Health and Body check

Copper is an essential metal that plays a role in numerous body processes, including cellular respiration, ATP production, antioxidant processes and iron metabolism. It supports the development of nerve, connective and bone tissue, plays a role in the immune system and in the formation of red blood cells. A copper deficiency can be caused by certain diseases, pregnancy or the intake of other minerals (such as iron and zinc). Symptoms of deficiency include anemia, osteoporosis, neurological symptoms and weakening of the immune system. Food sources: liver, fishery products, dried nuts. Meat, eggs, milk and dairy products tend to contain little copper, while wholemeal products and pulses contain small amounts. The copper content in drinking water is generally low, but can increase due to corrosion of pipes

Zinc is an essential (vital) mineral for the body that plays a role in many cellular processes. It supports gene regulation, is involved in antioxidant processes and plays a key role in cell division, especially in fast-growing tissues such as the gastrointestinal tract and the immune system. Zinc is also important for brain function and the production of insulin. It helps regulate thyroid function. A lack of zinc can lead to skin problems, growth retardation and immune and nervous system disorders. Food sources: meat (especially liver and beef), eggs, fish, cereals, milk, wheat bran, dried pulses, dried nuts and certain cereals.

Selenium is a vital mineral found in many of our body's enzymes. It protects us from oxidation damage, supports the function of our thyroid gland and strengthens the immune system. In particular, it is involved in the conversion of a certain thyroid hormone. A lack of selenium can make our blood cells more susceptible to damage, impair normal thyroid function and weaken the immune system. Food sources: offal, fish products, lamb, pork, meat in general, dried nuts such as cashews, pistachios and nuts. The selenium content in drinking water varies depending on the soil conditions

Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is an enzyme that converts harmful oxygen molecules in the body into harmless hydrogen peroxide. This helps to reduce oxidative damage in the cells. The enzyme is important for combating inflammatory conditions, cardiovascular diseases and aging processes. It plays an important role in general well-being and helps to maintain balance in the body, especially in older people, smokers and athletes

Glutathione peroxidase (GPX) is a protective enzyme in our bodies that helps convert harmful compounds like hydrogen peroxide into water. There are different forms of this enzyme that can break down different harmful substances. GPX is crucial for the defense against cell damage caused by free radicals and prevents damage to our cell membranes through peroxidation. The effectiveness of this enzyme is closely linked to the level of selenium in the body

Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that is responsible for transporting oxygen in the blood. A small portion of hemoglobin can bind with glucose, creating glycated hemoglobin. When blood glucose levels are elevated, the proportion of this glycated hemoglobin also increases. By measuring HBA-1c, a form of glycated hemoglobin, the average blood glucose level over the last 2–3 months can be determined.

Cholesterol is an important lipid that serves as a precursor for steroid hormones, bile acids and vitamin D in the body. Elevated blood cholesterol levels increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and atheroma formation (atheroma formation refers to the formation of deposits that appear as plaques in the artery walls). Food sources: Cholesterol is mainly found in animal source foods such as egg yolk, offal, cured meats and cheese.

LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) are transporters of cholesterol in the blood. If there is too much LDL in the blood, it can lead to deposits in the arteries and increase the risk of heart disease.

HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) are ‘good’ lipoproteins that transport cholesterol from the tissues to the liver, prevent deposits in the blood vessels, protect LDL from oxidation and have an anti-inflammatory effect. This reduces the cardiovascular risk.

Triglycerides are molecules formed by the combination of glycerol and fatty acids. High triglyceride levels increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and inflammatory conditions in the body. Factors such as obesity, a sedentary lifestyle and an unhealthy diet can lead to increased triglyceride levels.

A blood fat that can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease because it helps to deposit cholesterol in the blood vessels and inhibits the dissolution of blood clots. Standard cholesterol-lowering therapies have little effect on it, and its concentration in the blood is strongly influenced by genetics.

LDL damaged by free radicals in the blood. These damaged LDL can cause more cholesterol to build up in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease.

Excess uric acid can lead to gout, kidney stones, cardiovascular disease and other problems. Risk factors for high uric acid levels include obesity, a diet high in purines*, diabetes, diuretics, hypothyroidism and alcohol consumption. A low purine diet includes foods such as cereals, dairy products, fruit and vegetables. *Purine-rich foods are foods that contain high amounts of purines. Purines are natural chemical compounds that are broken down in the body into uric acid.

An amino acid produced during methionine metabolism. High homocysteine levels in the blood increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as arteriosclerosis, heart attacks and strokes. The concentration of homocysteine can serve as an indicator of cardiovascular risk and other factors such as gender, age, blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Supplementation with folic acid, betaine and vitamin B12 can help to normalize homocysteine levels.

A protein in HDL. Low apo A1 levels increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, especially if HDL levels are also low. Various factors such as smoking, diabetes and medication can lower apo A1 levels, while physical activity and weight loss can increase them.

Apo B levels tend to reflect the amount of LDL and may be a better indicator of cardiovascular risk than LDL alone in the presence of several risk factors. Various factors such as diet, diabetes and medications can increase apo B levels, while weight loss and other conditions can lower them.

TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) is produced in the pituitary gland and regulates the activity of the thyroid gland, in particular the release of Ft4 and Ft3 into our blood. The thyroid gland mainly releases Ft4, which is converted into active Ft3 in the body. If there are too few thyroid hormones in the blood, more TSH is produced to stimulate the thyroid gland to produce more hormones, and vice versa. Too much thyroid hormone causes hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland), too little causes hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland). Hyperthyroidism symptoms include palpitations and weight loss, while hypothyroidism can lead to weight gain and fatigue

Zinc is an essential (vital) mineral for the body that plays a role in many cellular processes. It supports gene regulation, is involved in antioxidant processes and plays a key role in cell division, especially in fast-growing tissues such as the gastrointestinal tract and the immune system. Zinc is also important for brain function and the production of insulin. It helps regulate thyroid function. A lack of zinc can lead to skin problems, growth retardation and immune- and nervous-system disorders. Food sources: meat (especially liver and beef), eggs, fish, cereals, milk, wheat bran, dried pulses, dried nuts and certain cereals

Selenium is a vital mineral found in many of our body’s enzymes. It protects us from oxidation damage, supports the function of our thyroid gland and strengthens the immune system. In particular, it is involved in the conversion of a certain thyroid hormone. A lack of selenium can make our blood cells more susceptible to damage, impair normal thyroid function and weaken the immune system. Food sources: offal, fish products, lamb, pork, meat in general, dried nuts such as cashews, pistachios and nuts. The selenium content in drinking water varies depending on the soil conditions

Creatinine in urine is an indicator of kidney and heart function

Iodine is a vital trace element that is primarily necessary for thyroid hormones and therefore for the function of the thyroid gland. A lack of iodine can lead to various health problems such as gout, impaired growth and brain development. Children and pregnant women in particular have an increased need for iodine. Although iodine deficiency prevention programs are in place, many Europeans are not adequately supplied with iodine. Food sources: fishery products, especially marine mollusks, eggs, milk and dairy products, meat and iodized salt. The content in cereals, fruit, vegetables and pulses is low, but some algae have a very high iodine content. The content in drinking water can vary

AbTG stands for antibodies against thyroglobulin, a protein that serves as a precursor for the thyroid hormones T3 and T4. The presence of AbTG can indicate thyroid disease or other autoimmune diseases

AbTPO are antibodies directed against the enzyme thyroid peroxidase. This enzyme plays a role in the conversion of thyroglobulin into the thyroid hormones T4 and T3. The presence of AbTPO can be an indication of a thyroid disorder or other autoimmune diseases.

Vitamin D is essential for bone metabolism as it regulates calcium and phosphate levels. It also supports muscle function and plays a role in the immune system. A lack of vitamin D can lead to bone diseases such as osteoporosis, muscle weakness and other health problems. Adequate vitamin D intake can reduce the risk of falls in older people. Although our bodies produce vitamin D through exposure to sunlight, older people and those with certain medical conditions or taking medication are more at risk of a deficiency. Food sources: cod liver oil, fatty fish (herring, fresh tuna, salmon), liver (pork), eggs, cheese and fortified foods such as dairy products.

Parathyroid hormone is a hormone produced by the parathyroid glands and plays a key role in regulating calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood. It acts directly on the bones and kidneys and indirectly on the intestines to stabilize the calcium level in the blood. When blood calcium levels are low, more PTH is released, which promotes the release of calcium from the bones and thus increases the risk of bone demineralization. Blood levels of parathyroid hormone should always be considered in conjunction with calcium levels to check the proper functioning of the calcium regulatory system.

Calcium is the main mineral in the human body. Most of it is stored in the bones and gives them stability. The remaining calcium supports various vital functions, including muscle contraction, nerve transmission and blood clotting. Calcium requirements vary according to age and certain phases of life such as pregnancy or breastfeeding. A lack of calcium can lead to various symptoms, from tingling in the fingers to serious bone problems such as osteoporosis. Too much calcium can also cause health problems, including constipation, kidney problems and impaired absorption of iron and zinc.

Phosphorus is an important mineral in the body, with much of it stored in the bones. It is not only important for bones, but also for many other functions in the body, such as energy production and DNA. A lack of phosphorus can lead to bone problems such as osteoporosis, especially in adults. Low levels of phosphorus in the blood can also lead to various symptoms, including bone pain and neurological problems.

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found in many body tissues and is particularly concentrated in bone and liver. It is produced by osteoblasts and plays a central role in the bone mineralization process. Bone-specific ALP measures bone regeneration and is used in the diagnosis and monitoring of conditions such as osteomalacia and osteoporosis, as well as other conditions with increased bone remodeling. It is an important tool to assess bone metabolism and response to certain treatments.

C-terminal telopeptide (CTX) is derived from the degradation of type I collagen, which forms the bulk of the organic bone matrix. When this type of collagen is degraded, CTX fragments are released into the bloodstream. The amount of CTX provides information about the current bone turnover and thus indications of bone metabolism.

P1NP is a product resulting from the cleavage of procollagen, which is produced by osteoblasts during bone secretion. An increased level of P1NP in the blood indicates increased bone remodeling and thus serves as a marker for bone formation.

5-HIAA is a major breakdown product of serotonin, often referred to as the 'good mood hormone'. Although the majority of serotonin is produced in the gut, it plays a central role in our brain by influencing our mood, satiety and sleep-wake cycle. Low serotonin levels can be associated with mood disorders such as depression. The amino acid tryptophan serves as the starting material for serotonin production.

HVA is a breakdown product of dopamine, an important neurotransmitter produced from the amino acid tyrosine. Dopamine is responsible for feelings of physical and mental well-being and influences heart rate and blood pressure. A lack of dopamine can lead to mood swings such as apathy and depression.

VMA is a major metabolite of adrenaline and noradrenaline, two key stress hormones that play a role in the 'fight or flight' response. These hormones help the body prepare for stressful situations by increasing heart rate and blood pressure and channeling energy to vital organs. Optimal hormone levels support mental alertness, learning, sociability and sex drive. However, too low levels can lead to listlessness, depression and reduced sex drive.

Creatinine in urine is an indicator of kidney and heart function.

5-HIAA is a major breakdown product of serotonin, often referred to as the 'good mood hormone'. Although the majority of serotonin is produced in the gut, it plays a central role in our brain by influencing our mood, satiety and sleep-wake cycle. Low serotonin levels can be associated with mood disorders such as depression. The amino acid tryptophan serves as the starting material for serotonin production.

HVA is a breakdown product of dopamine, an important neurotransmitter produced from the amino acid tyrosine. Dopamine is responsible for feelings of physical and mental well-being and influences heart rate and blood pressure. A lack of dopamine can lead to mood swings such as apathy and depression.

VMA is a major metabolite of adrenaline and noradrenaline, two key stress hormones that play a role in the 'fight or flight' response. These hormones help the body prepare for stressful situations by increasing heart rate and blood pressure and channeling energy to vital organs. Optimal hormone levels support mental alertness, learning, sociability and sex drive. However, too low levels can lead to listlessness, depression and reduced sex drive.

Creatinine in urine is an indicator of kidney and heart function.

Serotonin, often referred to as the ‘good mood hormone,’ is mainly produced in the gut and to a lesser extent in the brain. It influences intestinal motility and plays a central role in mood regulation, the feeling of hunger and the sleep-wake cycle. A lack of serotonin can lead to depression, anxiety, aggression and changes in appetite, sexual and cognitive function.

Dopamine, made from the amino acid tyrosine, is a neurotransmitter that is active in the areas of the brain that control emotions and feelings of reward, and promotes feelings of pleasure. It can also influence heart rate and blood pressure. Low levels of dopamine can lead to lack of motivation, apathy, depression, stress and poor diet.

Noradrenaline, also known as norepinephrine, is a hormone and neurotransmitter that is produced in response to intense physical or psychological stimuli. It plays a central role in the body’s ‘fight or flight’ response and controls various functions such as blood vessel tone, intestinal activity, insulin production and glycogen breakdown in the liver. Noradrenaline also influences blood pressure, heart rate and blood flow to various organs. It can be converted into adrenaline in the adrenal medulla and thus has a direct influence on many physical processes.

Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is a hormone and neurotransmitter that is produced by the adrenal medulla and acts in the sympathetic nervous system. It prepares the body for dangerous situations or stress, a reaction known as the ‘fight or flight’ response. While it inhibits the gastrointestinal tract and sexual arousal, it promotes airway dilation and increases heart rate, blood pressure and energy supply to major organs. Adrenaline affects almost all body tissues and at optimal concentrations it promotes waking, learning, social interactions and sex drive. However, too low concentrations can cause symptoms such as withdrawal, demotivation, depression and reduced libido.

An iron deficiency can impair physical performance, weaken the immune system and have a negative impact on the nervous system. An iron deficiency goes through various stages: first the iron reserves are depleted, then there are signs of an insufficient iron supply in the body and in the final stage anemia can occur as the hemoglobin concentration in the blood drops. Food sources: Iron-rich foods include offal, dried legumes, meat (especially red meat), fish products, dried and oily fruits, whole-grain products, leafy vegetables and chicken eggs. Iron from meat and fish (heme iron) is more bioavailable than iron from plant sources and dairy products (non-heme iron).

Iodine is a vital trace element that is primarily necessary for thyroid hormones and thus for the function of the thyroid gland. A lack of iodine can lead to various health problems such as gout, impaired growth and brain development. Children and pregnant women in particular have an increased need for iodine. Although iodine deficiency prevention programs are in place, many Europeans are not adequately supplied with iodine. Food sources: fishery products, especially marine mollusks, eggs, milk and dairy products, meat and iodized salt. The content in cereals, fruit, vegetables and pulses is low, but some algae have a very high iodine content. The content in drinking water can vary.

Creatinine in urine is an indicator of kidney and heart function.

Selenium is a vital mineral found in many of our body’s enzymes. It protects us from oxidation damage, supports the function of our thyroid gland and strengthens the immune system. In particular, it is involved in the conversion of a certain thyroid hormone. A lack of selenium can make our blood cells more susceptible to damage, impair normal thyroid function and weaken the immune system. Food sources: offal, fish products, lamb, pork, meat in general, dried nuts such as cashews, pistachios and nuts. The selenium content in drinking water varies depending on the soil conditions.

Calcium is the main mineral in the human body. Most of it is stored in the bones and gives them stability. The remaining calcium supports various vital functions, including muscle contraction, nerve transmission and blood clotting. Calcium requirements vary according to age and certain phases of life such as pregnancy or breastfeeding. A lack of calcium can lead to various symptoms, from tingling in the fingers to serious bone problems such as osteoporosis. Too much calcium can also cause health problems, including constipation, kidney problems and impaired absorption of iron and zinc.

Zinc is an essential (vital) mineral for the body that plays a role in many cellular processes. It supports gene regulation, is involved in antioxidant processes and plays a key role in cell division, especially in fast-growing tissues such as the gastrointestinal tract and the immune system. Zinc is also important for brain function and the production of insulin. It helps regulate thyroid function. A lack of zinc can lead to skin problems, growth retardation and immune and nervous system disorders. Food sources: meat (especially liver and beef), eggs, fish, cereals, milk, wheat bran, dried pulses, dried nuts and certain cereals.

Copper is an essential metal that plays a role in numerous body processes, including cellular respiration, ATP production, antioxidant processes and iron metabolism. It supports the development of nerve, connective and bone tissue, plays a role in the immune system and in the formation of red blood cells. A copper deficiency can be caused by certain diseases, pregnancy or the intake of other minerals (such as iron and zinc). Symptoms of deficiency include anemia, osteoporosis, neurological symptoms and weakening of the immune system. Food sources: liver, fishery products, dried nuts. Meat, eggs, milk and dairy products tend to contain little copper, while wholemeal products and pulses contain small amounts. The copper content in drinking water is generally low, but can increase due to corrosion of pipes.

Magnesium is an important mineral that is mainly stored within the body’s cells. It is involved in many vital processes, including the production of fat molecules (lipids), proteins and the building blocks of DNA (nucleic acids). Magnesium supports muscle and nerve function and is essential for bone health. A deficiency can affect the metabolism of other important minerals such as calcium, sodium and potassium and lead to symptoms such as muscle weakness and heart problems.

Manganese is a metal found mainly in bones, some organs and in smaller amounts in muscles and blood. It supports many enzymes in our body, including those involved in the formation of proteins, energy metabolism and protection against oxidative stress. A deficiency of manganese can lead to low cholesterol levels, bone problems and reduced growth in children. It is also known that manganese can affect the absorption of other minerals, such as iron and calcium. Food sources: plant foods, especially wheat germ, bran and dried nuts.

A protein that controls intestinal permeability. It influences the connections between the intestinal cells and ensures that harmful substances do not enter the bloodstream. High zonulin levels indicate an impairment of the intestinal wall, which can trigger inflammation and a variety of symptoms such as headaches, abdominal pain and food intolerances.

LBP is a protein that becomes active when the body reacts to bacterial infections. It binds specifically to bacterial substances called lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and presents them to the immune cells to start the defense reaction. An elevated level of LBP in the blood may indicate a bacterial infection and may also be associated with problems in intestinal permeability that allow bacterial products to enter the blood.

Secretory IgAs are specialized antibodies that are mainly produced in areas such as the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract and urogenital tract. They play a central role in the local immune defense of these regions. Measuring their concentration in the stool provides information about the state of the gut-associated immune system. A low value could indicate a weakened intestinal immune defense, while an increased value indicates an active immune reaction in the intestinal area. Possible causes for an increase could be injuries to the intestinal mucosa, an imbalance of intestinal bacteria, infections or autoimmune diseases.

Cortisol, often referred to as the ‘stress hormone,’ is produced by the adrenal glands and helps the body to respond to stressful situations. It follows a daily rhythm, with the highest levels occurring in the morning and the lowest in the evening. An imbalance or change in this rhythm, often due to chronic stress, can disrupt the sleep-wake cycle and lead to tiredness on waking and increased levels in the evening. Long-term changes in the cortisol rhythm can lead to various health problems, including high blood pressure, obesity, altered glucose tolerance, muscle weakness, changes in the menstrual cycle and libido, edema, recurrent infections (due to reduced efficiency of the immune system), cardiovascular disease, mood swings, headaches and osteoporosis.

Cortisol in saliva (on waking)

Cortisol in saliva (17:00)

Cortisol in saliva (before going to bed)

Melatonin, produced by the pineal gland, regulates our sleep-wake rhythm and synchronizes our biological rhythm with the light-dark change in the environment. Darkness increases and light inhibits melatonin production. Secretion begins in the evening and reaches its peak in the early hours of the morning. A disturbance in melatonin production can affect the quality and duration of sleep.

Melatonin in saliva (on awakening)

Melatonin in saliva (17:00)

Melatonin in saliva (before going to bed)

An iron deficiency can impair physical performance, weaken the immune system and have a negative impact on the nervous system. An iron deficiency goes through various stages: first the iron reserves are depleted, then there are signs of an insufficient iron supply in the body and in the final stage anemia can occur as the hemoglobin concentration in the blood drops. Food sources: Iron-rich foods include offal, dried legumes, meat (especially red meat), fish products, dried and oily fruits, whole-grain products, leafy vegetables and chicken eggs. Iron from meat and fish (heme iron) is more bioavailable than iron from plant sources and dairy products (non-heme iron).

Transferrin is a blood protein that plays a crucial role in the transportation of iron in the body. It delivers iron to cells that need it to produce hemoglobin, myoglobin and cytochromes. Transferrin saturation measures the ratio of iron to its total binding capacity. Low transferrin saturation can indicate an iron deficiency.

Ferritin is a protein that stores iron and shows us directly how much iron our body has in reserve. These reserves help us not to show symptoms of iron deficiency immediately. However, if these reserves are too low and are not replenished over a longer period of time, symptoms such as tiredness, weakness and paleness can occur. It is important to ensure sufficient iron reserves to prevent anemia. Ferritin is an iron-containing protein and the main form in which iron is stored in the body. The amount of ferritin released into the blood is a direct measure of iron reserves. Ferritin buffers iron deficiency states and thus protects against anemia. A permanently low ferritin level can lead to anemia symptoms such as tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headaches and pallor.

Transferrin is a blood protein that plays a crucial role in the transportation of iron in the body. It delivers iron to cells that need it to produce hemoglobin, myoglobin and cytochromes. Transferrin saturation measures the ratio of iron to its total binding capacity. Low transferrin saturation may indicate iron deficiency.

CRP (C-reactive protein) is an acute-phase protein produced by the liver and serves as a non-specific marker of inflammation. Its level rises in inflammation, trauma, infection and heart disease. It can be used to monitor inflammation and the course of therapy in chronic diseases. In an iron metabolism profile, it is important to know whether inflammation is present or not, as this can influence the interpretation of the results. Inflammation can lead to higher ferritin levels, which could falsely indicate adequate iron levels, even though the iron is not being used effectively in the body due to the inflammation. If CRP is elevated, this could indicate that further investigation of iron metabolism is required to determine whether iron deficiency or inflammation is actually present.

C-reactive protein (CRP) is a marker for inflammation in the body. When its levels rise, it can indicate inflammation, infection or other medical conditions. The ultra-sensitive measurement of CRP can detect even low levels of inflammation associated with various diseases. This measurement is particularly useful for determining health risk in individuals who may not have obvious risk factors.

This is the sugar that circulates in the blood and is an important source of energy for the body. Too low levels can lead to symptoms such as sweating, palpitations and confusion, while too high levels can cause fatigue, thirst, frequent urination and other problems.

A hormone that regulates blood sugar levels by transporting glucose into cells. Insulin resistance or a lack of it can lead to diabetes and other health problems.

Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) is a molecule produced by the liver that, like insulin, can lower blood sugar levels. Both low and high levels of IGF-1 have been linked to insulin resistance, and normalizing the GH/IGF-1 axis can improve metabolic control.

This blood test indicates how high the average blood glucose level has been in the last 2–3 months. A higher HbA1c value indicates poor blood sugar control, which can lead to complications in diabetics.

This value is used to assess insulin resistance in the body. A higher HOMA index indicates increased insulin resistance, which can increase the risk of various health problems such as diabetes and fatty liver.

The QUICKI (Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index) is a score that estimates the body’s insulin sensitivity. A low QUICKI score indicates insulin resistance, which may indicate an increased risk of various health problems, including diabetes.

BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) is a molecule that is crucial for the development and survival of brain cells. Elevated BDNF levels protect against memory problems and the aging process of the brain. Low levels are seen in depression and susceptibility to stress. BDNF can be influenced by exercise, omega-3 fatty acids and certain substances. Food sources: fish, liver, celery, broccoli, cauliflower, nuts, shrimp, chickpeas, blueberries and green tea.

 EPA and DHA are omega-3 fatty acids that fulfill important functions in the body. They are precursors of anti-inflammatory molecules and contribute to the maintenance of a healthy nervous system and good heart health. The main sources of EPA and DHA are fatty fish such as salmon and tuna. Plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids include beans, flaxseed, nuts and soybean oil. A balanced diet with the right nutrients is important for the conversion of ALA into EPA and DHA. Food sources: fatty fish such as cod, tuna, salmon, trout, sole, squid, octopus and shrimp; plant sources such as beans, flaxseed, nuts and soybean oil.

GLA is an anti-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acid. Food sources: evening primrose oil, borage oil, hemp oil.

Vitamin D has a variety of functions in the body. It regulates calcium and phosphate levels for healthy bones and has a positive effect on muscle function and the immune system. Vitamin D is also important for the brain as it is involved in several neurological functions. It plays a role in the formation and function of neurotransmitters, the brain’s chemical messengers that are crucial for communication between nerve cells. The body can produce vitamin D through sun exposure, but certain populations are at higher risk for deficiency. Food sources: Good food sources include cod liver oil and fatty fish such as salmon, tuna and herring. Some foods are also artificially fortified with vitamin D, such as dairy products.