Supplements & Vitamins – (why & side effects)
Supplements & Vitamins ~ What they are recommended for and the possible side-effects from long-term use/over-use
Vitamin A
Recommended for…
vision, immunity, cell growth, acne, wrinkles, measles, dry eye, leukemia, cancer, cataracts, hiv,
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
increase the risk of osteoporosis, fatigue, irritability, mental changes, anorexia, stomach discomfort, nausea, vomiting, mild fever, excessive sweating, irritability, sleepiness, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of consciousness, headache, vision problems, peeling skin, increased risk of pneumonia and diarrhea
Vitamin D
Recommended for…
osteoporosis, heart, blood vessels, diabetes, obesity, COPD, high blood pressure, high chloestorol, MS, arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, pms, tooth & gum disease, skin conditions, immune system, cancer prevention,
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
hardening of arteries, kidney stones, lymphoma, incease of calcium levels
Vitamin E
Recommended for…
Antioxidant, prevents stroke, cancer, heart disease. preventing diseases of the heart and blood vessels including hardening of the arteries, heart attack, chest pain, leg pain due to blocked arteries, and high blood pressure. treating diabetes, cancer prevention, particularly lung and oral cancer in smokers; colorectal cancer and polyps; and gastric, prostate, and pancreatic cancer. Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, Parkinson’s disease, night cramps, restless leg syndrome, and for epilepsy, along with other medications. Vitamin E is also used for Huntington’s chorea, physical endurance, increasing energy, reducing muscle damage after exercise, and improving muscle strength. cataracts, asthma, respiratory infections, skin disorders, aging skin, sunburns, cystic fibrosis, infertility, impotence, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), peptic ulcers, for certain inherited diseases and to prevent allergies.
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
increase the chance of having a serious stroke called hemorrhagic stroke, which is bleeding into the brain. High doses can also cause nausea, diarrhea, stomach cramps, fatigue, weakness, headache, blurred vision, rash, and bruising and bleeding. Vitamin E might make bleeding disorders worse
Vitamin C
Recommended for…
preventing and treating the common cold. gum disease, acne , skin infections, bronchitis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease, stomach ulcers , tuberculosis, dysentery, boils, bladder and prostate infections. depression, thinking problems, dementia, alzheimers, stress, fatigue, ADHD, increase absortion of iron from foods, glaucoma, preventing cataracts, preventing gallbladder disease, dental cavities (caries), constipation, Lyme disease, boosting the immune system, heat stroke, hay fever, asthma, bronchitis, cystic fibrosis, infertility, diabetes, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), autism, collagen disorders, arthritis and bursitis, back pain and disc swelling, cancer, and osteoporosis. improving physical endurance and slowing aging, aiding drug withdrawal in addiction.
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
nausea, vomiting, heartburn, stomach cramps, headache, kidney stones and severe diarrhea. raise blood sugar
Vitamin B1
Recommended for…
inflammation of the nerves outside the brain (peripheral neuritis), digestive problems, poor appetite, diarrhea, aids, boost immune system, diabetic pain, heart disease, alcoholism, aging, brain damage, canker sores, vision probems, cervical cancer, kidney disease, postive mental attitude, enhancing learning abilities, increasing energy, fighting stress, preventing memory loss, alzheimers, alcohol withdrawel
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
N/A
Vitamin B2
Recommended for…
increasing energy levels; boosting immune system function; maintaining healthy hair, skin, mucous membranes, and nails; slowing aging; boosting athletic performance; promoting healthy reproductive function; canker sores; memory loss, including Alzheimer’s disease; ulcers; burns; alcoholism; liver disease; sickle cellanemia, cervical cancer, and migraineheadaches. acne, muscle cramps, burning feet syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome, and blood disorders , eye fatigue, cataracts, and glaucoma.
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
riboflavin can cause the urine to turn a yellow-orange color., increase in urine, diarrhea
Vitamin B3
Recommended for…
VITAMIN B3 (NIACIN AND NIACINAMIDE (VITAMIN B3). Niacin is used for high cholesterol. circulation problems, migraineheadache, dizziness, reduce diarrhea, diabetes, schiizophrenia, hallucinations due to drugs, alzheimes, age-related loss of thinking skills, chronic brain syndrome, depression, motion sickness, alcohol dependence, fluidcollection (edema), acne, leprosy, ADHD, memory loss, arthritis, PMS Headache, improve digestion, protect against toxins/pollutants, reducing the effects of aging, lowering blood pressure, improve circulation, relaxation, orgasm, prevent cataracts
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
flushing reaction : burning, tingling, itching, and redness of the face, arms, and chest, as well as headaches. avoid alcohol. stomach upset, intestinal gas, dizziness, pain in the mouth, liver problems, gout, ulcers of the digestive tract, loss of vision, high blood sugar, irregular heartbeat, stroke risk, make allergies more severe because they cause histamine, increase the risk of irregular heartbeat. increase blood sugar. make gallbladder disease worse. bring on gout. Don’t take niacin or niacinamide if you have low blood pressure or liver disease or kidney disease, or stomach ulcers
Vitamin B5
Recommended for…
dietary deficiencies, acne, alcoholism, allergies, baldness, asthma, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, burning feet syndrome, yeast infections, heart failure, carpal tunnel syndrome, respiratory disorders, celiac disease, colitis, conjunctivitis, convulsions, and cystitis. It is also taken by mouth for dandruff, depression, diabetic nerve pain, enhancing immune function, improving athletic performance, tongue infections, gray hair, headache, hyperactivity, low blood sugar, trouble sleeping (insomnia), irritability, low blood pressure, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, muscular cramps in the legs associated with pregnancy or alcoholism, neuralgia, and obesity. osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, nerve pain, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), enlarged prostate, protection against mental and physical stress and anxiety, reducing adverse effects of thyroid therapy in congenital hypothyroidism, reducing signs of aging, reducing susceptibility to colds and other infections, retarded growth, shingles, skin disorders, stimulating adrenal glands, chronic fatigue syndrome, salicylate toxicity, streptomycin neurotoxicity, dizziness, and wound healing.
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
diarrhea
Vitamin B6
Recommended for…
anemia, heart disease, high cholesterol, PMS, morning sickness, stopping milk flow, depression related to pregnancy, menopause, alzheimers, ADHD, down syndrome, autism, diabetes, nerve pain, migraine headaches, asthma, carpal tunnel syndrome, night leg cramps, muscle cramps, arthritis, allergies, acne, infertility, dizzziness, morning sickness, eye disease, seizures, convulsions due to fever, increase appetite, help remember dreams, boost immune system, eye infections, bladder infections, prevent cancer/kidneyt stones, , required for proper function of sugars, fats and proteins in the body. Required for proper growth and development of the brain, nerves, skin.
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite, headache, tingling, sleepiness. Brain and nerve problems with long-term use
Vitamin B12
Recommended for…
anemia, memory loss, alzheimers, boosting mood, energy, concentration, immune system, slowing aging, heart disease, lower high homocysteine levels, male infertility, diabetes, sleep disorders, depression, mental disorders, osteoporosis, slowllen tendons, aids, inflammatory bowel disase, asthma, allergies, preventing cervical cancer, skin infections, ms, eye disease, lyme disease, gum disease, ringng in ears, bleeding, liver/kidney disease, protection against poisons and allergens in tobacco smoke / cigarettes, required for proper function / develoment of brain, nerves, blood cells
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
diarrhea, blood clots, itching, serious allergic reactions, blindness (if you have hereditary leber’s disease),
Folic Acid
Recommended for…
preventing and treating low blood levels, prevent colon cancer or cervical cancer. (anemia), ulcerative colitis, liver disease, alcoholism, and kidney dialysis. prevent heart disease and stroke, memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease, age-related hearing loss, preventing the eye disease age-related macular degeneration (AMD), reducing signs of aging, weak bones (osteoporosis), jumpy legs (restless leg syndrome), sleep problems, depression, nerve pain, muscle pain, AIDS,
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
abdominal cramps, diarrhea, rash, sleep disorders, irritability, confusion, nausea, stomach upset, behavior changes, skin reactions, seizures, gas, excitability, increase the risk of heart attack. Don’t take more than 400 mcg per day unless directed by your healthcare provider.
Biotin
Recommended for…
hair loss, brittle nails, skin rash in infants (seborrheic dermatitis), diabetes, and mild depression. break down certain substances like fats, carbohydrates, and others.
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
N/A
Calcium
Recommended for…
osteoporosis, pms, leg cramps, reducing cancer risk, high blood pressure, high chloestorol, lyme disease,
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
heart attack.
Magnesium
Recommended for…
nerve function, strung-out, anxiety, insomnia, cramps, spasms, migraines, recurring kidney stones, high blood pressure, laxative for constipation, diseases of the heart and blood vessels including chest pain, irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, high levels of “bad” cholesterol called low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, low levels of “good” cholesterol called high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, heart valve disease (mitral valve prolapse), and heart attack. (ADHD), anxiety, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), Lyme disease, fibromyalgia, leg cramps during pregnancy, diabetes, kidney stones, migraineheadaches, weak bones (osteoporosis), premenstrual syndrome (PMS), altitude sickness, urinary incontinence, restless leg syndrome, asthma, hayfever, multiple sclerosis, and for preventing hearing loss. increase energy and endurance. equired for the proper growth and maintenance of bones. nerves, muscle
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure, confusion, slowed breathing, coma, and death.
Zinc
Recommended for…
addiction, depression, adhd, loss of appetite, unintended weight loss, bad skin, poor wound healing, difficulty shifting infections, low mood, low energy, low thyroid hormone levels
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
copper deficiency, aleness, orthostatic pulse changes, heart murmur, anemia and neutropenia.
Manganese
Recommended for…
osteoporosis, anemia, pms, processing of cholesterol, carbs, protein, bone formation.
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
symptoms resembling Parkinson’s disease, such as shaking (tremors)
Chromium
Recommended for…
stablise blood sugar, depression, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), lowering “bad” cholesterol, and raising “good” cholesterol weight loss, increasing muscle, and decreasing body fat. improve athletic performance and to increase energy.
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
skin irritation, headaches, dizziness, nausea, mood changes and impaired thinking, judgment, and coordination. High doses have been linked to more serious side effects including blood disorders, liver or kidney damage,
Selenium
Recommended for…
Powerful anti-oxidant, protect cells against free radicals, reduce risk of cancer., heart disease, blood vessel disease, stroke, hardening of the arteries, prevent cancer of the prostate, stomach, lung, skin. Under-active thyroid, osteoarthrities, rheumatoid arthritis, eye disease, hayfever, infertility, cataracts, gray hair, abnormal pap smears, chronic fatigue syndrome, mood disorders, arsenic poisoning, preventing miscarriage. preventing bird flu, treating hiv/aids, reducing side-effects from chemo. increases the action of antioxidants
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
nausea, vomiting, nail changes, loss of energy, and irritability, hair loss, white horizontal streaking on fingernails, nail inflammation, fatigue, irritability, nausea, vomiting, garlic breath odor, and a metallic taste. muscle tenderness, tremor, light-headedness, facial flushing, blood clotting problems, liver and kidney problems, Long-term consumption increase chance of getting type 2 diabetes, increase risk of skin cancer recurrence, increase risk of death, increase cancer, worsen under-active thyroid
Omega-3
Recommended for…
bad lifestyle, drinking, drugs, adhd, depression, suicidal, anxiety, pani attacks, bipolar, irritable, anger, aggressive, concentration, memory, hostility
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
increase total blood cholesterol, inhibit blood clotting, increased risk of bleeding (01)
Omega-6
Recommended for…
reducing the risk of heart disease, lowering total cholesterol levels, lowering “bad” (LDL) cholesterol levels, raising “good” (HDL) cholesterol levels, and reducing cancer risk. evening primrose oil – breast pain, prevent/treat cancer,
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
evening primrose – allergic reactions, upset stomach, nausea, soft stools, or headache , rash, itching/swelling (face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing
Lecithin
Recommended for…
Lecithin is a fat that is essential in the cells of the body. Found in soybeans and egg yolks. treating memory disorders (dementia/alzheimers), gallbladder disease, liver disease, depression, high cholesterol, anxiety, eczema brain function, Burns fat faster, protects cells from oxidation, provides liver support, lowers blood cholesterol, protects against heart attack & stroke.
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, or fullness.
Tyrosine
Recommended for…
low energy, apathetic, memory, fuzzy, depressed, quitting smoking, depression, add, adhd, inability to stay awake, improve alertness following sleep deprivation, stress, pms, parkinsons, alzheimers, chronic fatigue, alcohol and cocaine withdrawel, heart disease, stroke, erectile dysfunction, oss of interest in sex, schizophrenia, appetite suppressant, reduce age-related wrinkles
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
Tyrosine seems to be safe when used in doses up to 150 mg/kg per day for up to 3 months. Some people experience side effects such as nausea, headache, fatigue, heartburn, and joint pain.
Ginseng
Recommended for…
adrenalin, energy, stress Siberian ginseng is used for conditions of the heart and blood vessels such as high blood pressure, low blood pressure, hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), and rheumatic heart disease. kidney disease, Alzheimer’s, adhd, chronic fatigue, diabetes, fibromyalgia, arthritis, flue, colds, chronic bronchitis, tuberculosis, improve athletic performance and ability to do work, insomnia, herpes simplex type 2, boost immune system, prevent colds, increase appetite. Siberian ginseng contains many chemicals that affect the brain, immune system, and certain hormones. It might also contain chemicals that have activity against some bacteria and viruses.
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
drowsiness, changes in heart rhythm, sadness, anxiety, muscle spasms, increased blood pressure, pounding heart, irregular heartbeat, affect blood sugar levels, makes mania or schizophrenia worse
NADH
Recommended for…
energy production of cells, mental clarity, alertness, concentration, chronic fatique, adhd, depression, NADH is used for improving mental clarity, alertness, concentration, and memory; alzheimers, improve athletic endurance, treating chronic fatigue syndrome, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, jet lag, depression, parkinsons, boosting immune system, opposing alcohol’ effects on the liver, reduce signs of aging,
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
safe for up to 12 weeks, short-term use only
Niacin
Recommended for…
Niacin and niacinamide are forms of Vitamin B3. high cholesterol. circulation problems, migraineheadache, dizziness, diabetes, schizophrenia, hallucinations due to drugs, Alzheimer’s disease and age-related loss of thinking skills, chronic brain syndrome, depression, motion sickness, alcohol dependence, and fluid collection (edema). acne, leprosy, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), memory loss, arthritis, preventing premenstrual headache, improving digestion, protecting against toxins and pollutants, reducing the effects of aging, lowering blood pressure, improving circulation, promoting relaxation, improving orgasm, and preventing cataracts. maintain healthy cells. heart disease, poor diet, alcoholism,
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
flushing reaction : burning, tingling, itching, and redness of the face, arms, and chest, as well as headaches. avoid alcohol. stomach upset, intestinal gas, dizziness, pain in the mouth, liver problems, gout, ulcers of the digestive tract, loss of vision, high blood sugar, irregular heartbeat, stroke risk, make allergies more severe because they cause histamine, increase the risk of irregular heartbeat. increase blood sugar. make gallbladder disease worse. bring on gout. Don’t take niacin or niacinamide if you have low blood pressure or liver disease or kidney disease, or stomach ulcers
L-tryptophan
Recommended for…
L-tryptophan is used for insomnia, sleep apnea, depression, anxiety, facial pain, a severe form of premenstrual syndrome called premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), smoking cessation, grinding teeth during sleep (bruxism), attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Tourette’s syndrome, and to improve athletic performance.
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
POSSIBLY UNSAFE 1500 reports of EMS and 37 deaths because of contaminated Japanese batch. fatigue; intense muscle pain; nerve pain; skin changes; baldness; rash; and pain and swelling affecting the joints, connective tissue, lungs, heart, and liver. heartburn, stomach pain, belching and gas, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. It can also cause headache, lightheadedness, drowsiness, dry mouth, visual blurring, muscle weakness, and sexual problems.
coQ10
Recommended for…
Healthy heart, increased energy, found in every cell of body, powerful anti-oxidant, helps cells produce more energy. diabetes, gum disease (both taken by mouth and applied directly to the gums), breast cancer, Huntington’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, muscular dystrophy, increasing exercisetolerance, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), and Lyme disease, increase energy. strengthening the immune systems of people with HIV/AIDS, male infertility, migraineheadache, and counteracting muscle pain sometimes caused by a group of cholesterol-lowering medications called “statins.” increasing life span.
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
mild side effects including stomach upset, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. allergic skin rashes, lower blood pressure,
Grape Seed Extract
Recommended for…
Powerful anti-oxidant, neutralize free radicals, prevent cancer, heart disease, premature aging, look younger, live longer. 50 x more powerful than Vit E, 20 x more powerful than Vit C. Reduce skin aging, increase capillary strength, enhance cardiovascular function, strengthen heart, stimulate hair growth, reduce bad cholesterol. Preventing diseases of the heart and blood vessels, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, “hardening of the arteries” (atherosclerosis), high blood pressure, swelling after injury or surgery, heart attack, and stroke. diabetes complications, nerve & eye problems, improves would healing, prevent tooth decay, prevent cancer, eye diseases, poor night vision, liver disorders, hayfever, adhd, chronic fatigue syndrome, diarrhea, heavy menstrual bleeding, canker sores, lower levels of bad cholesterol, relax blood vessels, reduce risk of coronary heart disease, antioxidants help prevent heart disease.
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
diarrhea, stomach upset, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, cough, dry mouth, sore throat, infections, headache, and muscular problems.
Probiotics
Recommended for…
Enhances immune response, decrease cholesterol, better digestion. treating and preventing diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS); colic in babies; Crohn’s disease; inflammation of the colon, urinary tract infections (UTIs), vaginal yeast infections, to prevent the common cold in adults, and to prevent respiratory infections in children , fever blisters, canker sores, eczema (allergic dermatitis); and acne. high cholesterol, lactose intolerance, Lyme disease, hives, and to boost the immune system. treat vaginal infections and urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
Weakened immune system from supplements that contain live bacteria
Apple Cider Vinegar
Recommended for…
(Raw/Organic/Undistilled) Provides body with potassium, enzymes & other vitamins for healthy digestive & circulatory system, normalizes weight, improves digestion, removes toxins, relieves muscle stiffness, natural anti-biotic, helps keep skin, tissues and joints youthful, fights arthritis, removes crystals and toxins from joints, tissues and organs. (osteoporosis), weight loss, leg cramps and pain, upset stomach, sore throats, sinus problems, high blood pressure, arthritis, to help rid the body of toxins, stimulate thinking, slow the aging process, regulate blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, and fight infection. topically for varginal infections (bath),
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
low potassium. weak bones
Flax Seed
Recommended for…
Healthy, trim body. Lowers cholesterol, contains essential Omega 3-6 Fatty Acids, contains soluble & insoluble fibre, prevent cancer, immune and inflammatory disorders, boosts metabolism.. constipation, colon damage, diarrhea, IBS, high cholesterol, hardening of the arteries, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, acne, ADHD, kidney problems, lupus, menopause, breast pain, obesity, diabetes, weight loss, HIV/AIDs, depression, bladder infections, malaria, arthritis, upper respiratory tract infections, sore throat, cough, osteoporosis, protect against breast cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, acne, eczema, psoriasis, sooth inflammation, arthritis, high cholesterol, osteoarthritis, anxiety, vaginal infections, dry eyes, hardening of the arteries, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, adhd, constipation, weight loss, prevent breast / prostate cancer
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
Flaxseed should be taken with plenty of water to stop blocking of intestines. slow blood clotting, lower blood sugar levels, loose stools and diarrhea. allergic reactions,
Lysine
Recommended for…
prevent/treat cold sores, improve athletic performance, prevents herpes virus from growing
Possible side-effects from long-term/over-use
stomach pain and diarrhea. kidney disease
Here is a list of alternative ways of adding vitamins & nutrients into your diet:
Here is a list of vitamins for certain conditions:
References