Mechanism
Ferrous Asparato Glycinate is a novel compound complex of aspartic acid & glycine with iron. It is also a chelated iron which is better tolerated and absorbed compared to other forms of iron, allowing for lower iron dosing.
It plays a central role in the hemoglobin molecule of our red blood cells (RBC), where it functions in transporting oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues. It also functions in several key enzymes in energy production and metabolism, including DNA synthesis.
Cyanocobalamin is a form of Vitamin B12, a vitamin that has strong effects on the brain and nervous system while also being important for cell growth and reproduction. Adequate intake of methylcobalamin is especially important for pregnant women, as a severe deficiency can have disastrous consequences on the developing nervous system of a fetus, yet be difficult to detect.
In the body, methylcobalamin is used in a variety of processes, including: the production of red and white blood cells, the regeneration of RNA and DNA, the conversion of fats, carbohydrates, and protein to energy, the synthesizing of proteins and fats, nerve cell and sheath maintenance, methylations (a type of chemical reaction affecting DNA expression), brain function maintenance, choline synthesis, maintenance of epithelial and mucous membrane cells, maintenance of normal bone marrow, and maintenance of a normal gastrointestinal tract.
Zinc is an essential mineral known to be important for many biological functions including protein synthesis, cellular division and nucleic acid metabolism. Severe zinc deficiency is rare in humans, but mild to moderate deficiency may be common, especially in populations with low consumption of zinc-rich animal-source foods and high intakes of foods rich in phytates, which inhibit zinc absorption. It is estimated that over 80% of pregnant women worldwide have inadequate zinc intake.
It has been suggested that maternal zinc deficiency may compromise infant development and lead to poor birth outcomes. Low plasma zinc concentrations reduce placental zinc transport and may affect the supply of zinc to the fetus. Zinc deficiency also alters circulating levels of a number of hormones associated with the onset of labour, and because zinc is essential for normal immune function, deficiency may contribute to systemic and intra-uterine infections, both major causes of pre-term birth. Low birth weight and prematurity are significant risk factors for neonatal and infant morbidity and mortality. Zinc supplementation may improve pregnancy outcomes for mothers and infants.
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Beta-sitosterol absorbed in intestine; nettle root extract absorbed via gut mucosa.
- Distribution: Plant sterols distributed to plasma and tissues; nettle phytochemicals circulate systemically.
- Metabolism: Beta-sitosterol metabolized in liver; nettle extract metabolized to active compounds.
- Excretion: Sterols via bile and feces; nettle metabolites via urine.
Side Effects
- Mild gastrointestinal upset
- Allergic reactions (rare)
- Headache or dizziness
Contraindication
- Hypersensitivity to plant sterols or nettle
- Pregnancy & lactation (not recommended)
- Severe hepatic or renal impairment
Interaction
- Antihypertensives: May enhance blood pressure-lowering effect.
- Anticoagulants: Nettle root may increase bleeding risk.
- Hormonal therapy: May interfere with androgen metabolism.
Warning and Precautions
- Monitor urinary symptoms during therapy.
- Use with caution in patients on anticoagulants.
- Pregnancy/lactation: Supplementation only under medical supervision.
Dosage
As directed by the Dietician.
