Hair, Skin, & Nails By Ultimate Nutrition 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.

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin crucial for several bodily functions. It plays a pivotal role in the formation of red blood cells, aiding in the prevention of anemia. Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining a healthy nervous system and proper brain function, as it is involved in the synthesis of myelin, the protective sheath around nerve fibers. This vitamin is primarily found in animal-based foods such as meat, fish, dairy products, and eggs, making it important for vegetarians and vegans to consider supplementation. A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to neurological issues, fatigue, and cognitive impairment.

Biotin, also known as vitamin H or vitamin B7, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a role in various metabolic processes in the body. It is necessary for the growth and maintenance of healthy skin, hair, and nails, and is also involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and amino acids. Biotin is considered to be generally safe when consumed in the recommended daily amounts but it is important to note that consuming large amounts of biotin-containing supplements or products can cause falsely high or falsely low test results for certain laboratory tests, such as those for thyroid function, hormone levels, and certain biomarkers for certain diseases.

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.

Collagen peptides are a form of collagen, a protein that is found in the connective tissue of animals. Collagen is a major component of the skin, tendons, ligaments, and bones, and it plays a key role in maintaining the strength and integrity of these tissues. Collagen peptides are made by breaking down collagen into smaller pieces, or peptides, which can be more easily absorbed by the body. It is sold as a dietary supplement and often marketed as being able to improve skin health, reduce inflammation, and enhance joint function. There is some evidence to suggest that collagen peptides may have certain health benefits when taken as a supplement. For example, studies have shown that collagen peptides can improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, as well as reduce joint pain and improve mobility in people with osteoarthritis. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of taking collagen peptides as a supplement. As a dietary protein, it is thought to be relatively safe to combine with most drugs.