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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Flax, also known as linseed, is an herbaceous, annual plant that belongs to the family Linaceae of the plants. The seeds of flax contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, lignans, dietary fibre, protein, carbohydrate, sugar, fat, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, folate, vitamin C, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, iron and zinc.

Ten grams of ground flaxseed supply about 45 kilocalories, 2.8 grams of fibre, 4.1 grams of fat and 2 grams of protein. Flax seed is the source of flaxseed oil or linseed oil that offers numerous health benefits to its consumers.

Flaxseed oil makes an excellent home remedy for premenstrual syndrome and dandruff. A regular consumption of flaxseed oil helps improve immune system and relieves the symptoms of eczema and acne. It helps lower cholesterol levels and stabilizes blood sugar levels. Flaxseed oil helps relieve constipation due to its high dietary fibre and lignan contents. Researches show that flaxseed oil may benefit individuals with certain types of prostrate, stomach, colon and breast cancers. It helps heel bruises and sprains and relieves the symptoms of asthma. Omega-3 nutrients in the flaxseed oil help prevent gall disorders, arthritis and heart ailments.

Essential fatty acids are very important for the health of your cardiovascular system because they reduce the LDL level and thin your blood. Another advantage of essential fatty acids is that they prevent hardening of the veins and arteries.
Therefore, it becomes very important that you use foods which provide your body with essential fatty acids on a regular basis. Natural oils such as salmon oil, primrose oil, flaxseed oil and black currant seed oil make a good source of essential fatty acids and are used in many dietary supplements to meet your body’s daily need for essential fatty acids.

A molecule of fat contains several fatty acids. Fats may be classified as unsaturated or saturated. Unsaturated fats are further categorized as monounsaturated or polyunsaturated. Moreover, unsaturated fatty acids are classified as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Unsaturated fats mainly come from plant sources and are considered healthier than saturated fats which typically come from animal sources. Important food sources of unsaturated fats include flaxseed oil and olive oil.

Recent researches have revealed that omega nutrients (omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids) help improve brain power and promote high intellectual level. The research was carried out on two groups of young children aged 7-14. The first group was given a combination of omega-3 and omega-9 fatty acids for 3 months, while the second was not. After 3 months, children who were consuming omega nutrients showed a significant improvement in hyperactivity, behaviour, attention levels, reading skills and short-term memory.

If your child has a deficiency of omega-nutrients, you should consider either increasing the amount of oily fish in his or her diet, or giving a dietary supplement. The rich dietary sources of omega nutrients include salmon, mackerel, trout, flax seeds, walnuts, soy, pumpkin seeds and canola oil. Omega eggs also make a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. The hens that lay these eggs are fed on feeds that contain omega nutrients.

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Vasculitis, also known as Angiitis or Arteritis, is a medical condition that is characterized by the inflammation of the vascular system. There are numerous diseases that feature inflammation of the blood vessels such as giant cell arteritis, Kawasaki disease, Wegener’s granulomatosis, Behcet’s disease, Takayasu’s arteritis and cryoglobulinemia. Other diseases and factors that may give rise to the vasculitis include hepatitis, cancers such as multiple myeloma and lymphoma, rheumatoid arthritis, medications and exposure to chemicals such as cocaine.

The actual cause of arteritis is still unknown; however immune system abnormality and family history are believed to play a key role in the onset of this disease. Vasculitis is diagnosed with the laboratory testing of body fluids or blood. Treatment options include immune suppression drugs and cortisone-related medications. The aim of treatment is to suppress the immune system and reduce the inflammation of blood vessels. A sufferer of vasculitis should also consume heart-healthy foods such as cod liver oil and fish oils to improve the health of vascular system.

It also makes a good idea to take a dietary supplement that makes use of omega-3 polyunsaturates, DHA and EPA in its formulation. HealthAid Omegazon™ Blister Pack (Omega 3 Fish Oil) is a valuable supplement that is virtually free of all known impurities such as dioxins, furans, lead and mercury. Not only does it help maintain a healthy blood circulation and skin, but it also helps reduce blood cholesterol levels and improves joints and brain functions. HealthAid Omegazon helps support immune function by regulating inflammation.

Huntington’s disease, also known as Huntington’s chorea, is an inherited disease that affects the nervous system. If one of your parents has this disease, you have a high chance of getting it. Huntington’s chorea causes certain nerve cells and neurons in the brain to waste away. As a result, a sufferer finds it very difficult to concentrate, read, remember or recognize family members.

Other symptoms of Huntington’s disease include uncontrolled movements, balance problems, clumsiness, fatigue and tiredness. In chronic patients, Huntington’s chorea takes away their ability to swallow, walk or even talk. However, most of them are able to express emotions and can recognize their environment.

The gene of this disease can be diagnosed with a blood test. Treatment aims at reducing some of the symptoms of Huntington’s disease.

There are certain supplements on the market that help maintain the health of nerve cells and improve brain function. Equazen Eye Q Omega-3 Fish Oil is a popular brand on the market that makes use of fish oil, Eicsapentaenoic Acid, Docosahexaaenoic Acid, Gamma Linolenic Acid, Evening Primrose Oil and Natural Vitamin E in its formulation. This supplement makes an excellent way to provide you with omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids. They are called essential because they have to come from diet as your body can’t produce them. These essential fatty acids play an important role in maintaining the health of your brain and improving certain aspects of brain function such as concentrating and learning ability. Take two capsules per day with food.

Most smokers are unaware of the fact that smoking causes age-related macular degeneration and blindness. Macular is the central part of the retina at the back of the eye that catches light and provides vision. This disease makes it hard to recognize faces, drive or read. Macular degeneration may lead to blindness as it causes irreversible loss of central vision. It is a progressive disease and it commonly affects people over 60 years of age. However, a recent research has revealed that smokers may develop macular degeneration about 15 years earlier than non-smokers.

The symptoms of age-related macular degeneration include blurred vision, atrophy, distorted vision, haemorrhages in the eye, and slow recovery of visual function after an exposure to bright light.

The number of cigarettes smoked and the number of years you smoke increase the risk of macular degeneration. According to various studies, passive smoking also increases risk of blindness, cataracts and macular degeneration. However, the good news is that this disorder can be prevented by quitting smoking. If you quit smoking, your risk of vision loss decreases and 15 years after quitting, your risk of developing macular degeneration is the same as someone who has never smoked.

Make sure that you use a dietary supplement that takes care of your eye health. Vitabiotics Aquamarine 2 in 1 Omega-3 & Cod Liver Oil is a popular brand on the market that makes an ideal combination of vitamins A, D & E, omega-3 and cod liver oils. Vitamin A or retinol plays an important role in maintaining the health of your eyes and promoting skin health. Vitamin D promotes strong bones and improves immune system. Vitamin E works at cellular level to protect against carcinogens and potentially harmful radicals. Omega-3 nutrients help maintain the health of cardiovascular system, joints, brain and eye.

Pelvic pain is a typical medical condition of women before and after menstruation that is characterized by the pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen below the navel.

Although there are many reasons that may lead to lower abdominal pain such as inflammation of the bladder, kidney stones, bladder stones, inflammation of the kidneys, tumours, diarrhoea, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome, pelvic pain due to menstruation includes severe pain in uterus, ovaries, fallopian tube, and pain during intercourse. Other conditions of the reproductive organs that might lead to pelvic pain include dysmenorrhoea, ovarian cysts, pelvic inflammatory disease, fibroids and endometriosis.

Maxitone Finesse Omega Fish Oil makes an excellent dietary supplement for women with pelvic pain because it helps reduce the pain associated with menstruation. This supplement contains GLA that supports female well-being. Moreover, it contains pure omega 3 and omega 6 oils which your body cannot produce on its own. Not only does it support your personal health and body goals, but it also supports weight loss goals. A regular intake of this supplement helps optimise your nutrition and produces real weight loss and toning results.

Moreover, a perfect blend of omega 3 and omega 6 nutrients from pure Borage oil helps you keep looking great and young because it promotes beautiful hair, skin and nails. Another benefit of Maxitone Finesse oil is that it strengthens your immune system and develops your personal well being. Make sure that you take 4 capsules spread across the day with meals and water.

A healthy cardiovascular system is mandatory for your overall well-being. You can reduce your chances of getting heart diseases by performing a regular physical activity and eating healthy. You should incorporate a combination of cardio as well as strength training exercises into your daily routine.

For a healthy heart, you should consume fewer calories, less fat, less sodium and more fibre. Fresh fruits and green leafy vegetables make excellent food sources that are low in calories and high in fibre. The food label can also help you consume fewer calories and less sodium. You should carefully read through the food labels and look for certain words like lightly salted, reduced or less sodium, low-calorie, reduced or fewer calories, low-cholesterol and low saturated fat. If you find any one or a combination of them, do not purchase that particular food item. Make sure that you substitute processed and hard cheeses for low-sodium, low-fat cheeses.

You can also use a dietary supplement that helps maintain the health of your cardiovascular system. Boditronics Bodipure Omega 3 1000mg Fish Oil Capsules contains the fatty acids DHA and EPA which offer numerous health benefits. Each capsule contains 120mg DHA and 180mg EPA. This supplement is known to provide a range of body functions related to the cardiovascular system, brain, eyes, skin and inflammatory response. If you consume less than one portion of oily fish such as herring, tuna or mackerel a week, then this supplement makes an excellent gift for you. You should take one capsule three times a day with food.

The health benefits of fish oils are not limited to providing the protection against the cardiovascular diseases and joint problems. A research that was conducted by a group of scientists at the University of South Australia showed that fish oils also aid in weight loss process.

In fact, fish oil tends to improve the efficacy of cardio as well as strength training exercises in reducing weight. Exercisers who were given a fish oil diet or supplement showed greater fat loss as compared to those individuals who did not consume fish oils.

The various types of fish make a good source of fish oil. They include sardines, salmon, mackerel, sea bass, herring, swordfish, oyster, tuna, trout, halibut, pilchard, turbot, anchovies and cat fish.

You can also use a dietary supplement that makes use of fish oil in its formulation. Pharma Nord Bio Marine Plus Omega-3 Fish Oil is a popular brand on the market that helps achieve your weight loss objectives when used with a combination of low-calorie diet plan and regular physical activity. Each capsule of Bio-Marine Plus contains 500 mg of fish oil in the form of free fatty acids, corresponding to a DHA content of 118mg/capsule and an EPA content of 166mg/capsule, 1 microgram of vitamin B-12 and 100 microgram of folic acid.

The addition of folic acid and vitamin B-12 to fish oil reduces menstrual pain and eliminates the risk of congenital birth defects. Make sure that you consume 1-2 capsules 1-2 times daily. This supplement makes use of fish oils obtained from fish found in the South East Pacific and Northern Atlantic oceans.

A regular physical activity is essential for the health and well being of an individual. Numerous heart diseases are directly linked to a lack of physical exercise. Heart is a very important muscle in your body that requires exercise to stay healthy so that it can efficiently pump the blood with every heartbeat. It is advisable to stick to an effective exercise regimen to maintain the health of your cardiovascular system.

An effective exercise regimen should be comprised of a combination of cardio exercises and strength training workouts. Cardio or aerobic exercises include running on a treadmill, jogging, bicycling, swimming, skipping and stairs climbing. These exercises increase your heartbeat, which make your heart to pump the blood at a much faster pace. This, in turn, strengthens your heart muscles and arteries. Strength training exercises such as lunges, squats, deadlifts, shrugs and bench press help burn the calories and increase the size of your skeletal muscles.

You should also use a dietary supplement that promotes heart health and vitality. Vitabiotics Omega-H3 Multivitamins is a wide spectrum supplement with vitamins, amino acids, minerals, cod liver oil, garlic and ginseng. Cod liver oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids that help maintain the health of your cardiovascular system.

Garlic helps maintain healthy blood pressure and balances cholesterol levels in the blood. Omega-H3 also contains B vitamins, folic acid, zinc and iron essential to the formation of red blood cells, which supply nutrients and oxygen to all over the body including heart.

Variant or Prinzmetal angina is a type of angina that is caused by a coronary artery spasm. Muscle fibres surround the walls of the arteries. A sudden spasm or narrowing of the arteries may occur due to the rapid contraction of these muscle fibres. Narrowing of the coronary arteries reduces the supply of blood to the heart muscle and may cause angina.

Variant angina usually occurs in the early morning hours or during rest. Coronary artery spasm can also occur in those arteries narrowed by arteriosclerosis. Use of nicotine and cocaine can also cause prinzmetal angina and the spasm of artery wall can lead to a heart attack.

In order to avoid the risk of coronary artery spasm, one must quit smoking and use of nicotine. There are certain heart-healthy foods such as salmon, mackerel, nuts, whole grains and wheat germ that can help maintain the health of your cardiovascular system. These foods contain omega-3 fatty acids and B-vitamins that play an important role in maintaining the health of your heart.

You can also take a dietary supplement on a regular basis that makes use of omega-3 fatty acids in its formulation. Natrol Extreme Omega 3 Fish Oil is a popular brand on the market that supports cardiovascular health, cognitive health, joint health and balanced mood with the super-powered benefits of fish oil. It contains essential omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA and DHA in its formulation that are essential for maintaining the health of heart. A daily serving of this supplement provides 430 mg of DHA and 646 mg EPA fatty acids.