Vitamins and supplements like melatonin and fish oil offer health benefits but can cause side effects if misused. Learn about the impact of saw palmetto on blood pressure and find the best multivitamins for young women and adults over 50.
Cysteine is an amino acid, which functions as a building block of proteins. When used as a supplement, cysteine is generally in the form of N-acetyl-L-cysteine, or NAC. Your body converts NAC into cysteine and then into an antioxidant called glutathione.
Read more →
During pregnancy, your body requires potassium to function at its best. An essential mineral, potassium helps maintain fluid and electrolyte balance. It also plays a significant role in the transmission of nerve impulses, contraction of your muscles and release of energy from carbohydrates, fat and protein.
Read more →
Every organ in your body, including your muscles, heart and kidneys, needs magnesium to function properly. Magnesium helps regulate your body’s calcium levels and contributes to production of energy. Men need 420 milligrams of magnesium per day, while women require 320 milligrams.
Read more →
As you age, your need for some nutrients increases; if you are a man over 50, you require higher intakes of calcium and vitamin D. Eating nutrient-dense foods can help you fulfill your requirements. But if you follow poor dietary habits, you are at risk for nutritional deficiencies, says Victoria J.
Read more →
You have diarrhea when you pass loose, watery stools more than three times a day. You may also experience nausea, cramping, bloating and bowel urgency. Diarrhea is generally not harmful, but it can become serious.
Read more →
Your body needs vitamin C, a water-soluble vitamin, to manufacture collagen, which is a structural component of cartilage, ligament, tendons, blood vessels and skin. The vitamin also helps heal wounds and repair your bones and teeth. Vitamin C comes in many forms, including chewables, capsules and tablets.
Read more →
Vitamin A, a fat-soluble vitamin, supports cell growth and differentiation. It helps keep your eyes healthy and plays an active role in the development of an embryo and fetus. It is essential in keeping skin and mucous membranes that line the mouth, sinuses and nose in a healthy condition.
Read more →
Iron, an essential mineral, forms an integral part of enzymes and proteins necessary for vibrant health. The majority of your body’s iron is found in red blood cells, which transport oxygen. The recommended daily intake of iron for men is 8 milligrams and for women is 18 milligrams. According to the U.S.
Read more →
Commonly known as reishi mushroom, Ganoderma lucidum is a purple-brown fungus with a long, thin stalk, spores that are brown in color and a shiny cap shaped like a fan. The mushroom grows on decaying logs and tree stumps.
Read more →
Found naturally in your body as calcium fluoride, fluoride helps prevent cavities and helps develop strong, healthy teeth. Adult men need 4 milligrams of fluoride per day, whereas adult women require 3 milligrams, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Read more →
If you experience shortness of breath or struggle to find strength for completing your daily work activities, your doctor may ask you to undergo blood tests, including a complete blood count.
Read more →