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Bioavailability – The Secret to the Power of VITALITEA

One of the challenges with consuming turmeric is to make it bioavailable. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric has poor bioavailability, meaning that it cannot be absorbed easily into the blood stream. Without this absorption, the turmeric becomes useless. 

In this post, we describe 5 ways that we can increase the bioavailability of curcumin, and make it the superfood that it is. These are as follows:

Rabbitabb VITALITEA is formulated with a unique process that garners the benefits of several methods designed to increase bioavailability. 

  • VITALITEA is made with black pepper as part of the formulation.
  • VITALITEA is cooked with MCT oil, a coconut based fat
  • VITALITEA is cooked through a low heat extrusion process, and then a high heat boil
  • VITALITEA is made with cold pressed turmeric and ginger root.

All these make VITALITEA more bioavailable than consuming turmeric in other ways.

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Recovering from Injury

Turmeric

Several weeks ago I had an accident at home and sustained a direct impact on my hip as I fell on my bum. I didn’t break my hip, which would have been devastating for me, a 60 something year old with an active lifestyle and a couple of dependents. But I did suffer a severe contusion that has made it difficult to run for the past few weeks. But unlike the past, when I would suffer an injury and end up being disabled and unable to carry out daily responsibilities, this time was different. While I could certainly feel a sensation that something had happened, there was absolutely no pain. It has been as though the healing is occurring in the background, and there is no tangible impediment to my daily life. This is big. When we suffer some injury, much of the impact of the injury is typically secondary to the injury itself. Being unable to exercise, or function in a normal way through the day has negative effects on our well being. But by consuming mega doses of turmeric found in VITALITEA, the aftermath of my injury was negligible.

Turmeric is a spice that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound healing properties. Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which is responsible for most of its health benefits. Curcumin can help reduce inflammation, fight free radicals, and promote tissue repair in the body. These effects may be beneficial for people who are recovering from physical injury, such as sprains, strains, bruises, cuts, or burns.

One of the ways that turmeric can help with injury recovery is by alleviating pain and swelling. Studies have shown that turmeric extract can reduce pain and improve function in people with osteoarthritis, a common joint disorder caused by wear and tear. Turmeric may also help prevent or treat infections in wounds, as it has antimicrobial activity against various bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

Another way that turmeric can help with injury recovery is by enhancing muscle performance and recovery. Turmeric can increase blood flow to the muscles, which can improve oxygen delivery and nutrient uptake. Turmeric can also reduce muscle damage and soreness after exercise, which can speed up the healing process and prevent further injury.

Turmeric can be consumed in various forms, such as powder, capsules, tea, or paste. However, it is important to consult a doctor before taking turmeric supplements, as they may interact with some medications or cause side effects in some people. Turmeric can also be applied topically to the injured area, but it may stain the skin or clothing. Therefore, it is advisable to use a bandage or a cloth to cover the wound after applying turmeric.

Turmeric is a natural remedy that may help people recover from physical injury faster and more effectively. By reducing inflammation, pain, infection, and muscle damage, turmeric can support the body’s healing process and improve the quality of life of the injured person.

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Introducing, VITALITEA

We’re really excited to launch our small batch brew business, making what we think is the most potent, healthiest, and incredibly good tasting new beverage available today. Our circle of friends have been enjoying VITALITEA for months while we prepared to offer it to more folks who are committed to their health and wellness. They keep coming back, and their reasons are as diverse as the people themselves! Relief of nagging, chronic joint pain is my favorite comment, because after suffering from chronic knee pain for decades, I can enjoy walking the golf course pain free, and jogging with my pup Lily. Literally anyone and everyone would benefit from the therapeutic and apoptogenic effects of VITALITEA, but certain factors indicate that VITALITEA would offer the necessary boost to help you cross your personal goal line. These include:

  • Dieting/Weight management
  • Ketone based energy source
  • Recovery from injury or surgery
  • Pain relief
  • Blood sugar control
  • Gastrointestinal relief

There are many more benefits, too many to list, but it is helpful to think of VITALITEA as a class of adaptogens*.

*(An adaptogen is a type of substance, often found in herbs or plants, that helps the body cope with various forms of stress and promotes overall balance and well-being. These substances are believed to have the ability to “adapt” their effects according to the specific needs of an individual, whether it is by supporting the immune system, regulating hormone levels, enhancing energy, or promoting mental clarity. Adaptogens are known for their potential to modulate the body’s response to stressors, helping to reduce fatigue, improve resilience, and restore equilibrium. They are often used in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine.)

Send us a note and let’s discuss how VITALITEA could help you reach your goals.

Enjoy!

Calcium – DeepSeek answers my question.

Q : please provide a detailed summary of the different types of calcium in terms of the most bioavailable and the general effect of each.

DeepSeek:

Calcium is an essential mineral for bone health, muscle function, nerve signaling, and blood clotting. Its bioavailability—the proportion of calcium that is absorbed and utilized by the body—varies depending on the form of calcium. Below is a detailed summary of the different types of calcium supplements, their bioavailability, and their general effects:

1. Calcium Carbonate

  • Bioavailability: ~20-30% (moderate bioavailability).
  • Characteristics:
    • Contains 40% elemental calcium (the highest concentration among calcium supplements).
    • Requires stomach acid for optimal absorption, so it is best taken with food.
  • General Effects:
    • Effective for improving bone density and preventing osteoporosis.
    • May cause gastrointestinal side effects like constipation, bloating, or gas.
    • Commonly found in over-the-counter antacids (e.g., Tums).
  • Best For: Individuals with normal stomach acid production who can take it with meals.

2. Calcium Citrate

  • Bioavailability: ~25-30% (slightly higher than calcium carbonate).
  • Characteristics:
    • Contains 21% elemental calcium.
    • Does not require stomach acid for absorption, making it a better option for older adults or those with low stomach acid (e.g., on proton pump inhibitors).
  • General Effects:
    • Easier on the digestive system compared to calcium carbonate.
    • Suitable for individuals with digestive issues or absorption problems.
  • Best For: Older adults, people with gastrointestinal disorders, or those taking acid-reducing medications.

3. Calcium Phosphate

  • Bioavailability: ~25% (similar to calcium citrate).
  • Characteristics:
    • Contains 38-39% elemental calcium.
    • Found naturally in dairy products and some fortified foods.
  • General Effects:
    • Supports bone health and is well-tolerated.
    • Less likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects compared to calcium carbonate.
  • Best For: Individuals who prefer a natural source of calcium or those who consume dairy.

4. Calcium Lactate

  • Bioavailability: ~13% (lower than carbonate and citrate).
  • Characteristics:
    • Contains 13% elemental calcium.
    • Derived from lactic acid, making it more soluble in water.
  • General Effects:
    • Gentle on the stomach and less likely to cause constipation.
    • Less concentrated, so larger doses may be needed to meet daily requirements.
  • Best For: Individuals with sensitive stomachs or those who cannot tolerate other forms.

5. Calcium Gluconate

  • Bioavailability: ~9% (low bioavailability).
  • Characteristics:
    • Contains 9% elemental calcium.
    • Highly soluble in water and often used in intravenous (IV) calcium therapy.
  • General Effects:
    • Rarely used as a dietary supplement due to low calcium content.
    • Commonly used in medical settings to treat acute calcium deficiencies or hyperkalemia.
  • Best For: Medical use rather than daily supplementation.

6. Calcium Hydroxyapatite

  • Bioavailability: ~20-25% (similar to calcium carbonate and citrate).
  • Characteristics:
    • Derived from bone tissue and contains calcium, phosphorus, and trace minerals.
    • Often marketed as a “whole food” source of calcium.
  • General Effects:
    • Supports bone health and may provide additional nutrients like collagen.
    • Generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects.
  • Best For: Individuals looking for a natural, whole-food calcium source.

7. Calcium Orotate

  • Bioavailability: Not well-studied, but believed to be moderate.
  • Characteristics:
    • Bound to orotic acid, which may enhance cellular uptake.
    • Less commonly used and more expensive than other forms.
  • General Effects:
    • May support bone health and cellular function.
    • Limited research on its efficacy compared to other forms.
  • Best For: Individuals interested in alternative or experimental supplements.

8. Coral Calcium

  • Bioavailability: ~20-25% (similar to calcium carbonate).
  • Characteristics:
    • Derived from fossilized coral reefs and contains calcium carbonate and trace minerals.
    • Often marketed as a natural source of calcium.
  • General Effects:
    • Supports bone health but has no proven superiority over other forms.
    • Environmental concerns related to coral harvesting.
  • Best For: Individuals seeking a natural supplement, though other forms are more cost-effective.

Key Considerations for Bioavailability:

  • Vitamin D: Enhances calcium absorption, regardless of the form.
  • Dosage: Smaller doses (500 mg or less) are absorbed more efficiently than larger doses.
  • Timing: Spread doses throughout the day for better absorption.
  • Food Interactions: Some foods (e.g., high-fiber or oxalate-rich foods) can inhibit calcium absorption.

Summary of Most Bioavailable Forms:

  1. Calcium Citrate: Best for absorption, especially in individuals with low stomach acid.
  2. Calcium Carbonate: Most cost-effective and widely used, but requires food for optimal absorption.
  3. Calcium Phosphate: Natural and well-tolerated, often found in dairy.

For most people, calcium citrate or calcium carbonate (taken with food) are the most practical and effective options. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting calcium supplements, especially if you have underlying health conditions or take other medications.

April 5 Production Run Introduces Enhancements

The April 5, 2024 production run, just completed, was the first to use freshly ground spices. Prior to today, we had used powdered cinnamon, cardamom, cloves and nutmeg. Starting with today’s run, our goal is to freshly grind these spices hours before the cooking process. It is more time consuming and more difficult to source the raw product. However, the taste enhancement of freshly grinding spices is good enough to take on the extra effort. Not to mention how pleasant it is to evoke long lost memories by smelling the spices in their most aromatic state!

Regular customer deliveries will begin tomorrow morning.

LIVE WELL…STAY WELL

Welcome, to our new customers!

We took a little break from writing and posting, but we have been busy getting our fingers yellowed, and our brew kettles going, brewing VITALITEA for your enjoyment.

Each day we learn a little bit more about how our elixir works, how to best use it, and who the people are for who the tea is able to deliver maximum effectiveness.  There is a lot to write about, and we will take the time to clearly express all our thoughts.  Today, we would like to summarize the 5 factors that make our tea so effective as an anti-inflammatory. 

BIOAVAILABILITY

Bioavailability is the “holy grail” of nutrition.  We can consume a ton of vitamins and watch them all go literally into the toilet in our bright gold color urine.  Don’t like to be crude but for the most part, we really do pi** away most of the vitamins we consume.   The problem is that when consumed in this form, the vitamins are no bioavailable.  They are processed through as waste.  They never metabolize in the body and provide the benefit we seek.  Turmeric, which contains curcumin, is one of the most powerful anti-inflammatories in nature.  But surprisingly, only 1% of the magical substance is metabolized by the body.  So it makes sense that if we could increase bioavailability to 2% we could double the effectiveness of turmeric!  That’s what we think we have accomplished. This is how:

  1. We begin with fresh, organic turmeric that is sourced locally here in Georgia, and we clean the rhizomes thoroughly with vinegar and distilled water.


  2. We cold press the rhizomes, with an approximate yield of 8 ounces (volume) of turmeric from 18 ounces (weight) of rhizomes.
    Cold-pressed turmeric is more bioavailable than powdered turmeric primarily because the cold-pressing process preserves the natural enzymes and vitamins in the turmeric root. This method ensures a higher concentration of curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, which is responsible for its health benefits. Additionally, cold-pressed turmeric often includes black pepper, which contains piperine, a substance that can enhance the absorption of curcumin by up to 2000%1. In contrast, powdered turmeric has lower levels of curcumin due to processing and its bioavailability is further reduced as it’s poorly absorbed in the water-based environment of the gut.
  3. The cold pressed turmeric, along with cold pressed ginger rhizomes, are slow cooked in a base of MCT oil.
    Heating turmeric can make its nutrients more bioavailable. This is because heat helps release curcumin, the active compound in turmeric known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, making it more available for absorption by our body. Cooking turmeric with oil, especially at 100 degrees Celsius, increases its bioavailability. However, cooking at high temperatures (above 100 degrees Celsius) can degrade curcumin to compounds which may have similar or even better medicinal properties
  4. The formulation includes black pepper
    Adding spices, particularly black pepper, to turmeric significantly enhances its bioavailability. The active ingredient in black pepper, piperine, helps inhibit certain enzymes in the body that would otherwise break down the curcumin in turmeric, allowing more of it to enter the bloodstream1. Additionally, consuming turmeric with a source of fat can also increase bioavailability, as curcumin is fat-soluble, meaning it’s absorbed directly into the bloodstream when consumed with fat. This combination of piperine and fat makes the beneficial compounds in turmeric more accessible to the body.

The accumulation of the effects of these cooking method appears to yield a highly bioavailable vehicle for turmeric, ginger, and other wholesome ingredients to work their natural magic for us.

LIve well…stay well.

Rabbitabb VITALITEA, of course

What is your favorite drink?

Perfect question for me! Come learn about the tea that gives you abundant energy, superior protection and general vitality using the magic of cold pressed turmeric and ginger, and a number of delicious and healthy spices.

Recovering from injury or surgery, preventing infection, trying to control weight? VITALITEA can help you meet all those goals in a delicious way.

Come check us out and please register your contact info on the Web site so we can keep you updated on production schedules and other matters.

Live well…stay well

2 OUNCES!!

We did the math, and were surprised at the result. Every 32 oz jar of VITALITEA contains the cold pressed juice of over 2 ounces of fresh, organic, premium turmeric rhizomes.

This helps to explain why our tea is so fast and effective. The extracted juice of so much turmeric, cooked with our unique method, makes the curumin bioavailable.

This is especially true when the tea is consumed prior to a workout. Increased blood flow results in immediate, calming, energizing, and motivating effects.