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Following are some frequently asked general questions about specific Metagenics products: |
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Alapars®
Q: What is Alapars?
A: Alapars features niacinamide combined with N-acetylcysteine (NAC). This formula is designed to promote the health of numerous organ systems and tissues—including joint, gastrointestinal, neurological, and pancreatic tissues—by inhibiting excessive poly (ADP-ribose) synthetase (PARS) activity. Alapars also contains vitamin C, which offers a strong defense against free radical damage and promotes the formation of collagen—an important component of healthy joint tissue.
Q: Why is PARS inhibition important?
A: PARS is an enzyme that perpetuates cellular signals shown to greatly affect the integrity of joint tissue health, neurological health, gastrointestinal status, and pancreatic function. NAC and niacinamide work together to interrupt the cascade of events initiated by PARS, thereby imparting a positive influence on overall health status.
Q: Do niacinamide and NAC have any other important functions?
A: In addition to inhibiting excessive PARS activity, niacinamide positively affects the production of certain hormone-like chemicals that are associated with minor pain. NAC and vitamin C supports tissue health through its potent antioxidant properties.
Q: How can this product help me?
A: Alapars may help to promote joint, gastrointestinal, neurological, and pancreatic tissue health. Alapars may also offer a safe and effective approach to reducing minor pain associated with excessive PARS activity.
Q: What is the recommended dosage?
A: Two to three tablets daily. Each tablet supplies 500 mg of niacinamide, 200 mg of NAC, and 100 mg of vitamin C.
Q: Are there any adverse effects?
A: As with any therapy, consult your healthcare provider before taking Alapars. Taking high doses (over 7,000 mg per day) of NAC may be harmful. In addition, individuals with cystinuria (a urinary condition) should avoid or limit their intake of NAC. Niacinamide in large amounts (over 3,000 mg per day) can cause liver damage.
Q: Can I take Alapars if I am pregnant or nursing?
A: Due to lack of testing in these conditions, Alapars is not recommended.
Q: Are there any drug interactions with Alapars?
A: NAC may enhance the blood pressure-lowering effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. The combination of NAC with nitroglycerin and isosorbide—medications commonly used to treat angina and chest pain—increase the chance for unpleasant side effects associated with these medications.
Cholarest SC™
Q: What is Cholarest SC?
A: Cholarest SC is a nutritional supplement designed for people who could benefit from cardiovascular support. It features policosanol from sugarcane to support healthy blood lipid levels and other markers of cardiovascular health. Q: Other than supporting healthy blood lipid levels, what else does Cholarest SC do?
A: In addition to supporting healthy blood lipid levels, Cholarest SC supports the integrity of blood vessels (e.g., arteries), promotes healthy blood flow, and helps to maintain healthy blood pressure levels already within normal range.
Q: How does Cholarest SC support healthy blood lipid levels?
A: Policosanol, as contained in Cholarest SC, may indirectly inhibit HMG-CoA reductase—a key enzyme involved in cholesterol production. In addition, policosanol may bind to blood lipids to facilitate their removal.
Q: Is it safe?
A: Policosanol has been clinically demonstrated to provide safe and effective support without serious adverse effects.
Q: How do I know it will work?
A: Cholarest SC contains policosanol from sugarcane. This form of policosanol has been extensively researched, with over 20 published studies demonstrating its cardiovascular benefits.
Q: Does Cholarest SC have any adverse effects?
A: Unlike some conventional approaches to blood lipid management, policosanol, as found in Cholarest SC, has been clinically demonstrated to provide effective support without serious adverse effects.
Q: Can I take Cholarest SC if I am pregnant or nursing?
A: Consult your healthcare provider before use if you are pregnant or nursing.
Q: Are there any drug interactions with Cholarest SC?
A: Cholarest SC is contraindicated with blood pressure and anticoagulant/antiplatelet (blood thinning) medications. Consult your healthcare provider if you are taking any prescription or over-the-counter medications before use.
Q: What is the recommended dosage?
A: Cholarest SC promotes healthy blood lipid levels and overall cardiovascular health in as little as one tablet per day.
Q: Where can I buy Cholarest SC?
A: Cholarest SC is available exclusively through healthcare professionals. Ask your healthcare provider if Cholarest SC is right for you.
CogniSure™
Q. What is a PRP complex?
A. PRP complex is a bovine colostrum-derived extract of proline-rich peptides consisting of less than 0.1% total colostrum. By virtue of a new, patented extraction technology, this naturally occurring protein from colostrum is showing exciting promise in protecting brain cells and promoting healthy brain aging.
Q. What does “healthy brain aging” mean?
A. Many people equate getting older with memory loss and impaired cognition. Indeed, more than 24 million people worldwide have age-related cognitive impairment, and that number is increasing rapidly. Neuron impairment and oxidative stress naturally increase with age and are key factors contributing to memory loss and cognitive impairment. PRP complex promotes healthy brain aging by protecting the neuronal structure responsible for synthesizing acetylcholine and moderating oxidative stress, thereby aiding memory and cognition. Furthermore, in laboratory tests, PRP complex was shown to help maintain the stability of beta-amyloid, a substance whose breakdown appears to be associated with certain aspects of normal brain aging. The benefits of PRP complex for “healthy brain aging” have been confirmed in numerous clinical trials.
Q. Who might benefit from PRP complex?
A. PRP complex may be beneficial for adults concerned with healthy brain aging. Since its mechanism of action does not affect acetylcholine (the neurotransmitter responsible for memory, speech, and reasoning), PRP complex may offer healthy, younger adults (younger than age 65) the opportunity to take action early to support healthy brain aging. PRP complex should not be used by children or women who are pregnant or nursing, as it has not been tested in these individuals. Anyone with suppressed immune function or taking immunomodulating agents should consult their healthcare practitioner before using PRP complex. Follow dosing instructions as outlined on the label.
Q. Is PRP complex safe?
A. The source of PRP complex is bovine colostrum made by the mother’s body to boost her newborn’s immune and neurologic systems. PRP complex has been studied extensively over the last several decades. The safety and lack of toxicity of PRP complex is well documented and supported by both animal and human studies. However, those with dairy sensitivities should consult their practitioner prior to using PRP.
Q. Is a person taking colostrum getting enough PRP complex?
A. No. The amounts of PRP complex in colostrum are minute. Using a new, patented technology, PRP complex is separated from whole colostrum, unveiling the full biological activity of these unique peptides. Also, the micellar structure of casein in colostrum may reduce the availability of the peptides, which are entrapped in casein and subsequently decrease the potency of its biological effects, making PRP complex more bioactive and bioavailable than plain colostrum.
Q. How is PRP complex different than colostrum?
A. Unlike whole colostrum, PRP complex influences healthy brain function and is designed to exclude allergens commonly associated with milk products.
Q. Can people with dairy sensitivities use PRP complex?
A. Yes, unless individuals are particularly sensitive. It is free of intact proteins (e.g., casein) associated with milk allergies, as well as lipids, minerals, and most carbohydrates (lactose). It is important to remember that food allergies and sensitivities can be complex. PRP complex may not be appropriate for individuals with severe milk allergies.
Q. Why should someone take PRP complex when there are so many other brain foods and neuroprotective agents available?
A. PRP complex is unique, natural, and safe. It has been studied extensively and its safety and lack of toxicity are well-documented and supported by both animal and human studies. PRP complex has been shown to protect the neuronal structures responsible for making neurotransmitters, such as acetylcholine, which diminishes with age. Its powerful neuroprotective properties, in combination with its lack of neurotransmitter stimulating focus, make it suitable for adults wishing to use a natural product that does not influence neurotransmitters.
Q. How does PRP complex compare with Ginkgo biloba for neuroprotection?
A. Gingko biloba, extracted from the leaves of the maiden hair tree, targets circulation. Ginkgo is primarily used to increase the blood supply to the brain by dilating blood vessels, reducing blood viscosity, modifying acetylcholine, and reducing the density of free radicals (oxidative stress). Ginkgo’s influence on acetylcholine positions this herb as beneficial for the older individual experiencing declining acetylcholine levels. Gingko’s inhibition of the platelet-activating factor may be an issue if used in conjunction with certain anti-platelet agents.
In contrast, PRP complex does not directly influence acetylcholine. Rather, PRP complex protects the structures responsible for synthesis of acetylcholine and other neurotransmitters.
Q. How does PRP complex compare with huperzine A for neuroprotection?
A. Huperzine A is a cognition-enhancing herb isolated from the Chinese Huperzia serrata. Huperzine A works as an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, a compound that inhibits the breakdown of acetylcholine and cerebral antioxidants. However, over time, as the brain produces less and less acetylcholine, this mechanism of action becomes less effective.
By comparison, PRP complex protects brain cells from oxidative damage without directly altering acetylcholine concentration.
Q. How does PRP complex compare with vinpocetine for neuroprotection?
A. Vinpocetine is extracted from the leaves of the periwinkle (Vinca minor) plant. Like ginkgo extract, vinpocetine is a powerful botanical cognitive enhancer that helps to maintain healthy circulation in the brain, thus aiding in memory and the concentration of certain neurotransmitters involved in memory formation such as acetylcholine, dopamine, noradrenaline, and serotonin.
By comparison, PRP complex protects the structures responsible for synthesis of acetylcholine and other neurotransmitters. It does not directly affect the levels of these neurotransmitters.
Q. Can PRP complex be used safely with the above-mentioned herbs?
A. PRP complex may be utilized along with botanicals such as purified huperzine A, Ginkgo biloba extract, and vinpocetine when an individual is showing the early signs of age-related mild cognitive decline such as forgetfulness or minor lapses in memory. These mental processes, including critical thinking, concentration, and speech, are dependent on continued neuroprotection and adequate acetylcholine. In younger individuals, PRP complex, taken with omega-3-fatty acids (EPA/DHA) from high quality cold-water fish plus a multivitamin/mineral, may provide excellent neuroprotection.
Q. How long should a person use PRP complex to get the health benefits?
A. Clinically beneficial effects have been delivered in as little as 100 mcg of PRP complex taken every other day for three weeks followed by a two-week break. This specific dosing regimen was established as effective in clinical research. No other natural agent has demonstrated these benefits at such a minimal amount, making PRP complex a safe, potent, and cost-effective neuroprotective agent.diovascular health.
CoQ-10 ST® and CoQ-10 ST-100™
Q: Why did Metagenics replace the rice bran oil in CoQ-10 ST® and CoQ10 ST-100™ with limonene oil (D-limonene)?
A: Current research suggests that D-limonene oil enhances bioavailability of CoQ10. Limonene, an antioxidant oil found in citrus peel, acts as a solubilizing ingredient for the fat soluble CoQ10. The use of D-limonene results in a markedly improved percent absorption as compared to older formulations of CoQ10, including oil-filled capsules, dry tablets, or powder formulations. Quality CoQ10 formulations containing D-limonene, as available from Metagenics, should significantly elevate serum CoQ10 levels at lower dosing or in patients whose dietary intake or endogenous production is low.
Lactium™ and LactiumPURE™
Q: What is Lactium™?
A:
Lactium represents a breakthrough approach for addressing stress-related concerns naturally. First developed by researchers attempting to identify a relationship between milk consumption and calmness—after observing the calm state of a baby after drinking—Lactium is a unique hydrolysate from milk proteins that contain a bioactive peptide with relaxing properties.
Q: What is LactiumPURE™?
A: LactiumPURE is a special preparation of Lactium containing no intact milk casein as a carrier for the small peptide, further minimizing its allergenicity potential.
Q: Where can I buy LactiumPURE? ?
A: Currently, LactiumPURE is featured in Metagenics formulas for occasional sleeplessness (Benesom™) and support for distracted minds ( Lumina™). Because the compound promotes a calm state and a healthy stress response, LactiumPURE is a perfect addition to the mood and cognition formulas at Metagenics.
Q: Why recommend Benesom for occasional sleeplessness?
A: The latest statistics reveal that up to 60 million Americans suffer from occasional sleeplessness. Unfortunately, our fast paced-society has created so much stress and sleep deprivation that what is really abnormal sleep is now almost the norm. Of course, difficulty sleeping and staying awake are actually two sides of the same coin, and many people show subtle signs of disturbed sleep, such as:
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Because s leep is as essential for well-being as food and water, it’s important to address these disturbances quickly and effectively. So to o ffer an innovative and well-researched approach to help alleviate stress and improve sleeping patterns, Benesom features a clinically effective dose of LactiumPURE along with other targeted ingredients.
Q: Why recommend Lumina for distracted minds ?
A: Even at high doses, LactiumPURE has no sedative effect. Instead, people who take LactiumPURE may feel more relaxed. So in addition to helping patients feel calmer in the evenings, LactiumPURE helps to support a healthy stress response during daytime activities. Metagenics Lumina formula combines LactiumPURE with additional supportive nutrients to address mental focus, relaxation, and complaints of a distracted mind.
Q: What is the difference between Lactium and LactiumPURE?
A: Also a hydrolysate of milk proteins, Lactium is made with intact casein, a protein found in cow’s milk. Up until now, however, for those with milk allergies casein was not an option. That is why Metagenics has developed LactiumPURE, a professional-grade raw material safe for people with milk allergies.
LactiumPURE offers the same powerful, fast-acting relaxation benefits of Lactium and boasts an excellent safety profile. This proprietary complex still originates from bovine skimmed milk, except that during its manufacture, aSl casein enriched fraction is separated from the skimmed milk and is subsequently hydrolysed by the proteolytic enzyme trypsin, which is a protease found in the gastrointestinal tract of the newborn and adults.
Q: Is Lactium considered a safe dietary ingredient?
A:
The overall safety of casein tryptic hydrolysate is supported by the results of toxicology testing in animals and clinical studies in humans. Additionally, the Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status of peptones and the history of safe exposure to hydrolyzed alpha sl casein—from bovine milk and infant formula—support the safety of Lactium as a nutritional supplement.
NanoCell-Q™
Q: What is NanoCell-Q?
A: NanoCell-Q features highly absorbable coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)—also known as ubiquinone—produced through advanced nanomicelle technology. This new liquid formula with nanomicelle technology—exclusively available from Metagenics—offers even greater bioavailability than our high quality softgel formulas.
Q: Why is CoQ 10 important?
A:
CoQ10 plays an important role in the body’s energy-producing process and cardiovascular health. The endogenous production of CoQ10 decreases with age, and can also be impacted by CoQ10-depleting drugs in conventional therapies. Furthermore, the need for supplementation may be necessary due to dietary availability and absorption of CoQ10.
Q: What is unique about Metagenics nanomicelle technology?
A: Our advanced, patented nanomicelle technology delivers molecules that are 1,000 times smaller than other micelle technology formulas, placing the active ingredient closer to cell membranes. This technology also allows fat-soluble CoQ10 to become water soluble, and has been shown to increase plasma CoQ10 levels by 25-50% above an industry standard formula.
Q: How can this product help me?
A: NanoCell-Q’s bioenergetic and antioxidant activity may help to promote cardiovascular health and function. In addition, NanoCell-Q may also provide cell-membrane-stabilizing support for healthy tissue and help replenish CoQ10 levels, which are known to decline with age.
Q: What are the advantages of using this product?
A: Greater absorption of CoQ10 has been demonstrated in a preliminary study, suggesting NanoCell-Q may be more bioavailable than other advanced technology formulas. This product is also cost-effective in that patients can take less as a result of increased absorption potential. In addition, NanoCell-Q conveniently requires one (5ml) teaspoon dose rather than multiple capsules. Patient-friendly NanoCell-Q further offers delicious, natural orange flavor to promote compliance.
Q: What is the recommended dosage?
A: One to two teaspoons daily. One teaspoon (5 ml) supplies 80 mg of coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone).
Q: Are there any adverse effects ?
A: There are no reported serious adverse effects. As with any product, consult your healthcare provider before taking NanoCell-Q.
Perimine®
Q: What is Perimine?
A: Perimine is a patented extract of perilla seed (Perilla frutescens), commonly known as purple mint, an herb native to Eastern Asia that is known to possess unique health-promoting qualities.
Q: What are perilla's uses?
A: Perilla extract supports a healthy immune and respiratory response. Its traditional uses include supporting healthy bronchial function, alleviating chest fullness, supporting healthy mucus secretion, and promoting healthy breathing.
Q: How long has perilla been available?
A: The perilla plant has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for over a century. Recently, a concentrated extract of the flavonoid-rich seed has become available as a dietary supplement in the United States. Perimine is now available exclusively through healthcare providers.
Q: How does Perimine differ from other products?
A: Other products may not contain this unique blend of compounds, such as luteolin and rosmarinic acid, that have been scientifically shown to have targeted health benefits.
Q: What is the recommended dosage for Perimine?
A: Take 100 mg twice daily.
Q: Are there any side effects?
A: Although many products with similar applications may produce unwanted side effects such as drowsiness or hyperactivity, empirical evidence from a long history of traditional use suggests perilla extract may not cause significant side effects. More human research is needed to give a definitive answer.
Q: Can I take Perimine if I am pregnant or nursing?
A: Due to lack of testing in these conditions, perilla is not recommended.
Q: Are there any drug interactions with Perimine?
A: None known.
Slentiva™
Q: What is Slentiva™?
A. Slentiva is a dietary supplement formulated to enhance satiety (feeling full or satisfied) and help
patients feel more full for a longer period of time.
Q. What does Slentiva taste like?
A. Slentiva is provided in a soft, delicious chocolate chewable. Patient response to the delivery form has been overwhelmingly positive.
Q. What is Slentiva’s active ingredient?
A. Slentiva supplies a natural potato protein extract from potato peels that is produced via a patented
process. This ingredient—which has been the subject of numerous clinical trials—beneficially influences
the release of cholecystokinin (CCK) levels through its action as a proteinase inhibitor II (PI2). One dose
of Slentiva supplies as much potato protein extract as found in four potatoes, which may help your
patients feel more full faster and for a longer period of time, as well as support a healthy glucose
response when taken before a meal.
Q. What is cholecystokinin (CCK)?
A. CCK is a natural satiety factor associated with feeling full or satisfied. Specifically, CCK is released by cells in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract when food and/or certain compounds (e.g., PI2) are detected. First discovered in 1928, CCK has an extensive history of research, making it one of the most studied satiety factors in nutritional science.
Q. What type of research has been conducted on the active ingredient, PI2?
A. To date, at least 15 human clinical studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of PI2 in beneficially influencing one or more of the following:
- CCK
- Hunger
- Satiety
- Glucose
- Weight loss
Q. How quickly does Slentiva work?
A. Slentiva may help your patients manage their feelings of hunger within 60 minutes. And some patients
have reported feeling a decreased desire to eat and an increased sense of fullness for more than two
hours after ingesting Slentiva’s active ingredient.
Q. Is Slentiva safe?
A. In addition to its strong track record of efficacy, Slentiva has an excellent safety profile. No serious
adverse effects of the active ingredient have been reported in the 15 human clinical studies.
Q. How is Slentiva different?
A. Some dietary supplements for hunger management contain high amounts of herbal stimulants,
caffeine, phenylpropranolamine, or other ingredients with potential adverse effects. As a safer option,
Slentiva supplies a natural potato peel extract that has been repeatedly demonstrated free of serious
adverse effects.
Q. Who would benefit from Slentiva?
A. Slentiva provides ideal support to help patients struggling with an existing lifestyle change program,
and is also great for individuals who do not want to go on any specific program but would like support for
hunger management. In other words, Slentiva is designed for use as both short-term support or as part of
an ongoing program depending on your patients' needs.
Q. Does it matter what current program my patient is on?
A. Slentiva is designed to work with any therapeutic lifestyle changes (TLC) program to provide patients
with another tool for hunger management.
Q. What is the recommended dosage?
A. One chew daily 30 to 60 minutes prior to the largest meal.
Q. Will eating one Slentiva a day work or do patients need to take more?
A. The potency of the potato protein extract in Slentiva allows for efficacy with just one chew daily;
therefore, we recommend that patients follow this general guideline as a starting point. But if extra
support is needed, consider a program that includes Slentiva twice daily (one chew 30 to 60 minutes prior
to the two largest meals).
Q. How many Slentiva chews can my patients eat?
A. The research on the potato protein has shown no serious adverse effects even at levels as high as
600 mg daily. Still, we recommend a dosage of 1 to 2 chews daily because studies have shown there’s
little-to-no added benefit of consuming more than 2 chews. In addition, some patients may exhibit a
sensitivity to the ingredient maltitol, a sugar molecule, over a certain level (each Slentiva chew contains
3 g of the sweetener maltitol).
Q. What is maltitol and why is it used in Slentiva?
A. Maltitol is a sugar alcohol derived from corn. Used as a sweetener, some of maltitol's advantages over
table sugar include fewer calories and it does not promote tooth decay. However, consumed in excess,
sugar alcohols may cause GI discomfort.
UltraBalance® Protein
Q: What are the amounts of whey and rice protein used in UltraBalance Protein?
A: There is a total of 15 grams of protein per serving in UltraBalance Protein. Whey protein makes up 9 grams and rice protein makes up 6 grams of the total.
Q: I have dairy sensitivity. Can I still take UltraBalance Protein?
A: The general answer to this question follows, but please remember to ask your healthcare practitioner this question on your next visit, as each case is individual.
Dairy sensitivities may have several causes. Some people have difficulty digesting milk sugar (lactose intolerance) because they lack the enzymes necessary to break down lactose. Since UltraBalance Protein is formulated without milk sugar, it should be suitable or those who are lactose intolerant.
Other people have a sensitivity to the proteins in milk. Milk is made up of several different types of protein, with casein being a common allergen. Another milk protein known to be much less sensitizing is beta lactalbumin, which is the protein source in UltraBalance Protein. Since intact protein in general is more sensitizing than partially hydrolyzed (digested) protein, the beta lactalbumin in UltraBalance Protein is hydrolyzed, making it even less likely to cause symptoms for you.
A good rule of thumb is that if you can consume a few tablespoons of whole milk without developing any problems, the dairy protein in UltraBalance Protein will likely NOT be a problem for you.
Zinlori 75®
Q: What is Zinlori 75?
A: Zinlori 75 is the highest potency, patented zinc-carnosine complex available in the United States. Zinc-carnosine complex has been shown to promote a healthy stomach lining. In addition, it has been clinically demonstrated to relieve stomach discomforts such as:
- Occasional heartburn
- Bloating
- Occasional indigestion
- Belching
- Mild nausea
- Burping
- Upset stomach
Q: Who would benefit from Zinlori 75?
A: Numerous individuals could potentially benefit from the stomach-supporting properties of Zinlori 75. As many as 25% to 40% of Americans suffer from gastric discomforts such as occasional heartburn or indigestion!
Q: How does it work?
A: Zinc-carnosine complex dissolves rapidly in the stomach where it appears to adhere directly to the site of the stomach lining in need of support. At this site, it may exert tissue-protective and regenerative benefits, such as:
- Supporting a healthy bacterial balance in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Promoting healthy mucus secretion to help protect the stomach lining.
- Protecting stomach cells from damage through its antioxidant properties.
- Inhibiting damaging cytokine expression in stomach cells.
Q: What makes Zinlori 75 unique?
A: Zinc-carnosine complex, as found in Zinlori 75, contains the original patented Pepzin GI™ material that has clinically demonstrated efficacy. It also contains 75 mg of zinc-carnosine complex per tablet, achieving a dosage shown to be clinically effective (75 mg twice daily) in scientific studies. More importantly, over 20 published studies have identified the stomach-supportive benefits of zinc-carnosine complex and it has been shown to be three times more effective than zinc sulfate or L-carnosine alone.
Q: Is it safe?
A: In addition to its strong track record of efficacy, Zinlori 75 has an excellent safety profile.
Q: Does it have any adverse effects?
A: Unlike some conventional approaches to supporting stomach health, Zinlori 75 is without serious adverse effects.
Q: Can it be taken with conventional products?
A: In addition to providing excellent, stand-alone support for stomach health, zinc-carnosine complex also complements conventional approaches to supporting stomach health.
Q: Where is Zinlori 75 sold?
A: Zinlori 75 is available exclusively through Metagenics to licensed healthcare professionals. You will not find the same high potency zinc-carnosine complex on the U.S. retail market or from other professional supplement providers.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat cure, or prevent
any diseases.