Alpha F By Universal Nutrition Overview & Drug Interactions

Supplement: Alpha F by Universal Nutrition

This product contains

• Folic Acid

  Description:

  Folate and folic acid are forms of vitamin B9, essential for health. Folate occurs naturally in foods like leafy vegetables, legumes, and fruits, while folic acid is the synthetic form used in supplements and fortified foods. Since 1998, the US has fortified cereals, baking flour, pasta, and bakery items with folic acid to prevent deficiencies. Naturally occurring folate, or pteroylpolyglutamate, has lower bioavailability (40% to 50%) compared to nearly 100% for synthetic folic acid. Foods rich in folate include asparagus, mushrooms, yeast, legumes, spinach, broccoli, lettuce, bananas, melons, oranges, tomatoes, lemons, and animal products like beef liver and kidney. Some supplements contain L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate (L-5-MTHF), a reduced folate form. L-5-MTHF, dependent on vitamin B12 for metabolism, is absorbed faster and more effectively than folic acid, especially in individuals with specific MTHFR genotypes. Studies show that women taking L-5-MTHF had slightly higher red blood cell folate concentrations compared to those taking folic acid, although long-term use results in similar blood levels and effectiveness for preventing neural tube defects.

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  Ingredient Group	Vitamin B9 (folic acid)
  Category	vitamin

  
  

• Calcium-D-Glucarate

  Description:

  Calcium is a vital nutrient found in various foods such as dairy products, certain vegetables, and many fortified items. Over 99% of the body's calcium is stored in the bones and teeth, predominantly as hydroxyapatite. The remaining calcium circulates in the blood, extracellular fluid, muscles, and other tissues, where it is essential for processes like nerve signaling, muscle contraction, vascular activities, glandular secretion, and maintaining cell membrane and capillary permeability. It also plays critical roles in enzyme reactions, respiration, kidney function, and blood clotting, and is involved in neurotransmitter and hormone release, amino acid uptake, vitamin B12 absorption, and gastrin secretion. Calcium balance changes with age: it is positive during periods of growth, stable in adulthood, and tends to become negative in older age. Calcium loss occurs through feces, urine, sweat, and shedding skin cells. In women, reduced estrogen levels decrease calcium absorption and retention, increase bone turnover, and lead to lower bone mass. Calcium supplements come in various forms, including citrate and carbonate, which differ mainly in their calcium content and absorption rates. Calcium citrate is easily absorbed and can be taken without food, making it suitable for older adults or those with low stomach acid. In contrast, calcium carbonate, which contains a higher percentage of calcium, is best absorbed when taken with meals.

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  Ingredient Group	Calcium d-Glucarate
  Category	non-nutrient/non-botanical

  
  

  Diindolylmethane

  Description:

  Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a compound found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, and kale. It is formed during the digestion of indole-3-carbinol, another compound found in these vegetables. DIM has been studied for its potential health benefits, including improved hormone balance and reduced risk of certain cancers. DIM (Diindolylmethane) supplements are often marketed as a natural way to support hormone balance, specifically estrogen imbalances, and as a 'detoxifying agent'. Supplements with DIM are often paired with Bioperine to improve absorption.

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  Ingredient Group	Diindolylmethane
  Category	non-nutrient/non-botanical

  
  

• Biocell Collagen

  Ingredient Group	Proprietary Blend
  Category	blend

  Forms

  • Chondroitin Sulfate
  • Hyaluronic Acid
  • Sternal Cartilage Extract, Hydrolyzed
  • Collagen Type II, Natural

  
  

• Ashwagandha Extract

  Description:

  Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is a herb commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine. It is native to India, and is used to treat a variety of conditions, including stress, anxiety, and insomnia. Some studies have also suggested that ashwagandha may have potential health benefits for conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. However, more research is needed. Ashwagandha is often referred to as an adaptogenic herb, which is theorized to help the body to adapt to stress.

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  Ingredient Group	Ashwagandha
  Category	botanical

  Forms

  • Ashwagandha Leaf Extract
  • Ashwagandha Root Extract

  
  

  L-Theanine

  Description:

  Theanine, often referred to as L-theanine as that is the predominant isomer of theanine, is an amino acid commonly found in tea leaves, particularly in green tea. It is purported to increase levels of GABA, serotonin, and dopamine in the brain, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety. L-theanine may also promote a sense of calm and improve overall well-being. Some studies have also suggested that it may improve cognitive function, although more research is needed. Most reported drug interactions with theanine are due to its sedative effects.

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  Ingredient Group	Theanine
  Category	amino acid

  
  

  Gotu Kola herb powder

  Description:

  Gotu kola (Centella asiatica) is a perennial herb and a member of the carrot family. It has small, white or pink flowers, fan-shaped leaves and is often found growing in damp, marshy areas. The leaves and stems of the gotu kola plant are used in herbal medicine as a natural remedy for a variety of health conditions, such as gastrointestinal disorders, amenorrhea, eye conditions, heat stroke, leprosy, liver health, lymphatic obstruction, and infections. It is not to be confused with similarly named plant, Cola Nut, or bacopa.

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  Ingredient Group	Gotu Kola
  Category	botanical

  
  

  Eleutherococcus senticosus root powder

  Description:

  Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus) is a plant native to Asia and a member of the Araliaceae family. It is also commonly known as 'Siberian ginseng' or 'eleuthero root'. The root of the plant is used in traditional medicine for its purported ability to improve physical and mental performance, boost the immune system, and reduce fatigue. It is also claimed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Eleuthero is often referred to as an 'adaptogen'. Adaptogens are believed to help the body resist stress. It is important to note that although eleuthero is known as 'Siberian ginseng', it is not related to Panax ginseng.

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  Ingredient Group	Eleuthero
  Category	botanical

  
  

• AstraGin

  Ingredient Group	Proprietary Blend
  Category	blend

  Forms

  • Astragalus membranaceous Root Extract
  • Panax notoginseng Root Extract

  
  

  Black Pepper extract

  Description:

  Black pepper is a spice made from the dried, unripe fruit of the Piper nigrum plant, which is native to the southwestern coast of India. It is one of the most widely used spices in the world, and it is often utilized to add flavor and heat to a wide variety of dishes. In traditional medicine, black pepper is purported to have a number of health benefits. It is a good source of antioxidants and is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may make it useful in reducing inflammation and swelling in the body. Black pepper is also used as a natural remedy for digestive problems, such as indigestion and bloating, and to boost the immune system. Black pepper is widely used in dietary supplements, specifically, an extract from black pepper known as piperine. Piperine can affect the absorption of many drugs, which is why it has a large number of reported interactions. Oftentimes, these 'interactions' are purposeful, such as when piperine is used with turmeric, to increase its absorption.

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  Ingredient Group	Black Pepper
  Category	botanical

  
  

  Ginger root powder

  Description:

  Ginger is a spice native to Asia and part of the Zingiberaceae family. It has a pungent, spicy flavor and is often used to add flavor to dishes and drinks. Ginger has a long history of use in traditional medicine and is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and other medicinal properties. It is commonly used to treat nausea, motion sickness, and other digestive issues. Ginger is also sometimes used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Ginger supplements generally standardize several compounds found in the root, and are often labeled as containing a certain amount of 'ginger root extract'.

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  Ingredient Group	Ginger
  Category	botanical

  
  

Drugs that interact with Alpha F by Universal Nutrition