Survey
* Your assessment is very important for improving the workof artificial intelligence, which forms the content of this project
* Your assessment is very important for improving the workof artificial intelligence, which forms the content of this project
THE DOC’S RESEARCH: WHAT’S IN A STREAM DRINK AND WHY IS IT GOOD FOR ME? All of our functional ingredients are derived from natural sources and careful consideration has been given to the dosages and combination of ingredients to ensure consumer safety. Vitamins and plant extracts have been shown to start degrading within 24 hours when exposed to water and sunlight, and Stream™ is proud to be one of products on the market able to provide a fresh dose of vitamins and nutraceuticals! Stream™ is not intended to be medicinal product, but rather a fun & healthy lifestyle drink. Stream™ makes no claim to treatment or cure of any medical conditions. Here's a compilation of the docs endless research supporting the potential health benefits of our Stream™ range. VITAMINS A, C & E This collection of vitamins perform a different role in the body compared to B-vitamins. Their action is more in maintaining the health of cellular structures and functioning as anti-oxidants. Vitamin A Vitamin A is an essential fat soluble nutrient needed by the retina of the eye to maintain healthy vision. Vitamin A is necessary to maintain healthy skin and is frequently used in the cosmetic industry. Vitamin A is important for a healthy functioning digestive and immune system. Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is the most well known vitamin, probably due to the scurvy sailors who didn’t eat their fresh fruit and veggies, and of course the overabundance of controversial health claims spread amongst the public. So what is Vitamin C? Vitamin C is an essential vitamin found in the body and has strong anti-oxidant properties. It is essential to the activity of many enzymes and synthesis of hormones. Vitamin C is also needed to form and maintain collagen, a fibrous protein that gives strength to connective tissues in skin, cartilage, bones, teeth, and joints. Vitamin C is also vital in the healing of wounds and functioning of the immune system. Vitamin C in food or as supplement increases iron absorption in the intestine. Smokers and drinkers may have reduced levels of Vitamin C. What health claims are actually true? Research has shown that doses up to 1 gram per day may have small effects on duration and severity of the common cold, but not on the prevention of its occurrence (Hemila H, Cochrane review, 2007). Unfortunately research has failed to substantiate the claims of Vitamin C regarding cardiovascular health and cancer, and conflicting studies leave this area open to debate. Vitamin E Vitamin E is the generic term for Tocopherals which are fat soluble antioxidants that protect cell membranes against free radicals (oxidants). Vitamin E antioxidant properties are frequently used for skin care (youthful, toned and a clear complexion) and are found in a range of cosmetic creams and supplements. It may also protect the skin against UV sun damage. A High intake of Vitamin E is associated with a reduced risk for coronary heart disease (New England Journal of Medicine 1993). Vitamin E has also been shown to reduce blood pressure in mild hypertensives. (Boshtam M. 2002. International journal of Vitamins) and promote normal blood clotting. Vitamin E has shown to promote a healthy functioning immune system, particularly in healthy elderly people (British Medical Journal 1997). In combination with vitamin E, beta-carotene, and selenium, it is associated with a reduced risk of total cancer mortality. CO-Q10 Coenzyme Q10 is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that helps protect cells from free radicals, whilst increasing oxygenation of cells and maintaining the healthy functioning of our mitochondria (the powerhouse of each cell). It is found in high concentration in the heart, kidneys and liver and is essential in the production of ATP (energy). Levels of Co Q10 in the body are gradually reduced with age, and even further decreased levels are found in people with certain heart conditions, cancer and those taking specific prescription medications. Longevity A study published in 2003 by J Quiles et al showed a significantly longer life span in animals who received a diet supplemented with Co-Q10. Even low levels of supplemented Co-Q10 were found to protect cells from age-related DNA double strand breaks. Co-Q10: good for Cardiovascular health Co-Q10 is one of the most widely used supplements for high blood pressure and congestive heart failure, and is increasingly being found to have benefit in heart attacks, arrhythmias, and cardiomyopathy's. Here Co-Q10 helps the heart muscle cells to function under periods of stress and protects the cells against potential oxidative damage. Co-Q10 deficiency has been shown to be an independent predictor of mortality in heart failure and increased levels favour the long term prognosis in chronic heart failure. In a recent met-analysis of 12 clinical trials (2007), it was found that Co-Q10 has the potential to lower systolic blood pressure by 17mm HG and diastolic blood pressure by 10mm HG in hypertensive patients, without any harmful side effects. Further cardiovascular benefits include the antioxidant properties of Co-Q10 which favourably help control LDL cholesterol and build of atherosclerotic plaque. Further Co-Q10 research Co-Q10 helps keep Vitamin E molecules in their active form throughout the body. Deteriorating levels of Co-Q10 may be partly responsible for the age-related deterioration of the immune system. Other uses of Co-Q10 in the field of complementary medicine include treatment of periodontal disease, dermatology and respiratory conditions, rare metabolic diseases and some neurodegenerative conditions. Co-Q10 Research Summary In a nut shell, or a sesame seed literally, the metabolic effects of Co-Q10 include clean production of cellular energy. It also assists with insulin sensitivity, is a potent antioxidant and cholesterol regulator, and promotes weight loss. In terms of other physiological parameters, Co-Q10 powerfully protects the cardiovascular system and contributes to anti-ageing. RESVERATROL Resveratrol is a naturally occurring polyphenol and is a powerful antioxidant and phytonutrient found in red grape skin and high quality red wines. It is responsible for the notorious and ancient claimed health benefits of good red wine. Longevity: Resveratrol has been proven by Harvard University Medical School to extend the lifespan of human cells by approximately 14%-23%, by activating the Sir2 gene, a gene that prolongs life. Brain Function: Resveratrol has been shown to improve cerebral blood flow and its powerful antioxidant properties can be considered neuroprotective. Resveratrol however, does not directly enhance concentration. Cardiovascular: Resveratrol helps prevent blood clotting and clogging of the arteries (atherosclerosis), and protects the heart from the dangerous effects of free-radicals. It has also been shown to lower total cholesterol, whilst elevating HDL-cholesterol (good cholesterol) and reducing LDL-cholesterol (bad cholesterol). One can now understand why moderate amounts of Red Wine has been considered protective and life-giving since ancient times. Further research suggests that in acute ischaemic events the anti-oxidant properties may protect the heart against reperfusion-induced arrhythmias and free radical production. Resveratrol is also thought to modulate nitric oxide synthesis and improve blood flow through the vessels through vasodialation. Of Further Interest Cancer protecting effects: Resveratrol helps protect against many types of cancers, via its anti-oxidant effects and by inhibiting NF-kappa B, a protein that activates cancer- genes. Astounding research has shown Resveratrol's protecting effects in breast, colon, prostate, skin and thyroid cancers. L-CARNITINE L-Carnitine is a nutrient in the body that helps burn fat into energy. It is stored in the human body in skeletal muscle, heart muscle, and the brain. It is essential for transportation of fats into the mitochondria (powerhouse of every cell), where they are used for energy. Here Co-Q10 assists with clean energy production. Although there is no clear research that proves L-Carnitine enhances sport performance or weight loss directly, it has been shown to significantly reduce fat mass and increase muscle mass, whilst hosting a range of other benefits and promising trials for the future. L-Carnitine and Cardiovascular Health L-Carnitine has been shown to reduce the symptoms of angina (ischaemic heart pain), symptoms of cardiac failure, and increasing effort tolerance, i.e. exercise capacity. Lcarnitine research has also suggested that supplementation may reduce cramping of the legs and improve muscle function in patients with peripheral vascular disease (narrow blood vessels in lower legs due to smoking or diabetes). HOODIA Hoodia Gordonii is a small succulent scrub found in the desert areas of Southern African and is traditionally used by the indigenous Koi San (Bushmen) to suppress appetite. They would chew the plant during their long dry hunting expeditions, armed with loin cloths, bows and arrows, and Hoodia. Hoodia unfortunately has been aggressively marketed in its capsule form with exaggerated health claims, impure mixtures, and insufficient research, resulting in somewhat negative publicity. However, Hoodia in its pure state remains a wonderful natural herbal extract with no proven drug adverse effects or substantial side effects. The much quoted research conducted in 2001 by Phytopharm revealed that Hoodia had significant potential to suppress appetite and reduce total body fat in overweight individuals. Although Hoodia is considered safe, it is not yet FDA approved, and certain countries have banned this product due to false claims and marketing abuse, and lack of regulation. ANTIOXIDANT MIX Anti-oxidants protect the cells of our body against harmful free radicals caused by normal cellular process and external stimuli. The average daily anti-oxidant intake (from different food groups) is recommended to be around 15 000 ORACS, a level grossly underachieved by the average citizen. Anti-oxidants also assist with protecting DNA during healthy cellular turnover (replenishment of cells), and helps keep the body in a healthy homeostasis. In particular, anti-oxidants are thought to help reduce the degrading effects of a chronic inflammatory process that simmers in the 'heart' of modern day chronic diseases. The body fails to regulate this subtle inflammatory process due to abnormal levels of stress and poor eating habits of today's busy life style. This is why Stream offers to support your nutrition and anti-oxidant requirements, whilst encouraging you to take care of yourself, eat healthy, and exercise more. Happiness and longevity is a responsibility, that, at the end of the day, we all intuitively know how to honour. Stream has chosen to use a variety of naturally occurring antioxidants to ensure a holistic accumulative effect of anti-oxidant protection, through different pathways and in different organs, and ultimately supporting your growing Vitality and Longevity. GREEN TEA (EGCG) Thearubigins Epicatechins Catechins Green Tea has been used for more than 4000 years and is an acclaimed health promoting and detoxifying substance. Stream's Green Tea extract is a potent antioxidant protecting against free radical formation and oxidative stress. EGCG is also neuroprotective and neurorestorative, especially in the limbic system and hippocampus, areas of the brain responsible for memory & learning. Green tea extract stimulates metabolism and assists with weight loss, whilst reducing chances of cardiovascular disease. Further research suggests that EGCG has direct activity against certain cancer cell lines and the up-regulation of tumour suppressor genes. An interesting field of research for the future use of high dose EGCG. ROOIBOS Aspalathin Rutin Quercetin Luteolin Nothofagin Orientin Rooibos tea is renowned for its high levels of polyphenol anti-oxidants, low tannin levels and no caffeine. Rooibos also has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. Rooibos is gaining popularity worldwide and as a rare, healthy, and very pleasant tea. GRAPE SEED Oligomeric proanthocyandins (OPC's) Bioflavanoids/ polyphenols Tannins Stream's Grape seed extract contains a collection of very powerful anti-oxidants and a high concentration of OPC's. Grape seed significantly reduces the risk of coronary artery disease and studies suggest a beneficial role in reducing blood pressure, platelet aggregation and cholesterol. Grape seed has been shown to help protect the skin against damage from UV radiation. Grape seed extract may have some protection in neurodegenerative conditions. BAOBAB Vitamin C The mythical Baobab tree and its Baobab fruit is now considered one of the new Super Foods teaming with anti-oxidants and vitamins. The main anti-oxidant property of Baobab is derived from the high concentration of pure and bio-available 'baobab' Vitamin C. CRANBERRY Ellagic Acid Quercetin Resveratrol Selenium Vitamin A, C and E Proanthocyanidins Cranberry is becoming increasingly popular as a health drink and source of multiple anti-oxidants. Research has confirmed that Cranberries can prevent the recurrence of urinary tract infection in females by preventing adhesion of bacteria to the bladder wall. Cranberries may also reduce oxidation of LDL cholesterol and thereby reduce atherosclerotic plaque build-up in blood vessels. RED GRAPESKIN Flavonoids Anthocyanin Resveratrol Most of the benefits of Red wine are unique to the red Grape Skin content and high antioxidant levels. Resveratrol is one of the most active phytonutrients found in Red Grape Skin and the extensive health benefits include cardiovascular health, brain function and longevity. Anthocyanins have been extensively researched for their role in protecting DNA against oxidative stress and regulation of abnormal cells in the body that have cancer potential. GUARANA Guarana is a climbing plant found in the Amazon basin, and has been used by native Amazonians for thousands of years to maintain stamina and increase physical endurance. Gauranine - one of the active ingredients found in Guarana is considered to be a natural occurring 'caffeine'. However the psychoactive effects and energy producing effects of Guarana are not related entirely to Guaranine/caffeine. Research now supports that the correct formula of Gaurana and Ginseng has the capacity to enhance physical and mental performance, and improve mood. Example of Research Journal of Ethnopharmacology 1997 (Mice) Significant increased physical capacity - not reproducible with similar amount of caffeine or ginseng. Improved memory acquisition. Same average lifespan with low toxicity of substance. Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavioural Journal 2004 Gaurana: Only substance over and above placebo to result in an improvement across all attention tasks and increase speed of attention task performance - dosage 75mg. The combination of Ginseng and Guarana improve the speed of memory task performance. Both led to an improvement in cognition. (75mg Guarana contains approximately 9mg caffeine - which is relatively low - confirming that results are unlikely to be attributable to the caffeine content). Journal of Psychopharmacology 2006 Psychoactive effects of Guarana: Improvement across attention tasks and enhanced speed of memory task performance. Memory alertness and mood were significantly improved with as low as 40 - 75mg. Journal of Psychopharmacology 2007 Guarana is more effective in lower doses of 35mg to 75mg Vs 150mg or even 300mg (which is still a safe dose to consume). The study found, at lower doses, a significant improvement in memory performance, increased alertness, and 'content mood' ratings. The study further confirmed that the results could not be attributed to the pure caffeine content. GINSENG Ginseng is a species of plant with a fleshy root that grows in the northern hemisphere in East Asia and North America. One of their most well known active compounds are called Ginesoides. There are actually three different plant species commonly called Ginseng: Asian or Red Korean Ginseng (Panax Ginseng), American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius), and Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus). The latter herb is actually not ginseng at all, but its active compound eleutherosides, is believed to function similarly. Ginseng must be grown for 5 years before it is harvested, and pure top quality ginseng is a rare and expensive commodity. Stream commits to searching for the best quality of plant extracts and ensuring purity of mixtures. All of our functional ingredients are natural and careful consideration has been given to the dosages and combination of ingredients to ensure consumer safety. Longevity and Vitality Ginseng is well known in Chinese medicine as the 'longevity herb' - increasing energy and strengthening the body, among many other functions. One such trial involving 625 volunteers over a twelve week period included vitamins, minerals, and Ginseng extracts and resulted in a significant increase in the quality of life index. Already after only a few weeks, participants who had been taking 200 mg of Ginseng daily reported significant improvements in mood, well-being, vigor, and psychophysical performance that were significant when compared to the reports of control participants. Another significant study revealed that Ginseng gradually improved reaction time in physical activities and lung function among those 40 to 60 years old. Ginseng is considered a potent adaptogen, with the ability to both stimulate and balance the body's internal response to stress, and modify the body's adaptation to external demands. Focus: Brain Function Panax Ginseng has been shown to improve blood flow to the brain and the antioxidant properties of ginesoides are considered to be neuroprotective. In Chinese medicine Panax Ginseng is said to have the rare capacity to both stimulate and balance, and a recent systematic review (Cochrane 2010) suggested that it may have beneficial effects directly on cognition and behaviour. The extensive analysis found that ginseng exerted improvement on aspects of cognitive function (i.e. learning, concentration, working memory, reaction time), and on behaviour and quality of life (i.e., social relationships, general health). The mechanism however is unclear, and one study published in the Journal of Neuroscience Research 2001 suggested that certain ginsenosides may increase the synaptic density (communication between neurons) specifically in the Hippocampus area of the brain, enhancing spatial learning and memory. This concept was taken one step further and research published in January 2011 suggested that ginsenosides enable the hippocampal cells to function for longer periods, thus the potential and explanation for improving memory Panax Ginsing: Libido A quality double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study in 2003 revealed that men given supplements of Red Korean Ginseng (Panax Ginseng) had significantly higher scores for erectile traction, sexual desire, and overall intercourse satisfaction than the control group blinded with placebo. Particular attention was given to erection scores where a significant improvement was found in both aspects of penetration and maintenance. (Journal of Family Medicine Practice, Jan 2003). It is now common for Family Physicians to use Red Korean Ginseng to treat erectile dysfunction in men. Vitality: Cardiovascular benefits of Ginseng Ginseng has been shown to improve outcome in cardiovascular patients through improvement in coronary artery flow, reduction in cholesterol, and appropriate platelet aggregation. It has also shown improved recovery in patients with an acute heart attack. Ginseng can stimulate the immune system by improving both function and the total number of circulating immune cells. It has also been suggested that Ginseng improves glycaemic control in Diabetics through increased capacity for physical activity and possible anti-oxidant effects. INOSITOL Inositol is a tasteless carbohydrate found in certain plant derivatives. It is not classified as a sugar and contains no calories. Due to its important role in certain cellular functioning it was previously considered as a B Vitamin. Brain Function and Cognitive Performance Inositol is found in the biological membrane of brain cells and its function includes cellular responses, nerve transmission, and mediation of enzyme activity through intracellular proteins. Inositol has been researched for its potential value in degenerative cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, and other central nervous system imbalances such as mood disorders (anxiety and depression). Our drink does not claim to treat any illness directly, but such studies showed favourable outcomes and strongly suggest that Inositol plays a positive role in optimal brain functioning and cognitive performance. Cardiovascular Health IP6 (Inositol hexaphosphate-6) is a derivative of Inositol and has been shown to have beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system most noticeably lowering cholesterol and reducing pathological platelet activity. IP6 has received much attention in cancer prevention and control of tumour and metastasises - most likely due to its antioxidant and immune function properties. This is current and ongoing research and holds much promise for the future. B VITAMINS The B group vitamins play a vital role in our bodily functions, energy status, and brain function. Unlike fat-soluble vitamins, water-soluble vitamins are easily lost during cooking and processing. The body does not store excess quantities of most watersoluble vitamins, so foods bearing them must be consumed frequently. Stream uses a concoction of fresh and readily available VitB1, VitB2, VitB3, VitB5, VitB6, Vit B9, VitB12, and Folate. This comprises the entire collection of classified B group Vitamins for human consumption. Stream drinks is suitable for vegans and our VitB12 is not derived from any animal products. Thiamine (Vitamin B1) Thiamine functions as the coenzyme thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP) in the metabolism of carbohydrates into pure energy. Vit B1 helps maintain a normal healthy appetite and is important for the healthy functioning of the brain and peripheral nervous system. Deficiencies are commonly caused by poor food intake or excessive alcohol consumption. Deficiency can result in neurological dysfunction and a group of nutritional disorders known as Beri Beri. Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) Vitamin B2 is an easily absorbed micronutrient found in a variety of food substances (such as mushrooms, cheese and almonds). Vitamin B2 is responsible for the conversion of food (carbohydrates, fats and proteins) into energy. Vitamin B2 is one of the essential vitamins for growth and to maintain healthy hair, skin and nails. It also has the ability to turn your urine bright yellow. Vitamin B2 helps the body to convert Vitamin B6, Folate and Vitamin A into their active forms. Current research suggests that Vitamin B2 has a beneficial effect on the reduction of migraine attacks. Nicotinamide (Vitamin B3) Vitamin B3 exists in two forms, nicotinic acid (Niacin) and nicotinamide. Both are readily absorbed micronutrients. Nicotinamide is also essential for converting food into energy. Vitamin B3 has been shown to help with inflammatory skin conditions such as Acne. Further research has revealed that Vit B3 also promotes DNA repair of lymphocytes (immune system) exposed to radiation. Pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5) Vitamin B5 is derived from the Greek name Phantothen (meaning everywhere), and is essential for a variety of biological roles. Most importantly, Pantothenic acid plays a role in the metabolism of fatty acids, glucose and protein for energy production and is necessary for a healthy nervous system. Its research includes benefits in management of obesity, cholesterol, wound healing and peripheral neuropathy. Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) Vitamin B6 is another essential B Vitamin that helps convert food into energy. Vitamin B6 also plays an important role in amino acid metabolism; in the synthesis of neurotransmitters (such as serotonin); haemoglobin synthesis and certain aspects of glucose metabolism. Research indicates that Vit B6 may have a benefit in cardiovascular health through regulation of homocysteine levels and platelet aggregation. Vitamin B6 is also used to treat peripheral nerve dysfunction that results from the side effects of certain medication. Folic Acid (Vitamin B9) Folic Acid is necessary for healthy cell division and growth and helps with protein synthesis, DNA synthesis and production of red blood cells. It is also needed for energy production. Folic Acid, together with Vitamin B12 and Vitamin B6 help maintain homocysteine levels, explaining its use in complementary medicine for cardiovascular health. Folic Acid stores are depleted with certain prescription medications. Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) Vitamin B12 is an essential Vitamin that neither plants nor animals can independently produce. Plants and animals require bacteria to help synthesise Vitamin B12 (such as the fermentation process). Vitamin B12 is necessary for the correct functioning of every cell in the body and is important in DNA synthesis and healthy rapid conduction of electric impulses in the nervous system. Vitamin B12 supplementation is essential in certain types of anaemia and neurological disorders, and is commonly used in complementary medicine to 'boost energy' and treat symptoms of depression. (However the clinical evidence for such an energy boost remains anecdotal). PREBIOTIC A pre-biotic is a term given to a small group of substances that contributes towards a healthy digestive flora. Prebiotics are not to be confused with Probiotics which are the actual living bacteria that reside in our intestines and ensure a healthy environment and functioning mucosa. Common Prebiotics include inulin, fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), soya-oligosaccharides, xylo-oligosaccharides, pyrodextrins, isomalto-oligosaccharides and lactulose. Prebiotic research has focused mainly on inulin, FOS and GOS. It is believed that our diets are often inadequate in non-digestible carbohydrates that stimulate lactic acid bacteria (Probiotics). Furthermore there is growing evidence of how vital these microbes are for human health. Not only do they stimulate and 'feed' the healthy symbiotic microbes in our gut, but they prevent the unwanted bacteria from colonizing. Further health benefits that research has shown include: Help with digestion and improved faecal transit time Improved response to sugar absorption and utilisation (glycaemic response) Lowering of daily energy (fat) intake Lowering of cholesterol Improvement of bone health and mineral absorption Further studies have suggested that Prebiotics may help alleviate symptoms of inflammatory bowel syndrome and infer protection against colon cancer. Definition: 'A prebiotic is a selectively fermented ingredient that allows specific changes, both in the composition and/or activity in the gastrointestinal microbiota that confers benefits upon host wellbeing and health'