Important for: Absorption and utilisation of calcium and phosphorus; normal growth of bones and teeth in children; a properly functioning thyroid; enhancing immunity; maintaining a stable nervous system and normal heart action.
Sources: Found in; fish liver oil; fatty saltwater fish; dairy products and eggs. Also found in; halibut; liver; oatmeal; salmon; sweet potatoes; vegetable oils.
Herbs; (e.g. alfalfa; nettle; and parsley)
Possible deficiency symptoms: Excessive tooth decay; muscular weakness; loss of appetite; insomnia; weight loss.
ADVERTISEMENTS:
Hinders maximum absorption: Cholesterol reducing drugs, mineral oils and steroids interfere with the body’s absorption of vitamin D.
Additional Information: Vitamin D is obtained both by mgesting and by spontaneous formation in the skin by the sun via a photochemical reaction in the epidermis.
Liver and gallbladder disorders also reduce absorption.
Important for: Slowing cellular aging and damage from oxidation; preventing red blood cell damage and nerve destruction; improving circulation; blood clotting; maintaining healthy muscles and nerves; strengthening capillary walls; healthy skin; preventing anemia;
ADVERTISEMENTS:
Sources: Found in; dark green leafy vegetables; greens; nuts; seeds; and whole grains.
Additional sources include; brown rice; cornmeal; eggs; kelp; desiccated liver; milk; oatmeal; soybeans; sweet potatoes; watercress; wheat; and wheat germ. Herbs; (e.g. alfalfa; bladder wrack; dandelion; nettle; oat straw; raspberry leaf; rosehips)
Possible deficiency symptoms: Skin disorders; reduced sexual libido; loss of reproductive drive.
Hinders maximum absorption: Air pollution, contraceptive pills and excessive processed fats and oils can all hinder absorption of vitamin E by the body.
ADVERTISEMENTS:
Additional Information: A major antioxidant.
The body requires zinc to maintain a proper level of vitamin E in the bloodstream.