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Supplement Facts - RBC Life

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Rose hips<br />

Rose hips provide high amounts of vitamin C as well as important antioxidants, including<br />

bioflavonoids, flavonoids, and citric acid. Rose hips are also rich in polyphenolic compounds, which<br />

have an antioxidant effect on blood cells and the immune cells in the lungs. 150,151 Antioxidants in rose<br />

hips have demonstrated a protective effect against mild inflammation. 152 Flavonoids and vitamin C<br />

from fruits are excellent for supporting the strength of blood vessels and reducing bruises. Studies<br />

have also shown that people with joint soreness tend to improve when taking rose hips. 153<br />

Sarsaparilla<br />

This herb has historically been used to increase energy, support hormone functions, and build the<br />

blood. It is also thought to be useful for the nervous system and sexual function. 154 It has been reported<br />

that sarsaparilla may help inhibit mild inflammation. 155 One study showed that flavones isolated from<br />

sarsaparilla support the health of liver cells. 156 This herb also functions as an antimicrobial agent. 157<br />

Selenium<br />

Selenium is an essential trace mineral in the human body. 158 It is a critical nutrient for the normal<br />

functioning of the immune system and the thyroid gland. 159-161 Selenium is an important part of<br />

antioxidant enzymes that protect cells against the effects of free radicals produced during normal<br />

oxygen metabolism. Antioxidants such as selenium help control levels of free radicals that can<br />

otherwise damage cells and contribute to the development of some chronic diseases. 162<br />

Severe gastrointestinal disorders may decrease the absorption of selenium, resulting in selenium<br />

depletion or deficiency. 163 The most common signs of severe selenium deficiency are an enlarged heart<br />

and poor heart function. Selenium deficiency may also affect thyroid function because selenium is<br />

essential for the synthesis of active thyroid hormone. 160 Researchers also believe selenium deficiency<br />

may worsen the effects of iodine deficiency on thyroid function, and that adequate selenium levels<br />

may help protect against some of the neurologic effects of iodine deficiency. 163<br />

Spinach<br />

Spinach provides a natural source of lipoic acid, which is an<br />

antioxidant that has been shown to help reverse oxidative damage<br />

due to aging. Studies show that alpha lipoic acid can improve<br />

memory and learning function in aging animals. 164<br />

Spinach is an excellent source of lutein, a carotenoid that supports<br />

eye health. It is also a rich source of folic acid, which has been found<br />

to support the heart and protect against certain types of mutations at<br />

the cellular level.<br />

W H Y S U P P L E M E N T A T I O N I S V I T A L T O Y O U R G O O D H E A L T H 17

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