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Anti-oxidants

These chemicals have the ability to prevent oxidation and neutralise free radicals, unstable compounds that react with and damage other substances in the body.

Essential for the overall health and the ultimate anti-ageing nutrients. Recents studies on centenarians has shown that a clue to their longevity may be the higher levels of anti-oxidants in their body.

Alpha Lipolic Acid

ALA is a factor in vital energy producing reactions in the body furthermore, it is a powerful antioxidant, helping to protect the body against damage caused by free radicals.

In Genmany, it is an approved treatment for diabetic nervous disorders and studies suggest that there may be mild benefits in the treatment of some degenerative disorders such as Parkinson's Disease, Alzheimers and Huntington's Disease. Animal studies also suggest that ALA may reduce tissue damage caused by heart attacks or strokes. ALA may also have anti-aging effects, causing a slowing of the deterioration of the brain tissue with age and supplementation may be a safe and effective means to improve general metabolic activity and increase antioxidant status.

Beta-carotene

An anti-oxidant produced by plants, notably carrots, enhancing the immune system response and an essential nutrient.

Promotes healthy eyesight and may prevent certain types of cancer, reduces risk of cardiovascular disease and certain eye disorders.

Co-enzyme Q10

Functiona as an antioxidant, is found naturally in cells and is important in energy production. It plays a part in the proper function and maintenance of a healthy heart and circulatory system, and particularly beneficial to sports people and the elderly.

Supplements are associated with improved heart function, reduced body fat, enhances the immune system, improved athletic performance and in the lowering of blood pressure.

Ginseng

There are three main ginseng sources used in supplements, Asian, American, and Siberian. Asian is said to be the strongest and the root of the plant has been used for over 200 years to help treat a variety of ailments. American ginseng is the next strongest, followed by the milder Siberian ginseng which is preferred for more elderly people. The Russians popularised Siberian ginseng in more recent times as a performance enhancing herb.

Used to fight fatigue and relieve stress and generate a general feeling of well being. Decreases blood pressure and boosts the immune system. Improves concentration and alertness, improves reaction time and improves co-ordination. Helps with gastrointestinal problems, aids arthritic pain and may help diabetics maintain blood glucose levels.

Grape Seed

A powerful anti-oxidant found in the phytonutrients which inhibit enzymes that break down and damage the red blood vessels, connective tissue and skin, and at the same time maintains the flexibility of the blood vessels.

Promotes health and well-being, stimulates and supports the circulatory system health and can be used as nutritional support for venous or circulatory system diseases. Promotes young looking skin, lung health, has anti-inflammatory, anti-histamine and anti-ulcer properties. Fights cavities and gum disease.

L-Carnitine

Synthesised in the body from the amino acids lysine and methionine and is responsible for clearing the fatty acids out of the blood into the mitochondria to be broken down. Combined, the two are reputed to help as a shield against time.

Obtained naturally from beef, mutton and lamb.

Lycopene

An anti-oxidant found in tomatoes and associated with reduced cancer risk, most notably prostate and lung cancers, also cancers of the colon, pancreas and cervix.

May also be beneficial in maintaining cardiovascular well being and the prevention of other degenerative diseases. Tomato is an integral part of the Mediterranean diet which is thought to be one of the healthiest in the world.

Pycnogenol®

An anti-oxidant found in pine bark, contains flavonoids - the type of antioxidants found in a broad range of fruits, vegetables and herbs.

A blend of antioxidants and a natural anti-inflammatory agent, helps your body to combat environmental stress, keeps your circulatory system fit and combats joint inflammation and helps restore flexibility to arterial walls, helps in the treatment of thrombosis, memory loss and retinotherapy.

Selenium

An essential trace element vital to health as an anti-oxidant mopping up cell damaging, unstable oxygen molecules known as free radicals, causing cellular damage. To ensure good health, take a number of different types of anti-oxidant, to give the best protection. Formulations including Beta-carotene and other vitamins C and E are recommended.

Evidence shows that the Selenium intake in the UK is falling below recommended levels and consideration should be given to supplement intake to ensure adequate levels are maintained.


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Last updated: May 3rd, 2003.
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