Women's Phase I By Vitanica 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.

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.

Iodine is a mineral that is crucial for our body's ability to produce thyroid hormone, which helps control our growth, metabolism, and energy levels. A lack of iodine in the diet is a common problem around the world and can lead to intellectual development issues. Adding iodine to salt (i.e., iodized salt) has helped reduce this problem. Iodine is commonly utilized as a dietary supplement, both in multivitamin preparations and as a standalone ingredient as it is purported to have overall health and wellness benefits, not just in those who are deficient. One such standalone iodine product is 'Iodoral'. Studies have shown iodine supplementation may help improve cognitive function and boost energy levels but more research is needed. It is recommended that you should be under medical supervision if you plan on taking iodine as there may be a risk of certain side effects with high dosages.

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.

Chromium is a trace mineral that is found in small amounts in the human body. It is believed to play a role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is used as a dietary supplement for its purported ability to help with weight loss and blood sugar control. There is some evidence to suggest that chromium supplements may help to improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes, although the results of studies on this topic have been mixed. Some studies have found that chromium supplements can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels in those with poorly controlled diabetes, while others have found no significant effects.

Borage (Borago officinalis) is an herb native to the Mediterranean region. It is known for its hairy, light blue flowers and hairy, hairy leaves. In herbal medicine, borage is used to treat a wide range of health conditions, including respiratory problems, inflammation, and anxiety. It is also used to stimulate the appetite and to help improve mood. Borage oil, which is extracted from the seeds of the plant and contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid, is used topically to treat skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis. Borage must be used cautiously if taken orally as the plant parts may contain liver-toxic compounds (pyrrolizidine alkaloids). It is important to only ingest preparations that are free of pyrrolizidine alkaloids.

Dandelion is a plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to Europe, Asia, and the Americas, and is known for its distinctive, bright yellow flowers and puffy, white seed heads. Although considered a weed by many, it is considered valuable for a number of reasons as it can be used as food, in medicine, and to attract pollinators. Dandelion has a long history of use as a medicinal plant. It has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including liver and gallbladder problems, kidney disorders, skin conditions, and digestive issues. It is also purported to have a diuretic effect and dietary supplements containing dandelion often market it for being able to help reduce water retention.

Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) is a plant native to Asia and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It is often referred to as "female ginseng" and is used to treat a variety of health conditions, particularly those related to the female reproductive system. It is also claimed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties as well as an ability to improve blood circulation. When utilized for dietary supplements, the root of Dong quai is used.

Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) is a climbing vine with fragrant white and purple flowers that is native to the Americas. It is purported to have a number of potential health benefits, including reducing anxiety and improving sleep. It is thought to work by increasing the levels of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a neurotransmitter in the brain that helps regulate mood and anxiety. Passionflower may also have mild sedative and muscle-relaxing effects and may be helpful in the treatment of muscle spasms and other muscle disorders. Dietary supplements containing passionflower are generally standardized to contain no less than 1.5% of the flavanoid vitexin.

St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) is a plant native to Europe and is known for its medicinal properties. St. John's wort has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. It is one of the most extensively used and researched natural medicines in the world, and is thought to work similarly to certain conventional antidepressants by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain.

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.