Health News You Can Use
Vitamin Comparison - Vitamins, Multi-Vitamins and Nutrition
According to the National Center for Health Statistics, Americans men and women are living longer than ever. As of 2002, the life expectancy had reached a new high of 77.4 years -- up slightly from the year before. Additionally, the mortality rate has decreased for some leading causes of death, such as heart disease, stroke, accidents and cancer. Unfortunately, other leading causes of death, such as influenza and pneumonia, Alzheimer's disease, sepsis (blood poisoning), and high blood pressure, all saw increases in their mortality rates.
In today's turbulent climate, it is important for people to maintain their health and well-being, and as such, it is a good idea to take or plan on taking a daily multi-vitamin. But how can someone be sure that they're getting all of the necessary nutrients in those little pills? Sure, those store-bought products have great advertising, and they're sold almost everywhere, so they must be good enough, right?
Well, the truth is that these leading store-bought brands are often lacking in vital vitamins and minerals. In fact, these products may not even be telling the whole truth. For instance, while one leading brand states that it is "Always Complete. From A to Zinc," it is actually lacking in sufficient amounts of calcium and magnesium, plus many essential and important nutrients such as CoQ10 are missing entirely.
Unfortunately, many popular once-a-day vitamins don't have exactly what is needed for optimal health, as they do not go past the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Daily Value recommendations (DV%). The FDA does not require supplements to meet any efficacy standards. Further, the DV% are designed to prevent scurvy or beriberi but fail to take into account recent studies indicating far higher levels have other health benefits.
Today we are faced with far more pressing threats, such as aging and its associated diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, arthritis, osteoporosis and cancer. To meet these needs, Vitacost.com has formulated 11 superior multivitamins starting with NSI's Synergy Once a Day. This product provides far higher levels than DV% for many nutrients to promote optimal health. Thousands of studies have proven the importance of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants in protecting the body from free radicals and diseases, while maintaining general health and well-being.
For the purposes of this report, we have performed a side-by-side comparison of our NSI Synergy Once a Day Multi-Vitamin, with two leading daily multi-vitamins: One-A-Day® Essential Formula and Advanced Formula® Centrum®. Specific nutrients have been chosen and evaluated on these important criteria:
QUANTITY
The term "quantity" refers to each nutrient's level and whether they are at high enough amounts to provide therapeutic benefits. Lutein is an antioxidant that has shown remarkable effects on our vision, and the eyes, in general. It is believed that lutein serves as a protective filter for the macula in the eye, shielding it from potentially damaging light. And according to the National Eye Institute, studies have shown that lutein may aid in the eyes' protection from age-related macular degeneration, which is the leading cause of blindness among older adults. Based on research studies, 6-10 mg daily is the recommended dosage, and as the chart shows, NSI meets this requirement, whereas Centrum is far below the recommended amount with 0.25 mg, and One-A-Day is completely missing this nutrient.
Selenium is an essential trace mineral, and among its many benefits, it has been revealed that is activates an antioxidant found to be a powerful prostate cancer defense. A large landmark study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) showed that 200 mg of selenomethionine, selenium's most biologically available form, was proven to reduce the mortality of all cancer by 50% and to reduce the incidence by 37%! When it comes to this powerful and vital nutrient, NSI's 200 mcg provide 286% of the necessary amounts, while Centrum provides a mere 29% and is the wrong form, and One-A-Day is totally devoid of selenium.
NSI's Synergy Once A Day Multi-Vitamin has also been formulated with effective doses of alpha lipoic acid, coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), quercetin, and grape seed extract (ActiVin®), powerful antioxidants that are superior, compared to vitamin C and vitamin E alone. Meanwhile, Centrum and One-A-Day's daily multi-vitamins are completely lacking in all four of these antioxidants.
According to recent studies, Alpha lipoic acid (ALA), known as the "universal antioxidant," is capable of regenerating several other antioxidants back to their active states, including vitamins C and E, glutathione and CoQ10. ALA also possesses several benefits for protecting us against harmful elevations of blood sugar as we age.
Found throughout the body, coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) aids metabolic reactions, such as the transformation of food into ATP, the energy used by the body. However, it is especially beneficial for the heart, immune and nervous system. Various studies have shown the positive effects of CoQ10 on congestive heart failure, angina and hypertension. The typical diet only provides 1 mg, Synergy provides 10 mg and the other two multi-vitamins provide zero.
Quercetin (as a bioflavonoid), may reduce the risk of heart disease and strokes. It is an antioxidant and prevents damage (oxidation) to LDL cholesterol. Oxidized LDL cholesterol is one of the first steps that leads to heart attacks and strokes. Damage to this bad cholesterol is believed by cardiologists to be an underlying cause of heart disease. Also, quercetin blocks an enzyme responsible for sorbitol accumulation, which has been linked to diabetic nerve, eye, and kidney damage.
ActiVin® is a patented form of grape seed extract, a powerful antioxidant. In clinical trials, grape seed extract has demonstrated more potent free-radical scavenging activity than vitamin C, vitamin E and beta-carotene.
NSI's Synergy Once A Day Multi-Vitamin contains all of these powerful antioxidants -- 100 mg of ALA, 10 mg of CoQ10, 100 mg of Quercetin, and 50 mg of ActiVin - for added health benefits.
It is also necessary to discuss the topic of standardization, in regards to herbal supplements. When an herbal or plant-based supplement is "standardized," it means that it contains more of the herb's or plant's active ingredients. To achieve this standardization, it is necessary to isolate the small portion of the herb or plant holding the active ingredients that will produce the actual clinical benefit. NSI's herbal products are formulated with only standardized herbs. For example, NSI's daily multi-vitamin provides 6 mg of lutein from 120 mg standardized to a 5% net amount. This means that 120 mg gross of lutein is necessary to get 6 mg of the active form.
QUALITY
"Quality" is defined as the optimal and correct form of the included nutrients. Selenomethionine is the most biologically active form of selenium, and researchers have found that it possesses powerful cancer-fighting abilities, as well as other important health benefits.
In regards to cancer defense, there are an estimated 220,000 American men developing prostate cancer each year, with about 30,000 of them dying from the disease. However, a landmark 1996 double-blinded study -- involving over 1,300 individuals and lasting for several years - cemented selenium's role as a cancer fighter. This study, which was published in JAMA, found that those treated with 200 mcg of selenomethionine had a 63% reduction in prostate cancer incidence, as compared to a placebo group not taking this special form.
A1998 study, published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, involved over 30,000 physicians, and found that those with the highest selenium blood levels had an approximately two-thirds reduction in the incidence of the most malignant forms of prostate cancer. Another recent study, involving 58,000 men between the ages of 55 and 69, examined the risk factors for prostate cancer. The study's participants completed a questionnaire and provided toenail clippings for determination of baseline selenium levels, which was then followed by about six years of follow-up. It was found that those with the highest selenium levels experienced a reduction of prostate cancer by more than 30%. And for ex-smokers, these results were even more pronounced. These studies added weight to the hypothesis of increased selenium reducing the risk of prostate cancer.
Plus, in a double-blind trial for infertile men, selenium supplementation improved sperm cell motility (movement), while increasing the chance of conception. NSI's Synergy Daily Multi-Vitamin contains 200 mcg, which is 286% of the daily requirements, while Centrum contains only 29% of the wrong form, and One-A-Day has no selenium.
FORM
The term "form" refers to how the nutrient is present in the product, as well as how the product is packaged and presented to the consumer. NSI's Synergy Once a Day Multi-Vitamins are sold in easily-digestible, kosher gelatin capsules that are easy to swallow and that promote faster absorption. Meanwhile, both Centrum and One-A-Day's multi-vitamins are encased in hard tablets.
Ester-C ® is a unique form of vitamin C that contains naturally occurring metabolites. It is gentler on the digestive system, due to its patented manufacturing process, which neutralizes the pH. Plus, it offers more benefits over a longer period of time. NSI's Daily Multi-Vitamin contains 100 mg of this form, comprising 167% of the daily requirement, while Centrum and One-A-Day contain no Ester-C in their vitamin C.
NSI's Synergy Once a Day Multi-Vitamin contains 15 mg (100%) of L Opti-Zinc, a patented form of biologically active, methionine-bound zinc, that's up to 20 times more powerful as an antioxidant, when compared to other forms of zinc. Centrum's zinc is not in the L Opti-Zinc form, while One-A-Day's product contains no zinc at all. Zinc is an essential trace mineral, necessary for proper immune function, eye health, cardiovascular health, prostate health and healthy testosterone levels.
Many minerals can be utilized as "chelated" minerals, which are organic and function as much more powerful antioxidants. Copper, manganese and molybdenum are all crucial for health and well-being. However, only NSI contains these nutrients in their chelated forms, whereas the Centrum and One-A-Day products offer these nutrients in non-chelated forms.
The B vitamins are all important for our health, and NSI has taken the care to make our products as powerful and effective as possible. As such, we have provided these nutrients in far higher amounts than required, and in their optimal forms. One important function of the B vitamins is their demonstrated ability to reduce high homocysteine levels. Homocysteine, produced by the normal breakdown of methionine, an essential amino acid, is thought to cause various toxic effects. In fact, recent studies suggest that higher homocysteine levels are more dangerous than higher cholesterol levels. And, higher homocysteine levels are thought to increase the risk of heart disease.
The body requires vitamin B1 (thiamine) to: process carbohydrates, fat, and protein; process adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy of the cells; and to allow nerve cells to function normally. NSI's multi-vitamin's 30 mg provides 2,000% of the daily requirements of thiamine, as opposed to Centrum and One-A Day's less than 2%. Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) is required to: process fats and amino acids, activate folic acid and vitamin B6 (pyridoxine HCl); and help convert carbohydrates into ATP. Additionally, B2 can function as an antioxidant. NSI offers 10 mg for 588% of the daily requirements, while One-A-Day and Centrum both provide 1.7 mg for 100% of the daily requirements.
Niacinamide, a basic form of vitamin B3, is used during the process of releasing energy from carbohydrates. It is required to process alcohol and to form fat from. Only NSI contains this valuable form, at 30 mg for 150% of the requirements.
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine HCl) is the vitamin responsible for processing amino acids, which are the basic building blocks for all proteins and certain hormones -- serotonin, melatonin, and dopamine. As it aids in the formation of several neurotransmitters, B6 is essential for the regulating of mental processes, and it may also regulate moods. When combined with folic acid and vitamin B12, B6 effectively lowers homocysteine levels. And, in certain studies, vitamin B6 supplements were found to improve glucose tolerance in women with diabetes that was caused by pregnancy. NSI's 30 mg of vitamin B6 provides 1,500% of the daily requirements, as compared to Centrum and One-A-Day's 2 mg providing the basic daily requirements.
Vitamin B12 is another crucial B vitamin with the active form being methylcobalamin. Most company's use cyanocobalamin, a cheaper and less active, and therefore, less effective form of B12. This is the form used by both Centrum and One-A-Day. However, studies indicate superior benefits for methylcobalamin and for that reason, NSI's multi-vitamin contains this more potent and active form. B12 is responsible for DNA replication, normal nerve cell activity, and production of the mood-affecting substance SAMe (S-adenosyl-L-methionine). In addition, B12 aids in controlling homocysteine levels, and studies have shown that B12 may improve and reduce fatigue. The 500 mcg of B12 in NSI's daily multi-vitamin provide 8,333%, while the other brands contain the basic requirements of 6 mcg.
The remaining nutrient, vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), is a large factor in the Kreb's cycle of energy production. It is required to produce the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, as well as the production, transporting, and release of energy from fats. Pantothenic acid is required for cholesterol synthesis, which produces vitamin D and steroid hormones. In addition, pantothenic acid activates the adrenal glands, and its by-product, pantethine may lower the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. NSI provides 30 mg of B5 for 300% of the daily requirements, while One-A-Day provides 10 mg (the bare minimum), and Centrum is completely lacking.
WHAT WE DON'T NEED
In studies, increased iron intake has been linked with a variety of disorders and diseases, including diabetes, cancer, lupus, arthritis. The greatest danger may be that of excess iron leading to a higher risk of heart disease. Too much iron can cause a "pro-oxidant" effect, which leads to a build-up of dangerous free radicals. Free radicals can promote or worsen these diseases. Excess iron may also result in disorders such as hemochromatosis, hemosiderosis, polycythemia, and anemia. It is generally advised that unless a person has an iron deficiency diagnosed by blood tests and a doctor, a person should not take iron supplements. For these reasons, NSI Synergy Once a Day Multi-Vitamin has been formulated without any iron. And while One-A Day's daily multi-vitamin contains no iron, Centrum contains a whopping 18 mg.
NSI's Synergy Once a Day Multi-Vitamin is formulated to be free of any artificial colors, flavorings or preservatives. However, the same can't be said for the other leading brands. One-A-Day's product contains FD&C Blue #2 Lake coloring, while Centrum's product contains FD&C Yellow No. 6 Aluminum Lake coloring. Studies have linked aluminum and other heavy metals with the development of Alzheimer's disease. NSI products are free of any aluminum.
Buyer Beware: The True Cost Of Daily Health
It is also important in this comparison to discuss value. The common myth is that a person can get all the nutrients in a once-a-day vitamin. And it's true that once-a-day store brand vitamins may be less expensive. But while people may save a little money, if a product doesn't work, or if it is missing key ingredients, then where is the value? Also, people should take additional calcium and magnesium, regardless of the brand. It is physically impossible for any daily multi-vitamin at one pill per day to contain every nutrient at optimal levels required for optimal health. NSI recommends that 500 mg per day of calcium citrate malate, and 250 - 300 mg per day of magnesium should be taken.
With the rising cost of healthcare, taking a quality and effective daily multi-vitamin may be the less expensive route to reducing the risk of disease and maintaining good health. To that end, NSI supplements have been formulated to provide our customers with the best nutrients at their optimal levels. The NSI brand provides quality ingredients at the lowest prices possible. We feel that the best way to achieve this is to give people what they need and want, and to only give them the complete truth. We are dealing with people's health, and they should only have the best.
In today's turbulent climate, it is important for people to maintain their health and well-being, and as such, it is a good idea to take or plan on taking a daily multi-vitamin. But how can someone be sure that they're getting all of the necessary nutrients in those little pills? Sure, those store-bought products have great advertising, and they're sold almost everywhere, so they must be good enough, right?
Well, the truth is that these leading store-bought brands are often lacking in vital vitamins and minerals. In fact, these products may not even be telling the whole truth. For instance, while one leading brand states that it is "Always Complete. From A to Zinc," it is actually lacking in sufficient amounts of calcium and magnesium, plus many essential and important nutrients such as CoQ10 are missing entirely.
Unfortunately, many popular once-a-day vitamins don't have exactly what is needed for optimal health, as they do not go past the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Daily Value recommendations (DV%). The FDA does not require supplements to meet any efficacy standards. Further, the DV% are designed to prevent scurvy or beriberi but fail to take into account recent studies indicating far higher levels have other health benefits.
Today we are faced with far more pressing threats, such as aging and its associated diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, arthritis, osteoporosis and cancer. To meet these needs, Vitacost.com has formulated 11 superior multivitamins starting with NSI's Synergy Once a Day. This product provides far higher levels than DV% for many nutrients to promote optimal health. Thousands of studies have proven the importance of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants in protecting the body from free radicals and diseases, while maintaining general health and well-being.
For the purposes of this report, we have performed a side-by-side comparison of our NSI Synergy Once a Day Multi-Vitamin, with two leading daily multi-vitamins: One-A-Day® Essential Formula and Advanced Formula® Centrum®. Specific nutrients have been chosen and evaluated on these important criteria:
- Quantity
- Quality
- Form
- What We Don't Need
QUANTITY
| NSI | ONE-A-DAY | CENTRUM | |||||
| |||||||
 | Amount | %DV | Amount | %DV | Amount | %DV | |
| |||||||
| 6 mg | * | N/A | * | 250 mcg | * | ||
| (120 mg standardized to 5%) | (0.25 mg) | ||||||
| |||||||
| 200 mcg | 286% | N/A | * | 20 mcg | 29% | ||
| (selenomethionine) | (0.02mg) | ||||||
| |||||||
| 100 mg | * | N/A | * | N/A | * | ||
| |||||||
| 10 mg | * | N/A | * | N/A | * | ||
| |||||||
| 100 mg | * | N/A | * | N/A | * | ||
| |||||||
| 50 mg | * | N/A | * | N/A | * | ||
The term "quantity" refers to each nutrient's level and whether they are at high enough amounts to provide therapeutic benefits. Lutein is an antioxidant that has shown remarkable effects on our vision, and the eyes, in general. It is believed that lutein serves as a protective filter for the macula in the eye, shielding it from potentially damaging light. And according to the National Eye Institute, studies have shown that lutein may aid in the eyes' protection from age-related macular degeneration, which is the leading cause of blindness among older adults. Based on research studies, 6-10 mg daily is the recommended dosage, and as the chart shows, NSI meets this requirement, whereas Centrum is far below the recommended amount with 0.25 mg, and One-A-Day is completely missing this nutrient.
Selenium is an essential trace mineral, and among its many benefits, it has been revealed that is activates an antioxidant found to be a powerful prostate cancer defense. A large landmark study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) showed that 200 mg of selenomethionine, selenium's most biologically available form, was proven to reduce the mortality of all cancer by 50% and to reduce the incidence by 37%! When it comes to this powerful and vital nutrient, NSI's 200 mcg provide 286% of the necessary amounts, while Centrum provides a mere 29% and is the wrong form, and One-A-Day is totally devoid of selenium.
NSI's Synergy Once A Day Multi-Vitamin has also been formulated with effective doses of alpha lipoic acid, coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), quercetin, and grape seed extract (ActiVin®), powerful antioxidants that are superior, compared to vitamin C and vitamin E alone. Meanwhile, Centrum and One-A-Day's daily multi-vitamins are completely lacking in all four of these antioxidants.
According to recent studies, Alpha lipoic acid (ALA), known as the "universal antioxidant," is capable of regenerating several other antioxidants back to their active states, including vitamins C and E, glutathione and CoQ10. ALA also possesses several benefits for protecting us against harmful elevations of blood sugar as we age.
Found throughout the body, coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) aids metabolic reactions, such as the transformation of food into ATP, the energy used by the body. However, it is especially beneficial for the heart, immune and nervous system. Various studies have shown the positive effects of CoQ10 on congestive heart failure, angina and hypertension. The typical diet only provides 1 mg, Synergy provides 10 mg and the other two multi-vitamins provide zero.
Quercetin (as a bioflavonoid), may reduce the risk of heart disease and strokes. It is an antioxidant and prevents damage (oxidation) to LDL cholesterol. Oxidized LDL cholesterol is one of the first steps that leads to heart attacks and strokes. Damage to this bad cholesterol is believed by cardiologists to be an underlying cause of heart disease. Also, quercetin blocks an enzyme responsible for sorbitol accumulation, which has been linked to diabetic nerve, eye, and kidney damage.
ActiVin® is a patented form of grape seed extract, a powerful antioxidant. In clinical trials, grape seed extract has demonstrated more potent free-radical scavenging activity than vitamin C, vitamin E and beta-carotene.
NSI's Synergy Once A Day Multi-Vitamin contains all of these powerful antioxidants -- 100 mg of ALA, 10 mg of CoQ10, 100 mg of Quercetin, and 50 mg of ActiVin - for added health benefits.
It is also necessary to discuss the topic of standardization, in regards to herbal supplements. When an herbal or plant-based supplement is "standardized," it means that it contains more of the herb's or plant's active ingredients. To achieve this standardization, it is necessary to isolate the small portion of the herb or plant holding the active ingredients that will produce the actual clinical benefit. NSI's herbal products are formulated with only standardized herbs. For example, NSI's daily multi-vitamin provides 6 mg of lutein from 120 mg standardized to a 5% net amount. This means that 120 mg gross of lutein is necessary to get 6 mg of the active form.
QUALITY
| NSI | ONE-A-DAY | CENTRUM | |||||
| |||||||
| Amount | %DV | Amount | %DV | Amount | %DV | |
| |||||||
| 200 mcg | 286% | N/A | * | 20 mcg | 29% | ||
| (selenomethionine) | (0.02 mg) | ||||||
"Quality" is defined as the optimal and correct form of the included nutrients. Selenomethionine is the most biologically active form of selenium, and researchers have found that it possesses powerful cancer-fighting abilities, as well as other important health benefits.
In regards to cancer defense, there are an estimated 220,000 American men developing prostate cancer each year, with about 30,000 of them dying from the disease. However, a landmark 1996 double-blinded study -- involving over 1,300 individuals and lasting for several years - cemented selenium's role as a cancer fighter. This study, which was published in JAMA, found that those treated with 200 mcg of selenomethionine had a 63% reduction in prostate cancer incidence, as compared to a placebo group not taking this special form.
A1998 study, published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, involved over 30,000 physicians, and found that those with the highest selenium blood levels had an approximately two-thirds reduction in the incidence of the most malignant forms of prostate cancer. Another recent study, involving 58,000 men between the ages of 55 and 69, examined the risk factors for prostate cancer. The study's participants completed a questionnaire and provided toenail clippings for determination of baseline selenium levels, which was then followed by about six years of follow-up. It was found that those with the highest selenium levels experienced a reduction of prostate cancer by more than 30%. And for ex-smokers, these results were even more pronounced. These studies added weight to the hypothesis of increased selenium reducing the risk of prostate cancer.
Plus, in a double-blind trial for infertile men, selenium supplementation improved sperm cell motility (movement), while increasing the chance of conception. NSI's Synergy Daily Multi-Vitamin contains 200 mcg, which is 286% of the daily requirements, while Centrum contains only 29% of the wrong form, and One-A-Day has no selenium.
FORM
| NSI | ONE-A-DAY | CENTRUM | |||||
| |||||||
| Amount | %DV | Amount | %DV | Amount | %DV | |
| |||||||
| 100 mg | 167% | 60 mg | 100% | 60 mg | 100% | ||
| (magnesium ascorbate) (Ester-C®) | (no Ester-C) | (no Ester-C) | |||||
| |||||||
| 200 mcg | 286% | N/A | * | 20 mcg | 29% | ||
| (selenomethionine) | (0.02mg) | ||||||
| |||||||
| 15 mg | 100% | N/A | * | 15 mg | 100% | ||
| (L Opti-Zinc) | (no L Opti-Zinc) | ||||||
Chelated Minerals: | |||||||
| |||||||
| 1 mg | 50% | N/A | * | 2 mg | 100% | ||
| (as amino acid chelate) | (no amino acid chelate) | ||||||
| |||||||
| 10 mg | 500% | N/A | * | 2mg | 100% | ||
| (as amino acid chelate) | (no amino acid chelate) | ||||||
| |||||||
| 75 mcg | 100% | N/A | * | 75 mcg | 100% | ||
| (as amino acid chelate) | (no amino acid chelate) | ||||||
B Vitamins: | |||||||
| |||||||
| 30 mg | 2,000% | 1.5 mg | 100% | <2% | * | ||
| |||||||
| 10 mg | 588% | 1.7 mg | 100% | <2% | * | ||
| |||||||
| 30 mg | 150% | N/A | * | N/A | * | ||
| |||||||
| 30 mg | 1,500% | 2 mg | 100% | 2 mg | 100% | ||
| |||||||
| 500 mcg | 8,333% | 6 mcg | 100% | 6 mcg | 100% | ||
| (methylco- balamin) | (cyanoco- balamin) | (cyanoco- balamin) | |||||
| |||||||
| 30 mg | 300% | 10 mg | 100% | N/A | * | ||
The term "form" refers to how the nutrient is present in the product, as well as how the product is packaged and presented to the consumer. NSI's Synergy Once a Day Multi-Vitamins are sold in easily-digestible, kosher gelatin capsules that are easy to swallow and that promote faster absorption. Meanwhile, both Centrum and One-A-Day's multi-vitamins are encased in hard tablets.
Ester-C ® is a unique form of vitamin C that contains naturally occurring metabolites. It is gentler on the digestive system, due to its patented manufacturing process, which neutralizes the pH. Plus, it offers more benefits over a longer period of time. NSI's Daily Multi-Vitamin contains 100 mg of this form, comprising 167% of the daily requirement, while Centrum and One-A-Day contain no Ester-C in their vitamin C.
NSI's Synergy Once a Day Multi-Vitamin contains 15 mg (100%) of L Opti-Zinc, a patented form of biologically active, methionine-bound zinc, that's up to 20 times more powerful as an antioxidant, when compared to other forms of zinc. Centrum's zinc is not in the L Opti-Zinc form, while One-A-Day's product contains no zinc at all. Zinc is an essential trace mineral, necessary for proper immune function, eye health, cardiovascular health, prostate health and healthy testosterone levels.
Many minerals can be utilized as "chelated" minerals, which are organic and function as much more powerful antioxidants. Copper, manganese and molybdenum are all crucial for health and well-being. However, only NSI contains these nutrients in their chelated forms, whereas the Centrum and One-A-Day products offer these nutrients in non-chelated forms.
The B vitamins are all important for our health, and NSI has taken the care to make our products as powerful and effective as possible. As such, we have provided these nutrients in far higher amounts than required, and in their optimal forms. One important function of the B vitamins is their demonstrated ability to reduce high homocysteine levels. Homocysteine, produced by the normal breakdown of methionine, an essential amino acid, is thought to cause various toxic effects. In fact, recent studies suggest that higher homocysteine levels are more dangerous than higher cholesterol levels. And, higher homocysteine levels are thought to increase the risk of heart disease.
The body requires vitamin B1 (thiamine) to: process carbohydrates, fat, and protein; process adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy of the cells; and to allow nerve cells to function normally. NSI's multi-vitamin's 30 mg provides 2,000% of the daily requirements of thiamine, as opposed to Centrum and One-A Day's less than 2%. Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) is required to: process fats and amino acids, activate folic acid and vitamin B6 (pyridoxine HCl); and help convert carbohydrates into ATP. Additionally, B2 can function as an antioxidant. NSI offers 10 mg for 588% of the daily requirements, while One-A-Day and Centrum both provide 1.7 mg for 100% of the daily requirements.
Niacinamide, a basic form of vitamin B3, is used during the process of releasing energy from carbohydrates. It is required to process alcohol and to form fat from. Only NSI contains this valuable form, at 30 mg for 150% of the requirements.
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine HCl) is the vitamin responsible for processing amino acids, which are the basic building blocks for all proteins and certain hormones -- serotonin, melatonin, and dopamine. As it aids in the formation of several neurotransmitters, B6 is essential for the regulating of mental processes, and it may also regulate moods. When combined with folic acid and vitamin B12, B6 effectively lowers homocysteine levels. And, in certain studies, vitamin B6 supplements were found to improve glucose tolerance in women with diabetes that was caused by pregnancy. NSI's 30 mg of vitamin B6 provides 1,500% of the daily requirements, as compared to Centrum and One-A-Day's 2 mg providing the basic daily requirements.
Vitamin B12 is another crucial B vitamin with the active form being methylcobalamin. Most company's use cyanocobalamin, a cheaper and less active, and therefore, less effective form of B12. This is the form used by both Centrum and One-A-Day. However, studies indicate superior benefits for methylcobalamin and for that reason, NSI's multi-vitamin contains this more potent and active form. B12 is responsible for DNA replication, normal nerve cell activity, and production of the mood-affecting substance SAMe (S-adenosyl-L-methionine). In addition, B12 aids in controlling homocysteine levels, and studies have shown that B12 may improve and reduce fatigue. The 500 mcg of B12 in NSI's daily multi-vitamin provide 8,333%, while the other brands contain the basic requirements of 6 mcg.
The remaining nutrient, vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), is a large factor in the Kreb's cycle of energy production. It is required to produce the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, as well as the production, transporting, and release of energy from fats. Pantothenic acid is required for cholesterol synthesis, which produces vitamin D and steroid hormones. In addition, pantothenic acid activates the adrenal glands, and its by-product, pantethine may lower the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. NSI provides 30 mg of B5 for 300% of the daily requirements, while One-A-Day provides 10 mg (the bare minimum), and Centrum is completely lacking.
WHAT WE DON'T NEED
| NSI | ONE-A-DAY | CENTRUM | |||||
| |||||||
| Amount | %DV | Amount | %DV | Amount | %DV | |
| |||||||
| N/A | * | N/A | * | 100% | 18% | ||
| |||||||
| NO | * | YES | * | YES | * | ||
In studies, increased iron intake has been linked with a variety of disorders and diseases, including diabetes, cancer, lupus, arthritis. The greatest danger may be that of excess iron leading to a higher risk of heart disease. Too much iron can cause a "pro-oxidant" effect, which leads to a build-up of dangerous free radicals. Free radicals can promote or worsen these diseases. Excess iron may also result in disorders such as hemochromatosis, hemosiderosis, polycythemia, and anemia. It is generally advised that unless a person has an iron deficiency diagnosed by blood tests and a doctor, a person should not take iron supplements. For these reasons, NSI Synergy Once a Day Multi-Vitamin has been formulated without any iron. And while One-A Day's daily multi-vitamin contains no iron, Centrum contains a whopping 18 mg.
NSI's Synergy Once a Day Multi-Vitamin is formulated to be free of any artificial colors, flavorings or preservatives. However, the same can't be said for the other leading brands. One-A-Day's product contains FD&C Blue #2 Lake coloring, while Centrum's product contains FD&C Yellow No. 6 Aluminum Lake coloring. Studies have linked aluminum and other heavy metals with the development of Alzheimer's disease. NSI products are free of any aluminum.
Buyer Beware: The True Cost Of Daily Health
It is also important in this comparison to discuss value. The common myth is that a person can get all the nutrients in a once-a-day vitamin. And it's true that once-a-day store brand vitamins may be less expensive. But while people may save a little money, if a product doesn't work, or if it is missing key ingredients, then where is the value? Also, people should take additional calcium and magnesium, regardless of the brand. It is physically impossible for any daily multi-vitamin at one pill per day to contain every nutrient at optimal levels required for optimal health. NSI recommends that 500 mg per day of calcium citrate malate, and 250 - 300 mg per day of magnesium should be taken.
With the rising cost of healthcare, taking a quality and effective daily multi-vitamin may be the less expensive route to reducing the risk of disease and maintaining good health. To that end, NSI supplements have been formulated to provide our customers with the best nutrients at their optimal levels. The NSI brand provides quality ingredients at the lowest prices possible. We feel that the best way to achieve this is to give people what they need and want, and to only give them the complete truth. We are dealing with people's health, and they should only have the best.
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