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Article Summary:
If you are considering taking a nutritional supplement for heart health, then CoQ10 and fish oil are the most popular options to choose from. Coenzyme Q10 (or CoQ10) is endogenously produced in the body, and its level is the highest in organs that have high metabolism rates, such as the heart, kidney, and liver. On the other hand, fish oils are derived from the tissues of oily fish, such as tuna, salmon, herring, and mackerel, and contain omega-3 fatty acids known to help support heart health.
The efficacy, benefits, and drawbacks of CoQ10 and fish oil supplements are much debated, making it difficult to determine the right supplement for your heart health. Below, we compare CoQ10 vs fish oil and explain why you should include a powerful heart health supplement in your diet.
CoQ10, one of the most significant lipid antioxidants, primarily functions as an energy transfer molecule, playing a critical role in the body’s energy production – the Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) cycle. As an intracellular antioxidant, CoQ10 neutralizes free radicals, preventing them from damaging cellular lipids, proteins, and DNA. The ability of CoQ10 to enhance ATP production and minimize oxidative stress is believed to be the mechanism of action1 that addresses the high metabolic requirements of heart muscles and supports cardiovascular functions.*
Fish oil primarily contains two types of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids — eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), originally synthesized by microalgae. These microalgae are then consumed by phytoplankton that fish further consume, and the omega-3 fatty acids accumulate in the tissues of the fish. Omega-3 fatty acids play a structural role in cell membranes and are critical to forming eicosanoids, the signaling molecules known to regulate various heart functions.
The following table summarizes the key differences between CoQ10 and fish oil, their benefits, and efficacy to help you determine the right supplement for your heart health.
| CoQ10 | Fish Oil | |
| Dietary Sources | Oily fish, organ meats, cruciferous vegetables, certain fruits, nuts and seeds, and whole grains. | Derived from tissues of fatty fish, such as salmon, herring, and tuna. |
| Key Benefits | a. Involved in cellular energy production, improves oxygen utilization at the cellular level.* b. Prevents the generation of free radicals and their adverse impact on cellular structures.* | a. Rich source of omega-3 fatty acids essential for various health functions, including heart, lung, and immune and endocrine systems. b. Fish oils with higher DHA content have been found2 to slow the rate of cognitive decline. |
| Absorption | The absorption of orally ingested CoQ10 is generally poor but varies depending on the formulation. | Fish oil fatty acids are better absorbed in the triacylglycerols form when consumed with a high-fat meal. |
Various clinical studies highlight the individual beneficial effects of CoQ10 and fish oil supplements on heart health.* The consumption of CoQ10 and fish oil supplements together has also been found to be therapeutic for heart health.* Further, research3 indicates the potential role of CoQ supplements in enhancing the depleted levels in the body due to the intake of statin medications for regulating cholesterol levels.*
It is worth noting that a healthy balanced diet can provide sufficient amounts of CoQ10 to the body. However, oral CoQ10 supplementation might become necessary due to certain pathological conditions or side effects of certain medications.
One of the significant challenges associated with oral CoQ10 supplementation is CoQ10’s naturally poor absorption and bioavailability, which impacts its efficacy. CoQ10 absorption in the body thus varies widely depending on the supplement formulation. Various strategies have been adopted to enhance the absorption of CoQ10, with CoQ10-loaded nanoparticles displaying the most promising results.
CoQ10 Pro® developed by Tesseract Medical Research, is a revolutionary CoQ10 nanoformulation utilizing proprietary CyLoc® – DexKey® technology to ensure targeted delivery of the active ingredient molecules at the desired point in the intestinal tract. CoQ10 Pro’s unique formulation enables optimal solubility and maximum absorption of CoQ10 at daily intake levels much lower than previously required. The resulting enhanced efficacy of the formulation supports the optimal functioning of your heart.*
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing bioavailability and absorption, and micro-dosing multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they can help support your cardiovascular health.*
Citations:
1Raizner AE. Methodist DeBakey cardiovascular journal 2019;15(3):185-191. doi:10.14797/mdcj-15-3-185
2Samaneh GF, et al. 2019;59(11):1684-1727. doi:10.1080/10408398.2018.1425978
3Aaseth Jan, et al 2021;197:111521. doi:10.1016/j.mad.2021.111521
Article Summary:
Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is widely known for its antioxidant properties and is used as a nutritional supplement to inhibit the adverse effects of oxidative stress on vital cellular components.* Although CoQ10 is endogenously produced in the body, the level of CoQ10 decreases with age or due to certain pathological conditions. Depleted levels of CoQ10 can adversely affect various health functions, including the skin.
As the most voluminous organ of the body, the skin is exposed to external stress factors, including prolonged sun exposure and pollution. The production of free radicals due to oxidative stress triggered by both intrinsic and extrinsic stress factors damages many of the skin’s cellular components.
Skin cells (cutaneous cells) require a high amount of energy and significant cellular metabolism to resist these harmful effects and regenerate and repair tissues. Low CoQ10 levels are associated with a decline in both cellular energy production and mitochondrial activity, which can impair cellular and tissue functions. This can lead to visible structural alterations of the skin, such as:
Several studies indicate the beneficial role of CoQ10 in promoting healthy skin and hair.* Below, we discuss Coenzyme Q10’s skin benefits and different CoQ10 supplements available for supporting healthy skin.*
The wide use of Coenzyme Q10 as a nutritional supplement to support optimal skin health, especially the dermis layer, lies in its capacity to enhance cellular energy metabolism and its antioxidant effects.* The following table highlights some Coenzyme Q10 skin benefits established through various research studies.
| Coenzyme Q10 Skin Benefits* | |
| Stimulating collagen production*: Collagen is a necessary protein for maintaining the skin’s elasticity and hydration. A study1 on the effect of CoQ10 on cultured human skin fibroblast** showed that CoQ10 increased the mRNA expression of type I, IV, and VII collagen, along with other critical proteins such as elastin and HSP47.* **Dermal fibroblasts are the main cell type present in the dermis, the skin connective tissue. | |
| Enhancing cellular metabolism*: An in vivo study2 on keratinocytes — the most dominant cell type in the epidermis, has revealed the positive influence of CoQ10 in enhancing the mitochondrial function of aging skin cells.* | |
| Mitigating oxidative damage to skin*: Studies3 show that CoQ10 is effective against UVA-mediated oxidative stress in keratinocytes, inhibiting oxidative DNA damage and suppressing the expression of collagenase — the enzyme that breaks down collagen in dermal fibroblasts following UVA radiation.* | |
| Limiting seasonal deterioration of viscoelasticity: A placebo-controlled study4 on the effects of daily supplementation of CoQ10 on skin parameters showed the intake of CoQ10 limited seasonal deterioration of skin viscoelasticity—the property that results in stability and flexibility of the skin.* |
Although there are multiple CoQ10 skin benefits, the antioxidant molecule in its natural state displays low solubility and poor oral bioavailability, stability, and permeability, which hinders its therapeutic effects. Recently developed supplement formulations have enhanced the absorption and bioavailability of CoQ10 in the body.
Although a balanced diet can provide a sufficient amount of CoQ10, additional supplementation can be required for particular health conditions. Coenzyme Q10 supplements are usually available in soft gel capsules, hard shell capsules, sprays, tablets, and topical creams. The following table briefly discusses these different types of CoQ10 supplements.
| Softgel/ Hard Shell Capsules | Spray | Tablets | Topical cream |
| Formulated to enhance the bioavailability and absorption of CoQ10. | Oral sprays are developed for small, tailored dosages. | CoQ10 chewable tablets have enhanced palatability to accomplish patient compliance. | The topical application of CoQ10 is shown5 to increase CoQ10 levels on the skin surface. |
It is worth noting that the efficacy and benefits of CoQ10 supplementation vary depending on the formulation. Among alternative approaches to enhance CoQ10 absorption, CoQ10 nanoparticles display promising results.
The CoQ10 Pro® developed by Tesseract Medical Research is a hypoallergenic, solubility-enhanced CoQ10 formulation for optimal absorption and bioavailability. The proprietary CyLoc® – DexKey® nutrient delivery nanotechnology enables targeted active ingredient delivery at the desired point in the intestinal tract for unprecedented absorption. The revolutionary formulation helps keep your skin healthy and protected from the adverse effects of oxidative stress.*
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing bioavailability and absorption, and micro-dosing multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they can help support your cardiovascular health.*
Citations:
1Mine Y, et al. Journal of clinical biochemistry and nutrition 2022;77(1):29-33. doi:10.3164/jcbn.20-187
2Prahl S, et al. BioFactors (Oxford, England) 2008;32(1-4):245-55. doi:10.1002/biof.5520320129
3Hoppe U, et al. BioFactors (Oxford, England) 1999;9(2-4)371-378. doi:10.1002/biof.5520090238
4Žmitek K, et al. BioFactors (Oxford, England) 2017;43(1):132-140. doi:10.1002/biof.1316
5Knott A, et al. BioFactors (Oxford, England) 2015;41(6):383-390. doi:10.1002/biof.1239
Article Summary:
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), one of our body’s most significant lipid antioxidants, plays a critical role in synthesizing adenosine triphosphate or ATP, better known as the ‘energy currency’ of cells. CoQ10 is abundantly present in the organs that have high metabolism rates, such as the lungs, liver, heart, kidneys, pancreas, spleen, and adrenal glands. CoQ10’s presence in the mitochondrial membrane of the cells prevents the generation of free radicals that can damage cellular proteins, lipids, and DNA.
Although the body endogenously produces Coenzyme Q10, its level can decrease with age or under certain pathological conditions that result in compromised immunity, poor physical performance, and others. Including Coenzyme Q10-rich foods in your diet and taking a CoQ10 nutritional supplement as an additional source can help maintain this key nutrient’s optimal level in the body. Below we discuss various food sources that are rich in CoQ10 and how a powerful supplement can help keep you healthy, particularly your heart.
Coenzyme Q10 naturally occurs in various food sources, with meat, fish, nuts, and olive oil being the richest nutritional sources. Lower amounts of CoQ10 are found in most dairy products, vegetables, cereals, and fruits. It has been observed that diets of different geographical origins vary widely in CoQ10 content. Various clinical trials1 indicate that dietary CoQ10 contributes to the plasma CoQ10 concentration.
Interestingly, the whole body content of Coenzyme Q10 is only about 500-1,500 mg. Because CoQ10 is a fat-soluble molecule, it is better absorbed in your body when taken with a meal that contains oil or fat. The following table lists Coenzyme Q10-rich foods to include in your diet to enable this nutrient to support various health functions.
| Organ Meats | Animal organ meats, such as liver and kidney, have the highest amounts of CoQ10. Some muscle meats, such as pork, beef, and chicken, also contain CoQ10. |
| Fatty Fish | Oily fish, including salmon, tuna, trout, mackerel, and herring. |
| Fruits and Vegetables | Strawberries, oranges, broccoli, cauliflower |
| Nuts and Seeds | Peanuts, sesame seeds, and pistachios |
| Oils | Soybean oil and canola oil |
| Legumes | Soybeans, lentils, and whole grains |
Notably, the average daily dietary intake of CoQ10 is only 3-6 mg, most of which is in reduced form. Although a diet that includes Coenzyme Q10-rich foods helps produce sufficient CoQ10 in healthy individuals, supplementation might be helpful under certain pathological conditions.
CoQ10 oral supplements are available in several forms, including oral spray, soft gel capsules, tablets, and hard shell capsules. Supplementing 200 mg2 of CoQ10 daily is recommended to maintain a therapeutic blood level over 2.5 mcg/mL. The clinical effect of taking a CoQ10 supplement is not immediate and might take up to eight weeks to manifest. And although CoQ10 supplements are usually well tolerated, their safety for pregnant or nursing women and children has not been established.
A significant challenge with the efficacy of CoQ10 supplements is their absorption and bioavailability. CoQ10 has a relatively high molecular weight, is insoluble in water, and has limited solubility in lipids, which can result in it having poor absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. Reduction in CoQ10 particle size (nanoparticles) using cyclodextrin technology is one of the more recent approaches to enhance the absorption and bioavailability of this key antioxidant.
CoQ10 Pro® is a unique CoQ10 formulation developed by Tesseract Medical Research for advanced absorption. Each capsule of CoQ10 Pro® contains 300 mg of Coenzyme Q10 complex to help support your health, particularly cardiovascular functions.* The proprietary CyLoc® – DexKey® technology ensures optimal solubility of CoQ10 by encasing each active ingredient molecule in a dextrin fiber matrix and transporting them, one at a time, through the intestinal wall. The result is outstanding absorption of CoQ10 in the body, making CoQ10 Pro® superior to oral formulations that feature uncomplexed CoQ10.
With enhanced absorption and bioavailability of CoQ10 molecules, Tesseract’s CoQ10 Pro® formula enables micro-dosing — the daily intake of the supplement at a level much lower than previously required. The result is a powerful and positive therapeutic response to provide comprehensive cardiovascular support.*
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing bioavailability and absorption, and micro-dosing multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they can help support your cardiovascular health.*
Citations:
1Weber C, et al. ” Molecular Aspects of Medicine 1997;18:S251-254. doi:10.1016/s0098-2997(97)00003-4
2Raizner AE. Methodist DeBakey cardiovascular journal 2019;15(3):185-191. doi:10.14797/mdcj-15-3-185
Article Summary:
You might already be aware of some of the therapeutic benefits of glutathione, such as its mechanism of action in detoxifying your body. As a powerful intracellular antioxidant, glutathione scavenges harmful free radicals, down-regulates oxidative stress, and supports the body’s normal inflammatory response.* Although the body produces and recycles glutathione naturally, the body’s natural level of glutathione becomes depleted with age, making supplementation necessary for maintaining an optimal glutathione level.
Glutathione nutritional supplements are considered safe, with no severe adverse reactions having been observed in clinical trials.
Glutathione supplements are available in various modes of delivery, including oral, intravenous, topical, intranasal, and nebulized forms. The ease and convenience of oral glutathione supplements usually make it the method of choice. However, given the market’s saturation level, consumers are flooded with countless options, so determining which oral glutathione supplement is right for you can be challenging.
Below, we discuss how to choose a glutathione supplement that supports natural detoxification pathways in your body and promotes optimal cellular functions.*
Glutathione is a tripeptide made of three amino acids — cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine. In the body, glutathione exists in two states — reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG). Let’s first examine how the body absorbs glutathione to understand why it’s known as a conventionally difficult-to-absorb molecule.
Glutathione’s poor absorption and bioavailability in the body mean we should consider several things when choosing a glutathione supplement. The table below summarizes key traits to look for in an effective glutathione supplement to ensure it supports your body’s functions.
| Choosing A Glutathione Supplement: Factors to Consider | ||
| FEATURE | FUNCTION | |
| Absorbability | S-acetyl-glutathione is the most readily-absorbed and effective form of oral glutathione available. | |
| Phytonutrients | Research2 indicates that nutritional interventions, including phytochemicals, minerals, and other phytonutrients, enhance the level of circulating glutathione and translate to therapeutic benefits. | |
| Novel formulation | Novel supplement formulations, including nanoformulations, enhance3 the likelihood of glutathione’s water-soluble molecule to cross the water-repelling plasma membrane, thereby enhancing its absorption in the body. | |
With enhanced bioavailability and absorption, a glutathione supplement promotes detoxification pathways in your body for optimal antioxidant support.*
SafeCell® — developed by Tesseract Medical Research — is an innovative oral glutathione supplement formulation designed for superior absorption and efficacy. The supplement contains S-Acetyl-Glutathione, along with plant-derived enzymes, to increase intracellular glutathione levels and down-regulate oxidative stress in the body.*
To enhance glutathione’s absorption in the body, SafeCell’s formulation is engineered using the patent-pending and revolutionary CyLoc® – DexKey® nanomolecular nutrient delivery technology. A CyLoc® molecular matrix accompanied by a DexKey® release agent enables the nano-delivery of S-Acetyl-Glutathione molecules (one molecule at a time) for optimal absorption. The Tesseract Effect® transcends glutathione’s common absorption issues to maximize its therapeutic benefits as a master antioxidant and detoxifying agent.* The result is successful detoxification achieved at a level other glutathione supplements struggle to match.*
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing bioavailability and absorption, and micro-dosing multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they can help support your hepatic health.*
Citations
1Tateishi N, et al. The Journal of Nutrition vol. 107,1 (1977): 51-60. doi:10.1093/jn/107.1.51
2Minich DM, Brown BI. Nutrients vol. 11,9 2073. 3 Sep. 2019, doi:10.3390/nu11092073
3Bruggeman BK, et al. PloS one vol. 14,4 e0215815. 30 Apr. 2019, doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0215815
Article Summary:
Glutathione, a powerful antioxidant found in almost every cell of the body, supports a wide range of health functions.* A tripeptide compound of three amino acids — cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine — glutathione acts primarily as a detoxifying agent, efficiently scavenging different types of free radicals.* Glutathione’s antioxidant properties have prompted researchers to turn increasing levels of attention toward investigating glutathione for its potential role in promoting skin health and supporting optimal hair health.*
Below, we discuss some of glutathione’s benefits for hair growth and explain why you should include a glutathione nutritional supplement in your diet to promote healthy hair growth.*
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) — or free radicals — cause damage to key cellular components like DNA, RNA, lipids, proteins, and structural membranes. As a key part of the body’s endogenous defense mechanism, the presence of glutathione neutralizes and reduces these free radicals.*
The production of ROS increases with age, at the same time our internal defense mechanisms weaken, resulting in oxidative stress — an imbalance where ROS outnumber antioxidants in the body. It is widely presumed that progressive damage to cellular structures from oxidative stress is a key factor in the appearance of aging. In hair, this evidence of aging includes:
Circumstantial evidence2 suggests oxidative stress is the key factor behind graying hair and hair loss. Because glutathione’s primary function is down-regulating oxidative stress, supplementing your diet with glutathione-rich food sources is associated with supporting hair health. The following table summarizes how glutathione can play a role in delaying signs of aging in hair.*
| How Glutathione Supports Hair Health* | ||
| RESULTS | DETAILS | |
| Levels linked to hair color | An animal study3 links the degree of hair melanization (pigmentation) to glutathione levels. The enzymes that indirectly affect melanogenesis are glutathione reductase and glutathione peroxidase. | |
| Prevents hydrogen peroxide damage | Research shows4 how white scalp hair shafts accumulate hydrogen peroxide in minuscule concentrations. The oxidative damage to hair follicles by hydrogen peroxide is linked to senile hair graying. Various studies5 have established the role of glutathione peroxidase as a key enzyme in hydrogen peroxide removal. | |
As aging depletes the body’s endogenous levels of glutathione, additional oral intake of glutathione in the form of food and nutritional supplements can help maintain glutathione’s optimal production and recycling to support various body functions.*
A major challenge with the oral intake of glutathione is its rapid degradation in the stomach, which significantly limits its absorption and bioavailability. Poor absorption in the body means only a small amount of glutathione reaches the cells where it is needed most, thereby limiting its potential therapeutic effects.
SafeCell® — an acetylated form of glutathione developed by Tesseract Medical Research, transcends these common absorption issues. SafeCell’s innovative supplement formulation contains S-Acetyl-glutathione, the most readily absorbed and effective form of oral glutathione available.* Tesseract’s unprecedented CyLoc® – DexKey® nutrient delivery technology provides targeted nano-delivery of S-Acetyl-glutathione molecules at the cellular level, one molecule at a time. This unprecedented bioavailability and absorption of glutathione support the body’s natural detoxification pathways and promote optimal hair health.
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing bioavailability and absorption, and micro-dosing multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they can help support healthy aging.*
Citations
1Trüeb RM. Experimental Gerontology vol. 37,8-9 (2002): 981-990. doi:10.1016/s0531-5565(02)00093-1
2Harman D. Journal of Gerontology vol. 11,3 (1956): 298-300. doi:10.1093/geronj/11.3.298
3Galván I, et al. Physiological and Biochemical Zoology: PBZ vol. 85,4 (2012): 332-347. doi:10.1086/666606
4Wood JM, et al. FASEB Journal: Official Publication of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology vol. 23,7 (2009): 2065-2075. doi:10.1096/fj.08-125435
5Ng CF, et al. Free Radical Research vol. 41,11 (2007): 1201-1211. doi:10.1080/10715760701625075
Article Summary:
Studies demonstrate that anandamide, a neurotransmitter that binds to the cannabinoid receptors in the brain and elsewhere in the body, bestows an overall up-regulating effect on the brain’s reward circuitry.* Dopamine — another brain neurotransmitter — is well-known for modulating excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmissions between brain cells that control emotions, memory, movement, and reward. Lately, the close relationship between these two neurotransmitters and their role in inducing a sense of happiness has received significant scientific interest, owing to the immense potential for their application in adverse health and nutritional conditions.
Below, we discuss how anandamide and dopamine function together to support mental well-being* and how to enhance your body’s anandamide level with a nutritional supplement.
Before understanding how anandamide and dopamine are related, let’s look at the separate roles each one plays in influencing our moods.
In addition to being known as the “happy” or “feel-good” hormone, dopamine also functions as a neurotransmitter that carries messages between nerve cells. Although a low level of dopamine is related to certain neurodegenerative conditions in the body, a high level of dopamine can also be detrimental to cognitive functioning. An optimal level of dopamine falls somewhere between the two extremes at a median, or “Goldilocks” level — where everything is “just right.”
Anandamide
Synthesized in the brain by neurons, as well as in the body’s peripheral tissues, to modulate mood and memory, anandamide is a critical component of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Anandamide binds to and activates cannabinoid Type I (CB1) receptors and acts as a messenger molecule for responses to general stress and occasional anxiety (not Generalized Anxiety Disorder).*
The body’s natural production of anandamide can decrease because of certain undesirable health conditions, and its degradation can be exacerbated by excessive activity from the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) enzyme. Such reduced anandamide levels can compromise the body’s natural adaptive responses to stress- and anxiety-filled environments.
The endocannabinoid system, and anandamide in particular, is known to modulate dopamine activity via inhibitory and excitatory synapses, the minute gaps between nerve cells that carry messages along neurotransmitters, although the specific cellular mechanisms that produce these mitigating effects remain unknown. The table below summarizes the interrelated functions of anandamide and dopamine and how anandamide influences optimal dopamine levels in the body.
| Anandamide and Dopamine: Interrelated Functions | |
| FUNCTIONS | FINDINGS |
| Anandamide influences dopamine transmission* | Findings1 show anandamide modulates activity of dopamine transporter (DAT) — a protein that controls dopamine transmission* |
| Anandamide can increase extracellular dopamine levels* | When anandamide is injected intravenously in alert, free-moving rats2, it increases extracellular dopamine levels |
| Anandamide can interact with the dopaminergic system* to trigger the brain’s neural circuits* * The dopaminergic system involves the synthesis and secretion of dopamine. | An animal study3 showed anandamide release increased eight times above baseline levels after introducing a dopamine receptor agonist — a chemical that binds to or blocks certain receptors |
Many other studies have established anandamide’s role in beneficially influencing dopamine levels. Furthermore, the activation of dopamine D2-autoreceptors — which are key components in dopamine synthesis, release, and uptake — has been found4 to enhance the body’s anandamide concentrations by increasing synthesis and diminishing degradation.* Given such deeply interrelated functions and the combined effects of anandamide and dopamine on a wide range of brain activities,* it is critical to maintain an optimal level of anandamide production in the body.
Although the body naturally produces anandamide, certain adverse health conditions can inhibit its synthesis and release. Also, excessive activity of the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) enzyme can further aggravate the degradation of anandamide, resulting in compromised neurological functions.
A healthy lifestyle and a well-balanced diet containing anandamide-rich foods support an optimal level of anandamide production in the body. In addition, an anandamide nutritional supplement can help fill the gaps in your diet.
Developed by Tesseract Medical Research, AnaQuell® is an innovative supplement formulation containing anandamide and L-citrulline to support a healthy response to mild anxiety (not GAD), stress, mood changes, and trauma. Enhanced by Tesseract’s proprietary CyLoc® – DexKey® nutrient delivery technology, AnaQuell is designed for the unprecedented absorption and bioavailability of anandamide and citrulline in the body to promote optimal neurological health.*
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing bioavailability and absorption, and micro-dosing multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they can help support neurological health.*
Citations:
1Oz M, et al. Journal of Neurochemistry vol. 112,6 (2010): 1454-1464. doi:10.1111/j.1471-4159.2009.06557.x
2Solinas M, et al. Journal of Neurochemistry vol. 98,2 (2006): 408-419. doi:10.1111/j.1471-4159.2006.03880.x
3Giuffrida A, et al. Nature Neuroscience vol. 2,4 (1999): 358-363. doi:10.1038/7268
4Centonze D, et al. Neuropsychopharmacology: Official Publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology vol. 29,8 (2004): 1488-1497. doi:10.1038/sj.npp.1300458
Article Summary:
It might not seem obvious, but the foods you eat can affect your brain health to a great extent. Several studies1 show a correlation between brain function and overall diet composition, including specific dietary components like anandamide.
Chemically, anandamide is a naturally occurring derivative of arachidonic acid that can stimulate a sense of happiness and mental well-being.* Including this ‘bliss molecule’ in your diet can promote and optimize a wide range of health functions, including memory, sleep, appetite, and healthy responses to mood changes and stress.*
Below, we discuss several anandamide-rich foods that can naturally support brain function and how an anandamide supplement can help fill in nutritional gaps in your diet.
Anandamide is an endocannabinoid, a lipid-based neurotransmitter produced inside the body. When you include food sources that contain anandamide in your diet, you stimulate its natural production. Some food sources, like cocoa beans and truffles, contain anandamide, while other foods contain compounds that act as anandamide precursors to increase this endocannabinoid’s activity or level in the body.
The following table lists food sources for natural support of your body’s anandamide production.
| Vegetables and fruits | Vegetables and fruits contain kaempferol — a flavonoid that inhibits the action of the enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), which can delay the enzyme’s breakdown of anandamide. Cruciferous, yellow, and green leafy vegetables, such as kale, cabbage, green beans, cucumber, squash, tomatoes, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts. Fruits such as berries (gooseberries, blackberries, raspberries, strawberries), apples, grapes, citrus fruits, peaches, and grapefruit. |
| Proteins | Meat, fish, seafood, and eggs are rich sources of arachidonic acid — an essential polyunsaturated fatty acid responsible for generating anandamide naturally. |
| Spices and herbs | Black pepper and long pepper contain guineensine — a novel plant compound that inhibits the cellular uptake of anandamide. Herbs like dill, chives, saffron, and tarragon contain kaempferol that inhibits FAAH activity. |
| Beverages | Beverages like tea — particularly green and black Kenyan tea — also contain kaempferol. |
| Chocolate | The mood-boosting effects of chocolate are attributed2 to cacao beans or nibs, which contain various beneficial compounds, including anandamide. The less processed the chocolate (without sugar) you consume, the more beneficial its effects will be. |
| Truffles | Studies find3 these underground mushrooms contain endocannabinoid metabolic enzymes, as well as anandamide. |
In addition to these food sources, a nutritional supplement that contains anandamide can also help stimulate its production in your body to support your mental well-being.*
Anandamide’s positive influence on various brain activities, including memory, sleep, appetite, and others, has been studied4 extensively.* The amino acid L-citrulline is a precursor of L-arginine, a key component in the production of nitric oxide (NO), which is known for relaxing blood vessels and enhancing blood supply to the brain, thereby playing a role in inducing neuronal activities. Tesseract Medical Research has developed AnaQuell® — a powerful supplement formulation that takes advantage of the therapeutic benefits of both anandamide and L-citrulline to promote a healthy response to mild anxiety (not General Anxiety Disorder), mood changes, stress, and trauma.*
To further enhance the body’s absorption of anandamide, the AnaQuell formulation utilizes Tesseract’s revolutionary CyLoc® – DexKey® nutrient delivery system, leading to more positive therapeutic outcomes. CyLoc® technology encases individual molecules of the active ingredient in a dextrin fiber delivery cage to maintain its integrity during transit through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Tesseract’s DexKey® technology enables the targeted delivery of billions of active ingredient molecules – one molecule at a time, at the desired release point in the GI tract for maximum absorption. This optimal delivery capability enables micro-dosing of the active ingredients in a single capsule, resulting in a powerful physiological response.
AnaQuell®’s innovative formula is available in a sustained release (SR) format, for prolonged support of your mental and emotional well-being.*
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing bioavailability and absorption, and micro-dosing multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they can help support neurological health.*
Citations
1Ekstrand B, et al. Nutrition Reviews vol. 79,6 (2021): 693-708. doi:10.1093/nutrit/nuaa091
2Nehlig A. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology vol. 75,3 (2013): 716-727. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2125.2012.04378.x
3Pacioni G, et al. Phytochemistry vol. 110 (2015): 104-110. doi:10.1016/j.phytochem.2014.11.012
4Scherma M, et al. Acta Pharmacologica Sinica vol. 40,3 (2019): 309-323. doi:10.1038/s41401-018-0075-x
Did you know that a ‘bliss’ molecule called anandamide regulates your emotional and mental well-being?* Although defined as a cannabinoid, anandamide is not derived from the cannabis plant. Instead, your body produces anandamide (endogenously), as an endocannabinoid.
Get the answers to your questions about this endocannabinoid, its potential therapeutic effects on your health, and the best way to include it in your diet. Use the links below to jump ahead to different topics on the page.
Are you considering anandamide supplements? Shop Products that support your neurological health.
Anandamide was first identified in 1992 as an endogenous human cannabinoid that plays a critical role in maintaining a state of internal equilibrium.* The name, derived from the Sanskrit word ‘ananda,’ for ‘internal bliss,’ highlights its beneficial effects in regulating our brain functions and mental well-being.* Chemically speaking, anandamide is made up of arachidonyl-ethanolamide (AEA), a lipid-based neurotransmitter with a flexible molecular structure that helps it bind to the body’s cannabinoid receptors in different regions of the body and brain.*
Although it is produced naturally in the body, certain foods, like cocoa beans and truffles, also contain significant concentrations of anandamide. Other dietary sources contain compounds that act as precursors to anandamide production in your body.
Anandamide positively influences various functions to support mental health, like enhancing sleep cycles, maintaining a healthy appetite, dilating blood vessels, and others.* Current research indicates that anandamide supports a healthy response to mood changes, trauma, stress, and mild anxiety (not Generalized Anxiety Disorder, or GAD).* The following table lists the potential therapeutic effects of anandamide in the body.
| System | Therapeutic Applications |
| Brain Health | As part of the body’s endocannabinoid system, anandamide stimulates emotional and stress responses.* Clinical studies1 show that anandamide modulates vigilance states, influencing sleep cycles.*Research shows2 elevated anandamide levels can have a beneficial effect on short-term memory.*In animal studies, anandamide has been found to enhance learning and memory processes in the brain.* |
| Heart Health | Anandamide is associated3 with inducing vasodilation, the widening of pulmonary arteries and other blood vessels, which supports good heart health.* |
| Gastrointestinal Health | Clinical and animal studies4 highlight anandamide’s role in initiating and modulating positive appetitive behavior in animals and humans.* |
| Immune Health | Anandamide plays a positive role5 in supporting healthy immune responses by modulating the activities of immune cells.* |
A widespread neuromodulatory system in our body, the endocannabinoid system (ECS), plays a critical role in neuronal synaptic communication — the communication between neurons across tiny gaps or synapses. The endocannabinoid system affects various biological functions to maintain homeostasis or a balanced internal environment. The endocannabinoid system consists of:
Anandamide primarily binds to CB1 receptors and is broken down by FAAH enzymes into ethanolamine and arachidonic acid. The ‘bliss molecule’ anandamide also plays a critical role in influencing the activities of the feel-good hormones in the brain — dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins.* So, the next time you feel happy or sad, you can blame it on varying levels of hormones and anandamide.*
How Anandamide Regulates Emotional and Mental Well-Being* | |
| Interaction with Hormones | Effects |
| Anandamide + Dopamine | Anandamide primarily binds to CB1 receptors that have been found6 to induce dopamine release in the brain.* |
| Anandamide + Oxytocin | The stimulation of oxytocin-producing neurons in the brain is associated7 with enhanced anandamide production.* |
| Anandamide + Serotonin | Studies8 show that anandamide and 2-AG regulate serotonin levels to beneficially influence stress-related behaviors.* |
| Anandamide + Endorphins | Research tudies9 in mice show anandamide’s positive role in stimulating the sense of well-being or ‘runner’s high’ reported by endurance athletes.* |
Research indicates that physical exercises, circadian rhythm (sleep cycle), stressful environments, and other physiological factors or pathological conditions can influence circulating concentrations of endocannabinoids.
Anandamide is produced in the body through various complex pathways that are not yet completely understood. A dip in anandamide level is often associated with its increased degradation by the FAAH enzyme. Interestingly, some individuals might be genetically predisposed to a higher anandamide level due to a variant FAAH gene.
Your body might not have an optimal anandamide level because of:
Given anandamide’s positive role in various body and brain functions, a suboptimal level of the ‘bliss’ molecule can adversely affect the entire body, influencing the ability to cope with stress and non-GAD anxiety.*
It is well-known that the chemical structure of anandamide is similar to two important phytocannabinoids derived from the cannabis plant, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). As a result, THC mimics anandamide functions by directly interacting with endocannabinoid receptors. CBD has been found to influence endocannabinoid receptor functions indirectly and also shows the potential to enhance endogenous anandamide signaling indirectly.
Although THC and CBD can stimulate anandamide signaling, the advisability of including them as dietary sources is debatable. THC induces psychoactive or mind-altering effects, and while CBD has no such effects, it is not approved as a nutritional supplement or food additive by the FDA.
Different approaches can help stimulate endogenous anandamide production, such as consuming anandamide-rich foods, maintaining an active lifestyle, and incorporating an anandamide supplement into your diet.
Shop Products that help enhance anandamide levels in your body.
Although food sources, such as truffle and chocolate, can stimulate anandamide production, they only contain small amounts of anandamide that might not be sufficient to maintain its optimal level in the body. A nutritional supplement is a convenient way to ingest anandamide orally with some formulations containing relatively higher concentrations to enable:
The efficacy of a nutritional anandamide supplement depends on how well it is absorbed in the body before it can extend therapeutic benefits. Enzymes in the gastrointestinal tract usually hinder the intact absorption of anandamide in free form through the gut wall.
Supplement formulations containing anandamide-loaded nanoparticles have been found10 to be more easily absorbed across the gut wall, making them more therapeutically effective.
It is advisable to seek medical advice if you are experiencing any symptoms of low anandamide levels and need to include a supplement in your diet.
Before including any new nutritional supplement in your diet or taking one along with a prescription medicine, you should consult with your health-care provider. You should also consult your health-care provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding and considering anandamide supplementation.
The efficacy of an anandamide supplement depends on how well it is absorbed in the body. Tesseract’s AnaQuell®, a proprietary nutritional supplement formulation, contains anandamide and L-citrulline to support a healthy response to mood changes, trauma, mild non-GAD anxiety, and stress.* Adding the amino acid L-citrulline to AnaQuell helps improve blood flow and nutrient delivery to the brain.*
Tesseract’s revolutionary CyLoc® – DexKey® technology is a nanomolecular nutrient delivery system that solubilizes anandamide, enhances its absorption across the gut wall, and releases anandamide molecules at the desired point in the intestinal tract. This unprecedented absorption and bioavailability of anandamide molecules allows for micro-dosing of the formulation to support your mental and emotional health.*
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing bioavailability and absorption, and micro-dosing multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop productson our website and learn more about how they can help support neurological health.*
Works Cited:
1Murillo-Rodríguez E, et al. Brain Research vol. 812,1-2 (1998): 270-274. doi:10.1016/s0006-8993(98)00969-x
2Goonawardena Anushka V, et al. Neuropharmacology vol. 61,5-6 (2011): 1016-1025. doi:10.1016/j.neuropharm.2011.07.003
3Akerman S, et al. British Journal of Pharmacology vol. 142,8 (2004): 1354-1360. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0705896
4Jamshidi N, Taylor DA. British Journal of Pharmacology vol. 134,6 (2001): 1151-1154. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0704379
5Chiurchiù V, et al. Immunology vol. 144,3 (2015): 352-364. doi:10.1111/imm.12441
6Sperlágh B, et al. Neurochemistry International vol. 54,7 (2009): 452-457. doi:10.1016/j.neuint.2009.01.017
7Wei D, et al. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America vol. 112,45 (2015): 14084-14089. doi:10.1073/pnas.1509795112
8Haj-Dahmane S, Roh-Yu S. Neuropharmacology vol. 61,3 (2011): 414-420. doi:10.1016/j.neuropharm.2011.02.016
9Fuss J, et al. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America vol. 112,42 (2015): 13105-13108. doi:10.1073/pnas.1514996112
10Aberturas MR, et al. Journal of Microencapsulation vol. 28,3 (2011): 200-210. doi:10.3109/02652048.2010.546436
Quercetin is a flavonoid — a class of plant pigments displaying antioxidant effects and supporting the body’s natural response to inflammation (like curcumin, found in turmeric).* Quercetin is found in a wide range of fruits and vegetables, like apples, grapes, berries, tomatoes, shallots, onions, capers, seeds, and nuts, and in different plant parts, including bark, leaves, and flowers.
As an antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals and limits oxidative stress in the body, quercetin has immense therapeutic potential to benefit various health conditions, including those related to sleep.*
Many traditional East Asian cultures credit lotus leaf extract for its sleep-enhancing effects. Notably, the lotus leaf contains high levels of flavonoids — specifically, quercetin and its derivatives*
Below, we discuss some of the most frequently asked questions about quercetin, its therapeutic benefits in attenuating behavior caused by sleep deprivation, safety and tolerance levels, and its ingestion in supplement forms to support your overall health.*
Let’s look at some of the common questions that might come to mind when you consider supplementing with quercetin to improve your sleep.
Current research suggests the potential role of quercetin in modulating the sleep-wake cycle by activating GABA receptors — the chief inhibitory receptors for the central nervous system.* In an animal study1, quercetin limited brain oxidative stress induced by paradoxical sleep, or REM sleep deprivation, in mice.*
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds can naturally enhance your quercetin intake. Quercetin supplements are also a suitable alternative for both oral ingestion and topical application. While oral ingestion of quercetin helps support the immune system, cardiovascular health, sleep regulation, and others, topical applications of quercetin are primarily aimed toward wound healing. It is recommended to consult with your healthcare practitioner before including a quercetin supplement in your diet or applying it topically.
Isolated quercetin as a nutritional supplement at 1000 mg/day3 is considered a safe usage. Among the published human intervention studies,4 adverse effects of quercetin supplementation have rarely been reported and any such adverse effects were mild in nature. However, it is worth noting that adequate published scientific data is not yet available to assess the safety of long-term usage (12 weeks or more) of high supplemental quercetin levels (1,000 mg daily or above).
Although the therapeutic activities of quercetin are well established,* it has poor water solubility, chemical instability, and low bioavailability.5 Quercetin requires zinc to activate its therapeutic effects on the body. So, it is not a coincidence that zinc, the second most abundant trace metal in the body, is also involved in sleep regulation. The current research data6 suggest that zinc consumed orally enhances the amount and quality of sleep in mice and humans.
You might consider taking a nutritional supplement that contains both quercetin and zinc to improve the body’s absorption of quercetin. Quercetin binds to zinc and acts as a transporter, carrying zinc ions across the cell membrane to enhance the intracellular zinc concentration.*
Although quercetin is widely considered to be safe as a nutritional supplement, you should consult with your health-care provider before including a quercetin supplement in your diet. Insufficient research data exists on quercetin effects during pregnancy and breastfeeding. So, it is always recommended to seek medical advice before consuming a quercetin supplement with any prescription medicine.
An effective quercetin nutritional supplement offers enhanced bioavailability of the active ingredient for optimal therapeutic benefit.* QuerciSorb® Immophore SR — an innovative nutritional supplement developed by Tesseract Medical Research — contains bioactive, soluble, and absorbable quercetin, along with zinc, vitamin D, and vitamin C to support your overall health.* The revolutionary CyLoc® – DexKey® nutrient delivery technology ensures that quercetin is delivered one molecule at a time at the desired point in the intestinal tract and absorbed through the gut wall, along with other therapeutic ingredients. Developed for sustained release (SR), QuerciSorb® Immuphore SR makes it easy for the body to absorb and use quercetin effectively.
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing bioavailability and absorption, and micro-dosing multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they can help support cardiovascular health.*
Citations:
1 Kanazawa, Luiz KS, et al. Free Radical Biology & Medicine vol. 99 (2016): 79-86. doi:10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2016.07.027
3Deepika, Maurya PK. Molecules 2022 Apr 13;27(8):2498. doi: 10.3390/molecules27082498. PMID: 35458696; PMCID: PMC9032170.
4Andres, Susanne et al. Molecular Nutrition & Food Research vol. 62,1 (2018): 10.1002/mnfr.201700447. doi:10.1002/mnfr.201700447
5Acıkara OB, Karatoprak GŞ, et al. CNS Neurol Disord Drug Targets 2022;21(9):795-817. doi: 10.2174/1871527320666211206122407. PMID: 34872486.
6 Yoan C, Urade Y. International Journal of Molecular Sciences vol. 18,11 2334. 5 Nov. 2017, doi:10.3390/ijms18112334
Article Summary:
Although you might not have heard much yet about anandamide, it’s a nutrient that plays a critical role in making you feel happy. Its name comes from ananda — the Sanskrit word for internal bliss or happiness. Although it is a lesser-known brain compound, anandamide is one of the most important endocannabinoids — the lipid molecules the body produces that influence brain functions and regulate our emotions and behavior.
Below, we discuss various benefits of anandamide and how to enhance its natural production to support mental and overall well-being.*
Before understanding anandamide’s benefits, let’s take a closer look at how the human endocannabinoid system functions and how anandamide, as an integral component, works to stimulate it.
As a complex biological system in humans and other animals, the endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a part in various physiological functions, like pain sensation, mood, appetite, and immune function. The ECS has three core components: endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes.
Acting as a neurotransmitter, anandamide binds to and activates cannabinoid receptors in the brain and the body to maintain a state of balance called homeostasis.* The table below details some key anandamide benefits for supporting homeostasis.*
| Anandamide Benefits | |
| Mood Regulation* | Several studies1 demonstrate that anandamide modulates emotional responses to stress.* |
| Immunoregulation* | Anandamide plays a beneficial role2 in regulating immune responses in the gut and the pancreas.* |
| Appetite Stimulation* | Research3 suggests the potential beneficial role of anandamide in inducing appetite by stimulating CB1 receptors.* |
| Learning and Memory* | In animal studies, anandamide has been shown to enhance learning and memory processes in the hippocampus* — a complex structure in the brain’s temporal lobe. |
| Sleep Induction* | Clinical studies4 indicate that anandamide enhances adenosine levels, a sleep-inducing molecule in the brain.* |
Anandamide further provides beneficial support for motor control5, reproductive system function, muscle formation, and bone remodeling and growth.* However, the various mechanisms by which anandamide influences these functions and dispenses its beneficial effects are not yet fully understood.
As noted above, the chemical structure of anandamide is similar to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), which are derived from the plant Cannabis sativa, or marijuana. Although biochemical studies suggest that cannabidiol can enhance endogenous anandamide signaling, there are different approaches to stimulating the body’s anandamide production:
AnaQuellTM, developed by Tesseract Medical Research, is an advanced nutritional supplement formulation that contains anandamide and L-Citrulline to support a healthy response to mild anxiety (not Generalized Anxiety Disorder), mood changes, and stress.* Tesseract’s proprietary CyLoc® – DexKey® nanomolecular delivery technology solubilizes anandamide to deliver it through the gut wall for unprecedented absorption and bioavailability. L-citrulline — a necessary component for producing nitric oxide, further enhances overall nutrient delivery and blood flow to the brain, thereby promoting your neurological health.*
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing bioavailability and absorption, and micro-dosing multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they can help support neurological health.*
Citations:
1Gobbi, G et al. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America vol. 102,51 (2005): 18620-5. doi:10.1073/pnas.0509591102
2Pandey, Rupal et al. “Endocannabinoids and immune regulation.” Pharmacological research vol. 60,2 (2009): 85-92. doi:10.1016/j.phrs.2009.03.019
3Jamshidi, N, and Taylor DA. British Journal of Pharmacology vol. 134,6 (2001): 1151-4. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0704379
3Murillo-Rodriguez, Eric et al. Sleep vol. 26,8 (2003): 943-7. doi:10.1093/sleep/26.8.943
4Stone, Nicole L et al. Frontiers in behavioral neuroscience vol. 12 269. 26 Nov. 2018, doi:10.3389/fnbeh.2018.00269
5El Manira, A, and A Kyriakatos. “The role of endocannabinoid signaling in motor control.” Physiology (Bethesda, Md.) vol. 25,4 (2010): 230-8. doi:10.1152/physiol.00007.2010
