Coenzyme Q10, crucial against free radicals
Vitamin E
Lutein
B-complex vitamins
Vitamin C
Vitamin D
Calcium
Magnesium
Coenzyme Q10, crucial against free radicals
Coenzyme Q10 is a powerful antioxidant and has a protective function against free radicals. It is found in all the cells of the body and plays a role in the production of cellular energy. More specifically, it is found in mitochondria, the cellular power plants, where it acts as a hydrogen carrier and ensures the correct cellular respiration reducing the risk of oxidation.
It is a lipophilic molecule that the body can synthesize from some foods, such as meat, fish, oilseeds and spinach; it is efficiently absorbed if taken with a fat-rich meal. It works synergistically with B-complex vitamins and simplifies the absorption of other antioxidants. A poor intake of vitamins or other cofactors essential to its correct synthesis may cause a deficiency of coenzyme Q10. In any case, its production levels decrease with age and are influenced by lifestyle and health.
Coenzyme Q10 is well tolerated and is traditionally known as a useful adjuvant for different symptoms. At very high doses, it is also used for the treatment of some degenerative diseases. It is considered an anti-aging substance for its action against the peroxides which attack collagen and elastin, as well as for the consequent effectiveness against the loss of elasticity, and, as a result, the formation of wrinkles. Coenzyme Q10 is a very important element for the health of all the tissues characterized by a high energy demand, such as heart, kidneys and brain; since it is an essential cofactor in the production of cellular energy, it is useful for exercise, helps to improve endurance and aerobic capacity, and contributes to maintain an active metabolism.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an essential antioxidant for the body, since it plays a role in maintaining cellular integrity by capturing free radicals and it is useful for the health of the bones, teeth, hair, skin and nails. Besides increasing our body's immune defenses, it is crucial for the health of heart and blood circulation, for cognitive functions and memory. Its deficiency is commonly associated with an unbalanced diet. It is not advisable to take too much vitamin E because it is a complex and unpredictable substance. It takes time, sometimes months, to observe the beneficial effects of this vitamin. It is found in several foods such as: olive oil, peanut oil, wheat germ oil, wheat germ, liver, eggs, nuts, almonds, asparagus and avocado.
Lutein
Lutein is a natural pigment, a carotenoid precursor of vitamin A. It is a very important element for sight protection. It has a specific effect on the retina and is concentrated in the macula lutea, where it acts as a filter to protect it from sunlight. Besides fighting macular degeneration, it can be useful to prevent other age-related and degenerative eye diseases, such as retinitis pigmentosa and cataract. It also contributes to skin health. Lutein is not produced by the body and has to be supplied by the diet; it is found in all green leaf vegetables and in yellow-orange fruits.
B-complex vitamins
B-complex vitamins (B1, B2, B6, B12, niacin or vitamin B3, pantothenic acid or vitamin B5, folic acid or vitamin B9, and biotin or vitamin B7) play an essential role in metabolism and have an important protective action on the nervous system. They are also a significant factor in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. They are necessary to maintain muscle tone in the gastrointestinal tract, and for the health of the skin, hair, eyes, mouth and liver. It is essential to remember that all vitamins B must be taken together. They are indeed so closely related that a high dose of one of them can prove ineffective or cause a deficiency of the others. All B-complex vitamins are found in brewer’s yeast, liver and whole grains.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that protects the cells and is crucial for the health of vascular walls, teeth and gums, as well as contributing to skin health. It supports the immune system, the nervous system and energy metabolism. Its deficiency causes oxidative stress and damages due to the effect of free radicals on vascular cell walls. It is found in fruits and vegetables: citrus fruits, tomatoes, strawberries, melons, red and green peppers, potatoes, cauliflowers, broccoli, green leaf vegetables and soft fruits.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium and for its apposition at the bone level. In the absence of vitamin D, the intake of large amounts of calcium does not have a significant effect. Its production by the body is conditioned by the presence of sunlight, which activates it. Vitamin D deficiencies have repercussions at the bone level and favor osteoporosis. Foods containing vitamin D are: milk, butter, egg yolk, salmon, tuna, herring, mackerel, sardines, cod liver oil and mushrooms.
Calcium
Calcium is a mineral macroelement essential for bone structure and for the correct functioning of the nervous system, the muscular system and energy metabolism. It has a positive effect on weight control. Calcium deficiency can lead to irritability, anxiety and neuromuscular disorders. It is found in milk, dairy products, green leaf vegetables, beans, peas, sardines, salmon and almonds.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral element important for body balance, neuromuscular function, energy metabolism, brain activity and hormonal system. It contributes to the health of teeth and bones. Under stress conditions, large amounts of magnesium can be lost and its deficiency can cause tiredness and fatigue. It is found in cereals, nuts, almonds, peanuts, millet, buckwheat, cocoa, wheat germ, lentils and green vegetables, meats, starchy foods and dairy products. Cooking foods significantly reduces their magnesium content.
The information above about the ingredients used in helvesana® is based on diverse literature.
