NBA Basketball superstar from the NY Knick's Carmelo Anthony has teamed with internet retailer Market America/SHOP.COM to launch Isotonix® Champion Blend Plus

NBA Basketball superstar from the NY Knick's Carmelo Anthony has teamed with internet 
retailer Market America/SHOP.COM to launch Isotonix® Champion Blend Plus, the latest offering in the company’s advanced health & nutrition supplement line.  The launch party drew a huge crowd of celebrities and athletes – including Tommy Hilfiger, Irve Gotti, Scottie and Larsa Pippen, Caroline Manzo, Maxwell, and of course La La Anthony was on hand to support her man at the launch of Champion Blend Plus. There were even a host of Carmelo’s Kicks teammates here tonight – with Jason Kidd, Amar’e Stoudemire, Marcus Camby, Baron Davis, Kurt Thomas, J.R. Smith in the house

Isotonix Champion Blend Plus

This Isotonix formula supplement helps you perform at your best.  This formula is changing the game – and changing the way you take vitamins! Champion Blend Plus has exactly what the body needs to support its muscles with essential nutrients, keep the body’s defenses up with powerful antioxidants, and provide a boost of energy from great vitamins, Isotonix Champion Blend Plus is everything one needs to be a true champion. 

“I’m always looking for the best thing to keep my body working at its peak, whether it’s during my workouts or in the heat of the game,” Carmelo said. “I need my muscles strong and responsive. I need my body feeling healthy and fresh. So I started talking to JR and Loren, asking if they had something that could help.”

Market America/SHOP.COM President and Chief Executive Officer JR Ridinger and Senior Vice President Loren Ridinger helped lead the development of this cutting-edge supplement, one that can help not only world-class athletes, but anyone stay in shape and feel great.

Added Loren Ridinger: “Carmelo really pushed us to create this product, and we’re glad he did. Market America and the Isotonix family of products have added a true champion to their lineup – in more ways than one.”

The product, available through SHOP.COM, combines Branched Chain Amino Acids to help retain muscles; the powerful antioxidant Pycnogenol®, the perfect ingredient for those living an active healthy lifestyle as it helps combat aggressive free radicals before they cause harm to the body; and activated B-vitamins, proven to provide the body with a boost of energy. *

Tommy Hilfiger, Loren Ridinger with Carmelo Anthony

Isotonix Champion Blend Plus utilizes the scientifically-proven Isotonix Delivery System – which allows for vitamins and nutrients to be absorbed by the body faster and more efficiently than other delivery systems.

“Performance. Defense. Energy. That’s what this product is all about,” said JR Ridinger. “We are so proud of Carmelo’s involvement in bringing this product to everyone. Now everybody can take a shot at being a champion.”

Added Carmelo: “They didn’t have exactly what I was looking for, so they created it. And they took it to the next level. No more pills – now you can drink your vitamins.”

Primary Benefits of Isotonix® Champion Blend Plus *:

• Promotes healthy muscle growth and muscle retention
• Helps reduce muscle fatigue
• Supports bone health
• Provides antioxidant protection to minimize the effects of free radicals
• Contains activated forms of select B vitamins to ensure optimal utilization by the body
• Increases energy
• Promotes cardiovascular health
• Promotes optimal immune functions

What Makes Isotonix® Champion Blend Plus Unique?

Isotonix Champion Blend Plus is exactly what your body needs to preserve your muscles with essential nutrients, keep your body’s defenses up with powerful antioxidants, and provide you with a huge boost of energy from great vitamins. Performance, defense, energy – everything you need to be a true champion.

Performance is the key measure of success, which is why Isotonix Champion Blend Plus is formulated to help benefit the performance of active adults with Instantized Branch Chain Amino Acids. Being both instantized and isotonic, you’re getting a product with superior bioavailability, allowing for faster absorption.

To defend your body from the effects of free radicals, Isotonix Champion Blend Plus provides an array of antioxidant benefits, thanks to the inclusion of Pycnogenol® - the isotonic form of which is exclusive worldwide to Market America – to help combat free radicals before they cause oxidative stress to the body.

Finally, all champions need the energy not only to compete, but to train, by including the activated forms of B vitamins – which are more readily processed by the body and thereby increase their effectiveness.

And, thanks to the utilization of the most advanced nutrient delivery system available anywhere - Isotonix® - you can be sure your body is getting the best - rapid absorption, no binders or fillers and maximum results. It all adds up to an unmatched product for the person looking to raise their game to the next level - Isotonix Champion Blend Plus.

Key Ingredients Found in Isotonix® Champion Blend Plus

Pycnogenol® (25 mg) 
Pycnogenol is a natural plant extract from the bark of the maritime pine tree, which grows exclusively along the coast of southwest France in Les Landes de Gascogne. This unspoiled and natural forest environment is the unique source of pine bark. Pycnogenol is one of the most researched ingredients in the natural product marketplace. Published findings have demonstrated Pycnogenol’s wide array of support to the body. Pine bark extract is an all-natural combination of procyanidins, bioflavonoids and organic acids. The extract has three basic properties — it is a powerful antioxidant, selectively binds to collagen and elastin, and promotes the normal production of endothelial nitric oxide, which promotes the normal dilation of blood vessels. As one of the most powerful natural scavengers of free radicals, Pycnogenol combats free radicals before they cause oxidative stress to vital organs. Its super-antioxidant capabilities promote cardiovascular health*

Instantized Branch Chain Amino Acids (IBCAAs) (3 g)
Branched chain amino acids (BCAA) are considered essential, as they cannot be synthesized by the human body and, therefore, must be consumed through diet or supplementation. Unlike other amino acids, BCAA are used primarily by skeletal muscle, making up 30-35 percent of the muscle tissue itself. These amino acids promote healthy muscle growth and retention. As aging occurs, the body’s ability to build and retain muscle tissue or size is reduced, which can result in weakness and frailty. Research has shown that supplementation with BCAA promotes muscle retention in older adults. Additionally, it has been shown that supplementation of BCAA during exercise supports muscle protein synthesis and inhibits protein catabolism (breakdown) and muscle fatigue. By using instantized BCAAs within the isotonic system, there is a quicker dissolution and increased bioavailability.*

Activated B Vitamins (Folinic Acid, Methylcobalamin and Pyridoxal 5’ Phosphate)
B vitamins support numerous metabolic processes in the body. This formula contains the activated forms of select B vitamins to promote optimal use by the body. By using these advanced forms, the body has to work less for utilization and effectiveness is increased. Folinic acid, methylcobalamin (B12) and pyridoxal 5’ phosphate (B6) are known to promote cardiovascular health. Additional B vitamins such as B1, B5, niacin and biotin support many processes allowing this product to work via several mechanisms to increase energy, promote cardiovascular health, decrease stress and improve mood while helping to maintain normal serotonin levels.*

Vitamin C (60 mg)
Vitamin C is a multi-faceted nutrient primarily known for its antioxidant benefits and strong role in immune health. Vitamin C helps support cardiovascular health in a few different ways. Vitamin C protects against LDL peroxidation by scavenging free radicals.*

Vitamin D3 (400 IU)
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is found in some foods and endogenously produced when sunlight strikes the skin and activates vitamin D synthesis. Vitamin D promotes the efficient intestinal absorption of calcium, by supporting the synthesis of calcium-binding proteins to promote normal calcium absorption and retention. Vitamin D also promotes the normal formation of bone and normal bone growth, and bone remodeling by osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Vitamin D deficiency can be caused by factors such as lack of exposure to sunlight, reduced skin synthesis of vitamin D, lower dietary intake, impaired intestinal absorption, and reduced metabolism to active forms of vitamin D by the kidneys, all of which increase with aging. Deficiency has been linked to numerous health concerns and insufficient levels of this vitamin are associated with weak bones and muscle weakness. In addition to promoting strong bones, vitamin D also has other roles in health, including supporting the body’s immune function. Vitamin D has been shown to support normal immune-modulation, and it is thought that supplementation promotes immune health by promoting the body’s normal regulation of T-cell function. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Isotonix® Champion Blend Plus 

Should this product be taken on an empty stomach?
Yes. Maximum absorption occurs when taken on an empty stomach.

I am healthy and athletic. Why should I take Isotonix Champion Blend Plus?
Everyone is vulnerable to the aging process caused by continuous free radicals damage. Athletes tend to be exposed to elevated levels of oxidative stress. Free radicals develop as byproducts during metabolism when calories are processed with oxygen. Athletes inhale 10 to 20 times more oxygen during physical activity over rest periods. The increase in activity creates additional free radicals. In fact, these free radicals are known to limit performance, as free radicals appear to take their toll on muscle tissue. Not only does Isotonix Champion Blend Plus help defend your body against free radicals damage thanks to Pycnogenol, but the inclusion of Instantized Branch Chain Amino Acids can help reduce muscle fatigue, allowing for better workouts.*

What does “Activated” refer to in reference to B-vitamins?
Activated refers to the active forms of vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid. Using forms other than these activated forms requires that the vitamins be enzymatically activated prior to utilization by the body. Not only does this take time and energy within the body, there are circumstances in which this reaction is either slowed or inhibited.

Get Isotonix Champion Blend Plus here 

'Breakthrough' study supports Pycnogenol's vascular benefits

'Breakthrough' study supports Pycnogenol's vascular benefits
By Stephen DANIELLS, Nut 07-Jun-2012

Daily supplements of an extract from French Maritime Pine bark may boost vascular health in people with stable coronary artery disease, according to data from a gold standard randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study from Switzerland.

Eight weeks of supplementation with Pycnogenol were associated with significant improvements in the function of the cells lining blood vessels (endothelial cells), report researchers from the University Hospital Zurich and the University of Zurich.

Writing in the European Heart Journal, the Switzerland-based scientists report that 200 milligrams per day of the pine bark extract resulted in an increase in flow mediated dilation (FMD) from 5.3 to 7.0, while no such improvements were observed for placebo. FMD is a measure of a blood vessel's healthy ability to relax.

Dr Frank Enseleit, the lead researcher of the study, said: “The results of this study show for the first time that Pycnogenol significantly improves endothelial function and blood flow in patients with coronary heart disease.

“The contribution of Pycnogenol for vascular health can be clearly identified in spite of patients’ complex medication regimen of blood thinners, statins and blood pressure medications.”

Pycnogenol has been the subject of scores of clinical studies suggesting benefits covering everything from cardiovascular, joint, cognitive and eye health to the relief of hay fever, PMS, tinnitus, hemorrhoidal pain and menopause symptoms.

Commenting on the new study, Victor Ferrari, CEO of Horphag, told NutraIngredients-USA that numerous Pycnogenol-containing products targeting circulatory health and heart health are already available in almost all the company’s markets world-wide.

“Early research on Pycnogenol has been performed in the field of venous insufficiency and circulatory support. We are therefore extremely pleased to see these wonderful results in such a high end clinical trial,” he said.

The participants also received statins, anti-hypertensives and blood thinners throughout the study. 

“After Pycnogenol usage, we were able to identify a significant improvement of endothelial function in individuals who depend on medications as a result of their heart disease,” said Dr Enseleit.

“Pycnogenol appears to help restore the body’s own functions in flow-mediated arterial dilatation.”

To read more about this article and the full study click here 

Isotonix OPC-3 contains the only isotonic form of Pycnogenol® in the world.  Click here to Learn more about OPC-3

Pine bark extract may ease haemorrhoid problems

Pine bark extract may ease hemorrhoid problems

Pine bark extract may ease hemorrhoid problems
By Stephen Daniells, 12-Jan-2010

Related topics: Botanicals, Research, Antioxidants, carotenoids, Phytochemicals, plant extracts

Supplements of French maritime pine bark extract may reduce the intensity and duration of hemorrhoidal pain and bleeding, says a new study.

A daily supplement of the pine bark extract, Pycnogenol, for seven days reduced pain around the anus from an initial average of 3.2 points on a four-point pain scale to about 0.8 at the end of the study, according to findings published in Phytotherapy Research.

Considering that over 50 per cent of the population will suffer from hemorrhoids at some point in their lives, the potential of the French maritime pine bark extract to ease the condition would indicate a major market opportunity.

“This study clearly indicates that Pycnogenol is an effective, natural solution in controlling this common, disabling problem and may contribute to relieve hemorrhoid attacks and offer pain relief,” said lead researcher Professor Peter Rohdewald from the University of Munster in Germany.

"Individuals never affected by hemorrhoids cannot imagine what people go through. Hemorrhoids can affect every aspect of your daily routine; it represents a tragedy most people don't realize. Our study suggests that Pycnogenol may help with all major symptoms,” he added.

Prof Rohdewald said that further studies are in progress with the focus on preventing new attacks and the general management of hemorrhoids.

Study details

In collaboration with Italian scientists from G D’Annunzio University, the researchers recruited 84 people suffering from external hemorrhoids to participate in their randomized, controlled, comparative study.

Subjects were divided into three groups: Group 1 received a daily oral dose of 300 mg of the pine bark extract for four days, followed by 150 mg a day another three days; Group 2 received the same oral doses as Group 1, plus a topical cream containing 0.5 per cent Pycnogenol; and Group 3 received a placebo.

Improvements in both groups 1 and 2 were observed at the end of the study. No hemorrhoid bleedings was observed in the two Pycnogenol groups after seven days, said the researchers. Bleeding was still observed in the placebo group, they added.

In addition to the decreases in peri-anal pain in group 1, group 2 participants reported a decrease from an initial score of 3.3 out of four to 0.3 at the end of the study. The placebo group reported a decrease from 3.4 to 1.2.

Finally, a decrease in the number of lost working days was recorded by the subjects, while there was also a reduction in the recurrence of complications and overall costs in both groups receiving the pine bark extract.

What’s happening?

Commenting on the possible mechanism, the researchers noted that the flavonoid profile of the pine bark extract may be behind the effects. “Unlike other flavonoid species, Pycnogenol significantly improves endothelial function which could contribute to the decreased ischemia (inadequate blood supply) and intravascular thrombus (clotting) found in our study,” they stated.

The study was funded by Horphag Research, manufacturers of Pycnogenol. The company has been very active in sponsoring and supporting studies into the potential health benefits of the pine bark extract. The first research was conducted on the ingredient 35 years ago.

Source: Phytotherapy Research
Published online ahead of print, Early View article, doi:
“Pycnogenol treatment of acute hemorrhoidal episodes”
Authors: G. Belcaro, M.R. Cesarone, B. Errichi, A. Di Renzo, M.G. Grossi, A. Ricci, M. Dugall, U. Cornelli, M. Cacchio, P. Rohdewald

Isotonix Opc-3 - Single Bottle (90 Servings)

Pycnogenol pine bark extract shown to protect diabetics from swelling, circulation and vision problems

NaturalNews) A research study conducted by G D'Annunzio University in Italy evaluated the benefits of a popular form of pine bark extract in helping diabetics. Published in the Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, findings revealed that people with diabetes can avoid developing retinopathy and maintain proper micro-circulation by supplementing with pine bark.

A total of 46 diabetic patients were involved in the randomized, controlled study. Twenty-four of them were treated with pine bark extract once a day for three months while the remaining 22 were given a placebo. All the patients had diabetes for at least four years and all were beginning to develop retinopathy. Seventy-five percent of patients in the pine bark group experienced improvement in their vision while none in the placebo group did.

Dr. Robert Steigerwalt, one of the lead researchers of the study, confirmed that not only does pine bark extract halt the progression of diabetic retinopathy, it can cause it to regress by sealing the leaky blood vessels in the eye that lead to the disease. Such results were witnessed in as little as two months. He also noted that diabetics in the early stages of the disease can prevent such complications from ever occurring by supplementing with pine bark extract.

Pycnogenol, the branded formula of the antioxidant plant extract derived from the French maritime pine tree, has proven itself time and time again to be a powerful protective nutrient, particularly for diabetics. When administered during the early stages of diabetes, many studies have shown that pine bark is effective at preventing and treating the diabetic retinal diseases.



Comments by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger
Pycnogenol is one of the "miracle nutrients" we've been blessed with on this planet. Time and time again, it has been proven to offer truly remarkable health benefits to those people who taken the supplement.

Now, this research shows how beneficial pycnogenol can be for diabetics. It's an important piece of research showing how this tree-derived nutrient helps increase circulation that can ultimately help save lives.

It's not just an antioxidant, you see: It's also a potent circulation booster. Combined with other circulation-boosting herbs like ginger and ginkgo, it could be an extremely effective natural remedy for preventing diabetic neuropathy (degradation of the nerves) and retinopathy (degradation of the retina).


Pycnogenol is just One of the three main ingredients in Market America's OPC-3
www.customizeme.com

Isotonix Opc-3 - Single Bottle (90 Servings)

Isotonix Opc-3 - Single Bottle (90 Servings)

Primary Benefits:

Isotonix OPC-3

° Combats free radicals
° Demonstrates anti-inflammatory activity
° Helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels
° Helps maintain healthy circulation by strengthening capillaries, arteries and veins
° Helps maintain joint flexibility
° Helps promote/support cardiovascular health
° Helps reduce mild menstrual cramping and abdominal pain
° Helps support visual health/visual acuity
° Potent free radical scavenger
° Promotes/Supports healthy blood vessel dilation
° Promotes/Supports healthy nitric oxide levels
° Supports a healthy complexion
° Supports healthy blood glucose levels
° Supports healthy platelet activity
° Supports healthy sperm quality


Key Ingredients:

Grape Seed Extract : 25 mg

Grape seed extract is typically extracted from the seeds of red grapes (instead of white), which have a high content of compounds known as oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs). Grape seed extract is extremely rich in polyphenols, compounds with high antioxidant activity. Grape seed extract has been found to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.



Red Wine Extract: 25 mg

Red wine extract is a potent antioxidant. This extract is found in grape vines, roots, seeds and stalks, with the highest concentration in the skins. The antioxidant properties of red wine extract contribute to maintaining healthy circulation by strengthening capillaries, arteries and veins, and promoting overall cardiovascular health.



In the late 1990s, scientists took note of a phenomenon among the French. There were very low rates of cardiovascular problems in the provinces where residents consistently ate high fat foods and drank red wine. Scientists concluded that the protective properties of red wine have helped the French maintain cardiovascular health for years and subsequent scientific studies have further shown that the OPCs found in red wine are particularly beneficial for protecting the heart and blood vessels.



Pine Bark Extract (Pycnogenol®): 25 mg

Pycnogenol is a natural plant extract from the bark of the maritime pine tree, which grows exclusively along the coast of southwest France in Les Landes de Gascogne. This unspoiled and natural forest environment is the unique source of pine bark. Pycnogenol is one of the most researched ingredients in the natural product marketplace. Published findings have demonstrated Pycnogenol’s wide array of beneficial effects on the body. Pine bark extract is an all natural combination of procyanidins, bioflavonoids and organic acids.



The extract has four basic properties — it is a powerful antioxidant, acts as a natural anti-inflammatory, selectively binds to collagen and elastin, and aids in the production of endothelial nitric oxide, which helps to dilate blood vessels.



As one of the most potent natural scavenger of free radicals, Pycnogenol combats many aggressive free radicals before they cause oxidative stress to vital organs. Its super-antioxidant capabilities help support healthy blood platelet activity, support healthy blood glucose levels, reduce mild menstrual cramping and abdominal pain, maintain joint flexibility, promote cardiovascular health, promote healthy sperm quality, maintain healthy cholesterol levels and support a healthy complexion.



Bilberry Extract : 25 mg

Bilberry extract is derived from the leaves and berry-like fruit of a common European shrub closely related to the blueberry. Extracts of the ripe berry are known to contain flavonoid pigments known as anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants. Scientific studies confirm that bilberry extract supports healthy vision and venous circulation. Bilberry extract helps maintain healthy circulation by strengthening capillaries, arteries and veins.



Citrus Extract (Bioflavonoids): 25 mg

Bioflavonoids are antioxidants found in certain plants that act as light filters, which protect delicate DNA chains and other important macromolecules by absorbing ultraviolet radiation. They have been found to promote cardiovascular health, help maintain healthy circulation by strengthening capillaries, arteries and veins, and demonstrate anti-inflammatory activity.


Grape Seed Extract for Blood Pressure?

Study: Grape Seed Extract May Help Tame Prehypertension By Miranda Hitti
WebMD Medical News


Reviewed By Louise Chang, MD
on Monday, March 27, 2006

SOURCES: American Chemical Society National Meeting & Exposition,Atlanta, March 26-30, 2006. Tissa Kappagoda, MD, PhD, professor of internal medicine (cardiovascular medicine), University of California, Davis. News release, University of California, Davis. News release, American Chemical Society.

Grape and Salicin-Rich Extracts for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention

HerbalGram. 2004;63:25 © American Botanical Council



Supplement Speeds Wound Healing

Antioxidant Cocktail Contains 4 Skin-Friendly Substances

By Sid Kirchheimer
WebMD Medical News


Reviewed By Brunilda Nazario, MD
on Thursday, July 08, 2004



The effect of polyphenolic extract from pine bark, Pycnogenol on the level of glutathione in children suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Redox Rep. 2006;11(4):163-72.

Nonalcoholic Red Wine Extract and Quercetin Inhibit LDL Oxidation without Affecting Plasma Antioxidant Vitamin and Carotenoid Concentrations

(Clinical Chemistry. 2000;46:1162-1170.)
© 2000 American Association for Clinical Chemistry, Inc.

Pycnogenol reduces osteoarthritis pain, study


Scientific Studies:



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o Fine, AM, Oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes: history, structure, and phytopharmaceutical applications. Altern Med Rev 5:144-51, 2000.

o Fitzpatrick, D., et al. Endothelium-dependent vascular effects of Pycnogenol. Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology 32: 509-515, 1998.

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o Gulati, O. Pycnogenol® in venous disorders: a review. European Bulletin of Drug Research 7: 1-13, 1999.

o Hosseini, S., et al. Pycnogenol® in the management of asthma. Journal of Medicinal Food 4: 201-209, 2001. HHHh

o Kohama, T., et al. The treatment of gynecological disorders with Pycnogenol®. European Bulletin of Drug Research 7: 30-32, 1999.

o Kohama, T., et al. Analgesic efficacy of French maritime pine bark extract in dysmenorrhea. Journal of Reproductive Medicine 49: 828-32, 2004.

o Liu, X., et al. Antidiabetic effect of Pycnogenol French maritime pine bark extract in patients with diabetes type II. Life Sci 75:2505-13, 2004.

o Liu, X., et al. French maritime pine bark extract pycnogenol dose-dependently lowers glucose in type 2 diabetic patients. Diabetes Care 27: 839, 2004.

o Manna, S., et al. Resveratrol suppresses TNF-Induced activation of nuclear transcription factors NF-kB, activator protein-1, and apoptosis: potential role of reactive oxygen intermediates and lipid peroxidation. The Journal of Immunology 164: 6509-19, 2000.

o Maritim, A., et al. Effects of pycnogenol treatment on oxidative stress in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 17:193-9, 2003.

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o Packer, L., et al. Antioxidant activity and biologic properties of a procyanidin-rich extract from pine (Pinus maritima) bark, pycnogenol. Free Radic Biol Med 27:704-24, 1999. Review.

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o Rohdewald, P. Pycnogenol®. In "Flavonoids in Health and Disease". Ed. Catherine Rice-Evans and Lester Packer. New York: Marcel Dekker, Inc., 1998. 405-19.

o Roseff, S., et al. Improvement in sperm quality and function with French maritime pine tree bark extract. Journal Reproductive Medicine 47: 821-4, 2002.

o Roseff, S., et al. Improvement of sperm quality by Pycnogenol®. European Bulletin of Drug Research 7: 33-6, 1999.

o Saito, M., et al. Antiulcer activity of grape seed extract and procyanidins. J Agric Food Chem 46: 1460-4, 1998.

o Schönlau, F., et al. Pycnogenol® for diabetic retinopathy. International Ophthalmology 24: 161-171, 2002.

o Schönlau, F., et al. The cosmeceutical Pycnogenol®. J Appl Cosmetology 20: 241-6, 2002.

o Segger, D. and Schönlau, F. Supplementation with Evelle® improves skin smoothness and elasticity in a double blind, placebo-controlled study with 62 women. Journal of Dermatological Treatment 15:222-26, 2004.

o Shi, J., et al. Polyphenolics in grape seeds-biochemistry and functionality. J Med Food 6:291-9, 2003. Review.

o Sharma, S., et al. Pycnogenol® inhibits the release of histamine from mast cells. Phytotherapy Research 17: 66-69, 2003.

o Spadea, L., et al. Treatment of vascular retinopathies with Pycnogenol®. Phytotherapy Research 15: 219-23, 2001.

o Stein, J., et al. Purple grape juice improves endothelial function and reduces the susceptibility of LDL cholesterol to oxidation in patients with coronary artery disease. Circulation 100:1050-5, 1999.

o Takada, Y., et al. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents differ in their ability to suppress NF-kappaB activation, inhibition of expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and cyclin D1, and abrogation of tumor cell proliferation. Oncogene 23: 9247-58, 2004.

o Ueda, T., et al. Preventative effect of natural and synthetic antioxidants on lipid peroxidation in the mammalian eye. Ophthalmic Res 28: 184-92, 1996.

o Wallerath, T., et al. Resveratrol, a polyphenolic phytoalexin present in red wine, enhances expression and activity of endothelial nitric oxide synthase. Circulation 106:1652-8, 2002.

o Watson, R. Pycnogenol® and cardiovascular health. Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine 1: 27-32, 2003.

o Wei, Z., et al. Pycnogenol enhances endothelial cell antioxidant defense. Redox Report 3: 219-24, 1997.

o Yamakoshi, J., et al. Proanthocyanidin-rich extract from grape seeds attenuates the development of aortic atherosclerosis in cholesterol-fed rabbits. Atherosclerosis 142:139-149, 1999.

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o Bagchi, D, et al. Oxygen free radical scavenging abilities of vitamins C and E, and a grape seed proanthocyanidin extract in vitro. Res Commun Mol Pathol Pharmacol 95:179-89, 1997.

o Bagchi, D, et al. Free radicals and grape seed proanthocyanidin extract: importance in human health and disease prevention. Toxicology 148: 187-97, 2000.

o Bagchi, D, et al. Cellular protection with proanthocyanidins derived from grape seed. Ann NY Acad Sci 957:260-70, 2002.

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o Halpern, MJ, et al. Red wine polyphenols and inhibition of platelet aggregation: possible mechanisms, and potential use in health promotion and disease prevention. J Int Med Res 26:171-80, 1998.

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o Kay CD, Holub BJ. The effect of wild blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium) on post-prandial serum antioxidant status in human subjects. Br J Nutr 88: 389-98, 2002.

o Kehrer JP. Free radicals as mediators of tissue injury and disease. Crit Rev Toxicol 23:21-48, 1993.

o Koch R. Comparative study of Venostatin and Pycnogenol in chronic venous insufficiency. Phytother Res 16:S1-5, 2002.

o Koparker AD, Augsburger LL, Shangraw RF. Intrinsic dissolution rates of tablet fillers and binders and their influence on the dissolution of drugs from tablet formulations. Pharm Res 7:80-85, 1990.

o Mazza G, Kay CD, Cottrell T, Holub BJ. Absorption of anthocyanins from blueberries and serum antioxidant status in human subjects. J Agric Food Chem 50:7731-37, 2002.

o Nesaretnam K, et al. Effect of tocotrienols on the growth of a human breast cancer cell line in culture. Lipids 30:1139-43, 1995.

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What Makes This Product Unique?

A free radical is an atomic structure with an unpaired electron in its outermost shell. These unpaired electrons tend to be highly reactive, resulting in chemical reactions such as oxidation. Because they have one or more unpaired electrons, free radicals are highly unstable. They scavenge the body to grab or donate electrons, causing damage to cells, proteins and DNA. Free radicals are naturally occurring; however, air pollution, stress, smoking, heavy exercising and aging all contribute to the creation of harmful free radicals. Free radicals can cause oxidative damage to the body, potentially leading to serious health problems. Normally the body is able to protect itself from the damaging effects of free radicals, but if antioxidants are unavailable, or if free radical production becomes excessive, damage can occur.



Antioxidants are natural cell protectors, neutralizing free radicals by pairing an electron to the outermost shell of radical oxygen molecules, rendering them harmless. Antioxidants are nutrients such as vitamins and minerals, and enzymes that are capable of counteracting the damaging, but normal, effects of the physiological process of oxidation in bodily tissues. Antioxidants work in two ways, chain breaking and prevention. A chain-breaking antioxidant such as vitamins A, C and E, stabilize free radicals or cause them to decay into harmless atomic structures. A preventative antioxidant prevents the oxidation process by scavenging free radicals.



Isotonix OPC-3® is an isotonic-capable food supplement that is made from a combination of bilberry, grape seed, red wine, pine bark extracts and citrus extract bioflavonoids, all found to be potent antioxidants. Oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) are bioflavonoids (complex organic plant compounds) found in fruits, vegetables and certain tree barks that provide exceptional nutritional benefits to the human body. Studies have shown OPCs to be up to 20 times more powerful than vitamin C and 50 times more powerful than vitamin E in neutralizing free radicals. Isotonix OPC-3 contains the only isotonic form of Pycnogenol® in the world. Pycnogenol is a natural plant extract from the bark of the French maritime pine tree, and the most clinically researched and potent bioflavonoid.



Isotonic, which means “same pressure,” bears the same chemical resemblance of the body’s blood, plasma and tears. All fluids in the body have a certain concentration, referred to as osmotic pressure. The body’s common osmotic pressure, which is isotonic, allows a consistent maintenance of body tissues. In order for a substance to be absorbed and used in the body’s metabolism, it must be transported in an isotonic state.



Isotonix® dietary supplements are delivered in an isotonic solution. This means that the body has less work to do to in obtaining maximum absorption. The isotonic state of the suspension allows nutrients to pass directly into the small intestine and be rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream. With Isotonix products, little nutritive value is lost, making the absorption of nutrients highly efficient while delivering maximum results.



Frequently Asked Questions:



What is Isotonix OPC-3?

Isotonix OPC-3 is a dietary supplement that bears some of the most powerful bioflavonoids currently known to research scientists. These bioflavonoids are scientifically termed oligomeric proanthocyanidins, commonly abbreviated OPCs. The purest and best-researched OPCs chosen for OPC-3 are prepared from grape seed, red wine, bilberries, Pycnogenol from pine bark and citrus fruit. This combination of potent OPCs is unique to OPC-3, as is the Isotonix delivery system, which enables rapid and highly efficient absorption of the OPCs. Isotonix OPC-3 has been shown to provide a variety of health benefits including but not limited to combating free radicals, demonstrating anti-inflammatory activity, helping maintain healthy cholesterol levels, helping maintain healthy circulation by strengthening capillaries, arteries and veins, helping maintain joint flexibility, helping promote/support cardiovascular health, helping reduce mild menstrual cramping and abdominal pain, helping support visual health/visual acuity, scavenging free radicals, promoting/supporting healthy blood vessel dilation, promoting/supporting healthy nitric oxide levels, supporting a healthy complexion, supporting healthy blood glucose levels, supporting healthy platelet activity and supporting healthy sperm quality.



What is a bioflavonoid?

Bioflavonoids are complex organic plant compounds. Plants and fruits differ in colors based on the specific bioflavonoids they contain. An increasing number of clinical studies have shown how bioflavonoids support health. Bioflavonoids found in OPCs play a key role in cardiovascular health and maintaining vascular integrity. Bioflavonoids have been shown to demonstrate support for healthy circulation and cell vitality. Normal collagen renewal is promoted, which supports firmness of the skin, joint cartilage and connective tissue.



What sets Isotonix OPC-3 apart from other bioflavonoid products?

Isotonix OPC-3 offers scientifically supported OPCs, found to be the most potent antioxidants for human health. In addition to being powerful antioxidants, these individual OPCs have been shown to provide a myriad of specific health benefits. This science-driven selection of OPCs is unique to OPC-3, as is the Isotonix delivery system, which enables rapid and highly efficient absorption of the OPCs. The potent nutrients, in combination with the highly effective delivery system, makes OPC-3 the most powerful free radical scavenging product available.



Is Isotonix OPC-3 safe?

Yes. OPCs are among the most valuable constituents of a healthy human diet. OPCs have been researched and used for over 30 years throughout Europe. Extensive safety studies were conducted which revealed no evidence for human toxicity or allergic reactions. OPC-3 contains pure OPCs in combination with carefully balanced quantities of potassium and fructose/glucose, which set up the isotonic delivery system. OPC-3 is free of harmful chemicals, preservatives and alcohol. OPC-3 should be taken as directed.



How long does it take to benefit from Isotonix OPC-3?

OPC-3 not only provides the most potent OPCs available, the unique Isotonix delivery system ensures that the small intestine rapidly absorbs the OPCs, which are available in the blood stream within minutes. This is because the OPCs are delivered in liquid form. The liquid is isotonic, which means it duplicates the environment in our cells and blood stream regarding pH, electrolytes, etc. This enables the OPCs to enter the body easily and with a high level of bioavailability. Because of the rapid absorbability, the body should benefit from Isotonix OPC-3 almost immediately.



What is the advantage of taking Isotonix OPC-3 regularly?

Many effects of OPC-3 start to work after a single serving. Studies with human volunteers have found that the health benefits of OPCs may take a while to occur. This may be the case for health concerns resulting from everyday wear and tear, where time simply has taken its toll. Taking Isotonix OPC-3 daily enables the body to sustain a consistent antioxidant defense.



Why should everyone take Isotonix OPC-3?

Free radical damage and oxidative stress everyone is subject to. Free radicals develop as byproducts of physiological processes that occur within the body. This damage does not cause noticeable harm at first, yet may add up over the years. This process is largely responsible for the aging process. Free radicals have been linked directly to premature aging, poor circulation, poor heart health and poor immune health.



OPCs are the most powerful natural free radical neutralizers and you get the best of all OPCs by taking Isotonix OPC-3. Regular use every day is vital for keeping free radicals in check and a long, healthy life. Laboratory studies have shown that OPCs are more powerful antioxidants than vitamin C and vitamin E.



Can you take Isotonix OPC-3 in soda, juice, coffee, etc., rather than water?

It is possible but not recommended. This product should only be taken as directed. In order to keep the product in an isotonic form and to achieve the maximum delivery speed, it needs to be taken on an empty stomach with 2 oz. of water per capful. Mixing the products with anything else besides other Isotonix products and water slows down the delivery time and may affect the percentage of uptake.



I am healthy and athletic, why should I take Isotonix OPC-3?

Everyone is vulnerable to the aging process caused by continuous free radical damage. Athletes tend to be exposed to elevated levels of oxidative stress. Free radicals develop as byproducts during metabolism when calories are processed with oxygen. Athletes inhale 10 to 20 times more oxygen during physical activity over rest periods. The increase in activity creates additional free radicals. In fact, these free radicals are known to limit performance, as free radicals appear to take their toll on muscle tissue. Studies on recreational athletes have shown a 20 percent endurance increase with OPCs, as compared to a control group receiving a placebo. Another study has shown that athletes using OPCs suffered significantly less muscle cramping during and after performing. Isotonix OPC-3 helps to maintain healthy blood flow and this supports oxygen supply to muscles.*



Does OPC-3 have visible benefits?

As OPCs support collagen production in the skin, an increase of smoothness and elasticity is the natural result. Such an effect was objectively measured in women aged 40 years and older. Skin smoothness was increased after three months as measured by 3-dimensional topography. Likewise, increased skin elasticity was recorded with a special instrument known as a cutometer. It requires patience until skin cells have renewed significant amounts of collagen to show visible effects. It is essential to continuously take OPC-3 to keep skin cells at their peak vitality.



On a short-term basis, many people notice a fresher-looking skin complexion. This is a result of healthy blood microcirculation, which helps detoxify the skin and improves the nutrient supply. Regular use of OPC-3 helps defy photo-aging of the skin.*



Does OPC-3 have a rejuvenating effect?

The damage caused by free radicals adds up with time. A cause for more worry is the fact that your body's own mechanisms to keep free radicals in check decline with increasing age - when you need them the most. Suddenly, we find ourselves confronted with some typical age-related problems. Some cells of our body are more vulnerable to free radicals than others. OPC-3 has the ability to go in and do a knockout job, cleaning and scavenging the free radicals that feast on cellular energy, and take it away from vital processes.



What are the cardiovascular health benefits of OPCs?

Scientist Albert Szent-Gyorgyi, who received the Nobel Prize for the discovery of vitamin C, discovered OPCs. Szent-Györgyi found that OPCs work in a similar fashion. They strengthen the walls of arteries, veins and capillaries.



In the past 20 years scientists discovered that OPCs bear a lot more benefits for the cardiovascular system. Epidemiological studies have shown that regular intake of powerful OPC antioxidants supports a healthy cardiovascular system. OPCs appear to be particularly helpful in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and healthy arteries.



Pycnogenol® in Isotonix OPC-3 plays a key role, as it stimulates an enzyme in the body to promote healthy nitric oxide (NO) levels. NO is a tiny molecule which serves as a key messenger molecule in the blood stream. It promotes relaxation of smooth muscle-surrounding arteries and supports normal artery diameter and blood flow. Healthy NO levels help maintain normal blood pressure. This benefit has been explicitly demonstrated with Pycnogenol in two clinical studies. NO also promotes healthy blood platelet activity thus preserving a normal, fluid environment. OPCs are especially helpful for smokers. OPC-3 packs a powerful punch when it comes to maintaining excellent cardiovascular health.



How can OPC-3 help my eyes?

Loss of eyesight is the disability people fear more than all others. Isotonix OPC-3 contains specific OPCs successfully tested for eye health.



Bilberry extract was shown to help maintain overall eye health in the vast majority of people in a study.



Pycnogenol has been shown to support healthy capillaries in the eye. Isotonix OPC-3 helps maintain visual health and supports visual acuity.*



Does OPC-3 have benefits specifically for women?

Some OPCs were shown in clinical trials to help women who suffer from mild pain and cramping during the menstrual period. When women were supplemented with OPCs, starting at least a week before their menstrual period, pain values were found to be significantly lowered.



What exactly is Pycnogenol?

Pycnogenol is the registered trademark of Horphag Research (UK) Ltd. for a standardized extract of bark of the French maritime pine tree. Pycnogenol is particularly renowned for its extensive clinical research with more than 120 studies published in peer-reviewed medical journals. The flavonoids in Pycnogenol not only act as powerful antioxidants, they also appear to aid in the generating of nitric oxide (NO). NO plays a key role in regulating cardiovascular health. Nitric oxide triggers the relaxation of arteries, restoring the normal diameter of blood vessels and supports healthy blood pressure and circulation. NO allows platelets to be less "sticky" allowing the blood to maintain a normal, fluid viscosity. Pycnogenol has been awarded various patents for its ability to influence platelet activity. In addition, in one of the few clinical trials of Pycnogenol, it dramatically inhibited smoking-induced platelet aggregation for longer than three days at a 200 mg dose.



How do I take OPC-3?

Each capful of Isotonix OPC-3 contains 125 milligrams of bioflavonoids, of which 75 milligrams are oligomeric proanthocyanidins in an isotonic-capable base. That means that the OPC-3 active ingredients will be delivered in the highest concentration to the small intestine, where most absorption of nutrients occurs.



To start using Isotonix OPC-3 for its benefit as an antioxidant and free radical scavenger, take two level capfuls for every 150 pounds of body weight for the first seven days. This is referred to as the saturation serving. Then, switch to a daily serving of one capful, per 150 lbs. of body weight, as a maintenance dose. For example, if you weigh 190 pounds, you would take three servings of Isotonix OPC-3 per day for seven days, and then switch to two servings per day for long-term health maintenance.



Isotonix OPC-3 has a pleasant natural grape flavor, is a vegetarian product and mixes instantly when added to water. This product should be taken on an empty stomach for the fastest, most effective delivery of the active ingredient. OPC-3 is a natural food supplement that should be taken for a lifetime.



What is the history of OPCs?

In 1534, French explorer Jacques Cartier was leading an expedition up the St. Lawrence River. Trapped by bad weather, Cartier and his crew were forced to survive on a ration of salted meat and biscuits. Cartier's crew began to suffer from severe deficiency of vitamin C and showed symptoms of scurvy. Many crewmembers died before the surviving members encountered a friendly Native American who saved most of their lives. He told them to make a tea from the bark and needles of the pine tree to cure their malady. They complied and, as a result, Cartier and many crewmembers survived.



Some 400 years later, Professor Jacques Masquelier of the University of Bordeaux, France, read a book by Cartier detailing their expedition. He concluded that pine bark not only contained some vitamin C, but obviously was a good source of bioflavonoids, whose effects are similar to those of vitamin C. Further studies and research revealed that the pine bark contained an array of proanthocyanidins complexes. These compounds were also found in a variety of plants, including grape seeds, cranberries, peanut skin, lemon tree bark and citrus rinds. Masquelier termed the active ingredients of the pine bark "pycnogenols", which today are referred to in the scientific community as oligomeric proanthocyanidins, or OPCs.

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