Glutathione Foods and Benefits

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Glutathione is a natural protein within the body made of three distinct amino acids, known as cysteine, glycine and glutamic acid. Body synthesizes glutathione to help defend it against free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause cell damage. Although all cells in the human body can synthesize glutathione, the liver is the primary organ that maintains circulating levels of glutathione. Research shows that glutathione levels, steadily decline by 8% to 12% per decade, beginning at the age of 20.

Glutathione exists in the body in two different forms. One is the reduced form, or GSH, and the other is the oxidized form, GSSG. GSH is the form that combats free radicals in the body. The majority of this substance found in the cells and tissue of the body is in the GHS state. Of total glutathione concentration in the body, only 10% resides as GSSG.

Glutathione and Diseases

Many diseases are related to the deficiency of glutathione. Inflammation, cancer, AIDS, sickle cell anemia, heart attack, stroke, liver disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease  correlate to glutathione deficiency. Scientific researchs has shown that people who have low levels of glutathione are susceptible to chronic disease. Low levels of glutathione limit the optimum functioning of T cells. Cytotoxic T cell responses and interleukin-II-dependent functions are inhibited even by a partial depletion of the intracellular glutathione pool. Many neurological and psychiatric disease processes are characterized by high levels of oxidative stress and free radical formation, as well as abnormalities in glutathione metabolism and antioxidant defenses. Two examples of immune system disorders that seem to have a correlation with low glutathione levels are rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Atherosclerosis seems to be linked to oxidative damage to the endothelial cells especially when glutathione levels are low. Chronically low glutathione levels are seen in premature infants, alcoholic cirrhosis and individuals with HIV. A 27 percent reduction in glutathione has been reported in the cerebrospinal fluid of schizophrenic patients.

Glutathione Benefits

It is a strong antioxidant and thus neutralizes free radicals and prevents their formation. It is an antioxidant requisite for the protection of proteins; is involved in nucleic acid synthesis and plays a role in DNA repair. Plays a significant role in red and white blood cell formation. Builds as a cofactor the enzyme glutathione peroxidase. Important role in immune function via white blood cell production and is one of the most powerful antiviral agents known.

Antioxidant

GlutathioneGlutathione is a molecule that helps remove free radicals from your body. Is a important factor in detoxification and antioxidant mechanisms of your body. It directly quenches reactive hydroxyl free radicals, other oxygen-centered free radicals, and radical centers on DNA and other biomolecules. Glutathione works with two enzymes to perform its functions; glutathione peroxidase converts ROS into water molecules, and glutathione-S-transferase binds glutathione to toxic substances so the latter can be excreted from your body.

Immune System

Glutathione is an integral part of maintaining a strong immune system. It is responsible for transporting nutrients to lymphocytes and phagocytes, two cells that are important to immune function. The immune system works best if the lymphoid cells have a delicately balanced intermediate level of glutathione. In individuals with immune deficiency, glutathione levels fall well below the normal levels in blood and immune cells. Glutathione is responsible for an array of critical cellular processes including gene expression, cell signaling and DNA and protein synthesis. A article reported in the “Annals of Pharmacology” stated that glutathione is significant in DNA synthesis and repair, protein and prostaglandin synthesis, amino acid transport, detoxification of toxins and carcinogens, enhancement of the immune system, and protection from oxidation and enzyme activations.

Glutathione Foods

Glutathione occurs naturally in many foods, and people who eat well probably have enough in their diets. Those with diets high in fresh fruits and vegetables and freshly prepared meats are most likely just fine.

•Fruits

Some fruits are high in glutathione. Avocados, oranges,grapefruit,  strawberries, watermelon, peaches, blueberries have the highest contents.

•Protein

Most sources of protein can increase your glutathione levels. Cysteine is found in high protein foods, especially ricotta and cottage cheese, pork, beef, chicken, turkey, duck and other poultry. Raw eggs and raw, unpasteurized milk are rich in glutathione.

•Sulfur Rich Nutrients

Eating sulfur-rich nutrients may enhance glutathione production in your body. The amino acids cysteine, glycine and glutamate are precursors to Glutathione (GSH) in the body’s cells. Consuming foods rich in these sulfur-containing amino acids can help boost glutathione levels including, garlic, onions, broccoli, asparagus, collards, cauliflower, kale and cabbage. Cooking vegetables reduces their glutathione levels. Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) is related to glutathione (GSH), and comes from raw foods and stimulates the production within the body of the master antioxidant glutathione (GSH).

•Selenium

Selenium is necessary for formation of glutathione containing enzymes. Selenium-rich oats, cereals, beef, poultry, Brazil nuts, walnuts, legumes, tuna, cheese, eggs.

•Unadulterated Whey Protein

Whey protein is an important food for increasing your glutathione levels. The combination of added whey protein with vitamin B2 (riboflavin) provides the contribution for boosting glutathione levels.

•Milk Thistle

Milk thistle (silymarin), helps to prevent the depletion of glutathione in the liver. Milk thistle  can help your liver regenerate cells and heal itself. The liver has the maximum concentration of glutathione because it’s the main organ of detoxification. It also stimulates the glutathione S-transferase pathway and increases the level of glutathione in cells. A 2010 study reported in the journal “Food and Chemical Toxicology” found that milk thistleincreased the body’s level of glutathione, providing a possible means of preventing liver damage. Average dosage for people with impaired liver disease is between 420 and 600 milligrams of silymarin daily.

•Curcumin

Curcumin is an extract from the Indian spice turmeric. The two words are sometimes used interchangeably. Curcumin is able to stabilize the amounts of glutathione in the body. Curcumin has been found to increase expression of the glutathione S-transferase and protect neurons exposed to oxidant stress. Typical dosage consists of 400 to 600 mg of curcumin three times a day.

•Alpha Lipoic Acid

Supplements of alpha lipoic acid help improve intracellular levels of glutathione. Alpha-lipoic acid is a naturally occurring compound that is synthesized in small amounts by humans. Is present in every cell, where it assists in energy production. Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) has many functions, but it’s one of the most effective free radical scavengers. It also has the ability  to regenerate other antioxidants such as vitamins C, E, and glutathione. Around 30 to 40% of oral doses of ALA are absorbed. As a general antioxidant, a dosage of 20 to 50 mg daily is commonly recommended. Most studies have used doses of 300 to 600 milligrams daily.

•N-Acetylcysteine

N-Acetylcysteine is a metabolite of the sulfur-containing amino acid, cysteine. N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) is rapidly metabolized to intracellular glutathione. Clinical studies have shown that pretreatment with N-Acetylcysteine for paracetamol overdose protects liver cells and maintains glutathione levels. N-Acetylcysteine is a precursor to glutathione and used as both an antidote for acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity and as a mucolytic agent for respiratory diseases. Typical dosages range of 250-1500 mg a day.

•SAMe (S-adenosyl-L-methionine)

S-Adenosyl-L-methionine is a naturally occurring molecule distributed to virtually all body tissues and fluids. SAMe (S-Adenosylmethionine) is an important energy source  and intrinsically related to the synthesis of glutathione. Folic acid, vitamin B6, and B12, are required for proper formation and metabolism of S-Adenosylmethionine. In transsulfuration reactions, S-adenosyl-L-methionine is converted to cysteine in a series of enzymatic steps. Cysteine is a precursor of glutathione, a important cellular antioxidant. SAMe must be taken on an empty stomach for absorption purposes. ( SAM-e Dosage for Depression )

N-Acetylcysteine Benefits and Side Effects

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The N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) molecule is a derivative of the sulfur-containing amino acid cysteine. It is a stable form of cysteine that works as an antioxidant that supports the immune system of the body that fights off toxins. Within the body, N-Acetylcysteine is converted to intracellular glutathione, the body’s premier antioxidant. Studies have demonstrated the NAC has a important role to play in the management of cancer, HIV, heart disease, heavy metal toxicity, and other diseases characterised by free radical, oxidant damage.

N-Acetylcysteine Benefits

N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) has been used successfully to treat glutathione deficiency in a wide range of infections, genetic defects and metabolic disorders, including HIV infection and COPD. Several studies have shown that NAC can help protect the lungs from carcinogens found in tobacco smoke, maintain the liver against the toxic effects of alcohol, and reduce toxic side effects of some medicines used to treat cancer. To treat drug-induced liver toxicity NAC is an effective therapy for acetaminophen poisoning.

Glutathione

Along with glycine and glutamic acid N-Acetylcysteine is a precursor to glutathione, which is the body’s most important cellular antioxidant. Glutathione is important antioxidant produced by the body to help protect against free radical damage, and is a critical factor in supporting a healthy immune system. The liver produces glutathione, an antioxidant, and also other enzymes that shield the body from disease causing toxins and other harmful foreign body that enters the body. NAC helps the liver produce the antioxidant glutathione, and it also produces enzymes that protect the body from disease. When taken internally, N-Acetylcysteine replenishes intracellular levels of the natural antioxidant glutathione, helping to restore cells’ capability to fight damage from reactive oxygen species. Without glutathione, your body’s immune system would be greatly compromised, and left with little defense against toxins and disease.

Chronic Bronchitis

Was first developed as a therapeutic for its ability to break up mucus in the lungs in conditions like bronchitis. A meta-analysis was performed on eight randomized controlled trials that have studied N-Acetylcysteine for preventing exacerbations of chronic bronchitis. Doses from 400 to 1200 mg/day were very effective in reducing the risk of bronchitis exacerbations. The mucolytic properties of NAC are due to its capability to liquefy disulfide bonds. By breaking up di-sulfur bonds, N-acetylcysteine shortens the chain-length of mucus proteins, thus thinning the mucus.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

N-Acetylcysteine reduces the frequency and duration of attacks of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and may slow the clinical course of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. According to a study reported in the June 2006 edition of the International Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, a 600 mg daily dose of N-Acetylcysteine can be effective in the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In a 2010 study published in the European Respiratory Review, NAC was shown to be influential at reducing symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in patients not using inhaled medications.

Liver

N-Acetylcysteine is used as an antidote for liver toxicity caused by acetaminophen poisoning, which can be life-threatening. Also, shown to be helpful at treating liver failure from other causes. Paracetamol poisoning is induced primarily by depletion of glutathione stores in the liver. Oral n-acetylcysteine is transported to the liver where it counteracts the drop in glutathione levels caused by paracetamol administration. May also play a role in protecting the liver from heavy metal poisoning by copper, mercury, lead, and arsenic.

HIV/AIDS

Treating HIV patients for 8 weeks with NAC replenishes glutathione, making it a beneficial complementary treatment to boost the immune system, protect against oxidative stress and increase detoxification of medications. “The University of Hawaii” indicates N-Acetylcysteine as part of an antioxidant regimen, is a supplement used by patients afflicted  with HIV/AIDS.

Anticarcinogenic

Animal-based studies suggests that NAC has anticarcinogenic and antimetastatic effects. Colon cancer, which has been associated with the growth of abnormal polyps cells, can be prevented with N-Acetylcysteine which discourages the growth of this  anomalous tissue. A study reported in February 2002 in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention indicates that taking NAC when you smoke may help inhibit cancer biomarker development.

N-Acetylcysteine Food Sources

N-Acetylcysteine is not found naturally in nutrient sources; but cysteine is present in most high protein foods. (N-Acetylcysteine converts into cysteine.) Pork, chicken, sausage, turkey, fish, yogurt, cottage cheese, ricotta cheese contain cysteine. Oat flakes, broccoli, red pepper, soy beans, bananas, garlic, and onion are significant sources of cysteine.

NAC Dosage

Typical dosages range of 250-1500 mg a day. NAC can be taken orally in tablet form, or it can be administered intravenously. When taking NAC it is recommended that 2 to 3 times as much vitamin C be taken at the same time.

N-Acetylcysteine Side Effects

Overall, N-Acetylcysteine is well tolerated. high doses can cause gastrointestinal disturbances, nausea and vomiting. Although uncommon, important NAC side effects include anaphylaxis, asthma, and hypotension. When taken over a long period, N-Acetylcysteine mineral depletion may call for copper and zinc supplementation in the diet. Remember to talk with your doctor before starting a new supplement.

Phosphatidylserine Benefits and Side Effects

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 Phosphatidylserine (PS) is an essential lipid component of the cerebral cellular membranes. Is naturally found in every cell membrane in the body, however in very high levels in cell membranes in the brain. PS is the key nutrient that regulates how brain cells work. It regulates which nutrients enter brain cells, how waste gets out of brain cells, and communication between brain cells. Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid that is found in all cells, but is most highly concentrated in the walls  of brain cells, making up about 70% of its nerve tissue mass.

Phosphatidylserine plays a important role in neurotransmission and synaptic function. Along with another essential fatty acids, may also play a critical role in cognitive function, including maintaining concentration and memory. Over 3,000 published research papers and more than 60 clinical trials have established that PS can rejuvenate your brain cell membranes and thereby. PS has been used widely in Europe to help declining mental function and depression in the elderly.

Phosphatidylserine Benefits

Significant findings from numerous double-blind studies suggests that animal-source PS is an influential treatment for Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of age-related mental decline. Phosphatidylserine specifically influences cellular metabolism and communication by enhancing the fluidity of cell membranes. This function is essential to your brain cells’ capacity to send and receive biochemical communication. It increases the communication between brain cells and also restores the brain’s supply of acetylcholine, a primary neurotransmitter that is significant to memory and cognitive function. Impaired short term memory and mental function, in severe cases depression, may result from PS deficiency.

PS stimulates the release of dopamine, increases the production of acetylcholine, enhances brain glucose metabolism, reduces cortisol levels, and boosts the activity of nerve growth factor (NGF), which oversees the health of cholinergic neurons. Human clinical studies show phosphatidyl serine may assist against the symptoms of dementia and Age-Associated Memory Impairment, including reducing the risk of dementia and cognitive dysfunction.

According to a study described University of New Mexico and Mark McDaniel, there is a possibility that depression, (especially age-related depression), may be linked to falling phosphatidylserine levels. Scientists at the University of Milan conducted a study of the effects of PS on mood, stress, cortisol, and memory. They studied 10 women, aged 70-81 years old, who were suffering with depression. They found that phosphatidylserine increased brain turnover of dopamine, norepinephrine, acetylcholine and glucose reserves. This means that phosphatidylserine was effective in reducing anxiety, while also lessening their symptoms of depression, and improving long-term memory and learning.

In a 1991 study of phosphatidyl serine among people aged 50 to 75, researchers found positive effects when they used 100 mg doses of PS, three times daily. Researchers found a 30 % improvement in cognitive function that included memory, learning, recalling names, faces, and numbers.  In one double-blind study that enrolled 149 people with memory loss but not dementia, PS provided important effects as compared with placebo. People with the most severe memory loss showed the most development. In a large, multicenter study of geriatric patients, from 23 geriatric or general medicine units with moderate to severe age-related cognitive decline, those who received phosphatidyl serine therapy showed significantly improved behavior, such as increased motivation, initiative and socialization, compared to the placebo group. In  another 6 month study of 40  individuals, PS  supplementation enhanced cerebral metabolism and outcomes of cognitive training.

Placebo-controlled and double-blind studies have shown mild effects from phosphatidylserine supplementation when used in the amount of 300 mg per day for 3 to 12 weeks in patients with early Alzheimer’s disease. In a study reported in 1992 in the journal, Psychopharmacological Bulletin, PS  was found to develop several measures of cognitive function in people with early stage Alzheimer’s disease.

Best Food Sources Phosphatidylserine

It’s manufactured by the body but can also be obtained through dietary sources such as meat, fish,  white beans, barley and soy lecithin. Notably mackerel and cod, contain significant level of phosphatidylserine.  100 g serving of cow brains contains 713 mg of phosphatidylserine. But, phosphatidylserine derived from the brains of infected cows could transmit the disease to humans.

PS Supplements

Phosphatidylserine is a semi-synthetic product manufactured from soy lecithin. Originally, PS supplements were derived from the brain cells of cows. But, because of concerns about mad cow disease, many firms now produce phosphatidylserine supplements from soy  derivatives. Early studies, were based on cow-derived supplements. According to a survey conducted in 2001; using soy as a source of phosphatidylserine does not show the same positive outcome for treatment as the bovine source.

Phosphatidylserine Dosage

For the purpose of improving mental function, phosphatidylserine is usually taken in doses of 100 mg two to three times daily. Most of the trials were conducted at 300 mg per day but for people with motor impairment, more doses may be necessary.

Side Effects

PS is generally regarded as safe when used at recommended dosages. Phosphatidylserine has infrequently caused gastro-intestinal upset and can cause insomnia if taken in 600 mg dose  before going to bed. Phosphatidylserine interacts with blood-thinning medications. Can compound the effect of blood thinners, such as warfarin, heparin, aspirin, pentoxifylline, ticlopidine and clopidogrel.

Chaga Benefits and Side Effects

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Chaga (Inonotus Obliquus) is a parasitic mushroom that grows on the trunks of birch trees. Grows in Siberia, Korea, Canada, the Northern US. Yet, because of the extremely cold temperatures encountered in the Siberian forest, Siberian Chaga mushroom is the most potent variety worldwide. Chaga mushroom has 29 beta fractions. It contains saponins, sterols, triterpenes, SOD, protein, amino acid complexes and other trace minerals.

Chaga Benefits

This medicinal mushroom is well known for its full spectrum of immune stimulating phytochemicals. Chaga mushroom is an excellent source for plant sterols, and beta glucan. But, its most potent ingredient is a special substance known as superoxide dismutase. Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) is the key antioxidant responsible for counteracting superoxide, which is one of the  most damaging free-radicals in the human body. The amount of superoxide dismutase in our body is important for our health yet it decreases as we age. Chaga’s superoxide dismutase quantity is 35,000, compared to other medical mushrooms which only have 1,400 to 1,500.

Chaga mushroom is rich in beta glucans which have immunomodulating activities. Beta glucans bind to Complement Receptor 3 that allows the immune cells to recognize cancer cells as “non-self”. Chaga mushroom polysaccharides effectively promote macrophage activation through the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways, suggesting that chaga polysaccharides help regulate the immune response of the body.

Chaga mushroom contains high levels of betulinic acid in a form that can be ingested orally. The anticancer effects of betulinic acid, is now being studied for use as achemotherapeutic agent. Betulinic acid, is cytotoxic and triggers apoptosis through a direct effect on the mitochondria of cancer cells.

A water-soluble extract of chaga has been shown to have an antioxidant feature in cell culture trials. Experts believe that oxidative nuclear DNA damage over the human life span strongly contributes to age related degeneration and the development of cancers. Scientists at Kyunghee University South Korea examined chaga mushroom effectiveness in protecting cellular DNA. Cells were treated with chaga  extract then exposed to oxidative stress. The extract-treated cells had 40 % less DNA mutation compared with the untreated cells.

Studies have proven its effectiveness in treating many types of cancers, including breast cancer, lung cancer, liver cancer, melanoma and stomach cancer. In 1955, following some years of research and testing, chaga was approved for the treatment of cancers by “Medical Academy of Science in Moscow“. In a 48 patient  clinical trial in Poland in 1957, 10 patients treated with chaga mushroom showed a reduction of tumor size, a decrease in pain, a decrease in the intensity and the frequency of hemorrhaging, and a recovery that was accompanied with better sleep, appetite and feelings of improvement. Scientists, at the Department of Biotechnology, Daegu University, demonstrated anti-colon cancer effects chaga  in a experiment reported in the December 2009 issue of the journal Phytotherapy Research.

Chaga can be used as an adjunct for the treatment of those who are suffering from HIV/AIDS. There are  antiviral agents in chaga  mushroom that can inhibit the growth of viruses connected with HIV/AIDS.  There are experiments conducted in Japan which have confirmed Chaga’s antiviral activity by inhibiting the protease enzyme of HIV-1.

Ethanol extracts of Chaga have shown marked, dose-dependent capability to inhibit the production of the chemical mediators of inflammation. This leads to a reduction in the inflammatory response of the body. The anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties of chaga mushroom  are thought to be the inhibition of nitric oxide synthase  and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). An extract of chaga reduced the oxidative stress in lymphocytes from patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

Chaga Side Effects

Chaga  may magnify the effects of anticoagulant medications such as warfarin and aspirin. If you take, especially anticoagulant and hypoglycemic drugs, talk with your physician before taking chaga. Chaga is contraindicated for patients who are using penicillin or glucose given intravenously.

Bacopa Side Effects Benefits and Dosage

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Bacopa monnieri is a herb which It grows naturally in India and has a long history of use in the Ayurvedic Medicine Tradition in the treatment of a number of disorders, particularly those involving anxiety, intellect and poor memory. It is also known as Brahmi. Boasts large green leaves and purple flowers. Researches have shown that the contains many active constituents, including a number of saponins and alkaloids, however, the major constituents are the steroidal saponins, Bacosides A and B. There are some 80 different species of bacopa plant. Only bacopa monnieri has been scientifically evaluated.

Bacopa Benefits

Some studies indicate that bacopa monnieri may help preserve memory and enhance cognitive function. Compounds responsible for the medical effects of bacopa monnieri include saponins, alkaloids and sterols. Another constituents have since been identified, including betulic acid, stigmasterol, beta-sitosterol, as well as numerous bacosides and bacopa saponins. The triterpenoid saponins and their bacosides are responsible for bacopa capability to enhance nerve impulse transmission. Bacosides have antioxidant effects, enhance nerve impulse transmission and have the ability to repair damaged nerve cells. Bacosides help the repair of damaged neurons by enhancing kinase activity, neuronal synthesis, restoration and regeneration of synaptic activity resulting in nerve impulse transmission.

Cognitive Function

A 2002 study reported in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology found that using bacopa for 3 months significantly improved memory. Participants were tested on retention of new information, and the placebo group forgot the information more quickly than the group taking bacopa. One particularly study on bacopa monnieri was performed in Australia, using neuropsychological testing. These tests measure a number of different cognitive skills, such as attention, memory consolidation, short-term memory,  decision making, problem solving, information processing, and verbal learning. In one group were given 300 milligrams of bacopa daily, and the others received a placebo. The tests were repeated 5 and 12 weeks after the study began. The researchers noticed an important improvement among the people in the bacopa group compared to those in the placebo group. The findings demonstrated that bacopa significantly developed performance on specific tests, most notably those dealing with information processing, verbal learning and memory consolidation.

Anxiety

Studies in humans have found that bacopa monnieri may help to reduce stress and anxiety. In a double-blind placebo controlled study at Helfgott Research Institute, 48 participants, 65 or older, were given a daily dose of 300 mg of bacopa or a placebo for 12 weeks. Those who took the bacopa showed improved word recall memory scores in comparison to the placebo group. The Bacopa group also showed less anxiety and depression after taking the supplement when compared to the placebo group. This study provides further evidence that bacopa monnieri has property for safely enhancing cognitive performance in the elderly. Bacopa boosts the effects of certain neurotransmitters, including acetylcholine and serotonin. This effect on neurotransmitters is what enables to decrease anxiety and depression symptoms.

Epileptic Seizures

Some studies suggest that bacopa could reduce the frequency and duration of epileptic seizures by regulating the activities of the GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptors. GABA controls important functions of the central nervous system. A study on thirteen epilepsy patients using a defatted, ethanolic extract of bacopa  was performed over a 5-month period. The participants showed improvement in the frequency of seizures over a period of 2 to 5 months. The seizures ceased in 5 cases.

Antioxidant Activity

Bacopa seem to have important antioxidant activity in the brain, which may protect brain cells from damage caused by free radicals, waste substances that can have toxic effects on cells. A study at the University of Catania, found that Bacopa’s antioxidants have a protective property on human DNA fibroblasts, suggesting that this herb may be helpful in the treatment of diseases in which free radicals play a key role.

Bacopa Dosage

Bacopa monnieri extract is available in powders, capsules, syrups and teas. The dose for bacopa monnieri is generally 200-400 mg per day in 2 or 3 divided doses of an extract standardized to 20 percent bacosides.

Bacopa Side Effects

Although bacopa monnieri is generally considered safe, it may cause side effects such as nausea, dry mouth and muscle fatigue. Though bacopa has not been shown to be harmful to pregnant women, caution should still be exercised. Individuals taking antidepressants or antipsychotics that are metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes should not take B. monnieri because it interferes with the metabolization and elimination of the drugs which can lead to overdose. Bacopa can cause heart palpitations. Check with your physician before taking bacopa if you have heart problems. Patients taking thyroid medication should be careful as this plant can increase the concentration of the thyroid drugs. Bacopa may affect male fertility. Has been reported to reversibly suppress spermatogenesis and fertility in male mice at a dose of 250 mg/kg body weight/day (equivalent to a 19 gram dose for a 76kg male) for 28 and 56 days.