Health Wellness Center|Workplace Wellness|South Africa

Nutriceutical (Food as Medicine) Range

Formulated by Dr Arien van der Merwe MBChB FRIPH FRCAM MISMA

· to destroy free radicals to prevent cellular damage, retard ageing, ensure optimal function of all systems

· prevent the oxidation of LDL-cholesterol, thereby preventing damage to arterial lining that lead to thickening of the arteries

· suppress and neutralise the effect of carcinogens thereby preventing cancer cell growth

· Vitamin E and selenium are essential for a healthy immune system. They improve T-cell and humoral (B-cell) immunity

· Vitamin E and selenium are recommended for people suffering from Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and for the prevention of breast, lung, uterine and stomach cancer

· Even subtle, marginal deficiencies of these very important trace elements weaken the activity of all enzymes, resulting in reduced immune function and sluggish destruction of free radicals.

· These trace minerals are essential for efficient blood sugar control and therefore optimal energy utilisation and carbohydrate metabolism within the body, mind and emotions. They are essential in the management of insulin resistance, low blood sugar and diabetes mellitus (high blood sugar)

· Potent antioxidant that improves blood circulation in those with diabetes mellitus, variocose veins, arterial insufficiency, heart and lung health challenges

· Prevents platelet clotting and reduces the viscosity of blood, making blood more fluid

· Helps in the prevention and treatment of heart attacks, thrombosis and stroke by increasing oxygen supply to the damaged tissue

· Also protect the nerve cells and improves memory and intellectual functions in older people

· Also recommended for winter hands & feet, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), vertigo (dizziness) and impotence

· Iodine is essential for the formation and function of thyroid hormones that govern metabolism

· Contains catechins which provide protection against LDL-cholesterol oxidation and suppress the growth of many types of cancer.

· Catechins provide protection from the damage of free radicals caused by air pollution and smoking.

· Potent antiageing antioxidant that delays and slows down the ageing process and age related diseases

· Commonly used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus, to assist the liver’s detoxification function

· Provides protection against cancer, atherosclerosis (thickening of the arteries) and other cardiovascular (heart, arteries, veins) diseases

· It is an immune system stimulant and antioxidant that also reinforces the function of vitamin E and vice versa.

· It is recommended for people with cardiovascular (heart, arteries, veins) disease

· Beta and other carotenes act as antioxidants on their own and they are also converted to vitamin A as and when the body needs it

· Improves the body’s resistance to infections, especially in the respiratory system

· Carotenes and vitamin A protect the body against the damage of free radicals from smoke and other pollutants

· Is properly best known for its role in collagen production. Collagen gives structure to the subcutaneous tissue and protects the structure of the skin

· Reduces the risk of atherosclerosis by ingesting free radicals and preventing the oxidation of LDL-cholesterol, thereby preventing the deposit of LDL-cholesterol into the artery lining.

o Improve the permeability of the capillaries, thereby allowing oxygen and nutrients to enter even into the sub cellular tissue

Amino acid chelated minerals are well absorbed and bio-available to the body’s cells and systems (compared to mineral salts). Calcium and magnesium are important in nearly all cell and cell membrane, function. By taking enough through food and food supplements, your body doesn’t have to leach it from your bones. This will ensure optimal bone density.

· Insures that muscles, ligaments and bones that are injured, heal more quickly

· Works in conjunction with enzymes in the body to maintain body temperature, nerve conduction, hormone activity, muscle contraction

· Research shows that hypertension and diabetes are linked to low levels of magnesium

· Low magnesium can result in slow digestion of food, increased irritability, along with tremor and muscle cramps

· Stabilizes the internal structure of the cells and is essential for nervous, cardiac and musculoskeletal function

· Helps relieve backache, slipped disks, inflammatory pain associated with arthritis and injury induced pains

· Vitamin D with calcium and magnesium is required for balance and optimal absorption of important micronutrients

Omega 6 is found in abundance in many plant species. Olive oil, grape seed, canola, wheatgerm, cotton seed, safflower and soy bean oil are rich in omega 6 oils. By taking these oils in as part of a healthy diet, it is not necessary to use omega 6 oils as a food supplement.

The diet of earlier generations was rich in omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids. The typical Western diet contains mainly omega 6 fatty acids in the form of linoleic acid, with very small quantities of omega 3 fatty acids (e.g. linseed or flax seed oil). This imbalance places a physiological burden on the human body which the specie has not yet had the time to adapt to and prepare for through genetic modification. It is therefore important to supplement the human diet with EPA and DHA (omega-3 fatty acids) in the form of cold water fish oil such as found in salmon oil. To take in a sufficient quantity in the diet alone, you would need to eat about 1 kg of oily fish (e.g. sardines, salmon, trout, mackerel) a week.

· Essential fatty acids maintain the fluidity of all cell membranes. This ensures that fluids, nutrients and oxygen can move in and waste products out of, cells.

· Essential fatty acids help the red blood cells in transporting oxygen to cells. This prevents the blood in the blood vessels from clotting, as happens in atherosclerosis, after heart attacks and stroke, thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.

· EFA’s help to suppress the inflammatory process from going on too long, for example after injury, in contact dermatitis, arthritis and other joint infections.

· EFA’s are also used to reduce blood pressure in hypertension, to decrease harmful LDL-cholesterol and increase beneficial HDL-cholesterol.

· The essential fatty acids form part of the phospholipid structure of cell membranes. This is an important function of EFA’s as part of fluid transfer through cell membranes, electrolyte balance, hormone function and the immune function. Some of the omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA, are also precursors of prostaglandins. EPA and DHA play a role in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease such as hypertension, high LDL-cholesterol, stroke and heart attacks.

Use these for disease or unease in a specific system of the body as natural therapy, or to prevent disease if a genetic weakness exists

Indications: To promote health and wellbeing, and support the heart and cardiovascular system, e.g. high blood pressure, heart failure, after a heart attack or stroke to assist in recovery, varicose veins, or to prevent these health challenges where increased genetic risk exists.

Vitamin C Is commonly used for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis and helps to reduce the risk and damage of cardiovascular disease.

Vitamin E Improves the blood flow through the small blood vessels or capillaries.
Helps the blood vessels to expand so that the blood circulation improves and the blood pressure decreases in cases of high blood pressure

Prevents the oxidation of LDL-cholesterol (the bad cholesterol) – and therefore atherosclerosis.

Note: Vitamin C and E contribute to the prevention of blood clots forming in the heart and blood vessels and helps to dissolve existing clots. Vitamins E and C prevent additional damage to the cardiac muscles and scarring after a heart attack and improve the development of collateral blood vessels for improved blood flow after a heart attack or stroke.

Folic Acid & Vitamin B12 Very important for ensuring the conversion of potentially harmful homocystein into the beneficial methionine, thereby preventing the damage to blood vessels (atherosclerosis) associated with high levels of homocystein (high homocystein is just as important a risk factor in heart disease as is cholesterol).

Alleviates ischaemia (an inadequate supply of oxygen to the heart muscle) by increasing the blood flow in those with circulatory disorders, such as angina.

Both are lipotrophic vitamins (they improve fat utilisation by cells for energy production).

Niacine Reduces LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood and helps to dilate the blood vessels in the heart.

TMG (Tri-methyl-glycine) This amino acid is converted into dimethyl glycine that

Acetyl-L-Carnitine Important for normal functioning of heart muscle and blood vessels.

Co-enzyme Q10 Abundant in mitochondria, the power generators inside cells. Heart cells contain many mitochondria as it is a very active, energy intensive organ.

Mild metabolic stimulant, increasing the body’s metabolic rate. This is useful in people on a weight loss program.

It’s recommended for people with cardiovascular disease such as heart failure, arrhythmia, cardiomyopathy and after bypass procedures.

It provides protection against atherosclerosis by preventing the formation of oxidised LDL-cholesterol that can lead to thickening of the arteries

Some studies indicate that with co-enzyme Q10 supplementation the condition of heart patients can improve clinically by up to 80%

Hawthorne Berry Common herbal remedy used in the treatment of cardiovascular disease.

(Crateagus oxyacantha) Prevents angina and lowers blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It improves

Gingko biloba It is an active anti-oxidant in the cardiovascular system. It also prevents platelet clotting and reduces the viscosity or stickiness of blood
Improves blood circulation. It helps to dilate small blood vessels (capillaries) in the extremities, thereby increasing blood flow with oxygen and nutrients to heart cells and brain

Reinforces the arterial walls and improves blood circulation. As an antioxidant it helps prevent oxidation of LDL-cholesterol and protects the blood vessels from damage done by free radicals.

It is an excellent remedy for any obstruction in the peripheral blood flow such as in Raynaud’s disease, intermittent claudication and angina.

Olive leaf extract Studies have shown that the plant chemicals in olive oil and olive leaf extract, can reduce the harmful oxidation of cholesterol as well as slow down the accelerated clumping of blood platelets that can lead to dangerous blood clots.

This herbal remedy shows potential in the treatment of hypertension, diabetes and heart disease

Indications: To promote health and wellbeing, and support the female urogenital system, e.g. during and after menopause, PMS, irregular cycles, painful periods

· Well researched for its efficacy in alleviating hot flushes by lowering levels of the luteinising hormone (LH) which is secreted by the pituitary gland, the main cause of hot flushes

· Black cohosh does not interfere with the secretion of the other hormones form the pituitary gland

· It is a general tonic (midway between plant estrogens and plant progesterones) for the female system and is often prescribed for painful menstruation, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), fatigue, menopausal symptoms and weakness after childbirth

· Maintains blood sugar levels, especially important in the management of insulin resistance

· Helps with vaginal dryness, decreased libido, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and painful periods, headaches and painful joints

· Iodine is essential for the formation and function of thyroid hormones that govern metabolism

· Supports cellular respiration and improves the oxygen utilisation of all cells.

· Used to supplement the body’s energy stores and is valuable in treating fatigue

· Responsible for the production of red blood cells, cell growth and metabolism of nerve tissue.

o Improve the permeability of the capillaries, thereby allowing oxygen and nutrients to enter even into the sub cellular tissue

o Prevent oxidation of LDL-cholesterol, thereby preventing the deposit of LDL-cholesterol into the artery lining

· Important for the treatment of skin complaints and for maintaining the function of the urogenital system

Indication: A food supplement to assist diabetics, those with insulin resistance, insulin insensitivity and metabolic syndrome (Syndrome X). It is important to understand that diabetes and heart disease often occur in the same individuals. This supplement is therefore also recommended for those with any form of heart disease, or high risk for developing heart disease.

Physical symptoms such as overweight or obesity (especially around the abdomen), high blood pressure, high cholesterol, insulin resistance or insensitivity, high cortisol levels, even depression. Metabolic syndrome is a lifestyle disease consisting of the following symptoms occurring together: high blood pressure (hypertension), high cholesterol, high fasting insulin and blood sugar (hyperglycaemia). Metabolic syndrome carries an increased risk for developing many chronic diseases, if not managed. As it is a lifestyle disease, it can be managed by lowering body mass, managing insulin, blood sugar and cholesterol levels through diet, exercise, correct food supplements and herbal remedies, as well as stress management and relaxation training. This will reduce the risk for any of the chronic lifestyle diseases, namely heart disease, diabetes mellitus, depression and osteoarthritis.

Co-enzyme QI0: is important in the metabolism of oxygen and the production of the energy molecule ATP (adenosine triphosphate). It improves oxygen consumption at cellular level. Glucose is the basic form of fuel the body uses for energy production. Diabetics and people with cardiovascular disease often have a deficiency of CoQ10.

Vit E: reduces cell damage and improves the healing of diabetic wounds. Vitamin E can also reduce the insulin requirements of diabetics. Type 1 diabetics must start with 100 IU (80mg) of vitamin E a day and their insulin dosage must be monitored carefully. The insulin can systematically be reduced as the vitamin E dose is increased to 400 IU’s (320mg) a day, the recommended maintenance dosage for type 2 diabetics.

Vit C: improves glucose tolerance and liver function. The transport of vitamin C into the cells is facilitated by insulin. Diabetics therefore often don’t have enough intracellular vitamin C.

Vit K: The vitamin K dependant protein osteocalcin may have a positive effect on reducing obesity and diabetes. Researchers writing in the journal Cells studied the effect bone cells have in energy regulation, and found that osteocalcin plays a key role in regulating insulin activity.

Chromium: is probably the most important mineral for maintaining constant blood sugar levels. It is used for the treatment of high (hyper-) and low blood sugar levels (hypoglycaemia). Chromium forms part of the glucose tolerance factor (GTF), an important molecule in the management of carbohydrate metabolism, as it improves the functioning of insulin. GTF (and hence chromium) improves the absorption of glucose in the cells so that it can be used for generating energy. GTF binds to insulin and the cell receptors to improve the absorption of glucose, thereby reducing blood sugar levels. GTF consists of one chromium molecule, two niacin molecules (vitamin B3) and three amino acids (glycine, cysteine and glutamic acid).

Many people have a marginal chromium deficiency. Supplementation is therefore essential, especially for diabetics. Diabetics, people with high LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides and even those with marginally or high normal glucose tolerance levels, should take about 400-600 micrograms of chromium a day in an amino acid chelation form. Research in the

United States

indicates that chromium supplementation significantly reduces blood sugar levels after only two months and cholesterol levels after four months. All healthy adults should take 100 - 200 micrograms and children about 100 micrograms of chromium in a supplement each day.

Chromium levels tend to decline with increasing age as a result of reduced absorption from the digestive tract. This can be one cause of type 2 diabetes. One reason for the current manifestation of chromium deficiency is the low levels of chromium in the soil. Fruit and vegetables are therefore also low in chromium. The refining process of food (white sugar and flour) also reduce the chromium content, which further reduces the chromium supply in the body. A diet which places an extra burden on the digestive tract (for example old food, greasy junk food and too much sugar) also reduces the absorption of chromium.

Chromium ensures that blood glucose levels remain constant and prevents the sweet cravings that so many people have. Chromium is also important in the maintenance of a healthy cardiovascular system. It reduces the harmful LDL-cholesterol and increases the good HDL cholesterol.

Antioxidants: The abnormal glucose metabolism in diabetics results in the production of lots of free radicals due to oxidative stress. This is one of the factors that leads to many of the side effects of diabetes. Next to chromium, antioxidants are probably the most important supplements for people with high or low blood sugar levels. It is recommended that Docs Focus Antioxidant Balance be taken with Blood Sugar Balance.

Alpha lipoic acid: plays an important role as the necessary cofactor in two vital energy producing reactions involved in the production of cellular energy (ATP). Also an effective antioxidant that neutralizes the free radicals that tend to accumulate in people with diabetes.

Mixed bioflavonoids such as quercetin, proanthocyanidin and Ginkgo biloba are strongly recommended for all diabetics. They prevent damage from the free radicals caused by the abnormal glucose metabolism (acting as antioxidants), they reduce the damage to peripheral blood vessels, they prevent loss of sight and protect all the organs (such as the brain) from increased blood sugar levels. Ginkgo biloba improves peripheral blood flow which is often impaired in diabetics. This is a contributing factor to the damage in the microvascular system found in long term diabetes. This damage is what eventually leads to diabetic ulcers, gangrene, retinopathy, neuropathy, kidney failure, etc.

Vanadium: is another mineral involved in the metabolism of glucose which can reduce high blood glucose levels. It is used in the treatment of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.

Molybdenum: the enzyme sulfite oxidase, involved in glucose metabolism, is dependent on this trace mineral.

Manganese: is a relatively unknown, but essential mineral that is involved in various enzyme systems which control the metabolism of glucose and proteins, bone formation, synthesis of L-dopamine (a neurotransmitter), cholesterol and mucopolysaccharides. Marginal deficiencies are common because of soil depletion, which leads to reduced manganese in nuts and wholegrain products.

Selenium: Selenium is a mineral that is required in very low doses forthe body to function normally. It is an antioxidant, meaningthat it prevents oxygen from damaging cells. Because of low soil levels of selenium, and hence low concentration in fresh produce, most peopleneed additional selenium. Vitamin E and selenium work in synergy within antioxidant enzyme systems. Some research suggeststhat selenium supplements can improve the way the body handlessugar and might prevent some complications of diabetes.

Gymnema sylvestre: This herb has been shown to enhance glucose control and assists in the regeneration of pancreas tissue. The islets of Langerhans in the pancreas produce insulin. It improves blood sugar control - in Type 1 & 2 diabetes. Gymnema appears to enhance the action of insulin.

Cinnamon: this wellknown spice, reduces serum glucose,triglyceride, LDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol levels in peoplewith type 2 diabetes and suggest that the inclusion of cinnamonin the diet of people with type 2 diabetes will reduce riskfactors associated with diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Fenugreek: can reduce fasting blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetics and improve glucose tolerance.

Bilberry: Bilberry fruit and leaves have been used as a treatment for diabetes in adults.

Milk thistle: can lower blood glucose and decrease complications of diabetes. It also supports the detoxification process of the liver.

L-Carnitine: improves insulinsensitivity in insulin resistant diabetic patients. A significanteffect on insulin-mediated glucose uptake is alsoobserved in normal subjects. In diabetics, glucose uptake by cells are optimized and utilized as fuel, becasueglucose oxidation is increased when L-carnitine is taken in supplement form.The significantly reduced plasma levels of lactate suggest thatthis effect might be exerted through the activation of pyruvatedehydrogenase, whose activity is depressed in insulin resistantstatus.

Indications: To promote health and wellbeing, and support the bones, muscles and joints of the body, e.g. for forms of arthritis, joint pain and swelling, muscle spasm, aches and pains, fibromyalgia, fibrositis, etc.

Glucosamine sulphate Recommended for the inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, to prevent injuries and treat aching and sore muscles and joints. It supports joint lubrication and mobility.

Chondroitin Improves the fluid content and mobility of the cartilage in the joints. In this way it improves the supply of glucose (as fuel for energy) and nutrients to the joints.
It also improves the shock absorbent function of the cartilage.

MSM (methyl sulphonyl methane) Is a natural, safe physiological active sulphur compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Used for treatment of different forms of arthritis and joint infection and inflammation.
Helps to relax tense, tired muscles and joints

Vitamin E Important in preventing deterioration of varicose veins by improving the integrity of the walls of veins.

Improves the oxygen reserves of the cardiac and skeletal muscles by restoring the anaerobic muscle function

Vitamin A Plays an essential role in maintaining surfaces of the skin and other body tissue linings as well as their secretions (cartilage and synovial fluid in joints)

Vitamin C Is essential for the formation and maintenance of collagen, which forms the basis of the connective tissue in the body. Collagen supports the skin, ligaments, bones, teeth, cartilage, arterial walls & synovial lining in joints.
Ensures that the calcium is absorbed into the osteoblasts (bone forming cell).
Also plays a role in the relief of backache, pain caused by slipped discs and all inflammatory pain associated with arthritis and exercise induced muscular and joint injuries

Helps to control the inflammatory reactions in arthritis and bursitis
It is important for the healthy nervous system and smooth joint operation.

Boron Important for the metabolism of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus, it can be used in the treatment of arthritis and hypertension because of the effect on the metabolism of calcium and magnesium.

Manganese Is involved with various enzyme systems which control the metabolism of bone formation and joint function and repair.

Note: Glucosomine, Chondroitin, Vitamin C and Manganese work in synergy to strengthen your body’s own natural healing mechanisms.

Green lip muscle This unique natural occurring substance is an essential part of any joint balance formula due to its anti-inflammatory properties

It contains natural glucosamine, chondroitin, antihistamines and phenylanaline (a pain relieving amino).

Also contains natural glycosaminoglycan content which provides a chondro- or cartilage protective activity by direct action in combining with endogenous water molecules to produce large, buffering and lubricating structures to joints

Devil’s claw Possesses anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, especially in inflammatory conditions as found in all forms of arthritis

Willow Bark Natural form of aspirin and is an effective anti-inflammatory. It can be used in tablet form for aching muscles and joints.

Curcumin Extremely effective anti-inflammatory agent that relieves pain in arthritis, ligament, joint and muscles injuries

Bromelain Enzyme found in found in the stem of the pineapple, can be used in standardized extract form to alleviate all inflammatory processes.
Especially valuable in the treatment of arthritis, sports injuries, and reducing postoperative swelling.

Note: The natural ingredients provide protection for the stomach lining while having an anti-inflammatory effect

Indications: To promote health and wellbeing, and support the male urogenital system where imbalances exist, or to prevent these from occurring, e.g. benign prostate hypertrophy, low testosterone, low libido, men over 40 years of age.

Improves blood circulation by dilating the capillaries to the male reproductive organs

This antioxidant limits damage by free radicals. By neutrilising these, production of hormones and neurotransmitters improve. This in turn is helpful in the management of impotence, fatigue and low libido.

Zinc This is the most important micronutrient for the normal functioning of the male reproductive system.

Plays an essential role in the prevention and treatment of prostate and other male reproductive cancers.

Lycopene An important nutrient for male reproductive health and to protect the prostate gland

Ginkgo Biloba Improves blood flow to the extremities, such as the penis, to assist in cases of erectile dysfunction and impotence due to decreased blood flow. It also allows arterial smooth muscle to relax, allowing more oxygen and nutrients to reach the penis, brain, hands and feet.

Pygeum Africanum Improves the production of male sex hormones and prostate functioning.
Helps prevent the accumulation of cholesterol in the prostate, an important cause of prostate enlargement.

Saw Palmetto This herbal remedy protects the prostate against the irritating effects of a surplus of testosterone, thereby being helpful in the treatment of prostate enlargement.

Stinging Nettle Acts as anti-inflammatory in prostate enlargement, gout, rheumatism and arthritis

Arginine Recommended for impotence and infertility. Research has shown that it increases the sperm count and the motility of sperm.
Supports the formation of the male sex hormones.
It also supports the formation and secretion of growth hormone in young men and is important for muscular development, muscle power and muscle tone.