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Platelet functionality has undergone a sea change in the last decade. Platelets are no longer simply regulators of hemostasis. They are now known to be pivotal in coordinating the inflammatory and immune responses. Clearly, this expanded role offers better opportunities. It allows for the effective management of various health conditions, specifically by targeting platelet activation and their interactions with other vascular cells. Additionally, dietary antiplatelets provide a nutritional approach that is both effective and safe for general use.
Platelets play a key role is maintaining blood’s homeostasis and preserving vascular system integrity. These small cell fragments, devoid of a nucleus, feature an array of receptors on their surface. When activated, they release signaling molecules. To illustrate, they are highly responsive to various stress signals encountered by blood vessels. Nevertheless, at times, this heightened sensitivity can occasionally result in certain platelets within the bloodstream becoming excessively reactive. This reaction is in response to their immediate environment, including the blood and blood vessel walls. This, as a consequence, can contribute to health-related issues.
The most extensively researched example centers on platelet influence in the development and progression of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Antiplatelet therapy has long served as a cornerstone in the treatment of established CVD. Additionally, platelets play a crucial role in immune responses and host defenses. Recent studies have proposed that the blood clotting and immune systems are intricately intertwined, rather than functioning as separate entities.
As we gain a better understanding of the critical role platelets play in inflammation and immune responses, it becomes evident that controlling platelet-driven inflammation is vital in various diseases, not limited to CVD. Recent studies have shown that medications preventing platelet aggregation can reduce mortality in infections and sepsis. However, these drugs are not intended for primary prevention. Instead, they typically target a specific aspect of platelet aggregation, bringing it to a complete halt. This level of platelet suppression is associated with a higher risk of bleeding, where the potential for bleeding outweighs the benefits of antiplatelet treatment.
Nutritional approaches to reducing platelet hyperactivity hold significant appeal. Several plant-derived antiplatelets, such as pycnogenol from pine bark, sulfur derivatives from garlic, and well-studied flavonoids from onion, grapes, olive oil, and berry anthocyanidins, are commercially available. While these are primarily promoted for their antioxidant properties and show some ability to reduce platelet activity, there is actually no coherent data about how effective they are as antiplatelets.
Fruitflow® is derived from ripe tomatoes using a process that removes pomace, seeds, and fats while operating at low processing temperatures (~40 ◦C). So, it’s a water-soluble extract without lycopene, and its composition is designed to closely resemble fresh clarified tomato juice as much as possible. The process undergoes further refinement to eliminate polysaccharides and soluble sugars, which constitute the majority of its solid content. These said solid components lack the ability to inhibit platelet aggregation. FruitFlow, is the yield of such intricate process. It offers a diverse array of nucleotides and nucleosides (including adenosine, cytidine, guanosine, AMP, GMP, and deoxy derivatives). Additionally, it includes a wide range of simple phenolic compounds (such as caffeic and ferulic acids, glycosides, and conjugates with quinic acid), as well as a variety of flavonoid derivatives, with a notable prevalence of quercetin derivatives.
Fruitflow® is a standardized representative of the three primary types of dietary antiplatelet compounds: nucleosides, phenolic derivatives, and flavonoid derivatives. It also includes the total amount of “bioactive extract.” The effects of Fruitflow® demonstrated in ten studies focused on platelet aggregation and hypertension and have been shown to affect many aspects of platelet function such as immobilization and signaling; thrombin generation, affects platelets approximately one third as strong as aspirin and does not dangerously elevate the bleeding time in the manner that aspirin does.
Fruitflow ® is water-soluble tomato extract dietary antiplatelets. It contains a range of tomato-derived secondary metabolites,
including nucleosides, phenolic conjugates, and polyphenols, all of which show different profiles of antiplatelet activity. The compounds present are all water-soluble and of low molecular weight; Nucleosides are absorbed from the upper gastric tract very quickly upon ingestion, whereas others flavonoid glycosides are absorbed either from the lower small intestine or after microbial interaction in the proximal colon. The different metabolic fates of the antiplatelet compounds result in antiplatelet effects, which are observable 1.5–3 h after ingestion and persist (from a single dose) for around 18-hour. When consumed daily, the effects are continuous.
Fruitflow ® helps maintain normal platelet aggregation, which contributes to healthy blood flow. It was previously summarized the body of work related to Fruitflow®’s effects on platelet aggregation, most of which was conducted in the context of cardiovascular health. This post focuses on the use of Fruitflow® as dietary antiplatelet for inflammation response and immune function.
Platelets, release substances that can cause inflammation. Some of these substances affect how other immune cells and the lining of blood vessels respond to inflammation. Additionally, platelets act as bridges between different immune cells and blood vessel linings. Indeed, they play a crucial role in coordinating the body’s response to injury or disease.
While this response is usually helpful, overly active platelets can also cause problems. This particularly, can lead to excessive inflammation and subsequently can damage tissues. It can also worsen conditions like atherosclerosis, diabetes, or inflammatory bowel disease. To manage this, physicians frequently prescribe antiplatelet medications.
Regular exercise is associated with overall well-being, correlated to longer life, better mental health, less metabolic issues, strong bones, and improved cardiovascular fitness. While exercise is generally beneficial, strenuous exercise is associated with an increased risk of vascular thrombotic events and sudden death. Intense exercise can lead to the release of adrenaline and serotonin and triggers the production of thrombin, which activates platelets. In addition, vigorous aerobic exercise can reduce the production of nitric oxide (NO), a substance crucial for preventing blood clotting. This is more prevalent to individuals unaccustomed to such strenuous activity, as the cells responsible for NO production receive diminished oxygen supply. Hyperaggregability develops, and platelets then coordinate a series of pro-inflammatory events.
Most dietary antiplatelets, however, do not directly affect thrombin generation. Fruitflow® on the other hand reduces TF binding to P-selectin, thus reducing platelet-generated thrombin release, it also directly reduces the platelet response to circulating thrombin.
Dietary Antiplatelets in ImmunityPlatelets play a vital role in responding to inflammation in the body. They are known to initiate and modify the immune response. In other words, platelets can recognize and absorb harmful microorganisms, and they influence the behavior of immune cells. Hence, making them more effective at clearing infections. In situations where tissue damage is caused by blood-borne pathogens, like viruses or bacteria, the complex interaction between platelets and other immune cells leads to a coordinated response called immunothrombosis. During this response, platelets and immune cells create a physical barrier within blood vessels to contain the pathogens.
On the other hand, when infections progress and cause significant damage and inflammation, it can lead to unwanted blood clot formation and an increased risk of cardiovascular issues. A relevant example is seen in severe cases of COVID-19, caused by the SARS-nCoV-2 virus. These severe infections can trigger a strong inflammatory response, leading to widespread blood clot formation in tiny blood vessels, a condition known as microvascular thrombosis.
Managing platelet hyperactivity may help prevent or delay the progression of mild cases of the illness to severe ones. Recent studies have shown that blocking the production of a protein called TF (and, by extension, the blood-clotting factor thrombin) in COVID-19 can be achieved by targeting platelets. This was done by treating the patient’s platelets with a specific antibody that neutralizes a protein called P-selectin.
Dietary antiplatelets such as Fruitflow® be considered for daily use, especially in those known to have a higher risk profile for complications during serious infection, that is, individuals who are overweight, have high blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, atherosclerosis, or over 50 years of age.
Fruitflow® can help reduce platelet hyperactivity which forms a bridge between the immune response to infection and development of thrombotic complications. However, intervention with a dietary antiplatelets will not likely overturn serious thrombotic complications such as those observed in sepsis or severe COVID-19, and we are not advocating for its use in such conditions. Rather, we suggest that Fruitflow® may help improve the resilience of our bodies’ reaction to initial or mild infection through its beneficial effects on blood platelets and thrombosis. The safety and suitability of Fruitflow® as dietary antiplatelets are an important aspect of this suggestion, as its safety profile and relatively mild action render it useable by generally healthy adults.
During perimenopause, the number of platelet estrogen receptors decreases, and after menopause, they disappear altogether. This transition, coupled with the reduced nitric oxide levels, renders women more susceptible to platelets becoming excessively sticky. This increased stickiness serves as both a cause and a consequence of their elevated cardiovascular risk.
To counter this heightened platelet activity during and after menopause, it may be beneficial to reduce platelet hyperactivity.
5 ways Fruitflow® supports heart health during menopause
Another significant consequence of low nitric oxide (NO) levels, which are associated with an increase in platelet hyperactivity in men, is erectile dysfunction (ED), a prevalent condition. The successful use of Sildenafil, commonly known as Viagra, in treating ED highlighted the central role of nitric oxide in both normal erections and the onset of ED. Platelet hyperactivity contributes to inhibiting erections by releasing substances that constrict blood vessels, including superoxide and other oxygen free radicals. Furthermore, low NO levels promote the adhesion of platelets and immune cells to blood vessel walls through proteins like P-selectin and GPIIb-IIIa. When platelets adhere to these walls, they release vasoconstrictors, making it challenging to achieve an erection.
Some researchers believe erectile dysfunction (ED) may be a manifestation of cardiovascular disease, as there are commonalities in the underlying issues. A recent study explored the use of the antiplatelet drug aspirin in men with vasculogenic ED and high mean platelet volume, which is a marker of platelet activation. This study revealed that taking a daily dose of 100 mg of aspirin significantly reduced ED symptoms. However, daily aspirin therapy comes with an increased risk of bleeding, raising the question of whether a dietary antiplatelet approach could yield similar results.
Fruitflow® blocks expression of P-selectin on the platelet surface and prevents GPIIb-IIIa from binding; it has similar effects to low dose aspirin. Thus, it is hypothesize that these characteristics, combined with their better safety profile, merit further investigation of Fruitflow® in ED.
Platelets have multifaceted functions which generate a complicated set of interactions with other vascular cells, leading to many roles outside haemostasias. As our understanding of the role of platelet activation in response to— and in complicating—inflammatory and infectious illnesses grow, it becomes more apparent that platelet-targeted treatments are necessary outside the field of CVD. Dietary antiplatelets such as Fruitflow® can help provide suitably gentle and safe yet efficacious treatments to improve public health in response to a wide range of health challenges.
FruitFlow in OptiFlow is a dietary antiplatelet that promotes smooth blood flow and enhances blood vessel dilation which is beneficial to cardiovascular health
From the journal of Niamh O’Kennedy the chief scientific officer of Provexis PLC, and Asim K. Duttaroy is a member of the Scientific Advisory Board of Provexis PLC. Ruedi Duss is employed by DSM Nutritional Products. Along with the long list of their references
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Traveling is a wonderful way to explore new cultures and taste exotic cuisines. Similarly, holiday season is a time of joy when we gather with family and friends to celebrate, indulge and savor the festivities. However, amidst all the explorations and excitements, it’s easy to forget about the impact these culinary delights and holiday traditions can have on our digestive health. Long flights, changes in time zones, and unfamiliar foods can upset your stomach if you’re not careful.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss some valuable tips and tricks to keeping your digestive system happy and comfortable. Help you make the most of your travels and holiday adventures to create lasting memories. So, let’s dive into the travel world, holidays and digestive health. Let’s discover how you can strike the perfect balance between merriment and mindful eating.
Adequate hydration is the foundation of good digestive health, whether you’re on the move or enjoying a relaxing holiday. It’s easy to forget to drink enough water when you’re caught up in the excitement of your travels. To prevent dehydration and related digestive discomfort, carry a reusable water bottle and remember to refill it regularly. This is especially important in warm climates or during long flights.
Before embarking on your journey, research the local cuisine and identify foods that might not agree with your digestive system. If you have specific dietary needs or food allergies, learn essential phrases in the local language to communicate your requirements. Prioritize well-cooked, hot meals from reputable establishments, and exercise caution when considering street food in unfamiliar places.
While traveling and on holiday, it’s tempting to overindulge in large, indulgent meals. However, overeating can lead to indigestion and discomfort. Practice mindful eating by savoring your food and paying attention to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. If you’re eager to sample a variety of dishes, consider sharing with your travel companions to avoid overconsumption.
Maintaining a regular eating schedule can help regulate your digestive system. Skipping meals or going for extended periods without eating can lead to overeating later on and may disrupt your digestion. Carry healthy snacks like nuts, fruits, or granola bars to keep your energy levels stable between meals.
Enhance your digestive well-being. Include digestive aids in your travel kit, such as probiotics, antacids, and digestive enzymes. These supplements play a crucial role in maintaining a harmonious balance of gut bacteria and can effectively alleviate any discomfort associated with digestion.
For a robust boost to your digestive health, bring along Bricker Labs Mega-Colostrum Digestive Health Supplement. With its impressive 1000mg of specially extracted bovine colostrum, this supplement is teeming with bioactive peptides and immunoglobulins, offering a remarkably potent solution for comprehensive digestive support. It’s the daily gut nourishment you truly deserve.
Always remember to consult your healthcare provider before introducing any new supplements into your routine. They can provide personalized recommendations tailored to your specific needs and ensure you make the best choices for your digestive health.
Both alcohol and caffeine can contribute to dehydration and digestive disruptions. Consume them in moderation, and be aware of their potential effects on your body. Opt for herbal teas or non-alcoholic beverages when available, and stay mindful of your body’s signals.
Fiber is crucial for promoting healthy digestion, and it can be challenging to get enough when traveling or on holiday, especially when indulging in rich foods. Look for opportunities to incorporate fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your meals. A salad or a side of steamed vegetables can be a refreshing addition to a meal heavy in meats or fried foods.
Joint discomfort and pain are common concerns that affect many people even pets, especially as they age.
It can be caused by a variety of factors that may include intensive exercise or inactivity, injury, inflammation and arthritis. If you’re experiencing joint discomfort, there are several steps you can take to relieve pain and promote overall joint health. In this blog, we’ll explore the causes of joint issues and provide some tips and solutions to help you manage and resolve it!
You are in the pantry, you stood still, stared blankly and struggled for what seemed eternity. Your mind finally spoke, “Why am I here?”. Emotions swept with overwhelming ‘frustration’, blamed your forgetfulness, your age and aging brain. An indication that it's time to get brain health supplement.
We all have our fair share of memory issues. Especially when things around us are painfully too much to handle. The need to multi-task, cope with active life, endure rush hours. Whether you are a working mom or a family man, your kids are in school, your community needs help, and when mishaps happen, the car broke, milk is out, or the pet needs to see the veterinarian.
What if these happen all the time? When will you have peace and calm?
Some say the simple solution is 'focus', prioritize and concentrate. Seem easy, but how?
The string on the finger will probably not work anymore since you do not even remember where you kept the thread or ball of yarn. Tons of tips and tricks will crop up as you Google your way for help. Eventually, you drown with so much information that you almost forgot to turn off the oven at the brink of scorching that deliciously marinated chicken for dinner.
‘Working Memory’: a part of the short-term memory that allows for the storage and manipulation of information while working on another task. It peaks in our early 20s but shows a decline by 5%-10% per decade (Park & Reuter-Lorenz, 2009). In other words, as our Brain Ages, our Working Memory decreases.
Help improve working memory and boost brain performance through scientifically delivered spearmint extract Neumentix. This all-natural extract is the only active ingredient of Bricker Labs Memory Matters®, it is bred to be high in polyphenols targeted to support cognitive and improve physical performance.
Memory Matters® feeds cognitive performance of young and aging adults focused on managing a busy home, work life and active life. This brain health supplement helps:
Don’t get yourself in an embarrassing spot because you forgot where your eyeglasses are, when they are just sitting on your head.
2 capsules daily of Memory Matters® is all that matters.
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A healthy heart is essential for healthy life. If it stops, we stop.
So, for healthy heart we should:
How do we do that?
Blood is made up of plasma, red cells, white cells, and platelets. These tiny fragments of cells (platelets) released from bone marrow move between smooth and spiky. In their smooth state, they circulate easily in through the blood stream sliding off the vessel walls and gliding past any rough debris. But, in an emergency, they secrete sticky proteins snagging like Velcro onto each other and their surroundings, at the same time sending out signals to activate other platelets to do the same. So, if there’s a wound for example, in order to block the escape of blood, the activated platelets hook together forming a kind of platelet glue which create a web-like structure initiating a blood clot. But if clots form in blood vessels blocking the blood flow and thereby cutting of the oxygen supply, this puts a great strain on the heart to clear the blockage.
Many factors can increase the likelihood of the platelets becoming overactive. This includes obesity, diabetes, immobilization, smoking, mental stress, exposure to air pollution, those at risk from a Deep Vein Thrombosis such as incurring athletes and long hold travelers, and even basic aging.
What are the solutions?
Aspirin is a well-known and very effective medication used for the secondary prevention of cardiovascular events, but approximately, a quarter of the population can be intolerant or resistant and harmful effects are common. Therefore, US FDA does not support the use of Aspirin as primary preventer of cardiovascular disease.
OptiFlow® containing FruitFlow has similar benefits to Aspirin and can play a role in primary prevention and have antiplatelet effects on 97% of the subjects tested. It is completely natural, healthy, and safe with no reported side effects, because it is made from fresh ripe tomatoes of which about 3% contains the precious Bioactive Tomato Compounds (BTC). OptiFlow concentrates these BTCs again and again, until one serving of OptiFlow, just 150mg contains the same amount as in around three bowls of tomato soup but without the calories. It is proven scientific fact recognized by the European Food Safety Authority which said “OptiFlow with FruitFlow helps maintain normal platelet aggregation, which contributes to healthy blood flow”. The benefits start to happen at 1 ½ hours and the first dose lasts for 12 to 18 hours before everything goes back to normal, but when taken every day it maintains a constant healthy blood flow.
Not only that, OptiFlow® contains another high purity high efficacy ingredient - resVida® - 99% of pure trans-resveratrol, a polyphenol present in various foods predominantly in grapes and red wine. Remember the so-called French paradox? The fact that French people – who consume a high-fat diet – maintain relatively low mortality rates from coronary heart disease compared to other western countries. Their moderate but regular consumption of red wine is a contributing factor in explaining the paradox. resVida® in OptiFlow® significantly improved vascular reactivity and improved insulin sensitivity and reduced blood pressure in clinical studies.
OptiFlow, with 2 breakthrough ingredients, scientifically proven the next generation in heart health. It is highly stable, works fast and effective; an ideal and relevant supplement for individuals who want to maintain optimal cardiovascular health without medication.
]]>Unfortunately, my worst fears came to fruition around the age of 31. I began having severe brain fog, anxiety, heart palpitations, and reoccurring muscle twitches. There were times I thought I could be in the beginning stages of Multiple Sclerosis...or worse.
It would have been easy to go to my Doctor and obtain a prescription for a diagnosis that fit my situation (PLEASE seek professional medical advice immediately if you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms). However, for me personally, I decided to take matters into my own hands and explore a more natural way to address the issues I was struggling with.
Luckily, my problem was an easy fix. I cut out the enormous amounts of caffeine I was consuming on a daily basis, changed my diet a bit, and added in a good B-12 supplement.
During my research, I discovered that a lot of the symptoms I was having could be attributed to a B-12 deficiency.
You could be at risk if you are any of the following:
• An older adult
• An individual with a gastrointestinal disorder
• Vegan/Vegetarian
• Pregnant or lactating
• Eating foods that are nutritionally void
Symptoms of a B-12 deficiency may include:
• Weakness, tiredness, or lightheadedness
• Heart palpitations and shortness of breath
• Pale skin
• A smooth tongue
• Constipation, diarrhea, loss of appetite, or gas
• Nerve problems like numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, and problems walking
• Vision Loss
• Mental problems like depression, memory loss, or behavioral changes
Bricker Labs offers two viable B-12 options to help assist you in regaining control of your health. One is in the form of Methylcobalamin and the other as Cyanocobalamin with Folic Acid. Each playing critical roles in improving mental function and acuity, energy metabolism, immune/heart/nerve function, healthy sleep, and healthy cholesterol levels!
Grab Yours Here:
B-12 Blast® Methylcobalamin – Bricker Labs
B-12 Blast® Methylcobalamin Lozenges 1000 mcg 100ct – Bricker Labs
B-12 Blast® with Folic Acid (as Cyanocobalamin) – Bricker Labs
Author: Jennifer Chagnon
]]>Memory Matters is clinically shown to support focus during the day without disrupting sleep at night. The antioxidant polyphenols in Memory Matters promote new brain cell growth and supports a function of the brain called working memory, thus improving the ability to learn, manage information and react.
Memory Matters provides both cognitive and physical performance benefits and can be formulated into a variety of applications
]]>What do all these symptoms have in common? Impairment in blood circulation. 40% Covid-19 fatality is related to cardiovascular complications. There is now a growing body of evidence to support the theory that the novel coronavirus can infect blood vessels, which could explain not only the high prevalence of blood clots, strokes, and heart attacks, but also provide an answer for the diverse set of head-to-toe symptoms that have emerged.”
Circulation of blood is one of the most important functions of the body and plays a major role in your overall health. Keeping the blood circulation in tip top condition warrants the transport of oxygen and necessary nutrients the body needs, and the main component of this function involves the body’s most significant organ: the heart. Many underestimates the importance of blood circulation, making lifestyle choices that significantly impede this function, including smoking, leaving blood clots untreated and failing to exercise regularly. Some illnesses may also create circulation problems, such as diabetes and heart disease.
Benefits of Good Blood Circulation:
If you maintain a healthy lifestyle and take preventative actions to protect yourself from venous diseases, you will gain the following benefits:
The Risks of Poor Blood Circulation:
Here are a few tips worth trying to Improve Circulation:
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Today, we are living -- and working -- longer than at any other time in human history. Yet the incidence of diseases that damage cognitive functioning and memory, such as Alzheimer’s, dementia and age-related cognitive decline, is on the rise. Given these facts, it’s no wonder brain health has become such a hot topic in recent years. For those who continue to work into their 60s and beyond, maintaining cognitive health is even more crucial; any lapse in cognitive function or memory can have dire effects on both quality of work and productivity.
The brain is the control center for the entire body. It governs movement, thought and an infinite number of bodily processes while enabling us to interpret and interact with the outer world. An optimally functioning brain is essential for healthy cognition and memory, and to effectively navigate through life.
Today, we are living longer than ever -- but what joy can be obtained from “living to a ripe old age” if your cognitive function suffers in the process? As the human lifespan continues to increase, maintaining cognitive health and memory will become even more of a focus in our society.
Oxidation and Inflammation: Your Brain’s Worst Enemies
As we age, our bodies and minds are inevitably affected by two inescapable processes: oxidation and inflammation. Unfortunately, our delicate brains are especially susceptible to these twin ravages of time. Oxidation is a natural process that occurs when oxygen is metabolized in the body. Though necessary for life, oxidation creates harmful by-products called free radicals. Free radicals damage healthy cells and tissues, and excessive amounts have been linked to accelerated aging, arthritis, glaucoma, heart disease and certain cancers. In the brain, free radicals attack nerve cells and have been implicated in degenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
When tissues and cells are under attack or become damaged, it triggers a protective response in the body called inflammation. Acute inflammation can be beneficial and is an important part of the healing process. However, long-term or chronic inflammation is detrimental to overall health and has been pinpointed as the root cause of a variety of diseases. In the brain, inflammation has been shown to contribute to conditions ranging from depression and anxiety to schizophrenia, autism, ADHA and dementia.
Modern Life Provides New Challenges for Brain Health
Although modern advancements allow us to enjoy longer lives, they are also part of the problem when it comes to preserving cognitive health and memory. In fact, we are more vulnerable today to the damaging effects of oxidation and inflammation than our ancestors were. Side effects of human “progress” like environmental toxins, air pollution, medication, diets high in refined sugar, preservatives, hormones and chemicals in our food and high levels of stress all increase our body’s toxic load and accelerate the rates of oxidation and inflammation in the body.
If you’re concerned about preserving cognitive health and memory, it’s never too early to begin. In recent years, numerous powerful natural ingredients have astonished scientists with their neuro-protective, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Supplements like astaxanthin, omega-3 fatty acids, beta-carotene, carotenoids like lutein and lycopene and plant extracts such as the spearmint extract Neumentix™ are but a few of these.
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