Curcugreen™^† (Curcuma longa rhizome standardized to 88% curcuminoids^‡ and essential oils)
Curcugreen™^† is a branded curcumin ingredient made from turmeric extract which contains a proprietary blend of curcuminoids and turmeric oils. Though most curcumins have poor bioavailability, Curcugreen offers a high level of oral bioavailability in order for the body to reap the full spectrum of health benefits curcumin can provide. Curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric. Turmeric, used historically for health and cosmetic purposes, as well as a fabric dye and a culinary spice, comes from the Curcuma longa plant. Curcumin, in and of itself, has also been used to support health and for cooking. Presently the science community has shown an interest in learning more about curcumin and its possible benefits.

In studies, curcumin has shown evidence of being able to support immune, cognitive and liver health. It also appears to boast antioxidant properties and to protect the body from free radicals. Curcumin has been shown to support the production of enzymes for glutathione and its synthesis, as well as metabolism.₂ Glutathione is produced naturally by the body and has antioxidant properties. In addition to its immune-supporting activity, curcumin has been shown to support normal Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and NF-kappaB (NF-kB) levels in the body through multiple mechanisms. NF-kB is a transcription factor, meaning that it functions to support the normal formation of a specific protein encoded by a gene – specifically the COX-2 gene.₃

Curcumin has been shown to help maintain neurological health and cognitive function. Curcumin may help by promoting healthy levels of amyloid-β protein (a protein fragment) in the brain. In recent studies, researchers have linked normal levels of amyloid-β protein to neurological and cognitive health, such as memory and mood. Another neuroprotective property of curcumin is its ability to promote normal levels of glutathione, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase in the brain, which can help maintain the health of neurological tissues. SOD and catalase are enzymes that protect cells. Curcumin supports liver health and its functions. In studies, curcumin has shown to support the normal production of phase II detoxification enzymes in the liver. These detoxification enzymes promote the body’s natural defense systems and function as powerful indirect antioxidants, helping to neutralize harmful heavy metals, toxins and pollutants. For example, curcumin’s support of glutathione synthesis supports the detoxification function of glutathione transferase. Curcumin also promotes normal liver tissue. 

Broccoli Seed Extract (4% Glucosinolates)
The health benefits and protective properties of broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables are well known and supported. Broccoli seed extract is a powerful source of sulforaphane. Sulforaphane supports the normal production of phase II detoxification enzymes, which promotes the body’s normal metabolism of chemicals and toxins. Sulforaphane also promotes the body’s natural defense systems and functions as a powerful indirect antioxidant – meaning it supports the ability of antioxidants that directly protect the body from oxidative stress. Sulforaphane works to maintain healthy levels of glutathione. Known by scientists as the master antioxidant, glutathione is one of the body’s key antioxidants, and serves as a protector from free radicals and other toxins. Glutathione is also capable of recycling other antioxidants, and supporting immune health and healthy detoxification among other things. Indole-3-carbinol (I3C), a product of glucosinolates present in cruciferous vegetables, is known to support normal mast cell genesis. One important health benefit of I3C is its ability to induce apoptosis and suppress free-radical production. Numerous studies have indicated that I3C also has strong hepato-protective activity.

Selenium (L-Selenomethionine)
L-Selenomethionine provides a bioavailable form of selenium. It uses the same active transport mechanism as for methionine, one of the 9 essential amino acids that can only be obtained from the diet, and this increases the efficiency of absorption of selenomethionine over inorganic forms of selenium. Selenium is an essential mineral that is important for the proper functioning of many body processes. This essential element is a required component of the selenoproteins, which includes those that are needed to convert thyroid hormones from the inactive to the active form, and several important antioxidants. As an antioxidant, it helps control free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. Selenium is a required cofactor for glutathione peroxidase (neutralizes hydrogen peroxide) and studies show it may help to increase levels of this antioxidant enzyme. In addition to promoting healthy levels of glutathione, selenium also promotes neurological health and a healthy immune system.

1. What is curcumin?
   Curcumin is present in the spice turmeric and frequently used in Indian food. Its chemical makeup is responsible for the yellow coloring of turmeric and is its most active ingredient. For thousands of years, curcumin was used to promote health in India and other parts of Asia. Curcumin is known for being a powerful antioxidant in addition to offering many other health benefits.
   
   
2. What is glutathione and why is it important?
   Glutathione is an antioxidant made of amino acids that the body produces in the liver. It plays an important part in phase II of the detoxification process, helps protect the body against toxins, combats against free radicals and oxidative stress, and promotes immune health.
   
   
3. I’ve heard that curcumin’s bioavailability is not high. Does that mean Curcumin Extreme will absorb poorly?
   Curcumin does in fact have poor bioavailability and is rapidly metabolized – meaning it needs a little help to make the most of its benefits. Curcumin Extreme tackles this issue with Curcugreen^™†, a safe, clinically studied ingredient with excellent bioavailability so your body can better reap the health benefits of active curcumin.
   
   
4. Who should take Curcumin Extreme?
   Anyone 18 years of age or older can take Curcumin Extreme, especially those who want to support normal liver detoxification activity, help maintain healthy glutathione levels, and promote neurological health and a healthy immune system. If you are currently using warfarin (Coumadin^®) or other antiplatelet/ anticoagulant, you should not use this product. If you are using any other, prescription drugs or have an ongoing medical condition, consult your healthcare provider before using this product. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use this product. Keep out of the reach of children. Store in a cool, dry place. Do not use if safety seal is broken or missing.
   
   
5. Can men and women take this product?
   Yes. However, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take this product. Also, anyone who is currently using warfarin (Coumadin^®) or other antiplatelet/anticoagulant, you should not use this product. If you are using any other, prescription drugs or have an ongoing medical condition, consult your healthcare provider before using this product.
   
   
6. What is the recommended daily serving for Curcumin Extreme?
   Take one (1) capsule daily with or without a meal.
   
   
7. When should I start to see/feel the effects of this product? What should I expect?
   The antioxidant benefits of curcumin should be noticeable in about four to six weeks. Please remember that everyone’s body is different. For some it may take longer to notice the benefits of curcumin. You should expect to feel better and healthier overall.
   
   
8. Should I refrain from taking my medications while using Curcumin Extreme, or can I take both?
   If you are currently using warfarin (Coumadin^®) or other antiplatelet/anticoagulant, you should not use this product. If you are using any other, prescription drugs or have an ongoing medical condition, consult your healthcare provider before using this product. Your physician can properly advise you about the best course of action regarding your prescription medications. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use this product.
   
   
9. Are any side effects associated with Curcumin Extreme?
   Side effects are uncommon and are generally limited to mild stomach distress. If you have any concerns, you should speak to your health provider.
   
   
10. Are there any warnings associated with taking Curcumin Extreme?
    If you are currently using warfarin (Coumadin^®) or other antiplatelet/anticoagulant, you should not use this product. If you are using any other, prescription drugs or have an ongoing medical condition, consult your healthcare provider before using this product. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use this product.
    
    
11. Does Curcumin Extreme contain any common allergens?
    This product is free from these common allergens: soy, wheat, gluten and dairy. 
    
    
12. What other Market America products work well with Curcumin Extreme?
    Due to the multitude of environmental stressors that can cause oxidative stress, leading to multiple free radicals forming, we need a combination of powerful antioxidants to help protect all areas of our bodies. In addition to Curcumin Extreme, Isotonix OPC-3^® is another important antioxidant with multiple benefits to the body. Oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) are bioflavonoids (complex organic plant compounds) found in fruits, vegetables and certain tree barks that provide exceptional nutritional benefits to the human body. Studies have shown OPCs to be more powerful than vitamin C and vitamin E in neutralizing free radicals. Prime^™ Joint Support Formula by Isotonix^® is another product that contains glucosamine, Pycnogenol^® and hyaluronic acid to help maintain joint comfort and keep joints young. Incorporating Prime Joint Support Formula into your daily regimen can help maintain healthy joint fluidity and flexibility. You should always consult your physician before adding new supplements to your daily routine.

Sources:

1. Arjuna Natural. (n.d.). Curcugreen. Retrieved from http://www.arjunanatural.com/Curcugreen.html.
2. Dickinson, D.A. et al. Curcumin alters EpRE and AP-1 binding complexes and elevates glutamate-cysteine ligase gene expression. The FASEB Journal: 17(3):473-5. doi:10.1096/fj.02-0566fje, 2003
3. Poligone, B. and Baldwin, A. Positive and Negative Regulation of NF-κB by COX-2: Roles of Different Prostaglandins. Journal of Biological Chemistry: 276, 38658-38664. doi: 10.1074/jbc.M106599200, 2001
4. National Center for Biotechnology Information. PubChem Compound Database; CID=105024, https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/105024

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