Research Library
The content on this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your health routine or taking new supplements.
Fish Oil
Vitable’s fish oil contains a concentrated form of naturally derived omega-3 fatty acids; eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Omega-3s can’t be produced in the human body therefore they are mostly consumed from dietary sources. Fish oils have been extensively studied, revealing their key action in exerting anti-inflammatory effects, maintaining and supporting heart and brain health and contributing playing a key role in supporting a healthy pregnancy. Brain The brain is predominately made up of fat (approx.. 50%), mostly the omega-3 fatty acid DHA. Fats are crucial for brain development, integrity, function and overall health. Fatty acids are major components of the brain and are found in high concentrations (Braun & Cohen 2015, 327). Studies show that fish oils have a direct effect on brain function, mood and behaviour (Braun & Cohen 2015, 327) (Larrieu & Laye 2018). Low plasma levels of essential fatty acids are associated with a number of neurological disorders (Riediger et al. 2009). Cardiovascular System You are most likely to have heard about the positive effects of dietary fish intake and supplemental fish oils on heart health. Fish oils have been shown to exert a number of different effects on the heart and vessels exerting a protective effect throughout the cardiovascular system. Studies show supplementing with fish oil assists with the reduction of triglyceride levels, reducing blood pressure and heart rate, cholesterol levels, showing antiplatelet activity and reduce atherogenesis (Braun & Cohen 2015, 325) (Wang et al. 2006), (Balk et al. 2006). Anti-inflammatory Fish oils influence a number of chemical changes in the body that ultimately exert an anti-inflammatory action (Braun & Cohen 2015, 327). Inflammation is a major contributing factor in the development of a number of chronic diseases. Omega-3 fatty acids replace arachidonic acid in inflammatory cells to reduce inflammatory mediators (Calder 2003). Omega-3 fatty acids decrease the production of inflammatory eicosanoids, cytokines, and reactive oxygen species and the expression of adhesion molecules (Clader 2006). Pregnancy DHA plays a crucial role in the growth and functional development of the brain during the third trimester and the early postnatal period (Braun & Cohen 2015, 327). Omega 3 fatty acids are critical for fetal neurodevelopment (Greenberg et al. 2008). References Braun, L., and Cohen,Marc. 2015. Herbs & Natural Supplements An Evidence-based guide Volume 2. 4th ed. Australia: Elsevier. Heart Foundation Australia. 2015. Healthy Hearts Position Statement. https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/images/uploads/main/Programs/PRO-169_Fish_and_seafood_position_statement.pdf Wang, C., Harris, WS., Chung, M., Lichtenstein, AH., Balk, EM., Kupelnick, B., Jordan, HS., Lau, J. 2006. “n-3 Fatty acids from fish or fish-oil supplements, but not alpha-linolenic acid, benefit cardiovascular disease outcomes in primary- and secondary- prevention studies: a systematic review.” The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 84. 1 (Jul): 5-17. 10.1093/ajcn/84.1.5 Balk, EM., Lichtenstein, AH., Chung, M., Kuperlnick, B., Chew, P., Lau, J. 2006. “Effects of omega-3 fatty acids on serum markers of cardiovascular disease risk: a systematic review.” Atherosclerosis, 189. 1 (Nov): 19-30. 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2006.02.012 Calder, PC. 2003. “N-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and inflammation: from molecular biology to the clinic.” Lipids, 38. 4 (Apr): 434-52. 10.1007/s11745-003-1068-y Calder, PC. 2006. “n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, inflammation, and inflammatory diseases.” The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 83. 6 (Jun): 150-151. 10.1093/ajcn/83.6.1505S Riediger, ND., Othman, RA., Suh, M., Moghadasian, MH. 2009. “A systemic review of the roles of n-3 fatty acids in health and disease.” Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 109. 4 (Apr): 668-79. 10.1016/j.jada.2008.12.022 Larrieu, T., Laye, S. 2018. “Food for Mood: Relevance of Nutrition Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Depression and Anxiety”. Frontiers in Physiology. 9 1047. doi:10.3389/fphys.2018.01047 Greenberg, JA., Bell, SJ., Ausdal, WV. 2008. “Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation During Pregnancy”. Reviews in Obstetrics & Gynecology, 1. 4: 162-169. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2621042/
Learn moreEssentials Daily + Iron
Daily Essentials + Iron is a high-quality, vegan-friendly supplement designed to support optimal nutrient levels, especially when dietary intake falls short. Formulated with 18 essential nutrients, this blend is crafted to boost energy and promote overall wellness. It includes superior nutrient forms, like folinic acid and gentle, highly bioavailable iron bisglycinate, making it ideal for those who need extra iron. With thoughtful quantities of ingredients like plant-based vitamin D3, this formula is gentle on the stomach and particularly beneficial for those who menstruate, helping to maintain balanced nutrient levels for sustained energy and vitality. Nutrient Support Taking multivitamins can be beneficial to health for people who don’t receive the proper nutrients from a balanced diet. Many people find it difficult to eat a balanced and healthy diet, and multivitamins can help fill the nutritional gaps. A balanced diet, including sufficient fruit and vegetables, can reduce the risk of developing conditions such as heart disease and diabetes (AIHW 2023). The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) 2013 Australian Dietary Guidelines recommend a minimum number of serves of fruit and vegetables each day, depending on a person's age and sex, to ensure good nutrition and health. In 2021, 94% of Australians were not getting their recommended daily intake of fruit and vegetables, according to the latest data on dietary behaviours released by the Australia Bureau of Statistics (ABS 2022). Levomefolate plays a role in synthesizing neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which regulate mood (Siu Kei Lam et al. 2022). Observational studies have shown connections between higher choline levels and better cognitive performance (NIH 2022). Levomefolate helps regulate homocysteine levels by supporting the methylation cycle. High homocysteine is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, so maintaining proper levels can help support heart health (Siu Kei Lam et al. 2022). Iodine deficiency is primarily caused by inadequate dietary intake of iodine and low iodine levels in the soil. Low intake iodine can lead to reduced thyroid hormone production (NIH 2022). Choline may protect cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure, altering lipid profiles, and reducing levels of plasma homocysteine (NIH 2022). Energy Daily iron supplementation in menstruating women has been shown to increase hemoglobin levels and iron stores, reduce the prevalence of anemia and iron deficiency, and improve both exercise performance and fatigue (Low et al. 2016). References Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Poor Diet. Published April 19, 2023. Accessed November 13, 2024. https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/food-nutrition/poor-diet/contents/poor-diet-in-adults Australian Bureau of Statistics. Dietary Behaviour, 2020-21. Published March 24, 2022. Accessed November 13, 2024. https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/health-conditions-and-risks/dietary-behaviour/2020-21 Choline - Health Professional Fact Sheet. National Institutes of Health. Published March 30, 2022. Accessed November 13, 2024. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Choline-HealthProfessional/ Low MS, Speedy J, Styles CE, De-Regil LM, Pasricha SR. Daily iron supplementation for improving anaemia, iron status and health in menstruating women. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016 Apr 18;4(4):CD009747. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD009747.pub2. PMID: 27087396; PMCID: PMC10182438. Nelson Siu Kei Lam, Xin Xin Long, Xuegang Li, Mirette Saad, Florence Lim, James CG Doery, Robert C. Griffin, Cherrie Galletly, 2022. "The potential use of folate and its derivatives in treating psychiatric disorders: A systematic review", Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 146, 2022,112541, ISSN 0753-3322, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112541 Office of Dietary Supplements. Iodine - Health Professional Fact Sheet. National Institutes of Health. Published March 29, 2022. Accessed November 13, 2024. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iodine-HealthProfessional/
Learn moreDaily Probiotics
Vitable’s Daily Probiotics is a blend of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium lactis, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus to promote a healthy digestive system and immune function. This daily probiotic formula is designed to help restore and maintain friendly gut flora, supporting bowel regularity and providing relief from common digestive symptoms like bloating, gas, and flatulence. Digestion Following and during the use of antibiotics, probiotics help restore digestive balance, maintain intestinal health and replenish digestive flora. Studies support specific probiotics are beneficial in lower gastrointestinal problems like intestinal gas (Hungin et al, 2018). There is a strong association between probiotics and overall wellbeing with evidence associating probiotic use with a healthy digestive system function (Kechagia et al. 2013). Lactobacillus rhamnosus is able to change the population of microorganisms in the gut microbiota and control the functioning of the ecosystem in the gut to support optimal function and prevent degenerative diseases (Azad et al. 2018). Bifidobacterium species, like Lactobacillus, can inhibit harmful bacteria, improve gastrointestinal barrier function and suppress proinflammatory cytokines (Azad et al. 2018). Immunity Evidence indicates some probiotic strains are capable of modulating the immune system at both the systemic and mucosal levels (Braun & Cohen 2015, 773). Probiotic strains including L. rhamnosus taken alongside a course of antibiotics has shown to effectively decrease the incidence of related side effects (Braun & Cohen 2015, 775). Probiotics modulate the intestinal immune system by production of secreted factors and metabolites that affect the growth and function of immune cells (Hemarajata & Versalovic, 2013). Probiotics exert immunomodulatory properties contributing to a fast immune response (Paineau et al. 2008). References Braun, L., and Cohen,Marc. 2015. Herbs & Natural Supplements An Evidence-based guide Volume 2. 4th ed. Australia: Elsevier. Hungin, APS., Mitchell, CR. 2018. “Systematic review: probiotics in the management of lower gastrointestinal symptoms - an updated evidence-based international consensus.” Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 47. 8 (Apr): 1054-1070. doi:10.1111/apt.14539 Azad, M., Sarker, M., Li, T., Yin, J., 2018. “Probiotic species in the modulation of gut microbiota: AN overview.” BioMed Research International, 9478630. 10.1155/2018/9478630 Hemarajata, P., Versalovic, J. 2013. “Effects of probiotics on gut microbiota: mechanisms of intestinal immunomodulation and neuromodulation.” Therapeutic Advances in Gastroenterology, 6. (1): 39-51. 10.1177/1756283X12459294 Paineau, D., Carcano, D., Leyer, G., Darquy, S., Alyanakian, MA., Simoneau, G., Bergmann, JF.,Brassart, D., Bornet, F., Ouwehand, AC. 2009. “Effects of seven potential probiotic strains on specific immune responses in healthy adults: a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial”. FEMS Immunology & Medical Microbiology, 53. 1 (Jun): 107–113. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1574-695X.2008.00413
Learn moreCranberry
The Native American Indians first used cranberries for food and for their medicinal properties to treat bladder and kidney diseases. Cranberries contain a chemical component called proanthocyanidins that help discourage bacteria from sticking on the walls of the bladder (the urinary tract). Our Cranberry formula contains Vitamin C and Silica to help reduce the frequency of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). The added silica also supports nail strength and thickness. Antioxidant The chemical polyphenolic compounds in cranberry show a high antioxidant capacity (Braun & Cohen 2015, 248). Isolated compounds and the whole fruit have shown free radical scavenging activity comparable to that of Vitamin E, a potent antioxidant (Yan et al. 2002). Urinary Tract Health Cranberries contribute to the maintenance of urinary tract health including bacterial anti-adhesion bioactivity of the proanthocyanidins (Howell 2007). Random controlled trials demonstrate evidence of using cranberry therapeutically in UTI prophylaxis (Lynch 2004). A randomized, placebo-controlled trial of 150 women over a 12 month period found cranberry significantly decreased the number of patients having at least one symptomatic UTI per year (Stothers 2002). Nail Health Silica supports the body’s structure and strength of connective tissue for healthy and strong nails (Lassus 1992). Silica plays a role in repairing connective tissues in hair and nail beds (Barel et al. 2005). Studies suggest silica improves the condition of nails and overall nail health (Lassus 1992). References Braun, L., and Cohen,Marc. 2015. Herbs & Natural Supplements An Evidence-based guide Volume 2. 4th ed. Australia: Elsevier. Howell, AB. 2007. “Bioactive compounds in cranberries and their role in prevention of urinary tract infections.” Molecular Nutrition and Food Research. 51. 6 (June); 732-7. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/mnfr.200700038 Yan, X., Murphy, BT., Hammond, GB., Vinson, JA., Neto, CC. 2002. “Antioxidant activities and antitumor screening of extracts from cranberry fruit (Vaccinium macrocarpon)”. Journal of agriculture and food chemistry, 9. 50 (Oct); 5844-9. https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/jf0202234 Lynch, DM. 2004. “Cranberry for Prevention of Urinary Tract Infections”. American Family Physician, 70. 11 (Dec): 2175-2177. https://www.aafp.org/afp/2004/1201/p2175.html Stothers, L. 2002. “A randomized trial to evaluate effectiveness and cost effectiveness of naturopathic cranberry products as prophylaxis against urinary tract infection women.” The Canadian Journal of Urology, 9. 3 (jun): 1588-62. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12121581 Barel A., Calomme, M., Timchenko, A., De Paepe, K., Demeester, N., Rogiers, V., Clarys, P., Vanden, BD. 2005. “Effect of oral intake of choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid on skin, nails and hair in women with photodamaged skin”. Arch Dermatol Res. 297. 4 (June):147-53. doi: 10.1007/s00403-005-0584-6. Lassus, A. 1992. “Colloidal silicic acid for oral and topical treatment of aged skin, fragile hair and brittle nails in females”. J Int Med Res. 21. 4 (Jul-Aug):209-15. doi: 10.1177/030006059302100406. PMID: 8112478.
Learn moreCollagen Plus HA
Hair and skin are made of connective tissue which is constantly in a cycle of renewal as old cells are shed and new cells are grown to replace them. Collagen is the main structural protein in connective tissue important to support healthy skin, hair and nails. Our bodies can naturally synthesise collagen by combining amino acids from protein with essential vitamins and minerals yet external factors including aging processes, UV radiation, poor dietary intake and lack of nutrition, hormonal health, alcohol and cigarettes can affect healthy hair skin and nails. Skin Health Studies suggest collagen may be effective to improve hydration, elasticity, and wrinkling in human skin (Kim et al. 2018). Oral intake of specific bioactive collagen peptides (Verisol) reduces skin wrinkles and has positive effects on dermal matrix synthesis (Proksch 2014). Collagen peptides may support aging skin, including skin dryness (Asserin et al. 2015). Collagen shows to have effect on skin fibroblasts, helping aid with the skin restoration process (Lupu et al. 2020). Collagen stimulates skin cells to produce more collagen and promote changes in the structure of the skin, delaying the signs of aging by smoothing the formation of wrinkles and improving the elasticity and firmness of skin (Gelita 2020). Research indicates that 100-200mg/day of high molecular weight hyaluronic (HMW-HA) significantly improves skin hydration, brightness, and dermal density in both young and elderly groups after 2–8 weeks. After 12 weeks, it also promotes increased epidermis thickness, providing strong evidence for the clinical benefits of oral HA for skin health (Gao et al. 2023). After 12 weeks of oral hyaluronic acid (MW 2 k or 300 k) suppresses wrinkles, significantly decreases wrinkle volume ratio after 8 weeks, and improves skin luster and suppleness, highlighting its potential for maintaining healthy skin (Oe et al. 2017). Hair Health Collagen is the main structural protein in connective tissue and a lack of collagen can lead to a variety of health problems including weak and brittle hair (Green Dispensary 2020). Marine collagen may show to have hair growth promoting benefits (Kim & Kim 2017), (Kim et al. 2017). Nail Health Studies support the daily ingestion of collagen increases nail growth and improves brittle nails (Hexsel et al. 2017). Collagen may have a positive impact on nail improvement, quality and growth (Moskowitx 2000). Marine collagen acts to protect skin cells and tissue due to its antioxidant activity and may correct damage caused to skin, hair and nails (Venugopal 2008). References Kim, DU., Chung, HC., Choi. J., Sakai, Y., Lee, BY. 2018. “Oral Intake of Low-Molecular-Weight Collagen Peptide Improves Hydration, Elasticity, and Wrinkling in Human Skin: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study”. Nutrients. 26. 10(7):826. doi: 10.3390/nu10070826. Proksch, E., Schunck, M., Zague, V., Segger, D., Degwert, J., Oesser, S. 2014. “ Oral intake of specific bioactive collagen peptides reduces skin wrinkles and increases dermal matrix synthesis”. Skin Pharmacol Physiol, 27(3):113-9. doi: 10.1159/000355523. Asserin, J., Lati, E., Shioya, T., Prawitt, J. 2015. “ The effect of oral collagen peptide supplementation on skin moisture and the dermal collagen network: evidence from an ex vivo model and randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials”. J Cosmet Dermatol. 14(4):291-301. doi: 10.1111/jocd.12174. Hexsel, D., Zague, V., Schunck, M., Siega, C., Camozzato, FO., Oesser, S. 2017. “Oral supplementation with specific bioactive collagen peptides improves nail growth and reduces symptoms of brittle nails”. J Cosmet Dermatol. 16(4):520-526. doi: 10.1111/jocd.12393. Lupu, M.A, Gradisteanu Pircalabioru, G., Chifiriuc, MC., Albulescu, R., Tanase, C. 2020 “Beneficial effects of food supplements based on hydrolyzed collagen for skin care (Review)”. Exp Ther Med. 20(1):12-17. doi: 10.3892/etm.2019.8342. 2020. Verisol Bioactive Collagen Peptides. Gelita. https://www.gelita.com/en Kim, B. Y., & Kim, H. S. 2017. “Successful hair regrowth in a Korean patient with alopecia universalis following tofacitinib treatment”. Singapore medical journal, 58(5), 279–280. https://doi.org/10.11622/smedj.2017039 Kim, S., Ravichandran, Y.D., Khan, S.B. 2017. “Prospective of the cosmeceuticals derived from marine organisms”. Biotechnol Bioproc E. 13, 511–523. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12257-008-0113-5 2020. The “Beauty” of Collagen. Green Dispensary. https://greendispensary.com.au/the-beauty-of-collagen/ Moskowitz, RW. 2000. “Role of collagen hydrolysate in bone and joint disease”. Semin Arthritis Rheum.30(2):87-99. doi: 10.1053/sarh.2000.9622. Benugopal, V. 2008. Marine sources of vitamins and minerals in marine products for healthcare. Fl: CRC Press. Gao, Y. R., Wang, R. P., Zhang, L., Fan, Y., Luan, J., Liu, Z., & Yuan, C. 2023. "Oral administration of hyaluronic acid to improve skin conditions via a randomized double-blind clinical test." Skin Res Technol, 29(11), e13531. https://doi.org/10.1111/srt.13531 Oe M, Sakai S, Yoshida H, Okado N, Kaneda H, Masuda Y, Urushibata O. 2017. "Oral hyaluronan relieves wrinkles: a double-blinded, placebo-controlled study over a 12-week period." Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. Jul 18;10:267-273. doi: 10.2147/CCID.S141845.
Learn moreVitamin K2
Vitamin K refers to a group of fat-soluble vitamins, primarily divided into two main forms: vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) and vitamin K2 (menaquinones). While vitamin K1 is primarily known for its role in blood clotting, K2 serves an important role in cardiovascular health through regulation of calcium homeostasis. Due to modern manufacturing processes, the vitamin K content, particularly the vitamin K2 content, of the food supply today has significantly dropped, making vitamin K2 supplements a more reliable way to secure adequate intake (Theuwissen et al. 2014). Bone Health Several studies have demonstrated that vitamin K insufficiency is associated with low bone mineral density (BMD) and increased fractures (Bügel S. 2022). A 2022 meta-analysis of 16 studies in 6,425 postmenopausal women found that those taking vitamin K2 supplements had a positive effect on bone mineralisation and increased bone strength (Ma et al. 2022). Heart Health Vitamin K2 is linked to the prevention of arterial calcification and arterial stiffening. Sufficient intake of vitamin K2 has been demonstrated to reduce the risk of vascular damage by activating matrix GLA protein (MGP), which prevents calcium deposits from forming on artery walls (Maresz 2015). Increased vitamin K2 intake may reduce arterial stiffness, slow progression of vascular and valvular calcification, lower the incidence of diabetes and coronary artery disease, and decrease cardiovascular mortality (Hariri et al. 2021). References Bügel S. 2008. "Vitamin K and bone health in adult humans." Vitamins and hormones, 78, 393–416. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0083-6729(07)00016-7 Ma, M. L., Ma, Z. J., He, Y. L., Sun, H., Yang, B., Ruan, B. J., Zhan, W. D., Li, S. X., Dong, H., & Wang, Y. X. 2022. "Efficacy of vitamin K2 in the prevention and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials." Frontiers in public health, 10, 979649. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2022.979649 Beulens JW, Bots ML, Atsma F, et al. 2009. "High dietary menaquinone intake is associated with reduced coronary calcification." Atherosclerosis. 203(2):489–493 Theuwissen, E., Magdeleyns, E. J., Braam, L. A., Teunissen, K. J., Knapen, M. H., Binnekamp, I. A., van Summeren, M. J., & Vermeer, C. 2014. Vitamin K status in healthy volunteers. Food & function, 5(2), 229–234. https://doi.org/10.1039/c3fo60464k Maresz K. 2015. Proper Calcium Use: Vitamin K2 as a Promoter of Bone and Cardiovascular Health. Integrative medicine (Encinitas, Calif.), 14(1), 34–39. Hariri, E., Kassis, N., Iskandar, J. P., Schurgers, L. J., Saad, A., Abdelfattah, O., Bansal, A., Isogai, T., Harb, S. C., & Kapadia, S. 2021. Vitamin K2-a neglected player in cardiovascular health: a narrative review. Open heart, 8(2), e001715. https://doi.org/10.1136/openhrt-2021-001715
Learn moreVitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin that regulates calcium levels in the body and is vital for strong and healthy bones. Vitamin D can be consumed from dietary sources or supplements and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) can also be made in the body, it is synthesised in the skin through exposure to sunlight. Unlike many other vitamins, vitamin D can be ingested through the diet and produced and stored in the body, although the production in the body is reliant on adequate exposure to sunlight. Bone Health Vitamin D is most well known in the maintenance of bone health, where it plays a role in regulating calcium and phosphorus homeostasis (Braun & Cohen 2015, 1130). Clinical studies show that vitamin D supplementation improves the quality and quantity of bone (Braun & Cohen 2015, 1130). Vitamin D helps to maintain bone health by promoting bone resorption (Linus Pauling Institute 2020). Adequate vitamin D is essential to support bone strength and reduce the risk of fracture (Laird et al. 2010). Immune System There are a number of vitamin D receptors expressed by most cells of the immune system where it acts to enhance the body’s immune system (Aranow 2012). A vitamin D deficiency can compromise the integrity of the immune system and lead to unwanted immune responses for example autoimmunity conditions (Linus Pauling Institute 2020). Vitamin D enhances and supports the immune system’s response to both bacterial and viral agents via differentiation and immune response activity (Brown et al. 1999). References Braun, L., and Cohen,Marc. 2015. Herbs & Natural Supplements An Evidence-based guide Volume 2. 4th ed. Australia: Elsevier. Nowson, CA., Margerison, C. 2002. “Vitamin D intake and vitamin D status of Australians”. The Medical Journal of Australia, 177. 3: 149-152. 10.5694/j.1326-5377.2002.tb04702.x Linus Pauling Institute. 2020. Micronutrient information center Vitamin D. https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/vitamins/vitamin-D Brown, AJ., Dusso, A., Slatopolsky, E. 1999. “Vitamin D.” The American Journal of Physiology, 277. 2 (Aug): 157-75. 10.1152/ajprenal.1999.277.2.F157 Laird, E., Ward, M., McSorley, E., Strain, JJ., Wallace, J. 2010. “Vitamin D and Bone Health; Potential Mechanisms.” Nutrients, 2. 7 (Jul): 693-724. 10.3390/nu2070693 Aranow, C. 2012. “Vitamin D and the immune system.” Journal of Investigative Medicine, 59. 6 (Aug): 881-886. 10.231/JIM.0b013e31821b8755
Learn moreVitamin C Plus
Vitamin C aka ascorbic acid is an essential water-soluble nutrient, required in the diet, regularly, as our bodies can not make it. It has been classified as one of the most important water-soluble antioxidant substances in the body. Ongoing research explores the benefits of Vitamin C, due to its antioxidant activity on chronic diseases. Antioxidant Vitamin C can work both inside and outside the cells, neutralising free radicals, preventing damage and protecting cells (Braun & Cohen 2015, 1102). Ascorbic acid is a reducing agent and can reduce and neutralise reactive oxygen species (Lobo et al. 2010). Immune System Vitamin C stimulates the production and function of white blood cells, the cells in the body that protect the body from unwanted substances (Linus Pauling Institute 2020). Vitamin C contributes to immune defence by supporting the cellular function of the innate and adaptive immune system (Carr & Maggini, 2017). Energy Support Vitamin C is a cofactor for the molecule required for the transport of fatty acids into mitochondria for the generation of metabolic energy (Carr & Maggini, 2017). Collagen Formation / Skin Health Vitamin C is needed for the synthesis of collagen proteins. It plays a role in the maintenance of normal collagen networks in humans (Boyera et al. 1998). Vitamin C is found in high levels in the dermal and epidermal skin layers. Dietary and topical ascorbic acid have beneficial effects on skin cells (Linus Pauling Institute 2020). Brain Function Ascorbate is a vital antioxidant molecule in the brain, it’s involved in neurotransmitter synthesis and is involved in neural maturation and acts and a neuroprotective agent (Harrison & May 2009). References Braun, L., and Cohen,Marc. 2015. Herbs & Natural Supplements An Evidence-based guide Volume 2. 4th ed. Australia: Elsevier. Harrison, FE., May, JM. 2009. “Vitamin C function in the brain: vital role of the ascorbate transported SVCT2”. Free Radical Biology and Medicine, 15. 6 (Mar): 719-30. 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2008.12.018 Linus Pauling Institute. 2020. “Micronutrient Information Center- Vitamin C”. https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/vitamins/vitamin-C Boyera, N., Galey, I., Bernard, BA. 1998. “Effect of vitamin c and its derivatives on collagen synthesis and cross-linking by normal human fibroblasts.” International Journal of Cosmetic Science”, 20. 3 (Jun): 151-8. 10.1046/j.1467-2494.1998.171747 Carr, AC., Maggini, S. 2017. “Vitamin C and Immune function.” Nutrients, 3. 9(Nov). 10.3390/nu9111211 Lobo, V., Patil, A., Chandra, N. 2010. “Free radicals, antioxidants and functional foods: Impact on human health.” Pharmacology Review, 4. 8 (Jul-Dec): 118-126. 10.4103/0973-7847.70902
Learn moreVitamin B12
Vitamin B12 or cobalamin is a water-soluble vitamin that can be obtained in the diet mostly from animal protein products. Vitamin B12 is essential for the normal function of all cells in the body and like other B vitamins, B12 helps to transform the food you eat into energy your cells can use. B12 plays a role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins, converting dietary energy into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the form of energy the body uses in cells. Vitamin B12 plays a key role in the blood where it is involved in the production of red blood cells and normal blood production. It helps to prevent anaemia (deficiency of red blood cells) and therefore the malabsorption of vitamin B12. Signs of anaemia include fatigue and weakness. Energy B12 plays a role in the synthesis of the intermediate succinyl-CoA of the citric acid cycle. This cycle helps to release stored energy from foods (Linus Pauling Institute 2020). Vitamin B12 is essential for cellular energy production and energy metabolism (O’Leary 2010) (NIH 2020). Brain Health/ Nervous System Vitamin B12 is involved in the synthesis of protein structures in the myelin sheath around nerves and nerve cells; a b12 deficiency will result in demyelination of nerves causing neurological problems (Braun & Cohen 2015, 1099). Vitamin B12 is essential for the synthesis of neurotransmitters (Linus Pauling Institute 2020). Cognition A B12 deficiency is associated with poor sensory and motor peripheral nerve function (Leishear et al. 2012). B12 maintains and supports cognitive function (Morris 2012) (Horvat et al. 2016). Immune System Vitamin B12 acts as an immunomodulator for cellular immunity (Tamura et al. 1999). References Tamura, J., Kubota, K., Murakami, H., Sawamura, M., Matsushima, T., Tamura, T., Saitoh, T., Kurabayshi, H., & Naruse, T. 1999. ‘Immunomodulation by vitamin B12: augmentation of CD8+ T lymphocytes and natural killer (NK) cell activity in vitamin B12-deficient patients by methyl-B12 treatment”. Clinical and experimental immunology, 116. 1: 28–32. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-2249.1999.00870 Braun, L., and Cohen,Marc. 2015. Herbs & Natural Supplements An Evidence-based guide Volume 2. 4th ed. Australia: Elsevier. Linus Pauling Institute - Micronutrient Information. 2019. Vitamin B12. https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/vitamins/vitamin-B12 Leishear, K., Boudreau, RM., Studenski, Ferrucci, L., Rosano, C., deRekeneire, N., Houston, DK., Kritchevsky, SB., Schwartz, AV., Vinik, AI., Hogerbost, E., Yaffe, K., Harris, TB., Newman, AB., Strotmeyer, ES. 2012. “Relationship Between Vitamin B12 and Sensory and Motor Peripheral Nerve Function in Older Adults”. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 60. 6 (Jun): 1057-63. doi: 10.1111/j.1532-5415.2012.03998. Morris M. S. 2012. “The role of B vitamins in preventing and treating cognitive impairment and decline”. Advances in nutrition (Bethesda, Md.), 3. 6: 801–812. https://doi.org/10.3945/an.112.002535 Horvat, P., Gardiner, J., Kubinova, R., Pajak, A., Tamosiunas, A., Schöttker, B., Pikhart, H., Peasey, A., Jansen, E., & Bobak, M. (2016). Serum folate, vitamin B-12 and cognitive function in middle and older age: The HAPIEE study. Experimental gerontology, 76, 33–38. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.exger.2016.01.011 O'Leary, F., & Samman, S. (2010). Vitamin B12 in health and disease. Nutrients, 2(3), 299–316. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu2030299 National Institutes of Health. 2020. Vitamin B12. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminB12-HealthProfessional/
Learn more
