Schisandra de China

Schisandra de China (Schisandra chinerisis (Turcz.) Baill.) este o liană vivace sau un arbust cu înălţimea de până la 8-15 m, cu tulpina dreaptă, căţărătoare, lignificată. Frunzele sunt alterne, cu peţiol de culoare roşie, puţin cărnoase, ovale sau acuminate.

Florile sunt mici, unisexuate, ceroase, parfumate, la început roze, apoi albe, dispuse pe lăstari scurţi, câte 2-5 la subsuoara frunzelor. Fructul este o bacă sferică, suculentă, de culoare roşie-oranj. Bobiţele sunt dispuse câte 20-50 pe o axă centrală, formând un ciorchin cu boabe care au în interior câte 2 seminţe. Înfloreşte în lunile mai-iunie.

Este originar din China. Creştea încă în terţiar. Cu schimbarea climei a rămas şi creşte spontan numai în Asia de Est, Orientul Îndepărtat, în China şi Japonia. Se întâlneşte în păduri amestecate, la marginea pădurilor, printre tufişuri, pe malurile râurilor şi pâraielor, mai ales pe soluri nisipoase şi pe locurile pădurilor defrişate.

Cu toate că schisandra de China se consideră o liană tropicală, ea este cea mai rezistentă la ger, suportând uşor temperatura de minus 30°C şi chiar minus 45°C. Ea nu se teme nici de îngheţurile de primăvară, nici de cele de toamnă, de aceea poate fi cultivată departe de arealul ei natural. Anumite exemplare de schisandra de China pot fi întâlnite şi la noi, în unele parcuri şi grădini vechi.

Schisandra preferă soluri uşoare, bogate în humus, cu drenaj suficient. Terenul pe care vrem să cultivăm această plantă trebuie pregătit ca pentru alţi arbuşti: arat superficial, irigat (însă solul prea umed face să-i cadă florile). Planta nu suportă razele directe ale soarelui, însă pe locuri prea întunecate nu dă roadă mare.

Ca material de sădire pot servi drajonii tineri. Se aleg cei mai puternici (care cresc mai departe de planta-mamă), se taie împreună cu o bucată de rădăcină şi se plantează imediat pe locul pregătit în prealabil. O asemenea liană începe a rodi peste doi ani de vegetaţie, iar plantele obţinute din seminţe rodesc tocmai peste 5 ani.

Ca orice liană, are necesitate de suporturi. Plantele tinere trebuie protejate să nu îngheţe peste iarnă. În primii ani lianele se scot de pe suporturi şi se învelesc cu frunze sau cu alt material. Fructele se maturizează în august-septembrie, dar pot rămâne pe tufe până la îngheţuri.

Boabele de schisandra conţin cantităţi însemnate de zaharuri şi acizi organici (citric, malic, tartric ş.a), vitaminele B, C şi E, ulei volatil, substanţe tanante şi colorante, gliceride ale acizilor graşi superiori, substanţe minerale (fier, calciu, fosfor). Seminţele conţin mult ulei gras, ulei volatil, vitamina E, răşină şi compuşi neazotaţi, specifici acestei plante.

Principiile active cu acţiune fiziologică asupra organismului omului au fost stabilite abia în ultimii ani. Acestea sunt schizandrina, schizandrolul şi alte substanţe organice cu o structură foarte complexă.

Din vremuri îndepărtate, această plantă a fost folosită în medicina populară a Coreei, Japoniei şi mai cu seamă a Chinei. În foliantele vechi ale chinezilor se păstrează proprietatea schisandrei de China de a îmbunătăţi vederea. Vânătorii din Extremul Orient, pentru a preveni oboseala, consumau bobiţe de schisandra sau bucăţele din tulpini ori rădăcini, sub formă de ceai.

Când plecau la vânătoare, ei îşi luau boabe uscate de schisandra. Doar câteva boabe ajută să-ţi păstrezi puterea, vioiciunea, tăria sufletească şi vederea ageră; puteau merge toată ziua fără mâncare.

Mult timp europenii nu ştiau nimic despre această plantă. Abia în anul 1942 au început unele cercetări ale acţiunii schisandrei de China asupra organismului uman. S-a constatat că cea mai eficace acţiune o are tinctura din fructe şi seminţe.

În timpul războiului ea era un excelent remediu de restabilire a puterii şi vederii soldaţilor. Mai târziu s-a constatat că tinctura tonifică sistemul cardiovascular, ridică tensiunea arterială, stimulează respiraţia şi funcţia sistemului nervos central. Preparatele din fructe şi seminţe sunt mai efective în această privinţă decât cele din tulpini şi rădăcini.

Notă: Trebuie de avut în vedere că această tinctură este contraindicată celor care suferă de insomnie sau de dereglări ale funcţiei cardiace, de hipertensiune, nervozităţi.

Tinctura dă rezultate bune în tratamentul gastritelor cronice, normalizând secreţia sucului gastric. Numai 2 g de pulbere din seminţe sunt de ajuns pentru a micşora aciditatea sucului gastric. Iar în cazurile gastritei cu aciditatea scăzută, este recomandabil sucul de schisandra de China. În practica de psihiatrie tinctura este un tonifiant general.

Notă: Tinctura de fructe se administrează numai cu avizul medicului.

Toate părţile lianei conţin ulei volatil cu miros plăcut de lămâie. Din antichitate, chinezii o numeau plantă cu 5 gusturi: coaja şi pulpa fructului sunt acre şi dulci, seminţele – amare şi astringente, iar fructul întreg are un gust sărat. Fructele proaspete nu se consumă. Sucul din fructe cu 2 părţi de zahăr se păstrează mult timp.

Adăugându-l în ceai sau în apă rece, obţinem o băutură răcoritoare care potoleşte setea. Din fructe se prepară dulceaţă, gem, compot, jeleuri. Din frunze şi lăstari tineri se prepară un ceai aromat, de culoare aurie. Sucul de fructe, având culoarea roşie închisă, este întrebuinţat pentru producerea băuturilor răcoritoare, bomboanelor.

În ultimul timp, schisandra de China este vestită şi ca plantă decorativă. Într-un pavilion cu pereţii acoperiţi cu această liană, se simte o răcoare plăcută, chiar şi în zilele foarte călduroase, iar pereţii respectivi sunt foarte pitoreşti mai ales primăvara, când planta are flori albe, aromate, dar şi toamna, când fructele sunt roşii, dispuse în ciorchini.(www.soryx.com)

In ultimii ani s-au efectuat numeroase studii cu privire la beneficiile pe care fructele plantei medicinale Schizandra le aduc sanatatii, datorita compozitiei lor bogate in uleiuri esentiale, acizi si peste 30 de tipuri de lignani, substante cu efect puternic antioxidant. Se stie in prezent ca Schizandra actioneaza pe o gama larga de afectiuni.

Actiune hepatoprotectoare. Conform unor descoperiri recente, lignanii din compozitia produsului, prezenti in cantitati semnificative, ajuta la detoxifierea si protejarea ficatului in peste 76% din cazurile de afectiuni hepatice.

Actiune adaptogena. Schizandra ajuta organismul sa faca fata stresului fizic, psihic si imunitar. In antichitate, fructele de Schizandra erau consumate pentru efectul lor calmant si antidepresiv, intrucat acestea stimuleaza productia de serotonina in organism, cunoscuta si ca „substanta fericirii”. Se mai foloseau de asemenea pentru indepartarea insomniei si reducerea tulburarilor de somn.

Efect tonic general. In traditiile chinezesti se considera ca Schizandra actioneaza pe toate cele 12 meridiane energetice ale corpului uman, intarindu-l din interior. Este recunoscut de asemenea efectul sau de tonic sexual feminin si masculin, prin faptul ca Schizandra imbunatateste secretia fluidelor sexuale si, la barbati, creste performantele sexuale.

Efect dermatoprotector. Schizandra este folosita pentru protejarea pielii de distrugerile pe care le provoaca soarele si vantul. In plus, actioneaza eficient pe o gama larga de afectiuni dermatologice: urticarii, eczeme si alergii. (sfatulparintilor.ro)

Fruct cu proprietati exceptionale – imunomodulator, adaptogen si protector hepatic

Schizandra (fructul cu cinci gusturi) este folosita de peste 2000 de ani in China pentru o gama larga de afectiuni. A fost inclusa in cea mai veche farmacopee chinezeasca a lui Seng Nong din anul 56 i.H.

Efecte adjuvante:
– imunomodulator
– protector hepatic in ciroza, carcinom hepatic, icter, hepatite virale si alcoolice:
– protejeaza membrana hepatocitelor
– mentine nivelul de glutation hepatic
– stimuleaza sinteza glicogenului si a proteinelor
– reduce nivelul transaminazelor serice, imbunatateste metabolismul acizilor biliari
– ajuta la refacerea tesutului hepatic dupa hepatectomie
– stimuleaza faza I si II de detoxifiere hepatica
– tonic general: actioneaza pe fiecare din cele 12 meridiane energetice ale corpului uman
– adaptogen: stimuleaza selectiv functiile organismului ajutandu-l sa se adapteze fizic, psihic, imunitar; creste capacitatea organismului de a raspunde rapid la stres fara expunerea indelungata la efectele negative ale cortizolului; stimuleaza sinteza substantelor adaptogene adrenalina si noradrenalina
– imbunatateste somnul, reduce iritabilitatea, nevrozele, depresiile, halucinatiile, paranoia, sindromul picioarelor nelinistite (stimuleaza producerea neurotransmitatorilor serotonina si dopamina)
– imbunatateste memoria, concentrarea, claritatea mentala, reflexele si capacitatea de coordonare a miscarilor fine
– antiinflamator: reduce producerea metabolitilor proinflamatori ai acidului arahidonic; previne distrugerea tisulara fara a interfera cu capacitatea antiinfectioasa a organismului
– imbunatateste activitatea renala in urinari frecvente, enurezis nocturn, diabet insipid, etc.
– reduce efectele cardio si hepatotoxice ale chimioterapiei
– detoxifica limfa
– imbunatateste acuitatea vizuala si auditiva
– tonic sexual masculin si feminin, afrodisiac
– dermatoprotector in eczeme, urticarii, candidoze, alergii si alte afectiuni dermatologice; reduce riscul aparitiei cancerului de piele secundar expunerii la toxine carcinogene
– imbunatateste respiratia in congestia pulmonara, astm, emfizem, wheezing, tuse cronica.

Alte ingrediente: componente bioactive:peste 30 de lignani (schizandrin A, B, C, pregomisin, gomisin, deoxischizandrin), schizoandrol, fitoesteroli (stigmasterol, betasitosterol), vitaminele C si E, uleiuri volatile.

Natural GABA supplement

Stress and Anxiety:

By Kimberly Pryor
With an increasing array of demands placed upon us during the holidays—from office parties to gift buying to sending cards—stress seems to accumulate at this time of year. Regardless of whether an individual suffers from seasonal stress or a generalized anxiety disorder that persists year round, there are ways to cope with all of life’s challenges in a calm, relaxed manner.

A synergistic blend of GABA, L-Theanine, Ashwagandha, Valerian Root, and Passion Flower may help support individuals who suffer from excessive stress or anxiety.
GABA

Gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the most important inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system (CNS). It exerts its actions through the same GABA receptors that are targets for the anti-anxiety drugs known as benzodiazepines (such as Valium) and barbiturates.

Evidence indicates that dysfunction of GABA receptors or a lowered amount of GABA in the central nervous system plays an important role in the development of panic disorder and psychosis.1-2 Researchers have found that increasing endogenous GABA concentrations through the use of drugs that inhibit its breakdown can improve symptoms of panic and anxiety.

Low levels of GABA have been associated with negative effects. Researchers in France measured plasma GABA levels in 108 road traffic accident victims on arrival at a traumatology department and assessed them for posttraumatic stress disorder 6 weeks later.

The mean GABA level in the 55 post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) patients was significantly lower compared with the 17 trauma-exposed subjects who did not develop PTSD.3

According to the researchers, “Provided that GABA levels in the brain are genetically predetermined, our results would suggest that individuals with low plasma GABA levels are premorbidly more vulnerable to stress-related disorders such as acute PTSD.”

In a study on dogs, GABA also exerted some interesting anti-aging effects. GABA (30 mg/kg) was administered to aged dogs with a recent history of veterinary clinic visits (mean age: 15.3 years old) once per day for two weeks by mixing it with food. The animals’ owners subjectively evaluated the effects of GABA on behavioral signs often associated with aging in dogs.

The results indicated that the dogs’ behavioral signs of aging improved notably after GABA administration without any observable adverse effects. Dogs given GABA tended to experience improved emotional states. The animals also exhibited an improvement in autonomic nervous system dysfunction, though effects on cognitive dysfunction syndrome were not always observed.4

“Thus, GABA administration may be one of the effective means of improving the quality of life of aged dogs,” the researchers wrote.
While similar studies investigating GABA’s effects on aging humans have not been conducted, this dog study raises some intriguing possibilities about GABA’s role in the aging process.

GABA receptors may also have a role to play in premenstrual anxiety, indicating that increasing GABA levels at key times in the menstrual cycle may increase well being.5
Passion Flower
Extracts and fluid extracts from the aerial parts from Passiflora incarnata L. are widely used as components of herbal sedatives. Animal studies have indicated that passion flower has sedative and anti-anxiety effects. Passion flower extracts are used in combination with other natural anti-anxiety agents for tenseness, restlessness and irritability with difficulty in falling asleep.6

Mice treated with passion flower exhibited reduced anxiety when exposed to non-familiar environments. The animals treated with passion flower, when forced to climb a staircase, climbed higher than untreated mice. In addition, when placed in a half-dark/half-light box, the animals treated with passion flower experienced a greater amount of movement and spent more time in the light side of the box compared to untreated mice. Passion flower also acted as a sedative in the mice.7

Valerian

Use of valerian dates back to the ancient Greeks and Chinese.
When the valepotriates were discovered in 1966 they were thought to be Valerian’s sole active constituents, but since then their breakdown products, the baldrinals, and other components are believed to be responsible for valerian’s actions.8

Valerian interacts with neurotransmitters such as GABA9-10 and triggers a dose-dependent release of GABA.11 Valerian also stops the enzyme-caused breakdown of GABA in the brain, which results in its relaxation actions.12-13

Researchers have explored valerian’s anti-anxiety abilities. In a double-blind trial of 48 adults placed in an experimental situation of social stress, valerian reduced subjective sensations of anxiety and did not cause any measurable sedation.14 In another study, researchers compared valerian to an anti-anxiety drug. When subjects consumed 50 mg three times daily of valerian, they experienced a significant reduction in Hamilton Anxiety Scale scores after four weeks.

This was similar to the effects seen with the anti-anxiety drug.15

Another study compared valerian and kava kava to each other and placebo in a standardized mental stress test in 54 healthy subjects. Unlike placebo, both preparations decreased systolic blood pressure responsiveness and self-reported feelings of stress, and inhibited a stress-induced rise in heart rate.16 Studies also have confirmed valerian’s safety and shown that it has no side effects.

Furthermore, scientists have studied valerian for its sleep-enhancing effects. In one double-blind, crossover study, researchers found 400 mg valerian improved sleep latency and quality compared to placebo.17 In a study of 128 participants given 400 mg aqueous valerian extract or placebo, improvement was noted in sleep latency and sleep quality. “Poor sleepers” appeared to achieve a greater benefit from valerian compared to self-described “good sleepers.”18

Other studies exploring valerian’s ability to enhance sleep have noted similar results. In a study of 121 patients who consumed 600 mg valerian extract per day for four weeks or a placebo, researchers measured clinical effectiveness using four validated rating scales. After 14 days valerian was superior to the placebo on the Clinical Global Impression Scale (CGIS).

At the study’s end at 28 days, 66 percent of subjects rated valerian effective, compared to only 26 percent of the placebo-treated subjects.19

Other researchers have found that sleep latency was significantly reduced in 16 insomnia patients treated with valerian, compared to placebo-treated patients. Valerian-treated subjects also experienced an increased percentage of slow wave sleep compared to the placebo group.20

Patients who don’t exercise, who can’t calm down mentally and who exhibit stress along with despondency and mental depression have responded best to valerian.21-23
In cell culture experiments, valerian also has protected neurons against amyloid peptides, which are associated with Alzheimer’s disease.24

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a botanical used extensively in Indian Ayurvedic medicine. In Ayurveda, Ashwagandha is used to promote physical and mental health, to provide defense against disease and adverse environmental factors and to slow aging.25

In India, Ashwagandha is often used to stabilize mood in patients with behavioral disturbances. Researchers sought to confirm these effects by investigating the anti-anxiety and anti-depressant actions of a bioactive component isolated from ashwagandha in rats. The ashwagandha component was administered orally once per day for 5 days. Researchers then compared the results to those achieved with a benzodiazepine drug and with a tricyclic anti-depressant.

The ashwagandha component caused an anti-anxiety effect comparable to that produced by the anti-anxiety drug in a number of tests including a maze test, and a test that included social interaction and delay of feeding in an unfamiliar environment. In addition, after the researchers triggered anxiety in the rats by administering an anxiety-producing agent, both the ashwagandha component and the drug reduced brain levels of tribulin, a marker of clinical anxiety. The ashwagandha component also exhibited an antidepressant effect comparable with that induced by the antidepressant drug.

The investigators noted that the results support the use of ashwagandha as a mood stabilizer in clinical conditions of anxiety and depression.25

Other studies indicate ashwagandha possesses anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antistress, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and rejuvenating properties. It also appears to exert a positive influence on the endocrine, cardiopulmonary, and central nervous systems.26 In mice, ashwagandha also has stimulated thyroid function.27

L-Theanine
L-theanine is an amino acid found in green tea. It is best known for its ability to induce a state of relaxation.

Research on human volunteers has demonstrated that L-theanine creates a sense of relaxation in approximately 30-40 minutes after ingestion via at least two different mechanisms. This amino acid directly stimulates the production of alpha brain waves, creating a state of deep relaxation and mental alertness similar to what is achieved through meditation. L-theanine also is involved in the formation of the inhibitory neurotransmitter, gamma amino butyric acid (GABA). GABA influences the levels of two other neurotransmitters, dopamine and serotonin, producing the key relaxation effect.28

In animal and human studies, L-theanine has increased levels of the feel-good neurotransmitter, dopamine, indicating this amino acid may support mental health.29
An interesting effect of L-theanine is its ability to inhibit the stimulation that occurs after caffeine intake. Japanese researchers investigated this ability in animals by intravenously administering caffeine to rats. They then also administered L-theanine intravenously at an equivalent dose to the caffeine and measured the animals’ brain waves. The researchers determined that, depending on the dose, L-theanine could stop the stimulant effects associated with caffeine intake. When given by itself in a smaller dose (20-40 percent of the original dose), theanine administration resulted in excitatory effects, suggesting a dual activity of theanine.30

L-theanine’s ability to induce a state of relaxation may be the reason it has reduced blood pressure in an animal study. When spontaneously hypertensive rats were given L-theanine intraperitoneally, they experienced a dose dependent reduction in blood pressure.31
Increasingly, researchers are reaching beyond L-theanine’s anti-stress effects to explore its role as an adjuvant anti-cancer agent. In animals with tumors, L-theanine stops the depletion of the important antioxidant glutathione in normal body tissues, but not in tumor cells, indicating it protects against chemotherapy damage.32

Conclusion

Combining a number of anti-stress nutrients such as GABA, passion flower, valerian, ashwagandha, and L-theanine (all found in VRP’s Allay™) can increase levels of calm and well-being without drowsiness. This synergistic blend may help anxious individuals cope during the holiday season and beyond.

References
1. Zwanzger P, Rupprecht R. Selective GABAergic treatment for panic? Investigations in experimental panic induction and panic disorder. J Psychiatry Neurosci. 2005 May;30(3):167-75.

2. D”Souza DC, Gil RB, Zuzarte E, Macdougall LM, Donahue L, Ebersole JS, Boutros NN, Cooper T, Seibyl J, Krystal JH. Aminobutyric Acid-Serotonin Interactions in Healthy Men: Implications for Network Models of Psychosis and Dissociation. Biol Psychiatry. 2005 Sep 1; [Epub ahead of print]

3. Vaiva G, Thomas P, Ducrocq F, Fontaine M, Boss V, Devos P, Rascle C, Cottencin O, Brunet A, Laffargue P, Goudemand M. Low posttrauma GABA plasma levels as a predictive factor in the development of acute posttraumatic stress disorder. Biol Psychiatry. 2004 Feb 1;55(3):250-4.

4. Inagawa K, Seki S, Bannai M, Takeuchi Y, Mori Y, Takahashi M. Alleviative effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) on behavioral abnormalities in aged dogs. J Vet Med Sci. 2005 Oct;67(10):1063-6.

5. Smith SS, Ruderman Y, Hua Gong Q, Gulinello M. Effects of a low dose of ethanol in an animal model of premenstrual anxiety. Alcohol. 2004 May;33(1):41-9.

6. Krenn L. [Passion Flower (Passiflora incarnata L.)–a reliable herbal sedative] [Article in German]. Wien Med Wochenschr. 2002;152(15-16):404-6.

7. Soulimani R, Younos C, Jarmouni S, Bousta D, Misslin R, Mortier F. Behavioural effects of Passiflora incarnata L. and its indole alkaloid and flavonoid derivatives and maltol in the mouse. J Ethnopharmacol. 1997 Jun;57(1):11-20.

8. Weiss RF, Fintelmann V. Herbal Medicine. 2nd ed. Stuttgart, Germany: Thieme; 2000:262-263.

9. Hendriks H, Bos R, Allersma DP, et al. Pharmacological screening of valerenal and some other components of essential oil of Valeriana officinalis. Planta Med. 1981;42:62-68.

10. Cavadas C, Araujo I, Cotrim MD, et al. In vitro study on the interaction of Valeriana officinalis L. extracts and their amino acids on GABAA receptor in rat brain. Arzneimittelforschung 1995;45:753-755.

11. Ortiz JG, Nieves-Natal J, Chavez P. Effects of Valeriana officinalis extracts on [3H]flunitrazepam binding, synaptosomal [3H]GABA uptake, and hippocampal [3H]GABA release. Neurochem Res. 1999;24:1373-1378.

12. Santos MS, Ferreira F, Faro C, et al. The amount of GABA present in aqueous extracts of valerian is sufficient to account for [3H]GABA release in synaptosomes. Planta Med 1994;60:475-476.

13. Santos MS, Ferreira F, Cunha AP, et al. An aqueous extract of valerian influences the transport of GABA in synaptosomes. Planta Med 1994;60:278-279. 25.

14. Kohnen R, Oswald WD. The effects of valerian, propranolol, and their combination on activation, performance, and mood of healthy volunteers under social stress conditions. Pharmacopsychiatry. 1988;21:447-448. 17.

15. Andreatini R, Sartori VA, Seabra ML, Leite JR. Effect of valepotriates (valerian extract) in generalized anxiety disorder: a randomized placebo-controlled pilot study. Phytother Res. 2002;16:650-654.

16. Cropley M, Cave Z, Ellis J, Middleton RW. Effect of kava and valerian on human physiological and psychological responses to mental stress assessed under laboratory conditions. Phytother Res. 2002;16:23-27.

17. Leathwood PD, Chauffard F. Aqueous extract of valerian reduces latency to fall asleep in man. Planta Med. 1985;2:144-148.

18. Leathwood PD, Chauffard F, Heck E, MunozBox R. Aqueous extract of valerian root (Valeriana officinalis L.) improves sleep quality in man. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 1982;17:6571.

19. Trevena L. Sleepless in Sydney – is valerian an effective alternative to benzodiazepines in the treatment of insomnia? ACP J Club 2004;141:A14-A16.

20. Donath F, Quispe S, Diefenbach K, et al. Critical evaluation of the effect of valerian extract on sleep structure and sleep quality. Pharmacopsychiatry 2000;33:47-53.

21. King J. The American Dispensatory. 6 ed. Cincinnati, OH: Moore, Wilstach & Baldwin; 1864.

22. Felter HW. The Eclectic Materia Medica, Pharmacology and Therapeutics. Portland, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications; 1983. [Reprint of this 1922 text].

23. No authors listed. Valeriana officinalis. Monograph. Alternative Medicine Review. 2004; 9(4):438-41.

24. Malva JO, Santos S, Macedo T. Neuroprotective properties of Valeriana officinalis extracts. Neurotox Res. 2004;6(2):131-40.

25. Bhattacharya SK, Bhattacharya A, Sairam K, Ghosal S. Anxiolytic-antidepressant activity of Withania somnifera glycowithanolides: an experimental study. Phytomedicine. 2000 Dec;7(6):463-9.

26. Mishra LC, Singh BB, Dagenais S. Scientific basis for the therapeutic use of Withania somnifera (ashwagandha): a review. Altern Med Rev. 2000 Aug;5(4):334-46.

27. Panda S, Kar A. Changes in thyroid hormone concentrations after administration of ashwagandha root extract to adult male mice. J Pharm Pharmacol. 1998 Sep;50(9):1065-8.

28 Mason R. 200 mg of Zen; L-theanine boosts alpha waves, promotes alert relaxation. Alternative & Complementary Therapies. April 2001;7:91-95.

29 Yokogoshi H, Kobayashi M, Mochizuki M, Terashima T. Effect of theanine, r-glutamylethylamide, on brain monoamines and striatal dopamine release in conscious rats. Neurochem Res. 1998 May;23(5):667-73.

30. Kakuda T, Nozawa A, Unno T, Okamura N, Okai O. Inhibiting effects of theanine on caffeine stimulation evaluated by EEG in the rat. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2000 Feb;64(2):287-93.

31. Yokogoshi H, Kato Y, Sagesaka YM, Takihara-Matsuura T, Kakuda T, Takeuchi N. Reduction effect of theanine on blood pressure and brain 5-hydroxyindoles in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 1995 Apr;59(4):615-8.

32. Sugiyama T, Sadzuka Y. Theanine, a specific glutamate derivative in green tea, reduces the adverse reactions of doxorubicin by changing the glutathione level. Cancer Lett. 2004 Aug 30;212(2):177-84.

 

http://www.vrp.com/stress/stress-and-anxiety-natural-support-to-calm-anxious-nerves

 

 

Supplements For Diabetes

Supplements For Diabetes

Supplements are usually formulated around a combination of the following ‘diabetic vitamins and minerals, specialty nutrients and supporting herbal extras with perhaps only one or two of the above key herbals included:
•    Valeriana wallichii extras
•    Milk Thistle extras
•    Luteolin
•    Chromium
•    Copper
•    Zinc
•    Calcium
•    Magnesium
•    Manganese
•    Alpha lipoic acid

Effective diabetes supplements must be good multi taskers!

A broad spectrum of efficious and compatible ingredients addresses not only the first two of these key aims but also helps protect organs from serious associated disease:
•    kidney failure
•    heart disease and stroke
•    high blood pressure
•    non-traumatic amputations
•    High cholesterol
•    Nervous system damage
•    cataracts, diabetic retinopathy and blindness
by enhancing immune system reactions and antioxidant action.

The general types of imbalances at the source of most chronic conditions, including diabetes, include:
•    Accumulating toxins
•    Poor nutrition
•    Poor digestion
•    Nervous system imbalance
•    Stress
•    A lowered natural resistance (immune system damage)
•    Disruption of natural biological and hormonal rhythms

This is where supplements form an integral part of natural cures for diabetes because unlike drugs there are no dangerous side effects and –

They address the root cause of the problem! (E2)

Diabet-Eze has 31 precise bioavailable compounds all of which play a specific role in helping achieve the desired results. Some encourage beta-cell regeneration, whereas others help with blood sugar controls, and yet others help improve glucose metabolism and glycogen synthesis in the liver.

Niacin ,   Biotin ,  Calcium,  Magnesium,    Zinc  ,    Selenium ,  Copper ,  Manganese ,   Chromium,    Molybdenum,  Bitter melon extras  (from Momordica charantia, fruit)    ,    Gymnema extras (from (Gymnema sylvestre, leaf)     (providing of gymnemic acid) ,    Green tea extras (from Camellia sinensis, leaf)     (providing of catechins) ,    Milk thistle extras   (from Silybum marianum, seed)     (providing of silymarins)  ,   Indian kino tree extras (from Pterocarpus marsupium, stem)     (a source of pterostilbene) ,     Quercetin  (from Saphorae japonica, flower),  Valerian extras (from Valerian officianale, root)   (providing 1.8 mg of valerenic acid) ,  Rutin  (from Saphorae japonica, bud), Luteolin   (from Arachis hypogaea (Peanut), shell)  ,   Inositol , Banaba extras (from Lagerstroemia speciosa, leaf)     (providing  of corosolic acid) ,    Betain HCL ,  Bromelain (from pineapple stem),   Myricetin  (from Myrica cerifera (Bayberry), leaf)  ,   Alpha lipoic acid , Amylase  (from fermentation of Aspergillus oryzae) ,    Lipase   (from fermentation of Aspergillus niger)     MSM   (Methyl sulfonyl methane) ,    Black cumin extras  (Nigella sativa, seed),     (equivalent to 114 mg of Black cumin seeds) ,    Piperine   (from Piper nigrum (Black pepper), fruit)  ,   Tungsten.

Diabet-Eze contains 31 bio-available compounds, including enzymes, minerals, herbal extrass, and specialty supplements, each of which plays a specific role in helping to bring about the desired results. (E1)

Chromium and Biotin: The combined benefits of these two nutrients for diabetics are well known with studies suggesting that they can help improve glycemic control in overweight to obese individuals with type II diabetes.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA): Apart from helping to repair damaged tissues and peripheral nerves, ALA also improves glucose metabolism by increasing insulin sensitivity. It is thought to improve blood flow in the tiny blood vessels surrounding nerves.

Gymnema Sylvestre: There is scientific evidence of the effectiveness of this herb in both types I and II diabetes as it helps to improve blood sugar control and to raise insulin levels, possibly by regenerating insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It is also known to lower serum cholesterol and triglycerides, which help in preventing diabetes-associated diseases.

Luteolin: A natural flavonoid with strong anti-diabetic activity, Luteolin contains anti-hyperglycemic agents that can reduce the rise of post-prandial blood glucose. Due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and vaso-protective properties, it can also help to prevent diabetes complications.

Momordica Charantia (Bitter Melon): This nutrient helps to regulate glucose uptake in the body, producing a response similar to that of insulin. It is helpful in improving glucose tolerance and glycogen synthesis in the liver, as well as in regenerating beta-cell function in the pancreas.
Myricetin: This naturally occurring flavonoid mimics insulin stimulation and glucose transportation and is important in lowering plasma glucose.

Pterocarpus Marsupium: Long used as a diabetes aid in India, this potent flavonoid is mimetically similar to insulin and has been shown to help regenerate beta cells in the pancreas as well as control blood sugar levels.

Nigella Sativa (Black Cumin): A number of studies have concluded that Black Cumin plays a significant role in increasing glucose-induced insulin release from the pancreas islets.

Quercetin and Rutin: Quercetin may help to control diabetes by enhancing insulin secretion and inhibiting an enzyme associated with glucose conversion into sorbitol, which has been implicated in the development of many diabetic complications, including neuropathy and retinopathy. It also helps to protect the eye lens from high glucose damage as well as the pancreas beta-cells from free radical damage.

Banaba extras (Corosolic Acid): A mimic for insulin, Corosolic acid is important in the transportation of glucose into tissue cells. It is an essential part of the metabolic process required for the conversion of dietary elements into energy.

Selenium: An anti-oxidant mineral, selenium, when combined with Vitamin E, has a significant protective effect against diabetes-associated oxidative damage in the blood, liver, and muscles.

Sulfur (MSM): A component of insulin as well as glucokinase (the enzyme involved in glucose utilization), sulfur plays an important role in balancing blood sugar levels. A deficiency of sulfur in the diet can result in low production of biologically active insulin. Studies have indicated that MSM improves cell permeability and therefore cellular glucose uptake, thereby balancing blood sugar levels and returning the pancreas to normal function. (E3)

 

Chromium

Numerous studies have found that chromium is helpful in glucose management. (Aschwanden 2000) Indeed, a deficiency in this mineral can interfere with the production and utilization of insulin. A chromium deficiency can result in three conditions directly related to blood sugar: high blood sugar levels (hyperlycemia), an inability of the cells to pick up and use blood sugar (impaired glucose tolerance), and higher insulin levels.

Chromium actually mimics insulin. It is thought to improve the processing of insulin, especially in people with prediabetic tendencies. It increases the ability of insulin to bind to cells and leads to increased insulin sensitivity of body tissue. (Anderson 1998) This means that the body better absorbs and uses the blood sugar. In other words, chromium helps the insulin get to more cells, which allows more blood sugar to enter the cells. Doubleblind studies show that chromium improves glucose tolerance levels. The major benefit of chromium is seen when it is used in combination with exercise as it has been shown to help regulate the body’s use of glycogen, or stored sugar. (Mindell and Hopkins 1997)

Vanadium

Although as early as 1899 it was found that a form of vanadium resulted in a decrease in blood sugar levels, it was not until the late 1970s that vanadium’s insulin-like action was first described. Vanadium may activate insulin receptors—making the cells more receptive to insulin— and through this, exert insulin-like action.

This has been supported in two small clinical trials. In one, eight patients with Type II diabetes received 50 mg of vanadium sulfate two times per day for four weeks. The abstract of this study notes that the vanadium was welltolerated and resulted in modest reductions of blood sugar and hepatic insulin resistance. (Boden et al. 1996)

In another small trial, six patients with Type II diabetes were given vanadium. The authors note that after three weeks, insulin sensitivity was improved. (Cohen et al. 1995) In another trial, the effects of vanadium were compared in moderately obese nondiabetic and Type II diabetic subjects. The authors note in their abstract that “In conclusion, small oral doses of vanadyl sulfate do not alter insulin sensitivity in nondiabetic subjects, but it does improve both hepatic and skeletal muscle insulin sensitivity in NIDDM [Type II] subjects in part by enhancing insulin’s inhibitory effect on the breaking down of fats. These data suggest that vanadyl sulfate [vanadium] may improve a defect in insulin signaling specific to NIDDM.” (Halberstam 1996)

Vanadium is also thought to decrease hypersecretion of insulin. (Head 1997)

Bitter Melon

Bitter melon does much the same as chromium: it improves the processing of insulin, thereby improving glucose tolerance levels—that is, the body’s ability to get the blood sugar into the cells.

In one small study, using 100 ml of bitter melon juice was found to improve glucose tolerance by 73 percent in a standard glucose tolerance test. (Welihinda 1986) In another small study, an aqueous extras of bitter melon fruit was found to decrease blood sugar levels by 54 percent. (Srivistava 1993) In another study, bitter melon was shown to reduce blood sugar by improving glucose utilization by the liver. (Sarkar 1996)

Bitter melon also has an important additional benefit: at least one animal study has noted that bitter melon fruit juice results in an increase in the number of beta cells—the cells that produce insulin—in the pancreas of diabetic rats when compared with untreated diabetic rats. The authors of the study suggest that bitter melon may cause a renewal and recovery of the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas. (Ahmed 1998)

Gymnema Sylvestre

Gymnema sylvestre also helps raise insulin levels, notably in the pancreas, thereby lowering blood glucose levels.

Gymnema has been used with patients suffering from both Type I and Type II diabetes. In one study with 27 Type I diabetic patients, the Gymnema extras reduced the insulin requirements and lowered the fasting blood glucose levels. The abstract notes that Gymnema extras enhances the ability of the pancreas to produce insulin, possibly by regeneration/revitalization of the residual beta cells in Type I diabetes. (Shanmugasundaram and Rajeswari 1990)

An animal study supports this. In diabetic rat pancreas, extrass of Gymnema were able to double the islet number (clumps of pancreatic cells) and beta cell number (insulin-producing cells). These results show that Gymnema may improve the health of the pancreas. (Shanmugasundaram and Gopinath 1990)

As far as Type II diabetes goes, in one study, Gymnema extras was administered for 18 to 20 months to 22 Type II diabetic patients taking conventional medication. All the patients showed a significant reduction in blood sugar levels, and five of the 22 diabetic patients were able to maintain their blood sugar levels without conventional drugs. Similar to the above studies, the results also showed higher levels of insulin in the blood, indicating that the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas may be regenerated/ repaired in Type II diabetic patients on Gymnema supplementation. (Baskaran 1990) (E1)

ALPHA LIPOIC ACID

Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant that is manufactured in the human body. Antioxidants are substances that work by attacking “free radicals,” waste products created when the body turns food into energy. There are also many sources of free radicals in the environment such as ultraviolet rays, radiation, and toxic chemicals in cigarette smoke, car exhaust, and pesticides. Free radicals cause harmful chemical reactions that can damage cells in the body, making it harder for the body to fight off infections. As a result a person becomes more susceptible to long term diseases such as diabetes and liver damage.

Alpha-lipoic acid works together with other antioxidants such as vitamins C and E. It is important for growth, helps to prevent cell damage, and helps the body rid itself of harmful substances. Several studies suggest that treatment with ALA may help reduce pain, burning, itching, tingling, and numbness in people who have nerve damage (called peripheral neuropathy) caused by diabetes. Alpha-lipoic acid has been used for years for this purpose in Europe.

Other studies have shown that alpha-lipoic acid speeds the removal of glucose (sugar) from the blood of people with diabetes and that this antioxidant may prevent kidney damage associated with diabetes in animals. Several studies suggest that treatment with ALA may help reduce pain, burning, itching, tingling, and numbness in people who have nerve damage (called peripheral neuropathy) caused by diabetes. Alpha-lipoic acid has been used for years for this purpose in Europe. Other studies have shown that alpha-lipoic acid speeds the removal of glucose (sugar) from the blood of people with diabetes and that this antioxidant may prevent kidney damage associated with diabetes in animals.

CAYENNE POWDER

The spice capsicum, the fruits of the genus Capsicum (Family Solanaceae), is a very popular food additive in many parts of the world, valued for the important sensory attributes of color, pungency, and aroma. A large number of varieties of cayenne pepper are widely cultivated and traded. The characteristic cartenoids of the bright red paprika and cayenne-type chilies, the high character impact aroma stimuli, the methoxy pyrazine of green bell capsicum, the esters of ripe tabasco and the highly potent pungency stimuli, and the capsaicinoids of African and other Asian varieties of chillies, have been of great interest to chemists and biochemists.

Cayenne contains carotenoids and capsaicinoids. In patients suffering from Type 1 diabetes, the pancreas fails to produce sufficient levels of insulin, causing inflammation and death of insulin-producing islet cells in the pancreas.Experts have long believed that the condition was caused by the body’s immune system turning against itself, but the Toronto researchers, immunologist Dr. Hans Michael Dosch and pain expert Dr. Michael Salter, theorized that faulty pancreatic pain neurons could be to blame. Dosch had observed in previous research that islet cells in diabetics were surrounded by an “enormous” number of pain nerves that signaled the brain that the pancreatic tissue was damaged. To test their theory, Dosch and Salter injected capsaicin into mice that had Type 1 diabetes, to kill the animals’ pancreatic pain nerves. The researchers said they were stunned to discover that the injected mice’s islet cells began producing insulin normally almost immediately. “I couldn’t believe it,” Salter said. “Mice with diabetes suddenly didn’t have diabetes anymore.”

CINNAMON POWDER

According to some studies, cinnamon may improve blood glucose and cholesterol levels in people with Type 2 diabetes. The results of a study from 2003 in Pakistan showed lower levels of fasting glucose, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol after 40 days with levels continuing to drop for 20 days after that. The study was made up of 60 people with Type 2 diabetes who were divided into six groups of ten. Three groups received cinnamon in the form of capsules totaling 1, 3 or 6 grams of cinnamon a day. The other three groups received placebo capsules. The capsules were taken three times a day, after meals. All three levels of cinnamon showed results, leading researchers to believe that as little as 1 gram a day of cinnamon may benefit people who have Type 2 diabetes. There has been some debate in this country on whether “true” cinnamon was used for the study.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there are two types of cinnamon sold in the United States; cinnamomum zeylanicum or cinnamomum cassia (L.) blume. Most of the cinnamon sold in our grocery stores is cinnamomum cassia. The Pakistani study does list cinnamomum cassia as the cinnamon that was used. Richard A. Anderson, Ph.D., CNS, of the Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center (BHNRC), is one of the original researchers in the Pakistan study. The BHNRC is under the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). From results of his continued study of the components of cinnamon and their effect on blood glucose and cholesterol, he states: “We have also shown that the active components of cinnamon are found in the water-soluble portion of cinnamon and are not present in cinnamon oil, which is largely fat-soluble.”

Based on these studies, it seems that cinnamon may lower blood glucose, triglycerides and LDL cholesterol in people with Type 2 diabetes. The fact that studies so far have involved a small amount of people and have not yet explored the long term benefits of cinnamon, would lead to the conclusion that there may not be enough evidence gathered yet, to support cinnamon as a major player against Type 2. But adding more cinnamon to already healthy lifestyle changes probably wouldn’t hurt either.

LICORICE EXTRACT

Also, to be safe, if you have high blood pressure or heart trouble, avoid large amounts of licorice. The overconsumption of candies containing licorice extract has caused some people to develop symptoms of edema, or swelling, and related problems. Large amounts of licorice should be avoided since the herb can deplete your body of potassium, causing an electrolyte imbalance. Advanced DiabeCare employs a small amount of licorice, 25 mg as a stomach soothing aid and to assist absorption of the other ingredients. If you have advanced kidney disease or have problems retaining potassium, licorice should be avoided. In all cases seek the advice of your regular healthcare provider.

BITTER MELON EXTRACT

The blood lowering action of the fresh juice of the unripe Bitter Melon has been confirmed in scientific studies in animals and humans. At least three different groups of constituents in Bitter Melon have been reported to have hypoglycemic (blood sugar lowering) or other actions of potential benefit in diabetes mellitus. These include a mixture of steroidal saponins known as charantin, insulin-like peptides, and alkaloids. It is still unclear which of these is most effective or if all three work together. Nonetheless, Bitter Melon preparations have been shown to significantly improve glucose tolerance without increasing blood insulin levels, and to improve fasting blood glucose levels.

Rich in iron, bitter melon has twice the beta carotene of broccoli, twice the calcium of spinach, twice the potassium of bananas, and contains vitamins C and B 1 to 3, phosphorus and good dietary fiber. It is believed to be good for the liver and has been proven by western scientists to contain insulin, act as an anti-tumor agent, and inhibit HIV-1 infection. At least 32 active constituents have been identified in bitter melon so far, including beta-sitosterol-d-glucoside, citrulline, GABA, lutein, lycopene and zeaxanthin. Nutritional analysis reveals that bitter melon is also rich in potassium, calcium, iron, beta-carotene, vitamins B1, B2, B3 and C. Even more effective than a conventional drug in lowering blood sugar! Recently, the Department of Health in the Philippines has recommended bitter melon as one of the best herbal medicines for diabetic management. And multiple clinical studies have clearly established the role of bitter melon in people with diabetes.

Scientists have now identified three groups of constituents that are thought to be responsible for its ‘blood sugar lowering’ action. One of these, a compound called charantin, which is composed of mixed steroids, was found to be more effective than the oral hypoglycemic drug, tolbutamide, in reducing blood sugar. Another, an insulin-like polypeptide, called polypeptide P, appears to lower blood sugar in type I (insulin dependent) diabetics, while alkaloids present in the fruit have also been noted to have a blood sugar lowering effect. As yet, researchers are unclear as to which of these compounds is most effective or if it is the synergistic effect of all three. Further research is required to understand how these compounds actually work. Compounds known as oleanolic acid glycosides have been found to improve glucose tolerance in Type II (maturity onset) diabetics by preventing the absorption of sugar from the intestines. Bitter melon has also been reported to increase the number of beta cells (cells that secrete insulin) in the pancreas, thereby improving your body’s capability to produce insulin (insulin promotes the uptake of sugar from your blood by cells and tissues).

CHROMIUM – AMINO ACID CHELATE (PICOLINATE)

Chromium is an essential trace mineral that occurs naturally in small amounts in some foods, including brewer’s yeast, lean meat, cheese, pork kidney and whole grain bread and cereals. It is poorly absorbed by the human body but is known to play an important role in the metabolism of carbohydrate, fat and protein. Several reports have indicated that chromium picolinate is better absorbed by humans than other forms of the mineral. The review, co-authored by Philip Domenico from Nutrition 21 who produces chromium picolinate supplements, is a timely summary of the state-of-play for the mineral that could offer significant benefits to the growing number of diabetics. An estimated 39 million people are affected by diabetes in the US and EU 25.

The total costs in the US alone are thought to be as much as $132 billion, with $92 billion being direct costs from medication, according to 2002 American Diabetes Association figures. C. Leigh Broadhurst and Domenico reviewed data from fifteen studies (14 focused in type-2 diabetes) with a total of 1,690 subjects, including 1,505 receiving chromium picolinate. Doses ranged from 200-1000 micrograms of chromium per day and supplementation periods ranged from one week to nine months.

“The data indicate that chromium picolinate supplementation represents a uniquely efficacious modality for glycaemic control in subjects with diabetes,” wrote reviewers C. Leigh Broadhurst and Philip Domenico. “Indeed, 13 of 15 clinical studies reported significant improvement in at least one outcome of glycaemic control.”

Broadhurst and Domenico report that six out of ten studies measuring fasting glucose levels showed a significant improvement of 15.3 per cent, and postprandial glucose levels of 18.9 per cent. Fasting insulin levels, measured in four studies, improved by 29.8 per cent, while postprandial insulin improved by 15 per cent from baseline as a result of chromium picolinate supplementation. The authors note that a recent meta-analysis of chromium supplementation with respect to diabetes did not report significant benefits, but this may due to the form of the mineral and that people with type-2 diabetes may need higher doses than normal people for a benefit to be observed.

“The main messages are that all forms of chromium are not equivalent, and that higher doses of chromium picolinate are required for people with type 2 diabetes,” said Broadhurst in a statement. “Previous chromium reviews examined all types of chromium at widely varying doses. But separating out chromium picolinate, which yields highly consistent results in research studies, compared to other chromium supplements shows that at doses between 200–1000 mcg it is a superior nutritional adjunct to diabetes treatments.”

The supplement has a “compelling safety profile”, said the researchers, and is an inexpensive and efficacious way of improving diabetes control and could be used in combination with existing medications, as well as reducing the requirement of these expensive medications.

“Though the data supporting the benefits of supplemental chromium picolinate for subjects with diabetes are strong, future studies may require a more careful selection of subjects to pinpoint its usefulness,” they concluded.

VITAMIN E

People with diabetes tend to have low levels of antioxidants. This may explain, in part, their increased risk for conditions such as cardiovascular disease. Vitamin E supplements and other antioxidants may help reduce the risk of heart disease and other complications in people with diabetes. In particular, antioxidants have been shown to help control blood sugar levels, to ower cholesterol levels in those with type 2 diabetes, and to protect against the complications of retinopathy (eye damage) and nephropathy (kidney damage) in those with type 1 diabetes. Vitamin E may also play a role in the prevention of diabetes. In one study, 944 men who did not have diabetes were followed for 4 years. Low levels of vitamin E were associated with an increased risk of becoming diabetic in that time course.

MAGNESIUM OXIDE

Many studies have shown that both mean plasma and intracellular free magnesium levels are lower in patients with diabetes than in the general population. This magnesium deficiency, which may take the form of a chronic latent magnesium deficit rather than clinical hypomagnesaemia, may have clinical importance because the magnesium ion is a crucial cofactor for many enzymatic reactions involved in metabolic processes. Many studies show that mean plasma levels are lower in patients with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes compared with non-diabetic control subjects.

In a study from Taiwan, the risk of dying from diabetes was inversely proportional to the level of magnesium in the drinking water. This was all the more striking because the greatest increase in chronic disease mortality in Taiwan since 1970 has been due to diabetes. Because the dysregulation caused by a chronic latent magnesium deficit is probably more important than clinical hypomagnesaemia in the pathogenesis of diabetes, this may suggest that dietary magnesium (including that in a water supply) is protective against diabetes and its dreaded complications.

The concentration of intracellular free magnesium in erythrocytes is a more sensitive marker in people with diabetes and insulin resistance than are plasma levels of magnesium. Decreased levels of free intracellular magnesium in erythrocytes have been reported in the majority of patients with type 2 diabetes. Resnick and Associates suggest that extra cellular and intracellular magnesium deficiency is typical in chronic, stable, mild type 2 diabetes and may be a strong predisposing factor for the development of the excess cardiovascular morbidity associated with diabetes. These investigators showed that the levels of serum, ionized, magnesium and erythrocyte, intracellular free, magnesium were significantly lower in 22 untreated patients with type 2 diabetes and and mild hyperglycemia than they were in 30 healthy control subjects (P<.001) Serum total magnesium was not reduced.

MAGNESIUM LOSS AND INSULIN RESISTANCE

Among its many actions, insulin stimulates the transport of magnesium from the extra-cellular to the intracellular compartment. Using atomic absorption spectrophotometer and the euglycemic hyperinsu-linemic glucose clamp technique, Paolisso and associates showed that plasma magnesium levels declined and erythrocyte magnesium levels rose significantly (P<.05) in response to insulin in fasting healthy adults with no family history of diabetes. Insulin resistance, central to type 2 diabetes, is associated with reduced intracellular magnesium and can be mitigated with magnesium. It has been demonstrated that insulin resistance in skeletal muscle can be reduced by magnesium administration. Reduced magnesium levels in diabetes are caused by several factors (Figure 2). The link between magnesium deficiency and the development of diabetes is strengthened by the observation that several treatments for type 2 diabetes appear to increase magnesium levels. Metformin, for example, raises magnesium levels in the liver. Pioglitazone, a thiazolidinedione antidiabetic agent that increases insulin sensitivity, increases free magnesium concentration in adipocytes.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS OF LOW MAGNESIUM LEVELS

Reduced intake and reduced levels of magnesium may lead to increased atherosclerosis. In addition, lower serum magnesium levels have been associated with increased likelihood or progression of retinopathy in type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Epidemiologic data suggest that populations with low magnesium intake are at increased risk for hypertension, stroke, and other manifestations of atherosclerotic disease. In the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study, for example, dietary magnesium intake was inversely correlated with ultrasonographically measured carotid artery wall thickness, which is a surrogate marker for atherosclerosis.

ORAL MAGNESIUM: VALUE OF A HIGH INTAKE

There are potential benefits supporting the use of magnesium supplementation in persons who have diabetes or risk factors for diabetes (Table 3). Increased magnesium intake is associated with decreased risk of developing type 2 diabetes in populations. In a prospective study of almost 85,000 women, the relative risk of diabetes for women in the highest quintile of magnesium consumption was 0.68 when compared with women in the lowest quintile. (Figure 2). Oral magnesium supplementation is contraindicated in patients with significant renal impairment. Higher dietary intake of magnesium was among the factors associated with a reduced risk of stroke in men with hypertension. In a survey of almost 45,000 men ages 40 to 75, the overall risk of stroke was significantly lower for men in the highest quintile of intake of potassium, magnesium, and cereal fiber, but not of calcium, compared with men in the lowest quintile of intake (Figure 2). A similar relationship was reported this year by Meyer and Colleagues, who observed that a diet rich in magnesium, grains, fruits, and vegetables reduced the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes in a group of almost 36,000 women. While no consistent effect of magnesium on blood pressure has been noted among persons with diabetes, a significant blood pressure reduction was noted in diabetic patients with hypertension after dietary sodium was replaced with potassium and magnesium.

BIOTIN

People with type 2 diabetes often have low levels of biotin. Biotin may be involved in the synthesis and release of insulin. Preliminary studies in both animals and people suggest that biotin may help improve blood sugar control in those with diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes. More research in this area would be helpful.

ZINC OXIDE

Scientists at Notre Dame* and at the U. of Illinois have discovered that zinc has an insulin-like effect on the manifestation of diabetes. Insulin, they note, promotes the transport of glucose and amino acids (proteins) and decreases the breakdown of muscles while healthfully enhancing their buildup. “Failure to enhance glucose transport, ” they say, “into insulin-sensitive cells is a hallmark of diabetes [emphasis added]. They have found that zinc enhances this glucose movement.

MANGANESE

Although results have been conflicting, some research suggests that people with diabetes have significantly lower levels of manganese in their bodies than people without diabetes. It is not clear however, whether this is a cause or effect of the condition. In other words, researchers have yet to determine whether diabetes causes levels of manganese to drop or if deficiencies in this trace element actually contribute to the development of the metabolic disorder. In addition, one study found that diabetics with higher blood levels of manganese were more protected from oxidation of LDL (”bad”) cholesterol than those with lower levels of manganese. (LDL oxidation contributes to the development of plaque in the arteries which can lead to heart attack and stroke.) Further studies are needed to determine whether supplementation with manganese helps prevent and/or treat diabetes and its associated complications. (E4)

 

References:

E1 – (Excerpt);  E2 – (Excerpt); E3 – (Excerpt); E4 – (Excerpt)