Selenium in necessary for the enzyme that activates T4. Selenium deficiency can lead to a slow metabolism and excess weight gain. Selenium is also a vital antioxidant, and protects the thyroid from damaging free radicals. 200-400 mcgs of selenium per day is recommended for thyroid health and anti-cancer protection.
Zinc is a vital mineral for the balance of testosterone in both women and men. Testosterone controls the maintenance of the muscle tissue needed to maintain a firm body and a healthy metabolism. Studies show that a deficiency of zinc can lead to a deficiency of testosterone, leading to poor muscle tone and low libido. Supplementing with zinc can also help control the cravings for sweet and salty foods in women with PMS.* For women, 25 mgs per day is recommended.
* A. Favier, Biological Trace Element Research, 1992
Iodide is combined with tyrosine to produce the hormones T4 and T3. These hormones drive cellular metabolism and enable the burning of fat for fuel. Although very few Americans are deficient in iodine, those who have reduced their salt intake may find that they need to supplement this mineral. Generally most multi-vitamin formulas contain enough iodide for healthy individuals. Kelp and other sea vegetables however, provide plentiful iodide combined with enzymes and other trace minerals that can keep both the thyroid and the skin healthy. A single daily dose of 500 mgs of kelp is sufficient to provide mineral support.
AMINO ACIDS
Arginine is an amino acid required for muscle building and preservation and for the smooth functioning of the cardiovascular system. As an aid in weight loss- it is converted in the body into the amino acid ornithine - a building block of growth hormone and insulin like growth hormone. These hormones maintain a youthful metabolism and muscle mass, as well as control the proper repair and growth of skin, nails, hair and organs. Arginine also is required for the production of nitric oxide - a chemical that controls dialation of the blood vessels and arteries, increasing blood flow and the availability of oxygen and nutrients to all tissues of the body. Up to 15 grams (15,000 mgs) of arginine can be taken per day, but smaller amounts are certainly very effective. The most cost-effective form or arginine is free base powder. It is slightly bitter, but well worth the taste. I take 2,000 -3,000 mgs per day before bed as a growth hormone precursor and have noticed in just one month an improvement in muscle tone and definition as well as a distinct reduction of gray hair. As a growth hormone prescursor, take arginine on an empty stomach directly before going to sleep.
Carnitine is involved in fat metabolism and muscle building, carnitine helps break down lipids in the blood stream and transport them into the cellular mitochondria. Vital for energy and maintenance of muscle tissue and burning of excess fat. 500-1,000 mgs per day is recommended.
Tyrosine is an amino acid necessary for thyroid function. It is used to create the hormones T4 and T3, which control metabolism. Tyrosine is also used to produce neurochemicals and it can improve mood and energy. Normal dose for l'tyrosine is 500 -1,000 mgs per day. Other amino acids can interfere with the absorption of l'tyrosine, so it should be taken on an empty stomach.
Phenylalanine is an amino acid that a produces a sense of saiety and helps control over-eating. It is one of the components of neurotransmitters needed for alertness and focus. For appetite suppression, take 250-1,000 mgs before meals (on an empty stomach).
VITAMINS
B Complex Vitamins Although there a certain B vitamins that are particularly important to metabolism, they work synergistically and must be taken together. Niacin (B3) is excellent for circulation and oxygenation of the tissues. Cobalamin (B12) is necessary for energy. Inositol, choline and lecithin are needed for the metabolism of body fat and are known as 'lipotropic' vitamins due to their action in the liver to digest and use fats. Pantothenic acid supports the production of Coenzyme A, the enzyme that helps burn long-chain fatty acids for use as fuel. A good B-complex vitamin should be taken daily with meals.
Alpha Lipoic Acid is a powerful antioxidant that also prevents the storage of fat, while increasing the body's ability to burn it for fuel. It moves blood glucose (sugar) into muscle and organ tissue, rather than into the fat cells.100 - 300 per day mgs is recommended, and to increase the efficiency of this supplement take with your most carbohydrate-heavy (sugar/starch) meal of the day. Low carb dieter's will find that taking alpha lipoic acid will put them into ketosis very quickly, and ward off some of the effects of a 'treat' meal. Hypoglycemics should use ALA with caution, and diabetics with the supervision of their physician.
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