May 20, 2021

Health Benefits of Detoxification

Detoxication (detox for short) refers to the physiological removal of toxins from the body, and is a natural process that our organs are constantly carrying out.  However in our modern world, our bodies are exposed to various toxins on a daily basis; through the food and drink we consume, the products we use on our bodies, and the environmental toxins found in the air we that we breathe (both outside AND inside our homes).

 

Did you know that our carpets and furniture are pretty much all treated with chemicals that slowly release their toxic odours into the air? Which is why it’s super important to have your windows open as much as you can, and to invest in some lung-saving indoor plants!

 

HOW DOES THE BODY DETOX?

The liver is the cleansing house of the body, with one of its main roles being the removal of toxins.  But sooner or later its ability to detox efficiently may lessen due to continual loading / an increase in the number of toxins to be processed.  Imagine the liver as a little factory, trying to sort out and process toxins for elimination…

 

chemicals sprayed on our food, heavy metals & chlorine found in our water, chemicals in the products that we apply to our bodies, pharmaceutical drugs, alcohol, rancid fats and preservatives found in processed food…phew!  No wonder our livers can’t keep up.

 

When there are too many toxins to be processed for elimination, the liver stores them in our body fat to be dealt with at a later date (hello cellulite!). Excessive toxins stored in the body can present an endless number of problems and health concerns, such as migraines, inflammation, and acne.

 

 

BUT, by minimising your exposure to toxins, eating and drinking nourishing food and filtered water, and supplementing with detox-supporting supplements you give your liver the help it needs to do its job properly. Once processed, toxins are released into the lymphatic system, kidneys and bloodstream for elimination.

Remember, your body is constantly detoxing to keep you healthy and therefore you can help it to do so by providing it with the best possible nutrients. Keep reading to see our tips for supporting detoxification, and why this should be a priority in your health care.

 

WHY YOU SHOULD REGULARLY ‘DETOX’

There are many reasons why you should detox your body regularly, but the main ones are:

  • Helps to re-balance the body and repair damage 
  • Expels built-up environmental toxins
  • Reduces symptoms of headaches, aches, inflammation, acne and increased body fat
  • Reduces your dependency on stimulants like sugar, caffeine and refined carbohydrates

After a detox, your body will naturally absorb vitamins better.  This is because chemical toxins can block the body’s ability to absorb nutrients. Vitamins are the micronutrients that our body uses to perform certain functions, one of which is the conversion of food into energy. This is why, after supporting your body through a detox you end up with MORE ENERGY!

 

HOW WILL I FEEL DURING A DETOX?

People choose to detox for different reasons – weight loss, skin issues, increase energy…whatever the reason, it’s important to remember that EVERYONE’S BODY IS UNIQUE. This means that each of us will experience different feelings and emotions when detoxing, and may display different symptoms. 

You may notice a temporary worsening of any current symptoms you have, commonly known as a ‘detox reaction’. This is normal and can occur due to the release and elimination of toxins accumulated within your cells. 

The toxins being expelled from your body during this process may have been trapped in the cells for years! As a general rule, the more toxic the body is (or the longer you’ve been making poor lifestyle choices), the more intense the process. If you experience this reaction, it usually only lasts between 2-5 days before you feel better*. 

*Always listen to your body and if something doesn’t feel right, consult your doctor.  

 

 

HOW TO ASSIST YOUR BODY’S DETOX

It is always advisable to consult with your doctor or natural healthcare practitioner BEFORE commencing a detox, especially if you have existing health concerns or are on any medication.

Although “detox diets” may be thought of as controversial, specific foods and herbs have detoxification properties and there is evidence that supports regularly boosting the bodies detoxification processes with fresh fruits, vegetables, certain herbs, and filtered water. 

 

“Fad diets are NOT a way to detox your body…” 

 

…instead, focus on the below tips to help your body to detox:

  1. Increase your fluid intake, focusing on filtered water, herbal teas, fresh juices and healing broths
  2. Get enough sleep and allow your body to rest
  3. Reduce intensive exercise, instead focus on walking, yoga and other gentle forms of movement that get your blood flowing without putting additional stress on your body
  4. Ensure you are consuming easily digestible, whole, fresh foods to meet your daily nutrient requirements and to assist your organs with the elimination of toxins
  5. Include detoxification-boosting supplements as part of your detox plan
  6. You can find high quality, Naturopath Approved nutritional support products on our website, that have been specifically created to support your physiological processes – including detoxification. 

 

RECOMMENDED SUPPLEMENTS

NANOPRO

A vegan protein and detox recovery superfood. Containing all essential amino acids and using Supersorb technology that ensures your body absorbs and utilises every ingredient. 

The benefits of incorporating this protein into your daily routine:

  • helps detoxification by assisting the digestion system, 
  • balances your mood, 
  • Increases resistance to stress, 
  • lowers serum cortisol levels, and 
  • aids in the recovery and regeneration of internal tissues and muscle mass.
FEM21 HORMONE BALANCING SUPERFOOD

A unique formula of 21 ingredients designed to support women’s health holistically. FEM21 helps with liver and digestive cleansing, keeping everything running efficiently, from the elimination of toxins, to the absorption of nutrients.

BASICA ACTIV E

An alkalising mineral formula. As we age or consume an acid-forming diet, our body’s ability to cope with excessive acidity may diminish. This can contribute towards chronic health issues, such as bone loss, detoxification problems and fatigue.

Mineral citrates provide long lasting pH balance and do not disturb normal digestive processes, supports your detoxification and liver health, but also, increases energy production.

Taking these products may support your detoxification process and improve your quality of life by:

  • Increasing energy – when you are cleansed you have more energy, and without toxin overload, your body can process foods better.
  • Balancing your weight – a healthy detox done right can help excess weight to fall off. Plus the increased consumption of fresh fruit, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals make it easier to keep the weight off!
  • Helping to combat chronic disease – by reducing inflammation, many chronic disease states are positively affected.
  • Improving your skin and hair – how healthy your skin and hair look are good indications of your internal health, so having a good internal ‘spring clean’ can result in clearer skin (& eyes), shiny and strong hair (& nails!).
  • Slow down ageing – by slowing the rate of cellular decay.
  • Boosting your immune system – the increased vitamins and minerals taken during a detox can help to boost your immune response and cleanse the lymphatic system.d
  • Cleanse the digestive tract – waste can build up in your digestive tract, leading to slower digestion, constipation and a ‘foggy’ head.  The detoxification process can help to “sweep” the digestive tract and therefore improve digestion and elimination.

 

IN SUMMARY

Removing toxins from your body is one of the most important things you can do for maintaining optimal health and energy levels. Supporting the elimination organs, namely the liver but also the kidneys, lungs, skin and GI tract, through good nutrition and correct supplementation can help to boost your body’s natural detoxification process.

 

A detox is a great way to reboot your system, revitalise your body, and move forward feeling renewed.

 

If you have any questions or concerns regarding incorporating our products while detoxing, please call 07 4946 7910 to speak with one of our knowledgable operators.  Alternatively, consult your doctor

March 18, 2020

Boosting Immunity to Viral Infections

Boosting the immune system to kill a virus is different to trying to kill a bacterial infection.

Yes, I’m talking about the Corona Virus.

Are you taking the right medicine to protect yourself against viral infection?

Below are examples of patients who have enquired recently. You may find you relate to one of these senarios. The mentioned products are available at our clinic and can be couriered to you worldwide. Please note they are practitioner only products – strong and effective, so if you are interested please call 07 49467910 and qualified staff will chat to you about what is best.

Are you:

Trying to boost your immunity against the Corona Virus but you also have gut symptoms such as bloating? You need “Stealth Complex” by Mediherb which includes microbial killing encapsulated oils.

Prone to allergies and hoping to boost your immunity against the Corona Virus? You need “Liposomal liquid Vitamin C” by Bioceuticals. The Liposomal coating is the most potent format of Vitamin C available in the market today.

Often getting colds or the flu and know your respiratory system need a boost? You need “Immunocare” by Metagenics. The special type of highly absorbable zinc with Astragalus have been scientifically researched for efficacy.

Immune compromised (E.g. elderly, on chemotherapy, HIV etc)? You need to strictly follow medical advice, avoid crowds and speak to your Integrative Medicine Practitioner about products such as “Ribraxx”. Please call the clinic and speak to Racheal or Rowena as the complexity of your case requires further questions before prescription.

Aged under 12 and at school? You need “Immune Care For Kids” by Metagenics. Please remember that kids need a boost too. This powder tastes great and can be taken from 1-12 years.

Feeling healthy but wanting to remain proactive over the next few months whilst looking after other unrelated health issues such as hormone balance/ fatigue/ inflammation? Ask for liquid astragalus to be combined with a herbal mixture for your other ailments into one bottle. Liquid herbs are potent and effective.

October 17, 2019

How’s Your Mental Health?

Are you feeling weighed down? Is the pressures of daily life causing you to feel anxious, overwhelmed or depressed?  These are normal feelings. The good news? There is a way out of anxiety and depression.

Modern Day Pressures

In our modern day world, life just seems to be getting busier.  Between family commitments, work deadlines and that never ending to-do-list, it’s no wonder more and more people are experiencing mental dis-ease symptoms such as anxiety and depression.

These symptoms that must be taken seriously and treated as a health problem, without placing blame on the person suffering the condition. We do not blame others for their asthma or arthritis, so why blame someone for their depression?

Symptoms To Be Taken Seriously

Anxiety

Best described as a feeling of rushed stress. A person with anxiety may feel overwhelmed, like there are too many thoughts going on in their head. They may feel breathless, have chest pain, heart palpitations, difficulty sleeping and a racing mind. The worry, agitation and nervousness can cause people to act in ways that affect relationships and increased aggression.

Depression

The feeling of not wanting to get out of bed. Life feels pointless and there is a reduction in motivation and drive. Depression can cause people to reject their family and friends as they experience desolation, sadness and despair.

The loss of interest in life can cause people to make decisions detrimental to their health.

Anxiety and depression are seperate symptoms, but people can fluctuate between both throughout their life. Panic disorders, aggression, violence and even suicide are all a possibility when a person struggles with their mental health.

We All Need Help From Time To Time

This is why we need to take it seriously. If you have a child, a friend, a co-worker or an elderly parent who shows signs of anxiety or depression, it is your responsibility to help them. Show them this article, or start a conversation.

Every person on this planet needs food, shelter and love. Different personality types will respond in different ways. 

Take a look at Beyond Blue or call 1300 22 46 36 and talk to a professional to get some advice that can help you or someone you know.

Nourish Your Brain

Now, I want you to consider this… the brain requires certain vitamins and minerals for proper neurotransmitter production. Our brain requires things like serotonin and dopamine so that we can be happy, have motivation, energy and drive.

A poor diet, low in certain vitamins can contribute to causes of mental health issues. 

A health check up with blood testing is important to determine whether a person can improve their mental health through diet and supplements.

Pharmaceutical medications as well as counselling can also be extremely beneficial and psychology consultations can be covered under Medicare under a ‘mental health care plan’ which you can discuss with a GP.

Five Dietary Recommendations For A Healthy Mind:

  • Eat a diet high in good fats. Foods such as oily fish like salmon and mackerel, brazil nuts, walnuts, almonds and avocado are high in Omega 3. Alternatively, take a good quality fish oil supplement such as Kissun Pharmaceuticals Memory Power.
  • Take a good quality B vitamin supplement. My recommendation is Kissun Pharmaceuticals  CardiOz. B vitamins have been strongly linked with boosting energy, reducing stress and increasing motivation.
  • Talk to a clinical naturopath about whether herbs such as Gingko Biloba, Brahmi, Saffron or Passionflower may be useful
  • Eat adequate protein. The brain needs protein from foods like eggs, fish, turkey and lentils to promote healthy brain chemistry. Alternatively, take a good quality protein supplement such as nanopro Vegan Protein.
  • Drink plenty of water and avoid caffeine and alcohol. The brain needs adequate hydration and it is important to avoid stimulants such as coffee, especially in the instance of anxiety. Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant and should be avoided in both anxiety and depression.

Look after your self and your mental health, and be aware of the stresses that can creep up.

October 1, 2019

Fertility Success

When it comes to falling pregnant, sometimes it’s the simple things that are the most important. Once any structural issues or disease states are rules out, difficulty in falling pregnant can come down to the levels of specific nutrients that are required to facilitate the growing embryo.

The Fertility Rollercoaster

When trying for a baby, couples can come up against any number of issues that are frustrating and that they just don’t understand (sound familiar?).  Here are a few common ones:

  • Failed attempts at IVF
  • An irregular period, and not understanding if and when they ovulate
  • Difficulties cause by endometriosis or polycystic ovaries
  • Low sperm count, or damaged sperm

Being told that “everything seems ok… just keep trying”, yet after months of “keeping on trying” coupled with the high costs of IVF and still no positive result, you can be left feeling deflated, defeated and hopeless.  But don’t give up yet, these is still hope.

A Combined Approach

During what can feel like a fertility rollercoaster ride, it’s important to take stock of your health from a holistic point of view.  Below we cover the main points to keep in check and simple, yet effective ideas on doing so.

Checks and Balances

In most men and women, fertility is a natural by-product of a healthy lifestyle.  Sometimes though, even when we think we are leading a healthy lifestyle, there can be nutrient deficiencies, hormonal imbalances and toxic overload occurring in the body that we aren’t aware of.

Pathology, blood and hormone testing are ways in which simple deficiencies can be found.  There are over 170 different vitamin, mineral, hormone and toxin levels that can be checked, and the results may paint a clearer picture as to why things are not going as planned. As each individual brings with them their own set of health variables, it is recommended to see your local naturopath or fertility specialist to have your levels checked and balanced through a fertility health.

Nourish Your Body

Eating nutrient dense, whole foods is key in leading a healthy, fertile lifestyle.  When we say whole foods, think fruit, vegetables, nuts, legumes, seeds and herbs.  These foods are packed with essential vitamins and minerals such as zinc, selenium and antioxidants (important for sperm health), B vitamins, iron and folate (crucial for a healthy pregnancy) – AND SO MUCH MORE!

A Quick And Easy Nutrient Boost

Another simple way to boost your nutrient levels, and prime your body for conception, is by taking a premium quality supplement.  We suggest the following:

For Women

Kissun Mum-2-B Gold, a formula designed to support the healthy development of the unborn baby while providing the necessary nutrients to the mother to supporting a healthy pregnancy.

For Men

Kissun Cardioz, as it contains zinc, selenium and antioxidants to protect sperm health.

For Both

Nanogreens Vegetable and Fruit Superfood. In just one serving you get the antioxidant power of 10 servings of fruits and vegetables from 55 different ingredients. This green powder supplement is truly a powerhouse of nutrition and wellness, made easy.

Reduce Stress and Anxiety

The effects of stress and anxiety on the body can hinder conception.  When we are stressed, our body releases cortisol (the stress hormone) which, if left unchecked, can wreak havoc on our bodies. High cortisol levels may contribute to a loss in libido, affect a woman’s menstrual cycle, and has been linked to anxiety and depression.

Below are a few simple and effective ways of reducing stress and anxiety:

Acupuncture

This ages-old healing technique has been found to be effective for reducing anxiety.  The researchers of a 2016 study suggested that it impacts how the body triggers the fight-or-flight response.  In another randomized controlled clinical trial, it was  indicated that acupuncture may be successful in decreasing the perception of stress in staff and students and at a large urban university, with the effect persisting for at least 3 months after the completion of treatment.

Meditation

Meditation promotes relaxation and a sense of calm. When you are feeling stressed or anxious, this can be a useful technique to employ.  You could try a guided meditation, tapping meditation or just sit in a quiet place and completely focus on something such as your breath or a colour for 10 minutes.

Herbs

There are certain herbs that are potent sress-busters. For example Ashwagandha is a botanical herb from India that has been used for centuries to naturally lower stress and balance mood.  It has been scientifically proven to lower cortisol. You can find this herb in BioPharma Nanolean Support For Stress, Energy and Satiety.

When cortisol is low and the body is nourished, there is a greater chance of a healthy conception.

By making small, tangible changes like those listed above, not only will you both feel better and have more energy, your bodies will be primed for making a baby.

September 17, 2019

Identifying Hormonal Imbalances

Signs of hormonal imbalance include: 

  • Problems conceiving 
  • Hormonal acne on face or body 
  • Premenstrual tension
  • Weight gain and fluid retention 
  • Difficult menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes
  • Problems sleeping and anxiety 
  • Low sex drive 
  • Signs of osteoporosis 
  • Low energy
  • Mood swings
  • Polycystic ovaries or endometriosis

Do any of these symptoms prevent you from living life to its fullest?

Balancing your hormones as a female can be a tricky business

Adolescence, pregnancy, weight fluctuations, menopause and other factors can have a huge influence on our hormone levels.

Besides these normal phases in our life, exposure to hormones from the overuse of oral or implant contraception, plastic bottles (PCB’s), consumption of certain meats/dairy products and elevated stress levels can make it hard for our body to maintain hormonal balance. 

Women of all ages can be affected by this issue

The use of hormone replacement therapy in menopausal females has now been linked to a higher risk of breast cancer, cardiovascular disease and stroke (1). 

When hormone imbalance is the cause of bad acne the contraceptive pill is often prescribed as treatment. Unfortunately the pill has been linked to mood swings, weight gain and issues with fertility later on in life. Often the pill only masks symptoms rather than actually fixing the hormone imbalance. For this reason many women are turning to effective natural therapies for balancing their hormones. 

Fem21 – The Natural Solution

Fem21 is a herbal formula designed specifically for women that balances hormones, detoxifies the body and balances alkalinity. Supporting women’s health holistically, Fem21 is handcrafted from a unique formula of 21 ingredients known for the following actions .

For women, hormonal balance is extremely important. We’d all love to meet the different stages and cycles of female life feeling our very best, but for many this isn’t the case. Unfortunately a lot of women ride a monthly physical and emotional rollercoaster which impacts our quality of life. By naturally balancing our hormones we can feel energised, calm and in control.

The beautiful Fem21 formulation is a combination of functional foods, herbal medicine and natural therapies that balances out the hormones, helping you to feel and function at your best.

Fem21 supports the body by:

  • Stimulating the liver and digestive cleansing, which helps everything from the absorption of nutrients to the elimination of toxins.
  • Providing an array of powerful nutrients to control inflammation, reduce cellular oxidative stress and boost energy.
  • Supporting adrenal and thyroid function, which may decrease stress and boost metabolism.

Along with a healthy lifestyle and diet, the Naturopathic Fem21 formula has been developed to support your body to regain health, balance and vitality.

A Naturopaths Perspective

See what Integrative Medicine Naturopath Rowena has to say about FEM21

The Finer Details

  • Not recommended for use in pregnancy.
  • Not recommended whilst exclusively breastfeeding, generally safe after baby is 6 months.
  • Not recommended if using oral contraceptives or implant devices as it may alter the contraceptive action (can be used safely with an IUD)
  • Monitoring is advised with high blood pressure if sensitive to licorice.
  • Discuss use with your doctor or health care practitioner if you have any concerns
  • ALWAYS BE CAREFUL WHEN BUYING PRODUCTS THAT CLAIM TO HELP HORMONES.
  • There are a lot of products out there but do they actually work? Are they recommended by medically trained integrative medicine practitioners?

Manufacturing

Australian made and owned. 

Fem21 is made with HACCAP approved Private Label Foods in Molendinar on the Gold Coast in Australia and is totally Australian owned. The 21 natural ingredients are sourced from local suppliers where possible. 

See our Frequently Asked Questions page for answers to many of the questions we receive about Fem21.

September 2, 2019

Fem21 – The Functional Superfood Blend for Women

What Fem21 can help with:

  • Fertility/Infertility
  • PCOS
  • Endometriosis
  • Hormonal Acne
  • Menopause
  • Weight issues
  • PMS/PMT
  • Oestrogen dominance
  • Progesterone deficiency
  • Ovarian cysts
  • Fibroids
  • Irregular menstrual cycles including: length, pain, flow

The superfood blend contains 21 ingredients that supports the liver, digestion, adrenals, good bacteria in the gut, detoxification, hormonal metabolism, thyroid function, reduces oxidative stress and alkalizes the body. 

… and if you have special dietary requirements, you’ll be pleased by what Fem21 DOESN’T have:

What to expect when taking Fem21

The mix of herbs, superfoods, probiotics, antioxidants, greens and fibre has been specifically created to support liver & digestive cleansing, alkalise the body. and address hormonal imbalances that many women face.

Hormonal Balancing

The main active hormones throughout a woman’s life are estrogen (both good & bad), progesterone, and testosterone (plus the signaling hormones LH & FSH). The balance & metabolism of these hormones contributes to many physical symptoms & conditions.

One of the telltale signs to monitor for hormonal issues is menstruation & patterns of symptoms in each cycle. Heaviness, irregularity, pain & clotting are signs of imbalances, which can be addressed with appropriate support.

Our other endocrine glands including Thyroid (metabolism & weight control), Adrenals (energy & stress response) & Pancreas (sugar control & insulin resistance) also play a big part in our overall hormonal balance & general health.

Fem21 addresses multiple endocrine systems in the one formula for support, balancing & healing

Tthe effects of hormones fluctuating can play a big part on a woman’s quality of life & overall health. With a multitude of symptoms associated with menopause, anxiety, irritability, sleep disruptions, fatigue, weight problems, irregular periods, heavy periods, painful periods, PMS, low libido, fertility issues – and the list goes on.

Diet, lifestyle, activity levels, stress levels, weight and nutritional status can play a big part in the severity and longevity of hormonal symptoms. In an ideal world we’d all be happy, healthy and completely in balance and therefore not have any issues. However this is not a reality for many busy working women juggling family, work, study and other commitments.

When it comes to hormones it seems simple –  our ovaries release eggs (ovulation) and therefore our output of estrogen & progesterone from the ovaries happens cyclically and we get a period 2 weeks after ovulation. The tricky part is the fluctuations and the making of good estrogen & progesterone.

Below are the systems that require hormonal support in women and how we can do this naturally:

Hormones

Black cohosh is the herb used to increase levels of good estrogen (improving egg quality, cervical mucus, regulates flow of blood in a period). Broccoli & kale are superfoods which contain Indol-3-Carbynol (I-3-C) which works on estrogen metabolism and helps to lower testosterone (also improving symptoms of PCOS). When our body is holding on to too much potent (or toxic) estrogen it can be very difficult to lose weight. An imbalance in good to bad oestrogen is very common.

Women can produce & store too much toxic, potent, bad oestrogen metabolites and have difficulties eliminating them.

This can also throw out the balance of the many different types of oestrogen, imagine a seesaw with good oestrogen down the bottom and bad oestrogen at the top.  Often termed “oestrogen dominance”, this can lead to a multitude of issues like endometriosis, infertility, ovarian cysts, fibroids, fibrocystic breasts, swollen painful breasts and oestrogen dependent cancers – eek.

Also when the body has an excess of bad oestrogen it will convert it to testosterone which can lead to PCOS, acne, pigmentation, strong dark hairs sprouting, hair loss and sometimes hair growth in areas we don’t want (back, chest, face). Unfortunately there is a little enzyme called aromatase which is involved in the hormone balance between testosterone and oestrogen, which is sensitive to stress, thyroid function and nutrients (like zinc & B6).  

When bad oestrogen is detoxified effectively (via the liver & digestive tract) and good oestrogen is restored, this process allows our menstrual cycles to become regular and balanced.  This improves health in the eggs, the symptoms around ovulation and leads to a healthier, stronger endometrial lining – this is certainly important with fertility. 

Chaste tree is the herb that works to regulate ovulation & cycle length as well as increasing progesterone which plays a big part in PMS. It is extremely important to have a good balance between oestrogen and progesterone.  Progesterone comes in after ovulation and peaks in the middle of the luteal phase, when there is not enough progesterone to balance oestrogen problems can certainly occur.  A lack of progesterone also heightens the symptoms associated with bad oestrogen or oestrogen dominance, making the pre-menstrual period a nightmare. 

A lack of progesterone also makes the symptoms of menopause a lot worse.   Chaste tree has the action of regulating dopamine and thereby reducing hormonally fuelled emotional states like irritability. Chaste tree can also work on increasing melatonin secretion in the pineal gland & help with quality of sleep. Understandably it’s important to get the hormone balance right and maintain it through our beautiful lives as women.

Adrenals

A healthy adrenal system is vital for our stress response, energy levels, emotional state and quality of sleep.

Cortisol is produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress and lowers progesterone levels. Cortisol is made from progesterone, our adrenals help to make progesterone along with the progesterone released from the corpus luteum. If we are stressed, “running on adrenaline”, “always on the go” or our adrenals are burnt out then our progesterone is converted to Cortisol.

Lifestyle adjustments to maintain a healthy emotional balance, low stress levels and reduced stimulants like caffeine & alcohol are vital for our adrenals.

Nutrients and herbs can also help our adrenals immensely especially B-vitamins, vitamin C, zinc, Licorice, Siberian Ginseng & Withania.

Thyroid

Thyroid function plays a big part in healthy metabolism throughout our body not only in weight loss but also in hormonal metabolism (estrogen & testosterone). When this system is sluggish it can feel like our whole body is slowing down and not working very efficiently.  

Bladderwrack & Withania are herbs that help to balance and support the thyroid gland to produce more thyroid hormones. This also helps to improve energy levels, clear brain fog, loose weight, lift mood, reduce headaches, improve dry skin, reduce the thinning of hair and lift vitality.

Liver

Our liver is where the majority of our hormonal metabolism is taking place and is one of the vital organs which keeps us healthy & filters out toxins.  The liver is know as the “brain of the gut”. When it comes to hormonal metabolism of toxic oestrogen the liver filters these hormones out and dumps them into the bowel to detoxify them out of our body.

Supporting liver function through diet & lifestyle choices includes reducing chemical exposure, eating organic when possible, minimising processed foods, reducing the intake of alcohol, caffeine and medication (where possible).

Herbs that help to support liver function include Milk Thistle, Dandelion, Kale & Rosemary. These herbs/foods also work well to decrease oxidative stress in the liver (antioxidants) as well as throughout the body.

Digestion

Digestive function is crucial to nutrient absorption & elimination of toxins. A sluggish bowel or build up of bad bacteria is very common. This can be due to a lack of energy, nutrients (like zinc & magnesium) low activity levels, dietary choices and medication.

Fibre, both soluble & insoluble, leads to a clearing in the bowels of the metabolites from the liver detoxification processes and prevents recycling of hormones. Slippery Elm reduces inflammation along the digestive track as seen in IBS, women with food sensitivities and can improve “leaky gut syndrome” which creates systemic inflammation & puts more pressure on the liver.

Psyllium husks is a wonderful fibre which regulates bowel motions and clears out any built up fecal material in the colon. Multi-Strain Lactobacillus, Bifidiobacterium & Saccharomyces all work to re-inoculate the bowel with good bacteria, reduce inflammation and improves signaling to the immune system.

Antioxidants/Alkalizing

This is very important to sustain health. Antioxidants repair damage to the body ensuring that everything functions & is well maintained. Pomegranate, Ginger & Raspberry are very high in antioxidants especially associated with women’s health.

Wheatgrass & Barleygrass are deep greens high in chlorophyll which alkalize the blood and reduce oxidative stress. They also provide a rich source of phyto-nutrients and contain no gluten which can be irritating for some people. Due to the bitter constituents of wheatgrass & barley grass they can also benefit the digestive system by increasing the release of digestive enzymes to break down foods.

When not supported adequately or too much pressure is placed on these systems our quality of life can be influenced dramatically. Thank goodness for a daily, long term solution like Fem21.

The taste of Fem21 is quite palatable as it includes stevia as a natural plant sweetener and contains licorice & raspberry which improves the flavour against the more bitter herbs. Licorice has been shown in some people to increase blood pressure, this can be of benefit for women who are experiencing dizziness or vertigo but should be monitored in women that have issues with high blood pressure. 

Fem21 is a wonderful alternative to the OCP and the known side effects of this medication, to help support women’s general health & hormone balance.

Fem21 Timeline

Each woman is unique with differing needs for their body, however below is a timeline of what you may experience after introducing Fem21 into your lifestyle: 

If you have any other questions, please see the Fem21 FAQ page.

August 18, 2019

The Role Of Good Fats In Diabetes Type II

When we think about the word diabetes, most of us commonly think of “too much sugar”, but did you know the problem often arises firstly due to bad fats? Let’s explore this idea a little further.

What Is Diabetes Type II

Diabetes type II is diagnosed when a person has too much glucose (sugar) floating about in their body instead of inside the cells. 

In a healthy person, when we eat sugar, it goes in to our body, pairs up with insulin and then penetrates into our red blood cells. If we don’t have enough insulin, or if our cells have a layer of bad fat around them, sugar can’t get inside so it floats about on the outside and damages our body. 

We need to fix this layer of bad fats by consuming less bad fats and more fish oils, nut oils and flaxseed/linseed.

The Role Of Insulin

Insulin is like you best friend who has the spare key to your house and you are sugar. You come home and realise you left your keys at work, insulin will come over and unlock the door so you can get in. Once you (sugar) are in the house (cell) you can make energy.

What You Can Do To Help Your Health

Diabetes is Australia’s FASTEST GROWING CHRONIC DISEASE and is the 6th leading cause of death in Australia. For some sufferers, genetics and other underlying diseases are the cause, but for most sufferers, Diabetes type II is due to a sedentary, unhealthy lifestyle.

Those with diabetes type II must ensure they follow a diet suitable for their condition. 

Many diabetics are on medications but there are a number of health supplements which are vital for the health of diabetic patients, and should be taken in conjunction with their pharmaceutical medications.

Supplements That Can Help

Take a look at the list of supplements below for those suffering from, or at risk of Diabetes type II.

nanoEPA – Supplementation with Fish Oil will slowly but surely change the lining of our red blood cells. It will allow our bone marrow to produce more cells with a healthy Omega 3 coating. This type of coating will allow glucose to penetrate more freely. This means there will be less glucose circulating outside the blood cell!

Sugar Balance – This supplement taken before the two biggest meals of the day is extremely effective in reducing sugar cravings, carb cravings, and regulating our energy throughout the day.

CardiOz – This supplement contains antioxidants and vitamins to help protect the cells. Heart disease affects many of those suffering type II diabetes later on in life, so CardiOz functions as a protection to these types of diseases. CardiOz also contains vitamin E which helps with slow healing wounds, itching skin and infections, which can become a problem in type II diabetes.

Remember, for many sufferers of diabetes type II, the disease can be reversed or improved. Speak to your Naturopath about a diet and supplements regime which is easy to follow and conducive to your lifestyle.

August 1, 2019

A Flawless Complexion

Healthy, vibrant, beautiful skin is not easy for everyone to achieve.

It was once thought that a skin care regime using fancy products was the answer, but as It turns out, many women using high-end skin care products are also purchasing foundations, concealers and powders to cover up their blemishes, pigmentation and uneven skin tone. We may look stunning with a thick layer of makeup, but this is not true beauty.

True Beauty

Imagine waking up in the morning, looking in the mirror and being completely happy with the way your skin looks. Healthy, hydrated, no dark circles around your eyes and ready to face the day with minimal or no makeup.

True beauty stems from being comfortable and confident in your own skin. Beautiful, healthy skin along with a healthy body and mindset are, in my opinion, the way to go.


Flawless Skin In 7 Steps

Here is 7 things we can all do to achieve a flawless complexion:

You are what you eat

Colourful, fresh healthy food will improve your body’s ability to detoxify as well as generate healthy skin cells.

Coffee, alcohol and packaged foods are by far the worst things we can consume.

Every single mouthful of food and drink should be consumed with intent, with the objective of nourishing your body so that it can perform and regenerate at its best. The biggest issue here is that we don’t often think before we eat. Why did you need to eat chocolate after dinner? Why did you eat those biscuits when you know you have a food intolerance?

If we plan our meals and snacks, just like we plan our day, it is much harder to make unhealthy decisions.

Use high quality, natural skin care

Don’t put chemicals on your skin! The product may feel or smell nice, but what are the chemicals doing to you long term?  Our skin is our largest organ and absorbs nearly everything we put on it. 

Once absorbed, chemicals can be absorbed into the blood, filtered through organs or stored in our fat tissue (hello unsightly cellulite).

By choosing natural skin care products, you’re not only giving your skin cells the best nourishment, you’re avoiding unnecessary toxic overload in your body. 

We recommend the Kissun Skin Science Pack. A 3 step beauty regime that lightens skin tone, evens out pigmentation and wrinkles, boosts collagen production, and smooths and rejuvenates the skin!

Adequate hydration

Just like a car needs fuel to drive, your body needs water to thrive.  Every biochemical function in your body depends upon H2O, including those functions that keep your skin healthy.

Our organs, namely the liver, kidneys and bowels, depend upon water to help flush out toxins.  Without adequate water supply, toxins can build up and may cause anything from high blood pressure to fatty liver disease, obesity, fatigue and chronic inflammation.

Our skin (the amazing organ that it is) will let you know when your inner health is out of balance.  Think skin pigmentation, dark circles under the eyes, acne and sagging.  The point – drink more water for a vibrant, healthy complexion.

Plentiful antioxidants

Does your plate look like a rainbow? Next time you look at your breakfast, lunch or dinner plate, check how many colours you have. A bowl of porridge can be ‘coloured’ up with fresh berries, apricots, almonds and pumpkin seeds. A dinner of rice and curry could have a side of beetroot, steamed broccoli and carrot sticks.

Colourful food increases our antioxidant intake and our skin needs this to correct skin imperfections.

If you’re struggling to eat enough fruits and vegetables and feel like you need an anti-oxidant boost, why not try a good quality supplement?

We recommend Kissun Skin Science “Beauty From Within”.

Beauty From Within

  • Containing antioxidants, detoxifying herbs and colourless carotene from white tomatoes to create flawless, healthy skin from the inside out
  • Rose-hip provides high level of antioxidants
  • Vitamin C has been proven to assist in skin health and healing
  • Cysteine HCL is a well researched ingredient which helps to detoxify and protect the skin from every day pollutants.

Avoidance of sugar and preservatives

Do you recognise all the ingredients in your food? Turn the packet around and take a look at all those numbers and big words.  They don’t sound natural, do they?

Be careful with what you choose to eat. Preservatives, sugar and chemicals in food have been linked to many health problems and prevention is better than cure.

Be sun smart

UV rays damage our skin. They can cause dry, pigmented skin, which is difficult to improve when caused by the sun. Excess UV exposure is linked to skin cancers and are very common in Australia, so please be careful.

  • Use a natural sunscreen
  • Keep out of the sun in the hottest parts of the day
  • Wear a hat and sunglasses

Balanced hormones

Have you noticed pigmentation around the face increase as your hormones have changed? Peri-menopause and the change in hormones can often create dark patches on the skin.

Herbal medicine, functional foods and natural therapies for hormonal imbalances, such as the beautiful Fem21 formulation, can be a wonderful alternative to help you look and feel your best.

Fem21 is a therapeutic blend of herbs, superfoods, greens and probiotics formulated specifically for women.

So if you want that “I woke up like this” natural beauty look, start from the inside and work your way out with clean food and water, good quality supplements, natural skin care products and avoiding the harsh sun.

July 18, 2019

Your Body Is Designed To Move

It’s never too late to start moving your body and achieving optimal health.  By exercising you will feel energetic, strong and motivated.  Exercising can be tough for some though, for different reasons. Can you relate?

There are many reasons why people struggle to exercise.  Whether it be a time constraint, an injury or illness or just not feeling motivated to do so.  Below we have some great tips that tackle these reasons, and more.  Read on…

What’s Stopping You From Moving?

If you’re suffering from one of the following health issues below, read on to see what type of exercise will suit you.

FATIGUE

If you are waking up in the morning feeling sluggish, or finding it hard to concentrate at work after lunch, it sounds like fatigue is becoming a problem. Having your B vitamins, iron and CoQ10 levels checked is important. 

A good quality B vitamin may help provide some get up and go.  Try Kissun Pharmaceuticals ‘CardiOz’.

Exercise can be difficult for those suffering fatigue as it is hard to get started, but if you commit to getting up a little bit earlier and pushing yourself to do a small amount of exercise you will in fact have more energy in the long run.

GOAL

  • Set your alarm and get up 30 minutes earlier  
  • Have a big glass of water
  • Walk for 10 minutes down your street, then 10 minutes back
  • Try to go a little further each time

One day your walk may turn into a power walk, which may turn into a light jog. After only three or four days your joints will be limber, your muscles relaxed and your blood will be pumping to the brain, delivering the nutrients it requires for energy.

OSTEOPOROSIS

For those over the age of 55, bone density screening is important. Brittle bones are often caused by many years of coffee, tea and soft drink consumption. A deficiency in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, boron, vitamin D and silica can also be to blame. 

Osteoporosis usually goes hand in hand with joint stiffness and pain.  Kissun Pharmaceuticals ‘Ruflex’ supports bone and joint health, and may relieve the symptoms of mild arthritis.

We strengthen our bones by using the muscles around them. 

GOAL

  • Try lifting light weights, as well as using your body weight to climb stairs 
  • Find a YouTube video on how you can begin a simple weights session from your own home

INSOMNIA

When you go to bed at night and find it hard to fall asleep, consider this – have you moved your body enough today to have expelled your excess energy? 

The body was designed to move, and if you don’t get your blood pumping each day, even for as little as 20 minutes, your brain will not like the idea of sleep. 

GOAL

  • Take a walk after dinner, it will help you digest your food and get your body and brain ready for sleep

CONGESTED SKIN

Our skin is the largest organ of the body and it does a wonderful job of removing toxins. But this can only happen effectively if we drink enough water and sweat. 

Any physical activity that raises our heart rate will make us sweat. Bike riding, aerobics, a brisk walk or skipping is a quick way to get the heart rate up. Raising our heart rate will help with weight loss and keep our cardiovascular system healthy.

GOAL

  • Text a friend and arrange a time to meet and do something active
  • Take a look at the local gyms, rock climbing centres, public pools or bushwalking clubs

SET A GOAL & REAP THE REWARDS

Having goals is a great way to motivate yourself to exercise. Your goal can be anything from walking your dog five days a week, to climbing a mountain in the Himalaya. Or if you’re stuck, follow the goals mentioned above.

When you accomplish your goal, you will feel accomplished, successful and motivated to do even more. 

HOT TIP: you could include a reward for achieving your goal.  For example, if you walk your dog 5 days in a row you reward yourself with an hour massage!

Make moving your body a priority and reap the rewards!

July 1, 2019

Is Your Child Behaving Badly? Check Their Nutrition Status

Does your child have a behavioural issue? Before going down the path of medical diagnosis and medication, I encourage you to take these seven easy steps to look for a change in behaviour. 

Many happy teachers and parents have reported results in as little as one week!

Seven Tests To Help Work Out The Reason Behind Your Childs Behaviour

Food Intolerances 

Symptoms of food intolerances are not just centred around the gut. Besides tummy pains, constipation or diarrhoea, food intolerances can also cause fatigue, skin issues, asthma and even stuttering. 

Simply put, when a child eats a food they are intolerant to, it is very common for their behaviour to suffer.

Heavy Metal Testing

Confusion, fatigue, exhaustion and learning difficulties can all be attributed to heavy metal toxicity. Heavy metal exposure can be caused by water or air pollution, industrial exposure, foods sprayed with pesticides, improperly coated food containers, medicines, or the ingestion of lead-based paints. 

MTHFR and Pyrrole testing

Genetic testing for mutations in genes is becoming more popular as scientists have become aware that some of us are unable to absorb certain vitamins from food. 

Without those vitamins, behavioural issues can become apparent.  In such cases supplementation will not work well unless testing is done and the correct supplements are given, at the correct dosage for the condition.

Vitamin B12

Symptoms of B12 deficiency can include low appetite, nervousness, behaviour and energy issues. There may also be underlying gut issues. 

A deficiency of B12 can cause issues with memory which can be a huge problem in the classroom. The brain and nervous system require B12 for adequate function and good bacteria in the gut is needed for absorption to occur. 

Iron

Iron deficiency is more prevalent than you may think. Low iron causes issues with behaviour, memory, concentration and may cause dizziness, breathlessness or pica (eating odd items like rocks or dirt). 

An underlying parasitic bowel infection can also be the cause for iron deficiency. 

Children with poor immunity must have their iron levels checked, as iron is an important component for strong immunity. If your child has not been wormed then this must also be done.

Folic acid

Folic acid has been scientifically shown to provide great benefits in issues such as headaches, numbness, weakness, epilepsy, behavioural issues and nervous system disorders. 

There is a lot of talk around folic acid during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects, but we must remember that the brain and nervous system are still growing in childhood too, so we must prevent deficiency. 

Omega 3 

Studies have shown that essential fatty acids (EFAs), especially omega-3 EFAs, can reduce inflammation and improve your immune system and brain function. 

Without omega 3, all other vitamins may not absorb well, therefore omega 3 is imperative for any child with behavioural issues.  This is especially true if the child has an omega 3 deficiency.

Testing for the above can be done at your local Naturopath or GP.

Boost Nutrition Easily

Did you know we need 3 times as many vegetables today to make up for the nutrients lacking in our soil? Almost everyone should consume 7-9 daily servings or more of fruits and vegetables of all the colours.

For those who find it difficult to get their kids to consume this amount daily (always the best way), current science appears to support supplementing with fruit and vegetable juice powders rich in polyphenols as the next best thing.

So a quick and easy way to boost your child’s nutrition status, and possibly improve their behaviour, is by including a good supplements in their diet.

Recommended Supplements

NanoEPA

A solution for those who need omega-3 fatty acids in their diet. 

Benefits:

  • Healthy cholesterol and triglyceride levels
  • Balanced hormones
  • Improved joint function
  • Healthy heart and brain function
  • Radiant skin, hair and nails
  • Powerful antioxidant protection
  • Healthy immune function
  • Anti-inflammatory protection against disease
  • Cardiovascular and metabolic health
  • Cellular protection and nourishment

Nanogreens Vegetable and Fruit Superfood

In just one serving you get the antioxidant power of 10 servings of fruits and vegetables from 55 different ingredients. This green powder supplement is truly a powerhouse of nutrition and wellness, made easy.

Nanoreds Fruit and Vegetable Superfood

Packed with super fruits and vegetables, with a concentration on high-antioxidant berries.

The Benefits Of Antioxidants

Do you know the incredible benefits of phytonutrients and antioxidants?

Here are just a few:

  • Cellular nourishment and protection
  • Naturally increase your energy level
  • Assist your weight-loss efforts by reducing your appetite and improving your metabolism
  • Reduce inflammation and help relieve your stiff joints and achy muscles
  • Lower your risk of cancer, diabetes, heart disease and stroke
  • Protect your vision from age-related vision loss and blindness (ARMD)
  • Help you maintain strong bones
  • Support your immune function and increase your resistance to infections
  • Reduce allergy symptoms without drowsiness
  • Improve your mental acuity, protecting your mind and memory
  • Detoxify toxic metals and chemicals
  • Help slow ageing of your skin and dulling of your hair
  • Restore healthy digestion
  • Inhibit the hardening of arteries

We hope this information can help you and your child lead healthier, happier lives.