AOR - Immune Mood Sleep Guide

Supporting Your Immune System, Mood Balance and Sleep Patterns with Natural Health Products Written by Traj Nibber, PhD and Anjan Nibber, DPhil Reviewed by Nirat Nibber, ND

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

Introduction

Immune Support

At AOR, we are committed to helping our customers by producing novel and scientifically proven products for a range of health needs. We want to ensure that everyone is making the right decisions for their health needs and goals. Over the last few years, we have all experienced changes to our daily routines. Changes in our schedules and workload, coupled with health concerns and economic uncertainty, can contribute to rising levels of stress, which in turn can take a toll on our immune system. Now more than ever it is important to ensure that we are looking after our health. This not only includes our physical health, but also our mental health.

Our team at AOR is determined to help in any way we can. We have put together this booklet to provide a brief overview of some of AOR’s products that you may want to consider to support your overall health. For more information, please visit aor.ca, which provides more detailed supplement facts and research. On behalf of the whole team at AOR, we hope you find this booklet useful and that you all keep healthy and positive.

Zinc-Copper Balance®

Vitamin C

Vitamin D3

Probiotic-3

AHCC® 9 Mood and Sleep Support 5-HTP 11 Glycine 12 Saffron 13 Ortho Sleep® 14

Disclaimer: The information in this document is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the Natural and Non-prescription Health Product Directorate of Canada (NNHPD) or the FDA. The information and products mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, mitigate or prevent any medical condition. Please refer to label for safety data, cautions and interactions. Always consult your qualified health care provider if you have any health concerns.

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ZINC-COPPER BALANCE ®

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS

Zinc (citrate, succinate) | Copper (Citrate)

WHAT IS ZINC-COPPER BALANCE ® ?

Zinc and copper are essential minerals, critical to immune function and connective tissue formation. They also help our body metabolize carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Unfortunately, zinc supplementation is known to cause copper deficiency. As such, we designed Zinc-Copper Balance® to provide a balanced ratio of zinc to copper, to ensure optimal levels of these two important minerals are absorbed.

HOW DOES ZINC-COPPER BALANCE ® HELP WITH OUR IMMUNE SYSTEM?

Zinc and copper have been extensively studied in a range of conditions, ranging from skin conditions (e.g. dermatitis) to lower respiratory infections (e.g. pneumonia). Zinc has been shown to be essential for the function of white blood cells, which help protect the body from bacterial and virus invasion. As such, its not surprising that zinc supplementation can reduce the symptoms caused by viral infection. A number of trials in humans have shown that zinc supplementation is associated with a decrease in deaths due to severe pneumonia (a lower respiratory infection). Zinc has been shown to reduce the duration and severity of diarrheal episodes due to viral infections. Furthermore, researchers that shown that zinc deficiency results in dysregulation of IL-6, a molecule involved in inflammation. A recent study showed that Zinc was deficient in people with rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune inflammatory condition. Zinc-Copper Balance® should be considered to help boost the immune system and fight against infection and autoimmune conditions.

We know that our immune health is crucial to our general wellbeing. The immune system is your body’s natural defense system. It works by recognising the difference between your body’s cells and foreign cells, allowing it to destroy any that could be potentially harmful.

Changes in our schedules, changes in seasons and other outside factors can influence how well our immune system functions. Here we share a few products that you may want to consider to help support a healthy immune system.

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VITAMIN D3 Available in liquid and capsule form

VITAMIN C

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS

Vitamin C

Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol*) *Source: lichen

WHAT IS VITAMIN C?

WHAT IS VITAMIN D3?

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an essential nutrient required for several important functions in the body such as: protecting cells and keeping them healthy, and maintaining healthy blood vessels, bones, and skin. Vitamin C also has an important role in wound healing. Vitamin C cannot be made or stored in the body, so we need to get it through other sources, such as our diet and supplements.

Vitamin D3, is an essential nutrient that helps keep our immune system, bones, teeth, muscles and nervous system healthy. Vitamin D3 regulates the amount of calcium and phosphate in our body. The body creates vitamin D3 from direct sunlight. However, between the months of October and March, we do not get enough vitamin D3 from sunlight. Furthermore, many people in the living in Northern latitudes do not receive adequate sunlight even during the spring and summer months. Vitamin D3 is available in a small number of foods, but to ensure we receive adequate levels of vitamin D3, it is important to take supplements.

HOW DOES VITAMIN C HELP WITH OUR IMMUNE SYSTEM?

A number of studies have shown that vitamin C has potent anti-oxidant, and immune properties. For this reason, vitamin C is one of the best studied natural products. Vitamin C has been shown to increase the proliferation of T-lymphocytes, immune cells which are important in the destruction of cells which have been infected by bacteria and viruses. One large clinical study showed that large doses of vitamin C can reduce the frequency of the common cold when compared to people not taking vitamin C (placebo group). In another study, large doses of vitamin C administered after the development of a cold resulted in a relief of symptoms, such as nasal congestion and discharge. Because of its anti-oxidant properties, Vitamin C is also important in cardiovascular health, through improved blood flow. While it is normal to be concerned about infections, it’s important to ensure that we are not ignoring our other health needs. Vitamin C is a foundational vitamin with a multitude of health benefits!

HOW DOES VITAMIN D3 HELP WITH OUR IMMUNE SYSTEM?

Deficiencies in vitamin D3 are associated with a number of bone diseases such as rickets in children, and osteomalacia in adults. In more recent years, we have identified vitamin D3 to be important in the body’s immune response. We know that people who are deficient in Vitamin D3 are more likely to get respiratory infections such as those causing the common cold. A recent study also showed that vitamin D3 supplementation is well tolerated and protects against respiratory infections overall, including in those people with underlying respiratory conditions (e.g. COPD). Vitamin D deficiency seems to be common among North Americans. As such, its important to consider taking Vitamin D3 to keep our immune system, bones, and muscles healthy.

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PROBIOTIC-3

AHCC ®

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS

Enterococcus faecium T-110 | Clostridium butyricum TO-A | Bacillus subtilis TO-A

AHCC® Proprietary Blend Shiitake mycelium extract

WHAT IS PROBIOTIC-3?

WHAT IS AHCC®?

Probiotics comprise a single or a combination formulation of live bacteria, which are normal commensals (good bacteria) of the gastrointestinal tract. Probiotic-3, is a revolutionary formula to support immune health, gut health, and vaginal health. The formulation contains three unique strains of bacteria, Enterococcus faecium T-110, Clostridium butyricum TO-A, and Bacillus subtilis TO-A, which have each been clinically shown to be effective. The strains have a symbiotic relationship, which increases the effectiveness of the product. Whilst this combination is new to the North American market, it is widely used in hospitals and pharmacies throughout Asia for over 55 years!

Active Hexose Correlated Compound (AHCC®) is a natural compound extracted from shiitake mushrooms. It was developed in Japan in 1989, and has since been used to improve the immunity of over 100,000 patients, and has been studied in over 50 human clinical trials. AHCC® has the unique ability to stimulate the immune system, which is important in controlling inflammation and infection and regulating healthy cell growth.

HOW DOES AHCC® HELP WITH OUR IMMUNE SYSTEM?

The effectiveness of AHCC® has been investigated in many different viral infections including influenza virus (common cold), West Nile virus, hepatitis virus and human papillomavirus. AHCC® has been shown to help protect against infections through the stimulation of T-cells and Natural Killer cells, which are immune cells that destroy cells that have been infected by viruses and bacteria. B cells and antibody production have also been shown to be activated by AHCC®. Interestingly, AHCC® supplementation has been shown to improve the immune response to vaccinations, which is very applicable to the aging population that sometime has a difficult time mounting an adequate immune response to vaccines. In a study examining the effects of AHCC® on the body’s response to influenza infection, it was found that individuals taking AHCC® had significantly higher levels of immune cells, suggesting an improved immune response. If you are looking for one of the most powerful ways to boost you immune system, look no further then AHCC®. AHCC® is a unique antioxidant and immune system modulator. AOR’s AHCC® contains one of the highest doses found on the market with the fewest additional ingredients. The active ingredients of AHCC® include acetylated alpha-glucan for optimal bioavailability.

HOW DOES PROBIOTIC-3 HELP WITH OUR IMMUNE SYSTEM?

We know that gut microbiota play an important role in stimulating the immune system to help protect against pathogens. Probiotic-3 has been shown to successfully reduce diarrhea duration following gastroenteritis (viral infection of the gut). Beyond gastrointestinal health, studies have shown that Probiotic-3 may have more widespread immune health benefits through its immunomodulatory effects – increasing immune cells (T-helper 1 cells), which help fight off infection, and also down regulating proinflammatory molecules (cytokines such as IL-10).

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5-HTP

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS

L-5-hydroxytryptophan (griffonia seed extract)

WHAT IS 5-HTP?

5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is a precursor to the chemical (neurotransmitter) serotonin. Serotonin acts on the brain and is important in mood stabilization and is also involved in generating feelings of happiness and general wellbeing. Unfortunately, serotonin when taken as a supplement cannot penetrate a barrier around the brain (called the blood brain barrier). This means that we cannot derive the benefits of serotonin when taken as a supplement. However, the precursor 5-HTP, is well absorbed orally and can penetrate the blood brain barrier. Once in the brain, 5-HTP can be converted into serotonin. 5-HTP is derived from the seed of Griffionia simplicifolia, which is a small shrub that grows off the Ivory Coast and Ghana and is processed in France. We ensure that our preparation of 5-HTP is devoid of any “peak x” (toxic) contaminants, which can be found in other 5-HTP products on the market.

HOW DOES 5-HTP HELP WITH MOOD?

There are many who have been affected by the recent changes in our schedules and workload, coupled with health concerns and economic uncertainty. This type of environment can contribute to rising levels of stress, which in turn can take a toll on our mood balance and reduce sleep quality. That is why we wanted to share a few natural health products and lifestyle tips that can help to manage the effects of stress and promote mood balance.

If your anxiety or mood swings interfere with your daily life, or you have prolonged sleep disturbances talk to your health care provider. You may be clinically depressed or have other health issues that your doctor can help you with.

We know that the neurotransmitter levels are affected in mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. Serotonin also plays a role in sleep, with low levels being associated with insomnia. As such, 5-HTP can support mood by boosting the levels of serotonin in the brain. In addition to eating nutritious food, keeping hydrated, and exercising, we recommend using 5-HTP to help stabilize your mood. It is important to contact your doctor if you are feeling depressed.

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GLYCINE

SAFFRON

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS

Glycine

Crocus sativus extract (2% safranal)

WHAT IS GLYCINE?

WHAT IS SAFFRON?

Glycine is an amino acid, which has been shown to have a multitude of benefits for mind and body. It is the second most-used amino acid in the synthesis of proteins and enzymes, and acts as an inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain and spinal cord.

Saffron is a herb, which has widespread traditional health-related uses. More recently, the therapeutic role of saffron for mood support has been explored. It is a natural support for neurotransmitters, which modulate various functions in the brain including sleep and mood regulation. Saffron must be handpicked under particular conditions, leading to its status as one of the most luxurious and expensive herbs. AOR’s saffron is a pure, standardized extract, sourced from Iran, and derived from a proprietary process that extracts the main active compounds of the saffron flowers without causing oxidative damage.

HOW DOES GLYCINE HELP WITH MOOD?

Glycine is well known for supporting muscle growth and repair. More recently, its has been shown that glycine enhances memory function and improves mood. Glycine’s ability to decrease brain excitability is useful for improving sleep quality as well as mood and emotional symptoms associated with certain brain disorders such as schizophrenia. Furthermore, glycine has been shown to improve memory performance which has been impaired by jet lag, shift work or disrupted sleep. Practicing good sleep hygiene, exercising, and eating a healthy balanced diet, alongside using supplements such as glycine should be considered to help promote relaxation.

HOW DOES SAFFRON HELP WITH MOOD AND SLEEP?

Studies have shown that Saffron is effective in the management of low mood and anxiety. It has been found to have GABA-like effects. GABA is a neurotransmitter in the brain and plays a key role in sleep regulation and brain relaxation. As such, Saffron acts like a “brake” during times of stress and anxiety, regulating brain excitability and inducing relaxation. AOR’s Saffron is designed to effectively relieve feelings of anxiety. Saffron should be considered to help support mood balance and manage stress.

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LIFESTYLE TIPS FOR SUPPORTING OVERALL HEALTH Times of stress and change can lead to an increase of sleepless nights or mood imbalances opening us up to a variety of health issues. Have no fear; there are steps you can take during turbulent times as well as supplements that can help to support your body systems for optimal health.

ORTHO SLEEP ®

STAY ACTIVE Regular exercise can help to manage symptoms of anxiety, reduce stress hormones, and improve sleep quality. Try to get 30 minutes of activity in each day.

AVOID CAFFEINE Caffeine is a stimulant that may cause nervousness and jitters. If you’re feeling anxious, or having troubles sleeping, consider reducing your caffeine consumption.

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) | L-theanine | L-5-hydroxytryptophan (griffonia seed) | Melatonin Valeriana officinalis L. (valerian root extract) | Passiflora incarnate L. (passionflower extract, aerial parts) Melissa officinalis L. (lemon balm extract, aerial parts)

BREATHE DEEP Meditation and deep breathing can help to calm the mind helping you to stay present in the moment and aid in relieving stress and anxiety.

EAT A HEALTHY DIET Blood sugar levels, dehydration, and chemicals in processed foods may cause mood changes in some people. A lack of certain nutrients can also impact mood as well as immune function.

WHAT IS ORTHO SLEEP ® ?

Ortho Sleep® is an award winning premium sleep and relaxation formula. The most important neurotransmitters known to regulate the sleep-wake cycle have been combined with the most powerful herbs traditionally used to promote sleep, yielding a natural sleep remedy like no other. Ortho Sleep® contains a carefully formulated blend of nutrients and compounds that have been shown to be effective in combating insomnia, restoring a proper sleep-wake cycle and promoting healthy, restful sleep.

HOW DOES ORTHO SLEEP ® HELP WITH MOOD AND SLEEP?

Ortho Sleep® contains the neurotransmitters GABA, melatonin, 5-HTP, and the amino acid, L-theanine as well as valerian root, passionflower extract, and lemon balm, all of which possess relaxing properties. In addition, all of these ingredients work to increase the activity of GABA, which is one of the neurotransmitters key to sleep regulation. GABA acts like a “brake” during times of stress and anxiety, regulating brain excitability and inducing relaxation.

Sleep is closely linked to mood and stress. Mood and stress can cause insomnia, and similarly, lack of sleep can lead to low mood and anxiety. We cannot achieve our full potential during the day if do not achieve adequate rest. Ortho Sleep®’s potency is designed to effectively address short-term sleep disorders due to anxiety, stress and disruption of the body’s internal clock. Due to its potency, Ortho Sleep® must only be used as directed.

LAUGH Laughing helps to relieve tension in the muscles and reduces stress hormones. Longer-term, it can help to support a healthy immune system and positive mood balance.

CUDDLE Whether with a loved one or a pet, positive physical contact can help to relieve stress and anxiety by releasing oxytocin and lowering cortisol levels.

Check out our blog for more lifestyle tips at aor.ca/blogs

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Advanced Orthomolecular Research 3900 - 12 Street NE, Calgary, AB Canada T2E 8H9 Phone: 1-800-387-0177 For more information, visit aor.ca

@aorhealth

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