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Phytochemicals

VII. Phytochemicals… Potent Antioxidants Related to Activz Nutritional Products

Phytochemicals – Definition:

Phytochemicals are sometimes referred to as phytonutrients; these terms are often used interchangeably. In broad terms, they are said to be any chemical or nutrient-derived from a plant source. However, in common usage, they have a more limited definition. The term phytochemical is usually used to refer to compounds found in plants that are not required for normal functioning of the body but that nonetheless have a beneficial effect on health and well being or have an active role in the improvement of a disease caused condition.
—–Information from Dole Institute of Nutrition www.dolenutrition.com

Below is a list of some of the Phytochemicals/Phytonutrients that are present in certain plant derived nutrients used in Activz nutritional formulations:

  • Alpha-Lipoic Acid

    Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) is a potent antioxidant. It helps to dissolve toxic substances in the liver. Its main function is to increase production of glutathione. Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) is the only antioxidant that is both fat and water soluble. This is important because Alpha Lipoic Acid can access all parts of the cell, giving it tremendous ability to trap free radicals wherever they may be. The body needs ALA to produce energy. It plays a crucial role in the mitochondria, the energy-producing structures in cells. The body actually makes enough ALA for these basic metabolic functions. This compound acts as an antioxidant, however, only when there is an excess of it and it is in the “free” state in the cells.
    ALA is one of the very few substances that can actually cross the blood/brain barrier to enter the brain and go directly where it is needed most. ALA supplementation causes increased levels of glutathione, which helps the body dispose of toxins. This is important as glutathione protects the brain from free radical damage, and low levels of glutathione in the brain are associated with brain disorders such as stroke, dementia, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. One of the leading causes of the symptoms we know as aging is free radical damage. ALA is found in a variety of vegetables such as spinach, kale, broccoli and Brussels sprouts.

  • Anthocyanins

    Anthocyanins are phytonutrients that give some fruits and vegetables their red, blue, and purple colors. According to researchers, anthocyanins possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-aging and anti-carcinogenic properties. Fruits and vegetables with significant quantities of anthocyanins include cherries, pomegranate, plums, red cabbage, grapes, apples, and most berries.
    —–Information from Dole Institute of Nutrition www.dolenutrition.com

  • Apigenin

    Apigenin is one of the flavonoids – more precisely one of the citrus bioflavonoids. As with many flavonoids, apigenin has potential to reduce the risk of cancer since it has anti-tumor activity. Apigenin also could potentially be useful in allergic conditions since it can have anti-inflammatory properties… perhaps apigenin can even block the formation of uric acid leading to beneficial effects in gout. Apigenin has anti-carcinogenic and anti-viral agents that are proving effective for the treatment of HIV and other infections. Apigenin has also been used in the treatment of diseases including inflammatory bowel disease and skin conditions. Foods rich in apigenin include apples, endive, thyme, lemon, beans, broccoli, celery, cherries, cloves, grapes, leeks, onions, barley, parsley and tomatoes, while plant- derived beverages containing apigenin include tea and wine. Apigenin is natural flavonoid present in the leaves and stems of vascular plants, including fruits and vegetables.
    —–Ray Sahelian, M.D: Euro J Pharmacology. 2005 Apr 11;512 (2-3):189-98.

  • Astaxanthin

    Astaxanthin is a powerful red pigment antioxidant. Most crustaceans, including shrimp, crawfish, crabs and lobster, are tinted red by accumulated astaxanthin. The free radical scavenging activity of astaxanthin protects lipids from peroxidation and reduces oxidative damage of LDL-cholesterol (thereby reducing arterial plaque formation), cells, cell membranes, mitochondrial membranes. Astaxanthin increases strength and endurance. Astaxanthin is shown to improve the immune system by increasing the number of antibody producing cells. Astaxanthin enhances antibody production by exerting actions on T-cells and T-helper cells. Astaxanthin is used to treat neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Astaxanthin is also effective in protecting the eyes and skin from sun radiation damage by quenching singlet and triplet oxygen. Additionally,
    studies have shown the anti-cancer effects of astaxanthin….. the inhibitory effect of astaxanthin on cancer is stronger than that of beta-carotene.

  • Beta-carotene

    Beta-carotene is an antioxidant phytonutrient that can be converted to vitamin A when digested and has many independent health benefits ranging from enhancing sun protection to promoting heart health. What’s more, in a new Dutch study dietary intake of beta- carotene was found to reduce mortality from any cause – including cancer. Top dietary sources include sweet potatoes, butternut squash, carrots, red bell peppers, spinach, kale, and pumpkin.

  • Betacyanin

    Another phytonutrient, Betacyanin is the nitrogen-containing red pigment of beets. The anthocyanins are common plant pigments. Betacyanins generally appear red to red violet in color. Many leaves frequently develop red coloration during development and at maturity. Most plants produce anthocyanins as the basis of this color, but members of the Caryophyllales (flowering plants) produce nitrogenous pigments called betacyanins. Research shows that betacyanins will protect the body against harmful pathogens.

  • Carotenoids

    Carotenoids are a large class of natural plant pigments responsible for the red color of tomatoes, orange color of carrots, and yellow color of squash. They are also found in green leafy vegetables but their colors are masked by green chlorophyll. Over 500 compounds comprise this family including lycopene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and alpha- and beta-carotene, among others. These phytochemicals have strong antioxidant properties and are reported to reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration and possibly some types of cancer. Top sources of carotenoids include spinach, kale, butternut squash, pumpkin, red bell peppers, carrots, tomatoes, cantaloupe and sweet potatoes.
    —–Information from Dole Institute of Nutrition www.dolenutrition.com

  • Cryptoxanthin

    Cryptoxanthin may protect against other diseases associated with aging, including heart disease, skin cancer, prostate cancer, and arthritis. Like other carotenoids, cryptoxanthin almost certainly plays a key role in keeping the eyes healthy and preventing against age- related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts. Research also indicates that cryptoxanthin may play a role in the prevention of many other serious health conditions, including Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), asthma, chronic yeast infection, and infertility. Oranges, papaya, peaches, and tangerines all contain a lot of cryptoxanthin. Other sources include red bell peppers, cilantro, corn, and watermelon.

  • Ellagitannin (Ellagic Acid)

    Research indicates that Ellagic Acid slows the growth of abnormal colon cells in humans, prevents the development of cells infected with human papilloma virus (HPV) which is linked to cervical cancer, and promotes apoptotic growth (natural death) of prostate cancer cells. The apoptotic process, triggered by this antioxidant (ellagitannin) also has beneficial effects on breast, lung, esophageal, and skin cancer (melanoma). Medical studies in Europe further show that ellagic acid reduces the occurrence of birth defects, promotes wound healing, reduces and reverses chemically induced liver fibrosis, and is helpful in the fight against heart disease. Pomegranates and Muscadine (Red) Grapes provide large amounts of this potent antioxidant.

  • Flavonoids (Bioflavonoids)

    Flavonoids are a class of phytonutrients which research shows may have antioxidant, antiviral, anti-platelet, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. Flavonoids are found in the rind of fruits and vegetables. More than four thousand flavonoids have been identified in plants. Flavonoids are beneficial nutrients for health and should be part of any diet for optimal immunity. Numerous studies have shown that people eating high- flavonoid diets have a lower-than-average risk of developing heart disease and cancer. These nutrients also enhance the activity of white blood cells and boost the body’s defenses against a broad range of infections, from urinary tract infections to HIV. Most brightly colored fruits and vegetables supply flavonoids.

  • Ferulic Acid

    The phytochemical ferulic acid is found in the leaves and seeds of many plants, but especially in cereals such as brown rice, whole wheat and oats. Ferulic acid is also apples, artichokes, oranges and pineapples. Ferulic acid is an antioxidant which neutralizes free radicals (super oxide (SOD), nitric oxide and hydroxyl radical) which could cause oxidative damage of cell membranes and DNA. Ferulic acid helps to prevent damage to our cells caused by ultraviolet light. Exposure to ultraviolet light actually increases the antioxidant potency of ferulic acid. Studies have shown that ferulic acid can decrease blood glucose levels and can be of help to diabetes patients. Ferulic acid seems to protect against cancer, bone degeneration, menopausal symptoms (hot flushes). Like many other antioxidants, ferulic acid reduces the level of cholesterol and triglyceride, thereby reducing the risk of hearth disease. Ferulic acid seems to reduce the risk of many cancers, including cancer of the stomach, colon, breast, prostate, liver, lung and tongue.

  • Gamma Oryzanol

    Gamma Oryzanol is a mixture of plant sterols and ferulic acid esters that are derived from rice bran, barley and corn. Gamma Oryzanol has been used to treat medical conditions, including heartburn, nausea, vomiting, under active thyroid, physical injuries, and muscular aches and pains. Gamma Oryzanol stimulates the release of endorphins – the body’s so- called “feel good” hormones.

    These hormones stimulate the pleasure centers of the brain, and this stimulation results in an elevation of mood. Gamma Oryzanol has been proven to have very strong antioxidant activity. In fact, one study showed that it was up to ten times stronger than Vitamin E for scavenging free radicals from the body and preventing tissue damage that results from free radical action. As a nutritional supplement, gamma oryzanol has become popular among athletes and bodybuilders because it may boost strength, increase muscle gain, reduce body fat, speed recovery and reduce post-exercise soreness.

  • Genistein

    Genistein, an isoflavone is found in soy products and holds great promise as a natural cancer preventative. There are a number of isoflavones in soy products, but research has shown that genistein is the most potent inhibitor of the growth and spread of cancerous cells. Coupled with epidemiological studies, which suggest a strong cancer preventative effect of high soy diets, genistein is being scrutinized as a potential anti-cancer drug. Isoflavones are multipurpose biochemicals that have several functions in the soy plant….they contribute color to the soybean, protect the plant against bacterial and fungal infections, and serve a hormone-like role (as a phytoestrogen) in plant cell regulation. Scientists are discovering that when people eat soy products, such as tofu and soymilk, isoflavones and their derivatives produce health benefits in addition to nutritional values. Research suggests that soy isoflavones benefit humans in four ways: as estrogens and antiestrogens, as cancer-enzyme inhibitors, as antioxidants, and as immune system enhancers or stimulants.

  • Glucosinolates

    Glucosinolates are a group of sulfur-rich phytonutrients found in cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower. Glucosinolates act as “indirect” antioxidants, which research shows stimulate the body’s own natural antioxidant systems. This cascade of antioxidant activity actually cycles over and over within the physiology, continuing to protect your system for as many as 3 to 4 days after the glucosinolate-containing food/supplement has been consumed. Two of the most researched glucosinolate metabolites include indole-3-carbinol and sulforaphane.
    Several studies have shown that indole-3-carbinol may be effective in reducing estrogen- sensitive cancers, such as breast and ovarian cancer. Researchers from Johns Hopkins University have reported that sulforaphane triggers the body’s own natural detoxification systems and may prevent a variety of cancers, including breast and stomach cancers.
    —–Information from Dole Institute of Nutrition www.dolenutrition.com
    —–Johns Hopkins University

  • Hesperitin

    Hesperitin is one of the Citrus bioflavonoids. A high-vegetable diet with various fruits and vegetables daily including on average one glass of orange juice, one-half orange and one- half mandarin provides 130 mg of hesperitin and 30 mg of naringenin. Hesperitin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Hesperitin can also act as a vasodilator, which may be useful in Hypertension.

  • Indole-3-carbinol

    Indole-3-carbinol is produced from indole-3-glucosinolate via the action of the enzyme myrosinase (thioglucoside glucohydrolase), an enzyme which is present in cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, broccoli sprouts, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, bok choy and kale)and activated upon maceration of the vegetables. Indole-3-carbinol is a strong antioxidants and stimulators of detoxifying enzymes. Indole-3-Carbinol seems to protect the structure of DNA. Indole-3-carbinol blocks estrogen receptor sites on the membranes of breast and other cells, thereby reducing the risk of breast and cervical cancer.
    Indole-3-carbinol has protective properties against several types of cancer. Studies have demonstrated that indole-3-carbinol reduced the carcinogenic affects of aflatoxins*. Additionally, Indol-3-carbinol protects against carcinogenic effect of pesticides and other toxins.

    * When certain types of fungus grow on food, they produce minute amounts of toxins. One such toxin is aflatoxin. Some of these fungi (primarily Aspergillus flavus) produce the very lethal mycotoxins called aflatoxins. Aflatoxins are remarkably potent, often causing disease even when ingested in minute amounts. Aflatoxins can cause disease throughout the body, but are most commonly known for causing acute or chronic liver disease and liver cancer.

  • Lignans

    Lignans are phytonutrients found in both seeds and grains and are a type of carbohydrate. The latest research suggests that it is the presence of lignans in flaxseeds/oil that boast the most benefit. Lignans are a polyphenol compound called secoisolariciresinal glucoside (SDG). Their significant ability to prevent cancer is recognized by the National Cancer Institute. In addition to having anti-cancer properties SDG’s also have anti-viral, anti- bacterial and anti-fungus properties. Lignans are activated in the colon by friendly bacteria thereby strengthening immune system function against a number of diseases. Lignans contain phyto-estrogens that mimic estrogen in the body and can be used as an alternative to Hormone Replacement Therapy. Increased phyto-estrogens have the potential to lower breast and colon cancer. Recent research indicates that lignans may be able capable of inhibiting the formation of tumors.

  • Lignans

    Lignans are phytonutrients found in both seeds and grains and are a type of carbohydrate. The latest research suggests that it is the presence of lignans in flaxseeds/oil that boast the most benefit. Lignans are a polyphenol compound called secoisolariciresinal glucoside (SDG). Their significant ability to prevent cancer is recognized by the National Cancer Institute. In addition to having anti-cancer properties SDG’s also have anti-viral, anti- bacterial and anti-fungus properties. Lignans are activated in the colon by friendly bacteria thereby strengthening immune system function against a number of diseases. Lignans contain phyto-estrogens that mimic estrogen in the body and can be used as an alternative to Hormone Replacement Therapy. Increased phyto-estrogens have the potential to lower breast and colon cancer. Recent research indicates that lignans may be able capable of inhibiting the formation of tumors.

  • Limonoids

    Limonoids are phytochemicals, abundant in citrus fruits. They account for the scent of fresh lemon or orange peel. Many of the plants used in traditional healing, such as Neem, are rich in limonoids. Currently limonoids are under a great deal of research for a wide variety of therapeutic effects such as antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial, antineoplastic and antimalarial. Recent research results shows that Limonoids have many biological functions….such as anti-cancer activity. Limonoids have shown to reduce the risk of following cancers: Oral cavity, larynx, esophagus, stomach, pancreas, lung, colon, and rectum. More than twenty epidemiological studies suggest an inverse relation between consumption of citrus fruits (limonoids) and many types of cancer.

  • Lutein

    Lutein is an antioxidant carotenoid that helps filter high energy light waves that may cause free radical damage to the eyes. This may be why Lutein is thought to reduce the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration – a leading cause of blindness among the elderly. Top sources of lutein include spinach, kale, chicory, collard greens, green peas, and lettuce.
    —–Information from Dole Institute of Nutrition www.dolenutrition.com

  • Lycopene

    Lycopene is a carotenoid that promotes heart health by preventing LDL “bad” cholesterol oxidation and reducing inflammation (a marker of heart disease). Harvard researchers found that eating seven or more servings per week of tomatoes (that includes tomato sauce) might reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by 30 percent. Studies also show this colorful carotenoid may keep the prostate healthy and lower the risk of ovarian, cervical, oral, pharyngeal, esophageal, stomach, colorectal, lung and pancreatic cancers. Lycopene may even enhance male fertility. Top sources include watermelon, tomatoes, red bell peppers, pink/red grapefruit, pink-fleshed guava, and persimmons.
    —–Information from Dole Institute of Nutrition www.dolenutrition.com

  • Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins

    Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins or OPCs are a class of flavonoid complexes found in grape seeds and skin, that act as antioxidants (free radical scavengers) in the human body. Some researchers also call these molecules “pycnogenol”. The main functions of proanthocyanidins are antioxidant activity, stabilization of collagen, and maintenance of elastin-two critical proteins in connective tissue, blood vessels and muscles.
    Research strongly suggests that OPCs may help the following:

    • Protect against the effects of internal and environmental stresses (such as cigarette smoking, pollution, and supporting normal body metabolic processes). The effects may include strengthening all the blood vessels and improving the delivery of oxygen to the cells, depressing blood fat, emolliating blood vessels, lowering blood pressure, preventing blood vessel scleroses, dropping blood viscidity and preventing thrombus formation (a type of platelet clot).
    • Proanthocyanidins also have an affinity for cell membranes, providing nutritional support to reduce capillary permeability and fragility. Although bioflavonoids are widespread in nature, the powerful proanthocyanidins compound is most abundant and available from grape seeds grape skin and, the bark of the maritime pine.
    • Proanthocyanidins help improve circulation. Proanthocyanidins strengthen capillary walls, therefore improving circulation. This is especially important for people with compromised circulatory systems, such as stroke victims, diabetics, arthritics, smokers, oral contraceptive users and people with general cardiovascular insufficiencies.
    • Proanthocyanidins inhibit the body’s enzymes that break down collagen. All cells connect to one another with strong fibers called collagen. Proanthocyanidins help collagen repair and rebuild correctly which can reverse damage done over the years by injury and free radical attack. The breakdown of collagen is what causes our skin to lose its elasticity which in turn causes wrinkles. Proanthocyanidins help keep skin elastic, smooth and wrinkle-free. Proanthocyanidins also act as a natural, internal sunscreen.
    • Proanthocyanidins cross the blood-brain barrier to protect the blood vessels in the brain. Unlike most other nutritional supplements, the beneficial effects of proanthocyanidins cross the blood-brain barrier. This enables proanthocyanidins to fight free radicals in the vessels of the brain that in turn will help them remain healthy. This can result in increased mental acuity, a decreased potential for stroke, and possibly in fighting senility.
    • Proanthocyanidins are also used in the treatment of allergies.

  • Phenolics

    Phenolics, or polyphenols, comprise a large category of phytochemicals that include flavonoids (the largest group), phenolic acids, and coumarins. The phenolics family is so large that it is difficult to generalize their health benefits. However, it is safe to say that dietary phenolics are strong antioxidants that protect against free radicals, which can damage cells and are linked to the development of chronic diseases and the aging process. Most brightly colored fruits and vegetables supply phenolics.
    —–Information from Dole Institute of Nutrition www.dolenutrition.com

  • Phytosterols

    Phytosterols are cholesterol-like molecules found in all plant foods, with the highest concentrations occurring in vegetable oils. They are absorbed only in trace amounts but inhibit the absorption of intestinal cholesterol including re-circulating endogenous biliary cholesterol, a key step in cholesterol elimination.

  • Polyphenols

    Polyphenols are a large family of natural compounds widely distributed in plant foods. Green tea polyphenols and polyphenols from red wine have attracted a great deal of media attention. Several studies have shown that a group of polyphenol antioxidant compounds found in grapes, green tea, soybeans and red wine may lower the risk of a range of cancers. Researchers report that plant-derived polyphenols can slow the growth of cancer cells and curb the spread of cells by triggering a series or reactions that causes the cells to self- destruct, a process known as apoptosis.

    A number of medical conditions could be prevented or improved with the use of polyphenols. These include circulatory disorders such as hypertension and coronary artery and heart disease, lung disorders such as asthma, cancers of various types, inflammatory conditions, certain liver conditions, diabetes, mood disorders, eye disorders such as cataracts, weak eyesight due to aging, and macular degeneration. Polyphenols have anti- inflammatory properties, immune system anti-microbial activity, anti-tumor and anti- carcinogenicity properties and are potent antioxidants. Additionally, high intake of polyphenols is likely to have beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system.

  • Pterostilbene

    Researchers at the American Chemical Society along with the U.S. Department of Agriculture have identified another phytonutrient compound in grapes that they believe shows promise in fighting cancer. The compound, pterostilbene, is similar to resveratrol, an antioxidant recently found in grapes and red wine that has also been linked to cancer- prevention, they say. Studies by others have demonstrated that pterostilbene also has anti-diabetic properties. One study showed that it could lower plasma glucose levels (high blood sugar) by as much as 42 percent.

    The conclusion: That there’s another compound in grapes with equal cancer-fighting power as resveratrol, but which also has anti-diabetic properties as well. It appears that pterostilbene is equal in potency to resveratrol as a cancer-preventive agent. Their similar effect is likely due to the high antioxidant activity of these compounds.

  • Punicalagin

    Punicalagin, a potent phytochemical and antioxidant is the most abundant ellagitannin in pomegranates. Researchers at UCLA’s Center for Human Nutrition (Los Angeles) have found that punicalagin is a highly potent antioxidant. In addition, punicalagin appears to have even more potent effects when it is combined with other antioxidant compounds in pomegranate. Studies have focused on the ability of Punicalagin to address cardiovascular health and prevent carcinogenesis. Punicalagin (from pomegranate juice and powdered extracts) showed a significant reduction in LDL oxidative susceptibility and an increase in total antioxidant status; further, consumption of pomegranate juice appears to reduce systolic blood pressure and carotid intima-media thickness. Punicalagin was also found in a Iranian study of Type II diabetic patients to significantly reduce LDL and total cholesterol values. In another study, Punicalagin was able to reduce the progression of atherosclerosis

  • Quercetin

    Quercetin is a phytonutrient found in elderberries, onions, apples, red grapes, blueberries, cranberries, broccoli and bilberries. Research from Cornell University suggests that quercetin may protect brain cells against the kind of oxidative stress associated with Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative disorders. Studies have also shown quercetin has anti-inflammatory properties and may reduce the risk of heart disease as well as lung and prostate cancers.

  • Saponins

    Saponins are present in some foods, such as soybeans, peas, oats and spinach and in addition to all of the health benefits listed below, can accelerate the body’s ability to absorb calcium and silicon. Saponins are natural detergents and are also found in many desert plants such as the desert Yucca and Quillaja Saponaria plant found in Chile. Some great health features include:

    • Recent studies at University of Toronto, Department of Nutritional Science, have indicated that dietary sources of saponins offer preferential chemo preventive strategy in lowering the risk of human cancers. With strong antioxidant effects, saponins where shown to inhibit the growth of and kill cancer cells. With anti-carcinogenic properties saponins enhance the immune system and have been shown to regulate the proliferation of cancer cells….particularly colon cancer. Saponins may also be able to do it without killing normal cells in the process that is the mode of present cancer-fighting drugs. Cancer cells have more cholesterol-type compounds in their membranes than normal cells. Saponins can bind cholesterol and thus interfere with cell growth and division. While drugs have side effect, many of them serious, saponins are safe.
    • Saponins are widely being researched for cholesterol control. Saponins cause a depletion of body cholesterol by preventing its re-absorption. Saponins bind with cholesterol so it cannot be re-absorbed into the system and is excreted from the body.
    • Immune System Strength: Saponins have long been known to have strong biological activity. When studying the effect that saponins have on plants, it has been discovered that saponins are the plants’ active immune system. Research looks very promising that the effects from saponins are indeed being transferred to the human body when ingested.
    • Saponins function as a ”natural antibiotic” for plants and now scientists are looking at how they can help humans fight fungal infections, combat microbes and viruses, boost the effectiveness of certain vaccines. Their natural tendency to ward off microbes may prove to be especially useful for treating those difficult to control fungal and yeast infections.
    • Saponins also boost energy. As we eliminate toxic buildup we have move vitality, health that in turns relates to more energy.

  • Sulforaphane

    Sulforaphane is an anticancer and antimicrobial compound which can be obtained by eating cruciferous vegetables such as brussel sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, bok choy, kale, collards, arugula, broccoli sprouts, chinese broccoli, mustard, turnip, radish, watercress and cabbage. The anticancer activity of sulforaphane enhances the transcription of tumor suppressor proteins.

  • Tocopherol (Vitamin E)

    Tocopherol, or vitamin E, is a fat-soluble vitamin in eight forms that is an important antioxidant.
    Natural Vitamin E exists in eight different forms or isomers, four tocopherols and four tocotrienols. There is an alpha, beta, gamma and delta form of both the tocopherols and tocotrienols. Each form has its own biological activity, which is the measure of potency or functional use in the body.
    In foods, the most abundant sources of vitamin E are vegetable oils such as palm oil, sunflower, corn, soybean, rice bran, wheat germ and olive oil. Nuts, sunflower seeds, grains, various seeds and seabuckthorn berries are also excellent sources. Other sources of vitamin E are whole grains, fish, peanut butter, and green leafy vegetables.

    Fortified breakfast cereals and other processed foods also contain Vitamin E, but all in synthetic form. Antioxidants such as Vitamin E act to protect cells against the effects of free radicals, which are potentially damaging by-products of the body’s metabolism. Free radicals can cause cell damage that may contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease and cancer. Vitamin C and other anti-oxidants recycle Vitamin E end-products back into effective suppressors of free radicals. Studies indicate that Vitamin E might help prevent or delay the development of a wide variety of chronic diseases.

  • Tocotrienols (Vitamin E)

    Vitamin E is one of the most important phytonutrients in edible oils. It consists of eight naturally occurring isomers, a family of four tocopherols (alpha, beta, gamma and delta) and four tocotrienols (alpha, beta, gamma and delta) homologues. Tocotrienols are part of the Vitamin E family. Tocotrienols have similar structure to tocopherols (Alpha- Tocopherol as the most common Vitamin E in the market), but contain three double bonds in the carbon side chain of the molecule. The Vitamin E family is comprised of eight different compounds: alpha, beta, gamma and delta- tocotrienols and tocopherols. Tocotrienols are naturally present in most plants. They are found mostly in palm oil, rice bran, wheat germ, oats and barley.
    The proven additional health benefits by over 128 research papers regarding humans are: • Tocotrienols have been shown by the Kenneth Jordan Heart Foundation (US) in a
    double-blind human study to have the ability to reverse arteriosclerosis. Tocotrienols have the ability to reverse blockage of the carotid artery and hence, reduce the risk of stroke and arteriosclerosis.

    • Tocotrienols have been shown by human and animal studies to have the ability to reduce the production of total serum cholesterols. They inhibit the enzyme HMG-Co A Reductase in the liver that is responsible for the production of cholesterols. Tocopherols have no effect on serum cholesterol.
    • Tocotrienols are very much more potent antioxidant than tocopherols. It has been shown by published research paper that alpha-tocotrienol is 40-60 times more potent than alpha-tocopherol in the prevention of lipid per oxidation. Delta- Tocotrienol is the most potent of all the commercially available tocotrienols.
    • Tocotrienol is an effective natural agent to prevent increased in blood pressure. It also enhanced total antioxidant status in plasma and blood vessels.
    • Tocotrienols especially delta and gamma-tocotrienols have been shown to inhibit certain type of cancers especially human breast cancer cells. In those studies, alpha tocopherol has no effect at all on human breast cancer cells.

    Palm and Rice based tocotrienols have also been shown by the University of California, Berkeley to be effective in preventing protein oxidation and lipid per oxidation after a strenuous bout of exercise.

    Athletes especially body builders and sprinters generate tremendous amount of free radicals in their body. Hence, tocotrienols being a very potent antioxidant and vitamin E, protects athletes and body builders against protein and lipid per oxidation. Individuals interested in enhancing their antioxidant status should take tocotrienols. Most Vitamin E supplements contain only alpha-tocopherol whereas rice bran and palm based tocotrienols contain tocotrienols, phytosterols (proven to prevent absorption of cholesterol), squalene (a powerful antioxidant) and carotenoids. The conclusion of recent research is that a combination of all of these phytonutrients may be highly effective in the overall maintenance of health.

  • Zeaxanthin

    Zeaxanthin is a strong antioxidant and one of two yellow carotenoids (lutein is the other) found in the eye that are believed to filter out harmful blue light and protect against age- related macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness in people over 65. According to USDA researchers, zeaxanthin intake may also reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, especially of the lung and breast. Leading sources include green leafy vegetables, orange peppers, and corn.
    —–Information from Dole Institute of Nutrition www.dolenutrition.com