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Benefits of Vitamin B2 riboflavin

Benefits of Vitamin B2 riboflavin

 

Cracked lips and mouth corners; a swollen, red tongue; eyes burning, itching, or tearing from extra blood vessels in the cornea; and a scaly, greasy dermatitis in skin folds.

Stress increases our need for riboflavin, vitamin B2, and during periods of emotional or physical pressure, you will need to insure that you increase your intake. Like  the other B vitamins, riboflavin is water soluble and easily antagonised by substance such as caffeine, alcohol, estrogen and in this case, Zinc.

Riboflavin plays a vital role in the production of thyroid hormone, which speed up metabolism and helps to ensure a steady supply of energy, also aids the body in producing  infection-fighting immune cells; it works in conjunction with iron to manufacture red blood cells, which transport oxygen to all the cells in the body. In addition,  riboflavin produces substance that asists antioxidants, such as Vitamin E, in protecting cells against damage form the naturally occurring, highly reactive molecules known as free radicals. It is essential for tissues maintenance and repair- the body use extra essential amounts to speed the healing of wounds after surgery, buns and other injuries.

The vitamin is also necessary to mantain the function of the eyes, and may be important for healthy nerves as well. In combination with other B vitamins, including vitamin B6 and niacin, it may help against a broad range of nerve  of nerve and other ailments, including Alzheimer disease, epilepsy and multiple sclerosis, as well as anxiety, stress and even fatigue.

! B2 is necesary for healthy skin, hair, and nails, but too much alcohol and coffee will destroy this vitamin!

Dosage 50 mg is adequate, although your practitioner may recommend higher doses for therapeutic purposes. The best supplements are those that contain all of the B vitamins.

Facts:

Vitamin B2, riboflavin is far more stable than thiamine, although it can be destroyed by excess zinc, antibiotics, estrogen, caffeine, and alcohol. Sunlight can also destroy riboflavin, which is why milk cartons are made from opaques materials.

  • Aids growths
  • promotes skin, hair and nail health
  • necessary for metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates
  • necessary for reproduction
  • activates vitamin B6
  • convert carbohydrates to energy
  • reduces the frequency and severity of migraines
  • Riboflavin has proved valuable in treating skin disorder including rosacea, which causes facial flushing and skin pustules in many adults.

Deficiency symptoms

Sore mouth, lips and tongue, insomnia, photosensitivity, bloodshot, gritty eyes, scale red skin on the sides of the nose. Stress increases your need for riboflavin.

Good sources. Milk, yogurt,   liver, fish, eggs, meat, leafy green vegetables, yeast, fish, wholegrains, avocados, mushrooms.

Therapeutic uses: Some anemias, cataracts, vision problems ( in particular eye fatigue) acne rosacea and other skin problems, carpal tunnel syndrome.

Special notes: riboflavin is not toxic at any known level. However, some minor symptoms of excessive riboflavin include mild numbness and itching and burning sensation

Like thiamine, riboflavin requires other B vitamins to work most effectively.

A well balanced diet is especially important for the elderly, many of whom are deficient in riboflavin and other B vitamins.

Cautions

Reminder! If you have a medical or psychiatric condition, consult your doctor before taking supplements.

Madelena

nutrition and weight management

herbal medicine

MLD therapiest

 

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Pneumonia

What is pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an inflammation of one or both  lungs, which is usually caused by an infection. This inflammation causes tiny air sacs (called the aleveoli) inside your lungs to fill with fluid. This makes it harder for the lungs to work properly. Your body sends white blood cells to your lungs to try to fight the infection. Although this helps kill the germs, it can also make it harder for your lungs to pass oxygen into your bloodstream.

What causes pneumonia?

Many different kinds of bacteria, viruses and, occasionaly fungi can cause pneumonia. The most  common cause is a type of bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae, but in individual cases the cause can be unknown

In winter the number of cases of pneumonia rises. This is because of infection spreading from person to person, and because other infections are more to common in the winter, such as influenza (flu). An infection with flu can lower your immune system, increasing your risk of picking up pneumonia

What are the symptoms?

If you have pneumonia, you will feel unwell and experience symptoms that are similar to flu or a chest infection. The symptoms usually develop gradually over days, but sometimes they can progress much faster

Almost all people with pneumonia will have a high temperature. This can sometimes be very high and you might also sweat and shiver. Another symptom is a cough that brings up phlegm (mucus).

If your breathing is quick, this suggests that the pneumonia is likely to be severe. Confusion is also a serious sign.

A sharp pain in the side of your chest, wich becomes worse when you take a deep breath, usually means that pleurisy has developed. This measn the thin outer covering of the lung becomes infected and inflamed by the pneumonia.

Who is the most of risk?

Anyone of any age can get pneumonia. In adults, approximately 5-11 people out of every 1,000 get the condition each year in the UK. Pheumonia can be more of a threat for two groups of people:

  • Firstly, people who have a higher risk of developing pneumonia, such as those with a weaker immune system.
  • Secondly, people who are not at extra risk of developing pneumonia, but if they do develop it they may experience worse effects. This group includes people with heart or lung disease and other medical conditions.

Both these groups need to take more care to reduce their chances of developing pneumonia and any potential complications.

People in these high-risk groups include:

  • older people, babies and infants
  • people with long-term heart, lung and kidney conditions, and those with diabetes
  • people with cancer, especially those having chemotherapy or who have leukaemia or lymphomapeople
  • people who smoke or drink alcohol to excess
  • people receiving drugs that suppress the immune system, and those with HIV/AIDS.

In addition to these groups, people who are in hospital for other problems sometimes developpneumonia during their stay. This does not mean that the hospital is unhygienic, but that their resistance to the germs that can cause pneumonia has been weakened by thir other medical problems.

 Preventing pneumonia

Not smoking is essential to reduce risk of pneumonia. Smokers have an increased risk of developing pneumonia and other chest  infections-and so do children whose parents smokeInfections that are common in winter can increase the risk of pneumonia. Therfore , its important to practice good hygiene to reduce the spread of germs.

One person in five in the UK is affected by lung disease. Millions more are at risk.

 

If you are experiencing the symptoms described here, seek medical advice as soons as possible

 

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Vitamine B1 or Thiamine

Vitamine B1 or Thiamine is a water soluble vitamin, which means it is not stored in the body.

A member  of the B complex family, it is necessary for the functioning of the nervous system.

Thiamine is easily  destroyed by air, water, caffeine, alcohol, estrogen and food additives, so its necessary to eat fresh, whole foods in order to get optimum levels of this important vitamin. All of the B complex vitamins should be taken in combination for best effect.

Thiamine is the lest stable of the vitamins, and cooking and processing cause massive losses to occur.

It is known as the “morale vitamin”, because of its effect on mental outlook and the nervous system in general.

  • necessary for the production of energy, brain, muscle , heart an the nervous system function.
  • necessary for the conversion of carbohydrates to energy
  • improves mental state
  • promotes growth

Deficiency symptoms

  • the most common deficiency symptoms is beriberi, and long term deficiency can take a great time to put right, even when the diet is altered to supply adequate amounts.

Good sources

  • dried yeast, beans, wholegrains, oatmeal, pork, vegetable, milk, brown rice

Therapeutic uses

postoperative pain, treatment of the herpes, zone zoster ( shingles), epilepsy, trigeminal neuralgia and sensory neuropathy in diabetes

Special notes

Vitamin B1 is not toxic in any known quantities and is one of the safest of the vitamins

Foods that claim to be thiamine enriched are likely to contain less than normal quantities, since the thiamine lost in processing is usually more than the quantity added

The B vitamins are synergistic, which means that they work together. Insure that you take vitamins B1, B2 and B6 in roughly equal

quantities.

A folic acid deficiency and eating large quantities of raw fish, blackcurrants and red cabbage among other , will discourage thiamine metabolism

Smoking, alcohol, the contraceptive pill and a diet high in sugar will increase requirements.

REMINDER! If you have a medical condition, consult your doctor before taking supplements.

Madelena

nutrition and weight management

herbal medicine

MLD therapiest

 

 

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Vitamin A, retinol and beta carotene

Vitamin A

Retinol and beta carotene

Retinol is the naturally occurring form of vitamin A, and it is founded mainly in animal product. Beta -carotene, also called “plant” vitamin A, is, in fact, a carotenoid, which is converted into vitamin A by our livers. Vitamin A stores in your body can be depleted by infection, so is a good idea to boost your intake during colds, flu and other viral and bacterial conditions. Retinol is metabolized better by your body if you take it with fat, oil, or protein in the same meal.

Beta carotene is found in all brightly coloured fruits and vegetables, and is generally believed to be safer than retinol, which is fat soluble.

Alpha carotene is found in carrots and pumpkin; lycopene is abundant in red fruits, such as watermelon, red grapefruit, guava and , in particular, cooked tomatoes. Lutein and zeaxanthin are plentiful in dark green vegetables, pumpkin an red peppers, and crytoxanthin is present in mangoes, oranges and peaches.

The primary benefit of carotenoids lies in their antioxidant effect- protecting the cells of the body from damage by unstable oxygen molecules called free radicals.

Carotenoids may guard against certain types of cancer, apparently by limiting the abnormal growth of cells. Lycopene, for instance, appears to inhibit the development of prostate cancer. Lycopene may also be effective against cancer off the stomach and digestive tract. Studies show that high intakes of alpha carotene, lutein and zeasanthin decrease the risk of lung cancer, and that crypoxbathib and alpha carotene lower the risk of cervical cancer.

There is a link between low levels of carotenoids and menstrual disorder.

Facts:

  • boost immunity
  • help to prevent cancer
  • antiaging
  • necessary for healthy eyesight, mucous membrane, synthesis of protein, and tissue development

Deficiency symptoms

  • poor vision (night blindness), mouth ulcers, frequent infections, dandruff, your scalp may become dry, and acne.

of retinol : liver, fish liver oils, cheese, butter

of betacarotene: carrots, apricots, cantaloupe, parsley, spinach, kale, sweet potatoes

Carotenoids are pigments that give plants their colour and beta carotene in particular is a good antioxidant which may help to slow down the ageing process and prevent cancer.

Take vitamin E and C with vitamin, A, since polyunsaturated fatty acids work against vitamin A unless there are antioxidants present

The body needs Zinc to utilise stored vitamin A

Retinol in very high dosses may causes headaches, some nausea, and liver problems. Pregnant women, ot those planning a pregnancy, should not take in excess of 7.500 iu per day because it can cause birth defects. They should also avoid eating animal livers.

In a major European study lycopene was shown to be effective in preventing heart attacks. Men who consumed large amounts of lycopene had only half the risk of a heart attack compared with men who took small amounts. the protective effect was most marked among non smokers.  All carotenoides, in special alpha carotene and lycopene, block the formation of LDL (‘bad’) cholesterol, which can lead to heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems.

REMINDER! If you have a medical condition, consult your doctor before taking supplements.

Madelena

nutrition and weight management

herbal medicine

MLD therapiest

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Causes and symptoms of Acne

Causes and symptoms of Acne

Although most people associate acne with the troublesome teenage years, it can erupt at any age. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways to control outbreaks- no matter how old are you when they occur.

Symptoms

  • hard red bumps or pus-filled lesions on the skin
  • red, inflamed skin with fluid filled lumps or cyst

What it is

Spots and other skin eruptions are the hallmarks of acne, a sometimes chronic condition of the face, back, chest, neck, shoulders and other area of the body. The most common form ( acne vulgaris) encompasses blackheads, whiteheads and raised red blemishes with semisolid centre. In severe cases ( cystic acne), cluster of painful, fluid filled cyst or firm, painless lumps appear beneath the skin surface; both can lead to unsightly permanent pitting and scarring. For teenagers especially, acne can be embarrassing and emotionally condition.

What causes it

Acne occurs when sebaceous glands at the base of the hair follicles of the skin secrete too much sebum, this thick, oily substance is normally released from the pores to keep the skin lubricated and healthy. If the sebum backs up, it can form hard plugs, or comedos, that block the pores and cause spots. Should one of these oil plugs rupture beneath the skin’s surface, a localised bacterial infection can develop.

Hormonal imbalances can lead to an overproduction of sebum- a common problem during adolescence, especially in boys. In women, menstrual periods or pregnancy can also create acne-producing hormonal disturbance. Other acne triggers include emotional stress; the friction or rubbing of clothing against the skin; and certain medication, particularly steroids, contraceptive or drugs that affect hormone levels. Heredity may play a role as well.

How supplements can help

Most people will benefit from trying the supplements. It often takes three to four weeks, or longer, to notice results.

Vitamin B6 may be useful for acne aggravated by menstrual cycles or the menopause. Vitamin C, vitamin E and selenium promote a healthy immune system, helping to keep acne-causing bacteria in check. Taken with any or all of these vitamins, Zinc enhances immune function, reduce inflammation, and promotes healthy hormone levels. Long term use of zinc, inhibits copper absorption, so it should be taken with that mineral.

The herbal approach

The dietary factor is related to the state of the body’s ability to metabolise fats and carbohydrates

The herbal approach aims at supporting the metabolism of these food  and at helping lymphatic drainage and body elimination. Dietarily, the intake of fats, sugars and carbohydrates must be reduces, while more fruit and vegetables be eaten.

Chasteberry is traditionally used to help with the treatment of menstruation-related acne. Other herbal remedies that are traditionally used for the treatment of acne include burdock, yellow dock, red clover are especially useful, lymphatic like Echinacea and Pokeweed Root and hepatics alike Blue Flag and Dandelion should also be considered

What else you can do

  • wash daily, using a natural soap and water
  • eat a balanced diet; avoid foods you may feel may act as acne triggers
  • choose natural cosmetic based on Aloe Vera, Neem oil, Lavander and Tea Tree essential oil, avoid coconut oil (can clog the pores)
  • avoid squeezing spots, rub the face; it increases inflammation and can cause scarring
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Dandelion the best natural sources of potassium

Dandelion the best natural sources of potassium

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

I would like to introduce one of my favourite herb: dandelion. Don’t weed out your dandelions, embrace them 🙂

Constituents: Glycosides, triterpenoids, choline, up to 5% potassium.

Actions: Diuretic, cholagogue, anti-rheumatic, laxative, tonic.

Dandelion is a very powerful diuretic, its action comparable to that of the drug “Frusemide”.

The usual effect of a drug stimulating the kidney function is a loss of vital potassium from the body, which aggravates any cardio-vascular problem present. Patients which take Frusemide, also are monitored for Potassium level, and if the level drops under normal range, Potassium is administrated, to replace what was lost.

A moderate potassium deficiency can increase your blood pressure, lead to salt sensitivity, increase your risk of cardiovascular disease and reduce the health of your bones. In addition to heart arrhythmias, excessively low potassium levels — a condition called hypokalemia — can cause glucose intolerance, weakness, fatigue, muscle cramps and stomach problems. In some cases, heart arrhythmia, or an irregular heartbeat, can be fatal and lead to sudden death.  When the heart does not beat properly, it cannot effectively pump blood to the brain, organs and muscles.

Potassium is well absorbed from the small intestine, with about 90 percent absorption, but is one of the most soluble minerals, so it is easily lost in cooking and processing foods.

On the other hand, with Dandelion, we have one of the best natural sources of potassium. It thus makes an ideally balanced diuretic that may be used safely wherever such an action is needed, including in cases of water retention due to heart problems.

As a cholagogue it may be used in inflammation and congestion of liver and gall bladder. It is specific cases of congestive jaundice. As part of a wider treatment for muscular rheumatism it can be most effective. This herb is a most valuable  general tonic and perhaps the best widely applicable diuretic and liver tonic.

The whole plant is bitter, particularly the root which has digestive stimulating properties. This action can be harnessed in a decoction to encourage bowel movements ( bile being a natural laxative) and is safe and effective even for children.

SUMMARY: Dandelion aids the liver and kidneys to clear bodily wastes, it is a go to herb for those suffering from chronic skin and joints problems, including acne and eczema, arthritis and rheumatism.

 

Homemade  dandelion and carrot soap: dandelion infused olive oil, carrot pulp, turmeric,  shea butter, coconut oil, palm oil. No flagrance. Anti-allergic, anti-fungal, antimicrobial.

Properties of the carrot and dandelion soap combine to make this a great soap for fighting acne, ageing, and is extra moisturising. Beta carotene, a precursor to active vitamin A is critical for healing any type of wound. Dandelion Rich in Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium and Phosphorous, these are all minerals which are required for healthy skin function. The natural anti-fungal content and the high alkaline levels, help fight off infection in the skin tissues, which can be useful for eczema and the bacteria which promotes acne. The anti-fungal and antimicrobial properties help to keep the skin clean and safe.

 

Madelena

herbal medicine

nutrition and weight management

MLD therapiest
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What is a portion? Why count calories?

What is a portion? Below are some examples of what constitutes 1 portion of each food group.

A healthy balanced diet is important for a maintaining good health. It improves general wellbeing, helps with weight management and reduce the risk of long term conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer.

Why count calories?

If you are trying to lose or gain weight, it is useful to have an understanding of the amount of calories in the foods and drink you consume. Knowing the calorie contents of food helps us to carefully select the types of food we eat so that we can avoid excess, choose healthier options and maintain a healthy weight. 1 kilogram is 7,000 calories, so if you consume just 100 calories per day more than your requirements  e.g. by eating one or two biscuits each day), in one year this is equal to 36,500 calories. This could mean a weight gain of around 5 kg (10lb) in one year, just by having 100 calories per day more  than you need.

Below are some examples of what constitutes 1 portion of each food group.

Fruit and vegetables:

ONE portion = 80g = any of these

  • 1 apple, banana, pear, orange or other similar sized fruit
  • 2 plums or similar sized fruit
  • ½ a grapefruit or avocado
  • 1 slice of large fruit, such as melon or pineapple
  • 3 heaped tablespoons of vegetables (raw, cooked, frozen or tinned)
  • 3 heaped tablespoons of beans and pulses (however much you eat, beansand pulses count as a maximum of 1 portion a day)
  • 3 heaped tablespoons of fruit salad (fresh or tinned in fruit juice) or stewed fruit
  • 1 heaped tablespoon of dried fruit (such as raisins and apricots)
  • 1 handful of grapes, cherries or berries
  • a dessert bowl of salad
  • a glass (150ml) of fruit juice (however much you drink, fruit juice counts as a

maximum of 1 portion a day)

Bread, cereal, rice and pasta and potatoes:

  • 1 slice bread
  • 1 egg sized potato
  • 3 tbsp breakfast cereal
  • 2 heaped tablespoons of cooked pasta and rice

Milk and dairy:

  • 200 ml of milk
  • 150g low fat yoghurt
  • 125g cottage cheese
  • 30g hard cheese

Meat, fish, eggs, beans and other non-dairy source of protein:

  • 85g-100g cooked meat or fish
  • 3-4 tablespoons of dried beans
  • 2 eggs
  •  tablespoons of nuts or seed

 

 

 

 

 

 

Madelena

nutrition&weight management

herbal medicine

MLD therapiest

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Manual lymphatic drainage

Manual lymphatic drainage is described as “One of the best kept secrets on the health and beauty scene”.

Manual lymphatic drainage’s intensely relaxing effect masks the strength of the treatment itself. It is a very gentle, repetitive and rhythmical light touch massage that improves the ability of the body’s lymphatic system to cleanse from the inside out

Energetic and Mind Body Effects of Manual Lymphatic drainage

Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) was developed in the 1930’s by the Danish practitioner Dr Emil Vodder and widely recognised and practised in American and European clinics to treat variety of different conditions.

Breathing techniques are also an important part of this treatment.

You’ll usually be lying down and may have to remove some of your clothing. The massage is done without any oils or creams, using the hands very gently to move the skin in a particular direction.

Lymph drainage massage has many beneficial effects beyond the physiological process such as meditative state. While stimulating lymph flow on a physiological level, MLD will relax the client breath and heart rate, resulting in a balancing  of the client energy.

The MLD Treatment – what to expect
The first visit to a trained MLD therapist will include a consultation during which the therapist will recommend the number and frequency of future sessions. Each session will last approximately one hour. Where appropriate the therapist will work in conjunction with your medical practitioner

Lymphatic drainage is a specialized hand technique that consists of very gentle and rhythmic movements, administered by a highly trained therapist. Each stroke slightly moves the skin in the direction of the lymphatic flow to encourage the drainage of fluid and waste. Depending what your complaints are, the focus of a lymph massage for general immune stimulation is typically on the upper body, including the face, neck, and arms. After your lymph massage, it’s important to drink plenty of water, reduce your salt intake and avoid alcohol.

Manual Lymph Drainage 

  • 35 Minutes –£ 35
  • 45 Minutes – £ 45
  • 60 Minutes – £60
  • Anti ageing massage 30 minutes: £30

Madelena- MLD therapist

nutrition and weight management advisor

Book an appointment

human anatomy, lymphatic system, medical illustration, lymph nodes
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Benefits of eating apples

Apples, food that heal

Apples, food that heal are high in pectin, a fibre and and slow release sugar that help to regulate the body’s blood sugar level and improve heart health.

Apples contain important vitamins  and minerals, that promotes among other things strong and healthy bones.

Benefits of eating apples ( green, red, yellow apples). Green apple contain malic acid a useful digestive help. Red apples, rich in antioxidants, that can protect against neurological damage associated with condition such as: Alzheimers’s disease. The pectin helps lower the body’s absorption of excess dietary fats.

  • blood sugar regulation
  • constipation and diarrhoea ( can provide relief from both constipation and diarrhoea, depending of body needs)
  • protecting bones
  • reduce cholesterol

Don’t forget!

Apples most of them are coated with wax to give a shine and keep the fresh over long periods, hence, always wash  thoroughly these apple before eating.

Go organic and from sources as local as possible, from the fresh fruit without chemical contamination.

 Do not peel the skin!  Peeling can remove more than half an apple’s fibre, Vitamin C and iron.

 

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Signs of toxic overload

Signs of toxic overload

Answer the following questions as truthfully as you can.
The aim of a detox programme are to reduce the workload of the digestive system, allowing it to perform more efficiently, and to stimulate the parts of your body that are responsible for cleansing and elimination.
The food detox programme improves the digestive system and immunity, increases the actions of the liver and kidneys, the main organ of detoxification.

However  to get the most out of detoxing you need to look after your mind as well as your body. Well being depends on maintaining a balance between your emotional, mental, spiritual and physical health, and if this balance is upset it disrupts your body’s harmony and leads to ill health.

Assess your toxic load

1) Do you feel tired when you wake up in the morning even though you have had enough sleep?
2 ) Do you drink more than 3 cups of coffees, tea or caffeinated fizzy drinks such as cola day?
3) Do you suffer from skin rashes, spot around the mouth or eczema?
4) Do you suffer from bloating after meals?
5) Do you have an alcoholic drink most days?
6) Do you smoke or libe with smokers?
7) Do you live or work in a city?
8) Do you rarely eat fresh fruit or vegetables?
9) Do you eat read meat more than twice a week?
10) Do you eat fried food and junk foods?
11) Do you suffer from constant colds, hay fever or allergies?
12. Do you have mood swings?
13) Do you crave certain foods such as sweets and bread?
14) Do you skip meals, especially breakfast?
15) Do you put weight easily?
16) Do you find difficult co concentrate?
17) Do you often have irregular bowel movement ( constipation or diarrhoea)?
18) Do your joint or muscle sometimes ache?
19) Do you feel tired and lethargic most of the time?
20) Do you suffer from fungal infections such as thrush, athlete’s foot or ringworm?

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