Update 1/6/20. Zyflamend Whole Body is touted as a natural herbal response to inflammation. The supplement is said as being able to benefit many conditions related to inflammation most notably arthritis, cancer osteoporosis, and back pain. But, does Zyflamend really work or is it a scam? Unlike many natural healing supplements, Zyflamend has several clinical studies published in medical journals. In this review, we'll look at the research and try to figure out if it works. Possible side effects will also be addressed. Does it really work? Let's see what we can discover.
Zyflamend Benefits
The product website states that Whole Body was designed to provide:
Zyflamend Ingredients
According to NewChapter.com, the company that makes this supplement, the Whole Body formula has the following ingredients in 2 soft gels:
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) | 150 mg | % DV |
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) | 110 mg | NA |
Ginger (Zingiber Officinalis) | 100 mg | NA |
Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum) | 100 mg | NA |
Organic Green Tea (Camellia sinensis) | 100 mg | NA |
Hu Zhang (Polygonum cuspidatum) | 80 mg | NA |
Chinese Goldthread (Coptis chinensis) | 40 mg | NA |
Barberry (Berberis vulgaris) | 40 mg | NA |
Organic Oregano (Origanum vulgare) | 40 mg | NA |
Chinese Skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis) | 20 mg | NA |
NA=daily value not established
Other Ingredients Listed
The Whole Body supplement label also lists these additional ingredients:
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- maltodextrin
- hypromellose (capsule)
- organic yellow beeswax
- candelilla wax,
- organic sunflower oil
- organic olive oil
These ingredients likely play no role in the benefits of the product.
Zyflamend Research
The NewChapter.com website states that “Zyflamend has been studied at leading research institutions and has been shown to benefit multiple areas of health including joint health, skin health, bone health, and normal tissue growth.” There is indeed research on Zyflamend with many of these studies involving the effects of Zyflamend and prostate cancer.
This supplement has several clinical studies – more than I see for most dietary supplements. Below is a summary of each investigation broken down by date to help you better make sense of them.
2016 Research
In a report titled Maintenance Therapy Containing Metformin and/or Zyflamend for Advanced Prostate Cancer: A Case Series, researchers note 4 cases of men with prostate cancer that were helped by the supplement.
2012 Research
A test-tube study titled Zyflamend, a polyherbal mixture, down regulates class I and class II histone deacetylases and increases p21 levels in castrate-resistant prostate cancer cells reported the supplement affected prostate cancer cells.
In the study titled Zyflamend, a combination of herbal extracts attenuates tumor growth in murine xenograft models of prostate cancer researchers noted that mice, given the human-dose equivalent of the supplement, reduced prostate cancer cell growth. It's pretty interesting that they gave the mice the amount used in the supplement. I don't see that often.
Researchers published a test-tube study titled Carnosol, a constituent of Zyflamend, inhibits aryl hydrocarbon receptor-mediated activation of CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 transcription and mutagenesis which noted the supplement (and carnosol, one of the compounds in the product) inhibited expression of two types of cancer-causing genes and their related cell mutations.
Researchers released the results of a test-tube study titled, Zyflamend sensitizes tumor cells to TRAIL-induced apoptosis through up-regulation of death receptors and down-regulation of survival proteins: role of ROS-dependent CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein-homologous protein pathway, which reported that the supplement improved the death of cancer cells by making them more sensitive the immune system.
The results of another test-tube study titled, Zyflamend suppresses growth and sensitizes human pancreatic tumors to gemcitabine in an orthotopic mouse model through modulation of multiple targets, indicated that the supplement, could inhibit the spread of pancreas cancer cells. The effect was greater when the supplement was combined with anti-cancer medications. The supplement was also noted to reduce NFKB, a protein that is related to cellular inflammation.
NFKB is a hot topic in research because of the link between inflammation and diseases like cancer, heart disease and maybe even aging. Other supplements touted to reduce NFKB include Protandim and Anatabloc so see those reviews for additional information.
Another test-tube study titled, Zyflamend inhibits the expression and function of androgen receptor and acts synergistically with bicalutamide to inhibit prostate cancer cell growth, indicated that the supplement inhibited the spread of prostate cancer cells and that this effect was greater when combined with prostate cancer medications.
2011 Research
Researchers released the results of a test tube study titled Zyflamend reduces the expression of androgen receptor in a model of castrate-resistant prostate cancer, which indicated the supplement could decrease the growth of prostate cancer cells.
Another test-tube study titled Zyflamend mediates therapeutic induction of autophagy to apoptosis in melanoma cells, indicating the supplement inhibited the growth of skin cancer cells.
2010 Research
In a review article titled Antioxidants and antiinflammatory dietary supplements for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, the authors noted that they could not recommend the supplement for osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis because there are no human trials showing that it helped those conditions.
2009 Research
Researchers released the study Zyflamend in men with high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia: results of a phase I clinical trial. This study consisted of 29 men (age 40-75) at risk for prostate cancer. Of these, 23 men completed the 18-month study. Every 3 months, blood was taken and analyzed for various things including PSA, CRP, NFKB, and testosterone. Men took Zyflamend gel caps 3 times per day.
The researchers noted Zylamend alone ―and in combination with other supplements:
- reduced PSA levels
- reduced CRP (a marker for inflammation)
- reduced NFKB (a marker for inflammation)
No changes in testosterone were noted. Researchers saw no significant changes in the COX 2 enzyme. This is opposite the findings of the 2012 study mentioned above.
This study appears to be the first human trial of Zyflamend. While interesting, this study did not include a placebo group (that's a problem). Also, the study makes no mention of the other supplements used.
2008 Research
Zyflamend reduces LTB4 formation and prevents oral carcinogenesis in a 7,12-dimethylbenz[alpha]anthracene (DMBA)-induced hamster cheek pouch model. Here, researchers noted that the topical application of the supplement to the cheeks of hampers reduced chemicals associated with cellular inflammation and mouth cancer.
2007 Research
Zyflamend, a polyherbal preparation, inhibits invasion, suppresses osteoclastogenesis, and potentiates apoptosis through down-regulation of NF-kappa B activation and NF-kappa B-regulated gene products. In this investigation, researchers noted the supplement reduced the formation of osteoclasts (bone-eating cells involved in osteoporosis) as well as the inflammation protein called NFKB. This was a test-tube study.
The role of Zyflamend, an herbal anti-inflammatory, as a potential chemopreventive agent against prostate cancer: a case report. Researcehrs report the results of one person involved in the 2009 human Zyflamend study summarized above. I'm not sure why the researchers decided to release the results of only 1 person? This makes no sense to me.
Zyflamend-mediated inhibition of human prostate cancer PC3 cell proliferation: effects on 12-LOX and Rb protein phosphorylation Here, researchers reported noted the supplement inhibited the growth of prostate cancer cells in a test tube.
2005 Research
Zyflamend, a unique herbal preparation with nonselective COX inhibitory activity induces apoptosis of prostate cancer cells that lack COX-2 expression, Researchers noted that the supplement caused the death of prostate cancer cells in a test tube.
Zyflamend And Cancer
Several clinical studies of this supplement involve cancer, with an emphasis on prostate cancer and to a lesser degree, pancreatic cancer. That's pretty rare as dietary supplement research goes.
The research is interesting but, for the moment, most evidence is limited to lab animal and test-tube studies. I only found 1 human study of Zyflamend and prostate cancer.
Note. When I say “test tube study” I'm making a general statement regarding research that is not conducted in either lab animals or humans.
The supplement may reduce PSA levels, something men may be interested in. One study mentioned above has noted the supplement can lower PSA levels. Currently, there is no evidence the supplement reduces the risk of prostate cancer. Whether the supplement can help breast cancer needs more study.
Zyflamend And Osteoporosis
One test-tube study noting the supplement suppressed the formation of osteoclasts, a type of bone-eating cell that plays a role in the formation of osteoporosis and osteopenia.
Theoretically, this might hint the supplement may offer protection against osteoporosis and/or osteopenia but since there are no human studies of this, it is difficult to tell how much help it would be at this time. The best defense against osteoporosis is exercise.
Zyflamend And Arthritis
There is some research noting the supplement may reduce the COX2 enzyme as well as the protein, NFKB, both of which might play a role in arthritis. This is interesting, but I have not seen any studies on the question of “Zyflamend and arthritis pain.” In other words, does the supplement help people with arthritis feel better?
In a review of previous research, conducted in 2010, researchers did not recommend the supplement. This contrasts with many of the positive reviews on Amazon by verified purchasers of the product. There is even praise by some who have fibromyalgia, a form of arthritis.
See the Ribose and Fibromyalgia review for more on this topic.
Zyflamend And Back Pain
A lot of websites mention this supplement can help back pain. It might, but no conclusive evidence on back pain could be located. If Zyflamend reduces inflammation, it might indeed have an effect on helping to heal some types of muscular back pain but as or now, other than testimonials, there isn't any good proof either way.
Zyflamend Research Summary
Here is a summary of the Zyflamend research I was able to locate:
Study Name | Type of Study |
---|---|
2016 Maintenance Therapy Containing Metformin and/or Zyflamend for Advanced Prostate Cancer: A Case Series, | Case report of 4 men with prostate cancer |
2014 Zyflamend, a polyherbal mixture, down regulates class I and class II histone deacetylases and increases p21 levels in castrate-resistant prostate cancer cells | Test tube study |
2012 Zyflamend, a combination of herbal extracts, attenuates tumor growth in murine xenograft models of prostate cancer | Mouse study |
2012: Carnosol, a constituent of Zyflamend, inhibits aryl hydrocarbon receptor-mediated activation of CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 transcription and mutagenesis | Test tube study |
2012: Zyflamend sensitizes tumor cells to TRAIL-induced apoptosis through up-regulation of death receptors and down-regulation of survival proteins: role of ROS-dependent CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein-homologous protein pathway | Test tube study |
2012: Zyflamend suppresses growth and sensitizes human pancreatic tumors to gemcitabine in an orthotopic mouse model through modulation of multiple targets | Test tube study |
2012: Zyflamend inhibits the expression and function of androgen receptor and acts synergistically with bicalutimide to inhibit prostate cancer cell growth | Test tube study |
2011: Zyflamend reduces the expression of androgen receptor in a model of castrate-resistant prostate cancer | Test tube study |
2011: Zyflamend mediates therapeutic induction of autophagy to apoptosis in melanoma cells | Test tube study |
2010: Antioxidants and antiinflammatory dietary supplements for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis | Review article of various supplements |
2009: Zyflamend in men with high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia: results of a phase I clinical trial | Human Study |
2008: Zyflamend reduces LTB4 formation and prevents oral carcinogenesis in a 7,12-dimethylbenz[alpha]anthracene (DMBA)-induced hamster cheek pouch model | Lab animal study |
2007: Zyflamend, a polyherbal preparation, inhibits invasion, suppresses osteoclastogenesis, and potentiates apoptosis through down-regulation of NF-kappa B activation and NF-kappa B-regulated gene products | Test tube study |
2007: The role of Zyflamend, an herbal anti-inflammatory, as a potential chemopreventive agent against prostate cancer: a case report | Case report of 1 person |
2007: Zyflamend-mediated inhibition of human prostate cancer PC3 cell proliferation: effects on 12-LOX and Rb protein phosphorylation | Test tube study |
2005: Zyflamend, a unique herbal preparation with nonselective COX inhibitory activity, induces apoptosis of prostate cancer cells that lack COX-2 expression | Test tube study |
I personally discount the results of the 2007 human report because it's a report of only 1 person involved in the 2009 human study. As such, that person has already been included in the 2009 human study. Let's group the 2007 human case report with the 2009 human study because these are basically the same thing.
To be fair, let's also leave out the 2010 review article on Zyflemend and antioxidants for arthritis because it's not a study on Zyflamend alone.
Zlyflamend Nighttime
There is another version of this product that is supposed to be taken at night. It is called Zlyflamend Nighttime. Here is a side-by-side comparison of the Zlyflamend nighttime and Zlyflamend Whole Body:
Zyflamend Nighttime (2 capsules) | Zyflamend Whole Body (2 capsules) |
---|---|
Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum) (leaf) 150 mg | Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) 150 mg |
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) 100 mg | Turmeric (Curcuma longa) 110 mg |
Chinese Skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis) (root) 100 mg | Ginger (Zingiber officinale) 100 mg |
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) (leaf) 85 mg | Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum) 100 mg |
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) (flower) 75 mg | Organic Green Tea (Camellia sinensis) (leaf) extract 100 mg) |
Hops (Humulus lupulus) 75 mg | Hu Zhang (Polygonum cuspidatum) (root and rhizome) 80 mg |
Ginger (Zingiber officinalis) (rhizome) 75 mg | Chinese Goldthread (Coptis chinensis) (root) extract 40 mg |
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) (root) 40 mg | Barberry (Berberis vulgaris) (root) hydroethanolic extract 40 mg |
Organic Oregano (Origanum vulgare) (leaf) | |
Chinese Skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis) (root) extract 20 mg |
Valerian root is well known for its sleep-inducing effects.
Other Ingredients
Other ingredients also listed in the PM version of Zyflamend are
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- hypromellose (capsule)
- organic olive oil, maltodextrin
- organic yellow beeswax
- candelilla wax
- silicon dioxide
These additional ingredients likely play no role in the effects of the nighttime version of the product
Who Makes Zyflamend?
The supplement is produced by a company called New Chapter Inc. Their address is 90 Technology Drive Brattleboro, VT 05301. To contact New Chapter their phone numbers are:
- 800-543-7279
- (802) 257-0018
The Better Business Bureau gives New Chapter a rating of “A+” when this review was created. Here is the BBB file on New Chapter. According to the BBB, New Chapter was created in 1983.
In March 2012, Proctor and Gamble bought New Chapter.
Zyflamend vs. Anatabloc
The supplement appears to reduce an inflammation protein called NFKB. The reduction of NFKB is something that the makers of Anatabloc also claim. There is research that Anatabloc can reduce NFKB as well. Because of this, some might wonder:
- Is Zyflamend better than Anatabloc?
- Are both supplements better together?
Sadly, I don't think we will get an answer on this anytime soon. Anatabloc is no longer sold in the US.
For more information see the Anatabloc review.
Zyflamend vs. Protandim
Protandim is touted as an anti-aging supplement and is quite popular in some circles. The people who sell Protandim claim that it can reduce cellular inflammation. One of the ingredients in Protandim is Tumeric. Tumeric also happens to be in Zyflamend.
Could the Tumeric be the common denominator between these supplements? Head-to-head comparisons of Zyflamend and Protandim cannot be located,
See the PB125 review for more insights
Questions And Answers
Does Zyflamend contain caffeine?
No, the supplement is caffeine-free and has no stimulants.
Does it raise blood pressure?
Clinical studies don't show this. Some of the ingredients may lower blood pressure, however. See the side effects section below.
Does it cause people to gain weight?
No study has noted people gain weight while taking Zyflamend. Likewise, no clinical studies show weight loss either.
Does Zyflamend cause constipation?
No studies show constipation as a side effect. To reduce constipation, make sure to maintain enough fluids and fiber in the diet.
Does Zyflamend prevent cancer?
There is preliminary evidence that Zyflamend may help prostate cancer, but it's too soon to know how much. There's no proof taking the supplement will reduce the risk of prostate cancer or extend the lives of those who have cancer either.
Zyflamend Side Effects
Zyflamend appears safe in the vast majority of people. I'm not aware of any serious side effects. There are over 2000 comments on a Zyflamend supplement on Amazon, with most of them positive.
That said, for those who want to try Zyflamend, here are some things to consider. This list is not complete.
- Start with less than recommended for the first week to see how you respond
- Speak to your doctor first if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- If you take any medications like blood thinners, speak to your doctor/pharmacist
- Stop taking Zyflamend at least 2 weeks before having surgery
- One human study noted mild GI discomfort from Zyflamend (this is common for many supplements)
- One study noted the supplement may reduce PSA levels. This may have an impact on PSA blood tests.
- At least one study noted that Zyflamend reduces COX2, an enzyme involved in many things such as arthritis. This might mean Zyflamend is a natural COX2 inhibitor. How Zyflamend interacts with other COX2 inhibitors such as aspirin or prescription arthritis medications is not known.
- Tumeric may interact with blood thinner medications
- Ginger may interact with blood thinner medications and reduce blood pressure. People with heart disease should talk to their doctor before using Zyflamend.
Does Zyflamend Work?
There is a growing body of clinical research suggesting Zyflamend may be an effective natural reducer of inflammation. It might also have benefits for people with prostate cancer too. The research is interesting, and the combination of ingredients in Zyflamend seems logical. Zyflamend is also less expensive than many other natural pain remedies. There are several lab animal test tube studies – and some human studies – that seem to show this supplement is doing something. Did it work for you? Leave a comment below and let me know.
Phil Shirk says
Joe,
I’ve taken zyflamend twice a day for three years to control knee pain. The results were great no pain at all. Six weeks ago my eye doctor prescribed prednisone. It seems as if the prednisone,20 mg twice a day, has cancelled the zyflamend. Pain and fatigue have returned. Any thoughts on this problem.
Joe says
Phil, I’m not sure. Id ask a pharmacist who might be able to shed light on this. Did the effects of zyflamend go away immediately when you started taking prednisone or did it take time? were you taking zyflamend from the same bottle or did you notice this after you bought a new bottle of zyflamend?
cyn says
Hi Joe- Sorry I did not read your blog before giving Zyflamend a try, at the advice of my Rheumatologist. I suffered lack of affect, which caused me to lower the dose, then go off.
After a while decided to try again, on the lower dose since I real had gotten relief. All this with the physician monitoring me.
After three weeks developed tinnitus, which apparently has no cure.
Needless to say, have gone off the Zyflamend. Would rather have the pain than the ringing in my ears.
Hopefully the noise will clear up. Does not seem to be another reason for the tinnitus, that I can think of, Especially since the Dr. believes that aspirin and caffeine make it worse. Has anyone ever reported these side effects?
Joe says
Cyn, I don’t think I’ve heard of ringing in the ears from zyflamend before. I’m really sorry that happened to you. I wish I had an answer… I will say a prayer tonight that it improves..
Zellyn says
Hi Joe, I like your reviews and have referred to them before. I agree there needs to be more human studies on Zyflamend. I was on it for 3-4 months. I think it did help with general achiness and inflammation of arthritis and fibromyalgia. However, in the same time, I developed worsening gastritis in spite of treatment with Zantac and Nexxium.
I became unable to drink coffee (horrors!), or any acidic drinks without pain. I have not changed medications but have stopped Zyflamend and symptoms are improved. I might try again in the future, but for now, I am off Zyflamend.
Joe says
Zellyn, thanks for the feedback and sorry that happened to you. I’m glad you are feeling better now 🙂
Gary says
Hi Joe,
There’s a very interesting if not unnerving article on Curcumin in the International Journal of Cancer IJC. You can find the PDF here http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ijc.24967/full or search ‘The dark side of curcumin’ Burgos Moron .
Basically most of the evidence that supports the therapeutic potential of curcumin is mainly based on in vitro studies and you can’t take enough for long enough to realize benefit without doing harm to the liver.
Joe says
Gary, thanks for that. I had not seen that letter before. Ive saved it for my files for future reference. I appreciate you taking the time to find that for me.
Gary says
Curcumin is poorly absorbed by the human digestive tract. The cells lining the intestine are equipped with enzymes that convert curcumin into other substances, and molecular pumps that pump curcumin and curcumin byproducts out of the intestinal lining back into the intestine. Less than 1% of the curcumin one consumes actually makes it into the bloodstream, and the liver rapidly destroys most of this. http://www.delano.com/blog/?p=56
Joe,
I’m looking for another study on the effects of curcumin that I once came across that caused my to stop taking a supplement mix of curcumin & piperine (for enhanced bioavailability. ). I would like to send it to you if I do locate it again.
Joe says
Gary, thanks and if you find that info on piperine and curcumin Id like to take a look at it.
Wendy says
I take an anti-platelet medication and my husband takes a 325 mg aspirin a day (he had open heart surgery 3 yr ago for an aortic aneurysm). I am leery of tumeric for that reason as I read it interferes with blood clotting and you need to tell your dr if you are on it. Also a person has to be off tumeric for 2 wks before any type of surgery. Is my fear of tumeric realistic or is the mg low enough in Zyflamend that it isn’t a problem? Our dr is very old school and does not recommend any supplements.
Joe says
Wendy, your doctor is right. There could be an interaction between tumeric and blood thinner medications. I also feel its wise to stop all supplements not dr recommended 2 weeks before surgery. One of my rules of thumb is when in doubt, assume the supplement is a blood thinner until we know more.
John D. says
I have chronic, inoperable back pain. Am on very strong narcotics for such. Recently have developed a bursitis in my left arm due to an injury. Even with my back medicine, the arm is very sore and noticeably weaker. After the FIRST DAY of taking the Zyflamend my arm has stopped hurting. I have ordered a large bottle. Unbelievable results for me! I am taking 2, 2 times per day (suggested dosage is 1, twice per day). I have no affiliation with New Chapter or with Zyflamend.
Joe says
John, thats fantastic! Glad to hear Zyflamend is helping you!
Jim says
On separate occasions, I’ve eliminated the symptoms of plantar fasciatus and osteoarthritis in my knee with 10 grams of MSM per day; I weigh 240#.
Joe says
Jim, thats a lot of MSM. glad you are pain free.
joy says
Hi folks, going into my 2nd month on Zyflamend, and still take 4-6 Anatabloc per day. I “think” the combo is helping. I have a messy body of Fibro, OA and a mess from hip replacement, body alignment is way off from replacement.
I do other stuff too, like acupuncture every week or other week and some Mesotherapy injections too, both from my integrative rheumy.
Now I’m seeing a chiro who does ART work (Active Release Technique) on my right IT band down the side of thigh from hip replacement which is heading into 3 yrs…it’s been a nightmare from the replacement. I belive the ART work is helping too, breaking up the TIGHT band down the side of thigh, IT band that is. Iliotibial band is the name.
Anyway, I’m liking the Zyflamend. Feeling no side effects….
Joe says
Joy, good luck with your IT band issue! Mine acts up sometimes too if I dont stretch and bike too much.
Roseann says
Hi Joy, roseann again. I started Zylamend, too, about the same time as you did, after reading Joe’s review on it. I also restarted the Anatobloc again, as I had some left over. This time I followed Robert’s advice to let them dissolve completely. I have to get rid of all this inflammation! I started my husband on Zylamend, too, for his prostate issues, which Joe also reviewed. Thank goodness for JOE!
I also started a new pain med early August, so it’s hard to tell what all is helping, but I got my energy back! The pain part is much harder to get rid of, and it may be because I am doing more. I know I’ll always have pain-too much is already degenerated, plus like you, my body is not in balance because of a knee replacement, degenerative disk disease, and an old injury. No one is as fair in his reviews as Joe. Most others are out to sell products they are paid to sell.
Joe says
Roseann, thanks – that’s really kind of you to say! 🙂
Roseann says
Joe, I never write anything but what I feel is true. Truly, in my experience of looking up many things, yours is the only truly unbiased site I have ever found. You look at research, you leave the decisions on whether to buy or not to buy up to the person, you have never sold out to a company or product. You are a truly unique person, who really cares about people. I come from a somewhat research oriented background and I’m an RN-BSN, who has used statistics and research in my career. You are the real thing and the best! This is from my heart, and it’s what I believe.
Joe says
Roseann, thank you very much. It really does mean a lot to me 🙂
Roseann says
This comment is mainly to Joe Cannon-Joe, I’ve also started taking Tumeric around May of this year for it’s anti-inflammatory effects, as well as cinnamon. And Joy introduced me to Grapeseed extract. I believe these are helping, in an anecdotal study of one person-me! And they all come from nature.
Joe says
Roseann, I’m really glad its helping you 🙂
joy says
I just got some Zyflamend, I was feeling pretty darn good on anatabloc for 4 months, Jan-April this year and then it seemed to stop working for me…I still take it but less per day, so now I’m adding Zyflamend and see what goes….don’t like to spend money for something I don’t seem to be getting results anymore…ummmmmm
Jerry says
Thanks for putting this info together. I had started to do research on my own because a friend has recommended it. You’ve saved me a lot of time.
Joe says
Jerry, happy to oblige 🙂
Greg says
Not to hijack or sidetrack – but the GMO issue becomes quite scary when you factor in that we now know that food mRNA makes its way into our cells and alters gene expression there, but we have next to no idea how this affects our overall physiology – so how then can we even assess the potential danger of modifying food at a genetic level?
http://evolvify.com/rice-wheat-potatoes-interfere-with-gene-expression/
http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=vitamins-minerals-and-microrna
But there is profit to be made – and a co-opted government is attempting not to protect us from an unknown danger, but force us to accept it – to take away our ability to even know that we are taking it in.
http://www.policymic.com/articles/45531/march-against-monsanto-instead-of-the-government-let-third-parties-and-the-market-regulate-gmos
Combine that with the fact GMO’s are now “in the wild…” Pandora may never get the box closed again…
Joe says
Greg, no argument from me on GMO foods. I don’t think GMO foods have been out long enough to know the long term ramifications. In nutrition there is a term called GRAS – generally recognized as safe. To be called GRAS, the product has to be in the food supply for at least 50 years. Since GMO foods have not been around 50 years, they cant be classified as GRAS. We will just have to see what happens, but I want GMO listing on foods. I’m ashamed that our Gov does not force this issue.
Greg says
Understood. And like I said, I appreciate you taking the time to do this. But there is often a paucity of research and likely always will be – in that case sometimes the only way to know is to figure out what makes sense, what has at least some clinical support, and take a “try it and see” mentality.
The downside is we are conditioned to want instant results which will often not be forthcoming, a shortcut to avoid making lifestyle changes – then when some supplement that *could* be a good part of a healthy lifestyle doesn’t magically cure all our ills, we decide “it doesn’t work.”
That, to me, is a shame. Whether you attribute it to design or convergent/sympathetic evolution, our bodies are capable of scavenging a large number of phytochemicals and using them to our benefit – and it seems hard to truly thrive for long periods without a variety of them, which to me is why the first and best medicine is a diet that includes a wide variety of organic non-GMO things that grow from the ground.
Joe says
Greg, no problem and I do agree. One of the reasons I write my reviews – in addition to my own curiosity – is because of the paucity of research on products. By examining that research and putting it in the right context, my hope is to contribute something positive to people as they decide what might be right for them.
I agree totally on variety and food, preferably organic if possible non-GMO until we know more about that stuff.
Greg says
I definitely agree one must penetrate the hype of the latest miracle cure whether it comes from big pharma or nutriceuticals. In both cases the only one really looking out for you is you.
My basic questions that I’d like to see you answer are:
Have you ever reviewed a product and said “This seems to have good evidence?” It seems to me that the answer to this would be telling.
Have you ever come back and re-reviewed/updated a product when new positive evidence lends support to its effectiveness?
The thing that made my alarm bells go off was the switch from research on ingredients vs product. I’m not sure I understand the criteria by which you determine to do one or the other. I’ve become fairly cynical over time about reviews (discovered that a lot of them are paid for either positive or negative) and even in some cases the studies themselves. Some questionable math goes by unquestioned in the analysis sometimes, and that makes me suspect other monkey business in design and execution.
I do appreciate that you put your time and effort into providing this service – and that you engage with readers. Thanks for the work you put in.
Joe says
Hey Greg, I can definitely appreciate your skepticism with some of the paid reviews you see online. I am no paid by any supplement company -or pham company – to write my reviews. I know you are aware of that. I just wanted to say it because some people do email me and think I have some hidden agenda.
Most of the products I review come from what I see/hear on TV, radio or magazines but a good amount of them are also from people who contact me about products they’ve heard about. I actually have a big list of products that I want to get to.
I don’t think I’ve ever written the sentence: “this seems to have good evidence” because, I really am trying not to endorse products. I don’t think my saying something like ” this stuff seems to have good evidence” would be telling or not about me because it would be my opinions. Yes, my opinions would be based on the research, but research or not, I’d quickly be accused of being biased in some way. I can’t please everybody Greg and so I wont try to. I’ll just keep doing what I do and let people think what they like.
But, I did some digging into past reviews and, since you asked, if you look at my review of Juice Plus you will see that I said “I see more research on Juice Plus than on any other similar supplement.” While I’m sure some may not like that I said that (there are juice plus haters out there), the product has research that it appears to be doing something.
Do those words mean I’m endorsing Juice Plus? Nope. I say look at the research and make your own decision. That’s what I want people to do with all the reviews I write. 🙂
Greg says
Kinda funny how you always seem to conclude there is no proof anything works. Has there ever been a product you reviewed and said, “there is good evidence this works?”
Joe says
Greg, don’t shoot the messenger. I am just showing you the research (or lack of it in some cases) without over hyped words like “clinically proven.” While I personally would like to see better research on Zyflamend, I thought I was pretty kind to Zyflamend by saying that the ingredients seemed logical.
Greg says
So is that a “no?” You’ve never reviewed a product and said that “this looks like it probably works”?
It just seems odd to me that for some products you look at each individual ingredient but for this formulation you only looked at research for the exact formulation. Ginger and Turmeric, which you could argue are the main ingredients, have tons more research in regards to both anti-cancer and inflammation that the zyflamend brand name.
For instance – on tumeric alone:
http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/turmeric
Anecdotally – I developed some osteoarthritis in my hands and after switching to a low inflammation diet and adding ginger and turmeric daily, 95% of the pain and stiffness in my hands was eliminated. Obviously I don’t know exactly what percentage of the benefit comes from each element… but this is a combination I’ve personally had a good experience with, and its made a huge difference in my quality of life. I am able to continue grappling, which I came close to giving up before trying this combination.
The research is still early, but for non-patentable natural remedies, this may always be the case as the money to fund the studies isn’t as readily available as with synthetic drugs which are arguably always going to be more toxic and have more side effects, and the human nature being what it is, and the FDA being run by a revolving door of executives and lobbyists from big pharma and big agribusiness, profit motive encourages fudging with the data to achieve positive results. A bit of skepticism, research, common sense, and experimentation are necessary because of these factors.
My perception is that you because you seem generally skeptical of natural remedies (righty so, but I wonder if you are equally skeptical of all the latest drugs as they hit the market before it turns out they destroy heart valves and the like and get recalled), you are very nearly discouraging people entirely from trying nearly every product I’ve seen you review (though this is by no means an exhaustive survey of your reviews) and I think that you may be doing your readers a disservice.
All, of course, IMHO.
Joe says
Greg, I prefer to lay out the research and let people make their own decisions for the most part. you will agree that ads for supplements contain a lot of hype and very little in the way of potential negative side effects. I try to present a balanced approach by showing the research without the hype. I think people are smart enough to decide for themselves after seeing the research and other information I turn up when I review a product.
Roseann says
To Greg- Joe Cannon is NOT saying something doesn’t work; he is presenting unbiased information about studies that either document or refute effectiveness. He usually ALWAYS mentions that a product COULD work for some people, but the research evidence doesn’t confirm effectiveness in humans.
If you want some place that says “Yes, this works”, read the site that sells the product. Joe gives the research or lack thereof, and he lets US make the decision to buy or not buy! And from what I’ve read from Joe, he is always emphasizing that a good nutritional program and exercise are the foundations of good health. He is providing the best unbiased information I’ve read, thus providing a great SERVICE for many people. BTW, I am NOT his mother or relative.
Joe says
Thanks Roseann 🙂
JO says
Have been taking Zyflamed for about 3 years and for me, it definitely reduces joint pain and aches and pain in general. I’ve tried to stop taking it several times, but in about 2 weeks, the pains come back and I remember why I was taking it and resume. I recommend it to all my friends too.
Joe says
JO, thanks for writing and Im glad zyflamend is helping your pain.
robbo90tt says
What a great post. Been looking for information about Zyflamend all over the web but this is the best resource I came across. Thanks for the information and resources you included!
Joe says
Thanks Robbo, appreciate that!
Different Joe says
I took Zyflamend when my CR-P (C-Reacticve Protein) inflammation markers were coming back with scores of 4+ (you want it below 1.3). Didn’t move the needle after a couple months. Stopped.
What did seem to make a difference was gum restoration surgery. (Note to others: they never explain WHY you shouldn’t use a hard bristled toothbrush, or why brushing too vigorously is bad. It’s because that invigorated tingling feeling is you brushing your gums away.)
CR-P is still slightly high at around 1.5 or so, and I may give Anatabloc a try.
Joe says
Different Joe, thanks for the feedback on Zylflamend and CPR levels. I was curious about that when I wrote my review 🙂
Greg says
One thing to remember is that sometimes a couple of months isn’t enough. Inflammation issues, and osteoarthritis and the like, have built up for years and then we keep assaulting our systems with high glycemic index foods and environmental exposure to everything from pesticides to pthalates to BPH paired with a high stress and/or sedentary lifestyle – and we expect to see the tangible results of reversal it all in 60 days?
I’m not sure that’s a realistic expectation. In my case, I was on a low inflammation diet and taking a few of the ingredients from zyflamend (ginger and tumeric, primarily) for about 6 months before I saw the real difference in my pain symptoms.
And I’m not sure those will do a lot when you have another problem keeping the inflammation up (like severely receded gums).
I can also report a side effect I experienced at first, slight gastrointestinal bleeding. noticed some black spots in my stool, backed off my dose for a couple of weeks and built it back up.
You might try what I have done, daily smoothies with fresh ground ginger and turmeric from the spice rack. I include other ingredients that help as well like olive oil. YMMV, of course.
Joe says
Greg, Id agree the level of damage might cause longer period of times before people might notice changes. with glucosamine sulfate for example, it may take 4-8 weeks according to research. Different products may take longer or less time.
Tabitha says
Can I ask what low inflammation diet you used? I am only 31 and suffering from a lot of joint pain and early arthritis. What is YMMV?
Joe says
Hi Tabitha, I didnt eat a low inflammation diet but someboody else who commented might have. Do take a look at cherry juice (heres my review of tart cherry juice). there is some research that it can reduce inflammation. Fish oils might also reduce inflammation . Heres a review of Fish oils
drpaulkratka says
Chronic inflammation, like you describe Tabitha, is now the norm for many, many people today; and it’s a sign of being unhealthy (exactly like being overweight is a sign of being unhealthy).
A non-inflammatory diet is in essence, a healthy diet style (actually a healthy diet within a healthy lifestyle).
Non-inflammatory diet-style recommendations can be a lengthy conversation, but the short version:
TO AVOID:
1. No grains. Grains in general and wheat in particular contain indigestible proteins (such as gluten) that cause three significant pro-inflammatory events: (a) high blood sugar which leads to chronic elevated insulin levels and ultimately insulin resistance (a major health threat);
(b) intestinal permeability (leaky gut syndrome) which allows for proteins to enter the bloodstream directly from the intestine (versus the correct path of being processed through the liver) resulting in allergies, autoimmune issues, and inflammatory response;
(c) a direct inflammatory response itself.
2. Avoid sugar (and foods that act like sugar – see #1 above). Sugar promotes high insulin levels which results in inflammation.
3. Avoid vegetable oils. Processed vegetable oils are very new to humans and they wreak havoc on the body, promoting inflammation by upsetting the important omega-6 to omega-3 ratio.
Processed vegetable oils are in virtually all processed or packaged foods (so yes, you have to become a master at preparing your own food).
TO SEEK OUT:
4. Eat lots of healthy fats. Fat is the body’s preferred energy source and is involved in nearly every cellular and metabolic process – brain, immune, endocrine/hormone (our cell membranes consist of cholesterol and phospholipids); so butter from grass-fed cows (Kerrygold brand), walnuts, coconut oil, olive oil, and of course omega-3 fish oil are excellent sources of healthy fats that are anti-inflammatory.
A side note: the more healthy fats you eat, the better your blood sugar, and your weight will be maintained (yes, the more healthy fat you eat, the more you will lose weight; I know, that goes against conventional wisdom but it’s scientifically sound principles Not to suggest you need to lose weight :)).
5. Eat lots and lots of organic plant foods, mainly vegetables. These foods contain minerals and trace elements, the building blocks for the cells of our bodies (commercially grown produce lack these critical nutrients and come with the added toxic burden of pesticides, fungicides, herbicides).
Also, plant foods yield an alkaline end metabolic result – alkaline tissues are not prone to inflammation.
6. Eat quality-sourced meats. Pastured beef, lamb and pork, truly free-range chickens (they eat bugs and grubs, not corn and soy), and wild-caught fish. Feedlot raised animals are fed a terrible diet of … grains (corn and soy), so their tissues (the meat we eat) are comprised of things that are bad for us and which promote inflammation (and now nearly all corn and soy are GMO).
TO SUMMARIZE: eat nuts, seeds, vegetables, a little fruit, healthy fats, pastured meats; eat no grains (so that means no bread, cereal, pasta, pizza, bagels, chips), no sugar, no processed vegetable oils (again no chips or fried foods), and no dairy (except butter or heavy cream – they have virtually no milk protein which humans don’t digest well).
Last, drink lots of purified water – that alone will help immensely.
Exercising to the point of exertion, whatever that is for you, helps the body be healthy and fight off the effects of inflammation and oxidation (exertion meaning you’re panting and sweating – you’re having a difficult time carrying on a conversation). I like to say, ‘You only have to work out on the days you eat’ 🙂
Sorry … that wasn’t so short after all.
GREAT BOOKS:
The Paleo Diet Solution by Robb Wolf
Wheat Belly by William Davis
BEST PRACTICES AND VITAL BEHAVIORS:
1. Most people eat a terrible breakfast (they eat breads, cereals, Starbucks, etc.). You must ‘own’ breakfast by eating quality protein and good fats for breakfast.
2. When buying food to prepare for dinner, buy 3x-4x what you’ll eat for dinner; having leftovers is a KEY for eating successfully (i.e. healthy) at lunch.
3. Go to bed earlier. Getting over 7 hours of sleep (8 hours is better) helps the body in numerous ways. Since we have to get up to go to work whenever we do, the solution is to go to bed earlier (even better: avoid TV, phone, tablet before sleep – the electronic stimulation to the brain adversely affects sleep). Better to walk the dog, read, pray – something non-electronic.
Roseann says
Drpaulkratka, what a great summary!! This is what I did by following the advice of a chiropractor who studied inflammation and auto-immune diseases after his wife was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. I have rheumatoid arthritis, and I was pre-diabetic and overweight with hypertension and chronic pain.
He put me on a diet free of glutens, dairy, soy, sugars, and eggs (the egg part I don’t completely understand). He also gave me supplements.
That was over a year ago. Now I have lost and kept off 35 lbs, so my BMI is normal. I am no longer pre-diabetic, my BP has normalized, my horrible fatigue has decreased. Unfortunately, the chronic pain remained, but since I feel overall better, I can cope with it better.
It’s a pretty strict nutritional regimen, but since I feel so much better on it, I have kept following it with very, very few temptations. Your summary is perfect and covers so much. I hope people pay attention and follow your guidelines.
I KNOW from experience they will feel better. I follow all your guidelines as per the info the chiropractor gave me. His wife is also doing really well.
Leo hornsby says
Zyf.didn’t do a thing for my stiff back.
Joe says
Leo, thanks for the feedback!
Tom S says
Regarding all the test tube studies, I recently read an article (I have the pdf) on Tumeric detailing test tube results don’t translate to human results. Bioavailability is what I focus on. For instance we all know the benefits of resveratrol, good stuff. Unfortunately it’s not very bioavailable with a very short half life. Pterostilbene is a cousin of resveratrol with higher bioavailabiliy.
The Dark Side of Curcumin (International Journal of Cancer)
‘The fact that curcumin also undergoes
extensive metabolism in intestine and liver, means that
high concentrations of curcumin cannot be achieved and
maintained in plasma and tissues after oral ingestion’
Not so with Anatabine Citrate, the main ingredient in Anatabloc. Bioavailability has been scientificlly proven. Human studies ongoing and awaiting peer review but anecdotal evidence is strong (as you will note in the comments on your review of Anatabloc).
I’ve stopped many supplements and my daily intake consists Anatabloc, Blu Science’s Pterostilbene product ‘Blu 2 Go’, and Vitamin C.
Joe says
Tom S, you may be right for all I know. Both Zyflamend and Anatabloc, while having interesting research, both suffer from a lack of good human research currently.