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Allergy Support

Description

The following ingredients provide a high potency combination of nutrients that help to optimize the body’s natural defenses and facilitate the maintenance of a healthy respiratory tract.

Signs and Symptoms for Nutrient Applications

- Allergies - Hayfever - Sinus infection - Nasal congestion - Asthma - Respiratory conditions

Clinical Applications/Research

Vitamin C

Extra addition of vitamin C seems to boost the immune system by increasing cellular immune functions and stimulating neutrophils (potent white blood cells). Patients receiving 1 gram of vitamin C daily had improved neutrophil activity, resulting in a dramatic reduction of infectious attacks (Anderson, R. Int J Vitam Nutr Res. Suppl. 23:23-34, 1982; Patrone, R, Dallegri, F, Bonvivi, E, et al. Acta Vitaminol Enzymol. 4:163-68, 1982). According to a report in Allergy and Imm. (Feb. 1993), Vitamin C has a “special influence” on enhancing the immune response and warding off infection. Several studies of groups taking vitamin C show that it reduces the longevity and severity of colds (Brit. J. Nutr. 67:3-16). One group, taking 600 mg. supplements, had upper respiratory tract infections reduced by 50% (Amer. J. Clin. Nutr. 57:170-74). Most importantly, vitamin C treated groups don’t feel as bad while they are sick. When this means less sick days and less interference with our daily lives, vitamin C can be a great help in keeping production levels up, as well as enhancing the quality of our everyday lives.

Bioflavonoids

Bioflavonoids were first discovered in the white rind of citrus fruits. Also known as “vitamin P” (for permeability factors), bioflavonoids have a beneficial effect on building capillary strength. Bioflavonoids are water-soluble plant pigments that give the bright color to fruits and vegetables. Bioflavonoids include such things as flavones, flavonones, flavonols, anthocyanidins and proanthocyanidins. Bioflavonoids have been shown to have antiinflammatory, anti-allergic, antiviral and anticarcinogenic properties. They are also powerful antioxidants. Bioflavonoids include rutin from buckwheat, hesperidin from citrus fruits and quercetin from garlic and onions. Hesperidin has been shown to have beneficial effects on capillary permeability and blood flow. Bioflavonoids are found in nature with vitamin C, and they boost the therapeutic effect of vitamin C, helping to build strong connective tissue, and create a protective barrier to infection.

Quercetin

Quercetin is a potent bioflavonoid - in fact, it has been named, "the most important flavonoid" by a leading peer-reviewed journal (Nutr. Cancer 1993, 20:21-9). It is a powerful antioxidant, and as a bioflavonoid, it also operates to "stabilize cell membranes, decrease the release of inflammatory substances, and decrease the contraction of smooth muscle" (Murray M. Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine, Prima Publishing, Rocklin, CA, 1991 p. 298). Michael Murray suggests that, "quercetin appears indicated in virtually all inflammatory and allergic conditions" (Murray, M. Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements, 1996, Prima Publ., Rocklin, Ca. p. 327).

Bromelain

The journal Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise (1992;24(l):20-25) reports a study on bromelain, one of the proteolytic enzymes that has therapeutic effects in the treatment of inflammation and soft tissue injuries. Following injury, bromelain significantly increased the maximum muscle force in the treated group, indicating that bromelain can be helpful for a quick recovery from injury. The Merck Index lists it as an excellent anti-inflammatory enzyme (Merck Index, 11th ed. 1989. Merck & Co. Inc., Rahway, NJ, p. 1382). Bromelain therapy has become quite popular for use in rheumatoid arthritis to decrease joint inflammation. The smooth muscle relaxant properties of bromelain contribute to the documentation for relieving menstrual cramps. The anti-inflammatory effect of bromelain is the possible reason why bromelain has been found effective in people with sinusitis problems.

Contraindications/Toxicology

Bromelain is contraindicated in pregnancy. High dose vitamin C is not recommended in iron overload disease and kidney stone formers.

Disclaimer: The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA. The nutritional suggestions and research provided are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease and should not be used as a substitute for sound medical advice. Please see your health care professional in all matters pertaining to your physical health.

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