Vigour – Health and Sports Nutrition

To obtain peak health and performance our body requires many different vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fish oils.
Vitamins help the body turn food into energy and tissues. There are 13 vitamins in all: vitamin A; the vitamin B complex, which includes thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folic acid, vitamin B12 pantothenic acid, and biotin; and vitamins C, D, E, and K.
There is a wide array of daily essential nutrients for improving areas such as joint health and with some being integral to assisting bodily functions such as the circulatory, digestive, immune and nervous systems.

Glossary

Antioxidants
Antioxidants are chemical compounds or substance that inhibits oxidation of molecules. Although oxidation reactions are crucial for life, they can also be damaging.
Low levels of antioxidants, or inhibition of the antioxidant enzymes, cause oxidative stress and may damage or kill cells. Diets high in fruit and vegetables, which are high in antioxidants, promote health and reduce the effects of ageing however, most diets still require a daily antioxidant supplement to maintain sufficient levels.
Antioxidant supplementation is particularly important for those engaging in physical activity where increased oxygen consumption and production of oxidants results in damage that contributes to muscular fatigue during and after exercise.

Calcium
Calcium is predominately stored in the bones and teeth where it remains as a vital component of maintaining their structure and overall health.
Calcium is found in some foods, especially dairy products but can also taken as a daily supplement to meet the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of approximately 1000mg for the average adult.

For those engaging in athletic activity, the consumption of adequate Calcium is especially important and is a key mineral when sports supplements are being considered.

Cod Liver Oil
Cod liver oil is a nutritional supplement derived from the liver of cod fish. It has high levels of the omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, and very high levels of vitamin A and vitamin d.
These fish oils are essential for the healthy function of the brain, heart, joints, and digestive system. The benefits of these nutritional supplements are clear not only for those involved in regular physical activity but for anyone looking to improve their overall health and vitality.

Evening Primrose Oil
Evening primrose oil is derived from the seeds of the evening primrose flower which is then purified and then encapsulated ready for consumption by swallowing.
The essential fatty acids in the oil are found to be beneficial to the growth and development to the body. Evening primrose oil has also shown to significantly ease the symptoms associated with pre-menstrual syndrome, the menopause and arthritic pain. Evening primrose oil helps to maintain hormonal balance and healthier skin from its rich source of omega -6 GLA (gamma-linolenic acid) and its precursor to prostanglandins which regulates these functions.

Garlic
Garlic highly beneficial nutrients include Allicin, Selenium Germanium.
Allicin gives garlic its distinctive aroma and has anti-inflammatory and antioxdiant properties. Selenium, which is an essential micronutrient, acts as an antioxidant and plays a positive role in thyroid function, hormones and its metabolites. Germanium has the ability to improve immune system function and has grown in popularity after its noted affect on cancer patients.
Garlic is also beneficial in reducing cholesterol, slowing the formation of blood clots and assists the body in fighting infection.

Iron
Iron is an important micro-mineral that helps boost energy levels and produces red blood cells. RBCs carry oxygenated blood to working muscle fibres, thus enabling them to perform strength training exercises with intensity and vigour which help burn more calories
Iron supplementation is also important for those showing symptoms of iron deficiency such as Anemia.

Jointcare
Maintaining healthy joints throughout the ageing process and after repeated strenuous activity can be extremely difficult. Supplementing a healthy diet and active lifestyle with glucosamine, chondriotin, EPA and DHA (eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid – found in cod liver oil) and omega 3 fatty acids will support the longevity and health of the body’s joints.

Multivitamins
Multivitamins combine a variety, or all of the essential 13 vitamins required by the body to function efficiently and at optimum levels. Consuming enough food that will supply your body with the recommended daily amount (RDA) of nutrients your body needs is possible, but not easy.
The use of daily multivitamin supplements is an effective solution to combat deficiencies even in a varied and well-balanced diet.

Omegas
Omega-3-6-9 fats are needed for the growth and regeneration of every single cell in the body which is why they have such wide-reaching effects.
These fish oils are essential for the healthy function of the brain, heart, joints, and digestive system. The benefits of these nutritional supplements are clear not only for those involved in regular physical activity but for anyone looking to improve their overall health and vitality.

Probiotics
Probiotics are also called ‘beneficial bacteria, and have been shown to boost immune function via their effects on increasing white blood cell numbers, activity, & effectiveness.
The best-known probiotic is Lactobacillus acidophilus, which is found in yogurt, acidophilus milk, and supplements. Probiotics counter the decimation of helpful intestinal bacteria by antibiotics.

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Postmenopausal women are more likely than men to experience osteopenia and osteoporosis. Osteopenia is a condition that is characterized by the thinning of bones due to loss in calcium and magnesium reserves. If left untreated, osteopenia often leads to osteoporosis, a serious bone disorder that makes one’s bones weak, brittle and porous. Osteoporosis makes elderly susceptible to bone injuries and fractures.

As women age, they stop producing oestrogen, a hormone that performs many functions including the maintenance of health of bones. As a result, bones become thin and soft. The decrease in height, a bow-down position and frequent pain in bones are the warning signs of the osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis can be delayed or even prevented by regularly consuming calcium-rich diets and incorporating an effective exercise regimen into your daily routine.

It also makes a good idea to take a dietary supplement that helps maintain the health of your bones. Lifeplan Calcium & Magnesium Dolomite 800mg is a popular brand that is made from the naturally occurring mineral Dolomite, a good source of calcium and rich source of magnesium. This supplement makes an excellent gift for postmenopausal women and elderly as it helps increase the bone reserves of minerals. It strengthens the bones and helps them regain their natural mineral density. This supplement is registered with the Vegan society and does not make use of salt, added sugar, live yeasts, gluten, lactose, artificial colours, synthetic flavours and animal derivatives in its formulation. Moreover, dolomite is regularly tested for heavy metal contamination and it falls well within the safety levels.

Hypoparathyroidism is a medical condition that refers to the decreased function of the parathyroid glands. This disorder often leads to decreased levels of parathyroid hormone, stunted growth, slow mental development, malformed teeth, anaemia, Addison’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.

The symptoms of hypoparathyroidism include frequent muscle cramps, abdominal pain, convulsions, cataracts, muscle spasms, hand or foot spasms, pain in the legs and face, dry skin and hair, brittle nails, tingling lips, decreased consciousness and painful menstruation.

Causes of hypoparathyroidism include haemochromatosis, DiGeorge syndrome, magnesium deficiency, malabsorption, kidney disease, vitamin D deficiency and trauma to the parathyroid glands.

Diagnosis is made by measurement of PTH (parathyroid hormone) in the blood, serum albumin, cAMP (cyclic AMP) in the urine, and calcium. Treatment includes a regular consumption of diets rich in calcium and vitamin D3, and PTH and calcium supplementation.

HealthAid Calcium Complete 800mg is a popular brand on the market that contains calcium and vitamin D in its formulation. Not only does it help metabolise the body’s minerals and maintain strong bones and healthy teeth, but it also plays an important role in the control of heart beat, muscle, nervous system and other vital organs. It helps relieve the symptoms associated with hypoparathyroidism and makes a perfect gift for women who are going through the menopause and for those on restricted diets or lactose intolerant. Moreover, people undergoing surgery can use this supplement to help ensure blood clots normally. HealthAid Calcium also contains inulin, which helps maintain optimum gut health. Take two tablets daily, preferably in the morning.

Plaque Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that occurs when one’s immune system sends out faulty signals to the skin cells, causing them to reproduce at a much faster rate than normal. This disease is characterized by the appearance of white and red hues of scaly patches on the top of skin. Psoriasis is not contagious which means that it can not be transmitted from a sufferer to a healthy individual through physical contact.

Besides genetics, other factors that may cause plaque psoriasis include viral infections, burns, insect bites, dry skin, sunburn, cancer chemotherapy and AIDS. Symptoms include appearance of red scaly patches on trunk and elbows. Patches are often raised and itchy. One might also experience nail changes, dandruff and joint aching.

Treatment of plaque psoriasis includes phototherapy using ultraviolet light rays, application of creams containing vitamins particularly vitamin A & D, oral intake of multivitamins, and medications.

According to a recent research, vitamin D supplements may positively influence plaque psoriasis. Patients of psoriasis should use a dietary supplement that provides them with vitamin D analogues such as calcipotriol and tacalcitol.

Vitabiotics Osteocare Original Healthy Bones & Calcium makes a rich source of calcium and vitamin D3, along with magnesium and zinc. This supplement contains the preferred D3 form of vitamin D that helps relieve the symptoms associated with psoriasis. Calcium contributes to normal bone growth and development, zinc helps maintain healthy muscles and nerves, whereas magnesium plays a vital role in bone development and helps absorb energy from food.

Lumbago, also known as the back pain, is a discomfort, mild or severe pain in the area of lower back. It can affect people belonging to all age groups, however elderly are more prone to develop this disorder. There are numerous factors that may contribute to the development of lumbago. They include scoliosis (deformation of natural spine curvature), trauma, infection, tumour, slipped disc, skeletal damage, physical stress and osteoporosis.

The symptoms of back pain include stiff back, painful contraction of muscles surrounding the spine, change in posture, difficulty in leaning back and bending forward, mild or severe pain across the lower back, numbness in the back, leg or buttock, and tingling sensation in the back muscles.

In order to reduce the symptoms associated with lumbago, one should avoid sitting on low chairs and sleeping on a hard surface with slopes. A regular physical activity such as walking may help to reduce the pain. A sufferer of chronic back pain may be prescribed with painkillers, muscle relaxants, epidural steroid injections or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Elderly people are more vulnerable to develop osteoporosis than younger people due to the gradual loss in bone mineral density. Therefore, patients of chronic back pain should consume calcium-rich diets. Low-fat milk, vegetables and fruits make rich dietary sources of calcium.

A dietary calcium supplement can also prove effective in this regard. BioCare Calcium Plus with Magnesium & Vitamins is a popular brand on the market that contains calcium, magnesium, vitamins A, D & K, and other minerals in its formulation. It makes a wonderful gift for elderly people and menopausal women as it helps replace lost calcium levels. Calcium helps maintain the health of bones and intestinal tract. Moreover, it helps support vitamin B-12 absorption and iron metabolism. Magnesium and vitamins help support calcium metabolism.

The two sources of vitamin D include diet and exposure to sun. The rich dietary sources of vitamin D include dairy products especially low-fat milk, fish, fish oils, margarine and fortified foodstuffs. The second source of vitamin D is formation of D3 in the skin through exposure to winter sunlight. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to numerous bone disorders particularly osteomalacia and rickets.

Osteomalacia is a bone disorder of adults which is characterized by muscle weakness, bones’ pain and brittle bones. Rickets usually occurs in children aged 10 and below. The symptoms of rickets include visible enlargement of bones at joints and joints’ pain. Children with rickets often experience violent uncontrollable contractions of muscles.

People with vitamin D deficiency should consume diets rich in vitamin D and calcium. An injection of vitamin D2 (calciferol) may be needed for an individual diagnosed with chronic osteomalacia. Vitamin D supplements also make an excellent choice to overcome vitamin D deficiency.

Vitabiotics Osteocare Original Healthy Bones & Calcium has been developed by the leading pharmacists and doctors of UK to provide recommended daily allowances of vitamin D and calcium. This supplement helps maintain strong bones and teeth, as well as the health of nerves, muscles, and heart. The formula also includes magnesium and zinc.

Vitabiotics Osteocare contains the preferred D3 form of vitamin D, which is naturally produced by the action of winter sunlight on a cholesterol-like molecule present in the skin. A regular consumption of this supplement helps reduce the symptoms of osteomalacia and rickets. Zinc and magnesium help in the constant regeneration of bones and help maintain healthy nerves.

2,000 milligrams of sodium a day or about 1 teaspoon of salt should be an ideal dietary goal for young adults. However, middle and old-aged people should not consume more than 1,500 milligrams of sodium. According to numerous researches, high-salt diets elevate blood pressure. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for numerous cardiovascular problems such as heart attack, congestive heart failure and stroke.

Besides, sodium-rich diets contribute to the development of kidney stones. A new research has revealed that high intake of sodium may have a negative effect on the absorption and utilisation of vitamin D in your body. Another study has showed that frequent consumption of sodium-rich diets also increase minerals’ losses particularly calcium in the urine. This might lead to the premature osteoporosis due to decrease in bone density.

In order to maintain the health of your cardiovascular system as well as bones, make sure that you avoid the consumption of high-salt diets. You should also take a dietary supplement that contains supportive nutrients for bone health.

BioCare Osteoplex Magnesium & Calcium Citrate Plus contains calcium citrate, vitamin D, magnesium, boron and beta carotene that help support the body’s requirements for strengthening the skeletal system. Calcium is needed for the formation of bones and teeth as it makes a key constituent of skeletal structure. Magnesium is required for the healthy function of nerves and muscles. It also improves the utilisation of calcium and makes an important co-factor in many enzyme systems and hormones. Vitamin D helps with the uptake of calcium from the diet and is required for healthy skeletal system.

Chronic kidney disease mineral and bone disorder or “Renal Osteodystrophy” is a bone disease that is characterized by the deficiency of bone minerals. This disease usually occurs due to the endocrine and electrolyte disturbances which accompany kidney disease.

The symptoms of renal osteodystrophy might include joint pain, bone pain, bone fracture, bone deformation or joint swelling. It is usually diagnosed with the blood tests that indicate increased parathyroid hormone and decreased calcitriol and calcium.

The treatment for renal osteodystrophy includes restriction of dietary phosphate, consumption of phosphate binders such as calcium acetate, calcium carbonate, lanthanum carbonate, and calcium, vitamin D supplementation. In severe cases, haemodialysis can be done five times a week to relieve the symptoms. Renal transplantation is another solution but it is very costly and is beyond the reach of many patients.

If you are suffering from renal osteodystrophy or any other bone disease, you should use a supplement that provides you with the recommended daily allowances of calcium and vitamin D.

Vitabiotics Osteocare Original Healthy Bones & Calcium makes a rich source of calcium, vitamin D3 and zinc. Calcium with co-factors helps maintain strong teeth and bones, as well as the health of nerves, muscles and heart. This supplement promotes an optimal bone mineralisation, peak bone mass and health of bones.

Vitabiotics Osteocare contains the preferred D3 form of vitamin D. Vitamin D contributes to normal bone development by helping the bones absorb calcium. Moreover, it produces the hormones which maintain healthy levels of phosphorus and calcium in the bones and bloodstream. Zinc helps maintain healthy nerves and constant regeneration of bones.

Calcium plays a vital role in maintaining the strength and health of your bones. It is the body’s most abundant mineral that makes the structure of healthy teeth and bones. Moreover, it plays an important role in the energy metabolism and nerve function. If you do not consume recommended daily allowance (RDA) of calcium, you can develop osteoporosis, osteoarthritis and other bone diseases later in life.

Dairy products make the most common source of dietary calcium. Milk, butter, milk- cream and margarine are high in calcium. However, make sure that you consume low-fat dairy products to avoid the risk of high cholesterol levels and maintain the health of your cardiovascular system.

Vegetables like broccoli, spinach, turnip and dry fruits like peanut and almond are also rich in calcium and they should be incorporated into your dietary plan. It also makes a good idea to use a dietary supplement on a regular basis which contains calcium in its formulation.

Higher Nature True Food Calcium & Magnesium contains equal amounts (one-to-one ratio) of both magnesium and calcium. Magnesium helps maintain hormonal health and supports blood sugar balance. Calcium helps carry out normal blood clotting, energy metabolism and nerve and muscle function.

Higher Nature supplement helps replace magnesium and calcium lost from the diet through modern farming methods, cooking, storage, and environmental factors such as smoking, alcohol, pollution and today’s demanding lifestyle. This supplement is gentle on the stomach and nutrients especially calcium and magnesium are easily digested and absorbed for high bioavailability.

Osteopetrosis, also known as Schonberg Disease or Marble Bone Disease, is a disorder in which bones become harder and denser due to external factors or internal genetic reasons. Compared to other disorders of bones especially osteoporosis in which one’s bones become less dense and more soft and brittle due to growing age, osteopetrosis is characterized by the hardening of bones in the entire body. Osteopetrosis often leads to osteosclerosis, a condition in which one’s bone density increases due to the unknown reasons.

In order to understand how osteopetrosis affects your body, you need to know the process of normal bone growth, which is achieved by a balance between bone formation by osteoblasts and break down of bone matrix by osteoclasts. In this disease, the number of osteoclasts may be increased or reduced. As a result, bone formation persists while its resorption fails. This condition gives rise to an excessive bone formation. However, the bone pathology of the sufferers reveals that parathyroid hormones, alkaline phosphatase, calcium and phosphate levels remain unaffected regardless of the severity of disease.

The major symptoms of osteopetrosis include anaemia, shortening of bones, stunted growth, deformity of joints, increased likelihood of infections and fractures, bone marrow narrowing due to bone expansion, deafness, blindness and facial paralysis. Recent studies have shown that facial changes and blindness result from the pressure that is exerted by the extra bones on the nerves.

As far as the treatment of osteopetrosis is concerned, patients are often prescribed with calcium and vitamin D to treat deformity of joints and stunted growth. In some cases, corticosteroids may prove quite effective to simulate bone resorption. However, the durable cure for osteopetrosis involves bone marrow transplant, which is very expensive and is beyond the reach of an ordinary man.

Healthy dietary habits play an important role in maintaining the health of your joints and bones. In case of a disorder like osteopetrosis, it becomes even more important that you incorporate bone-healthy diets into your daily dietary routine. Cheese, fat-free milk, fruits and winter-sunlight provide your body with recommended daily allowances of calcium and vitamin D. Fish oils especially cod liver oils contain omega-3 fatty acids, which make your joints supple and flexible.

It is also a good idea to use joint care and calcium supplements on a regular basis. Seven Seas Jointcare Advanced 30s is a wonderful formula that contains omega-3, glucosamine and chondroitin. Glucosamine helps in rebuilding of the connective tissues around ligaments, cartilage and tendons, whereas chondroitin helps lubricate your joints. Essential omega-3 nutrients such as DHA and EPA maintain joints mobility by keeping them flexible.

Vitabiotics Osteocare Original Healthy Bones & Calcium is a hot brand on the market that contains calcium, vitamin D3, zinc and magnesium in its formulation. Calcium helps maintain strong bones and teeth, whereas vitamin D contributes to normal bone growth and development. Zinc helps in the constant regeneration of bones and magnesium helps release energy from foods.