Isotonix® Maximum ORAC Formula

Primary Benefits:

·         High ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity) value

·         Antioxidant

·         Example for oxygen radicals interacting with a large variety of biological molecules is how rust affects the integrity of metals

Key Ingredients: 

Mixed Berry Extracts
Each serving of Isotonix® Maximum ORAC contains 653 mg of berry extracts from high-ORAC value foods, such as elderberry, blueberry and cranberry. These berry extracts contain an assortment of bioflavonoids, organic acids and other polyphenolic compounds that work synergistically to defend against free-radical damage.

Vitamin C
Vitamin C (known as ascorbic acid), an essential nutrient for humans, is needed for metabolic reactions in the body. Foods such as oranges, lemons, grapefruit, strawberries, tomatoes, brussels sprouts, peppers and cantaloupes are good sources of vitamin C. Vitamin C is known for its function as one of the key nutritional antioxidants that protect the body from free-radical damage and cellular strengthening. It is an essential cofactor for the enzymes involved in the synthesis of collagen. Vitamin C is more commonly known for supporting a healthy immune system. The antioxidant function of vitamin C is performed within the aqueous compartments of the blood and inside cells. It has been reported in many studies that vitamin C protects plasma lipids from oxidative damage and also protects DNA and protein from various oxidative processes.

Vitamin E
Since vitamin E is one of the most powerful fat-soluble antioxidants in the body, it helps protect cell membranes from the damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin E has also been found to promote cardiovascular health. Vitamin E is linked to an enhanced immune system function and topical wound healing.

In the News:

Vitamin C Can Boost the Immune System http://allergies.about.com/cs/vitaminc/a/blaaaai030703b.htm by the America Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology)

Nutrients for Healthy Skin: Inside and Out

Vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients can give your skin the youthful glow of good health.

Vitamin Essentials as We Age

As we age, our dietary requirements change, and we're also more focused on the diseases and disorders that accompany aging -- conditions that getting the right nutrients may help to prevent.

Is Vitamin E Good for the Heart?

Antioxidants could help healthy ageing

8/21/2006 – Nutraingredients.com

References:

·         Cao, G., et al. Oxygen-radical absorbance capacity assay for antioxidants. Free Radical Biology and Medicine. 14: 303-11, 1993.

·         Bagchi, D., et al. Anti-angiogenic, antioxidant, and anti-carcinogenic properties of a novel anthocyanin-rich berry extract formula. Biochemistry. 69:95-102, 2004.

·         Bagchi, D., et al. Safety and whole-body antioxidant potential of a novel anthocyanin-rich formulation of edible berries. Mol Cell Biochem. 281:197-209, 2006.

·         Zheng, W., et al. Oxygen radical absorbing capacity of phenolics in blueberries, cranberries, chokeberries, and lingonberries. J Agric Food Chem. 51:502-9, 2003.

·         Cao, G., et al. Increases in human plasma antioxidant capacity after consumption of controlled diets high in fruit and vegetables. Am J Clin Nutr. 68:1081-7, 1998.

·         Mazza, G., et al.  Absorption of anthocyanins from blueberries and serum antioxidant status in human subjects. J Agric Food Chem. 50:7731-7, 2002.

·         Kay, C., et al. The effect of wild blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium) consumption on postprandial serum antioxidant status in human subjects. Br J Nutr. 88:389-98, 2002.

·         Roy, S., et al. Anti-angiogenic property of edible berries. Free Radical Research. 36: 1023-31, 2002.

·         Aviram, M., et al.  Pomegranate juice consumption reduces oxidative stress, atherogenic modifications to LDL, and platelet aggregation: studies in humans and in atherosclerotic apolipoprotein E-deficient mice.  American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.  71:1062-1076, 2000.

·         Youdim, K. A., et al.  Incorporation of elderberry anthocyanins by endothelial cells increases protection against oxidative stress.  Free Radic Biol Medicine.  29:51-60, 2000.

·         Packer, L., et al.  Molecular aspects of alpha-tocotrienol antioxidant action and cell signalling.  Journal of Nutrition.  131:369S-373S, 2001.

·         Reed, J. Cranberry flavonoids, atherosclerosis and cardiovascular health. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 42(3 Suppl):301-16, 2002.  Review.

·         Halvorsen, B., et al. A systematic screening of total antioxidants in dietary plants. J Nutr. 132:461-71, 2002.

·         Maatta, K., et al. Phenolic compounds in berries of black, red, green, and white currants (Ribes sp.). Antioxid Redox Signal. 3:981-93, 2001.

·         Murkovic, M., et al. Effects of elderberry juice on fasting and postprandial serum lipids and low-density lipoprotein oxidation in healthy volunteers: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Eur J Clin Nutr. 58:244-9, 2004.

·         Faria, A., et al. Antioxidant properties of prepared blueberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) extracts. J Agric Food Chem. 53:6896-902, 2005.

·         Joseph, J., et al. Reversing the deleterious effects of aging on neuronal communication and behavior: beneficial properties of fruit polyphenolic compounds. Am J Clin Nutr. 81(1 Suppl):313S-316S, 2005. . Review.

·         Liu, M., et al. Antioxidant and antiproliferative activities of raspberries. J Agric Food Chem. 50:2926-30, 2002.

·         Wang, R., et al. Bioactive compounds from the seeds of Punica granatum (pomegranate). J Nat Prod. 67:2096-8, 2004.

·         Youdim, K., et al. Polyphenolics enhance red blood cell resistance to oxidative stress: in vitro and in vivo. Biochim Biophys Acta. 523:117-22, 2000.

·         Chun, O., et al. Superoxide radical scavenging activity of the major polyphenols in fresh plums. J Agric Food Chem. 51:8067-72, 2003.

·         Stein, J., et al. Purple grape juice improves endothelial function and reduces the susceptibility of LDL cholesterol to oxidation in patients with coronary artery disease. Circulation 100: 1050-5, 1999.

·         Kamal-Eldin, A., et al. The chemistry and antioxidant properties of tocopherols and tocotrienols. Lipids. 31: 671-701, 1996.

·         Hamilton, I., et al.  Interactions between vitamins C and E in human subjects.  British Journal of Nutrition.  84:261-267, 2000.

·         Berry, E., et al. Synergism between vitamins E and C: biological implications for future research. Int J Cancer. 83:288, 1999.

·         Frei, B., et al.  Ascorbate is an outstanding antioxidant in human blood plasma.  Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences USA  86(16):6377-6381, 1989.

·         Wilson, T., et al.  Cranberry extract inhibits low density lipoprotein oxidation.  Life Sciences.  62:381-386, 1998.

·         Aviram, M., et al.  Pomegranate juice flavonoids inhibit low-density lipoprotein oxidation and cardiovascular diseases: studies in atherosclerotic mice and in humans.  Drugs Exp Clin Res.  28:49-62, 2002.

·         Esmaillzadeh, A., et al.  Concentrated pomegranate juice improves lipid profiles in diabetic patients with hyperlipidemia.  J Med Food.  7(3):305-308, 2004.

·         Abuja, P., et al.  Antioxidant and prooxidant activities of elderberry (Sambucus nigra) in low-density lipoprotein oxidation.  J Ag Food Chem.  46:4091-4096, 1998.

·         Ruel, G., et al. Changes in plasma antioxidant capacity and oxidized low-density lipoprotein levels in men after short-term cranberry juice consumption. Metabolism. 54:856-61, 2005.

·         Chu, Y., et al. Cranberries inhibit LDL oxidation and induce LDL receptor expression in hepatocytes. Life Sci. 77:1892-901, 2005.

·         Vuorela, S., et al. Preclinical evaluation of rapeseed, raspberry, and pine bark phenolics for health related effects. J Agric Food Chem. 53:5922-31, 2005.

·         Lau, F., et al. The beneficial effects of fruit polyphenols on brain aging. Neurobiol Aging. 26 Suppl 1:128-32, 2005.

·         Andres-Lacueva, C., et al. Anthocyanins in aged blueberry-fed rats are found centrally and may enhance memory. Nutr Neurosci. 8:111-20, 2005.

·         Galli, R., et al. Blueberry supplemented diet reverses age-related decline in hippocampal HSP70 neuroprotection. Neurobiol Aging. 27:344-50, 2006.

·         Casadesus, G., et al. Modulation of hippocampal plasticity and cognitive behavior by short-term blueberry supplementation in aged rats. Nutr Neurosci. 7:309-16, 2004.

·         Galli, R., et al. Fruit polyphenolics and brain aging: nutritional interventions targeting age-related neuronal and behavioral deficits. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 959:128-32, 2002.  Review.

·         Joseph, J., et al. Reversals of age-related declines in neuronal signal transduction, cognitive, and motor behavioral deficits with blueberry, spinach, or strawberry dietary supplementation. J Neurosci. 19:8114-21, 1999.

·         Hou, D., et al. Potential mechanisms of cancer chemoprevention by anthocyanins. Curr Mol Med. 3:149-59 2003.  Review.

·         Weiss, E., et al.  Cranberry juice constituents affect influenza virus adhesion and infectivity.  Antiviral Res.  66:9-12, 2005.

·         Hope Smith, S., et al. Antimutagenic activity of berry extracts. J Med Food. 7:450-5, 2004.

·         Monograph. Sambucus nigra (elderberry). Altern Med Rev. 10:51-4, 2005.

·         Majeed M., Badmaev, V., and Prakash, L. Bioperine^®. New Jersey: NutriScience Publishers, Inc., 1999.

·         Lambert, J., et al. Piperine enhances the bioavailability of the tea polyphenol (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate in mice. J Nutr. 134:1948-52, 2004.

·         Shoba, G., et al. Influence of piperine on the pharmacokinetics of curcumin in animals and human volunteers. Planta Med. 64:353-6, 1998.

·         Badmaev, V., et al. Piperine derived from black pepper increases the plasma levels of coenzyme Q10 following oral supplementation. J Nutr Biochem. 11:109-13, 2000.

·         Ames, BN, et al.  Oxidants, antioxidants, and the degenerative diseases of aging.  Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 90:7915-7922, 1993.

·         Bagchi, D, et al.  Oxygen free radical scavenging abilities of vitamins C and E, and a grape seed proanthocyanidin extract in vitro.  Res Commun Mol Pathol Pharmacol 95:179-89, 1997.

·         Bagchi, D, et al.  Free radicals and grape seed proanthocyanidin extract: importance in human health and disease prevention.  Toxicology 148: 187-97, 2000.

·         Bagchi, D, et al.  Cellular protection with proanthocyanidins derived from grape seed.  Ann NY Acad Sci 957:260-70, 2002.

·         Drew B, Leeuwenburgh C.  Aging and the role of reactive nitrogen species.  Ann NY Acad Sci 959:66-81, 2002.

·         Gibson, L, et al.  Effectiveness of cranberry juice in preventing urinary tract infections in long-term care facility patients.  J Naturopathic Med 2:45-47, 1991.

·         Graham DY, Smith JL, Bouvet, AA.  What happens to tablets in the stomach.  J Pharm Sci 79:420-24, 1990.

·         Havsteen B.  Flavonoids, a class of natural products of high pharmacological potency.  Biochem Pharm 32:1141-48, 1983.

·         Halpern, MJ, et al.  Red wine polyphenols and inhibition of platelet aggregation: possible mechanisms, and potential use in health promotion and disease prevention.  J Int Med Res 26:171-80, 1998.

·         Joseph JA, Shukitt-Hale B, Denisova NA, Bielinksi D, Martin A, McEwen JJ, Bickford PC.  Reversals of age-related declines in neuronal signal transduction, cognitive, and motor behavioral deficits with blueberry, spinach, or strawberry dietary supplementation.  J Neuroscience 19: 8114-21, 1999.

·         Kehrer JP.  Free radicals as mediators of tissue injury and disease.  Crit Rev Toxicol 23:21-48, 1993.

·         Koch R. Comparative study of Venostatin and Pycnogenol in chronic venous insufficiency.  Phytother Res 16:S1-5, 2002.

·         Koparker AD, Augsburger LL, Shangraw RF.  Intrinsic dissolution rates of tablet fillers and binders and their influence on the dissolution of drugs from tablet formulations.  Pharm Res 7:80-85, 1990.

·         Nesaretnam K, et al.  Effect of tocotrienols on the growth of a human breast cancer cell line in culture.  Lipids 30:1139-43, 1995.

·         Ofek I, Goldhar J, Zafriri D, Lis H, Sharon N.  Anti-Escherichia coli adhesion activity of cranberry and blueberry juices. New England J Med 324:1599, 1991.

·         Qureshi, A, et al.  Response of hypercholesterolemic subjects to administration of tocotrienols.  Lipids 30:1171-77, 1995.

·         Rimbach G, Virgili F, Park YC, Packer L.  Effect of procyanidins from Pinus maritime on glutathione levels in endothelial cells challenged by 3-morpholinosydnonimine or activated macrophages.  Redox Rep 4:171-77, 1999. 

·         Sobota AE.  Inhibition of bacterial adherence by cranberry juice: potential use for the treatment of urinary tract infactions.  J Urology 131:1013-1016, 1984.

·         Soloway MS, Smith RA.  J Am Med Assoc 260:1465, 1988.

·         Tomco, A, et al.  Antioxidant effects of tocotrienol in patients with hyperlipidemia and carotid stenosis.  Lipids 30: 1179-83, 1995.

What Makes This Product Unique?

Absorption and effectiveness of nutritional supplements are two important features to examine when selecting a nutritional supplement. Isotonix® Maximum ORAC Formula contains both. This supplement is in isotonic form, which helps the nutrients to be absorbed into your system quicker. It is usually taken on an empty stomach and when the isotonic fluid enters the body, it is delivered to the small intestine nutritionally concentrated. Then it is naturally absorbed into the blood stream at a rapid pace and little nutritive value is lost. Since the antioxidants are in an isotonic solution, it minimizes the chance that important nutrients will be trapped by fats, fibers and tannins or inactivated by a highly acidic pH level.

Unlike other forms of oral supplementation, Isotonix products are not encapsulated, so there is no need for fillers, binders, coatings, lubricants, disintegrators or artificial coloring. When the product is used correctly, you get the exact same amount of nutrients shown in the desired isotonic state.

A good ORAC supplement should contain high-ORAC value foods, such as blueberries, cranberries and elderberries. The use of natural vitamin E isomers, tocotrienols and tocopherols, and vitamin C in ORAC supplements can contribute to an antioxidant network inside cells, which offers far more protection than using a single agent.  

Maximum ORAC also contains black pepper extract to improve the absorption of antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and possibly other antioxidant molecules into the cells lining the small intestine. Two U.S. federal government health agencies — Centers for Disease Control and the National Cancer Institute — recommend five to nine servings of fruits and vegetables per day. For most individuals, it is difficult to consume this many servings and nutritional supplementation becomes vitally important.

To better understand the beneficial effects of Isotonix Maximum ORAC, we need to understand the role of free radicals in our bodies. Some free-radical activity is necessary as it supplies the biochemical functioning from which our cells produce energy to carry out biological processes. Excessive free-radical activity can produce oxidative stress, resulting in damage to cells. Unfortunately, the environment we live in today creates an overload of free-radical exposure in the form of both oxygen and nitrogen free radicals. This is where the antioxidant capabilities of Isotonix Maximum ORAC in combination of OPCs come into play, creating full-circle free-radical defense. 

The primary site of radical oxygen damage is mitochondrial DNA. Every cell contains an enormous set of molecules called DNA, which provide chemical instructions for a cell to function. This DNA is found in the nucleus of the cell, which serves as the command center of the cell, as well as in the mitochondria. The cell fixes most of the damage done to DNA within the nucleus. However, mitochondrial DNA cannot be readily fixed. Therefore, extensive mitochondrial DNA damage accumulates over time and shuts down mitochondria, causing cells to die and the organism to age. Isotonix Maximum ORAC is a super antioxidant will help to protect mitochondrial DNA from free-radical damage.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is an antioxidant? 

Antioxidant means against oxidation. Antioxidants work to protect lipids from peroxidation by radical elements. Antioxidants are effective because they give up their own electrons to free radicals. When a free radical gains the electron from an antioxidant, it no longer needs to attack a cell and the chain reaction of oxidation is broken. 

Where do free radicals come from?

Simply breathing (respiration), metabolizing food and generating ATP to fuel enzymatic reactions can create free radicals. Free radical damage caused by oxygen-free radicals is created by the following: eating high fat foods, processed foods, food preservatives, ionizing radiation (UV, gamma, X-rays), exercise, stress, pollution, chlorine in drinking water, and tobacco smoke. Maximum ORAC contributes to the body’s ability to counteract oxidation by increasing the levels of antioxidants in the bloodstream, and protecting the other antioxidants that are acquired from our diets and restoring their full antioxidant activity in some cases.

I already take an antioxidant supplement with vitamins A, C and E. Is there an advantage in taking supplements in Isotonix® form?

Yes. When you ingest food, drink, beverages or most nutritional supplements, the stomach must secrete diluting juices, enzymes, hydrochloric acid and at least one vitamin-binding protein to begin the process of digestion. This process can take about 40 minutes, depending on the size of the meal, and it requires both time and energy. The advantage of using Isotonix products are that they are delivered directly into the small intestine nutritionally concentrated. This maximizes the opportunity for absorption of the nutrients across the cell membranes. 

Isotonix products, such as the Isotonix Maximum ORAC, are usually taken on an empty stomach, which considerably shortens the transit time through the body. Since the transit time is shortened, it minimizes the chance that vital micronutrients will be trapped in the body by fats, fibers and tannins, or even inactivated by a highly acidic pH level, which can all lead to neutralization in the nutritional value. The solution flows into the small intestine, where it mixes with pancreatic digestive juices, which adds sodium bicarbonate to adjust the pH to neutral, and in so doing, maximizes the potential uptake of nutrients.

What is the difference in taking an isotonic formula as compared to taking traditional tablets?

Isotonic solutions offer the fastest and most efficient delivery of all oral forms of supplementation. The nutrients in the solutions are quickly and effectively absorbed into the bloodstream, and do not linger in the stomach causing gastrointestinal discomfort. Isotonix products are not encapsulated, so there is no need for them to contain fillers, binders, coatings, lubricants, disintegrators or artificial coloring like there can be in traditional nutrient supplements. 

What does O.R.A.C. stand for?

Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity is an assay that measures the antioxidant activity of a substance. ORAC assays measure how many oxygen radicals a substance can absorb. The higher its ORAC score, the better it is at helping our bodies destroy free radicals.

Has this product been reviewed by the Department of Health (DOH)?

Yes, this product was reviewed by DOH in Hong Kong.

Primary Benefits:

·         High ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity) value

·         Antioxidant

·         Example for oxygen radicals interacting with a large variety of biological molecules is how rust affects the integrity of metals

Key Ingredients: 

Mixed Berry Extracts
Each serving of Isotonix® Maximum ORAC contains 653 mg of berry extracts from high-ORAC value foods, such as elderberry, blueberry and cranberry. These berry extracts contain an assortment of bioflavonoids, organic acids and other polyphenolic compounds that work synergistically to defend against free-radical damage.

Vitamin C
Vitamin C (known as ascorbic acid), an essential nutrient for humans, is needed for metabolic reactions in the body. Foods such as oranges, lemons, grapefruit, strawberries, tomatoes, brussels sprouts, peppers and cantaloupes are good sources of vitamin C. Vitamin C is known for its function as one of the key nutritional antioxidants that protect the body from free-radical damage and cellular strengthening. It is an essential cofactor for the enzymes involved in the synthesis of collagen. Vitamin C is more commonly known for supporting a healthy immune system. The antioxidant function of vitamin C is performed within the aqueous compartments of the blood and inside cells. It has been reported in many studies that vitamin C protects plasma lipids from oxidative damage and also protects DNA and protein from various oxidative processes.

Vitamin E
Since vitamin E is one of the most powerful fat-soluble antioxidants in the body, it helps protect cell membranes from the damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin E has also been found to promote cardiovascular health. Vitamin E is linked to an enhanced immune system function and topical wound healing.

In the News:

Vitamin C Can Boost the Immune System http://allergies.about.com/cs/vitaminc/a/blaaaai030703b.htm by the America Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology)

Nutrients for Healthy Skin: Inside and Out

Vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients can give your skin the youthful glow of good health.

Vitamin Essentials as We Age

As we age, our dietary requirements change, and we're also more focused on the diseases and disorders that accompany aging -- conditions that getting the right nutrients may help to prevent.

Is Vitamin E Good for the Heart?

Antioxidants could help healthy ageing

8/21/2006 – Nutraingredients.com

References:

·         Cao, G., et al. Oxygen-radical absorbance capacity assay for antioxidants. Free Radical Biology and Medicine. 14: 303-11, 1993.

·         Bagchi, D., et al. Anti-angiogenic, antioxidant, and anti-carcinogenic properties of a novel anthocyanin-rich berry extract formula. Biochemistry. 69:95-102, 2004.

·         Bagchi, D., et al. Safety and whole-body antioxidant potential of a novel anthocyanin-rich formulation of edible berries. Mol Cell Biochem. 281:197-209, 2006.

·         Zheng, W., et al. Oxygen radical absorbing capacity of phenolics in blueberries, cranberries, chokeberries, and lingonberries. J Agric Food Chem. 51:502-9, 2003.

·         Cao, G., et al. Increases in human plasma antioxidant capacity after consumption of controlled diets high in fruit and vegetables. Am J Clin Nutr. 68:1081-7, 1998.

·         Mazza, G., et al.  Absorption of anthocyanins from blueberries and serum antioxidant status in human subjects. J Agric Food Chem. 50:7731-7, 2002.

·         Kay, C., et al. The effect of wild blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium) consumption on postprandial serum antioxidant status in human subjects. Br J Nutr. 88:389-98, 2002.

·         Roy, S., et al. Anti-angiogenic property of edible berries. Free Radical Research. 36: 1023-31, 2002.

·         Aviram, M., et al.  Pomegranate juice consumption reduces oxidative stress, atherogenic modifications to LDL, and platelet aggregation: studies in humans and in atherosclerotic apolipoprotein E-deficient mice.  American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.  71:1062-1076, 2000.

·         Youdim, K. A., et al.  Incorporation of elderberry anthocyanins by endothelial cells increases protection against oxidative stress.  Free Radic Biol Medicine.  29:51-60, 2000.

·         Packer, L., et al.  Molecular aspects of alpha-tocotrienol antioxidant action and cell signalling.  Journal of Nutrition.  131:369S-373S, 2001.

·         Reed, J. Cranberry flavonoids, atherosclerosis and cardiovascular health. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 42(3 Suppl):301-16, 2002.  Review.

·         Halvorsen, B., et al. A systematic screening of total antioxidants in dietary plants. J Nutr. 132:461-71, 2002.

·         Maatta, K., et al. Phenolic compounds in berries of black, red, green, and white currants (Ribes sp.). Antioxid Redox Signal. 3:981-93, 2001.

·         Murkovic, M., et al. Effects of elderberry juice on fasting and postprandial serum lipids and low-density lipoprotein oxidation in healthy volunteers: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Eur J Clin Nutr. 58:244-9, 2004.

·         Faria, A., et al. Antioxidant properties of prepared blueberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) extracts. J Agric Food Chem. 53:6896-902, 2005.

·         Joseph, J., et al. Reversing the deleterious effects of aging on neuronal communication and behavior: beneficial properties of fruit polyphenolic compounds. Am J Clin Nutr. 81(1 Suppl):313S-316S, 2005. . Review.

·         Liu, M., et al. Antioxidant and antiproliferative activities of raspberries. J Agric Food Chem. 50:2926-30, 2002.

·         Wang, R., et al. Bioactive compounds from the seeds of Punica granatum (pomegranate). J Nat Prod. 67:2096-8, 2004.

·         Youdim, K., et al. Polyphenolics enhance red blood cell resistance to oxidative stress: in vitro and in vivo. Biochim Biophys Acta. 523:117-22, 2000.

·         Chun, O., et al. Superoxide radical scavenging activity of the major polyphenols in fresh plums. J Agric Food Chem. 51:8067-72, 2003.

·         Stein, J., et al. Purple grape juice improves endothelial function and reduces the susceptibility of LDL cholesterol to oxidation in patients with coronary artery disease. Circulation 100: 1050-5, 1999.

·         Kamal-Eldin, A., et al. The chemistry and antioxidant properties of tocopherols and tocotrienols. Lipids. 31: 671-701, 1996.

·         Hamilton, I., et al.  Interactions between vitamins C and E in human subjects.  British Journal of Nutrition.  84:261-267, 2000.

·         Berry, E., et al. Synergism between vitamins E and C: biological implications for future research. Int J Cancer. 83:288, 1999.

·         Frei, B., et al.  Ascorbate is an outstanding antioxidant in human blood plasma.  Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences USA  86(16):6377-6381, 1989.

·         Wilson, T., et al.  Cranberry extract inhibits low density lipoprotein oxidation.  Life Sciences.  62:381-386, 1998.

·         Aviram, M., et al.  Pomegranate juice flavonoids inhibit low-density lipoprotein oxidation and cardiovascular diseases: studies in atherosclerotic mice and in humans.  Drugs Exp Clin Res.  28:49-62, 2002.

·         Esmaillzadeh, A., et al.  Concentrated pomegranate juice improves lipid profiles in diabetic patients with hyperlipidemia.  J Med Food.  7(3):305-308, 2004.

·         Abuja, P., et al.  Antioxidant and prooxidant activities of elderberry (Sambucus nigra) in low-density lipoprotein oxidation.  J Ag Food Chem.  46:4091-4096, 1998.

·         Ruel, G., et al. Changes in plasma antioxidant capacity and oxidized low-density lipoprotein levels in men after short-term cranberry juice consumption. Metabolism. 54:856-61, 2005.

·         Chu, Y., et al. Cranberries inhibit LDL oxidation and induce LDL receptor expression in hepatocytes. Life Sci. 77:1892-901, 2005.

·         Vuorela, S., et al. Preclinical evaluation of rapeseed, raspberry, and pine bark phenolics for health related effects. J Agric Food Chem. 53:5922-31, 2005.

·         Lau, F., et al. The beneficial effects of fruit polyphenols on brain aging. Neurobiol Aging. 26 Suppl 1:128-32, 2005.

·         Andres-Lacueva, C., et al. Anthocyanins in aged blueberry-fed rats are found centrally and may enhance memory. Nutr Neurosci. 8:111-20, 2005.

·         Galli, R., et al. Blueberry supplemented diet reverses age-related decline in hippocampal HSP70 neuroprotection. Neurobiol Aging. 27:344-50, 2006.

·         Casadesus, G., et al. Modulation of hippocampal plasticity and cognitive behavior by short-term blueberry supplementation in aged rats. Nutr Neurosci. 7:309-16, 2004.

·         Galli, R., et al. Fruit polyphenolics and brain aging: nutritional interventions targeting age-related neuronal and behavioral deficits. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 959:128-32, 2002.  Review.

·         Joseph, J., et al. Reversals of age-related declines in neuronal signal transduction, cognitive, and motor behavioral deficits with blueberry, spinach, or strawberry dietary supplementation. J Neurosci. 19:8114-21, 1999.

·         Hou, D., et al. Potential mechanisms of cancer chemoprevention by anthocyanins. Curr Mol Med. 3:149-59 2003.  Review.

·         Weiss, E., et al.  Cranberry juice constituents affect influenza virus adhesion and infectivity.  Antiviral Res.  66:9-12, 2005.

·         Hope Smith, S., et al. Antimutagenic activity of berry extracts. J Med Food. 7:450-5, 2004.

·         Monograph. Sambucus nigra (elderberry). Altern Med Rev. 10:51-4, 2005.

·         Majeed M., Badmaev, V., and Prakash, L. Bioperine^®. New Jersey: NutriScience Publishers, Inc., 1999.

·         Lambert, J., et al. Piperine enhances the bioavailability of the tea polyphenol (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate in mice. J Nutr. 134:1948-52, 2004.

·         Shoba, G., et al. Influence of piperine on the pharmacokinetics of curcumin in animals and human volunteers. Planta Med. 64:353-6, 1998.

·         Badmaev, V., et al. Piperine derived from black pepper increases the plasma levels of coenzyme Q10 following oral supplementation. J Nutr Biochem. 11:109-13, 2000.

·         Ames, BN, et al.  Oxidants, antioxidants, and the degenerative diseases of aging.  Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 90:7915-7922, 1993.

·         Bagchi, D, et al.  Oxygen free radical scavenging abilities of vitamins C and E, and a grape seed proanthocyanidin extract in vitro.  Res Commun Mol Pathol Pharmacol 95:179-89, 1997.

·         Bagchi, D, et al.  Free radicals and grape seed proanthocyanidin extract: importance in human health and disease prevention.  Toxicology 148: 187-97, 2000.

·         Bagchi, D, et al.  Cellular protection with proanthocyanidins derived from grape seed.  Ann NY Acad Sci 957:260-70, 2002.

·         Drew B, Leeuwenburgh C.  Aging and the role of reactive nitrogen species.  Ann NY Acad Sci 959:66-81, 2002.

·         Gibson, L, et al.  Effectiveness of cranberry juice in preventing urinary tract infections in long-term care facility patients.  J Naturopathic Med 2:45-47, 1991.

·         Graham DY, Smith JL, Bouvet, AA.  What happens to tablets in the stomach.  J Pharm Sci 79:420-24, 1990.

·         Havsteen B.  Flavonoids, a class of natural products of high pharmacological potency.  Biochem Pharm 32:1141-48, 1983.

·         Halpern, MJ, et al.  Red wine polyphenols and inhibition of platelet aggregation: possible mechanisms, and potential use in health promotion and disease prevention.  J Int Med Res 26:171-80, 1998.

·         Joseph JA, Shukitt-Hale B, Denisova NA, Bielinksi D, Martin A, McEwen JJ, Bickford PC.  Reversals of age-related declines in neuronal signal transduction, cognitive, and motor behavioral deficits with blueberry, spinach, or strawberry dietary supplementation.  J Neuroscience 19: 8114-21, 1999.

·         Kehrer JP.  Free radicals as mediators of tissue injury and disease.  Crit Rev Toxicol 23:21-48, 1993.

·         Koch R. Comparative study of Venostatin and Pycnogenol in chronic venous insufficiency.  Phytother Res 16:S1-5, 2002.

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What Makes This Product Unique?

Absorption and effectiveness of nutritional supplements are two important features to examine when selecting a nutritional supplement. Isotonix® Maximum ORAC Formula contains both. This supplement is in isotonic form, which helps the nutrients to be absorbed into your system quicker. It is usually taken on an empty stomach and when the isotonic fluid enters the body, it is delivered to the small intestine nutritionally concentrated. Then it is naturally absorbed into the blood stream at a rapid pace and little nutritive value is lost. Since the antioxidants are in an isotonic solution, it minimizes the chance that important nutrients will be trapped by fats, fibers and tannins or inactivated by a highly acidic pH level.

Unlike other forms of oral supplementation, Isotonix products are not encapsulated, so there is no need for fillers, binders, coatings, lubricants, disintegrators or artificial coloring. When the product is used correctly, you get the exact same amount of nutrients shown in the desired isotonic state.

A good ORAC supplement should contain high-ORAC value foods, such as blueberries, cranberries and elderberries. The use of natural vitamin E isomers, tocotrienols and tocopherols, and vitamin C in ORAC supplements can contribute to an antioxidant network inside cells, which offers far more protection than using a single agent.  

Maximum ORAC also contains black pepper extract to improve the absorption of antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and possibly other antioxidant molecules into the cells lining the small intestine. Two U.S. federal government health agencies — Centers for Disease Control and the National Cancer Institute — recommend five to nine servings of fruits and vegetables per day. For most individuals, it is difficult to consume this many servings and nutritional supplementation becomes vitally important.

To better understand the beneficial effects of Isotonix Maximum ORAC, we need to understand the role of free radicals in our bodies. Some free-radical activity is necessary as it supplies the biochemical functioning from which our cells produce energy to carry out biological processes. Excessive free-radical activity can produce oxidative stress, resulting in damage to cells. Unfortunately, the environment we live in today creates an overload of free-radical exposure in the form of both oxygen and nitrogen free radicals. This is where the antioxidant capabilities of Isotonix Maximum ORAC in combination of OPCs come into play, creating full-circle free-radical defense. 

The primary site of radical oxygen damage is mitochondrial DNA. Every cell contains an enormous set of molecules called DNA, which provide chemical instructions for a cell to function. This DNA is found in the nucleus of the cell, which serves as the command center of the cell, as well as in the mitochondria. The cell fixes most of the damage done to DNA within the nucleus. However, mitochondrial DNA cannot be readily fixed. Therefore, extensive mitochondrial DNA damage accumulates over time and shuts down mitochondria, causing cells to die and the organism to age. Isotonix Maximum ORAC is a super antioxidant will help to protect mitochondrial DNA from free-radical damage.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is an antioxidant? 

Antioxidant means against oxidation. Antioxidants work to protect lipids from peroxidation by radical elements. Antioxidants are effective because they give up their own electrons to free radicals. When a free radical gains the electron from an antioxidant, it no longer needs to attack a cell and the chain reaction of oxidation is broken. 

Where do free radicals come from?

Simply breathing (respiration), metabolizing food and generating ATP to fuel enzymatic reactions can create free radicals. Free radical damage caused by oxygen-free radicals is created by the following: eating high fat foods, processed foods, food preservatives, ionizing radiation (UV, gamma, X-rays), exercise, stress, pollution, chlorine in drinking water, and tobacco smoke. Maximum ORAC contributes to the body’s ability to counteract oxidation by increasing the levels of antioxidants in the bloodstream, and protecting the other antioxidants that are acquired from our diets and restoring their full antioxidant activity in some cases.

I already take an antioxidant supplement with vitamins A, C and E. Is there an advantage in taking supplements in Isotonix® form?

Yes. When you ingest food, drink, beverages or most nutritional supplements, the stomach must secrete diluting juices, enzymes, hydrochloric acid and at least one vitamin-binding protein to begin the process of digestion. This process can take about 40 minutes, depending on the size of the meal, and it requires both time and energy. The advantage of using Isotonix products are that they are delivered directly into the small intestine nutritionally concentrated. This maximizes the opportunity for absorption of the nutrients across the cell membranes. 

Isotonix products, such as the Isotonix Maximum ORAC, are usually taken on an empty stomach, which considerably shortens the transit time through the body. Since the transit time is shortened, it minimizes the chance that vital micronutrients will be trapped in the body by fats, fibers and tannins, or even inactivated by a highly acidic pH level, which can all lead to neutralization in the nutritional value. The solution flows into the small intestine, where it mixes with pancreatic digestive juices, which adds sodium bicarbonate to adjust the pH to neutral, and in so doing, maximizes the potential uptake of nutrients.

What is the difference in taking an isotonic formula as compared to taking traditional tablets?

Isotonic solutions offer the fastest and most efficient delivery of all oral forms of supplementation. The nutrients in the solutions are quickly and effectively absorbed into the bloodstream, and do not linger in the stomach causing gastrointestinal discomfort. Isotonix products are not encapsulated, so there is no need for them to contain fillers, binders, coatings, lubricants, disintegrators or artificial coloring like there can be in traditional nutrient supplements. 

What does O.R.A.C. stand for?

Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity is an assay that measures the antioxidant activity of a substance. ORAC assays measure how many oxygen radicals a substance can absorb. The higher its ORAC score, the better it is at helping our bodies destroy free radicals.

Has this product been reviewed by the Department of Health (DOH)?

Yes, this product was reviewed by DOH in Hong Kong.