A method and composition for stimulating the proliferation and differentiation of stem cells is used to self-repair injury in mammals. A supplement is administered having an effective dose of blueberry, carnosine, catechin, green tea extract, VITABLUE.RTM. blueberry extract, Vitamin D3 or combinations of these. For example, a therapeutic amount of two or more of the supplements may be selected having a synergistic effect, allowing a lower dose to achieve the same or greater effective protection as a higher dose of any one of the supplements.