Orthomolecular medicine (synonyms: vital substance medicine, nutrient medicine, micronutrient medicine) deals with the diagnosis of vital substance deficiencies and the administration of vital substances (micronutrients) – such as vitamins, minerals, trace elements, vital fatty acids, amino acids, as well as secondary plant substances – for preventive health care and health care, as well as for the treatment of diseases. History – The term “orthomolecular” has its origin in the word orthos (Greek) = right, good and molecular, molecule (Latin) = building block of substances. Linus Pauling, American biochemist and two-time Nobel Prize winner, chose this term in 1968 because it vividly illustrates the basic idea of vital substance medicine. Vital substances in optimal dosage and combination protect the organism against diseases, serve as supportive therapy and help to maintain vitality into old age. Definition – Orthomolecular medicine – also called vital substance medicine or micronutrient medicine – is the maintenance of good health and the treatment of disease by altering the concentration of substances in the human body that are normally present in the body and necessary for health. (Linus Pauling, Science 160, 265/1968)
The process
Orthomolecular medicine (vital substances) is based on the knowledge that the human body requires numerous micronutrients (vital substances) in the correct ratio and concentration for the healthy, smooth functioning of all cell systems or organs. Micronutrients are substances that are usually already physiologically, i.e. naturally, present in the human body and are needed to maintain health and vitality. On the one hand, these can be produced by the body itself, on the other hand, they must be ingested through food. These vital substances include vitamins, minerals, trace elements, essential fatty acids, essential amino acids, secondary plant substances and other vital substances (micronutrients). Optimal health protection is guaranteed when all the body’s own substances are present in sufficient concentration in the organism. A macro and/or micronutrient undersupply can be caused both by an insufficient supply (vital substances) – for example because of wrong food preparation, nutrition etc. – and by an individual surplus requirement (vital substances). A macro- and/or micronutrient undersupply can be detected on the basis of laboratory tests. Another measure is a vital substance analysis. This makes it possible to determine the individual macro- and/or micronutrient requirements (vital substances), taking into account all life circumstances such as diet, consumption of stimulants, sport, previous illnesses, long-term medication, etc.
By changing eating habits and by taking additional macro- and/or micronutrients – vitamins, minerals, trace elements, amino acids, secondary plant substances, etc. – a deficiency (vital substance deficiency) can be compensated. Thus, some micronutrients (vital substances) have been proven to prevent diseases and some are even used for dietary treatment of diseases.
Benefits
Micronutrient therapy naturally supports your body and provides it with the micronutrients (vital substances) it needs to stay healthy or become healthy. The additional supply of micronutrients (vital substances) – according to your individual micronutrient requirements – helps you and your body to avoid micronutrient deficiencies. An optimal macro- and/or micronutrient supply (micronutrients) helps to prevent diseases and supports the healing of diseases. Furthermore, complaints and accompanying symptoms of aging are alleviated. Macro- and micronutrients (vital substances) are a valuable addition to your diet. They serve your health, your well-being, your attractiveness and your vitality.
