Focus On Magazine, Edition 1, 2012

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focus AUSTRALIA’S GUIDE TO HEALTHIER LIVING!

Edition 1, 2012

Is Your Gut Making You

FAT? Your Body &

STRESS PLUS: • Do You Have a Leaky Gut? • Top 5 Healthy Herbs

Alternative Thyroid Treatments

Lose the Festive Fat

FAST!

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Lose the

festive fat

FAST!

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uring the festive season we all tend to put on weight. With so many social events that involve eating and drinking in addition to the fact that our exercise routines get put on hold, it’s no wonder why the festive weight-gain is almost inevitable!

Nevertheless, once the new year rolls around and we get back to normality, it’s a good time to detoxify our body and lose the extra weight that we’ve accumulated over the break.

The best way to do this is by following a fairly strict ‘detox diet’ for 2 weeks, performing about 30 minutes of exercise every day and taking a range of supplements to assist your body with the whole process.

A detox diet is worthwhile doing at least once a year in order to rid your body of the excess toxins that may have accumulated.

These toxins are stored in our fat cells.

Keep in mind that the detox diet is not something that is considered to be a long term, sustainable approach to nutrition. However, it will help you get rid of the excess fluid and fat that you have likely accumulated over the festive season. It will also give you a ‘jump-

start’ to eating healthier, which may then be carried on for the long term.

The primary mechanism through which a detox diet works is to improve the functioning of the liver (the main detox organ in the body), the kidneys and the gut.

By doing so your whole body will function better and you will lose weight quickly.

A detox diet is worthwhile doing at least once a year in order to rid your body of the excess toxins that may have accumulated. These toxins are stored in our fat cells and come from the food, water and air that enters our body.

They may include: antibiotics and hormones in food, pesticides, chemicals from food packaging, household cleaners, food additives, detergents, heavy metals, pollutants, drugs and cigarette smoke.

It is thought that this build up may lead to disease, impaired immune function, hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, a poor metabolism, tiredness, headaches, fatigue and muscle pain. Therefore, an occasional detox is a good idea for improving health and assisting weight loss.

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There are a range of foods that must be avoided during the 2-week detox as well as a range of foods that must be included.

Here are the foods you will need to eliminate from your diet for the next 2 weeks: Foods to remove from your diet: • All wheat and wheat-based products (pasta, bread, baked goods, etc.)

• All dairy products • Red meat • Pork • All cereals (except oats or natural muesli) • Alcohol • Caffeine (except green tea and XLR8 Thermogenic) • Artificial sweeteners (diet drinks, chewing gum, protein shakes, etc.)

• Sugar and sugar-containing products (including sauces) • Added salt (it is allowed only in the spices and seasonings you use when cooking) • Roasted and/ or salted nuts (raw only) Now you might be thinking, ‘What’s left for me to eat?’

There is actually quite a lot. Here are the foods you can eat: Foods to include in your diet: • Fruits and vegetables (particularly green leafy vegetables, garlic and onions) • Free-range eggs • Free-range chicken • Brown rice • All fish • Oats and natural muesli • Rice milk • Green tea • All spices • Raw nuts • Beans (not canned, only beans that require soaking) See the nutritional plan for some meal options Perform at least 30 minutes of exercise every day In addition to following the detox diet you also need to exercise for at least 30 minutes every day. Any type of exercise is fine, however, make sure you increase 4

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your heart rate and breathing rate and you start sweating in a short period of time.

If these 3 physiological changes don’t occur then you’re not exercising but rather simply being active. You must be willing to increase the intensity of your daily exercise session if you want to gain the benefits it offers.

Take all the supplements as recommended The recommended supplements are designed to assist your body with the detox process. They are able to do this via several mechanisms.

• • • • •

Getting rid of excess fluid from your body Speeding up your metabolism Reducing the inflammation in your body and in particular, your gut Providing your body with essential nutrients Scavenging the free radicals in your body to reduce their impact

If you would like to find out more strategies to assist your weight-loss efforts, please visit: www.quick-weightloss-principles.com fo

Nutritional Plan & Supplements BREAKFAST: Option 1: • 30g natural muesli or 20g oats • 1 tablespoon of raw mixed nuts • 2 teaspoons of psyllium husks • 150 - 200mls of rice milk • 1 cup of green tea (optional) Option 2: • 2 whole eggs • ½ onion (chopped up) • ½ tomato (chopped up) - prepare as an omelette • 1 slice of wheat-free bread (toasted, no butter or margarine) • 1 cup of green tea (optional) With your breakfast take the following supplements: • 1 XLR8 Thermogenic capsule (or take it before a morning exercise session) • 1 GI Factor capsule • 2-3 fish oil capsules (or equivalent liquid) • 1 MultiBoost multivitamin/ mineral tablet • 1 Relieve tablet • 1 teaspoon of DigestEZE • 1 teaspoon of Super 7 Blend (mixed in juice or water) or 2 Super 7 Blend capsules MID-MORNING: Option 1: • 1 piece of fruit • 12 almonds Option 2: • 1 small tin of flavoured tuna LUNCH: Option 1: • 6-8 pieces of salmon sushi

Option 2: Chicken salad (made with the following ingredients): • 100-150 grams cooked and diced chicken breast (this will need to be prepared in advance and is about the size of a deck of cards) • 50g English Spinach or chopped lettuce • 4-5 cherry or grape tomatoes (sliced) • ½ Lebanese cucumber (diced) • 2 sun-dried tomato slices (chopped) • 3 green olives (sliced length-wise) • ½ tablespoons of cashew nuts • ½ tablespoon of sunflower seeds • ½ tablespoon of pumpkin seeds • ¼ cup of seedless grapes With your lunch take the following supplements: • 1 XLR8 Thermogenic capsule (or take it before an afternoon exercise session) • 1 GI Factor capsule MID-AFTERNOON: • Same as mid-morning DINNER: Option 1: • 200g salmon steak (cooked with lemon juice) • 150g pumpkin • 100g sweet potato • 50g broccoli (Lightly steam the vegetables) Option 2: • 150g sliced chicken breast (grilled with seasoning of your choice) • 100g potato • 50g sweet corn • 50g peas or green beans (Lightly steam the vegetables)

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The top 5 healthy

herbs & Foods FOR YOU!

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here are many herbs and foods that offer a wide range of health benefits. As a result, they are worthwhile adding to your diet on a daily basis. In this article we will review the top 5 herbs and foods that you should consider using regularly and cover some of the health benefits they offer.

Here are the top 5: • • • • •

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Turmeric Garlic Rhodiola Resveratrol Pomegranate

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Turmeric

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is an Indian spice that gives curry powder its distinctive yellow colour. It has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine as a treatment for inflammatory conditions in the body.

Curcumin, the main active ingredient in turmeric, provides virtually all of the health benefits of turmeric, has been shown to exhibit antioxidant, antiinflammatory, anti-septic, anti-malarial, analgesic, insect-repelling, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anticancer activities. It therefore has potential against various malignant diseases, diabetes, allergies, arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, and other chronic illnesses.

However, since turmeric isn’t well absorbed into the body and because most people don’t consume it every day, it may be worthwhile using a supplemental form of turmeric instead.

BCN’s Relieve Turmeric Forte contains a patented form of turmeric

that is highly absorbable. It has even been shown to get absorbed through cell membranes, something that turmeric alone cannot do.

Garlic

Garlic is a well-known vegetable (herb) that belongs to the Allium family, a class of bulb-shaped plants, which also includes onions, chives, leeks, and scallions.

It is native to central Asia and has long been a staple in the Mediterranean region, as well as a frequent seasoning in Asia, Africa, and Europe.

Garlic has been used throughout history not only as a culinary spice but also for its medicinal purposes. The key ingredients in garlic are the sulphur-based compounds, which are known to have a range of beneficial effects in the body.

These are as follows: cardiovascular benefits, reduces blood pressure, stabilises blood sugar, fights colds and flus, demonstrates anti-cancer effects, has liver-protective properties, enhances the body’s detoxification processes, has anti-inflammatory effects, acts as an

antioxidant, has anti-microbial, anti-fungal and antiparasitic effects.

Since eating garlic in adequate amounts every day is not an option for most people due to the odour, a garlic supplement may be the best option.

Unfortunately though, not all garlic supplements are the same! In fact, the manufacturing and extraction processes used to obtain the active ingredients must be very specific in order to ensure adequate levels of the active ingredients are obtained.

BCN’s HemoGard is a potent liquid capsule supplement that contains Liporol®, a highly active liquid concentrate of fresh garlic bulb extract in a base of organic extra virgin olive oil. The extraction techniques used for preparing HemoGard ensures that there is no oxidation occurring or excessive heat being used. This guarantees maximum purity and potency and therefore ensures your body gets all the health benefits of garlic.

Rhodiola

Rhodiola rosea is a plant grows in the crevices of mountain rocks and on the sea cliffs in the Arctic regions of Europe, Asia (mainly in Siberia) and North America.

It contains a range of biologically active substances including organic acids, flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic glycosides.

Rhodiola offers a range of therapeutic benefits including: increasing neurotransmitter levels, reducing the stress response, exhibiting cardioprotective effects and providing antioxidant properties.

Here are some of the conditions that have been shown to benefit from Rhodiola: amenorrhoea, asthenia (weakness), cancer, colds, depression, fatigue, headaches, hypertension, insomnia, periodontal disease, and sexual dysfunction in males.

The easiest way to obtain Rhodiola is through supplementation and it is essential that the product is standardised and contains therapeutic dosages of the active ingredients. BCN’s Rhodiola Advanced contains the exact amount of active ingredients that have been used in scientific research to demonstrate the health benefits this amazing herb offers.

Resveratrol

Resveratrol is a bio-active compound found in the skins of red grapes and other fruits. It has been shown in various animal and human studies to have a range of health benefits.

These include: potential life extension, may assist in cancer prevention, boosts endurance, demonstrates neuroprotective effects, has anti-inflammatory properties, cardioprotective effects, anti-diabetic effects, anti-viral effects and improves mitochondrial function.

There are several Resveratrol supplements available on the market that are worthwhile considering.

The pomegranate contains many beneficial compounds including, ellagic acid, phytoestrogens and various types of polyphenols.

Here are some of the health benefits it offers: decreases prostate cancer risk, prolongs the effects of nitric oxide in the body (which has vasodilating effects), decreases osteoarthritis risk, reduces brain injury risk in babies, reduces cancer formation and growth, has anti-viral properties, improves blood lipid profiles in people with diabetes, reduces cardiovascular disease risk, helps overcome depression, and may improve bone mineral density.

Pomegranate juice is very popular but one of the major drawbacks of any juice is the fact that it is a concentrated form of the liquid and therefore gives the user excess calories and fructose (fruit sugar). This of couse may lead to rapid weight gain.

A far better option is to use a powdered extract such as the one contained in Super 7 Blend. It provides a concentrated source of the active ingredients, which provide the all the health benefits of pomegranate juice without the excess calories or sugar. It also provides these health benefits along with a range of other benefits from the other ‘Superfoods’ contained in the product.

If you want to maximise your health, decrease your risk of disease and improve your body’s overall functioning, then you may want to consider using some or all of the products listed here. fo

Pomegranate

The pomegranate fruit is native to the Middle East and has been cultivated for thousands of years in Iran, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia and the Mediterranean regions. It is often made into juice, jam, jelly, molasses and even pomegranate wine. www.focus-on.com.au

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The Best Alternative

Thyroid Treatments

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here are many safe and effective ways to overcome most thyroid problems. Rather than simply medicating people, which is the conventional approach, there are other options available.

Here are some of the alternative thyroid treatments you might like to try:

Improve Your Nutritional Habits Your nutritional habits should be the first place you consider making some changes if you are suffering from low thyroid symptoms (see Table 1). What you eat on a regular basis determines whether or not you provide your body with all the nutrients it needs to produce the thyroid hormones.

In particular the minerals iodine and selenium in addition to the amino acid tyrosine are nutrients you must make sure are present in the foods you eat in order to ensure optimum thyroid functioning.

If you regularly consume nutrientsparse foods (junk foods) or drink (alcohol) excessively, then it is highly likely that your body is, or will become, deficient in the various nutrients it requires to ensure optimum thyroid function.

Here are the foods you should include in your diet on a regular basis to support your thyroid gland: fish, meat, seafood, sea salt, kelp, seaweed, iodised salt, legumes, brazil nuts, shellfish, sunflower seeds, whole

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grains and dairy foods.

Reduce Your Stress Levels

High stress levels induce the release of a hormone called cortisol from the adrenal glands. These glands sit on top of the kidneys. High levels of cortisol impairs the conversion of T4 into T3. T4 (thyroxine) is considered to be the ‘inactive’ thyroid hormone, whilst T3 (tri-iodothyronine) is the ‘active’ form.

As a result, low T3 levels in your body means a depressed metabolism. To make matters worse, T4 may get converted into rT3 (reverse T3), which blocks the T3 receptors on cell membranes. This slows your metabolism even further! Reverse T3 (rT3) also inhibits the conversion of T4 into T3, again, decreasing your metabolism.

In order to reduce stress levels in your body and the impact cortisol has, it is essential that you incorporate stress management techniques like, meditation, yoga and perhaps even psychological counselling in a group format or individually. Each of these techniques are effective at lowering cortisol production and therefore improving thyroid function.

Reducing stress may also involve improving your sleeping habits and

What you eat on a regular basis determines whether or not you provide your body with all the nutrients it needs to produce the thyroid hormones. engaging in enjoyable activities, perhaps with family and friends.

You may also like to consider using a herbal supplement to help your body deal with stress more effectively. The herb is called ‘Rhodiola’ and is classed as an ‘Adaptogen’, which means it helps your body adapt to stress making it more resistant to its effects.

Rhodiola has also been shown to nourish and support the adrenal glands.

If stress is a major issue for you then it is strongly recommended that you use a Rhodiola supplement. Also, the Rhodiola supplement you choose must be standardised because this ensures you get maximum potency and effectiveness. BCN’s Rhodiola Advanced is one of the very best on the market.

Optimise Adrenal Function

High cortisol levels not only inhibit the conversion of T4 into T3 and increase the production of rT3 but chronically high cortisol levels lead to a condition known as, ‘adrenal fatigue’.

If this occurs, cortisol levels in the body may drop substantially. Whilst this may seem like a good thing, it is actually bad because it causes thyroid problems of a different nature.

Low cortisol reduces the number of T3 receptors in addition to reducing the transport of T3 within the cell.

Therefore, it is essential that cortisol levels are kept within an optimal range. If you have experienced chronic (long term) stress, then it is highly likely that you may have some degree of adrenal fatigue and using a product, like Rhodiola Advanced, will be beneficial because of its adrenalsupport effects.

Use Thyroid-Support Supplements

If you have any of the sub-optimal thyroid function symptoms (see Table 1), using a thyroid-support supplement, like Thyron, may be beneficial. It contains all the essential nutrients required for optimum thyroid hormone production and conversion of the inactive form into the active form. It also contains a range of adaptogens including, rhodiola, withania and siberian ginseng.

Here’s a list of all the nutrients required for optimum thyroid hormone production and conversion: iodine, selenium, tyrosine, zinc, vitamin C, vitamin E and various B vitamins.

Consider Chelation Therapy

If you’re suffering with any of the symptoms of sub-optimal thyroid function (see Table 1.), then it is worthwhile getting a hair mineral analysis done to see if you have a problem with the presence of heavy metals in your body or if you have mineral deficiencies.

Even though a hair mineral analysis is not the most accurate way to measure levels of heavy metals and other minerals in your body, it can give you an indication.

High levels of heavy metals in your body, such as mercury and lead, cause a whole range of health problems including, thyroid problems. As a result, chelation

therapy becomes necessary. This involves chelating or ‘clawing’ the heavy metals out of your body through the use of specific supplements. Depending on the amount present, the process may take several months or years to get the levels of heavy metals down to within ‘acceptable’ ranges.

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Consider the Correct Use of Thyroid Medication

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Even though the use of thyroid medication is not considered one of the alternative thyroid treatments, it may be used in an alternative way from the conventional approach used by most doctors.

The major problem with using thyroid medication long term is that it simply shuts down your body’s natural production of thyroid hormones. This is certainly not the best way to deal with thyroid problems but tends to be the most common approach.

The way to use thyroid medication as an alternative treatment is to simply use it for a short period of time in order to ‘normalise’ your thyroid hormone levels.

There are so many benefits to ensuring your thyroid gland functions normally and your thyroid hormones remain within normal ranges. Not only will they ensure good overall health and body functioning but they will also ensure that your weight-loss efforts become much easier! fo *Before using any alternative thyroid treatment, check with your doctor first.

Symptoms of Sub-Optimal Thyroid Function

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“Normal” thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) results Weight gain / inability to lose weight Fatigue Poor eyebrow growth, especially the outer third of the eyebrows Menstrual abnormalities Cold hands and feet Constipation Depression Dry skin Hair loss Hoarseness Poor concentration Nervousness Elevated cholesterol Brittle nails Muscle cramps Muscle weakness Poor memory Puffy eyes Throat pain Low basal body temperature Irritability

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Are You Suffering from a

Leaky Gut?

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eaky gut syndrome (technically known as intestinal hyperpermeability) is a surprisingly common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is poorly recognised and continues to be a controversial topic in mainstream medicine despite the fact that there are numerous studies showing that the condition does exist and can lead to a whole range of symptoms.

If you are suffering from some of the symptoms below then it is possible that you have a leaky gut.

Symptoms of Leaky Gut Syndrome: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Fatigue Irritability Hyperactivity Lethargy Mood swings Muscle or joint pain Poor concentration Memory difficulties Sleep disturbances Food and chemical hypersensitivities Bloating Flatulence Abdominal discomfort

In the intestinal tract, villi and microvilli (finger like projections lining the intestinal tract) serve as a point of absorption for nutrients such as glucose, vitamins, minerals and amino acids.

Leaky gut syndrome causes the intestinal lining to become inflamed and the microvilli become damaged or altered.

The damaged microvilli are then unable to produce the necessary enzymes and secretions that are essential for healthy digestion and absorption.

Leaky gut is basically a condition 10 www.focus-on.com.au

that occurs when inflammation in the gut leads to ‘pores’ lining the digestive tract to remain open for too long. The cells along our digestive tract also serve to form a protective, strong and sturdy structure, which prevent large molecules from passing through. However, when the gut becomes inflamed this lining becomes ‘leaky’ allowing larger molecules to seep into the bloodstream which are then transported to the liver. Because these molecules are considered ‘foreign’ to our body it provokes the immune system to produce antibodies to attack them. The liver also becomes overwhelmed because of the increased workload required to detoxify the body from these foreign objects. This is where the large array of symptoms of leaky gut results from. Leaky gut syndrome has also been associated with a number of conditions including: • Attention deficit disorder • Autism • Rheumatoid arthritis • Chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia • Skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis • Food allergies and intolerances • Inflammatory bowel disease/ syndrome • Mental health problems such as depression, anxiety and even schizophrenia.

How Leaky Gut Occurs Leaky gut syndrome can be caused by a large number of factors and that it why it is so common. Given our changing lifestyle and dietary habits, it unfortunately seems that the problem will only get worse. Our diet is extremely important as anything that we consume on a regular basis that can inflame out gut can lead to a leaky gut. Digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome,

coeliac disease, food allergies, gut infections and dysbiosis (imbalanced in digestive flora/bacteria) are also common causes.

Certain drugs and medications (especially non-steroidal anti-inflammatories and antibiotics), excess alcohol consumption, high stress and even aging can also cause our gut to become leaky.

How to Heal a Leaky Gut The key to healing a leaky gut is to improve your diet. Avoid foods that you are allergic or intolerant to (common foods include wheat, gluten, eggs, dairy products, soy and nuts). Consume more fruits, vegetables and herbs and make sure you thoroughly chew your food. It is also important that you ensure that your gut has good balance of healthy bacteria, so taking a high-quality probiotic, or better still, a prebiotic (food for our healthy bacteria) such as BCN’s Gastro Forte AG can be really helpful. There are also a number of herbs and other nutrients that can soothe and heal a leaky gut like turmeric, glutamine, aloe vera, peppermint, glucosamine HCL, slippery elm and quercetin. These are all contained in BCN’s DigestEZE. So, if you are suffering from many symptoms of a leaky gut be sure to take proactive steps to improve and restore your gut health. Our gut is crucially important for our overall well-being so don’t neglect it. fo

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

If so, BCN’s DigestEZE may help!

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

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 * IBS must be medically diagnosed

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 690411

CHC42143-08/11

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.

How Your Body Deals With

Stress W

RESISTANCE TO STRESS

e all experience an enormous amount of stress in our lives these days. Physical, mental, financial, work and relationship stresses all have an impact on our health and our ability to function at optimum levels.

Every time we experience some form of stress our body responds in exactly the same way. The stress response was first identified back in the mid 1900’s by Hans Selye, an endocrinologist studying stress.

He developed a model of stress called, ‘General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS).’

From the model he demonstrated that, under normal conditions, the body is able to use its homeostatic mechanism (balancing system) to counter the effects of various stresses. However, if not given time to recuperate, this balancing system can eventually become overwhelmed. The body becomes unable to rebalance itself and can lead to either a hyperactive (too much) or hypoactive (too little) stress response. Hans Selye divided the GAS into 3 phases:

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Alarm

(1) ALARM PHASE (FIGHT OR FLIGHT).

The alarm phase of the GAS occurs when a stress is first encountered. This alarm, often called the ‘fight or flight’ response, activates the sympathetic nervous system.

From a hormonal perspective, there is an increase in release of cortisol and adrenalin from the adrenal glands.

This response is a normal defence mechanism that is triggered when the body is threatened. It makes the heart beat faster to provide blood to the muscles and brain. The breathing rate also increases to supply extra oxygen to the muscles, heart, and brain. Digestion and other functions not essential for maintaining the alarm reaction are halted. The liver releases glucose (from its glycogen stores) into the bloodstream, which provides the body with fuel when faced with any real or perceived danger. Once this phase is over, the body goes through a 24 to 48-hour period of recovery.

(2) RESISTANCE PHASE. Due to the challenges of modern life, for many people the stressors (either real or imagined) are not acute (short term) but chronic (long term). In this second phase of the GAS, the body is still reacting to a perceived stress or stresses, but some of the outwardly observable signs of stress are different.

Despite the person appearing to have returned to normal functioning, levels of cortisol and adrenalin remain high. This can lead to a range of health problems including weight gain, and an increased susceptibility to infections, arthritis, allergies, and auto-immune conditions.

Chronically elevated cortisol has also been associated with increased risk of

Resistance

Exhaustion TIME

depression, insomnia, high cholesterol, atherosclerosis, hypertension, insulin resistance, diabetes, osteoporosis, and other degenerative diseases.

(3) EXHAUSTION PHASE. Chronic stress can eventually lead to the exhaustion phase. In this phase the body eventually fails to fight stress any more and simply gives up. The adrenal glands, which are responsible for releasing cortisol, become overworked and exhausted. They just fail to respond to stresses appropriately and therefore become unable to release enough cortisol.

This condition is commonly known as adrenal exhaustion or adrenal fatigue and accelerates the downward spiral to chronic poor health. Some of the symptoms of adrenal fatigue include: • Difficulty getting up in the morning • Continuing fatigue not relieved by sleep • Craving for salt or salty foods • Lethargy (lack of energy) • Increased effort to do everyday tasks • Decreased sex drive • Decreased ability to handle stress

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Increased recovery time from illness, injury or trauma Light-headedness when standing up quickly Mild depression Moodiness Lack of enjoyment / happiness with life Increased premenstrual symptoms Worsening of symptoms if meals are skipped or inadequate Less focused/ fuzzy thoughts Decreased memory Feeling tired until 10am, and an afternoon low between 3-4pm. Plus, a tendency to get a second wind at night.

Sensitivity to exhaust fumes, smoke or chemicals Dark circles under eyes Allergies Carbohydrate cravings e.g., breads, sugar, sweets Lack of thirst Difficulty exercising Heartburn/indigestion Heart disturbances (e.g., palpitations, racing heart) Low blood pressure Headaches/migraines

•

Sensitivity to light and/or noise

The good news is that it is possible to recuperate from adrenal fatigue (or avoid it completely) through the use of a number of psychological, nutritional and lifestyle strategies. Some of these include: • Taking regular time out during the day • Learning relaxation and stress management strategies • Eating healthy, wholesome foods • Eating at regular intervals (every 3 to 4 hours). When our body goes without food for any extended period of time it triggers the stress response.

• Sleeping 8 to 10 hours a day • Minimising caffeine intake. Too much caffeine can have detrimental effects on the adrenal glands • Taking supplements. Those that are particularly useful for the adrenal glands include vitamin C, B vitamins and fish oil. Taking an adaptogenic herb such as Rhodiola Rosea, which is contained in BCN’s Rhodiola Advanced, has also been shown to be extremely helpful in dealing with the effects of stress. fo

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Product Reviews Thyron

Thyroid problems affect up to 10% of the population and are particularly prominent in women over the age of 50. Thyroid problems may result from a number of factors including, nutritional deficiencies and adrenal dysfunction. Thyron contains a range of ingredients that support normal, healthy thyroid function and help relieve the stress that may lead to adrenal dysfunction.

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 Liporol®, 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.

MultiSlim

Gastro Forte AG

BCN’s Gastro Forte AG contains a prebiotic, soluble fibre called Arabinogalactins, which is derived from the Western Larch tree. It is a potent prebiotic and has been shown to have enormous benefits in supporting the immune system. Gastro Forte AG mixes easily in water or juice or may be added to food.

It may also be better tolerated than other dietary fibres.

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.

Relieve

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 Relieve Turmeric Forte contains a scientifically-proven bioavailable (absorbable) and fast-acting form of turmeric (Cumerone 1200 Betasorb) to help overcome pain and inflammation.

Many people want to lose weight fast. Therefore, it is essential that they use a ‘multi-directional’ approach in order to do so. This means they need to target body fat from a number of different directions. MultiSlim provides all the tools and information people need in order to help them get the weight off fast. It contains the supplements, XLR8 Thermogenic, GI Factor and MultiBoost, which all target body fat differently and help to speed up the fat-burning and weight-loss process in the body. MultiSlim also contains a booklet that explains the nutrition and exercise principles that help people lose weight and keep it off.

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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.focus-on.com.au 15 www.bodyconcepts.com.au or call 08 9248 6904

Is Your Gut Making You

FAT? O

besity is reaching epidemic proportions in our society today and alarmingly, the problem is only getting worse. This is despite there being numerous diets claiming miraculous transformations after ‘only days’. They promise that you will never be hungry and the fat will vanish forever. However, after some initial success and hard work, people eventually pack the weight back on and generally with reinforcements!

A commonly mentioned reason for an inability to lose weight relates to one’s ‘slow metabolism’. “I have a slow metabolism and that is why it is so hard to lose weight” is a common reason used to explain our ongoing weight-loss struggle. Our thyroid is often blamed for this slow metabolism and for some this is certainly the case. Suffering from clinical hypothyroidism or the lesser known condition, sub-optimal thyroid disorder can slow our metabolic rate, reduce our energy and make the challenge of losing weight even harder.

Recent research has also directed attention toward the importance of the gastrointestinal tract (gut) in contributing to weight problems. More specifically, studies have shown that there is a significant difference in gut bacteria between obese and lean people and this has led to interest into whether changing the bacteria composition of the gut (gut flora) could be a potential treatment for weight problems.

Our gut contains trillions of bacteria (known as gut flora) which are designed to enhance the overall

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health of our body. More specifically, when the bacteria in our gut are in balance it improves our health in the following ways: • • • • • • •

Improves digestion Regulates the immune system Increases the overall efficiency of the body Crowds out harmful microbes Produces natural antibiotic effects Slows the growth of pathogens Reduces the harmful effects of cholesterol

Studies on the relationship between gut flora and obesity have found that having too much of a particular class of gut flora, known as Firmicutes, and not enough Bacteroidetes leads the digestive system to more efficiently extract energy from food. This means that if we have a higher ratio of Firmicutes compared to Bacteroidetes, when we eat food more calories are taken from it, thereby leading to the increased potential of weight gain. So even if two people eat the same amount of food and perform the same amount of exercise, the individual with more Firmicutes will put on more weight.

While research in the area of gut flora and obesity is still in its infancy, some of the findings so far include: •

•

•

Bifidobacterium species of bacteria (part of the ‘lean-enhancing’ Bacteroidetes class) has been shown to be higher in children who exhibited a normal weight at seven years than in children who became overweight.

Bifidobacteria levels were higher in normal-weight compared to overweight women and also in higher in women who experience less weight gain during pregnancy.

Having an imbalance in gut flora can contribute to inflammation which triggers the common inflammatory symptoms such as pain and swelling but can also result in insulin resistance and weight gain.

Studies now consistently show that inflammation can lead to weight gain and weight gain can in turn increase inflammation. A vicious cycle is now

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...So even if two people eat the same amount of food and perform the same amount of exercise, the individual with more Firmicutes will put on more weight.

•

in motion.

In a study by Ley and colleagues they found that sterile mice that had no gut bacteria ate a lot but didn’t get fat, presumably because they didn’t have the bacteria to extract the full complement of calories from their food. But when the scientists transferred the bacteria from fat mice to bacteria-free mice, the mice gained weight.

The results suggested there’s something about the bacterial community in the obese mice that contributes to weight gain.

What Affects the Composition of Gut Flora?

There are numerous factors that can affect the composition of our gut flora and the likelihood of us having a higher proportion of Firmicutes compared to Bacteroidetes. It is suspected that genetics plays a part as we inherit bacteria from our mothers soon after birth.

Studies have also shown that the type of birth delivery (vaginally versus caesarean section) can affect bacteria levels. Our digestive flora also changes with age and is greatly influenced by medications such as antibiotics and antiulcer medications.

The quality of our diet is also a major contributor to the composition of our gut flora. Reducing processed sugar, refined carbohydrates and saturated fats can positively influence our flora balance. Eating high-fibre foods that serve as prebiotics (fuel for our gut flora) is another important influence

on our bacteria levels. Prebiotics have the effect of increasing certain strains of bacteria and one particular fibre known as Arabinogalactans has been shown to be particularly effective in enhancing the immune system and increasing leanenhancing gut flora such as bacteroides and bifidobacterium. Arabinogalactans are contained in BCN’s Gastro AG Forte.

One teaspoon a day added to food or liquid can be a great step toward positively changing bacteria levels in the gut.

Also, BCN’s DigestEZE also contains a range of prebiotics in combination with other gut-soothing ingredients to help increase the amount of good bacteria in the gut and improve gut function.

While more research in this area is needed, the findings on the effects of gut flora on weight gain are certainly exciting.

It is one strategy that may enhance weight-loss efforts over time and as a positive side effect, will likely improve overall health and well-being. fo

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