Blackcurrant Capsules

Brand

Lifestream

Size

60 Capsules

Common Uses

Eye health- Long term computer use has now become a necessary part of modern life and with this brings the rise of computer-related eye problems including eyestrain and eye fatigue. The inclusion of dietary Blackcurrant Anthocyanins helps alleviate vision problems attributable to working with computers and visual display terminals. The natural effects of ageing can cause problems with the circulatory system of the eye. Blackcurrant extracts help microcapillary circulation and provide antioxidant protection to the eye therefore assisting with overall eye health.

Supporting brain function- Along with the benefits to eye health, blackcurrant extracts have been shown to help with brain function and nutrition by supporting the chemical transmitter balance. A healthy blood flow to the brain is crucial for full mental function and helps maintain focus and mental alertness.

Antioxidant power of Blackcurrants Stresses due to our modern lifestyle (processed food, chemicals and environmental pollutants) contribute to an increase in the damage caused by free radicals. Damage to body tissues, brain cells and the immune system by free radicals is called oxidative damage. It is well known that fruits and vegetables however are richer sources of antioxidants which help the human body to mop up free radicals. Some fruits and vegetables however are richer sources of antioxidants than others - blackcurrants exhibit potent antioxidant activity. Consuming dietary antioxidants supports the natural potential of your body to remain healthy and keep youthful and helps to maintain cell integrity in the face of free radical damage.

Suggested Dosage

Adults: Take one capsule daily. Children 6 - 12 years: As directed by your health professional.

Health Information

Scientific Research; Blackcurrants and Eye Health A study done in Tokyo showed that supplementation of 50mg of blackcurrant anthocyanins helped to alleviate eye fatigue caused by visual tasks at a computer screen. The same study also showed that anthocyanin supplementation helped support the eyes in adjusting to darkness.

Blackcurrants and Cell Protection In a study conducted by Horticulture and Food Research Institute of New Zealand Ltd Blackcurrant extracts demonstrated protective effects on human cells exposed in the laboratory to the hydrogen peroxide oxidative challenge. Anthocyanin and non-anthocyanin fractions of blackcurrant were able to protect cells against hydrogen peroxide-induced cell toxicity effects. It is possible that the different anthocyanins and phenolics present in blackcurrant extract synergise with each other to give enhanced oxidative protection.

Blackcurrants and the Antioxidant Effect A study comparing the antioxidant capabilities of Blackcurrant, Blackberries and Vaccinium berries (bilberries and blueberries) conducted at the University of Modena, Italy, showed remarkably high antioxidant activity in all these berries. Further to this, blackcurrant extracts exhibited the highest antioxidant activity, being the richest in both anthocyanins and polyphenols. The blackcurrant extract also contained more active substances than the other extracts. Berries were believed to be a large part of our early diet. Our ancestors probably consumed far more berries and hence anthocyanins than we do. The modern diet by comparison could be said to be deficient in anthocyanins. With international scientific research now discovering the health benefits and antioxidant power of these compounds in the berries; perhaps we can remedy the deficiency.

Lifestream Bioactive Blackcurrant capsules are standardised to contain 60mg of Anthocyanins per capsule with each capsule packed with the goodness of over 20 fresh New Zealand blackcurrants!

What are anthocyanins? The dark purple colour of blackcurrants is due to anthocyanins which are water soluble plant pigments that reflect the red to blue range of the visible spectrum. Anthocyanins belong to a class of compounds called flavonoids. Anthocyanins protect plants against strong UV light by absorbing certain wavelengths. In this way DNA damage in the cell is prevented. Anthocyanins also bind free radicals which develop with plant stress. Generally speaking, the brighter the vegetable or fruit, the more antioxidant power and nutrients that are present. Green vegetables are packed with Vitamin C and Vitamin E. Yellow, orange and red coloured vegetables are packed with carotenoids, but the most powerful of all on a comparison basis are the purple-blue coloured fruits or vegetables. They contain phenolics, flavonoids and the super antioxidant; anthocyanin.

Ingredients

Each one vegetarian capsule contains; Ribes nigrum (Blackcurrant) standardised extract equivalent to dry fruit: 12g, containing Anthocyanins: 60mg.

Safety Information

Capsules are not recommended for small children due to the risk of choking . Store below 30 degrees Celsius. Keep dry and tightly sealed. Do not use if cap seal is missing or broken.