Frequently Asked Questions

Essential Fatty Acids

Q. What is enteric coating?

A. Enteric coating is a barrier applied to softgels that controls the location in the digestive system where it is absorbed. This is used to prevent the aftertaste or "fish burps" by releasing the contents in the large intestine rather than in the stomach.

Q. Should I use flax seed oil or fish oil?

A. Flax seed oil and fish oils are the two richest sources of Omega-3 essential fatty acids.

Flax seed oil is a source of ALA (Alpha-Linolenic Acid) which is an Omega-3 fatty acid in raw material form. Once consumed, the liver converts the ALA into two other key Omega-3 compounds: EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid). Flax seed oil is an excellent plant source of Omega-3 fatty acids, especially suitable to those who do not consume fish products.

Fish oil provides Omega-3 fatty acids in readily available forms of EPA and DHA. The body does not have to convert these oils in order to able able to utilize them.

Q. Are there any side effects or contraindications with taking essential fatty acids?

A. Essential fatty acids are from food sources so generally there are no side effects. Burping and fish aftertaste can occur in some people who use fish oils. If you experience this, try the holista Omega-3 Double Strength Enteric Coated product; it will help alleviate this effect.

Should you have any specific health concerns, consult your health care practitioner or physician before changing your dietary habits.

Q. Are essential fatty acids important for children?

A. Children require the omega-3 fatty acids called EPA and DHA for healthy physical and mental development. Many children today suffer from health conditions related to EPA and DHA deficits. Examples include ADD/ADHA, aggressive/hostile behavior, and bronchial asthma. Also, adequate levels of EPA and DHA contribute to visual and cognitive development and reduce risk of childhood Type 2 diabetes. Supplementation with EPA and DHA over 3 to 12 months may improve the quality of life for children with cystic fibrosis, and lessen hyperactivity that may accompany autism.

Q. What is CLA?

A. Conjugated Linoleic Acid, or CLA, is an essential fatty acid that occurs naturally in most meats and dairy products but can also be derived from natural safflower oil. Holista CLA inhibits an enzyme that breaks down fat from our diets called lipoprotein lipase. Once fat is broken down, it is stored and by suppressing this enzyme, CLA helps reduce the amount of fat that is deposited and stored in our bodies. Combined with a balanced diet and exercise, CLA can help you reduce body fat and increase lean muscle mass.

Q. What’s the difference between cod liver oil and other fish oils?

A. As the name indicates this oil comes from the livers of cod fish. Other fish oils are derived generally from the whole fish. Also, cod liver oil is most often used as a very rich source of vitamins A and D, as well as lesser amounts of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. Cod liver oil contributes to strong bones and teeth, as well as growth and repair of skin. Vitamin A prevents night blindness and is known to promote healing by stimulating the immune system, while vitamin D is required for the absorption and utilization of calcium. Some people use cod liver oil to ease joint pain and stiffness of arthritis.

Q. How does Omega-3 Healthy Skin promote healthier skin?

A. Omega-3 Healthy Skin promotes skin health and beauty by reducing inflammation and the appearance of aging, and providing antioxidant protection from environmental and sun damage. Fish oil, lycopene, bilberry, vitamin C and vitamin E are all research-proven ingredients that provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support to decrease cellular damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) exposure.

EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) from fish oil inhibits the production of inflammatory chemicals and helps improve skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and eczema. EPA also prevents UV damage and helps moisturize the skin

Lycopene is a natural carotenoid and the primary antioxidant that our skin uses for protection against UV radiation

Ascorbyl palmitate is a fat-soluble form of vitamin C shown to be more effective in preventing skin cancer than ascorbic acid. It also plays an important role in skin rejuvenation

Bilberry extract contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory polyphenols that provides foundational support for healthy radiant skin

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that also protects the skin from the sun and from other free radical damage

Health Kits

Q. How often can I use the Body Clean Detox Kit?: A. Cleanses, such as Holista’s Body Clean Detox, are suggested 2-3 times per years. A good way to remember is when the seasons change, like spring and fall. The Clear Digest product helps to improve bowel function while Milk Thistle supports liver function. There are many other ways to promote detoxification including sauna and steam rooms, gentle herbal teas (careful as some detox tea may cause bowel dependence). Follow a healthy diet with fresh water as outlined on the educational leaflet provided with the kit. For more information on how to use the kit, please feel free to contact one of our product information specialists at Holista by email or our toll free number.
Q. Can I use the head lice kit to prevent head lice?: A. Contrary to the beliefs of many, an infestation does not reflect poor hygiene or lack of cleanliness, but rather social and play habits. Unfortunately, it spreads rapidly from head to head and requires persistence to eradicate. Remember to properly clean bedding, soft toys, hats, scarves, and any other clothing that comes in contact with hair. Holista’s Tea Tree Oil Shampoo and Conditioner are gentle enough to use everyday to naturally cleanse the scalp and hair.
Q. Do the two products in Holista’s Energy Kit have any side effects?: A. Panax ginseng has very few adverse effects for most adults when used as directed. It is not suggested to be used longer than 3 months. The most common side effect is trouble sleeping. Less commonly people have menstrual problems, breast pain, increased heart rate, high or low blood pressure, headache, loss of appetite, diarrhea, itching, rash, dizziness, mood changes, vaginal bleeding, and many others. Do not use if pregnant or lactating. Consult a physician prior to use if you have diabetes, are on blood thinning medications, or antidepressants. Do not use if taking warfarin.

Royal Jelly does not seem to have any negative side effects in non-allergenic people. Individuals with a history of atopy (allergic hypersensitivity) or asthma may have reactions and should avoid using this product or consult with a physician prior to use. Do not use if you are allergic to bees or bee products.

Source:
Natural Medicine Comprehensive Database monographs for Royal Jelly and Panax Ginseng.
Tyler’s Herbs of Choice, by Robbers James and E. Tyler,
Q. How long can I use each of these products in the Extra Strength Cough & Cold Kit?: A. Use Holista Extra Strength Echinacea 2500mg (as directed on the label) at the first sign of a viral infection (including the common cold) and use for 10-21 days. If symptoms persist, please contact and discuss with a physician.

Echinacea may also be useful for those particularly at risk of upper respiratory infections due to age, or due to unusual risk exposure conditions, such as teachers, physicians, healthcare workers, airline passengers and others. For Preventative use, use one capsule daily throughout the year when your immune system needs support.

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) has a very long safety record. It may be used daily or only when the first sign’s of a viral infection begin. Excessive doses of vitamin C may cause diarrhea and gastrointestinal upset. This is not serious and discontinuation of the supplement should bring normality. If symptoms persist however, please consult with a physician.
Q. I am considering buying your Menopause Kit, how do these natural supplements work?: A. Black Cohosh is used for the symptomatic treatment of menopausal complaints including hot flashes, night sweating, vaginal thinning and dryness, depressive moods, sleep disturbances, and reduced libido. The German Commission E report, (an expert committee that evaluates the safety and efficacy of phytomedicines) approves Black Cohosh for the treatment of dysmenorrhea and PMS. In Europe it has been used to treat menopausal symptoms for over 40 years.

Evening Primrose Oil provides gamma linoleic acid, which is a fatty acid in the Omega-6 essential fatty acid family. Direct GLA supplementation provides the body a more direct pathway for the body to produce prostaglandin E1 (PEG1). PEG1 has many activities in the body including relaxes blood vessels, improves circulation, lowering blood pressure, decreases inflammation response, which also can help ease arthritis.

Recommended Reading: No More HRT: Menopause Treat the Cause. Dr. Karen Jensen, ND and Lorna Vanderhaeghe, BSc. 2002.
Q. How do I use the two products in the Weight Loss Kit?: A. We recommend that most people can use both CLA and Green Tea Extract together, as per the respective directions and precautions, as compliments to diet and exercise.

Proper nutrition and regular exercise should be the foundation of every program for health, as they can have an enormous impact on our physical and mental well being. A healthy balanced diet must include nutrients that allow the body to grow and to develop, for it to be strong and vital and most importantly for it to resist infection and prevent degeneration
Green Tea Extract 200mg: Use 2 capsules, 3 times daily, 30 minutes before to meals or as directed by a physician. Dosing is equivalent to approximately 3 cups of green tea per day.

CLA 1000mg: 1-2 softgels, 3 times per daily before meals.

Herbal Supplements

Q. What is bilberry used for?: A. Bilberry has long been recommended for enhancing vision, especially night vision due to its high anthocyanin content. Anthocyanins are plant chemicals from dark red, blue and purple plants that have high antioxidant capacity.
Q. I’m only 35, but my mother suggested I take Black Cohosh because I experience mood swings and have trouble sleeping. Should I take it?: A. Black Cohosh helps balance hormones and the symptoms you describe are often hormone-related, however you should consult a health professional if these symptoms are severe or persistent to be sure they are not from other causes. Peri-menopause can start as early as 30 years of age for some women and black cohosh is a safe trusted way to minimize menopause symptoms. It is not recommended for women who are trying to conceive.
Q. What is Devil’s Claw used for?: A. Devil’s Claw has been used for centuries to ease the pain of rheumatoid arthritis and other pain related to or caused by inflammation. In one study, standardized Devil’s Claw was as effective as the drug Vioxx in reducing pain, without side effects.
Q. I’ve heard that echinacea doesn’t work? Is this true?: A. No. However there are many qualities of echinacea supplements. Holista uses Canadian-grown whole herb that is processed fresh. Dried herb can lose up to 80% of its active ingredients! Choose standardized Echinacea from Holista and you will get the results possible with this immune-boosting herb.

Echinacea 500mg
Echinacea Healthy Size 500mg
Echinacea Extra Strength 2000mg
Q. I’ve heard Ginkgo is good for the brain. Is that true?: A. Research suggests that ginkgo biloba helps improve circulation, especially in the fine capillaries (the smallest blood vessels). This helps not only brain function, but also vision and circulation to the extremities.
Q. I’ve heard that green tea extract can help me lose weight. Is that true?: A. New studies show that green tea extract can help with weight loss as it speeds up metabolism, without the side effects that may be experienced with high caffeine “fat burners”. The L-theanine in green tea is used to reduce stress and this can also help a person avoid stress-related overeating.
Q. Do I take Oregano Oil internally or externally?: A. Oregano Oil is used both topically and as an ingested herbal. It is a potent antioxidant, antibacterial and antimicrobial herb. It has anti-inflammatory properties making it helpful as a topical treatment for acne and rosacea, and can fight fungus and candida albicans. Do not exceed the recommended dosage when taking it internally.
Q. My dad swears that Saw Palmetto keeps him from having to pee in the night. What does it do?: A. Your dad is not the only man who swears by saw palmetto. The berries and extract from this tropical plant have been traditionally used, with excellent results, to treat symptoms of prostate enlargement. The phytosterols and fatty acids in Saw Palmetto berry extract are shown to help relax the prostate and slow or prevent enlargement and inflammation.
Q. I have low energy and think I may have toxic overload. Is there a simple natural way to detoxify, without fasting or some complicated ritual?: A. You should have some tests done by a medical practitioner to be sure that toxicity is the cause of your low energy. If it is then there are several simple, natural solutions. Holista has an excellent Milk Thistle extract to support liver health, and the herbalists at Holista have also developed SM-TOX 80™ which contains 250mg of standardized Milk Thistle extract plus Dandelion root powder and Turmeric.
Dandelion and Turmeric are both considered liver detoxifiers as they stimulate the flow of bile. Dandelion is also a diuretic, flushing excess water from the body and Turmeric aids circulation and breakdown of fats (which can hang onto toxins). Together these herbs make up an excellent herbal supplement for liver and gallbladder health and these organs are key to overall health and energy.
Q. I’m on a prescription anti-depressant. Can I take St. John’s Wort too?: A. St. John’s Wort is an effective natural herb for sleep disorders, anxiety and mild depressive symptoms. However you should consult your health care provider if you are taking any prescription medications, including contraceptives, HIV-1 protease inhibitors, non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, immuno-suppressants, anticoagulant drugs, digoxin, theophylline, serotonergic antidepressants, migraine therapies, SSRIs/prescription antidepressants, and/or anti-epilepsy drugs. The effects of such drugs may be altered by the addition of an herbal or nutritional supplement.

Joint Care

Q. What is the source of Celadrin?: A. Celadrin is made from a proprietary blend of esterified fatty acids derived from bovine tallow oil.
Q. Is Celadrin safe?: A. Yes, Celadrin is a very safe mix of fatty acids with no known or reported adverse side effects or reactions.
Q. Are Celadrin softgels or cream better?: A. Both oral and topical applications of Celadrin are equally effective in reducing pain and inflammation.
Q. Why mix Celadrin and Glucosamine?: A. Celadrin provides anti-inflammatory support and Glucosamine speeds cartilage building. The combination is promising for anyone with joint pain and immobility.
Q. What is the source of Glucosamine Sulfate?: A. Glucosamine sulfate is traditionally sourced from the hard shells of shellfish.

Allergic reaction to Glucosamine has not been reported as a practical concern, most likely because the allergens are found in the meat or protein of the fish and the extraction process is able to denature any extraneous flesh protein. However, it must be recognized that those allergic to shellfish may sometimes display profound sensitivity where it is not expected.

If there is concern over possible allergic reaction, especially if anaphylactic reactions are possible, please consult with your health care provider before commencing use.
Q. Do Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate contain sodium?: A. Glucosamine Sulfate contains sodium salt as a stabilizer to prevent problematic moisture absorption at the initial stage of production.
Q. How long does it take for Glucosamine & Chondroitin to work?: A. The cartilage rebuilding process is slow and gradual and a minimum of 8 weeks supplementation is required before beneficial effects are seen.
Q. What does MSM stand for and what is it?: A. MSM stands for Methyl-sulfonyl-methane. It is a naturally occurring, sulfur containing organic compound that is found primarily in fresh fruits and vegetables and in every cell of the human body.
Q. Is the sulfur in MSM the same as sulfa drugs and sulfites?: A. No. Organic sulfur is a nutrient and a necessary part of natural chemical processes in the body. It should not be confused with sulfa drugs or sulfites, which are forms of inorganic sulfur. There is no need to worry of sensitivities to MSM if you have an allergy to sulfa drugs and sulfites.

Minerals

Q. Is vitamin D essential to have when supplementing with calcium?: A. Vitamin D can be made endogenously (made by the body) from sun exposure on the sun. During the fall and winter months in Canada, many people fall short of getting adequate sunlight so supplementing with vitamin D is recommended. Calcium intake, when combined with sufficient vitamin D, a healthy diet, and regular exercise, may reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis. Vitamin D stimulates the absorption of calcium. Low blood levels of vitamin D have become a widely reported concern. Adults working long hours indoors, seniors and those in care homes also spending most of their time indoors could be prone to become vitamin D deficient.
Q. Does calcium help with blood pressure?: A. High blood pressure can result from a variety of factors. One of the approaches to improving blood pressure is to incorporate an eating plan as suggested by the College of Family Physicians Canada; “The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH). The diet is rich in whole grains, fruits and vegetables, calcium, magnesium, potassium, low in salt, sugar and fat, and is consistent with Canada’s Food Guide to Healthy Eating. It has been shown to be as effective as medicines in reducing blood pressure. The DASH diet can reduce blood pressure by 11.4/5.5 mmHg in people with high blood pressure. The DASH diet plan is available at www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/heart/hbp/dash.

Increasing how much potassium rich food you eat may help lower your blood pressure, as may increasing the amount of calcium and magnesium in your diet. Talk to your family doctor about whether these changes would be good for you to make.

Potassium can be found in potatoes, bananas, squash, spinach, bran cereal, tomatoes, prunes, raisins, cantaloupe, apricots and navy beans. Magnesium can be found in green vegetables, nuts, whole grains and shellfish. Good sources of calcium include dairy products (such as milk and cheese), greens and salmon.” (Source: www.cfpc.ca)

Talk with your health care professional prior to supplementation to see if calcium supplementation is right for you!
Q. Is chromium helpful for blood sugar control?: A. Chromium is a mineral that plays an important role in glucose metabolism. When we eat carbohydrates (bread, pasta, potatoes, candy, chocolate etc!) they are broken down into smaller units called glucose. Glucose is a fast “usable” energy for the body. For glucose to enter the cell, however, it needs a hormone called insulin. Insulin is produced by the pancreas. It is well known that chromium works closely with insulin in facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells. Without chromium, insulin won’t work properly and blood sugar levels will rise. Individuals looking to address weight loss, hyperglycemia and diabetic conditions should take a closer look at this important mineral.
Q. Why is this warning added to the calcium labels?: A. “Do not use 2 hours prior to or until 4 hours after taking other medications” or “Take a few hours before or after other medications.”

Supplements that contain calcium carbonate have this precaution on their labels as stipulated by Health Canada. The concern is that calcium may slow or inhibit the intended action of the medicine. If you have concerns on how to take your prescribed medication with your dietary supplements, please review with your Doctor prior to use.
Q. Is magnesium good for the heart?: A. Magnesium helps to maintain healthy muscle function. Therefore, it is absolutely essential in the proper functioning of the heart. “Magnesium’s role in preventing heart disease and strokes is generally well accepted. In addition, there is a substantial body of knowledge demonstrating that magnesium supplementation is effective in treating a wide range of cardiovascular diseases.” (Source: The Pill Book Guide to Natural Medicines, Dr. M. Murray, N.D.)
Q. What is the source of Holista’s Selenium 200 mcg?: A. The source is yeast.

Skin Care

Q. Why would you want alpha-lipoic acid in a skin cream?: A. Alpha-Lipoic Acid (or lipoic acid) is a potent antioxidant. It can also be taken in a dietary supplement. In one study with a face cream (like Holista Restorativ Anti-Wrinkle cream), high potency lipoic acid reduced mild-to-moderate wrinkles by up to 50 percent, whereas fine lines almost disappeared. In another study, it significantly improved the appearance of certain types of scars.
Alpha Lipoic acid is less irritating than retinol-A and hydroxy acids other anti-wrinkle ingredients). Holista Restorativ Alpha-Lipoic cream is a natural, soothing, non-irritating formula, fragrance-free and with no artificial preservatives. It also contains vitamin A, natural source vitamin E and vitamin C esters to protect and repair the skin.
Q. Are Holista creams tested on animals?: A. No. While Holista applies stringent tests to all ingredients, for purity and potency, none of our topical products are tested on animals.
Q. What should I look for in a natural skin cream?: A. This depends partly on your age and skin type. As skin ages it loses elasticity and of course this contributes to wrinkling and sagging. Natural ingredients such as vitamins A and E, as well as herbal ingredients and collagen, can be valuable skin health and beauty enhancers. Holista Restorative Anti-Aging Cream contains Echinacea to help detoxify and reduce inflammation, Evening Primrose Oil as a natural moisturizer, Collagen to promote skin cell regeneration, Calendula and Chamomile which are soothing botanicals that help reduce skin inflammation, and even White tea extract which is a potent herbal antioxidant. These ingredients used topically, especially with a healthy diet and skin-supporting supplements, can soothe, strengthen, moisturize and beautify the skin. And for considerably less money than other cosmetic creams!)
Q. What is Celadrin?: A. Celadrin® is a clinically proven compound made from natural fatty acids. It has been shown to reduce inflammation and joint pain. Used as an oral supplement and also in topical creams, Celadrin® lubricates cell membranes throughout the body improving cell fluidity and elasticity. This action enhances the effectiveness of joint fluids that cushions your bones and joints, for better flexibility and mobility. Its anti-inflammatory action on cells makes it useful in general skin care and for treatment of psoriasis and other inflammation-related conditions.
Q. How does Celadrin help with joint pain?: A. Joint pain can occur when lubricating fluids are depleted. It can also be caused by inflammation. The body sends blood and fluids to a painful area and more inflammation, swelling and pain can follow. Celadrin is said to halt this cascade of inflammation and to restore cellular flexibility, helping to eliminate pain. Inflammation can stiffen cell membranes causing, or worsening, arthritis, gum disease, wrinkles, cardiovascular disease, and other ailments or conditions.
The fatty acids in Celadrin enhance cell membrane flexibility and integrity to protect the cell and to repel chemicals that can cause inflammation. The result is more efficient, elastic, permeable cell membranes.
Q. Can I use tea tree oil or tea tree oil cream if I have sensitive skin?: A. Tea tree oil is quite gentle, especially in the 20% lotion or in this antiseptic cream blended with Vitamin E. However you should definitely test a small area of skin first before using it more broadly. Many people find that Vitamin E and tea tree oil are soothing and well-tolerated. However, every person is different and you should use new topical products with caution if your skin is highly sensitive.
Q. What are the most common uses of an antiseptic cream like this one?: A. This combination of tea tree oil’s antiseptic, antibacterial and antifungal properties, and the healing effects of Vitamin E, makes this cream perfect for scraped knees and acne breakouts alike. It is used to help clean and heal minor wounds, to prevent ingrown hairs after shaving or waxing, to prevent or heal blemishes, diaper rash and insect bites, or to soothe skin after mild sunburn or minor abrasions.
Q. I’m concerned about chemical ingredients in cosmetic products. Do natural skin creams work?: A. Yes. As long as there have been mirrors, women the world over have used natural source potions such as aloe vera, chamomile, calendula and other herbals to beautify and moisturize their skin. Holista combines the best of tradition with the best of science to create effective natural creams for safe, daily use. Restorativ Vitamin E cream with Herbs includes soothing, protective antioxidant botanicals Chamomile, Calendula and Echinacea, as well as Grape Seed oil and Aloe vera to moisturize and renew dry, damaged or aging skin.

Tea Tree Oil

Q. Is it safe to use Tea Tree Oil on my cat or dog?: A. We do not recommend using Tea Tree Oil on cats and dogs. These animals appear to poorly tolerate Tea Tree Oil, leading to possible serious toxicity. Oral use in pets should also be avoided.
Q. Can I use Tea Tree Oil on my children?: A. We do not recommend using Tea Tree Oil full strength on children under 18 months of age – dilute to ½ strength.
Q. I’ve heard that tea tree oil is a good antiseptic. Is it safe?: A. Tea tree essential oil is considered to be both antiseptic (able to destroy bacteria capable of causing infection) and an anti-microbial (may destroy or prevent growth of microbes which are any tiny living things including bacteria, fungi, parasites and viruses). It is used medicinally in the treatment of many conditions, the most common being prevention or treatment of acne, fungal infections, yeast infections and a wide variety of skin conditions. It is a potent natural oil that is not meant to be taken internally. It is very safe, and useful, when used according to directions.
Tea tree oil disrupts the cell membranes of bacteria and other destructive microorganisms and disables the proteins within them, basically “de-activating” them and so they cannot multiply and cause health problems. 100% pure tea tree oil from Holista can be used directly on unbroken skin as a first aid oil, or it can be diluted with other oils.
Q. Want the antiseptic and healing power of tea tree oil, without 100% potency?: A. This gentle 20% Tea Tree Oil lotion is excellent for someone who wants gentle antiseptic and antibacterial action, rather than the high potency of 100% tea tree oil. For external use only, this lotion may help to alleviate acne, eczema and herpes simplex (cold-sores) and can be used to disinfect cuts and scrapes, or to prevent infections.
Q. Why would I want to use Tea Tree Oil shampoo?: A. If you have an itchy scalp, dandruff or eczema, or if you just want squeaky clean fresh smelling hair, Tea Tree Oil Shampoo is an excellent choice. It is also an important part of any head lice treatment program to ensure elimination of these annoying invaders. Holista Tea Tree Oil Shampoo contains 2% pure tea tree oil, in a fragrance-free, hypo-allergenic shampoo base. It may be used regularly to help relieve scalp conditions such as dandruff and eczema.

Tea Tree Oil Conditioner
Companion to Tea Tree Oil Shampoo
Holista Tree Oil Conditioner contains 2% pure tea tree oil, in a fragrance-free, hypo-allergenic conditioner base. It may be used regularly to help relieve scalp conditions such as dandruff and eczema and it is an important part of any program to treat and prevent head lice infestation.

Vitamins

Q. I’m thinking about getting pregnant. When should I start to take folic acid?: A. What is folic acid and Why Does Your Baby Need it?
“Folic acid is a naturally occurring B vitamin that helps a baby's neural tube - the part of a developing baby that becomes the brain and spinal cord - develop properly. It must be taken before and during early pregnancy when the neural tube is developing.”

“Folic acid works, but it only works if taken before and during the first few weeks of pregnancy, when the neural tube is developing into the brain and spinal cord. When the neural tube does not close properly, a baby is born with a very serious birth defect called a neural tube defect (NTD). About 3,000 pregnancies are affected by NTDs each year in the United States. If all women took adequate folic acid before conception and during pregnancy, 50 to 70 percent of NTDs could be prevented.”

Source: http://www.marchofdimes.com/pnhec/173_769.asp

Health Canada States;
“Current knowledge suggests that women should be particularly attentive to their intake of three nutrients: iron, folate and calcium. Available data on dietary intakes of women of childbearing years report average calcium and iron intakes below the Recommended Nutrient Intakes (RNI) (2,3,4). As for folate, present evidence suggests that a daily supplement containing folic acid (a form of folate) taken during the periconceptional period is expected to reduce the risk of neural tube defects (NTDs) (5,6,7,8,9,10) (see p. 28). Women who have not had a previous NTD-affected pregnancy should be advised, in addition to eating a healthy diet according to Canada's Food Guide to Healthy Eating, to take a daily supplement containing 400 mcg of folic acid before becoming pregnant and continuing through the early weeks of pregnancy.”

Source: Health Canada, Prenatal Nutrition National Guidelines.
Q. What does B50 mean?: A. Holista B50 means that it provides the full range of B vitamins at the dose of 50mg each. The exception is for folic acid which is 1 mg, vitamin B 12 at 50 mcg and biotin at 50 mcg.

MEDEssentials

Q. What are the benefits of MEDEssentials Cholesterol?: A. MedEssentials Cholesterol is particularly designed to protect cardiovascular health by reversing nutrient deficiencies shown to occur with cholesterol lowering medication. This formula does not interfere with the action of cholesterol medications, but supports the body’s own mechanisms for cardiovascular health.
Q. Who can benefit from MEDEssentials Stomach Acid?: A. Supplementation is recommended for anyone using antacid medications.