Research Library
The content on this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your health routine or taking new supplements.
Clean Greens
Our Clean Greens powder is a nutrient-packed blend, rich in antioxidants and organic greens to help promote a healthy digestive tract and reduce cholesterol. Enhanced with premium fibre, it helps to support regular bowel movements and relieve constipation. Fibre is an important component of a healthy diet and is found in plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. It helps to promote digestive health by keeping the digestive system regular and preventing constipation. Fibre also helps to control blood sugar levels, reduce cholesterol levels, and lower the risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease. Adults should aim to consume 25-30 grams of fibre per day from a variety of sources to maintain optimal health. Digestion PHGG (Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum) has prebiotic effects, promoting the production of short-chain fatty acids, which are beneficial for gut health. It also helps lower hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol), supporting better metabolic health. PHGG improves bowel habits by preventing constipation and may also help reduce or treat diarrhea, as demonstrated in several clinical studies (Yasukawa et al., 2019). Additionally, studies have shown that taking 6g/day of PHGG can reduce bloating and gas symptoms in IBS patients and improve constipation-predominant IBS symptoms. Green bananas are a healthy source of resistant starch, particularly type 3 resistant starch. This starch acts like dietary fibre, helping reduce constipation. The resistant starch in green bananas also serves as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and enhancing gut health through fermentation in the large intestine, leading to the production of short-chain fatty acids like butyrate. Green banana consumption may also help with conditions like obesity, high cholesterol (dyslipidemia), and diabetes. Bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme found in pineapple, helps break down proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids, supporting better digestion, especially of protein-rich foods. This enzyme can be particularly beneficial for those with digestive disorders such as bloating, indigestion, or food intolerances (Kansakar et al., 2024). References Yasukawa, Z., Inoue, R., Ozeki, M., Okubo, T., Takagi, T., Honda, A., & Naito, Y. (2019). Effect of Repeated Consumption of Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum on Fecal Characteristics and Gut Microbiota: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, and Parallel-Group Clinical Trial. Nutrients, 11(9), 2170. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11092170 Kansakar, Urna, Valentina Trimarco, Maria V. Manzi, Edoardo Cervi, Pasquale Mone, and Gaetano Santulli. (2024). "Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Bromelain: Applications, Benefits, and Mechanisms" Nutrients 16, no. 13: 2060. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16132060 Falcomer AL, Riquette RFR, de Lima BR, Ginani VC, Zandonadi RP. (2019). "Health Benefits of Green Banana Consumption: A Systematic Review." Nutrients. 2019 May 29;11(6):1222. doi: 10.3390/nu11061222. PMID: 31146437; PMCID: PMC6627159.
Learn moreChromium MAX
Chromium is an essential trace mineral that plays a critical role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It supports insulin production and helps regulate blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity and enhancing the function of insulin receptor sites. This allows insulin to attach more effectively to cells, improving glucose uptake and overall metabolic efficiency. By helping insulin work more efficiently, chromium may contribute to better blood sugar control, making it especially valuable for individuals concerned with managing glucose levels and preventing insulin resistance. Fitness Chromium helps to maintain cellular uptake and metabolism of glucose, which is essential for energy production and overall metabolic function. (Wang & Cefalu 2010). In a large study of over 62,000 adults, the likelihood of having diabetes was 27% lower in those who took dietary supplements containing chromium (McIver et al. 2015). In non-diabetics, chromium has also been shown to lower total cholesterol by 10%, which translates to a 20% reduction in heart attack or stroke risk (Jamilian & Asemi 2015). Chromium has been shown to reduce appetite and curb sugar cravings (Docherty et al. 2005). References Wang, Z. Q., & Cefalu, W. T. 2010. "Current concepts about chromium supplementation in type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance". Current diabetes reports, 10(2), 145–151. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11892-010-0097-3 McIver, D. J., Grizales, A. M., Brownstein, J. S., & Goldfine, A. B. 2015. "Risk of Type 2 Diabetes Is Lower in US Adults Taking Chromium-Containing Supplements."The Journal of nutrition, 145(12), 2675–2682. https://doi.org/10.3945/jn.115.214569 Jamilian M, Asemi Z. 2015 "Chromium Supplementation and the Effects on Metabolic Status in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial." Ann Nutr Metab. 67(1):42-8. Docherty, John P. Md; Sack, David A. Md; Roffman, Mark Phd; Finch, Manley; Komorowski, James R. Ms. 2005. "A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Exploratory Trial of Chromium Picolinate in Atypical Depression: Effect on Carbohydrate Craving". Journal of Psychiatric Practice 11(5):p 302-314
Learn moreCalcium Plus D3
Calcium is an essential mineral required for the proper functioning of a number of processes in the body e.g. regulating enzymes, muscle contraction like the regulation of our heartbeat, nerve conduction, heart function, hormone release, blood coagulation, energy production and immune function (Braun & Cohen 2015, 122). Calcium plays a key role in muscle contraction and is essential for building strong bones. Almost 99% of the body’s calcium is found in the bones. Our skeletons are a reserve of calcium to draw upon to maintain a normal level of calcium in the body, as we can not produce it. Muscle Function Calcium’s role in muscle contraction is very important as it helps to initiate muscle contraction, specifically the regulation of heart muscle contractions (Braun & Cohen 2015, 122). A cause of muscle fatigue during exercise is the impaired activity of calcium in muscle cells (Finsterer 2012). Studies support a low calcium intake with a significant decrease in bone mineral density (Vannucci et al. 2018). Inside the muscle, calcium facilitates the interaction between actin and myosin, when contracting (NASM 2014). Bone Health Calcium is a major structural element of bone and teeth, this is where skeletal mineralisation takes place (Vannucci et al. 2018). A lack of calcium can lead to impaired bone strength making the bone ductile and weak (Ross et al. 2011). Studies support supplementation with calcium and vitamin D to reduce bone loss and the incidence of fractures (Dawson-Hughes et al. 1997). References Braun, L., and Cohen,Marc. 2015. Herbs & Natural Supplements An Evidence-based guide Volume 2. 4th ed. Australia: Elsevier. Vannucci, L., Fossi, C.,Brandi, LM. 2018. “Calcium Intake in Bone Health: A Focus on Calcium-Rich Mineral Waters.” Nutrients, 10. 12 (Dec): 1930. 10.3390/nu10121930 Dawson-Hughes, B., Harris, SS., Krall, EA., Dallal, GE. 1997. “Effect of calcium and vitamin D supplementation on bone density in men and women 65 years of age or older.” The New England Journal of Medicine, 337. 10 (Sep): 670-6. 10.1056/NEJM199709043371003 Ross, AC., Taylor, CL., Yaktine, Al. 2011. Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium and Vitamin D. Washington DC: National Academies Press US. NASM. 2014. Calcium: For strong bones, muscle function, and so much more! https://blog.nasm.org/nutrition/calcium-strong-bones-muscle-function-much/ Finsterer, J. 2012. “Biomarkers of peripheral muscle fatigue during exercise.” BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 13. 218. https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2474-13-218
Learn moreBiotin
Biotin, a water soluble vitamin, is an essential cofactor to enzymes in the metabolism of fatty acids, glucose and amino acids and plays a key role in gene expression and cell signalling. Also known as vitamin B7 or vitamin H, we only need a small amount of it daily, in which we can get through a balanced diet. Additionally, biotin plays a role in gene expression and cell signalling. Hair Health Biotin is involved in the production of keratin, a structural protein that makes up the hair (Patel et al. 2017). Studies suggest the use of biotin supplementation to improve hair health and growth (Patel et al. 2017). Signs of biotin deficiency is hair loss (Linus Pauling 2020). Nail Health Biotin assists with nail plate thickness and reduced nail splitting, support strong and healthy nails (Thorne Research 2007). Biotin appears to improve brittle nails (Thorne Research 2007). Skin Health Biotin plays a key role in enzymes for fatty acid synthesis (Zempleni et al. 2009). Skin cells depend on fatty acids to help produce the skin's natural oil barrier, providing protection from the sun and environmental toxins. A study supports individuals who used more than 100mcg of biotin per day had dramatic improvements in rash and dermatitis skin problems (Mock et al. 1985). Immune System Studies have shown that biotin deficiency impacts the functions of immune cells (Agrawal et al. 2016). A deficiency may enhance the inflammatory response (Agrawal et al. 2016). References Braun, L., and Cohen, Marc. 2015. Herbs & Natural Supplements An Evidence-based guide Volume 2. 4th ed. Australia: Elsevier. National Institutes of Health (NIH). 2019. “Health Information Biotin.” https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Biotin-HealthProfessional/ Linus Pauling Institute - Micronutrient Information. 2019. Biotin. https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/vitamins/biotin Agrawal, S., Agrawal, A. Said, HM. 2016. “Biotin deficiency enhances the inflammatory response of human dendritic cells.” American Journal of Physiology - Cell Physiology, 311. 3 (Sep): 386-39. 10.1152/ajpcell.00141.2016 Thorne Research. 2007. “Biotin”. Alternative Medicine Review, 12. 1: 73-78. http://www.altmedrev.com/archive/publications/12/1/73.pdf Patel, DP., Swink, SM., Castelo-Soccio, L. 2017. “A Review of the Use of Biotin for Hair Loss”. Skin Appendage Disorders, 3. 3 (Aug): 166-169. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5582478/ Mock, DM., Baswell, DL., Baker, H., Holman, RT., Sweetman, L. 1985. “Biotin deficiency parenteral alimentation: Diagnosis, metabolic repercussions and treatment.” The Journal of Pediatrics, 106: 762-9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3923177 Zempleni, J., Wijeratne, SSK., Hassan, YI. 2009. “Biotin”. BioFactors, 35. 1 (Jan): 36-46. doi:10.1002/biof.8
Learn moreAstaxanthin
Astaxanthin is a potent natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that acts to reduce free radicals formed in the body, supports collagen formation and elasticity for healthy skin and helps to maintain endurance and performance when exercising. This potent naturally occurring carotenoid is found in nature in the organisms that eat it, giving salmon, trout and shrimp their reddish colour. Extensive research supports the therapeutic benefits of Astaxanthin due to its unique structure and antioxidant properties shown to support skin and eye health as well as athletic performance. Skin Health Astaxanthin may exert benefits on skin homeostasis including photoprotective, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects (Davinelli et al. 2018). Astaxanthin helps to reduce oxidative damage of the skin via increased antioxidant activity and may protect against collagen and elastin degradation in the dermal layer of the skin (Davinelli et al. 2018). Research suggests Astaxanthin may inhibit age-related skin deterioration and improve skin integrity and elasticity (Tominaga et al. 2017). Astaxanthin may improve dermatitis (skin itching and irritation) via the regulation of inflammatory effects and the expression of inflammatory cytokines (Yoshihisa et al. 2016). Eye Health Studies suggest Astaxanthin may directly address the main pathogenic factors underlying ocular diseases such as cumulative oxidative stress and chronic subclinical inflammation (Giannaccare et al. 2020). A growing body of evidence suggests the beneficial pleiotropic effects of astaxanthin in the prevention of ocular disease (Giannaccare et al. 2020). Astaxanthin’s antioxidant effects help to promote and protect the health of the eyes, specifically those that have been attributed to cellular oxidative damage (Mark & Tim-Tak, 1994). Clinical trials have investigated the effects of astaxanthin in the prevention and treatment of eye diseases as well as maintaining healthy eye function. The benefits range from reducing eye strain to having a potential role in the treatment of age-related macular degeneration as it has the ability to cross the blood-retinal brain barrier and accumulate in the retina (Mark & Tim-Tak, 1994). Astaxanthin has shown to improve pupillary constriction, improve symptoms of blurred vision and eye strain (Kajita et al. 2009). Fitness, Performance & Cognition Research suggests that astaxanthin supplementation could potentially improve indices of exercise metabolism, performance and recovery because of its potent antioxidant capacity (Brown et al. 2017). Research indicates the effectiveness of astaxanthin on the promotion of skeletal muscle performance and prevention of muscle atrophy and the potential mechanisms underlying these effects (Wong et al. 2020). Results from current research are beginning to suggest neuroprotective properties including anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic and antioxidant effects as well as the potential to maintain neural plasticity and cognitive function in age and neurodegeneration (Grimmig et al. 2017). References Giannaccare, G., Pellegrini, M., Senni, C., Bernabei, F., Scorcia, V., & Cicero, A. 2020. “Clinical Applications of Astaxanthin in the Treatment of Ocular Diseases: Emerging Insights”. Marine drugs, 18(5): 239. https://doi.org/10.3390/md18050239 Mark, TSO., Tim-Tak, LAM. 1994. “Method of retarding and ameliorating central nervous system and eye damage”. United States Patent. https://europepmc.org/article/PAT/US5527533 Kajita, M., Tsukahara, H., Kato, M., 2009. “The effects of a dietary supplement containing astaxanthin on the accommodation function of the eye in middle-aged and older people”. Med Consult New Remedies, 46(3):89-93. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/260320779 Davinelli, S., Nielsen, M. E., & Scapagnini, G. 2018. “Astaxanthin in Skin Health, Repair, and Disease: A Comprehensive Review”. Nutrients, 10(4): 522. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10040522 Tominaga, K., Hongo, N., Fujishita, M., Takahashi, Y., & Adachi, Y. 2017. “Protective effects of astaxanthin on skin deterioration”. Journal of clinical biochemistry and nutrition, 61(1), 33–39. https://doi.org/10.3164/jcbn.17-35 Yoshihisa, Y., Andoh, T., Matsunaga, K., Rehman, M. U., Maoka, T., & Shimizu, T. 2016. “Efficacy of Astaxanthin for the Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis in a Murine Model”. PloS one, 11(3), e0152288. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0152288 Brown, D. R., Gough, L. A., Deb, S. K., Sparks, S. A., & McNaughton, L. R. 2018. “Astaxanthin in Exercise Metabolism, Performance and Recovery: A Review”. Frontiers in nutrition, 4, 76. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2017.00076 Wong, S. K., Ima-Nirwana, S., Chin, K.Y. 2020. “Effects of astaxanthin on the protection of muscle health (Review)”. Experimental and therapeutic medicine, 20(4), 2941–2952. https://doi.org/10.3892/etm.2020.9075 Grimmig, B., Kim, S. H., Nash, K., Bickford, P. C., & Douglas Shytle, R. 2017. “Neuroprotective mechanisms of astaxanthin: a potential therapeutic role in preserving cognitive function in age and neurodegeneration”. GeroScience, 39(1), 19–32. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11357-017-9958-x
Learn moreAshwagandha
The name ashwagandha comes from Indian Sanskrit meaning ‘horse like smell’, not only referring to the smell of the herb but also its strengthening and aphrodisiac qualities. In Ayurvedic medicine, ashwagandha is classified as ‘rasayana’ (rejuvenation) and is used to encourage overall health and wellbeing. Sleep Support Ashwagandha’s chemical component, the alkaloids are considered to be sedative and used as a treatment for insomnia. (Kumar & Kalonia 2007). Ashwagandha root extract is a natural compound with sleep-inducing potential, well tolerated and has shown to improve sleep quality and sleep onset latency (Langade et al. 2019). Stress Ashwagandha safely and effectively improves an individual's resistance towards stress and thereby improves self-assessed quality of life (Chandrasekhar et al. 2012). Ashwagandha is shown to reduce the negative effects of chronic stress (Bhattacharya & Muruganandam 2003). Current findings suggest that ashwagandha's stress-relieving effects may occur via its moderating effect on the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis (Lopresti et al. 2019). Brain Health Ashwagandha root extract (300mg, twice daily) has been shown to improve cognitive function (Choudhary et al. 2017). After 8 weeks of treatment, patients taking 300mg of ashwagandha root extract, twice daily, demonstrated significant improvements in immediate and general memory, information-processing speed, executive function, and attention compared to the placebo group (Choudhary et al. 2017). Men’s Health A review of four studies concluded that ashwagandha significantly increased sperm concentration, semen volume, and sperm motility in men with low sperm count (Lopresti et al. 2019). Ashwagandha was also associated with an 18% increase in DHEA-S levels. DHEA is important for men because it acts as a precursor to testosterone, supporting reproductive health, muscle strength, bone density, mood stability, and overall well-being (Lopresti et al. 2019). Women’s Health Research has shown that ashwagandha can improve shown to improve sexual function in healthy women (Mikulska et al. 2023). A pilot study demonstrated improved arousal, lubrication, and orgasms in participants who took 300mg of ashwagandha root extract, twice daily, over an 8-week period (Mikulska et al. 2023). References Braun, L., and Cohen,Marc. 2015. Herbs & Natural Supplements An Evidence-based guide Volume 2. 4th ed. Australia: Elsevier. Chandrasekhar, K., Kapoor, J., Anishetty, S. 2012. “A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults.” Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, 34. 3: 255-62. https://doi.org/10.4103/0253-7176.106022 Langade, D., Kanchi, S., Salve, J., Debnath, K., Ambegaokar, D. 2019. “Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Insomnia and Anxiety: A double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Study.” Cureus, 11. 9: 5797. 10.7759/cureus.5797 Bhattacharya SK., Muruganandam AV. 2003. “Adaptogenic activity of Withania somnifera: an experimental study using a rat model for chronic stress.” Pharmacol Biochemistry and Behaviour, 75. 3: 547-555. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0091305703001102?via%3Dihub Choudhary, D, Bhattacharyya, S, and Bose, S. 2017 "Efficacy and safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) root extract in improving memory and cognitive functions" J Diet Suppl. 14:599–612. doi: 10.1080/19390211.2017.1284970 Lopresti, A. L., Drummond, P. D., & Smith, S. J. 2019. "A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study Examining the Hormonal and Vitality Effects of Ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera) in Aging, Overweight Males." American journal of men's health, 13(2), 1557988319835985. https://doi.org/10.1177/1557988319835985 Mikulska, P., Malinowska, M., Ignacyk, M., Szustowski, P., Nowak, J., Pesta, K., Szeląg, M., Szklanny, D., Judasz, E., Kaczmarek, G., Ejiohuo, O. P., Paczkowska-Walendowska, M., Gościniak, A., & Cielecka-Piontek, J. 2023. "Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)-Current Research on the Health-Promoting Activities: A Narrative Review." Pharmaceutics, 15(4), 1057. https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15041057
Learn moreAdaptogenic Mushrooms
Medicinal mushrooms have been used for centuries in traditional medicine, particularly in Eastern cultures like Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. They are known for their ability to help the body adapt to stress, support resilience, and enhance overall health. These mushrooms contain bioactive compounds that can also boost the immune system, improve mental clarity, and provide energy. To be considered an adaptogen, a substance must meet three key criteria. Firstly, it must be safe for regular consumption. Secondly, it must help the body cope with both mental and physical stress, enhancing resilience. Lastly, adaptogens work to maintain balance and calmness within the body, promoting homeostasis. Stress and Immunity Ganoderma lucidum, more commonly know as Reishi, is recognised as the most potent adaptogen present in nature, for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulatory and anticancer activities. Reishi supports adrenal gland function, which secretes cortisol, a hormone that aids the body in managing stress. Reishi mushroom contains several beneficial compounds, such as triterpenoids, steroids, and polysaccharides, which contribute to boosting the immune system, reducing inflammation, and improving overall well-being. One specific compound, ganoderic acid DM, has unique effects. It influences processes like autophagy (a cellular clean-up mechanism) and apoptosis (programmed cell death), both of which are essential for maintaining healthy cells and eliminating harmful ones, such as cancer cells. Additionally, ganoderic acid DM can stimulate natural killer cells, a type of immune cell that directly attacks and destroys tumours, boosting the body’s overall ability to fight cancer. Research shows that Maitake can activate important immune cells, such as macrophages, natural killer (NK) cells, and cytotoxic T cells, which are critical for defending the body and directly destroying tumour cells. Additionally, the mushroom’s glucans stimulate the production of cytokines like interleukin-1 and interleukin-2, which are essential for coordinating immune responses and enhancing the body’s natural defenses. Shiitake, Lentinula edodes, mushrooms improve immune function, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthier balance of immune system signals. Consuming shiitake mushrooms for four weeks enhanced immune function by increasing the activity of key immune cells and improving gut immunity through higher secretory IgA (sIgA) levels. It also reduced inflammation, as shown by lower C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and a healthier balance of cytokines supporting immune regulation and reduced inflammatory responses. References Abate M, Pepe G, Randino R, et al. Ganoderma lucidum Ethanol Extracts Enhance Re-Epithelialization and Prevent Keratinocytes from Free-Radical Injury. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2020;13(9):224. Published 2020 Aug 29. doi:10.3390/ph13090224 Chengyuan Liang, Danni Tian, Yuzhi Liu, Han Li, Jialiang Zhu, Min Li, Minhang Xin, Juan Xia. (2019). "Review of the molecular mechanisms of Ganoderma lucidum triterpenoids: Ganoderic acids A, C2, D, F, DM, X and Y", European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, Volume 174, Pages 130-141, ISSN 0223-5234, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.04.039 Camilleri E, Blundell R, Baral B, Karpiński TM, Aruci E, Atrooz OM. (2024). "Unveiling the full spectrum of maitake mushrooms: A comprehensive review of their medicinal, therapeutic, nutraceutical, and cosmetic potential." Heliyon. 10(9):e30254. Published 2024 Apr 26. doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30254 Dai, Xiaoshuang, Stanilka, Joy M., Rowe, Cheryl A., Esteves, Elizabethe A., Nieves, Carmelo Jr., Spaiser, Samuel J. (2015). "Consuming Lentinula edodes (Shiitake) mushrooms daily improves human immunity: A randomized dietary intervention in healthy young adults." Journal of the American College of Nutrition, 34(6), 478–487. https://doi.org/10.1080/07315724.2014.950391 Liao LY, He YF, Li L, Meng H, Dong YM, Yi F, Xiao PG. (2018). “A preliminary review of studies on adaptogens: comparison of their bioactivity in TCM with that of ginseng-like herbs used worldwide.” Chin Med. Nov 16;13:57. doi: 10.1186/s13020-018-0214-9. PMID: 30479654; PMCID: PMC6240259.
Learn moreActivated Curcumin
Curcumin is the most active constituent in turmeric and is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This golden root is a cousin to ginger and has a long history of traditional use in Chinese and Indian (Ayurvedic) medicine. Curcumin acts as a master switch of inflammation literally blocking and interfering with the inflammatory response pathways in the body and offering a protective effect. Joint Health Curcumin has been found to be effective in improving joint swelling and pain (Chandran & Goel 2012). Due to curcumins anti-inflammatory properties, it has shown to reduce joint aches and pain (Gupta et al. 2013). Reduces joint pain in patients with osteoarthritis via anti-inflammatory mechanisms (Chin 2016). Curcumin has shown to have anti-arthritic effects on chronic inflammatory joint conditions (Hewlings & Kalman 2017). Anti-inflammatory Strong evidence confirms the anti-inflammatory activity of curcumin and its potency to target inflammatory diseases (Braun & Cohen 2015, 1010). Curcumin acts as a master switch of inflammation on pro-inflammatory enzymes and transcription factors (Jurenka 2009). Curcumin has been shown to supress inflammation through many mechanisms (Hewlings & Kalman 2017). Antioxidant Studies confirm the potent antioxidant activity curcumin shows. It exerts direct free radical scavenging activity and enhances antioxidant activity (Braun & Cohen 2015, 1010). Curcumin improves systemic markers of oxidative stress (Hewlings & Kalman 2017). Curcumins antioxidant activity is more potent than that of ascorbic acid or resveratrol and can increase activities of other antioxidants like superoxide dismutase (SOD) (Hewlings & Kalman 2017). Digestion & Liver Health Curcumin has been found to modulate gut microbiota, helping to prevent gut dysbiosis and promoting overall digestive health (Zhu & He 2024). Curcumin has been shown to directly regulate gut microbiota by increasing beneficial bacteria like bifidobacteria, lactobacilli, and butyrate producers, while reducing harmful microbes, which may explain its immune-modulating, antihyperlipidemic, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects (Zam 2018). For liver health, curcumin has been studied for its hepatoprotective properties, which include its ability to reduce liver inflammation, combat oxidative stress, and support liver function by enhancing detoxification pathways. Research has shown that curcumin helps protect liver cells from damage caused by toxins and improves overall liver function (Abe et al. 1999). References Braun, L., and Cohen,Marc. 2015. Herbs & Natural Supplements An Evidence-based guide Volume 2. 4th ed. Australia: Elsevier. Jurenka, JS. 2009. “Anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin, a major constituent of Curcuma longa: a review of preclinical and clinical research.” Alternative medicine review: A journal of clinical therapeutic 14. 2 (Jun): 41-53. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19594223 Linus Pauling Institute. 2019. Micronutrient Information Center Curcumin. https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/dietary-factors/phytochemicals/curcumin Chandran, B., Goel, A. 2012. “A randomized, pilot study to assess the efficacy and safety of curcumin in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis.” Phytotherapy Research: PTR, 26. 11 (Nov): 1719-25. 10.1002/ptr.4639 Gupta, SC., Patchva, S., Aggarwal, BB. 2013. “Therapeutic Roles of Curcumin: Lessons learned from clinical trials.” The American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists, 15. 1 (Jan): 195-218. 10.1208/s12248-012-9432-8 Chin, KY. 2016. “The spice for joint inflammation: anti-inflammatory role of curcumin in treating osteoarthritis.” Drug Design, Development and Therapy. 10: (3029-3042). 10.2147/DDDT.S117432 Hewlings, SJ., Kalman, DS. 2017. “Curcumin: A Review of It’s Effects on Human Health.” Foods, 6. 10 (Oct): 92. doi:10.3390/foods6100092 Zhu, Junwen, and He, Lan. 2024. "The Modulatory Effects of Curcumin on the Gut Microbiota: A Potential Strategy for Disease Treatment and Health Promotion" Microorganisms 12, no. 4: 642. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12040642 Abe Y, Hashimoto S, Horie T 1999. "Curcumin inhibition of inflammatory cytokine production by human peripheral blood monocytes and alveolar macrophages." Pharmacol Res 39(1):41–47. https://doi.org/10.1006/phrs.1998.0404 Zam W. 2018. Gut Microbiota as a Prospective Therapeutic Target for Curcumin: A Review of Mutual Influence. Journal of nutrition and metabolism, 1367984. https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/1367984
Learn moreActivated B Complex
The B group vitamins are essential for your body to function optimally, with each individual B vitamin playing a unique role in the body. B group vitamins help release energy from nutrients like carbohydrates, fats and protein, assist with brain function, stress support and the immune system function. Most of these vitamins can not be stored in the body so we must consume them through a balanced wholefood diet. Stress B vitamins help maintain and support a healthy nervous system assisting with stress management and mood (Long & Benton 2013). B5 is used with other B vitamins during times of stress to imporve the body’s stress response and restore nutrient levels (Braun & Cohen 2015, 1074). Energy Riboflavin is needed in a number of reactions involved in energy production and metabolic pathways along with the metabolism of other vitamins and nutrients. It assists in the release of energy from nutrient in all body cells (Whitney et al. 2014. 306). B vitamins, in general, are key cofactors for the enzymes involved in energy-producing metabolic pathways for carbohydrates, fats and protein (Whitney et al. 2014, 302). B1, B2, B5, B6 play a role in cellular energy production. B vitamins collectively function as coenzymes involved in energy production (Braun & Cohen 2015, 1054). B vitamins are involved in energy storage and release (Braun & Cohen 2015, 1071). Immune System Vitamin B deficiency may affect body immune system processes (Whitney et al. 2014, 326). B12 is an immunomodulator for cellular immunity (Braun & Cohen 2015, 1093). Nervous System Folate is essential for brain development and function (Linus Pauling Institute 2020). B12 is part of the synthesis of protein structures in nerve cells (Braun & Cohen 2015, 1093). Research supports the link between brain atrophy, cognitive ability and vitamin B levels, with positive results with individuals supplementing with B vitamins (Stough et al. 2014). References Braun, L., and Cohen,Marc. 2015. Herbs & Natural Supplements An Evidence-based guide Volume 2. 4th ed. Australia: Elsevier. Whitney, E., Rolfes, SR., Crowe, T., Cameron-Smith, D., Walsh, A. 2014. Understanding Nutiriton Australia and New Zealand Edition. 2nd ed. Australia: Cengage Learning Australia Pty Limited. Linus Pauling Institute - Micronutrient Information. 2019. Folate. https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/vitamins/folate Stough, C., Simpson, T., Lomas, J., MyPhee, G., Bilings, C., Myers, S., Oliver, C., Downey, LA. 2014. “Reducing occupational stress with a B-vitamin focused intervention: a randomized clinical trial: study protocol.” Nutrition Journal, 13. 122. https://nutritionj.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1475-2891-13-122 Kennedy, DO. 2016. “B Vitamins and the Brain: Mechanisms, Dose and Efficacy - A Review”. Nutrients, 8. 2 (Feb). 10.3390/nu8020068 Long, SJ., Benton, D. 2013. “Effects of Vitamin and Mineral Supplementation On Stress and Milk Psychiatric Symptoms, and Mood in Non-clinical Samples: A Meta-Analysis”. Psychosomatic Medicine, 75. 2 (feb): 144-153. https://insights.ovid.com/article/00006842-201302000-00007
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