Adaptogens: The word adaptogen, is used by herbalists to refer to a natural herb product that increases the body's resistance to stresses such as trauma, anxiety and bodily fatigue. In the past they have been called rejuvenating herbs, qi tonics, rasayanas, or restoratives. Knowledge about adaptogens dates back thousands of years to ancient India and China, but serious scientific study did not begin until the late 1940s. In 1947, Dr. Nikolai Lazarev defined an adaptogen as an agent that allows the body to counter adverse physical, chemical, or biological stressors by raising nonspecific resistance toward such stress, thus allowing the organism to “adapt” to the stressful circumstances. In short, adaptogens are plant & herbal xxtracts that help the body to “adapt” and normalize, creating an overall sense of well-being and balance. See AdaptoGreen+.
Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP): ATP is a molecule which serves as the universal energy source for all plants and animals. In your body, ATP breaks down into adenosine diphosphate plus a separate phosphate group. This releases energy, which is used to power your body's cells. During periods of inactivity, the reverse reaction takes place, and the phosphate group is reattached to the molecule using energy obtained from food. In this way, the ATP molecule is continuously being recycled by your body.
American Ginseng: American Ginseng is also known as Anchi ginseng, Canadian ginseng, North American ginseng, Ontario ginseng, P. quincefolium, red berry, ren shen, sang, tienchi ginseng, Wisconsin ginseng. American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolium) is a species of ginseng native to eastern North America. It is a perennial dicot of the family Araliaceae. The plant's forked root and leaves were traditionally used for medicinal purposes by Native Americans. Since the 1800s, the roots have been collected by "'sang hunters," and sold to Chinese or Hong Kong traders, who often pay very high prices for particularly old wild roots. American Ginseng was formerly particularly widespread in the Appalachian region (and adjacent forested regions such as Pennsylvania and New York State), but due its popularity the wild plant has been overharvested, and is thus rare in most parts of the United States. It is also grown commercially, under artificial shade, in fields in Wisconsin and Minnesota, and usually harvested after three to four years when ripe. The root of American ginseng is light tan and gnarled. Its resemblance to the human body may have led herbalists to the folkloric belief that ginseng could cure all ills. In fact the word "panax" from Panax Ginseng means all illness, and ginseng has been used across the ages in many different cultures as a "cure-all". American Ginseng increases overall vitality and longevity, benefits insomnia, and helpful in removing toxins from the body. See AdaptoGreenPlus+.
Amino Acids: Amino Acids are the essential vitamins and minerals your system needs to function properly. They make-up nearly 75% of your body chemistry. They play an integral role in the body’s ability to build and repair cellular structures. Since we do not store Amino Acids in our bodies, we must consume a sufficient amount of them through whole foods and natural supplements such as AdaptoGreenPlus+. In chemistry, an amino acid is any molecule that contains both amine and carboxyl functional groups. These are molecules where the amino and carboxylate groups are attached to the same carbon, which is called the α–carbon. The various alpha amino acids differ in which side chain (R group) is attached to their alpha carbon. This can vary in size from just a hydrogen atom in glycine, through a methyl group in alanine, to a large heterocyclic group in tryptophan.
Anthocyanidins: Anthocyanidins are powerful antioxidants that have been linked to improved blood vessel health in animals and humans. Anthocyanidins are found in blue/purple and red fruits and vegetables, such as blueberries, blackberries, plums, cranberries, raspberries, red onions, red potatoes, red radishes, strawberries, etc.
Antioxidant: Antioxidants are chemical substances that help protect against cell damage from free radicals. Well known antioxidants include vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenoids, and flavonoids.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple Cider Vinegar is a very safe and effective weight loss aid with no known side effects. Obtained from the fermentation of apple juice, it is extremely rich in minerals and vitamins. Known to help detoxify the liver which plays a vital role in weight loss. Many people claim apple cider vinegar as a superior, yet natural metabolism booster and appetite suppressant. Some nutritionists advise that apple cider vinegar is most effective when paired with B vitamins which are synergistically present in Weight Science.
Ascorbic Acid: Ascorbic acid is an organic acid with antioxidant properties. Its appearance is white to light yellow crystals or powder. It is water soluble. The L-enantiomer of ascorbic acid is commonly known as vitamin C. The name is derived from a- and scorbuticus (Scurvy) as a shortage of this molecule may lead to scurvy. In 1937 the Nobel Prize for chemistry was awarded to Walter Haworth for his work in determining the structure of ascorbic acid (shared with Paul Karrer, who received his award for work on vitamins), and the prize for Physiology or Medicine that year went to Albert Szent-Györgyi for his studies of the biological functions of L-ascorbic acid. At the time of its discovery in the 1920s it was called hexuronic acid by some researchers.
Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), also known as Indian ginseng, Winter cherry, Ajagandha, Kanaje Hindi and Samm Al Ferakh, is a plant in Solanaceae or nightshade family. It grows as a stout shrub that reaches a height of 170cm. Like the tomato which belongs to the same family, ashwagandha bears yellow flowers and red fruit, though its fruit is berry-like in size and shape. Ashwagandha grows prolifically in India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Ashwagandha replenishes nervous system, restores muscle/body tissue, and is useful for Chemotherapy patients. All parts of the plant are used in herbal medicine. In Ayurveda, the fresh roots are sometimes boiled in milk, prior to drying, in order to leach out undesirable constituents. The berries are used as a substitute for rennet, to coagulate milk in cheese making. Ashwagandha in Sanskrit means "horse's smell", probably originating from the odor of its root which resembles that of sweaty horse. The species name somnifera means "sleep-bearing" in Latin, indicating it was considered a sedative, but it has been also used for sexual vitality and as an adaptogen. Some herbalists refer to ashwagandha as Indian ginseng, since it is used in ayurvedic medicine in a way similar to that ginseng is used in traditional Chinese medicine. See AdaptoGreen+.
Astragalas Root: Astragalus, also known as "Astragalus membranaceus", is a beautiful plant from the pea family. Astragalus is native to northern China and has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries, with it's first recorded use transcribed over 2000 years ago. This powerful tonic root has been traditionally used to invigorate vital energy, and used as an immuno-stimulant. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, Astragalus should be implemented into a persons daily diet while the individual is healthy, and not only in time of sickness. This is said to build and strengthen the immune response, and carry the body through normal routines of healthy response. Astragulas helps increase metabolism and stamina while combating fatigue. See AdaptoGreen+ for more information.
Beta-sitosterol: β-sitosterol is one of several phytosterols with chemical structures similar to that of cholesterol. It is white in colour and waxy in nature.
Bioflavonoids: Bioflavonoids are reported to have numerous health benefits. They are the natural pigments in fruits and vegetables. There have been many scientific reports about bioflavonoids but none have produced firm reports that confirm this statement. Researchers have reported over eight hundred different bioflavonoids. Most of these are the yellow pigments found in citrus fruit as well as other fruits and vegetables, these are referred to as flavonoids.
Body Mass Index (BMI): Body Mass Index is a standardized ratio of weight to height, and is often used as a general indicator of health. Your BMI can be calculated by dividing your weight (in kilograms) by the square of your height (in meters). A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered normal for most adults. Higher BMI's may indicate that an individual is overweight or obese.
Calcium: Of all the essential minerals in the human body, Calciumis the most abundant. Calcium helps the body form bones and teeth and is required for blood clotting, transmitting signals in nerve cells, and muscle contraction. Calcium helps prevent osteoporosis; of the two to three pounds of calcium contained in the human body, 99% is located in the bones and teeth.
Calcium also seems to play a role in lowering blood pressure, and has been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women.
Calorie: Calorie is a unit of measurement for energy. One calorie is formally defined as the amount of energy required to raise one cubic centimeter of water by one degree Centigrade. For purpose of measuring the amount of energy in food, nutritionists most commonly use kilocalories (equal to 1000 calories), and label the measurement either as "kcal" or as "Calories" with a capital "C". One kcal is also equivalent to approximately 4.184 kilojoules.
Campesterol: Phytosterols are plant sterols, mainly campesterol and sitosterol, and their respective stanols (5 alpha-saturated derivatives), which chemically resemble cholesterol. They are present in a normal diet bur less than 0.1% of serum sterols are plant sterols. Phytosterols inhibit intestinal cholesterol absorption, and fat-soluble plant stanol esters were introduced as a functional food for lowering serum cholesterol. Inhibition of the intestinal absorption of cholesterol stimulates cholesterol synthesis, a factor which limits serum cholesterol lowering to about 10% with phytosterols. Enrichment of the diet with plant stanol esters reduces absorption and serum concentrations of both cholesterol and plant sterols, whereas enrichment of the diet with plant sterol esters, especially in combination with statins, lowers serum cholesterol but increases serum plant sterol levels. Long-term cholesterol lowering, needed for the prevention of coronary heart disease, may be successful with plant stanol esters, which lower serum cholesterol in both genders over at least a year. Like cholesterol, campesterol and other phytosterols are transported by lipoproteins, mainly by LDL, and secreted unchanged in bile..
Carotenoids: Carotenoids are natural fat-soluble pigments found in certain plants. Carotenoids provide the bright red, orange, or yellow coloration of many vegetables, serve as antioxidants, and can be a source for vitamin A activity.
Chamomile Root: The true or Common Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis) is a low-growing plant with leaves and flowers that grow a foot high. Chamomile is a natural sedative and is revered by tea lovers. It acts to soothe nerves as well as improve digestion and induce sleep. Historically, chamomile has long been used as a tranquilizer and has become a household necessity in reducing anxiety and improving the quality of sleep. It is also said that chamomile can be helpful in treating attention deficit disorder. There are 3 types of Chamomile, which are Common, German, and Stinking. See MySleep, an all natural sleep aid that contains Chamomile.
Chlorophyll: Chlorophyll is a proteinous compound that uses photosynthesis to convert the sunlight into chemical energy. Dr. Birscher, a research scientist states that chlorophyll “increases the function of the heart, impacts the intestines, uterus, lungs and vascular system. Chlorophyll is so powerful it can purify the blood, support a healthy digestive tract, and detoxify many of our body’s congested vital organs. See AdaptoGreen+ for more information.
Cholecalciferol: Cholecalciferol is a form of Vitamin D, also called vitamin D3.
Cholesterol: Cholesterol is a soft, waxy substance present in all parts of the body including the nervous system, skin, muscle, liver, intestines and heart. It is both made by the body and obtained from animal products in the diet. Cholesterol is manufactured in the liver for normal body functions including the production of hormones, bile acid and Vitamin D. It is transported in the blood to be used by all parts of the body. In the blood stream, cholesterol combines with fatty acids to form high-density (HDL) and low-density (LDL) lipoproteins. LDL's are considered the "bad cholesterol", since they can stick together to form plaque deposits on the walls of your blood vessels, leading to atherosclerosis. One-fourth of the adult population in the U.S. has high blood cholesterol levels. More than half of the adult population has blood cholesterol levels that exceed the desirable range, as specified by the medical community. Elevated cholesterol often begins in childhood. Some children may be at higher risk than others due to a family history of high cholesterol.
Chondroitin: Chondroitin or Chondroitin sulfate is a sulfated glycosaminoglycan composed of a chain of alternating sugars (N-acetylgalactosamine and glucuronic acid). A chondroitin chain can have over 100 individual sugars, each of which can be sulfated in variable positions and quantities. Understanding the functions of such diversity in chondroitin sulfate and related glycosaminoglycans is a major goal of glycobiology. Chondroitin sulfate is an important structural component of cartilage and provides much of its resistance to compression. Along with glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate has become a widely used dietary supplement for treatment of osteoarthritis. See Joint-Science for more information.
Chromium Picolinate: Chromium Picolinate is an essential trace mineral found in many foods. Chromium Picolinate is widely used for its ability to burn carbohydrates and fat. Many experts believe it helps to regulate insulin production, which in turn normalizes blood sugar levels. When blood sugar is controlled, excessive appetite and cravings are greatly reduced. See Weight Science for more information.
Cobalamine: Cobalamine or Vitamin B12 prevents anemia by regulating red blood cell formation and iron utilization. It aids in digestion and cell formation, promotes fertility, and prevents nerve damage by maintaining the sheaths that cover them.
Copper: Copper is a trace element that is essential for most animals, including humans. It is needed to absorb and utilize iron. The influence of copper upon health is due to the fact it is part of enzymes, which are proteins that help biochemical reactions occur in all cells. Copper is involved in the absorption, storage and metabolism of iron. The symptoms of a copper deficiency are similar to iron deficiency anemia. Copper may be absorbed by both the stomach and small intestinal mucosa, with most absorbed by the small intestine. Copper is found in the blood bound to proteins.
Daily Values (DV): Daily Values are the dietary reference values that are used on all current US Nutrition Facts labels. These values were determined by the FDA to best represent the minimum needs of the general population. For many nutrients, DV's will exceed your actual minimum needs, since they conservatively allow for the minimum needs of more demanding conditions, such as pregnancy or lactation. Most DV's are derived from Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI) and other recommendations made by the Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine (IOM).
For use on food labels, Daily Values formally obsolete all other previous used references, including Daily Reference Values (DRV), Reference Daily Intakes (RDI), and Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA).
Dietary Fiber: Dietary fiber comes from the thick cell wall of plants. It is an indigestible complex carbohydrate. Fiber is divided into two general categories: water soluble and water insoluble.
Soluble fiber has been shown to lower cholesterol. However, in many studies, the degree of cholesterol reduction was quite modest. For unknown reasons, diets higher in insoluble fiber (mostly unrelated to cholesterol levels) have been shown to correlate better with protection against heart disease in human trials. Soluble fibers can also lower blood sugar levels, and some doctors believe that increasing fiber decreases the body’sneed for insulin—a good sign for diabetics. Insoluble fiber acts as a stool softener, which speeds digestion through the intestinal tract. For this reason, insoluble fiber is an effective treatment for constipation. The reduction in "transit time" has also been thought to partially explain the link between a high fiber diet and a reduced risk of colon cancer.
Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI): Dietary Reference Intake is a set of guidelines set up in 1997 to give more detailed guidance than the Recommended Dietary Allowance system which preceded it. It was a collaboration between the USA and Canada. The DRI is composed of Estimated Average Requirements (EAR), expected to satisfy the needs of 50% of the people in that age group, Reference Daily Intake (RDI), Adequate intake (AI), where no RDI has been established, Tolerable upper intake levels (UL), to caution against excessive intake of nutrients (like vitamin D) that can be harmful in large amounts.
ENT COMPLEX: ENT COMPLEX is short for Enhanced Neuro-Transmitter Delivery System. It is proprietary blend researched and designed to assist the body and brain in enriching and transporting the necessary nutrients for optimal absorption. This complex is intended to support the above ingredients and maximize their ability to relax and quiet the mind in order to achieve a deep, restful sleep, while ensuring you will wake up feeling renewed and revitalized. For more information visit MySleep.
Enzyme: Enzymes are complex proteins that assist or enable chemical reactions to occur. "Digestive" enzymes, for example, help your body break food down into chemical compounds that can more easily be absorbed. Thousands of different enzymes are produced by your body.
Essential Amino Acids: Essential Amino Acids are amino acids that your body does not have the ability to synthesize. Hundreds of different amino acids exist in nature, and about two dozen of them are important to human nutrition. Nine of these – histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, theronine, tryptophan, and valine – are considered essential, since they must be supplied by your diet. While the essential amino acids requirements vary among different individuals, the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has proposed a standard that specifies the minimum amount of each essential amino acid that should be supplied per gram of protein consumed. This standard is the reference by which protein quality is determined. By comparing the limiting (i.e. lowest level) amino acid in a food with this standard, the amino acid score is determined. A score of 100 or above indicates a complete or high-quality protein; a score below 100 indicates a lower quality protein.
Essential Fatty Acids: Essential fatty acids or EFAs, are fatty acids that cannot be constructed within an organism from other components as there are no known biochemical pathways capable of producing them. They can only be obtained in the diet if they are to be incorporated into human biological processes. There are two families of EFAs, Omega 3's (linolenic acid) and Omega 6's (linoleic acid). Essential fatty acids play a part in many metabolic processes, and there is evidence to suggest that low levels of essential fatty acids, or the wrong balance of types among the essential fatty acids, may be a factor in a number of illnesses. Last but not least the Omega-9 (Oleic Acid),Omega 9 is essential but technically not an EFA, because the human body can manufacture a limited amount, provided essential EFAs are present. Monounsaturated oleic acid lowers heart attack risk and arteriosclerosis, and aids in cancer prevention.
Fatty Acids: Fatty acids are individual isomers of what we more commonly call "fats". There are potentially hundreds of different fatty acids, but just a few dozen that are commonly found in the foods we eat.
Flavonoids (bioflavinoids): Flavonoids are a class of water-soluble pigments that are found in many plants. A few thousand different flavonoids have so far been identified. While not labeled as essential nutrients, many of these compounds serve as antioxidants or play other important roles in maintaining the health of your body. Some researchers break flavonoids down into subclasses that include isoflavones, anthocyanidins, flavans, flavonols, flavones, and flavanones. However, these subclassifications are not universally recognized.
Folate: Folate (the anion form) are forms of the water-soluble Vitamin B9. These occur naturally in food and can also be taken as supplements. Folate gets its name from the Latin word folium ("leaf"). The term folate is used in two different ways. Folate, a member of the B-vitamin family, is a collective term for a number of chemical forms which are structurally related and which have similar biological activity to folic acid. Folate is also the term which is used for the anionic form of folic acid. Folic acid or pteroylglutamic acid (PGA) is comprised of para-aminobenzoic acid linked at one end to a pteridine ring and at the other end to glutamic acid.
Folic Acid: Folic acid is a B vitamin. It is used in our bodies to make new cells. The B vitamin folic acid helps prevent birth defects.
GABA: Gamma Aminobutyric Acid or GABA for short has been studied in many health arenas and continues to impress researchers with it’s balancing effects on the brain. GABA is actually an amino acid classified as the most important inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain because it suppresses over-excitation. It acts as a balancer for the brain and helps induce relaxation and sleep. GABA is found in the MySleep all natural sleep aid.
Garcinia Cambogia: Garcinia Cambogia is a pumpkin like fruit rich in a substance called hydroxycitric acid (HCA). HCA is widely known for its powerful ability to block the conversion of sugars and starches into fats. Studies show that the weight loss benefits of garcinia cambogia are maximized when used in conjunction with other herbs and natural ingredients. See Weight Diet for more information.
Garlic Extract: Medical studies have shown that garlic can lower cholesterol, prevent dangerous blood clots, reduce blood pressure, prevent cancer, and protect against bacterial and fungal infections. Known scientifically as Allium sativum, garlic contains more than 100 biologically useful chemicals, including substances with such strange names as alliin, alliinase, allicin, S-allylcysteine, diallyl sulfide, allyl methyl trisulfide. Garlic ranks highly among foods that help prevent disease, largely due to its high content of organosulfur compounds and antioxidant activity.
Glucosamine: Glucosamine is an amino sugar that is an important precursor in the biochemical synthesis of glycosylated proteins and lipids. Glucosamine is also commonly used as a treatment for osteoarthritis. Since glucosamine is a precursor for glycosaminoglycans, and glycosaminoglycans are a major component of joint cartilage, supplemental glucosamine may help to rebuild cartilage and treat arthritis. See Joint-Science for more information.
Glycemic Index (GI): The Glycemic Index is a dietary index that's used to rank carbohydrate-based foods. The Glycemic Index predicts the rate at which the ingested food will increase blood sugar levels.
Glycemic Load (GL): Glycemic Load is equal to the Glycemic Index of a food times the number of grams of carbohydrates in the serving of food that's being eaten. Glycemic Load is believed to correlate more directly to blood sugar level changes than Glycemic Index.
Glycine: Glycine is an amino acid often used for its ability to act as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, which can balance brain activity and normalize its functions. See MySleep for more information
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Green Tea Extract: Green Tea is one of nature’s superfoods, leading the list of thousands of top 10 foods to add to your diet for a plethora of benefits. Studies show green tea as a natural fat burner and metabolism booster (that does not increase heart rate). Nutritional experts around the world recommend green tea for cancer patients, heart disease, HIV infections, urinary tract infections, and many other conditions. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition discovered that the green tea extract has many beneficial health properties that rise above the general theory that these improvements are simply related to the natural caffeine content in the tea. See Weight Science for more information.
HDL: High-density lipoproteins (HDL) form a class of lipoproteins, varying somewhat in their size, that carry cholesterol from the body's tissues to the liver. About one-third to a quarter of blood cholesterol is carried by HDL.
Histidine: Histidine is one of the 20 most common natural amino acids present in proteins. In the nutritional sense, in humans, histidine is considered an essential amino acid, but mostly only in children. The amino acid is a precursor for histamine and carnosine biosynthesis. Histidine is found in fruits such as bananas and grapes, meat and poultry, and milk and milk products. It is also found in root vegetables and all green vegetables, though in lesser quantities.
Hoodia Gordonii: Hoodia is a cactus-like plant found in the dry sands of the Kalahari Desert of Africa. The San Tribe (African Bushmen) have used it for thousands of years to curb hunger as they tour the vast region of the Kalahari Desert to hunt for food. By chewing or ingesting this plant they are able to curb their hunger for as long as 24 hours. See Weight Science for more information.
Insulin: Insulin is a hormone that's secreted by your pancreas to help regulate blood sugar level and promotes glycogen storage. Individuals with diabetes mellitus supplement insulin to make up for their body's inability to produce sufficient amounts.
Insoluble Fiber: Insoluble fiber is a very powerful GI tract stimulant. Unlike fat, however, you cannot simply minimize your insoluble fiber intake, as this will leave you with a seriously unhealthy diet. n general, if a plant food (no animal products contain fiber) seems rough, stringy, has a tough skin, hull, peel, pod, or seeds, be careful, as it's likely very high in insoluble fiber. This is not a comprehensive list of insoluble fiber foods by any means but it should give you the general idea. Some examples are whole wheat flour, whole wheat bread, whole wheat cereal, Wheat bran, whole grains, whole grain breads, whole grain cereals, granola, seeds, nuts, popcorn, beans and lentils, blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, cranberries, etc., grapes and raisins, cherries, pineapple, peaches, nectarines, apricots, pears with skins, apples, rhubarb, melons, oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes, dates and prunes, spinach, lettuce, kale, mesclun, collards, arugala, watercress, etc., whole peas, snow peas, snap peas, pea pods, green beans, kernel corn, bell peppers, eggplant, celery, onions, shallots, leeks, scallions, garlic, cabbage, bok choy, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, tomatoes, cucumbers, sprouts, alfalfa, sunflower, radish, fresh herbs, and the list goes on.
International Unit (IU): IU is a measurement unit that is primarily used on nutrition labeling for vitamin A. One IU is equivalent to 0.3 mcg of retinol, 0.6 mcg of beta-carotene, or 1.2 mcg other provitamin-A carotenoids
Iron: Iron is one of the human body’s essential minerals. It forms part of hemoglobin, the component of the blood that carries oxygen throughout the body. People with iron-poor blood tire easily because their bodies are starved for oxygen. Iron is also part of myoglobin, which helps muscles store oxygen. With insufficient iron, adenosine triphosphate (ATP; the fuel the body runs on) cannot be properly synthesized. As a result, some iron-deficient people can become fatigued even when they are not anemic.
Isoflavones: Isoflavones are natural plant hormones that can be found in many foods but the best known source is the soy bean. The soy isoflavones are responsible for most of the soy health benefits. The Soy bean is a plant cultivated as foodstuff whose health properties have recently been discovered. Another source of isoflavones is red clover. As opposed to soy beans, red clover is normally not eaten but the isoflavones are extracted in industrial processes and used to make isoflavones supplements.
Isoleucine: Isoleucine is one of the 20 basic amino acids, and forms part of the structure of almost all proteins. It is coded for in DNA. Its chemical composition is identical to that of leucine, but the arrangement of its atoms is slightly different, resulting in different properties. Nutritionally, in humans, isoleucine is an essential amino acid. Isoleucine is a hydrophobic amino acid. Rich sources of isoleucine are eggs, chicken, pork, mutton, pulses, soya beans, cottage cheese, milk, piyal seeds, cashew nuts, and cereal grains.
Isomer: An isomer is a variation in the arrangement of atoms in two or more otherwise similar chemical compounds.
Joule: A Joule is the (SI) unit or "The International System of Units" of work or energy, defined to be the work done by a force of one newton acting to move an object through a distance of one meter in the direction in which the force is applied. Equivalently, since kinetic energy is one half the mass times the square of the velocity, one joule is the kinetic energy of a mass of two kilograms moving at a velocity of 1 m/s. The joule is named after the British physicist James Prescott Joule (1818-1889), who demonstrated the equivalence of mechanical and thermal energy in a famous experiment in 1843. Joule pronounced his name "jowl", but the unit is usually pronounced "jool" or "jew'l".
Kilojoule: 1,000 joules.
LDL: Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is a class of animal lipoprotein particles that varies in size and contents which carries fatty acid molecules in blood and around the body). It is the final stage of VLDL (very low-density lipoprotein) which is produced by the liver. The LDL contains the apolipoproteins B-100. It also contains antioxidative vitamins such as vitamin E or carotinoids. It is commonly referred to as bad cholesterol as high LDL levels can lead to cardiovascular disease.
Leucine: Leucine is one of the 20 common amino acids coded for by DNA. It is isomeric with isoleucine. Nutritionally, in humans, leucine is an essential amino acid. Leucine is the most common amino acid found in proteins, and is essential for optimal growth during infancy and childhood. In adults it is essential for maintaining nitrogen equilibrium. It is suspected that Leucine plays a part in maintaining muscles by equalizing the synthesis and breakdown of proteins. The major food sources of leucine are whole grains and milk products. Eggs, pork, beef, chicken, pulses, soybeans, and leaf vegetables are good sources of leucine.
Lipid: A general classification to denote water-insoluble compounds, such as fatty acids and sterols.
L-Theanine: L-Theanine is a free form amino acid clinically proven to reduce stress, and widely known to improve the quality of sleep and reduce the harsh side effects of caffeine. L-Theanine is historically known as a component of many teas and research suggests it may work synergistically with GABA to increase the inhibitory neurotransmitter process in the brain. See MySleep.
L-Tyrosine: L-Tyrosine is an amino acid that is necessary for the structure of almost all of the proteins in the body. It acts as a precursor for many neurotransmitters, including L-Dopa and is known to ease the adverse effects of physical and emotional stress. See the product MySleep for more information.
Lysine: Lysine is an essential amino acid, which means that it is essential to human health but cannot be manufactured by the body. For this reason, lysine must be obtained from food. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. Lysine is important for proper growth and it plays an essential role in the production of carnitine, a nutrient responsible for converting fatty acids into energy and helping to lower cholesterol. Lysine appears to help the body absorb and conserve calcium and it plays an important role in the formation of collagen, a substance important for bones and connective tissues including skin, tendon, and cartilage.
Macronutrient: Nutritionists often group nutrients into two subclasses, called macronutrients and micronutrients. Macronutrients refer to those nutrients that form the major portion of your consumption and contribute energy to your diet. Macronutrients include carbohydrates, fats, protein, and alcohol. Sometimes water is also considered to be a macronutrient. All other nutrients are consumed in smaller amounts, and are labeled as micronutrients.
Magnesium: Magnesium is an essential mineral for the human body. It is needed for protein, bone, and fatty acid formation, making new cells, activating B vitamins, relaxing muscles, blood clotting and forming adenosine triphosphate (ATP). The production and use of insulin also requires magnesium.
Under certain circumstances magnesium has been found to improve vision in people with glaucoma. Similarly, magnesium has demonstrated an ability to lower blood pressure.
Maltitol: Maltitol is a sugar free, reduced calorie sweetener made from corn. It has a sugar-like taste and sweetness. Maltitol has about half the calories of sugar and is useful for making a variety of sugar free and reduced calorie foods.
Manganese: Manganese is an essential trace mineral that is required in small amounts to manufacture enzymes necessary for the metabolism of proteins and fat. It also supports the immune system, blood sugar balance, and is involved in the production of cellular energy, reproduction and bone growth.
Manganese works with Vitamin K to support normal blood clotting. Working with the B-complex vitamins, manganese helps promote a positive outlook when faced with stress, frustration, and anxiety.
Mannitol: Mannitol is used as a sweetener for people with diabetes. Since mannitol has a negative heat of solution, it is used as a sweetener in "breath-freshening" candies, the cooling effect adding to the fresh feel. In doses larger than 20g, mannitol acts as a laxative, and is sometimes sold as a laxative for children.
Melatonin: Melatonin is perhaps the most widely recognized sleep ingredient for its ablility to regulate the bodies sleep cycles, Melatonin is fondly referred to as the “all-natural nightcap”. Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland and is known to aid biorhythm regulation which determines sleep patterns. Research also suggests Melatonin is a powerful natural antioxidant. Since the body’s production of melatonin decreases with age, it is necessary to supplement with high quality products such as MySleep.
Menadione: Menadione was formerly sometimes called vitamin K3. Despite the fact that it can serve as a precursor to various types of vitamin K, menadione is generally not used as a nutritional supplement.
Methionine: Methionine is an essential nonpolar amino acid, and a lipotropic. L-methionine is a protein amino acid. It is classified as an essential amino acid for humans and therefore must be supplied in the diet. n addition to its role as a precursor in protein synthesis, L-methionine participates in a wide range of biochemical reactions, including the production of S-adenosylmethionine (SAM or SAMe), L-cysteine, glutathione, taurine and sulfate.
Microgram (mcg): Microgram is a unit of measure equal to one one-millionth of a gram (g).
Micronutrient: Micronutrients are essential elements needed for life in small quantities. They include dietary minerals and Vitamins.
Milligram (mg): Milliogram is a unit of measure equal to one one-thousandth of a gram (g).
Monosaccharides: Monosaccharides are simple carbohydrates that consist of a single sugar molecule. Examples include glucose, fructose, and galactose.
Monounsaturated Fat: monounsaturated fats are fatty acids with one double-bonded carbon in the molecule, with all of the others single-bonded carbons, in contrast to polyunsaturated fatty acids which have more than one double bond. Natural sources of monounsaturated fat include avocados, canola oil, olive oil, peanut oil and other nuts, safflower oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil, etc.
Mucuna Pruriens: Mucuna Pruriens is also called the velvet bean or cowhage, this plant extract acts as a natural neurotransmitter in the brain and increases the brains dopamine levels which are essential in order to regulate sleep cycles. Mucuna Pruriens is popular in its use with patients who suffer from ADHD and Parkinson’s Disease because it has been shown to balance the brain’s activity in order to improve mental clarity, concentration, and improved memory. Mucuna Pruriens is found in MySleep.
Niacin: Niacin, also known as nicotinic acid or vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays an essential role in energy metabolism in the living cell and DNA repair. The designation vitamin B3 also includes the corresponding amide nicotinamide, or niacinamide.
NLEA Serving: An NLEA Serving is a standardized serving size that arose from the U.S. government's Nutrition Labeling and Education Act. The NLEA regulations are governed by the FDA, and restrict the typical serving size that can be claimed on a U.S. Nutrition Facts label. The intent of this regulation is to deter food manufactures from misleading the public by using serving sizes that are unrealistically small or large. Food manufacturers must now report serving sizes that are reasonably close to the NLEA standard. This standard is different for each type of food, and applies to virtually all foods except meats.
Nutrient Density: Nutrient density is the measurement of the amount of a nutrient per fixed portion of food.
Oxygen Therapy: Oxygen therapy can play a vital role in maintaining your well-being. Oxygen, along with food, is the primary nutrient that cells use to generate energy. With oxygen therapy, the energy production is through oxidation of the unhealthy cells. The burn is incomplete without the main fuel, oxygen. While the oxidation process takes place throughout your system, anti oxidants are protecting the cells. Antioxidants also act as a cooling or regulating system for maintaining the metabolic temperature at a constant level, which prevents over oxidation from occurring. Your system, then has to remove the debris left behind from the oxidation process.
Pantothenic Acid: Pantothenic acid, a member of the B-vitamin family, is an essential nutrient in human nutrition. It is sometimes referred to as vitamin B5. Pantothenic acid is involved in a number of biological reactions, including the production of energy, the catabolism of fatty acids and amino acids, the synthesis of fatty acids, phospholipids, sphingolipids, cholesterol and steroid hormones, and the synthesis of heme and the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. It also appears to be involved in the regulation of gene expression and in signal transduction.
Passion Flower Root: This wonderful herb is best used in balancing the nervous system and reducing motor nerve activity. It has been widely utilized as an anti-inflammatory and natural pain-killer, and is recommended for those who are discontinuing use of sleeping drugs and/or overcoming alchohol dependency. Passion flower has become increasingly popular due to the knowledge of its tranquilizing effect, without the side effects of depression or disorientation. See MySleep for more information.
Phenylalanine: Phenylalanine is an essential alpha-amino acid. It exists in two forms, a D and an L form, which are enantiomers (mirror-image molecules) of each other. It has a benzyl side chain. Its name comes from its chemical structures consisting of a phenyl group substituted for one of the hydrogens in the side chain of alanine. Because of its phenyl group, phenylalanine is an aromatic compound. At room temperature, it is a white, powdery solid.
Forms of Phenylalanine
L-phenylalanineL-Phenylalanine (LPA) is an electrically-neutral amino acid, one of the twenty common amino acids used to biochemically form proteins, coded for by DNA. L-phenylalanine is used in living organisms, including the human body, where it is an essential amino acid. L-phenylalanine can also be converted into L-tyrosine, another one of the twenty protein-forming amino acids. L-tyrosine is converted into L-DOPA, which is further converted into dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine (latter three are known as the catecholamines).
D-phenylalanineD-phenylalanine (DPA), can be synthesized artificially. D-phenylalanine can be converted only into phenylethylamine. D-phenylalanine is a non-protein amino acid, meaning that it does not participate in protein biosynthesis. D-phenylalanine and other D-amino acids are, however, found in proteins, in small amounts, particularly aged proteins and food proteins that have been processed. The biological functions of D-amino acids remain unclear. Some D-amino acids, such as D-phenylalanine, may have pharmacologic activity.
DL-phenylalanineDL-phenylalanine is a racemic mixture of phenylalanine - it contains 50 % each of D and L enantiomers. DL-Phenylalanine is marketed as a nutritional supplement for its putative analgesic and antidepressant activities.
Phosphate: Phosphate is a salt or ester of phosphoric acid.
Phosphorus: Phosphorus is an essential mineral that is usually found in nature combined with oxygen as phosphate. Most phosphate in the human body is in bone, but phosphate-containing molecules (phospholipids) are also important components of cell membranes and lipoprotein particles, such as good (HDL) and bad (LDL) cholesterol. Small amounts of phosphate are engaged in biochemical reactions throughout the body. The role of phosphate-containing molecules in aerobic exercise reactions has suggested that phosphate loading might enhance athletic performance, though controlled research has produced inconsistent results.
Phylloquinone: Phylloquinone is often called vitamin K1. It is a fat-soluble vitamin that is stable to air and moisture but decomposes in sunlight. It is found naturally in a wide variety of green plants.
Phytonadione: Phytonadione is a man-made form of vitamin K. Phytonadione is a clear, yellow to amber, viscous, and nearly odorless liquid. It is insoluble in water, soluble in chloroform and slightly soluble in ethanol.
Phytosterol: Phytosterol is any plant-derived sterol. Phytosterols are a group of steroid alcohol, phytochemicals naturally occurring in plants. They are white powders with mild, characteristic odor, insoluble in water and soluble in alcohols. They have many applications as food additives, and in medicine and cosmetics.
Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates, made up of multiple sugar molecules. Examples of polysaccharides include cellulose, starch, and dextrin
Polyunsaturated Fat: Polyunsaturated fat is an abbreviation of polyunsaturated fatty acid. Polyunsaturated fat, along with monounsaturated fat are "healthy fats," the amount of which in one's daily diet should be near 45 g (in a 2000 calorie-per-day diet). Polyunsaturated fat can be found mostly in grain products, fish and sea food such as herring, salmon, mackerel, and halibut, soybeans, and fish oil. Foods like mayonnaise and soft margarine may also be good sources, but you should always check the nutritional label first. Polyunsaturated fat is necessary for the body and protects against illness. Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil, fish and seafood lower the total amount of fat in the blood, which can lower blood pressure and decrease the risk of getting cardiovascular diseases. Omega-6 fatty acids in sunflower oil and safflower oil also reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, but can contribute to allergies and inflammation.
Potassium: Potassium is an essential mineral needed to regulate water balance, levels of acidity and blood pressure. Potassium, together with sodium-potassium inside the cell and sodium in the fluid surrounding the cell, work together for the nervous system to transmit messages as well as regulating the contraction of muscles. People with low blood levels of potassium who are undergoing heart surgery are at an increased risk of developing heart arrhythmias and an increased need for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Potassium is also required for carbohydrate and protein metabolism.
Protein: Protein is one of the basic components of food and makes all life possible. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. All of the antibodies and enzymes, and many of the hormones in the body are proteins. They provide for the transport of nutrients, oxygen and waste throughout the body. They provide the structure and contracting capability of muscles. They also provide collagen to connective tissues of the body and to the tissues of the skin, hair and nails.
Q10: Q10 is short for Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ 10) or ubiquinone, Q10 is essentially a vitamin or vitamin-like substance. CoQ10 was first isolated from beef heart mitochondria by Dr. Frederick Crane of Wisconsin, U.S.A., in 1957. CoQ10 is known to be highly concentrated in heart muscle cells due to the high energy requirements of this cell type. The severity of heart failure correlates with the severity of CoQ10 deficiency. The human body makes Coenzyme Q10 naturally, Coenzyme Q10 also acts as an antioxidant and helps cells to produce energy. Coenzyme Q10 is known o stimulate the immune system and protects the heart from damage caused by some chemotherapy drugs.
Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA): Dietary Allowance (RDA). See RDI which is based on the Dietary Reference Intake (DRI).
Reference Daily Intakes (RDI): Reference Daily Intake (RDI) is the daily dietary intake level of a nutrient considered sufficient to meet the requirements of nearly all (97–98%) healthy individuals in each life-stage and gender group. The RDI is used to determine the Recommended Daily Value (RDV) which is printed on food labels in the U.S. and Canada. RDI was formerly called Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA). RDI is based on the Dietary Reference Intake (DRI).
Red Yeast Rice Extract: Red yeast rice is an Asian dietary supplement that is made by fermenting red yeast in rice. Red yeast rice has just recently gained recognition in the United States as a cholesterol-lowering agent. Red yeast rice owes its cholesterol-lowering effects to compounds known as statins that are produced as a byproduct of the fermentation process. Red yeast rice extract has a number of heart-healthy benefits. It seems to help reduce total cholesterol levels, lower levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol, increase levels of HDL ("good") cholesterol, and lower levels of unhealthy fats called triglycerides.
Retinol: Retinol is vitamin A. Carotene compounds found in egg yolks, butter and cream, etc. are gradually converted by the body to vitamin A (retinol). A form of vitamin A called retinal is responsible for transmitting light sensation in the retina of the eye. Deficiency of vitamin A leads to night blindness.
Retinol Activity Equivalent (RAE): The Retinol Activity Equivalent is a relatively new unit for expressing vitamin A activity. One mcg of RAE is equivalent to mcg of all-trans-retinol, 12 mcg of all-trans-beta-carotene, or 24 mcg of other provitamin A carotenoids. These RAE conversion factors are based on recent studies that show that the conversion of provitamin A carotenoids to retinol is only half as great as previously thought.
Rhodiola Rosea: Rhodiola rosea, also known as Roseroot, is a plant in the family Crassulaceae that grows in cold regions of the world. These include much of the Arctic, the mountains of Central Asia, the Rocky Mountains, and mountainous parts of Europe, such as the Alps, Pyrenees, Carpathian Mountains, British Isles, Scandinavia and Iceland. Rhodiola Rosea is known to balance hormonal health, and aid in weight reduction. Rhodiola rosea is very effective for improving mood and alleviating depression. Russian research shows that it improves both physical and mental performance, reduces fatigue, and prevents high altitude sickness. See AdaptoGreen+ for more information.
Riboflavin: Riboflavin or Vitamin B2 is a water-soluble vitamin, helps the body release energy from protein, fat, and carbohydrates during metabolism.
SAMe (S-adenosyl-L-methionine): SAMe, a natural metabolite of the amino acid methionine, plays a key role in dozens of chemical reactions in the body.
Satiety: Satiety refers to the feeling of satisfaction or "fullness" produced by the consumption of food.
Saturated Fat: A saturated fat is a fat or fatty acid in which there are no double bonds between the carbon atoms of the fatty acid chain. Saturated fats are usually solid at room temperature. Diets high in saturated fat have been shown to correlate with an increased incidence of atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease. Dehydrogenation converts saturated fats to unsaturated fats, while hydrogenation accomplishes the reverse. Common saturated fats include butter, lard, palm oil, coconut oil, cottonseed oil and Palm Kernel Oil. Saturated fat is found in dairy products, especially cream and cheese and in meat, as well as in many prepared foods. Some studies suggest replacing saturated fats in the diet with unsaturated fats will increase one's ratio of HDL to LDL serum cholesterol. Alternatives to saturated fats include monosaturated fats such as olive oil and polyunsaturated fats such as canola oil and corn oil.
Selenium: Selenium is an essential trace mineral. Selenium activates an antioxidant enzyme called glutathione peroxidase, which may help protect the body from cancer. Yeast-derived forms of selenium have induced "apoptosis" (programmed cell death) in cancer cells in test tubes and in animals. One study found that men consuming the most dietary selenium developed 65% fewer cases of advanced prostate cancer than did men with low levels of selenium intake. Selenium is also essential for healthy immune functioning. Even in a non-deficient population of elderly people, selenium supplementation has been found to stimulate the activity of white blood cells. Selenium is also needed to activate thyroid hormones. In a placebo-controlled study, selenium supplementation indicated a reduction in disease activity in people with autoimmune thyroiditis (thyroid inflammation). In a double-blind trial, selenium supplementation of infertile men improved the motility of sperm cells and increased the chance of conception.
Siberian Ginseng: Siberian Ginseng is known to ease depression, boost stamina and immune function, and enhance concentration. Siberian ginseng is a genus of the panax (true ginseng) plant. Widely known as an adaptogen, a substance that may help assist people in dealing with physical and emotional stress, Siberian ginseng has been used to increase the capability to peform physical tasks and to relieve stress. See AdaptoGreen+.
Sodium: Sodium is a mineral, an essential nutrient. It helps to maintain blood volume, regulate the balance of water in the cells, and keeps nerves functioning. The kidneys control sodium balance by increasing or decreasing sodium in the urine. One teaspoon of salt contains about 2,300 milligrams of sodium, more than four times the amount the body requires per day. Most Americans consume far more sodium than their bodies need. Many foods contain sodium naturally, and it is commonly added to foods during preparation or processing or as a flavoring agent. Sodium is also found in drinking water, prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications. In the United States, about one in four adults have elevated blood pressure. Sodium intake is only one of the factors known to affect high blood pressure, and not everyone is equally susceptible. The sensitivity to sodium seems to be very individualized. Usually, the older one is the more sensitive they are to salt.
Soluble Fiber: Soluble fiber is not typically found in foods most people think of as fiber, such as bran or raw leafy green vegetables. Soluble fiber is the single greatest dietary aid for preventing Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms in the first place, as well as relieving them once they occur. Soluble fiber is also found in foods commonly thought of as starches, though soluble fiber itself differs from starch as the chemical bonds that join its individual sugar units cannot be digested by enzymes in the human GI tract. Soluble fiber also has no calories because it passes through the body intact..
Sorbitol: Sorbitol, also known as glucitol, is a sugar alcohol the body metabolises slowly. Sorbitol is a sugar substitute often used in diet foods (including diet drinks) and sugar-free chewing gum. It also occurs naturally in many stone fruits and berries from trees of the genus Sorbus[1]. Sorbitol is also referred to as a nutritive sweetener because it provides calories or energy to the diet: 2.6 calories (11 kilojoules) per gram versus the average 4 calories (17 kJ) of sugar and starch, while retaining 50% of the sweetness.
Spirulina: Spirulina is a tiny aquatic plant that offers 60% all-vegetable protein, essential vitamins and phytonutrients such as the antioxidant beta carotene, the rare essential fatty acid GLA, sulfolipids, glycolipids and polysaccharides. Spirulina, also known as arthrospira platensis, is an edible algae that has a long history of safe human consumption and over 30 years of safety testing. There are family species of microalgae such as blue-green algae spirulina and aphanizomenon, and green algae chlorella and dunaliella. For years, researchers in Japan, China, India, Europe, Russia and the USA have been discovering why spirulina is so effective for human and animal health. Hundreds of published studies reveal how spirulina, its unique phytonutrients and its extracts boost the immune system, prevent disease and improve health. Its deep green color comes from its rainbow of natural pigments - chlorophyll (green), phycocyanin (blue) and carotenoids (orange) that harvest the sun's energy. Spirulina's easy to digest nutrients are absorbed quickly to give you one of the world's healthiest super foods that is rich in beta carotene and phytonutrients. See AdaptoGreen+ for more information.
Sterol: A sterol is any of a class of solid cyclic alcohols, found in both plants (e.g. campesterol, stigmasterol, beta-sitosterol) and animals (e.g. cholesterol).
Stigmasterol: Stigmasterol is an unsaturated plant sterol occurring in the plant fats or oils of soybean, calabar bean, and rape seed, and in a number of medicinal herbs, including the Chinese herbs Ophiopogon japonicus, or Mai men dong, and American Ginseng. Stigmasterol is also found in various vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds and unpasteurized milk. It is used as a precursor in the manufacture of synthetic progesterone, a valuable human hormone that plays an important physiological role in the regulatory and tissue rebuilding mechanisms related to estrogen effects, as well as acting as an intermediate in the biosynthesis of androgens, estrogens, and corticoids.
Sugar Alcohol: Sugar alcohols, sometimes called polyols, are a class of carbohydrates that are more slowly or incompletely absorbed by the human digestive system than sugars. Common sugar alcohols include sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, and xylitol. Sugar alcohols contribute less Calories to the diet than most other types of carbohydrates, but may cause digestive discomfort.
Theobromine: Theobromine is an alkaloid compound with a molecular structure similar to caffeine. Theobromine has a mild stimulating effect on humans, and is found in certain foods, such as cocoa and chocolate. Theobromine can be lethal to some animals, including dogs and horses, which metabolize theobromine much more slowly than humans
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Theronine: Threonine is one of the 20 natural amino acids. Nutritionally, in humans, threonine is an essential amino acid. Foods high in threonine are cottage cheese, poultry, fish, meat, lentils, and sesame seeds.
Thiamin: Thiamin or Vitamin B1, a water-soluble vitamin, helps the body release energy from carbohydrates during metabolism. So a person who expends more energy and have a higher intake of calories need more thiamin than those who eat fewer calories. Thiamin also plays a vital role in the normal functioning of the nervous system.
Tocopherol: Tocopherol, Alpha Tocopherol, Tocopherol, Tocopheryl (Acetate, Succinate) or Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects cell membranes and other fat-soluble parts of the body, such as low-density lipoprotein (LDL; “bad” cholesterol) cholesterol, from damage.
Tryptophan: Tryptophan is an amino acid and essential in human nutrition. It is one of the 20 amino acids encoded by the genetic code (as codon UGG). For many organisms tryptophan is an essential amino acid. This means that it cannot be synthesized by the organism and therefore must be part of its diet. Amino acids function as building blocks in protein biosynthesis. Tryptophan is a precursor for serotonin (a neurotransmitter), melatonin (a neurohormone), and niacin. The functional group of tryptophan is indole; see that article for more on its chemical properties. 5-HTP, a metabolite of tryptophan, has been suggested as an aid for epilepsy and depression though clinical trials are inconclusive and lacking. Tryptophan, found as a component of dietary protein, is particularly plentiful in chocolate, oats, bananas, dried dates, milk, yogurt, cottage cheese, red meat, eggs, fish, poultry, sesame, chickpeas, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, spirulina and peanuts. It is found in turkey at a level typical of poultry in general.
Unsaturated Fat: An unsaturated fat is a fat or fatty acid in which there are one or more double bonds between carbon atoms of the fatty acid chain. Such fat molecules are monounsaturated if each contains one double bond, and polyunsaturated if each contain more than one.
Hydrogenation converts unsaturated fats to saturated fats, while dehydrogenation accomplishes the reverse. Unsaturated fats tend to melt at lower temperatures than saturated fats, which tend to be solid at room temperature. Both kinds of unsaturated fat can replace saturated fat in the diet. Substituting unsaturated fats for saturated fats helps to lower levels of total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol in the blood.
Valerian Root: Valerian in Latin stands for “well-being”, this popular plant root is known to reduce insomnia, decrease nervousness and anxiety, and lessen the time it takes to get to sleep. Scientific evidence indicates valerian root can offer a non-addictive, refreshing night sleep. For over 500 years valerian root has been used for its health benefits throughout Europe and the United States, and is recognized as a mild hypotensive herb(for lowering blood pressure), by the World Health Organization (WHO). Valerian has been used as a medicinal herb since at least the time of ancient Greece and Rome. Its therapeutic uses were described by Hippocrates, and in the 2nd century, Galen prescribed valerian for insomnia. In the 16th century, it was used to treat nervousness, trembling, headaches, and heart palpitations. In the middle of the 19th century, valerian was considered a stimulant that caused some of the same complaints it is thought to treat and was generally held in low esteem as a medicinal herb. During World War II, it was used in England to relieve the stress of air raids. In addition to sleep disorders, valerian has been used for gastrointestinal spasms and distress, epileptic seizures, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. See the MySleep product that contains Valerian Root. MySleep is an all natural sleep aid.
Valine: Valine is an amino acid that cannot be synthesized by humans, so it is considered an essential amino acid for human life. Valine is one of the 20 amino acids that make up all human proteins, therefore referred to as a proteinogenic amino acid. Along with leucine and isoleucine, valine is a branched-chain amino acid. Valine is named after the plant valerian. Nutritional sources of valine include cottage cheese, fish, poultry, peanuts, sesame seeds, and lentils.
Vitamin A (Retinol): Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin with multiple functions in the body. It helps cells differentiate, an essential part of cell reproduction. Cells that are not fully differentiated are more likely to undergo pre-cancerous changes. It is a central component for healthy vision; vitamin A nourishes cells in various structures of the eye and is required for the transduction of light into nerve signals in the retina. It is required during pregnancy, stimulating normal growth and development of the fetus by influencing genes that determine the sequential growth of organs in embryonic development. It influences the function and development of sperm, ovaries and placenta and is a vital component of the reproductive process.
Vitamin B1 (Thiamin): Vitamin B1 is a water-soluble vitamin that the body requires to break down carbohydrates, fat and protein. Every cell of the body requires vitamin B1 to form adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Vitamin B1 is also essential for the proper functioning of nerve cells.
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Vitamin B2 is a water-soluble vitamin that helps the body process amino acids and fats, activate vitamin B6 and folic acid, and helps convert carbohydrates to adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Under some conditions, vitamin B2 can act as an antioxidant.
Vitamin B3 (Niacin): Vitamin B3 is required for cell respiration and helps release the energy in carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It also supports proper circulation and healthy skin, functioning of the nervous system, and normal secretion of bile and stomach fluids. It is used in the synthesis of sex hormones, treating schizophrenia and other mental illnesses, and as a memory-enhancer. Nicotinic acid (but not nicotinamide) supplementation improves the blood cholesterol profile, and has been used to flush the body of organic poisons, such as certain insecticides. People report more mental alertness when this vitamin is in sufficient supply. A shortage of niacin may be indicated with symptoms such as canker sores, depression, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, halitosis, headaches, indigestion, insomnia, limb pains, loss of appetite, low blood sugar, muscular weakness, skin eruptions, and inflammation.
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid): Vitamin B5 is a water-soluble vitamin involved in the Kreb’s energy production cycle and is needed for the production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter. Vitamin B5 also triggers the adrenal glands, is essential in transporting and releasing energy from fats, and enables the synthesis of cholesterol, vitamin D, and steroid hormones. Pantethine — a vitamin B5 byproduct — has been shown to lower cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood.
Vitamin B6: Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin and is part of the vitamin B complex. Vitamin B6 plays a role in the synthesis of antibodies by the immune system, which are needed to fight many diseases. It helps maintain normal nerve function and also acts in the formation of red blood cells. Vitamin B6 is also required for the chemical reactions needed to digest proteins. The higher the protein intake, the more the need for vitamin B6. Large doses of vitamin B6 can cause neurological disorders and numbness. Deficiency of this vitamin can cause mouth and tongue sores, irritability, confusion, and depression. Vitamin B6 deficiency is uncommon in the United States.
Vitamin B9 (Folate): Vitamin B9, also known as Folic acid, is a B vitamin necessary for cell replication and growth. Folic acid helps form building blocks of DNA, which holds the body’s genetic information, and building blocks of RNA, needed for protein synthesis. Folic acid is most important, then, for rapidly growing tissues, such as those of a fetus, and rapidly regenerating cells, like red blood cells and immune cells. Folic acid deficiency results in an anemia that responds quickly to folic acid supplements. The need for folic acid increases considerably during pregnancy. Deficiencies of folic acid during pregnancy are associated with low birth weight and an increased incidence of neural tube defects in infants. Most doctors, many other healthcare professionals, and the March of Dimes recommend that all women of childbearing age supplement with 400 mcg per day of folic acid. Such supplementation may protect against the formation of neural tube defects during the time between conception and when pregnancy is discovered.
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamine): Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin needed for normal nerve cell activity, DNA replication, and production of the mood-affecting substance SAMe (S-adenosyl-L-methionine). Vitamin B12 acts with folic acid and vitamin B6 to control homocysteine levels. An excess of homocysteine has been linked to an increased risk of coronary disease, stroke and other diseases such as osteoporosis and Alzheimer’s.
Vitamin B12 deficiency causes fatigue. A small trial reported that even some people who are not deficient in B12 showed a marked increase in energy after vitamin B12 injections. However, the relationship between B12 injections and the energy level of people who are not vitamin B12-deficient has been rarely studied. Oral B12 supplements are unlikely to achieve the same results as injectable B12, because the body has a relatively poor absorption rate for this vitamin.
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid): Vitamin C is an essential water-soluble vitamin that has a wide range of functions in the human body. One of vitamin C’s important functions is acting as an antioxidant, protecting LDL cholesterol from oxidative damage. When LDL is damaged the cholesterol appears to lead to heart disease, but vitamin C acts as an important antioxidant protector of LDL. Vitamin C may also protect against heart disease by reducing the stiffness of arteries and the tendency of platelets to coagulate in the vein. The antioxidant properties also protect smokers from the harmful effects of free radicals. Small doses of Vitamin C taken by nonsmokers before being exposed to smoke have been shown to reduce the free radical damage and LDL cholesterol oxidation associated with exposure to cigarette smoke. Vitamin C has a range of additional functions. Its is needed to make collagen, a substance that strengthens many parts of the body, such as muscles and blood vessels, and plays important roles in healing and as an antihistamine. Vitamin C also aids in the formation of liver bile which helps to detoxify alcohol and other substances. Evidence indicates that vitamin C levels in the eye decrease with age and that vitamin C supplements prevent this decrease, lowering the risk of developing cataracts. Vitamin C has been reported to reduce activity of the enzyme, aldose reductase, which theoretically helps protect people with diabetes. It may also protect the body against accumulation or retention of the toxic mineral, lead. People with recurrent boils (furunculosis) may have defects in white blood cell function that are correctable with vitamin C supplementation.
Vitamin D (Cholecalciferol): Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps maintain blood levels of calcium, by increasing absorption from food and reducing urinary calcium loss. Both functions help keep calcium in the body and therefore spare the calcium that is stored in bones. Vitamin D may also transfer calcium from the bone to the blood, which may actually weaken bones. Though the overall effect of vitamin D on the bones is complicated, some vitamin D is certainly necessary for healthy bones and teeth.
Vitamin D is also produced by the human body during exposure to the ultraviolet rays of the Sun. However, seasonal changes, latitude, time of day, cloud cover, smog and sunscreen can all affect UV exposure. Vitamin D deficiency is more common in northern latitudes, making Vitamin D supplementation more important for residents of those areas. Vitamin D plays a role in immunity and blood cell formation and also helps cells differentiate—a process that may reduce the risk of cancer. From various other studies, researchers have hypothesized that vitamin D may protect people from multiple sclerosis, autoimmune arthritis, and juvenile diabetes. Vitamin D is also necessary to maintain adequate blood levels of insulin. Vitamin D receptors have been found in the pancreas, and some evidence suggests that supplements may increase insulin secretion for some people with adult-onset diabetes.
Vitamin E (Tocopherol): Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects cell membranes and other fat-soluble parts of the body, such as LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol), from damage. Several studies have reported that supplements of natural vitamin E help reduce the risk of heart attacks.
Vitamin E also plays some role in the body’s ability to process glucose. Some trials suggest that vitamin E may help in the prevention and treatment of diabetes. In the last decade, the functions of vitamin E have been further clarified. In addition to its antioxidant functions, vitamin E has now been shown to directly affect inflammation, blood cell regulation, connective tissue growth and genetic control of cell division.
Vitamin K (Phylloquinone): Vitamin K is necessary for proper bone growth and blood coagulation. Vitamin K accomplishes this by helping the body transport calcium. Vitamin K is used to treat overdoses of the drug warfarin. Also, doctors prescribe vitamin K to prevent excessive bleeding in people taking warfarin but requiring surgery.
There is some evidence that vitamin K2 (menadione), not vitamin K1 (phylloquinone; phytonadione), may improve a group of blood disorders known as myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). These syndromes carry a dramatically increased risk of developing acute myeloid leukemia. Comprehensive trials of K2 for MDS are needed to confirm these auspicious early results.
Wheat Grass Powder: Wheat grass has an abundance of essential nutritious elements. When grown and processed under the optimal conditions such as our manufacturer maintains, wheat grass is widely believed to be one of the most potent leafy green vegetables available. It contains all essential amino acids, as well as chlorophyll, fiber, trace minerals, calcium, Vitamin C, and beta-carotene. It has Essential Fatty Acids which are known to provide intense benefits for the heart, brain, skin, joints, and hormones. Wheat grass is high in oxygen which is a necessary component for the brain and body tissues to function at an optimal level. Increased oxygen absorption in the body is one of the main reasons bodybuilders and athletes rely on wheat grass. Scientific analysis has defined grass grown from wheat as a perfectly complete food. It is helpful in cleansing and rebuilding the body and neutralizing toxins. See AdaptogreenPlus+
White Kidney Bean Extract: White Kidney Bean Extract is shown in studies to block the absorption of starches in the body by interrupting the digestive process that converts starch to sugar. Along with its many values as a food, white kidney bean is believed to be a highly effective supplement in dieting and maintaining weightloss. See Weight Science for more information.
Xylitol: Xylitol, also called wood sugar or birch sugar, is a five-carbon sugar alcohol that is used as a sugar substitute. Xylitol is a naturally occurring sweetener found in the fibers of many fruits and vegetables, including various berries, corn husks, oats, and mushrooms. It can be extracted from corn fiber, birch, raspberries, plums, and corn. Xylitol is roughly as sweet as sucrose but contains 40% less food energy.
Yam Extract: Wild yam extract is often used today as a PMS remedy, and many patients using it have reported relief from menopausal symptoms. Wild yam extract contains a substance called diosgenin that allows it to imitate certain hormones, such as progesterone, thereby helping correct hormonal imbalances in the body. This is the assumed mechanism by which wild yam extract appears to work as a PMS remedy and other menopausal symptoms.
Zinc: Zinc is an essential mineral with a wide variety of functions within the human body. Zinc is a component of over 300 enzymes needed to repair wounds, maintain fertility in adults and growth in children, synthesize protein, help cells reproduce, preserve vision, boost immunity, and protect against free radicals, among other functions. In some trials, zinc lozenges have reduced the duration of colds in adults, though they have not been demonstrated to be effective in children. The ability of zinc to shorten colds may be due to a direct, localized anti-viral action in the throat. A small, preliminary trial has also shown zinc sulfate to be effective for contact dermatitis, a skin rash caused by contact with an allergen or irritant. Zinc can reduce the body’s ability to utilize copper, another essential mineral. The ability to interfere with copper makes zinc an important therapy for people with Wilson’s disease, a genetic condition that causes copper overload. In healthy individuals, however, this effect is best offset by Copper supplementation.
