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Printable Technical Bulletin #6002 AlphaCell PM™ (54 kb)
AlphaCell PM™
Natural HGH Releaser and Secretagogue
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Many of us are familiar with the signals of advancing age:
These signals conform neatly with a scientific bell curve that predicts life’s peak at approximately 25 to 27 years, with body functions holding steady for at least a decade. From there, science pessimistically draws a steady, unrelenting decline to the end of life, approximately 78 years for the average person. |
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There
is Good News
Scientific evidence now indicates that about 35% of the aging process
is genetic. It is becoming increasingly apparent that we can control the
remaining 65%. Unfortunately, most individuals do not know the steps
necessary to mitigate the aging process. Moreover, many of our physicians
are still unaware of scientific advances.
Yet the evidence is mounting: Some people live much longer than
the expected 78 year life-span. Moreover, they look and act considerably
younger than their chronological age. In fact, science can confirm that
their biological age is far less than their chronological age. Biological
age refers to how efficiently the body’s internal
organs and repair mechanisms function. A younger Biological Age indicates
the body has the ability to repair damaged cells and systems and renew itself.
To slow or reduce aging, our body must constantly replace billions of cells.
When this is accomplished, we refer to the process as anabolic
(building up) as opposed to catabolic (tearing down). To maintain
our anabolic response, we must take control of a wide variety of nutritional
factors.
To take control, we can:
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eat a wide variety of nutritional foods, some lightly cooked and some raw.
- add nutritional supplements that insure we are providing our body with a full spectrum of nutrients and antioxidants. This has become particularly important with modern agriculture and food processing.
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take advantage of the latest “longevity nutraceuticals” that can address the natural catabolic responses that have precipitated excessive damage and insufficient repair.
AlphaCell
PM™
A Powerful Longevity Nutraceutical
Scientists at New Spirit Naturals have developed this extraordinary product
that is possibly one of the most powerful drugfree formulations ever invented
to help naturally restore Growth Hormone Production to near
youthful levels, while boosting the body’s detoxification and rejuvenation
systems. AlphaCell PM™ incorporates two important nutraceuticals,
alpha-glycerophosphocholine and phosphatidylserine, along
with supportive amino acids taurine, L-glutamine, lysine and L-selenomethione.
These nutrients have been shown to be “secretagogues” (involved
in stimulating and or releasing growth hormone).
Ingredient Information
Alpha-GPC (alpha-glycerophosphocholine)
* Note: Also referred to in scientific literature as alpha-glycerolphosphorylcholine
or alpha-glyceryl phosphoryl choline
An important physiological metabolite that contains the essential nutrients
choline, glycerol and phosphate and provides several important benefits
when taken as a dietary supplement:
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It serves as a direct precursor in the synthesis of choline which is vital in essential biological functions such as membrane lipid synthesis and methyl transfer reactions in the liver.
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It serves as a “quick supply” of choline.
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Alpha-GPC is rapidly hydrolyzed by enzymes in the mucosa of the gut, yielding free choline and other metabolites that are readily absorbed. Animal studies indicate that free choline is capable of crossing the blood brain barrier where it may be used to synthesize acetylcholine or membrane phospholipids. (Abbiati, et. al., 1991)
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It has been found to increase the formation of inositol phosphate in the brain. This finding is significant because it suggests that dietary treatment with Alpha-GPC may result in an increased rate of phospholipid synthesis, increasing phospholipids available for signal transduction in the central nervous system. (Aleppo, et. al., 1994) Moreover, Alpha-GPC is a precursor to phosphatidylcholine a major membrane phospholipid that plays an important role in counterbalancing the age dependent decrease in phospholipid biosynthesis in the brain and peripheral nerves. (Trabucchi, et. al., 1986)
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Several animal studies have demonstrated that Alpha-GPC activates cholinergic transmission (acetylation), stimulating the release of one of the most important neurotransmitters in the central nervous system, effecting the control of arousal, learning, motor activity and REM-sleep. (Karezma, 1979; Trabacchi, et. al., 1986; Govoni, et. al., 1992)
Alpha-GPC
is found naturally in some animal products and in vegetables, and it occurs
naturally in the human body. For example, it is present in small quantities
in liver, eggs and milk. Natural, unprocessed cow’s milk contains approximately
250 mg. of Alpha-GPC per liter.
New Spirit Naturals uses concentrated Alpha-GPC from lecithin (soybeans).
No animal products are used in the manufacturing process. This is of
particular importance because of the potential for viral contamination in
animal based Alpha-GPC.
Alpha-GPC is now considered an essential nutrient
Until recently, this nutrient was considered a nonessential nutrient, one
the body could substitute with other naturally occurring compounds. In one
human study, however, researchers found that choline was essential when
excess methionine and folate were not readily available in the diet. (Zeisel,
et. al, 1991) The National Academy of Science has recently acknowledged
the need for dietary choline and established an Adequate Intake
(AI) for this nutrient.
Choline serves as an essential component of phospholipids
that constitute approximately 50% of the total mass of cell membranes. It
contributes to the fluidity of cell membranes and is involved in processes
such as membrane transport, enzymatic activity and cell signalling. (Biosynergy
Tech Bulletin, 2001)
In both human and animal studies, researchers have found that age-related
cognitive dysfunction is directly correlated to functional disturbances
in cholinergic activity. (Coyle, et. al., 1983; Bartus, et. al., 1982)
Choline has been shown to potentiate growth hormone (GH) secretion.
(BioSynergy, 1999)
It has long been known that significant decreases in plasma levels of GH
accompany the normal aging process. A 60 year-old person may secrete
only 25% as much GH as a 20 year old. Many of the catabolic processes
that occur with old age, such as osteoporosis, muscle atrophy and cardiovascular
disorders have been associated with the decline in GH secretion. Although
the cause is probably multifunctional, it has been proposed that the decrease
in GH may be related to increased levels of a hormone called somatostatin,
as well as decreased levels of growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH).
In human and animal studies, cholinergic substances, including Alpha-GPC,
have been shown to increase the secretion of GH from the pituitary, possibly
by inhibiting hypothalamic release of somatostatin. (Ghigo, et. al., 1994;
Ceda, et. al., 1992; Ceda, it. al., 1991)
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Daily
release of growth hormone averages about 500 mcg at age 20, then declines
to 200 mcg at age 40 and 25 mcg at age 80. HGH secretion is regulated
primarily by the hypothalamus, which releases Growth Hormone Releasing
Hormone (GHRH) through a negative feedback regulatory process from the
pituitary to release HGH. Source: Ladley, Mark D., MD
1998 |
| Characteristics of a GH Deficiency | |
| Anabolic
Tone Reduced lean body mass and/or skeletal muscle mass Reduced skeletal muscle strength Reduced exercise performance Increased total body fat Increased abdominal and visceral fat Lipid Effects Elevated LDL cholesterol Decreased HDL cholesterol Elevated apolipoprotein-B Bone Effects Osteopenia (lack of bone) Metabolic Effects Insulin resistance (in obese people) Hypoglycemia Possible abnormal resting metabolic rate Reduced T4 to T3 conversion |
Protein
Synthesis Thin Skin Lack of collagen Decreased size of organs Decreased nail and hair growth Dehydration Reduced glomerular filtration and renal plasma flow Reduced sweating - inability to thermoregulate Reduced cardiac output (potentially) Increased vein resistance Mental Health Reduced energy Emotional instability Poor memory and concentration Depression Lack of social interaction Lack of purpose Reduced sex drive |
| Source: D. Mark Ladley, The Role of Oral Growth Hormone Secretagogues in Anti-Aging Therapy, Sept 28-30, 1998. | |
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Alpha-GPC is a natural GH secretagogue
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Subjects perform a high lactate cycle ergometry protocol for 10 minutes (P)
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Subjects given 1000 mg of active alpha-GPC 30 minutes prior to testing (alpha-GPC)
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Serum GH levels measured in duplicate using chemiluminescence assay (CIA is better than ELISAs and RIAs)
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Subjects were 3 men 28, 29, and 31 years of age, resistance trained (>5 years)
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Alpha-GPC increases GH 3 fold over exercise alone. In this study this was an increase of 40+ times over baseline
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Testing conducted by Thomas Incledon, PhD Candidate, Human Performance Specialists, Inc.
Phosphatidylserine
(PS)
A natural compound found in all cells, PS is most highly concentrated
in the membranes of brain cells which make up about 70% of its nerve tissue
mass. (Life Extension, 2002)
Left to its own devices, the brain will succumb to the insults of age, beginning
with the fourth or fifth decade of life. Full mental capacity begins its
decline as the production of PS slows to suboptimal levels. The net
result of an aging brain is cognitive decline, including the gradual loss
of the ability to learn, reason, concentrate and remember.
This vital compound plays so many roles that a shortage often creates
a variety of symptoms
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It aids the storage, release and activity of many vital neurotransmitters and their receptors.
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It aids in cell to cell communication
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It is involved in the maintenance and restoration of nerve cell membranes.
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It stimulates the release of dopamine, a mood regulator that also controls physical sensation and movement.
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It increases the production of acetylcholine, necessary for learning and memory.
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It enhances brain glucose metabolism.
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It reduces cortisol levels (a stress hormone).
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It boosts the activity of nerve growth factor (NGF) which oversees the health of cholinergic neurons.
PS
- Research Summary
Research has shown that dietary supplementation with PS can slow and
even reverse the decline of learning, mood, memory, concentration and word
recall related to dementia or age-related cognitive impairment in middle
aged and elderly subjects. (Kidd, 1999)
Study #1
In a multi-center Italian study, 87 test subjects aged 55 to 80 were assessed
for the effects of PS on senile mental deterioration. Subjects
were given either 300 mg. PS or a placebo for a period of
90 days. Improvements were noted in the PS treated group with regards to
cognitive functions such as attention, concentration and short term memory.
Behavioral measurements also showed improvements in socialization, daily
living, self-sufficiency and being more engaged with one’s environment.
(Palmieri, 1987)
Study #2
In another study, 51 patients with Alzheimer’s disease were treated
for 12 weeks with 300 mg. PS. There were significant improvements
in several cognitive functions for the treatment group compared to those
given a placebo. Differences were more dramatic among test subjects with
less severe cognitive impairment, suggesting that PS may be
useful in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. (Crook,1992)
Taurine
During intense activity, the muscle fibers in the body manufacture this
important amino acid from methionine and cysteine. Taurine
is present in the developing brain of infants in amounts four times higher
than in adults. It is such a critical nutrient that its level is mandated
in infant formulas. Animal studies have shown that a taurine deficiency
occurs with advanced age, particularly in females since estradiol depresses
taurine production in the liver.
Benefits from adding supplemental taurine to the diet:
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It functions as a neurotransmitter in the brain and retina
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It exhibits antioxidant properties, so much so that white blood cells remain inactive unless taurine is present to neutralize the radical oxygen species they generate when responding to invading bacteria.
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It aids in reducing the occurrence of congestive heart failure
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It improves heart arrhythmia
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It stimulates growth hormone production in animal studies
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It exhibits insulin-like effects on blood sugar (Compound Solutions, 2002)
A taurine
deficiency can often be traced to a vegetarian diet or reduced animal protein
intake. Taurine is not found in sufficient amounts in vegetable protein.
It is also associated with increased physical stress and exercise.
L-Glutamine
This is the most abundant amino acid in the body. In skeletal muscle, l-glutamine
makes up more than 60% of the free amino acid pool. L-glutamine
has become a popular nutritional supplement for athletes and body builders,
as well as for individuals with chronic illness or unintentional weight
loss. This compound enhances the body’s nutritional status
by promoting a positive nitrogen balance, conserving muscle mass and promoting
glycogen synthesis.
Because decreased l-glutamine levels have been observed in
many stressful disease states, experts are suggesting that l-glutamine
be classified as a conditional essential nutrient. There are
numerous benefits of supplementing with this important nutrient:
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It produces anabolic (muscle building) effects in humans and animals
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It stimulates protein synthesis
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It Inhibits protein breakdown
- It helps increase muscle mass
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It assists in exercise recovery
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It supports immune function
Causes
of l-glutamine deficiency include severe trauma, infection
or metabolic stress induced by a catabolic state or extreme physical exertion.
Lysine
This essential amino acid cannot be synthesized by the body and must be
consumed in the diet. As with all of the ingredients in this extraordinary
product, the benefits of supplementing with lysine are many.
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It helps in the absorption of calcium in the intestinal tract
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It promotes bone growth
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It is important in the formation of collagen, the basic matrix of the connective tissues, skin , cartilage and bone l It may help prevent osteoporosis through enhancing the absorption and utilization of calcium (Hass, 1992)
Lysine
and methionine help create an amino acid metabolite called
l-carnitine which, in turn, transports fatty acids into the mitochondria
where they are converted to energy. (Schoenhals, 1992).
L-Selenomethione
Exciting research on selenium during the past few years have
elevated it to an “essential” status. Some studies show that low
soil levels of selenium are associated with higher cancer rates, particularly
cancers of the breast, colon and lungs.
Soil levels vary greatly from state to state and from country to country
throughout the world. Consequently, the amount of selenium in our food sources
varies according to where the food supply is grown. In addition, most selenium
in foods, such
as flour and rice, is lost during processing. The average intake of selenium
in America is about 108 mcg. (Colgan, 1995)
Benefits of supplementing with selenium:
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It serves as an antioxidant in the enzyme selenium-glutathione peroxidase
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It helps protect cells and membranes from lipid peroxidation
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It helps protect us from the toxic effect of heavy metals
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It aids in protein synthesis, and enhances fertility and growth and development
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It helps improve sperm production and motility (Haas, 1992, p. 213)
Directions
for use: See page 1 or product label instructions.
Item # 6002 60 Capsules
†Statements in this material have not been evaluated
by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose,
treat, cure or prevent any disease. If you have serious health problems,
contact your doctor before using this of any other product.
References
Abbiati, C, Rondi, G, Rosola, R, Vavassori, F, Bosio, A, Nootropic Therapy
and Cerebral Aging. Advances in Therapy, 8:6 1991: 268-276.
Aleppo, G, Nicoletti, F, Sorino, M A, Casabona, G, Scapagnini, U, Canonico,
P L, Chronic L-alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine increases inositol
phosphate formation in brain slices and neuronal cultures. Pharmacol Toxicol,
Feb: 74(2) 1994:95-100.
Bartus, R T, Dean R L, Beer, B, Lippa, A, The Cholinergic Hypothesis of
Geriatric Memory Dysfunction, Science: 217 1982: 408-417.
BioSynergy Technical Bulletin, 2001.
BioSynergy Technical Bulletin, The Mind Issue, Alpha-GPC, 4: Spring 1999.
Ceda, G P, Ceresini, G, Denti, L, Magnani, D, Marchini, L, Valenti, G, Hoffman,
A R, Effects of cytidine 5 - diphosphocholine administration on basal and
growth hormone-releasing hormone- induced growth hormone secretion in elderly
subjects. Acta Endocrinol (Copenh) May: 124:5 1991:516-520.
Ceda, G P, Ceresini, G, Denti, L, Marzani, G, Piovani, E., Banchini, A.,
Tarditi, E., Valenti, G., Alpha glyceryl phosphorylcholine administration
increases the GH response to GHRH of young and elderly subjects. Horm Metab
Res. March: 24(3) 1992:119-121.
Colgan, Michael, The New Nutrition, Medicine for the Millennium. Apple Publishing,
1995:96.
Coyle, J R, Price, D L, Delong, M R, Alzheimer’s Disease., A disorder
or cortical cholinergic innervation, Science 219 1983:1184-1190.
Crook, T, et. al., Effects of PS in Alzheimer’s Disease. Psychopharmacol
Bull. 28:1 1992:11-66,
Ghigo, E, Ceda, G P, Valcavi, R, Groffi, S, Zini, M, Mucci, M, Valerti,
G, Cocchi, D, Muller, E E, Camanni, F, Low Doses of either intravenously
or
orally administered arginine are able to enhance growth hormone response
to growth hormone releasing hormone in elderly subjects. J.
Endocrinol Invest. , Feb 17:2 1994:113-117.
Govini, S, Lopez, C M, Battaini, F, Trabucci, M, Chromic treatment with
an acetylcholine synthesis precursor, alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine, alters
brain
parameters linked to cholinergic transmission and passive avoidance behavior.
Drug Development Research, 26:4 1992:439-447.
Hass, Elson, M., Staying Healthy with Nutrition, Celestial Arts, Berkley,
Ca. 1992:213.
Karezma, A G, 1979 Overview: Cholinergic drugs and behavior - what effects
may be expected from a cholinergic diet. In Nutrition and the Brain, ed.
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Barbeau, J Grouden, R Wurtman, New York Review 5:141-75.
Kidd, A Review of Nutrients and Botanicals in the Integrative management
of Cognitive Dysfunction. Alternative Medical Rev. June: 4:3 1999;44-61.
Palmieri, G, et. al. Double-blind controlled trial of phosphatidylserine
in patients with senile mental deterioration, Cln. Trials J. 24 1987:73-83.
Schoenhals, Kim, Performance Nutrition, Nutritional Products Industry Insider
May 2002:48.
Trabucchi , M, Govoni, S, Battaini, F, Changes in the interaction between
CNS Cholinergic and dopaminergic neurons induced by L-alphaglycerylphosphorylcholine,
a cholinomimetic drug. Farmaco Edizone Scientifica, 41:4 1986: 323-334
Zeisel, S H, DaCosta, K A, Franklin, P D, Alexander, E A, Lamont, J T, Sheard,
N F, Beiser, A, Choline, An Essential Nutrient for Humans, The
BASEB Journal, Apr 5:7 1991:2093-2098.