: Start » Gamma Oryzanol Gamma Oryzanol Introduction
Gamma oryzanol, an ester of ferulic acid, is a natural antioxidant that is primarily found in grain products. Produced from rice bran oil, Gamma oryzanol has been traditionally used by the Japanese as a medicinal agent in the treatment of menopause, gastrointestinal problems, and elevated cholesterol/triglyceride levels. Due to its potent antioxidant effects, gamma oryzanol may also be effective at inhibiting certain cancers, as well as limiting the damaging effects of radiation exposure and chemotherapy. [1, 2]
Research suggests that gamma oryzanol acts on the hypothalamus and pituitary glands, inhibiting the output of certain hypothalamic and pituitary hormones. Hormones affected include; growth hormone, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), prolactin, and leutinizing hormone. However, studies remain mixed on gamma oryzanol’s mechanism of action; with some studies actually reporting an increase in the secretion percentages of the aformentioned hormone. More studies are needed to fully determine the overall effects of gamma oryzanol on hypothalamic and pituitary hormones. [1, 2]
Gamma Oryzanol Food Sources
The best dietary sources include the bran portion of grains such as rice, wheat, barley, and oats. Other food sources include vegetables (esp. asparagus, tomatoes, and peas), citrus fruits, berries, and olives. [1]
Gamma Oryzanol Uses
Gamma oryzanol may be useful for the treatment of high serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels. [1, 6] One study found that treatment with gamma oryzanol reduced cholesterol levels in mildly hypercholesterolemic men in a 4-week period. [3] Several studies suggest that gamma oryzanol’s cholesterol-lowering effects may be due to its ability to increase conversion of cholesterol to bile acid, increase excretion of bile acid, and reduce absorption of cholesterol. [1, 7, 8]
Gamma oryzanol may have anticancerous properties, Several preliminary animal studies have shown that gamma oryzanol may help inhibit tumor cell growth. [9, 10] One study suggests that gamma oryzanol may protect against the damaging effects of radiation exposure and chemotherapy.[11] More human studies are needed to determine gamma oryzanol’s anticancer effects.
Gamma oryzanol may be useful for treatment of menopausal symptoms. Several studies found that treatment with gamma oryzanol improved symptoms in menopausal women.[1, 2, 12, 13] Gamma oryzanol’s beneficial effects appear to be due to its ability to reduce secretion of leutinizing hormone (LH) by the pituitary and increase excretion of endorphins by the hypothalamus. [1]
Gamma oryzanol may be useful for athletes and body builders to increase lean body mass and strength, improve recovery after workouts, and help repair the muscle damage that can result from intense exercise. [1, 14] A particular double-blind study reports that bodybuilders who took 30 milligrams daily of gamma oryzanol increased body weight and strength over a period of 8-weeks. [1, 14] However, other study results do not support these claims. [15, 16] Opposing studies have shown that supplementation with gamma oryzanol during resistance exercise training had no effect on strength or performance. [15] This application for gamma oryzanol remains debatable. Certainly, more research is needed to provide evidence that gamma oryzanol has a positive effect on exercise performance.
Gamma oryzanol may be useful for various digestive disorders such as stomach ulcers, gastritis, and irritable bowel syndrome. [1, 17, 18] Gamma oryzanol’s beneficial effects appear to be due to its ability to reduce the secretion of gastric acid and normalize the nervous system control of digestive secretions.
Gamma Oryzanol Dosages
Dosage: 300 - 500 milligrams daily for therapeutic applications.
Delivery Forms: Tablets, capsules, and liquid. [1, 2]
Gamma Oryzanol Deficiencies and Toxicities
Gamma Oryzanol Deficiencies
Deficiency signs and symptoms have not been reported in medical literature. [1]
Gamma Oryzanol Toxicities
Pregnant, lactating women, and children should not take supplemental gamma oryzanol, unless recommended by a health care provider. [1, 2]
Gamma oryzanol is considered a safe, natural substance. No side effects have been reported with its use. No interactions with gamma-oryzanol and any drug or nutrient have been reported.
Always inform your health care provider about the dietary supplements you are taking, since there may be a potential for side effects, interactions, or allergy.
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