Stress Defense

• Designed to support individuals in Stage 2 of the adrenal stress response (also known as the resistance stage) and improve subjective markers of stress such as irritability, inability to concentrate, forgetfulness, insomnia, and fatigue
• Contains Sensoril® ashwagandha, a patented and well-studied form of Withania somnifera, which increases energy, reduces cortisol levels, suppresses food cravings, improves athletic performance and reduces exercise recovery time
• Key adrenal nutrients, including magnesium and vitamins B5, B6, and C, in their bioavailable forms to support cortisol regulation and adrenal gland function epithelial barrier function

The human response to stress is thought to follow a predictable path: first the alarm phase, followed by the resistance phase, and finally the exhaustion phase. If stress is chronic and unmanaged, the body can only tolerate or "resist" ongoing stress for so long before it is no longer able to adapt and systems fail. Unfortunately, the modern world often makes it impossible to escape common and complex stressors such as finances or relationships. Instead, we must find ways to support the body and defend against the adverse health effects of these ongoing stressors. Cyto-Matrix's Stress Defense is designed to support individuals in the "resist" phase of stress by lowering cortisol and improving symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, irritability, and poor concentration.

Withania somnifera, more commonly known as ashwagandha, is a traditional adaptogenic herb used to support the body during times of stress. This herb has been used for centuries for a wide range of stress-related ailments. Modern research has shown that it can modulate the stress response by lowering blood cortisol levels and increasing quality of life scores in adults suffering from chronic stress.

Sensoril® ashwagandha is a patented, well-studied extract with a dozen clinical trials to support multiple aspects of human health and stress response. Specifically, it has been shown to increase energy, reduce cortisol levels, suppress food cravings, improve cognition, enhance athletic performance, and reduce exercise recovery time. People taking Sensoril® experience subjective improvements in stress management by reporting less irritability, improved concentration, and reduced fatigue. Sensoril also has evidence to show it can reduce inflammation, as measured by high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and reduce joint pain in people with knee discomfort. It is standardized to 3 bioactive ingredients,
withanolide glycosides, withaferin A and oligosaccharides, to ensure consistent quality and results.

While adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha are beneficial for regulating stress hormone production, the adrenal glands still require essential nutrients to function properly. Specifically, vitamins B5 and B6 promote neurotransmitter production, improve adrenal function, and modulate cortisol levels. Vitamin B5 downregulates excess cortisol production, while vitamin B6 is a necessary cofactor for the production of important mood-balancing chemicals like GABA and serotonin. Vitamin C, while classically considered for its role in regulating immunity and cardiovascular function, is also an integral cofactor in the adrenal production of cortisol, dopamine, and epinephrine. The adrenal glands actually contain one of the
highest concentrations of vitamin C throughout the human body. Collectively, these three vitamins are essential for regulating the stress response.

Finally, magnesium is considered an essential mineral for regulating and resisting the effects of stress. Not only is magnesium necessary for maintaining proper nerve and muscle function, but it is also required to create cellular energy in mitochondria and as a cofactor for building DNA, RNA, and many proteins. Clinical trials and large-scale evidence have shown that magnesium can be helpful for muscle tension, fatigue, insomnia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), osteoporosis, migraines, and more. Despite its great importance, it is commonly deficient in the Canadian population due to poor diet, medication depletion, and stress. Ironically, not only does increased exposure to stress lead to a greater demand for magnesium, but also a greater deficiency.

Cyto-Matrix Stress Defense contains the patented Sensoril® ashwagandha in addition to a balanced blend of these key adrenal-supporting nutrients to protect the body from ongoing stress and its harmful effects. Vitamin B6 is found in its active form of pyridoxal-5-phosphate, while magnesium is delivered in its highly stable and bioavailable bis-glycinate form. Ultimately, these nutrient forms lead to greater absorption and tolerance in the body. Stress Defense is available in vegetarian capsules and is a vegan-friendly formula.