California-based Metagenics has introduced Zinlori 75, a dietary supplement containing Lonza's PepZin GI ingredient, onto the healthcare market, after a new distribution deal with the Swiss firm.
Zinlori 75, which Metagenics says has been studied extensively for its ability to enhance gastric mucosal health and interact with Helicobacter pylori, is said to help to relieve gastric discomforts such as occasional heartburn and indigestion, mild nausea, upset stomach, and bloating. Approximately 25 to 40 per cent of Americans suffer from indigestion, resulting in symptoms such as heartburn or upset stomach.
Metagenics signed a deal with Swiss chemicals company Lonza earlier this month to market the patented PepZin GI in Europe and the US. The supplement has been used by healthcare practitioners in Japan since 1994, but Metagenics is the first and exclusive provider of this beneficial zinc-carnosine complex to healthcare professionals in North America.
The Metagenics supplement is designed to help minimize free radical damage to gastric mucosal cells by providing powerful antioxidant protection, as well as helping to support the gastric mucosal lining by promoting healthy mucus secretion. Zinlori 75 may also inhibit damaging cytokine expression in gastric mucosal cells without inhibiting prostaglandin production, and provide other GI-supportive benefits, such as promoting a healthy balance of microflora, said Metagenics in a statement.
Reportedly the first natural, drug-free version in North America to provide a 75-mg dose of zinc-carnosine, two tablets daily provide 150 mg - the optimum clinical dose supported by scientific research and successful clinical outcomes. It is available exclusively through physicians and other licensed healthcare practitioners and comes in tablets designed to break down quickly and absorb easily in the stomach. This releases the zinc-carnosine to the site of action in the gastric mucosa where it is most needed, explained Metagenics.
"By providing the optimum dose of zinc-carnosine in just two tablets of Zinlori 75, this exceptional mineral chelate has been shown to promote gastric health three times more effectively than zinc sulfate or L-carnosine alone," said Jeffrey S. Bland, PhD, president and chief science officer of Metagenics. "Zinc-carnosine is the preferred molecular form of zinc for GI health," he added.
Metagenics was recently named Corporation of the Year for 2003 by the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) at their annual national convention. The award was presented in recognition of Metaganics' support of the naturopathic profession including: its funding of state licensing efforts - especially the California Association of Naturopathic Physicians; the commitment to the visiting elders program at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Physicians; its development of high quality, innovative natural products; and providing state-of-the-art educational seminars with leaders in natural medicine.