Herbal Health

Vitamin DFunctions:   Helps in the absorption of calcium; essential for bones and teethSources:   Oily fish, liver, dairy products, egg yolk; made by the action of the sun on the skinCauses of  Deficiency: Poor diet, lack of sunlight Deficiency Signs   Soft bones (if severe in children development of bow legs), backache, aching limbs, muscle weakness, weak bones, fractures.Vitamin EFunctions:   Vital for the health of cells; slows down ageing; fights free radicalsSources:   Vegetable oils, wheatgerm, wholemeal cereal, green leafy vegetablesCauses of Deficiency:Absorption problems, poor diet Deficiency Signs Fatigue, poor skin. Severe deficiency: shortness of breath, palpitations, anaemia.Caution: some people have had withdrawal symptoms – cut down gradually.Vitamin KFunctions:Sources:Causes of Deficiency:Deficiency Signs and Symptoms:Necessary for blood to clot (often called anti-haemorrhagic vitamin); used after surgery and during labour to prevent blood lossGreen leafy vegetables, fruits, seeds, root, cow’s milk, yogurt, alfalfa;* also made in the bowelBowel troubles, especially chronic diarrhoeaTendency to bleed. Severe deficiency: bleeding from the intestine or urinary tract.*Alfalfa seeds are often sprouted and eaten in salads. An Oxford therapist has had considerable success for many years using alfalfa tablets or capsules for the Irritable Bowel Syndrome.*142\326\8*