Helpful Supplements
*B5 - Pantothenic Acid
Pantothenic Acid is known as the stress vitamin because of its role in the manufacture of adrenal hormones. Many hypoglycemics have reduced adrenal function, so Vitamin B5 is a very important addition to the hypoglycemic diet. Pantothenic acid is used in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and glucose and supports the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal system.
Dosage: RDA 5mg
Avoid coffee and alcohol-both reduce the effectiveness of Vitamin B5.
*B6 - Pyroxidine
Pyroxidine is involved in the manufacture of many of the proteins and hormones in your body and is needed for brain function. It is also used in making genetic material. Vitamin B6 is critical to your immune system and in antibody and red cell production. It aids digestion by helping metabolize fats, carbohydrates and proteins and through the production of digestive enzymes and HCL (stomach acid).
It has been used in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome with some success but more work is needed to determine the amount of improvement that can be expected without surgery.
Dosage: RDA 2.0mg
Vitamin B6 enhances zinc absorption. Tobacco, coffee, alcohol and birth control pills all reduce the effectiveness of this important nutrient.
*B12 - Cyanocobalamin
Vitamin B12 is needed for proper growth and development of red blood cells. It is also helpful in ensuring proper digestion through the absorption of nutrition from foods and synthesis of protein.
A deficiency of B12 can result in Pernicious Anemia. Pernicious Anemia was fatal until the 1920's when it was discovered that eating liver could reverse the disease. It was only later that it was discovered that liver was a good source of Vitamin B12.
Dosage: RDA 6mcg
Meat is the only food source of Vitamin B12, so vegetarians must supplement their diet with this Vitamin. Alcohol, tobacco, coffee and laxatives inhibit the absorption and action of this important nutrient, so habitual use of any of these should be avoided.