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MOLYBDENUM
Post Views: 906 Molybdenum is an essential trace mineral. It is involved in uric acid metabolism. The absorption rate of molybdenum is very good. Adults can absorb 40% to 100% of dietary molybdenum whereas infants absorb almost all the molybdenum from breast milk or formula. Why is Molybdenum essential for the body? Molybdenum acts as a cofactor in activating 4 enzymes. These enzymes are necessary for: Breaking down aldehydes that are toxic to the body. Breaking down of alcohol and drugs in the liver. Converting xanthine to uric acid. Removing toxic byproducts and waste products of metabolism from the body. What are the signs and symptoms of Molybdenum deficiency? Molybdenum…
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VITAMIN B6
Post Views: 1,280 Pyridoxine or vitamin B6 is one of the water-soluble B complex vitamins. The body cannot store vitamin B6, excess of the vitamin is excreted in the urine. Hence, it is necessary to supplement this vitamin daily to avoid deficiency. Why is Vitamin B6 essential to the human body? Vitamin B6 is beneficial to the central nervous system and for metabolism. It has a notable role in the production of the neurotransmitters – serotonin and dopamine. Vitamin B6 is involved in several functions in the body that helps with: Brain function Pyridoxine aids in the synthesis of neurotransmitters and regulates energy use in the brain. It is needed…
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CHOLINE
Post Views: 961 Choline is an under-consumed and underappreciated essential nutrient. It was recognized as an essential nutrient by the Institute of Medicine (IOM) in the year 1998. Choline is neither a vitamin nor a mineral but an organic, water-soluble compound. Humans can produce small amounts of choline in the body (liver). Yet, it must be consumed exogenously to prevent signs of deficiency. Choline has a wide range of roles in human metabolism, from cell structure to neurotransmitter synthesis. Why is Choline essential for the human body? Choline helps in the synthesis of two major phospholipids that are vital for the cell membranes. In addition, it is needed to produce…
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FLUORINE
Post Views: 654 Fluorine (F) is a gaseous chemical and potentially a toxic element. But its ion, fluoride is composed of fluorine bound to a metal, non-metal, or organic compound. Fluoride predominates in nature and the human body. It is present in the bones and teeth. The hardness of the tooth enamel and resistance to tooth decay is increased markedly by the incorporation of this mineral. However, taking high amounts of fluoride can lead to fluorosis resulting in the hardening of bones. Why is Fluoride essential for the human body? The only beneficial role demonstrated for fluoride is reducing the prevalence and severity of dental caries in children and adults.…
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VITAMIN B3
Post Views: 771 Vitamin B3 or Niacin is one of the eight water-soluble B-vitamins. Nicotinic acid and nicotinamide are the two most common forms of niacin found in food and supplements. Vitamin B3 helps to convert nutrients into energy and create cholesterol and fats. It also plays a role in the repair of DNA and has antioxidant effects. Why is vitamin B3 essential to the human body? Improves blood cholesterol levels Niacin helps in improving blood cholesterol levels. Niacin increases HDL levels and protects heart health. Vitamin B3 is essential for reducing levels of LDL and VLDL. Controlling Blood Pressure Niacin enhances the release of prostaglandins that help dilate blood…
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PHOSPHORUS
Post Views: 1,111 Phosphorus is the second most abundant element in the human body. It comprises 30% of the total mineral content. Most phosphorus in the body is stored in the bone and teeth in an inorganic metal state. The remaining 15% is distributed in soft tissues in both organic and inorganic forms. An adult human body contains approximately 600 g of phosphorus. Why is Phosphorus essential to the human body? Phosphorus has a crucial role in the formation of bones and teeth.Phosphorus and calcium are interrelated. Vitamin D and the parathyroid hormone (PTH) regulate the metabolism of both these minerals. Additionally, phosphorus and calcium make up the main structural…
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VITAMIN K
Post Views: 431 Vitamin K is an essential micronutrient belonging to the family of fat-soluble vitamins. It exists in two forms – phylloquinone and menaquinones. Vitamin K helps in wound healing by its blood clotting mechanisms. There is also evidence that vitamin K plays a vital role in bone metabolism and regulating blood calcium levels. Why is vitamin k essential to the human body? Blood coagulation: The primary function of vitamin K in the body is the maintenance of normal blood coagulation. Synthesis of proteins: Vitamin K functions as a coenzyme for the synthesis of proteins involved in hemostasis (blood clotting) and bone metabolism. Vitamin K is also involved in…
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IODINE
Post Views: 467 Iodine, also called iodide, is a naturally occurring mineral found in soil and ocean waters. About 70 -80% of the total iodine (15 -20 mg) found in the human body is present in the thyroid gland. Iodine derives its nutritional importance as a constituent of thyroid hormones. The thyroid hormones are indispensable for normal growth and development in humans. An adequate quantity of iodine is essential in the diet to ensure the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. Why is iodine essential to the human body? Iodine is an essential part of the thyroid hormones – thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones play a key role…
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VITAMIN B5
Post Views: 617 Vitamin B5 is also known as Pantothenic acid, one of the 8 B-vitamins essential to the human body. The word pantothenic comes from the Greek word ‘pantos’ which means “from everywhere.” This vitamin is present in a large variety of foods. Like other B-vitamins, this too is a water-soluble vitamin and hence, needs to be consumed daily. Why is Vitamin B5 essential to the human body? Pantothenic acid helps in the breakdown of fats. Research suggests, that it has a potential role in reducing cholesterol levels in people who have dyslipidemia (high cholesterol). Vitamin B5 is used to make coenzyme A (CoA), a chemical compound that helps…
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MANGANESE
Post Views: 842 Manganese (Mn) is a transition element and can assume 11 different oxidation states. An adult man weighing 70 kg is estimated to contain 10-20 mg of the metal, with 25% of the total body stores in the skeleton. Relatively high amounts of the minerals are also present in the liver, pancreas, and intestine. Why is Manganese essential for the human body? Manganese is a cofactor for many enzymes. Through the action of these enzymes, it helps in the metabolism of: – amino acid – cholesterol – glucose – carbohydrate It also plays a crucial role in bone formation, reproduction, and immune response. Manganese also plays a vital…
