C3G + Lycopene
Cyanidin-3-Glucoside, commonly known as C3G, is a prominent member of the anthocyanin family. These are water-soluble pigments responsible for the vibrant red, purple, and blue hues found in many plant foods, particularly abundant in blackcurrants, blackberries, elderberries, acai, purple corn, and black rice.
C3G is recognized as a potent antioxidant, effectively neutralizing various damaging free radicals within the body's aqueous environments. It also exhibits significant anti-inflammatory activity, modulating key signaling pathways involved in the inflammatory response. Studies suggest potential benefits for metabolic health, including improving insulin sensitivity, as well as cardiovascular advantages like enhancing blood vessel function, and possible support for vision health.
Lycopene, is a bright red carotenoid pigment, which is fat-soluble. It's most famously associated with tomatoes, especially when cooked or processed (like in sauces or paste, which increases bioavailability), but is also found in watermelon, pink grapefruit, and guava.
Lycopene is celebrated as one of the most powerful antioxidants among the carotenoids, particularly effective at quenching singlet oxygen, a highly reactive form of oxygen. It operates primarily within lipid environments like cell membranes. Like C3G, it possesses anti-inflammatory properties and is strongly linked to cardiovascular health, notably protecting LDL cholesterol from oxidative damage (a key step in plaque formation) and supporting healthy blood pressure. It's also extensively studied for its potential role in cancer prevention, especially prostate cancer, and helps protect the skin from UV damage from within.
The synergy between C3G and Lycopene is powerful. Their differing solubilities mean they likely exert antioxidant protection in different cellular compartments: C3G in water-based areas and Lycopene within fatty membranes and lipoproteins, providing broader overall protection against oxidative stress. Their combined anti-inflammatory actions, working through different mechanisms, may also lead to a more significant dampening effect on inflammation.
In terms of cardiovascular health, their benefits are complementary as well: C3G's potential to improve endothelial function and blood vessel flexibility pairs well with Lycopene's ability to protect LDL cholesterol from oxidation, addressing different dimensions of atherosclerosis development. This combination offers more robust support for heart and blood vessel health than either compound alone.
Additionally, combining these potent phytonutrients supports overall cellular protection. By addressing oxidative stress and inflammation comprehensively across different cellular environments, C3G and Lycopene together contribute synergistically to maintaining cellular health and potentially reducing the risk factors associated with various chronic diseases.
2-3 times a day is a good dose.
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