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Uses of Phosphorous in the Daily Diet: Phosphorus Health Benefits and Food Sources

Tuesday, November 8, 2011 · Posted in , , , , , , , ,

Phosphorus is one of the most essential mineral in the body and is ranked second to calcium. Estimates suggest that about 80% of all phosphorus is present in the form of calcium phosphate in the teeth and bones. Though the deficiency of phosphorous is relatively rare, the condition can often be associated with a host of problems.

Phosphorus Supplements: Phosphorus Dietary Supplement

Phosphorus is available as potassium phosphate or sodium phosphate. Potassium phosphate exists as monobasic, dibasic, and tribasic potassium phosphate; whilst, sodium phosphate exists as monobasic, dibasic, and tribasic sodium phosphate. Some preparations blend together 2 or more of the forms. Medical supervision is extremely crucial when managing phosphorus deficiency.

Most multi-vitamin and multi-mineral supplements do not have phosphorus, given that, such supplementation is usually unwarranted

Phosphorus Deficiency
can result in weak bones
Phosphorus Deficiency Symptoms and the Use for Phosphorus Supplementation

Deficiency of phosphorus is usually rare; though, it may be observed in individuals who take antacids which contain aluminum for the management of heartburns or in individuals who are chronic alcoholics

A deficiency of the mineral results in demineralization of the bones, making them weak. Phosphorus plays an important role in absorbing calcium and utilizing it. In case of inadequate phosphorus in the body, the bones become weak and brittle. Likewise, the teeth become weak and fragile too. There may be discomfort in various joints of the body.

Loss of appetite and exhaustion are important deficiency symptoms as well. Tingling numbness, tremors, anxiety, weight loss and restricted growth are associated features.

 Phosphorus Uses and Phosphorus Health Benefits

  • Phosphorus has an important role to play in the maintenance of healthy bones and teeth.
  • It also participates in several vital functions of the body, such as energy metabolism, synthesis of DNA and the absorption and utilization of calcium.
  • Phosphorus plays a role in facilitating optimal digestion.
  • Phosphorus helps in the normal functioning of the kidneys and ensures proper discharge of wastes.
  • Adequate levels of phosphorous are essential to maintain normal brain functions.
  • The mineral facilitates maximum utilization of protein in the body and thus ensures proper growth as well as cellular repair. It also helps utilize carbohydrates and fats.
  • Phosphorus helps maintain a good hormonal equilibrium.

Natural Food Sources of Phosphorus
Phosphorus is easily available in most foods, especially high protein foods. Here’s a list of the foods that are packed with the mineral phosphorus:

    Beef is a great source of
    Phosphorus
  • Yogurt
  • Milk
  • Lentils
  • Salmon
  • Beef
  • Turkey
  • Almonds
  • Peanuts
  • Egg
The RDA for phosphorus is the same as that of calcium. On an average, it is 1000 milligrams for adults.

Phosphorus Supplement Side Effects

  • You may develop an allergic reaction after taking a phosphate supplement. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience the following: difficulty in breathing, swelling of the face, itching, giddiness or hives.
  • Other side effects that have been noted are: nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and constipation. Sudden weight loss is seen in some cases too.
  • Fatigue and mood swings are rare side effects that are associated with the supplement.
  • Another thing to remember is that the ratio of calcium to phosphorus is important. Imbalance in the levels of calcium and phosphorus are closely linked to osteoporosis. So, make sure you consult a health care professional before you start phosphorus supplementation. To maintain proper balance, the ratio of calcium to phosphorus should be 2:1. Foods that are loaded with phosphorus but have relatively smaller quantities of calcium are soft drinks, red meat and poultry. When phosphorus levels are too high, calcium is lost in the urine.
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Side Effects of L-Arginine Supplements: Precautions while using L Arginine Supplements

Wednesday, October 19, 2011 · Posted in , , , ,

On the whole, L-arginine supplements are well tolerated when administered intravenously, orally or topically .L- Arginine is an amino acid which plays a crucial role in ammonia detoxification, strengthening the immune system and secretion of certain hormones. Though L Arginine supplements are considered beneficial, there consumption can be associated with certain side effects and precautions are suggested while consuming these supplements

Arginine supplements
can have side effects
Side Effects of L Arginine Supplements
In some cases Arginine is known to cause diarrhea, bloating, hormonal changes, gastrointestinal derangements, hives, increased levels of blood urea nitrogen, blood creatine, and serum creatinine, increased inflammatory response, pain in the lower back, numbness, severe tissue necrosis, systemic acidosis, or venous irritation.
Arginine supplements are also known to set off anaphylaxis in some patients. Symptoms include: hives and rash, itching, breathlessness.

Precaution for using L Arginine Supplements
  • People having cardiovascular disorders, may see an increase in the WBC count, fatigue, vertigo, increased blood pressure, or increased post-heart attack deaths; after taking arginine. Arginine must be avoided in hypotensive people or those being administered blood pressure lowering drugs. Those who are at a risk for or have a history of cardiac arrest should avoid arginine, because arginine could aggravate the condition and increase the peril of death.
  • Arginine may raise the risk of bleeding. Those having bleeding disorders or those taking drugs that may increase the risk of bleeding must be very careful.
  • Arginine may alter blood glucose levels. People having diabetes or hypoglycemia must exercise extreme care when taking arginine supplements. In case you need to start supplementation, serum glucose levels should be monitored from time to time.
  • Those having impaired kidney function, those who are at a risk for hyperkalemia (i.e. abnormally high levels of blood potassium), diabetics or people who take drugs which increase potassium levels, must be extremely cautious, since, arginine causes hyperkalemia.
  • Post menopausal women must talk to their health care professional before starting the supplements, given that, flushing and night sweats have been reported.
  • Arginine worsens herpetic infection. The herpes virus makes use of arginine, therefore, a diet that is high in arginine in people who may be sheltering the virus, could trigger a reactivation. It may increase the danger of herpes simplex cold sores. 
Other Side Effects of Use of L Arginine Supplements
  • Headache is reported as a side effect of arginine; hence, must be used cautiously in those prone to headaches.
  • Individuals having immunological disorders must take added care.
  • People diagnosed with sickle cell anemia and hyperchloremic acidosis, should consult their doctor, since, arginine aggravates the symptoms.
  • High-risk pregnancy women and women having multiple medical conditions should not take arginine supplements; arginine given intravenously can trigger premature delivery, pre-eclampsia, and even death. by and large, experts advocate one to avoid arginine during pregnancy and lactation.
  • Avoid arginine with nitrates, as simultaneous usage causes extreme blood pressure-lowering.
  • Asthmatics mustn’t use arginine supplements, since; arginine could trigger an allergic response and worsen inflammation of the airways.
  • Avoid use in breast cancer. 
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Health Benefits of Aloe Vera for Skin and Hair: Aloe Vera Lotion Side Effects

Thursday, June 2, 2011 · Posted in , , , ,

Aloe Vera is widely used as an ornamental Plant. However it has been used since centuries, to mange skin ailments and to treat gastro-intestinal tract upsets and derangements, effectively and naturally. Native to the Sub Saharan Africa, it is now found in arid climates across the globe.

Aloe Vera Plant has
several benefits
What is Aloe Vera?: Pure Aloe Vera from Aloe Vera Plants

The Aloe Vera plant belongs to the lily family. It is a succulent plant having thick fleshy leaves which exudes a viscid transparent gel that exerts several beneficial effects on our body.
Pure Aloe vera gel can be easily expressed at home. Wash a fleshy, gel filled leaf of the plant. Then, slit the center of the leaf using a knife. Collect the gel in a bowl and use as required. This is the pure form of the gel.

Aloe Vera Juice Health Benefits: Uses of Aloe Vera
The health benefits of aloe Vera juice are profound. Taken internally, the juice helps your gastro-intestinal tract to function optimally. It prevents acidity, heart burn and stomach pains; treats ulcers successfully and wards off a host of abdominal derangements.
The recommended dosage is half a cup of the juice twice everyday.
The gel extracted from the leafy is packed with a host of vital agents. The gel contains anti inflammatory agents that reduce inflammation, swelling and pain quickly; thus making it useful in painful conditions such as: gastritis, stomach ulcers, piles / hemorrhoids, mouth ulcers, inflammatory conditions of the skin, etc.
Aloe Vera also contains a powerful compound that fights itchiness, thus making it very useful for allergic reactions.
Aloe Vera is a potent anti septic too and speeds up the process of healing considerably.
Common uses of aloe Vera are:
  • Topical application of the gel to treat minor burns, sun burns, abrasions, cuts, rashes, stings, ulcers and frost bites.
  • It is known to effectively clear up warts and acne
  • Taken internally, aloe Vera soothes inflamed GI tract and relives gastric complaints.

Aloe manages most
of the hair problems
Aloe Vera Hair Gel: Aloe Vera Gel For Hair

Applying aloe Vera gel to your hair and scalp has been recommended by most hair care experts. Aloe Vera nourishes the scalp, stimulates hair follicles and promotes hair growth.Scalp treatment and massaging with Aloe Vera is very beneficial.  It fights dandruff and other inflammatory conditions of the scalp effectively. When applied to the hair shaft, it makes the hair shiny and glossy, giving the hair a healthy sheen. Use the gel twice per week; massage in to the scalp and leave on for an hour. It works as a wonderful conditioner as well. Aloe vera is effective in treating hairloss problem.

Benefits of Aloe Vera on Skin: Aloe Vera Gel Benefits

Aloe for a beautiful
skin
Aloe Vera is used for diseased conditions of the skin as well as for cosmetic purposes. It is particularly helpful when applied to damaged skin. It relives pain and itching almost instantaneously. Aloe Vera speeds the process of cell regeneration, enhances blood circulation and effectually fights secondary bacterial / fungal infections. The gel manages burns, sun burns, frost bites, ulcers, warts and shingles. Another potential use of the aloe Vera is treatment of psoriasis. It soothes the skin and prevents flare ups.

Aloe Vera Capsules and Aloe Vera Lotion: Side Effects of Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is available in the form of juice, capsules, cream and gel. Aloe Vera also makes s soothing bath lotion. Add 1 cup of aloe Vera juice to a bath tub of warm water.

In rare cases, one may complain of mild allergic skin reaction. Some people may experience stomach cramps and / or diarrhea. Do not take aloe Vera if pregnant or breast feeding.
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