Getting Proactive With Antioxidants © VR By Liz Brown Free Radical Theory in a Nutshell Free radicals are normal byproducts of metabolism and they are also introduced into the body from outside sources–harmful chemicals in the environment, unhealthy foods, stress, some drugs and cigarette smoke, for example. So while we can decrease our free radical load to a degree by living healthfully, it's impossible to avoid free radicals altogether. (Many people may not realize that the more exercise a person gets, the more antioxidants are needed, as exercise generates free radicals). Increasing our intake of antioxidants can neutralize free radicals, keeping them from damaging our cells. It may be hard to believe, but free radicals do actually help us in some situations–by killing invading bacteria and viruses, for example. Producing too many free radicals in the wrong place at the wrong time is when we suffer oxidative damage, explains Andreas Papas, PhD, in The Vitamin E Factor (Harper Perennial). Free radicals are unstable molecules that are short one electron. Molecules are more stable with paired electrons, so free radicals must steal electrons from other molecules in the body to make themselves more stable. The formerly stable molecules that lose electrons to free radicals then become unstable themselves and must steal an electron from another molecule to restabilize, and so on. This chain reaction can lead to serious damage (oxidative damage) in our bodies, contributing to degenerative conditions like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. One way to illustrate oxidative damage is to explain or demonstrate what happens when you cut into an apple and leave it sit for a few minutes. The exposure to oxygen causes browning, representing oxidation. Oxidation also causes rust to form and turns butter rancid. The good news is that researchers are constantly gaining more of an understanding of just how powerful antioxidants can be in fighting free radicals. Basically, they neutralize free radicals before they can do their damage, thereby protecting us. They also prevent too many free radicals from forming and can repair damaged molecules or replace them with other ones, Papas asserts. When they donate electrons to neutralize free radicals, antioxidants themselves can become free radicals, but they react slowly and, notes Papas, they "can be regenerated back to their original form or be disposed of safely." Antioxidants can even put the kibosh on free radical damage after a degenerative condition has presented. For example, alpha-lipoic acid benefits people with preexisting diabetes. Interestingly, many antioxidants have beneficial effects beyond their antioxidant properties as well. Antioxidant' has become a household word in recent years–and with good reason. The impressive research highlighting the benefits of these beneficial compounds in staving off degenerative diseases and aging grows practically every day. Many consumers know that antioxidants are good and that free radicals are bad, but their knowledge base doesn't always extend very far beyond that. Helping customers understand how various antioxidants work and for what conditions they are most useful can make a big difference. That's especially true when you take into account the constantly expanding variety of products featuring antioxidants and antioxidant formulas–from vitamins and vitamin-like compounds to minerals and botanicals. Taking in a variety, or "cocktail," of antioxidants can help ensure that we get the most full-spectrum protection possible, as each has strengths in regard to where and how it works in the body. Here, we take a closer look at some of the most powerful antioxidants available in supplements today. Vitamins C and E These antioxidant vitamins and vitamin-like compounds aren't new, but they remain important due to their free radical scavenging powers and other health benefits. Vitamin A also has some antioxidant action, but vitamins C and E and the carotenoids lycopene, lutein and beta-carotene get more attention as antioxidants. Researchers from the University of Buffalo recently determined that antioxidant vitamins E and C can nullify the arterial inflammatory process that results from a glucose challenge. Subjects who ate a fast food breakfast experienced an increase in free radicals in the few hours following consumption. Measures of inflammation increased, too. This is significant, because free radicals can begin the inflammation cascade by injuring blood vessel lining and altering blood mediators of inflammation. This inflammation predisposes people to atherosclerosis. The researchers, who presented their findings on June 1 at the annual meeting of the American Diabetes Association in San Francisco, found that subjects who took 1,200 IU of vitamin E and 500 mg of vitamin C before a glucose challenge did not experience increases in free radical levels or two pro-inflammatory markers. Without the vitamins, however, these markers did increase. Supplementation with vitamins C and E has been linked to reduced cancer risk (ovarian cancer is among these) in many studies. Beneficial amounts have been determined to be higher than the amounts typical of diet alone. Vitamin E is perhaps most noteworthy for its ability to benefit heart health through various mechanisms, including protecting artery walls and LDL cholesterol from oxidation that can lead to blockage of blood flow and heart attacks. The natural form of vitamin E is far superior to the synthetic form, as the former type is much better absorbed by the body. Vitamin C helps regenerate vitamin E that has been used up in the war on free radicals. Up to 400 IUs of d-alpha tocopherol a day is a common recommendation for heart benefits, although recent research is suggesting important roles of other forms of vitamin E (the three other tocopherols and the four tocotrienols) in heart and other aspects of health. Taking all eight forms of vitamin E as opposed to only one–a "full spectrum" approach endorsed by noted vitamin E researcher Andreas Papas, PhD–may well offer the best antioxidant protection, as various forms have unique antioxidant properties. Consumers can reap the benefits of the entire vitamin E family by choosing a supplement containing "mixed tocopherols" and "mixed tocotrienols." Taking 100 IU plus 100 mg of mixed tocopherols and tocotrienols is advocated by Papas as "the adequate level to get most of the benefits," though it's fine to take as much as 400 IUs plus 400 mg of mixed tocopherols and tocotrienols. Selenium Selenium is best known for its ability to reduce the risk of cancer, including prostate cancer. It protects DNA, fats and protein in the body from oxidative damage, improves the action of vitamin E and is needed to produce glutathione peroxidase, an antioxidant made in the body that is also an immune system stimulant. Two hundred micrograms of selenium a day is a safe and beneficial amount. Carotenoids Beta-carotene quenches singlet oxygen, a specific kind of free radical, and it may decrease the risk of some forms of cancer. Oral beta-carotene and vitamin E also appear to help protect against sun damage from UV rays. Lutein and zeaxanthin protect eyes from degenerative conditions like cataracts, slow the progression of macular degeneration and cataracts by filtering out UV light and protect the fat-rich membranes in the eye from free radical damage. Lycopene, a carotenoid found in tomatoes, has been linked to reduced risk of prostate cancer. A few studies in recent years found that beta-carotene seemed to slightly increase lung cancer risk among smokers, especially smokers who drank alcohol. But synthetic beta-carotene was used in these studies, which is significant because the natural form (from Dunaliella salina algae) is considered superior to the synthetic form. Even so, beta-carotene seems to work best when taken with other antioxidants, such as mixed carotenoids. Coenzyme Q10 Besides Coenzyme Q10's crucial role in energy production, this vitamin-like antioxidant wipes out free radicals. In doing so, it protects LDL cholesterol from oxidation and also protects the brain, liver, muscles, nerves and other systems, explains Martin Zucker in his book, User's Guide to Coenzyme Q10 (Basic Health Publications). Some research has shown that CoQ10 can even help stabilize vitamin E that has become reactive itself in the fight against free radicals. There is concern among some cardiologists and researchers that statin drugs taken to lower cholesterol decrease the body's production of CoQ10, so supplementation is often advised. Production of CoQ10 decreases with age and it's hard to get therapeutic amounts via diet alone, making supplements an excellent choice. Alpha-lipoic Acid Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) has become a strong seller in the dietary supplement category, thanks to its benefits for those with diabetes. ALA is made in vivo, but production decreases with age. It helps produce energy and has antioxidant roles. Because it is both hydrophilic (water-loving) and lipophilic (fat-loving), it prevents free radical damage in various body areas, including fluids, stored fat, the heart, bone, cartilage, liver and more, notes Burt Berkson, MD, PhD, in The Alpha Lipoic Acid Breakthrough (Prima Health). ALA also recycles other antioxidants including vitamin C, vitamin E and glutathione. For these reasons ALA is taken in attempts to prevent diabetes, hyperlipidemia, cancer, stroke, cataracts, organ and radiation damage, neurological disease and toxic states, writes Berkson. ALA can be very helpful for people with diabetes. Dangerously high blood glucose levels typical of diabetes can lead to long-term complications, including kidney damage and other problems. Hyperglycemia generates free radicals while weakening antioxidant mechanisms, leading to a state of oxidative stress.In animal studies, ALA has been found to lower blood pressure and prevent insulin resistance and is thought to do so via its antioxidant actions. ALA has also exhibited potential to protect against nephropathy (kidney disease) and may slow the progression and decrease symptoms of neuropathy (nerve lesions/damage) among diabetics. Green and Black Tea Extracts Green tea extract (GTE) shows promise in reducing cancer and heart disease risk by way of its antioxidant properties. The main active component of green tea is the polyphenol epigallocatechin-3-gallate, or EGCG. Even so, in vitro and animal studies have led some researchers to believe that a variety of catechins in green tea extract–including EGCG–are beneficial, so it's likely that future trials will investigate the effects of a combination of catechins found naturally in green tea. There has also been some promising research investigating the potential for catechins in GTE to protect against neurodegenerative disease (such as Parkinson's), due in large part to its antioxidant action. And studies with GTE and the skin in animal and human subjects have found that it protects against harmful UV radiation when applied topically. Hence, the growing number of skin care products on the market boasting GTE. Black tea extract is gaining attention for its antioxidant action, preventing induced lipid peroxidation in the liver, kidneys and testes of animal subjects. Grape Seed Extract The proanthocyanidins in red grape seeds have been reported to have a broad array of actions against oxidative stress. According to recent research, grape seed extract IH636 proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) demonstrated "significantly better free radical scavenging ability than vitamins C, E and beta-carotene and demonstrated significant cytotoxicity towards human breast, lung and gastric adenocarcinoma cells, while enhancing the growth and viability of normal cells." GSPE also protected against cancer chemotherapeutic drug-induced cytotoxicity in human liver cells and tobacco-induced apoptotic cell death in human oral keratinocytes. Grape seed extract has also been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce signs and symptoms of chronic age-related disorders including syndrome X, a common condition associated with elevated blood glucose levels. Up and Coming At the raw material level, there are several notable newer antioxidant entries that should be showing up as products for your shelves. One is Origanox WS�, from BI Nutraceuticals, Long Beach, CA, a water-soluble ingredient standardized to contain a minimum of seven percent of rosmarinic acid (a phenolic) that also contains a balance of other synergistic plant compounds. It is extracted from edible herb species of the Labitae family (like Origanum vulgare and Salvia officinalis), has a history of therapeutic use and protects against oxidation in baked and fried products, meat, fish, other foods and other active ingredients including vitamin E and beta-carotene. According to company literature, Origanox is at least 20 times more active than vitamin C and can be used in topical as well as oral products. Rosmarinic acid neutralizes a type of reactive oxygen species called superoxide radical anion, helping to curb oxidative damage in the body. Its presence purportedly frees up other antioxidants, and it is able to cross the blood-brain barrier to fight free radicals there, which contribute to degenerative diseases. Alternative Natural offers Origanox� Superior Natural Anti-oxidant in a 500 mg supplement. Another novel antioxidant is Extramel Cantaloupe Extract from Seppic, developed by Bionova, a subsidiary of ASL Company. It comes from crossing a variety of (non-GMO) melons and contains various antioxidants, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, CoQ10, carotenoids and vitamins A, C and E. Rosemary extracts like RoseOx and Rossentia (both also from BI Nutraceuticals) are also antioxidants. The carnosic acid content in RoseOx quenches free radicals, and Rossentia contains rosmarinic acid, which is a water-soluble phenolic compound with a high Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC), a measure of the ability to quench free radicals. ORAC assay measures how well a substance can disarm free radicals and it is projected to become more important in the years ahead in quantitating and comparing the antioxidant power of various ingredients. To measure ORAC, a sample of a substance is compared to Trolox (a water-soluble derivative of tocopherol). The results are expressed as mmoles Trolox Equivalents (TE)/g. (A single serving of freshly cooked vegetables or fruit provides about 600-800 ORAC units on average.) There are plenty of other botanicals that have antioxidant properties, such as ginkgo biloba, which protects against cellular damage to the circulatory system and brain. Turmeric (the fat-soluble curcumin it contains, specifically) wards off free radical damage to DNA and may protect the liver against such damage, as well. Bilberry and milk thistle also fit into this category. Formulas vs. Singular Supplements Antioxidants tend to work synergistically, making formulas a wise choice for customers seeking antioxidant protection. In addition, formulas targeting specific benefits–heart health, blood sugar control, etc.–can make it easy for consumers to find appropriate products without juggling countless bottles of individual supplements. • Chatsworth, CA-based Natrol carries Ultimate Antioxidant Formula containing all of the essential antioxidants and herbal extracts and supporting nutrients, according to Laura Moore at Natrol. • Michael's Antioxidant Factors, San Antonio, TX, is a combination of antioxidant vitamins and nutrients with grape seed extract and other ingredients (bioflavonoids, rosemary leaf, ginkgo biloba, etc.) geared toward broad spectrum protection. • Nature's Life, Garden Grove, CA, offers Full Spectrum Antioxidant Soft Multi, a high-potency liquid with key antioxidants, CoQ10, Lyc-O-Mato® tomato extract with lycopene, FloraGLO® lutein and 1000 mg olive oil in a softgel capsule that is iron- and iodine-free. Nature's Life Full Spectrum ACE Antioxidant Complex contains lutein, lycopene, mixed tocopherols, grape seed extract, pine bark and green tea. • Enzymatic Therapy, Green Bay, WI, also makes a Doctor's Choice Antioxidant Formulas. It is intended to be used in conjunction with Doctor's Choice age- and gender-specific multiple vitamins. The antioxidant formula contains beta-carotene, vitamin C, natural vitamin E, riboflavin, zinc picolinate, selenium, manganese, N-acetyl cysteine, cabbage extract, ginger root extract, garlic extract, green tea extract, Klamath blue-green algae, curcuma standardized to curcumin content and, grape seed extract and is to be taken three times daily. Some stand-alone supplements continue to perform well in stores. CoQ10 (for heart and overall health), Pycnogenol, grape seed extract (for general antioxidant protection as well as vascular health) and ALA (for diabetes and general health), for example, are still popular on their own for many retailers. Natrol carries stand-alone ingredients, with Ester-C and vitamin E among them. Among the offerings of Enzymatic Therapy are Grape Seed Phytosome� and caffeine-free Green Tea Phytosome�. Phytosome is a form that is significantly more absorbable than unbound extracts, according to company literature. What Retailers Recommend Some retailers say they start by recommending a multivitamin and mineral complex to customers looking for overall protection and benefits, then add an antioxidant formula and a supplement of essential fats to cover the bases. That's the approach taken by Linda Howes, certified nutritionist and manager of 14 Carrots in New London, NH. Howes says that the 14 Carrots house brand Super Antioxidant is recommended frequently to customers. It contains beta-carotene, vitamins C and E, glutathione, zinc, selenium, NAC, quercetin and lipoic acid. Also purchased often by customers, Howes said, is New Chapter's Bio-Grown CoQ10, a whole food source of CoQ10 purported to have enhanced bioavailability. Susan Shaw, manager of JD's Health Bar in Nacogdoches, TX, said that she sells mostly stand-alone antioxidants, including CoQ10, selenium, ALA and full-spectrum vitamin E. Her customers usually come in with something very specific in mind. A combination antioxidant supplement popular at JD's is Solaray Protector Nutrients. Walt Edwards, owner of Health Gallery in Gold Beach, OR, does well with Pycnogenol, CoQ10 (for heart health, anti-aging and periodontal problems), ALA, grape seed extract, cranberry concentrate capsules for bladder problems, saw palmetto and pygeum, milk thistle with turmeric and artichoke, as well as super antioxidant formulas. He likes Solaray's Protector Nutrients and Immune Power by Healing America. For vitamin E, he usually recommends a multivitamin–like one of his favorites, an iron-free Women's Blend from Super Nutrition–containing plenty of E, other antioxidants and additional ingredients. Educating Customers Antioxidants play so many diverse roles in health that they can overwhelm consumers. That's why having abundant, high-quality literature for curious customers is so important. Shaw keeps files containing articles about individual antioxidants so she is prepared for customers' questions when they come in. Shaw gives out copies of articles that interest them, encouraging customers to read the material and then make their own decisions. "I am an information hound," she admits. "I look everywhere–magazines, newspapers, etc." The store's owner is a doctor with a nearby practice, so customers have that resource available, too. Howes schedules staff trainings with company reps, and invites local practitioners to present educational talks in a community space. She stressed that attendance is far better when the focus is on a specific disease or health problem as opposed to, say, healthy eating or another more general topic. "You have to speak to their pain and discomfort," she advised. Edwards, who has a PhD in nutrition and does nutrition counseling, illustrates the need for antioxidants and the idea of free radical aging by squirting ascorbic acid-heavy lemon juice onto a browning apple to demonstrate antioxidant action. He also offers customers plenty of information on his website, www.getwel.com. The fact that so many customers are asking about and looking for antioxidants at Shaw's store–a small shop in a tiny Oregon beach town with many retired residents–is a reminder of just how pervasive antioxidants have become in recent years. Good news travels fast, indeed. VR
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