Alpha-Lipoic Acid |
| ALA (also known as thiotic acid) is a nonessential "vitamin-like" natural antioxidant found widely in plant and animal sources. The body makes small amounts of alpha-lipoic acid. The richest sources in the human diet are yeast and liver. |
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Antioxidant |
| Antioxidants may neutralize the effects of free radicals (oxidants), which many scientists believe can be a cause of cell damage. Examples of antioxidant nutrients include: vitamins C and E and vitamin A as beta carotene. |
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Beta Carotene |
| Beta Carotene is an important source of vitamin A. It is believed to be a superior source of vitamin A because it is readily converted into a more active form of the substance. Good sources of beta carotene include: red, yellow, orange and many dark green leafy vegetables. |
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Biotin |
| Biotin is important for cell growth and the metabolism of fats, sugar and some amino acids. It helps to release energy from carbohydrates. Good sources of biotin include: eggs, liver, yeast breads and cereals. |
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Boron |
| Boron is a mineral present in the diet and in the human body in trace amounts. Boron may promote bone and joint health, particularly in women. Sources of boron include: raisins, peanuts, juices, fruits (other than citrus), leafy vegetables, legumes and nuts. |
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Calcium (Elemental) |
| Calcium is crucial in forming strong bones and teeth and is essential for muscle contraction and the transmission of nerve impulses. Good sources of calcium include: milk, yogurt and most cheeses, dark green leafy vegetables (like kale, broccoli, bok choy) and fish with edible bones. |
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Chloride |
| Chloride is a mineral generally consumed as sodium chloride or table salt. There is a high correlation between the sodium and chloride contents of the diet. Chloride serves as an electrolyte helping to preserve the fluids in our body and plays an important role in nerve function. Good sources of chloride include: table salt, chlorinated water, some fruits and vegetables. |
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Chondroitin Sulfate |
| Chondroitin Sulfate is a "glycosaminoglycan," which is basically a long chain of specialized polysaccharides (or sugars). In the body, chondroitin is used as a building block for larger structures known as proteoglycans—which are used to form connective tissue such as cartilage. Chondroitin is related in structure and function to another sugar derivative, glucosamine, both of which are widely used as dietary supplements to nourish joint cartilage. Chondroitin Sulfate is not found in the diet in appreciable amounts—the primary source is animal cartilage. Normally secreted by the cells that form cartilage (chondrocytes), chondroitin provides elasticity to joints by drawing fluid into cartilage tissue. |
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Chromium |
| Chromium, in combination with B vitamins, helps the body regulate fuel stores for energy. Good sources of chromium include: meat, eggs, whole-grain products and cheese. |
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Copper |
| Copper is important for the formation of bone, hemoglobin and red blood cells. Copper also helps keep nerves healthy, and is involved in hair and skin coloring and sensitivity to taste as well as aiding in the healing process. Good sources of copper include: organ meats, especially liver, seafood, nuts and seeds. |
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Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) |
| Coenzyme Q10 is found in the mitochondria (a specialized component of cells) of all cells. It functions as part of the cellular system that generates energy from oxygen for bodily processes. It is synthesized throughout the body, specifically in the heart, liver, kidney, and pancreas. Coenzyme Q10 is naturally found in foods such as beef, chicken, salmon, and broccoli, and is synthesized in all body tissues. |
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Daily Value |
| Daily value is used on labels to indicate the percent of the recommended daily amount of each nutrient that a serving of a food or vitamin/mineral supplement provides. Daily value has replaced the use of US RDA (United States recommended daily allowance) on labels. |
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EGCG |
| EGCG is a natural green tea extract. Green tea is prepared from the steamed and dried leaves of Camellia sinensis, a large shrub with evergreen leaves native to eastern Asia. Green tea is different from black tea in that it is produced from leaves that have been withered, rolled, fermented, and dried. Because of the curing process, the properties of the green tea are very similar to that of the fresh leaf. Green tea contains polyphenols (catechins), tannins, flavonols, and methylxanthines (caffeine, theophylline, theobromine). |
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Folic Acid |
| Folic acid is essential for the manufacture of DNA, the substances necessary for cell reproduction. It also promotes normal red blood cell formation. An adequate intake of folic acid is important to reduce the risk of certain birth defects. Good sources of folic acid include: leafy vegetables, some fruits, legumes, liver, yeast breads, wheat germ, and vegetable oils such as soybean, corn, cottonseed, and safflower. |
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Free Radicals |
| Free radicals are atoms or a group of atoms with an odd (unpaired) number of electrons and can be formed when oxygen interacts with certain molecules. They can do damage when they react with important cellular components, such as DNA, or the cell membranes. Cells may function poorly or die if this occurs. To prevent free radical damage, antioxidants support the body's defense system. |
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Ginkgo Biloba |
| The Ginkgo Biloba is a tree most commonly found in China and Far East. Ginkgo Biloba extract is obtained from the dried leaves. There have been many traditional uses for Ginkgo, although more recently, western culture has taken interest in the extract's cognition enhancing properties. Scientists believe that, with aging, the brain loses cells in areas that produce important neurotransmitters, as well as experiences a disruption in the communication between these cells. |
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Ginseng (American Ginseng Standardized Extract) |
| Ginseng is a broad term used to include many types of plants in the genus Panax. American Ginseng includes those plants that are grown in North America. Traditionally used in Asia and parts of the former Soviet Union as a folk medicine "cure-all." Helps the body adapt to stress. |
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Glucosamine |
| Glucosamine is an aminopolysaccharide (a combination of an amino acid-glutamine and a sugar- glucose). Glucosamine appears to stimulate the production of molecules that provide strength and elasticity to the joint. |
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Guarana |
| Guarana Seed is a dried paste made from the crushed seeds of Paullinia cupana (also known as P. Sorbilis), a woody vine shrub native to Brazil and the Amazon. Guarana Seed contains high levels of caffeine. |
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Iodine |
| Iodine, best known for keeping the thyroid gland healthy, also helps metabolize fat and aids physical and mental development. Good sources of iodine include: iodized salt and saltwater fish. |
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Iron |
| As blood passes through the tiny air sacs in the lungs, oxygen attaches itself to the iron in the blood and is carried to all parts of the body. In general, premenopausal women need more iron than men do, because menstruation depletes the body of iron. Good sources of iron include: meat, raisins, green leafy vegetables and nuts. |
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IU |
| IU is an abbreviation for international units, a standard unit of measurement for fat soluble vitamins A, D and E. |
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LDL |
| LDL is low-density lipoprotein or "bad" cholesterol. Cholesterol and other fats can't dissolve in the blood. They have to be transported to and from the cells by special carriers called lipoproteins. Too much LDL cholesterol can clog your arteries, increasing your risk of heart attack and stroke. |
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Lutein |
Lutein and Zeaxanthin are carotenoids found in highest concentration in the macular region of the eyes (the back of the eye where the retina is located).
Like other carotenoids, Lutein and Zeaxanthin act as antioxidants, protecting cells against the damaging effects of free radicals. They also act as filters against the oxidizing ultraviolet light of the sun in light-sensitive tissues, such as the macula, lens, and retina. Food sources of Lutein and Zeaxanthin include corn, egg yolk, green vegetables, such as broccoli, green peas, brussel sprouts, cabbage, kale, collard greens, spinach, lettuce, and fruits, including kiwi and honeydew melon. Lutein and Zeaxanthin have identical chemical formulas and are isomers. |
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Lycopene |
| Lycopene is an antioxidant found in nature in fruits and vegetables. |
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Magnesium |
| Magnesium is necessary for glucose metabolism, the synthesis of proteins and nucleic acids, muscle contraction, transmission of nerve impulses and the delicate electrical balance of cells. Good sources of magnesium include: legumes, nuts, whole grains and green vegetables. |
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Manganese |
| Manganese helps to metabolize protein and fat. It maintains the health of the immune and nervous systems. It is important for bone growth and reproduction. Manganese makes it possible for the body to use thiamin and vitamin E. Good sources of manganese include: whole-grain products, along with some fruits and vegetables. |
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Mineral |
| In nutrition, an inorganic substance originating in the earth that may be required to maintain health. |
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Molybdenum |
| Molybdenum is important for normal cell function. It enables the body to use nitrogen and is important for enzymes needed in metabolism. Molybdenum helps regulate iron stores in the body. Good sources of molybdenum include: milk, legumes, breads and grain products |
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Niacin |
| Another name for vitamin B3, niacin is found in every cell of the body and is necessary for energy production. It is also needed for DNA formation and to maintain normal function of skin, nerves and the digestive system. Good sources of niacin include: poultry, fish, beef, peanut butter and legumes. |
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Nickel |
| Nickel is a mineral present in the diet. Sources of nickel include: nuts, beans, peas, grain, and chocolate. |
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Nutrient |
| A chemical compound (such as protein, fat, carbohydrate, a vitamin, or mineral) that is found in food. Nutrients are used by the body to function and maintain health. |
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Omega-3 fatty acid |
| Omega-3 fatty acid (DHA) is an essential polyunsaturated fatty acid, which plays an important role as a structural membrane lipid. It is found in abundance in most oily/fatty fish, such as salmon, sardines, mackerel, and tuna. DHA is a vital component in the brain. |
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Pantothenic Acid |
| Pantothenic acid is essential for the metabolism of fat and sugar within the body. Good sources of pantothenic acid include: meat, poultry, fish, whole-grain cereals and legumes. |
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Phosphorus |
| Phosphorus teams with calcium to aid in cell growth, bone and tooth formation, kidney function and the contraction of the heart. Good sources of phosphorus include: milk, meat, poultry, fish, eggs, legumes and nuts. |
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Phytosterols |
| Phytosterols, also known as plant sterols, are naturally occurring compounds found in all plants and are chemically related to cholesterol, which is found in animal tissue. More than 40 phytosterols have been identified, but sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol are the most abundant. These three compounds comprise up to 98% of the total phytosterols. Vegetable oils are the richest source of phytosterols. |
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Policosanol |
| Policosanol is a composite of a group of higher aliphatic primary alcohols isolated from sugar cane wax. |
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Pomegranate |
| The pomegranate fruit (Punica granatum L) contains polyphenolic flavonoids, including anthocyanins, catechins, ellagic tannins, and fallic and ellagic acids that exhibit antioxidant activity. Phenolic compounds are known to scavenge or neutralize the oxidant effect of free radicals. |
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Potassium |
| Potassium is essential for making all muscles (including the heart) function properly. It is vital for the transmission of nerve impulses, digestion, and the release of insulin. It serves as an electrolyte that helps to maintain the fluid level inside and outside cells. Good sources of potassium include: fruits, many vegetables, fresh meat, poultry and fish. |
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Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) |
| RDAs are published by the Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine, part of the National Academy of Science, which establishes goals rather than requirements for healthy persons. Different guidelines are established for 16 different age and gender groups. |
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Riboflavin |
| Another name for vitamin B2, riboflavin is found in every cell of the body and is necessary for energy production. It is also needed to maintain metabolism and the function of skin and nerves. Good sources of riboflavin include: milk and other dairy products, enriched bread and other grain products, eggs, meat, green leafy vegetables and nuts. |
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Selenium |
| Selenium is a trace mineral that, working in combination with vitamin E, protects the cells from damage from oxygen radicals. Good sources of selenium include: seafood, liver and kidney, as well as other meats. |
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Silicon |
| Silicon is required in the body for proper integrity of the skin, ligaments, tendons, and bones. Aging and low estrogen status may decrease a person's ability to absorb silicon. Sources of silicon include: unrefined grains of high fiber content, such as oatmeal and brown rice, root vegetables, and cereal products. |
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Soy Isoflavone |
| Soy extract typically contains soy isoflavones. It helps support comfort and well-being for women of menopausal age. |
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Thiamin |
| Also known as vitamin B1, thiamin participates in the body's ability to use protein and carbohydrates to produce energy. It also aids in metabolism, especially of carbohydrates. It is important for normal functioning of the nervous system. Good sources of thiamin include: whole-grain and enriched grain products, such as beans, rice, pasta and fortified cereals. |
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Vanadium |
| Vanadium is a trace mineral present in nature. Source of vanadium include shellfish, parsley, mushrooms, dill seed, and wine. |
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Vitamin |
| A nutrient that the body needs in small amounts to function and maintain health. Examples are Vitamins A, C, and E. |
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Vitamin A |
| Vitamin A is important for the growth and development of bones, teeth and gums. It is also essential for night vision, healthy skin, hair and mucous membranes. Good sources of vitamin A include: liver, fish, oil, eggs, and vitamin A-fortified foods. |
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B Vitamin or Vitamin B Complex |
| The term "B complex" refers to the mixture or combination of 8 B vitamins: Thiamin (B1), Riboflavin (B2), Niacin (B3), Pyridoxine (B6), Pantothenic Acid (B5), Folic Acid (B8), Cyanocobalamin (B12) and Biotin. Most of the B vitamins play a critical role as cofactors in cellular energy metabolism. Cofactors can be thought of as "helper nutrients" that assist chemical reactions. For example, the process of glycogenolysis, which converts energy stored as glycogen into glucose molecules, requires vitamin B6 and Thiamin. |
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Vitamin B6 |
| Vitamin B6 influences many body functions including regulating blood glucose levels, manufacturing hemoglobin and aiding the utilization of protein, carbohydrates and fats. It also aids in the function of the nervous system. Good sources of vitamin B6 include: chicken, fish, pork, liver and kidney. It may also be found in whole grains, nuts and legumes. |
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Vitamin B12 |
| Vitamin B12 is essential for normal growth, healthy nerve tissue and blood formation. It is also a crucial element in the reproduction of every cell of the body. Good sources of vitamin B12 include: meat, fish, poultry, eggs, milk and other dairy foods. |
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Vitamin C |
| Vitamin C serves as an antioxidant and plays a role in collagen formation, neurotransmission and tissue repair. Good sources of vitamin C include: oranges, grapefruits and tangerines, many other fruits and vegetables, including berries, melons, peppers, dark green leafy vegetables, potatoes and tomatoes. |
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Vitamin D |
| Vitamin D helps the body properly utilize calcium and phosphorus necessary to build strong bones and teeth. Good sources of vitamin D include: fortified milk, cheese, eggs and fish (sardines and salmon). |
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Vitamin E |
| Vitamin E is an antioxidant that can prevent a chemical reaction called oxidation, which can sometimes result in harmful effects in your body. It is also important for the proper function of nerves and muscles. Good sources of vitamin E include: vegetable oils, such as soybean, corn, cottonseed, and safflower, as well as nuts, seeds and wheat germ. |
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Vitamin K |
| Vitamin K helps the blood clot when the body is injured and is important in bone metabolism. Good sources of vitamin K include: green leafy vegetables, such as spinach and broccoli. |
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Zeaxanthin |
Lutein and Zeaxanthin are carotenoids found in highest concentration in the macular region of the eyes (the back of the eye where the retina is located).
Like other carotenoids, Lutein and Zeaxanthin act as antioxidants, protecting cells against the damaging effects of free radicals. They also act as filters against the oxidizing ultraviolet light of the sun in light-sensitive tissues, such as the macula, lens, and retina. Food sources of Lutein and Zeaxanthin include corn, egg yolk, green vegetables, such as broccoli, green peas, brussel sprouts, cabbage, kale, collard greens, spinach, lettuce, and fruits, including kiwi and honeydew melon. Zeaxanthin is the principal pigment in yellow corn. Lutein and Zeaxanthin have identical chemical formulas and are isomers. |
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Zinc |
| Zinc is necessary for cell growth, reproduction and repair. It helps regulate the body's immune response and insulin metabolism, and aids in the healing of wounds. Good sources of zinc include: meat, seafood and liver. |
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