DRUG DEPLETION WARNING! FEMALE HORMONES Product Causing Depletion - Oral Contraceptives (Birth Control Pills) Nutrient Depleted Significance of Depletion Vitamin B-21 Vitamin B-2 (Riboflavin): A depletion can stunt the formation of red blood cells, impair production of antibodies and inhibit the normal breakdown and metabolism of starches, fats and proteins. A deficiency can lead to tired eyes, cataracts, a decrease in the levels of other nutrients that interact with Vitamin B-2 (such as iron and B-6) and symptoms including sores and cracks in the corners of the mouth.10 Vitamin B-62,3,6 Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine): A depletion can lead to the development or increase in symptoms of the following: fatigue, carpal tunnel syndrome, water retention, irritability, increased PMS symptoms, sleep disturbances, allergies, arthritis, asthma and a compromised immune system possibly leading to lowered immunity to cancer and a decrease in the production of antibodies. A prolonged deficiency can contribute to the development of heart disease because a deficiency of B vitamins elevates homocysteine levels – a contributing factor to heart disease.10 Vitamin B-125 Vitamin B-12 (Cyanocobalamin): A depletion can lead to anemia, improper digestion and metabolism of starches and fats, nerve damage, abnormal growth and infertility including symptoms such as fatigue, digestive disorders, memory loss, hallucinations, eye problems and an uneven walk.10 Vitamin C6,7 Vitamin C: Depletion weakens immune system functions and may lead to respiratory infections, increased asthma symptoms, stroke, susceptibility to some forms of cancer, prolonged wound-healing time, bruising, blood clots, gum disease and damage to nerves, eyes and vascular system. Extreme deficiency can lead to Scurvy with symptoms of depression, hypochondria and hysteria. Also triggers anxiety and overexcitement.10 Folic Acid1 Folic Acid: Deficiency can lead to fatigue, anemia, weakness and low energy, increased incidence of some birth defects, cervical dysplasia and elevated homocysteine level which is a major risk factor in heart disease. Can lead to problems with clotting and bruising. May also contribute to depression and anxiety.10 Zinc8 Zinc: Depletion slows the healing of wounds and can lead to lowered immune function and impaired sense of taste and smell.10 Magnesium9 Magnesium: Depletion inhibits bone formation and mineral metabolism, weakens muscles and nerves and leaves lining of arterial vessels unprotected from stress. It can also alter calcium and potassium levels. Deficiency can lead to muscle weakness and twitching, depression, dizziness, high blood pressure and heart disease.10 It is estimated that 75% of Americans are magnesium-deficient. Valuable Resources Suggested Products to Support the Depletion/Condition Other Lifestyle Changes to help Support this Depletion/Condition Nutritional Supplements Aromatherapy Homeopathy Herbs Flower Essences (for support of emotional stress) Reference Material: 1 Roe, D.A. Drug Induced Nutritional Deficiencies . Second Edition. Westport, CT, Avi Publishing, pp.261-267, 1985. 2 Lumeng, L. et al. “Effect of oral contraceptives on plasma concentration of pyridoxal phosphate.” Am. J. Clin. Nutr. 27:326, 1974. 3 Goodhart, R. Shils , M., Eds. Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease. Philadelphia, Lea and Febiger, 1980. 4 Adams, PW, et al. “Influence of oral contraceptives, pyridoxine (vitamin B-6) and tryptophan on carbohydrate metabolism.” Lancet, 1:759, 1976. 5 Wertalik, LI et al. “Decreased serum B-12 levels with oral contraceptive use.” JAMA 221:1, 337, 1972. 6 Rivers, JM. “Oral contraceptives and ascorbic acid plasma levels.” Am. J. Clin. Nutr. 28:550, 1975. 7 McLeroy, VJ and Schendel, HE. “Influence of oral contraceptives on ascorbic acid concentrations in healthy, sexually mature women.” Am. J. Clin. Nutr. 26:191, 1973. 8 Halsted, JA et al. “Plasma-zinc and copper in pregnancy and after oral contraceptives.” Lancet 2, 278-279, 1968. 9 Olatunbosun, DA et al. “Effect of oral contraceptives on serum magnesium levels.” Int. J. Fertility, 19(4):224-226, 1974. 10 Balch, James F. and Balch, Phyllis A. Prescription for Nutritional Healing . 1990. 11 Pelton, Ross, The Herbal Pharm, Issue 14, “Nutritional Supplements”, 1998. 12 Pelton, Ross, The Herbal Pharm, Issue 13, “Human Intestinal Microflora”, 1998. 13 Pihlcrantz, David, The Herbal Pharm, Issue 17, “Fats and Oils”, 1998. 14 Michael Scholes School of Aromatic Studies. 15 Boericke , W. Homeopathic Materia Medica & Repertory. 1997. 16 Lockie, Andrew. The Family Guide to Homeopathy. 1989. 17 Brinker, Francis. Formulas for Healthful Living. 1995. 18 Bach, Edward and Wheeler, F.J. The Bach Flower Remedies, 1997 (Revised edition)