Focus On Magazine, Edition 2, 2013

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focus AUSTRALIA’S GUIDE TO HEALTHIER LIVING!

Edition 2, 2013

THEANINE

THE LATEST SUPERNUTRIENT The Importance of a Healthy Thyroid

Do YOU Need PHARMACEUTICAL

How You Can Get a

DRUGS?

FLAT STOMACH...FAST!

CHC41865-03/11

THEANINE THE LATEST SUPERNUTRIENT

T

ea is one of the most popular drinks in the world! It ranks second only to water as the most consumed beverage. There are countless varieties of tea available with black tea and green tea being the most commonly consumed. Tea consumption dates back more than 5,000 years when it was primarily used as a medicinal beverage.

Tea, particularly green tea, is reported to offer a range of beneficial health and well-being effects. For example, it has been shown in clinical research to improve cardiovascular health, prevent certain cancers, have neuroprotective effects, improve cognitive function, and provide relief from anxiety and stress.

Tea contains numerous active ingredients that offer these health benefits. The latest nutrient that has been identified as playing a significant role is theanine (l-theanine), an amino acid found in green tea.

Over the last few years a growing body of research has been accumulating, outlining the amazing benefits theanine offers. Many of the studies demonstrate

the impact it has on the brain and brain chemistry, especially since it is one of the few nutrients that is able to cross the bloodbrain barrier.

Best of all, all the benefits of theanine can now be obtained by simply using a convenient theanine supplement. BCN’s Tranquil Mind is the first product in Australia to contain therapeutic levels of this valuable amino acid.

In fact just one serving (2 capsules) of Tranquil Mind contains the same amount of theanine as approximately 25 cups of green tea!

Here’s Just Some of the Health Benefits of Theanine Relaxes the mind and relieves anxiety Theanine has been shown to calm and relax the mind. It is able to do this by increasing alpha frequency activity in the brain as measured by EEG brain studies.1 Better still, the calming and relaxing properties exerted by theanine

are provided without causing drowsiness.2 In fact, it can actually improve cognitive function and alertness!3,4,5 These mind-calming and relaxing properties of theanine even extend as far as relieving the symptoms of anxiety in healthy individuals as well as those suffering serious mental health conditions!6,7,8 Promotes better sleep Researchers in Japan discovered that theanine was able to improve the quality of sleep, speed recovery from exhaustion, and promote refreshing feelings after sleep. In fact, many of the participants in the study stated that they felt they had slept longer than they actually did!9 This is particularly good news for people who have trouble getting good quality sleep each night.

Theanine has also been shown to improve the sleep quality of boys diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Disturbed sleep is a common problem with ADHD and theanine is a safe and effective option for childhood ADHD.10 www.focus-on.com.au

3

Improves liver function Japanese researchers have discovered that theanine is able to improve liver function by restoring glutathione (powerful antioxidant) levels in the hepatocytes (liver cells).11 This is of particular interest for people who consume alcohol and for those who take pharmaceutical drugs. Both of these groups of people experience losses of glutathione from various organs in the body.

Theanine is able to counteract the drug-induced losses of glutathione. There is even research suggesting that medications can work more effectively, and side effects are reduced when used in combination with theanine!12 Accelerates the removal of alcohol from the body Theanine has been shown to significantly lower alcohol levels in the body.13 It does this by accelerating the breakdown of acetaldehyde (a toxic by-product of alcohol breakdown).

Furthermore, it counteracts the free radicals that get produced during the process of alcohol breakdown, preventing them from damaging the body.13 Increases focus and attention Theanine has an amazing capacity to promote greater focus and attention.3,4,5 Several studies have shown a positive effect of theanine to help focus attention during demanding cognitive tasks. It also increased the speed and accuracy of performance during those tasks.

May prevent memory problems and help to overcome depression Two of the major contributing factors to cognitive dysfunction are high levels of cortisol (stress hormone) and depression.

It appears that stress hormones, like cortisol, disrupt various brain neurotransmitters, including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.14,15 The resulting imbalance in brain chemistry causes problems with mood and memory.25,26,27,28 High levels of cortisol have also been shown to shrink the brain!14,15 Theanine can protect the brain due to its ability to lower cortisol levels.16 Theanine is able to impart these benefits 4

www.focus-on.com.au

due to its rare ability to cross the bloodbrain barrier. It has also been shown to have neuroprotective effects against environmental toxins and other oxygenbased free radicals.17,18 There may even be potential for theanine to reverse dementia with one study showing theanine to have the effect of improving the memory of subjects with mild cognitive impairment!19 Promotes weight loss There are various components of green tea that have demonstrated weight-loss and fat-burning effects in a clinical setting. Theanine is included in this group.20 The same researchers also found that theanine is able to lower triglyceride (fat) levels in the blood.

Improves PMS symptoms Theanine demonstrates an ability to improve the various mental and physical symptoms associated with menstruation.21 May improve sports performance The unique ability of theanine to calm and relax the mind in combination with increased alertness and focus (as a result of increased ‘alpha wave’ production in the brain) is said to be associated with being ‘in the zone’ or in a ‘flow state’.

Therefore, it is possible that theanine may help to improve sports performance.

Helps prevent colds and flu Theanine also has the ability to prevent colds and flu. A study conducted with 200 healthcare workers has shown a significant difference in the incidence of influenza infection between the test group and the control group.22 Theanine’s ability to prevent colds and flu is further supported by another study that demonstrated its ability to boost the immune function of intense-training athletes.23 This means theanine is a great supplement to take to prevent colds and flu over winter and provides a natural alternative to influenza vaccination or may even be used in conjunction with it. In fact, one study found that the amino acids theanine and cysteine enhanced the efficacy of influenza vaccinations.24

Just one serving of Tranquil Mind contains the same amount of theanine as 25 cups of green tea!

Reduces psychological and physiological responses to stress Since theanine blocks the binding of glutamic acid to the glutamate receptors in the brain it has a positive effect on psychological and physiological responses to stress.29,30 Researchers have found that theanine can reduce a number of markers of the stress response including blood pressure, heart rate, and salivary immunoglobulins (s-IgA).

Since theanine offers such a wide range of enormously beneficial health effects it is worthwhile using every day. Also, theanine has not been found to interact negatively with medications.

BCN’s Tranquil Mind is a concentrated theanine supplement. It is available from health food stores and selected pharmacies or by visiting the Body Concepts website: www.bodyconcepts. com.au. fo Contact admin@bodyconcepts.com.au if you would like a list of the references used in this article.

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5 Ways to Reduce Inflammation and Increase Longevity

H

ealth experts now agree that inflammation is a major cause of many major diseases. These include conditions associated with the heart, lungs, muscle, skin and digestive tract. Recent research also confirms that inflammation can be a major cause of brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease and even many psychiatric conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

While short-term inflammation promotes healing in the body, when it continues long-term it damages essential organs, leading to degeneration over time. As a result, to reach optimal health, it is essential that inflammation be kept in check. While mainstream medicine attempts to do this through medication, the ideal, and more successful approach, is to make lifestyle and dietary changes. Unfortunately, our current lifestyles are ‘pro-inflammatory’, resulting our inflammatory switch being kept in the on position. Below are some anti-inflammatory tips which if maintained over the long term will undoubtedly prevent many of the diseases running so rampant in our society: 1 Eat a healthy, anti-inflammatory diet.

This includes eating lots of coloured vegetables, assorted berries, herbs and spices, lean protein, filtered water, legumes and healthy oils (e.g., omega-3 fats and olive oil). Processed and artificial foods should also be avoided, along with high-sugary and take-away foods. Alcohol should also be kept to a minimum.

2 Exercise. Participating in regular, moderate exercise lowers inflammation and increases our antioxidant defence system.

Exercise also lowers fat levels which also reduces inflammation.

3 Minimise stress. While avoiding all forms of stress is impossible (and probably leads to a very dull life), we do need to learn ways to minimise unnecessary stresses and also learn appropriate coping skills. Relaxation, meditation, engaging in pleasurable activities can all be very helpful. Two exciting nutrients that can also lower our stress response included, Rhodiola rosea and Theanine.

Rhodiola rosea is an herb contained in BCN’s Rhodiola Advanced and has been demonstrated in clinical studies to improve stress-related fatigue and help people adapt to stress. Theanine, the amino acid contained

in green tea also has some solid research showing that it lowers stress levels, improves concentration and increases alpha waves in the brain. Alpha waves are higher during periods of meditation. BCN’s Tranquil Mind is the only Australian registered product containing therapeutic levels of theanine.

4 Improve Sleep. Our sleep patterns can greatly influence our overall health. Healthy sleep can lower inflammation, lower damage from free radicals and increase brain cell growth.

5 Take anti-inflammatory nutrients.

While our lifestyle is crucial in lowering inflammation, there also a number of powerful herbs, spices and nutrients that can help complement anti-inflammatory lifestyles and combat the damage associated with our toxic lifestyles. The top nutrients include, curcumin, which is found in the spice turmeric (BCN’s InflammaCALM), berries and other assorted fruits and vegetables (BCN’s SuperFood Blend), ginger, clove, fennel seed and cinnamon (BCN’s MultiSpice).

By making these changes you can lead a healthier, happier and more productive life!

Your Dairy-Free, Soy-Free, All-Natural Protein Source

The importance of protein in your diet cannot be under-estimated. It is required for building cells, repairing tissues and forming antibodies to combat bacteria and viruses. It is also part of the enzyme and hormonal systems, builds genetic codes, carries oxygen and is involved in muscle activity. Since it is so vitally important we must ensure we have an adequate amount of it each day.

However, rather than simply eating more animal products, many people are looking for vegetable-based protein sources in order to increase their protein intake.

BCN’s ProBlend Dairy-Free is a great-tasting pea and rice protein blend that contains all of the essential amino acids required by your body. It is a quick, easy, convenient and cheap way to increase your protein intake!

BCN’s ProBlend Dairy-Free is: 4 A high-quality vegetablebased protein 4 Dairy & soy-free 4 Low in fat & carbohydrate

4 Low allergenic 4 Vegan-friendly 4 Free from artificial sweeteners

Available from selected health food stores and pharmacies or online www.bodyconcepts.com.au Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist consult your healthcare professional

Body Concepts Nutritionals

For more information visit www.bodyconcepts.com.au or call 08 9248 6904

Do You NEED PHARMACEUTICAL

DRUGS?

I

t is estimated that the vast majority of pre-mature deaths in Australia (70 – 80%) are preventable through modifications in diet, exercise, and exposure to environmental toxins.

Unfortunately though, our ‘health system’ doesn’t work by getting people to make these changes, but rather involves ‘treating’ disease through drugs and surgery.

In saying that, our health care system is very effective at dealing with things like accidents, infections, and life-saving surgeries, but fails miserably when dealing with degenerative diseases; the most common cause of death in Australia today.

The primary reason why the system fails is simply because the model it uses is flawed. It encourages people to wait until symptoms and disease arise before anything is done. The concept of prevention rather than cure is nowhere near as high a priority as it should be.

8

www.focus-on.com.au

Our health system is structured this way due to the influence of powerful pharmaceutical companies and their involvement in virtually all aspects of medicine.

To make matters worse, conventional medical practitioners do not have the time (and often the expertise) to help their patients implement the various lifestyle changes that are required, which leaves very little hope for healing from chronic disease. Those who are trained in areas that can improve people’s lives and prevent chronic diseases, like nutrition, are sometimes taught incorrect information anyway!

Do you have high blood pressure, high blood sugar, or acid reflux perhaps?

Here take these pills to fix all of them.

Thyroid gland not functioning well? Here, take these thyroid hormones and don’t worry about it!

The problem with this approach is that using pharmaceutical drugs only gets rid of the symptoms and doesn’t remove the underlying cause of the problem. For example, it doesn’t remove the cause of the low thyroid levels in the first place.

Plus, drugs tend to have a range of unpleasant and problematic side effects,

making their long-term use ill-advised.

In saying this, it doesn’t mean drugs don’t have their place, they most definitely do! They are best used as short-term, ‘band-aid’ solutions whilst the underlying cause(s) of the problem is identified and fixed.

Unfortunately, identifying and fixing the cause(s) leads to another problem!

Few, if any doctors have the time to arrange a battery of time-consuming and often expensive tests to determine the underlying cause(s) of the problem for the patient.

Additionally, problems also lie with the patient’s willingness to make the necessary lifestyle changes once the problem(s) is identified! More often than not, they would rather keep taking prescription medications on an ongoing basis rather than change their lifestyle!

So what should you do? If you’re currently using prescription medications and would like to reduce your use of them or stop taking them altogether, here’s a range of suggestions you can use. Keep in mind though, you must always work with your doctor if this is something you want to do. [NOTE: Do NOT stop using your medications until you speak with your doctor and obtain their approval first.]

Not only will these suggestions help to reduce or eliminate your use of prescription medications, but they will also help to optimise your body’s functioning, boost your energy level, minimise your risk of disease, and best of all, reduce your chances of dying prematurely. >> Continued on page 10

Concentrated Blend of Powerful Superfoods!

BCN’s all new SuperFood Blend is a superior combination of 19 ‘Superfoods’! It contains a range of berry and fruit extracts carefully selected to provide your body with a wide range of antioxidants and ‘phytonutrients’ (nutrients from plants).

This great-tasting blend of Superfoods mixes easily in water, juice or milk and can be used every day to improve your health and well-being.

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BCN’s SuperFood Blend is: 4 A concentrated blend of 19 ‘Superfoods’ 4 Designed to improve your health and well-being 4 Tastes great

4 Provides your body with a wide range of antioxidants and ‘phytonutrients’ 4 Mixes easily

Available from selected health food stores and pharmacies or online www.bodyconcepts.com.au Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist consult your healthcare professional

Body Concepts Nutritionals

For more information visit www.bodyconcepts.com.auwww.focus-on.com.au or call 08 9248 6904 9

Best Lifestyle Choices For Reducing or Eliminating Your Use of Medications: NUTRITION:

99 Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables every day (raw if possible).

99 Prepare almost all of your meals yourself.

99 Eat a reasonable amount of protein with every meal. Good protein sources include: red meat, chicken, fish, nuts, seeds, legumes (beans and peas), eggs, and protein powder.

99 Have a healthy breakfast each morning. Pura Veda is a good option.

99 Drink plenty of fresh, filtered, clean water.

99 Have a small amount of healthy oils and natural fats in your diet every day. Good sources include: fish, nuts, seeds, avocadoes, olives, and their equivalent oils.

99 Limit your intake of grain-based foods, particularly those containing gluten even if you’re not gluten intolerant. The foods to limit are: wheat and wheat flour, rye, barley, spelt, semolina, couscous, and durum flour.

99 Limit your intake of dairy foods. A dash of milk in your tea or coffee is

okay. Try using almond milk, oat milk or rice milk on your cereal or in your smoothies instead.

99 Minimise your alcohol intake. 1-2 standard drinks a day. Also try to have 3-4 alcohol-free days each week.

EXERCISE / ACTIVITY:

99 Perform 20-30 minutes of vigorous exercise / activity every day. Select something you enjoy and can maintain long term. It doesn’t mean you have to go to a gym (even though it is a great option). Perhaps you could go dancing, take a long walk or ride a bike with your partner, go to the park and throw a frisbee or kick a football with your kids; the options are endless! Just do something every day.

SUPPLEMENTS:

99 Take a high-quality multivitamin/ mineral supplement every day. Since it is virtually impossible to obtain all the nutrients your body requires every day just from food, it is definitely worthwhile taking a multivitamin/ mineral supplement.

99 Improve your gut function. Since your gut is involved in countless processes for optimising your health (some of which science has not even discovered yet), it is essential that you ensure it functions well at all times. The best way to do this is by using a high-quality prebiotic and probiotic. These may be foods or supplements. GastroForte AG and DigestEZE are good examples of prebiotics.

99 Optimise your thyoid functioning. The thyroid gland is associated with the functioning of every cell in your entire

body. Therefore, ensuring it functions optimally by providing it with all the nutrients it requires will go a long way towards improving your overall health.

Thyron provides all the nutrients your thyroid gland requires and therefore acts as a great ‘thyroid insurance’.

99 Reduce the inflammation in your body. Inflammation is associated with a range of diseases. Therefore, reducing the amount of inflammation in your body will dramatically reduce your risk of disease. Some great supplements that help to reduce inflammation are: fish/ krill oil, turmeric, glucosamine, green tea, and fennel seed. Turmeric, in particular, is one of the most powerful and well-researched anti-inflammatory herbs available. It is contained in BCN’s InflammaCALM (as well as green tea), Relieve Turmeric Forte,

DigestEZE, and MultiSpice.

99 Take an antioxidant. Oxidation in the body is strongly associated with disease and ageing. Therefore, finding ways to reduce the impact of oxidation can go a long way towards reducing your risk of disease as well as slowing down the ageing of your body. A good antioxidant powder to use every day is BCN’s SuperFood Blend. Other great supplements to use for their antioxidant benefits are: MultiSpice and InflammaCALM.

So there you have it! All the strategies you need to incorporate into your lifestyle in order to reduce or eliminate your use of prescription medications. You can use as few or as many of these strategies that suit you and your lifestyle. Always keep in mind though, the more you use, the healthier you will be! fo 10 www.focus-on.com.au

the importance of a

healthy thyroid

T

he importance of a healthy thyroid gland for optimum body functioning cannot be over-stated.

It plays an essential role in the functioning of every cell in the body. Therefore, ensuring it functions well should be a priority for everyone.

The thyroid gland is a soft butterflyshaped gland positioned in the lower neck. It produces two hormones T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine).

These hormones affect the functioning of all cells in the body.

Most of the thyroid hormone produced is T4 (approximately 95%) and is considered to be ‘inactive’. T3 is considered to be the ‘active’ thyroid hormone and is produced when one iodine molecule is cleaved from T4. This process generally occurs in the liver with around 60% of the T4 being converted into T3, 20% being converted into reverse T3 (rT3) and the remaining being converted into T3S and T3AC (these last two hormones are inactive until affected by an enzyme produced by the gut bacteria).

Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism, control body temperature, maintain optimal calcium levels, and have an influence on heart health and nerve 12 www.focus-on.com.au

function. The hormones also play a very important role in brain development in infants and are necessary for normal reproductive function. As a result, the thyroid gland affects several crucial body functions right from birth and throughout your life.

With normal thyroid functioning, the levels of T3 (and T4) are maintained within a carefully controlled range.

Since the thyroid hormones control the metabolism of all body cells, the body’s metabolic rate is also controlled by the thyroid gland. Optimal body metabolism means your weight is under control and your energy levels are high.

Since metabolic rate affects the body’s generation of heat the thyroid gland regulates body temperature as well.

What Happens When the Thyroid Gland Doesn’t Function as well as it Should?

Thyroid problems arise from either underproduction (hypothyroidism) or overproduction (hyperthyroidism) of thyroid hormones.

Effects of Hypothyroidism Hypothyroidism is the more common

of the two thyroid problems and occurs when the thyroid gland produces insufficient amounts of T3 and/ or T4.

Alternatively, it may also result from an insufficient conversion of T4 into T3 or excessive conversion of T4 into rT3. The production of thyroid hormones as well as the process of converting T4 into T3 involves numerous steps. Since many steps are involved it is surprisingly easy for problems to occur and as a result, it is estimated that at least 10% of the population suffer from an underactive thyroid gland.

The direct impact of hypothyroidism is a slowing down of the body’s metabolism.

This causes the following effects: • Weight gain or inability to lose weight • Fatigue • Sensitivity to cold • Constipation • Dry/ itchy skin • Brittle hair/ nails • Depression • Headaches • Muscle cramps • Slow wound healing • Unrefreshing sleep • Hair loss • Digestive problems • Water retention • Lateral third of eyebrow thinning Effects of Hyperthyroidism Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, often results from an autoimmune

>> Continued on page 14

condition, and results in the thyroid gland becoming overactive, producing excessive quantities of T3 and T4. This super charges your metabolism and speeds up all body activities causing the following effects: • Weight loss • Anxiety • Insomnia • Eye-bulging • Swelling of the thyroid gland • Increased or decreased energy (depending on the stage) • Sweating • Fatigue What You Need to do to Optimise Your Thyroid Gland’s Functioning?

99 Improve your gut function

Your gut plays many important roles associated with optimum thyroid hormone production. Firstly, it is involved in nutrient absorption into the body and there are many nutrients required for optimum thyroid functioning. Also, healthy colonies of good bacteria in the gut assist with the conversion of T4 into T3 because they produce an enzyme, sulfatase.

Gut problems may lead to thyroid dysfunction through a variety of mechanisms. Food sensitivities, food intolerances, an imbalance of gut bacteria, and a parasitic or viral infection may all cause gut problems, resulting in thyroid dysfunction.

The best way to avoid gut problems is to do the following: • Avoid potential food allergens.

These may include: dairy foods, gluten-containing foods, soy products, eggs, peanuts, tomatoes, corn, and shellfish.

• Remove viral infections or parasites. Antibiotics or suitable natural alternative treatments such as, black walnut, barberry, wormwood, garlic and peppermint are all useful.

BCN’s HemoGard contains a high-quality garlic extract and DigestEZE (BCN’s gut soothing, repair and prebiotic formula) contains peppermint oil.

• Use probiotics and prebiotics.

14 www.focus-on.com.au

Probiotics are ‘good’ bacteria and by taking them, especially after a course of antibiotics, you can help increase the number of ‘good’ bacteria in your gut.

This will dramatically improve your gut function. Prebiotics are various types of soluble fibre.

These provide food for the ‘good’ bacteria in the gut, helping them multiply effectively. An example of a high-quality prebiotic is BCN’s Gastro Forte AG. Prebiotics are also contained in DigestEZE.

99 Ensure that your liver functions well

Your liver is the main organ that performs the conversion of T4 (‘inactive’) into T3 (‘active’). This process may be impaired if it has to deal with excessive toxins or hormones, poor nutritional habits or excessive alcohol intake.

Therefore, the best way to ensure that your liver functions well is to minimise your intake of processed foods and

BCN’s Thyron contains all the nutrients your body requires for optimum thyroid functioning. emphasise natural foods as much as possible. These can be obtained from your local IGA supermarket. Drink plenty of clean, filtered, fresh water as well.

It is also beneficial to work with your doctor to reduce or eliminate your use of medications. Finally, minimise your alcohol intake as much as possible.

99 Reduce your stress level

Cortisol is the primary stress hormone in the body. Prolonged production of this hormone causes major problems with the thyroid gland and thyroid hormone production.

Firstly, cortisol inhibits the production of TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) in the pituitary gland by disrupting the hypothalamic-pituitary feedback mechanism. Cortisol also damages the part of the immune system

that lines the gut. This may result in a ‘leaky gut’, allowing toxins and foreign particles into the body. This leads to ‘liver overload’. Cortisol also prevents the regeneration of cells that line the gastrointestional tract, which increases the risk of ulcers. This leads to further gut problems caused by mould, fungi, bacteria, viruses, and parasites, and which also causes more cortisol to be produced.

The best ways to reduce your production of cortisol is to do the following: perform meditation or breathing exercises, use relaxation techniques, or take adaptogenic herbs, like rhodiola rosea, withania, and Siberian ginseng. All of these herbs are contained in BCN’s Thyron.

99 Avoid eating goitrogenic foods in their raw state

Goitrogens are compounds in certain foods that inhibit the uptake of iodine into the thyroid gland. Iodine is an essential mineral for optimum thyroid gland functioning. The good news is that goitrogens can be neutralised by lightly steaming, fermenting or cooking the foods that contain them.

Foods that contain goitrogens include: broccoli, brussel sprouts, peanuts, kale, cabbage, turnips, sweet potatoes, and kelp.

99 Ensure you consume all the required nutrients every day

There is a variety of nutrients that are required for optimum thyroid functioning. These nutrients may be obtained through your diet or through supplementation. However, since it is difficult to know whether or not you’re getting all the required nutrients, or if you’re getting them in adequate amounts, supplementation is definitely worthwhile.

BCN’s Thyron contains all of the nutrients your body requires for optimum thyroid functioning. It is great ‘thyroid insurance’.

There is no doubting the importance of proper thyroid gland functioning and thyroid hormone production for good health, a suitable body weight, and optimum energy levels. Therefore, you must ensure that you take each of the steps listed here to support your body’s thyroid functioning. fo

‘Do YOU Suffer From the Discomfort of Irritable Bowel Syndrome?’

If so, BCN’s DigestEZE may help!

The health of our gut plays such an important role when it comes to the health of our body.

BCN’s DigestEZE is a comprehensive formula that supports gastro-intestinal health. It contains a blend of ingredients, which can provide you with relief from bloating, abdominal pain, cramping and the discomfort associated with medically-diagnosed irritable bowel syndrome.

4 Provides relief from the symptoms of medically-diagnosed irritable bowel syndrome

4 Supports gastro-intestinal health 4 Soothes the gastro-intestinal tract 4 Aids in the maintenance and repair of mucous membranes

Available from selected health food stores and pharmacies or online www.bodyconcepts.com.au Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist consult your healthcare professional.

Body Concepts Nutritionals

For more information visit www.bodyconcepts.com.au or call 08 9248 6904

CHC42143-08/11

* IBS must be medically diagnosed

GET A FLAT STOMACH

FAST!

I

f you’re serious about getting a flat stomach fast, then this article will explain exactly what you need to do!

Having a tight, toned mid-section is probably the most desired body part of all. Unfortunately though, most people fail to achieve their goal simply because they don’t follow the proven principles that are well-known in the fitness industry. Instead they tend to use gimmicks and try to find short-cuts that guarantee failure!

Many people believe that performing endless crunches and sit-ups will flatten their stomach, but are then disappointed when they see little results.

The fact is that once you know what the correct principles are, you must actually use the principles, and finally, you must allow enough time for the principles to work!

When you think about it, it simply makes sense that it is going to take some time to get a flat stomach. Let’s face it, if you haven’t been doing the right things for years how long do you think it will take to turn things around? You can’t expect to undo years of poor eating and lack of exercise within days or even weeks; it takes time!

However, in saying that, in the big scheme of things it really isn’t all that 16 www.focus-on.com.au

long at all. If you’re willing to commit 3-6 months of solid training, correct eating and suitable supplementation you will be able to achieve your goal. So realistically, you can achieve dramatic results fast; just perhaps not as fast as some people might expect.

Most fitness experts will tell you that if you do everything correctly most people can drop 2-3% body fat per month. Therefore, an average person (women: 25-30% body fat and men: 2025% body fat) will take about 3 months to get a flat stomach and then another 3 months to get lean enough to have a really great mid-section.

Of course, this is a guideline only and some people, especially if they’re relatively lean to start with, will be able to achieve this goal much faster!

Achieving a flat stomach is really all about losing body fat! Sure, building the abdominal muscles to make them more prominent definitely helps, but even the world’s best abs can’t be seen if they’re covered by a thick layer of fat!

One final point to mention before we cover the principles is that what we’re trying to do here is create a lifestyle; something that you’re willing to do for the rest of your life, not just the next 3 to 6 months. Therefore, once you achieve

the mid-section that you want you’ll be able to maintain those results for the rest of your life!

Okay, now that we’ve mentioned the fact that it’s going to take some time, let’s examine the principles that you’re going to use.

There are 4 ‘Lifestyle Factors’ that you need to consider. They are: 1. Nutrition 2. Resistance Exercise 3. Aerobic Exercise 4. Supplementation All the principles you need branch from one of these 4 Lifestyle Factors.

1

Nutrition

Let’s start with nutrition. We will cover the nutrition fundamentals that you must follow if you want to get a flat stomach.

Of course, there may be other nutritional principles you want to incorporate into your lifestyle but these are the most important and you must get these ones right first: • Reduce your overall food intake • Have small, frequent meals • Have all 3 macronutrients (carbohydrate, protein and fat) with every meal • Prepare all of your meals yourself • Emphasise more low and mediumdensity carbohydrates (broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, carrots, tomatoes, cucumber, sweet potato, peas, corn, pumkin, etc.) and less high-density carbohydrates (bread, >> Continued on page 18

Trust the Wisdom of the Ages!

Spices have been used throughout the world for centuries as flavour-enhancers for food, as a form of trade and as a traditional way to improve health. In more recent times, scientific research has validated many of the health benefits offered by spices.

Unfortunately though, many people don’t use spices on a daily basis and therefore won’t obtain the benefits they offer. However, now a range of spices can be easily consumed every day because they are available in the MultiSpice easy-to-use vege capsules!

BCN’s Multispice: 4 Contains a combination of 5 4 Comes in an easy-to-use organic spices (turmeric, clove, vege capsule fennel, cinnamon, ginger) 4 Is a convenient way to 4 Suitable for all ages consume spices

Available from selected health food stores and pharmacies or online www.bodyconcepts.com.au Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist consult your healthcare professional

Body Concepts Nutritionals

For more information visit www.bodyconcepts.com.au or call 08 9248 6904

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pasta, rice, cereals, etc.)

Eat more natural, whole foods and less processed foods Minimse your alcohol consumption

As many health experts agree, a great body (and great mid-section) are most often created in the kitchen rather than the gym. Some people offer percentages and say that it is 70% diet and 30% exercise or 80-20, but whilst there’s no doubt that nutrition is more important than exercise, it is not something that you can give percentages. There are plenty of examples of people who exercise regularly, but who eat relatively poorly and are still able to maintain great condition!

Nevertheless, for best possible results use as many if not all of these nutritional principles and you will be well on your way to getting an amazing mid-section that you can be proud of!

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Resistance Exercise

Now let’s look at the impact resistance exercise (weight training) has on your ability to shed body fat and achieve a flat stomach fast.

Resistance exercise continues to be the most under-estimated way to achieve great results fast! Many women still hold the mistaken belief that lifting weights will make them ‘bulk-up’ or look more masculine. But the fact is, if they eat correctly it is impossible for them to ‘bulk-up’ and lifting weight definitely does NOT make women look more masculine. In actual fact, weight training will emphasise their feminine curves!

Lifting weights is such an important part of losing body fat simply because muscle is a very metabolically-active tissue. Therefore, the more muscle you have, the faster your metabolism gets and the quicker you can burn off body fat.

Furthermore, weight training helps you maintain your muscle mass as you lose weight, which is so important. If you don’t lift weights when you want to lose weight up to half of the weight you lose will come from your muscle mass. This means that your metabolism will slow down, making it more difficult to lose body fat.

When it comes to performing the actual abdominal exercises themselves there are a few points to keep in mind: 18 www.focus-on.com.au

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Train your abs like any other muscle group, i.e. don’t perform more than about 20 reps per sets Don’t train abs more than twice a week Use a variety of exercises Train all of the abdominal muscles (rectus abdominis, internal and external obliques, and transverses abdominis)

Aerobic Exercise

When it comes to aerobic exercise the most important principle to consider is the old Nike saying: ‘Just do it!’ Perform aerobic exercise every day, period!

For best results, perform 20-60 minutes per session. You shouldn’t perform aerobic exercise for longer than an hour simply because it may have a negative impact on your muscle mass.

After about an hour of exercise cortisol levels rise in the body, and cortisol breaks down muscle tissue.

It is best to perform aerobic exercise before breakfast or after a weight training session because your body will be in a mildly hypoglycaemic state (low blood sugar). This means your body will be able access and utilise stored body fat more effectively. This can be emphasised even further by taking a thermogenic fat burner prior to the session. These will be discussed in a moment.

To get the best possible results from your aerobic exercise session perform interval training, which is exercise at a steady pace interspersed with sprints.

However, this may not suit everybody so do whatever suits you best.

Also, the type of aerobic exercise you do is completely up to you. It doesn’t matter whether you perform aerobic classes, run on a treadmill, box, cycle, swim, or perform an outdoor session with your trainer, the most important aspect is the fact that you enjoy the exercise and make it a permanent part of your life!

After finishing your aerobic exercise session always wait about 20 minutes before eating or drinking anything (except water).

Since your metabolism will still be elevated and your blood levels of fatty acids will be high (in conjunction with a mildly low blood sugar level), you will keep burning body fat during this post-exercise window.

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Supplementation

There are very few supplements you need to help you burn off body fat. Of course, there are many great health supplements to take to improve your health, but when it comes to burning off body fat you only really need a good thermogenic fat burner and perhaps a glucose disposal agent (GDA).

Thermogenics are great because they speed up your metabolism, give you an energy boost, and force the fat cells to release stored body fat into the blood stream, which may then be used as a fuel source during your workouts.

However, they aren’t suitable for everyone so check with your doctor first before you consider using them.

Also, thermogenic fat burners are definitely not ‘magic pills’. Many people believe that fat burners have some sort of magical property and this belief comes from the marketing that is done by dubious supplement companies who are selling them!

However, they do work, but you’ve got to keep them in perspective. At best you may be able to burn up an extra 100150 calories per day (which isn’t much) by using them. Over 6 months however, this can add up. So don’t expect miracles when you use them.

One of the best thermogenics on the market is XLR8 Thermogenic.

Another supplement that you may want to consider is a group of compounds known as glucose disposal agents (GDAs). These are minerals, like selenium, chromium, and vanadium; herbs/ spices, like cinnamon, fenugreek seeds, gymnema, and turmeric; amino acids, like taurine; and compounds, like alpha lipoic acid (ALA).

These help your body remove glucose from the bloodstream more effectively, making it easier to keep your blood sugar level stable and therefore keep insulin levels low. High insulin is strongly correlated with fat storage. A good example of a product that contains a range of GDAs is BCN’s MultiSpice.

So there you have it! The very best principles to help you achieve a flat stomach fast. If you give these principles a try and allow enough time for them to work you will be absolutely amazed at the results you achieve. Go for it! fo

Contain s Rh Co od nio tala in!s Rhodio la!

Weight LOSS

TIPS!

‘Good’ bacteria in the gut may help weight loss A ‘good’ bacteria present in the intestinal wall appears to have a favourable effect on weight loss. Researchers found that administering the bacteria (probiotic) to mice being fed a high-fat diet reduced fat development and the associated metabolic defects. This is just another reason to ensure you have an adequate intake of probiotics and prebiotics (food for ‘good’ bacteria) in your diet. BCN’s DigestEZE and GastroForte AG are both great sources of prebiotics.

Weight loss reduces diabetes and heart disease incidence An international team of researchers have concluded that a modest weight loss of 4-5 kilograms can significantly reduce a person’s risk of diabetes and heart disease.

They suggested a simple moderate reduction in food intake and increase in activity.

Stress less, lose weight Researchers in Greece have found that reducing stress can have a significant affect on a person’s ability to lose weight. Therefore, using various stress-reduction strategies may be a suitable adjunct to a weight-loss program. These may include: relaxation techniques, meditation, breathing exercises, or simply using herbs that help the body deal with stress more effectively.

Rhodiola rosea, contained in BCN’s Rhodiola Advanced is a good example of a powerful stress-relieving herb.

Hormones may have a greater effect on weight loss than first thought Researchers at the Nutrition Science Initiative believe that what we eat has a far greater impact on our ability to lose weight compared to the simple ‘calories in vs. calories out’ model of weight loss. They theorise that a high carbohydrate intake and its corresponding effect on hormones, like insulin, has the greatest impact on obesity and on our ability to lose weight.

Staying up late may contribute to obesity A recent study published in the journal, Obesity, stated that the body’s internal clock, the circadian system, increases hunger and cravings for sweet, salty and starchy foods in the evening.

Therefore, going to bed earlier (combined with better quality sleep) may be a great way to assist weight loss!

20 www.focus-on.com.au

Product Reviews HemoGard Garlic has an amazing array of health benefits but its pungent odour and taste make it difficult to consume on a daily basis.

Furthermore, many garlic supplements on the market have very low levels of the active ingredients.

HemoGard on the other hand contains LiporolTM, a highly active liquid concentrate of fresh garlic bulb extract that has been proven to provide all the health benefits of garlic.

ProBlend Dairy-Free Protein is an essential part of everyone’s diet because it serves so many functions in our body. Some of the best protein sources are animal products because they supply all of the essential amino acids. However, more people are looking for vegetable-based protein sources instead of animal products in order to ensure they consume an adequate amount of protein every day.

BCN’s ProBlend Dairy-Free is a high-quality, great-tasting vegetable-based protein powder containing a combination of pea and rice protein. It is a quick, easy and convenient way to get the extra protein in your diet every day without the problems associated with consuming dairy products or artificial sweeteners.

MultiSpice Spices offer an amazing array of health benefits, making them an essential part of your daily diet.

However, not everyone can consume a range of spices every day, which means they aren’t able to receive the disease-preventing and healthpromoting benefits they offer.

BCN’s MultiSpice however, provides 5 organic spices in an easyto-use vege capsule, which means that taking a range of health-boosting spices every day is now easier than ever!

Tranquil Mind Tranquil Mind is the first product in Australia to contain therapeutic levels of the valuable amino acid, theanine.

Theanine offers a wide range of health benefits including: relieving mild anxiety, calming the mind (without drowsiness), increasing focus and attention, improving sleep quality, improving liver function, preventing memory problems, helping overcome depression, preventing colds and flus, and reducing stress.

Theanine comes primarily from green tea and one serving (2 capsules) of BCN’s Tranquil Mind has the equivalent of 25 cups of green tea!

Pura Veda Pura Veda is a wholesome, nutritious, highprotein food source filled with unprocessed, uncut seeds and grains.

It is packed with vitamins, minerals and Omega 3s and 6s. Pura Veda is sweetened with the natural goodness of sun dried raisins and contains no added sugars, salts or fats. It is free from gluten, yeast, wheat, nuts, preservatives, additives, flavourings and genetic modifications. Pura Veda is a high fibre, low GI food and may be used as a delicious breakfast cereal, on salads or on its own.

InflammaCALM Turmeric has been used in traditional medicine for hundreds of years to help overcome a range of health issues.

However, studies show that standard forms of turmeric are poorly absorbed by the body and are often excreted before they can be used.

BCN’s InflammaCALM contains Meriva®, a patented form of curcumin delivering superior absorption. In fact, it has been shown to be 27 times better absorbed than regular curcumin. It also contains green tea to promote even better anti-inflammatory effects!

www.focus-on.com.au 21

Health Facts!

Aerobic exercise reduces cancer risk Research announced at the International Liver Conference earlier this year has found that performing aerobic exercise every day may significantly reduce the development of tumours in mice. Whilst there is no conclusive evidence in humans yet these results certainly look promising.

Theanine demonstrates various cognitive-enhancing benefits Theanine, the amino acid found in green tea, has been shown to have some amazing benefits relating to brain function. It is able to exert calming and relaxing effects without causing drowsiness in conjunction with increased focus and attention.

Spices improve lipid profiles Not only are spices useful for enhancing the taste and appearance of food, but they also have an amazing array of health benefits. Researchers in India at the Central Food Technological Research Institute have found that turmeric, fenugreek, and ginger are among a group of spices that have the effect of lowering cholesterol levels.

These same spices are contained in BCN’s MultiSpice.

22 www.focus-on.com.au

Berries may prevent Alzheimer’s disease Researchers have found that the consumption of berries protects the brain against the accumulation of toxic materials (Alzheimer’s disease shows an increased amount of toxic protein in the brain). Apparently the phytonutrients present in berries promote ‘autophagy’, the brain’s natural housekeeping mechanism.

Turmeric extends lifespan It has long been theorised that a diet rich in antioxidants is able to prolong lifespan.

Now a study has found that the active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, is able to significantly extend the lifespan of fruit flies.

This effect results partly from curcumin’s ability to enhance the activity of superoxide dismutase (a powerful antioxidant) in the body.

Are YOU Suffering From the Pain of Arthritis?

If so, BCN’s InflammaCALM may help!

Containing Meriva® a Patented Form of Curcumin Delivering Enhanced Absorption!

BCN’s InflammaCALM may help to:

Available from selected health food stores and pharmacies or online www.bodyconcepts.com.au Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist consult your healthcare professional

Body Concepts Nutritionals

For more information visit www.bodyconcepts.com.au or call 08 9248 6904

CHC52634-10/12

4 Provide temporary relief of arthritic pain 4 Reduce joint swelling and inflammation associated with arthritis 4 Fight against free radical damage 4 Provide temporary relief of the pain of osteoarthritis 4 Increase joint mobility associated with arthritis

Feeling Tense?

Mind Racing?

BCN’s Tranquil Mind May Help to Relieve Nervous Tension and Mild Anxiety!

BCN’s Tranquil Mind contains the amino acid theanine, derived from Green Tea. Theanine may have a relaxing effect on the mind and help relieve nervous tension and mild anxiety. Theanine may also help with sleep and green tea is a potent antioxidant that may assist with the body’s antioxidant defences Contain s Theanin e

BCN’s Tranquil Mind may help to: Relieve nervous tension and mild anxiety Induce relaxation Relax the mind Improve sleep Assist with the body’s antioxidant defences

Use only as directed. If symptoms persist consult your healthcare practitioner.

Available from selected health food stores and pharmacies or online www.bodyconcepts.com.au

For more information visit www.bodyconcepts.com.au or call 08 9248 6904

CHC43032-05/13

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