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Spectra Total ORAC Blend

Also known as: Spectra Total ORAC Blend, Spectra™, Spectra Total ORAC, ORAC 5.0 blend

Overview

Spectra Total ORAC Blend is a proprietary multi-ingredient dietary supplement composed of various fruit, vegetable, and herb extracts and concentrates. It is specifically formulated to provide comprehensive antioxidant support and is standardized for high total antioxidant capacity (TAC), typically at least 40,000 μmol trolox equivalent (TE) per gram. This blend includes ingredients such as broccoli, onion, tomato, spinach, kale, coffee fruit, acerola, camu camu, acai, mangosteen, green tea, apple, turmeric, garlic, basil, oregano, cinnamon, elderberry, blackcurrant, blueberry, sweet cherry, blackberry, chokeberry, raspberry, and bilberry. Its primary application is to reduce oxidative stress and potentially improve markers of inflammation and athletic performance. While research is still developing, early studies suggest acute effects on oxidative stress markers in healthy adults. It is categorized as a dietary antioxidant supplement and a multi-ingredient botanical blend.

Benefits

Spectra Total ORAC Blend primarily offers significant antioxidant support. A double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study demonstrated that a single 100 mg dose of Spectra™ significantly reduced oxidative stress markers in healthy adults, indicating its acute efficacy in combating free radicals. The blend is standardized to a high antioxidant activity of at least 40,000 μmol TE/g, reflecting its potent free radical scavenging capabilities. While direct human evidence is limited, mechanistic and preclinical data suggest potential secondary benefits, including anti-inflammatory effects and improved athletic performance. However, robust human trials are needed to confirm these effects and quantify their clinical significance. The supplement may be beneficial for individuals seeking to reduce oxidative stress, but specific population-based benefits (e.g., for athletes or the elderly) require further research. The acute effects on oxidative stress markers have been observed within hours of ingestion.

How it works

Spectra Total ORAC Blend exerts its effects primarily through direct scavenging of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and by enhancing the body's endogenous antioxidant defense systems. The diverse array of phytochemicals present in the blend, including polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, and vitamins from its fruit, vegetable, and herb components, work synergistically. These compounds interact with various oxidative and inflammatory pathways within the body, helping to maintain redox balance. By neutralizing free radicals and supporting the body's natural antioxidant enzymes, Spectra Total ORAC Blend helps to mitigate cellular damage caused by oxidative stress. While the bioavailability of individual components varies, the combined action of these compounds contributes to its overall antioxidant capacity.

Side effects

Spectra Total ORAC Blend is generally considered safe, with no common, uncommon, or rare side effects reported in available clinical studies. However, as a multi-ingredient blend, potential side effects would typically stem from its individual components. Due to the presence of ingredients like garlic and certain fruit extracts, there is a theoretical potential for interactions with anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications, which could increase the risk of bleeding. Therefore, caution is advised for individuals on blood-thinning drugs. Contraindications include known allergies to any of the blend's constituents. Safety in specific populations such as pregnant or lactating women and children has not been established, and its use in these groups should be avoided or undertaken only under medical supervision. Long-term safety data are currently limited, and users should adhere to recommended dosages.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of Spectra Total ORAC Blend, as demonstrated in clinical studies, is 100 mg per serving. While optimal dosage ranges are not fully established, most research studies have utilized dosages between 100 mg and 200 mg per day. The maximum safe dose has not been determined, so it is crucial to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice. The timing of ingestion is not critical for its antioxidant effects; it can be taken with or without food. Spectra Total ORAC Blend is available in both capsule and powder forms, and the bioavailability may vary slightly between these forms. While no specific cofactors are required for its absorption or efficacy, maintaining a balanced diet can generally enhance overall antioxidant benefits.

FAQs

Is Spectra Total ORAC Blend safe for daily use?

Spectra Total ORAC Blend is generally considered safe for most healthy adults when used as directed. No significant side effects have been reported in clinical studies, but long-term safety data are still limited.

When is the best time to take Spectra Total ORAC Blend?

The timing of ingestion is not critical for its antioxidant effects. It can be taken at any time of day, with or without food. Consistency in daily intake is more important than specific timing.

Can Spectra Total ORAC Blend replace fruits and vegetables in my diet?

No, Spectra Total ORAC Blend is a supplement and should not be considered a substitute for a healthy, balanced diet rich in whole fruits and vegetables. It is intended to complement dietary intake.

What are the main benefits of taking Spectra Total ORAC Blend?

The primary benefit is its ability to significantly reduce markers of oxidative stress, as shown in acute studies. It provides broad-spectrum antioxidant support from a blend of fruit, vegetable, and herb extracts.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4256589/ – This double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study investigated the acute effects of Spectra™ (100 mg) on oxidative stress markers in healthy adults. The study found a significant reduction in oxidative stress markers after a single dose, indicating its immediate antioxidant efficacy. However, it was a single-dose study, and long-term effects or clinical outcomes were not assessed.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31092388/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the association between dietary total antioxidant capacity (D-TAC) and cancer risk, including data from 721,429 individuals across 19 studies. It found a significant inverse association between higher D-TAC and reduced cancer risk. While not specific to Spectra™, this high-quality evidence supports the general health benefits of dietary antioxidants.
https://vaneeghen.com/insights/97/new-spectra-study-reveals-compelling-effects-on-ros-concentrations – This source discusses a study on Spectra™ and its effects on reactive oxygen species (ROS) concentrations. It highlights the blend's ability to reduce ROS, which are key contributors to oxidative stress. The information suggests the blend's effectiveness in mitigating cellular damage.
https://vaneeghen.com/insights/90/vaneeghen.com/insights/90/spectra-antioxidant-action-not-just-potential – This article emphasizes that Spectra™ provides proven antioxidant action rather than just potential. It likely delves into the mechanisms and evidence supporting the blend's ability to combat oxidative stress, reinforcing its functional benefits.
https://nutrabio.com/blogs/endurelite/spectra-total-orac-blend-supplement-antioxidants-free-radicals-and-aging-endurance-athletes – This blog post discusses Spectra Total ORAC Blend in the context of antioxidants, free radicals, aging, and endurance athletes. It provides an overview of the supplement's benefits, particularly for individuals engaged in strenuous physical activity, and its role in combating oxidative stress.