

Vitamins may increase overall health and well-being and can be used in illnesses as well as in the prevention of illness.
Oral nutritional supplementation of acutely ill elderly hospitalized patients led to statistically significant benefits in quality of
life in a recent medical study (Gariballa 2007). Also published in 2007 was a study that looked at healthy volunteers. In
the study, patients with higher intakes of Vitamin C and Linoleic Acid and lower intakes of fats and carbohydrates had
better skin-aging appearance. The study concluded that healthy dietary behaviors may have additional benefit for skin
appearance in addition to other health outcomes in the population (Cosgrove 2007).
The B-Vitamins
The B-Vitamins are coenzymes involved in energy production throughout your body. They are important factors in the
metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. This group of vitamins is essential for normal nervous system
functioning and helps people that suffer from stress and lethargy. B-Vitamins also promote healthy relaxation and
increased energy levels.
Elderly patients have decreased absorption of B-Vitamins from their gut. Supplementation of these vitamins can be
extremely helpful. The B-Vitamins are usually best taken together, but can be taken individually for certain deficiencies.
B1 (Thiamine)- Thiamine plays a part in carbohydrate metabolism and proper nerve functioning. Thiamine supplements
can increase energy levels and may play a role in memory formation. Thiamine deficiency is commonly seen in people
with nutritional deficiencies and may present with generalized muscle weakness and confusion.
B2 (Riboflavin)- Riboflavin is an important for your body’s production of energy. Taking supplementation is associated
with increased energy levels, improved concentration, and mood stability.
B3 (Niacin)- Niacin essential for many processes throughout the body. It lowers cholesterol and triglyceride levels as well
as improving blood circulation. A Niacin deficiency can produced a syndrome termed “Pellagra” which manifests as a skin
rash, dementia, and diarrhea.
B6 (Pyridoxine)- A commonly used vitamin in the treatment of depression, Vitamin B6 is eventually made into Serotonin.
Tryptophan is the chemical that Vitamin B6 is broken down into before becoming serotonin. Tryptophan is naturally found
in many foods including turkey. Nutritional counseling is very important in patients with depression because the types of
food you eat may contribute to your mood. Pyridoxine has also been show to boost the immune system and provide some
arthritis relief. B6 is also an essential component in hemoglobin synthesis and red blood cell growth. A severe deficiency
or an excess of B6 can cause reversible nerve damage with symptoms that include numbness of feet and hands,
unsteady gait, and impaired reflexes.
B8 (Folic Acid)- Folic Acid is necessary in the prevention of neural tube birth defects. It acts as a component in DNA
synthesis and nervous system maintenance. Folic Acid supplementations may also decrease the risk of cardiovascular
disease.
B12 (Cobalamin) - Vitamin B12 deficiency is a common occurrence. It typically presents with neuropathies (nerve related
pain) and mental status changes. B12 is an important for metabolism of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Vitamin B12
can improve memory, concentration, and energy. There is also evidence that B12 may reduce the risk of heart disease.
Fat Soluble Vitamins (KADE)
Vitamin K is involved in both blood clotting and bone metabolism. Some blood thinning agents (Coumadin) are used to
block the effects of vitamin K on normal coagulation.
Vitamin A plays a part in healthy vision, skin health (used for cosmetic purposes), acne treatment, and works with the
immune system to prevent infection. Vitamin A has also been used as an anti-aging and anti-cancer supplement.
Vitamin D is essential for the body to effectively absorb dietary calcium. It helps the body deposit calcium in bones and
teeth. Vitamin D supplementation may prevent osteoporosis by increasing bone strength, and has a role in treating the
skin disorder, psoriasis.
Vitamin E is one of the body’s strongest antioxidants. Vitamin E protects cell membranes from damage produced by free
radicals. Vitamin E has also been shown to be beneficial in the prevention of heart disease and may reduce the risk of
heart attack. The antioxidant effects may help improve the immune system, assist in wound healing, and may reduce the
risk of cancer.
Calcium is essential in the formation and maintenance of your bones. Calcium is also involved in blood clotting, nerve
transmission, and muscle contraction. Recent research is showing that Calcium may play an important role in blood
pressure reduction, as well as reducing the risk of colon cancer.
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant useful in treating infections, increasing immunity, and improving wound healing by
increasing collagen formation. Vitamin C may also protect against the effects of stress and help to prevent cancer.
Flax Seed Oil is rich in Linolenic Acid, which is frequently deficient in our diets. These essential fatty acids are important
because they maintain cell wall and membrane integrity. They also may increase energy production and help regulate the
consumption of cholesterol and triglycerides. The benefits of flax seed oil may be due to the present of Lignans within the
flaxseed. These compounds have various pro- and anti-estrogenic properties. Flax seed oil may reduce cholesterol and
blood pressure, thereby decreasing the risk of stroke and heart attack. It also may improve the symptoms of inflammatory
conditions (eczema and psoriasis), and reduce the risk of cancer.
At Arizona Pain Specialists we practice a balanced approach to pain management. We believe that you are unique and
have unique needs. We believe in holistic pain management and strive to combine cutting-edge interventions and
alternative therapies that work. Schedule an appointment with Arizona Pain Specialists today to discuss a holistic plan
that includes vitamin supplementation.
Journal Articles
Dietary Supplementation and Quality of Life of Older Patients: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.
Gariballa S, Forster S. J Am Geriatr Soc. 2007 Oct 18
Dietary nutrient intakes and skin-aging appearance among middle-aged American women. Cosgrove MC, Franco OH,
Granger SP, Murray PG, Mayes AE. Am J Clin Nutr. 2007 Oct;86(4):1225-31
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Vitamins Supplements
by Nicole Berardoni M.D, Tory McJunkin M.D, and Paul Lynch M.D
People who limit their intake of high fat and salt foods, while
increasing fresh fruits and vegetables find that these dietary
changes improve their sense of well being. Many allopathic and
naturopathic physicians recommend healthy eating as well as
vitamin and mineral supplementation. These therapies are used
for health maintenance and disease prevention. Some vitamin
and mineral treatments are also used for specific deficiencies. At
Arizona Pain Specialists we are happy to offer counseling to our
patients on these topics as we believe it to be an important
service for the phoenix area.