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Arnold,

I did a little research and I have found arguments on both sides of the fence on

this one - I always think when in doubt ere on the side of caution. I know that

my Natural Health Practitioner - Dianne Craft has always advised me to not buy B

vitamins that have yeast as an ingredient. Others say you should avoid fermented

foods, vinegars, and brewers yeast if recurrent yeast overgrowth has been noted.

I just think there are other natural food forms of this vitamin that are equally

packed with nutrition and yet don't have the risk involved.

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What are they?

Lori M.

>From: " Mike Mchugh " <mcpitza@...>

>Reply-

>< >

>Subject: Re: [ ] Brewers Yeast and yeast infection

>Date: Mon, 8 Nov 2004 22:34:46 -0500

>

>Arnold,

>I did a little research and I have found arguments on both sides of the

>fence on this one - I always think when in doubt ere on the side of

>caution. I know that my Natural Health Practitioner - Dianne Craft has

>always advised me to not buy B vitamins that have yeast as an ingredient.

>Others say you should avoid fermented foods, vinegars, and brewers yeast if

>recurrent yeast overgrowth has been noted. I just think there are other

>natural food forms of this vitamin that are equally packed with nutrition

>and yet don't have the risk involved.

>

>

>

>

>

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Share on other sites

I hope this article helps - it mentions food sources for all B vitamins:

Vitamin B Deficiencies

by Railey

is the author of the popular eBook, How to Improve Fading Memory and

Thinking Skills with Nutrition.

The B complex is an extremely important group of nutrients that the body must

acquire through the diet or produce via the intestinal flora to enable it to

transform food into energy, maintain a strong immune system, balance many of the

body's hormones, and perform a wide variety of other tasks.

The B vitamins work together as a complex and are dependent upon each other to

perform their individual tasks in the body. The insufficient intake of one B

vitamin can create imbalances and deficiencies in others and impair the body's

ability to assimilate and metabolize them. If a depletion or excess of one over

the other occurs for a period of any duration, there will be a problem in the

entire complex. Because of this relationship between the B vitamins, an isolated

deficiency of only one B vitamin is rarely seen. This is another good reason for

taking the B vitamins as a complex, a whole, and not separately.

It is important to note that while the B vitamins must always be taken as a

complex, in cases where there is a condition or problem caused by the deficiency

of a particular B vitamin, the single B vitamin may be taken in a therapeutic

dosage for a short time. However, the B complex must be taken as well.

Crayhon of Designs for Health advises that the therapeutic dose of the single B

vitamin should be taken at a different time during the day than the B complex to

realize maximum benefit.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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Using a whole food, B complex in which all enzymes, nutrients, and co-factors

are intact, is the best way to supplement long term. This will build

nutritionally. If it is necessary, a separate supplement of a particular

synthetic vitamin may be taken for a time to aid in improving a particular

condition or deficiency. This is something that generally should not be done for

long periods of time due to the fact that with overuse, the synthetic vitamins

may cause problems such as nutrient depletion and toxicity.

Another disadvantage is that they can never build nutritionally. The effect

synthetic vitamins will have is pharmaceutical not nutritional. (See Three B

Complex article on this site). The pharmaceutical effect is not always a bad

thing and may be beneficial in some cases, as we will see. Synthetic vitamins

should not be the main source of supplementation, however. Our bodies were made

to recognize and use vitamins and minerals as they exist in food, not chemical

versions of them.

Let's look at some of the things that may contribute to vitamin B deficiencies.

Consumption of sugar, white flour products, processed foods (lack nutrients and

may contain many additives), conventionally grown produce (lack nutrients and

are contaminated with toxins such as pesticides), alcohol, stress, environmental

pollution, inadequate digestion, malnutrition, illness, and a vegetarian or

vegan diet can all contribute.

Due to the fact that a good percentage of the U.S. population consumes

vitamin-deficient foods along with a combination of one or more of the

aforementioned problems, vitamin B deficiencies have become commonplace.

Judith DeCava, Ph.D, in the article " Vitamin B Complex in Human Nutrition, "

lists many possible symptoms of a B complex deficiency:

a.. mild to severe depression

b.. forgetfulness

c.. vague fears

d.. uneasiness to panic

e.. mood swings

f.. rage

g.. morbid thoughts

h.. hostility

i.. restlessness

j.. apprehension

k.. constant feeling that something dreadful is going to happen

l.. suspicions

m.. instability

n.. anxiety

o.. mental confusion

p.. noise sensitivity

q.. inability to handle stress

r.. hearing noises, voices, etc.

s.. loss of ability to concentrate

t.. impaired intellect

u.. loss of memory

v.. nervousness

w.. weakness

x.. fatigue

y.. lightheadedness or dizziness

z.. digestive problems

aa.. hypochlorhydria (insufficient stomach acid production)

ab.. constipation or diarrhea

ac.. stomach pains

ad.. decreased or increased appetite

ae.. craving for sweets

af.. heart palpitations

ag.. chest pains

ah.. neuralgia to neuritis

ai.. muscular soreness

aj.. pain, tingling or achiness

ak.. cold hands and feet

al.. heightened sensitivity to touch and/or pain

am.. menstrual complaints

an.. soreness of the mouth

ao.. dermatitis

ap.. acne

aq.. burning or itching eyes

ar.. difficulty swallowing

as.. sore throat

at.. hypochondria

au.. headaches

av.. insomnia or sleep disturbances.

According to Dr. Murray, " A classical symptom of B complex deficiency,

which has reached cronicity, is a constant feeling that something dreadful is

about to happen. However, the first and most common complaint, especially among

women, is depression and the tendency to cry without any particular reason. "

The consumption of B vitamins particularly B-12, B-6, folic acid, biotin and

niacin may reverse memory problems. Research conducted at Tufts suggests that

blood levels of various B vitamins that fall at the lower end of the " normal "

range can interfere with mental dexterity. A severe deficiency does not have to

be present for memory impairment to occur.

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Studies comparing the mental capacity of individuals taking B vitamin

supplements to those receiving placebos demonstrated significant improvements in

memory. Specifically, they were given 10 times the RDA of the B vitamins

mentioned above for a period of one year.

A vitamin B complex deficiency puts a tremendous level of stress on the adrenal

glands and often those deficient in the B's will also need adrenal support.

Lying down and resting for five minutes, taking your blood pressure, then

standing immediately and taking the blood pressure again can assess low adrenal

function. The higher number of the blood pressure measurement should read at

least ten points greater upon standing, than it was when lying down. If your

blood pressure is not 10 points greater or if it goes down when you stand up,

reduced adrenal function is suspect. The degree of hypoadrenalism is often

proportionate to the degree the blood pressure drops (Balch, 1997: 91, 92).

Let's look at the B vitamins separately to determine what each one does in the

body and what the individual deficiency symptoms look like.

B-1 (thiamin) is a powerful antioxidant that is necessary for regulating and

normalizing the conversion of glucose into energy. It provides the neurons

(nerve cells) with important building blocks needed for energy production and

increases blood flow in memory tissue. B-1 is important for detoxification,

heart function, muscle tone of the intestines, stomach, and heart, and the

overall health of the nervous system.

The body requires higher amounts of B-1 when increased calories are consumed,

particularly starches and sugars.

Deficiency Symptoms

In the most severe form, B-1 deficiency results in beriberi. This is relatively

uncommon except in alcoholics. A less severe deficiency can result in symptoms

ranging from fatigue, depression, constipation, edema, enlarged liver,

forgetfulness, gastrointestinal disturbances, loss of appetite, and atrophy of

muscle tissue, to numbness of the legs, or tingling sensations. It is

interesting to note that 30% of those entering psychiatric wards are deficient

in thiamin (Murray, 1996: 83).

Food Sources

The richest food sources of B-1 are brewer's or nutritional yeast, brown rice,

egg yolks, fish, legumes, liver, nuts, peas, poultry, rice bran, dulse, kelp,

spirulina, wheat germ and whole grains. A high carbohydrate diet will increase

the need for thiamin and the use of antibiotics, sulfa drugs, and oral

contraceptives may decrease the body's thiamin level.

Dosage Range

Generally a daily dosage of 50 to 100 milligrams is adequate. For those

suffering from age related mental decline or Alzheimer's disease, the

therapeutic dose is 3-8 grams daily (with the whole B complex being taken at

some other point during the day). Chet's Comments

Railey, the author of this piece on B vitamins, writes some of the

best and most detailed articles and eBooks in the Natural Health Movement. If

you like this article, click here to learn about 's

How to Improve Fading Memory

and Declining Thinking Skills with Nutrition

In fact, synthetic isolates will draw the accessory nutrients needed to

Note: if you take true whole food vitamins the dosage ranges will not apply. I

have included the dosage ranges for all the B vitamins, as a guide, for those

that want or need to take synthetic supplements, particularly in therapeutic

doses.

Contraindications

Excessive B-1 can deplete other B vitamins and disrupt insulin and thyroid

production.

B-2 (riboflavin) is needed for energy production, anti-body production, the

production of red blood cells, healthy eyes and skin, and growth. It aids in the

metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, and is important in the

prevention and treatment of cataracts. B-2 regenerates glutathione, a powerful

antioxidant that is one of the main protectors of the body's cells against

free-radical damage.

Deficiency Symptoms

Indications of a riboflavin deficiency include cracking of the lips and corners

of the mouth, an inflamed tongue, loss of visual perception and sensitivity to

light, cataracts, and burning and/or itching of the eyes, lips, mouth, and

tongue. Other possible symptoms include dizziness, hair loss, insomnia, poor

digestion, and slowed mental response.

Though severe deficiencies of riboflavin are not prevalent, moderate

deficiencies are found quite often and are most common among the elderly

population. Low dietary levels of riboflavin have been linked to certain

esophageal cancers (Murray, 1996:85).

Food Sources

The foods providing the highest levels of B-2 are brewer's or nutritional yeast,

almonds, wheat germ, wild rice, egg yolks, legumes, liver, fish, and poultry.

Dosage Range

5 to 10 milligrams daily is sufficient for general health.

Vitamin B-3 is important to the proper functioning of the nervous system and

aids in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. It also plays a role

in the production of hydrochloric acid and is involved in the normal secretion

of bile and digestive fluids.

B-3 is available in two forms, niacin and niacinamide. The body's need for B-3

is satisfied by either form, but in doses larger than those obtained from food,

they have very different effects in the body.

Niacin lowers LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, increases beneficial HDL

cholesterol, increases circulation, improves brain function by enhancing the

oxygen carrying ability of the red blood cells, regulates blood flow in memory

tissue, and has the ability to mobilize fat from cells into the blood. Niacin

also strengthens GABA, which is a calming neurotransmitter.

Niacin can cause a somewhat irritating but harmless flushing when first taking a

dose of 50 milligrams or more. A no-flush variety, inositol hexanicotinate is

the only form of time release niacin that is recommended; other forms of

time-release niacin are a liver irritant and should not be consumed.

Niacinamide does not cause flushing, will not lower cholesterol or improve

circulation, but has other benefits. It has been used since the 1940's to reduce

insulin requirements of diabetics and has been found to be very effective in the

treatment of osteoarthritis.

Deficiency Symptoms

A severe deficiency of B-3 and the amino acid tryptophan will result in

Pellagra, which manifests itself in marked dermatitis, dementia, and diarrhea. A

moderate deficiency can cause these symptoms to a lesser degree.

Food Sources

Niacin is found in brewer's or nutritional yeast, liver, broccoli, carrots,

cheese, eggs, fish, raw milk, peanuts, potatoes, tomatoes, dandelion greens, and

wheat germ.

Dosage Range

If using pure crystalline niacin, start with a dose of 100 milligrams three

times a day and carefully increase the dosage over a period of 4 to 6 weeks to

the full therapeutic dose of 1.5 to 3 grams daily in divided doses. If you are

using inositol hexaniacinate, begin with 500 milligrams three times daily for 2

weeks and then increase to 1,000 milligrams. It is best to take either

crystalline niacin or inositol hexaniacinate with meals (Murray, 1996: 96).

Contraindications

Those suffering from diabetes, glaucoma, gout, liver disease, or peptic ulcers

should use niacin supplements cautiously. Consuming over 500 mg per day for an

extended length of time may result in liver damage.

Vitamin B-5 (pantothenic acid): Every cell in the body including brain cells

requires vitamin B-5. It plays and important part in synthesizing the adrenal

hormones (important for those under stress), assists in forming antibodies,

enhances the utilization of other vitamins, and promotes the conversion of

choline to acetylcholine, an essential brain neurotransmitter. It is also

essential for the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, glucose

metabolism, optimal energy levels, and for wound healing.

Therapeutic levels of pantothenic acid are used to support adrenal and joint

function and another form, pantethine, is used as an aid in lowering blood

cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Deficiency Symptoms

Many foods contain pantothenic acid, therefore a deficiency of this nutrient is

rare. The Greek word " Panthos, " from which its name is derived means

" everywhere. " The first sign of B-5 deficiency is generally fatigue and

listlessness, and in severe deficiency, the " burning foot syndrome " is the main

characteristic. This would include symptoms such as numbness and shooting pains.

Food Sources

Most fresh vegetables are good sources for B-5. Brewer's and nutritional yeast,

liver, eggs, mushrooms, avocados, broccoli, whole grains, bran, peanuts,

cashews, legumes, and soybeans are especially high in B-5.

Dosage Range

For general supplementation 4 to 7 milligrams daily is adequate. For use in

adrenal support the therapeutic dose would be 250 milligrams twice daily. 2

grams daily is the therapeutic dose for rheumatoid arthritis. The dosage of

pantethine taken for the purpose of lowering cholesterol and triglycerides is

300 milligrams, three times daily.

Vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine) is involved in a myriad of bodily functions; more than

almost any other single nutrient. It is needed for the production of the

neurotransmitters norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine, which are all

necessary for optimal brain function. B-6 also influences endocrine function in

the brain. Pyridoxine plays and important role in the growth of red blood cells,

the health of skin and mucous membranes, effective immune function, and it is

required for the proper functioning of more than 60 different enzymes.

B-6 has been used for prevention and treatment of a large range of degenerative

diseases including cancer and arteriosclerosis. It can be taken therapeutically

for conditions such as PMS, bloating, carpal tunnel syndrome, depression,

epilepsy, kidney stones, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, autism, immune

enhancement, MSG sensitivity (those who are sensitive to MSG are often deficient

in B-6), and in diabetes for the prevention of diabetic complications.

30 - 40% of the population may have problems converting B-6 into P5P

(pyridoxyl-5-phosphate), its main active form in the body. Those who are

afflicted with illnesses may be unable to activate B-6. For these people the

activated form of B-6 (P5P) should be taken.

Diets high in protein will increase the body's requirements for B-6, as does the

consumption of alcohol and oral contraceptives.

Deficiency Symptoms

Depression, convulsion, glucose intolerance, anemia, impaired nerve function,

cracked lips and tongue, headaches, hair loss, seborrhea and eczema are all

characteristic of a B-6 deficiency.

Food Sources

Most foods contain some B-6 but those that are the best sources include brewers

or nutritional yeast, sunflower seeds, wheat germ, walnuts, carrots, legumes,

soybeans, chicken, eggs, fish, organ meats, spinach, blackstrap molasses, and

whole grains.

Dosage Range

For general supplementation 50 to 100 milligrams of B-6 is sufficient.

Contraindications

Excess B-6 can deplete other B vitamins, so always take it in balanced amounts

No more than 2,000 milligrams of B-6 should be taken per day as it can result in

symptoms of nerve toxicity. Therapeutic dosages should not be used long-term

unless they are under a total of 500 milligrams daily. If taking doses larger

than 50 milligrams for therapeutic benefit, the doses should be divided into

50-milligram doses, which can be taken during the course of the day. This is

important because the liver is unable to handle more than a 50-milligram dose at

a time.

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Vitamin B-12 (cyanocobalamin) stimulates RNA synthesis in nerve cells,

strengthens neurotransmitters, and increases concentration. It is necessary for

myelin formation and also aids in protecting arteries in the brain by

metabolizing homocysteine. B-12 is and essential nutrient for nervous system

health and production of red blood cells and plays a critical role in healthy

digestive function.

Absorption of vitamin B-12 is dependent on HCL (hydrochloric acid) in the

stomach and the bonding to a substance called intrinsic factor within the small

intestine. Intrinsic factor is secreted by the parietal cells of the stomach.

These cells are also responsible for the secretion of HCL. The insufficiency or

lack of intrinsic factor has been found more commonly among those of

Scandinavian, English, and Irish descent.

The Schilling test is used to determine if insufficient intrinsic factor is an

issue. The test involves taking a radioactive form of vitamins B-12 then

measuring the level excreted in the urine. Impaired absorption due to a lack of

intrinsic factor is indicated by a below normal urinary excretion of the

vitamin.

It may takes years to develop a B-12 deficiency and the resulting neurological

effects will be noticed before it can be detected by the usual blood tests.

Testing urine levels of methylmelonic acid is the best way of assessing a B-12

deficiency and will detect it before the blood levels of B-12 will record

outside the normal range. A B-12 deficiency causes slowly progressing and

irreversible nerve damage. New evidence suggests that B-12 can be deficient even

though pernicious anemia is not present. Even in cases where the blood does not

indicate it, B-12 may be dangerously deficient and can contribute to such

problems as mental deterioration, confusion, depression, and other cognitive

problems.

Unlike other water-soluble B-vitamins, B-12 is stored in the liver, kidney, and

other body tissues. As a result, signs and symptoms may not manifest themselves

until after 5-6 years of poor dietary intake or inadequate intrinsic factor. A

B-12 deficiency will effect the brain and nervous system long before pernicious

anemia becomes apparent.

Therapeutic levels of vitamin B-12 are used in diseases and conditions such as

AIDS, Alzheimer's disease, senility, compromised cognitive function, asthma,

sulfite sensitivity, depression, diabetic neuropathy, multiple sclerosis,

tinnitus, and low sperm count.

Deficiency Symptoms

Deficiencies have been associated with some forms of dementia. The symptoms

associated with a B-12 deficiency are fatigue, headaches, shortness of breath,

sore, beefy red, swollen tongue, digestive disorders, heart and nervous system

disturbances such as numbness and tingling of the arms or legs, depression,

mental confusion, and memory deficits. B-12 deficiency can mimic Alzheimer's

disease. B-12 is often deficient in vegans because the predominant source of

B-12 is animal products. It is also prevalent among the elderly population.

A B-12 deficiency is indicative of intestinal dysbiosis or the overgrowth of

toxic bacteria and a disturbance in the balance of beneficial bacteria in the

intestinal tract. Dysbiosis in turn will result in leaky gut if left untreated.

Leaky gut allows large protein particles, undigested food particles, and toxins

to permeate the intestinal walls and find their way into the blood stream where

they cause all kinds of problems. This is the starting point of many diseases.

Dysbiosis requires supplementation with the B complex, vitamin B-12, digestive

enzymes, and probiotics such as acidophilus and bifido bacterium. Zinc and

glutamine are helpful in healing leaky gut. It is beneficial to use all of these

supplements together to address the entire digestive tract. It is also important

to keep the diet free of sugar and processed foods.

Food Sources

The largest amounts of B-12 are found in nutritional yeast, liver, clams, eggs,

meats, fish, and dairy products. Some B-12 is available from sea vegetables such

as dulse, kelp, kombu, and nori.

Recommended Dosage

For vegetarians, 100 micrograms of B-12 daily is recommended. Methylcobalamin,

the active form of vitamin B-12, in sublingual tablets is the preferred form of

synthetic B-12. The amounts recommended in deficiency states are 2,000

micrograms daily for 1 month, followed by 1,000 micrograms daily for 3 to 6

months or until the methylmelonic acid levels in the urine are normal.

NOTE: Those with impaired digestive processes or over or under active thyroid

may have problems with B-12 absorption. Because of this, or if there is a

serious B-12 deficiency, a separate B-12 supplement may be taken in addition to

the B complex until the digestive processes and/or thyroid are normalized or the

deficiency dealt with. This should be taken at a different time during the day

than the B complex. For these people, it may be advisable to take the active

form of B-12 (methylcobalamin) in a sublingual form. Vitamin B-12 injections are

another possibility, though research has shown that this is no more efficacious

than oral administration of B-12.

Biotin aids in the utilization of other B vitamins, the metabolism of

carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, fatty acid production, and cell growth. It

promotes healthy skin and hair, nerve tissue, and bone marrow, and helps in

relieving muscle pain.

Deficiency Symptoms

Deficiency of biotin is rare because it is produced in the intestines from foods

that contain the vitamin. If a deficiency does occur it can cause a wide range

of symptoms including anemia, depression, hair loss, hyperglycemia, inflammation

of the skin and mucous membranes, insomnia, loss of appetite, muscular pain, and

nausea. Obviously, those consuming minimal amounts of biotin containing foods

will have greater risk of developing a deficiency.

Food Sources

Good sources for biotin are nutritional yeast, soybeans, whole grains, egg

yolks, milk, meat, poultry, and saltwater fish.

Antibiotics, sulfa drugs, and saccharin reduce the bioavailability of biotin as

do rancid or oxidized fats and oils. A protein called avidin that is present in

egg whites, binds with biotin in the digestive tract and can deplete the body of

this important nutrient.

Choline is a B vitamin that is the precursor of the neurotransmitter

acetylcholine and is essential for optimal memory function. Choline is easily

absorbed through the blood brain barrier, helps control harmful levels of

homocysteine, and protects and nourishes other chemicals that support memory.

Choline, along with B-12, is necessary for myelin formation.

Choline also plays a role in gall bladder regulation, liver function, and

lecithin formation, and aids in hormone production and in fat and cholesterol

metabolism.

Food Sources

Choline is a major ingredient in lecithin and lecithin makes up about 30% of the

dry weight of the brain. Lecithin provides other important nutrients including

phospholipids, fats, and glycolipids. Choline is also found in egg yolks, green

leafy vegetables, liver, soybeans, yeast, and wheat germ. The best supplemental

source is phosphatidyl choline.

Deficiency Symptoms

Impaired brain function and memory, cardiac symptoms, gastric ulcers, high blood

pressure, inability to digest fats, kidney and liver impairment, and stunted

growth are all possible results of a choline deficiency.

Recommended Dosage

500 - 1,000 milligrams per day for those aged 65 and under. Those over 65 may

need from 1 - 5 grams per day.

Folate (folic acid) is a nutrient that is often deficient because it is so

fragile. Though folic acid is present in many foods, its content in food is

greatly diminished by cooking and is progressively lower the longer food is

stored after picking. Because of this folic acid deficiencies are extremely

common.

Folic acid stores in the body are sufficient to sustain the body for only one to

two months. Alcohol consumption impairs folic acid absorption, disrupts folic

acid metabolism, and causes the body to excrete folic acid. Deficiency is common

among pregnant women. Drugs such as anti-cancer drugs, drugs for epilepsy, and

oral contraceptives also deplete folic acid. Folic acid deficiency will result

in diarrhea and malabsorption and the same type of anemia caused by B-12

deficiency.

B-12 must always accompany folic acid supplementation to prevent the folic acid

supplement from masking a vitamin B-12 deficiency. Folic acid will correct

anemia associated with the B-12 deficiency but will not remedy the problems that

the B-12 deficiency causes in the nervous system and brain. Folic acid is

extremely important for proper fetal development and prevention of heart

disease.

Folic acid works synergistically with vitamin B-12 in many of the body's

processes. It is critical for proper cell division and healthy nerve tissue. A

folic acid deficiency effects all cells in the body, but the rapidly dividing

cells such as red blood cells and cells of the GI tract are most notably

affected. Some of the symptoms caused by a folic acid deficiency are anemia,

depression, insomnia, irritability, forgetfulness, loss of appetite, and

fatigue.

Folic acid is available as folinic acid (5-methyl-tetra-hydrofolate).

Supplementing with this form is more effective in raising levels of folic acid

in the body because it relieves the body of the job of converting the folic acid

into folinic acid.

Food Sources

All dark leafy greens (the foliage that folic acid is named after) are good food

sources of folic acid. These include kale, spinach, beet greens, and chard.

Other sources are nutritional yeast, rice germ, wheat germ, blackeye peas, beans

and lentils, asparagus, liver, soybeans, wheat bran, and walnuts.

Recommended Dosage

400 - 800 micrograms daily with meals.

Contraindications

High doses of folic acid (5-10 milligrams) may cause gas, poor appetite, and

stomach upset. Those with epilepsy should avoid folic acid in high doses,

because it may result in increased occurrence of seizures.

If taking pancreatic enzymes, which may reduce folic acid absorption, take the

two supplements four to six hours apart.

Inositol is essential for hair growth, helps prevent hardening of the arteries,

and is important in the formation of lecithin and the metabolism of fat and

cholesterol.

Inositol has a calming effect and has been shown to be very effective in cases

where depression is an issue. Researchers at Ben Gurion University in Israel

demonstrated that supplementing with inositol successfully reduced depression in

patients who were unresponsive to antidepressants. Inositol is not only

effective, but also safe and non-toxic.

Deficiency Symptoms

A deficiency in inositol can result in arteriosclerosis, constipation, hair

loss, high blood cholesterol, irritability, mood swings, and skin eruptions.

Food sources

Whole grains, nutritional yeast, lecithin, citrus fruits, nuts, seeds, legumes,

unrefined molasses, meats, and dairy.

Recommended Dose

6 - 12 grams daily, in divided doses.

As we have seen, the B complex vitamins are of extreme importance to our health

and well being and they work together as a team. Deficiencies can imbalance the

whole B complex and deficiencies such as B-12 can cause severe and permanent

damage to the body. It is important that we take steps to supply this important

complex of vitamins to our bodies, first through our diets and secondly through

proper supplementation.

Chet's Comments

Railey, the author of the article you just read, writes some of the

best and most detailed articles and eBooks in the Natural Health Movement. If

you liked the article of 's you just read, click here to learn about her:

How to Improve Fading Memory

and Declining Thinking Skills with Nutrition

References

Balch, F., M.D. and Phyllis A., C.N.C., Prescription for Nutritional

Healing Avery Publishing Group, Garden City Park, N.Y., 1997

Crayhon, , M.S., Nutrition Made Simple Mt. and Company, Inc., New

York, 1994

DeCava, Judith, The Real Truth About Vitamins and Antioxidants

Murray, , N.D., Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements Prima Health,

Rocklin, CA, 1996

Murray, , N.D., and Pizzorno, ph, N.D., Encyclopedia of Natural

Medicine Prima Publishing, Rocklin, CA, 1998

Pizzorno, ph, N.D., Total Wellness Prima Health, Rocklin, CA, 1998

Re: [ ] Brewers Yeast and yeast infection

>Date: Mon, 8 Nov 2004 22:34:46 -0500

>

>Arnold,

>I did a little research and I have found arguments on both sides of the

>fence on this one - I always think when in doubt ere on the side of

>caution. I know that my Natural Health Practitioner - Dianne Craft has

>always advised me to not buy B vitamins that have yeast as an ingredient.

>Others say you should avoid fermented foods, vinegars, and brewers yeast if

>recurrent yeast overgrowth has been noted. I just think there are other

>natural food forms of this vitamin that are equally packed with nutrition

>and yet don't have the risk involved.

>

>

>

>

>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Mike,

Thank you, that's great information!

Grace

Mike Mchugh <mcpitza@...> wrote:

I hope this article helps - it mentions food sources for all B vitamins:

Vitamin B Deficiencies

by Railey

is the author of the popular eBook, How to Improve Fading Memory and

Thinking Skills with Nutrition.

The B complex is an extremely important group of nutrients that the body must

acquire through the diet or produce via the intestinal flora to enable it to

transform food into energy, maintain a strong immune system, balance many of the

body's hormones, and perform a wide variety of other tasks.

The B vitamins work together as a complex and are dependent upon each other to

perform their individual tasks in the body. The insufficient intake of one B

vitamin can create imbalances and deficiencies in others and impair the body's

ability to assimilate and metabolize them. If a depletion or excess of one over

the other occurs for a period of any duration, there will be a problem in the

entire complex. Because of this relationship between the B vitamins, an isolated

deficiency of only one B vitamin is rarely seen. This is another good reason for

taking the B vitamins as a complex, a whole, and not separately.

It is important to note that while the B vitamins must always be taken as a

complex, in cases where there is a condition or problem caused by the deficiency

of a particular B vitamin, the single B vitamin may be taken in a therapeutic

dosage for a short time. However, the B complex must be taken as well.

Crayhon of Designs for Health advises that the therapeutic dose of the single B

vitamin should be taken at a different time during the day than the B complex to

realize maximum benefit.

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Using a whole food, B complex in which all enzymes, nutrients, and co-factors

are intact, is the best way to supplement long term. This will build

nutritionally. If it is necessary, a separate supplement of a particular

synthetic vitamin may be taken for a time to aid in improving a particular

condition or deficiency. This is something that generally should not be done for

long periods of time due to the fact that with overuse, the synthetic vitamins

may cause problems such as nutrient depletion and toxicity.

Another disadvantage is that they can never build nutritionally. The effect

synthetic vitamins will have is pharmaceutical not nutritional. (See Three B

Complex article on this site). The pharmaceutical effect is not always a bad

thing and may be beneficial in some cases, as we will see. Synthetic vitamins

should not be the main source of supplementation, however. Our bodies were made

to recognize and use vitamins and minerals as they exist in food, not chemical

versions of them.

Let's look at some of the things that may contribute to vitamin B deficiencies.

Consumption of sugar, white flour products, processed foods (lack nutrients and

may contain many additives), conventionally grown produce (lack nutrients and

are contaminated with toxins such as pesticides), alcohol, stress, environmental

pollution, inadequate digestion, malnutrition, illness, and a vegetarian or

vegan diet can all contribute.

Due to the fact that a good percentage of the U.S. population consumes

vitamin-deficient foods along with a combination of one or more of the

aforementioned problems, vitamin B deficiencies have become commonplace.

Judith DeCava, Ph.D, in the article " Vitamin B Complex in Human Nutrition, "

lists many possible symptoms of a B complex deficiency:

a.. mild to severe depression

b.. forgetfulness

c.. vague fears

d.. uneasiness to panic

e.. mood swings

f.. rage

g.. morbid thoughts

h.. hostility

i.. restlessness

j.. apprehension

k.. constant feeling that something dreadful is going to happen

l.. suspicions

m.. instability

n.. anxiety

o.. mental confusion

p.. noise sensitivity

q.. inability to handle stress

r.. hearing noises, voices, etc.

s.. loss of ability to concentrate

t.. impaired intellect

u.. loss of memory

v.. nervousness

w.. weakness

x.. fatigue

y.. lightheadedness or dizziness

z.. digestive problems

aa.. hypochlorhydria (insufficient stomach acid production)

ab.. constipation or diarrhea

ac.. stomach pains

ad.. decreased or increased appetite

ae.. craving for sweets

af.. heart palpitations

ag.. chest pains

ah.. neuralgia to neuritis

ai.. muscular soreness

aj.. pain, tingling or achiness

ak.. cold hands and feet

al.. heightened sensitivity to touch and/or pain

am.. menstrual complaints

an.. soreness of the mouth

ao.. dermatitis

ap.. acne

aq.. burning or itching eyes

ar.. difficulty swallowing

as.. sore throat

at.. hypochondria

au.. headaches

av.. insomnia or sleep disturbances.

According to Dr. Murray, " A classical symptom of B complex deficiency,

which has reached cronicity, is a constant feeling that something dreadful is

about to happen. However, the first and most common complaint, especially among

women, is depression and the tendency to cry without any particular reason. "

The consumption of B vitamins particularly B-12, B-6, folic acid, biotin and

niacin may reverse memory problems. Research conducted at Tufts suggests that

blood levels of various B vitamins that fall at the lower end of the " normal "

range can interfere with mental dexterity. A severe deficiency does not have to

be present for memory impairment to occur.

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Studies comparing the mental capacity of individuals taking B vitamin

supplements to those receiving placebos demonstrated significant improvements in

memory. Specifically, they were given 10 times the RDA of the B vitamins

mentioned above for a period of one year.

A vitamin B complex deficiency puts a tremendous level of stress on the adrenal

glands and often those deficient in the B's will also need adrenal support.

Lying down and resting for five minutes, taking your blood pressure, then

standing immediately and taking the blood pressure again can assess low adrenal

function. The higher number of the blood pressure measurement should read at

least ten points greater upon standing, than it was when lying down. If your

blood pressure is not 10 points greater or if it goes down when you stand up,

reduced adrenal function is suspect. The degree of hypoadrenalism is often

proportionate to the degree the blood pressure drops (Balch, 1997: 91, 92).

Let's look at the B vitamins separately to determine what each one does in the

body and what the individual deficiency symptoms look like.

B-1 (thiamin) is a powerful antioxidant that is necessary for regulating and

normalizing the conversion of glucose into energy. It provides the neurons

(nerve cells) with important building blocks needed for energy production and

increases blood flow in memory tissue. B-1 is important for detoxification,

heart function, muscle tone of the intestines, stomach, and heart, and the

overall health of the nervous system.

The body requires higher amounts of B-1 when increased calories are consumed,

particularly starches and sugars.

Deficiency Symptoms

In the most severe form, B-1 deficiency results in beriberi. This is relatively

uncommon except in alcoholics. A less severe deficiency can result in symptoms

ranging from fatigue, depression, constipation, edema, enlarged liver,

forgetfulness, gastrointestinal disturbances, loss of appetite, and atrophy of

muscle tissue, to numbness of the legs, or tingling sensations. It is

interesting to note that 30% of those entering psychiatric wards are deficient

in thiamin (Murray, 1996: 83).

Food Sources

The richest food sources of B-1 are brewer's or nutritional yeast, brown rice,

egg yolks, fish, legumes, liver, nuts, peas, poultry, rice bran, dulse, kelp,

spirulina, wheat germ and whole grains. A high carbohydrate diet will increase

the need for thiamin and the use of antibiotics, sulfa drugs, and oral

contraceptives may decrease the body's thiamin level.

Dosage Range

Generally a daily dosage of 50 to 100 milligrams is adequate. For those

suffering from age related mental decline or Alzheimer's disease, the

therapeutic dose is 3-8 grams daily (with the whole B complex being taken at

some other point during the day). Chet's Comments

Railey, the author of this piece on B vitamins, writes some of the

best and most detailed articles and eBooks in the Natural Health Movement. If

you like this article, click here to learn about 's

How to Improve Fading Memory

and Declining Thinking Skills with Nutrition

In fact, synthetic isolates will draw the accessory nutrients needed to

Note: if you take true whole food vitamins the dosage ranges will not apply. I

have included the dosage ranges for all the B vitamins, as a guide, for those

that want or need to take synthetic supplements, particularly in therapeutic

doses.

Contraindications

Excessive B-1 can deplete other B vitamins and disrupt insulin and thyroid

production.

B-2 (riboflavin) is needed for energy production, anti-body production, the

production of red blood cells, healthy eyes and skin, and growth. It aids in the

metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, and is important in the

prevention and treatment of cataracts. B-2 regenerates glutathione, a powerful

antioxidant that is one of the main protectors of the body's cells against

free-radical damage.

Deficiency Symptoms

Indications of a riboflavin deficiency include cracking of the lips and corners

of the mouth, an inflamed tongue, loss of visual perception and sensitivity to

light, cataracts, and burning and/or itching of the eyes, lips, mouth, and

tongue. Other possible symptoms include dizziness, hair loss, insomnia, poor

digestion, and slowed mental response.

Though severe deficiencies of riboflavin are not prevalent, moderate

deficiencies are found quite often and are most common among the elderly

population. Low dietary levels of riboflavin have been linked to certain

esophageal cancers (Murray, 1996:85).

Food Sources

The foods providing the highest levels of B-2 are brewer's or nutritional yeast,

almonds, wheat germ, wild rice, egg yolks, legumes, liver, fish, and poultry.

Dosage Range

5 to 10 milligrams daily is sufficient for general health.

Vitamin B-3 is important to the proper functioning of the nervous system and

aids in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. It also plays a role

in the production of hydrochloric acid and is involved in the normal secretion

of bile and digestive fluids.

B-3 is available in two forms, niacin and niacinamide. The body's need for B-3

is satisfied by either form, but in doses larger than those obtained from food,

they have very different effects in the body.

Niacin lowers LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, increases beneficial HDL

cholesterol, increases circulation, improves brain function by enhancing the

oxygen carrying ability of the red blood cells, regulates blood flow in memory

tissue, and has the ability to mobilize fat from cells into the blood. Niacin

also strengthens GABA, which is a calming neurotransmitter.

Niacin can cause a somewhat irritating but harmless flushing when first taking a

dose of 50 milligrams or more. A no-flush variety, inositol hexanicotinate is

the only form of time release niacin that is recommended; other forms of

time-release niacin are a liver irritant and should not be consumed.

Niacinamide does not cause flushing, will not lower cholesterol or improve

circulation, but has other benefits. It has been used since the 1940's to reduce

insulin requirements of diabetics and has been found to be very effective in the

treatment of osteoarthritis.

Deficiency Symptoms

A severe deficiency of B-3 and the amino acid tryptophan will result in

Pellagra, which manifests itself in marked dermatitis, dementia, and diarrhea. A

moderate deficiency can cause these symptoms to a lesser degree.

Food Sources

Niacin is found in brewer's or nutritional yeast, liver, broccoli, carrots,

cheese, eggs, fish, raw milk, peanuts, potatoes, tomatoes, dandelion greens, and

wheat germ.

Dosage Range

If using pure crystalline niacin, start with a dose of 100 milligrams three

times a day and carefully increase the dosage over a period of 4 to 6 weeks to

the full therapeutic dose of 1.5 to 3 grams daily in divided doses. If you are

using inositol hexaniacinate, begin with 500 milligrams three times daily for 2

weeks and then increase to 1,000 milligrams. It is best to take either

crystalline niacin or inositol hexaniacinate with meals (Murray, 1996: 96).

Contraindications

Those suffering from diabetes, glaucoma, gout, liver disease, or peptic ulcers

should use niacin supplements cautiously. Consuming over 500 mg per day for an

extended length of time may result in liver damage.

Vitamin B-5 (pantothenic acid): Every cell in the body including brain cells

requires vitamin B-5. It plays and important part in synthesizing the adrenal

hormones (important for those under stress), assists in forming antibodies,

enhances the utilization of other vitamins, and promotes the conversion of

choline to acetylcholine, an essential brain neurotransmitter. It is also

essential for the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, glucose

metabolism, optimal energy levels, and for wound healing.

Therapeutic levels of pantothenic acid are used to support adrenal and joint

function and another form, pantethine, is used as an aid in lowering blood

cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Deficiency Symptoms

Many foods contain pantothenic acid, therefore a deficiency of this nutrient is

rare. The Greek word " Panthos, " from which its name is derived means

" everywhere. " The first sign of B-5 deficiency is generally fatigue and

listlessness, and in severe deficiency, the " burning foot syndrome " is the main

characteristic. This would include symptoms such as numbness and shooting pains.

Food Sources

Most fresh vegetables are good sources for B-5. Brewer's and nutritional yeast,

liver, eggs, mushrooms, avocados, broccoli, whole grains, bran, peanuts,

cashews, legumes, and soybeans are especially high in B-5.

Dosage Range

For general supplementation 4 to 7 milligrams daily is adequate. For use in

adrenal support the therapeutic dose would be 250 milligrams twice daily. 2

grams daily is the therapeutic dose for rheumatoid arthritis. The dosage of

pantethine taken for the purpose of lowering cholesterol and triglycerides is

300 milligrams, three times daily.

Vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine) is involved in a myriad of bodily functions; more than

almost any other single nutrient. It is needed for the production of the

neurotransmitters norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine, which are all

necessary for optimal brain function. B-6 also influences endocrine function in

the brain. Pyridoxine plays and important role in the growth of red blood cells,

the health of skin and mucous membranes, effective immune function, and it is

required for the proper functioning of more than 60 different enzymes.

B-6 has been used for prevention and treatment of a large range of degenerative

diseases including cancer and arteriosclerosis. It can be taken therapeutically

for conditions such as PMS, bloating, carpal tunnel syndrome, depression,

epilepsy, kidney stones, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, autism, immune

enhancement, MSG sensitivity (those who are sensitive to MSG are often deficient

in B-6), and in diabetes for the prevention of diabetic complications.

30 - 40% of the population may have problems converting B-6 into P5P

(pyridoxyl-5-phosphate), its main active form in the body. Those who are

afflicted with illnesses may be unable to activate B-6. For these people the

activated form of B-6 (P5P) should be taken.

Diets high in protein will increase the body's requirements for B-6, as does the

consumption of alcohol and oral contraceptives.

Deficiency Symptoms

Depression, convulsion, glucose intolerance, anemia, impaired nerve function,

cracked lips and tongue, headaches, hair loss, seborrhea and eczema are all

characteristic of a B-6 deficiency.

Food Sources

Most foods contain some B-6 but those that are the best sources include brewers

or nutritional yeast, sunflower seeds, wheat germ, walnuts, carrots, legumes,

soybeans, chicken, eggs, fish, organ meats, spinach, blackstrap molasses, and

whole grains.

Dosage Range

For general supplementation 50 to 100 milligrams of B-6 is sufficient.

Contraindications

Excess B-6 can deplete other B vitamins, so always take it in balanced amounts

No more than 2,000 milligrams of B-6 should be taken per day as it can result in

symptoms of nerve toxicity. Therapeutic dosages should not be used long-term

unless they are under a total of 500 milligrams daily. If taking doses larger

than 50 milligrams for therapeutic benefit, the doses should be divided into

50-milligram doses, which can be taken during the course of the day. This is

important because the liver is unable to handle more than a 50-milligram dose at

a time.

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Vitamin B-12 (cyanocobalamin) stimulates RNA synthesis in nerve cells,

strengthens neurotransmitters, and increases concentration. It is necessary for

myelin formation and also aids in protecting arteries in the brain by

metabolizing homocysteine. B-12 is and essential nutrient for nervous system

health and production of red blood cells and plays a critical role in healthy

digestive function.

Absorption of vitamin B-12 is dependent on HCL (hydrochloric acid) in the

stomach and the bonding to a substance called intrinsic factor within the small

intestine. Intrinsic factor is secreted by the parietal cells of the stomach.

These cells are also responsible for the secretion of HCL. The insufficiency or

lack of intrinsic factor has been found more commonly among those of

Scandinavian, English, and Irish descent.

The Schilling test is used to determine if insufficient intrinsic factor is an

issue. The test involves taking a radioactive form of vitamins B-12 then

measuring the level excreted in the urine. Impaired absorption due to a lack of

intrinsic factor is indicated by a below normal urinary excretion of the

vitamin.

It may takes years to develop a B-12 deficiency and the resulting neurological

effects will be noticed before it can be detected by the usual blood tests.

Testing urine levels of methylmelonic acid is the best way of assessing a B-12

deficiency and will detect it before the blood levels of B-12 will record

outside the normal range. A B-12 deficiency causes slowly progressing and

irreversible nerve damage. New evidence suggests that B-12 can be deficient even

though pernicious anemia is not present. Even in cases where the blood does not

indicate it, B-12 may be dangerously deficient and can contribute to such

problems as mental deterioration, confusion, depression, and other cognitive

problems.

Unlike other water-soluble B-vitamins, B-12 is stored in the liver, kidney, and

other body tissues. As a result, signs and symptoms may not manifest themselves

until after 5-6 years of poor dietary intake or inadequate intrinsic factor. A

B-12 deficiency will effect the brain and nervous system long before pernicious

anemia becomes apparent.

Therapeutic levels of vitamin B-12 are used in diseases and conditions such as

AIDS, Alzheimer's disease, senility, compromised cognitive function, asthma,

sulfite sensitivity, depression, diabetic neuropathy, multiple sclerosis,

tinnitus, and low sperm count.

Deficiency Symptoms

Deficiencies have been associated with some forms of dementia. The symptoms

associated with a B-12 deficiency are fatigue, headaches, shortness of breath,

sore, beefy red, swollen tongue, digestive disorders, heart and nervous system

disturbances such as numbness and tingling of the arms or legs, depression,

mental confusion, and memory deficits. B-12 deficiency can mimic Alzheimer's

disease. B-12 is often deficient in vegans because the predominant source of

B-12 is animal products. It is also prevalent among the elderly population.

A B-12 deficiency is indicative of intestinal dysbiosis or the overgrowth of

toxic bacteria and a disturbance in the balance of beneficial bacteria in the

intestinal tract. Dysbiosis in turn will result in leaky gut if left untreated.

Leaky gut allows large protein particles, undigested food particles, and toxins

to permeate the intestinal walls and find their way into the blood stream where

they cause all kinds of problems. This is the starting point of many diseases.

Dysbiosis requires supplementation with the B complex, vitamin B-12, digestive

enzymes, and probiotics such as acidophilus and bifido bacterium. Zinc and

glutamine are helpful in healing leaky gut. It is beneficial to use all of these

supplements together to address the entire digestive tract. It is also important

to keep the diet free of sugar and processed foods.

Food Sources

The largest amounts of B-12 are found in nutritional yeast, liver, clams, eggs,

meats, fish, and dairy products. Some B-12 is available from sea vegetables such

as dulse, kelp, kombu, and nori.

Recommended Dosage

For vegetarians, 100 micrograms of B-12 daily is recommended. Methylcobalamin,

the active form of vitamin B-12, in sublingual tablets is the preferred form of

synthetic B-12. The amounts recommended in deficiency states are 2,000

micrograms daily for 1 month, followed by 1,000 micrograms daily for 3 to 6

months or until the methylmelonic acid levels in the urine are normal.

NOTE: Those with impaired digestive processes or over or under active thyroid

may have problems with B-12 absorption. Because of this, or if there is a

serious B-12 deficiency, a separate B-12 supplement may be taken in addition to

the B complex until the digestive processes and/or thyroid are normalized or the

deficiency dealt with. This should be taken at a different time during the day

than the B complex. For these people, it may be advisable to take the active

form of B-12 (methylcobalamin) in a sublingual form. Vitamin B-12 injections are

another possibility, though research has shown that this is no more efficacious

than oral administration of B-12.

Biotin aids in the utilization of other B vitamins, the metabolism of

carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, fatty acid production, and cell growth. It

promotes healthy skin and hair, nerve tissue, and bone marrow, and helps in

relieving muscle pain.

Deficiency Symptoms

Deficiency of biotin is rare because it is produced in the intestines from foods

that contain the vitamin. If a deficiency does occur it can cause a wide range

of symptoms including anemia, depression, hair loss, hyperglycemia, inflammation

of the skin and mucous membranes, insomnia, loss of appetite, muscular pain, and

nausea. Obviously, those consuming minimal amounts of biotin containing foods

will have greater risk of developing a deficiency.

Food Sources

Good sources for biotin are nutritional yeast, soybeans, whole grains, egg

yolks, milk, meat, poultry, and saltwater fish.

Antibiotics, sulfa drugs, and saccharin reduce the bioavailability of biotin as

do rancid or oxidized fats and oils. A protein called avidin that is present in

egg whites, binds with biotin in the digestive tract and can deplete the body of

this important nutrient.

Choline is a B vitamin that is the precursor of the neurotransmitter

acetylcholine and is essential for optimal memory function. Choline is easily

absorbed through the blood brain barrier, helps control harmful levels of

homocysteine, and protects and nourishes other chemicals that support memory.

Choline, along with B-12, is necessary for myelin formation.

Choline also plays a role in gall bladder regulation, liver function, and

lecithin formation, and aids in hormone production and in fat and cholesterol

metabolism.

Food Sources

Choline is a major ingredient in lecithin and lecithin makes up about 30% of the

dry weight of the brain. Lecithin provides other important nutrients including

phospholipids, fats, and glycolipids. Choline is also found in egg yolks, green

leafy vegetables, liver, soybeans, yeast, and wheat germ. The best supplemental

source is phosphatidyl choline.

Deficiency Symptoms

Impaired brain function and memory, cardiac symptoms, gastric ulcers, high blood

pressure, inability to digest fats, kidney and liver impairment, and stunted

growth are all possible results of a choline deficiency.

Recommended Dosage

500 - 1,000 milligrams per day for those aged 65 and under. Those over 65 may

need from 1 - 5 grams per day.

Folate (folic acid) is a nutrient that is often deficient because it is so

fragile. Though folic acid is present in many foods, its content in food is

greatly diminished by cooking and is progressively lower the longer food is

stored after picking. Because of this folic acid deficiencies are extremely

common.

Folic acid stores in the body are sufficient to sustain the body for only one to

two months. Alcohol consumption impairs folic acid absorption, disrupts folic

acid metabolism, and causes the body to excrete folic acid. Deficiency is common

among pregnant women. Drugs such as anti-cancer drugs, drugs for epilepsy, and

oral contraceptives also deplete folic acid. Folic acid deficiency will result

in diarrhea and malabsorption and the same type of anemia caused by B-12

deficiency.

B-12 must always accompany folic acid supplementation to prevent the folic acid

supplement from masking a vitamin B-12 deficiency. Folic acid will correct

anemia associated with the B-12 deficiency but will not remedy the problems that

the B-12 deficiency causes in the nervous system and brain. Folic acid is

extremely important for proper fetal development and prevention of heart

disease.

Folic acid works synergistically with vitamin B-12 in many of the body's

processes. It is critical for proper cell division and healthy nerve tissue. A

folic acid deficiency effects all cells in the body, but the rapidly dividing

cells such as red blood cells and cells of the GI tract are most notably

affected. Some of the symptoms caused by a folic acid deficiency are anemia,

depression, insomnia, irritability, forgetfulness, loss of appetite, and

fatigue.

Folic acid is available as folinic acid (5-methyl-tetra-hydrofolate).

Supplementing with this form is more effective in raising levels of folic acid

in the body because it relieves the body of the job of converting the folic acid

into folinic acid.

Food Sources

All dark leafy greens (the foliage that folic acid is named after) are good food

sources of folic acid. These include kale, spinach, beet greens, and chard.

Other sources are nutritional yeast, rice germ, wheat germ, blackeye peas, beans

and lentils, asparagus, liver, soybeans, wheat bran, and walnuts.

Recommended Dosage

400 - 800 micrograms daily with meals.

Contraindications

High doses of folic acid (5-10 milligrams) may cause gas, poor appetite, and

stomach upset. Those with epilepsy should avoid folic acid in high doses,

because it may result in increased occurrence of seizures.

If taking pancreatic enzymes, which may reduce folic acid absorption, take the

two supplements four to six hours apart.

Inositol is essential for hair growth, helps prevent hardening of the arteries,

and is important in the formation of lecithin and the metabolism of fat and

cholesterol.

Inositol has a calming effect and has been shown to be very effective in cases

where depression is an issue. Researchers at Ben Gurion University in Israel

demonstrated that supplementing with inositol successfully reduced depression in

patients who were unresponsive to antidepressants. Inositol is not only

effective, but also safe and non-toxic.

Deficiency Symptoms

A deficiency in inositol can result in arteriosclerosis, constipation, hair

loss, high blood cholesterol, irritability, mood swings, and skin eruptions.

Food sources

Whole grains, nutritional yeast, lecithin, citrus fruits, nuts, seeds, legumes,

unrefined molasses, meats, and dairy.

Recommended Dose

6 - 12 grams daily, in divided doses.

As we have seen, the B complex vitamins are of extreme importance to our health

and well being and they work together as a team. Deficiencies can imbalance the

whole B complex and deficiencies such as B-12 can cause severe and permanent

damage to the body. It is important that we take steps to supply this important

complex of vitamins to our bodies, first through our diets and secondly through

proper supplementation.

Chet's Comments

Railey, the author of the article you just read, writes some of the

best and most detailed articles and eBooks in the Natural Health Movement. If

you liked the article of 's you just read, click here to learn about her:

How to Improve Fading Memory

and Declining Thinking Skills with Nutrition

References

Balch, F., M.D. and Phyllis A., C.N.C., Prescription for Nutritional

Healing Avery Publishing Group, Garden City Park, N.Y., 1997

Crayhon, , M.S., Nutrition Made Simple Mt. and Company, Inc., New

York, 1994

DeCava, Judith, The Real Truth About Vitamins and Antioxidants

Murray, , N.D., Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements Prima Health,

Rocklin, CA, 1996

Murray, , N.D., and Pizzorno, ph, N.D., Encyclopedia of Natural

Medicine Prima Publishing, Rocklin, CA, 1998

Pizzorno, ph, N.D., Total Wellness Prima Health, Rocklin, CA, 1998

Re: [ ] Brewers Yeast and yeast infection

>Date: Mon, 8 Nov 2004 22:34:46 -0500

>

>Arnold,

>I did a little research and I have found arguments on both sides of the

>fence on this one - I always think when in doubt ere on the side of

>caution. I know that my Natural Health Practitioner - Dianne Craft has

>always advised me to not buy B vitamins that have yeast as an ingredient.

>Others say you should avoid fermented foods, vinegars, and brewers yeast if

>recurrent yeast overgrowth has been noted. I just think there are other

>natural food forms of this vitamin that are equally packed with nutrition

>and yet don't have the risk involved.

>

>

>

>

>

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