18 May 09 VITAMINS – GENERAL INFORMATION

However, it is worth noting that certain foods such as potatoes, which are rich in Vitamin C, also contain an enzyme, ascorbic acid oxidase.

When vegetables are heated slowly, the enzyme becomes active and destroys the ascorbic acid. But if the vegetables are rapidly blanched by immersing in boiling water, then the enzyme does not render the Vitamin Ñ inactive.

The Â group vitamins have been claimed to be of use in nervous disorders and as a good pick-me-up for debility, nervous exhaustion and that run-down feeling.

Vitamin Bl, or thiamine, is found in cereals, meat and eggs. A lack of thiamine produces the disease known as beri-beri, a condition seen in World War 2 in prisoners of war fed on a diet of white rice and little else.

Now in our society, the same disease, which affects the heart and the peripheral nerves, is seen mainly in those addicted to alcohol.

Some people can develop an allergy to the synthetic Vitamin Bl tablets or injections.

Vitamin B2, or riboflavin, is found in dairy products and green vegetables, but is widely distributed throughout most natural foodstuffs.

A lack of riboflavin affects the skin and mucous membranes.

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