Chelated Mineral FAQs

1. Why is dextrose used in the Essentials coating?

The dextrose is used as a constituent of the tablet coating mixture. The amount used supplies no calories to the tablet, and is an insignificant source of sugar.

2. Why did USANA stop using amino acid chelated minerals?

We have changed from amino acid chelates to organically bound complexes of citrate and gluconate, where applicable, for improved purity, consistency, and bioavailability. Unless otherwise indicated on the label, the amount of minerals remains the same.

3. Why did USANA remove the cruciferous extract?

With the additional amount and potency of the new high-quality broccoli extract, the cruciferous extract was not necessary. Broccoli extract contains two-and-a-half times the amount of sulforaphane, while retaining the important sulfur-containing isothiocyanates and indole-3-carbinol.

4. Why did the amount of biotin increase in the Essentials?

The amount was increased to supply 100% of the daily value as established by the FDA for labeling standards. Biotin is an essential cofactor in numerous enzyme systems and is fundamental to human health.

5. Are there any precautions I should be aware of before I start taking the new Essentials?

When taking the USANA nutritional supplements, it is always important to take them with food, preferably a complete meal. Food buffers the stomach to reduce the chance of G.I. upset and also enhances the body's ability to better absorb certain nutrients. It is also very important to keep the body hydrated by drinking 8-10 glasses of water every day. By drinking plenty of fluids, you are actually enhancing your body's ability to facilitate the distribution of nutrients throughout the cells in your body.

6. What is vanadium?

Vanadium is a trace mineral that functions as a cofactor that enhancesor inhibits certain enzymes. It is also part of the building material ofbones and teeth. Recent research has focused on vanadium's role inglucose metabolism, where it has been shown to support healthy serum glucose levels, provided they were healthy to begin with. It may also help maintain healthy thyroid function.

7. Why did the amount of vitamin D in the Essentials increase?

The amount of vitamin D in the Essentials was increased to help promote healthy bone formation. The limited quantity of vitamin D in food and multiple environmental factors has contributed to lower serum levels of vitamin D in the general population, especially in the elderly. A deficiency in vitamin D may contribute to osteoporosis and other bone-related problems.

8. Why did USANA change the Essentials formulation?

USANA Health Sciences is committed to providing you with the highest quality, scientifically based nutritional products. The new Essentials formulation is the result of a combination of newly conducted clinical and laboratory research. This new formulation provides better consistency in raw materials and an overall improved nutritional content.

9. Why has the nutrient information on the Supplemental Facts Panel changed?

USANA feels strongly about the importance of taking the full daily dose of the Essentials. The Supplemental Facts Panel has been changed to reflect the nutrient content received when taking the full, recommended daily dose, unlike the old label that indicated the nutrient content of each tablet. This new Supplemental Facts Panel also offers consumers a more accurate guide for comparing against competitor products.

10. What are the directions for using the new Essentials formula?

Take four (4) Mega Antioxidant and four (4) Chelated Mineral tablets daily, preferably with meals, spread evenly throughout the day or as is convenient.

11. Can I take this new formula with my current medications?

Unfortunately, we are unable to answer any questions concerning your medications. Please check with your pharmacist, physician, or other health care professional.

12. Will I notice any difference when I take the new Essentials compared to the old Essentials?

The new Essentials provides an overall improvement in the nutritional content. However, there should be no noticeable difference in the way that you feel when you take the new Essentials formulation as compared to the old formulation.

13. Are there any artificial colors or preservatives used in the Essentials?

No, the Essentials do not contain any artificial colors or preservatives.

14. When is the "best time" to take my Essentials tablets?

It is always best to take the Essentials with a complete meal.

15. Do the new Essentials contain gluten?

No, the Essentials do not contain gluten.

16. Why do the New Essentials contain 112 tablets in the bottle vs. 84 in the old Essentials?

The USANA Essentials are advanced nutritional supplements that should be the core product of your daily health regime. We feel strongly in the importance of taking your Essentials every single day. In order to increase convenience and accommodate our customers we now offer an exact 4-week supply (112 tablets) to coincide with a 4-week autoship cycle.