Vitamin C supplements

This trusty old “cure” for the common cold is actually a lot more important than we realise. Vitamin C is vital in the development of a protein which gives structure to bones, cartilage muscle and blood vessels and it also aids in the absorption if iron. Pretty important really!
This is why it is so essential to recognise the signs of a vitamin C deficiency. Some of the more well known signs of Vitamin C deficiency include weakness, repeated infections, bruising easily, swollen gums and nosebleeds. Foods that can be found rich in vitamin C are fresh fruit and vegetables, especially citrus fruits like oranges, lemons and grapefruit as well as vegetables like spinach. If citrus fruits aren’t quite to your liking, fruits like strawberries, blueberries and raspberries are always a good alternative. Unfortunately, the storage and cooking of these foods will often reduce the content of vitamin C within them.
Vitamin C is a fantastic immune system booster with a proven modulating action on white blood cells. Not only can it do this, but vitamin C also has an antihistamine activity which can be used to treat allergies such as hay fever, act as a powerful antioxidant to help regenerate vitamin E and also be used to make collagen which is used to form the structures of hair, skin and nails.
When looking to choose a multivitamin that contains vitamin C, the best option is to go for one that contains calcium ascorbate. The alternative is usually the more acidic forms like ascorbic acid which can prevent minerals from the tablet or capsule from being absorbed. When you read the label of the multivitamin, you’ll often see that bioflavonoids or hesperidin are also included – this is to help with vitamin C absorption once the tablet has been consumed.
Aside from a multivitamin, vitamin C can also be found in a chewable tablet form on its own, which is quite pleasant to the tastebuds. Many children even see taking vitamin C chewable tablets as a treat because they are so enjoyable!
In many cases, the right levels of vitamin C intake can be achieved with a healthy, balanced diet. However, if for any reason that your diet or lifestyle does not permit this, vitamin C supplements can be easily purchased from a range of great vitamin retailers. For more information on Vitamin C featured in Space Vitamin products click here.

Vitamin D supplement

Vitamin D plays a vital role in assisting the body to absorb calcium both from diet and supplements.  And without calcium, the body would struggle to develop and maintain healthy bones, muscles and teeth.

Our main source of vitamin D is actually produced by the body itself.  When UV radiation in sunlight hits our skin, it reacts with a cholesterol-like substance, thus creating vitamin D. Anecdotally, very small amounts of the nutrient can be found in some food and drinks, but it is rarely enough to provide the levels that the body needs.  Some people get plenty of vitamin D through exposure to the sun from regular outdoor activities.
Many experts say that although sun exposure is important so that the body can produce vitamin D, it is always essential to cover up the body when staying outside for long periods of time to avoid the development of dangerous skin cancers. Unfortunately, many people have very minimal sun exposure, which will often result in low vitamin D levels and a need for vitamin D supplements. The best vitamin D supplements in Australia are ones derived from natural sources.
A lack of vitamin D and calcium can often increase the risk of developing a range of musculoskeletal conditions, such as:
• Rickets in children – soft, weakened and deformed bones, often coupled with poor or slowed muscle development
• Neonatal hypocalcaemia – insufficient calcium in the blood of babies who have not had enough vitamin D while in the womb
• Osteoporosis – a condition commonly found in adults, especially women after menopause, which develops symptoms of weak, fragile bones
People at greater risk of vitamin D deficiency are:
• Babies born to women with a vitamin D deficiency
• Children and adults with minimal sun exposure
• People who cover the majority of their skin for religious or cultural reasons
• People who are confined to the indoors - like the ill or elderly
• People with naturally very dark skin
• Shift workers
Experts have supposed that eight out of ten people in the abovementioned categories would suffer from low vitamin D levels.  In most cases, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional to see if it is necessary to take vitamin D supplements. A simple blood test can assess your levels.

As previously mentioned, there are some foods and drinks that vitamin D can be found in.  Although these levels are not likely to be enough to maintain the body’s vitamin D requirements, these foods and drinks also contain calcium which is essential in maintaining strong and healthy bones.
Some of the foods that contain both vitamin D and calcium are:
• Milk with added vitamin D
• Soy milk and other drinks with added vitamin D
• Margarine
• Eggs
• Liver
• Fish such as tuna, salmon, sardines, herring and mackerel.
If you feel that you could be at risk of a vitamin D deficiency, it is always best to discuss it with your doctor or healthcare professional.  They will be able to assess the problem properly and ensure that your vitamin D levels are maintained.
For more information on the natural form of Vitamin D featured in Space Vitamin products click here.