Nutrition Lesson 3

Now to look at some nutrients beside vitamins. Co enzyme Q 10 is one of the most researched nutrients for the cardiovascular system. Apotent antioxidant essention for energy production at a cellular level. The body's ability to absorb and to synthesize this Co enzyme Q declines with age. As I mentioned in an earlier blog the cell's powerhouse is the mitochondria. Cells store energy in a a molecule called ATP (Adenosine Tri-Phosphate). Co Q 10 is essential in the making of ATP. ATP is synthesized in every cell in the body. Cells with the highest energy requirement like the heart contain the highest levels of CoQ 10. Co Q 10 is one of the most researched molecules used in the production of cellular energy in the US, Europe, and Japan for its role in energy production in the heart and other muscles. "Energize." A byproduct of energy production in the mitochondria are damaging free radicals. Co Q 10 not only assists in ATP production, but assists in scavanging free radicals. As an anitoxidant it is right up there with vitamins C and E and it assists in protecting the body from harmful free radicals. In addition to age there are other factors that can deplete Co Q 10. These include overall nutritional status, levels of B vitamins like Folate, vitamin C and a substance called selenium. Some drugs also lower the amount of Co Q 10 levels in the body, including cholesterol lowering drugs called statins, excessive exercise, and environmental stressors such as illness and extreme weather.


Alpha lipoic acid is also involved in mitochondrial energy production, and the recycling of oxidized Co Q 10. This system also helps recycle vitamin E, C and glutathione. Bioflavanoid complexes ehnace protective effectiveness of the antioxidants.


B vitamins are essential to energy production in carefully proportioned complexes. They help with the retention of normal homcystine levels. The US Centers for Disease control issued a statement that all women of child bearing age should consure 400 mcg of floic acid daily, to reduce the risk of having a child affected with spina bifida or other neural tube defects.


Minerals and trace elements are less than one half of one percent of the total nutrients we consume, yet without them our bodies would be less efficient in their use of carbohydrates, proteeins and fats. Many vitamins and enzymes require mineral co-factors for proper function. We will now discuss these minerals. Zinc is a component in hundreds of enzymes. It is involved in metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins, as well as DNA and RNA replication. Zinc can function as an antioxidant and aids in healthy bone structure and developement. It also maintains healthy immune function, maintains vision and support normal fetal growth.


Selenium, already metioned earlier is and essential component of glutathione perioxidase antioxidant system and is improtant in Thyroid hormone metabolism. Research has also linked selenium to prostate health and protection of a healthy immune system.


Magnesium is essential in the body's production of bones and teeth, where 70% of the body's magnesium is found. It has been demonstrated to be involved in metabolism of carbohydrates, and amino acids, and is involved in normal neuromuscular contractions. It's also an activator of hundreds of the hundreds of essential enzymes required for life.


Chromium is important in glucose tolerance factor (GTF) that helps regulat insulin levels and healthy glucose metabolism. Poor diets and unhealthy lifestyles put stress on this system. Healthy insulin and glucose levels are essential for weight management and sustained energy levels that contribute to feelings of, and actual wellness.


Iodine is a crucial component in the the production of Thyroid hormones. These regulate growth, reproduction and the synthesis of protein. Supplemental iodine is especially important to vegetarians, those who avoid seafood, and those on a salt restricted diet. Most salt sold in the US has iodine added to it to prevent defficiencies.


Copper is essential in the synthesis of collegen, and a critical component of the ensym superoxide dismutase (SOD), an antioxidant in the cell's cytoplasm (the fluid inside our cells, in which all cellular organells are suspended), and acts as a catalyst in formation of hemoglobin.


Manganese is another important co-factor involved in the production of glycosaminoglycans (compunds that make up connective tissues, bones, arteries and other organs). It is also an activator of numerous enzymes, and can enhance the SOD enzyme system, increasing antioxidant activity.


Vanadium helps maintain healthy glucose levels, and is believed to play a role in healthy thyroid function as well.


Not all vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and co-factors are created equal. Remember that the bioavailability (the body's ability to absorb these substances) is not equal among various manufacturers. There are research articles that address the production facilities, their ability to always manufacture products of equal efficacy and the bioavailability of the product being produced.


Children and adolescents have very different nutrional needs than those of adults. The consistancy and bioavailability of these products are of equal importance.

Our next posting will deal with other substances our bodies require for optimal wellness, weight control and to reamin Energized.