Core Level Thiamine By Nutri-West Overview & Drug Interactions

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin found naturally in a variety of foods, including vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, and leafy green vegetables. Vitamin E is also available as a dietary supplement and is often added to skincare products. Vitamin E has many roles in the body, including protecting cells from oxidative stress and supporting immune function.

Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin found in a variety of foods, including meat, poultry, fish, and fortified grains. It plays a variety of roles in the body, including in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also necessary for the production of energy in the body and in the synthesis of different hormones. Niacin deficiency is rare in developed countries, however, supplementation has been shown to have several positive benefits. For example, it can reduce the risk of diabetic neuropathy (i.e., nerve pain) and has been shown effective for treating some types of high cholesterol (extended-release niacin is used as a prescription drug in the United States for this purpose). There is a multitude of niacin forms available as dietary supplements, including NADH, niacinamide, and nicotinamide riboside, all with different properties.

Magnesium is a mineral that is essential for the proper functioning of the body. It plays a role in many important physiological processes, including the contraction and relaxation of muscles, the transmission of nerve impulses, and the regulation of blood pressure. Magnesium is found in a variety of foods, including leafy green vegetables, nuts, and grains, and it is also available as a dietary supplement. There are several different forms of magnesium that are available as supplements, all of which can be used to prevent deficiency. Additionally, magnesium is purported to have several different health benefits, such as improving sleep, reducing muscle cramps, reducing anxiety, and preventing or treating migraines. Although magnesium is essential for health, magnesium-containing foods and supplements can interact with some prescription medications if used at the same time.

Calcium is a vital nutrient found in various foods such as dairy products, certain vegetables, and many fortified items. Over 99% of the body's calcium is stored in the bones and teeth, predominantly as hydroxyapatite. The remaining calcium circulates in the blood, extracellular fluid, muscles, and other tissues, where it is essential for processes like nerve signaling, muscle contraction, vascular activities, glandular secretion, and maintaining cell membrane and capillary permeability. It also plays critical roles in enzyme reactions, respiration, kidney function, and blood clotting, and is involved in neurotransmitter and hormone release, amino acid uptake, vitamin B12 absorption, and gastrin secretion. Calcium balance changes with age: it is positive during periods of growth, stable in adulthood, and tends to become negative in older age. Calcium loss occurs through feces, urine, sweat, and shedding skin cells. In women, reduced estrogen levels decrease calcium absorption and retention, increase bone turnover, and lead to lower bone mass. Calcium supplements come in various forms, including citrate and carbonate, which differ mainly in their calcium content and absorption rates. Calcium citrate is easily absorbed and can be taken without food, making it suitable for older adults or those with low stomach acid. In contrast, calcium carbonate, which contains a higher percentage of calcium, is best absorbed when taken with meals.

Zinc is a mineral that is essential for the proper functioning of the human body. It is involved in many important physiological processes, including immune system function, wound healing, taste, and smell. Zinc is found in a variety of foods, including meat, seafood, and whole grains, and it is also available as a dietary supplement. Zinc supplements may be used to treat or prevent zinc deficiency, which can occur due to certain medical conditions, such as gastrointestinal disorders, alcohol abuse, and certain medications. Zinc supplements may also be used for other purposes, such as to boost the immune system, improve acne, and reduce the severity and duration of colds. There are several different forms of zinc supplements available, including zinc gluconate, zinc acetate, and zinc sulfate. The most common form of zinc supplements is zinc gluconate, which is well absorbed and is less likely to cause stomach-related side effects than other forms of zinc.

L-Threonine is an essential amino acid, meaning it must be obtained through the diet since the body cannot produce it on its own. It plays a crucial role in supporting overall health and well-being. L-Threonine is involved in protein synthesis, aiding in the formation of collagen, elastin, and muscle tissue. It also contributes to maintaining proper immune function and balancing nitrogen levels within the body.

Licorice, also known as glycyrrhiza, is a plant native to parts of Europe, Asia, and the Mediterranean region. The root of the plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and is often consumed in the form of candy, tea, and supplements. Licorice has a number of purported health benefits, including the ability to soothe sore throats, reduce inflammation, and improve digestive problems. It may also have antiviral and antibacterial properties. Licorice naturally contains glycyrrhizin, or glycyrrhizic acid, which can have toxic effects if consumed in large amounts. However, licorice can be processed to remove glycyrrhizin, resulting in DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice). Many dietary supplements that contain deglycyrrhizinated licorice are often simply named 'DGL'.

Chickweed (Stellaria media) is a common and widespread wild plant, recognized for its low-growing, mat-forming habit and delicate, star-shaped white flowers. Chickweed tea has also traditionally been used as a medicine. Traditional medicinal applications of chickweed encompass a range of uses, including addressing scurvy, gastrointestinal disorders, musculoskeletal disorders, blood disorders, and aiding in wound healing. Despite its classification as a weed in some contexts, chickweed holds value for both culinary and traditional medicinal practices.