The investigation of families with a history of neural-tube birth defects, such as spina bifida and anencephaly, and those with a history of Down syndrome, suggests both may arise from a lack of folic acid.
Investigators embarked on the research project after previous studies suggested folic acid impacts the chromosomal abnormality known to cause Down’s. Since abnormal metabolism of folic acid has been established as a risk factor for neural-tube defects, researchers wondered if it might also play a role in Down’s.
The study involved about 490 families with a history of neural-tube defects and about 500 with a history of Down syndrome. The goal was to see if families with neural-tube defects also had more Down’s births than would be expected and vice versa.
An analysis of the families showed just that. Researchers found more than five-times the number of Down syndrome births in the families at high risk for neural-tube defect and a similar increased incidence of neural-tube defect births in the families at high risk for Down’s.
Study author Howard Cuckle concludes, “This study provides direct evidence of a link between Down syndrome and NTD. Folate supplementation before conception has the potential to reduce the frequency of Down syndrome.”
In an accompanying editorial, other scientists encourage caution before prescribing these supplements to prevent Down syndrome, noting the current study may have overestimated the connection. Still, they, too, believe it holds promise. The authors write, “...Although the report is somewhat provocative, it may well be the first epidemiological indication of the existence of a mechanism which could be used at a later stage in the primary prevention of Down syndrome.”
SOURCE: The Lancet, 2003;361:1331-1335,1316
Showing posts with label Folic Acid. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Folic Acid. Show all posts
Friday, November 19, 2010
Vitamins for birth defects
Imagine a vitamin so powerful it reduces the risk of heart disease, colon cancer and even certain birth defects. Such a vitamin does exist, but most people don't get enough of it.
Even before Dietitian Elizabeth Ward got pregnant with baby Emma, she ate a diet rich in folic acid -- a "B" vitamin that prevents certain birth defects. "The recommendation is that all women in their child-bearing years, which are technically 14 to 50 years, who are capable of becoming pregnant, get 400 micrograms of folic acid every day," she says.
Folic acid works its magic during the first four weeks after conception, a time many women don't know they're pregnant, a time many don't pay attention to diet.
The Centers For Disease Control and Prevention and two dozen other groups have begun a nationwide campaign to promote the power of folic acid.
Whether from multivitamin pills, grain products or foods like asparagus and orange juice, health experts say folic acid can reduce most cases of spina bifida and other serious birth defects.
Elizabeth says, "It's much better to have a fortified cereal than it is to grab a bagel in the morning, and this is something women do all the time. Who knows if that bagel was made with enriched flour that contained folic acid?"
Besides birth defects, folic acid appears to lower the risk of heart disease and colon cancer. Edward Giovannucci, M.D., a nutritional epidemiologist at Harvard Medical School in Cambridge, Mass., says, "We did a study of 90,000 women and found that women who had been taking a multivitamin with folic acid for 10 or 15 years or longer had a 75 percent lower risk of colon cancer."
Eating right and taking a multivitamin pill for good measure are simple ways to get the folic acid you need every day.
Not all vitamins supplements are optimal for pregnant women. So women who are pregnant or anticipating getting pregnant should consult their physician about taking a supplement.
Source: Ivanhoe News
Even before Dietitian Elizabeth Ward got pregnant with baby Emma, she ate a diet rich in folic acid -- a "B" vitamin that prevents certain birth defects. "The recommendation is that all women in their child-bearing years, which are technically 14 to 50 years, who are capable of becoming pregnant, get 400 micrograms of folic acid every day," she says.
Folic acid works its magic during the first four weeks after conception, a time many women don't know they're pregnant, a time many don't pay attention to diet.
The Centers For Disease Control and Prevention and two dozen other groups have begun a nationwide campaign to promote the power of folic acid.
Whether from multivitamin pills, grain products or foods like asparagus and orange juice, health experts say folic acid can reduce most cases of spina bifida and other serious birth defects.
Elizabeth says, "It's much better to have a fortified cereal than it is to grab a bagel in the morning, and this is something women do all the time. Who knows if that bagel was made with enriched flour that contained folic acid?"
Besides birth defects, folic acid appears to lower the risk of heart disease and colon cancer. Edward Giovannucci, M.D., a nutritional epidemiologist at Harvard Medical School in Cambridge, Mass., says, "We did a study of 90,000 women and found that women who had been taking a multivitamin with folic acid for 10 or 15 years or longer had a 75 percent lower risk of colon cancer."
Eating right and taking a multivitamin pill for good measure are simple ways to get the folic acid you need every day.
Not all vitamins supplements are optimal for pregnant women. So women who are pregnant or anticipating getting pregnant should consult their physician about taking a supplement.
Source: Ivanhoe News
Friday, November 5, 2010
B Vitamins, Iron, Glucosamine and Chondroitin, Ginkgo biloba, St. John’s wort and Vitamin K
B Vitamins
Because B vitamins help extract energy from food, supplement marketers would like you to believe that getting more through pills or fortified drinks will give you a power boost. Truth is, most people get plenty of B vitamins in their diet; more won’t necessarily make you more energetic. Other benefits of extra Bs need to be confirmed by further research. Evidence suggests that taking a combo of B6, B12, and folic acid might cut the risk of age-related macular degeneration. Researchers were once hopeful that B12 and folate could protect the heart, but recent research has proved disappointing. What’s more, some women take biotin to combat hair loss, a symptom of severe biotin deficiency, but we couldn’t find studies that showed it helps prevent or treat the problem.
Vegetarians, since B12 is found largely in animal derived foods, and people older than 50, because the stomach acid needed to absorb B12 diminishes with age. The amount of B12 in a typical multivitamin, 6 micrograms, is usually sufficient. Many pregnant women opt for the high levels of folic acid found in prenatal vitamins to help prevent neural tube defects in the developing fetus. Some preliminary evidence suggests that biotin might increase nail thickness in those who have brittle nails. If you want to try it, take 2.5 to 3 milligrams daily for four to six months.
Iron
Adolescent girls, premenopausal women, and athletes are at risk of iron deficiency. Women might need to compensate for iron lost through menstrual bleeding. And as we get older, we don’t always absorb the mineral well. Women who have lengthy or heavy periods and / or symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating should consider taking iron supplements. Get tested before you take supplemental iron. The amount found in some multivitamins formulas is fine for most people, but extra iron could be dangerous if you don’t need it. If your doctor gives you the green light, start with one of the inexpensive iron salts – ferrous sulfate, ferrous fumerte, or ferrous gluconate. If those leave you constipated or nauseated, two possible side effects, try a slow-release version or try iron-polysaccharide complex. Also keep in mind that iron is best absorbed on an empty stomach, but if you can’t tolerate that, you can take it with food. A small serving of meat and a vitamin C-rich food such as spinach or turnip greens is best.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin
If you have join pain and stiffness, you might have osteoarthritis, which occurs when cartilage breaks down. Evidence is mixed on whether those supplements effectively alleviate symptoms. In one big trial they didn’t work any better than a placebo for people with just mild symptoms but did provide significant relief for those with moderate to severe pain. Those who suffer from moderate to severe osteoarthritis pain should consider taking it. Record your symptoms and stop in three months if you don’t improve. Glucosamine is made from shells of sea creature,s so talk to your doctor if you have a seafood allergy. The study used 1,500 milligrams of glucosamine and 1,200 milligrams of chondroitin sulfate, split into three doses. Your best choice is probably glucosamine sulfate alone (also called glucosamine sulfate salt).
Ginkgo biloba
This herb is used by people to enhance memory and mental focus and stave off cognitive decline. But we haven’t seen conclusive scientific evidence that it really works. It’s also worth emphasizing that ginkgo can cause bleeding and interact with other medications.
St. John’s wort
It’s widely considered a natural antidepressant. A recent review involving 29 trials and almost 5,500 patients showed that it improved symptoms better than a placebo and worked about as well as prescription antidepressants. The results are promising, but the studies were of short duration and some were of questionable quality, and the makeup of supplements varied. If you have mild or moderate depression, St. John’s wort might be beneficial. But it can cause side effects, such as stomach problems and possibly a decreased enjoyment of sex. It can also interfere with a long list of medications, including certain antidepressants, birth-control pills, and drugs for high cholesterol and migraine. Talk to your doctor before you start taking St. John’s wort. Most studies used 500 milligrams to 1,200 milligrams of extract daily.
Vitamin K
Research is conflicting, but two large studies, the Framingham Heart Study and Nurses’ Health Study, have linked lower intakes of vitamin K to a higher risk of fractures. Most people get plenty of vitamin K, but consider supplements if you seldom eat K-rich foods such as green leafy vegetables and soybean, canola, or olive oils. Rather than taking a separate pill, you can take a multivitamin or calcium supplement that includes K. for optimum bone health, some experts think women should get more than the currently recommended 90 micrograms daily.
Supplements to support your overall health but not to treat your disease:
USANA Vitamins Supplements Procosa II has ground-breaking formula that supports optimal joint health. To help support healthy joints, USANA created Procosa® II supplement, a product with a blend of glucosamine, manganese, vitamin C, and silicon—building blocks for healthy cartilage.
Because B vitamins help extract energy from food, supplement marketers would like you to believe that getting more through pills or fortified drinks will give you a power boost. Truth is, most people get plenty of B vitamins in their diet; more won’t necessarily make you more energetic. Other benefits of extra Bs need to be confirmed by further research. Evidence suggests that taking a combo of B6, B12, and folic acid might cut the risk of age-related macular degeneration. Researchers were once hopeful that B12 and folate could protect the heart, but recent research has proved disappointing. What’s more, some women take biotin to combat hair loss, a symptom of severe biotin deficiency, but we couldn’t find studies that showed it helps prevent or treat the problem.
Vegetarians, since B12 is found largely in animal derived foods, and people older than 50, because the stomach acid needed to absorb B12 diminishes with age. The amount of B12 in a typical multivitamin, 6 micrograms, is usually sufficient. Many pregnant women opt for the high levels of folic acid found in prenatal vitamins to help prevent neural tube defects in the developing fetus. Some preliminary evidence suggests that biotin might increase nail thickness in those who have brittle nails. If you want to try it, take 2.5 to 3 milligrams daily for four to six months.
Iron
Adolescent girls, premenopausal women, and athletes are at risk of iron deficiency. Women might need to compensate for iron lost through menstrual bleeding. And as we get older, we don’t always absorb the mineral well. Women who have lengthy or heavy periods and / or symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating should consider taking iron supplements. Get tested before you take supplemental iron. The amount found in some multivitamins formulas is fine for most people, but extra iron could be dangerous if you don’t need it. If your doctor gives you the green light, start with one of the inexpensive iron salts – ferrous sulfate, ferrous fumerte, or ferrous gluconate. If those leave you constipated or nauseated, two possible side effects, try a slow-release version or try iron-polysaccharide complex. Also keep in mind that iron is best absorbed on an empty stomach, but if you can’t tolerate that, you can take it with food. A small serving of meat and a vitamin C-rich food such as spinach or turnip greens is best.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin
If you have join pain and stiffness, you might have osteoarthritis, which occurs when cartilage breaks down. Evidence is mixed on whether those supplements effectively alleviate symptoms. In one big trial they didn’t work any better than a placebo for people with just mild symptoms but did provide significant relief for those with moderate to severe pain. Those who suffer from moderate to severe osteoarthritis pain should consider taking it. Record your symptoms and stop in three months if you don’t improve. Glucosamine is made from shells of sea creature,s so talk to your doctor if you have a seafood allergy. The study used 1,500 milligrams of glucosamine and 1,200 milligrams of chondroitin sulfate, split into three doses. Your best choice is probably glucosamine sulfate alone (also called glucosamine sulfate salt).
Ginkgo biloba
This herb is used by people to enhance memory and mental focus and stave off cognitive decline. But we haven’t seen conclusive scientific evidence that it really works. It’s also worth emphasizing that ginkgo can cause bleeding and interact with other medications.
St. John’s wort
It’s widely considered a natural antidepressant. A recent review involving 29 trials and almost 5,500 patients showed that it improved symptoms better than a placebo and worked about as well as prescription antidepressants. The results are promising, but the studies were of short duration and some were of questionable quality, and the makeup of supplements varied. If you have mild or moderate depression, St. John’s wort might be beneficial. But it can cause side effects, such as stomach problems and possibly a decreased enjoyment of sex. It can also interfere with a long list of medications, including certain antidepressants, birth-control pills, and drugs for high cholesterol and migraine. Talk to your doctor before you start taking St. John’s wort. Most studies used 500 milligrams to 1,200 milligrams of extract daily.
Vitamin K
Research is conflicting, but two large studies, the Framingham Heart Study and Nurses’ Health Study, have linked lower intakes of vitamin K to a higher risk of fractures. Most people get plenty of vitamin K, but consider supplements if you seldom eat K-rich foods such as green leafy vegetables and soybean, canola, or olive oils. Rather than taking a separate pill, you can take a multivitamin or calcium supplement that includes K. for optimum bone health, some experts think women should get more than the currently recommended 90 micrograms daily.
Supplements to support your overall health but not to treat your disease:
USANA Vitamins Supplements Procosa II has ground-breaking formula that supports optimal joint health. To help support healthy joints, USANA created Procosa® II supplement, a product with a blend of glucosamine, manganese, vitamin C, and silicon—building blocks for healthy cartilage.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Vitamins B7, B9 and B12
B7 (Biotin)
Biotin is a B vitamin made by the flora of your gastrointestinal tract. It is involved in the metabolism of fats and proteins. Excessive amounts of biotin synthesize with bacteria and kill it. If you take antibiotics all of the time, the bacteria that synthesizes biotin are killed off and you will not make enough.
Functions of B7 in your body
• Increases insulin sensitivity
• Needed for fatty acid synthesis
• Strengthens nails
• Used in energy metabolism
Diseases / disorders that can be treated with B7
• Brittle nails
• Diabetes mellitus
• Diabetic neuropathy
• Seborrheic dermatitis
B9 (Folic Acid)
Vitamin B9 has many functions in the body but is especially important for energy production and the immune system. Part of the B9 you need is made in your intestine, while the rest can be found in food or supplements. The synthetic form of B9 is folic acid; the natural form found in food is called folate.
Functions of B9 in your body
• Detoxifies hormones (such as estrogen)
• Detoxifies phenols (by-products of manufacturing) from the environment
• Essential for central nervous system function
• Essential for DNA synthesis
• Involved in methylation (which decreases homocysteine)
• Metabolic conversion of dopamine, a neurotransmitter
• Needed for proper health of all tissues, especially mucous membrane tissues of the digestive tract, vagina, and cervix
• Needed for the synthesis of hemoglobin
• Produces complex phospholipids for neurological function
• Produces S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), an important compound found in all living cells
• Protects baby from neural tube defects, such as spina bifida
Side effects and contraindications
Dosages should not exceed 400 micrograms per day since folic acid supplementation may mask the symptoms of B12 deficiency. Large doses can cause insomnia, irritability, and gastrointestinal problems. If you are taking phenytoin (an anticovulsant), do not take high doses of folic acid. Folic acid also interferes with seizure medications such as valproic acid, carbamazepine, and primidone, so consult your doctor before taking this vitamin if you are on any of these medications.
B12 (Cobalamin)
Vitamin B12 is called either cobalamin or cyanocobalamin, and is synthesized by bacteria. It performs many important functions in the body, and exists in most animal foods. Vegetarians and vegans should take B12 supplements or eat fortified breakfast cereals, which are a valuable source of this vitamin. Hydrochloric acid releases B12 from food, at which point the vitamin can be absorbed by the body.
Functions of B12 in your body
• Facilitates the metabolism of folic acid
• Functions as a methyl donor, which lowers homocysteine levels (high levels of which can be a risk factor for heart disease and memory loss)
• Helps synthesize proteins
• Involved in the production of neurotransmitters
• Needed for carnitine metabolism (which breaks down fat to provide energy)
• Needed for nervous system function
• Needed for red blood cell metabolism
• Required for proper digestion
Causes of B12 Deficiency
• Antacids (which can decrease absorption from food but not from supplementation)
• Colchicines (gout medication)
• Digestive disorders
• Nitrous oxide
• Potassium citrate and chloride
• Some oral hypoglycemic agents (which lower blood sugar)
USANA Vitamins Body Rox contains balanced amounts of essential vitamins and co-factors that young people need. The Body Rox™ supplement is specially formulated by USANA to help meet the nutritional needs of growing adolescents.
Biotin is a B vitamin made by the flora of your gastrointestinal tract. It is involved in the metabolism of fats and proteins. Excessive amounts of biotin synthesize with bacteria and kill it. If you take antibiotics all of the time, the bacteria that synthesizes biotin are killed off and you will not make enough.
Functions of B7 in your body
• Increases insulin sensitivity
• Needed for fatty acid synthesis
• Strengthens nails
• Used in energy metabolism
Diseases / disorders that can be treated with B7
• Brittle nails
• Diabetes mellitus
• Diabetic neuropathy
• Seborrheic dermatitis
B9 (Folic Acid)
Vitamin B9 has many functions in the body but is especially important for energy production and the immune system. Part of the B9 you need is made in your intestine, while the rest can be found in food or supplements. The synthetic form of B9 is folic acid; the natural form found in food is called folate.
Functions of B9 in your body
• Detoxifies hormones (such as estrogen)
• Detoxifies phenols (by-products of manufacturing) from the environment
• Essential for central nervous system function
• Essential for DNA synthesis
• Involved in methylation (which decreases homocysteine)
• Metabolic conversion of dopamine, a neurotransmitter
• Needed for proper health of all tissues, especially mucous membrane tissues of the digestive tract, vagina, and cervix
• Needed for the synthesis of hemoglobin
• Produces complex phospholipids for neurological function
• Produces S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), an important compound found in all living cells
• Protects baby from neural tube defects, such as spina bifida
Side effects and contraindications
Dosages should not exceed 400 micrograms per day since folic acid supplementation may mask the symptoms of B12 deficiency. Large doses can cause insomnia, irritability, and gastrointestinal problems. If you are taking phenytoin (an anticovulsant), do not take high doses of folic acid. Folic acid also interferes with seizure medications such as valproic acid, carbamazepine, and primidone, so consult your doctor before taking this vitamin if you are on any of these medications.
B12 (Cobalamin)
Vitamin B12 is called either cobalamin or cyanocobalamin, and is synthesized by bacteria. It performs many important functions in the body, and exists in most animal foods. Vegetarians and vegans should take B12 supplements or eat fortified breakfast cereals, which are a valuable source of this vitamin. Hydrochloric acid releases B12 from food, at which point the vitamin can be absorbed by the body.
Functions of B12 in your body
• Facilitates the metabolism of folic acid
• Functions as a methyl donor, which lowers homocysteine levels (high levels of which can be a risk factor for heart disease and memory loss)
• Helps synthesize proteins
• Involved in the production of neurotransmitters
• Needed for carnitine metabolism (which breaks down fat to provide energy)
• Needed for nervous system function
• Needed for red blood cell metabolism
• Required for proper digestion
Causes of B12 Deficiency
• Antacids (which can decrease absorption from food but not from supplementation)
• Colchicines (gout medication)
• Digestive disorders
• Nitrous oxide
• Potassium citrate and chloride
• Some oral hypoglycemic agents (which lower blood sugar)
USANA Vitamins Body Rox contains balanced amounts of essential vitamins and co-factors that young people need. The Body Rox™ supplement is specially formulated by USANA to help meet the nutritional needs of growing adolescents.
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