Clinical Applications

• Helps Maintain a Healthy Intestinal Microecology*
• Supports the Natural Immune Response*
• Supports Bowel Regularity*
• Supports Lactose Digestion*

Dr. Q’s Probiotic Daily MAXIMUM STRENGTH is a vegetarian, dairy- and gluten-free, four-strain probiotic totaling 100 billion CFU† per capsule. Each vegetarian capsule is sealed in nitrogen-purged aluminum blister packs to serve as protection from factors proven to compromise the stability of probiotics such as heat, moisture, and oxygen. Dr. Q’s Probiotic Daily MAXIMUM STRENGTH provides four researched strains of beneficial bacteria, including the extensively studied HN019 strain of Bifidobacterium lactis. These live microorganisms have proven health benefits and well- established safety, and have been tested for epithelial cell adhesion and/or resistance to low pH.* To further support resistance to low pH and the delivery of microorganisms to the small intestines, Dr. Q Vitamins employs DRcaps TM gastro-resistant capsules. These specially designed, innovative capsules help slow exposure of actives to stomach acid and ensure more targeted release.*

Discussion

Supplementation with probiotics has many mechanisms of action that benefit health, including but not limited to: (1) supporting metabolic activity, such as the production of short-chain fatty acids and vitamins, nutrient absorption, and digestion of lactose; (2) adhering to intestinal epithelial cells to help maintain a healthy balance of organisms in the intestinal tract; (3) helping to establish populations of good bacteria after disruption in balance; (4) supporting immune function; (5) promoting intestinal epithelial cell survival; (6) supporting healthy bowel function; and (7) degrading oxalates.* [1-8]

Common challenges associated with probiotic supplementation are maintaining stability of the organisms during distribution and shelf life and, once taken by a consumer, survival of the organisms as they travel through the digestive tract so that they reach the target tissue (intestines) alive. To help ensure stability, Dr. Q Vitamins packages the Dr. Q’s Probiotic Daily MAXIMUM STRENGTH capsules in sealed, nitrogen-purged aluminum blister packs to serve as protection from factors proven to compromise the stability of probiotics, such as heat, moisture, and oxygen. Careful selection of organisms is another way Dr. Q Vitamins helps ensure stability. Careful organism selection, as performed for Dr. Q’s Probiotic Daily MAXIMUM STRENGTH, is also a critical aspect of supporting digestive survival. To further support resistance to low pH and the delivery of microorganisms to the small intestines, Dr. Q Vitamins employs DRcaps TM gastro-resistant capsules. These specially designed, innovative capsules help slow exposure of actives to stomach acid to promote a more targeted release.*

HOWARU TM (Bifidobacterium lactis HN019) Discovered in 1899, B lactis play a key role in the human microflora throughout a person’s life. Researchers have identified strain HN019 as having excellent probiotic potential based upon its ability to survive the transit through the human gastrointestinal tract, adhere to epithelial cells, and proliferate. [6] B lactis HN019 has been extensively studied, and its safety and effectiveness is well accepted. [7,8] To assess the impact of Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 supplementation on whole-gut transit time in adults, 100 subjects were given daily doses for 14 days of 17.2 billion colony-forming units (CFU), 1.8 billion CFU, or placebo. Decreases in mean whole-gut transit time over the 14-day study period were statistically significant in the high-dose group and the low-dose group, but not in the placebo group. [8] This level of dosing also supported other parameters of healthy GI function, as were self-reported by patient survey. [8] In another study of preschool-age children, supplementing milk for one year with 1.9 x 10 CFU per day B lactis HN019 and 2.4 g/day of prebiotic oligosaccharides supported both healthy iron status and weight gain. [9] In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled human dietary intervention study in elderly subjects (>60 yrs.), supplementary B lactis HN019 resulted in statistically significant increases in the beneficial organisms bifidobacteria and lactobacilli.* [10]

Lactobacillus acidophilus (Lactobacillus acidophilus La-14) This common inhabitant of the human mouth, intestinal tract, and vagina, is also found in some traditional fermented milks (e.g., kefir) and is widely used in probiotic foods and supplements. It has a history of safe human consumption. The L acidophilus La-14 strain is of human origin and has been identified as a type A1 L acidophilus. L acidophilus shows excellent adhesion to human epithelial cell-lines.* [11,12]

Lactobacillus plantarum (Lactobacillus plantarum Lp-115) This bacteria was isolated from plant material and is abundantly present in lactic acid-fermented foods, such as olives and sauerkraut. In vitro studies have shown that L plantarum strain Lp-115 has excellent adhesion to epithelial cell lines. [13] In addition, L plantarum is resistant to low pH conditions and survives the presence of bile at duodenal concentrations.* [13,14]

Bifidobacterium longum (Bifidobacterium longum Bl-05) The B longum Bl-05 strain is well accepted as safe for human consumption. B longum is resistant to low pH and bile salts and is well suited to the intestinal environment.*

Directions
Take one capsule with water daily, or as directed by your healthcare practitioner. Consult your healthcare practitioner prior to use. Individuals taking medication should discuss potential interactions with their healthcare practitioner.

Does Not Contain
Wheat, gluten, soy, animal or dairy products, fish, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, egg, ingredients derived from genetically modified organisms (GMOs), artificial colors, artificial sweeteners, or artificial preservatives.

• Supports Healthy Weight Management*
• Promotes Gut Barrier Function*
• Promotes Intake of Less Calories*
• Supports Reduction of Body Fat Mass*

At the turn of the 20th century, Nobel Prize laureate Ilya Metchnikov introduced the concept that bacteria in yogurt can support the neutralization of gut pathogens, which may, in turn, support longevity. Since then, the role of beneficial bacteria in human health has become well established in the literature and continues to evolve. In 2002, the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations) and WHO (World Health Organization) working group experts established a definition of probiotics as “live strains of strictly selected microorganisms, which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host.” Results of clinical studies have suggested a positive effect of supplemental probiotics on a wide range of health concerns, including gastrointestinal issues, allergies, immune support, and weight-management.*[1-7] Epithelial integrity is key to the function of the gastrointestinal tract, and according to in vitro and animal research, disturbance of this integrity appears to be linked to metabolic disorders. To address the potential effects of consuming specific probiotic bacteria to protect epithelial cells from the effects of pathogenic bacteria, Caco-2 cells were treated with cell-free supernatants (CFSs) of four probiotics— Bifidobacterium lactis‡ 420 (B420), Bifidobacterium lactis HN019, Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM, and Lactobacillus salivarius Ls-33— and by a cell-free supernatant of a pathogenic bacteria Escherichia coli (EHEC) O157:H7. Tight junction integrity, as well as expression of cyclooxygenases, were measured with results suggesting that the B420 CFS counteracted the damage done by the EHEC CFS.[8] One cannot be certain that B420 CFS would prevent junction damage by live bacteria EHEC, but the results suggest that probiotic bacteria produce soluble metabolites that appear to protect epithelial cells and positively influence cytokine balance. Awareness of the existence and activity of soluble bacterial metabolites in vitro leads to speculation whether the same metabolites are also formed in the intestine with similar effects in vivo. However, the evidence presented does seem to suggest that oral consumption of B420 probiotic may benefit epithelial integrity.* In animal research, the potential benefit of B420 in reducing high-fat, diet-induced body weight gain and diabetes was studied with results indicating a reduction of fat mass and glucose intolerance in both obese and diabetic mice. Reduced intestinal mucosal adherence and decreased levels of plasma lipopolysaccharide suggested a mechanism related to reduced translocation of gut microbes.*[9] HOWARU® Shape B420 (Bifidobacterium animalis subsp lactis B420) The in vitro and experimental animal studies discussed above-utilized B420 with positive results in improving epithelial integrity and potential for a role in weight management. These results led to the need for a human trial to validate these effects. In a double-blind, placebocontrolled study in overweight volunteers (N = 225) aged 18-65, the effects of B420 and the combination of B420 with a prebiotic fiber on body-fat mass and other weight-related parameters were investigated. The authors speculated that the underlying mechanism for reduction of body fat mass could have been related to circulating zonulin (a potential marker of gut barrier function) and C-reactive protein (CRP), speculation that had been supported by previous findings with experimental animals. Subjects were not required to make changes in dietary or exercise habits. Body composition was monitored with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and the primary outcome was a relative change in body fat mass when treatment groups were compared to placebo. Other outcomes included anthropometric measurements, food intake, and blood and fecal biomarkers. Although results indicated that B420 in combination with the prebiotic offered the most significant benefits when compared to placebo (4.5% reduction in body fat mass), B420 alone (1010 CFU/day) resulted in reduced body fat mass of 4.0% with changes in fat mass being most pronounced in the abdominal region and in waist circumference. Significantly reduced caloric intake was also shown in both groups compared to placebo, and there were no differences between groups in the incidence of adverse events.*[7] Building on the data reported for B420 thus far, investigators looked into whether changes in the gut microbiota were associated with clinical benefits and obesity-related issues. Fecal and plasma samples obtained from a subset (n = 134) of the participants in the above mentioned clinical trial were assessed at baseline, two, four, and six months as well as one-month post-intervention. Consumption of B420 resulted in alterations of the specific gut microbiota Lactobacillus and Akkermansia muciniphila. Akkermansia muciniphila, often in lower amounts in obese individuals with metabolic dysfunction, is associated with improved metabolic health. This strain supports gut barrier function and improves obesity-related markers and thus supports the probiotic benefits of B420.[10] More clinical trials are warranted to confirm these effects in larger participant populations and to further elucidate the underlying mechanisms.*

Clinical Applications

• Supports a Healthy Microbiome*
• Replenishes Good Bacteria in the Gut*
• Supports the Natural Immune Response*
• Supports Lactose Digestion*
• Supports Bowel Regularity*

Probiotic Ultra Max 350 Billion features a diverse blend of HOWARU® and FloraFIT ® probiotic strains to support a healthy gut microbiome. Each strain is well-researched and identity-verified and has been genetically characterized and properly classified for your safety and assurance. These strains were not only selected for their health benefits and complementary actions but also for their viability and stability. To protect the bacteria from light and moisture, each flavoring- and sweetener-free serving of Probiotic Ultra Max 350 Billion comes in an opaque, foil-lined stick pack.*

Discussion

Multiplicity of microbiota species is characteristic of the GI microbiome in healthy individuals, and a loss in species has adverse effects.Dietary diversity and taking a variety of probiotic species and strains are methods that help support a healthy microbiome.[1,4] Probiotic Ultra Max 350 Billion provides 18 different strains belonging to 13 different species of three different genera. The HOWARU and FloraFIT strains that comprise this formula are stable, proven, and trusted worldwide.*

Featured Strains: Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001

B lactis HN019 and L rhamnosus HN001 have been studied extensively in vitro and in vivo (in animals and humans) to establish beneficial effects and safety.[5-20] In human research, B lactis HN019 significantly decreased mean whole-gut transit time in adults compared to placebo.[8] Supplementation also had a positive effect on functional GI symptoms, as were self-reported by patient surveys. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled human dietary intervention study in subjects 60 or more years of age, supplementary HN019 resulted in desirable changes in the intestinal microflora, including significant increases in bifidobacteria and lactobacilli.[13] HN019 has also shown promising effects on parameters of cardiovascular and metabolic health. Compared with baseline and control group values, individuals taking 27 billion CFU had a significant reduction in body mass index, significant improvements in cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein metabolism, and significant decreases in tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6.[19] In a three-week study, individuals consuming low-fat/low-lactose milk supplemented with HN019 or HN001 showed increased immune activity when compared to a milk-alone run in.[10] These increases were significantly correlated with age; that is, subjects older than 70 years experienced significantly greater improvements than those under 70 years. Researchers suggest that these results demonstrate the ability of HN019 and HN001 to combat some of the deleterious effects of immunosenescence on cellular immunity.[10] Animal studies demonstrate the ability of HN001 to support natural and acquired immunity as well as promote resistance.[17,18] More recently, human studies have demonstrated HN001’s protective effect on skin health in genetically susceptible individuals.*[7,11]

Other Strains in Probiotic Ultra Max 350 Billion Have Demonstrated Probiotic Effects in Either In Vitro or In Vivo Research:

• Cause the development of inhibition zones around Clostridium difficile, Salmonella typhimurium, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Listeria monocytogenes in agar assays*[20]
• Populate vaginal tissue*[21]
• Induce moderate maturation and activation of dendritic cells*[22]
• Degrade oxalates*[23]
• Increase IgA and IgG responses*[25]
• Reduce levels of E coli and enterococcus after antibiotic therapy*[26]
• Help increase and recover numbers of intestinal lactobacilli and/or bifidobacteria*[27]
• Promote well-being in relation to intestinal cytokine production*[28,29]
• Improve gastrointestinal health and well-being when under challenge*[27,29]
• Help maintain upper respiratory health*[30]
• Alter the fecal microbiota in obese subjects*[31]
• Maintain healthy fluid balance and integrity of intestinal wall*[32]
• Support intestinal barrier function*[32]

Genetic Testing, Acid and Bile Tolerance, Adhesion

Each of the lactic acid-producing strains in Probiotic Ultra Max 350 Billion has a history of safe consumption and, based on testing,

is regarded to have excellent probiotic potential.[20,33,34] Each bacterium has been genetically characterized and properly classified by

independent labs. The organisms have demonstrated tolerance to low pH conditions (hydrochloric acid and pepsin at pH3 for one hour at 37°C), tolerance to bile at concentrations existing in the duodenum, and the ability to adhere to human epithelial cell lines (Caco-2 and HT-29). Adhesion is thought to be an important factor affecting these bacteria’s length of time in the intestines, their ability to modulate immune function, and their ability to take up intestinal “real estate” in competition with other organisms.*[34]

Many of the strains have had additional studies performed, which include testing for the following[20]:

Competitive Inhibition – The ability of probiotics to maintain a healthy microbial balance in the gut is unquestionably important to its usefulness. Probiotics produce inhibitory compounds that limit the growth of other organisms, they compete with other organisms for adhesion sites and nutrients, and they inhibit the production of toxins, among other actions.*

Cytokine and Immune Modulation – Microbiota are key elements in the body’s defense system. Cytokines regulate immune system function, and the ability of many of the strains in Probiotic Ultra Max 350 Billion to upregulate or downregulate various cytokines has been demonstrated.*

Antibiotic Resistance – Antibiotic susceptibility patterns are an important means of indicating the potential of an organism to be readily inactivated by antibiotics used in human therapy. Importantly, acquired antibiotic resistance or antibiotic resistance transfer have not been detected in any of these strains.*

Directions

Dissolve the contents of one stick pack (350 billion CFUs‡)†† into 1-2 oz of pure water and consume once daily, or take as directed by your healthcare practitioner. Consult your healthcare practitioner prior to use. Individuals taking medication should discuss potential interactions with their healthcare practitioner. Do not use if tamper seal is damaged.

Does Not Contain

Wheat, gluten, soy, animal or dairy products, fish, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, egg, artificial colors, artificial sweeteners, or artificial preservatives

• Supports Healthy Glucose Metabolism
• Supports Healthy Blood Lipid Levels Already in the Normal Range
• Improves/Maintains Healthy Nerve Function

Dr. Q’s GlucoSyn features significant quantities of key ingredients that support insulin utilization and glucose metabolism. CinSulin ® is a safe, patented, 100% water-soluble, 10:1 concentrated form of cinnamon that provides polyphenol polymers. Standardized American ginseng, green tea, gymnema, and alpha-lipoic acid help protect pancreatic cells, support insulin sensitivity, and provide antioxidant activity. Albion’s TRAACS ® patented chromium is added for its role in enhancing insulin activity.

Discussion

CinSulin ® is a clinically proven, patented water extract of cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia) shown to powerfully influence glucose metabolism. The unique, proprietary extraction and dehydration process for manufacturing CinSulin results in a concentrated (10:1) extract that minimizes undesirable substances, while retaining those that are health-promoting, such as type-A polyphenolic polymers. Cinnamon has been studied extensively for its roles in glucose uptake, glycogen synthesis, insulin action, and support for healthy blood lipids. [1,2] Anderson et al. demonstrated a 20-fold increase in glucose uptake in fat cells treated with water-soluble type-A polymers.

American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) exhibits activities that support blood sugar levels already in the normal range. [4,5] The American ginseng in Dr. Q’s GlucoSyn is a standardized 12% (ginsenosides) extract.

Gymnema Leaf Extract (Gymnema sylvestre) is a water-soluble extract made from the leaves of Gymnema sylvestre and standardized to 25% gymnemic acid. This form does not decrease iron absorption as other forms may. [6] Gymnema can enhance the effects of insulin and oral hypoglycemic agents by reducing glucose absorption in the intestine, stimulating pancreatic beta cell growth, and possibly supporting endogenous insulin secretion. Gymnema may also support serum lipid levels already in the normal range.

Green Tea Polyphenols (Camellia sinesis) protect erythrocytes from oxidative stress, possibly supporting the health of tissues that could otherwise be affected by too high levels of blood glucose. [8] In research studies EGCG enhanced insulin activity, [9] protected the pancreatic cells by reducing undesirable cytokines (e.g. IL-1beta), and reduced IFN-gamma-induced nitric oxide production. It affected genes that inhibit activation of NF-kappaB [10] and reduced the level of messenger RNA for the hepatic gluconeogenic enzymes.

Alpha Lipoic Acid is a potent antioxidant that acts by multiple mechanisms, both physiologically and pharmacologically, to support healthy peripheral nerves and maintain blood pressure already in the normal range. [12,13] In higher doses, alpha lipoic acid supports blood sugar levels already in the normal range.

Chromium: The Albion ® TRAACS ® patented process that combines chromium with glycinate and niacin increases its bioavailability and supports healthy glucose metabolism. [14] Individuals with poor glucose metabolism tend to have lower blood chromium levels. Chromium enhances the metabolic action of insulin and may support heart health, especially in overweight individuals.

Directions

Take two capsules twice daily, or as directed by your healthcare practitioner. Do not use if tamper seal is damaged.

Cautions

Wheat, gluten, corn protein, yeast, soy, animal or dairy products, fish, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, egg, artificial colors, artificial sweeteners, or preservatives.

CinSulin® is a clinically proven, patented water extract of cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia) shown to influence glucose metabolism. The unique proprietary extraction and dehydration process for manufacturing CinSulin results in a concentrated (10:1) extract that minimizes undesirable substances while retaining those substances that are health-promoting, such as type-A polyphenolic polymers. Cinnamon has been studied extensively for its roles in glucose uptake, glycogen synthesis, insulin action, and support for healthy blood lipid metabolism.[3,4] Anderson et al demonstrated a 20-fold increase in glucose uptake in fat cells treated with water-soluble type-A polymers.[5] In human studies, water-extracted cinnamon supplementation (500 mg/d) helped the body maintain healthy blood sugar levels,[6] improved antioxidant status,[7] and supported healthy blood pressure and body composition changes.*[4]

Vegan Protein Blend is a pure, sweetener-free, vegetable protein blend sourced from non-GMO pea protein concentrate, pea protein isolate, and rice protein concentrate. This proprietary blend achieves an amino acid score of 100% and has excellent digestibility. Moderately high-protein, low-glycemic foods help increase feelings of satiety and support healthy body composition, healthy blood lipid metabolism, and postprandial glucose levels.[8-10] In an animal study comparing the effects of pea protein and casein on blood lipids, rats fed pea proteins showed a significant improvement in blood lipid levels compared to rats that were fed casein. The researchers also found that the pea proteins appeared to “affect cellular lipid homeostasis by upregulating genes involved in hepatic cholesterol uptake and by downregulating fatty acid synthesis genes.”[10] These findings were echoed in a 2013 study performed in rats that tested the effects of a combination of pea protein and soluble fibers on cholesterol homeostasis and metabolism.*[11]

Inulin, a soluble fiber from chicory root, is utilized in the Perfect Glycemic Meal formulas (8 g/serving) as a low-glycemic–index carbohydrate that supports glucose management and gastrointestinal health. In a randomized, triple-blind, controlled trial, 49 females received either 10 g/d of inulin (intervention, n = 24) or maltodextrin (control, n = 25) for two months. At the end of the study period, significant positive effects were recorded on several glycemic and antioxidant indices (e.g., glucose metabolism, glycosylated hemoglobin, malondialdehyde, and total antioxidant capacity) in the inulin group when compared to the maltodextrin group (P < 0.05).[12] As a prebiotic, inulin promotes the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria.*

Benfotiamine is a lipid-soluble, highly bioavailable form of thiamin (vitamin B1) that enhances the activity of transketolase, an enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of harmful glucose intermediate metabolites in the pentose phosphate pathway.[13] In vitro research showed treatment with benfotiamine had an impressive effect on transketolase activity (454% increase from control). Researchers further demonstrated that increasing transketolase activity diverts harmful intermediate metabolites away from three of the major pathways (including advanced glycation end-product formation) implicated in hyperglycemia-induced vascular damage.[14] In addition to benfotiamine, Perfect Glycemic Meal provides a full spectrum of highly bioavailable B vitamins, including folate, as Quatrefolic, and high-dose biotin to support carbohydrate/glucose metabolism, insulin action, and nerve health.*

Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) and Green Tea Leaf Extract is included in Perfect Glycemic Meal for it’s well-known protective antioxidant effects as well as for their roles in glucose metabolism and insulin action and sensitivity.[15,16] Additionally, green tea leaf extract has been shown to support a healthy body mass index, and ALA has important roles in protecting peripheral nerves.[17] AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and adiponectin, an adipokine, are targets of cardiometabolic health research due to their roles in cellular energy homeostasis and insulin sensitizing, respectively. The effects of ALA on these targets were studied in rats fed a high-fat or low-fat (control) diet. The researchers found ALA supplementation reduced body weight and adiposity in both groups. In the high-fat diet group, ALA supported insulin homeostasis and stimulated AMPK and adiponectin in white adipose tissue.*[18]

Chromium, Vanadium, and Zinc are provided as Albion® TRAACS® amino acid chelates for optimal absorption and utilization. Chromium supports the metabolic action of insulin and may work synergistically with biotin to improve glucose tolerance. Vanadium may reduce hepatic gluconeogenesis and mimic insulin’s effect while zinc plays a major role in the stabilization of insulin hexamers and the pancreatic storage of the hormone.*