How do I order Metagenics nutritional products?
Metagenics formulas are only available through licensed healthcare practitioners. Patients may find a practitioner.

How do I find a Metagenics practitioner near me?
Simply click here to locate a health care practitioner near you who offers Metagenics nutraceuticals and medical foods or to find a certified FirstLine Therapy practitioner who offers therapeutic lifestyle changes programs.

How do I contact Metagenics?
If you have questions about a specific Metagenics product or how to use it, please consult your health care practitioner. For other questions or comments, please Contact us Online.

What makes Metagenics different from most nutritional supplement companies?
A lot of things make us stand above other companies—a focus on patient health, quality manufacturing, ingredient testing, safety reviews, clinical testing, scientific research, unique formulas, and more. For specifics, check out the Quality Difference section.

What is detoxification?
Detoxification is the elimination of toxins from the body that we are exposed to externally from environmental sources, and internally from products generated by ongoing, normal daily cellular processes. Your liver is the principal player in detoxification, and the UltraClear, UltraClear PLUS, and UltraClear Plus pH (as well as UltraClear MACRO and UltraMeal RICE functional foods) are designed to give this organ, as well as other tissues, nutritional support for the detoxification process.

Why do I need a detoxification program?
Today, we are all exposed to toxins in the foods we eat, the air we breathe, and the water we drink. In addition, we produce toxins within our bodies in the processes of digestion and elimination, combating disease and infection, and dealing with stress.

What is unique about UltraClear medical foods?
UltraClear and UltraClear PLUS are patented medical foods specifically designed for the nutritional support of detoxification. No other medical food product on the market has been patented for this use. These products are powdered beverage drink mixes that contain specific amounts and types of protein, carbohydrates, and fats that are easily absorbed and utilized. A specific core of nutrients and phytonutrients are added to help nutritionally support important detoxification activities. UltraClear Plus pH also has a patent pending.

What is the difference between UltraClear and UltraClear PLUS?
UltraClear was developed initially and is used more in individuals with problems associated with Phase I (cytochrome P450) detoxification issues. UltraClear PLUS was developed to give additional nutritional support for individuals with Phase II (conjugation) detoxification problems. Both are supported by published research. Your health care practitioner will determine which of these two medical foods is best for you, or if you should take UltraClear MACRO, UltraMeal RICE, and/or a nutraceutical instead.

What is the difference between UltraClear PLUS and UltraClear Plus pH?
UltraClear PLUS medical food is designed for those with imbalanced detoxification capacity, or low Phase II activity, who exhibit a urinary pH above 6.6. Such a condition may lead to a build-up of stored toxins and subsequent increase in symptoms and/or tissue damage. UltraClear Plus pH offers the same macro- and micronutrient profile as UltraClear PLUS, with added nutrients to promote an alkaline urinary pH status and enhance Phase II activity for those with a urinary pH below 6.6. An altered urinary pH level may negatively impact the individual's ability to excrete toxins out of the body.

Would the program be helpful for a person who has recently undergone repeated antibiotic therapy?
Yes. Medications like antibiotics may place an added burden on your body's detoxification systems. Your health care practitioner may recommend starting with UltraClear SUSTAIN® and/or introducing a source of acidophilus or bifidobacteria culture to support healthy intestinal flora and digestion following the use of antibiotics.

Is this an appropriate program for children?
No. This program should not be used for infants or children under the age of 12. The product's nutritional content is based on adult RDIs, and no testing in children has been performed. However, under the supervision of a health care practitioner, the beverages may be appropriate as a meal supplement for children over 12. Your practitioner must help you decide if and how the product may be used with your child.

Can I follow this program if I am diabetic or hypoglycemic?
Probably, but you should make this decision with the guidance of your health care practitioner. Discussing integration of the detoxification program into your prescribed dietary program is necessary to avoid upsetting your glucose/insulin balance.

Can I go on this program if I am pregnant or nursing?
No. UltraClear products have been tested in these conditions; therefore, this program is not recommended for use at these times.

How many canisters of the beverage product will be needed for a 28-day program?
If you are following the program servings exactly, you will need 3 canisters of UltraClear or UltraClear PLUS (21 servings/canister). You will need 5 canisters of UltraClear MACRO or UltraMeal RICE (14 servings/canister). If taking AdvaClear® as part of the program, you will need 1 large size bottle (126 capsules) of this product.

These products seem expensive. Why is this?
UltraClear products are made from the highest quality ingredients and manufactured with exacting standards. They are also guaranteed for freshness and potency. Although they may seem expensive, because the beverages can be used as a meal replacement, many people actually find their grocery bills decrease substantially while on the program.

How long do I need to remain on this program?
That really depends on your health goals. Clinical experience suggests that patients usually experience benefit within four weeks of following the program. Together, you and your health care practitioner can decide to continue the program as is, or to implement a modified version of the program for a longer period of time.

Should I discontinue prescription medications while on this program?
No. Your health care practitioner should carefully monitor your medications. The decision to change a prescription medication in any way can only be made in conjunction with your health care practitioner.

Can I take supplements while on this program?
These products contain therapeutic levels of carefully selected nutrients. Since some other supplements may contain ingredients that could interfere with the program, we suggest following the recommendations of your health care practitioner.

Can I exercise while I'm on this program?
Yes. However, strenuous or prolonged exercise may be reduced during this program if you are restricting calories. You can gain benefit from an exercise program as simple as 30 minutes of walking 3 times a week. You should follow the advice of your health care practitioner. Adequate rest and stress reduction are also important to the success of this program.

Can I substitute other products on this program?
No. While other "copycat" formulations exist, UltraClear, UltraClear PLUS, and UltraClear Plus pH (as well as UltraClear MACRO and UltraMeal RICE functional foods) are made from an exclusive rice protein concentrate. The ingredients are carefully selected and the formulas scientifically designed to ensure the highest quality products possible. Because the products are unique and supported by years of clinical and research experience, recommendations in the Patient Guide apply only to these products.

How are the UltraClear medical foods different from the other Metagenics medical food products?
UltraClear, UltraClear PLUS, and UltraClear Plus pH are medical foods specifically designed for the nutritional management of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). These formulas are designed to address certain imbalances in the body that create the symptoms associated with CFS. Your health care practitioner chose the medical food he or she recommended to you based on your individual, underlying problems.

Can I use these products at the same time as other Metagenics medical foods?
Possibly. Your health care practitioner will determine which products and programs are best suited to your individual needs.

Do I have to mix UltraClear, UltraClear PLUS, UltraClear Plus pH, UltraClear MACRO, or UltraMeal RICE with water?
UltraClear, UltraClear PLUS, UltraClear Plus pH, UltraClear MACRO, and UltraMeal RICE are designed to be mixed with water. However, your health care practitioner may suggest other mixing instructions such as the recipes in the Patient Guide.

What is the "grit" in the bottom of the glass of mixed product?
These products are well blended during manufacturing, but a small amount of mineral remains insoluble in the final powder. It is harmless and well absorbed by the body. As you finish drinking it, stir your beverage briskly to get the insoluble minerals into suspension.

What can I use as a sweetener?
We have listed some accepted natural sweeteners on the Basic Dietary Guidelines chart. One of those options is stevia. Stevia is a dietary supplement often used as a natural, herbal sweetener that appears to have no negative effects on detoxification. It is many times sweeter than table sugar. Stevia is found in most health food stores and is available as a white powder or liquid and can be used in cooking or added directly to foods. However, if you normally crave sweet foods, you should avoid all sweeteners including stevia in order to give your taste buds a chance to appreciate naturally sweet foods such as fruits, carrots, tomatoes, etc.

Is it possible to lose weight on this program?
Yes, especially if you mix your powdered beverage in water and eat the minimum amounts of the other listed foods, while making sure to drink lots of water. Incidentally, edema (water retention) can be a sign that the body needs detoxification. Some individuals may lose 2 to 5 pounds of fluid weight during their first few days on the program. Since these products are not intended to be used as part of a weight loss or weight management program, you should discuss your calorie needs and weight goals with your health care practitioner.

Will I be hungry on this program?
Depending on what weight goals you and your health care practitioner decide upon, some caloric restriction may be part of your program. Your health care practitioner may also decide to place you on the program without any calorie restrictions. Even on the lower calorie program, many people experience no increase in hunger. If you experience extreme hunger, discuss possible adjustments in your program with your practitioner.

Can I use canned vegetables instead of fresh vegetables with this diet?
Fresh and frozen vegetables retain more of their vitamins and generally have less added salt. If they are unavailable, purchase canned vegetables without added salt or fat. Canned beans and legumes are generally acceptable.

What is the best way to wash fruits and vegetables to eliminate toxins?
Washing produce in a dilute solution of dish soap, and rinsing thoroughly, works well for some fruits and vegetables.

I notice there are legumes in this dietary program. My digestive system doesn't handle legumes very well. What can I do?
Legumes are desirable because they are high in protein and fiber but low in fat. Here are a few suggestions that may increase your tolerance:

• Increase your intake slowly over the course of 2-3 weeks.
• Try soaking the beans for half an hour before cooking them and discard the water.
• Experiment-you may find that certain legumes work better for you than others (lentils, for example, are often easy for many people to tolerate).
• Try an enzymatic aid that's taken with the meal. Your health care practitioner can recommend an appropriate formula. These aids can be quite helpful; however, some people have found that a larger dose than the one suggested on the package is required.

Can I use salt while I am on this diet?
Generally we over-salt our food. We suggest that you use salt sparingly, or not at all. If you have been advised to restrict your salt intake, look for salt-free products whenever you use canned or processed foods in the diet. There are many good salt-free seasonings on the market. Your local health food store offers a variety of these products.

What additional spices or flavorings can I use?
Seasonings can enhance the natural flavors of food without added butter, margarine, or salt. There is an abundant array of herbs and spices that can add flavor and variety to foods. They have practically no calories and can be used in endless combinations. Ask your health care practitioner for suggestions or experiment yourself with the list of herbs and spices we have provided on the Foods to Include list in the Patient Guide.

What if I need additional fiber?
On a nutritional program that involves liquid supplementation, some patients may experience a change in bowel habits. Clinical experience has shown that for some people, an additional fiber supplement may reduce symptoms of diarrhea or constipation. An oligoantigenic (low-allergy potential) fiber supplement, such as MetaFiber®, may be useful in these situations. MetaFiber is a blend of insoluble and soluble fibers. Each serving provides 7 grams of fiber. The National Cancer Institute recommends 20-35 grams of fiber per day.

Can I drink coffee and tea?
Caffeine has been eliminated from the dietary program as it can have a significant negative affect on detoxification. Decaffeinated coffee still has a small amount of caffeine, so consuming this is a decision best left up to you and your health care practitioner. Many herbal teas are naturally decaffeinated and can add variety and flavor to your program.

Do any of these products contain caffeine or other stimulants?
UltraMeal RICE Chocolate flavor has ~20 mg of caffeine per serving. To put that in perspective, a cup of brewed coffee generally contains 150 mg of caffeine, so the amount of caffeine in UltraMeal products are probably too low to significantly affect most people. UltraMeal RICE Vanilla flavor has no caffeine.

Could I be allergic or intolerant to any UltraClear medical food product?
Any drug, nutritional supplement, additive, medical food, or food product has the potential to cause an allergic reaction. If you know you are allergic to any of the ingredients contained in any of these products, you should not consume it.

Can I take these products if I have a sensitivity to rice?
Possibly. The rice protein concentrate in the products has undergone a process to enhance its nutritional properties and remove the most common allergy-causing components. The result is a highly nutritious rice protein that many rice-sensitive individuals can tolerate. However, everyone's level of sensitivity is different. Discuss possible rice sensitivity with your health care practitioner before use, and be alert to any symptoms that may arise from this sensitivity.

Can I use this program if I am gluten and dairy-sensitive?
Yes. All the products in this program are formulated without wheat, gluten or dairy products.

UltraClear, UltraClear PLUS, UltraClear Plus pH, UltraClear MACRO, or UltraMeal RICE is my primary source of protein. Could I become sensitized to it?
These products should not result in food intolerance. Due to the very low allergy potential of rice protein concentrate relative to other grain proteins, these products have been well tolerated by individuals who have previously had sensitivity to grain-based proteins.

What should I eat when I've completed the program?
Once you have reached your health goals, you and your health care practitioner should reassess your program and progress. Together you should determine the next step, whether that be taking other supplements or medical foods, making other dietary changes, or continuing to use these products. A long-term maintenance plan that may include the dietary program recommended in this booklet can help you maintain the health improvements that you've made. The dietary portion of the program is well-balanced and nutrient-dense, and therefore acceptable for long-term use.

How often may I use the products and programs?
You may go on the 28-day program as often as every few months, if recommended by your health care practitioner.