FUNCTIONS
The neurochemical and hormonal reactions to stress are regulated through the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis (HPA axis) designed for acute stressors that resolve rapidly.
Present day chronic, low-grade stress results in the continual release of CRH (Corticotrophin Releasing Hormone) from the hypothalamus. This chronic secretion causes dysfunction in the HPA axis, desensitizing the hypothalamic and pituitary receptors to negative feedback from adrenaline, noradrenalin and particularly, cortisol.
Loss of negative feedback within the neuro-hormonal system results in a multitude of health issues. It increases the production of ADH, aldosterone, and angiotensin increasing vascular vasoconstriction and sodium retention. It increases Creactive protein and endothelin, which is not favorable for the cardiovascular system. Additionally, it directly increases LDL production as well as glucocorticoid and mineralcorticoid release. When the negative feedback loop within the HPA-axis is disrupted, chronic hormonal secretion becomes “normal” for that individual.
In this state, they either fail to recognize they are stressed, or they may experience exaggerated emotional and physical response to every stressor including intolerance to noise or light, or feeling overwhelmed by simple tasks. Stress affects so many aspect of health that it is becoming crucial to rebalance the HPA-axis.
Lactium®, a bioactive casein decapeptide (a polypeptide 10 chain amino acid alpha-1 sequence) isolated from cow’s milk is effective in not only decreasing glucocorticoid secretion but will assist in rebalancing the HPA pathway. Lactium® works at three areas of the HPA-axis:
- Lactium® binds specifically to the BZD site of the GABA-A receptor and does NOT bind to the PBR site of the GABA-A receptor responsible for the sedating effects seen with benzodiazepines.
- Lactium® increases the sensitivity of the hypothalamus to cortisol, re-establishing receptor sensitivity feedback within the HPA-axis. It reduces the amount of CRH produced in response to stress.†
- Lactium® decreases the amount of cortisol released by the adrenal glands during acute and chronic stress.†
Studies in humans using alpha-S1-casein decapeptide have resulted in calming effects, without side effects. Results showed a significant decrease in plasma cortisol throughout the combined stress tests and stable heart rate in the treatment group but not in the placebo group. Another study showed after 30 days of supplementation a reduction in stress related issues including digestive, cardiovascular, intellectual, emotional, and social.†
L-Theanine is a unique amino acid found naturally in green tea providing relaxation support without drowsiness. L-theanine has been shown to increase alpha-wave production, an observed pattern considered to be an index of relaxation.†
Vitamin D has been included for additional support of immune function that may be compromised during stress. Vitamin D has many functional roles in the body, including modulation of cell growth, neuromuscular and immune function, bone health and inflammatory support.†
REFERENCES
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Miclo L, Perrin E, Driou A, Papadopoulos V, Boujrad N, Vanderesse R, Boudier JF, Desor D, Linden G, Gaillard JL. Characterization of alpha-casozepine, a tryptic peptide from bovine alpha(s1)-casein with benzodiazepine-like activity. FASEB J. 2001 Aug;15(10):1780-2.
Papadopoulos, V. Peripheral-type benzodiazepine/diazepam binding inhibitor receptor: biological role in steroidogenic cell function.. Endocr. Rev. 14, 222–240 1993
Medina, J. H., Peña, Benzodiazepines in the brain. Their origin and possible biological roles. Mol. Neurobiol. 6, 377–386 1992
Ito K, Nagato Y, Aoi N, Juneja LR, Kim K, Yamamoto T Sugimoto S. Effects of L-theanine on the release of alpha-brain waves in human volunteers. Nippon Nogeikagaku Kaishi, 72; (1998) 153-157.
Juneja LR, Chu DC, Okubo T, Yokogoshi H. L-Theanine – a unique amino acid of green tea and its relaxation effect in humans. Trends in Food Science and Technology: 10; (1999) 199-204.
Prietl B, Treiber G, Pieber TR, Amrein K. Vitamin d and immune function. Nutrients. 2013 Jul 5;5(7):2502-21.
