Methylene Blue: Cognitive and Mitochondrial Benefits
MB is a synthetic dye with a long history in medicine that’s been gaining attention for its low-dose benefits, particularly in brain and mitochondrial health. Let's give a brief overview.
Why Sleep Should Be Your First Health Priority
Sleep is often the first thing we sacrifice and the last thing we prioritize. But quality sleep isn’t a luxury—it’s a non-negotiable foundation for health. From mood and memory to stress management, immune function, and even detoxification, sleep supports nearly every aspect of our well-being. Yet, good sleep doesn’t always come easy. Factors like stress, diet, screen exposure, and hormonal imbalances can disrupt our ability to fall asleep—and stay asleep. If you’ve been struggling with restless nights or waking up feeling anything but refreshed, it may be time to explore a more holistic approach. We’re passionate about supporting foundational health—and sleep sits right at the top. Our Sleep Stack Bundle features three targeted supplements, each chosen for its unique ability to support your body’s natural rhythms and help you get the deep, restorative rest you need. BALANCE – Bioavailable Magnesium Bicarbonate Magnesium is often referred to as the “miracle mineral” for a reason. It’s involved in over 40% of the body’s enzymatic reactions, many of which are directly tied to energy production, brain function, and stress regulation. Our Balance formula uses a unique blend of magnesium hydroxide with sodium and potassium bicarbonate to create magnesium bicarbonate—a highly absorbable form that your body can use with maximum efficiency. The result? Deeper relaxation, reduced nighttime restlessness, and better-quality sleep. Magnesium’s role in calming the nervous system and facilitating neurotransmitter function makes it a cornerstone of any effective sleep routine. TORO – The Power of Taurine Taurine might sound familiar—it’s often found in energy drinks—but its real superpower lies in its ability to support the nervous system. Taurine helps stimulate the release of GABA, a calming neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and eases anxiety. Rather than overstimulating the body, taurine acts as a balancer—calming the mind while supporting metabolic health. Incorporating Toro into your evening routine can help quiet mental chatter, reduce stress-induced restlessness, and prepare your body for a deeper, more restorative sleep cycle. GLYCINE – Your Circadian Rhythm Ally Glycine is a simple amino acid with profound benefits. As an inhibitory neurotransmitter, it supports relaxation, helps reduce core body temperature before bed, and plays a key role in resetting your internal clock—your circadian rhythm. Research has shown that glycine can improve both the quality and efficiency of sleep, reduce next-day fatigue, and even enhance cognitive performance. Our high-purity L-Glycine is designed to work in harmony with your body’s natural systems, making it a trusted ally for anyone looking to restore healthy sleep patterns. Why a Sleep Stack? Each of these supplements offers powerful individual benefits—but when combined, they create a synergistic effect that supports both the body and brain through every phase of the sleep cycle. Our Sleep Stack Bundle is a targeted, easy-to-integrate solution to help you sleep more soundly, wake more refreshed, and feel more balanced throughout your day. Because when sleep improves, everything else follows.
Liver Flush Protocol
Why flush the liver? Over time, toxins and sludgy bile can accumulate in the liver and gallbladder. This can lead to bloating, sluggish digestion, hormonal imbalances, and low energy. A liver flush helps move that congestion out—so your body can do what it’s designed to do. You may notice improved digestion, metabolism, appetite, and even emotional clarity after completing a flush. Adam has refined a liver flush protocol inspired by Andreas Moritz and Hulda Clarke—something he’s done 16+ times with incredible results. This method is gentle, effective, and sustainable. We are not medical practitioners and this is not medical advice. Always consult a practitioner if you’re unsure this is right for you. Day 1-5: Prep Drink 1L+ of organic apple juice daily (or use malic acid supplements) for 5–6 days before flushing. This softens bile and gallstones. Continue with a health-promoting diet with local, seasonal carb sources where possible, pasture-raised meats, eggs, and dairy. Additions: Tart cherry + sea salt + lemon + sparkling water for a hydration drink (extra malic acid from cherry) Bitter greens in salads or cooked as a side. Digestive bitter tinctures also promote bile flow. Take TUDCA MAX in the morning on an empty stomach. Tudca promotes bile flow. Take digestive enzymes. I recommend @mitolife Digest-it-All Coffee enemas Day 5: Flush Do not consume fatty foods or significant protein consumption. Stop taking supplements/coffee/bitters/etc. Only take the malic acid, before noon. Breakfast: Oatmeal cooked in water, or low-fat milk, with maple syrup Lunch (BEFORE 1 pm*): White rice with sea salt or tamari After 1pm: Only water onwards Flush Protocol Mix 60g Magnesium Citrate (Calm) into 800ml of water. Prepare citrus juice for later. 6pm: Drink 200ml of Mag mixture 8pm: Drink 200ml of Mag mixture 10pm: Drink 1/2 cup grapefruit or lemon juice shaken with 1/2 cup olive oil and then go directly to bed. Lay on your right side. Day 6 6am: Drink 200ml of Mag mixture 8am: Drink 200ml of Mag mixture 10am: Resume eating and drinking as normal. Afternoon/evening: Coffee enema or water enema. Expect bowel movements the next morning that help flush out bile and debris. Rest, hydrate, and nourish your body gently afterward. Evening/next day: Use binders and natural laxatives (cascara/oxypowder) or more ememas if necessary to keep bowels moving and continue flushing further bile.
Spring Clean Your Liver
Tools, foods, and lifestyle strategies to support optimal liver function this season.
Bioavailability: Why It Matters More Than You Think
When it comes to supplements, many people assume that what’s on the label is what your body receives. You take your daily multivitamin, maybe a few targeted nutrients, and trust that your body is benefiting from them. But the truth is, not all supplements are created equal—and more importantly, not all supplements are equally absorbed. This is where the concept of bioavailability comes in. Bioavailability refers to how much of a nutrient your body can absorb and actually use. It’s a critical factor in the effectiveness of any supplement, and yet, it’s often overlooked. You could be taking the right nutrients at the right dosages, but if your body can’t access them, it won’t make a meaningful difference. Understanding the Role of Bioavailability Think of bioavailability as the bridge between what you take and what your body can actually use. If a supplement has low bioavailability, it means much of the nutrient passes through your system without being absorbed. This doesn’t just limit the benefit—it also wastes your money and gives a false sense of support. For example, a multivitamin might list 100% of your daily value for various nutrients, but if those nutrients are in poorly absorbed forms or are paired with fillers that interfere with digestion, your body won’t get the full benefit. It’s not about how much you take—it’s about how much your body can use. What Influences Nutrient Absorption? Several factors influence a supplement’s bioavailability. One of the most important is the form of the nutrient. Some forms are more biologically active and ready for absorption, while others require conversion processes that your body may not perform efficiently. A good example is vitamin B9: the bioavailable form, L-5-methyl folate, is ready for use immediately, while the synthetic form, folic acid, must be converted in the body—and many people can’t make that conversion effectively. The delivery method also matters. Liquid supplements and clean capsules tend to offer better absorption because they dissolve easily and don’t contain unnecessary binders or coatings. In contrast, many tablets contain fillers, binders, and other additives that not only reduce bioavailability but can also irritate the digestive system. Another consideration is whether a nutrient is fat-soluble or water-soluble. Fat-soluble vitamins—like A, D, E, and K—require dietary fat to be absorbed properly. If these vitamins aren’t paired with a fat source in your supplement, your body may struggle to absorb them. However, the type of fat used also matters, which brings us to another key point. The Problem With PUFA-Based Oils Many supplement brands pair fat-soluble vitamins with carrier oils, but not all oils are equal. Polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA)-based oils like soybean or sunflower oil are commonly used because they’re inexpensive. Unfortunately, these oils are highly prone to oxidation—especially when exposed to heat, light, or air. Once oxidized, they can contribute to inflammation and cellular stress in the body. At LifeBlud, we avoid PUFA-based oils altogether. Instead, we use only clean, stable fats like MCT oil and organic olive oil to support absorption without the oxidative stress. In our products like Antidote (Vitamin E) and Regulate (Vitamin K2), these carrier oils help deliver nutrients effectively while supporting overall cellular health. Why Ingredient Quality and Simplicity Matters Beyond the nutrient form and delivery method, it’s important to pay attention to everything else that’s included in your supplement. Fillers, artificial colours, synthetic preservatives, and other unnecessary ingredients can interfere with how your body absorbs nutrients—or cause irritation that throws your gut off balance. That’s why we keep our formulas simple and intentional. Every ingredient we include has a clear purpose. If it doesn’t support absorption or function, it doesn’t make the cut. We also avoid trends and buzzwords. Our focus is on formulations that work with your body, not just look good on a label. The LifeBlud Approach to Bioavailability At LifeBlud, bioavailability is the foundation of every formula we create. We believe that effective supplementation isn’t about megadoses or trendy ingredients—it’s about giving your body nutrients in the most usable, absorbable forms possible. That means: • Using only the most bioavailable forms of nutrients • Avoiding synthetic fillers and binders • Steering clear of PUFA-based oils • Choosing clean carrier oils to support absorption We’re committed to creating supplements that truly support your health—from the inside out. Because when your body can absorb what you’re giving it, that’s when the real benefits begin.
LB’s Travel Supplement Guide
If you have an upcoming trip planned, or are a frequent traveller, it’s vital to ensure your health is in optimal condition, doing so helps to manage the common pitfalls of travel. Here's our guide to supplements for travel.
Why You Should Care About the Quality of Your Supplements
Not all supplements are created equal. Many brands cut corners, using cheap ingredients and unnecessary fillers that can do more harm than good. At LifeBlud, we believe in full transparency and only provide high-quality, effective supplements. Unlike generic brands, ours contain zero additives—just pure, bioavailable nutrients. Here’s why you should pay close attention to what’s inside your supplements. Heavy Vitamin E Supplements Can Be Harmful Many generic Vitamin E supplements use sunflower or soybean oil, which are high in polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs).These fats are unstable, prone to oxidation, and may actually contribute to oxidative stress—the very thing Vitamin E is supposed to protect against. Fillers & Additives Many mainstream brands use fillers, preservatives, and artificial ingredients to bulk up their products, extend shelf life, or make manufacturing easier. Common harmful additives to look out for: Magnesium stearate – used as a flow agent but may reduce nutrient absorption. Silicon dioxide & titanium dioxide – anti-caking agents with no nutritional value. Artificial colours & preservatives – unnecessary chemicals that may have long-term health impacts. Why Bioavailability Matters Just because a supplement contains a certain nutrient doesn’t mean your body can use it efficiently. Many brands rely on cheap, synthetic forms of vitamins and minerals that are poorly absorbed. We use pure mixed tocopherols, the natural form of Vitamin E, instead of synthetic alpha-tocopherol. Our base oil is organic olive oil or MCT oil, which enhances nutrient absorption without adding harmful polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs). What makes us different? At LifeBlud, we prioritize purity, potency, and effectiveness. There are no unnecessary additives in our products. No cheap ingredients. No junk. Every product we create is something we would take ourselves—because your health deserves the best. Antidote avoids PUFAs entirely and uses a clean, high-quality oil base to enhance absorption without adding inflammatory oils.
Eating with the Seasons: The Power of Local and Seasonal Foods
It’s easy to overlook the simple wisdom of eating with the seasons. Rotating key food sources based on seasonal availability is one of the best ways to maximize nutrient intake, support overall health, and stay in sync with nature’s rhythms. Not only does this approach diversify your diet, but it also prevents overconsumption of certain foods to the point of imbalance or toxicity. We’ll explore the benefits of seasonal eating and highlight some key foods to include throughout the year. Spring: A Time for Cleansing and Renewal Spring marks a time of growth and renewal, making it the perfect season to integrate bitter greens and detoxifying foods into your diet. In traditional Chinese medicine, spring is associated with liver support, and consuming foods that promote bile secretion and enzyme stimulation can aid digestion and detoxification. Bitter Greens: Dandelion greens, arugula, chicory, and mustard greens help support liver function and digestion. Ripe Fruit/Fruit Juice: A rich source of digestible carbohydrates, vitamin C, minerals, and antioxidants. Opt for seasonal fruits that are readily available to you, and if the fruit isn’t ripe, stew or cook it to increase its digestibility. Raw Carrot Salad: A simple mix of shaved carrots, olive oil, vinegar, and sea salt can help sweep the colon, reduce bacterial overgrowth, and support hormone balance. Summer: Light and Hydrating Foods The warmth of summer calls for hydrating foods that provide quick energy and essential nutrients without weighing the body down. Simple Carbohydrates: Easily digestible carbs such as ripe fruit, honey, maple syrup, and even white sugar can help maintain energy levels. Grass-Fed Dairy: Fresh milk, yogurt, cheese, cream, butter, and sour cream provide a full spectrum of essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Shellfish: Oysters, shrimp, and scallops are packed with protein and trace minerals like zinc, iodine, and selenium, which support thyroid health. Fall: Harvest and Preparation for Colder Months As temperatures get colder, heartier foods are ready for harvest. Root vegetables and nutrient-dense proteins help build strength and provide warmth. Root Vegetables and Squashes: Well-cooked squashes and potatoes provide caloric density and essential nutrients. Grass-Fed Red Meat: Bison, beef, elk, venison, or buffalo provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like B vitamins, zinc, and iron. Eating nose-to-tail—including organ meats like liver—ensures a wide range of nutrients for overall wellness. Eggs: Rich in vitamin A, cholesterol, and choline, eggs are a powerhouse for brain and liver health. Winter: Warming and Strengthening Foods During the colder months, the body benefits from nutrient-dense, warming foods that provide sustained energy and nourishment. Bone Broth & Collagen: Slow-simmered bone broth, shanks, short ribs, and chuck roasts provide collagen, which supports joint health, skin elasticity, and gut healing. Liver: The MVP of superfoods, liver offers concentrated amounts of vitamin A, copper, and essential B vitamins, supporting immune function and energy production. Well-Cooked Carbohydrates: Squashes and potatoes can provide the necessary energy and comfort during winter. By aligning your diet with the changing seasons, you are not only nourishing your body with the best possible foods, but also respecting nature’s inherent wisdom. Each season brings its own set of challenges and needs, and by eating accordingly, you can optimize your health and well-being year-round. LifeBlud's philosophy is that food is medicine, and nature provides us with exactly what we need at the right time. By focusing on high-quality, nutrient-dense, seasonal foods, we can experience greater vitality, resilience, and overall wellness.
Unlocking Fertility Potential with Creatine
We know creatine for its role in fitness and muscle recovery, but did you know it also plays a crucial part in reproductive health?
The Foundation of Energy and Hydration: Electrolytes
Electrolytes are the unsung heroes behind nearly every function in your body, from energy production to hydration, muscle function, and stress regulation. Whether you're experiencing fatigue, muscle cramps, or brain fog, an electrolyte imbalance could be the root cause.
What does "Bioenergetics" mean?
Bioenergetics is the perspective that views humans as energy dependent organisms, and that all structure and function is reliant on the production, flow, and utilization of energy. This perspective is inspired by the works of Dr. Raymond Peat, Albert Szent-Gyorgi, Otto Warburg, Gerald Pollock, Gilbert Ling, and others. The principles of bioenergetics refute almost all of allopathic, mainstream, and conventional biology and medicine. The true bioenergetic perspective sees humans as electro-magnetic beings that operate within but also beyond the purely material. Since Gilbert Ling had irrefutably proven that cell membranes, and sodium/potassium pumps can not possibly exist, it has opened up a whole new world for us to understand biology in new and alternative ways. This leads us to new possibilities of understanding illness, disease, and wellness from a true holistic perspective, integrating light, water, electricity, magnetism, polarity, frequency/vibration/resonance/sound, into our understanding of the material and chemical. Some other concepts that have been disproven, and are not compatible with bioenergetics are: - cell pumps and channels- pathogens (microorganisms) as the cause of illness- genetics as the cause of heredity and disease- DNA as fixed and stable- existence of other cellular machinery (ribosomes, endoplastic reticulum etc) Bioenergetics provide a holistic view of the body in the sense that it follows the concept that all physical dysfunction can be corrected through reparation of the energy production. This is because the entire system, at every location, organ, and tissue in the body requires energy to perform its functions. The flow of energy is facilitated by all of the physical, and non-physical input and information that our bodies get. Starting very importantly with our food, water, and air, and beyond that, to how we interact with nature, our thoughts, relationships, and more. Damage, dysfunction, and disease can all be seen as cellular energy impairments at a certain location in the body. These could be caused by a countless number of things, but can be remedied by restoring the energy production, and removing toxicities or pollutants that could be impeding the flow of energy. How does LifeBlud fit in? All of the LifeBlud products are designed with two main goals: 1. Supporting, improving, and optimizing energy production and coherent biological structure and function. 2. Sourcing the highest quality materials on the market, and formulating them with no filler, and the cleanest and most beneficial ingredient list possible.LifeBlud is here to provide you with an all-star roster of tools which you can use contextually, applying your own knowledge, experience, personal insight, and intuition, to improve your physical and mental function and well being.
My top Ray Peat-Inspired Nutritional Concepts
There is no one I've come across in the past 10 years studying holistic health who has created a more complete nutritional paradigm than Dr. Ray Peat, or likely even close.But, of course, that doesn't mean everything he said is perfect and that his words should be followed blindly. Actually, he encouraged the exact opposite with his quote "perceive, think, act".These were some of MY biggest takeaways from listening to him and reading his work for years, mostly focusing on practical and applicable nutritional concepts. If you have other significant takeaways from his life and work I would love to hear about them, send me an email at adam@lifeblud.co. 1. Amino Acid Balance 🥩 Ray deeply understood the importance of amino acids and discovered their deep connection to hormones and metabolism in his research. He observed and highlighted the issue of the average modern diet, which contains a severely out-of-balance amino acid profile favoring cysteine, methionine, and tryptophan and deficient in glycine, proline, hydroxyproline, and others. This problem stems from the overconsumption of muscle meats and grains and the lack of nose-to-tail animal-food eating. My Application: grass-fed collagen powder daily, eat gelatinous meats often (osso bucco, oxtail, bone broth, ribs), monthly organ meats. 2. Omega 3's & Sat to Unsaturated Fat Ratio 🥑 Ray provided the most in-depth explanations and education surrounding fatty acids of anyone I have encountered in this space. Before his work made massive waves in alt health, we had the generic 'good fats' and 'bad fats'. He exposed Omega 3's for exactly what they are as anti-metabolic, highly unsaturated fats that do not facilitate human well-being. He also educated us on the dangers of the Omega-6 PUFA's which has since spiraled into the anti-seed oil revolution that has been growing in recent years. Instead of propagating fear, and knowing that there are small amounts of Omega 3's in many health-promoting animal proteins, he highlighted that the saturated to unsaturated fat ratio in our diet was important to pay attention to since we can not avoid all PUFA completely. Minimize/eliminate omega-3 supplements, seed oils, etc. 3. Calcium:Phosphorus Ratio 🧀 Ray highlighted the Ca:P ratio whenever he had the chance. His passion for dairy as the most bioavailable calcium source is surely in part responsible for the renaissance of raw/organic/grass-fed milk in the alt-health world which was previously overtaken by alternative milks and saw dairy as evil. He emphasized that a calcium-deficient state, not excess, is a primary cause of stress, osteo issues, and calcification, as the body will pull calcium from the bones to raise blood calcium. High P:Ca intake creates the same effect (5+:1). My Application: aim for 1g calcium a day via 1L milk, 250g cheese, yogurt, pearl powder, well-cooked greens (typically a combo of the above). 4. Eliminating Sugarphobia 🍨 Ray broke the 'sugar is poison' spell and added tons of context for how we view carbohydrates specifically in regards to sucrose, fructose, and glucose. He explained the biochemistry of how sugar (glucose) is the center of the metabolism, and many things labeled as 'sugar' (donuts, candy, etc) contained many other anti-metabolic toxins and were not the reason for causing health issues. My Application: sugarmaxx every day 5. Fiber to Detox Excess Estrogen 🥕 The raw carrot salad has gone viral in the online health world and for good reason. I'll personally extend this concept beyond the carrot. Many insoluble fibers have the ability to bind to recirculating toxins in the gut. Very importantly, the liver will eliminate toxins via the bile such as excess estrogen, fat-soluble toxins, or excess cholesterol. It is important to bind this bile up with fiber, to ensure it is eliminated and not recirculated into the bloodstream. My Application: daily consumption of fibers such as oatmeal, beans, carrots, seasonal fruits and vegetables. 6. The Harms of Unregulated Estrogen 🫃 Ray dedicated most of his work to studying the endocrine system and specific hormones. Mainly thyroid, progesterone, and estrogen. He taught us that estrogen is the hormone of growth, proliferation, and water retention among other things. When it is necessary (eg: pregnancy), it is a good thing to have the right amounts of it. When unregulated or in excess due to environmental toxins, obesity (via aromatase), PUFA intake, and liver and gut issues, then excess estrogen becomes indicative of a very dysfunctional body, and may even contribute to certain cancers. My Application: stay lean, consume aromatase inhibitors, heavy focus on liver health and detox. 7. Live a Fulfilling Life 🏄 It's easy to stay deep in the weeds of biochemistry and scientific physiology when studying Ray's legacy. We need not forget how he emphasized that a life of enjoyment and fulfillment is required to connect all the pieces of the puzzle together and to facilitate a well-functioning endocrine system. He more or less understood stress to be the main disruptor of good health. He was a great painter and would likely have called painting one of his greatest health promoters. My Application: follow my passions and hobbies, enjoy the bounties of nature. 8. Animal Based Superfoods 🦪 Ray saw the nutrient density of certain animal foods as next to none. He recognized their high vitamin and mineral content, in combination with the high bioavailability, and lack of nutrient-inhibiting compounds. He recommended 'occasional' liver and oysters, or a small to moderate portion of them once a week. The importance of Vitamin A as a thyroid precursor was not understated, and the mineral density from oysters was the main highlight. He never recommended overconsumption of these foods or eating liver for breakfast lunch and dinner. His daily nutrient powerhouses would be from dairy, eggs, collagenous meats, and seasonal fruit. My Application: include all the above foods in my dietary rotation or supplement with Nutrimal beef liver & oyster capsules. 9. Energy & Structure ☀️ His marquee quote "Energy and structure are interdependent, at every level" means so much to me. This quote enlightens me and provides the foundation for what I believe 'true bioenergetics' to mean which really points to how all of biology and life works. Energy facilitates structure, and structure facilitates energy.
Factors that Affect Thyroid Health & How to Restore It
Thyroid issues are by no means rare these days, and in the past couple of years, my understanding of this topic has really evolved (building on great influence from Dr. Ray Peat). Let me explain. A well-functioning thyroid is a cornerstone marker of optimal health. Discovering the connection between the liver, the metabolism, and the thyroid will help one understand how to improve their thyroid status. What does the thyroid do? The thyroid is like the master headquarters of our body's overall health. It affects energy production, hormone production, neurotransmitters, body temperature, mood, immune health, and more. Active thyroid hormone T3 is used in every cell in the body to create energy. There’s no quick fix for thyroid issues, but it is possible to restore thyroid health through consistent lifestyle changes that benefit the liver and metabolism. This is why it's important to support both metabolic and liver health, which in turn benefit the thyroid function and overall healing. This is largely in parallel to the Energy Restoration Process (a free guide on our website) and has some main goals: prioritize electrolyte intake via food/hydration/supplement optimize nutritional intake with quality foods and round off with supplementation as needed execute health-promoting behaviors such as circadian regulation, movement, grounding, sunlight, fresh air, etc eliminate and avoid toxins as much as practically possible (processed junk foods, pufa oils, toxic soaps cosmetics, and home products, etc) The additional specific liver-supporting tools and detoxification methods mentioned below will also help all of the above work much better, as the liver is responsible for the majority of T3 production in the body. Lack of T3 = high TSH, a.k.a the body sending a signal to request more T3. A functioning liver is crucial or else this cycle will continue forever. Ways to Support Liver Health (our main detoxifier and metabolic orchestrator) limit toxin exposure (drugs, household chemicals, alcohol, environmental, pesticides, seed oils) castor oil packs consuming adequate protein daily taking TUDCA MAX to support bile flow liver flushing lymphatic drainage massage mindful eating processing anger/resentment beef liver, dark leafy greens dandelion root tea, ginger tea B vitamins, vitamin E, trace minerals coffee enemas Ways to Support Metabolic Health (how well we generate and process energy in the body) regulating blood sugar with consistent eating, every 2-4hrs, with both carbohydrates and protein. sufficient electrolyte intake and balance exercise / daily movement supporting circadian rhythm (blocking blue light at night, getting sunlight in the morning/red light therapy) post-meal walks quality and consistent sleep The thyroid also requires these important nutrients daily: Iodine: shellfish, dairy, seaweed Tyrosine: eggs, cheese Zinc: red meat, oysters Selenium: red meat, shellfish, eggs B2/B3/B6: eggs, dairy, meat C: fruit D: sun, eggs, dairy, mushrooms E: Antidote vitamin E A: eggs, dairy fat, liver Supplements for thyroid, metabolic and/or liver health: Antidote Vitamin E supports the liver/metabolism in the following ways: Helps prevent the oxidation of PUFA Decreases excess estrogen (inhibits the enzyme aromatase) Improves cell waste detoxification Helps cells utilize oxygen Mitigate macular degeneration Improves insulin resistance Learn more about Antidote here. TUDCA MAX supports the liver/metabolism in the following ways: Improved bile flow Improved fat digestion Increased fat-soluble vitamin absorption Supports gut health Aids in toxin elimination via bile May assist in dissolving gallstones May improve liver and muscle insulin sensitivity May reduce elevated liver enzyme markers May lower cholesterol May reduce cholestasis May improve conditions of liver cirrhosis, fatty liver, and hepatitis Learn more about TUDCA and how it works here. Methylene Blue supports metabolic health in the following ways: Broad spectrum anti-inflammatory Antioxidant capable of lowering oxidative stress and markers of aging Repairs cellular mitochondrial energy production Improves cellular ability to use oxygen (oxidative phosphorylation) Shown to improve depression, anxiety, psychosis, schizophrenia Promotes autophagy (the cell's garbage removal system) Reduces harmful Nitric Oxide Learn more about MB and how it works here. Energi+ B-Complex B vitamins are crucial to metabolic health (creating energy), and also important for liver function as the liver uses B vitamins to metabolize toxins, generate energy from food, and for other important processes like methylation. For an in-depth breakdown of each B vitamin in our complex, and their benefits checkout the product page. TyroPhen: L-Tyrosine & L-Phenylalanine are both amino acids that are precursors to Dopamine, and the Thyroid hormone. Dopamine synthesis Thyroid hormone production support Improved motivation Improved focus Attention deficit assistance Regulation of reward-seeking behavior May assist with addiction alleviation Aids melanin production Adrenal support Prolactin lowering Serotonin lowering Learn more about TyroPhen here. Toro: L-Taurine The All-Star Amino Acid, does many things in our bodies, but in regards to liver health, it is crucial for bile formation and flow. Taurine is conjugated with bile acids to form bile salts, which are released by the gallbladder to both help us digest the fat we consume, and assimilate the fat-soluble vitamins in that fat. If bile accumulates and is not formed into the salts that can be used, this can congest the liver and gallbladder with 'gallstones' or formations of bile/cholesterol/other proteins.Taurine is also highly concentrated in the most metabolically active tissue of the body, and the highest quantity of any free amino acid. In a healthy body, taurine is abundant. Learn more about Toro here.
The Right Forms of B Vitamins (and why it matters)
Most generic B Complexes out there are simply not effective, and can even work against the body if the wrong forms of the Bs are used, and ratios are off. This is why I set out to create the best B Complex on Earth... I spent tons of time researching each form and the interactions in the body before I went into production. Energi+ contains the most bioactive forms of the B Vitamins, which provides higher bioavailability, and better utilization in the cells &. energy systems.Some B complexes might have a couple of these optimal forms, but none contain them all, until now. Most large corporation-run supplement companies just don't have the wealth of knowledge that comes from the bioenergetic community behind the formulation of their products.So, let's look at these forms deeper and get an understanding of what they do and what makes them the best choice. B1: Benfotiamine instead of thiamine HCl Benfotiamine is a fat-soluble form of thiamine, so it stays in the body longer before being excreted and thus has a much higher bioavailable capacity than standard thiamine HCl. Benfotiamine delivers a more bioactive array of B1 benefits, such as improving glucose utilization, pyruvate dehydrogenase activation, neuroprotection, and anti-cancer effects. B1 is also a crucial component for recovering from alcohol use and has been shown to be liver-protective. Benfotiamine has been shown to reduce the inflammatory effects of endotoxin & PUFAs. B3: Niacinamide instead of niacin Niacinamide greatly increases our ability to utilize carbohydrates as energy, lowers free fatty acids in the blood, and increases cellular NAD+ levels which makes it an incredible tool, especially for someone switching to a diet with an emphasis on burning carbs efficiently as fuel. It does not induce the inflammatory response that niacin commonly does. Note: increased niacinamide intake also requires an increased demand for the methyl donors - because niacinamide must be methylated it can therefore use up high amounts of the methyl donors: choline, methionine, b9 folate, and B12. This is why Energi+ contains the most biologically active forms of both B9 and B12. B9: L5-methyl folate instead of folic acid Most supplemental folates are in the form of Folic Acid, which has to be converted by the body into methyl folate, many people struggle with that process due to stress, current biological situation, and so forth, and then unmetabolized Folic Acid in the body can cause problems. L5-MTHF is the most biologically active form of Folate and is found in nature and whole foods. L-5-MTHF can support methylation, in tandem with B12, which will not only maximize the efficiency of supplemental Niacinamide but also help many other processes such as DNA synthesis, hormone conversion, and homocysteine regulation. B12: Adenosylcobalamin instead of cyano/methylcobalamin Adenosylcobalamin is the form of B12 that is used directly in the mitochondria to create energy, in the Citric Acid Cycle. Most B complexes contain methylcobalamin, similar to L-5-MTHF, the body must convert methylcobalamin to adenosylcobalamin so that it can be used to create energy in the cell. This makes adenosylcobalamin the best choice when it comes to taking B12 supplements, as it will be easily absorbed by the body and assist in the energy production processes as best as possible. B6: Pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P5P) instead of pyridoxine P5P is the active form of B6 that our body uses in the methylation cycle, neurotransmitter synthesis, and glycogen use. Most B complexes contain B6 in the form of pyridoxine which is biologically inactive, as it must be converted to the active form (P5P) for the body to use it, and most of it is not converted successfully. Taking pyridoxine may cause peripheral neuropathy in some people. The Importance of B Vitamins The B Vitamins are involved in so many physiological functions, but they are heavily involved and priceless in the context of energy metabolism. When we consume carbohydrates, proteins, or fats, the body must convert these dietary inputs into acetyl-CoA, which is what kicks off the energy production process in the mitochondria. In the mitochondria, The Citric Acid Cycle (TCA) (aka Kreb's Cycle), and the Electron Transport Chain (ETC) are responsible for the majority of our energy (ATP) production. The important thing to note here is: There are many many steps involved in these energy processes, and each step of the way is facilitated by an enzyme. Enzymes require micronutrients for their function, like Magnesium, Copper, Zinc, Vitamin C, and of course, the B vitamins. Many factors can deplete our B Vitamins quickly, such as alcohol consumption, medications, gut/digestive issues, and an unbalanced diet. To learn more about Energi+ and dive deeper into what each component does, check out the product page.
What is TUDCA and what does it do?
TUDCA is a bile salt. Tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) is a water-soluble, conjugated bile salt. It is produced in the liver using cholesterol, deoxycholate (which is made in the intestine by bacteria and cholic acid), and the amino acid Taurine. What are bile salts? Bile salts are one of the components that make up bile. Upon the ingestion of fats, hormones signal your gallbladder to release bile, which aids in digestion by breaking down fats, assisting in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, and eliminating waste. TUDCA clears out the sludge While bile acids are known as mild surfactants, amino-acid-conjugated bile salts like TUDCA are considered strong surfactants. This is in relation to its action as a detergent for stuck and sludgy bile, to emulsify and help us digest fats, and to help us increase bile flow from the gallbladder into the intestine. Bile Flow is key The therapeutic value of TUDCA really centers around this ability to improve bile flow. When we eliminate stuck, old, sludgy bile, and improve the flow of bile, the entirety of the metabolic function in the body is improved. Fat-soluble vitamins are absorbed better, glucose from food intake is converted more efficiently into energy, digestion is improved, and ingested and stored toxins are eliminated more readily via bile. TUDCA and Thyroid Since 80% of thyroid hormone T3 is converted from T4 in the liver, thyroid function is accelerated with the ingestion of TUDCA and thus the improvement of liver function. This becomes a positive feedback loop because improved thyroid function will in turn improve metabolism, digestion, and overall energetic function. TUDCA in today’s context All toxins (toxic food, drugs, alcohol, polluted air/water, etc) that we come into contact with must be processed by our liver, and much of them are packaged into the bile by the liver which is then to be excreted via the stool. But, when we are faced with such an onslaught of toxins constantly, the liver can become overburdened. When this happens, the bile flow can slow down, and both bile and cholesterol will accumulate, become sludgy, and form stones that cause congestion in the liver ducts and gallbladder, leading to familiar health issues such as high cholesterol, low thyroid, elevated liver enzymes, low metabolic function, fatty liver, and others. Learn more on the TUDCA MAX product page.
Study Spotlight: Taurine deficiency as a driver of aging
Lately, there have been some very groundbreaking studies done on Taurine with some very promising results. Taurine is an integral amino acid for the structure, function, and metabolism of our body. It plays many important roles and offers numerous benefits that can significantly impact our overall health and well-being, from hormone health, cardiovascular benefits, blood pressure and electrolyte regulation, metabolic improvements, and more. Together, let's look into this recent study published in Science demonstrated the remarkable effects of taurine supplementation on aging and lifespan in animal studies. Study: Taurine deficiency as a driver of aging Summary: Studying various animals, Singh et al. found that the amount of the semi-essential amino acid taurine in circulation decreased with age. Supplementation with taurine slowed key markers of aging such as increased DNA damage, telomerase deficiency, impaired mitochondrial function, and cellular senescence. Loss of taurine in humans was associated with aging-related diseases, and concentrations of taurine and its metabolites increased in response to exercise. Taurine supplementation improved life & health span in mice and health span in monkeys. Increase in life & health span in mice & monkeys The study found that by supplementing with taurine, the animals showed signs of reversed aging and increased lifespan and health span. “Blood concentration of taurine declines with age in mice, monkeys, and humans. To investigate whether this decline contributes to aging, we orally fed taurine or a control solution once daily to middle-aged wild-type female and male C57Bl/6J mice until the end of life. Taurine-fed mice of both sexes survived longer than the control mice. The median life span of taurine-treated mice increased by 10 to 12%, and life expectancy at 28 months increased by about 18 to 25%. A meaningful antiaging therapy should not only improve life span but also health span, the period of healthy living. We, therefore, investigated the health of taurine-fed middle-aged mice and found an improved functioning of bone, muscle, pancreas, brain, fat, gut, and immune system, indicating an overall increase in health span. We observed similar effects in monkeys.” Why Taurine improves health & life span? Taurine supplementation has been shown to combat age-related issues and conditions such as inflammation and diabetes. As we age, our taurine levels naturally decrease, which can contribute to the development of these common age-related problems. By replenishing taurine levels through supplementation, we can potentially mitigate the effects of aging and improve our overall health. “Investigations into the mechanisms through which taurine supplementation improved the health span and life span revealed that taurine positively affected several hallmarks of aging. Taurine reduced cellular senescence, protected against telomerase deficiency, suppressed mitochondrial dysfunction, decreased DNA damage, and attenuated inflammation. An association analysis of metabolite clinical risk factors in humans showed that lower taurine, hypotaurine, and N-acetyltaurine concentrations were associated with adverse health, such as increased abdominal obesity, hypertension, inflammation, and prevalence of type 2 diabetes. Moreover, we found that a bout of exercise increased the concentrations of taurine metabolites in blood, which might partially underlie the antiaging effects of exercise.” In Short... Taurine is an integral amino acid for the structure, function, and metabolism of our body. Decreased Taurine levels with increased age is associated with many common age-related issues and conditions such as inflammation, diabetes and more. Therefore, taurine supplementation may increase lifespan and healthspan, and decrease the common degradations associated with aging. From reversing aging and increasing lifespan to improving cardiovascular health, brain function, athletic performance, and blood sugar regulation, taurine offers a multitude of benefits that can positively impact our overall well-being.That is why it's important to consume taurine-rich foods and consider supplementation into your daily routine to not only support the everyday function of your body, but combat aging and aging related health issues in the future. To learn more about our taurine product Toro, click here.