Providing quality and effective health products for Filipinos.

In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining a balanced diet can be challenging. Busy schedules and dietary restrictions often lead to inadequate intake of essential vitamins and minerals. Daily multivitamins offer a practical solution to bridge these gaps and support overall health.

Modern diets often lack necessary nutrients like iron, vitamin C, calcium, and vitamin A. Studies show that a high percentage of Filipino adults have inadequate intakes of these nutrients. Multivitamins supplements provide a convenient way to ensure daily intake of essential nutrients, especially benefiting older adults and pregnant women who have increased needs.

Cognitive and Physical Benefits

Multivitamins play a crucial role in maintaining cognitive function and physical performance. B vitamins, such as B6, B12, and folate, are essential for brain health and can improve memory in older adults. Antioxidants like vitamins C and E protect the brain from oxidative stress, reducing neurodegenerative disease risk. For active individuals, multivitamins help replenish nutrients lost during physical activity, supporting fitness and recovery.

Enhancing Immune Function and Mental Health

A well-functioning immune system is essential for health. Vitamins C, D, and zinc boost immune function, reducing infection risks. B vitamins also improve mood and reduce symptoms of stress, enhancing mental well-being.

Practical and Safe Supplementation

While a balanced diet is ideal, multivitamins offer a practical way to ensure adequate nutrient intake. Used appropriately and in consultation with healthcare providers, multivitamins can effectively promote overall health.

Conclusion

Incorporating multivitamins into your daily routine is more than just filling dietary gaps; it’s a proactive step toward safeguarding your health. With proven benefits for brain function, physical health, immune resilience, and emotional balance, multivitamins can be essential for your body’s nutritional needs.

Consult your healthcare provider to determine if a multivitamin supplement is right for you.

References

1. Estepa-Garcia K, Fontanilla JA, Ocampo-Yamamoto MA, et al. Position Statements on Oral Micronutrient Supplementation in Nutrition and Appetite Support Across the Continuum of Care. The Filipino Family Physician Volume 61 Issue No. 1, January-June, 2023

2. Fekete M, Lehoczki A, Tarantini S, et al. Improving Cognitive Function with Nutritional Supplements in Aging: A Comprehensive Narrative Review of Clinical Studies Investigating the Effects of Vitamins, Minerals, Antioxidants, and Other Dietary Supplements. Nutrients. 2023;15(24):5116. Published 2023 Dec 15. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15245116

Recently, some studies have questioned the role of multivitamins in helping people live longer. However, many studies still maintain that multivitamins play a crucial role in keeping us healthy. Multivitamin supplements can help fill nutritional gaps, support overall health, and potentially prevent certain diseases.

Bridging Nutritional Gaps

Even with a balanced diet, it’s easy to miss out on some essential nutrients. Multivitamins supplement act like a safety net, ensuring we get the vitamins and minerals we need. They are particularly beneficial for older adults and individuals with chronic illnesses who are at a higher risk for nutrient deficiencies. Research shows that about half of U.S. adults take dietary supplements, with multivitamins being the most popular. This helps reduce their risk for nutrient deficiencies, keeping them healthy and energetic.

Guarding Against Chronic Diseases

The question of whether multivitamins can prevent chronic diseases has shown mixed results. Some studies suggest that multivitamins help lower the risk for heart disease and certain cancers, while others find little to no benefit. Results depend on individual health and nutritional status. Well-nourished people may not see much of a difference, but for those at risk of deficiencies, such as adults and individuals with certain illnesses, multivitamins supplements matter. For instance, nearly half of older adults in the U.S. don’t get enough Vitamin D, which is crucial for bone health. Multivitamins can help fill this gap, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and other health issues.

Supporting Cognitive Health

Keeping our minds sharp as we age is crucial. Two previous studies from the COcoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS), a large- scale nationwide randomized trial, suggested a positive impact of daily multivitamin supplements on cognition. In their latest report published in March 2024, it was found that daily multivitamin supplements improve memory and slow cognitive aging in older adults. The results showed significant benefits of daily multivitamins compared to a placebo for both memory and global cognition.

Targeting Specific Health Conditions

Multivitamins can also help with specific conditions. For example, high doses of B vitamins have been linked to a reduced risk of stroke. Multivitamins can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases by ensuring adequate intake of essential nutrients, thereby supporting overall health and well-being. They offer a simple and accessible way to ensure you are getting enough of the nutrients that matter most and help prevent deficiencies.

Conclusion

Next time you’re looking at the supplement shelves, remember that these tiny multivitamin capsules might be the boost you need to keep living your best life.

Always talk to your physician for proper guidance on which multivitamin is best for your specific health condition.

References

Blumberg JB, Bailey RL, Sesso HD, Ulrich CM. The Evolving Role of Multivitamin/Multimineral Supplement Use among Adults in the Age of Personalized Nutrition. Nutrients. 2018;10(2):248. Published 2018 Feb 22. doi:10.3390/nu10020248

Third major study finds evidence that daily multivitamin supplements improve memory and slow cognitive aging in older adults. Mass General Brigham. Published Jan. 18, 2024.

As we age, maintaining our cognitive health becomes increasingly important. A new research confirms statistically significant benefits of a daily multivitamin versus placebo for both memory and global cognition.

A groundbreaking study from Mass General Brigham, published in January 2024, highlights the benefits of daily multivitamin and mineral supplements. This extensive study, part of the COcoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS), included over 5,000 participants and found that those who took multivitamins experienced significant improvements in memory and overall cognitive function compared to those who took a placebo. This suggests that multivitamins could help prevent memory loss and cognitive decline as we get older.

Expanding on this, a comprehensive review by Fekete and colleagues in 2023 examined various nutritional supplements and their effects on brain health. This review looked at vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other dietary supplements, highlighting their potential to enhance cognitive function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

Key Nutrients for Cognitive Health

B Vitamins: Vitamins B6, B9 (folate), and B12 are crucial for maintaining brain function. They help reduce levels of homocysteine, an amino acid linked to brain diseases when present in high amounts. Studies show that these vitamins can slow cognitive decline and improve brain function, especially in older adults.

Antioxidants: Vitamins C and E, selenium, and polyphenols like resveratrol and curcumin protect the brain from oxidative stress, which can damage brain cells and lead to cognitive decline. These antioxidants help maintain memory, concentration, and overall brain health.

Vitamin D: Known as the “sunshine vitamin,” vitamin D is essential for brain health. It supports blood flow to the brain and helps produce neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which regulate mood and cognitive functions.

Conclusion

The growing evidence supporting the benefits of nutritional supplements for brain health is promising. Daily multivitamins, along with targeted supplements of specific vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, offer a simple way to help maintain cognitive function and prevent cognitive decline as we age.

By incorporating these supplements into our daily routine, along with a healthy diet and lifestyle, we can better protect our brain health and enjoy a more vibrant, active life as we grow older. As research continues, the role of nutritional supplements in cognitive health will likely become even more significant, offering new ways to enhance mental well-being and overall quality of life.

For guidance on the benefits and proper use of multivitamins and minerals based on your specific health conditions or illnesses, it is always best to consult your physician.

References

1. Third major study finds evidence that daily multivitamin supplements improve memory and slow cognitive aging in older adults. [Mass General Brigham](https://www.massgeneralbrigham.org/en/about/newsroom/press-releases/multivitamins-improve-memory-and-slow-cognitive-aging). Published Jan. 18, 2024.

2. Fekete M, Lehoczki A, Tarantini S, et al. Improving Cognitive Function with Nutritional Supplements in Aging: A Comprehensive Narrative Review of Clinical Studies Investigating the Effects of Vitamins, Minerals, Antioxidants, and Other Dietary Supplements. Nutrients. 2023;15(24):5116. Published 2023 Dec 15. doi:10.3390/nu15245116

Fatty liver disease, also known as steatotic liver disease, is a growing global concern affecting a significant portion of the population. This condition is characterized by the  accumulation of excess fat in the liver cells which may result from metabolic conditions such as obesity and diabetes, as observed in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), or excessive alcohol intake, as seen in Alcoholic Liver Disease (ALD). Fatty liver is a major health concern due to its potential to progress to more severe liver diseases. The escalating prevalence underscores the critical need for awareness, early detection, and lifestyle modifications for prevention and effective management.

Understanding Symptoms and Diagnosis

Fatty liver often manifests subtly, with common symptoms including fatigue, weight loss, abdominal discomfort, weakness, and confusion. However, many individuals, especially those with mild cases, may not experience any symptoms at all. Diagnosis involves blood tests to measure liver enzymes such as SGPT and SGOT, imaging studies like abdominal ultrasound, CT scan or MRI and, in some cases, liver biopsies. Early detection is crucial in preventing the progression to more severe liver conditions. Regular check-ups with your doctor and monitoring for risk factors are recommended for early intervention.

Managing Fatty Liver

Foundational to managing fatty liver is the implementation of lifestyle modifications. This includes adopting a balanced diet low in saturated fats and sugars, engaging in regular physical activity to promote weight loss, and achieving a healthy body weight to reduce liver fat accumulation.

In terms of medical treatments, physicians may prescribe medications to address underlying comorbidities such as diabetes in cases of NAFLD. For ALD, recommendations include abstinence from alcohol and counseling. In advanced stages, liver-directed procedures or even liver transplantation may be necessary to address significant liver damage or failure.

The Role of Supplements in Supporting Liver Health

Silybin-phosphatidylcholine is emerging as a key supplement for liver health, combining two highly regarded components known for their benefits to the liver: silybin and phosphatidylcholine. Silybin, derived from silymarin, acts as a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, shielding liver cells from damage and promoting their regeneration. On the other hand, phosphatidylcholine plays a role in enhancing liver cell membrane integrity, aiding in fat metabolism to reduce fat accumulation, and boosting the hepatoprotective effects of silybin in treating fatty liver disease.

In addition to the multiple benefits derived from silybin and phosphatidylcholine, the combination of phosphatidylcholine with silybin significantly improves the absorption and bioavailability of silybin compared to traditional silymarin preparations.

Other essential vitamins and minerals that may be helpful for liver health include B-vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, and B12), Vitamin E, and Zinc. B vitamins support metabolic health, Vitamin E combats oxidative stress, and Zinc aids liver function and immune health. While clinical evidence suggests their efficacy, it is important to consult healthcare professionals before starting any supplement regimen due to safety considerations and potential interactions with medications.

Conclusion: Responsible Liver Health Management

Early recognition of the symptoms of fatty liver and seeking timely treatment are paramount. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, encompassing a balanced diet and regular exercise, can effectively prevent the onset of fatty liver disease. Supplements like Silybin-phosphatidylcholine, along with B-vitamins, Vitamin E, and Zinc, may offer valuable support under professional guidance. Engaging in regular health check-ups to monitor liver function can also be instrumental in early detection and management.

Livervitan: Liver Food Supplement

Livervitan Food Supplement Capsules are formulated with ingredients to support liver health including Silybin-Phosphatidylcholine, B vitamins, vitamin E, and Zinc. Livervitan incorporates Silymarin or Milk Thistle extract, recognized for its antioxidant properties and liver-protecting activities. Livervitan combines the benefits of Silybin with B-vitamins, Vitamin E, and Zinc, enhancing its support for liver function.

References

Department of Health & Human Services. (2007, November 28). Liver – fatty liver disease. Better Health Channel. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/liver-fatty-liver-disease#symptoms-of-fatty-liver-disease 

Fatty liver symptoms: Identifying the warning signs. Heritage Hospitals. (2024, January 4). https://heritagehospitals.com/blog/fatty-liver-symptoms/ 

Hallsworth, K., & Adams, L. A. (2019). Lifestyle modification in NAFLD/NASH: Facts and figures. JHEP reports : innovation in hepatology, 1(6), 468–479

Henderson, D. R., & McGrattan, D. J. (2020, October 8). Fatty liver disease: Causes and how to get rid of it. Netdoctor. https://www.netdoctor.co.uk/healthy-living/a3037/fatty-liver-disease/