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Cooper Complete Frequently Asked Questions |
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- Why do I need to take 4 tablets twice a day?
It is important to replenish the water-soluble vitamins, especially vitamin C, as some nutrients may be lost through the urine throughout the day. Two daily doses of Cooper Complete allow the body to maintain a sufficient level of the important antioxidants to fight off free radicals.
- Do I need to take all 8 tablets if I eat healthy foods or can I just take three or four?
Take all eight. It is virtually impossible to get from your diet the vitamins found in Cooper Complete. An article in the Journal of the American Medical Association, May, 1997, reported, "For some nutrients, the amounts proposed as being healthy apparently cannot be provided by a reasonable quantity and variety of natural foods. Thus nutrient supplements may be important for health promotion and prevention of certain chronic diseases." Taking the full dosage in addition to a healthy diet will ensure that your intake of vitamins is at the best level.
- Why is there no calcium in Cooper Complete?
Calcium requirements are dependent upon both gender and age; and because Cooper Complete multivitamin and mineral supplement was formulated for men and women it was best to leave it out of the formula. In addition, an observational study at the Harvard School of Public Health found that men consuming more than 500 mg of calcium per day from either food or supplements might increase their risk of prostate cancer. Although this study was not conclusive, the evidence suggests that perhaps men should get calcium through food, unless otherwise recommended by a physician to take calcium supplements due to osteoporosis, osteopenia, or stress fractures.
- Is there any other supplement I should take in addition to Cooper Complete?
Calcium is the only supplement one should take in addition to Cooper Complete multivitamin and mineral supplement. Calcium citrate is the preferable form as it is more readily absorbed by the body. It is also best to take calcium citrate on an empty stomach, which is another reason why calcium was left out of the Cooper Complete multivitamin and mineral formula.
- Is there any beta carotene in Cooper Complete multivitamin and mineral?
Yes, the first ingredient on the label listed as "Vitamin A (natural mixed carotenoids)" is actually beta carotene. The FDA specifications for vitamin labels require the ingredients to be listed by the vitamin's name. Beta carotene is a provitamin to vitamin A and is actually converted by the body into vitamin A.
- Does Cooper Complete contain the natural vitamin E?
Cooper Complete multivitamin and mineral supplement contains d-alpha tocopherol, the natural form of vitamin E. Recent studies have shown that natural E is not only better absorbed, but also better retained in the body than the synthetic form, "dl-alpha tocopherol."
- What is Coenzyme Q10?
Coenzyme Q10 or ubiquinone is found in every cell in the body. Its main function is to serve as a catalyst to convert the food we eat into energy. Coenzyme Q10 also acts as a powerful antioxidant. Coenzyme Q10 may also be depleted in people who are taking cholesterol lowering statin drugs including pravastatin, lovastatin, and the dietary supplement Cholestin. Therefore, it is preferable that these people take coenzyme Q10 in supplement form.
- Is there anyone who should NOT take Cooper Complete multivitamin and mineral supplement?
A person taking Coumadin should not take Cooper Complete due to reported drug interactions with coenzyme Q10 and vitamin K. The effectiveness of Coumadin may be compromised or diminished. Always talk to your personal physician before starting any supplement regime.
- Why is the Cooper Complete Iron Free formula suggested for men and postmenopausal women?
Research has suggested that high stored iron levels are associated with an increased risk of liver cancer. Women beyond childbearing years as well as men do not need to take iron supplements unless otherwise recommended by a physician.
- Why does Cooper Complete have such a high dose of B12 as compared to the daily value?
One of the major objectives of Cooper Complete multivitamin and mineral supplements is to lower the homocysteine level. Homocysteine is a breakdown product of the amino acid methionine found primarily in meats and dairy products. In a homocysteine state, it can either go back to methionine or be broken down further to cysteine, neither of which is toxic. Our product contains preventive levels of both vitamin B12 and folic acid, which together convert homocysteine to methionine. In addition, vitamin B6 helps to convert homocysteine to cysteine. The use of folic acid alone, i.e. not compensated with adequate vitamin B12, could increase the risk of pernicious anemia.
- What are lutein and zeaxanthin?
Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids that may prevent cell damage by acting as antioxidants in removing destructive free oxygen radicals. Studies show these two carotenoids help maintain healthy vision in people ages 65 and older.
- What is lycopene?
Lycopene is a carotenoid found primarily in tomatoes, red grapefruit, and watermelon, and gives them their red color. Several research studies indicate lycopene is effective in maintaining prostate health.
- Can I take Cooper Complete multivitamin and mineral supplement as a prenatal vitamin?
While some physicians have approved Cooper Complete With Iron for use as a prenatal, this is a personal decision best made between you and your individual physician.
- Where do I find mixed carotenoids if I'm not taking Cooper Complete?
Mixed carotenoids, including beta carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin can be obtained by eating a variety of fruits and vegetables. According to the nutrient database at Harvard School of Public Health, a half cup of cooked spinach or one cup of raw spinach will provide the daily requirements (approximately 6 mg) of lutein and zeaxanthin have been shown to reduce the risk for aged-related macular degeneration and will also meet the daily value for beta carotene. Other food sources of beta carotene include one medium carrot, one mango, one cup of cantaloupe, or a half cup of boiled kale. However, if you cannot meet these requirements through food, look for a multivitamin that says on the label that it contains "natural mixed carotenoids".
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How do I know which of the three Cooper Complete vitamin preparations is right for me?
Cooper Complete Iron Free is a multivitamin and mineral supplement suggested for men and postmenopausal women who do not need supplemental iron, unless otherwise recommended by their physician.
Cooper Complete With Iron is a multivitamin and mineral supplement suggested for premenopausal women and those needing iron supplements as recommended by a physician. Women in their childbearing years need supplemental iron, as deficiencies are common. Those who are anemic or are advised by their physician to take iron in a supplement form may also take this Cooper Complete formulation.
Cooper Complete Elite Athlete is a multivitamin and mineral supplement that is suggested for elite or "ultra athletes," including marathon runners, triathletes, and anyone who exercises over five hours per week at 80 percent of the maximal heart rate or higher (as defined: 220 minus age x 0.8). If you do NOT fit into this category, you should NOT take this product. Please consider one of the two other Cooper Complete multivitamin products.
- Does taking a baby aspirin (82 mg) or adult aspirin (325 mg) prevent me from taking Cooper Complete vitamins?
No. The combined effect of vitamin E and aspirin is not a problem at these dosages.
- Is vitamin E dangerous if I take Coumadin?
No, not at the levels of vitamin E in Cooper Complete. However, due to the vitamin K in Cooper Complete, it is not advisable to take this product if you are on anticoagulants such as Coumadin.
- What good is selenium and why do I need it?
Selenium is a trace mineral that is a structural element of the enzyme that protects glutathionine, which serves as part of the body's internal defense against free radical damage. Selenium works hand in hand with vitamins C, E, and beta carotene as an antioxidant defense.
- What are the benefits of each ingredient in Cooper Complete and why does it contain higher doses of some vitamins than the average one-a-day vitamin?
- What is glucosamine?
Glucosamine is an amino sugar that is the fundamental building block of the molecules that attract and hold water in cartilage. Amino sugars are the basis of virtually all connective tissues and lubricating fluids in the body. Although the body makes glucosamine, injuries and aging may result in a deficiency.
- What is the role of glucosamine in proper joint function?
Glucosamine is a major building block of the water-binding molecules that play an important role in the building of cartilage. Glucosamine also is needed to make the proteins that bind water in the cartilage matrix ("birthplace" of cartilage).
- What is chondroitin?
Chondroitin is a long chain of amino sugars that is derived from bovine trachea. Chondroitin sulfate helps promote water retention in the cartilage, which is essential for shock absorption.
- What is the role of chondroitin in proper joint function?
Chondroitin sulfate, which is found naturally in the body, is an important and major component of the cartilage surrounding the joints. Chondroitin sulfate, when taken orally, provides healthy tissue.
- What is bromelain?
Bromelain is an extract from the pineapple stem.
- What are the recommendations for taking Cooper Complete Joint Maintenance Formula?
The recommended serving size is 4 capsules daily.
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