What Can Vitamin Deficiencies Lead To?

Vitamins are essential to healthy living, and they perform best when there are adequate amounts of each and every one. There are many different types of vitamins, each having its own specific benefit to various parts and functions of the human body.

Each vitamin has a complex of symptoms and signs that characterize its deficiency. Currently, the most important benefit attributed to vitamins in general is their anti-oxidant properties. Vitamins A, C, E, and many of the carotenoids and phytochemicals are scavengers for particles known as oxygen-free radicals (or oxidants).

At moderate to high levels, oxidants and free radicals can be very harmful. They can damage cell membranes and interact with genetic material, possibly contributing to the development of a number of disorders including cancer, heart disease, cataracts, and even the aging process itself. Deficiencies of Vitamins A, C, E, and beta carotene have been linked to heart disease. All of these nutrients have antioxidant effects and other properties that may benefit the heart. Vitamin E may prevent blood clots and the formation of fatty plaques and cell proliferation on the walls of the arteries. Other Vitamin E compounds, including gamma tocopherol or tocotrienol may also have specific benefits. Eating foods rich in natural Vitamin E may be protective. Vitamin C appears to maintain blood vessel flexibility and improve circulation in the arteries of smokers. Several important studies have demonstrated a link between deficiencies in the B Vitamins (folate, B6, and B12) and elevated blood levels of homocysteine, an amino acid believed to be a risk factor for atherosclerosis and heart disease. Both Vitamins B12 and folate reduce homocysteine levels. A supplemental dosage of 0.8 mg/ day of folate (also known as folic acid) appears to be necessary for reducing homocysteine levels. Folate also improves blood flow through the arteries, which may be of equal or greater importance for the heart than its effect on homocysteine. Niacin (Vitamin B3) is used for lowering unhealthy cholesterol levels. Although Vitamin B3 is available over the counter, a physician should prescribe niacin in order to ensure its safety and effectiveness.

There are reports that a high intake of fruits and vegetables containing beta carotene, lycopene, and other carotenoids may reduce the risk of heart attack. In another study involving animals, lutein protected against early hardening of the arteries. The protection that vitamins offer us against a variety of other diseases such as heart disease, Alzheimer’s diseases, respiratory diseases and infectious diseases by boosting our immunity and eyes and skin function among others will be lost if these and other vitamins are deficient.

Tags: