In order to bring you the highest quality ingredients in the Focus Essentials dietary supplement, we partnered with a US based manufacturing facility that is world renowned for it's commitment to excellence.  

Focus Essentials is not your ordinary multivitamin. It contains very specific forms of vitamins and minerals that set it apart from any other multivitamin on the market today.

Here are just some of the benefits and differences of the ingredients we use:

Vitamin A (as Natural Beta-Carotene):

Beta-carotene is an abundant yellow/orange pigment that gives many plants their color including fruits and vegetables. Beta-carotene is the main dietary source of Vitamin A. When foods containing beta-carotene are consumed, it is readily converted into Vitamin A to be used by the body to achieve optimal levels essential for normal development, a strong immune system, healthy skin, and good vision.

In addition, Beta-carotene is considered the safest and most available form of Vitamin A. In the body, Vitamin A has many functions. Its primary role is to support cellular growth, healing, and to act as a potent antioxidant to neutralize damaging molecules known as free radicals. Vitamin A has also been shown to aid in the prevention of multiple diseases and for the treatment of many ailments such as depression, anxiety, and stress.

 

Vitamin C (from Acerola Cherry Extract)

It’s a well-known fact that the acerola cherry has a very high vitamin C content. But is there really a difference between acerola vitamin C and the vitamin C that we get from other sources?

The answer: yes.

The acerola cherry is one of the fruits that contains over 150 phytonutrients. Also, it has the highest vitamin C content. And unlike other foods with vitamin C, this superfood is different because it has the complete vitamin C complex.

Just one Acerola Cherry contains double the amount of Vitamin C than an entire orange.

Vitamin C is a very well-known antioxidant that helps to prevent free radical damage and protect against some illnesses involving oxidative stress. Published studies have reported a link between oxidative stress and neuropsychological disorders and have concluded that a diet rich in vitamin C may be an effective addition to traditional psychological treatment for anxiety and depression[1]. 

Keep in mind that the acerola cherry can give you most of the vitamin C needed for your optimum health.

Vitamin D (as Cholecalciferol)

Cholecalciferol, also known as Vitamin D3, is a potent form of Vitamin D used to maintain adequate levels of Vitamin D in the body and to correct Vitamin D insufficiencies and deficiencies.

Vitamin D3 is essential for the proper absorption of calcium and phosphorus minerals when consumed in the diet. Studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency is associated with less sleep or more restless sleep.

When people are sleep deprived, they feel more angry, hostile, irritable and depressed.

Insufficient vitamin D has been linked to depressive symptoms, cognitive impairment, and the development of schizophrenia.

 

Vitamin E (as Mixed Tocopherols)

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that is comprised of compounds known as tocopherols and tocotrienols. The most readily available form of vitamin E is alpha-tocopherol. Vitamin E regulates enzymatic reactions, supports energy production in skeletal and cardiac muscles, aids the immune system and is important for neurological function.

Vitamin E deficiency induces anxious feelings. Deficiency in vitamin E increased anxiety in both juvenile and adult rats. In a 2009 study, researchers discovered that they could induce anxiety behaviors in rats by making them deficient in vitamin E.

Vitamin E deficiency linked to feelings of sadness. Research has also shown that patients suffering from major feelings of sadness to have significantly lower levels of vitamin E.

Therefore, it is suggested that decline in functional status and memory loss in moderately severe cases may be reduced with supplementation. This, in turn, may allow for further independence and delayed need for a caregiver. It is also reported that the risk of developing other health concerns may be lowered by taking vitamin E and vitamin C[2].

Free radicals are formed during endurance exercise and it is suggested that vitamin E supplementation may aid in the protection against exercise-induced muscle injury[3]. It is also suggested that vitamin E may reduce fatigue and improve physical endurance.

 

Thiamine (as Thiamine Mononitrate)

Thiamine is an essential water-soluble B vitamin (B1) that plays a vital role in the support of neuronal connections and mental function. Since it is soluble in water, the body does not store a significant amount, therefore, deficiency can occur in as little as two weeks of inadequate intake. Nervous system disorders can manifest in the setting of thiamine deficiency.[4]

Studies have been conducted regarding the relationship between nutrient-poor diets and thiamine deficiency. It has been found that adolescents deficient in thiamine experienced weight loss, irritability, loss of appetite, and increased aggression.[5]

 

Riboflavin
Riboflavin is a water-soluble B vitamin that is involved in many metabolic processes including normal cell growth and function, energy production, co-enzyme production, and cellular respiration.  

Riboflavin deficiency is characterized by throat swelling, anemia, swollen tongue, dermatitis, weakness, and skin cracking.

Adequate riboflavin levels in the body may help certain individuals maintain mental clarity and a healthy mood.

Deficiency of riboflavin was associated with forgetfulness, inability to concentrate and mild confusion.[6]

 

Niacin (as Inositol Hexanicotinate, Niacinamide)

Niacin is a water-soluble B vitamin (B3) that is vital for several enzymatic reactions. There is evidence to support that niacin has neuroprotective properties and supplementation may be beneficial in certain neurological disorders. Deficiency can lead to dementia, insomnia, anxiety, and encephalopathy.[7]

A double-blind trial analyzed the use of ascorbic acid and niacin vs. a placebo in children who suffered from ADHD. There were thirty-three children involved in this study, all experiencing distressing behaviors. Thirty-two of the thirty-three subjects responded positively, however, thirty days following niacin supplementation, all subjects began experiencing similar behaviors that were displayed prior to study[8].

 

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine HCl)

Neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine and dopamine, affect emotional response and mood. The presence of pyridoxine is imperative to the development of these neurotransmitters.

Readily apparent vitamin B6 deficiency is rare, however, can present as stomatitis, cheilosis, glossitis, depression, confusion, and irritability[9].

Autistic behavior and the provision of vitamin B6 and magnesium supplementation was analyzed in a double-blind trial. The study included 52 children with autism and 11 children without. Autistic behavior was reduced when provided both magnesium and pyridoxine.[10]

 

Folate

Deficiency in folate can occur from a nutrient-poor diet, genetic disorders, alcohol consumption, and medications. There is a wide array of symptoms that can manifest from folate deficiency, including depression, confusion, anemia, and fatigue.[11].

 

Vitamin B12 (as Methylcobalamin)

Vitamin B12 is essential for the integrity and function of the nervous system and nerve tissue. Symptoms of B12 deficiency include seizures, hypotonia, microcephaly, developmental delay, fatigue, tingling, and other physiological and nerve symptoms[12].

Supplementation enhances cerebral and cognitive functions.  Adolescents who have vitamin B12 deficiency develop signs of cognitive changes.

Methylcobalamin and cyanocobalamin are both forms of vitamin B12, however, they are differentiated by one molecule: a methyl group in methylcobalamin and a cyanide group in cyanocobalamin. Cyanocobalamin is not found naturally but rather is a chemically synthesized. Once cyanocobalamin is ingested, the body quickly converts it to methylcobalamin, as the methyl compound is readily used in the body.

When compared to cyanocobalamin, research has found that the use of methylcobalamin will provide the body with vitamin B12 for longer periods of time and at higher concentrations. Despite this evidence, cyanocobalamin is more commonly found in multivitamins and B12 supplements. This could be due to the fact that synthesizing cyanocobalamin is cheaper than making or obtaining methylcobalamin.

Cyanocobalamin isn’t something nature ever intended your body to deal with – it exists only as a chemical synthesized in laboratories. It doesn’t occur naturally in any living organism.

Case study: a 22 year old female with bipolar type 1 developed characteristics of pseudodementia. She was initially treated with antidepressants, however, presented with recurrence of cognitive impairment. She was found to have macrocytic anemia and was placed on a vitamin B12 and folate regimen. It was noted that her symptoms had drastically resolved after vitamin supplementation[13].

 

Biotin

Also known as Vitamin B7, is a water soluble vitamin used by the body to help convert food into energy.

A study investigated the health effects of a biotin deficient diet on four normal subjects for ten weeks and found that the deficiency group developed lethargy, anorexia, depression, and fatigue. When biotin levels were restored, these symptoms resolved[14].

 

Pantothenic Acid (as Calcium-D-Pantothenate)

Also known as Vitamin B-5, Calcium-D-Pantothenate is the most biologically active and stable form of Vitamin B-5 produced synthetically from pantothenic acid.

Vitamin B-5 is used by the body to support many nervous system functions.

It is also known as the “anti-stress” vitamin because of the important role it plays in maintaining the proper function of the adrenal glands. Hallmark symptoms of deficiency include: insomnia, depression, irritability, and fatigue. Adequate intake of Vitamin B-5 is necessary to support overall health and prevent illness[15].

A study evaluated the effects of a diet lacking pantothenic acid on male volunteers and found that they became irritable and argumentative. Other observed adverse effects included: dizziness, extreme fatigue, sleepiness, stomach upset, hypotension, and rapid heart rate.

 

Choline (as Choline Bitartate, CDP [Cytidine diphosphate] Choline Sodium)

Choline is an essential nutrient that is known for its cognitive improving properties. The salt form of choline is known as choline bitartate. The reported effects of choline bitartate supplements include: improved mental stimulation, cognition, and memory.

Several animal studies have been conducted regarding the importance of choline for brain development.[16] All studies that were reviewed, concluded that choline is imperative for the development and function of the brain[17]; important for cognitive performance, especially in the elderly[18]; and is required for adequate development of memory in infants and children.

Another function of choline is to aid in the production and release of acetylcholine, known as the “learning transmitter”[19]. This neurotransmitter is vital for learning and memory, stimulates your brain, increases your level of alertness, and provides more “mental energy”. Your brain can also increase production of acetylcholine if acetylcholine function is interfered by other stimulants[20].

 

Calcium (as Calcium Carbonate and Calcium Amino Acid Chelate)

Calcium is the most plentiful mineral in the body that has a key role in the proper function of the central nervous system.  

Calcium carbonate is found naturally (limestone) and is used as a calcium supplement. 

Calcium amino acid chelate is a form of calcium that is guaranteed neutral, pure, stable and is noted to be as organic as the mineral found in plants. This form of calcium is produced with a specialized technology by binding one calcium molecule to two amino acid molecules. It can easily be absorbed as the molecular weight is such that it is able to pass through the intestinal wall.

Calcium amino acid chelate reduces fatigue, supports pH regulation, bone/tooth formation, aids in vitamin and mineral metabolism, and promotes proper muscle and nerve function. In addition, Calcium helps the brain use the amino acid tryptophan to manufacture melatonin, which induces sleep.

In a study reviewed, calcium level was compared in children with ADHD vs controls (normal children). Calcium levels were obtained via urine, plasma, erythrocytes, and hair. Children with ADHD were found to have a significant calcium deficiency and noted that supplementation was required.[21]

Case report: Four autistic children, with noted hypocalciuria, experienced self-induced injury to their eyes. After calcium supplementation was provided, three of the four children quit poking their eyes.[22]

 

Iron (as Iron Amino Acid Chelate)

Iron is an essential micronutrient responsible for carrying oxygen around the body as an element of hemoglobin.

Contrary to ferrous sulfate which can be toxic, iron amino acid chelates are safer and more bioavailable reducing potential side effects and enhancing absorption.

Iron deficiency can cause symptoms including extreme fatigue, hair loss, headache, heart palpitations, and restless leg syndrome.

 

Phosphorus (as Phosphorus Amino Acid Chelate)
Phosphorus works hand-in-hand with calcium to build strong bones. The right amount of each is necessary for sufficient bone health.

Phosphorus plays an integral role in cell membrane integrity, nucleic acid structure, energy production, cellular repair, protein synthesis, digestion, and hormonal balance.

A phosphorus deficiency, also known as hypophosphatemia, can cause fatigue, soft bones, joint pain, and muscle weakness.

A mineral with an amino acid chelate (bonding of ions) improves absorption and availability of the mineral. 

 

Iodine (from Kelp)

Iodine is required for the synthesis of thyroid hormones..

Kelp is an excellent source of iodine and is used frequently to replenish iodine stores and intellectual disability[23].

 

Magnesium (as Magnesium Amino Acid Chelate)

Magnesium saturates heart and brain tissue more so than other organ tissues. Magnesium plays a central role in calcium absorption, migraine prevention, heart health, and energy production.

Magnesium deficiency is characterized by tics, muscle cramping, seizures, anxiety, mental disturbances, infertility, insomnia, sensitivity to noise, and irritability[24].

In an observational study, parents of autistic children provided approximately 4000 completed questionnaires providing a rating on a variety of treatments their autistic children had received. High dose magnesium and B6 received the highest ratings[25].

In a separate observational study, levels of magnesium were tested in the serum, hair, and red blood cells of 116 children with ADHD. The researchers found that a magnesium deficiency was present in 95% of the ADHD children. The researchers also reported a correlation between distractibility and level of magnesium deficiency[26].

 

Zinc (as Zinc Amino Acid Chelate)
Zinc is an important mineral necessary to support the immune systems regular functions. It also helps facilitate protein and DNA synthesis, fuel the activity of hundreds of enzymes, cell growth, carbohydrate metabolism, and wound healing.

Zinc deficiency can result in alopecia, skin sores, diarrhea, reduced appetite, decreased wound healing ability, emotional disorders and irritability[27].

 

Selenium (as Selenium Amino Acid Chelate)

Selenium is an essential mineral stored primarily in skeletal muscle. This mineral aids in the production of antioxidant enzymes to prevent cell damage by neutralizing free radicals. Some research has concluded that selenium may help prevent certain cancers and protect the body from the toxic effects of heavy metals.

A Lancet article published in 2000 by Rayman et al. noted that selenium deficiencies have been linked to adverse mood states[28].

A Biological Psychiatry article published in 1996 by Hawkes et al. also reported depressed moods in study subjects with low levels of selenium[29].

Benton et al. reported in a 1991 Biological Psychiatry article that subjects who took 100 mcg of selenium had decreased anxiety and better moods as opposed to the low-selenium group which reported higher levels of anxiety, depression, and tiredness[30].

 

Copper (as Copper Amino Acid Chelate)

Copper is an essential mineral that enables the formation of red blood cells which carry oxygen to the rest of the body. Copper also aids in iron absorption and is integral in maintaining healthy bones, nerves, the immune system, and blood vessels. 

Copper deficiency is relatively uncommon but can cause fatigue, osteoporosis, anemia, arthritis, and poor immune system function.

 

Manganese (as Manganese Amino Acid Chelate)

An essential mineral that is found in several foods including seeds, whole grains, nuts, legumes, and leafy greens. It aids in the production of bone building enzymes, and functions as a co-enzyme in numerous metabolic pathways in the body. Manganese also supports normal development, nervous system integrity, and the formation of blood clotting factors.

 

Chromium (as Chromium Nicotinate Glycinate Chelate)

Chromium is an essential mineral that plays an important role in the insulin signaling pathway which helps to balance glucose metabolism to provide a sustained level of energy.

Symptoms of chromium deficiency include fatigue and trouble concentrating.

Studies have also shown chromium to act as a transporter that assists the amino acid tryptophan across the blood-brain barrier to be converted into serotonin which may provide a benefit for ailments such as Tourette’s Syndrome and depression.

Chromium Nicotinate Glycinate Chelate is a superior form of the mineral chromium.

 

Molybdenum (as Molybdenum Amino Acid Chelate)

Classified as a metallic element, Molybdenum is essential in trace amounts for plant, animal, and human health. This element participates in the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats by serving as an essential cofactor for specific enzymes. 

 

Potassium (as Potassium Amino Acid Chelate)

Potassium serves primarily as an electrolyte in the body. It plays a critical role in maintaining normal heart, skeletal, and smooth muscle tissue function.

Potassium deficiency can cause several symptoms including: poor appetite, tetany, confusion, comma, vomiting, fatigue, heart arrhythmias, paralysis, and parethesia. Sudden death during episodes of prolonged fasting, anorexia, and starvation are frequently associated with heart failure secondary to potassium deficiency.

 

DL-Phenylalanine

DL-Phenylalanine is a combination of D-Phenylalanine and L-Phenylalanine, two forms of Phenylalanine with different effects. DL-Phenylalanine is used frequently to treat mild depression and other mood disorders as well as pain[32].

The “D” form of Phenylalanine has been shown to reduce physical discomfort and pain, as where the “L” form is used to enhance mood and alleviate feelings of depression[33].[34]

Dietary supplements containing phenylalanine cause alertness and arousal.

 

Alpha Glycerylphosphorylcholine (GPC)

Alpha-GPC is a choline-containing phospholipid that is used for its cognitive enhancing properties. 

 

Inositol Hexanicotinate
May help widen blood vessels and therefore improve blood flow in conditions causing compromised circulation. Inositol Hexanicotinate is also added to niacin supplements to minimize flushing effects.  It has been shown to treat depression and panic attacks.

 

Citrus Bioflavonoids

Bioflavonoids are powerful phytonutrients that have been shown to enhance and prolong the actions of Vitamin C. These compounds also contribute significant antioxidant benefits. 

Through the antioxidant mechanisms of citrus bioflavonoids, neutralized free radicals may reduce systemic inflammation and reduce risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease and cancer. 

 

Glutamine

Glutamine is considered a conditionally essential amino acid which means its levels are increased when it is required by the body. 

This amino acid saturates the central nervous system and is involved in many metabolic pathways. The primary role of glutamine in the brain is to act as a precursor of amino acid based neurotransmitters and helps with focus, concentration and memory[35].

 

Grape Seed Extract

Some studies have shown that grape seed extract may reduce swelling, ease symptoms associated with venous insufficiency and reduce systolic blood pressure. 

 

L-Methionine
L-Methionine is classified as an essential amino acid meaning that it cannot be produced by the body.

Methionine is helpful in treating may mood disorders including depression. It facilitates the production of neurotransmitters in the brain.

Methionine functions as a powerful antioxidant which can deactivate harmful free radicals. It also supports immune system function by increasing levels of other beneficial amino acids. 

 

Coenzyme Q10

Also known as CoQ10, this compound is a powerful antioxidant used in nearly every cell in the body. Studies have shown that CoQ10 may reduce blood pressure, improve symptoms of congestive heart failure, enhance recovery of numerous heart surgeries, and improve cellular energy.

 

Boron (as Boron Amino Acid Chelate)

Boron is a trace mineral with a host of important roles in the human body. It is required by plants, animals, and humans. It is crucial for supporting bone growth and maintenance, reducing inflammation, supporting wound healing, increasing levels of antioxidant enzymes, protecting against oxidative stress, enhancing the brains electrical activity, short-term memory, cognitive performance.[36]

Vanadium (as Vanadium Amino Acid Chelate)

Vanadium is an essential trace mineral with multiple functions in the human body. A vanadium complex demonstrated promising effects in clinical tests. Furthermore, studies in animals have revealed promising results with vanadium based compounds in the treatment of neuronal and cardiac disorders, as well as  miscellaneous infections.  

 

Lycopene

Lycopene is a naturally occurring pigment that gives red fruits and vegetables their color. It is a potent antioxidant capable of neutralizing damaging free radicals that cause damage to cells.

 

Nickel (as Nickel Amino Acid Chelate)

Nickel is thought to be most concentrated in nucleic acids, primarily RNA which contain genetic information. It is also thought to be involved in protein structure and in the breakdown and utilization of blood sugar.

 

[1] Effects of Oral Vitamin C Supplementation on Anxiety in Students: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

[2] Effect of vitamin E and memantine on functional decline in health disease: the TEAM-AD VA cooperative randomized trial.

[3] Vitamin E supplementation and endurance exercise: are there benefits?

[4] Winston AP, et al, Int J Eat Disord 2000 Dec;28(4):451-4

[5] Lonsdale D., Shamburger R. Red cell transketolase as an indicator of nutritional deficiency. Am J Clin Nutr 33(2):205-11, 1980.

[6] Peterman RA., et al., Current status of vitamin therapy in nervous and mental disease. J clin Nutr 2(1):11-21,1954

[7] Gelenberg A.J. Psychiatric Disorders, in DM Paige, Ed. Clinical Nutrition, Second Edition. St. Louis, C.V. Mosby, 1988

[8] Hoffer A. Vitamin B3 dependent child. Schiophrenia 3:107-13, 1971

[9] Maclaren D.S., Clincal manifestations of nutritional disorders, in M.E. Shils, VR Young, Eds. Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease, Seventh Edition. Philadelphia, Lea & Febiger, 1988.

[10] Barthelemy C., et al., Behavioral and biological effects of oral magnesium, vitamin B6 and combined magnesium-B6 administration in autistic children. Mag Bull 3:150-3, 1981

[11] Reid S.D., West Indian Med J 2000 Dec;49(4):347-8

[12] Biancheri R, et al, Neuropediatrics 2001 Feb;32(1):14-22

[13] Reid S.D., West Indian Med J 2000 Dec;49(4):347-8

[14] Sydenstriker VP., Et al., Observations on the egg white injury in man. JAMA 118:1199-1200, 1940

[15] Tahiliani A.G., Beinlich C.J.: Pantothenic acid in health and disease. Vitam Horm 1991;46:165-228

[16] The fetal origins of memory: the role of dietary choline in optimal brain development, SH Zeisel, J Pediatr. 2006 Nov;149(5 Suppl):S131-6

[17] Choline: needed for normal development of memory, SH Zeisel, J Am Coll Nutr. 2000 Oct;19(5 Suppl):528S-531S

[18] Choline and choline-related compounds are associated with cognitive performance and cerebrovascular pathology in older adults, A Roe et al., April 2014, The FASEB Journal,vol. 28 no. 1, Supplement 135.5, available from http://www.fasebj.org/content/28/1_Supplement/135.5

[19] The Role of Acetylcholine in Learning and Memory, M.E. Hasselmo, Curr Opin Neurobiol. 2006 Dec; 16(6): 710–715, Published online 2006 Sep 29. doi:10.1016, available from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2659740/

[20] The effect of central stimulant drugs on acetylcholine release from rat cerebral cortex, B.A. Hemsworth, M.J. Neal, Br J Pharmacol. 1968 Nov; 34(3): 543–55, available from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1703481/

 

[21] Kozielec T. et al., Deficiency of certain trace elements in children with hyperactivity. J Psychiatr Pol 28(3):345-53, 1994

[22] Coleman M., Clinical Presentation of Patients with Autism and Hypocalciuria. Developmental Brain Dysfunction 7:63-70, 1994

[23] Treatment  hypothyroidism to Iodine Deficiency Using Daily Powdered Kelp in Patients Receiving Long-term Total Enteral Nutrition.

[24] Durlach J, Clinical aspects of chronic magnesium deficiency, in MS Seeling, Ed Magnesium in Health and Disease. New York, Spectrum Publications, 1980

[25] Rimland B., Controversies in the treatment of autistic disorders: Vitamin And drug therapy. J Child Neurol 3 Suppl:S68-72, 1988

[26] Kozielec T. et al., Assessment of magnesium levels in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) Magnes Res 10(2):143-8, 1997

[27] Prasad AS. Clinical manifestations of zinc deficiency. Nutr Rev 41(7):197,1983

[28] Rayman M.P., “The importance of selenium to human health”. Lancet 2000 Jul 15;356(9225):233- 41

[29] Hawkes WC; Hornbostel L Effects of dietary selenium on mood in healthy men living in a metabolic research unit. Biol Psychiatry, 1996 Jan, 39:2, 121-8

[30] Benton D, Cook R. The impact of selenium supplementation on mood. Bio Psychiatry 29(11):1092- 8, 1991

[31] Keller JN et al. Mitochondrial manganese superoxide dismutase prevents neural apoptosis and reduces ischemic brain injury: suppression of peroxynitrite production, lipid peroxidation, and mitochondrial dysfunction. J Neurosci, 1998 Jan, 18:2, 687-97

[32] Analgesic effectiveness of D-phenylalanine in chronic pain patients, NE Walsh et al., Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 1986 Jul;67(7):436-9

[33] Effects on mood of acute phenylalanine/tyrosine depletion in healthy women, M Leyton et al., Neuropsychopharmacology. 2000 Jan;22(1):52-63

[34] L-Phenylalanine, PubChem, Open Chemistry Database, retrieved on 8 December, 2016

[35] Roles of glutamine in neurotransmission. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22018046

[36] Penland JG Dietary boron, brain function, and cognitive performance. Environ Health Perspect, 1994 Nov, 102 Suppl 7:, 65-72