold while their children grow up. Retired persons, the disabled, or those who simply do not wish to venture out of their homes for earning could all thrive in this career.
In short, the future looks bright for those in the field of Medical Transcription.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Pros and Cons of the Healthcare Reform Proposal(s)
Pros:
* Everybody can have health insurance if they want it.
o Insurers will not be able to stop paying for people who are sick, even if they lose their jobs.
o People who cannot afford health insurance won’t have to pay as much money.
o People who are already sick will be eligible for healthcare.
* In the long run it will (hopefully) reduce medical costs significantly. Rising medical costs are the main reason the long-term budget projections are so alarming. Something has to be done. Unfortunately, this bill might not do enough. While there will definitely be some savings, it’s not clear that they will be as transformative as hoped.
* Health insurers can no longer cap coverage. In other words, they will no longer say that they have spent enough on you and you’re on your own for the next hundred thousand dollars. This should reduce medical bankruptcy.
* There will be increased competition in the insurance market. It might be from a public option. It might also be from some kind of non-profit, state-specific co-operative. This might push the healthcare companies to lower costs and provide better service.
Cons:
* For the first ten years, it will cost about $100 billion a year. This is about the yearly cost of the Iraq War.
* The bill might increase the cost of health insurance. This depends on whether the gains from increased efficiencies and increased competition is outweighed by the cost of providing additional benefits.
* The Individual Mandate. You will have to either buy health insurance if you don’t have it or have a 2% tax increase. This insurance will be subsidized—but there is no guarantee that the subsidy will suffice for your specific situation.
* There will be a tax increase on very high income people. If you are making more than half a million (or maybe a full million) you will have about a 1% tax increase.
Other stuff that might be good or bad, depending how you see it
* Increased government involvement in healthcare. Government already pays for huge amounts of healthcare—so this won’t be anything new.
* Additional regulation on insurance companies. This might increase costs. It will increase quality.
* Physicians will have increased access to information about what treatments are most effective for their cost. If two treatments work equally well and one is cheaper, doctors can recommend that one. This was almost universally considered a good thing until a few years ago, but some people have started criticizing it lately.
* Large employers may also have to offer health insurance to more of their employees. If they do not, they may have to pay some extra tax.
Things that aren’t true:
* Death Panels
* Nazis
* Inability to choose your doctor
* Healthcare will be “rationed.” My conservative buddies will claim that this will “inevitably lead” to rationing. I disagree. I do think we can agree that there is nothing in the healthcare bill that will reduce the amount of healthcare available. The topic of what counts as “rationing” healthcare (and whether we already do it) is complex and contentious—but the healthcare bill will not directly cause additional rationing.
* Bureaucrats will tell doctors how to do their jobs (in ways that they don’t already do).
* Everybody can have health insurance if they want it.
o Insurers will not be able to stop paying for people who are sick, even if they lose their jobs.
o People who cannot afford health insurance won’t have to pay as much money.
o People who are already sick will be eligible for healthcare.
* In the long run it will (hopefully) reduce medical costs significantly. Rising medical costs are the main reason the long-term budget projections are so alarming. Something has to be done. Unfortunately, this bill might not do enough. While there will definitely be some savings, it’s not clear that they will be as transformative as hoped.
* Health insurers can no longer cap coverage. In other words, they will no longer say that they have spent enough on you and you’re on your own for the next hundred thousand dollars. This should reduce medical bankruptcy.
* There will be increased competition in the insurance market. It might be from a public option. It might also be from some kind of non-profit, state-specific co-operative. This might push the healthcare companies to lower costs and provide better service.
Cons:
* For the first ten years, it will cost about $100 billion a year. This is about the yearly cost of the Iraq War.
* The bill might increase the cost of health insurance. This depends on whether the gains from increased efficiencies and increased competition is outweighed by the cost of providing additional benefits.
* The Individual Mandate. You will have to either buy health insurance if you don’t have it or have a 2% tax increase. This insurance will be subsidized—but there is no guarantee that the subsidy will suffice for your specific situation.
* There will be a tax increase on very high income people. If you are making more than half a million (or maybe a full million) you will have about a 1% tax increase.
Other stuff that might be good or bad, depending how you see it
* Increased government involvement in healthcare. Government already pays for huge amounts of healthcare—so this won’t be anything new.
* Additional regulation on insurance companies. This might increase costs. It will increase quality.
* Physicians will have increased access to information about what treatments are most effective for their cost. If two treatments work equally well and one is cheaper, doctors can recommend that one. This was almost universally considered a good thing until a few years ago, but some people have started criticizing it lately.
* Large employers may also have to offer health insurance to more of their employees. If they do not, they may have to pay some extra tax.
Things that aren’t true:
* Death Panels
* Nazis
* Inability to choose your doctor
* Healthcare will be “rationed.” My conservative buddies will claim that this will “inevitably lead” to rationing. I disagree. I do think we can agree that there is nothing in the healthcare bill that will reduce the amount of healthcare available. The topic of what counts as “rationing” healthcare (and whether we already do it) is complex and contentious—but the healthcare bill will not directly cause additional rationing.
* Bureaucrats will tell doctors how to do their jobs (in ways that they don’t already do).
Saturday, August 15, 2009
How to Avoid the Swine Flu Naturally
#
Step 1
Step 1: Take Elderberry: Compounds in elderberry bind with viruses before they can penetrate the walls of cells. This inhibits their ability to spread. Elderberry is nontoxic when cooked, even for children. It is available syrup, tincture or capsules in any health food store. Look here for more in depth information on Elderberry visit: http://stason.org/articles/wellbeing/health/How-To-Prevent-Colds-Flu-with-Elderberry.html
#
Step 2
Step 2: Take a homeopathic flu remedy: Homeopathy has an excellent record for preventing flu. Since this current swine-avian-human virus that is going around has the same symptoms as other types of flu, you will be able to use the same remedy as you would a normal flu with great success. This is because homeopathy works on the "Law of Similars". This means you look at the set of symptoms someone has to determine what remedy to take. Since this flu has the same symptoms as other flu's, the same remedies will be effective.
Oscillococcinum is one remedy that has been used with great success for prevention and treatment of the flu. The recommended dosage is to take it once a week for prevention. It has also shown to be helpful to take a dose at the first signs of the flu. Simply follow the directions on the container.
Influenzinum is a remedy that homeopathic manufacturers create every year for that years expected virus. Since the symptoms are the same for this swine-avian-human virus as the regular flu, this remedy should also be effective for this. The suggested dosage for this remedy is once a month.
These remedies are available in some pharmacies as well as health food stores.
#
Step 3
Nutrition: Too much sugar (and white flour) in the diet, is the biggest nutritional mistake people make. I include white flour because of its ability to change to glucose (sugar) rapidly. 1 tsp of sugar will depress the natural killer cell activity of the white blood cells by 50% for 2 days. (“Lick the Sugar Habit” by Nancy Appleton). There are also other immune factors that sugar inhibits so this is VERY IMPORTANT!
It is important to read labels on all your food. You MUST read the fine print to look for added sugar. Many foods and drinks have naturally occurring sugar that is included in the Nutrition Facts box on labels. This sugar is not harmful.
If a product has high fructose corn syrup, it is especially bad for your immune system.
Limiting sugar intake can be difficult for some people. The Standard American Diet (SAD) is very high in sugar. This means that having a lot of sugar seems normal to most people. You may not even realize how much sugar you are eating. I would suggest keeping a diary for one day to see what you are really eating.
Many health care professionals feel this is a contributing factor to chronic diseases as well as acute illnesses such as the flu. It is OK to have a little sugar in the diet but if you are ill, or going somewhere you are likely to be in contact with people that are ill, it is best to eat a healthy diet.
A simple healthy diet is one with lots of vegetables, whole fruits, whole grains, a protein with every meal, and only a few boxed, processed foods.
#
Step 4
Soap and water: Friction is the most important part of good hand washing. This makes soap and water a much better choice then antibacterial cleansers or towels. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds getting in between the fingers and fingernails with regular soap and water.
Try to keep your hands away from your face during a day of handling money or shaking hands with people. You can pick up a virus from many surfaces but you will only get the virus if it gets into your system by breathing it in or directly through your nose, mouth, or eyes.
If you are in an area where people are wearing a mask for prevention, it must fit tightly over the noise and mouth. You will see some people wearing a mask under the nose. This will offer no protection from airborne viruses.
#
Step 1
Step 1: Take Elderberry: Compounds in elderberry bind with viruses before they can penetrate the walls of cells. This inhibits their ability to spread. Elderberry is nontoxic when cooked, even for children. It is available syrup, tincture or capsules in any health food store. Look here for more in depth information on Elderberry visit: http://stason.org/articles/wellbeing/health/How-To-Prevent-Colds-Flu-with-Elderberry.html
#
Step 2
Step 2: Take a homeopathic flu remedy: Homeopathy has an excellent record for preventing flu. Since this current swine-avian-human virus that is going around has the same symptoms as other types of flu, you will be able to use the same remedy as you would a normal flu with great success. This is because homeopathy works on the "Law of Similars". This means you look at the set of symptoms someone has to determine what remedy to take. Since this flu has the same symptoms as other flu's, the same remedies will be effective.
Oscillococcinum is one remedy that has been used with great success for prevention and treatment of the flu. The recommended dosage is to take it once a week for prevention. It has also shown to be helpful to take a dose at the first signs of the flu. Simply follow the directions on the container.
Influenzinum is a remedy that homeopathic manufacturers create every year for that years expected virus. Since the symptoms are the same for this swine-avian-human virus as the regular flu, this remedy should also be effective for this. The suggested dosage for this remedy is once a month.
These remedies are available in some pharmacies as well as health food stores.
#
Step 3
Nutrition: Too much sugar (and white flour) in the diet, is the biggest nutritional mistake people make. I include white flour because of its ability to change to glucose (sugar) rapidly. 1 tsp of sugar will depress the natural killer cell activity of the white blood cells by 50% for 2 days. (“Lick the Sugar Habit” by Nancy Appleton). There are also other immune factors that sugar inhibits so this is VERY IMPORTANT!
It is important to read labels on all your food. You MUST read the fine print to look for added sugar. Many foods and drinks have naturally occurring sugar that is included in the Nutrition Facts box on labels. This sugar is not harmful.
If a product has high fructose corn syrup, it is especially bad for your immune system.
Limiting sugar intake can be difficult for some people. The Standard American Diet (SAD) is very high in sugar. This means that having a lot of sugar seems normal to most people. You may not even realize how much sugar you are eating. I would suggest keeping a diary for one day to see what you are really eating.
Many health care professionals feel this is a contributing factor to chronic diseases as well as acute illnesses such as the flu. It is OK to have a little sugar in the diet but if you are ill, or going somewhere you are likely to be in contact with people that are ill, it is best to eat a healthy diet.
A simple healthy diet is one with lots of vegetables, whole fruits, whole grains, a protein with every meal, and only a few boxed, processed foods.
#
Step 4
Soap and water: Friction is the most important part of good hand washing. This makes soap and water a much better choice then antibacterial cleansers or towels. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds getting in between the fingers and fingernails with regular soap and water.
Try to keep your hands away from your face during a day of handling money or shaking hands with people. You can pick up a virus from many surfaces but you will only get the virus if it gets into your system by breathing it in or directly through your nose, mouth, or eyes.
If you are in an area where people are wearing a mask for prevention, it must fit tightly over the noise and mouth. You will see some people wearing a mask under the nose. This will offer no protection from airborne viruses.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Swine Flu & Homeopathy
Swine Flu / Swine Influenza
What is Swine Flu / H1N1 Influenza?
Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza virus that regularly causes outbreaks of influenza in pigs. Swine flu viruses cause high levels of illness and low death rates in pigs. Swine influenza viruses may circulate among swine throughout the year, but most outbreaks occur during the late fall and winter months similar to outbreaks in humans.
The 2009 flu outbreak in humans is due to a new strain of influenza A virus subtype H1N1 that derives in part from human influenza, avian influenza, and two separate strains of swine influenza. The origins of this new strain are unknown. It passes with apparent ease from human to human, an ability attributed to an as-yet unidentified mutation. The strain in most cases causes only mild symptoms and the infected person makes a full recovery without requiring medical attention and without the use of antiviral medicines.
Why is there so much panic about Swine Flu? After all it's just a flu!
The most significant flu pandemic occurred in 1918/1919. The global mortality rate from the 1918/1919 pandemic is not known, but is estimated at 2.5 to 5% of those who were infected died. With 20% or more of the world population suffering from the disease to some extent, a case-fatality ratio this high would mean that about 0.5-1% or 50 million to 100 million people worldwide were killed. In 1957, an Asian flu pandemic infected some 45 million Americans and killed 70,000. Eleven years later, lasting from 1968 to 1969, the Hong Kong flu pandemic afflicted 50 million Americans and caused 33,000 deaths, costing approximately $3.9 billion. In 1976, about 500 soldiers became infected with swine flu over a period of a few weeks.
The scare and panic about the bird flu and swine flu have occurred because people now know what a simple flu can lead to and are afraid of the consequences - not just to the human capital but also to the global financial health.
Swine Flu / H1N1 Influenza Symptoms
The symptoms of swine flu in people are expected to be similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal influenza and include fever, lethargy, lack of appetite and coughing. Some people with swine flu also have reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Symptoms of Swine flu may include all or some of the following:
* Fever
* Muscle aches
* Lethargy
* Coughing
* Headache
* Sore throat
* Runny nose
* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Diarrhea
* Lack of appetite
Complications Of Swine Influenza
Those at higher risk of catching influenza in general include those with the following:
* Age of 65 years or older
* Chronic health problems (such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease)
* Pregnant women
* Young children
But the past epidemics and pandemics of flu have shown that during pandemics most people who succumb are healthy young adults.
Complications of Swine Flu can include:
* Pneumonia
* Bronchitis
* Sinus infections
* Ear infections
* Death
Transmission of Swine Flu (How does Swine Flu spread?)
As with other flu like illnesses, Swine influenza is spread as follows:
* Coughing
* Sneezing
* Kissing
* Touching infected objects
* Touching nose, mouth and/or eyes with infected hands
* Swine flu does not spread by eating pork.
Treatment of Swine Flu / H1N1 Influenza
Swine Flu Vaccination / Swine Flu Shot
The protective ability of influenza vaccines depends primarily on the closeness of the match between the vaccine virus and the epidemic virus, so the presence of non reactive H3N2 SIV variants suggests that current commercial vaccines might not effectively protect pigs from infection with a majority of H3N2 viruses. The current vaccine against the seasonal influenza strain H1N1 is thought unlikely to provide protection. The director of CDC's National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases said that the United States' cases were found to be made up of genetic elements from four different flu viruses—North American swine influenza, North American avian influenza, human influenza A virus subtype H1N1, and swine influenza virus typically found in Asia and Europe.
What You Can Do to Prevent H1N1 Influenza / Swine Flu?
There are everyday actions people can take to stay healthy.
* Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
* Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
* Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
* Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
* Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.
* If you get sick, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
Above all. Don't get stressed by the fear of getting the swine flu. Stress can undermine your immune system. The flu doesn't kill everyone and in most cases may prove benign. Mild exercise, meditation or yoga and healthy nutritious diet can help keep your immune system in good condition and able to ward of any infections. Not every 'infection' becomes a full blown 'disease'. Most infections are taken care of by your body even before you know that you were infected. Most infections affect gravely those people who are vitally deranged. So instead of panicking about the flu, stay calm and focus on becoming a healthy 'you'.
Natural Remedy
Homeopathy Remedies for Swine Flu / H1N1 Influenza
Why Homeopathy?
Homeopathy was very successful in dealing with the 1918-19 flu pandemic. Here is a quote from the famous historian Julian Winston:
Perhaps the most recent use of homeopathy in a major epidemic was during the Influenza Pandemic of 1918. The Journal of the American Institute for Homeopathy, May, 1921, had a long article about the use of homeopathy in the flu epidemic. Dr. T A McCann, from Dayton, Ohio, reported that 24,000 cases of flu treated allopathically had a mortality rate of 28.2% while 26,000 cases of flu treated homeopathically had a mortality rate of 1.05%. This last figure was supported by Dean W.A. Pearson of Philadelphia (Hahnemann College) who collected 26,795 cases of flu treated with homeopathy with the above result.
The most common remedy used was Gelsemium, with occasional cases needing Bryonia and Eupatorium reported. Dr. Herbert A. Roberts from Derby, CT, said that 30 physicians in Connecticut responded to his request for data. They reported 6,602 cases with 55 deaths, which is less than 1%. Dr. Roberts was working as a physician on a troop ship during WWI. He had 81 cases of flu on the way over to Europe. He reported, "All recovered and were landed. Every man received homeopathic treatment. One ship lost 31 on the way."
http://www.hpathy.com/papersnew/winston-homeopathy-epidemics.asp
Homeopathic Remedies
Considering that the Swine Flu virus produces symptoms similar to the human influenza virus, the following homeopathy medicines may prove useful in cases of swine influenza:
#Gelsemium. [Gels]
This remedy corresponds to the commencement of the trouble, when the patient is weak, tired and aches throughout the body. It removes speedily the intense aching and muscular soreness. There is constant chilliness and the patient hugs the fire; the fever is less acute than that of Aconite, and the cough is hard and painful. There are paroxysms of sneezing with excoriating discharge, and great torpor and apathy. Extensive experience with this remedy in the great Epidemic of 1918 proved its usefulness. Simple cases were speedily cured. Aconite will sometimes prove the better remedy for children, but the drug will never be a prominent one in influenza. Still it may be prescribed when indicated; it will, perhaps, soothe and moderate the subsequent attack, but its action is not quick here as in simple fevers, as we have to deal with a blood affection.
#Baptisia.
Influenza with marked gastro-intestinal symptoms may need this remedy, especially when there are putrid diarrhoea stools. Clarke considers this remedy the nearest specific for the disease; he prefers the 30th potency. Hughes also praises it, but uses it in the 1x and 2x dilutions, which seem to have more extensive testimony as to their efficacy.
#Eupatorium perfoliatum.
This remedy has much soreness and aching of the entire body; hoarseness and cough, with great soreness of the larynx and upper respiratory tract. Coryza with thirst. Drinking causes vomiting. The cough is a very shattering one, hurts the head and chest, and as in Drosera, the patient holds the chest with the hands. The breakbone pains are characteristic of the remedy. Add to these symptoms acute bilious derangements, and it is all the more indicated. Many physicians rely on this remedy in influenza / flu almost exclusively in the early stages.
#Sabadilla. [Sabad]
Sneezing is the great keynote of this remedy. Sneezing and lachrymation on going into the open air. The throat is swollen and the pain is worse on empty swallowing; the sneezing is excessive, shaking the whole body. Shudderings, with gooseflesh chills creeping upwards, are also prominent symptoms. Frontal headache, dryness of mouth, without thirst and cough, worse on lying down, are additional symptoms. It suits well many cases of the catarrhal form of flu; other remedies having sneezing are Cyclamen and Euphorbia.
#Arsenicum. [Ars]
This remedy covers more phases of flu than perhaps any other remedy. Hughes believes that it will cut short an attack, especially when there is a copious flow, prostration and paroxysmal coryza. Its periodicity makes it suitable to epidemics, and it suits the early symptoms when the affection is in the upper portion of the respiratory tract. The burning dryness and copious watery excoriating secretion and the involvement of the conjunctiva are unmistakable indications. Langour and prostration are prominent symptoms.
#Arsenicum iodide.
Chills, flushes of heat and severe fluent coryza, discharge irritating and corrosive, sneezing and prostration. It corresponds to true influenza and is highly recommended by Hale. Sanguinaria nitrate is especially valuable when the trachea and larynx are affected. Phytolacca is specific when the throat is inflamed and spotty, with great hardness and tenderness of the glands.
#Dulcamara. [Dulc]
This is one of our best remedies in the acute form; the eyes are suffused, the throat is sore and the cough hurts because of the muscular soreness. If brought on by damp, cold changes in the weather, so much the surer is Dulcamara indicated.
#Bryonia.
The trouble here is largely bronchial and going downward. When a person is very grumpy and feels miserable with the flu, wanting only to lie still and be left alone, this remedy is likely to be useful. Headache, muscle aches, and cough or stomach pain may be the major symptoms. Everything feels worse from even the slightest motion. The person’s mouth usually is dry, with a thirst for large cold drinks.
#Phosphorus may be indicated, especially when the trouble moves towards the chest. It is a very useful remedy for the debility following la grippe, as it is usually of the pure nervous type. It is the great post-influenza "tonic."
#Rhus toxicodendron. [Rhus-t]
Influenza, with severe aching in all the bones, sneezing and coughing. The cough is worse evenings and is caused by a tickling behind the upper part of the sternum. Especially is it useful in cases brought on by exposure to dampness. There is much prostration and depression, and the patient may have some symptoms which are suspicious as pointing towards typhoid fever, such as burning tongue, stupor and delirium. Aching pains and nightly restlessness are keynotes symptoms. Causticum, like both Rhus and Eupatorium, has a tired, sore, bruised sensation all over the body and soreness in the chest when coughing, but it has in addition involuntary urination when coughing.
#Allium cepa. [All-c]
Profuse catarrhal coryza; the nose runs freely, there is sneezing, irritability cough, the face is swollen and looks inflamed. Camphora. This remedy is often sufficient at the outset to cut short an attack, or at least modify the severity.
#Sticta. [Stict]
Nasal catarrh; headache, thirst, nightly expectoration, great watering of eyes, running at nose, hoarseness of voice, frontal headache and depression of whole system. Tuberculous subjects attacked by influenza. "There is no better remedy," says Dr. Fornias,"for the incessant wearing, racking cough of this class of patients." Tuberculinum is an excellent prevention of recurring attacks of influenza / flu in those who have annual attacks.
#Ipecac
Adapted to cases where the gastric symptoms predominate; tongue clean or slightly coated. Nausea: with profuse saliva; vomiting of white, glairy mucus in large quantities, without relief; sleepy afterwards; worse from stooping. Low thirst. Cough: dry spasmodic, constricted, asthmatic. Difficult breathing from least exercise; violent dyspnoea, with wheezing and anxiety about the stomach. Cough, with rattling of mucus in bronchi when inspiring; threatened suffocation from mucus. Pains as if bones were all torn to pieces.
#Veratrum album
Adapted to diseases with rapid sinking of the vital forces; complete prostration; collapse. Cold perspiration on the forehead (over entire body, Tab. ) with nearly all complaints. Thirst: intense, unquenchable, for large quantities of very cold water and acid drinks; wants everything cold. Diarrhoea: frequent, greenish, watery, gushing: mixed with flakes: cutting colic, with cramps commencing in hands and feet and spreading all over; prostrating, after fright; < least movement; with vomiting, cold sweat on forehead during and prostration after. Vomiting: excessive with nausea and great prostration: < by drinking ( Ars. ); by least motion ( Tab. ); great weakness after.
The Current Swine Flu Epidemic or Possible Influenza Pandemic
It has been reported that in the current Swine influenza epidemic, the gastrointestinal symptoms (Nausea, Vomiting) are pronounced. Considering this remedies like Baptisia, Arsenic-album or Ipecac may work as Genus epidemicus or as prophylactic treatment for the current Swine influenza epidemic.
How to differentiate in these flu medicines?
If the patient has mild flu like symptoms (runny nose and watery eyes etc) but no other peculiar symptom but is anxious if it might be swine flu - think about Aconite.
If the flu patient is listless, prostrated, indifferent, has offensive diarrhoea and the parts rested upon feel sore and bruised - think about Baptisia.
If the flu patient is restless, anxious or fearful, thirsty but drinks small quantities and often, prostrated, diarrhoea after eating or drinking and nausea on seeing/smelling food, burning pains - think about Arsenicum-album.
If the nausea is more pronounced, the patient is thirstless and has pain felt in bones - think about Ipecac. Also Ipecac should be thought of if a flu patient is developing or has developed broncho-pneumonia.
If the gastrointestinal symptoms are not marked but the patient has deep pains as if bones are aching - think about Eupatorium perf.
If the flu patient is feeling dull, dizzy, drowsy, has low thirst, feels chilly, esp in back - think about Gelsemium.
Lessons from the 1918/1919 Flu Pandemic
Many people believe that the current virus strain closely matches the 1918/1919 flu pandemic, although it is not exactly like it.
In the 1918/1919 flu pandemic, people without symptoms could be stricken suddenly and within hours be too weak to walk; many died the next day. Symptoms included a blue tint to the face and coughing up blood caused by severe obstruction of the lungs. In some cases, the virus caused an uncontrollable hemorrhaging that filled the lungs, and patients drowned in their body fluids (pneumonia). In others, the flu caused frequent loss of bowel control and the victim would die from losing critical intestinal lining and from blood loss.
If such symptoms present themselves in the current pandemic, the remedies that may prove useful would be Arsenic-album, Cantharis, Phosphorus, Cuprum-met, Camphora, Veratrum-album, Ipecac or Carbo-veg.
Ars-alb, Phosphorus, Ipecac and Carbo-veg seem to have a more pronounced action on lungs/respiratory symptoms in the above mentioned symptom group. Cantharis, Phosphorus, and Carbo-veg seem to cover the bloody stools better. Camphor and Verat-alb cover the acute collapse with bluish discoloration better.
Note
Homeopathic remedies need strict individualization and are given as specifically prepared, non-toxic, micro-dose homeopathic potencies. Please consult a qualified homeopath before taking any homeopathic remedy for Swine flu / influenza
Reference for Swine Flu Information
1. Center for Disease Control (CDC), USA
What is Swine Flu / H1N1 Influenza?
Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza virus that regularly causes outbreaks of influenza in pigs. Swine flu viruses cause high levels of illness and low death rates in pigs. Swine influenza viruses may circulate among swine throughout the year, but most outbreaks occur during the late fall and winter months similar to outbreaks in humans.
The 2009 flu outbreak in humans is due to a new strain of influenza A virus subtype H1N1 that derives in part from human influenza, avian influenza, and two separate strains of swine influenza. The origins of this new strain are unknown. It passes with apparent ease from human to human, an ability attributed to an as-yet unidentified mutation. The strain in most cases causes only mild symptoms and the infected person makes a full recovery without requiring medical attention and without the use of antiviral medicines.
Why is there so much panic about Swine Flu? After all it's just a flu!
The most significant flu pandemic occurred in 1918/1919. The global mortality rate from the 1918/1919 pandemic is not known, but is estimated at 2.5 to 5% of those who were infected died. With 20% or more of the world population suffering from the disease to some extent, a case-fatality ratio this high would mean that about 0.5-1% or 50 million to 100 million people worldwide were killed. In 1957, an Asian flu pandemic infected some 45 million Americans and killed 70,000. Eleven years later, lasting from 1968 to 1969, the Hong Kong flu pandemic afflicted 50 million Americans and caused 33,000 deaths, costing approximately $3.9 billion. In 1976, about 500 soldiers became infected with swine flu over a period of a few weeks.
The scare and panic about the bird flu and swine flu have occurred because people now know what a simple flu can lead to and are afraid of the consequences - not just to the human capital but also to the global financial health.
Swine Flu / H1N1 Influenza Symptoms
The symptoms of swine flu in people are expected to be similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal influenza and include fever, lethargy, lack of appetite and coughing. Some people with swine flu also have reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Symptoms of Swine flu may include all or some of the following:
* Fever
* Muscle aches
* Lethargy
* Coughing
* Headache
* Sore throat
* Runny nose
* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Diarrhea
* Lack of appetite
Complications Of Swine Influenza
Those at higher risk of catching influenza in general include those with the following:
* Age of 65 years or older
* Chronic health problems (such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease)
* Pregnant women
* Young children
But the past epidemics and pandemics of flu have shown that during pandemics most people who succumb are healthy young adults.
Complications of Swine Flu can include:
* Pneumonia
* Bronchitis
* Sinus infections
* Ear infections
* Death
Transmission of Swine Flu (How does Swine Flu spread?)
As with other flu like illnesses, Swine influenza is spread as follows:
* Coughing
* Sneezing
* Kissing
* Touching infected objects
* Touching nose, mouth and/or eyes with infected hands
* Swine flu does not spread by eating pork.
Treatment of Swine Flu / H1N1 Influenza
Swine Flu Vaccination / Swine Flu Shot
The protective ability of influenza vaccines depends primarily on the closeness of the match between the vaccine virus and the epidemic virus, so the presence of non reactive H3N2 SIV variants suggests that current commercial vaccines might not effectively protect pigs from infection with a majority of H3N2 viruses. The current vaccine against the seasonal influenza strain H1N1 is thought unlikely to provide protection. The director of CDC's National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases said that the United States' cases were found to be made up of genetic elements from four different flu viruses—North American swine influenza, North American avian influenza, human influenza A virus subtype H1N1, and swine influenza virus typically found in Asia and Europe.
What You Can Do to Prevent H1N1 Influenza / Swine Flu?
There are everyday actions people can take to stay healthy.
* Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
* Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
* Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
* Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
* Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.
* If you get sick, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
Above all. Don't get stressed by the fear of getting the swine flu. Stress can undermine your immune system. The flu doesn't kill everyone and in most cases may prove benign. Mild exercise, meditation or yoga and healthy nutritious diet can help keep your immune system in good condition and able to ward of any infections. Not every 'infection' becomes a full blown 'disease'. Most infections are taken care of by your body even before you know that you were infected. Most infections affect gravely those people who are vitally deranged. So instead of panicking about the flu, stay calm and focus on becoming a healthy 'you'.
Natural Remedy
Homeopathy Remedies for Swine Flu / H1N1 Influenza
Why Homeopathy?
Homeopathy was very successful in dealing with the 1918-19 flu pandemic. Here is a quote from the famous historian Julian Winston:
Perhaps the most recent use of homeopathy in a major epidemic was during the Influenza Pandemic of 1918. The Journal of the American Institute for Homeopathy, May, 1921, had a long article about the use of homeopathy in the flu epidemic. Dr. T A McCann, from Dayton, Ohio, reported that 24,000 cases of flu treated allopathically had a mortality rate of 28.2% while 26,000 cases of flu treated homeopathically had a mortality rate of 1.05%. This last figure was supported by Dean W.A. Pearson of Philadelphia (Hahnemann College) who collected 26,795 cases of flu treated with homeopathy with the above result.
The most common remedy used was Gelsemium, with occasional cases needing Bryonia and Eupatorium reported. Dr. Herbert A. Roberts from Derby, CT, said that 30 physicians in Connecticut responded to his request for data. They reported 6,602 cases with 55 deaths, which is less than 1%. Dr. Roberts was working as a physician on a troop ship during WWI. He had 81 cases of flu on the way over to Europe. He reported, "All recovered and were landed. Every man received homeopathic treatment. One ship lost 31 on the way."
http://www.hpathy.com/papersnew/winston-homeopathy-epidemics.asp
Homeopathic Remedies
Considering that the Swine Flu virus produces symptoms similar to the human influenza virus, the following homeopathy medicines may prove useful in cases of swine influenza:
#Gelsemium. [Gels]
This remedy corresponds to the commencement of the trouble, when the patient is weak, tired and aches throughout the body. It removes speedily the intense aching and muscular soreness. There is constant chilliness and the patient hugs the fire; the fever is less acute than that of Aconite, and the cough is hard and painful. There are paroxysms of sneezing with excoriating discharge, and great torpor and apathy. Extensive experience with this remedy in the great Epidemic of 1918 proved its usefulness. Simple cases were speedily cured. Aconite will sometimes prove the better remedy for children, but the drug will never be a prominent one in influenza. Still it may be prescribed when indicated; it will, perhaps, soothe and moderate the subsequent attack, but its action is not quick here as in simple fevers, as we have to deal with a blood affection.
#Baptisia.
Influenza with marked gastro-intestinal symptoms may need this remedy, especially when there are putrid diarrhoea stools. Clarke considers this remedy the nearest specific for the disease; he prefers the 30th potency. Hughes also praises it, but uses it in the 1x and 2x dilutions, which seem to have more extensive testimony as to their efficacy.
#Eupatorium perfoliatum.
This remedy has much soreness and aching of the entire body; hoarseness and cough, with great soreness of the larynx and upper respiratory tract. Coryza with thirst. Drinking causes vomiting. The cough is a very shattering one, hurts the head and chest, and as in Drosera, the patient holds the chest with the hands. The breakbone pains are characteristic of the remedy. Add to these symptoms acute bilious derangements, and it is all the more indicated. Many physicians rely on this remedy in influenza / flu almost exclusively in the early stages.
#Sabadilla. [Sabad]
Sneezing is the great keynote of this remedy. Sneezing and lachrymation on going into the open air. The throat is swollen and the pain is worse on empty swallowing; the sneezing is excessive, shaking the whole body. Shudderings, with gooseflesh chills creeping upwards, are also prominent symptoms. Frontal headache, dryness of mouth, without thirst and cough, worse on lying down, are additional symptoms. It suits well many cases of the catarrhal form of flu; other remedies having sneezing are Cyclamen and Euphorbia.
#Arsenicum. [Ars]
This remedy covers more phases of flu than perhaps any other remedy. Hughes believes that it will cut short an attack, especially when there is a copious flow, prostration and paroxysmal coryza. Its periodicity makes it suitable to epidemics, and it suits the early symptoms when the affection is in the upper portion of the respiratory tract. The burning dryness and copious watery excoriating secretion and the involvement of the conjunctiva are unmistakable indications. Langour and prostration are prominent symptoms.
#Arsenicum iodide.
Chills, flushes of heat and severe fluent coryza, discharge irritating and corrosive, sneezing and prostration. It corresponds to true influenza and is highly recommended by Hale. Sanguinaria nitrate is especially valuable when the trachea and larynx are affected. Phytolacca is specific when the throat is inflamed and spotty, with great hardness and tenderness of the glands.
#Dulcamara. [Dulc]
This is one of our best remedies in the acute form; the eyes are suffused, the throat is sore and the cough hurts because of the muscular soreness. If brought on by damp, cold changes in the weather, so much the surer is Dulcamara indicated.
#Bryonia.
The trouble here is largely bronchial and going downward. When a person is very grumpy and feels miserable with the flu, wanting only to lie still and be left alone, this remedy is likely to be useful. Headache, muscle aches, and cough or stomach pain may be the major symptoms. Everything feels worse from even the slightest motion. The person’s mouth usually is dry, with a thirst for large cold drinks.
#Phosphorus may be indicated, especially when the trouble moves towards the chest. It is a very useful remedy for the debility following la grippe, as it is usually of the pure nervous type. It is the great post-influenza "tonic."
#Rhus toxicodendron. [Rhus-t]
Influenza, with severe aching in all the bones, sneezing and coughing. The cough is worse evenings and is caused by a tickling behind the upper part of the sternum. Especially is it useful in cases brought on by exposure to dampness. There is much prostration and depression, and the patient may have some symptoms which are suspicious as pointing towards typhoid fever, such as burning tongue, stupor and delirium. Aching pains and nightly restlessness are keynotes symptoms. Causticum, like both Rhus and Eupatorium, has a tired, sore, bruised sensation all over the body and soreness in the chest when coughing, but it has in addition involuntary urination when coughing.
#Allium cepa. [All-c]
Profuse catarrhal coryza; the nose runs freely, there is sneezing, irritability cough, the face is swollen and looks inflamed. Camphora. This remedy is often sufficient at the outset to cut short an attack, or at least modify the severity.
#Sticta. [Stict]
Nasal catarrh; headache, thirst, nightly expectoration, great watering of eyes, running at nose, hoarseness of voice, frontal headache and depression of whole system. Tuberculous subjects attacked by influenza. "There is no better remedy," says Dr. Fornias,"for the incessant wearing, racking cough of this class of patients." Tuberculinum is an excellent prevention of recurring attacks of influenza / flu in those who have annual attacks.
#Ipecac
Adapted to cases where the gastric symptoms predominate; tongue clean or slightly coated. Nausea: with profuse saliva; vomiting of white, glairy mucus in large quantities, without relief; sleepy afterwards; worse from stooping. Low thirst. Cough: dry spasmodic, constricted, asthmatic. Difficult breathing from least exercise; violent dyspnoea, with wheezing and anxiety about the stomach. Cough, with rattling of mucus in bronchi when inspiring; threatened suffocation from mucus. Pains as if bones were all torn to pieces.
#Veratrum album
Adapted to diseases with rapid sinking of the vital forces; complete prostration; collapse. Cold perspiration on the forehead (over entire body, Tab. ) with nearly all complaints. Thirst: intense, unquenchable, for large quantities of very cold water and acid drinks; wants everything cold. Diarrhoea: frequent, greenish, watery, gushing: mixed with flakes: cutting colic, with cramps commencing in hands and feet and spreading all over; prostrating, after fright; < least movement; with vomiting, cold sweat on forehead during and prostration after. Vomiting: excessive with nausea and great prostration: < by drinking ( Ars. ); by least motion ( Tab. ); great weakness after.
The Current Swine Flu Epidemic or Possible Influenza Pandemic
It has been reported that in the current Swine influenza epidemic, the gastrointestinal symptoms (Nausea, Vomiting) are pronounced. Considering this remedies like Baptisia, Arsenic-album or Ipecac may work as Genus epidemicus or as prophylactic treatment for the current Swine influenza epidemic.
How to differentiate in these flu medicines?
If the patient has mild flu like symptoms (runny nose and watery eyes etc) but no other peculiar symptom but is anxious if it might be swine flu - think about Aconite.
If the flu patient is listless, prostrated, indifferent, has offensive diarrhoea and the parts rested upon feel sore and bruised - think about Baptisia.
If the flu patient is restless, anxious or fearful, thirsty but drinks small quantities and often, prostrated, diarrhoea after eating or drinking and nausea on seeing/smelling food, burning pains - think about Arsenicum-album.
If the nausea is more pronounced, the patient is thirstless and has pain felt in bones - think about Ipecac. Also Ipecac should be thought of if a flu patient is developing or has developed broncho-pneumonia.
If the gastrointestinal symptoms are not marked but the patient has deep pains as if bones are aching - think about Eupatorium perf.
If the flu patient is feeling dull, dizzy, drowsy, has low thirst, feels chilly, esp in back - think about Gelsemium.
Lessons from the 1918/1919 Flu Pandemic
Many people believe that the current virus strain closely matches the 1918/1919 flu pandemic, although it is not exactly like it.
In the 1918/1919 flu pandemic, people without symptoms could be stricken suddenly and within hours be too weak to walk; many died the next day. Symptoms included a blue tint to the face and coughing up blood caused by severe obstruction of the lungs. In some cases, the virus caused an uncontrollable hemorrhaging that filled the lungs, and patients drowned in their body fluids (pneumonia). In others, the flu caused frequent loss of bowel control and the victim would die from losing critical intestinal lining and from blood loss.
If such symptoms present themselves in the current pandemic, the remedies that may prove useful would be Arsenic-album, Cantharis, Phosphorus, Cuprum-met, Camphora, Veratrum-album, Ipecac or Carbo-veg.
Ars-alb, Phosphorus, Ipecac and Carbo-veg seem to have a more pronounced action on lungs/respiratory symptoms in the above mentioned symptom group. Cantharis, Phosphorus, and Carbo-veg seem to cover the bloody stools better. Camphor and Verat-alb cover the acute collapse with bluish discoloration better.
Note
Homeopathic remedies need strict individualization and are given as specifically prepared, non-toxic, micro-dose homeopathic potencies. Please consult a qualified homeopath before taking any homeopathic remedy for Swine flu / influenza
Reference for Swine Flu Information
1. Center for Disease Control (CDC), USA
Friday, May 29, 2009
Zinc
Zinc Supplements
Zinc is found in traces in all tissues, except the bones, teeth, and pancreas which have slightly more amount of zinc. A normal adult contains 1.4-2.5 gm of zinc. Zinc level for adults in plasma or serum is 0.1/100 ml, and in whole blood it is 0.7mg/100 ml.
It is a component of vital enzyme carbonic anhydrase, and other enzymes like several dehydrogenises (alcohol, glutamics, and certain pyridine nucleotide) and pancreatic carboxypeptidase’s. It exists in the body mostly in combination with other constituents.
Zinc Supplements
TruNature Saw Palmetto with Zinc
Saw Palmetto with Zinc, Lycopene and Pumpkin Seed Prostate Health Complex - Extra Strength - 200 Softgels
TruNature Prostate Health Complex contains Lycopene, Pumpkin Seed and Saw Palmetto, nutrients that contain phytonutrients and fatty acids that may help maintain a healthy prostate. New Formula! Extra Strength. One Softgel Per Day.
Function of Zinc in Our Body
• It is an integral and essential element of insulin molecule. It easily forms a compound with insulin, and thus prolongs insulin action. As pancreas is rich in zinc, it helps storage of insulin in the pancreas.
• It promotes growth and sexual maturity, improves immune system and hastens healing of wounds.
• It also helps digestion of protein.
• It is an ideal remedy for fatigue.
• It is also needed to transport Vitamin A to the retina.
Natural Sources of Zinc
Sources of zinc are whole wheat, breakfast cereals, nuts, legumes, animal food, like crabs, sardines, oysters, lean meat, eggs, cheese, and fish.
Daily Requirement of Zinc
The RDA (recommended daily requirement) of 3 mg for infants, 10 mg for children, and 10-15 mg for adults is suggested. Most human diet provides these requirements. Growing children, pregnant and lactating women need more.
Zinc Deficiency
• The deficiency of zinc can cause loss of appetite and taste, alopecia, skin lesions, reduced growth, and dysfunction of reproductive system.
• Its deficiency also leads to hypogonadism, anemia, delayed genital maturation and hepatomegaly.
• Acute zinc efficiency results in mental apathy, diarrhoea, moist eczema, and dermatitis especially around the mouth.
Zinc in Excess
• Excess intake of zinc can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and damage to the kidneys.
• Too much of zinc can also cause loss of iron and copper in the body.
Zinc is found in traces in all tissues, except the bones, teeth, and pancreas which have slightly more amount of zinc. A normal adult contains 1.4-2.5 gm of zinc. Zinc level for adults in plasma or serum is 0.1/100 ml, and in whole blood it is 0.7mg/100 ml.
It is a component of vital enzyme carbonic anhydrase, and other enzymes like several dehydrogenises (alcohol, glutamics, and certain pyridine nucleotide) and pancreatic carboxypeptidase’s. It exists in the body mostly in combination with other constituents.
Zinc Supplements
TruNature Saw Palmetto with Zinc
Saw Palmetto with Zinc, Lycopene and Pumpkin Seed Prostate Health Complex - Extra Strength - 200 Softgels
TruNature Prostate Health Complex contains Lycopene, Pumpkin Seed and Saw Palmetto, nutrients that contain phytonutrients and fatty acids that may help maintain a healthy prostate. New Formula! Extra Strength. One Softgel Per Day.
Function of Zinc in Our Body
• It is an integral and essential element of insulin molecule. It easily forms a compound with insulin, and thus prolongs insulin action. As pancreas is rich in zinc, it helps storage of insulin in the pancreas.
• It promotes growth and sexual maturity, improves immune system and hastens healing of wounds.
• It also helps digestion of protein.
• It is an ideal remedy for fatigue.
• It is also needed to transport Vitamin A to the retina.
Natural Sources of Zinc
Sources of zinc are whole wheat, breakfast cereals, nuts, legumes, animal food, like crabs, sardines, oysters, lean meat, eggs, cheese, and fish.
Daily Requirement of Zinc
The RDA (recommended daily requirement) of 3 mg for infants, 10 mg for children, and 10-15 mg for adults is suggested. Most human diet provides these requirements. Growing children, pregnant and lactating women need more.
Zinc Deficiency
• The deficiency of zinc can cause loss of appetite and taste, alopecia, skin lesions, reduced growth, and dysfunction of reproductive system.
• Its deficiency also leads to hypogonadism, anemia, delayed genital maturation and hepatomegaly.
• Acute zinc efficiency results in mental apathy, diarrhoea, moist eczema, and dermatitis especially around the mouth.
Zinc in Excess
• Excess intake of zinc can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and damage to the kidneys.
• Too much of zinc can also cause loss of iron and copper in the body.
Manganese
Manganese Supplements
The human body contains 10-20 mg of manganese, and is widely distributed in body specially in intestinal track, liver and reproductive organs. It is stored in the blood and liver.
Manganese Supplements
Osteo Bi-Flex Advanced Triple Strength Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM
Osteo Bi-Flex Advanced Triple Strength Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM with Joint Shield, Vitamin C and Manganese Plus Boron - 280 Easy to Swallow Tablets
Osteo Bi-Flex promotes joint flexibility, comfort and range of motion by helping to support joint and cartilage health over time. Osteo Bi-Flex® supplies the scientifically researched ingredients, Glucosamine and Chondroitin, at the most popular levels to help maintain and renew cartilage and joints.Plus Osteo Bi Flex contains added nutrients for joint health: Vitamin C, Boron and Manganese.
Function of Manganese in Our Body
• It helps the synthesis of haemoglobin, like copper but on a lesser degree.
• A combination, of iron, copper, and manganese is given to treat hypochronic anaemia.
• It has a role in normal reproductive physiology and producing more milk and nursing mothers.
• Manganese ions activate many enzymes and helps in proper utilization of vitamin B and E.
• It is helpful in diabetes as it increases tolerance.
• Manganese as a component of different enzymes helps metabolise carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
• It helps in combination with Choline, in digestion and utilization of fat.
• Manganese nourishes the brain and nerves which helps in right coordination between brain, nerves and muscles in every part of the body.
Natural Sources of Manganese
Sources of manganese are whole grain bran, seeds, nuts, shell-fish, organ meats and black tea.
Daily requirement of Manganese
The RDA (recommended daily allowance) of 1.5 mg for Children and 2 to 5 mg for adults is recommended. Normal mixed diet contains about 2 mg, which is enough.
Manganese Deficiency
• Its deficiency result is poor growth, digestive disorders, and abnormal bone formation.
• On prolonged deficiency it may also affect fertility, and cause impotence in men.
The human body contains 10-20 mg of manganese, and is widely distributed in body specially in intestinal track, liver and reproductive organs. It is stored in the blood and liver.
Manganese Supplements
Osteo Bi-Flex Advanced Triple Strength Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM
Osteo Bi-Flex Advanced Triple Strength Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM with Joint Shield, Vitamin C and Manganese Plus Boron - 280 Easy to Swallow Tablets
Osteo Bi-Flex promotes joint flexibility, comfort and range of motion by helping to support joint and cartilage health over time. Osteo Bi-Flex® supplies the scientifically researched ingredients, Glucosamine and Chondroitin, at the most popular levels to help maintain and renew cartilage and joints.Plus Osteo Bi Flex contains added nutrients for joint health: Vitamin C, Boron and Manganese.
Function of Manganese in Our Body
• It helps the synthesis of haemoglobin, like copper but on a lesser degree.
• A combination, of iron, copper, and manganese is given to treat hypochronic anaemia.
• It has a role in normal reproductive physiology and producing more milk and nursing mothers.
• Manganese ions activate many enzymes and helps in proper utilization of vitamin B and E.
• It is helpful in diabetes as it increases tolerance.
• Manganese as a component of different enzymes helps metabolise carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
• It helps in combination with Choline, in digestion and utilization of fat.
• Manganese nourishes the brain and nerves which helps in right coordination between brain, nerves and muscles in every part of the body.
Natural Sources of Manganese
Sources of manganese are whole grain bran, seeds, nuts, shell-fish, organ meats and black tea.
Daily requirement of Manganese
The RDA (recommended daily allowance) of 1.5 mg for Children and 2 to 5 mg for adults is recommended. Normal mixed diet contains about 2 mg, which is enough.
Manganese Deficiency
• Its deficiency result is poor growth, digestive disorders, and abnormal bone formation.
• On prolonged deficiency it may also affect fertility, and cause impotence in men.
Iodine
Iodine Supplements
Iodine is am important trace element for healthy thyroid gland, which kills harmful germs, makes up it own hormone (thyroxin) and rebuilds energy. It is required for the synthesis of the thyroxin hormones-thyroxin and triodothyronine. It is present in the secretions of thyroid gland.
The iodine metabolism is controlled by thyroid. Iodine is an essential life. The total quantity in body is 25 mg, and half of it is in the thyroid as thyroglobulin, a complex of protein and iodine. About 30% is removed by the thyroid gland for the synthesis of the thyroid hormone, thyroxin, and the rest is excreted by the kidneys. Its concentration in thyroid gland is very high as compared to that in muscles and blood.
Iodine Supplements
The Breath of Life Lugol's Iodine Solution
The Breath of Life Lugol's Iodine Solution(2 oz.)
Lugol's taken internally in addition to replenishing the thyroid, also brings amazing relief and a calming, soothing, peaceful state to anxiety and a manic stage. It destroys vicious stomach bacteria, (especially salmonella), against gas, bloating, indigestion, heartburn.
Functions of Iodine in Our Body
• It reduces tension, keeps body and mind calm, and keeps skin, hair, teeth, nail etc in healthy condition and form.
• It helps in the chemical synthesis of cholesterol, thus checking its build up in arteries.
• It also burn extra fat in the body.
• It increases the heart rate as well as urinary calcium excretion.
Natural Sources of Iodine
Iodine is available in traces in water, food, common salts. Iodine found in sea-water is 0.2 mg per litre. Sea weeds and spongy shells are very rich in Iodine. The best sources are sea fish, ser salt, green vegetables and leaves like spinach grown on iodine rich soil. The common sources are milk, meat, and cereals. About 90% of the Iodine intake is obtained from the food consumed, and the remainder from the water. Common salt fortified with small quantities of sodium or potassium iodate is now compulsorily made available in the market as Iodised Salt to check goitre.
Daily Requirement of Iodine
The RDA (recommended daily allowance) is 80 mcg for children and 150 mcg for adults. The requirement for growing children, pregnant and lactating women is more.
Iodine Deficiency
• Iodine deficiency leads to enlargement of thyroid gland known as simple goitre, and swelling of feet or toes, enlarged glands, excessive hunger, neuralgic pains in the heart etc.
• Its deficiency may also causes deafness, and poor learning.
• Iodine deficiency or total loss will affect our mental and physical activity, obesity, and hardening of blood vessels.
• A dietary lack of iodine may cause anemia, tiredness, laziness, loss of interest in sex, a slow pulse, low blood pressure, and high blood cholesterol/triglyceride leading to heart disease.
• In children lack of iodine may lead to mental retardation, enlarged thyroid gland, defective speech, and clumsy gait is created. His skin is rough, and hair sparse, with brittle nails, bad teeth, and anaemic.
Iodine is am important trace element for healthy thyroid gland, which kills harmful germs, makes up it own hormone (thyroxin) and rebuilds energy. It is required for the synthesis of the thyroxin hormones-thyroxin and triodothyronine. It is present in the secretions of thyroid gland.
The iodine metabolism is controlled by thyroid. Iodine is an essential life. The total quantity in body is 25 mg, and half of it is in the thyroid as thyroglobulin, a complex of protein and iodine. About 30% is removed by the thyroid gland for the synthesis of the thyroid hormone, thyroxin, and the rest is excreted by the kidneys. Its concentration in thyroid gland is very high as compared to that in muscles and blood.
Iodine Supplements
The Breath of Life Lugol's Iodine Solution
The Breath of Life Lugol's Iodine Solution(2 oz.)
Lugol's taken internally in addition to replenishing the thyroid, also brings amazing relief and a calming, soothing, peaceful state to anxiety and a manic stage. It destroys vicious stomach bacteria, (especially salmonella), against gas, bloating, indigestion, heartburn.
Functions of Iodine in Our Body
• It reduces tension, keeps body and mind calm, and keeps skin, hair, teeth, nail etc in healthy condition and form.
• It helps in the chemical synthesis of cholesterol, thus checking its build up in arteries.
• It also burn extra fat in the body.
• It increases the heart rate as well as urinary calcium excretion.
Natural Sources of Iodine
Iodine is available in traces in water, food, common salts. Iodine found in sea-water is 0.2 mg per litre. Sea weeds and spongy shells are very rich in Iodine. The best sources are sea fish, ser salt, green vegetables and leaves like spinach grown on iodine rich soil. The common sources are milk, meat, and cereals. About 90% of the Iodine intake is obtained from the food consumed, and the remainder from the water. Common salt fortified with small quantities of sodium or potassium iodate is now compulsorily made available in the market as Iodised Salt to check goitre.
Daily Requirement of Iodine
The RDA (recommended daily allowance) is 80 mcg for children and 150 mcg for adults. The requirement for growing children, pregnant and lactating women is more.
Iodine Deficiency
• Iodine deficiency leads to enlargement of thyroid gland known as simple goitre, and swelling of feet or toes, enlarged glands, excessive hunger, neuralgic pains in the heart etc.
• Its deficiency may also causes deafness, and poor learning.
• Iodine deficiency or total loss will affect our mental and physical activity, obesity, and hardening of blood vessels.
• A dietary lack of iodine may cause anemia, tiredness, laziness, loss of interest in sex, a slow pulse, low blood pressure, and high blood cholesterol/triglyceride leading to heart disease.
• In children lack of iodine may lead to mental retardation, enlarged thyroid gland, defective speech, and clumsy gait is created. His skin is rough, and hair sparse, with brittle nails, bad teeth, and anaemic.
Calcium
Calcium Supplements
Calcium is the most important and largely required mineral in the Dietary Sources body. It is a white, malleable, metallic element and is found in the body as calcium carbonate, its compounds like calcium sulphate, calcium fluoride, and calcium phosphate.
Its absorption gets retarded with lot of fat, oxalic acid, and phytic acid in the diet. In the absence of Vitamin D there is decreased absorption of calcium from the food and also decreased level of phosphate in blood.
Calcium Supplements
Citracal Calcium Citrate - Calcium with Vitamin D
Citracal Calcium Citrate - Calcium with Vitamin D - 200 Caplets
Citracal - Calcium Citrate with Vitamin D is unique because it is calcium citrate, a highly soluble and absorbable form of calcium that allows the active calcium to be absorbed into your blood. Citracal+D can help protect you from osteoporosis. Its action can limit bone breakdown and protect against developing thin and brittle bones.
Nature Made Calcium Tablets with Vitamin D, 500 mg, 300-Count Bottles (Pack of 2)
Nature Made Calcium Tablets with Vitamin D, 500 mg, 300-Count Bottles (Pack of 2)
Nature Made Calcium Tablets with Vitamin D helps build strong bones and may help prevent Osteoporosis. Vitamin D stimulates the absorption of calcium; contains 50% RDA of Calcium and 50% 0f Vitamin D per tablet serving. Pack of two bottles, each bottle containing 300 bone-strengthening calcium tablets with 500 milligrams of Vitamin D (600 total tablets).
Function of Calcium in Our Body
• It is essential for strong teeth and healthy bones.
• Ionic calcium greatly helps in blood clotting, by acting as a cofactor in the coagulation process.
• Taking calcium reduces the risk of developing polyps which may be a precursor to cancer.
• It helps in blood clotting, maintaining nerve and muscle function.
Natural Sources of Calcium
Diary products like milk, curd, yoghurt and cheese are the best sources of calcium. Other important sources are spinach, fenugreek leaves, mustard leaves, dry figs, almonds, whole meal bread/flour, potatoes, dried apricot, citrus, celery, parsley, certain fish like pomfret, and fruits.
Other calcium rich items are bran cereals, breads, ragi, sea same seeds, pulses, rajmah, soyabean, poppy seed, dry, coconut, vegetables and fruits, and drink enough water (at least eight glasses a day).
Daily requirement of Calcium
The RDA (recommended daily allowance) is 400 to 500 mg of calcium for children and adults. For menopausal women, who do not take estrogen, it will be 1000 to 15000 mg of calcium.
Unfortunately, calcium tablets by themselves are barely absorbed and the calcium is excreted in the urine unutilized. So take the calcium supplement along with the vitamin D which is available in oily fish, fortified cereals, or exposure to sunlight.
The magnesium deficiency reduces the calcium levels. The ideal calcium to magnesium ratio is 2:1 for effective absorption. Natural sources of magnesium are green leafy vegetables, peanuts, soyabean and millets that are its rich sources.
The excess of calcium can cause kidney damage, constipation, nausea, excessive thirst, abdominal pain and general confusion.
Calcium Deficiency
• Calcium deficiency may cause back pain and low back pain.
• Calcium deficient persons become lazy, pale, and more sensitive to cold weather.
• Its deficiency also leads to irritability, fatigue, erratic behavior, emotional upsets flightiness and nervous tensions.
• Its deficiency also causes sweating around the head even during cold weather, porous and fragile bones, tooth decay, heart palpitations, muscle cramps, and insomnia.
• Women suffering from calcium deficiency may have problems like PMS, urinary infection, vaginal dryness and painful intercourse.
• Young girl’s suffering from calcium deficiency may have problems like delayed puberty, irregular menstruation, excessive bleeding with crampy pain, and anemia.
Calcium is the most important and largely required mineral in the Dietary Sources body. It is a white, malleable, metallic element and is found in the body as calcium carbonate, its compounds like calcium sulphate, calcium fluoride, and calcium phosphate.
Its absorption gets retarded with lot of fat, oxalic acid, and phytic acid in the diet. In the absence of Vitamin D there is decreased absorption of calcium from the food and also decreased level of phosphate in blood.
Calcium Supplements
Citracal Calcium Citrate - Calcium with Vitamin D
Citracal Calcium Citrate - Calcium with Vitamin D - 200 Caplets
Citracal - Calcium Citrate with Vitamin D is unique because it is calcium citrate, a highly soluble and absorbable form of calcium that allows the active calcium to be absorbed into your blood. Citracal+D can help protect you from osteoporosis. Its action can limit bone breakdown and protect against developing thin and brittle bones.
Nature Made Calcium Tablets with Vitamin D, 500 mg, 300-Count Bottles (Pack of 2)
Nature Made Calcium Tablets with Vitamin D, 500 mg, 300-Count Bottles (Pack of 2)
Nature Made Calcium Tablets with Vitamin D helps build strong bones and may help prevent Osteoporosis. Vitamin D stimulates the absorption of calcium; contains 50% RDA of Calcium and 50% 0f Vitamin D per tablet serving. Pack of two bottles, each bottle containing 300 bone-strengthening calcium tablets with 500 milligrams of Vitamin D (600 total tablets).
Function of Calcium in Our Body
• It is essential for strong teeth and healthy bones.
• Ionic calcium greatly helps in blood clotting, by acting as a cofactor in the coagulation process.
• Taking calcium reduces the risk of developing polyps which may be a precursor to cancer.
• It helps in blood clotting, maintaining nerve and muscle function.
Natural Sources of Calcium
Diary products like milk, curd, yoghurt and cheese are the best sources of calcium. Other important sources are spinach, fenugreek leaves, mustard leaves, dry figs, almonds, whole meal bread/flour, potatoes, dried apricot, citrus, celery, parsley, certain fish like pomfret, and fruits.
Other calcium rich items are bran cereals, breads, ragi, sea same seeds, pulses, rajmah, soyabean, poppy seed, dry, coconut, vegetables and fruits, and drink enough water (at least eight glasses a day).
Daily requirement of Calcium
The RDA (recommended daily allowance) is 400 to 500 mg of calcium for children and adults. For menopausal women, who do not take estrogen, it will be 1000 to 15000 mg of calcium.
Unfortunately, calcium tablets by themselves are barely absorbed and the calcium is excreted in the urine unutilized. So take the calcium supplement along with the vitamin D which is available in oily fish, fortified cereals, or exposure to sunlight.
The magnesium deficiency reduces the calcium levels. The ideal calcium to magnesium ratio is 2:1 for effective absorption. Natural sources of magnesium are green leafy vegetables, peanuts, soyabean and millets that are its rich sources.
The excess of calcium can cause kidney damage, constipation, nausea, excessive thirst, abdominal pain and general confusion.
Calcium Deficiency
• Calcium deficiency may cause back pain and low back pain.
• Calcium deficient persons become lazy, pale, and more sensitive to cold weather.
• Its deficiency also leads to irritability, fatigue, erratic behavior, emotional upsets flightiness and nervous tensions.
• Its deficiency also causes sweating around the head even during cold weather, porous and fragile bones, tooth decay, heart palpitations, muscle cramps, and insomnia.
• Women suffering from calcium deficiency may have problems like PMS, urinary infection, vaginal dryness and painful intercourse.
• Young girl’s suffering from calcium deficiency may have problems like delayed puberty, irregular menstruation, excessive bleeding with crampy pain, and anemia.
Magnesium
Magnesium Supplements
Magnesium is an essential element necessary for the oxidative phosphorylation enzymes. It is essential for the normal metabolism of calcium and potassium. It is a constituent of bones in combination with phosphate and carbonate, and is present in all body cells.
Magnesium Supplements
Cardiovascular Research Magnesium Taurate
Cardiovascular Research Magnesium Taurate, 180 capsules
Magnesium Taurate is a scientifically-designed amino acid-mineral complex which insures maximal bioavailability of the essential macromineral, magnesium. Magnesium Taurate is a fully reacted complex and not simply a blend of the two materials. Unlike some other magnesium preparations, magnesium taurate does not cause gastrointestinal upset.
Twinlab Magnesium Caps
Twinlab Magnesium Caps, 400 mg, 200 Capsules (Pack of 3)
Dietary supplement. Natural. High potency. Twinlab Magnesium Caps are easier to swallow and assimilate. Well tolerated by most highly allergic individuals. No tablet binders, coatings or colorings. Free of the most common allergens such as corn, soy, yeast, rice, barley, wheat, lactose (milk sugar), and all milk, citrus, fish and egg products.
Functions of Magnesium in Our Body
Various functions of magnesium in our body are:
• Magnesium ions activate the enzyme phosphatase, which accelerates the action of bone phosphatase.
• Magnesium activates muscles phosphatase, and as a member of a complex coenzyme system takes part in the chemical changes underlying muscular contraction.
• Magnesium helps formations of bone and teeth.
• The distribution and function of magnesium ion is generally antagonistic to that of calcium ion.
• Helps in utilization of Vitamin B and E, and functions with minerals calcium, sodium, and potassium to maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.
• Helps in production of lecithin, which checks cholesterol and atherosclerosis.
• Helps in preventing calcium deposits in kidneys and gallstones.
• Magnesium is necessary for normal neuromuscular contractions.
• Magnesium along with vitamin B-6 or pyridoxine is effective in prevention and treatment of kidney stones.
Natural Sources of Magnesium
Soyabean, leafy vegetables, and nuts are good sources of magnesium. Hard water has high magnesium content in it whereas milk is a poor source.
Daily Requirement of Magnesium
The RDA (recommended daily allowance) for infants is 40 mg during first 6 months, 60 mg in the second 6 months, and later at the rate of 3.0-4.5 mg/kg weight or 350 mg for adult men and 300 mg for women. Its presence in normal diet is generally enough to meat its requirement in the body.
Magnesium Deficiency
• Prolonged deficiency of magnesium can cause loss of calcium and potassium in body, and consequent their deficiencies.
• The deficiency of magnesium can cause magnesium-tetany, wherein blood magnesium falls, blood cholesterol rises, and the calcium content become very high in the soft tissues, especially in the muscles and the kidneys. It causes vascular disturbances, severe excitability, and lack of energy, increased or decreased reflexes, convulsions and untimely death.
Magnesium is an essential element necessary for the oxidative phosphorylation enzymes. It is essential for the normal metabolism of calcium and potassium. It is a constituent of bones in combination with phosphate and carbonate, and is present in all body cells.
Magnesium Supplements
Cardiovascular Research Magnesium Taurate
Cardiovascular Research Magnesium Taurate, 180 capsules
Magnesium Taurate is a scientifically-designed amino acid-mineral complex which insures maximal bioavailability of the essential macromineral, magnesium. Magnesium Taurate is a fully reacted complex and not simply a blend of the two materials. Unlike some other magnesium preparations, magnesium taurate does not cause gastrointestinal upset.
Twinlab Magnesium Caps
Twinlab Magnesium Caps, 400 mg, 200 Capsules (Pack of 3)
Dietary supplement. Natural. High potency. Twinlab Magnesium Caps are easier to swallow and assimilate. Well tolerated by most highly allergic individuals. No tablet binders, coatings or colorings. Free of the most common allergens such as corn, soy, yeast, rice, barley, wheat, lactose (milk sugar), and all milk, citrus, fish and egg products.
Functions of Magnesium in Our Body
Various functions of magnesium in our body are:
• Magnesium ions activate the enzyme phosphatase, which accelerates the action of bone phosphatase.
• Magnesium activates muscles phosphatase, and as a member of a complex coenzyme system takes part in the chemical changes underlying muscular contraction.
• Magnesium helps formations of bone and teeth.
• The distribution and function of magnesium ion is generally antagonistic to that of calcium ion.
• Helps in utilization of Vitamin B and E, and functions with minerals calcium, sodium, and potassium to maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.
• Helps in production of lecithin, which checks cholesterol and atherosclerosis.
• Helps in preventing calcium deposits in kidneys and gallstones.
• Magnesium is necessary for normal neuromuscular contractions.
• Magnesium along with vitamin B-6 or pyridoxine is effective in prevention and treatment of kidney stones.
Natural Sources of Magnesium
Soyabean, leafy vegetables, and nuts are good sources of magnesium. Hard water has high magnesium content in it whereas milk is a poor source.
Daily Requirement of Magnesium
The RDA (recommended daily allowance) for infants is 40 mg during first 6 months, 60 mg in the second 6 months, and later at the rate of 3.0-4.5 mg/kg weight or 350 mg for adult men and 300 mg for women. Its presence in normal diet is generally enough to meat its requirement in the body.
Magnesium Deficiency
• Prolonged deficiency of magnesium can cause loss of calcium and potassium in body, and consequent their deficiencies.
• The deficiency of magnesium can cause magnesium-tetany, wherein blood magnesium falls, blood cholesterol rises, and the calcium content become very high in the soft tissues, especially in the muscles and the kidneys. It causes vascular disturbances, severe excitability, and lack of energy, increased or decreased reflexes, convulsions and untimely death.
Fluorine
Fluorine Sources, Functions and Deficiency
Fluorine is one the most active element of halogen group. It belongs to the same group of elements as bromine, chlorine, and iodine. It is never found free in nature. In the body, it is found in combination with other constituents of the body. Natural water contains 3-12 mg of Fluoride per litre.
Ingested fluorides are completely ionized and rapidly absorbed, and distributed throughout the extra cellular fluid. The level is too low in blood and tissues. It is rapidly excreted in the urine.
Functions of Fluorine in Our Body
• Fluorine is essential for the normal mineralization of bones and the formation of dental enamel. Thus 96% of the Fluoride in the body is found in bones and teeth. The Fluorine and Calcium has strong affinity between them and work together, mainly in the outer parts of bones.
• Fluorine prevents dental caries, by reducing the solubility of the enamel in acids produced by bacteria. A very small amount of it may help in development of tooth, but excess of it causes dental fluorosis-endemic areas.
Natural Sources of Fluorine
The Fluorine is found in traces in water, and food. Sea food, cheese, and tea are good sources.
Daily Requirement of Fluorine
The safe and adequate RDA (recommended daily allowance) of Fluoride in the diet is 0.25 mg for children and 1.5 to 4.0 mg for adults. On an average we ingest about 1 mg of Fluoride daily from drinking water, and 0.25-0.35 mg from the diet. The drinking water should not contain more than 1-2 mg of Fluoride per litre.
In case of excessive content defluoridation of water should be done by adding two chemicals lime and alum in sequence followed by flocculation, sedimentation and filtration. Prolonged drinking of water containing Fluorine over 10 ppm, or handling of fluoride containing minerals can cause Fluorine intoxication, leading to pathological changes like increased density and hyper calcification of the bones.
Fluorine is one the most active element of halogen group. It belongs to the same group of elements as bromine, chlorine, and iodine. It is never found free in nature. In the body, it is found in combination with other constituents of the body. Natural water contains 3-12 mg of Fluoride per litre.
Ingested fluorides are completely ionized and rapidly absorbed, and distributed throughout the extra cellular fluid. The level is too low in blood and tissues. It is rapidly excreted in the urine.
Functions of Fluorine in Our Body
• Fluorine is essential for the normal mineralization of bones and the formation of dental enamel. Thus 96% of the Fluoride in the body is found in bones and teeth. The Fluorine and Calcium has strong affinity between them and work together, mainly in the outer parts of bones.
• Fluorine prevents dental caries, by reducing the solubility of the enamel in acids produced by bacteria. A very small amount of it may help in development of tooth, but excess of it causes dental fluorosis-endemic areas.
Natural Sources of Fluorine
The Fluorine is found in traces in water, and food. Sea food, cheese, and tea are good sources.
Daily Requirement of Fluorine
The safe and adequate RDA (recommended daily allowance) of Fluoride in the diet is 0.25 mg for children and 1.5 to 4.0 mg for adults. On an average we ingest about 1 mg of Fluoride daily from drinking water, and 0.25-0.35 mg from the diet. The drinking water should not contain more than 1-2 mg of Fluoride per litre.
In case of excessive content defluoridation of water should be done by adding two chemicals lime and alum in sequence followed by flocculation, sedimentation and filtration. Prolonged drinking of water containing Fluorine over 10 ppm, or handling of fluoride containing minerals can cause Fluorine intoxication, leading to pathological changes like increased density and hyper calcification of the bones.
Chromium
Chromium Supplements
Chromium is present in traces in all organic matter. It is a grayish-white metallic element. Earlier it was considered poisonous for human beings, but now said to be vital health.
Chromium Supplements
Nature Made Chromium Extra Strength
Nature Made Chromium Extra Strength, 350 mcg, 100 Tablets (Pack of 4)
Nature Made Chromium Extra Strength helps insulin function properly and regulates the absorption of glucose into cells.
* No Artificial Colors
* No Artificial Flavors
* No chemical solvents, starch or gluten
* No preservatives
Chromium - 300% more effective than chromium picolinate
Chromium - 300% more effective than chromium picolinate
Chromium helps insulin metabolize fat, turn protein into muscle and convert sugar into energy. In fact, chromium-activated insulin increases the amount of blood sugar available for energy production nearly twenty-fold. A lack of chromium can result in type II diabetes, obesity and heart disease.
* 600% more effective than chromium chloride. 300% more effective than chromium picolinate.
* 100 capsules
* Each capsule contains 200 mcg of chromium.
Functions of Chromium in Our Body
• It prevents diabetes and controls high blood pressure.
• It controls fatty acids and cholesterol synthesis.
• It prevents and delays hardening of arteries.
• It helps to take protein where it is needed and also helps in growth.
• It gets depleted with age, injuries, surgical operations, and strenuous exercise.
Natural Sources of Chromium
Sources of Chromium are nuts, areca nut, betel leaves, mushrooms, beer, liver, cereals (whole), shellfish, brewer’s yeast, corn oil etc.
Daily Requirements of Chromium
The RDA (recommended daily allowance) is 5 - 200 mcg for an adult. It can be 10-60 mcg for infants, and 20 - 200 mcg for children.
Chromium Deficiency
• Its deficiency may cause poor glucose tolerance leading to diabetes.
• Its deficiency may also lead to atherosclerosis and protein-energy malnutrition.
Chromium is present in traces in all organic matter. It is a grayish-white metallic element. Earlier it was considered poisonous for human beings, but now said to be vital health.
Chromium Supplements
Nature Made Chromium Extra Strength
Nature Made Chromium Extra Strength, 350 mcg, 100 Tablets (Pack of 4)
Nature Made Chromium Extra Strength helps insulin function properly and regulates the absorption of glucose into cells.
* No Artificial Colors
* No Artificial Flavors
* No chemical solvents, starch or gluten
* No preservatives
Chromium - 300% more effective than chromium picolinate
Chromium - 300% more effective than chromium picolinate
Chromium helps insulin metabolize fat, turn protein into muscle and convert sugar into energy. In fact, chromium-activated insulin increases the amount of blood sugar available for energy production nearly twenty-fold. A lack of chromium can result in type II diabetes, obesity and heart disease.
* 600% more effective than chromium chloride. 300% more effective than chromium picolinate.
* 100 capsules
* Each capsule contains 200 mcg of chromium.
Functions of Chromium in Our Body
• It prevents diabetes and controls high blood pressure.
• It controls fatty acids and cholesterol synthesis.
• It prevents and delays hardening of arteries.
• It helps to take protein where it is needed and also helps in growth.
• It gets depleted with age, injuries, surgical operations, and strenuous exercise.
Natural Sources of Chromium
Sources of Chromium are nuts, areca nut, betel leaves, mushrooms, beer, liver, cereals (whole), shellfish, brewer’s yeast, corn oil etc.
Daily Requirements of Chromium
The RDA (recommended daily allowance) is 5 - 200 mcg for an adult. It can be 10-60 mcg for infants, and 20 - 200 mcg for children.
Chromium Deficiency
• Its deficiency may cause poor glucose tolerance leading to diabetes.
• Its deficiency may also lead to atherosclerosis and protein-energy malnutrition.
Molybdenum
Molybdenum Supplements
Molybdenum is an essential trace element. The content of molybdenum in a plant depends upon the soil. The alkaline or neutral soil plant has higher content of molybdenum as compared to acidic soil. It occurs only in combination with other chemicals in the body. The half of its intake is excreted in urine.
Molybdenum Supplements
Solgar - Chelated Molybdenum
Solgar - Chelated Molybdenum, 100 tablets
Ingredients
Calcium: 85mg, Molybdenum: 150mcg
* Serving Size - 1 tablet
* Does Not Contain: Sugar, salt, starch, corn, yeast, wheat, soy products, preservatives, artificial flavors or colors.
Functions of Molybdenum in Our Body
• It works with several enzymes engaged in sulphur metabolism, uric acid formation, and alcohol detoxification.
• It helps in metabolism of carbohydrates and fats.
• It is essential for the synthesis of haemoglobin and absorption of iron.
• It promotes general well-being, and is beneficial in prevention of anaemia.
Natural Sources of Molybdenum
Molybdenum is mainly found in whole grains, pulses, legumes, leafy vegetables, and nuts. In fact item rich in protein and iron are also rich source of molybdenum.
Daily Requirement of Molybdenum
The RDA of 250 mcg for children and 500 mcg for adults is recommended. The normal mixed diet will meet the requirement of molybdenum.
Molybdenum Deficiency
• The deficiency of molybdenum is associated with mouth and oesphageal cancer.
• Its deficiency causes disturbances in iron metabolism, dental caries, and sulphite sensitivity.
Molybdenum in Excess
• Excess absorption of molybdenum has been show to produce bony deformities.
• High intake of molybdenum for prolonged period can cause gout.
Molybdenum is an essential trace element. The content of molybdenum in a plant depends upon the soil. The alkaline or neutral soil plant has higher content of molybdenum as compared to acidic soil. It occurs only in combination with other chemicals in the body. The half of its intake is excreted in urine.
Molybdenum Supplements
Solgar - Chelated Molybdenum
Solgar - Chelated Molybdenum, 100 tablets
Ingredients
Calcium: 85mg, Molybdenum: 150mcg
* Serving Size - 1 tablet
* Does Not Contain: Sugar, salt, starch, corn, yeast, wheat, soy products, preservatives, artificial flavors or colors.
Functions of Molybdenum in Our Body
• It works with several enzymes engaged in sulphur metabolism, uric acid formation, and alcohol detoxification.
• It helps in metabolism of carbohydrates and fats.
• It is essential for the synthesis of haemoglobin and absorption of iron.
• It promotes general well-being, and is beneficial in prevention of anaemia.
Natural Sources of Molybdenum
Molybdenum is mainly found in whole grains, pulses, legumes, leafy vegetables, and nuts. In fact item rich in protein and iron are also rich source of molybdenum.
Daily Requirement of Molybdenum
The RDA of 250 mcg for children and 500 mcg for adults is recommended. The normal mixed diet will meet the requirement of molybdenum.
Molybdenum Deficiency
• The deficiency of molybdenum is associated with mouth and oesphageal cancer.
• Its deficiency causes disturbances in iron metabolism, dental caries, and sulphite sensitivity.
Molybdenum in Excess
• Excess absorption of molybdenum has been show to produce bony deformities.
• High intake of molybdenum for prolonged period can cause gout.
Iron Supplements
Iron Supplements
Iron is of great importance in human nutrition for healthy blood and vitality. Though it is considered as a trace element, it is responsible for oxygen transport and cellular respiration.
Iron is found in the body as
• Iron porphyrins in haemoglobin , myoglobin.
• Iron enzymes in catalase, cytochrome and peroxidases.
• Non-iron porphyrins in transferring, ferritin and haemosiderin.
The total daily iron loss of an adult is less than 1 mg. Iron loss occurs due to loss of blood in haemorrhage, loss integumental tissues, during menstrual period, and pregnance/labour. When red blood cells are broken down, the liberated iron is not excreted, but is reutilized in the formation of new red cells.
Whole blood contains about 45-50 mg of iron per 100 ml. All the red cells contain a total quantity of about 3 gm of iron. The rest of the body contains another 1-3 gm of iron.
Iron is present in blood in two forms as:
• Plasma Iron
• Haemoglobin Iron
The absorption of iron depends upon
• Iron requirement of the individual e.g. increased during growth, anaemia, menstruation pregnancy, haemorrhage, etc.
• Form of iron compound e.g. the inorganic form of ferric available in food is to be first converted into organic ferrous form for best absorption.
• Reaction of the gastro intestinal tract e.g., the acidity of gastric juice helps liberation of iron from organic compounds of diet, and reduction from ferric to ferrous form of iron. Thus absorption is retarded by low gastric acidity, excessive mucus and administration of alkalies.
• Vitamin C and Calcium e.g., Vitamin C helps in reducing the ferric to ferrous state for absorption of iron form food. Small amount of Calcium decreases the formation of insoluble iron phosphates and thus promote absorption, but large amounts of Calcium inhibit assimilation.
• Pigments i.e., Chlorophyll and bile pigments increase the absorption of iron.
Iron Supplements
Slow Fe Slow Release Iron Tablets
Slow Fe Slow Release Iron Tablets 90-Count Box
High Potency. Slow Fe® with its unique controlled delivery system gives you the high potency iron you need with the gentleness you want.
* Gentle to Your System - clinically shown to reduce the side effects (constipation and abdominal discomfort) common to iron use.
* Doctor Preferred Ingredient - Slow Fe contains ferrous sulfate, the ingredient most recommended by doctors.
* Small Tablet - once a day dosage easy-to swallow Slow Fe provides the high dose of iron your body needs.
Formula: Each tablet contains: Active Ingredient - 160 mg. dried ferrous sulfate, SUP, equivalent to 50 mg. elemental iron.
Ferro-Sequels High Potency Iron Supplement Tablets
Ferro-Sequels High Potency Iron Supplement Tablets - 100 each
The effective way to treat iron deficiency. Optimal absorption with less gastric upset. Dual action formula! High potency/Easy to swallow, and they contain low sodium.
Function of Iron in Our Body
Various functions of iron in our body are:
• Formation of haemoglobin (Hb) by synthesis.
• Development of red cells by their formation and maturation.
• Carrying of Oxygen in blood in the form of Hb; 1 gm of Hb carries about 1.34 ml of oxygen.
• Tissue oxidation as cytochrome and indophenol oxidase are iron containing compounds concerned with the oxidation of metabolites in the cells.
• Supply of Oxygen to the muscle, as the myoglobin of muscle is an iron-containing chromoprotein like haeemoglomin, which combines will oxygen and acts as an oxygen store for muscle.
• Cell nucleus function, the chromatin of the nucleus contains iron which takes an active part (may be oxidative) in the functions of nuclei.
• Oxidation in nerve cells, as nissl granules in the cytoplasm of the nerve cells contain organically combined iron, which serves an essential role in oxidation. There granules disappear during activity of the nerve cells, and reappear during rest.
• Prevents fatigue and aids growth. Iron increases resistance to stress and disease.
Natural Sources of Iron
All wholegrain cereals, pulses, legumes, jaggery, fish, and animal foods like egg, liver, meat etc. (except milk, butter), and vegetables like dry lotus stem, cauliflower greens, turnip greens, lentils, peas, green leafy ones and fruits like black currants, water melons, raisins, dried dates are good sources of Iron.
Daily Requirement of Iron
The RDA of 1.0 mg/kg for infants, 20 mg for children, 25 mg for boys, 35 mg for girls, 24 mg for adult men, 32 mg during lactation is suggested. Normal diet provides required need. Adolescent boys/girls, and women during pregnancy and lactation need more of it.
Iron Deficiency
• Iron deficiency causes secondary anaemia (hypochromic), as the haemoglobin content of the red cells is lowered. The size and volume of the red cells get reduced.
• Iron deficient person feel fatigued, lethargic, vulnerable to infections and irritable.
• The deficiency of iron results in lowered resistance to disease, general run out, pale complexion, shortness of breath on exertion, loss of interest in sex, mental depression, and irritability.
• With iron deficiency you might feel colder than others and take time to warm up, as in this condition your body may produce low thyroid hormone (which is one of its heat regulators).
Iron is of great importance in human nutrition for healthy blood and vitality. Though it is considered as a trace element, it is responsible for oxygen transport and cellular respiration.
Iron is found in the body as
• Iron porphyrins in haemoglobin , myoglobin.
• Iron enzymes in catalase, cytochrome and peroxidases.
• Non-iron porphyrins in transferring, ferritin and haemosiderin.
The total daily iron loss of an adult is less than 1 mg. Iron loss occurs due to loss of blood in haemorrhage, loss integumental tissues, during menstrual period, and pregnance/labour. When red blood cells are broken down, the liberated iron is not excreted, but is reutilized in the formation of new red cells.
Whole blood contains about 45-50 mg of iron per 100 ml. All the red cells contain a total quantity of about 3 gm of iron. The rest of the body contains another 1-3 gm of iron.
Iron is present in blood in two forms as:
• Plasma Iron
• Haemoglobin Iron
The absorption of iron depends upon
• Iron requirement of the individual e.g. increased during growth, anaemia, menstruation pregnancy, haemorrhage, etc.
• Form of iron compound e.g. the inorganic form of ferric available in food is to be first converted into organic ferrous form for best absorption.
• Reaction of the gastro intestinal tract e.g., the acidity of gastric juice helps liberation of iron from organic compounds of diet, and reduction from ferric to ferrous form of iron. Thus absorption is retarded by low gastric acidity, excessive mucus and administration of alkalies.
• Vitamin C and Calcium e.g., Vitamin C helps in reducing the ferric to ferrous state for absorption of iron form food. Small amount of Calcium decreases the formation of insoluble iron phosphates and thus promote absorption, but large amounts of Calcium inhibit assimilation.
• Pigments i.e., Chlorophyll and bile pigments increase the absorption of iron.
Iron Supplements
Slow Fe Slow Release Iron Tablets
Slow Fe Slow Release Iron Tablets 90-Count Box
High Potency. Slow Fe® with its unique controlled delivery system gives you the high potency iron you need with the gentleness you want.
* Gentle to Your System - clinically shown to reduce the side effects (constipation and abdominal discomfort) common to iron use.
* Doctor Preferred Ingredient - Slow Fe contains ferrous sulfate, the ingredient most recommended by doctors.
* Small Tablet - once a day dosage easy-to swallow Slow Fe provides the high dose of iron your body needs.
Formula: Each tablet contains: Active Ingredient - 160 mg. dried ferrous sulfate, SUP, equivalent to 50 mg. elemental iron.
Ferro-Sequels High Potency Iron Supplement Tablets
Ferro-Sequels High Potency Iron Supplement Tablets - 100 each
The effective way to treat iron deficiency. Optimal absorption with less gastric upset. Dual action formula! High potency/Easy to swallow, and they contain low sodium.
Function of Iron in Our Body
Various functions of iron in our body are:
• Formation of haemoglobin (Hb) by synthesis.
• Development of red cells by their formation and maturation.
• Carrying of Oxygen in blood in the form of Hb; 1 gm of Hb carries about 1.34 ml of oxygen.
• Tissue oxidation as cytochrome and indophenol oxidase are iron containing compounds concerned with the oxidation of metabolites in the cells.
• Supply of Oxygen to the muscle, as the myoglobin of muscle is an iron-containing chromoprotein like haeemoglomin, which combines will oxygen and acts as an oxygen store for muscle.
• Cell nucleus function, the chromatin of the nucleus contains iron which takes an active part (may be oxidative) in the functions of nuclei.
• Oxidation in nerve cells, as nissl granules in the cytoplasm of the nerve cells contain organically combined iron, which serves an essential role in oxidation. There granules disappear during activity of the nerve cells, and reappear during rest.
• Prevents fatigue and aids growth. Iron increases resistance to stress and disease.
Natural Sources of Iron
All wholegrain cereals, pulses, legumes, jaggery, fish, and animal foods like egg, liver, meat etc. (except milk, butter), and vegetables like dry lotus stem, cauliflower greens, turnip greens, lentils, peas, green leafy ones and fruits like black currants, water melons, raisins, dried dates are good sources of Iron.
Daily Requirement of Iron
The RDA of 1.0 mg/kg for infants, 20 mg for children, 25 mg for boys, 35 mg for girls, 24 mg for adult men, 32 mg during lactation is suggested. Normal diet provides required need. Adolescent boys/girls, and women during pregnancy and lactation need more of it.
Iron Deficiency
• Iron deficiency causes secondary anaemia (hypochromic), as the haemoglobin content of the red cells is lowered. The size and volume of the red cells get reduced.
• Iron deficient person feel fatigued, lethargic, vulnerable to infections and irritable.
• The deficiency of iron results in lowered resistance to disease, general run out, pale complexion, shortness of breath on exertion, loss of interest in sex, mental depression, and irritability.
• With iron deficiency you might feel colder than others and take time to warm up, as in this condition your body may produce low thyroid hormone (which is one of its heat regulators).
Vitamin B8 Biotin
Vitamin B8 Supplements
Biotin has tremendous effect on yeast and some bacteria making it as a one of the most active biological substance. It is a part of many enzymes. It is easily soluble in hot water, but sparingly in alcohol and cold water.
It can be destroyed by food processing, alcohol, egg white, water, and oestrogen.
Vitamin B8 Supplements
SUPER POTENCY Biotin
SUPER POTENCY Biotin 5000 mcg - Promotes Skin, Hair & Nail Health - 120 Caps
* Super Potency Biotin 5000mcg
* Labolatory tested to meet strict quality control standards for potency and purity.
* One bottle - 120 rapid release capsules
Functions of Biotin in Our Body
• It contributes to our healthy immune system.
• It helps in our digestion, retards and hair graying.
• It maintains nervous system, skin and pigmentation.
• It acts as a coenzyme and helps in decarboxylation.
• It also helps in the deamination of threonine, serine, and aspartic acid.
Natural Sources of Biotin
It is found in abundance in yeast, liver, rice husk, and peanut. It is also produced in the intestines.
Daily Requirement of Biotin
The RDA for Biotin is 0.030-0.10 mg (30-100 mcg) for men and 0.05-0.10 mg (50-100mcg) for women. The Shampoo containing 0.5% of Biotin is used to check hair loss.
Biotin Deficiency
• The deficiency of Biotin results in weakness, pains, laziness, and loss of appetite.
• It causes skin problems, dandruff and hair loss.
Biotin has tremendous effect on yeast and some bacteria making it as a one of the most active biological substance. It is a part of many enzymes. It is easily soluble in hot water, but sparingly in alcohol and cold water.
It can be destroyed by food processing, alcohol, egg white, water, and oestrogen.
Vitamin B8 Supplements
SUPER POTENCY Biotin
SUPER POTENCY Biotin 5000 mcg - Promotes Skin, Hair & Nail Health - 120 Caps
* Super Potency Biotin 5000mcg
* Labolatory tested to meet strict quality control standards for potency and purity.
* One bottle - 120 rapid release capsules
Functions of Biotin in Our Body
• It contributes to our healthy immune system.
• It helps in our digestion, retards and hair graying.
• It maintains nervous system, skin and pigmentation.
• It acts as a coenzyme and helps in decarboxylation.
• It also helps in the deamination of threonine, serine, and aspartic acid.
Natural Sources of Biotin
It is found in abundance in yeast, liver, rice husk, and peanut. It is also produced in the intestines.
Daily Requirement of Biotin
The RDA for Biotin is 0.030-0.10 mg (30-100 mcg) for men and 0.05-0.10 mg (50-100mcg) for women. The Shampoo containing 0.5% of Biotin is used to check hair loss.
Biotin Deficiency
• The deficiency of Biotin results in weakness, pains, laziness, and loss of appetite.
• It causes skin problems, dandruff and hair loss.
Inositol
Inositol Supplements
Inositol is a number of Vitamin B group. It is a crystalline compound, soluble in water and has sweet taste, but is not a carbohydrate. It is stable in heat, but is destroyed by sulphur drugs, alcohol, and coffee.
Inositol Supplements
IP-6 Inositol Hexaphosphate, 800 Mg, 180 Tablets
IP-6 Inositol Hexaphosphate, 800 Mg, 180 Tablets
Inositol hexaphosphate. Supports breast, colon & prostate cells. IP-6 (inositol hexaphosphate) is a component of certain dietary fibers, particularly most cereal grains, legumes, and seeds high in oil. Many researchers believe that some of fiber's health benefits may be due to the antioxidant, immune enhancing, and cardiovascular supporting activities of IP-6 In-vitro and animal research has shown IP-6 to have significant protective and growth regulating effects on various cells and tissues including those of the colon, breast, and prostate. Three tablets of Source Naturals IP-6 contains 2400 mg of IP-6, free of other active ingredients. Only IP-6 in this form has consistently demonstrated positive research results.
Functions of Inositol in Our Body
• It helps in transportation of fat.
• It provides nourishment of brain cells.
• It helps in lowing of cholesterol.
• It promotes healthy hair, and prevents eczema.
Natural Sources of Inositol
Important sources of Inositol are brewer’s yeast, beans, wheat germ, grapefruit, raisins, unrefined molasses, peanuts and cabbage.
Daily Requirement of Inositol
The RDA is considered as 500 mg for children and 1000mg for adults.
Inositol Deficiency
• The deficiency of Inositol may have symptoms of Alopecia or patchy baldness, raised blood pressure, liver hardening and its malfunction, gastritis, eczema.
• Its deficiency in animals can cause alopecia in mice and a peculiar eye (known as spectacle eye condition) in rats.
Inositol is a number of Vitamin B group. It is a crystalline compound, soluble in water and has sweet taste, but is not a carbohydrate. It is stable in heat, but is destroyed by sulphur drugs, alcohol, and coffee.
Inositol Supplements
IP-6 Inositol Hexaphosphate, 800 Mg, 180 Tablets
IP-6 Inositol Hexaphosphate, 800 Mg, 180 Tablets
Inositol hexaphosphate. Supports breast, colon & prostate cells. IP-6 (inositol hexaphosphate) is a component of certain dietary fibers, particularly most cereal grains, legumes, and seeds high in oil. Many researchers believe that some of fiber's health benefits may be due to the antioxidant, immune enhancing, and cardiovascular supporting activities of IP-6 In-vitro and animal research has shown IP-6 to have significant protective and growth regulating effects on various cells and tissues including those of the colon, breast, and prostate. Three tablets of Source Naturals IP-6 contains 2400 mg of IP-6, free of other active ingredients. Only IP-6 in this form has consistently demonstrated positive research results.
Functions of Inositol in Our Body
• It helps in transportation of fat.
• It provides nourishment of brain cells.
• It helps in lowing of cholesterol.
• It promotes healthy hair, and prevents eczema.
Natural Sources of Inositol
Important sources of Inositol are brewer’s yeast, beans, wheat germ, grapefruit, raisins, unrefined molasses, peanuts and cabbage.
Daily Requirement of Inositol
The RDA is considered as 500 mg for children and 1000mg for adults.
Inositol Deficiency
• The deficiency of Inositol may have symptoms of Alopecia or patchy baldness, raised blood pressure, liver hardening and its malfunction, gastritis, eczema.
• Its deficiency in animals can cause alopecia in mice and a peculiar eye (known as spectacle eye condition) in rats.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C Supplements
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a water-soluble vitamin. It is the most sensitive of all vitamins to heat. It is destroyed by alkalis, copper salts, cooking and canning. Slow cooking is more damaging than rapid cooking, even at raised temperatures. It can be saved in cooking/canning in absence of oxygen.
It is an actively reducing substance present in living tissues, and reduces silver nitrate, ferricyanide, methylene blue etc. Being water soluble it can penetrate every cell membrane, except, the fat cells, and helps to keep the cell membrane intact which is important for the efficient functioning of the cell.
Ascorbic Acid is easily absorbed into the bloodstream from the upper part of the small intestine. The amount of Ascorbic Acid in different tissues: liver, adrenals, pituitary, brain, kidney, spleen and corpus luteum have relatively high concentration; blood cells contain over more than the bloodstream.
Vitamin C Supplements
Vitamin C, 1000 mg, Premium Tablets
Vitamin C, 1000 mg, Premium Tablets, Value Size, 300 premium tablets
This Nature Made product provides vitamin C, a versatile and essential vitamin critical for the proper functioning of our immune system. In addition, vitamin C helps manufacture certain nerve-transmitting substances and hormones while helping absorb and utilize other nutrients, such as vitamin E and iron. Vitamin C also makes collagen, which holds connective tissues together in skin, bone, teeth, and other parts of the body.
Vitamin C is an important and powerful antioxidant that works in the aqueous (water) environments of the body, such as the lungs and lens of the eye. Its primary antioxidant partners are vitamin E and the carotenes (such as beta-carotene), but it also works with the antioxidant enzymes. Vitamin C regenerates oxidized vitamin E and restores the antioxidant potential of vitamin E in the body.
Vitamin C is recommended as part of a daily regimen for women's and men's health, longevity, heart strength, and immunity.
Function of Vitamin C in Our Body
• It fights germs, kills viruses and keeps the effects of pollution, down to minimal.
• It helps the body build healthy new tissue if you get hurt. It helps in body repair.
• It an important role to play in tissue oxidation.
• It is needed for the formation of collagen, which accounts for 25 percent of total body protein.
• It also helps in prevention of common cold and protect against infections are not substantiated.
Natural Sources of Vitamin C
Amla or the Indian gooseberry is one of the richest sources of vitamin C both in the fresh as well as in the dry condition. Guavas are another cheap but rich sources of this vitamin. Other important sources of Vitamin C are fresh fruits and green leafy vegetables.
Daily Requirement of Vitamin C
The RDA (recommended daily allowance) of Vitamin C is 60 mg.
Vitamin C Deficiency
Deficiency of vitamin C results in scurvy. Its common symptoms are swollen and bleeding gums, bleeding into the skin or joints, delayed wound healing, anaemia and weakness.
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a water-soluble vitamin. It is the most sensitive of all vitamins to heat. It is destroyed by alkalis, copper salts, cooking and canning. Slow cooking is more damaging than rapid cooking, even at raised temperatures. It can be saved in cooking/canning in absence of oxygen.
It is an actively reducing substance present in living tissues, and reduces silver nitrate, ferricyanide, methylene blue etc. Being water soluble it can penetrate every cell membrane, except, the fat cells, and helps to keep the cell membrane intact which is important for the efficient functioning of the cell.
Ascorbic Acid is easily absorbed into the bloodstream from the upper part of the small intestine. The amount of Ascorbic Acid in different tissues: liver, adrenals, pituitary, brain, kidney, spleen and corpus luteum have relatively high concentration; blood cells contain over more than the bloodstream.
Vitamin C Supplements
Vitamin C, 1000 mg, Premium Tablets
Vitamin C, 1000 mg, Premium Tablets, Value Size, 300 premium tablets
This Nature Made product provides vitamin C, a versatile and essential vitamin critical for the proper functioning of our immune system. In addition, vitamin C helps manufacture certain nerve-transmitting substances and hormones while helping absorb and utilize other nutrients, such as vitamin E and iron. Vitamin C also makes collagen, which holds connective tissues together in skin, bone, teeth, and other parts of the body.
Vitamin C is an important and powerful antioxidant that works in the aqueous (water) environments of the body, such as the lungs and lens of the eye. Its primary antioxidant partners are vitamin E and the carotenes (such as beta-carotene), but it also works with the antioxidant enzymes. Vitamin C regenerates oxidized vitamin E and restores the antioxidant potential of vitamin E in the body.
Vitamin C is recommended as part of a daily regimen for women's and men's health, longevity, heart strength, and immunity.
Function of Vitamin C in Our Body
• It fights germs, kills viruses and keeps the effects of pollution, down to minimal.
• It helps the body build healthy new tissue if you get hurt. It helps in body repair.
• It an important role to play in tissue oxidation.
• It is needed for the formation of collagen, which accounts for 25 percent of total body protein.
• It also helps in prevention of common cold and protect against infections are not substantiated.
Natural Sources of Vitamin C
Amla or the Indian gooseberry is one of the richest sources of vitamin C both in the fresh as well as in the dry condition. Guavas are another cheap but rich sources of this vitamin. Other important sources of Vitamin C are fresh fruits and green leafy vegetables.
Daily Requirement of Vitamin C
The RDA (recommended daily allowance) of Vitamin C is 60 mg.
Vitamin C Deficiency
Deficiency of vitamin C results in scurvy. Its common symptoms are swollen and bleeding gums, bleeding into the skin or joints, delayed wound healing, anaemia and weakness.
Vitamin B9
Vitamin B9 Supplements
Vitamin B9 or Folic Acid, also called Folacin and Folate plays important role in the synthesis of the nucleic acids (which constitute the chromosomes). It is also needed for the normal development of blood cells.
Folic acid occurs in food in two forms: free folates and bound folates. The total folates represent both the groups. In man, free folate is rapidly absorbed; primarily form the proximal part of small intestine. The availability of bound folate is uncertain.
Folic acid gets destroyed with overcooking and thus creates deficiency in our body. It undergoes fast destruction on heating in neutral and alkaline medium.
Vitamin B9 Supplements
Folgard Folic Acid Complex
Folgard Folic Acid Complex, 60 Tablets
Folic Acid, Vitamins B-6, B-12 combination is a healthy heart formula.Taste-free and made in easy-to-swallow tablets. Take one Folgard tablet daily, preferably in the evening. Folgard should be taken consistently for optimum benefits.
Folic Acid, 800 mcg, Tablets
Folic Acid, 800 mcg, Tablets, 1000 tablets (Pack of 2)
Folic acid, along with Vitamin B-12, is required for the synthesis of DNA, the principal genetic material in the body. Because of this function, it is important in cell division and the healthy development and structure of red blood cells. Adequate folic acid may reduce a woman's risk of having a child with a brain or spinal cord birth defect, making it an important nutritional supplement for women who are of intend to become pregnant.
Functions of Folic Acid in Our Body
• It is essential for the synthesis of DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid) that carries hereditary patterns.
• Its supplementation during pregnancy improves birth weight, and reduces the chances of small for-dates of infants.
• It helps reduce heart disease too and colon cancer.
• It also improves lactation.
• It takes part in the formation and maturation of the red cells.
• Along wit Vitamin B-12 it helps in the synthesis of nucleic acid.
Natural Sources of Folic Acid
Sources of folic acid are liver, meat, dairy products, eggs, milk, fruits, kidney, cauliflower, leafy vegetables and cereals.
Daily Requirement of Folic Acid
The RDA is 100 mcg for adults. The RDA needs to the double during pregnancy. The requirement is very high in conditions of fast cell multiplication, like growing children, pregnancy, infections haemolytic anaemias, and neoplastic disorders.
Folic Acid Deficiency
• Its deficiency causes malnourishment.
• Its deficiency results in megaloblastic anaemia, gastrointestinal disorders, diarrhoea, glossitis, and cheilosis.
• Its high deficiency affects fertility.
• Its deficiency may also lead to loss of libido in males.
Vitamin B9 or Folic Acid, also called Folacin and Folate plays important role in the synthesis of the nucleic acids (which constitute the chromosomes). It is also needed for the normal development of blood cells.
Folic acid occurs in food in two forms: free folates and bound folates. The total folates represent both the groups. In man, free folate is rapidly absorbed; primarily form the proximal part of small intestine. The availability of bound folate is uncertain.
Folic acid gets destroyed with overcooking and thus creates deficiency in our body. It undergoes fast destruction on heating in neutral and alkaline medium.
Vitamin B9 Supplements
Folgard Folic Acid Complex
Folgard Folic Acid Complex, 60 Tablets
Folic Acid, Vitamins B-6, B-12 combination is a healthy heart formula.Taste-free and made in easy-to-swallow tablets. Take one Folgard tablet daily, preferably in the evening. Folgard should be taken consistently for optimum benefits.
Folic Acid, 800 mcg, Tablets
Folic Acid, 800 mcg, Tablets, 1000 tablets (Pack of 2)
Folic acid, along with Vitamin B-12, is required for the synthesis of DNA, the principal genetic material in the body. Because of this function, it is important in cell division and the healthy development and structure of red blood cells. Adequate folic acid may reduce a woman's risk of having a child with a brain or spinal cord birth defect, making it an important nutritional supplement for women who are of intend to become pregnant.
Functions of Folic Acid in Our Body
• It is essential for the synthesis of DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid) that carries hereditary patterns.
• Its supplementation during pregnancy improves birth weight, and reduces the chances of small for-dates of infants.
• It helps reduce heart disease too and colon cancer.
• It also improves lactation.
• It takes part in the formation and maturation of the red cells.
• Along wit Vitamin B-12 it helps in the synthesis of nucleic acid.
Natural Sources of Folic Acid
Sources of folic acid are liver, meat, dairy products, eggs, milk, fruits, kidney, cauliflower, leafy vegetables and cereals.
Daily Requirement of Folic Acid
The RDA is 100 mcg for adults. The RDA needs to the double during pregnancy. The requirement is very high in conditions of fast cell multiplication, like growing children, pregnancy, infections haemolytic anaemias, and neoplastic disorders.
Folic Acid Deficiency
• Its deficiency causes malnourishment.
• Its deficiency results in megaloblastic anaemia, gastrointestinal disorders, diarrhoea, glossitis, and cheilosis.
• Its high deficiency affects fertility.
• Its deficiency may also lead to loss of libido in males.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E Supplements
Vitamin E is the generic name for a group of closely related and naturally occurring fat soluble compounds, the tocopherols. Of these, alpha-tocopherol is biologically the most potent.
Natural Vitamin E derived from natural vegetables oil is known as D-Alpha Tocopherol and synthetic one as D-1 Alpho Tocopherol Acetate. It is claimed natural Vitamin E has 36% greater potency, and it remains in the body for a much longer period, and twice as effective as compared to synthetic Vitamin E.
Vitamin E Supplements
Vitamin E 400 I.U. Water Soluble, (300 Softgels)
Vitamin E 400 I.U. Water Soluble, (300 Softgels)
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that fights damaging natural substances known as free radicals. It is incorporated into the fat-based tissues of the body, such as the heart, fat-carrier molecules such as LDL (bad cholesterol), and our cell membranes, where it acts to stabilize these structures and protect them from free radical attack. Vitamin E also protects our cells from compounds such as lead, mercury, and other heavy metals. Vitamin E is complimentary to vitamin C, and it's recommended that people take them together.
Water-soluble vitamin E is preferred for people who have difficulty absorbing fat and may suffer from deficiencies consuming fat-soluble vitamins. Because of vitamin E's strong antioxidant effects, it's an important part of an individual's daily regimen, and addresses heart health, men's and women's health, longevity, prenatal care, memory, and fitness.
Functions of Vitamin E in Our Body
• It prevents frequent miscarriage in women.
• It relieves hot flushes and depression in menopausal women.
• It is essential for normal function of muscles.
• It prevents peroxidation and brown pigmentation due to formation of highly unsaturated fatty acids.
• It prevents hepatic necrosis caused by deficiency of sulphur-containing amino acids and selenium.
• It helps fight against the free radicals, is beneficial for the skin and helps prevent wrinkle formation by preventing the oxidative damage caused by ultraviolet light.
• It acts protective in heart disease and diabetes.
• It prevents tissue damage in case of ischemia and injury, management of leg cramps and rheumatoid arthritis, and has anticoagulant effect.
• It is useful in restricting the oxidative damage caused by cigarette smoking, and checks tissues damages from accelerated free radicals among alcoholics.
• It protects the body from harmful, tumor-promoting chemicals in smoked, pickled and cured foods.
• Vitamin E decreases clotting of blood inside blood vessels, and hence, is beneficial for checking the varicose veins.
Natural Sources of Vitamin E
Vitamin E is available in leafy vegetables, corn, soyabean wheat, and whole grain cereals, and nut and vegetables seeds oil. It is found in milk, egg, fish and muscles. Food rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are often rich also in Vitamin E. The foods of animal origin are generally low in Vitamin E. It is also prepared synthetically.
Daily Requirement of Vitamin E
The average daily requirement is about 8 to 10 mg in males and 7-8 mg in females of Vitamin E.
Vitamin E Deficiency
• Vitamin E deficiency produces muscular dystrophy, resulting in increased uptake of oxygen.
• Low Vitamin E level in the blood can increase the risk for certain cancer of lung, breast and gastrointestinal tract.
Vitamin E is the generic name for a group of closely related and naturally occurring fat soluble compounds, the tocopherols. Of these, alpha-tocopherol is biologically the most potent.
Natural Vitamin E derived from natural vegetables oil is known as D-Alpha Tocopherol and synthetic one as D-1 Alpho Tocopherol Acetate. It is claimed natural Vitamin E has 36% greater potency, and it remains in the body for a much longer period, and twice as effective as compared to synthetic Vitamin E.
Vitamin E Supplements
Vitamin E 400 I.U. Water Soluble, (300 Softgels)
Vitamin E 400 I.U. Water Soluble, (300 Softgels)
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that fights damaging natural substances known as free radicals. It is incorporated into the fat-based tissues of the body, such as the heart, fat-carrier molecules such as LDL (bad cholesterol), and our cell membranes, where it acts to stabilize these structures and protect them from free radical attack. Vitamin E also protects our cells from compounds such as lead, mercury, and other heavy metals. Vitamin E is complimentary to vitamin C, and it's recommended that people take them together.
Water-soluble vitamin E is preferred for people who have difficulty absorbing fat and may suffer from deficiencies consuming fat-soluble vitamins. Because of vitamin E's strong antioxidant effects, it's an important part of an individual's daily regimen, and addresses heart health, men's and women's health, longevity, prenatal care, memory, and fitness.
Functions of Vitamin E in Our Body
• It prevents frequent miscarriage in women.
• It relieves hot flushes and depression in menopausal women.
• It is essential for normal function of muscles.
• It prevents peroxidation and brown pigmentation due to formation of highly unsaturated fatty acids.
• It prevents hepatic necrosis caused by deficiency of sulphur-containing amino acids and selenium.
• It helps fight against the free radicals, is beneficial for the skin and helps prevent wrinkle formation by preventing the oxidative damage caused by ultraviolet light.
• It acts protective in heart disease and diabetes.
• It prevents tissue damage in case of ischemia and injury, management of leg cramps and rheumatoid arthritis, and has anticoagulant effect.
• It is useful in restricting the oxidative damage caused by cigarette smoking, and checks tissues damages from accelerated free radicals among alcoholics.
• It protects the body from harmful, tumor-promoting chemicals in smoked, pickled and cured foods.
• Vitamin E decreases clotting of blood inside blood vessels, and hence, is beneficial for checking the varicose veins.
Natural Sources of Vitamin E
Vitamin E is available in leafy vegetables, corn, soyabean wheat, and whole grain cereals, and nut and vegetables seeds oil. It is found in milk, egg, fish and muscles. Food rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are often rich also in Vitamin E. The foods of animal origin are generally low in Vitamin E. It is also prepared synthetically.
Daily Requirement of Vitamin E
The average daily requirement is about 8 to 10 mg in males and 7-8 mg in females of Vitamin E.
Vitamin E Deficiency
• Vitamin E deficiency produces muscular dystrophy, resulting in increased uptake of oxygen.
• Low Vitamin E level in the blood can increase the risk for certain cancer of lung, breast and gastrointestinal tract.
Vitamin B5
Vitamins B5 Supplements
Pantothenic Acid is a pale yellow oily liquid. It is non crystalline but its crystallized form as calcium salt is easily available. It gets destroyed in acidic and alkaline solutions, but it stable in neutral medium.
Food processing, caffeine, sulphur drugs, sleeping pills, alcohol etc, also destroy it. Recent work indicates a more specific role for pantothenic acid in the biosynthesis of corticosteroids. Human blood normally contains 18 to 35 mg of pantothenic acid per 100 ml.
Vitamin B5 Supplements
Pantothenic Acid Vit B-5 500mg
Pantothenic Acid Vit B-5 500mg, 200 tablets (Pack of 2)
Dietary supplement. Vitamin B-5. Pantothenic acid is a member of the B-Vitamin family, and is often referred to as Vitamin B-5. Its bioactive form, coenzyme A, plays many roles in the body, including the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, the production of energy as well as the synthesis of red blood cells and the key neurotransmitter, acetylcholine.
Functions of Pantothenic Acid in Our Body
• It is considered necessary for synthesis of antibiotics, nervous and digestive system.
• It is expected to blacken hair, though not proved.
• It is a part of the enzyme to metabolize protein, carbohydrate and fats and also helps in synthesis of amino acids.
• It is also reported to be responsible for pigmentation of blood cells.
• It is considered beneficial in stress relieving, arthritis, infections, skin disorders, and premature graying.
Natural Sources of Pantothenic Acid
It is widely distributed both in animal and plant foods. It is found in whole wheat, peanut, mushroom, soyabean, brewer’s yeast, peas, molasses, kidney, liver, brain etc.
Daily Requirement of Pantothenic Acid
It is felt that about 4-10 mg for men and 4-7 mg for women of Pantothenic Acid per day would suffice us, since no definite requirement has been worked out.
Pantothenic Acid Deficiency
• Its deficiency may result in dermatitis, fatty liver, degeneration of spinal cord, and gastro intestinal disturbances.
• Its deficiency may also cause dizzy spells, skin disorders and disturbance in digestion.
Pantothenic Acid is a pale yellow oily liquid. It is non crystalline but its crystallized form as calcium salt is easily available. It gets destroyed in acidic and alkaline solutions, but it stable in neutral medium.
Food processing, caffeine, sulphur drugs, sleeping pills, alcohol etc, also destroy it. Recent work indicates a more specific role for pantothenic acid in the biosynthesis of corticosteroids. Human blood normally contains 18 to 35 mg of pantothenic acid per 100 ml.
Vitamin B5 Supplements
Pantothenic Acid Vit B-5 500mg
Pantothenic Acid Vit B-5 500mg, 200 tablets (Pack of 2)
Dietary supplement. Vitamin B-5. Pantothenic acid is a member of the B-Vitamin family, and is often referred to as Vitamin B-5. Its bioactive form, coenzyme A, plays many roles in the body, including the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, the production of energy as well as the synthesis of red blood cells and the key neurotransmitter, acetylcholine.
Functions of Pantothenic Acid in Our Body
• It is considered necessary for synthesis of antibiotics, nervous and digestive system.
• It is expected to blacken hair, though not proved.
• It is a part of the enzyme to metabolize protein, carbohydrate and fats and also helps in synthesis of amino acids.
• It is also reported to be responsible for pigmentation of blood cells.
• It is considered beneficial in stress relieving, arthritis, infections, skin disorders, and premature graying.
Natural Sources of Pantothenic Acid
It is widely distributed both in animal and plant foods. It is found in whole wheat, peanut, mushroom, soyabean, brewer’s yeast, peas, molasses, kidney, liver, brain etc.
Daily Requirement of Pantothenic Acid
It is felt that about 4-10 mg for men and 4-7 mg for women of Pantothenic Acid per day would suffice us, since no definite requirement has been worked out.
Pantothenic Acid Deficiency
• Its deficiency may result in dermatitis, fatty liver, degeneration of spinal cord, and gastro intestinal disturbances.
• Its deficiency may also cause dizzy spells, skin disorders and disturbance in digestion.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)