Vitamins and their Health Benefits
Why is it that the moment we feel a cold coming on, one of the first things we think about is chicken soup? There’s more to it than just your mother’s advice or old wives tails. Ancient Egyptians actually “prescribed” chicken soup for the common cold. So why? What’s the deal with chicken soup? It’s the vitamins! Sr. Stephen Rennard, professor of pulmonary and critical care medicine at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, has completed research that found the blend of vitamins and nutrients in chicken soup may slow the activity of white blood cells. This slowing causes an anti-inflammatory effect that may lead to the temporary alleviation of the symptoms of the flu.
Chicken soup isn’t the only “miracle cure” for what ails you. Vitamins have been used for centuries for the cure, relief and rehabilitation of many people for many different health issues and concerns. We’ve compiled some of the most popular vitamins and their benefits for you.
Please note, vitamins are drugs, and as with all medicines, may have serious side effects or dangerous interactions. Before you begin any vitamin regime, you should consult with your doctor or other health professional to determine what treatment is best for you and your particular condition.
Calcium – Extremely important for strong bones and teeth, Calcium helps fight osteoporosis. In some people it can prevent muscle or leg cramps and lower blood pressure. Calcium reduces stomach acid, helps regulate the heart, supports healthy blood clotting, helps prevent kidney stones and can reduce the threat of colon cancer. It helps in the healing of bone fractures and eases the symptoms of menopause.
Chondroitin Sulfate – May help in the reduction of cholesterol. Chondroitin Sulfate is an anti-inflammatory vitamin; it eases the pain for gout sufferers and may diminish osteoarthritis symptoms. It promotes healthy joint movement.
Ginko Biloba – Works on the brain to increase circulation and as a result has been used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, depression, Raynaud’s disease, tinnitus, vertigo, allergies, vision loss due to aging and peripheral vascular disease. It aids in concentration and emotional fatigue. It also promotes circulation to the lower extremities and treats hardening of the arterites.
Folate (folic acid) – Aids in the production of red blood cells, tissue growth and cell function. Folic acid is usually prescribed for pregnant women to aid in the development of the fetus.
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