Guest guest Posted March 10, 2005 Report Share Posted March 10, 2005 PRODUCT # FSAA AANGAMIK DMG INGREDIENTS: 125mg pure sub-lingual N,N-Dimethylglycine AANGAMIK DMG is the only pure DMG product which contains no fillers or binders and is therefore pure and non-allergenic. BENEFITS: Enhances biologically important cycles in the body Improves the nutritional and environmental value of the cell Prevents lactic acid build up, improves recovery time after exercise Increases oxygenation Immune strengthening APPLICATION: Two a day, or as recommended by your health care practitioner. AANGAMIK can be swallowed, chewed or taken sublingually for enhanced absorption. It's naturally pleasant tasting. For best results, let melt under tongue on an empty stomach. DMG is hypoallergenic and nonmutagenic. Thousands of clinicians and doctors have been recommending DMG for 20 years without adverse or negative side effects. DMG will not affect any nutritional program you may now be on. PRECAUTIONS and CONTRAINDICATIONS: N,N-Dimethylglycine is a completely safe, non-toxic food substance. Since it is a water soluble nutrient, DMG does not build up in the body. ADDITIONAL COMMENTS: DMG can be used by all health-aware individuals and sports participants. Care-givers of autistic people should consult their health care practitioner regarding the therapeutic uses of DMG. Certain studies have shown that DMG is beneficial for autistism and those afflicted with obsessive/compulsive behavioral disorders. Dimethylglycine (DMG) is a nutrient which is found in the cells of all plants and animals. Biochemists classify DMG as an Intermediary Metabolite, but in simpler terms, it may also be called a food. The human body produces the amino acid derivative DMG only in very small amounts. Scientific research has shown that supplementing the diet with higher levels of DMG greatly improves the nutritional environment of the cell. AANGAMIK DMG was the first DMG product produced in America and as such has set the standard in the health industry for quality and purity of formulation. Dimethylglycine has been found effective in enhancing the body's immune system. FoodScience Laboratories has been issued five U.S. Patents for N,N-Dimethylglycine's value and use in improving both humoral and cellular mediated immunity and for benefiting arthritis. Although the human body produces DMG, research has shown that supplementing the diet with N,N-Dimethylglycine enhances a number of biologically important cycles in the body while improving the nutritional environment of the cell. It also helps your muscles utilize nutrients to create energy. Sports participants and their coaches, nutritionally oriented doctors and health-conscious individuals have been using AANGAMIK DMG for over 20 years. ARE ALL DMG SUPPLEMENTS THE SAME? NO, they are not. N,N-Dimethylglycine is a difficult nutrient to produce in high quality supplement form. The purest, most effective N,N-Dimethyl- glycine product currently available is AANGAMIK DMG from Food Science Laboratories. FoodScience's AANGAMIK DMG was the first DMG product produced in America and as such has set the standard in the health food industry for quality and purity of formulation. AANGAMIK DMG is the only pure DMG product produced with no fillers or binders. TECHNICAL BULLETIN N, N-Dimethylglycine™ (DMG) The Metabolic Enhancer that boosts the immune system, enhances performance and improves cardiovascular function. Presented by: V. Kendall, Ph.D. Vice-President of Research & Development The benefits of supplemental DMG are many: Reduces Physical and Environmental Stress Improves Oxygen Utilization Enhances Liver Function Aids Cardiovascular Functions Optimizes Athletic Performance Improves the Immune Response Helps Improve Neurological Function Possesses Anti-Inflammatory Properties Enhances Anti-Viral, Anti-Bacterial and Anti-Tumor Defenses Introduction N, N-Dimethylglycine (DMG) is a versatile nutrient, accessory food factor and intermediary metabolite that can enable a person or animal to function at more optimum mental and physical level and aid the body in overcoming a number of adverse health conditions. DMG is an intricate part of human metabolism and has been used in the health field as a nutritional supplement for over 25 years. As a nutritional supplement, Dimethylglycine can improve physical and mental performance by helping the body adapt to the various forms of stress. Athletes have been using DMG for years to improve stamina, reduce muscle cramping and enhance recovery from intense workouts. University research and clinical studies demonstrates that DMG may be beneficial in helping the body overcome a number of health problems including cardiovascular disorders, inflammation, tumors, chronic fatigue syndrome and autism. DMG may even retard the aging process because of its ability to reduce metabolic stress caused by poor oxygen availability (hypoxia), free radical damage and a weakened immune system. DMG can enhance the healing process for most health disorders as well as promote greater vitality, energy and performance. Background Dimethylglycine was widely studied in the Soviet Union in the `60's as part of the Russian formula known as Calcium Pangamate. Their studies indicated that DMG was beneficial to athletic performance, cardiovascular function, detoxification, skin problems and neurological function. In one study, DMG was shown to protect the immune function of guinea pigs exposed to intense radiation. DMG was found to aid cardiovascular function by reducing angina, high lipid and cholesterol levels, and high blood pressure as well as improve circulation to the extremities of the body. The Soviet research on their DMG based formula demonstrated three basic properties: Lipotropic effect (to protect the liver from fat infiltration) Stimulation of oxygen utilization Detoxifying capacity Later work done in the United States began to confirm many of the Russian studies. One of the first areas where DMG was found to give significant improvement was in horse racing. Veterinarians and trainers found that DMG could reduce lactic acid buildup and improve racing times in equine events. Improved recovery times from intensive training and racing were also noted. The clinical and nutritional benefits of DMG were also quickly recognized, especially in the areas of cardiovascular disease and weakened immunity associated with most degenerative conditions. In several studies, DMG was found to have anti-seizure activity (epilepsy), to provide major improvement in autism and to reduce toxicity to several potent pathogens. Details of this work will be covered later. Areas of Possible DMG Application Laboratory research has indicated that Dimethylglycine can be used as a nutritional adjunct in a number of health related areas including: Cardiovascular Problems Glucose Metabolism Inflammatory Conditions and Autoimmune Disorders Allergies Chronic Fatigue Tumors Liver Disorders Alcoholism and Drug Addiction Respiratory Problems Immune Response Deficiencies Infections Neurological Disorders Autism Sports Practice In their book, Prescription for Nutritional Healing, Dr. Balch and Phyllis Balch, C.N.C., recommend DMG for over 35 different ailments. What is Dimethylglycine? N, N-Dimethylglycine is an amino acid, specifically the dimethylated derivative of Glycine: DMG is a normal, physiologically active nutrient found in low levels in such foods as cereal grains, beans and liver. DMG is also produced in the body from Choline and Betaine as a cellular intermediate. The liver rapidly converts DMG into other useful metabolites via a process known as oxidative dimethylation. By this process, a methyl group of DMG can be made available for transmethylation reactions, a pathway which is essential to the production of many vital products of the cell. Dr. J.W. Meduski of the University of Southern California has called DMG a " metabolic enhancer " because of the many ways DMG can improve cellular metabolism, especially under conditions of distress in the body. DMG and the Transmethylation Process By its ability to give up its methyl groups to help in the production of sulfur-adenosyl-methionine (SAMe), DMG supports transmethylation processes in the body. Transmethylation is a reaction where a methyl group (CH3) is transferred from one molecule to another. It is a biochemical process which is essential to life, health and regeneration of body cells. Vitamins, hormones, neurotransmitters, enzymes, nucleic acids (DNA, RNA) and antibodies depend upon the transfer of methyl groups to complete their synthesis. SAMe is the active transmethylating agent and is involved in over 41 different transmethylation reactions. DMG gives up its methyl groups by a process known as oxidative demethylation. The one carbon units produced from Dimethylglycine can be used to form the essential amino acid Methionine from Homocysteine. This transformation requires folic acid, NAD+, FAD and Vitamin B12. Methionine in turn is used to produce S- Adenosylmethionine (SAMe), the active transmethylating agent in the body. DMG can therefore act as an indirect methyl donor and function as an efficient " methionine pump " by converting excess Homocysteine molecules to Methionine. This process keeps the cells of the body in a high state of transmethylation potential. It also reduces the concentration of Homocysteine in the blood, which tends to build up when there is a low availability of methyl groups. High levels of Homocysteine have been shown to cause arteriosclerosis in experimental animals. Dr. Kilmer McCully, a pathologist, has suggested that Homocysteine is a cause of arteriosclerosis in humans. DMG may play an important role in keeping Homocysteine at a safe level. Besides generating one carbon units, Dimethylglycine generates two carbon molecules such as Glycine, Serine and the ethanolamines, all of which are beneficial to the life of the cell. For example, Glycine functions as an important inhibitory neurotransmitter of the central nervous system and is used to produce phosphocreatine, a high energy phosphate molecule used in muscle tissue and in the tissue of the central nervous system. The metabolic role of DMG as a supplier of both one and two carbon molecules to the cell, as well as its ability to contribute to the formation of S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe) and subsequent transmethylation reactions, may help explain DMG's broad metabolic activity and therapeutic effect on the body. Dosage FoodScience of Vermont's DMG comes as a pure 125 mg sublingual tablet, which is an ideal dose for DMG. By dissolving under the tongue, the DMG can be absorbed directly into the body, bypassing the liver. This gives a faster and more efficient use of the DMG. Depending on the specific area of use, the recommended dosage of DMG can range from 125 mg to over 1000 mg per day. In most cases it is best to take DMG several times throughout the day in order to maintain a more consistent availability to the body. Individuals with heavy work schedules (stress), athletes or people dealing with a major health problem can benefit from higher intakes of DMG. Absorption and Storage Dimethylglycine is very effectively absorbed from the digestive tract, including the oral cavity. Sublingual ingestion of DMG provides effective and rapid absorption, effects of which are frequently evident within 20 minutes after taking the product. The amino acid transfer complex for transferring DMG across the intestinal wall has been identified and is reported. All indications are that DMG is metabolized rapidly by the liver into one and two carbon units and therefore the body does not store appreciable amounts of the nutrient. Safety Studies on Dimethylglycine Dimethylglycine has been found to be an extremely safe food substance as demonstrated by a series of animal studies conducted at the Medical University of Southern California. Meduski has reported that Dimethylglycine Hydrochloride has an LD50 (lethal dose to 50% of the animal population) of 7,400 mg per kg. of animal body weight in the rat. This amount is generally regarded as nontoxic. Dimethylglycine is a water soluble nutrient and the enzyme system in the body effectively converts the substance into metabolites that are either used by the body or are safely excreted from the body. Feeding studies at reasonably high levels have demonstrated DMG's long term safety. A two year feeding study in rats produced no health problems, even when fed at a level 1/10 the LD50 on a daily basis (740 mg/kg of body weight per day). Dimethylglycine is a safe food substance that has been used by thousands of clinicians and doctors for almost three decades without adverse or negative side effects. The Role of N, N-Dimethylglycine in Health Research has shown that DMG is a physiologically active nutrient that: Can significantly improve physical and mental performance. Can improve and stimulate oxygen utilization and thereby reduce hypoxic (low oxygen) states in the body. Can increase resistance to disease and infection by strengthening both arms of the immune system, including antibody, lymphocyte and cytokine production. Aids in detoxification, especially in the liver. Can cause marked improvement in patients with circulatory insufficiency and angina pectoris. May improve glucose metabolism in athletes, diabetics and hypoglycemics. May reduce elevated cholesterol, triglycerides and improve circulation. May lower high blood pressure. Reduces training fatigue and shortens recovery periods after strenuous exercise. Increases physical and mental energy levels by reducing lactic acid build-up during periods of stress. Can retard cataract development in laboratory animals. Can improve mental alertness and brain function. Has lipotropic properties that enhance liver function. Can act as an indirect methyl donor and provide useful building units for the biosynthesis of vitamins, hormones, neurotransmitters, antibodies, nucleic acids and metabolically active molecules like Choline, Creatine and Methionine. Sports Practice and Athletic Use The value of DMG as a nutrient and metabolic enhancer was first observed in the area of athletic performance. DMG has long been used by athletes to improve overall performance and endurance, to enhance oxygen utilization and to improve recovery of muscles after strenuous exercise. It has been shown in a number of athlete and animal studies over the past 20 years that DMG specifically improves stamina and cardiovascular function in the body. Pipes has reported in the Physicians and Sports Medicine Journal that Dimethylglycine significantly improved performance in a group of track and field athletes. The DMG group showed an increase of 27.5% in VO2 Max and of 23.6% in time to exhaustion as compared to the placebo group. DMG's apparent ergogenic (energy enhancing) effects could be due to a number of factors, including better oxygen utilization and cellular respiration, reduced lactic acid build-up, and enhanced carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. A 1982 study by Levine and Myhre and published in Equine Practice showed DMG's rapid ability to reduce a horse's lactic acid level as compared to controls. The authors reported over a five-fold decrease in lactate level buildup for the test animals as compared to controls. Cator, DVM at the Panhandle Regional Veterinary Clinic, which confirmed the results of the Equine Practice study, did another study. Thoroughbreds were checked for speed and blood lactate levels with and without DMG at 210 heartbeats per minute. The results show greater speed and a lower blood lactate level when DMG was part of the horse's diet. The Effects of N,N-Dimethylglycine on Blood Lactate Levels and Speed in Racing Thoroughbreds --Field work conducted at training track at Panhandle Regional Veterinary Clinic in Spearman, Texas, by R. L. Cator, Jr., DVM --Laboratory work performed by Texas A & M Medical Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Amarillo, Texas by Halliburton, Ph.D. Potter and Moffitt also reported on DMG's lactic acid lowering effect in a study which they did in 1985 at Texas A & M. When horses were supplemented with DMG at the rate of 1.6 mg/kg, there was a significant reduction in blood lactic acid concentration after strenuous exercise on a treadmill. This dosage equates to approximately one serving of 750 mg of DMG for a 1,200-1,400 lb horse. The mechanisms of how DMG improves oxygen utilization and reduces lactic acid accumulation are not clear, but its effectiveness in improving performance and recovery time from strenuous exercise is well established. This is supported by the paper published in Canine Practice by Cannon and Kendall showing that racing greyhounds that were supplemented with DMG had improved racing times and better recovery from the previous day's training or racing. Meduski and co-workers at the University of Southern California conducted experiments with rabbits to monitor the effect of Dimethylglycine on lactic acid production under hypoxic conditions. New Zealand White rabbits were exposed to severe surgical stress, a condition known to increase blood lactate in animals. Those animals that received DMG showed markedly decreased levels of lactic acid in their blood compared to control. Meduski also reported improved oxygen uptake of rats which were on Dimethylglycine supplementation and exposed to low oxygen (8%) environment. The DMG fed rats showed better adaptation to hypoxia than did the controls by actually utilizing more oxygen from the low oxygen environment. A New York City marathon club under the direction of Dr. Null did a six-month study, where they carefully compared the use of DMG in a marathon to a previous race where it was not used. The improvements were impressive. In the second race the runners took 500 mg DMG before the race and then followed by 250 mg for every four miles covered. The marathoners reported much less exhaustion as compared to the previous race. Based upon compiled statistics, better race times were obtained along with improved stamina, muscle and body recovery, and especially the reduction of cramping and fatigue from the 18th to the 26th mile mark in the marathon. The evidence that DMG can enhance the performance of athletes is quite strong. The research, along with actual field evaluation, shows that DMG is beneficial to endurance athletes (runners, team sports) as well as short-timed events (weight lifters, sprinters). Not only will DMG help in overall performance and recovery, but it will also boost the immune defense of the individual athlete and make them less susceptible to infections or other illnesses. Immune Response Enhancement An individual's immune response is a person's defense against foreign substances (antigens, pathogens). Its role is to seek out, identify and destroy those invading substances, which can cause disease or health problems. The immune system is made up of different cell types (B-cells, T-cells, macrophages) immune complexes and molecular products of B and T cells (antibodies from B- cells, cytokines from T-cells). Macrophages are large scavenger lymphocytes (white blood cells), which engulf and kill the invader. Antibodies are proteins which react with specific germs and alert T- cells (lymphocytes) to identify and attack the foreign substance. Together these cells and molecular products work to destroy and eliminate cancer cells, bacteria and viruses which are disease causing. Factors that weaken the immune system and decrease the immune response include age, metabolic or genetic disorders, microbial infestations, stress, nutritional deficiencies, many drugs and most degenerative diseases. The stronger the immune system, the greater the immune response will be against disease causing agents. This results in fewer symptoms of infection and greater probability of avoiding sickness. A strong immune system is an important part of staying healthy, avoiding serious illness and fighting off exposure to pathogens that may occur. Dimethylglycine (DMG) is a nutritional factor that can strengthen a person's immune system and bring about a more effective response against any antigen (foreign substance). Dr. Graber and his research team first discovered this in 1978 at the Medical University of South Carolina. The results of this research, which were published in 1981 in the Journal of Infectious Diseases, centered on three areas: DMG invoked a humoral or antibody response in rabbits given typhoid vaccine demonstrating B-cell activity. DMG increased lymphocyte population in humans using a Lymphocyte Blast Transformation test on blood samples of 75 individuals, including those with diabetes and sickle cell anemia. A double-blind study involving 20 human subjects showed DMG to be effective in stimulating both a humoral (antibody) as well as a cellular-mediated immune response when pneumovax vaccine was administered as a challenge. A 4.5-fold increase in antibody titer was seen in the test group as compared to the control group. The Leukocyte Inhibition Factor (LIF) increased significantly in those individuals given DMG. In summary, the research showed that DMG significantly stimulates B- cells to produce higher antibody responses (humoral branch) and potentiates a greater activity of T-cells and macrophages (cellular immunity branch). DMG therefore enhances both arms of the immune response. In a test-tube evaluation, DMG was shown to return below par lymphocyte activity to near normal in patients with diabetes or sickle cell anemia. Patients with these diseases suffer more infections than do healthy people. As a result of this work FoodScience Corporation was granted a patent on DMG and its role in potentiating the immune response (U.S. Patent #4, 631,198) in 1983. Research completed in the latter part of 1986 at Clemson University confirmed the earlier work done at the Medical University of South Carolina that DMG does indeed potentiate both arms of the immune response system. Rabbits given either a typhoid or influence antigen produced a 3-5-fold increase in antibody levels as compared to control rabbits. T-cell proliferation was also seen in the DMG fed animals which showed from 3 to 9 times greater levels of T-cells as compared to controls. The researchers at Clemson also found that DMG was effective in increasing interferon production in rabbits. A 2-fold increase in interferon production was seen in those animals receiving DMG. Interferon is a cytokine, a product of T-cells, which can act as an antiviral and anti-tumor agent. In a study done by the U.S. Army by Dr. Ivin at the Medical Institute of Infectious Diseases at Ft. Detrick, land evaluated the effects of DMG with guinea pigs given an anthrax vaccine. No significant increase in antibody titers were seen in the DMG fed animals as compared to the vaccinated controls. However, when the animals were subsequently challenged with a potentially lethal dose of virulent anthrax bacilli, 50% of the control animals given the vaccine died. Among the vaccinated animals given the vaccine and DMG, not one of the DMG fed animals died. These remarkable findings seem to indicate that although no increase in antibody titers were seen in the DMG fed animals as compared to the controls, the DMG fed animals demonstrated an enhanced immunity which must have been due to an enhanced cellular response (T-cells, B-cells). The use of DMG in humans and animals offers a safe oral immune enhancing nutrient, which can offer increased resistance to and recovery from infectious diseases. Upper respiratory problems respond well to DMG supplementation. These studies indicate that people who use DMG may have greater protection from bacterial and viral infections (flu, colds). This is very important to the geriatric population who may not even respond to a flu shot because the immune system is unable to increase antibody production as in younger people. Anyone with a degenerative condition has a compromised immune system and would benefit from supplemental DMG. Cardiovascular System Dimethylglycine supplementation has been found very beneficial for circulation and cardiovascular problems. DMG enhances oxygen delivery to the heart and improves several characteristics of the blood. According to a symposium conducted in Moscow in 1964 (USSR Academy of Sciences and the Institute of Biological and Medical Chemistry), the principal field of DMG application in trials conducted at over 20 clinics was in the treatment of cardiovascular disorders. The DMG formula was marketed as Calcium Pangamate, but careful assessment of the patent and scientific literature has demonstrated that Dimethylglycine was the active ingredient in the orally administered product. The studies reported major improvements in the areas of arteriosclerosis, artherosclerosis, coronary circulation and myocardial function, angina pectoris and high blood pressure upon administration of DMG. Good results were obtained on daily doses of Dimethylglycine from 50 mg to 90 mg. The principal mode of action to which the improvements were ascribed centered on DMG's ability to decrease hypoxia (low oxygen availability) to the various tissues, to improve various oxidative processes in the body, and to normalize lipid and carbohydrate metabolism. A four-year clinical evaluation of Dimethylglycine by Pries, M.D. of Palmdale, CA, has confirmed the Soviet findings. In trials involving administration of DMG to over 400 cardiovascular patients over a four-year period, Dr. Pries reported major improvements in the following areas: Increased feeling of well-being. Improvement in circulatory insufficiency. Decrease in elevated cholesterol and triglycerides. Reduction in angina pain. Fewer arrhythmias. Decrease of high blood pressure. Improvement in heart response to stress tests. Most of the patients in the study had cholesterol levels of greater than 250+ mg/dl. After taking 250 mg of DMG for 3 months, most showed a drop in blood cholesterol to approximately 200 mg/dl. A major drop was seen for the triglycerides as well. The patients underwent standard diagnostic testing including blood chemistries, electrocardiograms, and Doplar blood vascular readings . Dr. Pries concluded that 125 mg of DMG, taken twice daily, was effective in producing major positive responses in his cardiovascular patients. Carbohydrate Metabolism There is good evidence that DMG may enhance carbohydrate metabolism. There have been many individual reports from physicians who have attested to DMG's value in lowering blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. Problems resulting from impaired circulation, including gangrene, pain in the lower extremities, wounds and ulcers on the legs and feet, all responded well to DMG supplementation. To evaluate Dimethylglycine's possible metabolic effect on Diabetes Mellitus, an animal study was conducted on a diabetic strain of mice at the University of Bridgeport. The strain of biologically engineered diabetic mice chosen for the study exhibited characteristics similar to diabetes in man: hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), obesity, glycosinea (sugar in the urine) and morphological changes in the pancreas. In two such experiments using controls, the experimental mice were given a solution of 740 mg of DMG per kg. of body weight, whereas the control group received just water. Diet and other environmental factors were kept the same. After statistical analysis, it was shown that the DMG fed group had significantly lower blood glucose concentrations and lower weight gains (20-25% decrease) as compared to the control group. This animal study confirms DMG's role in improving glucose metabolism. DMG appears to stimulate tissue oxygen consumption and improve oxidation at the cellular level. It is known that DMG will reduce lactic acid build-up under conditions of physical stress, also indicating that DMG does promote cellular respiration. This may explain Dimethylglycine's beneficial effects on diabetic patients. Dr. Mason's book, The Methyl Approach to Hypoglycemia discusses the effects of stress and lactic acid on hypoglycemia, and underlines the need for available methyl groups (CH3) to support liver, adrenal and pancreas functions. DMG acts as a source of methyl groups via methionine synthesis. Stanley and Schlenk have reported that all adrenal hormones are dependent on Methylation for their synthesis. A shortage of methyl transfer activity can lead to poor hormone production and impaired glucose metabolism. Lactic aid levels are also known to be higher in hypoglycemic patients due to poor cellular respiration. Dimethylglycine has proven beneficial for hypoglycemics because it assists in reducing elevated lactic acid levels and supplies a rich source of methyl groups for transmethylation reactions in the body. Detoxification and Liver Support Dimethylglycine is beneficial in support of liver metabolism and detoxification. By improving oxygen utilization, DMG can help eliminate hypoxia to the tissues and aid in the elimination of toxins from the blood stream. Dr. Carl Pfieffer of the Bio-Brain Center in Princeton, NJ reported success in using DMG to reduce elevated histamine levels in certain patients. This is probably achieved by increasing the transmethylation pathway and making more methyl groups available for detoxification of neuro toxic amines. Patients undergoing either chemical or drug detoxification would benefit from DMG supplementation (500 to 1000 mg) to improve cellular metabolism for increased energy levels and improved detoxification. Chelation Therapy Many physicians who utilize Chelation Therapy with their patients recognize the value of DMG for improving oxygen uptake and circulation to the extremities of the body. During the chelation process, DMG supplementation can enhance cellular efficiency by stimulating the liver and carbohydrate metabolism. Patients receive a boost in their sense of well being and energy levels which may relate to improved blood glucose levels. Individuals undergoing chelation, either for atherosclerosis, alcoholism, diabetes or sexual dysfunction would benefit from supplementation of 250 to 500 mg of DMG daily. Cataract Prevention A study was done at the Pacific University College of Optometry to evaluate any effect that DMG might have on the Posterior Subcapsulation Cataract Progression in rats. DMG was applied daily to the eyes of 10 rats and cataract progression was monitored at weekly intervals for an eight-week period and compared to untreated controls. Lens opacities were graded according to apparent size, location and density. After eight weeks statistical comparison showed that in the rats receiving DMG, cataract development was found to be significantly slower than in those rats receiving saline solution. The mechanism of how DMG retards cataract progression may be associated with its ability to increase oxygen uptake by hypoxic tissues. The study suggests the potential use for Dimethylglycine in the prevention of cataracts either as eye drops or in supplemental oral administration. Neurological Support A lack or imbalance of neurotransmitters can cause a whole series of brain and nerve dysfunctions. Because Dimethylglycine can act as a precursor to a number of amino alcohols and acids which aid brain function, including Glycine and Dimethylethanolamine, its value to the body's neurological system should not be overlooked. Dr. Freed of Saint Hospital in Washington D.C. confirmed in several patients the ability of DMG to prevent or reduce epileptic seizures. Veterinarians have reported good success in preventing seizures in dogs and cats using DMG. In another study, Ward, et al, found that DMG significantly reduced mortality associated with penicillin-induced seizures in rats. Only one rat died in the DMG-treated group, whereas 18 died in the control group. Drs. Roach and Carlin of the Bowman Gray School of Medicine reported in the New England Journal of Medicine (October, 1982) a case history where DMG was effective in controlling epileptic seizures in a 22 year old man who had a long history of mental retardation and mixed complex, partial and gran mal seizures. Before treatment the patient was experiencing 16 to 18 generalized seizures per week, even when on therapeutic levels of phenobarbitol and carbamazepine. After taking 90 mg of DMG twice daily for one week, the number of seizures was reduced to three per week. Two attempts to eliminate DMG supplementation resulted in a dramatic increase in seizure frequency for the individual. It may be that DMG is able to cross the blood brain barrier better than Glycine, thereby acting as a source of the Glycine neurotransmitter in the brain. Several other explanations are also possible. The monitored improvement on other epileptic patients has not been as dramatic as the case cited, but several other instances of DMG aiding in neurological and seizure-type patients have been report by Gasion and . Individuals who are prone to panic attacks and increased anxiety tend to have increased lactic acid levels which can affect brain chemistry. By preventing the buildup of lactic acid levels in the blood, DMG may be effective in reducing panic attacks and normalizing the stress response in these individuals. B-16 Melanoma Studies: Work done by Dr. Lawson at Clemson University strongly suggests that DMG may have anti-tumor properties as a result of DMG's ability to enhance the immune response. This was shown in a mouse study using a B-16 melanoma model. Melanoma is a highly metastatic form of skin cancer that spreads easily to other organs. Mice receiving DMG had a significantly higher antibody count against the B-16 melanoma antigen and the growth of their tumors was significantly retarded as compared to the controls. The DMG mice lived longer than the controls and had fewer palpable tumors. One of the more important findings, however, was that DMG inhibited or prevented the primary tumors from spreading (metastasis) to vital organs. Histological examination of the control and test mice showed that metastasis to vital organs occurred only in the B-16 control group that did not receive DMG. At the end of the study, all of the control mice had died but of those mice receiving DMG, 71% were still surviving. DMG also exerted a strong anti-tumor effect against melanoma in a CAM (chlorioallantoic membrane) chick embryos assay. In this assay, DMG reduced tumor growth by 60% as compared to controls. It is now known that DMG increases the production of Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-a) which enhances the ability of the body to fight against cancer. As a result of this work a U.S. patent was granted to FoodScience Corporation for DMG in treating melanoma. These studies indicate that DMG may give important nutritional support to the immune system against some forms of cancer. FoodScience Corporation is currently funding studies in this area. Autism There is a growing body of evidence that DMG is beneficial for individuals with autism. Autism is a biological brain disorder of unknown causes that results in a wide range of puzzling and disturbing social and personal behavior patterns. Two studies have demonstrated that DMG can modify and improve the behavior, social interaction, verbal communication and disturbing activities of autistic children. Significant improvements were seen. The first study was conducted in 1990, by Dr. Lee Dae Kun, Director of the Pusan (Korea) Research Center on Child Problems. In this study, 39 autistic children, ages three to seven were given DMG from 125 mg to 375 mg per day, depending on weight, for a three-month open trial period. Resulting Benefits of Dr. Kun's Study AUTISM & DMG 1 Several children had difficulty sleeping and were more active during the first few weeks, but this situation improved as the study progressed. The improvement in the children was especially noted by the parents. A second study was completed in 1997 in Taiwan by Dr. Jung of the Taipei Springtide Foundation. Unlike the first study, done in Korea, this was a double-blind placebo controlled study involving 84 autistic children who were divided into a DMG TEST GROUP (46) and a PLACEBO GROUP (38). The DMG TEST GROUP showed statistically significant improvement on all five ABC scales used to evaluate effectiveness: Irritability, Lethargy, Stereotypy, Hyperactivity and Inappropriate Speech. The PLACEBO GROUP showed improvement only on the lethargy scale. These results confirm the hundreds of communications that the Autism Research Institute, in San Diego, CA, under the direction of Dr. Bernard Rimland, have received from excited parents who have seen remarkable changes in their autistic children after using DMG. Areas where parents noted improvement include: Better Verbal Communication Better Eye Contact Improved Loving Attitude Better Social Interaction There are a number of possible explanations as to why the use of DMG has resulted in such remarkable improvement. These include better oxygen utilization, reduction of lactic acid formation and a possible decrease in potential seizure activity. Perhaps the most relevant research on DMG relative to autism may be in the immunilogical area. Recent publications have shown that certain components of the immune system may be abnormal in people with autism. These include decreased number of helper T-cells and B- cells, reduced natural killer cell activity, inhibition of macrophage activity and increased interferon levels. DMG's ability to modulate the immune system may work to correct a basic defect in the immune system of autistic children that is responsible for the symptoms being displayed. Further studies in this area are needed to further elucidate the specific role DMG may play in reversing autism. Inflammation and Autoimmune Conditions Dimethylglycine (DMG) has been found to have an anti-inflammatory property. This effect was found in a rat study done at Clemson University by Dr. Lawson. DMG was found to prevent and reduce an inflammatory response in a Rheumatoid Collagen II induced model used in the rat. Under these conditions, 78% of the test rats given DMG did not develop the characteristic inflammation and swelling as seen in the control animals. This study shows that DMG, probably through modulation of the immune system, can be helpful in treating degenerative joint problems and rheumatoid arthritis where inflammation is a major symptom. DMG has been used successfully to aid in the reduction of pain, inflammation and joint tenderness in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. Recommended program calls for using 250-375 mg of DMG taken 3 to 4 times daily. The effectiveness of DMG as an anti-inflammatory nutrient works even better when combined with the Green Lipped Mussel (Perna Canaliculus). An excellent program for both rheumatoid and Osteo-arthritis would be (6) 500 mg capsules of Perna and from 570-1,000 mg of DMG daily, taken in divided doses. Lupus Study Systemic Lupus Erythematosis (SLE) or Lupus is considered to be the prototypic systemic autoimmune disease. Symptoms for the disease include skin rash, severe inflammation, joint pain and progressive kidney failure. The common denominator among Lupus patients is increased immunoglobulin IgG autoantibody to DNA. At present, there is no really effective treatment method to treat this autoimmune disease. An accepted mouse model to follow the progression of the disease is the MRI-lpr mouse model. A study was done to determine the effects of Perna (Green Lipped Mussel), Dimethylglycine (DMG) and the combination of Perna and DMG together, upon the progression of Lupus in these mice, over a 12-week period. Areas evaluated included lymphocytic markers: CD4 (helper T-cells), CD8+ (Cytotoxic T-cells), CD19, Cytokines (IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, Tumor Nucrosis Factor – alpha) and antinuclear antibodies to both single and double standard DNA. Although this is highly technical, it is important to understand the basic tests that were done. The results of the experiment were totally unexpected in that DMG and Perna used by themselves made no significant differences compared to the control group. However, when DMG and Perna were used together, amazing results were achieved, including: Significant reduction of the Cytotoxic T-cells (CD8+) Significant reduction of the inflammatory Cytokines IL-6 and IL-10. The role of IL-10 in the induction of autoantibodies in human SLE has been recently suggested. Increased levels of Tumor Nucrosis Factor alpha (TNF-alpha). Lupus mice have exceptionally low levels of TNF-alpha and replacement therapy with TNF-alpha significantly delays the development of kidney damage. Significant decreases in nuclear autoantibodies to both single and double stranded autoantibodies. The decrease in lower serum levels of IL-10 could be associated with this observation. This experiment provided substantial evidence as to the synergistic combination of Perna and DMG as a possible treatment protocol for SLE. Further studies are now underway to substantiate whether this combination would also be effective in treating human SLE (Lupus). Initial results in this area have been very promising. A U.S. Patent is now pending, based upon this remarkable discovery. U.S. Patents Due to the extensive research done on DMG over the past twenty years, (5) U.S. Patents have been issued to FoodScience Corporation for the discoveries surrounding Dimethylglycine: US PATENT 4,631,189 " N, N-Dimethylglycine and Use in Immune Response " US PATENT 4,994,492 " Treatment of Melanoma Using N, N- Dimethylglycine " US PATENT 5,026,728 " Treatment of Arthritis Using N, N- Dimethylglycine " US PATENT 5,118,618 " Dimethylglycine Enhancement of Antibody Production " US PATENT 4,968,839 " Process for the Preparation of N, N- Dimethylglycine (DMG) " Conclusion Dimethylglycine (DMG) is a versatile health potentiating and healing nutrient that can be used to maintain good health, enhance performance and productivity as well as aid the body in the healing and restoration process. This Technical Bulletin has only touched the surface of the many areas where DMG has been found to be beneficial to the immune response, detoxification, mental and physical performance, enhancement to cellular metabolism and to many other specific areas as mentioned in this article. When DMG is combined with other beneficial nutritional and therapeutic food factors, such as Perna (Green Lipped Mussel) additional synergistic effects may result. DMG can be safely combined with any nutritional or therapeutic product without negative side effects. Dimethylglycine is a time-tested, scientifically proven and verifiable nutritional supplement that brings about greater vitality, good health and cellular regeneration. Continued research with this marvelous nutrient will reveal even more about how DMG can be used to combat the stress and the health problems that affect most people. Dimethylglycine is available in a 125 mg sublingual tablet in Health Food Stores under the brand name, FoodScience Aangamik™ DMG. Alphabetical Listing of References , A. " DMG Proving to be a Valuable Aid in Competition, " Horse World, p. 20 Oct, 1982 Gannon, J. and Kendall, R., " A Clinical Evaluation of N, N- Dimethylglycine (DMG) and Diisopropylammonium Dichloroacetate (DIPA) on the Performance of Racing Greyhouds, Canine Practice, 9. 7 Nov- Dec, 1982 Graber, G., Goust. J., Glassman, A., Kendall, R., and Loadholt, C., " Immunomodulating Properties of Dimethylglycine in Humans " J Inf Disease, 143, 101, 1981 Livine, S., Myhre, G., , G., Burns, J. " Effect of a Nutritional Supplement Containing N, N-Dimethylglycine (DMG) on the Racing Standardbred, Equine Practice, 4: March, 1982 MacKenzie, C., and Frisell, W., " Metabolism of Dimethylglycine by Liver Mitochondria, " J Biol Chem., 232, 417, 1958 Meduski, J., Hyman, S., Kilz, R., Kim, K., Thein, P. And Yochimoto, T., 1980 Pacific Slope Biochemical Conference. Abst. July 7-9, 1980, U. Of California, San Diego Roach, E., and Carlin, L., " N, N-Dimethylglycine for Epilepsy, " New England Journal of Medicine, 307, 1081, 1982 Watanabe A., Treatment of chronic hepatitis using whey protein (non- heated). Presented at 16th Intl. Congress on Nutrition, Montreal, 1997 Reap, E. and Lawson, J. " Stimulation of the Immune Response by Dimethylglycine, a non-toxic metabolite " J. Laboratory and Clinical Medicine, 115, 481 (1990) Wang, C. and Lawson J. " The Effects on the Enhancement of Monoclonal Antibody Production, " Annual Meeting of the American Soc. Of Microbiology, Oct. 1988. Reap, E. and Lawson, J. " The Effects of Dimethylglycine on B-16 Melanoma in Mice " , Annual Meeting of the American Soc. Of Microbiology., Oct. 1988 , W., " Lactic Acid and DMG " , The Quarter Racing Journal, June 46, 1988. Sellnow, L., " DMG, Properties and Properties " The Blood Horse 3855, June 1987. Mani, S., Whitesides J. and Lawson J. " Role of Dimethylglycine in Melanoma Inhibition – Abstract from Nutrition and Cancer Prevention: American Institute for Cancer Research " , Sept. 1999. , M. " Some Nutri-Clinical Applications of N, N- Dimethylglycine " Townsend Letter for Doctors, June 1988. Return to Supplements page *This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. You should always consult with your healthcare professional before starting any supplementation program. Please view our full legal disclaimer for more information. Organix-South, Inc. brings you Organix's Natural Health. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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