Glucose metabolism that is associated with abnormally high blood glucose can lead to high levels of glycation. Glycation is the non- enzymatic attachment of sugars to major molecules in the body, including proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Glycation reactions generate advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) and glycotoxin intermediates. AGEs cause abnormal and destructive functioning of body proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. AGE-associated damage is suspected in the pathogenesis of many diseases and age-related deteriorations.*

Crucial to controlling AGE formation and subsequent damage is antioxidant protection. Oxidative stress is closely related to AGE production and is a known contributing factor to many of the same health concerns thought to be associated with AGE damage. Antioxidants depend on each other for ongoing effectiveness. For example: beta- carotene supports vitamin E; vitamin E is regenerated by vitamin C; glutathione reactivates vitamin C; selenium and niacin are needed to keep glutathione effective; and alpha-lipoic acid regenerates glutathione.*

Coenzyme Q-10 (or ubiquinone) is an important rate-limiting nutrient that is a cofactor in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, the biochemical pathway in cellular respiration from which adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and metabolic energy is derived. Since nearly all cellular activities are dependent upon energy, coenzyme Q-10 is essential for the health of all human tissues and organs.*

Chromium is an integral component of the glucose tolerance factor (GTF), a naturally occurring compound of chromium, nicotinic acid, and amino acids that is essential for proper glucose metabolism. Adequate chromium nutrition is essential for the formation of GTF and the healthy metabolism of blood glucose.*

Essential fatty acids can help maintain normal cell membrane fluidity and structure which is important for adequate hormone receptor function and cellular communication. EPA and DHA acids also participate in the regulation of normal blood lipid and lipoprotein levels.*

Bitter melon (Momordica charantia) grows in tropical areas, including parts of East Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and South America, where it is used as a food as well as a medicinal remedy. The fruit of this plant lives up to its name—it tastes very bitter. At least three different groups of constituents in bitter melon have been reported to have the ability to support healthy glucose metabolism. These include a mixture of steroidal saponins known as charantin, insulin-like peptides, and alkaloids.*

Research suggests that vanadyl sulfate may have unique activity within a number of physiological systems including glucose, lipid and bone metabolism. The mechanism by which vanadyl sulfate influences various metabolic pathways is not fully understood. However, it is believed that the vanadyl ion, which is found in nearly all tissues in the body, is the active form of vanadium within cells.*

Warnings KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN. Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light.