A Review of Proleva

Proleva is a supplement comprised of several highly potent forms of antioxidants; molecules known to inhibit the oxidation of other molecules. Such oxidation reactions have been known to produce free radicals within the human body. Free radicals are unpaired electrons with atoms, molecules, or ions which form an 'open-shell' configuration. They are thought to be responsible for degenerative diseases and cancers. Antioxidants are believed to inhibit certain oxidant reactions as well as terminate existing reactions by removing free radical intermediates.

While antioxidants are typically found in whole foods, many people do not consume daily, enough antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables to supplement their needs. Many dietary experts even claim that it is nearly impossible for individuals to meet their daily requirements for antioxidants through food alone. Supplements, such as Proleva, can provide an easy to ingest source of a person's daily intake of antioxidants. Proleva provides a concentrated combination of derivatives from eight specific foods known worldwide for their antioxidant properties. Ingredients obtained through the Proleva supplement include goji berries, green tea extract, oregano, pomegranates, noni, resveratrol, acai, and mangosteen.

Goji berries grow wild in the countries of China and Tibet within the Himalayas. According to certain studies, goji berries contain five times more vitamin C than oranges. It is believed to protect the liver, help eyesight, strengthen legs, improve sexual function and fertility, boost the immune system, improve circulation, and promote longevity. They are rich in the antioxidants beta-carotene and zeaxanthin.

Green tea is believed to have been used in China now for over 4,000 years. In 1994 it was published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute that new research suggested that green tea reduced the risk of esophageal cancer in Chinese subjects by nearly 60%. Research suggests green tea extract, contains EGCG, also known as polyphenol, a compound shown to improve both memory and brain function.

Oregano is a perennial herb native to western and southwestern Eurasia and the Mediterranean. It is known for being high in antioxidant activity due to its large concentration of phenolic acids and flavonoids. In addition to antioxidants, oregano has also demonstrated antimicrobial activity as well against food-borne pathogens. Proleva itself contains a specialized species of oregano known as origanum vulgare.

Pomegranates and Acia both include a range of antioxidants known as polyphenols, such as tannins and anthocyanins. Pomegranates are thought to improve circulation, prevent plaque buildup in blood vessels, and slow prostate cancer development as well assist in repairing DNA damage that can lead to cancer. Acia is native to South America and the berry itself contains higher levels of antioxidants than cranberries, oranges, and apples, however less than concord grapes, blueberries, and black cherries.

Noni is a fruit grown in Polynesia. It is used medicinally for its ability to enhance the immune system and boost stamina. Proleva claims this fruit also improves skin appearance as well as digestive health.

Resveratrol is an antioxidant found most commonly in red wine. It contains anti-inflammatory properties and has also been shown to prevent blood clots by opening up blood vessels and keeping them pliable. Resveratrol is as many as 10 to 20 more potent than vitamin E when it comes to protecting against LDL oxidation and also helps to lower cholesterol.

Mangosteen is native to Southeast Asia and is said to contain phytochemicals and primarily xanthones. Xanthone extracts such as garcinol and mangostin, provide anti-inflammatory agents with evidence suggesting qualities that would inhibit carcinogens and cyclo-oxygenase enzymes.

Proleva itself aims at using its arsenal of antioxidant powers to reduce or improve the harmful effects of aging accrued by the human body from pollution, disease, and exposure to harmful chemicals. It has been shown that just two daily capsules of Proleva provides more than twice the antioxidant benefits of consuming 100g of blueberries. According to a recent Oxygen Radical Absorbent Capacity test (ORAC), to simply match the free radical neutralizing power of two Proleva capsules a day, an individual would need to ingest three-quarters of a kilogram of antioxidant-rich super foods daily.

Michael Stanford is a freelance writer in the nutritional industry. He has contributed research on many of the top supplemental treatments available today, as well as serving as a consultant to the supplement industry. For more information visit http://www.supplementnews.org/Proleva/Proleva