Oxidative Stress and the Holy Grail to Fight It



Recently I have been doing some research on a supplement called Protandim. Protandim combats oxidative stress through Nrf2 activation. I know that first hand this seems like another language so allow me to break it down for you.

First I will explain what oxidative stress is. Oxidative stress is inevitable for everyone. It is generated through the process of living life (eating, sleeping, breathing, exercising). Your body constantly reacts with oxygen as you breathe and your cells produce energy. As a result highly reactive molecules are produced within our cells known as free radicles and oxidative stress occurs. When our protein controlled antioxidant response doesn't keep up, oxidative stress causes oxidative damage. Moral of the story, oxidative stress is thought to be involved in the development of cancer, aging, heart failure, Alzheimer's, sickle cell syndrome, autism and a handful of other things.

Nrf2 has been referred to as "a guardian of health span and gatekeeper of species longevity". The transcription factor Nrf2 is constitutively expressed in all tissue but more so in some organs than others. It is most abundant in the liver and kidney. Nrf2 protects the tissues against oxidative stress and inflammation.

Now back to Protandim and how both of these topics combine to be relative to it. As I said earlier, Protandim combats oxidative stress and it does so by activating the Nrf2 in the cells in the body and communicates to them to do what they're already designed to do: up-regulate "survival genes", genes that enable cells to survive in the face of stress from free radicles and other oxidants and down regulate other genes to help the body function at an optimal level.

Protandim is made up of five potent botanicals:

 

Ashwagandha (root)- Traditionally, this herb was used as a tonic to raise energy levels and improve general health and longevity. It has generated interest in the study of its antistress and antioxidant properties.



Turmeric- Used for flatulence, jaundice, menstrual difficulties, hemorrhage and colic.

 

Green Tea extract- This much studied extract, produced from Camellia Sinensis leaves in China, is used as a source of antioxidants for the preservation of good health. It is also used as an aid to weight management.

 

Milk Thistle extract- Has been used for hundreds of years as a liver protectant and to support liver function and relieve digestive disturbances. It has physiological effect and therapeutic properties.

 

Bacopa extract- Research focuses on this plants effects on memory, learning and concentration.

I have been taking this supplement as of recently and I can honestly say I feel more mental focus and clarity in my skin. I definitely notice the detoxifying properties of this supplement. Final consensus: I recommend! I have been taken the Protandim by LifeVantage. They even have a supplement for dogs too with all these great ingredients! It's called Canine Health, also by LifeVantage.

If you are interested in trying out Protandim go to http://www.mylifevantage.com/laverewilson and follow the prompts to make an order!