VitaMind By Market America Overview & Drug Interactions

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.

Choline is an essential nutrient that is found in many foods, including eggs, and is important for a number of bodily functions, including liver function, brain development, and nerve function. Choline is a precursor to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in memory, mood, and muscle control. Choline also helps to transport fats out of the liver, which may help to reduce the risk of liver disease. Choline supplements are available in different forms, including choline bitartrate, choline chloride, and phosphatidylcholine. Choline bitartrate is the most common form of choline supplement, but phosphatidylcholine is the form that is found naturally in foods.

L-glutamine is the most abundant free amino acid in the body, produced primarily in skeletal muscle and then released into circulation. It serves vital roles in various tissues, including the immune system, gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, and liver, where it supports essential functions such as maintaining intestinal integrity, immune response, and amino acid balance. Although traditionally classified as a non-essential amino acid, during periods of severe stress, glutamine becomes conditionally essential due to the body's increased demand. It acts as a critical nitrogen and carbon transporter between organs, and while the intestinal mucosa can synthesize glutamine, this production is insufficient during times of significant physiological stress. Dietary supplements generally contain L-glutamine as it is the biologically active form of the amino acid.

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) is a tree native to Asia and is known for its distinctive fan-shaped leaves. The extract of the ginkgo leaf is commonly used in traditional medicine and is one of the most popular dietary supplements consumed worldwide. Its most common use is to help improve memory and cognitive function.

Gotu kola (Centella asiatica) is a perennial herb and a member of the carrot family. It has small, white or pink flowers, fan-shaped leaves and is often found growing in damp, marshy areas. The leaves and stems of the gotu kola plant are used in herbal medicine as a natural remedy for a variety of health conditions, such as gastrointestinal disorders, amenorrhea, eye conditions, heat stroke, leprosy, liver health, lymphatic obstruction, and infections. It is not to be confused with similarly named plant, Cola Nut, or bacopa.

Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus) is a plant native to Asia and a member of the Araliaceae family. It is also commonly known as 'Siberian ginseng' or 'eleuthero root'. The root of the plant is used in traditional medicine for its purported ability to improve physical and mental performance, boost the immune system, and reduce fatigue. It is also claimed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Eleuthero is often referred to as an 'adaptogen'. Adaptogens are believed to help the body resist stress. It is important to note that although eleuthero is known as 'Siberian ginseng', it is not related to Panax ginseng.

Coenzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10, is a naturally occurring substance that is found in every cell of the body and plays an essential role in energy production within the mitochondria, which are the powerhouse of the cells. CoQ10 also acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals. While CoQ10 is endogenous, meaning our body can produce it on its own, levels can decrease with age, with certain medications (e.g., statins) or due to certain medical conditions. In such cases, supplementation with CoQ10 may be beneficial. Additionally, CoQ10 supplements have been studied for a variety of health benefits, including improving heart health, reducing inflammation, and potentially even aiding in the treatment of neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease. However, it's important to note that while some studies have shown potential benefits, the research on CoQ10 supplementation is still ongoing, and more studies are needed to fully understand its effects on the body.