Troop Pharmacy > Blog > Vitamins & Supplements
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VITAMIN C

Things you need to know about VITAMIN C

Vitamin C is needed for the body to develop and function properly. It plays an important role in immune function

Possibly Effective for;
1)  Low levels of red blood cells in people with a long-term illness (anemia of chronic disease). Taking vitamin C supplements by mouth might help manage anemia in people undergoing dialysis.

2 Irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation). Taking vitamin C by mouth before and after heart surgery helps prevent irregular heartbeat after heart surgery.

3 Common cold. Taking 1-3 grams of vitamin C by mouth might shorten the course of a cold by 1 to 1.5 days. But taking vitamin C does not appear to prevent colds.

4 Limb pain that usually occurs after an injury (complex regional pain syndrome). Taking vitamin C by mouth after surgery or injury seems to prevent complex regional pain syndrome from developing.

5 Airway infections caused by exercise. Taking vitamin C by mouth before heavy physical exercise, such as a marathon or army training, might prevent upper airway infections that can occur after heavy exercise.

6 High cholesterol. Taking vitamin C by mouth might reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL or “bad”) cholesterol in people with high cholesterol.

7 High blood pressure. Taking vitamin C by mouth might help lower systolic blood pressure.

8 Lead poisoning. Consuming vitamin C in the diet seems to lower blood levels of lead.

9 Wrinkled skin. Applying skin creams containing vitamin C seems to improve the appearance of wrinkled skin.

Special Precautions and Warnings

(1) When taken by mouth: Vitamin C is likely safe for most people. In some people, vitamin C might cause side effects such as stomach cramps, nausea, heartburn, and headache. The chance of getting these side effects increases with higher doses. Taking more than 2000 mg daily is possibly unsafe and may cause kidney stones and severe diarrhea. In people who have had a kidney stone, taking amounts greater than 1000 mg daily increases the risk of getting more kidney stones.

(2) When applied to the skin: Vitamin C is likely safe for most people. It might cause irritation and tingling. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Vitamin C is likely safe to take by mouth during pregnancy in amounts no greater than 2000 mg daily for those 19 years and older and 1800 mg daily for those 14-18 years old. Taking too much vitamin C during pregnancy can cause problems for the newborn baby. Vitamin C is possibly unsafe when taken by mouth in excessive amounts.

(3) Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Vitamin C is likely safe to take by mouth during pregnancy in amounts no greater than 2000 mg daily for those 19 years and older and 1800 mg daily for those 14-18 years old. Taking too much vitamin C during pregnancy can cause problems for the newborn baby. Vitamin C is possibly unsafe when taken by mouth in excessive amounts.

(4) Infants and children: Vitamin C is likely safe when taken by mouth appropriately. Vitamin C is possibly unsafe when taken by mouth in amounts higher than 400 mg daily for children 1-3 years, 650 mg daily for children 4-8 years, 1200 mg daily for children 9-13 years, and 1800 mg daily for adolescents 14-18 years.

(5) Alcohol use disorder: People who regularly use alcohol, especially those who have other illnesses, often have vitamin C deficiency. These people might need to be treated for a longer time than normal to restore vitamin C levels to normal.

(6) Cancer: Cancerous cells collect high concentrations of vitamin C. Until more is known, only use high doses of vitamin C under the direction of your oncologist.

(7) Chronic kidney disease: Long-term kidney disease might increase the risk of vitamin C deficiency. Vitamin C supplements might also increase the amount of oxalate in the urine in some people. Too much oxalate in the urine can increase the risk of kidney failure in people with kidney disease.

(8) Kidney stones: Large amounts of vitamin C can increase the chance of getting kidney stones. Do not take vitamin C in amounts greater than those found in basic multivitamins.

(9) Smoking and chewing tobacco: Smoking and chewing tobacco lowers vitamin C levels. People who smoke or chew tobacco should consume more vitamin C in the diet.

Vitamin C is available in supplements, combination products, liquids, lotions, creams, serums, sprays, and patches. Supplements have been used safely by adults in doses up to 2000 mg daily.

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Wellteen

WELLTEEN HIM AND WELLTEEN HER

Wellteen Him and Her is a carefully balanced formula to help maintain vitality and wellness of male and female teenagers. It’s an ideal way to complement a healthy balanced diet. A healthy diet is always essential – but not always a priority for busy teenagers. That’s why Wellteen Him and Wellteen Her was developed. The supplements provides the growing nutritional needs and busy lifestyles of teenagers.

WHY SHOULD TEENAGERS TAKE SUPPLEMENTS?

An optimum nutritional intake during adolescence and young adulthood can help set the stage for lifelong health. Teenagers need to have sufficient vitamins and minerals to ensure healthy development during growth spurts and as they undergo significant physical and biochemical changes in their bodies. So the importance of obtaining the right nutrients in the diet is vital, just at a time when this may not be a top priority for some busy teenagers.

BENEFITS OF WELLTEEN HIM AND HER SUPPLEMENTS.

Wellteen supplements provide a comprehensive range of vitamins and minerals, including Omega 3, which provides DHA that helps maintain normal brain function and vision, pantothenic acid that contributes to normal mental performance, Vitamins B6, B12 and vitamin C which contributes to normal energy release and the reduction of tiredness & fatigue. Iron which contributes to the normal formation of red blood cells and hemoglobin. The formulas also contain vitamin D, magnesium and zinc which contribute to the maintenance of normal bone health.

 

Written by Osuegbu Lilian Nkechi

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Calcium

CALCIUM

Calcium is a nutrient that all living organisms need, including humans. It is the most abundant mineral in the body, and it is vital for bone health.
Humans need calcium to build and maintain strong bones, and 99% of the body’s calcium is in the bones and teeth.

It is also necessary for maintaining healthy communication between the brain and other parts of the body. It plays a role in muscle movement and cardiovascular function.

Calcium occurs naturally in many foods, and food manufacturers add it to certain products. Supplements are also available.

WHY WE NEED CALCIUM

Calcium plays various roles in the body. These include the following:

BONE HEALTH

Around 99% of the calcium in the human body is in the bones and teeth. Calcium is essential for the development, growth, and maintenance of bone.

As children grow, calcium contributes to the development of their bones. After a person stops growing, calcium continues to help maintain the bones and slow down bone density loss, which is a natural part of the aging process.

MUSCLE CONTRACTION

Calcium helps regulate muscle contraction. When a nerve stimulates a muscle, the body releases calcium. The calcium helps the proteins in muscle carry out the work of contraction.

Calcium’s role in muscle function maintaining the action of the heart muscle. Calcium relaxes the smooth muscle that surrounds blood vessels.

Calcium is a co-factor for many enzymes. Without calcium, some key enzymes.

BENEFITS OF CALCIUM

– Lower risk of developing conditions involving high blood pressure during pregnancy.

– Lower blood pressure in young people

– Lower risk of colorectal adenomas, a type of non-cancerous tumor.

CALCIUM RICH FOODS

People can obtain calcium from a range of foods and drinks such as:

*Yogurt

*Milk

*Sardines and salmon

*Cheese

*Green leafy vegetables, such as broccoli, turnip leaves, watercress, and kale.

*Many fortified breakfast cereals

*Fortified fruit juices,

*Nuts and seeds, especially almonds, sesame, and chia

*Legumes and grains

*Cornmeal and corn tortillas.

Stay healthy, Stay strong with CALCIUM!!!

 

Written by Osuegbu Lilian Nkechi

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Cinnamon

CINNAMON

Cinnamon is a spice obtained from the bark of several tree species. Cinnamon is used mainly as an aromatic condiment and flavoring additive in wide varieties of sweet and savory dishes, breakfast cereals, snack foods and teas. Cinnamon is known for benefits linked to digestion and gastrointestinal complaints, it has long been used as a home remedy for heartburn, indigestion, nausea, acne to premature ejaculation.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF CINNAMON

✓ It helps to manage Type 2 Diabetes

Cinnamon can help manage this disease in two different ways. It can reduce blood pressure and have a positive effect on blood markers for those with Type 2 diabetes. Cinnamon can also reduce insulin resistance.

✓ It helps manage metabolic diseases

It is effective in reducing complications, morbidity, and mortality in metabolic syndrome, including reducing blood pressure, plasma glucose, obesity, and dyslipidemia.

✓ Appetite Suppressant

Cinnamon can also be used as an appetite suppressant to those with a sugar addiction, thanks to its naturally sweet taste.

✓ Cinnamon can be used to manage cold.

It helps clear up mucus and encourages air circulation.

✓ It can be used in the management of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease

Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases are two neurological conditions that, for the moment, are incurable. An enormous part of treating these diseases is therefore in symptom management, and this can be boosted with the addition of cinnamon to a regular regime.

✓ Cinnamon acts as an anti-carcinogen

Cinnamon extract slows the growth of cancer cells and induces cancerous cell death.

✓ Cinnamon acts as anti-inflammatory

Consumption of cinnamon could reduce both systemic and specific inflammation. Specific inflammation reduction means that consumption of cinnamon could help treat certain types of pain and headaches, as well as arthritis pain. It plays a double role in this particular type of pain.

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Zinc

Zinc is a nutrient found throughout the body, it helps the immune system and metabolism function. Zinc is also important to wound healing and sense of taste and smell.

FOOD SOURCES OF ZINC.

– Beans

– Meats

– Nuts

– Fish

– Seafood

– Whole grain cereals

BENEFITS OF ZINC

1. Immune function

The body needs zinc for the immune system to work properly. Low levels of zinc can increase the risk of infections, such as pneumonia.

2. Treating diarrhea

Zinc helps to shorten bouts of diarrhea, especially in those who do not have a nutritious diet.

3. Wound healing

Zinc plays a role in maintaining healthy skin. People with long-term wounds or ulcers often have low zinc levels. Healthcare professionals may recommend zinc supplements for people with persistent wounds. zinc plays a key role in every stage of wound healing, from skin repair to preventing infections.

4. Chronic diseases

Zinc has antioxidant properties, as such it can help reduce oxidative stress which can lead to chronic diseases, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and other aspects of metabolic syndrome.

5. Sexual health

Low zinc level may lead to delayed sexual development, fertility problems, and other sexual health issues. zinc is essential to male sexual health as it serves as antioxidant and hormone balancer.

6. Osteoporosis

Zinc plays an essential role in bone formation and health. It may help prevent osteoporosis.

Written by Osuegbu Lilian Nkechi.

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Red Yeast Rice Extract

Red Yeast Rice

This is commonly used as a natural remedy to help lower cholesterol levels and promote heart health, and can sometimes have fewer adverse side effects than prescription drugs used to treat high cholesterol.

Red Yeast Rice Extract (RYRE)

This is a substance that’s extracted from rice that’s been fermented with a type of yeast called Monascus purpureus. It’s been used in China and other Asian countries for centuries as a traditional medicine. It’s also used as a food coloring, additive, and preservative.

RYRE naturally contains several ingredients that may help control cholesterol levels. These include a number of monacolins, most importantly monacolin K. It also contains sterols, isoflavones, and monounsaturated fatty acids, or “healthy fats.”

Health Benefits of Red Yeast Rice Extract

Red yeast rice offers various health benefits for people who take it. Among them include:

  • Lowers Cholesterol:

One of the primary uses for red yeast rice is to lower cholesterol. The chemicals found in red yeast rice lower the amounts of “bad” cholesterol (also known as low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, or LDL) in the body by lowering its production in the liver.

  • Lowers Blood Sugar:

Studies have shown that taking red yeast rice supplements, along with having a healthy diet, may help lower blood sugar in people who have type 2 diabetes. The red yeast rice contributes to lower lipid (fat) levels in the blood, which helps to lower blood sugar levels.

  • Lowers Stroke Risk:

Since red yeast rice helps to lower cholesterol, it can also decrease your chances of having a stroke. Low cholesterol reduces the risk of developing dangerous blood clots, which can break and cause strokes and heart attacks. Red yeast rice can also reduce your risk of other diseases caused by high blood pressure, like chest pain (angina) and heart failure.

  • Improves Blood Circulation:

Plaques in blood vessels also clog arteries and reduce circulation. Red yeast rice has been shown to help improve circulation, allowing wounds to heal more quickly and letting your body function at its best.

Side Effects of Red Yeast Rice Extract;

  1. Headache
  2. Stomach ache or bloating
  3. Gas
  4. Dizziness
  5. Heartburn
  6. Muscle aches and weakness.

 

Written by Lucy Ebube

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Soybean Seed Extract

Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract:

Glycine Soja extract is obtained from the beans of the wild soybean plant, native to East Asia.  It is a powerful antioxidant  and anti-inflammatory agent for the skin.

Soya beans contain many functional components including phenolic acids, flavonoids, isoflavonoids (quercetin, genistein, and daidzein), small proteins (Bowman-Birk inhibitor, soybean trypsin inhibitor) tannins, and proanthocyanidins.

Soybean seeds extract and fresh soymilk fractions have been reported to possess the cosmeceutical and dermatological benefits such as anti-inflammatory, collagen stimulating effect, potent anti-oxidant scavenging peroxyl radicals, skin lightening effect and protection against UV radiation.

BENEFITS OF SOYBEAN SEED

  • Anti oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties:

Most famous and bioactive flavonoids in soybeans are the isoflavones called genistein and diadzein that have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Genistein is also proven to inhibit UV induced redness in human skin.

  • Reduces Collagen loss:

These isoflavones are also the ones that make soy a phytoestrogen, meaning they have a (weak) estrogenic effect. Topical estrogen is known to decrease skin thinning and collagen loss and soy might be able to do the same, especially during and after menopause when natural estrogen levels run low.

  • . Protects against free radicals:

Glycine soja (soybean) seed extract has vitamin E, allowing it to protect the skin from free radial damage and reduce the effects associated with the aging process such as wrinkles and fine lines.

  • Anti-aging properties:

soja (soybean) seed extract is rich with many natural chemical components which is used as ingredient for skin care products and, one of which is known as Genistein. Genistein promotes a more youthful appearance. Anti-ageing products by men and women are in demand and ingredient extracted from soybean is very much popular for anti-ageing product manufacturing from last decade.

 

Written by Ebere chienjine

 

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Chasteberry Extract

CHASTEBERRY

Chasteberry is also known as Vitex (Vitex agnus-castus) is a plant used in herbal medicine. It’s often used to remedy women’s health problems. Vitex supplements typically contain extracts of the fruit and/or seed of the plant.

In the past, chasteberry extracts were used to treat a variety of gynecological disorders and skin conditions.

Today, chasteberry is promoted as a dietary supplement for symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, breast pain associated with the menstrual cycle, infertility, and other conditions.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF CHASTEBERRY

The relief of menstrual symptoms is the primary use of chasteberry as a nutritional supplement. Additional uses of this herb include support for reproductive and breast health.

  • Breast health

Chasteberry may also help relieve periodic breast discomfort, especially those caused by the menstrual cycle. This type of chasteberry extract is typically combined with other herbs.

  • Menstrual support

Chasteberry is often used to relieve menstrual symptoms, especially cramps, food cravings and swelling. It may also help support bouts of anxiety, stress and irritability.

  • Reproductive health support

Women who are trying to get pregnant may also take oral supplements of chasteberry extract. This regimen is typically followed for at least three months.

FORMS OF CHASTEBERRY

Chasteberry is available in liquid, capsules, and tablets.

 

Source: Healthline

written by Sarah Amah

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GINKO BILOBA

Ginkgo Biloba is a popular supplement and one of the top-selling herbal medicines. The ginkgo tree, also known as the maidenhair tree, is one of the oldest species of trees in the world. Ginkgo Biloba extract is collected from the dried green leaves of the plant and is available as liquid extracts, capsules, and tablets.

Gingko contains high levels of flavonoids and terpenoids, antioxidants that provide protection against oxidative cell damage from harmful free radicals. In this way, antioxidants are believed to help reduce the risk of cancer.

Benefits

The therapeutic properties of the ginkgo plant are said to include;

  • Treatment for blood disorders
  • Improving eye health.
  • It may help with cognitive function.
  • Anxiety.
  • Memory enhancement, dementia, and Alzheimer’s.
  • Improved thinking and memory.
  • Better social behavior.
  • Better ability to perform everyday tasks.
  • Glaucoma.

Side Effects

Possible side effects of Ginkgo Biloba include;

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness
  • Headaches
  • Stomach ache
  • Restlessness
  • Vomiting.

Form and Dosage

Ginkgo is available in capsule form, as tablets, liquid extracts, and dried leaves for teas.

In studies, adults used between 120 and 240 milligrams a day in divided doses. It appears to take 4 to 6 weeks before improvements are noticed.

 

written by: Oreoluwa Hassan

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Gymnemma Leaf

Gymnema (Gymnema sylvestre) is a woody climbing shrub that’s native to the tropical forests of India, Africa and Australia. Its leaves have been used in the ancient Indian medicinal practice Ayurveda for thousands of years. It has been a traditional remedy for various ailments, including diabetes, malaria and snakebites.

Today, gymnema is used for diabetes, metabolic syndrome, weight loss, and cough. It is also used for malaria and as a snake bite antidote, digestive stimulant, laxative, appetite suppressant, and diuretic.

BENEFITS
– Diabetes

Gymnema is perhaps most well known for its ability to help diabetes – including; controlling sugar cravings, pancreas regeneration, blood sugar homeostasis and weight reduction.
This powerful herb contains the phytochemical “gurmarin”, a substance that modifies the ability of the tongue’s perception of sweet and bitter flavours. A study conducted in India revealed that the atomic arrangement of the herb blocks the sugar receptors of taste buds. As a result, sugar taste buds are not stimulated even with sugar intake.

One of the primary active ingredients in Gymnema sylvestre is gymnemic acid – a compound that is structurally similar to glucose but that acts completely differently in the body.
Gymnemic acid can block sugar absorption in the intestine and often results in lower blood sugar levels after a meal.
Gymnema sylvestre may stimulate insulin production in your pancreas, promoting the regeneration of insulin-producing islet cells. This can help lower your blood sugar levels.

As a supplement, it has been used in combination with other diabetes medications to lower blood sugar.
Scientific proof of Gymnema’s ability to lower blood sugar is insufficient to recommend it as a stand-alone diabetes medication. However, research shows strong potential.

– Improves Cholesterol and Triglyceride Levels, Reducing Heart Disease Risk

Gymnema sylvestre may help lower “bad” LDL cholesterol levels and triglycerides. While Gymnema gets its fame from lowering blood sugar levels and reducing sugar cravings, research shows that it may also influence fat absorption and lipid levels.

High levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides are risk factors for heart disease. Therefore, the positive effects of Gymnema sylvestre on LDL and triglycerides levels may contribute to a lower risk of heart conditions.

– Helps Reduce Inflammation Due to Its Tannin and Saponin Content

Inflammation plays an important role in the body’s healing process.
Some inflammation is good, such as when it helps protect the body from harmful organisms in cases of injury or infection.
Other times, inflammation may be caused by the environment or the foods you eat. However, chronic low-grade inflammation can contribute to various health issues.

Possible Side Effects

While its effects on blood sugar are rather positive, combining Gymnema sylvestre with other blood-sugar-lowering medications can cause an unsafe drop in the blood sugar levels.
This can cause side effects, such as headache, nausea, lightheadedness, shakiness and dizziness.

Gymnema sylvestre supplements should not be taken at the same time as blood-sugar-lowering medications, including insulin injections.

Additionally, the supplement should not be taken with aspirin or the herb St. John’s Wort, as this may increase Gymnema’s blood-sugar-lowering effects.

 

Written by: Oreoluwa Hassan 

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