A to Z of Ingredient Definitions

Ingredient definitions

Please find below a full list of the ingredients we use in our products and their definitions.

 

Acacia (Gum Arabic) - A dried gummy extracted from the plant with the same name. It is used in the manufacture of pharmaceutical products as a tablet binder and stabilising agent.

Ammonium Molybdate - An inorganic source of molybdenum. Molybdenum is an essential mineral, which contributes to amino acid metabolism.

Amylase - An enzyme that helps with digesting starch.

Annatto Extract Colour - A plant extract that is used to give red colour to capsules.

Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) - A synthetic source of vitamin C. Vitamin C is an essential vitamin and antioxidant that is involved in protecting cells and keeping them healthy, as well as playing a central role in the production of collagen. Vitamin C is water-soluble and must be obtained from the diet every day, as it is not stored by the body.

Ascorbyl Palmitate - A compound made by combining ascorbic acid (vitamin C) with palmitic acid, a vegetable fat. It is used as an anticaking agent in food supplements, as well as a being a source of vitamin C. Vitamin C is an essential vitamin and antioxidant that is involved in protecting cells and keeping them healthy, as well as playing a central role in the production of collagen. Vitamin C is water-soluble and must be obtained from the diet every day, as it is not stored by the body.

Ashwagandha Root Extract (KSM-66®) - A dry full-spectrum extract from the root of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), a plant that grows in India. The branded extract has been standardised to 5% withanolides, the main active ingredients.

Bacterial strains - Live friendly bacteria cultures, which have been specifically selected for their properties. Ingestion of live friendly bacteria can help to replenish the bacteria in the gut.

Bamboo Extract / Bamboo (Exudate) Powder - A natural source of silica extract. Silica is an important trace mineral that is present in connective tissue such as cartilage, skin and nails. It can also be used in capsule manufacturing as an anticaking agent due to its capacity to absorb moisture.

Beeswax (Yellow or White) - A product made from the honeycomb of the honeybee. It can be used as a coating or stiffening agent in the manufacture of pharmaceutical products.

Biotin (D-) - Biotin (vitamin B7) is an essential water-soluble vitamin. Humans cannot synthesise biotin so it has to come from the diet. Biotin is necessary for energy and for maintenance of hair and skin.

Black Garlic Extract - A native extract of aged fermented garlic (Allium sativum L.). Raw garlic is fermented and aged through a unique proprietary process that increases the levels of the beneficial compounds S-allylcysteine and polyphenols.

Black Iron Oxide - A naturally occurring colourant that is commonly used in the manufacture of pharmaceutical products.

Black Pepper Extract (Bioperine®) - A patented extract of black pepper (Piper nigrum). Black pepper extract can improve bioavailability of multiple nutrients such as vitamins and minerals.

Boswellia Serrata Phospholipid - A complex containing gum resin extracts of Indian frankincense (Boswellia serrata Roxb. ex Colebr), a source of boswellic acids. It also contains sunflower lecithin, which improves its bioavailability, and the bulking agents microcrystalline cellulose and silicon dioxide.

Brilliant Blue FCF (FD&C Blue1) - A synthetic certified greenish blue dye that is used as colourant in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals.

Broccoli Powder - A natural extract derived from broccoli, a vegetable that is part of the cabbage family.

Calcium Ascorbate - A source of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) that is commonly used in food supplements. Vitamin C is an essential vitamin and antioxidant that is involved in protecting cells and keeping them healthy, as well as playing a role in the production of collagen. Vitamin C is water-soluble and must be obtained from the diet every day, as it is not stored by the body.

Calcium Bisglycinate - A source of calcium that is commonly found in food supplements. Calcium, an essential mineral, is combined with two glycine molecules to improve its absorption. Calcium plays an important role in bone and teeth health, as well being important for muscle and brain function.

Calcium Carbonate - A common bulking agent used in the pharmaceutical industry. It is odourless and tasteless and helps to give tablets their shape and structure. It is also used as a source of calcium, an essential mineral.

Calcium (D-) Pantothenate - A source of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) that is commonly used in food and food supplements. Pantothenic acid is a water-soluble vitamin, necessary for the synthesis and metabolism of steroid hormones and some neurotransmitters, energy metabolism and mental performance.

CBD / Cannabidiol Oil - Oil extracted from C. sativa L. (hemp) plant leaves. It contains cannabidiol (CBD), a natural phytocannabinoid compound.

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride - A mixture of glycerine and the fatty acids capric and caprylic. It can be used in food supplements or pharmaceutical products to protect the mixture from oxidation.

Carnauba Wax - A natural compound extracted from the leaves of the plant with the same name. It is used as a tablet coating to make the tablets easier to swallow.

L-Carnitine L-Tartrate - A source of carnitine that is commonly used in food products. Carnitine is a micronutrient that helps the body to use long-chain fatty acids for energy.

Cellulose gum (CMC, carboxy-methylcellulose) - A food ingredient derived from cellulose. It is commonly used as a thickening agent and food stabiliser in foods and drinks.

Citric Acid, Anhydrous - Found naturally in citrus fruits like lemons or limes, citric acid is commonly used in the food in the food industry as an acidifier and/or flavouring agent. Anhydrous simply means the water molecules have been removed so it is in a dry powder form.

Chlorella Powder - A natural extract derived from Chlorella, a green algae that is a source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) - A dietary source of vitamin D, an essential fat soluble vitamin that is required for the regulation of calcium and phosphorus found in the body. It helps the body to maintain normal bones and teeth, as well as having a central role in immunity. Vitamin D3 is found in animal-source foods, but it can be vegan-suitable if it is extracted from lichen.

Chondroitin Sulphate Sodium - A source of chondroitin sulphate that is commonly used in food supplements. Chondroitin sulphate is a compound that is normally found in cartilage around joints in the body.

Chromium Chloride - An inorganic source of chromium that is commonly used in food supplements. Chromium is a mineral that is involved in blood sugar regulation.

Chromium Picolinate - An organic source of chromium that is commonly used in food supplements. Chromium is combined with picolinic acid, an endogenous metabolite of L-tryptophan. Chromium is a mineral that is involved in blood sugar regulation.

L-Cysteine - An amino acid that contains sulphur. Cysteine is necessary for formation of proteins such as keratin, one of the most abundant proteins in hair and skin.

CocoActiv® - A patented ingredient that is made up of a cocoa extract and maltodextrin. This cocoa extract contains high levels of cocoa flavonols (naturally occurring antioxidants).

Co-Enzyme Q10 (also known as Ubiquinone) - A fat soluble molecule, very similar to a vitamin, that is naturally produced by our bodies. It is used by cells in the body to produce energy.

Copper Bisglycinate - An organic source of copper that is commonly used in food supplements. Copper, an essential mineral, is combined with two glycine molecules to improve its absorption. Copper is necessary for skin and hair pigmentation, energy and protection of cells from oxidative stress.

Copper Complex of Chlorophyllins - A natural green food colouring compound, commercially extracted from nettles, grass or alfalfa.

Copper Citrate - An organic source of copper that is commonly used in food supplements. Copper, an essential mineral, is combined with citric acid to improve its absorption. Copper is necessary for skin and hair pigmentation, energy and protection of cells from oxidative stress.

Copper Sulphate - An inorganic source of copper that is commonly used in food supplements. Copper is an essential mineral that is necessary for skin and hair pigmentation, energy and protection of cells from oxidative stress.

Corn Starch - A natural starch product derived from the corn kernel. It is a fine powder commonly used as a bulking agent in the manufacture of pharmaceutical products.

Cranberry Extract- An extract from North American cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon L.), which is very rich in A2-type proanthocyanidins (PAC), a type of flavonoid.

Curcuma Phospholipid Complex - A complex containing curcuminoids (active ingredients) extracted from a naturally sourced dry turmeric extract (Curcuma longa L.). It also contains soy lecithin, which improves its bioavailability, and the bulking agent microcrystalline cellulose.

Cupric Gluconate - An organic source of copper that is commonly used in food supplements. Copper, an essential mineral, is combined with gluconic acid to improve its absorption. Copper is necessary for skin and hair pigmentation, energy and protection of cells from oxidative stress.

Cyclodextrin Inclusion Complex - A complex made of gamma-cyclodextrin, a type of carbohydrate derived from starch. It can be combined with bioactive compounds (such as co-enzyme Q10) to boots its bioavailability.

D-L-Alpha-Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E Acetate) - A more stable and less acidic form of vitamin E that is commonly used as a source of vitamin E in food products. Vitamin E is a fat soluble vitamin that helps maintain the immune system, as well as healthy skin and eyes.

D-L-Alpha-Tocopheryl Acid Succinate (Vitamin E Succinate) - source of alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E) that is commonly used as a source of vitamin E in food products. Vitamin E is a fat soluble vitamin that helps maintain the immune system, as well as healthy skin and eyes.

Dextrin - A natural carbohydrate produced by breakdown of starch. It is commonly used as a thickener or preservative in food products.

Dicalcium Phosphate Dihydrate - A bulking and tableting agent commonly used in the manufacture of food supplements and pharmaceutical products.

Disodium Tetraborate Decahydrate - A natural occurring compound that is used as source of boron. Boron is a mineral that is used in bone formation.

EpiCor® (whole yeast fermentate) - A patented whole yeast fermentate (from Saccharomyces cerevisiae). It contains proteins, fibre, polyphenols, vitamins, amino acids, beta-glucans and other metabolites.

Ergocalciferol (Vitamin D2) - A dietary source of vitamin D, an essential fat soluble vitamin that is required for the regulation of calcium and phosphorus found in the body. It helps the body to maintain normal bones and teeth, as well as having a central role in immunity. Vitamin D2 is found in plants such as mushrooms.

(Ethyl) Vanillin - A flavouring agent that is used to give products a characteristic vanilla taste.

Evening Primrose Oil - An oil extracted from evening primrose (Oenothera biennis) seed, which is rich in GLA (gamma linoleic acid).

Ferrous Citrate (Iron (II) Citrate) - A source of iron commonly found in food supplements. It is an organic form of iron, where iron is combined with citric acid. Iron is an essential mineral necessary for multiple functions in the body, including red blood cell and haemoglobin formation, as well as for normal function of the brain and the immune system.

Ferrous Fumarate (Iron (II) Fumarate - A source of iron commonly found in food supplements. It is an organic form of iron, where iron is combined with fumaric acid. Iron is an essential mineral necessary for multiple functions in the body, including red blood cell and haemoglobin formation, as well as for normal function of the brain and the immune system.

Fish Oil - An oil extract from fish, it is a natural source of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids.

Flaxseed - The seed of the flax plant (Linum usitatissimum), known to be a good source of protein, fiber and ALA omega-3 fatty acid, as well as multiple vitamins and minerals.

Folic Acid (Pteroylmonoglutamic Acid) - A synthetic form of folate (vitamin B9) that is commonly used as a source of folate in fortified foods and food supplements. Folate is an essential water-soluble vitamin that is necessary for cell division, tissue growth and blood formation. Folic acid is converted to folate in the body by the MTHFR enzyme.

Fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) - A plant fibre derived from inulin, that it is known to provide nourishment for bacteria.

Gelatin (Gelatine) - A protein derived from collagen, which can be from bovine (cow) or porcine (pig) origin. It is commonly used in the production of capsule shells for capsules.

Glucosamine Sulphate 2KCl - A potassium chloride (KCl) form of glucosamine sulphate, a naturally occurring chemical found in our bodies. The most common source of glucosamine sulphate in food supplements is shellfish.

Glucose, Liquid - A sweetener compound commonly used as a preservative in the manufacturing of tablets.

Glycerin (Glycerine, Glycerol) - A clear syrupy liquid that is commonly used in the manufacture of foods and pharmaceuticals as a coating, preservative or thickening agent.

Glyceryl (Di)-Behenate - A lubricant and coating agent commonly used in the manufacture of foods and pharmaceuticals as a coating, preservative or thickening agent.

Grape Seed Extract (GSE) - A natural extract made from grape (Vitis vinifera) seeds. Grape seeds are in antioxidant molecules, such as proanthocyanidins.

Green Tea Extract - A natural extract made from green tea (Camellia sinensis). Green tea extract is a source of catechins, natural antioxidant molecules.

Hyaluronic Acid Sodium / Sodium Hyaluronate - A sodium salt of hyaluronic acid, which is used as a source of hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance produced by the body, and it is mainly found in skin and connective tissues.

Hydrolysed Collagen / Collagen Peptides - A source of collagen commonly found in food supplements. When collagen has been hydrolysed, that is, broken down in smaller pieces, it is better absorbed by the body. Collagen is an important of skin and joints.

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) - A cellulose polymer that is commonly used in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals as a thickening and coating agent. It is also used as plant alternative to gelatin in capsule shell production.

Indigotine (FD&C Blue2, Indigo Carmine) - A synthetic certified deep blue dye that is used as colourant in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals.

Inulin - A plant fibre that cannot be digested by the body and that is known to provide food for bacteria in the gut.

Kale Powder - A natural extract derived from kale, a vegetable that is part of the cabbage family.

Koji Fermented Iron - A natural source of iron. Koji (Aspergillus oryazae) is a fungus used in Asian cuisine. The koji takes the iron from the media where it's grown and stores it inside the cell. This makes the iron easier to absorb and gentler in the stomach. Iron is an essential mineral necessary for multiple functions in the body, including red blood cell and haemoglobin formation, as well as for the normal function of the brain and the immune system.

Krill Oil - An oil extracted from krill (Euphausia superba), a tiny shrimp-like animal. It is a concentrated source of omega-3 fatty acids, the antioxidant astaxanthin and naturally occurring phospholipids.

Lactase - An enzyme that helps to digest lactose, one of the sugars found in milk and other dairy products.

- lycopene formulation. It combines tomato extract with whey protein, soy lecithin, silicon dioxide and polysorbate 80.

Lecithin - A type of fat that naturally occurs in animal and plant tissues. It is commonly used to stabilise emulsions because it is both hydrophilic and hydrophobic (can attract both water and fatty substances). It can be extracted from multiple sources, including soybeans (soya), sunflower and eggs. The soy lecithin used in our products comes from non-GMO soy beans.

Leucine (L-) - An essential amino acid that is required for protein synthesis and for muscle formation.

Lemon Balm Extract - An extract from the lemon balm plant (Melissa officinalis L.) which is rich in rosmarinic acid and other polyphenols. The native extract is combined with maltodextrin to form the extract found in FocusZen+.

Lycopene - A red carotenoid naturally found in high amounts in tomatoes. It has antioxidant properties and is responsible for giving the fruit its red colour.

Maize Dextrin - A plant fibre that is known to provide nourishment for bacteria.

Magnesium Bisglycinate - An organic magnesium salt, where magnesium has been combined with two glycine molecules. It is used in food supplements as a bioavailable source of magnesium. Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in many functions such as energy, reduction of tiredness and fatigue, cell division and protection from oxidative stress, and maintenance of normal muscle, bones and teeth.

Magnesium Carbonate - An inorganic magnesium salt, which contains high levels of magnesium. It is commonly used in food supplements as a source of magnesium. Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in many functions such as energy, reduction of tiredness and fatigue, cell division and protection from oxidative stress, and maintenance of normal muscle, bones and teeth.

Magnesium Citrate - An organic magnesium salt, where magnesium has been combined with citric acid. It is used in food supplements as a bioavailable source of magnesium. Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in many functions such as energy, reduction of tiredness and fatigue, cell division and protection from oxidative stress, and maintenance of normal muscle, bones and teeth.

Magnesium Hydroxide - A pharmaceutical binder that is commonly used in the manufacture of food supplements and pharmaceutical products.

Magnesium Lactate-2-Hydrate - An organic magnesium salt, where magnesium has been combined with lactic acid. It is used in food supplements as a bioavailable source of magnesium. Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in many functions such as energy, reduction of tiredness and fatigue, cell division and protection from oxidative stress, and maintenance of normal muscle, bones and teeth.

Magnesium Oxide - An inorganic magnesium salt, which contains high levels of magnesium. It is commonly used in food supplements as a source of magnesium. Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in many functions such as energy, reduction of tiredness and fatigue, cell division and protection from oxidative stress, and maintenance of normal muscle, bones and teeth.

Magnesium Stearate - The most common anticaking agent used in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals. It aids the flow of ingredients and prevents the formation of lumps in the ingredient mix.

Magnesium Sulphate - An inorganic salt included in our Probio-8+ formulation to improve the survival of the bacteria.

Maltodextrin - A type of sugar that can be used as a source of carbohydrates. It can also be used as a bulking agent in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals.

Manganese Bisglycinate - An organic manganese salt, where manganese has been combined with two glycine molecules. It is used in food supplements as a bioavailable source of manganese. Manganese is a trace mineral that is necessary for maintenance of bones and connective tissues, and that helps to protect cells from oxidative stress.

Manganese Citrate - An organic manganese salt, where manganese has been combined with citric acid. It is used in food supplements as a bioavailable source of manganese. Manganese is a trace mineral that is necessary for maintenance of bones and connective tissues, and that helps to protect cells from oxidative stress.

Manganese Gluconate - An organic manganese salt, where manganese has been combined with gluconic acid. It is used in food supplements as a bioavailable source of manganese. Manganese is a trace mineral that is necessary for maintenance of bones and connective tissues, and that helps to protect cells from oxidative stress.

Manganese Sulphate - An inorganic salt that is commonly used as a source of manganese. Manganese is a trace mineral that is necessary for maintenance of bones and connective tissues, and that helps to protect cells from oxidative stress.

Marigold Extract - A native extract from the marigold flower (Tagetes erecta). It is rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, two carotenoids that are found in the macula of the eye.

Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT) - A type of fat that is commonly used as tablet coating in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals.

Menaquinone (Vitamin K2) - An essential fat soluble vitamin found in animal products and fermented foods such as mature cheeses and 'Natto' (fermented soya beans). It is essential to regulate calcium in the body, promoting bone calcification and preventing calcification of blood vessels.

Methylsulphonylmethane (MSM) - An organic compound rich in sulphur. It is naturally found in plants, animals and humans. Sulphur plays a critical role in connective tissue such as skin, tendons and ligaments.

Methylcobalamin - A form of vitamin B12 that contains a methyl group. Vitamin B12 is an essential water-soluble vitamin, which is necessary for brain function, and for the production of red blood cells.

5-Methyltetrahydrofolate calcium salt / 5-methyltetrahydrofolic acid (5-MTF) - A source of folate (vitamin B9) that is commonly found in food supplements. Folate is an essential water-soluble vitamin that is necessary for cell division, tissue growth and blood formation. 5-MTF is more bioavailable than folic acid as it is ready to be used by the body.

Microcrystalline Cellulose - A refined non-digestive plant fibre, commonly used as an emulsifier or bulking agent in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals.

Mono- and Diglycerides - Simple food additives that are used as emulsifiers. Mono- and di- refers to the number of fatty acids in the chemical formula.

N-Acetyl L-Cysteine (NAC) - A derivative of the amino acid cysteine, is used by the body as a substrate for the synthesis of glutathione, an important antioxidant molecule. It is also a source of cysteine.

Natural Tomato Extract - A natural source of lycopene.

Nicotinamide - A source of vitamin B3 commonly found in food supplements. Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, is an essential water-soluble vitamin which is necessary for many functions in the body such as energy and maintenance of the nervous system.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids (ω-3 Fatty Acids) - A specific type of polyunsaturated fatty acid. These are important for normal metabolism. Humans cannot synthesize omega-3 fatty acids and therefore must obtain them from the diet.

Olive Oil - A food product that can be used as an excipient agent or emulsifier in the manufacture of soft gel capsules. It is also used as a carrier matrix (delivery mechanism) to help with the absorption of certain ingredients.

Phytomenadione (Phytonadione) - A synthetic source of phylloquinone, vitamin K1. Vitamin K1 is important for normal blood clotting.

Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) - An agent added to the coating of tablets, to help improve the appearance and to help with swallowing tablets.

Polysorbate 80 - A solubilising and emulsifying agent commonly used in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals.

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) - A water-soluble synthetic polymer. It is commonly used in the coating of tablets, to improve their appearance and surface finish.

Polyvinylpolypyrrolidone (PVPP) - An agent added to tablets and/or capsules to help the breakdown of the product once it has been ingested so the active compound(s) can be absorbed.

Potassium Chloride - An inorganic salt, commonly used as a source of potassium in food supplements. Potassium is an essential mineral that is important for normal function of muscle and the nervous system, as well as contributing to maintaining normal blood pressure.

Potassium Iodide - An inorganic salt, commonly used as a source of iodine in food supplements. Iodine is an essential mineral that is important for energy and brain function, as well as for normal thyroid function.

Potassium Sorbate - A combination of potassium salt with sorbic acid. It is commonly used as a preservative agent in foods and drinks.

Purified Water - Water that has been filtered to remove any impurities.

Pyridoxine Hydrochloride - A source of vitamin B6 commonly found in food supplements. Vitamin B6 is an essential water-soluble vitamin in the body, necessary for many functions such as normal regulation of hormonal activity, energy and maintenance of the nervous system.

Pyridoxal-5-phosphate - A readily bioavailable source of vitamin B6 commonly found in food supplements. Vitamin B6 is an essential water-soluble vitamin in the body, necessary for many functions such as normal regulation of hormonal activity, energy and maintenance of the nervous system.

Quercetin Phospholipid Complex - A complex containing quercetin, a flavonoid found in many vegetables and fruits such as onions and apples, which has multiple potential health benefits. The quercetin in this complex has been extracted from the Japanese pagoda tree (Sophora japonica). It also contains sunflower lecithin, which improves its bioavailability, the bulking agent microcrystalline cellulose and the anticaking agent silicon dioxide.

Red Clover Extract - A natural extract from the red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) flower, which is rich in isoflavones, plant compounds which are similar to the oestrogen hormone.

Red Iron Oxide - A naturally organic red colourant that is commonly used in the manufacture of pharmaceutical products.

Resveratrol - A type of polyphenol commonly found in grapes, blueberries and raspberries, which is thought to have antioxidant properties.

Retinyl Acetate (Vitamin A acetate) - A synthetic source of retinol (vitamin A), commonly found in food supplements. Vitamin A is a fat soluble vitamin, which is necessary for maintenance of skin and membranes, as well as being important for maintenance of vision.

Riboflavin - A source of vitamin B2 commonly found in food supplements. Vitamin B2 is an essential water-soluble vitamin in the body. Riboflavin is crucial for maintaining multiple tissues, such as eyes and skin, and for energy production.

Riboflavin 5’-Phosphate Sodium - A source of vitamin B2 commonly found in food supplements. Vitamin B2 is an essential water-soluble vitamin in the body. Riboflavin is crucial for maintaining multiple tissues, such as eyes and skin, and for energy production. Riboflavin 5’-phosphate is a more stable form of riboflavin.

Rosemary Extract - A rosemary leaf extract containing carnosic acid, a natural compound that stimulates antioxidant activity in the body.

Sage Extract - A natural extract from sage (Salvia officinalis L.) leaf, which is rich in rosmarinic acid and polyphenols.

Shellac - A resin, secreted by the female lac bug, that is commonly used as a protective coating in the manufacture of tablets.

Silicon Dioxide - A natural compound that is commonly used in the manufacture of pharmaceutical products as an anti-caking agent. It can also be found in the coloured coating of capsules.

Sodium Carbonate - A compound frequently used together with sodium hydrogen carbonate. It is used in effervescent tablets in combination with an acidic agent, such as citric acid, to cause the ‘fizzing’ reaction.

Sodium Croscarmellose - A compound that helps to break down tablets in the intestinal tract to help absorption. It is commonly used in the manufacture of pharmaceutical products.

Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate - Also commonly known as bicarbonate soda. It is used in effervescent tablets in combination with an acidic agent, such as citric acid, to cause the ‘fizzing’ reaction.

Sodium Molybdate - An inorganic source of molybdenum. Molybdenum is an essential mineral, which contributes to amino acid metabolism.

Sodium Selenite / Sodium Selenate - Inorganic selenium salts that are used in food supplements as a source of selenium, an essential mineral. Selenium contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress, as well as being important for immune function and maintenance of normal hair and nails.

Sodium Starch Glycolate - A modified starch that is commonly used in the manufacture of pharmaceutical products to help break down tablets quicker in the stomach.

Sorbitol - A low-calorie sweetener, which is also a humectant to help stabilise the moisture content of food and pharmaceutical products.

Spinach powder - A natural extract derived from spinach, a leafy vegetable part of the beet and chard family.

Spirulina powder - A natural extract derived from Spirulina, a green algae that is a source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

Starflower Oil - An oil extracted from borage or starflower (Borago officinalis) seed, which is rich in GLA (gamma Linoleic Acid).

Stearic Acid - A fatty acid that is often used as a thickening or an anti-caking agent in the manufacture of pharmaceutical products.

Sucralose - A zero calorie artificial sweetener, commonly used in the manufacture of food products.

Sucrose - A natural sugar commonly extracted from sugar cane or sugar beets.

Sunflower Oil - A food product that comes from sunflower seeds. It can be used as an excipient agent or emulsifier in the manufacture of softgel capsules. It is also used as a delivery system to help with the absorption of certain ingredients.

Talc (magnesium silicate) - A naturally occurring mineral that is used in the coating of tablets to make them smooth and tack free.

Tartaric acid - A white, crystalline organic acid that naturally occurs in many foods such as grapes. It is commonly used as an additive in the manufacture of food products.

Thiamin Hydrochloride - A source of thiamin (vitamin B1). Vitamin B1 is an essential water-soluble vitamin in the body. It plays a key role in energy production, as well as nerve and heart function.

Titanium Dioxide - A naturally occurring white colourant that is commonly used in the manufacture of pharmaceutical products.

Tragacanth - A natural gum obtained from the dried sap of the plant with the same name. It is used as a binding and stabilising agent in the manufacture of pharmaceutical products.

Tricalcium Phosphate - A calcium salt that is commonly used as a bulking agent in the manufacture of pharmaceutical products.

Vegetable protein - A plant protein that is included in our ProBio-8+ formulation to increase the metabolic activity of the bacteria.

Whey Protein - A collection of proteins such as albumin and lactoglobulin which are isolated from whey. Whey is the liquid remaining after milk has been curdled and strained, as it is a general byproduct of the manufacture of cheese.

White Rice Powder / Starch - Also known as rice flour, this is a natural product commonly used as a bulking agent in the manufacture of pharmaceutical products.

Xanthan Gum - A substance produced from the fermentation of sugar with the bacteria Xanthomonas campestris. It is commonly used in food products as a thickener or stabiliser.

Yellow Iron Oxide - A naturally occurring yellow colourant that is commonly used in the manufacture of pharmaceutical products.

Zinc BisGlycinate - An organic salt that is produced by combining zinc with two glycine molecules. Zinc is an essential mineral involved in many functions such as cell division, protection from oxidative stress, immunity, vision, fertility, and maintenance of skin, hair and nails. Zinc bisglycinate is more bioavailable than zinc oxide.

Zinc Citrate - An organic salt that is produced by the reaction of citric acid with zinc oxide. Zinc is an essential mineral involved in many functions such as cell division, protection from oxidative stress, immunity, vision, fertility, and maintenance of skin, hair and nails. Zinc citrate is more bioavailable than zinc oxide.

Zinc Oxide - An inorganic compound that can be used in food supplements as a source of zinc. Zinc is an essential mineral involved in many functions such as cell division, protection from oxidative stress, immunity, vision, fertility, and maintenance of skin, hair and nails.

GENERAL DEFINITIONS

Acidifier/Acidifying agent - A substance added to food supplements or pharmaceuticals that provides acidity to the product, which helps to stabilise some preparations, like liquid products.

Anticaking agent - Used to improve the flow of ingredients and prevent the formation of lumps during the production of tablets and capsules.

Bulking agent - Added to the active ingredient(s) in the formulation of food supplements or pharmaceuticals to help keep the mixture together.

Coating agent - Added to the exterior of a tablet or capsule to make it easier to swallow.

Emulsifier/Emulsifying agent - An inactive substance that stabilises an emulsion. An emulsion is a combination of liquids that do not entirely mix, like oil and vinegar in a salad dressing.

Excipient agent - An inactive substance that improves the stability of a product.