Bacillus coagulans , formerly incorrectly referred to as Lactobacillus sporogenes , is a gram-positive bacterium of the family Bacillaceae that has the ability to form spores . The spores allow it to multiply in the intestines for a certain period of time and thus show its effect for longer . It is generally considered safe by the FDA.  

What is Bacillus Coagulans for

Bacillus coagulans is used as a probiotic. Probiotics are living microorganisms that, in certain quantities, offer health benefits. Thanks to its ability to form spores, it has a better chance of survival than other traditional probiotics such as Lactobacillus for example. The beneficial effects of the bacterium that have been discovered so far and are interesting as a probiotic are:  

• Digestive aid: B. coagulans produces various enzymes that help us with digestion and bowel movements. Sometimes enzymes that can digest lactose, so that lactose intolerance can be relieved  
• Antibacterial activity: B. coagulans produces antibacterial substances that inhibit the growth of pathogenic intestinal bacteria and instead allow beneficial bacteria to grow better in our intestines  
• Immune system regulation: B. coagulans can normalize the activity of the immune system and thus have a positive effect on the immune system  

More specific health benefits found in studies  

• Cholesterol reduction: B. coagulans lowers blood cholesterol and has reduced weight gain on a fatty diet in mice.  
• Inhibition of inflammation: By regulating the immune system, adding B. coagulans to mice protected against inflammation and oxidative damage in the intestine. The probiotic also showed a positive effect on the immune system in immunosuppressed mice, as can happen after chemotherapy.  
• Rheumatism patients: This, together with the anti-inflammatory properties of the bacterium, indicated in a study that pain and symptom improvement in rheumatism patients whose joints are inflamed.  
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Since B. coagulans has a good regulating effect on our intestinal microbiome, with which many diseases are associated, taking this probiotic in patients with the chronic intestinal inflammation “Irritable Bowel Syndrome” (IBS), which causes pain and Significantly reduced flatulence and improved quality of life by reducing other symptoms of the disease. A possible trigger for intestinal-related diseases can sometimes be the more frequent use of antibiotics, as this can disrupt our microbiome.  
• Antibiotic-associated problems: B. coagulans prevented microbiome disruption and antibiotic-associated diarrhea in 71% of children, while in the experimental group it was only 38%.  
• Skin health: In addition, an improvement in skin appearance and skin aging was discovered in mice when B. coagulans was consumed.

Comparison with other probiotics  

Bacillus coagulans differs from other probiotics such as Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium in its ability to form spores. These spores are extremely heat and acid resistant, allowing Bacillus coagulans to survive passage through the acidic stomach and reach the intestines in active form. In comparison, many other probiotics are more sensitive to stomach acid and require special coating techniques to effectively enter the intestines.  

Recommended dosages and instructions for use  

The optimal dosage of Bacillus coagulans may vary based on individual health status and desired effect. Generally, dosages in dietary supplements are between 1 and 2 billion colony forming units (CFU) per day. For specific uses, such as the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome, higher dosages may be appropriate.  

Nutritional recommendations to support the effect  

A diet rich in fiber supports the effects of Bacillus coagulans , as prebiotics such as fiber promote the growth and activity of probiotic bacteria in the intestine. Foods such as whole grains, vegetables and fruit are recommended. In addition, care should be taken to ensure adequate fluid intake.  

Which AgilNature® products contain Bacillus coagulans? 

*Nutrient Reference Value = Percentage of the reference value according to Appendix XIII of the Food Information Regulation (EC) No. 1169/2011.  

** No recommendation available.  

*** CFU = colony forming units  

Literature: 

1. Lee NK, Kim WS, Paik HD. Bacillus strains as human probiotics: characterization, safety, microbiome, and probiotic carrier. Food Sci Biotechnol. 2019 Oct 8;28(5):1297-1305.  
2. Jiang Cao, Zhiming Yu, Wenyin Liu, Jianxin Zhao, Hao Zhang, Qixiao Zhai, Wei Chen, Probiotic characteristics of Bacillus coagulans and associated implications for human health and diseases, Journal of Functional Foods, Volume 64, 2020, 103643, ISSN 1756- 4646.  
3. Aminlari, L., Shekarforoush, SS, Hosseinzadeh, S. et al. Effect of Probiotics Bacillus coagulans and Lactobacillus plantarum on Lipid Profile and Feces Bacteria of Rats Fed Cholesterol-Enriched Diet. Probiotics & Antimicro. Prot. 11, 1163–1171 (2019).  
4. Hun L. Bacillus coagulans significantly improved abdominal pain and bloating in patients with IBS. Postgrad Med. 2009 Mar;121(2):119-24.  
5. La Rosa M, Bottaro G, Gulino N, et al. [Prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhea with Lactobacillus sporogens and fructo-oligosaccharides in children. A multicentric double-blind vs placebo study] Minerva Pediatrica. 2003 Oct;55(5):447-452.  
6. Gupta AK, Maity C. Efficacy and safety of Bacillus coagulans LBSC in irritable bowel syndrome: A prospective, interventional, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study [CONSORT Compliant]. Medicine (Baltimore). 2021 Jan 22;100(3):e23641.  
7. Wang Y, Lin J, Cheng Z, Wang T, Chen J, Long M. Bacillus coagulans TL3 Inhibits LPS-Induced Caecum Damage in Rat by Regulating the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB and Nrf2 Signal Pathways and Modulating Intestinal Microflora. Oxide Med Cell Longev. 2022 Feb 7;2022:5463290.  
8. Zhao Z, Sun M, Cui X, Chen J, Liu C, Zhang Sci Rep. 2023 Jul 10;13(1):11181.  
9. Mandel DR, Eichas K, Holmes J. Bacillus coagulans: a viable adjunct therapy for relieving symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis according to a randomized, controlled trial. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2010 Jan 12;10:1.  
10. Hiramoto K, Kubo S, Tsuji K, Sugiyama D, Iizuka Y, Hamano H. The Effect of Bacillus coagulans Induced Interactions among Intestinal Bacteria, Metabolites, and Inflammatory Molecules in Improving Natural Skin Aging. Dermatopathology (Basel). 2023 Sep 28;10(4):287-302.  

Overview

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that occurs as plant-based vitamin K1 and vitamin K2, which can only be produced by bacteria and is therefore found in animal and fermented products and is also formed in our intestines thanks to intestinal bacteria. It is heat-stable and therefore little is lost when cooking and heating. Our body has only small stores of vitamin K and therefore has a mechanism with which it can “recycle” the vitamin and use it several times.  

Vitamin K is mainly important for blood clotting and healthy bones. As a coenzyme, it enables other enzymes in our body to function. It allows blood to clot and therefore prevents uncontrolled bleeding by using it to produce clotting factors.  

It is needed to transport calcium, the main component of our bones, from the blood to the bones and is therefore essential for strong, healthy bones. Due to the role of the vitamin in calcium regulation and some studies, it is also assumed that vitamin K2 has a positive influence on the cardiovascular system.  

Vitamin K2 – the most important tasks in brief  

The following vitamin K2-related health claims have been evaluated and approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) through scientific studies:  

• Vitamin K contributes to normal blood clotting 
• Vitamin K contributes to the maintenance of normal bones 

Your daily need for vitamin K2 

The DGE recommends an intake of 70 µg vitamin K per day for young male adults. For young women, 60 mcg per day is recommended. Older people over 50 have increased needs. This is 80 µg for men and 65 µg for women.  

Vitamin K2 is found in animal products such as milk and dairy products, meat and eggs.  

A vitamin K deficiency in adults is rare because it is found in numerous foods, is produced in our intestines and is reused. However, there is a risk of deficiency with some medications as well as some diseases such as liver damage, fat malabsorption disorders, inflammatory bowel disease and cystic fibrosis.  

However, since there is little vitamin K in breast milk and due to insufficient storage, newborns have an increased risk of vitamin K deficiency.  

There are currently no known harmful effects to higher vitamin K2 intake.  

How a vitamin K2 deficiency can manifest itself  

A deficiency can lead to problems with blood clotting, which manifests itself in bleeding such as bleeding from the gums and nose and very heavy menstrual bleeding. Bruising is also easier. It poses a fatal risk in newborns, as bleeding in the skull is also possible.  

Deficiency has also been linked to some diseases such as: cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, cancer and dementia.  

Which AgilNature products contain vitamin K2? 

*Nutrient Reference Value = Percentage of the reference value according to Appendix XIII of the Food Information Regulation (EC) No. 1169/2011.  

Literature: 

1. Vitamin K. DGE. https://www.dge.de/forschung/referenzwerte/vitamin-k/ (accessed on December 17, 2023)  
2. "Vitamin K". Corvallis, OR: Micronutrient Information Center, Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University. July 2014. https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/vitamins/vitamin-K (accessed December 17, 2023)  
3. Ren L, Peng C, Hu X, Han Y, Huang H. Microbial production of vitamin K2: current status and future prospects. Biotechnol Adv. 2020 Mar-Apr;39:107453.  
4. Hariri E, Kassis N, Iskandar JP, Schurgers LJ, Saad A, Abdelfattah O, Bansal A, Isogai T, Harb SC, Kapadia S. Vitamin K2-a neglected player in cardiovascular health: a narrative review. Open Heart. 2021 Nov;8(2):e001715.  
5. Halder M, Petsophonsakul P, Akbulut AC, Pavlic A, Bohan F, Anderson E, Maresz K, Kramann R, Schurgers L. Vitamin K: Double Bonds beyond Coagulation Insights into Differences between Vitamin K1 and K2 in Health and Disease. Int J Mol Sci. 2019 Feb 19;20(4):896.  
6. Přemysl Mladěnka et al.: Vitamin K - sources, physiological role, kinetics, deficiency, detection, therapeutic use, and toxicity. In: Nutrition Reviews. Volume 80, No. 4, March 10, 2022, pp. 677-698.  
7. Mladěnka, P., Macáková, K., Kujovská Krčmová, L., Javorská, L., Mrštná, K., Carazo, A., Protti, M., Remião, F., Nováková, L., & OEMONOM researchers and collaborators (2022). Vitamin K - sources, physiological role, kinetics, deficiency, detection, therapeutic use, and toxicity. Nutrition reviews, 80(4), 677-698.  
8. Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006 (Health Claims)  

Overview

Vitamin D is used as a generic term for a group of fat-soluble vitamins. These include vitamin D3, cholecalciferol, and vitamin D2, ergocalciferol. Vitamin D precursors are present in our body from which vitamin D can be formed under sunlight, more specifically under UV-B radiation. In contrast to other vitamins, the main source is not food, but rather the body's own production.  

The main function of vitamin D is to participate in calcium and phosphate metabolism. By promoting the absorption of calcium and phosphates from the intestine and increasing calcium levels in the plasma, vitamin D ensures bone mineralization. It is primarily important for bone hardening, but the vitamin is also involved in numerous other metabolic pathways and gene regulations. It is involved in the immune system and also influences muscle strength.  

Vitamin D – the most important tasks in brief  

The following vitamin D-related health claims have been evaluated and approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) through scientific studies:  

• Vitamin D contributes to the normal absorption/utilization of calcium and phosphorus. 
• Vitamin D contributes to normal calcium levels in the blood. 
• Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal bones. 
• Vitamin D contributes to maintaining normal muscle function. 
• Vitamin D helps maintain normal teeth. 
• Vitamin D contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system. 
• Vitamin D plays a role in the process of cell division. 

Your daily need for vitamin D 

The German Society for Nutrition e. V. sets a daily requirement of 20 µg per day. Adolescents and adults only consume an amount of 2-4 µg per day through food. The DGE recommends supplementation if there is no self-synthesis (especially in the winter months), as the intake of vitamin D through food is not sufficient to ensure the desired daily supply.  

Vitamin D is found in food, especially in fatty sea fish such as salmon, herring or mackerel. Eggs can also be a good source. Some mushrooms are grown under special conditions so that they can sometimes be rich in vitamin D. There is also margarine enriched with vitamin D. However, sufficient intake through food cannot be guaranteed. The main source remains the body's own vitamin D synthesis, which, however, requires sufficient sunlight.  

In our latitudes, sunlight is not sufficient for sufficient vitamin D synthesis, especially between October and Easter. In addition, we make it difficult for our bodies to have adequate contact with the sun's rays by wearing clothes and staying indoors, even in summer. Therefore, it is important (especially during the cold and dark season) to help our body to achieve or maintain a good vitamin D blood level through supplementation. Since vitamin D is fat-soluble, you should also consume a little healthy fat when taking vitamin D supplements for optimal absorption of the vitamin.  

Vitamin D can also be overdosed, but only through excessive intake of preparations and not through the body's own synthesis. Long-term intake of more than 100 µg per day can lead to an overdose. An overdose may result in elevated blood calcium levels, hypercalcemia, which may be associated with polyuria, constipation, muscle weakness, confusion and coma. It is therefore important to adhere to the recommendations when taking the preparations.  

How a vitamin D deficiency can manifest itself 

A vitamin D deficiency manifests itself physically primarily in a disruption of healthy bone growth. If the bones are not sufficiently mineralized during childhood, they remain soft and can become deformed. This also means deformations of the skeleton. This condition is known as rickets in children. Even in adults, demineralization due to vitamin D deficiency can lead to softening and deformation of the bones, a condition known as osteomalacia. This disease is accompanied by severe bone pain and muscle weakness. Another disease that can occur is osteoporosis. The bone mass is lower and the bones are slightly hollower and more porous on the inside, which leads to the bones becoming slightly brittle. A connection between vitamin D deficiency and non-bone-related diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes, as well as cardiovascular or cancer diseases is currently being investigated.  

A link between the deficiency and neurocognitive disorders such as depression, anxiety disorders, dementia and ADHD is still under investigation.  

Which AgilNature products contain vitamin D? 

*Nutrient Reference Value = Percentage of the reference value according to Appendix XIII of the Food Information Regulation (EC) No. 1169/2011.  

Literature: 

1. Vitamin D. DGE. https://www.dge.de/forschung/referenzwerte/vitamin-d/ (accessed on December 15, 2023) 
2. Chang SW, Lee HC. Vitamin D and health - The missing vitamin in humans. Pediatric Neonatol. 2019 Jun;60(3):237-244. 
3. Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006 (Health Claims) 
4. RKI - Gesundheit AZ - Answers from the Robert Koch Institute to frequently asked questions about vitamin D. (nd). https://www.rki.de/SharedDocs/FAQ/Vitamin_D/Vitamin_D_FAQ-Liste.html (accessed on December 15, 2023) 
5. Vieth R. Vitamin D supplementation: cholecalciferol, calcifediol, and calcitriol. Your J Clin Nutr. 2020 Nov;74(11):1493-1497. 
6. DeLuca HF. Overview of general physiological features and functions of vitamin D. Am J Clin Nutr. 2004 Dec;80(6 Suppl):1689S-96S. 
7. Vitamin D: How to take it correctly. Health Center. https://www.zentrum-der-gesundheit.de/ernaehrung/vitamine/vitamin-d-uebersicht/vitamin-d-die-rechte-einnahme (accessed on December 15, 2023) 
8. Rizzoli R. Vitamin D supplementation: upper limit for safety revisited? Aging Clin Exp Res. 2021 Jan;33(1):19-24. 
9. Lewis, JL, III. (2023, October 26). Hypercalcemia. MSD Manual Professional Edition. https://www.msdmanuals.com/de-de/profi/endocrine-and-metabolic-diseases/elektrolytst%C3%B6rungen/hyperkalz%C3%A4mie  
10. Roy NM, Al-Harthi L, Sampat N, Al-Mujaini R, Mahadevan S, Al Adawi S, Essa MM, Al Subhi L, Al-Balushi B, Qoronfleh MW. Impact of vitamin D on neurocognitive function in dementia, depression, schizophrenia and ADHD. Front Biosci (Landmark Ed). 2021 Jan 1;26(3):566-611.  
11. Geng C, Shaikh AS, Han W, Chen D, Guo Y, Jiang P. Vitamin D and depression: mechanisms, determination and application. Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2019;28(4):689-694.  
12. Akpınar Ş, Karadağ MG. Is Vitamin D Important in Anxiety or Depression? What Is the Truth? Curr Nutr Rep. 2022 Dec;11(4):675-681.  

Overview

Vitamin B2, better known as riboflavin, is a water-soluble, light-sensitive vitamin. It is a precursor of coenzymes, which are important for the correct functioning of our enzymes. It is therefore involved in numerous metabolic processes in the body. Since it is essential, it must be consumed through food to ensure proper functioning of the body.  

Riboflavin is the precursor of the important coenzymes FAD and FMN. In our body it is converted into these and is important for cell function, growth and development. Once in the form of coenzymes, it helps enzymes in energy and protein metabolism function. In addition, it is also involved in the metabolism of the other B vitamins. Thanks to its anti-oxidative properties and influence on anti-oxidative enzymes, the vitamin helps the body against oxidative stress that comes with aging.  

Myelin is a layer that surrounds our nerves and enables the nerve fibers to conduct impulses quickly. Riboflavin is involved in the formation of this myelin and is therefore also essential for the nervous system.  

Riboflavin – the most important tasks in brief  

The following vitamin B2-related health claims have been evaluated and approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) through scientific studies:  

• Riboflavin contributes to normal energy metabolism. 
• Riboflavin contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system. 
• Riboflavin contributes to the maintenance of normal mucous membranes. 
• Riboflavin helps maintain normal red blood cells. 
• Riboflavin helps maintain normal skin. 
• Riboflavin helps maintain normal vision. 
• Riboflavin contributes to normal iron metabolism. 
• Riboflavin helps protect cells from oxidative stress. 
• Riboflavin helps reduce tiredness and fatigue. 

Your daily need for riboflavin 

The DGE recommends an intake of around 1.1 mg riboflavin per day for adolescents and adult women. For men, the recommended intake is slightly higher at 1.4 mg per day. Pregnant and breastfeeding women also have an increased need of 1.3-1.4 mg per day.  

Riboflavin is mainly found in animal foods. In offal such as liver and kidney as well as fish and milk and dairy products (some types of cheese such as whey cheese, Camembert, mountain cheese, Emmental). Plant sources include seeds, nuts, legumes, various vegetables (e.g. broccoli, kale) and whole grains. Since the vitamin is very water-soluble, large amounts of riboflavin can be lost during preparation if the cooking water is not used.  

A riboflavin deficiency alone does not usually occur and is accompanied by other nutrient deficiencies. Older people, women who take the pill, those taking other medications such as psychotropic drugs and alcoholics are more at risk of a deficiency because the body can absorb less riboflavin. People with a vegan diet also have a higher risk of deficiency.  

Since our body simply excretes excess riboflavin, there are no known negative effects from increased riboflavin intake.  

How a riboflavin deficiency can manifest itself  

A riboflavin deficiency can lead to inflammation of the oral mucosa and tongue, cracks in the corners of the mouth and scaly eczema, as well as hair loss. Since a lack of the vitamin impairs iron absorption, severe deficiency can lead to anemia and associated symptoms such as weakness. Due to riboflavin's involvement in the metabolism of other B vitamins, this can also be impaired if there is a deficiency.  

Which AgilNature products contain riboflavin? 

*Nutrient Reference Value = Percentage of the reference value according to Appendix XIII of the Food Information Regulation (EC) No. 1169/2011.  

Literature: 

1. Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) DGE. https://www.dge.de/forschung/referenzwerte/riboflavin/ (accessed on December 15, 2023) 
2. Suwannasom N, Kao I, Pruß A, Georgieva R, Bäumler H. Riboflavin: The Health Benefits of a Forgotten Natural Vitamin. Int J Mol Sci. 2020 Jan 31;21(3):950. 
3. Olfat N, Ashoori M, Saedisomeolia A. Riboflavin is an antioxidant: a review update. Br J Nutr. 2022 Nov 28;128(10):1887-1895. 
4. Plantone D, Pardini M, Rinaldi G. Riboflavin in Neurological Diseases: A Narrative Review. Clin Drug Investig. 2021 Jun;41(6):513-527. 
5. Mahabadi N, Bhusal A, Banks SW. Riboflavin Deficiency. 2023 Jul 17. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. 
6. Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006 (Health Claims) 

Overview

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a collective term for several vitamin-active, water-soluble compounds that have the same biological function. It can only be produced by microorganisms and is therefore mainly found in animal foods thanks to the food chain. Some plant-based foods contain vitamin B12 analogues, which we cannot utilize and can even worsen the supply of vitamin B12.  

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is an important coenzyme in human metabolism. This means that many enzymes that carry out various metabolic steps rely on vitamin B12 and cannot function without it. On the one hand, the vitamin is important in regulating the homocysteine ​​concentration in the blood. Homocysteine ​​is an intermediate product in our body that must be broken down quickly because it increases the risk of thrombosis and cardiovascular disease. Vitamin B12 ensures the breakdown of this substance. Another cobalamin is involved in amino acid and fat metabolism. Another key role of the vitamin is to protect the DNA from damage by being involved in regulatory processes and also has anti-oxidative properties and thus protects the DNA from oxidative stress. Vitamin B12 is also necessary for cell division and differentiation, e.g. B. in blood formation and DNA synthesis.  

Vitamin B12 – the most important tasks in brief 

The following vitamin B12-related health claims have been evaluated and approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) through scientific studies: 

• Vitamin B12 contributes to normal energy metabolism. 
• Vitamin B12 contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system. 
• Vitamin B12 contributes to normal homocysteine ​​metabolism. 
• Vitamin B12 contributes to normal psychological function. 
• Vitamin B12 contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system. 
• Vitamin B12 helps reduce tiredness and fatigue. 
• Vitamin B12 plays a role in the process of cell division. 
• Vitamin B12 contributes to the normal formation of red blood cells. 

Vitamin B12 also works closely with folate. Folate also contributes to normal homocysteine ​​metabolism, normal immune system function, reduction of tiredness and fatigue and normal cell division.  

Your daily need for vitamin B12 

The German Nutrition Society recommends an intake of 4 µg per day for young people and adults. Pregnant women have an increased need of 4.5 µg and breastfeeding women, for whom 5.5 µg is recommended.  

Vitamin B12 is mainly found in animal foods, such as: meat, fish and seafood, eggs and dairy products. Even though vitamin B12 is found in some plant foods, such as sauerkraut, seaweed and shiitake mushrooms, it is not accessible to our body and cannot be absorbed.  

It is therefore important for people who eat an exclusively plant-based diet or only consume a small amount of animal foods to take vitamin B12 supplements to ensure sufficient supply. You can have your vitamin B12 level checked by your family doctor.  

Our body has an extensive store of vitamin B12 in the liver if sufficient intake was previously guaranteed, so a deficiency can only become apparent after a few years. If, for example, your diet did not provide enough vitamin B12, deficiency symptoms will appear earlier. People who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet are particularly at risk of a deficiency if they do not take supplements.  

Stomach and intestinal diseases can also disrupt the absorption of vitamin B12 and are therefore a risk of deficiency.  

According to current knowledge, a high intake of vitamin B12, which occurs naturally in foods, is not harmful.  

How a vitamin B12 deficiency can manifest itself  

A prolonged deficiency can lead to disruptions in cell division and DNA synthesis, which can result in anemia because blood cells can no longer be produced properly. Symptoms associated with this include tiredness, paleness and weakness. The breakdown of homocysteine ​​is disrupted in the event of a deficiency and the concentration of this compound is therefore increased. This, together with other substances that are increased due to vitamin B12 deficiency, can lead to neurological damage. Symptoms would be disorders of movement coordination, poor memory, attention deficits and depressive moods.  

Which AgilNature products contain vitamin B12? 

*Nutrient Reference Value = Percentage of the reference value according to Appendix XIII of the Food Information Regulation (EC) No. 1169/2011.  

Literature: 

1. Vitamin B12. DGE. https://www.dge.de/gesunde-ernaehrung/faq/vitamin-b12/#c3450 (accessed on December 15, 2023) 
2. Homocysteine ​​(HCYS). Health portal. https://www.gesundheit.gv.at/labor/laborwerte/blutgerinnung/homocystein.html#:~:text=Homocystein%20ist%20eine%20sulphur-containing%20Aminos%C3%A4ure,and%20Heart%2Dcirculatory%2Ddiseases. (accessed on December 15, 2023) 
3. Halczuk K, Kaźmierczak-Barańska J, Karwowski BT, Karmańska A, Cieślak M. Vitamin B12-Multifaceted In Vivo Functions and In Vitro Applications. Nutrients. 2023 Jun 13;15(12):2734. 
4. Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006 (Health Claims) 
5. Ankar A, Kumar A. Vitamin B12 Deficiency. 2022 Oct 22. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. 

Overview

Vitamin B5, better known as pantothenic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin. We get it through food, but it can also be formed from the provitamin dexpanthenol. The vitamin is involved in the building up and breaking down metabolic processes in our body.  

The vitamin is needed to form coenzyme A (CoA). This coenzyme is therefore involved in numerous metabolic processes. These include the synthesis and breakdown of fatty acids, synthesis of cholesterol, bile acids and the breakdown of carbohydrates, amino acids and alcohol. Coenzyme A also influences gene expression and cell division and is involved in the breakdown of foreign substances. It is also required for the synthesis of important neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine.  

The precursor of the vitamin, dexpanthenol, has anti-inflammatory properties and positive effects on wound healing. Studies have observed mild to moderate healing of dermatitis (chronic skin inflammation) when applied as a cream. It leads to improved barrier function as well as improved skin structure and hydration. In addition, preventive effects regarding skin irritations and skin regeneration were found. It also has positive effects on wound healing.  

In studies, the precursor dexpanthenol and pantothenic acid stimulated hair growth by stimulating the cells of the hair follicles to grow and ensuring longer survival of the cells.  

Pantothenic acid – the most important tasks in brief 

The following vitamin B16-related health claims have been evaluated and approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) through scientific studies: 

• Pantothenic acid contributes to normal energy metabolism.  
• Pantothenic acid contributes to normal synthesis and metabolism of steroid hormones, vitamin D and some neurotransmitters.  
• Pantothenic acid helps reduce tiredness and fatigue.  
• Pantothenic acid contributes to normal mental performance.  

Your daily need for pantothenic acid 

The German Nutrition Society recommends an intake of 5 mg per day for adolescents and adults. Breastfeeding women have an increased requirement of 7 mg.  

Pantothenic acid is found in animal foods such as offal, chicken eggs, fish, muscle meat and soft cheese. Good plant sources of pantothenic acid are mushrooms, peanuts, tree nuts and wholemeal flour.  

Since the vitamin is found in almost all foods, no nutritional deficiency has been observed so far. Even with a diet low in pantothenic acid, there are usually no deficiency symptoms. A deficiency can occur in cases of extreme undersupply and a gene mutation of pantothenate kinase 2 (PANK2).  

Too much pantothenic acid intake is not harmful. Mild gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea were only observed after extreme amounts of 10 g per day.  

How a pantothenic acid deficiency can manifest itself  

In the case of a deficiency that is due to an extreme undersupply, there is also a deficiency of many other vitamins, so it is not entirely possible to assign specific symptoms to a pantothenic acid deficiency. However, symptoms described include: fatigue, malaise, headaches, personality changes, numbness, muscle cramps and disturbances and nausea.  

With a PANK2 mutation, the coenzyme A concentrations are low and this is accompanied by the following symptoms: movement disorders, impaired speech motor skills, balance disorders, spasticity and muscle stiffness.  

Which AgilNature products contain pantothenic acid? 

*Nutrient Reference Value = Percentage of the reference value according to Appendix XIII of the Food Information Regulation (EC) No. 1169/2011.  

Literature: 

1. Pantothenic acid. DGE. https://www.dge.de/forschung/referenzwerte/pantothensaeure/ (accessed on December 17, 2023) 
2. Sanvictores T, Chauhan S. Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid). 2023 Jun 19. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. 
3. Shin JY, Kim J, Choi YH, Kang NG, Lee S. Dexpanthenol Promotes Cell Growth by Preventing Cell Senescence and Apoptosis in Cultured Human Hair Follicle Cells. Curr Issues Mol Biol. 2021 Sep 28;43(3):1361-1373. 
4. Wang Z, Nan W, Si H, Wang S, Zhang H, Li G. Pantothenic acid promotes dermal papilla cell proliferation in hair follicles of American minks via inhibitor of DNA Binding 3/Notch signaling pathway. Life Sci. 2020 Jul 1;252:117667. 

Overview

Vitamin B1, also known as thiamine, is the very first vitamin to be discovered. It is a water-soluble vitamin that is involved in numerous processes in the body that are important for survival. Since our body only has a very small reserve of vitamin B1, we have to consume it daily through food.  

Thiamine serves as a cofactor for some enzymes and must therefore be present so that they can carry out their functions in carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism. Thiamine thus enables our body to be supplied with energy, which is necessary for the function of all our organs. In addition, it plays a role in the transmission of stimuli in the nervous system and is therefore essential for a healthy brain. It plays a role in the formation of some neurotransmitters such as serotonin and myelin, which forms a layer around nerves to enable rapid conduction.  

Thiamine – the most important tasks in brief  

The following thiamine-related health claims have been evaluated and approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) through scientific studies:  

• Thiamine contributes to normal energy metabolism. 
• Thiamine contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system. 
• Thiamine contributes to normal psychological function. 
• Thiamine contributes to the normal functioning of the heart. 

Your daily need for thiamine 

The German Nutrition Society recommends an intake of 1.2-1.3 mg thiamine per day for adult men (19 years and older) and an intake of 1.0 mg thiamine per day for adult women. Pregnant and breastfeeding women have an increased need of 1.2-1.3 mg per day.  

Thiamine is found in animal and plant foods, especially in whole grain products such as whole wheat flour and oatmeal, in wheat germ, in seeds such as sunflower and pine nuts, in muscle meat, especially pork, and in legumes such as peanuts and peas. Since thiamine is sensitive and can easily be lost, you should cook gently to retain as much vitamin B1 as possible. This means, for example, cooking vegetables rather than frying them.  

A diet-related thiamine deficiency usually does not occur in Germany, but usually only as a result of diseases that influence the absorption and metabolism of thiamine. These would be, for example, nausea during pregnancy, gastrointestinal and liver diseases and chronic alcohol abuse.  

Nothing is known about the harmful effects of high doses of vitamin B1, as the excess thiamine is simply excreted by the body.  

How a vitamin thiamine deficiency can manifest itself  

A deficiency of thiamine leads to disruption of carbohydrate metabolism. Without thiamine, our body cannot generate enough energy to function, leading to neurological, cardiovascular and immunological disorders. Severe thiamine deficiency leads to beriberi disease. A distinction is made between dry and wet symptoms. The wet form affects the cardiovascular system. It is manifested by edema and heart failure. The dry form affects the central nervous system. It manifests itself in reflex and movement disorders, muscle weakness and loss of sensation in the extremities. If left untreated, the disease can be fatal.  

Which AgilNature products contain thiamine? 

*Nutrient Reference Value = Percentage of the reference value according to Appendix XIII of the Food Information Regulation (EC) No. 1169/2011.  

Literature: 

1. Thiamine (vitamin B1). DGE. https://www.dge.de/forschung/referenzwerte/thiamin/ (accessed on December 16, 2023)  
2. Polegato BF, Pereira AG, Azevedo PS, Costa NA, Zornoff LAM, Paiva SAR, Minicucci MF. Role of Thiamine in Health and Disease. Nutr Clinic Pract. 2019 Aug;34(4):558-564.  
3. Smith TJ, Johnson CR, Koshy R, Hess SY, Qureshi UA, Mynak ML, Fischer PR. Thiamine deficiency disorders: a clinical perspective. Ann NY Acad Sci. 2021 Aug;1498(1):9-28.  
4. Wiley KD, Gupta M. Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) Deficiency. 2023 Jul 17. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 30725889.  
5. Calderón-Ospina, CA, & Nava-Mesa, MO (2020). B Vitamins in the nervous system: Current knowledge of the biochemical modes of action and synergies of thiamine, pyridoxine, and cobalamin. CNS neuroscience & therapeutics, 26(1), 5–13.  
6. Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006 (Health Claims) 

Overview

Selenium belongs to the group of trace elements and must therefore be absorbed through food since the body cannot produce it itself. It is one of the vital trace elements. There are many stores of selenium in our body, including the liver, muscles, kidneys, blood plasma and other organs.  

Selenium as a component of many enzymes

Selenium's job is to be a component of many enzymes in our body and to enable their activity. It is therefore essential for many biological reactions in our body. Many enzymes that contain selenium have antioxidant effects and are therefore necessary to protect our cells from damage caused by radicals. Some selenium-containing enzymes are also involved in the balance of thyroid hormones and ensure healthy regulation. In men, one of the enzymes is involved in the formation of sperm and thus ensures properly regulated fertility . Other important roles are played in the immune system and brain function.  

Selenium – the most important tasks in brief  

The following selenium-related health claims have been evaluated and approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) through scientific studies:  

• Selenium contributes to normal spermatogenesis 
• Selenium contributes to the maintenance of normal hair 
• Selenium helps maintain normal nails 
• Selenium contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system 
• Selenium contributes to the normal functioning of the thyroid gland 
• Selenium helps protect cells from oxidative stress 

Your daily need for selenium 

The German Nutrition Society recommends 70 µg selenium per day for men. Women and pregnant women should consume 60 µg of selenium per day, while breastfeeding women should consume 75 µg.  

Plant sources of selenium include cabbage (e.g. broccoli, white cabbage) and onion vegetables (e.g. garlic, onions) as well as mushrooms, asparagus and legumes such as lentils. Brazil nuts have a very high selenium content. However, since these also accumulate radioactive radium, they should only be consumed in small quantities. Because the selenium content in plants depends on the selenium content in the soil, the amount varies depending on the growing region. Compared to the USA, the soils in Europe are less rich in selenium.  

In the European Union, animal feed may be fortified with selenium. In Germany, animal foods such as meat and eggs as well as fish are the more reliable sources of selenium.  

Diet-related selenium deficiency only occurs in certain rural areas with low selenium content in the soil and predominantly consumption of regional products. This particularly affects regions at high altitudes in Central Africa and Asia. In Germany, this is generally not a danger and the risk of a selenium deficiency only exists in the case of diseases that lead to lower selenium utilization or increased selenium loss. Examples of this are chronic inflammatory bowel disease, cystic fibrosis or kidney failure and chronic dialysis.  

Be careful with too much selenium 

It is important to pay attention to your selenium intake, as too much selenium can be harmful. Consuming too much selenium can lead to selenosis, which manifests itself in neurological disorders, fatigue, joint pain, nausea and diarrhea. It is also accompanied by hair loss, impaired nail formation and a characteristic garlic-like smell in the air we breathe. Acute selenium poisoning caused by the intake of several grams of selenium can lead to heart failure.  

According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), an intake of 300 µg selenium per day is tolerable for adults without the risk of harmful side effects. Since most dietary supplements contain a maximum of 200 µg per day, it is unlikely that negative effects will occur from taking supplements in Europe if you follow the instructions when taking them.  

With our selenium-containing product DetoxAgil, the daily amount of selenium when taken as directed is 55 µg and therefore 5 times less than the maximum tolerable amount of selenium.  

How a selenium deficiency can manifest itself  

Since selenium is necessary as a building block in many different enzymes, a long-term lack of selenium intake can lead to numerous, diverse damages. Neurological disorders can occur, which can also manifest themselves in depressive or highly hostile behavior. A selenium deficiency impairs the immune system and muscle function and disrupts fertility in men. In addition, the thyroid hormone balance is impaired. The heart can also be at risk if there is a deficiency. In certain regions of China, deficiency diseases such as Keshan disease (heart muscle disease) or Kashin-Beck disease (joint changes, reduced bone growth) have occurred.  

Which AgilNature products contain selenium? 

*Nutrient Reference Value = Percentage of the reference value according to Appendix XIII of the Food Information Regulation (EC) No. 1169/2011.  

Literature  

1. DGE (2018): Selected questions and answers about selenium. In: German Society for Nutrition e. V. (DGE). https://www.dge.de/index.php?id=356 (accessed on December 14, 2023) 
2. Zhang F, Li X, Wei Y. Selenium and Selenoproteins in Health. Biomolecules. 2023 May 8;13(5):799. 
3. Dou Q, Turanov AA, Mariotti M, Hwang JY, Wang H, Lee SG, Paulo JA, Yim SH, Gygi SP, Chung JJ, Gladyshev VN. Selenoprotein TXNRD3 supports male fertility via the redox regulation of spermatogenesis. J Biol Chem. 2022 Aug;298(8):102183. 
4. Shreenath AP, Hashmi MF, Dooley J. Selenium Deficiency. 2023 Oct 29. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. 
5. Biesalski, Hans Konrad; Bischoff, Stephan C.; Pirlich, Matthias; Weimann, Arved (ed.) (2018): Nutritional medicine. According to the nutritional medicine curriculum of the German Medical Association. With the collaboration of Michael Adolph, Jann Arends, Ulrike Arens-Azevêdo and Christine von Arnim. 5th, completely revised and expanded edition. Stuttgart: Georg Thieme Verlag. 
6. Johnson, Larry E.: Selenium. In: MSD Manual patient edition. Available online at https://www.msdmanuals.com/de-de/profi/nutrition-related-disorders/mineralstofflack-und-intoxikation/selen. (accessed on February 22, 2022)  
7. Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006 (Health Claims) 

Origin and history

The real sage ( Salvia officinalis ) belongs to the mint family and originally comes from the Mediterranean region. However, there are many other types of sage and the flower color varies depending on the type. It grows as a shrub up to a height of 80 cm with its characteristic aromatic smell. Traditionally it has long been viewed as a remedy. The Latin name comes from the Latin word “salvarem”, which means to save and heal.  

Characteristics

Confirmed health effects of sage on humans, according to studies so far, include pain relief, especially for sore throats, improvement in blood sugar and blood fat, through an increase in the “good” fat HDL. Sage is also considered neuroprotective and another positive influence has been found: improved memory and cognitive abilities. Researchers have also investigated this in relation to dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Here, too, patients showed an improvement in cognitive ability and memory, but more detailed studies are still needed to see sage as a real therapeutic option.  

Sage oil has a variety of health beneficial properties such as: antimicrobial, anti-oxidant, anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, anti-dementia, as well as regulating blood sugar and blood fat. The oil of another type of sage regulates menstruation, relieves tension and muscle cramps and regulates cortisol levels in women.  

Due to the anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties of sage extract, a study in mice showed that sage improves the course of chronic intestinal inflammation and could possibly also contribute to healing.  

Which AgilNature products contain sage? 

*Nutrient Reference Value = Percentage of the reference value according to Appendix XIII of the Food Information Regulation (EC) No. 1169/2011.  

** No recommendation available.  

Literature: 

1. Ellen Heidböhmer: The healing power of sage Antibacterial – Antiperspirant – Promotes digestion. Langen Mueller Herbig, 2016, ISBN 978-3-7766-8155-0  
2. Etheridge, C.J. (2021, October 4). A Science Review of Selected Essential Oils and their Botanical Ingredients. Focus on Essential Oils used for Respiratory and Calming Indications. https://www.gavinpublishers.com/article/view/a-science-review-of-selected-essential-oils-and-their-botanical-ingredients.-focus-on-essential-oils-used-for-respiratory -and-calming#  
3. Babar Ali, Naser Ali Al-Wabel, Saiba Shams, Aftab Ahamad, Shah Alam Khan, Firoz Anwar, Essential oils used in aromatherapy: A systemic review, Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, Volume 5, Issue 8, 2015, Pages 601 -611, ISSN 2221-1691.  
4. Jakovljević M, Jokić S, Molnar M, Jašić M, Babić J, Jukić H, Banjari I. Bioactive Profile of Various Salvia officinalis L. Preparations. Plants (Basel). 2019 Mar 6;8(3):55  
5. Faridzadeh A, Salimi Y, Ghasemirad H, Kargar M, Rashtchian A, Mahmoudvand G, Karimi MA, Zerangian N, Jahani N, Masoudi A, Sadeghian Dastjerdi B, Salavatizadeh M, Sadeghsalehi H, Deravi N. Neuroprotective Potential of Aromatic Herbs: Rosemary , Sage, and Lavender. Front Neurosci. 2022 Jun 28;16:909833.  
6. Dinel AL, Lucas C, Guillemet D, Layé S, Pallet V, Joffre C. Chronic Supplementation with a Mix of Salvia officinalis and Salvia lavandulaefolia Improves Morris Water Maze Learning in Normal Adult C57Bl/6J Mice. Nutrients. 2020 Jun 15;12(6):1777.  
7. Miroddi, M., Navarra, M., Quattropani, MC, Calapai, F., Gangemi, S., & Calapai, G. (2014). Systematic review of clinical trials assessing pharmacological properties of Salvia species on memory, cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. CNS neuroscience & therapeutics, 20(6), 485–495.  
8. Jalalipour M, Yegdaneh A, Talebi A, Minaiyan M. Salvia officinalis leaf extracts protect against acute colitis in rats. Res Pharm Sci. 2022 Jul 14;17(4):350-359.  

Origin and history

A culinary herb that everyone knows is parsley ( Petroselinum crispum ). It grows naturally in the Mediterranean region and belongs to the umbelliferous family. Since ancient Greece, it has been valued for its therapeutic effectiveness against a variety of ailments to this day.  

Characteristics

Parsley is a very rich source of vitamins, as just 4 g of the herb contains 5% of our vitamin C and 94% of our daily vitamin K requirement. Vitamin A and vitamin B9 are also found in increased amounts. Larger intakes should be avoided by pregnant women, as high consumption of parsley can induce labor.  

In ancient times, parsley was used as a remedy for kidney and bladder problems, flatulence and as a menstrual stimulant. The herb's essential oil has antimicrobial effects and is used to treat stress-related conditions, premenstrual syndrome and rheumatism in traditional oil therapy.  

Parsley is anti-oxidant due to the polyphenols it contains as ingredients. Studies have shown that polyphenols have anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties. Other ingredients have been shown in studies to have beneficial effects on age-related eye diseases.  

A recent study also discovered liver-protective properties of parsley extract, which are due to its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.  

Which AgilNature products contain parsley powder? 

*Nutrient Reference Value = Percentage of the reference value according to Appendix XIII of the Food Information Regulation (EC) No. 1169/2011.  

** No recommendation available.  

Literature:  

1. Vitamin overview of parsley. https://www.food-compare.com/datapanel/?item=243;0;501_4;10;vitamindata;dct;065035168031000;01000000 (accessed on December 17, 2023)  
2. Etheridge, C.J. (2021, October 4). A Science Review of Selected Essential Oils and their Botanical Ingredients. Focus on Essential Oils used for Respiratory and Calming Indications. https://www.gavinpublishers.com/article/view/a-science-review-of-selected-essential-oils-and-their-botanical-ingredients.-focus-on-essential-oils-used-for-respiratory -and-calming #  
3. "Parsley Uses, Benefits & Side Effects - Drugs.com Herbal Database". Drugs.com https://www.drugs.com/npc/parsley.html  
4. Ferreira FS, de Oliveira VS, Chávez DWH, Chaves DS, Riger CJ, Sawaya ACHF, Guizellini GM, Sampaio GR, Torres EAFDS, Saldanha T. Bioactive compounds of parsley (Petroselinum crispum), chives (Allium schoenoprasum L) and their mixture ( Brazilian cheiro-verde) as promising antioxidant and anti-cholesterol oxidation agents in a food system. Food Res Int. 2022 Jan;151:110864.  
5. Hazafa A, Rehman KU, Jahan N, Jabeen Z. The Role of Polyphenol (Flavonoids) Compounds in the Treatment of Cancer Cells. Nutr Cancer. 2020;72(3):386-397.  
6. Mrowicka M, Mrowicki J, Kucharska E, Majsterek I. Lutein and Zeaxanthin and Their Roles in Age-Related Macular Degeneration-Neurodegenerative Disease. Nutrients. 2022 Feb 16;14(4):827.  
7. Ede S, Özbeyli D, Erdoğan Ö, Çevik Ö, Kanpalta F, Ercan F, Yanardağ R, Saçan Ö, Ertik O, Yüksel M, Şener G. Hepatoprotective effects of parsley (Petroselinum Crispum) extract in rats with bile duct ligation. Arab J Gastroenterol. 2023 Feb;24(1):45-51.  

Origin & History

Molybdenum belongs to the group of trace elements and must therefore be absorbed through food since the body cannot produce it itself. It is essential in almost all living organisms. By itself, molybdenum is biologically inactive until it is incorporated into the active site of 4 human enzymes, where it serves as a cofactor. The body stores approximately 2 mg to ensure a supply of molybdenum.  

Enzymes

There are many molybdenum-dependent enzymes in the body that require the trace element complexed in their active center to function. One of these enzymes is responsible for converting sulfite to sulfate in order to keep sulfite concentrations low in our body and to allow excretion. This conversion is also required for the breakdown of the sulfur-containing amino acid cysteine, which is a component of many proteins.  

More research is needed and the exact mechanism is not yet known, but studies suggest that molybdenum supplementation may help with iron deficiency and joint pain associated with arthritis.  

Molybdenum – the most important tasks in brief  

The following molybdenum-related health claims have been evaluated and approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) through scientific studies:  

• Molybdenum contributes to the normal metabolism of sulfur-containing amino acids 

Your daily need for molybdenum 

The German Nutrition Society recommends an intake of 50-100 µg molybdenum per day for adults.  

Molybdenum is found primarily in legumes (e.g. peas, lentils, beans) and grains.  

Diet-related molybdenum deficiency is extremely rare and is not usually the cause of a deficiency. The cause of a deficiency is a rare, hereditary gene mutation.  

The tolerable upper limit for non-pregnant and breastfeeding adults, which does not result in any health effects, is 2 mg per day.  

How a molybdenum deficiency can manifest itself  

Without molybdenum, the conversion of sulfite to sulfate cannot take place in our body, causing the sulfite to rise to toxic concentrations. If a gene mutation is present in newborns, a fatal outcome is to be expected. A late-onset deficiency may manifest as acute neurological decompensation during infection. The episodes vary in nature but usually consist of altered mental status, movement disorders and uncontrollable muscle contractions, and more. These features may improve after the triggering infection resolves or may progress over the course of life.  

Which AgilNature products contain molybdenum? 

*Nutrient Reference Value = Percentage of the reference value according to Appendix XIII of the Food Information Regulation (EC) No. 1169/2011.  

literature  

1. Copper, manganese, chromium, molybdenum. DGE. https://www.dge.de/forschung/referenzwerte/kupfer-mangan-chrom-molybdaen/ (accessed on December 16, 2023) 
2. Mendel R.R. The molybdenum cofactor. J Biol Chem. 2013 May 10;288(19):13165-72. 
3. Mendel R.R. Molybdenum: biological activity and metabolism. Dalton Trans. 2005 Nov 7;(21):3404-9. 
4. Johannes L, Fu CY, Schwarz G. Molybdenum Cofactor Deficiency in Humans. Molecules. 2022 Oct 14;27(20):6896. 
5. Mayr SJ, Mendel RR, Schwarz G. Molybdenum cofactor biology, evolution and deficiency. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Res. 2021 Jan;1868(1):118883 
6. Grech BJ. Mechanistic insights into the treatment of iron-deficiency anemia and arthritis in humans with dietary molybdenum. Your J Clin Nutr. 2021 Aug;75(8):1170-1175. 

Origin and history 

Barley ( Hordeum vulgare ) is a plant species from the sweet grass family and one of the oldest types of grain that we humans domesticated for agriculture around 10,000 years ago, probably first in the Israel-Jordan region. Since then it has been grown as a staple food. It is an annual grass that reaches a height of 0.7 to 1.2 m.  

Characteristics 

Barley is a good source of fiber, vitamin B, iron and manganese. Not only does it provide nutrition and detoxification to the body, it also has some health-promoting properties due to its ingredients.  

The following barley-related health claims have been evaluated and approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) through scientific studies, provided the barley has a certain beta-glucan content:  

• Beta-glucans contribute to the maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels (barley must contain at least 1 g of beta-glucan and this effect is manifested with a daily intake of 3 g of beta-glucans from barley)  
• Consuming beta-glucans from oats or barley as part of a meal will help reduce the rise in blood sugar levels after the meal (if barley is taken with at least 4g of beta-glucan as part of the meal)  

According to studies, barley has numerous other health benefits such as anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-carcinogenic, anti-oxidative, antibacterial, anti-obesity, anti-fatigue and anti-aging effects. Based on the studies, it is known that barley grass powder plays a crucial role in preventing 20 chronic diseases.  

For example, one study showed that mice following a high-fat diet became overweight, but the group that consumed barley grass powder had significantly less weight gain. In another mouse study, barley powder attenuated tumor development.  

Which AgilNature products contain barley grass? 

*Nutrient Reference Value = Percentage of the reference value according to Appendix XIII of the Food Information Regulation (EC) No. 1169/2011.  

** No recommendation available.  

Literature: 

1. A. Badr, K. M, R. Sch, H. El Rabey, S. Effgen, HH Ibrahim, C. Pozzi, W. Rohde, F. Salamini, On the Origin and Domestication History of Barley (Hordeum vulgare), Molecular Biology and Evolution, Volume 17, Issue 4, April 2000, Pages 499–510.  
2. FoodData Central. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/170285/nutrients (accessed December 17, 2023)  
3. Sharma R, Mokhtari S, Jafari SM, Sharma S. Barley-based probiotic food mixture: health effects and future prospects. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2022;62(29):7961-7975.  
4. Obadi M, Sun J, Xu B. Highland barley: Chemical composition, bioactive compounds, health effects, and applications. Food Res Int. 2021 Feb;140:110065.  
5. Zeng Y, Pu X, Du J, Yang X, Li X, Mandal MSN, Yang T, Yang J. Molecular mechanism of functional ingredients in barley to combat human chronic diseases. Oxide Med Cell Longev. 2020 Mar 30;2020:3836172.  
6. Thatiparthi J, Dodoala S, Koganti B, Kvsrg P. Barley grass juice (Hordeum vulgare L.) inhibits obesity and improves lipid profile in high fat diet-induced rat model. J Ethnopharmacol. 2019 Jun 28;238:111843.  
7. Li J, Zhang W, Xu H, Zhou L, Guo H, Zhang S, Lu R, Liang X, Chang M, Liu C. Barley Grass Juice Attenuates Hydrodynamic Transfection-Induced HCC Initiation in Mice. Nutr Cancer. 2023;75(2):750-760.  

Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin that belongs to the vitamin B group. It is also known as vitamin B7 or vitamin H. As a coenzyme, it is involved in numerous metabolic processes in the body. This means that many enzymes that carry out various metabolic steps rely on biotin and cannot function without it. Our body cannot produce this vitamin itself and therefore it must be obtained through food.  

Biotin as a coenzyme

Biotin is used in many ways as a coenzyme and is involved in reactions within energy metabolism, fatty acid synthesis, cholesterol synthesis, gluconeogenesis and the breakdown of odd-numbered fatty acids and the amino acids leucine, isoleucine, valine, methionine and threonine. During enzyme reactions, a chemical group is transferred to other groups and biotin serves as an “intermediate holder” to enable these transfers. Thus, biotin enables the formation of fatty acids in our body, the production of sugar in our body and the production of energy from it. Without biotin, our body lacks energy.  

Additionally, biotin is involved in the regulation of gene expression, cell division and repair of DNA damage. This also results in biotin's role in the growth of blood and nerve cells, sebaceous glands as well as skin, hair and nails.  

Biotin is therefore essential for essential functions in our body and the importance is also shown in the observation of a study in which it was found that even with severe biotin withdrawal, our body downregulates the uptake and function in the liver and kidneys in order to ensure the availability for to ensure the brain.  

Biotin – the most important tasks in brief  

The following vitamin B6-related health claims have been evaluated and approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) through scientific studies:  

• Biotin contributes to a normal energy-rich metabolism. 
• Biotin contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system. 
• Biotin contributes to normal macronutrient metabolism. 
• Biotin contributes to normal psychological function. 
• Biotin contributes to the maintenance of normal hair. 
• Biotin contributes to the maintenance of normal mucous membranes. 
• Biotin helps maintain normal skin. 

Your daily need for biotin 

The German Nutrition Society recommends an intake of 40 µg per day for young people over 15 and adults. Breastfeeding women have an increased requirement of 45 µg per day.  

Biotin is found naturally in numerous foods, such as: liver and kidneys, nuts and sunflower seeds, (boiled) eggs, especially egg yolks, soybeans, oatmeal and mushrooms. Likewise milk & dairy products and multi-fruit juices.  

Diet-related biotin deficiency rarely occurs. Exceptions are if you have a very unbalanced diet with a high consumption of raw egg whites. Raw egg whites contain avidin, which binds biotin and thus prevents it from being absorbed into the body. Avidin is inactivated during cooking and therefore this problem is not found in boiled eggs.  

Reasons for impaired biotin absorption or promoted biotin degradation include high alcohol consumption, smoking and taking anticonvulsants (medications to prevent epileptic seizures).  

A biotin deficiency can also occur in a metabolic disease in which the enzyme biotinidase is missing. Biotin is not directly available to us after eating, but is bound to proteins and the vitamin must first be split off from them using the enzyme biotinidase. However, the absence of the enzyme is usually checked during newborn screening in order to enable early treatment and prevent subsequent damage and a possible fatal outcome.  

A high-dose intake of 20 mg of biotin per day has not yet shown any negative effects on people.  

How a biotin deficiency can manifest itself  

The deficiency symptoms of biotin are numerous and start with symptoms such as thinning hair with progressive loss of all hair on the body, scaly, red rash around body openings (eyes, mouth, nose, perineum), conjunctivitis, brittle nails, skin infections, general feeling of weakness, up to In advanced stages, they manifest themselves in seizures, depression, hallucinosis, abnormal sensations and developmental delay in infants. Without enough biotin, the brain's behavior changes and you feel confused and out of control. So you have many neurological disorders that can develop.  

The congenital metabolic disease in which biotinidase is missing can result in hearing and vision disorders, developmental disorders, skin changes, hair loss (alopecia), cramps, low blood pressure and ketoacidosis (hyperacidity) if not treated, as well as fatal outcomes due to the symptoms.  

Which AgilNature products contain vitamin B2? 

*Nutrient Reference Value = Percentage of the reference value according to Appendix XIII of the Food Information Regulation (EC) No. 1169/2011.  

Literature: 

1. Biotin. DGE. https://www.dge.de/gesunde-ernaehrung/faq/biotin/#c5041 (accessed on December 15, 2023) 
2. León-Del-Río A. Biotin in metabolism, gene expression, and human disease. J Inherit Metab Dis. 2019 Jul;42(4):647-654. 
3. Health insurance fund, A.-. D. (2023, May 24). Biotin: The vitamin for beauty? AOK - The Gesundheitskasse. https://www.aok.de/pk/magazin/ernaehrung/vitamine/biotin-das-vitamin-fuer-die-schoenheit/ 
4. Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006 (Health Claims) 

Origin and history

Artichokes are a type of thistle that originated in the Mediterranean, particularly in the region around the western and central Mediterranean. The ancient Greeks and Romans were familiar with artichokes and considered them a delicacy. In fact, they believed that artichokes had healing properties and used them to treat various ailments. 

The artichoke was introduced to Europe in the 15th century and then brought to the United States by French and Spanish immigrants in the 19th century. Today, California is the main producer of artichokes in the United States, and Italy is the largest producer worldwide. 

The artichoke plant is a perennial plant that can grow up to 2 meters tall and has large, pointed leaves that can grow up to approximately 1 meter long. The part of the plant we eat is the flower bud, which is harvested before it blooms. The bud consists of many small, delicate leaves surrounding a central "stinger" of immature flowers. The stinger is inedible and must be removed before consumption. 

Artichokes are a nutritious vegetable and a good source of fiber, vitamin C, folic acid and magnesium. They are also low in calories and fat. In addition to their nutritional benefits, artichokes are valued for their unique flavor and texture and are often used in a variety of dishes. 

Artichokes are a nutritious vegetable that have been consumed for centuries for their health benefits. Recent studies have highlighted some of the specific ways artichokes may support health, particularly with respect to intestinal and liver function, cholesterol levels, and antioxidant status. 

Gut health

An important benefit of artichokes is their ability to support gut health . Artichokes contain a type of fiber called inulin, which acts as a prebiotic and promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. This can help improve digestion, reduce inflammation in the gut, and support overall gut health. A 2020 study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that artichoke leaf extract may also reduce inflammation in the gut, further supporting artichoke's role in gut health. 

Liver function

In addition to its effect on the intestines, artichoke may also provide benefits for liver function . Artichokes have long been used in traditional medicine to support liver function, and recent studies have found evidence to support this use. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that artichoke extract can improve liver function in people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. This suggests that artichokes may be a useful dietary supplement for those wanting to support liver health.

Improving cholesterol levels

Artichokes can also help improve cholesterol levels . Several studies have found that artichoke leaf extract can lead to a significant reduction in total cholesterol and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. A 2018 study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research found that eight weeks of supplementation with artichoke leaf extract resulted in a significant reduction in both total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels. This suggests that artichokes may be a useful dietary supplement for those who want to support their heart health and reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease. 

Antioxidants

Finally, artichokes are rich in antioxidants , which can help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. A 2020 study published in the journal Nutrients found that artichoke leaf extract may improve antioxidant status in people with metabolic syndrome. This suggests that artichokes may be a useful dietary supplement for those looking to reduce inflammation and support overall health. 

In summary, artichokes are a nutritious vegetable with a number of potential health benefits. They can support gut and liver health, improve cholesterol levels and provide antioxidants. While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms underlying these effects, as well as the optimal dosage and duration of supplementation, incorporating artichokes into the diet can be an easy and tasty way to support overall health. 

Literature: 

1. Bae, JY, Kim, SH, Kim, SH, Heo, JD, Lee, SH, & Kim, JH (2020). Artichoke Leaf Extract Improves Inflammatory Intestinal Injury in Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated Caco-2 Cells and Experimental Colitis Mice. Journal of medicinal foods, 23(5), 471-479. 
2. Kazemi, S., Yaghoobi, N., Mozaffari-Khosravi, H., & Ghayour-Mobarhan, M. (2018). Effect of artichoke leaf extract on lipid profile and oxidative stress in hyperlipidemic subjects: A randomized controlled trial. Phytotherapy research, 32(2), 344-349. 
3. Hajiani, E., Bahreini, A., Shirzad, H., Pakdaman, H., Malekzadeh, P., & Rafiei, R. (2019). The Effect of Artichoke Leaf Extract on Alanine Aminotransferase and Aspartate Aminotransferase in Patients with Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis. Journal of medicinal food, 22(2), 201-206. 
4. Pereira, RM, De Abreu, IC, Guerra, JF, Teixeira, AM, Lima, WG, & Pedrosa, ML (2020). Artichoke Leaf Extract Enhances Antioxidant Status and Improves Mitochondrial Function and Biogenesis in the Liver of Rats with Metabolic Syndrome. Nutrients, 12(5), 1365. 
5. Mozhgan Moradi, Ghazale Sohrabi, Mojgan Golbidi, Samira Yarmohammadi, Niloofar Hemati, Marilyn S. Campbell, Sajjad Moradi, Mohammad ali Hojjati Kermani, Mohammad Hosein Farzaei, Effects of artichoke on blood pressure: A systematic review and meta-analysis, Complementary Therapies in Medicine, Volume 57, 2021, 102668, ISSN 0965-2299, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctim.2021.102668 . 
6. Panahi Y, Kianpour P, Mohtashami R, et al. Efficacy of artichoke leaf extract in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A pilot double-blind randomized controlled trial. Phytotherapy Research. 2018; 32: 1382–1387. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.6073 

Origin and history 

Acacia fiber, also known as acacia gum, is soluble fiber obtained from the sap of the acacia tree (Acacia senegal). The tree is native to Africa and grows in the dry, desert-like conditions of the Sahel, which stretches from Senegal to Sudan.  

The use of acacia fiber can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where it was used to make ink, adhesives and medicines. The Egyptians also used acacia gum as a food additive and as a binding agent for pigments in painting.  

In the 19th century, European colonizers began to recognize the potential of acacia fiber for use in the food industry, particularly as a stabilizer and thickener. Acacia fiber has also been used as a medicine to treat various digestive disorders such as diarrhea and dysentery.  

In the 20th century, demand for acacia fiber increased as the food industry sought to reduce the use of artificial additives and stabilizers. Today, acacia fiber is used in a variety of foods, including baked goods, dairy products, and beverages. They are also used as dietary supplements due to their prebiotic properties that can support digestive health.  

Acacia fiber is now produced in many parts of the world, including Africa, Australia and America. However, Africa remains the main source of acacia fiber, with Sudan and Senegal being the largest producers.  

Acacia tree

Acacia fiber, also known as gum acacia, is a soluble fiber obtained from the sap of the acacia tree. It has numerous health benefits and is becoming increasingly popular as a dietary supplement. Acacia fiber supports digestive health, reduces inflammation and prevents digestive problems such as constipation and diarrhea. They have a positive effect on blood sugar levels, reduce appetite and support weight loss.  

Prebiotic effect

Acacia fiber, a type of soluble fiber, has potential health benefits, according to recent studies. A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry examined the prebiotic effect of acacia fiber on the gut microbiota of healthy volunteers and found that acacia fiber increased the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus.  

Another study published in the journal Nutrients examined the effect of acacia fiber on body weight in overweight adults and found that taking acacia fiber resulted in significant weight loss . Additionally, a study published in the Journal of Functional Foods showed that eight weeks of acacia fiber supplementation resulted in a significant reduction in total cholesterol levels in healthy participants .  

Anti-inflammatory effect

In addition to regulating weight and lowering cholesterol levels, acacia fiber is also said to have an anti-inflammatory effect . A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food examined the effects of acacia fiber supplementation on inflammatory markers in individuals with type 2 diabetes and found that acacia fiber significantly reduced plasma levels of interleukin-6, a pro-inflammatory cytokine.  

In addition, new studies have found that acacia fiber has a positive influence on the absorption of omega-3 fatty acids in the body. The absorption is facilitated, which is beneficial for our body since omega-3 fatty acids provide numerous health benefits and reduce the risk of diseases such as cardiovascular disorders.  

Overall, these results suggest that acacia fiber may have potential health benefits for improving gut microbiota, controlling body weight, lowering cholesterol, and relieving inflammation. However, further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms behind these effects and to determine the optimal dosage and duration of acacia fiber intake.  

Which AgilNature products contain acacia fiber ? 

*Nutrient Reference Value = Percentage of the reference value according to Appendix XIII of the Food Information Regulation (EC) No. 1169/2011.  

** No recommendation available.  

Literature: 

1. López-Expósito, I., Ferrer, R., Farràs, M., et al. (2020). Prebiotic effect of acacia fiber on the gut microbiota of healthy volunteers. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 68(45), 12702-12710. 
2. Bottari, A., et al. (2018). Acacia fiber for weight management in overweight adults: A randomized controlled trial. Nutrients, 10(5), 587. 
3. Menezes, EW, et al. (2021). Effect of acacia fiber supplementation on lipid profile: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Functional Foods, 79, 104428. 
4. Noori, A., et al. (2020). Acacia fiber as a potential therapeutic option for type 2 diabetes: A randomized, double-blind, controlled trial. Journal of Medicinal Food, 23(6), 612-619. 
5. Maeusli M, Skandalis N, Lee B, Lu P, Miller S, Yan J, Talyansky Y, Li R, Reyna Z, Guerrero N, Ulhaq A, Slarve M, Theologidis I, Spellberg B, Luna B. Acacia Fiber Protects the Gut from Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL)-Producing Escherichia coli Colonization Enabled by Antibiotics. mSphere. 2022 Jun 29;7(3):e0007122. doi: 10.1128/msphere.00071-22. Epub 2022 May 18. PMID: 35582906; PMCID: PMC9241499. 
6. Slavin J. Fiber and prebiotics: mechanisms and health benefits. Nutrients. 2013 Apr 22;5(4):1417-35. doi: 10.3390/nu5041417. PMID: 23609775; PMCID: PMC3705355. 
7. Saha, Manas Ranjan, and Priyankar Dey. “Pharmacological benefits of Acacia against metabolic diseases: intestinal-level bioactivities and favorable modulation of gut microbiota.” Archives of physiology and biochemistry, 1-17. Aug 19, 2021, doi:10.1080/13813455.2021.1966475 
8. Couëdelo L, Joseph C, Abrous H, Chamekh-Coelho I, Vaysse C, Baury A, Guillemet D. Effect of Gum Acacia on the Intestinal Bioavailability of n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Rats. Biomolecules. 2022 Jul 12;12(7):975. 

Overview 

Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin that is involved in numerous processes in the body . However, the name vitamin B6 hides various chemical , vitamin-active compounds. These go by the names pyridoxine , pyridoxamine and pyridoxal . Pyridoxamine and pyridoxal are formed from pyridoxine through chemical modification. The active form of pyridoxine in the body is pyridoxal phosphate . Pyridoxine esters (a specific form of pyridoxine ) are usually ingested with food .  

The numerous tasks of vitamin B6 include participation in amino acid and carbohydrate metabolism, as well as in the formation of messenger substances and the B vitamin niacin ( 1 ) . Niacin is relevant because it is an important component for the development of many essential coenzymes in our body (2) . In the body it is required for more than 1 5 0 reactions in the body (3) . Vitamin B6 is also involved in the immune system (3) . Particularly important is vitamin B6 for the regulation of homocysteine ​​metabolism . Homocysteine ​​is an intermediate product in our body that must be broken down quickly because it increases the risk for thrombosis and cardiovascular diseases increased . Vitamin B6 is involved in this breakdown ( 4 ) .  

Vitamin B6 – the most important tasks in brief (5)  

The following vitamin B6-related health claims have been evaluated and approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) through scientific studies:  

• Vitamin B6 contributes to normal energy metabolism 
• Vitamin B6 contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system 
• Vitamin B6 contributes to normal cysteine ​​synthesis and homocysteine ​​metabolism 
• Vitamin B6 contributes to normal protein and glycogen metabolism 
• Vitamin B6 contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system 
• Vitamin B6 helps reduce tiredness and fatigue 
• Vitamin B6 helps regulate hormonal activity 
• Vitamin B6 contributes to the normal formation of red blood cells 

Your daily need for vitamin B6 (1) 

The German Nutrition Society recommends an intake of 1.6 mg of vitamin B6 per day for adult men (19 years and older) and an intake of 1.4 mg of vitamin B6 per day for adolescent and adult women. Pregnant women have increased needs. 

Vitamin B6 is found naturally in numerous foods, such as: whole grains, nuts (hazelnuts and walnuts), red peppers, sardines, mackerel and pork. Fruit juices and dried fruits also contribute to the supply. 

However, a diet-related vitamin B6 deficiency rarely occurs. If there is a vitamin B6 deficiency, it is likely that the stores of the other B vitamins (B2, B12, ...) are also relatively empty. 

Vitamin B6 can be harmful if consumed in excessive doses. To do this, however, approximately 350 times the recommended daily dose (more than 500 mg) must be consumed over the long term. This is not possible through diet and our nutritional supplements when following the recommended intake. 

How a vitamin B6 deficiency can manifest itself (6)  

A deficiency can manifest itself in many other symptoms in addition to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Neurologically, fatigue, weakness, confusion and depression may occur. 

Physically, inflammation can occur in the mouth area such as the oral mucosa, tongue or lips. Skin changes such as dermatitis or eczema are also possible. 

In pregnant women, vitamin B6 deficiency has been linked to premature births and miscarriages. It is therefore important, especially for women, to ensure adequate supply at all times. 

Which AgilNature products contain vitamin B6? 

*Nutrient Reference Value = Percentage of the reference value according to Appendix XIII of the Food Information Regulation (EC) No. 1169/2011.  

Literature  

1. Vitamin B6. DGE. https://www.dge.de/forschung/referenzwerte/vitamin-b6/?L=0 (accessed on November 22, 2023) 
2. Kirkland JB, Meyer-Ficca ML. Niacin. Adv Food Nutr Res. 2018;83:83-149. 
3. Ueland PM, McCann A, Midttun Ø, Ulvik A. Inflammation, vitamin B6 and related pathways. Mol Aspects Med. 2017 Feb;53:10-27. 
4. Homocysteine ​​(HCYS). Health portal. https://www.gesundheit.gv.at/labor/laborwerte/blutgerinnung/homocystein.html#:~:text=Homocystein%20ist%20eine%20sulphur-containing%20Aminos%C3%A4ure,and%20Herz%2DCirculation%2DDiseases . (accessed on November 28, 2023) 
5. Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006 (Health Claims) 
6. Brown MJ, Ameer MA, Daley SF, Beier K. Vitamin B6 Deficiency. 2023 Aug 8. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–.