Do we need the 'sunshine' vitamin D3 only in winter?
When you feel the sun's rays on your skin, know that your body is creating one of the most important vitamins - D3, which was discovered thanks to centuries of research. The discovery of vitamin D3 became one of the most significant medical achievements of the 20th century, saving millions of lives: It was the year 1650 and in the streets of London, doctors noticed that more and more children were suffering from a strange disease called rickets (their bones were weak and brittle, legs deformed, growth slowed). It wasn't until 1919 that Dr. Huldschinsky exposed children with rickets to ultraviolet light and their bones began to heal! Three years later, biochemist McCollum discovered a substance that prevented rickets and called it vitamin D. Gradually, the existence of the most important form of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) was discovered.
B3 - example that food is medicine
Niacin was long considered a mere part of the diet until it was discovered that its deficiency causes skin, digestive, and mental problems known as pellagra. Doctor Goldberger proved that the cause of this disease is not an infection but a one-sided diet without vitamin B3. He conducted an experiment on himself and his colleagues, who consumed exclusively poor diets and began to show symptoms of pellagra. However, when they added nutrients rich in niacin to their diet, the symptoms disappeared. In 1937, niacin was isolated from the liver, confirming its importance and nutritional value.
Maca - Peruvian Ginseng
For ages, people have been trying to find miraculous herbs and mushrooms that would enhance health, cure deadly diseases, and boost male potency. Each culture has its proven aphrodisiacs. Here, oysters or chocolate are especially well-known. Recently, especially with the development of tourism, we gradually also learn about other invigorating means that people use often on the opposite side of the planet. One of the oldest substances for potency support is Maca Peruvian Watercress.
B5 - Guardian of Vitality and Beauty
“Is it just another vitamin... or?” one might think, but the more we learn about pantothenic acid, the more it fascinates us. Vitamin B5 plays a crucial role in converting food into energy, supports concentration, mental well-being, and even skin regeneration. Without it, the body would not be able to properly produce hormones or fight stress. It is also a substance that is hidden in every cell of our body, accompanies us from birth, and contributes to sufficient energy, skin health, and mental acuity. Although we may overlook it, its importance is undeniable, and its name is no coincidence. It comes from the Greek word “panto”, meaning “everywhere.” And indeed, it is omnipresent, irreplaceable, and somewhat mysterious. If we start exploring where this essential vitamin is found, it's in eggs, nuts, whole grains, shellfish, avocados, salmon, liver, kidneys, beef, yeast, vegetables... And if we've just realized that our diet is low in these foods, we should consider supplementing B5. After just a few days, we would notice a change. We would wake up with more energy, have a clearer mind, and even see an improvement in our skin. Colleagues would notice that we work faster, are more creative, and less stressed. Pantothenic acid will help us get back in shape. And for us, it will no longer be just another substance on the list of vitamins.
Ashwagandha - Withania somnifera
„Ashwa“ (horse) „gandha“ (root smell), the name itself points to the plant's ability to provide strength and vitality (animal strength hidden in the root). Known by names „Indian ginseng“ (similar root shape), also „winter cherry“ (fruits resemble cherries). From the small bush with yellow flowers, mainly the root is used in traditional medicine. Given its calming effects, it's appropriately named Withania somnifera, sleepy or dreamy. The Latin name somnifera also reveals its sleep-inducing property.
Omega 3, precious message of the sea
Do you long to wake up with ease in the morning, look fresher, not feel joint pain, have more energy, be able to focus, and feel better in your body? We could find the solution from fishermen who got up earlier than the sun each morning, went out to the sea, and greeted the new day with a smile. These were men who never knew the doctor, had sharp minds even in old age, their hands still firmly held the fishing nets and they lived functional longevity, often working into their 90s. The fishermen's treasure was exactly fish oil, which works similarly to a lubricant for our body: it helps the heart pump blood, keeps the mind fresh, and joints flexible, without it, the joints would be like an old creaking ship. The message that the sea gives us what we need was conveyed to future generations because some gifts of health are too precious to keep to oneself.