I’m glad you joined me to see what the blog du jour has to offer. As I was sitting at the breakfast bar this morning, I was mentally checking off all the things I needed to tackle for the day ahead. The first order of business was a healthy bowl of oats, a few supplements and a large glass of water.
BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS
Many simply can’t stomach breakfast and opt for a quick cup of joe and a few vitamins. WebMD reminds us that a healthy morning meal can help with a better memory and concentration, lowers levels of “bad” cholesterol and lowers chances of getting diabetes, heart disease and obesity.
SUPPLY THE SUPPLEMENTS
In addition to the morning meal, I take a variety of supplements, one of which is biotin (aka B7.) As middle age approaches, many of us become “follically challenged” aka thinning hair. Although there is little conclusive evidence that biotin works for thinning hair, it remains a popular supplement for hair, skin and nail growth. It is the opinion of some that it stimulates keratin production in the hair and can increase the rate of follicle growth. I did some research about B7 and how it differs from the other B’s.
NOT ALL B’S ARE CREATED EQUAL
The Better Health Channel reports there are 8 types of B vitamins. They include:
- Thiamin (B1) which helps convert glucose into energy.
- Riboflavin (B2) which is involved in energy production and helps vision and skin health.
- Niacin (B3) is essential for the body to convert carbohydrates and fat into energy.
- Pantothenic acid (B5) helps produce red blood cells and steroid hormones.
- Pyridoxine (B6) necessary for protein and carbohydrate metabolism, the formation of red blood cells and certain brain chemicals.
- Biotin (B7) is necessary for energy metabolism, fat synthesis, amino acid metabolism and glycogen synthesis. Too much can contribute to raised blood cholesterol levels.
- Folate or folic acid (B9) is needed to form red blood cells which carry oxygen around the body. It helps development of the foetal nervous system, as well as DNA synthesis and cell growth.
- Cyanocobalamin (B12) helps produce and maintain the myelin surrounding nerve cells, mental ability, red blood cell formation and the break down of some fatty and amino acids to produce energy.
A LOT OF INFO
My research yielded a lot of information about B vitamins. I also read about other supplements and the advantages vs disadvantages of taking them. Keep in mind that simply because medication and supplements are readily available over the counter doesn’t mean you should freely ingest them! Do your research. Over ingesting medications or supplements can have deleterious results.
CONSULT A PRO
Many of us are guilty of self-diagnosing and medicating. If you are unsure about a condition, medication or supplement, visit with your healthcare provider to get the answers that are tailored specifically for you. Speaking of consulting a pro, if you and your provider determine diagnostic ultrasound is indicated, call High Desert Doppler at 505-350-3397.