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Dr. Rath Health Foundation

Benefits of

Micronutrients

in Women’s Health

Distribution: Dr. Rath Education Services B.V. Postbus 656, NL-6400 AR Heerlen Tel.: 0031-457-111 222 Fax: 0031-457-111 119 Email: info@rath-eduserv.com Internet: www.drrathbooks.com Published by the Dr. Rath Health Foundation. All rights reserved. Individual pages of this brochure can be copied for private and noncommercial purposes only. Any direct or indirect commercial use of this brochure or its parts in any way is strictly forbidden without the written permission of the authors.

Contents Introduction

Women’s specific health challenges

Healthy blood is Important for health, vitality, and general well-being Key nutrients for healthy blood regeneration

7 8

The importance of estrogen

More energy means better health and quality of life

How our body generates energy

Micronutrients can protect against damage from oxidative stress

Micronutrients help protect against cancer in women

Breast cancer

Lung cancer

Important but little-known biological markers of cancer

Micronutrients and Alzheimer’s disease

Micronutrient synergy helps to optimize health benefits

Combined effects of our tested micronutrient synergy team

Introduction Public health messages rarely emphasize the particular nutritional needs of women, and especially how they vary over the course of a lifetime. Physical and physiological transitions in the female body demand specific nutritional support, such as during menstruation cycles, pregnancy and lactation, or as we transition into menopause and beyond. All these are natural life events.

Nutritional needs of women vary over the course of a lifetime. Physical and physiological transitions in the female body demand specific nutritional support, such as during menstruation cycles, pregnancy and lactation, or transition into menopause and beyond.

Many women think a good diet is sufficient for health. Of course, healthy dietary habits are the basis of health; however, not everyone can consume freshlyharvested organic produce at all times. For most people, food selection varies. Thanks to advances in agriculture and food processing, our diet is calorie sufficient, but it often lacks vitamins, minerals and other micronutrients – the essential elements of health. Given the difficulties in adapting our diets to meet the body’s fluctuating demands for specific vitamins and other nutrients, nutritional supplementation is a viable solution.

We focus here on the importance of micronutrients throughout the course of women’s lives. The vital role of vitamins for health was recognized decades ago, but we have since learned much more about the health benefits of natural compounds, minerals and other nutrients. All these nutrients are necessary to support multiple functions in our body, such as enzymatic activity, biological communications within and outside of cells, and the provision of the building components of biological structures. Daily micronutrient intake, in sufficient quantities, is critical for maintaining hormonal balance and optimum immunity, protecting cells against damage, supporting normal functions of our body organs, mental health and much more. Which micronutrients we need, and in what quantities, varies with age and our body status. Public information sources advise higher intakes of vitamins D, C, calcium, and zinc at certain life stages and support dietary supplementation to meet these needs. However, they fail to inform us that individual nutrients inside our bodies do not work in isolation. Rather, they interact with each other in a variety of nutritional cycles at the cellular level. A vitamin or mineral, in excess, can shift the metabolic balance and mask deficiency of other nutrients.

Hence, the proper selection, doses and combination of micronutrients are critical for achieving desired health effects. The information presented here is based on our own research conducted at the Dr. Rath Research Institute, the pioneering institution in developing micronutrient synergies for various aspects of human health. Our team of scientists, with expertise in a wide range of scientific fields, has

The Dr. Rath Research Institute has been working on designing and testing the most effective combinations of micronutrients that can help in meeting important health challenges facing women. been working on designing and testing the most effective combinations of micronutrients that can help in addressing common health challenges facing women. We share this knowledge with women of all ages to empower them to stay healthy. This will help them to pay attention to their body’s needs at important biological stages and alleviate the impact of health issues that disproportionately impact upon women.

Women’s specific health challenges Bioenergy/vitality Brain health

Breast and lungs

Reproductive system/ menopause

Bones

Healthy blood regeneration

Antioxidant shield

Skin

The female body goes through distinct physiological stages during a lifetime: growth, hormonal changes in puberty, reproductive age and associated pregnancies, followed by menopausal changes and growing older. These normal biological transitions require specific nutritional support to proceed optimally. For instance, women of reproductive age need specific nutrients to regenerate healthy blood that is regularly lost during the monthly cycle. At any age, they need specific nutrients to assure optimum bioenergy production, protect against damaging effects of toxins, maintain hormonal balance and healthy body functions. Certain health issues are more likely to affect women than men. In addition to breast and reproductive system cancers, even incidents of lung cancer have increased more in women than in men. Women are also more often affected by an irregular heartbeat, and more women than men die of cardiovascular diseases. Among the health aspects we address here, you can learn about the benefits of micronutrients in: ... (see image at left)

Healthy blood is important for health, vitality, and general well-being

To perform its various functions, blood contains many specialized cells and components. Red blood cells transport oxygen and carbon dioxide. White blood cells determine our resistance to diseases. Platelets are needed for blood clotting and the repair of injured sites in the body. The cells in our blood are heavier than the fluid (plasma) in which they float, and if we leave blood undisturbed for several hours, the cells will sink to the bottom, leaving a pale-yellow liquid at the top (see graph). Plasma forms a transport system for the cells but also distributes various minerals, protein molecules carrying fats or sugars, antibodies, amino acids, hormones, nutrients, and many other active substances. Feelings of tiredness, apathy, loss of appetite, and other symptoms can reflect changes in the composition of blood that, if not corrected in time, can lead to serious health complications.

Lungs

Plasma

Platelet

Blood cells

Healthy blood is vital for life and health. The blood circulating in our body distributes oxygen and nutrients, defends us against microbes and other pathogens and collects carbon dioxide and biological waste products to be disposed of by the kidneys, liver, or the lungs.

55% Red blood cell

45%

Hemoglobin (in red blood cells)

White blood cell

Regeneration of healthy blood is important especially in women of reproductive age who regularly lose blood during their monthly cycle, sometimes in large amounts. Did you know that a menstruating woman can lose up to 1.7 liters of blood in a year, and with it essential nutrients? These lost nutrients, if not replenished, are the frequent cause of anemia among younger women. A regular daily supply of nutrients is also critical for another reason. Blood cells are born and die every day. For instance, white blood cells are renewed about every 4 hours. Others, such as red blood cells, live for about 2-4 months. Therefore, it is very important that essential nutrients for the formation of healthy blood are provided constantly in the diet and as supplements. © Dr. Rath Health Foundation 7.

Key nutrients for healthy blood regeneration Key micronutrients needed Red blood cell

White blood cell (neutrophil)

Iron

Vitamin B6 is needed for red blood cells’ formation to support the synthesis of heme – the iron-containing compound of hemoglobin. Low levels of vitamin B6 can cause anemia and many other health problems.

B vitamins Bone marrow Vitamin C White blood cell (lymphocyte)

Folic acid

Plasma Platelet

Bone

Bone marrow

The site of blood production, the bone marrow, fills the center of various bones. The hard bone shields this spongy organ from harm. A continuous stream of nutrients for blood production is supplied there by the small capillaries. Red blood cells, which distribute oxygen in our body, require the steady supply of iron, folic acid, B vitamins, vitamin C, E, and other nutrients that work together as a team. Among these, iron is critical for binding oxygen and carbon dioxide. Meat is the most abundant source of iron. Plants also contain iron, but in much smaller quantities and in a much less absorbable form. Its assimilation, however, is enhanced by vitamin 8.

C, which is abundant in most plants. Still, relying on plant food as the only source of iron puts women who follow a strict vegan diet at higher risk of iron deficiency and anemia.

Folic acid works together with vitamin B12, which helps to get it to the sites of blood regeneration. Since folic acid and vitamin B12 closely cooperate, the deficiency of one can be masked by the other. Preventing vitamin B12 deficiency anemia can be of concern for strict vegetarians because folic acid, which is abundant in fruits and vegetables, can mask a deficiency of vitamin B12, which is found almost exclusively in animal products. Some people can be vulnerable to vitamin B12 deficiency even if they take enough of it in their diet. The absorption of vitamin B12 requires an intrinsic factor, a compound made in the stomach. If the body’s ability to produce this factor is impaired by genetic makeup, some stomach diseases, or the aging process, it can trigger vitamin B12 deficiency. Conversely, giving exclusively vitamin B12 to a person already deficient in folic acid risks the development of severe folic acid deficiency.

Pregnant or lactating women low in vitamin B12 should also be aware that their infant could develop vitamin B12 deficiency, even if the mother remains healthy. Folic acid supply is similarly important for healthy pregnancy, especially at its early stage, to aid the growth and development of a healthy fetus and the function of its nervous system. Insufficient intake of folic acid, which is rather common among women, is associated with birth defects such as malformation of the neural tube in a growing

fetus (spina bifida). The requirements for folic acid double in pregnancy. Therefore, a balanced supply of B vitamins with other nutrients is the best way to assure the constant formation of healthy blood at any age, particularly during and after the monthly cycle, but also during pregnancy or when planning for pregnancy. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is the basis of good health. Strict vegetarians should consider taking balanced dietary supplements.

The importance of estrogen Estrogen is the main female hormone responsible for developing and maintaining the reproductive system. However, the benefits of estrogen extend beyond reproductive health as its optimum levels play an important role in cognitive health, bone health, cardiovascular function, skin health, mucous membranes, and various essential body processes. In premenopausal women, most estrogen hormones are produced in the ovaries. During menopause, the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen, until eventually production stops, but residual estrogen is still available, which comes from its synthesis in fat cells, the adrenal glands,

and the brain, among other tissues. This estrogen mostly supports tissue-specific functions in these organs and is not secreted into the bloodstream like the ovarian-produced hormone. The most common risk factors for low estrogen levels in women of reproductive age are a family history of hormonal issues such as ovarian cysts, and eating disorders. The natural decrease in estrogen during the menopause is associated with various symptoms, including hot flashes and night sweats, low energy, mood changes, sleep problems, slower metabolism, and weight gain. © Dr. Rath Health Foundation 9.

The influence of estrogen Brain

Heart Breast Liver Bones Skin

Ovary Uterus

Estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) based on synthetic estrogen taken by many women to relieve pre-menopausal and menopausal symptoms has been associated with increased risk of breast cancer and other serious side effects. In search of a natural-based alternative, we tested the effects of a combination of vitamins, plant extracts, and other nutrients, on estrogen production by human ovarian granulosa cells. 90

This is what our study shows 17 Beta Estradiol pg/ml

We exposed human ovarian granulosa cells to the specific mixture of natural ingredients and measured how they affect the production of estradiol – the main female estrogen hormone. The results show that ovarian cells enriched with this nutrient formulation could increase estrogen production by 43% in comparison to non-supplemented control.

Estrogen higher by 43%

80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

Control

Basic Women’s Health Formula, 500 mcg/ml

What are the practical implications of these results? Improved estrogen production is important in a variety of aspects of female physiology. It has been shown to lessen the frequency and severity of menstrual cramps, to improve treatment of acne, and to reduce the risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer, pelvic inflammatory disease, and non-cancerous ovarian cysts in women of reproductive age. Increasing estrogen levels naturally during the menopause can help in relieving menopausal symptoms, supporting heart and brain functions, improving muscle mass, protecting against bone loss, and boosting your mood – all without the side effects of synthetic estrogen. 10.

More energy means better health and quality of life The word “energy” has many meanings. Energy in our body means health and joy in life. This biological energy is created inside our body cells and supports a regular and strong heartbeat, building strong muscles and bones, and performing all life tasks.

fertility, above all in females. Conditions that impair bioenergy generation, such as eating disorders, malnutrition, obesity, or strenuous physical activity (athletes), can generate various fertility problems independent of other factors.

We recognize how important energy is in supporting physical and psychological processes, including preventing mental and physical fatigue. Our brain needs particularly high amounts of biological energy and consumes about 20% of the body’s energy. There is also a close interconnection between energy metabolism and

How our body generates energy Biological energy – bioenergy – is generated in billions of tiny cells building our body. These cells convert food – fats, sugars and proteins – to energy-rich biological carrier molecules that function like cell batteries. Bioenergy formation occurs in a series of chemical reactions that take place in biological powerplants – specific cell organelles called mitochondria. This process requires oxygen and a variety of micro-

nutrients as catalysts, including vitamin C and B vitamins. The most abundant bioenergy carrier molecule in cells is Adenosine 5’-triphosphate, or ATP, which drives the entire body metabolism. While it is easy to link cellular ATP production with feeling our body’s total energy, we rarely realize the importance of ATP energy for a healthy reproductive sys-

Diet Carbohydrates Fats Proteins Digested and metabolized products

Oxygen Brain cell Mitochondrion Nucleus

ATP High energy

Human cell

Uterus

Fallopian tube Fertilization

Egg Ovary

12.

tem, the fertilization process and healthy pregnancy. Right before ovulation, the egg inside the follicle needs energy to detach itself and move to the entrance of the fallopian tube. Once the egg is inside the walls of the fallopian tube, tiny hair cells and smooth muscle cells utilize energy to push it gently towards the uterus. The egg will either meet sperm on its journey through the fallopian tube and fertilization will happen, or it will arrive in the uterus unfertilized and leave the body. Vitamins, minerals, and active plant components support ATP synthesis, thereby coordinating energy metabolism for all these processes. Along with the brain, among other organs, our skeletal muscle and heart have high energy consumption. Bioenergy supports strong and regular contraction of the heart muscle to move blood around our body. In our quest to provide effective natural support for bioenergy production, we evaluated the effects of a specific micronutrient combination on ATP synthesis in the cells building the heart muscle.

This is what our study shows We exposed human heart muscle cells to a specific combination of vitamins, plant compounds, and other active ingredients and measured how it affects the ATP production in these cells. We then compared the results to the ATP produced in control cells, which were maintained in their standard cell culture medium. 9000

Our results clearly show the power of this micronutrient combination. In the presence of the tested micronutrients, these human cells produced 451% more ATP compared to control cells, which contained only a standard supply of nutrients.

ATP production increased by 451%

8000

Luminescence (RLU)

7000 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Control

Basic Women’s Health Formula, (1 mg/ml)

What are the practical implications of these results? Since ATP synthesis occurs through similar mechanisms in all other cell types of our body, this micronutrient combination can also have beneficial effects on all other cells in our body, including skeletal muscle, cells building the female reproductive system, brain, and all other body organs.

Micronutrients can protect against damage from oxidative stress We all know about the dangers of reactive oxidant molecules (oxygen radicals), which, in excess, can seriously damage our body cells and structures. This is called “oxidative stress,” which originates from many sources, both from the environment (e.g., UV radiation, toxins) and our body’s normal metabolism. Oxygen radicals are associated with accelerated aging and numerous diseases, including cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, cardiovascular conditions such as high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, inflammatory disorders, chronic fatigue syndrome, and asthma. Oxidative stress also has negative effects on the female reproductive system, impairing fertility at various levels. Oxidative damage can affect egg cell maturation, fertilization, implantation, and embryo development, and

14.

hence contributes to the pathophysiology of pregnancy-related complications, endometriosis, polycystic ovarian disease, unexplained infertility, and the development of gynecological cancers. In order to combat cellular damage, various antioxidant vitamins and supplements have been identified to protect against oxidative processes. Aiming at achieving the best physiological effects, we tested the antioxidant potential of a specific micronutrient composition, which gives us valuable information about its ability to neutralize free radicals and to protect cells against oxidative damage.

This is what our study shows The antioxidant capacity of the mixture of vitamins, plant extracts, and other active compounds was measured by conducting an FRAP assay (Ferric Reducing Ability of Plasma). This method has been widely used to measure the antioxidant capacity of food and to evaluate the antioxidant potential of various micronutrient mixtures. The antioxidant potential of

such nutrient compositions is expressed as mM Ferrous equivalents (mM FE). The results show that our micronutrient mixture has very high antioxidant capacity, which was 400% higher compared to a random antioxidant compound used as control. Antioxidant capacity higher by 400%

70 60

FE(mM)

50 40 30 20 10 0

Positive

Basic Women’s Health Formula

What are the practical implications of these results? A nutrient formulation with high antioxidant potential can benefit the entire body, protecting various organs from damage and the development of numerous diseases.

Micronutrients help to protect against cancer in women The numbers of breast, ovarian, and cervical cancers are still increasing in many countries of the world. This situation calls for revising current approaches and shifting our economic and intellectual resources towards investigating and applying advances in natural health with scientifically proven efficacy. With decades of scientific work in this field, the Dr. Rath Research Institute has an impressive record in developing synergy-based micronutrient programs with documented benefits in related diseases. Among others, our numerous scientific publications thoroughly document how specific

16.

micronutrients and their combinations target key mechanisms involved in the development and progression of many types of cancer in different organs of the body (www.drrathresearch.org/publications). On the next page we present test results obtained with the micronutrient complex, which, in addition to health benefits in female physiology indicated earlier, has shown to be effective in curbing cellular processes associated with cancers that predominantly affect women.

Breast cancer Breast cancer affects women in every country of the world and at any age after puberty. In 2020, there were more than 2.26 million new cases of breast cancer in women worldwide. Belgium had the highest rate of breast cancer, followed by the Netherlands. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the USA and Europe. The risk for breast cancer increases with age, as about 80% of women diagnosed with breast cancer are 45 years old or older, and about 43% are 65 or above. The majority (about 70-80%) of breast cancers in women are estrogen-receptor positive, meaning that they need estrogen to grow. Research suggests that estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer is likely to come back more than five years after diagnosis. In women of reproductive age, estrogen is available from its production in the ovaries, and as such, it can fuel the growth of estrogen-dependent tumors. Therefore, it is important to curb breast cancer cell multiplication in the presence of this hormone. Pharmacological approaches rely on the use of tamoxifen which blocks cellular receptors used by estrogen, or other pharmacological drugs that suppress ovarian function and estrogen synthesis. All these are associated with many side effects.

Breast cancer involves many stages, but its basic feature, like other cancers, is excessive and continuous multiplication of abnormal (cancerous) cells that leads to the formation of tumors. Therefore, regular breast exams are important to detect any abnormalities early. In our search for effective natural means to impair the growth of estrogen-dependent breast cancer cells, we evaluated the effects of specific micronutrients including natural estrogenic compounds from soy and other plants. We exposed breast cancer cells to estrogen and several natural compounds individually and as a complex and evaluated how they affect growth of breast cancer cells.

This is what our study shows Human breast cancer cells that depend on estrogen for growth have a high multiplication rate when exposed to this hormone (line 1). The effects of individual natural compounds – vitamins, plant extracts, and other active components – are represented as individual columns from 2 to 6. The taller the column, the higher the growth of breast cancer cells.

The mixture of all these ingredients significantly inhibited cancer cell proliferation by about 40% compared to an estrogenonly control. The benefits of a combination are superior to each individual component to reach a meaningful inhibitory effect. Also, multiple compounds in the mixture provide numerous benefits by simultaneously affecting a variety of anti-cancer cellular mechanisms (e.g., bioenergy, antioxidant).

These results show that all individual compounds tested here could decrease cancer cell proliferation but to a different degree.

1. Control (β-17-estradiol) 2. Vitamin C 3. Vitamin B complex 4. Vitamin E 5. Iodine 6. Basic Women’s Health Formula, a combination of the ingredients with other natural compounds.

Proliferation rate (OD450)

0.20

0.15

0.10

0.05

0 1

18.

Lung cancer One of the ways cancers develop involves chronic inflammation that occurs deep in various parts of the body. Over time it can damage cellular DNA, triggering the abnormal behavior of cells and the risk of cancer. Cigarette smoking and environmental pollutants can trigger chronic inflammation in the lungs and are recognized causes of lung cancer. Sustained inflammation promotes cancer through various mechanisms, such as cell growth, invasion, angiogenesis, and metastasis.

The risk of developing lung cancer and its progression can be affected by and monitored using different metabolic markers, which are specific biological molecules that accompany cancer development.

Important but little-known biological markers of cancer Cancer markers used in cancer diagnosis and in monitoring its progression are proteins and other substances that tumor cells produce in larger quantities than healthy cells. The most examined markers in lung cancer are CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen), some hormonal peptides, and in breast cancer BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations, estrogen/ progesterone receptors, and antigens such as CA15-3 or CA 27-29. However, other natural compounds can also identify the risk and impact of this disease.

ApoE (apolipoprotein E) is among the best‐verified potential prognostic or diagnostic markers in many cancers. ApoE is a protein known for its function in transporting fatty molecules (a part of HDL lipoprotein), but it is also known for its ability to induce inflammation in the tumor microenvironment. Its high expression promotes cancer growth and migration and contributes to the aggressive clinical course of the disease.

iNOS (inducible nitric oxide synthase) is another important cancer marker. It is an enzyme required for the production of an important biological molecule, nitric oxide (NO). NO has multiple functions in the body, such as relaxation of blood vessel walls important in normalizing blood pressure. However, tumors, including

breast, ovarian, lungs, and many others have a high activity of iNOS that promotes tumor vascularization and other cancer-supporting processes.

This is what our study shows We tested the effects of micronutrients on regulating ApoE and iNOS production at the genetic level by measuring the amount of cellular mRNA (messenger RNA) transcribed from the respective genes in the DNA. This cellular mRNA is then used as a template to produce ApoE and iNOS proteins, which are used as markers of cancer. The RNA level in our study was measured using RT-PCR technology. In order to mimic a cancer microenvironment, we treated human lung cancer cells with a pro-inflammatory factor – cytokine

20.

IL1b – which also has a critical function in malignancies by promoting cancer initiation and progression. Our test results confirm that cellular inflammation can promote cancer by increasing iNOS expression by about 10 times compared to a normal control. They also show a powerful effect of micronutrients that, in this pro-cancer environment, can inhibit iNOS by about 60% and ApoE expression by 56% compared to untreated cancer cells (control).

Relative amounts of transcripts

iNOS 12

10.5

Inflammation induces iNOS2 expression by more than 10 times

8 6

iNOS2 expression under pro-inflammatory conditions decreased by 60%

4 2 0

4.3 1

Control No inflammation

ApoE

IL1 + E2

IL1 + Basic Women’s Health Formula

Transcriptional Activity (%)

120 100

100 ApoE decreased by 56%

80 60 40 44

20 0

None

IL1 - Basic Women’s Health Formula

What are the practical implications of these results? Our results decipher the cellular effects of this nutrient combination that are important in curbing cancer at the genetic level. The significant lowering effect of micronutrients on ApoE and iNOS cancer markers implies that a similar outcome could be expected at the levels of entire organs and the body. ApoE and iNOS2 are elevated in other forms of cancer, and the benefits of these micronutrients expand to many types of cancers.

Micronutrients and Alzheimer’s disease As presented earlier, ApoE has multiple effects in our body. In addition to its role in facilitating cancer, elevated ApoE levels in females are an important risk factor for cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease. In this context, the ApoE gene is responsible for the production of a protein present in the central nervous system and body periphery, which represents a critical link between these two systems and could influence the development of Alzheimer’s disease by disrupting the blood-brain barrier integrity from both sides. Another way that ApoE promotes Alzheimer’s pathology is by its impact on

immunity and inflammation, as various data demonstrate that pro‐inflammatory cytokine production is higher when ApoE levels are elevated. We used fibroblast cells originating from young and old donors afflicted by Alzheimer’s disease to evaluate the effects of a specific micronutrient mixture on ApoE expression in the presence of pro-inflammatory conditions (IL1b) and without inflammation. We applied RT-PCR technology to measure the amount of ApoE protein transcripted from the ApoE gene (transcripted activity).

This is what our study shows

22.

Without inflammation, the micronutrients could inhibit ApoE by 97% compared to the control.

ity of control cells. In the cells derived from young Alzheimer’s patients, the ApoE transcription decreased by 67%.

ApoE expression in cells from Alzheimer’s patients increases under pro-inflammatory conditions (in the presence of IL1). However, micronutrients significantly decreased ApoE expression under this inflammatory condition, even to the level well below the transcriptional activ-

The impact of micronutrients on ApoE was even higher in cells from old Alzheimer’s patients and resulted in 94% inhibition of ApoE transcription. We observed that cells derived from young patients were more susceptible to these micronutrients when not exposed to inflammation.

A. Normal conditions Transcriptional Activity (%)

120 100

100 80

97% less

60 40 20 3.1

None

Basic Women’s Health Formula

B. With inflammation Transcriptional Activity (%)

140 120

15% higher

100

67% less

80 60

94% less

40 Young

20 0

Old

IL1

IL1 + Basic IL1 + Basic Women’s Women’s Health Formula Health Formula

What are the practical implications of these results? Since elevated ApoE levels and female gender are considered risk factors for developing Alzheimer’s disease, micronutrients tested in our study offer important benefits through their inhibitory effect on transcription of ApoE – one of the major risk factors for this disease. Their high efficacy under normal and pro-inflammatory conditions suggest their value in both prevention and therapeutic aspects of this devastating disease.

Micronutrient synergy helps to optimize health benefits

The term “micronutrients” extends beyond vitamins and minerals and includes numerous active plant components, amino acids, and other metabolites with a critical role in cellular metabolism. Wide-ranging health effects of specific micronutrients tested as a nutrient synergy team are presented below. Vitamin B6, vitamin C, and iodine are important for supporting the normal functioning of the nervous and immune system, with iodine being necessary for thyroid activity and the normal production of thyroid hormones. Selenium, folic acid, and vitamin C are important in supporting the function of the immune system. 24.

Vitamins B5, B6, and C contribute to reducing tiredness and fatigue by increasing glucose utilization to boost energy production. Vitamin B6 is needed to metabolize proteins and helps make neurotransmitters. These include gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), dopamine, and serotonin. It also affects the activity of steroid receptors (estrogen) in cellular membranes. Therefore, vitamin B6 status may influence one’s risk of developing diseases driven by steroid hormones, such as breast cancer. Vitamin B6 and choline with folic acid or vitamin B12 are important for maintaining healthy levels of homocysteine, an amino acid normally found in our blood. Deficien-

cies of these vitamins increase the homocysteine level, an independent risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Vitamin E, vitamin C, and selenium are powerful antioxidants protecting the cells against oxidative stress that underlies numerous health problems. Vitamin C is the most important blood antioxidant, an essential nutrient for the production of collagen and connective tissue, as well as bioenergy. Healthy collagen is necessary for maintaining strong and elastic blood vessels and optimum function of the cardiovascular system, skin, reproductive system, bones, and cartilage, among others. Vitamin C supports healthy immunity and hormonal balance. Choline, inositol, and phosphatidyl serine work together in our body, particularly in fat metabolism and nervous system functions. Choline and phosphatidyl serine are essential nutrients produced in our body in limited amounts that are insufficient to fulfill our body’s needs. Choline is a precursor of acetylcholine, necessary for brain function. Inositol (also referred to as vitamin B8) is a type of sugar that helps to provide structure to our cells as a part of phospholipids building our cell mem-

branes. Healthy membranes are essential in assuring optimum transport of nutrients inside and outside cells. Inositol can also improve insulin resistance and the function of chemical messengers in our brain and nerves. These nutrients are important for healthy cell growth, lipid metabolism, and liver function by helping eliminate toxins, supporting fertility and healthy pregnancy and infant development. Soy isoflavones classified as phytoestrogens possess both estrogen-agonist and estrogen-antagonist properties. They are present as glycosides – molecules bound to sugar (i.e., genistin, daidzin, and glycitin) and as individual aglycones called genistein, daidzein, and glycitein. High isoflavone intake from soy foods has been associated with reducing the risk of breast cancer, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease. Soy isoflavones have been applied as a safe alternative to hormone replacement therapy in reducing menopause-related symptoms, including hot flashes and night sweats. Chaste tree berry, also known as Monk’s pepper, is rich in antioxidants and other nutrients and has been linked to many health benefits, e.g., cardiovascular health, blood sugar control and weight management. It © Dr. Rath Health Foundation 25.

benefits hormonal balance in the female body and has been used for lessening symptoms that may occur during the female monthly cycle, PMS (premenstrual syndrome), and menopause.

Clove contains eugenol, which has antiinflammatory properties and is beneficial in easing the symptoms of the female monthly cycle. This oil can also limit excessive menstrual bleeding. It shows benefits in ovulation and increased energy levels. Rich in antioxidant compounds, clove supports natural body defenses in reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, as well as in supporting the healthy function of gums and oral health.

Rosemary, rich in carnosol, carnosic acid, and many antioxidant compounds, has been known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and anti-allergic effects, as well as normalizing blood pressure, blood glucose levels, and weight management. It is often combined with selenium for increased benefits.

Combined effects of our tested micronutrient synergy team Blood regeneration Improved immunity

Energy/stamina

Reproductive system/fertility

Normalizing homocysteine Cardiovascular benefits

Synergy

Better skin

26.

Menopausal symptoms alleviation Anti-cancer effects

Improved thyroid function Nervous system benefits

PMS alleviation

Anti-Alzheimer’s pathology Antioxidant

RESEARCHERS Aleksandra Niedzwiecki, Ph.D. As the Director of Research at the Dr. Rath Research Institute, Dr. Niedzwiecki and her team are researching and developing unique nutrient synergy approaches in various aspects of health and disease. This work in cardiovascular health, cancer, infections, and other areas has led to establishing the link between disease prevention and the biochemical synergy of nutrients.

Gabriela N Lopez, Ph.D. Dr. Lopez has been conducting research on hormone regulations by nuclear receptors for over 15 years, starting as a visiting student and advancing to Research Molecular Biologist at the University of California, San Francisco. As an associate researcher at our institute, she investigates the effects of natural compounds in regulating the expression of genes important in various aspects of health. Anna Goc, Ph.D. Dr. Goc is a senior researcher at the Dr. Rath Research Institute. She leads the microbiology laboratory focused on developing effective and safe approaches to controlling infections. She has wide-ranging knowledge in the fields of microbiology, immunology, cancer, and vascular biology. Her research at the Dr. Rath Research Institute focuses on the benefits of micronutrients and their synergy in various aspects of human metabolism. Parthena Boulikas, B.S. Parthena Boulikas studied Biology in Canada and conducted scientific work at different companies, including the Linus Pauling Institute and biopharmaceutical companies (Johnson & Johnson and Delpor). As a member of our research team, she works on the role of nutrients in the prevention of various diseases.

Matthias Rath, M.D. Dr. Rath is a world-renowned physician and scientist known for his pioneering research in natural and cellular health. He is the founder of the scientific concept of Cellular Medicine, introducing practical knowledge and applications of micronutrients in various aspects of health into clinical medicine.

Disclaimer: This booklet is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice of a physician. The reader should regularly consult a physician in matters relating to his or her health and particularly in respect to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention.

Tesla 1 6422 RG Heerlen The Netherlands Tel.: 0031-457-111 222 Fax: 0031-457-111 119 Email: info@dr-rath-foundation.org Internet: www.dr-rath-foundation.org

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