Frequently Asked Questions

Who are you and how did Nutritional Council™ get started?

Nutritional Council™ is a collective of knowledgable healthcare and nutrition professionals. It was started in 2021 by James Marfleet CNC, LE to address what he perceived as a real need in modern healthcare. James is a Certified Nutritional Consultant, and Lifestyle Educator in Southern California and has been a Lifestyle and Nutrition educator for over 14 years beginning in 2007. For a number of years he freelanced as a Nutritional Consultant and Lifestyle Educator working with Doctors in Southern California to integrate nutritional concepts into their office treatment protocols.

In 2015 he started a company called Therapeutic Lifestyle Change™. Therapeutic Lifestyle Change™ was very successful at educating people and helping hundreds of clients all over the country to start and maintain a regimen of healthful diet and nutrient supplementation. These clients included Medical, Naturopathic and Holistic Doctors, Health and Fitness Companies and their clients, as well as private consumers. This, along with extensive consulting in medical office logistics with experienced healthcare providers, allowed him to help Physicians integrate a comprehensive program of menu planning and supplement recommendations right into their practice. This assisted the doctors when they were treating patients with anything from body composition or weight problems, gut disfunction and imbalance, or metabolic syndrome. But it also provided help with other more serious chronic illness, such as type 2 diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis, among others, many of which have strong ties to menu and diet.*

This program was so successful and comprehensive, it allowed physicians to provide real nutritional care that was approved by major insurance companies as part of a health maintenance plan. 

Nutritional Council™ consults with numerous practitioners of all medical disciplines, from experts in nutrition, to medical doctors with 50+ years experience treating patients. We feel this wide expansive knowledge base, along with thoroughly peer reviewed science from the most recent discoveries in nutrition help us to choose the best formulas for our products. They also assist in developing supplement integration into menus and specific treatment protocols. We actively study the science and look to medical professionals to be sure our products are the absolute best available anywhere.

With so many years years of experience in the industry at our disposal, and a working clinical knowledge of the best use of supplements in wellness, this new company hand picks supplement formulas with the best ingredients  previously only available through special contracts between doctors and exclusive neutriceutical manufacturing companies. This gives everyone an opportunity to enjoy the benefits of these powerful formulas without having to go through the additional expense of a formal medical consultation. Going to an office every time supplements are needed to maintain a regimen already prescribed with the aid of the practitioner just seemed uneccessary. Also by providing these formulas ourselves we can keep their costs down as much as possible.

Nutritional Council™ does always recommend consulting with your healthcare provider when making any diet or supplement changes. However once protocols are established with your provider, having access to these powerful tools without having to visit the office of the physician saves the patient unneccessary medical visits and expense, and frees the doctors time to consult on more critical care.

Why are the Daily values of MultiForma™ so much different than my current Multivitamin? Some are really high and others much lower?

This is because the Daily Value % used by most standard multivitamins to determine dosages are based upon broad bare minimums to prevent deficiency in already healthy people. This means the formula can be based on simply providing what seems to be the recommendation, when this could actually be deficient for a number of reasons

For instance many people do not realize different forms of the same vitamin or mineral react differently and are absorbed differently, (such as B12 as Cyanocobalamin or Methylcobalamin or A as natural beta-carotene, retinyl palmitate, or retinyl acetate) so all vitamin supplements are not created equal. This is chemistry.For instance Synthetic beta-carotene (Vitamin A) consists of just the “all-trans” isomer (form of compound with different atomic arrangement) of the nutrient, whereas natural beta-carotene (such as in MultiForma) consists of two different isomers, “9-cis” and “all-trans.” Isomers have the same molecular formula, but a different arrangement of atoms.

In 2000, NIH published a study analyzing potential dangers of the synthetic form as there is some debate in scientific circles.
It turns out that the natural 9-cis isomer is a more potent antioxidant than the all-trans, according to Ami Ben-Amotz, Ph.D., and Yishai Levy, Ph.D., in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (May 1996;63:729-34).

That means the natural form is more active, and has something the synthetic does not. Whereas the all-trans isomer could be easily measured as remaining in the blood, the 9-cis was not measurable, except by measuring the resulting activity of its active use in the body, meaning it was thoroughly absorbed and utilized unlike the all-trans isomer.

We believe the more natural and bioavailable a supplement is, the better, regardless of the cost to produce.
MultiForma is a professional grade product. Thus the dosages are not designed just to look good on the label, but to perform at their best in real use, based upon clinical science.* The levels in MultiForma were arrived at after years of careful research, to maximize the effectiveness of the synergistic properties of each component, and how it interacts with the others to maximize the effectiveness of the product.

Some, for instance may not understand a 1000-10,000+% of DV being included in a supplement product. Again, since Daily Value percentages are a very basic and minimal recommendation, these higher amounts of certain ingredients, are carefully calculated based upon current research, which takes much more into consideration than do these general minimums. These levels are beneficial and do not pose any risk or concern, and actually distinguish Multiforma, as being on par with, or even better, when compared with the finest medical grade supplements available.

Thus when considering MultiForma, realize it is in a different class than the average offering, being designed originally for medical professionals who are keenly aware of the body’s chemistry.

While some products can appear to be comprehensive with moderate and “recommended” levels of everything, having disproportionate or equal levels of multiple ingredients, may seem good, but can actually cause competition between them in the digestion process. This causes many nutrients to be prevented from even being absorbed, and thus unusable. This can really defeat the purpose if taking a multivitamin at all.

Why is MultiForma™ a capsule, instead of a tablet? Aren’t most multis tablets? Is it because they are cheaper to make?

Actually there are many reasons for this choice. First of all, it is not less expensive to manufacture capsules.

The patented formulas we use also cost more to make.

Tablets are generally faster and cheaper to make and due to the processing and binders, coatings etc, and have a longer shelf life.

This often makes them more affordable for consumers, thus prices tend to be lower.

However, a multivitamin is not something you want to lay around a long time. Manufacturers are ok with that and it can be ok for some products, because it means they can produce more and keep them longer to sell. However this length of time can affect potency. Capsules have been shown to be easier to swallow, and have less issues with bad taste, since the ingredients are inside a protective physical shell.Capsules are more bioavailable, (especially the active components of MultiForma) meaning the ingredients are more quickly assimilated into the bloodstream to be utilized.

This is because once the outer shell dissolves, the ingredients are more easily and quickly dissolved and absorbed into your body, since there are no binders to slow the process.

Bioavailability is very important, because it determines how much of the multivitamin is actually used and not wasted by being excreted by the body as waste. The forms of vitamins and minerals also determine bioavailability.

Some tablets have been shown to resist dissolving due to the binders and coatings used to compress and keep the tablet together. There is a delicate dance between keeping it together as a tablet, and making sure it will dissolve.

Since the whole point of taking a multivitamin is to get nutrients into your system, we did not feel restricting the absorption with additional processing and binders was warranted or recommended for this product.

Why do I see Amazon.com reviewers say it’s an odd or questionable formulation?

It’s because biochemistry is a complex science. You will notice, there are no reports of upset stomach, bad flavors, or other negative effects. That speaks volumes.
The questions are about why things are included, others not, and why the levels are different than other supplements.
While it is more complex here are some basics:

You shouldn’t take vitamin C and D with Vitamin A and B12 at the same time. These compete for absorption and can sabotage the benefits of taking them. Many Multis have these together, so the numbers look good to the layperson.

You shouldn’t take Vitamin A and E with Vitamin K and D. Same reason.

You shouldn’t take Calcium with Zinc, Magnesium and Manganese. Same reason.

You also shouldn’t take more than 500mg of Calcium at one time according to Linus Pauling Institute at OSU.

You should take Calcium, Vitamin D and Vitamin C at a different time than your multi, perhaps 2 or more hours difference, to maximize benefit.

Cyanocobalamin is not nearly as good as Methylcobalamin, for B12, and Folic Acid is synthetic and is not an active Folate, and can be ineffective or even harmful according to the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition in 2017.

Your body may absorb only 10mcg of B12 out of 500mcg according to research.

Synthetic Vitamin A as Beta-Carotene is less effective and can be harmful, according to research, but natural Beta-carotene such as in MultiForma, is a biologically active antioxidant that is not harmful.

Synthetic is never better than natural, but they are also potentially harmful.

There are many examples of this, which is why formulas are based upon nutrition science and not merely Daily Value numbers, which don’t explain the complex biochemistry involved.

That’s why qualified scientists are the ones doing the formulation because they understand the science. Reading an FDA Daily Values guide does not provide enough information to make an educated statement about a biochemical formula. Show the formula to a Doctor, biochemist, nutritionist, or anyone who has a formal education in Nutrition, and they may have slightly differing views about specifics, but none would have scientific basis for thinking this formula is anything but one of the best available at any price. Compare to Thorne Research, Pure Encapsulations which are some of the best sellers on Amazon.com. Also compare to Metagenics, Ortho Molecular, Standard Process, and other reputable companies and you will find it is at least as good if not a better formulation, with the same or superior components.

Why is there so much Bitamin B12?

 

B12 is a vitamin that is difficult for many to absorb, depending on intrinsic factor which is a glycoprotein secreted in the gastric mucosa. A large percentage of the population has low or deficient levels of this critical vitamin.

Having more bioavailable B12 makes it more likely a good amount can pass through in digestion.

Also research indicates that due to B12 being so necessary for so many functions, particularly neurological, higher than Daily Value levels will result it better health outcomes.*(1)

Most professional grade multivitamins have similar amounts, sometimes even more than double. The science consistently shows this is beneficial and in no way harmful.

1. J Neurol Sci. 1994 Apr;122(2):140-3. doi: 10.1016/0022-510x(94)90290-9. Department of Neurology, Kyoto University Hospital, Japan.

One review says potassium ascorbate, like you have in this product, is prohibited in the us, is this true?

Potassium ascorbate was used in dietary supplements prior to the passage of DSHEA (Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act) in October 1994. This would classify it as a grandfathered dietary ingredient permitted for use in dietary supplements today.

It may be prohibited as a food additive the US and UK, but it is still sold as a supplement and is approved in most countries even as a food additive.
The only reason given for it being prohibited is not that it is harmful, but that the US and UK don’t recognize the research that has been reviewed by them to be complete enough to fully determine its benefits or potential harm.

Most other countries and health professionals feel differently.

Potassium ascorbate is a salt derived from vitamin C that is totally non-toxic and free from side effects. It provides a biologically available form of potassium and vitamin C, both of which are essential nutrients. In addition to general antioxidant activity attributed to this nutrient, according one of the champions of this unique nutrient, Dr. Gianfrancesco Valsè Pantellini, of the Valsè Pantellini Foundation, “potassium ascorbate can effectively serve on the level of prevention (of imbalances in potassium and sodium in the cell), maintaining constant intracellular potassium levels.”* “Preventive intake of potassium ascorbate therefore has the objective to protect the cell from the risk of degeneration.”*Proper levels of potassium and sodium are essential in maintaining the intracellular (inside the cell) and extracellular (outside the cell) water balance which has a significant effect on a persons general wellness and health according to research*[1]

Excessive Potassium can be harmful or even fatal in massive doses, as with many normally safe compounds, but Potassium is essential and does not represent or form any risk in amounts as tiny as that included in MultiForma, particularly compared to the much higher recommended daily allowance (RDA) as recommended by the European Scientific commission which is 3,500 milligrams a day.

1. Physiology, Water Balance Oct 9, 2021
Abraham Tobias; Brian D. Ballard; Shamim S. Mohiuddin.Affiliations1 The City University of New York (CUNY) School of Medicine, New York, NY

2. McLaren Macomb Hospital

3. Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam.

Why are the ingredient percentages so different than my current multivitamin? like a and b? and calcium and d?

The formulation of MultiForma™ is carefully considered based upon up to date nutrition science. FDA daily values are considered a bare minimum for persons in good health already, just to prevent deficiency, and do not consider research findings on societal deficiencies that already exist. MultiForma is also not a bargain supplement.

For instance, vitamin B12 is one of the most complex and necessary vitamin compounds. It is required for integrity of myelin (the insulating layer around nerves), neuron function, proper red blood cell formation and DNA synthesis, which promote good physical and even mental health. However it’s also one characteristically deficient in most people, even those taking a supplement. This is because it is difficult to absorb for many, and modern food production and preparation depletes this vitamin in our normal diet.

Also, the most common form in supplements, cyanocobalamin, is actually not directly useable by the body, not “bioavailable”, and is more readily excreted in the urine, being largely wasted. It is used in most inexpensive supplements because it is inexpensive to make, even if ineffective.
In contrast, Methylcobalamin (the form we use) is the active form that can immediately be used and is less likely to be wasted, but is more expensive to produce, thus not found in bargain supplements.

B12 is not actively synthesized in the body so requires an external source which is why vegetarians and vegans are particularly deficient due to its being found primarily in animal products. The concentrations in MultiForma are well under frequently used therapeutic levels determined safe by numerous studies, including NIH.com which indicate B12 is generally considered safe and has very low potential for toxicity even at very high therapeutic levels, some as high as 1500 mcg daily or 6 times the levels in Multiforma™.

Pantothenic acid is important for our bodies to properly use carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids and for healthy skin, hair and adrenal function. Pantothenic Acid is also involved in the production of heme (for red blood cells) and the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.* Too many functions to list. All cells require it.
While the bare minimum DV is 5-10mg, again this is for healthy people already having normal levels, and is not to promote better health, but to prevent deficiency. Preventing deficiency is vastly different than promoting better health outcomes, and numerous studies including some listed in the National Library of Medicine on NIH.com show this.*

One study indicated “Ca D-pantothenate accelerates the wound healing process by increasing the number of migrating cells, their distance and hence their speed. In addition, cell division is increased and the protein synthesis changed. These results suggest that higher quantities of pantothenate are locally required to enhance wound healing.” This study recommended far higher dosage, and many separate Pantothenic acid supplements are available starting at the 100mg already available in MultiForma™.

Some vitamins and minerals such as D3 and Calcium you mentioned in particular, are synergistic in their absorption and usage, vitamin D helping in the use of calcium. While these nutrients are critical, Iron, zinc and calcium can interfere with each other’s absorption if the concentration of any particular mineral is too high. The levels required to be most useful are fairly high, or 2-4000 IU of D3 or 1-2000+mg of Calcium (no more than 500mg at one time according to Linus Pauling Institute at OSU).* A multivitamin is meant as a foundation, and not a comprehensive tool, for these reasons these are often better supplemented separately and even at different times of day, as needed on an individual basis for best results.

Is the vitamin A in MultiForma animal sourced as one reviewer says?

No. It is chemically synthesized. These are vegetarian capsules so it would seem contrary to this to include an animal sourced ingredient.
However it is the most bioavailable form of the vitamin and is also called “preformed” vitamin A because it is ready for the body to use unlike beta-carotene which must be converted.

We use both to allow for immediate use of the preformed Retinyl Palmitate, and give the body more beta carotene from natural sources (which is much better than synthetic beta carotene) in case more is needed, the the conversion can take place.

One must not make assumptions when deciding what the ingredients of a supplement are or what they do. As mentioned in some of the other questions, the form a vitamin comes in is a very important part of its value as a supplement and what it will do once you take it inside your body.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.