Tag Archives: Active B-Complex by Integrative Therapeutics

Some Interesting Facts on Supplement Use

Some Interesting Facts on Supplement UseJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

Data shows that three-quarters of American adults regularly take dietary supplements as part of their health and wellness regimen, largely due to a shift toward a more personalized and holistic approach to health maintenance. The majority of supplement users report overall confidence in the safety, efficacy and quality of their supplements, as well as a high degree of trust in the supplement industry. As the industry continues to grow and innovate, Professional Supplement Center strives to provide the highest quality supplement brands that support healthier living.

While a healthy diet is of the utmost concern, a recent annual survey of 200 U.S. based registered dietitian nutritionists (RNDs) found that sixty-six percent of participants recommended both diet and supplements for optimal nutrition. Seventy percent also stated they themselves take supplements four or more times per week. Personally used supplements included multivitamins, minerals, vitamins C, D3, B12 and B-complex, fish oil, calcium, magnesium, biotin, zinc, pre and probiotics, glutathione, colloidal silver, elderberry and protein powders.

More than twenty five percent of the surveyed RNDs recommended supplementing the diet for reasons that included inadequate nutrition, caloric needs, wound care, gastrointestinal or renal problems, healthy aging and overall positive impact on health. The supplements most often recommended were multivitamins, vitamin D3, calcium, probiotics, fiber and protein powders. Increasingly, dietitians are also recommending more specialized supplements like prebiotics, CoQ10, turmeric and collagen.

Per a 2018 Consumer Survey on Dietary Supplements, the top reasons for supplement use among those surveyed included:

  • Improve or maintain overall health and wellness
  • Support energy production
  • Meet individual nutritional requirements
  • Support immune, bone, heart, joint, eye and gastrointestinal health and function
  • Avoid cancer and age-related chronic disease
  • Maintain physical and mental health
  • Promote healthy aging
  • Benefit hair, skin and nails

Some interesting facts about supplement users:

  • 78% of those taking supplements are aged 55 and older, 77% are 35-54 years old and 69% are in the 18-34 age group
  • Supplement users are more likely to report very good or excellent health
  • Supplement use is viewed as a very favorable health and lifestyle choice
  • 75% exercise regularly
  • 87% try to eat a balanced diet
  • 74% prioritize sleep
  • 69% maintain a healthy weight
  • 80% visit their doctor for health checkups
  • 75% avoid tobacco products

Some practical advice for supplement use:

Dosing: Similar to medications, consumers should follow healthcare practitioner advice or adhere to the dosage recommendations listed on the label. Supplements address deficiencies or provide nutrients in addition to those supplied in the daily diet. Fat soluble vitamins including A, D and E, are stored in the liver and adipose tissue and should not be taken in excess. Iron is an essential mineral necessary for oxygen transport, as well as brain, immune and muscle function. Unless found to be iron deficient, adult men and menopausal women do not normally need to supplement with additional iron.

Take as directed: Unless otherwise advised by a healthcare practitioner supplements should be taken according to label directions. Directions are intended to provide information, such as when a supplement should be taken for best absorption. For instance, some supplements should be taken with food, others on an empty stomach. To aid absorption, fat soluble vitamins should be taken with food that contains dietary fat.

Follow a healthy diet. There are meal replacement and protein powders meant to enhance dietary intake. Many supplements are not intended to substitute for food but are meant to provide essential nutrients and fill in nutritional gaps, as well as address deficiencies, dietary restrictions or specific health concerns.

Proper storage: The FDA does not require that supplements have expiration dates listed on packaging. Manufacturers opt to include expiration dates to ensure maximum potency and verify that efficacy is maintained through the expiration date when correctly stored. Some supplements do require refrigeration. All shelf stable vitamins should be stored in a cool dark cabinet, away from heat and high humidity.

Read labels: Active ingredients are the substances that produce intended effects. Herbal products contain plant compounds. Nutritional supplements contain vitamins, minerals or essential nutrients. Supplements containing whole plant ingredients are often standardized to contain specific amounts of active compounds in each serving.

Quality manufacturers avoid products that may cause allergic reactions or that some people may want to avoid in their diet. These could include soy, gluten, wheat, sugar, dairy, nuts, shellfish, hydrogenated oils, animal products, GMO’s and artificial coloring, flavoring and preservatives.

Professional Supplement Center offers these and other high quality supplements in support of overall health and wellness:

Pro Multi Daily...Pro Multi Daily without Copper & Iron by Professional Supplement Center®: This hypoallergenic formulation provides activated vitamins and chelated minerals in support of optimal utilization, foundational wellness and phase I detoxification. Free of wheat, gluten, yeast, soy, dairy, fish, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, GMO’s and artificial colors, sweeteners and preservatives.

Vitamin D ComplexVitamin D Complex by Designs for Health®: Each serving of this balanced complex provides 2,000 IU of bioavailable vitamin D3, along with efficacious amounts of synergistic fat soluble vitamins A, E, K1 and K2 in support of overall healthy function. Gluten free, Non-GMO formulation.

MinProMinPro by Professional Supplement Center®: This balanced multi-mineral supplement provides highly absorbable, fully reacted Albion® patented mineral amino acid chelates, malates and mineral complexes in support of mineral repletion, sports nutrition and daily mineral intake.  Free of wheat, gluten, yeast, soy, dairy, fish, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, GMO’s and artificial colors, sweeteners and preservatives.

Active B-ComplexActive B Complex by Integrative Therapeutics®: This active B complex provides a full complement of bioavailable B vitamins necessary for multiple biochemical processes and vital bodily functions. Free of sugar, salt, yeast, wheat, gluten, soy, dairy, animal products and artificial colors, flavors and preservatives. Vegetarian formulation.

Prebiotic Superfoods...Prebiotic Superfoods Drink Mix Green Apple by Enzymedica®: This prebiotic supplement provides 50 blended fruit, vegetable and botanical powders to nourish and support the growth  and health of beneficial microflora in the gastrointestinal system. Organic fermented barley grass aids digestion, while acacia gum fiber supports optimal elimination. Free of gluten, dairy, casein, soy, eggs and artificial colors and flavors. Non-GMO formulation.

If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medications or have a health condition, always check in with your doctor before taking supplements. Some supplements can interact with prescription medications, raising or lowering their intended effects.

References:
2nd Annual Survey of Registered Dietitian Reveals Two-thirds of Dietitians Recommend Food and Supplements to their Clients and the Majority Take Supplements Daily.  https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/2nd-annual-survey-of-registered-dietitian-reveals-two-thirds-of-dietitians-recommend-food-and-supplements-to-their-clients-and-the-majority-take-supplements-daily-300945310.html
Tips for Taking Dietary Supplements. https://www.knowyourotcs.org/tips-for-taking-dietary-supplements/
New Data Reaffirm Trust and Confidence in Industry, Reveal Modern Trends and Habits of American Consumers. https://www.crnusa.org/CRNConsumerSurvey
Is It Safe to Take Expired Vitamins? https://www.verywellfit.com/is-it-safe-to-take-expired-vitamins-4165676

 

Brain Nutrients – Food for Thought

FoodForThoughtJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

While we primarily conceive of nutrition in terms of energy production and support for building and repair processes, throughout history, many cultures have traditionally used plant foods and spices as a means for prevention and protection against disease. In modern times, the ability of dietary factors to influence brain health are only now beginning to be recognized. Over the last decade, research has provided evidence that dietary components may influence mechanisms and molecular systems that maintain mental function, more specifically synaptic plasticity. Synapses or junctions, where virtually all important brain activity emerges, effectively control neuronal communication. Plasticity is the ability of the brain to adapt to new information; synaptic plasticity is the brain’s ability to strengthen or weaken the synaptic function as a result of learning. For example, repeating song lyrics strengthens the related connections in the brain that make it possible to easily recall the words.

A sharp mind and memory formation depend on the vitality of the brain’s network of interconnecting neurons. Research has established that synaptic activity, including synapse-specific modifications of synaptic strength, plays a vital role in learning and memory. The ability to learn and remember, as well as other mental and emotional processes, can be influenced by  factors such as stress, lack of stimulation or neurotoxins that may cause synapse dysfunction. A balanced diet, adequate amounts of physical activity, proper sleep, and healthy environmental interaction appear to have the potential to alter brain heath and mental function. Nutrients that influence cognition act on the necessary cellular processes for the maintenance of brain health. Encouraging results of clinical and preclinical studies raise the possibility that dietary interventions may be a viable strategy for enhancing cognitive abilities, protecting the brain from damage, promoting repair, and counteracting the effects of aging.

Adults of all ages looking to preserve brain heath and function throughout their lifespan, should consider following a healthy lifestyle to help protect and strengthen the synapses that keep minds active and alert. Lifestyle tips for healthy brain function include stress reduction and relaxation techniques, brain stimulation though demanding intellectual tasks, cardiovascular exercise to oxygenate the brain, adequate sleep, not smoking, taking alcohol in moderation and eating a nutritious diet that includes brain supportive nutrients. Per the National Institutes of Health (NIH), select nutrients have the capacity to affect neural pathways associated with synaptic plasticity that positively affects cognitive function. These dietary components have been identified as having effects on membrane fluidity, the regulation of neurotransmitter pathways, synaptic transmission and signal-transduction pathways.

DHA Omega-3 essential fatty acids, specifically DHA, are normal constituents of cell membranes and are essential for normal brain function. Dietary consumption of omega-3 fatty acids is one of the best-studied correlations between food and brain evolution. As the human body is not efficient at synthesizing DHA, we are largely dependent on dietary sources, such as oily fish, shellfish and algae. Dietary deficiency of omega-3 fatty acids has been associated with increased risk of mental health disorders, including dementia and depression. DHA may enhance cognitive abilities by facilitating synaptic plasticity, or through its positive effects on metabolism, glucose utilization, and mitochondrial function.

Turmeric/Curcumin – Studies suggest that curcumin has bioactive antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuro-protective effects. Population studies have shown that those who regularly consume curcuminoids as part of their traditional cuisine, such as in India and Asia, scored significantly better on cognitive function tests. Chronic low-grade inflammation plays a major role in many degenerative conditions. Curcumin’s strong anti-inflammatory properties may inhibit inflammation at the molecular level to help prevent or fight chronic inflammation. Curcumin may also boost levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which supports synaptic plasticity and cognitive function, as well as the survival of existing neurons and the differentiation of new neurons.

Flavonoids – Flavonoids, phytochemicals found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, have been identified as promising bioactive compounds capable of influencing certain aspects of brain function, including cerebrovascular blood flow, and synaptic plasticity and strengthening. Dietary flavonoids are believed to have the potential to protect against neurotoxin damage, suppress neuroinflammation, and promote memory, learning and cognitive function.

B vitamins – Per the NIH, B complex vitamins are absolutely essential for every aspect of brain function. These synergistic micronutrients work at a cellular level to support energy production, healthy mood and cognitive performance, as well as DNA/RNA synthesis and repair, and the synthesis of numerous neurochemicals and signaling molecules.

CoQ10/Ubiquinol – Found in virtually all cell membranes, CoQ10 (ubiquinone) is a powerful antioxidant and a vital participant in oxygen utilization and cellular energy production. By aiding energy production and protecting organ cells from oxidative stress and free radical damage, CoQ10 supports the overall health of all bodily cells, organs and tissues. Animal studies have shown that oral administration of CoQ10 can exert neuroprotective effects that may prove useful in the future treatment of neurodegenerative disease.

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other high quality supplements in support of brain and overall health:

ProDHA 1000 mg...ProDHA 1000 mg Strawberry by Nordic Naturals®: This high potency formula offers research- backed benefits for brain, eye, and nervous system health, as well as emotional wellbeing. Sourced from purified deep sea fish oil. Natural strawberry flavor. Naturally preserved with rosemary extract and d-alpha tocopherol. Gluten free, no artificial ingredients, Non-GMO verified.

Ubiquinol-QH 100 mgUbiquinol-QH 100 mg by Pure Encapsulations®: This product provides Kaneka QH™, a readily absorbable, active antioxidant form of CoQ10, in support of cellular energy production, cardiovascular health and free radical protection. Gluten free, hypoallergenic, Non-GMO formulation.

Curcumin 500 with...Curcumin 500 with Bioperine by Pure Encapsulations®: This product supplies 500 mg of turmeric standardized to contain 95% curcuminoids in support of a healthy inflammatory response, cellular health, and healthy liver, colon and musculoskeletal function. Bioperine® is added for enhanced bioavailability and absorption. Gluten free, hypoallergenic, Non-GMO vegan formulation.

FlavonALLFlavonAll by Douglas Laboratories®: This broad-spectrum flavonoid-based supplement delivers eight of the most concentrated and well-researched standardized plant extracts highly regarded for their beneficial antioxidant properties. Ingredients include Pycnogenol®, as well as grape seed, bilberry, and milk thistle extracts. Soy free, vegan formulation.

Active B-ComplexActive B-Complex by Integrative Therapeutics®: This product provides the full complement of bioavailable B vitamins in support of numerous biochemical processes and overall healthy function. Gluten, wheat, dairy, soy and artificial ingredient free, vegetarian formulation.

References:
Brain foods: the effects of nutrients on brain function. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2805706/
Boost your memory by eating right. https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/boost-your-memory-by-eating-right
Nutrients for a Sharp Memory. http://www.todaysdietitian.com/newarchives/1217p24.shtml
4 Types of Foods to Help Boost Your Memory. https://www.eatright.org/health/wellness/healthy-aging/memory-boosting-foods
Do Memory Problems Always Mean Alzheimer’s Disease? https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/do-memory-problems-always-mean-alzheimers-disease
The synaptic plasticity and memory hypothesis: encoding, storage and persistence. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3843897/
10 Proven Health Benefits of Turmeric and Curcumin. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-10-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-turmeric
Flavonoids and brain health: multiple effects underpinned by common mechanisms. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2775888/
Coenzyme Q10 administration increases brain mitochondrial concentrations and exerts neuroprotective effects. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC21173/

 

All About Vitamin B6

B6_VitaminJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

One of eight in the family of water-soluble B-complex vitamins, vitamin B6 is an essential nutrient not synthesized or stored by the body. As a necessary coenzyme for numerous bodily functions, vitamin B6 must be obtained through a healthy diet or supplementation, as unused water-soluble vitamins are excreted daily through urination. There are several forms of this very versatile vitamin, some of which require conversion by the liver into a bioavailable form. Pyridoxal 5’ phosphate (PLP or P5P), a metabolically active, readily absorbable form that doesn’t require conversion, allows the full health benefits of vitamin B6 to be quickly and easily utilized by the body.

All B-complex vitamins aid in protein and fat metabolism, as well as the conversion of carbohydrates into glucose utilized for energy production. Found largely in protein-rich foods, whole grains and some vegetables and nuts, vitamin B6 status can impact both physical and mental health. Because B6 is involved in numerous enzymatic reactions, adequate levels are key for promoting and maintaining overall wellness, as well as the cognitive health of aging brains. Studies have found that the combination of vitamins B6, B12 and folate may play a role in slowing cognitive decline and age-related memory loss, suggesting that these vitamins may also decrease the risk of depression, stroke and Alzheimer’s disease.

Potential benefits of vitamin B6 supplementation include:

Brain health – Necessary for proper brain development in children and for healthy brain function in people of all ages, poor vitamin B6 status may play a role in cognitive decline, as studies show associations between higher serum vitamin B6 concentrations and better memory test scores. Per the National Institutes of Health (NIH), B vitamins, particularly B6, B12 and folate are widely believed to be protective against Alzheimer’s disease and age-related loss of cognitive function.

Heavy metal chelation – Heavy metal induced toxicity resulting from chronic exposure may be affecting up to 25% of Americans. Found in the air, water, soil and our food supply, heavy metals can accumulate in the body. Even at minute levels, toxic metals can have detrimental effects on the integrity of the cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, neurological, musculoskeletal, and immune systems. Vitamin B6 as PLP has been shown to inhibit cellular lead toxicity by mobilizing lead deposits in tissues and enhancing excretion of toxic metals through urination.

Glycation – Glycation occurs when a sugar molecule, such as glucose or fructose, bonds to a protein or lipid molecule without the controlling action of an enzyme. This results in the formation of non-functioning advanced glycation end products or AGE’s. While AGE’s are a normal consequence of aging, they are far from desirable, as glycation is associated with diabetes related conditions, cataract development, atherosclerosis, kidney failure, neurological impairment, and visible signs of skin aging. PLP has been described as the most potent natural substance for inhibiting AGE formation, helping to combat premature aging and the underlying loss of structure and function associated with accelerated aging.

Homocysteine – Homocysteine is a byproduct created during protein metabolism. High levels of homocysteine are implicated in increased risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease, and are viewed as a potential predictor of Alzheimer’s disease. Randomized controlled trials have shown that vitamin B6 can effectively reduce homocysteine levels associated with heart disease development and age-related cognitive decline.

Neurotransmitter production –  B vitamins play a central role in the maintenance of nervous system health and function. Vitamin B6 is a necessary cofactor in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, serotonin, GABA, melatonin and noradrenaline. These chemical messengers affect every bodily cell, tissue and organ system and regulate mood, emotions, sleep, cognition, energy, appetite, pleasure, fear, and the stress response.

Chronic stress, aging, certain medications, obesity, pregnancy, excessive alcohol consumption, and medical conditions, such as poor kidney function, impaired liver function, malabsorption syndromes, and autoimmune diseases can interfere with or block intestinal absorption of vitamin B6.  While it’s rare for healthy individuals to have a significant deficiency of B6, studies indicate that many individuals may be mildly deficient in all B vitamins, especially children and seniors. Marginal deficiencies in B vitamins can predispose individuals to a number of negative health consequences, including less than optimal brain function. Symptoms of deficiency can include muscle weakness, anemia, nervousness, depression, weakened immune function, difficulty concentrating, and short-term memory loss.

Professional Supplement Center carries many high quality products to ensure optimal intake of B-Complex vitamins in support of overall wellness:

P-5-P 50 mgP-5-P 50 mg by Designs for Health®: Each capsule supplies 50 mg of the activated form of vitamin B6 in support of a wide range of biological actions. Wheat, yeast, soy, gluten, egg, dairy, sugar, and artificial ingredient free.

 

P5P50 (activated B6)P5P 50 (activated B6) by Pure Encapsulations®: Each vegetable capsule supplies 50 mg of active bioavailable vitamin B6 to provide beneficial nutritional support for a wide range of physiological functions. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO, hypoallergenic, vegetarian formulation.

 

P-5-P Pyridoxal-5...P-5-P Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate by Klaire Labs®: Particularly well suited for individuals with amino acid imbalances or nutritional deficiencies, this already converted and easy-to-assimilate form of vitamin B6 metabolite provides coenzyme support for numerous biological functions.  Gluten, soy, wheat, dairy, preservative and artificial ingredient free, Kosher-certified, hypoallergenic formulation.

 

Pyridoxal 5'...Pyridoxal 5’ Phosphate by Metabolic Maintenance: This two-ingredient supplement provides 50 mg of vitamin B6 as P5P and 250 mg of vitamin C in support of optimal bodily function. Excipient free, vegan formulation.

 

Active B-ComplexActive B-Complex by Integrative Therapeutics®: This active B-Complex provides a full complement of bioavailable B vitamins necessary for numerous biochemical processes. Gluten, soy, wheat, sugar, yeast, dairy, and preservative free, vegetarian, NSF-Certified formulation.

 

PureGenomics® B...PureGenomics® B-complex by Pure Encapsulations®: This gluten free, Non-GMO, hypoallergenic, vegan formulation provides highly active broad-spectrum B vitamin support to address the nutrient requirements of methylation processes, as well as cellular, cardiovascular, neurological, and psychological health.

References:

What are the Benefits of Vitamin B6 to the Brain? http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/benefits-vitamin-b6-brain-4217.html

Neurotransmitters. https://www.integrativepsychiatry.net/neurotransmitter.html

B Vitamins and the Brain: Mechanisms, Dose and Efficacy—A Review. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4772032/

Why vitamin B is so important for a healthy nervous system. https://www.health24.com/Lifestyle/Healthy-Nerves/The-nervous-system-Other-B-vitamins-20120721

Phyllis A. Balch, CNC. Prescription for Nutritional Healing. Vitamin B6. Penguin Group 2010.