How to Choose the Right Supplement?

"Why should LifePak be my core nutritional supplement? Why is LifePak so good?"

It has been agreed that supplements are important in providing the minerals and vitamins that may be missing in our daily diets. Independent studies have indicated that 55% of our population take at least one nutritional dietary supplement in one form or another. The most common is vitamin E and C. Many of us have seen friends or relatives spending an exorbitant amount of money on a multitude of supplements consumed in handfuls as wonder remedies. Unfortunately these handfuls of supplements are more often than not unbalanced and consequently are useless. So, how do I choose the right supplement? What should I look for? Nu Skin recommends a supplement based on the following criteria:

1. Uses exclusively natural vitamin E (d-alpha-tocopherol).
2. Completeness: Provides at least 50% of the most recently established nutrient intake recommendations of the NHMRC
3. Uses Optimum Amounts of Antioxidant Nutrients
4. Uses optimum amounts of B-vitamins involved in homocysteine metabolism
5. Uses optimum amounts of bone nutrients
6. Provides at least 6 mg carotenoids from at least 3 out of the 5 most important sources
7. Provides at least 20 mg of dietary flavonoids
8. Uses well-absorbable, bioavailable sources of trace minerals
9. Free of potentially unsafe amounts of vitamins and minerals
10. Free of artificial fillers, binders, colours and preservatives.

So, Why LifePak?
Who should take this product and why?
What sets this product apart from the rest on the market?

1. Uses exclusively natural vitamin E (d-alpha-tocopherol) because of its documented higher bioavailability over the synthetic form (dl-alpha-tocopherol):

Scientists have long known that natural vitamin E (d-alpha- tocopherol) is more biologically active than the synthetic manufactured kind. The existing conversion equations from mg to IU take into account the change in activity. 1mg synthetic vitamin E is equal to 1IU. While it only takes 0.67mg to 0.74mg natural vitamin E to equal 1IU. The synthetic and natural vitamin E have the same molecular formula, but they differ in their 3 dimensional structure. Therefore the natural is chemically and biologically proven different from the synthetic. The chemical structure is very well-known and documented and now two recently published studies support the idea that natural vitamin E is biologically superior.

The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, April 1998, published a study that tested participants' blood and found natural vitamin E was retained twice as well as synthetic at varying dosages. The same journal in March 1998 published a study of 15 pregnant women, which found natural vitamin E was absorbed more than synthetic. From these studies, it appears you will need to ingest about 1/3 to 1/2 more of synthetic vitamin E than what you would take of the natural form. Natural vitamin E is superior. There have also been positive earlier studies conducted in 1992 as to the bioavailability of d-alpha-tocopherol acetate in humans. The natural water dispersible succinate form also appears to have additional health benefits in protecting cells from environmental toxins and free radical damage. LifePak uses only natural vitamin E.

2. Completeness: Provides at least 50% of the most recently established nutrient intake recommendations of the NHMRC for adult men and women of all essential vitamins and minerals except electrolytes, phosphorus, fluoride and iron:

Provides all essential nutrients in amounts sufficient to efficiently address common nutrient deficiencies and sub-optimal intakes. Nutrient deficiencies have caused diseases worldwide since the beginning of time. For example, scurvy. Scurvy is a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency. Ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans describe a disease that probably was scurvy. The well-known story of the British sailors eating limes on long trips is historical evidence of scurvy being cured by vitamin C.

The NHMRC (National Health and Medical Research Council) has established the RDI's (Recommended Daily Intakes). The RDI's are intended to prevent nutrient deficiency. Currently RDI's are set for 13 vitamins (A, C, D, E, K, B1, B2, niacin, B6, folate, B12 and B5) and minerals (Calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorous, iodine, zinc, copper, manganese, chromium, selenium and potassium). It is also important to take into account the unique relationship between vitamins, minerals & phytonutrients. Sometimes individual elements can aid one another to serve their purposes apart from providing their own functions. For instance, anthocyanins & bioflavonoids can enhance vitamin C's effect. Nevertheless, certain elements may affect our absorption rate of other elements. For example, zinc can reduce the effect of copper by affecting our absorption rate. When formulating LifePak®, we took all these into account and performed the most careful planning. We ensured full and optimum effect of every ingredient.

Many brands only use one or two complex ingredients, which are inadequate for fulfilling the body's multiple requirements. Neither does it afford the synergetic effect between nutrients. LifePak uses a complex formula that incorporates vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. Meeting stringent requirements, the quality of selective ingredients is way above generally accepted standards. That is the only way to provide you with the best choice for achieving full-range health care action. LifePak is based on the RDI's and current research.

3. Uses Optimum Amounts of Antioxidant Nutrients: 100-400 IU vitamin E, 200-500 mg vitamin C, 5000-10,000 IU betacarotene and 52 mcg selenium.

Antioxidants are compounds that stabilise free radical reactions and are divided into two categories known as free radical scavengers and free radical quenchers. A scavenger such as vitamin E donates a hydrogen atom to a free radical to satisfy the unpaired electron. A quencher, such as betacarotene, absorbs energy from an electron to stabilise the free radical to a normal state.

The reason behind the recommend combination of nutrients is based on their interactions. Studies such as Seddon in 1994 into Dietary carotenoids, vitamin A, C, E and advanced age related macular degeneration have indicated their interrelationships. Vitamin C specifically has significant interrelationships with other nutrients. Such as protecting other nutrients present in the diet as indicated by Bendich in 1995 in the study of the health benefits of vitamin C supplementation. It is important to say that not one antioxidant is better of another. The benefit is of them working together.

4. Uses optimum amounts of B-vitamins involved in homocysteine metabolism: At least 200 mcg folic acid, 1.5 mg vitamin B6 and 2-4 mcg vitamin B12.

Several studies have shown that diets lacking in several B-vitamins lead to high levels of homocysteine, which can be linked to an increased risk of some lifestyle diseases. Homocysteine is not a normal dietary component. It is formed in the body when the methyl group (CH3) is removed from the amino acid methionine. The methyl group is removed and donated for over 100 vital biological reactions. The donation of the methionine to form homocysteine is a very normal process in the body. It requires folate, vitamin B6 and B12.

Studies such as that by Ubbink in 1994 have shown that individuals that are deficient in these three B-vitamins have a high level of homocysteine. The theory is that once the high level of homocysteine circulating throughout the blood aggregates or combines with LDL (low-density lipoproteins) to form plaque in the artery walls. In the Journal of the American Medical Association, Feb 4 1998, a study was published on the correlation between homocysteine levels and B-vitamins. As part of the ongoing Nurses Health Study, Harvard researchers followed more than 80, 000 middle aged female nurses for 14 years. Those who took the most folic (greater than 400 mcg per day) and the most B6 (greater than 3 mg per day) from either food or supplements suffered about half the number of health and nutrition related deaths compared to those who had consumed less than these quantities. LifePak contains 500 mcg folate, 10 mg B6 and 30 mcg B12.

5. Uses optimum amounts of bone nutrients: 500-1500 mg Calcium, 210-700 mg magnesium, 200-800 IU vitamin D, and at least 40 mcg vitamin K.

Most multinutrient formulas fail to deliver significant amounts of calcium and magnesium and fail to take into account their interrelationship. The recommendation of calcium: magnesium in a 2:1 ratio reflects the approximate ratio of the RDI's for the two nutrients. Between all of the bone nutrients there is a close interrelationship in that if one is not present or is present in too high or low a value then each other nutrients usefulness is decreased. By this we mean that for calcium to function properly it must be accompanied not only by magnesium but also vitamins A, C, D and K. Optimum amounts of the bone nutrients are provided in LifePak in a balanced formula. LifePak provides 520 mg calcium, 250 mg magnesium, 400 IU vitamin D and 40 mcg vitamin K.

6. Provides at least 6 mg carotenoids from at least 3 out of the 5 most important sources: betacarotene, alphacarotene, lutein, lycopene, and cryptoxanthin. The amounts must be specified.

Phytonutrients are chemical compounds with nutritional importance from plant sources. Many possess protective qualities unique to the plants they are derived from. Out of these proanthocyanins and grape seed extract are more readily absorbed than other phytonutrients. Phytonutrients all have different roles. Bioflavonoids are companions to vitamin C. They acts as antioxidants for vitamin C, protecting it from being oxidised by copper containing enzymes. LifePak includes these compounds as part of a rich array of phytonutrients as they are powerful antioxidants. LifePak also provides these significant amounts of phytonutrients from multiple sources such as lutein, lycopene and flavonoids. In 1995, Khachik researched the relationship of lutein and lycopene and their oxidative metabolites in the prevention of lifestyle diseases.

7. Provides at least 20 mg of dietary flavonoids from at least 3 different well-characterised sources, such as catechins, citrus bioflavonoids, isoflavones, and grape seed extract.

The flavonoids are a very large class of plant-produced chemicals that are responsible, among other things, for many colours of flowers and fruits. There are over 4000 flavonoids (polyphenols) occurring in nature. Many of them are potent antioxidant phytonutrients and are plant-derived foods, spices and many have been identified as the active principle of medicinal herbs. Flavonoids have a variety of physiological effects, including antioxidant properties and anti-inflammatory effects. Some examples are: citrus fruits (bioflavonoids, hesperidin, naringin), onions (quercetin), red grapes and red wine (anthocyanosides), grape seeds (proanthocyanins), soy foods (isoflavones) and green tea (catechins).

Green tea provides therapeutic benefits through catechins, which are polyphenols with a flavonoid structure. Recent studies have demonstrated that the polyphenols in green tea, particularly the catechin component, offer potent antioxidant activity through the scavenging of free radicals.

8. Uses well-absorbable, bioavailable sources of trace minerals zinc, iron, copper and chromium (if present), such as organic acid salts and amino chelates.

Chelated minerals are protected from binding to substances, which lower their use, by your body. Instead the amino acid pathway absorbs them. The chelation of the minerals is by means of covalent bonding (or double bonding) which prevents the nutrient being broken down in the stomach [which would result in its loss] or bonding to fibres and other food substances such as phytates and oxalic acid. Non-covalent bonded minerals can come apart in water or digestion. Chelated minerals are absorbed in the small intestine. Glysine and lysine (amino acids) are commonly used. Chelated minerals have been suggested to be 60-80% better absorbed than calcium salts and 60% better than the calcium in milk. Calcium carbonate is the naturally occurring form of calcium intestinal absorption, and usability by the body of calcium has been demonstrated to be significant, especially when the supplement is taken with food. LifePak incorporates quality sources of minerals.

Bibliography:

• Fine, 1991, Intestinal absorption of magnesium from food and supplements.
• Abdulla, Samman, 1989, Biol Trace Elem Res, Dietary intake and bioavailability of trace elements.

9. Free of potentially unsafe amounts of vitamins and minerals according to the most recently published NOAEL established by the CRN.

Studies have shown that more is not necessarily better. For example:

1. High doses of vitamin E can deplete vitamin A stores.
2. Large amounts of calcium can adversely effect manganese, iron and zinc absorption.
3. Large amounts of calcium may cause constipation.
4. The balance of calcium, phosphorous and iron is very important as excess phosphorous hinders absorption.
5. Excessive amounts of zinc may result in copper and iron being lost from the liver.

LifePak is free of excessive amounts of nutrients that may have adverse effects. It goes without saying that Pharmanex's LifePak is free of artificial fillers, binders, colours and preservatives. This conforms to Pharmanex's corporate philosophy of "Provided by Nature, Proven by Science", and "The Best of Science and Nature". LifePak is the foremost product on the market. Competitive products exist in the nutritional supplement market. Some products may share similar, if not identical ingredient lists. This feature alone is not a complete reflection of the quality or function of the product, which are not part of the ingredient listing, include the relative amounts of ingredients, the quality of ingredients, and the methods used to process and manufacture products. Other brands may cost less as a result of the low body assimilation of their nutrients and their use of less effective nutrients. Pharmanex believes that the best system of taking nutrients is to enhance what nature has already done. By providing a combination of beneficial nutrients. LifePak is based on scientific principles and is to be used to fortify your diet. LifePak takes care of everything for you. You can get everything you need in the synergistic balance your body requires.

10. Free of artificial fillers, binders, colours and preservatives.

LifePak does contain fillers in order to keep the tablet together or the capsule contents apart. Many natural fillers, binders, colours, and preservatives are available. Maltodextrin can be used as a natural filler and betacarotene can be a natural colour. Nature provides us with many functional excipients. There is no need to use a synthetic source in this area. Synthetic excipients are not known to be specifically harmful, but it is a lifestyle choice to opt for natural. LifePak provides the best of science and nature. We find no reason to change the nature part in this area.

So, Why LifePak and What is LifePak?

LifePak is an optimal dietary supplement and is the foremost product on the market. It is the 'core' of the Pharmanex supplementation range.

LifePak is a vitamin and mineral supplement for the prevention and treatment of dietary deficiencies, and to help general well being. LifePak is a nutritionally balanced combination of five important dietary components from the highest quality sources: phytonutrients, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. It supplies a synergistic balance of essential vitamins and trace elements important in maintaining normal health, an array of phytonutrients that are powerful antioxidants from other sources that neutralise free radical activity. Free radicals are highly reactive substances, which may occur in the body. A progressive and complete formula providing high quality ingredients in an optimal balance.

Who should take this product and why?

Those members of the general population who have decided that they want to add high quality dietary supplements to their diet. With the combination of Pharmanex's nutritional supplements and the uptake of a healthy lifestyle, you can achieve dynamic health.

LifePak is the nest of premium supplementation. Wouldn't you want to use the best? It is the forefront of nutritional science, reflected in products that are innovative and of the highest possible quality. When used with proper nutrition and exercise, LifePak can help you change your health for good.

LifePak should be used if you want to add high quality dietary supplements to your diet.

What sets this product apart from the rest on the market?

1. LifePak consists of 5 comprehensive formulas in one convenient packet, all working in synergy.

2. Why take vitamins twice a day?

Excess fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the body for future use. If the body has need for one of these nutrients, it can release the vitamins from storage. Unlike fat-soluble vitamins, most water-soluble vitamins are easily excreted from the body. If these vitamins are not needed within a few hours they will be excreted from the body. By dividing larger doses of water-soluble vitamins in two you can provide the body with a more sustained nutrient delivery throughout the day. For this reason, Pharmanex recommends taking LifePak with your morning and evening meals, which will give you 24-hour protection.

3. Why are other supplements less expensive?

Quality Ingredients
Ingredients incorporated into Pharmanex products are found to be the most bioavailable by science. Pharmanex does not forfeit the benefit of a bioavailable ingredient because it is too expensive. If it is the best ingredient found on the market by scientific definition, Pharmanex utilises it regardless of expense.

Quality Formulations
The amounts of each specific vitamin, mineral, phytonutrient, or other nutrient, are found in quantities, which will work synergistically with all other nutrients in the product. The nutrients work hand-in-hand with one another without counteracting each other. Pharmanex provides the expertise knowledge for every category of health to ensure these synergistic formulations.

Quality Control
Research on ingredients and formulations can only be useful if the manufacturers maintain strict production policies. The manufacturers Pharmanex utilise adhere strictly to the Good Manufacturing Procedures (GMP) set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This ensures products that are of the highest standard. Ingredients are found in their elemental value and the products are free of chemical residue or microbial growth.

LifePak ensures quality control, quality ingredients, and quality formulation. Our ingredients are carefully selected for maximum nutritional value, safety and tolerance with the Pharmanex 6S Process.

Pharmanex uses proprietary technology in its manufacturing process to maintain tight quality controls over all stages of product development. The key to consistent quality is the Pharmanex 6S Quality Process, the basis of the company's pharmaceutical-like approach to product development. By applying the process, Pharmanex has consistently met or exceeded standards that are acceptable to the industry. The 6S Quality Process, which includes the elements of selection, sourcing, structure, standardisation, safety, and substantiation, has enabled Pharmanex to become an industry leader in quality and efficacy.

Our products are produced by state of the art manufacturing facilities that adhere to strict GMP and comply with FDA and TGA guidelines. They meet the TGA standards for disintegration and dissolution.

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