Ingredients
Acerola extract (fruit)Acerola extract (fruit)
Acerola extract is obtained from the fruit of the small tree, Malpighia glabra or Malpighia punicifolia. Acerola is grown in tropical regions of the Americas. The fruit is known for being one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C and also contains vitamin A, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin and polyphenols, such as anthocyanins. Acerola fruit extract acts as an antioxidant, likely due to the presence of some of these nutrients (1). Most acerola fruit is processed into fruit products, such as jams, jellies and juices, or added to dietary supplements as a source of vitamin C (2).
This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
• Catalyst™ caplets
References
1. Natural Standard Database. www.naturalstandard.com. 2009.
2. Ensminger AH, Ensminger ME, Konlande JE, Robson JRK. The Concise Encyclopedia of Foods and Nutrition. Boca Raton, Florida: CRC Press, 1995.
Last updated March, 2009
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Aloe vera (inner leaf gel powder)Aloe vera (inner leaf gel powder)
Aloe vera inner leaf gel powder is the powder obtained from the freeze-dried gel from the leaves of the aloe vera plant, Aloe barbadensis.
For centuries, the plant aloe vera has been used by cultures for its beneficial effects on human health (1). Today aloe vera gel continues to be used in supplements, foods, beverages, and cosmetics. Aloe leaves consist of two major parts, the outer leaf epidermis and the inner leaf gel, which are very different in their chemical composition and properties. Aloe gel is obtained from the inner portion of the leaves. Aloe gel is rich in nutrients and contains an abundant supply of glycoproteins and mono-, oligo- and polysaccharides. Monosaccharide constituents include glucose, mannose, galacturonic acid, glucuronic acid, galactose, arabinose, fucose, glucosamine, fructose, rhamnose and xylose (2).
Much of the health benefits observed by the use of aloe vera gel may be attributed to its high molecular weight polysaccharides. Before a process was developed to stabilize aloe vera gel or extracts, fresh preparations were regarded as being required for any therapeutic efficacy (3). It has now been shown that careful drying of aloe vera gel can retain the polysaccharide content important for producing many of its health benefits (4).
This ingredient can be found in the following products:
• Advanced Ambrotose® capsules
• Advanced Ambrotose® powder
• AmbroStart® drink mix
• Ambrotose AO® capsules
• Ambrotose® Complex capsules
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
• Catalyst™ caplets
• EM•PACT®
• MannaBears™ supplement
• Manna-C™ capsules
• MannaCLEANSE™ caplets
• NutriVerus™ powder
• Optimal Support Packets
• Phyt-Aloe® capsules or powder
• PhytoBurst® Nutritional Chews
• PhytoMatrix® caplets
• PLUS™ caplets
• SPORT™ capsules
ReferencesReferences
1. The Merck Index. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck & Co., Inc., 1996.
2. Duncan, C., Ramberg, J., and Sinnott, R. Striking differences in Aloe vera gel carbohydrate composition, molecular weight and particle size distributions following processing will not be addressed by dietary supplement GMPs. Poster Presentation at the 5th Annual Natural Supplements Conference, January 17-20, 2008, Scripps Center for Integrative Medicine, San Diego, California.
3. Gjerstad G, Riner TD. Current status of aloe as a cure-all. Am J Pharm Sci Support Public Health 1968;140:58-64.
4. Ni Y, Turner D, Yates KM, Tizard I. Isolation and characterization of structural components of Aloe vera L. leaf pulp. Int J Immunopharmacol. 2004;4:1745-55.
Last updated March, 2013
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Alpha-lipoic acidAlpha-lipoic acid
Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is an organic compound made naturally in the body. It functions as a coenzyme in chemical reactions that generate energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). It also demonstrates antioxidant activity. Food sources of ALA include red meat, spinach, broccoli and yeast (1).
This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
• Catalyst™ caplets
References
1. Natural Medicines. Comprehensive Database. Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2003.
Last updated March, 2009
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Arabinogalactan (from Larix spp. wood)Arabinogalactan (from Larix spp. wood)
Arabinogalactans are a class of long, densely branched high-molecular weight polysaccharides extracted for commercial uses from the bark of the Eastern and Western Larch trees, Larix larcinia and Larix occidentalis. Their monosaccharide constituents include galactose, arabinose, glucose and mannose (1). Larch arabinogalactans are considered a good source of soluble dietary fiber. Arabinogalactans are common in many food plants, including corn, carrots, tomatoes, pears, wheat and red wine (2).
The amount of arabinogalactan absorbed through the intestine after an oral dose is unclear. Non-absorbed arabinogalactan is fermented by bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract (3),(4). Larch arabinogalactans are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as generally recognized as safe (GRAS) (21CFR172.610).
This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• Advanced Ambrotose® capsules
• Advanced Ambrotose® powder
• AmbroStart® drink mix
• Ambrotose® Complex capsules
• Ambrotose® Complex powder
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
• Catalyst™ caplets
• EM•PACT®
• Manna-C™ capsules
• MannaCLEANSE™ caplets
• NutriVerus™ powder
• Optimal Support Packets
• Phyt-Aloe® capsules or powder
• PLUS™ caplets
• SPORT™ capsules
References
1. Luta G, Duncan C, Sinnott R. Chemical characterization of polysaccharide-rich ingredients from Aloe vera, Larix laricina and Larix occidentalis, and Undaria pinnatifida. Presented at the Scripps Center for Integrative Medicine's 6th Annual Natural Supplements Conference, San Diego, California.January 22-25, 2009. 2009.2. Cui SW. Polysaccharide Gums from Agricultural Products: Processing, Structures & Functionality. Lancaster, Pa.: Technomic Publishing Co., Inc., 2001.3. Crociani F, Alessandrini A, Mucci MM, Biavati B. Degradation of complex carbohydrates by Bifidobacterium spp. Int J Food Microbiol 1994;24:199-210.4. Kelly GS. 'Larch arabinogalactan: clinical relevance of a novel immune-enhancing polysaccharide. Altern.Med Rev 1999;4:96-103.Last updated March, 2013
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Camu-camu extract (fruit)Camu-camu extract (fruit)
Camu-camu extract is obtained from the fruit of the small tree, Myrciaria paraensis or Myrciaria dubia. Camu-camu grows in areas of the Amazon rainforest, and the fruit is eaten fresh or made into jam, jelly or wine (1). Camu-camu fruit is one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C, and it contains polyphenolic compounds called anthocyanins (2). These nutrients likely contribute to the fruit’s antioxidant activities (3).
This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
References
1. Ensminger AH, Ensminger ME, Konlande JE, Robson JRK. The Concise Encyclopedia of Foods and Nutrition. Boca Raton, Florida: CRC Press, 1995.
2. Zanatta CF, Cuevas E, Bobbio FO, Winterhalter P, Mercadante AZ. Determination of anthocyanins from camu-camu (Myrciaria dubia) by HPLC-PDA, HPLC-MS, and NMR. J Agric Food Chem 2005;53:9531-5.3. Inoue T, Komoda H, Uchida T, Node K. J Cardiol. 2008;52:127-32.Last updated March, 2009
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Carambola (fruit)Carambola (fruit)
Carambola is the fruit of the small tree, Averrhoa carambola, native to Indonesia and other tropical areas in Asia. Commonly referred to as star fruit, carambola may be consumed fresh or made into jam, jelly, juice or tarts (1). The fruit is a good source of fiber and rich in vitamin C, which likely contributes to its antioxidant activities (2).
This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
References
1. Ensminger AH, Ensminger ME, Konlande JE, Robson JRK. The Concise Encyclopedia of Foods and Nutrition. Boca Raton, Florida: CRC Press, 1995.
2. Mahattanatawee K, Manthey JA, Luzio G, Talcott ST, Goodner K, Baldwin EA. Total antioxidant activity and fiber content of select Florida-grown tropical fruits. J Agric Food Chem 2006;54:7355-63.Last updated March, 2009
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Chinese Hawthorn extract (fruit)Chinese Hawthorn extract (fruit)
Chinese Hawthorn extract is obtained from the dried fruit of the Chinese Hawthorn small tree, Crataegus pinnatifida. There are a number of Hawthorn species that are native to areas in North America, Europe and East Asia (1). The Hawthorn fruit, called shan zha in Chinese, has been valued by Chinese cultures for thousands of years. It is also made into jams and jellies or brewed into herbal tea. Chinese Hawthorn fruit is a source of fiber, iron, potassium, vitamin C and vitamin A (2). The fruit also contains flavonoids, such as procyanidins, that demonstrate antioxidant activity (3).
This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
References
1. Leung A, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. New York, NY: John Wiley, 1996.
2. Ensminger AH, Ensminger ME, Konlande JE, Robson JRK. The Concise Encyclopedia of Foods and Nutrition. Boca Raton, Florida: CRC Press, 1995.3. Natural Standard Database. www.naturalstandard.com. 2009.Last updated March, 2009
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Coenzyme Q10Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), also known as ubiquinone, is a vitamin-like compound found naturally in most cells of the body, with the highest concentrations found in the heart, liver, kidneys and pancreas. It functions as a cofactor in chemical reactions that generate energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). CoQ10 also demonstrates antioxidant activity. Food sources of CoQ10 include animal organ meats, such as liver and kidney. CoQ10 can also be made in the body through a process that requires B vitamins and vitamin C, along with other nutrients. CoQ10 is commonly used as a dietary supplement by healthy individuals (1).
This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
• Catalyst™ caplets
References
1. Natural Standard Database. www.naturalstandard.com. 2009.
Last updated March, 2009
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Folate (folic acid)Folate (folic acid)
Folate is a water-soluble B complex vitamin that is used in the human body for synthesis of nucleic acids and amino acids. Food sources of folate include dark green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits and juices, legumes and liver.
Folate is well tolerated in amounts found in fortified foods and supplements. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has established a Reference Daily Intake (RDI) of 400 μg folate for adults and children 4 or more years of age (21CFR101.9). RDIs are a set of dietary references for essential vitamins and minerals that are considered amounts sufficient to meet the daily requirements of healthy individuals. RDIs serve as the basis for calculating the percent daily value (%DV) amounts found on dietary supplement and food labels.This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
• Catalyst™ caplets
• GlycoSlim® chocolate meal replacement
• GlycoSlim® vanilla meal replacement
• NutriVerus™ powder
• Optimal Support Packets
• PhytoBurst® nutritional chews
• PhytoMatrix® caplets
References
1. Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin B12, Pantothenic Acid, Biotin, and Choline. Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press, 2000.
Last updated March, 2013
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Garlic (bulb)Garlic (bulb)
Garlic, a member of the onion family Alliaceae, is an herb that has been used as a medicinal agent and a seasoning for many centuries (1). Garlic is an excellent source of calcium, selenium, vitamin C, vitamin B6 and manganese and a good source of protein, copper and phosphorus (2). Many of the health benefits of garlic are attributed to its sulfur-containing compounds – thiosulfinates, sulfoxides and dithiins – which are also responsible for its distinctive odor (3). Garlic and its derivatives are considered generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use as food additives (21CFR184.1317) (4).
This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• Ambrotose AO® capsules
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
• Optimal Support Packets
• Phyt-Aloe® capsules or powder
References
1. Ensminger AH, Ensminger ME, Konlande JE, Robson JRK. The Concise Encyclopedia of Foods and Nutrition. Boca Raton, Florida: CRC Press, 1995.
2. United States Department of Agriculture. USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 21. http://www.ars.usda.gov/main/site_main.htm?modecode=12-35-45-00. 2008.
3. Natural Standard Database. www.naturalstandard.com. 2009.
4. Food and Drug Administration. EAFUS: A Food Additive Database. http://www.foodsafety.gov/~dms/eafus.html. 10-17-2008. 12-4-2008.
Last updated March, 2009
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Ghatti gumGhatti gum
Ghatti gum, a mixture of complex polysaccharides, comes from the bark of Anogeissus latifolia, a large tree native to India and Sri Lanka. Monosaccharide constituents include arabinose, galactose, mannose, xylose and glucuronic acid. Ghatti gum is used in supplements, foods, drugs and cosmetics. It contains as much as 80% soluble dietary fiber (1).Most gums are believed to be largely degraded in the colon (2). Test tube studies have demonstrated the fermentation of ghatti gum by the beneficial human bacteria species Bifidobacterium (3),(4). Ghatti gum is considered generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is permitted for use as a food (21CFR184.1333).This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• Advanced Ambrotose® capsules
• Advanced Ambrotose® powder
• AmbroStart® drink mix
• Ambrotose AO® capsules
• Ambrotose® Complex capsules
• Ambrotose® Complex powder
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
• Catalyst™ caplets
• EM•PACT®
• Emprizone® gel
• FIRM with Ambrotose® cream
• Manna-C™ capsules
• MannaCLEANSE™ caplets
• Optimal Support Packets
• Phyt-Aloe® capsules or powder
• PLUS™ caplets
• SPORT™ capsules
References
1. Glicksman M. Gum Ghatti (Indian gum). In: Glicksman M, ed. Food Hydrocolloids. Boca Raton: CRC Press 1983:31-7.
2. Hill MJ. Bacterial fermentation of complex carbohydrate in the human colon. Eur J Cancer Prev 1995;4:353-8.
3. Crociani F, Alessandrini A, Mucci MM, Biavati B. Degradation of complex carbohydrates by Bifidobacterium spp. Int J Food Microbiol 1994;24:199-210.
4. Salyers AA, West SE, Vercellotti JR, Wilkins TD. Fermentation of mucins and plant polysaccharides by anaerobic bacteria from the human colon. Appl Environ Microbiol 1977;34:529-33.
Last updated March, 2013
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Grape extract (seed & skin)Grape extract (seed & skin)
Grape extract (seed & skin). Grapes, the fruit of the grape vine Vitis vinifera, are the leading fruit crop in the world. Although they are popular as a fresh fruit, grapes are also used to make juices, jams, jelly, raisins and wine (1). Many health benefits provided by grapes and their products are attributed to their abundant polyphenols. The polyphenols in grapes include resveratrol and flavonoids: quercetin (and its glycoside, rutin), kaempferol, anthocyanins, tannins and myricetin. These compounds are present in the skins, seeds and stems of the grape and many demonstrate potent antioxidant activity (2). Grapes also contain plant acids, sugars, amino acids, minerals and small amounts of vitamins C and E (3), (4). Grape seed extract and grape skin extract are considered generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use as food additives (5).
This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
References
1. Ensminger AH, Ensminger ME, Konlande JE, Robson JRK. The Concise Encyclopedia of Foods and Nutrition. Boca Raton, Florida: CRC Press, 1995.
2. Torres JL, Varela B, Garcia MT et al. Valorization of grape (Vitis vinifera) byproducts. Antioxidant and biological properties of polyphenolic fractions differing in procyanidin composition and flavonol content. J Agric Food Chem 2002;50:7548-55.
3. Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs, and Cosmetics. New York: John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 1996.
4. Soleas GJ, Diamandis EP, Goldberg DM. J Clin Lab Anal. 1997;11:287-313.
5. Food and Drug Administration. EAFUS: A Food Additive Database. http://www.foodsafety.gov/~dms/eafus.html. 10-17-2008. 12-4-2008.
Last updated March, 2009
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Gum tragacanthGum tragacanth
Gum tragacanth comes from the stems and branches of the flowering plant Astragalus gummifer. The raw gum is made up of a mixture of two polysaccharides. Monosaccharide constituents include galactose, arabinose, xylose, fucose, rhamnose, and galacturonic acid (1). Gum tragacanth has been approved for use in pharmaceuticals in the U.S. since 1820 and in foods since 1925 (2). Most gums are believed to be largely degraded in the colon (3). Test tube studies have demonstrated that gum tragacanth can be digested by a number of bacteria that inhabit the human colon, including the beneficial Bifidobacteria species (4),(5). Gum tragacanth is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is commonly added to foods (21CFR184.1351).
This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• Advanced Ambrotose® capsules
• Advanced Ambrotose® powder
• AmbroStart® drink mix
• Ambrotose AO® capsules
• Ambrotose® Complex capsules
• Ambrotose® Complex powder
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
• Catalyst™ caplets
• EM•PACT®
• Emprizone® gel
• FIRM with Ambrotose® cream
• Manna-C™ capsules
• MannaCLEANSE™ caplets
• NutriVerus™ powder
• Optimal Support Packets
• Phyt-Aloe® capsules or powder
• PLUS™ caplets
• SPORT™ capsules
References
1. Anderson DM, Howlett JF, McNab CG. The amino acid composition of the proteinaceous component of gum tragacanth (Asiatic Astragalus spp.). Food Addit Contam 1985;2:231-5.
2. Anderson DM. Evidence for the safety of gum tragacanth (Asiatic Astragalus spp.) and modern criteria for the evaluation of food additives. Food Addit Contam 1989;6:1-12.
3. Hill MJ. Bacterial fermentation of complex carbohydrate in the human colon. Eur J Cancer Prev 1995;4:353-8.
4. Crociani F, Alessandrini A, Mucci MM, Biavati B. Degradation of complex carbohydrates by Bifidobacterium spp. Int J Food Microbiol 1994;24:199-210.
5. Salyers AA, West SE, Vercellotti JR, Wilkins TD. Fermentation of mucins and plant polysaccharides by anaerobic bacteria from the human colon. Appl Environ Microbiol 1977;34:529-33.
Last updated March, 2013
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L-arginineL-arginine
Arginine, a semi-essential amino acid, is particularly abundant in meats, whole grains, and dairy products (1). Under normal conditions the body can synthesize sufficient arginine to meet physiological needs. Stress conditions put an increased demand on the body for arginine and, under these conditions, dietary arginine becomes essential (2), (3). According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), arginine can be safely added to foods (21CFR172.320). Arginine can also be used as a skin conditioning agent in cosmetics and skin care products (4).
This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
• Optimal Support Packets
• PLUS™ caplets
References
1. Braverman ER, Pfeiffer CC, Blum K, Smayda R. The Healing Nutrients Within. New Canaan, Ct.: Keats Publishing, Inc., 1997.
2. PDR Health Database. www.pdrhealth.com. 2007.
3. Barbul A. Arginine: biochemistry, physiology, and therapeutic implications. JPEN J Parenter Enteral Nutr 1986;10:227-38.
4. International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary and Handbook. Washington, D.C.: The Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association, 2006.
Last updated March, 2009
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Magnesium (as magnesium oxide, magnesium glycinate, magnesium citrate)Magnesium (as magnesium oxide, magnesium glycinate, magnesium citrate)
Magnesium is an essential mineral nutrient for human life. Magnesium ions are essential to all living cells, but nearly 50% is found within the bones where they play a major role in bone and mineral homeostasis. Magnesium is also important for many cellular reactions such as energy generation, cell membrane stabilization and protein activation. Food sources of magnesium include green leafy vegetables, nuts, meat, starches and milk. Intestinal absorption of dietary magnesium in a typical diet is approximately 50 percent (1).
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has established a Reference Daily Intake (RDI) of 400 mg magnesium for adults and children 4 or more years of age (21CFR101.9). RDIs are a set of dietary references for essential vitamins and minerals that are considered amounts sufficient to meet the daily requirements of healthy individuals. RDIs serve as the basis for calculating the percent daily value (%DV) amounts found on dietary supplement and food labels.
Magnesium, when ingested as a naturally occurring substance in foods, has not been demonstrated to exert any adverse effects. However, adverse effects, such as mild gastrointestinal disturbances, have been observed with excess magnesium intake from nonfood sources (1).
Magnesium oxide, or magnesia, is a white mineral powder used as a source of magnesium in dietary supplements. It is also used as an excipient in oral formulations to bind excess water and to modify the pH (acidity or alkalinity) (2). Magnesium oxide is considered generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in foods by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) (21CFR184.1431) (3).
Magnesium glycinate is a form of chelated magnesium, in which the magnesium ion is bound to the amino acid glycine. Magnesium glycinate is more easily absorbed through the intestines into the blood stream than other sources of magnesium (e.g. magnesium oxide) (4). Due its enhanced bioavailability, magnesium glycinate is gaining popularity for use as a magnesium source in dietary supplements.
Magnesium citrate is a chelated form of magnesium, in which the magnesium ion is bound to citric acid. It is used as a source of magnesium in dietary supplements (5).This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
References
1. Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Vitamin D, and Fluoride. Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press, 1997.
2. Handbook of Pharmaceutical Excipients. Washington, DC: Pharmaceutical Press and American Pharmacists Assn, 2006.
3. Food and Drug Administration. EAFUS: A Food Additive Database. http://www.foodsafety.gov/~dms/eafus.html. 10-17-2008. 12-4-2008.
4. Schuette SA, Lashner BA, Janghorbani M. Bioavailability of magnesium diglycinate vs magnesium oxide in patients with ileal resection. JPEN J Parenter.Enteral Nutr 1994;18:430-5.
5. Natural Standard Database. www.naturalstandard.com. 2009.
Last updated March, 2009
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N-acetyl-L-cysteineN-acetyl-L-cysteine
N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) is a derivative of the amino acid L-cysteine. NAC has all the properties of L-cysteine, but is more water-soluble and possibly more bioavailable. NAC is absorbed into the bloodstream through the intestine, where it can cross cell membranes to be converted to L-cysteine and then into the potent antioxidant, glutathione (1).
This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
References
1. Natural Medicines. Comprehensive Database. Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2003.
Last updated March, 2009
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Policosanol (from sugar cane wax)Policosanol (from sugar cane wax)
Policosanol is a natural mixture of organic alcohols purified from sugar cane wax, Saccharium officinarum. The main alcohol component is called octacosanol, which makes up around 60% of the total alcohol content. Policosanol is safe and well-tolerated in healthy individuals (1).
This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
References
1. Natural Standard Database. www.naturalstandard.com. 2009.
Last updated March, 2009
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TaurineTaurine
Taurine is a non-essential amino acid, also known as 2-aminoethanesulfinic acid. It is found at high levels in protein-rich foods, such as meat and fish, and is also an ingredient found in many energy drinks. Taurine is important in many metabolic processes that take place in the body, particularly in the brain and heart (1).
This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
References
1. Natural Standard Database. www.naturalstandard.com. 2009.
Last updated March, 2009
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TrimethylglycineTrimethylglycine
Trimethylglycine (TMG) is a methylated amino acid also known as betaine or glycine betaine. TMG can be found in foods such as spinach, wheat, seafood and especially sugar beets. Naturally found in the body, TMG acts as a methyl donor to facilitate important biological processes (1).
This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
References
1. Natural Medicines. Comprehensive Database. Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2003.
Last updated March, 2009
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Vitamin B12 (as cyanocobalamin)Vitamin B12 (as cyanocobalamin)
Vitamin B12 is an essential water-soluble vitamin that is commonly found in a variety of animal foods such as fish, shellfish, meat and dairy products. Synthetic vitamin B12 is frequently used in combination with other B vitamins in vitamin B complex formulations and added to supplements and fortified foods such as cereals. An adequate supply of vitamin B12 is essential to maintain healthy nerve cell and red blood cell function, as well as for folate utilization. The average fractional absorption of vitamin B12 from food by healthy individuals is approximately 50 percent (1).
No adverse effects have been associated with vitamin B12 intake from food or supplements in healthy individuals (1). The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has established a Reference Daily Intake (RDI) of 6 μg vitamin B12 for adults and children 4 or more years of age (21CFR101.9). RDIs are a set of dietary references for essential vitamins and minerals that are considered amounts sufficient to meet the daily requirements of healthy individuals. RDIs serve as the basis for calculating the percent daily value (%DV) amounts found on dietary supplement and food labels.
Cyanocobalamin is the principal form of vitamin B12 for commercial use in fortified foods and dietary supplements. Once absorbed through the intestine, cyanocobalamin is converted to the active forms of vitamin B12 in the body.This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
• Catalyst™ caplets
• Optimal Support Packets
• PhytoBurst® nutritional chews
• PhytoMatrix® caplets
References
1. Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin B12, Pantothenic Acid, Biotin, and Choline. Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press, 2000.
Last updated March, 2013
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Vitamin B6 (as pyridoxine hydrochloride and pyridoxal 5-phosphate)Vitamin B6 (as pyridoxine hydrochloride and pyridoxal 5-phosphate)
Vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, is a water-soluble vitamin that functions as a coenzyme in the metabolism of amino acids and the release of glucose from glycogen (1). Major sources of vitamin B6 include fortified, ready-to-eat cereals; mixed foods (including sandwiches) with meat, fish or poultry as the main ingredient; white potatoes and other starchy vegetables; and non-citrus fruits. Vitamin B6 is frequently used in combination with other B vitamins in vitamin B complex formulations.
Vitamin B6 is generally considered safe in adults and children when used appropriately at recommended doses. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has established a Reference Daily Intake (RDI) of 2.0 mg vitamin B6 for adults and children 4 or more years of age (21CFR101.9). RDIs are a set of dietary references for essential vitamins and minerals that are considered amounts sufficient to meet the daily requirements of healthy individuals. RDIs serve as the basis for calculating the percent daily value (%DV) amounts found on dietary supplement and food labels.
Pyridoxine hydrochloride is a form of vitamin B6 used in fortified foods and nutritional supplements. Pyridoxine hydrochloride is considered generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use as a direct food ingredient by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) (21CFR184.1676).
Pyridoxal 5’-phosphate (P5P) is the active coenzyme form of vitamin B6, involved in amino acid metabolism and numerous other enzymatic reactions in the human body. Pyridoxal 5’-phosphate is considered a particularly useful nutrient supplement, because all other forms of vitamin B6 must be converted to P5P in the liver before they are considered active. The P5P form of vitamin B6 is typically found in foods of animal origin, such as meats, dairy products and eggs. No adverse effects have been associated with high intake of vitamin B6 from food sources (1).This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
References
1. Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin B12, Pantothenic Acid, Biotin, and Choline. Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press, 2000.
Last updated March, 2009
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Vitamin C (as ascorbic acid, acerola extract [fruit], camu-camu extract [fruit])Vitamin C (as ascorbic acid, acerola extract [fruit], camu-camu extract [fruit])
Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, is an essential water-soluble vitamin found mainly in fruits and vegetables, particularly in citrus fruits such as oranges. Vitamin C functions as a reducing agent and thereby demonstrates potent antioxidant activity. Vitamin C deficiency can lead to the disease scurvy, which involves the deterioration of elastic tissue, demonstrating the important role of ascorbic acid in the synthesis of connective tissues such as collagen in bones (1). Dietary vitamin C is efficiently absorbed through the intestine.
Vitamin C is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) (21CFR182.8013). The U.S. FDA has established a Reference Daily Intake (RDI) of 60 mgs vitamin C for adults and children 4 or more years of age (21CFR101.9). RDIs are a set of dietary references for essential vitamins and minerals that are considered amounts sufficient to meet the daily requirements of healthy individuals. RDIs serve as the basis for calculating the percent daily value (%DV) amounts found on dietary supplement and food labels.
Acerola extract is obtained from the fruit of the small tree, Malpighia glabra or Malpighia punicifolia. Acerola is grown in tropical regions of the Americas. The fruit is known for being one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C and also contains vitamin A, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin and polyphenols, such as anthocyanins. Acerola fruit extract acts as an antioxidant, likely due to the presence of some of these nutrients (2). Most acerola fruit is processed into fruit products, such as jams, jellies and juices, or added to dietary supplements as a source of vitamin C (3).
Camu-camu extract is obtained from the fruit of the small tree, Myrciaria paraensis or Myrciaria dubia. Camu-camu grows in areas of the Amazon rainforest, and the fruit is eaten fresh or made into jam, jelly or wine (3). Camu-camu fruit is one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C, and it contains polyphenolic compounds called anthocyanins (4). These nutrients likely contribute to the fruit’s antioxidant activities (5).This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
References
1. Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium, and Carotenoids. Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press, 2000.
2. Natural Standard Database. www.naturalstandard.com. 2009.
3. Ensminger AH, Ensminger ME, Konlande JE, Robson JRK. The Concise Encyclopedia of Foods and Nutrition. Boca Raton, Florida: CRC Press, 1995.
4. Zanatta CF, Cuevas E, Bobbio FO, Winterhalter P, Mercadante AZ. Determination of anthocyanins from camu-camu (Myrciaria dubia) by HPLC-PDA, HPLC-MS, and NMR. J Agric Food Chem 2005;53:9531-5.
5. Inoue T, Komoda H, Uchida T, Node K. Tropical fruit camu-camu (Myrciaria dubia) has anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. J Cardiol. 2008;52:127-32.
Last updated March, 2009
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Vitamin E (as d-alpha-tocopheryl acetate, mixed d-alpha-, d-beta-, d-delta-, and d-gamma-tocopherols and mixed tocotrienols)Vitamin E (as d-alpha-tocopheryl acetate, mixed d-alpha-, d-beta-, d-delta-, and d-gamma-tocopherols and mixed tocotrienols)
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin with antioxidant properties. Natural vitamin E exists in eight different forms: alpha, beta, gamma, and delta tocopherol; and alpha, beta, gamma, and delta tocotrienol. Alpha-tocopherol is the most active form in humans. In foods, vitamin E exists primarily as mixed tocopherols. Foods that contain vitamin E include: eggs, fortified cereals, fruit, green leafy vegetables, meat, nuts/nut oils, poultry, vegetable oils and whole grains. Vitamin E supplements are available in natural or synthetic forms.While the precise rate of vitamin E absorption is not known with certainty, it is believed to be variable and low. Reported rates of absorption of vitamin E following intake with food have varied from as high as 51%-86% to as low as 21%-29% (1). All forms of vitamin E, including all of the tocopherol and tocotrienol homologues, are absorbed through the intestine in a similar manner.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has established a Reference Daily Intake (RDI) of 30 international units (IUs) vitamin E for adults and children 4 or more years of age (21CFR101.9). RDIs are a set of dietary references for essential vitamins and minerals that are considered amounts sufficient to meet the daily requirements of healthy individuals. RDIs serve as the basis for calculating the percent daily value (%DV) amounts found on dietary supplement and food labels.
D-alpha-tocopheryl acetate, or D-alpha tocopherol acetate,is an organic compound derived from vegetable oils that acts as a source of vitamin E. The natural form, d-alpha-tocopheryl acetate, is more bioavailable than the synthetic form, dl-alpha-tocopheryl acetate. Alpha-tocopheryl acetate is converted to alpha-tocopherol in the intestine before being absorbed (2). Alpha-tocopherol, like other forms of vitamin E, demonstrates antioxidant activity (3). Alpha-tocopherol acetate is considered generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in foods (4).
Tocopherols and tocotrienols are organic compounds collectively known as vitamin E. They naturally exist as a mixture of d-alpha-, d-beta-, d-gamma- and d-delta-isoforms, each having antioxidant activities (5). Tocopherols are present in many foods, such as vegetable oils, nuts and grains. They are considered generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in foods (21CFR182.3890) (4). Tocotrienols are present in foods such as cereal grains and cooking oils (i.e. palm, safflower, peanut and olive). Although tocotrienols are not as well studied compared to other forms of vitamin E, such as alpha-tocopherol, the safety of consumption of all forms of vitamin E is considered comparable.This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
References
1. Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium, and Carotenoids. Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press, 2000.
2. Acuff RV, Thedford SS, Hidiroglou NN, Papas AM, Odom TA, Jr. Relative bioavailability of RRR- and all-rac-alpha-tocopheryl acetate in humans: studies using deuterated compounds. Am J Clin Nutr 1994;60:397-402.
3. Handbook of Pharmaceutical Excipients. Washington, DC: Pharmaceutical Press and American Pharmacists Assn, 2006.
4. Food and Drug Administration. EAFUS: A Food Additive Database. http://www.foodsafety.gov/~dms/eafus.html. 10-17-2008. 12-4-2008.
5. Yoshida Y, Saito Y, Jones LS, Shigeri Y. Chemical reactivities and physical effects in comparison between tocopherols and tocotrienols: physiological significance and prospects as antioxidants. J Biosci Bioeng. 2007;104:439-45.
Last updated April, 2009
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Formulation Ingredients
GelatinGelatin
Gelatin is a protein derived from animal collagen, usually from cow or pig skin and bones. It is commonly used as a gelling agent in foods and can be used to form hard or soft gelatin capsules for oral products (1). Gelatin is approved for use as a food additive by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) (2).
This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
• SPORT™ capsules
References
1. Handbook of Pharmaceutical Excipients. Washington, DC: Pharmaceutical Press and American Pharmacists Assn, 2006.
2. Food and Drug Administration. EAFUS: A Food Additive Database. http://www.foodsafety.gov/~dms/eafus.html. 10-17-2008. 12-4-2008.Last updated April, 2013
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Magnesium stearateMagnesium stearate
Magnesium stearate, a salt of stearic acid, is widely used in cosmetics, foods, and capsules as a lubricating agent. In dietary supplements it may contain a mixture of magnesium salts of different fatty acids.
Magnesium stearate is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as generally recognized as safe (GRAS) (21CFR184.1440) and is generally regarded as being nontoxic following oral administration. Oral consumption of large quantities may produce a laxative effect or cause mucosal irritation (1).This ingredient can be found in the following products:
References
• CardioBALANCE® capsules
• Catalyst™ caplets
• FiberSlim™ capsules
• MannaCLEANSE™ caplets
• Optimal Support Packets
• PhytoMatrix® caplets
• PLUS™ caplets
• SPORT™ capsules
References
1. Handbook of Pharmaceutical Excipients. Gurnee, IL: Pharmaceutical Press, 2006.
Last updated April, 2013
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* This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
