Sometime ago I was prompted to do my research into the therapeutic benefits of gelatin after a customer who was suffering from terrible joint pain, delightedly told me she had been able to reduce her intake of pain killers from 8 to 2 a day after supplementing her diet with gelatin. As you can imagine I found it absolutely amazing that a food source such as gelatin could have such positive results.
It is believed the collagen contained in gelatin has a beneficial effect in repairing cartilage and other connective tissue around the joints. Gelatin in fact comes from the protein collagen found inside animal bones and cartilage. It is the principal protein utilised by the body to construct the cartilage which covers the bones in our joints. When we ingest gelatin, a percentage of this collagen contained in gelatin will assimilate into the joint cartilage. It’s obviously a slow process to rebuild this cartilage however the anti-inflammatory and pain relief from ingesting gelatin is far quicker with some finding a similar effect as pharmaceutical pain relief. The collagen contained in gelatin contains amino acids such as glycine, proline, alanine and hydroproxyproline which have great anti-inflammatory properties which also helps with increasing flexibility and mobility.
Gelatin is also high in protein – in fact hydrolysed collagen gelatin is 96% protein which is also helpful for muscle growth. As we age it is more difficult to maintain and build muscle which means supplementing with hydrolysed gelatin collagen would be a great way to maintain muscle mass. It is also helpful if we are exercising and particularly if trying to build and tone muscle.
Bone health and treatment and prevention of osteoporosis is another health issue which may be helped with hydrolysed gelatin collagen. By boosting the nutrient absorption of bone-building nutrients such as Vitamin K2, Vitamin D,
Calcium, Zinc, Magnesium and other essential nutrients, hydrolysed gelatin collagen is believed to be helpful in building healthy bones. Our bones are living tissue requiring vital nutrients to remain healthy otherwise they will weaken and die.
In contrast to our modern-day diet, traditional diets contained much more collagen and gelatin. These traditional diets included parts of the animal which were high in gelatin such as tendons, skin, bones, cartilage, and other gelatinous cuts of meat. Today we eat mainly muscle meats which are comprised of another type of protein, and this means our bodies are deficient in the collagen and gelatin-based proteins.
Bone broths have become very popular because the animal bones used in these broths are packed with collagen which then turns to gelatin when simmered in hot water. If you don’t have the time or desire to make bone broth, we do sell bone broth in our store.
I would also suggest supplementing your diet with gelatin powder. Not all gelatin powder is the same. We stock a premium grade collagen hydrolysate beef gelatin as well as marine collagen which is cold water soluble, unflavoured and mixes well in juice or any other beverages. The low molecular weight of this hydrolysed collagen powder enables higher absorption.
For more information on the benefits of hydrolysed collagen gelatin or any other health issue call to see Bev and the team at Go Vita your health shop at 5 North St, Batemans Bay, or phone on 44729737. Don’t forget to tune into Bev on 2EC every Wednesday at 12.45pm.
]]>This malabsorption can in time result in nutritional deficiencies, causing long term complications. If left untreated there is a chance of developing malnutrition and other complications, especially in children because obviously they need adequate nutrition to develop properly.
So why does this happen? When foods containing gluten are eaten, the immune system responds by damaging the small intestine. Normally our small intestine is lined with tiny hair-like projections call villi which absorb vitamins, minerals and other nutrients from the food we eat. If we suffer from coeliac disease there is damage to the villi and our small intestine is unable to digest and absorb nutrients necessary for health and growth. Instead, nutrients such as fat, protein, vitamins, and minerals are eliminated with our stools. As you can imagine this is extremely detrimental to our health.
The signs and symptoms of coeliac disease include weight loss or weight gain, diarrhoea with foul smelling or pale stools which may be fatty or oily, abdominal cramps, gas and bloating plus general weakness and lethargy.
Coeliac Australian claim 1 in 70 Australians are believed to suffer from coeliac disease. Alarmingly it’s believed only about 20% of these sufferers are actually diagnosed.
Symptoms of coeliac disease can be very similar to other health conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulitis, intestinal infections, or anaemia. Sometimes coeliac patients don’t experience any of these symptoms but still experience damage to their small intestine. This is often called silent coeliac disease.
Because of this, unfortunately, diagnosis is often overlooked. It is therefore very important to obtain a proper diagnosis with a doctor which will usually mean a blood test and sometimes a biopsy of the small intestine.
So how do we treat this disease? Obviously, it is imperative to avoid gluten. Gluten is a protein found in many grains including wheat, barley, rye, spelt, triticale and oats.
Most people who follow a gluten free diet respond very well and symptoms are only triggered again if they eat something containing gluten. Generally, improvements will be noticed within days of starting a gluten free diet however it takes time for the small intestine to heal - usually 3 - 6 months for children and up to 2 years for adults. The small intestine can then properly absorb nutrients which is obviously extremely important for optimum good health. If you have been diagnosed with coeliac disease and don't experience these symptoms after eating small amounts of gluten, you can still be damaging the small intestines. It is therefore imperative for coeliacs to realise a gluten free diet is a lifetime requirement.
Of course, the first question when being diagnosed is - what can I eat? Believe me there are now many options out there. Thirty three years ago, when I owned my first health food store we were scrambling to find gluten free products for customers. Today the range is ever expanding. You can still of course eat the basic foods such as meat, fish, poultry, dairy products, fruits, and vegetables.
Grains and seeds such as rice, soy, buckwheat, millet, amaranth, quinoa, arrowroot, flaxseed, hemp seeds and chia seeds can be used instead of those commonly used grains containing gluten. There are many products available that are labelled 'gluten free' such as breads, cereals, pastas, biscuits, cakes and gravies. It is also very important to become a 'label reader" as you would be surprised how many products do contain gluten. Wheat is often used as a filler in processed foods and of course wheat contains gluten.
When suffering from coeliac disease it may be worthwhile taking a good gut healing supplement. I’ve often written about formulas containing the amino acid glutamine for healing the gut lining as well as herbs such as aloe vera, slippery elm, licorice, and calendula to also help with gut healing and inflammation. A probiotic is also important to increase the healthy bacteria in the gut. Drinking bone broth would be another great way to help heal the gut. Choosing a bone broth powder or paste which contains turmeric and ginger would be even more beneficial.
It is also important be aware, sometimes results of a test for coeliac disease will be negative, however you may still be suffering from a gluten intolerance. Very often removing gluten from your diet will majorly help those symptoms such as diarrhoea, bloating, abdominal cramps and lethargy.
For further information on this subject or other health issues call down to see Bev and the girls at Go Vita, Your Health Shop at 5 North St, Batemans Bay or phone 0244711683. Don’t forget to tune into Bev on 2EC every Wednesday at 12.45pm.
]]>We all know probiotics are the good bacteria we need for good gut health however it’s interesting to note our body contains more than 500 different probiotic strains. Yes, this can make choosing a probiotic very confusing. Researchers are now finding certain individual strains can be more relevant to specific health conditions.
I thought it therefore may be worthwhile this week to write a little about some of the various strains of probiotics.
We now know gut health can be a contributor to stress, anxiety and depression. It has been found that the strain Bifidobacterium longum is the strain beneficial for stress, anxiety and mild depression. The probiotic strain Lactobacillus Rhamnosus is also believed to be one the more effective strains in the treatment of this health problem. The bonus is, it’s also believed to be helpful for treatment and prevention of allergies, lactose intolerance, diarrhea, constipation and inflammatory bowel disease.
As well as Lactobacillus Rhamnosus, Lactobacillus Casei is believed to be effective in treatment and prevention of allergies as well as immune enhancement.
Lactobacillus acidophilus is probably the best-known probiotic strain, helping to maintain good immune health as well as controlling the growth of yeast infections such as Candida albicans. It is also important in maintaining the balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut and is the strain we find in fermented dairy products such as yoghurt.
Lactobacillus plantarum is one of the most important strains because it is thought to help to control inflammation in the gut, particularly IBS, as well as protecting the gut wall preventing leaky gut. It is also believed to be very effective in digesting protein which is helpful in preventing food allergies as well as eradicating pathogenic bacteria and viruses. It is the strain found in sauerkraut, fermented vegetables and sourdough bread.
Another interesting strain is Bifidobacterium longum which is one of the first strains to colonize our bodies during birth. This strain has also been linked to preventing food allergies, lactose intolerance plus diarrhea.
Lactobacillus Salivarius is important because it supplies certain enzymes and nutrients which help repair the intestinal tract. It’s also believed to help clear layered faecal matter from the colon as well as help with digestion and absorption of food.
I could go on and on listing the various strains however it is important to note taking just one strain of probiotic will not be sufficient to colonize the gut which is why most probiotic supplements contain several strains of probiotics. Generally, the small intestine benefits from the Lactobacillus strains and the large intestine from the Bifidobacterium strains. For some strains to be effective they need to attach to the lining of the gut wall to enable the good bacteria to flourish and colonise the gut. Other strains will colonise in other parts of the gut or colonise the food as it passes through the digestive tract.
One of my preferred probiotic formulas also contains prebiotics. As I have written previously, probiotics and prebiotics work together to help the growth of our body’s healthy bacteria and support healthy digestion. Prebiotics are ‘non living’ food which reach the large intestine unaffected by digestion and feed the good bacteria. This is extremely important and sets this product apart from many other probiotic formulas as the probiotics provide the live active bacteria and the prebiotics provide the food for the probiotics’ survival.
For more information on probiotics and gut health call to see Bev and the team at Go Vita, Your Health Shop in North St in Batemans Bay or phone on 0244729737. Don’t forget to tune in to listen Bev on 2EC every Wednesday at 12.45pm.
]]>I often suggest a great way to kickstart our plan for good health is to look at a sensible detox programme. A detox should be a very sensible eating plan used in conjunction with a good detox supplement to help detox our body.
There are many programmes available and one of the more popular is a tasty berry detox powder which tastes great! and is easy to incorporate into our daily eating programme. It can be added to water, our favourite protein shake or even our greens powder. Over the past few years, I’ve found many customers have been reluctant to take lots of tablets which is often the case with detox programmes. I’m sure this is why this tasty powder is such a hit.
]]>There are many programmes available and one of the more popular is a tasty berry detox powder which tastes great! and is easy to incorporate into our daily eating programme. It can be added to water, our favourite protein shake or even our greens powder. Over the past few years, I’ve found many customers have been reluctant to take lots of tablets which is often the case with detox programmes. I’m sure this is why this tasty powder is such a hit.
This is a gentle naturopathic formula containing Vitamins B2 and C, Selenium and Zinc to help protect our cells from free radicals. It has extra B vitamins such as B6 and B12 to help with fatigue plus 5 amino acids (glutamine, glycine, methionine, cysteine and taurine). There are superfruit berries such as blackcurrant, passionfruit, lemon, blueberry, and pomegranate as well as beetroot. There are also herbs such as rosemary, Schisandra, artichoke, echinacea, acerola cherry, barberry, milk thistle, turmeric, green tea, ginger and black pepper.
Adding a good bowel formula, I believe can also be helpful when undertaking a detox. Something gentle like Motion Potion, which is a bowel tonic, not a laxative, would be great to add to this formula. Once again, it’s a powder so can easily be added to your berry powder.
We are often asked – when does a person need to go on a detox? The answer is simple – everybody should detox at least once or twice a year. Why wait until we get sick or feel sluggish before we take that step? Why not use detoxing as a preventative for illness? We think so highly of our motor vehicles, we have them serviced regularly, however, we expect our bodies to go on forever without the same tender loving care.
The other question often asked is what causes toxins to build up in our bodies so that we need to go on such a detox. There are many and varied reasons:
So, there you have it – five good reasons to detox. If you hadn’t been convinced before, you must surely be convinced now! Don’t wait until you become ill before you do something about nurturing your body. Take time out to give those poor organs a rest – fine-tune your body instead of your car for a change.
For tips on foods to eat and foods to avoid, ask about our detox booklet available in-store. For more information and recipes call down to chat to Bev and the girls at Go Vita your health shop at 5 North St, Batemans Bay.
]]>CHOC-CHERRY BANANA SMOOTHIE
Ingredients: 1 tbsp Hemp Foods Australia Natural Hemp Powder; 1 scoop Skinny Mocktail Choc-Berry Espresso powder; ¾ cup Milk Lab Almond Milk; 1 medium frozen banana.
Method: Blend all powders and milk together then add frozen banana. Blend until smooth and serve.
COCONUT PINEAPPLE SMOOTHIE
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups Milk Lab Coconut Milk, 1 frozen banana, 2 cups frozen pineapple, 1 tbsp Hemp Foods Australia Natural Hemp Protein, 1 scoop Skinny Mocktail Coconut-Pine powder.
Method: Blend all powders and milk together then add frozen fruit. Blend until smooth and serve.
MANGO COCONUT SMOOTHIE
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups Milk Lab Coconut Milk, 1 cup frozen mango, 1 frozen banana, 1 tbsp Hemp Foods Australia Natural Hemp Powder, 1 scoop Skinny Mocktail Peach-Mango powder.
Method: Blend all powders and milk together then add frozen fruit. Blend until smooth and serve.
MIXED BERRY SMOOTHIE
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups Milk Lab Almond Milk, 1 tbsp Hemp Foods Aust Natural Hemp Powder, 1 frozen banana, 1 ½ cups frozen mixed berries, 1 scoop Skinny Mocktail Melon Berry powder.
Method: Blend all powders and milk together then add frozen fruit. Blend until smooth and serve.
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I’ve often written about the health benefits of protein. Protein powders have become a very popular health supplement over the years. Initially, protein powders were thought to be only for bodybuilders wanting to bulk up and build muscle, however over time many have come to realise just how important protein is in our diet.
]]>There are many reasons why we require protein in our diet. It is important for tissue repair and the formation of new tissue plus our muscles, hair, nails, skin, and eyes are made of protein. The cells making up our liver, kidneys, heart, lungs, nerves, brain, and sex glands are made of protein. In fact, every cell in our body requires protein to maintain its life.
When we exercise it is even more important to consume protein as protein is required to repair and rebuild muscle plus maintain good muscle strength. We need to be aware that as we age it is more difficult for our bodies to build and maintain muscle.
Often if we find our nails are splitting, keep breaking or are slow growing, increasing protein in our diet may resolve the problem. Thinning, listless hair may also be resolved by increasing the protein in our diet. Sometimes skin that is aging prematurely may be helped by increasing protein in our diet.
With it now being obvious just how important protein is in our diet, we need to address how we can increase our protein intake. The reality is most of us eat nearly enough protein. Carbohydrates seem to rule these days when it comes to our diet. Obviously, we can increase our protein by eating more fish, chicken, dairy, eggs, red meat, legumes, tofu, and nuts. Often people will include a protein powder in their diet because it’s an easy way of consuming a concentrated form of protein.
There are many protein powders on the market. Previously the only protein powder available was whey protein, extracted from dairy. These days however our most popular protein powders are plant-based protein e.g., rice, pea, and hemp. Many find these protein powders much easier to digest.
Over the past few years hemp protein which is produced by grinding hemp seeds to a fine powder, has become extremely popular. Some would argue hemp protein is one of the best vegan protein powders available. It has a lovely nutty, earthy flavour and is great for adding to smoothies and general cooking. It is a complete protein with 20 amino acids including all 9 essential amino acids. It’s believed to contain more healthy omega fats being omega 3 and 6 fats in the perfect radio of 3:1. It contains more fibre than most protein powders. In fact, hemp protein powder contains approximately 8 grams of fibre per 30 grams which is much higher than other plant-based protein powders. This means by adding both protein and fibre to our diet we may feel fuller longer. Hemp protein is extremely rich in minerals, in particular magnesium and iron.
Hemp protein comes in several flavours including vanilla and chocolate. I generally like to use a natural hemp protein powder as I can then add my own flavours. Our new Skinny Mocktail range has now added lots of new and exciting options. I’ve found adding one of the mocktail powders has added a brand-new dimension to my daily smoothie. It means I can add lots of new and delicious flavours to my smoothies such as coconut-pine, choc-berry espresso, peach mango, melon berry and apple lychee.
In addition, I now benefit from all the great therapeutic ingredients in the mocktail powder. L-Carnitine, Bitter Orange, Grains of Paradise, Chromium Picolinate and White tea Powder for weight management. Inulin, L-Glutamine, Aloe Vera, Chamomile and Probiotics for gut and digestive health and L-Tyrosine, Schisandra and L-Theanine for focus and cognitive support. What a bonus!
So, if you want to take your smoothie to the next level, try some of these great combinations.
For more information and recipes call down to chat to Bev and the girls at Go Vita your health shop at 5 North St, Batemans Bay.
]]>Last week I wrote about the benefits of ingredients such as L-Carnitine, Bitter Orange, Grains of Paradise, Chromium Picolinate, White Tea Powder and Black pepper which have been included in these mocktail powders to assist in weight management. This week I’m expanding on these health benefits to include those ingredients included to help digestive support and focus and cognitive support.
Ingredients which may benefit Digestive Support include -
Inulin (Chicory Root) is a well-known prebiotic. We now know how important prebiotics are in our diet. By stimulating the growth of the good bacteria in our gut, prebiotics generally improve our gut health, improve digestion, relieve constipation and assist with other gut related health problems.
L-Glutamine is the amino acid I’m constantly writing about for maintaining good gut health. It helps with supporting normal growth and maintenance of our intestinal cells, as well as supporting our immune cells. L Glutamine is also thought to lessen fatigue and muscle soreness after exercise.
Aloe Vera Extract is another of my favourite supplements for gut health with its wonderful anti-inflammatory properties it is a must in a gut formula.
Chamomile as we know has great calming properties, not only assisting with reducing anxiety and helping with insomnia, but also acting as a digestive relaxant, aiding our gut health.
Bacillus Coagulans (Probiotic Lactospore) is a probiotic with various health benefits, however, is particularly beneficial for improving digestion, improving gut health enabling better nutrient absorption.
Ingredients which may assist in Focus and Cognitive Support include -
L-Tyrosine is another beneficial amino acid included which may improve cognitive function plus reduce stress. It is important for production of several necessary brain chemicals which may be beneficial for enhancing alertness, focus and memory.
Schisandra is an adaptogen herb which is often claimed to act like a tonic to our brain enhancing focus, concentration and memory. It may also aid adrenal function thereby increasing energy, plus reduce stress and fatigue.
L-Theanine is mainly found in black and green tea. This amino acid may assist in improving focus and attention plus reduce stress and anxiety. This may well be why enjoying a cup of tea helps us relax and feel a little more chilled.
So not only do we gain the health benefits of drinking our alcohol free mocktail, but we also gain these other health benefits PLUS these mocktails are super delicious!! with flavours such as Coconut-Pine Swirl, Choc-Berry Espresso, Melon-Berry Bliss, Peach-Mango Crush, Apple-Lychee Cooler.
]]>1 serve Skinny Mocktail Melon-Berry Breeze Powder; Sparkling Mineral Water; Lime and Mint Leaves
Method:
Crush lime and mint leaves into your glass. Add Skinny Mocktail Melon-Berry Bliss Powder, add sparkling mineral water and stir well. Top with mint leaves.
]]>As I mentioned last week, these mocktails are extremely tasty and very affordable at around $2.20 per mocktail serving. The mocktail powders contain a range of herbs, minerals and amino acids which may also be helpful for weight management and digestive support. There are also ingredients that may help with stress, anxiety, and cognitive function. These ingredients include L-carnitine, Bitter Orange, Grains of Paradise, Chromium Picolinate, White Tea Powder, Black Pepper Extract, Inulin, L-glutamine, Aloe Vera, Chamomile, Probiotics, L-Tyrosine, Schisandra, and L-Theanine. What a bonus!! Not only are these mocktails healthy because they are alcohol-free, they also contain some great health benefits AND they come in delicious flavours.
Ingredients that may benefit Weight Management Support include –
L-carnitine is an amino acid often included in natural weight-loss products. It plays an important role in generating energy for our cells and is believed to assist in conveying fatty acids into our cells’ mitochondria, which enables fatty acids to be burned for energy. It’s thought supplementation with L-carnitine may assist in fat burning. One review of 37 studies concluded taking 2000mg L-Carnitine per day could assist in reducing body weight, BMI and fat mass, especially in overweight/obese adults. (1) Another meta-analysis of six studies found L-Carnitine could reduce body weight, BMI and belly fat in people with polycystic ovary syndrome. The results found L-Carnitine significantly decreased total cholesterol, low-density and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, triglycerides, body weight, body mass index, hip circumference and waist circumference. (2) L-carnitine may also be beneficial in enhancing exercise performance and assisting in post-exercise recovery.
Bitter Orange is extracted from the bitter orange peel and is frequently used in herbal weight loss supplements and has been believed for some time to contain thermogenic properties, increasing energy and assisting with weight loss.
Grains of Paradise is an interesting spice related to the ginger plant. This spice is once again believed to increase metabolism which may aid in weight loss. It is also thought to contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Chromium Picolinate is a mineral I have often written about to assist in weight loss and sugar cravings. This mineral has been found to regulate blood sugar levels, helping to reduce sugar cravings and assist in weight management as well as lessen the risk of diabetes.
White Tea Powder is not only high in antioxidants but also may be beneficial in boosting metabolism, aiding our body to burn fat thereby helping with weight management. There is a belief also that polyphenols which are found in white tea may also lessen the risk of insulin resistance helping with the control of blood sugar.
Inulin (Chicory Root) is a prebiotic, which apart from being hugely beneficial for our gut health is also believed to assist in regulating blood sugar and insulin resistance. Inulin may be beneficial in aiding with weight loss by not only reducing sugar cravings, it has also been found to make us feel more fuller, meaning we are feeling less hungry.
Black Pepper Extract (Bioperine) is included in the formula to assist in the absorption of these nutrients, helping to increase the bioavailability of ingredients.
1. Effect of l-carnitine supplementation on weight loss and body composition: A systematic review and met-analysis of 37 randomized controlled clinical trials with dose-response analysis. Nasir Talenazhad, Mohammad Mohammadi, Nahid Ramezani-Jolfai, Hassan Mozaffari-Khosravi, Amin Salehi-Abargouei Clin Nutr ESPEn 2020 June:37:9-23. Doi 10.1016/j.clnesp.2020.03.008 Epub 2020 Apr 18.
2. Clinical evidence of the effects of carnitine supplementation on bodyweight, glycemic control and serum lipids in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
3. Dan Liao, Xiamei Liu, Xiuying Yuan, Poling Feng, Zhiwei Ouyang, Yanyan Liu, Cuifen Li Meta Analysis Gynecol Endocrinol 2022 Feb, 38(2):110-115. Doi: 10.1080/09513590.2021.1988559.Epub 2021 Oct 11
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Ingredients – 1 Skinny Mocktail Coconut-Pine Swirl Powder; 2 tbsp fresh lime juice; 1 cup fresh pineapple; 1 cup frozen mango; ½ cup Bonsoy Organic coconut water; 1 cup ice cubes.
Method: Blend ingredients at high speed in blender. Prepare glass rims by slicing a lime wedge and using its juice to moisten the rim.
Tropical Tango Zest
Ingredients – 1 Lime cut into wedges; ¼ cup mint leaves; 1 Skinny Mocktail Peach-Mango Crush Powder; 300ml sparkling water
Method:
Place lime wedges and fresh mint leaves in glass, crushing the leaves to release the flavours. Add Skinny Mocktail Powder together will sparkling water. Stir well and garnish with mint leaves.
Cherry Mocha Fizz
Ingredients – 1 Skinny Mocktail Choc-Cherry Espresso Powder; 1 cup crushed ice; ½ cup chilled water; ½ cup almond milk; fresh mint leaves for garnish
Method: Add 1 scoop crush ice into glass, then pour in ½ cup Milk Lab Almond Milk. Top with mint leaves.
]]>So, what are mocktails? As the word may indicate, mocktails are cocktails without the alcohol. Mocktails are created to emulate a cocktail, imitating the taste and appearance of a cocktail.
Recently we introduced the Skinny Mocktail range into our store which is a range of exciting and tasty mocktail powders. Skinny Mocktails are obviously beneficial because they are alcohol-free. These powders however are mocktails with an extra twist. Skinny Mocktails contain a range of therapeutic ingredients including herbs and amino acids which are believed to be beneficial for –
Digestive Balance Support
Weight Loss Management Support
Adaptogenic and Focus Support
The range includes several delightful flavours -
Coconut-Pine Swirl
Choc-Berry Espresso
Melon-Berry Bliss
Peach-Mango Crush
Apple-Lychee Cooler
The flavours and powders used to design these Mocktail powders are 100% natural. A lot of thought has gone into creating a delicious experience from the creation of the gorgeous tropical sweetness of mango, pineapple, and coconut to the sharpness of passionfruit and lime and the added sweet flavours of strawberry, watermelon, apple, and lychee.
Non-alcoholic powders are added to the powders to cater to those who would like a non-alcoholic alternative to their favourite cocktail. The non-alcoholic gin powder is created to replicate the taste and aroma of gin using a blend of juniper berries, orange, lemon, aniseed, and coriander. The non-alcoholic rum powder also replicates the taste and aroma of rum using a blend of cassia, nutmeg, and clove.
Skinny Mocktails are a delicious and healthy beverage option with the added benefit of supporting our gut health and weight management. They are economical at $2.60 a sachet. Now that has to be the most economical cocktail, I mean mocktail, you will ever buy, and you have the added therapeutic benefits!
This Super Saturday you can taste test these delicious Skinny Mocktails. Don’t forget to look out for our Mocktail Bar set up in store. In the meantime, below are several Skinny Mocktail recipes to get your mouth watering!
For more information call down to the store to chat with Bev and the girls at our store at 5 North St, Batemans Bay. Don’t forget to tune into Bev on 2EC every Wednesday at 12.45 pm.
]]>The gelatin found in bone broth is also believed to be helpful for our joint health and drinking bone broth regularly may be helpful for treating and preventing arthritis. When it comes to treating arthritis, I’m sure we’ve all heard of glucosamine and chondroitin which are the compounds contained in cartilage. Bone broth contains glucosamine and chondroitin. The amino acids known as proline and glycine are also contained in gelatin. These amino acids are used by our body to form connective tissue including our ligaments and tendons.
]]>Bone broth is a nutrient-dense stock which is created by cooking up animal bones and connective tissue. This broth is generally made from the bones and connective tissue of animals such as chicken, fish or beef.
Making it is pretty easy. Just add 2kg animal bones, 5 litres water, 40ml apple cider vinegar and simmer for 12 hours or longer if you wish. Then after cooling strain, leaving only a clear broth to drink. To add flavour, you can add herbs, spices and vegetables when cooking. Note that apple cider vinegar is helpful in extracting the nutrients out of the bones.
For convenience, bone broth is also available in a powdered form and also a paste which can then be added to soups and other foods or you can simply use it as a nutrition warm drink. We do also sell pure bone broth in a jar.
This highly nutritious broth is rich in minerals and vitamins, plus essential fatty acids and amino acids. If we are using animal bones, we may benefit from the high content of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, and other trace minerals. The benefit of using fish bones means we will also gain the benefit of extra iodine which we know may be helpful for our thyroid health.
The marrow which is used during cooking contains other minerals such as iron, boron, manganese, selenium, and zinc. It also contains omegas 3 and 6 plus vitamins A and K2.
Fortuitously, all these animal parts contain collagen which is extracted when cooking and becomes gelatin. It is now well-known gelatin has many health benefits especially when it comes to gut health. Not only is bone broth easily digested so that we are able to more readily obtain all of these nutrients, but the gelatin contained in bone broth may also help shield and heal our gut lining. The bonus is the amino acid glutamine which is contained in gelatin is also extremely helpful in preserving the function of our intestinal wall thereby assisting in maintaining good gut health. Drinking bone broth regularly may also be helpful for IBS and other inflammatory bowel diseases.
The gelatin found in bone broth is also believed to be helpful for our joint health and drinking bone broth regularly may be helpful for treating and preventing arthritis. When it comes to treating arthritis, I’m sure we’ve all heard of glucosamine and chondroitin which are the compounds contained in cartilage. Bone broth contains glucosamine and chondroitin. The amino acids known as proline and glycine are also contained in gelatin. These amino acids are used by our body to form connective tissue including our ligaments and tendons.
Even if you don’t suffer from gut problems or you have no issues with joint health, it makes sense to regularly drink bone broth because it is so nutritious.
For more information about bone broth, call down to Go Vita Batemans Bay at 5 North St, Batemans Bay or phone the store on 0244729737. Don’t forget to tune into Bev on 2EC every Wednesday at 12.45 pm.
]]>Although fermented foods have been around for a long time, they are very much on the health radar these days, particularly when it comes to gut health and general well-being. So, what exactly are fermented foods you might ask? Fermented foods go through a natural process of lactofermentation in which natural bacteria feed on the sugar and starch in the food which then creates lactic acid. This not only preserves the food but also creates valuable enzymes and various strains of probiotics. Fermenting foods also preserves the nutrients as well as enables the foods to be more easily digested - hence the connection between fermented foods and gut health.
]]>Although fermented foods have been around for a long time, they are very much on the health radar these days, particularly when it comes to gut health and general well-being. So, what exactly are fermented foods you might ask? Fermented foods go through a natural process of lactofermentation in which natural bacteria feed on the sugar and starch in the food which then creates lactic acid. This not only preserves the food but also creates valuable enzymes and various strains of probiotics. Fermenting foods also preserves the nutrients as well as enables the foods to be more easily digested - hence the connection between fermented foods and gut health.
Unfortunately, the number of probiotics and enzymes in the average diet has declined over the years, mainly due to development in technology and food preparation. I use the word ‘development’ not necessarily in a positive way – where once we ate foods rich in enzymes and probiotics, the normal diet now consists largely of processed sugar, salt and saturated fat-based ‘non’ foods.
Fermented foods are in fact highly nutritious and easily digested. The fermentation process actually pre-digests the food which in turn makes the nutrients far more bio-available and quite often produces extra nutrients.
We have known for some time probiotics taken in a capsule or powder are beneficial for increasing the good bacteria in our gut. Many however have not been aware that eating fermented foods and drinking fermented drinks can be helpful in increasing the good bacteria in the digestive system. Fermented foods can also help to address the imbalance of stomach acid in the gut. When the stomach is low in hydrochloric acid, fermented foods can help to increase the acid level and vice versa if it is too high. The digestive enzymes in our gut in fact decrease as we get older and consuming fermented foods is the perfect way to increase those digestive enzymes.
To gain the best results with fermented foods, it is obviously important to eat them regularly. Fermented foods may include –
YOGHURT – I’m sure most have eaten yoghurt at some time, however, to gain the best results it is important the yoghurt be as natural as possible i.e. no added sugar (add your own fresh fruit to give extra flavour).
KEFIR – Kefir is a fermented milk drink made by adding kefir grains to milk. These grains are a combination of lactic acid bacteria and yeast. Any type of milk can be used including cow, goat, soy, rice or coconut. Coconut water or water may also be used. When made with milk, kefir is more like a watery yoghurt. When made with water it’s a much lighter beverage.
One of the benefits of kefir is its very high probiotic content. A 2019 study (1) found kefir can contain more than 50 strains of probiotic bacteria and yeasts. Some kefirs are so potent they can be used as a therapeutic drink, meaning we would generally only take around 10ml a day. If you don’t wish to make your own kefir, you can buy kefir in many different flavours and milks.
KOMBUCHA – This beverage is a raw fermented, probiotic and naturally fermented tea. Once again Kombucha is believed to contain probiotics to provide our gut with healthy bacteria.
Making Kombucha can be fun or alternatively, you can purchase kombucha which has already been made for you, once again in various flavours.
FERMENTED VEGETABLES – I’m sure we have all tasted or at least heard of Sauerkraut which has been part of the European diet for centuries. Some may also know of Kimchi which is another fermented vegetable eaten for centuries in Korea.
These fermented vegetables are raw, unpasteurised, rich in good lactic acid bacteria, free from vinegar or flavour enhancers. They are a great addition to your meal – used as a delicious condiment with savoury dishes or as an addition to salads.
CASHEW CHEESE – These cheeses are a great alternative to dairy and even better the fermentation process means they once again contain probiotics.
There is no doubt, that gut health is imperative to our overall well-being. Now with all these options, there really is no excuse to not address our gut health.
For more information, call down to Go Vita Batemans Bay at 5 North St, Batemans Bay or phone the store on 0244729737. Don’t forget to tune into Bev on 2EC every Wednesday at 12.45 pm.
For some, this only happens after such indulgences however, in general, a huge percentage of people suffer from irritable bowel syndrome, flatulence, bloating, reflux and indigestion. Many believe there’s nothing they can do to relieve this problem and just in silence. Generally, this is not the case and as you read further you will realize how important it is to address poor digestion and gut health. As I have often written, there are supplements that can help heal the gut and bowel thereby relieving these terrible symptoms.
One very popular gut formula contains some of the well-known gut healing products such as slippery elm. Slippery elm is a healer and anti-inflammatory to the gut and bowel, as is another ingredient, aloe vera leaf. These two ingredients are traditionally used to help promote healthy intestinal function and digestion. Globe artichoke is also included. Globe artichoke assists with liver support which also assists with good digestion.
One of the key and most important ingredients, however, is the amino acid, glutamine. Once again, I often write about glutamine when writing about gut health. This amino acid has been shown to assist in the production and repair of intestinal cells. Therefore, it is extremely important for maintaining a healthy intestinal lining and preventing Leaky Gut Syndrome. Leaky Gut Syndrome occurs when partially digested food, toxins and bacteria pass through the small intestine and enter the bloodstream. Putting it simply, large spaces occur in between the cells that make up the wall of the gut, allowing the bacteria, toxins and food to enter into the bloodstream.
Digestion is therefore impaired because the damaged gut wall is unable to manufacture the enzymes that are vital to digestion. Unfortunately, when these toxins enter the bloodstream, our body reacts with such unpleasant symptoms including allergies and inflammatory bowel conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Crohn’s disease. Arthritis, chronic fatigue, lupus, fibromyalgia, and diabetes have also sometimes been linked to Leaky Gut Syndrome. It is logical that many suffering from poor digestion also suffer from Leaky Gut Syndrome – hence the need to address this problem.
This gut healing product also contains Chamomile which is traditionally used in herbal medicine to improve digestive weakness. We know turmeric can be helpful for treating inflammation which is why it may help treat inflamed tissues in the gut. Marshmallow root which is also included in this formula similarly has anti-inflammatory qualities.
Zinc has been found to be an important mineral for maintaining healthy gut bacteria which is why it is included in this formula. I’m pleased to see Inulin has been included. I have written previously about the prebiotic Inulin being helpful in feeding our gut flora and therefore being extremely beneficial in gut health.
So don’t suffer in silence – your gut health is so important and there are many steps you can take to restore good health and wellbeing.
If you would like more information on this problem call to see Bev and the team at Go Vita, Your Health Shop at 5 North St, Batemans Bay or phone on 44729737. Don’t forget to tune into Bev on 2EC every Wednesday at 12.45pm.
]]>If you’re a beer drinker, consuming just 350ml of beer when you’re enjoying the lovely summer outdoors is likely to make you more attractive to mozzies. The jury is out on why this is the case, however, there’s some belief this may be because of the increase in body temperature and the increase in ethanol emitted in our sweat. So, if you like a beer out on the back deck in mozzie season, you could be in trouble.
Mosquitoes it seems are more likely to target their prey by smelling the carbon dioxide discharged from our breath. It seems the larger we are, the more carbon dioxide we exhale, and the more likely mosquitoes are going to be attracted to us. Interestingly, it’s believed mosquitoes can sense carbon dioxide from up to 50 metres away and to detect this carbon dioxide, mosquitoes apparently use an organ known as a maxillary palp. There has been some research (1) that has shown mosquitoes prefer certain blood types. It’s known mosquitoes will bite us to collect the proteins from our blood and one particular study conducted in a controlled setting reported those with Type O blood have hit the jackpot. If you’re a Type O blood type, according to this study you’re twice as likely to be targeted by mosquitoes than a Type A blood type. If you’re a Type B blood type your attractiveness to the mosquitoes falls in between Type O and Type A. Another fascinating piece of information is around 85% of us secrete through our skin, a chemical signal which will indicate to the mosquito what particular blood type we may be. However, 15% of us won’t secrete this chemical through our skin and are therefore the lucky ones who are less likely to attract the mosquitoes.
If you’re outside undertaking vigorous exercise, you’re also more likely to attract mosquitoes. Obviously, our body temperature is going to rise which mozzies love however it’s also because mosquitoes are more attracted to ammonia, lactic acid, uric acid, and other substances which are sweated out when we exercise.
In 2011 there was a study (2) that indicated that when we have substantial amounts of bacteria of a limited type of bacteria on our skin, this makes our skin more tempting to mosquitoes. We all have bacteria on our skin however it was interesting to note having masses of bacteria that covered a greater area of our skin made our skin less appealing. There is a thought that because our feet and ankles naturally have more vigorous bacteria colonies, we are more likely to find mozzies attacking those areas.
Natural Insect Repellent
When it comes to insect repellent, I’m sure we would all prefer to use something natural. My preference is a spray containing Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus which is the only natural ingredient recommended by the Centre for Disease Control and the World Health Organisation as a natural insect repellent. A study (3) published in the Journal of Insect Science in 2015 found plant-based sprays containing oil of lemon eucalyptus were the only DEET-free formulas to deliver strong and long-lasting results. It is important to note there is a difference between the oil of lemon eucalyptus and lemon eucalyptus essential oil. Due to the difference in processing, they have quite different chemical compositions and efficacy. The essential oil does not have the effectiveness of the oil of lemon eucalyptus.
For more information, call down to Go Vita Batemans Bay at 5 North St, Batemans Bay or phone the store on 0244729737. Don’t forget to tune into Bev on 2EC every Wednesday at 12.45 pm.
(1) ncbi.nim.nih.gov JMed Entomol 2004 Jul;4(4):796-9
(3) Journal of Insect Science 2015:15(1):140 DOI:10.1093/jisesa/lev125]]>Prevention and Treatment of Gout – only a gout sufferer could know the extreme pain of a gout attack. Gout sufferers will be pleased to know studies have shown drinking sour cherry juice can lower the risk of a gout flare-up. Gout occurs when our body is unable to effectively control the amount of uric acid in the blood. The stiffness and swelling occur when excess uric acid forms crystals in our joints. Cherries contain powerful compounds called anthocyanins which fight inflammation and lower uric acid levels. Cherry juice has been shown to protect from recurrent attacks as well as being helpful whilst in the midst of a gout attack.
Natural Arthritis Pain Relief - as with gout, cherry juice is helpful because of the anthocyanins that fight inflammation. Studies have shown a significant reduction in symptoms such as stiffness, pain, and physical function. The anthocyanins found in cherry juice assist in relieving pain by impeding the enzymes connected with pain. By preventing these pain signals from reaching the brain, any feeling of pain is negated.
Prevention of Post Workout Soreness – drinking cherry juice has been found to help lessen muscle soreness and inflammation after a workout. Working out causes breakdown and inflammation of our muscles which is why it is important to drink a protein shake after exercise. Now just add a little cherry juice to your shake to avoid muscle soreness. What a simple solution to avoid those dreaded sore muscles.
Regulates and Improves Sleep Patterns – now here’s one of the least-known benefits of cherry juice. Cherries are a natural source of the brain hormone known as melatonin which regulates our body’s internal clock. Melatonin has been used effectively to help with the treatment of insomnia or other sleep disruptions such as recovering from or avoiding jet lag. Drinking 30ml of cherry juice 30 minutes after waking in the morning and then 30 minutes before the evening meal has been shown to increase the body’s melatonin level. Some customers have reported drinking 100ml of cherry juice an hour before bed significantly helped with the quality of their sleep and the length of time they slept.
If you are a parent who is struggling to get a good night’s sleep with a wakeful child, you will be interested to know cherry juice has been successfully used to help young children create a good sleep pattern. What a simple solution for what often seems such an insurmountable problem.
There are two different types of cherries – tart cherries and sweet cherries. The tart cherries have a higher concentration of anthocyanins which of course contains anti-inflammatory benefits. Tart cherries however are quite sour to taste. Quite often cherry juice will be a combination of tart and sweet cherries to help make the juice more palatable. The cherry juice I prefer contains equal parts tart cherry and sweet cherry together with other native fruits high in anthocyanins such as Wild Rosella, Davidson Plum, Rainforest Lime, Illawarra Plum, Kakadu Plum and Native Pepperberry. There is no added sugar.
For more information on cherry juice call to see Bev and the team at Go Vita, Your Health Shop at 5 North St, Batemans Bay, or phone at 44729737. Don’t forget to tune into Bev on 2EC every Wednesday at 12.45 pm on Go Get Healthy.
]]>Taking a liver tonic not only supports the liver by enhancing and scavenging free radicals, but it also inhibits inflammation and improves immune defence. A liver tonic may not only improve the liver’s function but help to promote a healthy gall bladder system as well. A healthy liver also means our body will metabolise dietary fats which can of course be a good adjunct to weight loss.
]]>To be fair, I really believe we should be giving this unfortunate organ as much help as we can. It is one of the most important organs in our body – in fact the liver is a multifunctional organ. It not only detoxifies our body but also plays a part in our digestive function – also very important when we’re eating all those rich and often fatty foods during the festive season. The detoxification role of our liver is in fact so essential, if it is not functioning well, our entire body can suffer making us feel unwell, run down and susceptible to infections. Now nobody wants to feel unwell and tired during their summer break.
Our liver is also responsible for metabolising our fats, by producing bile, which then breaks down fats. By overburdening our liver, it’s obvious we are more prone to weight gain which is why we often suggest a liver tonic for those wishing to lose weight. An overburdened liver can also make us feel bloated and very sluggish.
It is therefore understandable that taking a liver tonic at this time of the year is so important. A good liver tonic may improve our liver function and promote detoxification. One of my favourite liver tonics contains several herbs which have traditionally been used to promote healthy liver detoxification plus elimination of waste.
Many would know of one of the most common and important herbs used in liver tonics - St Mary’s Thistle (Milk Thistle) which supports the health and function of the liver cells. The use of St Mary’s Thistle as a liver tonic has been demonstrated to have a positive effect in protecting, supporting, and improving liver function. It may be especially helpful in assisting to relieve digestive problems such as indigestion and bloating. I like this liver tonic because it contains a very high dosage of St Mary’s Thistle.
It also contains a high dosage of Globe Artichoke. This herb may not only protect the liver but also have a protective and restorative effect on the gallbladder. Our gallbladder and liver work together and the globe artichoke is especially helpful to aid sluggish digestion which is often a problem at this time of the year, especially when we’re consuming rich foods and maybe a little too much alcohol.
Taurine is also a part of this liver formula. Taurine may help protect the liver from oxidative damage thereby ensuring the the liver cells efficiently remove damaging compounds.
Taking a liver tonic not only supports the liver by enhancing and scavenging free radicals, but it also inhibits inflammation and improves immune defence. A liver tonic may not only improve the liver’s function but help to promote a healthy gall bladder system as well. A healthy liver also means our body will metabolise dietary fats which can of course be a good adjunct to weight loss.
So be kind to your liver. Just one tablet a day may help your liver recover from the overindulgences of the Christmas and New Year celebrations. If you’re anticipating a big night out, my tip is to take a liver supplement before going out and then before you go to bed. This may well help reduce any damage to the liver, reduce your chance of a hangover and improve clearance of alcohol from your body.
For more information call down to the store to chat to Bev and the girls. Don’t forget to listen to Bev on 2EC every Wednesday at 12.45 pm.
]]>I often reflect on how far our store has come over the past 26 years and the different transformations we have made, evolving, and changing as the health food industry has changed and the needs of our customers have changed. However, something I would like to believe hasn’t changed is the ongoing connection we have made with our many customers over the years.
I’d also like to think our customers feel that coming into Go Vita isn’t just about buying their health foods. I would like to believe we have created a wonderful community within our store, a place where our customers truly feel like they belong. A place where they feel welcome and comfortable and enjoy the friendliness of our staff and other customers.
So, what better way to celebrate another great year and that sense of community at Go Vita, than with lots of fun and frivolity at our Thank Gala Day Sale! I’m sure you all know by now we love our gala days. It’s a great excuse for the girls to get dressed up in crazy outfits and for our customers to get into the fun of it all. I often describe our Gala Days, as Super Days on steroids!!
Next Monday we will be offering our usual Super Day discounts which means you can buy up big before Christmas. It’s an opportunity to purchase those last-minute Christmas gifts and of course your Christmas and pudding mixes. Many find it gives them the opportunity to stock up to avoid coming into town during the silly season.
As usual, I’ll be baking plenty of Christmas cakes and treats to hand out to customers on the day.
Instead of our trusty chocolate wheel, this Gala Day, we’re changing it up a little and every customer gets to roll our colourful dice, to claim their special ‘thank you’ gift.
And once again there will be a health hamper to be won on the day, to the value of $400.
I’m sure all our customers would agree, there is no doubt our business would not have been as successful as it is today without our amazing, loyal, dedicated staff. This is my opportunity to also thank my team Marianne, Donna, Sofia, Katie, Rosie, Sue and Adrianna for their ongoing loyalty and support throughout not just this year, but for the many years they have worked for me. Thank you, girls!!
As with all our Super Days, if you can’t get into our store, you can place your orders over the phone or on our online store.
]]>I’m sure most of us, in our busy lives, would love to find a supplement which may naturally boost our energy levels. It’s pretty obvious because this nutrient-dense superfood comprises of such an incredible range of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. It is in the box seat to help us sustain our bodies and nurture our well-being. Chlorella is comprised of many energy-enhancing nutrients which may work together to invigorate and rejuvenate our bodies. Importantly, chlorella contains an impressive source of bioavailable Vitamin B12 which we know is important for our energy production as well as to help support our nervous system.
As I have written previously, chlorella is a great detoxifier. By eliminating toxins from our body, it may assist our body to perform more effectively, thereby increasing our energy levels. Chlorophyll contained in chlorella is also believed to have revitalising effects on our bodies.
Chlorella also contains more iron and folate than any other plant-based foods. Obtaining iron from a plant-based source means it is less difficult to absorb and of course, because chlorella contains vitamin C it is even more absorbable.
Interestingly it’s also believed chlorella may be beneficial for athletes participating in exercise which requires significant aerobic endurance. A study of both men and women found taking chlorella increased oxygen uptake capacity when undertaking aerobic sports (1).
When I started researching chlorella, weight loss certainly wasn’t a benefit I imagined would come up in my research. However, a Japanese study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food declared that “chlorella intake resulted in a noticeable reduction in body fat percentage, serum total cholesterol and fasting blood glucose”(2) It’s also believed supplementing with chlorella may be effective in impeding the production of fat cells and shrinking existing fat cells. It’s been found chlorella may shrink fat cells by reducing the amount of fat held within these cells.
We know chlorella supports good gut flora which is beneficial for our digestive system. It is now thought there is a link between good gut health and obesity. Promoting good gut flora helps increase our feeling of fullness, increases absorption of nutrients, assists in balancing hormones, and creates more feel-good neurotransmitter which all helps in weight loss.
Because chlorella is so high in nutrients, we aren’t eating food depleted of good nutrients and are more likely to feel fuller for longer. Chlorella’s ability to balance blood sugars means it can be also helpful in reducing cravings.
I wrote recently about chlorella helping with fatty liver. Losing weight can be more difficult when suffering from fatty liver. This is another area where chlorella may be helpful with weight loss by improving our liver health.
So as a wrap-up, I can’t help but be impressed with this pretty incredible freshwater algae which I reiterate is nature’s gift to our good health and wellbeing. As I’ve previously written it just has so many health benefits, by being so nutrient-dense which almost creates a one stop health supplement.
For more information call down to the store to chat to Bev and the girls. Don’t forget to listen to Bev on 2EC every Wednesday at 12.45 pm.
One of the positive benefits of chlorella is its ability to assist in good cardiovascular health. We now know chlorella is abundant in nutrients which may be beneficial to our cardiovascular health. It’s thought the nutrients in chlorella may help lower bad (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides. Chlorella’s minerals and fatty acids also may help lessen the stiffness of blood vessels, improving blood vessel function and blood pressure.
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease. There have been positive studies relating to chlorella in relation to cardiovascular health. One study undertaken on participants with mildly high blood pressure, taking 4000mg chlorella daily over 12 weeks, found participants experienced lower blood pressure readings compared to those participants taking the placebo (1). Another smaller study of men taking chlorella found these men experienced less stiffness of their arteries (2).
High cholesterol can also contribute to heart disease. Researchers found 63 participants experiencing mild to high cholesterol levels, after taking 5000mg of chlorella over 4 weeks, experienced remarkable changes in total cholesterol, significantly reducing total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides (3). A further study found chlorella had reduced cholesterol together with body fat percentage, with the suggestion chlorella may in fact improve fat metabolism. (4) It is believed chlorella may be effective in lowering cholesterol because of the bioactive compounds in the single-celled microalgae which can optimise the metabolism of lipids. The water-soluble fibres which are high in chlorella bind to the digested fat and reduce the absorption of sterols such as cholesterol from the intestine, thereby passing through the body and being eliminated.
Another of the many positive benefits of chlorella is its ability to assist with blood sugar levels. Generally, we relate blood sugar levels to diabetes and pre-diabetes which of course can become a major health issue. High blood sugar however also causes inflammation and damages blood vessels which can cause vision and nerve problems plus increase our risk of heart disease and stroke. Chlorella is thought to improve insulin sensitivity which in turn enables the cells to effectively utilize glucose in the blood for energy and to inhibit it from building up to dangerous levels. Chlorella boosts glucose reuptake in both our liver and muscle cells. If we consume chlorella at the same time, as we are eating carbohydrates, it’s believed the dietary fibre in chlorella can assist in the lessening of a blood glucose spike.
A study in the Journal of Medicinal Food found taking chlorella resulted in reduced fasting blood glucose levels. The studies also indicated that the genes engaged in the insulin pathway were impacted when taking chlorella, enabling glucose to be dispersed from the blood more effectively. (4)
So, when we add these health benefits to all the other health benefits I have previously written about, chlorella really is quite amazing. The detoxification benefits, the treatment of fatty liver, the enhancement of healthy aging and cellular regeneration, the protection of the health of our brain, plus the repairing and restoration of our aging and sun-damaged skin. As I said last week chlorella really is nature’s gift to healthy anti-ageing and is a great one-stop health supplement.
(1) Morio Shimada, Takashi Hasegawa, Chiaki Nishimura, Hiroko Kan, Toshihiro Kanno, Toshio Nakamura, Tsuneo Matsubayashi Anti-hypertensive effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-rich Chlorella on high-normal blood pressure and borderline hypertension in placebo-controlled double-blind study. Clin Exp Hypertens.2009 Jun:31(4):342-54 doi: 10.1090/10641960902977908
(2) Takeshi Otsuki, Kazuhiro Shimizu, Motoyuki Iemitsu, Ichiro Kono. Multicomponent supplement containing Chlorella decreases arterial stiffness in healthy young men. Clin Biochem Nutr 2013 Nov;53(3):166-9. Doi:10.3164/jcbn.13-51. Epub 2013 Oct 3
(3) Na Hee Ryu, Yeni Lim, Ji Eeun Park, Joohee Kim, Sung Won Kwon, Oran Kwon. Impact of daily Chlorella consumption on serum lipid and carotenoid profiles in mildly hypercholesterolemic adults: a double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled study. Nutr J 2014 Jun 11:13:57.doi:10.1186/1475-2891-13-57
(4) Toru Mizoguchi, Isao Takehara, Tohru Masuzawa, Toshiro Saito, Yo Naoki. Nutrigenomic studies of effects of Chlorella on subjects with high-risk factors for lifestyle-related disease J Med Food. 2008 Sep;11(3):395-404 doi:10.1089/jmf.2006.0180
]]>Another factor, that makes this such an incredible health supplement, is a unique complex contained in the nucleus of every chlorella cell, known as Chlorella Growth Factor (CGF). This unique complex is only found in chlorella. Because of this Chlorella Growth Factor, chlorella doubles in growth every 20 hours.
So how does this help us? The Chlorella Growth Factor contained inside the nucleus of every chlorella cell is composed of nucleic acids known as RNA and DNA. This RNA and DNA help sustain cellular health and regeneration. It’s believed consuming foods high in RNA and DNA may in fact help protect our own nucleic acids. When our RNA and DNA are in good health, our body can use nutrients more readily thereby preventing disease.
It's thought one of the main causes of accelerated aging is our inability as we age, to produce sufficient RNA and DNA, making us more at risk of illness and disease. This is where the Chlorella Growth Factor may be helpful. Because it’s high in nucleic acids, our bodies can continue to take up RNA and DNA despite the fact our body’s production of these molecules has reduced. It’s believed by eating foods containing the Chlorella Growth Factor, we can enhance healthy aging and cellular regeneration.
Chlorella Growth Factor enhances the RNA and DNA processes which are needed for the creation of enzymes, proteins and energy at a cellular level which can assist in rapid tissue healing and protect our cells from toxins. It also strengthens our immune system. Chlorella Growth Factor is thought to stimulate the production of interferon, protecting T and B lymphocytes thereby increasing our ability to fight disease.
The antioxidants contained in the Chlorella Growth Factor may also lessen free radical damage and promote anti-aging effects. One of our brain’s biggest enemies is oxidative stress from free radicals. There is a belief, that certain toxins such as heavy metals, moulds, mycotoxins, environmental pollutants, and pesticides may increase our risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Chlorella Growth Factor contains glutathione which binds to heavy metals, solvents, mycotoxins, and pesticides and converts them into a form which can be excreted in urine or bile. Because Chlorella Growth Factor is rich in nucleic acids (RNA and DNA) it also helps protect our brain.
Our brain also requires good nutrition and Chlorella is an amazing natural food source of rich nutrients. B vitamins are imperative for brain function. Chlorella contains one of the more absorbable forms of B12. It contains Omega 3, a vital brain nutrient as well as other important vitamins and minerals. Protein is essential in enabling nutrients to be transported into our brain cells and importantly, chlorella contains more than 50% of bio-available protein and all the essential amino acids.
When it comes to anti-aging our thoughts often go to our skin. Because Chlorella is packed with nutrients, it can be helpful in repairing and restoring sun-damaged skin. It’s believed to improve our skin’s ability to renew and heal. It’s also thought to provide the building blocks for keratin, collagen and healthy skin as well as protect collagen and elastin in our skin, improving skin tone. Toxins such as environmental pollution and smoking can accelerate the ageing of our skin. Chlorella’s ability to detoxify our body helps to prevent these aging effects.
The more I research Chlorella, the more I realise this incredible freshwater algae is really one of nature’s gifts! And even better, we can now access Australian-grown Chlorella which is available in powder or tablet.
For more information call down to the store to chat to Bev and the girls at 5 North Street, Batemans Bay or phone on 0244729737. Don’t forget to tune into Bev on 2EC every Wednesday at 12.45pm.
]]>Ingredients:
4 tbsp Go Vita Organic Black Chia Seeds; 2 tsp Biogenesis Chlorella Powder; 1 cup Milk Lab Almond Milk; 1 cup Natural Road Almond Butter; 1 tbsp Organic Road Maple Syrup; ¼ tsp Vanilla. Topping of berries and sliced banana.
Mix all ingredients together and let set in the fridge for at least 2 hours.
VEGAN GREEN ENERGY BALLS
Ingredients:
1 cup Go Vita Medjool Dates; 2 tbsp Biogenesis Chlorella (Mixed Berries Flavour); 3 tbsp Natural Road Almond Butter; 1 tbsp Go Vita Organic Black Chia Seeds; ¼ cup finely chopped Loving Earth Dark Chocolate; 2/3 cup Gloriously Free Uncontaminated Oats.
Blend dates then other ingredients. Roll into small balls and place in the fridge for an hour.
]]>We come into contact with toxins every day whether it be in the foods we eat, the air we breathe, the personal care/cosmetics we use, the cleaning products we use – the list goes on. Unfortunately, we are constantly overloading our bodies with more and more synthetics and toxins. As we continue to live in this ‘modern’ world, it is harder and harder to avoid many of these toxins.
It has been believed for some time that Chlorella may be effective in detoxifying our bodies of heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, mercury and aluminium, pesticide residues and other damaging chemicals. This amazing nutrient-dense green algae has been found to bind itself to these heavy metals, pesticides etc in our body, allowing these toxins to pass through our body, thereby preventing the toxins from accumulating in our soft tissue and organs. Chlorella does not however bind to beneficial minerals such as calcium, magnesium and zinc.
We can be exposed to heavy metals in various ways. I guess most of us, when we think of heavy metals, conjures up images of big industrial factories, mining operations and even chemical laboratories. Harmful chemicals however can be found in the foods we eat, air we breathe, water we drink, cosmetics we use and even the amalgam in our dental fillings.
As well as assisting in the detoxification of heavy metals, Chlorella has also been found to be beneficial for liver health especially non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. 1 in 3 Australian adults suffer from fatty liver disease. Fatty liver disease has become more prevalent as our population has become more overweight. Fatty liver occurs when there is too much fat in our liver and is more common in people who are overweight or suffer from diabetes. If this condition isn’t addressed, it can unfortunately lead to other more serious health problems.
The good news is a randomised clinical trial discovered Chlorella had incredible detoxifying benefits for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Participants taking 1200mg a day of Chlorella for 3 months experienced substantial drops in liver inflammation (1) As well, participants in the study also experienced improvements in their diabetes and pre-diabetes plus triglycerides and abnormal liver enzymes improved.
Maintaining a healthy liver is extremely important as our liver performs so many important functions. Chlorella may well be a one-stop shop for our liver nutrition. Not only does it contain the detoxifying properties mentioned above, but Chlorella is also high in B group vitamins, Vitamin C, D, E and beta carotene, Omega 3, selenium, zinc, magnesium, manganese, and iron. It is beneficial for liver health and liver enzyme production. In fact, this nutrient-dense algae is beneficial as an all-round health supplement.
Chlorella can be taken in a tablet or powder. Both tablets and powder are available in a natural, tropical, or mixed berry flavour.
For more information, call the store to chat with Bev and the girls at 5 North St, Batemans Bay. Don’t forget to tune into Bev every Wednesday at 12.45 pm on 2EC.
Earlier this year we were approached by an Australian company, Biogenesis who were launching a new range of Chlorella onto the market. When we’re looking at new ranges, we do our best to ensure the products are of the highest quality and with ethical business practices.
What stands out with Biogenesis is they are the only Australian-made and Australian-grown licenced producer of Chlorella on the market. The company is also 100% Australian-owned and operated, with their farm being located in the pristine Barrier Reef region of north Queensland. Bathed in ample sunshine the Chlorella thrives in fresh spring water ponds. Importantly, Biogenesis is dedicated to only undertaking sustainable farming practices and never testing on animals. They also ensure all their products are pesticide and herbicide-free and free of environmental contaminants.
One of the interesting facts about Biogenesis is they have taken their Chlorella to the next level by creating a ground-breaking cell cracking technology. Chlorella grows with a hard cell wall, protecting the nutrients found within the Chlorella molecule. This hard cell wall makes digestion of Chlorella difficult which is why many companies grind the Chlorella into a powder. It is thought this grinding process may cause oxidation of the Chlorella as well as deplete the nutrients.
To avoid the possibility of losing nutrients plus oxidation, Biogenesis has created a system combining vacuum and ultrasonic technology. It’s thought this technology helps to provide all Chlorella’s super nutrients more effectively to every cell of our body.
Biogenesis have also been innovative in developing and unique system for growing their algae. When marine algae grow in its natural environment such as oceans and rivers, it’s the actual movement of the water which is imperative for the growth of the algae. This water movement enables the algae to be exposed to enough air, nutrients and sunlight to flourish. By utilising water pressure to move the water, Biogenesis has been able to replicate the normal water flow of a river, unlike the traditional systems which use large paddlewheel systems. Biogenesis believes their innovative hydrodynamic growth system ensures the algae can grow to a more superior standard which of course is more beneficial for all of us.
So now I’ve explained how Chlorella is grown it’s even more important to understand just how beneficial Chlorella is for our health. Because Chlorella is so nutrient-dense, there are many, many health benefits. It is now believed to be the richest bioavailable plant source of iron; it is beneficial for our gut health because it helps maintain a healthy biome. It supports our liver and helps with detoxification, especially of heavy metals and pesticides. It contributes to a well-functioning immune system, boosts energy levels, and helps with cardiovascular health. The list goes on and on and over the next few weeks I will elaborate on just how beneficial Chlorella may be for our general wellbeing.
To learn more about Chlorella’s benefits, call Go Vita in North St, Batemans Bay. Don’t forget to tune into Bev on 2EC every Wednesday at 12.45 p.m.
]]>Sinusitis affects up to 1.9 million Australians each year and can be extremely debilitating. The usual symptoms of sinusitis can be pain, swelling and tenderness around our forehead, eyes, cheeks, and nose. Our noses can become blocked and congested. Sometimes we can lose our sense of smell and we can also suffer from a runny nose and postnasal drip which occurs when mucous runs down the back of our throat.
I guess most of us are aware of our sinuses but often don’t exactly know the role of our sinuses. Sinuses are pockets of empty spaces that lie behind our noses and our eyes. They are coated with a thin layer of mucous to assist in humidifying the air we breathe. Their role is to also filter any foreign particles such as pollen, dust, perfumes, household chemicals etc. Mucous and fluid are meant to drain from our sinuses, however unfortunately when we suffer from poor sinus drainage, this can lead to congestion and other sinusitis symptoms as mentioned below.
A common cold can affect our sinuses or quite often those suffering from hay fever or another allergy can suffer from sinusitis. Hay fever usually results from an allergic reaction to foreign particles such as pollen, dust etc which then causes nasal congestion, thereby affecting the sinuses and causing sinusitis. This is why it is common for hay fever sufferers to suffer from sinusitis.
For more than 1000 years, traditional Chinese medicine has used a combination of herbs, especially Siberian Cocklebur, Dahurian Angelica and Lily Magnolia to relieve the symptoms of sinusitis and hay fever.
Siberian Cocklebur, Dahurian Angelica and Lily Magnolia have traditionally been used as a decongestant to relieve nasal congestion and unblock and clear nasal passages. They can help relieve a runny, dripping nose as well as relieve post-nasal drip. Just as importantly, these herbs also act as an analgesic to relieve pain and headache symptoms.
These three herbs are also traditionally prescribed to decrease the symptoms of allergic rhinitis or hay fever by relieving sneezing and nasal itching. They can be effective as a nasal decongestant, reducing facial tenderness, and relieving an itchy throat and itchy eyes.
Dahurian Angelica and Siberian Cocklebur are also traditionally used to improve nose breathing associated with sinusitis.
Another herb known as Sneezewood is added to this formula to reinforce the decongestant effects of the other Chinese herbs plus to relieve nasal congestion and unblock and clear nasal passages.
Previously I have written about Paul’s allergy formula which we have been receiving great feedback on. Paul suggests if you’re only suffering from hay fever without experiencing sinusitis, taking the allergy formula would provide better relief. However, if you are suffering from both hay fever and sinusitis, this new sinus formula would be the better option.
For more information on this new formula, call down to chat with Bev and the girls at the Go Vita in North St, Batemans Bay. Don’t forget to tune into Bev on 2EC every Wednesday at 12.45 pm.
]]>Sugar cravings are more than a lack of willpower. There is in fact a physiological reason why we crave sugar. It is surprising just how many people have this compelling desire for high carbohydrate and high sugar foods. These desires involve similar mechanisms engaged by opiates and the pain/pleasure centre of the brain.
Many would not realise, that when we frequently eat sugary foods, we can often be setting up a cycle that leads to sugar cravings which we then struggle to resist and then become an addiction. The answer to overcoming this sugar addiction is to break this sugar cycle and quell these sugar cravings. Easier said than done I can hear you say, however, once we have overcome these sugar cravings for a reasonable period of time, our body will revert back to what is normal.
The good news is there is a range of therapeutic herbs and minerals that may help us overcome these sugar cravings. One of the most interesting is Gymnema. The leaf of this plant contains gymnemic acids which believe it or not when placed on the tongue impedes our ability to taste the sweetness of the sugars. It is believed to be helpful in avoiding sugar cravings and depleting the desire for high-sugar foods. In fact, it is also thought, that this herb when ingested, blocks intestinal absorption of sugar which then prevents blood sugar from increasing after eating sugar.
Who would have thought Cinnamon the spice we all know so well, could help with sugar cravings. Cinnamon effectively stabilizes blood glucose levels, reducing insulin spikes particularly after meals. Insulin spikes often lead to consuming more sugar which is what we don’t want.
Then we have the herb Fenugreek which has also been found to regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin levels. Fenugreek appears to slow down sugar absorption whilst stimulating insulin production. Because Fenugreek improves glucose control there is also a noticeable decrease in sugar cravings.
Chromium is the other supplement that works well when it comes to sugar cravings. I witnessed the effectiveness of Chromium first-hand many years ago when I gave it to my 8-year-old son. For years despite being fed a healthy diet like the rest of the family, he was obsessed with sugar. If there was sugar in the house, he would pull the pantry apart to find it!! I began to realise this was more than just a young boy’s need for a few sweet treats. Within a few days of supplementing with Chromium, these sugar cravings completely disappeared and never returned.
For some, to gain the best results it is often better to include all of the above ingredients in one supplement. For others, just taking Chromium is enough to overcome their sugar cravings. Over the years I have often suggested using these supplements to overcome sugar cravings with fantastic results. I remember one customer could not believe after taking such a supplement, her need to consume a packet of lollies after every evening meal had completely gone. This is one of many similar stories. Most customers are amazed at how effectively these supplements work. For many it has meant they can now lose weight as their sugar cravings will no longer sabotage their weight loss program.
To avoid these cravings it is also important to begin your day with some protein - maybe a protein shake or eggs. It is best to avoid high-carb foods such as cereals (especially sugary cereals) and toast. Remember the more carbs/sugar you eat the more you will want. Eating grains for breakfast and lunch, particularly without protein, is setting you up for a mid-afternoon crash where you start to feel really fatigued and are compelled to eat a high-carb/high-sugar snack. It is always important to include some protein in each meal or snack. Make sure you eat every 3 hours to avoid blood sugar drops.
If you want to know more about addressing sugar cravings including changing your diet, call to see Bev and the team at Go Vita, Your Health Shop at 5 North St, Batemans Bay or phone 0244729737. Don’t forget to tune in to hear Bev on 2EC every Wednesday at 12.45 pm.
]]>Activated charcoal is a real saviour for many who suffer from flatulence. It works by drawing excess gas in the stomach and bowel which in turn binds to the surface of the charcoal powder and is excreted with the charcoal in the stools. It also alleviates any problems caused by indigestion, heartburn, flatulence and wind.
As well as binding excess gas to the surface of the charcoal powder, it also actively binds poisons and chemicals which may also be in the stomach and bowel. Activated charcoal is therefore also a great way to help detoxify the gut and bowel. Interestingly this process entails adsorbing not absorbing the toxins. By adsorbing it means the toxins are attracted to the surface of the fine charcoal particles, and not absorbed into the charcoal or the body, however are excreted through the bowel. Don’t be alarmed, this then means you may have black stools.
As the charcoal travels through the intestinal tract it will be collecting toxins along the way. These toxins will not only be those ingested but also toxins accumulated from skin contact or breathing. Obviously it is important to eliminate these toxins from the bowel and to assist this elimination it is important to drink plenty of water and consume soluble fibre to help it along its merry way!
Because activated charcoal is known as a remedy to absorb toxins, it also is effective for treatment of chemicals or poisons ingested into the gut. Some Emergency Rooms use large doses of activated charcoal for certain types of poisoning.
A charcoal which I particularly like, not only contains charcoal but also ginger and peppermint. Ginger has been found to be helpful in helping to reduce flatulence, bloating, IBS, colic, and poor digestion. It is believed to assist in digesting our food and absorption of nutrients by stimulating our digestive acids.
Peppermint has also been found to alleviate digestive problems such as bloating, indigestion and flatulence. It is thought peppermint may relax our digestive system thereby easing gut pain and spasms. You can see now why I think this is a great formula. By added ginger and peppermint it has taken charcoal to the next level in alleviating these gut problems.
Charcoal powder has also become very popular of late as an ingredient in smoothies.
It is necessary to be aware if you are taking prescription medications the activated charcoal may reduce its effectiveness. Make sure you take your activated charcoal at least 2 - 3 hours away from your medications.
For more information on activated charcoal or any other health issue call to see Bev and the team at Go Vita Your Health Shop at 5 North St Batemans Bay or phone on 44729737. Don’t forget to tune in to Bev on 2EC every Wednesday at 12.45pm.
]]>I think it’s therefore this week appropriate to write about herbs that may help us to cope with stress and anxiety, as well as homeopathic and Bach Flowers which may also not only help adults but also our children and animals. We’re preparing our properties for what seems to be the inevitable terrible bushfire season, it’s also important to prepare our minds and bodies.
There are several herbs which I’ve found may work well in preventing and assisting with the treatment of stress and anxiety.
I love the herbs Withania and Rhodiola. Withania sometimes known as Indian Ginseng has been used for around 4000 years in traditional Indian medicine. As with other well-known Chinese Ginsengs, it is wonderful for not only relieving stress but also increasing energy and endurance whilst under stress which I’m sure many of us are needing at the moment. It is important to also note Withania is an adaptogen herb which means it can adjust to psychological as well as physiological stress which is far more beneficial when preventing or treating stress. Withania is also fantastic for calming the nervous system, treating anxiety and as well helping to lessen nervous exhaustion. Rhodiola is once again an adaptogen herb that allows our body to manage our stress in a more effective way. Whilst it is thought to be beneficial in strengthening the nervous system it is also believed to be helpful in treating mild depression, improving energy levels and sexual function plus improving memory and concentration. It has been found to help with anxiety and panic attacks. It’s believed Rhodiola increases brain serotonin by up to 30% and is beneficial for improvement of mood and lowering of stress levels. Interestingly, there have been some indications Rhodiola may be helpful in overcoming some addictions, particularly cannabis addiction.
Other herbs which may also help with treatment of stress and adrenal support are Rehmannia and Licorice.
I have found homoeopathic formulas to also be helpful because they can work quite quickly, whereas sometimes herbs may take a little while to be effective. There’s a particular formula which I love and have sold for many years. In fact, I have used it myself and found it to be very effective. Homoeopathics are also completely safe for children, and I’m certain there are many children who may be affected at this time. Bach flower remedies can also be helpful and are safe for children. Our animals also become anxious in these times, and we’ve found Bach Flower remedies can be helpful. They’re often used to help pets during thunderstorms and even when transporting animals.
If you wish to know more about treating or preventing stress and anxiety call in to see Bev and the team at, Go Vita, Your Health Shop at 5 North St in Batemans Bay or phone at 44729737. Don’t forget to tune in to Bev on 2EC every Wednesday at 12.45 pm.
]]>Saffron is often known as the ‘sunshine spice’, maybe because of its vibrant colour or maybe because it has been known to enhance our mood.
Because of the side effects of antidepressant medications, for some time there has been research into herbal remedies that may help with depression. This has led to studies into saffron which has found saffron may be helpful in dealing with mild depression. A meta-analysis of five published randomized controlled trials found supplementation with saffron significantly reduced symptoms of depression compared to the placebo trials. Interestingly when comparing the evidence between saffron supplementation and the antidepressant groups, the indications were that both treatments were similarly effective in reducing symptoms of depression. (1)
There are some indications saffron may also help with the treatment of anxiety as well as help those suffering from obsessive-compulsive disorder. Evidence from animal studies (2) showed treatment with saffron may induce anxiety-reducing benefits. Once again animal studies (3) also indicated there was a beneficial interaction between saffron and the serotonin-neurotransmitter system in the brain.
A new formula now available also includes Reishi Mushroom which may relieve fatigue and calm the mind. Zinc and vitamins B5 and B6 are also added to support brain function and energy production.
It is sad that whilst many of us enjoy life and generally have a great outlook on life, many in our community struggle with depression and anxiety. Unfortunately, the events over the past few years with bushfires and Covid, have not made it easy for many and I’m sure many are struggling with their mental health. Depression is one of the top five most prevalent diseases in the world. It is quite often indicated by a low mood, difficulty in thinking clearly, loss of interest as well as some physical complaints such as headaches, insomnia, low libido, and low energy.
According to Beyond Blue, it is estimated that 45% of Australians will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime. sometime during their life, experience one or more episodes of major depression. In any 1 year, approximately 1 million Australian adults will suffer from depression and 2 million will suffer from anxiety.
Whilst we would never advise anybody to cease taking their pharmaceutical anti-depressant medication, without first consulting their doctor. It is interesting to note saffron may be taken in conjunction with antidepressants, unlike other herbs such as St John’s Wort.
For more information call in to Go Vita, your health store at 5 North St, Batemans Bay to chat with Bev and the girls or phone at 0244729737. Don’t forget to tune into Bev on 2EC every Wednesday at 12.45 pm.
Although we will often blame pollens, dust etc. for our allergies, it may surprise many to learn, that the main cause of allergies actually lies within your immune system. When we are suffering from the typical hay fever symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes, itchy eyes, itchy, blocked or runny nose, it’s because our immune system has generally mistaken what is normally a harmless substance as a harmful one and then releases chemicals into our system which causes these annoying allergic reactions such as hay fever and sinusitis.
Many allergy sufferers live their lives trying to avoid those allergens that they know will set off an allergic reaction. I guess that’s fine if you know what is causing the allergic reaction, however to my mind a better option is to get to the cause of the problem which is the immune system. Obviously, if you are a hay fever or sinus sufferer it’s pretty well near impossible to avoid pollens and dust at this time of the year. We have found our customers gain much better results by taking a comprehensive approach to treating their allergies - that is treating their immune system. This can be a much more logical solution instead of looking for a ‘band-aid’ solution that only masks the symptoms. We suggest looking at a formula specifically developed to get to the core of your allergic condition.
Incredibly, the Chinese first developed what is known as Minor Bupleurum Combination (Xiao Chai Hu) during the Han Dynasty approximately 1800 years ago - and this formula continues to be one of the most effective and popular Chinese medicines used today! Essentially, this ancient formula helps to regulate our immune system and control all types of allergic reactions, especially those mediated by the IgE antibodies responsible for allergic reactions.
Minor Bupleurum Combination is a natural formula containing seven powerful Chinese herbs that are extremely effective in reducing the severity and frequency of a range of allergic conditions. These conditions include hay fever (rhinitis), allergic sinusitis, bronchial airway irritation, irritating skin conditions such as hives (urticaria), certain food allergies, allergic dermatitis and eczema. Due in part to its positive effect on liver function, it also works in easing a range of digestive symptoms, especially those associated with food allergy and intolerance, such as gastrointestinal inflammation, nausea, vomiting and reduced appetite.
We have been selling this combination of Chinese herbs for the treatment of allergies for many years and with great success. The great news is there is now a new formula which is triple the strength!
There is much positive feedback from customers taking this new formula, reporting it really assists with her allergies, particularly itchy eyes. Another had an allergy causing constant runny nose and itchy eyes and within half an hour of taking the first dose, she had no symptoms. Another reported it helped with hay fever, settling down itchy eyes.
Some time ago a woman returned to say after suffering from severe eczema all her life she now had skin like a ‘baby’s bottom’! This is typical of the many positive comments we hear about these herbs. We receive lots of positive feedback for the treatment of skin allergies and allergies affecting the gut.
For more information on allergies, call to see Bev and the team at Go Vita, your health shop at 5 North St, Batemans Bay, or phone on 44729737. Don’t forget to tune into Bev on 2EC every Wednesday at 12.45 p.m.
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