Amino Acids

There is a great deal of talk recently about new miraculous substances called antioxidants, in which scientists believe they have discovered a sort of 'Fountain of Youth'. Actually, antioxidants have been around for a long time. Many of the vitamins we rely upon like vitamins C and E, and beta-carotene are antioxidants. But there are other less well known antioxidants that are even more potent which are called the super antioxidants.

These super antioxidants, although not called vitamins because they aren't essential to life, are powerful weapons in our quest for optimum health. There are literally hundreds of scientific studies that show that these super antioxidants can do everything from support heart health to improve normal vision and enhance normal brain function.

Oxidation in the body is a process similar to what happens to metal when it rusts, or to an apple when it turns brown after being cut. And just as a squeeze of lemon juice stops the oxidation of an apple, so do antioxidants stop the 'rusting' inside our bodies caused by 'free radicals.'

The word oxidation come from oxygen, an element that is essential to life, but can be harmful in some forms inside our bodies. A good oxygen molecule has its electrons paired up, making it stable. An unstable or harmful oxygen molecule has a missing electron, creating what is termed a free radical. These are bad because they go around grabbing onto other cells in their attempt to find another electron and become stable. In doing this, they can cause problems with the workings of the cell to which they attach. Scientists speculate that this is what accelerates the aging process.

Free radicals are all around us, in the air we breath, in the food we eat, and even as a natural product of living. In fact, free radicals are used by the immune system to fight off invading bacteria and viruses, but they can become a problem because of poor diet or living in a polluted environment. Antioxidants directly combat free-radicals, mitigating their negative effects.

It is the excessive free radicals, not balanced properly with antioxidants, that do damage. The ideal body, with ideal nutrition, in an ideal environment, would have the ability to counteract the free radicals it produces, and keep them under control. Eating and normal metabolic processes are responsible for a large percentage of the free radicals the body must deal with.

Free Radical Sources:

· Auto Exhaust
· Chlorinated Water
· Cigarette Smoke
· Cleaning Products
· Deodorant Sprays
· Food Additives
· Fuels
· Herbicides
· Pesticides
· Prescription Drugs
· Radiation
· Rancid Oil
· Smog
· Spray Cans
· Toxic Fumes
· Many Others

Antioxidants

There is a great deal of talk recently about new miraculous substances called antioxidants, in which scientists believe they have discovered a sort of 'Fountain of Youth'. Actually, antioxidants have been around for a long time. Many of the vitamins we rely upon like vitamins C and E, and beta-carotene are antioxidants. But there are other less well known antioxidants that are even more potent which are called the super antioxidants.

These super antioxidants, although not called vitamins because they aren't essential to life, are powerful weapons in our quest for optimum health. There are literally hundreds of scientific studies that show that these super antioxidants can do everything from support heart health to improve normal vision and enhance normal brain function.

Oxidation in the body is a process similar to what happens to metal when it rusts, or to an apple when it turns brown after being cut. And just as a squeeze of lemon juice stops the oxidation of an apple, so do antioxidants stop the 'rusting' inside our bodies caused by 'free radicals.'

The word oxidation come from oxygen, an element that is essential to life, but can be harmful in some forms inside our bodies. A good oxygen molecule has its electrons paired up, making it stable. An unstable or harmful oxygen molecule has a missing electron, creating what is termed a free radical. These are bad because they go around grabbing onto other cells in their attempt to find another electron and become stable. In doing this, they can cause problems with the workings of the cell to which they attach. Scientists speculate that this is what accelerates the aging process.

Free radicals are all around us, in the air we breath, in the food we eat, and even as a natural product of living. In fact, free radicals are used by the immune system to fight off invading bacteria and viruses, but they can become a problem because of poor diet or living in a polluted environment. Antioxidants directly combat free-radicals, mitigating their negative effects.

It is the excessive free radicals, not balanced properly with antioxidants, that do damage. The ideal body, with ideal nutrition, in an ideal environment, would have the ability to counteract the free radicals it produces, and keep them under control. Eating and normal metabolic processes are responsible for a large percentage of the free radicals the body must deal with.

Free Radical Sources:

· Auto Exhaust
· Chlorinated Water
· Cigarette Smoke
· Cleaning Products
· Deodorant Sprays
· Food Additives
· Fuels
· Herbicides
· Pesticides
· Prescription Drugs
· Radiation
· Rancid Oil
· Smog
· Spray Cans
· Toxic Fumes
· Many Others

Apple Cider Vinegar

For centuries people have known that drinking apple cider vinegar makes them feel better. Now scientists know that apple cider vinegar contains cholesterol-supporting pectin and the perfect balance of 19 minerals, including potassium, phosphorus, chlorine, sodium, magnesium, calcium, sulfur, iron, fluorine and silicon. In fact, apple cider vinegar contains 93 different components that can help your body.

Possible Benefits from Apple Cider Vinegar:

Support of normal blood pressure
Immune function support
Thyroid support
Promotion of proper digestion
Improved metabolism
Support of gall bladder
Weight control
Support of proper bone growth
Maintain healthy skin
Soothes sunburn, shingles and bites
Topically helps prevent dandruff, baldness and itching scalp

Arginine

Arginine is considered a non-essential amino acid because under most conditions it is produced by the body from other amino acids. It is, however, essential for newborns and is conditionally essential for adults with certain health challenges. Arginine supplementation is proported to improve cardiovascular, reproductive, lung, kidney, gastrointestinal, liver and immune functions, and to facilitate wound healing.

The mode of action for the role arginine plays in improving health and well-being is the result of its conversion to nitric oxide (NO) in cells that line the inside of the blood vessels, the endothelial cells. Nitric oxide causes relaxation of smooth muscles and is the body's most potent vasodilator (an agent that causes widening of the lumen or opening of blood vessels), and is an important regulator of blood pressure.

A review of studies on L-arginine and its role in the management of cardiovascular health was recently published (Ann Pharmacother 2001 Jun; 35 (6):755-64). The conclusions reached were that L-arginine improved endothelial function through vasodilatation.

Most of the studies show that benefits of arginine were short-term and small scale and require follow up to confirm the results. However, the list of benefits includes:

Supports normal blood pressure and normal circulation
Supports cardiovascular functioning
Improves immune response
Improves exercise capacity
Supports the micro-circulation of the liver
Supports sexual performance due to relaxation of the blood vessels in the genitalia, causing increased blood flow and engorgement of the region.

Carnitine

Carnitine is not an amino acid in the strictest definition, but because it has a chemical structure like an amino acid it is usually put in that category. The main function of carnitine in the human body to help transport long chain fatty acids which are burned inside cells to provide a major source of energy for your muscles. Thus carnitine is used in health supplements to boost energy, prevent fatigue, and maintain the body.

Carnitine also increases the use of fat as an energy source, thus supporting a healthy heart, liver, and muscles. By doing so, carnitine helps to support normal blood lipids and sugar.

Carnitine has the added benefit that it increases the effects of the anti-oxidants vitamin E and vitamin C.

Because men normally have more muscle mass than women they may need more carnitine. Vegetarians also are likely to need more carnitine supplementation since vegetable protein contains no carnitine. Also, carnitine supplements have been suggested to enhance athletic performance and endurance and medical studies have also indicated that carnitine helps support a healthy heart.

Carnitine supplemental forms include: L-carnitine, DL-carnitine, and acetyl-L-carnitine.

Carotenoids

Carotenoids are a major topic in nutrition and health circles today. Why are they important? Because vitamin A, long known to be crucial for normal vision, has been discovered to have a whole host of diverse biological functions. Its role in controlling the way in which cells divide, develop, and mature has become an area of much interest among scientists.
Research Findings

Eye Structure and function

Research has shown that people who consumed 3.5 or more daily servings of fruits and vegetables (in which carotenoids occur naturally) had enhanced eye health.

Immune System Enhancement

Studies suggest that carotenoids enhance immune function by a variety of mechanisms.

Heart Health

Cardiovascular health is improved by 50% in a group of men who took beta-carotene supplements every other day for five years.

Longevity

Dr. Richard Cutler from the National Institute on Aging, Gerontology Research Center, supports a significant link between lifespan and plasma carotenoid levels. He states that “Carotenoids may be biologically active not only as a protective agent, but also as a longevity determinant”.

Beta-carotene is the most well-known of the carotenoids and the predominate one in carrots, sweet potatoes, broccoli, and cantaloupe. Beta-carotene, the molecule that contains two molecules of vitamin A, plays a major role as a contributor of vitamin A in our diets. In the last few years, food scientists have been able to measure not only beta-carotene in fruits and vegetables, but also numerous other carotenoids. Today we know that provitamin A carotenoids include approximately 50 carotenoids which can be converted into at least one molecule of vitamin A. The other carotenoids (some 600 total in nature) may have important metabolic effects on the body independent of vitamin A. These as yet unidentified functions need to be considered when interpreting studies that claim health promotion properties from carotenoid-rich vegetables.

Carotenoids are converted to vitamin A mainly in the intestine and liver. About 10% of dietary carotenoids are converted to vitamin A in the body and contribute 25% of our total vitamin A. We now know that many carotenoids also have antioxidant properties and studies are underway to determine other health benefits of carotenoid metabolites besides the long-accepted role as precursors of vitamin A. Analytical data are available for five of the carotenoids found in foods and measurable in the blood. These include beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, lutein, lycopene, and beta-cryptoxanthin.

Choline

Choline has been known to be a B-vitamin for various species of animals and insects. However the evidence for considering choline to be an essential nutrient for humans was inconclusive until recently. There have now been several studies that clearly show that adequate choline is necessary for the prevention of liver damage, as assessed by measuring the activity of a specific liver enzyme.

Choline is a dietary component that has an important role in the structural integrity of cell membranes, lipid metabolism, and nervous system functions, including memory. Choline is also a necessary component for the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, phospholipids and the methyl donor betaine.

The body can manufacture choline from precursors, however this does not appear to be adequate to meet the body’s nutritional need for choline. In a short-term preliminary study, healthy men were fed a diet with adequate precursor compounds, but deficient in choline. The results showed decreased choline stores and liver damage.
Food sources of choline include milk, eggs, liver and peanuts. Lecithin, an emulsifier used in food processing, is also a dietary source of choline.

Cautions:

Choline has a very low degree of toxicity. Extremely high doses of choline are associated with fishy body odor, sweating, and gastrointestinal complaints including vomiting.

Chondroitin Sulfate

Natural Support for Joints

People are getting excellent results using a combination of natural supplements that help support the normal structure and function of the joints.
The approach includes a combination of two nutritional supplements called glucosamine HCL and chondroitin sulfate. Both glucosamine and chondroitin are widely accepted and available.

These are substances which we already consume and which our bodies produce in very small quantities. Glucosamine HCL and chondroitin sulfate have no known negative side effects.

Glucosamine HCL and chondroitin sulfate provide the building blocks necessary for normal repair of joint tissue.

Chondroitin Very Effective:

In a sixth-month-long, double-blind study, chondroitin sulfate had long - lasting benefits on normal range of motion. In this randomized test, 146 patients with knee stress were given either a placebo or chondroitin sulfate for six months. Research showed that those on chondroitin sulfate responded slower but for a longer period of time, up to three months.

Chondroitin sulfate acts like a collection of magnets attracting fluid into proteoglycan molecules. This is important to your body for two main reasons: 1) this fluid sweeps nutrients into your cartilage and 2) the fluid acts as a spongy shock absorber.

Chondroitin can protect your existing cartilage from age-related stress. It does this by blocking certain cartilage destroying enzymes and enzymes that prevent transporting of nutrients.

Chondroitin sulfates have been found effective for the common aches associated with aging. Glucosamine or chondroitin can work synergistically when taken together to stimulate cartilage production. Your body can heal itself by using both of these supplements. The glucosamine and chondroitin combination is a powerful "natural" support for aging joints.

Chondroitin Sulfate is also known as: Chondroitin

Creatine

Creatine is a naturally-occurring amino acid found in a variety of foods, with the richest source being lean red meat. A two-pound beef steak contains about 5 grams of creatine. More than 95% of the creatine in your body is stored in the muscle cells.

Additionally, creatine enhances muscle cellular hydration "volumizing". Muscle cells hold more water, becoming larger and better defined. This enhances the "ripped" look that bodybuilders strive to attain.

First introduced to Olympic athletes, this amino acid metabolite provides increased muscle energy by maximizing ATP (adensoine triphosphate) output. This is important because during intense training, ATP, which does for your muscles what gasoline does for your car, becomes depleted and causes muscle fatigue.

When used in conjunction with a vigorous training regimen, experts say creatine can add up to 10 pounds of muscle mass to a person's body.

Creatine is a naturally occurring metabolite which helps recycle the body's supply of ATP for increased energy output, strength and endurance. Research indicates that athletes who exercise and supplement their diet with creatine monohydrate may increase the total creatine within their muscles. Creatine monohydrate is research proven to help increase peak power, delay fatigue, and increase energy during high intensity exercise.
Creatine is also known as: Creatine Monohydrate

Coenzyme Q-10

The nutrient coenzyme Q10 is found in every cell in the body, which explains its other name, ubiquinone (from the word ubiquitous and the coenzyme quinone). Ubiquinone is a naturally-occurring substance with a molecular structure that is similar to vitamin K. Because the body must have energy available to perform even the simplest operation, coenzyme Q10 is pivotal for the body's cells, tissues and organs.

Aging, poor eating habits and stress may affect the body's ability to provide adequate amounts of coenzyme Q10. Coenzyme Q10 is an excellent and powerful antioxidant, which may explain many of the health benefits derived from it.

Known results of using Coenzyme Q10 as an oral supplement are energy increase, improvement of heart function, support of gum health, a boost to the immune system and possible life extension.

The greatest amount of the coenzyme (and, therefore, the greatest need for the enzyme) is contained in the heart and liver, which accounts for its apparent positive results in the support of cardiovascular health.

Coenzyme Q10 may prove of benefit to those who are overweight because it improves the efficiency of energy production at the cellular level. It has also demonstrated excellent results in clinical trials on gum health.

Dahlulin

Dahlulin is the optimum nutritional food for the natural intestinal flora otherwise known as probiotics. Promoting the optimal growth of these vital organisms helps to maintain the health of the pH of your body's digestive system. This makes it useful for both athletic sports supplements and for people wanting to control hunger or appetite cravings in order to lose weight.

Weight loss:

Research had indicated that dahlulin supports normal blood sugar levels for up to 10 hours, helping to control cravings and hunger. Dahlulin has also been shown to conserve the body's glycogen stores, increasing the total energy reserves and providing an effective means of suppressing appetite.

Athletic Support:

Dahlulin has also been shown to conserve the body's glycogen stores, increasing the energy reserves providing endurance, strength, vigor, and stamina. When combined with chromium in a supplement dahlulin is especially helpful in the metabolism of glucose, thus stabilizing blood sugar levels and helping to increase lean muscle and boost endurance.

Dahlulin is a complex carbohydrate and when combined with the herb Siberian ginseng can help power you through even the toughest workouts, athletic programs, or competitive events.
Dahlulin is also known as: Dahlia inulin.

Pregnenolone DHEA

Pregnenolone is a naturally-occurring androgen (hormone), a neurosteroid, or "brain steroid" produced by the adrenal glands. Pregnenolone is found in plasma, adrenal glands, liver, skin, gonads and brain tissue and goes into progesterone and other neurosteroids. Formed from cholesterol, pregnenolone has been a focus of interest to scientists ever since its discovery during the 1930s because it occupies some important metabolic pathways where the body "decides' to make progesterone, DHEA, androgen, estrogen, and corticoids including cortisone, the most potent anti-inflammatory. The first studies were done by the great Canadian neuro-endocrinologist and theoretician, Dr. Hans Selye, who is best known for helping to shape current thinking about the body's response to stress. Selye was fascinated with the hormone even before anyone knew how it fit in the steroid hormone family tree and stated, "The compound possesses, at least in traces, every independent main pharmacological action which has hitherto been shown to be exhibited by any steroid hormone."

Pregnenolone would probably be beneficial for both aging men and women and, like DHEA, drops in effectiveness profoundly with age, although age-related "norms" for pregnenolone have not been as clearly established as for DHEA. Pregnenolone is made in the mitochondria, the chemical factory of the cells and in nerve cells.

Pregnenolone appears to have a wide margin of safety and has been used for over three months in doses exceeding 50 mg per day without apparent toxicity. We still have much to learn about the clinical uses of pregnenolone, especially when combined with DHEA.

Benefits of pregnenolone

Enhances memory
Supports normal sexual response and performance
Immune Enhancement
Normal mood and energy
Life Extension
Normal hormone levels
Normal immune functions
Normal nervous system functions
Enhances well-being

Ferulic Acid

Ferulic acid is an organic acid which contributes to the effectiveness of pycnogenol. Your body's immune system can benefit from ferulic acid. Ferulic acid is also a natural source for the ultraviolet light UV protection.

Ferulic acid works well in an herbal anti-oxidant formula, vitamin, or herbal health supplement.

Supplementation with ferulic acid in combination with weight training can improve strength and increase lean muscle mass.

Ferulic acid is a strong membrane antioxidant. Anaerobic exercise actually produces free radicals, which result in fatigue. Extra antioxidants help prevent free radicals from forming in muscle tissue. This can cause muscle fatigue, loss of endurance, decreased performance, and muscle soreness.

GLA - Gamma-Linolenic Acid

Gamma-Linoeic Acid (GLA) is the result of the body's first biochemical step in the transformation of the main essential fatty acid linoleic acid into important prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are essential to the proper functioning of each cell, while essential fatty acids formed from GLA are required for each cell's structure.
Nature's most potent concentration of GLA comes in the form of borage seed oil (24%). A great deal of scientific research has been conducted with supplements rich in GLA, resulting in significant interest regarding health ailments, as well as those affected by pre-menstrual syndrome, benign breast disease, eczema, psoriasis, obesity, and vascular disorders.

The essential fatty acids combined here have proven to impart a regulatory function on the body's fatty acid metabolism. Fat metabolism is as important, if not more important, than our body's metabolism of proteins and carbohydrates, as evidenced by the drastic rise in fat-related degenerative diseases, such as vascular disease and stroke. Dietary essential fatty acids common to borage seed oil are ultimately converted to hormone-like substances known as prostaglandins, important for the regulation of a host of bodily functions including:

· Inflammation, swelling, & pain
· Pressure in the eye, joints or blood vessels
· Secretions from mucus membranes and their viscosity
· Smooth muscle & autonomic reflexes, gastrointestinal, arterial, ear, heart
· Water retention
· Blood clotting ability
· Allergic response
· Rheumatoid arthritis
· Nerve transmission
· Steroid production & hormone synthesis

Scientists continue to discover the regulating effects of prostaglandins. Without the essential fatty acids, the building blocks of prostaglandins, a malfunction of fat metabolism is certain, as are problems in the regulation of the bodily functions listed above.

For some individuals, flax seed oil may offer only half of the solution. Those deficient in co-factor nutrients, specifically the vitamins pro-A, A, C, E, B2, B6, pantothenic acid, B12, biotin, and the minerals calcium, magnesium, potassium, sulfur, and zinc, sometimes have difficulty in converting the omega-6 fatty acid, linoleic acid, found in borage and other seed oils to the healthful prostaglandins.

Still others are thought to lack the necessary enzyme (catalyst) to make this conversion; particularly those afflicted with diabetes, asthma, cystic fibrosis, multiple sclerosis, alcoholism and the aged. For those suffering from co-factor deficiencies, a broad spectrum multi-vitamin and mineral may be recommended with, perhaps, an oil supplement rich in GLA. Individuals who may lack the proper enzyme system would require a GLA supplement in addition to the flax seed oil.

When considering an essential fatty acid supplement and deciding on either flax or borage seed oils, the most sensible solution may be a formulation of the two. The combination of both flax and borage seed oil yields a true Omega-Twin by providing nature's best of the omega-3 fatty acids in flax with the best of omega-6 fatty acids in GLA rich borage oil.

Supplementation with flax seed & borage seed oils makes good sense for the following reasons:

1. Omega-3 fatty acids and GLA work together on the production of beneficial prostaglandins.

2. Over 60 health problems have proven to benefit from both flax seed and borage seed supplements.

3. Flax seed oil and borage seed oil work together for even better results.

4. Flax seed and borage seed oils combined is less expensive than purchasing them separately.

Conclusion

To achieve optimal health, the answer does not appear to be 'no fat', but the right fat, as common to flax and borage seed oils.

Past and present scientific research supports the use of essential fatty acid nutrients in promoting optimal health. Borage seed oil is recognized as nature's richest source of GLA. These natural plant substances used alone have created a great deal of interest in the treatment of numerous health problems. Evidence exists to suggest the combination of omega-3 fatty acids with gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) may further complement the therapeutic result of either fatty acid used singularly.

Other Gamma Linolenic Acid Information

Scientists at the University of Pennsylvania have reported that high doses of GLA were highly effective in treating rheumatoid arthritis. An earlier study by the same group had shown that administration of 1,100 mg. of GLA per day from borage seed oil reduced synovitis in six of seven patients with rheumatoid arthritis. GLA is rapidly converted to dihomogamma-linolenic acid, the immediate precursor of prostaglandin E1 which is a potent anti-inflammatory agent. Nature's most potent concentration (24%) of GLA comes in the form of borage seed oil.

Other benefits of GLA include

1. Vasodilatation of blood vessels which can reduce high blood pressure

2. Reduction of abnormal blood clotting which can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke

3. Enhanced regulation of immune response

4. Enhanced defense against abnormal cell proliferation.

5. Control of common skin disorder such as eczema.

6. Slowing of some aspects of normal aging.

Glucosamine

Natural Joint Support

Excellent results are being obtained by using a combination of natural supplements for joint support. The approach includes a combination of two nutritional supplements called glucosamine HCL and chondroitin sulfate. Both glucosamine and chondroitin are widely available.

These are substances we already consume in any diet and which our bodies produce in very small quantities. Glucosamine and chondroitin have no known negative side effects.
Glucosamine and chondroitin actually support your body's normal repair mechanism by providing the building blocks it needs.

Glucosamine Soothes Joints

In an eight-week, double-blind trial, glucosamine was found to have long-lasting benefits for all age related joint stress. The randomized test was carried out on 40 patients with one group being given 1.5 g of glucosamine sulfate. Both groups showed improved range of motion, with those using glucosamine showing marked improvement by week eight.

Glucosamine Provides Long-Range Healing

A medical study, conducted on 30 people, revealed the long-lasting effects of glucosamine. The patients took 400 mg of glucosamine sulfate for one week, then one group took glucosamine capsules while the other group took a placebo for the following two weeks. Researchers discovered that those who remained on glucosamine for the entire period improved dramatically, while those taken off the glucosamine regressed, but not to pre-treatment level.

Glucosamine helps the manufacture of collagen, the protein part of a fibrous substance that holds your joints together. Collagen is the major component of the shock-absorbing cushion "articular cartilage" which is the white smooth surface that covers the ends of your body joints like fingers, wrists, knees, and others.

Glucosamine helps bind water in the body's cartilage matrixes. It has been shown to increase collagen and normalize cartilage metabolism, to help keep your cartilage from breaking down. Glucosamine can kick start the production of cartilage main elements and protect them at the same time.

Glutamine

Glutamine is an amino acid widely used to maintain good brain function. Glutamine is a derivative of glutamic acid which is synthesized from the amino acids arginine, ornithine and proline. Glutamine improves mental alertness, clarity of thinking and mood. It is found in animal proteins.

Glutamic acid is also a precursor of GABA, an important neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. Glutamic acid helps transport potassium into the spinal fluid and is itself an excitatory neurotransmitter.

Because glutamic acid cannot cross the blood brain barrier, where most of the metabolism takes place, glutamine, which can cross this barrier, works better in supplement form. Glutamine can also be used by cells like glucose for metabolic energy. Thus is popular in athletic supplements.

Athletic people need more glutamine than more sedentary people. Glutamine is the most plentiful free amino acid in the body's muscle tissue. L-Glutamine plays a very important role in protein metabolism, cell volumizing, and anti-catabolism, which means that it may help prevent muscle breakdown.

Under periods of stress such as very intense workouts, glutamine becomes critical because your body may not be able to make enough of it. But studies show that glutamine supplementation is an effective way to replace these declining levels and thus help maintain peak athletic performance.

Glutamine is the primary source of energy for cells of the GI tract and immune system, thereby providing health benefits to both.

Glutamine is also known as: L-Glutamine

Glutathione

Glutathione is not technically an amino acid, however, due to its close relationship is normally grouped with the amino acids. Most glutathione is found in the liver, where it detoxifies many harmful compounds to be excreted through the bile. Glutathione also helps to maintain the strength of red blood cells and may also protect white blood cells supporting immune function.

Gluthathione is a component of an important antioxidant enzyme in the body, glutathione peroxidase. This enzyme supports the body's elimination of toxins and metabolic waste.

Hesperidin

Hesperidin is one of the bioflavonoids, naturally occurring nutrients usually found in association with Vitamin C. These bioflavonoids include hesperidin, citrin, rutin, flavones, flavonals, catechin, and quercetin.

Hesperidin is linked to capillary health as well as healthy circulation. Like other bioflavinoids, hesperidin works best when given with Vitamin C and other bioflavinoids. No signs of toxicity have been observed with normal intake of hesperidin.

Bioflavonoids are any of a group of colored substances found in many fruits, and enhance the activity of vitamin-C. These substances are not vitamins but were dubbed "vitamin P" by Dr. Albert Szent-Gyorgyi, a famed Hungarian researcher. He is one and the same Gyorgyi who won the Nobel Prize in medicine for his discovery of vitamin C. It was in the course of isolating vitamin C that he came across the bioflavinoids. He had a friend with bleeding gums and thought this condition might have something to do with a vitamin C deficiency. He gave the man some of his raw, impure vitamin C, and the bleeding gums cleared up.

Later on, confronted by a recurrence of bleeding gums, he decided to try again; this time with pure vitamin C, he expected to observe an even more dramatic result. Remarkably, the man's gums went right on bleeding. Szent-Gyorgi re-examined his earlier preparation and decided that the effective impurity was one of the bioflavonoids. He then tried these by themselves, and reported that they worked. He named these substances "vitamin P." The bioflavonoids thus first came into use as primarily as protectors of capillaries, the tiniest blood vessels in the body. A deficiency state has never been identified, so hesperidin is not a true vitamin.

Inosine

Inosine is a metabolic activator. It has been used for pre-heavy training by "world class" powerlifters and by Soviet and Eastern Block strength athletes to increase oxygen-carrying capacity and promote levels of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), a high-energy compound that helps muscle contraction.

Inosine increases the body's natural ability to handle strenuous exercise, workouts, intense training programs, and competitive events. Inosine belongs to a chemical family called purine nucleotides, the structural units of your body's RNA (ribonucleic acid) and DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid). Inosine easily penetrates the cell walls of both your cardiac and skeletal muscles where it helps the generation of ATP. Inosine boosts the production of ATP thus improving respiration and oxygen transport.

Inosine works well in a sports supplement which includes octacosanol, Krebs cycle intermediates, and thermogenic herbs like ginseng or ginger.

Inosine is related to purine nucleotides.

Inositol

Inositol is required for proper formation of cell membranes. It affects nerve transmission and helps in transporting fats within the body. Nuts, beans, wheat and wheat bran, cantaloupe, and oranges are excellent sources of inositol. Most dietary inositol is in the form of phytate.

Clear deficiency of inositol has not been reported, although diabetics have increased excretion and may benefit from inositol supplementation. Toxicity has not been reported, although people with chronic renal failure show elevated levels.

Large amounts of phytate, the common dietary form of inositol, reduce the absorption of calcium, iron, and zinc. However, supplemental inositol does not have this effect.

Lecithin

Lecithin is a phosphorus lipid that is required by every cell in your body. The cell membranes in the body contain phosphorus lipids. These membranes handle the flow of nutrients in and out of the cell. The protective sheaths around your brain are also made of phosphorus lipids as are muscle and nerve cells.

Lecithin is used to protect proper cardiovascular health, improve brain function, increase energy levels, support a healthy liver and aid in the digestion of fats.

Lecithin is an important supplement in any diet because it is widely used by the body everyday. It helps with the absorption of fat soluble vitamins, and also enables fats like cholesterol to be dispersed in water and then removed from your body.

Lecithin is an emulsifier, which helps keep fat in solution in a watery environment.

Lycopene

Lycopene, a carotenoid in the same phytochemical family as beta-carotene, gives tomatoes, tomato products, pink grapefruit, watermelon and guava their red color. Lycopene is a carotenoid that does not have pro-vitamin A activity. Lycopene is much more then a pigment – it is also a powerful antioxidant that helps to defend the body against free radical damage.

The antioxidant properties of lycopene are thought to be primarily responsible for its beneficial properties. However, there is evidence to suggest that other mechanisms such as enhancement of hormonal and immune systems are also at work.

Lycopene distributes to tissues differently than other carotenes and these differences are thought to be physiologically important. Among the carotenoids, lycopene is a major carotene in the blood and other tissues. It is abundant in the skin and prostate gland. There is also evidence that lycopene accumulates in the pancreas, colon, lung, breast, and cervix. Scientists believe that lycopene may get to those tissues where, due to it’s unique chemical structure, it can protect these sensitive tissues from the damaging effect of free radicals.

A widely publicized Harvard study suggested that lycopene plays an important role in the health of the prostate. In this large study, lycopene levels were significantly higher in those with healthy prostates. In 1996, Harvard School of Public Health declared that diets rich in tomato products appeared to support the health of the prostate because of the high lycopene content in tomatoes. In the study, 47,894 male health care professionals were followed for six years. When researchers analyzed the dietary intake of fruits and vegetables by the total study population, they found that diets rich in tomatoes and tomato products were associated with healthy prostates when compared to those with low dietary intake.

Lycopene also appears to help protect against cellular damage and support normal cellular growth. A recent study examined the role of lycopene in protection from ultra-violet (UV) radiation. Exposure to ultra-violet light by human skin has both short and long-term effects. In the short term, tanning or sunburn occur, while in the long term skin wrinkling, aging and other skin problems can occur. Scientific research now indicates that lycopene may be a very important protection against UV light on the skin.

Another benefit of lycopene-rich diets is for heart health. There are several possible mechanisms for this. LDL cholesterol (the "bad" cholesterol ) can become oxidized. This results in an enhanced rate of uptake by cells of the arterial wall leading to cholesterol accumulation in the arteries. As an antioxidant lycopene reduces oxidation and helps keep blood flowing normally.

Lycopene also helps support normal cholesterol levels in the blood by inhibiting one of the key enzymes in the body that leads to the manufacture of cholesterol.

Oyster Shell - Mu Li

Oyster shell is used in traditional Chinese medicine to support normal heart function, blood pressure, and a restful night sleep. Oyster Shell supports normal body temperature at night, upports normal digestive tract function, and has a sedating and calming effect.

Body meridians that benefit from oyster shell are the liver and kidney.

Oyster shell serves to:

Pacify the liver
Soften hardness and release nodules

Oyster shell (Muli) is often used in combination with dragon's bone (Longgu), and white peony root (Baishao) in Chinese herbal remedies.

Oyster Shell is also known as: Mu li, Muli, Concha Ostreae

Methionine

Methionine is an essential amino acid that is not synthesized by the body, and therefore must be obtained from food. It is one of the sulfur-containing amino acids and is important in many body functions. Through its supply of sulfur, it improves the tone and pliability of the skin, conditions the hair and strengthens nails. The sulfur also protect the cells from free radical damage and may slow down the aging process in the cells, and is involved with the production of protein. Methionine is essential for the absorption, transportation and bioavailability of selenium and zinc in the body. It also acts as a lipotropic agent to help prevent excess fat buildup in the liver, and is an excellent chelator of heavy metals, such as lead, cadmium and mercury, binding them and aiding in their excretion from the body.

Methionine is available from natural and synthetic sources.

Reasons to use Methionine

Functions as building block of all proteins
Cysteine and taurine rely on methionine for synthesis in the human body

Octacosanol

Though scientific evidence is lacking, octacosanol is suggested to enhance physical performance, reaction time and overall energy levels.

Octacosanol is suggested to increase oxygen utilization during exercise or workouts.

Omega III

Omega 3 essential fatty acid is an alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) first discovered by Drs. Burr and Burr in 1930. More recently, omega 3 fatty acid attracted major scientific interest when two Danish scientists studied Greenland Eskimo.

They found that even though the Eskimos consumed huge amounts of fat contained in seals and fish they had relatively healthy hearts and circulation.

Omega 3 fatty acid has a long chain of carbon atoms and is poly-unsaturated. It is considered essential because the body can not manufacture it.

What can Omega 3 fatty acids do for you?

Over 2,000 studies have been done on Omega 3 fatty acids and their effect on human and animal health. It is now established that sufficient amounts of Omega 3s can:

Support normal blood pressure
Support normal circulation
Support a healthy heart

These beneficial fats are in the oil naturally found in fish. The omega 3 fats, EPA and DHA, play different but equally vital roles in human health.

How do omega 3 fatty acids work?

EPA - helps make the platelets in blood less sticky which in turn could help support healthy circulation.

DHA - supports a normal heart rhythm. May help regulate cell membrane functions involved in transmitting signals among brain cells.

What are the potential benefits of omega 3?

Heart health

In Chicago's Western Electric Study of over 2,000 men overall heart health was enhanced by those people who were using omega 3. Other recent research suggests that just one serving a week of omega 3 fatty acids from fish could significantly support the health and well-being of the heart.

People taking omega 3 supplements report normal structure and function of joints.

Healthy brain function

Omega 3 fatty acids may be helpful in normal brain development and mood enhancement.

Due to their effect on prostaglandin synthesis omega 3 fatty acids support normal GI structure.

Blood triglyceride support

Omega 3 supplements may be helpful in supporting normal blood triglyceride levels.

Precautions

Anyone taking other blood thinning agents such as coumadin or aspirin should consult a physician or pharmacist if taking fish oil supplements in addition to other drugs.

What amount is right?

Americans on average now get 700-1,400 milligrams of omega 3 weekly. The estimate for therapeutic benefits is 3,500 milligrams weekly. There is no official recommendation for omega 3. The estimate is based on amount needed, for example, to lower triglycerides.

Pearl Powder

Pearls are believed to have an amazing effect on the skin, as Chinese empresses discovered when they used pearl powder on their faces 4,000 years ago. The secret pearl powder formula was passed on from generation to generation by the doctors who treated the women of the emperor's court. Only in the pearl does a unique combination of natural substances and minerals exist which, when applied topically, keep the skin smooth, soft and supple.

Pearl powder prevents pigmentation by slowing down the development of melanin which controls the color pigments of the skin. Pearl powder keeps the skin clear and smooth, leaving it with a sheer, radiant glow. Pearl powder filters the sun's rays, and Chinese experts claim that pearls can correct the damage done to the skin by the sun. Pearl powder contains 20-22 amino acids, which are the building blocks of every living organism. Pearl powder contains a natural moisturizer, proteins which renew the skin cells, vitamin B complex and polysaccharides which strengthen the muscles and the metabolism. Pearl Powder can also be ingested as a source of calcium.

Pycnogenol

Pycnogenol®, a patented natural compound also known as "maritime pine bark", has been shown to have a variety of health promoting properties. It has also been shown to be a very powerful antioxidant and free radical scavenger, even more powerful than either vitamin C or vitamin E. These free radicals can aging effects body. Stress, air pollution, cigarette smoke and chemicals can cause your body to produce even more free radicals. Pycnogenol has the extra benefit of working well with other essential nutrients in a complete heath supplement.

"Another group of plant pigments with remarkable protection against free radical damage are the flavonoids (found in pine bark). Flavonoid molecules are also quite unique in their antioxidant and free radical scavenging activity in that they are active against a wide variety of oxidants and free radicals." -Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine.

Pycnogenol can help support circulation in the hands, feet, and small eye capillaries. It also helps increase skin smoothness, is soothing to mucous membranes, and supports joint flexibility.

Athletes have indicated that pine bark extract shortens their body's recovery time from training, exercise regimen, or competitive events.

Pycnogenol is also known as: Maritime pine bark, Pine Bark extract.

Royal Jelly

Royal jelly is one of the most difficult of all foods to harvest and commands one of the highest prices because of its scarcity, high demand and the recognition of its qualities. Why? Tests show royal jelly to be about 36% protein and contains amino acids, minerals, and B-complex.

Royal jelly is a miracle substance for at least one entity: the Queen bee. This milky white gelatinous substance is secreted in the salivary glands of worker bees for the sole apparent purpose of stimulating the growth and development of queen bees.

What it can do for humans is a far more controversial matter. The claims are exuberant; it is reputed to extend life span and, in general, reinvigorate the body.

Royal jelly is rich in pantothenic acid (part of the vitamin B complex), a substance essential for many metabolic processes and the hub of the body's metabolic process. It is frequently referred to as the "anti-stress" vitamin.

Spirulina

Spirulina is earth's oldest living algae (3.6 billion years) and the first photosynthetic life form, credited with creating our oxygen atmosphere which allowed all life to evolve. Spirulina is the most nutritious, concentrated food known to man, containing antioxidants, phytonutrients, protein, beta-carotene, GLA, B-Vitamins, minerals, chlorophyll, sulfolipids, glyco-lipids, superoxide dismutase, enzymes, RNA, DNA, and supplies many nutrients that are lacking in most people's diets.

Spirulina provides:

Athletes with long lasting energy and vitality
Nourishment for people with digestion, assimilation & elimination
Stress relief
Concentrated essential nutrients to weight watchers
Support for normal memory and mental clarity

The United Nations has said that "Spirulina is the most ideal food for mankind". The U.S. Department of Agriculture in October 1988 published "Spirulina: Food For the Future". Spirulina has been consumed by people for centuries and millions of Americans enjoy it, and is available in health food stores and nutrition centers everywhere.

Spirulina is the richest whole food source of beta-carotene (pro vitamin A, a natural antioxidant that offers protection against free radical damage). Spirulina is 25 times richer than raw carrots in beta-carotene.

Spirulina is also the richest whole food source of Vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 in spirulina provides energy, and is essential for normal growth and neurological function. It is also consumed for energy and internal cleansing.

GLA supports normal blood cholesterol and blood pressure and normal joint function, premenstrual stress and skin health. The rich minerals in spirulina are essential for healthy skin, bones. GLA in mother's milk helps the babies health.

Spirulina is the richest whole food source of protein. The protein in spirulina is twice that of the nearest rival soybeans, and at least 3 times that of beef, fish or eggs.

Spirulina has a high biological value protein with a superior complete amino acid profile containing all 8 essential amino acids and 10 non-essential amino acids with the correct proportions. It has an unmatched digestibility coefficient of 95.1%. The amino acids in spirulina are delivered in an essentially "free form" state for almost instantaneous assimilation.

Other Spirulina Benefits:

· Supports GI structure function
· Supports heart and joint health
· Concentrated source of nutrients

Spirulina is also known as blue green algae

Lactobacillus Sporogenes

Lactobacillus sporogenes helps support normal blood cholesterol, helps convert lactose into galactose and glucose by producing the enzyme lactase. Lactobacillus sporogenes are beneficial since they have a host of health-promoting properties that support overall health and well-being, including support of immune function, production of B-vitamins and helping keep the GI tract functioning normally.

Taurine

Taurine is an amino acid vital to the proper utilization of sodium, magnesium, potassium, and calcium. Taurine has a protective effect upon the human brain and is used to control anxiety, hyperactivity, poor brain function, hypoglycemia, hypertension and seizures.

The levels of taurine found in children's brains is up to four times that in adult brains. Thus supplementation for adults or children with lower levels of taurine can boost brain function. People with Down Syndrome or muscular dystrophy may benefit from taurine supplements.

Excessive losses of taurine thru urine can be caused by many metabolism disorders. The results of this taurine loss can be physical or emotional stress, excessive consumption of alcohol, intestinal problems, cardiac arrhythmias, platelet disorders, and zinc deficiency.

Diabetics may benefit from taurine, and supplementation with cystine and taurine may decrease the need for insulin.