Joanna in our Kingston store loves the Revive Active Joint Complex. She says: “For the last 2 years I have suffered from lack of mobility in my knees and hips. I often had a very bad pain in the joints after just lying down or exercising. 4 months ago I decided to take care of my joints internally although I thought that my healthy diet was enough. I decided to try Review Active Joint Complex because I have heard that the active ingredients which we can find in this product are scientifically proven to restore damaged joints.
The key active components are: Marine Collagen, Glucosamine, Hyaluronic Acid and MSM.
That was enough for me to understand that this should help me! One month supply of R A Joint Complex turned my flexibility back to normal and being left without pain and stiffness is an amazing feeling. What’s more – my problematic skin condition has also improved.”
Revive Active Joint Complex contains the following ingredients:
Collagen – building blocks of bone, cartilage, tendons, ligaments and skin.
MSM – anti-inflammatory
Glucosamine – cartilage and collagen repair
Hyaluronic Acid – lubricant and shock absorber
Copper – maintenance of normal connective tissues
Vitamin D3 – stimulates the absorption of calcium
Vitamin C – normal collagen formation
Boron – cartilage growth
Living culture symbiotics offers a more natural wholefood option than standard probiotics in providing full spectrum support for your natural digestive flora. Most of us are used to taking large doses of individual strains of microflora such as Acidophilus lactobacillus but Living nutrition’s support goes further. The Your Flora Symbiotic range involves all the nutrients and factors involved in seeding, colonising and thriving within a complex and dynamic ecosystem that is your gut.
You are unique, so is your flora
We each have our own unique and dynamic eco-system within our digestive tract, rich in a vast and diverse array of microorganisms. This ecosystem influences both your physical and emotional health and is essential for optimal digestion. Living Nutrition recognise the need to support your individual flora and the complex requirements of a balanced, healthy ecosystem.
The symbiotic approach
Symbiosis – the intimate relationship of different organisms living and evolving in harmony, within an ecosystem for the benefit of each other.
Kefi-soya™ – the living culture symbiotic
Living Nutrition have developed an exceptional whole-food living culture symbiotic using a traditional month long kefir style fermentation.
Kefi-soya™ is a selection of 35 microorganisms fermented in organic soymilk. This fermented living culture provides a synergy of healthy microorganisms within their natural ecosystem.
Kefi-soya™ is so more than a capsule of bacteria. It is a living food matrix rich in nutrients, enzymes and naturally evolved microorganisms.
Fermented soymilk – the symbiotic of our ancestors
Research has proven that fermented soya milk is by far the best source of nutrition for supporting the gut flora. Recently soya has a mixed reputation, but this is due to how it is processed and consumed. Soya in its fermented forms such as miso, tempeh and natto are highly nutritious and extremely beneficial for the gut ecology.
Your Flora’s 6 New Synbiotics include:
Your Flora Coolmint
Kefi-soya™ plus organic peppermint and lemon balm – Suitable for those with digestive sensitivity, including IBS.
Your Flora – Family
Kefi-soya™ plus organic banana and baobab – Suitable for the whole family as an ongoing support for the digestive microflora
Your Flora – Gold Spice
Kefi-soya™ plus organic ginger and lemon balm- Suitable for those with digestive inflammation, including colitis and Crohn’s disease.
Your Flora – Regenesis
Kefi-soya™ plus organic artichoke and chicory – Suitable for the repopulation of the digestive microflora, including post antibiotics and post infection.
Your Flora – Terrain
Kefi-soya™ plus organic aloe vera and slippery elm – Suitable for those with digestive conditions including ulcers, excess acidity, constipation and diarrhoea.
Your Flora – Tranquil
Kefi-soya™ plus organic fennel and chamomile – Suitable for those suffering from bloating and flatulence.
Varicose veins are enlarged or swollen veins, visible through the skin as blue or purple swellings. Although they may be found anywhere in the body, varicose veins are most common in the calves and thighs. They may also have a bulging, lumpy or twisted appearance. The thickened or swollen parts of veins are known by doctors as varicosities. The word ‘varicose’ comes from Latin and means ‘dilated’ or ‘larger’.
This happens when veins lose their elasticity, become stretched or swollen. This leads to leakage of valves found inside veins, responsible for regulating the normal flow of blood towards the heart.
Who develops varicose veins?
Some people are more prone to the condition than others. Those who spend much of their day sitting, and in particular standing, are more likely to develop the condition. In addition, varicose veins can run in families, especially in the female line.
It is said that over 3 in 10 adults will develop varicosities at some point in their lives. Other estimates are even higher, suggesting that 40% of men and 32% of women aged 18 to 64 years suffer from varicose veins.
The most common cause of varicose veins in young women is pregnancy. It is thought that about 40% of pregnant women experience this, although these usually disappear after birth of the child.
What are the symptoms?
A feeling of aching, heaviness or tiredness may develop in the calves or thighs. Other symptoms of varicose veins include swollen ankles, burning sensation in the legs, muscle cramp or itching of the skin.
The symptoms of varicose veins vary from person to person. Usually the first signs are that affected veins becoming more noticeable through the skin. With time, they appear swollen, and may become itchy or slightly tender to touch.
Although the symptoms of varicose veins are unsightly and irritating, the condition tends not to be serious. However, serious complications can develop and these include varicose eczema, skin ulcers, thrombosis (abnormal clotting) and bleeding. If this is the case, you should seek medical attention.
Varicose veins in other parts of the body
Although varicose veins are most commonly found in the legs, they may appear elsewhere in the body.
Haemorrhoids (or piles) are varicose veins in the anus and rectum – the lowest part of the digestive tract where faeces leave. Although not often serious, they can be very painful. You may notice streaks of blood as you try to pass stool
Pregnant women may notice varicose veins in their legs but sometimes, varicose veins in the vulva or vagina, as the baby puts pressure on the pelvic region, restricting blood flow
They may also be found in the oesophagus(or gullet), the tube which connects your mouth to your stomach. This is known as liver cirrhosis and is usually caused by scarring in the liver resulting from hepatitis infection or excessive alcohol consumption
Up to 1 in 7 men develop varicose veins in the scrotum or testicles. They are not usually problematic and you may not notice any symptoms.
Prevention or treatment?
There are many measures you can take to help prevent varicose veins from developing or worsening. Most of these involve improving your circulation with regular exercise and eating healthily.
Treatment of varicose veins include conventional methods such as pressure stockings, lasers or, in severe cases, surgery. Additionally, many people find relief from using herbal remedies, in particular Horse Chestnut seed extracts, available in tablet form, or as a gel.
Should I go to the doctor?
A symptom of varicose veins you may experience is itchiness around the swollen vein. This occurs because blood leaks from the swollen vein, irritating surrounding tissues. If your varicose veins itch, you are more likely to develop complications. Many of these can, and should be treated, so it is worth making an appointment with your doctor.
The diagnosis is often clear as they are usually visible under the skin. However, there may be certain circumstances where you experience some of the symptoms of varicose veins, but are not sure if you have the problem. As with any unexplained symptoms, you should seek the advice of your doctor.
In addition, speak to your doctor if:
You have severe pain, discomfort or swelling in your legs
The skin over the vein becomes painful or irritated
You develop an ulcer (break in the skin)
Your varicose vein bleeds.
Supplements
Horse Chestnut
A.Vogel insist that only freshly picked horse chestnut seeds are used to make Venaforce®. This ensures that the extract obtained contains the active ingredients that help with the symptoms of varicose veins.
Venaforce® and Venagel® Remedies
Horse chestnut is probably the most popular herb used for treatment. It is the seeds of the horse chestnut tree which are used medicinally – and these are the same seeds gathered each autumn for the game of conkers. Venaforce is a traditional herbal medicinal product for the relief of symptoms associated with chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins, such as tired, heavy legs, pain, cramps and swelling, exclusively based upon long-standing use as a traditional remedy
Venagel contains the extract of fresh Horse chestnut extracts and when used in gels is soothing, providing cooling relief to legs that feel weary, heavy and uncomfortable – fantastic after a night out or a day’s shopping. It is also useful for long journeys (especially by plane), during hot weather and can be used during pregnancy.
Mourad in our Kingston store has chosen Higher Nature Keep Sharp as his current favourite.
These tasty orange and lemon flavour jellies are formulated to nourish and support your brain. Containing emulsified omega 3 fish oil packed with DHA and containing slightly more than the recommended daily intake of at least 250mg of DHA. They also contain choline, CoQ10, zinc and B vitamins. The jelly like chews are easy to take and more readily absorbed by the body than tablets, and are an ideal choice if you are concerned about your brain as you age.
The nutrients include:
Zinc which contributes to normal cognitive function
DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function
Choline is a component of the neurotransmitter (a chemical released by nerve cells to send signals to other cells) acetyl choline
Coenzyme Q10, produced by all the cells in the body but its production diminishes with age but is essential for energy production in the brain
Vitamins including Niacin, B6, B12 and Biotin known to help balance homocysteine levels.
The Jellies have also been sweetened using tooth friendly xylitol.
For more information pop into one of our stores and chat to one of our knowledgeable product advisers.
Comvita is a much loved brand in health stores, and this product is no exception. Our Watford store manager, Oana, loves Comvita Olive Leaf Extract capsules. She says: “Olive leaf has been traditionally used to support a healthy immune system and is gaining a widespread reputation for it’s year-round benefits. Comvita’s new formulation of the capsules contains 66mg of Oleuropein, as well as Zinc and Copper for added immune support. You only need to take one a day to help keep the doctor away!”
Comvita uses fresh-picked Olive leaf that is grown, harvested and extracted fresh on the farm in Queensland, Australia. This fresh leaf extraction system ensures high levels of Oleuropein plus at least 11 other naturally occurring polyphenols and the only brand to do this.
Polyphenols are compounds found in natural plant food sources and have antioxidant properties. Polyphenols play an important role in maintaining your health and wellness as they help protect the cells in your body from free radical damage.
Many people are quickly realising that Comvita Olive Leaf Extract Immune Support Capsules is a supplement with a wide range of benefits suitable for the whole family. While some people are using it throughout winter, many more are finding it improves well being all year round.
More than a multi and more than just greens, Good Green Stuff is a complex multi-nutrient formula that helps make it simple to be and stay healthy. Based on the latest scientific research and formulated for maximum vitality.
Over 75 ingredients
Good Green Stuff is a blend of carefully selected fruits, vegetables and herbs – with added vitamins, minerals, friendly bacteria, plant foods and extracts and other essential nutrients.The ultimate superfood with the very best ingredients for optimum health.
Quality without compromise
Independently formulated by a team of global health experts. The form of every ingredient specifically selected for optimum performance. Regularly reviewed, and blended in world-class facilities in Belgium. Every batch is tested before release
Food For Thought
Nutrients to feed the mind and help you cope when the going gets tough as well as being packed with nutrients that help you battle fatigue and keep your psychological function in tip top condition.
Easy to Digest and Supports Your Gut and Immunity
Easier to digest than tablets or capsules and made from a base of real plant foods. Every form of vitamin and mineral has been carefully chosen for the best absorption and utilisation profile. Packed full of soluble fibre, friendly bacteria and digestive enzymes, yet gentle on the stomach. Good Green Stuff contains a wide range of ingredients that promote gut health, encourage a healthy inflammatory response, protect cells from oxidative stress and support your immune system
For those aspiring to vitality, body balance and healthy weight
A food-form, plant extract, gut friendly, synergistic food supplement to put a spring in your step. Two forms of Co Q10 and ideal ratios of B-Vitamins for energy-yielding metabolism, psychological, nervous system and immune function, along with countless other nutrients and phytonutrients to make you glow from the inside out. Good Green Stuff helps you look and feel your best every day!
Quick, Tasty, Convenient
Takes the strain out of good nutrition in one easy daily serve. No supplement can replace a healthy diet, but few get the chance to consume a balanced and varied diet every day. Good Green Stuff helps you fill the nutritional gaps. Think of it as your nutritional insurance policy.
No Bad Stuff
Allergen-Free – All of the good stuff, with none of the bad
Free from all common allergens:
No Gluten
No Dairy
No Eggs
No Nuts
No Soy
No Corn.
No GMO
No Nasty Chemicals
No Artificial Preservatives
Just 10 grams of concentrated, real-food ingredients
The menopause gets rather a rough press in our society as we don’t usually value age and experience the way they do in less Westernised cultures.
There are many things you can do for your health to ensure that the menopause is embraced rather than dreaded. Why not try a few of the health tips below to help you through the menopause and into the next phase of your life.
Food and drink
There are some dietary changes you can make to help you through the menopause:
Drink at least 1.5 litres of still plain water daily
Cut out coffee and take a maximum of 2 cups of tea daily (why not try Bambu – a coffee alternative)
Make sure your bowels move regularly
Eat regularly as skipping meals will not help with trying to maintain a healthy weight
Reduce refined carbohydrates – white sugar, white bread, white pasta, white rice and things covered in heaps of syrup
Eat more phyto-oestrogenic foods such as broccoli, oats & soya
Eat more non-dairy, calcium containing foods such as brown rice, salmon and pumpkin seeds
Exercise
Walk for 20 minutes every other night – 10 minutes outbound and 10 minutes home. This helps trigger the production of happy chemicals called endorphins in your body
Get a mini trampoline (rebounder). You can use it in front of the television so that you don’t get bored
Get some mini weights and use them gently whilst watching the ‘soaps’
Sleep
Being able to sleep well is easier if your digestion is working properly, so observe the suggestions for eating and drinking above. If you habitually wake at about 3am, you may find that improving your digestion has a very good knock-on effect on your sleep pattern
Spend some time relaxing before you go to bed so that your mind stops buzzing
Write down things that are on your mind and a list of things you need to do the next day before you go to bed so that you do not have everything revolving round in your mind as you try to go to sleep
Avoid all caffeine, not just in the evening but during the day as well. Try to stay away from situations that will cause anxiety. Use calming herb teas such as lemon balm and chamomile to help relax your mind, or use a herbal remedy containing valerian, such as A. VogelDormeasan®Valerian-Hops drops to help you re-establish a good sleeping pattern.
Stress
Take time out for yourself
Eat regularly, as skipping meals or eating on the run creates more stress
Avoid caffeine
Practice breathing techniques, or take up yoga or another gentle, meditative exercise that promotes deep relaxation
If you need further help, you might like to consider using a herbal remedy such as A.Vogel Stress Relief Daytime
Low Mood/Tearfulness
Exercise is very good for both body and mind as it releases natural chemicals in the body that make us feel happy.
Write it down – it is best not to bottle your feelings up. Talk to those around you but if you find this difficult, even writing your problems down in a journal can help release your feelings. Better out than in as they say.
While drinking in moderation is acceptable, it is best to try and avoid alcohol. Water is the best drink to hydrate the brain!
Change things in your surroundings. The brain can easily form repetitive patterns making it hard to change your emotions, so try doing something new when you feel low and you might surprise yourself and others. They do call it the change after all.
If you are looking for a herbal remedy for low mood, you might wish to consider A. Vogel Hyperiforce® St. John’s Wort tablets. This can however not be take if on any other medication.
Soy isoflavones for before, during & after the menopause
A.Vogel Menosan® Menopause Support can provide support to the body through all stages of the Menopause but is especially useful when broad range of symptoms such as hot flushes, irritability, tiredness, pains and aches, vaginal dryness etc kick in.
Made from fermented soya beans
Support for all stages of the menopause
Also contains magnesium and hibiscus
In this A.Vogel video, Eileen explains why good liver function is so important during the menopause and she recommends what you can do to support your liver.
This drink is an innovative collagen shot that uses advanced technology to deliver a unique combination of VERISOL®, a bioactive collagen peptide, vitamins B6, C & E, Zinc, Biotin and Copper. Designed for both men and women, this drink acts as a daily food supplement that supports the body’s own collagen formation to help slow down and combat the visible signs of ageing.
As we age, it’s the loss of this protein that makes skin lose its firmness, and is directly linked to the signs of ageing, with the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and a reduction in skin elasticity. Proto-col’s collagen shot, uses VERISOL® type I and III bovine collagen hydrolysate which is the closest match to human DNA and is the only source of collagen scientifically proven to repair and restore levels within the body.
VERISOL® works at a deeper level, as it systemically affects the collagen metabolism in the dermis, rather than just reaching the outer layers of skin like creams and topical products do. As it is orally consumed it influences the skin’s co metabolism directly from the inside, to increase the skin moisture and slow down the formation of wrinkles.
Approved by FSE (Food Supplements Europe) recognised by EFSA (European Food Standards Agency) VERISOL® studies have confirmed that VERISOL® addresses the main concern of both men and women with regards to ageing skin, elasticity and firmness as well as wrinkles. People taking products containing natural Bioactive Peptide VERISOL® have reported noticeably firmer and smoother skin with fewer wrinkles.
Ingredients include:
Hydrolysed collagen – collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. We provide the highest concentrate 5000mg per 50ml bottle.
Vitamin C – contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of cartilage and the normal function of skin.
Biotin – contributes to the maintenance of normal skin and necessary to maintain energy and general vitality.
Copper – contributes to maintenance of normal connective tissues and the normal function of the immune system.
Vitamin B6 – contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, the normal function of the immune system.
Zinc – contributes to the maintenance of normal hair.
Anda from our Edgware Store and Branka in Watford both love Solgar Hyaluronic Acid Complex.
Branka says:”Good nutrition is the foundation of beautiful skin and that’s why I always recommend Solgar Hyaluronic Acid Complex to our customers to help keep the skin looking soft, plump and supple.” Anda said that she noticed that since using it, her skin is looking a lot better.
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a substance found within almost all of the cells of the human body, most abundantly in skin and joints. It is thought that age-related loss of HA may be a contributing factor to wrinkling in ageing. In the skin, HA may help to retain optimal levels of water in the upper layers of skin.
In the joints, HA is found in the synovial fluid, which provides lubrication and acts as a shock absorber. Studies suggest a role for HA in joint health as it may offer pain relief to arthritis sufferers. Solgar’s Hyaluronic Acid Complex combines other natural supplements including Vitamin C, Collagen and Chondroitin to enhance its benefits.
Grazyna in our Kingston Store loves Biocare Magnesium Malate. She says: “It is a favourite of mine as Biocare have combined Magnesium with Malic Acid. Magnesium is vital for normal muscle function, maintenance of normal bones and teeth, normal function of the nervous system, energy production, it contributes to normal cell division and protein synthesis and many more bodily functions. The Biocare combination is unique. It’s particularly useful for sporty people and those who exercise more, or for those who suffer from muscle cramps or even fibromyalgia.”
“Malic acid is still unknown to many. Actually our body produces malic acid when converting carbohydrates into energy. It can be found also in fruits and vegetables, it’s what gives them a sour taste. Malic acid has its uses in cosmetics as it is a part of a family of fruit acids called alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA’s). It has ability to brighten the skin and smooths its texture, therefore, it has anti-ageing properties. In high doses it also contributes to collagen production. Malic acid can be very useful in acne treatment too so it’s not malicious at all. I am taking this complex for muscle cramps but it’s nice to know that it may make me younger too!”
