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Nutrients for Healthy Brain Function

Posted on December 14, 2017 by Professional Supplement Center | Comments Off

Along with concern over the ability to continue living independently, many seniors are apprehensive about maintaining mental acuity. Most individuals are aware that some degree of forgetfulness and cognitive decline is considered normal with aging. However, cognitive decline greater than what is expected for one’s age and educational level is indeed cause for apprehension, because with age we become increasingly susceptible to chronic and debilitating brain diseases. Although the normal process of brain atrophy occurs even in cognitively healthy persons, the atrophy occurs more rapidly in persons who have cognitive decline that progresses to Alzheimer’s disease.

Growing research has demonstrated the beneficial impact of nutrition as a preventive strategy for reduced risk of cognitive decline and for maintenance of executive function. Executive function is defined as a set of mental skills that enables one to get things done, manage time, pay attention, switch focus, plan, organize, and multitask. Recognizing and reducing the factors that contribute to brain atrophy may be one strategy to slow the process of neurodegeneration. In older adults, research has underscored the potential impact of nutritional factors and individual micronutrients on the brain and cognitive function. Subclinical deficiencies commonly seen in the general population, and seniors in particular, include the B vitamins, folate, B12 and B6.

Science shows that elevated blood levels of homocysteine is one factor that contributes to brain atrophy, as well as to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Homocysteine is a chemical byproduct of normal protein metabolism found to some degree in everyone’s bloodstream. When homocysteine levels are abnormally high, there’s an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, hardening of the arteries, isolated systolic hypertension, blood clots, and dementia, factors which may ultimately lead to heart attacks, strokes and Alzheimer’s disease. High homocysteine levels may be attributed to genetics, certain medications, kidney disease, and thyroid hormone insufficiency, as well as B vitamin and folate deficiencies.

While it remains unclear whether high homocysteine levels are the cause or the effect of disease, elevated levels are recognized as being associated with brain atrophy, dementia, depression, and Alzheimer’s. Folic acid, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12 are all involved in the break down and conversion of homocysteine into methionine, a protein building block. Increasing intake of these vitamins may lower blood levels of homocysteine. Folate can be found green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, most beans and fortified foods. Vitamin B12 is found naturally in animal products, seafood, fortified cereals and enriched soy or rice milks. Good sources of B6 include beans, poultry, dark leafy greens and some fruits. A daily multivitamin can help ensure adequate intake of these important vitamins.

There is growing support for the premise that optimal B vitamin status may prevent, slow or even reverse deterioration in memory and other mental capacities important to quality of life in older individuals. Folate, B6 and B12 may function to preserve and protect the integrity of the central nervous system through its role in the prevention of vascular disease. In addition to the B vitamins, vitamins C and D are key to optimal brain health and function. Vitamin C is essential to the production of neurotransmitters that affect the ability to focus, concentrate, and remember. They also control mood, sleep, cravings, addictions, and more.

As a cofactor necessary for serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine production, vitamin C is essential for a positive mood. A potent antioxidant, vitamin C helps to protect the brain from oxidative stress and free radical damage. A meta-analysis of studies found that a diet rich in vitamins C and E was linked to a 20-25% decrease in Alzheimer’s risk. Vitamin C acts as a powerful detoxifier that helps to remove heavy metal accumulation from the brain. By helping to build collagen that keeps arteries flexible, vitamin C improves blood flow, delivering increased oxygen and nutrients to properly nourish the brain. Fruits and vegetables high in vitamin C include citrus fruits, berries and watermelon, tomatoes, bell peppers and cruciferous vegetables, especially when eaten raw.

Vitamin D micronutrient deficiency has reached epic proportions, affecting an estimated 77% of Americans. Pre-hormone vitamin D is necessary for normal brain development in utero, as well as throughout childhood. Vitamin D receptors are wide spread in brain tissue, and biologically active Vitamin D has been shown to be neuroprotective, aiding the clearance of amyloid plaques seen in Alzheimer’s. Vitamin D activates and deactivates enzymes in the brain and cerebrospinal fluid involved in neurotransmitter synthesis and nerve growth. Studies suggest that vitamin D protects neurons and reduces damaging inflammation.

A study led by neuroscientist David Llewellyn of the University of Cambridge assessed the correlation between vitamin D levels and cognitive function in 1,700 men and women aged 65 and older. Those deficient in vitamin D exhibited slower information-processing speed, and were up to four times more likely to be cognitively impaired as compared with people with optimum vitamin D levels. Research shows it may be difficult to get sufficient vitamin D from dietary sources alone. Those who are not getting 15-30 minutes of sunshine on their torso a minimum of three times a week, would be well advised to supplement with vitamin D for brain health and overall wellness.

Omega-3 essential fatty acids are vital for the maintenance of normal brain development and function throughout life. Low levels of omega-3’s may accelerate brain aging and contribute to deficits in brain function. Fish oil is found to be effective in reducing inflammation in the blood and tissues. Promising studies suggest that fish oil may help relieve mental fatigue and stress and may help women to reduce the risk of developing depression. Research suggests that those with mild cognitive impairment or mild declines in brain function may benefit the most from fish oil supplementation. The Alzheimer’s Association recommends omega-3 fatty acids as a possible defense against Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia.

Professional Supplement Center carries many high quality products to support brain and overall health:

Pro Methyl Balance by Professional Supplement Center®: On SALE! Pro Methyl Balance is formulated to provide high levels of highly active and bioavailable forms of folate and vitamin B12 in support of homocysteine management, neurological function, and a healthy inflammatory response. Gluten free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

Homocysteine Factors by Pure Encapsulations®: This hypoallergenic formula provides the highly bioavailable folate Metafolin®, activated vitamin B6, anhydrous betaine, and vitamin B12 as methylcobalamin, in support of healthy homocysteine metabolism. Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

B Complex with Metafolin® by Douglas Laboratories®: This comprehensive B vitamin supplement provides highly bioavailable B vitamins plus intrinsic factor, a nutrient necessary for optimal B12 absorption. Gluten, soy, dairy, yeast and artificial ingredient free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

Vitamin D3 5,000 IU by Professional Supplement Center®: On SALE! This product supplies highly bioavailable vitamin D3 in support of proper nervous system function, healthy cardiovascular function and a normal immune response. Gluten free, Non-GMO formulation.

ProDHA™ 1000 mg by Nordic Naturals®: On SALE! This high potency formula provides an essential nutrient for brain health, healthy mood, cognitive function, and the structural integrity of the central nervous system. Third party tested for heavy metals and toxins. Gluten, dairy and artificial ingredient free, Non-GMO formulation.

Buffered Vitamin C by Integrative Therapeutics®: One serving supplies one gram of vitamin C buffered with magnesium and calcium in support of healthy skin, collagen production, and connective tissue and bone health. Gluten, wheat, dairy, soy, yeast, and artificial ingredient free, vegetarian formulation.

Vitamin E with Mixed Tocopherols by Pure Encapsulations®: This powerful antioxidant supplement plays a beneficial role in cellular respiration, mitochondrial function, blood vessel health and protein metabolism. Artificial ingredient free, Non-GMO formulation.

References:
B vitamins, cognition and aging: a review. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11682586
Bruno, Gene, MS, MHS, Rh. B Vitamins and Cognition, Vitamin Retailer, Dec. 2017.
Nutrition for the ageing brain: Towards evidence for an optimal diet. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1568163716301027
Three of the B Vitamins: Folate, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/vitamin-b/
Homocysteine and MTHFR Mutations. Relation to Thrombosis and Coronary Artery Disease. http://circ.ahajournals.org/content/111/19/e289
Does Vitamin D Improve Brain Function? https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/does-d-make-a-difference/
Vitamin D and cognitive function. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22536767

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Tagged 000 IU by Professional Supplement Center, B Vitamins, B-Complex with Metafolin by Douglas Laboratories, Buffered Vitamin C by Integrative Therapeutics, cognition and aging: a review. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11682586 Bruno, Dec. 2017. Nutrition for the ageing brain: Towards evidence for an optimal diet. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1568163716301027 Three of the B Vitamins: Folate, Gene, Homocysteine Factors by Pure Encapsulations, MHS, MS, Nutrients for Healthy Brain Function, Pro Methyl Balance by Professional Supplement Center, ProDHA™ 1000 mg by Nordic Naturals, Rh. B Vitamins and Cognition, Vitamin D3 5, Vitamin E with Mixed Tocopherols by Pure Encapsulations, Vitamin Retailer

Got Fatigue?

Posted on August 9, 2017 by Professional Supplement Center | Comments Off

Often linked to lifestyle, stress, modern technology, and medical conditions, tiredness is one the most common health problems we face today. Normal sleepiness occurs at regular intervals following a circadian rhythm that signals the onset of sleep. Abnormal sleepiness, associated with the inability to stay awake at inappropriate times, is a complex physical, physiological or psychological issue that can be exacerbated by disrupted sleep, illness, and current societal pressures. While tiredness is often used to describe both sleepiness and fatigue, they are two separate and distinct conditions, and your health depends on recognizing the difference.

Fatigue is defined as a sustained and overwhelming sense of exhaustion, and decreased capacity to function at the usual level. Although chronic fatigue is not normally accompanied by excessive daytime sleepiness, fatigue needs to be taken seriously, as it’s an indication that your body is unable to keep up. While exercise is recommended to help those who are tired, it can exacerbate chronic fatigue, which requires rest, in addition to sleep.

Certain medications and medical conditions, including anemia, diabetes, obesity, adrenal fatigue, thyroid dysfunction, and more, can all deplete energy stores. Anxiety, depression, and insomnia are certainly aggravating factors. Add in lifestyle behaviors such as too much alcohol and caffeine consumption; as well as excessive or non-existent exercise, insufficient relaxation time, poor quality sleep, and our 24/7 seemingly sleepless world; and we have a recipe, not only for weariness, but for reduced quality of life.

Good nutrition is often overlooked as a defining factor for poor energy stores. Caffeine and energy drinks may provide a short-term energy boost. However, it’s proper nutrition and a balanced diet that supplies the daily energy reserves to support bodily function, physical, emotional, and psychological health, and overall wellbeing.

Eating strategies to help maximize energy levels:

Eating smaller, more frequent meals helps to fuel a healthy metabolism and prevent unwise snacking. As the brain has limited energy reserves, providing a steady supply of healthy nutrients supports focus and cognitive function.

In addition to smaller meals, healthy snacks help bridge the gap until the next meal. A handful of nuts, unflavored yogurt, or a piece of fruit may be all you need to ward off sluggishness.

Caffeine is a useful stimulant that can increase alertness. However, to take advantage of its energizing effects caffeine should be used wisely. Too much caffeine can result in insomnia, especially for the caffeine-sensitive or when consumed late in the day or evening.

Hydrating with water or unsweetened tea is often all it takes to keep your energy levels constant. One of the first signs of dehydration is fatigue, so drink up throughout the day and especially before, during and after exercise.

The amount of alcohol consumed determines the effects. One glass of wine or beer has a stimulant effect, but when more is consumed it acts as a depressant, slowing vital functions. These sedative effects that may help one fall asleep faster. However, alcohol disrupts sleep homeostasis and can impair sleep function, resulting in insomnia.

Ease up on sugar consumption. Sugar will cause blood sugar to spike and then crash, causing energy levels to plummet. Sweet cravings signal low blood sugar. An apple with almond butter or a handful of almonds may be all that’s needed to stabilize blood sugar levels.

Five nutrients your body needs to sustain daily energy levels:

B vitamins: Your body needs carbohydrates, fats, and proteins from foods for energy. Often referred to as energy nutrients, all B-complex vitamins aid the natural processes your body uses to convert dietary carbohydrates and fats into fuel or glucose. Your body needs B vitamins to convert dietary energy into ATP, which transports chemical energy within the cells for metabolism.

Magnesium: Magnesium plays a critical role in cellular energy metabolism. In fact, all enzymes that utilize or synthesize ATP require magnesium. ATP, which provides the energy for most metabolic processes, exists primarily as a complex with magnesium.

Iron: Fatigue is the first symptom of iron deficiency, which the World Health Organization (WHO) defines as the number one nutritional disorder worldwide. Although low levels of iron can affect men and women of all ages, it often occurs in premenopausal women. Iron supplementation should only be taken under the advisement of a healthcare practitioner.

L-theanine: Believed to increase alertness and improve memory, L-theanine helps to boost energy levels, decrease stress and anxiety, and boost T cell production, which can be a low in those with chronic fatigue syndrome.

Omega-3 fatty acids: The body requires healthy fats for proper growth and development, as well as normal brain function. Deficiency in omega-3’s can result in low energy, memory issues, depression and a weakened immune system.

Above all, to support energy levels and fight tiredness, work towards getting regular adequate sleep, include energy boosting foods such as spinach, nuts, yogurt and fatty fish, avoid dehydration by drinking adequate amounts of water, and get twenty to thirty minutes of exercise daily.

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other high quality supplements to support cellular energy production and overall health:

B Complex with Metafolin® by Douglas Laboratories: This comprehensive B vitamin complex provides all the essential B vitamins, as well as intrinsic factor, a nutrient necessary for optimal B 12 absorption. Gluten, soy, yeast, dairy, artificial ingredient free, Non-GMO formulation.

End Fatigue™ Daily Energy B Complex by Integrative Therapeutics®: This ultimate blend of B vitamins provides high level support for all day energy, and healthy blood, brain and nerve cell function. End Fatigue™ is especially helpful when under stress or to maintain mental alertness when fatigued. Gluten, soy, dairy, wheat, yeast and artificial ingredient free, vegan formulation.

Mag Complete by Complementary Prescriptions: This key formulation blends four forms of magnesium for optimal absorption and utilization in support of energy production and the maintenance of healthy nerve and muscle function.

L-Theanine 100 mg by Integrative Therapeutics®: This naturally calming amino acid helps to reduce stress and promote a restful, relaxed state without diminishing daytime alertness. L-theanine has no significant side effects. Gluten, dairy, wheat, yeast and artificial ingredient free, vegan formulation.

NeuroNutrients™ with Iron by Neurobiologix: This complete bioavailable vitamin and mineral formulation provides high quality, balanced proprietary nutrients to support cellular energy production, and good physical and neurological health.

References:
Fatigue Definition. http://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/fatigue/basics/definition/sym-20050894
Why Am I Tired All the Time? Fatigue vs. Sleepiness. https://universityhealthnews.com/daily/energy/why-am-i-tired-all-the-time/
Eating to Boost Energy. http://www.eatright.org/resource/food/nutrition/healthy-eating/eating-to-boost-energy
Fatigue Causes Include Lack of 4 Specific Nutrients. https://universityhealthnews.com/daily/energy/fatigue-causes-include-lack-of-4-specific-nutrients/
Eating to Boost Energy. https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/eating-to-boost-energy
Important to recognize the difference between tiredness and fatigue. http://www.news-medical.net/news/2007/01/31/21652.aspx
8 Energy Boosting Foods to Keep You Alert. https://universityhealthnews.com/daily/energy/energy-boosting-foods-to-keep-you-alert/

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Tagged B Vitamins, B-Complex with Metafolin by Douglas Laboratories, End Fatigue™ Daily Energy B Complex by Integrative Therapeutics®:, Got Fatigue?, Iron, L-Theanine 100 mg by Integrative Therapeutics®:, Mag Complete by Complementary Prescriptions:, Magnesium, NeuroNutrients™ with Iron by Neurobiologix, omega-3 fatty acids

What is Metabolism Anyway?

Posted on October 25, 2016 by Professional Supplement Center | Comments Off

The first documented reference to metabolism can be traced all the way back to 1260 A.D., when Ibn al-Nafis, a Syrian born physician, authored a work entitled The Treatise of Kamil on the Prophet’s Biography. Per the recent article in IEEE PULSE Engineering In Medicine and Biology Society magazine, Ibn al-Nafis reportedly stated: “Both the body and its parts are in a continuous state of dissolution and nourishment, so they are inevitably undergoing permanent change.” And that is precisely what metabolism is. Metabolism comes from the Greek word, metabolismos, meaning “change” or “overthrow,” as in the breakdown of material.

While many of us may think of metabolism in reference to how quickly or slowly we gain or lose weight, cellular metabolism is any biological process required by the body to support life, allowing for maintenance, growth, reproduction, damage repair and the breakdown of food into energy. In simple terms, metabolism is divided into two categories that comprise of all the physical and chemical processes the body uses to either convert or utilize energy. These chemical reactions are organized into metabolic pathways that are finely regulated by crucial enzymes in order to maintain homeostasis.

Catabolism is a series of chemical reactions that breakdown complex molecules into smaller units, such as the breakdown of proteins into amino acids, typically releasing energy.
Anabolism is a series of chemical reactions that builds molecules from smaller components, such as muscle tissue growth, typically requiring energy usage.

All cellular activities require energy. Consequently, cells are tasked with both obtaining energy and using that energy to drive energy-requiring reactions. Because cells must constantly expend energy derived from their environment, energy formation is a vital component of metabolism. The key to producing the metabolic energy necessary for proper bodily function is nutrition. A nutrient is any chemical component of food that the body requires to carry out vital processes. Good nutrition benefits health at the cellular level where energy production occurs. Vitamins and minerals are necessary for obtaining energy from macronutrients and often function as enzymes or coenzymes.

B-complex vitamins are particularly important for energy metabolism. All B vitamins help to convert carbohydrates into glucose that the body uses to produce energy. B-complex vitamins also aid in the metabolism of fats and proteins.

B1 (Thiamine) – Thiamin plays a crucial role in metabolic reactions. It is a required for the formation of ATP, which every cell uses for energy.

B2 (Riboflavin) – In addition to producing energy for the body, B2 works as an antioxidant and works to convert B6 and folate into usable forms.

B3 (Niacin) – In addition to its energy producing and anti-inflammatory properties, niacin aids in hormone production, improves circulation and supports proper nervous system function.

B5 (Pantothenic Acid) – B5 plays a role in the breakdown of fats and carbohydrates for energy production. It is critical to the manufacture of red blood cells, as well as certain hormones including stress-related adrenal hormones. B5 helps to maintain a healthy digestive tract and aids in the utilization of other B vitamins.

B6 (Pyridoxine) – Like other energy producing B vitamins, B6 has many functions. B6 assists in the production of neurotransmitters melatonin, serotonin and norepinephrine. It supports normal brain development and function and works synergistically with other B vitamins to control homocysteine, an amino acid associated with heart disease. B6 is necessary for B12 absorption, and for red blood and immune cell production.

B9 (Folic Acid) – This synergistic B vitamin is crucial for proper brain function and plays an important role in DNA and RNA production. It is especially important during pregnancy, infancy and adolescence when cells and tissues are growing rapidly.

B12 (Cobalamin) – Besides the conversion of nutrients into energy, B12 is particularly important for nerve cell health, DNA and RNA production and homocysteine regulation. Along with other B vitamins, B12 assists in red blood production and assists iron utilization.

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other fine quality products that support energy metabolism and overall healthy function:

B Complex Plus by Pure Encapsulations – This popular product contains an exceptional combination of B vitamins in optimal bioavailable forms. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO vegetarian formula.

B-Complex with Metafolin by Douglas Laboratories – This comprehensive B-complex provides essential B vitamins plus intrinsic factor, a necessary nutrient for B12 absorption. Soy free, vegetarian formula.

Active B-Complex by Integrative Therapeutics – This balanced, hypoallergenic B-complex provides active forms of B vitamins. Gluten, dairy, soy, and sugar free, vegetarian formula. NSF Certified for Sport.

Active B complex by Bioclinic Naturals – This product contains the full array of biologically active B vitamins along with Quatrefolic® folate, in support of the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Gluten, dairy, soy, sugar and yeast free, Non-GMO vegan formulation.

Super Vitamin B Complex by Allergy Research Group – This advanced low allergen potential formula provides substantial amounts of all B vitamins, including co-enzymes forms of B2 and B6 for enhanced bioavailability. Gluten and soy free, vegetarian formulation.

Balanced B Complex by MegaFood – 20% OFF This easily digestible balanced B vitamin supplement is formulated with FoodState Nutrients™ to deliver authentic nourishment from 100% whole foods. Gluten, soy and lactose fee, Non-GMO, kosher vegan formulation.