The body uses vitamin B6 for brain and nervous system function, metabolic processes, blood sugar level regulation, blood cell formation, and to support your immune system. This important vitamin is found in many foods, including meat, seafood, and some vegetables. Taking B6 supplementally is generally quite safe since excess is excreted in urine; however, extremely high intake has been associated with some side effects. (more…)
Calcium, the most abundant mineral in the body, makes up 1.5 percent to 2 percent of your weight. Most of the mineral resides in your bones and teeth, but calcium in your bloodstream plays an important role in many biochemical processes. Calcium deficiency is usually caused by a medical condition, although it’s occasionally caused by not getting enough in your diet. When your blood calcium levels fall too low, a condition called hypocalcemia, your body begins pulling calcium from your bones and teeth, weakening them. If you lack calcium in […]
Not all vitamins and minerals are created equal, and your body can tell the difference between synthetic and plant-based supplements. If you have ever taken a cheap, synthetic vitamin or mineral and failed to notice a change in how you look or feel, there is a reason. Artificial vitamins often pass through your body without being absorbed. Just like when selecting food to eat, taking the time to study the labels and ingredients can make the difference between achieving the health you want or wasting your time and money. (more…)
Not all iron is created equally, and if you have an iron imbalance, you should carefully consider which iron is best for your health. Your body recognizes the difference between heme and nonheme iron sources and will absorb each type differently. These types are easy to identify in your daily diet. Heme iron comes from animals, and nonheme iron comes from plants. Here is everything else you need to know about the differences between heme and nonheme iron and how each can affect your health. (more…)
The catalase enzyme is so critical to our health that it is found in nearly every living organism on the planet that is exposed to oxygen. This antioxidant enzyme can catalyze the conversion of hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a by-product of cell metabolism, and while used in the body to fight pathogens and infections, it is harmful to all living organisms. As a result, living organisms need to break down hydrogen peroxide as soon as its usefulness is done. All living organisms produce the […]
