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Frequently Asked Questions
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Many people, when first hearing about information for the first time have questions. Even those that may have heard about Ampalaya, still may have questions they would like to be answered. Here you will the find most frequently asked questions about Ampalaya, Ampalaya Plus, and the ingredients of Ampalaya Plus. We are expanding our FAQ list weekly. If you have a question(s) that you don't see answered here, please feel free to contact us with your question(s).
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What is Diabetes?
What is Ampalaya?
What is Banaba?
What is Luyang Dilaw (Turmeric)?
Is Ampalaya Plus a medicine?
Why should I take Ampalaya Plus?
Who is Ampalya Plus recommended for?
Is Ampalaya Plus recommended for infants and pregnant women?
Can non-Diabetics use Ampalaya Plus?
Is Ampalaya Plus safe?
Are there any known side-effects with taking Ampalaya Plus?
Are there any adverse effects in taking Ampalaya Plus?
How does Ampalaya Plus work?
What factors into the effectiveness of Ampalaya Plus?
What are the advantages of taking Ampalaya Capsules over Ampalaya Tea?
When (how quickly) will Ampalaya Plus benefits start to take effects?
When (how often) should I take Ampalaya Plus? What is the recommended dosage?
How many milligrams(mg) are the Ampalaya Plus capsules?
What are the other benefits that can be derived from taking Ampalaya Plus?
Is Ampalaya Plus good for diabetics?
If I take insulin shots, can I take Ampalaya Plus?
When I start taking Ampalaya Plus, should I immediately stop taking my medicines?
If my blood sugar is already normal, should I stop taking my medicine?
Does Ampalya Plus cause erratic rise and fall of blood sugar levels in diabetics?
What is Charantin?
What is Corosolic Acid?
What is Curcumin?
What are anti-oxidants?
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is one of the major degenerative diseases in the world today. It is a major risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease. Diabetes is characterized by a reduced ability to use and metabolize dietary carbohydrates, abnormally high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia) and an abnormal amount of sugar in the urine. Diabetes is classified into 2 categories:
Type 1: Insulin dependent (IDDM) or juvenile-onset diabetes.
Type 2: Non-insulin dependent) NIDDM or adult-onset diabetes.
IIDDM begins suddenly, usually in childhood. It is precipitated by a viral attack on the pancreas, and probably genetic factors. The control of this type of diabetes requires insulin therapy. It is felt that there is no cure for this type.
NIDDM begins after the teen years. The progression is slow compared to IDDM and symptoms are mild in the beginning but become severe with the progression. The symptoms of this type are similar to IDDM but the pathology is different. The pancreas contains specialized cells called beta cells that secrete the hormone Insulin in response to high blood sugar levels. In normal conditions, dietary carbohydrates are absorbed from the intestinal lining into the blood as glucose and other simple sugars. As blood levels rise, insulin is secreted from the pancreas and in conjunction with Glucose Tolerance Factor, binds to specialized sites on the membranes of body cells and encourages the transportation of sugar from the blood to the cells. This serves two purposes; it lowers blood sugar and increase availability of sugar (energy) for normal cell functioning. Blood sugar levels return to pre-meal levels as the blood sugar levels decrease.
This process is arrested in diabetic conditions. Blood sugar rises after meals but the pancreas does not secrete adequate amounts of insulin (IDDM) or normal amounts are secreted but the cells are unresponsive to the hormone (NIDDM). Since the cells are starved of energy, fat is broken down to provide energy to the cells. This raises the blood fat levels increasing the risk of cardio vascular diseases. Symptoms are:
Increased urination
Dehydration with increased thirst
Fatigue and muscle weakness
Nausea and/ or vomiting
Increased appetite
Loss of weight (IDDM) or weight gain (NIDDM)
Frequent skin infections or irritation, slow wound healing
Itching, tingling and numbness in hands and feet
Kidney damage
Visual disturbances
Cardiovascular disease
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What is Ampalaya?
Ampalaya or Amargozo is a vegetable grown throughout the Philippines. It is mostly cultivated, although wild forms can be found. We were always reminded during young days to eat our Ampalaya because it is rich in iron. It's really an ugly looking vegetable and considered an acquired taste because of its bitterness.
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What is Banaba?
Banaba is a medicinal plant that grows in the Philippines. Traditional uses include brewing tea from the leaves as a treatment for diabetes and hyperglycemia (elevated blood sugar). The hypoglycemic (blood sugar lowering) effect of Banaba leaf extract is similar to that of insulin – which induces glucose transport from the blood into body cells.
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What is Luyang Dilaw (Turmeric)?
Luyang Dilaw is a member of the Ginger family. Dried Luyang Dilaw is the source of the spice turmeric, the ingredient that gives curry powder its characteristic yellow color. Turmeric is used extensively in foods for both its flavor and color. Turmeric has a long tradition of use in the Chinese and Ayurvedic systems of medicine, particularly as an anti-inflammatory agent, and for the treatment of flatulence, jaundice, menstrual difficulties, hematuria, hemorrhage, and colic. Turmeric can also be applied topically in poultices to relieve pain and inflammation. Current research has focused on turmeric's antioxidant, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, and antimicrobial properties, in addition to its use in cardiovascular disease and gastrointestinal disorders.
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Is Ampalaya Plus a medicine?
No, it is not a medicine. It is better referred to as functional food or supplement. In simple terms, Ampalaya Plus is a vegetable in a capsule with clinically tested blood sugar lowering properties.
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Why should I take Ampalaya Plus?
The product is a perfect supplement for your daily meal. We recognize that your busy working pattern may prevent you from taking any significant amount of vegetable, fiber and anti-oxidants in the course of your day. Ampalaya Plus was formulated to address some of these concerns. The product is produced using safe and effective raw materials. The production is done in clean, modern facilities that use internationally accepted manufacturing practices. The product is backed by thousands of years of traditional medicinal practices but also by scientific clinical studies from the University of the Philippines. Lastly, the product is affordable enough for most people to use of a daily basis.
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Who is Ampalya Plus recommended for?
Pre-Diabetics - It can help you get control of your blood sugar before you get full blown Diabetes.
Type 1: Insulin dependent (IDDM) or juvenile-onset diabetes - It can be used in conjunction with your insulin injection to lower your insulin dosage, regulate your blood sugar, and assist in weight control.
Type 2: Non-insulin dependent) NIDDM or adult-onset diabetes - It can help you regulate your bllod sugar and with proper diet and excercise, can ween you off of prescriptive medication.
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Is Ampalaya Plus recommended for infants and pregnant women?
No. There is no Ampalaya Plus study yet involving pregnant women and children below 7 years old. Hence, caution should be taken.
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Can non-Diabetics use Ampalaya Plus?
Yes, the Clinical Study done on non-diabetics at the UP College of Medicine shows that when the product is administered to the subjects before each meal, the rise in the blood sugar level is significantly lower than in the group administered with the placebo. The implication of the study is that the product protects the pancreas from excessive stress that may lead to type 2 diabetes later in life. The study also highlights that there was no excessive drop in blood sugar as a result of taking Ampalaya Plus
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Is Ampalaya Plus safe?
Yes! Ampalaya Plus is safe for everyday long-term use by diabetics and non-diabetics alike.
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Are there any known side-effects with taking Ampalaya Plus?
No, there are no side effects reported in the study. However, not all people are alike and some are predisposed to certain food allergies. This condition is very rare though.
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Are there any adverse effects in taking Ampalaya Plus?
None. The Clinical Study from UP College of Medicine did not indicate any vomiting, dizziness, allergies, or increased blood pressure.
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How does Ampalaya Plus work?
Our clinical study showed that it prevented/reduced the rise in blood sugar after meals for diabetics and non-diabetic subjects. For diabetics who took the product the rise in their blood sugar was not as high as those who took the placebo. Furthermore, the diabetics who took the product also experienced a faster decrease in blood sugar an hour after taking the meal and the food supplement compared to the control group. Generally all the subjects who participated in the Clinical Study experienced improved bowel movement.
In the scientific literature on Ampalaya, a 1999 study showed that Ampalaya blocks the absorption of sugar. In another study it also showed that it suppresses the movement of the stomach giving the user the feeling of fullness. Both of these mechanisms have implications that Ampalaya may have some weight loss effects. Yet another study shows Ampalaya may contain a substance that decreases cataract formation in the eyes.
Banaba on the other hand has been found to have some form of natural insulin, which causes the decrease in the blood sugar levels of diabetics studied in the clinical test. Turmeric or Luyang dilaw is a known cell repairing properties as a result of the high anti-oxidants found in the substance. Turmeric is a known anti-inflammatory and has been used in stomach ulcers. The substance may also help in lowering the cholesterol level of the user.
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What factors into the effectiveness of Ampalaya Plus?
There are many factors including which parts of the plant is used in the preparation or how the raw material is handled or the source of the raw material and the planting condition where the raw material is harvested.
These are all factors that significantly affect the efficacy of the product. There are some studies, which show that there may be side effects in using seeds of the Ampalaya. Similarly the type of combination and formulation of the product have synergistic effects of 2 herbs (Ampalaya + Banaba) working in different ways for the same effect of lowering the blood sugar level. Lastly, a similar herbal product combination might not produce the same result as Nattural Ampalaya Plus because the source of raw material plays a big role in the efficacy of the product.
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What are the advantages of taking Ampalaya Capsules over Ampalaya Tea?
Ampalaya Capsules are more convenient, less messy, and many times more effective than tea. Teas are good and healthful drinks but have much weaker delivery of nutritive value to the body.
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When (how quickly) will Ampalaya Plus benefits start to take effects?
As far as lowering of the blood sugar is concerned, it varies from person to person. However, our study and reports from Diabetics showed that lowering blood sugar took as fast as 30 minutes after taking Ampalaya Plus. But after their blood sugar had gone down they also reported that it has stabilized at the level for as long as they continued to use Ampalaya Plus and maintained the same medication, exercise and diet as before. This stabilizing effect to their blood sugar is due to Ampalaya Plus' reported ability to improve glucose tolerance.
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When (how often) should I take Ampalaya Plus? What is the recommended dosage?
Ideally, you should take it before your meal. Dosage is 1 capsule but you can increase it depending on your tolerance level and condition. It is best that you monitor your blood sugar every time you take Ampalaya Plus together with your medication. You and your Doctor will be in the best position to evaluate this.
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How many milligrams(mg) are the Ampalaya Plus capsules?
Each Ampalaya Plus capsule is 550mg.
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What are the other benefits that can be derived from taking Ampalaya Plus?
Subjects in the Clinical Study indicated better bowel movement in terms of volume of formed stool and ease of movement. Problems in constipation were generally addressed by taking the product before every meal. Apart from the improved blood sugar levels in the body----some people experienced better circulation. It was reported that some had improved blood lipid levels after taking the product. However, such claims have not been validated by the clinical study.
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Is Ampalaya Plus good for diabetics?
Yes, the Clinical Studies done on the product at the UP College of Medicine shows that for subjects who took the product their high blood sugar levels were significantly lower than in the group, which were given placebo capsules. Moreover, the studies also show that the diabetic subjects taking Ampalaya Plus had a faster reduction rate in their blood sugar levels than the control group taking the placebo. Existing scientific research shows that Ampalaya may block excessive absorption of blood sugar in the body. Banaba contains natural insulin that regulates increase in blood sugar. These two herbs synergistically reduce blood sugar levels in the body. Luyang Dilaw repairs damaged organs and cells as a result of the high blood sugar levels.
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If I take insulin shots, can I take Ampalaya Plus?
Yes, of course. There is no actual prohibition of taking Ampalaya Plus at the same time having insulin injections. However, we advise that you monitor your blood sugar closely and regularly. If you feel that you are getting hypoglycemic then stop taking Ampalaya Plus and consult your doctor. They are in the best position to advise you.
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When I start taking Ampalaya Plus, should I immediately stop taking my medicines?
No, unless your doctor instructs you to do so. This means that diabetics should not reduce or stop their medication on their own without their doctor's advice. Ampalaya Plus is a food supplement and therefore it is not a substitute for doctor-prescribed medication. It should be part of the diet of the diabetic and take doctor-prescribed medicine.
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If my blood sugar is already normal, should I stop taking my medicine?
ABSOLUTELY NOT. Everybody's body works and reacts differently. Unless your doctor instructs you to do so, you should continue to take your medication until they tell you it's safe. This means that diabetics should not stop their medication on their own without their doctor's advice.
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Does Ampalya Plus cause erratic rise and fall of blood sugar levels in diabetics?
No, it does not. This was not seen in the clinical study. Ampalaya Plus is not a medication therefore it cannot substitute the drugs they are currently taking for their diabetes. Ampalaya Plus is a supplement for whatever diabetes medication they are currently on. Diabetes patients are encouraged to modify their diets and Ampalaya Plus allows them to do so in a safe, effective, convenient way. Abrupt rise and drop in blood sugar levels were not seen in Ampalaya Plus users and it is believed that there would not be as long as users do not suddenly stop the diabetes medication they are taking. Certainly the diabetes medication the patient is currently taking will be adjusted because after they start taking Ampalaya Plus their blood sugar levels will be lower.
What's important to establish is a habit of sound eating and living patterns. Certainly Ampalaya Plus helps in modifying our eating pattern. Taking Ampalaya Plus before each meal is like adding a few servings of vegetables in every mealtime. For non-vegetable eaters that is a dramatic modification in their eating pattern and it is a sound, safe and doable proposition.
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What is Charantin?
At least three different groups of constituents in Ampalaya have been reported to have blood- sugar lowering actions of potential benefit in Diabetes Mellitus. These include a mixture of saponins known as Charantin, insulin like peptides and alkaloids. Charantin is the common marker used as measure for standardization of Ampalaya extract.
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What is Corosolic Acid?
Corosolic acid is a triterpene compound extracted from the leaves of Banaba. The leaves of Banaba are used as an herbal remedy for a number of disorders, including diabetes and obesity. Banaba plays a role in regulating levels of blood sugar and insulin in the blood.
For some people, fluctuations in blood sugar and insulin are related to appetite, hunger and various food cravings – particularly craving for carbohydrates such as bread and sweets. By keeping blood sugar and insulin levels in check, Banaba may be an effective supplement for promoting weight loss in certain individuals.
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What is Curcumin?
Curcumin is volatile yellow-orange oil, extracted from Luyang Dilaw. The word for "turmeric" is still "Curcumin" in many languages, including German, Italian, and many Eastern languages. Turmeric spice is made from the root of the plant Curcuma longa, which is in the ginger family. Turmeric root is very deep orange, almost red. It is used very plentifully in India, and elsewhere in the East including the Philippines.
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What are anti-oxidants?
Antioxidants is a substance that prevents or slows the breakdown of another substance by oxygen. Antioxidants such as vitamin C are added to foods (see food additives) to prevent them from becoming rancid or from discoloring.
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