Riboflavin is a common name for vitamin B-2 and was once known as Vitamin G. You will see Vitamin B-2 described as Riboflavin on the back of vitamin bottles and in other food packaging.

An interesting and curious fact about Riboflavin is that it is naturally produced by the bacteria in your gut. Although it may not be produced in sufficient quantities to prevent deficiencies. Intestinal production, however, can reduce the symptoms of a deficient state.

Some experts claim that B-2 deficiency is the most prominent nutrient deficiency in North America. Those who eat a diet largely constructed of refined and fast foods may be at risk. And of course, alcoholics are at higher risk of B vitamin deficiencies. Low-income individuals may also tend to be at higher risk due to diet.

Problems with blood proteins may lead to deficiency. And states that block or reduce the uptake of riboflavin into the cell can also be responsible for a deficient state. Therefore, just having an adequate supply of Riboflavin in your food does not necessarily preclude deficiency.

Brewer’s yeast and organ meats are sources that are high in Riboflavin. Lower amounts may be found in milk, eggs, green leafy vegetables and some fruits.

As a side note, I once had a biochemistry teacher whom offered two pieces of advice to his students. He told us to drink a gallon of water per day and to take some brewer’s yeast every day. As I remember it, he talked about how brewer’s yeast was excellent food for the cellular processes of the body. That was probably due to the fact that brewer’s yeast is an excellent source of the b vitamins.

Drinking a gallon of water per day was slightly unusual advice as most experts and nutritionists agree that 2 liters is an adequate intake. This biochemistry teacher was recommending twice that amount. Remember to consult with a physician before changing your diet, supplement or water intake.

Riboflavin is very important in cellular metabolism, the process by which your body produces usable energy. It is important in forming the coenzymes that are necessary to make ATP, which is the energy currency of the cells.

A partial list of deficiency symptoms include fatigue, sensitivity to light and dermatitis. Nerve tissue damage and retarded growth in infants and children can result from a deficiency.

More detailed and technical information about Riboflavin can be found at emedicine.com. If you have any doubts about your health as it relates to Riboflavin, ask your doctor for a proper diagnoses and treatment. Each human body is different with different needs and contraindications, that is why it is important to consult your physician.

This article is for information purposes only and is not intended to prevent, treat or diagnose any health issue. If you have or think you might have a health condition or issue, please contact your primary care physician for proper diagnoses and treatment. The statements in this article have not been evaluated by the US FDA as far as I know.

You have permission to publish this article electronically or in print, free of charge, as long as the author bylines are included and any hyperlinks are left active on web pages. You may make minor editorial corrections only.

MSM is a wonderful supplement with a low toxicity rating that naturally occurs in the body and targets a host of issues. Some of the problems it may help with include hair, skin, nails, muscle fatigue, allergies and scar tissue trouble. I have also heard of people with cancer utilizing the supplement. Once upon a time, there was a big craze about DSMO and how it helped arthritis sufferers. It has been observed that the solvent DSMO converts to MSM when it hits the blood stream. Taking MSM may be equivalent to using DSMO but without the side effects and problems that come with utilizing an industrial grade solvent.

What Does it Do?

Some of the patents I read on MSM suggest that MSM basically supplies the body with a usable form of sulfur, which can be used to repair connective tissues, aid in joint problems and potentially energize a system that pulls allergens out of our bodies. Studies have been conducted on MSM that seem to indicate that there has been a benefit to animals with joint problems.

Scar Tissue

If you have significant scarring, MSM may help to reduce the visible scarring. It may help to give the skin the sulfur it needs to help in restructuring; it may also help in preventing scars. So if you have a burn or jagged cut, it might be helpful to take MSM during the healing process.

The sulfur is useful in the process that is used to build skin; one theory is that if there isnt enough sulfur available the process is modified resulting in scar tissue. Hence, if you have enough sulfur, you could avoid scarring as tissue regrows, according to that theory.

The Best Part of DSMO

Remember the craze about DSMO a few years back? It was widely used for arthritis and joint problems. DSMO is a solvent and has some potential side affects. In addition, it doesn’t smell good and you have to wait for it to dry. It is an industrial grade solvent, so it is not very practical to use. Research has shown that DSMO is converted into MSM when it touches the blood stream. With MSM, you can get the benefits of DSMO without the potential side effects and problems.

Usable Form of Sulfur

How does MSM work? It provides a usable form of sulfur to the body, which is beneficial in a variety of different ways. In the case of allergies, there is a protein in your body that is used for removing allergens and free radicals and “junk” from your system. If there is not enough sulfur in your body, this great system is inhibited from working in an effective manner. Give your body a usable form of sulfur and this system becomes much more effective.

Safe for Consumption?

MSM may be safe for consumption, but I dont know that the FDA has officially labeled it as safe for consumption as of yet. We do know that it is found naturally in foods such as coffee, tea, milk and eggs as well as green leafy vegetables. MSM does naturally occur in the body and it is not considered toxic and may be comparable to water in its toxicity.

If you are concerned about dosages of MSM, refer to the directions on the labeling and packaging that MSM comes in. I used to take 1,000 mg. two times a day, with no side affects.

My experience with MSM was one of increased energy. That is, of course, a subjective experience, but it was very real to me. Another benefit to MSM is that it is supposed to make you recover faster from working out. It might do that by getting rid of the waste products inside the muscle quicker, this allows the soreness to disappear.

Get More Information

To find out more from a truly worthy source, go to any technical library and read the patent research on MSM. There are actually several patents associated with MSM and I gained a great deal from taking the time to read them.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose or suggest treatment for any health condition. Please consult a health care professional if you have or suspect you have any health related item for proper diagnoses and treatment.

Most new mothers are now showing some form of depression after birth. Usually, postpartum depression is not thoroughly discussed in childbirth classes where new mothers enroll for motherhood education. Such classes are only limited to the discussion of the mother’s physical recovery and taking care of the baby. Due to the lack of information, many new mothers do not have an idea and are not prepared for postpartum depression, which can feel like an emotional roller coaster. By being aware of the range of depression disorders that may arise during post-pregnancy, new mothers can better prepare for the overflow of emotions and, in the process, help their families cope with the challenges of childbirth-related emotional changes.

According to statistics, 80 percent of new mothers tend to have postpartum blues. The symptoms often start two days after giving birth as the hormones of pregnancy suddenly starts to fluctuate and adjust to meet the new baby’s constant demands. These mothers will experience extreme mood swings, and can manage these by self realization that these emotions are just based on hormonal shifts and fatigue. The best coping strategy for mothers use in dealing with postpartum blues is to have ample rest. These mothers need sleep for both physical and mental recovery. Adding to this, mothers should have a nutritious and balanced diet, plenty of fluids, and enough light daily exercise. By registering and joining new mother support groups, mothers can find great ways to share experiences and find mutual support with others who have postpartum blues. Most mothers with postpartum blues do not need medication, but can get relief from other forms of therapy such as acupuncture. Such condition generally resolves the emotional condition in about two to three weeks after birth.

Some women can develop postpartum anxiety disorders such as GAD generalized anxiety disorder, OCD obsessive compulsive disorder, and panic disorders. Mothers experience excessive worry or anxiety, repetitive compulsions, or extreme anxiety with chest pains, dizziness, sweating, and many other symptoms when dealing with disorders named above. Women dealing with these disorders would frequently have attacks early in the morning with chest and stomach pain, followed by emotions of concern and despair for the baby. Together with good eating habits, rest and exercise, mothers could also go for relaxation exercises, support groups, counseling, and use of anti-depressants.

When dealing with postpartum psychosis, one should be able to distinguish signs of depression from other more symptoms of anxiety disorders. A mother experiencing postpartum psychosis would have hallucinations or delusions. This kind of psychosis may not be noticeable to family members since there would often be periods when a new mother may seem fine and also show periodic changes in behavior.

When a new mother is suspected of having a psychosis, most likely, her judgment would be impaired and she shows irrational behavior. In such cases, both the mother and the baby are not safe. Though rare, psychosis should be treated as an emergency. The mother suffering this psychological condition would usually respond to medication. In other cases, the new mother needs to be confined to a hospital or treatment center.

In knowing all these, new mothers should not worry about having postpartum depression. All these disorders can be managed or treated with medication and therapy. With enough information, new mothers and their families can find relief from the depression and stress that comes with the physical, emotional, and hormonal changes that come with childbirth.

L-carnitine has been in the limelight lately because of the weight loss benefits it supposedly delivers to anyone who wishes to cut down on weight. This substance naturally occurs in the body and is said to be essential in converting fatty acids into energy that is necessary for a healthy heart. L-carnitine supplementation may contribute to optimal fat oxidation especially when coupled with healthy diets and regular exercise. Because weight-loss characteristics, l-carnitine is the main ingredient in many diet pills and supplements.

Methionine and lysine amino acids are the primary sources of l-carnitine. This substance is manufactured in the kidneys and liver and are transported to other tissues of the body. Medical studies say that high concentration in tissues of these acids help prevent the formation of potentially harmful fatty acids. Small amounts of l-carnitine are produced by the body on a daily basis. Additional supplementation may prevent the build-up of fatty acids in the liver and the heart. Dietary l-carnitine can be easily obtained from many food sources. The best sources of this substance is red meat like beef, sheep, and lamb. Milk, cheese, and poultry products contain some carnitine, while vegetables and fruit contain negligible amounts or none at all. Because of this, individuals should realize adequate consumption of essential amino acids may provide the necessary building blocks for the body to synthesize sufficient quantities of l-carnitine.

L-carnitine aids in weight loss by transferring long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria or the cell’s source of energy. By doing this, these fatty acids can be used to produce energy and burn fat. Aside from its weight-loss properties, l-carnitine may aid in the reduction of nervousness, stress, and irritability that are associated with low carbohydrate eating programs. Additional l-carnitine supplementation may also lead to improved energy, muscle fatigue, and the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.

Additional health benefits of l-carnitine may include the following

Enhances cellular activity in the brain
Improves mental performance
Helps slow down the effects of aging
Decreases the symptoms of aging
Helps prevent cataracts
Helps fight fatigue

Some medical experts advise individuals who exercise a lot to consume more l-carnitine because the body uses these essential amounts of this substance during intense physical activities. A deficiency in L-carnitine may result in muscle weakness, low energy levels, weight gain, and muscle cramps. In the long run, deficiencies of this substance may lead to diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, Alzheimer’s disease, and many more.

Overall, L-carnitine supplementation may help individuals lose weight and aid individuals who undergo rigorous sports training, or are suffering from l-carnitine deficiency. However, these supplements should never take the place of a healthy diet. L-carnitine should only be taken in small dosages because too much of this substance may have the opposite effects. As with other types of supplement, l-carnitine should be used with caution. This means a doctor’s approval is necessary before taking this drug. Instructions about dosage and frequency should be followed carefully. As long as this supplement is taken with care, individuals can benefit in many ways.

We’ve all heard about dressing for success, but most of us are stressing for success instead. Whether we are determined to climb the corporate ladder, be the best mommy, daddy, wife or husband on the planet, or grow our home-based business into a worldwide enterprise, we are all somehow stressing over something.

In fact, according to the experts, most of us are overworked and overstressed, while underpaid, undernourished, and under-rested. But, they note there is hope, as long as we are willing to take control by giving up some control

1. Make Time For Healthy And Relaxed Meals Eating on the run only leads to making damaging dietary choices. Let’s face it; it’s a lot easier to chow down on a doughnut or a burger and fries in the car that it is to savor a salad on the go. But, according to the experts, our eating habits are literally killing us. Take time to savor and enjoy your food and allow yourself enough time to make the right healthy choices. Consider making a healthy breakfast for yourself the night before, something quick and easy that you can eat while rushing at the door. And, brown bagging your lunch, even dinner if you’re working late, is also highly recommended.

2. Move Around, Not Only Up In The Business World While you’re busy moving up in your profession or career, make sure you take time out to move around and give your body the moderate exercise it needs. From walking instead of taking the elevator to go pick up your afternoon java jolt, to actually finagling into your day a fitness routine, spend less time thinking about what to do, and just do something.

3. Sweet Dreams Burning the midnight oil can deplete you of both energy and enthusiasm, so make sure you get enough but not too much sleep. According to experts the best way to accomplish this is by sticking to routine and reserving the bedroom strictly or mostly for sleeping. And if you still suffer from insomnia you may want to consult a doctor.

4. Actively Put An End To Stress Come to the realization that there are just some things that can wait, some you have no control over, and some things that putting off won’t affect. Make the decision to stop pushing your limits, and making some time for the most important obligation of all, you and your family. Even if it’s 10 minutes, make sure to set aside some time to do something meaningful and enjoyable to you.

The 21st Century is best characterized by the advent of ultra-modern technology, global commercial and business, and the unstoppable desire to get and stay ahead. Because of these factors, business corporations compete in a world where the economy is active 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This phenomenon created a demand for employees that would work even during the night upto the wee hours of the morning. This work schedule reversed employee lifestyle, making the day their time to for sleeping. Shifts may disrupt the normal body functions, hamper sleep cycles, and reduce the body’s serotonin levels. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is found in the central nervous system and impacts multiple functions like mood, sleep, sexuality, and appetite. This neurotransmitter may also promote cell regeneration.

Studies show that non-day shift workers tend to have lower levels of feel-good hormones called serotonin. Researchers at the University of Buenos Aires led by Dr. Carlos J, Pirola studied 683 men and compared 437 day workers to 246 shift workers. The results, the shift workers’ serotonin levels, measured through blood tests were significantly lower than those on regular day schedules. In addition to reduced serotonin levels, shift workers were also found to have higher cholesterol, hip-to-waist ratios, increased blood pressure, and higher triglyceride levels.

Because serotonin levels administer sleep patterns and other body functions, the University of Buenos Aires study suggested that shift work may also lead to a so-called Shift Work Sleep Disorder. People with this disorder tend to remain awake when they should be sleeping. These individuals can be very tired during waking hours. This disorder takes place because of a work schedule that takes place during the normal sleep period. Because of this, people who have difficulty getting sleep because their bodies are still programmed to be awake. The time of being asleep and being awake is different from what the body’s internal clock expects.

Other studies also found out that non-standard and night shift work may affect the cardiovascular and metabolic systems. These studies suggest that there is a possibility that shift work is directly responsible for high blood pressure and increased body fat, according the researchers of the Buenos Aires study. In addition to the disruption of sleep patterns, reduced levels of serotonin are also linked to other conditions like stress, anxiety, and depression.

Lifestyle changes can lead to improved serotonin levels. To make serotonin levels consistent, sleep patterns should be consistent and food regimens should include necessary vitamins and minerals to control the serotonin levels. Certain drugs and substances like caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and antidepressants should be avoided because they may deplete serotonin production.

Individuals who want to improve their serotonin levels can use medication to aid them in their goal. The amino acid 5-HTP can be taken as a supplement and improve the body’s ability to manufacture serotonin. Another amino acid called L-tryptophan is used by the body to produce serotonin. However, before taking these supplements, patients are advised to seek the approval of doctors and other health professionals. Individuals who choose to work in the night should maintain adequate rest to lessen ill-effects that may develop. Healthy lifestyles and nutritious food regimens may improve serotonin levels and improve one’s quality of life.