Focus On Magazine, Edition 4, 2012

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focus AUSTRALIA’S GUIDE TO HEALTHIER LIVING!

Edition 4, 2012

Inflammation and

WEIGHT GAIN Healthy Adrenals and

Menopause PLUS: • Nutritional Deficiencies and Your Thyroid • Curcumin Benefits for YOU!

Low Carb Diets and

Weight Loss

Low Carb Diets &

Weight

LOSS

E

ven today there is still so much confusion surrounding the issue of carbohydrates and weight loss.

Many people who want to lose weight still wonder if they should cut all the fat from their diet and loadup on fat-free foods or follow one of the many low-carb diet books that line the shelves of bookstores everywhere!

In this article you will finally discover the truth about low-carb diets, what they are, how they work, who (if anyone) they are suitable for, what some of their drawbacks are, and if they are necessary to help support your weight-loss efforts!

What are low-carb diets?

The typical definition of low-carb diets is, a diet that contains a lower proportion of carbohydrates relative to conventional diets. This means that since conventional diets contain around 55-60% of its calories coming from carbohydrates, any diet that contains less than this amount is considered to be a low-carb diet.

Even the ‘Zone Diet’, which suggests a macronutrient ratio of 40:30:30 (carbohydrate: protein: fat) is often considered to be a low-carb diet.

Other people define a low-carb

diet as being a diet that contains less than 100 grams of carbohydrates per day.

Nevertheless, most people agree that a diet containing 50 grams of carbohydrates or less per day is a low-carb diet (the Atkins Diet’s Induction Phase recommends 20 grams of net carbs per day).

How do low-carb diets work?

Low-carb diets may help people lose weight through several mechanisms.

Firstly, by reducing your carbohydrate intake significantly you also reduce the amount of glycogen stored in your body.

Most people store around 400 grams of glycogen in their muscles and around 100 grams in their liver. Furthermore, for every gram of glycogen stored, an additional 2-3 grams of water is stored with it. Therefore, a reduction in stored glycogen and water means that a loss of up to 2 kilograms may also occur.

Also, low-carb diets reduce insulin secretion from the pancreas due to the low blood sugar level it promotes. Since insulin is a fat-storage hormone and also stops the body from mobilising and utilising fat as a fuel source, a reduction

The right type of low-carb diet includes the low-density carbohydrate sources such as, broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, capsicum, cucumber, carrots, onions, tomatoes, etc. of insulin may assist the body in burning more fat. It is important to note that a reduced insulin secretion may also be achieved by simply being aware of your carbohydrate sources.

By reducing your carbohydrate intake you tend to have more fat and protein in your diet. Since protein and to a lesser extent, fat, have far greater satiating effects compared to carbohydrate, you will feel much more satisfied after your meals.

The right type of low-carb diet includes the low-density carbohydrate www.focus-on.com.au

3

sources such as, broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, capsicum, cucumber, carrots, onions, tomatoes, etc. These foods are very low in carbohydrate but high in fibre, which means they also help you feel full after a meal. They also provide a range of health benefits.

What are the major drawbacks of a low-carb diet?

Since foods containing carbohydrates are everywhere, following a low-carb diet can be quite difficult because it limits the number of foods you can choose from. This means it is difficult to make a low-carb diet a long-term, sustainable approach to nutrition.

A low-carb diet requires more preparation simply because fewer foods are available from cafes, lunch bars and delis. As a result, this makes following a low-carb diet less accessible compared to a conventional diet.

Who, if anyone, are low-carb diets suitable for?

It appears that low-carb diets are beneficial for certain groups of people.

These groups include: • • •

Diabetics or pre-diabetics Women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) People who are sedentary

The first two groups, diabetics/ prediabetics and women with PCOS are both insulin resistant. This means that the insulin receptors on their body’s cell membranes are resistant to the action of insulin.

When they eat high-carbohydrate foods their blood sugar rises, resulting in a corresponding insulin release. Then, when the insulin tries to shuttle the carbohydrate into the cells, which occurs under normal circumstances, it is unable to do so because the cell are resistant to its action. A low-carb diet can help to reverse this situation.

Not only should people who are insulin resistant follow a low-carb diet, but they should also use glucose disposal agents (GDAs). These assist the body by ‘opening up’ the insulin receptors on body cells and by making them more sensitive to insulin.

4

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BCN’s MultiSpice contains cinnamon, ginger and turmeric, which have all been shown in clinical research to act as glucose disposal agents and help lower blood sugar levels.

People who are sedentary should also limit their carbohydrate intake simply because their bodies don’t need much fuel due to their inactivity. Since the body has a limited storage capacity for carbohydrate (as mentioned earlier), if a substantial amount of carbohydrate is consumed it is not likely to be burnt up and therefore will be stored as bodyfat.

Do you need to follow a low-carb diet?

If your goal is to lose bodyfat and you don’t fall into one of the previously mentioned categories, then it is not necessary to follow a lowcarb diet. However, it is important to be aware of your sources of carbohydrates (in order to keep insulin low) and reduce your carbohydrate intake slightly.

For example, you should aim to have 1-2 serves of the high-density carbohydrates (bread, pasta, rice cereals, etc.) each day; 2-3 serves of the medium-density carbohydrates (potatoes, pumpkin, peas, corn, milk, yoghurt, fruit, etc.) each day; and 4-6 serves of the low-density carbohydrates (broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, carrots, etc.) each day.

For a more complete list of carbohydrate sources, get as copy of ‘Look Good, Feel Great!’ from the Body Concepts office ($29.95 plus $3.00 postage). Ph: 08 9248 6904.

By consuming carbs in this way you will be having around 100 grams of carbohydrates a day. This is more than enough for the majority of people, is a long-term, sustainable approach to nutrition, and can still help you lose weight without having to follow a lowcarb diet.

In order to assist your weight-loss efforts even further you may want

to consider using a prebiotic fibre.

Arabinogalactans, which are contained in BCN’s Gastro Forte AG are a good example as are guar gum and pectin, which are both contained in BCN’s DigestEZE. These soluble fibres slow down the absorption of carbohydrates from any meals consumed as well as contributing to satiety (a feeling of fullness) themselves.

Increasing your protein intake is also beneficial because it helps to curb your appetite. As easy way to do this is to have a protein shake for your mid-morning and/ or mid-afternoon meals. Simply mix a scoop of BCN’s ProBlend Dairy Free in 100mls of almond milk along with 100150mls of cold, filtered water.

Finally, when it comes to losing weight and keeping it off, the ‘Golden Rule’ is to consume less energy (calories) each day than you burn off. Even though there are definite benefits to reducing your carbohydrate intake slightly to assist your weight-loss efforts, you still need to be mindful of your overall caloric intake as well. fo

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.auwww.focus-on.com.au or call 08 9248 6904 5

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CURCUMIN

BENEFITS FOR YOU! C urcumin, derived from the spice turmeric, has been shown to have profound benefits in improving health and treating a range of diseases associated with inflammation and degeneration.

Several studies have now confirmed that it has the potential to improve diseases such as osteoarthritis, digestive problems, eye diseases, skin disorders and conditions associated with poor blood circulation.

A recent human trial has also shown that it can prevent the development of diabetes in ‘pre-diabetic’ patients and research in Australia is currently underway investigating its ability to prevent dementia and treat depression.

The major problem with most curcumin products Most excitement around curcumin is derived from in vitro studies (studies on cells outside the body) which demonstrated dramatic effects in combatting many biochemical processes associated with a range of diseases.

However, this was soon met with frustration and disappointment after it was discovered that, in humans, standard curcumin was poorly absorbed through the gut. This proved to be a major barrier as curcumin needs to be absorbed into the bloodstream via the digestive tract to do most of its work.

A method to improve curcumin absorption, found!

Researchers therefore promptly searched for ways to improve the absorption of curcumin. After intensive research, scientists at Indena, a leading pharmaceutical and natural compound company in Italy, finally found a method to achieve this. Through a method known as Phytosome® technology, Indena was able to greatly increase the absorption of curcumin. This unique form of curcumin is named Meriva®, a highly absorbable, patented delivery form of curcumin utilising Indena’s proprietary Phytosome® technology.

Scientific studies prove Meriva’s® effectiveness Studies on Meriva® (contained in BCN’s InflammaCALM) have shown it has far superior absorption than standard curcumin thereby enhancing its potential effectiveness in treating disease. Also, because of its improved absorption, its benefits can be achieved through far lower dosages than standard curcumin.

For example, in a human study comparing the absorption of standard curcumin with Meriva®, participants consumed either Meriva® or standard curcumin and then had their blood collected over a 24-hour period[1].

A component of curcumin known as demethoxycurcumin, which has potent anti-

The researchers found that blood levels of curcumin were 27 to 31 times higher (depending on dosage) when taking curcumin from Meriva®, compared to consuming it from a standard curcumin compound! inflammatory properties was remarkably found to be 50 to 60 times higher in the blood. The researchers concluded that improved absorption underlies the potential of Meriva® to be clinically effective at doses significantly lower than unformulated curcuminoid mixtures.

This prompted researchers to investigate the ability of this patented curcumin to treat a range of medical conditions. So far studies have shown that Meriva® is effective in treating symptoms associated with osteoarthritis [2, 3], eye disease (central serous chorioretinopathy & chronic anterior uveitis)[4], and blood vessel disease associated with diabetes (diabetic microangiopathy)[5].

The effectiveness of Meriva® was studied in people suffering from osteoarthritis [3]. Patients were randomly divided into one of two groups. Participants in group 1 were supplemented with Meriva® twice daily AND also provided with standard www.focus-on.com.au

7

Standard Treatment and Meriva Group

Standard Treatment Group

346%

90% 67%

63%

59%

Percentage reduction in painkiller use

Percentage reduction in pain and stiffness

treatment. Those in group 2 received standard treatment ONLY. Standard treatment was based on best practice guidelines defined by the patient’s general practitioner.

After 3 months, outcomes in the two groups were compared. The results are presented in the table below, which show significant improvements for the Meriva® supplemented group in walking performance, painkiller use, and gastrointestinal complaints. These improvements were far greater than those achieved from standard treatment alone.

Standard treatment AND Meriva

Standard treatment

336%

57%

Decrease in painkiller use

63%

12%

Decrease in gastrointestinal complications

38%

15%

Increase in treadmill walking distance without pain

12%

12%

8%

A larger follow-up study[2] provided further confirmation for the benefits of Meriva® in the treatment of osteoarthritis.

In this 8-month study, participants taking Meriva® again experienced significantly greater improvements in the treadmill walking test and in reported levels of pain, mood and mobility (compared to people receiving standard treatment alone). In this study, blood samples were also collected to assess changes in inflammation over time. Again, significant reductions in inflammation were experienced in those taking Meriva®. Patients receiving standard treatment experienced no improvements in blood measures of inflammation. These results are summarised in the table/graphs above.

Percentage reduction in in digestive problems

Percentage increase in treadmill walking distance

Standard treatment AND Meriva

Standard treatment ONLY

346%

90%

59%

12%

216%

-2%

Decrease in inflammation (blood ESR)

25%

3%

Decrease in painkiller use

63%

8%

Decrease in digestive problems

67%

12%

Decrease in other medication use

42%

7%

Decrease in medical consultations costs

45%

3%

Treadmill walking distance without pain (meters) Reduction in stiffness, pain, & mobility Improvement in emotional & social function

Only use the best curcumin supplement!

With the interest in curcumin increasing dramatically over the last few years, it is important to consider the quality of curcumin supplements. Whilst curcumin has the potential to treat a range of health problems, not all curcumin products are the same.

No other curcumin/ turmeric product has had the same extensive research conducted on it like Meriva® has. [Meriva® is contained in BCN’s InflammaCALM – along with the potent health-enhancing effects of green tea].

Therefore, if you want to get the very best benefits offered by this amazing herb, especially if you suffer from some form of arthritis or other inflammatory condition, then BCN’s InflammaCALM should be your only choice! fo

References 1. Cuomo, J., et al., Comparative absorption of a standardized curcuminoid mixture and its lecithin formulation. Journal of Natural Products, 2011. 74(4): p. 664-9.

2. Belcaro, G., et al., Efficacy and safety of Meriva(R), a curcumin-phosphatidylcholine complex, during extended administration in osteoarthritis patients. Alternative Medicine Review, 2010. 15(4): p. 337-44.

3. Belcaro, G., et al., Product-evaluation registry of Meriva(R), a curcumin-phosphatidylcholine complex, for the complementary management of osteoarthritis. Panminerva medica, 2010. 52(2 Suppl 1): p. 55-62.

4. Allegri, P., A. Mastromarino, and P. Neri, Management of chronic anterior uveitis relapses: efficacy of oral phospholipidic curcumin treatment. Long-term follow-up. Clin Ophthalmol, 2010. 4: p. 1201-6.

5. Appendino, G., et al., Potential role of curcumin phytosome (Meriva) in controlling the evolution of diabetic microangiopathy. A pilot study. Panminerva medica, 2011. 53(3 Suppl 1): p. 43-9.

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Are YOU Suffering From the Pain of Arthritis?

If so, BCN’s InflammaCALM may help!

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

BCN’s InflammaCALM may help to: 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

27 Tim B e t te r A e s bso Th a n R e r b e d gula Cu r c u m r in

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

‘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

INFLAMMATION AND

WEIGHT

GAIN T

here is a growing body of research demonstrating the relationship between inflammation and weight gain, whereby a high degree of inflammation in the body results in weight gain. Therefore, finding ways to reduce inflammation should assist with weight loss.

However, it is important to keep in mind that weight gain is caused by a number of factors of which, inflammation may be just one.

Inflammation leads to weight gain because it causes fluid retention in the body as well as the effects it has on numerous systems in the body that affect metabolism (e.g., thyroid gland, sex hormones, stress hormones, etc.).

Even though the initial weight gain resulting directly from inflammation may not be fat, the long-term physiological consequences of inflammation may result in an increased likelihood of fat storage.

Here are some of the possible causes of inflammation in the body: • Gut Issues (digestive health, medications, genetic factors) • Dietary factors (diet quality, nutritional deficiencies) • Lifestyle Factors (stress, environmental toxins, physical activity, sleep quality) • Excess bodyfat Let’s examine each of these in more detail.

Gut Issues (digestive health, medications, genetic factors) Many people underestimate the importance of our gut when it comes to the overall health of our body and gut problems are a common cause of inflammation.

Certain foods or food additives may irritate the gut lining or cause an allergic response, resulting in inflammation.

Medications like antibiotics may upset the delicate balance of gut flora, resulting in inflammation.

Also, people with conditions such as Crohn’s disease or who have a genetic predisposition for other gut issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis, or leaky gut (intestinal permeability), are also likely to have some degree of inflammation in their body. www.focus-on.com.au 11

Dietary Factors (diet quality, nutritional deficiencies) The quality of your diet plays a huge role in the quality of your health as well as having a major impact on the degree of inflammation in your body.

Not only do certain foods cause an inflammatory response when they’re in the gut, but they may also cause more inflammation in the body when they enter the bloodstream.

Nutritional deficiencies also have an impact on the degree of inflammation in your body because specific nutrients, like selenium, zinc, vitamin C, B-vitamins, and glutamine, are required for optimum production of the body’s natural antioxidants.

Since oxidative stress (caused by excess free radicals) and inflammation are so closely related, ensuring your body’s natural antioxidant defences are functioning well is absolutely essential in reducing inflammation. Therefore, nutritional deficiencies result in impaired antioxidant production, leading to higher levels of free radical damage (a.k.a. oxidative stress) and inflammation. ifestyle Factors (stress, L environmental toxins, physical activity, sleep quality) There are a variety of lifestyle factors that can also have an impact on the degree of inflammation in your body.

For example, chronic stress, environmental toxins, lack of physical activity, and poor sleep quality all lead to increased free radical damage and therefore greater inflammation.

Excess bodyfat Bodyfat produces inflammatory cytokines (proteins that trigger the inflammatory response) in the body. These of course, cause inflammation, which lead to weight gain and further increases in bodyfat.

This, in turn, causes more inflammatory cytokines to be produced, which causes more inflammation, and so the vicious cycle continues. This makes weight loss extremely difficult.

Even though it may be difficult to know which one starts the process, bodyfat or inflammation, the fact is, it is a situation that continues to worsen over time if it is not addressed.

12 www.focus-on.com.au

Strategies to reduce inflammation and assist weight loss: + Minimise your intake of ‘irritant foods’, food additives and allergenic foods.

This means minimising your intake of dairy foods, foods containing gluten (wheat and wheat flour, rye, barley, spelt, semolina, couscous, and durum flour), processed foods, and potentially-allergenic foods (peanuts, soy, shellfish, and eggs).

+ Eat more natural, whole foods.

These include foods like fruits, vegetables, sprouts, seeds, some nuts, lean meats and unprocessed oils. These are all available from your local IGA Supermarket and contain high levels of antioxidants.

As mentioned previously, since inflammation and oxidative stress are closely related, if you’re able to reduce the degree of oxidation in your body you can also reduce the degree of inflammation. This is why eating foods high in antioxidants is so important. You may also want to consider using an antioxidant supplement, like BCN’s SuperFood Blend, to supplement your diet and increase your intake of antioxidants.

+ Use supplements to reduce gut inflammation and improve its functioning.

There are certain supplements on the market that help to soothe the gut lining, reduce inflammation in the gut, assist with repairing the gut wall, and improve its functioning. Some of the best products on the market for providing these benefits are BCN’s DigestEZE and Gastro Forte AG.

+ Reduce your stress levels.

Since stress is related to inflammation, finding ways to reduce your stress levels can be enormously beneficial. Relaxation techniques, meditation, good quality sleep and using stress-relieving herbs, like Rhodiola, which is contained in BCN’s Rhodiola Advanced, can all help.

+ Use anti-inflammatory supplements.

Some of the best anti-inflammatory supplements on the market include, fish oil, glucosamine, green tea and turmeric. There is even clinical research for fish oil and turmeric demonstrating direct weight-loss benefits!

Glucosamine and turmeric are both found in BCN’s DigestEZE. Turmeric is also found in BCN’s Relieve Turmeric Forte and BCN’s InflammaCALM, which also contains a green tea extract.

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

Health Facts!

Conclusive proof that exercise prevents osteoporosis Last year researchers in Scotland conducted a meta-analysis (a review of a range of research studies) and found that exercise, particularly resistance exercise, has the potential to be a safe and effective way to prevent bone loss in post-menopausal women.

Curcumin reduces development of type 2 diabetes A recent study published in the journal Diabetes Care has found that using curcumin over a period of 9 months significantly lowered the number of prediabetic people who developed diabetes.

The study also found that treatment with curcumin improves the overall functioning of the beta cells in the pancreas (the cells responsible for producing insulin).

Garlic prevents LDL cholesterol oxidation A study published in the journal Atherosclerosis has found that consuming a garlic supplement reduces the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, and oxidised LDL cholesterol is a major risk factor for plaque formation and heart disease.

14 www.focus-on.com.au

Metabolic syndrome may be treated by exercise and an increased protein intake French researchers have found that metabolic syndrome may be improved when exercise is performed in conjunction with a higher protein intake.

A person with metabolic syndrome is characterised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as being someone with diabetic symptoms and any two of the following: blood pressure greater than 140/90, triglycerides greater than 1.695 mmol/L, central obesity, microalbuminuria (when the kidney leaks small amounts of albumin into the urine).

Compound in Rhodiola may improve skin A study published in Biomedical and Environmental Sciences has demonstrated that one of the active ingredients derived from the herb rhodiola, called salidroside, has the effect of preserving the skin cells’ ability to reproduce.

It has also been shown to reduce Advanced Glycation End products (AGEs), which are a marker for ageing. 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

Healthy Adrenals and

D

Menopause

uring a woman’s life the adrenal glands play an important role with regards to hormone production. They are the only source of testosterone (a woman’s body does produce small amounts of testosterone), and also contribute to the production of female sex hormones, oestrogen and progesterone.

The adrenal glands’ importance when it comes to sex hormone production become obvious when a woman’s body experiences a high level of stress.

Since the adrenals also produce the stress hormone, cortisol, which comes from pregnenolone, the same basic

compound that all the sex hormones come from, high stress often results in reduced sex hormone production. This causes menstrual problems as well as a range of other unpleasant physical and psychological symptoms.

Furthermore, women who are diagnosed with adrenal fatigue, resulting from chronic (long-term) stress, also tend to experience more severe symptoms of pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS).

The importance of the adrenal glands becomes even more pronounced during the transition into menopause as well as after menopause.

Since the ovaries begin to decrease

The adrenal glands’ importance when it comes to sex hormone production become obvious when a woman’s body experiences a high level of stress. their output of the female hormones during the transition into menopause, the adrenal glands are required to increase their production of these hormones to make up for the ovaries’ decreasing hormonal contributions. This is essential for the process of menopause to proceed as smoothly as possible. www.focus-on.com.au 17

Peri-menopausal (menopause transition) and menopausal women who experience adrenal fatigue tend to be more likely to suffer with the symptoms commonly associated with peri-menopause simply because their adrenal glands are unable to cope with the increased demand for sex hormone production. Some of the symptoms include: • Hot flushes • Breast tenderness • Decreased sex drive

• Irregular periods • Fatigue • Mood swings

• Sleep difficulties • Severe pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS)

Therefore, it simply makes sense that peri-menopausal and menopausal women who experience these symptoms severely and who also have a lot of stress in their lives are very likely to suffer with adrenal fatigue.

This means that finding ways to reduce the level of stress in their lives, reduce the impact stress has on their body, and to nourish and support their adrenal glands is absolutely essential.

Here are some of the most effective ways to help support normal, healthy adrenal function:

Engage in pleasurable activities This may include spending time with friends and family, enjoying a hobby, exercising, shopping, going out for dinner, going to the movies, etc. These all help to reduce stress levels.

Use relaxation techniques There are plenty of books, CDs, and information online that explains the processes you can go through to relax your body and decrease your stress levels.

Meditate Meditation is a proven way to reduce stress by increasing the production of alpha waves in your brain.

Practise breathing exercises Since your breathing, heart rate and adrenal output are all intimately related, consciously regulating your breathing by breathing deeply and slowly can go a long way towards reducing the stress levels in your body.

Use stress-relieving/adrenal-nourishing herbs, like rhodiola rosea.

Rhodiola rosea is an ‘adaptogenic herb’, which means it increases the body’s resistance to stress and has a normalising influence on physiology.

Rhodiola contains a number of biologicallyactive compounds that offer a range of health benefits, particularly when it comes to stress. BCN’s Rhodiola Advanced contains standardised levels of these active ingredients that are proven to be effective at reducing the impact stress has on the body. By doing so, it may be useful in normalising the menstrual cycle in women and making the transition into menopause more manageable. fo

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CHC41865-03/11

Weight LOSS

TIPS!

Carbohydrates are a major contributor to obesity A study published in the journal Medical Hypotheses several years ago found that chronic hyperinsulinemia (high levels of insulin) resulting from regular, excessive intake of carbohydrates leads to hunger, cravings, insulin resistance, weight gain and an inability to lose weight.

It stated that moderating carbohydrate intake coupled with appropriate behaviour modification, i.e. exercise, can successfully reduce cravings, hunger and body weight.

Low carbohydrate diets linked to psychological problems A study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine has found that a group who followed a low-carbohydrate diet for 12 months scored higher in measures of depression and anxiety compared to another group who ate a moderatecarbohydrate diet. Weight loss was the same in both groups!

Weights and cardio

Antidepressants cause weight gain A study published in the Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences found that many types of antidepressant medications cause weight gain resulting from an increase in appetite and carbohydrate cravings.

combination is the most effective for weight loss A recent study published in the BioMed Central Public Health journal has found that a combination of weight training and cardio-respiratory (aerobic) exercise helped overweight and obese patients improve their cardiovascular risk profile, lose weight (fat) and increase their fitness. The combination of the two forms of exercise demonstrated superior results compared to either form of exercise performed in isolation.

Sleep deprivation leads to weight gain Researchers from the University of Surrey in the UK have found that even minor reductions in sleep duration lead to detrimental changes in insulin sensitivity, body weight and other metabolic parameters.

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Product Reviews 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!

SuperFood Blend

New Our bodies are constantly being Formula 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).

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.

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.

ProBlend Dairy-Free

Nature’s Quest Shampoo & Conditioner • • • • • •

Free from Sulphates SLS and SLES Pure Essential Oils Affordable Mild foaming good cleaning ability Free from petro chemicals Leaves and shiny, soft and manageable

Customers who have used this product have used it in conjunction with Nature’s Quest conditioners have found improvement their hair management.

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.

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Nutritional Deficiencies

and Your Thyroid

T

he thyroid gland is a master regulatory gland. It controls the functioning and growth of many tissues in the human body. Furthermore, its function is intimately related to other organs and systems of the body as well, including the nervous system, immune system, and adrenal glands. Since it plays such an important role it requires a wide range of nutrients.

Unfortunately though, many people these days are suffering with an underactive thyroid simply because they aren’t able to get all the nutrients from their diet that their thyroid gland requires.

Why you may be deficient There are several reason why you may not be getting all the nutrients your body needs in order to optimise your thyroid gland’s functioning. These include: poor diet, unstable blood sugar levels, hormone imbalances, inflammation, environmental toxins, heavy metals, stress, gut problems, lifestyle factors, etc.

Of course, all of these areas need to be addressed if proper thyroid function is desired. However, these are beyond the scope of this article. If you would like more information on how to address these issues, please email: admin@ bodyconcepts.com.au and you will be sent a range of articles that will provide you with this information.

There are several steps you can take to ensure that you optimise your thyroid gland’s functioning. The most important step is to simply provide your thyroid gland with all the nutrients it requires.

There are many pathways involved in thyroid hormone production and each pathway requires a range of nutrients.

Even if one of these nutrients is lacking in your body your thyroid gland won’t function as well as it should.

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Thyroid hormone production In order to produce thyroid hormones in the thyroid gland your body primarily requires tyrosine and iodine. Tyrosine is a non-essential amino acid, which means it may be manufactured from other amino acids in the body. Iodine, on the other hand, is a mineral that is said to be deficient in up to three quarters of the population!

There are a number of reasons why so many people may be deficient in this mineral. Firstly, iodine is a relatively rare element on the land but is abundant in the oceans. Therefore, people who rarely consume seafood or sea vegetables are highly likely to be deficient in iodine.

Furthermore, people are generally consuming less salt these days in order to help lower their blood pressure and reduce their risk of heart disease.

Unfortunately though, by doing so they are also reducing their iodine intake since iodised salt was the major source of iodine in many parts of the world. To make matters worse, salt manufacturers are using much less iodine when making the salt compared to what they used to!

Environmental toxins and chemicals have also played a role in limiting iodine absorption and utilisation by the body, particularly the halides such as chlorine and bromine, which have become ubiquitous in society today.

Conversion of T4 into T3 T3 (tri-iodothyronine) is the ‘active’ thyroid hormone whilst T4 (thyroxine) is the ‘inactive’ form. Most of the thyroid hormones produced by the thyroid gland is T4 (approximately 80%) with approximately 20% being T3.

Then, as the T4 circulates around the body it may be converted into T3 as required. This occurs primarily in the liver and kidneys. In order for this

process to occur efficiently the body requires selenium, iron, magnesium, zinc, vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, folate and vitamin C. Deficiencies in any of these nutrients will negatively affect this process and may also result in more T4 being converted into rT3 (reverse T3), which has the effect of blocking T3 receptors on cell membranes!

How to provide your body with the ‘thyroid nutrients’ One of the best ways to ensure you obtain all of the essential nutrients you require in order to optimise your thyroid function is to do the following: • Eat organic food where possible.

• Eat more alkalising foods (fruits, vegetables, herbs, unrefined oils, etc.)

• Consume slightly more protein (BCN’s ProBlend Dairy Free is an easy way to increase your protein intake).

• Reduce your intake of gluten-containing foods, i.e. wheat and wheat flour, rye, spelt, semolina, couscous and durum flour (because they block the absorption of certain nutrients like B12).

• Avoid eating excessive amounts of goitrogenic foods in their raw state, i.e. peanuts, cabbage, kale, sweet potatoes, soy beans, kelp, broccoli, brussel sprouts, and turnips (because they inhibit the uptake of iodine).

• Supplement your diet with the essential nutrients (BCN’s Thyron is specifically designed to provide your body with all of the required nutrients for optimising your thyroid’s functioning). FO

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