Vitiligo & Vitamins

Vitamins, Minerals and More Are vitamins and minerals important in the treatment of vitiligo? The answer to this question is: yes, they are. Given the fact that a significant number of people with vitiligo show low levels of vitamin C, vitamin B12, and Folic Acid, and considering the importance of these and other vitamins, a supplement that includes the main vitamins and minerals is recommend. This is a helpful complement for Vitiligo treatment. In general a nutritious, well-balance diet is helpful and offers many long-term benefits. Please read the following information to better understand the importance of vitamins and minerals in the treatment of vitiligo. Vitamin A keeps epithelial tissues (the skin and lining of various organs) healthy, and is necessary for the development of cells into their specialised forms (ex. melanocytes). Vitamin A also plays a role in maintaining the immune system. Vitamin C helps strengthen the body's defence system. It plays a vital role in the formation of collagen (connective tissue) which is necessary to keep your bones, teeth and skin healthy. It is part of the antioxidant trio (which includes vitamin E and beta-carotene) which helps to neutralise highly reactive substances called free radicals, which are known to cause damage to melanocytes. Vitamin E is an antioxidant and protects molecules and cell membranes in the human body against the destructive effects of oxygen-containing free radicals. It plays a key role in the functioning of the immune system. Vit B12 is known as the vitamin that prevents pernicious anaemia. This deficiency is associated to Vitiligo in some cases. The same can be said about Folic Acid. Zinc is a component of many enzymes some of them related to the normal function of the immune system; and is involved in the metabolism of certain vitamins. Copper is involved in the synthesis of connective tissue in the skeleton and blood vessels, it plays a role in the functioning of the immune system. It's important for the pigmentation of skin, hair and eyes. It takes part in the process of repigmentation. It is also an antioxidant. Individuals with certain metabolic diseases, like Wilson's disease, should not take supplements that contain cooper.