Do You Need Vitamins On A Low Carb Diet?

Should I Take Vitamins With My Low Carb Diet?

Most low carb diets advocate that users reduce consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. While this may lead to considerable weight-loss, it will most definitely lead to a reduction in necessary stores of vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients.

This is why it is important for low carb dieters to augment meals with supplements.

The following is a partial list of some of the essential nutrients you may be lacking if you are on a low carb diet:

1. Vitamin C.

Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, berries, fruit juice, fresh vegetables, potatoes, and tomatoes. A healthy intake of Vitamin C facilitates the absorption of iron, keeps blood vessels healthy, and can arguably prevent cancer. Here's a little known fact: a red pepper has more vitamin C than an orange!

2. Vitamin E.

Vitamin E is found in green leafy vegetables, vegetable oils, certain cereals, nuts, and wheat germ. Vitamin E has been associated with good skin health and the prevention of cancer and heart disease.

3. Fiber.

Fiber is found in vegetables, fruits, beans, nuts, and whole grains. Fiber is associated with good colon health and has been shown to reduce the chance of colon cancer. A fiber intake of 20-35 grams per day has been shown to prevent and alleviate constipation--and also break dietary "stalls" in weight loss.

As a low carb dieter, you will need to find supplements that take the place of these essential nutrients if you want to lose weight and maintain good health.

Some low carb diets suggest that you take up to 30 different types of supplements daily. However, it may be easier to assess your diet, find out what you are lacking, and then find a multi-vitamin that suits your nutritional deficiencies.

You will also want to find a fiber supplement to prevent constipation and maintain good colon health.

If you are unsure exactly which nutrients you are lacking in your low carb diet, you should check your diet plan for suggestions or consult a physician.

Benji Paras runs <a target="_new" href="http://www.list-of-low-carb-food.com">http://www.list-of-low-carb-food.com</a>, specializing in the benefits of the low-carb lifestyle. The site contains a treasure trove of information for losing weight, and includes a <a target="_new" href="http://www.list-of-low-carb-food.com">list of low carb foods</a> along with informative articles and the latest low-carb headlines.

Antioxidants

Biological oxidation involves transferring electrons from one oxygen molecule to another. Sometimes an electron escapes. When this happens the &quot;free&quot; electron is called a free radical. Free radicals constantly form almost everywhere in the body at an astonishing rate. Free radicals can be enemies or friends. Our body's internal environment must interact with them the right way, or they can cause serious damage. The key is to maintain the optimal balance between free radicals and antioxidants.

Antioxidants are a group of compounds that are produced by the body, or occur naturally in many plants. Antioxidants are the free radical police of the body, on call 24/7. Antioxidants protect us from the oxidative stress caused by free radicals.

Populations that consume large amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables, tea, and red wine enjoy increased longevity and decreased risk of serious diseases. Scientific literature suggests that dietary supplementation with single nutrients may not be beneficial, but that whole food supplements that contain a naturally occurring blend of nutrients is preferred. The literature has documented that the interaction of combined nutrients can produce a total effect that is synergistic. The effects of the blend are greater than the sum of the effects of individual nutrient.

Australian Bush Plum ? is a small deciduous tree found in Northwestern Australia. During the wet season the plant produces small plum like fruits that look and taste like gooseberries.

Nutrient analysis indicate that the fruit contains small amounts of vitamin B1 and B2; it also contains sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc, copper, and phosphorus. With the average vitamin C content of 3.0 ? 3.5% (range= .2 to 5.9%) the bush plum provides the most concentrated natural source of vitamin C known. The typical bush plum contains about 2907 mg vitamin C per 100 grams of edible fruit.

Grape Skin Extract ? Recognition that whole food extracts contain a full complement of naturally occurring phytonutrients stimulated studies of grape skin extracts. Resveratrol and Quercetin are the most extensively researched grape skin phytonutrients.

Resveratrol ? Scientific studies indicate that resveratrol has a wide range of potentially important physiological activities. It can function as:

?a potent antioxidant<Br> ?an inhibitor of tumor initiation, promotion, and progression<Br> ?an inhibitor of cycloxygenase, a tumor promoting enzym<Br> ?an anti-inflammatory agent<Br> ?a phytoestrogen

Quercetin ? The biological effects of quercetin and its derivatives have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help protect against many different diseases. Studies suggest that quercetin and its derivatives protect low-density lipoproteins from oxidation, thus preventing atherosclerotic plaque formation. By inhibiting platelet aggregation and promoting vascular smooth muscle relaxation, these flavonoids also may prevent stroke, hypertension, and other damaging cardiovascular events. In addition, they have anti-viral and anti-cancer actions as well.

The preponderance of scientific evidence indicates that a diet rich in flavonoids supports good health. Because many people consume insufficient amounts of flavonoid rich foods, and because cooking causes significant losses of flavonoids (35-82%), supplementation seems appropriate.

Green Tea Extract ? The health benefits of green tea have been recognized for centuries, and scientific studies have confirmed the benefits of drinking this popular beverage. Both in vitro and animal studies suggest green tea and green tea extracts elicit a broad range of health promoting effects, particularly in supporting cardiovascular health and protecting against infections and cancer. Current studies indicate that a daily tea intake of 6 ? 10 cups is required to obtain benefits. Because it may be difficult for many of us to drink so much tea every day, supplementing with tea extracts makes sense.

Glutathione is produced by our bodies and is the key antioxidant. It protects us from many types of pollution. It protects our DNA and RNA from free radical damage. Glutathione also protects us against cellular damage caused by heavy metals, cigarette smoke, pesticides, benzene, solvents, dyes, phenols, nitrates, and smog.

According to a study done at the University of California glutathione is poorly absorbed when taken orally. Therefore our diet, or taking a glutathione supplement, cannot provide us with sufficient quantity. So how do we get it? A glyconutrient complex has been scientifically shown to increase glutathione levels in healthy tissue. It will increase glutathione levels by 50% when tissues have been subjected to direct toxic chemical assault.

This fact was demonstrated in a study done by three different laboratories simultaneously, each being unaware of what the other labs were doing. The final result clearly demonstrated that this glyconutrient complex raises glutathione ? not just in healthy tissue, but also in response to a toxic chemical assault.

It is apparent that supplementation with single nutrients may not suffice, and that whole food extracts containing a variety of naturally occurring nutrients are preferred. Independent studies have shown that a synergistic combination of the above ingredients results in a 36% increase in serum antioxidant activity.

If you would like to receive more information on antioxidants please e-mail Dr. Enders at glycodoc@goldenkeys.net. Please put &quot;antioxidants&quot; in subject line.

Discovering MSM

MSM is a wonderful supplement with a low toxicity rating that naturally occurs in the body and targets a host of issues. Some of the problems it may help with include hair, skin, nails, muscle fatigue, allergies and scar tissue trouble. I have also heard of people with cancer utilizing the supplement. Once upon a time, there was a big craze about DSMO and how it helped arthritis sufferers. It has been observed that the solvent DSMO converts to MSM when it hits the blood stream. Taking MSM may be equivalent to using DSMO but without the side effects and problems that come with utilizing an industrial grade solvent.

What Does it Do?

Some of the patents I read on MSM suggest that MSM basically supplies the body with a usable form of sulfur, which can be used to repair connective tissues, aid in joint problems and potentially energize a system that pulls allergens out of our bodies. Studies have been conducted on MSM that seem to indicate that there has been a benefit to animals with joint problems.

Scar Tissue

If you have significant scarring, MSM may help to reduce the visible scarring. It may help to give the skin the sulfur it needs to help in restructuring; it may also help in preventing scars. So if you have a burn or jagged cut, it might be helpful to take MSM during the healing process.

The sulfur is useful in the process that is used to build skin; one theory is that if there isn't enough sulfur available the process is modified resulting in scar tissue. Hence, if you have enough sulfur, you could avoid scarring as tissue regrows, according to that theory.

The Best Part of DSMO

Remember the craze about DSMO a few years back? It was widely used for arthritis and joint problems. DSMO is a solvent and has some potential side affects. In addition, it doesn't smell good and you have to wait for it to dry. It is an industrial grade solvent, so it is not very practical to use. Research has shown that DSMO is converted into MSM when it touches the blood stream. With MSM, you can get the benefits of DSMO without the potential side effects and problems.

Usable Form of Sulfur

How does MSM work? It provides a usable form of sulfur to the body, which is beneficial in a variety of different ways. In the case of allergies, there is a protein in your body that is used for removing allergens and free radicals and "junk" from your system. If there is not enough sulfur in your body, this great system is inhibited from working in an effective manner. Give your body a usable form of sulfur and this system becomes much more effective.

Safe for Consumption?

MSM may be safe for consumption, but I don't know that the FDA has officially labeled it as safe for consumption as of yet. We do know that it is found naturally in foods such as coffee, tea, milk and eggs as well as green leafy vegetables. MSM does naturally occur in the body and it is not considered toxic and may be comparable to water in its toxicity.

If you are concerned about dosages of MSM, refer to the directions on the labeling and packaging that MSM comes in. I used to take 1,000 mg. two times a day, with no side affects.

My experience with MSM was one of increased energy. That is, of course, a subjective experience, but it was very real to me. Another benefit to MSM is that it is supposed to make you recover faster from working out. It might do that by getting rid of the waste products inside the muscle quicker, this allows the soreness to disappear.

Get More Information

To find out more from a truly worthy source, go to any technical library and read the patent research on MSM. There are actually several patents associated with MSM and I gained a great deal from taking the time to read them.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose or suggest treatment for any health condition. Please consult a health care professional if you have or suspect you have any health related item for proper diagnoses and treatment.

Dave Snape is a health, fitness and wellness enthusiast. His website is <a target="_new" href="http://tobeinformed.com/">http://tobeinformed.com</a>

GABA: An Inexpensive, Natural, and Effective Way to Increase HGH

Suppose you can turn back the hands of time to 10 years ago. You would look younger, have more energy, and be slimmer. HGH (Human Growth Hormone) is a chemical produced in the pituitary gland of the brain. HGH is reported to decline starting at the age of 25. Some of the many benefits of increasing this hormone in the body are:

o Lose fat, gain muscle

o Increase energy level

o Enhance sexual performance

o Increase cardiac output

o Remove wrinkles

o Eliminate cellulite

o Increase memory retention

o Improve sleep quality

o Improve skin elasticity

o Increase exercise endurance

o Increase bone mass

HGH supplements can cost from $49.95 all the way up to several hundred dollars for a one month supply. Recently, an amino acid called GABA has been shown to help increase HGH when taken internally. You can enjoy the benefits of HGH without paying a high price.

What is GABA?

GABA (Gamma aminobutyric acid) is a gamma neurotransmitter (A neurotransmitter is a substance that transmits nerve impulses across a synapse. A synapse is a region where nerve impulses are transmitted across axon terminals.).

It's in high concentration in the hypothalamus, so it plays a significant role in hypothalamic-pituitary function. The pituitary gland is the master endocrine gland affecting all hormonal functions of the body including Growth Hormone.

A study from the First Medical Clinic at the University of Milan in Milan, Italy showed "In all of the 19 subjects studied, compared with 18 controls, plasma growth hormone levels were significantly increased (above 5 mg/ml) by acute oral administration of 5 g of GABA "

The hypothalamus is a region of the posterior section of the brain and is the regulating center for visceral (instinctive) Functions such as sleep cycles, body temperature, and the activity of the pituitary gland.

There have been literally hundreds of clinical studies on GABA and numerous studies on GABA's ability to elevate growth hormone levels.

This study showed over a 5 1/2 fold increase in plasma growth hormone levels 90 minutes after GABA administration. That is a significant increase unmatched by any other nutritional means.

GABA's growth hormone elevating effects is said to rival that of potent pharmaceutical compounds.

Maximum Results

To benefit from GABA's ability to increase growth hormone levels and fat burning capabilities, you can start by taking 3-5 mg per day. HGH is released within 90 minutes of falling asleep so if GABA is being used for fat loss it should be taken immediately before bed. Taking GABA before bedtime will also help improve sleep cycles leading to more restful and also has a calming affect. If GABA is being used for it's calming properties or any of it's other positive benefits it may be taken anytime.

The powdered form of GABA is ideal since it will be absorbed in the quickest amount of time. Mix the powder in 8 ounces of water or juice. This dosage should be taken at night, 30 minutes before bedtime.

Where can you purchase GABA?

You can find GABA at your local health food store or vitamin store. Be sure to purchase the powdered form fro immediate absorption. You may have also seen the ads that are popping up all over the internet for a product called Dream Shape (http://www.cara2.com). This product is 100% pure GABA powder. They offer a free 2 week trial size of Dream Shape. If you decide to continue with the product, then they will send you a month supply every month and charge you $29.95 each month.

You can also get high quality 100% GABA powder at a discount supplement store online. Afforedable Supplements (http://www.afforedable-supplements.com) online store carries several name brand 100% GABA powders at a substantial discount. Their prices range from $13.95 - 16.95 per 1 month supply.

GABA is a great addition to any weight loss and diet program. The added benefit of the anti-aging affects of increased HGH levels is a definite plus.

About The Author

Danielle Sims explored her library of alternative health, herbal books, and aromatherapy books and created a blueprint for making her own body wrap formulas at home. For more informationvisit Danielle's website <a href="http://www.wrapyourselfslim.com" target="_new">http://www.wrapyourselfslim.com</a>.

<a href="mailto:links@wrapyourselfslim.com">links@wrapyourselfslim.com</a>

PhytoNutrients

We have all heard that it is important to eat fruits and vegetables everyday. Some of us actually do eat the minimum recommended servings. However science has discovered that consuming increased amounts can provide even greater health benefits.

The value of fruits and vegetables goes beyond that of the vitamins and minerals they contain. The discovery of a class of micronutrients (phytonutrients) is largely why major health agencies recommend a minimum of five different fruits and vegetables daily. Phytonutrients are not essential for life, but they appear to be essential for OPTIMAL HEALTH and LONGEVITY.

Phytochemicals are compounds that exist in plants to protect them from the sunlight and affect human beings and other mammals in a number of beneficial ways. The more Phytochemicals you add to your diet, the greater the degree of health protection you can enjoy. People who eat large quantities of fruits and vegetables have reduced risks of cancer. A lifelong diet of phytochemicals plays an important role in health and longevity.

CRUCIFERUS VEGETABLES

When it comes to fighting cancer, cruciferous vegetables may be the real champs. These plant micronutrients work by speeding up the production of enzymes, especially in the liver, with which our bodies convert toxic, mutagenic (cancer causing) chemicals into less harmful substances. The Journal of the National Cancer Institute proclaimed that cruciferous vegetables substantially lowered the risk of prostate cancer in men. Various studies also suggest a protective role in cervical, uterine and breast cancers in women.

It is important to know which fruits and vegetables contain these important phytochemicals. The National Cancer Institute recognizes the following twelve (12) fruits and vegetables important for their phytonutrient content: pineapple, papaya, turnips, carrots, tomatoes, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, garlic, and onions.

Phytochemicals concentrated or prepared in such a way as to likely have therapeutic effects are generally referred to as &quot;nutraceuticals&quot;. According to one source, twenty (20) heads of cabbage, juiced and dehydrated, will fit into 0ne (1) capsule of cabbage powder.

It is difficult for most adults to eat a variety of all twelve (12) fruits and vegetables on a daily basis. What about your children? Every parent knows how difficult it can be to get children to eat the right foods that support healthy growth. This requirement becomes especially difficult when it comes to making sure they snack on nutritious foods, instead of high calorie sweets and other &quot;junk&quot; foods.

A Texas based company has recently developed an innovative product for children. Delicious, chewy pectin &quot;gummi-bears&quot; that contain green tea, fruits and vegetables, the ideal snack to help children stay healthy and grow properly.

To learn more about the benefits of phytonutrients go to http://www.glycoscience.org. For information on the children's supplement, e-mail Dr. Enders at dr.dkenders@sbcglobal.net, with &quot;gummi-bears&quot; in subject line.

Dr. David K. Enders is a 1973 graduate of the Palmer College of Chiropractic. He served four years in the U.S. Air Force as a medic before entering college. Dr. Enders has studied nutrition for 30 years and has had several articles on nutrition published in professional journals. After completing a Clinical Teaching Residency at Palmer College of Chiropractic he moved to the Chicago area, where he now provides nutritional counseling. His web site is: <a target="_new" href="http://www.OptimalHealth.TopChiro.com">http://www.OptimalHealth.TopChiro.com</a>

Zma Fuel

Zma is a unique combination of vitamins and minerals that impact positively on athletic performance. Zma is available in supplement form, and zma is readily absorbed by the system. Zma fuel utilizes zinc monomethionine, magnesium aspartate and B6 combined. Zma is an anabolic mineral formula scientifically designed, and zma contains only natural products.

The synergistic combination of zinc and magnesium in zma is proven to enhance healthy hormone production, resulting in increased strength and muscle power. Clinical tests reveal that the ingredients in zma fuel can increase endurance and testosterone levels, as well as promote a restful sleep which is important for athletes. Zma can be taken before bedtime, resulting in a deeper and more peaceful sleep. With zma intake the muscle cramping usually associated with sport is reduced considerably, when supplementing the diet with zma fuel.

Zma enhances and improves the body's healing ability, a benefit found in zma fuel supplements. Zma users can expect a 2.5 times greater muscle strength on average. This varies, and the more physically strong you are before taking zma supplements, the better your results on zma fuel will be. A study conducted on a group of college football players which monitored the effects of zma on the system, proved very interesting.

The football players taking zma fuel supplements combined with magnesium aspartate showed an increase of free testosterone levels by 43% more than the group on placebos! The muscle power of the players using zma increased 250% more than those who didn't use a zma fuel supplement. There is impressive scientific evidence behind zma fuel and scores of clinical tests have been conducted on zma. Results show that zma really does work and zma fuel lives up to its claims.

Zinc is a micro mineral which is involved with hormone actions including growth hormones, estrogen, insulin and testosterone. The zinc found in zma is necessary for many enzymatic actions. Those involved in physical fitness have a greater need for zinc and can replenish it with zma fuel. As it can be taken by men or women and has no adverse side effects, zma can benefit all athletes including beginners.

The B6 vitamin (pyridoxine) present in zma is involved with protein synthesis. In coenzyme form, the B6 vitamin in zma is involved with many enzymes as well as the metabolism of amino acids. Zma with B6 can free up carbohydrate energies and zma will also lessen the actions of cortisol and other catabolic steroids. The testosterone to cortisol ratio is boosted by zma fuel's B6, resulting in increased muscle strength.

Because zinc and magnesium are easily depleted from the body, supplementing with zma can elevate these testosterone levels. Athletic studies show that many athletes have a zinc deficiency, which can be corrected by taking zma. After participating in regular and intense exercise, zinc and magnesium levels decrease considerably. This deficiency results in a loss of strength and libido, easily replaced with zma.

Copyright 2005 Health-Focus

Further resources offering <a target="_new" href="http://www.health-focus.biz/health/zma/zma"> Zma Fuel information.

Take Back Your Life 3

In parts one and two of this series, titled &quot;Take Back Your Life&quot; and &quot;Take Back Your Life 2&quot;; we discussed the importance of proper cell function and the necessity of having and maintaining a balanced endocrine system as they relate to wellness. Here in part 3, we shall examine why vitamins and minerals, including certain trace minerals are absolutely necessary to further insure and maintain a state of wellness and optimum health.

Fresh foods have, in the past, been the main source that provided vitamins and minerals essential to the properly functioning, healthy human body. These nutrients, naturally occurring in some fresh fruits and vegetables, can and have, in the past given our bodies what was needed for health and vitality. Today, however, because of modern farming, harvesting, storage, and food processing methods, our formally nutrient rich food sources contain lower levels of some vitamins and minerals for supporting and maintaining good health. We still need to eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables in our daily food consumption, but we also need to complement that dietary habit with adequate, high quality, food formed vitamin and mineral supplements in order to insure that our healthy, active lifestyles which include proper diet and exercise are contributing to the desired state of optimal health.

Today, nutritionists remind us that we need to eat 5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables including a healthy balance of dairy products, lean meats, and whole grains. But with modern methods of processing whereby our foods are boiled, microwaved, canned, frozen, refined, pasteurized, and laced with additives intended to help preserve them, our fresh fruits and vegetables are lower in vitamins and minerals today than they were even 30 years ago. One example from a recent study reported that two peaches would have supplied the current RDA of vitamin A for adult women in 1951. Today, a woman would have to eat almost 53 peaches to meet her daily requirements! These losses are due, primarily to the fact that food science has focused on the issues of mass production, visual appearance, and physical features that motivate people to buy rather than nutrient content. The average fruit or vegetable travels 1,500 to 2,500 miles from the farm to your plate. They are grown, harvested, stored, and handled with this in mind as priority of waste and product loss before being sold, trump any concerns for nutrient content and health benefits. There are extensive losses of many important nutrients during all stages of food production as our foods move from the farms to our tables to be eaten. Therefore we must supplement our diets with high quality food formed vitamins and minerals in order to achieve the health benefits that we desire.

Health is defined in Stedman's medical dictionary as a state of normal functioning without evidence of disease or abnormality. That means feeling good, being symptom free, having all organ systems apparently functioning normally, no evidence of disease, and enough energy to do what we want to do. The lifestyle choices that we make are contributing factors in the quest for optimal health. Choices can be made that will have a major impact on our health. These choices include lifestyle, diet and nutrition. This is why it is highly recommended that we exercise, eat well, and supplement wisely. To be included in our diets are certain fruits and vegetables that help our bodies fend off disease. Amounts recommended include eating 5 to 9 varied servings of fruits and vegetables every day. It is further recommended that these food servings include cruciferous vegetables, citrus fruit, dark leafy vegetables and yellow/orange/red vegetables with three different colors per day. The vast majority of people in Western countries do not eat like this, which leads to poor health and desperate disease states. This being the case, if we will not eat the ideal diet, for whatever reason, it becomes absolutely necessary that we supplement our diets, with whole food based supplements. Isolated synthetics will not do the trick. Food formed vitamins and minerals as close to that found in Nature are best.

"Vita", the Latin word for "life", is the root of "vitamin", the name given to certain nutrients identified as essential to life. Certain minerals have also been shown to be vitally important to human health. Vitamins and minerals are micronutrients that work together with enzymes to facilitate the chemical reactions involved in virtually every process in the body. Shortage of necessary vitamins or minerals can block critical functions. A certain level of intake of specific vitamins and minerals is required for optimal health. Micronutrient deficiencies in the diets of many people, I believe, contribute to many of our disease conditions that exist today. And because of this widely held association, I cannot think of anyone who would not benefit from this type of supplementation to their daily diet. Daily supplementation is certainly very important to help avoid the risks to our health that are associated with poor diet. But, be careful! Not all vitamin and mineral supplements are created equal. There are vast differences between brands. Experts have learned that taking too much of certain vitamins is not healthy and can actually cause health problems. Ratios of one ingredient to another can also make a significant difference in how well any vitamin product will work. Be sure to get a comprehensive multivitamin and mineral supplement that is formulated to give you what you need and that is food formed so that your body may recognize and utilize these beneficial nutrients. And above all else remember to drink plenty of pure, enhanced water, move your body, eat well, and supplement wisely so that you can take back your life.

To read more about why Steve is so passionate about moving toward wellness and how you can head that way through a healthy lifestyle, that includes proper vitamin and mineral support supplementation, visit <a target="_new" href="http://steve.myglycostore.com/go/glycentials">http://steve.myglycostore.com/go/glycentials</a>

Nutritional Supplement - The Good Food, Bad Food Myth

Will common sense ever prevail? We've all seen stories on the news about a new miracle food. &quot;Eat more carrots and your eyesight will improve,&quot; or &quot;Eating raspberries reduces heart disease, cancer, etc...&quot; and what about the reports on wine and alcohol consumption? Is a glass of wine good for your health or bad? It is easy for physicians and the news media to describe foods as good or bad, but most nutritionists realize there are no such things - only good diets and bad diets. Regardless of whether the news reports are based on fact or fiction, what's important to realize is that no single food will bring you good health or destroy your health.

Unfortunately people persist in classifying foods as healthy or unhealthy. Relying on various media and advertising adds to the confusion as terminology used implies that a food is either 'good' or 'bad' based on which term is used to describe the food. For example, 'starch is bad because it makes you fat', but 'complex carbohydrates are good because they contain fiber and take longer to digest'. Look up starch in a nutrition textbook and you'll find out that it is defined as a complex carbohydrate. Here's another one, 'calories are bad because they make you fat'; 'energy is good because it gives you stamina to finish your activities'. The reality is that a calorie is a unit used to measure energy; the same way inches or miles measure distance.

HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Classifying a food or nutrient as 'good' or 'bad' and reducing concepts in nutrition to the most simple terms is usually not going to give you a correct answer. These oversimplifications are not only incorrect, but in the long run detract from achieving balanced nutrition.

Although nutrition and diet shouldn't be oversimplified, it also doesn't need to be rocket science either. A good diet is about sensible choices and choosing foods that are nutrient dense. The more nutrients you can include in your diet the more balanced your nutrition will be. You can achieve balanced nutrition most easily by including a wide variety of foods in your diet and choosing appropriate, high-quality nutritional supplements.

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How to compare supplements at <a target="_new" href="http://www.nutritional-supplement-4u.com">http://www.nutritional-supplement-4u.com</a>

Nutritional Supplements: The Amazing Benefits of Vitamin E

The real benefits of Vitamin E may surprise you. First of all, what is Vitamin E? Vitamin E is not one nutrient but actually a group of eight nutrients known as tocopherols and tocotrienols. Each one of these groups is further broken down into alpha, beta, gamma and delta.

Alpha-tocopherol is the most active and common form. This is the form most often found in vitamin supplements. This is also the only form of Vitamin E given an RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance). Folks who eat lots of fruits and vegetables and not much fat in their diet, probably don't get their RDA of alpha-tocopherol. Although alpha-tocopherol is the only Vitamin E component given an RDA, Gamma tocopherol is an important component as well.

Vitamin E is an oil soluble vitamin and is stored by your body.

<B>Benefits of Vitamin E and What It Does For You</B>

What does Vitamin E do? Vitamin E acts as what's called an antioxidant. If you've read the section of my site on <a target="_new" href="http://www.health-supplements-advisor.com/index.html">Health Supplements</a>, you've no doubt read about what an antioxidant does. If not we can review quickly.

The cells of your body are under a lot of stress... oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when highly unstable molecules called free radicals roam freely throughout your body. Free radicals are a by-product of not only the normal metabolic processes of your cells but also your environment. Things such as air pollution, sun exposure, ozone, nitrous oxide (from auto exhaust), cigarette smoke, alcohol consumption and so on.

Free radicals damage cell membranes and can result in changes to your cells that cause chronic diseases down the road. When your cells are being damaged by these free radicals, we say your cells are experiencing oxidative stress... and one of the benefits of Vitamin E is that it is an antioxidant and can significantly neutralize the free radicals that cause oxidative stress.

<B>Benefits of Vitamin E and Heart Disease</B>

Does Vitamin E aid in the prevention of heart disease? Well, the jury's still out on this one. Theoretically, the benefits of Vitamin E and its ability to significantly reduce the progression of atherosclerotic plaque (buildup on the inside of your artery walls), says yes, without a doubt.

An article in the Journal of the American Medical Association says so also. Using angiography, a correlation was found between taking Vitamin E supplements and a reduction in coronary artery atherosclerosis. Remember the above benefits of Vitamin E and how Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant? Well this is the same mechanism.

As Jeffrey Blumberg, Ph.D., F.A.C.N. of Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts states "... surveys of over 200,000 people in different communities around the world have provided compelling evidence that diets high in vitamin E and/or use of vitamin E supplements reduce the risk of heart disease."

Dr. Blumberg stresses the importance of making the distinction between what he calls primary and secondary prevention. Primary prevention focuses on groups of healthy people and testing for new heart disease against different levels of Vitamin E intake over many years. Secondary prevention is taking groups of folks with existing heart disease and testing for a short duration using Vitamin E supplements along with placebos.

It is felt that the results of some secondary trials (the ones that claim no beneficial relationship between Vitamin E and heart disease) may be skewed by other factors in these heart patients such as smoking and diabetes. Also the drugs that these folks are taking along with the Vitamin E supplements could also affect the outcome of the research.

Concerning the benefits of Vitamin E, Dr. Blumberg goes on to state, "In thinking about the value of vitamin E supplementation, particularly in primary prevention, it is important to appreciate not only its potential benefit in heart disease but also in a variety of other chronic diseases associated with oxidative stress, including age-related macular degeneration, Alzheimer's disease, cancer, cataract, diabetes, Parkinson's disease, and rheumatoid arthritis."

Two other studies were reported on in the New England Journal of Medicine, the Nurses' Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-up Study. These two studies followed thousands of women and men. The researchers found a significant reduction in heart disease of the folks taking Vitamin E supplements.

<B>Benefits of Vitamin E and Alzheimer's</B>

Can Vitamin E help cut your risk of developing Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia? New studies seem to suggest so. A recent report found in the Archives of Neurology showed that vitamin E taken together with Vitamin C had significant benefits.

The study's author, Peter Zandi PhD with Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health stated, "These results are extremely exciting. Our findings suggest that vitamins E and C may offer protection against Alzheimer's disease when taken together in the higher doses available from individual supplements."

Another study also in the Archives of Neurology found that Vitamin E intake may slow the progression of cognitive decline as we grow older.

How does Vitamin E do this? Well, remember some of the benefits of Vitamin E cited above and how Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant? It is widely accepted that oxidative stress plays a role in the bringing about Alzheimer's. And by its antioxidant properties, Vitamin E is able to reduce this oxidative stress to the cells of your brain.

<B>More Benefits of Vitamin E</B>

Because of Vitamin E's antioxidant properties, it has been shown effective in helping treat osteoarthritis. Vitamin E has also shown to be helpful in preventing the formation of cataracts in your eyes. And it might also help in protecting your eyes against ARMD (age related macular degeneration) as you get older. ARMD is the major cause of blindness in the U.S.

In folks with diabetes, Vitamin E and other antioxidants have been effective in controlling blood sugar levels. There has also been found to be a relationship between low levels of Vitamin E and an increased risk of getting diabetes.

Vitamin E has also been found to reduce hot flashes for women going through menopause. And for male smokers, it has been shown to reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

<B> Is Vitamin E Safe </B>

A recent article appearing in the Council for Responsible Nutrition stated that Vitamin E is safe for folks in the general population at doses up to 1600 IU daily. With most of the daily doses you'll find out there being in the 200 - 400 IU range there should be no concern.

You can learn much more than just the <a target="_new" href="http://www.health-supplements-advisor.com/facts-about-vitamin-e.html">facts about Vitamin E</a> at our content rich site called <a target="_new" href="http://www.health-supplements-advisor.com/index.html">Health Supplements Advisor</a>.

Recommended Supplements for Weight Loss

There is a lot of confusion about weight loss supplementation, how to use, what to use and how much to use. In this article you will find the pick of today's latest supplements on the market and armed with the right information you will have the knowledge to burn more body fat and have more energy for the things you want to do.

Remember that supplements do not replace proper diet and exercise but when used with the right training and weight loss program may help you make faster progress towards your weight loss goals.

Please remember that before taking on a training and supplementation program and if you are on medication always consult with your physician first. Now lets have a look at the supplements:

Chitosan

Chitosan is a fibre whose fat-binding ability is so strong that it can be used effectively to promote weight loss. The most important health property of dietary fibre is its ability to bind to fat molecules in the digestive system, which in turn are excreted.

Since Chitosan can't be digested, the fat absorbed is passed out of the body. Together with a low fat eating plan and regular exercise, Chitosan is a great choice for keeping off those unwanted pounds. Try taking 15 minutes before a meal to inhibit fat absorption.

Dosage: as per the bottle

Ma Huang

A popular Asian herb that has been used for over 5,000 years is Ma Huang; it was first used by the ancient Chinese people as a decongestant.

The active ingredient is ephedrine, which has been shown to contain powerful fat burning characteristics which can enhance thermogenesis, the body's burning of fat for energy.

It also increases the basal metabolic rate, which allows your body to burn calories faster and more efficiently. By mobilizing stored fat and carbohydrate reserves, Ma Huang works to reduce your appetite and aids in helping you lose excess weight.

Try combining with White willow bark and Guarana as the fat burning and muscle sparring effects of this stack are fantastic.

Dosage 300mgs twice a day.

Zhi Shi

Citrus aurantium is commonly referred to as bitter orange. Zhi shi is the immature dried fruit of citrus aurantium. Zhi Shi may be more thermogenic than ephedrine and has fewer side effects.

It can also be very effective stimulating the metabolism (this stimulation causes an increase in the metabolic rate which burns calories) without any undesirable effects on the nervous system. Citrus aurantium may also act as an appetite suppressant.

Try combining with caffeine, white willow bark, cayenne and green tea for greater thermogenic action.

Dosage 300mg three times a day.

Pyruvate

Pyruvate is naturally occurring substance found in weight loss and herbal 'fat-burners'.

Studies have show that using diet pills containing pyruvate while restricting caloric intake slightly and participating in strength training will boost your metabolism resulting in weight loss.

Pyruvate produces ATP, which makes it a great supplement to take with creatine and ALC (Alpha Lipioc Acid) comes in Sodium and Calcium, try Calcium.

Dosage 1gram to 5grams per day.

Bcaas

Branched Chain Amino Acids, are essential amino acids, which means that the body by itself cannot produce them so sufficient quantities must be obtained from supplementation.

The three Bcaas (Valine, Leucine, and Isoleucine) make up approximately 70 percent of the amino acids in the body. Bcaas are unique in that they are utilized directly by muscle tissue during long workouts.

Since your body only has a limited number of these amino acids, it can be forced to break down lean muscle tissue when dietary sources aren't meeting your needs.

Bcaas can be found in most good protein powders these days.

Dosage 5 grams - 15 grams

Ribose

Ribose is a simple sugar that occurs naturally in all living cells and in one of the simplest molecules used by the body to build and restore energy.

Ribose is very important for the production of ATP. ATP is the major source of energy used by cells including muscle tissue for normal function. Ribose has been shown to increase muscular levels, boost endurance, and promote recovery! It is also an important way to increase your energy levels.

Another new supplement which looks very promising.

Follow dosage on the bottle.

Nacn-Acetyl-Cysteine

Nac is a powerful anti-oxidant and its ability to neutralize free radicals helps slow down the ageing process.

Nac has all the properties of l-cysteine and may be the most cost effective way to boost peptide levels in the body. Nac has been shown to safeguard against a variety of toxic hazards such as cigarette smoke, auto exhaust, and certain herbicides.

It can also play a beneficial role in prostate and respiratory conditions. Surprisingly, it is more effective than supplementing with cysteine, methionine, or even glutathione itself! A very good cost effective anti-oxidant.

Follow dosage on the bottle.

Multi-Vitamins and Minerals

Multi-vitamin and mineral supplements are perhaps the most important single supplement that can be consumed by bodybuilders and athletes and the first supplement you should buy.

For the human body to perform at its optimum, it must be fed a vast supply of vital nutrients. If the body becomes deficient in just one of these essential vitamins or minerals optimum efficiency and performance declines.

People think that since you can not put on pounds of muscle that they are a waste of time to take them but if your body is deficient in just one of the essential vitamins and minerals you will never reach your full potential. Try and buy the Multis that have the higher potency mineral formulas.

So please remember a supplement is something added to the diet to make up for a nutritional deficiency or imbalance they are not intended to substitute for eating a balanced diet. If they are to be taken at all they should only be used to supplement the diet and not replace it.

Gary is the author of several ebooks, including "Maximum Weight Loss in Ten Weeks" - the complete ebook and time-saving solution for burning away unwanted fat, and "Maximum Weight Gain in Ten Weeks" - easy-to-use and follow techniques that serve as a guide to muscle growth without having to "live in the gym".

Visit Gary's website at <a target="_new" href="http://www.maximumfitness.com/">http://www.maximumfitness.com/</a>

The Undercover Vitamin

There is a secret vitamin in the neighborhood, wandering around your body under cover. This "vitamin" has just one single purpose, although some researchers believe he has ulterior motives. He goes by the inconspicuous codename of "D" ? Vitamin D.

Don't be fooled by his clever disguise. D is no vitamin. He's a steroid hormone, slipping through your body under guise of a vitamin. And he doesn't have dozens of functions, like vitamin C or vitamin E, just one vital mission ? to mineralize your bones!

Mineralization is a key objective of every body. Imagine if we all had flabby bones. The world would look like a Salvador Dali nightmare. Vitamin D saves us from having flabby bones.

More importantly, vitamin D saves us from having brittle bones. He prevents us from rickets and osteomalacia by balancing the calcium and phosphorous in our blood. Ooh, that D is a clever one. Not only is he a master of disguises, but he is a master chemist, constantly monitoring, measuring and balancing the mix so it just right to ensure everybody has strong and healthy bones.

Word on the grapevine is that 30% to 40% of hip fractures in elderly people are the result of insufficient vitamin D. So we caught up with D, and managed to slip away with a rare interview transcript:

"D, some of your fans can't get enough of you. What should they do?"

"Get plenty of sun. That is the key. Where the sun touches your skin, that's where I will be."

"But, D, what about people who can't? What about people in the far north, or those who wear head-to-toe clothing or who are stuck indoors?"

"If you find yourself overdressed in a dungeon in Mongolia, get a good multi-vitamin supplement."

"D, that's a wonderful idea."

"Or drink lots of milk, fortified with me, of course. Some breakfast cereals are fortified with me, too. I also hang out in a lot of saltwater fish, like tuna and sardines and herring and salmon. And I love to slip around in the ol' cod liver oil."

"So if we can't get enough sun, milk and fish will do the trick."

"That's right, but be careful about milk products. Not all of them are made with fortified milk. I make no commitment to be there if they are not."

"What about the supplements, D?"

"A good multivitamin supplement should do it for most people. Get a liquid supplement, cause those pills just don't digest. You just end up flushing me down the toilet...ooh, I hate that feeling."

"Yuck."

"And you shouldn't need a specific vitamin D supplement, because it is possible to overdose. And you wouldn't want too much of a guy like me around."

That was all we could slip through the lines. But I think we learned a lot about what it is like to live the life of a secret vitamin. To our hero, vitamin D, we offer our best wishes. May everybody get plenty of vitamin D to keep their bones strong and healthy for many years to come.

About The Author

David Leonhardt runs The Liquid Vitamin Supplements Store: <a href="http://www.vitamin-supplements-store.net" target="_new">http://www.vitamin-supplements-store.net</a>

Learn more about vitamin D: <a href="http://www.vitamin-supplements-store.net/vitamins/vitamin-d.html" target="_new">http://www.vitamin-supplements-store.net/vitamins/vitamin-d.html</a>

<a href="mailto:Info@thehappyguy.com">Info@thehappyguy.com</a>