As we head into the colder months here in the Southern Hemisphere, it's important to remember the benefits of sunshine and fresh air. Nothing beats the feeling of warmth on your skin and the rejuvenation that comes from spending time outdoors.
While our bodies can produce Vitamin D3 with exposure to sunlight, the colder weather and shorter days can make it challenging to get enough of this important vitamin.
Supplementing with Pure Vitality's Vitamin D3 with K2 drops is a great way to support your health during the winter months.
Pure Vitality's Vitamin D3 with K2 drops offer a delicious and natural way to supplement your daily intake of D3 and K2. Infused with New Zealand apple juice, this formula includes Vitamin K2 to aid in the absorption of Vitamin D3.
Numerous studies have shown that Vitamin D3 and Vitamin K2 offer a range of health benefits, including:
Immunity - Vitamin D has been shown to play a role in immune function, and deficiencies in Vitamin D have been associated with increased susceptibility to infection (1).
Brain health - Vitamin D has been linked to brain health and cognitive function, and studies suggest that it may help protect against age-related cognitive decline (2).
Nerve health - Vitamin D has been shown to play a role in nerve health, and studies suggest that it may help alleviate symptoms of neuropathic pain (3).
Healthy bones and teeth - Vitamin D is essential for bone health and helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus. Studies have also shown that Vitamin K2 is important for bone health and may help reduce the risk of fractures (4).
Cardiovascular health - Studies suggest that Vitamin K2 may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by inhibiting arterial calcification (5).
Each serving of Pure Vitality's Vitamin D3 with K2 drops contains 1,000 IU of Vitamin D3 and 45 mcg of Vitamin K2 (Menaquinone MK-7). Our formula is made with high-quality ingredients. It's free of added sugar, gluten, soy, dairy, and nuts.
To use, simply shake well before use and take 2 drops daily on the tongue, or with water or juice, as recommended by your healthcare professional. Each bottle contains 450 servings, making it a great value for your health and wellness needs.
At Pure Vitality, we're committed to providing natural and effective supplements to support your overall health and wellbeing. Try our Vitamin D3 with K2 drops today and experience the difference!
And don't forget to take advantage of any sunny days by getting outside and soaking up some natural Vitamin D!
Please note that this product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. As with any dietary supplement, consult your healthcare professional before use if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking medication.
References:
Managing financial stress is important for wellbeing and mental health.
Here are some coping strategies that can help:
Endometriosis (endo) is a condition in which tissue that normally lines the inside of your uterus (endometrium) grows outside your uterus. It can affect your ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel or bladder. The pain of endometriosis can be devastating; it is the biggest cause of infertility in women and carries a huge personal and societal burden. Raising awareness and having open conversations, we can support and change that bias.
Endo is often misdiagnosed with the average length of time found to be 8 years after first symptoms present.
Your grandmother may have called this a "bad period,” it was a good chance she was suffering from undiagnosed endometriosis.
Common, but not all, symptoms can include:
Endometriosis is inflammatory.
Inflammatory chemicals play a role in the growth and development of endometriosis, but endometriosis also releases inflammation into the surrounding areas and triggers an inflammatory reaction from the immune system too.
How can we reduce Inflammation?
Eating a nutrient-dense diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods is one of the best ways to reduce inflammation. Antioxidants, which counter-act the inflammatory process of oxidation, are found naturally in vibrantly coloured fruits and vegetables.
Keeping pro-inflammatory foods like sugar and alcohol to special occasions also makes a huge difference.
Can Supplements help?
No matter how healthy we try to be we don't always get enough absorption from our daily food intakes. Many New Zealanders have mineral deficiencies such as selenium, zinc, magnesium, calcium and vitamins A, C and E to name a few.
When a chronic problem like endometriosis is evident, the body is put under extra strain and needs help to function efficiently. Taking a dietary supplement may therefore be helpful to improve general wellbeing.
At Pure Vitality we place a huge importance on women’s health and have products specifically to support women’s fertility, libido, stress and hormones.
Products such as:
Her Vigor Vitality - when it comes to hormone supplements for women, this advanced formula contains the best vitamins for hormone balance and enhancing desire, mood, stamina and energy.
Zinc mineral drops - Zinc is a trace mineral, meaning that the body only needs small amounts, and yet it is necessary for almost 100 enzymes to carry out vital chemical reactions. It is a major player in the creation of DNA, growth of cells, building proteins, healing damaged tissue, and supporting a healthy immune system.
Joint Vitality - Advanced joint support - powerful natural herbs that assist in relief of inflammation. This supplement combines tonics which supports overall vitality, energy and life force, healthy heart function and blood pressure.
Magnesium Citrate - Magnesium is a mineral that is required for energy production and metabolism, muscle contraction, nerve impulse transmission, and bone formation and development.
Boron mineral drops - helps balance pH levels in the body this mineral nutrient is known to support several biochemical processes, calcium and magnesium acceptance in the body and utilization.
Selenium drops - one of selenium’s most important roles from a human nutrition perspective is as an antioxidant, helping to prevent cell damage from free radicals.
To bring awareness to Endometriosis Month, with every order in March, receive a free bottle of ‘Pure Vitality, Her Vitality 40+’
The free bottle will automatically be added to your cart with any purchase this month, however, if you don’t wish to receive the free bottle, you can cross it out of your cart.
Seeking more help?
Observational studies have demonstrated a correlation between low K and D status with compromised bone health and increased cardiovascular risks. From there, interventional studies have proven that combining vitamins K2 and D3 positively impacted bone mineral density in both children and adults, and clinical research have demonstrated their beneficial influence on cardiovascular and insulin metabolism markers in adults.
Research supporting vitamin D supplementation is already compelling and quickly gaining government and public notice
A clinical trial investigating possible benefits of vitamin K2 supplementation in COVID-19 patients has been initiated by the Canisius Wilhelmina Hospital, Nijmegen, Netherlands. Funded by Kappa Bioscience, the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled “KOVIT” trial aims to evaluate whether vitamin K status affects elastic fibers degradation in the lungs. Research will be led by two doctors—pulmonologist Rob Janssen, Ph.D., and coordinating investigator Jona Walk, Ph.D., resident in internal medicine.
Pure Vitality's Vitamin K2 with D3 and Vitamin C capsules combine three nutrients extensively researched for their contribution to supporting general immunity.
Studies have revealed that vitamin K2 with D3 especially provide targeted support for.
For references and related content
-Trygve Bergeland is the vice president of science at Kappa Bioscience.
- Immune health and vitamins D and K2 | Natural Products INSIDER
- Immune health rising | Natural Products INSIDER
If the recent statistics are anything to go by, achieving and maintaining lasting weight loss is no easy task. Whether you’re upping your gym membership in an effort to lose a little holiday weight or overhauling your lifestyle completely on doctors orders, the struggle is real.
According to the CDC (1), almost 50% of adults in the US are suffering from obesity and a whopping 14% of preschoolers are also considered obese. Those numbers climb steadily through adolescence, growing to 20% once children reach the 12-19 year-old age bracket.
With obesity rates at an all-time high, and rising, it’s no surprise that the weight loss and fitness industry is also booming. Some estimates show the US weight loss market will be worth over 70 billion dollars this year. That’s an awful lot of low-fat frozen dinners and meal replacement shakes!
New fitness apps, diet trackers and workout subscriptions burst onto the already crowded weight loss market every day and a quick web search will take you to literally hundreds of different diets, cleanses and fasts, each one claiming to be the quickest way to shrink your waistline and get you back into your favorite pair of high school skinny jeans.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed with marketing and information or discouraged because you can’t seem to make the needle on the scale go down, don’t give up! Lasting weight loss demands real change, and we all know that change is never easy, but, with the right information and tools, it doesn’t have to be that hard either.
We’ve compiled a list of 4 weight loss myths that may be keeping you from hitting your goal weight.
One of the most pervasive myths about weight loss is the idea that diets work. There are hundreds of special weight loss diets, fasts and cleanses on the market and while some of these may result in short term weight loss, they are not sustainable. Crash diets are a temporary fix for a long term problem and studies (2) show that 85% of people using diets to lose weight gain it right back within one year.
If you’re overweight, the chances are that you need to overhaul your relationship with food and learn to think about your diet differently. The general rule of thumb is that if the diet you’re trying is not something you can honestly see yourself doing for a lifetime, then it’s probably not going to work for you forever. Pretty simple when you think about it!
The news about diets doesn’t stop there. Not only can some cleanses and weight loss diets be ineffective, but they can actually be dangerous, depriving your body of nutrients and calories that it needs to stay in optimal health.
The best dietary changes often have more to do with moderation than they do with cutting out foods like carbs or fat completely. Your body needs different types of food in order to function, and weight only begins to pile on when something is out of balance. Healthy and sustainable weight loss will probably happen at a rate of around 1lb per week. While losing weight this way may feel slower than a crash diet, you’re much more likely to stay healthy and keep the weight off long term.
While it is true that your body requires a certain amount of calories in order to maintain, lose or gain weight, it’s important to remember that all calories are not created equal. You are much more likely to succeed in losing weight if you feel full after your meals and understand that eating fewer calories shouldn’t mean going hungry.
Some foods like chocolate, cheese, or fast foods which typically include a lot of butter and oil, contain quite a lot of calories per serving. While these foods taste delicious, they often won’t fill you up or leave you feeling satisfied. We would call these foods high in caloric density. Meaning that they contain a lot of calories relative to their size. It makes sense that if you’re working with a limited calorie budget you’ll want to limit the foods in your diet that use up a lot of your daily calories, but leave you feeling hungry.
Other foods like fruits, vegetables, and most whole grains have a lower caloric density. This means that they are comparatively low in calories and high in fiber which keeps you full for longer. Each serving is also bigger. It’s easier to fill up on foods with a lower caloric density because you can eat more of them for the same amount of calories, fill your stomach, and stay satisfied for longer.
This doesn’t mean that you can’t ever eat chocolate or fries again, it just means that they should make up a smaller part of your diet:
If you follow these guidelines you’ll always leave the table feeling full and satisfied and you won’t feel deprived of the calorie dense foods you love.
While it is true that it may take some will power to say no to breakroom cookies from your co-worker or to push away the bread basket at dinner, will power alone is not the defining factor on your weight loss journey.
There are hundreds of reasons that you may be struggling to lose weight, many of which could be biological, and the will power myth can get in the way of finding the root causes and behaviors that may be causing weight gain. Worse, believing that will power alone is the answer to maintaining weight loss can actually sabotage many people on their otherwise successful weight loss journey.
Let's say that you’re having a great week of eating right and exercising, but when the weekend rolls around, you get invited to a party. You know there will be food and cocktails there that will bust your calorie budget, and you’ve bought into the will power myth. So, you go to the party and promise yourself that you’ll only have one cocktail and a handful of chips. After all, you just need to be “strong” enough to say no to the pizza, cheese, and cupcakes that you know will be available.
2 hours later, you’re having such a good time that you help yourself to a second cocktail and some cheese from the snack table and then realize that you’re at the end of your calorie budget but you’re still hungry! Your stomach is rumbling, and there’s no way you’ll be able to skip dinner tonight. You kick yourself for not having the will power to say no to temptation and a familiar script starts playing in your head. You believe you weren’t strong enough to skip the treats, and because you’re weak, your diet goals are doomed so why not throw in the towel completely?
Sound familiar?
A better way to approach weight loss is with a more holistic strategy. Instead of relying on will power and depriving yourself of the foods you love, think about them as part of your journey. It’s probably not realistic to plan on saying no to pizza for the rest of your life. Or to think that you’ll stick within your calorie budget every single day from now until forever.
Slip-ups and chocolate cake are all part of the human experience. Weight loss happens when we eat healthier and move more, most of the time. If you slip up or gain a pound or two on your journey, don’t let it throw you off course. And remember that it’s not a character flaw to enjoy yourself and indulge sometimes! Weight loss is about moderation, not perfection.
If you hate running on a treadmill and don’t feel pumped about lifting weights, we have some good news. While we agree that exercise is vital for your overall health, it’s not true that you have to spend hours at the gym in order to see a significant difference on the scale.
Most of our daily calorie burn actually comes from something called our “basal metabolic rate.” This is the energy we use just by performing basic functions and believe it or not, it takes a significant amount of calories just to keep us alive when our bodies are at rest. Experts believe that our basic metabolic rate accounts for between 60-80% (3) of our daily energy expenditure! We burn about another 10% of our daily energy on digesting food, which only leaves 10-30% for exercise.
This means that burning off the wine and cheese you ate at the company Christmas party is harder than it sounds and the most sure-fire way of losing weight is by managing the number of calories you have coming into your body, and not by the amount you burn each day at the gym.
While it may not help you drop too many pounds, exercise is still an important part of a healthy routine. Many studies (4) show that just 30 minutes a day of moderate exercise can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer and it can also improve your mood, so it is vital that you keep moving.
If you’re not used to a lot of physical activity, take it slowly. If you go straight from couch potato to sprints on the treadmill you run the risk of burning out mentally, and you could also injure yourself. The key to regular exercise is finding something that you like to do, and that you can work into your daily routine. It could be as simple as getting off the bus a stop or two early and walking more or taking the stairs instead of the elevator. If you would like to move a little more, you could try taking dance lessons with your partner, biking to work, or going for a gentle swim.
If you already maintain a vigorous exercise routine, but you’re still having trouble losing weight, be sure that you’re not overestimating the number of calories you’re burning. Remember, diet it’s the main culprit for weight gain, and no matter how much you’re moving, you’re most likely to see the scale shift, if you pay attention to the food you’re eating.
No matter how many pounds you have to lose, stay on track for long term success by busting these weight loss myths!
You’re most likely to succeed if you practice moderation and steer clear of fad diets that promise rapid results and label foods as “bad” or “good.” You can support a wholesome diet with a supplement like Slim Vitality which has been formulated by experts to boost your metabolism and energy and help you maintain optimal health while you slim.
Fill your diet with fruits, vegetables and whole grains that are high in fiber and have a low caloric density. This will keep hunger at bay, and leave you feeling full for longer.
It takes a whole lot more than will power to maintain healthy weight loss. Be kind to yourself, and remember that great results come from sustained healthy habits and not a lifetime of perfection.
Be sure to get at least 30 minutes per day of moderate exercise, but be careful not to overestimate the calories you’re burning. A healthy diet will be responsible for most of your weight loss success.
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
(1) https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/data/adult.html
(2) https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-12-biggest-myths-about-weight-loss#section10
(3) https://www.vox.com/2018/1/3/16845438/exercise-weight-loss-myth-burn-calories
(4) https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/physical-activity-its-important
https://draxe.com/fad-diets/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-12-biggest-myths-about-weight-loss#section6
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/6-worst-myths-youve-ever-heard-about-weight-loss/
https://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20980947,00.html
https://www.eatthis.com/weight-loss-myths/
https://www.rd.com/health/diet-weight-loss/weight-loss-myths/
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/articles/199702/body-image-in-america-survey-results
https://www.franchisehelp.com/industry-reports/weight-loss-industry-analysis-2018-cost-trends/
https://blog.marketresearch.com/top-6-trends-for-the-weight-loss-market-in-2018
http://businessresearcher.sagepub.com/sbr-1946-105904-2881576/20180305/the-diet-industry
https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/obesity-overweight.htm
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/calorie-density#section1
https://www.runnersworld.com/beginner/a20809220/calorie-count-not-all-calories-are-created-equal/
https://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/features/exercise-and-weight-loss-five-truths#1
Back pain is something almost, if not everyone, experiences at some point in their life. It could be a result of aging, injury, pregnancy, bending down to make your bed at just the wrong angle...or any number of reasons. However, back pain doesn’t have to keep you from living a full life or from partaking in physical activities you once enjoyed.
These are 3 misconceptions about back pain you should be ignoring, and a few things to try on your way to feeling like your best self again.
According to the University of Iowa (1), just because a certain movement or activity causes discomfort, does not mean that it is causing damage. In fact, it could be quite the opposite. A little discomfort is not a bad thing, and training your brain to not over-respond to pain associated with physical activities, may actually help you.
For example, pushing through a doctor recommended stretch that is going to increase your range of motion. The spine is able to absorb a lot of energy and unless you’ve been involved in a major accident of some kind, regular exercise monitored by your doctor, usually helps to keep your spine healthy and prevent chronic pain. The University of Iowa (2) says that acute back pain caused by minor injuries, usually dissipates in about 6 months. Talk to your doctor about what exercises you can do to regain mobility.
The use of our backs is such an important part of our daily lives, right? So when our backs aren’t working properly, we understandably, want to run out and find out why. While taking an active role in your health is great, sometimes paying for an out-of-pocket/network MRI, X-Ray or even surgery, can do more harm than good. The Joint Corp. (3) says that by using a combination of physical therapy, rest and possibly chiropractic care, again, all based on the course of action you’d personally like to take, 90% of herniated discs will heal on their own. In regards to MRIs and X-rays, those procedures may be able to show the source of the back pain, but cannot show potential causes such as weak muscles, a condition you wouldn’t need surgery for. An X-Ray or MRI should be saved for when you’ve been experiencing back pain that doesn’t improve for a prolonged period of time after implementing healthy diet, exercise and lifestyle changes and exploring alternative treatments.
According to Spine-Health.com (4), the vast majority of spine and neck pain are not passed down through genetics, but are rather caused by your environment and activity. Psychological factors can even play a role in pain, so try not to get caught up in any perpetual thought cycles that center around pain being your norm.
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
(1), (2) https://uihc.org/health-topics/common-misconceptions-about-chronic-back-pain
(3) https://www.thejoint.com/california/lakewood/lakewood-galleria-31030/the-top-4-misconceptions-about-back-pain
(4) https://www.spine-health.com/conditions/lower-back-pain/myths-about-causes-back-pain-and-back-problems
It’s a new year and per usual, a lot of us are looking for ways to shake up our routine, find new things that excite us, and continue to grow on the never-ending journey of self-improvement. Whether you’ve been a long time yogi, dedicated cross fitter, runner, dancer, boxer, or all around outdoors enthusiast, switching up your fitness game is always a good move to keep your body and mind interested.
Tabata is an exercise regimen that’s actually been around since the mid-90’s, but has recently started to gain steam in the mainstream. Tabata is a high-intensity interval workout inspired by Japanese researcher, Dr. Izumi Tabata (1) that was developed at the National Institute of Fitness and Sports in Tokyo. He created this method of training for athletes in 1996, specifically to see if it would improve the performance of skaters. The interval cycles were all out intensity for 20 seconds, followed by 10 seconds of rest, and the cycles were repeated for 8 rounds totaling 4 minutes. This method of training seemed to improve aerobic and anaerobic systems for the athletes.
You may already be familiar with the family of exercise Tabata falls into, otherwise known as HIIT: High-Intensity Interval Training. In our lives that seem to be getting faster and busier by the moment, high-intensity workouts can be a great option to get more out of less time by working a wider range of muscle groups than traditional cardio. One of the benefits of Tabata are burning fat by increasing your Basal Metabolic Rate (2) (BMR), the basic number of calories required to keep your body functioning while at rest. Another benefit mentioned earlier is increased aerobic capacity, or the amount of oxygen your body consumes during exercise, and increased anaerobic capacity, the greatest amount of energy your body can produce by burning carbs in the absence of oxygen.
Another benefit of integrating Tabata workouts into your regular physical activity is efficiency. You don’t need 45 minutes to 1 hour to workout anymore. You don’t even have to leave your house, which also saves you some cash from a gym membership, and who doesn’t want more money back in their pockets?
If you’d like to build a Tabata workout for yourself, this is a great guide from Men’s Journal (3) on how to put one together:
And Scene. Done. Finito. That’s it. There’s also some great apps available to help guide you through a Tabata workout, one of them being the 8 Fit app (4). In addition to Tabata, they also provide customized meal plans based on your fitness goals and dietary needs and restrictions.
So, if you’re looking for a fresh start to the new year and want to shake things up, or maybe you’re on a budget and need to cut out that gym membership for a while, or are working with a limited amount of time, give Tabata a try!
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
(1) https://www.mensjournal.com/health-fitness/tabata-training/
(2) https://www.active.com/fitness/calculators/bmr
(3) https://www.mensjournal.com/health-fitness/tabata-training/
(4) https://8fit.com
The new year is a time for celebration, resolutions and new beginnings. As the calendar year kicks off and you shake off the residue of 2018, why not leave your old hair behind and start off fresh with a brand new style? There’s never been a better time for a new cut, with a wide variety of trends, colors, and processes for every type of head. Whether you’re straight or curly, fine or thick, short or long, there’s a new style out there with your name on it.
While a new do can work wonders for your personal style, no amount of cutting and layering can replace the vitality, shine and effortless beauty of truly healthy hair. Blow-drying, color treatments, and simple sun and weather damage can wreak havoc on your lustrous locks that no amount of conditioning treatments can fix, but don’t fret. Truly healthy hair starts from the inside out.
The fringe is back, and in so many variations we can barely keep up. One of the great things about trying a fringe cut is that the commitment factor is fairly low and the effect can completely change your current style. If you don’t like your new look, it’s not as difficult to grow out as a full blown cut, and once it gets long enough, it’s easy to thin out and sweep to the side or turn into layers. Here are just a few of our favorites for your consideration.
The Curtain - With celebs from January Jones to Georgia May Jagger sporting the classic Bridgette Bardot style, we can safely say that the curtain fringe has been given a modern twist. Parted in the middle with hair making an inverted V shape across the brow, this is a great middle ground if you’re trying a fringe for the first time. It works on both curly and straight hair and can be effortlessly chic or edgy and rock and roll depending on styling.
Blunt - From Beyonce to Taylor Swift, the blunt fringe is an all-around celebrity favorite. Typically starting at the crown of the head, with hair hanging in a thick, razor straight line just above the brow, this look is sultry and bold and works best with perfectly straight hair of any length.
Side Swept - This style begins at your side part and swoops down towards one ear. It can be worn long sweeping over the eye, or short so it just grazes the brow line and can be left straight or curly depending on your hair type. Versatile, easy and ever so glamorous.
Who says that a new cut makes the most dramatic statement? A change in color can make all the difference. We’ve seen a pastel blonde trend over the past few years and it doesn’t look like it’s stopping any time soon. Whether you’re lightening your hair just a little for a sun-kissed look at the beach, or brightening up your winter blues with a Marlyn inspired platinum, blonde hair is flattering on just about every skin tone and it can also help with color maintenance if you have a few more greys than you’d like to admit. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try some pastel mermaid shades like green, blue, pink or purple there are a few great color depositing conditioners on the market. When these are used on blonde, or highlighted hair they leave a colorful residue that rinses out after a few washes making your color even more versatile and on trend.
The pixie cut is undoubtedly a bold choice, but what better way to start off 2019 than with a shortcut? While you lose the ability to throw your hair into a quick pony if you’re feeling lazy, you gain total liberation from all the hours you spend with your hair dryer, and it’s one of the easiest looks to style. New pixie cuts are feminine, flirty and can be combined with undercuts and choppy layers to add a little edge.
If you’re looking to spice up your style this year, try one of these beautiful looks. Make a big change to an existing haircut by simply adding a fringe, go blonde, or add some pastel shades to your already light color with a color depositing conditioner. Finally, if you’re really looking to mix it up, go for the chop and try a low maintenance pixie!.
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
https://www.harpersbazaar.com.au/beauty/hair-cut-style-trends-spring-summer-2019-16987
https://www.byrdie.com/hair-trends-for-2019/slide7
https://www.instyle.com/hair/hairstyle-trends-2019
https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty/hairstyles/popular-hairstyles-2019
https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/international-hair-trends-2019
http://afmu.net/best-haircuts-women-fall-winter-2018-2019/
https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/2017/11/181560/curtain-bangs-hairstyle-trend
https://overtone.co/
https://www.herstylecode.com/pixie/short-pixie-haircut/6/
Christmas is over, your relatives and friends have gone back home and you’re finally getting your house back in order. As you tidy up the tree, throw away the final scraps of wrapping paper, and help yourself to the last of the leftovers from the fridge you may be wondering what’s next. According to the Washington Post (1), roughly 40% of Americans make New Year’s resolutions; so if you’re pulling up your holiday sweatpants and promising yourself that 2019 is the year you’re gonna squeeze back into your favorite pair of jeans you are most certainly not alone.
One survey (2) suggests that the most popular new year's resolutions are all about saving more money with 53% of participants promising to tighten up their purse strings in the new year. Fitness and weight-related resolutions are a close second, with 45% of respondents wanting to lose weight, or get in shape. 25% of people would like to spice up their intimate lives and have more sex in 2019, and 24% of people would love to travel more.
The new year is certainly an exciting time, and while we all know that the digits on the calendar are only numbers, there’s something about January 1st that feels like a clean slate. Many people begin the new year by drawing a line under their past mistakes and forging ahead into the future with strengthened resolve, willpower, and positivity. We love the optimism of a fresh start, but unfortunately, as the months go by and the momentum of the new year gives way to routine, it gets harder and harder to stick to the promises we’ve made to ourselves. According to U.S. News (3), about 80% of resolutions fail by the second week of February.
Start Strong
Evidence suggests that if we start a new habit with intensity, we are more likely to continue that habit for longer. A study (4) by the University of Chicago paid ⅓ of participants $175 to hit the gym 8 times for a month. The other 2/3rds of participants were paid for attending an information session and having their gym attendance tracked, some with a minimum of 1 gym visit in order to pick up their check. It’s no surprise that the group who were paid for 8 visits ended up exercising more often, however, what is surprising is that the group who exercised most intensely during the study also continued to exercise at a much higher rate than the other groups after the study was over.
These results show that repetition may help us to build new habits. Take advantage of the motivation you feel at the beginning of a new year to load up on workouts, food tracking, meal prep and whatever else will help you reach your health goals. Even if it’s unlikely that you can continue all year at the same intensity, it’s important to utilize that initial burst of energy to ingrain a new habit into your routine. If you’re just getting started, focus on exercising often, instead of on the length of your workouts. This repetition will help you establish a routine, and avoid overuse and injury. Once your routine is stable, you can start to push yourself a little more in each session to reach your fitness goals.
As any good New Year’s resolution maker knows, motivation is the key to making sustainable change. If we felt as motivated to lose weight and exercise on December 25th as we do on January 1st, we’d all be at our goal weight by now.
Unfortunately, however, motivation is not a constant state of mind. Instead, motivation tends to descend upon us in surges and those surges lead to slips. The trick to lasting change is to set a series of realistic, easily trackable goals that satisfy your motivation, and give you the thrill of accomplishment every now and again. Feeling a sense of achievement as you head towards your ultimate goal, is much more motivating than delaying gratification till the end result, which could be months or years away.
Instead of setting one huge goal of losing 50lb this year, start with something a little more achievable. Focus on losing your first pound or two, and allow yourself to feel the satisfaction of that achievement. It doesn’t take long for the pounds to add up, and before you know it, you can focus on losing the first 10.
The same thing goes for exercise and fitness. Instead of setting one final goal of running a marathon, focus on your first 5k. You don’t have to be a marathon runner to feel the thrill of the crowd as you cross the finish line either. Search for 5k races in your area, and sign up for one a few months away. This will give you a realistic and easily trackable goal to work towards, and the sense of achievement you’ll feel when you smash your first goal will sustain you as you continue to train towards your ultimate destination.
Resolutions are notoriously hard to keep and change takes time. Whatever your health resolutions are for the new year, be sure to get a support system in place that can help you stay on track. This could be as simple as joining a class at your local gym, enlisting a trusted friend to check in with you each week, or joining a fitness or weight loss message board online.
If your resolution is to move more, see if you can tempt your partner or friends to join you in an evening walk each night. If you’re trying to lose weight, see if there’s someone you know who can trade meal prep tips with you, or go with you to check out a new health food restaurant. Having support and like-minded people around you as you make healthy changes to your lifestyle will help to keep you accountable and on track when your motivation fails you.
Wouldn’t it be great if you exercised every day of the new year and never felt tempted by fatty and sugary foods again? Often, when we begin a new exercise routine or kick off our New Year's resolution we are so optimistic about the changes we want to see in ourselves, that we forget to leave room for error. Even if you try your absolute hardest to work out for an hour every day before work, life will inevitably get in the way. Perhaps you’ll be working late to a tight deadline and oversleep, or maybe the kids will keep you up all night, or you might get a bad case of the flu that keeps you out of the gym for a week.
It’s important to remember that change happens when we spend most of our time eating well or keeping fit. One day off, or one slice of cake every now and again won’t derail your progress. Give yourself a pass to enjoy a decadent meal out on a special occasion, or a day off if you’re not feeling well. Avoid the kind of perfectionist thinking that can make lasting change very hard to sustain and create a realistic plan that you can stick to for the long haul.
Temptation Bundling
Have you ever noticed how much easier it is to do something that you don’t enjoy if it’s paired with something that you love? For instance, cleaning the house is so much more fun with your favorite feel-good album playing on the stereo, folding laundry goes so much faster if you’re watching the latest episode of Game of Thrones and going to the doctor is a little less stressful if you’re looking forward to a lunch date with a friend afterwards. This is called temptation bundling and it’s the practice of pairing an activity that you don’t enjoy, with a temptation that you crave.
This can be a great trick for health and weight loss, and it’s something you may already be doing without even knowing it. If you find it hard to get up for your morning run, save your favorite album, or the latest episode of your favorite podcast and make it a rule that you can only listen while you exercise. Dread getting on the treadmill? Bring an iPad to the gym loaded with your favorite series and don’t allow yourself to watch it anywhere else. Can’t bear the thought of spending your Sunday meal prepping? Invite a friend over to share a glass of wine as you chop and saute, and make them lunch as part of the deal.
Get creative and make temptation bundling a part of your daily routine, before you know it you’ll be counting down the hours till your morning workout date with your favorite show.
One of the great things about setting realistic and attainable goals is the sense of accomplishment and achievement when you see the results of your hard work. Positive rewards are a great way to stay on track and having celebrations to look forward to can keep your motivation burning.
Plan to celebrate when you lose that first 5lb, when your cholesterol comes down a few points or when you hit a milestone at the gym. These celebrations can be anything you’d like, treat yourself to a massage, or a bubble bath, or tell your partner to take you out for a night on the town. Buy that new pair of jeans you’ve been longing for, or go to the new restaurant you’ve been dying to try. Celebrations don’t have to cost money either, take yourself out for a sunny afternoon stroll with absolutely nothing on your agenda but pleasing yourself, visit a local art gallery or go for a drive. Whatever you decide to do, make it something you genuinely enjoy and take the time to pat yourself on the back for the hard work that got you to your goal.
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
(1) (4) https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2018/01/01/the-science-of-keeping-your-new-years-resolution/?noredirect=on&utm_term=.858c22881948
(2) https://www.statista.com/statistics/378105/new-years-resolution/
(3) https://www.businessinsider.com/new-years-resolutions-courses-2016-12#save-more-money-3
(5) https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/garcinia-cambogia-weight-loss#1
https://www.runtastic.com/blog/en/new-years-resolutions-statistics-and-tips/
https://proactivechange.com/resolutions/statistics.htm
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0956797615605818
https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2018/12/charity-based-secret-santa-springs-to-life-on-new-zealand-twitter.html?ref=ves-nextauto
https://www.stuff.co.nz/life-style/well-good/teach-me/100415978/before-you-quit-your-new-years-resolutions-read-this
https://www.casino.org/blog/new-years-resolution-survey/
The first time you meet someone special, everything about your relationship may feel like a brand new adventure. A simple phone call or a thoughtful text can be enough to make your heart skip a beat and put a smile on your face for hours. In those early days, few things feel as important as getting to know your new partner and so it’s easy to make time for them, think of exciting things to say and do, to keep your relationship moving forward.
As time goes on, our relationships deepen, and it’s normal for jobs, routines, responsibilities, and family to shift our focus away from our partners. You may not feel like going out dancing or cooking an elaborate meal after a stressful day at work, and when the kids wake you up at 5am, it’s okay to prefer an evening on the sofa to dinner and a movie. However, it’s important to remember that relationships need attention, and it’s all too easy to forget that the person sitting next to you in their PJ’s, is the same one who used to make your heart race just by looking at you.
It’s never too early or too late to try something new!
This may seem like a no-brainer, but busy schedules, kids and work can really put a damper on the physical energy you invest in your partner. We’re not just talking about intimate touching either. Studies (1) show that simple gestures of physical affection like holding hands, hugging, or gentle massage release a hormone called oxytocin in the brain. This hormone promotes feelings of devotion, trust, and bonding and can also reduce stress. So, next time you see your partner, put your arms around them, it’s science!
Believe it or not, research (2) suggests that people who feel good about their appearance, also tend to feel more satisfied in their relationship. Though beauty is only skin deep, putting a bit of effort into your appearance is a great way to boost your own mood, as well as letting your partner know that you don’t take their attention for granted.
Remember in the beginning when you agonized over which pair of jeans to wear to the movies to impress your date?
Bring some of that new relationship energy back by doing something a little special. It could be as simple as treating yourself to a new item of clothing, a haircut, or even some new lingerie or underwear. Treat yourself, and your partner will thank you.
Diet and supplements play a huge role in keeping us looking and feeling good. When your body is functioning at its best, you have all the energy and vitality you need to bring to a healthy relationship. Try adding a few libido-boosting foods to your diet like watermelon, which contains citrulline to promotes healthy blood flow, or enjoy some dark chocolate which is packed full of phenylethylamine to get your endorphins pumping.
Once we’ve been with someone for a few years it’s easy to take the things that make them special for granted. One way to keep the fire burning is to keep the compliments coming. Be vocal about the reasons you love your partner. Be sure to include physical, emotional and practical compliments in the mix and remember, positive reinforcement is powerful. Not only will complimenting your partner make them feel good, it also may encourage more of the behaviors that you love so much about them in the first place. Now that’s a vicious cycle we can get behind!
Remember, it’s never too early or too late to prioritize your relationship and bring the excitement back!
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
(1) https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=128795325
(2) https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/better-perfect/201702/13-ways-keep-the-thrill-in-your-relationship
https://www.bustle.com/articles/120702-9-unique-ways-to-bring-fun-back-into-a-relationship
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2864925/
https://www.uncommonhelp.me/articles/put-the-spark-fun-and-excitement-back-into-your-relationship/
https://clintonpower.com.au/2017/04/excitement-long-term-relationship/
https://www.breezystorm.com/physical-appearance-in-marriage-important/
https://nutritiouslife.com/love-more/libido-boosting-foods-better-sex/slide/4.-dark-chocolate/
Colored lights are twinkling all over suburban neighborhoods, Christmas songs are playing in shopping malls and coffee shops, there are holiday movies on the T.V. and everyone’s asking about your plans for the new year. It’s safe to say that the countdown to the holidays has officially begun!
While holidays are a time for celebration, the pressure to buy gifts and travel tickets, spend time with extended family, cook, navigate crowds and please everyone on your list can be difficult to manage. In fact, a study commissioned by the US Highbush Blueberry Council (1), found that 56% of Americans find holiday shopping stressful, while 41% found the pressure to have a perfect Christmas problematic.
Though it may be tempting to manage the extra festive stress with unhealthy habits like drinking alcohol and indulging in sugary foods, 60% of respondents also reported feeling guilt over their eating habits over the holiday season.
We’ve put together a few helpful natural tips to help you manage holiday stress without blowing your health goals in the process.
Sugary treats like Christmas cookies and carb-laden comfort foods like mac and cheese or banana bread might help you feel better in the short term, but once the sugar rush is over, the crash begins and the holiday pounds pile on. Instead of grabbing a quick fix from the shelves of the supermarket try eating foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids like tuna, salmon and sardines. Studies (2) show that omega-3s can help protect neurons against chronic stress damage. They may also help control depression and make you feel more social at your work holiday party!
Try this delicious healthy recipe from KuKomos Chef Jacqui Brown. As a bonus, this recipe also includes Feta Cheese which is a rich source of probiotics.
Probiotics help keep your gut healthy, so you can avoid the digestive problems that often plague people who are coping with added stress.
Ingredients:
Directions:
Elevated stress levels can compromise your immune system leaving you vulnerable to illness and no one has time to get sick over the holidays. Support a healthy diet with supplements to neutralize the damaging effects of stress on the body and mind.
3 - Exercise
When you’re busy, exercise is often the first thing to get pushed off the to-do list and with holiday parties and travel wreaking havoc with your regular schedule, it’s all too easy to fall out of your exercise routine. Instead of dropping the ball this holiday season, try to carve out some “me time” and make being active a priority.
Physical activity helps increase the production of endorphins in your brain. These feel-good neurotransmitters lift your mood and make it easier to manage additional stress. According to the American Psychological Association (3) 53% percent of adults say they feel good about themselves after exercising, and 30% say they feel less stressed.
If you don’t have the time for your usual hour at the gym, commit to 30 minutes instead of skipping it all together. If it’s just not possible to find a spare half hour in your day, don’t give up! Fit exercise into your routine in other ways. Take the stairs, park a few blocks away from your final destination or get off the bus a stop early, take an extra lap around the mall. All of these small activities add up to keep you moving and keep those stress-busting endorphins pumping!
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
(1) https://ushbc.org/
(2) https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2014/07/14/329529110/food-mood-connection-how-you-eat-can-amp-up-or-tamp-down-stress
(3) https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2013/exercise.aspx
https://draxe.com/feta-cheese-nutrition/
https://nypost.com/2017/12/21/festive-stress-is-ruining-americas-holiday-season/
http://www.nht.co.nz/Products/Products-by-Brand/Pure-Vitality/Enduro-Vitality
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/exercise-and-stress/art-20044469
The placenta is a temporary fleshy organ that develops in the uterus of mammals during pregnancy. It surrounds the fetus and delivers nutrients and oxygen from a mother to her growing baby. The placenta plays a vital role in creating hormones, steroids, and peptides that are essential to the health of an infant and it also acts as a barrier to protect the baby from any foreign substances or toxins that may be present in maternal blood.
The ancient Chinese herbalist and acupuncturist Li Shizhen wrote about the benefits of the placenta as a medical supplement as early as the 1500s and dried placenta has been used for centuries to help patients suffering from everything from impotence to skin disorders and fatigue. Today, celebrities like Victoria Beckham and Kim Kardashian use sheep placenta facials for younger looking skin due to its high protein content and actress January Jones hit headlines for remedying postpartum depression with tablets made from the dried placenta which is known to be high in the blues-busting vitamin B6.
Placentophagy or the practice of consuming placenta is still new to western medicine but there is evidence to suggest that it could help to boost energy, improve iron levels and ward off depression. Deer placenta is widely regarded as the best grade for supplemental use as the molecular structure of deer placenta matches well with human protein.
Deer placenta is a 100% natural source of hyaluronic acid which is recommended by many dermatologists for its capacity to improve the texture and appearance of skin. Hyaluronic acid is a lubricating substance produced by the body and it helps preserve collagen and moisture, increasing skin elasticity and promoting and improving flexibility in joints and connective tissue.
Deer placenta contains a number of natural hormones including IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor) which may be a natural aid to muscle growth and development. It has also been shown to help support bones, regulate blood sugar, support kidney function. Almost every cell in the body is affected by IGF-1 which is one of the many reasons that deer placenta has so much powerful support.
As the placentas primary function in the body is to provide nutrients and sustain growing life, it stands to reason that it is also a rich source of vital vitamins and minerals including essential amino acids, iron, and vitamin B to promote healthy energy levels. It also contains the antioxidant vitamin E which supports the body from free radical damage, calcium for healthy bones and teeth and zinc which works to support a healthy immune system.
Deer placenta is highly prized because it contains a tremendous amount of stem cells and these have a powerful ability to regenerate and repair damaged cells, tissue and organs while supporting healthy cells and nurturing new life cycles. All of this activity promotes healthy glowing skin and overall wellness and vitality.
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
https://mywellnesssecrets.com/why-deer-placenta-can-restore-your-lost-youthful-glow/
https://www.nzhealthfood.com/product/deer-placenta-2000mg/
https://www.dragonherbs.com/deer-placenta.html
http://deerplacenta.com/
https://www.thepurtier.com/faq
https://www.pressreader.com/malaysia/the-star-malaysia-star2/20140304/282175059040633
https://www.nzhealthfood.com/product/deer-placenta-2000mg/
https://lifestyle.inquirer.net/54285/eating-placenta-an-age-old-practice-in-china/
http://americanpregnancy.org/first-year-of-life/placental-encapsulation/
https://www.irishexaminer.com/world/health/eating-of-placenta-beginning-to-attract-international-interest-198712.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/placenta/art-20044425
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Placenta
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15507270
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15170365
https://placentaremediesnetwork.org/placenta-encapsulation/placenta-in-tcm/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Li_Shizhen
https://www.babygaga.com/10-shocking-uses-for-human-placenta/
https://www.vogue.in/content/victoria-beckham-uses-sheep-placenta-on-her-face-would-you/
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2285898/January-Jones-says-consuming-placenta-helped-beat-baby-blues.html
https://www.pharmacydirect.co.nz/Pure-Vitality-Deer-Placenta-Capsules-30.html
https://www.elle.com/uk/beauty/skin/a35378/what-is-hyaluronic-acid-and-how-does-it-work/
https://draxe.com/hyaluronic-acid/
https://draxe.com/igf-1/
The more we learn about integrating nutrition with traditional western medicine, the more opportunities we have to improve our health on a daily basis, meal by meal. That’s exciting! Through superfoods and supplements, diseases, particularly ones caused by inflammation in the body, have the potential to be improved or even reversed.
Here are some exciting additions you can make to your diet to start taking charge of your health today!
Healthy snacks are a convenient way to sneak in some powerful anti-inflammatory ingredients into your diet. This recipe from Chef Jacqui Brown of KuKumos for Cinnamon Oat Nut bars gives you a boost of protein along with the anti-inflammatory properties of cinnamon (1) and nuts like almonds or walnuts. (2)
You’ll need:
Preheat oven to 200 degrees Celsius, then grease a baking tray with the butter or margarine or line with tin foil. Mix all of the ingredients together in a bowl and make sure they are well combined, then pour the mixture onto the baking tray and press down firmly. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until the edges begin to darken, and then remove, let cool and cut into bars. These are great to keep in your car or in your purse or gym bag so you can snack whenever you feel like you have a dip in blood sugar, or need some protein before a workout.
Juicing in the morning is a great alternative to coffee (or addition to coffee for any hardcore coffee drinkers in the house who can’t fathom giving it up!). Juicing fruits and vegetables makes them more easily digestible so you can absorb all of the nutrients they have to offer. Additionally, juicing helps you consume more vegetables as well as broadening the variety of vegetables in your diet, which can potentially help improve results with weight loss, immune function, brain health, and energy levels. This delicious Carrot & Ginger Energizer from Chef Jacqui Brown of KuKomos is sure to jumpstart your day:
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
(1) https://www.healthline.com/health/osteoarthritis/turmeric-and-anti-inflammatory-herbs#cinnamon
(2) https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/foods-that-fight-inflammation
Halloween has come and gone, the neighborhood kids cleaned out your candy bowl and the last of the spooky treats at the office have finally disappeared. Just when you think you’re out of the danger zone, your most festive colleague brings in her first batch of home-baked gingerbread cookies and before you know it you’re dipping one in your morning coffee. Sound familiar?
The holiday season seems to come around earlier each year, bringing with it Christmas decorations, commercials, holiday music and well-meaning friends and colleagues with lots and lots of delicious treats. That means added sugar, butter and fat with your season's greetings. While holiday meals last for only a couple of hours, and each celebration is just one day long, it’s easy to start eating candy in October and continue loosening your belt until you make your new year’s resolutions in January. Many studies suggest that willpower is a limited resource (1) and if you’re doing your best to stick to a healthy diet, this means that being confronted by your favorite high-calorie foods all season long can wear down your self-control making it harder and harder to make healthy choices as the weeks go by.
However, it’s important not to lose heart. Believe it or not, it is possible to get through the end of the year without gaining weight and you can stick to your health and fitness goals all winter long.
If you’ve been invited to a holiday shindig, don’t arrive without a plan. If possible, ask your host what’s on the menu before you arrive. It’s much easier to think clearly in the comfort of your own home when you’re focused on your health goals, than after a glass of bubbly when you’re hungry and surrounded by food and conversation. Avoid the decision fatigue and meal envy by deciding what you’ll eat before you arrive. This way, you won’t be guessing your calorie count on the fly, and you can also plan a treat or two that fit into your calorie budget, so you don’t feel deprived. Another tip is to place your food on a small plate (this will help you with portion control) and be sure to move away from the food table once you’ve selected your items. This is a great tactic to avoid mindless grazing.
Just as it may be helpful to plan your meals ahead of time, plan for the inevitable conversations you are likely to have around food as well. Does your aunt Amy always bring her famous mac’n’cheese to the family gathering? Will your BFF be topping up your wine glass all night long?
Holiday’s are full of well-meaning friends and relatives who might not be aware of your personal health and lifestyle goals. They don’t mean to sabotage your meal plans, but they just can’t help but ask why you won’t try their home-baked cookies. Decide how you’ll respond before you see them and prepare some polite phrases you can use in the moment. Here are some ideas you may want to try: “Your cookies are just so delicious, I can’t ever have just one! I’ll end up eating the whole tray, so I’m going to pass on them for now.” “I am so full, may I take one for later?” Then wrap the item in a napkin and take it home for the kids, your partner or bring it into the office for your co-workers. “Thank you so much, but I’ll pass. I’m driving this evening so I have to pace myself on the wine refills!”
Holidays are very busy for most of us. Social engagements, shopping, family and work may eat up a lot of your “me” time this season. When that happens, it’s all too easy to skip your morning run, or your evening class at the gym in an effort to cram more into your days. Evidence suggests (2) that while skipping workouts may give you a little more time at the mall, it might actually drain your energy. One study showed that as little as 20 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise three times a week could increase your overall energy by as much as 20%! Just think how much you could achieve with that kind of energy boost working in your favor. If you really don’t have the time for your regular fitness routine, don’t just throw up your hands and give up. Instead, find a few 10-minute intervals during your day to fit in some moderate exercise. An example could be parking a couple of streets away from your destination, or jumping off the bus a little early so that you can get some extra steps in. Take a few laps at the mall before you begin your holiday shop or do a few arm curls with your basket while you’re in line at the checkout. You’ll get your 20 minutes of moderate exercise in before you know it, and then some!
Eating a healthy diet, along with regular exercise is the most sure-fire way to lose weight and stay healthy. While this isn’t rocket science, it unfortunately isn’t always as simple as calories and exercise alone. Your body needs the right ingredients and fuel to keep your metabolism working at its best. Simply limiting your caloric intake can leave you feeling tired and unmotivated and downright hungry if you aren’t getting all the nutrition you need from your food choices. We recommend a diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, protein, fiber and healthy fat with little to no processed foods and added sugar.
5- Portion Control
Holiday food is notoriously full of butter, sugar, fat and carbohydrates. All of these things are okay in moderation, and as a small part of a healthy diet, shouldn’t affect your health goals in any truly significant way. Real problems with weight and health usually happen around our diets when we overindulge. A second helping of dinner, all day grazing on rich holiday food, leftovers for breakfast, and candy at the office for weeks on end can all add up and leave you feeling bloated, tired, and unhealthy. On the other hand, we are human beings, not robots, and saying no to all of the delicious food on offer can leave us feeling deprived and anxious. While you may be able to keep it up for a week or two, the chances are that if you don’t allow yourself any treats this season, eventually your willpower will fail you and you’ll end up rebelling by overeating. This kind of yo-yo dieting isn’t realistic for the long-term and the cycle of deprivation, overeating and guilt is no fun either! A lot of healthy eating has to do with the simple concept of moderation and portion control. Try not to think of pecan pie as “bad”, and vegetable plates as “good.” Instead, be aware of the calories you’re eating and control your portions. This is easier said than done but with some practice, allowing yourself a treat now and then is actually a great way to lose weight and stay healthy in the long run.
If you have the opportunity to bring a plate to the party, or even better, if you’re cooking at home during the holidays, research some healthful substitutes to your holiday favorites. You might be surprised just how good some lower calorie food swaps can be, and with the right recipe, your friends and family will never even know that the mac’n’cheese their eating is low fat!
We love this recipe for Healthy Moreish Muffins from KuKomos Chef Jacqui Brown. The lowfat milk in this recipe along with the oat bran and apple make this a healthier fiberful choice when compared with a plate of gingerbread cookies, and the cinnamon and sultanas gives them a distinctly holiday flavor. You can experiment with different fruits and spices and use your imagination to make this recipe your own!
Ingredients:
Method:
Or try Jaqui’s Gluten Free Apple Crumble Pots
These are not only gluten-free, but because they are small, individual pots, they make portion control easy as pie. Try these in place of a more traditional apple pie recipe.
Ingredients:
Topping:
Method:
Topping: Rub the butter into the flour, then add the sugar. Spoon over the fruit and bake in a preheated oven for 20-30min, until golden. Serve warm with custard.
Turkey is your friend during the holiday season! One serving of turkey includes almost half of your recommended daily allowance of folic acid and it’s also packed with vitamin B, potassium and zinc. Getting enough of these vitamins could help keep your cholesterol down, protect you from heart disease and boost your overall immune system! Just make sure you’re not adding fat by deep frying, and keep the gravy to a minimum. A regular portion of turkey is somewhere between 3 to 4 ounces and you’ll fare better with white meat. Peel off the skin to shave off extra calories. If you’re not sure what a 3 or 4 oz portion of skinless turkey looks like, weight it out on a kitchen scale so that you can guestimate later, when your guests arrive, or when you’re out at an event.
If the holidays have you feeling stressed about your waistline, keep in mind these simple tips to get you through the season without adding an extra notch to your belt. As much as possible, plan your meals ahead of time at holiday gatherings and move away from the buffet table once you’ve filled your plate and have a few polite phrases in your back pocket for friends and family who may try to overfeed you. Stick to a realistic workout routine and get a few extra steps in as you run your holiday errands, practice sensible portion control instead of depriving yourself of everything on offer and remember, there is no such thing as “bad food.” Play with food substitutions and find a few healthy versions of your holiday favorites.
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
(1) https://www.apa.org/helpcenter/willpower.aspx
(2) https://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/02/29/the-cure-for-exhaustion-more-exercise/
https://www.sunriseseniorliving.com/blog/november-2016/how-to-prepare-for-healthy-holiday-eating.aspx
https://www.myfooddiary.com/blog/healthy-ways-to-prepare-for-a-holiday-meal
https://www.pritikin.com/your-health/healthy-living/eating-right/1235-controlling-holiday-binges.html
https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-and-nutrition-pictures/healthy-holiday-food-swaps.aspx
https://www.fitness19.com/healthy-alternatives-to-holiday-favorites/
https://www.glamour.com/gallery/7-healthy-holiday-cooking-substitutes-to-try-in-your-favorite-christmas-recipes?verso=true
https://www.fitnessmagazine.com/recipes/healthy-eating/superfoods/healthy-holiday-superfoods/?page=2
https://www.verywellhealth.com/principles-of-healthy-eating-2509639
Some form of acid reflux affects almost every member of the population at some point in their lives. You might notice some uncomfortable symptoms every now and again if you eat too fast on your lunch break, or overindulge during the holidays. A short-lived burning sensation in the chest, commonly referred to as heartburn, or an acidic taste in the mouth is usually just a signal from your body that you’ve eaten something that may disagree with you, or that you need to slow down and chew your food a little more.
However, statistics show (1) that acid reflux symptoms affect up to 20% of the population on a weekly basis and a whopping 40% of people feel discomfort once per month. Most of us are familiar with heartburn, or a sour, acidic flavor in the mouth but the full range of acid reflux symptoms might surprise you. Did you know that acid reflux can cause or contribute to a whole host of problems (2) like chronic dry cough, laryngitis and ear aches? It can even worsen asthma by irritating airways.
If you’re experiencing acid reflux symptoms you may have noticed that they get worse after eating or drinking certain things. Some major reflux culprits are alcohol, chocolate, fried and fatty foods, coffee, onions, hot spices as well as foods that are highly acidic like citrus and tomatoes. Pay attention to what you put in your stomach and take notice if one or more of these foods cause consistent problems with your digestion. If a pattern emerges, it may be time to cut that item out of your diet, or at the very least, reduce the amount of it that you eat.
Alcohol and deep fried french fries shouldn’t be a major component of anyone’s diet but other foods, like oranges and grapefruits, carry essential nutrients.
2 - Portion Control
It may not just be what you eat, but how you eat it that’s upsetting your esophagus. Acid reflux is caused by a weakness in the lower esophageal sphincter muscle (LES). This muscle behaves like a valve at the bottom of the esophagus, letting the food you eat into your stomach, then closing back up again to keep food and stomach acid from rising back up into your system and causing heartburn. Eating large meals strains your LES and can weaken your LES contributing to acid reflux. If you’re experiencing symptoms, we recommend eating several smaller meals throughout the day to take some of the pressure off.
Yet another reason to quit smoking. Aside from being bad for your lungs, heart, circulation, bones, reproduction and overall health, smoking can be a cause of reflux too. Cigarette smoke negatively impacts your LES muscle and could also increase the amount of acid that your stomach produces.
If you don’t smoke, or even if you do, check your meds. Certain medications like anti-inflammatories and pain meds (even non-prescription items) can contribute to acid reflux. Consult with your doctor to find out what alternatives may be available to you.
If you are one of the millions of people suffering from acid reflux every day, remember these 3 natural ways to ease your symptoms. Instead of indulging in large meals, try eating smaller portions throughout the day, stop smoking and consult with your doctor about any medications you are taking that might contribute to the problem, and watch your diet.
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
(1) https://www.myvmc.com/symptoms/heartburn/
(2) https://www.webmd.com/heartburn-gerd/guide/understanding-gerd-symptoms https://www.livestrong.com/article/454432-vitamin-c-acid-reflux/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/heartburn-acid-reflux-remedies
https://draxe.com/heartburn-remedies/
https://www.webmd.com/heartburn-gerd/guide/acid-reflux-symptoms#1
https://www.healthline.com/health/gerd/facts-statistics-infographic
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322737.php
https://www.webmd.com/heartburn-gerd/guide/heartburn-relief-tips#2
https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/citrus-fruits-you-should-definitely-give-a-try/#gref
http://www.morethanheartburn.com/causes/overeating
https://www.nhs.uk/smokefree/why-quit/smoking-health-problems
Comfort food season is officially upon us! Whether you’re trick-or-treating with the kids for Halloween, getting together at the dinner table with your extended family, or working hard in the kitchen on your annual yule log recipe, the chances are you’ll be surrounded by food and attending a lot of social gatherings over the next few months.
Research from Cornell University found that on average, Americans gain about 1.3 pounds between October and December. This might not seem like much, but according to a report in the New England Journal of Medicine (1), most people don’t ever lose their holiday weight. Given that the average adult tends to gain (2) between 1 and 2 pounds per year from early adulthood through middle age, this holiday eating could account for a lot of expanding waistlines.
While soups and salads are great in theory, no one can survive on nuts and berries forever and it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to convince your family to eat nothing but healthy and nutritious food over the holidays. Being surrounded by delicious holiday treats all season long makes it very hard to resist temptation and at this point in the year, many people give up on healthy eating completely until they step on the scale in January. This year, Instead of binging on treats or relegating yourself to salads and vegetable dips, try these substitutes that won’t leave you feeling deprived at the dinner table.
If you’re craving casserole, switch out the rice in your recipe for cauliflower rice instead. Not only does this reduce your carb intake but it will significantly up your fiber as well, keeping you full and satisfied.
Try this easy twist on a ham and cheese casserole that the whole family can enjoy, with only around 350 calories per serving.
- 16 oz of riced cauliflower. You can buy this pre-shredded and frozen, or simply throw about one medium head of cauliflower in the food processor until it has a rice-like consistency.
- 4 cups or 16 oz of broccoli florets.
French fries are technically made from vegetables, but once they are deep fried in oil, potatoes lose a lot of their nutritional value and gain hundreds of calories per serving, plus a tremendous amount of fat.
Try this delicious alternative with fewer carbs and calories, so you can enjoy more of it without the side of guilt.
If you just can’t beat that chocolate craving, it’s okay to embrace it every now and again. But here’s an easy tip to add fiber and a serving of fruit, giving those chocolate calories more bang for their buck and leaving you full and satisfied instead of craving more.
Our favorite fruit for this recipe includes strawberries, banana slices, cherries, and orange wedges!
As you can see, with a little know-how and creativity, there are several quick and easy ways to makeover your favorite comfort foods, turning them into healthier alternatives that the whole family can enjoy. More recipe ideas include swapping out store-bought potato chips for home baked and seasoned kale chips, trading a traditional pizza base for a personal whole wheat pita and spiralizing zucchini or roasting spaghetti squash instead of pasta. The possibilities are endless!
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
(1) https://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/11/22/the-skinny-on-holiday-weight-gain/
(2) https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2016/01/29/the-age-when-you-gain-the-most-weight/?noredirect=on&utm_term=.e4801a5e87c9
https://cookieandkate.com/2018/25-healthy-comfort-food-recipes/
https://cookieandkate.com/2016/vegan-spaghetti-alla-puttanesca/
https://www.delish.com/cooking/g1865/healthy-comfort-food/?slide=8
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?Db=pubmed&Cmd=ShowDetailView&TermToSearch=11206847&ordinalpos=15&itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_RVDocSum
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?cmd=retrieve&list_uids=10727591&dopt=AbstractPlus
https://www.realsimple.com/health/nutrition-diet/weight-loss/holiday-weight-gain
https://thatlowcarblife.com/ham-casserole/
https://bakerbynature.com/extra-crispy-sweet-potato-wedges/
https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/chocolate-covered-fruit-recipes/view-all/
When you are in your 20’s it seems as though your energy reserves are boundless. You can go to the gym in the morning, work all day, meet friends in the evening and stay up talking into the early morning hours. Then, after just a few hours of sleep, you can wake up to your alarm at the crack of dawn and do it all over again.
As you head into your 30’s and 40’s however, you may gradually find that lack of sleep and over-exertion hit you harder than they used to. After a late night out you hit the snooze button and skip your morning gym routine so that you can lie in bed an hour longer, or you reach for your 3rd cup of coffee before lunch and opt to veg out in front of the TV instead of meeting friends for dinner.
It’s normal for bodies to require more time to recharge as they age, and as the responsibilities of adult life require more of our time and focus, so it’s natural to take your foot off the gas for a little time out. However, studies show (1) that a whopping 76% of the workforce feel tired for most of the working week.
While exercise may be the last thing you feel like doing when you’re tired and run down, several studies show that regular exercise actually leaves you feeling more energetic, not less.
Exercise increases endorphin levels in the body. Endorphins are chemicals that interact with receptors in the brain to reduce your perception of pain and they also trigger feelings of euphoria. Endorphins are responsible for the “runner’s high” that athletes sometimes experience during a workout and they can help you to feel energized and positive long after you’ve left the gym. Exercise has been shown (2) to improve sleep and have a positive effect on cognitive function and concentration. It’s also been proven (3) to reduce stress and ward off feelings of anxiety and depression.
Given all of its energy boosting potential, there is every reason to believe that if you’re feeling run down, regular exercise can help get you back to your old self in no time. You don’t have to be a marathon runner to experience the benefits of moving more. The Department of Health and Human Services (4) recommends getting just 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week. That breaks down to about 30 minutes of moderate exercise 5 times per week. Moderate exercise could be as simple as mowing the lawn or going for a brisk walk. If you like to run, or cycle, even better. Just make sure you that you get moving every day to keep those endorphins active.
Your body needs fuel to function properly, and just like an engine, if you don’t feed it enough, or if you fill it with the wrong things, it won’t work at its full potential. Different foods are processed by the body at different rates. Refined sugars, starches and simple carbs like candy bars and fast foods are processed very quickly by the body, leading to a spike in blood sugar as your body converts the food into energy, followed by a crash. You may have experienced this crash if you’ve ever eaten at a drive through and felt like a nap an hour or two later, or eaten an extra slice of cake at a party and found yourself wanting to leave once the sugar high wears off.
Fill your diet with foods that have more bang for their caloric buck, whole grains and foods with plenty of fiber like fruits and vegetables are a great choice. They break down more slowly, giving your body a steady supply of energy throughout the day, instead of using it all at once and leaving you spent and wanting more an hour or two later.
As simple as this one sounds, the number one symptom of not drinking enough water is tiredness and fatigue so if you’re feeling sluggish and tired, you may not be getting your recommended 8 glasses of water per day. Being dehydrated has other health implications too. It’s easy to mistake the body’s thirst signals for hunger, so you may feel hungry all the time and dehydration slows down the body’s metabolism which could cause weight gain. Constipation, joint pain, kidney infections and a compromised immune system are all other side effects of dehydration so make drinking enough water a priority and cut out sugary sodas and fruit juice which cause spikes in blood sugar and lead to more hunger.
While 8 glasses of water a day may sound like a lot, you can also get your hydration from caffeine-free herbal teas, sparkling water and fruits like watermelon, oranges and grapes which also contain healthy fiber. Treat yourself to a cute reusable water bottle to keep at your desk and one for your car or your day bag and you’ll find yourself hitting your water goal without even breaking a sweat.
Remember these 3 simple, energy boosting tips to keep you active and doing the things you love no matter your age or schedule, keep moving with at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per week day, and drink your recommended 8 glasses of water per day.
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
(1) https://www.virginpulse.com/press/76-percent-of-workforce-is-tired-most-weekdays-15-percent-have-fallen-asleep-on-the-job-at-least-once-per-week-says-new-study/
(2) https://www.everydayhealth.com/fitness/workouts/boost-your-energy-level-with-exercise.aspx
(3) https://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/exercise-depression#1
(4) https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/expert-answers/exercise/faq-20057916
https://www.health.harvard.edu/energy-and-fatigue/9-tips-to-boost-your-energy-naturally
https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/eating-to-boost-energy
https://www.webmd.com/diet/ss/slideshow-your-guide-to-eating-healthy-carbs
https://draxe.com/zinc-benefits/
https://weather.com/en-GB/unitedkingdom/photos/news/ten-signs-youre-not-drinking-enough-water
According to the CDC (1), regular physical activity is one of the best things you can do for your overall health. Not only can exercise help you shed a few pesky pounds, it also reduces your risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers. It strengthens bones and muscle, reduces the risk of depression, may even help you get a good night’s sleep!
Experts recommend (2)150 minutes per week of aerobic activity for optimal wellness, which works out to be about 30 minutes, 5 times per week. While any kind of aerobic activity will do the trick, running is one of the easiest, cheapest and most accessible ways to get your heart pumping. There is no gym membership required, all you need to get started is a decent pair of running shoes, and there are literally hundreds of free resources and courses online for everyone from beginners, to advanced runners hoping to improve their form and time.
However, because running is a high impact exercise, it can be particularly tough on weight-bearing joints like knees and hips. So, whether you’ve just caught the running bug, or have been pounding the pavement for years, it’s essential that you keep your joints healthy and avoid common running injuries which could slow you down for months, or put you firmly on the bench for even longer.
If you’ve ever stood on the sidelines of a marathon, you will have noticed that runners come in all shapes and sizes. Running does not discriminate and there is no physical requirement needed to cross that finish line. Any able bodied person with the willpower and desire can train to run impressive distances. However, have you noticed that professional speed and distance athletes tend to be lean and small framed? It stands to reason that the less weight you have to carry, the faster you’ll be able to move, and the less stress you’ll put on your joints.
You don’t have to be at your goal weight to run, but pay attention to the weight you’re carrying and if you’ve got a few pounds to lose, be aware that your body is working harder to keep you moving. If your joints are hurting, be sure to add rest days to your routine to avoid injury and build some strength training into your routine to help you stabilize. If you’re running as part of a weight management plan, make sure that you’re accurately measuring the calories you’re burning before you replace them with extra calories in your diet.
While it may be unavoidable, as much as possible, avoid running on hard surfaces like concrete pavements and stone paths. Running by nature is a high impact sport and these are pretty unforgiving materials that transfer stress to your knees and hips.
Instead, try running on grass or earth trails, look for a synthetic track in your area or head to the gym for a treadmill. While asphalt is not ideal, it is better than concrete, so if you live in a quiet neighborhood, run in the road instead of on the pavement. Remember to play it safe by running against the direction of potential traffic so that you can see oncoming vehicles clearly, don’t wear headphones and if you must run at night, wear reflective clothing.
It can be hard to run on the perfect surface every time you train, so at the very least, try to mix it up and change locations every now and then, and wherever you run, remember that safety should always be your number one priority.
Supplements are a great way to support healthy joints and bones, especially if you’re doing a lot of high impact exercise. Glucosamine and chondroitin are naturally occurring nutrients that experts believe help the body maintain fluid and flexibility in and around your joints and bones. You can find these nutrients in shellfish and some animal tissue.
The amount of steps you take per minute is an important factor in not only how fast you run, but how much stress you put on your knees. Instead of taking long strides to increase your pace, aim for shorter steps which can help you run faster and decrease the force that your quadriceps place on the kneecap. While there’s no perfect stride rate, the golden rule is to be at or above 160 steps per minute.
To figure out your stride rate, count the number of times your right foot hits the floor in one minute, and then double that number. If you fall under 160, try to increase your stride rate in 5% increments. Music is your best friend when working on strides or pace and there are a number of music apps which allow you to enter the BPM you’re aiming for and then curate a playlist around that speed. Simply find the music that matches your target rate and run to the beat. You’ll be hitting 160 in no time, and you’ll probably have some fresh new tunes in your earbuds as a nice bonus!
According to the experts at Harvard (3), the human body was literally built to run. While other mammals may crush us in the speed department, the shape of our bodies, our leg length, ability to sweat, and the way that our spinal discs are built to absorb shock, all point towards a body that has evolved to run mile after mile. Many theories indicate that long-distance running may have been a key part of our early hunting strategy and has had a significant impact on our evolution.
While our ancestors likely ran barefoot, they were also not only smaller in stature and lighter, but they were not running on concrete and asphalt roads.
A pair of good quality, purpose-built and well-fitted running shoes are the only essential piece of equipment you need to become a runner. While these can be somewhat expensive, the investment is well worth it, a good pair of running shoes will help you avoid injury and should make running an overall more pleasant experience.
Most running speciality stores offer shoe fittings for free. A trained member of staff will observe you running on a treadmill and recommend the best pair of shoes for your specific build and gait. Once you have the perfect pair of shoes, you’ll need to replace them once the sole becomes too worn to absorb the shock of your feet pounding the pavement. Expert opinions vary on how often running shoes should be replaced, the consensus lands somewhere between 300 and 600 miles which is a very large window. If you notice any pain in your legs when you run, particularly in your knees, check the soles of your shoes. If the tread looks significantly worn, it may be time for a new pair. If in doubt, take them into a running store and ask the experts there to help you, a reputable store will show you where the tread has worn out, and explain why you may need a new pair.
Paying attention to your form is essential to avoid injury, particularly if you are running regularly. One of the easiest things you can do to lessen the impact on your knees is simply lean forward as you run. As simple as it sounds, studies (4) show that this move transfers your weight from your knees to your hips which are much more robust and powerful joints, designed to withstand more impact and carry more weight.
You don’t have to adjust your form too much to feel the benefit, simply lean in from the waist somewhere between seven and ten degrees as you run..
If you’re pushing your body to do more, it’s important to give it the right fuel. Just like a car, our bodies run on energy, and if your tank is empty of essential nutrients, you’re not going to get very far. Not only will a healthy diet help you to lose a few pounds and reduce the stress on hard-working joints, but an anti-inflammatory diet supports healthy joints and may help you recover from injury faster, or avoid it all together.
Concentrate on eating plenty of leafy green vegetables like kale and spinach, other great sources of these essential nutrients are berries and anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric and ginger. Up your intake of omega-3 fatty acids which can be found in fatty fish like tuna, mackerel and salmon. You’ll also want to avoid added sugar, hydrogenated oils and processed foods.
We love this refreshing recipe for Ginger & Watermelon Juice, a great after or before run beverage that contains all the anti-inflammatory benefits of ginger and supports good circulation throughout the body.
Add 1 cup of fresh diced watermelon to a blender with 1 & ½ cups of the chilled herbal tea of your choice. We recommend bright, fresh flavors like raspberry or pomegranate. Add 1 tsp of fresh ginger (to experience full antioxidant power do NOT substitute with ginger powder). Add 1 small pinch of sea salt which is an effective natural electrolyte, and 1 tsp of coconut sugar. While we don’t recommend adding sugar to drinks in general, the glucose in the sugar here helps your body to absorb the electrolytes in the salt.
Blend until smooth and if you don’t like the pulp, simply strain the mixture before drinking.
While every runner you know will tell you about the benefits of “runner’s high”, a kind of euphoric rush experienced as endorphins and feel good chemicals flood the brain during exercise, they will also tell you about the importance of avoiding injury.
Even if running faster or for longer distances may be your ultimate goal, it shouldn’t be the only form of exercise you do. Adding some form of cross training to your exercise routine strengthens the muscles around your joints and in your core, which gives you more overall stability and improves both your time and distance in the long run (pun intended). You’ll wind up running further and faster sooner than you would with running alone and you’ll be reaping the benefits of that runners high in no time.
Choose low impact activities like swimming or cycling, and resist the temptation to cross-train on rest days. Your body does need the occasional break from exercise to recover and repair tired muscles.
Stretching is an essential part of any running routine, supple muscles support healthy joints, assist you in avoiding injury and keep you moving safely.
You don’t want to stretch cold muscles as this does more harm than good, so don’t stretch before a run. You can perform some light stretches once you’ve warmed up for 10 minutes or so and save your serious stretching for after your run.
Be gentle with your body and ease into your stretching routine. Don’t use force yourself into positions that feel resistant and avoid bouncing in position. Slow and steady is the way to go here, gently lean into your stretches on an exhale and hold each stretch for about 30 seconds before release.
Running is a wonderful, low cost, high reward exercise, and the benefits in terms of mood and fitness are almost immediate. Whether you’re an experienced runner, or a beginner, it is essential that you take care of your joints to avoid injury and remain a regular runner for years to come. To support healthy joints try to maintain a healthy weight, be aware of the surfaces you run on, pay attention to your form and stride rate, build strong muscles with cross-training and stretching and look after yourself with a healthy, anti-inflammatory diet.
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
(1) https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/index.htm
(2) https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/adults/index.htm
(3) https://blog.mapmyrun.com/ideal-runners-body-type/
(4) https://www.shape.com/fitness/cardio/training-tips-prevent-knee-pain-running
https://www.active.com/running/articles/the-science-behind-your-runner-s-high
https://www.runnersworld.com/advanced/a20799321/joint-care-for-runners/
https://www.vitacost.com/blog/vitamins-supplements/supplements/run-easy-with-healthy-knees.html
https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/better-living-ra-17/active/slideshow-keep-joints-healthy
https://www.runtothefinish.com/electrolytes-for-runners-homemade-sports-drinks-gels/
https://www.southyourmouth.com/2015/02/homemade-sports-drink.html
https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/exercise/arthritis-friendly/running.php
https://running.competitor.com/2015/06/injury-prevention/the-runners-diy-guide-to-knee-pain_130060
https://draxe.com/running-tips-for-beginners/
https://draxe.com/knee-pain-relief/
https://draxe.com/natural-remedies-for-bone-and-joint-pain/
https://running.competitor.com/2016/10/new-runner/10-amazing-benefits-running-might-not-known_156473
Exercise health benefits: How running changes your brain and body - Business Insider: https://www.businessinsider.com/health-benefits-of-running-2018-4#running-is-a-great-way-to-burn-calories-7
https://www.runnersworld.com/beginner/a20847956/6-ways-running-improves-your-health-0/
https://www.rrca.org/education/rrca-general-running-safety-tips
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-807/glucosamine-sulfate
https://paleoleap.com/all-about-electrolytes
https://www.runnersworld.co.uk/health/the-rw-complete-guide-to-stretching-for-runners
We all know that a healthy smile can light up a room, but did you know that contracting your smiling muscles actually sends signals to the brain which increase the level of endorphins, or happy hormones in the body? This means that smiling more can actually make you happier! As if you needed another reason to take care of your teeth.
If worrying about stained teeth, or bad breath has you smiling with your mouth closed we’ve put together a list of 5 natural tips to have you cheesing like a pro in no time. If you’re already a proud owner of a perfect set of pearly whites, these tips can keep you away from the dentist drill for good. Remember, it’s never too late or too early to practice great dental hygiene and nutrition, and supplements like Pure Vitality Deer Bone calcium tablets to keep your teeth strong and healthy for a lifetime.
The simplest way to a great smile is to brush and floss at least twice per day. No matter how tired you are at the end of the day, don’t skip out on your evening routine and you can even pack a toothbrush kit in your day bag to get into the habit of brushing after meals. Some studies (1) show that using an electric toothbrush can reduce plaque by as much as 21% over a regular brush and many come with the added bonus of a built-in timer to make it even easier to perfect your routine.
Visiting your dental hygienist every 6 months for a thorough cleaning gets rid of the plaque and tartar buildup that causes everything from bad breath, to cavities and bleeding gums. While regular brushing and flossing are essential, there are areas of your mouth that even the most entrepid toothbrush just can’t reach. While no one loves the dentists' office, the more often you go, the less buildup there is, and the easier and faster those visits will be. You can even book your next checkup while you’re in the dental office to keep you on track.
Just one more reason to quit smoking. The nicotine and tar in cigarettes not only discolors your teeth, it also attacks your gums and encourages bacteria and plaque. This leads to erosion of tissue and can eventually contribute to tooth loss. Trade in your cigarettes for a pack of sugar-free gum. According to the American Dental Association (2), chewing gum increases saliva flow in the mouth. If chewed after a meal this can help to wash away the acids that may damage your teeth.
Did you know that 99% of the calcium in your body is stored in bones and teeth where it provides structural support? Studies (3) show that not getting enough calcium may also increase your risk of gum disease so it’s vital to make sure you’re getting enough of this important mineral in your diet. The best sources of dietary calcium are dairy products like milk and cheese but green leafy vegetables like broccoli and collard greens are also calcium rich. It can be hard to consistently measure how much calcium you are getting in your diet and so many doctors recommend taking a supplement like Pure Vitality Deer Bone which is a completely natural source of calcium that is more readily absorbed into the body than many other varieties.
If you’re looking for a natural way to whiten your teeth, try baking soda! Studies (4) show that toothpaste containing baking soda may have a natural whitening effect on teeth and they may also be more effective at removing plaque. While you won’t see a dramatic difference after just one brush, you should see a gentle whitening over time. To make your own baking soda treatment mix baking soda and water at a 1:2 ratio and gently brush your teeth with the paste. This is a particularly good solution for those with sensitive teeth as you won’t be using any harsh chemicals in the process.
So, to keep your breath fresh and your smile bright try these 5 natural tips to a healthier smile. Brush, floss and visit your dentist regularly, trade in your cigarettes for sugar-free gum after meals, take a daily calcium supplement like Pure Vitality Deer Bone and use baking soda for an all natural, gentle whitening treatment.
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
(1) https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/electric-toothbrush-vs-manual#electric-pros
(2) https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/chewing-gum
(3) http://oralhealth.deltadental.com/22,21396
(4) https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/whiten-teeth-naturally#section3
https://goledentalgroup.com/5-tips-maintaining-healthy-smile/
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/7-secrets-healthier-smile#3
https://www.healthline.com/health/improve-smile#see-your-hygienist
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/babies-and-kids/3-tips-for-healthy-summer-smiles
https://www.britishcouncil.org/voices-magazine/famelab-whats-science-behind-smile
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/electric-toothbrush-vs-manual
https://www.dhsv.org.au/dental-health/teeth-tips-and-facts/calcium-vitamin-d-and-phosphorus
Let’s face it, between working in a gig economy where everyone has 18 side hustles, maintaining relationships with friends, family and a significant other, weathering the daily news, and keeping up with all of the stellar programming on Netflix, we hardly have a moment to exercise... or so we think. Lucky for us, more fitness-minded professionals have noticed this lifestyle trend of busy-busy-busy, and made it easy-easy-easy for us to squeeze in physical activity in ways that work right into our daily lifestyles, whether we lean towards routine or sporadic in our habits.
Make time for a walk. Even 30 minutes of brisk walking every day can make a world of difference in your state of health. The Mayo Clinic (1) says that walking can help you maintain a healthy weight, prevent or manage various conditions including heart disease, high blood pressure or diabetes, strengthen bones and muscles, while improving your mood as well as balance and coordination. This could mean walking your dog in the morning or taking the scenic route to work if you’re within walking distance. Another great, free way to exercise is to take advantage of that Netflix time. Who said you have to stay still to watch something? Do crunches, squats, push-ups or leg lifts during that sitcom and before you know it, you’ve put in a 20-minute workout! If you want to step up the physical activity a bit from there or are averse to traditional exercise, organize some fun activities with friends like frisbee, soccer or volleyball at a local school field on the weekend.
There’s a lot of weight management products on the market, some of which have scary ingredients that can lead to some pretty gnarly side effects. However, a product such as Slim Vitality-Advanced Weight Management is all about helping you get great results while only putting high-quality, natural ingredients into your body. This proprietary blend of Garcinia Cambogia, Conjugated Linoleic Acid and Green Coffee Bean help improve weight loss, while Raspberry ketones improve metabolism. Acetyl L-Carnitine provides a natural super antioxidant and Green Tea Extract, rich in vitamins and minerals, provides powerful health-enhancing compounds. Finally, Bioperine from the Piper Nigrum plant, helps make all of these ingredients bioavailable to your body for absorption. Throw in a little Iodine and Vitamin D3 and that’s literally it. No weird stuff. Adding a supplement like Slim Vitality-Advanced Weight Management can help keep things moving even if you don’t have time to.
Long gone are the days where you have to go to a gym to be part of a work out class. With fitness apps abounding, you’ve got options galore. A great one is the 8Fit (2) app. At only $5.99/month, this app specializes in quick easy workouts, that are usually no longer than 8-12 minutes but pack a punch with calorie burning up to the high 200-low 300 range. This would be great if you’re a new parent trying to squeeze in a little self-care wherever you can, with quick concentrated workouts for your core, arms, legs, and overall body. You don’t need much equipment either as most of the exercises are based in Calisthenics (3) with minimal weights needed. The app also provides yoga classes as well as meal planning based around any dietary restrictions you may have; be it vegan, gluten-free, paleo, stardust-only…
It seems more and more people are abandoning a cubicle for a more active, relaxed work environment - with great results. They might not be intense workouts, but replacing your traditional desk with a modular desk like this one from IKEA (4) will help keep your blood moving and seriously decrease any risk of blood clots from sitting for too long. The National Center for Biotechnology Information (5) shows that sitting for and extended period of time every day is linked to weight gain and obesity and can increase your risk of diabetes, heart disease, and even early death. A study done by the NCBI (6) shows that standing at your desk during the afternoon can burn an extra 170 calories a day-adding up to about 1000 calories burned a week! Additionally, swapping out your traditional office chair for a ball chair (7) or even adding a balance disk (8), can help build core strength and tone core muscles, improve posture, burn calories, and inspire you to stretch. There’s also some seriously chic options out there now with selections from Humanscale (9) and Houzz (10) so you don’t have to feel like you’re bringing the gym into your office or home.
You don’t have to have a lot of money or time to incorporate physical activity into your life. It’s about doing it when you can, where you can, and in a way that’s fun for you so you’ll want to do it more often. Complimenting your activity with a supplement like Slim Vitality-Advanced Weight Management can help improve your results and give you the energy to get out and kick a little butt in that game of kick-ball! Pure Vitality has a wide range of fantastic natural products to help in whatever area of health you’re looking to improve and can be seen HERE.
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
(1) https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/walking/art-20046261
(2) https://8fit.com/signup/?utm_source=Adwords&utm_medium=CPC&utm_campaign=008-US-brand-desktop&gclid=Cj0KCQjw_7HdBRDPARIsAN_ltcIThnnqf7_LegOdR2jz0f3Es_tg_z0M9WohnnmRo__T-NBOBdbETe4aAoFDEALw_wcB
(3) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calisthenics
(4) https://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/S49084965/
(5) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25599350
(6) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24297826
(7) https://www.amazon.com/Trideer-Exercise-Stability-Flexible-Classroom/dp/B07CMC8C7H/ref=sr_1_12_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1538058911&sr=8-12-spons&keywords=exercise+ball+chair+for+desk&psc=1
(8) https://www.amazon.com/Gaiam-Balance-Cushion-Stability-Classroom/dp/B0764HWFL3/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1538058911&sr=8-6&keywords=exercise+ball+chair+for+desk
(9) https://www.humanscale.com/products/product-buy.cfm?group=ballo&gclid=Cj0KCQjw_7HdBRDPARIsAN_ltcJbFw5jq9y5KK54i75TOoEfFZ5xMDsmYbCt14RTiOR_nOofdQO6xSQaAnPeEALw_wcB
(10) https://www.houzz.com/product/104018993-black-sprang-chair-with-walnut-contemporary-office-chairs/?m_refid=PLA_HZ_104018993_1453746223&device=c&nw=g&gclid=Cj0KCQjw_7HdBRDPARIsAN_ltcJU0AnhpUDOOOtsGFaYvcWsOb7-Puy6IzVmbzCividOkNIRVMSJGZwaAlVMEALw_wcB
Although in your teens and 20’s it may have seemed impossible, the truth of the matter is that aging is a fact of life. Old age does not discriminate and will visit us all, regardless of our income level or social standing. You may have noticed, however, that movie stars and famous personalities seem to age a little later than the rest of us. While genetics do play a role in how fast we age, there are all sorts of factors that contribute to the appearance and experience of aging including fitness, nutrition and stress. The likelihood is, if you had a team of fitness coaches and nutritionists working hard to get you ready for your latest action movie role, you’d probably seem a little younger too! Luckily, it doesn’t take a million dollar income and a team of assistants to put a hold on the aging process.
Whether you’re young and full of energy, or experiencing the creaky joints and aches and pains we associate with old age, it’s never too late or too early to start looking after your body. After all, you’re in it for the long run! We’ve put together a few tips to keep you youthful for a lifetime, including Ageless Vitality, a daily supplement, formulated by experts to give you all the nutrition your body needs to keep you youthful and energetic no matter what the calendar says.
It may sound too simple, but if you want to look and feel youthful and energetic at any age, make sure you’re getting enough sleep. The average person needs at least 8-9 hours of sleep per night to function at their best and as we age the responsibilities and stresses of daily life can often make it hard to relax and catch those quality z’s. One study (1) from Penn State College of Medicine found that lack of sleep was more detrimental to men’s intellectual health than it was to women. Restorative sleep is essential to regulating brain function and keeping you sharp and energetic.
A few tips for a good night’s sleep include being sure not to eat just before bed, removing computers, phones and other devices from your bedroom and creating bedtime habits like drinking a cup of soothing camomile tea every night as you wind down. If you need something to do while you relax, try reading instead of watching T.V.
Exercise is key to overall health and may significantly slow down the aging process. A 2018 study (2) from the University of Birmingham and King's College London compared 125 amateur cyclists with a control group of people who did not exercise regularly. The researchers found that the expected loss of muscle mass and strength that we associate with aging was not present in the cyclists. They also found no increased body fat or high cholesterol levels in the group who exercised regularly and the men in the study showed consistently high testosterone levels. Even your immune system benefits from regular exercise. You don’t have to run out and buy yourself a track bike either. Research (3) suggests that just 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day is enough to kickstart a whole slew of health benefits so there’s no excuse not to keep moving.
As the old saying goes, "you are what you eat," and that is never more true than with aging bodies. While you’re young you may be able to scarf down a daily double cheeseburger and fries without a care in the world, but as you age, your metabolism slows down and your food choices become more important. Chose a diet high in antioxidants like blueberries, spinach and kale to keep your cells healthy. Be sure you’re getting plenty of fiber as this could lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Omega-3 Fatty Acids are great for heart health and can be found in fatty fish like tuna and salmon. A great way to support a healthy diet is to take a daily supplement which will ensure that you’re getting the well-rounded nutrition you need as you age.
Ageless Vitality is specifically formulated to support healthy aging and contains antioxidant vitamins A & E, zinc to keep your immune system functioning at its best, and selenium which, according to the arthritis foundation, may help keep your joints healthy and could even prevent illnesses associated with aging like rheumatoid arthritis.
If you’re a smoker and you need one more reason to quit, consider your age. Smoking not only contributes to and causes a host of health problems that will slow you down prematurely, it also wreaks havoc on your skin. Smoking interferes with the blood supply that keeps your skin looking plump and healthy and some estimates suggest that the average smoker looks about 1.4 times the age of their non-smoking counterparts. One study (4) from Johns Hopkins also found that smokers were 4 x as likely to report feeling unrested after a night’s sleep. If you’ve tried to quit before and are having trouble kicking the habit, find a support group online and set yourself up for success. Your older self will thank you.
So, if you want to stay youthful and energetic well into your golden years, make sure you’re getting plenty of sleep, fit in at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day, quit that nicotine habit and support a healthy diet with Ageless Vitality, one of the very best supplements on the market to make sure you stay as young as you feel.
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
(1) https://www.everydayhealth.com/mens-health/anti-aging-guide.aspx
(2) https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/03/180308143123.htm
(3) https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320760.php
(4) https://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20340112,00.html#bags-under-your-eyes-0
https://www.webmd.com/men/ss/slideshow-men-look-younger
https://www.mensjournal.com/health-fitness/14-ways-look-and-feel-younger-year/actually-get-restorative-sleep/
https://www.mensjournal.com/style/10-ways-to-looks-younger-tomorrow-w438523/trim-down-w438606/
https://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/over-50-nutrition-17/anti-aging-diet
http://www.chicagotribune.com/lifestyles/health/sns-health-zinc-role-better-aging-story.html
https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/treatments/natural/vitamins-minerals/guide/selenium.php
The search for smooth, youthful and glowing skin has been a part of human history for longer than you might think. Believe it or not, the first archaeological evidence that people were using makeup and moisturizing products comes from Ancient Egypt, about 6000 years ago. Cleopatra, the ancient queen of the Nile, famous for her incredible beauty, is said to have bathed in milk, honey and Dead Sea salts to keep her skin soft and supple. Wealthy Egyptians may have also used milk and honey masks, and Castor, Sesame, and Moringa Oil on their faces to promote flawless skin.
6,000 years later, we are just as interested in skincare and beauty as our Egyptian ancestors. Simply take a walk down the cosmetics isle of your local pharmacy and you’ll see hundreds of different creams, oils, scrubs and masks, all designed to give you a youthful glow that Cleopatra herself would have been envious of. Faced with all of this choice, it can be difficult to decide what kind of skincare routine is best for you and we’ve put together a little information to help you navigate the skincare aisle, along with a recipe for an all natural, homemade oatmeal and sugar scrub that will leave your skin soft, smooth and luscious without breaking the bank. Try pairing this with Vibrant Vitality, a skincare supplement formulated by experts to restore and nourish your skin, hair and nails from the inside out.
There are a lot of different factors that can impact the health of your skin such as aging, stress, pollution, sun damage and dehydration. All of these combine in some form or another in most of our daily lives and contribute to the development of wrinkles and blemishes as well as dry or oily skin, depending on your individual genetic predisposition. While wrinkles are not completely avoidable, some simple rules of thumb can dramatically impact the health and appearance of your skin, minimizing their development and keeping you moisturized and blemish free.
Diet and nutrition play the most important role in keeping your skin looking its best. Anyone with a green thumb can tell you that beautiful flowers and plants grow in nutritious soil, and our bodies are no different. Keep your skin healthy by feeding it plenty of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables. These help to protect your skin from damage caused by free radicals in the atmosphere along with pollution and sun damage.
We also recommend adding a supplement like Pure Vitality Vibrant Vitality to your daily routine. Our proprietary blend includes marine collagen, which boosts natural collagen production encouraging soft and supple skin. It also contains the all natural, powerful antioxidant, grape seed extract along with L-Cysteine and Vitamin C which all combine to give your skin the nutrition it needs to look its best year after year.
Wherever possible, choose natural products when looking at skincare ingredients. Because skin is porous, it absorbs the chemicals in creams and lotions like a sponge. Much like a healthy diet should contain mostly natural and unprocessed foods, a healthy skin care routine shouldn’t contain too many harsh chemicals and treatments. Look for ingredients you can actually understand on the label, and say no to processed ingredients, chemicals, artificial colors and fragrances.
One of the best ways to achieve a quick, healthy glow is to exfoliate. This process sloughs off dead skin cells and increases circulation, leaving your skin smooth, supple and fresh as a daisy. It’s important not to overdo exfoliation as too much of a good thing can cause your skin to overcompensate by producing more oil, so we recommend exfoliating once or twice a week for optimal skin health.
We’ve put together an easy recipe for an all-natural honey and oatmeal Scrub for smooth, luscious skin without any harsh chemicals involved.
Oatmeal is a great exfoliant and it is also gentle enough to be kind to even the most sensitive skin. As a bonus it’s hypoallergenic!
Honey is a natural moisturizer, attracting and binding moisture to the skin. It also has natural antibacterial and anti-fungal properties which can help prevent breakouts and acne.
Nutmeg is a natural astringent and contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
Lavender soothes inflamed skin and has a wonderful calming scent.
Tea Tree is an all-natural antioxidant
Use a good blender or coffee grinder to break up the oatmeal. If you don’t have either of these you can try grinding it the old fashioned way with a mortar and pestle, or use the back of a teaspoon in a pinch. It’s important not to overblend, you’re looking for a consistency that’s somewhat granulated but not as fine as a powder.
Mix the ground oatmeal with the honey, nutmeg and essential oils. If the mixture is too dry, add more honey until it’s moist enough to smoothly apply to your face.
Wash your face before application with a natural cleanser to remove all traces of makeup, and then apply the honey and oatmeal mixture in gentle circular motions. You don’t want to scrub too hard and cause damage, a light application should do just fine. Rinse the mixture off with a warm damp cloth and voila! Fresh, radiant, glowing skin!
Remember, truly healthy skin starts from the inside out, add Vibrant Vitality to your skincare routine for fresh, supple skin that will glow for a lifetime. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and be sure to check the label on all of your skincare products for natural ingredients.
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
http://www.homemadeforelle.com/honey-and-oatmeal-facial-scrub/
https://www.livestrong.com/article/177764-why-is-honey-a-good-face-mask/
https://www.scratchmommy.com/diy-sugar-exfoliating-facial-scrub/
https://www.dermstore.com/blog/how-to-get-smooth-skin/
http://barefacedtruth.com/2012/01/18/a-brief-history-of-skin-care-cosmetics-part-1-ancient-times
https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/cleopatra-beauty-secrets/#gref
https://www.marieclaire.com/beauty/news/a14366/beauty-makeup-secrets-ancient-egypt/
]]>Whether you’re staying ahead of cold and flu season, fighting allergies, or just in the mood for a delicious and convenient snack, a natural, immunity boosting smoothie might be just what the doctor ordered. Your immune system works hard every single day to fight off illness and keep your body in tip-top shape. Why not support the healthy immune system that supports you, with all the essential vitamins and minerals it needs to keep you feeling your best? We’ve put together a delicious, supercharged, immunity boosting smoothie recipe with Pure Vitality Vitamin C for added immune support.
Your immune system is made up of a complex network of tissues, cells and organs that fight off the free radicals and antigens that cause illness and disease. Whether we know it or not, our everyday environment contains all sorts of antigens, including viruses, bacteria and even parasites and fungus. A healthy immune system creates a barrier as a first line of defense against these invaders, stopping them from entering the body all together. If an antigen does get through, your immune system also produces white blood cells, sometimes called the soldiers of the body. These white blood cells immediately go to work to destroy the foreign substances before they multiply and cause damage. When your immune system is functioning properly, it is able to help ward off everything from the common cold, to more serious conditions and it will even remember antigens it has successfully warded off in the past, in order to prevent re-infection.
We’ve put together some immunity boosting ingredients for a power-packed, delicious smoothie that will help keep your system working at its best.
Vitamin C has been shown to trigger both the production and function of the white blood cells that protect your body from illness and disease. Oranges, lemons, grapefruits and other citrus fruits are a great source of vitamin C, but did you know that strawberries, mango, papaya and pineapple are also packed with this essential, immunity boosting ingredient?
We recommend using one cup of freshly squeezed orange juice as your smoothie base, and adding 1 & ½ cups of the vitamin C packed fruit mixture of your choice. We like frozen strawberries, pineapple and papaya, but you can experiment and mix it up any way you like!
For a supercharged smoothie, we recommend adding an extra boost of vitamin C with Pure Vitality Vitamin C capsules. Packed with 1000 mg of pure vitamin C with no binders, fillers, artificial flavourings, colourings or preservatives, these capsules are also buffered with sodium ascorbate to decrease acidity, making them gentle on the stomach too.
Break one capsule into your blender for a powerful, all-natural, immunity turbo boost.
Green, leafy vegetables like kale, spinach and swiss chard are not only packed with vitamin C, but they also contain lots of antioxidants and beta-carotene which may help your body keep infections at bay.
Toss a handful or two of these leafy greens into the mix to boost the infection-fighting power of your smoothie. Kale, spinach and swiss chard are all great options because they have delicate flavors which will not compete with the other ingredients, allowing the sweetness of the fruit to shine through in this cold-busting recipe.
Ginger not only tastes delicious, but it is immune boosting, anti-bacterial and could even prevent nausea and soothe an upset stomach.
Try adding about a teaspoon of freshly minced ginger to your blender. We suggest tasting your smoothie before adding more of this super spice, as it does have a bold flavor.
The live cultures found in some yogurt may help boost your immune system by balancing out harmful bacteria in the gut. Look for words like “probiotic” and “live culture” on the label.
Add ½ cup of yogurt and if you’re dairy free, try almond or coconut milk instead.
As a bonus, here are a few of our other favorite smoothie recipes:
Whether you’re making breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner or snack, try this delicious recipe for a power packed immune boosting treat. Don’t forget to add Pure Vitality Vitamin C capsules to give your immune system all of the support it needs to keep you healthy and strong, no matter what you’ve got on your plate.
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
https://www.byrdie.com/immune-boosting-smoothies
https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/features/how-use-your-immune-system-stay-healthy#1
https://fountainavenuekitchen.com/immunity-boosting-smoothie/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3614697/
https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/vitamins/vitamin-C
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vitamin-c-foods#section21
https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/foods-that-boost-the-immune-system#spinach
https://www.healthydirections.com/5-Foods-That-Boost-Your-Immune-System
https://www.livestrong.com/article/418000-how-to-lower-sodium-with-yogurt/
]]>Joint pain can be a serious issue, and some surveys (1) suggest that it could be affecting up to one-third of the population at any given time. If you are one of millions of people living with daily discomfort and pain in your joints you should know that there are several natural remedies that have been shown to help patients living with symptoms ranging from occasional stiffness to more serious issues that make it difficult to deal with daily life.
Even over the counter painkillers such as paracetamol, aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can have damaging effects (2) on your body if taken too regularly or for too long, including liver and kidney problems and ulcers. They can also interfere with other medications such as antidepressants and blood thinners. Needless to say, relying on over the counter or doctor recommended medication is not ideal, and because they don’t help your body deal with the cause of the problem, they are at best just masking the painful symptoms while not actually helping to rectify the issues in your body.
The most common areas for this kind of pain are weight-bearing joints that get a lot of repetitive use like the lower back, knees, hips, neck and shoulders. If you are one of millions of sufferers, whether you’re dealing with degenerative issues like arthritis, or simple everyday aches and pains, you could benefit from natural treatments.lasting relief.
We’ve put together a simple, effective 4 step plan to help you understand and ease joint pain the natural way.
In order to understand how to protect and sustain your joints, it’s helpful to know how they work and what causes them to hurt when they’re not functioning properly. A joint is the part of your body where two bones meet, and in order to stop them rubbing together, the space between them is full of connective tissue (cartilage) and a soft tissue called synovium along with a lubricant.
There are dozens of different conditions that may cause joint pain, however the most common of these is arthritis. As we age, the wear and tear of years of use cause natural damage to the cartilage which can lead to sore joints that are not properly protected by the body. Injuries like muscle damage and broken bones can also cause joint problems, bad posture can put stress on delicate joints and a sedentary lifestyle or weight gain may also create issues.
If your joint pain is severe, it could feel as though your muscles or the actual bones themselves are hurting, while it’s more likely that the pain is originating in the inflamed joints themselves, severe conditions like osteoporosis do cause bones to become weak and can lead to painful fractures, affecting posture and making everyday movements very hard.
Common problem areas include the neck and shoulders which often store a lot of stress and tension, and runners and other athletes can be particularly susceptible to issues surrounding the knees, ankles, and feet caused by injury or poor form. We also see a lot of problems with weight-bearing joints like the hips and lower back, and the complex clusters of joints in the hands, wrists and fingers. Some people also experience problems in the jaw with conditions like TMJ.
Depending on how severe the joint pain is, your doctor could recommend over the counter medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or other pain-killers like aspirin or ibuprofen. If the pain is particularly difficult to live with, you may receive a doctor's note for a painkiller to help manage your symptoms. Because some of these can cause serious side effects, even with short-term use for some people, most doctors will use these as a last resort or as a temporary solution as part of a longer treatment plan.
A longer treatment plan could include adding exercise to your daily routine if you lead a particularly sedentary lifestyle, or resting and altering your current fitness routine if you are very active. They may also recommend physical therapy or in some cases a change in diet geared towards weight loss if extra weight is putting stress on your joints.
If you are experiencing severe pain in your joints it’s always a good idea to see your family doctor, but whether or not you have a medical diagnosis there are several practical things you can do to support joint health.
We all know that a healthy diet plays a huge role in our overall feeling of well being, but did you know that the food you eat directly impacts your joints? An anti-inflammatory diet can go a long way to soothing inflamed joints and muscles and it could promote bone health as well!
Despite the popular misconception, not all fats are bad for you. Fish are a great source of Omega-3 fatty acids which work to reduce inflammation in muscles and cartilage. These essential fats are heart healthy as well. You can also find Omega-3s in foods like flaxseed, walnuts, and eggs.
The potassium found in green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale can help to reduce inflammation and keep your muscles and nerves functioning at their best. You can also look for bananas, prunes, dates and sweet potatoes which are all great sources of this important mineral.
Remember what your mother told you and be sure to eat lots of fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Not only will a high fiber diet help you maintain a healthy weight, reducing stress on tired joints, but it will keep you regular, and believe it or not, constipation can irritate back pain.
Stay away from added sugars, processed foods and trans fats (often found in baked goods) which all cause inflammation, contributing to the underlying reasons for a lot of joint pain and surrounding issues.
If you’re carrying some extra weight, your joints will thank you for dropping a few pounds. The heavier you are, the harder weight-bearing joints like your knees, hips and lower back all have to work to keep you moving. It stands to reason that lightening their load could help those suffering from joint pain. Not only can it help the pain you might be feeling at the moment, but shedding weight could help you avoid developing more severe problems in the future.
You don’t have to move mountains either. Most experts agree that losing between 5-10 percent of your body weight could have a huge impact on painful symptoms. You can also set yourself up for success by joining an online weight loss community. According to a recent study (3) from the University of California, Irvine, “Sharing the triumphs and tribulations of your weight loss journey...plays an important role in achieving success.”
If you are one of the estimated 25-35% (4) of people leading a sedentary lifestyle, you and your joints could benefit from more exercise. Our bodies are made to move, and lack of exercise can cause postural problems and create tension in some areas, creating added stress on joints and bones. Regular exercise stretches joints and muscles, increases circulation and it can also reduce pain. Joints are also surrounded by muscle, so if you can create a firm foundation by strengthening your joints support system, you may be able to avoid joint injuries before they happen.
If you are experiencing joint pain it’s very important that you chose the right, low impact exercises that don’t add additional pressure to already stressed joints. Avoid running, skipping and any sports that require jumping or intense physical impact with another object or person. Instead, try swimming, cycling and walking. You don’t have to become an all-star athlete overnight. Just 30 minutes (5) of moderate exercise each day not only benefits stiff joints but it may also improve heart health, reduce stress and improve your memory.
As always, if you’re experiencing pain of any kind, we recommend visiting your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.
While traditional painkillers are effective and sometimes necessary to manage joint pain, there are plenty of natural options to explore as well.
Try taking a bath in Epsom salt which you should be able to pick up in any convenience or health food store for just a few dollars. Because Epsom salts are easily absorbed into the skin they provide fast relief, reducing muscle spasms and soothing inflammation. Add about 2 cups to a hot bath and soak for a minimum of 30 minutes.
Heat and cold therapy can also help to reduce inflammation and swelling and relieve pain in aching joints. Pick up a therapeutic hot pack, and make your own cold pack by simply putting a few ice cubes into a tea towel or a clean sock. Apply the hot pack for roughly 10 minutes and then alternate with the cold to help manage on the spot joint stiffness and inflammation.
There are many different conditions that can cause joint pain so it’s important to visit your doctor for a diagnosis if you’re experiencing long-term pain or discomfort. Your doctor can rule out serious conditions that could potentially worsen over time, and they can also give you a realistic idea of what the root causes of your pain could be and help you determine the best course of long-term treatment. If you are experiencing pain as the result of an injury, be sure to rest, and let your body determine the speed of your recovery. If you experience pain when exercising it’s best to rest and resume when the pain subsides.
Remember this 5 step natural plan to ease joint pain and try changing up your diet to help relieve inflammation from the inside out.
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
(1) https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/guide/joint-pain#1
(3) https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/11/171128113520.htm
(4) http://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2009/08/physical-inactivity.aspx
(5) https://www.genesisfitness.com.au/blog/9-benefits-30-mins-exercise-day
]]>Remember the days when it seemed like you could eat an entire pizza by yourself, down a few gallons of soda, lay on the couch and watch the entirety of Star Wars without getting off the couch for about 3 days, and STILL have abs? Well, bad news is, that might not be the case anymore, but the good news is, youth doesn’t have a monopoly on fitness. Working out and eating smarter can help you gain and/or maintain your muscle and physique at any age, with just a little more effort than it might’ve taken when you were a teenager.
Human Growth Hormone (HGH) and Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1) are important components in developing and preserving muscle by transporting glucose and amino acids to muscles while stimulating DNA. Unfortunately, as we age, an HGH & IGF-1 deficiency occurs from the pituitary gland, releasing less of both. This can mean lower performance, longer, slower recovery times, and a slower metabolism. However, Pure Vitality Deer Velvet Spray is here to help! The IGF-1 provided in the spray helps to increase strength and immunity, improve heart function, support healthy blood sugar levels, support healthy weight management by stimulating the metabolism, and help to repair damaged nerves, thereby decreasing recovery time. This spray has got you covered!
A great way to find out if you’re getting enough protein is the body weight equation (1). Take your body weight, divide it in half, and subtract 10. If you’re 150 lbs, divide that in half to get 75, then subtract 10 to get 65, and that is your number for how much protein you should be working into your diet throughout the course of the day. Additionally, the older you get, the higher quality the protein should be that you ingest in order to help slow muscle deterioration. This can look like grass-fed, organic, free-range, non-GMO meat, fish and eggs. If you’re a vegetarian, legumes and leafy greens are a great source of protein in addition to plant-based proteins on the market such as pea protein.
Deer Antler Velvet use dates back centuries in China and has become popular in recent years by way of New Zealand in treating and preventing a variety of ailments. It contains a rich biochemical makeup that contains a spectrum of growth factors, saturated fatty acids, minerals, amino acids and more. Deer Antler Velvet can help to improve metabolism, muscle mass, strength, recovery time, immune function, endurance, quality of sleep, mental alertness while balancing mood and hormones. Long story short, it has one of the most extensive concentrations of beneficial elements from a single nutritional source. If you’re dealing with an issue, deer velvet will deal with IT!
If you’re used to lifting heavy weights as a part of your workout regimine, you may want to switch things up-or rather lighten things up. Lifting heavy weights may cause you some more discomfort than it used to in the way of aches and pains as you age, but just because you’re not lifting heavy weight, doesn’t mean you can’t build some mean muscle. For example, if you’re doing 3 sets of 10 with a heavyweight, try doing 3 sets of 30 at a lesser weight instead. Switching to lighter weights while doing more reps, will be easier on your joints and keep you strong, and most importantly, injury-free.
Stretching may not seem directly related to strength training and building muscle, but pulling a muscle definitely is. Taking the time to properly stretch, even if you don’t plan to work out on a given day, will help you feel more limber going into the day and help prevent injury from exercise, or doing any everyday activity.
There are great days ahead and Pure Vitality wants to be there for all of them to help you achieve your fitness and overall health goals! You can check out a wide range of products in addition to Deer Velvet Spray and Deer Antler Velvet, HERE.
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
(1) https://www.bewell.com/blog/4-ways-to-build-muscle-no-matter-your-age/
]]>Arthritis. It’s not just your grandparent’s ailment anymore. Arthritis does commonly affect the elderly, but can also affect younger adults and children, and can present itself in one’s body through the contraction of Lyme Disease, autoimmune disorders, or age. Managing this widespread rheumatic disease (1) affecting the connective tissues and joints in the body can seem like a daunting task, but with knowledge of arthritis ever expanding, we’ve learned about some fantastic ways to ease your arthritis symptoms naturally through lifestyle and dietary changes. Read on to start trying out some tips today!
Joint Vitality by Pure Vitality is a stellar product currently on the market to help manage joint pain. It doesn’t just treat symptoms of arthritis, but rather works to get to the root of the cause of the disease and treat it more comprehensively with a multi-pronged approach. Joint Vitality focuses on bringing together nutritional support that aids the body in absorbing all of the ingredients in the supplement. Joint Vitality also helps improve circulation, rebuild cartilage, increase free radical control, and soothe pain via anti-inflammatory ingredients like Tumeric and Boswellia Gum extract.
Certain types of fish are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids which may help to reduce inflammation (2) by stopping the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes in their tracks. Salmon, Herring, and Sardines are some great sources of fatty acids. Some plants also contain Omega 3 fatty acids, so, it is possible to also get some of the benefits from omega-3’s through plants, but fish is a better source because they specifically contain DHA & EPA, known as long-chain Omega-3’s that doing the heavy lifting in the anti-inflammatory department. Eating fish even twice a week may have the ability to decrease the pain you may be feeling from arthritis. However, not all fish are great options, and may do more harm than good. Stay away from any types of fish that may contain high levels of mercury and make sure to always look for wild caught, organic fish when you’re shopping. If eating fish isn’t exactly your cup of tea, consider taking a fish oil supplement instead. There are plenty of options on the market now that are flavored with lemon or strawberry to help them go down a little easier.
Speaking of cup of tea, the health benefits of this ancient drink have been touted for centuries. Green Tea (3) contains a powerful antioxidant in the way of EGCG (epigallocatechin-3-gallate) that blocks the production of molecules that cause joint damage and also helps to reduce inflammation. Drinking a few cups of this a day may help ease discomfort from rheumatoid arthritis.
One of the best things about Pure Vitality, is that they always seek to treat a problem from its root instead of masking the symptom. Pure Vitality Muscle & Joint Cream is part of a comprehensive joint health program (see Joint Vitality back at #1). Key ingredients are MSM, an organic sulfur compound that’s naturally derived during the earth’s rain cycle, Wintergreen, Peppermint, Lavender and Hypericum Perforatum oils which help to relieve tension, pain, and enhance circulation. Those are just to a few of their beneficial properties! Additionally, Muscle & Joint cream contains herbs such as Arnica & Calendula, which both help to speed up recovery time. When used together, these ingredients become a power combo to fight arthritis pain, rather than individually sourcing each ingredient and using them on their own with a lesser impact.
We just talked about the benefit of herbs such as Calendula and Arnica in Pure Vitality’s Muscle & Joint Cream, but the buck doesn’t stop there. There are many other herbs that can be helpful in treating various forms of arthritis. Aloe, Eucalyptus, Willow Bark & Thunder God Vine (4) are all herbs that may be used topically to help ease arthritis pain. You should check with your doctor about dosage and sourcing specifically for Willow Bark & Thunder God Vine as they are particularly strong and may not be suitable for long-term usage, and may have adverse effects if they are/are not derived from a specific part of the plant.
Thermotherapy is the alternation of hot and cold therapies to reduce joint swelling and pain. This form of treatment doesn’t provide long-term benefits but rather immediate relief for those times you can’t wait for oral treatments to kick in. You should treat the inflamed area with heat initially to help reduce muscle tension, which will improve your range of motion and help get your muscles limber for the day, so trying gentle heat in the morning may be a good place to start with this therapy. Heating pads, hot water bottles, paraffin wax bath, a heated blanket or even warming your clothes in the dryer before getting dressed, are all gentle ways of applying heat to inflamed areas. Next, you should apply a cold treatment. Cold packs, frozen foods, gel packs shaped to specific body parts, cool bath (not cold), and sprays such as Cryoderm and Biofreeze will do the trick. When using hot or cold therapy, be sure to keep an eye on your skin to monitor for any burning or freezing. You don’t want the heat source to be too hot or the cold source to be too cold and you don’t want to apply some of these items directly to your skin. Wrap cold packs and hot water bottles with a towel before applying them to the affected area. Think warm vs. cool rather than hot vs. cold.
Again, anything with Omega-3 fatty acids is a winner in the dietary book when it comes to arthritis. To expand on this a bit more, long chain omega 3’s, such as those found in fish are more beneficial than short chain omega-3’s, such as flax seeds and walnuts, because the body needs to convert the short chain omegas into long-chain omegas, so getting right to the point if you will, is a more effective option. Modern diets can have an overabundance of Omega 6 fatty acids and sometimes the imbalance between the Omega 6 and 3’s is enough to cause inflammation (5). Olive oil is a great Omega-6 reducer and taking it in spoonfuls or cooking with it at an appropriate temperature as to not cook out the beneficial elements, can be helpful in treating arthritis. Colorful fruits and vegetables are another way to treat arthritis as they are rich in antioxidants such as flavonoids and carotenoids. Bell peppers, broccoli, mango, oranges and strawberries are great options as they are also rich in Vitamin C, another powerful antioxidant.
Lay off the sugar, first and foremost. It only provides empty calories and increases your blood sugar levels which can negatively affect inflammation. Too much red meat and dairy can also cause inflammation and should be avoided due to a bacteria called MAP (6) that is often found in both that can trigger rheumatoid arthritis. Cutting back on your sodium intake can also help to improve arthritis symptoms. People suffering from arthritis, high blood pressure, kidney disease and more should limit their intake to 1,500 mg/day (7) or half a teaspoon. For perspective, the average American takes in about 3,400 mg of sodium a day. Making sure you read the labels of the food you buy, using spice instead of salt, and eating out less are some simple ways to be more in control of your sodium intake. People who have arthritis, may be more prone to heart disease, so staying away from sodium, as well as Saturated and trans fats that raise cholesterol is a good move as well. A safe number is no more than 20g of saturated fat a day in a 2,000 calorie diet (8), and you should try not to consume any trans fats as they are mostly found in manufactured food and shouldn’t ideally be consumed anyway.
It may seem impossible and like one of the last things you want to do when you’re experiencing a flare up, but exercising and arthritis go hand in hand. If you’re new to exercising, starting off with some easy, low-intensity moves are best. Therapeutic exercises, or those recommended by your doctor, are a great place to start in terms of increasing physical activity, especially if you haven’t been active in a while and are experiencing extreme stiffness and lack of mobility in a specific area. Low-intensity recreational exercises can range from walking, to leisurely bike riding, cross-country skiing and jogging. Recreational exercises done in conjunction with therapeutic exercises can yield very positive results. Exercising at a competitive or elite level is generally not recommended, as the intensity that is required with those types of sports can contribute to inflammation and make arthritis symptoms worse.
This ancient form of traditional Chinese medicine has been used to treat a variety of ailments for centuries. Acupuncture uses very fine needles to stimulate energy along meridians, or pathways in your body, in hopes of correcting imbalances of energy in your chi (9), or your life-giving energy. Studies (10) have shown that it can lower levels of chemicals in your body that are linked to inflammation and that the difference in symptoms between having acupuncture and not having acupuncture treatments was large; however that the difference between simulated and actual acupuncture was small. Either way, it’s worth a try!
Working to maintain a positive attitude and creating a network of support around you are also integral parts of treating arthritis, and really, any health, emotional, and physiological problems. Setting realistic goals for yourself is very important and a great place to start when it comes to treatment, as it can be overwhelming to not hit physical benchmarks we set for ourselves when working to live with or cure a disease such as arthritis (think walking 1 mile, versus running 5 miles after one week of exercise). Setting small, realistic goals will help you achieve bigger ones and help keep you in a positive frame of mind.
Fortunately, there are many options at your disposal when it comes to treating different forms of arthritis naturally; from lifestyle changes, to supplements, to diet and exercise. Pure Vitality wants to see you live your most vibrant life and offers a wide range of additional supplements to Joint Vitality and Muscle & Joint Cream; all of which can be found HERE.
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
(1) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rheumatism
(2) http://blog.arthritis.org/rheumatoid-arthritis/eating-fish-may-relieve-ra/
(3) http://blog.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/health-benefits-of-tea/
(4) https://www.healthline.com/health/osteoarthritis/herbs-arthritis-pain#thunder-god-vine
(5) https://www.healthyandnaturalworld.com/arthritis-foods-to-eat-and-foods-to-avoid/
]]>We’ve all done it: had that extra slice of cake at a birthday party, plowed through a bag of chips and salsa in one sitting, finished a meal at a restaurant after we were already full but couldn’t get over paying for something we hadn’t eaten. Overeating happens to even the most disciplined health nut, but there are ways to keep ourselves from letting it happen on a regular basis. Get a pen and paper, and get ready to take notes, (or just bookmark this page on your computer)!
My Italian grandmother and mother show love with food, so when your plate hasn’t been finished, it’s like you’ve broken their heart into a million little pieces. Food and love are synonymous in many cultures, and when you come from this kind of upbringing, it can be difficult to set healthy portion parameters for yourself. Something to try, at least when eating out, is to ask for a To-Go container when your meal arrives. Granted, this isn’t an appropriate move for every dining experience, but read the room and proceed when it feels right. Cut that hamburger in half and put it into the box along with half of whatever your side is and voila! Not only did you give yourself a healthy portion of food at dinner, you now have “free” lunch tomorrow!
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day because it sets you up for success or failure in your dietary endeavors for the rest of the day. If you miss breakfast, you tend to eat more food later in the day, when your body doesn’t actually need as much fuel or as much food to feel full. A recent study (1) of 3,000 people showed that the majority of people who lost an average of 70 lbs were able to keep it off over 6 years when they ate breakfast regularly. Only 4% were able to keep the weight off without eating breakfast.
If you’re wanting to lose weight, but get hungry and end up eating filler foods for energy, a supplement could be a great addition to your diet. Pure Vitality is known for using top of the line, quality ingredients in their products and stay away from fillers and dangerous components found in other weight loss and dietary products. Not only is Slim Vitality great if you’re looking to lose weight by featuring ingredients such as Garcinia Cambogia, which promotes weight loss, it also helps your body process food more efficiently so you get the most out of your meals and maintain energy levels. Bioperine has the ability to increase bioavailability of nutritional compounds while Green Tea Extract provides rich vitamins and minerals to your body.
Stress triggers overeating like no other. Try to be mindful of any stressful triggers in your life and find ways to manage them or weed them out altogether. Practicing meditation, going for a walk, talking with a friend, or good old therapy can do the trick!
If you know you have a crazy day ahead of you, try to plan out your meals. Whether that means making food at home so you know exactly what you’re consuming, or planning your work day around being able to have an extra 10 minutes to eat at the delicious vegetarian restaurant down the street from work instead of the fast food joint next door, eating mindfully so you can get the nutrients you need will aid in preventing overeating.
Put some whole food energy bars in your desk, stay hydrated, and give yourself time to realize if you are still, in fact, hungry after you’ve had a fair share of your meal, and you will be on your way to being more present in your dietary habits. Sometimes you need that pint of ice cream, but hopefully these tips will keep your overeating at bay and help you give a balanced, healthy and mindful relationship with food. Pure Vitality offers lots of great supplements to help you on your dietary journey whether it’s weight loss, nutrient deficiency, lack of energy or any myriad of health concerns. Head on over to their website for a list of products that could help you live your best life!
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
Reference:
]]>Is the physical desire for your partner lackluster in comparison to your emotional feelings for them? Don’t strap on your scuba tank and go diving into the deep dark corners of your relationship just yet. Excitement in the lovemaking department can start to lessen as testosterone levels decrease as early as a man’s late 20’s (1), after peak testosterone production in the late teens and early 20’s. This is a natural part of aging, but should be monitored as a decrease in testosterone levels can be indicative of other health issues. Before you get worried, there are lots of other less scary things to explore first to figure out why you’re lacking the fire you once had in your relationship’s early days. Below we’ll give some helpful pointers for restoring your libido and bringing some excitement back into your life.
Finding out if you have low levels of testosterone is a great first step in getting to the root of why you may have low libido. Health Test Express makes an at-home testosterone kit (2), to help you determine what your testosterone levels are, comparatively to the normal male’s. All of their tests are CLIA certified (3), results are delivered securely online, and doctors are available for any questions you may have. A more discreet, and convenient alternative to going to your doctor’s office; and who doesn’t appreciate that?
Supplements can be a great addition to your daily routine when it comes to restoring desire. Vigor Vitality for Him by Pure Vitality, takes a multi-point approach to treating low sex drive. Ingredients such as Fenugreek influence arousal, energy and stamina, while Cnidium Monnieri uses Osthole, a bioactive that affects spongy tissue and blood vessels helping to treat erectile dysfunction. Additionally, Agmatine Sulfate helps to potentially increase the luteinizing hormone, which plays a vital role in male testosterone production. Instead of taking something synthetic, why not treat the root cause and help your body create everything it needs on its own?
Are you stressed? Depressed? Dealing with problems at work? All of these things can contribute to low libido. Do something that makes you feel happy and relaxed. Go for a walk with your dog, go for a hike, see a movie with friends (or alone, whichever you prefer-I enjoy the latter equally to the former), get a massage, whatever helps you decompress. Then, check back in and see if you’re still feeling lackluster. Chances are, you’ll already start to feel better.
Hypertension, Diabetes, thyroid disorders, and alcoholism can all be contributing factors to low levels of testosterone. Hypertension and diabetes can decrease blood flow throughout the body, thereby decreasing blood flow to your genitals. An underperforming thyroid can affect your pituitary gland, in turn affecting hormone production. Alcohol can increase desire, but negatively impact performance, doing a number more so on your head than your actual ability. But, as we talked about previously in number 3, your head plays just as important a role as the rest of your body when it comes to arousal and performance.
Sexual health is an important part of your overall health and should get the same attention as any other health concern. Honestly evaluating underlying causes whether they be emotional, mental or physical, and knowing your options are the first steps in determining how to treat libido and testosterone issues. Again, it’s completely natural for libido to decrease with age, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop enjoying yourself! For more helpful supplements in addition to Vigor Vitality for Him, stop by Pure Vitality’s site and explore their natural range of products addressing a wide range of health needs.
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
(1) https://www.livestrong.com/article/228100-when-does-your-testosterone-level-start-to-drop/
]]>Over the course of a normal day, it’s natural for your personal energy levels to fluctuate. You might find yourself losing focus at around 4 or 5pm, and feeling more sluggish on your commute home after particularly stressful day at the office. However, if you are hitting the snooze button every morning, or finding it hard to focus on your to-do list by lunchtime, you might be suffering from fatigue.
If this sounds like you, you are certainly not alone. The pace of modern life is non-stop. Most jobs no longer end when the whistle blows at 5pm, and much of the population is expected to be on call for work, friends or family for up to 24 hours each day. Over 6 million Americans see doctors each year complaining of chronic fatigue and 1 in 5 New Zealanders say they feel tired most of the time.
If you’re feeling burned out and run down don’t worry! We’ve put together 4 helpful tips to keep you alert and active all day long, including Pure Vitality Enduro Vitality and Deer Antler Velvet which have been formulated by experts in the field to keep your brain and body active and alert till bedtime.
While exercise may be the last thing you feel like doing when you’re tired, according to a California State University study (1), it could make all the difference. The best part? You don’t have to be an athlete or a gym rat to feel the benefits of regular exercise for fatigue. A simple 10-minute walk around the block could increase your energy levels for up to two whole hours. So, while we recommend at least 30 minutes of regular exercise each day for optimal fitness, it’s okay to start small. Try taking a stroll around the block when you’re feeling sluggish. The fresh air will do you good.
Sure, that morning coffee and donut might give you a temporary burst of enthusiasm, but what happens when the caffeine and sugar wear off at lunchtime and your glucose levels begin to crash? Instead of relying on short-term energy boosters like caffeine and sugar, look at your overall diet to help fix fatigue. Diets high in sugar and simple carbohydrates will cause those peaks and crashes in your blood glucose levels that play havoc with your body and leave you feeling wiped in the long run. Avoid processed foods and concentrate instead on low-glycemic carbohydrates that your body takes longer to breakdown. Look for whole grains, nuts, brown rice and fiber-rich vegetables and say no to coffee and soda, try caffeine free tea instead and drink plenty of water.
Natural supplements are a great way to support a healthy diet, and research suggests that Pure Vitality Enduro Vitality and Deer Antler Velvet could help you to stay alert, energetic, and focused for longer. Enduro Vitality contains a proprietary blend of ginseng, ginger, maca root and gingko biloba as well as 10 mgs of zinc to help your body properly absorb all the nutrients it needs. New research also suggests that Deer Antler Velvet, which has been used for over 20 centuries in Chinese medicine, could help strengthen neurological function and boost metabolism giving you the extra vigor you need to make it through those long working days.
Ever notice that you have more energy in the summer than in the winter? That’s because sunshine is a natural energy booster! Studies (2) suggest that without exposure to sunshine your body will not produce optimal levels of the sleep hormone melatonin, leaving you sluggish and tired and putting your sleep cycle in jeopardy. The best time to soak up those rays is between 10am and 2pm, so put on your sunscreen and take your lunch outside.
It may sound obvious, but if you’re feeling tired, you just can’t beat a good night’s sleep. In today’s modern world catching those quality z’s can be harder than you might think, so if you’re having trouble sleeping, or waking up feeling sluggish on a regular basis, practicing good sleep hygiene can help set you up for success. Be sure you’re going to bed at the same time every night and give yourself a routine to follow. Once your body adjusts to a reliable schedule, your circadian rhythm will click into place and you should start feeling drowsy at bedtime. Make your bedroom a tech-free zone and instead of stimulating your brain with the light from a TV or laptop, make yourself a cup of calming chamomile tea and crack open a good book.
If you’re constantly feeling low on energy, remember to get plenty of gentle exercise, eat a healthy diet, enjoy the sunshine and set yourself up for success with a good sleep hygiene routine. Try Pure Vitality supplements Enduro Vitality and Deer Antler Velvet to support a healthy diet and lifestyle and keep you fresh, focused and full of vim and vigor all day long.
Pure Vitality a natural supplement company based in an isolated village nestled against the snow-capped Southern Alps of New Zealand. We research health conditions thoroughly to discover the underlying root causes, find the most effective natural remedies, target the root causes rather than use a Band-Aid approach, use a multi-prong approach to fix the root causes from many directions and use high potency ingredients at scientifically supported amounts.
References:
(1) https://www.webmd.com/women/features/10-energy-boosters#2
(2) https://lifespa.com/how-sun-exposure-affects-sleep-and-melatonin-production/
https://www.wikihow.com/Maintain-Your-Energy-Throughout-the-Day
https://breakingmuscle.com/fitness/8-natural-ways-to-fuel-your-energy-level-through-the-day
https://www.health.harvard.edu/energy-and-fatigue/9-tips-to-boost-your-energy-naturally
https://www.lifehack.org/articles/productivity/7-steps-maintain-high-energy-level.html
https://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20653367,00.html#don-t-delay-the-day-0
https://draxe.com/exhausted-ways-to-boost-energy-levels/
https://draxe.com/zinc-benefits/
https://www.healthmarkets.com/resources/wellness/getting-to-the-bottom-of-low-energy/
https://askdrnandi.com/low-energy/
https://www.healthnavigator.org.nz/health-a-z/t/tiredness-fatigue/
https://www.eatright.org/food/nutrition/healthy-eating/eating-to-boost-energy
https://www.mirror.co.uk/lifestyle/dieting/15-reasons-sun-good-you-623393
]]>