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It seems like every day we hear about another scientific study touting how the microbiome in your gut can affect your overall health. Your gut’s microbiome consists of trillions of bacteria living in your intestines. Good gut bacteria help you digest food, produce essential nutrients (vitamin K), and maintain a healthy immune system. Bad gut bacteria can overrun the good bacteria, cause imbalances, and lead to runaway inflammation, poor immune health, and even cognitive issues. In short:  eat more prebiotics, probiotics, phenols, fiber, and fermented foods and avoid sugary foods, artificial sweeteners, red meat, processed foods, and alcohol. Ready to...

Ashwagandha is gaining recognition worldwide for its spectrum of health benefits. Health food stores and supplement manufacturers harnessing the benefits of ashwagandha in their products, so the sooner we get to know this herb, the better.   What is ashwagandha? Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is the main herb used in Ayurveda, the traditional system of medicine on the Indian subcontinent. Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb meaning it helps the body adapt for challenging conditions. The herb has significant psychological (reduction in stress & improved cognitive abilities) and physiological (Improved athletic performance & sleep quality) benefits. Pharmacopeia publications in America, Britain, Canada,...

What is spirulina? Arthrospira platensis (the type of Spirulina we consume) is a type of cyanobacteria AKA blue-green algae. Cyanobacteria are nutrient rich single celled bacteria and are the true engines of photosynthesis, powering this ability even within green plants! Spirulina grows in both saltwater and freshwater and is cultivated for use as a dietary supplement as well as whole food. What nutrients are in spirulina? Per single serving, many nutritionists consider spirulina to be one of the most nutrient-dense substances on earth. One tablespoon (7 grams) of spirulina contains: 4 grams of protein (4% of daily value) 11% of...

Sceletium tortuosum, AKA Kanna, is a common succulent plant in South Africa that has traditionally been used to alleviate stress, depression, pain, and hunger in humans. Origins In native South African, kanna literally means “something to chew.”Hunter-gatherers have used it as a mood-altering substance since prehistoric times. The first European to note kanna’s use was Dutchman Jan van Riebeeck in 1662.Swedish botanist Carl Peter Thunberg made further reports on the use and trade of the plant among indigenous people of South Africa in 1772, more than 100 years later. Another 100 years passed and Karl Wilhelm Pappe, a German physician...

We want you to get the most out of life and be as healthy as possible while looking your best. Did you know you can help your skin look younger from the inside as well as from the outside? Beyond relying on skin toners and creams to hide the signs of aging, certain supplements and foods can make your skin look and feel younger by fighting the aging process. Antioxidants, those good things you hear about all the time, neutralize free radicals that accelerate the aging process. Let’s look into how free radicals and antioxidants can do this. What are...