We most often equate vitamins with physical health. But what about vitamins and nutrients for vim and vigor? This week, writers discuss how vitamins and nutrients promote both looking and feeling good.
Weight and Low Vitamin D Levels
More than one-third or 35.7 percent of U.S. adults are obese. Writer Diane Dean discusses the connection between low vitamin D levels and obesity and weight gain in older adults and teens. Regardless of which came first (obesity or low vitamin D levels), a link clearly exists!
Writer Kristen Curzytek discusses the antioxidant and energy-saving effects of vitamins like vitamins C, E, A, K and B12 for health for those over 50. She also outlines tasty foods that contain these knights in shining armor! The Healthy Living blog outlines the same for those of all ages!
Weil Advises on Nutrition for Health
Dr. Andrew Weil lists the five foods to reduce the risk of stroke and help health. These magnesium-rich foods include: green leafy veggies, nuts and seeds, whole grains, black beans and seafood. Shop the outside aisles of your grocery store and stock up on these beauties to live a healthful life as you age.
Heal That Summer Cold With Some Vitamin C
There’s not much worse than a nagging cough and sniffling and sneezing in the middle of summer. Kate W discusses the how getting enough vitamin C prevents illness and helps healing of all things sick!
Is Vitamin C the New Anti-Wrinkle Cream?
Writer Ana Johnson outlines a recent study that found that low vitamin C intake was the number one culprit of wrinkles. As an antioxidant, vitamin C reduces the harmful effects of free radicals created by many factors including smoking, processed foods and pollution, thus preserving smooth and glowing skin.
Keeping Kids Healthy and Happy
Blogger Salynn Boyles highlights research noting how vitamin D speeds healing. A study noted that kids with low vitamin D levels had worse outcomes when they were very ill. Keep your young ones smiling with a good dose of vitamin D daily!
Need energy? Get vitamin B12! Writer Diane Dean discusses how low vitamin B12 levels sink energy levels. Diane outlines those at high risk of such having low vitamin B12 levels, like vegetarians and those taking medications to reduce stomach acid, among others. She discusses the signs of low vitamin B12 levels, and lists foods to down to ensure you get enough of this energy enhancer.
Writer Brandi Abbey outlines vitamins needed for good hair health. Biotin, vitamins A, E, B5 and inositol improve the elasticity and luster of the hair, as well as prevent early graying. Read on to find food and vitamin sources crucial for healthy locks.
Inactivity as Deadly as Smoking?
Many dangers exist for couch-potato behavior. Writer Diane Dean outlines the draw backs of leading a sedentary life. A recent study notes that one-third of adults do not exercise as they should, and one in ten deaths result from diseases from inactive lifestyles, like heart disease and diabetes.
Vitamin D3 for Allergies and Skin Health
Blogger “Ruth” discussed why you should choose vitamin D3 over D2. She also outlines research noting vitamin D’s role in immune and lung health, especially allergies, skin problems and asthma. Read on to see how vitramin D3 can subdue your symptoms.
Writer Ana Johnson infuses a bit of her biology knowledge while discussing the effect of vitamins on DNA health. As the tips of DNA strands (called telomeres) help cells divide over time, they shorten, which promotes cell death. Those taking vitamins retained longer gene tips, likely as a result of the vitamins’ antioxidant effect. Taking vitamins may hold your wrinkles at bay!
That’s it for the week! Make sure to check back in with us next week, when we discuss B vitamin deficiencies and what to do about them.
Diane Dean, RN-BC, LPC, CEG is a licensed registered nurse, professional counselor, professionally-trained coach and medical writer with 20+ years of healthcare experience. She owns and operates Epiphany! Counseling and Wellness Center in Pittsburgh, PA.
Resources:
- http://smartypantsvitamins.com/blog/
- http://www.onereversemortgage.com/reverse-mortgage-blog/2012/08/the-importance-of-vitamins-for-older-americans/
- http://www.healthywestvirginia.org/vitamins-are-very-important-for-healthy-living/
- http://nutrivize.com/blog/general-health/orange-you-glad-you-took-your-vitamin-c/
- http://children.webmd.com/news/20120806/vitamin-d-deficiency-common-sick-kids
- http://whatallergy.com/2012-08/vitamin-d3-for-allergies-and-skin-health
