Studies show that fiber can actually block the synthesis of cholesterol in the body as well as prevent the re-absorption of bile acids from the small intestine. There is also evidence to suggest that soluble fibers may help slow the absorption of glucose in the gastrointestinal system. Bios Life 2 is a special fiber complex of guar gum, locust bean gum, pectin, oat fiber, and gum acacia.

By consuming a diet that's low in saturated fat and cholesterol and high in fruits and vegetables along with Bios Life 2 a good source of dietary fiber-you may lower your blood cholesterol and reduce your risk of heart disease. Bios Life 2 features a proprietary matrix of fibers under patent Nos. 4,883,788 and 4,824,672 for the "Method and Composition for Reducing Serum Cholesterol."

Another important ingredient in Bios Life 2 is ChromeMate, a unique form of the essential nutrient chromium. It contains oxygen-coordinated, niacin-bound chromium (polynicotinate), which is a highly bio-available form of this nutrient.

In addition, Bios Life 2 can help curb your appetite by giving you a pleasant, full feeling when consumed before meals. Bios Life 2 is a natural way to control your appetite while nourishing your body with important nutrients needed for multiple systems. Bios Life 2 also contains antioxidant vitamins C and E, which have been proven to protect cells from free radical damage. It also supplies key nutrients such as beta-carotene, calcium, zinc, and a complex of B vitamins that promote the body's overall health and well-being.

RESEARCH BRIEF

Fiber encompasses an array of substances indigestible by the human intestine, whereas proteins, fats and carbohydrates are almost entirely absorbed in the small intestine. Dietary fiber consists of insoluble and soluble components.

Insoluble fiber is found in fruits and vegetables. It forms the tough, chewy texture of foods like wheat kernels, nuts and popcorn and is found mainly in the cell walls in the form of strands that give support to plant tissue.

Soluble fibers are found in grains and legumes and give the mushy texture to certain cereals. Soluble fibers can draw water to themselves (hydrophilic) and form jelly-like masses that act partially as solids and are readily fermented by intestinal bacteria. Soluble fibers help reduce bowel transit time and have a lubricating effect on the intestine.

Soluble fibers may help reduce cholesterol levels by preventing the reabsorption of bile acids from the small intestine. To replace the lost bile acids, cholesterol is drawn from the body, thereby reducing its cholesterol supply. Second, the fermentation process in the intestine produces short-chain fatty acids that block the synthesis of cholesterol.

FAQs

Q. What kind of chromium is in Bios Life 2?
A. ChromeMate, a patented, highly bio-available form of niacin-bound chromium (chromium polynicotinate), is found in Bios Life 2. Chromium is an essential trace mineral required for normal protein, fat, and carbohydrate metabolism. ChromeMate contains less than 2 milligrams of niacin and will not cause skin flushing or other side effects associated with high levels of niacin.

Q. We've been hearing a great deal about the benefits of barley fiber, an ingredient in Bios Life 2, and the beta glucans it contains. What are beta glucans and what are their benefits?
A. Beta glucans are the soluble dietary fiber component of barley and oat bran. They have received much attention from the media due to scientific reports identifying them as the agent in barley and oat bran that is capable of reducing serum cholesterol and stimulating the immune system.

Q. Will I experience any side effects with the introduction of Bios Life2 into my diet?
A. The addition of fiber supplementation to a diet currently low in fiber may cause temporary diarrhea or constipation. If diarrhea occurs, cut back on the amount of Bios Life 2 you are currently taking and reintroduce it gradually into your diet using one-half packet or 1.5 teaspoons per serving. Because fiber draws water to it (hydrophilic), constipation may occur. If this occurs, increase your water consumption and cut back on your amount of Bios Life 2. Then, reintroduce larger amounts gradually into your diet. Fiber needs water to work and a normal diet should contain eight or more glasses of water a day.

Q. What does the U symbol stand for on the Bios Life 2 Natural label?
A. The coveted U symbol on the Bios Life 2 Natural label indicates that the product is certified by the Orthodox Union of Rabbis. This symbol assures you that Bios Life 2 Natural meets the stringent criteria to be certified as a kosher product.

NOTE: It is recommended that any medications be taken at least one hour before or four hours after consuming Bios Life 2 to avoid impeding absorption. Taking this product without adequate fluids can result in complications.

REFERENCES

Haack VS, Chesters JG, Vollendorf NW, Story JA, Marlett JA; Increasing amounts of dietary fiber provided by foods normalizes physiologic response of the large bowel without altering calcium balance or fecal steroid excretion, Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 53706, USA, Am. J. Clin. Nutr. 1998 Sept., 68:3, 615-22

Djousse L, Ellison RC, Zhang Y, Arnett DK, Sholinsky P, Borecki I; Relation between dietary fiber consumption and fibrinogen and plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1: The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute Family Heart Study, Evans Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine 02118, USA. 1djousse@bu.edu, Am. J. Clin. Nutr., 1998 Sept., 68:3, 568-75

Preuss HG, Jarrell ST, Scheckenback R, Lieberman S, Anderson RA; Comparative effects of chromium, vanadium and gymnema sylvestre on sugar-induced blood pressure elevations in SHR, Department of Medicine, Georgetown University Medical Center; Washington, D.C.20007, USA, J. Am. Coll. Nutr., 1998 April, 17:2, 116-23