Detox diet, body detox diet, liver detox diet and detox diet program. Detox diet. How to do a detox diet without hurting your body. Detox diet without guesswork. Detox diet.

Detox Diet

I would like to thank TRB Health for their research and product development.

This Web Site does not sell the detox diet products discussed below. We do recommend you read the information below first. click here to order or call TRB Health toll free 1.866.810.3809

"Soluble fiber from foods such as Power Barley Formula, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease. A serving of Power Barley Formula supplies 2 grams of the soluble fiber necessary per day to have this effect."

"CHD is the cause of almost 500,000 deaths annually. Risk factors for CHD include high total cholesterol levels and high levels of low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Scientific evidence shows that adding barley to one's diet can contribute to lowering serum cholesterol."

"Promoting health by helping people get better nutrition information about the foods they eat is among FDA's top priorities, because the choices that Americans make about their diet have a great impact on their well-being," said FDA Deputy Commissioner for Medical and Scientific Affairs Scott Gottlieb, MD. "The FDA review process for making health claims, when combined with our strong enforcement work, rewards companies that make healthier products while we enforce the law against companies that appeal to consumers through false and misleading health claims."

Professional athletes are now using this detox diet to recover faster after workouts, get the right nutritional content into their body quickly and easily while traveling, to have increased natural energy, to get a better night sleep while on the road, to help with the common aches and pains associated with contact sport, and for overall general health.

The theory and clinical application of this detox diet was originally designed for people wishing to taper off psychotropic medication or regain their overall health once off medications with a detox diet.

Thousands are now using this detox diet that have never used psychotropic medication.

Most every detox diet is based on removing toxins from specific parts of the body, such as the colon, intestines, blood, liver etc. As well, most every detox diet will not rebuild the body parts or cells but only remove toxins.

This detox diet is designed to remove toxins throughout the body and improve overall body health along the way. Close attention has also been paid to the individual DNA we all have that is unique but common as well.

Example: Roughly 50% of the population cannot metabolize vitamin B 6, B 12 and folate due to a genetic variation. Taking a tablet or capsule form of these essential vitamins will not give 50% of the population the benefit they desire or are expecting.

Having ample B 6, B12, and folate are critical. Not only for a detox diet but to assist the body to not create additional toxins due to the lack of these three vitamins.

Of all the genes now known, studied and verified as to function, there is a basic structure, which comes before the function. All genetic application leads to 19 specific genes for a detox diet and of the 19 genes, a select few foods or “Super Foods” will have any effect.

Get the idea of a garden hose with a kink that does not allow water to flow through. This is what it is like to have a genetic variation.

Now get the idea of a garden hose with a kink and instead of trying to force water through the hose you can fill a bucket with water and just throw it where you want the water to be.

This is bypassing the DNA. Clinical trials show that the population with these specific genetic variations can achieve the needed vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients if they were supplied via nutrition.

A complete detox diet can be accomplished by taking a few “Super Foods” or supplements. 

• Power Barley Formula
• Omega 3
• Body Calm
• Calcium / Magnesium (Do not use Calcium / Magnesium if taking anti-anxiety or anti-convulsant medication)

These products will not replace your need to consume food but they will work hand in hand with each other, and with your body to remove toxins and rebuild your overall health.

Each type of product is described below in detail. 

click here to order

Power Barley Formula

TRB Health's Power Barley Formula consists of green barley, Aktivated barley and carrot, blended to a powdered form for rapid and easy assimilation.

This formula was created to increase intracellular glutathione, provide B vitamins in such a manner to bypass genetic variations found in a high percentage of the population, provide specific minerals, protein, suggested carbohydrates, enzymes, calcium, iron, all essential amino acids, flavonoids, and additional vitamins.

The ingredients of Power Barley Formula show one thing while the real story is hidden beneath the surface.

The formula is rich in chlorophyll, a detoxifier and blood cleaner.

The enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD) is also abundant with the formula. SOD revitalizes cells while reducing cell destruction. Possibly the most dangerous of all free radicals, superoxide, is neutralized by SOD. The importance of neutralizing superoxide is due to superoxides action of breaking down synovial fluid. Synovial is the lubricant for the body’s joints.

SOD works hand in hand with the enzyme Catalase to remove hydrogen peroxide byproducts created by the SOD activity.

SOD assists the body to fully utilize copper, manganese and zinc.

The essential trace mineral Selenium is also found in the formula. Working with vitamin E, selenium protects tissues and cell membranes. Selenium is vital for the formation of the antioxidant glutathione peroxidase. Each molecule of glutathione peroxidase will contain four atoms of selenium. 

Glutathione peroxidase attacks harmful hydrogen peroxide and converts it to water.

With the formula containing all essential amino acids, selenium, and other nutrients, the natural increase of intracellular glutathione takes place, giving the full natural body diet.

Essential Amino Acids – Amino acids you must get from a dietary source.

The amino acid histidine is needed for growth and the repair of tissue. Myelin sheaths that protect nerve cells, radiation damage repair, production of red and white blood cells, lowering of blood pressure, are all part histidine function.

The amino acid isoleucine regulates blood sugar, energy levels, and assist in hemoglobin formation. Isoleucine is metabolized in muscle tissue. The symptoms of hypoglycemia are very similar to low levels of isoleucine.

The amino acid leucine lowers elevated blood sugars, assist with the increase of hormone production, healing of bones, muscle, and skin.

The amino acid lysine assist with calcium absorption, balances nitrogen, helps children with growth and bone development, helps produce antibodies, hormones, collagen formation, tissue repair, enzymes, lowers high serum triglyceride levels, assist to fight off cold sores, and fights the herpes virus.

Add vitamin C and bioflavonoids with this amino acid and you have an excellent source to fight or prevent herpes outbreaks. 

The amino acid methionine is quite unique. Methionine neutralizes hydroxyl radicals, one of the most dangerous free radicals. Hydroxyl radicals are byproducts caused by reactions between heavy metals and free radicals.

The amino acid phenylalanine can cross the blood-brain barrier. Phenylalanine can elevate mood, suppress appetite, assist arthritis, depression, migraines, menstrual cramps, migraines, and obesity.

Depending on what each body needs naturally, the body may convert phenylalanine to the amino acid tyrosine. Tyrosine will synthesize two neurotransmitters: dopamine and norepinephrine, which will promote alertness.

Phenylalanine has been associated with side effects. The side effects are associated with direct supplementation of this amino acid. Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid the body needs but the delivery of this amino acid should only come from a food source with the proper balance of other natural amino acids and nutrients.

The amino acid threonine assist with the formation of tooth enamel, collagen, and elastin. Threonine aids in the prevention of fatty buildup in the liver and helps with the production of antibodies. Threonine helps the body maintain a proper protein balance.

The amino acid tryptophan promotes the production of niacin. (Vitamin B3)

Sufficient amounts of vitamin B6, C, folate, and magnesium are necessary for the formation of tryptophan. Tryptophan is required for the formation of serotonin.

With the assumption serotonin is regulated by several psychotropic medications, concern exist with supplementing tryptophan. There is a major difference between taking the tryptophan supplement and having a natural amino acid in foods. However, if an individual is taking psychotropic medication turkey is the one food that should be avoided.

 The amino acid valine promotes muscle metabolism, maintenance of nitrogen balance, tissue repair, gallbladder disease, and liver treatment.

Drug or medication usage for a prolonged time will cause severe amino acid deficiencies. Valine, working with other amino acids and nutrients will reverse this debilitating condition.

The non-essential amino acid homocysteine is produced in the body with the metabolism of the amino acid methionine.

Homocysteine is usually broken down into the amino acid cysteine. Cysteine is one of the amino acids needed by the cells to make intracellular glutathione. If your body does not convert homocysteine to cysteine the intracellular glutathione conversion will not take place.

The rapid conversion of homocysteine is critical. If conversion takes place too slow, homocysteine will accumulate in the body and damage cell membranes, damage blood vessels, increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, and atherosclerosis.

Rapid conversion of homocysteine requires an individual to have adequate amount of vitamin B6, B12, and folate. Over 50% of the population in the world has a genetic defect in the pathway needed to metabolize B6, B12, and folate.

Metabolism of homocysteine (sulphur-containing amino acid) is accomplished in the remethylation cycle where vitamin B12 and folic acid are essential coenzymes and degraded to methionine or through transsulfuration, which use as cofactors folate, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12 and is degraded to cystathionine.

The physician can check for hyperhomocysteine (higher than normal amount of homocysteine) with a blood test. Many medication side effects, physiological symptomology and other body and mental symptoms can be eliminated with treatment with vitamins B6, B12 and folate.

Age is a factor of B6, B12 and folate metabolism despite an individuals DNA. With age, the enzyme needed to metabolize B6, B12 and folate will be depleted and the need to supplement through nutrition increases proportionally.

The only way for an individual to receive adequate amount of B6, B12, and folate is with nutrition. The supplemental capsule or tablet form will not metabolize.

The Power Barley Formula is formulated to address this problem for the world’s population.

High levels of homocysteine will be toxic on cells that line the arteries which will make the blood prone to clotting and promote bad cholesterol (LDL) which will be deposited as plaque in blood vessels.

The function of the Power Barley Formula to assist with rapid conversion of homocysteine to cysteine is one additional vital step toward renewed health and one of several key factors of the promotion of intracellular glutathione.

Cysteine helps to detoxify toxins and protect the body from radiation damage. Cysteine as well as selenium works hand in hand with vitamin E. Cysteine also needs selenium to be effective.

Cysteine will bind with soluble iron, chelates heavy metals, and breaks down mucus in the respiratory tract, beneficial for bronchitis, emphysema, and tuberculosis.

Of note: Cysteine as a stand-alone supplement should be avoided due to toxicity.

The natural carrot portion of Power Barley Formula is crucial for the supply of minerals and vitamins to compliment and balance the Barley Green and Aktivated Barley portion of the formula.

The final component of the Power Barley Formula is Aktivated Barley.

It may be listed last but it is certainly not the least important.

Aktivated Barley was first introduced to the world in 2003 with the completion of its patented process.

Aktivated Barley is rich in Beta-Glucan. The patented process enabled the Beta-Glucan content to be increased by 94%.

Beta-Glucans are a class of polysaccharides (Polysaccharides are any class of carbohydrates, such as starch and cellulose.) found in soluble fiber. Beta-Glucans are now recognized as the most important soluble fiber.

Beta-Glucans have been shown to activate white blood cells, help prevent and reverse diabetes, assist with weight loss, promote energy and reduce cholesterol.

With insulin controlling the amount of glucose brought within the tissue for energy, insulin resistance is a problem for many people. With Beta-Glucans being a highly purified polysaccharide molecule completely made with glucose, the glucose can now be easily transformed by the body into adenosine triphospate (ATP.) This energy source can now be stored in the liver, by muscles, and other tissues. This helps stop the pancreas from excreting too much insulin and one can avoid the exhausting of insulin reserves.

Beta-Glucan does stabilize blood and tissue glucose levels.

The Power Barley is one vital step to again regain the natural body diet.

click here to order

 Omega 3

Omega 3 is an essential fatty acid. The two key components of Omega 3 are EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (Docosahexanoic).

Essential fatty acids only come from the diet.

The amount of EPA and DHA taken into the body directly relates to desired results. The type of fish used to make the Omega 3 also plays an important role.

TRB Health has specially manufactured their Omega 3 for the highest EPA and DHA content and selected an unsurpassed fish oil mixture to consistently deliver the desired results.

Distilling Process: TRB Health ensures their Omega 3 is cholesterol free, impurity free, and contaminant free before accepting delivery. Bringing their customers the highest quality Omega 3 with therapeutic levels of EPA and DHA is their policy.

Omega 3 Benefit

Omega 3 has been shown to: Aid in transmission of nerve impulses, improve hair and skin, lower blood pressure, help prevent arthritis, lower triglyceride levels and lower cholesterol, and help fight cardiovascular disease. Omega 3 has also been shown to enhance mood and alleviate depression.

Every living cell in the body requires essential fatty acids. Without essential fatty acids, the body will not be able to rebuild or produce new cells.

click here to order

The Structure of Body Calm

Melatonin:

Throughout early childhood, melatonin is usually produced in abundance.  Just before puberty, the production of melatonin begins to drop, and then continues to drop as we age.

Melatonin is one of the most powerful antioxidants ever discovered.  Melatonin has a broader range of effectiveness than beta-carotene, vitamin E and vitamin C.

Melatonin is a free radical scavenger and singlet oxygen quencher.  Singlet oxygen is an “excited” oxygen molecule whose excessive discharge of energy causes damage to other body molecules.

Most antioxidants work only in specific parts of the cells; melatonin can penetrate any cell in any part of the body.  Melatonin is one of a select few antioxidants that can penetrate the mitochondria, the cells “power plants,” which produce energy.

Melatonin also stimulates the enzyme glutathione peroxidase, another vital antioxidant.

Apart from melatonin ability to function independently as an antioxidant, melatonin has been shown to effectively raise glutathione levels in many tissues including the brain, liver, muscle and blood serum.

A research team at the University of Texas showed that subjects given melatonin doubled their brain glutathione levels within 30 minutes.  All glutathione in the body will eliminate toxic hydroxyl radicals, but brain glutathione is more effective with sleep.  Melatonin will protect brain and nerve tissue because of its glutathione enhancing ability.

In a sports physiology experiment, muscle glutathione was measured before and after extended exercise.  Pre-treatment with melatonin was done before the stress of exercise; significant decreases in glutathione levels due to oxidative stress were eliminated.  This sturdy result was a complete reversal of what would normally happen.

Potassium:

Potassium is important for healthy nervous system and regular heart rhythm.  Potassium is important for chemical reactions within the cells and aids in maintaining stable blood pressure and in transmitting electrochemical impulses.

Potassium also regulates the transfer of nutrients through cell membranes. 

Potassium has a very high ionizing tendency.  During the process of energy metabolism, potassium is consumed incessantly.  If the level of potassium falls greatly, the osmotic (process of assimilation or absorption) pressure of the cell membrane will be disrupted.

Sodium and other ions will take the place of potassium and attempt to adjust the osmotic pressure in the cells.  Once the potassium levels have decrease enough, sodium increases above a healthy point.  The balance of ions within the cell fluid is broken, a few enzymes will still work, but others falter or completely quit functioning.

Perillyl Alcohol:  A drug used in cancer prevention that belongs to the family of plant drugs called monoterpenes.

Perillyl Alcohol:  Muliple-Dose Phase I and Pharmacokinetic Study for Patients with a Personal History

This study is a multiple-dose, phase I trial of an experimental agent known as Perillyl Alcohol.  It will be given to healthy women with a history of breast cancer, which has not recurred.

Perillyl Alcohol is not a commercially available as a drug, although compounds containing high amounts (more than 90%) of a relative compound, limonene are used as food additives.  Perillyl Alcohol and limonene are members of a class of compounds known as monoterpenes; these chemicals are found naturally in citrus fruits.  There is some evidence that drugs of this class can inhibit the growth of certain cancers and precancerous lesions, perhaps by helping the body to get rid of potentially cancer-causing chemicals or by interfering with signals that cause cells to divide rapidly.  This research study is designed to look at the side effects of Perillyl Alcohol and how much of the drug in the future studies of continuous dosing of Perillyl Alcohol in h\order to determine whether this compound is useful in preventing cancer.  It is important that we clarify the side effects of Perillyl Alcohol before further studies of this agent can be done.

Clinical Studies:

High Quantity of Melatonin Identified in Tart Cherries

The University of Texas Health Science Center recently began to quantify the availability and activity of the Melatonin in cherry products.  Melatonin is a potent antioxidant for which there is extensive evidence showing it to be significant in improving the body’s circadian rhythms and natural sleep patterns.  Melatonin is rapidly absorbed by the body, and it is predicted that eating just a handful of cherries will increase melatonin levels in the blood, thereby improving the body’s natural sleep patterns.

Scientists have discovered high levels (13.5 ng/g) of the antioxidant melatonin in Montmorency tart cherries.

In additions to its antioxidative properties, melatonin has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties.

Cancer-Fighter Perillyl Alcohol Found in Tart Cherries

Research at the University of Iowa is showing the amazing properties of cherries.  According to Raymond Holm, M.D. at the University of Iowa, tart cherries contain Perillyl Alcohol (POH), a natural compound that is extremely powerful in reducing the incidence of all types of cancer.  Perillyl Alcohol “shuts down the growth of cancer cells by depriving them of the proteins they need to grow,” explains Dr. Hohl.  “It works on every kind of cancer we’ve tested it against.”

Brunswick Laboratories

Researchers at Brunswick Laboratories (Wareham, Mass.)  verified the natural antioxidants present in Montmorency tart cherries, the leading U.S. tart cherry variety, will be available for use in the products soon.  Lead researcher Dr. Boxin Ou also confirmed the presence of substantial quantities of melatonin.  He also identified two important flavonoids – isoquertrin and quertrin – and documented the presence of ellagic acid in cherries.

Ellagic acid is a natural occurring plant phenolic that is known as a potent anti-carcinogenic/anti-mutagenic compound.  Clinical tests conducted at the Hollings Cancer Institute at the Medical University of Southern Carolina (MUSC) shows that ellagic acid may be the most potent way to prevent cancer.

The flavonoids (Any of a large group of plant substances that included the anthocyanins.)  Anthocyanins (Any of various water-soluble pigments that impart to flowers and other plant parts colors ranging from violet and blue to most shades of red.)  --isoqueritrin and queritrin – act as antioxidants as do the anothcyanins.  They work to eliminate by-products of oxidative stress and thereby slow the aging process.

Michigan State University First to Identify Anthocyanins in Tart Cherries

“Twenty cherries provide 25mg of anothcyanins which help shut down the enzymes that cause tissue inflammation in the first place, so cherries can prevent and treat many kinds of pain,” states Dr. Nair, Michigan State University Researcher.  Anthocyanins are plant pigments responsible for the bright red color of cherries.  These pigments are known to have antioxidant activity and antioxidants are believed to play a role in reducing the risk of various human degenerative diseases.  Tart cherries contain anthocyanins and flavonoids, which inhibit the enzymes and prevent inflammation in the body.  These compounds have similar activity as aspirin, naproxen, and ibuprofen.  The anthocyanins may also protect artery walls from damage that leads to plaque buildup and heart disease.  Recent studies show that anothcyanins do a better job of protecting arteries that vitamins C and E.

There are 17 antioxidants in tart cherries.  Two of these, antocyanins 1 and 2, can inhibit the cycleoxygenase (COX) enzymes, which are associated with the pain of arthritis and gout.  In comparison of 10 small fruits, cherries had the highest level of anthcyanins 1 and 2.  Anthocyanins 1 and 2 are NOT present in blueberries or cranberries.

What’s New on MELATONIN?

As we grow older we produce less and less melatonin.  Also, if there is some sort of trauma in our lives at any time we do not produce as much Melatonin.  This could have a great deal to do with why people are not sleeping well.  Perhaps it is more than stress.   It is because they are not producing enough Melatonin to tell them that it is time to sleep.  Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate– a 100% tart cherry extract is loaded with Melatonin.

Dr. Russell Reiter, University of Texas Health Science Center, is said to be the Dean of Melatonin Research and he gives cherries high marks.  We were surprised at how much Melatonin was in cherries, specifically the Montmorency variety, says Reiter.  And Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate, which involves greatly reducing the water content, has ten times, the Melatonin of the raw fruit.  Tart Cherries contain and extremely significant quantity of melatonin, enough to produce positive results in the body.

Montmorency cherries, which account for the majority of tart cherries produced in the United Sates, contain up to 13.5 nanograms (ng) of melatonin per gram of cherries, more than is normally found in the blood.  Melatonin is by far the most potent of the antioxidants, much more so than vitamins C, E and A.  The reason:  melatonin is soluble both in fat and water and can therefore enter some cells that vitamins cannot.  For example, vitamin E is soluble in the lipid part of the cell only and vitamin C in the aqueous part.  Melatonin is soluble in both.  For this reason, Dr. Reiter says, eating cherries with high melatonin concentrations will increase the antioxidant capacity in the body.

** From the Cherry Marketing Institute’s Cherry Advantage Issue # 3 December 2002.

Barlow-Walden LR, Reiter RJ, Abe M, et al

Melatonin stimulates brain glutathione peroxidase activity.

Neurochem, Int. 26: 497-502,1995

click here to order

Vitamin E

At excess levels vitamin E is toxic and can lead to gastrointestinal, cardiovascular and neurological side effects. The truth is, at any level vitamin E can be toxic.

Planning your vitamin E intake is necessary to reduce the possible adverse reactions from taking one of the most important vitamins for the body.

Therapeutic dosages of vitamin E are much higher than 25 i.u. each day. One needs to work their daily vitamin E intake up to 1,200 i.u.  

Vitamin E only goes toxic at the 1,200 i.u. or the 25 i.u. level if the intracellular glutathione levels are too low.

Vitamin E will grab a toxin but if it does not have sufficient glutathione to pass the toxin to, the vitamin E will not only be inactive at that point as an antioxidant but will become toxic as well.

Accumulation of these oxidized vitamin E molecules will lead to cell death.

Having intracellular glutathione is imperative while supplementing with vitamin E.

Vitamin E comes in two groups: Tocopherols and Tocotrienols

The TRB Health vitamin E comes as: D-Alpha Tocopherol, D-Beta
D-Tocopherol, D-Gamma Tocopherol, and D-Delta Tocopherol.

Alpha Tocopherol is the most potent of these.

A vitamin E with DL on the label is synthetic and should be avoided.

Symptoms of low levels of vitamin E include: bowel cancer, breast cancer, and heart disease.

Vitamin E does: Promote normal blood clotting, wound healing, helps reduce scarring, lowers high blood pressure, helps prevent cataracts, relaxes leg cramps, helps maintain healthy nerves, strengthens capillary walls, fights anemia, promotes healthy hair and healthy skin.

Get your intracellular glutathione up to normal, begin taking vitamin E and feel the difference right away.

click here to order

Vitamins

Beyond being essential for life, vitamins help regulate the metabolism, aid the biochemical process that release and help transport energy from our digested foods. Vitamins may be viewed, as a micronutrient due to the small amount the body needs compared to other nutrients. Water, proteins, fats and carbohydrates being the major nutrients needed.

Enzymes are essential chemicals. Enzymes are the “activators” in the chemical change process within the body. With the role vitamins play with enzymes, vitamins are also known as a co-enzyme.

Vitamins are either water-soluble or oil soluble. Water-soluble vitamins cannot be stored within the body and will need to be replenished daily. The breakdown and removal of water-soluble vitamins will occur within 4 to 24 hours.

Oil soluble vitamins are stored for extended periods. Storage can take place in the fatty tissue and the liver.

click here to order

Vitamin & Mineral Balance

Balance is required of all nutrients.

Balancing vitamins from an initial health program needs to be done with caution and with a healthcare professional that fully understands the needs of the patient. If a person is suffering from some type of toxic exposure, weather it is from medication or a foreign chemical exposure, a thorough understanding must be present or more harm than help may occur.

Most understand the balance needed with vitamin B and vitamin C but few medical professionals understand what is happening within the cells regarding vitamins when toxic exposure has occurred. This can be like adding gasoline to a fire.

Example: If you were treating an alcoholic and you increased vitamin E before increasing intracellular glutathione, you will make this person extremely toxic. In the alcoholic’s weakened state, other symptoms will occur quickly.

click here to order

Natural Versus Synthetic Vitamins

With the current understanding of DNA, it is now known a high percentage of individuals cannot metabolize or absorb vitamins.

The chances of a vitamin tablet or capsule even breaking down in the stomach or intestines is relatively small.

When you throw into the equation that around 50% of the population will not metabolize or absorb the vitamin if it makes it through the first step, the percentage of the population that will even be getting help from the standard vitamin is minuscule.

If a synthetic vitamin is being used, the chances the body will reject it as foreign is possible. There may not be a chemical difference between a synthetic and natural vitamin but even in 2005 we are continually finding new enzymes and new structures of vitamins we thought never existed.

With a synthetic vitamin you will only be receiving the chemical the scientists in the laboratory knew were in the natural vitamin.

Protein-bonded vitamins are absorbed and utilized better and will be retained in the tissues better than synthetic, chemical-derived vitamins.

“Super Foods,” rich in specific nutrients, designed to work in balance and synergy is the ideal way to promote body health and well being.

click here to order

Minerals

Every living cell for proper function and structure needs minerals. From formation of blood, formation of bone, proper make up of body fluids, healthy nerve function, and regulation of muscle tone, minerals are needed.

All enzyme functions require minerals. With enzymes used to metabolize foods as well as medication, having the required minerals is essential.

Minerals are classified into two groups: Bulk minerals and trace minerals.

The most common bulk minerals are: Calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and sodium.

Common trace minerals are: Boron, chromium, copper, iodine, iron, manganese, selenium, sulfur, and zinc.

Mineral Metabolism

It is not uncommon to find individuals unable to absorb bulk minerals. Unlike vitamins, the lack of absorption of minerals is not from variation in the individual’s genes, it is due to insufficient nutrients, which promote absorption.

It is all too common to find individuals with test results showing high levels of calcium and magnesium. These individuals are usually only lacking the nutrients needed to promote absorption.

Once a mineral is absorbed, it must be carried to blood cells and then it can be transported across the cell membrane in a structure that can be used by the cells. Again, having absorption is the first critical step for mineral benefit.

Minerals will compete with each other for absorption. The strong minerals survive while the weak minerals wait for their turn but breakdown and pass out of the body or remain lodged in undesirable states.

High in fiber can be good for the diet BUT – Taking fiber at the wrong time will decrease the body’s absorption of minerals.

Having adequate intracellular glutathione is vital for mineral interaction and regulation.

Example: Zinc and copper in an unbalanced amount will throw the body off, calcium and magnesium unbalanced will throw the body off. With ample intracellular glutathione levels the margin of error possible with mineral consumption is vast.

With minerals introduced to the body through “Super Foods” and complemented with delivery of other vital nutrients in balance, a natural body diet can be obtained.

click here to order

Free Radicals Oxidation and Antioxidation

You take a breath, eat, walk, snore, run, and have any part of your body make a movement outside or inside, you begin creating free radicals.

Each cell of the body is under continuous stress from normal functioning. Each cell is like a machine that will wear down over time if it is not cared for. Cells derive their energy from fuel and once the full is burned, much like our vehicles, a toxin is created.

The cells are naturally structured to handle these toxins but a continued consumption of fuel and spent energy will overload the strongest of bodies. The toxins need to be neutralized.

Looking inside a cell, you would see thousands of minute chemical reactions using oxygen to metabolize nutrients and release energy.

This is when oxyradicals (unstable atoms) are formed.

Atoms consist of a dense, central, positively charged nucleus surrounded by a system of electrons.

Nucleus is a group of atoms bound in a structure.

Electrons are particles that circle the nucleus. Electrons are considered to be negatively charged.

Electrons work in pairs while they orbit the nucleus.

At times during oxidation, an electron is knocked off its orbit.

When one electron is knocked off orbit, the other electron will steal an electron from a neighbor.

Imagine you work in an office with 50 other people. Each of you has one ink pen. Each of you needs to have an ink pen. You lose your ink pen and then take the pen from the desk next to yours. The person that now does not have an ink pen takes an ink pen from someone else. This cycle continues with each person taking a pen from another person.

When this happens within the body, the disrupted molecules can cause severe cellular damage.

As long as the cells have adequate natural antioxidants, the antioxidants will neutralize free radicals by giving them an electron. With the ink pen case above, when you lost your ink pen another ink pen just appeared for you and you did not have to take the ink pen from your neighbor.

Glutathione will give an electron when it encounters a positively charged electron and turn the radical into harmless water.

click here to order

A detox diet needs to do a few things to be effective. First and foremost, a detox diet must increase the phase II of the liver. The liver uses two phases to breakdown chemical toxins.

Phase I

At the end of phase I the liver has accumulated the toxins but they are now in their raw state. This is the stage where your body is the most exposed to toxins. The liver is now holding the toxins in their most toxic state.

Phase II

The liver passes the toxins over to the phase II process. If the phase II process is not functioning properly, the toxins will not be removed and the raw toxins may be dumped back into the body. Phase II is where the toxins are carried out of the body. It is vital during a liver detox that phase II is fully activated.

It is also during phase II that glutathione comes into play. Glutathione being activated is every bit as vital during the phase II process of a detox.

There are probably as many viewpoints about how to detox as there are products being sold to handle a detox. However, it does come down to only two items within the liver, phase I and phase II, the breaking down of toxins and moving them out of the body.

There are 3 genes that regulate the phase II of the liver. The gene names are: GSTM1, GSTT1, and GSTP1. The G does stand for Glutathione. At least 50% of the population will have 1 or more of these genes with a variation. For the people with a variation in their detox genes, they will have a more difficult time removing toxins and will need help making glutathione within the liver.

Another example of phase II detox in the liver: Smoking! Smoking actually induces the phase II process. When a person stops smoking, they gain weight. The metabolism has been altered and the products in tobacco no longer are there to induce phase II. This is also why people using many medications should not quit smoking while still using a medication. If they quit, it would make a 50 mg dosage act like it is 75 mg.

If it was not for smoking inducing the phase II detox, the tobacco toxin that is found in phase I would likely kill the smoker rather quickly.

click here to order

Turner CE, Williamson DA, Stroud PA, Talley DJ.

Carrington Laboratories, Inc., 2001 Walnut Hill Lane., Irving, TX 75038, United States.

Raw materials supplied as Aloe vera L. (sometimes referred to as Aloe barbadensis) samples often contain different composition of low and high molecular weight components when analyzed by size exclusion chromatography. One major reason for variable compositions of commercial A. vera L. materials is that they are produced by different manufacturing techniques. Consistent composition of matter based upon a given standard has been difficult to define. In addition, the method of quantifying and characterization of these commercially available materials has not been agreed upon within the industry. The end user, whether a researcher, a manufacturer, a marketing arm of industry or the consumer, should know that they are receiving a consistent product. A blind study of 32 various A. vera L. samples from different manufacturers, and a prepared sample of fresh A. vera L. gel with the commercial, biologic drug Acemannan Immunostimulanttrade mark, were analyzed for content of high molecular weight (polysaccharides) material by size exclusion chromatography with refractive index detection (SEC/RI) and SEC/RI coupled with multi-angle laser light scattering (MALLS) detection. Results from the SEC/RI analysis showed significant variation in the high molecular weight content, and the MALLS analysis also showed significant variation versus SEC/RI. In addition, HPLC analysis of the anthraquinone content showed that all samples contained significantly less than that of the raw, unwashed aloe gel. The variation of results from all analysis is attributed to differing methods in which the samples were processed by the different manufacturers.

Chemomodulatory action of Aloe vera on the profiles of enzymes associated with carcinogen metabolism and antioxidant status regulation in mice.

Singh RP, Dhanalakshmi S, Rao AR.

Cancer Biology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India.

The effect of two doses (30 microl and 60 microl/day/mice daily for 14 days) of the fresh leaf pulp extract of Aloe vera was examined on carcinogen-metabolizing phase-I and phase-II enzymes, antioxidant enzymes, glutathione content, lactate dehydrogenase and lipid peroxidation in the liver of mice. The modulatory effect of the pulp extract was also examined on extrahepatic organs (lung, kidney and forestomach) for the activities of glutathione S-transferase, DT-diophorase, superoxide dismutase and catalase. The positive control mice were treated with butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA). Significant increases in the levels of acid soluble sulfhydryl (-SH) content, NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase, NADH-cytochrome b5 reductase, glutathione S-transferase (GST), DT-diaphorase (DTD), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and glutathione reductase (GR) were observed in the liver. Aloe vera significantly reduced the levels of cytochrome P450 and cytochrome b5. Thus, Aloe vera is clearly an inducer of phase-II enzyme system. Treatment with both doses of Aloe caused a decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA) formation and the activity of lactate dehydrogenase in the liver, suggesting its role in protection against prooxidant-induced membrane and cellular damage. The microsomal and cytosolic protein was significantly enhanced by Aloe vera, indicating the possibility of its involvement in the induction of protein synthesis. BHA, an antioxidant compound, provided the authenticity of our assay protocol and response of animals against modulator. The pulp extract was effective in inducing GST, DTD, SOD and catalase as measured in extrahepatic organs. Thus, besides liver, other organs (lung, kidney and forestomach) were also influenced favorably by Aloe vera in order to detoxify reactive metabolites, including chemical carcinogens and drugs.

Vitamin C and aloe vera supplementation protects from chemical hepatocarcinogenesis in the rat.

Shamaan NA, Kadir KA, Rahmat A, Ngah WZ.

Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia.

The effects of vitamin C and aloe vera gel extract supplementation on induced hepatocarcinogenesis in male Sprague-Dawley rats (120-150 g) by diethylnitrosamine (DEN) and 2-acetylaminofluorene (AAF) was investigated. The severity of the carcinogenesis process was determined by measuring gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) and the placental form of glutathione S-transferase (GSTP) histochemically in situ and in plasma and liver fractions. In addition, plasma alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and liver microsomal uridine diphosphate glucuronyl transferase (UDPGT) activity were also determined. Administration of DEN/AAF caused an increase in the surface area and number of enzyme-positive foci (both GGT and GSTP) compared with control. Supplementation of vitamin C or aloe vera gel extract to the cancer-induced rats suppressed this increase significantly (P < 0.05; P < 0.001). Increases in liver UDPGT, GGT, and GSTP activities were also observed with cancer induction that were again suppressed with either vitamin C or aloe vera gel supplementation. Plasma GGT in the DEN/AAF rats were determined monthly for the duration of the experiment and found to be reduced as early as 1 mo with aloe vera gel supplementation and 2 mo with vitamin C supplementation. In conclusion, vitamin C and aloe vera gel extract supplementation were found to be able to reduce the severity of chemical hepatocarcinogenesis.

Possible interaction between sevoflurane and Aloe vera.

Lee A, Chui PT, Aun CS, Gin T, Lau AS.

Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China.

OBJECTIVE: To describe a patient with massive intraoperative bleeding after oral consumption of Aloe vera tablets. CASE SUMMARY: A 35-year-old woman lost 5 L of blood during surgery as a result of a possible herb-drug interaction between Aloe vera and sevoflurane. DISCUSSION: Aloe vera is a common herb used for antiinflammatory and antiarthritic activity, as well as antibacterial, hypoglycemic, and lipid-lowering effects. Compounds contained within Aloe vera can cause a reduction in prostaglandin synthesis, which may inhibit secondary aggregation of platelets. Sevoflurane inhibits thromboxane A(2) formation by suppression of cyclooxygenase activity, impairs platelet aggregation, and prolongs bleeding. Although the vascularity and size of the hemangioma were the most important factors for the massive intraoperative blood loss, concomitant use of sevoflurane and Aloe vera played a contributory role. An objective causality assessment revealed that this adverse event was possible as a result of the sevoflurane and Aloe vera interaction. CONCLUSIONS: There is a potential herb-drug interaction between Aloe vera and sevoflurane based on the antiplatelet effects of these 2 agents. Herbal medications with antiplatelet potential should be discontinued before anesthesia and surgery.

Effect of Aloe vera (L.) Burm. fil. leaf gel and pulp extracts on kidney in type-II diabetic rat models.

Bolkent S, Akev N, Ozsoy N, Sengezer-Inceli M, Can A, Alper O, Yanardag R.

Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Istanbul University, 34459-Vezneciler, Istanbul, Turkey.

Significant degenerative changes were observed in the kidney tissue of untreated neonatal streptozotocin (n0STZ)-induced type-II diabetic rats. These degenerative changes were diminished in the kidney tissue of diabetic animals given glibenclamide and Aloe leaf gel and pulp extracts. Kidney lipid peroxidation levels were increased in diabetic rats compared to healthy rats; these levels were higher in rats treated with glibenclamide than in those which received Aloe extracts. Serum urea and creatinine levels were higher in diabetic rats in comparison to healthy rats. The administration of Aloe gel extract and glibenclamide decreased serum urea and creatinine levels in comparison to diabetic controls. Only A. vera leaf gel extract showed improvement both in histological and biochemical parameters suggesting a protective effect of A. vera on mild damage caused by type-II diabetes on kidney tissue.

The effect of Aloe vera A. Berger (Liliaceae) on gastric acid secretion and acute gastric mucosal injury in rats.

Yusuf S, Agunu A, Diana M.

Department of Human Physiology, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria. sadiqyusuf@yahoo.com

The effect of varying doses of ethanol extract of Aloe vera (Liliaceae) on acute gastric mucosal lesions induced by 0.6 M HCl and acid output was studied in the pylorus ligated and lumen perfuse rats, respectively. Acid secretion was determined by titration of the collected gastric juice to pH 7.0. Intraperitoneal injection of Aloe vera, dose dependently inhibited gastric acid secretion. The plant was more active as a gastroprotective agent at lower concentration against mucosal injury induced by 0.6 M HCl. In conclusion, Aloe vera is endowed with gastric acid anti-secretory activity and could protect the gastric mucosa at low concentrations against injurious agents.

Effect of Aloe vera leaf gel and pulp extracts on the liver in type-II diabetic rat models.

Can A, Akev N, Ozsoy N, Bolkent S, Arda BP, Yanardag R, Okyar A.

Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Istanbul University, Turkey.

The aim of this work was to investigate the effects of Aloe vera leaf pulp and gel extracts on the liver tissue of neonatal streptozotocin (n0STZ)-induced type-II diabetic rats. The diabetic rats were separated into four groups and each group was given the following samples by gavage, daily for 15 d: phosphate buffered saline (PBS; diabetic control), Aloe leaf pulp extract, Aloe leaf gel extract, glibenclamide. Liver tissues were examined histologically. The markers of oxidative stress: glutathione (GSH), non-enzymatic glycosylation (NEG) and lipid peroxidation (LPO), were determined in liver tissue. Biochemical parameters for liver function: serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and alanine transaminase (ALP) activities, were evaluated. All parameters were also determined in healthy (non diabetic) rats for comparison. In the diabetic control group, the degenerative changes in liver tissue were remarkable, while in the diabetic groups given Aloe pulp and gel extracts and glibenclamide, the damage to the liver tissue was decreased. The increase of GSH and the decrease of NEG and LPO in liver tissues with the treatment of Aloe gel extract, is consistent with the beneficial effect of Aloe. Serum ALP and ALT activities were also decreased in the groups given Aloe gel extract. It was concluded that Aloe gel extract has a protective effect comparable to glibenclamide against hepatotoxicity produced by diabetes if used in the treatment of type-II diabetes.

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of oral aloe vera gel for active ulcerative colitis.

Langmead L, Feakins RM, Goldthorpe S, Holt H, Tsironi E, De Silva A, Jewell DP, Rampton DS.

Centre for Gastroenterology, Institute of Cellular and Molecular Science, Barts and The London, Queen Mary School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, UK.

BACKGROUND: The herbal preparation, aloe vera, has been claimed to have anti-inflammatory effects and, despite a lack of evidence of its therapeutic efficacy, is widely used by patients with inflammatory bowel disease. AIM: To perform a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of the efficacy and safety of aloe vera gel for the treatment of mildly to moderately active ulcerative colitis. METHODS: Forty-four evaluable hospital out-patients were randomly given oral aloe vera gel or placebo, 100 mL twice daily for 4 weeks, in a 2 : 1 ratio. The primary outcome measures were clinical remission (Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index </= 2), sigmoidoscopic remission (Baron score </= 1) and histological remission (Saverymuttu score </= 1). Secondary outcome measures included changes in the Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index (improvement was defined as a decrease of >/= 3 points; response was defined as remission or improvement), Baron score, histology score, haemoglobin, platelet count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein and albumin. RESULTS: Clinical remission, improvement and response occurred in nine (30%), 11 (37%) and 14 (47%), respectively, of 30 patients given aloe vera, compared with one (7%) [P = 0.09; odds ratio, 5.6 (0.6-49)], one (7%) [P = 0.06; odds ratio, 7.5 (0.9-66)] and two (14%) [P < 0.05; odds ratio, 5.3 (1.0-27)], respectively, of 14 patients taking placebo. The Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index and histological scores decreased significantly during treatment with aloe vera (P = 0.01 and P = 0.03, respectively), but not with placebo. Sigmoidoscopic scores and laboratory variables showed no significant differences between aloe vera and placebo. Adverse events were minor and similar in both groups of patients. CONCLUSION: Oral aloe vera taken for 4 weeks produced a clinical response more often than placebo; it also reduced the histological disease activity and appeared to be safe. Further evaluation of the therapeutic potential of aloe vera gel in inflammatory bowel disease is needed.

Anti-inflammatory effects of aloe vera gel in human colorectal mucosa in vitro.

Langmead L, Makins RJ, Rampton DS.

Centre for Adult and Paediatric Gastroenterology, Institute of Cellular and Molecular Science, Barts and the London, Queen Mary School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, UK.

BACKGROUND: Oral aloe vera gel is widely used by patients with inflammatory bowel disease and is under therapeutic evaluation for this condition. AIM: To assess the effects of aloe vera in vitro on the production of reactive oxygen metabolites, eicosanoids and interleukin-8, all of which may be pathogenic in inflammatory bowel disease. METHODS: The anti-oxidant activity of aloe vera was assessed in two cell-free, radical-generating systems and by the chemiluminescence of incubated colorectal mucosal biopsies. Eicosanoid production by biopsies and interleukin-8 release by CaCo2 epithelial cells in the presence of aloe vera were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: Aloe vera gel had a dose-dependent inhibitory effect on reactive oxygen metabolite production; 50% inhibition occurred at 1 in 1000 dilution in the phycoerythrin assay and at 1 in 10-50 dilution with biopsies. Aloe vera inhibited the production of prostaglandin E2 by 30% at 1 in 50 dilution (P = 0.03), but had no effect on thromboxane B2 production. The release of interleukin-8 by CaCo2 cells fell by 20% (P < 0.05) with aloe vera diluted at 1 in 100, but not at 1 in 10 or 1 in 1000 dilutions. CONCLUSION: The anti-inflammatory actions of aloe vera gel in vitro provide support for the proposal that it may have a therapeutic effect in inflammatory bowel disease.

Aloe-emodin modulates PKC isozymes, inhibits proliferation, and induces apoptosis in U-373MG glioma cells.

Acevedo-Duncan M, Russell C, Patel S, Patel R.

Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA; James A. Haley Veterans Hospital, Tampa, FL, USA.

Aloe-emodin (1,8-dihydroy-3-[hydroxymethyl]-anthraquione) purified from Aloe vera leaves has been reported to have antitumor activity. The objectives of our research were to determine how aloe-emodin regulates the cell cycle, cell proliferation and protein kinase C (PKC) during glioma growth and development. To establish the cell cycle effects of aloe-emodin on brain cells [transformed glia cell line (SVG) and human glioma U-373MG cell line (U-373MG)], cells were treated with either dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO; control) or aloe-emodin (40 muM). Results from flow cytometry demonstrated that aloe-emodin delayed the number of cells entering and exiting DNA synthesis (S) phase in both SVG and U-373MG cells indicating that aloe-emodin may inhibit S phase progression. Assessment of cell viability demonstrated that SVG and U-373MG glioma cell were highly sensitive to aloe-emodin. The aloe-emodin-induced decreased proliferation was sustained at 48-96 h. A PKC activity assay was quantified to establish the role of PKC in aloe-emodin's mode of action. Exposure of SVG and U-373MG glioma cells to aloe-emodin suppressed PKC activity and reduced the protein content of most of the PKC isozymes. We determined that cancer growth inhibition by aloe-emodin was due to apoptosis (i.e., programmed cell death). Taken together, these results support the hypothesis that aloe-emodin represents a novel antitumor chemotherapeutic drug.

Evaluation and comparison of commercially available Aloe Vera L. products using size exclusion chromatography with refractive index and multi-angle laser light scattering detection.

Turner CE, Williamson DA, Stroud PA, Talley DJ.

Carrington Laboratories, Inc., 2001 Walnut Hill Lane., Irving, TX 75038, United States.

Raw materials supplied as Aloe vera L. (sometimes referred to as Aloe barbadensis) samples often contain different composition of low and high molecular weight components when analyzed by size exclusion chromatography. One major reason for variable compositions of commercial A. vera L. materials is that they are produced by different manufacturing techniques. Consistent composition of matter based upon a given standard has been difficult to define. In addition, the method of quantifying and characterization of these commercially available materials has not been agreed upon within the industry. The end user, whether a researcher, a manufacturer, a marketing arm of industry or the consumer, should know that they are receiving a consistent product. A blind study of 32 various A. vera L. samples from different manufacturers, and a prepared sample of fresh A. vera L. gel with the commercial, biologic drug Acemannan Immunostimulanttrade mark, were analyzed for content of high molecular weight (polysaccharides) material by size exclusion chromatography with refractive index detection (SEC/RI) and SEC/RI coupled with multi-angle laser light scattering (MALLS) detection. Results from the SEC/RI analysis showed significant variation in the high molecular weight content, and the MALLS analysis also showed significant variation versus SEC/RI. In addition, HPLC analysis of the anthraquinone content showed that all samples contained significantly less than that of the raw, unwashed aloe gel. The variation of results from all analysis is attributed to differing methods in which the samples were processed by the different manufacturers.

Chemomodulatory action of Aloe vera on the profiles of enzymes associated with carcinogen metabolism and antioxidant status regulation in mice.

Singh RP, Dhanalakshmi S, Rao AR.

Cancer Biology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India.

The effect of two doses (30 microl and 60 microl/day/mice daily for 14 days) of the fresh leaf pulp extract of Aloe vera was examined on carcinogen-metabolizing phase-I and phase-II enzymes, antioxidant enzymes, glutathione content, lactate dehydrogenase and lipid peroxidation in the liver of mice. The modulatory effect of the pulp extract was also examined on extrahepatic organs (lung, kidney and forestomach) for the activities of glutathione S-transferase, DT-diophorase, superoxide dismutase and catalase. The positive control mice were treated with butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA). Significant increases in the levels of acid soluble sulfhydryl (-SH) content, NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase, NADH-cytochrome b5 reductase, glutathione S-transferase (GST), DT-diaphorase (DTD), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and glutathione reductase (GR) were observed in the liver. Aloe vera significantly reduced the levels of cytochrome P450 and cytochrome b5. Thus, Aloe vera is clearly an inducer of phase-II enzyme system. Treatment with both doses of Aloe caused a decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA) formation and the activity of lactate dehydrogenase in the liver, suggesting its role in protection against prooxidant-induced membrane and cellular damage. The microsomal and cytosolic protein was significantly enhanced by Aloe vera, indicating the possibility of its involvement in the induction of protein synthesis. BHA, an antioxidant compound, provided the authenticity of our assay protocol and response of animals against modulator. The pulp extract was effective in inducing GST, DTD, SOD and catalase as measured in extrahepatic organs. Thus, besides liver, other organs (lung, kidney and forestomach) were also influenced favorably by Aloe vera in order to detoxify reactive metabolites, including chemical carcinogens and drugs.

Vitamin C and aloe vera supplementation protects from chemical hepatocarcinogenesis in the rat.

Shamaan NA, Kadir KA, Rahmat A, Ngah WZ.

Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia.

The effects of vitamin C and aloe vera gel extract supplementation on induced hepatocarcinogenesis in male Sprague-Dawley rats (120-150 g) by diethylnitrosamine (DEN) and 2-acetylaminofluorene (AAF) was investigated. The severity of the carcinogenesis process was determined by measuring gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) and the placental form of glutathione S-transferase (GSTP) histochemically in situ and in plasma and liver fractions. In addition, plasma alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and liver microsomal uridine diphosphate glucuronyl transferase (UDPGT) activity were also determined. Administration of DEN/AAF caused an increase in the surface area and number of enzyme-positive foci (both GGT and GSTP) compared with control. Supplementation of vitamin C or aloe vera gel extract to the cancer-induced rats suppressed this increase significantly (P < 0.05; P < 0.001). Increases in liver UDPGT, GGT, and GSTP activities were also observed with cancer induction that were again suppressed with either vitamin C or aloe vera gel supplementation. Plasma GGT in the DEN/AAF rats were determined monthly for the duration of the experiment and found to be reduced as early as 1 mo with aloe vera gel supplementation and 2 mo with vitamin C supplementation. In conclusion, vitamin C and aloe vera gel extract supplementation were found to be able to reduce the severity of chemical hepatocarcinogenesis.

Possible interaction between sevoflurane and Aloe vera.

Lee A, Chui PT, Aun CS, Gin T, Lau AS.

Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China.

OBJECTIVE: To describe a patient with massive intraoperative bleeding after oral consumption of Aloe vera tablets. CASE SUMMARY: A 35-year-old woman lost 5 L of blood during surgery as a result of a possible herb-drug interaction between Aloe vera and sevoflurane. DISCUSSION: Aloe vera is a common herb used for antiinflammatory and antiarthritic activity, as well as antibacterial, hypoglycemic, and lipid-lowering effects. Compounds contained within Aloe vera can cause a reduction in prostaglandin synthesis, which may inhibit secondary aggregation of platelets. Sevoflurane inhibits thromboxane A(2) formation by suppression of cyclooxygenase activity, impairs platelet aggregation, and prolongs bleeding. Although the vascularity and size of the hemangioma were the most important factors for the massive intraoperative blood loss, concomitant use of sevoflurane and Aloe vera played a contributory role. An objective causality assessment revealed that this adverse event was possible as a result of the sevoflurane and Aloe vera interaction. CONCLUSIONS: There is a potential herb-drug interaction between Aloe vera and sevoflurane based on the antiplatelet effects of these 2 agents. Herbal medications with antiplatelet potential should be discontinued before anesthesia and surgery.

Effect of Aloe vera (L.) Burm. fil. leaf gel and pulp extracts on kidney in type-II diabetic rat models.

Bolkent S, Akev N, Ozsoy N, Sengezer-Inceli M, Can A, Alper O, Yanardag R.

Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Istanbul University, 34459-Vezneciler, Istanbul, Turkey.

Significant degenerative changes were observed in the kidney tissue of untreated neonatal streptozotocin (n0STZ)-induced type-II diabetic rats. These degenerative changes were diminished in the kidney tissue of diabetic animals given glibenclamide and Aloe leaf gel and pulp extracts. Kidney lipid peroxidation levels were increased in diabetic rats compared to healthy rats; these levels were higher in rats treated with glibenclamide than in those which received Aloe extracts. Serum urea and creatinine levels were higher in diabetic rats in comparison to healthy rats. The administration of Aloe gel extract and glibenclamide decreased serum urea and creatinine levels in comparison to diabetic controls. Only A. vera leaf gel extract showed improvement both in histological and biochemical parameters suggesting a protective effect of A. vera on mild damage caused by type-II diabetes on kidney tissue.

The effect of Aloe vera A. Berger (Liliaceae) on gastric acid secretion and acute gastric mucosal injury in rats.

Yusuf S, Agunu A, Diana M.

Department of Human Physiology, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria. sadiqyusuf@yahoo.com

The effect of varying doses of ethanol extract of Aloe vera (Liliaceae) on acute gastric mucosal lesions induced by 0.6 M HCl and acid output was studied in the pylorus ligated and lumen perfuse rats, respectively. Acid secretion was determined by titration of the collected gastric juice to pH 7.0. Intraperitoneal injection of Aloe vera, dose dependently inhibited gastric acid secretion. The plant was more active as a gastroprotective agent at lower concentration against mucosal injury induced by 0.6 M HCl. In conclusion, Aloe vera is endowed with gastric acid anti-secretory activity and could protect the gastric mucosa at low concentrations against injurious agents.

Effect of Aloe vera leaf gel and pulp extracts on the liver in type-II diabetic rat models.

Can A, Akev N, Ozsoy N, Bolkent S, Arda BP, Yanardag R, Okyar A.

Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Istanbul University, Turkey.

The aim of this work was to investigate the effects of Aloe vera leaf pulp and gel extracts on the liver tissue of neonatal streptozotocin (n0STZ)-induced type-II diabetic rats. The diabetic rats were separated into four groups and each group was given the following samples by gavage, daily for 15 d: phosphate buffered saline (PBS; diabetic control), Aloe leaf pulp extract, Aloe leaf gel extract, glibenclamide. Liver tissues were examined histologically. The markers of oxidative stress: glutathione (GSH), non-enzymatic glycosylation (NEG) and lipid peroxidation (LPO), were determined in liver tissue. Biochemical parameters for liver function: serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and alanine transaminase (ALP) activities, were evaluated. All parameters were also determined in healthy (non diabetic) rats for comparison. In the diabetic control group, the degenerative changes in liver tissue were remarkable, while in the diabetic groups given Aloe pulp and gel extracts and glibenclamide, the damage to the liver tissue was decreased. The increase of GSH and the decrease of NEG and LPO in liver tissues with the treatment of Aloe gel extract, is consistent with the beneficial effect of Aloe. Serum ALP and ALT activities were also decreased in the groups given Aloe gel extract. It was concluded that Aloe gel extract has a protective effect comparable to glibenclamide against hepatotoxicity produced by diabetes if used in the treatment of type-II diabetes.

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of oral aloe vera gel for active ulcerative colitis.

Langmead L, Feakins RM, Goldthorpe S, Holt H, Tsironi E, De Silva A, Jewell DP, Rampton DS.

Centre for Gastroenterology, Institute of Cellular and Molecular Science, Barts and The London, Queen Mary School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, UK.

BACKGROUND: The herbal preparation, aloe vera, has been claimed to have anti-inflammatory effects and, despite a lack of evidence of its therapeutic efficacy, is widely used by patients with inflammatory bowel disease. AIM: To perform a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of the efficacy and safety of aloe vera gel for the treatment of mildly to moderately active ulcerative colitis. METHODS: Forty-four evaluable hospital out-patients were randomly given oral aloe vera gel or placebo, 100 mL twice daily for 4 weeks, in a 2 : 1 ratio. The primary outcome measures were clinical remission (Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index </= 2), sigmoidoscopic remission (Baron score </= 1) and histological remission (Saverymuttu score </= 1). Secondary outcome measures included changes in the Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index (improvement was defined as a decrease of >/= 3 points; response was defined as remission or improvement), Baron score, histology score, haemoglobin, platelet count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein and albumin. RESULTS: Clinical remission, improvement and response occurred in nine (30%), 11 (37%) and 14 (47%), respectively, of 30 patients given aloe vera, compared with one (7%) [P = 0.09; odds ratio, 5.6 (0.6-49)], one (7%) [P = 0.06; odds ratio, 7.5 (0.9-66)] and two (14%) [P < 0.05; odds ratio, 5.3 (1.0-27)], respectively, of 14 patients taking placebo. The Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index and histological scores decreased significantly during treatment with aloe vera (P = 0.01 and P = 0.03, respectively), but not with placebo. Sigmoidoscopic scores and laboratory variables showed no significant differences between aloe vera and placebo. Adverse events were minor and similar in both groups of patients. CONCLUSION: Oral aloe vera taken for 4 weeks produced a clinical response more often than placebo; it also reduced the histological disease activity and appeared to be safe. Further evaluation of the therapeutic potential of aloe vera gel in inflammatory bowel disease is needed.

Anti-inflammatory effects of aloe vera gel in human colorectal mucosa in vitro.

Langmead L, Makins RJ, Rampton DS.

Centre for Adult and Paediatric Gastroenterology, Institute of Cellular and Molecular Science, Barts and the London, Queen Mary School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, UK.

BACKGROUND: Oral aloe vera gel is widely used by patients with inflammatory bowel disease and is under therapeutic evaluation for this condition. AIM: To assess the effects of aloe vera in vitro on the production of reactive oxygen metabolites, eicosanoids and interleukin-8, all of which may be pathogenic in inflammatory bowel disease. METHODS: The anti-oxidant activity of aloe vera was assessed in two cell-free, radical-generating systems and by the chemiluminescence of incubated colorectal mucosal biopsies. Eicosanoid production by biopsies and interleukin-8 release by CaCo2 epithelial cells in the presence of aloe vera were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: Aloe vera gel had a dose-dependent inhibitory effect on reactive oxygen metabolite production; 50% inhibition occurred at 1 in 1000 dilution in the phycoerythrin assay and at 1 in 10-50 dilution with biopsies. Aloe vera inhibited the production of prostaglandin E2 by 30% at 1 in 50 dilution (P = 0.03), but had no effect on thromboxane B2 production. The release of interleukin-8 by CaCo2 cells fell by 20% (P < 0.05) with aloe vera diluted at 1 in 100, but not at 1 in 10 or 1 in 1000 dilutions. CONCLUSION: The anti-inflammatory actions of aloe vera gel in vitro provide support for the proposal that it may have a therapeutic effect in inflammatory bowel disease.

Aloe-emodin modulates PKC isozymes, inhibits proliferation, and induces apoptosis in U-373MG glioma cells.

Acevedo-Duncan M, Russell C, Patel S, Patel R.

Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA; James A. Haley Veterans Hospital, Tampa, FL, USA.

Aloe-emodin (1,8-dihydroy-3-[hydroxymethyl]-anthraquione) purified from Aloe vera leaves has been reported to have antitumor activity. The objectives of our research were to determine how aloe-emodin regulates the cell cycle, cell proliferation and protein kinase C (PKC) during glioma growth and development. To establish the cell cycle effects of aloe-emodin on brain cells [transformed glia cell line (SVG) and human glioma U-373MG cell line (U-373MG)], cells were treated with either dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO; control) or aloe-emodin (40 muM). Results from flow cytometry demonstrated that aloe-emodin delayed the number of cells entering and exiting DNA synthesis (S) phase in both SVG and U-373MG cells indicating that aloe-emodin may inhibit S phase progression. Assessment of cell viability demonstrated that SVG and U-373MG glioma cell were highly sensitive to aloe-emodin. The aloe-emodin-induced decreased proliferation was sustained at 48-96 h. A PKC activity assay was quantified to establish the role of PKC in aloe-emodin's mode of action. Exposure of SVG and U-373MG glioma cells to aloe-emodin suppressed PKC activity and reduced the protein content of most of the PKC isozymes. We determined that cancer growth inhibition by aloe-emodin was due to apoptosis (i.e., programmed cell death). Taken together, these results support the hypothesis that aloe-emodin represents a novel antitumor chemotherapeutic drug.

 

Consult with a health-care practitioner if you have any preexisting medical conditions, including high blood pressure, heart or thyroid problems, nervous disorders, diabetes, or are taking any prescription drug.

Before beginning any program of weight loss, consult your health care practitioner. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA except as noted. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.