Posts

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes has become a worldwide health problem.

It is said that 890,000 Australians and 270,000 New Zealanders. Besides this, there are thousands of people with undiagnosed diabetes.

Previously, Type 2 diabetes was mainly seen in adults over 40 years of age, but, it is now more and more common in younger people.

High Blood Sugar Levels

Diabetes is a condition related to problems with blood sugar levels (also called blood glucose levels) and insulin levels. You need to be able to convert glucose (i.e. sugar) from your food into energy.

The hormone that is needed for glucose to enter into cells is called insulin. Once in the cells glucose can give us the energy we need. Diabetic patients have problems with their insulin production, so when a diabetic patient eats sugar (even hidden sugars e.g. from sweets, bread, cakes, biscuits, cereals) it cannot be converted into energy and stays in the blood, causing high blood glucose levels.

If you have high levels of glucose in your blood for long periods of time it can lead to blindness, kidney problems, cardiovascular issues, and many other health complications.

The good news is that diabetes is avoidable if you focus on having a healthy diet and exercising regularly.

To find out if you are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, you can yourself these questions:

• Are you overweight?
• Do you have a family history of diabetes?
• Does your daily diet contain high amounts of sugars and/or refined carbohydrates?
• Can you be more active?

Some early warning signs that may indicate your blood sugar levels could be a problem in the future include:

• Frequent sugar cravings
• 2 to 4 pm energy slump
• Constant fatigue
• Frequent urination and/or recurrent urinary tract infections.
• Trouble losing weight – especially weight around your waist.

If you answered ‘YES’ to any of these questions, or experience any of these early warning signs, speak to us today about how we can help you to prevent or manage diabetes.

Herbs and Nutrients Can Help

Natural Medicine may help with managing and preventing diabetes, by focusing on the main causes such as diet and lifestyle.

If you are at risk of developing diabetes the following herbs and nutrients may also assist.

• Cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia) – Cinnamon a common spice used in cooking, is also a beneficial herbal medicine used to maintain normal healthy blood sugar levels by enhancing the function of the insulin made by your body.
• Korean Ginseng (Panax ginseng) – Korean Ginseng is a herb that may help to balance your blood sugar levels and boost energy production at the same time.
• Caiapo root (Ipomoea batatas) – is a white sweet potato that is traditionally used in Japanese and Brazilian medicine for the maintenance of healthy blood sugar levels.
• Hops (Humulus lupus) and Acacia (Acacia arabica) – Together these herbs may help control blood sugar levels.
• Chromium – Chromium is an important mineral that can help to regulate blood sugar levels. Having a deficiency in chromium may contribute to blood sugar problems.

Speak to us today about which herbs and nutrients may be beneficial for you.

Diet and Lifestyle Tips

As well as taking some of the Natural Medicines mentioned here, you can reduce your risk of developing diabetes by also implementing some dietary and lifestyle changes.

• Maintain a healthy weight. If you would like to lose some weight, ask us about the professional weight management program we offer.
• Eat small, regular meals containing protein-rich foods such as fish, lean meat, legumes, nuts, and eggs to keep your blood sugar levels stable.
• Include plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds in your daily diet.
• Avoid eating too many overly processed and sugar-containing foods – especially high carbohydrate foods like bread, cakes, biscuits, and pastries. Save these foods for special occasions only.
• Limit alcohol consumption. Aim for a moderate intake of alcohol and have at least two alcohol-free days per week.
• Include regular exercise into your lifestyle for healthy weight maintenance.

Take Control of Your Health Now!

By making some simple changes to your diet and lifestyle, and by taking the appropriate supplements, you may be able to prevent diabetes or better manage your existing diabetes.

Talk to us today to make an appointment and start to feel the health benefits!

July 1, 2022/0 Comments/by Glenda Johnson

Digestion, Digestive, Digestive Health, Weight Loss

Beating Bali Belly: How to Get Your Gut Back on Track After Getting Sick on Holiday

How to Get Your Gut Back on Track After Getting Sick on Holiday

Coming back from a holiday with a sore gut as your souvenir is never fun.

Infections that cause traveller’s diarrhoea can lead to chronic digestive issues if you don’t repair the damage done.

Let me explain.

Traveller’s diarrhoea is simply a form of gastroenteritis (un-affectionately known as ‘gastro’), an intestinal infection that triggers inflammation and injury in your gut.

Like other forms of gastro, it causes symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhoea, fatigue and fever, which typically pass with the infection.

However, even in the weeks following the infection, the damage to your intestinal lining can interfere with your gut’s ability to create digestive juices (required to digest your food properly) and house healthy gut bacteria, which make up your gut microbiome (the beneficial bacteria that play an important role in gut health (discussed further here).

Together, the loss of these bugs and the injury to your gut may cause ongoing digestive discomfort, such as chronic bloating or changes to bowel habits.

If left untreated, in some people it may progress to chronic digestive disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (discussed further here)..

‘Traveller’s diarrhoea is simply a form of gastroenteritis (un-affectionately known as ‘gastro’), an intestinal infection that triggers inflammation and injury in your gut.’

If this sounds like you, or someone you know, it might be time to discover the three most important strategies that can help you get your gut back on track with the help of a natural healthcare Practitioner at Your Wellness Centre, outlined below.

Step 1: Start with a Snapshot

Whether you develop chronic gut symptoms after Bali belly depends on a couple of factors.

One is how healthy your gut was, to begin with: if you started off with a lower number of beneficial bacteria, due to factors such as a low-fibre diet or frequent antibiotic use which can disturb your gut bacteria, you may be more likely to develop chronic gut issues following Bali belly.

The second is the type of bug: a super destructive bug can decimate even the healthiest microbiome to the point where knock-on issues start to arise (such as chronic bloating).

Regardless of the situation, if you’ve experienced Bali belly and don’t feel like your gut is back to normal yet, get a snapshot of your gut bacteria through microbiome testing (discussed further here).

This test allows you to assess the damage by revealing every single type of bacteria in your gut (beneficial vs less beneficial) and how they may be impacting your gut health.

his information, you and your naturopath can create a plan together to bring your gut microbiome back into balance.

Step 2: Repair and Regenerate your Gut

After surveying the state of your gut microbiome, it’s time to start repairing your gut using a combination of probiotics, nutrients and herbal extracts.

Probiotic strains including Saccharomyces cerevisiae (boulardii) (SB), Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG®) and Bifidobacterium animalis ssp lactis (BB-12®) have been shown to assist with the consequences of traveller’s diarrhoea by:

Preventing infections from escalating (blocking infectious bugs from being able to ‘stick’ to your gut lining and causing havoc);
Protecting your gut from tissue injury caused by gastro;
Restoring a good balance of beneficial gut bacteria lost to infection or treatment with antibiotics.

It’s important to note that these benefits are unique to the above types of probiotic strains; you can’t take just any old probiotic and get the same results.

As such, it’s always worth selecting probiotic strains that are supported by scientific evidence, especially when it might mean the difference between symptom recovery or relapse (discussed further here about why choosing a specific strain matters).

Similarly, nutrients, such as glutamine and zinc, in addition to herbal extracts, such as aloe vera and boswellia, can also repair the damage to your gut lining, by reducing inflammation and providing the nutritional building blocks your gut needs to heal. As such, by combining the power of probiotics, herbs and nutrients, you can help your gut return to its former glory.

‘It’s important to note that these benefits are unique to the above types of probiotic strains; you can’t take just any old probiotic and get the same results. As such, it’s always worth selecting probiotic strains that are supported by scientific evidence, especially it when it might mean the difference between symptom recovery or relapse.’

Step 3: Eat your Way to Gut Health

Eating to maintain your gut health is fundamental to your recovery process, as this helps to restore your beneficial bacteria and can promote gut healing. Start with following these simple tips:

Minimise your intake of inflammatory foods (e.g. alcohol or foods high in sugar), as these can make it difficult for your gut to heal;
Aim to eat an abundance of plants, particularly a variety of colourful vegetables, as these contain prebiotics known as polyphenols, which help feed and rebuild your good gut bacteria;
Limit foods that cause you bloating or discomfort, such as dairy or wheat, just for a few weeks, whilst the gut rebuilds and regains its ability to digest these foods properly.

These are just a few small ways to better your diet and get back on track after Bali’s belly, but for specific dietary advice to suit your unique needs, speak to our qualified and experienced naturopath at Your Wellness Centre.

Destination: Gut Regeneration!

Nothing can make you appreciate the value of good gut health like a bout of gastro! And with the help of a naturopath, you can score a one-way ticket back to living your life without the lingering effects of traveller’s diarrhoea.

Start by being proactive, getting a snapshot of your gut followed by taking steps to heal the gut in conjunction with a healthy diet, so you can get back to your wanderlusting adventures over at your next expedition!

July 1, 2022/0 Comments/by Glenda Johnson

Digestive, Digestive Health

Pain in the Gut?

Are you struggling with pain in the gut that is getting you down and no matter what you try, it just won’t go away?

If so, this could be the most important piece of information you are about to read.

You see, I know what it’s like, I see so many people who describe their severe indigestion or their disturbed digestive difficulties. Then there are others who have uncomfortable symptoms like bloating, wind, constipation, burping, abdominal pain, colic, nausea, acidity, and reflux.

IBS or Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a common name given to this condition. And yes, it can be helped!

There are quite a variety of factors that can lead to this:

Pretty common is the use of antibiotics that kill the good and bad flora of the gut.
Others include stress, food intolerances, dieting, skipping meals, eating on the run, and eating too fast.
Parasites and other intestinal organisms flourish in the presence of an unhealthy microbiome.

Should you wish to get an idea of the extent of your Gut Problems, tick the relevant symptoms which apply to you:

Take the Gut Problems Test:

☐ Abdominal cramps
☐ Drowsiness after meals
☐ Diarrhoea
☐ Constipation
☐ Halitosis (bad breath)
☐ Flatulence
☐ Fatigue
☐ Failing memory
☐ Constant tiredness
☐ Candida infections
☐ Joint pain & muscle aches
☐ Poor appetite
☐ Depression or anxiety
☐ Mucous in stool
☐ Hemorrhoids
☐ Abdominal bloating

So just what do a collection of these symptoms mean?

Well, depending on the amount, these symptoms indicate that you may have a level of possible Gut Toxicity that could be helped.

If you have less than 4 ticks your toxic load could be a level 1
If you have 4 to 8 your toxic level is possibly 2
If 8 or higher it is a level 3, and in my experience, could indicate toxic overload!
Levels 2 and 3 are very significant and even at level 1 treatment is wise!

If you wish to reverse your gut toxicity level and rid yourself of symptoms that are a nuisance,
then make a booking at Your Wellness Centre today.

As a special offer, if you book a Naturopathic consultation before 30th October 2022, to address the extent of your gut toxicity, you will receive A FREE Live Blood Screening, normally valued at $125.00.
So take advantage of this today.

Normal initial consultation fees apply.

To restore your gut health naturally phone 9879 9596, make a booking online or email health@yourwellnesscentre.com.au

Guarantee:

Our guarantee to you is if you don’t understand the causes of your pain in the gut after one consultation and if after following our suggestions, your gut symptoms have not improved within 30 days we will continue treating you free of charge until they are.

That’s how confident we are in delivering our service to you.

March 4, 2022/0 Comments/by Glenda Johnson

Detoxification

9 Easy Ways to Help Your Body Detoxification

So, what does detoxification mean? Essentially, detoxing is medicinal and refers back to the herbal elimination of pollution from the body. On a daily foundation the liver, kidneys, intestines lymphatic structures are doing these paintings constantly for us.

Use These Tips for 2-3 weeks to get Started:

1. Eat A Cleansing Diet

Fresh fruit and vegetables (organic). The high fibre in these helps to sweep out intestinal debris. They also contain antioxidants which help to neutralize free radicals –unstable molecules which damage healthy cells.
Have nourishing soup, whole grains, olive oil, flaxseed oil, nuts, and seeds.
A palm-sized portion of fish or organic chicken at each meal and limit red meat to twice weekly
Drink pure water and cleansing herbal teas which stimulate kidney function and flush out wastes
Avoid having fatty foods. Also minimize salt, sweets, refined foods, flour, and dairy products.
Avoid other common toxins such as tobacco, caffeine, and alcohol.
Caffeine is a powerful stimulant drug that speeds up the metabolism, increases symptoms of anxiety, causes insomnia, and causes fatigue after the stimulation wears off. It overstimulates the adrenal gland and places the body in a state of chronic stress. Osteoporosis, PMS, and menopause are all made worse by caffeine. It is also addictive.
Alcohol – excess interferes with the body’s ability to detoxify chemicals including estrogen and other hormones. It also causes dehydration.

2. Distinguish Craving from Hunger.

Before you reach your hand into the potato chip bag, ask yourself one question: “Am I really hungry or is this a craving?”

Listening to your body will help you eat intuitively and you’ll be more inclined to reach for healthier foods that will nourish instead of harm.

If you’re not sure whether you’re actually hungry, try drinking a glass of water and waiting a few minutes. True hunger is a rare thing in most people, as we tend to graze all day.

So, listen to your body!

3. Detoxify with Herbs.

Herbs have been used for detoxification for centuries. Use one or more times per year for optimal health.

Herbs support the organs of elimination and facilitate the process of purification. Purifying herbs stimulate the elimination of wastes, increase urination, encourage perspiration, stimulate circulation and enhance immune function.

It removes excess mucous from the lungs and intestines and improves digestion.

4. Substitute Natural Remedies for Synthetic Drugs.

Drugs are metabolized by the liver and are excreted by the organs of detoxification.

These are very necessary sometimes.

However, where possible use herbal remedies which work in harmony with the body.

There are natural alternatives for almost every health problem.

5. Purify with Breathing.

Focus attention on your breath to affect well-being.

Shallow breathing causes chronic low-level stagnation which leads to fatigue, poor concentration, headache, and grogginess.

Proper breathing enlivens the body, relieving tension and anxiety.

6. Exercise.

This improves circulation and stimulates blood flow throughout the body allowing it to carry away wastes and transport nutrients efficiently.

The muscular activity enables lymphatic fluid to move through the channels.

It promotes healthy digestion and intestinal function.

It improves immune activity, keeps the muscles toned, keeps bones strong and healthy, enhances mental functioning, and relieves stress and anxiety.

7. Reduce Stress.

The adrenal glands release too much adrenaline when the body is stressed. These raise the blood pressure and heart rate.

Digestion shuts down, immune activity is decreased and the muscles become tense.

Breathing and relaxation techniques are useful.

Nurture loving relationships and indulge in pleasurable activities.

Remember, a certain amount of stress is normal – it is excessive, long-term stress which is unhealthy.

8. Get A Massage.

This stimulates lymph flow and drainage. It increases circulation, breaks up fatty deposits and cellulite, increases relaxation and well-being

9. Detoxify Your Thinking.

Habitual thinking plays a role in physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Detoxify your thinking by journal writing and commitment to change if bad thoughts are bringing you down.

By journal writing, you become aware of your thoughts and learn to think in self-affirming ways.

Meditation helps to decrease the stress hormones and visualization helps to harness the power of the mind to create the desired outcome.

August 24, 2021/0 Comments/by Glenda Johnson

Cold and Flu, Coughs and Colds, Immune System

Beat the Flu, Prevent Colds & Strengthen Immunity

Beat the Flu, Prevents Colds & Strengthen Immunity

Lady is having an allergy, she needs allergy testing Current reports state that one of the strains in the flu vaccine used this year has mutated. So if this is what you normally do to keep the flu away, then perhaps it’s time to look for some natural assistance!

So just what can you do to really help beat the flu, prevent colds and strengthen immunity?

We encourage you to do your best to prevent catching a cold or getting the flu. You can keep up your exercise, you can eat well, and you can take all the good supplements.

Despite all this, if stress or other life events interfere with these healthy habits, you might just find yourself ‘under the weather. So keep reading to see how to get on top of it all.

Oh and this does not include taking antibiotics. What many people may not realise is that antibiotics only target bacteria and are not able to kill the viruses responsible for colds and flu.

Here, I share with you some of the herbs and nutrients we use at our naturopathic clinic in Ringwood to help manage these viral infections and keep your immune defences strong.

Herbal Helpers

A number of traditional herbs have been clinically shown to improve immune function and reduce symptoms of the common cold and flu.

The Ayurvedic herb Andrographis can reduce both the severity and duration of cold and flu symptoms.

Picorrhiza has been used traditionally in both Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine to help maintain a healthy immune system. It is now understood that this herb has both anti-inflammatory and immune-stimulating actions.

Elderberry is a mainstay of traditional Western herbalism for its anti-catarrhal and fever-reducing activity. It helps to relieve acute cold symptoms as well as recurrent coughs.

If you are unwell with a respiratory virus, our Naturopaths can recommend a herbal formula that contains these immune-supporting herbs.

Medicinal Mushrooms.

Medicinal mushrooms have a long history of use in Asian cultures and are now known to have strong antiviral activity.

The immune-boosting potential of reishi, shiitake, cordyceps, and Coriolus mushrooms has been extensively studied.

Not only can they help reduce the length and severity of an acute cold, but they can help prevent future recurrences.

Getting Rid of the ‘Gunk’

Mucus and phlegm are signs that your immune system is hard at work, but the resulting congestion can lead to blocked sinuses and breathing difficulty.

The decongestant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial essential oils of eucalyptus, thyme, lavender, and peppermint may help to reduce the nasal and sinus congestion that accompanies upper respiratory tract infections.

Mucus congestion can also cause irritating or chesty coughs.

Liquorice is recognised in Western herbal medicine for its soothing, anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties.

An extract of liquorice root can reduce irritation of the respiratory mucous membranes, helping to soothe dry coughs and relieve mild bronchitis.

The Ayurvedic herb Adhota is a helpful bronchodilator also with expectorant properties. By encouraging the clearing of congestion-causing phlegm, your airway becomes more open and that irritating wheeze reduces.

If you are coughing or your sinuses are blocked, speak with your Naturopath about an appropriate formula containing these mucus-busting herbs and essential oils.

From the above, a naturopath at our Ringwood naturopathic clinic can formulate a specific combination of ingredients just for you!

Super Charge Your Immunity

Give your immune system a head start by incorporating these healthy habits into your diet and lifestyle: Eat fresh fruits and veggies.

Aim for at least two serves of fruit and three cups of vegetables daily.
Fill your plate with a rainbow of colour to provide nutrients and antioxidants to help build strong immunity.

Lightly cooked vegetables are a nourishing option in winter.

Eliminate inflammatory foods:
Sugar, refined carbohydrates, dairy, and wheat can all be inflammatory and may suppress immune function.

Avoid mucus-promoting, inflammatory foods such as dairy and processed foods.

Drink plenty of fluids to replace those lost as you blow your nose repeatedly;

Reduce stress:
Stress steals energy and nutrients from your immune system, leaving you susceptible to getting sick.

Enjoy the benefits of scheduling time out, meditation and time spent in nature.

Exercise regularly:
Remaining active not only makes you feel good; it also reduces the frequency of contracting a cold by up to 46%.

Sleep soundly:
Sleep - Your Wellness Centre Naturopathy The lifestyle prescription when you are unwell is to get lots and lots of sleep!

Aim for at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night to restore energy and allow your immune system to regain its strength and resilience.

The Lost Art of Convalescence

In this modern world, you may feel obliged to ‘soldier on’ despite coughing, sneezing and so operate at less than your best.

Taking the time to rest and recuperate reduces the risk of spreading the infection to your colleagues and helps you to recover sooner.

Fight Back and Stay Well
This means that you can Embrace Winter instead of fearing it.

So, If winter for you means multiple colds, days off work or catching yet another flu from a sick family member or colleague, embrace immune-boosting Natural Medicines and let this be your season of change.

And even if a cold or the flu finds its way to you this winter and is stopping you from performing at your best, don’t despair – naturopaths in Ringwood can recommend a herbal or nutritional formula with antiviral, anti-inflammatory, decongestant, and immune-boosting power to support you and help get you back to health again.

Take the step toward a healthier you!

For further help or advice do Contact us Or
you can also make a booking online.

July 8, 2019/0 Comments/by Glenda Johnson

Mental Health, Naturopathy

Identifying Mental Health Drivers

Why can’t I get motivated?

Procrastination, it’s a real issue that many of us face daily as we live repetitive lives that leave us feeling lacking something.

So, what causes you to lack motivation?
Is it that you’d rather by lazy? If so, why?
Is it that you are sick of the same thing day in and day out?
Could it be something more than that? Or something you haven’t identified yet?

Brain Mental Health - Your Wellness Centre It isn’t unusual for mental health, such as depression, stress, anxiety, adrenal fatigue, chronic fatigue or underlying illness to cause you to feel this way. The important thing is to know that you are not alone, there are ways of getting past this and there can be ways to facilitate a better outlook on life.

Holistic medicine has been well known for its ability to identify and treat many facets of our health that can often be overlooked or dismissed, as the origin is not always clear.

What can you do to identify you might need help?

When was the last time you spoiled yourself and didn’t feel the need to justify it? If you can’t remember or if your answer wasn’t “last week”, then you might need some guidance.

What do you do to relax? If your answer involves TV and alcohol, perhaps it’s time to have a closer look at what else you could be doing to nourish your soul.

How easy is it for you to get irritated by small things? If you answered anything other than “I don’t”, then you might need to have a chat about why these things bother you.

Managing Stress - Your Wellness Centre Do you feel under pressure or stress more often than not? If you answered yes, then you probably need support to not only cope but to tone your nervous system so it is more resilient to the effects of stress.

Is it becoming increasingly difficult to let things go when you’re presented with a stressful situation?
If yes, you may need help to get through this.

What can holistic therapies, such as naturopathy, do to help?

Naturopathy looks at all aspects of your life; the way your body is functioning, the food you eat, how well you sleep, what you do to relax, your social network, history and family history of illness and disorders. All these details go into creating a comprehensive map of you. When analysing these details, your practitioner can find ways that fit into your lifestyle that will be sustainable to make lasting change.

If this sounds like something that could be helpful for you, contact us, your mental health Naturopath at Your Wellness Centre, (03) 9879 9596 or email health@yourwellnesscentre.com.au.

May 22, 2019/0 Comments/by Glenda Johnson

Mental Health, Naturopathy, Nutrition

Zinc: The Key Mineral – Mental Health, Immunity, Reproduction, Skin Health and more

Zinc, with all its important physiological uses, is a mineral many of us are unknowingly deficient in.

Sourced from oysters, beef, and turkey, it can also be found in trace amounts in beans, cashews, almonds, and pepitas (pumpkin seeds) to name a few, but due to the lack of zinc in the soil in Australia, it depends on where the produce is grown to how much it will contain.

Phytates in grains, legumes, and nuts can reduce its absorption, leaving many vegans and vegetarians in need of supplementation.

More than 300 enzymes utilise zinc to facilitate biological processes, such as protein and DNA synthesis, cell division, and signaling.

It is highly concentrated in the hippocampus, which controls homeostasis, so it is no wonder that it can affect so many aspects of the body.

What does Zinc do for you?

Immune function
Zinc helps activate T lymphocytes (T cells) which benefit immunity in two ways; controlling and regulating immune response and attacking infected or cancerous cells.
Treating the common cold
With its effects on immunity, it has been shown to reduce the severity and duration of colds when taken within the first 24 hours of symptoms being present.
Wound healing
By helping maintain the integrity of the skin and mucosal membranes, zinc reduces skin healing times and can reduce the recurrence of rashes, acne, and other integumentary conditions.
Antioxidants and anti-inflammation to prevent chronic disease
A well-known electron donor, zinc has the ability to reduce damage from free radicals and reduce the cascade of events leading to chronic inflammation, which is linked to many chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, age-related macular degeneration, Alzheimer’s, and Rheumatoid arthritis.
Reproduction
Zinc plays a key role in the male reproductive system; it is a key element of the quality of sperm and zinc status in men is ideally monitored up to 80 days prior to conception.
Diarrhoea
Zinc supplementation has been shown to be an effective treatment of diarrhoea and prevents future recurrences.
Coping with stress
During times of stress, and chronic stress states, the need for zinc increases as well as its elimination meaning the need for it in the diet or supplemented is increased.

What are some of the signs of Zinc deficiency?

With such a big role to play in so many facets of our health, it can be a difficult deficiency to identify.

Amongst some of the symptoms are:

Reduced or abnormal smell or taste
White spots or brittle nails, cracks and splits on fingertips
Poor appetite
Skin conditions; acne or eczema
Reduced or altered cognition; brain fog
Reduced mood, mild depression
Poor wound healing
Hair loss

What else can affect Zinc levels?

Other than reduced zinc consumption through dietary means, malabsorption and chronic illness such as diabetes, malignancy, liver disease, or sickle cell disease can reduce zinc levels. The consumption of alcohol in excess can lead to deficiency.

Taking prescribed diuretics increases the secretion of zinc and can aggravate zinc deficiency.

Can you have too much Zinc?

Excessive zinc can lead to toxicity, which causes adverse effects such as nausea, abdominal cramping, diarrhoea, and headaches.

Copper and iron levels may also be affected by the use of zinc supplementation or when consuming zinc-containing foods, it is recommended to consume separately from meals to reduce competition.

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If you would like to know more about whether you’re suffering from a zinc deficiency, or if zinc is the right supplement for you, and more information about dose and interaction, contact our mental health Naturopath to discuss your options, call 9879 9596 and book an appointment today!

May 21, 2019/0 Comments/by Glenda Johnson

Digestion, Digestive, Digestive Health, Digestive Problems

Polyphenols and Gut Health

One of the lesser-known benefits of consuming a diet high in polyphenols is its beneficial impact on your gut bacteria.

Polyphenols help the Gut

They selectively encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria.

They are naturally occurring chemical compounds found in many of your favourite foods like blueberries and chocolate and they act like good food for your microbiome.

It contributes to good intestinal health by supporting the gut microbial balance by encouraging the production of beneficial bacteria and discouraging the growth of bad bacteria.

Benefits of Polyphenols

The portion of these foods that are beneficial to your inner health is the part that your body does not digest at all.

You see, once consumed, only about 5-10% of polyphenols are directly absorbed in the small intestine, while the rest make their way to the colon.

The undigested part of the polyphenol-rich foods that make it to the colon increases the good guys and decreases the bad guys helping create a healthy microbiome.

And with a healthy microbiome comes more energy better moods better sleep less pain happier belly and more balanced immunity.

Good health starts with the gut, so eat lots of polyphenol-rich food to keep your bugs happy and so to keep you healthy.

Foods that contain Polyphenol

wine, dark chocolate, berries, avocado, greens, fish, nuts They are found in foods such as tea, wine, chocolates, fruits, vegetables, and extra virgin olive oil, just to name a few.

You can benefit by specifically including apples, blueberries, plums, strawberries, cherries, raspberry, pomegranate, broccoli, spinach, rosemary, thyme, basil, curcumin, and other spices; dark chocolate, flaxseed meal, red wine, resveratrol containing foods, weak black tea, peppermint tea, green tea.

So worth looking into including more of these to support a healthier gut.

April 18, 2018/0 Comments/by Glenda Johnson

Naturopathy, Wellness

Holiday Season Health Tips

Travelling over these Holidays?

Furtherest from your mind I know but a little bit of holiday first aid won’t go astray!

You see it’s possible to pick up a gut infection or even nasty virus while you’re away so having some support is a great idea.

– Immune system support

We can help you with good quality vitamin C, Zinc, Echinacea, Super Mushroom complex and some of the key herbs and nutrients to help support your Immune system.

– Digestive system support for traveling overseas is recommended just in case you get food poisoning or catch some sort of stomach bug.

So to support your gut while traveling, something like a probiotic or a good herbal formula to help reduce your risk of bacterial or parasitic infection is great.

– Stomach Bugs. If you do end up on antibiotics while you’re away specific probiotics strains will help reduce antibiotic-associated diarrhea and also protect your gut bacteria from the antibiotic. Besides this there are a number of herbs that have antibacterial and anti-parasite action in the digestive system and these can help reduce your chances of catching a stomach bug.

Just Keep Moving

– Try to keep moving so your exercise doesn’t fall by the wayside (even a ten-minute walk will do ).

– If you have a pedometer lying at the back of your top drawer – it may be time to get it out so that you can aim for about 10,000 steps a day.

– Include a Christmas Day morning walk and what about adding a walk around the block after your Christmas feast. Nice time to check out the neighbourhood gardens and Christmas decorations.

– What about even going out to the park to play with the new toys with the kids.

Tempting Food

You don’t have to miss out, but it is worth taking these ideas on board:

– Watch your food portion size. Perhaps use a smaller plate.

– Even chewing your food really slowly and waiting about 20 minutes after finishing your meal to see if you really want seconds.

– Carbohydrates, the starchier the better, seems to be the catchphrase for Christmas. These carbohydrates are really just sugars in disguise, so try to limit these.

– Besides this, over Christmas, it’s virtually impossible to avoid real sugar.

And while enjoying your second serve of trifle, it’s easy to forget that sugars are easily converted to fat and that sugar can also affect stress and the immune system.

– So reach for some beautiful cherries or stone fruit and try to avoid snacking on chocolates and biscuits and cakes and ice cream and lollies and all those Christmas items that at this time of the year are so easily accessible.

You want this to be a fun time, not an “I feel so sick” time.

Stress Overload and Sleep Deprivation

These tend to be pretty normal at this time of year.
– So worth noting that elevated stress (last minute shopping, sprucing up and decorating the house and garden because you’re doing a huge lunch this year) can affect your quality of sleep which isn’t good for your waistline. Research shows that lack of sleep will increase your appetite and also influence the number of calories you consume. So try to pace yourself.

Stress Helpers

Withania is a great herb to use in times of stress. It will calm an agitated nervous system and give a bit of an energy boost. With this being the case it might just be the herb you need to help you through the festive season and all the preparations you have to do before Christmas.

Magnesium

Magnesium (or Christmas Magic) is natures relaxer. Most of us are deficient in magnesium and it is the second most common deficiency in the Western world (after Zinc) It helps stress it helps sleep as well as anxiety and it’s a great mineral to take over the Christmas. And any stressful time of the year.

So now I feel you are pretty well equipped with ’first aid’ knowledge to have a lovely holiday….

Take the step toward a healthier you!
Call 9879 9596 and book an appointment today!
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December 11, 2017/0 Comments/by Glenda Johnson

Digestive, Naturopathy

Gut Toxicity Causes, Resultant Conditions, Treatment

Your Wellness Centre Naturopathy - Gut Toxicity The identification of bowel toxicity followed by effective treatment is invaluable to many patients. Current dietary and lifestyle practices have produced an increasing number of health disorders caused by a malfunctioning digestive tract and toxicity that results from it. We start by looking at the causes of toxic bowel syndrome also referred to as Gut Toxicity.

The causes of toxic bowel syndrome are as follows:

1. Perhaps your digestion of protein is not as good as it could be due to excessive consumption and lowered stomach acid production.

2. Intestinal overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria – (bacteria that don’t need oxygen to survive) often due to maldigestion.

3. Insufficient healthy gut flora. – aerobic bacteria are necessary for healthy gut function.

4. Maybe there’s something missing in the diet. Perhaps you lack things like glutamine, vitamins A, B12, folic acid, B5. These nutritional deficiencies will cause the breakdown of the gut barrier and its ability to recover.

It’s then possible to have what is now known as leaky gut. Here the Intestinal lining could be damaged resulting in holes that allow the entry of increased levels of molecules from the gut into the bloodstream. Because these molecules are able to cause unwanted actions you could end up with problems like poorly functioning liver or liver damage and widespread inflammation in the body. Irritation, inflammation, or damage to the intestinal mucosa results.

5. Oral antibiotic therapy: Many individuals report having Thrush after taking antibiotics. This is because of the Candida overgrowth that often occurs after antibiotic therapy. Besides this, antibiotics actually disturb natural bacterial growth, causing overgrowth of putrefactive and other bad bacteria.

6. Saccharin sweetened beverages: These can lower the production of important enzymes from the pancreas and then result in poor digestion. Undigested food particles pass to the colon, resulting in more bad bacteria and increased toxicity.

7. High-stress lifestyles can cause the slow down of digestive processes producing chronic poor digestion and bowel toxicity.

8. High sugar diets: When complicated with drugs, hormones and other immune disturbing practices can cause overproduction of not only Candida but also other putrefactive or bad bacteria.

9. Over-eating: this is too much for the digestive system and a lot of undigested food particles pass into the colon, producing more toxic or putrefactive bacteria.

10. Food sensitivities and allergies: For example, casein, gluten, yeast, and other chemicals can trigger immune responses from elements in the gut. The result is the food and allergic reactions experienced by some individuals.

11. Gastrointestinal infections and infestations (bacterial, fungal, parasitic, and viral): Produce severe diarrhea, breaking down the balance of normal gastrointestinal flora.

12. Autoimmune Diseases: For example, the New England Journal of Medicine has documented that the absorption of colonic bacteria from the small intestine produced an auto-antibody cross-reaction with receptors in the brain causing Myasthenia Gravis.

Symptoms of Gut Toxicity include:

Bloating, flatulence, tiredness after eating, brain fogginess, aches and pains in the joints, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, drowsiness after meals, constipation, halitosis, fatigue, failing memory, constant tiredness, candida infections.

Conditions that may result from the above processes are:

Gall stones and constipation
Coeliac disease
Diverticulitis
Gastric Ulcers
Hypochlorhydria
Inflammatory bowel disease
Crohn’s disease
Pancreatic insufficiency
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Scleroderma

The above list emphasizes the importance of identifying toxic bowel syndrome. The cascade of related health disorders that may occur as a result of toxic bowel syndrome dramatizes the importance of both assessment and treatment of this disorder.

Correction of toxic bowel syndrome is especially important to those patients requiring nutritional support to alleviate their health problems since toxicity can interfere with the proper utilization of nutrients.

To Reverse Gut Toxicity:

This requires specific antimicrobial or antiparasitic treatment, healing of the gut, and replacing the noxious bacteria with those which are beneficial to good health.

How Long will it take?

Treatment time depends on your response to our approach.

Removal of the toxicity takes could take from 2 weeks to 6 months. Really severe cases have been known to take between 1 and 2 years.

How Will You Benefit?

Freeing the gut of toxicity and improving leaky has far-reaching effects on your future health.

You will feel so much healthier, some clients describe a feeling of lightness, “I haven’t felt this good for at least five years” and “I just feel so much more energetic”, are frequent expressions of appreciation.

Contact us or ring 98799596 for more information or to make an appointment.

March 29, 2017/3 Comments/by Glenda Johnson