While most people are familiar with vitamin C’s role in promoting immune health, its lesser-known role is promoting cardiovascular health through its interactions with nitric oxide (NO) and the blood vessel lining, or endothelium. Vitamin C (also referred to as ascorbate) plays a beneficial role in promoting endothelial function and maintaining vascular integrity.  Collagen Synthesis Vitamin C promotes endothelial cells to proliferate and to form capillary-like structures in vitro, likely due to its ability to increase the synthesis of type IV collagen, which is required for basement mem ..read more

Nitric oxide (NO) is recognized as one of the most important molecules produced by the body. It was named “Molecule of the Year” by Science in 1992, and in 1998, the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded to the three U.S. scientists responsible for its discovery. Nitric oxide is a messenger molecule that plays a role in nearly every organ system in the body, regulating hormone secretion, nutrient metabolism, cardiac contractility, immune function, and cognitive health. One of NO’s most recognized functions is serving as a vasodilator to promote healthy blood pressure and blood flo ..read more

Cardiovascular health is influenced by modifiable factors that include inflammatory status. Abnormal inflammatory responses that lead to chronic inflammation are associated with the development and progression of many cardiovascular-related pathologies.  During the process of endothelial cell damage, oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses are interconnected. The activity of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is linked to many inflammatory pathways that influence endothelial health and vascular function. During the inflammatory process, endothelial cells undergo major changes, which incl ..read more

Oxidative stress is linked to many chronic illnesses throughout the body; including atherosclerosis and many other cardiovascular diseases. Oxidative stress is caused by an overaccumulation of free radical reactive oxygen species (ROS). The body contains a complex system to control the balance of ROS. This system is composed of molecules and enzymes required for healthy antioxidant activity. These include antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and glutathione.  Glutathione is considered the body’s “master” antioxidant and is critical for the maintenance of antioxidative balance, deto ..read more

Functional nutrition bars are supplemental bars that provide essential nutrients and potentially offer clinical benefits to various bodily systems. They may promote bone, joint, skin, gut, nail, and immune health and may support athletic performance. Beyond their convenient delivery format and delicious taste, supplemental functional nutrition bars may also play a role in supporting overall metabolic health.  Clinical studies have explored the potential benefits of nutrition bars to athletes. In a cross-over pilot study, 12 elite athletes were provided nutrition bars post-exercise for fi ..read more

Magnesium is an essential mineral that serves as an enzyme cofactor for more than 600 reactions in the body, including harnessing energy from carbohydrates. Unfortunately, magnesium (Mg) insufficiency is common in the United States due to the widespread use of demineralized water and soil and the increased consumption of processed foods. Stress, excessive alcohol consumption, gastrointestinal disorders, and certain medications further deplete Mg status. It has been shown that unhealthy Mg status is associated with the incidence of diabetes, a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by dysreg ..read more

Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) are a type of molecule, often derived from coconut oil, that may help promote optimal cellular energy and athletic performance through the unique way they are metabolized in the body. MCTs are digested and absorbed differently than other fats. They are more readily oxidized in the liver and converted to ketones, even in the presence of dietary carbohydrates. MCTs are absorbed directly into the portal vein from the intestine and delivered to the liver, bypassing conventional fat entry into the bloodstream via the lymphatic system, which makes them a quick sour ..read more

Zinc-L-carnosine (ZnC) is a chelated compound containing the dipeptide L-carnosine and the essential trace element zinc. Human trials and animal studies have demonstrated the ability of ZnC to promote gastrointestinal (GI) mucosal barrier function through its demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Both zinc and L-carnosine individually promote proper wound healing. However, combining them as ZnC is understood to be superior to either alone, as L-carnosine may help enhance zinc absorption and the delayed or extended release of zinc to tissues.  Zinc is required for ove ..read more

It has been shown that L-glutamine, an amino acid, is vital for maintaining a healthy gut barrier function. The health of the gut barrier's mucosal epithelium is critical for proper digestion and absorption of essential nutrients. The mucosal epithelium also serves as a structural and immunological barrier against a wide range of potential toxins, allergens, and pathogens that enter the gut lumen. The Importance of a Healthy Gut Barrier Function The gut mucosa is lined with rapidly proliferating epithelial cells that endure constant damage from daily functioning. Under normal conditions, gut ..read more

Silicon is present in all healthy tissues in the body, including hair, skin, and nails. But as part of the aging process, the cellular presence of silicon decreases over time. Evidence suggests that certain micronutrients such as silicon may help support cellular health and potentially prevent age-related skin changes. Silicon helps promote the synthesis of proteins related to skin health. It plays an important role in collagen synthesis in skin fibroblasts. When bound to glycosaminoglycan in the extracellular matrix, silicon may stimulate crosslinking and synthesis of proteins such as elasti ..read more