VitaBlog The Vitacost Blog: Views and News on Vitamins, Supplements and Herbs

Got Vitamin D3?

It's pretty well-known by now that calcium is important for the development and maintenance of healthy teeth and bones. But did you know that vitamin D is just as important to your teeth and bones because it is used by the body for the absorption of calcium?

Vitamin D is also necessary for the maintenance of healthy phosphorous levels in the body and works with a number of other vitamins, minerals and hormones to support bone mineralization. Vitamin D supports a healthy immune system and helps regulate cell growth and differentiation. In addition, vitamin D supports healthy blood pressure and blood sugar levels already within normal range, as well as muscle strength. 

Food sources of vitamin D include cod liver oil, salmon, mackerel, tuna and sardines, as well as milk and milk products, whether skim or whole, when fortified with vitamin D. 

Vitamin D3, also known as cholecalciferol, is a form of vitamin D that is manufactured by the body when the skin is exposed to the UV rays of the sun. Sunscreens with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 8 or higher block the UV rays that produce vitamin D3 – but remember that it is still very important to use sunscreen to keep skin healthy!

Weather conditions may also inhibit the body's ability to produce the most beneficial levels of vitamin D3. Other factors include age, excessive use of alcohol, strict vegetarian (vegan) diets and overactive parathyroid glands.

Because of the many reasons for not getting optimal levels of vitamin D3, it may be necessary to augment your diet with a quality vitamin D3 supplement. The suggested daily recommended requirement for vitamin D3 is 1,000 IU.

Stay healthy and strong!

 

 

Fill your senses with fragrant, soothing body and bath oils

Meetings, appointments, deadlines, workouts and just plain running around – whew! You need to take time to relax, recoup and rejuvenate. Let the world temporarily float away while you pamper your body and mind with fragrant, therapeutic body and bath oils.

Imagine, body and bath oils infused with pure plant and botanical extracts, essential oils, and sumptuous fragrances such as French lavender, wild rose, sweet almond and jojoba…body and bath oils enriched with nutrients such as vitamin E, sunflower oil and wheat germ oil…helping to leave your body feeling clean, refreshed and nourished while you soak or shower…or helping you to unwind when massaged into the skin…ah, heaven!

In order to choose body and bath oils that offer the most pleasing benefits for your body and mind, select body and bath oils that contain only the finest, purest ingredients that naturally moisturize and nourish the skin, and are free of artificial preservatives, colors and fragrances.

So feel free to indulge in a truly sensuous experience with body and bath oils anytime you like – after all, with the crazy day you've had – your body, mind and senses are worth it!

 

 

Alfalfa promotes digestive, bone and heart health

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is a very versatile legume known for its numerous benefits. Civilizations have used alfalfa for centuries to support overall well-being. Due to its deep root system, alfalfa is able to pull many valuable materials from the soil, making alfalfa rich in beneficial materials and nutrients. 

The materials and nutrients found in alfalfa leaves include calcium, magnesium, potassium and carotene. The leaves of the alfalfa plant are also rich in protein, vitamins E and K, as well as all eight essential amino acids and ten non-essential amino acids. Alfalfa is also a good source of chlorophyll.

The benefits associated with alfalfa's various compounds are numerous! For starters, alfalfa may help support healthy blood sugar and cholesterol levels already in the normal range – which can help maintain overall heart health. Due to its alkalizing nature, alfalfa may have a detoxifying effect on the body. With its high nutritive value, alfalfa also supports healthy energy levels. 

Alfalfa is also rich in saponins, which may support immune system function, as well as highly active antioxidants. Alfalfa contains plant estrogens (phytoestrogens) which help maintain bone health. In addition, the high fiber content in alfalfa may help support healthy digestive function.

 

Herbal toothpaste helps maintain your natural charm – naturally!

Herbal toothpaste helps maintain your natural charm – naturally!

As the saying goes – take care of your teeth, and they'll take care of you! Herbal toothpaste, when used as part of your daily oral hygiene routine, is a natural way to help maintain good dental health.

Consisting of formulations that include natural barks, roots, plants, flowers, nutrients and gentle abrasives, an effective herbal toothpaste not only cleans, polishes and whitens your teeth, it also helps maintain healthy gums and fresh breath.

In addition to brushing your teeth after every meal with a gentle, effective herbal toothpaste, it is important to:

• use a toothbrush with soft bristles – and be sure to get a new one every three months
• take your time while brushing – brush for at least three minutes
• brush away from your gums for optimal cleansing
• floss at least once a day to help remove all plaque and debris
• visit your dentist twice a year for a professional cleaning and checkup
• eat a well-balanced diet that includes fibrous foods such as fruits and vegetables that help clean and nourish teeth and surrounding tissues
• drink plenty of water instead of sugary sodas
• and finally…smile like you mean it!

When choosing an herbal toothpaste, make sure the herbal toothpaste contains safe and effective herbal extracts. It is also important that the herbal toothpaste you use is free of animal ingredients, artificial preservatives and sweeteners, as well as any unnatural ingredients that may harm tooth enamel and irritate gums.

So be sure to use a natural, gentle and great tasting herbal toothpaste to keep your smile healthy and dazzling for years to come!