InterHealthUSA.RSS New Research

Super CitriMax® Decreases Metabolic Consequences of Obesity in Animals

Wed, 12 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT

A natural plant extract from the dried fruit rind of Garcinia cambogia, Super CitriMax® has been shown to curb caloric intake and promote weight loss in animals and humans. A broad spectrum of short and long term studies in animals has also demonstrated the safety of this novel calcium/potassium (–)-hydroxycitric acid (HCA) extract. The metabolic consequences of obesity can include oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, elevated triglycerides and insulin resistance, a forerunner to type II diabetes. The present study examined the effects of Super CitriMax® on oxidative stress and insulin resistance in an animal model of type II diabetes. Young obese Zucker rats were supplemented with Super CitriMax® (500 mg/kg/day in drinking water for 2 weeks, and 1,500 mg/kg/day for the next 5 weeks), while a non-supplemented group served as controls. Supplemented animals were observed to have lower levels of oxidative stress and inflammation. Malondialdehyde, a measure of oxidative damage to lipids, as well as markers of protein damage (protein carbonyl and protein tyrosine nitration), were reduced in the kidney and liver of the supplemented animals compared to controls. Markers of inflammation in plasma, C-reactive protein and IL-6, were found to be significantly lower as well. Super CitriMax®-treated animals exhibited decreased levels of fasting plasma insulin, glucose and triglycerides, and did not develop insulin resistance over the 7 week period. Food intake was diminished and body weight was significantly lower in the treated animals by the sixth week. These findings suggest that Super CitriMax® may help address the metabolic consequences of obesity when used as a dietary aid in weight control programs.

ChromeMate® Shown More Effective than Chromium Picolinate in Improving Insulin Sensitivity and Reducing Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Excess vascular inflammation and cardiovascular disease (CVD) are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in diabetic patients. This study examined the comparative effects of ChromeMate®, a unique form of oxygen-coordinated niacin-bound chromium (also known as chromium nicotinate), and chromium picolinate on the biomarkers of insulin sensitivity, vascular inflammation and CVD risk factors, including tumor necrosis factor- a (TNF-a), interleukin-6 (IL-6), lipid peroxidation (LP), c-reactive proteins (CRP), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1), cholesterol (Chol) and triglycerides (TG) in streptozotocin-treated diabetic rats, a powerful model for this investigation. In a different set of experiments, the protective effects of these chromium supplements were investigated on pro-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-6, IL-8 and Monocyte Chemotactic Protein-1 (MCP-1), in high glucose (HG)-treated cultured U937 monocyte cells. ChromeMate was shown to be significantly more effective than chromium picolinate in inhibiting the secretion of these important biomarkers. ChromeMate-supplemented animals showed a 12% lower level of HbA1, an indicator of glucose control and long-term blood sugar status, while chromium picolinate treatment had no significant effect. ChromeMate also reduced triglyceride and total cholesterol levels 52% and 26% lower, respectively, compared to the untreated group, while chromium picolinate showed no significant decrease in these biomarkers. ChromeMate supplementation significantly lowered CRP levels in diabetic rats, while chromium picolinate had no effect. Both ChromeMate and chromium picolinate resulted in lower levels of TNF-a. Similarly, the effect of HG on IL-6, IL-8 and MCP-1 secretion in cultured monocytes was abolished by ChromeMate, and to a lesser extent by chromium picolinate. This study shows that chromium supplementation may increase insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of CVD in diabetes. The study also showed ChromeMate to be more effective than chromium picolinate in improving glucose controls by lowering HbA1 levels and in reducing specific CVD risk factors, including CRP, triglyceride and total cholesterol levels in this diabetic animal model.

UC-II® Shown to Provide Significant Pain Relief and Increased Mobility, Flexibility in Osteoarthritic Horses

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Osteoarthritis is a chronic disease that cripples millions of horses each year around the world. This study was conducted to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy and safety of glycosylated undenatured type II collagen (UC-II®) in osteoarthritic horses. Prior to the study, the horses exhibited stiffness and pain in their joints with swelling, tenderness and inflammation. Researchers also noted crunching sounds that indicated bone rubbing against bone. Horses received either placebo (Group I) or UC-II at varying doses (160 mg, Group II; 320 mg, Group III; and 480 mg, Group IV) daily for 150 days. UC-II capsules were administered orally every day in a handful of grain. On a monthly basis, horses were given a physical exam and flexion test to observe for overall pain, pain upon limb manipulation, and pain from physical exertion. At the same time intervals, horses were checked for body weight, pulse rate, respiration rate and body temperature, in addition to serum chemistry for liver (ALP, GGT, and bilirubin), heart and renal (BUN and creatinine) functions. The group of horses that received placebo showed no changes in arthritic condition, while those in Group II showed moderate improvement. Horses receiving the higher doses of UC-II (320 and 480 mg/day) showed the greater improvement. In Group III (320 mg/day), UC-II reduced overall pain by 79%, while in Group IV (480 mg/day) overall pain was reduced by 88%; pain upon limb manipulation was reduced by 71% in Group III and by 78% in Group IV; and pain after physical exertion was reduced by 68% in Group III and by 73% in Group IV. For all groups receiving UC-II, there was an increase in mobility and flexibility of joints and of physical activity, due to the decrease in pain associated with arthritis. Throughout the study, body weight, temperature, pulse rate and respiration rate remained unchanged. Neither placebo nor UC-II caused any change in liver, heart or renal function serum markers, indicating that UC-II is well tolerated by osteoarthritic horses. Researchers concluded that UC-II at higher doses of 320 mg/day and 480 mg/day ameliorates signs and symptoms of arthritis without producing any adverse events, while 480 mg/day dose provided the greatest benefit. In contrast, the effective dosage in human and dog studies was found to be 40 mg of UC-II. This study corroborates earlier published findings showing that UC-II significantly reduces pain and stiffness in osteoarthritic dogs, and previous published clinical studies that showed UC-II significantly reduced symptoms such as joint stiffness and tenderness in arthritic patients compared to placebo groups

Super CitriMax® Shown Safe in Long-Term Reproductive and Teratogenicity Studies

Wed, 02 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Super CitriMax® is a patented calcium/potassium salt of (–)-hydroxycitric acid (HCA-SX) extracted from the dried fruit rind of the plant Garcinia cambogia, which has been used in southeast Asia for centuries to make food more filling. Super CitriMax has been shown to promote fat oxidation, inhibit fat production, suppress appetite and reduce body weight 3-times greater than diet and exercise alone. A broad spectrum of previous studies, including several human clinical trials and gene array analyses, have also shown the ingredient to be extremely safe and non-toxic. In this study, researchers looked at the reproductive and teratogenicity (developmental) safety of Super CitriMax. Studying two generations of Sprague-Dawley rats, researchers studied the reproductive systems of both males and females, the postnatal maturation and reproductive capacity of their offspring, and the possible cumulative effects through multiple generations. Animals were fed either none or one of three dose levels of Super CitriMax at 1000 ppm, 3000 ppm and 10,000 ppm, approximately equivalent to the dose levels of 100 mg, 300 mg or 1000 mg/kg/day respectively, for 10 weeks prior to mating, during mating and, for females, through gestation and lactation, across two generations. Researchers found no reproductive or developmental toxicity in the parents or offspring, respectively. No adverse effects on reproductive performance were observed as evaluated by sexual maturity, fertility and mating, gestation, parturition, litter properties, lactation or development of offspring. Super CitriMax, at these high dose levels, did not induce any systemic toxicity in the parental rats and their offspring. Neither sperm motility nor sperm count were negatively affected in either the parental groups or the first generation groups. No teratogenicity (malformations) was observed. These findings add to the extensive body of evidence showing the long-term safety of Super CitriMax.

ChromeMate® Influences Genes Promoting Muscle Development and Lean Body Mass; Improves Lipid Profiles

Wed, 22 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Metabolic Syndrome is a cluster of symptoms that can include abdominal obesity, inefficient insulin function, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high triglyceride and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels, and low levels of HDL (“good”) cholesterol. ChromeMate®, an oxygen-coordinated niacin-bound form of chromium (III), has been shown in earlier animal and human studies to promote healthy blood lipid profiles and glucose metabolism, as well as lean body mass. This new study further substantiates that ChromeMate improves lipid profiles and promotes lean body mass. Researchers investigated the effects of ChromeMate supplementation in Leprdb mice, which are born obese and diabetic and are an appropriate model for studying Metabolic Syndrome. The Leprdb mice typically suffer from abnormally high blood glucose and lipid profiles beginning at 30 days of life. ChromeMate supplementation significantly lowered total cholesterol, LDL and triglyceride levels, and increased beneficial HDL levels. Furthermore, Gene Microarray Analysis (using more than 45,000 sets of mouse genome), in conjunction with RT-PCR, demonstrated that ChromeMate up-regulates (activates) the expression of four muscle specific genes within the subcutaneous fat. These genes provide the signal for muscle development in the fat tissue, indicating that ChromeMate enhances the production of lean body mass. ChromeMate also down-regulated (de-activated) genes that encode for CIDEA and UCP1, which are key components in brown fat tissue. CIDEA is considered a “candidate” gene for obesity; mice that do not possess this gene are resistant to diet-induced obesity and diabetes, thus its down-regulation by ChromeMate is highly favorable. ChromeMate also down-regulated TTP, a gene that provides antioxidant support to all tissues for survival, in the subcutaneous fat. Thus, ChromeMate supplementation terminates antioxidant support to, and ultimately kills, fat cells. This study indicates that ChromeMate may help protect against the risk factors associated with Metabolic Syndrome, and triggers the genetic signaling by which ChromeMate increases lean body mass. The study corroborates earlier human studies showing the same.

ChromeMate® Exhibits Long-Term Safety

Wed, 22 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Chromium is an essential trace element required for normal protein, fat and carbohydrate metabolism. ChromeMate®, an oxygen-coordinated niacin-bound form of chromium, has previously been demonstrated safe in acute and subchronic (90-day) toxicity studies. Researchers at Creighton University Medical Center examined its long-term safety by administering either 0 (control) or 25 ppm of ChromeMate per day (equivalent to 1000µg elemental chromium per day in humans, which is five times the recommended dose in humans) to Sprague-Dawley rats over a period of one year. Body weight, feed and water intake, selected organ weights, liver lipid peroxidation and DNA fragmentation, blood chemistry, and histopathological evaluations were conducted. At 6, 9 and 12 months of treatment, body weight gain of the ChromeMate-treated groups was significantly reduced by 7.7%, 8.1% and 14.9% in male rats, and 5.5%, 11.4% and 9.6% in female rats, respectively. At these same time points, ChromeMate treatment did not cause any significant changes in the organ weights, blood chemistry, histopathology, or liver lipid peroxidation and DNA fragmentation, as compared to the control animals. These findings corroborate previous safety studies on ChromeMate and further confirm its long-term safety.

ChromeMate® More Effective than Chromium Picolinate in Reducing Oxidative Stress and Inflammation

Thu, 25 May 2006 00:00:00 GMT

ChromeMate®, an oxygen-coordinated niacin-bound form of supplemental chromium, can increase the capacity of monocytes (white blood cells) for glucose uptake when stimulated by insulin, and may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in people with insulin resistance or diabetes. Using cultures of human monocytes, researchers have shown that ChromeMate® reduced lipid peroxidation, a measurement of oxidative stress, by 40 to 60 percent, while chromium picolinate actually increased lipid peroxidation by approximately 40 percent. Researchers also showed that ChromeMate® inhibits the secretion of Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Interleukin-8 (IL-8) and Monocyte Chemotactic Protein-1 (MCP-1), important biomarkers that lead to vascular inflammation and reduced insulin sensitivity. Elevated blood levels of IL-6, IL-8 and MCP-1, which increase oxidative stress, are established risk factors for CVD. In this study, investigators added either ChromeMate®, chromium picolinate or chromium chloride to separate cultures of monocytes. The cultured cells were then treated with high glucose and stimulated to release IL-6, IL-8 and MCP-1. ChromeMate® blocked IL-6 secretion by 65% compared to control cell cultures. Chromium chloride and chromium picolinate were less effective, inhibiting IL-6 release by 45% and 21%, respectively. ChromeMate® also was significantly more effective than chromium picolinate in reducing IL-8 and MCP-1 secretion. Chromium picolinate had no effect on MCP-1 secretion. Exposing cells to high levels of glucose also generates oxidative stress, which occurs when the production of free radicals exceeds the capacity of available antioxidants to neutralize them. In this study, oxidative stress was 100% inhibited by both ChromeMate® and chromium chloride, but not by chromium picolinate. These results demonstrate that chromium may improve insulin sensitivity and lower CVD risk by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which causes cell damage, and that, in human monocytes, ChromeMate® is more effective than chromium picolinate in reducing oxidative stress and inhibiting the secretion of IL-6, IL-8 and MCP-1.

Super CitriMax® Shown to Improve Brain Chemicals Involved in Appetite Suppression in Obese Zucker Rats

Fri, 21 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Super CitriMax® is a novel calcium/potassium salt of (—)-hydroxycitric acid (HCA-SX) extracted from the dried fruit rind of the plant Garcinia cambogia, which is commonly consumed worldwide as a dietary weight loss supplement. Previous studies have shown that Super CitriMax® alters levels of brain serotonin (5-HT) and neuropeptide Y (NPY), neurotransmitters that are known to either suppress or enhance appetite, respectively, in normal rats. The following study evaluated the effect of Super CitriMax® on neurotransmitters, oxidative stress and insulin in genetically obese Zucker rats. Male rats (4-5 weeks old) were supplemented with Super CitriMax® (200 mg/kg/day in drinking water) or placebo for 6-7 weeks. Compared to controls, levels of serotonin and norepinephrine increased, while levels of dopamine and epinephrine decreased, in the brain cortex of the Super CitriMax®-treated rats. Further, Super CitriMax® supplementation decreased fasting plasma insulin by 25%, triglyceride levels by 17%, and insulin resistance by 16%. Oxidative stress in liver and kidney tissues also was significantly reduced in Super CitriMax®-treated rats. This study shows that Super CitriMax® may influence appetite suppression in obesity by modulating neurotransmitter levels, while reducing oxidative stress and insulin resistance.

Super CitriMax® Selectively Affects Genes That Influence Appetite and Fat Metabolism

Wed, 22 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Nutrigenomics, or the study of gene-nutrient interactions, is emerging as a means of understanding how nutrients might impact chronic disease prevention. In this study, Super CitriMax® curbed weight gain and favorably altered the expression of genes involved in regulating appetite and fat metabolism without adversely affecting genes vital to normal body functions. Super CitriMax® is a unique, highly bioavailable form of calcium/potassium -hydroxycitric acid (HCA-SX) that has been shown to control appetite and reduce body weight in animals and humans. To gain further insight into how HCA-SX works, researchers investigated the effects of Super CitriMax® on genes that affect appetite and fat metabolism in laboratory animals. Super CitriMax® supplementation for six weeks curbed weight gain compared to placebo-fed animals, with no signs of adverse effects. The level of supplemental HCA-SX fed was comparable to low-dose consumption in humans. Microarray analysis of 9960 genes and ESTs (DNA fragments) present in fat tissue revealed that about 1% of the genes screened were specifically affected by HCA-SX. The majority of those affected were up-regulated (activated), while others were down-regulated (deactivated). Of the genes related to appetite control, HCA-SX most notably activated genes involved in neuropeptide signaling and serotonin activity. This finding is consistent with previous in vitro research showing that HCA-SX reduced concentrations of neuropeptide Y (a brain molecule that stimulates food intake) and increased release of serotonin, an important brain chemical involved in regulating appetite. Genes involved in serotonin activity appear to be a key target of HCA-SX supplementation. HCA-SX also lowered the expression of genes involved with leptin production, a hormone that helps regulate fat metabolism. Other genes sensitive to HCA-SX included lipocalin 2, a transporter of fat soluble molecules; aldolase B, involved in metabolizing carbohydrates; and prostaglandin D synthetase, an enzyme thought to indirectly promote obesity. Super CitriMax® did not adversely affect genes vital to normal cellular functions, which corroborates existing evidence that HCA-SX is safe and non-toxic for human consumption. These findings further support a role for HCA-SX in effective weight management.

UC-II®, Alone or with Super CitriMax® & ChromeMate®, Reduces Pain in Arthritic Dogs

Tue, 21 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

UC-II® , a unique form of undenatured or intact type II collagen, is reported to decrease arthritic pain in animals and humans. This investigation examines the safety and efficacy of UC-II® alone and in combination with calcium/potassium-bound hydroxycitric acid (Super CitriMax® or HCA-SX) and niacin-bound chromium (ChromeMate® or CM). For 120 days, five groups of dogs (n=5) received daily either: 1) 10 mg undenatured type II collagen as UC-II® , 2) 1800 mg hydroxycitric acid as HCA-SX, 3) HCA-SX and 100 mcg chromium as CM, 4) UC-II® combined with HCA-SX and CM, or 5) placebo. Pain parameters were evaluated for all dogs on a monthly basis. They included overall pain, soreness or limping with physical activity (lameness), and pain experienced when the researchers checked for flexibility and motion of the animals’ legs (limb manipulation). To assess safety, blood serum samples were analyzed for markers of liver function (bilirubin and a lanine transaminase), kidney function (creatinine and blood urea nitrogen) and heart function. Body weight and temperature were also measured. Pain significantly decreased over time in all groups except placebo, and decreased the most in dogs administered UC-II ® alone or in combination with HCA-SX and CM.At the four-month mark, overall pain had decreased by 62% in the UC-II® group alone and by 70% in the UC-II® plus HCA-SX and CM group. Pain with limb movement decreased by 67-91% in the two groups, while lameness was reduced by 67-91% in both groups. Arthritic symptoms returned in all treatment groups when the dogs were examined 30 days after supplements were discontinued, lending support to the effectiveness of the treatments. None of the animals showed signs of adverse effects or changes in kidney, liver or heart function, body weight or temperature. These results show that UC-II® supplementation alone or in combination with Super CitriMax® and ChromeMate® can safely and significantly reduce pain in arthritic dogs.

UC-II®, Alone or with Glucosamine & Chondroitin, Reduces Pain in Arthritic Dogs

Tue, 21 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

UC-II® is an undenatured or intact form of type II collagen found in the cartilage of joints. Arthritis is common among older canines, and previous research reported that daily administration of UC-II® reduces pain and promotes mobility in arthritic dogs. The current study evaluates the safety and effectiveness of UC-II® with or without glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulfate, compounds that have been shown to reduce osteoarthritic pain in animals and humans. Four groups of dogs (n=5) received either: UC-II® (10 mg undenatured type II collagen) alone , glucosamine HCl (2000 mg) and chondroitin sulfate (1600 mg), UC-II® combined with glucosamine and chondroitin, or placebo daily for 120 days. Overall pain was assessed, as was exercise-related soreness or limping (lameness), and pain experienced when the researchers manipulated the dog’s limbs. The pain parameters were evaluated regularly during the study and one month after the treatment period ended. Alt hough pain was significantly reduced by the end of the first month, maximum improvement was seen after 120 days. UC-II® alone decreased overall pain by 62%, while painful limb movement and lameness decreased by 91% and 78%, respectively. The group given UC-II® in combination with with glucosamine and chondroitin fared better than dogs given glucosamine and chondroitin alone. The combination of UC-II®, glucosamine and chondroitin reduced overall pain by 57%, and both pain with limb movement and lameness by 53%. Except for the placebo group, all dogs experienced a relapse in pain one month after treatment was stopped. No adverse effects or changes in liver, heart or kidney function markers, body weight or temperature were observed. These results extend the findings from earlier investigations, and show that UC-II® alone, or in combination with glucosamine and chondroitin, can safely alleviate pain in arthritic animals.

OptiBerry® Demonstrates Whole-Body Antioxidant Protection

Fri, 16 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Anthocyanins are naturally occurring compounds that display antioxidant, anti-carcinogenic and anti-angiogenic properties. OptiBerry®, a synergistic blend of six anthocyanin-rich berry extracts, was developed after screening a variety of extract combinations for their antioxidant capacity, cellular uptake, safety, and the ability to block undesirable blood vessel growth, a key event in tumor formation. To further assess safety, OptiBerry® was evaluated in acute oral and dermal tests, as well as eye and skin irritation tests in animals. The acute oral and skin LD50 values were found to be greater than 5,000 and 2,000 milligrams per kilogram of body weight, respectively, indicating very low potential for toxicity. No changes in body weight or adverse effects were seen in histopathological evaluation. In primary irritation tests, OptiBerry® was observed to be only slightly or minimally irritating to the skin and eye, respectively. To evaluate the in vivo antioxidant properties of OptiBerry®, vitamin E deficient animals were exposed to a hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) system to induce oxidation. Glutathione, an important antioxidant, was protected in the lungs and liver of animals fed OptiBerry® for 8 weeks prior to HBO exposure. In addition, feeding OptiBerry® for 2 weeks before exposure to HBO significantly protected animals against whole-body oxidation compared to control animals as measured by EPR imaging. These findings indicate that OptiBerry® is safe and confers whole-body antioxidant protection.

ChromeMate® Found to Increase Life Span in Animals

Thu, 08 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Restricting calories is known to increase the life span of laboratory animals. Changes in insulin and glucose metabolism are key components of aging, and calorie restriction in animals has been shown to improve that metabolism. Researchers hypothesize that improving the age-related decline in insulin function may impact longevity even in the absence of caloric restriction. ChromeMate®, a unique form of oxygen-coordinated niacin-bound chromium, has previously been shown to favorably affect insulin metabolism in animals and humans. This study investigated the effects of ChromeMate® on the life span of animals that tend to develop many of the manifestations of aging. All animals, including controls, were allowed to consume food freely. No abnormalities in blood chemistry, kidney or liver function were seen at week 44, before any deaths had occurred. Blood glucose levels were significantly reduced by ChromeMate® , with a trend toward lower levels of HbA1C—a long-term indicator of blood sugar status. Systolic blood pressure was also lower. Compared with control animals, the death rate was significantly delayed by ChromeMate® . The average and maximum life span of animals in the ChromeMate® group was increased by 22%, with 33% of the animals in the ChromeMate® group surviving at least one month longer than the last animal in the control group. The authors conclude that ChromeMate® can increase life span significantly without caloric restriction in this animal model.

Review: Body of Evidence Supports Superior Efficacy of Super CitriMax®

Mon, 01 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A review of clinical evidence, bioavailability data and mechanisms of action demonstrates that a calcium/potassium salt of (-)-hydroxycitric acid (HCA) known as Super CitriMax® is a unique and effective aid to weight management. A natural plant extract from the dried fruit rind of Garcinia cambogia, Super CitriMax has been shown to reduce appetite, burn fat and decrease body weight 3-times greater than diet and exercise alone without stimulating the central nervous system. The degree to which products containing Garcinia cambogia extract can influence weight loss is often attributed only to its HCA component. However, studies show that when calcium and potassium are bound to HCA, solubility, bioavailability and effectiveness are significantly enhanced. An effective daily dose of Super CitriMax (4500 mg providing 2700 mg HCA/day) contributes meaningful amounts of calcium (495 mg - 50% of the RDI) and potassium (720 mg - 21% of the RDI). These essential minerals are involved in metabolic pathways that influence weight control and metabolism on their own. Calcium plays a crucial role in regulating energy metabolism, and higher calcium intakes are associated with sustained weight loss. Potassium is involved in energy production as well as in promoting normal blood pressure and heart rhythm. The unique structural characteristics of Super CitriMax (i.e., its Ca/K-HCA salt) results in a water-soluble and highly bioavailable product, which was determined using a novel gas chromatography mass spectrometric technique in conjunction with a high-performance liquid chromatography that accurately identifies and quantifies plasma HCA levels in the blood of humans. Testing the blood of volunteers with this equipment has confirmed that Super CitriMax is highly bioavailable with peak absorption levels at two hours after intake. Typically, HCA dietary supplement ingredients are bound only to calcium, which is significantly less soluble (<50%) and less bioavailable than Super CitriMax. While HCA was first known to inhibit fat synthesis, results from scientific studies show that Super CitriMax works in several distinct and important ways, including 1) it increases the availability of serotonin, an important brain chemical involved in appetite control, 2) it increases the rate at which fat is oxidized (burned) in the body, 3) it triggers genetic signaling to down-regulate obesity, and 4) it helps to maintain normal blood lipid (cholesterol) levels. Coupled with appropriate diet, exercise and dosage levels, the synergistic influences of calcium and potassium in combination with HCA (Super CitriMax) have been shown to significantly enhance the effects of HCA in weight management. Source: Downs BW, Bagchi M, Subbaraju GV, Shara MA, Preuss HG, Bagchi D, Bioefficacy of a Novel Calcium-Potassium Salt of (-)-Hydroxycitric Acid, Mutation Research, 579:149-62, 2005.

ChromeMate® Improves Blood Pressure, Insulin Levels and Oxidative Stress in Animals

Wed, 27 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

High blood pressure and oxidative stress often occur when the ability of insulin to lower blood sugar is compromised—a condition known as insulin resistance. Investigators compared the effects of niacin-bound chromium (ChromeMate®),Gymnema sylvestre extract and vanadium (BMOV) on blood pressure in laboratory animals bred to develop hypertension. Animals were fed a high-sugar (sucrose) diet to elevate blood pressure beyond that caused by their genetic makeup. Adding chromium to the sucrose diet lowered insulin values and prevented the expected rise in systolic blood pressure, though not throughout the entire study period. Since chromium had previously been shown to offset the effects of a more moderate sugar diet for a longer period of time, a higher level of chromium may have been more effective. ChromeMate® also reduced oxidative damage in the kidney and liver as measured by TBARS, and marked weight loss was noted. Gymnema decreased blood cholesterol levels, but did not lower blood pressure, and even raised it at times. This may be due to the fact that gymnema stimulates the release of insulin rather than making cells more sensitive to its effects. High concentrations of vanadium (0.12%) overcame the sugar-induced rise in blood pressure and protected against oxidative stress in the liver. However, vanadium also resulted in loss of body weight and abnormal blood chemistries. When lower levels (0.01%) were tested, vanadium successfully kept the sugar-induced blood pressure in check and did not affect body weight, at least in the early stages of the study. In the present study, the level of ChromeMate® tested was more effective in the short term compared to gymnema in lowering sugar-induced high blood pressure. Though moderate levels of vanadium kept blood pressure down, further study is needed to determine its safe use over time.

ChromeMate® Found More Effective Than Four Other Chromium Compounds Tested

Wed, 27 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Increased blood pressure and free radicals often occur when insulin becomes less efficient at maintaining normal blood sugar levels. Chromium, an essential trace mineral, enhances the action of insulin and has previously been shown to protect against the adverse effects of a high-sugar diet on blood pressure in animals. This study compared the effects of different chromium compounds on sugar-induced high blood pressure and free radical production. Animals that spontaneously develop hypertension were fed diets supplemented with one of five chromium compounds: ChromeMate® niacin-bound chromium, Cr-picolinate, Cr-acetate, Cr-chloride and a chromium nicotinic acid/amino acid complex (NA-AA), then given sugar water (5% and 10% sucrose) to elevate blood pressure. All of the chromium compounds except NA-AA effectively prevented the sugar-induced rise in systolic pressure compared to non-supplemented control animals. ChromeMate®, Cr-acetate and Cr-picolinate also lowered levels of the biomarker for long-term blood sugar control, HbA1C. Only ChromeMate® and acetate significantly reduced free radical damage to fats in both the liver and kidneys as measured by TBARS, while picolinate lowered damage in the kidneys. These results demonstrate that chromium from various compound forms can act as an antioxidant and offset the effects of sugar-induced blood pressure in this animal model, though only ChromeMate® showed significant beneficial effects on all of the parameters measured.

ChromeMate® Plus Guar Protect Against Sugar-Induced High Blood Pressure in Animals

Wed, 27 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Researchers have reported that increased blood pressure occurs in lab animals as well as humans when consuming high-sugar diets. Evidence points to changes in insulin metabolism as the underlying reason for this observation. Chromium, an essential trace mineral, and guar, a soluble fiber, can influence blood sugar and insulin. Chromium enhances the activity of insulin, which is needed for glucose to enter cells. Guar may help stabilize blood sugar levels by slowing the absorption of dietary carbohydrates. This study examined the effects of guar and chromium in laboratory animals that are genetically prone to develop hypertension. Groups of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were fed moderate- and high-sugar (sucrose) diets to elevate blood pressure beyond that caused by their genetic makeup. The addition of chromium (nicotinate, amino-acid bound) at 7.5 ppm effectively prevented the sugar-induced rise in systolic blood pressure, as did guar. Increased body weight and organ weights were observed in the chromium supplemented animals. In a second experiment, 25 ppm chromium polynicotinate (ChromeMate®) was added to the diets. ChromeMate® provided complete protection against sugar-induced increases in systolic blood pressure, and did not alter body weight. Since changes in insulin metabolism may be a factor in essential hypertension, the authors suggest that ChromeMate® plus guar could prove helpful for diabetics with hypertension or those with essential high blood pressure.

ChromeMate® Plus Grape Seed Extract Reduces Signs of Early Atherosclerosis in Animals

Wed, 27 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Atherosclerosis is characterized by the formation of artery-clogging plaque on the inner walls of blood vessels. Eventually, the plaque can rupture and obstruct blood flow, leading to heart attack and stroke. In humans, a chromium-nicotinic acid complex (ChromeMate®) has been reported to lower elevated cholesterol—a risk factor for atherosclerosis. This study examined the effects of ChromeMate® plus antioxidant-rich grape seed extract in a hamster model of atherosclerosis. Hamsters, which have a similar lipid profile to that of humans, were fed a high cholesterol and saturated fat diet (0.2% cholesterol and 10% coconut oil). After 10 weeks on this diet the animals developed foam cells, a sign of early atherosclerosis. Grape seed extract added to the diet at concentrations of 50 and 100 mg/kg body weight reduced by 50% and 63%, respectively, the amount of foam cells within the aorta– the main conduit for carrying blood from the heart to other tissues in the body. A reduction of 32% in foam cells resulted when the diet was supplemented with both chromium (40 mg/kg body weight) and the lower grape seed concentration. Chromium and grape seed combined was more effective than grape seed alone in lowering total cholesterol and triglycerides, which were reduced by 42% and 77%, respectively. The combination also decreased TBARS, a marker of oxidative stress, by 77%. No reduction in TBARS was observed with grape seed alone. These results demonstrate that ChromeMate® plus grape seed extract can decrease objective signs of early atherosclerosis, as well as important risk factors for this disease in hamsters.

Protykin® Shown to Effectively Act Against Helicobacter pylori In Vitro

Tue, 07 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The common bacteria, Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) have been implicated in gastric ulcers, chronic gastritis and cancer. H. pylori is present in nearly 50% of the global population. Conventional treatment includes antibiotics such as clarithromycin, although resistance to this antibiotic is steadily growing. Protykin® is a natural extract from Polygonum cuspidatum that contains 50% trans-resveratrol, an antioxidant compound present in red wines. Researchers evaluated the effects of compounds with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties against a toxin-producing strain of H. pylori. Protykin®, vitamins C and E, and the antioxidant garcinol from Garcinia indica , were each added to preparations of H. pylori cells, which were cultured and grown. H. pylori colonies were counted and compared to control cultures with no added antioxidants. The experiments were then repeated with the addition of clairthromycin to all cultures. Vitamin C, Protykin®, and garcinol alone, destroyed 37%, 91% and 87% of the bacteria, respectively. Protykin® alone was just as effective as a mixture of garcinol and Protykin®, while vitamin E had no effect. Adding clarithromycin to the individual antioxidants increased the number of bacteria killed by 55-76% compared to controls. In addition to their antimicrobial action, the antioxidants might also help to reduce the free radical damage and gastric injury produced by H. pylori. The authors conclude that Protykin®, as well as vitamin C and garcinol, are potential, natural antagonists to H. Pylori.

Super CitriMax® Shown to Reduce Levels of Neuropeptide Y In Vitro

Mon, 06 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Super CitriMax® is a novel potassium/calcium salt of hydroxycitric acid (HCA) derived from Garcinia cambogia. HCA has been reported to reduce appetite and decrease body weight both in animals and humans. Super CitriMax® was previously shown in isolated brain tissue to increase the release of serotonin, a brain chemical that helps regulate appetite, sleep and mood. This experiment examined the effect of Super CitriMax® on the release of neuropeptide Y, a nervous system transmitter shown to stimulate food intake. Tissue samples from the hypothalamus and cortex of rat brains were pre-treated with varying amounts of Super CitriMax®, then chemically provoked to release neuropeptide Y. Super CitriMax® significantly reduced neuropeptide Y levels in the hypothalamus, an area of the brain involved in controlling hunger. The results suggest that Super CitriMax® may act to reduce food intake, in part, by reducing neuropeptide Y levels.

Protykin® Demonstrates Cardio-Protection In Vitro

Mon, 06 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

During a heart attack or stroke, tissue can be injured when blood flow is blocked (ischemia) and then restored (reperfusion) after a period of time. Tissue damage from ischemia is due to a lack of oxygen and nutrients, while restoring blood flow and oxygen generates cell-damaging free radicals. Humans are capable of preconditioning the heart—a protective process where brief periods of ischemia and reperfusion condition the heart, making it more resistant to longer periods of ischemia. Understanding the biochemical signaling pathways of this process will help develop more effective therapies to protect the heart from injury. Resveratrol, an antioxidant compound found in red wine, was reported to help precondition the heart by activating Cyclic-AMP Response Element Binding, or CREB proteins, which switch genes on and off. The activation of CREB by resveratrol was identified as being dependent on the enzyme protein kinase. In the present study, isolated animal hearts were exposed to Protykin®, a standardized 50% resveratrol extract, in the absence or presence of chemicals that block compounds along the CREB activation pathway. The effect of each chemical on the heart-protecting action of Protykin® was assessed by measuring tissue damage, cell death and ventricular recovery after ischemia and reperfusion. Protykin® can act through adenosine A3 receptor signaling as well as through protein kinase to trigger CREB activation. The results indicate that Protykin® affects several pathways that lead to heart protection.

ChromeMate® Found Safe in a Broad Range of Toxicity Tests

Mon, 02 May 2005 00:00:00 GMT

ChromeMate® is a niacin-bound form of chromium that promotes normal insulin function. To determine the safety of ChromeMate®, a wide range of standard toxicity studies were conducted. In acute oral testing, the LD50 of ChromeMate® in male and female rats was found to be greater than 5,000 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg) of body weight. The acute dermal LD50, determined by exposing the test animal’s skin to ChromeMate®, was higher than 2,000 mg/kg. Both acute oral and skin LD50 values are relatively high, indicating that the ability of ChromeMate® to cause harm when exposed to a single high dose is relatively low. Additionally, ChromeMate® was only slightly irritating to the skin and practically non-irritating to the eye. ChromeMate® did not cause any genetic changes when tested for mutagenic effects in five bacterial strains and in mouse lymphoma cells. Blood, clinical chemistry and microscopic tissue evaluations did not show any adverse effects in organs after a 90 day sub-chronic toxicity study of ChromeMate® administered in increasing doses. ChromeMate® did not damage lipids in the liver or cause fragmentation of DNA over the course of the sub-acute study. These results from a wide array of toxicity testing, demonstrate and support the broad spectrum safety of ChromeMate®.

UC-II® Shown to Improve Symptoms and Increase Quality of Life in Arthritic Dogs

Mon, 02 May 2005 00:00:00 GMT

UC-II® is a unique, undenatured form of type II collagen, the major structural protein in joints and connective tissue. UC-II® was previously reported to improve joint flexibility and arthritic symptoms in older people. Obesity, aging, injury and immune dysfunction can commonly lead to arthritis in dogs, especially larger breeds. To evaluate the clinical effects and safety of UC-II®, two groups of overweight arthritic dogs received either 1 or 10 mg of undenatured type II collagen as UC-II® daily for a 3 month period, while a third group served as controls. Lameness and pain after physical activity were noticeably reduced in both groups receiving UC-II®. Greater improvement was observed with the higher dose than the lower dose, and both doses were well-tolerated. No side-effects were noted in dogs taking UC-II®, and there were no significant changes in blood biomarkers of liver and kidney function. Importantly, UC-II®-treated animals lost a significant amount of body weight as a result of becoming more physically active. Overall pain, pain with motion, and exercise-induced lameness were monitored weekly for an additional month after treatment was stopped. All dogs experienced a relapse during this period, suggesting that the earlier improvements were due to UC-II® supplementation. These findings suggest that daily use of UC-II® can safely improve symptoms and quality of life in arthritic dogs.

Super CitriMax® Reduces Weight Regain After Weight Loss in Animals

Tue, 22 Feb 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Super CitriMax®, a novel calcium/potassium-bound hydroxycitric acid complex (HCA-SX) derived from Garcinia cambogia, has been reported to suppress body weight regain and food intake in laboratory animals following substantial weight loss. Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) has been shown to reduce body fat by increasing fatty acid oxidation, or the burning of fat as fuel. The soluble fiber guar gum appears to blunt food intake by slowing the digestive process and increasing satiety, the feeling of fullness. The current study examined whether CLA and guar gum modify the long term effects of HCA-SX on weight regain. Rats were fed calorie-restricted diets for 10 days, then divided into 7 groups and allowed to consume food freely. Animals fed HCA-SX at 3% of the diet consumed significantly less food and regained less body weight compared to controls, as did all groups fed HCA-SX (HCA-SX with guar gum or guar gum and CLA along with HCA-SX). However, neither CLA (1%) nor guar gum (3%) combined with HCA-SX increased the effectiveness of HCA-SX alone on blunting food intake and weight regain. When given separately, CLA and guar gum had no effect on these parameters. The combination of HCA-SX and CLA, as well as HCA-SX combined with CLA and guar, led to a lower fat content in the liver. These results demonstrate that HCA-SX is effective at blunting food intake and weight regain after significant loss of body weight, while CLA and guar gum do not further enhance these effects. The present study supports the use of Super CitriMax® as a safe, effective weight management aid for appetite suppression, weight loss and weight maintenance.

Aller-7® Found to Reduce Major Symptoms of Airborne Allergies in Multicenter Clinical Trial

Tue, 22 Feb 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Aller-7®, a patented blend of seven standardized herbal extracts, has been shown to demonstrate potent anti-histaminic, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic and antioxidant activity. Its safety and tolerability profile has also been determined in previous studies. The current 12-week investigation evaluated the effects of Aller-7® in established cases of chronic allergic rhinitis in 545 adult patients at 14 research centers. A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with 171 patients was conducted at 3 clinical centers, while 374 patients were enrolled in an open-label trial at 11 sites. Patients in the placebo-controlled trial were randomly assigned to receive 4 capsules of Aller-7® daily (1,320 mg of Aller-7®), or placebo capsules identical in appearance. Clinical symptoms and objective parameters were assessed in the 151 and 352 subjects who completed the placebo-controlled and open-label trials, respectively. Over the 12-week period, 94% of patients in the open-label trials and 92% of patients in the placebo-controlled trials treated with Aller-7® reported an improvement in symptoms ranging from more than 40 to 100 percent. Complete relief from sneezing, runny nose and nasal congestion in open-label trials was seen in 28, 27 and 45 patients, respectively. Significant improvement was also seen in absolute eosinophil count (white blood cells active in allergic disease), mucociliary clearance (movement of mucous from the nasal passage), and peak nasal and expiratory flow rates—measures of nasal congestion. In the open-label study, over 90% of the participants using Aller-7® experienced an improvement of more than 40% in sneezing, runny nose and nasal congestion. No serious side-effects were observed, thus demonstrating that Aller-7® is both well-tolerated and efficacious in combating the symptoms of airborne allergies. These results are consistent with those of previous clinical studies and show that Aller-7® is useful in reducing the major symptoms of allergic rhinitis or “hay fever.”

Aller-7® Shown to Reduce Inflammation in Animals

Tue, 22 Feb 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Allergic rhinitis occurs when the body’s immune system over-reacts to a substance such as pollen or dust, resulting in inflammation of the mucous membranes that line the nasal passage. Aller-7®, a blend of seven standardized plant extracts, was developed to address the symptoms of this common immunologic disorder. Aller-7® has been shown in previous studies to promote respiratory health and to inhibit the release of histamine, a mediator of allergic symptoms. The present study investigated the anti-inflammatory activity of Aller-7® in several in vivo animal models. In one strain of mice, a dose of 250 mg/kg/bw Aller-7® inhibited chemically-induced paw edema or swelling by 62% compared to controls. Aller-7® was more effective than the anti-inflammatory medication prednisolone, which inhibited edema by 45% at an oral dose of 14 mg/kg/bw. In a second strain of mice, edema was reduced at doses ranging from 175 to 275 mg/kg/bw, with 225 mg/kg/bw exhibiting the most potent effect. In rats, Aller-7® (120 mg/kg p.o) inhibited chemically-induced acute inflammation by 31%, compared to 68% inhibition by ibuprofen (50 mg/kg p.o.). In a model of artificially-induced arthritis, Aller-7® demonstrated a 63% inhibitory effect on swelling at a dose of 350 mg/kg po. Additionally, Aller-7® was observed to be a potent inhibitor of trypsin, a tissue-damaging enzyme released by immune cells (mast cells) during the inflammatory response. The consistency of these results, as well as those of previous studies, demonstrates the anti-inflammatory activity of Aller-7® and supports its use as a dietary supplement by those who suffer from allergic rhinitis.