The protein used in Absorb Plus is of the highest quality, composed of cold-extracted whey protein isolate only (no casein or egg albumin) and 99.8% of the lactose has been removed. Protein is vitally important, not only for gaining weight, but for a myriad of functions within the body. Aside from water, protein makes up the greatest portion of our body weight. Muscles, ligaments, tendons, organs, glands, nails, hair, enzymes, hormones and genes are all composed of protein.

The protein component of Absorb Plus is a hydrolyzed whey protein isolate derived from an ion-exchange, cold cross-flow membrane extraction method. This means the protein is not denatured (by heat or chemicals) but the di-sulphide bonds remain intact and the protein can be easily absorbed and utilized by the body. Ion-exchange whey protein also creates sustained increases in glutathione (a key antioxidant and antiviral) which creates resistance to a variety of diseases and carcinogens. Other components of whey protein isolate provide the following beneficial actions in the body

• Alpha-lactalbumin consumption enhances tryptophan and immune function and reduces the stress hormone cortisol.
• Tryptophan is used by the brain to manufacture serotonin. This is important because serotonin deficiency plays a role in the development of depression, anxiety, moodiness and insomnia.
• Glycomacropeptides stimulate the hormone cholecystokinin, which is responsible for the release of pancreatic enzymes and the healthy contraction of the gallbladder and bowels.
• Lactoferrin is an antioxidant that is also a powerful antiviral and antibacterial agent shown to inhibit the growth of E.coli, salmonella and candida in the gut. It also helps ensure the optimal use of iron in the body by binding to iron and preventing oxidation.

Whey protein is also an alkaline food, so it's ideal for counteracting the usually hyper-acidic body pH levels of people with gastro-intestinal problems. Don't be surprised if your heartburn lessens or disappears after using Absorb Plus regularly - especially if you consume 3 or more servings per day.

With a Biological Value (BV) of 159, the BV of the protein contained in Absorb Plus is one of the highest available. By comparison, an egg, long considered by scientists to be an ideal source of easily digested protein, has a BV of 100. In addition, because the whey protein is isolated from the rest of the milk components, it's virtually lactose-free (99.8%) and easily tolerated. The commonly allergenic protein components (like casein) have been removed and the protein composition is 48% beta-lactoglobulin, 22% alpha-lactalbumin, 22% Glycomacropeptides, 3% BSA, 2% immunoglobulins and less than 1% lactoferrin.

The amount of protein per serving contained in Absorb Plus (27 grams) was selected because research on bodybuilders has shown the maximum amount of protein that can be absorbed at any one time is 30-50 grams - the rest is flushed out in urine. Since Absorb Plus consumers are unlikely to be bodybuilders, we set the protein content (including amino acids) a few grams lower to ensure maximum utilization.

The protein component in some other formulas consists solely of free-form amino acids so as to avoid any potential allergic reactions. However, amino acids on their own are virtually useless for building muscle - i.e. putting meat on your bones. The only way amino acids can be used to maintain or gain weight is by 'piggybacking' on a di-peptide or tri-peptide bond protein (like whey protein). Absorb Plus' whey protein also has a far superior BV to soy (74) or rice protein (59) - and frankly, as most people agree, it tastes a lot better. However, as mentioned above, the whey protein in Absorb Plus has also had the commonly allergenic milk protein and lactose components removed and so may be safe for people with a 'milk allergy'.

*Please test a small amount first to be sure and if your allergy is severe, then don't consume, or only do so under the supervision of your physician.

The carbohydrate mix is composed mostly of maltodextrin which has a slower uptake into the bloodstream than glucose or fructose. This helps you avoid getting a 'sugar rush' with the resultant high-low mood cycle.

The carbohydrate mix is composed mostly of maltodextrin, which has a slower uptake into the bloodstream than glucose or fructose. This helps you avoid getting a 'sugar rush' with the resultant high-low mood cycle. This also reduces osmotic pressure and provides for variable absorption rates of glucose. If a large amount of glucose hits the bloodstream all at once, it produces a spike in blood sugar, which results in an energy 'high' followed by a crash. Having the highest proportion of carbohydrate as maltodextrin helps avoid this problem.

The next highest carbohydrate component is fructose, which is the natural sugar derived from fruit. Glucose is also a monosaccharide (single sugar molecule) and therefore should be safe for those with a sugar allergy or sensitivity.

There is no fat or oil in Absorb Plus so it can easily be used by those with a complete fat intolerance. For all others, we recommend adding organic, cold-pressed flax oil (good fat) or Udo's Choice Oil Bend - between 1 tsp. to 1 tbsp. per shake.

People who have an oil or fat intolerance are usually consuming hydrogenated or heat/chemical-extracted oils. As soon as an oil or fat is heated past a certain point (often just pan frying is too hot), the molecular structure alters, rendering the oil difficult to digest and actually harmful to cell membranes.

We encourage you to add organic, unrefined, cold-pressed, flax seed or Udo's oil to your Absorb Plus shakes, to increase Omega 3 and 'good fat' (Essential Fatty Acid) levels in your body, if you wish. We haven't included any flax oil in Absorb Plus for three reasons: Firstly, we wanted the product to work for people who have a complete fat intolerance, secondly, any cold-pressed oil needs to be kept refrigerated and in a dark container at all times or the fat denatures and becomes rancid. This would pose serious problems in shipping the product to you, so we chose instead to keep the product fat-free and encourage you to add your own from a bottle of flax oil you can buy refrigerated at the grocery store and then keep in your fridge. Thirdly, as different people can tolerate different levels of fat (dependent on type and location of illness and degree of inflammation), we felt it best to allow you to add the level of fat that's right for you.

We suggest you start with 1 teaspoon of organic, cold-pressed flax or Udo's oil per shake (whip with Absorb Plus and water in the blender) and gradually increase to 1 tablespoon of oil per shake. Flax oil is a very delicate, unstable oil, so make sure you only buy an organic, cold-pressed brand that's been kept in the refrigerator. Be sure to buy a small bottle and keep it refrigerated, use it up within 4-6 weeks of opening so it doesn't start to oxidize (become rancid) and irritate your gut. If you've been hemorrhaging or are very sensitive to oil, you may want to keep your bottle of flax or Udo's oil in the freezer (it doesn't solidify completely) and squeeze it out as needed - this reduces the oxidation by 95%. If you find you're still sensitive to flax oil, then try the Udo's Choice Oil Blend - you may find it better tolerated.

Depending on your level of health (liver function, antioxidant capability, etc.) you'll be able to consume more or less oil. So let your body and your symptoms be your guide and find the level of supplementation that's right for your body. You can also use hemp oil, but the taste is quite strong so you may not like it. You may want to use flax oil in one shake, then Udo's in the next, and so on throughout the day. The Udo's is more expensive though, so if cost is an issue, then just use the flax oil. If you're completely intolerant of any liquid oils, then take enteric coated capsules of either flax oil, or fish oil (make sure the company tests for fish oil toxicity though) to get your anti-inflammatory Omega-3 and other essential fatty acids.

Most of the fat we consume is in unusable forms, which irritate our digestive system. Cold-pressed flax oil is absorbed very quickly and even people with a marked 'fat-intolerance' have no problem with it. Since the 1950's, most westerners have been severely deficient in Essential Fatty Acids (EFA) which leads to a wide variety of problems in the body. Regular ingestion of flax oil cures this deficiency. You can safely supplement up to 8-10 tablespoons per day of flax or Udo's oil and a good maintenance dose is 1-2 tablespoons per day.

Flax (and Udo's) oil has a very mild, unobtrusive taste and is also great in salad dressings, drizzled over cooked vegetables, or stirred into dips, salsa or yoghurt. However, do not heat the oil or use it to fry foods as this destroys the Essential Fatty Acids. Cold-water fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines and herring also contain high levels of Omega-3 and other 'good fats' (EFA, GLA) needed by the body. If you try to work flax oil or Udo's oil (Essential Fatty Acids) into these other areas of your diet it will soon be easy and delicious to get the amount you need each day. The other major benefit is that Omega-3 is a powerful anti-inflammatory and has been used solely in double-blind, placebo controlled studies to induce remission in patients with Crohn's Disease (The New England Journal of Medicine, June 13, 1996). To get even higher levels of these anti-inflammatories per tablespoon, use a high lignan organic cold-pressed flax oil.

Absorb Plus is one of the few products on the market containing 100% natural flavoring. Our unique natural flavor blends include French Vanilla, Mixed Berry and Chocolate Royale and are truly yummy. Suffice it to say, we have spent considerable time and effort getting each flavor to taste absolutely delicious!

Most liquid shake products use artificial flavoring as their production cost is much cheaper. However, at Absorb Plus we'll never sacrifice quality and integrity for profit and we use only 100% natural flavors in all our delicious blends: French Vanilla, Mixed Berry and Chocolate Royale. If you love chocolate but tend to be sensitive to it, check out our Recipe section for great ideas on how to have your chocolate without the adverse reaction.

The sweetener used in Absorb Plus is a natural fruit-source monosaccharide sugar called Fructose This is the natural sugar found in all fruits and some vegetables.

The sweetener used in Absorb Plus is a natural fruit-source monosaccharide sugar called Fructose. This is the natural sugar found in all fruits and some vegetables. Absorb Plus contains 56 grams of Maltodextrin (a glucose polymer) and 15 grams of Fructose per serving. The amount of Fructose in one serving of Absorb Plus is equivalent to that found in a medium size apple.

Because fructose must be changed to glucose in the liver in order to be utilized by the body, blood glucose levels do not rise as rapidly after fructose consumption compared to other simple sugars or even complex carbohydrates. For example, the glycemic load calculation for 10 grams of fructose is only 2. In comparison, the glycemic load for a slice of bread is 10, an apple is 7, and a cup of white rice is 26.

Fructose is not transported directly into the bloodstream after digestion and absorption, but is converted into glycogen in the liver where it is stored and used for energy at a later time. A recent trial demonstrated that no increase is seen in blood glucose after ingestion of fructose at 15 grams or less. This lowered glycemic response with fructose ingestion appeared to be most effective in those individuals who had the poorest glucose tolerance profiles. In non-diabetic individuals, fructose consumption results in little to no discernable rise in blood insulin levels.

Most meal replacement or elemental diet products use artificial sweeteners like aspartame, splenda/sucralose, or acesulfame-K. Independent research has shown all of these artificial sweeteners to be harmful to the body - for more information do an Internet keyword search on any of the sweeteners above. Absorb Plus does not use any artificial or chemical ingredients, period. Our elemental formula is sweetened only with natural fructose.

References:

1. Ensminger AH, Ensminger ME, Konlande JE, et al. Foods and Nutrition Encyclopedia .Clovis, CA : Pegas Press; 1983.
2. Mann JI. Simple sugars and diabetes. DiabetMed 1987;4(2):135-39.
3. Uusitupa MIJ. Fructose in the diabetic diet. Am J Clin Nutr 1994;59(3 Suppl):S753-S57.
4. Shi X, Schedl HP, Summers RM, et at. Fructose transport mechanisms in humans. Gastroenterology 1997;113(4):1171-79.
5. Moore MC, Cherrington AD, Mann SL, et at. Acute & fructose administration decreases the glycemic response to an oral glucose tolerance test in normal adults. J Clm Endocrinol Metab 2000;85(12):4515-19.
6. Nuttall FQ, Khan MA, Gannon MC. Peripheral glucose appearance rate following fructose ingestion in normal subjects. Metabolism 2000;49(12):1565-71.
7. Moore MC, Mann SL, Davis SN, et at. Acute fructose administration improves oral glucose tolerance in adults with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care 2001;24(11):1882-87
8. Osei K, Bossetti B. Dietary fructose as a natural sweetener in poorly controlled type 2 diabetes: a 12-month crossover study of effects on glucose, lipoprotein and apolipoprotein metabolism. Diabet Med 1989;6(6):506-11.
9. Daly ME, Vale C, Walker M, et al. Dietary carbohydrates and insulin sensitivity: a review ofthe evidence and clinical implications. Am J Clin Nutr 1997;66(5):1072-85.
10. Dr. Michael T. Murray's Natural Facts Newsletter 2/3/2004

Absorb Plus contains an extensive array of free-form amino acids. Amino acids are crucial to virtually every function of the body and our profile contains many which are specifically helpful for those with IBD & IBS. When combined with whey protein, amino acids are fully utilizable for building muscle and gaining solid weight (ie. not fat).

The amino acids specially added to Absorb Plus have been selected for the specific functions and benefits they provide the body and immune system. For example, Absorb Plus contains a full gram (1000 mg) of L-Glutamine per serving. L-Glutamine is an amino acid that is the primary nutrient for the mucosal lining of the intestine. Often, intestinal healing formulas (in capsule form) contain L-Glutamine as a primary ingredient as it has been shown to heal conditions ranging from ulcers to Crohn's lesions.

Absorb Plus also supports hormone health and gland functioning due to its extensive array of vitamins, minerals and amino acids. Hormone pathways require certain vitamins, minerals and amino acids at key points to facilitate their synthesis. Unfortunately, due to prescription drug use (eg. Prednisone, Birth Control Pill, etc.) adrenal and thyroid gland function is often impaired in people with Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Absorb Plus supports the body in its return to balanced hormone levels and glandular function.

All the amino acids in Absorb Plus are present in the L-form, which means they are in the same natural form as amino acids found in living plant and animal tissue. And we've purposely included those that enhance the action or absorption of other key amino acids, vitamins and minerals.

• Following are the free-form amino acids contained in Absorb Plus (this is a custom-blend that's been added, NOT just the naturally occurring amino acids found in the whey protein) and a brief outline of some of the key functions of each:
  
  

  L-Alanine	aids in the metabolism of glucose for energy
  L-Aspartic Acid	increases stamina, protects the liver, aids cell function and RNA/DNA formation
  L-Cystine	aids in skin formation, helps heal burns and wounds, assists in the supply of insulin to the pancreas
  L-Glutamic Acid	aside from glucose, is the only compound used for brain fuel. Increases firing of neurons in nervous system, metabolizes sugars and fats
  L-Glutamine	primary substance used to rebuild the intestinal mucosal cell lining
  L-Glycine	retards muscle degeneration, necessary for central nervous system function and a healthy prostate
  L-Proline	used in healing cartilage, strengthens joints, tendons and the heart muscle
  L-Serinee	needed for proper metabolism of fats and fatty acids, aids in production of immunoglobulins and antibodies
  L-Threonine	helps maintain protein balance in the body, aids formation of collagen and elastin
  L-Tyrosine	aids function of pituitary, adrenal and thyroid glands. Used to treat anxiety, depression, headaches and allergies

  
  
• In addition, the following amino acids are automatically present in the whey protein isolate contained in Absorb Plus:
  
  

  L-Arginine	retards growth of tumors and cancers by enhancing immune function, aids in liver detoxification, is involved in a number of enzyme and hormonal pathways, is a major component of collagen and aids in building new bone and tendon cells
  L-Histadine	helps in tissue growth and repair, useful for treating ulcers, hyperacidity, allergies, rhematoid arthritis and anemia
  L-Isoleucine	needed for hemoglobin formation, stabilizes and regulates blood sugar and energy levels.
  L-Leucine	promotes the healing of bones, skin and tissue
  L-Lysine	aids calcium absorption and production of antibodies, hormones and enzymes, helps build muscle, collagen formation and tissue repair
  L-Methionine	assists in the breakdown of fats, prevents brittle hair, beneficial for allergic chemical sensitivities and osteoporosis
  L-Phenylalanine	can elevate mood, decrease pain and aid in memory and learning
  L-Tryptophan	necessary for production of vitamin B3, helps combat depression, insomnia and stabilize moods, helps control hyperactivity in children
  L-Valine	used in combination with Leucine and Isoleucine to improve muscle metabolism, tissue repair and nitrogen balance

Vitamins and Minerals

Our vitamin/mineral profile contained in each serving of Absorb Plus is one of the most extensive available and specifically formulated for maximum tolerance and absorption by those with stomach and bowel sensitivities. For example, certain vitamins or minerals can result in diarrhea and these have been purposely kept at low levels in the formula so as not to cause or exacerbate this problem. Absorb Plus is also an iron-free formula. Because, for people who are not anemic, iron can be a potent free radical and promote intestinal infection, or trigger intestinal bleeding.

We've also included key vitamins and minerals that are particularly needed by people with IBD and IBS. For example, Absorb Plus contains the entire B-Complex (including B12) in each serving. B-Complex vitamins are especially helpful for people with gastrointestinal problems as they are key players in the synthesis and repair of the mucosal lining and intestinal wall. B vitamins are also well-known for their ability to reduce muscle spasms, aid in red blood cell production, assist in the digestion and metabolism of fat, protein and carbohydrates and they also support the adrenal gland, thereby increasing the body’s resistance to stress and infection. Another key vitamin involved in the mucosal lining of the intestine is Vitamin A and Absorb Plus contains good levels of both Vitamin A and Beta Carotene per serving.

Most people requiring an elemental food supplement like Absorb Plus are probably mildly to severely deficient in numerous vitamins and minerals. What most people don't know is that vitamins and minerals are so integral to the proper functioning of our bodies that deficiencies can often be mistaken for a disorder or disease. The EFAs (Essential Fatty Acids) contained in cold-pressed oils and many amino acids also require sufficient levels of various vitamins and minerals in order to be absorbed and utilised properly.

In addition, most people who are ill also have a hyperacidic pH level and one of the best ways to correct hyperacidity is by mineral supplementation. Absorb Plus contains an extensive, full-spectrum array of alkalizing (reduce acidity in the body) major and trace minerals as well. Usually, multi-vitamins only contain the major, common minerals (like calcium, magnesium, potassium, etc.) and you have to purchase a separate formula to get a supply of trace minerals (vanadium, chromium, molybdenum, copper, manganese, etc.) Absorb Plus contains both the major and trace minerals together in one formula. Most of our vitamins and minerals are also natural-source extractions. This means they are extracted from the food where they naturally occur, rather than being chemically synthesized in a lab.

Absorb Plus is specially formulated so as not to exceed safe levels for each vitamin or mineral for up to 12 servings per day. If you're using Absorb Plus less than twice a day, you may wish to continue taking your regular multi-vitamin/mineral as well. You can see that Absorb Plus' commitment to superior quality is also evident in our vitamin and mineral profile. Each vitamin and mineral is present in its most easily absorbable form. Also, because you're consuming these vitamins/minerals in liquid form, their absorption is greatly enhanced; there are no shellacked, hard casings or gelcaps to dissolve prior to absorption.

Click here to view Vitamins/Minerals chart

In this video, I show you how easy it is to mix and use Absorb Plus – even when you're traveling!

How To Mix & Use - Video

All About Elemental Diets - Teleseminar

To find out whether an elemental diet is right for you and what you can expect if you go on one, read the transcript for this teleseminar I did, called All About Elemental Diets. I answer dozens of people's questions and also outline what you can expect and what's possible with an elemental diet – I even tell you who should not go on an elemental diet!