Optimum Protein is now sweetened with a natural, high-potency sweetener extracted from monk fruit. This generally recognized as safe (GRAS) monk-fruit extract offers a high-quality sweetness and flavor without the bitter aftertaste associated with some natural sweeteners.

Protein Metabolism Vegan Protein Blend is Causenta®’s proprietary blend of pea protein isolate and rice protein concentrate, L-glutamine, glycine, and taurine. Generation of glutathione and sulfation cofactors—vital for phase II conjugation—requires an array of amino acids. The combination of pea protein and rice protein, containing a complement of amino acids, achieves an amino acid score of 100%. Glutamine, a conditionally essential and versatile amino acid with two nitrogen moieties, is crucial to nitrogen metabolism and helps maintain healthy liver tissue and function.[1,2] The amino acid glycine is needed for bile synthesis, phase II detoxification, and glutathione production. Taurine, a derivative of the sulfur-containing amino acid cysteine, is also important for synthesis of bile salts and helps stabilize cell membranes.*

Gastrointestinal Support Ginger root, included to support healthy digestion such as the release of bile from the gallbladder, acts at several sites to moderate PGE(2) production and support the normal response to inflammation.[3] Fiber (from inulin and flaxseeds) supports production of short-chain fatty acids as well as a healthy intestinal flora. MeadowPure™, an organic flaxseed complex, possesses excellent oxidative stability, supports antioxidant activity, and provides lignins, soluble fiber, and omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids.[4] Glutamine plays a key role in healthy intestinal cell proliferation and gut barrier integrity, immune function, and normal tissue healing.*[1,2]

Detoxification Support Ellagic acid (from pomegranate extract) prevents over-induction of CYP1A enzymes, works at the gene level to induce synthesis of glutathione-S-transferases and other phase II activities, binds directly to toxins, and protects DNA and hepatocytes.[5,6] Watercress is a rich source of beta-phenylethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC)—a versatile compound found to inhibit phase I enzymes and induce the phase II enzymes associated with biotransformation and excretion of toxins. Watercress has been found to contain even stronger phase II inducers known as 7-methylsulfinyheptyl and 8-methylsulfinyloctyl isothiocyanates as well.[7,8] Green tea catechins not only support antioxidant activity but also appear to act as modulators of phase I and phase II detoxification.[9] Choline is present to support lipid metabolism in the liver and can be converted to betaine, a methyl donor.*[10] The active, bioavailable form of B vitamins (pyridoxal-5’-phosphate (B6), 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (folate), methylcobalamin (B12)) and glycine all support amino acid conjugation and are vital for the detoxification of xenobiotics and xenoestrogens. 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF), methylcobalamin, betaine, and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) are present to support methylation and detoxification. 5-MTHF supports healthy folate nutrition, especially in individuals with variations in folate metabolism. In Optimum Protein, 5-MTHF is provided as Quatrefolic® for enhanced stability, solubility, and bioavailability.*[11] Preventium®, a patented form of potassium hydrogen d-glucarate, supports glucuronidation. Sulfation is supported by MSM and sodium sulfate. Acetylation is supported by d-calcium pantothenate, pyridoxal-5’-phosphate, and magnesium. Several minerals in Optimum Protein are provided as Albion® mineral chelates and TRAACS® mineral amino acid chelates for enhanced gastrointestinal absorption and bioavailability.*[12]

Antioxidant Support and Cytokine Balance Bioflavonoids, quercetin, rutin, and curcumin support antioxidant activity, counter free radicals, and support healthy eicosanoid and cytokine metabolism.[13,14] Curcumin has a long history of use for its support of a normal, healthy response to inflammation.[15] N-acetylcysteine (NAC) stimulates glutathione synthesis, enhances glutathione-S-transferase activity, and promotes detoxification.[16] Selenium glycinate provides support for glutathione metabolism and antioxidant protection.*

Directions:

Blend, shake, or briskly stir 2 level scoops (54 g) into 10-12 ounces chilled, pure water (or mix amount for desired thickness) and consume once daily, or use as directed by your healthcare practitioner. Consult your healthcare practitioner prior to use. Individuals taking medication should discuss potential interactions with their healthcare practitioner. Do not use if tamper seal is damaged.