Probiotics

Probiotics are bacteria and yeasts living in the canals of our bodies that play a synergistic beneficial role in health. Consumer facts, Professional facts And from the NCCIH facts 

It is only within the last few years that this relationship has blossomed in understanding and appreciation from new scientific research. Before that time, it was mainly health stores that sold acidophilus, which at first were just the ones used to culture milk into yogurt. Although after the yogurt was made, the bacteria was inactivated by heating the yogurt. Now, some yogurts are not heated or have live cultures added and this is promoted as a health benefit. The bacteria are still alive, but even dead bacteria have some value.

Living in our intestinal tracts, there are many different varieties and hundreds of strains for bacteria and a few different yeasts. These form our indigenous (bacterial) culture that develops as we are born, or at least within a few months if the birth was caesarian. Young children need to get dirty as this is how they develop this miraculous symbiotic relationship with bacteria that protects them their whole life.

After the hundreds of beneficial strains along with a few potentially hazardous ones are established as our own, a good diet plays a significant role in feeding and maintaining proper conditions to allow the beneficial bacteria and yeasts to dominate and hold the unfriendly ones in check. A poor diet allows the unfriendly ones to grow into large enough numbers to cause mischief in the digestive tract, which later can manifest into other body diseases.

PURPOSE OF INTESTINAL FLORA or BACTERIA

The health of the body is related to the proper mix of intestinal bacteria, called the microbiotia. Probiotic supplements include those bacteria that have shown to be beneficial by increasing the natural bacteria mix. The natural mix maintains a proper pH in the intestinal tract to max digestion, absorption, and assimilation processes. Certain bacteria help digest dietary nutrients and deactivate potential harmful ones. Plus, they maintain tight cell junctions to prevent intestinal leakage of pathogenic or undigested elements attempting to enter the body. These are sources of allergy processes and may propagate disease. Antibiotics destroy both pathogenic as well as beneficial bacteria and probiotics help reestablish the proper bacteria mix. 

PROBIOTIC LABELS

Buy and use only products with a proper identification code of the strain for each bacteria. These are the only products with verified scientific testing. In the ingredients BOX, the genius will be listed, such as Lactobacilius, plus also the species, Acidophilus, and then a strain identification code (ex: La-14, RO052, or NCFM) should also be attached. 

DO NOT BUY PROBIOTICS WITHOUT A STRAIN CODE LISTED.

That code is your assurance that the strain is the same one that was scientifically tested and found effective. Companies that leave off this vital fact either don't really understand probiotics or may have something to hide. Not mentioning strain codes claiming proprietary protection hides any scientific research connections for product. This limits product ingredient credibility since any competing company could use a Lab test to analyse for strain codes. Thus, the proprietary claim really is just a marketing ploy and only functions to hide quality from the consumer. Not listing the Bacteria strain code leaves the company open to changing sources and strains anytime. Scientists give bacteria a strain code for identification in research testing to make sure the same exact strain is re-tested for comparison in future work. These coded bacteria are registered with an International agency.  ref ref

SIDEBAR: Even if a strain has a documented code, it may not be effective for all probiotic functions. They have to be tested for each health condition and appropriately used. If there is no code, the effectiveness against any condition is unknown because Scientists only test coded strains. ref

Probiotic Scientists test different strains of each bacteria and give the strain that shows the most effectiveness a code name or number. This code name is your assurance that it has been tested and found effective. If no code is listed, the Brand is free to substitute any genius species of same name from any supplier whether or not it has been tested. You will not have any assurances that the bacteria is effective. Honest Brands will always list the strains code name. Research scientists would never consider using a non coded strain for research, why should you? This important reference tested 121 coded strains of Lactobacilus Plantarum from both dairy and plant sources and many L. Reuteri sources and strains to see if any were antibiotic resistant. They did not all exhibit the same level of benefits. See pages 42-50. This reference has a good description of the health problems with the over use of antibiotics in humans and feed animals starting page 13.

SAFETY OF PROBIOTIC BACTERIA

Please read this reference on safety of using probiotics. In very sick individuals, a study showed increased mortality in probiotic group. Measurements revealed the intestinal tract linings were compromised. HIGHER DOSAGES ARE NOT NECESSARILY BETTER. One test showed a 20 % reduction in number of colds at 1 billion versus only a 10% reduction at 10 billion. ONLY use documented strains that list an identification code after the name. This is your assurance the strain has been tested and found effective.

A recent development by some Companies offers numerous bacteria strains together, as many as 35. In the past 8-10 was limit. Some bacteria conflict with other bacteria. The lower number strains could test for any reactions and adjust dosages of each strain. These new increased strain number products probably have little testing for any interactions and represent a marketing story rather than a healthier product.

Examples of probiotic labels: First a not recommended label. Notice no strain codes or potency listed. A newer product label with 410 mg blend just below gives potency but still no codes. Also, listing probiotics as a blend does not give amounts for each bacteria type. Since the ingredients are listed in the order of amounts contained, the 2 foods probably make up the majority of the 610 mg blend. Probiotics are very small. 

Next Example of a Proper label, listing what looks like codes for the difference strains of bacteria and the potency of each. The next label represents a different approach. A legit probiotic company puts a code with all the same letters but different numbers that refers back to the original codes that are registered. So not sure why the original codes are not used. Have to watch out here as some companies make up their own system to look like codes but without links back to an International Probiotics registry code: ref

The problem with Companies using their own codes is that most customers cannot tell from the label if the codes are real. Plus it is difficult to comprehend why original codes would not be used since listing of these registered codes implies free support for scientific verification and validation. Even between registered and scientific studied bacteria codes there are differences which give extra value to one over the other depending upon the situation.

Another point not immediately noticeable between the proper and not recommended product labels concerns food elements added with probiotics. This dramatically increases the potential for moisture compromises and interactions between the food elements and probiotic bacteria. When food is added with probiotics, stability often suffers.

On the left is another correct label example that lists codes but not amounts plus also talks about a special matrix that protects non-refrigerated bacteria. Most aware companies use various techniques to keep the bacteria protected until it reaches the small intestinal tract. Danisco, owned by Dupont, is a rather large probiotic company supplying many food culture ingredients.

Two other probiotic companies used by vitamin companies, Institut Rosell and Chr Hansen

HOW PROBIOTIC SUPPLEMENTS WORK

There is quite a bit of "iffy" information in the marketplace on this aspect. ref  

A search of "Probiotic" company literature reveals very little real knowledge. Renew Life's first Blog on "How to buy quality" first talks about potency as "CFU" or colony forming units. !5 billion or more is given as needing to influence the body. Funny, some research shows for certain strains, 1 billion works better than 10 billion. Could there be effective factors for some code strains over others that are in play and more important than just raw CFU amounts?

In addition to the Caution below, taking large amounts of probiotics could also influence and increase urine pH, the acid level of urine. Too high acid or too low alkaline urine both can have adverse effects. The high dosages offered are meant to be taken for short periods of time, like 7 days. Dosage should not be your only criteria for picking quality probiotics. Get ones with a strain code listed after bacteria name and check for studies proving effectiveness. Here is one example   and another for GR-1 here. 

Breast Cancer and Bacteria mix

There is growing interest at looking into the mix of bacteria strains in breast cancer cases compared to non-cancer controls looking at breast tissue. The research is showing definite changes. ref ref  Watch for more soon.

Probiotics and Colon Cancer from new research  ref

PROBIOTIC OVERLOAD?

There is a condition called SIBO, small intestinal bacterial overload, where TOO MUCH of certain bacteria are growing in the intestinal tract. Sometimes this takes the form of colon type bacteria remaining or backing up into the small intestines for too long. This condition has been associated with IBS, Irritable bowel syndrome. This is why antibiotics help reduce symptoms while the return growth of bacteria increases symptoms. And of course, constipation does not help. If you have any gastric or intestinal problems, PLEASE be cautious taking the many higher potency probiotics that have emerged in the marketplace lately. Extremely high dosages should only be used for a short period of time until more on what causes SIBO, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, is discovered. At the very least, start slowly and watch body signs for adverse reactions. ref

One cause for SIBO appears to be the overuse of antacids. Many antacids are simply calcium carbonate. This form is found in many calcium supplements including the new plant source, Red Algae. Calcium carbonate neutralizes stomach acid. The problem of SIBO develops when the lower acid amount with food gets dumped into the small intestinal tract and quickly increases pH allowing bacteria to start multiplying sooner than they usually would. This extra growing time allows for too much bacterial growth before entering the large colon, especially if chronic constipation is an issue. Foods in the diet can also influence and change the type of bacteria that grows. ref

The question still to be answered; Do the new higher mega potency probiotics influence SIBO positively or adversely?

Another way SIBO can occur is from colon bacteria backing up into the small intestinal. This movement direction is not a normal occurrence and is similar to stomach acid splashing back into the throat when the normal muscles surrounding the opening spasm.

INTESTINAL BATTLES 

The 400 or more different strains of bacteria living in the average intestinal tract quickly learned or adapted to life together by about 6 months of age. A dominant hierarchy was established to control this many different strains. As long as the few dominate strains remain in control, everything works to maintain health. ref

If another strain intrudes and grows enough in numbers, a war breaks out, like in IBS. Scientists have found some non-native similar bacteria types that exhibit the ability to aid the re-establishment of the native bacteria. These bacteria do not stay in the intestinal tract very long. They are like relatives, accepted and welcomed for short periods of time.

A major issue of concern over which types of bacteria are better suited for each specific disease is being researched. Not all strains, even ones with the same name, are equal in functions. This takes research to discover. Some bacteria types simple do not work while others are very effective. And some work at low dosages while others need higher amounts.

Not very many probiotic companies list a strain code for their bacteria source. Can you imagine a Lexus car dealer not putting up a Lexus sign on the dealership building or on their cars? The strain code is assurance the strain has been tested and found effective for a desired probiotic function. Chief among these are first not to war against existing native bacteria.

SPORE-FORMING BACTERIA (CAUTION)

There are some companies that use a different strain of bacteria that is NOT native to the human intestinal tract called Bacillus. It may sometimes be found in human feces since it arrives in dirt on food. But it does not belong in humans. Bacillus are needed in soil to help plants grow. ref This type of bacteria was the major pilot nutrient for many Garden of life products. Today, there is only 1 soil organism left in GOL products. Let's see why?

They were and still are called soil organisms. But, there is one rather large unknown factor that might represent a negative aspect, they are the only bacteria type that produce spores. Spores are a form of the bacillus lifecycle that are literally indestructible. They can last in this state for thousands of years. 

While not all spore-formers are dangerous, like anthrax, in the spore form they have the ability to enter into the body and many strains of bacillus have been found associated with different tissue and organ infectious diseases.* The native human bacteria of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria, and the yeast Saccharomyces Boulardii do not normally enter the body unles they enter through a cut in the skin or sore in the intestinal tract. Probiotic companies use Bacillus type bacteria because they are almost indestructible in the spore form and survive stomach acid to show greater number of bacteria counts.

*Bacillus bacteria are spore-formers. While B. Subtilis is considered not to be disease causing, like some of its relatives, it has been found at human infection sites. The primary concern over the use of B. Subtilis as a probiotic supplement, is not that it may cause disease, but rather that it may become resistant to anti-biotics and get out of control. Yes, Bacillus bacteria do stimulate the immune system, BUT this most likely is a defensive action and only a positive function if controlled. This could be an issue for immune compromised individuals.  ref 

HOW DIET CAN INFLUENCE BACTERIA 

This is a very revealing story. It begins with cattle grazing on pasture grass and hay. The grass feeds very specific bacteria that dominate the cows many chambered stomachs and intestinal tract. This bacteria that likes grass builds healthful fatty acids that increase omega 3 and CLA content in milk and meat. BUT, an interesting twist happens when cows are in feedlots eating corn and other grains, a different type of bacteria becomes dominate that does not produce the same fatty acids and therefore there is less omega 3 fats and CLA in milk and meat from these cows. Quite a bit less. The cattle producers know this happens, and attempt to introduce grass for short periods to attempt to increase omega 3, and make the animals healthier. ref This process is called back-grounding. Beef that is mostly grass fed is a health food while corn grain feedlot fed cows produce junk food. It will not keep you healthy.

Glutathione, L-Glutamine, or Glutamic Acid

These first three amino acid products often get confused, maybe because they appear to look alike or sound similar.

Glutathione

• Glutathione exists in the body in two forms, reduced and oxidized.
• Plus it also forms at least 8 different detox enzymes with each specific to certain tissues and cells.

• Glutathione forms a vital cell detox enzyme that works in tandem with SOD to neutralize toxic ROS (reactive oxygen radicals) and H2O2 (hydrogen peroxide) radicals before they can damage cell DNA in a sequential cascading process.

• This valuable nutrient does not survive the digestive tract in one piece and therefore is essentially wasted taken orally. But it does supply the individual amino acids. ref
• At very high levels, some might enter. But any benefits might just be from the component ingredients after breakdown; cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine. Specialized formulas of glutathione have achieved blood level increases. And in blood glutathione does have value. But for intracellular functions, it might be that glutathione has to be built in the cell. Best to supply raw material for production, Vitamin C, NAC. Whey also has value to increase. Non-alcohol beer does too.
• Enzyme gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase breaks it apart in intestinal tract. 
• Intravenous, Intramuscular, or aerosol delivery methods are somewhat effective.
• Consuming the parts that go into making Glutathione is a better way to increase, i.e. N-Acetyl Cysteine and glycine. NOTE: Long term use may not be wise if thinning effects on intestinal lining is verified.
• Also try instead: Taking 500 mg of vitamin C increased Glutathione levels 50% in just 2 weeks. Exercise helps too. One study showed vitamin C lowered blood levels.
• Other nutrients involved: alpha lipoic acid, glutamine, methionine, SAM-e, B6, riboflavin, selenium, and whey protein.
• Glutathione protects red blood cells.
• Glutathione is active when it forms many vital phase II detoxification enzymes, glutathione peroxidase is main one, responsible for binding and eliminating toxic heavy metals, pesticides, and other toxins such as solvents. (1-8)
• Glutathione Peroxidase also supports proper cellular division, mitochondrial antioxidant protection, and also gets involved in cancers ref and diabetes.
• A new supplement uses a process that wraps Glutathione in a wheat protein that the body recognizes and absorbs. This protects glutathione from destruction in the digestion process. While this does increase blood levels, it does not mean an increase in cellular levels. The large size of Glutathione dictates that is has to be built inside each cell according to a prominent Scientist working with this nutrient. Here is a good report on studies.
• Animal studies showing benefits used very large dosages. Enough maybe to supply the parts for the body to use in producing an increase in it's own Glutathione.
• Glutathione forms a vital cell detox enzyme that works in tandem with SOD to neutralize toxic ROS (reactive oxygen radicals) and H2O2 (hydrogen peroxide) radicals before they can damage cell DNA in a sequential cascading process.
• Possible considerations (and theories) for supplements of Glutathione. article
• The bottom line from a leading researcher; the body needs to build glutathione inside cells from component parts. Getting it into the blood from very large amounts orally is still not getting it into the cells. Whey protein is known to naturally increase levels. Vitamin C and exercise may be best way to increase.

L-Glutamine

Glutamine, the most abundant amino acid in the blood and tissues, has a role in these body processes:

• Protein synthesis
• Regulation of acid alkaline balance by producing ammonium in the Kidneys 
• Transports ammonia to body tissues
• Source of carbon in the citric acid cycle
• Body energy source after glucose
• Supplies Nitrogen for numerous body processes 

Glutamine is produced mainly by muscles, plus some in brain cells and also lungs. This makes it a non-essential amino acid. Through the above functions, Glutamine helps protect the cells lining the intestinal tract and thus has value in digestion. One way is to help maintain the gut barrier to kept out unwanted foreign invaders.

The chief use of Glutamine has been to assist in the recovery from illnesses and surgery. Another use for this amino acid is during intensive exercise when it changes to a conditional essential amino acid and more is needed from the diet and supplements than the body can produce. There is some research that Glutamine may increase HGH (human growth hormone) levels.

PRECAUTION for Glutamine 

There is an enigma between cancerous tumors and Glutamine. Glutamine promotes tumor growth, plus cancer cells trap and hold Glutamine so the body becomes deficient. In this case, the body begins to break down muscle protein to release glutamine for body functions. Thus, Scientists have attained positive results giving extra Glutamine to cancer patients to help maintain muscle mass and the regular Glutamine body support functions, even through this also somewhat promotes tumor growth. Since the body makes Glutamine anyway and cancer cells trap it, the thinking is that you cannot afford to withhold dietary Glutamine sources without severely jeopardizing vital body functions and vital muscle size. Muscle wasting is a profound result of cancer progression. There is ongoing research to discover the proper body support amount to limit adverse tumor promotion. Since this is controversial, the precautionary approach is in place for Glutamine until this issue is settled. ref  ref

WORKSHOP NOTES - Behind the Scenes look at Possible Adverse Effects from Glutamine.

The list of possible adverse effects from Glutamine treatment are the result of Healthcare Professionals reports using Glutamine in clinical settings where effects are noted. This is to show that dietary supplements at therapeutic amounts may have both benefits as well as some adverse effects that need to be watched. One potential effect from ammonia production is explained here. It is important to note that many of the observed effects may have other causes since patients on glutamine could be quite sick and taking numerous other drugs at the same time. This is from: Drugs.com. This info is directed towards Healthcare Professionals and usually not seen by patients. You will soon see why! Remember, many of these are from therapeutic amounts and often injected into the body.

"Cardiovascular

Cardiovascular side effects have included chest pain (19%) and vascular disorder (11%).

Gastrointestinal

Gastrointestinal side effects have included nausea (13% to 31%), vomiting (11% to 19%), abdominal pain (11% to 25%), tenesmus (6% to 33%), flatulence (22% to 25%), hemorrhoids (6% to 11%), dry mouth (6% to 11%), pancreatitis (6% to 11%), constipation (11%), aggravated Crohn's disease (11%), gastric ulcer (11%), and gastrointestinal fistula (11%).

Musculoskeletal

Musculoskeletal side effects have included back pain (6% to 11%), arthralgia (31% to 44%), and myalgia (11% to 13%).

Respiratory

Respiratory side effects have included rhinitis (7% to 19%), laryngitis (11%), and pharyngitis (11%).

Psychiatric

Psychiatric side effects have included depression (11% to 22%).

Other

Other side effects have included peripheral edema (11% to 81%), facial edema (44% to 50%), generalized edema (13%), enlarged abdomen (11%), pain (6% to 19%), vascular disorder (11%), female breast pain (6% to 11%), vaginal fungal infection (11%), increased sweating (13%) and ear or hearing symptoms (13%).

Immunologic

Immunologic side effects have included fever (6% to 22%), chills (11%), malaise (13%), flu-like disorder (6% to 11%), viral or bacterial infection (6% to 19%), sepsis (6% to 20%), and moniliasis (13%).

Metabolic

Metabolic side effects have included dehydration (11% to 19%), and thirst (11%).

Dermatologic

Dermatologic side effects have included rash (7% to 11%) and skin and appendage disorders (11% to 13%).

Local

Local side effects have included injection site pain and/or injection site reaction (11% to 31%).

Nervous system

Central nervous system side effects have included dizziness (6% to 13%), hypoesthesia (6% to 11%), insomnia (11%) and headache (6% to 11%).

Genitourinary

Genitourinary side effects have included pyelonephritis (11%) and renal calculus (11%).

Hepatic

Hepatic side effects have included abnormal hepatic function (11%)."  end of copy material.

SUMMARY

This listing of possible adverse effects is mentioned here to reveal an important aspect of supplements. Nutrients at regular dietary amounts can be handled properly by body systems. BUT, at very large treatment amounts there is a higher likelihood of upsetting body harmony by interfering with natural body processes. Often this interference is in another body part rather than the one under observation. Such as how taking calcium to protect bones may end up getting deposited in arteries and increase calcification and CVD risk. It is important to note that calcification occurs at all intakes of calcium which indicates that other processes are also at play such as vitamin K2.

Glutamine may have benefits in given situations, illness, surgery recovery and intense exercise, but may not be necessary in healthy individuals getting sufficient protein.

GLUTAMIC ACID

Here is a good reference and a study that explain the differences between Glutamic Acid and L-Glutamine, which are essentially the same base with one building a side chain of 2 added ammonia elements. Thus, they can be made from each other. Glutamic acid forms ions and salts (glutamates), such as MSG for monosodium glutamate used to enhance flavor in food, often resulting in adverse reactions in some people. 

Since Glutamic acid helps build L-Glutamine, it is associated with many beneficial roles, especially in brain functions. BUT, there is a potential dark side. It is classified as a neurotransmitter which may turn into a neurotoxin if over activated, especially if it gets outside brain cells. ref This increased excitement can lead to nerve structure damage. Thus there is a dilemma of whether or not to use MSG in foods or large amounts of supplemental Glutamine that can turn into glutamate inside brain cells. In fact, there is a lot of glutamate inside brain cells where it is relatively harmless.  

There are certain people who do have an allergic reaction to foods containing MSG with symptoms similar to a heart attack, pain and stiffness in neck and arms. The US Government has analyzed dietary MSG from foods and aspartame and says it does not present a problem in the amounts normally consumed. The neurotoxicity is another story. This could be one reason the American diet is not healthful. Too many foods that contain higher amounts of glutamine; wheat, corn, dairy, etc.

Of Interest: During the manufacturing of some protein powders, like whey, the process of hydrolyzation naturally produces some MSG. Hydrolyzed proteins are easlier to digest, often used during surgery recovery.

BLUE GREEN ALGAES

Known to children swimming in the local watering hole as pond scum, these algae became a fast growing segment of the health food industry in the late 60's. They do have some health values ref ref , but let's get right to the main point: DO NOT CONSUME BLUE GREEN ALGAE FROM OPEN WATER SOURCES. No lakes, etc. unless an independent lab has verified purity. There is a very high likelihood of heavy metal contamination. Consider only if grown in special controlled manmade ponds from such brands as Hawaiian Pacifica and Earthrise Spirulina. ref General values ref

ANOTHER POSSIBLE CONTAMINATE

In open water situations, there is also a higher probability of contamination from a certain cyanobacteria, microcystis aeruginosa, which is hepatoxic. It is associated with liver cancer as a tumor promoter. Oregon Health officials tested 87 supplements and drinking water samples some time ago and 85 had traces of this contaminate. 63 samples were over the safe limit set by the health department. Another area  of the Country was tested and 50 of 50 samples showed this cyanobacteria, especially in lakes with farm runoff since fertilizers provide a good growth medium.

The safe level for this contaminate was set at 1 milligram per gram of supplement. Drinking water was set at 1 PPB, parts per billion. One supplement had over 20 mg/G. These cyanobacteria produce microcystin which has been associated with numerous cases of deaths to humans and livestock. A tragic case of contamination a few years ago caused quite a stir in Brazil when over 50 kidney dialysis patients died. In China, areas where the drinking water contains increased levels, there are higher rates of liver cancer. Over time, even safe levels may accumulate and cause minor symptoms. An association might not be made to this contamination source. And people differ in abilities to fight off the effects of this cyanobacteria.

MAN-MADE PONDS HELP PREVENT CONTAMINATES

While lake sources now have stricter testing procedures, at this point, it is wise to only use blue green algae from the manmade controlled sources to minimize possible risk. Plus, if this is not reason enough, there is always the heavy metal contamination issue, i.e. lead, cadmium. Some characteristics of blue green algae actually help protect against heavy metal contamination, possibly from detox methods, but best not to add more from unclean algae.

CHLORELLA

Another algae, Chlorella, was investigated by an Oncologist, Dr David Steenblock. He discovered that Chlorella given to his cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy reduced the degree of their adverse side effects.  He assumed this benefit might be due to Chlorella's high chlorophyll content and some of the other phytonutrients with Liver detox functions or blood building aspects. He wrote a book about his discoveries entitled, CHLORELLA. More research and testing is ongoing. ref

Caution: Due to the concentrations achieved in algae supplements and green cereal grasses, a little goes a long way in supplying nutrients. Higher amounts could pose dangers from heavy metals and also this toxic cyanobacteria unless purity is consistently checked. Make sure the Brand you choose verifies by testing products.  ref   Not an endorsement for this product, just the info. At 60% protein, algae supplements are not able to be super concentrated unless part of the protein is also removed. Protein cannot be concentrated. Algae mainly just have water removed in the drying process to get to a powder.

Of Interest: Algae is being studied for use as a bio-fuel source. An Oregon coal plant is using collected waste air pollutant CO2 to increase algae growth for this purpose. ref Remember plants take in CO2 and give off oxygen. Algae is a floating plant that has numerous health Benefits when purity is maintained. One advantage of algae is that it produces a low molecular weight protein that has great ability to cross the blood brain barrier and help protect brain nerve cells. ref ref ref 

NOTE: Elements found in some algaes look like vitamin B12. They are mostly puesdo-vitamin B12 forms that are not biologically active in humans. These forms are found along side active B12 in humans, foods, and supplements.  ref

Update on Friday, August 19, 2022 at 4:55PM by Team RightWay

HUMAN POLLUTION FROM EXCESS PROTEIN

Now, there is a new concern about algae blooms. People* may be eating an excess of protein foods. This increases the amount of nitrogen in urine which through the sewers can end up in the ocean, lakes, and rivers. A high fat low carb diet also adds to protein nitrogen load. Nitrogen acts like a fertilizer for algae. Algae blooms use up available oxygen in the water that impacts the health of fish and other living sea animals and plants. article Funny how seemingly unrelated conditions pop up unexpectedly. article  article

*While this also applies to waste from farms and ranch animals as well, the findings in the last reference above meausred city sewage waste water.  

Brand Analysis - New Chapter

For the most part, New Chapter, a foodform vitamin company,  makes very high quality supplements. The major advantage of New Chapter supplement formulas is their lower dosages and some quality herbals in base. They have a great sounding marketing story, especially about herbs from their Costa Rica farm and the resulting support for the local culture.

UPDATE 11-2016  Both New Chapter and MegaFood have recently changed labels to accurately reflect what is really in their multiples. Some synthetics added and cultured in growing yeast. With an honest label, both are now excellent rated multiples.   The following is copied from their website:

"Do you know what your supplements are made of?

New Chapter supplements are whole food. Easily recognized and absorbed.  New Chapter vitamin, mineral and herbal supplements are a whole-food complex – something your body easily recognizes and absorbs. Sourced from nature’s bounty of organic fruits, vegetables, herbs and superfoods and cultured in probiotics to deliver the full spectrum of Nature’s benefits.

This is a very big deal.

Because the whole truth about most of the conventional vitamins, minerals and supplements on the shelves is that they are synthetic chemical isolates. Our bodies understand and seek nourishment from whole food. Synthetic chemical isolated forms of nutrients lack the full spectrum of Nature’s benefits and, frankly, we prefer the real thing to a synthetic version of the real thing. Who wouldn’t? 

Gentle on your stomach because they’re food

Because New Chapter’s vitamins, minerals and herbs are a whole-food complex, they’re gentle on your stomach. So gentle that you can even take them on an empty stomach. In fact, we don’t even consider them food supplements, They’re supplemental food." - end of copy

Beware: Taking these vitamins "on an empty stomach" is simply a marketing ploy. It would be very unwise to do so. The digestive system would not be fully stimulated and active to properly prepare and absorb vitamins without food triggers, especially the fat soluble vitamins. Smelling food and the chewing motion are part of digestive triggers.

ANALYSIS of New Chapter website info: Great sound bites. Let's look at one of the concepts mentioned here. About being like food and easily absorbed: First, while many vitamins in food enjoy good absorption, there are some vitamins that are not better absorbed in food than their supplement counterparts. At normal absorption levels, a Scientist discovered that over 2.5 mg. of synthetic vitamin B2 will turn urine yellow. But then food servings rarely contain levels over 2.5 mg. Using this method, New Chapter's "natural food source" vitamin B2 was tested to see if it would turn urine yellow. It is reported that New Chapter's multiple vitamins with vitamin B2 do not turn urine yellow, therefore they must be all natural. Some say the body is attempting to quickly eliminate the unnatural synthetic B2 and that is why it turns urine yellow.

Well, a simple test of taking double the dosage of a New Chapter multiple containing about 5.2 mg of vitamin B2, did turn urine yellow. True, not quite as bright a yellow as the same amount of synthetic. Thus, this means one of the following assumptions must be true; either New Chapter's vitamin B2 is not all natural, or that natural food vitamin B2 will turn urine yellow, or that New Chapter's multiple with just over 2.6 mg of B2 is absorbed at a lower percentage than the same amount of synthetic B2, which is why it does not turn urine yellow with just one serving. Turns out all of these statements are probably almost correct.

SYNTHETIC, NATURAL, or a Combination of the two for New Chapter VITAMINS

Now, does it come as a shock to you that New Chapter vitamins are not all natural, especially since they imply in their statement above that they prefer natural vitamins over synthetic. The second statement cannot be verified in this simple test since New Chapter's vitamin B2 is not all natural, it is largely if not all from synthetic added to growing yeast cells. New Chapter says the yeast cells "bio-transforms the synthetic into a more natural vitamin structured form. See foodform. Regarding the last assumption, since the B2 starts as synthetic, and at 2.6 mg does not turn urine yellow, New Chapter's B2 absorption must be less than the same amount of a typical synthetic B2, therefore New Chapter's tablet breakdown rate could be at fault. Since their research studies stress greater absorption than regular synthetic vitamins, there could be another scenario at play. It is known that some food vitamins are released slower than synthetic isolated supplement vitamins, maybe this is the case. But that would not fit with their better absorption promotional story. A true dilemma.

There is only one premise left that New Chapter can stand on: The yeast culturing process used does turn the synthetic B2 added to the growing yeast into a compound that is more like a natural food B2 vitamin, a structurally complex form. And, either or both, reduced absorption and or greater retention by the body play a role so the body needs greater amounts before it will turn urine yellow, which it did at just over 5 mg. At least as it did in this simple test. One of the following statements now needs to be verified: New Chapter's vitamin B2 form is absorbed at less than the synthetic rate, or that the body retains more of New Chapter's B2 than it does of the same amount of synthetic B2. New Chapter would like you to believe the latter and their research charts support this view. It is true that some synthetic vitamins are eliminated from the body faster than the same amount of natural vitamins in food. The body does recognize some synthetic vitamins as different and speed elimination, but others not as much.

New Chapter has obviously found a way to turn a synthetic vitamin B2 into a structured form that behaves more like a food vitamin than a synthetic vitamin. Why do they go to such lengths to downplay the fact that they start out feeding yeast cells synthetic vitamins if the preceding statement is indeed true? Wouldn't the "bio-transformation" accomplish the same food form effects and be acceptable for a sound marketing story?

UPDATE: New Chapter sold out to Proctor & Gamble.  While there has been a lot of statements made in support by New Chapter and P&G spokespeople that the products would remain the same, the bottom line is that profits from your purchase of New Chapter products now go to support P&G. A company that is completely opposite of New Chapter's philosophy and commitment of harmonizing with Mother Earth. This is not a good fit and could result in future negatives. With the New Chapter purchase, P&G is trying to undo the damaged image it generated by selling products that pollute the earth and use animals for product testing. Plus, it is still involved and associated with major destructive companies, such as Monsanto developing GMO products.

COMPARISON:  New Chapter vs Garden of Life vs MegaFood

In order of quality: New Chapter, MegaFood, and Garden of Life. Why? New Chapter has the best quality controls, Garden of Life not as much, or at least not from past analysis. It is possible for a company to improve quality. Garden of Life started out promoting products with many soil bacterial organisms, but today there is just one soil bacteria left. If these soil bacteria were such beneficial ingredients, why is there only one remaining? What happened to change their formulas and their story? Questionable quality controls and untested and not GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) soil bacterial ingredients. Did the new FDA reporting requirements for adverse effects play a role? MegaFood is a step above Garden of Life in quality but both use a marketing story that is FULL of HOT AIR.

UPDATE:  Garden of Life currently, Feb 2016, has a recall in place for their RAW MEALS which showed salmonella contamination. Over 2 dozen people have so far taken ill in 20 States and a few required hospitalization. One ingredient in product was found to be contaminated with salmonella. ref

MAJOR ISSUES

Whole food-like vitamins may still prove additional values over isolated synthetic or natural vitamins, but there are two real issues. First, why do these companies feel the need to hide what is really in their products? The fact that the starting process feeds yeast with some synthetic vitamins is rarely mentioned. New Chapter quickly skims over it but does mention it, while MegaFood goes to language extremes to hide it with a very mis-leading label method. Garden of Life developed a whole new story, the CODE, to explain it without mentioning this fact. Why do you think this is the case? Vitamin store clerks are told that the vitamins are all natural from food and pass on that fallacy like it was factual to customers. 

Second, since these companies do not tell you the form of the vitamin they add to the growing yeast, the real aspect of vitamin form on quality issues is difficult to determine. They would be within rights to use all synthetic forms since the label does not indicate starting form. It would save quite a lot of money as these products are very expensive to make. THEY DO add in some SYNTHETICS somewhere in the manufacturing process.

So, back to generalities, if a company or companies go to such lengths to mask some aspect of production, are they trying to hide something, some part of the story that may jeopardize the validity of their products? Like Brands that do not list a strain code for their Probiotic bacteria. The strain code is a mark of quality and science tested effectiveness. Why hide this fact if a Brand is using a quality source bacteria?

This has been going on for so long now that the impact if the truth went viral may draw ethical questions about the vitamin industry as a whole. Check out this article where Garden of Life now admits the truth to promote their new vitamin products, the Kind Organics. 

TAKE AWAY 

New Chapter products have some extra values from proper dosages and increased absorption, regardless of starting forms. A simple test could establish the comparison with isolated synthetic vitamins by measuring how each increases the blood levels of the coenzyme form of the vitamin in question. The coenzyme vitamin is the form used by the body to perform that vitamin's functions. The tests so far have shown that the increased absorption is really the beneficial aspect for most of the foodform nutrients.

Caution: Since most of these products use yeast in the production process, potential allergy reactions are a possibility. The Companies say the yeast is completely neutralized by an enzymatic process to dissolve the yeast cell membranes, but there may still be some allergic people that could react. When beginning to take these products, start small amounts for the first 5 days as that is the period when existing allergies would surface. Allergies can develop later from over exposure as well, although quite rare.

Two Issues New Chapter needs to clear up 

• New Chapter promoted a CoQ10 product with a marketing concept that is partially flawed. They hired a Scientist to conduct tests to show their low dosage, 22 mg. CoQ10 product is equal in antioxidant activity to a larger amount of regular CoQ10, 100 mg. This test result appears to not be available on their website anymore. The test did not compare apples to apples but rather apples to apple leaves. The NC 22 mg CoQ10 comes with 800 mg of plant material. The test compared 100 mg of each CoQ10, thus the NC CoQ10 also came with now 4000 mg of plant material. Dropped into a test tube, this 4000 mg of plant material blocked the interchange of oxygen from getting to the test agent which of course reduced oxidation, showing their CoQ10 provided better protection, or antioxidant activity.  In the plain CoQ10, the lack of any plant material allowed free range of oxygen to oxidize the agent, showing the plain CoQ10 was not very effective as an antioxidant. 
• Now, CoQ10's antioxidant activity is really secondary to it's main function of electron transfer into the power plants of the cell to aide energy production. So, how does 22 mg compare with 100mg? Since NC 22 mg is absorbed about 3x better than plain CoQ10, one would have to take 3 times more of the plain to equal the same electron transfer activity of New Chapter's CoQ10. Therefore, 66 mg of plain coQ10 would equal 22mg of NC CoQ10 for this function. 

Omega 3 Fats

While Omega 3 fats have almost reached legendary supplement status as fish oils EPA and DHA, the truth is the body needs only the following two essential fatty acids;

1. Linoleic acid (LA), an omega 6 fatty acid

2. Alpha Linolenic Acid (ALA). an omega 3 fatty acid

The Omega 3 fatty acids EPA and DHA  from fish and algae are often mentioned here and since the body can build them from ALA, they are not considered essential. BUT, some, perhaps many, people have difficulty converting ALA into enough EPA and DHA, some fish or algae source is probably wise. Fish get or gain omega 3 fats by eating algae, krill, or smaller fish.

Modern dietary food choices and processing methods have changed over the last century that dramatically reduced omega 3 fatty acid consumption while increasing omega 6 from vegetable oils. Wise Nutritionists often talk about a ratio or balance needed between omega 6 and 3 since the reduction in omega 3 can play a major role on declining health. Perhaps the largest decrease in omega 3 came about as cattle left the grass pastures and entered corn grain feedlots. This reduced omega 3 and increased omega 6 in beef fat by a factor over 3, from a ratio of 1 to 4 down to 1 to 15. The bacteria in the cow changes with grain feeding and this bacteria produces less omega 3 in beef. 

Of a cautious note: A new study suggests that women should not use high dosages of Omega 3. It may upset fatty acid balance. Therefore, the goal is to find the most efficient omega 3 format that gives greater benefits than taking a higher amounts of lower quantity omega 3. Krill oil fills this bill. The little Krill are a vital food chain link for many Ocean Fish. Krill oils contain some phospholipids instead of only fatty acids in the triglyceride make up that may give them extra benefits over regular fish oils. ref

Omega 3 oils contain different degrees of EPA and DHA structured fatty acids. As fish oils are concentrated during processing, their structure changes. Omega 3 fatty acids are needed for both energy production and cell membrane integrity. Membranes surround cells to protect cells and allow nutrients to be transported into and waste products out of cells. Nerve cells in the brain contain large amounts of DHA. While all fish oils supply omega 3 for energy, the ability to build healthy brain cell membranes is sometimes low to begin with or altered during processing. This is where Krill show greater effectiveness over other fish sources and processing methods.

CAUTIONARY NOTE: Fish oils and other unsaturated fatty acid oils are very large molecules making them extremely perishable. ref  These large fat molecules are susceptible to the process of lipid (fat) peroxidation. They should be refrigerated to prevent rancidity from this process as well as they need to be protected in the body with some extra antioidants, like Vitamin E or CoQ10. Buy bottles of smaller softgel numbers and handle appropriately. High fish oil dosages should be monitored by a Doctor. While the native people of Alaska have little heart disease due to abundant omega 3 oils, they do suffer more strokes from the effect of omega 3 thinning blood. ref

OMEGA 3 TO 6 BALANCE

There is now a lot of research on omega 3 fish oils and their beneficial effects on cardiovascular disease. Omega 3 helps reduce inflammation that is generally increased by too much omega 6 from vegetable oils. So, there is a tendency to call omega 3 fats "good" and omega 6 fats "bad" which is unfortunately, an incorrect picture. Both omega 3 and omega 6 are essential for health. ref ref

But, there is a balance between the two that should be respected. ref Plus, there are good omega 6 sources and some not so good ones, like in French Fries. Prepared foods often have altered fats called trans-fats, listed as partially hydrogenated oil. Beef and eggs in the old days contained a lot of omega 3 fat but not so today.

The good omega 6 fats are as responsible as omega 3 for controlling inflammation. One omega 6 in particular, arachidonic acid, is thought to be the bad guy and, yes, it is directly involved in producing pro-inflammatory elements. But, as nature often does with bad guys, there is a positive role that arachidonic acid plays as well.

One way, Arachidonic acid helps regulate neuronal activity. To control the bad guy image, nature uses the level of omega 3 EPA to balance out the good and bad in Arachidonic acid. Thus, this is the reason a balanced ratio is needed between omega 6 and 3 lower than 6:1, with 4:1 looking ideal. In the diet today, it can often be over 20:1. It may be that just a certain amount of omega 3 is needed to control the cascade of omega 6 into pro-inflammatory elements and the exact ratios are less critical. Or that a reduction in the bad types of omega 6 will also help without achieving an exact ratio, as well. ref ref