Is it possible to repair defects in our DNA with vitamins and supplements? Can a woody vine found in the Amazon rainforest actually repair DNA? It sounds like science fiction, but there is proven scientific research showing that certain supplements can actually repair damage to our DNA. I am writing about one of these supplements, AC-11 or Cat’s Claw in this article. Our bodies are constantly exposed to oxidative stress and damage caused by toxins and pollutants in our environment, diet, and even the air we breathe. Damage to our cells and DNA caused by carcinogens, cigarette smoke, air pollution, certain medications, and sun exposure is well documented. Over time, this oxidative stress can actually cause damage to the DNA of the cells themselves, which can lead to premature aging, nervous system degeneration, and even cancer.
According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology: “Hence, oxidative DNA damage is implicated in carcinogenesis and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. There is also strong evidence for the role of this type of DNA damage in the aging process. The accumulation of oxidative DNA damage in non-dividing cells is believed to contribute to age-related diseases.” Most of us are familiar with the role antioxidants play in protecting our bodies from free radical damage and inflammation. There is also compounds that actually repair DNA damage?
Scientific studies support the effectiveness of AC-11 for DNA repair
Scientific research has shown that a number of supplements can actually repair DNA. The compound AC-11 or Uncaria tomentosa has attracted considerable attention as a repairer of DNA. AC-11 is derived from Cat’s Claw, a woody vine found in South American rainforests.
Several studies have proven that AC-11 can repair DNA damage. In one study, hairless mice were exposed to ultraviolet radiation, which is known to cause DNA damage and skin cancer. According to Dermatology Online Journal, Volume 13, Number 3: “AC-11-treated animals almost completely repaired single-stranded DNA breaks” and “Double-stranded DNA breaks were significantly less frequent and significant in animals treated with 40 mg AC-11 fewer animals treated with 80 mg AC-11 compared to untreated animals.” In another study, human subjects who had previously undergone chemotherapy and later received AC-11 supplementation showed DNA repair. AC-11 is also known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties.
Thanks to Helene L Zemel
