Real Nutrition, Real Results

β-Carotene (Food-state)

β-Carotene is a type of provitamin A carotenoid found in various fruits and vegetables. It is converted to vitamin A in the body, which plays an important role in vision, immune function, and skin health.  

As an antioxidant, β-carotene can neutralize free radicals that can cause damage to cells and tissues. It may also help protect against certain types of cancer, particularly those of the lung, stomach, and prostate. β-carotene has been shown to enhance immune function by stimulating the production of immune cells and increasing their activity.  Furthermore, β-carotene can benefit skin health by reducing the risk of sunburn and improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It can also help maintain the integrity of cell membranes and support the formation of new skin cells.  

It is generally recommended to obtain β-Carotene from natural food sources rather than synthetic supplements as synthetic β-Carotene is chemically produced and may not have the same health benefits as the natural form found in whole foods. Additionally, excessive intake of synthetic β-Carotene has been associated with adverse health effects, such as an increased risk of lung cancer in smokers. 

Selenium (Food-state)

Selenium is a trace mineral that plays an important role in many physiological processes in the human body. It is an essential nutrient that must be obtained through the diet, as the body cannot produce it on its own. 

Selenium is found in many foods, including nuts, seeds, seafood, and whole grains.  One of the primary functions of selenium is its role as an antioxidant. It works to neutralize free radicals and protect cells from oxidative damage, which can lead to aging, chronic diseases, and cancer. Selenium also plays a crucial role in the functioning of the immune system, as it helps to regulate the activity of white blood cells and support the production of antibodies.  

Selenium is also important for maintaining healthy thyroid function, as it is a key component of the enzymes that convert thyroid hormones into their active form. It has been shown to improve thyroid hormone levels in people with deficiencies, and may help prevent thyroid disorders.  

Research has also suggested that selenium may have anti-cancer properties. Studies have shown that people with higher levels of selenium in their diets have a lower risk of certain cancers, including prostate, lung, and colorectal cancer.  Furthermore, selenium may also help support cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation and improving blood vessel function. It has been shown to reduce oxidative stress, lower blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels in some studies.  

Zinc (Food-state)

Zinc is an essential trace mineral that plays a vital role in various physiological processes in the human body, including immune system function. It is a cofactor for numerous enzymes and transcription factors that are involved in immune cell development, differentiation, and function. 

Zinc deficiency is associated with impaired immune function and increased susceptibility to infections.  Studies have shown that zinc supplementation can help support immune function and reduce the incidence and severity of infections, particularly in children and the elderly. Zinc can help regulate the production and function of various immune cells, including T cells, B cells, and natural killer cells. It also plays a critical role in the development and maintenance of the epithelial barriers, such as the skin and mucous membranes, which act as the first line of defense against pathogens.  

In addition to its immune-enhancing properties, zinc is also important for wound healing, protein synthesis, DNA synthesis and repair, and antioxidant defense. It is involved in the production and secretion of various hormones, such as insulin and testosterone, and is essential for proper growth and development.  

Zinc from whole food sources, such as those found in Whole Food Blend supplements, is believed to be more bioavailable and better tolerated than synthetic forms of zinc. Whole food sources of zinc also contain other nutrients and co-factors that may enhance the absorption and effectiveness of zinc, such as copper, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Food-state vitamin C, also known as natural vitamin C, is a type of vitamin C that is derived from whole foods, such as fruits and vegetables. It is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in supporting the immune system. It is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect cells from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals. Additionally, vitamin C is required for the production and function of white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting infections and foreign invaders in the body.  When it comes to immune system function, vitamin C has been shown to enhance several aspects of immune response. 

For example, it can increase the production and activity of natural killer cells, which are specialized immune cells that help identify and destroy infected or abnormal cells. Vitamin C can also enhance the production of antibodies, which are proteins that specifically target and neutralize pathogens in the body.  

Studies have shown that vitamin C supplementation can help reduce the duration and severity of respiratory infections, such as the common cold. This is likely due to its ability to boost immune function and reduce inflammation. Additionally, vitamin C may help improve the barrier function of the skin, which can prevent pathogens from entering the body.  Whole food sources of vitamin C, such as fruits and vegetables, are the best way to ensure adequate intake of this important nutrient. These sources also contain other beneficial nutrients and compounds, such as bioflavonoids, that work synergistically with vitamin C to enhance its absorption and effectiveness in the body.

Vitamin B6 (Food-state)

Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in many physiological processes in the body. It is involved in the metabolism of amino acids, the synthesis of neurotransmitters, the regulation of gene expression, and the production of red blood cells.  

Vitamin B6 is a bioactive compound, which means that it is a naturally occurring substance that has an effect on physiological processes in the body. It is found in whole foods such as meat, fish, poultry, whole grains, nuts, and legumes.  

One of the most important functions of vitamin B6 is its role in the immune system. It helps to maintain the health and function of immune cells, including T cells and B cells, which are essential for fighting infections and diseases. Vitamin B6 also helps to regulate inflammation in the body, which can contribute to immune dysfunction if left unchecked.  

Another important function of vitamin B6 is its involvement in the metabolism of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. Vitamin B6 is required for the synthesis of many amino acids, including tryptophan, which is necessary for the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps to regulate mood, sleep, and appetite.  

Vitamin B6 has also been shown to be beneficial for cardiovascular health, as it helps to reduce levels of homocysteine, an amino acid that has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Additionally, vitamin B6 may play a role in reducing the risk of certain types of cancer, including breast and colon cancer.

Vitamin B12 (Food-state)

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for many physiological functions in the human body. It is involved in DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and nerve function. Vitamin B12 is found naturally in animal products such as meat, fish, and dairy, and is also present in some fortified foods. 

Vitamin B12 is a bioactive compound, meaning that it is a compound that affects biological processes in the body. It acts as a coenzyme, meaning that it is necessary for the function of enzymes that are involved in various metabolic pathways. Specifically, vitamin B12 is necessary for the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, a process that is important for the synthesis of DNA and red blood cells.  

One of the most well-known benefits of vitamin B12 is its role in preventing anemia. Anemia is a condition that occurs when there are not enough red blood cells in the body, and it can lead to fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms. Vitamin B12 is necessary for the production of red blood cells, and a deficiency can lead to megaloblastic anemia, a type of anemia in which the red blood cells produced are larger than normal.  

In addition to its role in red blood cell formation, vitamin B12 is also important for nerve function. It helps to maintain the myelin sheath, which is a protective layer that surrounds nerve cells and facilitates the transmission of nerve impulses. A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to nerve damage and neurological symptoms such as tingling, numbness, and difficulty with balance and coordination.  Vitamin B12 has also been shown to have a role in cognitive function and mood regulation. Some studies suggest that vitamin B12 deficiency may be linked to cognitive decline and depression, and supplementation with vitamin B12 may help to improve cognitive function and mood.

Vitamin D3 (Food-state)

Vitamin D3, also known as cholecalciferol, is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in calcium metabolism and bone health. It is synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight, but can also be obtained from dietary sources and supplements.  

Vitamin D3 acts as a hormone in the body and regulates the expression of genes involved in calcium and phosphorus metabolism. It promotes calcium absorption from the intestine and supports the mineralization of bone tissue, which is essential for maintaining bone strength and preventing osteoporosis. 

Vitamin D3 is also involved in the regulation of the immune system, cardiovascular health, and neurological function.  Research has shown that adequate levels of vitamin D3 may reduce the risk of various diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disorders, and certain cancers. Vitamin D3 supplementation may also improve muscle strength and reduce the risk of falls in older adults.  

The bioavailability and effectiveness of vitamin D3 can vary depending on the source and formulation. Vitamin D3 from whole food sources or supplements derived from whole foods may be more bioactive and better absorbed than synthetic forms. Additionally, vitamin D3 from whole food sources may contain other beneficial compounds that enhance its effects on health.

Vitamin E (Food-state)

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin and a potent antioxidant that plays a vital role in protecting the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals. It exists in eight different forms, with alpha-tocopherol being the most biologically active form. Vitamin E can be obtained from food sources such as nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils.  

When consumed as part of a balanced diet, vitamin E has several important functions in the body. One of the most well-known functions is its ability to act as an antioxidant, which means it can neutralize harmful free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body. This antioxidant activity is essential for maintaining the health of cells and tissues, as oxidative damage has been linked to various chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's disease.  

In addition to its antioxidant properties, vitamin E also plays a role in supporting immune function and maintaining healthy skin and eyes. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases associated with inflammation. Vitamin E also plays a role in promoting healthy blood clotting and supporting proper neurological function.  

The vitamin E found in whole food blends is a bioactive compound, meaning it is in its natural form and is easily recognized and utilized by the body. This is in contrast to synthetic vitamin E, which is often less effective and not as readily absorbed by the body.

• β-Carotene (Food-state)
• Selenium (Food-state)
• Vitamin B6 (Food-state)
• Vitamin B12 (Food-state)
• Vitamin D3 (Food-state)
• Vitamin E (Food-state)
• Vitamin E (Food-state)