Glossary
Select the letter of the word that you seek from the list above or scroll down to review the entries.
A
Acne - A chronic inflammatory disease of the skin. A number of factors influence acne including overproduction of sebum and keratin, the buildup of bacteria in the skin and the inflammatory response. The male hormones or androgens are also believed to play a role in acne because they effect the production of sebum. Most topical acne treatments focus on reducing sebum, reducing cornification (the buildup of dead skin cells that are sloughed off) and reducing inflammation.
Alpha-Linolenic Acid (LNA) - An essential fatty acid that must be obtained through diet or supplementation. Alpha-linolenic acid belongs to the Omega-3 group of fatty acids. Cold water fish such as mackerel and salmon provide good sources of ALA. However, flax seed oil provides the highest concentration of this important nutrient (57% by weight).
Alpha-Linoleic Acid (LA) - An essential fatty acid that must be obtained through diet or supplementation. Alpha-linoleic acid belongs to the Omega-6 group of fatty acids. Most packaged products contain various types of Omega-6 oils including corn, safflower, sunflower, and sesame. Unfortunately, most manufacturers use a process called "hydrogentation" which extends shelf-life but changes the nature of the oils to a more detrimental form.
Alpha Lipoic Acid - A versatile antioxidant that functions in either water-soluble or fat-soluble environments. Alpha-lipoic acid ( ALA ) also regenerates other antioxidants.
Antioxidants - A group of compounds that help to protect the body from the formation and elimination of free-radicals. Free-radicals are formed from exposure to sunlight and pollution and also as a byproduct of cell metabolism. Alcohol, cigarette smoke, stress and even diet also affect the level of free-radical development in the body. Excellent antioxidants include Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, zinc, selenium, ginkgo biloba, grape seed extract, and green tea extract.
Arginine - An amino acid that is conditionally essential under certain circumstances such as stress or surgery. Arginine is essential for efficient wound repair and normal immune function.
Arnica Montana (Leopard's Bane) - A plant that has been used for hundreds of years in homeopathic medicine to treat bruises, injuries and soreness.
B
B-Complex - A term that refers to the family of water-soluble B-vitamins including B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin, niacinaminde), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B12 (cobalamin, cyanocobalamin), folic acid, PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid) biotin, choline and inositol. It is best to take the B-vitamins as a complex and not as singular supplements.
Beta Carotene - A type of carotene (see carotenoids) that is a pre-cursor to Vitamin A. Beta carotene has been the most studied of all the carotenes and is known for its antioxidant protective benefits. Beta carotene is a flavonoid that gives apricots, carrots, peaches and sweet potatoes their color.
Betatene ® - A naturally, occurring blend of carotenes including beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, cryptoxanthin, zeaxanthin and lutein. Betatene is derived from D. salina algae and is grown on the world's largest cultivated algae farm, located in Whyalla , Australia .
Biological Value (BV) - A measure of protein "quality" which refers to how well or poorly the body is able to use a protein. The BV of a protein measures its efficiency in supporting the body's needs. Whey protein has a high biological value compared with other proteins (i.e., 104 for whey protein vs. 100 for eggs, 74 for soy protein and 54 for wheat).
Biotin - An essential nutrient that is part of the "B-complex" family of vitamins. Biotin is necessary for healthy hair, skin and nails (these products often contain high amounts of biotin). Biotin is also essential for normal metabolism of fat and protein and aids in cell growth and fatty acid production. Biotin also aids in the utilization of the other B-complex vitamins.
Boron - A trace mineral needed for healthy bones. Boron aids in the metabolism of calcium, phosphorus and magnesium and enhances brain function and promotes alertness.
Boswellia Serrata - Boswellia serrata is an ayurvedic plant that contains anti-inflammatory compounds. The plant's derivatives also have anti-carcinogenic and anti-tumor activities.
Bromelain - A proteolytic enzyme (digests protein) that is extracted from the root of the pineapple stem. Bromelain's most common application is in the treatment of inflammation and soft tissue injuries.
Burdock (Root) - An herb that is a skin and blood cleanser with antibacterial and anti-fungal properties.
C
Calcium - A bulk mineral that maintains strong bones and healthy teeth and helps to keep the skin healthy. Calcium also aids the nervous system and is important for maintenance of a regular heartbeat.
Carotenoids or Carotenes - A group of fat-soluble compounds produced by plants that provide protection from free-radicals as a result of photosynthesis. It is believed that these protective benefits are passed along when these plants are consumed by humans. Some carotenes can be converted into Vitamin A (retinal) such as beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, and gamma-carotene. Other carotenes cannot be converted into Vitamin A but still offer many protective benefits. These include lycopene, zeaxanthin, and lutein.
Cartilage - Cartilage is the shock-absorbing gel-like material that cushions bones. Cartilage is over 75% water and acts as a sponge, holding fluids to ensure softness and joint lubrication. Some people lose the ability to manufacture sufficient levels of glucosamine, an important component of cartilage. The result is that the cartilage loses its ability to act as a shock absorber.
Chelation - A process that combines a mineral with an amino acid. Our bodies have a difficult time absorbing minerals and chelation provides for better absorption.
Choline - An essential nutrient that is part of the "B-complex" family of vitamins. Choline works with inositol (another B-complex vitamin) to utilize fats and cholesterol. Choline aids hormone production and is needed for the proper transmission of nerve impulses, liver function and gallbladder regulation.
Chondrocytes - Special cells that produce new collagen and proteoglycans. They are also responsible for producing an enzyme that helps to break down old collagen and proteoglycans.
Chondroitin Sulfate - Chondroitin sulfate is an important component in the creation of cartilage. It is composed of repeating units of glucosamine with attached sugar molecules that are referred to as glycosaminoglycans. Like glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate attracts water, thereby helping to cushion the joints. Supplemental chondroitin sulfate is typically derived from shark cartilage or cow-trachea cartilage and is used in the treatment of osteoarthritis.
Chromium - A trace mineral that works with insulin in the metabolism of sugar and is needed for energy.
Chronotherapy - The literal interpretation of chronotherapy is therapy based on the use of time and the understanding that our bodies work in cycles. The daytime cycle is dynamic and energy demanding; whereas the nighttime cycle is restful and restorative. Supplements can provide a special combination of nutrients to support daytime and evening activities. In the daytime, vitamins can help to maintain energy and alertness, while stabilizing blood glucose levels. In the evening, minerals can help to promote rest and relaxation, enhance dreaming during sleep and restore brain neuro-chemicals.
Citrus Bioflavonoids - A group of substances that is responsible for giving fruits and vegetables their color. Bioflavonoids have antioxidant properties, providing protective benefits for plants. These benefits are passed onto humans when consumed as foods. Citrus bioflavonoids enhance the absorption of Vitamin C, have an antibacterial effect and promote circulation.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) - CoQ10 is also known as ubiquinone because it is found widely in plants and animals. CoQ10 is found in the mitochondria of cells (the "powerplant") and is essential for energy production. Like vitamin E, CoQ10 plays a critical role as an antioxidant in cellular membranes and plasma lipoproteins.
Collagen - A protein that comprises about 72% of the skin. Collagen is responsible for giving skin its strength. Collagen is a fibrous protein that is the main component of cartilage and provides the supportive structure.
Colostrum - Also known as "mother's first milk", colostrum is emitted by the mammary glands during the first 24-48 hours after birth. This thick, yellow substance is rich in nutrients and other important substances including immune factors that protect against invading organisms and facilitate development of a strong immune system.
Copper - A trace mineral that aids in the formation of bone, hemoglobin and red blood cells. Copper works in balance with vitamin C and zinc to form elastin and is essential for the formation of collagen. Copper is involved in the healing process and in energy production.
Cosmeceutical - Cosmetic products that provide aesthetic as well as medical benefits to improve the overall look of the skin.
Cysteine - A sulfur containing amino acid that is important for healthy skin functioning. Cysteine aids in the production of collagen and promotes proper skin elasticity and texture. Cysteine is also a powerful detoxifier of alcohol, smoke and environmental pollutants.
D
Dandelion (Root) - An herb that is a skin detoxifier and cleanser.
Dermatan Sulfate - Both dermatan sulfate and hyaluronic acid, which are found primarily in the skin, belong to a class of molecules called glycosaminoglycans. These large sugar and protein molecules attract and hold water and therefore provide structural integrity, lubrication and hydration to the skin.
Dermis - The inner layer of the skin which serves many important functions including fluid and temperature regulation, skin cell replacement, protection and removal of toxins.
Detoxification - A number of systems are responsible for removing toxins that build up in the body as a result of normal biologic processes, smoke, alcohol, drugs, diet, stress and exposure to UV rays. These systems include the kidney and liver but also the skin. In fact, the skin is often called the "third kidney" because if the kidneys become overloaded with toxins, then the skin will help to eliminate them from the body.
Dietary Supplement - Under the Dietary Supplement Health & Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994, a dietary supplement is a product that contains one or more of the following ingredients: vitamin, mineral, herb or other botanical, amino acid, or dietary substance to supplement the diet.
Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) - DHA is a polyunsaturated fat that belongs to the Omega-3 family. Like Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA), DHA is found in cold water fish like salmon, sardines, mackerel and trout. Both EPA and DHA benefit the cardiovascular system by keeping platelets from getting too sticky, lowering repair proteins to keep arteries more open and lowering triglycerides.
E
Epidermis - The outer layer of the skin which provides protection against the elements. The epidermis replaces itself about every 45-75 days and is comprised of four layers: stratum corneum, granular layer, spinous layer and basal layer. The stratum corneum is the outer most layer and is primarily made up of keratin proteins. The basal layer is where the cells grow and divide.
Essential Fatty Acids - An essential fatty acid is a nutrient that must be obtained through diet or supplementation. See also Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA) and Alpha-Linoleic Acid (LA) fatty acids.
Elastin - Elastin is our body's structural protein that gives elasticity to our tissues and organs. Elastin is found predominantly in the walls of our arteries, in our lungs, intestines, and skin, as well as in other elastic tissues. It functions in connective tissue in partnership with collagen. Whereas collagen provides rigidity, elastin is the protein which allows the connective tissues in our blood vessels and heart tissues, for example, to stretch and then recoil to their original positions.
Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) - EPA is a polyunsaturated fat that belongs to the Omega-3 family. EPA is found in cold water fish like salmon, sardines, mackerel and trout. EPA is the starting material for the series 3 prostaglandins - hormone-like compounds that play a role in blood pressure, cholesterol, triglycerides, kidney function, inflammatory response and immune function. A function of EPA is to also prevent the pro-inflammatory series 2 prostaglandins from forming by inhibiting the production of Arachidonic Acid (AA).
F
Fat-Soluble Vitamins - Vitamins can be classified into two groups: water-soluble and fat-soluble. Water-soluble vitamins must be taken into the body daily as they can't be stored and are excreted within one to four days. Fat-soluble vitamins can be stored for longer periods of time in the body's fatty tissue and liver. The fat-soluble vitamins include Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin E and Vitamin K.
Flavonoid - Flavonoids give plants their color but also provide significant antioxidant protection. Examples of common flavonoids include the citrus bioflavonoids, quercetin, grape seed extract, and green tea.
Flax Seed Oil - A polyunsaturated oil derived from flax seeds. Flax seed oil is high in lignans which have anti-cancer fighting properties. The oil also provides the most concentrated form of Omega-3 essential fatty acids.
Folic Acid - An essential nutrient that is part of the "B-complex" family of vitamins. Also known as vitamin B9, folic acid is essential for the division of the body's cells. It is needed for utilization of sugar and amino acids and for energy production and formation of red blood cells. Folic acid also aids in the proper functioning of white blood cells.
Free-Radical - A by-product of normal cellular activity and as a result of exposure to UV rays, pollution, smoke, drugs, and chemicals. Free-radicals are unstable oxygen molecules that can be quite destructive. Although our bodies naturally eliminate free radicals, our ability to handle this process becomes more difficult as we age. This is important because researchers believe that free radical damage contributes to aging. A number of nutrients including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, selenium, green tea, grape seed extract and gingko biloba have powerful antioxidant properties.
Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) - A special type of food that is used by "beneficial" bacteria (such as bifidobacteria or lactobacillus) that normally reside in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. An adequate supply of FOS after surgery is particularly useful as the broad-spectrum antibiotics that are routinely prescribed peri-operatively, reduce both "bad" and "good" gut bacteria.
Functional Food - A food product that provides health benefits beyond simply energy and essential nutrients. Functional foods have extra components or ingredients to give them a specific medical or physiological benefit, other than a purely nutritional benefit. Examples of functional foods include Omega-3 enhanced eggs; food spreads like Benecol® that are enhanced with stanol esters to lower cholesterol and lycopene-enhanced tomatoes to provide increased amounts of the important carotenoid, lycopene.
G
Glucosamine - Glucosamine is a naturally occurring compound that plays an important role in joint health. Glucosamine is a simple molecule composed of glucose and an amine (nitrogen + two molecules of hydrogen) that is manufactured by the body. There are no food sources of glucosamine. Commercially available sources of glucosamine are derived from chitin (shells of certain shell fish such as crab, lobster and shrimp).
Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) - Proteoglycans are large molecules that attract and hold water thereby providing cushioning for the joint. Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are a type of proteoglycan. Glucosamine is a precursor of GAGs.
Green Tea (Camellia sinensis) - A plant that has traditionally been used for tea but more recently has been studied for its potent antioxidant and antitumor protective benefits. Green tea appears to play a role in the prevention of skin and other cancers. Green tea contains a family of protective compounds called polyphenols with the most potent called epigallocatechin gallate or EGCG.
Ginkgo Biloba (Maidenhair Tree) - An herb that has received notoriety recently for its benefits in promoting mental functioning and circulation and increasing the flow of oxygen to the heart, brain and body. However, ginkgo biloba also has excellent antioxidant protective benefits.
Glutamine - An amino acid that is conditionally essential under certain circumstances such as stress or surgery. Glutamine is necessary for proper wound healing as cells of the immune system depend on this amino acid as a primary fuel source.
Grape Seed Extract - An antioxidant that belongs to a group of plant flavonoids called proanthocyanidins or OPCs for short. Flavonoids give plants their color but also provide significant antioxidant protection. The antioxidant activity of OPCs is about 50 times greater than that of Vitamin C and Vitamin E. OPCs are particularly important for supporting the development and preventing the destruction of collagen.
H
Homeopathy - The literal interpretation of homeopathy is "like treating like". The principle behind homeopathy is that our bodies have natural defense mechanisms to aid in healing. This is often reflected as symptoms. While prescription medications tend to suppress symptoms, homeopathic medications try to elicit them. This approach helps to heal the body faster and is intended to stimulate a person's overall resistance to infection.
Hyaluronic Acid - Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a key component of all connective tissue in the body. HA is a special type of large protein and sugar molecule known as a glycosaminoglycan (GAG). The molecular structure of GAGs gives them their unique ability to attract and hold water. Nearly 50% of the body's HA is found in the dermis in the ground substance or extracellular matrix between cells. Hyaluronic acid, along with dermatan sulfate, serves to maintain the water balance in the dermis, to add support for other dermal components and to act as a matrix for cell migration, metabolism, and growth.
Hylaform® - An FDA-approved dermal (skin) filler made from a highly purified form of hyaluronic acid (hyaluranon derived from rooster combs and marketed by Inamed) that mimics the effects of natural hyaluronic acid. When injected just below the surface of the skin, Hylaform adds volume to the skin, smoothing unwanted lines and wrinkles
I
Immunoglobulin - Proteins with antibody activity that play an essential role in defending the organism against foreign proteins. Also known as antibodies and gamma globulins, they're induced by and released into the bloodstream in response to infections. Colostrum or "mother's first milk" is high in immunoglobulins and helps to impart immunity to the newborn fetus. Immunoglobulins are the most important and most prevalent immune factors in bovine colostrum.
Inositol - An essential nutrient that is part of the "B-complex" family of vitamins. Inositol is vital for hair growth and promotes healthy hair. Inositol has a calming effect and helps to reduce cholesterol levels. Inositol also helps in the prevention of eczema.
J
K
Keratin - A tough, fibrous protein that comprises much of the hair, skin and nails.
L
Lactoferrin - An immune-enhancing nutrient that provides well-documented antibacterial, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and immune modulating effects.
Lutein - A type of carotenoid that is often found in combination with zeaxanthin and that is an excellent antioxidant. Clinical studies have shown that lutein provides antioxidant protection effects to skin cells suffering from sun-induced free radical damage. Lutein also reduces the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of blindness in adults.
M
Magnesium - A bulk mineral that helps prevent calcium deposits, kidney and gallstones. Magnesium, also known as the "anti-stress" mineral, is essential for effective nerve and muscle functioning. This mineral is also important for converting blood sugar into energy and assists in calcium and potassium uptake.
Manganese - A trace mineral that is important for reproduction and normal central nervous system function. Manganese is necessary for proper digestion and utilization of food. It also helps activate enzymes necessary for the body's proper use of biotin, vitamin B1 and vitamin C.
Milk Clotting Units - Unlike vitamins and minerals, which are measured in a variety of ways including milligrams (mg), micrograms (mcg), or International Units (IU), bromelain is measured by either milk clotting units (mcus) or gelatin dissolving units (gdus). MCUs and GDUs are used somewhat interchangeably (1 GDU equals 1.5 MCU) and relate to the activity level of the bromelain. Since bromelain is an enzyme, a measure of its strength is how quickly it can dissolve a protein. The unit of measurement is either a MCU or GDU. To be effective, at least 2,000 MCUs must be consumed in divided amounts during the course of a day.
Milk Fractions - The biologically active components that are normally present in whey protein. The milk fractions in whey protein include b-lactoglobulin, a-lactalbumin, immunoglobulins and bovine serum albumin. These specialized proteins are particularly important for immune enhancement. Other milk fractions including lactoferrin have antibacterial properties.
Milk Thistle - A powerful antioxidant that contains potent liver protecting substances. The active compound silymarin also stimulates the production of new liver cells.
Mineral - Vitamins and minerals are essential components in enzymes and coenzymes. Enzymes are molecules involved in speeding up chemical reactions necessary for human bodily function. Coenzymes are molecules that help the enzymes in their chemical reactions. Minerals can be classified as either bulk or trace. Bulk minerals are needed in larger amounts than trace minerals and include calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium and phosphorus. Trace minerals are needed in only minute quantities and include boron, chromium, copper, iodine, iron, manganese, molybdenum, selenium, and zinc.
Molybdenum - A trace mineral that is needed for proper sulfur metabolism. Molybdenum aids in carbohydrate and fat metabolism and promotes normal cell function.
Monounsaturated Fats - F ats can be classified as saturated, monounsaturated or polyunsaturated. Monounsaturated fats are a better choice than saturated fats, but polyunsaturated fats have the least amount of saturation. Fats play a role in health and the saturated versions tend to raise blood cholesterol. A popular monounsaturated fat is olive oil.
MSM (Methyl-sulfonyl-methane) - A natural form of organic sulfur that is necessary for collagen synthesis and is very important in building the sulfur amino acids methionine and cysteine.. MSM is also a natural antiseptic. Vitamin C provides a synergistic effect when taken in combination with MSM.
N
Nutraceutical - Nutritional supplements that have pharmaceutical properties; Vitamins, minerals, herbs or other nutrients that are formulated to maintain health, or to prevent ailments and disease.
O
Omega-3 Fatty Acids - A group of superunsaturated fatty acids, which are very important for health. The Omega-3 fatty acids include Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA), which must be obtained through diet or supplementation. Flax seed oil is the richest source of this important essential fatty acid. Also included in the Omega-3 family are Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) both of which are found in the oils of cold-water fish such as mackerel, salmon and sardines.
Omega-6 Fatty Acids - A group of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are very important for health. The Omega-6 fatty acids include Linoleic Acid (LA), which must be obtained through diet or supplementation. Linoleic Acid is found in safflower, sunflower, soybean, pumpkin and sesame. Also included in the Omega-6 group of fatty acids is Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA), which is found in evening primrose, borage and black currant seed oil.
Omega-7 Fatty Acids - A group of monounsatured fatty acids. Palmitoleic Acid (POA), a type of Omega-7 fatty acid is found in tropical oils, especially coconut and palm kernel.
Omega-9 Fatty Acids - A group of monounsatured fatty acids. Oleic Acid (OA), a type of Omega-9 fatty acid, is found in large quantities in olive, avocado, peanut, pecan, cashew and macadamia oils.
Oregon Grape (Root) - An herb that is a skin cleanser and blood purifier. Orgeon Grape is good for many skin conditions including acne and psoriasis.
Osteoarthritis - Osteoarthritis is also known as degenerative joint disease. The disease usually starts as mild early morning stiffness. As the disease progresses, there is pain which is made worse with activity and better with rest. Osteoarthritis is not usually characterized by inflammation. The disease most often affects the weight-bearing joints such as knees, hips, and joints of hands.
P
Panthenol - Panthenol is a member of the B-vitamin family and is often used in hair, skin and nail formulations. Panthenol, which is converted in the skin to pantothenic acid, is a water-soluble humectant that imparts moisturization and promotes normal keratinization.
Partially-Hydrogenated Fat - A process that manufacturers use to extend the shelf life of many packaged foods especially cookies, cakes and crackers. Partial hydrogenation is a process that converts a polyunsaturated oil into a more solid or saturated form. This process creates trans-fatty acids that create many problems and are difficult for the body to remove.
Photoaging - Changes in the skin such as wrinkling, sagging and discoloration as the result of exposure to the sun. Also known as "actinic" damage, it is estimated that over 90% of aging is a result of sun exposure.
Polyunsaturated Fats - Fats can be classified as saturated, monounsaturated or polyunsaturated. Polyunsaturated fats have the least amount of saturation. The more saturated fats play a role in health and tend to raise blood cholesterol. Popular polyunsaturated fats include safflower, corn, sesame and sunflower oils.
Potassium - A bulk mineral that works with sodium to regulate the body's water balance. Potassium is important for a healthy nervous system and a regular heartbeat.
Potency - A term used in homeopathy to determine the strength of the formulation. Potency is usually expressed in "C" or in "X" terms. The higher the "C" or "X" number, the stronger the potency of the homeopathic formula.
Proteoglycans - Proteoglycans are large molecules that attract and hold water thereby providing cushioning for the joint. Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are a type of proteoglycan.
Pycnogenol® - Pycnogenol is extracted from the bark of the French maritime pine tree. The extract acts as a powerful antioxidant to neutralize free-radicals that contribute to premature aging. It possesses a broad spectrum of biological, pharmacological and therapeutic activities against free-radicals and oxidative stress. Pycnogenol also protects collagen and elastin and helps rebuild skin tissue.
Q
Quercetin - A type of flavonoid (plant pigments that give plants & fruits their color) that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
R
Restylane® - A safe and natural cosmetic dermal filler that restores volume and fullness to the skin to correct facial wrinkles and folds, such as nasolabial folds . Restylane is made of hyaluronic acid , a natural substance that already exists in the human body.
S
Saturated Fat - Fats can be classified as saturated, monounsaturated or polyunsaturated. Polyunsaturated fats have the least amount of saturation. The more saturated fats play a role in health and tend to raise blood cholesterol. Popular saturated fats include butter, palm kernel oil and coconut oil.
Sebum - A wax-like substance that is secreted by the sebaceous glands, located in the skin. Sebum production is influenced by androgens or male hormones. Excess sebum production is a contributory factor in acne.
Selenium - A mineral that has potent antioxidant properties. Selenium inhibits the oxidation of fats and protects vitamin E.
T
U
V
Vitamin - An essential nutrient that is required by the body and that must be obtained through diet or supplementation. Vitamins and minerals are essential components in enzymes (speed up reactions) and coenzymes (help enzymes in their chemical reactions). Vitamins can be classified into two groups: water-soluble and fat-soluble. Water-soluble vitamins must be taken into the body daily as they can't be stored and are excreted within one to four days. Fat-soluble vitamins can be stored for longer periods of time in the body's fatty tissue and liver.
Vitamin A - A fat-soluble essential nutrient that must be obtained through diet or supplementation. Vitamin A is an antioxidant that protects against cancer and is necessary for new cell growth. Prevents skin disorders and helps treat superficial wrinkles. Needed for maintenance and repair of epithelial tissue. Helps remove age spots.
Vitamin C - An important water-soluble essential nutrient that is important for antioxidant protection. Vitamin C plays a primary role in the formation of collagen and is needed for tissue growth and repair. This important antioxidant promotes the healing of wounds, protects against blood clotting and bruising. It also protects against the harmful effects of pollution, helps to prevent cancer and enhances immunity.
Vitamin D - Necessary for growth and development of bones & teeth. Important in prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. Required for proper absorption & utilization of calcium and phosphorus.
Vitamin E - Important antioxidant that prevents oxidation of fats and Vitamin A. Promotes healing, healthy skin and hair. Retards aging, enhances UV blockers in sunscreen and is a natural moisturizer. Vitamin E is composed of a compound called tocopherols. Of the eight tocopherols, the most effective is d-alpha-tocopherol.
Vitamin K - An essential nutrient needed for bone formation and repair and for blood clotting. Vitamin K, along with Vitamin D and calcium, play an important role in the prevention of the bone thinning condition called osteoporosis.
Vitamin B1 - An essential nutrient that is part of the "B-complex" family. Also known as thiamine, vitamin B1 is known as the "morale vitamin" because of its beneficial effects on the nervous system and mental attitude. B1 also enhances circulation, aids digestion (especially carbohydrates), and promotes growth.
Vitamin B2 - An essential nutrient that is part of the "B-complex" family. More commonly referred to as riboflavin, vitamin B2 promotes healthy skin, nails and hair. B2 also aids in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. B2 is necessary for red blood cell formation, antibody production, cell respiration and growth.
Vitamin B3 - An essential nutrient that is part of the "B-complex" family. More commonly referred to as niacin, vitamin B3 is necessary for proper circulation and healthy skin. B3 aids in functioning of the nervous system, in promoting a healthy digestive system and reduces cholesterol and triglycerides.
Vitamin B5 - An essential nutrient that is part of the "B-complex" family. Also referred to as pantothenic acid and the "anti-stress" vitamin, B5 plays a role in the production of adrenal hormones. B5 is essential for the conversion of fat and sugar into energy and is necessary for the synthesis of antibodies.
Vitamin B6 - An essential nutrient that is part of the "B-complex" family. Also known as pyridoxine, vitamin B6 helps with the digestion of fats and protein and maintains the sodium and potassium balance in the body's cells. B6 promotes red blood cell formation and aids in the prevention of arteriosclerosis.
Vitamin B12 - An essential nutrient that is part of the "B-complex" family. Also known as cobalamin, vitamin B12 helps in the development and maintenance of nerves. B12 is needed to prevent anemia and aids folic acid in regulating red blood cells and helps in the utilization of iron.
W
Water-soluble Vitamins - Vitamins can be classified into two groups: water-soluble and fat-soluble. Water-soluble vitamins must be taken into the body daily as they can't be stored and are excreted within one to four days. Fat-soluble vitamins can be stored for longer periods of time in the body's fatty tissue and liver. The water-soluble vitamins include Vitamin C, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B6, Biotin, Pantothenic Acid, Folic Acid and Vitamin B12. The "unofficial" water-soluble vitamins include choline and inositol.
Whey Protein Concentrate (WPC) - When casein is removed from bovine whole milk, liquid whey remains and has a protein concentration of about 65%. A manufacturing process using ultrafiltration and microfiltration techniques uses microscopic filters to physically separate the protein from fat and lactose. The resulting whey protein concentrate is about 80-85% protein.
Whey Protein Hydrolysate (WPH) - When Whey Protein Concentrate (WPC) is further processed into smaller proteins using hydrolysis, the resulting Whey Protein Hydrolysates (WPH) is formed. This manufacturing method can produce proteins with well-defined peptide profiles. Due to their smaller size, WPH are more easily absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and for this reason are often referred to as "pre-digested" proteins.
Whey Protein Isolate (WPI) - Whey Protein Isolate is produced by the additional filtering of Whey Protein Concentrate (WPC) through an ion-exchange process. As a result, WPI is lower in fat, carbohydrates and lactose than WPC and higher in protein (over 90%). However, as a consequence of further processing, WPI is lower in milk fractions (active biological compounds) than WPC.
X
Y
Yellow Dock (Root) - An herb that is a skin, blood and liver cleanser that contains Vitamin C and iron.
Z
Zinc - A trace miner al that is essential for protein synthesis and collagen formation. Zinc is also an antioxidant that promotes a healthy immune system and aids in the healing of wounds. Zinc increases the absorption of vitamin A and helps to prevent acne and regulate activity of the oil glands.