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UMN Coenzyme Q-10/ L-Carnitine Support

see Coenzyme Q10 Nutritional Research

A powerful cellular energizer, antioxidant & lipid transporter for maintaining healthy heart, vascular, & immune function. The most bio-available Coenzyme Q-10/ L-Carnitine formula available. Liquid in a softgel.

Ingredients:

1. COENZYME Q10 (Hydrosoluble) 30 mg
2. L-Carnitine (as Fumarate) 250 mg
3. Vitamin C (as ascorbyl palmitate) 12 mg
4. Vitamin E (as acetate, hydrosoluble) 75 IU

Ingredient Rationale:

1. Ingredient Name: Coenzyme Q-10 (Hydrosoluble™)
(U.S. Patent No. 6, 056, 971)

Used For / Claims:
Coenzyme Q10 is fat-soluble nutrient that acts similar to a vitamin. It is utilized in every cell of the body. The organs containing the highest levels of Coenzyme Q10 are the heart, liver, kidneys, and muscles. It is necessary for the production of vital cellular energy, which is essential for every single process of life.

Low levels of Coenzyme Q10 have been reported in scientific literature for a wide spectrum of heart and vascular conditions. Cellular energy production in the body absolutely depends on the presence of both CoenzymeQ10 and L-Carnitine. Coenzyme Q10 works synergistically in the body with Vitamin C, Vitamin E & Alpha Lipoic Acid. The body has the ability to manufacture Coenzyme Q10, and it derives small amounts from dietary sources, mainly from organ meats and seafood, however, the amount of Coenzyme Q10 obtained from food sources cannot achieve therapeutic effects. Therefore, dietary supplements of coenzyme Q10 must be consumed to provide therapeutic effects. Aging, liver damage (even mild cases), low protein and/or strict vegetarian diets, strenuous exercise, genetic abnormalities and numerous health conditions are factors that may impair optimal Coenzyme Q10 production by the body. Certain prescription drugs, including “Statin” drugs used to lower cholesterol, “Anti-hypertensive” drugs used to lower blood pressure, and “Anti-depressant” drugs are known to decrease Coenzyme Q10 production by the body. Coenzyme Q10 levels in organs decrease with age and as a result of some disease conditions such as cardiomyopathies (heart muscle conditions) and degenerative muscle diseases.

Coenzyme Q10 supplementation becomes necessary (especially for heart health) as we age because Coenzyme Q10 levels in our body begin to decline between the second and third decade of life, and the tissue most sensitive to low levels of this nutrient, is the heart. The heart contains ten times more Coenzyme Q10 than any other organ in the body. The most metabolically active organ in our body, the heart requires a tremendous amount of continuous energy to beat at approximately 72 beats a minute, 24 hours a day, for as long as you live (2.5 billion beats by age 65!), and depends on Coenzyme Q10 to ensure adequate energy supply.
Oral supplementation of Coenzyme Q10 can increase blood levels, and studies have shown that supplementation increases mitochondrial levels of Coenzyme Q10. Significant clinical improvement has been reported when supplemental Coenzyme Q10 has been administered as an adjunct to conventional therapies for heart disease. Many studies have shown that people suffering from different forms of heart disease are deficient in Coenzyme Q10. This makes sense, as congestive heart failure results from the inability of the heart to generate the energy and strength necessary to maintain circulation. Congestive heart failure has served as a model for measurable deficiency of Coenzyme Q10 in blood and tissue, which when corrected, results in improved heart muscle function. Numerous hospital studies and clinical trials using Coenzyme Q10 for various forms of heart disease, including syndromes involving angina, have provided clear evidence of the antioxidant cell protective effects of Coenzyme Q10.

When it is so difficult to get enough Coenzyme Q10 from ordinary foods and most foods do not deliver adequate amounts of the vitamins and minerals (Folic acid, Vitamins C, B12, B6 and Trace Minerals) necessary for our body to synthesize this nutrient, CoQ10 supplementation becomes a must if heart health is to be maintained. The advantages of the superior form of Coenzyme Q10 contained in the UMN Coenzyme Q-10/ L-Carnitine Support formula are numerous if your goal is to maintain a healthy heart, healthy blood pressure and healthy cholesterol levels, which provides 300%+ higher blood levels of Coenzyme Q10 than conventional dosage forms because it is more easily absorbed by the body. In fact, it is impossible to achieve the same blood levels of Coenzyme Q10 with conventional supplements.

The Coenzyme Q10 in UMN Coenzyme Q-10/ L-Carnitine Support formula is in its active antioxidant form (patent pending). No other Coenzyme Q10 supplement can claim this. With UMN Coenzyme Q-10/ L-Carnitine Support formula, you can take lower dosages and fewer pills, therefore reducing the cost of supplementation, and it is the dosage form preferred and recommended by leading physicians and cardiologists.

Coenzyme Q10’s primary functions include:

· Antioxidant protection against free radical oxidation
· Stabilizer of cellular and tissue membranes
· Inhibiting lipid peroxidation in cell membranes and LDL cholesterol
· Protecting DNA and proteins from oxidative damage
· Essential coenzyme in numerous metabolic pathways
· Essential coenzyme in the electron transport chain
· Co-factor for the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP)

Coenzyme Q-10 is used for:

· Angina and arrhythmias
· Anti-aging benefits
· Cellular energy production
· Congestive heart failure (CHF)
· Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)
· Diabetes
· Fibromyalgia
· Healthy heart function
· Healthy vascular function
· Healthy immune system
· HIV/AIDS
· Huntington's disease
· Improving exercise tolerance
· Maintaining healthy homocysteine levels
· Maintaining healthy blood pressure levels
· Male infertility
· Migraine headache
· Muscular dystrophy
· Parkinson's disease
· Periodontal disease
· Preventing "statin"-induced myopathy
· Providing antioxidant protection to cholesterol
· Reducing memory loss

Dosage/Safety: Coenzyme Q-10 has been recommended at doses up to 1200 mg per day, and is very safe when used orally and appropriately. In studies lasting up to 30 months, there have been no reports of significant side effects or toxicity.

References:

Crane FL. Biochemical functions of coenzyme Q10. J Am Coll Nutr 2001;20:591-8.

Bertelli A, Ronca G. Carnitine and coenzyme Q10: biochemical properties and functions, synergism and complementary action. Int J Tissue React 1990;12:183-6.

Langsjoen PH, Langsjoen AM. Overview of the use of CoQ10 in cardiovascular disease. Biofactors. 1999;9(2-4):273-84.

Weis M, Mortensen SA, Rassing MR, et al. Bioavailability of four oral coenzyme Q10 formulations in healthy volunteers. Mol Aspects Med 1994;15:s273-80.

Yamamoto Y, Yamashita S. Plasma ratio of ubiquinol and ubiquinone as a marker of oxidative stress. Mol Aspects Med. 1997;18 Suppl:S79-84.

Fuke C, Krikorian SA, Couris RR. Coenzyme Q10: a review of essential functions and clinical trials. US Pharmacist 2000;25:28-41.

Overvad K, Diamant B, Holm L, Holmer G, Mortensen SA, Stender S. Coenzyme Q10 in health and disease. Eur J Clin Nutr. 1999 Oct;53(10):764-70.

Dallner G, Sindelar PJ. Regulation of ubiquinone metabolism. Free Radic Biol Med 2000;29:285-94.

Hanaki Y, Sugiyama S, Ozawa T, et al. Coenzyme Q10 and coronary artery disease. Clin Investig 1993;71:112-5.

Mortensen SA. Coenzyme Q10 as an adjunctive therapy in patients with congestive heart failure. JACC 2000;36:304-5.

Khatta M. The effect of coenzyme Q10 in patients with congestive heart failure. Ann Intern Med 2000;132:636-40.

Baggio E, Gandini R, Plauncher AC, et al. Italian multicenter study on the safety and efficacy of coenzyme Q10 as adjunctive therapy in heart failure. CoQ10 Drug Surveillance Investigators. Mol Aspects Med 1994;15 Suppl:S287-94.

Greenberg S, Frishman WH. Co-enzyme Q10: a new drug for cardiovascular disease. J Clin Pharmacol 1990;30:596-608.

Sinatra ST. Coenzyme Q10: a vital therapeutic nutrient for the heart with special application in congestive heart failure. Conn Med. 1997 Nov;61(11):707-11.

Hofman-Bang C, Rehnqvist N, Swedberg K, et al. Coenzyme Q10 as an adjunctive treatment of congestive heart failure. J Card Fail 1995;1:101-7.

Oda T. Recovery of the systolic time intervals by coenzyme Q10 in patients with a load-induced cardiac dysfunction. Mol Aspects Med. 1997;18 Suppl:S153-8.

Soja AM, Mortensen SA. Treatment of congestive heart failure with coenzyme Q10 illuminated by meta-analyses of clinical trials. Mol Aspects Med 1997;18:S159-68.

Sinatra ST. Refractory congestive heart failure successfully managed with high dose coenzyme Q10 administration. Mol Aspects Med. 1997;18 Suppl:S299-305.

Kogan AKh, Syrkin AL, Drinitsina SV, Kokanova IV. The antioxidant protection of the heart by coenzyme Q10 in stable stenocardia of effort. Patol Fiziol Eksp Ter. 1999 Oct-Dec;(4):16-9.

Morisco C, Trimarco B, Condorelli M. Effect of coenzyme Q10 therapy in patients with congestive heart failure: A long-term, multicenter, randomized study. Clin Investig 1993;71: S134-6.

Kamikawa T, Kobayashi A, Yamashita T, et al. Effects of coenzyme Q10 on exercise tolerance in chronic stable angina pectoris. Am J Cardiol 1985;56:247-51.

Singh RB, Wander GS, Rastogi A, Shukla PK, Mittal A, Sharma JP, Mehrotra SK, Kapoor R, Chopra RK. Randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial of coenzyme Q10 in patients with acute myocardial infarction. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther. 1998 Sep;12(4):347-53.

Hodgson JM, Watts GF, Playford DA, et al. Coenzyme Q10 improves blood pressure and glycaemic control: a controlled trial in subjects with type 2 diabetes. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2002;56:1137-42.

Syrkin AL, Kogan AKh, Drinitsina SV, Kuznetsov AB, Pechorina EA, Frenkel EE, Kuleshova NN, Golovnia LD. The use of the antioxidant coenzyme Q10 as a cytoprotection variant in ischemic heart disease. Klin Med (Mosk). 1998;76(7):24-8.

Andersen CB, Henriksen JE, Hother-Nielsen O, et al. The effect of coenzyme Q10 on blood glucose and insulin requirement in patients with insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. Mol Aspects Med. 1997;18 Suppl:S307-9.

Singh RB, Niaz MA, Rastogi SS, et al. Effect of hydrosoluble coenzyme Q10 on blood pressures and insulin resistance in hypertensive patients with coronary artery disease. J Hum Hypertens 1999;13:203-8.

Langsjoen P, Willis R, Folkers K. Treatment of essential hypertension with coenzyme Q10. Mol Aspects Med 1994;S265-72.

Kontush A, Reich A, Baum K, Spranger T, Finckh B, Kohlschutter A, Beisiegel U. Plasma ubiquinol-10 is decreased in patients with hyperlipidaemia. Atherosclerosis. 1997 Feb 28;129(1):119-26.

Iwamoto Y, Nakamura R, Folkers K, Morrison RF. Study of periodontal disease and coenzyme Q. Res Commun Chem Pathol Pharmacol 1975;11:265-71. J Am Coll Nutr 1998;17:75-8.

Hanioka T, Tanaka M, Ojima M, et al. Effect of topical application of coenzyme Q10 on adult periodontitis. Molec Aspects Med 1994;15:S241-8.

Burke BE, Neuenschwander R, Olson RD. Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of coenzyme Q10 in isolated systolic hypertension. South Med J 2001;94:1112-7.
Boitier E, Degoul F, Desguerre I, et al. A case of mitochondrial encephalomyopathy associated with a muscle coenzyme Q10 deficiency. J Neurol Sci 1998;156:41-6. J Am Coll Nutr 1998;17:75-8.

Rozen TD, Oshinsky ML, Gebeline CA, et al. Open label trial of coenzyme Q10 as a migraine preventive. Cephalalgia 2002;22:137-41.

Lister, RE. An open, pilot study to evaulate the potential benefits of coenzyme Q10 combined with Ginkgo biloba extract in fibromyalgia syndrome. J Int Med Res 2002;30:195-9.

Portakal O, Ozkaya O, Erden Inal M, et al. Coenzyme Q10 concentrations and antioxidant status in tissues of breast cancer patients. Clin Biochem 2000;33:279-84.

Shults CW, Oakes D, Kieburtz K, et al. Effects of coenzyme Q10 in early Parkinson disease: evidence of slowing of the functional decline. Arch Neurol 2002;59:1541-50.

Shults C, et al. Effects of coenzyme Q10 in early parkinson disease. Arch Neurol 1998;4:505-6.

Folkers K, Simonsen R. Two successful double-blind trials with coenzyme Q10 (vitamin Q10) on muscular dystrophies and neurogenic atrophies. Biochem Biophys Acta. 1995;1271:281-6.

de Rijke YB, Bredie SJ, Demacker PN, et al. The redox status of coenzyme Q10 in total LDL as an indicator of in vivo oxidative modification. Studies on subjects with familial combined hyperlipidemia. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 1997;17:127-33.

Malm C, Svensson M, Ekblom B, et al. Effects of ubiquinone-10 supplementation and high intensity training on physical performance in humans. Acta Physiol Scand 1997;161:379-84.

Watts GF, Castelluccio C, Rice-Evans C, et al. Plasma coenzyme Q (ubiquinone) concentrations in patients treated with simvastatin. J Clin Pathol 1993;46:1055-7.

Folkers K, et al. Lovastatin decreases coenzyme Q levels in humans. Proc Natl Acad Sci 1990;87:8931-4.

Ghirlanda G, Oradei A, Manto A, et al. Evidence of plasma CoQ10-lowering effect by HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors: A double blind, placebo-controlled study. J Clin Pharmacol 1993;33:226-9.

Mortensen SA, Leth A, Agner E, et al. Dose-related decrease of serum coenzyme Q10 during treatment with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors. Mol Aspects Med 1997;18:S137-44.

2. Ingredient Name: L-Carnitine Fumarate

Used For / Claims: L-Carnitine Fumarate is the most bioavailable, patented L-Carnitine available. It plays the important role of transporting free fatty acids across the cell membrane (for energy production). L-Carnitine is found in all huan tissues, especially cardiac and skeletal muscle muscle. It is synthesized in the liver, kidneys, and brain from the amino acids methionine and lysine. Approximately 98% of L-Carnitine in the body is found in cardiac and skeletal muscle, with the remaining 2% being stored in the brain, kidney, and liver.

L-Carnitine is a vitamin-like compound which has the unique ability to transport long-chain fatty acids into energy producing units within cells called mitochondria so that fat can be “burned” and used to produce energy. The energy which L-Carnitine unleashes through its action at the cellular level in our body, allows us to maximize our ability to achieve optimal health, and experience an overall feeling of well-being.

L-Carnitine is made in only small amounts by the body, and not found in sufficient quantities in most people’s diets unless they consume large amounts of red meat, which is the best source of this essential nutrient. L-Carnitine supplementation is recommended by health professionals for a wide variety of conditions associated with impaired fat utilization and energy production, as well as in healthy individuals for the purpose of weight loss, or for enhancing exercise tolerance and physical performance.

Significant health benefits in relation to the cardiovascular system have been observed with L-Carnitine supplementation. Normal (healthy) heart function requires an adequate supply of Carnitine. Due to improved use of fat and improved energy production, Carnitine helps prevent the build-up of toxic fatty acid metabolites, which can adversely affect cellular function. As we age, levels of Carnitine in the body may decline, making supplementation with this heart-healthy nutrient vital for optimal heart performance.

L-Carnitine’s primary functions include:

· The transport of free fatty acids across the mitochondrial membrane, important for energy production
· Activating the enzyme pyruvate dehydrogenase, important for glucose metabolism
· Maintaining an proper ratio of fatty acetyl-CoA to free CoA in the mitochondria

L-Carnitine is used for:

· Anorexia
· Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
· Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)
· Chronic obstructive pulmonary disorders
· Circulatory disorders
· Diabetes
· Enhancing athletic endurance
· Enhancing athletic performance
· Hyperlipidemia
· Hyperthyroidism
· Intermittent claudication
· Peripheral vascular disease
· Ulcerative conditions
· Pre-term and low birth-weight infants

Dosage/Safety: L-Carnitine has been recommended at doses up to 6 grams per day after myocardial infarction. At higher doses, some people experience gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea, stomach cramps, heartburn, and diarrhea.

References:

Bertelli A, Ronca G. Carnitine and coenzyme Q10: biochemical properties and functions, synergism and complementary action. Int J Tissue React 1990;12:183-6.

Ames BN., A role for supplements in optimizing health: the metabolic tune-up. Arch Biochem Biophys. 2004 Mar 1;423(1):227-34.

Chung MK., Vitamins, supplements, herbal medicines, and arrhythmias. Cardiol Rev. 2004 Mar-Apr;12(2):73-84.

Kelley DE, Goodpaster B, Wing RR, Simoneau JA. Skeletal muscle fatty acid metabolism in association with insulin resistance, obesity, and weight loss. Am J Physiol. 1999 Dec;277(6 Pt 1):E1130-41.

Mingrone G, Greco AV, Capristo E, et al. L-carnitine improves glucose disposal in type 2 diabetic patients. J Am Coll Nutr 1999;18:77-82.

Papamandjaris AA, MacDougall DE, Jones PJ. Medium chain fatty acid metabolism and energy expenditure: obesity treatment implications. Life Sci. 1998;62(14):1203-15.

Fukao T, Lopaschuk GD, Mitchell GA., Pathways and control of ketone body metabolism: on the fringe of lipid biochemistry. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2004 Mar;70(3):243-51.

Nuesch R, Rossetto M, Martina B. Plasma and urine carnitine concentrations in well-trained athletes at rest and after exercise. Influence of L-carnitine intake. Drugs Exp Clin Res 1999;25:167-71.

Heinonen OJ. Carnitine and physical exercise. Sports Med 1996;22:109-32.

Simoneau JA, Veerkamp JH, Turcotte LP, Kelley DE. Markers of capacity to utilize fatty acids in human skeletal muscle: relation to insulin resistance and obesity and effects of weight loss. FASEB J. 1999 Nov;13(14):2051-60.

Bertelli A, Cerrati A, Giovannini L, et al. Protective action of L-carnitine and coenzyme Q10 against hepatic triglyceride infiltration induced by hyperbaric oxygen and ethanol. Drugs Exp Clin Res 1993;19:65-8.

Tanaka Y, Sasaki R, Fukui F, Waki H, Kawabata T, Okazaki M, Hasegawa K, Ando S., Acetyl-L-carnitine supplementation restores decreased tissue carnitine levels and impaired lipid metabolism in aged rats. J Lipid Res. 2004 Apr;45(4):729-35. Epub 2004 Jan 01.

Campos Y, Arenas J. Muscle carnitine deficiency associated with zidovudine-induced mitochondrial myopathy. Ann Neurol 1994;36:680-1.

Bartlett K, Eaton S., Mitochondrial beta-oxidation. Eur J Biochem. 2004 Feb;271(3):462-9.

Hurot JM, Cucherat M, Haugh M, Fouque D. Effects of L-carnitine supplementation in maintenance hemodialysis patients: a systematic review. J Am Soc Nephrol 2002;13:708-14.

Chang B, et al. L-Carnitine inhibits cisplatin-induces injury of the kidney and small intestine. Arch Biochem Biophys. 2002;405:55.

Famularo G, De Simone C, Cifone G. Carnitine stands on its own in HIV infection treatment. Arch Intern Med 1999;159:1143-4.

Mintz M. Carnitine in human immunodeficiency virus type 1 infection/acquired immune deficiency syndrome. J Child Neurol 1995;10:S40-4.

Tomassini V, Pozzilli C, Onesti E, Pasqualetti P, Marinelli F, Pisani A, Fieschi C., Comparison of the effects of acetyl L-carnitine and amantadine for the treatment of fatigue in multiple sclerosis: results of a pilot, randomised, double-blind, crossover trial. J Neurol Sci. 2004 Mar 15;218(1-2):103-8.

Singh RB, Niaz MA, Agarwal P, et al. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of L-carnitine in suspected acute myocardial infarction. Postgrad Med J 1996;72:45-50.

Vescovo G, et al. L-Carnitine: a potential treatment for blocking apoptosis and preventing skeletal muscle myopathy in heart failure. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol. 2002;283:C802-10.

Ghidini O, Azzurro M, Vita G, Sartori G. Evaluation of the therapeutic efficacy of L-carnitine in congestive heart failure. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther Toxicol 1988;26:217-20.

Atar D, et al. Carnitine – from cellular mechanisms to potential clinical applications in heart disease. Eur J Clin Invest 1997;27:973-6.

Effects of L-carnitine and its derivatives on postischemic cardiac function, ventricular fibrillation and necrotic and apoptotic cardiomyocyte death in isolated rat hearts., Cui J, Das DK, Bertelli A, Tosaki A. Mol Cell Biochem. 2003 Dec;254(1-2):227-34.

Cacciatore L, Cerio R, Ciarimboli M, et al. The therapeutic effect of L-carnitine in patients with exercise-induced stable angina: a controlled study. Drugs Exp Clin Res 1991;17:225-35.

Breitkreutz R, et al. Effect of carnitine on muscular glutamate uptake and intramuscular glutathione in malignant diseases. Br J Cancer 2000:82;399-403.

Selimoglu MA, Yagci RV., Plasma and liver carnitine levels of children with chronic hepatitis B. J Clin Gastroenterol. 2004 Feb;38(2):130-3.

Plioplys AV, Plioplys S. Amantadine and L-carnitine treatment of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Neuropsychobiology 1997;35:16-23.

Vermeulen RC, Scholte HR., Exploratory open label, randomized study of acetyl- and propionylcarnitine in chronic fatigue syndrome. Psychosom Med. 2004 Mar-Apr;66(2):276-82.

Sole MJ, Jeejeebhoy KN. Conditioned nutritional requirements and the pathogenesis and treatment of myocardial failure. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care 2000;3:417-24.

Arsenian MA. Carnitine and its derivatives in cardiovascular disease. Progress Cardiovasc Dis 1997;40:265-86.

Frayn KN., The glucose-fatty acid cycle: a physiological perspective. Biochem Soc Trans. 2003 Dec;31(Pt 6):1115-9.

Benvenga S, Ruggeri RM, Russo A, et al. Usefulness of L-carnitine, a naturally occurring peripheral antagonist of thyroid hormone action, in iatrogenic hyperthyroidism: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. J Clin Encocrinol Metab 2001;86:3579-94.

Krahenbuhl S, Reichen J. Carnitine metabolism in patients with chronic liver disease. Hepatology 1997;25:148-53.

Sweeney JD, Arduini A., L-carnitine and its possible role in red cell and platelet storage. Transfus Med Rev. 2004 Jan;18(1):58-65.

Berthillier G, Eichenberger D, Carrier HN, et al. Carnitine metabolism in early stages of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Clin Chim Acta 1982;122:369-75.

Jeulin C, Lewin LM. Role of free L-carnitine and acetyl-L-carnitine in post-gonadal maturation of mammalian spermatozoa. Hum Reprod Update 1996;2:87-102.

Comhaire FH, Mahmoud A., The role of food supplements in the treatment of the infertile man. Reprod Biomed Online. 2003 Oct-Nov;7(4):385-91.

Brevetti G, Chiariello M, Ferulano G, et al. Increases in walking distance in patients with peripheral vascular disease treated with L-carnitine: a double-blind, cross-over study. Circulation 1988;77:767-73.

3. Ingredient Name: Vitamin C (as ascorbyl palmitate)

Used For / Claims: Vitamin C plays a role in immune function and infection resistance. It acts as an antioxidant, decreasing oxidants in gastric juice, decreasing lipid peroxidation, and decreasing oxidative DNA and protein damage.

Vitamin C plays an important part in numerous physiological functions:

· As an antioxidant in oxidation/reduction reactions
· Cellular respiration
· The breakdown of cholesterol into bile acids
· As a cofactor in the formation of carnitine, dopamine, norepinephrine, thyroxin, and tryptophan.
· The formation of fats and proteins
· Carbohydrate metabolism
· Iron metabolism

Dosage/Safety: Vitamin C, when used appropriately, is very safe. 250 mg daily of vitamin C, combined with vitamin A, beta-carotene, vitamin E, selenium, and coenzyme Q-10 improves antioxidant defenses and diminishes oxidative stress in people immune-compromised conditions. High dosages (above 2 grams per day) of vitamin C are associated with some adverse effects, including abdominal cramps, diarrhea, acid indigestion, nausea, and headache.

References:

Johnston CS, Thompson LL. Vitamin C status of an outpatient population. J Am Coll Nutr 1998;17:366-70.

Sauberlich HE. Pharmacology of vitamin C. Annu Rev Nutr 1994;14:371-91.

Ness AR, Powles JW, Khaw KT. Vitamin C and cardiovascular disease: a systematic review. J Cardiovasc Risk 1996;3:513-521.

Waters DD, et al. Effects of hormone replacement therapy and antioxidant vitamin supplements on coronary atherosclerosis in postmenopausal women: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA 2002;288:2432-40.

Byers T, Guerrero N. Epidemiologic evidence for vitamin C and vitamin E in cancer prevention. Am J Clin Nutr 1995;62:1385S-92S.

Prasad KN, Kumar A, Kochupillai V, Cole WC. High doses of multiple antioxidant vitamins: essential ingredients in improving the efficacy of standard cancer therapy. J Am Coll Nutr. 1999 Feb;18(1):13-25.

Bodner C, Godden D, Brown K, Little J, Ross S, Seaton A. Antioxidant intake and adult-onset wheeze: a case-control study. Aberdeen WHEASE Study Group. Eur Respir J. 1999 Jan;13(1):22-30.

Hodis HN, Mack WJ, LaBree L, et al. Serial coronary angiographic evidence that antioxidant vitamin intake reduces progression of coronary artery atherosclerosis. JAMA 1995;273:1849-54.

Giugliano D. Dietary antioxidants for cardiovascular prevention. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis. 2000 Feb;10(1):38-44.

Hirashima O, Kawano H, Motoyama T, et al. Improvement of endothelial function and insulin sensitivity with vitamin C in patients with coronary spastic angina: possible role of reactive oxygen species. J Am Coll Cardiol 2000;35:1860-6.

Nyyssonen K, Parviainen MT, Salonen R, et al. Vitamin C deficiency and risk of myocardial infarction: prospective population study of men from eastern Finland. BMJ 1997;314:634-8.

Fuller CJ, Grundy SM, Norkus EP, Jialal I. Effect of ascorbate supplementation on low density lipoprotein oxidation in smokers. Atherosclerosis. 1996 Jan 26;119(2):139-50.

Sahyoun NR, Jacques PF, Russell RM. Carotenoids, vitamins C and E, and mortality in an elderly population. Am J Epidemiol 1996;144:501-11.

Halliwell B. Oxidative stress, nutrition and health. Experimental strategies for optimization of nutritional antioxidant intake in humans. Free Radic Res. 1996 Jul;25(1):57-74.

Gaede P, Poulsen HE, Parving HH, Pedersen O. Double-blind, randomised study of the effect of combined treatment with vitamin C and E on albuminuria in Type 2 diabetic patients. Diabet Med 2001;18:756-60.

Sinclair AJ, Taylor PB, Lunec J, Girling AJ, Barnett AH. Low plasma ascorbate levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus consuming adequate dietary vitamin C. Diabet Med. 1994 Nov;11(9):893-8.

Pohle T, Brzozowski T, Becker JC, et al. Role of reactive oxygen metabolites in aspirin-induced gastric damage in humans: gastroprotection by vitamin C. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2001;15:677-87.

Jacob RA, Pianalto FS, Agee RE. Cellular ascorbate depletion in healthy men. J Nutr. 1992 May;122(5):1111-8.

Klipstein-Grobusch K, den Breeijen JH, Grobbee DE, et al. Dietary antioxidants and peripheral arterial disease: the Rotterdam study. Am J Epidemiol 2001;154:145-9.

Sharma DC, Mathur R. Correction of anemia and iron deficiency in vegetarians by administration of ascorbic acid. Indian J Physiol Pharmacol. 1995 Oct;39(4):403-6.

Langlois M, Duprez D, Delanghe J, et al. Serum vitamin C concentration is low in peripheral arterial disease and is associated with inflammation and severity of atherosclerosis. Circulation 2001;103:1863-8.

Jialal I, Grundy SM. Effect of combined supplementation with alpha-tocopherol, ascorbate, and beta carotene on low-density lipoprotein oxidation. Circulation. 1993 Dec;88(6):2780-6.

Block G, Mangels AR, Norkus EP, et al. Ascorbic acid status and subsequent diastolic and systolic blood pressure. Hypertension 2001;37:261-7.

Simon JA, Hudes ES. Relationship of ascorbic acid to blood lead levels. JAMA 1999;281:2289-93.

Vatassery GT, Smith WE, Quach HT. Ascorbic acid, glutathione and synthetic antioxidants prevent the oxidation of vitamin E in platelets. Lipids. 1989 Dec;24(12):1043-7.

Mullan BA, Young IS, Fee H, McCance DR. Ascorbic acid reduces blood pressure and arterial stiffness in type 2 diabetes. Hypertension 2002;40:804-9.
Taddei S, et al. Vitamin C improves endothelium-dependent vasodilation by restoring nitric oxide activity in essential hypertension. Circulation 1998;97:2222-9.

Duffy SJ, Gokce N, Holbrook M, et al. Treatment of hypertension with ascorbic acid. Lancet 1999;354:2048-9.

Ascherio A, Rimm EB, Hernan MA, et al. Relation of consumption of vitamin E, vitamin C, and carotenoids to risk for stroke among men in the United States. Ann Intern Med 1999;130:963-70.

Taylor A, Jacques PF, Nadler D, Morrow F, Sulsky SI, Shepard D. Relationship in humans between ascorbic acid consumption and levels of total and reduced ascorbic acid in lens, aqueous humor, and plasma. Curr Eye Res. 1991 Aug;10(8):751-9.

Gorton HC, Jarvis K. The effectiveness of vitamin C in preventing and relieving the symptoms of virus-induced respiratory infections. J Manipulative Physiol Ther 1999;22:530-3.

Varma SD, Devamanoharan PS, Morris SM. Prevention of cataracts by nutritional and metabolic antioxidants. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 1995 Jan;35(1-2):111-29.

4. Ingredient Name: Vitamin E (as acetate, hydrosoluble)

Used For / Claims: Vitamin E, unlike most nutrients, does not play a specific role in metabolic processes. Vitamin E's therapeutic benefits are primarily attributed to its antioxidant properties that prevent free radical oxidation of the cells and tissues.

A Statement for Healthcare Professionals From the American Heart Association:
“ Considerable evidence now suggests that oxidants are involved in the development and clinical expression of coronary heart disease and that antioxidants may contribute to disease resistance. Consistent with this view is epidemiological evidence indicating that greater antioxidant intake is associated with lower disease risk. Although this increased antioxidant intake generally has involved increased consumption of antioxidant-rich foods, some recent observational studies have suggested the importance of levels of vitamin E intake achievable only by supplementation.”19, 20

Excerpted from: Antioxidant Consumption and Risk of Coronary Heart Disease: Emphasis on Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and ß-Carotene. AHA Science Advisory. (Circulation. 1999;99:591-595.) © 1999 American Heart Association, Inc.

Vitamin E is used for:

· Asthma
· Bronchitis
· Cardiovascular disease
· Cataracts
· Common cold
· Glaucoma
· High blood pressure
· Immunostimulation
· Infections
· Strength and stamina
· Wound healing

Dosage/Safety: Vitamin E is safe when used appropriately. The maximum vitamin E derived from diet alone provides approximately 60 IU per day. The ‘new’ RDI of vitamin E for adults was recently increased to 22 IU of natural vitamin E per day. Many studies have recommended up to 800 IU per day, and a few have recommended as much as 1800 IU per day for short periods.

References:

19. Stampfer MJ, Hennekens CH, Manson JE, Colditz GA, Rosner B, Willett WC. Vitamin E consumption and the risk of coronary heart disease in women. N Engl J Med. 1993;328:1444–1449.

20. Rimm EB, Stampfer MJ, Ascherio A, Giovannucci E, Colditz GA, Willett WC. Vitamin E consumption and the risk of coronary heart disease in men. N Engl J Med. 1993;328:1450–1456.

de la Fuente M, Ferrandez MD, Burgos MS, et al. Immune function in aged women is improved by ingestion of vitamins C and E. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 1998;76:373-80.

Pallast EG, Schouten EG, de Waart FG, et al. Effect of 50- and 100-mg vitamin E supplements on cellular immune function in noninstitutionalized elderly persons. Am J Clin Nutr 1999;69:1273-81.

Behl C. Vitamin E and other antioxidants in neuroprotection. Int J Vitam Nutr Res. 1999 May;69(3):213-9.

Ravaglia G, Forti P, Maioli F, et al. Effect of micronutrient status on natural killer cell immune function in healthy free-living subjects aged >/=90 y. Am J Clin Nutr 2000;71:590-8.

Fenech M, Dreosti I, Aitken C. Vitamin-E supplements and their effect on vitamin-E status in blood and genetic damage rate in peripheral blood lymphocytes. Carcinogenesis. 1997 Feb;18(2):359-64.

Liu M, Wallmon A, Olsson-Mortlock C, et al. Mixed tocopherols inhibit platelet aggregation in humans: potential mechanisms. Am J Clin Nutr 2003;77:700-6.

Bruckner G. Microcirculation, vitamin E and omega 3 fatty acids: an overview. Adv Exp Med Biol. 1997;415:195-206.

Spencer AP, Carson DS, Crouch MA. Vitamin E and coronary artery disease. Arch Intern Med 1999;159:1313-20.

Stephens NG, Parsons A, Schofield PM, et al. Randomised controlled trial of vitamin E in patients with coronary disease: Cambridge Heart Antioxidant Study. Lancet 1996;347:781-6.

Tomeo AC, Geller M, Watkins TR, et al. Antioxidant effects of tocotrienols in patients with hyperlipidemia and carotid stenosis. Lipids 1995;30:1179-83.

Ferns G, Williams J, Forster L, et al. Cholesterol standardized plasma vitamin E levels are reduced in patients with severe angina pectoris. Int J Exp Pathol 2000;81:57-62.

Kelly FJ, Mudway I, Blomberg A, et al. Altered lung antioxidant status in patients with mild asthma. Lancet 1999;354:482-3.

Bursell SE, Clermont AC, Aiello LP, et al. High-dose vitamin E supplementation normalizes retinal blood flow and creatinine clearance in patients with type 1 diabetes. Diabetes Care 1999;22:1245-51.

Evans JR, Henshaw K. Antioxidant vitamin and mineral supplementation for preventing age-related macular degeneration. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2000;(2):CD000253.

Ziaei S, Faghihzadeh S, Sohrabvand F,et al. A randomised placebo-controlled trial to determine the effect of vitamin E in treatment of primary dysmenorrhoea. BJOG 2001;108:1181-3.

London RS, Sundaram GS, Murphy L, Goldstein PJ. The effect of alpha-tocopherol on premenstrual symptomatology: a double-blind study. J Am Coll Nutr 1983;2:115-22.

Tengerdy RP. Vitamin E, immune response, and disease resistance. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 1989;570:335-44.

Paolisso G, Di Maro G, Galzerano D, et al. Pharmacological doses of vitamin E and insulin action in elderly subjects. Am J Clin Nutr 1994;59:1291-6.

Copp RP, Wisniewski T, Hentati F, Larnaout A, Ben Hamida M, Kayden HJ. Localization of alpha-tocopherol transfer protein in the brains of patients with ataxia with vitamin E deficiency and other oxidative stress related neurodegenerative disorders. Brain Res. 1999 Mar 20;822(1-2):80-7.

Tutuncu NB, Bayraktar M, Varli K. Reversal of defective nerve conduction with vitamin E supplementation in type 2 diabetes: a preliminary study. Diabetes Care 1998;21:1915-8.

Packer L, Weber SU, Rimbach G. Molecular aspects of alpha-tocopherol antioxidant action and cell signaling. J Nutr 2001;131:369S-73S.

Edmonds SE, Winyard PG, Guo R, et al. Putative analgesic activity of repeated oral doses of vitamin E in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Results of a prospective placebo controlled double blind trial. Ann Rheum Dis 1997;56:649-55.

Vatassery GT. Vitamin E and other endogenous antioxidants in the central nervous system. Geriatrics. 1998 Sep;53 Suppl 1:S25-7.

Masaki KH, Losonczy KG, Izmirlian G, et al. Association of vitamin E and C supplement use with cognitive function and dementia in elderly men. Neurology 2000;54:1265-72.

Floyd RA. Antioxidants, oxidative stress, and degenerative neurological disorders. Proc Soc Exp Biol Med. 1999 Dec;222(3):236-45.

Suleiman SA, Ali ME, Zaki ZM, et al. Lipid peroxidation and human sperm motility: protective role of vitamin E. J Androl 1996;17:530-7.

Kanter M. Free radicals, exercise and antioxidant supplementation. Proc Nutr Soc. 1998 Feb;57(1):9-13.

Goldstein RK, Zillikens D, Miller K, Elsner P, Burg G. Local treatment of disseminated granuloma anulare with a vitamin E emulsion. Hautarzt 1991;42:176-8.

Woodall AA, Britton G, Jackson MJ. Dietary supplementation with carotenoids: effects on alpha-tocopherol levels and susceptibility of tissues to oxidative stress. Br J Nutr. 1996 Aug;76(2):307-17.

Lohr JB, Caligiuri MP. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study of vitamin E treatment of tardive dyskinesia. J Clin Psychiatry 1996;57:167-73.

Geva E, Bartoov B, Zabludovsky N, et al. The effect of antioxidant treatment on human spermatozoa and fertilization rate in an in vitro fertilization program. Fertil Steril 1996;66:430-4.