Republished with permission from SpectraCell Laboratories The Importance of Individualized Nutrition for Athletes From a nutritional standpoint, the athlete’s focus should include both macronutrients–protein for muscle rebuilding, carbohydrates for energy renewal, fats for nerve function—as well as the critically important micronutrients, which are the vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and amino acids your body needs to function… Read More »
Micronutrient Testing in Celiac Disease – When a Gluten-Free Diet is Not Enough
Republished with permission from SpectraCell Laboratories Celiac disease is characterized by the inability to tolerate gluten, which is a protein found in wheat, rye and barley. When gluten is ingested by a person with celiac disease, an allergic reaction follows that causes serious damage to the intestinal wall, ultimately creating malabsorption issues and a host… Read More »
The Role of Micronutrients in Neurology
Republished with permission from SpectraCell Laboratories A single micronutrient deficiency can contribute to any number of disorders of the nervous system, including migraines, neuropathy and even Alzheimer’s. Similarly, a high amount of oxidative stress at the cellular level could predispose a person to certain neurological complications. SpectraCell’s micronutrient testing measures over 33 vitamins, minerals and… Read More »
Sleep Apnea and the Correlation with Nutrients and Minerals
Republished with permission from SpectraCell Laboratories Perhaps you’ve heard about the correlation between low Vitamin D and sleep apnea. But did you know that there are at least 10 different nutrients that affect sleep? Addressing these 10 common nutrient and trace mineral deficiencies may help you improve the care and treatment of your patients who struggle with… Read More »
Vitamin K Deficiency & Weight Loss
Republished with permission from SpectraCell Laboratories Vitamin K is a group of structurally similar, fat-soluble vitamins that the human body needs for post translational modification of certain proteins required for blood coagulation, and in metabolic pathways in bone and other tissue. The primary function of vitamin K is to aid in the formation of clotting factors… Read More »
Drug-induced Nutrient Depletion
Republished with permission from SpectraCell Laboratories When a patient takes prescription drugs or over-the-counter medication, chances are their nutrient levels may be affected. Below are some of the possible deficiencies that are correlated with each corresponding drug. Antacids/Ulcer medications vitamin B12 – Anemia, depression, tiredness, weakness, increased cardiovascular risk Folic Acid – Birth defects, cervical… Read More »
Vitamin B12: Function, Deficiency Symptoms and Repletion
Republished with permission from SpectraCell Laboratories Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) is needed to form blood and immune cells, and to support a healthy nervous system. A series of closely-related compounds known collectively as cobalamins or vitamin B12 are converted into active forms, methylcobalamin or 5’-deoxyadenosylcobalamin. Methylcobalamin interacts with folate metabolism, preventing folate derivatives from being trapped… Read More »