| Q1. |
I have read that carnitine supplements have an effect on thyroid function. What would be the expected effect on someone with hypothyroisim? Or is carnitine contra-indicated for a person with hypothyroidism? |
| A1. |
There is what is considered a "moderate" interaction between L-carnitine and thyroid hormone (often taken in hypothyroidism conditions).
Although not understood completely, it appears that L-carnitine may be an antagonist of thyroid hormone, and has been shown to be beneficial in those suffering from hyperthyroidism. In one study, 2-4 grams of L-carnitine improved symptoms of hyperthyroidism, suggesting that it blocked thyroid hormone's actions (Benvenga et al 2001). In vitro trials have also indicated that L-carnitine inhibits thyroid hormones T3 and T4 entry into peripheral cells (Benvenga et al 2004). Although there are no published human clinical trials measuring the effects of L-carnitine on thyroid function or thyroid hormone levels, it can be assumed that it may have a inhibitory effect on thyroid hormone and therefore contraindicated in those with hypothyroid conditions. More studies are warranted to determine exactly what this effect is and to what extent the effect is in humans. |
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| Q2. |
What is modified cellulose and is it safe? |
| A2. |
The cellulose is derived from alpha cellulose from softwood pulp. This softwood pulp may be derived from hemlock, spruce or other soft woods. It is made by cooking raw plant fiber in an aqueous solution to separate the cellulose, and then purified. It then goes through extra processing to further break down the fiber. The finished product contains no residual solvents. Excipients are needed to make the materials flow into the capsule and are extremely minute in amounts and are safe. |
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| Q3. |
I am somewhat confused on how to take the DRB products. On many of the labels the Suggested Adult Use will list something along the lines of: Take 2 capsules daily, but it does not state whether they should be taken together or separately. What is the correct usage? |
| A3. |
Unless otherwise specified on the label, the product may be taken together or separately. |
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| Q4. |
Is there a limit to how many vitamins can be taken safely in one day? |
| A4. |
While our bodies need vitamins and minerals, like other things, if taken in large amounts they may adversely affect health. Large amounts of anything can be toxic. It is important to follow all label directions and discuss any concerns with your physician. |
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| Q5. |
What are the other ingredients and why are they used? |
| A5. |
These are used as flow agents and aid in the production to keep the machinery running smoothly and the capsules filling correctly. Similarly for the croscarmellose sodium, which is cellulose (sourced from the cell walls of green plants), and is used to help disintegrate the tablet in the stomach. |
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| Q6. |
What is Silicon Dioxide and how is it produced? |
| A6. |
Silicon dioxide is the most abundant mineral in the Earth’s crust, and it is found across the world in various forms. Silicon dioxide (SiO2) in its pure form is colorless to white. Precipitated synthetic amorphous silicas are obtained from a process essentially using sand.
Precipitated silica is a safe (non-crystalline) mineral. According to the relevant United States and European Union standards, precipitated silica is non-hazardous with regard to manufacture, transportation and handling. Precipitated silica is an inert powder and a certified food and feed additive. |
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| Q7. |
Should I be concerned when I see that Silicon Dioxide has been used as an excipient in DRB products? |
| A7. |
According to numerous studies reviewed to date on this long-term Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) listed food additive, the following was found:
The oral toxicity in mice is greater than (>) 5 grams/kilogram of body weight (Kimmerle 1968), or greater than 350 grams in one dose in humans based on allometric comparisons between mice and humans.
A single dose of 2.5 grams of amorphous polymeric silicon dioxide to human volunteers did not significantly raise the SiO2 excretion in the urine thus suggesting poor absorption of the compound (silicon dioxide)--(Langendorf 1966). Less than one one-hundredth (1000th) of the dose was found in urine, suggesting extremely poor absorption--(Langendorf 1966).
This would suggest that there is no scientific reason to eliminate silicon dioxide as an excipient at the very low levels found in dietary supplements.
For further information re: Silicon dioxide, see "Minerals, Trace Elements and Human Health, 4th Edition." |
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| Q8. |
Why is silicon dioxide used as an excipient in DRB products? |
| A8. |
Silicon Dioxide is commonly used as a flow agent in supplements. It also works as an anti-caking agent, and is added as an ingredient in foods, many multivitamins and mineral supplements because silicon is necessary for good health and is a necessary nutrient for the health of skin, hair, nails and bones. |
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| Q9. |
It seems that information is now out claiming that magnesium stearate is a form of, or implicated in, trans fat, which everyone now regards as being bad. Why does Doctor’s Best use magnesium stearate in its products? |
| A9. |
Magnesium Stearate is used to work as a lubricant in the formula. Magnesium Stearate is a salt of stearic acid. Stearic acid is a saturated fatty acid. A trans fatty acid (commonly shortened to trans fat) is an unsaturated fatty acid molecule. Stearic acid, being a saturated fatty acid, is not a trans fat. The magnesium stearate used in Doctor’s Best products is vegetable sourced from palm oil. |
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| Q10. |
What is cellulose and modified cellulose produced from? |
| A10. |
Southern pine and spruce. |
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| Q11. |
What is the source of the cellulose found in the some of the Doctor’s Best products? |
| A11. |
The cellulose is made from alpha cellulose from softwood pulp. This softwood pulp may be derived from hemlock, Spruce or other soft woods. |
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| Q12. |
Since Doctor's Best does not manufacture its supplements, how are the purity and integrity of supplements verified? In addition, how are your prices lower than other brands? Does this mean that quality is being compromised? |
| A12. |
Doctor's Best supplements are manufactured in the US at cGMP (current Good Manufacturing Practice) certified facilities. All of our manufacturers and suppliers go through our vendor qualification program, which includes inspections and testing, before we agree to work with them. Our finished products have also been tested at the raw material level, in process, and as a finished product to ensure safety and quality. We place the highest importance on safety and quality and do not compromise for the sake of a better price point. The price points are lower because of production size and the overall business structure. We also place great importance on making our supplements available and affordable to those who need them most. |
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| Q13. |
What is HPLC? |
| A13. |
HPLC stands for "High Performance Liquid Chromatography." This is an analytical lab testing method that is used to quantify the active ingredients. It is considered to be a very sensitive and accurate test. HPLC testing is a tool recognized as a quality benchmark for herbal extracts. |
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| Q14. |
Does cellulose interfere with the absorption of supplements? |
| A14. |
Dietary fiber in general is known to change intestinal viscosity, nutrient absorption, transit time, and gut hormones. Although there is some evidence from animal studies that large amounts of cellulose in the diet (6-12% of diet) can interfere with nutrient absorption (particularly minerals), there is no evidence that the small amount in capsules interfere with nutrient absorption, as there are many pharmacokinetic studies that have been conducted with nutrients in cellulose capsules, demonstrating the ability of the nutrients to be effectively absorbed. |
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