Dr Romy Block & Dr Arielle Levitan
The value of vitamins is still often questioned today. Much of this is due to medical studies' inability to provide definitive results in their effectiveness. However, many suggests that the problem isn't with the vitamins, but the science behind these studies. One factor is that their effects are highly dependent on the individuals.
Despite these, we can say with confidence that most people are likely to benefit from some form of vitamin supplements that are suitable to them.
Because no matter how balanced your diet, you are probably missing out on some key nutrients.
ELECTROLYTES
Electrolytes are charged particles that hold on to the water that enters your body. Without them, no matter how much water you guzzle, it will be urinated out and you'll remain dehydrated. So be sure to get enough electrolytes like magnesium, sodium & potassium.
DEFICIENCY SYMPTOM
Headache
Hangover
SOURCES
Mineral water
Sports drink
IRON
Your red blood cells use iron to bond with and carry oxygen throughout body. Lack of iron means less oxygen is being circulated. However, our body are sensitive to iron, too much of it can be dangerous too. So be sure to get the right amount.
DEFICIENCY SYMPTOM
Exhaustion
Lethargy
Depression
Confused mind
Hair loss
EXCESSIVE SYMPTOM
Constipation
Dry coughing
RISKED GROUP
Women (due to menstrual period)
Vegetarian
VITAMIN D
The primary source of vitamin D is natural sunlight. So those who live in cold environment, and work long hours indoor are in general lack of it. Sunscreen also prevents body from metabolizing vitamin D. But you can't just pop vitamin D pills, it needs to get stored in body's fat and it is a slow process. So don't skip the sunlight.
DEFICIENCY SYMPTOM
Depression
Winter blues
MAGNESIUM
Magnesium is a central to the cell functionality. It is an important part of nervous system, enabling it to send signals to muscles, telling them when to contract and release. It is especially important for athletes because it is the key to accelerate regeneration of body, bone and muscle.
DEFICIENCY SYMPTOM
Muscular problem
Muscle aches
Cramps
Osteoporosis
Bad sleep
SOURCES
Banana
Nuts
Vegetables
Whole grains
IODINE
Iodine prevents thyroid gland from getting over- or under-stimulated, and allowing it to produce hormones the body needs. Getting the right amount of it is key.
DEFICIENCY SYMPTOM
Goitre
Slow heart rate
Depressed
Tired, cold
Constipation
EXCESSIVE SYMPTOM
Overexcited
Hyperactive
Trouble sleeping
VITAMIN B12
Studies show a clear link between B12 and neurological disorders. It can counteract issues related to memory loss and cognitive impairment.
DEFICIENCY SYMPTOM
Memory deficit
Attention deficit
There are many ways and reasons vitamins might be able to improve our health.
It is important to find the right vitamin and take the appropriate dosage over a period of time to reap the benefits.
Creative Commons CC BY-NC 2014 Foldry, repurposing allowed within limits.
