VITAMIN B5 (pantothenic acid)

Functions: vital for a healthy immune system • important in metabolism (use) of protein, fat and carbohydrate • necessary for the manufacture of antibodies • plays role in maintaining health of nervous system.

Deficiency signs and symptoms: decreased resistance to disease

• depression • irritability • fatigue • headaches • dizziness • lack of coordination • weakness • malaise • insomnia • tremors • sweating • weakness • muscle soreness • irregular heart rhythms

• dermatitis.

It is very difficult to suffer from a deficiency of vitamin B5 because it’s found in so many foods. But due to the stresses of modern living, we need generous amounts of this vitamin. Vitamin B5’s enemies: cooking • processing and canning of foods

• caffeine • alcohol • excessive boiling of food • deep freezing and thawing.

VITAMIN B12

Functions: vital for a healthy immune system • needed for production and growth of red blood cells in the bone marrow and their release into circulation when mature • necessary for DNA synthesis • plays a role in maintaining the myelin sheath that protects nerve cells.

Deficiency signs and symptoms: a reduction in red blood cell, white blood cell, and platelet counts, which can cause anemia and immune system problems • irritability • headaches • forget-fulness • dizziness • fatigue • weakness • heart palpitations • enlarged spleen • numbness and tingling of the extremities • sore tongue • constipation • loss of appetite • the classic vitamin B12 deficiency disease of pernicious anemia.

Vitamin B12’s enemies: excessive boiling of food • sunlight • alcohol.

*162\80\8*