According to Charaka Samhita, life itself is defined as the “combination of the body, sense organs, mind and soul, the factor responsible for preventing decay and death, which sustains the body over time, and guides the processes of rebirth.” And the practice of Ayurveda, which aims to create dynamic balance in all areas of health, is growing in popularity as one of humankind's most ancient systems for sustaining life.
Spearheading this movement are doctors and practitioners whose own undisputed success in helping people reclaim their health using Ayurvedic practices has made them household names. Zrii has taken their recommendations to create a product that captures and applies the wisdom of the “science of life.”
The result is Zrii, a drink so nutritionally complete that it has no equal in all of history.
Scientific Advisory Board- Research Update, February 2009
The Zrii Scientific Advisory Board (SAB) is excited to begin sharing the initial results from a series of recent studies conducted on Zrii. These relate to the positive impact of the product on four primary physiological areas*
- Bio-availability at a Cellular Level
- Oxidative Stress Protection
- Mitochondrial and Immune Protection
- Anti-Inflammatory Activity
The tests were conducted on living human cells by an independent, award-winning research laboratory. We will summarize initial findings below and supply the completed research later in the month.
We also recently received the coveted Low Glycemic Food Certification from the leading clinical glycemic lab in North America. This is also summarized below, along with other certifications we have obtained and continuing research in the area of digestion.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
I. Cell-Based Assay Research
CAP-e Antioxidant Protection
We began our research by examining whether the antioxidants in Zrii were able to enter into and protect live, human cells from oxidative damages.
Through utilizing the CAP-e Antioxidant Protection Assay, we found that the antioxidants could, in fact, enter into and protect human cells. As stated in the summary of the research by the award-winning research laboratory conducting the tests:
“Zrii contains antioxidants able to enter into and protect cells from oxidative damage. Thus, compounds in Zrii are bio-available at the cellular level.”
-Gitte Jensen Ph.D., NIS Labs, Summary of Analysis, September 29, 2008.
Primary Cell-Based Assays on Zrii
The next step was to analyze the effects of the product on several other cell-based assays.
Study Parameters:
- Evaluation of protection of mitochondrial function in the absence versus presence of oxidative stress (CAP-m);
- Evaluation of protection of cellular viability (protection from programmed cell death [apoptosis]) in the absence versus presence of oxidative stress (CAP-a);
- Evaluation of effects on anti-inflammatory versus immune surveillance behavior of the PMN cell.
Summary of Observations*:
In its summary of findings, NIS Labs found that Zrii:
- Increased mitochondrial function in PMN (polymorphonuclear leucocytes) cells;
- Maintained cell viability under normal and induced oxidative stress;
- Increased the migration of PMN cells (considered part of normal immune surveillance);
- Increased the migration of PMN cells towards a bacterial peptide f-MLP
- (considered a model for one important aspect of our anti-bacterial immune defense mechanisms);
- Reduced the migration of PMN cells towards LTB4 inflammatory mediators.
In the words of the research institution:
“Zrii supported cellular viability and energy formation, as well as key aspects of the innate (immediate) anti-bacterial immune response. The antioxidant capacity and anti-inflammatory properties of Zrii would indicate that Zrii may boost the immune defense mechanisms while protecting the body’s own cells from the resulting oxidative stress.”
*-Gitte Jensen Ph.D., NIS Labs, Summary of Analysis, December 09, 2008.
In the coming weeks, we will be posting research papers summarizing the analytical data collected in these studies, along with charts and graphs making them easier to understand.
Dr. Tom’s Explanation of Cell-Based Assay Findings
In the meantime, Dr. Tom has written an explanation of what these cell-based assays mean and why they’re important:
Thomas Yarema M.D.
“Normal cellular living processes involve the release of free radicals to fight viruses, kill cancer cells and to destroy bacteria. These processes are called Oxidation. These processes must be appropriately targeted and of short duration. If they are not, then substantial collateral damage occurs to surrounding tissue.
Anti-oxidants present in blood, cells and tissue fluids maintain the focus of Oxidative processes, and help prevent the collateral damage to surrounding healthy tissues.
Recent research has shown that deficits of antioxidants during chronic inflammatory conditions such as pollution, smoke, sunlight and toxins causes an accelerated and exaggerated oxidative response, provoking additional inflammation, and leading to many degenerative diseases and accelerated aging. Obesity, immune dysfunction, cardiovascular disease, diminished cognitive function and cancer all share these features of unchecked oxidation; thus, research to identify effective anti-oxidants and quantify their abilities have been a focus of the nutritional industry.
Testing has focused upon biochemical assays of Oxidative chemical reactions in fluid nutrient fluids or bodily fluids, or human studies looking at clinical results with specific nutritional supplementation. ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) has been used as a relatively easy, inexpensive method to test bodily fluids or extracts of nutrients. However, this biochemical reaction method does not always correspond to clinical outcomes since it is only a laboratory or biochemical test. Clearly, there are more complex mechanisms of benefit at work than the limited series of chemical reactions measured by ORAC. Additionally, the solvents used in extracting a nutritional agent for ORAC testing can alter the chemical reactions being measured, giving a misleading result.
In the most recent years of nutritional research, cell-based testing has emerged as a new technology to assess these complex biologic protective mechanisms. Given our current knowledge of various oxidative mechanisms, different human cell types can be tested (red blood cells, neutrophilic white blood cells and macrophagic white blood cells) with a particular nutritional agent without using solvents that alter testing. The comparative results of cellular behavior before and after exposure to the nutrient, the behavior of one cell line versus another after exposure and the parallel of observed cellular behavior and reported testimonials helps lead to further understanding of cellular mechanisms. With a grounded sense of these mechanisms, human double-blind placebo-controlled, cross-over clinical trials can more appropriately be envisioned and executed.
Given the positive testimonials from the field emerging after the launch of Zrii, an independent research laboratory conducted a series of cell-based experiments on Zrii to determine its effect on red blood cells before and after exposure to a noxious chemical known to create oxidative damage to the cells.
The red blood cells were mixed into a solution of Zrii, then the excess Zrii was washed away from the cells. After being subjected to the oxidative stress, it became apparent that the cells resisted the oxidative damage from the inside out. Thus, whatever was protecting the red blood cells from damage didn’t merely coat the outside of the cell but was actively taken up by the cell and persisted after the Zrii was washed away.
After receiving this information, the next step was to test the product within another series of cell-based assays. These show promising quantitative data for Zrii in the following areas:
- The protection from oxidative stress on the power plant (the mitochondria) within highly dynamic living cells
- The behavior of Zrii on rescuing white blood cells from death during conditions of stress
- The enhancement of immune cell migration towards bacterial toxins
- Inhibition of immune cell migration towards inflammatory intra-cellular communication molecules
The Scientific Advisory Board is working actively with leading research institutions to further investigate additional biologic models in the areas of inflammation, digestion, cognitive function, oxidative stress and other areas.
The merging of reports of Zrii usage from the field with these scientific studies will elucidate and authenticate the mechanisms by which Zrii has already defined itself as an outstanding wellness liquid nutritional, as well as lay the groundwork for double-blind, placebo-controlled large scale clinical studies.”
II. Low Glycemic Certification
Zrii commissioned a clinical study with Glycemic Index Laboratories, the foremost worldwide authority on glycemic index determination. In fact, it was David Jensen of GIL that was inventor of the glycemic index and earlier this month published another large study on glycemic index in the “Journal of the American Medical Association.”
Based on the work conducted by Glycemic Index Laboratories it was confirmed in December 2008 that Zrii is a “Low Glycemic Index Food,” an important fact for not only diabetics but the increasing number of health-conscious customers concerned about “sugar spikes” and similar effects of simple carbohydrate products. Zrii will be authorized to use a Low Glycemic seal on its packaging.
Why this is important:
In an age where Diabetes is becoming epidemic, it is excellent for a product containing fruit juices to be certified low glycemic. Glycemic Index relates to the speed with which sugars are metabolized. Simple sugars are known to spike blood sugar, whereas complex carbohydrates are metabolized at a slower rate. Several of the botanicals in Zrii have also been clinically studied and shown to help promote healthy blood sugar levels.
III. Other Certifications
The SAB is also pleased to announce that Zrii has recently received a number of important certifications. Many of these have been requested from the IE Field, so we thank you for helping lead these efforts.
Vegan Certified Zrii obtained certification from the Vegan Awareness Foundation that Zrii is vegan, containing no animal or animal by-products and not tested on animals. This certification was issued after the Vegan Awareness Foundation conducted a thorough review of Zrii the formula, as well as, full product ingredient specifications.
Based on a comprehensive review by the Vegan Awareness Foundation, Zrii has been certified Vegan. Zrii International is now authorized to use the Certified Vegan Logo.
Why this is important:
In addition to vegan consumers, Vegan Certification appeals to a wide variety of consumers including health-conscious, vegetarian, lactose intolerant and people allergic to eggs. Although vegans represent a small portion of the population, the marketing of products made without animal products is growing. Often, vegans and the increasing number of vegetarian customers avoid some products because they are unsure about certain ingredients. Vegan certification removes any doubts about a product’s vegan suitability.
Halal Certified Zrii obtained certification from the The Islamic Food and Nutrition Council of America (IFANCA) that Zrii conforms with Halal standards. Halal is the Arabic word meaning “lawful” or “permitted.” As a certified Halal product, Zrii International has been authorized to use the IFANCA Crescent M logo. Zrii is also listed on the IFANCA website as a Halal certified product.
Zrii product ingredients and formulation were reviewed in detail by IFANCA. After the formula review, an inspection of the Zrii manufacturing facility was conducted. This comprehensive review consisted of a review of not only Zrii ingredients, but also quality control procedures, manufacturing processes, equipment cleaning protocols and other elements of total product integrity. Based on the formula review and the manufacturing facility audit, Zrii was granted Halal certification.
Why this is important:
The market for halal-certified products is large and growing. It includes Muslims and many health-conscious non-Muslims who choose to eat halal-certified products because these products are inherently clean and manufactured in a manner consistent with high quality standards.
Kosher Update
Zrii Corporate remains committed to receiving Kosher Certification for the product by early 2009. This has been a lengthy process, since every single ingredient in the product has to be designated Kosher. Thank you for your patience, and please check back here for updates.
Gluten Free Zrii is in the process of obtaining Gluten-Free Certification from the Gluten Intolerance Group, a non-profit organization serving those of all ages with gluten intolerances - celiac disease and dermatitis herpetiformis.
Certification work related to Zrii gluten free status is well underway with ingredient in Zrii having been reviewed and confirmed as fully conforming. Pending is a review of the Zrii manufacturing facility planned for early 2009. The anticipated Gluten Free certification will result in Zrii being authorized to use the Gluten Intolerance Group "Certified Gluten-Free" logo.
Why this is important:
A growing number of individuals are concerned with dietary sensitivities and allergies related to Gluten.
BCSG Banned Substance Testing
Banned Substances Control Group (BSCG™) has certified that Zrii is free of anabolic agents and stimulants banned by major athletic organizations. This testing assures that athletes and sports associations can enjoy Zrii with full confidence.
What does BSCG test for?
BSCG's ongoing testing program tests Zrii for over 80 substances banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), International Olympic Committee (IOC), United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA), National Football League (NFL), National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and many other professional and amateur sports leagues.
About BSCG
Banned Substances Control Group (BSCG) is the only certification program in the United States that uses a WADA/ IOC accredited laboratory for all analyses. The detection limits used by BSCG are the lowest detection limits for any similar program worldwide.
IV. Continuing Research: Digestion
At the May ’08 Launch Convention, the SAB discussed a study conducted by Arizona Advanced Medicine that showed promising signs for the effect of the product on several markers of digestion.
This clinical study was originally designed as a safety study to ensure that the high levels of botanicals in the product were safe for digestion and overall daily consumption.
Since determining that the study shows a positive impact on digestion, the study protocol has been refined in order to extrapolate the statistically significant data. This is research the SAB hopes to have completed by a third party researcher by early Spring 2009.
As sated in the initial summary of findings by Arizona Advanced Medicine and associate researchers involved in the study:
“The Zrii™ juice was effective in decreasing symptoms of gastrointestinal indigestion and was tolerated well by participants.”
-Konrad Kail N.D., Arizona Advanced Medicine; Yadu Moharir Ph.D., Nutritional Consultants Unlimited, Inc.; Donese Worden, NMD and Mia Darling; Worden Medical Specialties, Summary of Analysis, May 12, 2008.
UK Telegraph
Ayurvedic Spas: Detox is a Girl's Best Friend
By Adriaane Pielou
Published: September 16, 2008
It’s 10am on a sunny Saturday and I’m stretched out in the treatment centre at the Parkschloesschen Bad Wildstein Hotel in Germany's Rhineland – the only five-star spa hotel in Europe devoted solely to Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine. Two therapists, Margit and Colette, are rhythmically massaging warm sesame oil into my arms. I started the day with an 8am yoga class – in a large, glass-walled room with a window open to let in the sound of birdsong from the surrounding parkland – and followed that with meditation and muesli.
After this massage I’m due for shirodhara, when Colette will slowly, soporifically, drip oil on to my forehead. This afternoon I have a consultation with one of the doctors, and a 5pm yoga class to be followed by an early supper. Not exactly a demanding schedule, you’ll agree – but, judging by last night, I’ll probably be in bed and asleep by about 8pm...
Click Here to Read the Full Article
PBS
PBS TV Frontline Special India: A Second Opinion
By T.R Reid
Published: November 7, 2007
"Over the years, I’ve covered a lot of territory for The Washington Post, but it’s a book project that brings me to India, a book on how other countries deliver health care," says veteran reporter T.R. Reid, as he begins his FRONTLINE/World report on Ayurveda, a form of medicine that has been practiced in India for three thousand years.
Full disclosure: The 60-something Reid also has a personal stake in the matter -- a bum shoulder that has been bothering him for 25 years since he injured it in an accident in the Navy.
Reid, who is also known for his humorous commentaries on National Public Radio, travels to the Arya Vaidya Pharmacy, or AVP, in Coimbatore in southern India to see if he can alleviate his aches and pains and avoid the high-tech shoulder surgery that his physician back home in Denver has recommended…
Click Here to Read the Full Article
New York Times
In the Land of Four-Star Asceticism
By Patricia Leigh Brown
Published: August 13, 2006
SHE was Glinda in a sari. Early that morning, she had glided ethereally across the courtyard with her fellow healing goddesses, their feet bare, their flowing white garb edged in gold. The bird trills reverberated off the palace walls.
“Please sit,” she said prayerfully. Soon, thick warm sesame oil infused with medicinal herbs began to permeate my meager muslin thong. She breathed heavily, karate-chopping the oil with the edges of her hands. She gently pummeled me with poultices, hot bundles of herbs resembling bouquets garnis. In the background, I heard oil sizzling. I felt a strange compulsion to go fry myself in a wok.
There is a sign at the entrance to Kalari Kovilakom, the more than 150-year-old palace in the state of Kerala, India, now known as the Palace for Ayurveda, that says “Please Leave Your World Here”…
Click Here to Read the Full Article
Chicago Tribune
Ayurveda: The Latest Darling of Holistic Healing
By Julie Deardorff
Published: January 30, 2005
At the height of his professional football career, Ricky Williams was feeling stressed and unbalanced. Something inexplicable was "off." So the Miami Dolphins star abruptly walked away from the sport--and a multimillion-dollar salary--and began studying the ancient Indian medical system known as ayurved.
To football aficionados, Williams is an unlikely ambassador for the 5,000-year-old holistic health tradition, which uses nutrition, oils, herbs, cleansing techniques and yoga…
Click Here to Read the Full Article
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