Go Mag Issue 57 is packed with great articles full of effective simple solutions to help you stay in shape this season!
THE GOOD HEALTH NEWS MAGAZINE ®
SWEET & HEALTHY TREATS Easter
BOOSTING CHILDREN’S HEALTH
BREAKTHROUGH RESEARCH: RELIEF FOR DOG ARTHRITIS
ENERGY FOR YOUR WHOLE LIFE I GOVITA.COM.AU
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welcome As I sit reflecting on the past six months and the horror so many Australian families have endured with drought and fires and the subsequent losses that ensued, one can’t help but be proud of our nation’s ability to commit and respond in a crisis. As an Australian owned organisation of course we felt we had to do something and have donated $15,000 to Redcross, Wires and Wildlife Victoria in the hope that this can in some way assist in rebuilding devastated communities. For around seven of our stores who were impacted by the fires, a number of our suppliers have donated product directly to those stores to help their communities. We are eternally grateful to these suppliers for their kind donations: EnviroCare, Herbs of Gold, NutriVital, Prana On, Thursday Plantation, Martin & Pleasance, Kiwi Herbs, TurmeriX, Springfields, Nutra-Life, Orgran, Cloverfields, Summerland Camels, Weleda, Aromaganics, Grants, Amazonia, HiVita and Onno Behrends. The negative impact on our air quality in recent months cannot be underestimated and we would recommend you read the tips on page 5 to get your lung health on track. By the time you receive this issue of Go Magazine, children will have returned to school and daily routines will be in place (we hope!) Don’t miss our article on children’s health and how to keep their immune systems healthy so they spend fewer days at home! With Easter just around the corner too, enjoy our Easter treats recipes on pages 30 and 31. Wishing you health and happiness in 2020, Ann Cattelan BSc Editor
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HEALTHY RECIPES
Cover image: Healthy Ginger Loaf see page 30 for recipe
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Issue 57 ISSN 1832-5556 Editor: Ann Cattelan BSc • hworks@bigpond.net.au Content Editor: Pamela Allardice • pamelaallardice@bigpond.com Art Direction: Tanya Lee Design • tanya@tldesign.com.au Advertising Inquiries: marketing@govita.com.au
The views expressed in Go are those of the original authors and not those of the Editor or the Publisher. Every care is taken to compile and check the content of the publication for accuracy, but the Publisher, authors, their servants and agents are not responsible or liable for the continued currency of the information or for any published errors, omissions or inaccuracies, or for any consequences arising therefrom. The inclusion or exclusion of any treatment or product in editorial or advertising does not imply that the Publisher advocates or rejects its use. Information presented is for information purposes only and is not intended to replace advice or treatment from qualified healthcare professionals.
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Safeguard and improve your children’s health and get their year off to a great start with proper diet and appropriate supplementation. Starting school Well
HEALTH REPORT
T he Go Vita team top tips for strengthening the young immune system, supporting mental and physical health, and dealing with common childhood ailments. of wholistic health experts share their Building a strong immune system Healthy development of the immune system depends on good nutrition to provide the body with the essential building blocks needed for defence against pathogenic bacteria and viruses as well as environmental toxins. Avoid processed and refined foods, such as white flour products, margarine and hydrogenated oils, and ensure your child’s diet provides good quantities of protein, vitamins and minerals, essential fatty acids and probiotics. Proteins are essential as a source of amino acids needed as building blocks for the immune tissue and organs and for antibody production. Good sources of dietary protein include: lean meat,
poultry and fish; eggs; dairy products, like milk and cheese; seeds and nuts; beans and legumes, such as lentils and chickpeas; and soy products, like tofu. Vitamins and minerals: Vitamin A is essential for the production of T- and B-cells (the main antibody-producing white blood cells); vitamin A is also needed for healthy eyes. The B-group vitamins support nerve and mood health and help to mitigate the negative effects of stress in the body. Vitamin C is a If your child is a picky eater, give them nutritional insurance in the form of a good quality multivitamin formula every day. powerful antioxidant and plays a big part in defending the body against bacteria and viruses, encouraging antibody response and killer T-cell production, and stimulating macrophage activity to eat up invading micro-organisms. VitaminE,anotherpowerfulantioxidant, protects cells against the damage caused by free radicals which is thought to lead to
cancer, heart disease and cataracts. Zinc is necessary for optimal hormonal health and immune function, tissue healing and repair, and has strong antiviral activity; magnesium supports mental and emotional health; calcium is essential for healthy bone development; coenzyme Q10 is an immune-building agent, critical to fighting infection; and selenium increases the body’s production of antibodies. Essential fatty acids (EFAs) , especially the omega-3 fatty acids, are very important to a healthy immune system. They are
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crucial to the normal functioning of lymphocytes and the production of antibodies. They are needed as building blocks for endocrine hormones as well as tissue prostaglandins; plus, they are necessary for the healthy functioning of the heart, kidneys, blood and nervous system, particularly brain and memory function. Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids include cold-water fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, herring and sardines. There is some research indicating that omega-3 supplements may help decrease ADHD symptoms in children. While research is ongoing, improvements in attention, memory, learning and hyperactivity have been noted in some trials. Probiotics: These are the ‘friendly’ bacteria which create a proper balance of health-promoting bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract and intestines and help the body to resist diseases caused by ‘unfriendly’ bacteria. Probiotics also manufacture natural antibiotic substances that kill dangerous microbes in the body. Probiotics are especially useful for anyone taking antibiotics to treat an infection, helping to counter the flatulence, diarrhoea, constipation and poor nutrient absorption
which can occur with taking antibiotics. Probiotics alleviate the symptoms of bowel inflammation and contribute to overall colon health, helping to relieve diarrhoea and constipation triggered by irritable bowel syndrome or food poisoning, and replenishing the beneficial intestinal micro-organisms that gastrointestinal upsets flush out of the body. Foods which encourage the growth of probiotics in the body include
Natural healing
Take a more active role in the health of your children by stocking an all-natural medicine chest to safely treat common ailments. Sinusitis: Use herbal steam baths with eucalyptus, lavender, rosemary or thyme essential oil; these will all loosen mucus, stimulate sinus secretions and decrease microbial activity, so resolving the infection. Stress: Nervine herbs, such as lavender, skullcap, oats, lindenflower and lemon balm, can be useful during times of stress and to deal with symptoms like insomnia, headache, restlessness or nervousness. Lavender oil applied directly to the temples may help to soothe and relax.
leafy green vegetables, Jerusalem artichokes
(containing fructo- oligosaccharides), milk products, such as yoghurt, whey and kefir, and miso or
sauerkraut. If your child is not a fan of these then a daily
probiotic may help
strengthen digestive and immune health.
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I N PROF I LE
A S weet deal Forest facts The forests which grow along the Great Divide are Victoria’s richest ecological asset. They are home to the tallest flowering trees on the planet - trees which store more carbon per hectare than any other forest in the world.
E njoy delicious chocolate Easter eggs and support our national parks and endangered species at the same time? Sign us up! At Go Vita, we love a sweet treat (or two!), so we are big fans of Loving Earth, an ethical wholefoods company that makes delicious plant-based chocolate and cereals. Loving Earth is passionate about putting the planet first, so that means their products are made from organic sources and their packaging is 100 per cent compostable. Our cutest owl Loving Earth’s environmental commitment inspired the creation of their Boobook Chocolate Eggs, which are named for the boobook, Australia’s tiniest owl. This little cutie calls home the great forests which grow along Victoria’s Great Divide, from Kinglake through to Baw Baw and up to Eildon. However, these forests - and the wildlife they provide with shelter - are currently under threat from logging
and fires. The boobook population is decreasing due to habitat fragmentation; the same is true for the critically endangered Leadbeater’s possum. The folks at Loving Earth are determined to do something about this, so they are supporting The Great Forest National Park (GFNP) campaign, an initiative which aims to have these forests declared a National Park. If the GFNP is successful, the new National Park will become a vibrant tourist destination, while protecting and preserving native trees, animals, water catchment, biodiversity and habitat. You can help in the sweetest way, by buying Loving Earth plant-based boobook eggs this Easter
They are also home to a huge range of indigenous wildlife, including the boobook owl and the Leadbeater’s possum. These forests are Victoria’s largest supplier of clean water and act as the state’s most important water catchment area, supplying the Latrobe and the Goulburn-Murray systems as well as 90 per cent of water for the city of Melbourne. From a spiritual perspective, traditional indigenous custodians say these forests are “a keeping place”: that is, a place to secure the story of the land and its ability to provide spiritual nourishment, so that this wisdom may be passed on to future generations.
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Breathe easy
I N PROF I LE
T he recent bushfires have caused widespread poor air quality, which can harm health. Are you at risk? It is well established that air pollution can cause heart and lung problems; now research has discovered a link between bushfire smoke and heart attacks. Here is what you need to know. How does bushfire smoke affect you? Bushfire smoke is comprised of water vapour, small particles and gases, including carbon monoxide. Common effects of exposure are itchy or burning eyes, throat irritation, a runny nose and coughing. However, the smaller and finer the particles in the smoke, the more damaging their effects. For example, particles less than 2.5 microns in aerodynamic diameter (PM2.5)
effect. Smoke causes inflammation via oxidative damage so as well as omega-3s antioxidants such as vitamins C and E can be helpful. In an air polluted environment, a healthy diet with adequate intake of essential micronutrients (including B vitamins, vitamins C, E
can reach lung alveoli, negatively affecting cardiovascular and respiratory function. Who is most at risk? People with pre-existing heart or lung conditions, like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema and bronchitis; pregnant women; the elderly and young children University of Tasmania environmental health expert Fay Johnson adds that if you can see or smell smoke, then you should minimise your exposure, particularly if you are in the high-risk group. What can you do? Stay indoors, or leave the area. Use an air conditioner or portable air filter. Avoid outside physical activity, and wear a mask (P1 or P2, from hardware stores). Omega-3 fatty acids (2-3 grams per day) have a natural anti-inflammatory
and D) may be critical to reduce the risk of lung disease.
Golden formulas for children’s health
Always read the label. Follow the directions for use. Vitamins & mineral supplements should not replace a balanced diet.
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Protein Pregnancy Plus Mum and Bub Nourish
HEALTH REPORT natural Pregnancy Every expectant mother wants her baby to be healthy and safe. Try these ideas to nurture your body and mind, protect your baby, and ease common pregnancy ailments.
CERTIFIED ORGANIC PLANT BASED PROTEIN WITH 14 ⁺ WHOLEFOOD VITAMINS & MINERALS FOR PREGNANT & NURSING MOTHERS
Choose the right foods The top pregnancy foods include broccoli (for folate, calcium and antioxidant vitamins A, C and E); berries (also rich in folate, plus vitamin C and phytonutrients); natural yoghurt (one serving contains a quarter of your daily
requirement of calcium); oily fish, such as herring, mackerel and wild salmon (a great source of brain-boosting omega-3 fatty acids); olive oil (rich in vitamin E plus oleic acid to boost development of baby’s brain and nervous system); and whole grains (provide antioxidant lignans to keep gut flora healthy as well as fibre to prevent constipation and haemorrhoids). Supplementation with folic acid and iron is usually recommended during pregnancy, but do not self-prescribe - seek professional advice on dosage. Add a protein powder
Protein requirements increase by 30 per cent during pregnancy; protein is also particularly important during the last two trimesters, because this is when most of the baby’s growth occurs. A handy new product to try is Amazonia’s Raw Protein Pregnancy Plus, a certified organic, plant-based and non-synthetic protein powder which contains 14 wholefood nutrients, including naturally-occurring folate, zinc, iron, and B-group vitamins. Add a spoonful to a smoothie or sprinkle it over cereal or yoghurt.
Conception Pregnancy Nursing
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Drink up Keeping well hydrated is vital for all that extra blood circulating in your body, working hard to deliver nutrients to keep you and your baby healthy. It also helps your brain function, helps prevent constipation, and flushes out bacteria that may cause urinary tract infections. Research findings on the effects of caffeine during pregnancy vary, but drinking large amounts has been associated with miscarriage, insomnia and headaches, and also interferes with the uptake of iron and folic acid.
Prioritise relaxation
For your wellbeing and the health of your baby, you s hould ideally stop work completely toward the end of pregnancy. T ry these soothing ways to de-stress at home and at work. • Sit on your heels, knees wide open, and place pillow s beneath your knees and feet and under your buttocks . Pile up large cushions or a beanbag or birth ball in front of you, then recline forward onto them, adjusting the support until you feel comfortable. • Elevate your feet when sitting to lessen the chance of developing varicose veins and swollen ankles.
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HEALTH REPORT
W hat is vitamin it? Nutritional scientist Dr Christopher Speed reports. Vitamin K is, in fact, a group of fat-soluble vitamins, with the two most important being vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) and K2 (menaquinone). Vitamin K1 is needed to form thrombin, a blood-clotting chemical, while K2 is essential for building and maintaining strong bones, and avoiding calcium deposits in the arteries. Research suggests that vitamin K2 plays a role in cardiovascular, brain, skin and prostate health. Quite frankly, everyone does. Generally speaking, the typical Western diet contains insufficient amounts of vitamin K2 to adequately activate MGP, which means about 30 per cent of vitamin K2- activated proteins remain inactive in the body. Supplementation with vitamin K2 is therefore the optimal solution. To achieve long-term preservation of cardiovascular Kudos for K2 K2? And are you getting enough of How does it work? Vitamin K2 activates inert proteins in the body, such as Matrix GLA Protein (MGP) and osteocalcin; this action in turn preserves the healthy structure and function of the cardiovascular system as well as increasing bone density and strength. A three-year research study has shown that a daily dose of 180 mcg of vitamin K2, in the form of menaquinone-7 (MK-7), improved bone mineral density and strength and arterial flexibility in post-menopausal women. What are the best sources? Good sources of vitamin K include yoghurt (live), alfalfa, egg yolks, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, leafy green vegetables, green tea, kelp, wholegrains, liver, tomatoes and fish liver oil. The traditional Japanese dish natto (fermented soy beans) is the richest known source of natural vitamin K2 as MK-7. Fermented foods like mature cheeses and curd also supply vitamin K2, but only at relatively low levels. Who needs vitamin K2?
Supports cardiovascular system health Helps reduce free radical damage to body cells Anti-inflammatory Helps support healthy cholesterol Tocotrienols derived from Annatto seeds (Bixa orellano). Vegan. Does not contain palm oil, dairy, gluten, lactose, nuts, or soy. 1 Study supported by National Institute of Health (CA 47597) and the Palm Oil Research Institute of Malaysia (PORIM). Serbinova E, et al. Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 1991:10(5); 263-75. Always read the label. Follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.
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and bone health, I would recommend the therapeutic dose used in the clinical trials mentioned earlier, which is 180 mcg a day. I would also recommend MenaQ7 ® vitamin K2 as MK-7, supplied by NattoPharma ASA; this company is a world leader in vitamin K2 research. It is MenaQ7 ® which has been used in most of the
studies demonstrating the benefits of vitamin K2. Are there any contraindications?
It is recommended that patients on warfarin or other blood thinners consult with their doctor before taking a vitamin K2 supplement. For more information on vitamin K2, visit www.vitamink2.org Dr Chris Speed is a dietitian who continues his academic work as an Associate Editor of the European Journal of Cancer Prevention. He is also Communications Director of Nattopharma.
Bone health & vitamin K2
While we have all heard the messages about building bones by getting plenty of sunshine (best free source of vitamin D) and eating calcium-rich foods or taking a supplement, an astonishing 6.3 million Australians still suffer from low bone density - and 1.2 million of them will also develop osteoporosis, where bones become fragile and easy to fracture. Why? Studies suggest that the missing link may be vitamin K2: while we still need calcium, vitamin D and exercise for the formation of strong bones, it appears that vitamin K2 is the catalyst that helps the bones to absorb these critical nutrients in the correct way. The body needs to ensure that calcium is directed to and utilised by the bones, and does not go to other areas where it may cause health problems. For example, too much calcium can build up around the arteries, blood vessel walls and soft tissue, causing hardening, or in the kidneys, resulting in kidney stones. Vitamin K2, however, has been shown to prevent calcium- associated health risks like arterial calcification by up to 50 per cent, while still preventing osteoporosis.
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The benefits of vitamin E
A re you taking the discusses the power of annatto tocotrienol, the 21st century vitamin E. Vitamin E’s benefits stem from its ability to act as a powerful protectant against free radicals. As it is fat-soluble, it can penetrate cellular membranes and readily react with harmful oxidising agents. Found in a variety of foods, vitamin E is common to many fatty plant sources, including wheatgerm oil, almond oil, grapeseed oil, and canola oil. right type of vitamin E? Dr Barrie Tan Although the benefits of vitamin E have been well documented over the last century, research efforts have focused
How do they work? Tocotrienols protect each one of our 37 trillion cells from oxidation (the process in which a cell becomes unstable). Poor diet, smoking and stress are all examples of things that cause oxidation. Over 90 per cent of oxidation protection must come from either tocotrienols or tocopherols. Tocotrienols are the better choice, as they have been shown to provide 40-60 times more protection than tocopherols. Cataracts: People with the highest dietary intake of vitamin E have a lower risk of developing cataracts. Glucose control: Vitamin E improves glucose balance, and low intakes are linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Coronary heart disease: Vitamin E prevents circulating fats from oxidation, reduces platelet clumping, and has blood-thinning and anti- inflammatory effects. Brain function: By protecting brain cells from oxidation, high levels of vitamin E are strongly associated with better cognitive scores. Osteoarthritis: A study of people with osteoarthritis found that taking 400 mg of vitamin E for six weeks reduced pain and the need for painkillers.
primarily on one half of this antioxidant family: alpha-tocopherol. And, despite this vast field of research, newer studies show that alpha-tocopherol is not the most powerful form. Instead, the tocotrienol form expresses a more versatile reactivity, with improved benefits. As we age, it is important to supplement with annatto tocotrienol, because it is the best known protector of cellular health. Where are tocotrienols found? Tocotrienols, although less commonly consumed, are naturally found in rice bran, palm, and annatto. Tocotrienols from palm were first commercialised in 1992, followed by rice tocotrienols in 1996, and culminating in the 2002 development of the finest tocotrienol ingredient yet, sourced from annatto. The annatto plant (Bixa orellana) originates from the Amazon rainforest and has been used since ancient times. The British nicknamed it “the lipstick plant”, because of its use as a natural colourant. Today it is still used in the colouring of butter, cheeses, snacks, fruit fillings, and many other foods.
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HEALTH REPORT
The superior benefits of tocotrienols over tocopherols are supported by numerous studies which illustrate tocotrienols’ ability to reduce the risks associated with cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, bone injuries, and cancer - as well as promote skin health. Also, annatto-originated tocotrienols have a distinct advantage in lowering cholesterol and enhancing cellular health, without the interference of tocopherols. Are there any contradictions? A crucial concept to grasp when discussing vitamin E is the interference that occurs when we have too much alpha-tocopherol in our system. Alpha-tocopherol is unique because it has an alpha-TTP (alpha- tocopherol transfer protein), as well as the ability to protect LDL from oxidation. Think of the transfer protein as a ‘passport’ that allows alpha-tocopherol to gain admittance and enter the bloodstream. A typical Western diet provides all the alpha- tocopherol we need for it to do this job. The interference occurs when we have too much alpha-tocopherol in our system (for example, taking alpha-tocopherol as a supplement). Our passageways become filled
with these molecules that, because they have the right of way, impede tocotrienols from absorption and entry into the bloodstream. How much alpha-tocopherol is too much? In a healthy diet, it is expected we consume about 10-15 mg of tocopherols per day. Such amounts do not present any interference to tocotrienols. There are no other known contra- indications with tocotrienol outside of alpha-tocopherol. It is synergistic with vitamin C and mixes well with other lipid (fat) nutrients, such as carotenoids, fish oil and CoQ10. What is the best way to take tocotrienol? In order to obtain adequate lipid antioxidant protection, a normal healthy person should take 100-200 mg of tocotrienol per day. The recommended dose for a person with a mild chronic condition is 300-450 mg per day, and for a person with an advanced chronic condition, 450-600 mg per day. Clinical trials indicate that the highest dose taken safely for 24 months is 900 mg per day. Dr Barrie Tan is hailed as the world’s foremost expert on vitamin E. With a PhD in Chemistry/Biochemistry, Dr Tan is committed to the research and development of phytonutrients that reduce and slow chronic disorders.
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HEALTH REPORT
TheGreek island of great gut health (and how you can be like them)
O n his third trip to the small Greek island of Ikaria, Go Vita podcast host and CEO of The Wellness Couch podcast network, Marcus Pearce , had a conversation that blew his mind. In Ikaria, the Greek Blue Zone known as “the island where people forget to die,” poor gut health was not a problem. Why? Read on to find out . Is it just me or does it feel like almost everyone you speak to has a gut problem? From indigestion to food intolerances, skin problems to autoimmune conditions, poor gut health seems to be wreaking havoc with humanity. The CSIRO reports that 50 per cent of Australians experience unpleasant symptoms such as bloating, gas and constipation, and one in seven experience distressing symptoms. In America over 70 million people have a digestive disease of some kind. But whilst it’s almost at epidemic levels in the West, traditional cultures like the Greek island of Ikaria has no such epidemic. Each year my 100 Not Out co-host Damian Kristof and I take a small group of people to Ikaria. We stay in the village of Nas and our host is Thea Parikos, owner of Thea’s Inn & Restaurant. Thea hosted Blue Zones co-founder Dan Buettner and the National Geographic team whilst they did their research into Ikaria’s remarkable longevity and quality of life. Ikarians have an average life expectancy of 90 and
experience 80 per cent less dementia, 50 per cent less heart disease and 20 per cent less cancer than the west. “We don’t have a gut health problem on Ikaria,” remarks Parikos. “I know people who would prefer to avoid a certain bean because it sits heavy on their stomach, but not because there’s an allergy or a problem. As far as allergies go, I haven’t heard of any gluten allergies or any other food allergies in Ikaria.” Why is that? Here are three foundations of the Ikarian lifestyle that we know improve gut health. 1. Stress reduction Stress suppresses our digestion, particularly our absorption of nutrients, and a large part of our stressful lives is our busy-ness and tendency to rush. “Ikaria time does seem to flow differently,” according to Parikos. “(In the west) you have all these things to save you time but you don’t have enough time for anything! “For us time isn’t an enemy, it’s not a boss. It’s a guide.” The lesson here is not necessarily to slow down your pace of life or move to Ikaria (although it is an incredible place). Instead, prioritising activities that bring you calm is key. Whether it’s breathing, meditating, going for more walks, spending more time with friends and less time on social media and Netflix, the key is to have calming activities a part of your daily rhythm.
2. SLOW Diet and Lifestyle (including wine, bread, bone broth, fibre)
“We have a very healthy, balanced diet in Ikaria. We have a lot of veggies, a lot of fibre. I think we have
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a very healthy combination of food,” says Parikos. The Ikarian diet is the quintessential Mediterranean diet with a focus on SLOW foods - Seasonal, Local, Organic Wholefoods. Travellers don’t need to look for organic certification on their food because Ikarians don’t use anything prepacked. “We’re not big into pre-cooked foods,” Parikos says. “We figure, if it’s in a can then something has been done to it.” Just hours before last year’s local festival - known as a panygiri - we helped prepare the food. There was more than 160kg of potatoes to peel (Ikarians love hot chips), 400kg of goat to cook, 400 litres of wine to prepare and dozens of large Greek salads and tzatsiki to make. The gut- healing goat broth was served to patrons early to line the stomach so they could eat, drink and dance for longer. The locally made, preservative free red wine, complete with up to 11 strains of healthy gut flora, was consumed with a dash of water and only enjoyed in the company of friends. Ikarians frown upon drinking on an empty stomach, drinking alone or getting drunk, yet encourage the social lubricant and extra dancing skills that wine provides! Every single ingredient had been grown on the island. Many Ikarians have goats, nearly everyone grows their own grapes and each landowner grows their own food and gut-healing herbs. Furthermore, given their biodynamic farming methods, Ikarians have no use for microbiome-destroying pesticides, herbicides, fungicides or insecticides. Believe it or not, not even a fully blown supermarket exists on the island (there is very little multinational presence in Ikaria). 3. Gut-healing movement Regular exercise is proven to improve microbiome function (as little as 30 minutes per day), which the Ikarians get in spades. Not that they set their alarms for a 6am yoga or CrossFit class. There is not one piece of flat land in Ikaria, so hill walking is a staple lifestyle activity. Ikarians prefer to walk instead of drive, and if they’re not swimming in the crystal clear Aegean sea, hiking, or dancing with friends, they’re working hard tilling the soil or harvesting their sweet strawberries or juicy tomatoes. Marcus Pearce is director and CEO of The Wellness Couch - Australia’s #1 health and lifestyle podcast network with over 2 million annual downloads. He is the host of the Go Vita Podcast and the ageing well podcast, 100 Not Out. References on request.
100 Not Out Mediterranean Longevity Experience 2020
Trip 1: Sardinia August 19 – 28 Trip 2: Ikaria August 30 - September 8 Attendees can join one or both Experiences.
For more info and to apply go to www.100notout.com 3 spots remaining for each trip (max group size 16)
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HEALTH REPORT
Insomnia is a nightmare. But you’re not alone – it affects around 15 per cent of Australians. Try our ideas to get more shut-eye. get more z z z z s
WAKE UP AT THE SAME TIME Looking forward to a weekend sleep-in to recover from your accumulated lost sleep during the week? Research from the University of Colorado suggests that this isn’t a good idea. “The key message from this study is that weekend ‘catch-up’ sleep is not an effective countermeasure strategy to reverse sleep loss- induced disruptions of metabolism,’’ explains Dr Kenneth Wright, Jr. “The best way to recover from your ‘sleep debt’ is to go to bed earlier and then wake at your normal time.” Don’t eat two hours before bed According to Michael Crupain, co-author of What to Eat When , your circadian rhythm is set by the sun and you should eat in line with that. Put simply, you should eat when the sun is up and fast when it is not. Be cautious about taking any over-the-counter medications – some may contain caffeine, a stimulant. A drink may make you feel relaxed, but the effects soon wear off and you’re more likely to have to get up to use the bathroom. Check all labels Avoid alcohol
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GET ENOUGH MAGNESIUM Dr W. Davis ran medical studies which trialled the use of magnesium chloride on 200 patients.
The results were that sleep was induced rapidly and this sleep was uninterrupted; daytime fatigue also disappeared. An unexpected bonus was that anxiety and stress were both reduced. Magnesium relaxes our muscles and nervous system, helping us to wind down. Magnesium also lowers cortisol, the ‘stress hormone’ that keeps us up at night, and raises levels of melatonin, our ‘body clock’ regulator. Try topical applications of magnesium. Stay cool
Your core body temperature has a lot to do with your quality of sleep. When you fall asleep, your body temperature drops to conserve energy. However, if you are in a too-hot bedroom your body will struggle to reach and maintain the optimal temperature for sleep, resulting in poor sleep quality. According to The Sleep Council, the ideal temperature for sleep is 16-18°C: “Hot, cold and drafty rooms can seriously impact your sleep. Your body heat peaks in the evening and then drops to its lowest levels when you’re asleep, so a cool 16-18°C is thought to be an ideal temperature in a bedroom. Temperatures over 24°C are likely to cause restlessness, while a cold room of about 12°C will make it difficult to drop off.”
HEALTH REPORT
What’s making you STRESSED? GENERAL ADAPTATION SYNDROME
W e all experience stress from time- to-time, so here we explain why it occurs. The word ‘stress’ is used so frequently that we all have a general awareness of what it means, but to really understand how it occurs and what you can do about it, it’s worth digging into it a little more deeply. What is stress anyway? At a physiological level, it’s generally accepted that the stress response is the body’s way of reacting to threats. It’s an interaction between yourself and the situations and environments you find yourself in, and tends to arise whenever you feel unsafe or that you lack the resources to enable you to cope with whatever you’re facing. The sequence of events that occurs is sometimes explained using a model called the General Adaptation Syndrome, which is based on the theory that one of the body’s goals is to maintain a state of homeostasis (balance). Although every individual’s reactions to stress is different (and may change according to circumstances), in simplified terms, it can be summed up in these stages:
General adaptation syndrome
You’re travelling along nicely, in a normal state of balance (homeostasis) Something stressful occurs, triggering a state of alarm, accompanied by a temporary decline in physical and mental function Quickly afterwards, you move into stress resistance, in which your body aims to operate at peak efficiency in order to deal with the crisis. This is the fight-or-flight response: a time when you become alert, energised and ready for action, physically and mentally
Stage 2 Resistance
Stage 3 Exhaustion
Homeostasis (Normal balance)
Stage 1 Alarm stage
Time
However, peak efficiency can only be sustained for so long before your reserves become depleted and you enter the overload or exhaustion phase of the stress response. This is when you need to rest, recover and replenish your capacity to fight another day.
Healthy adaptation to stress
HEALTHY ADAPTATION TO STRESS
How we adapt to cope with stress: When it occurs in short, sharp bursts, stress adaptation is designed to help make you increasingly capable of coping with stress over time. An example of a healthy adaptation to stress occurs when you embark on a fitness regime in which you repeatedly put your body under stress, take time to recover afterwards, and gradually increase your aerobic capacity or muscular fitness.
Positive adaptation
Stress (e.g. exercise)
Time
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Unhealthy adaptation to stress
UNHEALTHY ADAPTATION TO STRESS
However if you don’t fully recover from the resistance phase of the stress response because you don’t get enough rest, don’t have the personal skills to cope with stress appropriately, or are overloaded by repeated or chronic (ongoing) stressful episodes, your ability to respond to stress in a healthy way may become compromised.
Magnesium and stress
Negative adaptation
In the body, magnesium is involved with several stress pathways. During acute stress, it helps reduce the adverse effects of stress. However, its levels may decline when stress becomes chronic because it’s excreted from the body via the urine in greater quantities during stressful times 2 . If you’re under pressure, consider taking a magnesium supplement, ideally choosing a formula containing magnesium in a highly bioavailable form (such as magnesium glycinate), accompanied by B-group vitamins - especially vitamin B5, which helps maintain healthy stress responses in the body.
Stress (e.g. overwork)
In that situation, instead of returning to its natural, healthy state of homeostasis, the exhaustion phase of the stress response may persist, and over time, may reduce your ability to adapt to stress and ultimately impact on your general wellbeing. Time
Rest and recovery are vital Once you become aware of the importance of the recovery phase of the stress response, it’s easy to understand why the first step to managing and bouncing back from stress is to make sure you’re getting enough rest. Wherever possible, avoid continuing to push yourself after a stressful time, and instead give yourself permission to rest and restore your energy so you can rebuild your physical and emotional resilience. Herbs traditionally used to improve stress adaptation in Ayurvedic medicine InAyurvedicmedicine, holybasil (alsoknown as sacred basil or tulsi) and ashwagandha (also known as withania) are traditionally taken to improve stress adaptation – in other words, to build resistance to stress. In clinical research, a specific holy
basil extract was shown to help manage symptoms of stress and mild anxiety such as fatigue, disturbed sleep and cognitive impairment (including forgetfulness) 1 . Meanwhile, ashwagandha is traditionally used to reduce symptoms of stress and worry in Ayurvedic medicine, including mild anxiety, tension, fatigue, nervousness, restlessness, irritability and brain fog (cognitive impairment). Calming the mind and spirit with traditional Chinese medicine InChinesemedicine, polygala is traditionally used to calm the mind and spirit and relieve stress-related symptoms including mild anxiety, sleep disturbance, mild palpitations and forgetfulness. References: 1.Saxena, RC et al. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med, 2012;2012894509. [Financial sponsor: Natural Remedies]. 2. Cuciureanu, MD, and Vink, R. (2011) Magnesium and stress. In Magnesium in the Central Nervous System, (Eds, Vink, R. & Nechifor, M.) University of Adelaide Press, Adelaide (AU).
Giselle’s integrative approach G iselle Cooke , a medically-trained holistic health consultant, utili approach to managing stress conditions. This inclu herbs and a highly nutritious, unprocessed diet wit h a variety of fruit, vegetables and protein sources. Superfoods like maca, spirulina, p omegranate and berries along with a predominantly organic diet will optimise your body ’s nutrient stores, helping to replenish and repair stress-affected tissues and organs. Also useful are krill, oily fish and flaxseed as these contain essential fatty acids that help to b uffer your nervous system against the impact of stress, preventing chronic anxiety states and reducing phobias. A comprehensive diet high in B-complex vitamins and cofactors suc h as choline, the minerals potassium and magnesium, and the amino acids lysine and glutam ine, will also help to balance your nervous system. Consider taking a good stress nutritional s upplement, which includes high levels of B-vitamins, in particular a blend of nicotinamide an d nicotinic acid (B3), as well as calcium pantothenate (B5) and pyridoxine hydrochloride (B 6) that are required for cortisol metabolism. ses an integrative des relaxation therapies, calming
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reaction
W ithout digestive enzymes, your body cannot break down food properly, which can trigger a range of digestive disorders. “When I was younger, I could eat whatever I liked; but these days, all I get is indigestion or wind – or both!” Does this sound like you? And why does it happen? Research shows that the body’s production of digestive enzymes declines substantially from the age of 27 onwards, which explains the unpleasant digestive symptoms. However, it’s not just gut health that is compromised – impaired digestive function will also impact the body’s immune, nervous and hormonal systems. Strengthen immunity The greater the reserves of digestive enzymes in your body, the stronger your immune system will be. Enzyme activity is needed not only during digestion, but in relation to all increases in metabolic activity, including fighting acute and chronic illness. Support heart health The digestive enzyme lipase helps to control the release of cholesterol and triglycerides, which in turn has a protective effect against some forms of heart disease, such as atherosclerosis. Boost brain power The body’s red blood cells transport oxygen,
along with glucose from the liver, to the hypothalamus; this is the part of the brain that directs the endocrine system, which is responsible for the body’s water balance, temperature and appetite. If the endocrine and digestive systems are impaired, we feel fatigued and cannot think clearly. Cleanse the colon Food that is not digested properly remains in the colon – undigested protein putrefies, carbohydrates ferment and fats turn rancid. Digestive enzymes ensure that food is properly broken down and the colon is therefore kept free from this potentially toxic waste. Sleep soundly
Some researchers estimate that up to 70 per cent of illness starts with poor colon function.
An undernourished endocrine system can trigger hormonal imbalances, which upset the nervous system and sleep patterns. Digestive enzymes, on the other hand, keep the endocrine and nervous systems in balance so the body can
restore and renew itself during sleep. Promote weight loss Beingoverweight isoftendue toametabolic imbalance caused by a malfunctioning endocrine system. Digestive enzymes support endocrine, digestive and bowel function and help to correct nutritional deficiencies; in particular, the enzyme lipase breaks down fats properly so they
are not stored in the body. Improve skin health
Enzymes also fight the ageing process by increasing blood supply to the skin, supplying it with vital nutrients and flushing out waste products that give skin a dull appearance. The body’s circulation slows with age, and consuming enzymes helps to counter this.
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L I VE WEL L
Green initiative At Go Vita, we love to champion brands that are making a difference and supporting a sustainable future .
Making Scents Proudly Australian-made and owned, vegan and cruelty-free, Evodia natural fragrances are created from the highest quality natural ingredients and wild-harvested Australian native botanicals which have been formulated with Australia’s top fragrance houses, resulting in unique, sophisticated and wearable blends. All products are free from parabens, sulphates and petrochemicals. There are four ranges: Beach: With a fresh and sunny feel, this has tones of mandarin, marine accord and sandalwood. Outback: Warm, earthy and sensual, this has hints of patchouli along with amber and bergamot. Rainforest: Crisp, lush and woody, with cedarwood and lily of the valley.
Environmental challenges can seem overwhelming – where on earth do we start to protect our unique and beautiful landscape? According to Evodia Australia, creators of high quality, all-natural fragrances, the answer is: in our own backyard. The Grassroots Tree Plant Project Evodia take great pride in giving back to the community and protecting our environment. This led to the company setting up The Evodia Grassroots Conservation Fund, to support local environmental conservation projects that create real and meaningful impact. Every purchase of an Evodia product goes towards supporting this fund. The most recent example? The exciting Grassroots Tree Plant Project. From March to June 2020, Go Vita is
exclusively supporting Evodia Australia and The Evodia Grassroots Conservation Fund by participating in the Grassroots Tree Plant Project . In practical terms, this means that for every Evodia product sold in Go Vita stores, one tree will be planted on behalf of the buyer. Plus, Go Vita stores will match every tree planted by planting a second tree - so that will be two trees planted for every product sold! This project will have an ongoing positive effect on our environment, providing shelter to wildlife and reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide and storing carbon in the trees’ leaves, branches and roots for generations. Go Vita staff members will also join Evodia Australia to plant the trees from July 2020. Learn more about Evodia’s environmental projects at www.evodia.com.au/giving-back
Garden: Floral and bright, this showcases rose, patchouli and pomelo.
Evodia’s latest new products are their Fragrance Roll-On, Fragrance Mist and Hand Cream. Evodia Australia products invite you to experience the beauty of Australia within your home and during every day, with products suitable for home and travel. www.evodia.com.au
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PIONEERS OF SPIRULINA SINCE 1980
FishOil
Y ou may think that fat is bad for you, but the type of fat found in fish oil is one that you should eat more of. The omega-3 fatty acids found in oily fish (such as salmon, mackerel and sardines) as well as nuts and seeds play a key role in a range of vital body processes, from regulating blood pressure and blood clotting to reducing inflammation and improving immune and digestive function. Here are 12 benefits of this multi-tasking nutrient that you need to know. 1 Acne: Fish oil supplements can help reduce the inflammation that may be associated with acne. This inflammation may be linked to excessive amounts of omega-6 fatty acids (found in vegetable oils), accompanied by a lack of omega-3 fatty acids.
3 Arthritis and joint problems: Studies indicate that people with rheumatoid arthritis experience less joint pain and stiffness when they take fish oil supplements, and may even be able to manage on lower doses of anti- inflammatory drugs. The Royal Adelaide Hospital Early Arthritis Clinic, established in 1998, prescribes fish oil to rheumatoid arthritis patients as part of their standard treatment. 4 Asthma: Asthma may be related to, and worsened by, an imbalance of fatty acids in the diet; in particular, a lack of omega-3 fats may promote inflammation of the airways and aggravate wheezing. 5 Benign prostatic hypertrophy: Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil seem to play an important role in maintaining the health of the prostate gland. Research suggests they may even improve the symptoms of prostate enlargement. 6 Crohn’s disease: In a year-long study of people suffering from this condition (a painful type of inflammatory bowel disease), 69 percent of those taking fish oil supplements stayed symptom-free. 7 Eczema: Essential fatty acids are needed for keeping the skin healthy; in addition, some research indicates that people with eczema may not process these acids
Why Lifestream Spirulina Balance: • Is a concentrated, nutrient-rich, ancient superfood grown away from pollution in pure mineral-rich water • Provides a powerful combination of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and antioxidants to support optimal wellbeing • Provides iron which can assist in reducing tiredness and fatigue • Provides a natural source of iron • Is naturally bioavailable and is non GMO
Some evidence suggests that people with acne are often deficient in omega-3 essential fatty acids. 2 ADHD: Essential fatty acids play an important role in the function of the brain. Possibly
the most important in this respect are two omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are found in oily fish.
www.lifestream.co.nz lifestreamwholefoods
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LIFE0101
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