 |
 |
 |
|
Also known as plaque psoriasis, it is defined as a common inflammatory skin condition characterized by frequent episodes of redness, itching, and thick, dry, silvery scales in discrete patches on the skin. It is most commonly seen on the trunk, elbows, knees, scalp, skin folds, or fingernails, but it may affect any or all parts of the skin. When the patches are on the scalp and in body fold areas, the skin is often itchy, but many people with psoriasis do not feel itchy at all.
It is known that the skin in psoriasis patches is growing much quicker than normal skin. In all of us, the epidermis (the outer layer of the skin) grows continuously from its outer surface, and a new layer is reformed each month. In psoriasis, the skin reforms a complete layer each 3-4 days - so that extra skin must shed in scales. This process is similar to healing of the epidermis after an injury - except that normal skin 'knows when to slow down and psoriasis skin does not'. However the actual chemical cause of psoriasis is not known. There have been many scientific experiments performed looking for the cause, but so far changes found seem to result from the rapid growth, and not to cause it.
The main problems caused by these patches are by shedding scales and by showing on the skin where they can be seen. Fortunately, psoriasis is unlikely to affect the face, and usually occurs on areas covered by clothes.
Most people with psoriasis find it a burden and a nuisance, but they are not stopped from enjoying life and doing their usual work. However, the condition may involve an important area of the body such as the hands - and this does affect the person's life, and their ability to work with their hands. The cost of caring for psoriasis can be considerable.
Psoriasis is not infectious in any way. It does not spread on the person who has it by infecting other areas, and it cannot be transferred to other people by any form of contact. Of course this does not stop people worrying about psoriasis if they see it, and fearing that it may infect them.
Incidence; Causes & Development
Age is not a factor, but it commonly starts between 15 to 35 years old. The extent and activity of psoriasis varies greatly just as with any other disease. Many people have patches on the scalp or elsewhere, but are not bothered by it and lead normal lives. Others have wider areas of skin involved. Studies in European communities show that about 2% of people are affected.
Psoriasis appears suddenly or gradually. It is characterized by frequent episodes of recurrences and remissions. It may be aggravated by injury or irritation (cuts, burns, rash, insect bites), and it may be severe in immunosuppressed people (such as with chemotherapy for cancer, or with AIDS) or those who have autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Sometimes (but certainly not always) psoriasis can run in families, and so it is likely that there are inherited properties causing a "tendency" to the condition. If a person has this tendency, an accident or sudden/severe nervous shock, or some germ infections, can set off the condition and make it appear on the skin.
Medications, viral or bacterial infections, poor digestion, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, lack of sunlight, overexposure to sunlight (sunburn), stress, general poor health, cold climate, and frequent friction on the skin are associated with flare-ups of psoriasis.
Signs & Symptoms
Psoriasis is described as being widespread, sharply demarcated, consisting of bright pink plaques and with overlying loose, silvery scale. It can be located:- Over joints and extensor surfaces of extremities
- On trunk, especially lower back and buttocks
- Palms and soles
- Scalp
- Umbilicus
- Nails
- Pitting of nail surface
- Separation of distal edge of nail from nail bed
- Accumulation of crumbly subungual debris
- Intergluteal: Eroded pinkness in crease between buttocks
- Penis: Pink macules or plaques on penis
- Large joints: Hyperkeratosis over elbows, knees, and ankles
- Tongue: Geographic tongue (rare)
Pruritus may be present.
Diagnosis & Tests
The appearance of the skin rash is enough for a trained doctor to make the diagnosis of psoriasis, without any tests. If there is any problem of general health, blood tests can be performed or X-rays can be taken, but these do not help the diagnosis of the condition itself. A piece of skin can be cut out (biopsy) and sent for pathology testing to be quite sure of the diagnosis.
Treatment & Prevention
There are many different conventional treatments, and the correct treatment depends on the activity and extent of the psoriasis, whether the person has fair or dark skin, and whether there are any other exacerbating problems present as well. Minimize flare-ups by avoiding any known aggravating factors.
A list of alternative considerations and treatments should include: Improving digestive function, improving liver function, improving bowel ecology, alcohol avoidance, fish oil and omega 3 supplementation, fasting, vegetarianism, food allergy elimination diets, sunshine exposure and vitamin D use, a high fiber diet, and stress reduction.
Tulsa Dermatologist Steven A. Smith, M.D. has successfully treated over 1,500 patients with Loma Psoriasis (nickel/ bromide/zinc), a non-prescription oral homeopathic-like medication. He reports 80% received some degree of noticeable improvement. Many have marked clearing - even in some of the more difficult cases.
Associated environmental factors
Psoriasis is suppressed by sun and humidity, and provoked by injury to skin (Koebner reaction), Streptococcal Pharyngitis or emotional upset.
Prognosis; Complications
On occasion, especially after a rapid onset which sometimes occurs in young people, it can settle or disappear. If their skin tans well, people can be free from psoriasis every summer, even though it comes back again in winter.
Psoriasis does not cause cancer or affect the blood or the circulation.
|
|
 |
|
 |
Signs, symptoms & indicators of Psoriasis:
Conditions that suggest Psoriasis: | | | | | Aging |  Cataracts
Premature/Signs of Aging |
Autoimmune |
Ankylosing Spondylitis |
Symptoms - Skin - Conditions |
 Psoriasis (confirmed)
Counter-indicators:
 Not having psoriasis (confirmed) |
Tumors, Malignant |
Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma | People who suffer from the skin disease psoriasis are at an increased risk for cancer, according to a study ending in 2003 that involved 108,000 patients. Specifically, study authors found that patients with psoriasis had a nearly three-fold increased rate of lymphoma. Previous research had found an association between psoriasis and lymphoma. Doctors from the University of Pennsylvania studied whether the rate of lymphoma in patients with a history of psoriasis is different from the rate of lymphoma in patients without psoriasis. After reviewing records, researchers found all the patients with psoriasis who had lymphoma were treated with medications consistent with psoriasis treatment. While researchers conclude there is an association between psoriasis and lymphoma, they feel additional research needs to be done to determine if this association is related to psoriasis severity, psoriasis treatment or an interaction between these risk factors. [Archives of Dermatology, 2003;139: pp.1425-9] |
|
| | | | |
Risk factors for Psoriasis: | | | | | Digestion | Dyspepsia / Poor Digestion| | Incomplete protein digestion or poor intestinal absorption of protein breakdown products can result in elevated levels of amino acids and polypeptides in the bowel. These are metabolized by bowel bacteria into several toxic compounds. The toxic metabolites of the amino acids arginine and ornithine are known as polyamines (e.g., putrescine, spermidine, and cadaverine) and have been shown to be increased in individuals with psoriasis. Polyamines contribute to the excessive rate of cell proliferation. Lowered skin and urinary levels of polyamines are associated with clinical improvement in psoriasis, so digestive function should be evaluated. |
|
Infections |
Yeast / Candida Infection| | A number of gut-derived toxins are implicated in the development of psoriasis including endotoxins (cell wall components of gram-negative bacteria), streptococcal products, Candida albicans, yeast compounds, and IgE or IgA immune complexes. These compounds increase the rate of skin cell proliferation dramatically. Candida albicans overgrowth in the intestines (chronic candidiasis) may play a major role in many cases. |
Bacterial Dysbiosis |
Inflammation |
Psoriatic Arthritis| | About one person in 20 suffering from psoriasis can get joint troubles, with a degree of arthritis affecting the back, or large or small joints of the body. This arthritis is rare, but worth looking into if you have psoriasis and an aching spine or joints. |
|
Organ Health |
Liver Detoxification / Support Requirement| | Correcting abnormal liver function is of great benefit in the treatment of psoriasis. The connection between the liver and psoriasis relates to one of the liver's basic tasks (filtering and detoxifying the blood). Psoriasis has been linked to the presence of several microbial byproducts in the blood. If the liver is overwhelmed by excessive levels of these toxins in the bowel, or if there is a decrease in the liver's detoxification ability, the toxin level in the blood will increase and the psoriasis will get worse. |
|
Symptoms - Nails |
History of deformed toenails| | Nail abnormalities are a possible symptom of psoriasis. |
|
| | | | |
Psoriasis suggests the following may be present: | | | | | Allergy |  Allergy to Foods (Hidden)| | Psoriasis patients have benefited from gluten-free and elimination diets. |
|
Digestion |
Dyspepsia / Poor Digestion| | Incomplete protein digestion or poor intestinal absorption of protein breakdown products can result in elevated levels of amino acids and polypeptides in the bowel. These are metabolized by bowel bacteria into several toxic compounds. The toxic metabolites of the amino acids arginine and ornithine are known as polyamines (e.g., putrescine, spermidine, and cadaverine) and have been shown to be increased in individuals with psoriasis. Polyamines contribute to the excessive rate of cell proliferation. Lowered skin and urinary levels of polyamines are associated with clinical improvement in psoriasis, so digestive function should be evaluated. |
|
Infections |
Bacterial Dysbiosis |
Inflammation |
Psoriatic Arthritis| | About one person in 20 suffering from psoriasis can get joint troubles, with a degree of arthritis affecting the back, or large or small joints of the body. This arthritis is rare, but worth looking into if you have psoriasis and an aching spine or joints. |
|
Nutrients |
EFA (Essential Fatty Acid) Type 3 Requirement |
Organ Health |
Liver Detoxification / Support Requirement| | Correcting abnormal liver function is of great benefit in the treatment of psoriasis. The connection between the liver and psoriasis relates to one of the liver's basic tasks (filtering and detoxifying the blood). Psoriasis has been linked to the presence of several microbial byproducts in the blood. If the liver is overwhelmed by excessive levels of these toxins in the bowel, or if there is a decrease in the liver's detoxification ability, the toxin level in the blood will increase and the psoriasis will get worse. |
|
| | | | |
Psoriasis can lead to:
Psoriasis could instead be: | | | | | Skin-Hair-Nails | Dandruff| | Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin disease in which skin cells replicate at a rapid rate. Although the symptoms of psoriasis - silvery scales covering reddened areas of the scalp - appear similar to dandruff, psoriasis is very different. New skin cells are produced about 10 times faster than normal, but the rate at which old cells are shed is unchanged. Live cells then accumulate and form the thick patches covered with flaking skin. |
|
| | | | |
Recommendations and treatments for Psoriasis: | | | | | Animal-based |  Thymic Factors| | Through his clinical experiences with thymic supplementation, Dr. Burgstiner said he observed 12 cases of psoriasis that were completely cured. |
|
Botanical |
Cayenne Pepper| | In a double blind study, application of a capsaicin cream to the skin helped relieve both the itching and the skin lesions in people with psoriasis. |
Glycolic Acid |
Diet |
 Therapeutic Fasting
Weight Loss| | Being overweight can make psoriasis more likely. During WWII, people who were on protein-deficient, calorie-deficient diets lost their psoriasis, which they regained when they went back on a normal diet. You can starve the psoriasis before you yourself suffer from starvation. |
Low/Decreased Fat Diet| | A "moderate" diet is best in coping with psoriasis, without an excess of rich, fatty, starchy or spicy foods, or alcohol. |
Alcohol Avoidance| | A "moderate" diet is best in coping with psoriasis, without an excess of rich, fatty, starchy or spicy foods, or alcohol. |
High/Increased Fiber Diet
Plant-Based Nutrition
Spicy Foods Avoidance| | A "moderate" diet is best in coping with psoriasis, without an excess of rich, fatty, starchy or spicy foods, or alcohol. |
|
Drug |
LDN - Low Dose Naltrexone |
Environmental |
Sunlight Exposure| | Summer sun is the best source of ultra-violet light, and many people find psoriasis settles very well in summer. Treatment in winter can be aided by artificial lamps: smaller lamps are usually not strong enough, but impulse type lamps, wall mounted "fluorescent lamp type" lamps, and larger "solarium" lamps are suitable. Unfortunately, some psoriasis sufferers are rather sensitive to sun light, and may not be improved with this treatment.
It is usually best to apply a tar or drithanol preparation daily, to be followed later by ultra-violet light treatment. |
|
Mineral |
Boron
Zinc| | Zinc orally or topically may be useful in the treatment of psoriasis. |
Crude Coal Tar| | It has been known for a long time that coal tar (2-5%) helps psoriasis and it is available as crude coal tar coal, tar lotion, and in refined forms incorporated into ready made creams, lotions and shampoos. In general, the more messy and smelly the tar preparation is, the better it is likely to work - so please be prepared to persevere with it.
The use of coal tar is declining as newer compounds effective against the different forms of psoriasis are replacing it. However, it still has the advantages of being low cost and causing less systemic toxicity as compared with more modern therapies.
A chemical similar to those found in tar may be used on its own - known as Dithranol or Anthralin. This must be used cautiously as it can irritate, but a strength and base can usually be found to suit and help the individual person's psoriasis. Tar treatments can lead to steady and effective control. It is usually best to apply a tar or drithanol preparation daily, to be followed later by ultra-violet light treatment. |
Colloidal Silver |
Nutrient |
EPA (eicosapentanoic acid)| | Several double-blind clinical studies have demonstrated that supplementing the diet with 10 to 12gm of EPA results in significant improvement. This would be equivalent to the amount of EPA in about 150gm of mackerel or herring. It must be kept in mind that the presence of DHA in fish oil may reduce the effectiveness of the EPA. A high EPA fish oil is recommended. |
TMG (Tri-methyl-glycine) |
Vitamins |
Vitamin D| | Vitamin D has been recognised for many years to improve some of the important abnormalities present in psoriasis skin, but ingestion of even only slightly above the daily recommended amount of Vitamin D can lead to problems with calcium metabolism in the body (possible kidney stones and irregular heart beats).
For this reason calcipotriol, a synthetic form of vitamin D, is used instead in ointment form. Calcipotriol has been found to also have the ability to improve psoriasis, but with minimum effects on internal calcium metabolism. It is available in a very greasy, ointment base for twice daily application. There is a risk of facial dermatitis if the ointment is used on the face or neck, so application is only recommended for the trunk and limbs, and it is important that the hands are thoroughly washed after application to avoid inadvertent transfer to the skin of the face. Comparative studies have shown that calcipotriol ointment is at least as effective as topical cortisones and dithranol in the treatment of stable plaque psoriasis. |
|
| | | | |
KEY | | Weak or unproven link | | | Strong or generally accepted link | | | Proven definite or direct link | | | Very strongly or absolutely counter-indicative | | | May do some good | | | Likely to help |
GLOSSARY
AIDS
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. An immune system deficiency disorder that suddenly alters the body's ability to defend itself. The AIDS virus invades the T4 helper/inducer lymphocytes and multiplies, causing a breakdown in the body's immune system, eventually leading to overwhelming infection and/or cancer, with ultimate death.
Allergy (Allergies)
Hypersensitivity caused by exposure to a particular antigen (allergen), resulting in an increased reactivity to that antigen on subsequent exposure, sometimes with harmful immunologic consequences.
Amino Acid (Amino Acids)
An organic acid containing nitrogen chemical building blocks that aid in the production of protein in the body. Eight of the twenty-two known amino acids are considered "essential," and must be obtained from dietary sources because the body can not synthesize them.
Arginine
A nonessential amino acid but may be essential for individuals with certain diseases or nutritional concerns. May promote the release of growth hormone. Involved in creatine synthesis, a compound that stores energy in muscle. Helps to remove ammonia from the body as part of the urea cycle.
Arthritis (Arthritic)
Inflammation of a joint, usually accompanied by pain, swelling, and stiffness, and resulting from infection, trauma, degenerative changes, metabolic disturbances, or other causes. It occurs in various forms, such as bacterial arthritis, osteoarthritis, or rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis, the most common form, is characterized by a gradual loss of cartilage and often an overgrowth of bone at the joints.
Autoimmune Disease (Autoimmune, Autoimmunity)
One of a large group of diseases in which the immune system turns against the body's own cells, tissues and organs, leading to chronic and often deadly conditions. Examples include multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus, Bright's disease and diabetes.
Bacteria (Bacterial, Bacterium)
Microscopic germs. Some bacteria are "harmful" and can cause disease, while other "friendly" bacteria protect the body from harmful invading organisms.
Biopsy
Removal of a sample of tissue from a living being for diagnosis. A pathologist later uses a microscope to look for certain features, such as cancer cells, in the sample. A fine-needle aspiration biopsy involves inserting a thin needle to remove a small amount of tissue, sometimes using CT or ultrasound to guide the needle. A core biopsy involves obtaining a sample of tissue with a thick needle or by inserting a thin, lighted tube (laparoscope) into a small incision in the abdomen. Another biopsy method is to remove tissue during an operation.
Calcium
The body's most abundant mineral. Its primary function is to help build and maintain bones and teeth. The body also needs calcium to carry nerve signals, keep the heart functioning, contract muscles, clot blood and maintain healthy skin. Calcium helps control blood acid-alkaline balance, plays a role in cell division, muscle growth and iron utilization, activates certain enzymes, and helps transport nutrients through cell membranes. Calcium also forms a cellular cement called ground substance that helps hold cells and tissues together.
Cancer
Refers to the various types of malignant neoplasms that contain cells growing out of control and invading adjacent tissues, which may metastasize to distant tissues.
Candidiasis (Candida)
Infection of the skin or mucous membrane with any species of candida, usually Candida albicans. The infection is usually localized to the skin, nails, mouth, vagina, bronchi, or lungs, but may invade the bloodstream. It is a common inhabitant of the GI tract, only becoming a problem when it multiplies excessively and invades local tissues. Growth is encouraged by a weakened immune system, as in AIDS, or with the prolonged administration of antibiotics. Vaginal symptoms include itching in the genital area, pain when urinating, and a thick odorless vaginal discharge. Candidiasis is also known as: Candida; Candida albicans; Candida Related Complex; Chronic Candida Syndrome; (Chronic) Systemic Candidiasis; Monilia; Candidiasis Hypersensitivity Syndrome; Candidosis; (Chronic) Mucocutaneous Candidosis; Thrush (oral or vaginal); Moniliasis; Polysystematic Candidiasis.
Cataract (Cataracts)
A steadily worsening disease of the eye in which the lens becomes cloudy as a result of the precipitation of proteins. Most cataracts are caused by the functions of the body breaking down. Eye trauma, such as from a puncture wound, may also result in cataracts.
Chemotherapy
A treatment of disease by any chemicals. Used most often to refer to the chemical treatments used to combat cancer cells. Chemotherapy is usually given in cycles: a treatment period followed by a recovery period, then another treatment period, and so on. Most anticancer drugs are given by injection into a blood vessel (IV); some are given by mouth. Chemotherapy is a systemic therapy, meaning that the drugs enter the bloodstream and travel throughout the body. Usually, a patient has chemotherapy as an outpatient (at the hospital, at the doctor's office, or at home). However, depending on which drugs are given and the patient's general health, a short hospital stay may be needed.
Chronic (Chronicity)
Usually referring to chronic illness: Illness extending over a long period of time.
Dermatitis
A general term used to refer to eruptions or rashes on the skin.
DHA
Docosahexanoic Acid. A metabolite of the omega-3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid.
Discharge (Discharges)
A secretion, of pus for example, from a wound or bodily orifice.
Distal
Anatomically located further away from a point of reference, such as an origin or a point of attachment.
EPA
Environmental Protection Agency. Also: Eicosapentanoic Acid. A metabolite of the omega-3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid.
Epidermis
The outer layers of the skin, made up of an outer, dead portion and a deeper, living portion. Epidermal cells gradually move outward to the skin surface, changing as they go, until they become flakes.
Extensor (Extensors)
A muscle that opens a joint.
Geographic tongue
Also known as benign migratory glossitis: A benign condition that occurs in up to 3% of the general population. Most often, patients are asymptomatic; however, some patients report increased sensitivity to hot and spicy foods.
Gram (gm, gms, Gramme, Grammes, Grams)
A metric unit of weight, there being approximately 28 grams in one ounce.
Hyperkeratosis
Thickening of the skin.
IgE (Immunoglobulin E)
Immunoglobulin E is a type of antibody produced by IgE plasma cells. These are specialized B-cell lymphocytes that make free-floating antibodies for what is termed humoral resistance. IgE is not made to be specific against only one antigen, like other gamma globulins, but instead can bind with a number of dangerous proteins. IgE travels to mast cells, sticks to their surfaces, and when antigens get stuck to the IgE, the mast cells secrete inflammatory compounds such as histamine. Since IgE is a generalist, coded for a number of potential toxins, it can decide for example that grass pollen and cat dander are antigens... and you have an allergy. Elevated production of IgE is often inherited, which is why allergies run in a family.
Immunoglobulin A (IgA)
Supports mucosal immunity.
Intergluteal
Between the buttocks.
Kidney Stone (Kidney Gravel, Kidney Stones)
A stone (concretion) in the kidney. If the stone is large enough to block the tube (ureter) and stop the flow of urine from the kidney, it must be removed by surgery or other methods. Also called Renal Calculus. Symptoms usually begin with intense waves of pain as a stone moves in the urinary tract. Typically, a person feels a sharp, cramping pain in the back and side in the area of the kidney or in the lower abdomen. Sometimes nausea and vomiting occur. Later, pain may spread to the groin. The pain may continue if the stone is too large to pass; blood may appear in the urine and there may be the need to urinate more often or a burning sensation during urination. If fever and chills accompany any of these symptoms, an infection may be present and a doctor should be seen immediately.
Lesion (Lesions)
Any damage to tissue structure or function; an abnormal change in body tissue caused by disease or injury. A scar is a lesion, as is cancer, a stomach ulcer or a pimple.
Liver (Hepatic)
The largest and one of the most complex organs of the body, the liver is responsible for much of the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. It is the site of much of the body's detoxification. It is connected very closely with digestion and the regulation of blood sugar, among many other functions. Found behind the ribs on the right side of the abdomen, it has many important functions such as removing harmful material from the blood, making enzymes and bile that help digest food, and converting food into substances needed for life and growth. Hepatic: Pertaining to the liver.
Lymphoma (Lymphomas)
Any tumor of the lymphatic tissues.
Metabolism (Metabolic, Metabolize, Metabolizes, Metabolizing)
The chemical processes of living cells in which energy is produced in order to replace and repair tissues and maintain a healthy body. Responsible for the production of energy, biosynthesis of important substances, and degradation of various compounds. Also defined as the sum total of changes in an organism in order to achieve a balance (homeostasis): Catabolic burns up, anabolic stores and builds up; the sum of their work is metabolism.
Metabolite (Metabolites)
Any product (foodstuff, intermediate, waste product) of metabolism.
Ornithine
A nonessential amino acid but may be essential for individuals with certain diseases or nutritional concerns. Manufactured from arginine and functions similarly to arginine, it stimulates the human growth hormone and is made by the digestion of proteins and some compounds made from arginine. The major difference between the two is that ornithine enters cell mitochondria. Arginine does not.
Pathology (Pathologist)
Disease, particularly one with clear and obvious changes in structure or function; the study of same.
Pharyngitis
Inflammation of the pharynx, either from irritation or infection. A sore throat.
Protein (Proteins)
Compounds composed of hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen present in the body and in foods that form complex combinations of amino acids. Protein is essential for life and is used for growth and repair. Foods that supply the body with protein include animal products, grains, legumes, and vegetables. Proteins from animal sources contain the essential amino acids. Proteins are changed to amino acids in the body.
Pruritus
Severe itching, often of undamaged skin.
Psoriasis
An inherited skin disorder in which there are red patches with thick, dry silvery scales. It is caused by the body making too-many skin cells. Sores may be anywhere on the body but are more common on the arms, scalp, ears, and the pubic area. A swelling of small joints may go along with the skin disease.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
A long-term, destructive connective tissue disease that results from the body rejecting its own tissue cells (autoimmune reaction).
Spondylitis
Inflammation of one or more vertebrae.
Subungual
Beneath a fingernail or toenail.
Topical
Most commonly 'topical application': Administration to the skin.
Vegetarian (Lacto-Ovo-Vegetarian, Vegetarianism, Vegetarians)
A person who consumes no meat, fish or fowl (chicken, turkey, etc.), but who may consume animal products such as dairy products (milk, cheese, butter, etc.), eggs or honey.
Vitamin D
A fat-soluble vitamin essential to one's health. Regulates the amount of calcium and phosphorus in the blood by improving their absorption and utilization. Necessary for normal growth and formation of bones and teeth. For Vitamin D only, 1mcg translates to 40 IU.
X-rays (X-ray)
High-energy radiation used to take pictures of areas inside the body.
Yeast
A single-cell organism that may cause infection in the mouth, vagina, gastrointestinal tract, and any or all bodily parts. Common yeast infections include candidiasis and thrush.
Zinc
An essential trace mineral. The functions of zinc are enzymatic. There are over 70 metalloenzymes known to require zinc for their functions. The main biochemicals in which zinc has been found to be necessary include: enzymes and enzymatic function, protein synthesis and carbohydrate metabolism. Zinc is a constituent of insulin and male reproductive fluid. Zinc is necessary for the proper metabolism of alcohol, to get rid of the lactic acid that builds up in working muscles and to transfer it to the lungs. Zinc is involved in the health of the immune system, assists vitamin A utilization and is involved in the formation of bone and teeth.
Last updated: May 04, 2008
|
 |
|
|
