Scientists have identified specific extracts from cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, etc.) that modulate hormones in a way to help maintain healthy cell division. For instance, animal studies have shown that the cruciferous vegetable extract indole-3-carbinol (I3C) modulates estrogen hormones by favorably changing the ratio of protective 2-hydroxyestrone versus the damaging 16-hydroxyestrone. Indole-3-carbinol also induces phase I and II detoxifying enzymes that can help neutralize estrogen metabolites and xenobiotic estrogen-like environmental chemicals. Human studies support the beneficial role of I3C in positively altering estrogen metabolism. Di-indolyl-methane (DIM), a phytonutrient found in cruciferous vegetables, has been shown in animal studies to help maintain normal levels of a potentially damaging estrogen called 4-hydroxyestrone.
The glucosinolates are major constituents of cruciferous vegetables that have been shown to promote normal apoptosis and induce the expression of the beneficial gene via an estrogen-independent action.
Watercress contains isothiocyanates, but in a broader spectrum than does broccoli. The primary isothiocyanate precursor (PEiTC) in watercress functions via four specific mechanisms to maintain healthy cell division. Extracts from rosemary enhance liver metabolism of estradiol and estrone, inhibits the formation of DNA adducts, and have been shown to impede estrogen-induced growth promotion in certain tissues.
Cat’s Claw, the Amazonian wonder herb, also known as Uncaria tomentosa or Uña de Gato, has been available for years, but there are various qualities of extracts. Dual-Action Cruciferous Vegetable products contain only Cat’s Claw water extract which has naturally occurring potent compounds called carboxy alkyl esters. These compounds, not found in typical Cat’s Claw products, have properties of DNA repair and anti-inflammation, and immune stimulation. Cat's claw protects cells against oxidative stress and inhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced iNOS gene expression, nitrite formation, cell death and inhibited the activation of NF-kappaB.
The Cat’s Claw water extract material is produced through a patented aqueous extraction process which also removes tetracyclic oxindole alkaloids (TOA). TOA inhibit the activity of the other active compounds in Cat’s Claw, so it was highest priority to find a TOA-free Cat’s Claw to deliver maximum benefit.
The patented extraction process produces a standardized water soluble extract that can be readily absorbed by the body.
Life Extension has combined its cruciferous vegetable complex with a standardized resveratrol extract based on indications from published scientific literature that resveratrol may also be an effective plant extract for maintaining optimal health.
This organic whole-grape extract contains a spectrum of polyphenols naturally found in red wine, such as proanthocyanidins, anthocyanins, and flavonoids. |
