Formulated by World Renowned Nutrition Expert, Dr. Andreas Papas
Product Highlights
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An optimized, well balanced, wide spectrum combination of important antioxidants and nutrients designed to enhance the body's antioxidant system and free radical fighting capabilities
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Contains a research-based synergistic blend of antioxidant vitamins, minerals and co-factors
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Provides full spectrum vitamin E, natural carotenoids, vitamins A and C, CoQ10 and alpha lipoic acid
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Additionally provides essential minerals and B vitamins for enhanced effects
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Provides a broad specturm attack on the free radicals that can contribute to accelerated aging
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Made in the USA in an FDA inspected facility to meet the stringent standards of US Pharmacopeia (USP) for quality, purity, potency and disintegration
Product Overview
Antioxidant Factor provides an optimized, well balanced, wide spectrum of important antioxidants and nutrients. It is designed to enhance the body's antioxidant system to give you maximum free radical fighting capabilities. Antioxidant Factor provides what research has shown to be the optimum level of specific antioxidants to allow a synergistic effect within our bodies. It serves as the cornerstone of a sound supplementation program and supports optimal wellness including vision, immune, cardiovascular and neurological functions.
Antioxidants fight harmful free radicals that increase the risk of disease and accelerate aging. Antioxidant Factor provides a broad spectrum attack on free radicals, cleansing your body and providing optimal wellness and health. Antioxidant Factoris rich in full spectrum vitamin E, and includes all four tocopherols and four tocotrienols, in their natural, unesterified forms. It also provides natural carotenoids including lutein, lycopene and astaxanthin, as well as the important antioxidant vitamins A and C, CoQ10 and alpha lipoic acid. In addition, Antioxidant Factor provides synergistic essential minerals in chelated form including selenium, zinc, copper and manganese, and the essential B vitamins folic acid, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12.
The Supplements That Science Created
Since our founding in 1995, our philosophy has been centered around a "show us the proof" approach. Every single active ingredient contained in our formulas is backed by strong clinical evidence supporting its anti-aging properties and total body wellness attributes. More importantly, we use the exact doses and exact brands used in the research studies. Read about the research behind the formula to see exactly why we have carefully selected each ingredient. At Stop Aging Now, our research team reviews over 2,000 clinical studies per year, and our writers report on over 500 of them. These reports can be found in our News & Research section. No other company stays on top of the latest science as thoroughly as we do. You are guaranteed a clinically proven and truly effective dietary supplement. We also believe food plays a key role in longevity, which is why we create delicious Anti-Aging Recipes for our customers, to complement our superior supplements.
Quality You Can Trust
Equally important to potency and effectiveness, you get the reassuring comfort of Stop Aging Now's legendary quality. All of our premium products are made in the USA in a state-of-the art FDA inspected facility to meet the stringent standards of US Pharmacopeia (USP) for quality, purity, potency and disintegration. Most supplements are made to far lower standards. Additionally, and unfortunately, many companies keep their costs down by outsourcing production to third world countries where quality controls and regulations are virtually non-existent. Whether you take our premium products or those from another company, we strongly encourage to you to be sure to know where they are manufactured. If the bottle label doesn't say "Made in the USA", they are most likely not. Our manufacturing facilities are located in California, Illinois and Florida. We invite you to take a virtual tour of one of our facilities.
Our Customer's Success Stories Say It All!
Join the Stop Aging Now family! With over 1 million bottles sold, our success and growth is mostly due to word-of-mouth recommendations from our loyal customers. We highly recommend you read some of the hundreds of Testimonials we receive every year. By offering superior products, excellent customer service, free access to Certified Nutrition Experts and a 180-day "any reason" return policy, we keep our customers happy, order after order.
Note: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
This Formula Is Based on the Latest Anti-Aging Research
Every single active ingredient contained in this formula is backed by multiple clinical research studies. We have done our homework, and we are proud to detail below the clinical research data that supports the inclusion of every active ingredient in this formula.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is important to immune system function (Ann Nutr Metab. 2007;51(4):301-23. Epub 2007 Aug 28.) and for healthy skin, (Clin Interv Aging. 2006;1(4):327-48.) eyes (J Neurobiol. 2006 Jun;66(7):677-86.) and mucous membranes (J Nutr. 2004 Dec;134(12 Suppl):3453S-3457S.). It has also been shown to protect the body from the effects of pollution, (Environ Int. 2008 Feb 16. [Epub ahead of print]) and to slow the aging process. It is an important antioxidant that may help to prevent cancer formation (Expert Rev Mol Med. 2004 Nov 30;6(25):1-23.). People deficient in vitamin A may be prone to vision problems, such as night blindness and infections, especially by viruses. Deficiencies can be caused by either inadequate dietary intake, the inability of the body to convert beta-carotene from plant foods to vitamin A or absorption problems with this nutrient. (Eur J Nutr. 2007 Jul;46 Suppl 1:I1-20; Orphanet J Rare Dis. 2007 Nov 26;2:47. Ann Nutr Metab. 2007;51(4):301-23. Epub 2007 Aug 28. Biochemistry. 2007 Apr 17;46(15):4449-58. Epub 2007 Mar 23.)
There has been a lot of confusion surrounding the use of vitamin A supplements. While too much vitamin A can be toxic, it is an essential nutrient that needs to be a part of your daily regimen. What's the right dose? Toxic levels harm the liver and may promote birth defects. (Ann Hepatol. 2006 Oct-Dec;5(4):293-395. Eur J Nutr. 2007 Jul;46 Suppl 1:I1-20)
Currently, the Institute of Medicine has set the upper limit of retinol vitamin A at 10,000 IU daily — doses under that are not harmful. Vitamin A is an essential nutrient that acts as a strong antioxidant and protects the body from carcinogens.
While it has been reported that high vitamin A intake may promote osteoporosis, there has been opposing evidence that shows there is little or no connection. A very large study conducted in Iceland at University Hospital in Reykjavik published in 2003 found absolutely no connection between vitamin A and osteoporosis in women over 70. (Laeknabladid. 2003 July/August;89(7/8):585-593.) Another study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, published in December 2001, compared blood samples of retinol vitamin A with bone mineral density (a measure of bone strength) and found no association in nearly 5,800 American men and women. (J Bone Miner Res. 2001 Dec;16(12):2306-12.)
Beta-Carotene
Beta-carotene is a member of the carotenoid family, which also includes lutein, lycopene and zeaxanthin. Carotenoids are a class of highly pigmented fat-soluble antioxidants found in plants. While all have antioxidant power, beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A. Beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A in the liver. The conversion of beta-carotene to vitamin A is dependent on several biological factors, so each individual will have varying rates. According to Betty Burri, a biochemist of the USDA and the University of California at Davis, people convert from 0% to at best 11% of beta-carotene into vitamin A. (Am J Clin Nutr. 2002 May;75(5):900-7.)
Since not everyone converts sufficient amounts of beta-carotene into vitamin A, why should we take it in a multi-vitamin formula? Beta-carotene has a number of immune-enhancing properties. Originally, it was thought that these effects were due to beta-carotene being converted into vitamin A in the body. The benefits of taking beta-carotene far outreach just its conversion to vitamin A. (Am J Clin Nutr. 1994 Dec;60(6):969-72. Am J Clin Nutr. 1997 Mar;65(3):871-5.)
Population-based studies have clearly demonstrated the effectiveness of a diet high in beta-carotene in protecting against a variety of cancers. Research has indicated that in order for beta-carotene to be effective against cancer, it must be taken with other antioxidant nutrients such as vitamins E and C and selenium. It is thought that beta-carotene is more effective against cancer than vitamin A, due to its antioxidant and immune-stimulating properties. (Ann Intern Med. 2006 Sep 5;145(5):372-85. Epub 2006 Jul 31. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2004 Oct 18;(4):CD004183.)
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is vital for wound repair, healthy gums and immune function. As an antioxidant, vitamin C has been shown to be useful in the prevention of cancer, heart disease, Parkinson’s and other diseases associated with oxidative damage. Good evidence shows that high doses of vitamin C help reduce colds, as well as chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer,--and now, even weight gain! (Bratisl Lek Listy. 2007;108(9):417-21. Br J Nurs. 2007 Nov 22-Dec 12;16(21):1346-8, 1350-2. Br J Nutr. 2007 Oct;98 Suppl 1:S29-35. Nutr Rev. 2002 Oct;60(10 Pt 1):308-26. J Nutr. 2007 Oct;137(10):2171-84. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev. 2007 Apr-Jun;8(2):167-77.)
A University of Arizona study says vitamin C fights fat. Women of normal weight had 25-30% higher blood levels of vitamin C than overweight and obese women. Researchers concluded low levels of vitamin C increases your risk of being overweight. (J Nutr. 2007 Jul;137(7):1757-62.)
Here are other good reasons to take 500-1000 mg vitamin C a day:
Vitamin C reduces colds. Recent Japanese research found that downing 500 mg of vitamin C a day cut odds of getting 3 or more colds over 5 years by 66%. And taking 1,000 mg daily can cut colds short by a day, say experts at the Linus Pauling Institute. (Eur J Clin Nutr. 2006 Jan;60(1):9-17)
Vitamin C prevents heart disease. A study of more than 290,000 adults found that those who took more than 700 mg of vitamin C daily were 25% less apt to develop heart disease than non-vitamin C takers. (Am J Clin Nutr. 2004 Dec;80(6):1508-20.)
Vitamin C prevents strokes. Among a study done in Japan, those with highest blood levels of vitamin C were 29% less apt to have a stroke than those with the lowest levels of vitamin C. (Stroke. 2000 Oct;31(10):2287-94.)
Vitamin C improves arteries. Ability of arteries to relax and dilate to allow proper blood flow is essential to heart functioning. Taking 500 mg vitamin C daily has been shown to improved blood vessel dilation in those with atherosclerosis, angina, and congestive heart failure. (J Heart Lung Transplant. 2006 Apr;25(4):426-33. Angiology. 2004 Nov-Dec;55(6):653-60. Circulation. 2003 Sep 2;108(9):1059-63. Epub 2003 Aug 11. Hypertension. 2002 Dec;40(6):804-9.)
Vitamin C drops blood pressure. Taking 500 mg of vitamin C reduced systolic blood pressure 9% after a month in a group of people with high blood pressure. (Hypertension. 2002 Dec;40(6):804-9.)
Vitamin C reduces risk of cancer. Taking vitamin C supplements may reduce the risk of lung and breast cancer. Further, high doses of intravenous vitamin C may help treat cancer, says Dr. Mark Levine at the National Institutes of Health. Injections of 15,000 mg to 65,000 mg vitamin C twice a week for two to ten months resulted in complete remissions of various cancers. Note: High oral doses of vitamin C are not sufficient to treat cancer, but may play a role in preventing it. (CMAJ. 2006 Mar 28;174(7):937-42.)
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble essential nutrient that is most noted for its powerful antioxidant activity. It plays an important role in the prevention of cancer and cardiovascular disease. As well, it is vital in promoting normal blood clotting, aids in preventing cataracts, improves circulation and is necessary for tissue repair. It also promotes healthy hair and skin, slows aging and helps to prevent age spots. A deficiency of vitamin E may eventually result in damage to nerves and red blood cells. Infertility in both women and men has been linked with a deficiency in this vitamin. (Bartali, et al JAMA 2008;299(3):308-315.)
Despite some recent reports questioning the safety and effectiveness of vitamin E, experts declare vitamin E safe and beneficial. Dr. Maret Trabor, a noted worldwide expert on vitamin E safety at Oregon State University, says there is no evidence whatsoever in animals or humans that taking up to 800 IU vitamin E daily has caused any harm of any type. (Free Radic Biol Med. 2008 Mar 15;44(6):1203-8. Epub 2007 Dec 23.)
The confusion comes from an erroneous statistical meta-analysis that included only studies on elderly sick people, not healthy people, and excluded studies showing vitamin to be effective and safe, says Dr. Trabor.
Indeed, impeccable research thoroughly contradicts claims that vitamin E is unsafe and ineffective.
The largest, longest clinical study ever done on vitamin E found it utterly safe with dramatic lifesaving benefits. In the National Institutes of Health study, 40,000 healthy women, took 600 IU of vitamin E or a placebo every other day for ten years. During that entire time, no evidence of harm from vitamin E emerged. Instead, the vitamin E cut the women's odds of heart-related deaths, including cardiac arrest, by an unexpected 24%, reported Harvard investigator Julie Buring in March of 2005. (JAMA. 2005 Jul 6;294(1):56-65.)
Long-term use of vitamin E also cut risk of ALS (Lou Gehrig's) deaths by 62% and of prostate cancer by 50%. Vitamin E also helped fight Alzheimer's, cataracts, macular degeneration, infections (including colds and flu,) and low immunity in other current research. (Ann Neurol. 2005 Jan;57(1):104-10. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 1999 Oct;8(10):887-92. Mol Aspects Med. 2007 Oct-Dec;28(5-6):591-606. Epub 2007 Jan 11. Ann Epidemiol. 2000 Feb;10(2):125-34. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2004 Dec;1031:96-101)
Experts say vitamin E is not a magic bullet alone and they advise taking it together with several antioxidants, such as vitamin C, alpha lipoic acid and CoQ10, because they all work as a network to keep you healthy. However, worries that vitamin E is harmful at doses of 400-800 IU are groundless. The Institute of Medicine/National Academy of Sciences sets the upper safe limit for vitamin E at 1,500 IU daily.
Lutein
Lutein is a yellow pigment and antioxidant concentrated in leafy greens, mainly kale, collard greens, and spinach. As a supplement, lutein has been shown to help slow down and possibly repair damage from macular degeneration, an age-related cause of vision loss. Lutein also seems to reduce the odds of cataracts (opacity of the lens) by 20 to 50%, according to several studies. (Renzi LM and Johnson EJ. J Nutr Elder. 2007;26(3-4):139-57. Moeller SM et al. Arch Ophthalmol. 2008 Mar;126(3):354-64.)
Patients with macular degeneration who took high doses of the antioxidant lutein showed improvement, says researcher Stuart Richer, at the DVA Medical Center in Chicago. After a year, the density of the macular pigment increased on average 50% in the lutein takers. The daily dose was 10 mg. This is consistent with previous research. (Richer S et al. Optometry. 2004 Apr;75(4):216-30.)
Most remarkable, for the first time, patients experienced a slight improvement in actual vision, including visual acuity glare recovery and contrast sensitivity. Adding other antioxidants to lutein increased the benefits.
This shows that macular degeneration may be a "nutrition-responsive disorder," said researchers. Further, it may be possible that lutein can help prevent macular degeneration or slow down its progression from early to advanced stages. Or that it could even be reversed to a degree. Macular degeneration is an age-related condition in which the macula, the center of the retina, becomes damaged, destroying clear vision.
Consumer alert: Don't be fooled by products that advertise lutein but contain infinitesimal amounts. Centrum contains only 250 mcg, when experts say 6,000 to 10,000 mcg (or 6 to 10 mg) daily is needed to convey benefits shown in eye studies. That's 25 to 40 times the amount in Centrum.
Lycopene
Lycopene, a red pigment concentrated in tomatoes, is a strong antioxidant that protects cells from all kinds of age-related damage, including cancer, cataracts and heart disease. Both eating tomatoes and taking lycopene directly in a supplement appear to convey protection. (Am J Ther. 2008 Jan-Feb;15(1):66-81.Exp Biol Med (Maywood). 2002 Nov;227(10):845-51. Exp Biol Med (Maywood). 2002 Nov;227(10):908-13.)
Men who eat lots of tomatoes have lower rates of prostate cancer. In one study, patients with localized prostate cancer who took 15 mg of lycopene twice a day cut their odds of progressing to high-grade cancer by 50%. Another Indian study suggests that only 4 mg daily of lycopene might help shrink prostate tumors. (Urology. 2007 Feb;69(2):289-94. Urol Oncol. 2005 Nov-Dec;23(6):383-5.)
So promising is lycopene as an anti-cancer agent that the National Cancer Institute is conducting two studies to investigate the efficacy and safety of lycopene in preventing and treating prostate cancer.
Consumer alert: Centrum contains a mere 300 mcg of lycopene. That's the amount in about 1/3 of a teaspoon of tomato sauce, or 1/36 of a medium size tomato--in other words, a small bite.
Astaxanthin
Astaxanthin is a reddish carotenoid that is most commonly known for its high antioxidant activity. It has been shown in studies to have even higher antioxidant functioning when compared to some of the other carotenoids. (Naguib, Y.M. J Agric Food Chem. 2000 Apr;48(4):1150-4.) Research has indicated that due to astaxanthin’s high antioxidant activity, it may be beneficial for a number of different health concerns. Particularly, it has shown promise for supporting cardiovascular and immune health. Astaxanthin may also provide support for inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases.
A particular study demonstrated just how it may provide antioxidant support. The study showed that it may help suppress the growth of tumor cells by possibly increasing the concentrations of gamma-interferon and increasing the activity of cytotoxic T lymphocytes. According to this study, it appears that astaxanthin would need to be part of the diet prior to tumor formation. (van den Berg, Nutr Rev. 1999 Jan;57(1):1-10.)
According to preliminary research, astaxanthin may be an effective agent against the H. pylori bacterium that can invade the digestive system. The data indicates that astaxanthin might help by acting as an antioxidant and by possibly inhibiting inflammation. (Bennedsen, Wang, et al. Immunol Lett. 1999 Dec 1;70(3):185-9.)
Other data also shows that astaxanthin may be able to prevent the oxidative damage caused by ultraviolet UVA light. (O’Connor, O’Brien. JACN. 1998 Mar;16(3):226-30.)
Data on astaxanthin has shown that it also crosses the blood-brain barrier, which makes the nutrient available to the eye, brain and central nervous system. Due to this function, it may help to alleviate oxidative stress that contributes to ocular and neurodegenerative diseases such as glaucoma and Alzheimer's disease. (Guerin, Huntley, et al. Trends in Biotech. Vol. 21 No. 5.)
CoEnzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
CoQ10 is a powerful, fat-soluble, vitamin-like substance synthesized in the membranes of cells. It is found mostly in mitochondria, the cell’s “power plant.” It is an essential part of the energy-producing process known as the electron transport chain. It acts as kind of a spark plug, assisting in the generation of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the body’s basic energy currency. Without adequate CoQ10, cells cannot make the energy they need to sustain life. Eventually, your whole body suffers the malaise of low energy production. (Mitochondrion. 2007 Jun;7 Suppl:S51-61. Epub 2007 Mar 30.)
It is a potent antioxidant and energy booster, first identified in 1957 and widely used in Japan for the treatment of cardiovascular disease. Since it is in every cell, supplemental CoQ10 has a wide potential of uses–from helping a failing heart work better to slowing the decline of Parkinson’s disease. (Nutr Rev. 2007 Jun;65(6 Pt 1):286-93. Mitochondrion. 2007 Jun;7 Suppl:S146-53. Epub 2007 Mar 27.) Research indicates it can reduce the severity of migraine headaches, improve blood sugar control in diabetics, and even help stop the spread of cancer and improve immune function in AIDS. (Vitam Horm. 2004;69:297-312. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2002 Nov;56(11):1137-42. Biofactors. 1999;9(2-4):365-70.)
After the age of 30, natural levels of CoQ10 begin to diminish. By the age of 80, your CoQ10 levels may be lower than they were at birth. Further loss may come from stress, illness and some medications such as cholesterol-lowering statin drugs, oral hypoglycemic drugs such as glyburide, phenformin and tolazamide and beta-blockers. (Mitochondrion. 2007 Jun;7 Suppl:S168-74. Epub 2007 Mar 27. J Hum Hypertens. 1999 Mar;13(3):203-8. Heart Lung Circ. 2007;16 Suppl 3:S56-64. Epub 2007 Jul 6.) Many alternative practitioners believe that given CoQ10’s potential for protection and good safety record, most older people would be wise to take CoQ10 supplements.
CoQ10 is most highly concentrated in heart muscles because of high energy needs there. Most heart patients are deficient in CoQ10 and supplementing with CoQ10 has dramatically revitalized heart function and relieved heart disease symptoms in some studies. Research suggests CoQ10 may be beneficial for almost any condition related to the heart, including angina, arrhythmia, congestive heart failure, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and cardio toxicity associated with some cancer chemotherapy drugs. (Nutr Rev. 2007 Jun;65(6 Pt 1):286-93. Mitochondrion. 2007 Jun;7 Suppl:S154-67. Epub 2007 Mar 16.)
CoQ10 works two ways in the heart. It protects cells from oxidative damage that can occur when blood supply is cut off, and then restarted, as might happen with injury such as a stroke or heart attack, or with surgery. It also can correct or preserve a cell’s ability to generate energy. (Free Radic Res. 2006 May;40(5):445-53.)
In one study, patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery were given either CoQ10 (300 mg/day) or blank look-alike pills for 2 weeks prior to surgery. Those receiving CoQ10 recovered more quickly from the stress of surgery. Their hearts regained pumping strength faster than those not getting the supplement. (J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg. 2005 Jan;129(1):25-32.)
In another study, people who required CPR because their hearts had stopped were more likely to be alive three months later if they received CoQ10 along with hypothermia treatment than if they received hypothermia treatment alone. (Circulation 2004; 110:3011-3016.)
Alpha Lipoic Acid
A powerful antioxidant itself, alpha lipoic acid increases the antioxidant activity of vitamin C and vitamin E. It has been shown to improve skin tone and appearance by reducing the oxidative effects of photodamage. (Int J Cosmet Sci. 2002 Dec;24(6):331-9.)
Dr. Lester Packer of the University of Southern California, calls alpha lipoic acid a "universal" antioxidant that offers protection against an aging brain, declining memory, strokes, heart disease, cancer and cataracts.
According to researchers, alpha lipoic acid has unique abilities to enter the brain, and can work wonders in rejuvenating the mind and body. (Redox Rep. 2005;10(1):52-60.) It has shown promising evidence in studies that it may be able to restore short-term memory, reduce age-related decay of brain cells and increase physical activity (FASEB J. 1999 Feb;13(2):411-8., Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2002 Apr;959:491-507.) Alpha lipoic acid has also been used successfully to treat Alzheimer's disease. Scientists believe that alpha lipoic acid benefits brain functioning by preventing or repairing damage to brain cell mitochondria, and by chelating, or removing, toxic iron from aged brain cells. (Pharmacol Ther. 2007 Jan;113(1):154-64., Redox Rep. 2005;10(1):52-60., Neurochem Res. 2008 Jan;33(1):194-203.) It is even more potent in combination with acetyl-l-carnitine. (Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2002 Apr;959:491-507; and Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2002 Feb 19;99(4):2356-61.)
In high doses (200-600 mg daily), alpha lipoic acid is used to prevent and lessen the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy. It has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake. (http://www.jabfm.org/cgi/content/abstract/16/1/47)
Folate (Folic Acid)
Folic acid, a B vitamin, is critically important in suppressing the blood protein homocysteine which has been linked to heart disease, strokes and dementia. The vitamin also may reduce the risk of birth defects and certain cancers.
Alzheimer's and folic acid: A dramatic new double-blind Dutch study shows that taking 800 mcg of folic acid daily slowed expected age-related memory decline by more than five years! On tests of cognitive functioning, the folic acid-takers scored astonishingly better on tests, showing their memory was as good as someone 5.4 years younger. Blood levels of homocysteine decreased about 25%, suggesting that may be a major way folic acid stalls brain aging. (Alzheimer's Association conference, Washington, DC, June 21, 2005.)
Folic acid and cancer: Much research ties low levels of folic acid to various cancers. Indeed, taking multivitamins with folic acid (about 400 mcg) for 15 years cut colon cancer risk an astonishing 75% in 88,000 female nurses in a Harvard study. Foods high in folate did not cut cancer risk. (Ann Intern Med. 1998 Oct 1;129(7):517-24.)
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is an essential nutrient needed to process proteins, carbohydrates and fats. It is involved in a wide variety of chemical reactions in the body, including the production of important neurotransmitters, red blood cells and prostaglandins. It is also critical in maintaining hormonal balance and immune function. Vitamin B6 is typically low in depressed people, and these people usually respond well to B6 supplementation. Deficiencies in this nutrient could lead to anemia, acne, arthritis, depression, hair loss, impaired wound healing, flaky skin and many more disorders. (Nutr Hosp. 2007 Jan-Feb;22(1):7-24., Lancet. 1980 Oct 4;2(8197):750-1., Atherosclerosis. 2008 May;198(1):223-7. Epub 2007 Oct 22., Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2003;(4):CD004393.)
Vitamin B6 helps protect the heart and blood vessels by working with folic acid and vitamin B12 to reduce blood levels of toxic homocysteine. It has also found to be effective in helping to prevent lung cancer, oxalate-type kidney stones and premenstrual syndrome. (JAMA. 2008 May 7;299(17):2027-36., Evid Rep Technol Assess (Full Rep). 2006 May;(139):1-117., J Endourol. 1999 Nov;13(9):629-31., J Am Coll Nutr. 2000 Feb;19(1):3-12.)
Intake of vitamin B6 has been linked to weight management. Men and women, average age 55, who said they took B6 for a period of ten years gained less weight than non-users. For example, obese women who did not take B6 gained two and a half times more weight in a decade than women who took more than 35 mg of vitamin B6 daily. Specifically, the high B6 users gained only six pounds over ten years, women taking less than 35 mg daily gained 7.5 pounds and those who took no vitamin B6 gained a hefty 16 pounds! (J Altern Complement Med. 2005 Oct;11(5):909-15.)
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is an essential water-soluble B vitamin. It is often referred to as the anti-stress vitamin because it is believed to help support the immune system and to help the body adapt better to stressful situations. It is needed to prevent anemia by helping with the utilization of iron. It also works together with folic acid in the formation of red blood cells. Additionally, B12 plays a key role in the proper digestion and absorption of foods, as it is needed for the synthesis of protein and other macronutrients. It is crucial in the production of energy because of its role in the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats. (Nippon Rinsho. 2008 Mar;66(3):530-3., Tenn Med. 2008 Feb;101(2):35-6.)
A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to digestive disorders, chronic fatigue, depression, anemia, nervousness, memory loss, ringing in the ears, enlargement of the liver, and eye disorders, among other symptoms. Since vitamin B12 is available almost exclusively from animal products, it is crucial that vegetarians supplement B12 in their diet. People who are using anticoagulant medications should also be sure to supplement vitamin B12, as these medications may block the absorption of B12 in the digestive track. It is also important to keep in mind that absorption of B12 is thought to decline with age. (Tenn Med. 2008 Feb;101(2):35-6. Gen Hosp Psychiatry. 2008 Mar-Apr;30(2):185-6. Biomacromolecules. 2005 Sep-Oct;6(5):2462-7.)
Vitamin B12 is essential for keeping the nervous system functioning into old age. Deficiencies of B12 have caused symptoms similar to those of Alzheimer's, including dementia. Yet deficiencies of B12 are widespread in the U.S., especially among older people, suggesting that some cognitive decline and dementia may be due to a B12 deficiency. It's well established that high doses of B12 are needed to suppress homocysteine, a blood toxin, linked to dementia and Alzheimer's, as well as heart disease. (Lancet Neurol. 2004 Oct;3(10):579-87.,J Alzheimers Dis. 2006 Aug;9(4):361-80., Neurol India. 2004 Sep;52(3):310-8.)
Selenium
Selenium is a trace mineral that is essential to sustain life. It is recognized as being a powerful antioxidant that works especially well when paired with vitamin E. The potent duo works by scavenging free radicals to help prevent them from damaging cells in the body. It is also needed to help the immune system function optimally, and helps in the formation prostaglandins (a substance that affects blood pressure). (J Nutr. 2007 May;137(5):1338-40. Curr Opin Anaesthesiol. 2008 Apr;21(2):148-54. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz). 2007 Sep-Oct;55(5):289-97. Curr Opin Lipidol. 2008 Feb;19(1):43-9.)
It is important to note that people who smoke have an increased need for selenium, as tobacco decreases the availability of this nutrient from the digestive tract. Other factors that increase the need of selenium are exposure to radiation, undergoing chemotherapy and being chronically exposed to other environmental toxins. (Sci Total Environ. 2006 Jul 31;366(1):101-11. Epub 2005 Nov 11. Clin J Oncol Nurs. 2001 Jul-Aug;5(4):181-2.)
There is strong evidence that selenium helps prevent certain cancers. A blockbuster study showed that taking 200 mcg of selenium (selenomethionine) daily for five years reduced overall cancer rate by 42% and cancer deaths by 52%. In the study by Dr. Larry Clark, University of Arizona, selenium was particularly potent against colorectal cancer--reducing risk 64%--and prostate cancer--reducing risk by 69%. (Br J Urol. 1998 May;81(5):730-4. JAMA. 1996 Dec 25;276(24):1957-63.)
Running low on selenium also exposes you to more virulent viruses leading to infections, say USDA researchers.
Selenium is a trace element; it is only needed in small amounts. Taking too much can be toxic, so limit doses to 200 mcg daily, according to the Institutes of Medicine.
Zinc
Zinc is an essential trace mineral found in almost every cell in the body. It is a component of approximately 300 enzymes. Zinc functions in more enzymatic reactions than any other mineral and low zinc levels affect almost every system of the body. Zinc is especially important to immune function, wound healing, sexual functions, sensory functions and skin health. (Yakugaku Zasshi. 2008 Mar;128(3):333-9. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz). 2008 Jan-Feb;56(1):15-30. Epub 2008 Feb 5. Southeast Asian J Trop Med Public Health. 1997;28 Suppl 2:78-82. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab. 1999 Sep-Oct;12(5):589-601.)
Although severe zinc deficiency is rare in the U.S., it is thought that many Americans, especially older people, are mildly deficient. Dietary surveys indicate that the average person only gets 47-67% of the RDA. Zinc deficiency is also suspected to be a major factor in the development of Alzheimer’s. (Nippon Ronen Igakkai Zasshi. 2007 Nov;44(6):677-89. J Alzheimers Dis. 2005 Nov;8(2):161-70; discussion 209-15.)
Zinc possesses some direct antiviral activity, including antiviral activity against several viruses which can cause the common cold. (PLoS Genet. 2008 Jan;4(1):e21.)
Copper
Copper is an important essential trace mineral. It aids in many functions of the body, including the formation of bone, hemoglobin and red blood cells. Along with zinc and vitamin C, it works in balance to form elastin. It also plays a role in the production of collagen and melanin. (Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 1981 Aug 14;294(1071):91-104.) Copper is required for proper iron absorption and assimilation. (Science. 1981 Sep 18;213(4514):1332-8.) A copper deficiency can result in an iron deficiency anemia. Osteoporosis can be one of the early warning signs of a deficiency. (Proc Nutr Soc. 2002 May;61(2):181-5.) Other signs of a deficiency could include baldness, diarrhea, skin sores, weakness and impaired respiratory functioning. (J Toxicol Environ Health B Crit Rev. 2007 Apr-May;10(3):157-222.)
The estimated safe and adequate intake of copper for adults is 1.5-3 mg daily, according to the Institutes of Medicine. Since nutrients such as vitamin C and zinc can interfere with copper absorption, the dosage recommendation for copper is often based on zinc intake. It is estimated that the optimal ratio of zinc to copper is 10:1, or 1 mg of copper for every 10 mg of zinc.
Many studies suggest that taking a supplement containing copper may be beneficial to healing burn wounds since it helps in the production of collagen and elastin. (J Trace Elem Med Biol. 2007;21 Suppl 1:44-8. Epub 2007 Oct 31.) There have been animal studies done that indicate that oral copper supplements reduce the development and progression of arthritis. (Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2005;45(3):145-64.)
Manganese
Manganese functions in many enzyme systems in the body, including in the enzymes involved in blood sugar control, energy metabolism and thyroid hormone function. Manganese also functions in the antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase (SOD). This enzyme is responsible for preventing the superoxide free radical from destroying cellular components. Without SOD, cells are susceptible to damage and inflammation. Manganese supplementation has been shown to increase MnSOD (manganese super oxide dismutase) activity, indicating increased antioxidant activity that protects the body from the damaging effects inflammation. (Agents Actions Suppl. 1981;8:145-64., Neurotoxicology. 1987 Fall;8(3):451-62., Neurotoxicology. 2007 Sep;28(5):951-6. Epub 2007 May 13.)
Manganese is an important cofactor in the key enzymes of glucose metabolism. Diabetics have been shown to have just one-half the manganese of normal individuals. (Nutr Rev. 1968 Jul;26(7):207-9.)
Deficiencies of manganese may result in infertility, weakness and possibly seizures. It is estimated that most people require about 2 mg per day. It is also said that people with arthritis tend to have low levels of MnSOD. Since manganese is thought to increase MnSOD levels, supplementation may be beneficial to a person with arthritis. (Neurotoxicology. 1999 Apr-Jun;20(2-3):205-12., J Clin Exp Neuropsychol. 2007 Feb;29(2):113-26., Free Radic Res Commun. 1991;15(5):297-301., Dis Markers. 2003-2004;19(6):263-5.)
Note: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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