Category Archives: Wellness

Exploring the Science of Ageing with Dr Miglė Tomkuvienė

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Is It Possible to Delay Old Age? 

‘A person starts to age the moment they are born’, says Dr Miglė Tomkuvienė. A biochemist at Vilnius University (VU) Life Sciences Centre (LSC) explores what old age is and what methods could potentially delay its effects, should such methods exist.

‘This is not a new question. It has always been relevant, as the search for the elixir of life has been ongoing throughout human history. The new wave of interest results from the most recent scientific data on the ageing process at the molecular and cellular level. This is stimulating interest, both among the general public and among scientists, in how to halt ageing, or prolong a healthy and active life’, says Dr Tomkuvienė.

The scientist explains how we begin to age as soon as we are born: ‘Ageing is influenced by both environmental factors and the body’s own characteristics. At the molecular level, the way the body itself disposes of waste is important. It is also about the level of negative influence of the environment. All of these external and internal detrimental factors are slowly damaging us. And although we try to repair the damage, it eventually builds up, leading to a deterioration in the body’s functions, commonly known as old age.’ 

Causes of ageing

Many factors determine how this happens, including genetics and environmental influences. Scientists have now identified twelve molecular mechanisms that lead to the ageing of cells and, therefore, the body. 

‘This can be a variety of DNA damage that can lead to mutations and diseases such as cancer, for example, epigenetic alterations. There can be defects in proteins that are important as building blocks; disorders of metabolites, which are our metabolic waste disposal system; dysfunctions in the responses to nutrients; disorders of communication between cells; and stem cell exhaustion, where stem cells can no longer divide and regenerate, so the body can’t regenerate along with them. I would also like to mention that it is not only the health of the cells that is important for humans but also the health of the microbiota. This is the health of the bacteria that live in our gut and on our skin. It also contributes to our health, and when the microbiota is dysfunctional, we see an acceleration of ageing,’ explains the scientist.

 We all know the preventative solution: a healthy lifestyle

In response to the question of how to stay young, she says that all these mechanisms are highly interconnected and that we can make a variety of choices in our daily lives that can lead to better bodily functions. Everyone knows the answer is simply a healthy lifestyle: a healthy diet, plenty of exercise and sport, and the absence of harmful habits.  

‘Everything we do has an impact on our organ functions and, ultimately, our cells and genes. Epigenetics, now widely discussed, describes the mechanisms that regulate gene activity. Our genes don’t all have to work evenly at the same time because different functions in the body require different genes to play like an orchestra – some louder, some quieter, depending on their needs. The body has day-night patterns called circadian rhythms. Therefore, some genes must work at night and others during the day. They change in waves. If sleep is disturbed, so is gene activity. When the orchestra is out of tune, it can also lead to organ function deterioration, which manifests as ageing. 

Food and nutrition are essential for the microbiota, which I have also identified as one of the factors influencing ageing. Researchers now recommend consuming at least 30 different plants a week to get the widest possible variety of nutrients from them. It’s also important to absorb the fibre found in fruit, vegetables, seeds, and nuts. Sport is essential for the cardiovascular system: the blood vessels tend to clog up as we get older, so sport helps keep them working well. 

Epigenetics can explain what happens in the cell nucleus 

‘Epigenetics is the blueprint that aligns the body’s processes. Biochemical and genetic methods allow the study of genes that are marked by chemical markers in cells. Epigenetics works like this: we have gene sequences written in DNA, but what is also important is what is happening in the nucleus of the cell – around and attached to that DNA are what we would call ‘road signs’ that tell us where to stop. What researchers can do is extract DNA from human cells and look not only at its sequence but also at the epigenetic marks that are attached to both the DNA itself and the surrounding proteins. Current science already has a great deal of knowledge about which chemical molecules transcribe which epigenetic signals. As a result, we can extract a gene and know what gene it is and what its function is; we can also see what epigenetic marks are attached to it and, therefore, whether the gene is active in the person being studied. From this information, conclusions can already be drawn, Dr Tomkuvienė stresses.

She argues that this allows us to study different aspects of everyday life and how they affect our epigenetics. For example, studying the gene activity of people who smoke (both traditional cigarettes or e-cigarettes) and comparing it with a control group of non-smokers. This study showed that smoking alters the activity of a person’s genes. For researchers, such studies may help explain how smoking traditional cigarettes causes cancer and other lung diseases and how smoking an e-cigarette affects cells in a similar way to smoking a traditional cigarette, as well as how the effects of e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes may differ. This makes it possible to identify the molecular pathways by which such bad habits can lead to later diseases, lung failure, etc.

Aiming for customisable therapy

According to Dr Tomkuvienė, many studies are currently underway to develop specific drugs or complex therapies that can be applied as age-reversing interventions to our bodies: ‘Scientists have already identified specific genes and proteins that, if activated and perhaps with additional cellular input, could stimulate cells to rejuvenate themselves, and thus rejuvenate the whole organ.

Of course, the results are not yet as great as in a science fiction movie. The current focus is on how to rejuvenate individual organs. As I said, the body is a complex system with different organs, so we cannot rejuvenate everything with modern means. So far, we know that one of the mechanisms of ageing is the accumulation of aged or inefficient cells. Therefore, if they were rejuvenated or removed, organ function would be restored, and there would be less chronic inflammation, often suggested as one of the mechanisms driving ageing.’ 

Signs of ageing and how to reverse them

‘The signs of ageing for doctors are likely to be vascular blockages, dementia, cartilage damage, etc. For biochemists and epigeneticists, the cellular DNA level will be more important. We will see ageing as the phenomena I mentioned – ageing mechanisms, the accumulation of mutations, and epigenetic and protein-level disorders. When we are young and healthy, everything works in harmony: the organs and the cells, of which we have about two hundred types and 30,000 genes. As we get older, it all gets out of sync.

How can cells be influenced to renew themselves? In the future, maybe there will be pills. But right now, we are thinking about encoding the necessary proteins that give cells their youth. This would take place in the RNA molecule. This would be similar to when we had RNA vaccines against the virus during the Covid-19 pandemic. They encoded the information to be transmitted to the cells about what virus to protect themselves against. This is very similar to the way in which you can encode the proteins that make a cell’s genes youthful in an RNA molecule. Inserting them at the cellular level should make gene activity more like that of a young cell.’ 

However, all this is yet to be seen because, according to Dr Tomkuvienė, it is challenging to find the sweet spot in terms of how much we should rejuvenate. A Nobel Prize has already been awarded to a scientist who has figured out how to rejuvenate mature cells with a specific function to the embryonic level, where the cells do not yet have that function. But we do not want to become giant embryos. We want to rejuvenate the cells so that they perform their function perfectly but retain their identity – so that the heart cells function like a heart, the skin cells function like skin and so on. So, the challenge is to rejuvenate, but not too much or too little. Also, no research has been done on humans. 

93% Of Brits Rightly Believe That Problems With Sight Can Affect Wellbeing: Experts Share Nutrition Advice To Help Support Eye Health

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As one of the five senses, vision is pivotal to a happy and comfortable life. But eye-opening new 2024 data, part of a new report tracking the UK’s eye nutrition knowledge and habits – SEEING SENSE: The Nation’s Eye Health Knowledge And The Impact Of Diet1 and commissioned by MacuShield,[2] – has raised concerns around the nation’s eye health dietetics. The same MacuShield report also brings to light how much importance Brits place on their eyesight and their perceived negative impacts of poor eye health.

The report data found that a high 93% of Brits1 believe that a problem with sight can affect other areas of wellbeing. Nearly three quarters (73%) say sight problems lead to headaches, 67% report stress or anxiety, 54% say mood or mental wellbeing issues and 40% say increased risk of falls.[3]

Optometrist Francesca Marchetti and co-author of the new MacuShield report says: “The nation clearly knows the dreadful impact of poor eyesight. In fact, the MacuShield report data has revealed how 28% of Brits admit that vision is their most ‘important area of health’ and 84% believe that their vision deteriorating would impact their everyday lives.”[4]

But, according to the New MacuShield report: “SEEING SENSE: The Nation’s Eye Health Knowledge And The Impact Of Diet,” despite 63% of Brits saying a good diet can support eye health,[5] only 9% admit to actually eating a healthy diet.[6] What’s more, 42% are unaware how to eat to support their eye health[7] and 10% wrongly believe there is nothing you can do to support eye health.[8]

Clinical Nutritionist and co-author of the new MacuShield report, Suzie Sawyer explains: “There has been a slight improvement in some areas of the nation’s knowledge; when MacuShield shared the same data in 2023, 12% of respondents said they didn’t believe it was possible to help support eye health.”[9]

But more needs to be done. 

Public Health Nutritionist and one of the MacuShield report co-authors, Dr Emma Derbyshire notes: “We need to ensure that our diets contain the correct nutrients from a young age. Leaving it too late can have a big negative impact on eye health. The latest data from MacuShield has already found  that 70% of respondents admit that they’ve noticed their eyes deteriorating with age[10] and a high 91% of Brits would be more likely to look after their eye health if they thought they were losing their vision, rather than putting practices in place all the time to keep their eyes healthy.”[11]

“Dietary advice is extremely valuable, but it can only work if people are able to follow it,” adds Dr Emma Derbyshire, noting further, “Only a third (33%) of adults aged 19 to 64 are achieving their 5-A-Day of fruit and vegetables, according to the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS[12]), meaning two thirds of the nation could be short of nutrients including essential vitamins and minerals for eye health. But bridging gaps with the appropriate targeted eye supplements maybe worth considering alongside a healthy diet with at least 5 fruit and vegetables a day as well as following a healthy lifestyle.” 

Knowing our eyes

 The macula is part of the retina right at the back of the eye. “It is only about 5 mm across, but it is responsible for our central vision, most of our colour vision and the fine detail of what we see,” adds Francesca Marchetti. The macula has a very high concentration of photoreceptor cells – the cells that detect light. 

Francesca Marchetti explains: “The macula is the most sensitive part of the retina and gives us sharp central vision essential for activities like reading and driving. The pit or depression within the macula, called the fovea, provides the greatest visual acuity.”

The Macular Pigment

Francesca Marchetti notes further: “Most people don’t know that the macula has a pigment – the macular pigment – which looks like a yellow spot at the back of the eye. This macular pigment is composed of three macular carotenoids – lutein, meso-zeaxanthin and zeaxanthin. The highest concentrations of macular pigment and hence of the three macular carotenoids are found in the fovea.”

Nutrition Know How

Speaking of the three macular carotenoids – lutein, meso-zeaxanthin and zeaxanthin – Public Health Nutritionist Dr Emma Derbyshire says: “When it comes to knowing a little about lutein, meso-zeaxanthin and zeaxanthin, our knowledge of these macular carotenoids is sparce. In the latest MacuShield eye tracker data detailed in the new report: SEEING SENSE: The Nation’s Eye Health Knowledge And The Impact Of Diet – only 19% of people know what lutein is.[13]

“But the foods that pack in the highest amounts of these nutrients aren’t being eaten regularly by us Brits. Just 46% of people eat nutrient-dense green vegetables such as kale weekly, 13% eat it daily and 10% never do.”

Suzie Sawyer adds: “The macular carotenoids are found in vegetables and fruit, in particular dark green vegetables and orange and yellow fruit and vegetables. Meso-zeaxanthin is found in some fish and seafood, such as trout and shrimp.”

 All the products in the MacuShield range2 contain LMZ3 – a nutrient blend of the three macular carotenoids: lutein (10 milligrams (mg), meso-zeaxanthin (10 mg) zeaxanthin (2mg).  

Omega 3 DHA is another beneficial nutrient for vision. We need 250 mg daily for beneficial effect for maintaining vision. Oily fish such as sardines and mackerel  provide this nutrient but just 40% of Brits eat oily fish twice a month and 18% just a few times a year![14]

Other vitamins and minerals also play a key role in eye health by helping to protect the eye tissues from oxidative damage linked to blue light (such as sun and digital screen) exposure. These nutrients include vitamin C, E, B2 and the minerals zinc and copper.[15]

Zinc is involved in retinal function[16] as it helps contribute to the maintenance of normal vision, while vitamin B2 supports eye health and is important to help maintain opacity and clarity of the lens which contributes to the maintenance of normal vision.[17] Foods such as berries, citrus fruits, vegetable oils, sweet potatoes, liver, kidneys, red meat and dairy products offer these nutrients.

“It is worrying that around 20% of people haven’t heard of vitamin C[18] and 33% don’t know what zinc is,”[19] notes Dr Emma Derbyshire. 

Bridging Gaps 

In the UK, too many of us are not getting the key nutrients we need that help support our eye health nutrition needs. In fact, two thirds of the nation could be short of nutrients including essential vitamins and minerals for their eye health because of failing to consume  5-A-Day of fruit and vegetables. That’s according to data from the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS[20]; aged 19 to 64).

Bridging gaps with the appropriate targeted eye supplements such as those in the MacuShield range[21] maybe worth considering alongside a healthy diet with at least 5 fruit and vegetables a day as well as following a healthy lifestyle. 

New MacuShield Original+ Omega 3™ contains a blend of all three macular carotenoids – lutein, meso-zeaxanthin, and zeaxanthin. Suitable for vegetarians and vegans, the same supplement also includes vitamin B2 and a daily dose of 250mg of DHA – which each help to maintain normal vision with just one capsule daily.[22]

Dr Emma Derbyshire notes further: “The UK’s NHS recommends that  everyone eats one portion of oily fish (140g) a week[23] but, the government’s NDNS data has found that among 11 to 18-year-olds, oily fish intake is 21g weekly and in adults is only 56g weekly,[24] so many of us are not only short of vital nutrients like vitamin B2 and Zinc according to the government’s nutrition survey (NDNS), but also omega 3.” 

Francesca Marchetti says: “For those people struggling to get their five fruit and vegetables into their daily diets, there’s another way to help top up the eye nutrient levels and bridge dietary gaps – and that’s taking a targeted eye health supplement, together with a healthy lifestyle makes good eye health sense to me.

“Let’s take action now to help support our vision down the line as we age.”

How Flaxseeds Support a Healthy Gut Microbiome

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Supporting a Healthy Gut Microbiome with Flaxseeds: Key Benefits and Insights from Award Winning Nutritionist, Rob Hobson.

Flaxseeds are rich in vital nutrients

Flaxseeds are rich in vital nutrients, including lignans, omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, vitamins, and minerals. While the term “superfood” is often over-used, milled flaxseed genuinely deserves this title and should be a daily addition to your diet to enhance its nutrient density. These tiny seeds offer a wide range of health benefits, particularly in promoting gut health. A healthy gut is crucial for digestion, immune function, and overall well-being, and by choosing milled flaxseed, you maximise the potential benefits.

The Nutritional Power of Flaxseeds

Flaxseeds are one of the best plant sources of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid that we need to obtain from our diet. ALA has anti-inflammatory properties and ALA is known to lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol which is great for heart health1

Flaxseeds are also high in dietary fibre, making up about 40% of the seed. Of this fibre, 25% is soluble, which helps lower blood sugar levels and absorb cholesterol, both of which are important for preventing heart disease2. A study found that consuming flaxseed mucilage, which is the gel-like substance that forms when flaxseeds are mixed with water, can reduce levels of insulin and improve blood glucose control3.  This can help to promote better metabolic health such as reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes and other risk factors for heart disease like high cholesterol and blood pressure. The remaining 75% of the fibre in flaxseeds is insoluble, which helps add bulk to stool and prevent constipation4.

Flaxseeds are also rich in several other key nutrients, including protein, vitamin E, and magnesium. Flaxseed protein is a high-quality plant-based protein that contains all the essential amino acids, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet for muscle repair and overall health.

Flaxseeds and The Gut Microbiome

One of the key benefits of flaxseeds is helping to maintain a healthy gut microbiome. The gut is home to trillions of bacteria and other microorganisms that play a crucial role in digestion and overall health. A diet rich in healthy and plant-based foods is linked with the presence and abundance of certain gut microbes that are also associated with a lower risk of developing conditions such as obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease5.

Soluble fibre in milled flaxseed also supports a healthy gut acting as a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria in your digestive system, which can be converted into short-chain fatty acids that help nourish the cells lining the colon, promoting a healthy gut barrier and reducing inflammation6,7. A study published in American Journal of Physiology – Endocrinology and Metabolism found that the fibres in flaxseed help increase the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut, specifically Bifidobacterium and Akkermansia8.

Flaxseeds are also known for helping prevent constipation, a common digestive issue that can negatively affect gut health. In a study where participants ate 10 grams of flaxseed twice a day for 12 weeks, their constipation symptoms, especially stool consistency, improved significantly9.

Flaxseeds have also been shown to reduce intestinal permeability, often referred to as “leaky gut,” where harmful substances pass from the gut into the bloodstream. This phenomenon is associated with inflammation and gastrointestinal disorders such as IBS. A study found that consuming 40 grams of brown or golden flaxseeds daily for 12 weeks significantly reduced intestinal permeability in overweight women10. Research shows that ground flaxseed is particularly beneficial for people with IBS because it is easier to digest and better absorbed by the body. Regular consumption can help relieve constipation, reduce bloating, and improve overall gut health, which is often compromised in people with IBS11.

Conclusion

Flaxseeds are a versatile and nutritious addition to your diet, offering numerous health benefits, particularly for supporting a healthy gut microbiome. Milled flaxseed is an easy and effective way to boost your nutrient intake. Simply add 2 tablespoons of Linwoods Organic cold Milled Flaxseed to smoothies, sprinkle it over porridge, yoghurt, or salads, and mix it into homemade muffins, breads, and pancakes. This is a simple yet powerful approach to enhancing your digestive health everyday.

References

  1. Pan, A., Chen, M., Chowdhury, R., Wu, J. H., Sun, Q., Camargo, C. A., … & Hu, F. B. (2012). α-Linolenic acid and risk of cardiovascular disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 96(6), 1262-1273. https://doi:10.3945/ajcn.112.044040
  2. Soliman G. A. (2019). Dietary Fiber, Atherosclerosis, and Cardiovascular Disease. Nutrients, 11(5), 1155. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11051155
  3. Nowak, W., & Jeziorek, M. (2023). The Role of Flaxseed in Improving Human Health. Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland), 11(3), 395. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11030395
  4. Anderson, J. W., Baird, P., Davis, R. H., Jr, Ferreri, S., Knudtson, M., Koraym, A., Waters, V., & Williams, C. L. (2009). Health benefits of dietary fiber. Nutrition reviews, 67(4), 188–205. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1753-4887.2009.00189.x
  5. Asnicar, F., Berry, S. E., Valdes, A. M., Nguyen, L. H., Piccinno, G., Drew, D. A., Leeming, E., Gibson, R., Le Roy, C., Khatib, H. A., Francis, L., Mazidi, M., Mompeo, O., Valles-Colomer, M., Tett, A., Beghini, F., Dubois, L., Bazzani, D., Thomas, A. M., Mirzayi, C., … Segata, N. (2021). Microbiome connections with host metabolism and habitual diet from 1,098 deeply phenotyped individuals. Nature medicine, 27(2), 321–332. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-020-01183-8
  6. Ding, H. H., Cui, S. W., Goff, H. D., & Gong, J. (2015). Short-chain fatty acid profiles from flaxseed dietary fibres after in vitro fermentation of pig colonic digesta: Structure–function relationship. Bioactive Carbohydrates and Dietary Fibre, 6(2), 62-68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bcdf.2015.09.006
  7. Martin-Gallausiaux, C., Marinelli, L., Blottière, H. M., Larraufie, P., & Lapaque, N. (2021). SCFA: mechanisms and functional importance in the gut. The Proceedings of the Nutrition Society, 80(1), 37–49. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0029665120006916
  8. Arora T., Rudenko O., Egerod K.L., Husted A.S., Kovatcheva-Datchary P., Akrami R., Kristensen M., Schwartz T.W., Bäckhed F. Microbial fermentation of flaxseed fibers modulates the transcriptome of GPR41-expressing enteroendocrine cells and protects mice against diet-induced obesity. Am. J. Physiol. Endocrinol. Metabol. 2019;316:E453–E463. https://doi.org/10.1152/ajpendo.00391.2018
  9. Soltanian, N., & Janghorbani, M. (2018). A randomized trial of the effects of flaxseed to manage constipation, weight, glycemia, and lipids in constipated patients with type 2 diabetes. Nutrition & metabolism, 15, 36. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12986-018-0273-z
  10. Sant’Ana, C. T., Amorim, A. D., Gava, A. P., Aguilar, C. M., Silva, N. G., Machado, L. D., Viana, M. L., Oliveira, D. D. S., Silva, P. I., Costa, N. M. B., & Costa, A. G. V. (2022). Brown and golden flaxseed reduce intestinal permeability and endotoxemia, and improve the lipid profile in perimenopausal overweight women. International journal of food sciences and nutrition, 73(6), 829–840. https://doi.org/10.1080/09637486.2022.2052820 – 11
  11. Tarpila S, Tarpila A, Grohn P et al. (2004) Efficacy of ground flaxseed on constipation in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Curr Topics Nutraceutical Res 2, 119–125. 12

Is It Time To Try Magnesium Water?

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I hear about magnesium all the time. From muscle aches to better sleep, it is having it’s moment. I decided to try Magnesium Water from BetterYou. I’m now a firm fan. Not only are they refreshing and taste great, but they also make me feel healthier. From hydration, focus and energy, there is a drink for that. I will definitely be drinking these again.

Award-winning British wellbeing brand BetterYou has long been recognised as the market leader in magnesium innovation. Their latest launch BetterYou® MagnesiumWater™, is designed to refresh, hydrate, and optimise mental and physical performance and wellbeing needs through the power of magnesium. 

BetterYou magnesium drinks provide the optimal level of essential magnesium (180mg per serving) in a great-tasting recipe. The range includes:

Hydrate – A low-calorie citrus and botanical-flavoured Magnesium Water with added electrolytes to maximise magnesium absorption and rehydration. This drink can be enjoyed any time of the day.

Energy – Energising Magnesium Water with a B vitamin blend to support natural energy levels, flavoured with an uplifting blend of pomegranate and rhubarb. This drink is best enjoyed during the day to boost energy and help to optimise energy before or after a workout.

Focus – A functional magnesium drink with blueberry and mint extract, vitamin B blend and caffeine to support concentration. This drink works well for those looking to boost mental clarity and concentration throughout the day. It can also be helpful for those working long hours needing something to help refresh and support focus.

Added benefits:  Electrolyte-rich • Low calorie • Naturally low sugar • No artificial sweeteners • Zero additives

BetterYou Magnesium Water RRP:4-pack (mixed flavours) £5.9712-pack £19.99 24-pack £34.99

BetterYou Magnesium Water is available online at betteryou.com, in Holland & Barrett stores/online, on Amazon and in independent health foods store retailers nationwide. According to the NHS, the amount of magnesium you need per day is:300 mg a day for men (19 – 64 years) 270 mg a day for women (19 – 64 years)

Expert opinion “Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral essential for various biochemical reactions, from nerve function and muscle contraction to bone development,” says Dr Naomi Newman-Beinart, PhD. “It plays a vital role in converting food into energy, repairing DNA, and ensuring the regular function of the heart and lungs. It can also help to promote sleep, boost mood, support healthy bones,  boost exercise performance, and relieve muscle tension.”

Top Tips for busting Perimenopause

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Top Tips for busting Perimenopause: from co-Founder of Valerie, Wizz Selvey.

These are some simple everyday tips that should be prioritised when you’re dealing with symptoms that sound like they might be Perimenopause. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may still be necessary for some people, but following these foundational strategies can help support added HRT, or help you on your way to leveling out a regular day to day.

1. Feel Strong
Overtraining, HIIT and excessive cardio will drain your natural energy levels, and deplete hormones, so focus on supporting your skeleton through resistance training. Pushing your body too hard will only increase cortisol production, which in turn can weaken your immune system. So focus on training smart, not hard.

In mid-life we should prioritise building strong bones and muscle around the joints, because of the hormonal fluctuations and the impact that has on bone health. A full-body gym (or home) strength routine that focuses on choosing a goal and slowly increasing the intensity over time gives all of your muscles a chance to rest and build strength; providing balance, flexibility, and support to your body and joints. Body-weight training is a good place to start, and there are some great beginner routines on YouTube or social media to follow along to at home.

2. Feed Your Body Right
Stay as close to ‘whole and natural’ as possible and have a full range of nutrients. Think about groups of protein, fat, and carbs. As our bodies age and hormones begin to fluctuate, our nutritional needs change too. The most common nutrient that women lack in mid-life is protein. Generally speaking, we should have at least 1 gram per 1lb of body weight just to manage our normal nutritional health. These protein requirements change with hormone fluctuations, infections, and other types of stress, depending on the person.

Understanding the role and basic principles of nutrition is never more important than as we transition through to menopause. Our bodies need fats (cholesterol) and protein (amino acids) to make hormones. It is important to make sure that whatever diet you follow, you are nurturing yourself with the correct amount of protein, fat, and carbohydrate. To manage Oestrogen really effectively it’s crucial to eat these as whole foods and both insoluble and soluble fibres; supporting a healthy gut microbiome.

3. Manage Everyday Stress
We all know it’s harder to cope, think and function at your best when you’re stressed, but this is amplified by fluctuating hormones. Try meditating (apps I recommend are: Calm, Headspace, Healthy Minds Program, and Smiling Mind – the last two are free.), focusing on diaphragmatic breathing, or some grounding practices like forest bathing, to bring you back down to earth. Or mitigate the stress before it starts to mount by keeping your environment toxin and clutter-free, phone-free time, trying some novel activities, and socially connecting in person.

Another way to decrease stress can be limiting your alcohol intake; because it is a stressor to the brain and body — and its impact is worse in Perimenopause stages. If drinking is on the cards, make sure you stay optimally hydrated with foods/electrolytes and take supplements to help support your liver and brain function (suggestions below).

4. Recharge Your Body and Mind
Sleep’s one of the hardest things to maintain when mid-life gets to you, but it is really important for your the brain and body to maintain a regular circadian rhythm by going to bed and getting up at the same time each day. As we age our Lymphatic System starts to slow, which is one of the reasons we don’t feel refreshed from sleep. One way to manually stimulate this is through diaphragmatic breathing.

Diaphragmatic breathing gets the Lymphatic system moving, but also works to relax the nervous system. Do your best to breathe through your nose in bed, as this will decrease the chances of sleep apnea, which can limit diaphragmatic breathing and create stress in the nervous system. These things act as a gateway for jaw clenching or grinding, that can further impede Lymphatic flow. 

Wearable devices can really kickstart your sleep routine, such as Oura, Sensate, and Whoop. Manual lymphatic techniques such as Body Brushing are also great ways to help improve your overall circulation. I always have a Herbal Tea before bed, and Pukka make a really great Nighttime Tea that I recommend to everyone.

5. Supplements
I know, supplements are a minefield, with endless options! As this field is not very well regulated, it’s really important to know what you’re looking for, read the labels and stay aware. 

Here are some key points to look out for when choosing a high-quality supplement:

What are the therapeutic effects? Find this by checking the dosing amount of ingredients in the bottle. 

What fillers and other potentially toxic compounds are included? These can diminish the benefit of the supplement. What else, besides what you need is in there?
What is included in the supplement to help manage your symptoms? Nutrients such as Magnesium, Vitamin D, Omega fatty acids, and Adaptogens are very important to have and perhaps best in a blend. 

Lastly, what’s the delivery method? (pills, liquids, sublingual etc.) The right delivery method is going to help the nutrients get to work as quickly as possible. Liposomal formulations (like Valerie’s liposomal product) really are the best to ensure quick absorption and assimilation or bioavailability.

Happy Mammoth Hormone Harmony Review

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Happy Mammoth Hormone Harmony  £54.99 happymammoth.com

I am always wary of supplements even though I tend to be a sucker for them. Sounds like a contradiction? It is, but I won’t put just anything into my body. I had heard of Happy Mammoth and the reviews I have read are brilliant. So I jumped at the chance to review their Hormone Harmony supplement.

I can’t say how impressed I am. I have had three babies and the youngest is two. Losing weight has been hard, especially around my belly. I had an emergency C section and I also have an underachieve thyroid. I exercise as much as I can and try to eat enough protein. I took Happy Mammoth Hormone Harmony for a month and my stomach is flat. It definitely reduced my bloating and fluid retention. While supplements aren’t for everyone this one definitely worked for me. I loved it and I’m considering using it long term. Great stuff.

Contains a blend of plant extracts shown to relieve symptoms of Menopause, decrease symptoms of premenstrual tension, and support reproductive hormones.

  • Reduces bloating and fluid retention in 1 to 3 days
  • Eliminates hot flashes in as little as 4 to 7 days
  • Induces deep, uninterrupted sleep in 5 to 7 days
  • Starts shifting hormonal weight in 15 to 30 days

New Launches for ESPA & Christophe Robin

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We are super-excited about two new launches from Christophe Robin and ESPA. First up is Christophe Robin Healthy Glow Duo – RRP: £17.00

This contains minis of Cleansing purifying scrub with sea salt and Hydrating melting mask with aloe vera. The perfect ritual for a healthy scalp and deeply hydrated, shiny hair. A 2-step routine to gently detoxify the scalp and deeply hydrate and illuminate hair. This duo really works wonders. It smells great too. We cannot recommend it enough.

ESPA , Christophe Robin, new launches

Next up is ESPA Herbal Tea Infusion RRP: £15.00
Partnering with the mood-boosting benefits of the aromatherapy products in ESPA’s Signature Blends collection, these handcrafted wellbeing teas with their delicious flavours and beautiful aromatics are companions for modern living. With a choice of 6 blends in total, each infusion expertly blended to create moments throughout your day to pause, reflect, connect and inspire, from when you wake in the morning until you’re ready to turn out the lights at night.

Everything about this herbal tea infusion is perfect: the caddy is stylish and elegant. The tea is delicious and relaxing.  It brings instant joy every single time you use it. Love.

 

Australian Fitness Expert Shares Top 10 Takeaways From Over 100 Celebrity and Model Diets and Workouts

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fitness expert, fitness and diet tips, lose weight, Australian personal trainer and nutritionist Rachael Attard is sharing the most coveted secrets from celebrities and models – the exercise and diet plans that are responsible for their amazing figures. The influential fitness expert has gathered and studied the workout and diet regimens of more than 100 celebrities and models, and is now sharing her top 10 takeaways to inspire and educate others.

“Celebrities are in the spotlight and constantly demonstrating the highest standards of health and fitness,” said Attard. “Their exercise and diet routines are among the top questions I get from clients, so I’ve taken a close look at their strategies to share with others who might want to try them for the same amazing results.”

TOP WORKOUTS:

Cardio is top-of-mind for everyone when it comes to weight loss, maintenance and getting toned, and celebrities are no exception. Boxing is the go-to cardio workout for many, including leading ladies Jennifer Aniston, Salma Hayek, Kate Beckinsale and Sophie Turner; singer Dua Lipa and models Hailey Bieber and Lais Ribeiro.

Low impact exercise options such as Pilates or yoga are popular among singer Dua Lipa; actresses Margot Robbie and Emma Stone; and iconic model Naomi Campbell, who enjoy this mindful option following days of intense cardio or strength training sessions.

Among the more alternative fitness options, superstar singers Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, Ariana Grande and Taylor Swift are able to burn calories while rehearsing for tours with dance-based cardio, giving them the toned legs and defined abs on stage that are the envy of everyone.

Celebrities who call Los Angeles home, including model Kaia Gerber, are likely to go hiking – taking advantage of the many trails with close views of the infamous Hollywood sign.

Resistance training, also known as strength training, is the exercise of choice for model Sofia Richie; actresses Penelope Cruz, Emma Stone, Kate Beckinsale and Sophie Turner; and singer Adele who revealed a major weight loss earlier this year. This method utilizes resistance to muscular contraction to build muscle and improve anaerobic endurance.

TOP DIETS:

Among the most consistent diet tips from celebrities and models is to drink plenty of water. Countless celebrities attribute hydration to not only getting them through workouts, but making them feel full while also ensuring healthy skin.

Smoothies are among the most popular breakfast and lunch choices for celebrities, including singer Ariana Grande, Australian model Belle Lucia, former Spice Girl Victoria Beckham and actresses Emma Stone, Kate Beckinsale and Sophie Turner.

A dose of healthy fat in the form of avocado on toast is the go-to lunch for Pussy Cat Doll and Masked Singer host Nicole Scherzinger, while a commitment to regular juice cleanses has proven successful for actresses including Salma Hayek.

An eating pattern that cycles between periods of fasting an eating is a current trend called intermittent fasting, which is popular among actresses Vanessa Hudgens and Scarlett Johansson. Regardless of the fasting cycle chosen, each option reduces caloric intake for weight loss or maintenance.

“When it comes to clean eating and counting calories, celebrities are committed to a consistent lifestyle of healthy choices, but fall victim to cheat meals just like the rest of us,” said Attard. “Celebrities almost unanimously agree that pizza is their downfall, including actress Vanessa Hudgens.”

Rachael Attard is a certified personal trainer and nutritionist who holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Queensland, a Cert III and IV from the Australian Institute of Fitness, and a Certificate in Sports Nutrition from the International Society of Sports Nutrition. She is best known for her 3 Steps to Lean Legs Program, developed from her years of training women and helping them feel good in their skin, and fall in love with exercise and their bodies. Her in-depth blog post featuring the diet and exercise regimens of 100 celebrities and models can be found online, at https://www.rachaelattard.com/category/blog.