In the search for a compound to "turn on" telomerase, an enzyme that restores telomeres, Dr. Andrews and Anderson will screen thousands of natural compounds.

When people talk of “turning back the clock” or living in perpetual youth, it’s all too easy to write them off as quacks or having watched a little too much science fiction—but that’s not so when talking with molecular biologist Bill Andrews, Ph.D., who has studied aging at the molecular level for more than 15 years.

Dr. Andrews is one of the world’s authorities on the biology of telomeres, which are sequences of repetitive non-coding DNA segments found at the ends of chromosomes. Telomeres, commonly likened to the plastic tips on shoelaces (perhaps too simply, says Dr. Andrews), protect chromosomes from damage and decrease each time a cell divides and replicates. 

The length of telomeres is directly linked to age. When we are born our telomeres are long,  but they shorten with each cell cycle as cells continually divide. Telomere length is the nearest measure that science has ever found to determine lifespan in humans, horses, dogs and cats—it acts as an the internal “hourglass” or “biological clock” for aging.

A genuine measure in humans for determining lifespan is groundbreaking medical science – so much that Dr. Andrews says he is delighted that his colleagues Drs. Elizabeth Blackburn, Carol Greider, and Jack Szozstak won a Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2009 for their own discoveries in telomere biology.

His own  breakthrough finding was the detection of an enzyme called telomerase, which acts directly on telomeres to replace DNA bases that have been lost to cell division. It’s a key finding because telomerase can be produced by all types of human cells if they are given an appropriate signal, a signal that could  ”reverse aging” and increase the lifespan in humans.

Who wouldn’t want to live a longer, healthier life past 125? The potential to increase healthy lifespan is the reason that Dr. Andrews has screened thousands of compounds searching for ones that stimulate telomerase activity.

Enter John Anderson   

Isagenix Founder and Master Formulator John Anderson

On Aug. 22 at Isagenix Celebration 2010 in San Diego, Isagenix Founder and Master Formulator John Anderson  announced that Isagenix will enter into the forefront of anti-aging products. He also introduced Dr. Andrews and new research they will work on together.

“Dr. Andrews developed the technology to test, verify the activity, and authenticate the effectiveness of natural ingredients that will turn back our human time clock,” said Anderson. “My role will be to search the world for botanicals, natural bacteria and other materials that hold the secrets of youth. These ingredients will undergo full screening by Dr. Andrews to verify its activity, whether or not there’s a ‘hit’.”

Giving credit where it’s due, Dr. Andrews and Anderson said the “genius” plan to work together actually came from Peter Greenlaw, a top Isagenix Associate. Greenlaw was fascinated with Dr. Andrews and his research.

But Dr. Andrews had focused almost completely on drugs and chemicals until Greenlaw suggested to him, “Why not try natural products? I know just the man you need to meet. He has been working with natural botanicals and has formulated thousands of natural products for more than 30 years.”

Dr. Andrews said the idea was brilliant, so Greenlaw arranged for Anderson and Dr. Andrews to meet together on the project. When they met, Dr. Andrews became immediately impressed with Anderson’s vast knowledge of herbs and botanicals while Anderson was impressed with Dr. Andrews.

While awaiting age reversal, slow telomere shortening

Dr. Andrews, discoverer of telomerase

As promising as the discovery of telomerase is in the science of antiaging, Dr. Andrews and Anderson say that for the time being people should focus on implementing the known lifestyle changes that reduce the rate of telomere shortening.

While on stage at Celebration, Dr. Andrews shared that these lifestyle changes included quitting smoking, exercising, and reducing stress.

Dr. Andrews also said that Isagenix products should be added to an antiaging regimen, “There have been at least three publications in the last year showing that some dietary supplements can help slow telomere shortening. When I looked at the ingredients in Ageless Essentials [Daily Pack], I found they were all in there. Isagenix put some real thought into this.”

The company’s Ageless Essentials Daily Pack features AM and PM packets containing key antiaging-focused products: Ageless Actives, Essentials for Men/Women, IsaOmega Supreme and C-Lyte.

As a person actively engaged in extending his own lifespan (he wears a pin on his suit-coat lapel that says “Cure Aging or Die Trying”), Dr. Andrews said he was delighted to start using the Ageless Essentials Daily Pack right away because of its convenience for getting all the nutrients he needs.  

Ageless Essentials Daily Pack is a convenient way to receive key antiaging nutrients.

Determined to Defeat Aging

Convenience comes at a high value to a person who is as resolved to defeat aging as Dr. Andrews – determination is a defining characteristic of the man, who also happens to be a regular on the ultra-marathon running scene.

“When I or somebody else is healthy enough to run a seven-minute mile when they’re 130 years old, that’s when I’m going to know that we’ve cured aging,” Dr. Andrews said. “That’s my benchmark. I love life, I never want to die, and I plan on running a 100-mile race when I’m 100 years old.”

Dr. Andrews suggests that with healthy lifestyle habits such as regular exercise, eating right, and taking Ageless Essentials Daily Pack, we could all join him in staying healthy long enough to see radical reversal of aging in our futures.

With Dr. Andrews and Anderson working on telomerase research together, we can expect the day of increasing healthy life spans to come sooner rather than later.

• Marilyn Territo, a clinical paramedical esthetician, presented an indepth look into the anti-skin-aging particulars behind new skincare products Isa SunGuard and Ageless Renewal Serum.
• David Despain, Isagenix manager of science communications, demonstrated the latest science and featured technolgies in new Essentials for Men/Women.

Isa SunGuard and Ageless Renewal Serum

On Monday,  Marilyn Territo shared an indepth look into the new skincare antiaging products. Unlike other sunscreens on the market that use chemical ultraviolet ray absorbers and don’t protect the skin fully, Territo told us Isa SunGuard features zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

“These natural minerals work in synergy to block both UVB rays (the burning rays) and UVA rays (the aging rays),” she said.

Marilyn Territo

Territo told us the new Isa Sunguard is not only a sunscreen protecting against sunburn, but also offers key protection from cumulative effects of photodamage that contribute to skin aging. For ultimate sun protection, recommendations are to reapply sunscreen every 80 minutes.

Isa SunGuard is a product that provides unsurpassed protection without toxic ingredients. And, besides protecting the body’s largest organ, it is water-resistant helps to leave your skin looking luminous and feeling hydrated all day long. Learn more about Isa SunGuard by following the link to this new product Web site.

When presenting on the Ageless Renewal Serum, Territo could barely contain her excitement in sharing, “Our new Ageless Renewal Serum provides raw constituents to repair, renew, and regenerate skin.”

What Territo refers to as ”raw constituents,” she explains, are a high concentration of epidermal growth factors that govern the process of skin’s production of matrix proteins such as collagen and elastin. 

The technology is called Repair-Plex™, and is the newest development in skin care offered by Isagenix that helps diminish the appearance of deep lines and wrinkles while firming, toning, balancing and brightening the skin for a healthy and luminous glow.

UPDATE 08/26/10 -

Territo also shared instructions on how to best use Ageless Renewal Serum: 

Morning

1. Cleanse with Gentle Cleansing Gel
2. Use the Intensive Microderm:  2-3 times per week for sensitive, dry, mature skin. It can be used daily for oily and combination skin. Note: Do not use the Anti-Aging Treatment Toner (when applying Ageless Renewal Serum) 
3. On dry skin, apply Ageless Renewal Serum.
4. Apply Antioxidant C Serum with CoQ10.
5. Apply Age-Defying Eye Cream.
6. Apply Isa SunGuard for UV protection and as a day lotion. Note:  For extremely dry and/or mature skin, you can use a thin film of Moisture-Rich Day Cream prior to applying Isa SunGuard. 

Night 

1. Follow the same regimen as the morning program, except do not repeat Intensive Microderm if you already used it in the morning. 
2. Use Intensive Renewal Night Cream instead of Isa SunGuard

Learn more about Ageless Renewal Serum at this just-launced product Web site.

Essentials Demonstration

On Tuesday, David Despain shed skepticism and debunked myths about taking multivitamins and gave a demonstration of the rapid disintegration technology and with animations illustrating optimal release technologies featured in Isagenix Essentials.  

Despain told us that people often offer these common excuses when it comes to buying quality multivitamins:

- I already receive sufficient vitamins and minerals from my diet.
- I’m really interested only in losing weight.
- I heard tablets don’t disintegrate or absorb. It’s just expensive feces. - I already take a generic multivitamin.

David answered each question head on. First of all, he told us, we know that we’re overfed yet undernourished based on National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys:  “Despite our present obesity epidemic, most of us receive insufficient amounts of vitamins and minerals. We are getting enough to prevent clinical deficiencies that lead to scurvy, pellagra, rickets and beri beri, but we aren’t receiving the amounts recommended by the Institute of Medicine for long-term health.”

He added, “This is why, in 2002, the Journal of American Medical Association recommended taking a multinutrient to achieve optimal intakes of vitamins A, C, E, B6, B12 and minerals such as zinc and calcium.”

Despain added that common weight-loss diets make the situation even worse because although calorie-restriction is important, it could lead to clinical deficiencies as reported in two studies recently.

While more and more people are beginning to understand the importance of taking multivitamins, which is clear from statistics from the Council of Responsible Nutrition showing 65 percent of the population in the United States take multivitamins presently, Despain told us that what most people don’t realize is that nutrition science is always changing and we know more every day. 

“We need to think of multivitamins as we do cars, computers and cellphones,” David said. “Most multivitamins are like old-style cellphones with few features, while others have features galore like iPhone or Droid and have great cellphone reception.” Can you hear me now? 

In the multivitamin world, Despain says, this is what people should look for:

David Despain

• Like apps on a mobile phone - A quality multivitamin should be based on the latest nutrition science for long-term health including higher amounts of vitamin D, buffered vitamin C, vitamin K2 (not K1), optimized vitamin A and E amounts, vitamin E as mixed tocopherols, and tailored to men’s and women’s needs.
• Like great cellphone reception – A quality multivitamin should feature rapid disintegration and optimal absorption technologies for greatest benefit to the body.  

To illustrate these points, Despain gave a demonstration showing how quickly Isagenix Essentials tablets disintegrates in comparison to competing companies ranging from generics to network marketing companies.

With help from a volunteer, he placed one tablet from each company into beakers filled with 100 mL of white distilled vinegar tested to show they all had a pH of about 2.4. After a few minutes, the Isagenix Essentials clearly disintegrated at a faster rate than the other products.

“We’re not poopooing these other products; they’re great products from great companies,” said Despain. “It’s just that our Essentials kicks the other products’ trash.”

Despain followed by showing animations of common issues with multivitamin absorption such as:

• oversaturation (example: when there’s too much calcium, a lot doesn’t get absorbed)
• mineral competitiveness (example: zinc and copper inhibit each other’s absorption) 
• chelation (example: when phytates are present from foods or ingredients, they binds to minerals and inhibit absorption)

The design of Essentials (including dosages, forms and sources of nutrients) takes into consideration oversaturation, mineral competitiveness and chelation by delivering nutrients in timed intervals to enhance overall absorption. 

Despain told the audience, “It’s the difference between opening the floodgates like most multivitamins do versus providing nutrients in waves for optimal release and availability in the body.”

To learn more about Isagenix Essentials and Ageless Essentials Pack, follow the links to their new product Web sites here and here.

What else would you expect but serious technical information from the likes of well-informed speakers like Mark Kimes, D.C., Paul Anderson, M.D., Dennis Harper, D.O., Susie Rockway Ph.D.,  and Nicole Kafka, M.D.!

Live-blogged directly from the event, below is a summary of nuggets learned from Sunday’s speakers with a few quotes.

Kimes

First up today was Dr. Kimes, who presented on IsaLean Shake and Ionix Supreme, both of which are designed to help the body run at “optimal body performance.” Dr. Kimes told us that the adaptogen-rich Ionix drink is a “great body body-balancer” that keeps you running at your best under pressure.

Additionally, when Ionix Supreme is taken along with a completely balanced like IsaLean Shake, Dr. Kimes told us, “people can count on pure, wholesome nutrition to meet the demands of the body at all times.”

Second, Dr. Anderson delivered a few provocative points in his presentation on IsaDelights. These specially formulated dark chocolates help you to naturally produce the “feel-good chemicals” that are critical for losing weight and for romance.

“When your brain is struggling and not happy, you’re not happy,” said Dr. Anderson. So feed your brain optimal nutrition and health with Isagenix and IsaDelight!

Dr. Anderson

Dr. Anderson adds the dark chocolates are excellent for getting through Cleanse Days. He told us, “Cleansing is challenging,” but with IsaDelights you can get through them easily by feeding the brain nutrients that cause you to feel your best.

Third up were both Rockway and Dr. Harper with a set-up to teach the audience about technical details behind good, healthy water. “All we need is good, clean food, clean air, clean water and our bodies know what to do,” Dr. Harper said kicking off the presentation on water. 

Dr. Harper

Dr. Harper and Rockway went through the particulars about making sure you’re receiving great-tasting water, low total dissolved solids (TDS), negative oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) – the three factors to look for when finding quality water for your health. Ultimate solution? Drink purified water and treat it with a drop of high-negative ORP IsaWater Alkalized Concentrate.

Lastly, Dr. Kafka took stage with Rockway to educate us (once again, see yesterday’s post) on the importance of “healthy snacking” for poor digestive health and losing weight. According to the speakers, you should watch the calories, but also realize that manufactured foods are often designed to keep you eating them as long as possible.

Dr. Kafka

If you want satisfying, healthy snacks, then the key is to stick to high-protein or high-fiber foods in the form of whole fruits, nuts, vegetables as well as great Isagenix products such as SlimCakes, IsaLean Bars (cut into pieces), Isagenix Snacks (for Cleanse Days), and IsaDelights.

Both Rockway and Dr. Kafka are experts on fiber and couldn’t help but give us a background bulk of information on the differences between soluble and insoluble fiber. Both are critically important for keeping the heart and the gut healthy long term. 

That was it for Sunday, but stay tuned for new product launches tonight and Monday’s and Tuesday’s  Product Vignettes on “New Products.” Exciting!

On Saturday, we kicked off Isagenix Product Vignettes with several speakers including Tony Escobar, Peter Greenlaw, MD, Paul Anderson, MD, Nicole Kafka, MD, Susie Rockway, PhD, Patrick Bitter, Andrea Henkart, Mark Kimes, DC, Jim Rhoades, and Tony O’Donnell — a great line-up! 

Isagenix will be following up with coverage on these speakers, but for now here is a summary with some highlights and quotes from their talks:  

Randi & Tony Escobar

First, Tony Escobar gave us a charged discussion of why it’s so important to cleanse and enjoy a diet rich in alkaline foods for optimal health. Then, he delivered what he called the “tripple whammy for the heart” — Ageless Actives, IsaOmega Supreme and IsaFlush. These support cardiovascular health with nutrients such as CoQ10, fish oil and magnesium.   

Peter Greenlaw followed Tony in discussing the unfortunate nature of our world replete with toxins. He told us to think of a diet like a seesaw, tipping the balance toward nutrition, and “get your mind off calories.” Thanks to Peter for reminding us also that we’re all “educators” first, not salespeople. We’re morally obligated to help people with their health whenever we can.   

Greenlaw

Dr. Anderson

Third up was Paul Anderson, creator of IsaDelight chocolates, discussing how these “happy chocolates” help satisfy our brains. As far as Dr. Anderson’s concerned, in fact, “on average, Isagenix Associates are just happier than other people.” A regular amount of cleansing and replenishing nutrients is critical for keeping up mood, thereby also helping you to avoid junk food and lose weight.

Dr. Kafka

Dr. Nicole Kafka, a colon and rectal surgeon, followed next with Susie Rockway, a nutritional biochemist, to discuss how to best use snacks for losing weight. Dr. Kafka told us: Snacking is good, but “most snacks are manufactured to get you to eat more of them!” The key to weight loss is snacking on high-fiber or high-protein foods such as whole fruits and vegetables, or Isagenix products such as SlimCakes, IsaLean Bars (cut into pieces), Snacks, and IsaDelights. Adds Rockway, ”If you’re going to put something in your mouth, make sure it does something for you.”

Dr. Bitter

Sixth up was Patrick Bitter, a dermatologist, who discussed why great-looking skin depends on healthy nutrition and quality skin care. Bitter enjoys Isagenix’s  line of IsaDermix products because it serves as a complete system for cleansing, toning, and moisturizing. With IsaDermix, he says you can certainly be looking your best and defy the effects of aging. 

Henkart

Andrea Henkart followed with tips for healthy tips for healthy kids. Henkart, who has written books on the subject of raising children well tells us that Isagenix makes this task easier with products such as IsaLean Shake, IsaKids Essentials, and IsaFruits. Henkart added that these can be mixed and matched also with Mars Venus products such as Mars Venus Super Cleanse and Mars Venus Shakes.

Kimes

After Henkart, Dr. Mark Kimes gave us a real in-depth look into how quality protein supports athletes. By sticking with quality, he means avoiding “junk” and sticking  with bonafide whey protein from New Zealand as found in IsaPro and IsaLean Shakes. This whey protein is “high in branched-chain amino acids” to fuel muscle growth and “cysteine,” an amino acid that bolsters levels of the body’s powerful antioxidant glutathione

Next up was Jim Rhoades, who brought the house down (no really, there were so many in the audience that people were sitting on the floor). Rhoades discussed our new product Ageless Actives and why its formulation of coQ10 is exceptional with clinical studies showing 800 percent greater absorption than dry powder versions. Rhoades told us, CoQ10 is what “gives mitochondria (batteries in the cell) a jump-start” for energy and for protecting against free radicals.

Rhoades

Lastly, Tony O’Donnell reminded us why it’s so important for all of us to receive the recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables daily — so many benefits, too many to name here. Despite these benefits, the majority of Americans get little or no fruits and vegetables daily. Luckily, with the help of Isagenix products IsaFruits and Greens!, this task can be achieved with greater ease.

That’s all for Saturday, but today (Sunday) there’s another round with fantastic information coming, so stay tuned.

Aged and vibrant mitochondria depend on levels of CoQ10.

Growing old is not so much about chronological age but a consequence of the biochemical processes that happen inside our bodies, the lifestyle choices we make, and how well we can protect our bodies from the toxic elements around us.

Scientists are only now beginning to understand this aging process. Aging is mainly influenced by forces within our bodies including a process called “cellular aging.” Cellular aging is the gradual course over time that leads progressively to the loss of our physiological reserves and functions.

Scientists also developed the free radical theory of aging, which is a theory that the origins of cellular aging are in part the result of the damaging effects of oxidative stress.

Oxidative stress—an imbalance of antioxidant defenses and free radicals—is a product of our environment but also a product of our own metabolism, which brings us to the mitochondrion.

Free Radical Theory of Aging and the Mitochondria

The mitochondrion is a sausage-shaped, double-membrane organelle appropriately nicknamed the cell’s “powerhouse” because of  its efficiency in converting food into a form of energy called ATP. The mitochondrion houses the cell’s capacity for “aerobic respiration,” which features the Krebs cycle and the electron transport chain.

The electron transport chain in the mitochondria is the most efficient as it extracts a total of 32 ATP (only 4 ATP are produced from the Kreb’s cycle and glycolysis). The more mitochondria in the cells the more energy produced to meet our cell’s  needs. The millions of mitochondria found within our cells in our tissues are what generate the majority of the energy that keeps our organs functioning at their prime: giving our brains the power for thought, and our muscles their power for performance and endurance.

As you’d expect from any efficient power plant, however, there are unwanted side effects. In the case of the mitochondria, the side effects are the generation of electrons, which leave the mitochondria to potentially produce free radicals (reactive oxygen species). Reactive oxygen species such as lipid peroxyl radicals attack all cellular components, especially those that are in close proximity to the mitochondria. These can include intracellular proteins, lipid membranes, mitochondrial DNA and cellular DNA.

The majority of oxidative stress on organelles, cells and bodily organs are bestowed upon them by their own mitochondria. It is part of the process of cellular aging and the mitochondria themselves are particularly susceptible to the damage. They are the body’s primary bioenergetic machinery, and require continuous recycling and regeneration throughout their lifespan.

Further, the effective control of mitochondrial biogenesis and turnover becomes important for maintaining energy levels, preventing endogenous oxidative stress and promoting healthy aging. As mitochondrial and cellular deterioration occur, so does a gradual progressive functional decline. The majority of theories suggest cellular deterioration slowly causes loss of organ function. In addition, the damage of oxidative stress from mitochondria can eventually lead to impaired mitochondrial and cellular DNA, allowing for possible mutations and impaired function of DNA replication.

As changes occur in the cells and the organs over time, old age accumulates, physical function diminishes, and the ability to respond to various stressors diminishes. This can be exacerbated by the onset of a progressive illness associated with aging.

CoQ10 Slows Cellular Aging

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) plays a key role in the mitochondria. As a member of the ubiquinone family, it’s a major fat-soluble antioxidant found in all cell membranes, especially within mitochondrial membranes. It’s one of the cell’s most potent scavengers of free radicals, neutralizing the lipid peroxyl radicals that damage cell membranes, proteins and DNA.

CoQ10 is also an acceptor of electrons for transfer along the electron transport chain; it plays a major role in the generation of ATP energy, and is instrumental in the proton gradient across the mitochondrial membrane that is required to form ATP energy.

Humans and animals synthesize CoQ10 to produce cellular energy and to protect cells from the danger of free radicals. However, humans’ ability to synthesize CoQ10 declines 20 percent every decade of life after the age of 21. The decline leads to deficiency, weakness and fatigue throughout the body. And it is estimated that the average intake of CoQ10 is 3-5 mg per day from normal diet (1) — amounts not nearly enough to return the body to youthful levels.

In addition, pharmaceuticals only worsen age-related low CoQ10 levels and lead to worsened health outcomes. There are 143 known pharmaceuticals that cause decreased serum levels of CoQ10 in patients. These include beta-blockers, antidepressants, antibiotics, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone replacement and, most notably, statin drugs.

Statin therapy, which is used to lower cholesterol for millions in the U.S. and Canada, works by blocking the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase in the liver, which regulates both cholesterol and coenzyme Q10 synthesis (1-3). Although the lower cholesterol levels may reduce risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease, the added effects are weakened organs such as the heart, muscle weakness, muscle pain, and fatigue from dangerously low CoQ10 levels.

As we age, CoQ10 supplementation is necessary to protect cells from oxidative damage. Lower CoQ10 levels in tissues and cells allows for uncontrolled leakage of electrons from mitochondria, causing damage to nearby lipids, proteins and DNA. Diminished CoQ10 levels also lead to declines in vitamin E, another potent fat-soluble antioxidant, because CoQ10 is the chiefly instrumental (along with selenium) for the regeneration of vitamin E.

As concentrations of CoQ10 and vitamin E diminish, the cell is more susceptible to free radicals (4;5). The concentration of mitochondria is also reduced, affecting cell, tissue and organ function. This is particularly pronounced in organs with normally high levels of CoQ10 such as the heart, brain, liver, and kidneys (4;5). Reduced amounts of CoQ10 also affect muscle energy and performance. The increase in susceptibility to free radicals—from endogenous and exogenous sources—also potentially affects intracellular proteins, lipids and DNA. Supplementation is vital for avoiding damage.

Long-term heart health ultimately requires CoQ10 supplementation. Because of the key role CoQ10 plays in supporting energy levels, maintaining proper levels of CoQ10 in the heart is essential for proper cardiac function. Because CoQ10 is a fat-soluble antioxidant that regenerates vitamin E, healthy levels are also necessary to guard against uncontrolled oxidation of lipoproteins and LDL cholesterol. Supplementation with CoQ10 in a dose-dependent manner supports cellular and mitochondrial integrity as well as an increase in the number of mitochondria in tissues.

The oral intake of CoQ10 can guard against the ill effects produced by age-related reduction of native CoQ10 in the heart, brain and muscle tissues. Supplementation supports health of the heart, kidneys, liver, and brain and helps reduce oxidation on lipids and lipoproteins—including reducing oxidation of LDL cholesterol—and helps keep the body young (6). In addition, CoQ10 supplementation is crucial when using statin drugs for heart health. Clinical dosages of CoQ10 present favorable protection against LDL oxidation and replenish CoQ10 as a vital component for organ function.

CoQ10’s functional support is clearly demonstrated in athletic performance. Studies in animals and humans demonstrate CoQ10’s effects on enhancing performance and guarding against fatigue.

In one randomized, double-blind, crossover study, scientists selected fifteen healthy, sedentary men to take oral CoQ10 or placebo in two 8-week periods and perform repeated bouts of supramaximal exercise. The study found those taking the CoQ10 experienced increased power and reduced fatigue in comparison to those taking placebo (7).

Additionally, a similar study on Finnish cross-country skiers found CoQ10 supplementation improved physical performance and recovery time (8). These studies support the use of the supplement as a valuable aid for performance enhancement.

Enhanced-Absorption Coenzyme Q10

One drawback of CoQ10 is its poor absorption, which has led scientists such as William Judy, Ph.D., to find ways to increase its absorption. He developed a form of CoQ10 for heart health by using a proprietary non-chemical process method that is performed on the coenzyme.

Unlike other CoQ10 products, this form of CoQ10 undergoes an all-natural method with no chemical solvents to enhance absorption, and is lipid stabilized to prevent re-crystallization.

A human clinical study measuring 36-hour peak absorption determined an 8-fold increase in absorption of Dr. Judy’s formula when compared to a dry powder version (most commonly found on the market) in which only 1 percent was absorbed.

The absorption led to a higher amount of CoQ10 in the blood plasma available for use by the body’s cells.

The patent-pending CoQ10 absorption formula is found in Isagenix Ageless Actives™. It’s a product that features 100 mg of CoQ10 and can be expected to restore healthy levels in the body.

Within a few weeks of using Ageless Actives™, people who take it find they notice increased energy levels and the dosage supports cardiovascular health, brain health, kidney health and liver health – apart from muscle and athletic performance.

Reference List

     1.    Wang X, Quinn PJ. Vitamin E and its function in membranes. Prog Lipid Res 1999;38:309-36.

     2.    Galli F, Iuliano L. Do statins cause myopathy by lowering vitamin E levels? Med Hypotheses 2010;74:707-9.

     3.    Gropper SS, Smith JL, Groff JL. Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism. Belmont, CA: Thomson Wadsworth, 2009.

     4.    Matthews RT, Yang L, Browne S, Baik M, Beal MF. Coenzyme Q10 administration increases brain mitochondrial concentrations and exerts neuroprotective effects. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 1998;95:8892-7.

     5.    Dhanasekaran M, Ren J. Curr Neurovasc Res 2005;2:447-59.

     6.    Schaars CF, Stalenhoef AF. Effects of ubiquinone (coenzyme Q10) on myopathy in statin users. Curr Opin Lipidol 2008;19:553-7.

     7.    Gokbel H, Gul I, Belviranl M, Okudan N. The effects of coenzyme Q10 supplementation on performance during repeated bouts of supramaximal exercise in sedentary men. J Strength Cond Res 2010;24:97-102.

     8.    Ylikoski T, Piirainen J, Hanninen O, Penttinen J. The effect of coenzyme Q10 on the exercise performance of cross-country skiers. Mol Aspects Med 1997;18 Suppl:S283-S290.

When choosing supplements, the focus should be on safety and quality.

A new article appearing in Consumer Reports magazine has compiled a list of a dozen ingredients commonly found in dietary supplements with “possible dangers” of side effects that include low blood pressure, heart-rhythm disorders, heart attacks, liver damage, kidney damage, cancer, or death.

As yet another confirmation of Isagenix’s commitment to the safety of its customers and the quality of its products, not one of the “dangerous ingredients” appearing in the report are found in any Isagenix products, nor does the company expect to use any of these ingredients in the future.

The company requires that the integrity of all Isagenix products is maintained through a “no compromise” safety and quality policy. All ingredients are thoroughly evaluated before they are used in Isagenix products.

Further, there are high-standard evaluation methods to determine the safety of each ingredient. All raw ingredient materials are evaluated thoroughly with rigorous tests to establish identity (a process called “fingerprinting”), purity, strength and composition before being approved for manufacture into Isagenix products. Every ingredient is tested for possible traces of heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial activity.

 The company also takes an “extra mile” step with a Finished Product Safety verification process from independent contract laboratories. Samples are tested regularly for consistency in meeting label claims and safety.

 Once again, Isagenix prides itself in being a company that stands apart in the marketplace by standing behind the safety and quality of each of its products. The end-result is a superior line of products that promote health and  bring real results for customer health.

Isagenix seeks to help customers easily avoid common food allergens.

At Isagenix we understand that people who are living with food allergies require accurate food labeling information for making informed choices up front about what Isagenix products they are able to enjoy. For this reason, the company has made a quick-reference table available as a resource to Isagenix customers for more than five years.

Now the company has expanded the table to include recently launched products as well as additional information about more common food allergens in existing Isagenix products.

The newly expanded document—which previously provided information only on the Food and Drug Administration’s recognized eight most common allergens: peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, milk, shellfish, fish, wheat (gluten) and soy*—now includes information on mollusks, honey, royal jelly, rice, celery, and other vegetables.

The Isagenix Allergen and Lifestyle Preferences Table also acts as an easy quick-reference for those who have vegetarian or lacto-vegetarian lifestyle preferences.

To view the complete table, please click on the following link: Isagenix Allergen & Lifestyle Preferences Table.

*Special note about soy-derived ingredients: Isagenix products that list soy as an allergen contain ingredients derived from soy such as highly purified vitamin E or lecithin. Isagenix does not include soy protein or soy isoflavones as ingredients in IsaLean Shake or in other Isagenix products.

Isagenix products must meet rigorous standards of safety and quality.

An article in the July issue of Consumer Reports magazine has raised concerns regarding traces of heavy metals in protein drinks, which has led to questions about the quality and safety of our IsaLean Shake products.

You can rest assured that Isagenix delivers on its promise to consumers to maintain a “no compromise” quality policy with a strong safety-monitoring program for all our products. Our safety-monitoring program includes microbial, pesticides, and heavy metals testing.

The Isagenix Quality Assurance Department requires testing for heavy metals including arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury in all raw materials before they are used in manufacturing.

If any raw material fails to meet specifications for heavy metals it is promptly rejected by our Quality Assurance Department. Besides initial inspection of raw materials, Isagenix takes an “extra mile” step with Finished Product Safety verification through independent contract laboratories. This verification process sets a high standard for ensuring the quality of our products and providing safety to consumers.

Isagenix specifications for heavy metals in finished products are adapted from Health Canada Natural Health Product Department “Evidence for Quality of Finished Natural Health Products.” The Health Canada guidelines are more stringent in nature than U.S. Pharmacopeia and World Health Organization provisional intakes of foods.

A review of our testing on multiple lots of IsaLean Shake flavors (Rich Chocolate, French Vanilla, Natural Creamy Chocolate, Natural Creamy Vanilla) all showed that the trace levels of heavy metals in these products are well below daily limits and meet Health Canada specifications. Additionally, our review shows that amounts are still below Health Canada limits per day when consumers enjoy two or three servings daily.*

Our process for continual inspection of raw materials and analysis of finished products is an expensive enterprise. Because of the high cost, similar standards are often avoided by other dietary supplement companies. At Isagenix we believe that meeting and exceeding safety guidelines is absolutely necessary as integrity and the health of our customers, friends, and family is paramount.

*Note: Because protein requirements may vary depending on health status, please consult a healthcare professional to determine individual protein needs. For more information about how our shakes can support muscle maintenance, weight management and athletic goals, please see “Are You Losing Muscle as You Age?” or “Three Steps for Optimum Sports Performance.” 

Dr. Judy developed the patent-pending CoQ10 with improved absorption technology.

Dr. William Judy, also known as the “godfather of CoQ10,” has studied the compound for more than 38 years at top research institutes in the nation. One of his greatest achievements was the development of a lipid-solubilized technology to improve the absorption of CoQ10 for restoring youthful energy to cells.

This is the same technology now found in Isagenix’s just-launched product Ageless Actives™, which boasts 100mg of CoQ10 per serving.

The patent-pending CoQ10 technology was compared to a dry powder CoQ10 (most commonly found form in many supplements) in a human clinical trial measuring 36-hour peak absorption to determine the total amount of CoQ10 absorbed and a 28-day steady state human study to determine the amount of CoQ10 in the blood plasma available for use by the body’s cells. The studies found that the patent-pending CoQ10 showed a 8-fold increase in absorption, which led to a 12-fold increase in bioavailability, when compared to dry powder where only 1 percent was absorbed.

The clinically effective dose in Ageless Actives can help restore healthy levels of CoQ10 in the body, thus rapidly reversing the effects of age-related declines in CoQ10 synthesis, as well as declines produced by pharmaceutical drugs such as statins.

Within a few weeks of use of Ageless Actives, customers are likely to notice increased energy levels. The dosage supports health claims for cardiovascular health, brain health, kidney health and liver health as well as support for muscle and athletic performance. Ageless Actives can be taken with all other Isagenix products.

Quotes from Dr. Judy

Awhile back, Isagenix sought out Dr. Judy’s patent-pending technolgy and asked him to present his findings to our Scientific Advisory Board. The researcher gave a great presentation and we jotted down some “highlight quotes” from the call to share with you here.  

Isagenix: Would you tell us about CoQ10?

Dr. Judy: CoQ10 is the only lipophilic (fat-soluble) antioxidant made in the body, found in all cell membranes, protects against lipid peroxidation and destruction from free radicals. CoQ10 is found in humans, CoQ9 found in plants, except for spinach and broccoli, which contain CoQ10—Popeye was right about eating spinach. CoQ10 is more powerful as an antioxidant than vitamins C, and E and it recycles vitamin C and E. It helps the body create energy to live, establishes resting membrane characteristics for cells to live and, as a major lipophilic antioxidant, has much to do with aging.

Isagenix: Why take CoQ10 as we age?

Dr. Judy: CoQ10 diminishes as we age, peaks in your early 20s, and by age 60 most of us make 50 percent lower than what we need. Those with high CoQ10 have better heart health; they are very healthy, do not get sick and often have longer lifespans than others. Those who have been supplementing with CoQ10 for several years that are now 90 look like they’re 70.

Isagenix: What is the connection to prescription drugs?

Dr. Judy: Statin drugs [and other prescription drugs] interfere with CoQ10 and cholesterol synthesis (inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase). There is a tremendous need for CoQ10 because more than 60 million people take statin drugs, which can lead to low energy levels and myopathy.

Isagenix: Is taking CoQ10 in these high amounts safe for humans?

Dr. Judy: There’s no known toxicity for CoQ10. CoQ10 has been studied in Japan for more than 40 years. There are more than 8,600 publications on CoQ10, and it is the most researched natural product in the world. CoQ10 will stimulate muscle to produce energy in mitochondria. It gives body total nutritional compliment to repair itself. It may even possibly be the key to longevity because it is the only one that lives in all cell lipid membranes in the body.

Isagenix: Why focus on high-absorption CoQ1o?

Dr. Judy: CoQ10 supplements are not highly absorbed, but in a tri-lipid base it is very stable. In our clinical trials the CoQ10 in this supplement is 800 percent more absorbable than dry powder forms that are commonly used on the market today.

All-natural quality IsaPro whey comes from dairy cows raised on pastures of New Zealand.

Whether you’re an athlete, bodybuilder or weekend warrior, you know that getting enough protein in your diet is vital to provide the amino acid “building blocks” that must be available to fuel growth of muscle and make the most of those long hours of training. Yes, you can maximize muscle gains with the right kind of protein.

Numerous studies have shown that whey protein  is superior to other protein sources because it’s more easily absorbed and contains higher levels of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) to drive muscle protein anabolism—the lean muscle growth you want.

What’s the whey protein source to help you maximize lean muscle growth? It’s the kind found in our Isagenix® IsaLean® Shake and what also makes up our newly-enhanced Isagenix IsaPro unflavored whey protein with Ionic Alfalfa™. Here are the reasons why our natural whey can help you build your muscle mass and help you burn fat.

Reason #1: IsaPro Delivers on Quality

 Don’t drink another shake that contains “junk” whey protein! When you add IsaPro, you can feel confident about getting results from your workouts.

 We thoroughly inspect raw materials, testing their potency, so that we can be sure they satisfy our customers’ needs. As we do, we make sure our whey continually offers its naturally superior amino acid profile and its content of BCAAs that spur muscle growth to the max.

Reason #2: IsaPro is All-Natural

We know that quality whey can only come from a quality source, which is why our exclusive whey comes from dairy cows that are raised on pastures (not grain) on small New Zealand family farms, milked according to season, well rested, and not treated with hormones or antibiotics.

The dairy whey in IsaLean Shake and IsaPro is produced by thinking first about what’s best for the dairy cow’s nutrition and what’s good for the pristine New Zealand environment. At Isagenix, we don’t think there should be any other whey.

Reason #3: IsaPro is Backed by Science

Whether you want to fuel muscle growth or natural detox, or just get an extra protein boost in your IsaLean Shake for metabolism and weight loss, IsaPro provides the right balance of amino acids for your body’s needs.

Studies have found that those who add protein high in BCAAs to your diet, coupled with exercise, have more lean muscle tissue and lose more body fat. IsaPro unflavored whey protein provides the high count of BCAAs that trigger protein muscle anabolism, especially when taken within 20 minutes after workouts. (See previous post on “Building Muscle with Whey and Casein“.)

Whey protein also helps enhance the body’s immune system by raising glutathione levels. Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant with the ability to help the immune system and support cell integrity. The whey in our IsaLean Shake and in our IsaPro unflavored whey protein has a rich cysteine content to support glutathione synthesis for liver and detox support.

Whey protein studies also show that it helps manage weight by promoting a feeling of fullness. And, as you build lean tissue, your metabolic rate increases and you naturally burn more calories each day. In short, whey is the key to building muscle and busting fat in the long-term.

Reason #4: IsaPro Technology

Not all whey proteins are created equal. Fresh, whole milk is guided through a low-heat series of fine filters, which separate our whey from other dairy components such as fats and lactose. The ultra-filtration process yields the cleanest whey protein concentrate available for easy digestibility.

Also, due to these gentle, low-heat methods, the whey protein is protected from breaking down and  maintains its natural, high-quality, undenatured state.

Reason #5: IsaPro Contains Ionic Alfalfa

Lastly, IsaPro now contains Isagenix’s exclusive, proprietary Ionic Alfalfa. The ingredient is a special alfalfa juice concentrate rich in trace minerals coming from an ancient plant deposit.

Ionic Alfalfa provides extra support for general metabolism and supporting your body’s overall health naturally.

IsaPro Frequently Asked Questions

By now, we know you’ll have questions about IsaPro and how to get the best muscle-building and weight loss results. Here are a few of the most frequently asked questions about IsaPro.

IsaPro delivers high-quality amino acid profile to fuel muscle growth.

Q. I noticed my new IsaPro has changed. What are the differences with the new, upgraded version of IsaPro?

A. The just-upgraded version of IsaPro is made up of the same outstanding whey protein that is currently featured in our previously launched natural creamy IsaLean Shakes. IsaPro now also contains Ionic Alfalfa for best support of health and general wellbeing.

You will also notice that the new product is “fluffier” in appearance. It comes in a larger canister with a slightly larger scoop to compensate for the change in density. Please be advised that, despite the change in appearance, the directions for use and protein content per serving remains the same.

Q. How do I use Isagenix IsaPro?  

A. You can add 1½ scoops of IsaPro to one scoop of your IsaLean Shake—any flavor—and 8 ounces of purified water. The total protein content would be 35 grams. For optimum taste, blend with ice (preferably with an IsaBlender™).

Q. Who can benefit from using IsaPro?

A. We recommend IsaPro to almost anyone looking for a boost of protein, however, it is best used by athletes, weekend warriors and growing teenagers. If you’re having trouble overcoming a weight-loss plateau, then you can also use it to help boost metabolism and curb cravings.

Q. Can people who are required to be on low-sugar diets by their doctors use IsaPro?

A. Yes. Because IsaPro contains no added sugar,  those with type 2 diabetes or who are otherwise required to be on a low-sugar diet are able to use it to dilute the sugar intake from their IsaLean Shakes, or use it as a separate item. As always, however, we recommend people with diabetes only use products or change their diet under the care of a physician.

For more information on IsaPro, see video with Dr. Mark Kimes by clicking here.