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

Lithium Not Just for Bunnies

Is the lithium in Energizer Batteries the same as the lithium in dietary supplements? Actually, yes. Lithium is a trace element (better known as a metal) that's contained in grains and vegetables. To that end, the lithium aspartate used in dietary supplements is much more bioavailable than other forms.

Why would anyone want to take lithium? Nutritionists say that lithium aspartate may indeed help support overall health. Lithium aspartate may support healthy brain, thyroid and cognitive function, as well as promote a healthy mood.

Lithium supplements are commonly found in capsule or tablet form. Please consult with your doctor before adding any supplement, such as lithium aspartate, to your daily routine.

Disclosure of Material Connection: This blog is written exclusively by employees of Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com and writers of the VitaBlog have a material connection to any links contained within. This disclosure is made in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.5 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

L-Arginine Supports Muscles

L-arginine is touted among bodybuilders and athletes as a means to enhance muscle recovery during exertion. L-arginine is a non-essential amino acid produced by the body that aids the production of nitric oxide and improves muscle performance.

L-arginine steps up circulation (vasodilation) to the muscles, say researchers, including the penis, which may result in harder, longer erections. Although penal stimulation was not listed as a variable in the experiment, reads one report, the symptom was common among numerous subjects. 

This begs the question, "Will L-arginine light up my sex life?" It may, and it can't hurt. L-arginine isn't that expensive to try and there are several good brands available. Friends of mine who say they've gotten stiffer from L-arginine also say that, in order for it to make a difference, they've had to take the entire daily dose all at once about a half hour before sex, and even then the effect is short-lived.

Disclosure of Material Connection: This blog is written exclusively by employees of Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com and writers of the VitaBlog have a material connection to any links contained within. This disclosure is made in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.5 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

More Than Great-Tasting Tea: Kombucha Supports Health

Kombucha Tea may not be better for you than orange juice or grapefruit juice, but it may help support overall health.

Also known as Manchurian mushroom tea, Manchurian fungus tea, Kwassan, combucha tea and / or the champagne of life, Kombucha is a fermented beverage made from mushroom. It contains different cultures, along with organic acids, active enzymes, amino acids and polyphenols. In short, it's the antioxidant cocktail of a lifetime.

In America, Kombucha is most commonly consumed in tea form, but is available in both extract and pill.  When taken regularly, Kombucha may help maintain a healthy immune system and fight harmful free radicals.

Disclosure of Material Connection: This blog is written exclusively by employees of Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com and writers of the VitaBlog have a material connection to any links contained within. This disclosure is made in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.5 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Kelp me Please

Kelp is a type of sea vegetable, something people might refer to as "seaweed," often seen floating on the ocean's surface or washed up on the beach. But even though it may get in the way of your stroll in the sand, it's not completely useless.

Kelp supplements have been around a long time and for good reason. Kelp is high in vitamins, minerals, Iodine and phytonutrients. Most diets are lacking in iodine, which is why it has been added to certain food sources. Kelp may help support normal thyroid and pituitary function, as well as healthy hair, nails and skin.

As with any supplement, be sure to consult with your doctor before giving Kelp a try.

Disclosure of Material Connection: This blog is written exclusively by employees of Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com and writers of the VitaBlog have a material connection to any links contained within. This disclosure is made in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.5 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”