ALPHA LIPOIC ACID (ALA) Also called thioctic acid. ALA helps to reduce blood sugar levels and helps insulin to function more efficiently.
In addition, ALA prevents oxidation of LDL cholesterol, protein and DNA. It can encourage other antioxidants (e.g. vitamin C and E) to work better.
It boosts the body's production of glutathione, another powerful and beneficial antioxidant. ALA has also been used in the prevention and treatment of cancer and heavy metal toxicity.
Not recommended for children, pregnant or nursing women.
Food sources - beef, potatoes, spinach.
ASTAXANTHIN
Studies found that this fat-soluble carotenoid has the ability to fight cancer, AMD (age-related macular degeneration; a degenerative condition occurring at the back of the eye known as the macula resulting in blindness) and enhance immunity.
Food sources - pink seafood, red yeast Phaffia rhodozyma. Also available in pill forms.
BETA CAROTENE
It is a carotenoid, the most prevalent in naturally occuring pigments in nature.
In a study published in the Annals of Metabolism and Nutrition, taking natural beta carotene lowered LDL cholesterol levels for people with Type II diabetes.
COPPER (Chemical symbol - Cu)
This mineral supports the formation of collagen and connective tissue. Essential for the production of the pigment, melanin. Promotes healthy nervous and immune systems.
High levels of copper in relation to low levels of zinc can lead to copper toxicity which can cause fatigue, mental disorders, anxiety, pre menstrual syndrome and liver problems.
COENZYME Q10 (CoQ10)
Also known as ubiquinone. This lipid is present in almost every plant, animal and human cell (inner membranes of mitochondria). CoQ10 can be manufactured by the body but when there is a lack of proper nutrition or flaws in it's synthesis, deficiency does occur.
Also, cholesterol-lowering drugs such as lovastatin, pravastatin and simvastain can inhibit the production process.
CoQ10 is crucial in the production of energy; said to increase celluar energy production; protects against heart disease; prevents LDL cholesterol oxidation.
Since it can promote blood thinning, consult your physician before combining with blood thinners like Coumadin.
FLAVONOID Also known as bioflavonoids. A color pigment found in fruits, vegetables, grains, flowers and barks. There are over 4000 flavonoids known, the common ones being grape seed extract, Pycnogenol, citrus flavonoids, soy isoflavones, quercetin, catechin and rutin.
This anti-inflammatory plant antioxidant can help protect against heart disease, cancer and is useful in treating and preventing a wide range of health problems.
GLUTATHIONE
Glutathione is indispensible in most cells. It helps the liver to break down toxic chemicals, whether they were absorbed from the environment or produced by the body. It enhances function of the immune system and strengthens cell membrane. Low blood levels of glutathione are associated with problems such as heart disease and cancer.
Food sources - asparagus, avocado.
HOP
Experiments carried out by researchers at the Orgeon State University suggest that the flavonoids found in hops can fight cancer. Hops are used to flavor and preserve beer. However it is not advisable to rush to drink beyond moderation.
LUTEIN
One of the 2 carotenoids found in the eye's retina, lutein has been found to slow the progression of AMD (age-related macular degeneration) and protect against cataracts. See also zeaxanthin.
N-ACETYLCYSTEINE (NAC)
Recognized for it's role in increasing levels of glutathione (a natural antioxidant the body makes), NAC, a form of amino acid cysteine also boosts immunity and combats oxidative damage.
It may also be effective against certain types of cancer.
POLYPHENOL (tannins)
Protects cells against damage and lowers cholesterol levels. Prevents platelet cells in the blood from sticking together which reduces the risk of an heart attack.
Food sources - green tea, grapes, persimmon.
POLYPHENOL (epigallocatechin, EGCG)
Laboratory experiments found this compound suppressing tumor growth, protecting cells against damage and the oxidation of LDL by free radicals.
A study reported in the Journal of Cellular Biochemistry (2001: Vol 82: 397-398) noticed a reduction in the size and malignancy of breast tumors
in rats who drank water containing green tea as compared to rats who drank only water.
Read the extract of this study.
This polyphenol can also lower cholesterol levels and reduce risk of stroke.
Food source - green tea.
PYCNOGENOL
Also known as OPCs (Oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes). Obtained from the bark of French maritime pine trees, this antioxidant protects cells from free radical activity, helps strengthen capillaries and possesses anti-inflammatory properties.
A clinical study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found pycnogenol to improve breathing ability in asthma patients.
Source - pill forms.
Reference : "Pycnogenol in the Management of Asthma" Hosseini S, et al. Journal of Medicinal Food (2001) 4:201-209
QUERCETIN
This flavonoid protects the LDL cholesterol from oxidative damage (a damage that will lead to the LDL adhering to arteries and cause coronary heart disease). It is also used to reduce allergic reactions (e.g. sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose) and treat hay fever.
Vitamin C is said to enhance the effectiveness of quercetin supplements.
See flavonoid.
Food sources - apples, berries, buckwheat, dill, eucalyptus, ginkgo biloba leaf extracts, licorice root, grapes, pears, red wine, red onions.
SELENIUM (Chemical symbol - Se)
This mineral forms part of the enzyme glutathione peroxidase that disposes free radicals. Se and vitamin E work well together to enhance each other's functions. Low levels of Se has been linked to arthritis, cancer, heart disease, cataract and birth defects.
It could be effective against lupus.
Long term use of more than 400 mcg can be toxic which can cause bad breath, fatigue, nail problems and hair loss.
Food sources - Brazil nuts, buckwheat, organ meats, seafood. The amount of Se found in foods like asparagus, garlic and mushrooms is dependent on the amount of Se present in the soil in which they are grown.
SILYMARIN (Silybum marianum)
The antioxidant extracted from milk thistle, silymarin exerts beneficial effects on the liver; helps repair damaged cells and promotes cell regeneration. It has a protective effect against toxins from drugs and alcohol.
Source - pills, extracts.
SPIRULINA
A microscopic single cell blue-green alga that is packed with all the essential amino acids required to make complete proteins. It also contains essential fatty acids (EFAs) like gamma linolenic acid (GLA) and linoleic acid. Rich in beta carotene too. Some friendly actions include removing toxins from the body and strengthening the immune system.
Spirulina can affect blood sugar levels while on diabetic medication.
Source - pills, flakes (sprinkle over salads), powder (can be used in soups or drinks).
URSOLIC ACID
According to a study published in Cancer Letters (Jun 24, 1996), researchers at the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois found 2 chemicals present in rosemary; ursolic acid and carnosol, possess anti-tumor properties. The action of ursolic acid has worked well at easing inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Sources - noni, rosemary (rosemary is not recommended for pregnant and nursing women).
VITAMIN C
This is a well researched water-soluble vitamin and its list of health credentials include eliminating damaging free radicals, prevents the formation of cancer-causing culprits - nitrosomines, boosts immunity, fight off infections, helps the body remove harmful toxins.
VITAMIN E
Like vitamin C, it is a powerful defender of the body's cells against damages caused by free radicals on areas like the eye, skin and heart. It can also inhibit the formation of nitrosomines which are believed to be cancer-causing agents.
ZEAXANTHIN
One of the 2 carotenoids found in the eye's retina (the other being lutein). It protects against cataracts and AMD (age-related macular degeneration), a leading cause of blindness in people above 50.
Food sources - kale, spinach, broccoli.
ZINC (Chemical symbol - Zn)
It is a component of more than 300 enzymes required to maintain vision, repair wounds, promote cell growth, synthesize protein, as well as keep hair, nails, skin and joints healthy.
Zn improves the immune system, shields against harmful free radicals, reduces cold symptoms and plays a key role in the body's metabolism. This trace metal also helps to produce the male hormone, testosterone. A deficiency can cause night blindness and the lost of smell and taste.
Daily dosage should be less than 75 mg unless when fallen sick.
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