Smoking is by far the most important risk factor for lung cancer. When people stop smoking their risk decreases but it remains high compared to people who have not smoked; finding ways to reduce this remaining risk is important. A study led by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and published today in JAMA1 shows a reduction in lung cancer risk among people with higher levels of vitamin B6 and methionine. The observed decrease is large, with risk being more than halved in those with high levels of both, and if proven to be causal would suggest ways in which diet could be used to change lung cancer risk. This analysis was funded by the World Cancer Research Fund.
For more information about Vitamin B-12 Shots at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=183
Background
Lung cancer is the most common cancer in the world with an estimated 1.6 million new cases in 2008, representing 1 in 8 of all new cancers. It is also the most common form of cancer death in the world comprising nearly 1 in 5 of all deaths from cancer. Tobacco smoking is responsible for at least 8 out of 10 cases of lung cancer, although many of these occur among people who have stopped smoking but remain at increased risk. Identifying ways to reduce lung cancer risk could have important public health benefits, especially among people who have stopped smoking.
Diet Plays an Important Part in Cancer Risk
Appropriate levels of B-vitamins are vital for the cell to make and maintain DNA and disruption of these processes has been suspected of playing a role in cancer. Foods containing high levels of B-vitamins and related compounds may therefore be important in reducing risk. Compounds that interact closely with B-vitamins include methionine, an essential amino acid, and homocysteine. Vitamin B9 (or folate) can be found in fruits and green leafy vegetables; vitamin B6 is common in fish, meat, potatoes and whole grains; and methionine is present in various seeds, nuts, cereals, fish and meats.
Measuring Intake of B-12 Vitamins as a Marker of Cancer Risk
Estimating vitamin levels taken from blood samples before any disease onset provides a direct measure of vitamin status. This is important for vitamins that come from many food sources and are therefore difficult to measure using questionnaires. It is however only possible to do such studies when blood samples have been collected on many thousands of volunteers who are then followed up to see who develops a cancer and who does not.
Click here for more information about Turbo Trim injections at Derma Health Institute which contain both B-Vitamins and Methionine talked about in this study.
The Largest Ever Study on Diet and Cancer
The EPIC study is the largest, so-called prospective, study of diet and nutrition in the world. Coordinated through IARC and Imperial College London, this study includes questionnaire information on 520,000 European volunteers, 385,000 of whom also gave a blood sample. All participants were free of cancer at the start and were followed up for an average of 5 years.
For more information about Vitamin B-12 Shots at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=183
Showing posts with label injections. Show all posts
Showing posts with label injections. Show all posts
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Nonsurgical Treatments Can Take Years Off Aging Eyes
New York, NY (August 17, 2009) – As one ages, the characteristics of the eyes change in generally predictable ways: the skin thins and becomes less elastic, brows may descend, the upper lid may recede or enlarge, and the bones around the eyes appear more prominent. While surgery has long been the accepted standard and offers significant benefits to many patients, injectable treatments are proving to be a viable option for taking years off the appearance of aging eyes. An article appearing in the current issue of the Aesthetic Surgery Journal, a publication of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), details the use of hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers as a reliable and long-lasting method for improving the eye area.
For more information about Facial Fillers at Derma Health Institute, see:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=176
“In some cases, the addition of volume may provide a better-looking result than traditional surgical procedures,” says Val Lambros, MD, author of the article and a plastic surgeon practicing in Newport Beach, California. “Although the upper lid can be improved with injections, the area we treat is the brow. In some cases, filling in the brow expands the lid skin sufficiently to smooth wrinkles.”
According to Dr. Lambros, adding volume in the brow area can make the eye appear longer and fuller with less upper lid showing, all characteristics of a youthful eye. However, as in all cosmetic procedures, there is no “one size fits all” approach. “These are true aesthetic choices that must be decided through the patient’s consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon,” advises Dr. Lambros.
Since the 1980s, the standard method for volumizing the brow line has been by fat injection. Excellent results can be achieved using this method. The risk with fat injections, however, is that over time some of the fat may not survive. In some cases, the injected fat may actually grow as the patient ages or gains weight, resulting in unevenness in the brow area.
Hyaluronic acid has been used to treat the brow and upper lid since its introduction in 2005, using a technique similar to that of fat injections. Dr. Lambros prefers HA to fat for brow volumizing because he says contouring is easier, and HA is less subject to variability than biologic fillers. In the brow area, HA has been shown to produce long-lasting results, extending beyond two years. In addition, the effects of HA can be reversed immediately, using hyaluronidase (an enzyme that degrades hyaluronic acid), should the patient be displeased with the volumization effect.
When it comes to the eyes, a little can go a long way. “Brow volume procedures should not be overdone; more is not always better,” adds Dr. Lambros. “Most candidates for brow improvement with HA elect to begin treatment with small amounts of product, and are very satisfied with the results.”
Dr. Lambros gives patients the opportunity to preview their final look, a benefit not available to patients undergoing surgery. He creates temporary volume by injecting diluted local anesthetic which is threaded into the brow and molded into shape. If desired, the patient can choose to undergo the procedure immediately following the preview, since the brow is already anesthetized.
The use of injectable fillers in the brow is a complicated process and requires great skill and experience. “Because of its dependency on technique, only qualified injectors and board-certified plastic surgeons should be performing this procedure,” states Renato Saltz, MD, president of the Aesthetic Society. “When performed properly and by appropriate medical professionals, the use of HA fillers is safe, effective, and produces long-lasting results.”
For more information about Facial Fillers at Derma Health Institute, see:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=176
About ASJ
The Aesthetic Surgery Journal is the peer-reviewed publication of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) and is the most widely read clinical journal in the field of cosmetic surgery, with subscribers in more than 60 countries.
For more information about Facial Fillers at Derma Health Institute, see:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=176
“In some cases, the addition of volume may provide a better-looking result than traditional surgical procedures,” says Val Lambros, MD, author of the article and a plastic surgeon practicing in Newport Beach, California. “Although the upper lid can be improved with injections, the area we treat is the brow. In some cases, filling in the brow expands the lid skin sufficiently to smooth wrinkles.”
According to Dr. Lambros, adding volume in the brow area can make the eye appear longer and fuller with less upper lid showing, all characteristics of a youthful eye. However, as in all cosmetic procedures, there is no “one size fits all” approach. “These are true aesthetic choices that must be decided through the patient’s consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon,” advises Dr. Lambros.
Since the 1980s, the standard method for volumizing the brow line has been by fat injection. Excellent results can be achieved using this method. The risk with fat injections, however, is that over time some of the fat may not survive. In some cases, the injected fat may actually grow as the patient ages or gains weight, resulting in unevenness in the brow area.
Hyaluronic acid has been used to treat the brow and upper lid since its introduction in 2005, using a technique similar to that of fat injections. Dr. Lambros prefers HA to fat for brow volumizing because he says contouring is easier, and HA is less subject to variability than biologic fillers. In the brow area, HA has been shown to produce long-lasting results, extending beyond two years. In addition, the effects of HA can be reversed immediately, using hyaluronidase (an enzyme that degrades hyaluronic acid), should the patient be displeased with the volumization effect.
When it comes to the eyes, a little can go a long way. “Brow volume procedures should not be overdone; more is not always better,” adds Dr. Lambros. “Most candidates for brow improvement with HA elect to begin treatment with small amounts of product, and are very satisfied with the results.”
Dr. Lambros gives patients the opportunity to preview their final look, a benefit not available to patients undergoing surgery. He creates temporary volume by injecting diluted local anesthetic which is threaded into the brow and molded into shape. If desired, the patient can choose to undergo the procedure immediately following the preview, since the brow is already anesthetized.
The use of injectable fillers in the brow is a complicated process and requires great skill and experience. “Because of its dependency on technique, only qualified injectors and board-certified plastic surgeons should be performing this procedure,” states Renato Saltz, MD, president of the Aesthetic Society. “When performed properly and by appropriate medical professionals, the use of HA fillers is safe, effective, and produces long-lasting results.”
For more information about Facial Fillers at Derma Health Institute, see:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=176
About ASJ
The Aesthetic Surgery Journal is the peer-reviewed publication of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) and is the most widely read clinical journal in the field of cosmetic surgery, with subscribers in more than 60 countries.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Botox Enhances Your Appearance By Eliminating Wrinkles
You will no doubt have heard of the term Botox treatment used in plastic surgery and for cosmetic purposes. Botox is a procedure that while only having gained popularity recently has been being used by doctors all over the world for the past 15 years. As well as to enhance the appearance of those with the finances to afford it Botox is also being used as the treatment for certain health conditions. This article will examine the process of Botox and look at how it is effective in achieving its intended outcomes.
For more information about Botox Treatments at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=175
The major reason for Botox surgery is to eliminate wrinkles. The theory behind this type of injection is that the chemical once injected, causes the nerve endings to become numb and the muscles being controlled by them to become paralyzed. Why do you want your muscles to be paralyzed you might ask? Because when muscles are paralyzed they are unable to pull tightly to cause wrinkles. Botox injections are primarily administered to the lips, neck, eyes and forehead but can realistically be used on any part of the body.
What most people don’t know however is that Botox injections are also being used to treat certain diseases. There are certain conditions that result from the continual and frequent spasm (or contraction) of certain muscles. Examples of these conditions include Strabismus or cross eye, Dystonia and Blespharospasm. By causing the dulling of small muscles patients of these conditions can begin to notice relief in as little as a few days. Unfortunately for this group the effects of a Botox injection aren’t permanent, but will generally last up to 6 months.
While it has been proven and confirmed by the Food and Drug Administration to be effective, Botox is not a procedure that should be taken lightly. There are potential side effects to having the injection that include nausea, headache, bruising and soreness at the injection site, Ptosis and more. As a curative procedure the chances that these side effects will be outweighed by the benefits of its result are much higher but those who seek Botox for cosmetic reasons need to seek consultation and high consideration before making a decision.
While beginning as a process solely for women, the popularity of Botox is increasing amongst members of both genders. When all is said and done and regardless of the circumstances, Botox treatments do work. Once begun they will have to be renewed every 4 to 6 months and so they represent a long term commitment in terms of time and energy. If you decide Botox is for you and you are willing to make the necessary sacrifices there is no question that you will be happy with the results.
Fo rmore tips on how Botox can enhance your appearance please visit Botox-Procedures.com where you will find helpful information on Botox creams, Botox Risks, Botox doctors, Botox side effects and Botox alternatives.
For more information about Botox Treatments at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=175
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tim_Gorman
For more information about Botox Treatments at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=175
The major reason for Botox surgery is to eliminate wrinkles. The theory behind this type of injection is that the chemical once injected, causes the nerve endings to become numb and the muscles being controlled by them to become paralyzed. Why do you want your muscles to be paralyzed you might ask? Because when muscles are paralyzed they are unable to pull tightly to cause wrinkles. Botox injections are primarily administered to the lips, neck, eyes and forehead but can realistically be used on any part of the body.
What most people don’t know however is that Botox injections are also being used to treat certain diseases. There are certain conditions that result from the continual and frequent spasm (or contraction) of certain muscles. Examples of these conditions include Strabismus or cross eye, Dystonia and Blespharospasm. By causing the dulling of small muscles patients of these conditions can begin to notice relief in as little as a few days. Unfortunately for this group the effects of a Botox injection aren’t permanent, but will generally last up to 6 months.
While it has been proven and confirmed by the Food and Drug Administration to be effective, Botox is not a procedure that should be taken lightly. There are potential side effects to having the injection that include nausea, headache, bruising and soreness at the injection site, Ptosis and more. As a curative procedure the chances that these side effects will be outweighed by the benefits of its result are much higher but those who seek Botox for cosmetic reasons need to seek consultation and high consideration before making a decision.
While beginning as a process solely for women, the popularity of Botox is increasing amongst members of both genders. When all is said and done and regardless of the circumstances, Botox treatments do work. Once begun they will have to be renewed every 4 to 6 months and so they represent a long term commitment in terms of time and energy. If you decide Botox is for you and you are willing to make the necessary sacrifices there is no question that you will be happy with the results.
Fo rmore tips on how Botox can enhance your appearance please visit Botox-Procedures.com where you will find helpful information on Botox creams, Botox Risks, Botox doctors, Botox side effects and Botox alternatives.
For more information about Botox Treatments at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=175
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tim_Gorman
Friday, July 31, 2009
New Survey Reveals High Expectations for Aesthetic Injections
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., July 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Americans aren't willing to give up aesthetic injections and interest is growing, whether as a means to stay competitive in today's job market or simply to maintain a youthful image, the demand and want is strong. At the time of a recent Kelton Research* survey more than 40 percent of respondents were interested in receiving aesthetic botulinum toxin injections within the next six months.(1)
Despite clear interest, many expressed reluctance to having a botulinum toxin injection. In fact, one-third of those who had not yet received the treatment were worried that it would prevent them from being able to make natural facial expressions.(1)
Sixty-three percent of survey respondents who would ever consider receiving botulinum toxin injections cited that a guarantee of natural-looking results would influence their decision, demonstrating a desire for retaining a natural-looking face, and more natural-looking expressions following injection.(1)
Other top factors included more affordable costs, longer-lasting and faster-acting results.(2)
The poll found that of the respondents who had never undergone botulinum toxin injections, 36% said that their concern about no longer having a natural look had prevented them from receiving the treatment in the past.(1) Almost 60 percent of those surveyed who had not ever received an injection stated that they'd be likely to if the cost of treatment was more affordable.(1) And, of the respondents who had botulinum toxin injections, three in ten reported not seeing noticeable results for at least a week(1) and thirty percent of polled respondents said that having immediate results, such as within 24-48 hours, would positively influence their decision to undergo treatment.(2)
According to Florida dermatologist Dr. Susan Weinkle, patients want value and rapid results at a fair price. "My patients are looking for a treatment that will not make them look obvious or overdone and they want these natural looking results fast."
They are in luck: after extensive testing and clinical results, a new Botulinum Toxin A is now on the market. Dysport(TM) has been approved by the FDA for use in the United States for the temporary improvement in the appearance of moderate to severe glabellar lines - the vertical lines between the eyebrows - in adult men and women 65 or younger.
The benefits of Dysport(TM) include:
• Duration - results lasting up to four months
• Demonstrated efficacy with four repeat treatments (proving results following each treatment)
• Demonstrated safety with 12 repeat treatments
• No evidence of neutralizing antibodies
• Clinical trials included both subjects who have and have not previously been treated with a Botulinum Toxin. There was no difference in results among the two groups
•Large patient population - 4,800 treatments in 2,900 patients (with an ethnically diverse population)
*About the 2009 Botulinum Toxin survey:
Sample: 600 U.S. adults ages 25-60 with a household income of $50,000 or more, including 570 females and 300 botulinum toxin users and 300 aware of at least one nonsurgical aesthetic procedure or treatment.(2)
References:
1. Kelton Research. Botulinum Toxin Survey NewsWorthy Analysis. February--March 2009. Data on file, Medicis Pharmaceutical Corporation.
2. Kelton Research. Botulinum Toxin Survey Topline Report. February--March 2009. Data on file, Medicis Pharmaceutical Corporation.
Important Safety Information
Dysport(TM) is an acetylcholine release inhibitor and a neuromuscular blocking agent indicated for the temporary improvement in appearance of moderate to severe glabellar lines associated with procerus and corrugator muscle activity in adult patients.
Botulinum toxin effects may spread beyond the site of local injection to produce systemic symptoms of botulism such as swallowing and breathing difficulties that can occur within hours to weeks of injection. The risk of symptoms is probably greatest in children treated for spasticity, but symptoms can also occur in adults, particularly in those patents who have underlying conditions that would predispose them to these symptoms. In clinical trials, the most frequently reported adverse effects (>2%) are headache, nasopharyngitis and upper respiratory tract infection.
Dysport(TM) is not recommended for children or pregnant women. Re-treatment with Dysport(TM) should be administered no more than every three months.
SOURCE Medicis Aesthetics Inc
Despite clear interest, many expressed reluctance to having a botulinum toxin injection. In fact, one-third of those who had not yet received the treatment were worried that it would prevent them from being able to make natural facial expressions.(1)
Sixty-three percent of survey respondents who would ever consider receiving botulinum toxin injections cited that a guarantee of natural-looking results would influence their decision, demonstrating a desire for retaining a natural-looking face, and more natural-looking expressions following injection.(1)
Other top factors included more affordable costs, longer-lasting and faster-acting results.(2)
The poll found that of the respondents who had never undergone botulinum toxin injections, 36% said that their concern about no longer having a natural look had prevented them from receiving the treatment in the past.(1) Almost 60 percent of those surveyed who had not ever received an injection stated that they'd be likely to if the cost of treatment was more affordable.(1) And, of the respondents who had botulinum toxin injections, three in ten reported not seeing noticeable results for at least a week(1) and thirty percent of polled respondents said that having immediate results, such as within 24-48 hours, would positively influence their decision to undergo treatment.(2)
According to Florida dermatologist Dr. Susan Weinkle, patients want value and rapid results at a fair price. "My patients are looking for a treatment that will not make them look obvious or overdone and they want these natural looking results fast."
They are in luck: after extensive testing and clinical results, a new Botulinum Toxin A is now on the market. Dysport(TM) has been approved by the FDA for use in the United States for the temporary improvement in the appearance of moderate to severe glabellar lines - the vertical lines between the eyebrows - in adult men and women 65 or younger.
The benefits of Dysport(TM) include:
• Duration - results lasting up to four months
• Demonstrated efficacy with four repeat treatments (proving results following each treatment)
• Demonstrated safety with 12 repeat treatments
• No evidence of neutralizing antibodies
• Clinical trials included both subjects who have and have not previously been treated with a Botulinum Toxin. There was no difference in results among the two groups
•Large patient population - 4,800 treatments in 2,900 patients (with an ethnically diverse population)
*About the 2009 Botulinum Toxin survey:
Sample: 600 U.S. adults ages 25-60 with a household income of $50,000 or more, including 570 females and 300 botulinum toxin users and 300 aware of at least one nonsurgical aesthetic procedure or treatment.(2)
References:
1. Kelton Research. Botulinum Toxin Survey NewsWorthy Analysis. February--March 2009. Data on file, Medicis Pharmaceutical Corporation.
2. Kelton Research. Botulinum Toxin Survey Topline Report. February--March 2009. Data on file, Medicis Pharmaceutical Corporation.
Important Safety Information
Dysport(TM) is an acetylcholine release inhibitor and a neuromuscular blocking agent indicated for the temporary improvement in appearance of moderate to severe glabellar lines associated with procerus and corrugator muscle activity in adult patients.
Botulinum toxin effects may spread beyond the site of local injection to produce systemic symptoms of botulism such as swallowing and breathing difficulties that can occur within hours to weeks of injection. The risk of symptoms is probably greatest in children treated for spasticity, but symptoms can also occur in adults, particularly in those patents who have underlying conditions that would predispose them to these symptoms. In clinical trials, the most frequently reported adverse effects (>2%) are headache, nasopharyngitis and upper respiratory tract infection.
Dysport(TM) is not recommended for children or pregnant women. Re-treatment with Dysport(TM) should be administered no more than every three months.
SOURCE Medicis Aesthetics Inc
Monday, March 23, 2009
Vitamin B12 Deficiency: The Five Warning Signs
Author: Edward Sample
Vitamin B12, or cobalamin, is an essential building block of DNA and is key to the maintenance of our body's genes. In this role, it is an important element in ensuring the proper function of the nervous system and maintaining a healthy hematological profile.
For more information about Vitamin B12 Shots at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=183
A proper diet and good nutrition is almost always sufficient to prevent B12 deficiency. The vitamin is naturally found in high protein foods such as meat, eggs, fish and dairy. In addition, those who regularly take a multivitamin are not likely to need extra vitamin B12 supplementation. However, ensuring enough B12 is ingested is important given that the body does not easily store the vitamin.
There is a high incidence of B12 deficiency in a few select groups. First, vegetarians or vegans who completely avoid animal based foods are at risk. Children who follow strict vegetarian diets absent of dairy products are particularly susceptible to low levels of the vitamin. Also, it is estimated that a high percentage of the elderly have some level of B12 deficiency.
This is because as we age, our ability to extract and absorb B12 from food-based protein sources diminishes. Also, seniors are more likely to have digestive problems, a degraded stomach lining, or have gone through some form of gastro-intestinal surgery. This contributes to the possibility of deficiency among this population.
Finally, large amounts of alcohol and caffeine have been shown to decrease the ability of the body to absorb the vitamin.It is important to recognize the 5 warning signs of B12 deficiency.
1. Stomach pain or digestive issues
2. Fatigue and weakness
3. Loss of sensation or tingling in lower extremities
4. Impaired cognitive function or dementia
5. Depression, irritability or moodinessStomach pain may be a symptom of pernicious anaemia, a condition where the immune system hinders the process by which the digestive system is able to absorb B12.
This results in the premature death of red blood cells. The fatigue and weakness that often accompanies low levels of the vitamin are also caused by anaemia.Given the importance of B12 to neurological function, a deficiency may result in several brain function issues such as the last three warning signs mentioned above.
Given a predisposition to B12 deficiency in those over 50, the loss of cognitive function, moodiness and irritability is often blamed on age as opposed to not getting enough of the vitamin. This is compounded by the fact that impaired mental function and dementia are often symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, something as simple as a dietary gap is often overlooked as a cause of mental degradation. This is where supplementation with B12 can result in significant improvements.
Also, it is important to note that the effects of B6 and Folic Acid in coordination with B12 are collectively more powerful than just B12 alone. This is because the systems dependent on B12 also rely on these other substances for proper function. B12, along with Folic Acid and B6 are necessary to keep homocysteine in the blood down to healthy levels. Several studies have shown that increased levels of homocysteine are associated with greater incidence of heart disease and stroke.
These vitamins can reduce the risk of cardiovascular issues in that they convert homocysteine to methionine, an amino acid that is used in a productive manner by cells. In two other studies, vitamin B12 and folic acid were also shown to have a role in reducing the number of abnormal, pre-cancerous bronchial cells in heavy smokers. The primary form of B12 used as a nutritional supplement is cyanocobalamin. However, it is important to note that the absorption of B12 is much higher when the source is food based as opposed to via supplementation. While for extreme cases of deficiency, vitamin B12 is available via prescription as an injection or nasal gel, most supplementation is as part of a multivitamin, delivered as a pill, sublingual tablet, or lozenge.
The Recommended Daily Intake of B12 is 6 micrograms (mcg), even though supplements will often deliver as much as 30 mcg. Despite the wide range of dosage options, most healthy adults only need 3 mcg each day. Additionally, B12 taken orally is well tolerated by most and there have been no documented cases of overdose or toxicity associated with the supplement. While occurring infrequently, the side effects of B12 include rash, hives and itching.
Those who take any of the following medications may be at risk for B12 deficiency in that they have been shown to hinder absorption: Antibiotics, Proton Pump Inhibitors Cholestyramine, H2 blockers, Metformin, and Potassium Chloride. Calcium supplementation may also assist the body in its ability to absorb B12.
If you feel that you may be at risk of vitamin b12 deficiency, or are exhibiting any warning signs, go see your doctor immediately for more information. Aside from those with extreme medical conditions, the rest of us can easily ensure that we are getting enough of the nutrients essential to health by taking a well-formulated multivitamin.
For more information about Vitamin B12 Shots at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=183
About the Author:Want to learn more about the Best Multivitamins and the role of other supplements? Visit us at Natural Fit Supplements
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/medicine-articles/vitamin-b12-deficiency-5-warning-signs-103163.html
Vitamin B12, or cobalamin, is an essential building block of DNA and is key to the maintenance of our body's genes. In this role, it is an important element in ensuring the proper function of the nervous system and maintaining a healthy hematological profile.
For more information about Vitamin B12 Shots at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=183
A proper diet and good nutrition is almost always sufficient to prevent B12 deficiency. The vitamin is naturally found in high protein foods such as meat, eggs, fish and dairy. In addition, those who regularly take a multivitamin are not likely to need extra vitamin B12 supplementation. However, ensuring enough B12 is ingested is important given that the body does not easily store the vitamin.
There is a high incidence of B12 deficiency in a few select groups. First, vegetarians or vegans who completely avoid animal based foods are at risk. Children who follow strict vegetarian diets absent of dairy products are particularly susceptible to low levels of the vitamin. Also, it is estimated that a high percentage of the elderly have some level of B12 deficiency.
This is because as we age, our ability to extract and absorb B12 from food-based protein sources diminishes. Also, seniors are more likely to have digestive problems, a degraded stomach lining, or have gone through some form of gastro-intestinal surgery. This contributes to the possibility of deficiency among this population.
Finally, large amounts of alcohol and caffeine have been shown to decrease the ability of the body to absorb the vitamin.It is important to recognize the 5 warning signs of B12 deficiency.
1. Stomach pain or digestive issues
2. Fatigue and weakness
3. Loss of sensation or tingling in lower extremities
4. Impaired cognitive function or dementia
5. Depression, irritability or moodinessStomach pain may be a symptom of pernicious anaemia, a condition where the immune system hinders the process by which the digestive system is able to absorb B12.
This results in the premature death of red blood cells. The fatigue and weakness that often accompanies low levels of the vitamin are also caused by anaemia.Given the importance of B12 to neurological function, a deficiency may result in several brain function issues such as the last three warning signs mentioned above.
Given a predisposition to B12 deficiency in those over 50, the loss of cognitive function, moodiness and irritability is often blamed on age as opposed to not getting enough of the vitamin. This is compounded by the fact that impaired mental function and dementia are often symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, something as simple as a dietary gap is often overlooked as a cause of mental degradation. This is where supplementation with B12 can result in significant improvements.
Also, it is important to note that the effects of B6 and Folic Acid in coordination with B12 are collectively more powerful than just B12 alone. This is because the systems dependent on B12 also rely on these other substances for proper function. B12, along with Folic Acid and B6 are necessary to keep homocysteine in the blood down to healthy levels. Several studies have shown that increased levels of homocysteine are associated with greater incidence of heart disease and stroke.
These vitamins can reduce the risk of cardiovascular issues in that they convert homocysteine to methionine, an amino acid that is used in a productive manner by cells. In two other studies, vitamin B12 and folic acid were also shown to have a role in reducing the number of abnormal, pre-cancerous bronchial cells in heavy smokers. The primary form of B12 used as a nutritional supplement is cyanocobalamin. However, it is important to note that the absorption of B12 is much higher when the source is food based as opposed to via supplementation. While for extreme cases of deficiency, vitamin B12 is available via prescription as an injection or nasal gel, most supplementation is as part of a multivitamin, delivered as a pill, sublingual tablet, or lozenge.
The Recommended Daily Intake of B12 is 6 micrograms (mcg), even though supplements will often deliver as much as 30 mcg. Despite the wide range of dosage options, most healthy adults only need 3 mcg each day. Additionally, B12 taken orally is well tolerated by most and there have been no documented cases of overdose or toxicity associated with the supplement. While occurring infrequently, the side effects of B12 include rash, hives and itching.
Those who take any of the following medications may be at risk for B12 deficiency in that they have been shown to hinder absorption: Antibiotics, Proton Pump Inhibitors Cholestyramine, H2 blockers, Metformin, and Potassium Chloride. Calcium supplementation may also assist the body in its ability to absorb B12.
If you feel that you may be at risk of vitamin b12 deficiency, or are exhibiting any warning signs, go see your doctor immediately for more information. Aside from those with extreme medical conditions, the rest of us can easily ensure that we are getting enough of the nutrients essential to health by taking a well-formulated multivitamin.
For more information about Vitamin B12 Shots at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=183
About the Author:Want to learn more about the Best Multivitamins and the role of other supplements? Visit us at Natural Fit Supplements
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/medicine-articles/vitamin-b12-deficiency-5-warning-signs-103163.html
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