Ubiquinol

What is it?

Ubiquinol, an electron-rich (reduced) form of Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone), is the ultimate energy boosting supplement. It's the active antioxidant form of CoQ10 ready for immediate use by the body.  It is required for 95% of the body's cells energy production so it boosts every cell in the body making the most of the energy provided by the food you eat. But by taking this supplement is increasing level of energy that the most of body can boost.

It is well-established that CoQ10 is not well absorbed into the body. However, some authorities dispute whether ubiquinol is more bio-available in practice compared to CoQ10 supplements.

Ubiquinol has its CoQ10 molecules dissolved in lipid micelles, which then deliver their cargo to the plasma membrane in the intestinal wall. There they dissolve via simple diffusion into the intestinal cells, then onto the lymphatic vessels, then into the venous system. Since Ubiquinol and CoQ10 are redox pairs and are rapidly inter-converted in the body, it's not clear that Ubiqinol's more hydrophilic nature compared to CoQ10 is of practical significance.

In foods, there are varying amounts of Ubiquinol. An analysis of a range of foods (in the Japanese diet) found it to be present in 66 out of 70 items and accounted for 46% of the total Coenzyme Q10 intake . The following chart is a sample of the results.

Food	Ubiquinol (μg/g)	Coenzyme Q10(μg/g)
Beef (shoulder)	5.36	25
Beef (liver)	40.1	0.4
Pork (shoulder)	25.4	19.6
Pork (thigh)	2.63	11.2
Chicken (breast)	13.8	3.24
Mackerel	0.52	10.1
Tuna (canned)	14.6	0.29
Yellowtail	20.9	12.5
Broccoli	3.83	3.17
Parsley	5.91	1.57
Orange	0.88	0.14

                         

       Ubiquinol May Help Slow Aging & Fight Chronic Disease

Ubiquinol isn't just for those taking statins. Against diseases such as Huntington's and Parkinson's in particular, Ubiquinol has been found to slow progression of the disease. Research over the years has looked into its benefits for diseases such as:

Alzheimer's disease	Huntington's disease	Periodontal disease
Parkinson's disease	ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, often referred to as Lou Gehrig's Disease)	Renal disease

More than 30 million Americans are now taking statin cholesterol-lowering drugs, but the majority are completely unaware that if you take statin drugs without taking CoQ10 (and particularly its reduced form, Ubiquinol), your health is at serious risk.
Statins lower your CoQ10 levels by blocking the pathway involved in cholesterol production - the same pathway by which Q10 is produced. Statins also reduce the blood cholesterol that transports CoQ10 and other fat-soluble antioxidants.
The loss of CoQ10 leads to loss of cell energy and increased free radicals which, in turn, can further damage your mitochondrial DNA, effectively setting into motion an evil circle of increasing free radicals and mitochondrial damage.
Despite all this overwhelming evidence and research, there are no official FDA-required warnings regarding CoQ10 depletion from taking statin drugs, and nearly all physicians fail to inform you about this problem if you are taking statins.
As your body gets more and more depleted of CoQ10, you may suffer from fatigue, muscle weakness and soreness, and eventually heart failure. So if you’re taking statin drugs, it’s imperative that you take CoQ10 or preferably, Ubiquinol, the reduced, electron-rich form of coenzyme Q10. 

Telomeres are an essential part of human cells that affect how our cells age.

Telomere (tel-uh-meer) from the Greek telos (end) and meros (part)

Telomeres are the caps at the end of each strand of DNA that protect our chromosomes, like the plastic tips at the end of shoelaces.  Without the coating, shoelaces become frayed until they can no longer do their job, just as without telomeres, DNA strands become damaged and our cells can’t do their job.

Without the protection from telomeres, our cells age and die.  Telomere shortening is involved in all aspects of the aging process on a cellular level. Telomere length represents our biological age as opposed to our chronological age.

Telomeres & Coenzyme-Q10
CoQ10 is the compound that gives your mitochondria the power to energize every cell in your body.
This is crucial to the aging process, because when your cells and telomeres are starved of energy, they age faster.
CoQ10 is essential for people who:
- Are concerned about the pumping power of your heart…
- Want to support your brain and ensure a continuous supply of energy…
- Are having those “senior moments”…
- Want to support a strong immune system…
- Know you don’t have the energy you used to and need an extra boost to keep going…

Telomeres & Ubiquinol
Ubiquinol is eight times more powerful than ubiquinone (CoQ10), so you only need one-eighth as much.

SUMMARY

CoQ10, or co-enzyme Q10, is a vitamin-like substance present in nearly every cell, tissue and organ of our body. "CoQ10 is an important factor in the generation of energy and is found in high concentrations in tissues such as the liver and muscle,” explains Professor Gordon Ferns at the University of Keele.
It can also be found in different food groups. Meat and fish are the richest source of CoQ10, although cooking by frying can considerably reduce its effectiveness. Vegetable oil is also fairly rich in CoQ10.

Two forms of CoQ10        

The two best known forms of CoQ10 are: ubiquinone and Ubiquinol.
Ubiquinone: Up to 90% of CoQ10 in the blood is in this form. Although our body naturally produces this form of CoQ10, it needs to convert it into a usable form to help provide antioxidant protection and generate energy. This usable form is known as Ubiquinol.
Ubiquinol: The usable, antioxidant version of CoQ10. In this form, CoQ10 could help fight free radicals which could damage our cells and affect our health. The antioxidant action of Ubiquinol is considered to be one of the most important functions in cellular systems

As we get older we convert ubiquinone into usable Ubiquinol less efficiently. Plus, a lack of CoQ10 in the body can lead to chronic fatigue and muscle pains.

Ubiquinone has been available in supplement form for a long time; however, it still requires the body to convert it into Ubiquinol. Recent developments have resulted in Ubiquinol, now also being available as a supplement. In this form, the body doesn’t need to convert it and as such, it can be absorbed and used by the body immediately.

References: Judy Willeam, Kubo, Hiroshi; Fujii, Kenji; Kawabe, Taizo; Matsumoto, Shuka; Kishida, Hideyuki; Hosoe, Kazunori (2008). Dr.Marcola, Professor Gordon Ferns.

Sesamin

What is Sesamin?

It’s been known to ancient civilizations for centuries. There are a high number of necessary nutrients which support various parts of the human body, including but not limited to the heart, kidneys, skin, mind, blood, and joints.

These tiny seeds provide a multitude of nutritional goodies that our bodies use to feed cells and keep us healthy. The most common are white and black (although yellow and red exist as well) and knowledge of their healing properties is relatively new.

White sesame seeds have higher iron content than the black ones and are mostly used as ingredients in food or in the form of oil.

Black sesame seeds are more flavourful and have a stronger aroma than white or brown sesame seeds and are preferably used in medicines. They contain 60% more calcium than the white ones.

The Sesame plant is a flowering plant belonging to the Pedaliaceae family. These seeds have the highest oil content among all seeds and a delicate, nutty flavour that becomes more pronounced when they are roasted under low temperature for a few minutes.

Sesamin is a lignan isolated from the bark of fagara plants and from sesame oil. It has been used as a dietary fat-reduction supplement, although no controlled studies on this application have been performed. Its major metabolite is enterolactone, which has an elimination half life of less than 6 hours. Sesamin and sesamolin are minor components of sesame oil, on average comprising only 0.14% of the oil by mass.

Rich In Beneficial Minerals

Sesame seeds are an excellent source of copper, a very good source of manganese, and a good source of magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, molybdenum, and selenium. This rich assortment of minerals translates into the following health benefits:

Copper Provides Relief for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Copper is known for its use in reducing some of the pain and swelling of rheumatoid arthritis. Copper's effectiveness is due to the fact that this trace mineral is important in a number of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant enzyme systems. In addition, copper plays an important role in the activity of lysyl oxidase, an enzyme needed for the cross-linking of collagen and elastin—the ground substances that provide structure, strength and elasticity in blood vessels, bones and joints.

Magnesium Supports Vascular and Respiratory Health

Studies have supported magnesium's usefulness in:

• Preventing airway spasms in asthma
• Lowering high blood pressure, a contributing factor in heart attack, stroke, and diabetic heart disease
• Preventing the trigeminal blood vessel spasm that triggers migraine attacks
• Restoring normal sleep patterns in women who are experiencing unpleasant symptoms associated with menopause

Calcium Helps Prevent Colon Cancer, Osteoporosis, Migraine and PMS

In recent studies, calcium has been shown to:

• Help protect colon cells from cancer-causing chemicals
• Help prevent the bone loss that can occur as a result of menopause or certain conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis
• Help prevent migraine headaches in those who suffer from them
• Reduce PMS symptoms during the luteal phase (the second half) of the menstrual cycle

There is a little bit of controversy about sesame seeds and calcium, because there is a substantial difference between the calcium content of hulled (seeds with the hulls removed, called kernels) versus whole sesame seeds. When the hulls remain on the seeds, one tablespoon of sesame seeds will contains about 88 milligrams of calcium. When the hulls are removed, this same tablespoon will contain about 37 milligrams (about 60% less). Tahini—a spreadable paste made from ground sesame seeds—is usually made from hulled seeds and so will usually contain lower amounts of calcium.

The term "sesame butter" can sometimes refer to tahini made from sesame seed kernels, or it can also be used to mean a seed paste made from whole sesame seeds—hull included. Although the seed hulls provide an additional 51 milligrams of calcium per tablespoon of seeds, the calcium found in the hulls appears in large part to be found in the form of calcium oxalate. This form of calcium is different than the form found in the kernels and is a less absorbable. So even though a person would be likely to ingest more calcium from sesame seeds or sesame seed butter that contained the hulls, there is a question about how much more calcium would be absorbed. It would definitely be less than the 51 additional milligrams found in the seed hulls. And there would also, of course, be a question about the place of hull-containing sesame seeds on an oxalate-restricted diet.

Zinc for Bone Health

Another reason for older men to make zinc-rich foods such as sesame seeds a regular part of their healthy way of eating is bone mineral density. Although osteoporosis is often thought to be a disease for which postmenopausal women are at highest risk, it is also a potential problem for older men. Almost 30% of hip fractures occur in men, and 1 in 8 men over age 50 will have an osteoporotic fracture. A study of 396 men ranging in age from 45-92 that was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found a clear correlation between low dietary intake of zinc, low blood levels of the trace mineral, and osteoporosis at the hip and spine.

Phytosterols in Sesame Seeds Lower Cholesterol

Phytosterols are compounds found in plants that have a chemical structure very similar to cholesterol, and when present in the diet in sufficient amounts, are believed to reduce blood levels of cholesterol, enhance the immune response and decrease risk of certain cancers.
Sesame seeds had the highest total phytosterol content (400-413 mg per 100 grams), and English walnuts and Brazil nuts the lowest (113 mg/100grams and 95 mg/100 grams). (100 grams is equivalent to 3.5 ounces.) Of the nuts and seeds typically consumed as snack foods, pistachios and sunflower seeds were richest in phytosterols (270-289 mg/100 g), followed by pumpkin seeds (265 mg/100 g).

Tryptophan for serotonin production, nerve conductivity, and sleep regulation

Iron for haemoglobin production, immune health, and red blood cell oxygenation

Sesame seeds were one of the first crops processed for oil as well as one of the earliest condiments. The addition of sesame seeds to baked goods can be traced back to ancient Egyptian times from an ancient tomb painting that depicts a baker adding the seeds to bread dough. Sesame seeds were brought to the United States from Africa during the late 17th century. Currently, the largest commercial producers of sesame seeds include India, China and Mexico.

Sesame Seeds, dried 0.25 cup 36.00 grams Calories: 206 GI: very low
Nutrient	Amount	DRI/DV (%)	Nutrient Density	World's Healthiest Foods Rating
copper	1.47 mg	163	14.3	excellent
manganese	0.89 mg	45	3.9	very good
calcium	351.00 mg	35	3.1	good
phosphorus	226.44 mg	32	2.8	good
magnesium	126.36 mg	32	2.8	good
iron	5.24 mg	29	2.5	good
zinc	2.79 mg	25	2.2	good
molybdenum	10.62 mcg	24	2.1	good
vitamin B1	0.28 mg	23	2.0	good
selenium	12.38 mcg	23	2.0	good
fibre	4.25 g	17	1.5	good

Summary of Sesame seeds

The important nutrients contained in sesame seeds and some of their health benefits include:

1. High Protein Vegetarian Diet:

Sesame seeds are a good source of dietary protein, with high quality amino acids making up 20% of the seed. Thus, they are perfect to form part of a high-protein vegetarian diet. Just sprinkle them over your salads, soups and noodles.

2. Prevents Diabetes:

Sesame seeds contain magnesium and other nutrients that have been shown to combat diabetes. The usage of sesame seed oil as the sole edible oil has been found to be effective in lowering the blood pressure and plasma glucose in hypersensitive diabetics.

3. Cures Anaemia:

Sesame seeds, particularly the black ones, are rich in iron. Hence, they are highly recommended for those suffering from anaemia and weakness.

4. Cardiovascular Health:

• Sesame seed oil prevents atherosclerotic lesions and hence, is beneficial for the heart health.

• They contain an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound called sesamol that also exhibits anti-atherogenic properties, thus improving the cardiovascular health.

• Sesame seeds are high in the monounsaturated fatty acid, oleic acid, which helps in lowering the bad cholesterol and increasing the good cholesterol in the body. This prevents the risk of coronary artery disease and strokes .

5. Anti-cancer Properties:

Sesame seeds contain magnesium which has anti-cancer properties. They also contain an anti-cancer compound called phytate. Sesame seeds have proven to be effective in reducing the risk of colorectal tumours, thus preventing colorectal cancer.

6. Digestive Health:

Sesame seeds support a healthy digestive system and colon as they are rich in fibre. This high fibre content helps in smooth functioning of the intestine, thus facilitating waste disposal and relieving constipation.

7. Relief From Rheumatoid Arthritis:

Sesame seeds contain copper, a mineral that is vital for antioxidant enzyme systems, thus reducing the pain and swelling associated with arthritis. Besides, this mineral provides strength to the blood vessels, bones and joints

8. Respiratory Health:

Magnesium contained in sesame seeds prevents asthma and other respiratory disorders by preventing airway spasms.

9. Protection From Radiation Damage:

Sesamol found in sesame seeds and sesame oil has been found to prevent the DNA from being damaged by radiation. It also prevents damage to the intestines and the spleen.

10. Bone Health:

Sesame seeds contain zinc that boosts the bone mineral density and the bone health. The deficiency of this mineral can cause osteoporosis in the hip and spine area. Sesame seeds are a great source of calcium, a trace mineral that is vital to bone health.

References: Kamal-Eldin A, Moazzami A, Washi S,  Nonaka M, Yamashita K, Iizuka Y, et al.
Ogawa H, Sasagawa S, Murakami T, Yoshizumi H. Wood, Rebecca. Hyun T, Barrett-Connor E, Milne D.

Phillips KM, Ruggio DM, Ashraf-Khorassani M.

Collagen

What is it?

Collagen is an important building block for the skin.  It makes up to 30% of the protein of the living body and 70% of the protein that makes up skin.  Collagen ensures the cohesion, elasticity and regeneration of skin.  Skin tissue is composed of various molecules, some of which are amino acids, and these amino acids are essential for maintaining an even skin structure and thus healthy skin. 

The dermis, which provides the foundation for the skin, is closely involved in the skin’s elasticity and flexibility.  Collagen is the main component of the dermis.  Maintaining the amount of collagen is the key to beautiful skin.  Glycine, proline, alanine and hydroxyproline are the main constituents of collagen; replenishing these constituent amino acids appears to be needed to maintain the amount of collagen at healthy levels.





                                                     

Skin changes are among the most visible signs of aging. There has been a considerable increase in understanding how skin ages, along with significant progress toward reducing the visible signs of aging. Evidence of increasing age include fine lines, wrinkles and loss of elasticity such as sagging skin.  Skin changes are related to environmental factors, genetic makeup, nutrition, and other factors. 

With aging, the outer skin layer (epidermis) thins, even though the number of cell layers remains unchanged.  Changes in the connective tissue reduce the skin’s strength and elasticity.  This is known as elastosis.
Collagen, as a food ingredient has a texturizing effect while as a cosmetic ingredient, it has a moisturizing effect on the skin. It is also known to make the skin firmer, treat aging signs such as wrinkles and skin sagging. Collagen is now seen in almost every cosmetics brand from America to Asia. It is available as an eye cream, night cream, serum, facial foam, mask, and filler.

                                        

 

 

 

 

 

Hydrolysed Collagen (also known as Collagen Peptides) is becoming a very popular protein substitute.  It is naturally found in humans & animals and is revolutionising the way people consume and utilise protein.  It is fat-free, cholesterol free and easily digestible in liquid form.  The human body absorbs and utilises liquid collagen more efficiently compared to powder and other forms. 


Hydrolysed collagen is produced from collagen found in the bones, skin, and connective tissue of animals such as cattle, fish, horses, pigs, and rabbits.

The amino acid content of hydrolysed collagen is the same as collagen.
Hydrolysed collagen contains 20 amino acids, predominantly glycine, proline and hydroxyproline, which together represent around 50% of the total amino acid content.

Amino acids	Percentage
Proline/Hydroxyproline	25%
Glycine	20%
Glutamic acid	11%
Arginine	8%
Alanine	8%
Other essential amino acids	16%
Other non-essential amino acids	12%

                                
                             

                

    

 

 

The bioavailability of hydrolysed collagen in mice was demonstrated in a 1999 study; orally administered. C hydrolysed collagen was digested and more than 90% absorbed within 6 hours, with measurable accumulation in cartilage and skin. A 2005 study in humans found hydrolyzed collagen absorbed as small peptides in the blood

 

Ingestion of hydrolysed collagen may affect the skin by increasing the density of collagen fibrils and fibroblasts, thereby stimulating collagen production

 

                                                       

 

 

Some clinical studies report that the oral ingestion of hydrolysed collagen decreases joint pain, those with the most severe symptoms showing the most benefit.

Beneficial action is likely due to hydrolysed collagen accumulation in the cartilage and stimulated production of collagen by the chondrocytes, the cells of cartilage.

Several studies have shown that a daily intake of hydrolysed collagen increases bone mass density. It seems that hydrolysed collagen peptides stimulated differentiation and osteoblasts activity- the cells that build bone- over that of osteoclasts (cells that destroy bone).

 

 

 

 

 

                                                           

 

 

 

 Collagen is a fibrous protein that functions as a building block for skin, tendons, joints, other connective tissues and bones. Collagen also keeps skin, bones, teeth and blood vessels healthy. Taking collagen supplements helps replenish and replace natural collagen, which decreases with age

 

 

 

 

                                                        

 

 

 

 

Reduction of Skin Wrinkles

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), skin wrinkle reduction is one of the possible benefits of taking collagen supplements. As people age, their skin’s natural elasticity lessens because of the decrease in collagen production. When the skin loses its elasticity, wrinkles and fine lines start to appear and skin will seem less firm and look loose.

The AAD notes that collagen supplements is one of several things you can do to improve your skin's elasticity and ability to recover from wounds. Wrinkle reduction and skin repair can also be achieved by using moisturizers, eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep and by stopping smoking.

Collagen is a unique protein and the building material to renew cells in all areas of the body including: the hair, skin, nails, eyes, teeth, cartilage, bones, tendons, organs, arteries, blood vessels, hemoglobin, immune cells and the immune system. Collagen is responsible for eighty percent of all connective tissue and seventy five percent of the skin. Collagen, when hydrolysed into smaller molecules for easier absorption and combined with adequate amounts Vitamin C and certain amino acids, can be assimilated and utilised rendering a younger body.

Collagen production slows down as we age. The Aging process is accelerated after age 30 when we start to lose 1.5% of our natural collagen stores each year. By age 40 when most people start to notice hormonal and body changes, the body has already lost approximately 15% of its natural collagen stores.


              
                                    




Collagen Peptides are a natural bioactive ingredient that improves epidermis moisture content and prevents skin aging.  Several studies have demonstrated that collagen peptides are highly digestible.  If native collagen is very resistant and regarded as indigestible, collagen peptides can be easily attacked by proteolytic enzymes.  More than 90% of collagen peptides are digested and quickly absorbed after oral ingestion.  As a food ingredient, oral ingestion of collagen peptides has been reported as safe.  In order to be active, collagen peptides must have an excellent bioavailability. 

This has been confirmed in animals and human after oral administration wherein 95% was absorbed within the first 12 hours.  These studies show that collagen peptides reached their peak value in cartilage after ingestion of collagen peptides and remained relatively high after 96 hours.
When collagen is digested, the peptides are attracted to cells that synthesize collagen in the human body, fibroblasts, and are the most common cells of connective tissues in the skin. 

Collagen peptides may bring about the production and reorganisation of new collagen fibers by stimulating the fibroblasts cells.  Furthermore, some studies show that collagen peptides increase the density and diameter of collagen fibrils in the dermis and may improve the strength of skin.

Addressing these skin care concerns is a lifelong process.  Good nutrition and adequate fluids are helpful and can dramatically improve the youthful, healthy appearance of skin.  Maintaining the right amount of collagen is the key to beautiful skin.  Collagen is primarily composed of the amino acids glycine, proline, alanine and hydroxyproline.

These amino acids appear to be needed to maintain the amount of collagen at healthy levels and thus reduce the signs of skin aging.



                                           

A growing body of research is showing nutraceuticals can contribute to healthy skin.  While topical creams and cosmetic products can affect skin condition from outside, nutritional supplements taken orally can have an impact from within the skin.  Clinical research has shown that Vital Proteins' Collagen, a natural protein:

• Promotes younger looking skin;
• Improves skin moisture level;
• Improves skin smoothness by reducing the number of micro-relief furrows;
• Improves the signs of deep wrinkles
• Improves skin suppleness.

                                                 

Vitamin C is a vital nutrient required to increase collagen production, while also providing stability and structure to the collagen itself. Amino acids must also be present to take this delicate material from a pro-collagen structure to the actual collagen material. Additional nutrients in large doses such as proline, glycine, lysine, copper and manganese are all required to produce strong collagen fibers and elastin.
Clinical studies verify that a regular intake of collagen, taken daily for up to 12 weeks, improves the basic skin condition and structure. Studies have shown that taking collagen peptides showed a significant improvement in skin elasticity and skin moisture.

Dr. Venessa’s Anti-Aging 3 Collagen, the world’s leading collagen source has used the research of the late Dr. Linus Pauling to create the very best in oral ingestible collagen. The 3.6 grams of hydrolysed Types I, II and III, bovine and chicken sternum collagen is combined with thirteen grams of the amino acids proline, lysine, glycine, copper, manganese and a 1,000 mg of pure buffered vitamin C. Daily consumption on an empty stomach (am or pm) leads to a stronger and more attractive body usually over a period of 2-6 months.




                                                   

Reduction of Joint Pain and Stiffness

Relief from joint pain and stiffness is among the many benefits of taking collagen supplements, as described by the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) . Collagen is responsible for keeping cartilage and joints intact and mobile by maintaining the fibrous and elastic structure of bones and joints. This elasticity enables people to move freely without pain or discomfort. Taking collagen supplements enables the joints to flex and extend properly. It also allows joints to absorb the shock associated with such everyday movements as walking and doing other activities.

Hydrolysed Collagen for Athletes, Muscle growth, and Joint Pain

In the United States, the CDC reported results from a 2010 survey that roughly 30% of adults are experiencing joint pain, back pain, or arthritis. Using hydrolysed collagen is not only a beneficial as an aid to relieve joint and muscle pain, but also is shown to be an effective preventative for such problems.
Branched-chain amino acids, which are contained in hydrolysed collagen, improve the body’s synthesis of protein while also increasing the capacity for protein synthesis. These combined effects result in gains for both muscle mass and generation. Additionally, clinic trials have shown that hydrolysed collagen dietary supplements assist athletes with joint pain and reduce the risk of joint deterioration. A 24-week trial which studied 147 subjects who were provided with either a collagen hydrolysate or a placebo produced significant results in reduced joint pain and improved overall performance.

Collagen supplements are the perfect protein to consume before and after exercise, helping to maintain and restore the protein content of muscle.  Collagen peptides, which consists of 20% glycine and 8% arginine, may help the synthesis of creatine in the body.

Creatine is a nitrogenous organic acid that occurs naturally in vertebrates and helps to supply energy to all cells in the body, primarily muscle. This has been shown to help improve performance during short periods of exercise, thus helping athletes to increase their body mass and reduce body fat percentage.  Creatine is made of three amino-acids, glycine, arginine, and methionine.  Each serving of Vital Protein’s Collagen Peptides contains 3.7g of Glycine, 1.5g of Arginine, and 108mg of methionine.
Several studies highlight the beneficial effect of oral arginine supplements on athletic performances by increasing strength.  Arginine stimulates the release of growth hormone from the pituitary gland, which is known to increase muscle mass, and may explain the performance gain.
For sports nutrition, Vital Proteins’ collagen supplements are the perfect protein to help muscle restoration after exercise, and it may be closely involved in creatine production, aiding athletic performance, due to it glycine and arginine content.

                                         

 

  

Hydrolysed Collagen for Weight Loss

Hydrolysed collagen has been utilised in energy bars because it helps curb your appetite.
While products containing collagen should not be your sole source of nutrition, they can help keep you from snacking between meals, and help burn excess fat when paired with exercise. While there have been no clinical studies to support or deny claims of weight loss from Hydrolysed Collagen alone, many doctors agree that it provides a usable protein that supports the body’s functions and gives you the energy needed to support you throughout the day.

Numerous studies show that dietary protein needs increase for individuals engaged in resistance and aerobic training. Individuals aiming to maximize nitrogen balance would likely benefit from repeated ingestion of moderate amounts of protein (~20g) at regular intervals (~3h) throughout the day.

Those individuals looking to reduce body fat and increase lean body mass through caloric restriction have increased protein needs.  Increased protein intake reduces lean body mass loss during weight loss in athletes.  Protein needs for energy-restricted resistance trained athletes are likely 2.3 - 3.1g / kg of fat free lean body mass.  The 2.3g / kg was significantly superior to 1.0g / kg for maintenance of lean body mass in young healthy athletes. 
For senior athletes, increasing protein intake improves muscle strength and insulin sensitivity.



                                               

 

Faster Wound Healing

According to the NIAMS, one of the benefits of taking collagen supplements is faster wound healing. Skin repair and wound healing after an injury usually happens on its own, but collagen supplements may speed up the process by stimulating tissue formation and wound contraction.

                                                       

 

                                            

                                           

 

Hydrolysed Collagen for Cancer Treatment & Recovery

Cancer is a degenerative disease that takes a toll on your body, causing fatigue and loss of appetite, among other symptoms. Combined with the process of chemotherapy, which is detrimental to both your healthy and cancerous cells, the disease and treatment of cancer is extremely degenerative to muscles and tissues, and can lead to prolonged loss of appetite and fatigue. Doctors, as well as the American Cancer Society, recommend additional supplements of protein to heal tissues and help fight infection.

             


                                           

Collagen Benefits

• Hair Nail and Skin Health
• May decrease arthritis symptoms
• Can boost skin health and help reduce rashes, red patches or age spots

Dr Oz Collagen Anti-Ageing Dosage
Take 2 grams (2000mgs) each morning on an empty stomach

conclusion

Hydrolysed Collagen is high in essential amino acids and is effectively zero allergenic.   It is being used in the medical field to help with recovery from sore joint recovery, anti ageing skin, cancer recovery treatment, and post-surgery treatments.  Collagen is also commonly used as meal replacement for those who want to reduce weight.  It helps maintain blood sugar levels while providing essential Amino Acids, giving an immediate boost of energy.  Hydrolysed collagen is naturally caffeine free.





 References:     Lodish H, Berk A, Zipursky SL, et al. Molecular Cell Biology.   Asghar, A and Henrickson, Iwai, K.Hasegawa, T. Taguchi, Y. Morimatsu, F. Sato, K. Nakamura, Cosgrove, M.C., Franco, O.H., Granger, S.P., Murray, P.G. and Mayes, A.E.   Proksch E, Segger D, Degwert J, Schunck M, Zague V, Oess Oesser, S Adam, M Babel, W Seifert, Barnett ML, Kremer JM, St Clair EW, Clegg DO, Furst D, Weisman M, Fletcher MJ, Chasan-Taber S, Finger E, Morales A, Le CH, Trentham DE, Moskowitz, R. Ruiz-Benito, P. Camacho-Zambrano, M.M. Carrillo-Arcentales, J.N. Mestanza-Peralta, M.A.; Vallejo-Flores, C.A. Vargas-Lopez, S.V. Villacis-Tamayo, R.A. Zurita-Gavilanes, Dr. Venessa, Moore, Daniel R., et al, Helms, Eric R., et al, Mettler, Samuel, Nigel Mitchell, and Kevin D. Tipton, Baglio, V., et al., Hoffman, J. R., et., Appleton, Jeremy.

L-Tyrosine

What is it?

L-Tyrosine is a nonessential amino acid the body makes from another amino acid called phenylalanine. 

Phenylalanine is the starting compound used in flavonoid biosynthesis. Lignan is derived from phenylalanine and from tyrosine.

It is an essential component for the production of several important brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, including epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine.
Neurotransmitters help nerve cells communicate and influence mood. Tyrosine also helps produce melanin, the pigment responsible for hair and skin color. It helps in the function of organs responsible for making and regulating hormones, including the adrenal, thyroid, and pituitary glands.

It is involved in the structure of almost every protein in the body. It's rare to be deficient in tyrosine. Low levels have been associated with low blood pressure, low body temperature, and an underactive thyroid. This does not mean, however, that taking tyrosine supplements will help any of these conditions.





                                           






Phenylketonuria (PKU) This is an inborn error of metabolism involving impaired metabolism of phenylalanine. Phenylketonuria is caused by absent or extremely low phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) enzyme activity.

The role of PAH is to break down excess phenylalanine from food. Phenylalanine is a necessary part of the human diet and is naturally present in all kinds of dietary protein. It is also used to make the sweetener aspartame, known by the trade name Nutrasweet. The enzyme PAH breaks down excess phenylalanine from these sources beyond what is needed by the body.

However, if there is not enough of the PAH enzyme or its cofactor, then phenylalanine can build up in the blood and brain to toxic levels, affecting brain development and function. This can lead to brain damage and intellectual impairment. PKU is rare, but important to identify, because if caught early it is very treatable. It is not contagious but it is lifelong With early diagnosis and consistent treatment, the damaging effects can be minimal or non-existent.

 

People with PKU must avoid any phenylalanine in their diets. Because tyrosine is made from phenylalanine, people with PKU can be deficient in tyrosine.

Protein-rich foods or the sweetener aspartame can act as poisons for people with phenylketonuria. 

Tyrosine is used in protein supplements for people with PKU, but most doctors don't recommend tyrosine supplements. If you have PKU, your doctor will determine if you need more tyrosine and how much.

Stress 
Tyrosine is involved in the production of the stress neurotransmitters epinephrine and norepinephrine. Some researchers believe that, under stress, the body isn't able to make enough tyrosine from phenylalanine. Some animal and human studies suggest that tyrosine supplements may help improve memory and performance under psychological stress. More research is needed.

Sleep deprivation
One study suggests that taking tyrosine may help you be more alert after sleep deprivation.
More research is needed.
Some athletes claim that tyrosine helps their performance. However, there is no proof that this claim is true or safe.
Preliminary research suggests that tyrosine kinase inhibitors may play a role in the treatment of thyroid cancer. Other studies suggest tyrosine kinase inhibitors may help improve lung function among people who have lung cancer or pulminary fibrosis.

Mental health
L-tyrosine appears to have particular benefits for mental health and mental performance, many people choose to take supplements of this amino acid or eat more food containing it, such as meat, seafood, dairy products and whole grains.
Because tyrosine helps the body produce the mood-influencing chemical dopamine, and because people who are depressed often have low levels of tyrosine, researchers thought that tyrosine might help treat depression. Studies have found that it has no effect.


                                
                                                  

                                      

Dietary Sources 
Tyrosine is found in soy products, chicken, turkey, fish, peanuts, almonds, avocados, bananas, milk, cheese, yogurt, cottage cheese, lima beans, pumpkin seeds, and sesame seeds. Amino acids are building blocks of protein. L-tyrosine is a non-essential amino acid, meaning you don't need to obtain it from diet as long as you consume enough L-phenylalanine, which the body converts to tyrosine.
Consult a qualified health care provider before taking acetyl-L-tyrosine supplements.

                                             


Absorption 
Acetyl-L-tyrosine is a type of L-tyrosine supplement that the body converts to tyrosine. It is more rapidly absorbed and has better bioavailability than L-tyrosine supplements, so less of it is lost through urine. In addition, you can take a smaller dose of acetyl-L-tyrosine to obtain the same effects of a larger dose of L-tyrosine.

This is beneficial, because large doses of L-tyrosine can cause irritability, restlessness, anxiety and abnormal heart rhythms, according to physician Ray Sahelian, who specializes in natural supplements. Tyrosine is also available as a dietary supplement, in capsule or tablet form. Take tyrosine supplements at least 30 minutes before meals, divided into 3 daily doses. Taking vitamins B6, B9 (folate), and copper along with tyrosine helps the body convert tyrosine into important brain chemicals. To treat symptoms of sleep deprivation, one study used 150 mg per kilogram of body weight per day



                                            



                  References:University of Maryland Medical Center, DrGreene.com

L-Arginine

What is it?
It helps relieve memory loss in which is one of the most disheartening aspects of ageing.
Arginine is the precursor of spermine and spermidine.

L-Arginine is one of the most metabolically versatile amino acids. In addition to its role in the synthesis of nitric oxide, l-arginine serves as a precursor for the synthesis of polyamines, proline, glutamate, creatine, agmatine and urea. Several human and experimental animal studies have indicated that exogenous l-arginine intake has multiple beneficial pharmacological effects when taken in doses larger than normal dietary consumption. Such effects include reduction in the risk of vascular and heart diseases, reduction in erectile dysfunction, improvement in immune response and inhibition of gastric hyperacidity. This review summarises several positive studies and personal experiences of l-arginine. The demonstrated anti-aging benefits of l-arginine show greater potential than any pharmaceutical or nutraceutical agent ever previously discovered.

L-arginine  is a very important semi-essential amino acid.
That means and can be produced by the body, but is often needed in larger quantities so the body relies on extra supplementation via the diet.
The most important characteristic of Arginine is that it is the only reactant for the molecule NO (nitric oxide), which is a vasodilator. One of the characteristics of NO is to regulate vascular tone, ensuring, so to say, the flexibility of blood vessels and a healthy cardiovascular system.

Arginine can improve the blood flow in the arteries of the heart and improve symptoms of coronary artery disease, chest pain, clogged arteries and angina. Arginine also helps the kidneys remove waste products from the body and maintains immune and hormone function. Some more benefits of Arginine amino acid are as follows.

 

• Good for body building, muscle growth.
• Helpful in the treatment of Cancer or tumours.
• Helpful in exercise and athletic performance.
• Used to increase the level of growth hormones.
• Good for heart disease.
• Help in improvement of heart transplant patients.
• Help in reducing the hypertension and high blood pressure.
• Beneficial for the gestational hypertension and proteinuria
• Improves the hemodynamic responses to stress and reduces plasma homo cysteine.
• Affects the hemodynamic, glucose, insulin, or C-reactive protein.

L-Arginine and sexual function

 

 

 

Arginine is required for normal spermatogenesis. Over 50 years ago, researchers found that feeding an arginine-deficient diet to adult men for 9 days decreased sperm counts by ∼90% and increased the percentage of non-motile sperm approximately 10-fold. Oral administration of 500 mg arginine–HCl per day to infertile men for 6–8 weeks markedly increased sperm counts and motility in a majority of patients, and resulted in successful pregnancies.

There are only very few reports on the improvement of erectile function by l-arginine administration. A study by Chen et al revealed a significant subjective improvement in sexual function in men with organic erectile dysfunction (31% of cases) after oral intake of 5 g l-arginine for 6 weeks, but only if they had decreased NOx excretion or production. Other studies have shown that long-term oral administration of pharmacological doses of l-arginine improves the erectile response in the aging rat as well as in patients with erectile dysfunction and. However, Klotz et al reported in a controlled crossover study that oral l-arginine at 3× 500 mg/day was not better than a placebo as a first line treatment for the mixed type of impotence.

In general, studies in this area are scarce and provide inconsistent results. Further studies, particularly of long-term usage of l-arginine, are needed to distinguish the group of patients that can most benefit from this supplement. The theoretical basis of these studies is furnished by the established crucial role of NO from nerves and possibly endothelia in initiating and maintaining intracavernous pressure increase, penile vasodilatation, and penile erection that are dependent on cyclic GMP synthesised with activation of soluble guanylyl cyclase by NO in smooth muscle cells.

The aphrodisiac properties of l-arginine have not been adequately studied, despite the noticeable presence of l-arginine in most aphrodisiac and sexual stimulation formulas commercially available in the international market.

 

Other effects of l-arginine

Other than the benefits in the above stated conditions, l-arginine has been demonstrated to improve peripheral circulation, renal function, and immune function. It also possesses anti-stress and adaptogenic capabilities. l-Arginine stimulates the release of growth hormone as well as the release of pancreatic insulin and glucagon and pituitary prolactin. The antioxidant property of l-arginine has been well documented in several reports and. An interesting article by Grasemann et al has demonstrated an acute and transient improvement of pulmonary function in cystic fibrosis patients by a single inhalation of l-arginine. Nebulised l-arginine significantly increased exhaled nitric oxide concentrations.

Additional observations at the end of the 4-week study reported by some subjects.

1. Adjustment of blood pressure in mild hypertension.

2. High energy, especially in the morning when waking up.

3. Clear mind.

4. Stamina and resistance to depression and anxiety.

5. Increase in urine output.

6. Improvement of hair and nail growth and hardness.

7. Improvement of skin texture and appearance.

8. Increase in night dreams.

9. Improvement of circulation and temperature of extremities.

10. Reduction of hyperacidity.

11. Overall improvement of GIT system and defecation.

12. Improvement of most vital activities greatly affected in diabetics, including: reduction of neuritis, improvement of glucose metabolism, enhancement of libido and sexual performance and adjustment of body weight.

Arginine is an essential amino acid involves in cell division and protein synthesis, thus must be obtained from the diet. Arginine intake is increased during the periods of growth like in childhood and pregnancy, when body is actively using amino acid for protein synthesis. Although there are many Arginine supplements available on the market, yet the natural ways of obtaining Arginine are the best way. There are many food sources of Arginine amino acid.

 

 

Some of them are as follow.

 

 

 

 

 

a) Nuts: Plant products like nuts are the richest sources of Arginine which contains around 1 to 3 g per 100 g of nuts. Some nuts with their arginine content are as follow.                              

 

Peanuts  - 3.1 g per 100 g

Almonds - 2.5 g per 100 g

Walnuts -  2.3g per 100 g  

Hazelnuts - 2.2 g per 100 g  

Cashews -2.1 g per 100 g 

Pistachios -2.03 g per 100 g 

Brazil nuts -2.15 g per 100 g

Pecans -1.18 g per 100 g                                    
                      

b) Spinach and Lentils: Vegetables are very good sources of protein, particularly they have a concentration of Arginine. Spinach and lentils are most common vegetables rich in Arginine content. Frozen spinach contain 3.3 g of arginine per 100 g and lentils have 2.1 g per 100 g of the raw vegetable. 

Some other vegetable sources of Arginine are as follow.

 

• Flax seed -1.93 g
• Raw kidney beans -1.46 g
• Raw French beans -1.17 g
• Raw green soybeans -1.04 g
• Raw garlic -0.63 g
• Blueberry muffins -0.30 g
• Raw onion -0.10 g

c) Whole Grains: Cereal grains like whole wheat contains the highest content of arginine, around 650 mg per 100 g. Hence breads and pastas made from whole grain are rich in arginine.

 

d) Soya: Soya-based proteins contain a high content of arginine.100 g of tofu contains 600 mg of Arginine and a 200 calorie serving from soy proteins isolate has more than 4 g of Arginine.

 

e) Seafood: Sea food like crustaceans is the best animal-based sources of arginine. A 200-calorie serving of food like crabs, shrimps or lobsters contains 3.6 to 3.8 g of arginine. Tuna and salmon fishes contain maximum amount of arginine 1.7 g per 100 g and 1.2 g per 100 g respectively. Chicken and pork have even greater amount of Arginine compare to sea food.

f) Eggs: The yolk part of eggs is very rich in this amino acid. Around 1.10 g of arginine present in 100 g of raw egg yolk while 0.65 g per 100 g is in raw egg white. Some other food sources with Arginine content are as follows.

 

	Food items	Arginine content (g/100 g edible portion)
1	Seeds, sesame flour, low-fat	7.44
2	Seeds, cottonseed flour, low fat (glandless)	6.73
3	Soy protein isolate, PROTEIN TECHNOLOGIES INTERNATIONAL, SUPRO	6.70
4	Soy protein isolate, potassium type	6.67
5	Soy protein isolate	6.67
6	Seeds, cottonseed meal, partially defatted (glandless)	6.63
7	Gelatines, dry powder, unsweetened	6.62
8	Soy protein isolate, PROTEIN TECHNOLOGIES INTERNATIONAL, ProPlus	6.50
9	Peanut flour, defatted	6.24
10	Seeds, sesame flour, partially defatted	5.98
11	Seeds, cottonseed flour, partially defatted (glandless)	5.53
12	Seeds, pumpkin and squash seed kernels, roasted, with salt added	5.42
13	Seeds, sunflower seed flour, partially defatted	5.70
14	Mollusks, whelk, unspecified, cooked, moist heat	4.94
15	Seeds, watermelon seed kernels, dried	4.90
16	Nuts, butternuts, dried	4.86
17	Snacks, pork skins, plain	4.84
18	Egg, white, dried, powder, glucose reduced	4.81

Therapeutic use of l-arginine supplement

l-Arginine is available commercially in several countries in variable dosage forms and mostly indicated as a nutritional supplement. It is available as capsules, tablets, powder, effervescent granules, injection, infusion, and cream with a very wide range of doses. The indications also are quite inconsistent. Amongst the many indications provided on the commercial forms of l-arginine are: prevention and improvement of ischemic heart disease, improvement of microcirculation, improvement of erectile function, improvement of physical exercise capacity, reduction of high blood pressure, improvement of local tissue blood supply and oxygenation, improvement of creative transport, increase of energy levels, antioxidant, stimulation of dopamine, adrenaline and noradrenaline release, increase of growth hormone production, improvement of wound healing, enhancing immunity, help to reverse atherosclerosis, management of metabolic alkalosis, aphrodisiac, enhancement of sperm mobility and viability, and treatment of interstitial cystitis. l-arginine is also available commercially as a vaginal lubricant and sexual enhancer cream.

 References: L.E. Holt Jr., A.A. Albanese, Bull Osaka Med School,  A. Melman, N. Toda, K. Ayajiki, T. Okamura, R.H. Boger, S.M. Bode Boger, B. Lubec, M. Hayn, E. Kitzmuller, H. Vierhapper, G. Lubec, K.G. Park, P.D. Hayes, P.J. Garlick, H. Sewell, O. Eremin, S.R. Collier, D.P. Casey, J.A. Kanaley, A. Mugge, S. Kienke, R. Brandes, A. Dwenger, et al.