Research Info

At Doctor's Nutrition we provide nutrition based on scientific information and research, not marketing hype. The field of nutritional research is expanding at an extremely fast pace. We make every effort to stay current with the latest information in this area. Please check back often.

Grape Seed Extract
The healing proanthocyanidins (OPC's)

Ginkgo biloba
The herb of thought and much more

Olivir (Olive leaf extract)
The fruit of the " tree of life"

DeFend MG (Dimethylglycine)
The facts of an obscure cellular nutrient

Vitamin C
Info on the most widely known vitamin

Garlic
Nature's most versatile herb

Glucosamines
Molecules for healthy joints

Chromium Polynicotinate
The most biological active form chromium

Colostrum
The first food of life.

For those requiring more in depth research, especially on vitamin E and beta carotene, follow the link below to Veris. Just use your back button to return. See you back after you visit Veris!

Grape Seed Extract: The healing effects of grape seed extract; fact or fiction? There is a lot of interest recently about grape seed extract and it's chemical cousin, pine bark extract. Both these compounds are commonly referred to as "pycnogenol". (Actually, most of the pycnogenol sold is just pine bark extract) Where did the name and 'legend' come from?

The term 'pycnogenol' is a term put forth by French researchers in the 1970's to distinguish certain compounds in the flavonoid family from others of more common origin (i.e. citrus bioflavonoids). The compounds they were working on are called "flavon-3-ol" derivatives (oligomeric proanthocyanidins) and were found to be much more active than others in the flavonoid family. Hence the term pycnogenol was born. There are two main sources of these proanthocyanidins, pine bark (of certain European pine trees only) and grape seed. The reason for our choosing grape seed extract (GSE) is the same reason the French researchers have; it's cleaner, easier to refine and more potent per volume, 95% OPC's vs 85% OPC's for the pine bark. Also, grape seed extract can contain resveratrol, pine bark does not.

Bioflavonoids have long been known to enhance the activity of vitamin C, however, the pycnogenols or more accurately proanthocyanidins do more than just enhance vitamin C. Many researchers think that GSE actually helps vitamin C enter the cells of our bodies, thus protecting the cells from oxidative damage. What all do these souped-up flavonoids do? The research shows that they are indicated for use as an anti-inflammatory, help increase circulation, strengthen the connective tissues of our bodies and as a very high powered antioxidant. The latest research shows that those extracts which contain resveratrol, an ingredient found in the skins and stems of the red grape family, are capable of protecting against cancer and even treating it! "data show specific involvement of the CD95-CD95L system in the anti-cancer activity of resveratrol and highlight the chemotherapeutic potential of this natural product, in addition to its recently reported chemopreventive activity.", this published in Blood 1998 Aug 1;92(3):996-1002.

As far back as 1981, the French researcher P. Delacrois published an article in the French medical journal, La Revue De Med 27:28-31, in which he reported on a double blind study that showed GSE to be as effective in treating chronic venous insufficiency as any of the drugs normally used to treat the condition. Dr. Delacrois and his team also found GSE to be faster acting and provided a longer duration of symptomatic relief than the routine drug therapy. Drs. Corbe, Boissin, and Siou later published an article in the French Journal of Opthamol 11: 453-460, 1988, in which they had shown evidence of increased visual performance in handling glare and enhanced vision in low light conditions. They surmised that this was due to the increased blood flow to the eyes and optic nerves as well as strengthening of the tissues of the eyes.

More and more studies indicate GSE for the treatment of such common ailments as arthritis and allergies. We have seen remarkable improvement clinically with our patients in both these conditions. Studies, i.e. J. Baruch, Ann Chir Plast Esthet 4; 1984, have found GSE can inhibit the release of certain enzymes that promote inflammation. Other research, i.e. JM Tixier, et al, Biochem Pharmacol 33:3933-3939; 1984, shows GSE helps in the production of collagen, the glue that holds us together. As we age, we produce less collagen and which results in veins and capillaries breaking down and leaking leading to easily bruising and even to varicose veins. By strengthening the veins and capillaries we can improve the circulation of much needed blood to the cells of our body rather than it leaking out and causing those unsightly bruises.

Facino RM, et al in Arzneim-Forsch 44:592-601; 1994 gave us conclusive evidence of the antioxidant powers of GSE. In their study the researchers showed that GSE can prevent the oxidation of blood lipids (fats) which promote the formation of plaque in the arteries. This is good news for our hearts. Liviero and Puglisi in Fit other 65:203-209; 1994 found GSE to be a strong agent in counteracting spontaneous mutation of cells due to it's antioxidant properties. These researchers went on to say that due to the antioxidant properties of GSE that it could be rational to use them as a chemopreventive against many pathological situations.

We utilize the same formulation of GSE as was used in the research, a standardized 95% proanthocyanidins, in our Grape-Ogenol formula. Doctor's Nutrition Grape-Ogenol also contains resveratrol at 450+ ppm. This assures that you get the same product formulation as used in the research. Dosages used in most research were normally 2 to 3, 50mg capsules per day with some as high as 2 to 4, 100mg capsules per day, all in divided doses.

Below are some interesting tidbits on resveratrol: (published in some very good peer reviewed journals)

Am J Clin Nutr 1998 Dec;68(6):1208-14 Activity in vitro of resveratrol on granulocyte and monocyte adhesion to endothelium.
Ferrero ME, et al:
Institute of General Pathology, Centro di Studio sulla Patologia Cellulare del Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Milan, Italy.
(According to this study, not only is resveratrol an antioxidant, it is capable of making the blood cells less 'sticky' to the walls of the blood vessels. This is very important in preventing heart disease.)

J Biol Chem 1998 Aug 21;273(34):21875-82
Resveratrol inhibits cyclooxygenase-2 transcription and activity in phorbol ester-treated human mammary epithelial cells.
Subbaramaiah K, et al:
Department of Medicine, Department of Surgery, at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10021, USA.
(In this study the researchers found resveratrol to be a very active COX-2 inhibitor. This is evidence of the antiinflammatory power of this extract.)

Ginkgo biloba: Ginkgo biloba is probably best known for improving memory. You might have thought this to be just hype or maybe outright lies. Not true. In study after study the beneficial effects of Ginkgo biloba extract have been proven using the most stringent scientific methods available. In a 1993 study by Allain, Raoul, Lieury, et al published in the Journal of Clinical Therapeutics 15: 549-558, demonstrated a significant improvement in the mental abilities of elderly (69.3 yrs avg. age) patients with slight age-related memory impairment.

Another area of interest is the use of Ginkgo biloba extract in the treatment of PMS. That's correct premenstrual syndrome (PMS) ! The French research team of Tamborini and Taurelle published the results of their study in the French periodical Fr. Gynecol Obstet 88: 447-457 in 1993 in which Ginkgo biloba was shown to be effective in the treatment of congestive symptoms of PMS, particularly breast symptoms and even the neuropsychological (the bad mood) symptoms associated with PMS. The team also concluded that the treatment was well tolerated by all taking part in the study with no side effects noted and could be associated with other treatments without inconvenience.

Other studies, i.e Doly, Droy-Lefaix, Braquet EXS 62: 299-307; 1992, have shown Ginkgo biloba extract to have above average antioxidant properties. The antioxidant properties combined with it's ability to interfere with the clotting or clumping of blood platelets and therefore improve blood flow to the brain as well as other parts of the body as demonstrated by Schnieder in Arzneim Forschung 42:428-436: 1992, make Ginkgo biloba an excellent tool to possibly prevent the unwanted side effects of the aging process.

In all the above mentioned research on Ginkgo biloba a standardized extract known as EGb 761 was used. This is the same formulation that we use in our Think Ginkgo product. It is standardized and guaranteed to contain 24% Ginkgo flavone glycosides. In making your purchase decisions, be sure to compare the strength and composition of the products so you get the most benefit for your money.

We feel that any information or article on garlic should start with the following quote by Jack Challem in the Nutritional Reporter 1995; "If garlic had been created in the laboratory instead of nature, it would probably be a high-priced prescription drug." That statement puts the story of garlic in prospective to just how good this pungent herb really is.

Garlic:Garlic has been used as a medicine for over 3,000 years, however, only recent studies have changed the powers of garlic from folklore to scientific fact. There are over 2,000 scientific studies on the therapeutic benefits of garlic in the treatment of a variety of conditions.

In the American Journal of Medicine, June 1994; 94;632-635, Dr. Adesh Jain of Tulane University School of Medicine reported that garlic can lower the "total" blood levels of cholesterol and particularly the dangerous low-density lipoproteins (LDL). Garlic does this without the unwanted side effects of the drugs now commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol.

Dr. H. Kieswetter of the University of Saarlandes, Hamburg, Germany reported that garlic helped patients suffering from peripheral arterial occlusive disease characterized by blood clots in the legs. This was backed up by a study done at a Medical Research Council Laboratory in Oxford, England that showed garlic to reduce blood platelet aggregation (reducing blood's stickiness) and therefore thinning the blood. This results in more blood flow in the extremities and helps prevent any further buildup of the plaque in the arteries and veins.

There is much talk about garlic lowering blood pressure, fact or fiction? Garlic can help lower blood pressure in some individuals due to it's thinning the blood and also the fact that garlic contains gamma-glutamylcysteine, a natural ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) inhibitor as reported in Planta Medica (Sendl, A. Feb. 1992; 58:1-7). Some prescription drugs used for lowering blood pressure work in the same way, by preventing or blocking the formation of the chemical angiotensin converting enzyme.

We have heard for some time now about the bad effects and even the possibility of cancer from a group of chemicals called nitrosamines in bacon, bologna and other processed meat. Dr. John Milner of Pennsylvania State University has published two separate papers in 'Carcinogenesis' demonstrating the protective effects of garlic on the nitrosamine induced cancer in lab rats, one Oct. 1992; 13:1847-51 and again in Feb. 1994 15:349-52. Dr. Milner stated "The total tumor number was reduced by 56% in rats fed the garlic diet."

Garlic has long been known in folk lore as a natural antibiotic. In the scientific community, as far back as 1983 in Medical Hypotheses ;12:227-37, Dr. Lau noted that "garlic extract has broad spectrum antimicrobial activity against many genera of bacteria and fungi...many of which are medically significant", and he went on to say "garlic holds a promising position as a broad spectrum therapeutic agent". One specific fungal infection that Dr. Lau pointed out as responding to garlic treatment was the Candida infections. Later in a German study published in Zietschrift fur Onkologie, April 1989; 21:52-53, described garlic as enhancing the body's "killer cell" activity against the AIDS virus.

The research shows that garlic is indeed a powerful agent in the quest for natural health, and there is no doubt that if developed in the laboratory today, it would become a 'wonder' drug and a very expensive one!

Olivir: Note:Olivir (Olivir is TM of BioStar Nutriceuticals, Inc.) has been studied for its potential effects on health conditions, Olivir is a dietary supplement, not a drug. The statements made herein have not been evaluated by the FDA, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
There are selected extracts of the olive plant (olea europa) that have proven to have highly effective, non-toxic virucide and bactericide activity. One of these active components, Calcium Elanolate [(C11 H13 O6)2 Ca] has been shown to be extraordinarily virucidal and bactericidal for all the viruses and bacteria it has been tested on.

Olivir is a proprietary preparation made by extracting certain chemicals from a specific type of olive leaf using a hydroethanolic process. Cruder, yet similar preparations were used as far back as 1827 when ethanolic extracts were used to treat malaria. Reports of similar extracts also appear in the medical literature in 1854, and in 1906 it was reported that olive leaf extracts were far superior to quinine for the treatment of malarial infections. In 1957, the active ingredient, oleuropein, was isolated and studied as a treatment for high blood pressure and other types of heart disease. Starting in 1970 and continuing to the present, the hydrolyzed form of oleuropein (Calcium Elanolate), has been tested and found effective against dozens of different viruses and many strains of bacteria. What is amazing about all these experiments is that no toxicity or other side effects was reported!

Olivir demonstrates direct anti-viral and bactericidal activity when taken orally. Olivir kills viruses by interfering with certain amino acid production processes necessary for the virility of the specific virus. It also directly stimulates phagocytosis, which destroys the virus and bacteria cells.

Clinical data suggests that Olivir appears to interfere with viral infection and/or spread by directly inactivating the virus or by preventing the virus shedding, budding or assembly at the cell membrane. It has the ability to directly penetrate infected host cells and irreversibly inhibit viral replication. It even appears to be effective against latent or dormant viruses as well. One very positive aspect of Olivir is it acts at low concentrations and does not appear to influence host cell mechanisms. Clinical tests also confirm that Olivir does not cause mutagenicity of the virus.

With all the concern of the over use of antibiotics and the mutagenicity of virus and bacteria, Olivir may well be a safe and effective alternative.

Some of the virus and bacteria tested:

Viruses:

• Herpes (MRS)
• Epsteen Bar (EBV)
• Herpes (MRS)
• Vaccinia
• Pseudorabies
• Influenza A (PRS)
• Newcastle Disease
• Parainfluenza 3
• Coxsakie A 21
• Encephlomyocarditis
• Polio 1
• Polio 2
• Polio 3
• Vesicular Stomtitus
• Sindbis
• Reovirus (Deering)
• Moloney Murine Leukemia
• Rauscher Murine Leukemia
• Moloney Sarcoma
• Influenza A/NWS (HONI)
• Influenza A/PR8/34 (HONI)
• Influenza A/FM/1/47 (HONI)
• Influenza A/Ann Arbor/1/57 (HIN2)
• Influenza A/Hong Kong/Richardson/68
• Influenza B/Lee/40
• Influenza B/Maryland/1/59
• Parainfluenza 1 (Sendai) ATCC
• Parainfluenza 1 (Sendai) TUC
• Parainfluenza 1 (C-35, HA-2)
• Parainfluenza 2 (CA, Greer)

  Bacteria and Parasitic Protozoans:

• Lactobacillus Plantarum W50
• L. Brevis 50
• Pediococcus Cerevisiae 39
• Leuconostoc Meseteroides 42
• Staphylococcus Aureus
• Bacillus Subtilis
• Enterobacteraerogenes NRRL B-199
• E. Cloacae NRRL B-414
• Escherichia Coli
• Salmonella Tyhimurium
• Pseudomonas Fluorescens
• P. Solanacearum
• P. Lachrymans
• Erwinia Carotova
• E. Tracheiphila
• Xanthomonas Vesicatoria
• Corynesbacterium Michiganese
• Plasmodium Falciparum
• Virax
• Malaria

In our clinical use of this product, we have seen remarkable results in such cases as acne, chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia, among other disorders. We think one of the strongest points in favor of Olivir as an adjunct therapy is that is does not cause mutagenicity of the organisms and does not interfere with the normal function of the cell. Olivir coupled with immune enhancers and other known natural antibiotics puts natural healing on another plane.

Defend MG: Pure N, N, Dimethylglycine or DMG as it is referred to, is a rather obscure, yet patented, and difficult to obtain nutrient. Because of the lack of knowledge of this nutrient, most consumers are not aware of DMG or what it does for the body. Let's look into the many wonders of this great product.

N, N, Dimethylglycine or DMG, is one of the many compounds that make up the B vitamins and is sometimes referred to as B 15. DMG is an oxygen providing nutrient which is found in the cells of all plants and animals. That's correct, ALL plants and animals, even humans, yet our bodies produce DMG only in very small amounts.. Adequate oxygen supplies to the cells of our bodies is very critical to our health and even life it's self.

Many research studies concerning DMG were carried out in the Soviet Union during the 1960's. This research led to the adoption of DMG as a supplement to the dietary regimen of the then unbeatable Soviet athletes. In the mid 1970's, an American researcher, Dr. Roger Kendall (Phd, biochemistry) was able to identify DMG as the key ingredient in the Soviet formula. Since Dr. Kendall's discovery, many university studies have proven the many beneficial effects of DMG, and DMG is one of the few dietary supplements protected by five U.S. Patents.

DMG and it's oxygenation of the cells of the body provide support to the brain, muscles and the glandular system. It is the increased support to the glandular system that led to research of DMG on the immune system and ultimately one of the patents. DMG has shown value and use in improving both humoral and cellular mediated immunity. This increased support of the immune system combined with the increased oxygenation of all cells has led to DMG's use in the treatment of autism and even current working the treatment of AIDs.

DMG is truly a remarkable supplement as research has shown. It has been proven beneficial in increasing the immune response, slowing the effects of the aging process and increasing the performance of athletes.

(For more information on the treatment of autism click on the following link. Be sure and use your back button to return!) http://www.autism.org/dmg.html

Vitamin C:Any reference to vitamin C could not be complete without referring to the works of Dr. Linus Pauling, Ph.D. It is now common knowledge, even to the uninitiated in nutrition, that there is a link between vitamin C and the common cold and this is mostly due to the work of Dr. Pauling. I would like to make clear a point about Dr Pauling's work and reference to vitamin C and the cold, he never stated that vitamin C would cure the cold, what he stated was that vitamin C could reduce the severity and symptoms of the viral attack and could possibly prevent the onset of the cold. With that out of the way it is now time to look at the most important work Dr. Pauling did in the field of vitamin C, that of heart disease and vitamin C. Let's take a look at some of the work Pauling did prior to his death.

During the last decade, 2-time Nobel Prize winner Pauling and his associate and heart researcher Dr. Mathias Rath, M.D., independently formulated their own assessment regarding the cause and nature of occlusive heart disease. They agree that heart disease is essentially a repair process that is started by a lesion; their theory explains the primary reason these lesions occur. Accordingly, CVD (coronary vascular disease) is a natural body healing process for the walls of arteries and veins weak from insufficient collagen, a condition caused by inadequate vitamin C in the diet. Their theory also included the recent work preformed on Lipoprotein (a) or Lp(a) and it's 'sticky' tendencies that cause it to be bound to the lesions in the arterial walls. The team of Pauling and Rath gathered information and concluded that, due to certain chemical markers found in the lesions (lysyl groups), that the amino acid L-Lysine, which is an essential amino acid and not found in adequate amounts in our diets, worked in conjunction with vitamin C to repair the lesions and remove the Lp(a) from the plaque in the arteries. This is great detective work on their part , and it provides a simple explanation for the amount and severity of heart disease seen in humans. Man, primates and guinea pigs are the only animals that do not produce their own vitamin C internally. This may be a flaw of evolution, however, it leaves us humans with a need that must be met. These stats talk for themselves:

This is not only an American problem:
"A study of 1,605 randomly selected man in Finland, aged 42 to 60 years, was conducted between 1984 and 1989. None of the men had evidence of pre-existing heart disease. After adjusting for other confounding factors, men who were deficient in vitamin C had 3.5 times more heart attacks than men who were not deficient in vitamin C. The scientist's conclusion was, "Vitamin C deficiency, as assessed by low plasma ascorbate concentration, is a risk factor for coronary heart disease." British Medical Journal (Vol 314, Iss 708, 1997).

With their (Pauling and Rath) therapeutic approach of vitamin C and L-Lysine therapy, results were dramatic and quickly noticed:
"People with severe heart disease who have adopted the therapeutic program (shown below) report relief of their angina-pectoris pain in a short period of time, often as little as 2 weeks." Pauling stated: "We have verified one recent case where ultrasound estimated a 90% and 50% blockage in the carotid arteries. Surgery confirmed and cleared the 90% blockage. One month later (after the patient adopted Pauling's program) a second surgery on the 50% verified that his carotid arteries had somehow, "miraculously," cleared of the blockage".

According to Dr. Rath,( Dr. Rath has kept up the work he and Dr, Pauling started) significant documentation attests that:
"Vitamins belong to the most powerful agents in the fight against heart disease. This fact has been established by studies of thousands of people over many years. Here are some important results of recent clinical studies: Vitamin C cuts heart disease rate almost in half (documented in 11,000 Americans over ten years) Vitamin E cuts heart disease rate by more than one third (documented in 36,000 Americans over six years.) Beta Carotene (pro vitamin A) cuts heart disease rate almost in half (documented in 36,000 Americans). No prescription drug has ever been shown to help prevent heart disease similar [vitamins A, C and E]. These results and those of countless other studies are so clear that anybody questioning the value of vitamins in the prevention of heart disease may safely be considered as uninformed."

As we can see, there is mounting evidence that vitamin C can and does reverse heart disease. How about other benefits of vitamin C? A few quotes from some other very respected scientist regarding vitamin C:

Albert Szent-Gyorgyi, M.D., Ph.D., Nobel Laureate
"My own interest in ascorbic acid centered around its role in vegetable respiration and defense mechanisms. All the same, I always had the feeling that not enough use was made of it for supporting human health. The reasons are rather complex. The medical profession itself took a very narrow and wrong view. Lack of ascorbic acid caused scurvy, so if there was no scurvy there was no lack of ascorbic acid. Nothing could be clearer than this. The only trouble was that scurvy is not a first symptom of lack but a final collapse, a premortal syndrome, and there is a very wide gap between scurvy and full health. But nobody knows what full health is!"

Irwin Stone from THE HEALING FACTOR: Vitamin C Against Disease
"We can surmise that the production of ascorbic acid was an early accomplishment of the life process because of its wide distribution in nearly all present-day living organisms. It is produced in comparatively large amounts in the simplest plants and the most complex; it is synthesized in the most primitive animal species as well as in the most highly organized. Except possibly for a few microorganisms, those species of animals that cannot make their own ascorbic acid are the exceptions and require it in their food if they are to survive. Without it, life cannot exist. Because of its nearly universal presence in both plants and animals we can also assume that its production was well organized before the time when evolving life forms diverged along separate plant and animal lines."

Dr. Emanuel Cheraskin, Dr. Ringsdorf and Dr. Sisley from THE VITAMIN C CONNECTION
"There are more than ten thousand published scientific papers that make it quite clear that there is not one body process (such as what goes on inside cells or tissues) and not one disease or syndrome (from the common cold to leprosy) that is not influenced -- directly or indirectly -- by vitamin C."

As you can see there is considerable documentation on this nutrient, and it all points to the fact that we humans need to be concerned with getting adequate amounts every day!

Glucosamines: The primary ingredients in our products ReBUILD, ReBUILD Plus and Glucosamine Sulfate are the Glucosamines. Glucosamines are the natural building blocks of our connective tissues that help strengthen and hold together our ligaments, tendons, heart valves, nails, skin, bones and cartilage of our bodies. They also form compounds known as glucosaminoglycans in the synovial fluid (the fluid in our joints that act as shock absorbers and lubricants for our joints) which give this fluid greater elasticity, shock resistance and lubricating powers. Our bodies also use glucosamines as a precursor to make mucopolysaccharides which can decrease inflammation, stimulate secretion of synovial fluid and inhibit enzymes such as collagenases which degrade our connective tissues.

As early as 1980 in the Curr. Med. Res. Opin. 7:110-114 a study by Pujalte, Llavore and Ylescupidez demonstrated the effectiveness of the glucosamines in the treatment of osteoarthrosis, the most common type of arthritis we all experience as we age. "Patients given glucosamine sulphate experienced earlier alleviation of symptoms...and resulted in a larger portion of patients who experienced lessening or disappearance of symptoms during the trial period."

In 1981Ambrosio, Casa, Bompasi, et al published in the journal Phatmatherapeutica, 2:504-508, concluding that "glucosamine sulphate should be considered as basic therapy for the management of primary or secondary degenerative osteoarthrosis disorders." Further studies by a Russian team led by Zupanets, Drogovoz and Bezdetko and published in Farmakol Toksikol (USSR) 1991; 54:61-3 found that patients treated with normal nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Ibuprofen, Indomethacin, Piroxicam, etc.) could reduce the amounts of the drugs when supplemented with glucosamines. This is a significant finding when we consider the side effects of these drugs!

Probably one of the most convincing studies (just because of who did it) was performed by the military and published in the journal Military Medicine.
Mil Med 1999 Feb;164(2):85-91
Glucosamine, chondroitin, and manganese ascorbate for degenerative joint disease of the knee or low back: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study.
Leffler CT, Philippi AF, Leffler SG, Mosure JC, Kim PD
Medical Department, Naval Special Warfare Group Two, Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek, Norfolk, VA 23521, USA.
"OBJECTIVE: A 16-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial of a combination of glucosamine HCl (1,500 mg/day), chondroitin sulfate (1,200 mg/day), and manganese ascorbate (228 mg/day) in degenerative joint disease (DJD) of the knee or low back was conducted. RESULTS: Knee osteoarthritis symptoms were relieved as demonstrated by the summary disease score (-16.3%; p =0.05), patient assessment of treatment effect (p = 0.02), visual analog scale for pain recorded at clinic visits (-26.6%; p = 0.05) and in a diary (-28.6%; p = 0.02), and physical examination score (-43.3%; p = 0.01)..... CONCLUSIONS: The combination therapy relieves symptoms of knee osteoarthritis."

Study after study reports the same type of findings as these earlier accounts and further leads to the mounting evidence of the safety and effectiveness of the glucosamines in treating the various arthritic conditions. This is very substantial considering that we all can be afflicted by one or more of these conditions as we age.

P.S. (We have three products in this catagory, ReBUILD, ReBUILD Plus and Glucosamine Sulfate. The product ReBUILD is a blend of several forms of glucosamines and is somewhat easier of the digestive tract. Some individuals can experience stomach irritation with the straight glucosamine sulfates and may want to use ReBUILD instead. ReBUILD Plus is a combination of glucosamines and chondroitins like the military study used.)

Chromium Polynicotinate: Chromium, the mineral, is an essential trace element required for normal protein, fat and carbohydrate metabolism. Research by the USDA shows that the typical American diet is low in chromium. Other research shows that chromium supplements can often help control blood sugar levels, which is very important in such conditions as diabetes and hypoglycemia, and can even help lower cholesterol.

Chromium supplements work by activating the hormone insulin. However, as you might have guessed, not all chromium supplements are alike. The specific chemical structure and composition of the chromium compound determines how biologically active (read as effective) it can be.

All one has to do is visit any health food or vitamin store and read labels to determine there are many forms of dietary chromium being sold. The bioavailability (absorption and retention activity) and biological activity (ability to potentiate insulin) varies with each compound. Inorganic chromium such as chromium chloride is poorly absorbed (0.5-2%) by our bodies and has little or no effect on insulin due to the fact that it must first be converted into a biologically active form. Our body has a limited ability to provide this process.

The most popular forms of organic chromium are a niacin-bound chromium, polynicotinate, and chromium picolinate. These compounds may sound alike, however, there are major chemical differences between the two. Chromium polynicotinate is the compound used in Doctor's Nutrition ChromeMax. Let's see why.

First introduced in 1988, chromium picolinate became popular when a scientist from a Midwestern college reported that it increased lean body mass in male athletes. It is currently being marketed as the biologically active form of chromium with the ability to reduce body fat, build lean muscle mass and increase your life span by more than one multi-level marketing group.

Chromium Polynicotinate is a family of niacin-bound chromium compounds. These biologically active chromium compounds were discovered by Dr. Walter Mertz. Dr. Mertz, former director of the USDA's Human Nutrition Research Center, identified a chromium-niacin complex as the active chromium ingredient in Brewer's yeast. His research showed that niacin-bound or polynicotinate chromium strongly potentiates insulin while chromium picolinate does not.

Polynicotinate chromium is also more bioavailable than chromium picolinate. Animal research study at the University of California found that polynicotinate chromium was absorbed and retained up to 311% better than chromium picolinate and 672% better than chromium chloride. The high bioavailability means that polynicotinate chromium has the ability to deliver more of the healthy benefits chromium has to offer.

Polynicotinate chromium is compounded together with niacin, a B vitamin, whereas the chromium picolinate is compounded with Picolinic acid. According to current research, it is unclear what effect picolinic acid has on the body. Little is known about its nutritional value or physiological effects.

Chromium picolinate does provide the mineral chromium to the body. There is no evidence that chromium picolinate is a naturally occurring substance or has a normal physiological role. Long term supplementation with picolinate complexes in high doses may even be harmful. Picolinic acid competes with niacin, removes iron from cells, and has been shown to alter normal glandular function in laboratory animals. This does not sound like anything that one would take for it's health benefits.

As stated above, chromium picolinate became popular through marketing. Virtually all the claims associated with the benefits of chromium picolinate originate from studies involving the product's inventor, who has a financial interest in the sale of the product! This conflict of interest has raised serious questions about the validity of the research and claims used to promote chromium picolinate. Researchers at Louisiana State University found that male athletes taking chromium picolinate (at same dosages used in the inventor's original studies) actually gained less lean body mass than those taking a placebo.

The claim that chromium picolinate is "patented by the U. S. Department of Agriculture" is somewhat misleading. The USDA received this patent due to the inventor working there at the time he developed the product, and the USDA does not endorse chromium picolinate for use in human nutrition.

The use of polynicotinate in human nutrition is based on studies performed at independent universities and government research centers. Studies at Auburn University have shown that polynicotinate lowers cholesterol in humans by 14%, and tests at New Zealand's Massey University have shown that polynicotinate chromium is many times more potent than other forms of chromium.

The research speaks loudly and that is why we at Doctor's Nutrition chose to use the polynicotinate form of chromium. Our interests are in the health benefits, not in marketing hype. We hope that you appreciate our concern for health and our constant vigilance in product research.

Colostrum Roger V. Kendall, Ph.D.

Introduction
There have been some exciting breakthroughs in the research on Colostrum over the past 10 years due to advances of innovative biotechnology. Studies on this versatile substance, a totally natural product, have shown its many benefits to health.1 Colostrum can strengthen and help maintain the immune system, promote a growth hormone effect and enhance the healing of gastrointestinal problems such as gastrointestitis, diarrhea and intestinal permeability.2,3,4 The antimicrobial activity of Colostrum is well documented. Colostrum has antibiotic, antiviral and anti-fungal properties and has been found useful in the treatment of sinusitis, bronchitis, hepatitis, herpes, urinary tract infection, chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia. Its dramatic healing properties are also being used to support recovery from joint and connective tissue disorders.2 The growth factors present include IGF-1 (insulin-like growth hormone) and TGF-B (transforming growth factor-beta), which support the growth and repair of both muscle and cartilage.5,6 It is no wonder that Colostrum is being used to treat a wide spectrum of health problems by physicians, athletic trainers and nutritionists. As a totally natural product, Colostrum has the combined advantage of no adverse side effects coupled with potent healing properties. Colostrum’s ability to enhance the immune system may be the basis of its health promoting effects.7

Potential Areas of Use
Bovine Colostrum has multiple areas where its benefits have been reported. These include:

• Immune Enhancement
• Antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal protection
• Anti-inflammatory Effect
• Promote Bone and Joint Health
• Wound Healing
• Gastrointestinal Problems
• Allergies
• Muscle Mass Development-Growth Hormone Effect
• Fatigue and Muscle Pain Relief
  
  

Colostrum is a rich source of protein, including immune proteins classed as immunoglobulins (IgG, IgD, IgE, IgM and IgA), antibody stimulating factors and growth hormones. Colostrum contains Lactoferrin, an iron binding glycoprotein, which has potent antimicrobial properties. It also contains vitamins, nucleotides, enzymes and other components that destroy disease-causing microorganisms. It is an especially rich source of Vitamins A, Folic Acid, B12 and E. Colostrum contains a wide range of specific nucleotides, including orotic acid, an important mineral transporter known as Vitamin B13.

Mineral content includes Calcium, Potassium, Phosphorus and Magnesium to name a few. All of the amino acids are present. The especially high levels of immunoglobulins or antibodies make Colostrum an effective immunological agent against most gut encountered bacteria, virus and yeast.8 Both human and animal pathogens respond to Bovine Colostrum. These include Helicobacter pylori (which causes ulcers in humans), Helicobacter mustelae (a gastric pathogen in ferrets), Candida albicans (associated with yeast infection), E. Coli, Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Salmonella and Listeria. A recent publication in the Journal of Infectious Diseases showed the effectiveness of Colostrum against H. pylori and H. mustalae.9

Extensive published research in the use of Colostrum has demonstrated the scientific basis of the clinical applications of this vital food. Natural antibiotic products like Colostrum can do much to replace the overuse and abuse of antibiotics in children. Extensive use of antibiotics has been linked to allergy and intestinal problems in children when they grow older. In fact, Colostrum may be the product of choice for prevention and treatment of allergy and gastrointestinal health problems. Bovine Colostrum offers a viable alternative to conventional antibiotics.10

Many doctors are now using Bovine Colostrum to treat chronic swelling of the nasal passages, respiratory infections, dental infections, allergies and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Allergy patients report significant reduction of nasal obstruction and inflammation during the hay fever season. In summary, Colostrum may be effective against most infections that strike the human species, including the common cold.

Athletes, elderly people and individuals with musculoskeletal injuries have found that they can capitalize on Colostrum’s anabolic effect.4, 5,8 Colostrum has the ability to enhance fat burning and promotes increased muscle mass. Studies have shown that Colostrum will effectively raise the IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor) levels in the body, which mediates the actions of hGH (Human Growth Hormone). What is interesting is that IGF-1 stimulates muscle growth even in the absence of hGH. This discovery shows that consuming hGH orally may not be the most effective or safest way for athletes and body builders to increase muscle mass since one can obtain the same, if not better results by consuming Bovine Colostrum. The structure of Bovine IGF is almost identical to Human IGF and appears to be just as potent in providing powerful cellular growth.11 The growth stimulating factors in Colostrum promote muscular growth, decrease adipose tissue as well as stimulate healing and tissue repair of nerve fibers, muscle, bone and cartilage. The benefits of Colostrum for the elderly become obvious when we consider that the product may enhance muscle tone, skin elasticity and increase bone density. The growth promoting factors in Colostrum are of great benefit to wound healing.

Colostrum is an ideal product for people who have gastrointestinal difficulties. The product can help individuals who have assimilation and absorption problems, Colitis, Diverticulosis, Crohn’s disease and other inflammatory disorders of the GI tract. It is especially beneficial for people suffering from chronic diarrhea.12,13,14 Diarrhea in children caused by rotavirus has been successfully treated with Bovine Colostrum.15

Colostrum also contains factors which may relieve the symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis. A study done at the Mathilda and Terence Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology in London, England, found that Colostrum led to rapid improvement of decreased pain, greater joint mobility and less inflammation in most patients.16 The presence of certain peptides in the product has been found to induce anti-inflammatory cytokine induced activity, which allows a person’s immune response to readjust its response mechanism against auto-immune disease processes.17 It can be said that these peptides in Colostrum act as true immuno-modulators by affecting the levels of specific interleukins, which promote anti-inflammatory response. The doctors in the study reported that the benefits of Colostrum were extended to Osteoarthritis as well, in the 10 patients who participated. After a three-month follow up, it was established that the patients continued to improve even after prolonged therapy. The advantage of oral administration, low cost and absence of side effects, when compared to the current drug therapies available, demonstrates the potential value of Colostrum in treating these conditions.

Doctor's Nutrition Colostrum contains 30% active immunoglobulins for enhanced immune properties against a variety of bacteria, viruses and other pathogenics.18, Doctor's Nutrition Colostrum is prepared with utmost scientific care assuming that the biological activity of the product is not destroyed. This fragile product is produced under strict Quality Control with the Colostrum being expressed or collected from pasture-fed cows in the first 12-36 hours after they give birth to ensure the high immunoglobulin potency required (greater than 30%). Temperature, pH and drying procedures are closely monitored. The temperature is kept below 40°C to ensure that biological activity is not lost and potency is ensured.

It is interesting to note that Colostrum contains certain proteins, such as Trypsin and Protease Inhibitors which protect the proteins (immunoglobulins, etc.) from being broken down in the stomach.20 These inhibitors allow for most of the components of Colostrum to pass through the stomach acids without being digested. This means that the proteins are absorbed into the bloodstream in tact, to accomplish their removal of toxins, viruses, bacteria and fungi in the body.

The Colostrum is collected from pasture-fed cows, which are pesticide, antibiotic and hormone free. Doctor's Nutrition Bovine Colostrum is non-allergenic and totally safe.

Colostrum contains the following vital components for a more enhanced immune system function and growth promoting effects:

• Full Spectrum of Amino Acids
• Key Minerals and Vitamins
• Immunoglobulins (IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG and IgM)
• Lactoferrin
• Protekin-rich Polypeptide (PRP)
• Leukocytes
• Lycozyme
• Enzymes
• Lymphokines
• Trypsin Inhibitors
• Oligo Polysaccharides
• Insulin Growth Factor
• Transforming Growth Factor
• Nucleotides including Orotic Acid

• 1.COLOSTRUM CHEWABLES (250 mg) A Chewable, Great Tasting Tablet
• 2.COLOSTRUM CAPSULES (600 mg) A Special Enteric Coated Capsule

The dosage of Colostrum depends on individual need, stress level and biochemical individuality. One cannot overdose on this pure, natural, health promoting product. It is suggested that for a maintenance program, a recommended level of 600-1200 mg daily would suffice. For serious infections, degenerative joint problems or gastrointestinal problems, a dose range of 1200-2400 mg may be suggested. Other problems would probably call for more moderate intake. The product is best taken on an empty stomach, either one hour before, or two hours after a meal.

Conclusion Colostrum represents a product with multiple benefits to health, well being and regeneration. The various therapeutic factors in the product promote faster healing from many health conditions, including most infections, immune incompetence, gastrointestinal problems, allergies, inflammation, degenerative joint and connective tissue disorders. In addition, Colostrum offers proven growth stimulating factors which can enhance muscle mass development, wound healing, tissue repair of bone muscle, nerve fibers and joints. Colostrum also protects the lumen of the gut from pathogens and toxins. Colostrum represents a totally natural health promoting product that is finding its way into many areas of therapy to maintain and strengthen the immune system and to fight disease.


REFERENCES

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• 9.Bitzan, M.M.; Gold, B.D.; Philpott, D.J.; Huesca, M.; Sherman, P.M.; Karch, H.; Lissner,R.; Lingwood, C. A.; karmali, M.A. Inhibition of Helicobacter pylori and Helicobacter mustelae binding to lipid receptors by bovine colostrum. The Journal of Infectious Disease. 177:955-961, April 1998.
• 10.Davidson, G. P.; Daniels, E. Nunan, H.; Moore, A.G.; Whyte, P.B.D.; Franklin, K.; McCloud, P.L.; Moore, D.J. Passive immunications of children with bovine colostrum containing antibodies to human rotavirus. Lancet. 2:709-712, 1989.
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• 14.Rump, J.A., et. al. Treatment of diarrhea in human immmunodeficiency virus-infected patients with immunoglobulins from bovine colostrum. Clinical Investigator. 70:588-594, 1992.
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