SHLDR By Loomis Enzymes Overview & Drug Interactions

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.

Magnesium is a mineral that is essential for the proper functioning of the body. It plays a role in many important physiological processes, including the contraction and relaxation of muscles, the transmission of nerve impulses, and the regulation of blood pressure. Magnesium is found in a variety of foods, including leafy green vegetables, nuts, and grains, and it is also available as a dietary supplement. There are several different forms of magnesium that are available as supplements, all of which can be used to prevent deficiency. Additionally, magnesium is purported to have several different health benefits, such as improving sleep, reducing muscle cramps, reducing anxiety, and preventing or treating migraines. Although magnesium is essential for health, magnesium-containing foods and supplements can interact with some prescription medications if used at the same time.

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is a plant native to the Mediterranean region and western Asia. The seeds have a nutty, slightly bitter taste and are commonly used in different types of cuisine. The leaves, which are known as "methi," are used in cooking as well. In addition to its use as a spice and herb, fenugreek has a long history of use in traditional medicine. Some studies have suggested that fenugreek may have potential health benefits, including the ability to lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes, improve cholesterol levels, and reduce inflammation. It may also have potential benefits for women who are breastfeeding, as it is thought to increase milk production and improve the quality of breast milk.

Artichoke (Cynara scolymus) is a perennial plant native to the Mediterranean region that is known for its edible flower buds. Artichokes are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and other nutrients. Artichoke has a history of use in traditional medicine, and studies show it may have a mild cholesterol-lowering effect and has also been used for gastrointestinal problems, such as heartburn and constipation. Although several parts of the artichoke have been used medicinally, for its use in dietary supplements, a standardized leaf extract is often used.

Beetroot is a type of root vegetable belonging to the Chenopodiaceae family. It is commonly consumed as a food and utilized as a dietary supplement. Beetroot supplements are purported to have a number of potential health benefits, including lowering blood pressure by increasing the production of nitric oxide, improving exercise performance, and reducing inflammation. Dietary supplements containing beetroot are generally in powdered form, and are sometimes standardized by their nitrate content.

Hawthorn is a shrub native to Europe, Asia, and North America. It is a member of the rose family and is known for its thorny branches and small, white or pink flowers, which bloom in the spring. The fruit, called a haw, is a small red berry that is edible and often used in traditional medicine. Hawthorn has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including gastrointestinal discomfort, heart disease, high blood pressure, and chest pain. For its purported blood pressure-lowering abilities, it is thought to work by dilating blood vessels and improving blood flow to the heart. Hawthorn dietary supplements are typically standardized extracts of the berry, leaf and flower of the plant.

Garlic (Allium sativum) is a popular culinary herb native to central Asia, but is now widely cultivated. It is a member of the onion family and is known for its pungent smell and flavor. In addition to its culinary use, it has been used medicinally to treat a variety of conditions, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and infections.

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) is a tree native to Asia and is known for its distinctive fan-shaped leaves. The extract of the ginkgo leaf is commonly used in traditional medicine and is one of the most popular dietary supplements consumed worldwide. Its most common use is to help improve memory and cognitive function.

Ascophyllum nodosum is a species of brown seaweed that inhabits the shorelines of various regions including the Canadian Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, Europe, the northeastern United States, and the eastern coast of Canada. In many areas, this seaweed has become a protected species in an effort to prevent overharvesting. Ascophyllum nodosum boasts a rich nutrient profile, containing polysaccharides like fucoidans and laminarin, and an array of vitamins and minerals, including iodine. Furthermore, this seaweed is notable for carrying phlorotannins, a substance found exclusively in brown seaweed, as well as a variety of fatty acids. These include oleic acid, saturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids of both the omega-3 and omega-6 varieties.

Rosemary is an aromatic shrub native to the Mediterranean region. It is a popular ingredient in cooking, used to add flavor to a variety of dishes. Rosemary is used in traditional medicine for its purported antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and memory-enhancing properties. It is also used for aromatherapy.

German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is a plant species in the Asteraceae family and is native to Europe and Asia. German chamomile is a popular herbal remedy and is often used in teas, tinctures, and other preparations for its calming and digestive properties. German chamomile has Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status in the United States.