Vitamin Savvy

Influenced from my friend, it has always been the trend well at least for me, to get supplies in bulk so that when my pennies are a-counting, I will not have to worry about buying expensive supplements. I got a great deal from watson's and have settled my vitamin b complex, iron and vitamin C binge.

Smart consumerism goes hand in hand with ample research and background study of products that we consume. The following is something I picked up from my supplements.

Brands' Iron + Vitamin B Complex (which contains)

Iron -

Iron is needed for the production of hemoglobin and myoglobin (the form of hemoglobin found in muscle tissue) which requires this nutrient.

It is also needed for the oxygenation of red blood cells, a healthy immune system and for energy production.

Vitamin B2 - Riboflavin

Riboflavin is further needed to activate vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), helps to create niacin and assists the adrenal gland. It may be used for red blood cell formation, antibody production, cell respiration, and growth.

It eases watery eye fatigue and may be helpful in the prevention and treatment of cataracts. Vitamin B2 is required for the health of the mucus membranes in the digestive tract and helps with the absorption of iron and vitamin B6.

Although it is needed for periods of rapid growth, it is also needed when protein intake is high, and is most beneficial to the skin, hair and nails (definite bonus).

Vitamin B6 - Pyridoxine

Pyridoxine is required for the balancing of hormonal changes in women as well as assisting the immune system and the growth of new cells. It is also used in the processing and metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, while assisting with controlling your mood as well as your behavior. Pyridoxine might also be of benefit for children with learning difficulties, as well as assisting in the prevention of dandruff, eczema and psoriasis.

Women in particular may suffer from pre-menstrual fluid retention, severe period pains, emotional PMS symptoms, premenstrual acne and nausea in early pregnancy. Mood swings, depression as well as loss of sexual drive is sometimes noted when pyridoxine is in short supply and the person is on hormone replacement therapy or on birth control pills.

B12 - Cyanocobamin

Cyanocobamin is needed in the manufacture of red blood cells and the maintenance of red blood cells and it stimulates appetite (not really good for me), promotes growth ( I want to grow taller) and release energy. It is often used with older people to give an energy boost, assist in preventing mental deterioration and helps with speeding up thought processes. Some people are also of the opinion that it helps with clearing up infections and provide protection against allergies and cancer. This vitamin is also used in the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates.

Flavettes Vitamin C

Vitamin C is required in the synthesis of collagen in connective tissue, neurotransmitters, steroid hormones, carnitine, conversion of cholesterol to bile acids and enhances iron bioavailability. Ascorbic acid is a great antioxidant and helps protect the body against pollutants.

Because vitamin C is a biological reducing agent, it is also linked to prevention of degenerative diseases - such as cataracts, certain cancers and cardiovascular diseases.

Ascorbic acid also promotes healthy cell development, proper calcium absorption, normal tissue growth and repair - such as healing of wounds and burns. It assists in the prevention of blood clotting and bruising, and strengthening the walls of the capillaries.

Vitamin C is needed for healthy gums, to help protect against infection, and assisting with clearing up infections and is thought to enhance the immune system and help reduce cholesterol levels, high blood pressure and preventing arteriosclerosis.

Phew! What a long read. Keeps me on my toes and lets me know what it is I am feeding my system. I think it is good practise to read up on all our supplements.

Data on vitamins & minerals, taken from www.anyvitamins.com