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by Matt Jarosy

Everything You Need To Know On Magnesium Glycinate

Magnesium glycinate (or bisglycinate) is a highly bioavailable form of magnesium made by chelating magnesium to the amino acid glycine. Chelated magnesium is a unique preparation method that offers increased stability, better bioavailability, and less chance of impacting the digestive tract. Magnesium glycinate is thought to be one of the most relaxing forms of magnesium, partly because of what it is chelated to, in this case glycine. Glycine (also known as 2-Aminoacetic Acid) is an amino acid and a neurotransmitter. It has a broad range of roles in the body, from regulating blood sugar to faciliating the production DNA and RNA. It is also one of three amino acids that your body uses to make glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect your cells against oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Although glycine can be both excitatory and inhibitory, many people find it relaxing on the nervous system. Studies show that higher levels of this amino acid may, help you fall asleep more quickly, reduce symptoms of insomnia and promote deeper more restful sleep. Which magnesium to use We recommend people try different forms of magnesium to see which form they prefer. Some of our customers like to take magnesium malate in the morning and magnesium glycinate in the evening. It's important to listen to your body and find the form and dose that works for you.

by Matt Jarosy

Fueling Your Mitochondria: Make More Energy

Mitochondria are membranous, slightly elongated structures contained within the cytoplasm of almost all eukaryotic cells. Using aerobic respiration, they take oxygen and the compounds in our food to make energy (in the form adenosine triphosphate, known as 'ATP'). Each cell contains the appropriate amount of mitochondria relative to its energy use. That means organs such as the heart contain a lot of mitchondria, infact each cell of your heart contains around 5000 mitochondria. When we lose mitochondria or they begin to malfunction, it can increase our risk of 'dis-ease'. It is thought that mitochondria were originally independent bacterial entities which at some point over a billion years ago (through much trial and error) entered other bacterial cells and decided to partner up. This moment was monumentous, you could argue this was the beginning of complex life as we know it. Two important cycles that occur within the mitochondria for energy production are the the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA) and the electron transport chain (ECT). Think of these like factory lines, they need to be flowing freely in order for energy to be generated efficiently. During normal oxidative phosphrlation (whereby ATP is formed by electron transfer) about 2 percent of the oxygen consumed is converted to superoxide (a type of free radical). This is where nutrition comes, anti-oxidants from our diet help to mop up the free radicals formed by energy production. Unfortunately, making energy comes with exhaust. So what do mitochondria need to function properly? Magnesium: In order for ATP be 'activated', it needs to form a complex with magnesium. B Vitamins: These are like the workers on the factory line, helping to pass energy from one cycle to another. Each B vitamin has a specific role, for example riboflavin (B2) plays a key role in shuttling electrons from the TCA and cobalamin (B12) is needed to generate s-adenosyl methionine (SAMe) which is part of the protein sub unit that makes up the ECT. COQ10: You can think of COQ10 as the oil in the factory, it helps to keep things running smoothly. It can regenerate free radicals and soothe them back into the ECT. PQQ: Otherwise known as pyrroloquinoline quinone, helps control redox processes in the mitochondrial, essentially balancing oxidative stress as well as stimulating energy production. B3: We need B3 or niacinamide to manufacture NADH (energy carrier) and to supply protons for oxidative phosphorylation. Copper: Copper is a cofactor in the ECT so that ATP can be released, it also plays a key role in mitochondrial signaling and mitophagy. Given mitochondria's role in the body, mitocondrial may be the key to unlocking the process of aging itself. According to this theory, with age, mitochondria accumulate ROS-induced damage and become dysfunctional. With time, the function of cells declines causing aging and subsequent death. Many things can induce oxidative stress in humans, including not having the necessary cofactors for making energy. Remember, making energy makes exhuast. The more we can buffer this exhaust, the better.

by Matt Jarosy

Supplements That Help Reduce Histamine: Our New Histamine Metabolism Support Complex

Histamine is a naturally occurring compound in your body, with a pivotal role in various physiological processes. It's a small molecule that plays a significant role in immune responses, stomach acid production, and neurotransmission. While histamine is essential for several bodily functions, an excess of it can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms. In this article, we will explore what histamine is, the symptoms of excess histamine, common triggers, and the enzymes responsible for metabolizing histamine. What Is Histamine? Histamine, chemically known as 2-(4-imidazolyl)ethylamine, is a neurotransmitter and a biogenic amine. It is synthesized from the amino acid histidine through a series of enzymatic reactions. Once produced, histamine is stored in specialized cells called mast cells and basophils, primarily in tissues that are in direct contact with the external environment, such as the skin, respiratory tract, and gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms of Excess Histamine Histamine plays a vital role in your immune system, helping to defend your body against pathogens. However, excessive histamine levels can lead to a range of unpleasant symptoms. This condition is known as histamine intolerance, and its symptoms can mimic allergies or other health issues. Common symptoms of excess histamine include Skin Issues: Itching, hives, redness, and eczema are frequent skin reactions to excess histamine. Histamine can cause blood vessels to dilate, leading to these visible skin changes Gastrointestinal Problems: Excess histamine can affect your stomach and intestines, causing symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and nausea. Respiratory Symptoms: Histamine can constrict airways and trigger symptoms like sneezing, congestion, and wheezing, which are often associated with allergies Headaches and Migraines: Histamine is a potent vasodilator, meaning it can expand blood vessels in the brain and lead to headaches or migraines. Cardiovascular Symptoms: Some people may experience low blood pressure and an increased heart rate due to histamine-induced blood vessel dilation Fatigue: Histamine intolerance can also lead to fatigue and a general feeling of malaise. Common Triggers of Histamine: Understanding what triggers excess histamine is crucial for managing histamine intolerance. Several factors can contribute to elevated histamine levels in the body. Diet: Certain foods are high in histamine or trigger its release. These include aged cheeses, fermented foods, alcohol, and processed or smoked meats Allergies: Allergic reactions can release large amounts of histamine in response to allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. Gut Health: An imbalance of gut bacteria can impair the breakdown of histamine in the digestive tract, leading to its accumulation Medications: Some medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and certain antacids, can interfere with histamine metabolism Stress: Stress can stimulate the release of histamine, exacerbating symptoms in individuals with histamine intolerance. Enzymes that Metabolize Histamine: In your body, histamine levels are carefully regulated by enzymes that break it down and convert it into inactive metabolites. Two key enzymes involved in histamine metabolism are: Diamine Oxidase (DAO): This enzyme is primarily responsible for breaking down histamine in the digestive tract. It's produced by the cells lining your gut and helps prevent histamine from being absorbed into the bloodstream. Histamine N-Methyltransferase (HNMT): HNMT is found in various tissues throughout the body and plays a role in metabolizing histamine in the brain and other organs. It helps regulate histamine levels in the central nervous system. When these enzymes are functioning correctly, they help maintain a balance of histamine in your body. However, genetic factors, medications, or gut health issues can impair the activity of these enzymes, contributing to histamine intolerance. Our new histamine complex uses a variety of ingredients to not only reduce the effects of histamine but also help your body metabolise it more efficiently. Including: Creatine Monohydrate - Enhancing Histamine Metabolism and Energy ProductionCreatine monohydrate indirectly promotes histamine metabolism by supporting the activity of histamine-metabolizing enzymes, such as diamine oxidase (DAO) and histamine-N-methyltransferase (HNMT). By facilitating the breakdown of histamine, creatine reduces its accumulation and helps alleviate histamine intolerance symptoms. Additionally, creatine plays a vital role in cellular energy production, ensuring optimal function and efficiency in histamine metabolism.Organic Acerola: Natural Vitamin C - Antioxidant Defense and Histamine ModulationAcerola is a rich source of natural vitamin C which is a potent antioxidant. Vitamin C protects against histamine-induced oxidative stress, which can exacerbate histamine intolerance symptoms. By neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative damage, vitamin C helps maintain a balanced histamine response. Furthermore, vitamin C exhibits anti-inflammatory properties and supports immune function, contributing to a well-regulated histamine system.L-Theanine - Calming Inflammation and Modulating Histamine ReleaseL-theanine, derived from green tea, exerts anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the activation of pro-inflammatory signaling molecules, such as nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB). By reducing inflammation, L-theanine helps modulate histamine release and mitigate histamine-related discomfort. Moreover, L-theanine promotes relaxation by enhancing alpha brain wave activity, which can reduce stress-induced histamine release. Bromelain - Digestive Support and Histamine BreakdownBromelain, a proteolytic enzyme found in pineapple, aids in the digestion of proteins, including histamine-rich foods. By facilitating protein breakdown, bromelain supports proper digestion and minimizes the absorption of intact histamine molecules. This digestive support helps reduce histamine accumulation in the body and alleviates digestive symptoms associated with histamine intolerance. Bromelain has also been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). By reducing inflammation, bromelain may indirectly decrease the release or synthesis of histamine in certain immune cells.Boswellia - Anti-inflammatory Action and Histamine BalanceBoswellia possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties due to its active components, such as boswellic acids. By inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes, including 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), boswellia helps reduce histamine-induced inflammation and promotes a balanced histamine response. This anti-inflammatory action contributes to overall histamine tolerance and alleviation of associated symptoms.Copper - The Central Atom of Histamine Metabolism EnzymesMinerals play an important role in histamine balance and copper is no exception. Copper is an essential cofactor for DAO, the primary enzyme responsible for breaking down histamine in the gut. Adequate copper levels ensure proper DAO activity, facilitating efficient histamine metabolism and preventing its accumulation.Vitamin B6 - Enzyme Co-Factor in Histamine ClearanceVitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine or P5P, plays a crucial role in the metabolism of histamine. It is a cofactor in the production of enzymes that metabolise histamine, further supporting its regulation. While vitamin B6 may not directly lower histamine levels, its role in histamine metabolism suggests that it can help alleviate the effects of histamine-related conditions, such as allergies or histamine intolerance. Bifidobacterium infantis and Bifidobacterium longum - Gut Microbiota Support for Improved Histamine ToleranceBifidobacterium infantis and Bifidobacterium longum, two beneficial probiotic strains, play a crucial role in supporting a healthy gut microbiota. By promoting a balanced microbial environment, these strains help optimize digestion and reduce histamine production in the gut. Furthermore these two specific strains have been to suppress allergic type symptoms and decrease histamine levels. Find out more here

The different types of magnesium in health

by Matt Jarosy

The Different Forms of Magnesium: Your Comprehensive Guide

Do you often feel run down and stressed? Are you having trouble sleeping at night? If so, you might be a little low on magnesium. Magnesium is a mineral that is essential for human health, and it plays a role in many important bodily functions. Unfortunately, many people are not getting enough magnesium in their diets. In this blog post, we will discuss the different forms of magnesium and their individual benefits. One of the more confusing aspects of magnesium supplements is that manufacturers will often advertise the total weight of the product as magnesium. For example, let's take a 500mg capsule of magnesium glycinate. Not all of this is pure magnesium, the majority of the product is actually what it is bound to, in this case glycine. Only a small percentage is usable magnesium. This is because magnesium needs to be bound to something to be absorbed by the body, otherwise it would get broken down quickly in your stomach acid before it can be absorbed. Here at ELIVIDE, we always list the net magnesium on our supplements so you know exactly how much magnesium you are getting. So without furtheado, what are the different types of magnesium? Magnesium oxide: This form of magnesium is the most common and it is also the cheapest. It is made by combining magnesium and oxide. It has a high amount of magnesium but It is not very well absorbed by the body as it is an inorganic chelate. Inorganic chelates are not as easily absorbed by the body compared to organic chelates. Magnesium carbonate is another inorganic form of magnesium. Magnesium citrate: This form of magnesium is more expensive than magnesium oxide and it is better absorbed by your body. However, magnesium citrate tends to have the most laxative effect. Magnesium citrate is magnesium bound to citric acid, however too much citric acid can interfere with copper metabolism so we would suggest avoiding this form. Magnesium chloride: This form of magnesium is often used in liquid forms of magnesium such as a mineral drops, made by combing magnesium and chloride. This can be a gentle way to introduce yourself to magnesium and it has a relatively high bioavailability. Magnesium glycinate: This form of magnesium is considered one of the most gentle forms of magnesium made by combining magnesium to the amino acid glycine. Glycine tends to be relaxing on its own so magnesium glycinate can be a great option for sleep. Magnesium glycinate has a high bioavability due to the protection of the glycine. Find out more about our magnesium glycinate here. Magnesium malate: This form of magnesium is made by combining magnesium to malic acid. Malate is a compound that is naturally found in fruits and it can increase energy production in cells. This makes magnesium malate a great option for people with fatigue but many people find it helps them sleep too. Find out more about our magnesium malate here. Magnesium orotate: This form of magnesium is made by combining magnesium to orotic acid. Orotic acid is a nucleotide that is naturally found in the body and it helps with magnesium absorption. This form of magnesium is sometimes used by athletes as it can help with energy production. Magnesium threonate: Threonate is a relatively new form of magnesium and it is made by combining magnesium to L-threonate. This form of magnesium is thought to cross the blood brain barrier more effectively which means it may be helpful for cognitive function, however its important to note that all magnesium crosses the blood brain barrier. Magnesium sulphate: You might know this one from Epsom salt, this form of magnesium is made by combining sulphur and magnesium. It is often used in baths as it can be absorbed through the skin. So which form of magnesium should you take? We would recommend trying different forms of magnesium to find the form that works for you. If you're just starting out with magnesium, trandermal magnesium can be gentle way to introduce your body to this important mineral. It's important to note that magnesium is a key electrolyte alongside potassium, sodium and calcium. If you increase magnesium, don't forget to increase your other elecolytes too. This way you won't upset the delicate balance of elecrolytes in the body.

by Matt Jarosy

The Implications of Low Magnesium On The Body

We’ve all seen the posts about how important magnesium is, it needs no introduction. A mineral essential to combat stress. We know that it’s involved in hundreds of enzymes but what really are the implications of long term low magnesium intake? How does it manifest in the body? In this post, we will explore how it impacts key systems. Cardiovascular system The heart needs a constant source of energy to keep its electrical activity going and that means magnesium. Magnesium is intimately related to calcium, the latter allowing contraction and magnesium allowing relaxation. When there’s low magnesium, calcium can become deregulated which increases chance of deposits in the arteries. As calcium levels rise, arterial vasospasms and constriction increase which raises blood pressure. Deficiency of magnesium can significantly reduce the membrane potential polarisation through sodium and calcium accumulation. This means low magnesium is linked to things like arrhythmias. Inflammation & immune response Low magnesium means glutathione (a major antioxidant) production becomes impaired which in turn promotes calcium accumulation. Furthermore, inflammatory cytokines (proteins involved in immune response) and interleukins become raised whic promote an inflammatory response and damage to the endothelial wall. Immune cells will not be able to function optimally without adequate magnesium, for example against viruses and subsequently this increases activation of Epstein Barr (EBV). Conversion pathways Low magnesium means key conversions in the body become impaired. One of these includes vitamin or hormone D. Vitamin D will not be able to cycle between its binding sites from inactive to active without sufficient magnesium. As vitamin D is an acute phase reaction in its storage form, that means the body will not be able to switch on its conversion during high stress situations such as during infection. Liver detoxification The liver consumes an incredible amount of energy (ATP). Low magnesium reduces the liver's ability to conjugate toxins and excrete them through ATP synthase impairment. Low magnesium is almost always found in non-alcohol liver disease. Magnesium protects against bile duct ligation-induced liver injury. References https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5783146/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5852744/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24896250/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31807559/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25048990/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29480918/