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L-Lysine

Common Name: L-Lysine
Synonyms: Lysine, lysine hydrochloride

Overview:

L-lysine is an essential amino acid (the body can not make lysine so it mut come from the food we eat). Lysine is found in high concentrations in meat, eggs and dairy. Although most vegetables are low in lysine, wheat germ, legumes (dried beans and peas) and brewer’s yeast all contain high amounts of lysine. Lysine concentrated in muscle tissue but plays an important part in many other processes in the body. Some of them are:

  1. helps in the absorption of calcium from the intestines
  2. Promotes bone growth.
  3. It is also important in the formation of collagen
  4. Aiding in the production of hormones, antibodies and enzymes
  5. Aiding in the recovery from surgery or sports injuries. This is because lysine is concentrated in muscle tissue and responsible for its recovery from injury.

Lysine deficiencies are rare. It occurs most often in strict vegetarians and athletes undergoing rigorous training. The symptoms of lysine deficiency are:

  1. The development of kidney stones
  2. Fatigue
  3. Nausea
  4. Dizziness
  5. Loss of appetite
  6. Agitation
  7. Bloodshot eyes
  8. Slow growth
  9. Anemia
  10. Reproductive disorders

Benefits

Research into lysine is beginning to show promising results.

  1. A study by Italian researcher, Dr. A. Isidori at the University of Rome, found that combining 1200mg of lysine and 1200mg of arginine was 20 times more effective than either amino acid alone in stimulating hormone release.

  2. The regular use of lysine supplements may reduce the number and intensity of herpes flare ups. One double blind placebo-controlled study followed 52 patients with herpes flare-ups. The group that received 3000mg of lysine daily for 6 months had 2.4 fewer flare ups than the control group. The lysine group’s flare-ups were also less severe. Another double blind placebo controlled crossover study also found improvement in the frequency and severity of herpes flare-ups. This was at doses of 1250mg of lysine daily. An interesting side note is that doses of 624mg did not have the same effect.

  3. Preliminary research is showing that lysine supplements may improve the absorption of calcium from the intestines. This may prove helpful in the treatment of osteoporosis

Recommended Dosage:

  1. Adults may need up to 30mg per kilogram of body weight
  2. Adults with herpes simples should follow these guidelines:
  3. To treat symptoms 3000-9000mg per day in divided doses
  4. To prevent flare-ups 500-1500mg daily are recommended.

Precautions

  1. Those with the rare genetic disorderhyperlysinemia/hyperlysinuria should not take lysine supplements.
  2. Lysine supplemnts are generally regarded as safe and there have been no reports of toxic effects or overdoses.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a health care provider before using any supplements. The affects of this supplement has not been tested on children and those suffering from liver or kidney disease. It is recommended that in children and people with liver or kidney disease this supplementation not be used.

Web References

  1. http://www.umm.edu/altmed/ConsSupplements/Lysinecs.html
  2. http://healthlibrary.epnet.com/GetContent.aspx?token=e0498803-7f62-4563-8d47-5fe33da65dd4&chunkiid=21791
  3. http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/nmdrugprofiles/nutsupdrugs/lly_0166.shtml

Printed Reference Material

  1. Bruzzese N, Sica G, Iacopino F, et al. Growth inhibition of fibroblasts from nasal polyps and normal skin by lysine acetylsalicylate. Allergy. 1998;53:431–434.
  2. Civitelli R, Villareal DT, Agnusdei D, Nardi P, Avioli LV, Gennari C. Dietary L-lysine and calcium metabolism in humans. Nutrition. 1992;8(6):400-405.
  3. Civitelli R, Villareal DT, Agnusedei D, et al. Dietary L lysine and calcium metabolism in humans. Nutrition. 1992; 8:400 405.
  4. De los Santos AR, Marti MI, Espinosa D, Di Girolamo G, Vinacur JC, Casadei A. Lysine clonixinate vs. paracetamol/codeine in postepisiotomy pain. Acta Physiol Pharmacol Ther Latinoam. 1998;48(1):52–58.
  5. Di Giovanna JJ, Blank H. Failure of lysine in frequently recurrent herpes simplex infection. Treatment and prophylaxis. Arch Dermatol. 1984; 120:48 51.
  6. Di Girolamo G, Zmijanovich R, de los Santos AR, Marti ML, Terragno A. Lysine clonixinate in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea. Acta Physiol Pharmacol Ther Latinoam. 1996;46(4):223-232.
  7. Fini M, Torricelli P, Giavaresi G, Carpi A, Nicolini A, Giardino R. Effect of L-lysine and L-arginine osteoblast cultures from normal and osteopenic rats. Biomed Pharmacother. 2001;55(4):213-220.
  8. Flodin NW. The metabolic roles, pharmacology, and toxicology of lysine. J Am Coll Nutr. 1997;16:7–21.
  9. Flondin NW. The metabolic roles, pharmacology, and toxicology of lysine. J Am Coll Nutr. 1997; 16:721.
  10. Furst P. Dietary L-lysine supplementation: a promising nutritional tool in the prophylaxis and treatment of osteoporosis. Nutrition. 1993;9(1):71-72.
  11. Griffith RS, De Long DC, Nelson JD. Relation of L arginine—lysine antagonism to herpes simplex growth in tissue culture. Chemotherapy. 1981; 27:209213.
  12. Griffith RS, Walsh DE, Myrmel KH, et al. Success of L lysine therapy in frequently recurrent herpes simplex infection. Treatment and prophylaxis. Dermatologica. 1987; 175:183190.
  13. Griffith RS, Walsh DE, Myrmel KH, Thmpson RW, Behforooz A. Success of L-lysine therapy in frequently recurrent herpes simplex infection. Treatment and prophylaxis. Dermatologica. 1987;175(4):183-190.
  14. Hugues FC, Lacoste JP, Danchot J, Joire JE. Repeated doses of combined oral lysine acetylsalicylate and metoclopramide in the acute treatment of migraine. Headache. 1997;37:452–454.
  15. Krymchantowski AV, Barbosa JS, Cheim C, Alves LA. Oral lysine clonixinate in the acute treatment of migraine: a double-blind placebo-controlled study. Arq Neuropsiquiatr. 2001;59(1):46-49.
  16. Lo JC, Chertow GM, Rennke H, Seifter JL. Fanconi's syndrome and tubulointestinal nephritis in association with L- lysine ingestion. Am J Kidney Dis. 1996; 28:614 617.
  17. McCune MA, Perry HO, Muller SA, O'Fallon WM. Treatment of recurrent herpes simplex infections with L- lysine monohydrochloride. Cutis. 1984; 34:366 373.
  18. Pizzorno JE, Murray MT. Textbook of Natural Medicine. Vol 1. 2nd ed. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone; 1999.
  19. Rajamohan T, Kurup PA. Lysine: arginine ratio of a protein influences cholesterol metabolism: Part 1—studies on sesame protein having low lysine: arginine ratio. Indian J Exp Biol. 1997; 35:12181223.
  20. Schmeisser DD, Kummerow FA, Baker DH. Effect of excess dietary lysine on plasma lipids of the chick. J Nutr. 1983;113(9):1777-1783.
  21. Shils ME, Olson JA, Shike M, Ross AC. Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease. 9th ed. Baltimore, Md: Williams & Wilkins; 1999:41;1,010.
  22. Tfelf-Hansen P. The effectiveness of combined oral lysine acetylsalicylate and metoclopramide in the treatment of migraine attacks. Comparison with placebo and oral sumatriptan. Funct Neurol. 2000;15(Suppl 3):196-201.
  23. Thein DJ, Hurt WC. Lysine as a prophylactic agent in the treatment of recurrent herpes simplex labialis. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol. 1984; 58:659666.
  24. Werbach MR. Nutritional Influences on Illness. 2nd ed. Tarzana, Calif: Third Line Press; 1993:159–160, 384, 434, 494–495, 506, 580, 613–614, 636.

L-Glutamine

Common Name: L- Glutamine
Synonyms: Glutamine

Overview:

L-glutamine is one of the amino acids found in the double helix of the DNA molecule. It is considered a semi-essential amino acid. Under normal conditions, the body can make enough L-glutamine to meet its needs. In times of great metabolic stress, steroidal hormones such as cortisol are released into the blood stream. This elevation in cortisol levels depletes the body’s store of L-glutamine. The body’s need for glutamine outstrips its ability to produce it. L-glutamine then becomes an essential amino acid and glutamine supplementation is essential to restoring the damage caused by injury, surgery, infections and conditions that produce prolonged periods of physical stress such as athletic training.

L-glutamine is involved in many reactions in the body. It helps maintain the acid-base balance. It also helps protect the body against ammonia toxicity by transporting it from the peripheral tissue to the kidneys by the kidneys or turned into urea in the liver. This semi-essential amino acid is also responsible for nitrogen transport within the body.

Benefits

L-glutamine has been extensively researched and:

  1. Studies conducted by Tomas Welbourne at Louisiana State University College of Medicine showed that even small amounts of L-glutamine caused a quadruple increase in the HGH levels when compared to the placebo group. It was also found that this response of HGH to L-glutamine did not diminish with age. The volunteers in this study ranged from 32 to 64 years of age.
  2. Shown to significantly strengthen the immune system. It has been shown to be an effective adjunct in reducing infections in multiple trauma patients and critically ill patients. A deficiency of this amino acid can significantly slow the nealing process. Glutamine supplements have been shown to reduce the infection rate following surgery and may aid in the recovery from severe burns
  3. Found to be important in the health of the gastro- intestinal mucosa. Because L-glutamine helps to protect the lining of the digestive tract, it has been speculated that a glutamine deficiency may be at the root of developing IBD (inflammatory bowel disease). Preliminary research has suggested that L-glutamine
  4. supplementation may improve the health of the intestinal mucosa damaged in this syndrome. It promotes healing of the cells that line the intestines and improves the diarrhea that is associated with this syndrome
  5. Supplementation with glutamine along with vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, selenium and N-acetylcysteine has been shown to help prevent the severe loss of muscle mass associated with advanced HIV.
  6. Animal studies have shown that L-glutamine may help as an appetite suppressant.
  7. That athelets who over stress their muscles are more prone to infections and slow recovery time without adequate L-glutamine intake. This is because most of the body’s glutamine is stored in muscle tissue. In adequate glutamine levels are associated with lower immune status and longer recovery time.
  8. Supplementation with L-glutamine has proven to be extrememely beneficial in treating the malnourishment that accompanies chemotherapy and radiation treatments.

Recommended Dosage:

L-glutamine should be taken with cold or room temperature food or liquids as heat will destroy this amino acid.

Children who need supplementation with L-glutamine should do so only under the supervision of a qualified health care provider.

Adult dosage ranges from 500-1,000mg per day. Doses has high as 5,000 to 15,000mg may be prescribed by a health care provider.

Precautions

Although L-glutamine is generally regarded as safe:

  1. People with kidney disease, liver disease, or Reye's syndrome (a rare, sometimes fatal disease of childhood that is generally associated with use of aspirin in conjunction with chicken pox or an upper respiratory illness) should not take glutamine.
  2. Those with decreased kidney function should reduce the amount of glutamine supplements taken.
  3. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a health care provider before using any supplements.

Interactions

Glutamine may increase the effectiveness and reduce the side effects of chemotherapy treatments with doxorubicin, methotrexate, and 5-fluorouracil in people with colon cancer. Similarly, preliminary studies suggest that glutamine supplements may prevent nerve damage associated with a medication called paclitaxel, used for breast and other types of cancers.

Printed Reference Material

  1. Abcouwer SF, Souba WW. Glutamine and arginine. In: Shils, ME, Olson JA, Shike M, Ross AC, eds. Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease. 9th ed. Baltimore, MD: Williams & Wilkins; 1999:559-569.
  2. Abcouwer SF. The effects of glutamine on immune cells [editorial]. Nutrition. 2000;16(1):67-69.
  3. Akobeng AK, Miller V, Stanton J, Elbadri AM, Thomas AG. Double-blind randomized controlled trial of glutamine-enriched polymeric diet in the treatment of active Crohn's disease. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 2000;30(1):78-84.
  4. Alexander JW, Ogle CK, Nelson JL. Diets and infection: composition and consequences. World J Surg. 1998;22(2):209-212.
  5. Amores-Sanchez MI, Medina MA. Glutamine, as a precursor of glutathione, and oxidative stress. Mol Genet Metab. 1999;67(2):100-105.
  6. Antoon AY, Donovan DK. Burn Injuries. In: Behrman RE, Kliegman RM, Jenson HB, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. Philadelphia, Pa: W.B. Saunders Company; 2000:287-294.
  7. Bellows CF, Jaffe BM. Glutamine is essential for nitric oxide synthesis by murine macrophages. J Surg Res. 1999;86(2):213-219.
  8. Berger M, Spertini F, Shenkin A, et al. Trace element supplementation modulates pulmonary infection rates after major burns: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Am J Clin Nutr. 1998;68:365-371.
  9. Bozzetti F, Biganzoli L, Gavazzi C, et al. Glutamine supplementation in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy: a double-blind randomized study. Nutrition. 1997;13:748-751.
  10. Buchman AL. Glutamine: commercially essential or conditionally essential? A critical appraisal of the human data. Am J Clin Nutr. 2001;74(1):25-32.
  11. Cao Y, Kennedy R, Klimberg VS. Glutamine protects against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. J Surg Res. 1999;85:178-182.
  12. Castell LM, Newsholme EA. The effects of oral glutamine supplementation on athletes after prolonged, exhaustive exercise. Nutrition. 1997;13:738–742.
  13. Charland SL, Bartlett DL, Torosian MH. A significant methotrexate-glutamine pharmacokinetic interaction. Nutr. 1995;11:154-158.
  14. Clark RH, Feleke G, Din M, et al. Nutritional treatment for acquired immunodeficiency virus-associated wasting using beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate, glutamine, and arginine: a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study. JPEN: J Parenter Enteral Nutr. 2000;24(3):133-139.
  15. Daniele B, Perrone F, Gallo C, et al. Oral glutamine in the prevention of fluorourcil induced intestinal toxicity: a double blind, placebo controlled, randomized trial. Gut. 2001;48:28-33.
  16. Decker GM. Glutamine: indicated in cancer care? Clin J Oncol Nurs. 2002;6(2):112-115.
  17. Decker-Baumann C, Buhl K. Reduction of chemotherapy-induced side-effects by parenteral glutamine supplementation in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. Eur J Cancer. 1999;35:202-207.
  18. Den Hond E. Hiele M, Peeters M, Ghoos Y, Rutgeerts P. Effect of long-term oral glutamine supplements on small intestinal permeability in patients with Crohn's disease. JPEN: J Parenter Enteral Nutr. 1999;23:7–11.
  19. De-Souza DA, Greene LJ. Pharmacological nutrition after burn injury. J Nutr. 1998;128:797-803.
  20. Dieleman LA, Heizer WD. Nutritional issues in inflammatory bowel disease. Gastroenterol Clin North Am.1998;27(2):435-451.
  21. Duffy MM, Regan MC, Ravichandran P, et al. Mucosal metabolism in ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Dis Colon Rectum. 1998;41(11):1399-1405.
  22. Erickson R, Ross D, Medina J. Effects of glutamine on head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 1999;121(4):348-354.
  23. Field CJ, Johnson IR, Schley PD. Nutrients and their role in host resistance to infection. J Leukoc Biol. 2002 Jan;71(1):16-32.
  24. Fujita T, Sakurai K. Efficacy of glutamine-enriched enteral nutrition in an experimental model of mucosal ulcerative colitis. Br J Surg. 1995;82(6):749-751.
  25. Furukawa S, Saito H, Fukatsu K, et al. Glutamine-enhanced bacterial killing by neutrophils from postoperative patients. Nutrition. 1997;13(10):863-869.
  26. Furukawa S, Saito H, Inaba T, et al. Glutamine-enriched enteral diet enhances bacterial clearance in protracted bacterial peritonitis, regardless of glutamine form. JPEN: J Parenter Enteral Nutr. 1997;21(4):208-214.
  27. Furukawa S. Saito H, Inoue T, et al. Supplemental glutamine augments phagocytosis and reactive oxygen intermediate production by neutrophils and monocytes from postoperative patients in vitro. Nutrition. 2000;1695):323-329.
  28. Garlick PJ. Assessment of the safety of glutamine and other amino acids. [Review]. J Nutr. 2001 Sep;131(9 Suppl):2556S-61S.
  29. Gianotti L, Alexander JW, Pyles T, Fukushima R. Arginine-supplemented diets improve survival in gut-derived sepsis and peritonitis by modulating bacterial clearance. Ann Surg. 1993;217(6):644-654.
  30. Grimm H, Kraus A. Immunonutrition--supplementary amino acids and fatty acids ameliorate immune deficiency in critically ill patients. Langenbecks Arch Surg. 2001 Aug;386(5):369-376.
  31. Jebb SA, Osborne RJ, Maughan TS. 5-fluorouracil and folinic acid-induced mucositis: no effect of oral glutamine supplementation. Br J Cancer. 1994;70: 732-735.
  32. Levy J. Immunonutrition: the pediatric experience. Nutrition. 1998;14(7-8):641-647.
  33. Medina MA. Glutamine and cancer. J Nutr. 2001;131(9 Suppl):2539S-2542S; discussion 2550S-2551S.
  34. Meyer NA, Muller MJ, Herndon DN. Nutrient support of the healing wound. New Horizons. 1994;2(2):202-214.
  35. Miller AL. Therapeutic considerations of L-glutamine: a review of the literature. Altern Med Rev. 1999;4(4):239-248.
  36. Naka S, Saito H, Hashiguchi Y, et al. Alanyl-glutamine-supplemented total parenteral nutrition improves survival and protein metabolism in rat protracted bacterial peritonitis model. J Parenter Enteral Nutr. 1996;20(6):417-423.
  37. Napoli M. Chemo effect alleviated. Health Facts. October 1998;23:6.
  38. Neu J, DeMarco V, Li N. Glutamine: clinical applications and mechanism of action. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2002;5(1):69-75
  39. Noyer CM, Simon D, Borczuk A, Brandt LJ, Lee MJ, Nehra V. A double-blind placebo-controlled pilot study of glutamine therapy for abnormal intestintal permeability in patients with AIDS. Am J Gastroenterol. 1998;93:972–975.
  40. Okuno SH, Woodhouse CO, Loprinzi CL. Phase III controlled evaluation of glutamine for decreasing stomatitis in patients receiving fluorouracil (5-FU)-based chemotherapy. Am J Clin Oncol. 1999;22:258-261.
  41. Opara EC, Petro A, Tevrizian A, et al. L-glutamine Supplementation of a high fat diet reduces body weight and attenuates hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia in C57BL/6J mice. J Nutr. 1996;126:273-279.
  42. Pizzorno JE, Murray MT. Textbook of Natural Medicine. Vol 1. 2nd ed. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone; 1999:527-528.
  43. Reeds PJ, Burrin DG. Glutamine and the bowel. J Nutr. 2001;131(9 Suppl):2505S-8S.
  44. Rouse K, Nwokedi E, Woodliff JE, et al. Glutamine enhances selectivity of chemotherapy through changes in glutathione metabolism. Ann Surg. 1995;221: 420-426.
  45. Rowbottom DG, Keast D, Morton AR. The emerging role of glutamine as an indicator of exercise stress and overtraining. [Review]. Sports Med. 1996;21(2):80-97.
  46. Rubio IT, Cao Y, Hutchins LF, et al. Effect of glutamine on methotrexate efficacy and toxicity. Ann Surg. 1998;227:772-780.
  47. Shabert JK, Winslow C, Lacey JM, Wilmore DW. Glutamine antioxidant supplementation increases body cell mass in AIDS patients with weight loss: a randomized, double-blind controlled trial. Nutrition. 1999;11:860-864.
  48. Shabert JK, Wilmore DW. Glutamine deficiency as a cause of human immunodeficiency virus wasting. Med Hypotheses. March 1996; 46:252–256.
  49. Skubitz KM, Anderson PM. Oral glutamine to prevent chemotherapy induced stomatitis: a pilot study. J Lab Clin Med. 1996;127:223-228.
  50. Tavares DC, Cecchi AO, Antunes LM, et al. Protective effects of the amino acid glutamine and of ascorbic acid against chromosomal damage induced by doxorubicin in mammalian cells. Teratog Carcinog Mutagen. 1998;18:153-161.
  51. Turowski GA, Rashid Z, Hong F, Madri J, Basson MD. Glutamine modulates phenotype and stimulates proliferation in human colon cancer cell lines. Cancer Res. 1994;54:5974-5980.
  52. Vahdat L, Papadopoulos K, Lange D, et al. Reduction of paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy with glutamine. Clin Cancer Res. 2001;7(5):1192-1197.
  53. Wilmore DW. The effect of glutamine supplementation in patients following elective surgery and accidental injury. [Review]. J Nutr. 2001;131(9 Suppl):2543S-9S; discussion 2550S-1S.
  54. Yoshida S, Matsui M, Shirouzu Y, Fujita H, Yamana H, Shirouzu K. Effects of glutamine supplements and radiochemotherapy

Lutein

Common Name: Lutein
Synonyms: luteine, lutien esters

Overview:

Lutein is a nutrient that belongs to the carotenoid family. Beta-Carotene is the best known of these carotenoids. Lutein is a yellow, fat-soluble pigment that is concentrated in the macula of the retina as well as the crystalline lens of the eye. Lutein is also found in some plants, algae and photosynthetic bacteria. Here, lutein works in conjunction with chlorophyll in gathering light for energy production in these organisms. At the same time it also protects these organisms from the toxic effects of ultra-violet radiation. Lutein which is naturally present in the macula of the human retina filters out phototoxic blue light as well as near-ultraviolet radiation from the macula. This is due in part to lutein’s powerful antioxidant properties and its ability to withstand decomposition compared to the less stable beta-carotene and lycopene. Lutein has been found to play a role in helping to prevent age-related macular degeneration (ARMD). ARMD is caused by sun damage to the sensitive tissue of the macula. Lutein appears to act as a natural eye shade helping to protect the retina from damage. It has also bee found to protect against age-related cataract formation in human beings.

Benefits

Lutein has been studied extensively and it benefits in the maintenance of eye health confirmed.

  1. Epidemiological data has found a strong link between low blood levels of lutein and the risk of developing age related macular degeneration. Laboratory testing has indicated that supplementing with lutein may offer protection from ARMD.
  2. A study at the Chicago Veterans Hospital called the LAST (Lutein Antioxidant Supplementation Trial) was the first to record improvement in several key visual functions in relation to ARMD.
  3. A multi-centered study of lutein intake in 356 men between the ages of 55 and 80 showed that those with the highest intake of carotenoids had a 43% lower risk of developing ARMD than those who consumed low levels of these carotenoids. Lutein was most strongly associated with this reduced risk.
  4. Researchers conducted a double- blind, placebo- controlled study of lutein. In this study 90 people with dry type ARMD were followed for 12 months. These recipients received lutein (10mg), lutein plus other antioxidants, lutein, antioxidants and a multivitamin, or nothing at all. After the 12 month study was concluded, those who took lutein alone or with other supplements showed improvements in vision. No improvement was seen in the placebo group.
  5. A small 2 year study showed that lutein helped slow the development of cataracts and improved the vision in those who already have cataracts.

Dietary Sources

Good dietary sources of lutein are:

Spinach
 Spinach
Romaine Lettuce
 Romaine Lettuce
Collard Greens
 Collard Greens
Kale
 Kale
Peas
 Peas
Egg Yolks
 Egg Yolks

Recommended Dosage:

Dietary intake of lutein of between 6.9 and 11.7mg daily has been associated with a decreased risk of developing age related macular degeneration.

Nutritional supplements on the market contain from .25mg to 20mg of lutein.

Contra-indications

  1. Taking beta-carotene with lutein may decrease the absorption of lutein.
  2. Taking medium chain fatty acids with lutein may decrease the absorption of lutein.
  3. Taking apple pectin with lutein may decrease the absorption of lutein.
  4. Lutein supplements should not be used in treating vitamin A deficiency as it is not converted into vitamin A.
  5. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a health care provider before using lutein. Lutein supplements have not been tested on children. Therefore children should get lutein from the food they eat.

Drug interactions

  1. Taking cholestyramine with lutein may decrease the absorption of lutein
  2. Taking colestipol with lutein may decrease the absorption of lutein.
  3. Taking mineral oil with lutein may decrease the absorption of lutein.
  4. Taking orlistat with lutein may decrease the absorption of lutein.

Web References

  1. http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/minerals/selenium/
  2. http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/nmdrugprofiles/nutsupdrugs/lut_0164.shtml
  3. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lutein

Printed Reference Material

  1. Berendschot TT, Goldbohm RA, Klö pping WA, et al. Influence of lutein supplementation on macular pigment, assessed with two objective techniques. Invest Opthalmol Vis Sci. 2000; 41:3322-3326.
  2. Bone RA, Landrum JT, Dixon Z, et al. Lutein and zeaxanthin in the eyes, serum and diet of human subjects. Exp Eye Res. 2000; 71:239-245.
  3. Bone RA, Landrum JT, Friedes LM, et al. Distribution of lutein and zeaxanthin stereoisomers in the human retinal. Exp Eye Res. 1997; 64:211-218.
  4. Bone RA, Landrum JT, Tarsis SL. Preliminary identification of the human macular pigment. Vision Res. 1985; 25:1531-1535.
  5. Bowen PE, Clark JP. Lutein esters having high bioavailability. International patent publication number: WO 98/45241. International publication date: 15 October 1998.
  6. Brown L, Rimm EB, Seddon JM, et al. A prospective study of carotenoid intake and risk of cataract extraction in U.S. men. Am J Clin Nutr. 1999; 70:517-524.
  7. Carper, J. 1995. Stop Aging Now. HarperCollins Publishers, 10 East 53rd Street, New York, New York 10022-5299. Pp. 9, 209, 210, 252, 255.
  8. Chasan-Taber L, Willett WC, Seddon JM, et al. A prospective study of carotenoid and vitamin A intakes and risk of cataract extraction in U.S. women. Am J Clin Nutr. 1999; 70:509-516.
  9. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium, and Carotenoids. Washington, DC: National Academy Press; 2000:325-382.
  10. Erdman JW Jr. Variable bioavailability of carotenoids from vegetables (editorial). Am J Clin Nutr. 1999; 70:179-180.
  11. Garnett KM, Glerhart DL, Guerra-Santos LH. Method of making pure 3R-3' R stereoisomer of zeaxanthin for human ingestion. United States Patent Number: 5,854,015. Date of Patent: Dec. 29, 1998.
  12. Gey KF. 1995. Cardiovascular disease and vitamins. Concurrent correction of 'suboptimal' plasma antioxidant levels may, as important part of 'optimal' nutrition, help to prevent early stages of cardiovascular disease and cancer, respectively. Bibl Nutr Dieta. 1995; (52): 75-91. Review.
  13. Hammond BR Jr, Wooten BR, Snodderly DM. Density of the human crystalline lens is related to the macular pigment carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin. Optom Vis Sci. 1997; 74:499-504.
  14. Handelman GJ, Nightingale ZD, Lichtenstein AH, et al. Lutein and zeaxanthin concentrations in plasma after dietary supplementation with egg yolk. Am J Clin Nutr. 1999; 70:247-251.
  15. Khachik F. Process for extraction and purification of lutein, zeaxanthin and rare carotenoids from marigold flowers and plants. International patent publication number: WO 99/20587. International publication date: 29 April 1999.
  16. Koonsvitsky BP, Berry DA, Jones MB, et al. Olestra affects serum concentrations of alpha-tocopherol and carotenoids but not vitamin D or vitamin K status in free-living subjects. J Nutr. 1997; 127(8 Suppl):1636S-1645S.
  17. Kostic D, White WS, Olson JA. Intestinal absorption, serum clearance, and interactions between lutein and beta-carotene when administered to human adults in separate or combined oral doses. Am J Clin Nutr. 1995; 62:604-610.
  18. Landrum JT, Bone RA, Joa H, et al. A one year study of the macular pigment: the effect of 140 days of a lutein supplement. Exp Eye Res. 1997; 65:57-62.
  19. Mares-Perlman JA, Millen AE, Ficek TL, Hankinson SE. 2002. The body of evidence to support a protective role for lutein and zeaxanthin in delaying chronic disease. Overview. J Nutr 2002 Mar; 132(3): 518S-524S.
  20. Mares-Perlman JA. Too soon for lutein supplements (editorial). Am J Clin Nutr. 1999; 70:431-432.
  21. Nussbaum JJ, Pruett RC, Delori FC. Historic perspectives. Macular yellow pigment. The first 200 years. Retina. 1981; 1:296-310.
  22. Olson JA. Carotenoids. In: Shils ME, Olson JA, Shike M, Ross AC. Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease. Baltimore, MD: Williams and Wilkins; 1999:525-541.
  23. Pool-Zobel BL, Bub A, Muller H, Wollowski I, Rechkemmer G. 1997. Consumption of vegetables reduces genetic damage in humans: first results of a human intervention trial with carotenoid-rich foods. Carcinogenesis 1997 Sep; 18(9): 1847-50
  24. Roodenburg AJ, Leenen R, van het Hof KH, et al. Amount of fat in the diet affects bioavailability of lutein esters but not of alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, and vitamin E in humans. Am J Clin Nutr. 2000; 71:1187-1193.
  25. Siems WG, Sommerburg O, van Kuijk FJ. Lycopene and beta-carotene decompose more rapidly than lutein and zeaxanthin upon exposure to various pro-oxidants in vitro. Biofactors. 1999; 10:105-113.
  26. Sommerburg O, Keunen JE, Bird AC, et al. Fruits and vegetables that are sources for lutein and zeaxanthin: the macular pigment in human eyes. B J Opthalmol. 1998; 82:907-910.
  27. Sommerburg OG, Siems WG, Hurst JS, et al. Lutein and zeaxanthin are associated with photoreceptors in the human retina. Curr Eye Res. 1999; 19:491-495.
  28. van den Berg H. Effect of lutein on beta-carotene absorption and cleavage. Int J Vitam Nutr Res. 1998; 68:360-365.
  29. van het Hof KH, Brouwer IA, West CE, et al. Bioavailability of lutein f
  30. Watzl B, Bub A, Brandstetter BR, Rechkemmer G. 1999. Modulation of human T-lymphocyte functions by the consumption of carotenoid-rich vegetables. Br J Nutr 1999 Nov; 82(5): 383-9

L-Glutathione

Common Name: L-Glutathione
Synonyms: Glutathione, gamma-glutamylcysteineglycine, GHS

Overview:

L-Glutathione is a small, water soluble protein that consists of the three amino acids cysteine, glutamic acid and glyceine. It has two forms, reduced glutathione and oxidized glutathione. It is found in all forms of life and is essential for their existence. Nature has built the glutathione matrix to make cysteine more soluble and active in living tissue. L-glutathione is active in many biological functions in the body. These biological activities include: catalysis (catalysis is increase in rate of a chemical reaction by means of a substance, called a catalyst, that is itself not consumed by the overall reaction), metabolism (The chemical processes occurring within a living cell or organism that are necessary for the maintenance of life. ), cell signaling (cell signaling is part of a complex system of communication that governs basic cellular activities and coordinates cell actions. ), cell apoptosis (cell self destruction) and as part of the enzyme, glutathione S-transferase. This enzyme is involved in the detoxification of xenobiotics (a chemical such as a pesticide which is found in an organism, but is not produced there) that include carcinogenic genotoxins. It is also involved in the regeneration of vitamin C from its oxidized form.

L-glutathione is present in the diet in only small amounts, usually about 100mg per day. It is easily synthesized in the body from the amino acids L-cysteine, L-glutamate and glyceine and because of this is not considered an essential nutrient. In fact, research has shown that dietary l-glutathione is broken down during digestion and is not absorbed intact into the blood stream. All the L-glutathione circulating within the body has been synthesized in the liver. Because of the ability of the body to synthesis all the glutathione that it needs, glutathione defiency is seen only is situations where there is a condition that inhibits its production. A condition called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency leads to a decrease in the synthesis of L-glutathione. L-glutathione deficiency always appears as a hemolytic (lyses the red blood cells) anemia. Chronic functional glutathione deficiency manifests itself in other area. It leads to immune disorders, an increased rate of cancer as well as an accelerated rate of disease progression seen in HIV. Overdosing on acetaminophen (Tylenol) leads to a depletion of the glutathione levels in liver cells, leads to liver failure and ultimately death.

Benefits

L-glutathione is the subject of ongoing medical research. This research has been done using animal as well as human subjects. Some of this research shows that:

  1. Glutathione in an animal study produced significant regression of liver cancers with an enhanced survival rate in the animals tested. The rats not given glutathione died within 24 months of developing the cancers but 81% of those who received the glutathione were still alive after the 24 month study. The researchers concluded that the anti-cancer potential of glutathione should be investigated as a potential antitumor agent in humans.
  2. Glutathione has the capacity to protect against the toxic effects of cisplatin (a chemotherapeutic drug used in the treatment of metastatic ovarian or testicular cancers and advanced bladder cancer). Several studies have confirmed that glutathione is effective in diminishing cisplatin induced nephro and neurotoxicity
  3. Preliminary research is indicating that L-glutathione may prevent platelet clumping and other circulatory problems associated with people who suffer from atherosclerosis. It has also shown to help preserve renal function in patients undergoing coronary bypass surgery.
  4. An aerosol of L-glutathione is helpful in reducing the oxidant-antioxidant imbalance seen in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis as well as reducing the surface inflammation in patients with cystic fibrosis. Use of this aerosol has been used in HIV patients to help improve glutathione levels that can occur in their lower respiratory tract.
  5. L-glutathione has been shown to enhance insulin secretion in the elderly with impaired glucose tolerance.
  6. In a double blind placebo study, it was shown that injected glutathione had significant effects on sperm motility and morphology in infertile men.
  7. Preliminary in vitro (in the test tube) studies show that glutathione inhibits herpes simplex virus type 1 replication. More studies are needed in this area

Recommended Dosage:

Remember the above studies were not done with oral supplements of glutathione but intramuscular injections or aerosols. L-glutathione is not absorbed into the blood stream from the digestive tract. Instead it is synthesized from L-cysteine, L-glutamate and glyceine. The only cells that may absorb small amounts of L-glutathione are the cells lining the digestive tract.

It has been shown that other oral supplements may help raise blood glutathione levels. These include:

  1. The use of whey protein which is high in cysteine can raise the glutathione level in people with cancer, hepatitis and HIV.
  2. Vitamin C supplements, whose functions overlap glutathione’s, may help increase glutathione levels.
  3. Lipoic acid supplements appear to raise glutathione levels as well
  4. N-acetylcholine, glutamione, methionine and SAMe (S-adenosyl methionine) may also help increase glutathione levels.

Glutathione supplements are available in capsules that range from 50-600mg taking per day. Glutathione is also found in combination with other nutrients.

Contra-indications

Beware that studies have shown that excessive use of acetaminophen (Tylenol) can dangerously deplete the levels of glutathione in the body. Glutathione levels are also reduced in cigarette smokers as well as those suffering from cancer, cataracts, diabetics and HIV infection.

People who are sensitive to any component in a glutathione containing product should not use this supplement.

The use of glutathione for the treatment of AIDS associated cachexia (the severe wasting syndrome that accompanies such diseases as cancers , HIV infections and other long term illnesses ) can only be done under medical supervision.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use L-glutathione supplements

Glutathione supplements should not be given to children as L-glutathione supplementation has not been studied in children.

Drug interactions

L-glutathione given either by intravenous or intramuscular injection has proven helpful in counteracting the effects of cisplatin (a drug used in chemotherapy).

Web References

  1. http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/nmdrugprofiles/nutsupdrugs/glu_0126.shtml
  2. http://healthlibrary.epnet.com/GetContent.aspx?token=e0498803-7f62-4563-8d47-5fe33da65dd4&chunkiid=108306
  3. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glutathione

Printed Reference Material

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Lycopene

Common Name: Lycopene
Synonyms: C40H56

Overview:

Lycopene is another member of the carotenoid family of phytochemicals. It is a bright red phytochemical and is responsible for the color of tomatoes and watermelons. Like other carotenoids, lycopene absorbs light during the process of photosynthesis (the chemical process by which green plants makes food from sunlight) and helps turn it into energy. It is also protects the plant cells against photosensitization (a heightened response to sunlight or ultraviolet radiation) that can cause damage to the plant cells.

Like all the other brightly colored members of the carotenoid family, lycopene is a powerful antioxidant and is thought to play a major role in helping to prevent many health altering conditions. These conditions include: macular degeneration, cataracts, cardiovascular disease and several different cancers including breast, cervical, prostate, colon, lung, and gastrointestinal. Lycopene protects against cancer and age related diseases by quenching and neutralizing the damage caused by free radicals to the cells and tissues of the body.

Benefits

Research into lycopene is beginning to show how important this carotenoid is to good health. Studies have shown:

  1. That in a six year study of Seventh Day Adventist men (those who are Seventh Day Adventist are often vegetarian and/or limit their intact of meat), it was found that in the men who ate tomatoes more that 5 times a week the relative risk of prostate cancer was 0.60 compared to those who ate them less than once a week.
  2. That the risk of developing prostate cancer was 35% less in those who ate more that 10 servings of tomatoes weekly. This was compared to those who ate fewer that 1.5 serving a week. This study followed the eating habits of 47,000 men for six years. A positive correlation between the consumption of lycopene rich, tomato based foods and an apparent resistance to the development of prostate cancer.
  3. There is an inverse relationship between the consumption of tomatoes and tomato based products such as tomato, pizza and spaghetti sauces or blood lycopene levels and the risk of developing various types of cancer. This inverse relationship was found in 52 out of 72 studies reviewed. This inverse relationship was most strongly associated with prostate, lung and stomach cancers.
  4. That in a preliminary study, 33 men scheduled for prostate surgery randomly received 30mg of lycopene per day or nothing at all. In 12 men who received no lycopene, 9 showed that the cancer cells had spread to the edge of the prostate glands while in the 21 who received lycopene supplements only 7 showed any spread of the cancer. The level of PSA levels in the blood (prostate specific antigen, sued to monitor progress after prostate surgery) fell 20% in those who received the lycopene supplements while those who received no supplement remained unchanged.
  5. In epidemiological studies and inverse relationship between high levels of lycopene in tissue and coronary artery disease. In a recent 3 week study of 19 healthy subjects eating a lycopene rich diet while no change was seen in the total level of cholesterol in the blood, there was a significant decease in the oxidation of in lipid peroxidation and LDL-cholesterol oxidation (this is what antioxidants do, they prevent cholesterol from being turned into harmful substances like ____ and ___ by dangerous free radicals). It was found that consuming at least 40mg of lycopene reduced the destruction of LDL. High LDL oxidation is associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease.
  6. That lycopene may also reduce sun damage to the skin caused by ultraviolet light. Exposure to ultraviolet light is what is responsible for not only tanning but sunburn, premature aging of the skin and skin cancer. This is caused by the formation of free radicals. Lycopene with its ability to destroy these free radicals may help to lessen the effects of sun exposure and skin damage.
  7. Lycopene has also proven helpful in the prevention and treatment of preeclampsia. In a double blind study of 252 pregnant women who received either a placebo or 2mg of lycopene twice a day, those who received the lycopene supplements their chances of developing Preeclampsia had a significantly lower risk of developing this dangerous complication of pregnancy ( a complication that can sometimes lead to the death of the mother).
  8. Promise in reducing the precancerous condition, leukoplakia, in the mouth and other mucous membranes. In a double blind study, 58 people with oral leukoplakia received either 8mg or 4mg of lycopene daily or a placebo for three months. They were then followed for an additional two months. Both does of Lycopene proved to be more effective than the placebo in reducing the signs and symptoms of leukoplakia and the 8mg was more effective than the 4mg dose.

Dietary Sources

Good sources of lycopene are:

Tomatoes
 Tomatoes
Watermelon
 Watermelon
Pink Grapefruit
 Pink Grapefruit
Guavas
 Guavas
Papayas
 Papayas
Apricots
 Apricots

With watermelon containing even more lycopene that tomatoes.

Recommended Dosage:

Although, no optimal dosage of lycopene has been set, lycopene is available in:

  1. Tablets of 10mg
  2. Capsules of 5, 6, and 10mg

The dosage for optimal health benefits is believed to be approximately 30mg taken in 15mg doses twice a day.

Contra-indications

  1. People who are sensitive to any member of the nightshade family such as tomatoes, peppers, potatoes and eggplants should get lycopene from other food sources such as watermelon pink grapefruits, guavas or papayas. Any supplement should be free of solanine, the sensitizing chemical in these vegetables.
  2. Tomatoes and tomato based products are also contraindicated in cases of nightshade sensitive arthritis and lycopene should be obtained from other food sources or from solanine free supplements.
  3. As the safety of lycopene supplements in children or those with liver or kidney disease has not been studied, these people should receive lycopene from a food source.
  4. Again, although the preeclampsia study showed lycopene supplements to be safe for pregnant women, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should obtain lycopene from food or consult a health care provider before using.

Drug interactions

  1. Cholestyramine, a drug used to lower serum cholesterol levels, taken at the same time as lycopene may decrease the absorption of lycopene.
  2. Colestipol, an oral cholesterol-lowering agent, when taken with lycopene may decrease the absorption of lycopene.
  3. Mineral oil taken at the same time as lycopene may decrease the absorption of lycopene.
  4. Orlistat, a drug that promotes loss of weight by preventing the digestion and absorption of dietary fat, may decrease the absorption of lycopene.
  5. Dietary oils, especially olive oil, have been shown to enhance the absorption of lycopene. Cooking has been shown to have no detrimental effects on lycopene and actually enhances its health giving properties.
  6. Olestra may reduce the absorption of lycopene.

Nutritional interactions

  1. Beta-carotene taken with lycopene may increase the absorption of lycopene.
  2. Medium chain fatty acids are components of coconut and palm kernel oils, taken with lycopene may increase the absorption of lycopene.
  3. Pectin taken at the same time as lycopene may decrease the absorption of lycopene.

Web References

  1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lycopene
  2. http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/nmdrugprofiles/nutsupdrugs/lyc_0165.shtml
  3. http://healthlibrary.epnet.com/GetContent.aspx?token=e0498803-7f62-4563-8d47-5fe33da65dd4&chunkiid=21805

Printed Reference Material

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  25. Karimi G, Ramezani M, Abdi A. Protective effects of lycopene and tomato extract against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. Phytother Res. 2005;19:912-4.
  26. Key TJ, Silcocks PB, Davey GK, et al. A case-control study of diet and prostate cancer. Br J Cancer. 1997;76:678–687.
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  30. Leal M, Shimada S, Ruiz F, et al. Effect of lycopene on lipid peroxidation and glutathione-dependent enzymes induced by T-2 toxin in vivo. Toxicol Lett. 1999; 109:1-10.
  31. Mares-Perlman JA, Brady WE, Klein R, et al. Serum antioxidants and age-related macular degeneration in a population-based case-control study. Arch Ophthalmol. 1995;113:1518–1523.
  32. Michaud DS, Feskanich D, Rimm EB, et al. Intake of specific carotenoids and risk of lung cancer in 2 prospective U.S. cohorts. Am J Clin Nutr. 2000; 72:990-997.
  33. Michaud DS, Feskanich D, Rimm EB, et al. Intake of specific carotenoids and risk of lung cancer in 2 prospective US cohorts. Am J Clin Nutr. 2000;72:990–997.
  34. Mohanty NK, Saxena S, Singh UP et al. Lycopene as a chemopreventive agent in the treatment of high-grade prostate intraepithelial neoplasia. Urol Oncol. 2005;23:383-5.
  35. Neuman I, Nahum H, Ben-Amotz A. Reduction of exercise-induced asthma oxidative stress by lycopene, a natural antioxidant. Allergy. 2000;55:1184–1189.
  36. New Research Shows Combination of Tomato Phytonutrients Effectively Combats Breast Cancer (February 2000). Press Release from LycoRed Natural Products Industries Ltd., P.O.B. 320, Beer -Sheva 84102, Israel.
  37. Nomura AM, Stemmermann GN, Lee J, et al. Serum micronutrients and prostate cancer in Japanese Americans in Hawaii. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 1997;6:487–491.
  38. Okajima E, Tsutsumi M, Ozono S. Inhibitory effect of tomato juice on rat urinary bladder carcinogenesis after N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl)nitrosamine initiation. Jpn J Cancer Res. 1998;89:22–26.
  39. Paetau I, Rao D, Wiley ER, et al. Carotenoids in human buccal mucosa cells after 4 wk of supplementation with tomato juice or lycopene supplements. Am J Clin Nutr. 1999; 70:490-494.
  40. Rao AV, Agarwal S. Bioavailability and in vivo antioxidant properties of lycopene from tomato products and their possible role in the prevention of cancer. Nutr Cancer. 1998; 31:199-203.
  41. Rao AV, Agarwal S. Role of lycopene as antioxidant carotenoid in the prevention of chronic diseases: a review. Nutr Res. 1999; 19:305-323.
  42. Rao AV, Fleshner N, Agarwal S. Serum and tissue lycopene and biomarkers of oxidation in prostate cancer patients: a case-control study. Nutr Cancer. 1999; 33:159-164.
  43. Riso P, Pinder A, Santangelo A, Porrini M. Does tomato consumption effectively increase the resistance of lymphocyte DNA to oxidative damage? Am J Clin Nutr. 1999; 69:712-718.
  44. Sengupta A, Das S. The anti-carcinogenic role of lycopene, abundantly present in tomato. Eur J Cancer Prev. 1999; 8:325-330.
  45. Sesso HD, Buring JE, Norkus EP et al. Plasma lycopene, other carotenoids, and retinol and the risk of cardiovascular disease in men. Am J Clin Nutr. 2005;81:990-7.
  46. Sesso HD, Liu S, Gaziano JM, et al. Dietary lycopene, tomato-based food products and cardiovascular disease in women. J Nutr. 2003;133:2336-41.
  47. Shao A, Hathcock JN. Risk assessment for the carotenoids lutein and lycopene. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2006;45:289-98.
  48. Sharma JB, Kumar A, Kumar A, et al. Effect of lycopene on pre-eclampsia and intra-uterine growth retardation in primigravidas. Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2003;81:257–262.
  49. Sibai BM. Prevention of preeclampsia: a big disapointment. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1998;179:1275–1278.
  50. Sies H, Stahl W. Lycopene: antioxidant and biological effects and its bioavailability in the human. Proc Soc Exp Biol Med. 1998; 218:121-124.
  51. Singh M, Krishanappa R, Bagewadi A, et al. Efficacy of oral lycopene in the treatment of oral leukoplakia. OralOncol. 2004;40:591-6.
  52. Stahl W, Heinrich U, Wiseman S, et al. Dietary tomato paste protects against ultraviolet light-induced erythema in humans. Journal of Nutrition. 2001;131:1449-51.
  1. Sutherland WH, Walker RJ, De Jong SA, Upritchard JE. Supplementation with tomato juice increases plasma lycopene but does not alter susceptibility to oxidation of low-density lipoproteins from renal transplant patients. Clin Nephrol. 1999; 52:30
  2. Wang L, Liu S, Manson JE et al. The consumption of lycopene and tomato-based food products is not associated with the risk of type 2 diabetes in women. J Nutr. 2006;136:620-5.
  3. Weisburger JH. Evaluation of the evidence on the role of tomato products in disease prevention. Proc Soc Exp Biol Med. 1998;218:140–143.
  4. Yilmaz S, Atessahin A, Sahna E et al. Protective effect of lycopene on adriamycin-induced cardiotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. Toxicology. 2005;218:164-71.

Lactobacillus Sporogenes

Lactobacillus Sporogenes is widely regarded as the ultimate probiotic (friendly bacteria) because it inhibits the growth of candida, fungal infections, and E. coli. It helps lower cholesterol, boosts your immune system, produces B vitamins needed for healthy muscle tone in the GI tract and helps reduce the symptoms associated with IBS.

L-Tyrosine

A nonessential amino acid that the body synthesizes from phenylalanine, another amino acid. Vegetables and juices contain small amounts of it.

L-Trytophan

An essential amino acid, is the precursor to serotonin, which is responsible for inducing sleep.

L-Methionine

An essential amino acid that assists in the breakdown of fats.

L-Arginine

Common Name: L-Arginine
Synonyms: arginine hydrochloride, arginine

Overview:

Arginine is a conditionally essential amino acid. The body under normal circumstances makes all the arginine that it needs. In periods of stress, the body’s need for arginine outstrips its ability to produce it. Some of theses stressors include surgery, trauma, and severe burns. Because of this increased demand for arginine, it is important to supplement arginine to ensure that the body has an adequate supply. Most of the L-arginine is synthesized in the kidneys. From there the amino acid enters the circulation and is metabolized into cellular energy throughout the body.

Although not an essential amino acid, arginine is extremely important in many physiological functions in the body. These include:

  1. The detoxification of ammonia produced in the urea cycle.
  2. Its role as a precursor to nitric oxide, creatine, and L-glutamate, L-proline, agmatin (a neurotransmitter).
  3. Being able to convert to glucose and glycogen or into cellular energy as needed by the body.

Benefits

L-arginine has been subjected to intensive study and much of its abilities are linked to its role as a precursor of NO (nitric oxide). NO is produced by all tissues in the body and has a relaxing effect on the cardiovascular system. It is very important roles in the cardiovascular system, immune system, and the nervous system. It is also a precursor of L-proline a key element in collagen synthesis.

There are many studies on L-arginine that show it has great promise in several areas of health and healing.

  1. Studies have shown that oral doses of L-arginine have induced the release of HGH (human growth hormone) and prolactin
  2. Many in vitro (in the lab) have shown that L-arginine effects endothelial cells that such a way as to prevent cardiovascular disease. This studies have been confirmed in both animal and clinical studies. In animal models, L-arginine has normalized lipids and vasodilatory response, inhibited the formation of aggregates and arterial plaques. There has also been evidence that L-arginine can even cause pre-existing plaques to become smaller.

These findings have also been seen in people with elevated lipid levels and high blood pressure. In a recent long term study, supplemental arginine given over a six month period, significant improvement was seen in cardiovascular functioning.

  1. People with angina also showed a significant improvement in their ability in angina attacks and an improved exercise capacity.
  2. L-arginine has long been successfully used as a supplement following trauma and infections. Studies have shown that by improving the nitrogen balance, L-arginine has been helpful in trauma and post surgical situations by inhibiting post-injury weight loss and to speed up the healing process. This leads to much shorter hospital stays. This ability of L-arginine to prevent weight loss has also been seen in HIV infected patients. L-arginine not only prevented a loss of weight in these people but actually caused them to gain weight.
  3. Several studies have concluded that L-arginine improves the host immunity if many conditions including some cancers.
  4. Still other studies have shown that supplementation with arginine has improve sexual functioning in both men and women.

Recommended Dosage:

For cardiovascular health, 8-21gms are taken in divided doses daily
For improved sexual function, 5gms daily

Doses of up to 15gms are usually well tolerated. Nausea, abdominal cramps and diarrhea may be experienced in doses over 15gms.

Precautions

  1. Supplemental L-arginine should not be used by those with the genetic disorder arginemia (a rare genetic defect that causes a build up of arginine and ammonia in the blood) .
  2. The herpes simplex virus is rich in L-arginine. It has been suggested that those who suffer from cold sores (oral herpes) should avoid arginine supplements as they may aggravate the situation.
  3. L-arginine with cyclosporins may counteract the antinaturetic effect of this drug.
  4. Taking L-arginine with ibuprofen may increase the absorption of that drug.
  5. L-arginine taking with sildenafil citrate ( for erectile dysfunction) may increase the effectiveness of this medication.
  6. L-arginine taken with the herb yohimbe may enhance the effect of this herb

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid the use of L-arginine. This is because of the possibility of stimulating the release of HGH. The affects of this supplement has not been tested on children and those suffering from liver or kidney disease. It is recommended that in children and people with liver or kidney disease this supplementation not be used.

Web References

  1. http://healthlibrary.epnet.com/GetContent.aspx?token=e0498803-7f62-4563-8d47-5fe33da65dd4&chunkiid=21509
  2. http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/nmdrugprofiles/nutsupdrugs/lar_0024.shtml

Printed Reference Material

  1. "Prospective Study tests Nutritional Supplements enriched with Arginine and Omega–3 Fatty Acids." Health Inform: Essential Information on Alternative Health Care (April 1999).
  2. Andres A, Morales JM, Praga M, et al. L-arginine reverses the antinatriuretic effect of cyclosporin in renal transplant patients. Nephrol Dial Transplant. 1997; 12:1437-1440.
  3. Barbul A, Sisto DA, Wasserkrug HL, Efron G. Arginine stimulates lymphocyte immune response in healthy human beings. Surgery. 1981; 90:244-251.
  4. Barbul A. Arginine: biochemistry, physiology, and therapeutic implications. JPEN. 1986; 10:227-238.
  5. Bode-Boger SM, Boger RH, Galland A, et al. L-arginine-induced vasodilation in healthy humans: pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic relationship. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1998; 46:489-497.
  6. Brandes RP, Brandes S, Boger RH, et al. L-Arginine supplementation in hypercholesterolemic rabbits normalizes leukocyte adhesion to non-endothelial matrix. Life Sci. 2000; 66:1519-1524.
  7. Cartledge JJ, Davies A-M, Eardley I. A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled crossover trial of the efficacy of L-arginine in the treatment of interstitial cystitis. BJU Int. 2000; 85:421-426.
  8. Chan JS, Boger RH, Bode-Boger SM. Et al. Asymmetric dimethylarginine increases mononuclear cell adhesiveness in hypercholesterolemic humans. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol. 2000; 20:1040-1046.
  9. Chen J, Wollman Y, Chernichovsky T, et al. Effect of oral administration of high-dose nitric oxide donor L-arginine in men with organic erectile dysfunction: results of a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study. BJU Int. 1999; 83:269-273.
  10. Chowienczyk, Phil and Jim Ritter. "Arginine: NO more than a simple amino acid?" The Lancet 27 (September 1997).
  11. Clarkson P, Adams MR, Powe AJ, et al. Oral L-arginine improves endothelium-dependent dilation in hypercholesterolemic young adults. J Clin Invest. 1996; 97:1989-1994.
  12. Cooke JP. Singer AH, Tsao P, et al. Antiatherogenic effects of L-arginine in the hypercholesterolemic rabbit. J Clin Invest. 1992; 90:1168-1172.
  13. Gerard, James M. and Atchawee Luisiri. "A fatal overdose of arginine hydrochloride." Journal of Toxicology (November 1997).
  14. Griffith RS, DeLong DC, Nelson JD. Relation of arginine-lysine antagonism to herpes simplex growth in tissue culture. Chemotherapy. 1981; 27:209-213.
  15. Hambrecht R, Hilbrich L, Erbs S, et al. Correction of endothelial dysfunction in chronic heart failure: additional effects of exercise training and oral L-arginine supplementation. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2000; 35:701-713.
  16. Henderson, Charles W. "Suppression of Arginine Transport and Nitric Oxide Synthesis in Activated Macrophages by Cat 2 Antisense Oligonucleotides." Cancer Weekly Plus (28 December 1998).
  17. Horton JW, White J, Maass D, Sanders B. Arginine in burn injury improves cardiac performance and prevents bacterial translocation. J Appl Physiol. 1998; 84:695-702.
  18. Klotter, Jule. "Arginine and Heart Disease." Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients (August-September 2002): 22.
  19. Marandino, Cristin. "Taking Heart." Vegetarian Times (November 1999).
  20. Pessarosa, A.; Dazzi, D.; Negro, C.; Cebigni, C.; Vescovi, P. P. "Effects of Alcohol Consumption and Accompanying Diet on Metabolic Response to Arginine in Chronic Alcoholics." Journal of Studies on Alcohol (September 1999).
  21. Rodale Press. "Bypass This Snack." Men's Health (November 1999).
  22. Rodale Press. "Is Being Henpecked Hereditary?" Men's Health (January 2000).
  23. Thomas, Clayton, L., M.D., M.P.H., ed. "Hyperkalemia." Taber's Cyclopedic Medica Dictionary. Edition 13 Philadelphia: F. A. Davis Company, 1977.
  24. Webb, Denise. "Ease Exercise–Related Pains with Arginine." Prevention December 1999.
  25. Williams, Stephen. "Passing the Acid Test." Newsweek 27 March 2000.

Licorice

Common name: Licorice
Scientific name: Glycyrrhiza glabra
Synonyms: sweet root, sweet wood, liquorice  Spanish licorice
Parts used: sweet root

 Overview:

Licorice Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice is native to the Mediterranean region and central through southwest Asia. Licorice prefers warm sandy soil and warm weather. It is a perennial that reaches heights of between 3 and 7 feet with small yellow, blue or violet flowers.    It is its extensive branching root system that is harvested and dried.

Traditional medicine of both the Eastern and Western world have valued licorice root for its healing properties.  Its use has been documented as early as 2500 B.C. in Assyria and Egypt.  Licorice root has always been valued for treating respiratory problems such as coughs, colds, and bronchitis.  It can still be found in a number of over the counter cough and cold preparations.  The active ingredient in licorice is so sweet that it is often used to mask the taste of other unpleasant herbs in traditional herbal preparations.


Active Ingredients:

  • glycycrrhizin-licorice roots main constituent and 50 times sweeter than sugar
  • asparagine
  • saponin
  • sugars
  • resin
  • a bitter principle
  • volatile oil

Traditional uses:

Because of its many healing properties, licorice root is valued by traditional healers all over the world.  Many of these uses are holding up to the close scrutiny of modern medicine practitioners.  Licorice is use in traditional medicine:

  • as a demulcent to sooth and heal mucus membranes
  • as an expectorant to loosen and help remove excess mucus
  • as a laxative to treat constipation
  • as a stomachic to treat and heal ulcers
  • as a fever reducer
  • as an anti-spasmodic to help relieve digestive upsets such as gas and bloating
  • as a tonic for the liver and endocrine system
  • as a diuretic

Clinical uses:

Licorice root has been studied extensively.  These studies not only confirm what traditional healers already knew but have found licorice root very beneficial in treating viral infections.  The use of licorice has proven effective for:

  • the treatment of stomach ulcers.  Studies have shown that licorice root does help the stomach heal itself.  In fact, a constituent of glycycrrhizin, glycycrrhentinic acid is used in the commercial preparation of carbenoxolone.  Carbenoxolone is used as an anti inflammatory for treating stomach ulcers.
  • reduces blood pressure.  Studies have shown that people taking licorice root for one month noted a 10% drop in their systolic blood  pressure
  • lowering cholesterol. By taking licorice root extract, patients saw a significant drop in total cholesterol, LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides.
  • treating chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver.  The Japanese have used licorice root to treat patients who are suffering from chronic hepatitis.  Studies have shown that by treating patients with intravenous glycyrrhizin, cysteine and glycine for 10 years were less likely to progress to liver cancer or progressive liver failure.
  • treating the symptoms of chronic respiratory and digestive system problems. 
  • Treating the symptoms of skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema and herpes.

Recommended Dosage:

Pediatric

For treating sore throats in older children a piece of licorice root may be chewed or a tea made. Pediatric dosages are calculated by a child’s body weight.  Since adult dosages are calculated using a body weight of 150 lbs to calculate a pediatric dose simply take the child’s weight and divide by 150 lbs.  For example, if a child weights 50 lbs and the adult dose for a supplement is 150mg:

50lbs/150lbs=.33 or 1/3 of adult dose so take the 150mg adult dose and divide by 3 to obtain the child’s dose of 50mg.

Adult

  • use 1-5 grams of dried root  in a decoction (strong tea) or infusion to be taken 3 times/day.  The decoction or infusion can also be made with milk
  • Tincture (1:5) in 30% ethanol: 2 to 5ml three times a day.
  • An ointment for the treatment of skin conditions should contain 2% licorice root and be applied 2 times/day.
  • Tablets should contain 380mg and be taken before meals and at bedtime.

Contra-indications:

Taken high does of licorice may cause serious side effects.  Taking more that 20grams/day can lead to:

  1. Pseudoaldosteonism.  This condition causes an individual to become overly sensitive to a hormone in the adrenal cortex.  This can lead to headaches, fatigue,  elevated blood pressure, and heart attacks.  It can also lead to water retention with the accumulation of fluid in the legs.
  2. even a more moderate doses some people experience muscle pain in the extremities
  3. weight gain
  4. people with high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, kidney, heart, or liver conditions should avoid licorice.
  5. It is not recommended that licorice be taken for longer than four to six weeks.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take licorice in any form.  Men who suffer from sexual dysfunction should avoid licorice as well.

Drug interactions

Licorice has been found to interact with many medications.  Do not take licorice if:

  • You are taking agiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or diuretics to control blood pressure. It can cause a dangerous depletion in potassium levels.
  • You are taking digoxin.  Licorice may dangerously increase the toxic side effects of this medication and should not be taken if you are on this medication.
  • Taking oral contraceptives.  Licorice in combination with oral contraceptives has been shown to raise blood pressure and lower potassium levels.
  • It has been shown to enhance the adverse effects of insulin
  • Cause substantial loss of potassium if a person in taking a stimulant laxative

Positive interactions:

  • It has shown to protect the stomach against the ulcer risk of taking aspirin.
  • It has been shown to increase the effects of topical corticosteroids in relieving skin irritations.

Web References

  1. Flora Health
  2. Holistic Online
  3. UMM.edu

Printed Reference Material

  1. Blumenthal M, Goldberg A, Brinckmann J 2000. Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs. Copyright American Botanical Council. Publ. by Integrative Medicine Communications, 1029 Chestnut Street, Newton, MA 02464. Pp. 233-239.
  2. Duke, J. 1997: The Green Pharmacy, The Ultimate Compendium of Natural Remedies from the World's Foremost Authority on Healing and Herbs. Rodale Press. pp. 81-82; 85; 98; 106-107; 133; 142; 162; 169; 180; 190; 224; 247; 292; 323-324; 385-386; 393-94; 446, 447, 449; 455; 490; 529-30; 545; 561.
  3. Khayyal MT, el-Ghazaly MA, Kenawy SA, Seif-el-Nasr M, Mahran LG, Kafafi YA, Okpanyi SN. 2001. Antiulcerogenic effect of some gastrointestinally acting plant extracts and their combination. Arzneimittelforschung 2001; 51(7): 545-53.

The publisher does not accept any responsibility for the accuracy of the information or the consequences arising from the application, use, or misuse of any of the information contained herein, including any injury and/or damage to any person or property as a matter of product liability, negligence, or otherwise.

Lecithin

Phosphatidylcholine, a phospholipid in lecithin.

Common Name: Lecithin
Synonyms: phosphatidylcholine, PtdCho, 1, 2-diacyl-:ussn:ue-glycero-3-phosphocholine

Overview:

Lecithin has two meanings. If you are a chemist or biochemist, lecithin is synonymous with phosphatidylcholine. If on the other hand, you are using lecithin in a commercially prepared supplement, lecithin is a mixture of glycolipds, triglycerides, and the phospholipids: phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylinositol. Phosphatidylcholine makes up from 20-90% of commercial lecithin with 20% being the most common.

Lecithin come from both plant and animal sources. Soybean, sunflower and rapeseed are the major plant sources of lecithin with soybean being the most common. Although egg yolks are naturally rich in lecithin (eggs contain form 68-72% phosphatidylcholine), eggs are not a source of lecithin used in supplements. Both egg and soy lecithin are a mixture of fatty acids, but soy contains a higher amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids than egg yolk does.

Although neither lecithin nor phosphatidylcholine are essential nutrients, choline is. Without enough choline, acetylcholine production is inhibited. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter and plays a vital role in the movement of impulses up and down the neural pathways.

Phosphatidylcholine is an integral part of healthy cell membranes. It is vital to all of the biological processes that take place inside and between cells: from transmitting the information contained in DNA and RNA for protein synthesis: to the formation of the energy needed to run each cell and the transmission of information between cells. When cell membranes loose their flexibility, become unable to repair themselves and begin to breakdown, cell death occurs. This cellular death has been tied to a number of disorders. These disorders include liver disease, neurological disorders and even some types of cancer.

Benefits

Research is beginning to show just how valuable lecithin and phosphatidylcholine are to healthy liver and nerve function. Adequate intake of lecithin has proven to be:

  1. Essential for maintaining a healthy liver. Phosphatidylcholine has been shown to restore liver function in a variety of liver disorders including alcoholic fibrosis and viral hepatitis. Clinical studies have shown that choline is essential for normal liver function. Phosphatidylcholine has proven to be a better delivery system then choline itself (choline is not well tolerated). Research is also proving that phosphatidylcholine, itself, has the ability to protect the liver. In two long term (up to eight years) animal studies, baboons were fed diets high in alcohol, some were supplemented with soy lecithin (60% phosphatidylcholine), and some were not. In the baboons that received lecithin supplementation, both fibrosis and cirrhosis were largely prevented.
  2. Lessen the effects of viral hepatitis. Several research groups, based in Europe, have reported that phosphatidylcholine protects the liver from other toxic substances. In one of these studies, patients suffering from type A and B hepatitis were given 1.8grams of phosphatidylcholine daily. When compared to the unsupplemented control group, the group that received supplementation recovered quicker, had fewer relapses, with liver function tests returning to normal at a much faster pace. Researchers in Great Britain treated chronic active hepatitis C (a usually fatal form of viral hepatitis) with 3 grams of phosphatidylcholine daily. In this double blind study, the patients who received the supplement showed a reduction in symptoms compared to those who received no supplementation. All histological evidence (abnormalities seen on a microscopic level) actually disappeared in some cases. It has been hypothesized by those involved in these studies, that the supplement’s antiviral effects were related to its ability to increase the fluidity of the cell membrane and repair the cell membrane of the liver cells.
  3. A possible treatment in cognitive disorders such as tardive dyskinesia (a neurological disorder), age related memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease. The studies are just beginning in this area and reports have shown only minor if any benefits from supplementation. Research continues.

Dietary Sources

Egg Yolk
 Egg Yolk
Soy Beans
 Soy Beans

Recommended Dosage:

The recommended dosage is from 3-9gms in divided doses per day.

Lecithin supplements contain 20-30% phosphatidylcholine
Soft gel capsules containing 55-60% phosphatidylcholine
Liquid concentrates contain 3 grams of phosphatidylcholine per 1 teaspoon

Contra-indications

Lecithin and phosphatidylcholine are both generally regarded as safe.
However, people with malabsorption problems may develop diarrhea or steatorrhea when taking lecithin supplements.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a health care provider before using a lecithin supplement. Those with antiphospholipid-antibody syndrome should also consult their healthcare practitioner before starting supplement.

Drug interactions

None known

Web References

  1. http://healthlibrary.epnet.com/GetContent.aspx?token=e0498803-7f62-4563-8d47-5fe33da65dd4&chunkiid=21680
  2. http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/nmdrugprofiles/nutsupdrugs/pho_0288.shtml
  3. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lecithin

Printed Reference Material

  1. "Lecithin." Vegetarian Times (February 2000): 24.
  2. "Shell Shocker. (Nutrition Bulletin)." Men's Health (April 2002): 32.
  3. [Article by: Amy Cooper; Teresa G. Odle]
  4. Atoba MA, Ayoola EA, Ogunseyinde O. Effects of essential phospholipid choline on the course of acute hepatitis-B infection. Trop Gastroenterol. 1985; 6:96-9.
  5. Buchanan, Caroline. "Lecithin Supplements: A Source of Help or Hype?" Environmental Nutrition (June, 1989):1-3.
  6. Buko V, Lukivskaya O, Nikitin V, et al. Hepatic and pancreatic effects of polyenoylphosphatidylcholine in rats with alloxan-induced diabetes. Cell Biochem Funct. 1996; 14:131-137.
  7. Canty DJ, Zeisel SH. Lecithin and choline in human health and disease. Nutr Rev. 1994; 52:327-339.
  8. Cohen BM, Lipinski JF, Altesman RI. Lecithin in the treatment of mania: double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. Am J Psychiatry. 1982; 139:1162-1164.
  9. Gelenberg AJ, Dorer DJ, Wojcik JD, et al. A crossover study of lecithin treatment of tardive dyskinesia. J Clin Psychiatry. 1990; 51:149-153.
  10. Gormley, James J. "Brewer's Yeast and Lecithin-Two Underrated Health Promoters." Better Nutrition (February, 1997): 32-33.
  11. Growdon JH, Gelenberg AJ, Doller J, et al. Lecithin can suppress tardive dyskinesia. N Engl J Med. 1978; 298:1029-1030.
  12. Hanin I, Ansell GB, eds. Lecithin. Technological, Biological and Therapeutic Aspects. New York and London: Plenum Press; 1987.
  13. Hirsch MJ, Growdon JH, Wurtman RJ. Relations between dietary choline or lecithin intake, serum choline levels, and various metabolic indices. Metabolism. 1978; 27:953-960.
  14. Jackson IV, Nuttall EA, Ibe IO, Perez-Cruet J. Treatment of tardive dyskinesia with lecithin. Am J Psychiatry. 1979; 136:1458-1460.
  15. Jenkins PJ, Portmann BP, Eddleston AL, Williams R. Use of polyunsaturated phosphatidylcholine in HBsAg negative chronic active hepatitis: results of prospective double-blind controlled trial. Liver. 1982; 2:7-81.
  16. Kosina F, Budka K, Kolouch Z, et al. Essential cholinephospholipids in the treatment of virus hepatitis. Cas Lek Cesk. 1981; 120:957-960.
  17. LaBell, Fran. "Lecithin: A Source for Vital Choline." Prepared Foods (September, 1997): 79-80.
  18. Lieber CS, De Carl LM, Mak KM, et al. Attenuation of alcohol-induced hepatic fibrosis by polyunsaturated lecithin. Hepatol. 1990; 12:1390-1398.
  19. Lieber CS, Leo MA, Aleynik SI, et al. Alcohol Clin Exp Res. 1997; 21:375-379.
  20. Little A, Levy R, Chuaqui-Kidd P, Hand D. A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of high-dose lecithin in Alzheimer's disease. J Neur Neurosurg Psych. 1985; 48:736-742.

Other

  1. Rafinski, Karen. "Alternatives" The Record (Bergen County, NJ), (April 10, 2000): H5.
  2. Visco G. Polyunsaturated phosphatidylcholine in association with vitamin B complex in the treatment of acute viral hepatitis B. results of a randomized double-blind clinical study. Clin Ter. 1985; 114:183-188.
  3. Wurtman RJ, Hefti F, Melamed E. Precursor control of neurotransmitter synthesis. Pharmac Rev. 1981; 32:315-335.
  4. Wurtman RJ, Hirsch MJ, Growdon JH. Lecithin consumption raises serum-free-choline levels. Lancet. 1977; 2(8028):68-69.
  5. Zupke, Mary Payne and Ira Milner. "Bee Pollen, Shark Cartilage, Ginseng: The Truth about 10 Top Supplements." Environmental Nutrition (September 1993): 1-4.

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