Isotonix® Calcium Plus

Riboflavin (5-Phosphate) 
Riboflavin, is a water soluble vitamin that's primary function is as a coenzyme to support metabolic processes in the body. It promotes healthy red cell formation, nervous system function and also acts as an antioxidant. Another key function of the vitamin is in the production of energy, where it acts as part of the electron transport chain that produces cellular energy. In the mitochondrial electron transport chain, vitamin B2 is an intermediate hydrogen acceptor of foodstuffs, and then passes the electrons onto the cytochrome system, where the cellular energy is produced.

Requirements for vitamin B2 are associated with calorie intake, because with an increase food intake your body also needs an increase of vitamin B2 to carry out the metabolic processes that will convert the food into usable energy. Nutritional inaccuracy is a common cause of vitamin B2 deficiency, which can occur in the elderly. Foods that are rich in the vitamin B2 are organ meats, eggs, milk, cheese, yogurt, leafy, green vegetables, and whole grains.

Calcium (Carbonate, Lactate, Phosphate, Sulfate, Citrate)
The highest concentration of calcium is found in milk. Other foods rich in calcium include vegetables such as collard greens, Chinese cabbage, mustard greens, broccoli, bok choy and tofu. Calcium is an essential mineral with a wide range of biological roles. Calcium exists in bone primarily in the form of hydroxyapatite (Ca10 (PO4)6 (OH)2). Hydroxyapatite accounts for approximately 40 percent of bone weight. The skeleton has a structural requisite and acts as a storehouse for calcium. Apart from being a major component of bones and teeth, calcium supports normal muscle contraction, nerve health, heart rhythms, blood coagulation, glandular secretion, energy production and immune system function.

Sufficient daily calcium intake is necessary for maintaining optimal bone density, healthy bones and teeth and has been shown to ease the discomfort of PMS in women. When the body does not get enough calcium per day, it draws calcium from your bones. The amount of calcium in the blood is regulated by PTH (parathyroid hormone). High levels of calcium in the body correlate with normal cardiovascular health and normal cholesterol levels. In the American Dietetic Association Journal, a study revealed that calcium helped middle-aged women to maintain healthy weight levels.

Magnesium (Oxide, Carbonate)
Foods rich in magnesium include unpolished grains, nuts and green vegetables. Green leafy vegetables are potent sources of magnesium because of their chlorophyll content. Meats, starches, dairy products and refined and processed foods contain low amounts of magnesium. The average daily magnesium intake in the U.S. for males nine years and older is estimated to be about 323 milligrams; for females nine years and older, it is estimated to be around 228 milligrams. Recent research shows that our diets are magnesium deficient.

Magnesium is a component of the mineralized part of bone and supports the normal metabolism of potassium and calcium in adults. It helps maintain normal levels of potassium, phosphorus, calcium, adrenaline and insulin. It also supports the normal transport of calcium inside the cell for utilization. Magnesium promotes the normal functioning of muscle and nervous tissue and the normal synthesis of all proteins, nucleic acids, nucleotides, cyclic adenosine monophosphate, lipids and carbohydrates. Magnesium helps combat oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation.

Manganese (Sulfate)
Manganese is a mineral found in large quantities in both plant and animal matter. The most valuable dietary sources of manganese include whole grains, nuts, leafy vegetables and teas. Manganese is concentrated in the bran of grains, which is often removed during processing. Only trace amounts of this element can be found in human tissue. Manganese is predominantly stored in the bones, liver, kidney and pancreas. It supports the normal formation of connective tissue, bones, blood-clotting factors and sex hormones. It supports normal fat and carbohydrate metabolism, calcium absorption and blood sugar regulation. Manganese also promotes normal brain and nerve function.

Manganese is a component of the antioxidant enzyme manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD). Antioxidants scavenge free radicals that can cause premature aging and oxidative stress to the body. These particles occur naturally in the body but can possibly contribute to the aging process. Antioxidants such as MnSOD can neutralize free radicals. Some experts estimate that as many as 37 percent of Americans do not get the recommended daily amounts of manganese in their diet. This may be due to the fact that whole grains are a major source of dietary manganese, and many Americans consume refined grains more often than whole grains. Refined grains provide half the amount of manganese as whole grains.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
The best food sources of vitamin C include all citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruit, lemons and tangerines), strawberries, tomatoes, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, peppers and cantaloupe. Vitamin C is a "fragile" vitamin and can be easily destroyed by cooking or exposure of food to oxygen. Vitamin C promotes a vitamin "sparing" effect, supporting your body’s ability to utilize multiple vitamins and minerals such as thiamin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, biotin, folic acid, B12, retinaldehyde and alpha-tocopherol and the mineral calcium. It's also a cofactor or supporter in the normal metabolism of folic acid, some amino acids and hormones. Being an effective antioxidant, it also supports iron absorption from the small intestine. Vitamin C supports vitamin E in cell membranes. It supports the normal synthesis of collagen. Vitamin C supports cardiovascular health, normal cholesterol levels and supports a healthy immune system.

Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol)
Regular sunlight exposure is the main way that most humans get their vitamin D. Food sources of vitamin D include vitamin D-fortified milk (100 IU per cup), cod liver oil and fatty fish such as salmon, and small amounts are found in egg yolks and liver. Vitamin D promotes the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, and supports the production of several proteins involved in calcium absorption and storage. Vitamin D works with calcium to promote strong, hard bones. It supports normal transport of calcium out of the osteoblasts into the extra-cellular fluid and in the kidneys. It also promotes normal calcium and phosphate re-uptake through the renal tubules and intestinal epithelium. It supports normal skin cell growth and promotes normal production of insulin by the pancreas.

Sodium (bicarbonate)
To combat fatigue, athletes in sprint-type sports take a form of sodium bicarbonate. During very intense exercise, lactic acid accumulation in the muscle cells can lead to premature fatigue and may reduce athletic performance. Sodium bicarbonate also improves endurance performance.

Potassium (Bicarbonate, Citrate)
Potassium is an electrolyte stored in the muscles. Foods rich in potassium include bananas, oranges, cantaloupe, avocado, raw spinach, cabbage and celery. Potassium is an essential macromineral that helps maintain fluid balance in the body. It also plays a role in a wide variety of biochemical and physiological processes. Among other things, potassium supports the normal transmission of nerve impulses, contraction of cardiac, skeletal and smooth muscle, production of energy, synthesis of nucleic acids, maintenance of intracellular tonicity and maintenance of normal blood pressure.

In 1928, it was first suggested that high potassium intake could help maintain cardiovascular health. Potassium supports normal muscle relaxation and insulin release. It also promotes glycogen and protein synthesis. Potassium is an electrolyte that promotes normal heartbeat. Potassium is important in releasing energy from protein, fat and carbohydrates during metabolism. Potassium supports the body’s ability to regulate water balance, recover from exercise and eliminate wastes.

1. If I am not an elderly woman, why should I take a calcium supplement?
   Calcium plays a huge role in regulating many major bodily processes with implications that extend far beyond the age factor. Other than elderly women who may be susceptible to bone loss, younger women, pregnant and lactating women, growing children and men should take a calcium supplement. Younger women need more calcium to build up the strength of their bones. Pregnant and lactating women need extra calcium, at least 1200 mg/day to foster the healthy growth of new cells and of breast milk. Growing children need extra calcium, sometimes two to four times as much as an adult to assist with new bone development and proper growth. Finally, those with poor cardiovascular health have been found to have low levels of calcium intake. Studies have confirmed that calcium supplementation supports heart health.
   
   
2. I have heard calcium is great for PMS? How so? 
   PMS is an undesirable influence on physical and psychological peace of mind. Recent studies have found that over 70 percent of relationships are affected in some way by PMS. So PMS impacts nearly everyone, including men! Supplementation with calcium can reduce PMS symptoms. In a study conducted by the US Department of Agriculture's Human Nutrition Research Center, it was found that women on a high calcium diet had decreased irritability, cramping and bloating associated with PMS. Ovarian hormones affect calcium, magnesium and vitamin D metabolism. Estrogen regulates calcium metabolism, intestinal calcium absorption and parathyroid gene expression and secretion, triggering fluctuations across the menstrual cycle. As a woman menstruates, her hormones are "all over the place." Clinical trials in women with PMS have found that calcium supplementation helps reduce mood and somatic symptoms associated with PMS.
   
   
3. What is the suggested age to begin taking Isotonix Calcium Plus?
   Isotonix Calcium Plus is recommended for all adults age 18 or older. If we only absorb 300 to 400 mg of calcium at a time, why does one capful contain 750 mg? There are 750 mg of calcium in 2 capfuls of Isotonix Calcium Plus. Therefore, one capful equals 375 mg of calcium.
   
   
4. Why is Isotonix Calcium Plus better than other calcium products?
   It is better because of the Isotonix delivery system. The secret of the isotonic process is probably now becoming clear! When an isotonic substance enters the body, it will be absorbed into the bloodstream rapidly. With isotonic fluids, little nutritive value is lost making the absorption of nutrients highly efficient. There is nothing artificial about it. An isotonic fluid is nature's own nutrient delivery system.
   
   
5. Why is there a sandy residue left in the cup after mixing with water?
   Everyone's water is different; some tap water has a higher concentration of minerals and the pH level of water differs depending on geographic location and the quality of the tap water, which can lead to inconsistencies with the saturation point of a solution. To ensure that our solutions reach the point of saturation, regardless of the pH or mineral levels in water, we have maximized the formulation amounts so that every serving of Isotonix Calcium Plus contains the correct amount of calcium. The residue left in the cup is due to over-saturation which is common in tap water with a higher pH level or a higher mineral content.
   
   
6. What is the best way to store this product?
   Keep Isotonix stored in a dry, cool place. If Isotonix are stored in the kitchen, keep them away from the stove, sink, heat-generating appliances or window ledges. If you live in a very humid area, you may store Isotonix products in the refrigerator – but not in the fruit and vegetables area.

• Beattie JH, Peace HS. The influence of a low-boron diet and boron supplementation on bone, major mineral and sex steroid metabolism in postmenopausal women. Br J Nutr. 1993 May;69(3):871-84.
• Dawson-Hughes B, Harris SS, Krall EA, Dallal GE. Effect of calcium and vitamin D supplementation on bone density on men and women 65 years of age and older. N Engl J Med. 1997; 337:670-676.
• Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium, Phosphorous, Magnesium, Vitamin D, and Fluoride. Washington, DC: National Academy Press; 1997.
• Durlach J, Durlach V, Bac P, et al. Magnesium and therapeutics. Magnes Res. 1994; 7:313-328.
• Hussain S, Ali SF. Manganese scavenges superoxide and hydroxyl radicals: an in vitro study in rats. Neuroscience Letters. 1999; 261:21-24.
• Keen CL, Ensunsa JL, Watson MH, et al. Nutritional aspects of manganese from experimental studies. Neurotoxicol. 1999; 20:213-223.
• Martini LA. Magnesium supplementation and bone turnover. Nutr Rev. 1999; 57:227-229.
• Naghii MR, Wall PM, Samman S. The boron content of selected foods and the estimation of its daily intake among free-living subjects. J Am Coll Nutr. 1996 Dec;15(6):614-9.
• Newnham RE. Essentiality of boron for healthy bones and joints. Environ Health Perspect. 1994;102:83-85
• Nielsen FH. Studies on the relationship between boron and magnesium which possibly affects the formation and maintenance of bones. Magnes Trace Elem. 1990;9:61-69
• Nielsen FH. Ultratrace minerals. In: Shils ME, Olson JA, Shike M, Ross AC, eds. Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease, 9th ed. Baltimore, MD: Williams and Wilkins; 1999:283-303.
• Penland J.G. The importance of boron nutrition for brain and psychological function. Biol Trace Elem Res. 1998; 66:299-317.
• Reid IR, Ames RW, Evans MC, et al. Effect of calcium supplementation on bone loss in postmenopausal women. N Engl J Med. 1993; 328:460-464.
• Saris N-EL, Mervaala E, Karppanen H, et al. An update on physiological, clinical and analytical aspects (review). Clinica Chimica Acta. 2000; 294:1-26.
• Shils ME. Magnesium. In: Shils M, Olson JA, Shike M, Ross AC, eds. Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease. 9th ed. Baltimore, MD: Williams and Wilkins; 1999:169-192.
• Singh MA. Combined exercise and dietary intervention to optimize body composition in aging. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 1998 Nov 20;854:378-93.
• Singh N, Singh PN, Hershman JM. Effect of calcium carbonate on the absorption of levothyroxine. JAMA. 2000; 283:2822-2825.
• Strause L, Saltman P, Glowacki J. The effect of deficiencies of manganese and copper on osteo-induction and on resorption of bone particles in rats. Calcif Tissue Int. 1987; 41:145-150
• Sutherland B, Strong P, King JC. Determining human dietary requirements for boron. Biol Trace Elem Res. 1998 Winter;66(1-3):193-204.
• Tobian L. Salt and hypertension. Lessons from animal models that relate to human hypertension. Hypertension. 1991; 17:152-158.
• Volpe SL, Taper LJ, Meacham S. The relationship between boron and magnesium status and bone mineral density in the human: a review. Magnes Res. 1993;6:291-296
• Wargovich MJ, Eng VWS, Newmark HL. Calcium inhibits the damaging and compensatory proliferative effects of fatty acids on mouse colon epithelium. Cancer Lett. 1984; 23:253-258.
• Weaver CM, Heaney RP. Calcium. In: Shils ME, Olson JA, Shike M, Ross AC, eds. Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease. 9th ed. Baltimore, MD: Williams and Wilkins; 1999:141-155.
• Wolf RL, Cauley JA, Baker CE, et al. Factors associated with calcium absorption efficiency in pre- and perimenopausal women. Am J Clin Nutr. 2000; 72:466-471.
• Zemel MB, Shi H, Greer B, et al. Regulation of adiposity by dietary calcium. FASEB J. 2000; 14:1132-1138.