Health Supplement

Cysteine is a protein amino acid found naturally in most life forms. Cysteine is a key component and building block of the antioxidant glutathione. The body also uses cysteine to produce taurine, another amino acid.

Cysteine can be synthesize from the amino acid methionine in our body but is also found in high protein foods such as poultry, wheat, broccoli, eggs as well as garlic, onions and red peppers.

Benefits of Cysteine supplementation
1. cysteine is required by our skin as well as to detoxify our body. It is found in beta-keratin, the main protein in nails, skin as well as hair. It not only is important in collagen production but also assists in skin elasticity and texture.
2. detoxify the body from harmful toxins and help protect the brain and liver from damage from alcohol, drugs etc.
3. may help in strengthening the protective lining of the stomach as well as intestines, which may help prevent damage caused by aspirin and similar drugs.
4. critical to the metabolism of a number of essential biochemicals including coenzyme A, heparin, biotin, lipoid acid, and glutathione.
5. helpful in the healing of burns and wounds, breaking down mucus deposits in illnesses such as bronchitis as well as cystic fibrosis.
6. increases the level of glutathione in the lungs, liver, kidneys and bone marrow, and this may have an anti-aging effect on the body by reducing age-spots etc.

People suffering from diabetes should be careful when taking supplementation, as it could inactivate insulin.
People suffering from AIDS/HIV may benefit from cysteine in proper amounts, as low levels are normally reported in people with this problem.
General daily requirement is not known but as supplement cysteine is used at 200 mg two to three times per day.

Source:
http://www.antioxidantguide.org/cysteine.html

http://www.healthvitaminsguide.com/aminoacids/cysteine-and-cystine.htm

Three of the most important amino acids in the body are leucine, isoleucine and valine, collectively known as branched-chained amino acids (BCAAs). They are most important in maintaining muscle tissues, preserving muscle glycogen stores and preventing muscle breakdown during strenuous exercise. Many people have taken BCAA supplements to enhance physical training effects and improve performance during exercise.

BCAA’s inhibit protein breakdown under this condition. BCAAs are of particular interest to bodybuilders because unlike other amino acids, which are broken down in the liver, they are metabolized in the muscles. Here, they can be used to produce energy or construct new proteins. BCAA supplementation decreases nitrogen losses when compared with non-essential amino acids.

BCAA supplementation is combatting immunosuppression caused by prolonged exercise. Supplementation of BCAA’s to competing triathletes and runners increases plasma glutamine concentratiom which can decrease the incidence of upper respiratory tract infections in endurance athletes.

Source:
http://www.ironmagazine.com/review40.html

http://www.nutritional-supplements-health-guide.com/amino-acid-side-effects.html

Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid. It is available in three chemical forms, including L-phenylalanine (the natural form of phenylalanine found in proteins throughout the body), D-phenylalanine (a mirror image of L-phenylalanine that is synthesized in a laboratory), and DL-phenylalanine, a combination of the previous two forms.

Phenylalanine may undergo bacterial breakdown in the intestine by the bacterial enzyme with the formation of phenyl acetic acid. This phenyl acetic acid may be converted into benzoic acid. These toxic substances are absorbed and detoxicated in the liver. Like all other amino acids, phenylalanine also takes part in the synthesis of tissue protein.

Symptoms of phenylalanine deficiency include confusion, lack of energy, decreased alertness, decreased memory, and diminished appetite. Its deficiency can also lead to stunted growth, apathy, muscle loss, and weakness.

Available Forms:
* D-phenylalanine
* L-phenylalanine
* DL-phenylalanine (50/50 blend of D-phenylalanine and L-phenylalanine)

L-phenylalanine is found in most foods that contain protein such as beef, poultry, pork, fish, milk, yogurt, eggs, cheese, soy products (including soy protein isolate, soybean flour, and tofu), and certain nuts and seeds. The artificial sweetener aspartame is also high in phenylalanine.
D-phenylalanine is synthesized in the laboratory is not found in food.

Phenylalanine supplementation uses for:
* Chronic pain
* Parkinson’s disease
* Vitiligo
* Depression

Phenylalanine can cause irreversible brain damage and death, especially when used in high quantities or during pregnancy. Recommended dosages of phenylalanine vary depending on the health condition being treated. Supplements are recommended 15 – 30 minutes before meals.

Source:
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/phenylalanine-000318.htm

http://www.healthvitaminsguide.com/aminoacids/phenylalanine.htm

L-tyrosine is an amino acid, one of the building blocks of protein. It plays an important role in the production of neurotransmitters that regulate emotions. The body makes L-tyrosine from another amino acid, known as phenylalanine.
L-tyrosine is found in many protein containing foods, such as meats, dairy products, fish, wheat and oats.

L-tyrosine supplements have been used as a therapeutic supplement for those with phenylketonuria, depression, Parkinson’s disease, and those who want to improve their memory.

L-tyrosine supplements are not necessary for most people, but those with specific conditions that may be related to deficiencies of l-tyrosine may benefit from taking 100 mg per 2.2 pounds of body weight. It is also important to note that l-tyrosine may interact with certain medications. Anyone taking prescription drugs should consult a physician about possible l-tyrosine side effects and interactions.

Source:
http://www.nutritional-supplements-health-guide.com/l-tyrosine-side-effects.html

http://www.nutritional-supplements-guide.com/benefits-of-l-tyrosine.html

Iron is an essential element that plays a key role in normal human physiology. In humans, iron combines with proteins in the blood that are responsible for the transportation of oxygen through the bloodstream.
It also plays a regulatory role in cell growth and differentiation. When humans are deficient in iron (anemic) oxygen delivery to tissues is hampered, leading to fatigue, confusion, and decreased immunity.
Iron supplements are often given to individuals who for some reason or another are low in Iron concentrations in their blood.

Iron deficiency occurs when the balance of iron that is taken into the body is less than what is required by the body for normal function. The process of iron deficiency is usually slow because the body will first try to compensate for the imbalance by tapping into the forms of iron storage within the body. Once the iron storage forms are depleted, blood hemoglobin levels begin to decrease leading to iron deficiency anemia.

The risk for iron toxicity can run very high if someone is taking iron supplementation that does not need it. This is because iron is lost from the body at a very slow rate. Remember to keep any iron supplement away from children. As little as 200mg has been reported to kill a child.

Source:
http://www.articlesbase.com/supplements-and-vitamins-articles/iron-supplements-a-review-486679.html

Biotin is also known as Vitamin H, Vitamin B2 and Coenzyme R. Iis a B-vitamin that is produced naturally within the body by positive bacteria found in the small intestine.
Biotin is very beneficial for treating a number of skin disorders as well as thinning and balding hair. Biotin supplements are frequently used in the diets of individuals that may be less than nutritionally sound, such as those people suffering from anorexia, and people missing a portion of the small intestine.

Since short-term Biotin deficiencies appears to sometimes occur in women who are pregnant, Biotin supplements are often given to women during their pregnancies. Biotin supplements are also added to an infant formula. This is in order to protect against Biotin deficiencies forming, due to a milk-based only diet.

Health Benefits of Biotin:
1. Helps regulate blood sugar levels in Type 2 diabetes
2. Produces healthy hair and prevents graying and balding
3. Boosts normal health of sweat glands, nerve tissue, bone marrow, male sex glands and blood cells

As a supplement, biotin even in large doses is ~100 percent bioavailable. A biotin supplement providing at least 1 mg is warranted, and 3-5 mg may be best to stay on the safe side (it should also be noted that biotin and pantothenic acid exhibit a synergistic relationship under some circumstances). Because large amounts adminstered at a time might increase renal excretion, biotin is more effective when taken as two or three smaller doses throughout the day.

Source:
http://www.nutritionalsupplementscenter.com/info/HealthSupplement/biotin.html

http://www.nutritional-supplement-guides.com/Biotin-Side-Effects.html

Folic acid (also known as vitamin B9 or folacin) and folate (the naturally occurring form), as well as pteroyl-L-glutamic acid and pteroyl-L-glutamate, are forms of the water-soluble vitamin B9.
It is used in our bodies for cell formation and multiplication, DNA replication, formation of red and white blood cells, and other important central functions. You can take in natural folic acid from many foods such as green, leafy vegetables, fruits, beans, peas, peanuts, and meat sources.

A deficiency of folate can occur when an increased need for folate is not matched by an increased intake, when dietary folate intake does not meet recommended needs, and when folate loss increases. Medications that interfere with the metabolism of folate may also increase the need for this vitamin and risk of deficiency.

Folic acid supplementation is encouraged for those who are possibly folic acid deficient and those who have increased need of it, such as in the case of pregnant women.
Folic acid has also been used as medication for treating conditions such as megaloblastic anemia, depression, heart conditions, and so on. However, before deciding that you need to take folic acid supplements yourself to counter any of these conditions, it is always best that you see your doctor beforehand.

Tolerable Upper Intake Levels for Folate for Children and Adults

Intake of supplemental folic acid should not exceed 1,000 micrograms (?g) per day to prevent folic acid from triggering symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency. Folic acid supplements can correct the anemia associated with vitamin B12 deficiency. Unfortunately, folic acid will not correct changes in the nervous system that result from vitamin B12 deficiency.

Source:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Folic_acid

http://www.nutritional-supplements-health-guide.com/side-effects-of-folic-acid.html

PABA is the short form for Para-AminoBenzoic Acid. It is an antioxidant that is considered by some as a B complex vitamin, and sometimes called vitamin Bx. Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) is used in sunscreen preparations since it can help protect the skin against ultra-violet radiation.
When PABA is in short supply fatigue, irritability, nervousness and depression might manifest itself as well as constipation. Weeping eczema has also been noted in people with PABA deficiency as well as patchy areas on the skin.
PABA Deficiency Symptoms:
1. constipation and other chronic gastro-intestinal disorders
2. nervousness
3. frequent headaches
4. general fatigue
5. depression
6. irritability
7. weeping or moist eczema
8. premature wrinkling of skin
9. premature grey hair

PABA Benefits & Functions:
1. helps in the utilization of pantothenic acid
2. important for healthy skin and hair pigment
3. may restore grey hair to original color when used with inositol, folic acid and pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), if greying was due to stress or deficiency in the B vitamins
4. has been used, together with biotin, folic acid, pantothenic acid, and sometimes vitamin E, to restore hair
5. early studies show may help treat vitiligo (loss of color or pigmentation in some areas of skin)
6. may prevent accumulation of abnormal fibrous tissue
7. assists formation of red blood cells
8. acts as a coenzyme in the metabolism and utilization of protein

Vitamin C and the B group vitamins, plus Folic Acid are best taken with PABA. An allowance of between 30 mg to 100 mg a day is considered reasonable for a healthy person.
A typical therapeutic dose may be in the region of 200 milligrams (mg) for children to 400 mg for adults. Do not take more than 400 mg daily except under medical advice, to avoid PABA toxicity.

PABA side effects arise from allergic reactions rather than from overdosing. Signs of allergy include coma, diarrhea, dizziness, fever, liver damage, nausea, skin rashes, shortness of breath, slowed breathing, stupor, and vomiting. These require immediate medical attention.

Source:
http://www.healthsupplementsnutritionalguide.com/PABA.html

http://www.anyvitamins.com/PABA-info.htm

GABA (Gamma-Amino Butyric Acid) is an amino acid that functions as a neurotransmitter in the brain. GABA is synthesized in the brain from another amino acid, glutamate, and functions as an inhibitory neurotransmitter – meaning that it blocks nerve impulses. In the body, GABA is concentrated in the hypothalamus region of the brain and is known to play a role in the overall functioning of the pituitary gland – which regulates growth hormone synthesis, sleep cycles, and body temperature.

As a dietary supplement, GABA is typically promoted to bodybuilders and other athletes as a nutrient to help stimulate secretion of growth hormone, decrease body fat levels and increase lean muscle tissue. The problem, however, is that GABA does not cross the blood-brain barrier, so it can not get into the brain where it is active.

A related compound known as GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyric acid) differs from GABA only by substitution of GABA’s amino group with a hydroxyl (OH) group – making GHB able to cross into the brain. As such, products containing GHB have been promoted as supplements to increase growth hormone levels, aid recovery from exercise and promote relaxation and sleep.

Although GABA can be converted into GHB in the brain, and both appear to have power actions in certain regions of the brain, it is unclear whether orally administered GABA is converted to GHB. It does appear, however, that pituitary growth hormone release is partly regulated by blood levels of GABA.

The benefits of taking this supplement:
# Increases growth hormone levels
# Induces relaxation / sleep
# Promotes muscle recovery
# Relieves anxiety / Promotes feelings of well-being

Doses of GABA as high as 5 grams per dose are recommended within hard-core bodybuilding circles to stimulate spikes in plasma growth hormone levels, but smaller doses of 1-2 grams are probably more realistic. Doses are typically taken on an empty stomach prior to sleep.

Source:
http://www.ironmagazine.com/review20.html

http://www.aboutsupplements.com/blog/tag/gaba/

Selenium is a trace element found in soil, and is required in small amounts to maintain good health. It is essential for many body processes and is present in nearly every cell but especially in the kidneys, liver, spleen, testes, and pancreas.

Selenium supplements used to prevent certain types of cancer such as cancer of the cervix, rectum, ovaries, bladder, oesophagus, pancreas and liver. It is also being tested against leukaemia with the hope of promising results. Selenium can protect the heart, primarily by reducing the “stickiness” of the blood and decreasing the risk of clotting, in turn, lowering the risk of heart attack, and stroke.

Lack of selenium may lead to changes in fingernails, muscle weakness, and heart problems.

Selenium deficiency is rare, as most people get enough in their daily diets. However, if you were to be deficient symptoms would include muscular weakness and fatigue. Too much selenium on the other hand is possible. If you are taking a selenium supplement you should remember not to exceed 600mcg per day. Overdosing on selenium or selenium poisoning can cause depression, nausea and vomiting, nervousness and loss of hair and fingernails along with a breath odour.

Source:
http://www.nutritional-supplements-health-guide.com/benefits-of-selenium.html

http://www.drugs.com/cons/selenium-supplements.html