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focus AUSTRALIA’S GUIDE TO HEALTHIER LIVING!
Edition 3, 2012
7 Ways to Boost Your
Immune System
Top 5 Causes of Illness Food For Your
THYROID How to Lose Weight
Fast!
Protect Yourself From
Alzheimer’s Disease
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.
Am a z i n g f l a vo u r ! M o n eybac g u a ra n t k ee!
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.au or call 08 9248 6904
Protect Yourself from
Alzheimer’s
Disease J
ust like the rest of our body, our brain changes as we age. As we get older, most of us notice a slowing in our thinking and we may experience occasional problems with our memory. However, serious memory loss, confusion, personality changes and other changes in the way our minds work may be a sign that our brain cells are deteriorating. Dementia is a general term for significant memory loss and a loss of other intellectual abilities. Alzheimer’s disease accounts for approximately 50 to 80 percent of dementia cases and is an increasingly common cause of death and disability across the world. One in eight people aged 65 and older has Alzheimer’s disease and this rate increases to nearly half of all people aged 85 and older. More women suffer from Alzheimer’s and other causes of dementia than men, but this may be partly due to the fact that women live longer. In 2009 the number of Australians with dementia was estimated to be 245,000 (over one percent of the population) and alarmingly by 2050, it is estimated that this the total number will exceed 1.1 million. A more than fourfold increase in less than 40 years!
memory loss is mild, but with late-stage Alzheimer’s, individuals lose their ability to carry on a conversation and respond to their environment. The most common early symptom of Alzheimer’s is difficulty remembering newly learned information but as the disease progresses symptoms include, disorientation; mood and behaviour changes; deepening confusion about events, time and place; unfounded suspicions about family, friends and professional caregivers; more serious memory loss and behaviour changes; and difficulty speaking, swallowing and walking. As it tends to run in families, Alzheimer’s disease is considered to be at least partly hereditary. However, just because a relative has Alzheimer’s does not mean that another family member will develop the disease. This is because Alzheimer’s is also influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors. The good news is that the environmental and lifestyle factors can be controlled and therefore, it is possible to greatly reduce your likelihood of developing this devastating disease.
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, where the symptoms gradually worsen over a number of years. In its early stages,
Causes of Alzheimer’s Disease The brain has 100 billion nerve cells (neurons) and each nerve cell connects with many others to form communication
”One in eight people aged 65 and older has Alzheimer’s disease and this rate increases to nearly half of all people aged 85 and older.” networks. These networks have a number of crucial jobs including being involved in thinking, learning and remembering. In Alzheimer’s disease, scientists believe that these nerve cells become damaged and are therefore prevented from communicating efficiently. Two abnormal structures called plaques and tangles are prime suspects in damaging these nerve cells. Plaques are deposits of a protein fragment called beta-amyloid that build up in the spaces between nerve cells, and tangles are twisted fibres of another protein called tau that build up inside cells. Although most people develop some plaques and tangles as they age, those with Alzheimer’s tend to develop far more. It’s the destruction and death of nerve cells that causes many of the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. It is believed that inflammation and oxidative damage (damage in the body from an imbalance between free radicals www.focus-on.com.au
3
and antioxidants) are associated with the development of the plaques and tangles, and therefore the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. While no treatment exists to reverse Alzheimer’s it may be preventable through strategies to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. Potential Natural Treatments for Alzheimer’s Disease Unfortunately, the current medical management of Alzheimer’s disease is relatively ineffective, with no cure on the immediate horizon. Pharmaceutical drugs can slow the progression of some Alzheimer’s symptoms, but generally only for 6 to 12 months. Unfortunately, half of all patients may show no improvement at all. The key to treating this condition therefore lies in preventing it! Because environmental factors play such an integral part, many natural and lifestyle treatments pose as viable options.
+ Curcumin, artillery for our brain’s defence system
“Good quality sleep is also crucial as it restores both the mind and body.” properties make it effective for cancer (prevention and treatment), arthritis, liver disease, irritable bowel syndrome, depression, and many other health issues. A high-quality and highly absorbable curcumin is BCN’s Relieve Turmeric Forte, which is available from health food stores and pharmacies.
+ Exercise, to keep your brain young We all know about the benefits of exercise on our physical body, but it is also an extremely effective anti-ageing treatment. Exercise has the effect of increasing important neurotransmitters (brain chemicals) and can increase a protein in the brain called brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). BDNF promotes brain cell growth and is lower in people with Alzheimer’s disease and other brain conditions. For optimal effects it is recommended that people engage in moderate-intensity exercise, 5 to 7 times a week for approximately 30 to 60 minutes.
+ Use it or lose it
Curcumin is a compound derived from the Indian spice turmeric. A number of clinical studies are currently underway investigating its effectiveness in preventing Alzheimer’s disease in at risk people. In vitro (studies conducted in test tubes) and animal studies have shown that curcumin not only reduces oxidative damage and inflammation, but also reduces amyloid accumulation and other biomarkers associated with Alzheimer’s. While definitive conclusions about curcumin’s effectiveness in preventing Alzheimer’s cannot yet be made, it carries little risk and may be worth trialling. According to numerous experts in the field, Alzheimer’s isn’t the only condition that might be treated by this brightly-coloured spice. Curcumin has also been proven to be an extraordinarily potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound. These 4
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Just like our muscles deteriorate if we don’t use them, the same principle applies to our brain. The brain requires ‘exercise’ to keep healthy and this can be achieved by engaging in activities that use different parts of the brain. There are now a number of ‘brain training’ books, puzzles and websites available that can exercise the brain and possibility slow its rate of deterioration as we age. Regular participation in hobbies, reading books and learning new things can also be helpful.
+ Antioxidants, our defence against free radicals
Free radicals are molecules or partial molecules in the body that can damage cells. While free radicals are not necessarily bad (they are produced naturally in the body), the problem occurs when we have an excess of free radicals compared to antioxidants. This imbalance results in a state of ‘oxidative stress’ which
damages cells, particularly neurons. It is therefore important to reduce the free radical load in the body by avoiding things that increase free radical levels such as smoking, excess sunlight exposure, and excess junk food consumption. Increasing the intake of antioxidants through greater fruit and vegetable consumption, and sensible vitamin supplementation is also important. Berries are a great source of antioxidants and studies show that they have powerful brain-protective effects. BCN’s Superfood Blend is a great way to increase antioxidant intake. It contains a combination of 19 superfoods that can be added to water. Best of all, it tastes great!
+ Rejuvenate the mind through
increased relaxation and quality sleep
With increased workloads, social pressures and financial concerns, stress levels are often sky-high. When stress is high the body releases a hormone called cortisol. Whilst a little cortisol is good, too much is bad and can have damaging effects on the brain. It is therefore important to moderate cortisol levels by improving self-care, engaging in pleasurable activities and learning ways to appropriately respond to stress. Strategies like mindful breathing, meditation and other relaxation techniques can be very useful. Taking a natural herb, called Rhodiola (found in BCN’s Rhodiola Advanced) has also been found in clinical studies to improve energy levels, reduce stress and moderate cortisol levels in the body. Good quality sleep is also crucial as it restores both the mind and body. If you are having problems in dealing with stress or other mental health problems, seek professional support from a knowledgeable practitioner in the area such as a clinical psychologist. With these simple changes in behaviour, your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease are likely to be significantly reduced. Whilst we can wait for a cure to possibly be found in the future, a far better option is to simply be proactive when it comes to maintaining the health of our brain. fo
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CHC41865-03/11
Top 5 Causes oF
ILLNESS A
re you constantly feeling unwell but have been unable to identify the cause? Have you visited your doctor countless times only to be told that everything is fine? If you answered ‘yes’ to either of these questions then you are one of thousands of Australians currently suffering from an undiagnosed cause of illness. Worse yet, you may be offered unnecessary medications to treat your problems, the most common one being antidepressants. Unfortunately, whilst blood tests and physical examinations can identify many diseases, they do little to measure optimal health. Even though you may not be suffering from a ‘diagnosable disease’, this does not instantly mean that all is fine. This article lists five of the most common under-diagnosed causes of poor health that can greatly affect your overall well-being. Sub-Optimal Thyroid Function The thyroid gland produces hormones responsible for regulating the metabolic function of all the body cells, and has a significant influence on the health of the heart, brain and bones. The mainstream medical approach to diagnose thyroid problems is to complete a blood test that measures a hormone called, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). If your TSH level falls within a certain range, then you will be told that your thyroid is fine and no further investigations will generally be undertaken.
Whilst this may mean that you are not suffering from a ‘thyroid disorder’ it says little about the optimal health of your thyroid gland. There are currently countless people suffering from what is often referred to as ‘sub-optimal thyroid function’. This means that your thyroid is not working at ideal capacity and as a result, you may be suffering from many of the symptoms detailed in Table 1, page 11. If you think that you may be suffering from sub-optimal thyroid function visit your doctor and ask him or her to assess all your thyroid hormones (i.e., TSH, T4, T3, rT3, and thyroid antibodies). Even if you have to pay for it yourself it is probably worth the cost. Naturopaths also regularly test for these hormones. Another option is to take BCN’s Thyron which provides all the nutrients necessary for optimal thyroid hormone production plus a number of herbs known as adaptogens. These herbs moderate stress hormone levels in the body which are known to adversely affect the balance of thyroid hormones. Nutrient Deficiencies Vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and essential fatty acids are vital for the health of our body. If we are low in any of these nutrients, it can have devastating effects on multiple body systems. One
“Even though you may not be suffering from a ‘diagnosable disease’, this does not instantly mean that all is fine.” example is with the powerhouses of our cells known as mitochondria. These often overlooked vital components of our cells are responsible for producing the energy our cells needs to move, divide, and produce secretory products. Mitochondria need a number of nutrients to work properly such as B-vitamins (especially vitamin B2), carnitine, and lipoic acid, just to name a few. Nutrient deficiencies can also affect numerous other organs in our body including the brain, heart, lungs and liver. While all nutrients cannot be reliably measured, at the very least it is important that you get tested for vitamin D (a score above 100 is optimal), iron (optimal is a ferritin score above 100 is optimal), folic acid and vitamin B12. Other specialised tests are available but are usually only www.focus-on.com.au
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completed by clinical nutritionists, naturopaths and doctors specialising in nutritional medicine. Digestive Problems You have probably heard the saying, ‘you are what you eat’. However, we need to add to this, ‘you are what you absorb from what you eat.’ Whilst you may be eating a generally healthy diet, optimal digestion and absorption of nutrients is crucial for good health. If you are chronically unwell, your gut should a primary area of assessment and treatment. If you suffer from digestive symptoms such as bloating, wind, reflux and inconsistent bowel movements, you should consider completing a gut healing program. This involves avoiding potentially allergenic foods such as dairy, gluten, soy, eggs, and nuts. You should also try to create a healthy balance of bacteria in your gut by taking prebiotics and/ or probiotics. Prebiotics are food for good bacteria and a highly recommended prebiotic is arabinogalactans. This is found in BCN’s Gastro Forte AG. As an added bonus, arabinogalactans have also shown to help boost the immune system, which is great for winter! Another commonly under-recognised digestive problem is a condition known as intestinal hyperpermeability (or leaky gut). This is a condition that affects the digestion and absorption of nutrients and can lead to chronic inflammation. Leaky gut can be treated through good nutrition, avoidance of foods you may be intolerant to, decreasing your alcohol intake, reducing stress, and balancing bacteria levels in the gut. A number of herbs and nutrients can also heal a leaky gut including, glutamine, aloe vera, slippery elm, glucosamine hydrochloride, quercetin and peppermint. These nutrients are found in BCN’s Digesteze. Silent Inflammation Our immune system provides a crucial role in maintaining our health and defending our body from disease. When the immune system is working properly it turns on in times of need (e.g., when we contract a virus) and then turns off when the threat is eliminated. Unfortunately, for 8
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many people the immune response can be constantly turned on which leads to chronic inflammation. A hyper–sensitive immune response occurs with many autoimmune conditions associated with thyroid diseases, skin conditions, arthritic conditions and adrenal disorders. However, it is extremely common to have chronic inflammation without necessarily suffering from these disorders. This is a state that is regularly referred to as ‘chronic, silent inflammation.’ Although this state may not lead to any diagnosable disease, it will adversely affect general wellbeing. Common symptoms include, lethargy, generalised pain, and a general feeling of being unwell. Silent inflammation is difficult to identify although blood tests such as high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) can be helpful. Engaging in a healthy lifestyle, including good sleep, good nutrition (lots of veges, spices and berries), and regular relaxation will reduce inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil and curcumin (derived from the spice turmeric) can also downregulate the inflammatory response. Cooking with lots of herbs and spices is also important, but if you don’t use a lot of spices every day, take BCN’s Multispice capsules instead. A good source of curcumin is also BCN’s Relieve Turmeric Forte. Sub-Optimal Adrenal Function Our adrenal glands are triangle-shaped glands located on top of the kidneys and are responsible for producing a number of hormones, including our stress hormone, cortisol. When the adrenal glands produce too much or too little cortisol it can make you sick. There are two clinical adrenal disorders that are often assessed by doctors, known as Cushing’s disease (too much cortisol) and Addison’s disease (too little cortisol). These are life-threatening clinical conditions that require medical treatment. However, for many people they can experience a state of suboptimal adrenal function. This means
that while they do not suffer from an adrenal disorder, their adrenal glands are producing too much or too little cortisol. This can lead to a number of symptoms such as, an increased reactivity to stress, sleep disturbances, mood problems, fatigue, a feeling of chronic tension, poor memory and attention, changes in appetite, headache and digestive problems. Depression and anxiety-related disorders can also occur. If you feel that your adrenal glands may be a problem, a salivary cortisol test can be completed. This measures your cortisol output at different times during the day and provides a reliable indication of whether your adrenals are producing too much or too little cortisol. A number of steps can then be taken to improve your adrenal function including, engaging in a healthy lifestyle and good nutrition. Stress management techniques are also helpful. A number of herbs can also help to improve adrenal function and one herb with good clinical evidence to support it is Rhodiola. BCN’s Rhodiola Advanced contains a high-quality, clinically–tested form of Rhodiola. As has been covered in this article, there are a number of problems that can occur in our body which can lead to ill-health. It is important that you discuss your concerns with your doctor or a qualified health practitioner. fo
Do you have problem skin? skin? DoSensitive you have have problem skin? Skin, Eczema,Dry or skin? Sensitive Skin, Eczema,Dry or Do you problem skin? have problem skin? Sensitive Skin, Eczema,Dry or Sensitive Itchy Skin, Eczema,Dry Dermatitis, or Sensitive Skin, Eczema,Dry or Sensitive Skin, Eczema,Dry Eczema,Dryor or Itchy Skin, Dermatitis, Sensitive Itchy Skin, Dermatitis, Dermatitis, Itchy Skin, Dermatitis, Pure essentials No Petro Chemicals Chemicals Itchy Skin,No Dermatitis, Pure essentials Petro
Pure essentials NoPetro Petro Chemicals Vegan friendly PEG 150 No Petro Chemicals Pure essentials PetroChemicals Chemicals Pure essentials No Chemicals Vegan friendly No PEG 150 Pure essentials Petro Chemicals Pure essentials No Petro Vegan friendly NoPEG PEG 150 friendly Vegan No PEG 150 Vegan friendly Mild PEG Harsh Chemicals No 150 Veganingredients friendly Vegan friendly Mild ingredients PEG 150 No Harsh No PEG 150150Chemicals Mild ingredients No Harsh Chemicals No Harsh Chemicals Mild ingredients Mild ingredients No Harsh Chemicals Harsh Chemicals No SLS or SLES SLES NoHarsh Parabens Mild ingredients Mild ingredients No Chemicals No Harsh Chemicals No SLS or No Parabens No SLS or SLES SLES to synthetics NoParabens Parabens or SLES No Parabens No SLS or SLES No Parabens No SLS Parabens Healthy alternative SLS No No SLS or or SLES No Parabens Healthy alternative to synthetics Healthy alternative to synthetics Healthy alternative synthetics synthetics Ingredients derivedto from nature or or natural natural origin origin Healthy alternative to synthetics synthetics nature synthetics Ingredients derivedfrom fromnature nature or natural origin Ingredients nature or natural origin nature or natural origin Proudly Australian Made and Owned Owned derived or Ingredients nature ornatural naturalorigin origin and derived from nature or natural origin Proudly AustralianMade Madeand and Owned Proudly and Owned and Owned Proudly Australian andOwned Owned Australian Made and Owned
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‘Did You Know That Over 70% of Your Immune System is in Your Gut?’
… and considering your gut comes into contact with more foreign organisms than any other organ in your body, it makes sense! Therefore, it is important that you do everything possible to support optimal gut health. BCN’s Gastro Forte AG contains a prebiotic, soluble fibre called Arabinogalactins, which is derived from the Western Larch tree.
4 4 4 4
Is a potent prebiotic A great source of soluble fibre called Arabinogalactins Mixes easily in water or juice or may be added to food Is better tolerated than many other dietary fibres
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
Food For Your
Thyroid
U
p to 10% of the population has some degree of thyroid dysfunction, which results from a range of possible causes. In this article we’re going to cover the best foods to eat in addition to the foods to avoid in order to optimise the functioning of your thyroid gland. The main goal of a ‘thyroid diet’ is to remove any dietary stress on the thyroid gland itself as well as the other systems of the body that are intimately related to the thyroid gland. It is especially important to follow these principles if you suffer from any of the symptoms of Sub-Optimal Thyroid Function (see Table 1 below). It is quite amazing how many people suffer unnecessarily with undiagnosed thyroid problems simply because they don’t fall into the category of ‘clinically low’ thyroid functioning. This means they have a range of low thyroid symptoms (see Table 1.) but their blood test results suggest that their thyroid gland is functioning normally, even if it is slightly low. As a result, some doctors will say their problems are all in their head!
+ Here Are The Dietary Recommendations For Improving Your Thyroid:
99 Maintain a stable blood sugar level 99 Emphasise organic foods where possible 99 Eat more alkalising foods 99 Increase the portion of protein in your meals 99 Reduce your intake of glutencontaining foods 99 Do not eat any goitrogenic foods in their raw state 99 Lower excess oestrogenic compounds in your body 99 Supplement your diet with all the nutrients your body requires for optimum thyroid functioning Now, let’s examine each of these dietary recommendations in more detail.
levels can cause a range of thyroid problems. Firstly, high blood sugar induces secretion of insulin from the pancreas. Elevated insulin has the effect of reducing glutathione levels in the liver therefore reducing its ability to detoxify the body. This stress on the liver impairs various other functions that it has including the conversion of T4 (inactive thyroid hormone) into T3 (active thyroid hormone). Furthermore, since the liver’s ability to detoxify becomes impaired by high levels of insulin, elevated levels of toxins remain in the body which may impair normal thyroid hormone production through several mechanisms (discussed later).
Maintain a stable blood sugar level Maintaining a stable blood sugar level at all times is absolutely essential when it comes to improving the functioning of your thyroid gland. Fluctuating blood sugar
Emphasise organic foods where possible Organic foods contain fewer chemicals and pesticides compared to conventionally-grown foods. However,
Table 1: Here are some of the low thyroid symptoms that a thyroid diet may help to overcome: 99 “ Normal” thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) results 99 Weight gain / inability to lose weight 99 Fatigue 99 Poor eyebrow growth, especially the outer third of the eyebrows 99 Menstrual abnormalities 99 Cold hands and feet
99 99 99 99 99 99 99 99
Constipation Depression Dry skin Hair loss Hoarseness Poor concentration Nervousness Elevated cholesterol
99 99 99 99 99 99 99 99
Brittle nails Muscle cramps Muscle weakness Poor memory Puffy eyes Throat pain Low basal body temperature Irritability
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the cost of organic foods is often prohibitive for many people. Therefore, it is recommended to simply eat more organic foods where possible. There are a variety of chemicals that enter our body from our environment and our food supply that can have a negative impact on our thyroid function, particularly when our liver is having problems with detoxification due to high insulin levels.
of potassium bicarbonate and 100 mg of magnesium glycinate 99 Take 4-6 fish oil capsules each day 99 Take 3 BCN’s MultiSpice capsules each day
+ Here is a list of some of the ways
through which different toxins and chemicals (including heavy metals, like lead and mercury) can affect your thyroid gland:
99 Inhibit the uptake of iodine (essential for proper thyroid gland functioning) into the thyroid cells 99 Inhibit the enzyme responsible for making thyroid hormones 99 Inhibit the function of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) receptors in the thyroid gland 99 Inhibit the ability of the transport proteins to bind to thyroid hormones 99 Inhibit the uptake of thyroid hormones into body cells 99 Inhibit gene expression in cells 99 Negatively affect the metabolism and rate of excretion of thyroid hormones I s it any wonder why so many people have problems with their thyroid gland! Eat more alkalising foods All our body cells work best in a slightly alkaline environment. This means that all the metabolic processes within our cells, including their ability to produce energy and burn fat, work best when the pH is slightly above 7.
+ Here are some ways to increase the
alkalinity of your body: 99 Eat a piece of fruit and/ or 1 cup of vegetables at every meal 99 Every morning have an alkalising drink containing, 1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon of Celtic sea salt, a juiced half-lemon or lime, 1 scoop of BCN’s SuperFood Blend and half a teaspoon of buffered vitamin C powder 99 Every evening before bed take 200 mg 12 www.focus-on.com.au
Increase the portion of protein in your meals Protein is an essential part of everyon’e diet simply because it is has so many functions in the body. Therefore, it is important that you consume an adequate amount of it each day. This means having a small portion every few hours. For example, you may want to have an egg in the morning as a part of your breakfast or add a few tablespoons of mixed nuts and seeds to your cereal. For your mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks you may want to have some nuts or perhaps a protein shake, like BCN’s ProBlend Dairy Free along with a piece of fruit. It is strongly recommended to avoid protein sources from soy and dairy due to their high allergencity. For your lunch and dinner you could have a small amount (perhaps 100-150 grams) of lean meat or chicken breast with salad or vegetables. Whole-food protein sources slow down the absorption rate of carbohydrates, which helps you maintain a stable blood sugar level. Protein also has a powerful satiating (appetitesuppressing) effect, which will stop you from getting sugar cravings and possibly indulging in foods that cause fluctuations in your blood sugar. Reduce your intake of glutencontaining foods The vast majority of people are gluten intolerant to some extent. Therefore, it makes sense to limit your intake as much as possible in order to maintain good health. People with thyroid problems
however, should make a concerted effort to avoid gluten-containing foods entirely. This is necessary because gluten is known to cause an autoimmune response in susceptible people. This means that the body’s own immune system may attack the cells of the thyroid gland, reducing its functioning even further. Gluten is a protein contained in a variety of grain foods including: wheat (and wheat flour), rye, barley, spelt, semolina, couscous, and durum flour. Do not eat any goitrogenic foods in their raw state Goitrogens are compounds found in certain foods that inhibit the uptake of iodine into the thyroid gland. However, the goitrogens can be neutralised by lightly steaming or cooking those foods. Therefore, if you’re having the following foods in your meals make sure you lightly steam or cook them first. Here are the foods that contain goitrogens: peanuts, cabbage, kale, cassava, sweet potatoes, soy beans, kelp, broccoli, brussel sprouts, and turnips. Lower excess oestrogenic compounds in your body Excess oestrogen may result from stress, diet, exposure to xenoestrogens (often found in plastic containers, etc.), and an impaired hormone detoxification system. Excess oestrogenic compounds inhibit the conversion of inactive T4 into active T3 (thyroid hormone). Excess oestrogen also binds to the transport proteins that thyroid hormone would normally bind to. Supplement your diet with all the nutrients your body requires for optimum thyroid functioning One of the easiest ways to ensure optimum thyroid functioning is to supplement your diet with all the nutrients your thyroid gland requires as well as the nutrients required by other parts of the body for related functions. BCN’s Thyron contains all the nutrients your body requires for optimum thyroid function and the associated processes. It is available from health food stores and pharmacies everywhere. fo
Health Facts! Curcumin: Potential anti-cancer benefits! Researchers from the University of Tromso in Norway recently demonstrated that curcumin, the active ingredient in Turmeric, has anti-cancer properties! Oxidative damage and inflammation are known to be strongly correlated with cancer as well as other degenerative diseases. Since curcumin is a powerful antioxidant and antiinflammatory, it is theorised to be useful for the prevention and/or treatment of cancer. Unfortunately, curcumin in its natural state is not very bioavailable (well-absorbed). Therefore, having curcumin complexed to other compounds that improve absorption, such as in the case of BCN’s Relieve Turmeric Forte, will help to unlock all of the potential health benefits this amazing herb offers!
Ginger is beneficial for asthma sufferers Researchers in the UK studying the effects of ginger on 30 adults with mild-to-moderate asthma found that after 3 months, those taking ginger had ‘clinical improvements’ in their asthma symptoms, their health was better, and they were coughing less. Garlic prevents colds Russian researchers conducted a study with over 600 people and found that those who were given a garlic supplement had four times fewer colds compared to those people who received the placebo. It is definitely a great food or supplement to take every day during winter!
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Fennel may be useful in treating Alzheimer’s disease One of the active compounds in fennel appears to be able to improve the long-term memory of laboratory animals. It does this through the same mode of action as donepezil, a drug used to treat Alzheimer’s disease. The mechanism through which fennel works is by boosting the levels of the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine. Stomach ulcers can be treated with cloves Helicobacter pylori is a bacteria that is linked to stomach ulcers and stomach cancer. Conventional medical treatment to eradicate H. pylori from the body is only 80 to 90 percent effective. Plus, the bacteria are developing a resistance to the various antibiotics that are used. A team of researchers in India however, have found that the active ingredient in cloves (eugenol) is effective at stopping 30 strains of H. pylori and did so 25 percent faster than amoxicillin. And the bacteria didn’t develop a resistance to eugenol.
Antioxidants help to normalise blood glucose levels Researchers in France earlier this year published an analysis of the literature relating to antioxidants from fruits and vegetables and their impact on blood glucose. What they found was that not only are antioxidants beneficial in protecting the body again free radicals but they also reverse insulin resistance and improve blood glucose levels. fo
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 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
HOW TO LOSE WEIGHT
FAST! M
any people want to know the most effective ways to lose weight fast and keep it off long term. Unfortunately though, the field of weight loss is filled with ‘land mines’ all designed to blast your attempts at fast, sustainable weight loss. In this article we will cover the very best principles to help you finally get the weight off and keep it off.
Nutritional Principles Your nutritional habits play such an important role in helping you lose weight quickly. Here are the fundamental principles you should use: + Control Your Food Intake
In order to lose weight you must firstly create a ‘calorie deficit’. This means the calories you expend each day through your metabolism and exercise must be greater than the calories you consume from food. Even though your goal is to create a calorie/ energy deficit, it is not necessary to count calories. A far better approach is to simply ensure your reduce the size of your meals, have regular meals, eat a variety of foods, and eat plenty of natural foods (i.e. fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds, all of which are available from your local IGA Supermarket).
+ Minimise Insulin Secretion One of the most effective nutritional principles to assist your weight-loss efforts is to control the secretion of insulin in your body. Insulin is a ‘double-edged sword’. It is an anabolic (musclebuilding) and lipogenic (fat-storing) hormone. Therefore, controlling its secretion from your pancreas is critical to your success. As a general rule, you want to keep insulin levels low as much as possible. This may be achieved by having small, regular meals, by controlling your intake of carbohydrate (smaller portions and emphasising more low and medium-density carbs) and by always having ‘complete meals’. Emphasising more low and medium-density carbohydrates in your diet means eating more fibrous vegetables (low-density carbohydrates), like broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, carrots, capsicum, lettuce, tomatoes, etc. as well as controlled amounts of the
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medium-density carbohydrates, which include, fruits, dairy products and starchy vegetables (potato, sweet corn, peas, pumpkin, etc.). Only a very small amount of the high-density carbohydrates should be consumed. These include, bread, pasta, rice, cereals, sauces, juices, etc. This is important because carbohydrates increase blood sugar levels and blood sugar has a direct impact on insulin secretion in your body. ‘Complete meals’ are meals that contain a portion of all 3 macronutrients: carbohydrate, protein and fat. This means that having a piece of fruit for a mid-morning or mid-afternoon snack is simply not enough! Since it only contains carbohydrate, you must have a portion of protein and fat with it as well. This means perhaps having a small amount of nuts/ seeds or perhaps a small tin of flavoured tuna. For more detailed lists of macronutrient sources, get a copy of Look Good, Feel Great! ($29.95 plus $3.00 postage) from the Body Concepts office Ph: 08 9248 6904. If you’re busy during the day and find it difficult to consume whole foods for all of your meals, perhaps have a protein shake for your mid-morning or midafternoon snacks. BCN’s ProBlend is a good example. Simply put 1-2 scoops in a shaker cup with 200mls of almond milk or oat milk to make a quick, easy and convenient snack/ meal option. + Increase Your Protein Intake
Protein does assist the body with weight loss. It helps to maintain the lean tissues of the body, has an appetite-suppressing effect, and requires more energy to be expended through the process of digestion and assimilation compared to the other macronutrients. That is why it is so important to have a portion of protein with every meal.
Exercise Principles + Regular Aerobic Exercise Sessions (ideally in the morning before breakfast) Regular aerobic exercise sessions will help you achieve rapid fat burning and weight loss. The best time to do cardio is first thing in the morning before
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breakfast. Even though some ‘fitness experts’ dispute the effectiveness of pre-breakfast cardio, it may be argued that if a thermogenic, like BCN’s XLR8 Thermogenic, is used prior to the session the fat-burning and weight-loss results may be significantly improved. + Perform a Resistance Training Workout 3-5 Times a Week Weight-training is an essential part of any weight-loss program. It forces your body to maintain its muscle mass as you lose weight. Without it your body would lose both fat and muscle tissue as you lose weight and a loss of muscle has a negative impact on your metabolism. + Cardio After Weights It is definitely worthwhile performing approximately 20 minutes of cardio (aerobic exercise) after each weighttraining session. This will assist the fat-burning process in your body. Cardio after weight-training is so beneficial simply because your body will be in a carbohydrate-depleted state postworkout, making your body more conducive to using fat as a fuel source when you perform the cardio. Again, taking XLR8 Thermogenic prior to the weight-training session will make the cardio even more effective from a fat-burning perspective.
Supplementation Principles There are several supplements that are beneficial in helping you lose weight fast and improving your health at the same time. Not only is it important to know what supplements to take, but also when to take them. There are 3 types of supplements that everyone should be using on a daily basis no matter whether you’re interested in losing weight or not. They are: a multivitamin, omega 3’s from fish oil and antioxidants. BCN’s SuperFood Blend is a great example of a good-tasting antioxidant supplement in powdered form. However, in addition to these supplements, thermogenics should
be used, particularly pre-exercise (as mentioned earlier) to promote greater fatburning in your body. A good-quality protein powder that doesn’t cause any silent inflammation (dairy sources like whey may cause inflammation in susceptible people) and doesn’t contain any artificial sweeteners is also worthwhile using to ensure you have an adequate protein intake each day. BCN’s ProBlend is a good option. Glucose disposal agents are also beneficial because they help to keep your blood sugar level stable, making it easier for your body to access and utilise fat as a fuel source. Cinnamon is an example of a powerful glucose disposal agent. It is contained BCN’s MultiSpice along with a range of other spices that can dramatically improve your health and general well being. Theoretically, there may also be some weight-loss benefit in using herbal antiinflammatory supplements, like turmeric. Since most people’s bodies are retaining fluid to some extent, primarily due to their dietary habits, assisting their body in getting rid of the excess fluid will help promote greater weight loss. In fact, there are numerous studies currently underway examining the relationship between turmeric and weight loss. The results of these studies are sure to be interesting. A great turmeric supplement is BCN’s Relieve Turmeric Forte. If you would like more information on how to lose fat effectively, get a copy of the book, Look Good Feel Great! It contains all the information you need in order to lose weight quickly and keep it off long term. It is available from the Body Concepts office for $29.95 plus $3.00 postage. Call (08) 9248 6904 to order your copy. fo
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Weight LOSS
Facts! Eating breakfast may prevent obesity in children Researchers from Greece have found that children who ate breakfast and had a high meal frequency were two times less likely to become overweight or obese compared to children who didn’t eat breakfast and/ or had fewer than 3 meals a day. onounsaturated fatty acids M in diet reduces liver fat in type 2 diabetes In a recent study published in Diabetes Care, researchers found that subjects who had a diet that contained monounsaturated fatty acids (like those found in olive oil) lost more fat from their liver compared to another group who consumed the same amount of calories but didn’t have the oil. This is simply another study that contradicts conventional wisdom that says we should cut all the fat from our diet.
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3 x 20-minute highintensity exercise sessions a week achieves significant weight loss! A study conducted earlier this year by researchers in Sydney found that as little as 3, 20-minute exercise session a week can achieve significant weight loss as long as the exercise being conducted is of a high-intensity. A high-fibre diet may assist weight loss Researchers in Denmark published a study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition with the results that further reinforce the benefits of a highfibre diet for weight loss. They noted a significant difference between the subjects and a control group when it came to satiety (feelings of fullness) and overall weight loss. ifting weights is a great way L to boost your metabolism Another study shows the positive impact lifting weights has on your resting metabolic rate. Researchers in the UK have examined the impact lifting weights has on the Excess Post-exercise Oxygen Consumption (EPOC) and found that it has two phases, an acute response (within 2 hours after exercise) and a prolonged (up to 48 hours) but reduced response. This means the metabolic rate is elevated for up to 2 days after completing the session. Furthermore, they found that an
increase in lean muscle mass contributes to a long-lasting increase in resting metabolic rate (RMR). Therefore, an increase in your metabolism as a result of weight training is a great way to assist your weight-loss efforts. fo
Product Reviews DigestEZE
The health of our gut plays such an important role when it comes to the health of our body. DigestEZE is a comprehensive formula that supports gastro-intestinal health. It contains a blend of ingredients that can provide you with relief from bloating, abdominal pain, cramping and the discomfort associated with medicallydiagnosed irritable bowel syndrome.
XLR8 Thermogenic
XLR8 Thermogenic is one of the most powerful thermogenics (fat burners) on the market today. It can help you burn off body fat and lose weight faster by: • Speeding up your metabolism • Boosting your energy level • Increasing the mobilisation of fat from the fat stores • Having a diuretic effect It also is one of the few fat burners on the market that supports adrenal function by containing the adaptogen, Rhodiola.
Nature’s Quest Shampoo • • • • • •
Free from Sulphates SLS and SLES Pure Essential Oils Affordable Mild foaming good cleaning ability Free from petro-chemicals Leaves hair and shiny, soft and manageable
Customers who have used this product have used it in conjunction with Nature’s Quest conditioner and have found improvement in their hair management.
New Formula
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 easy-to-use vege capsule, which means that taking a range of healthboosting spices every day is now easier than ever!
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, greattasting 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.
SuperFood Blend
Our bodies are constantly being bombarded by free radicals every day. The foods we eat, the water we drink and the air we breathe all contain free radicals or at least contain chemicals that generate free radicals in our body.
Antioxidants are free radical scavengers that go around the body and ‘mop up’ free radicals, preventing them from damaging body cells. BCN’s SuperFood Blend contains a concentrated blend of 19 powerful ‘Superfoods’ all carefully selected to provide your body with a wide range of antioxidants and phytonutrients (nutrients from plants).
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7 Ways to Boost Your Immune System This Winter
W
inter has long been associated with an increased incidence of colds and flus. In this article we will cover 7 ways to boost your immune system so you can reduce your risk of getting a cold and/ or flu this winter!
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Improve your diet What you eat on a regular basis plays a key role in your overall health and wellbeing. Therefore, in order to optimise your immune system and keep it strong you must eat well. This means you should make an effort to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats, nuts, seeds, unprocessed oils, legumes, whole grains, etc. These foods are high in the vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and phytonutrients (nutrients from plants) that your body needs in order to maintain a strong, healthy immune system. All of these foods can be obtained from your local IGA Supermarket. Protein is particularly important because it is used to make antibodies to fight bacteria and viruses. Another way to improve your diet is to moderate your alcohol intake.
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Sleep well Since your body goes through the processes of repair, recuperation, recovery and re-building when you’re sleeping at night, if you want to boost your immune system during winter to help fight off colds and flus, it is important that you have good quality sleep as much as possible. There are several ways to improve your sleeping habits, here’s just a few:
• Make your bedroom as dark as possible • Keep all electronic equipment at least several metres away from your body and turn off your electric blanket at the wall if you use one 22 www.focus-on.com.au
• E nsure you stay at a comfortable temperature during the night • Ensure your last meal at night is a high-protein, low-carb meal • Don’t eat anything several hours before bed • Try to go to bed a few hours before midnight • Minimise any external noise (perhaps use ear plugs if need be) • Consider taking a glycine supplement before bed (around 3,000mg has been shown to improve sleep quality)
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Exercise regularly Exercising regularly has been shown to have an overall positive impact on your immune system; it boosts white blood cell production. However, over-training, training too hard, too often or for too long, can have a negative impact on your immune system so it is important to moderate the amount of exercise you do.
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Wash your hands Even though this recommendation doesn’t boost your immune system directly, it can still help to reduce your chance of getting a cold or flu. Washing your hands several times a day can significantly decrease the amount of viruses on your hands, making it less likely that the viruses will get into your body.
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Take immune-boosting supplements There are a range of supplements that have have a positive impact on the immune system either directly or indirectly. Antioxidants from fruits, particularly berries, and vegetables, particularly garlic, onions and mushrooms, as well as herbs like, cloves, all possess bioactive compounds that have anti-microbial, anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. If you have difficultly consuming all of these foods on a regular basis it may be easier for you to obtain the immune-
enhancing benefits they offer by taking them in supplement form. For example, BCN’s SuperFood Blend contains extracts from 19 superfoods. BCN’s Hemogard contains a concentrated, powerful garlic extract and BCN’s MultiSpice contains cloves along with a range of other herbs that can support your immune system.
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Reduce your stress levels Stress has been shown to have a detrimental effect on the immune system The easiest ways to reduce the impact of stress on your body is to use breathing techniques, relaxation strategies or simply take natural stress-reducing herbs, like rhodiola, which is contained in BCN’s Rhodiola Advanced.
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Improve your gut function Over 70% of your immune system is located in your gut. This is essential since it is where so many foreign organisms have the opportunity to enter the body. If we eat certain foods that cause inflammation in the gut, it is easier for foreign substances to pass through the gut wall and enter the body. This places enormous stress on the immune system, weakening it and leaving the body more susceptible to being overcome by viruses that cause colds and flus. Therefore, eating a healthy diet and using supplements that aid gut function, like BCN’s DigestEZE and Gastro Forte AG can ensure that your gut functions well and foreign matter can’t enter the body and affect the immune system. fo
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 spice can be easily consumed every day because they are available in the MultiSpice easy-to-use vege capsules! BCN’s Multispice: ✔ Contains a combination of 5 ✔ Comes in an easy-to-use organic spices (turmeric, clove, vege capsule fennel, cinnamon, ginger) ✔ Is a convenient way to ✔ 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