Supplemental

Supplemental

AJAX progress indicator
  • a

  • ADBAC
    Type:Toxin
    Name:Benzalkonium Chloride (BZK)
    Importance- to Body:
    Considered Acutely Toxic
    Distribution- in Body:
    Respiratory System, Skin, Area Applied
    Excess Effects:
    Dangerous for individuals with Eczema and Asthma, dangerous to eyes if physically exposed, can cause Rashes, Wheezing, Coughing, Allergic Reaction
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Household Products, Cleaning Products, Shampoos, Soaps, Deodorants, Perfumes, Eye Makeup
    Supplemental information:
    Inhaling BZK for long periods of time could cause asthma.

  • Aemmonas hydrophila
    Type: Parasite
    Name: Aemmonas hydrophila
    Importance- to Body:
    Cutaneous Infection
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin; Soft tissue infection with subcutaneous abscess. Bullous Lesions, myonecrosis, Ecthyma gangrenosum, Furuncles, Necrotizing Fasciitis
    Epidemiology:
    Gram-negative rod
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Fresh Water, brackish Water, Leeches, Alligator Bites
    Diagonosis:
    Microbiologic cultures
    Treatment:
    All fluoroquinolones, amikacin, ceftriaxone, ceftazidime, cefepime, tobramycin, aztreonam, imipenem, amoxicillin/clavulanate, meropenem,ampicillin/sulbactam, piperacillin, ticarcillin, piperacillin/tazobactarn, ticarcillin/clavulanate, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. May require surgical incision and drainage. Antibiotic duration usually 2 to 4 weeks.
    Supplemental information:
    Source: Cutaneous Manifestations Of Waterborne Infections by: Lucinda Elko, MD, RPh, Keith Rosenbach, MD, PhD*, and John Sinnott, MD

  • Alkyldimethylbenzylammonium Chloride
    Type:Toxin
    Name:Benzalkonium Chloride (BZK)
    Importance- to Body:
    Considered Acutely Toxic
    Distribution- in Body:
    Respiratory System, Skin, Area Applied
    Excess Effects:
    Dangerous for individuals with Eczema and Asthma, dangerous to eyes if physically exposed, can cause Rashes, Wheezing, Coughing, Allergic Reaction
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Household Products, Cleaning Products, Shampoos, Soaps, Deodorants, Perfumes, Eye Makeup
    Supplemental information:
    Inhaling BZK for long periods of time could cause asthma.

  • Alpha Hydroxy Acids
    Type:Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA)
    Name:Alpha Hydroxy Acids
    RDA:None Listed
    Importance- to body:
    Exfoliant, Used for Sensitive and Dry Skin, Hydrating, Brightens Skin, Tightens Skin
    Distribution- in body:
    Skin
    Excess effects:
    Irritation, Dryness, Rashes, Peeling, Redness, Tenderness, Swelling, Itching, Increased Sunburn
    Deficiency effects:
    Dull Skin, Dry Skin, Whiteheads, Blackheads
    Food Sources:
    Milk, Yogurt, Sourdough Bread, Pickled Vegetables, Citrus Fruits, Apples, Bitter Almonds, Pineapple, Unripe Grapes
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Face Cleansers, Serums, Creams, Peels, Moisturizers, Toners, Spot Treatments
    Supplemental information:
    Works Cited: Cespedes, Andrea. “Foods Containing Alpha Hydroxy Acid” LIVESTRONG.COM, Leaf Group, 3 Oct. 2017
    Hamlett, Shauntelle. “List of Alpha Hydroxy Acids” LIVESTRONG.COM, Leaf Group, 3 Oct. 2017

  • Aluminum
    AluminumType: Mineral
    Periodic Element: (Al)
    RDA: None listed
    Importance- To Body:
    Generally considered hazardous or detrimental biologically. Aluminium increases estrogen-related gene expression in human breast cancer cells cultured in the laboratory. The estrogen-like effects of these salts have led to their classification as metalloestrogens.
    Distribution- In Body:
    In very high doses, aluminium is associated with altered function of the blood–brain barrier. Consumption of acidic foods or liquids with aluminium enhances aluminium absorption, and maltol has been shown to increase the accumulation of aluminium in nerve and bone tissues.
    Excess Effects:
    Some People experience allergic reactions to aluminium and experience contact dermatitis, digestive disorders, vomiting or other symptoms upon contact or ingestion of products containing aluminium such as antiperspirants and antacids.
    Otherwise, there is evidence of some toxicity if it is consumed in amounts greater than 40 mg/day per kg of body mass. Excessive consumption of antacids containing aluminium compounds and excessive use of aluminium-containing antiperspirants provide more significant exposure levels. Exposure to powdered aluminium or aluminium welding fumes can cause pulmonary fibrosis.
    Deficiency Effects:
    None listed
    Sources Food:
    Some studies point to risks associated with increased exposure to the metal. Aluminium in food may be absorbed more than aluminium from water.
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    (OSHA) has set a permissible exposure limit of 15 mg/m3 time weighted average (TWA) for total exposure and 5 mg/m3 TWA for respiratory exposure. The US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommended exposure limit is the same for respiratory exposure but is 10 mg/m3 for total exposure, and 5 mg/m3 for fumes and powder.
    Supplement Information:
    Research correlating Aluminum as a factor in Alzheimer's is inconclusive; aluminium accumulation may be a consequence of the disease rather than a causal agent.

  • Antirachitic Factor
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: D
    Name: Antirachitic Factor, Ergocalciferol, Cholecalciferol
    RDA: 400 IU
    Importance- to Body:
    Functionally a hormone; increases calcium blood levels by enhancing absorption of calcium; in conjunction with PTH, mobilizes calcium from bones; both mechanisms serve calcium homeostasis of blood (essential for normal neuromuscular function, blood clotting, bone and took formation).
    Distribution- in Body:
    Group of chemically distinct sterols; concentrated in liver and to lesser extent in skin, kidneys, spleen, other tissues; stable to heat, light, acids, alkalis, oxidation.
    Excess Effects:
    1800 IU/day may be toxic to children, massive doses induce toxicity in adults; symptoms: Vomiting, Diarrhea, Weight Loss, Calcification of Soft Tissues, Renal Damage
    Deficiency Effects:
    Faulty mineralization of Bones and Teeth, Rickets in children, Osteomalacia in adults; Poor Muscle Tone, Restlessness, Irritability
    Food Sources:
    Fish Liver Oils, Eggs Yolk, Fortified Milk.
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is chief form in body cells; produced in skin by irradiation of 7- dehydrocholesterol by UV light; active form (1,25- dihydroxyvitamin D3) produced by chemical modification of vitamin D3 in liver, then kidneys.
    Supplemental information:

  • Antisterility Factor
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: E
    Name: Antisterility Factor,Tocopherols,Tocotrienols
    RDA: 30 IU
    Importance- to Body:
    An antioxidant that disarms free radicals; helps prevent oxidation of vitamins A and C in intestine; in tissues, decreases oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids, thus helps maintain integrity of cell membranes.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Group of related compounds called tocopherols, chemically related to sex hormones; stored primarily in muscle and adipose tissues; resistant to heat, light, acids; unstable in presence of oxygen.
    Excess Effects:
    Thrombophlebitis, Hypertension; Slow Wound Healing
    Deficiency Effects:
    Extremely rare, precise effects uncertain: possible Hemolysis of RBC's, Macrocytic Anemia; Fragile Capillaries
    Food Sources:
    Vegetable oils, Margarine, Whole Grains, Dark-Green Leafy Vegetables, Seeds, Nuts
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Supplemental information:

  • Arsenic
    ArsenicType: Essential Mineral
    Periodic Element: (As)
    RDA: The average person's intake is about 10–50 µg/day. 10 parts per billion (ppb) Acceptable amount in drinking water according to World Health Organization.
    Importance- To Body:
    Toxin at high levels.
    Some evidence indicates that arsenic is an essential trace mineral in birds (chickens), and in mammals (rats, hamsters, and goats). However, the biological function is not known.
    Distribution- In Body:
    The organs of the body that are usually affected by arsenic poisoning are the lungs, skin, kidneys, and liver.
    Excess Effects:
    headaches, confusion, severe diarrhea, drowsiness developing into convulsions, leukonychia striata - Mees's lines, or Aldrich-Mees's lines, diarrhea, vomiting, vomiting blood, blood in the urine, cramping muscles, hair loss, stomach pain and more convulsions. Arsenic has been linked to reproductive epigenetic changes, heritable changes in gene expression that occur without changes in DNA sequence. These include DNA methylation, histone modification, and RNA interference.
    Deficiency Effects:
    None listed
    Sources Food:
    Leafy Vegetables, Rice, Apple Juice, Grape Juice, Mushrooms, Seafood
    Values about 1000 µg are not unusual following consumption of fish or mushrooms, but there is little danger in eating fish because this arsenic compound is nearly non-toxic.
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    Naturally occurring sources of human exposure include volcanic ash, weathering of minerals and ores, and mineralized groundwater. Arsenic is also found in food, water, soil, and air. Arsenic is absorbed by all plants, but is more concentrated in leafy vegetables, rice, apple and grape juice, and seafood. An additional route of exposure is inhalation of atmospheric gases and dusts.
    Supplemental information:

  • Ascorbic Acid
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: C
    Name: Ascorbic Acid,L-Ascorbic Acid
    RDA: 60 mg (100 mg for those who smoke)
    Importance- to Body:
    Acts in hydroxylation reactions in formation of nearly all connective tissues; in conversion of tryptophan to serotonin; in conversion of cholesterol to bile salts; helps protect vitamins A and E and dietary fats from oxidation.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Simple 6-carbon crystalline compound derived from glucose; rapidly destroyed by heat, light, alkalis; about 1500 mg is stored in body, particularly in adrenal gland, retina, intestine, pituitary; when tissues are saturated.
    Excess Effects:
    Generally large doses may cause Gastrointestinal Discomfort, Headache, Trouble Sleeping, and Flushing of the Skin. Results of mega doses (10 or more times RDA); Enhanced Mobilization of Bone Minerals and Blood Coagulation; Exacerbation of Gout; Kidney Stone Formation
    Deficiency Effects:
    Defective formation of intercellular cement; Fleeting Joint Pains, Poor Tooth and Bone Growth; Poor Wound Healing, Increased Susceptibility to Infection; Extreme deficit causes Scurvy (more generally known as Periodontal Disease today).
    Food Sources:
    Fruit, Tomatoes, Cantaloupe, Strawberries, Vegetables, Potatoes, Leafy Greens
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Azaclear
    Type: Dicarboxylic Acid
    Name: Azelaic Acid
    RDA: None Listed, (varies from person to person), 10% concentration in solution is generally sufficient, 15-20% qualifies as prescription strength
    Importance- to Body:
    Anti-inflammatory, Antibacterial,Treats Acne and Rosacea, Melasma
    Naturally occuring Exfoliant, Anti-inflammatory, Anti-bacterial. Kills acne bacteria. Reduces inflammation clears bumps caused by rosacea, and other visible skin disorders (brown patches, post- acne blemishes), dull skin tone, signs of sensitivities
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin (Surface, Uppermost layers)
    Excess Effects:
    Burning, Stinging, Dry Skin, Redness, Itching, Irritation, Tightness;
    Excess Effects:
    Dizziness, Headaches, Nausea, Contact Dermatitis, Changing of skin color
    Deficiency Effects:

    Food Sources:
    Whole Grains such as Barley, Wheat, and Rye Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Natural biproduct of Malassezia furfur (a yeast that lives symbiotically on human skin)
    Supplemental information:
    Can be found in: Topical Gels, Creams, Foams

  • Azelac
    Type: Dicarboxylic Acid
    Name: Azelaic Acid
    RDA: None Listed, (varies from person to person), 10% concentration in solution is generally sufficient, 15-20% qualifies as prescription strength
    Importance- to Body:
    Anti-inflammatory, Antibacterial,Treats Acne and Rosacea, Melasma
    Naturally occuring Exfoliant, Anti-inflammatory, Anti-bacterial. Kills acne bacteria. Reduces inflammation clears bumps caused by rosacea, and other visible skin disorders (brown patches, post- acne blemishes), dull skin tone, signs of sensitivities
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin (Surface, Uppermost layers)
    Excess Effects:
    Burning, Stinging, Dry Skin, Redness, Itching, Irritation, Tightness;
    Excess Effects:
    Dizziness, Headaches, Nausea, Contact Dermatitis, Changing of skin color
    Deficiency Effects:

    Food Sources:
    Whole Grains such as Barley, Wheat, and Rye Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Natural biproduct of Malassezia furfur (a yeast that lives symbiotically on human skin)
    Supplemental information:
    Can be found in: Topical Gels, Creams, Foams

  • Azelaic Acid
    Type: Dicarboxylic Acid
    Name: Azelaic Acid
    RDA: None Listed, (varies from person to person), 10% concentration in solution is generally sufficient, 15-20% qualifies as prescription strength
    Importance- to Body:
    Anti-inflammatory, Antibacterial,Treats Acne and Rosacea, Melasma
    Naturally occuring Exfoliant, Anti-inflammatory, Anti-bacterial. Kills acne bacteria. Reduces inflammation clears bumps caused by rosacea, and other visible skin disorders (brown patches, post- acne blemishes), dull skin tone, signs of sensitivities
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin (Surface, Uppermost layers)
    Excess Effects:
    Burning, Stinging, Dry Skin, Redness, Itching, Irritation, Tightness;
    Excess Effects:
    Dizziness, Headaches, Nausea, Contact Dermatitis, Changing of skin color
    Deficiency Effects:

    Food Sources:
    Whole Grains such as Barley, Wheat, and Rye Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Natural biproduct of Malassezia furfur (a yeast that lives symbiotically on human skin)
    Supplemental information:
    Can be found in: Topical Gels, Creams, Foams

  • b

  • BAC
    Type:Toxin
    Name:Benzalkonium Chloride (BZK)
    Importance- to Body:
    Considered Acutely Toxic
    Distribution- in Body:
    Respiratory System, Skin, Area Applied
    Excess Effects:
    Dangerous for individuals with Eczema and Asthma, dangerous to eyes if physically exposed, can cause Rashes, Wheezing, Coughing, Allergic Reaction
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Household Products, Cleaning Products, Shampoos, Soaps, Deodorants, Perfumes, Eye Makeup
    Supplemental information:
    Inhaling BZK for long periods of time could cause asthma.

  • Benatar
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Coal Tar, Name Brands: Denorex, Psoriasin, Benatar
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Skin, Treat Psoriasis on affected area, Eczema and Dandruff.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System, Eyes
    Excess Effects:
    Skin Discoloration, Skin Irritation, Allergic Reactions, Sensitivity to Sun, Skin Cancer, Lung Cancer
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Food Coloring
    Environmental/Geographic Sources: Found in medicated (anti-dandruff) shampoo, Soaps, Ointments, Coal Tar is from the production of coke (mainly carbon) and coal gas.
    Supplemental information:
      Medicated, Anti-fungal, Anti-itch, Anti-inflammatory and Anti-parasitic. Considered acutely toxic when inhaled for long periods of time.

    Works Cited:
    “Coal Tar and Coal-Tar Pitch.” National Cancer Institute, www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/substances/coal-tar
    Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. “Products - Hair Dyes.” U S Food and Drug Administration Home Page, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, www.fda.gov/Cosmetics/ProductsIngredients/Products/ucm143066.htm

  • Benzalkonium Chloride
    Type:Toxin
    Name:Benzalkonium Chloride (BZK)
    Importance- to Body:
    Considered Acutely Toxic
    Distribution- in Body:
    Respiratory System, Skin, Area Applied
    Excess Effects:
    Dangerous for individuals with Eczema and Asthma, dangerous to eyes if physically exposed, can cause Rashes, Wheezing, Coughing, Allergic Reaction
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Household Products, Cleaning Products, Shampoos, Soaps, Deodorants, Perfumes, Eye Makeup
    Supplemental information:
    Inhaling BZK for long periods of time could cause asthma.

  • Benzene-1.4-diol
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Hydroquinone (Tocopheryl Acetate) C6H4(OH)2
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Skin
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System, Area Applied
    Excess Effects:
    Skin Cancer
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Blueberries, Pears, Beans, Broccoli, Onions, Tea, Red Wine, Wheat Cereals, Coffee
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Spot Treatments, Anti-Aging Products, Skin Lighteners, Hair Conditioners, Finger Nail Products, Facial Moisturizers, Facial Cleansers
    Supplemental information:
    ‘Artificial’ Skin Lightener that Decreases the Production of Melanin (used to lighten age spots, acne spots, hyperpigmentation, melasma)

    Works Cited:
    “The Truth About Hydroquinone by MedicineNet.com.” MedicineNet,
    www.medicinenet.com/fda_proposes_hydroquinone_ban/views.htm.

  • benzophenone-3
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Oxybenzone
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Skin
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Areas Applied
    Excess Effects:
    Skin Cancer, Risk to Reproductive System, Disruption of Hormones, Early Puberty in Females, Photo Sensitivity
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Sunscreen, Lotion, Hair Products
    Supplemental information:
    Prevent Sun Damage, Chemical Sunscreen Agent

    Works Cited:
    Griffin, R. Morgan. “Sun Safety: Sunscreen and Sun Protection.” WebMD, WebMD, www.webmd.com/beauty/features/sun-safety-sunscreen-and-sun-protection.

  • BHA
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Eye, Skin, Other, Possible Carcinogen
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System, Area Applied
    Excess Effects:
    Skin Irritation, dangerous to eyes if physically exposed, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Cereal, Boxed Foods, Butter, Instant Mashed Potatoes, Chips, Wax Food Packaging, Rubber
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Found in many Cosmetics, Hair Products, Deodorants, Sunscreen, Fragrances, Foods
    Supplemental information: Preservative, Considered acutely toxic by the FDA, although there are disagreements, Prevents foods from becoming rancid, Synthetic Antioxidant (slows deterioration of products and keeps to keep color).

  • BHT
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Eye, Skin, Other, Possible Carcinogen, FDA Classified as "acutely toxic".
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System.
    Excess Effects:
    Skin Irritation, dangerous to eyes if physically exposed, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Cereal, Boxed Foods, Butter, Instant Mashed Potatoes, Chips, Wax Food Packaging, Shortening, Rubber, Plastic, Animal Foods, Cosmetics
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Found in many Cosmetics, Hair Products, Deodorants, Sunscreen, Fragrances, Food
    Supplemental information:
    Synthetic, Preservative, Stabilizes Fat, Considered acutely toxic by the FDA, although there is disagreement. Prevents foods from becoming rancid, May be considered a carcinogen, Had negative effects on rats tested.

    Works Cited:
    “BHA and BHT: A Case for Fresh?” Scientific American, www.scientificamerican.com/article/bha-and-bht-a-case-for-fresh/.

  • Biotin
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B7
    Name: Biotin
    RDA:Not established; probably about 0.3 mg (because biotin content of feces and urine is greater than dietary intake, it is assumed that formation of the vitamin by enteric bacteria provides far more than is needed).
    Importance- to Body:
    Functions as coenzyme for a number of enzymes that catalyze carboxylation, decarboxylation, deamination reactions; essential for reactions of Krebs cycle, for formation of purines and nonessential amino acids.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Some is synthesized by bacteria in gastrointestinal tract. In tissues, is usually combined with protein; stored in minute amounts, particularly in liver, kidneys, brain, adrenal glands. Urea derivative containing sulfur; crystalline in its free form; stable to heat, light, acids
    Excess Effects:
    None listed
    Deficiency Effects:
    Scaly skin, Muscular Pains, Pallor, Anorexia, Nausea, Fatigue; Elevated Blood Cholesterol Levels
    Food Sources:
    Liver, Egg Yolk, Legumes, Nuts
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • BKC
    Type:Toxin
    Name:Benzalkonium Chloride (BZK)
    Importance- to Body:
    Considered Acutely Toxic
    Distribution- in Body:
    Respiratory System, Skin, Area Applied
    Excess Effects:
    Dangerous for individuals with Eczema and Asthma, dangerous to eyes if physically exposed, can cause Rashes, Wheezing, Coughing, Allergic Reaction
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Household Products, Cleaning Products, Shampoos, Soaps, Deodorants, Perfumes, Eye Makeup
    Supplemental information:
    Inhaling BZK for long periods of time could cause asthma.

  • Boron
    BoronType: Periodic Element
    Periodic Element: (B)
    RDA: Not established
    Importance- To Body:
    Boric acid has antiseptic, antifungal, and antiviral properties and for these reasons is applied as a water clarifier in swimming pool water treatment. Mild solutions of boric acid have been used as eye antiseptics.
    Distribution- In Body:
    Adult dietary intake is estimated at 0.9 to 1.4 mg/day, with about 90% absorbed. What is absorbed is mostly excreted in urine. The Tolerable Upper Intake Level for adults is 20 mg/day.
    Excess Effects:
    Elemental boron, boron oxide, boric acid, borates, and many organoboron compounds are relatively nontoxic to humans and animals (with toxicity similar to that of table salt). An intake of 4 g per day of boric acid was reported without incident, but more than this is considered toxic in more than a few doses. Intakes of more than 0.5 grams per day for 50 days cause minor digestive and other problems suggestive of toxicity.
    Boranes (boron hydrogen compounds) and similar gaseous compounds are quite poisonous. As usual, it is not an element that is intrinsically poisonous, but their toxicity depends on structure.
    Deficiency Effects:
    A small human trial published in 1987 reported on postmenopausal women first made boron deficient and then repleted with 3 mg/day. Boron supplementation markedly reduced urinary calcium excretion and elevated the serum concentrations of 17 beta-estradiol and testosterone.
    A report given by E. Wayne Johnson et al. at the 2005 Alan D. Leman Swine Conference suggests that boron deficiency produces osteochondrosis in swine that is correctable by addition of 50 ppm of boron to the diet. The amount of boron required by animals and humans is not yet well established.
    Sources Food:
    Boron is necessary for plant growth, but an excess of boron is toxic to plants, and occurs particularly in acidic soil. It presents as a yellowing from the tip inwards of the oldest leaves and black spots in barley leaves, but it can be confused with other stresses such as magnesium deficiency in other plants.
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    Boric acid is more toxic to insects than to mammals, and is routinely used as an insecticide.
    Supplement Information:

  • Butylated Hydroxyanisole
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Eye, Skin, Other, Possible Carcinogen
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System, Area Applied
    Excess Effects:
    Skin Irritation, dangerous to eyes if physically exposed, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Cereal, Boxed Foods, Butter, Instant Mashed Potatoes, Chips, Wax Food Packaging, Rubber
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Found in many Cosmetics, Hair Products, Deodorants, Sunscreen, Fragrances, Foods
    Supplemental information: Preservative, Considered acutely toxic by the FDA, although there are disagreements, Prevents foods from becoming rancid, Synthetic Antioxidant (slows deterioration of products and keeps to keep color).

  • Butylated Hydroxytoluene
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Eye, Skin, Other, Possible Carcinogen, FDA Classified as "acutely toxic".
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System.
    Excess Effects:
    Skin Irritation, dangerous to eyes if physically exposed, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Cereal, Boxed Foods, Butter, Instant Mashed Potatoes, Chips, Wax Food Packaging, Shortening, Rubber, Plastic, Animal Foods, Cosmetics
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Found in many Cosmetics, Hair Products, Deodorants, Sunscreen, Fragrances, Food
    Supplemental information:
    Synthetic, Preservative, Stabilizes Fat, Considered acutely toxic by the FDA, although there is disagreement. Prevents foods from becoming rancid, May be considered a carcinogen, Had negative effects on rats tested.

    Works Cited:
    “BHA and BHT: A Case for Fresh?” Scientific American, www.scientificamerican.com/article/bha-and-bht-a-case-for-fresh/.

  • BZK
    Type:Toxin
    Name:Benzalkonium Chloride (BZK)
    Importance- to Body:
    Considered Acutely Toxic
    Distribution- in Body:
    Respiratory System, Skin, Area Applied
    Excess Effects:
    Dangerous for individuals with Eczema and Asthma, dangerous to eyes if physically exposed, can cause Rashes, Wheezing, Coughing, Allergic Reaction
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Household Products, Cleaning Products, Shampoos, Soaps, Deodorants, Perfumes, Eye Makeup
    Supplemental information:
    Inhaling BZK for long periods of time could cause asthma.

  • c

  • Calcium
    CalciumType: Lesser Element
    Periodic Element: (Ca)
    RDA: 1200 mg, about 1 g. dropping to 800 mg after age 25
    Importance- To Body:
    Found as salt in bones and teeth. In ionic form (Ca for is required for muscle contraction, conduction of nerve impulses, and blood clotting.
    Necessary for proper bone structure, normal heart action, blood clotting, muscle contraction, excitability, nerve synapses, mental activity, buffer systems, glycogen metabolism In salt form, required for hardness of bones, teeth; ionic calcium in blood cells essential for normal membrane permeability, activates certain enzymes.
    Distribution- In Body:
    1.5 Approx. % of Body Mass
    Most stored in salt form in bones; most abundant location in body; absorbed from intestine in presence of vitamin D; excess excreted in feces, blood levels regulated by PTH and calcitonin.
    Excess Effects:
    Calcium deposits, heart failure, calcification of soft tissues, Depressed Neural Function; Calcium Salt Deposit in Soft Tissues; Kidney Stones
    Deficiency Effects:
    Tetany of Muscles, Loss of Bone Minerals, Osteomalacia, Osteoporosis in adults Osteoporosis; Retarded Growth and Rickets in children
    Sources Food:
    Dairy products, Milk, Eggs Yolk, Leafy-Green Vegetables, Fish, Shellfish, Soybeans
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Carbamide Carbonyl diamide Carbonyldiamine Diaminomethanal Diaminomethanone
    Type: Protein
    Name: Keratin
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Skin, Hair, Nails
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin
    Excess Effects:
    Too much protein build-up in body
    Deficiency Effects:
    Weak and Brittle Nails, Hair Thinning, Hair Loss
    Food Sources:
    Eggs, Kale, Spinach, Protein-Rich Foods, Vitamin A Foods, Iron-Rich Foods
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Supplements (Powder and Capsule), Hair Treatments, Shampoos, Conditioners, Zinc, B Vitamins, Omega 3 fatty acids
    Supplemental information:
    Insoluble in Water, Protective Protein, Keratin in Hair is a protective layer from the environment

  • Carbon
    CarbonType: Major Element
    Periodic Element: (C)
    RDA: Not listed, adequate nutritional intact provides sufficient amounts.
    Importance- To Body:
    A primary component of all organic molecules, which include carbohydrates, lipids (fats), proteins, and nucleic acids. Carbon is known to form almost ten million different compounds, a large majority of all chemical compounds.
    Distribution- In Body:
    18.5 Approx % Body Mass
    Second most abundant element in the human body by mass (about 18.5%) after oxygen. It is resistant to dissolution or chemical attack, even in the acidic contents of the digestive tract. Consequently, once it enters into the body's tissues it is likely to remain there indefinitely.
    Excess Effects:
    Pure carbon has extremely low toxicity to humans and can be handled and even ingested safely in the form of graphite or charcoal. Suspected harm may result from contaminants (e.g., organic chemicals, heavy metals) rather than from the carbon itself.
    Deficiency Effects:
    Same as starvation as it is in virtually all edible.
    Sources Food:
    Virtually all food sources contain carbon.
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    Carbon is the fourth most abundant chemical element in the observable universe by mass after hydrogen, helium, and oxygen.
    Supplemental information:
    Carbon forms a vast number of compounds, more than any other element, with almost ten million compounds described to date, and yet that number is but a fraction of the number of theoretically possible compounds under standard conditions. For this reason, carbon has often been referred to as the "king of the elements"

  • Chlorine
    ChlorineType: Lesser Element
    Periodic Element: (Cl)
    RDA: Not established; normal diet contains 3-9g
    Importance- To Body:
    Ionic Clorine (Cl-) is the most abundant negative ion (anion) in extracellular fluid.
    With sodium, helps maintain osmotic pressure and pH of extra cellular fluid; required for HCI formation by stomach glands; activates salivary amylase; aids in transport of CO2 by blood.
    Distribution- In Body:
    0.2 Approx. % of Body Mass
    Exists in body almost entirely as chlorine ion; principal anion of extracellular fluid; highest concentrations in cerebrospinal fluid and gastric juice; excreted in urine.
    Excess Effects:
    Vomiting
    Deficiency Effects:
    Severe Vomiting or Diarrhea leads to Cl loss and Alkalosis; Muscle cramps; Apathy.
    Sources Food:
    Table salt (as for sodium); usually ingested in excess
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    None listed
    Supplement Information:

  • Cholecalciferol
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: D
    Name: Antirachitic Factor, Ergocalciferol, Cholecalciferol
    RDA: 400 IU
    Importance- to Body:
    Functionally a hormone; increases calcium blood levels by enhancing absorption of calcium; in conjunction with PTH, mobilizes calcium from bones; both mechanisms serve calcium homeostasis of blood (essential for normal neuromuscular function, blood clotting, bone and took formation).
    Distribution- in Body:
    Group of chemically distinct sterols; concentrated in liver and to lesser extent in skin, kidneys, spleen, other tissues; stable to heat, light, acids, alkalis, oxidation.
    Excess Effects:
    1800 IU/day may be toxic to children, massive doses induce toxicity in adults; symptoms: Vomiting, Diarrhea, Weight Loss, Calcification of Soft Tissues, Renal Damage
    Deficiency Effects:
    Faulty mineralization of Bones and Teeth, Rickets in children, Osteomalacia in adults; Poor Muscle Tone, Restlessness, Irritability
    Food Sources:
    Fish Liver Oils, Eggs Yolk, Fortified Milk.
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is chief form in body cells; produced in skin by irradiation of 7- dehydrocholesterol by UV light; active form (1,25- dihydroxyvitamin D3) produced by chemical modification of vitamin D3 in liver, then kidneys.
    Supplemental information:

  • Chromium
    ChromiumType: Trace Element
    Periodic Element: (Cr)
    RDA: 0.05-2 mg
    Importance- To Body:
    Necessary for glucose metabolism. Essential for proper use of carbohydrates in body; enhances effectiveness of insulin on carbohydrate metabolism; may increase blood levels of HDLs while decreasing levels of LDLs.
    Distribution- In Body:
    * Approx. % of Body Mass
    Widely distributed
    Excess Effects:
    Industrial exposure may cause Skin Damage and Kidney Damage
    Deficiency Effects:
    Impaired Ability to Metabolize Glucose
    Sources Food:
    Meats, Liver, Vegetables, Cheese, Yeast, Brewer's Yeast, Beer, Wine, Unrefined Wheat Flour, Whole Grains, Corn Oil, Shellfish
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Chromobacterium violuceum
    Type: Parasite
    Name: Chromobacterium violuceum
    Importance- to Body:
    Cutaneous Infection
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin; Ulceration with central black eschar, purulent discharge, and surrounding cellulites. Relapse occurs after initial response to therapy.
    Epidemiology:
    Gram-negative rod
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Soil, Water in tropical and subtropical areas
    Diagonosis:
    Microbiologic cultures
    Treatment:
    Antibiotic therapy is not well-documented. Successful treatment with ciprolloxacin, gentamicin, and piperacillin, or imipenem. Then prolong treatment with oral doxycycline, ciprofloxacin, or trirnethoprimlsulfamethoxazole for weeks to months to prevent relapse.
    Supplemental information:
    Source: Cutaneous Manifestations Of Waterborne Infections by: Lucinda Elko, MD, RPh, Keith Rosenbach, MD, PhD*, and John Sinnott, MD

  • Coal Tar
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Coal Tar, Name Brands: Denorex, Psoriasin, Benatar
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Skin, Treat Psoriasis on affected area, Eczema and Dandruff.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System, Eyes
    Excess Effects:
    Skin Discoloration, Skin Irritation, Allergic Reactions, Sensitivity to Sun, Skin Cancer, Lung Cancer
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Food Coloring
    Environmental/Geographic Sources: Found in medicated (anti-dandruff) shampoo, Soaps, Ointments, Coal Tar is from the production of coke (mainly carbon) and coal gas.
    Supplemental information:
      Medicated, Anti-fungal, Anti-itch, Anti-inflammatory and Anti-parasitic. Considered acutely toxic when inhaled for long periods of time.

    Works Cited:
    “Coal Tar and Coal-Tar Pitch.” National Cancer Institute, www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/substances/coal-tar
    Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. “Products - Hair Dyes.” U S Food and Drug Administration Home Page, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, www.fda.gov/Cosmetics/ProductsIngredients/Products/ucm143066.htm

  • Cobalt
    cobaltType: Trace Element
    Name: Cobalt
    Periodic Element: (Co)
    RDA: None listed
    Importance- To Body:
    Necessary for formation of red blood cells, A constituent of vitamin B12, which is needed for normal maturation of red blood cells.
    Distribution- In Body:
    * Approx. % of Body Mass
    Found in all cells larger amounts in bone marrow.
    Excess Effects:
    Industrial exposure may cause dermatitis, diseases of erythrocytes.
    Goiter, Polycythemia; Heart Disease.
    Deficiency Effects:
    May cause Pernicious Anemia
    Sources Food:
    Meats, Liver, Lean Meat, Poultry, Fish, Milk
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Copper
    CopperType: Trace Element
    Periodic Element: (Cu)
    RDA: 2-3 mg -0.05-0.2 mg.
    Importance- To Body:
    Necessary for hemoglobin formation, maintenance of certain copper-containing enzymes, proper intestinal absorption of iron. Essential for manufacture of melanin, myelin, some intermediates of electron transport chain.
    Distribution- In Body:
    * Approx. % of Body Mass
    Concentrated in liver, heart, brain, spleen; excreted in feces.
    Excess Effects:
    Wilson's disease (rare abnormal storage metabolic condition).
    Deficiency Effects:
    Anemia, Bone Disease (rare), Lack of White Blood Cells (Rare)
    Sources Food:
    Liver, meats, shellfish, oysters, legumes, margarine, eggs, whole grains, wheat products. Typical diet provides 2-5 mg daily.
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    None listed
    Supplement Info:

  • Cyanocobalamin
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B12
    Name: Cyanocobalamin, Hydroxycobalamin, Methylcobalamin
    RDA:3-6 µg
    Importance- to Body:
    Functions as coenzyme in all cells, particularly in gastrointestinal tract, nervous system, and bone marrow; in bone marrow, acts in synthesis of DNA; when absent, erythrocytes do not divide but continue to increase in size.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Most complex vitamin; contains cobalt; stable to heat; inactivated by light and strongly acidic or basic solutions; intrinsic factor required for transport across intestinal membrane; stored principally in liver; liver stores of 2000-3000 µg sufficient to provide for body needs for 3-5 years.
    Excess Effects:
    None listed
    Deficiency Effects:
    Most cases reflect impaired absorption rather than actual deficit
    Pernicious Anemia, Pallor, Anorexia, Dyspnea, Weight Loss, Neurological Disturbances
    Food Sources:
    Not found in plant foods or butter
    Liver, Meat, Poultry, Fish, Dairy, Eggs
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • d

  • DBP
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Phthalates (DBP, DEHP, DEP)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body: Toxin: Respiratory, Eye, Skin, Other
    Distribution- in Body: Skin, Respiratory System, Eyes
    Excess Effects: Headaches, Dizziness, Eye Irritant, Skin Irritant, and Throat Irritant
    Deficiency Effects: None Listed
    Food Sources: Processed Meat, Dairy, Fast Food
    Environmental/Geographic Sources: Perfumes, Hair Spray, Soap, Shampoo, Skin Cleanser, Skin Moisturizers, Nail Polish, Shower curtains, Wall paper, Plastic Wrap, Food Packaging, Toys, Medical Tubing, Fluid Bags, Detergents, Plastic Gloves, Flooring, Building Materials, Adhesives, Wood Finishes
    Supplemental information:  Preservative, used to soften and increase flexibility of plastic and vinyl

    Works Cited:
    Norton, Amy. “Unhealthy Phthalates Found in Restaurant Food.” WebMD, WebMD, 29 Mar. 2018, www.webmd.com/diet/news/20180329/unhealthy-phthalates-found-in-restaurant-food.

  • DEA
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Ethanolamine (MEA, DEA, TEA)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Skin, Eyes, Lungs
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System, Eyes
    Excess Effects:
    Allergic Reactions, Skin Irritation, Asthmatic Reactions, Cancer (still being further researched)
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Cosmetics, Blush, Eyeliner, Mascara, Eyeshadows, Foundations, Soaps, Ointments, Shampoos, Hair Dyes, Sunscreen, Cleaning products, Shaving products
    Supplemental information:
      Causes ‘suds’ in soaps and cleansers

    Works Cited:
    “Ethanolamine.” A History of Cosmetics from Ancient Times | Cosmetics Info, cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/ethanolamine

  • DEHP
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Phthalates (DBP, DEHP, DEP)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body: Toxin: Respiratory, Eye, Skin, Other
    Distribution- in Body: Skin, Respiratory System, Eyes
    Excess Effects: Headaches, Dizziness, Eye Irritant, Skin Irritant, and Throat Irritant
    Deficiency Effects: None Listed
    Food Sources: Processed Meat, Dairy, Fast Food
    Environmental/Geographic Sources: Perfumes, Hair Spray, Soap, Shampoo, Skin Cleanser, Skin Moisturizers, Nail Polish, Shower curtains, Wall paper, Plastic Wrap, Food Packaging, Toys, Medical Tubing, Fluid Bags, Detergents, Plastic Gloves, Flooring, Building Materials, Adhesives, Wood Finishes
    Supplemental information:  Preservative, used to soften and increase flexibility of plastic and vinyl

    Works Cited:
    Norton, Amy. “Unhealthy Phthalates Found in Restaurant Food.” WebMD, WebMD, 29 Mar. 2018, www.webmd.com/diet/news/20180329/unhealthy-phthalates-found-in-restaurant-food.

  • Denorex
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Coal Tar, Name Brands: Denorex, Psoriasin, Benatar
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Skin, Treat Psoriasis on affected area, Eczema and Dandruff.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System, Eyes
    Excess Effects:
    Skin Discoloration, Skin Irritation, Allergic Reactions, Sensitivity to Sun, Skin Cancer, Lung Cancer
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Food Coloring
    Environmental/Geographic Sources: Found in medicated (anti-dandruff) shampoo, Soaps, Ointments, Coal Tar is from the production of coke (mainly carbon) and coal gas.
    Supplemental information:
      Medicated, Anti-fungal, Anti-itch, Anti-inflammatory and Anti-parasitic. Considered acutely toxic when inhaled for long periods of time.

    Works Cited:
    “Coal Tar and Coal-Tar Pitch.” National Cancer Institute, www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/substances/coal-tar
    Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. “Products - Hair Dyes.” U S Food and Drug Administration Home Page, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, www.fda.gov/Cosmetics/ProductsIngredients/Products/ucm143066.htm

  • DEP
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Phthalates (DBP, DEHP, DEP)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body: Toxin: Respiratory, Eye, Skin, Other
    Distribution- in Body: Skin, Respiratory System, Eyes
    Excess Effects: Headaches, Dizziness, Eye Irritant, Skin Irritant, and Throat Irritant
    Deficiency Effects: None Listed
    Food Sources: Processed Meat, Dairy, Fast Food
    Environmental/Geographic Sources: Perfumes, Hair Spray, Soap, Shampoo, Skin Cleanser, Skin Moisturizers, Nail Polish, Shower curtains, Wall paper, Plastic Wrap, Food Packaging, Toys, Medical Tubing, Fluid Bags, Detergents, Plastic Gloves, Flooring, Building Materials, Adhesives, Wood Finishes
    Supplemental information:  Preservative, used to soften and increase flexibility of plastic and vinyl

    Works Cited:
    Norton, Amy. “Unhealthy Phthalates Found in Restaurant Food.” WebMD, WebMD, 29 Mar. 2018, www.webmd.com/diet/news/20180329/unhealthy-phthalates-found-in-restaurant-food.

  • Dermaz 99
    Type: Dicarboxylic Acid
    Name: Azelaic Acid
    RDA: None Listed, (varies from person to person), 10% concentration in solution is generally sufficient, 15-20% qualifies as prescription strength
    Importance- to Body:
    Anti-inflammatory, Antibacterial,Treats Acne and Rosacea, Melasma
    Naturally occuring Exfoliant, Anti-inflammatory, Anti-bacterial. Kills acne bacteria. Reduces inflammation clears bumps caused by rosacea, and other visible skin disorders (brown patches, post- acne blemishes), dull skin tone, signs of sensitivities
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin (Surface, Uppermost layers)
    Excess Effects:
    Burning, Stinging, Dry Skin, Redness, Itching, Irritation, Tightness;
    Excess Effects:
    Dizziness, Headaches, Nausea, Contact Dermatitis, Changing of skin color
    Deficiency Effects:

    Food Sources:
    Whole Grains such as Barley, Wheat, and Rye Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Natural biproduct of Malassezia furfur (a yeast that lives symbiotically on human skin)
    Supplemental information:
    Can be found in: Topical Gels, Creams, Foams

  • Dibutylhydroxytoluene
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Eye, Skin, Other, Possible Carcinogen, FDA Classified as "acutely toxic".
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System.
    Excess Effects:
    Skin Irritation, dangerous to eyes if physically exposed, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Cereal, Boxed Foods, Butter, Instant Mashed Potatoes, Chips, Wax Food Packaging, Shortening, Rubber, Plastic, Animal Foods, Cosmetics
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Found in many Cosmetics, Hair Products, Deodorants, Sunscreen, Fragrances, Food
    Supplemental information:
    Synthetic, Preservative, Stabilizes Fat, Considered acutely toxic by the FDA, although there is disagreement. Prevents foods from becoming rancid, May be considered a carcinogen, Had negative effects on rats tested.

    Works Cited:
    “BHA and BHT: A Case for Fresh?” Scientific American, www.scientificamerican.com/article/bha-and-bht-a-case-for-fresh/.

  • dicarbonous acid glycolic acid hydroxyacetic acid hydroacetic acid
    Type: AHA – Alpha Hydroxy Acid
    Name: Glycolic Acid C2H4O3 Also: HOCH2CO2H
    RDA:None Listed
    Importance- to Body:
    Fades Acne Scars, Improves Skin Tone, Improves Texture, Reduces Fine Lines, Moisturizes, Exfoliates, Brightens Skin, Produces Collagen, Creates Thicker Outer Layer of Skin
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin
    Excess Effects:
    Dry Skin, Peeling, Flaking
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Papaya, Pineapple, Unripe Grapes, Sugar Beets, Sugar Cane
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Serums, Lotions, Cleansers, Peel Pads, Creams
    Supplemental information:
    Works faster than other AHAs and absorbs quickly into the skin

    Works Cited:
    Gold, Grace. “The Skin-Care Ingredient That Fights Acne AND Wrinkles At The Same Time” Women's Health, 9 Apr. 2018

  • Dioxane
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) (C2nH4n+2On+1)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Considered Acutely Toxic, Skeletal System, Organs
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skeletal System, Organs
    Excess Effects:
    Organ System Toxicity, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Skin Creams, Lubricants, Laxatives
    Supplemental information:
      Preservative, Thickener, Softener, Solvent

  • dodecyl alcohol
    Type:
    Toxin
    Name:
    Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Skin, Eyes, Other
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin
    Excess Effects:
    Irritation of Skin, Organ Toxicity, Skin Reactions, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Body Wash, Shampoo, Soap, Detergents, Toothpaste
    Supplemental Information:
     The “foaming” in cleansing products Detergent, Surfactant (helps create lather), Considered Acutely Toxic

  • e

  • Electrolyte
    Type: Compound
    Importance- To Body:
    Electrolytes are substances whose solution conducts electric currents. This solution is the same by which chemical processes, such as nerve impulses, take place.
    Distribution- In Body:
    Most all tissues and systems throughout human body.
    Excess Effects:
    None Listed.
    Deficiency Effects:
    Dehydration, Hyponatremia.
    Sources Food:
    A home-made electrolyte drink can be made by using water, sugar and salt in precise proportions. Sports drinks, Milk, Nuts, many fruits and vegetables.
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:

    Supplemental information:
    • Solutions of acids, bases, and salts conduct an electric current readily.
    • Solutions of sugar, alcohol, or glycerol do not conduct electrical currents readily.

  • Ergocalciferol
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: D
    Name: Antirachitic Factor, Ergocalciferol, Cholecalciferol
    RDA: 400 IU
    Importance- to Body:
    Functionally a hormone; increases calcium blood levels by enhancing absorption of calcium; in conjunction with PTH, mobilizes calcium from bones; both mechanisms serve calcium homeostasis of blood (essential for normal neuromuscular function, blood clotting, bone and took formation).
    Distribution- in Body:
    Group of chemically distinct sterols; concentrated in liver and to lesser extent in skin, kidneys, spleen, other tissues; stable to heat, light, acids, alkalis, oxidation.
    Excess Effects:
    1800 IU/day may be toxic to children, massive doses induce toxicity in adults; symptoms: Vomiting, Diarrhea, Weight Loss, Calcification of Soft Tissues, Renal Damage
    Deficiency Effects:
    Faulty mineralization of Bones and Teeth, Rickets in children, Osteomalacia in adults; Poor Muscle Tone, Restlessness, Irritability
    Food Sources:
    Fish Liver Oils, Eggs Yolk, Fortified Milk.
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is chief form in body cells; produced in skin by irradiation of 7- dehydrocholesterol by UV light; active form (1,25- dihydroxyvitamin D3) produced by chemical modification of vitamin D3 in liver, then kidneys.
    Supplemental information:

  • Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae
    Type: Parasite
    Name: Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae
    Importance- to Body:
    Cutaneous Infection
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin; Subacute cellulitis most commonly on the fingertips. It is slightly raised and violaceous.
    Epidemiology: Thin, pleomorphic, nonsporulating gram-positive rod
    Food Sources:
    Main host is swine, Lives in the mucoid exterior slime layer of fish
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:

    Diagonosis:
    Microbiologic cultures
    Treatment:
    Resolves in 3 to 4 weeks without treatment. If treatment is needed, most strains susceptible to penicillins, cephalosporins, clindamycin, imipenem, and ciprofloxacin. Antibiotic duration usually 2 weeks. if necessary.
    Supplemental information:
    Source: Cutaneous Manifestations Of Waterborne Infections by: Lucinda Elko, MD, RPh, Keith Rosenbach, MD, PhD*, and John Sinnott, MD

  • Ethanolamine
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Ethanolamine (MEA, DEA, TEA)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Skin, Eyes, Lungs
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System, Eyes
    Excess Effects:
    Allergic Reactions, Skin Irritation, Asthmatic Reactions, Cancer (still being further researched)
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Cosmetics, Blush, Eyeliner, Mascara, Eyeshadows, Foundations, Soaps, Ointments, Shampoos, Hair Dyes, Sunscreen, Cleaning products, Shaving products
    Supplemental information:
      Causes ‘suds’ in soaps and cleansers

    Works Cited:
    “Ethanolamine.” A History of Cosmetics from Ancient Times | Cosmetics Info, cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/ethanolamine

  • f

  • Finacea
    Type: Dicarboxylic Acid
    Name: Azelaic Acid
    RDA: None Listed, (varies from person to person), 10% concentration in solution is generally sufficient, 15-20% qualifies as prescription strength
    Importance- to Body:
    Anti-inflammatory, Antibacterial,Treats Acne and Rosacea, Melasma
    Naturally occuring Exfoliant, Anti-inflammatory, Anti-bacterial. Kills acne bacteria. Reduces inflammation clears bumps caused by rosacea, and other visible skin disorders (brown patches, post- acne blemishes), dull skin tone, signs of sensitivities
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin (Surface, Uppermost layers)
    Excess Effects:
    Burning, Stinging, Dry Skin, Redness, Itching, Irritation, Tightness;
    Excess Effects:
    Dizziness, Headaches, Nausea, Contact Dermatitis, Changing of skin color
    Deficiency Effects:

    Food Sources:
    Whole Grains such as Barley, Wheat, and Rye Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Natural biproduct of Malassezia furfur (a yeast that lives symbiotically on human skin)
    Supplemental information:
    Can be found in: Topical Gels, Creams, Foams

  • Fluorine
    FluorineType: Trace Element
    Periodic Element: (F)
    RDA: 1.5-4 mg Daily requirement is 0.7 part/million in water.
    Importance- To Body:
    Contended to hardens bones and teeth. Important for tooth structure; may help prevent dental caries (particularly in children) and osteoporosis in adults. Suppresses bacterial action in mouth.
    Distribution- In Body:
    * Approx. % of Body Mass
    Component of bones, teeth, other body tissues; excreted in urine.
    Excess Effects:
    Mottling of Teeth
    Deficiency Effects:
    Tendency toward dental caries, Osteoporosis, Unknown
    Sources Food:
    Fluoridated water, Toothpaste, Milk, Tea
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Folacin
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B9
    Name: Folic Acid (Folacin),Folinic Acid
    RDA:0.4 mg
    Importance- to Body:
    Basis of coenzymes that act in synthesis of methionine and certain other amino acids, choline, DNA; essential for formation of red blood cells.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Synthesized by enteric bacteria. The pure vitamin is bright-yellow crystaline compound; stable to heat; easily oxidized in acidic solutions and light; stored mainly in liver.
    Excess Effects:
    None listed
    Deficiency Effects:< br/> Macrocytic or Megaloblastic Anemia; Gastrointestinal Disturbances, Diarrhea
    Food Sources:
    Liver, Deep-Green Vegetables, Yeast, Lean Beef, Eggs, Veal, Whole Grains
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Folic acid
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B9
    Name: Folic Acid (Folacin),Folinic Acid
    RDA:0.4 mg
    Importance- to Body:
    Basis of coenzymes that act in synthesis of methionine and certain other amino acids, choline, DNA; essential for formation of red blood cells.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Synthesized by enteric bacteria. The pure vitamin is bright-yellow crystaline compound; stable to heat; easily oxidized in acidic solutions and light; stored mainly in liver.
    Excess Effects:
    None listed
    Deficiency Effects:< br/> Macrocytic or Megaloblastic Anemia; Gastrointestinal Disturbances, Diarrhea
    Food Sources:
    Liver, Deep-Green Vegetables, Yeast, Lean Beef, Eggs, Veal, Whole Grains
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Folinic acid
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B9
    Name: Folic Acid (Folacin),Folinic Acid
    RDA:0.4 mg
    Importance- to Body:
    Basis of coenzymes that act in synthesis of methionine and certain other amino acids, choline, DNA; essential for formation of red blood cells.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Synthesized by enteric bacteria. The pure vitamin is bright-yellow crystaline compound; stable to heat; easily oxidized in acidic solutions and light; stored mainly in liver.
    Excess Effects:
    None listed
    Deficiency Effects:< br/> Macrocytic or Megaloblastic Anemia; Gastrointestinal Disturbances, Diarrhea
    Food Sources:
    Liver, Deep-Green Vegetables, Yeast, Lean Beef, Eggs, Veal, Whole Grains
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Formaldehyde
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Formaldehyde (CH2O)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Skin, Eyes, Lungs
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System
    Excess Effects:
    Vomiting, Watery Eyes, Burning Throat, Skin Irritation, Asthmatic Attacks, Nausea, Headaches, Cancer (still being further researched, shown to cause cancer in lab animals), Organ Damage
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Apples, Bananas, Pears, Cauliflower, Beef, Pork, Chicken, Cod
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Household Products, Air Fresheners, Cleaning Products, Cigarettes, E-Cigarettes, Vehicle Exhaust, Plywood, Glue, Insulation, Lotion, Shampoo, Cosmetics, Soap, Plastic Bottles
    Supplemental information:
     Can be produced from natural and manmade products, considered very toxic and hazardous air pollutant. Also known as Formalin, Methanal, Methanediol, Formic aldehyde, Methyl aldehyde, Methylene glycol, Methylene oxide

    Works Cited:
    "ATSDR - Medical Management Guidelines (MMGs): Formaldehyde." Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Web. http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/mmg/mmg.asp?id=216&tid=39
    "Formaldehyde." American Cancer Society | Information and Resources about for Cancer: Breast, Colon, Lung, Prostate, Skin. Web. http://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/formaldehyde.html

  • Formalin
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Formaldehyde (CH2O)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Skin, Eyes, Lungs
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System
    Excess Effects:
    Vomiting, Watery Eyes, Burning Throat, Skin Irritation, Asthmatic Attacks, Nausea, Headaches, Cancer (still being further researched, shown to cause cancer in lab animals), Organ Damage
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Apples, Bananas, Pears, Cauliflower, Beef, Pork, Chicken, Cod
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Household Products, Air Fresheners, Cleaning Products, Cigarettes, E-Cigarettes, Vehicle Exhaust, Plywood, Glue, Insulation, Lotion, Shampoo, Cosmetics, Soap, Plastic Bottles
    Supplemental information:
     Can be produced from natural and manmade products, considered very toxic and hazardous air pollutant. Also known as Formalin, Methanal, Methanediol, Formic aldehyde, Methyl aldehyde, Methylene glycol, Methylene oxide

    Works Cited:
    "ATSDR - Medical Management Guidelines (MMGs): Formaldehyde." Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Web. http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/mmg/mmg.asp?id=216&tid=39
    "Formaldehyde." American Cancer Society | Information and Resources about for Cancer: Breast, Colon, Lung, Prostate, Skin. Web. http://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/formaldehyde.html

  • Formic aldehyde
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Formaldehyde (CH2O)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Skin, Eyes, Lungs
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System
    Excess Effects:
    Vomiting, Watery Eyes, Burning Throat, Skin Irritation, Asthmatic Attacks, Nausea, Headaches, Cancer (still being further researched, shown to cause cancer in lab animals), Organ Damage
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Apples, Bananas, Pears, Cauliflower, Beef, Pork, Chicken, Cod
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Household Products, Air Fresheners, Cleaning Products, Cigarettes, E-Cigarettes, Vehicle Exhaust, Plywood, Glue, Insulation, Lotion, Shampoo, Cosmetics, Soap, Plastic Bottles
    Supplemental information:
     Can be produced from natural and manmade products, considered very toxic and hazardous air pollutant. Also known as Formalin, Methanal, Methanediol, Formic aldehyde, Methyl aldehyde, Methylene glycol, Methylene oxide

    Works Cited:
    "ATSDR - Medical Management Guidelines (MMGs): Formaldehyde." Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Web. http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/mmg/mmg.asp?id=216&tid=39
    "Formaldehyde." American Cancer Society | Information and Resources about for Cancer: Breast, Colon, Lung, Prostate, Skin. Web. http://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/formaldehyde.html

  • Fragrance
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Fragrance (Parfum)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Skin, Eyes, Respiratory System, Other
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Eyes, Respiratory System
    Excess Effects:
    Allergic Reactions, Skin Reactions, Damage to Organs from Inhalation
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Body Wash, Body Lotion, Deodorant, Makeup, Makeup Wipes, Skin Toners, Perfumes, Exfoliants, Sunscreen, Shampoo, Soap, Detergents, Toothpaste
    Supplemental information:
     Derived from Petroleum (crude oil), be aware “Fragrance” can stand for more than 3,000 ingredients!

    Works Cited
    Price, Annie. “Liver Tumors, Brain & Kidney Damage, Weird Allergy-Like Symptoms & Headaches Linked to Candle & Shampoo Ingredients.” Dr. Axe, Dr. Axe, 15 Mar. 2018, draxe.com/dangers-synthetic-scents/.

  • Francisella species
    Type: Bacteria
    Name: Francisella species
    Importance- to Body:
    Cutaneous Infection
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin; Typically ulceroglandular appearance but can appear with lymphadenopathy alone
    Epidemiology: Small, gram-negative cocco-bacilli
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    associated with northern hemisphere, rabbits.
    Diagonosis:
    Francisella tularensis is difficult to grow in culture. Diagnosed often by clinical history and serology. Other Francisella strains grow on routine culture.
    Treatment:
    treptomycin, Most strains are susceptible to quinolones, gentamycin, tetracyclines, ceftriaxone, ceftazidime, cefepime, imipenem, and meropenem. Antibiotic duration usually 2 weeks.
    Supplemental information:
    Source: Cutaneous Manifestations Of Waterborne Infections by: Lucinda Elko, MD, RPh, Keith Rosenbach, MD, PhD*, and John Sinnott, MD

  • g

  • Glycolic Acid
    Type: AHA – Alpha Hydroxy Acid
    Name: Glycolic Acid C2H4O3 Also: HOCH2CO2H
    RDA:None Listed
    Importance- to Body:
    Fades Acne Scars, Improves Skin Tone, Improves Texture, Reduces Fine Lines, Moisturizes, Exfoliates, Brightens Skin, Produces Collagen, Creates Thicker Outer Layer of Skin
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin
    Excess Effects:
    Dry Skin, Peeling, Flaking
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Papaya, Pineapple, Unripe Grapes, Sugar Beets, Sugar Cane
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Serums, Lotions, Cleansers, Peel Pads, Creams
    Supplemental information:
    Works faster than other AHAs and absorbs quickly into the skin

    Works Cited:
    Gold, Grace. “The Skin-Care Ingredient That Fights Acne AND Wrinkles At The Same Time” Women's Health, 9 Apr. 2018

  • h

  • Histidine
    Type: Essential Amino Acid
    Name: Histidine (His), Chemical Formula C6H9N302
    RDA: Doses that are therapeutic of histidine range from .5 to 20 grams per day, although 30 grams of histidine in supplemental form has shown no adverse side effects.
    Importance- to body:
    Develops and maintains healthy tissues and is essential in maintaining the myelin sheath that coat nervous cells and send messages from the brain to other organs in the body. Histidine is also being further researched on its effects of preventing radiation damage (histidine can detox the body naturally and produce white and red blood cells).
    Distribution- in body: Brain.
    Excess effects:
    Stress, Anxiety. Those with schizophrenia are found having higher levels of histidine.
    Deficiency effects:
    Eczema, stress, anxiety, disorientation, fatigue.
    Food Sources:
    Fish, Meats, Eggs, Dairy products.
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Supplemental information: May be able to treat mental disorders and sexual dysfunction. Available in both supplemental and powder form, Histidine is recommended for those with arthritis or those who are chronically ill. Histidinemia is a very rare disorder where there are high levels of histidine in urine and blood because of the insufficient amount of the enzyme (histidase) that’s needed to break down histidine. Histidine is used as a medicine!

    Works Cited:
    1. C.D.N., Erica Wickham M.S. R.D. “What Foods Contain Histidine?” LIVESTRONG.COM, Leaf Group, 3 Oct. 2017, www.livestrong.com/article/517676-what-foods-contain-histidine/.

  • Hydrogen
    HydrogenType: Major Element
    Periodic Element: (H)
    RDA: None listed
    Importance- To Body:
    A component of all organic molecules, as an ion (proton), it influences the pH of body fluids. The natural cycle of hydrogen production and consumption by organisms is called the hydrogen cycle.
    Distribution- In Body:
    9.5 Approx % Body Mass
    Excess Effects:
    Asphyxiation
    Deficiency Effects:
    None listed
    Sources:
    H2 is a product of some types of anaerobic metabolism and is produced by several microorganisms, usually via reactions catalyzed by iron- or nickel-containing enzymes called hydrogenases. These enzymes catalyze the reversible redox reaction between H2 and its component two protons and two electrons.
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    Hydrogen, as atomic H, is the most abundant chemical element in the universe, making up 75% of normal matter by mass and more than 90% by number of atoms.
    Supplemental information:

  • hydrogen sulfate
    Type:
    Toxin
    Name:
    Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Skin, Eyes, Other
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin
    Excess Effects:
    Irritation of Skin, Organ Toxicity, Skin Reactions, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Body Wash, Shampoo, Soap, Detergents, Toothpaste
    Supplemental Information:
     The “foaming” in cleansing products Detergent, Surfactant (helps create lather), Considered Acutely Toxic

  • Hydroquinone
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Hydroquinone (Tocopheryl Acetate) C6H4(OH)2
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Skin
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System, Area Applied
    Excess Effects:
    Skin Cancer
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Blueberries, Pears, Beans, Broccoli, Onions, Tea, Red Wine, Wheat Cereals, Coffee
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Spot Treatments, Anti-Aging Products, Skin Lighteners, Hair Conditioners, Finger Nail Products, Facial Moisturizers, Facial Cleansers
    Supplemental information:
    ‘Artificial’ Skin Lightener that Decreases the Production of Melanin (used to lighten age spots, acne spots, hyperpigmentation, melasma)

    Works Cited:
    “The Truth About Hydroquinone by MedicineNet.com.” MedicineNet,
    www.medicinenet.com/fda_proposes_hydroquinone_ban/views.htm.

  • Hydroxycobalamin
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B12
    Name: Cyanocobalamin, Hydroxycobalamin, Methylcobalamin
    RDA:3-6 µg
    Importance- to Body:
    Functions as coenzyme in all cells, particularly in gastrointestinal tract, nervous system, and bone marrow; in bone marrow, acts in synthesis of DNA; when absent, erythrocytes do not divide but continue to increase in size.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Most complex vitamin; contains cobalt; stable to heat; inactivated by light and strongly acidic or basic solutions; intrinsic factor required for transport across intestinal membrane; stored principally in liver; liver stores of 2000-3000 µg sufficient to provide for body needs for 3-5 years.
    Excess Effects:
    None listed
    Deficiency Effects:
    Most cases reflect impaired absorption rather than actual deficit
    Pernicious Anemia, Pallor, Anorexia, Dyspnea, Weight Loss, Neurological Disturbances
    Food Sources:
    Not found in plant foods or butter
    Liver, Meat, Poultry, Fish, Dairy, Eggs
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • i

  • Iodine
    IodineType: Lesser Element
    Periodic Element: (I)
    RDA: 0.15 mg- 0.1-0.2 mg in adults
    Importance- To Body:
    Required for synthesis of thyroxine which is essential for maintenance of normal cellular respiration, and to form thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), which are important in regulating cellular metabolic rate.
    Distribution- In Body:
    0.1 Approx. % of Body Mass
    Found in all tissues, but in high concentrations only in thyroid gland; absorption controlled by blood levels of protein-bound iodine; excreted in urine.
    Excess Effects:
    Inhibited Activity of Thyroid, Depresses Synthesis of Thyroid Hormones
    Deficiency Effects:
    Hypothyroidism: Cretinism in infants, Myxedema in adults (if less severe, Simple Goiter)
    Sources Food:
    Iodized Table Salt, Fish, Cod Liver Oil, Shellfish, Vegetables Grown in iodine-rich soil
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    None listed
    Supplement Info:

  • Iron
    IronType: Lesser Element
    Periodic Element: (Fe)
    RDA: Males: 10 mg; Females: 15 mg- about 16 mg in adults
    Importance- To Body:
    Component of hemoglobin, myoglobin which binds bulk of oxygen transported within red blood cells. Necessary for transport of oxygen to tissues, cellular oxidation. Component of cytochromes, which function in oxidative phosphorylation.
    Distribution- In Body:
    0.1 Approx. % of Body Mass
    60% to 70% in hemoglobin; remainder in skeletal muscle, liver, spleen, bone marrow bound to ferritin; only 2% to 10% of dietary iron is absorbed because of mucosal barrier; lost from body in perspiration, etc.
    Excess Effects:
    Damage to Liver (Cirrhosis), Heart, Pancreas, Hemosiderin Deposits, Bloody Diarrhea
    Deficiency Effects:
    Iron-deficiency Anemia; Pallor, Fatigue, Gastrointestinal problems, Flatulence, Anorexia, Constipation, Paresthesias
    Sources Food:
    Liver, Egg Yolk, Red Meat, Shellfish, Beans, Dried Fruit, Nut, Raisins, Legumes, Molasses
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    None listed
    Supplement Info:

  • Isoleucine
    Type: Essential Amino Acid
    Name: Isoleucine (Ile), Chemical formula C6H12NO2
    Importance- to body:
    Supports blood clotting during a wound and aids in muscle repair, helps to improve stamina and increase energy levels, also regulating levels of blood sugar.
    Distribution- in body:
    Isoleucine is broken down in the muscle tissue to produce energy. Converted in the liver to blood sugar.
    Excess effects:
    Pellagra, kidney and liver failure, hypoglycemia.
    Deficiency effects:
    Dizziness, headaches, sleepiness/drowsiness, depression, irritability, disorientation and other symptoms similar to hypoglycemia.
    Food Sources:
    Meat, Fish, Eggs, Nuts, Seeds, Soybeans, Spirulina, Wheat germ, Legumes.
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Supplemental information:
    Should be paired with valine and leucine (three branched chain amino acids). Very important for athletes or body builders to take supplement to aid in healing of muscles, increase stamina, and boost energy.
    Works Cited:
    1. Garlick, and Peter J. “Nature of Human Hazards Associated with Excessive Intake of Amino Acids | The Journal of Nutrition | Oxford Academic.” OUP Academic, Oxford University Press, 1 Oct. 2004, academic.oup.com/jn/article/134/6/1633S/4688868.
    2. “Branched-Chain Amino Acids: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Dosage, and Warning.”WebMD, WebMD, www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1005/branched-chain-amino-acids.

  • k

  • Keratin
    Type: Protein
    Name: Keratin
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Skin, Hair, Nails
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin
    Excess Effects:
    Too much protein build-up in body
    Deficiency Effects:
    Weak and Brittle Nails, Hair Thinning, Hair Loss
    Food Sources:
    Eggs, Kale, Spinach, Protein-Rich Foods, Vitamin A Foods, Iron-Rich Foods
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Supplements (Powder and Capsule), Hair Treatments, Shampoos, Conditioners, Zinc, B Vitamins, Omega 3 fatty acids
    Supplemental information:
    Insoluble in Water, Protective Protein, Keratin in Hair is a protective layer from the environment

  • l

  • L-ascorbic acid
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: C
    Name: Ascorbic Acid,L-Ascorbic Acid
    RDA: 60 mg (100 mg for those who smoke)
    Importance- to Body:
    Acts in hydroxylation reactions in formation of nearly all connective tissues; in conversion of tryptophan to serotonin; in conversion of cholesterol to bile salts; helps protect vitamins A and E and dietary fats from oxidation.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Simple 6-carbon crystalline compound derived from glucose; rapidly destroyed by heat, light, alkalis; about 1500 mg is stored in body, particularly in adrenal gland, retina, intestine, pituitary; when tissues are saturated.
    Excess Effects:
    Generally large doses may cause Gastrointestinal Discomfort, Headache, Trouble Sleeping, and Flushing of the Skin. Results of mega doses (10 or more times RDA); Enhanced Mobilization of Bone Minerals and Blood Coagulation; Exacerbation of Gout; Kidney Stone Formation
    Deficiency Effects:
    Defective formation of intercellular cement; Fleeting Joint Pains, Poor Tooth and Bone Growth; Poor Wound Healing, Increased Susceptibility to Infection; Extreme deficit causes Scurvy (more generally known as Periodontal Disease today).
    Food Sources:
    Fruit, Tomatoes, Cantaloupe, Strawberries, Vegetables, Potatoes, Leafy Greens
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Lactic Acid
    Type: Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA)
    Name: Lactic Acid
    RDA:None Listed
    Importance- to body:
    Exfoliant (sloughs off dead skin cells), Used for Sensitive and Dry Skin, Gentle, Hydrating, Less irritating than other AHAs, Brightens Skin
    Distribution- in body:
    Skin
    Excess effects:
    Irritation, Dryness, Rashes, Peeling, Redness, Tenderness, Swelling, Itching, Increased Sunburn
    Deficiency effects:
    Dull Skin, Dry Skin, Whiteheads, Blackheads
    Food Sources:
    Yogurt, Sourdough Bread, Pickled Vegetables, Wine, Salads and Dressings
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Face Cleansers, Serums, Creams, Peels, Moisturizers
    Supplemental information:

    Sources::
    Gromisch, Maryann. “What Foods Contain Lactic Acid?” LIVESTRONG.COM, Leaf Group, 3 Oct. 2017
    Trench, Brooke Le Poer, and Kara Nesvig. “6 Things You Should Know Before Putting This Popular Acid on Your Skin” Allure, Allure Magazine, 23 Oct. 2017

  • Lead
    LeadType: Periodic Element
    Periodic Element: (Pb)
    RDA:Not established.
    Importance- To Body:
    Lead has no confirmed biological role. High levels of calcium and iron tend to provide some protection from lead poisoning; low levels cause increased susceptibility.
    Distribution- In Body:
    Lead enters the body via inhalation, ingestion, or skin absorption. Almost all inhaled lead is absorbed into the body; for ingestion, the rate is 20–70%, with children absorbing a higher percentage than adults.
    Excess Effects:
    Lead Poisoning, most ingested lead is absorbed into the bloodstream. The primary cause of its toxicity is its predilection for interfering with the proper functioning of enzymes. By mimicking calcium, lead can cross the blood-brain barrier. It degrades the myelin sheaths of neurons, reduces their numbers, interferes with neurotransmission routes, and decreases neuronal growth.
    Effects of Lead Poisoning
    • Blindness in parts of visual field
    • Hearing Loss
    • Unusual Tastes
    • Slurred Speech
    • Blue Line along the Gum
    • Kidney Failure
    • Anemia
    • Tremor
    • Pain
    • Delayed Reaction Time
    • Loss of coordination
    • Convulsions/Seizure
    • Weakness
    • Pregnancy Complications
    • Insomnia
    • Loss of Appetite
    • Sperm Dysfunction
    • Decreased libido
    • Depression
    • Irritability
    • Cognitive Deficits
    • Memory Loss
    • Headache
    • Personality Change
    • Delerium
    • Coma
    • Nausea
    • Diarrhea
    • Constipation
    • Wrist and Foot Drop
    • Tingling
    • Malaise
    • Fatigue
    • Weight Loss
    • Pallor
    • Lividity
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Sources Food:
    Fruit and vegetables can be contaminated by high levels of lead in the soils they were grown in. Soil can be contaminated through particulate accumulation from lead in pipes, lead paint, and residual emissions from leaded gasoline.
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    Elevated concentrations of lead persist in soils and sediments in post-industrial and urban areas with industrial emissions. Poisoning typically results from ingestion of food or water contaminated with lead, and less commonly after accidental ingestion of contaminated soil, dust, or lead-based paint. Seawater products can contain lead if affected by nearby industrial waters.
    Supplement Information:
    Treatment for lead poisoning normally involves the administration of dimercaprol and succimer.[242] Acute cases may require the use of disodium calcium edetate, the calcium chelate, and the disodium salt of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). It has a greater affinity for lead than calcium, with the result that lead chelate is formed by exchange and excreted in the urine, leaving behind harmless calcium.

  • Leucine
    Type: Essential Amino Acid
    Name: Leucine (L, Leu), Chemical formula C6H13NO2
    Importance- to Body:
    Promotes a healthy liver, aids in management of cholesterol, stimulates insulin and regulates blood sugar (to lower risk of diabetes) and lowers the risk of obesity. Leu is a muscle a helpful muscle stimulant, so it is recommended body builders or people building muscle mass should take a supplement before and after their workout routine.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Metabolism of Leucine occurs in the tissues of the body, but mainly in the liver and muscle tissues.
    Excess Effects:
    Poor Memory, Failure of the Liver, Rashes, Failure of the Kidneys, Hypoglycemia, Pellagra.
    Deficiency Effects:
    Poor Balance and Coordination, Fatigue, Sluggishness, Headaches, Irritability/Anxiety.
    Food Sources: Lentils, Seaweed, Soybeans, Meats, Beans, Dairy Products.
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Supplemental information:
    One of the three branched chained amino acids (BCAAs – valine and isoleucine are the two others). Vital for growing muscle mass because Leucine stimulates protein synthesis in order to build muscle.

  • Lithium
    LiType: Essential Mineral
    Periodic Element: (Li)
    RDA: 1,000 µg/day is suggested for a 70 kg adult provisionally. As evidence now appears to be sufficient to accept lithium as essential.
    Importance- To Body:
    The biochemical mechanisms of action of lithium appear to be multifactorial and are intercorrelated with the functions of several enzymes, hormones and vitamins, as well as with growth and transforming factors.
    Distribution- In Body:
    nearly all vertebrate tissue and body fluids contain lithium ranging from 21 to 763 ppb.
    Excess Effects:
    The metal itself is a handling hazard because contact with moisture produces the caustic lithium hydroxide. Lithium dust or compounds may irritate the nose and throat, higher exposure can cause a buildup of fluid in the lungs, leading to pulmonary edema. May increase risk of developing Ebstein's cardiac anomaly in infants born to women who take lithium during the first trimester of pregnancy.
    Deficiency Effects:
    Increased Suicides, homicides and arrest rates are now associated with low levels.
    Sources Food:
    Primary food sources of lithium are grains and vegetables, Seafood, and, in some areas, drinking water also contains significant amounts. Human intake varies depending on location and diet. Marine organisms tend to bioaccumulate lithium more than terrestrial organisms.
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    Lithium salts are extracted from water in mineral springs, brine pools, and brine deposits.
    Lithium is present in seawater, but commercially viable methods of extraction have yet to be developed.
    Supplemental information:

  • Loboa loboi
    Type: Fungus
    Name: Loboa loboi
    Importance- to Body:
    Cutaneous Infection
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin; Skin nodules and plaques resembling keloid scars
    Epidemiology: Fungus
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    mainly in South and Central America; associated with dolphin exposure
    Diagonosis:
    Tissue fungal culture
    Treatment:
    Treat with cryotherapy and surgical excision. Poor response to antifungal therapy.
    Supplemental information:
    Source: Cutaneous Manifestations Of Waterborne Infections by: Lucinda Elko, MD, RPh, Keith Rosenbach, MD, PhD*, and John Sinnott, MD

  • Lysine
    Type: Essential Amino Acid
    Name: Lysine (Lys, K), Chemical Formula C6H14N202
    Importance- to body: Improves athletic performance, treats and prevents cold sores (herpes simplex virus), creates carnitine (carnitine converts fatty acids to energy), helps form collagen (hair, nails), helps body in the absorption of calcium, supports a healthy gut, reduces symptoms of diabetes, aids in healthy bones.
    Distribution- in Body:
    In the gut, Liver, Muscle Tissues.
    Excess Effects:
    Stomach Discomfort, Diarrhea, High Cholesterol, Gallstones.
    Deficiency Effects:
    Loss of Appetite, Mood Swings, Loss of Hair, Anemia, Stunted Growth.
    Food Sources:
    Meats (Beef, Lamb, Turkey, Chicken, Pork), Tuna, Shrimp, Soy Beans, Eggs, White Beans, Pumpkin Seeds, Beans, Cheeses, Eggs.
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Supplemental Information:
    Aids in the recovery of herpes virus, and also improves mood disorders (depression) and can treat anxiety. First identified by Dreschel in 1889.
    Works Cited:
    1. Uddin, Rae. “Signs & Symptoms of Lysine Deficiency.” LIVESTRONG.COM, Leaf Group, 3 Oct. 2017, www.livestrong.com/article/342821-signs-symptoms-of-lysine-deficiency/.
    2. Edwards, Rebekah. “Top 10 Highest L-Lysine-Rich Foods (It Fights Herpes...and Maybe Even Cancer).” Dr. Axe, Dr. Axe, 15 June 2017, draxe.com/l-lysine-benefits/.

  • m

  • Magnesium
    MagnesiumType: Lesser Element
    Periodic Element: (Mg)
    RDA: 300-350 mg - about 1.2g
    Importance- To Body:
    Important cofactor in a number of metabolic reactions, present in bone. Necessary for proper bone structure, regulation of nerve and muscle action. Catalyst for intracellular enzymatic reactions, in relation to carbohydrate metabolism. Constituent of many coenzymes that play a role in conversion of ATP to ADP. Required for normal muscle and nerve irritability.
    Distribution- In Body:
    0.1 Approx. % of Body Mass
    In all cells, particularly abundant in bones; absorption parallels that of calcium; excreted chiefly in urine.
    Excess Effects:
    Diarrhea
    Deficiency Effects:
    Tetany; Neuromuscular Problems, Tremors; seen in alcoholism and severe renal disease
    Sources Food:
    Dairy products, Milk, Leafy Green Vegetables, Meat, Nuts, Legumes, Whole-Grain Cereals
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Mandelic Acid
    Type: Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA, Amygdalic Acid)
    Name: Mandelic Acid
    RDA: None Listed
    Importance-to Body:
    Anti-Aging, Accelerates Cell Turnover, Sloughs Dead Skin Cells, Strengthens Collagen, Reduces appearance of Melasma, Antibacterial, Beneficial for Dry Skin
    Distribution-in Body:
    As an antibacterial Mandelic Acid penetrates the skin’s surface and helps to regulate sebum production by keeping pores clear of clogging oils and dead skin cells that lead to breakouts and oily skin. It also works by dissolving the dead skin cells on the surface of the skin.
    Excess Effects:
    Caution is advised when using chemical peels with higher acid concentrations. While this type of treatment mainly interacts with surface layer skin cells, it does stimulate tissue remodeling and collagen fiber production. People with darker complexions or sensitive skin are therefore at higher risk of discoloration and scarring, two side effects that are common to all chemical peels. Immediately after applying Mandelic Acid, the skin will feel sensitive. It may also become dry, a little flaky and take on a pinkish color. It typically takes two to three days for the skin to fully heal. During this time, it’s especially important to avoid sun exposure, scrubs, and strong cleaning agents. Using a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is recommended. Deficiency Effects:
    Dry Skin
    Food Sources:
    Bitter Almonds
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Serums, Exfoliants, Peels, Gels, Cleansers
    Supplemental Information:
    Apply Mandelic Acid as part of your evening skincare routine, after cleansing and before moisturizing. Deliver it to the skin in small amounts using light patting motions that press the product into your skin. Allow it to absorb properly before applying moisturizer. Mandelic Acid works to accelerate cell turnover by dissolving the tiny bonds that hold skin cells together, helping to remove dead skin on the surface of the skin that can lead to dull complexions as well as fine lines. It is also used in treating common skin problems such as photo-ageing, irregular pigmentation and acne.

  • Manganese
    ManganeseType: Trace Element
    Periodic Element: (Mn)
    RDA: 2.5-5 mg (about 0.4g)
    Importance- To Body:
    Necessary for formation of hemoglobin, activation of enzymes. Acts with enzymes catalyzing synthesis of fatty acids, cholesterol, urea; needed for normal neural function, lactation, oxidation of carbohydrates, protein hydrolysis.
    Distribution- In Body:
    * Approx. % of Body Mass
    Most concentrated in liver, kidneys, spleen; excreted largely in feces.
    Excess Effects:
    Muscular Weakness, Nervous System Disturbances
    Deficiency Effects:
    Subnormal Tissue Respiration, Growth Retardation, Bone and Joint Abnormalities, Nervous System Disturbances, Reproductive Abnormalities
    Sources Food:
    Meats, Fruit, Bananas, Bran, Beans, Leafy-Green Vegetables, Nuts, Legumes, Whole Grains
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    Not found as a free element in nature; it is often found in other minerals in combination with iron.
    Supplemental Information:

  • MEA
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Ethanolamine (MEA, DEA, TEA)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Skin, Eyes, Lungs
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System, Eyes
    Excess Effects:
    Allergic Reactions, Skin Irritation, Asthmatic Reactions, Cancer (still being further researched)
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Cosmetics, Blush, Eyeliner, Mascara, Eyeshadows, Foundations, Soaps, Ointments, Shampoos, Hair Dyes, Sunscreen, Cleaning products, Shaving products
    Supplemental information:
      Causes ‘suds’ in soaps and cleansers

    Works Cited:
    “Ethanolamine.” A History of Cosmetics from Ancient Times | Cosmetics Info, cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/ethanolamine

  • Menaquinones
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: K
    Name: Phylloquinone, Menaquinones,Phytomenadione (K1)
    RDA:
    Males: 70 µg
    Females: 55 µg
    Obtaining adequate amount is not a problem.
    Importance- to Body:
    Essential for formation of clotting proteins and some other proteins made by liver; as intermediate in electron transport chain, participates in oxidative phosphorylation in all body cells.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Most synthesized by coliform bacteria in large intestine. In a number of related compounds known as quinones; small amounts stored in liver; heat resistant; destroyed by acids, alkalis, light, oxidizing agents; activity antagonized by certain anticoagulants and antibiotics that interfere with synthetic activity of enteric bacteria.
    Excess Effects:
    None listed, (not stored in appreciable amounts).
    Deficiency Effects:
    Easy Bruising and Easy Bleeding (prolonged clotting time)
    Food Sources:
    Leafy Green Vegetables, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Pork Liver
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Mercury
    MercuryType: Periodic Element
    Periodic Element: (Hg)
    RDA: None
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxic
    Distribution- In Body:
    Indiscriminant Absorption
    Excess Effects:
    Symptoms typically include: Sensory impairment (vision, hearing, speech), Disturbed Sensation and a Lack of Coordination. The type and degree of symptoms exhibited depend upon the individual toxin, the dose, and the method and duration of exposure. Case control studies have shown effects such as Tremors, Impaired Cognitive Skills, and Sleep Disturbance in workers with chronic exposure to mercury vapor even at low concentrations in the range 0.7–42 μg/m3. A study has shown that acute exposure (4 – 8 hours) to calculated elemental mercury levels of 1.1 to 44 mg/m3 resulted in Chest pain, Dyspnea, Cough, Hemoptysis, Impairment of Pulmonary Function, and evidence of Interstitial Pneumonitis. Acute exposure to mercury vapor has been shown to result in profound Central Nervous System effects, including Psychotic Reactions characterized by Delirium, Hallucinations, and Suicidal Tendencies. Occupational exposure has resulted in broad-ranging functional disturbance, including Eerethism, Irritability, Excitability, Excessive Shyness, and Insomnia. With continuing exposure, a Fine Tremor develops and may escalate to Violent Muscular Spasms. Tremor initially involves the hands and later spreads to the eyelids, lips, and tongue. Long-term, low-level exposure has been associated with more subtle symptoms of Erethism, including Fatigue, Irritability, Loss of Memory, Vivid Dreams and Depression.
    Deficiency Effects:
    None listed
    Sources Food:
    Can be accumulative in Fish
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    Mercury is an extremely rare element in Earth's crust, having an average crustal abundance by mass of only 0.08 parts per million (ppm). It is found either as a native metal (rare) or in cinnabar, corderoite, livingstonite and other minerals, with cinnabar (HgS) being the most common ore.Mercury ores usually occur in very young orogenic belts where rocks of high density are forced to the crust of Earth, often in hot springs or other volcanic regions
    • 65% from stationary combustion, of which coal-fired power plants are the largest aggregate source (40% of U.S. mercury emissions in 1999). This includes power plants fueled with gas where the mercury has not been removed. Emissions from coal combustion are between one and two orders of magnitude higher than emissions from oil combustion, depending on the country.
    • 11% from gold production. The three largest point sources for mercury emissions in the U.S. are the three largest gold mines. Hydrogeochemical release of mercury from gold-mine tailings has been accounted as a significant source of atmospheric mercury in eastern Canada.
    • 6.8% from non-ferrous metal production, typically smelters.
    • 6.4% from cement production.
    • 3.0% from waste disposal, including municipal and hazardous waste, crematoria, and sewage sludge incineration.
    • 3.0% from caustic soda production.
    • 1.4% from pig iron and steel production.
    • 1.1% from mercury production, mainly for batteries.
    • 2.0% from other sources.

    The above percentages are estimates of the global human-caused mercury emissions in 2000, excluding biomass burning, an important source in some regions.
    Recent atmospheric mercury contamination in outdoor urban air was measured at 0.01–0.02 µg/m3. A 2001 study measured mercury levels in 12 indoor sites chosen to represent a cross-section of building types, locations and ages in the New York area. This study found mercury concentrations significantly elevated over outdoor concentrations, at a range of 0.0065 – 0.523 μg/m3. The average was 0.069 μg/m3.
    Sediments within large urban-industrial estuaries act as an important sink for point source and diffuse mercury pollution within catchments.
    Supplemental information:
    The World Health Organization, OSHA, and NIOSH all treat mercury as an occupational hazard, and have established specific occupational exposure limits. Environmental releases and disposal of mercury are regulated in the U.S. primarily by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
    Supplemental information:

  • Methanal
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Formaldehyde (CH2O)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Skin, Eyes, Lungs
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System
    Excess Effects:
    Vomiting, Watery Eyes, Burning Throat, Skin Irritation, Asthmatic Attacks, Nausea, Headaches, Cancer (still being further researched, shown to cause cancer in lab animals), Organ Damage
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Apples, Bananas, Pears, Cauliflower, Beef, Pork, Chicken, Cod
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Household Products, Air Fresheners, Cleaning Products, Cigarettes, E-Cigarettes, Vehicle Exhaust, Plywood, Glue, Insulation, Lotion, Shampoo, Cosmetics, Soap, Plastic Bottles
    Supplemental information:
     Can be produced from natural and manmade products, considered very toxic and hazardous air pollutant. Also known as Formalin, Methanal, Methanediol, Formic aldehyde, Methyl aldehyde, Methylene glycol, Methylene oxide

    Works Cited:
    "ATSDR - Medical Management Guidelines (MMGs): Formaldehyde." Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Web. http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/mmg/mmg.asp?id=216&tid=39
    "Formaldehyde." American Cancer Society | Information and Resources about for Cancer: Breast, Colon, Lung, Prostate, Skin. Web. http://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/formaldehyde.html

  • Methanediol
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Formaldehyde (CH2O)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Skin, Eyes, Lungs
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System
    Excess Effects:
    Vomiting, Watery Eyes, Burning Throat, Skin Irritation, Asthmatic Attacks, Nausea, Headaches, Cancer (still being further researched, shown to cause cancer in lab animals), Organ Damage
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Apples, Bananas, Pears, Cauliflower, Beef, Pork, Chicken, Cod
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Household Products, Air Fresheners, Cleaning Products, Cigarettes, E-Cigarettes, Vehicle Exhaust, Plywood, Glue, Insulation, Lotion, Shampoo, Cosmetics, Soap, Plastic Bottles
    Supplemental information:
     Can be produced from natural and manmade products, considered very toxic and hazardous air pollutant. Also known as Formalin, Methanal, Methanediol, Formic aldehyde, Methyl aldehyde, Methylene glycol, Methylene oxide

    Works Cited:
    "ATSDR - Medical Management Guidelines (MMGs): Formaldehyde." Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Web. http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/mmg/mmg.asp?id=216&tid=39
    "Formaldehyde." American Cancer Society | Information and Resources about for Cancer: Breast, Colon, Lung, Prostate, Skin. Web. http://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/formaldehyde.html

  • Methionine
    Type: Essential Amino Acid
    Name: Methionine (Met, L-methionine, M)
    RDA: ~ 2g-3g
    Importance – to body:
    Used to assist mood disorders (depression), schizophrenia, alcoholism, allergies, copper poisoning, Parkinson’s disease, asthma, drug withdrawal, radiation side effects, and allergies. Methionine contains Sulphur and the cartilage in the body’s joints require Sulphur (the lack of Sulphur can lead to arthritis as well as a delay in the healing process). Methionine helps to strengthen nails and fight hair loss, helps in detoxification (can help reduce the buildup of toxins and free radicals in the body). Methionine is one of two Sulphur containing essential amino acids!
    Distribution – in body:
    Plays a crucial role in the body’s metabolism, is a protein-building essential amino acid, plays a big rule in angiogenesis (the growth of new blood vessel, and has a fat-dissolving effect and reduces the depositing of fat in the liver. The kidneys can use methionine to acidify urine, methionine is used for acetaminophen poisoning, there is less of a chance for a pregnant woman to face neural tube birth defects when consuming a healthy amount of methionine, but it must be discussed with a health provider prior for the safety of the fetus. Methionine also protects the tissues in the body and maintains proper cell function.
    Excess effects:
    Cancer growths, Nnausea, Vomiting, Brain Damage, Tumors, possibly Death.
    Deficiency effects:
    Elevated Cholesterol, Liver Damage, Poor or Dull Skin Tone, Muscle Weakness, Hair Loss, Weak/Brittle Nails.
    Food Sources:
    Protein-rich foods (Eggs, Poultry, Fish, Chicken, Pork, Liver, Beef, Nuts), some Dairy products (Brazil nuts are especially high in methionine), Pumpkin and Sunflower Seeds.
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Supplemental information:
    Studies have shown that a healthy individual’s cartilage has 3 times more Sulphur than an individual with arthritis/ Body builders often use L-methionine supplements to aid in protein synthesis and build up the muscles that need repairing in the body. Methionine has not been proven to treat or prevent any illnesses or diseases. More research is needed to prove any attention.

  • Methyl aldehyde
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Formaldehyde (CH2O)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Skin, Eyes, Lungs
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System
    Excess Effects:
    Vomiting, Watery Eyes, Burning Throat, Skin Irritation, Asthmatic Attacks, Nausea, Headaches, Cancer (still being further researched, shown to cause cancer in lab animals), Organ Damage
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Apples, Bananas, Pears, Cauliflower, Beef, Pork, Chicken, Cod
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Household Products, Air Fresheners, Cleaning Products, Cigarettes, E-Cigarettes, Vehicle Exhaust, Plywood, Glue, Insulation, Lotion, Shampoo, Cosmetics, Soap, Plastic Bottles
    Supplemental information:
     Can be produced from natural and manmade products, considered very toxic and hazardous air pollutant. Also known as Formalin, Methanal, Methanediol, Formic aldehyde, Methyl aldehyde, Methylene glycol, Methylene oxide

    Works Cited:
    "ATSDR - Medical Management Guidelines (MMGs): Formaldehyde." Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Web. http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/mmg/mmg.asp?id=216&tid=39
    "Formaldehyde." American Cancer Society | Information and Resources about for Cancer: Breast, Colon, Lung, Prostate, Skin. Web. http://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/formaldehyde.html

  • Methylchloroisothiazolinone
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Methylchloroisothiazolinone
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Lungs, Eyes, Skin
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System
    Excess Effects:
    Lung Toxicity, Allergic Reactions, Nerve Damage, Nerve Toxicity, Burns, Lung Irritation
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Liquid Cosmetics, Cleaning Products, Detergents, Lotion, Sunscreen, Liquid Soaps, Body Wash, Mascara, Shaving Cream, Shampoo, Hair Conditioner, Baby Wipes
    Supplemental information:
    Preservative, Anti-fungal, Antibacterial

    Works Cited:
    “Methylchloroisothiazolinone.” Honest Reviews of Anti-Aging Skin Care and Beauty Products, www.truthinaging.com/ingredients/methylchloroisothiazolinone.

  • Methylcobalamin
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B12
    Name: Cyanocobalamin, Hydroxycobalamin, Methylcobalamin
    RDA:3-6 µg
    Importance- to Body:
    Functions as coenzyme in all cells, particularly in gastrointestinal tract, nervous system, and bone marrow; in bone marrow, acts in synthesis of DNA; when absent, erythrocytes do not divide but continue to increase in size.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Most complex vitamin; contains cobalt; stable to heat; inactivated by light and strongly acidic or basic solutions; intrinsic factor required for transport across intestinal membrane; stored principally in liver; liver stores of 2000-3000 µg sufficient to provide for body needs for 3-5 years.
    Excess Effects:
    None listed
    Deficiency Effects:
    Most cases reflect impaired absorption rather than actual deficit
    Pernicious Anemia, Pallor, Anorexia, Dyspnea, Weight Loss, Neurological Disturbances
    Food Sources:
    Not found in plant foods or butter
    Liver, Meat, Poultry, Fish, Dairy, Eggs
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Methylene glycol
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Formaldehyde (CH2O)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Skin, Eyes, Lungs
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System
    Excess Effects:
    Vomiting, Watery Eyes, Burning Throat, Skin Irritation, Asthmatic Attacks, Nausea, Headaches, Cancer (still being further researched, shown to cause cancer in lab animals), Organ Damage
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Apples, Bananas, Pears, Cauliflower, Beef, Pork, Chicken, Cod
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Household Products, Air Fresheners, Cleaning Products, Cigarettes, E-Cigarettes, Vehicle Exhaust, Plywood, Glue, Insulation, Lotion, Shampoo, Cosmetics, Soap, Plastic Bottles
    Supplemental information:
     Can be produced from natural and manmade products, considered very toxic and hazardous air pollutant. Also known as Formalin, Methanal, Methanediol, Formic aldehyde, Methyl aldehyde, Methylene glycol, Methylene oxide

    Works Cited:
    "ATSDR - Medical Management Guidelines (MMGs): Formaldehyde." Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Web. http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/mmg/mmg.asp?id=216&tid=39
    "Formaldehyde." American Cancer Society | Information and Resources about for Cancer: Breast, Colon, Lung, Prostate, Skin. Web. http://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/formaldehyde.html

  • Methylene oxide
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Formaldehyde (CH2O)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Skin, Eyes, Lungs
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System
    Excess Effects:
    Vomiting, Watery Eyes, Burning Throat, Skin Irritation, Asthmatic Attacks, Nausea, Headaches, Cancer (still being further researched, shown to cause cancer in lab animals), Organ Damage
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Apples, Bananas, Pears, Cauliflower, Beef, Pork, Chicken, Cod
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Household Products, Air Fresheners, Cleaning Products, Cigarettes, E-Cigarettes, Vehicle Exhaust, Plywood, Glue, Insulation, Lotion, Shampoo, Cosmetics, Soap, Plastic Bottles
    Supplemental information:
     Can be produced from natural and manmade products, considered very toxic and hazardous air pollutant. Also known as Formalin, Methanal, Methanediol, Formic aldehyde, Methyl aldehyde, Methylene glycol, Methylene oxide

    Works Cited:
    "ATSDR - Medical Management Guidelines (MMGs): Formaldehyde." Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Web. http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/mmg/mmg.asp?id=216&tid=39
    "Formaldehyde." American Cancer Society | Information and Resources about for Cancer: Breast, Colon, Lung, Prostate, Skin. Web. http://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/formaldehyde.html

  • Methylisothiazolinone
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Methylisothiazolinone
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Skin
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System, Areas Applied
    Excess Effects:
    Lung Toxicity, Allergic reactions, Nerve Damage, Nerve Toxicity
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Detergents, Hairspray, Shaving Cream, Mascara, Sunscreen, Champoo, Hair Conditioner, Makeup Remover, Body Wash, Baby Lotion, Baby Shampoo
    Supplemental information:
    Preservative, Biocide

    Works Cited:
    “Methylisothiazolinone.” American Chemical Society, www.acs.org/content/acs/en/molecule-of-the-week/archive/m/methylisothiazolinone.html.

  • Molybdenum
    MolybdenumType: Trace Element
    Periodic Element: (Mo)
    RDA: ~0.15-0.5 mg
    Importance- To Body:
    Component of several enzymes
    Distribution- In Body:
    * Approx. % of Body Mass
    Excess Effects:
    Inhibited enzyme activity
    Deficiency Effects:
    None listed
    Sources Food:
    Organ meats, legumes, green leafy vegetables.
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Mycobacterium fortuitum
    Type: Mycobacteria
    Name: Mycobacterium fortuitum
    Importance- to Body:
    Cutaneous Infection
    Distribution- in Body:
    Multiple furuncles
    Epidemiology: Rapidly growing Mycobacterium
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Associated with foot spas; increased risk if patient showing AFB* and has razor-shaved legs before spa treatment.
    Diagonosis:
    Biopsy of tissue showing AFB and AFB culture positive
    Treatment:
    Normally resolves without treatment. Can administer single therapy, but dual therapy is preferred with ciprofloxacin. doxycycline. clarithromycin, or minocycline for 6 to 12 months.
    Supplemental information:
    Source: Cutaneous Manifestations Of Waterborne Infections by: Lucinda Elko, MD, RPh, Keith Rosenbach, MD, PhD*, and John Sinnott, MD

    *AFB—acid-fast bacilli.

  • Mycobacterium marinum
    Type: Micobacteria
    Name: Mycobacterium marinum
    Importance- to Body:
    Cutaneous Infection
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin; Ulcers, nodules, or nodular lymphangitis. Rarely, warty nodule or plaque on bony prominence.
    Epidemiology:
    Food Sources:

    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Before 1962, most cases associated with swimming pools. After 1962, most cases associated with aquarium cleaning, crab pinches, and contact with sea-urchin spines.
    Diagonosis:
    Biopsy of tissue showing AFB and AFB culture positive
    Treatment:
    Normally resolves without treatment. Can administer single therapy, but dual therapy is preferred with ciprofloxacin. doxycycline. clarithromycin, or minocycline for 6 to 12 months.
    Supplemental information:
    Source: Cutaneous Manifestations Of Waterborne Infections by: Lucinda Elko, MD, RPh, Keith Rosenbach, MD, PhD*, and John Sinnott, MD

  • Mycobacterium ulcerans
    Type: Mycobacteria
    Name: Mycobacterium ulcerans
    Importance- to Body:
    Cutaneous Infection
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin; Buruli ulcer (nodule develops into necrotic ulcer). May involve bone.
    Epidemiology:
    Food Sources:

    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Swamp water in Africa, Asia, Australia, and South America.
    Diagonosis:
    Biopsy of tissue showing AFB* and AFB culture positive
    Treatment:
    Difficult to treat. Surgical debridement and dual antibiotics (rilampin, clarithromycin, dapsone, streptomycin, clofazimine, and/or trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole) for weeks to months.
    Supplemental information:
    Source: Cutaneous Manifestations Of Waterborne Infections by: Lucinda Elko, MD, RPh, Keith Rosenbach, MD, PhD*, and John Sinnott, MD

    *AFB—acid-fast bacilli.

  • n

  • n-dodecyl sulfate sodium
    Type:
    Toxin
    Name:
    Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Skin, Eyes, Other
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin
    Excess Effects:
    Irritation of Skin, Organ Toxicity, Skin Reactions, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Body Wash, Shampoo, Soap, Detergents, Toothpaste
    Supplemental Information:
     The “foaming” in cleansing products Detergent, Surfactant (helps create lather), Considered Acutely Toxic

  • Niacin
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B3
    Name: Niacin, Niacinamide
    RDA:20 mg
    Importance- to Body:
    Constituent of NAD and NADP (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate), coenzymes involved in glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, fat breakdown; inhibits cholesterol synthesis.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Simple organic compounds stable to acids, alkalis, heat, light, oxidation (even boiling does not decrease potency); very limited amount stored in body, day-to-day supply is desirable; excess excreted in urine.
    Excess Effects:
    Result of mega doses; Hyperglycemia; Vasodilation leading to flushing of skin, Tingling Sensations; Liver Damage, Gout.
    Deficiency Effects:
    Pellagra after months of deprivation (rare in U.S.); early signs are vague: Listlessness, Headache, Weight Loss, Loss of Appetite; Progresses to soreness and redness of tongue and lips; Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Dermatitis
    Food Sources:
    Poultry, Meat, Fish
    Lesser Sources: Liver, Yeast, Peanuts, Potatoes, Leafy-Green Vegetables
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Niacinamide
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B3
    Name: Niacin, Niacinamide
    RDA:20 mg
    Importance- to Body:
    Constituent of NAD and NADP (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate), coenzymes involved in glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, fat breakdown; inhibits cholesterol synthesis.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Simple organic compounds stable to acids, alkalis, heat, light, oxidation (even boiling does not decrease potency); very limited amount stored in body, day-to-day supply is desirable; excess excreted in urine.
    Excess Effects:
    Result of mega doses; Hyperglycemia; Vasodilation leading to flushing of skin, Tingling Sensations; Liver Damage, Gout.
    Deficiency Effects:
    Pellagra after months of deprivation (rare in U.S.); early signs are vague: Listlessness, Headache, Weight Loss, Loss of Appetite; Progresses to soreness and redness of tongue and lips; Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Dermatitis
    Food Sources:
    Poultry, Meat, Fish
    Lesser Sources: Liver, Yeast, Peanuts, Potatoes, Leafy-Green Vegetables
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Nickel
    NickelType: Essential Mineral
    Periodic Element: (Ni)
    RDA: Average daily exposure is not believed to pose a threat to human health.
    Importance- To Body:
    Toxin at high levels.
    Distribution- In Body:
    Dietary intake is estimated at 70 to 100 µg/day, with less than 10% absorbed. Most of the nickel ingested every day by humans is removed by the kidneys and passed out of the body through urine or is eliminated through the gastrointestinal tract without being absorbed.
    Excess Effects:
    The Tolerable Upper Intake Level of dietary nickel is 1000 µg/day as soluble nickel salts.
    Deficiency Effects:
    Not listed.
    Sources Food:
    Relatively large amounts of nickel – comparable to the estimated average ingestion above – leach into food cooked in stainless steel. For example, the amount of nickel leached after 10 cooking cycles into one serving of tomato sauce averages 88 µg.
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    Nickel is essential to plants. Nickel-plated faucets may contaminate water and soil; mining and smelting may dump nickel into waste-water; nickel–steel alloy cookware and nickel-pigmented dishes may release nickel into food. The atmosphere may be polluted by nickel ore refining and fossil fuel combustion. Humans may absorb nickel directly from tobacco smoke and skin contact with jewelry, shampoos, detergents, and coins. A less-common form of chronic exposure is through hemodialysis as traces of nickel ions may be absorbed into the plasma from the chelating action of albumin.
    Supplemental information:
    Nickel released from Siberian Traps volcanic eruptions is suspected of assisting the growth of Methanosarcina, a genus of euryarchaeote archaea that produced methane during the Permian–Triassic extinction event, the biggest extinction event on record
    Nickel compounds are classified as human carcinogens based on increased respiratory cancer risks observed in epidemiological studies of sulfidic ore refinery workers. This is supported by the positive results of the NTP bioassays with Ni sub-sulfide and Ni oxide in rats and mice.The human and animal data consistently indicate a lack of carcinogenicity via the oral route of exposure and limit the carcinogenicity of nickel compounds to respiratory tumours after inhalation.

  • Nitrogen
    NitrogenType: Major Element
    Periodic Element: (N)
    RDA: Not Established.
    Importance- To Body:
    A component of proteins and nucleic acids (genetic materiel).
    Distribution- In Body:
    3.2 Approx % Body Mass
    Exists in nearly all bodily tissues; the bloodstream, nerves, joints, and other sensitive and vital areas. Nitrogen dissolves in the blood and body fats.
    Excess Effects:
    nitrogen is inherently non-toxic, however when released into an enclosed space it can displace oxygen therefore presenting an asphyxiation hazard. This may happen with few warning symptoms, since the human carotid body is a relatively poor and slow low-oxygen (hypoxia) sensing system.
    When inhaled at high partial pressures (more than about 4 bar, encountered at depths below about 30 m in scuba diving), nitrogen is an anesthetic agent, causing nitrogen narcosis, a temporary state of mental impairment similar to nitrous oxide intoxication.
    Deficiency Effects:
    Not listed
    Sources:
    Ambient Air
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    Nitrogen is the most common pure element in the earth, making up 78.1% of the entire volume of the atmosphere.
    The only important nitrogen minerals are nitre (potassium nitrate, saltpetre) and sodanitre (sodium nitrate, Chilean saltpetre). However, these have not been an important source of nitrates since the 1920s, when the industrial synthesis of ammonia and nitric acid became common.
    Supplemental information:

  • o

  • Oxybenzone
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Oxybenzone
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Skin
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Areas Applied
    Excess Effects:
    Skin Cancer, Risk to Reproductive System, Disruption of Hormones, Early Puberty in Females, Photo Sensitivity
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Sunscreen, Lotion, Hair Products
    Supplemental information:
    Prevent Sun Damage, Chemical Sunscreen Agent

    Works Cited:
    Griffin, R. Morgan. “Sun Safety: Sunscreen and Sun Protection.” WebMD, WebMD, www.webmd.com/beauty/features/sun-safety-sunscreen-and-sun-protection.

  • Oxygen
    OxygenType: Major Element
    Periodic Element: (O)
    RDA: Not listed. An adult human at rest inhales 1.8 to 2.4 grams of oxygen per minute.
    Importance- To Body:
    A major component of both organic (carbon-containing) and inorganic molecules. As a gas it is necessary for the production of cellular energy (ADP). Until the discovery of anaerobic metazoa, oxygen was thought to be a requirement for all complex life. In vertebrates, O2 diffuses through membranes in the lungs and into red blood cells. Hemoglobin binds O2, changing color from bluish red to bright red
    Distribution- In Body:
    65 Approx % Body Mass
    The free oxygen partial pressure in the body of a living vertebrate organism is highest in the respiratory system, and decreases along any arterial system, peripheral tissues, and venous system, respectively. Partial pressure is the pressure that oxygen would have if it alone occupied the volume.
    Excess Effects:
    Prolonged breathing of an air mixture with an O2 partial pressure more than 60 kPa can eventually lead to permanent pulmonary fibrosis. Exposure to a O2 partial pressures greater than 160 kPa (about 1.6 atm) may lead to convulsions (normally fatal for divers). Acute oxygen toxicity (causing seizures, its most feared effect for divers) can occur by breathing an air mixture with 21% O2 at 66 m (217 ft) or more of depth; the same thing can occur by breathing 100% O2 at only 6m (20 ft)
    Deficiency Effects:
    Hypoxia. Total atmospheric pressure decreases as altitude increases, causing a lower partial pressure of oxygen which is defined as hypobaric hypoxia. Oxygen remains at 20.9% of the total gas mixture, differing from hypoxic hypoxia, where the percentage of oxygen in the air (or blood) is decreased.
    Sources:
    Ambient Air
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    while some estimates are lower, suggesting oceans produce ~45% of Earth's atmospheric oxygen each year.
    Supplemental information:

  • p

  • Pantothenic acid
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B5
    Name: Pantothenic Acid
    RDA:10 mg
    Importance- to Body:
    Functions in form of coenzyme A in reactions that remove of transfer acetyl group, e.g., formation of acetyl CoA from pyruvic acid, oxidation and synthesis of fatty acids; also involved in synthesis of steroids and heme of hemoglobin.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Quite stable, little loss of activity with cooking except in acidic or alkaline solutions; liver, kidney, brain, adrenal, heart tissues contain large amounts.
    Excess Effects:
    None listed
    Deficiency Effects:
    (neuropathy of alcoholics is thought to be related to deficits).
    Symptoms are vague: Loss of Appetite, Abdominal Pain, Mental Depression, Pains in Arms and Legs, Muscle Spasms, Neuromuscular Degeneration
    Food Sources:
    Widely distributed in animal foods, Whole Grains, Legumes, Liver, Yeast, Egg Yolk, Meat is an especially good source; some produced by enteric bacteria
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Parfum
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Fragrance (Parfum)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Skin, Eyes, Respiratory System, Other
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Eyes, Respiratory System
    Excess Effects:
    Allergic Reactions, Skin Reactions, Damage to Organs from Inhalation
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Body Wash, Body Lotion, Deodorant, Makeup, Makeup Wipes, Skin Toners, Perfumes, Exfoliants, Sunscreen, Shampoo, Soap, Detergents, Toothpaste
    Supplemental information:
     Derived from Petroleum (crude oil), be aware “Fragrance” can stand for more than 3,000 ingredients!

    Works Cited
    Price, Annie. “Liver Tumors, Brain & Kidney Damage, Weird Allergy-Like Symptoms & Headaches Linked to Candle & Shampoo Ingredients.” Dr. Axe, Dr. Axe, 15 Mar. 2018, draxe.com/dangers-synthetic-scents/.

  • PEG
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) (C2nH4n+2On+1)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Considered Acutely Toxic, Skeletal System, Organs
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skeletal System, Organs
    Excess Effects:
    Organ System Toxicity, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Skin Creams, Lubricants, Laxatives
    Supplemental information:
      Preservative, Thickener, Softener, Solvent

  • PEO
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) (C2nH4n+2On+1)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Considered Acutely Toxic, Skeletal System, Organs
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skeletal System, Organs
    Excess Effects:
    Organ System Toxicity, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Skin Creams, Lubricants, Laxatives
    Supplemental information:
      Preservative, Thickener, Softener, Solvent

  • Phenylalanine
    Type: Essential Amino Acid
    Name: Phenylalanine (Phe, F), Chemical formula C9H11NO2
    Importance- to Body:
    A building block of protein, is being experimented for pain and adhd.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Enters liver and blood stream. After amino acids circulate the body they join with others during the breakdown and synthesis of tissue in the body. An amount of both essential amino acids and non-essential are needed for protein synthesis.
    Excess Effects:
    Heartburn, Headaches, Anxiety, Dizziness, Fatigue, Nausea, Jitteriness, Insomnia, Darkening of Skin, Nerve Damage, Hypertension, and High Blood Pressure.
    Deficiency Effects:
    Depression, Sluggish Metabolism, Confusion, Low Energy, Reduced Appetite, Vitiligo (a skin condition that causes skin to have light patches because skin loses its pigment), Difficulty Remembering Things.
    Food Sources:
    Meat, Eggs, Fish, Cheese, Liver, Soybeans.
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Supplemental information:
    Vitiligo is found to be maintained/treatable by taking Phenylalanine in combination with UVA exposure. Individuals with schizophrenia should not take phenylalanine. Schulze and Barbieri identified the compound in 1879 in yellow lupine seedlings. People with a rare disorder called phenylketonuria (PKU) need to stay clear from phenylalanine because it prevents them from metabolizing Phe.

  • Phosphorus
    PhosphorusType: Lesser Element
    Periodic Element: (P)
    RDA: 800 mg - 1.5 g
    Importance- To Body:
    Part of calcium phosphate salts in bone and teeth, also present in nucleic acids, (part of ADP)
    Necessary for proper bone structure, intermediary metabolism, buffers, membranes. Component of bones and teeth, nucleic acids, proteins, phospholipids, Combines with coenzymes in various metabolic processes; ATP (Phosphate bonds essential for energy production), phosphates of body fluids; thus, important for energy storage and transfer, muscle and nerve activity, cell permeability.
    Distribution- In Body:
    1.0 Approx. % of Body Mass
    About 80% found in inorganic salts of bones, teeth; remainder in muscle, nervous tissue, blood; absorption aided by vitamin D; 1/3 dietary intake excreted in feces; metabolic byproducts excreted in urine.
    Excess Effects:
    None listed, none reported, Not known, but excess in diet may depress absorption of iron and maganese
    Deficiency Effects:
    Extremely rare; related to Rickets, Loss of Bone Minerals, Poor Growth
    Sources Food:
    Diets rich in proteins are usually rich in phosphorus; Dairy Products, Meats, Fish, Poultry, Beans, Grains, Eggs, Milk, Legumes, Nuts, Whole Grains
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Phthalates
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Phthalates (DBP, DEHP, DEP)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body: Toxin: Respiratory, Eye, Skin, Other
    Distribution- in Body: Skin, Respiratory System, Eyes
    Excess Effects: Headaches, Dizziness, Eye Irritant, Skin Irritant, and Throat Irritant
    Deficiency Effects: None Listed
    Food Sources: Processed Meat, Dairy, Fast Food
    Environmental/Geographic Sources: Perfumes, Hair Spray, Soap, Shampoo, Skin Cleanser, Skin Moisturizers, Nail Polish, Shower curtains, Wall paper, Plastic Wrap, Food Packaging, Toys, Medical Tubing, Fluid Bags, Detergents, Plastic Gloves, Flooring, Building Materials, Adhesives, Wood Finishes
    Supplemental information:  Preservative, used to soften and increase flexibility of plastic and vinyl

    Works Cited:
    Norton, Amy. “Unhealthy Phthalates Found in Restaurant Food.” WebMD, WebMD, 29 Mar. 2018, www.webmd.com/diet/news/20180329/unhealthy-phthalates-found-in-restaurant-food.

  • Phylloquinone
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: K
    Name: Phylloquinone, Menaquinones,Phytomenadione (K1)
    RDA:
    Males: 70 µg
    Females: 55 µg
    Obtaining adequate amount is not a problem.
    Importance- to Body:
    Essential for formation of clotting proteins and some other proteins made by liver; as intermediate in electron transport chain, participates in oxidative phosphorylation in all body cells.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Most synthesized by coliform bacteria in large intestine. In a number of related compounds known as quinones; small amounts stored in liver; heat resistant; destroyed by acids, alkalis, light, oxidizing agents; activity antagonized by certain anticoagulants and antibiotics that interfere with synthetic activity of enteric bacteria.
    Excess Effects:
    None listed, (not stored in appreciable amounts).
    Deficiency Effects:
    Easy Bruising and Easy Bleeding (prolonged clotting time)
    Food Sources:
    Leafy Green Vegetables, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Pork Liver
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Phytomenadione
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: K
    Name: Phylloquinone, Menaquinones,Phytomenadione (K1)
    RDA:
    Males: 70 µg
    Females: 55 µg
    Obtaining adequate amount is not a problem.
    Importance- to Body:
    Essential for formation of clotting proteins and some other proteins made by liver; as intermediate in electron transport chain, participates in oxidative phosphorylation in all body cells.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Most synthesized by coliform bacteria in large intestine. In a number of related compounds known as quinones; small amounts stored in liver; heat resistant; destroyed by acids, alkalis, light, oxidizing agents; activity antagonized by certain anticoagulants and antibiotics that interfere with synthetic activity of enteric bacteria.
    Excess Effects:
    None listed, (not stored in appreciable amounts).
    Deficiency Effects:
    Easy Bruising and Easy Bleeding (prolonged clotting time)
    Food Sources:
    Leafy Green Vegetables, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Pork Liver
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • POE
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) (C2nH4n+2On+1)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Considered Acutely Toxic, Skeletal System, Organs
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skeletal System, Organs
    Excess Effects:
    Organ System Toxicity, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Skin Creams, Lubricants, Laxatives
    Supplemental information:
      Preservative, Thickener, Softener, Solvent

  • Polyethylene Glycol
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) (C2nH4n+2On+1)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Considered Acutely Toxic, Skeletal System, Organs
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skeletal System, Organs
    Excess Effects:
    Organ System Toxicity, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Skin Creams, Lubricants, Laxatives
    Supplemental information:
      Preservative, Thickener, Softener, Solvent

  • polyethylene oxide
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) (C2nH4n+2On+1)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Considered Acutely Toxic, Skeletal System, Organs
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skeletal System, Organs
    Excess Effects:
    Organ System Toxicity, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Skin Creams, Lubricants, Laxatives
    Supplemental information:
      Preservative, Thickener, Softener, Solvent

  • polyoxyethylene
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) (C2nH4n+2On+1)
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Considered Acutely Toxic, Skeletal System, Organs
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skeletal System, Organs
    Excess Effects:
    Organ System Toxicity, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Skin Creams, Lubricants, Laxatives
    Supplemental information:
      Preservative, Thickener, Softener, Solvent

  • Potassium
    PotassiumType: Lesser Element
    Periodic Element: (K)
    RDA: Not established; diet adequate in calories provides ample amount, i.e., 2500 mg. about 1.0-2.0g (normal diet provides 2-6g/day)
    Importance- To Body:
    Its ionic (K+) is the major postive ion (cation) in cells. Necessary for conduction of nerve impulses and moscle contraction. Helps maintain intracellular osmotic pressure; Necessary for buffering, needed for normal nerve impulse transmission and conduction, muscle contraction, glycogenesis, protein synthesis.
    Distribution- In Body:
    0.4 Approx. % of Body Mass
    Principal intracellular cation, 97% within cells; fixed proportion of K are used to determine lean body mass; K+ leaves cells during protein catabolism, dehydration, glycogenolysis; excreted in urine.
    Excess Effects:
    Heart block, Complication of renal failure or severe dehydration, but may result from severe alcoholism; paresthesias, muscular weakness, cardiac abnormalities.
    Deficiency Effects:
    Changes in Heart Function, Alteration in Muscle Contraction, Alkalosis; Rare but may result from severe Diarrhea or Vomiting; Muscle Weakness, Paralysis, Nausea, Tachycardia, Heart Failure
    Sources Food:
    All foods, especially Meats, Vegetables, Avocados, Dried Apricots, Fish, Fowl, Cereals, Milk
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Pseudcimonas (Shewanella) putrefaciens
    Type: Parasite
    Name: Pseudcimonas (Shewanella) putrefaciens
    Importance- to Body:
    Cutaneous Infection
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin; Otitis media in divers. Soft tissue infections such as cellulitis in patients with chronic infection/stasis of the lower extremities and liver disease.
    Epidemiology: Gram-negative rod
    Food Sources:
    Rotten meat, Rotten Dairy Products
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Soil, Water
    Diagonosis:
    Microbiologic cultures. Produces massive amounts of hydrogen sulfide in triple sugar agar.
    Treatment:
    Ciprofloxacin, ceftriaxone, ceftazidime, cefepirne,piperacillin, ticarcillin, piperacillinlmzobacoam, titarcillinlclavulanate, imipenem, meropenem, amikacin, tobramycin.
    Supplemental information:
    Source: Cutaneous Manifestations Of Waterborne Infections by: Lucinda Elko, MD, RPh, Keith Rosenbach, MD, PhD*, and John Sinnott, MD

  • Pseudomonas aeruginosa
    Type:
    Name:
    Importance- to Body:
    Cutaneous Infection
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Papulovesicular folliculitis in adults and hot-foot syndrome with painful erythematous plantar nodules in children and adolescents
    Epidemiology: Gram-negative rod
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Associated with hot tubs, loofah sponges, and wetsuits
    Diagonosis:
    Microbiologic cultures, clinical diagnosis
    Treatment:
    Resolves spontaneously without treatment
    Supplemental information:
    Source: Cutaneous Manifestations Of Waterborne Infections by: Lucinda Elko, MD, RPh, Keith Rosenbach, MD, PhD*, and John Sinnott, MD

  • Psoriasin
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Coal Tar, Name Brands: Denorex, Psoriasin, Benatar
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Skin, Treat Psoriasis on affected area, Eczema and Dandruff.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System, Eyes
    Excess Effects:
    Skin Discoloration, Skin Irritation, Allergic Reactions, Sensitivity to Sun, Skin Cancer, Lung Cancer
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Food Coloring
    Environmental/Geographic Sources: Found in medicated (anti-dandruff) shampoo, Soaps, Ointments, Coal Tar is from the production of coke (mainly carbon) and coal gas.
    Supplemental information:
      Medicated, Anti-fungal, Anti-itch, Anti-inflammatory and Anti-parasitic. Considered acutely toxic when inhaled for long periods of time.

    Works Cited:
    “Coal Tar and Coal-Tar Pitch.” National Cancer Institute, www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/substances/coal-tar
    Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. “Products - Hair Dyes.” U S Food and Drug Administration Home Page, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, www.fda.gov/Cosmetics/ProductsIngredients/Products/ucm143066.htm

  • Pyridoxal
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B6
    Name: Pyridoxine, Pyridoxamine, Pyridoxal
    RDA: 2 mg
    Importance- to Body:
    Active form is coenzyme pyridoxal phosphate. which functions in several enzyme systems involved in amino acid metabolism; also required for conversion of tryptophan to niacin, for glycogenolysis, formation of antibodies.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Group of three pyridines occurring in both free and phosphorylated forms in body; stable to heat, acids; destroyed by alkalis, light; body stores very limited.
    Excess Effects:
    Depressed Deep Tendons Reflexes, Numbness, Loss of Sensation in Extremities
    Deficiency Effects:
    Infants: Nervous Irritability, Convulsions, Anemia, Vomiting, Weakness, Abdominal Pain
    Adults: Seborrhea Lesions around eyes and mouth
    Food Sources:
    Meat, Poultry, Fish
    Lesser Sources: Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes, Tomatoes, Spinach
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Pyridoxamine
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B6
    Name: Pyridoxine, Pyridoxamine, Pyridoxal
    RDA: 2 mg
    Importance- to Body:
    Active form is coenzyme pyridoxal phosphate. which functions in several enzyme systems involved in amino acid metabolism; also required for conversion of tryptophan to niacin, for glycogenolysis, formation of antibodies.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Group of three pyridines occurring in both free and phosphorylated forms in body; stable to heat, acids; destroyed by alkalis, light; body stores very limited.
    Excess Effects:
    Depressed Deep Tendons Reflexes, Numbness, Loss of Sensation in Extremities
    Deficiency Effects:
    Infants: Nervous Irritability, Convulsions, Anemia, Vomiting, Weakness, Abdominal Pain
    Adults: Seborrhea Lesions around eyes and mouth
    Food Sources:
    Meat, Poultry, Fish
    Lesser Sources: Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes, Tomatoes, Spinach
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Pyridoxine
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B6
    Name: Pyridoxine, Pyridoxamine, Pyridoxal
    RDA: 2 mg
    Importance- to Body:
    Active form is coenzyme pyridoxal phosphate. which functions in several enzyme systems involved in amino acid metabolism; also required for conversion of tryptophan to niacin, for glycogenolysis, formation of antibodies.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Group of three pyridines occurring in both free and phosphorylated forms in body; stable to heat, acids; destroyed by alkalis, light; body stores very limited.
    Excess Effects:
    Depressed Deep Tendons Reflexes, Numbness, Loss of Sensation in Extremities
    Deficiency Effects:
    Infants: Nervous Irritability, Convulsions, Anemia, Vomiting, Weakness, Abdominal Pain
    Adults: Seborrhea Lesions around eyes and mouth
    Food Sources:
    Meat, Poultry, Fish
    Lesser Sources: Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes, Tomatoes, Spinach
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • q

  • Quicksilver
    MercuryType: Periodic Element
    Periodic Element: (Hg)
    RDA: None
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxic
    Distribution- In Body:
    Indiscriminant Absorption
    Excess Effects:
    Symptoms typically include: Sensory impairment (vision, hearing, speech), Disturbed Sensation and a Lack of Coordination. The type and degree of symptoms exhibited depend upon the individual toxin, the dose, and the method and duration of exposure. Case control studies have shown effects such as Tremors, Impaired Cognitive Skills, and Sleep Disturbance in workers with chronic exposure to mercury vapor even at low concentrations in the range 0.7–42 μg/m3. A study has shown that acute exposure (4 – 8 hours) to calculated elemental mercury levels of 1.1 to 44 mg/m3 resulted in Chest pain, Dyspnea, Cough, Hemoptysis, Impairment of Pulmonary Function, and evidence of Interstitial Pneumonitis. Acute exposure to mercury vapor has been shown to result in profound Central Nervous System effects, including Psychotic Reactions characterized by Delirium, Hallucinations, and Suicidal Tendencies. Occupational exposure has resulted in broad-ranging functional disturbance, including Eerethism, Irritability, Excitability, Excessive Shyness, and Insomnia. With continuing exposure, a Fine Tremor develops and may escalate to Violent Muscular Spasms. Tremor initially involves the hands and later spreads to the eyelids, lips, and tongue. Long-term, low-level exposure has been associated with more subtle symptoms of Erethism, including Fatigue, Irritability, Loss of Memory, Vivid Dreams and Depression.
    Deficiency Effects:
    None listed
    Sources Food:
    Can be accumulative in Fish
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    Mercury is an extremely rare element in Earth's crust, having an average crustal abundance by mass of only 0.08 parts per million (ppm). It is found either as a native metal (rare) or in cinnabar, corderoite, livingstonite and other minerals, with cinnabar (HgS) being the most common ore.Mercury ores usually occur in very young orogenic belts where rocks of high density are forced to the crust of Earth, often in hot springs or other volcanic regions
    • 65% from stationary combustion, of which coal-fired power plants are the largest aggregate source (40% of U.S. mercury emissions in 1999). This includes power plants fueled with gas where the mercury has not been removed. Emissions from coal combustion are between one and two orders of magnitude higher than emissions from oil combustion, depending on the country.
    • 11% from gold production. The three largest point sources for mercury emissions in the U.S. are the three largest gold mines. Hydrogeochemical release of mercury from gold-mine tailings has been accounted as a significant source of atmospheric mercury in eastern Canada.
    • 6.8% from non-ferrous metal production, typically smelters.
    • 6.4% from cement production.
    • 3.0% from waste disposal, including municipal and hazardous waste, crematoria, and sewage sludge incineration.
    • 3.0% from caustic soda production.
    • 1.4% from pig iron and steel production.
    • 1.1% from mercury production, mainly for batteries.
    • 2.0% from other sources.

    The above percentages are estimates of the global human-caused mercury emissions in 2000, excluding biomass burning, an important source in some regions.
    Recent atmospheric mercury contamination in outdoor urban air was measured at 0.01–0.02 µg/m3. A 2001 study measured mercury levels in 12 indoor sites chosen to represent a cross-section of building types, locations and ages in the New York area. This study found mercury concentrations significantly elevated over outdoor concentrations, at a range of 0.0065 – 0.523 μg/m3. The average was 0.069 μg/m3.
    Sediments within large urban-industrial estuaries act as an important sink for point source and diffuse mercury pollution within catchments.
    Supplemental information:
    The World Health Organization, OSHA, and NIOSH all treat mercury as an occupational hazard, and have established specific occupational exposure limits. Environmental releases and disposal of mercury are regulated in the U.S. primarily by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
    Supplemental information:

  • Quinol
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Hydroquinone (Tocopheryl Acetate) C6H4(OH)2
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Skin
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System, Area Applied
    Excess Effects:
    Skin Cancer
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Blueberries, Pears, Beans, Broccoli, Onions, Tea, Red Wine, Wheat Cereals, Coffee
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Spot Treatments, Anti-Aging Products, Skin Lighteners, Hair Conditioners, Finger Nail Products, Facial Moisturizers, Facial Cleansers
    Supplemental information:
    ‘Artificial’ Skin Lightener that Decreases the Production of Melanin (used to lighten age spots, acne spots, hyperpigmentation, melasma)

    Works Cited:
    “The Truth About Hydroquinone by MedicineNet.com.” MedicineNet,
    www.medicinenet.com/fda_proposes_hydroquinone_ban/views.htm.

  • r

  • Radium
    RadiumType: Periodic Element
    Periodic Element: (Ra)
    RDA: 0.1 micrograms of ingested radium. (maximum daily dose, 1944)
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxic
    Distribution- In Body:
    When ingested, 80% of the ingested radium leaves the body through the feces, while the other 20% goes into the bloodstream, mostly accumulating in the bones.
    Excess Effects:
    Radium-dermatitis, Dermatitis, Cancer, Cell Death, Cell Mutation, Other Disorders
    Deficiency Effects:
    None listed
    Sources Food:
    None listed
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    In nature, radium is found in tiny quantities in the uranium ore uraninite and various other uranium minerals, and in even tinier quantities in thorium minerals. One ton of pitchblende typically yields about one seventh of a gram of radium. One kilogram of the Earth's crust contains about 900 picograms of radium, and one liter of sea water contains about 89 femtograms of radium.
    Supplemental information:

  • Radon
    RadonType: Gas
    Periodic Element: (Rn)
    RDA: If testing shows levels less than 4 picocuries radon per liter of air (150 Bq/m3), then no action is necessary.
    Importance- To Body:
    Contaminant
    Distribution- In Body:
    As radon itself decays, it produces decay products, which are other radioactive elements called radon daughters (also known as radon progeny). Unlike the gaseous radon itself, radon daughters are solids and stick to surfaces, such as dust particles in the air. If such contaminated dust is inhaled, these particles can also cause lung cancer.
    Excess Effects:
    Epidemiological studies have shown a clear link between breathing high concentrations of radon and incidence of lung cancer. Radon is a contaminant that affects indoor air quality worldwide.
    Deficiency Effects:
    None listed
    Sources:
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    Radon is produced by the radioactive decay of radium-226, which is found in uranium ores, phosphate rock, shales, igneous and metamorphic rocks such as granite, gneiss, and schist, and to a lesser degree, in common rocks such as limestone. Some of the highest radon hazard in the United States is found in Iowa and in the Appalachian Mountain areas in southeastern Pennsylvania. Some of the highest readings ever have been recorded in the Irish town of Mallow, County Cork, prompting local fears regarding lung cancer.
    Most countries have adopted a radon concentration of 200–400 Bq/m3 for indoor air as an Action or Reference Level. Very high radon concentrations (>1000 Bq/m3) have been found in houses built on soils with a high uranium content and/or high permeability of the ground. If levels are 20 picocuries radon per liter of air (800 Bq/m3) or higher, the home owner should consider some type of procedure to decrease indoor radon levels.
    Supplemental information:

  • Retinal
    None listedType: Compound
    Vitamin: A
    Name: Retinal, Retinol
    RDA:
    Males: 5000 IU
    Females: 4000 IU
    Importance- to Body:
    Required for synthesis of photoreceptor pigments of rods and cones, integrity of skin and mucosae, normal tooth and bone development; normal reproductive capabilities; acts with vitamin E to stabilize cell membranes.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Group of compounds including retinol and retinal; 90% is stored in liver, which can supply body needs for a year; stable to heat, acids, alkalis; easily oxidized; rapidly destroyed by exposure to light.
    Excess Effects:
    Toxic when ingested in excess of 50,000 IU daily for months; symptoms: Nausea, Vomiting, Anorexia, Headache, Hair Loss, Bone and Joint Pain, Bone Fragility, Enlargement of Liver, Enlargement of spleen
    Deficiency Effects:
    Most prevalent vitamin deficiency in the world. Night Blindness, Epithelial changes: Dry Skin, Dry Hair, Skin Sores; Increased Respiratory, Digestive, Urogenital infections, Drying of conjunctiva, Clouding of Cornea
    Food Sources:
    Formed from pro vitamin carotene found in Deep-Yellow vegetables, and Deep-Green Leafy Vegetables; vitamin A can be found in Fish Liver Oils, Egg Yolk, Liver, Fortified Foods (Milk, Margarine).
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Retinol
    None listedType: Compound
    Vitamin: A
    Name: Retinal, Retinol
    RDA:
    Males: 5000 IU
    Females: 4000 IU
    Importance- to Body:
    Required for synthesis of photoreceptor pigments of rods and cones, integrity of skin and mucosae, normal tooth and bone development; normal reproductive capabilities; acts with vitamin E to stabilize cell membranes.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Group of compounds including retinol and retinal; 90% is stored in liver, which can supply body needs for a year; stable to heat, acids, alkalis; easily oxidized; rapidly destroyed by exposure to light.
    Excess Effects:
    Toxic when ingested in excess of 50,000 IU daily for months; symptoms: Nausea, Vomiting, Anorexia, Headache, Hair Loss, Bone and Joint Pain, Bone Fragility, Enlargement of Liver, Enlargement of spleen
    Deficiency Effects:
    Most prevalent vitamin deficiency in the world. Night Blindness, Epithelial changes: Dry Skin, Dry Hair, Skin Sores; Increased Respiratory, Digestive, Urogenital infections, Drying of conjunctiva, Clouding of Cornea
    Food Sources:
    Formed from pro vitamin carotene found in Deep-Yellow vegetables, and Deep-Green Leafy Vegetables; vitamin A can be found in Fish Liver Oils, Egg Yolk, Liver, Fortified Foods (Milk, Margarine).
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Riboflavin
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B2
    Name: Riboflavin
    RDA:1.5 mg
    Importance- to Body:
    Present in body as coenzymes FAD and FMN (flavin mononucleotide), both of which act as hydrogen acceptors in body; also is component of amino acid oxidases.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Named for its similarity to ribose sugar; has green-yellow fluorescence; quickly decomposed by UV, visible light, alkalis; body stores are carefully guarded; excess eliminated in urine.
    Excess Effects:
    None listed
    Deficiency Effects:
    Among the most common vitamin deficiencies.
    Dermatitis; Cracking of lips at corners (Cheilosis); lips and tongue become purple-red and shiny; Ocular problems: Light Sensitivity, Blurred Vision
    Food Sources:
    Liver, Yeast, Egg White, Whole Grains, Meat, Poultry, Fish, Legumes, Milk
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • s

  • Salicylic Acid
    Type: Beta Hydroxy Acid
    Name:Salicylic Acid
    RDANone Listed Importance- to Body:Skin, Anti-inflammatory, Exfoliant, Unclogs Pores, Oil Soluble (Penetrates into pores and oily regions of skin), Best for Blackheads and Whiteheads
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Circulatory System, Digestive System
    Excess Effects:
    Irritation, Dryness and Flaking, Rashes, Peeling, flaking, Redness, Tenderness, Swelling, Itching
    Deficiency Effects:
    Dull Skin, Dry Skin, Whiteheads, Blackheads, Oily Skin, Acne
    Food Sources:
    Cucumbers, Alfalfa, Apricots, Artichokes, Eggplant, Mushrooms, Sauerkraut, Peppers, Olives, Lemons, Mangos, Passionfruit, Pomegranates, Strawberries, Blackberries, Blueberries, Pineapple, Grapes, Plums, Kiwi, Tomatoes, Nuts, Chicory, Herbs and Spices (all contain natural amounts of salicylates)
    Environmental/Geographic Sources: Found in Willow Bark
    Supplemental Information:
    Found in: Face Cleansers, Serums, Creams, Peels, Moisturizers, Toners, Spot Treatments, Acne Kits, Soaps, Masks, Peel Pads, Some Foundations and Concealers
    Sources:
    O’Connor, Tracy. “Hydroxy Acids: What They Do and Which Ones Are Right for You.” Dermstore Blog, 11 Sept. 2017 Jacques, Renee. “Here's Exactly What Salicylic Acid Does to Your SkinAllure, Allure Magazine, 23 Oct. 2017

  • Selenium
    SeleniumType: Trace Element
    Periodic Element: (Se)
    RDA: 0.05-2 mg
    Importance- To Body:
    Constituent of certain enzymes;, lipid metabolism, Antioxidant; (protects plasma membranes from breaking down), spares vitamin E.
    Distribution- In Body:
    * Approx. % of Body Mass
    Stored in liver, kidneys.
    Excess Effects:
    Gastrointestinal disorders, lung irritation, Nausea, vomiting, irritability, fatigue
    Deficiency Effects:
    Anemia (Rare)
    Sources Food:
    Most foods, especially liver, Meats, seafood, cereals
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Silicon
    SiType: Trace Element
    Periodic Element: (Si)
    RDA: None Listed
    Importance- To Body:
    There is some evidence that silicon is important to nail, hair, bone and skin health in humans.
    Distribution- In Body:
    * Approx. % of Body Mass
    Silicon is needed for synthesis of elastin and collagen, of which the aorta contains the greatest quantity in the human body.
    Excess Effects:
    The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has set the legal limit (Permissible exposure limit) for silicon exposure in the workplace as 15 mg/m3 total exposure and 5 mg/m3 respiratory exposure over an 8-hour workday. Inhalation of crystalline silica dust may lead to silicosis, an occupational lung disease marked by inflammation and scarring in the form of nodular lesions in the upper lobes of the lungs. People can be exposed to elemental silicon in the workplace by breathing it in, swallowing it, skin contact, and eye contact. In the latter two cases, silicon poses a slight hazard as an irritant.
    Deficiency Effects:
    Premenopausal women with higher dietary silicon intake have higher bone density, and that silicon supplementation can increase bone volume and density in patients with osteoporosis.
    Sources Food:
    Abundant
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    Silicon makes up 27.2% of the Earth's crust by weight, second only to oxygen at 45.5%.
    Supplemental information:
    In the universe, silicon is the seventh most abundant element, coming after hydrogen, helium, carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and neon. These abundances are not replicated well on Earth due to substantial separation of the elements taking place during the formation of the Solar System.

  • Sodium
    SodiumType: Lesser Element
    Periodic Element: (Na)
    RDA: Not established; probably about 2500 mg (Diet supplies substantial excess).
    Importance- To Body:
    As an ion (Na) is major positive ion found in extracellular fluids (fluids outside fo cells). Important for water balance, conduction of nerve impulses, and muscular contraction. Necessary for ionic equilibrium, osmotic gradients, nerve impulse conduction, Principal electrolyte maintaining osmotic pressure of extracellular fluids and water balance; as part of bicarbonate buffer system, aids in acid-base balance of blood; needed for normal neuromuscular function; part of pump for transport of glucose and other nutrients.
    Distribution- In Body:
    0.2 Approx. % of Body Mass
    Widely distributed; 50% found in extra-cellular fluid, 40% in bone salts, 10% within cells; absorption is rapid and almost complete; excretion, chiefly in urine, controlled by aldosterone
    Excess Effects:
    Edema, Hypertension
    Deficiency Effects:
    Dehydration, Kidney Failure- Rare but can occur with Excessive Vomiting, Diarrhea, Sweating, or Poor Dietary Intake, Nausea, Abdominal and Muscle Cramping, Convulsions
    Sources Food:
    Most foods, Table Salt (1 tsp= 2000 mg); Cured Meats (Ham, etc.), Sauerkraut, Cheese
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Sodium coco-sulfate
    Type:
    Toxin
    Name:
    Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Skin, Eyes, Other
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin
    Excess Effects:
    Irritation of Skin, Organ Toxicity, Skin Reactions, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Body Wash, Shampoo, Soap, Detergents, Toothpaste
    Supplemental Information:
     The “foaming” in cleansing products Detergent, Surfactant (helps create lather), Considered Acutely Toxic

  • Sodium dodecanesulfate
    Type:
    Toxin
    Name:
    Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Skin, Eyes, Other
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin
    Excess Effects:
    Irritation of Skin, Organ Toxicity, Skin Reactions, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Body Wash, Shampoo, Soap, Detergents, Toothpaste
    Supplemental Information:
     The “foaming” in cleansing products Detergent, Surfactant (helps create lather), Considered Acutely Toxic

  • Sodium Laureth Sulfate
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Sodium Laureth Sulfate
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Skin, Eyes, Other
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin
    Excess Effects:
    Skin Irritation, Organ Toxicity, Skin reactions, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Body Wash, Shampoo, Soap, Detergents, Toothpaste
    Supplemental information:
     The “foaming agent” in cleansing products, Detergent and Surfactant (helps create lather), Considered Acutely Toxic, similar to sodium lauryl sulfate

  • Sodium laureth sulphate
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Sodium Laureth Sulfate
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Skin, Eyes, Other
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin
    Excess Effects:
    Skin Irritation, Organ Toxicity, Skin reactions, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Body Wash, Shampoo, Soap, Detergents, Toothpaste
    Supplemental information:
     The “foaming agent” in cleansing products, Detergent and Surfactant (helps create lather), Considered Acutely Toxic, similar to sodium lauryl sulfate

  • Sodium lauryl ether sulfate
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Sodium Laureth Sulfate
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Skin, Eyes, Other
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin
    Excess Effects:
    Skin Irritation, Organ Toxicity, Skin reactions, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Body Wash, Shampoo, Soap, Detergents, Toothpaste
    Supplemental information:
     The “foaming agent” in cleansing products, Detergent and Surfactant (helps create lather), Considered Acutely Toxic, similar to sodium lauryl sulfate

  • Sodium lauryl ether sulphate
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Sodium Laureth Sulfate
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Skin, Eyes, Other
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin
    Excess Effects:
    Skin Irritation, Organ Toxicity, Skin reactions, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Body Wash, Shampoo, Soap, Detergents, Toothpaste
    Supplemental information:
     The “foaming agent” in cleansing products, Detergent and Surfactant (helps create lather), Considered Acutely Toxic, similar to sodium lauryl sulfate

  • Sodium lauryl sulfate
    Type:
    Toxin
    Name:
    Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Skin, Eyes, Other
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin
    Excess Effects:
    Irritation of Skin, Organ Toxicity, Skin Reactions, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Body Wash, Shampoo, Soap, Detergents, Toothpaste
    Supplemental Information:
     The “foaming” in cleansing products Detergent, Surfactant (helps create lather), Considered Acutely Toxic

  • Sodium monododecyl sulfate
    Type:
    Toxin
    Name:
    Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Skin, Eyes, Other
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin
    Excess Effects:
    Irritation of Skin, Organ Toxicity, Skin Reactions, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Body Wash, Shampoo, Soap, Detergents, Toothpaste
    Supplemental Information:
     The “foaming” in cleansing products Detergent, Surfactant (helps create lather), Considered Acutely Toxic

  • Sodium monolauryl sulfate
    Type:
    Toxin
    Name:
    Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Skin, Eyes, Other
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin
    Excess Effects:
    Irritation of Skin, Organ Toxicity, Skin Reactions, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Body Wash, Shampoo, Soap, Detergents, Toothpaste
    Supplemental Information:
     The “foaming” in cleansing products Detergent, Surfactant (helps create lather), Considered Acutely Toxic

  • sodium salt
    Type:
    Toxin
    Name:
    Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Skin, Eyes, Other
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin
    Excess Effects:
    Irritation of Skin, Organ Toxicity, Skin Reactions, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Body Wash, Shampoo, Soap, Detergents, Toothpaste
    Supplemental Information:
     The “foaming” in cleansing products Detergent, Surfactant (helps create lather), Considered Acutely Toxic

  • Sulfur
    SulfurType: Lesser Element
    Periodic Element: (S)
    RDA: Not established; diet adequate in proteins meets body's needs. Daily requirement estimated at about 1.2 g.
    Importance- To Body:
    Component of proteins, particularly muscle proteins. Structurally essential constituent of many proteins as amino acids are made into proteins: (insulin), many vitamins (thiamin and biotin: found in mucopolysaccharides present in cartilage, tendons, bone.
    Distribution- In Body:
    0.3 Approx. % of Body Mass
    Widely distributed: particularly abundant in hair, skin, nails; excreted in urine.
    Excess Effects:
    None listed, not known
    Deficiency Effects:
    None listed, not known
    Sources Food:
    All protein containing foods; Meat, Milk, Eggs, Legumes (all rich in sulfur-containing amino acids)
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Sulfuric acid monododecyl ester sodium salt
    Type:
    Toxin
    Name:
    Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Skin, Eyes, Other
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin
    Excess Effects:
    Irritation of Skin, Organ Toxicity, Skin Reactions, Allergic Reactions
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Body Wash, Shampoo, Soap, Detergents, Toothpaste
    Supplemental Information:
     The “foaming” in cleansing products Detergent, Surfactant (helps create lather), Considered Acutely Toxic

  • t

  • T. gondii
    Type: Protozoa
    Name: Toxoplasma gondii
    Importance- to Body:
    Parasitic Infection
    Distribution- in Body:
    Tissue cysts can form in virtually any organ predominantly forming and persistent in the brain, the eyes, and striated muscle (including the heart)
    Epidemiology:
    Food Sources:
    Raw Meat, Undercooked Meat; Especially: Lamb, Pork, Venison, Unwashed Vegetables
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Cutting Boards,Garden Soil, Sandbox, Litter Box, Cats, Warm-blooded Animals, Anything that has come into contact with cat faeces
    Diagonosis:
    Serological Dye Test, patient history, symptoms, laboratory test results, including an antibody titer test and microscopic examination of tissues
    Treatment:
    No human vaccine is currently available, but is being constantly researched. For Acute Symptoms: Pyrimethamine, Sulfadiazine, Clindamycin, Spiramycin, Minocycline For Latent Symptoms: Atovaquone, Clindamycin During Pregnancy:DSpiramycin or pyrimethamine/sulfadiazine and Folinic acid may be used for treatment Supplemental information:
    Toxovax is an approved live vaccine for sheep and considered to provide lifetime protection. Largely associated with cats, T. gondii can infect any warm blooded animal. Many studies indicate evidence T. gondii may alter behavior in a host in turn allowing it to spread and reproduce.

  • Thiamin
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B1
    Name: Thiamin, Thiamine
    RDA:1.5 mg
    Importance- to Body:
    Part of coenzyme cocarboxylase, which acts in carbohydrate metabolism; required for transformation of pyruvic acid to acetyl CoA, for synthesis of pentose sugars and acetylcholine; for oxidation of alcohol.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Rapidly destroyed by heat; very limited amount stored in body; excess eliminated in urine.
    Excess Effects:
    None listed
    Deficiency Effects:
    Beriberi: Decreased Appetite; Gastrointestinal Disturbances; Peripheral Nerve Changes indicated by Weakness of Legs, Cramping of Calf Muscles, Numbness of Feet; Heart Enlarges, Tachycardia
    Food Sources:
    Lean meats, Liver, Eggs, Whole Grains, Leafy Greens, Legumes
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Thiamine
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B1
    Name: Thiamin, Thiamine
    RDA:1.5 mg
    Importance- to Body:
    Part of coenzyme cocarboxylase, which acts in carbohydrate metabolism; required for transformation of pyruvic acid to acetyl CoA, for synthesis of pentose sugars and acetylcholine; for oxidation of alcohol.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Rapidly destroyed by heat; very limited amount stored in body; excess eliminated in urine.
    Excess Effects:
    None listed
    Deficiency Effects:
    Beriberi: Decreased Appetite; Gastrointestinal Disturbances; Peripheral Nerve Changes indicated by Weakness of Legs, Cramping of Calf Muscles, Numbness of Feet; Heart Enlarges, Tachycardia
    Food Sources:
    Lean meats, Liver, Eggs, Whole Grains, Leafy Greens, Legumes
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Threonine
    Type: Essential Amino Acid
    Name: Threonine (Thr, T), Chemical formula C4H9NO3
    Importance- to Body:
    Supports cardiovascular, liver, immune and central nervous system functions. Threonine keeps the elasticity between the connective heart tissues strong and healthy, speeds up the healing process in the body, is used to construct proteins, and builds strong enamel and bones.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Threonine is needed to create 2 amino acids (glycine and serine) which play a key role in producing elastin, muscle tissue, and collagen. Threonine aids in production of antibodies. The absorption of amino acids take place along the small intestine and free forms in the blood stream.
    Excess Effects:
    Nausea, Headaches, Upset Stomach, Difficulty Concentrating.
    Deficiency Effects:
    Fat build-up in the liver, Difficulty Digesting, Emotional Issues/Difficulties, Mood Swings, Depression, Anxiety.
    Food Sources:
    Fish, Poultry, Sesame Seeds, Lentils, Meats, Cottage Cheese, some Dairy Products.
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Supplemental information:
    Relative correlation between threonine and alleviating depression. Individuals on low protein diets or vegetarians should speak to a professional about options and supplements for threonine before use, although anyone can have a deficiency based on stress, infection, and age.

  • Tin
    SnType: Trace Element
    Periodic Element: (Sn)
    RDA: 200 mg/kg (Acceptable Maximum)
    Importance- To Body:
    Tin has no known natural biological role in living organisms.
    Distribution- In Body:
    * Approx. % of Body Mass
    Excess Effects:
    Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea have been reported after ingesting canned food containing 200 mg/kg of tin. At levels of 100 mg/m3, tin is immediately dangerous to life and health. The toxic effects of tin compounds is based on the interference with the iron and copper metabolism. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has set the legal limit (permissible exposure limit) for tin exposure in the workplace as 2 mg/m3 over an 8-hour workday.
    Deficiency Effects:
    None.
    Sources Food:
    Canned Foods. 99.5% of the controlled food cans contain tin in an amount below acceptable maximum level according to Food Standards Agency in the UK.
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    Organotin compounds are almost as toxic as cyanide. Organotin compounds can be very toxic. "Tri-n-alkyltins" are phytotoxic and, depending on the organic groups, can be powerful bactericides and fungicides. Other triorganotins are used as miticides and acaricides.
    Supplemental information:

  • Titanium
    TiType: Periodic Element
    Periodic Element: (Ti)
    RDA: None
    Importance- To Body:
    Does not play any natural role inside the human body
    Distribution- In Body:
    An estimated quantity of 0.8 milligrams of titanium is ingested by humans each day, but most passes through without being absorbed into tissues.
    Excess Effects:
    Non-toxic even in large doses.
    Deficiency Effects:
    None listed
    Sources Food:
    None listed
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    Titanium is the ninth-most abundant element in Earth's crust (0.63% by mass) and the seventh-most abundant metal. It is present as oxides in most igneous rocks, in sediments derived from them, in living things, and natural bodies of water. Significant titanium-bearing ilmenite deposits exist in western Australia, Canada, China, India, Mozambique, New Zealand, Norway, Sierra Leone, South Africa, and Ukraine.
    Titanium dioxide nanoparticles are widely used in electronics and the delivery of pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.
    Supplemental information:
    Because titanium is biocompatible (non-toxic and not rejected by the body), it has many medical uses, including surgical implements and implants, such as hip balls and sockets (joint replacement) and dental implants that can stay in place for up to 20 years.[40] The titanium is often alloyed with about 4% aluminium or 6% Al and 4% vanadium.
    The fungal species Marasmius oreades and Hypholoma capnoides can bioconvert titanium in titanium polluted soils. < br/>

  • Tocopherols
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: E
    Name: Antisterility Factor,Tocopherols,Tocotrienols
    RDA: 30 IU
    Importance- to Body:
    An antioxidant that disarms free radicals; helps prevent oxidation of vitamins A and C in intestine; in tissues, decreases oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids, thus helps maintain integrity of cell membranes.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Group of related compounds called tocopherols, chemically related to sex hormones; stored primarily in muscle and adipose tissues; resistant to heat, light, acids; unstable in presence of oxygen.
    Excess Effects:
    Thrombophlebitis, Hypertension; Slow Wound Healing
    Deficiency Effects:
    Extremely rare, precise effects uncertain: possible Hemolysis of RBC's, Macrocytic Anemia; Fragile Capillaries
    Food Sources:
    Vegetable oils, Margarine, Whole Grains, Dark-Green Leafy Vegetables, Seeds, Nuts
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Supplemental information:

  • Tocopheryl Acetate
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Hydroquinone (Tocopheryl Acetate) C6H4(OH)2
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Skin
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System, Area Applied
    Excess Effects:
    Skin Cancer
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Blueberries, Pears, Beans, Broccoli, Onions, Tea, Red Wine, Wheat Cereals, Coffee
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Spot Treatments, Anti-Aging Products, Skin Lighteners, Hair Conditioners, Finger Nail Products, Facial Moisturizers, Facial Cleansers
    Supplemental information:
    ‘Artificial’ Skin Lightener that Decreases the Production of Melanin (used to lighten age spots, acne spots, hyperpigmentation, melasma)

    Works Cited:
    “The Truth About Hydroquinone by MedicineNet.com.” MedicineNet,
    www.medicinenet.com/fda_proposes_hydroquinone_ban/views.htm.

  • Tocotrienols
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: E
    Name: Antisterility Factor,Tocopherols,Tocotrienols
    RDA: 30 IU
    Importance- to Body:
    An antioxidant that disarms free radicals; helps prevent oxidation of vitamins A and C in intestine; in tissues, decreases oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids, thus helps maintain integrity of cell membranes.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Group of related compounds called tocopherols, chemically related to sex hormones; stored primarily in muscle and adipose tissues; resistant to heat, light, acids; unstable in presence of oxygen.
    Excess Effects:
    Thrombophlebitis, Hypertension; Slow Wound Healing
    Deficiency Effects:
    Extremely rare, precise effects uncertain: possible Hemolysis of RBC's, Macrocytic Anemia; Fragile Capillaries
    Food Sources:
    Vegetable oils, Margarine, Whole Grains, Dark-Green Leafy Vegetables, Seeds, Nuts
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Supplemental information:

  • Toluene
    Type: Toxin
    Name: Toluene
    RDA: 0
    Importance- to Body:
    Toxin: Respiratory, Nervous System, Eye, Skin, Other
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Respiratory System, Nervous System, Eyes, Skin, Liver, Kidneys
    Excess Effects:
    Nose Irritation, Eye Irritation, Fatigue, Headaches, Dizziness, Anxiety, Dermatitis, Numbness of Skin, Weakness, Confusion, Euphoria
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Glues and Adhesives, Resins, Paints, Nail Polish, Gasoline, Hair Dye, Cleaners, Floor Polish, Paint Thinners, Inks, Shoe Polish, Shoe Cleaner, Spray Paint, Rubber, Many Other Products
    Supplemental information:
    Colorless, Strong Odor, considered Very Toxic

  • Toxoplasma gondii
    Type: Protozoa
    Name: Toxoplasma gondii
    Importance- to Body:
    Parasitic Infection
    Distribution- in Body:
    Tissue cysts can form in virtually any organ predominantly forming and persistent in the brain, the eyes, and striated muscle (including the heart)
    Epidemiology:
    Food Sources:
    Raw Meat, Undercooked Meat; Especially: Lamb, Pork, Venison, Unwashed Vegetables
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Cutting Boards,Garden Soil, Sandbox, Litter Box, Cats, Warm-blooded Animals, Anything that has come into contact with cat faeces
    Diagonosis:
    Serological Dye Test, patient history, symptoms, laboratory test results, including an antibody titer test and microscopic examination of tissues
    Treatment:
    No human vaccine is currently available, but is being constantly researched. For Acute Symptoms: Pyrimethamine, Sulfadiazine, Clindamycin, Spiramycin, Minocycline For Latent Symptoms: Atovaquone, Clindamycin During Pregnancy:DSpiramycin or pyrimethamine/sulfadiazine and Folinic acid may be used for treatment Supplemental information:
    Toxovax is an approved live vaccine for sheep and considered to provide lifetime protection. Largely associated with cats, T. gondii can infect any warm blooded animal. Many studies indicate evidence T. gondii may alter behavior in a host in turn allowing it to spread and reproduce.

  • Toxoplasmosis
    Type: Protozoa
    Name: Toxoplasma gondii
    Importance- to Body:
    Parasitic Infection
    Distribution- in Body:
    Tissue cysts can form in virtually any organ predominantly forming and persistent in the brain, the eyes, and striated muscle (including the heart)
    Epidemiology:
    Food Sources:
    Raw Meat, Undercooked Meat; Especially: Lamb, Pork, Venison, Unwashed Vegetables
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Cutting Boards,Garden Soil, Sandbox, Litter Box, Cats, Warm-blooded Animals, Anything that has come into contact with cat faeces
    Diagonosis:
    Serological Dye Test, patient history, symptoms, laboratory test results, including an antibody titer test and microscopic examination of tissues
    Treatment:
    No human vaccine is currently available, but is being constantly researched. For Acute Symptoms: Pyrimethamine, Sulfadiazine, Clindamycin, Spiramycin, Minocycline For Latent Symptoms: Atovaquone, Clindamycin During Pregnancy:DSpiramycin or pyrimethamine/sulfadiazine and Folinic acid may be used for treatment Supplemental information:
    Toxovax is an approved live vaccine for sheep and considered to provide lifetime protection. Largely associated with cats, T. gondii can infect any warm blooded animal. Many studies indicate evidence T. gondii may alter behavior in a host in turn allowing it to spread and reproduce.

  • Tryptophan
    Type: Essential Amino Acid
    Name: Tryptophan
    RDA: 5 mg/kg body weight/day of Tryptophan for adults 19 years and over
    Importance – to Body:
    Tryptophan helps to regulate sleep and appetite. Tryptophan is required for the production of niacin (vitamin B3). It is made from animals or plants so it must be obtained from diet because we cannot synthesize it ourselves. Distribution – in Body:
    When the body absorbs tryptophan it is then changed into serotonin in our bodies, and the amount of serotonin in our bodies is what plays a crucial part of our mood. Excess Effects:
    Side effects of tryptophan are drowsiness, headaches, and dizziness which occurs seldom. Deficiency Effects:
    Emotional imbalances (i.e. anxiety, depression, insomnia) through reduced serotonin levels and lack of tryptophan. Food Sources:
    Chocolate, Oats, Dried Dates, Milk, Yogurt, Red Meat, Eggs, Fish, Poultry, Chickpeas, Almonds, Sunflower Seeds, Pumpkin Seeds, Buckwheat, Spirulina, Peanuts, Sesame, Quinoa, Cheese. Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Supplemental information:
    It is important to take tryptophan supplements or foods rich to make up for imbalances in the brain. Tryptophan is in most protein based foods or dietary proteins.

  • u

  • Urea
    Type: Organic Compound
    Name: Urea (Carbamide CO(NH2)2
    RDA:None Listed
    Importance- to Body:
    Moisturizer, Helps with Itching, Acne, Eczema, Keratosis Pilarsis, Treats Certain Nail and Skin Conditions
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Eyes, Lungs, Liver, Circulatory System
    Excess Effects:
    Allergic Reactions, Cause Skin and Eye Irritation, Burning, Stinging, Swelling
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    None Listed
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Acne treatments, Nail Polish, Deodorant, Mascara, Sunless Tanners, Shampoo/Conditioner, Hair Mousse, Face Cleansers, Body Lotions, Eye Cream, Lip Balm
    Supplemental information:
    pH neutral, Colorless and Odorless, Highly Soluble in Water, Practically Non-Toxic

    Works Cited
    Urea” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 27 July 2018

  • v

  • Valine
    Type: Essential Amino Acid
    Name: Valine (V, Val) Chemical formula C5H11NO2
    Importance- to Body:
    Needed for muscle metabolism, maintaining proper amount of nitrogen in the body, and crucial for tissue repair. Valine may be beneficial in treating liver and gallbladder diseases (from the damage of drugs and alcohol).
    Distribution- in Body:
    Produces glucose and supplies after intense exercise to prevent break down of muscles.
    Excess Effects:
    Disruption of the kidneys or liver, headaches, dizziness.
    Deficiency Effects:
    Maple syrup urine disease is caused by the inability to metabolize valine, leucine, and isoleucine, lack of valine can affect the myelin coating of the nerves, and can cause neurological, motor and cognitive problems.
    Food Sources:
    Protein-Rich Foods (meat), Dairy Products, Soy Products, Legumes, Beans, Mushrooms, Leafy Green Vegetables.
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Supplemental Information:
    Closely related to leucine and isoleucine (similar function and structure). It is recommended that valine be taken with leucine and isoleucine for more convenience.

  • Vanadium
    VanadiumType: Trace Element
    Periodic Element: (V)
    RDA:None listed. Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) of dietary vanadium, beyond which adverse effects may occur, is set at 1.8 mg/day.
    Importance- To Body:
    (Not Considered Essential)
    Distribution- In Body:
    * Approx. % of Body Mass
    Dietary intake is estimated at 6 to 18 µg/day, with less than 5% absorbed. The Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) of dietary vanadium, beyond which adverse effects may occur, is set at 1.8 mg/day
    Vanadium compounds are poorly absorbed through the gastrointestinal system.
    Excess Effects:
    Effects have been reported after oral or inhalation exposures on blood parameters, liver, neurological development, and other organs in rats.
    Deficiency Effects:
    Deficiencies in vanadium result in Reduced Growth in rats, (application to human physiology unknown).
    Sources Food:
    None listed
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    The vanadyl ion is abundant in seawater, having an average concentration of 30 nM. Some mineral water springs also contain the ion in high concentrations. For example, springs near Mount Fuji contain as much as 54 μg per liter.
    The cosmic abundance of vanadium in the universe is 0.0001%, making the element nearly as common as copper or zinc.
    Supplemental information:
    All vanadium compounds should be considered toxic.

  • Vibrio vulnificus
    Type: Parasite
    Name: Vibrio vulnificus
    Importance- to Body:
    Cutaneous Infection
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin; Cellulitis with bullous manifestations. Predilection in patients with liver disease.
    Epidemiology: Curved, gram-negative rods
    Food Sources:
    Associated with fins of tilapia fish and common carp.
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Requires saline environment to live. Manifestations occur within 7 days of exposure to seawater. Infection occurs April through October.
    Diagonosis:
    Microbiologic culture, Clinical history
    Treatment:
    First-line antimicrobial agents include cefotaxime and or ceftazidime, plus doxycycline. All quinolones, ceftriaxone cefepime, piperacillin, ticarcillin, piperacillin/ticarcillin/clavulanate, imipenem, and meropenem, Requires surgical incision and drainage. Antibiotic duration usually 4 weeks or longer.
    Supplemental information:
    Source: Cutaneous Manifestations Of Waterborne Infections by: Lucinda Elko, MD, RPh, Keith Rosenbach, MD, PhD*, and John Sinnott, MD

  • Vitamin A
    None listedType: Compound
    Vitamin: A
    Name: Retinal, Retinol
    RDA:
    Males: 5000 IU
    Females: 4000 IU
    Importance- to Body:
    Required for synthesis of photoreceptor pigments of rods and cones, integrity of skin and mucosae, normal tooth and bone development; normal reproductive capabilities; acts with vitamin E to stabilize cell membranes.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Group of compounds including retinol and retinal; 90% is stored in liver, which can supply body needs for a year; stable to heat, acids, alkalis; easily oxidized; rapidly destroyed by exposure to light.
    Excess Effects:
    Toxic when ingested in excess of 50,000 IU daily for months; symptoms: Nausea, Vomiting, Anorexia, Headache, Hair Loss, Bone and Joint Pain, Bone Fragility, Enlargement of Liver, Enlargement of spleen
    Deficiency Effects:
    Most prevalent vitamin deficiency in the world. Night Blindness, Epithelial changes: Dry Skin, Dry Hair, Skin Sores; Increased Respiratory, Digestive, Urogenital infections, Drying of conjunctiva, Clouding of Cornea
    Food Sources:
    Formed from pro vitamin carotene found in Deep-Yellow vegetables, and Deep-Green Leafy Vegetables; vitamin A can be found in Fish Liver Oils, Egg Yolk, Liver, Fortified Foods (Milk, Margarine).
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Vitamin B1
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B1
    Name: Thiamin, Thiamine
    RDA:1.5 mg
    Importance- to Body:
    Part of coenzyme cocarboxylase, which acts in carbohydrate metabolism; required for transformation of pyruvic acid to acetyl CoA, for synthesis of pentose sugars and acetylcholine; for oxidation of alcohol.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Rapidly destroyed by heat; very limited amount stored in body; excess eliminated in urine.
    Excess Effects:
    None listed
    Deficiency Effects:
    Beriberi: Decreased Appetite; Gastrointestinal Disturbances; Peripheral Nerve Changes indicated by Weakness of Legs, Cramping of Calf Muscles, Numbness of Feet; Heart Enlarges, Tachycardia
    Food Sources:
    Lean meats, Liver, Eggs, Whole Grains, Leafy Greens, Legumes
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Vitamin B2
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B2
    Name: Riboflavin
    RDA:1.5 mg
    Importance- to Body:
    Present in body as coenzymes FAD and FMN (flavin mononucleotide), both of which act as hydrogen acceptors in body; also is component of amino acid oxidases.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Named for its similarity to ribose sugar; has green-yellow fluorescence; quickly decomposed by UV, visible light, alkalis; body stores are carefully guarded; excess eliminated in urine.
    Excess Effects:
    None listed
    Deficiency Effects:
    Among the most common vitamin deficiencies.
    Dermatitis; Cracking of lips at corners (Cheilosis); lips and tongue become purple-red and shiny; Ocular problems: Light Sensitivity, Blurred Vision
    Food Sources:
    Liver, Yeast, Egg White, Whole Grains, Meat, Poultry, Fish, Legumes, Milk
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Vitamin B3
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B3
    Name: Niacin, Niacinamide
    RDA:20 mg
    Importance- to Body:
    Constituent of NAD and NADP (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate), coenzymes involved in glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, fat breakdown; inhibits cholesterol synthesis.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Simple organic compounds stable to acids, alkalis, heat, light, oxidation (even boiling does not decrease potency); very limited amount stored in body, day-to-day supply is desirable; excess excreted in urine.
    Excess Effects:
    Result of mega doses; Hyperglycemia; Vasodilation leading to flushing of skin, Tingling Sensations; Liver Damage, Gout.
    Deficiency Effects:
    Pellagra after months of deprivation (rare in U.S.); early signs are vague: Listlessness, Headache, Weight Loss, Loss of Appetite; Progresses to soreness and redness of tongue and lips; Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Dermatitis
    Food Sources:
    Poultry, Meat, Fish
    Lesser Sources: Liver, Yeast, Peanuts, Potatoes, Leafy-Green Vegetables
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Vitamin B5
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B5
    Name: Pantothenic Acid
    RDA:10 mg
    Importance- to Body:
    Functions in form of coenzyme A in reactions that remove of transfer acetyl group, e.g., formation of acetyl CoA from pyruvic acid, oxidation and synthesis of fatty acids; also involved in synthesis of steroids and heme of hemoglobin.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Quite stable, little loss of activity with cooking except in acidic or alkaline solutions; liver, kidney, brain, adrenal, heart tissues contain large amounts.
    Excess Effects:
    None listed
    Deficiency Effects:
    (neuropathy of alcoholics is thought to be related to deficits).
    Symptoms are vague: Loss of Appetite, Abdominal Pain, Mental Depression, Pains in Arms and Legs, Muscle Spasms, Neuromuscular Degeneration
    Food Sources:
    Widely distributed in animal foods, Whole Grains, Legumes, Liver, Yeast, Egg Yolk, Meat is an especially good source; some produced by enteric bacteria
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Vitamin B6
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B6
    Name: Pyridoxine, Pyridoxamine, Pyridoxal
    RDA: 2 mg
    Importance- to Body:
    Active form is coenzyme pyridoxal phosphate. which functions in several enzyme systems involved in amino acid metabolism; also required for conversion of tryptophan to niacin, for glycogenolysis, formation of antibodies.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Group of three pyridines occurring in both free and phosphorylated forms in body; stable to heat, acids; destroyed by alkalis, light; body stores very limited.
    Excess Effects:
    Depressed Deep Tendons Reflexes, Numbness, Loss of Sensation in Extremities
    Deficiency Effects:
    Infants: Nervous Irritability, Convulsions, Anemia, Vomiting, Weakness, Abdominal Pain
    Adults: Seborrhea Lesions around eyes and mouth
    Food Sources:
    Meat, Poultry, Fish
    Lesser Sources: Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes, Tomatoes, Spinach
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Vitamin B7
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B7
    Name: Biotin
    RDA:Not established; probably about 0.3 mg (because biotin content of feces and urine is greater than dietary intake, it is assumed that formation of the vitamin by enteric bacteria provides far more than is needed).
    Importance- to Body:
    Functions as coenzyme for a number of enzymes that catalyze carboxylation, decarboxylation, deamination reactions; essential for reactions of Krebs cycle, for formation of purines and nonessential amino acids.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Some is synthesized by bacteria in gastrointestinal tract. In tissues, is usually combined with protein; stored in minute amounts, particularly in liver, kidneys, brain, adrenal glands. Urea derivative containing sulfur; crystalline in its free form; stable to heat, light, acids
    Excess Effects:
    None listed
    Deficiency Effects:
    Scaly skin, Muscular Pains, Pallor, Anorexia, Nausea, Fatigue; Elevated Blood Cholesterol Levels
    Food Sources:
    Liver, Egg Yolk, Legumes, Nuts
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Vitamin B9
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B9
    Name: Folic Acid (Folacin),Folinic Acid
    RDA:0.4 mg
    Importance- to Body:
    Basis of coenzymes that act in synthesis of methionine and certain other amino acids, choline, DNA; essential for formation of red blood cells.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Synthesized by enteric bacteria. The pure vitamin is bright-yellow crystaline compound; stable to heat; easily oxidized in acidic solutions and light; stored mainly in liver.
    Excess Effects:
    None listed
    Deficiency Effects:< br/> Macrocytic or Megaloblastic Anemia; Gastrointestinal Disturbances, Diarrhea
    Food Sources:
    Liver, Deep-Green Vegetables, Yeast, Lean Beef, Eggs, Veal, Whole Grains
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Vitamin B12
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: B12
    Name: Cyanocobalamin, Hydroxycobalamin, Methylcobalamin
    RDA:3-6 µg
    Importance- to Body:
    Functions as coenzyme in all cells, particularly in gastrointestinal tract, nervous system, and bone marrow; in bone marrow, acts in synthesis of DNA; when absent, erythrocytes do not divide but continue to increase in size.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Most complex vitamin; contains cobalt; stable to heat; inactivated by light and strongly acidic or basic solutions; intrinsic factor required for transport across intestinal membrane; stored principally in liver; liver stores of 2000-3000 µg sufficient to provide for body needs for 3-5 years.
    Excess Effects:
    None listed
    Deficiency Effects:
    Most cases reflect impaired absorption rather than actual deficit
    Pernicious Anemia, Pallor, Anorexia, Dyspnea, Weight Loss, Neurological Disturbances
    Food Sources:
    Not found in plant foods or butter
    Liver, Meat, Poultry, Fish, Dairy, Eggs
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Vitamin C
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: C
    Name: Ascorbic Acid,L-Ascorbic Acid
    RDA: 60 mg (100 mg for those who smoke)
    Importance- to Body:
    Acts in hydroxylation reactions in formation of nearly all connective tissues; in conversion of tryptophan to serotonin; in conversion of cholesterol to bile salts; helps protect vitamins A and E and dietary fats from oxidation.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Simple 6-carbon crystalline compound derived from glucose; rapidly destroyed by heat, light, alkalis; about 1500 mg is stored in body, particularly in adrenal gland, retina, intestine, pituitary; when tissues are saturated.
    Excess Effects:
    Generally large doses may cause Gastrointestinal Discomfort, Headache, Trouble Sleeping, and Flushing of the Skin. Results of mega doses (10 or more times RDA); Enhanced Mobilization of Bone Minerals and Blood Coagulation; Exacerbation of Gout; Kidney Stone Formation
    Deficiency Effects:
    Defective formation of intercellular cement; Fleeting Joint Pains, Poor Tooth and Bone Growth; Poor Wound Healing, Increased Susceptibility to Infection; Extreme deficit causes Scurvy (more generally known as Periodontal Disease today).
    Food Sources:
    Fruit, Tomatoes, Cantaloupe, Strawberries, Vegetables, Potatoes, Leafy Greens
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • Vitamin D
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: D
    Name: Antirachitic Factor, Ergocalciferol, Cholecalciferol
    RDA: 400 IU
    Importance- to Body:
    Functionally a hormone; increases calcium blood levels by enhancing absorption of calcium; in conjunction with PTH, mobilizes calcium from bones; both mechanisms serve calcium homeostasis of blood (essential for normal neuromuscular function, blood clotting, bone and took formation).
    Distribution- in Body:
    Group of chemically distinct sterols; concentrated in liver and to lesser extent in skin, kidneys, spleen, other tissues; stable to heat, light, acids, alkalis, oxidation.
    Excess Effects:
    1800 IU/day may be toxic to children, massive doses induce toxicity in adults; symptoms: Vomiting, Diarrhea, Weight Loss, Calcification of Soft Tissues, Renal Damage
    Deficiency Effects:
    Faulty mineralization of Bones and Teeth, Rickets in children, Osteomalacia in adults; Poor Muscle Tone, Restlessness, Irritability
    Food Sources:
    Fish Liver Oils, Eggs Yolk, Fortified Milk.
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is chief form in body cells; produced in skin by irradiation of 7- dehydrocholesterol by UV light; active form (1,25- dihydroxyvitamin D3) produced by chemical modification of vitamin D3 in liver, then kidneys.
    Supplemental information:

  • Vitamin E
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: E
    Name: Antisterility Factor,Tocopherols,Tocotrienols
    RDA: 30 IU
    Importance- to Body:
    An antioxidant that disarms free radicals; helps prevent oxidation of vitamins A and C in intestine; in tissues, decreases oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids, thus helps maintain integrity of cell membranes.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Group of related compounds called tocopherols, chemically related to sex hormones; stored primarily in muscle and adipose tissues; resistant to heat, light, acids; unstable in presence of oxygen.
    Excess Effects:
    Thrombophlebitis, Hypertension; Slow Wound Healing
    Deficiency Effects:
    Extremely rare, precise effects uncertain: possible Hemolysis of RBC's, Macrocytic Anemia; Fragile Capillaries
    Food Sources:
    Vegetable oils, Margarine, Whole Grains, Dark-Green Leafy Vegetables, Seeds, Nuts
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Supplemental information:

  • Vitamin K
    Type: Compound
    Vitamin: K
    Name: Phylloquinone, Menaquinones,Phytomenadione (K1)
    RDA:
    Males: 70 µg
    Females: 55 µg
    Obtaining adequate amount is not a problem.
    Importance- to Body:
    Essential for formation of clotting proteins and some other proteins made by liver; as intermediate in electron transport chain, participates in oxidative phosphorylation in all body cells.
    Distribution- in Body:
    Most synthesized by coliform bacteria in large intestine. In a number of related compounds known as quinones; small amounts stored in liver; heat resistant; destroyed by acids, alkalis, light, oxidizing agents; activity antagonized by certain anticoagulants and antibiotics that interfere with synthetic activity of enteric bacteria.
    Excess Effects:
    None listed, (not stored in appreciable amounts).
    Deficiency Effects:
    Easy Bruising and Easy Bleeding (prolonged clotting time)
    Food Sources:
    Leafy Green Vegetables, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Pork Liver
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    None listed
    Supplemental information:

  • w

  • Water
    Type: Compound
    Name: Water (H2O)
    RDA: At least 64 ounces
    Importance- to Body:
    Aids in Digestion, Lubricates Eyes, Lubricates Joints, Maintains Body Temperature, Protects Spinal Cord, Aids in removing Toxins and Waste, Good for Skin, Keeps Body Hydrated!
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Gastrointestinal Tract, Bloodstream
    Excess Effects:
    Death, Water Intoxication (Hyper-hydration, Drowning), Nausea and Vomiting, Muscle Weakness, Confusion, Upset Stomach
    Deficiency Effects:
    Dehydration, Fatigue, Headaches, Dark Urine, Bad Breath, Constipation, Dry/Pale Lips, Scaly Skin, Poor Concentration, Dry Mouth
    Food Sources:
    Cucumbers, Tomatoes, Celery, Carrots, Watermelon, Oranges, Iceberg Lettuce, Sweet Peppers, Cabbage, Broccoli, Zucchini, Cauliflower, etc.
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Lakes, Rivers, Springs, Glaciers, Ice, Rain, Ocean
    Supplemental information:
    Transparent, tasteless, odorless, and nearly colorless.

    Works Cited:
    Laskey, Jen. “The Health Benefits of Water.” Everyday Health, Everyday Health, 16 Feb. 2015, www.everydayhealth.com/water-health/water-body-health.aspx.

  • x

  • Xylitol
    Type: Compound
    Name: Xylitol (CH2(C5H12O5)
    RDA: 50g
    Importance- to Body:
    Skin, Eyes, Gastrointestinal, Other
    Distribution- in Body:
    Skin, Gastrointestinal
    Excess Effects:
    Allergic Reactions, Diarrhea, Flatulence
    Deficiency Effects:
    None Listed
    Food Sources:
    Berries, Oats, Sugar Cane, Beets, Birch (natural), Raw Xylitol, Sugar-free Gum, Candy, Mints, Jam, Syrup, Honey, Protein Powders, Protein Bars, Peanut Butter, Packaged Foods, Fruit Juice, Chocolate, Honey, Sauces, Condiments
    Environmental/Geographic Sources:
    Toothpaste, Mouthwash, Floss, Cosmetics, Face Cleansers, Medicine
    Supplemental information:
    Approved as a food additive in the United States, Sugar Alcohol (Polyalcohol), Can have a Laxative Effect, Not Safe for Dogs

    Works Cited
    “Xylitol: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Dosage, and Warning.” WebMD, WebMD, www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-996/xylitol.

  • z

  • Zinc
    ZincType: Trace Element
    Periodic Element: (Zn)
    RDA: ~15 mg.
    Importance- To Body:
    Constituent of several enzymes; as component of carbonic anhydrase, important in CO2 metabolism; required for normal growth, wound healing, taste, smell, sperm production.
    Distribution- In Body:
    * Approx. % of Body Mass
    Concentrated in Liver, Kidneys, Brain; excreted in feces
    Excess Effects:
    Fever, Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Difficulty in walking; Slurred speech; Mask-like Facial Expression, Tremors
    Deficiency Effects:
    Growth Retardation; Impaired Cell Growth, Impaired Cell Repair, Poor Wound Healing, Learning impairment; Impaired Sense of Taste, Impaired Sense of smell, Small Reproductive Glands, Depressed Immunity
    Sources Food:
    Meats, Liver, Seafood, Eggs, Legumes, Milk, Green Vegetables, Cereals, Nuts, Wheat germ, Yeast
    Sources Environmental/Geographic:
    None listed
    Supplemental Information: