About... The Digestive / Intestinal Support Formulas

Bile Salts

Bile acids are essential for the emulsification of dietary fats and fat-soluble vitamins to ensure optimal digestion and absorption of these nutrients (Curr Opin Pediatr 1993;5:562-566). Bile salt replacement has improved digestion in patients with surgically removed gallbladders (Ann Ital Chir 1993;64:533-7) and other disorders of bile acid production (Hepatology 1999;29:644-7).

Hydrochloric Acid

HCl maintains the acidic environment of the stomach, which facilitates the proteolytic effects of pepsin. HCl is needed to control colonization of the upper digestive tract by microorganisms (Ann Intern Med 1973;78:271-6). Low HCl production has been linked with various common disorders such as food allergy (Eur J Pediatr 1980;134:249-54) and gallstones (Lancet 1967;i:413-5). HCl is important for the optimum absorption of nutrients such as iron (J Lab Clin Med 1978;92: 108-16), vitamin B12 (Postgrad Med 1990; 88:147-150), and beta-carotene (Am J Clin Nutr 1996;64:622-6).

Pancreatic Enzymes

Pancreatic enzymes are the primary oral agents used for restoring normal pancreatic digestive activity (Gastroenterol Clin North Am 1999; 28:695-707). Pancreatic enzymes support optimum digestion even in otherwise healthy people (Dig Dis Sci 1999; 44:1317-21).

CapriPlus

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Fatty acids and botanicals for fungal control

Product # 9105

120 tablets

tablets

CapriPlus is a natural mycostatic complex providing a broad spectrum of high potency antifungal nutrients with anti-Candida albicans specificity. Caprylic acid and sorbic acid are fatty acids demonstrated to control both the yeast and fungal forms of this organism. Odorless garlic is included for its widely-researched anti-fungal properties. Oil of oregano contains a complex mixture of highly active terpenoids and phenolic compounds known to exert strong antimicrobial activity. Importantly, CapriPlus tablets are enterically coated for optimal intestinal release and patient compliance.

• Caprylic acid has long been know as an effective inhibitor of Candida albicans in the human intestinal tract without undesirable side effects (Arch Intern Med 1954, pp. 55-60).
• Sorbic acid is another agent with anti-Candida activity (J Appl Bacteriol 1983;54:383-9) that has lowered intestinal yeast counts in animal studies (Poult Sci 1985;64:832-40).
• Oil of oregano has been identified as one of the most potent antifungal essential oils ever tested, superior to both tea tree oil and caprylic acid (Antimicrob Chemother 1998;42:591-5); J Applied Nutr 1995;47:96-102).
• Garlic, another potent antifungal agent, has been shown effective for inhibiting intestinal Candida growth in animal studies (Br Vet J 1980;136: 448-51).

Supplement Facts Serving Size - 4 Tablets* Servings per container 30
Amount per serving:		%DV
Garlic A-8000 (Allium sativum)	1200 mg	†
Caprillic Acid	600 mg	†
Sorbic Acid (potassium sorbate)	600 mg	†
Oil of Oregano (Oreganum vulgare)**	300 mg	†
† Daily Value (DV) not established

* Enterically coated tablets
** 4:1 extract yielding 2% essential oils

Other ingredients: magnesium stearate, silicon, cellulose

Suggested use for adults:

• Four tablets divided over one day, taken on an empty stomach, or as directed.

DuoZyme

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Complete digestive support from HCl, pancreatic enzymes and bile salts

Product # 3103

90 capsules

gelatin

Product # 3104

180 capsules

gelatin

Proper digestion requires both a gastric phase supplying hydrochloric acid and pepsin, and an alkaline duodenal phase supplying protease, amylase, and lipase enzymes. DuoZyme provides all of these factors in a single, convenient, high potency capsule delivery system.

DuoZyme utilizes the technologically superior enzyme-release system which was favorably evalutated by Dr. David Graham in An Enteric-Coated Pancreatic Enzyme Preparation That Works (Dig Dis Sci 1979;24:906-9).

• Refer to About...Bile Salts, Hydrochloric Acid and Pancreatic Enzymes as listed at the top of this page.
• DuoZyme contains the acidulants betaine HCl and glutamic HCl, which help acidify gastric contents, creating a favorable environment for the proteolytic action of pepsin.
• Pancreatin and ox bile extract, contained in pH-sensitive microspheres, supplement the natural secretions of the pancreas and liver, and promote the intestinal phase of digestion.
• pH-sensitive microspheres typically provide a more effective means for delivering intact enzymes to the small intestine to reduce malabsorption of macronutrients (Dig Dis Sci 1979; 24:906-9).

Supplement Facts Serving Size - 2 capsules Servings per container 45 or 90
Amount per serving:		%DV
Gastric Phase:
Betaine HCl (gastric phase)	300 mg	†
Glutamic HCl (gastric phase)	300 mg	†
Papain (enzyme blend) (gastric phase)	100 mg	†
Pepsin (enzyme blend) (1:15,000)* (Equal to 100 mg of 1:3,000 strength pepsin) (gastric phase)	40 mg	†
Duodenal Phase:
Pancreatin (6x conc.)* (duodenal phase)	300 mg	†
Ox Bile Extract* (duodenal phase)	120 mg	†
† Daily Value (DV) not established

* from FDA approved BSE-free freeze-dried source

Other ingredients: capsule (gelatin), silica, stearic acid (vegetable source), magnesium stearate (vegetable source), maltodextrin

Each serving provides at least the following:

• Protease 45,000 USP Units
• Amylase 45,000 USP Units
• Lipase 7,500 USP Units

Suggested use for adults:

• Two or more capsules, taken with meals, or as directed.
  Warning: Patients with active peptic ulcer should use HCl products with caution.

FiberPro

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Multi-source fiber blend for optimum gastrointestinal and metabolic function

Product # 3105

12 oz./336 gms.

powder

Inadequate dietary fiber is common in the typical Western diet, leading to undesirable health effects on not only gastrointestinal function, but also aspects of cardiovascular, glucose tolerance, and immune system function, as well as weight control. FiberPro provides an array of fiber sources representing all of the important functions of this phytonutrient. FiberPro is also enriched with fructooligosaccharides (FOS), specific prebiotic carbohydrates which are used preferentially by beneficial intestinal bacteria such as Bifidobacteria.

• FiberPro provides an array of food fibers, including those with soluble, insoluble, viscous, and fermentable properties, each of
  which confers valuable health effects (Proc Nutr Soc 2003;62:37-43).
• Soluble fibers retard the absorbency of dietary carbohydrates, thus aiding in the regulation of blood sugar and insulin (J Am Diet Assoc 1987;87: 1189-97).
• Soluble fibers bind bile acids and inhibit the absorption of dietary cholesterol, both of which contribute to the regulation of blood cholesterol and lipids (Am J Clin Nutr 1999;69: 30-42).
• Insoluble fibers act as peristaltic stimulants, hastening evacuation, regulating bowel function and reducing bowel transit time, which minimizes the exposure of colonic epithelium to potentially toxic chemicals (Basic Life Sci 1993;61:45-63).
• Special fructooligosaccharide carbohydrates nourish beneficial intestinal microorganisms for optimal ecological balance, cellular health, and immunomodulation in the gut (Biofactors 2004;21:89-94).
• Gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) and other components of the gut immune system are favorably influenced by interaction with fiber components or with the organisms they support (Br J Nutr 2002;87:S221-30) .
• FiberPro’s neutral-tasting granules mix readily with water or juice.

Supplement Facts Serving Size - 10 gm (2 teaspoons) Servings per container 34
Amount per serving:		%DV
Calories	10	<1%
Calories from fat	0	0%
Total fat	0	0%
Saturated fat	0	0%
Cholesterol	0	0%
Sodium	0	0%
Total Carbohydrate	8 mg	3%
Dietary fiber*	6 g	24%
Sugars	1 g
† Daily Value (DV) not established		†

• As approximately: Soluble fiber 60%, Insoluble fiber 40%

  *FiberPro Proprietary Blend from psyllium husk (blond), oat fiber, guar gum, rice bran, beet fiber, soy fiber, apple fiber, flax fiber, fructooligosaccharides, aloe vera concentrate, and dried plum. Flavored with fructose.

Suggested use for adults:

• Two teaspoons (approximately 10 grams) 1-4 times daily added to 8 oz. water, or to 1 oz. juice plus 7 oz. water. Stir vigorously and drink immediately. Children, 1/2 adult dosage.

Caution: Abrupt increases in dietary fiber may cause discomfort. Begin with the lowest dose for at least the first week to allow the body to adjust to the increased fiber intake. Plenty of liquids should be consumed while taking any fiber supplement.

GastroCare

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Botanicals and zinc in chewable tablets for upper GI health

Product # 5127

100 Chewable tablets

tablet

Symptoms of upper gastrointestinal discomfort are among the most common patient complaints. Supporting the healing process of esophageal, gastric, and abdominal tissues requires more than just treating symptoms. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is rich in flavonoids and chalcones, among other constituents, that favorably yet safely influence mucosal health by a number of mechanisms. Slippery elm bark contains a mucilage component with soothing properties ideally suited for protecting the tissues of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Zinc has several functions essential for healing disturbed tissues, including those of the upper digestive tract. These therapies are combined in a pleasant-tasting chewable tablet, since capsules do not allow the development of the soothing coating action required for maximal effectiveness.

• Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) contains flavonoids and chalcones exhibiting multiple protective effects on gastric mucosal tissues (Comp Biochem Physiol 1996;113C:17-21; Planta Med 1992;58:389-93; Eur J Pharmacol 1981;72:219-25), but it is free of potentially hazardous glycyrrhizin that occurs naturally in licorice (Food Chem Toxicol 1993;31:303-12).
• DGL has repeatedly demonstrated effectiveness in supporting normal growth and repair processes in the upper digestive tract according to controlled human trials (Gut 1985; 26:599-602; Gut 1982;23:545-51).
• The topical benefits of DGL (J Assoc Phys India 1989;37:647) and the clinical failure of forms that did not interact with saliva (Gut 1978;19:779-82; Practitioner 1975;215:787-92) emphasize the necessity of a chewable DGL tablet.
• Slippery elm bark contains a mucilage component with soothing properties ideally suited for protecting the tissues of the upper gastrointestinal tract.
• Zinc has several functions essential for healing, and has significantly improved growth and repair processes in the upper digestive tract compared with placebo in double-blind research (Med J Aust 1975;2:793-6).

Supplement Facts Serving Size - 2 Chewable Tablets Servings per container 50
Amount per serving:		%DV
Zinc (citrate)	5 mg	33%
Copper (citrate chelate)	200 mcg	10%
Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice Extract (DGL)*	300 mg	†
Slippery Elm (Ulmus fulva)	200 mg	†
† Daily Value (DV) not established

* Standardized to 1-2% glycyrrhizin per dose

Other ingredients: fructose, natural licorice flavoring, stearic acid, magnesium stearate, silicon dioxide

Suggested use for adults:

• 2 chewable tablets 30 minutes before meals, three times daily, or as directed.

Ginger-B6

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Combination formula for digestive system comfort

Product # 5107

120 capsules

Maintaining digestive system comfort is a challenge during pregnancy, while traveling in cars and boats, or after receiving surgical anesthesia or other medical treatments. Ginger root is a pungent and traditionally popular remedy for preventing disturbances of this type and has been the subject of several successful clinical trials as well. Ginger possesses other useful properties related to blocking production of certain prostaglandins and other eicosanoids. Pyridoxine (vitamin B6) has long been used during pregnancy for maintaining digestive system comfort.

• Ginger root contains physiologically active compounds, such as the aromatic constituents zingiberene and bisabolene, and the pungent gingerols and shogaols.
• Ginger root is a useful remedy for maintaining gastrointestinal comfort during travel (Acta Otolaryngol 1988; 105:45-9), pregnancy (Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 1990;38:19-24), chemotherapy (Dermatol Nurs 1995; 7:242–4), and after surgical anesthesia (Anaesthesia 1995;23:449-52).
• Pyridoxine (vitamin B6) has effectively helped maintain digestive system comfort during pregnancy (Am J Obstet Gynelol 1995;173:881-4).
• Ginger root also enhances digestion by promoting effective gastrointestinal motility (Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther 1999;37:341-6).
• Ginger inhibits the synthesis of 2-series prostanoids without harming the gastrointestinal tract, unlike aspirin and conventional NSAIDS (Am J Chinese Med 1989;17:51-6). This may allow ginger to have significant platelet-dampening effects that protect vascular health (Prostagland Leukotrienes Essential Fatty Acids 1997;56:379-84) as well as soothing effects in joint tissue (Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2000;8:9-12).

Supplement Facts Serving Size - 1 Capsule Servings per container 120
Amount per serving:		%DV
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine HCI)	25 mg	1250%
Ginger Root (Zingiber officinale)	250 mg	†
† Daily Value (DV) not established

Other ingredients: vegetarian capsule, cellulose, magnesium stearate

Suggested use for adults:

• 1-2 capsules twice daily, or as directed.

HCl-Pepsin

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Supportive factors for optimal gastric function

Product # 3106

100 capsules

Secretion of hydrochloric acid diminishes with age, and older adults have low stomach acid. Hypochlorhydria and achlorhydria are associated with faulty digestion, impaired absorption of several vitamins and minerals, excessive absorption of food antigens, and disruptions of intestinal pH that unfavorably impact populations of gut flora. HCl-Pepsin provides betaine and glutamic hydrochloride which release hydrochloric acid at a rate which approximates that of normal physiological secretion.

• HCl-Pepsin contains betaine HCl and glutamic HCl which help acidify the gastric contents, creating a favorable environment for the proteolytic action of pepsin.
• Pepsin initiates protein digestion after a meal, facilitating the complete digestion and absorption of this important macronutrient.

Supplement Facts Serving Size - 1 Capsule Servings per container 100
Amount per serving:		%DV
Gastric Phase:
Betaine HCl (gastric phase)	550 mg	†
Pepsin (1:3000)* (gastric phase)	175 mg	†
Glutamic Acid HCI (gastric phase)	100 mg	†
† Daily Value (DV) not established

*from FDA approved BSE-free, freeze-dried sources

Other ingredients: vegetable stearine, rice flour

Warning: patients with active peptic ulcer should use HCl products with caution.

Suggested use for adults:

• One or more capsules, taken with meals, or as directed.

Herbal G.I.

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Herbal formula based on the time-honored Robert’s naturopathic formula

Product # 5113

120 tablets

tablets

Herbal G.I. contains an array of herbs traditionally used by naturopathic physicians to maintain healthy gastrointestinal function. Derived from the naturopathic pharmacopeia, the formula provides herbs and nutrients which soothe and restore disturbed mucous membranes of the GI tract.

• Herbal G.I. contains a group of herbs traditionally used by naturopathic physicians to maintain healthy gastrointestinal function.

Supplement Facts Serving Size - 1 Tablet Servings per container 120
Amount per serving:		%DV
Marshmallow (Althea officinalis)	100 mg	†
Cranesbill (Geranium maculatum)	100 mg	†
Slippery Elm (Ulmas fulva)	100 mg	†
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)	100 mg	†
Aloe vera powder (200:1 conc.)	100 mg	†
Cabbage (Brassica oleracea)	100 mg	†
† Daily Value (DV) not established

Other ingredients: cellulose, vegetable stearine

Suggested use for adults:

• 1-2 tablets, three times daily, or as directed

MaxBiotic

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Probiotic blend supporting optimal intestinal function for overall health maintenance

Product # 3110

100 tablets

tablets

MaxBiotic contains highly concentrated, stable colonies of “friendly” bacteria strains, supplied in convenient caplets with controlled-release delivery. These human probiotic strains contribute to overall health by inhibiting pathogens such as E. coli and Candida albicans, maintaining gut barrier integrity, aiding food digestion, and supporting immune function. MaxBiotic needs no refrigeration, thanks to the unique LiveBac® process that guarantees long shelf life at room temperatures.

• MaxBiotic contains highly concentrated, stable colonies of "friendly" bacteria strains, supplied in convenient caplets. Moreover MaxBiotic needs no refrigeration, thanks to the unique LiveBac® process that guarantees long shelf life at room temperatures.
• Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Bifidobacterium bifidum and Streptococcus thermophilus are friendly bacteria normally present in the healthy human intestinal tract that help maintain optimal gut function (J Nutr 2000;130:396S-420S).
• Probiotic bacteria play an important role in the stabilization of the gut mucosal barrier (Antonie Van Leeuwenhoek 1996;70:347-58).
• Probiotic bacteria antagonize unfriendly microorganisms that produce toxins and carcinogens (JAMA 1996;275:870-6, Nutr Rev 1995;53:127-30).
• Probiotics can help prevent symptoms associated with the loss of normal intestinal flora after a course of antibiotics ( Am J Clin Nutr 2001;73:430S-36S).
• Probiotics support the optimal function of the gastrointestinal immune system (Am J Gastroenterol 2000; 95:S22-5) and can reduce the likelihood of abnormal reactions to foods (Ann Med 1990;22:37-41, J Allergy Clin Immunol 1997;99:179–85).

Supplement Facts Serving Size - 1 Tablet Servings per container 100
Amount per serving:		%DV
MaxBiotic Proprietary Blend*
Lactobacillus acidophillus	40%	†
Bifidobacterium bifidum	40%	†
Lactobacillus bulgaricus	10%	†
Streptococcus thermophilus	10%	†
† Daily Value (DV) not established

* Providing at least 1 Billion Organisms (at time of manufacture).

*MaxBiotic Proprietary Blend: Lactobacillus acidophilus 40%, Bifidobacterium bifidum 40%, Lactobacillus helveticus 10%, Streptococcus thermophilus 10%

Other ingredients: microcrystalline cellulose, Methocel K 15m, pectin, sodium bicarbonate, sodium carbonate, silica dioxide, stearic acid, tumeric for color

Suggested use for adults:

• 1-2 tablets daily, or as directed.
  
  NOTE: Although the LiveBac® process has been proven to maintain shelf-stability with no refrigeration, Karuna has taken the extra step to refrigerate this product prior to shipping. Karuna has performed an independent study and has shown that, with refrigeration, the life of this product is greatly enhanced. Refrigerate after opening for optimal shelf life.

Olive Leaf Extract

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High oleuropein content for multisystem benefits

Product # 5211

60 capsules

The leaf of the olive tree has been known by traditional herbalists since biblical times. Modern research shows olive leaf contains unique flavonoids including oleuropein, which has several valuable properties for protecting cardiovascular tissues, maintaining normal glucose tolerance, and inhibiting aspects of microbial metabolism. Karuna’s Olive Leaf Extract is standardized for a high 17% to 23% oleuropein content.

• Olive leaf extract (Olea europaea) helps support normal blood pressure (J Pharm Belg 1996;51:69-71) and protects LDL cholesterol from oxidation (Life Sciences 1994;55:1965–71).
• Olive leaf extract’s constituents combine synergistically as potent antioxidants with greater activity than vitamins C and E; in addition, its components oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol have shown a broad action against several aspects of microbial metabolism (Food Chem 2000;68:457-62).
• Clinical trials clearly show olive leaf extract to be orally bioavailable (J Nutr 2002;132:409-17).
• Animal studies have identified potentially useful blood-sugar regulating activity of olive leaf extract (J Pharm Pharmacol 1999; 51:1305-12).

Supplement Facts Serving Size - 1 Capsule Servings per container 60
Amount per serving:		%DV
Olive Leaf Extract (Olea europa)**	500 mg	†
† Daily Value (DV) not established

** Standardized to yield 17% to 23% oleuropein

Other ingredients: vegetarian capsule, cellulose, silicon dioxide, and magnesium stearate

Suggested use for adults:

• One capsule 2 times daily, or as directed.

PancreMax

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Highest potency pancreatic enzymes

Product # 3107

60 capsules

gelatin

PancreMax provides a strong 9X concentration of pancreatic amylase, protease and lipase enzymes from freeze-dried porcine source, for reliable support of the intestinal phase of digestion. Adequate protease activity ensures thorough breakdown of food proteins for optimal amino acid absorption and for avoiding inappropriate absorption of food antigens. High lipase activity supports absorption of essential fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins, and prevents complaints associated with eating high-fat meals.

• Individuals with pancreatic insufficiencies excrete undigested fats and proteins in their stools and, as a result, also lose essential fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins (J Clin Gastroenterol 1999;28:3-10).
• Supplementary proteases ensure proper protein digestion, helping to reduce potentially allergic food proteins to hypoallergenic free amino acids (Inflamm Res 2002;51:S13-4).
• High lipase activity is essential for preventing complaints associated with eating high-fat meals (Dig Dis Sci 1999;44:1317–21).

Supplement Facts Serving Size - 1 Capsule Servings per container 60
Amount per serving:		%DV
Pure pancreatin (9x conc.)*	500 mg	†
Lipase (30x conc.)	31 mg	†
† Daily Value (DV) not established

*Bovine free, from freeze-dried New Zealand porcine source.

Yielding the following enzymatic activity:

• Amylase 125,000 USP Units
• Protease 125,000 USP Units
• Lipase 30,000 USP Units

Suggested use for adults:

• 1-2 capsules per meal, or as directed.

VegeZyme

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High potency enzyme for digestive and immune support

Product # 3112

90 capsules

VegeZyme is a plant-based source of digestive enzymes as an alternative to PancreMax or DuoZyme. Plant enzymes exhibit potent activity in a broad pH range. Bromelain complements other proteolytic enzymes derived from non-animal sources. Lactase improves digestion of dairy foods. Cellulase, phytase, and alpha-galactosidase break down other poorly digested carbohydrates. With additional lipase and other valuable enzymes, VegeZyme offers a potent plant-based combination of a broad spectrum of enzymes needed for normal digestion.

• Non-animal derived enzymes are generating significant interest as alternatives to traditional pancreatic enzymes (Pancreas 2003;26:1-7; Pancreas 1992;7:311-9).
• Lactase, such as contained in VegeZyme, supports normal digestion of dairy products when taken simultaneously (Pediatrics 1987;79:766-72).
• Alpha-galactosidase effectively breaks down potentially gas-forming carbohydrates (Clin Ther 1998;20:497-504).

Supplement Facts Serving Size - 1 Capsule Servings per container 90
Amount per serving:		%DV
Protease	60,000 HUT	†
Acid Stable Protease	30 SAP	†
Bromelain	20,000 PU	†
Amylase	20,000 SKB	†
Lipase	500 FIP	†
Cellulase	400 CU	†
Lactase	400 ALU	†
Maltase	600 DU	†
Invertase	450 Sumner	†
Alpha Galactosidase	50 Gal	†
Phytase	53 U	†
† Daily Value (DV) not established

Other ingredients: vegetarian capsule, cellulose, vegetable stearine

Suggested use for adults:

• 1-2 capsules with each meal or as directed