Essential Multivitamin for Men is a comprehensive, hypo-allergenic, multivitamin and mineral blend. As a complete multivitamin, Essential Multivitamin for Men provides high-quality nutrients to build a healthy micronutrient reserve. USP* B vitamins support energy production and folate (as Quatrefolic™ - 100% 5-MTHF), the biologically active form of folic acid, improves methylation. Albion® TRAACS® chelated mineral complexes enhance bioavailability. Essential Multivitamin for Men includes an optimal 2:1 magnesium to calcium ratio. Key antioxidant vitamin C, natural vitamin E mixed tocopherols and carotenoids protect cells from free radical damage. Essential Multivitamin for Men also contains the synergistic blend of vitamin K2 (as MK-7) and D3 which are critical for supporting bone strength and cardiovascular health.
Overview
It is well-established that good nutrition promotes health, while nutritional deficiencies can lead to many health challenges. Yet, many people underestimate the importance of achieving proper levels of micronutrients each day. For the human body to complete vital daily tasks, it must be given a wide and complex variety of key micronutrients. Micronutrients play a role in strengthening immune function and converting food into energy. They detoxify chemicals and medications, and manufacture neurotransmitters, hormones and other key signaling molecules in the body. Micronutrients also maintain tissue repair and cell regeneration. Becoming deficient in any one of these essential vitamins or minerals can create a breakdown metabolic processes that safeguard health.
Comprehensive studies conducted by the United States Department of Agriculture have revealed the average American diet lacks micronutrients. Nutritional deficiencies may be caused by poor nutrient levels in the soil, food transport and storage methods, and food processing techniques. In addition, deficiencies can also be caused by highly processed and refined foods, food additives, medications, alcohol consumption, smoking, heavy metal exposure and high stress levels. Whatever the reason, nutrient deficiencies exist in a substantial portion of the U.S. population and, for select nutrients, more than 80% of Americans consume less than the recommended daily allowance (RDA).1,2 Although recommended nutrient intakes (e.g., %DV, DRIs, EARs, RDAs) have been established as minimum guidelines for healthy individuals, these guidelines were not designed to address the micronutrient needs of all individuals, especially those with chronic health concerns. While these guidelines can help prevent a severe nutrient deficiency, standards such as the RDA are not a reflection of optimal daily intake. For these reasons, a daily multivitamin is a prudent choice for most individuals. Essential Multivitamin for Men is a superior multivitamin designed to support the ideal daily intake of vitamins and minerals by providing a high-quality source of nutrients in the most bioavailable form.
Bioavailability†
The importance of bioavailability is obvious. If consuming a multivitamin has little effect on improving the body’s nutrient balance, there is no reason to ingest it. Inferior multivitamin supplements often contain synthetic vitamin E in a dl-tocopherol form. Essential Multivitamin for Men contains natural d-alpha tocopherol, as well as mixed tocopherols, to enhance vitamin E availability and its free radical scavenging potential.3 Another sign of an inferior multivitamin is the use of cheap, poorly-absorbed, rock-salt minerals like calcium carbonate and carbonate) or diarrhea (magnesium oxide). These mineral forms have slow and limited absorption relying on adequate stomach acid to promote passive diffusion into the body. What’s more, because they remain in the intestines longer, these forms can cause intestinal distress such as constipation (calcium carbonate) or diarrhea (magnesium oxide). Essential Multivitamin for Men provides a full spectrum of highly absorbed, Albion® mineral chelates. Albion® is the world leader in manufacturing highly bioavailable mineral chelates, a specialized form of minerals bound to amino acids. This patented process creates natural mineral compounds which use active absorption mechanisms in the gastrointestinal tract to significantly enhance mineral absorption. Comparison studies show significantly superior absorption of mineral chelates over other forms of minerals. In a magnesium comparison study reported by Graff et al. at Weber State University, Albion’s® magnesium amino acid chelate had (See Figure 1): 3 • 8.8 times greater absorption than magnesium oxide • 5.6 times greater absorption than magnesium sulfate • 2.3 times greater absorption than magnesium carbonateIn a clinical study comparing calcium absorption in humans, Albion’s® patented calcium chelate delivered the greatest absorption of all calcium sources tested (44% Absorption - See Figure 2).4In addition, mineral chelates are gentle, gut-friendly minerals that do not cause the constipation that often accompanies calcium carbonate and other mineral forms. Albion’s® mineral chelates have extensive clinical research proving their superior bioavailability, biologic activity, stability and tolerance.
Metabolism & Energy Production†
Converting food into cellular energy is a nutrient-intensive process. Essential Multivitamin for Men provides substantial levels of B vitamins, which are prime coenzymes for the Kreb’s cycle, the biochemical pathway responsible for maintaining energy production in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate). Essential Multivitamin for Men exclusively uses high-quality, USP* grade B vitamins ideal for those looking to boost their energy levels and support stressful lifestyles. Essential Multivitamin for Men also contains the bioavailable form of folate (Quatrefolic™ - 100% 5-MTHF). 5-MTHF helps promote DNA repair, homocysteine balance, neurotransmitter production, hormone balance and healthy detoxification.
Broad Spectrum Antioxidant Support†
The body is constantly exposed to free radicals and relies heavily on its antioxidant reserve for protection. Free radicals are generated by metabolic by-products and environmental exposure such as UV rays from the sun, air pollution and radiation. Essential Multivitamin for Men contains a balanced spectrum of antioxidant vitamins such as vitamin C, mixed carotenoids, trace elements and nutrients that up-regulate antioxidant-supporting pathways in the body. They work synergistically to regenerate each other and maintain adequate levels of protective antioxidants throughout the body. *The USP is a scientific organization that sets standards for the identity, strength, quality and purity of medicines, food ingredients and dietary supplements, manufactured, distributed and consumed worldwide.
Directions 4 capsules per day with food or as recommended by your health care professional.
Does Not Contain Gluten, yeast, artificial colors or flavors.
Cautions If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your physician before taking this product.
References
1.Block G, et al. Vitamin supplement use by demographic characteristics. Am J Epidemiol 1988;127:297-309. 2. National Research Council, Diet and Health: Implications for Reducing Chronic Disease Risk (Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 1989). 3. Devaraj S, Leonard S, Traber MG, et al. Gamma-tocopherol supplementation alone or in combination with alpha-tocopherol alters biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation in subjects with metabolic syndrome. Free Radica Biol Med 2008;44:1203-1208. 4. Graff et al. Magnesium: wide spread benefits. Albion Research Notes 1992; 1(2):1. 5. Calcium: Heaney RP, Recker RR, Weaver CM. Absorbability of calcium sources: the limited role of solubility. Calcif Tissue Int 1990 May;46(5):300-4.
Research
Overview
The body’s cells and organ systems depend on an adequate supply of energy to function optimally. The mitochondria, known as the power house of the cell, contain nutrients and enzymes that are important for recharging cellular energy production. Some of these enzymes convert food to usable energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP functions as the key source of energy for all cells. In order to increase mitochondrial output, there must be adequate fuel supply for combustion and abundant antioxidants to scavenge free radical by-products. Preserving energy reserves and increasing energy output is a critical part of maintaining optimal health.
Lack of sleep, too much stress, poor nutrition and prescription medications can draw on energy reserves, using them up faster than they can be replenished. Even the vital biologic systems can create an energy deficit that needs to be restored. Some of the most energy demanding systems in the body are:
• Liver detoxification
• Immune function
• Cardiovascular function
• Neurologic function Complete
Protein is scientifically formulated, based on published research, to boost mitochondrial reserves and recharge cellular energy production.1 Complete Protein includes the powerful antioxidant trio of alpha lipoic acid, N-acetyl cysteine and acetyl
L- carnitine, all shown to recharge cellular energy production and the primary cellular antioxidant pools of vitamins E and C and glutathione. Acetyl L-Carnitine† Acetyl L-carnitine (ALC) is an amino acid that is associated recharged cellular energy production. It has been shown to increase the flow of free fatty acids, the fuel source for mitochondria, resulting in a significant boost in energy production. With age, free radical production increases oxidative damage to the mitochondria, which can potentially decrease energy production. ALC has been shown to recharge cellular energy production and has been found, in combination with lipoic acid, to lower oxidative stress. 2,3 Studies have also shown that ALC supports immune function by protecting CD4 and CD8 immune cells and by supporting the reproduction of lymphocytes for the identification and elimination of invading antigens.4,5 N-Acetyl Cysteine† N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is an antioxidant that scavenges free radicals and supports detoxification capacity.6 NAC has been shown to increase production of glutathione, an important antioxidant found in the body.6 In addition to its antioxidant activity, glutathione supports immune function by activating T-cells.7
Alpha Lipoic Acid†
Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is an antioxidant and also plays a synergistic role in recharging other antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, CoQ10 and glutathione. Lipoic acid also plays a key role in supporting detoxification capacity.8 Studies have shown that a combination of ALA and ALC helps minimize oxidative damage.9,10 Oxidative stress causes damage to DNA, RNA, proteins, mitochondrial membranes and lipids, and contributes to the functional decline of mitochondria, cells, tissues and eventually organs such as the brain. 9,10
Resveratrol†
Resveratrol is a polyphenol molecule found in many plant species, including grapes and cranberries, and is found in high concentrations in wine. Polyphenols act as antioxidants that protect plants from damage that can be caused by bacteria, fungi and radiation.11 Resveratrol is believed to be the dietary factor behind the “French Paradox,” which is the high rate of cardiovascular wellness in the French population, despite their high fat intake. In addition to its antioxidant properties and support for cardiovascular function, resveratrol has been shown to support immune function.11
Broccoli Seed Extract†
Broccoli seed extract contains a high amount of glucoraphanin, a compound that is a precursor to sulphoraphane. Sulphoraphane is an antioxidant and supports detoxification capacity and immune response. Sulphoraphane has been shown to induce Phase II detoxification enzymes and raise intracellular glutathione levels.12
Green Tea (EGCG)†
Green tea polyphenols have demonstrated significant antioxidant, probiotic- and immune-supporting properties. [13] The hydroxyl group of green tea polyphenols increases antioxidant protection by forming complexes with free radicals and neutralizing them, minimizing oxidative damage throughout the body. Green tea polyphenols also stimulate the activity of liver detoxification enzymes, supporting detoxification capacity.13
The Micronutrient “Backbone” †
To recharge cellular energy production efficiently, optimal levels of critical nutrients and enzyme cofactors must be achieved. Complete Protein provides an optimized backbone of vitamins and minerals necessary for increasing energy output and meeting daily nutritional needs.
Rice Protein†
Rice protein is a valuable source of branched chain amino acids leucine, isoleucine and valine. These amino acids reduce the breakdown of protein and stimulate protein synthesis. In animal studies, rice protein was shown to support heart function, healthy cholesterol levels and insulin sensitivity, reducing the negative impact of the Western diet fed to these animals.14-16 Directions Mix 1 scoop of Complete Protein with 8-10 ounces of the beverage of your choice to the desired thickness, once daily or as recommended by your health care professional. Does Not Contain Gluten, yeast, artificial colors and flavors. Cautions If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your physician before taking this product.
References
1. Connor WE. Importance of n-3 fatty acids in health and disease. Am J Clin Nutr. 2000 Jan;71(1 Suppl):171S-5S. 2. http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/GettingHealthy/NutritionCenter/HealthyDietGoals/Fish-and-Omega-3-Fatty-Acids_ UCM_303248_Article.jsp 3. Yang LY, Kuksis A, Myher JJ. Lipolysis of menhaden oil triacylglycerols and the corresponding fatty acid alkyl esters by pancreatic lipase in vitro: a reexamination. J Lipid Res. 1990 Jan;31(1):137-47. 4. Dyerberg J, Madsen P, Møller JM, Aardestrup I, Schmidt EB. Bioavailability of marine n-3 fatty acid formulations. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2010 Sep;83(3):137-41.) 5. http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/supplement/omega3-fatty-acids 6. Dietary supplementation with n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E after myocardial infarction: results of the GISSI-Prevenzione trial. Gruppo Italiano per lo Studio della Sopravvivenza nell’Infarto miocardico. [No authors listed] 7. Roche HM, Gibney MJ. Effect of long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on fasting and postprandial triacylglycerol metabolism. Am J Clin Nutr. 2000 Jan;71(1 Suppl):232S-7S. 8. Morris MC, Sacks F, Rosner B. Does fish oil lower blood pressure? A meta-analysis of controlled trials. Circulation. 1993 Aug;88(2):523-33. 9. Nettleton JA, Katz R. n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in type 2 diabetes: a review. J Am Diet Assoc. 2005 Mar;105(3):428-40. ScienceVoice Consulting, Denver, CO 80205, USA.10. Frangou S, Lewis M, McCrone P. Efficacy of ethyl-eicosapentaenoic acid in bipolar depression: randomised double-blind placebo-controlled study. Br J Psychiatry. 2006 Jan;188:46-50. 11. Montgomery P, Burton JR, Sewell RP, Spreckelsen TF, Richardson AJ. Low Blood Long Chain Omega-3 Fatty Acids in UK Children Are Associated with Poor Cognitive Performance and Behavior: A Cross-Sectional Analysis from the DOLAB Study. PLoS One. 2013 Jun 24;8(6):e66697. 12. Maroon JC, Bost JW. Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) as an anti-inflammatory: an alternative to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for discogenic pain. Surg Neurol. 2006 Apr;65(4):326-31. 13. Jacques C, Levy E, Muckle G, Jacobson SW, Bastien C, Dewailly E, Ayotte P, Jacobson JL, Saint-Amour D.J. Long-term effects of prenatal omega-3 fatty acid intake on visual function in school-age children. Pediatr. 2011 Jan;158(1):83-90, 90.e1. 14. Augood C, Chakravarthy U, Young I, Vioque J, de Jong PT, Bentham G, Rahu M, Seland J, Soubrane G, Tomazzoli L, Topouzis F, Vingerling JR, Fletcher AE. Oily fish consumption, dietary docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid intakes, and associations with neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Am J Clin Nutr. 2008 Aug;88(2):398-406.
References
1. Kaiser JD, Campa AM, Ondercin JP, Leoung GS, Pless RF, Baum MK. Micronutrient supplementation increases CD4 count in HIV-infected individuals on highly active antiretroviral therapy: a prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2006; 42(5): 523-528. 2. Shigenaga M K, Hagen T M,et al. Oxidative damage and mitochondrial decay in aging. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 1994; 91(23):1077110778. 3. Hagen, TM, Liu J, et al. Feeding acetyl-L-carnitine and lipoic acid to old rats significantly improves metabolic function while decreasing oxidative stress. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2002; 99(4):18701875. 4. Di Marzio L, Moretti S, et al. Acetyl-L-carnitine administration increases insulin-like growth factor 1 levels in asymptomatic HIV-1-infected subjects: correlation with its suppressive effect on lymphocyte apoptosis and ceramide generation. Clin Immunol 1999; 92(1):103-110.ysis of the related nutritional supplements dimethyl sulfoxide and methysulfonylmethane in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee. 5. Deufel, T. Determination of L-carnitine in biological fluids and tissues. J Clin Chem Clin Biochem 1990; 28(5):307-311. 6. N-Acetylcysteine. Altern Med Rev 2000; 5(5):467-471. 7. Patrick, L. Nutrients and HIV: part three - N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid, L-glutamine, and L-carnitine. Altern Med Rev 2000; 5(4):290-305. 8. Alpha-lipoic acid. Monograph. Altern Med Rev 2006; 11(3):232-237. 9. Ames, B. N. Optimal micronutrients delay mitochondrial decay and age-associated diseases. Mech Ageing Dev 2010; 131(7-8):473-479. 10. Ames, B. N. and Liu, J. Delaying the mitochondrial decay of aging with acetylcarnitine. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2004; 1033:108-116. 11. Resveratrol: Monograph. Altern Med Review 2010; 15(12):152-158. 12. Fahey JW, Talalay P. Antioxidant functions of sulphoraphane: a potent inducer of phase II detoxification enzymes. Food Chem Tox 1999:37:973-979. 13. Green Tea. Altern Med Review 2000; 5(4):372-5. 14. Ni W, Tsuda Y, Takashima S, Sato H, Sato M, Imaizumi K. Anti-atherogenic effect of soya and rice-protein isolate, compared with casein, in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice. Br J Nutr. Jul 2003; 90(1):13-20. 15. Ronis MJ, Chen Y, Bradeaux J, Shankar K, Badger TM. Diets containing soy or rice protein isolate (SPI, RPI) increase insulin sensitivity and improve lipid homeostasis in weanling rats fed high fat, high cholesterol Western diets as a result of activation of PPAR and LXR-mediated pathways. The FASEB Journal. 2008; 22:892.892. 16. Ronis MJ, Badeaux J, Chen Y, Badger TM. Rice protein isolate improves lipid and glucose homeostasis in rats fed high fat/high cholesterol diets. Exp Biol Med (Maywood). Sep 2010; 235(9):1102-1113.
Research
Omega-3 Fish Oil is a high-concentration fish oil sourced from waters off the Chilean coast. As the world’s least industrialized coastline, these cold, fresh waters provide the cleanest, most sustainable source of fish in the world. Orthomega® provides 820 mg of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and docosapentaenoic acid (DPA) per soft gel as re-esterified triglycerides, the preferred form with superior absorption. Vitamin E (as mixed tocopherols) and rosemary extract are used to ensure maximum purity and freshness. This exclusive fish oil is purified, vacuum-distilled and independently tested to ensure heavy metals, pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are removed to undetectable levels. Extensive research has shown that EPA, DHA and DPA from fish oil enhance cardiovascular health, promote better brain function, and support healthy skin, joints and connective tissues. With over 10,000 published studies in the last three decades, EPA and DHA from fish oil are among the most researched natural ingredients available and have a long history of safety and efficacy.
Overview
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential cornerstones of human nutrition. They are deemed “essential” because we need them for proper health, but cannot produce them on our own. We must therefore consume these fats through diet or supplementation. Omega-3 fatty acids are required for a number of body functions, from proper blood flow to brain development. These long chain fatty acids are integral components of tissues and organ systems throughout the body, including the heart, skin, joints, eyes and immune system. In nature, omega-3s occur as alpha linolenic acid (ALA), found mostly in plants, and as long-chain EPA, DHA and DPA which are primarily consumed from coldwater fish. The body is able to slowly convert the shorter chain ALA to the more active long-chain, EPA, DHA and DPA, making a higher dietary intake necessary. In addition, major changes in modern diet over the last century have led to a decrease in the general consumption of omega-3 fatty acids. Since omega-3 fatty acids are known to benefit cardiovascular health, support healthy brain function and cognition, and have also been proven to maintain normal inflammatory balance, achieving the proper balance of omega-3s has become an important health strategy, requiring supplementation for most people.1 The American Heart Association recommends that those concerned about blood lipids take up to 4 g of omega-3 fatty acids per day.2
Fish Oil Delivery - Triglycerides vs. Ethyl Esters†
While the amount of EPA, DHA and DPA provided in a fish oil product is important for efficacy, the type of fish oil delivered is another significant factor in defining fish oil effectiveness. The human body is accustomed to digesting and absorbing EPA, DHA and DPA in the triglyceride form. Even though triglyceride-based fish oils are the preferred form for superior fish oil absorption, the vast majority of fish oil products available on the market are in the ethyl ester form. While ethyl esters allow for higher concentrations of EPA and DHA to be achieved, their unusual structure is resistant to the digestive enzymes (lipases) that enable fat breakdown. In a study comparing EPA and DHA digestion in both the natural triglyceride and ethyl ester form, five common digestive lipase enzymes were shown to more readily digest fish oil in the natural triglyceride as compared to the ethyl ester substrate.A recent study, conducted by fish oil research pioneer Dr. Jorn Dyerberg, demonstrated that omega-3s in the reesterified triglyceride form are more efficiently digested and therefore 70% more absorbable than omega-3s in the ethyl ester form.4\
Omega-3 Depletion† An accumulating body of research shows that the typical Westernized diet does not provide a sufficient amount of omega-3s for optimal health. Additionally, insufficient conversion of ALA to the active EPA and DHA may reduce the amount available for use in organs and tissues. Symptoms of omega-3 deficiency are common and often overlooked. These may include dry, itchy or flaky skin, poor sleep quality, poor circulation, eye discomfort, and mood imbalance.5 Most of the studies over the past three decades have focused on EPA and DHA. In recent years, however, research has looked at DPA, the intermediate between EPA and DHA and the role it plays in our health. DPA collects in a variety of tissues including the liver, breast, brain, eyes, heart and red blood cells and is the intermediate between EPA and DPA. This, combined with the retroconversion of DHA back to EPA, suggests that DPA may be a reservoir for both EPA and DHA, thus increasing the storage of EPA, DHA and DPA and in turn, the beneficial healthy effects, of omega 3 fatty acids. The roles associated with DHA and EPA in supporting metabolic processes, neurological development, and maintaining inflammatory balance may, in part, be attributed to DPA. Each soft gel of Orthomega 820 contains 50mg of DPA.Cardiovascular and Blood Sugar Health† Omega-3 fatty acids have long been known to benefit cardiovascular health. The well-known GISSI-Prevezione trial found that just 1 g a day of omega-3 fatty acids had a significant impact on cardiovascular health after three to four months of consumption.6 EPA, DHA and DPA have been shown to modulate levels of fat in the blood,7 and a meta-analysis of 31 placebo-controlled trials found that for each gram of omega- 3s consumed, there was improved support for healthy blood pressure levels already within the normal range.8 Population studies have also reported that omega-3 fatty acids support better blood sugar balance in populations consuming large amounts of the n-3 long-chain PUFAs.9 Additional Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids† In addition to their well-known cardiovascular benefits, omega-3 fatty acids play a central role in brain development, mood enhancement, improved cognition, joint comfort and visual acuity. Mood Enhancement† A double-blind study, which randomly assigned participants with low mood to either placebo, 1 g/day or 2 g/day of EPA, found significant improvement with EPA compared with placebo in balancing mood.10 Increased Mental Focus † In a recent British study, omega-3 blood levels were shown to be directly related to improved measures of cognition, performance and behavior among healthy children with below-average reading ability.11
Joint Comfort †
A dose of 1,200 mg per day of omega-3 essential fatty acids were found to improve back and joint discomfort from exercise or overexertion among 125 people, with 88% choosing to continue supplementation after the study’s end.12 Fish oil has also been shown to improve similarly tender joints and morning stiffness after three months of consumption.
Visual Acuity †
A study evaluating the long-term effects of EPA and DHA on visual development in 136 school-age Inuit children exposed to high levels of n-3 PUFAs during gestation, found beneficial effects of DHA intake on visual acuity.13 Eating oily fish at least once per week compared with less than once per week was also found to enhance visual clarity and help support healthy macular aging.14
Directions 2 times per day with food or as recommended by your health care professional.
Does Not Contain Wheat, gluten, dairy, peanuts, tree nuts, egg, artificial colors, sweeteners or preservatives
Cautions If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your physician before taking this product.
