Quick Reference to Popular Supplements
Acidophilus
Lactobacillus acidophilus is a 'friendly' organism which helps the body fight disease and restore health. Modern research has discovered that acidophilus kills the harmful bacteria strain of E. coli in the intestinal tract. Acidophilus breaks milk sugar down into lactic acid. Bacteria which produce putrefaction and gas in the intestines cannot live in lactic acid. Acidophilus also has the unique ability to help the body synthesize, or manufacture all of the 'B' vitamins in the system. This makes it especially valuable since there is literally a host of agents which destroy B vitamins. A few are antibiotics, birth control pills, eating sugar and refined foods and drinking coffee. A diet high in red meat will destroy the beneficial bacteria, due to the concentration of antibiotics and steroids given to the animals before they are slaughtered.Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar helps the body get rid of toxins and nourishes the digestive processes.B Complex
B-complex vitamins play many roles in the human body, but primarily they nourish the brain and nervous system. A diet high in refined foods or a life full of stress puts a greater demand on the body for these important nutrients. B1 - skin, eyes, hair; B2 - nourishes the tissues of the body; B6 - mild diuretic, PMS; B12 - anxiety and depression; Folic Acid - works synergistically with B12, cell division and replication; Biotin - metabolism of protein, fats and carbohydrates, cholesterol; B3 (Niacin) - energy production; Pantothenic acid - nourishes the adrenal glands which help the body to withstand stress; PABA - works synergistically with folic acid; Choline bitartrate - helps make acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter in the brain; Inositol - metabolism of fat and cholesterol; absorption and utilization of fat.Bee Pollen
Bee pollen is a rich source of many nutrients, including amino acids. It bursts with easily assimilated protein and lecithin, which nourish the brain and nervous system. Bee Pollen nutritionally supports the body in many ways, including assisting with vitality and a feeling of well-being. It has been used by athletes, along with Ginseng, to maintain energy and stamina.Bioflavonoids
Bioflavonoids are nutrients which are related to the Vitamin C family. They cannot be synthesized by the body, and therefore must be obtained from food or supplements. Bioflavonoids are helpful in nourishing the integrity and strength of capillaries and cells.Biotin
Biotin assists in the metabolism of fat and protein. It nourishes muscles.Black Currant Oil
Black currant oil is rich in linoleic acid and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). This substance supports the body's manufacture of hormone-like substances known as prostaglandins which help regulate functions of the circulatory system. GLA assists the body with its energy processes and is a structural component of the brain, bone marrow, muscles and cell membranes.Borage Oil
Borage oil is an excellent source of gamma-linolenic acid. It also nourishes the heart.Boron
Boron may retard bone loss.Calcium
Calcium is essential to strong bones and may prevent osteoporosis.Calcium Pantothenate
Calcium pantothenate nutritionally supports the glandular system and helps promote a feeling of well-being.Caprylic Acid
Caprylic acid is a nutrient from coconuts which helps burst yeast cells and hinder their reproduction.Carnitine
L-carnitine is an amino acid which nourishes the heart, nourishes and strengthens muscles, and nutritionally supports the circulatory system. L-Carnitine is considered to be a "carrier" of fat to the mitochondria or "fatburning" area of the cell. This remarkable amino acid-like substance is not only necessary for the metabolism of fat at the cellular level; it is also essential in the forming of firm, lean muscle tissue in the body. Recent studies support earlier research which shows that the heart has the greatest amount of L-Carnitine of any muscle in the body. L-Carnitine has also shown to be instrumental in the metabolism of cholesterol. Some overweight people may lack L-Carnitine in their bodies. The heart produces most of its energy from fats; thus is dependent upon L-carnitine. An L-Carnitine deficiency causes extreme metabolic impairment to heart tissue. On the other hand, supplemental L-Carnitine has proved to be beneficial to heart patients.Cayenne
Cayenne is a pepper well known for its benefits to the circulatory system. It aids the body to balance pressure levels and resist abnormal bleeding. Cayenne also nourishes the digestive system. This plant assists in the body's utilization of other herbs, when used in an herbal combination. When applied topically, it helps relieve minor discomfort.Celery Seed
Celery seeds contain vitamins A, C and B-complex.Chitosan
Chitosan provides a natural source of fiber and acts like other dietary fibers by benefiting the circulatory system. It also helps the body maintain normal functions of digestion and elimination. Researchers believe that if we cleanse our colon with frequent bowel movements, we can rid ourselves of these dangerous toxins, therefore reducing our risk for disease. And how do we create this cleansing process? Fiber is the most important source in reducing your chances. Chitosan is a natural dietary fiber.Choline
Choline helps in the formation of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter, which assists brain function and health. It also helps the body break down fats effectively.Chromium
Chromium is necessary for the body to convert glucose to energy. A U.S. Department of Agriculture study has shown that nine out of ten Americans get less than the low end range of chromium recommended by the National Academy of Sciences. Biologically-active chromium (as found in ChromaTone), helps maximize the body's efficient use of insulin. Insulin regulates the metabolism of blood sugar, lipids (including cholesterol) and protein. Studies also indicate that chromium, when combined with appropriate exercise, has very positive muscle-tissue building and toning properties.Chromium Polynicotinate
Chromium polynicotinate is nutritionally beneficial as an appetite suppressant and for normalizing blood sugars.Co-enzyme Q10
Studies that have been conducted on this co-enzyme in the past 40 years demonstrate that it can help maintain healthy immune and cardiovascular systems, tissues and organs, and oral health (especially the gums). It also assists the body to maintain proper weight balance.Cranberry
Cranberry contains a compound that prevents bacteria from adhering to the walls of the bladder and rest of the urinary tract. This prevents the bacteria from spreading and eventually results in the halt of infection. Using cranberry on a regular basis may help prevent the formation of kidney stones.Cruciferous Vegetables
Research conducted by Dr. Jon Michnovicz of the Institute for Hormone Research and Dr. Leon Bradlow of the Strang Institute, suggests that increased consumption of cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage and Brussels sprouts may reduce the risk of certain cancers, particularly breast cancer. Cruciferous vegetables contain indoles - a unique class of phytonutrients that have been scientifically shown to balance hormone levels, detoxify the intestines and liver and reinforce the body's immune system.DHEA
DHEA is a short name for the fancier name of Dehydroepiandrosterone, a hormone normally produced by the adrenal glands, but which diminishes as a person ages. It is a precursor to male (androgens) and female (estrogens) steroid hormones. DHEA seems to increase a feeling of vitality in many people.Enzymes
The enzymes Amylase, Cellulase, Invertase, Lipase, Protease, Glucoamylase act as catalysts for proper assimilation of vitamins, minerals, fats, proteins and carbohydrates.Essential Fatty Acids
Essential fatty acids (EFA), sometimes referred to as vitamin F, cannot be made from the body - they must be supplied in the diet. Essential fatty acids nourish the body at the very foundation of health . . . at the cellular level. They strengthen cell membranes to fortify against the invasion of harmful microorganisms. These nutrients also help dissolve body fat and increase metabolism and energy production. Thus, they are also very helpful in a comprehensive weight management program. Essential Fatty Acids help reduce cravings for sweet and fatty foods.Evening Primrose Oil
Evening primrose oil supplies both linolenic and linoleic essential fatty acids.Folic Acid
Folic acid is a vitamin that stimulates the formation of normal red blood cells. Folic acid helps nourish the skin and nervous system.Garlic
Garlic provides nourishment for the circulatory, immune and urinary systems. It aids in supporting with normal circulation, nourishing stomach tissues, maintaining normal blood pressure and aids the body's natural ability to resist disease. Garlic is a natural antibiotic and fungicide.Germanium
This trace mineral is a potent antioxidant. It improves oxygen flow to cells, and strengthens the immune system. It has pain-relieving properties and studies have shown that organic germanium (sesquioxide) can nutritionally support the body's defense system. Many people have attributed remarkable benefits with the intake of Germanium. One woman had suffered many years with arthritis, nervous problems and a painful muscle disease called "fibrositis." She could not stand to even barely be touched because it caused her such agony. This person began taking one capsule daily of 30 mg. of germanium sesquioxide, which also had odorless garlic added. She said, "Now I'm on 'cloud nine' since taking Germanium ... and I have so much energy, I don't know what to do with it all!Glucosamine
Glucosamine stimulates the body's manufacture of collagen, the protein portion of the fibrous substance that holds joints together. Collagen is also the main component of the shock-absorbing cushion called articular cartilage — the white smooth surface which covers the ends of body joints — such as those in the wrist, fingers, toes, ankles, knees, hips and between the discs of the spine.Glycogen
Glycogen is the body's natural form of stored energy. Glycogen provides the long drive of energy known as the athlete's "second wind." Stored half in the muscles and half in the liver, glycogen is enzymatically controlled for a natural time release of energy to maintain necessary blood sugar levels.Grapefruit Pectin
Grapefruit pectin (derived from the pulp and rind of this citrus fruit) is a type of fiber which can bind toxins and help eliminate them from the body.Grapeseed Extract
Grapeseed extract is a rich source of potent antioxidant bioflavonoids known as proanthocyanidins. Grape seed extract provides 92-95% potency, as compared to 80-84% yielded by pine bark. This means that its antioxidant and nutritional properties are far superior. According to proanthocyanidin researcher, Dr. Jack Masquelier, only grape seeds contain powerful gallic esters, dynamic ingredients in the battle against free radicals.Inositol
Inositol nourishes the brain and helps balance cholesterol levels. It also helps the body break down fats effectively.Iodine
The thyroid depends upon minerals, especially iodine, to function properly and to secrete adequate amounts of thyroxine and triiodothyronine. These hormones influence metabolic rate and body temperature, as well as regulate protein, fat, and carbohydrate utilization in cells.Iron
In North America, 58% of the population consume less than the recommended daily amount of iron. Iron deficiency is the single most common nutrient deficiency in the world today. Growing children, females and athletes all have increased need for iron in order to avoid anemia. Iron is vital to healthy blood and an essential part of the oxygen-carrying hemoglobin of the blood.Kelp
Kelp contains nearly thirty minerals which nourish the glands (especially the thyroid and pituitary). By enhancing the action of the glandular system, it helps balance the body's metabolism and rate at which it burns calories. Kelp, also known as seaweed, grows in the rich ocean beds, far below surface pollution levels. Because of its high nutrient content, this herb is reputedly beneficial for a wide range of applications. It is known to nourish the sensory nerves, brain membranes, also spinal cord and brain tissue. Kelp contains alginic acid which can help protect the body against the effects of radiation.Lecithin
Lecithin is essential to every cell and organ in the body. It provides nourishment to the body so that the body can regulate metabolism, increase defenses and break down fat and cholesterol.Magnesium
Magnesium helps with the absorption of calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, B complex, C and E.Manganese
When manganese is bound or "chelated" with specific amino acids, it targets parts of the body to help metabolism. When manganese is chelated with the amino acids proline, histidine, and glutamic acid, it travels through the blood to the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is the organ below the brain which is responsible for regulating many body functions, including temperature, appetite and sleep. The chelated manganese increases the natural thyrotropin-releasing hormone secreted by the hypothalamus. This hormone, known as T.R.H., has a direct effect on the master gland (pituitary).Melatonin
Melatonin is produced in the body by the pineal gland in the brain. Tryptophan, an amino acid found in food, is taken in by the body and made into serotonin, a neurotransmitter (conductor of nerve signals). The pineal gland takes the serotonin and makes it into melatonin, but only during the night. (The enzymes in the brain which change serotonin into melatonin are inactivated by light). Norepinephrine is another neurotransmitter which assists in melatonin production. It acts as a catalyst to melatonin production by stimulating cells in the pineal gland to begin making melatonin in the absence of light. Sometimes, for one reason or another, the body does not produce adequate amounts of melatonin for its needs. This can result in insomnia and depression, among other symptoms. The body's ability to synthesize melatonin may decrease with age.Minerals
Trace (micro) and major (macro) minerals play a crucial role in maintaining health. It is well-established that some mineral deficiencies can be linked to physical conditions including grey hair, baldness, asthma, eczema, psoriasis, epilepsy, diabetes, arthritis and mental illness.MSM
MSM is simply an acronym for methylsulfonylmethane, a dietary source of sulfur that naturally supports the immune system and plays a major role in the formation of enzymes and hormones that control body activities.Niacin
Niacin is nutritionally beneficial for circulation. Niacin reduces low-density lipid (LDL) forms of cholesterol and improves peripheral blood flow.Nicotinamide
Nicotinamide nourishes the digestive and circulatory systems.Noni
The noni plant has many folk-remedy uses. It is fabled among the Polynesian peoples to especially help support the body's respiratory, immune, digestive, and structural systems.Octacosanol
Octacosanol is derived from wheat germ oil and helps improve endurance and stamina.PABA
PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid) helps assimilate pantothenic acid and nourishes the skin.Papaya
Papaya contains an enzyme called papain which helps the body break down protein.Parsley
Parsley is valued as a blood builder, cleanser and has pressure regulating properties.Potassium
Potassium nourishes the heart, kidneys, pancreas, muscles and the nerves. It assists in the growth and repair of body tissues, and also helps conduct messages in the body through the nervous system. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure. There must be a balanced potassium-to-sodium ratio in the body for all systems to function at their optimum level.Quercetin
Quercetin has been shown to help the body defend itself against harmful microorganisms.Resveratrol
Red wine extract contains the recently acclaimed flavonoid, resveratrol. Resveratrol is found naturally in many fruits and vegetables, however, red wine and other grape products are the richest source. Recent research has linked resveratrol supplementation with enhanced immune and cardiovascular support.Rhubarb
Rhubarb can help dissolve mucus adhering to the walls of the colon.Salmon Oil
Salmon oil is rich in Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids. These nutrients are recognized as having many beneficial properties. They include regulating the body's production of cholesterol, and strengthening cell walls, fortifying them against the invasion of viruses and bacteria.Selenium
Selenium is a mineral that reinforces the body's defense system.Vitamin B1
Vitamin B1 (thiamine) has positive effects on the nervous system, mental well-being, skin, eyes, and hair.Vitamin B2
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) nourishes skin, nails, hair, growth, reproduction and vision. The body needs more of this nutrient during stress situations.Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine HCL) is necessary to metabolize B12 in the body. It helps the body release excess water and nourishes the nervous system.Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is used in the production of energy and it nourishes the nervous system. Vitamin B12 supports the maturation of red blood cells.Vitamin C
We do not produce our own vitamin C — it must be obtained from our diet. Science continues to confirm, with ever increasing evidence, the benefits of the C vitamin family to especially nourish the body's structural and defense systems. Vitamin C strengthens cells and tissues and helps build the body's defense system.Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant and helps the body cope with toxic substances such as air pollution. It also helps protect the cells and increase oxygen to them. Research shows that animals who were exposed to various concentrations of ozone and took vitamin E lived longer than animals whose diets were not supplemented with this nutrient. Vitamin E strengthens the circulatory system and may help soothe leg and foot aches that occur at night.Vitamin F
Vitamin F, also know as Essential Fatty Acids (EFA), cannot be made from the body - they must be supplied in the diet. Essential fatty acids nourish the body at the cellular level. They strengthen cell membranes to fortify against the invasion of harmful microorganisms. These nutrients also help dissolve body fat and increase metabolism and energy production. Thus, they are also very helpful in a comprehensive weight management program.Watermelon seeds
Watermelon seeds help the body eliminate excess water.Whey
Whey is derived from the cheese-making process, and is full of vitamins and minerals. It is also a superior protein source, with a protein efficiency rating that exceeds that of soy, wheat, and even whole milk. This means that the protein in whey is used more efficiently by the body than by the protein from these other sources.Zinc
Zinc is essential for the health of the reproductive organs, especially in men.
