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Data supporting the neuronal-protective benefits of blueberry keeps getting stronger.52-54 Life Extension introduced blueberry extract due to findings suggesting the fruit naturally confers health-protective benefits. Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and inflammation, blueberries may help to preserve youthful cognitive function.
Blueberries as antioxidant vitamins
Blueberries contain anthocyanins and phenolics that act as antioxidants. Based on data from the USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging (Boston, MA), blueberries are among the fruits with the highest antioxidant activity. Using a test called ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity), researchers have shown that a serving of fresh blueberries provides more antioxidant activity than many other fresh fruits and vegetables.
Pomegranate fruits contain polyphenols, tannins and anthocyanins—all are beneficial antioxidants. Interestingly, pomegranate juice contains high levels of antioxidants—higher than most other fruit juices, red wine, or green tea.
Reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory damage in blood vessels is a well-documented way to lower the risk of heart problems. Some evidence suggests that compounds in pomegranate known as punicalagins have benefits in arterial health by virtue of their powerful antioxidant and fluid-regulating effects.46
Over the past year, many members have used a formula that supplies potent doses of pomegranate and blueberry extracts in one capsule a day. This formula also provides 50 mg of cocoa polyphenols so that users of the product can easily obtain all three nutrients.
Cocoa polyphenols added to blueberry capsules
Cocoa’s polyphenols further contribute to oxidative protection in the vascular system while providing enhanced antioxidant benefits.47-51
Cocoa is full of a wide range of antioxidant compounds called polyphenols, including the procyanidins epicatechin and catechin. Cocoa polyphenols seem to be unique due to their high availability and extreme effectiveness in neutralizing free radical activity. In fact, research has shown that cocoa contains more antioxidant polyphenols than any other food.
By combining formulas such as Blueberry Extract with Pomegranate & CocoaGold™ with other products containing antioxidant vitamins, Life Extension members assure themselves of a wide spectrum of dietary protection against oxidative stress and its adverse health consequences. |