Vitamin testing is important for many reasons. First and foremost, you may suffer from certain physical symptoms and you may ask your physician to perform a vitamin test. If your blood level of vitamin D is low, this could lead to: Deficiency in vitamin D. Also, if your level of potassium is low, which can lead to: High potassium levels can decrease blood pressure and increase heart rate.
Vitamin A is found in retinol (a form of beta carotene), which is found in various animal products. Vitamin A supplements are often recommended to patients with dry skin or who have a lack of appetite. In the past, patients were encouraged to take Vitamin A intravenously or via an injection. Currently, there are blood tests that can indicate the proper dosage of Vitamin A for the patient’s needs.
Vitamin E is found in most vegetable oils, as well as nuts, seeds, and whole grains. This powerful antioxidant acts as a neutralizer. It has been linked to a decreased risk of certain cancers, such as colon, breast, and prostate cancer. Some vitamin E has been shown to also help improve the absorption of other vitamins and minerals.
Vitamin K helps maintain healthy bones and joints. Vitamin K is also one of the major compounds in which DNA is formed, so a vitamin K test may indicate vitamin K toxicity. When a patient has liver cancer, for example, a blood test will detect elevated levels of Vitamin K in the blood stream.
Vitamin C is found in most fruits, vegetables, and other foods. Vitamin C can help prevent infections, and it has some effect on the absorption of iron and calcium. However, there is some evidence that excessive consumption of Vitamin C may cause certain types of cancers. Vitamin C deficiencies often lead to weakening of the immune system. These are the main reasons why doctors recommend vitamin C tests.
Vitamin D is essential to maintain a healthy bone structure, along with strong teeth and healthy skin. People who suffer from Vitamin D deficiency may have negative health issues, because excess Vitamin D can cause the absorption of essential fatty acids and phosphorus to be reduced, leaving the patient prone to infections. Vitamin D deficiency can also lead to poor vision and weakening of the immune system. A Vitamin D test is usually performed to monitor patients’ needs.
Vitamin K is found in milk and other dairy products, as well as egg yolks. Milk and egg allergies are common in some people, and these vitamin deficiencies can lead to other health problems. Vitamin K is believed to slow the absorption of carbohydrates in the intestines, which can increase the risk of developing diseases such as celiac disease. While there have been few studies about the effect of Vitamin K on blood glucose levels, one study indicated that increased vitamin K consumption decreased the risk of diabetes. This is probably due to the role that Vitamin K plays in intestinal epithelial cell turnover.
Iron is an important element in many bodily functions, including blood clotting and growth. It is necessary for many metabolic reactions, including the production of hemoglobin and DNA. Deficiencies of iron can contribute to a number of serious health problems, including anemia, fatigue, anorexia, high cholesterol levels and cancer. Iron deficiencies are usually accompanied by anemia, so it is important to monitor anemia and the levels of vitamins C and K in the patient’s blood.
Calcium and phosphorus are two other minerals that are often taken for granted. Children do not get enough vitamin D from the foods they eat, so they need to take a supplement to meet their daily requirements. Pregnant women also need to take extra calcium and phosphorus to prepare their bodies for giving birth. A Vitamin K deficiency can weaken the immune system and make it more prone to infections and disease.
The symptoms of Vitamin K toxicity include anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy. Vitamin K toxicity can be corrected through the use of Vitamin K supplements. People who are lactose intolerant or allergic should avoid supplements of Vitamin K. However, there are certain vitamins K that are actually good for the body and these include Kojic acid, Koeze Oile and Milk Thistle.
Overall, a healthy diet containing a variety of foods rich in vitamins and minerals is a sure way to maintain good overall health. A balanced diet and regular exercise are also beneficial. It is always advisable to take a Vitamin Test once a year to monitor one’s vitamin and mineral deficiency levels as well as to prevent any diseases and ailments. Remember to include fruits and vegetables in your meals as well as fish in your diet as these contain essential vitamins that can improve one’s well-being.