Functions of Vitamin C, Vitamin C Overdose and Deficiency
also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin which is essential for normal functioning of the body. Unlike most mammals, humans don't have the ability to make their own vitamin C. We must therefore obtain vitamin C through our diet
.Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that is included in a range of skin care
preparations ranging from toners and cleansers to serums, moisturizers and eye creams. It can deliver a range of benefits to skin. Skin care specialists recommend the inclusion of antioxidants in your skin care routine and Vitamin C is one that not only delivers, but that also has significant clinical research to back up its efficacy.Vitamin C plays a vital rule in producing collagen, the key protein in the body's connective tissue including our cartilage, ligaments, and bones. As many skin cream ads say, collagen also controls our skin's elasticity and strength. Without enough collagen, our tissues become so feeble and damaged, that we develop a condition known as Scurvy. Although this condition can be fatal, you're unlikely to develop it with a modern diet.Some of the more common signs of mild Vitamin C Deficiency include weakness, lassitude, swollen gums, nosebleeds and scurvy. Possible reasons which can result in this deficiency include inadequate diet, alcoholism and homelessness. There are some other risk factors which can ultimately result in Vitamin C Deficiency. Babies borne from women who take higher levels of Vitamin C during late pregnancy are two to three times more likely to develop wheezing when they reach two years of age.The use of vitamin C in the prevention/treatment of the common cold and respiratory infections remains controversial, with ongoing research. For cold prevention , more than 30 clinical trials including over 10,000 participants have examined the effects of taking daily vitamin C. Overall, no significant reduction in the risk of developing colds has been observed. Higher levels of Vitamin C are needed when under environmental stress such as trauma, fever or infection. Full saturation is reached with daily intakes of 200-500 mg per day (in 2-3 divided doses). This is a water-soluble protein, and anything in excess is excreted by the body. Vitamin C Overdose can cause diarrhea, gas, or stomach upset. Other side effects could be stomach cramps, nausea, and diarrhea, and an increased risk of developing kidney stones.During the therapeutic use of this vitamin, the dosage is usually increased significantly, but the toxicity level must be kept in mind.The average (Recommended dietary allowance) RDA is 60-80mg, per day. For adolescents it is 80 mg, 75 mg for adults, 100 mg during pregnancy and 150 mg during lactation.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/supplements-and-vitamins-articles/functions-of-vitamin-c-vitamin-c-overdose-and-deficiency-628547.html
Sunday, November 9, 2008
FUNCTIONS OF VITAMIN C
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Herbal Solutions for Panic Attacks by: Mary Ann Copson
If you have ever had a panic attack, you don't look forward to another one. The "fight-or flight" response in your body is involuntarily turned on and your nervous system signals your adrenal glands to start pumping out stress hormones to get you ready to either run away or turn and fight. Your muscles tense, your heartbeat speeds up, and your breathing becomes more rapid. You might feel like you are smothering, claustrophobic or you may experience an urgency to get away. On top of that, you may get hot flashes, sweating, and/or chills and trembling, plus numbness, tingling sensations, dizziness, and nausea. You become overwhelmed by an extreme sense of fear and impending disaster and you lose your ability to think calmly and clearly while experiencing a distorted sense of time and a feeling of unreality. In the face of a physical threat, accident, or natural disaster, this type of response is normal and can be life-saving. But panic attacks that occur unexpectedly in the presence of normal events can be debilitating. They may happen with no forewarning, at any time of the day or night, and last several seconds or more than half an hour. The triggers for panic attacks are unpredictable. Most panic attacks are set off by some minor or major stressor. But panic attacks also can be triggered by changes in emotions, or as a response to certain drugs, foods, allergies (including hidden food allergies), hypoglycemia, and illnesses. A panic attack is an example of an acute anxiety disorder and can affect teens to middle-agers and beyond. Women are reported to experience panic attacks twice as often as men but some believe that is only because men are more reticent to report panic attacks. Recent studies point to a complex set of causes and panic attacks are regarded as a treatable psychobiological condition (i.e. having both psychological and biological causes). Successful resolution of panic attacks requires an integrated, multi-modality approach. Even though panic attacks are not a simple condition and there are no simple answers for their successful resolution, herbal therapy can be useful as part of an integrated, multi-modality approach. When you experience anxiety, your body releases a set of neurotransmitters called catecholamines, which stimulate your central nervous system and activate your sympathetic nervous system. Sometimes your sympathetic nervous system (the high alert part of your nervous system) can get stuck in the “on” mode leaving you in an ongoing state of anxiety - a fertile ground for panic attacks. A class of herbs called nervines helps to turn off the sympathetic nervous system by gently facilitating the functioning of the parasympathetic nervous system – the part of the nervous system that prompts relaxation - helping us to wind down and come off “high alert”. It is a good idea to experiment with different anti-anxiety herbs before you are in a crisis or panic situation. Try out several herbs in varying doses. Start with a low dose and increase if needed so that you will know how the herb affects you and how to use it when you need it. Some effective herbal nervines to consider using: Oatstraw (Avena sativa) – the green milky tops of oatstraw provide a wonderful soothing, nourishing and gentle herb for frayed and stressed nervous systems. Oatstraw has a restorative effect on an exhausted nervous system reliably strengthening the whole nervous system after prolong stress. Oatstraw has both an immediate effect (useful when experiencing extreme nervousness and anxiety) and a more long-term restorative effect. Oatstraw is well tolerated by even highly sensitive people and is used for nervous debility, stress, weak nerve and energy force, anxiety, depression, exhaustion, and general fatigue. German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla/ Matricaria recutita) – an all time favorite –because it works. Chamomile tones the nervous system, relaxes your muscles and calms nervous digestion. It has mild sedating properties and is not as strong an herbal sedative as valerian or passionflower. However, chamomile is a great option for anxiety in children or teens and for anxiety associated with mild sleep problems. If you are allergic to ragweed, asters, or chrysanthemums you are better off choosing another anti-anxiety herb. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) –has mild sedative properties and is useful in conditions of nervous agitation with sleep problems and digestive complaints. Lemon balm is especially useful for over-anxiety that causes digestive problems such as nausea, bloating, and colic like pains. Traditionally lemon balm was used to lift the spirits and encourage longevity. Lemon balm is a relaxing tonic for anxiety, restlessness, irritability, and mild depression and its actions will quiet the racing heart that often accompanies anxiety. It has mild anti-thyroid effects and is best avoided by people with hypothyroid problems. Skullcap (Scutellaria laterifolia) –tonifies and relaxes the nervous system and is useful for anxiety of all types especially anxiety and irritability that is hormonally based such as premenstrual syndrome. It is a sedative nervine and has mild anti-spasmodic and anti-hypertensive effects. Skullcap is a great herb to use when your anxiety is accompanied by a runaway mind that is stuck on worry. It is tolerated well by most people and has few side effects. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) – one of the most well known anti-anxiety herbs, valerian is a potent herb whose active ingredients, valepotriates, bind to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain (similarly to the drug Valium). The use of valerian does not, however, result in dependence or the development of tolerance but instead tones the nervous system. Valerian can be used to improve the sleep quality and relax both the skeletal and smooth muscles. Valerian should not be used for those with chronic exhaustion, adrenal fatigue, thyroid disorders, and depression as it may increase anxiety, worsen present symptoms, and/or result in excessive restlessness in these conditions. Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) – a strong calming, anti-spasmodic herb that is useful for severe daytime anxiety. Passionflower is also a good choice for middle of the night waking terrors, nightmares, and the onset of sudden anxiety feelings. It acts as a central nervous system depressant giving a calming, relaxing and anti-anxiety effect and is specific for anxiety related to insomnia, muscle tension, restlessness, and nervousness due to worry, overwork, hysteria, or excessive excitement. If you are taking an MAO inhibitor, you should avoid taking passionflower except under supervision. Stress Relief Tea Here is a simple herbal tea mixture that I have found effective in my private practice working with women having mood and energy problems. Mix together equal parts of the following dry herbs: •Oatstraw •Lemon Balm •Skullcap •Nettles •Orange •Chamomile Use 1-2 teaspoons of the mixture and steep covered in 8 oz. of boiling water for 5-10 minutes. The use of herbal nervines as part of an integrative program can help restore a sense of calm and well being, soothe distress, stabilize a confused and overwhelmed energy system, and foster clear thinking. If you are taking anti-anxiety and/or anti-depressant medications or other medications, have a diagnosed condition or illness, are pregnant, breastfeeding, elderly or very young it is important to consult a knowledgeable health care practitioner before using herbs. Consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment of any medical conditions. Copyright (c) 2007 Mary Ann Copson
About The Author
Mary Ann Copson is the founder of the Evenstar Mood & Energy Wellness Center for Women. With Master's Degrees in Human Development and Psychology and Counseling, Mary Ann is a Certified Licensed Nutritionist; Certified Holistic Health Practitioner; Brain Chemistry Profile Clinician; and a Health, Wellness and Lifestyle Coach. Reconnect to your physical, emotional, mental, psychological and spiritual natural rhythms at http://evenstaronline.com/
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Monday, June 23, 2008
Friday, June 20, 2008
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Monday, June 16, 2008
The Best Acne Herbal Treatments by: Darren Brent
No matter your age, acne is a problem that no one wants. The misery of acne is mostly caused by our sebaceous glands producing too much sebum, also known as oil. Due to the over production of oil, the skin pores increase in blockage and bacterial areas. It is the bacteria and increased oil production that causes the acne to form. But natural acne herbal treatments are the first method to try. Knowing how acne happens is one thing, but knowing exactly why is a difficult task at hand when there are several various reasons as to pin pointing each case's cause. Some links believed to be connections are hormonal imbalances, overall eating habits, vitamin deficiency and contentious high levels of stress. Healthy eating habits and lowering stress is the first natural step of acne herbal treatment. There are proven statistics linking the higher level of vitamin A in a person's body shows to be able to lower acne breakouts. Vitamin A lowers the amount of sebum and keratin being produced. Zinc is also a very important vitamin, and for fighting acne, the Zinc is the backing force for the vitamin A to do its job. Natural acne treatments through diet of the most natural fruits and vegetables will help in your holistic being, not just acne. Some other acne herbal treatments are effectively proven and 100% natural acne remedies. Aloe Vera is one of the most effective natural herbal acne herbal treatments today. The Aloe Vera plant contains astringent and anti-bacterial properties which are known to fight bacteria that cause acne. Aloe Vera also contains very important anti-inflammatory properties needed in reducing acne swelling. Another very potent natural acne herbal treatment is Calendula. Although not as well known about, Calendula is a very effective acne treatment. Calendula is a skin tissue healer of potential damage from the acne. But Calendula is also a natural anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory completely natural product. Calendula comes in cream, or water base washing formula to cleanse the acne infected skin. The Lavender herb will help reduce the inflammation due to the acne and Lavender also has antiseptic. The Lavender is mixed with a carrier fluid or water should be applied directly to the affected acne areas for exterminating bacteria. Just as the Lavender herb, the Tree Essential Oil must be with water or carrier fluid. Tree Essential Oil also has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and antiseptic properties for the top layer of skin with acne.
About The Author
Darren Brent writes for the http://www.onestoptreatment.com/ We provides information on all aspects of finding Acne Treatment,The information provide by our SKIN CARE EXPERT!. You can find more details and tips about Acne Treatment in our education center.
No matter your age, acne is a problem that no one wants. The misery of acne is mostly caused by our sebaceous glands producing too much sebum, also known as oil. Due to the over production of oil, the skin pores increase in blockage and bacterial areas. It is the bacteria and increased oil production that causes the acne to form. But natural acne herbal treatments are the first method to try. Knowing how acne happens is one thing, but knowing exactly why is a difficult task at hand when there are several various reasons as to pin pointing each case's cause. Some links believed to be connections are hormonal imbalances, overall eating habits, vitamin deficiency and contentious high levels of stress. Healthy eating habits and lowering stress is the first natural step of acne herbal treatment. There are proven statistics linking the higher level of vitamin A in a person's body shows to be able to lower acne breakouts. Vitamin A lowers the amount of sebum and keratin being produced. Zinc is also a very important vitamin, and for fighting acne, the Zinc is the backing force for the vitamin A to do its job. Natural acne treatments through diet of the most natural fruits and vegetables will help in your holistic being, not just acne. Some other acne herbal treatments are effectively proven and 100% natural acne remedies. Aloe Vera is one of the most effective natural herbal acne herbal treatments today. The Aloe Vera plant contains astringent and anti-bacterial properties which are known to fight bacteria that cause acne. Aloe Vera also contains very important anti-inflammatory properties needed in reducing acne swelling. Another very potent natural acne herbal treatment is Calendula. Although not as well known about, Calendula is a very effective acne treatment. Calendula is a skin tissue healer of potential damage from the acne. But Calendula is also a natural anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory completely natural product. Calendula comes in cream, or water base washing formula to cleanse the acne infected skin. The Lavender herb will help reduce the inflammation due to the acne and Lavender also has antiseptic. The Lavender is mixed with a carrier fluid or water should be applied directly to the affected acne areas for exterminating bacteria. Just as the Lavender herb, the Tree Essential Oil must be with water or carrier fluid. Tree Essential Oil also has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and antiseptic properties for the top layer of skin with acne.
About The Author
Darren Brent writes for the http://www.onestoptreatment.com/ We provides information on all aspects of finding Acne Treatment,The information provide by our SKIN CARE EXPERT!. You can find more details and tips about Acne Treatment in our education center.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Cheapest Debt Consolidation Loans For The Conscientious Consumer by: Paul Rogers
To find the cheapest debt consolidation loans you will have to be willing to do a bit of work. You will want to locate the right lender and that can take a bit of time depending on how you go about searching. If you physically plan to go from lender to lender, be prepared for quite a journey. You will need to make many appointments with many lenders all within the banks' hours of business. This can make shopping for loans hard if you have to work during those hours. Many employers will not be found of you taking that much time from your job in most cases. Small and large lenders also can require multiple meeting and a longer wait time to be approved and get quotes. If you are looking for loans and want to hear back as quick as possible this may not be the market for you. As much as saving money is, your time, job, and other obligations are important too. There is a quicker alternative when it comes to searching for loans, online lenders. How Online Lenders Can Help You Online lenders cannot only save you money, but also time when searching for loans. You will not have to take time off of work or put off other obligation as with other lender types. The cheapest consolidation loans can be easily found by browsing the Internet at your leisure. You will be able to utilize lender sites to find out what the options are for you. Lenders provide their prospective customers with many helpful tools. You will be able to get free quotes, find links to get your credit score, and get online support for all of your questions. You will also be able to figure out how long and how much you can borrow by using a lender's free loan calculator. These tools can help you figure out all you will need to know before applying for the loan. With online lenders you will find that applying for loans is easy and quick. Just follow the instructions for applying and fill out a quick online application and you are ready to receive quotes. You can apply to many lenders for the cheapest debt consolidation loans or submit your application into a lender pool that will offer you multiple quotes with only one application. You can also expect an answer about the approval or offer within as quick as 24 hours in some cases. Online lenders cut down the physical time it takes to apply and get approval for loans as well as approval time.
About The Author
Paul Rogers writes general finance and loan articles for the Loans UK Online website at http://www.loansukonline.co.uk/
To find the cheapest debt consolidation loans you will have to be willing to do a bit of work. You will want to locate the right lender and that can take a bit of time depending on how you go about searching. If you physically plan to go from lender to lender, be prepared for quite a journey. You will need to make many appointments with many lenders all within the banks' hours of business. This can make shopping for loans hard if you have to work during those hours. Many employers will not be found of you taking that much time from your job in most cases. Small and large lenders also can require multiple meeting and a longer wait time to be approved and get quotes. If you are looking for loans and want to hear back as quick as possible this may not be the market for you. As much as saving money is, your time, job, and other obligations are important too. There is a quicker alternative when it comes to searching for loans, online lenders. How Online Lenders Can Help You Online lenders cannot only save you money, but also time when searching for loans. You will not have to take time off of work or put off other obligation as with other lender types. The cheapest consolidation loans can be easily found by browsing the Internet at your leisure. You will be able to utilize lender sites to find out what the options are for you. Lenders provide their prospective customers with many helpful tools. You will be able to get free quotes, find links to get your credit score, and get online support for all of your questions. You will also be able to figure out how long and how much you can borrow by using a lender's free loan calculator. These tools can help you figure out all you will need to know before applying for the loan. With online lenders you will find that applying for loans is easy and quick. Just follow the instructions for applying and fill out a quick online application and you are ready to receive quotes. You can apply to many lenders for the cheapest debt consolidation loans or submit your application into a lender pool that will offer you multiple quotes with only one application. You can also expect an answer about the approval or offer within as quick as 24 hours in some cases. Online lenders cut down the physical time it takes to apply and get approval for loans as well as approval time.
About The Author
Paul Rogers writes general finance and loan articles for the Loans UK Online website at http://www.loansukonline.co.uk/
Friday, June 13, 2008
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