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ACES
(Vitamins A, C, E, & Selenium)
Vitamin
A
Traditionally,
four nutrients have been recognized for their antioxidant qualities, Vitamin
A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Selenium.
Vitamin A
nourishes the eyes as well as the skin and has been useful in some disorders
of the gastrointestinal tract. It is important in the formation of bones
and teeth, aids in fat storage and protects against colds, influenza,
and respiratory infections. It also helps to slow the aging process and
assists the body's ability to utilize protein.
Two sources
of Vitamin A are fish liver oil (pre-formed Vitamin A) and Beta Carotene,
which is pro Vitamin A. The body makes Vitamin A as needed from the pro
Vitamin A, Beta Carotene. Beta Carotene is best derived from foods that
are balanced with other Carotenoids. Although pre-formed Vitamin A can
build up in the liver and become toxic, the body will regulate the amount
produced by Beta Carotene so that it does not rise to toxic levels. (1)
1. Prescription
for Nutritional Healing by James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch,
C.N.C.
Vitamin
C
Vitamin C
is an antioxidant that is required for tissue growth and repair, adrenal
gland function, and healthy gums. It protects against the harmful effects
of pollution, prevents cancer, protects against infection, and enhances
immunity.
New evidence indicates that Vitamin C and Vitamin E work together and
have a greater effect than when they are taken separately.
When Vitamin
C (Ascorbic Acid) is combined or "chelated" with minerals it
becomes an alkaline rather than an acid substance, making it more absorbable
and less irritating to the stomach. Combining Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids
makes it considerably more efficient. (1, 2)
1. Prescription
for Nutritional Healing by James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch,
C.N.C.
2. Nutritional Influences on Illness, by Melvyn R. Werbach MD and Michael
T. Murray, ND
Vitamin
E
Vitamin E
is an antioxidant that prevents cancer and cardiovascular disease. This
supplement improves circulation, repairs tissue, and is useful in treating
fibrocystic breasts and premenstrual syndrome. It also promotes normal
clotting and healing, reduces scarring from some wounds, reduces blood
pressure, aids in preventing cataracts, improves athletic performance
and aids leg cramps. It retards aging and may prevent age spots as well.
(1)
Vitamin E
comes from both synthetic and natural sources. The synthetic form is preceded
by the initials "DL". The "L" indicates that it is
synthetic. There is more than one component that is needed to make Vitamin
E "complete." Many contain only the d-Alpha component, but the
others are necessary since they work in combination with each other. When
these are all present they are referred to as "mixed tocopherols."
Be careful
also to avoid unnecessary fillers in Vitamin E products. Many contain
added soybean oil, which may become rancid and increase the risk of disease.
1. Prescription
for Nutritional Healing by James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch,
C.N.C.
Selenium
Selenium
is a vital antioxidant, especially when combined with Vitamin E. As an
antioxidant, selenium protects the immune system by preventing the formation
of free radicals (unbalanced molecules), which can damage the body. Selenium
and Vitamin E act together to aid in the production of antibodies and
to help maintain a healthy heart. This trace element (mineral) is needed
for pancreatic function and tissue elasticity. A selenium deficiency is
linked to cancer and heart disease. (1)
Selenium
exists in both organic and inorganic forms. Many studies have shown that
the most absorbable form of organic selenium is L-Selenomethionine. It
is not only more absorbable but remains in the body longer, giving it
a greater opportunity to be utilized by the body.
Because of
the material that exists on these antioxidants combined with the fact
that they are recognized by both nutritional and medical research, Vitamins
A, C, E, and Selenium form a simple and basic foundation to anyone's nutritional
program.
1. Prescription
for Nutritional Healing by James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch,
C.N.C.
2. Sabinsa Literature.
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here now.
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To view Vitamin E products in the AskHealthyWay.com Online Store, please click here now.
To view Selenium products in the AskHealthyWay.com Online Store, please click here now.
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