Overview: 

Chromium belongs to the group of trace elements and must therefore be absorbed through food since the body cannot produce it itself. The human body contains approximately 20-30 µg of chromium per kilogram in storage tissues /organs ( 1 ). The main stores for chromium are in our body Liver, spleen, bones , kidneys and lungs ( 1 ) .  

Chromium – Control for sugar and fat 

Chromium plays a role in carbohydrate metabolism and fatty acid metabolism. The trace element helps maintain blood sugar levels by increasing insulin action in the body, thus enabling better blood sugar control and reduction (2). Maintaining blood sugar levels is particularly important for diabetics. Studies have found evidence that chromium supplementation could have positive effects on blood sugar levels in diabetics (3). Chromium also plays a role in regulating blood lipid levels. A sufficient amount of chromium ensures a reduction in “bad” LDL cholesterol and an increase in “good” HDL cholesterol (4). 

Your daily need for chromium 

The German Nutrition Society recommends an intake of 30-100 µg chromium per day for adults (5). 

Chromium is found in the following foods: meat, eggs, oatmeal and tomatoes, as well as in dairy products and whole grain products (5,6). 

How a chromium deficiency can manifest itself  

Not much is known about chromium deficiency in healthy people. It is much more likely that we are talking about lower chromium levels than recommended. Known symptoms of a deficiency have so far only been examined in malnourished or metabolically impaired patients.  

Since chromium plays a role in insulin activity, a chromium deficiency can increase insulin resistance and thus negatively affect blood sugar levels. The increased insulin resistance can manifest as weight gain, fatigue and weakness. Overall, it also increases the risk of diabetes. Studies have also found a connection between low chromium levels and increased blood fat levels.  

Risk groups for chromium deficiency  

The risk group for deficiency includes older people and people with dietary restrictions, such as vegans. 

Even people who eat a lot of processed foods with a high sugar content not only have low sources of chromium, but also promote chromium loss. 

People with impaired metabolism due to illnesses such as diabetes or who take certain medications are at increased risk of chromium deficiency. 

Athletes who engage in long-term, strenuous sports are also at risk. 

Which AgilNature® products contain chromium? 

*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. Chrome | Lexicon | Eucell . ( October 4, 2023) https://www.eucell.de/ernaehrung/ernaehrungslexikon/urenelemente/chrom 
2. Bhattacharya, PT, Misra , SR, & Hussain, M. (2016). Nutritional Aspects of Essential Trace Elements in Oral Health and Disease: An Extensive Review. Scientifica , 2016, 5464373. 
3. Balk EM, Tatsioni A, Lichtenstein AH, Lau J, Pittas AG. (2007) Effect of chromium supplementation on glucose metabolism and lipids : a systematic review of randomized controlled trials . Diabetes Care 30:2154–2163 
4. Trace element chromium – an important building block in sugar metabolism. ( October 4, 2023 ). https://www.centrosan.com/Wissen/Naehrstoff-Lexikon/Spurenelemente/Chrom.php  
5. Copper, manganese , chromium , molybdenum . ( October 4, 2023 ). DGE. https://www.dge.de/forschung/referenzwerte/kupfer-mangan-chrom-molybdaen/  
6. Food Composition and Nutrition Tables , 7th revised and completed edition , Ed. SW Souci, W Fachmann, H Kraut.Wissenschaftliche Verlagsgesellschaft mbH, Stuttgart, 2008. 
7. Afzal S, Ocasio Quinones GA. Chromium Deficiency . [Updated 2022 Dec 12]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from : https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK582150/ 
8. Office of Dietary Supplements - Chromium. ( December 11, 2023 ). https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Chromium-HealthProfessional/ 
9. The Nutritional Biochemistry of Chromium( III). 1st Edition - March 21, 2007. Editor: John Vincent. 

Folate is probably the most well-known vitamin in pregnancy. It is one of the water-soluble B vitamins and can occur in different physiologically active forms. Folates are found primarily in leafy greens, such as spinach and lettuce, and in grains (wheat bran and germ). But animal foods such as egg yolk, beef and pork liver are also sources of folate. The synthetic or The industrially produced representative of the vitamin is folic acid. It is used to fortify foods and in dietary supplements (1, 2).  

Folate - importance in pregnancy 

Pregnant women consume only a third of the recommended amount of folate in the 1st trimester. The body can then fall back on the body's own stores, but these are quickly exhausted due to the increased need during pregnancy and especially in young mothers who have lower reserves. Rapid succession or multiple pregnancies also represent a particular burden on the folate balance. Especially in the early stages, when many do not yet know that they are pregnant, a folic acid deficiency in the mother can have serious consequences for the unborn child. These include low birth weight, premature birth and miscarriage, birth defects and congenital malformations such as neural tube defects. It should therefore be ensured that there is sufficient intake, even before pregnancy. This can be done through a folate-rich diet and folic acid supplementation agreed with your doctor. But watch out, the folate-rich liver should be consumed by pregnant women, especially in the first trimester should be avoided as it provides excessive amounts of vitamin A, which can be harmful to the fetus (2, 4). 

Folate – the most important tasks in brief 

• Folate contributes to normal amino acid synthesis 
• Folate contributes to normal blood formation 
• Folate plays a role in the process of cell division 
• Folate helps reduce tiredness and fatigue 
• Folate contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system 
• Folate contributes to normal psychological function 
• Folate contributes to normal homocysteine metabolism  
• Folate contributes to maternal tissue growth during pregnancy (3) 

However, if you have a folate deficiency, the cell division and growth processes in particular are disrupted, which can lead to anemia (1). Consequently, one of the first symptoms is fatigue, followed by pallor, irritability, shortness of breath and dizziness. A severe deficiency can lead to depression, confusion and even dementia (4). 

Your daily folate requirement 

The German Society for Nutrition recommends consuming 300 mg folate equivalent* per day. Pregnant women should even consume 550 mg and breastfeeding women 450 mg folate equivalent per day. In addition, women who want or could become pregnant are recommended to take 400 μg folate equivalent in the form of a supplement with a folate-rich diet to prevent a neural tube defect. This additional intake of a folic acid or folate supplement should be started at least 4 weeks before the onset of pregnancy and continued throughout the 1st trimester of pregnancy (1).  

*The different physiologically active forms of folate differ in their bioavailability. The folate equivalent was therefore introduced for a more reliable calculation of folate intake. 1 folate equivalent corresponds to the effect of 1 mg of free folate (2). 

Which AgilNature® products contain folic acid?  

*NutrientReference Value=percentage of the reference value according to Annex XIII of the Food Information Regulation VO (EC) No. 1169/2011. 

Literature: 

1. DGE (2018): Selected questions and answers on folate. In: German Society for Nutrition e. V. (DGE). https://www.dge.de/wissenschaft/faqs/folat/#folat (accessed on February 18, 2022) 
2. Biesalski, Hans Konrad; Bischoff, Stephan C.; Pirlich, Matthias; Weimann, Arved (ed.) (2018): Nutritional Medicine. Based on the curriculum for nutritional medicine 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. 
3. European Commission (2022): Nutrition and Health Claims. In: European Commission. https://ec.europa.eu/food/safety/labelling_nutrition/claims/register/public/?event=search (accessed on 02/18/2022) 
4. Johnson, Larry E.: Folic Acid Deficiency. In: MSD Manual Patient Edition. Available online at https://www.msdmanuals.com/de-de/heim/feeding disorders/vitamins/folic acid deficiency. (accessed on 02/21/2022) 

Potassium 

Potassium is an essential bulk element* for humans. Almost all of the potassium in the body is found within the cells (98%), primarily in the muscle cells. Less potassium is found in the cells of the liver, bones and red blood cells (erythrocytes). In food, potassium is mainly found in apricots, bananas, carrots, kohlrabi, avocado and tomatoes, but also in concentrated forms such as tomato paste or dried fruit. Nuts, some flours (spelt, rye, whole buckwheat), and even dark chocolate are also high in potassium (1). Due to the high intake of fruit and vegetables, vegetarians and vegans in particular are usually sufficiently supplied (2). 

*Bulk elements are designated as such because their daily requirement is over 100mg. Accordingly, the recommended daily intake of trace elements is less than 100 mg. The distinction between bulk and trace elements is purely quantitative (3). 

Potassium – the most important tasks in brief 

• Potassium contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system 
• Potassium contributes to normal muscle function 
• Potassium helps maintain normal blood pressure (4) 

Not only can potassium maintain normal blood pressure, for people with high blood pressure, a potassium-rich diet can actually lower blood pressure, thereby reducing the risk of stroke. This effect was observed above all with a potassium intake of between 3500 mg and 4700 mg per day (1). 

Potassium imbalances 

A Potassium deficiency (hypokalemia) can be triggered by severe loss of fluids, e.g. through vomiting, use of laxatives or diuretics, as well as chronic diarrhea. Other causes can be long-term malnutrition and certain diseases. Potassium deficiency due to insufficient intake of potassium from the diet is rare (1). 

At a Potassium oversupply (hyperkalemia) excretion via the kidneys can be disturbed, but degrading metabolic processes and damage to body cells or the intake of certain medications can also be the cause of too much potassium. Hyperkalemia is also usually not to be feared due to an excessive intake of potassium from food. However, caution should be exercised when taking potassium supplements, especially those containing only potassium. It is therefore important, especially with potassium-containing mono-preparations, to only take them under medical supervision (1). 

Hyper- and hypokalemia are disturbances in the potassium balance and can have serious consequences. These include muscle weakness and paralysis, as well as cardiac arrhythmia. In the worst case, they can lead to cardiac arrest (1, 2, 5). 

Your daily need for potassium 

The German Society for Nutrition recommends that adults and pregnant women consume 4000 mg of potassium per day, and breastfeeding women even 4400 mg of potassium per day (1). 

Which AgilNature® products contain potassium?  

*NutrientReference Value=percentage of the reference value according to Annex XIII of the Food Information Regulation VO (EC) No. 1169/2011.

Literature: 

1. DGE (2016): Selected questions and answers on potassium. In: German Society for Nutrition e. V. (DGE). https://www.dge.de/index.php?id=631 (accessed on February 21, 2022) 
2. Biesalski, Hans Konrad; Bischoff, Stephan C.; Pirlich, Matthias; Weimann, Arved (ed.) (2018): Nutritional Medicine. Based on the curriculum for nutritional medicine 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. 
3. Rehner, Gertrude; Daniel, Hannelore (2010): Biochemistry of Nutrition. 3. edition Heidelberg: Spectrum Acad. Verl. (spectrum textbook). 
4. European Commission (2022): Nutrition and Health Claims. In: European Commission. https://ec.europa.eu/food/safety/labelling_nutrition/claims/register/public/?event=search (accessed on February 21, 2022)  
5. Lewis III, James L.: Overview of the function of potassium in the body. In: MSD Manual Patient Edition. Available online at https://www.msdmanuals.com/de/heim/hormon-und-metabolic-diseases/electrolyte-balance/%C3%BCerblick-%C3%BCber-die-funktion-of-kalium-im-k%C3%B6rper . (accessed on 02/22/2022) 

Origin and history of coffee

Coffee is one of the most popular drinks worldwide. Hardly anyone can resist the enticing scent and intense aroma of a freshly brewed cup of coffee. Coffee can look back on a long tradition, and many legends and myths surround its discovery. The fact is, however, that detailed drawings and descriptions of the coffee plant were made for the first time as early as 1592. The plant genus Coffea comes from tropical Africa. It was only with human help that the plant reached other continents. The term "coffee" is derived from the Arabic "kahwe" or "qahwa", which means something like vitality or strength. The two main types of coffee are Arabica and Robusta coffee. Compared to Arabica, Robusta coffee contains twice the amount of chlorogenic acid, one of the most important active components in coffee (1).
Coffee is best known for its stimulating properties. Current scientific studies now show further health-promoting effects of coffee. Green coffee in particular is of particular importance here.

What is green coffee?

The fruits of the coffee tree are the so-called coffee cherries. After harvesting, the red cherries are dried in the sun if possible. Once the flesh of the cherries has dried, they are broken open and the green beans are removed from the inside. These green beans are called green coffee. For the usual coffee drink, the green coffee beans are roasted. The beans are exposed to high temperatures, which gives the coffee its intense aroma, but can also destroy important components (such as chlorogenic acids) (2).

Green coffee extract: Svetol®

Svetol® is a unique, decaffeinated coffee extract made from unroasted green coffee beans. A special variant of Robusta coffee is used for its production. Svetol® has a special composition of ingredients. The content of active ingredients such as chlorogenic acids and polyphenols is particularly high. Thanks to the special manufacturing process of the unique green coffee extract Svetol®, increased bioavailability in the body is also made possible (3).

Stimulate fat burning with green coffee extract Svetol®

The chlorogenic acid contained in Svetol® can inhibit the absorption of glucose from food in the intestine and at the same time reduce the new synthesis of glycogen in the liver. This leads to a lower blood sugar level. In order to be able to provide the body with sufficient energy, it draws on the body's own fat reserves. Fat burning is therefore stimulated, which can lead to weight loss (4).
A randomized, placebo-controlled study with 50 overweight subjects between the ages of 19 and 75 years, has this weight-reducing effect of Svetol® proven. The subjects were randomly assigned to one of two groups. The first group received 400 mg of Svetol® daily, while the second group received a placebo. After 60 days of intake, the Svetol® group achieved a significantly higher weight loss than the placebo group (5).

Which AgilNature products contain green coffee?

 We recommend taking 4 capsules of FigureAgile active per day.

 Svetol® can be found in the ingredients as "green coffee extract". 

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

** No recommendation available.

Literature:

1. German Coffee Association e.V. (2022): Coffee knowledge. In. Deutscher Kaffeeverband e.V. https://www. Kaffeeverband.de (accessed on 01/16/2022)

2. Toledo Castanheira, Dalyse (2020): Coffee - Production and Research. In: IntechOpen.

3. Naturex (2022): Svetol® by Naturex proven effective for weight loss and toning. In: Naturex. https://www.naturex.com/Media2/Press-releases/Svetol-R-by-Naturex-proven-effective-for-weight-loss-and-toning (accessed 01/16/2022)

4. Naveed, Muhammad; Hejazi, Veghar; Abbas, Muhammad; Kamboh, Asghar Ali; Khan, Ghulam Jilany; Shumzaid, Muhammad et al. (2018): Chlorogenic acid (CGA): A pharmacological review and call for further research. In: Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie 97, S. 67–74. DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.10.064.

5. Dellalibera, O.; Lemaire, B.; Lafay, S. (2006): Svetol ®, a decaffeinated green coffee extract, induces weight loss and increases the lean mass to fat mass ratio in overweight volunteers. In: Phytotherapy 4(4), S. 194–197. DOI: 10.1007/s10298-006-0181-7.

Broccoli (Brassica oleracea was. italica) belongs to the cruciferous family (Brassicaceae), like all other types of cabbage. But (horse)radish, radishes, cress, rocket or mustard are also included (1). Originally, all types of cabbage come from the wild type Brassica oleracea was. oleracea whose origin is the Mediterranean and the west coasts of Europe. Only since the 20th In the 19th century, broccoli grew in importance. Today it can be grown in most countries around the world, including Germany. Broccoli is valued above all for its ingredients. It is rich in minerals such as potassium, calcium, phosphorus and iron, but also in vitamins (provitamin A, vitamin C, B vitamins and folic acid) (2). Probably the most important ingredients are the glucosinolates (mustard oil glycosides). you or their breakdown products, the isothiocyanates (mustard oils), are said to have antioxidant and even anti-cancer properties. The mustard oil found in broccoli is sulforaphane (1, 2, 3).

Glucosinolatess, Isothiocyanate und Sulforaphan

Glucosinolate, also called mustard oil glycosides, such as the phenolic compounds of Olive, to the phytochemicals and are found in all cruciferous vegetables (1, 3).

Isothiocyanate, also called mustard oils, are the active breakdown products of glucosinolates. They usually only occur when the vegetables are processed. As soon as a plant cell is damaged, e.g. by cutting or biting, the enzyme myrosinase is released, which splits the glucosinolate into a mustard oil. Myrosinase is not only contained in cruciferous vegetables themselves, but also in our intestinal flora. Among other things, mustard oils are responsible for the pungent, sometimes bitter taste and typical smell of cruciferous vegetables (1).

Sulforaphan is the mustard oil found in broccoli. It is formed with the help of myrosinase from the glucosinolate glucoraphanin. Sulforaphane is said to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor properties (1). This is said to be mainly due to the activation of phase II enzymes and antioxidant factors (4)

How Phase II Enzymes Contribute to Detox

With food, the body is also supplied with many substances that are not needed or can even be toxic. So that these mostly fat-soluble foreign substances do not accumulate in the body, there is a very specific process, the foreign substance metabolism (also known as biotransformation). Here, the substances are made sufficiently water-soluble so that they can then be excreted via the kidneys and bile. This process is divided into 3 phases: phase I - modification, phase II - conjugation and phase III - elimination. In the first step, the foreign substance is modified (phase I enzymes). This is how some drugs unfold their effect, but the substance can also become more reactive or even more toxic. Nevertheless, this step is necessary so that the foreign substance can be made water-soluble by the phase II enzymes in the next step. The substance can then be eliminated, i.e. excreted (3). By activating the phase II enzymes, sulforaphane can promote the faster elimination of foreign substances in the body, i.e. detoxification. Detox), from which the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cell-protecting effects can be derived (4, 5).

Supporting detoxification with BroccoRaphanin®

Many studies have already shown that sulforaphane supports the detoxification process in the body and thus has anti-tumour, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. That's why we use BroccoRaphanin®, a unique extract from broccoli seeds, for our DetoxAgil dietary supplement. With BroccoRaphanin® we can optimally support the body's own detoxification, as it contains a naturally high content of at least 10% glucoraphanin, the precursor of sulforaphane. Thanks to the patented, gentle manufacturing process, these valuable ingredients are also particularly well protected (6).

Which AgilNature products contain BroccoRaphanin®?

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

** No recommendation available.

 Literature:

1. Herr, Ingrid (2014): The Cruciferous Vegetables on the Crusade Against Cancer. In: Passion Surgery (June, 4 (06)).

2. Federal Office for Agriculture and Food (ed.) (2020): Cauliflower, Broccoli. Product information.

3. Biesalski, Hans Konrad; Bischoff, Stephan C.; Pirlich, Matthias; Weimann, Arved (ed.) (2018): Nutritional Medicine. Based on the curriculum for nutritional medicine 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.

4. Hensel, Andreas; Lechtenberg, Matthias (2020): Broccoli-based dietary supplements – what is the quality situation like? In: Journal of Phytotherapy 41 (03), pp. 113-122.

5. Juge, N.; Mithen, R. F.; Traka, M. (2007): Molecular basis for chemoprevention by sulforaphane: a comprehensive review. In: Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences 64 (9), S. 1105–1127. DOI: 10.1007 / s00018-007-6484-5.

6. IFF Health (2022): Innovative Broccoli Raffinate. In: IFF Health. https://iff-health.com/portfolio/brocco-raphanin/ (accessed 2022-02-04)

origin of the olive

The olive tree has been cultivated in the Mediterranean for about 6000 years. The origin of the tree is mainly assumed to be in Greece. From there it spread throughout the Mediterranean and later to the rest of the world. Olive trees are now commercially grown in about 30 countries. However, production is mainly in the Mediterranean area. Due to its origin, it is not far off that the olive tree is called "the tree of the Greeks". According to legend, it was even a gift from the gods to the ancient Greeks. Olive oil was in ancient times and is still one of the most valuable products. Nowadays, "extra virgin olive oil" in particular is highly valued for its positive effects in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and certain types of cancer. This is mainly due to its balanced fatty acid profile, but also to many other active ingredients, such as hydroxytyrosol (1).

Was ist Hydroxytyrosol?

Hydroxytyrosol is a phenolic compound that is one of the phytochemicals (2). Secondary plant substances are substances that occur in plants but are not necessarily needed for their metabolism, but often serve as protection for the plant. The secondary plant substances often have a health-promoting effect on humans. The oxidation of LDL particles ("bad cholesterol") in the blood vessels is one of the main risk factors for cardiovascular disease (3). In particular, hydroxytyrosol protects cells and LDL particles from oxidative damage due to its antioxidant activity (2, 4, 5).

Protection of vessels by Hytolive®

The protective effect of hydroxytyrosol has already been proven in many studies. It is not without reason that hydroxytyrosol has a health claim verified by the EFSA: Hydroxytyrosol helps protect blood lipids from oxidative stress (5). That's why we use for our dietary supplements VasoAgil the high quality and patented Hytolive®. Hytolive® is a 100% natural extract from the fruit of the olive with a hydroxytyrosol content of 10 or 25%, depending on the formulation (6). Containing 5 mg hydroxytyrosol per capsule VasoAgil optimal for the protection of the vessels.

Which AgilNature products contain Hytolive®?

 Hytolive® can be found in the ingredients as "olive extract".

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

** No recommendation available.

Literature:

1. Kiritsakis, Apostolos K.; Shahidi, Fereidoon (Hg.) (2017): Olives and olive oil as functional foods. Bioactivity, chemistry and processing. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley (Functional food science and technology series).

2. Bertelli, Matteo; Kiani, Aysha Karim; Paolacci, Stefano; Manara, Elena; Kurti, Danjela; Dhuli, Kristjana et al. (2020): Hydroxytyrosol: A natural compound with promising pharmacological activities. In: Journal of Biotechnology 309, S. 29–33. DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2019.12.016.

3. Biesalski, Hans Konrad; Bischoff, Stephan C.; Pirlich, Matthias; Weimann, Arved (ed.) (2018): Nutritional Medicine. Based on the curriculum for nutritional medicine of the German Medical Association. With the collaboration of Michael Adolph, Jann Arends, Ulrike Arens-Azevêdo and Christine von Arnim. , completely revised and expanded edition. Stuttgart: Georg Thieme Verlag.

4. Romans, Annalisa; Yesterday, Francesca; Urciuoli, Silvia; Walnut, Annalisa; Brown, Giulia; Nediani, Chiara; Bernini, Roberta (2019): Health Effects of Phenolic Compounds Found in Extra-Virgin Olive Oil, By-Products, and Leaf of Olea europaea L. In: Nutrients 11 (8), S. 1776. DOI: 10.3390 / nu11081776.

5. European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) (Hg.) (2011): Scientific Opinion on the substantiation of health claims related to polyphenols in olive and protection of LDL particles from oxidative damage (ID 1333, 1638, 1639, 1696, 2865), maintenance of normal blood HDL cholesterol concentrations (ID 1639), mainte (4).

6. PLT Health Solutions, (2022): Hytolive® Olive Fruit Polyphenol. In: PLT Health Solutions. https://www.plthealth.com/product-catalog/hytolive (accessed on 01/25/2022)

Origin and history of the melon

The Cantaloupe-Melone (Cucumis melo was. cantalupensis), is a variety of cantaloupe melon. While it may be hard to believe, the sweet cantaloupe is a member of the cucurbit family (Cucurbitaceae), which also includes cucumbers or pumpkins. The exact origin of the cantaloupe melons is unclear, but it is suspected that they originally came from Asia or Africa. The ancient Egyptians already appreciated their sweet and juicy taste. Today, cantaloupe melons are mainly grown in China and many other Asian countries. In Europe, the main producer of melons is Spain. Although the melon prefers a more tropical climate, it can even be grown in Germany (1, 2).

Current research shows that the cantaloupe not only tastes really delicious, but also has beneficial effects thanks to the special enzyme superoxide dismutase.

The enzyme superoxide dismutase

The human body needs oxygen to live. Important metabolic processes for generating energy are not possible without oxygen, but reactive oxygen species (engl. Reactive oxygen species, ROS) arise. ROS are very reactive free radicals that damage cells and functional molecules. As a rule, the body has protective mechanisms such as enzymes or antioxidants to render these ROS harmless again. This mechanism includes the enzyme superoxide dismutase, which is found in almost every cell in our body (3).

Effects of oxidative stress

If we are permanently exposed to psychological stress, e.g. due to a high workload, the body can no longer protect itself adequately against this cell damage. The free radicals then exceed a healthy concentration and one speaks of "oxidative stress" (4). Not only does this make us age faster, the free radicals also affect the nervous system. Several studies have already pointed to a connection between oxidative stress and aging processes and fatigue, but also neurodegenerative (e.g. Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease) and neuropsychiatric diseases such as anxiety disorders or depression (4, 5, 6). In order to counteract this, it makes sense to reduce oxidative stress.

Less stress thanks to Extramel melon extract^® 

Extramel® is a patented, freeze-dried melon juice concentrate extracted from a special cantaloupe melon and has a high content of SOD and other antioxidants. The Extramel® formulation also has a special coating so that it is protected from digestive enzymes and its activity is preserved. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study with 61 subjects, an intervention group that took 10 mg Extramel® every day for a period of almost 3 months was compared with a control group that only received a placebo every day. It could be shown that in the intervention group the perceived stress could be significantly reduced and thus the quality of life of the subjects increased. In addition, physical and mental fatigue was significantly reduced. The psychological stress and fatigue normally described as states associated with oxidative stress could be reduced with Extramel®. The scientists therefore assume that Extramel® can reduce oxidative stress at the cellular level (4).

Which AgilNature® products contain the Extramel®?

Extramel® can be found in the ingredients as "melon juice concentrate".

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

** No recommendation available.

Literature:

1. Blancke, R. (2016). Tropical fruits and other edible plants of the world: An illustrated guide. Cornell University Press.

2. Federal Office for Agriculture and Food (ed.) (2021): Melons. Product information.

3. Koolman, Jan; Röhm, Klaus-Heinrich (ed.) (2019): Pocket atlas of human biochemistry. 5th, completely revised edition: Georg Thieme Verlag.

4. Carillon, Julie; Notin, Claire; Schmitt, Karine; Simoneau, Guy; Lacan, Dominique (2014): Dietary Supplementation with a Superoxide Dismutase-Melon Concentrate Reduces Stress, Physical and Mental Fatigue in Healthy People: A Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. In: Nutrients 6 (6), S. 2348–2359. DOI: 10.3390/nu6062348.

5. Salim, Samina (2017): Oxidative Stress and the Central Nervous System. In: Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics 360 (1), S. 201–205. DOI: 10.1124 / jpet.116.237503.

6. Kudryavtseva, Anna V.; Krasnov, George S.; Dmitriev, Alexey A.; Alekseev, Boris Y.; Kardymon, Olga L.; Sadritdinova, Asia F. et al. (2016): Mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress in aging and cancer. In: Oncotarget 7 (29), S. 44879–44905. DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.9821.

Pepper has a millennia-old tradition as a spice, especially in India, a main growing area for pepper. Pepper has an appetizing and digestive effect due to the pungent substances it contains. These pungent substances promote the secretion of saliva and gastric juice, as well as intestinal enzymes and the excretion of bile (1).

High bioavailability of vitamins and minerals thanks to piperine

The pungency of black pepper (black pepper) is the alkaloid piperine. It is responsible for the sharp taste and the associated positive effects on the metabolism. In addition, piperine also has the potential to treat many diseases and ailments. Probably the most important property of piperine, however, is its function as a bioenhancer. Bioenhancers are substances that increase the availability of nutrients and drugs in the body (2, 3).
The bioavailability of nutrients is an important issue. There can be a big difference between the amount of plant extracts, vitamins and minerals that we put into the body and the proportion or fraction that the body absorbs or uses. can ultimately use. The bioavailability of nutrients, but also medicines, consists of the release of these substances from their matrix and their absorption into the body via the intestine. It can be influenced by the state of the matrix, i.e. whether the food is cooked or raw, by digestibility in general or by intestinal bacteria and other substances in the intestine (4, 5).

Black pepper extract: Bioperine®

Bioperine® is a black pepper extract that contains at least 95% piperine and increases the bioavailability of the vital substances in our products. The influence of Bioperine® on the bioavailability of vital substances has been examined in various studies. The studies were carried out with 5 mg Bioperine® per dosage. Significantly higher concentrations of the vital substances were measured in the blood of the test persons when the vital substance was taken together with Bioperine® (6). However, it should be noted that an increase Improvement in bioavailability only occurs when Bioperine® is in the right place at the right time, i.e. when it is taken together with the vital substance. The available time window is an important component in this case. Bioavailability cannot be improved if, for example, ground black pepper is used instead of the special extract Bioperine®. By the time the black pepper is broken down in the stomach, the so-called "window of opportunity" - i.e. the previously mentioned time window - is already over.
So that you can optimally absorb all vital substances, we add 5 mg Bioperine® to all our dietary supplements.

Which AgilNature products contain Bioperine®?

At AgilNature dietary supplements contain the high-quality black pepper extract Bioperine®. It can be found in the ingredients as "pepper extract".

Literature:

1. Teuscher: spice drugs; Scientific publishing company mbH Stuttgart, 2003; p.281 ff.
2. Meghwal, Murlidhar; Goswami, T. K. (2013): Piper nigrum and Piperine: An Update. In: Phytotherapy Research 27 (8), S. 1121–1130. DOI: 10.1002 / ptr.4972.
3. Srinivasan, K. (2007): Black Pepper and its Pungent Principle-Piperine: A Review of Diverse Physiological Effects. In: Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition 47 (8), S. 735–748.
4. Haller, Dirk; Grune, Tilman; Rimbach, Gerald (ed.) (2013): Biofunctionality of food ingredients. Berlin, Heidelberg: Springer Berlin Heidelberg (Springer textbook).
5. Biesalski, Hans Konrad; Bischoff, Stephan C.; Pirlich, Matthias; Weimann, Arved (ed.) (2018): Nutritional Medicine. Based on the curriculum for nutritional medicine 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. Sabinsa Corporation, (2022): Research Highlights. In: Bioperine^®. https://bioperine.com/researchhighlight/ (accessed on 01/16/2022)

Calcium – the mineral for bones

Calcium is built into bones and, along with other minerals, is responsible for their strength and resistance (1). Calcium is needed for the maintenance of normal bones. A long-term calcium deficiency causes the body to fall back on its calcium depots in the bones. The result: the bones lose stability and break easily. A sufficient supply of the mineral calcium therefore plays a central role in the prevention of osteoporosis.

Calcium is not only important for healthy, stable bones, it is also involved in many metabolic processes in the body. The mineral calcium is required for blood clotting, for muscle contraction and for the transmission of stimuli in the nervous system (2). In addition, calcium has a stabilizing effect on cell walls, which is helpful in preventing and treating an allergic reaction, particularly in the skin. Substances with an allergic effect, such as histamine, are less able to escape from the cells and thus trigger fewer allergic reactions.

Dairy and milk products are particularly rich in calcium. A glass (0.25 liters) of milk provides almost 300 milligrams of calcium (1). Various plant foods such as kale, soybeans, nuts and seeds are also suitable as calcium suppliers.

Your daily calcium requirement

Iron is one of the essential, i.e. vital nutrients. It is required for blood formation and oxygen transport. The human body contains around 2.5g to 4g of iron (1). Around 60% of it is in hemoglobin, the oxygen carrier of the red blood cells.

Iron – the source of energy

The red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs to the organs and tissues. If there is too little iron, this process no longer runs smoothly. The consequences are physical inefficiency, tiredness, loss of appetite, gastrointestinal complaints, paleness and shortness of breath during exertion. Iron deficiency is one of the most common mineral deficiency states. There are various causes of iron deficiency: the most important ones include reduced dietary intake and chronic blood loss. Bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract also leads to iron deficiency. The absorption of iron can also be inhibited by taking certain medicines. Vitamin C, on the other hand, can promote the absorption of iron (1).

Iron - the most important tasks in brief

• Iron contributes to normal cognitive function.
• Iron helps reduce tiredness and fatigue.
• Iron contributes to normal energy metabolism.
• Iron contributes to the normal formation of red blood cells and hemoglobin.
• Iron contributes to normal oxygen transport in the body.

Your daily iron requirement

The German Society for Nutrition recommends a daily intake of 10 mg iron. Women under the age of 51 should even take 15 mg daily. Pregnant and breastfeeding women have a significantly higher iron requirement.

Which AgilNature® products contain iron?

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

Literature:

1. ERNA (2011), The European Responsible Nutrition Alliance: Facts about vitamins, minerals and other food components with health effects, Seiten 36-39

 

 

Green tea is made from the same plant (Camellia sinensis) won like black tea. To make green tea, the leaves are simply dried. For black tea, the leaves are fermented, giving them the special black color. During fermentation, however, exactly the health-promoting ingredients of the tea - the so-called polyphenols - are broken down. If the tea is unfermented, i.e. green, the polyphenols are retained to a greater extent.

 

 

Which AgilNature® products contain green tea?

*Nutrient Reference Value = Percentage of the reference value according to Annex XIII of the Food Information Regulation (EG) No. 1169/2011.** No recommendation available.