 Açai
(a-sigh-ee) (Euterpe oleracea) is considered to be one
of the most nutritious fruits of the Amazon rainforest.
It contains Vitamin B1 (Thiamin), Vitamin B2
(Riboflavin), Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Vitamin C, Vitamin E
(tocopherol), iron, potassium, phosphorus and calcium.
It also contains the essential fatty acids Omega 6 and
Omega 9 (these are the healthy fatty acids), and many of
the essential amino acids, with a protein profile
similar to an egg. And, that is just for starters. What
makes Açai unique is that is very rich in anthocyanins,
which are very potent antioxidants. In fact, this
amazing fruit contains 33 times more anthocyanins than
the red wine grape.
Anthocyanins as a class of nutrients are important in
their ability to help prevent atherosclerosis (clogged
arteries), and generalized cellular damage caused by
free radicals in the body. They are considered to be
very helpful in the anti-inflammatory process, and may
even help to lower LDL cholesterol (the bad
cholesterol). In addition, they play an important role
in neutralizing dangerous carcinogens.
Açai is an amazing fruit with many health benefits. But,
what is truly amazing is that it is only one of the 17
different exotic fruits and herbs contained in Agel EXO,
each of which are loaded with health enhancing
nutrients.
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Acerola (Malpighia glabra) is a fruit resembling the
bing cherry that is believed to originate from the
Yucatan peninsula in South America. Some of the largest
plantings in modern times are in Brazil. It is one of
the richest known food sources of vitamin C, and it is
for this reason that this fruit has played an important
role in South American herbal medicine. In addition, it
has carotene content comparable to that of carrots, and
is also a good supply of magnesium, and several of the B
vitamins; niacin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B1
(thiamine), and vitamin B2 (riboflavin).
Vitamin C is a nutrient that must be supplied in the
diet. It has many biological functions, including the
formation and maintenance of collagen (the primary
protein of skin and connective tissues), healthy
maintenance of the liver and adrenal glands, and it is a
powerful natural antihistamine. However, one of its most
important roles is that of an antioxidant and its
ability to help the body fight physiological stress. Our
environment is filled with external stresses and
pollutants that put our bodies under extraordinary
pressure to maintain health. We are much more prone to
infection and disease in our metropolitan environments
and the intake of extra vitamin C can serve as an
excellent adjunct to healthy living.
Some of the common ailments for which vitamin C is being
taken in our modern society include: allergies,
atherosclerosis (clogged arteries), bronchitis, cancer
prevention, colds and flu, glaucoma, and skin wrinkles.
Acerola is loaded with many important nutrients, and it
is an important component of Agel EXO. It contributes
synergistically with the other 13 exotic fruits and
herbs to create a supplement with exceptional
health-enhancing properties.
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 Aronia
(Aronia melanocarpa) is a shrub that is native to the
northeastern part of the United States. It produces
clusters of small dark purple berries that are also
known as “black chokeberries.” It has close botanical
ties to the bilberry and the cranberry in that is
contains high levels of anthocyanins and flavonoids,
both of which are very potent antioxidants. It has been
reported that the aronia berry contains over five times
greater levels of these compounds than the cranberry.
Antioxidants are so important in our modern day–to–day
living as we are constantly being bombarded with
oxidative stresses. Antioxidants are substances that
prevent cellular damage by acting as scavengers and
neutralize free radicals by donating electrons to these
electron–deprived compounds. The body has its own
mechanisms for dealing with free radicals, but they can
be inadequate, particularly with the added stress of
current life–styles and the increasing amount of
pollutants in the environment. For optimal health, it is
therefore necessary to complement these processes with
antioxidants from our diet. Fortunately, antioxidants
are abundantly present in fresh fruits and vegetables,
which are an essential part of a healthy diet. However,
as we substitute the intake of fresh fruits and
vegetables in our diets with other “empty” calories, the
need to take food supplements rich in antioxidants
becomes increasingly important.
The Aronia berry is just one of 17 different exotic
fruits and herbs contained in Agel EXO that is loaded
with these important antioxidants.
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There are over 240
different species of Aloe, growing mainly in the dry
regions of Africa, Asia, Europe, and America. Celsius, a
Greek physician (50 BC), first introduced Aloe into
western medicine. "Greek Herbal" written by Dioscorides
(AD 41-68) provides the first detailed description of
the Aloe Vera plant. Aloe uses include: induces sleep,
cleanses the stomach, treatment for boils, good for dry
itchy skin irritation, haemorrhoids, bruises, stops hair
loss, mouth pain, and stops bleeding of wounds, heals
tonsillitis and diseases of the mouth and eyes.
Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis) contains over 20 mineral
cofactors (notably, calcium, chlorine, copper,
germanium, iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium,
silicon, sodium, and sulfur), which are essential to
energy and stamina. Aloe Vera contains all eight
essential amino acids, and 11 of the 17 "secondary"
amino acids. Aloe Vera also contains numerous coenzymes:
vitamins A, B, B2, B6, B12, C and E.
Recent research reveals the presence of
beta-sitosterol (a powerful anti-inflammatory and
anti-cholesterolmatic) and lupeol (a powerful pain
killer and anti-microbial). At least three anti-tumor
agents: emodin, mannose, and lectin have been
identified. Aloe antioxidant constituents also include
Vitamin C, E, zinc and superoxide dismutase. Aloe Vera
contains 20-30 unique antioxidants.
Aloe Vera Health Benefits:
Promotes healthy joint mobility and function*
Enhances gastrointestinal health*
Supports blood glucose control*
Promotes wound healing*
Promotes the proper balance for intestinal flora*
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 As
we continue to explore the wonderful health benefits of
the 17 different exotic fruits and herbs in Agel EXO, it
becomes increasingly more exciting to realize how truly
unique it is. Let’s explore the bilberry.
Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) is a shrubby perennial
bush that is commonly found in Europe, western Asia and
in North America. The bilberry bears edible fruits that
are related to the American blueberry, the cranberry and
also the huckleberry. In fact, it is commonly called the
“European blueberry.”
For centuries, European herbalists have been using the
Bilberry to treat a myriad of health related ailments,
including urinary tract infections, diarrhea, night
blindness, and many others. Of particular interest is
the prolific use of the bilberry during World War II
when British Royal Air Force pilots noticed a
significant improvement in their night vision
capabilities after consuming bilberry preserves prior to
going out on bombing missions. Subsequent research has
shown that bilberries are very powerful antioxidants,
and it is in part because of this valuable property that
they have such wonderful medicinal capabilities. In
modern times, the bilberry has become a very popular
nutritional supplement and it has been found helpful in
treating various vision related problems, including poor
night vision, cataracts and macular degeneration.
Researchers who have looked into the bilberry have
identified the anthocyanins which are found abundantly
in the bilberry as the substance responsible for most of
the medicinal properties of this exotic fruit.
Anthocyanins are very potent antioxidants and they
appear to play a very important role in maintaining the
integrity of our blood vessels, both large and very
small. They appear to help prevent atherosclerosis
(clogging of the arteries) in many of our vital organs.
It is for this reason that they may be so beneficial in
preventing heart disease, in helping with visual
ailments, and in preventing some of the debilitating
consequences of chronic diseases such as diabetes.
The bilberry is just one of 17 different exotic fruits
and herbs contained in Agel EXO, each with its own
repertoire of health enhancing properties.
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 The
Blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium) is very closely
related to the Bilberry of northern Europe and to the
Cranberry of North America. It is one of the few fruits
native to North America. It has been used by the native
Americans for centuries as a tasty food source and as a
medicinal aid. Like it’s relatives, the blueberry is a
rich source of the phenolic antioxidant called
anthocyanin, as well as potassium, calcium, vitamins A,
C, and E, folic acid, and fiber. It is reported by
researchers at the USDA Human Nutrition Center (HNRCA)
that blueberries have higher antioxidant capacity than
40 other fresh fruits and vegetables.
Recent animal research indicates that blueberries may be
beneficial in slowing the process of age-related mental
decline, possibly a result of the high antioxidant
capacity of the anthocyanins that are so prevalent in
this fruit. Also a result of this important compound,
blueberries may help reduce the build up LDL (“bad”
cholesterol) and thus help prevent heart disease and
strokes. Also like its close relative, the bilberry, the
blueberry may play a role in improving eyesight and
reducing eye strain.
Just like many of the Vaccinium berries (bilberry,
cranberry) the blueberry contains another biologically
active substance called resveratrol. This compound has
been found to suppress tumor cell proliferation and
induce apoptosis (programmed tumor cell death) in
selected cancer cell lines. Resveratrol also has
anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties as well.
Although the blueberry is not a cure–all, it does
contain biologically important substances may help us to
live better and healthier lives. It is an important
component of Agel EXO, and it contributes
synergistically with the other 13 exotic fruits and
herbs to create a supplement with exceptional
health–enhancing properties.
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 The
North American Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) has a
long and distinguished history. Not only has it been a
food source, but has been used in ceremonies and for
medicinal purposes. Cranberries are packed with
nutrients and have been extensively researched.
Cranberries have long been the focus of interest for
their beneficial effects in preventing urinary tract
infections. Cranberries contain proanthocyanidin
compounds which prevent bacteria from attaching to the
uroepithelial cells in the urinary tract.
Cranberries not only contain antioxidants but have
anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties as well.
Cranberries contain powerful phenolic antioxidants like
anthocyanins, specifically it is the quercetin
glycosides that provide cranberries with their free
radical scavenging and enzyme inhibiting actions. The
phenol antioxidants have also been shown to increase HDL
(the “good” cholesterol) and reduce the oxidation of LDL
(the “bad” cholesterol) potentially decreasing the risk
of atherosclerosis. Resveratrol is an anti-cancer
compound that is found naturally in cranberries.
Resveratrol has been found to suppress tumor cell
proliferation and induce apoptosis (programmed tumor
cell death) in selected cancer cell lines. Resveratrol
also has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties
as well.
Cranberries are paced with nutrients and are an
excellent source of antioxidants. Agel EXO, users can
take advantage of the powerful antioxidant properties
along with the benefits of 16 other exotic fruits and
herbs from around the world.
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Elderberry is native to temperate forests of Europe,
North America, and Asia. Elderberry fruit is an
excellent source of healthy antioxidants. Elderberry
contains vitamins A, C, and B-vitamins: thiamine,
riboflavin and niacin. Elderberry antioxidants are
actively research in antiviral, immune modulating, and
anti-angiogenic studies. Elderberry antioxidants also
support cardiovascular health and anti-aging health.
Elderberry contains 60-80 antioxidants and a high ORAC
value.
Elderberry Health Benefits:
- Elderberry fruit supports anti-angiogenesis
(anti-cancer)*
- Elderberry antioxidants support cardiovascular health*
- Elderberry antioxidants have an anti-viral effect*
- Elderberry antioxidants slow down the reversible signs
of aging*
- Elderberry antioxidants may help modulate immune
system response*
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Gac fruit is highly nutritious and contains high
concentrations of antioxidant carotenoids. Gac
antioxidant carotenoids include beta-carotene, also
known as provitamin A, lycopene, zeaxanthin and
beta-cryptoxanthin. These cartenoids protect against
cancer and cardiovascular diseases via antioxidative
activity by quenching singlet oxygen radicals and
scavenging peroxyl radicals. Gac contains exceptionally
high levels (200-500 micrograms/g) of lycopene.
Gac alsocontains a recently discovered
water-soluable, antioxidant lycopene. Gac is currently
being studied for anti-tumor activity and to protect
against cardiovascular diseases. Gac is very high in
antioxidant carotenoids and has a high ORAC value.
Gac Health Benefits
- Gac is a nutritious fruit for children and adults*
- Gac carotenoid antioxidants are unique to fruits*
- Gac carotenoids may support anti-tumor activity*
- Gac carotenoids and antioxidants protect against
cardiovascular challenges*
- Gac antioxidants supports proper blood flow*
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Dark-skinned grape was probably the first wild fruit
to be cultivated by man. Major grape products include
grape juices, grape wines, grapes to eat and rasins. No
beverage has been analyzed more than grape wines and the
health benefits of wine are well recognized.
Grapes contain many phytonutrients such as
anthocyanins, catechins, quercetin and reservatrol have
found world wide attention by scientists for their
health benefits. Trape seed antioxidants, mainly
proanthocyanidins (gallic acid, catechin, epicatechin,
and epicatechingalates), has a storied history for
heart, circulatory and brain protection. Dark-skinned
grape puree (skin, pulp and seeds) contain more than 60
unique antioxidants and a high ORAC value.
Dark Grape Health Benefits:
- Grape antioxidants promote healthy blood
microcirculation*
- Grape antioxidants reduce blood cholesterol levels*
- Grape antioxidants protect a healthy heart*
- Grape antioxidants protect brain functions at all
ages*
- Grape antioxidants help lower high blood pressure*
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Mangosteen is a sweet-tasting fruit from an
ever-bearing tree native to Malaysia, Thailand,
Philippines and SE Asia. Mangosteen is traditionally
eaten as a breakfast fruit and dessert; and for
diarrhoea
and skin diseases.
Mangosteen fruits are excellent sources of
antioxidants and vitamins. Mangosteen contains
water-soluble vitamins B1, B2, B6 and C as well as
essential mineral cofactors potassium, calcium,
phophorus and iron. Mangosteen contains as many as 60
xanthone antioxidants. The pericarp (rind) of Mangosteen
is rich in xanthone antioxidants. Mangosteen fruit
contains numerous bioflavonoids, polyphenols, and
catechins. In addition, Mangosteen polysaccharides
provide antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Mangosteen contains more than 80 antioxidants and a very
high ORAC value.
Mangosteen Health Benefits:
- Mangosteen vitamins and minerals are a good source of
energy*
- Mangosteen xanthones are excellent antioxidants*
- Mangosteen xanthone antioxidants support
cardiovascular health*
- Mangosteen xanthones possess antibacterial and
antifungal properties*
- Mangosteen xanthones may help reverse the signs of
aging*
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 Noni
(Morinda citrifola) is an evergreen plant that is native
to Malaysia, Australia, and Polynesia. There is
reference to its use as a healing botanical in ancient
Sanskrit Ayurvedic (traditional medicine in India)
medical texts dating back thousands of years. It has
been used to treat many different health disorders over
the same period in multiple cultures, and it is only
recently that its biologically active components have
been identified and its healing properties have been
explained.
In the Noni fruit, scientists have identified
significant quantities of a precursor (proxeronine) to
the pharmacologically active substance called xeronine.
The proxeronine is ingested as part of the fruit and is
converted to xeronine in the digestive tract and is
subsequently absorbed into the body. Xeronine is
believed to play a significant role in the proper
synthesis and function of proteins that are crucial to
the health of each our body’s cells. Generally speaking,
this molecule has an influence on multiple organ systems
within our bodies and therefore can affect the proper
function of multiple cellular processes that all
contribute to our overall health. As a result, the list
of ailments that have been treated by the Noni fruit for
thousands of years is long and comprehensive. For this
reason, the noni fruit is considered by some cultures to
be a “cure all” for most health related complaints.
Certainly, in our sophisticated, technologically
advanced society, it is difficult to make that claim.
However, it is clear based on millennia of experience
that the noni fruit has some important healing
properties.
Noni, by itself is an amazing fruit with many health
benefits. But, in Agel EXO, it represents only a part of
the wonderful ensemble of 17 exotic fruits and herbs
from around the world.
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 The
Pomegranate (Punica granatum) has an extensive history
as a medicinal fruit. The first historical evidence of
pomegranate trees being planted dates back as far as
3000 BC. It has legendary medicinal properties that have
made it the subject of numerous myths, epics and works
of art from renowned artists including Raphael, Cezanne,
Homer, and even Shakespeare. In multiple regions of the
world, this wonderful fruit has been revered as a symbol
of health, fertility and of rebirth. It is native to the
Middle Eastern region of the world, but through the ages
has become a popular agricultural product all over the
globe.
The pomegranate fruit is a valuable source of potassium,
vitamin C and of polyphenols. It is likely a result of
the excellent antioxidant capacity of the polyphenols
that the pomegranate has been given such wide acclaim
through the ages. As modern day science has demonstrated
time and time again, antioxidants are valuable adjuncts
to healthy living. They are attributed to the reduction
and prevention of coronary artery disease (clogging of
the heart vessels), and even the prevention of some of
the biological processes that cause cancer and aging.
The pomegranate has a great history as a
health-enhancing fruit. And yet, it is but one of the 17
wonderful exotic fruits and herbs that make Agel EXO an
outstanding antioxidant gel.
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When ORAC testing first started, Prunes commanded the
highest ORAC rating. Therefore, Prunes have now
garnished a new nutritional reputation as a super
antioxidant. Prunes are also rich in vitamin A and C.
They are also rich in mineral cofactors potassium and
copper.
These antioxidants, vitamin coenzymes and mineral
cofactors support normal blood pressure, heart health,
bone health, colon health, blood sugar control, bowel
regularity and cardiovascular health. Because Prunes are
high in indigestible fiber they also support bowel
regularity & absorption of iron into the blood stream.
Prune contains as many as 50 antioxidants and the
highest ORAC value (5770) of common fruits (more than
blueberry, raspberry, and strawberry combined).
Prune Health Benefits:
- Prune antioxidants support cardiovascular health*
- Prunes are an excellent source of indigestible fiber
to support bowel regularity*
- Prune indigestible fiber supports health intestinal
microflora for immunity*
- Prune antioxidants fight the signs of aging*
- Prunes support normal blood sugar control*
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 Agel
EXO is a very effective blend of 17 highly concentrated
exotic fruit juices, purees and plant extracts coming
from countries across the globe. Individually they have
excellent antioxidant capacities, and when combined, the
result is an extraordinary antioxidant supplement. This
week, we want to explore one of the individual herbs
that make up this formulation. Let’s talk about Rooibos.
Rooibos is a shrub that is indigenous to the mountains
of South Africa’s Western Cape. More than 300 years ago,
the inhabitants of those mountains started collecting
Rooibos leaves and used them for making tea. During the
past 3 centuries, Rooibos tea has been used in various
cultures for many different medicinal purposes. It
contains many natural antioxidants, and unlike black
tea, it does not contain caffeine and has a very low
tannin content. Technically speaking, Rooibos is loaded
with polyphenols (flavinoids and phenolic acids). It is,
in large part, the high content of these antioxidants
that give it the qualities that make it a very useful
herb in the treatment of many different ailments. In
addition to helping counteract the oxidative stresses of
contemporary life, many South African herbalists use it
to help curb anxiety and even help with insomnia as it
presumably affects the metabolism of one of the brain
messengers (acetylcholine). In other cultures, it is
used to treat allergies, as it seems to interfere with
histamine. In addition, it is used to treat infant
colic, as it tends to have anti-spasmodic properties in
the intestines.
Rooibos is a wonderful herb in its own right. Now, with
Agel EXO, we can enjoy its unique antioxidant properties
in combination with 13 other fruits and herbs from all
around the world.
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Seabuckthorn is a small, yellow-orange to orange-red
berry with a sourish taste that are native to China,
Russia, and Mongolia. Seabuckthorn was used in China for
over 12 centuries where it was first used for
traditional Chinese medicine strengthening stomach,
blood circulation and respiration. Seabuckthorn is
currently used in juice, sports drinks, jellies, ice
cream, cosmetics and medicines.
Seabuckthon is rich in macronutrients and
micronutrients. Seabuckthorn contains vitamins B1, B2,
folic acid, C, E, beta-carotene (provitamin A), and K.
It contains carotenoids, flavonoids, phenols, terpenes
and at least 20 mineral cofactors. Seabuckthorn also
naturally contains 5-HT (serotonin), a neurotransmitter
that helps regulate emotions. Seabuckthorn numerous
health benefits include cardiovascular, immunity,
anticancer, memory, growth, anti-inflammatory, and skin
health. Seabuckthorn contains more than 60 antioxidants
and high ORAC value.
Seabuckthorn Health Benefits:
- Seabuckthorn may help regulate emotions and calm
nerves*
- Seabuckthorn antioxidants support cardiovascular
health*
- Seabuckthorn my reverse the age-related declines in
memory*
- Seabuckthorn nourishes a healthier skin from the
inside*
- Seabuckthorn possesses anti-inflammatory benefits*
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Wolfberry has been part of Chinese Traditional
Medicine for thousands of years - strengthening the
eyes, liver, diabetes, cancer, fatigue, kidney, and
nourishing the blood. Common names include Chinese
wolfberry, Lycium fruit, Lycii fruit and Goji berry
Wolfberry fruits are still used in many herbal formulas
to maintain overall health when suffering from chronic
conditions, such as weariness of the legs, dizziness and
ringing in the ear, visual degeneration, headaches,
insomnia, chronic liver diseases, diabetes,
tuberculosis, and hypertension.
Modern research has substantiated that wolfberries
maintain healthy immune system (including specific and
non-specific immune response), improve eye conditions,
support healthy liver function, and maintain healthy
blood pressure and blood sugar. Wolfberry antioxidants
(found mainly in the skin of the fruit) also support
cardiovascular health, reverse signs of aging, promote
blood circulation and quench reactive oxygen radicals.
Wolfberry contains 19 types of amino acids, 21 trace
mineral cofactors, more beta-carotene than carrots,
nearly as much Vitamin C as oranges, vitamin E, and
beneficial B-vitamins. Wolfberry polysaccharides
stimulate the immune response.
Wolfberry Health Benefits:
- Wolfberry polysaccharides stimulate the immune system
response*
- Wolfberry antioxidants enhance blood flow to the
entire body*
- Wolfberry maintains healthy blood pressure and blood
sugar levels*
- Wolfberry supplies energy for work and exercise*
- Wolfberry may protect liver health*
* Agel products are nutritional supplements that are are
not intended to cure or prevent any disease or illness.
They're just full of good stuff for your body!
For more information and references to scientific
studies and research, please visit
www.agel.com
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